TEXTUAL CONFIDENCE
‘This is the Scripture in which there is no doubt, containing guidance for those mindful of God’ [2:2].
The Quran (2:2) introduces itself as both a statement and a challenge to humanity: herein, there is no doubt. The style and confidence in the Arabic text are otherworldly, and none other has ever been bold enough to employ such a literary device in their introduction.
The challenge continues two chapters later: ‘Will they (humanity) not think about this Quran? If it had been from anyone other than God, they would have found much inconsistency in it’ [4:82].
The Quran does not contradict itself but testifies using clear proof of its authenticity.
Allah boldly invites scrutiny because it is a healthy attitude for arriving at the truth. It is anti-reason when forced to believe in something without being encouraged to fact-check. The Quran repeatedly calls us to use our reason and to seek proof to determine truth: “Is there a deity with Allah? Say, ‘Produce your proof if you should be truthful'” [27:64].
To use scrutiny, reason, and seek evidence is the way of the Quran and the path to true faith.
‘And indeed, it is a Book of exalted power’ [41:41].
SACRED MOONS
We have entered the moon of Rajab, and before long, Sha’ban’s will rise, followed by Ramadan’s blessed crescent.
At the sight of the new moon, the Prophet (s) used to supplicate: ‘O Allah! Let this new moon shine on us with security, faith, peace, and contentment. (Let it shine on us) with agreement and (Your) satisfaction. My Lord and your Lord is Allah, O new moon of guidance and goodness’ [Tirmidhiy].
It’s a time for rehearsal. If we use Rajab and Sha’ban well, we will meet Ramadan’s new moon prepared and gain an excellent opportunity to maximise the blessings of the holy month.
Gluttony and consumption are the rage of our age, and St. Thomas Aquinas philosophises that this state causes us to operate as though reason is asleep at the helm.
As Muslims, we are fortunate to be blessed with sacred moons that can disabuse us of this vice and return us to satiety in God.
Faith, as with everything else, is in constant flux. Only Allah is unchanging.
To prevent relapse, one must develop a regular work ethic, moderation, and pray for istiqama (steadfastness): ‘Say, ‘Our Lord is Allah,’ and then remain steadfast’ [41:30].
You can add a habit tracker to measure your progress. A tracker on a wall also serves as an accountability tool, reminding you to attend to your goals and motivating you as each completed strike triggers the next activity and creates a series of wins.
Until next week, InshaAllah
Zaahied Sallie
Author of The Beloved Prophet – An Illustrated Biography in Rhyme
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