Philosophy of Life

The beauty of Islamic Shari’at is that everyday necessities are woven into the realm of religion – our commitments in this world are not separated from our religious responsibilities. This philosophy is reflected in Amirul Mumineen’s kalaam (quoted above), “Whosoever sets out to seek a halaal livelihood, is like one who fights in the path of God.”

“The Blind Man and the Lame” from the hikayat (translated by Dr Shatha Almutawa) presented with illustrations by Tahera Vajihi. 

In many of his sayings, Amirul Mumineen SA emphasizes the Hereafter by highlighting the transience and futility of this world. For example, in one instance he likens this world to a snake that is smooth to touch but whose poison is fatal. In the context of the strong attraction humans instinctively have to the instant gratification of this world, such strong imagery is necessary.

We are pleased to present this fascinating paper by Yaqutato Da'watil Haqq Shehzadi Dr. Bazat Tahera Baisaheba that explores one of the primary themes of Amirul Mumineen’s SA orations (khutbahs): the contemplations on this world and the Hereafter.

The Hikaayat Foxes and the Wolf from the Epistle on the Causes for the Different Languages, vol. 3, pp. 170-171 (From Rasa'il Ikhwanus Safa).

After Ibrahim was saved, Jibra’eel asked Ibrahim, “I understand that when I offered to help you may have refused, but you did not ask for Allah’s aid?” Ibrahim Nabi explained, “I did not see fit to ask Allah Ta’ala to save me while it may have been in Allah’s will and wisdom that I die.”

It is also Allah Ta’ala’s grace that He has promised, “if you are thankful, then assuredly I shall give you more” (Surat Ibrahim: 7).

Eisa Nabi AS met Yahya Nabi. Eisa Nabi smiled at Yahya Nabi, but Yahya Nabi frowned in response and said, “O Spirit of Allah, you laugh as though you have no fear of Allah’s punishment!” Eisa Nabi replied “O Nabi of Allah, you frown as though you have no hope in Allah’s rehmat and mercy!” Allah Ta’ala then revealed to both Yahya Nabi and Eisa Nabi: “The one I love most is the one who smiles most”

Our Imams have said that one must always offer shukur and thanks to Allah Ta’ala. They add that shukur and thanks is also due and waajib for the one at whose hands ne’mat was received.

Such is the case of the sons of the dunya who come to it ignorant. They remain in it confused and forced, denying the matter of the last abode. They leave it as God says, glorified is His praise: “He who is blind in it will be blind in the afterlife and even more lost.”