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Growing up, my dad always told us that "hate" is a strong word. We used the line in a joking manner, but as I entered adulthood, I began to grasp both the power and the fragility of using it as a means of expression. We often throw it around as if it’s a simple, valid way to communicate, yet in reality, there is no justification for it. I began to notice that when we allow it to exist freely in our lives, we unknowingly give it space to grow. The more we reinforce it, the more we become responsible for carrying its weight—a burden that ultimately hinders our ability to find peace.The cruelest thing about this sensitive topic is not just its presence but how we deceive ourselves into justifying it. We wield it in ways that distort its true nature, using it as a weapon rather than seeking a solution. Instead of resolving conflict, we fuel it. Instead of finding clarity, we cloud our judgment. We tell ourselves that our hate is warranted, but in doing so, we block the path to overcoming it.When we nurture or validate our negative actions, we're actually rejecting peace. Before we throw anything away, we must first validate the reasoning behind it. Just as we are taught to hate the sin but not the sinner, we must separate our emotions from the people and situations that trigger them. More importantly, we must stop ourselves from feeling responsible for proving an accusation if we lack the accountability to participate in the solution.The Framework of FaithAs Muslims, our foundation is built upon the six articles of faith, which serve as the guiding principles that shape our sincerity in upholding the five pillars of Islam. Each article of faith affirms the sole proprietor of believing in Allah alone, directing us in our journey through life with the ultimate goal of peace—both within ourselves and in our interactions with others.The prefrontal cortex, the part of our brain responsible for reasoning and emotional regulation, it plays a crucial role in shaping our responses. If we begin to experience negative emotions such as having malice intent or feel jealousy, then we risk the disruption of the balance necessary for learning and understanding to mature. This imbalance leads to impulsive and self-absorbed behaviors that hinder the brain’s natural development. Instead of responding with thoughtfulness, a person consumed by negativity reacts in a way that centers around themselves, failing to recognize the true significance of their participation and response. When someone holds onto resentment, it gradually fosters narcissistic tendencies. This happens because they become fixated on surface-level perceptions, looking for validation and familiarity–overlooking the deeper understanding that comes from genuine connection and reflection. They start to believe that what they see is all there is, dismissing the depth of experiences and emotions that bring true insight into life. Resorting to the need to control outcomes that serve their needs.When we approach the Quran with an open heart, we not only absorb its wisdom, but we also learn how to safeguard our hearts from closing. If we truly pay attention, we will recognize that the Quran serves as a defense against the narcissistic tendencies that emerge when our intentions counteract the peace we're inherently fighting for. It reminds us that peace is not just an abstract ideal but a lived instruction—one that, if ignored, leaves us struggling to control the outcomes of our actions. The Quran’s presence in our lives is not simply because it is owned; it exists to remind us of the soul Allah has entrusted to us in this life. Its guidance is not just a set of laws but a roadmap to returning our soul to Him in the purest form possible when the inevitable moment of our departure arrives. By following its wisdom, we are not just reading—we are actively preparing our hearts, our character, and our deeds for the ultimate reunion with our Creator. To Decide or Knot In today’s world, our understanding of livelihood is often distorted. We are bombarded with distractions, conditioned expectations, and misleading narratives that shape what we perceive as "right." These influences can push us into a survival mode where we make decisions reactively, rather than reflectively. In this state, our vision is clouded. We become fixated on what the surface presents rather than what is truly unfolding beneath it.Decisions are an essential part of life. It shapes our paths, influences our relationships, and determines the direction of our spiritual and personal growth. While there is often pressure to always make the “right” decision, the real challenge is not perfection—it is setting better intentions. Intentions that align with truth, wisdom, and sincerity rather than fear, pressure, or fleeting emotions.Modern decisions are filled with documentation, reports, and long interpretations—all seemingly designed to guide us toward an answer. But the real task is not just in reading and processing information; it is in questioning why this information is presented in the first place. Why is it framed in a particular way? Why are certain details inconsistent, while others remain perfectly aligned? What is the hidden intention behind the way the information is structured?The truth is, decisions should never be made solely based on what the eye perceives. Looks can be deceiving. That is why justice is an essential part of true decision-making—because it requires us to go beyond face value and seek what is fair, balanced, and rooted in truth. It calls on us to use the depth of our knowledge to uncover the probable cause of matters, reminding us that true understanding requires time and effort—surface-level judgment is never enough.Ultimately, allowing any negative tendency to dictate our actions distorts our perception of reality and weakens our ability to think critically in order to regulate emotions. In the context of hate, it becomes an invisible force urging us to misjudge, while all of our life resources and the core of our soul inherently seek peace. When we step back, we realize that what we are truly searching for is understanding. That understanding is what straightens our overall well-being. And in that understanding, we create space for growth, resolution, and ultimately, peace.It is an act of faith—about sincerely seeking clarity and trusting that Allah, the Best of Planners, will grant us the ability to see beyond what is presented—to what truly matters."Allah puts forth a similitude: a (slave) man belonging to many partners (like those who worship others along with Allah) disputing with one another, and a (slave) man belonging entirely to one master, (like those who worship Allah Alone). Are those two equal in comparison? All the praises and thanks be to Allah! But most of them know not." 39:29"And indeed We have put forth for men, in this Quran every kind of similitude in order that they may remember.""Verily, We have sent down to you (O Muhammad SAW) the Book (this Quran) for mankind in truth. So whosoever accepts the guidance, it is only for his ownself, and whosoever goes astray, he goes astray only for his (own) loss. And you (O Muhammad SAW) are not a Wakil (trustee or disposer of affairs, or keeper) over them.""So, the evil results of that which they earned overtook them. And those who did wrong of these [people to whom you (Muhammad SAW) have been sent], will also be overtaken by the evil results (torment) for that which they earned, and they will never be able to escape." "Do they not know that Allah enlarges the provision for whom He wills, and straitens it (for whom He wills). Verily, in this are signs for the folk who believe!" "And Allah will deliver those who are the Muttaqun (pious - see V.2:2) to their places of success (Paradise). Evil shall touch them not, nor shall they grieve." 39:61

Beyond the Illusion

Life is a journey of transformation, beginning in dependence and gradually shifting toward independence. From our earliest moments, we are shaped by the teachings, expectations, and experiences that define our sense of self and purpose. Just as we learn how to navigate the world, we are also introduced to faith—taught the morals and values that serve as the foundation of belief. The goal is not simply to know, but to embody righteousness, to guard ourselves from corruption, and to remain true to our original fitrah, despite the countless ways the world seeks to pull us away.Belief, in its broadest sense, is a shared human experience. Every soul holds onto something—whether it be hope, a higher purpose, or a sense of meaning. But belief in Allah (SWT) is an entirely different depth of conviction. It is the essence of faith itself, the core challenge of existence, and the ultimate test of sincerity. Unlike worldly achievements that can be planned and completed, faith is not an item to check off a list. It is an ongoing, reciprocal bond, cultivated through action, reflection, and unwavering trust.To believe in Allah is to acknowledge His presence beyond human comprehension, to trust that His wisdom surpasses our expectations, and to accept that His grace reaches whom He wills. True faith requires consistency—a commitment to integrity and a willingness to embody the character of one who submits to Him. It is not about seeking perfection, but about seeking Him—again and again—in all that we do.As life unfolds, it reflects what we hold within—our knowledge, aspirations, and sincerity. Some things require patience, while others demand boldness. Striking the balance means knowing when to embrace, when to let go, and when to trust in divine timing.True equality is found in tawhid—the oneness of Allah. When we internalize this reality, we understand that our focus should not be on comparison, but on refining our own intentions and actions. We must recognize our limits, respect our boundaries, and evaluate ourselves not by fleeting worldly measures, but by what we are sincerely offering to Allah.Tawhid is not about developing a rigid, one-track mind, but about continuously aligning our thoughts with the balance it provides. It teaches us to relinquish the illusion of control, to temper our impulses, and to avoid excess. At its core, tawhid calls us to live independently while remaining fully submitted to the laws of the Quran. It is the fairest path to unity—one where independence is shared with respect, understanding, and without competitive judgment or egotistical comparison."And when they are called to Allah (i.e. His Words, the Quran) and His Messenger (SAW), to judge between them, lo! a party of them refuse (to come) and turn away.""But if the right is with them, they come to him willingly with submission."Allah’s guidance through tawhid is not a burden, but a key to ease—offering clarity, balance, and peace even in life’s greatest trials. Those who embrace it will find that, in surrendering to Him, they gain everything their hearts truly seek.Ultimately, our lives are a story, a script authored by Allah, unfolding moment by moment. One day, we will see it played back—witnessing the choices we made and the intentions we carried. The question is: what kind of character will we have chosen to embody in the narrative of our own lives?&nbsp;"Allah has promised those among you who believe, and do righteous good deeds, that He will certainly grant them succession to (the present rulers) in the earth, as He granted it to those before them, and that He will grant them the authority to practise their religion, that which He has chosen for them (i.e. Islam). And He will surely give them in exchange a safe security after their fear (provided) they (believers) worship Me and do not associate anything (in worship) with Me. But whoever disbelieved after this, they are the Fasiqun (rebellious, disobedient to Allah).""Verily! This (Verses of the Quran) is an admonition, so whosoever wills, let him take a Path to his Lord (Allah).But you cannot will, unless Allah wills. Verily, Allah is Ever All-Knowing, All-Wise.He will admit to His Mercy whom He will and as for the Zalimun, (polytheists, wrong-doers, etc.) He has prepared a painful torment."Embracing the concept of Tawhid—the oneness of Allah—encourages a mindset and lifestyle that reflects unity, integrity, and sincerity in all aspects of life. Serving Allah in turn, is to serve ourselves. Below are some ways to implement Tawhid everyday:1. Guarding the tongue 2. Focusing on our own actions 3. Practicing empathy and respect 4. Seeking knowledge for Allah's sake 5. Seeking purity in our intentions 6. Living with integrity and patience 7. Maintaining purity of the heartInsha’Allah, we will all bear the fruit of the trees we nurture—the seeds of our intentions, the roots of our sincerity, and the branches of our aspirations—flourishing in the light of Allah’s guidance. May our efforts grow into a shade of mercy, our struggles blossom into wisdom, and our faith stand firm like a tree deeply rooted in His divine will.

Scripted in Sincerity: Surrendered Independence

The journey of life as a Muslim is unique to each soul. No two paths of faith are identical, because no two hearts carry the same weight of experience or understanding. The relationship between a believer and Allah is exclusive, shaped by personal trials, insights, and moments of revelation. This sacred bond has a language of its own—one that speaks to the core of our being and aligns with the depth of our knowledge and sincerity.Allah (SWT) in his infinite wisdom has instilled within each of us the ability to recognize patterns, perceive consequences, and identify the probable causes of events in our lives through the lens of spiritual forensics. This is not merely an intellectual ability but a deeply intuitive and spiritual awareness that allows us to discern truth from falsehood, sincerity from deception, and righteousness from misguidance.When we reflect on our experiences, we find that Allah has given us signs—both external and internal—to analyze and understand the trajectory of our choices. Just as forensic analysis uncovers hidden details, spiritual forensics enables us to trace the root causes of our struggles, uncovering whether they stem from our own actions, neglect, or external influences. This process is not about assigning blame but about refining our awareness, taking responsibility, and realigning with divine guidance.Spiritual forensics is a tool Allah has embedded within us to anticipate consequences, analyze past actions, and strengthen our connection to Him. When we approach life with this awareness, we begin to see that nothing happens randomly. Every hardship, every ease, every unanswered prayer, and every granted blessing carries within it a lesson, a test, or a sign.The more we engage in this process with sincerity and trust in Allah, the more we refine our ability to recognize when we are veering off course. We start to detect warning signs within our own hearts, such as misplaced attachments, ego-driven decisions, or blind reliance on worldly means. Similarly, we learn to recognize confirmations of faith, such as inner peace, clarity, and ease in righteous pursuits.Through spiritual forensics, we embrace the reciprocal relationship between us and Allah—understanding that He guides, but we must take the steps. He reveals, but we must open our eyes. He protects, but we must remain aware. In this way, we become active participants in our faith, using the knowledge and intuition He has gifted us to navigate life with greater certainty and trust in His divine wisdom.The Quran is filled with verses that highlight these indirect ways in which Allah leads us toward the truth, often in ways we may not immediately recognize. Here are some key verses:1. Guidance Through Signs in Creation "We will show them Our signs in the horizons and within themselves until it becomes clear to them that it is the truth." 📖 (Surah Fussilat 41:53)Allah places signs all around us—in the natural world, in our own hearts, and in the events of our lives. These signs gradually unfold, leading sincere seekers toward certainty in faith. 2. Guidance Through Trials and Hardships "And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient. Who, when disaster strikes them, say, ‘Indeed, we belong to Allah, and indeed to Him we will return.’" 📖 (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:155-156)Challenges and difficulties are not just hardships; they serve as a means of spiritual refinement, reminding us to return to Allah and realign our priorities. 3. Guidance Through Inner Realization "And [by] the soul and He who proportioned it, and inspired it [with discernment of] its wickedness and its righteousness. He has succeeded who purifies it, and he has failed who instills it [with corruption]." 📖 (Surah Ash-Shams 91:7-10)Allah has embedded in every soul an internal compass, an awareness of right and wrong. It is upon us to nurture and follow this innate guidance. 4. Guidance Through Life’s Experiences "Perhaps you dislike something while it is good for you, and perhaps you love something while it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you do not know." 📖 (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:216)Sometimes, what seems like a setback or disappointment is actually guiding us toward something far better. Allah's wisdom is beyond our understanding, and He directs us even when we do not realize it. 5. Guidance Through Subtle Divine Plans "And thus We established Yusuf in the land so that We might teach him the interpretation of events. And Allah has full control over His affairs, but most people do not know." 📖 (Surah Yusuf 12:21)Yusuf (AS) was thrown into a well, sold as a slave, and imprisoned—all seemingly negative events. But every step was part of Allah’s greater plan to elevate him. Similarly, in our lives, Allah’s plan is always unfolding, even when we cannot see it immediately. 6. Guidance Through Divine Intervention in Our Hearts "And He found you lost and guided you." 📖 (Surah Ad-Duha 93:7)Sometimes, without even realizing it, Allah brings clarity to our hearts, leading us out of confusion and toward the straight path. 7. Guidance Through the Gradual Unfolding of Truth "And thus does Allah make clear to you His signs, so that you may reflect." 📖 (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:219)Reflection is key to understanding Allah’s guidance. The more we pay attention, the more we recognize the wisdom behind life’s events.

Guidance is Hidden in Plain Sight

The Ripple of Division and the Call to Unity in the QuranLife often presents us with opportunities to nurture unity and understanding, yet far too often, we find ourselves caught in actions that cause division. These divisions—whether within families, communities, or even within our own hearts—are barely justified. The Quran warns against such unnecessary rifts and provides timeless guidance to safeguard our relationships and spiritual well-being.The story of Prophet Yusuf (AS) in Surah Yusuf offers a profound example of how division, driven by jealousy and unchecked emotions, can lead to harm. His brothers, consumed by envy, plotted against him:"Kill Joseph or cast him out to [another] land; the countenance of your father will [then] be only for you, and you will be after that a righteous people." (Quran 12:9) However, one among them sought a less harmful alternative, saying:"Do not kill Joseph but throw him into the bottom of the well; some travelers will pick him up—if you would do [something]." (Quran 12:10) This episode illustrates how divisions within a family, fueled by jealousy and poor judgment, can spiral into devastating consequences. The brothers’ actions reflect the danger of letting emotions and ego overshadow reason and faith. Yet, the story also reminds us of Allah’s mercy and ability to bring forth wisdom and reconciliation from even the darkest moments.The passing of time has a way of dulling the edges of our missteps. What once felt glaringly wrong may begin to seem insignificant or even validated in retrospect. This distance from self-accountability can invite a dangerous sense of entitlement and self-sufficiency, allowing us to grow comfortable in our estrangement from Allah (SWT) and others. As this false comfort takes root, we may unconsciously perpetuate division in our lives, using it as a script to reinforce the beliefs and habits we wish to keep.But the Quran reminds us of the truth we so often forget: community, togetherness, and the betterment of familial and communal bonds are core to a righteous life. In Surah Aal-e-Imran (3:103), Allah commands:"And hold fast, all of you together, to the Rope of Allah (i.e., this Qur'an), and be not divided among yourselves." This verse is not a mere reminder; it is an instruction for living with purpose and harmony. Holding fast to the Rope of Allah requires effort and intention—it is not a passive act but an active choice to strive for unity and leave behind actions that divide us.The Quran further warns against the spiritual and social dangers of division in Surah Al-An’aam (6:159):"Indeed, those who have divided their religion and become sects - you, [O Muhammad], are not [associated] with them in anything." Divisive actions such as judgment, gossip, unchecked jealousy, resentment, dishonesty, secret-keeping, and a lack of boundaries not only harm others but also erode our own souls. These behaviors create a ripple effect of pain and distance—first from Allah, then from others, and ultimately within ourselves.In Surah Al-Anfaal (8:46), Allah (SWT) reminds us of the importance of harmony and patience in overcoming disputes:"And obey Allah and His Messenger, and do not dispute (with one another) lest you lose courage and your strength departs, and be patient." This divine wisdom is not a mere suggestion; it is the framework for living a life that uplifts rather than tears down. Division weakens us. It robs us of courage, diminishes our strength, and isolates us from the blessings of unity.Yet, despite our shortcomings, Allah is Most Merciful and Most Wise. The Quran is filled with guidance, but it does not repeatedly remind us of every instruction—because the responsibility to learn, reflect, and act is ours. Allah has already given us the tools we need. Our task is to do the work, to strive daily to improve, and to recognize that this effort is uniquely tailored to each individual’s journey.Unity is not a "one size fits all" solution; it is an ongoing effort of mindfulness and recognition of The One—Allah (SWT). Though this journey may seem daunting, it is not about achieving perfection but about taking sincere, purposeful steps toward meaningful and evident betterment.When we let go of harmful actions—whether toward others or ourselves—we create space to draw nearer to Allah. The pain we experience from division hurts for a reason. It is a signal from our soul, a reminder that peace is its natural state. The heart reacts to what the soul hears, and repeated exposure to pain and division only deepens the wounds within.The story of Yusuf (AS) beautifully exemplifies these truths. Despite the betrayal and trials he faced, Yusuf (AS) remained steadfast in his faith, demonstrating patience, integrity, and reliance on Allah. His unwavering trust in Allah not only led to his eventual vindication but also brought healing and unity within his family. This serves as a timeless reminder that by holding firmly to the Rope of Allah and dedicating ourselves to an open heart, we open the door to His blessings, embrace healing, and find the peace our hearts were created to seek.Yusuf (AS) was an example of someone who endured his hardship with integrity and compassion. As we reflect on his story, we are reminded that nurturing understanding, balance, and seeking reconciliation are not just acts of righteousness but pathways to draw closer to Allah (SWT). He is Malik al-Mulk, the Sovereign of all dominion, who upholds us and reveals the truth of our matters. He is Al-Wali, the Patron of care and protection, and Al-Majid, the Glorious One, worthy of praise for both the life we live and the afterlife He has promised.In the reflection of the trials faced by Prophet Yusuf (AS) and the way we are tested in our own lives, we are reminded of the continuous nature of self-assessment:The real test lies not in the challenges themselves but in how we respond to them. It is an ongoing assessment of our patience, responsibility, understanding, and accountability. These qualities are continuously evaluated, as we are constantly presented with opportunities to embody them. The test does not end; it evolves and shifts with the circumstances, but the core assessment remains: How do we align ourselves with the truth and how do we respond to it with integrity? This continual process invites us to grow, refine our character, and remain mindful of our responsibility to ourselves, others, and Allah (SWT). Allah, in His wisdom, Allah has embedded the truth deep within every human being, so when it is presented, it resonates with us on a fundamental level. &nbsp;

Unity Over Division

Faith, at its core, is the steadfast belief in Allah—the unseen, the all-knowing, and the all-wise. This belief calls us to trust in His divine wisdom, even when faced with challenges that stir fear or uncertainty within us. These moments, though unsettling, often hold the seeds of growth and virtue. Through His guidance, Allah gently invites us to delay impulsive reactions, reflect deeply, and align ourselves with His greater plan, which is always for our ultimate benefit.For many, faith may feel like an act of surrender, requiring vulnerability and humility. Yet this vulnerability is not a weakness; it is a profound reminder of our shared humanity and reliance on Allah. Life is inherently fleeting, where circumstances can shift in an instant, highlighting a timeless truth: this world is not our final destination. The heart beats with rhythm and strength, yet it is destined to rest; the body carries us, but it is only a temporary vessel. Death, though inevitable, shapes life’s meaning, urging us to prepare for what lies beyond.The human soul, entrusted to us by Allah, animates our being, seeks truth, and strives for balance. Its growth can be nurtured by faith and attentiveness to the signs of Allah, which surround us in every aspect of life. Allah reminds us in Surah Al-Baqarah: “Indeed, Allah is not ashamed to present an example – that of a mosquito or what is smaller than it.” This verse encourages reflection on even the smallest of His creations, as each contains lessons and reminders for those who seek them. Such signs offer us a deeply personal connection to Allah, guiding us toward morality and truth.Faith is both universal in its principles and uniquely personal in its manifestations. The mind and heart form a sacred dialogue between us and Allah, growing clearer with effort, reflection, and sincerity. Our bodies, though temporary vessels tied to this earthly life, house eternal souls destined to return to Allah. While the earth supports us, it is not the source of life; it serves as a stage for our test, where we balance submission, action, and trust in Allah.Life’s uneven rhythm reminds us that each of us has an appointed term—a time to realize our potential and fulfill our purpose. Whether navigating life on the metaphorical ship of hope or steadily moving through its busyness, we are reminded of the preciousness and fleeting nature of our time here.Events like a tsunami warning are stark reminders of life’s vulnerability and how swiftly circumstances can change. They echo the guidance Allah has provided in the Qur’an, a divine framework that keeps us humble, balanced, and just. It reminds us that we are neither superior nor hold authority over one another; ultimate authority belongs only to Allah. Such moments encourage us to prepare for the inevitable change we all face: the transition from this life to the next.Following Allah’s guidance, we are called to embrace the truth revealed in the Qur’an and to accept reality for what it is, rather than resist it. Faith encourages us to move beyond doubts, excuses, and fleeting comforts, instead nurturing our character and reliance on Allah. It is a transformative journey that covers both emotional and intellectual growth. It reshapes our understanding of life, aligning our integrity and accountability with the divine principles that anchor our existence. This transformation is not instantaneous but a gradual process of learning to entrust our matters to Allah..Allah tests us to strengthen our faith and cultivate patience, often in ways we may not fully understand. These trials serve as opportunities to refine our character and reaffirm our reliance on Him. Yet, when we choose independence over submission, disregarding the guidance He has provided or the reasons He has revealed for avoiding certain paths, there are inevitable consequences. Such choices risk undermining the very principles of trust and obedience that form the foundation of our relationship with Allah.At the heart of this journey lies a truth that differs from one to another: we are accountable for what we know. Awareness carries responsibility, and acknowledging a matter without acting on it jeopardizes the sanctity of Allah’s guidance. His perspective is boundless—He is all-knowing, all-seeing, and infinitely wise. While our view is narrow and fleeting, Allah’s understanding spans the intricacies of our lives and the lives of those connected to us.Patience is a virtue Allah emphasizes repeatedly because He knows that humanity is prone to haste. In patience, we are given the time to process, reflect, and align ourselves with His will. It is within this space of waiting that Allah works in ways we cannot see, orchestrating outcomes with precision and care. Unlike the transactional systems of the world, such as a social security office, Allah’s handling of our matters is deeply intricate and intentional, involving every person, event, and detail in our lives.This realization encourages us to approach life with humility and trust, recognizing that Allah’s wisdom surpasses our understanding. The gradual process of transformation through answering His higher calling teaches us that faith isn’t about quick solutions but requires enduring trust, active patience, and the willingness to relinquish control over distractions. Allah reminds us in Surah Maryam, verse 39, to carefully consider what is best for our morality and overall well-being, and that delaying our response to belief has its limits."Do you wonder that there has come to you a Reminder (and an advice) from your Lord through a man from amongst you that he may warn you? And remember that He made you successors after the people of Nuh (Noah), and increased you amply in stature. So remember the graces (bestowed upon you) from Allah, so that you may be successful." 7:69And We have certainly diversified for the people in this Qur'an from every [kind] of example, but most of the people refused [anything] except disbelief.

Allah's Higher Calling

Life, with its rich diversity and array of differences, is shaped by how we perceive and experience them. As our awareness deepens, we gain a fuller understanding of the complexities surrounding us. In today’s fast-paced world, where personal experiences are influenced by family, culture, society, and environment, outward appearances can easily obscure the deeper truths lying beneath. The mindset we adopt—whether open to growth or rigid—directly influences our perceptions, often restricting us to surface-level impressions that may be misleading or incomplete. Yet, with an open heart and mind, these hidden truths can reveal themselves with the respected time we give. Otherwise, they may remain concealed, right before our eyes, waiting to be recognized.As situations unfold before us, the tension between perception and reality often urges us to question whether what we observe represents the full truth, or if a deeper understanding exists beyond appearances. Recognizing a reality rooted in unity and purpose, aligned with Allah’s divine order, empowers us to break free from rigid criteria we've created to interpret life, revealing that it cannot be confined to any single mold. This perspective allows us to look beyond surface differences, revealing the core of life’s challenges. By embracing the essence Allah (swt) has intricately woven into our existence, we move beyond superficial views, upholding the truth of being.&nbsp;The distinction between appearance and reality is essential for filtering out distractions and imposed thoughts that can cloud our perception. In a world that frequently promotes distorted values, it’s vital to remain grounded in our experiences and consistently train our minds to stay clear, especially when facing misleading influences. Islam emphasizes that being true to oneself holds far greater importance than simply appearing so, particularly in the broader journey of life. This principle encourages us to nurture our own genuine understanding and to seek out life’s hidden truths and fair rights.Being a Muslim doesn’t mean that Islam provides a precise roadmap for every situation we encounter. Instead, growth and understanding unfold through the challenges and mistakes we experience. At times, the pressure to follow the Quran can create a fixed mindset, leading to surface-level judgments of our most profound connection. Allah (swt) calls us not just to read the Quran but to reflect deeply, encouraging us to see beyond appearances as many chapters begin with verses that are challenging to interpret. This serves as a reminder of the Quran's limitless wisdom, urging us to continually pursue deeper insights while humbly recognizing the natural limits of human understanding.There is a paradox in our limited understanding of divine judgment—between what we assume Allah (swt) may judge and how we make choices without fully grasping His wisdom. The Quran consistently reminds us that we are part of a divine plan unfolding over time, and our role is to walk a path of integrity. The laws within the scripture remind us that Allah's guidance is not an occasional intervention but works as a continuous balance that actively shapes our existence in ways we may not always perceive.From the beginning of time, the story of Adam and Hawa &nbsp;reflects this paradox. Iblis deceived them, making what was false seem alluring and what was true appear insignificant. This mirrors the challenges we face today, where life's greatest distractions appear in plain sight. The material aspects of life seem grand and essential, while spiritual and moral truths are often dismissed as insignificant. Shaytan thrives on flipping our perception, making the trivial seem vital and the essential seem irrelevant.This paradox shows&nbsp; what seems insignificant—our daily decisions, acts of kindness, or moments of prayer—are actually the foundation of our life’s true purpose. Worldly pursuits like status, wealth, and recognition often divert our attention from what truly matters. Shaytan’s greatest tactic is to make us prioritize fleeting desires over our connection to Allah (swt), steering us away from our real journey. Even this message can be quickly overlooked or dismissed as trivial, requiring patience and reflection to fully appreciate its deeper meaning.In His boundless wisdom, Allah (swt) granted Iblis a temporary reprieve, fully aware that Iblis’s pride was inherently divisive and disruptive to harmony. Iblis’s arrogance blinded him to anything beyond his own capacity for destruction, embodying the nature of an adversary fixated on sowing division through power. Some may ask why Allah, having created Iblis, would not simply eliminate this threat to humanity. However, Allah’s divine law does not simply erase His creation; rather, He has set an appointed time for all things, known only to Him. Iblis’s rebellion, rooted in a refusal to recognize the truth, reveals a profound weakness—an unwillingness to submit, marked by narcissistic pride. While Iblis’s influence can be widespread, it will never overcome the inherent peace and guidance found in a sincere Muslim.&nbsp;Free will is both a gift and a test— when we resist the influence of Iblis’s whispers and the deceptions around us, we begin to see life as a journey of stages that inevitably shape our character. Each phase, no matter how difficult, draws us closer to Allah (swt). Even though Iblis’ deceit may be in plain sight, yet, where he saw superiority, we are called to embrace humility and responsibility. The same freedom Iblis used to justify his arrogance is the very freedom we possess to choose our path to salvation.Embracing this state of being means respecting the natural boundaries Allah has set for us. The state of being requires patience, especially in times of misunderstanding or when life doesn't meet our expectations. It is a force grounded in faith, trusting that Allah’s wisdom prevails over our limited perspective. But to be fully, we must endure the trials of seeming—learning to see beyond superficial judgments. Through these experiences, we distinguish between temporary illusions and eternal truths. Ultimately, to be is to align with the reality Allah (swt) has decreed, moving through life with grace, patience, and a deeper understanding of our purpose."If you do not aid the Prophet - Allah has already aided him when those who disbelieved had driven him out [of Makkah] as one of two, when they were in the cave and he said to his companion, "Do not grieve; indeed Allah is with us." And Allah sent down his tranquillity upon him and supported him with angels you did not see and made the word of those who disbelieved the lowest, while the word of Allah - that is the highest. And Allah is Exalted in Might and Wise." Quran 9:40In this verse, Allah subtly reminds us that our personal inclinations and judgments hold no weight when it comes to how we perceive or confront other believers. Allah alone determines outcomes, and this verse reassures us that He protects those who are sincere in their faith. Through the example of the Prophet (ﷺ) and his companion in the cave, we see that even when others fail to support, Allah’s support is constant, sending peace, unseen forces, and making His Word supreme. This demonstrates Allah’s wisdom and power in safeguarding His devoted servants, irrespective of human opinions or actions.Our ultimate reality is that we are all living to return to our Creator. This return is not something to fear but a journey meant to refine our souls. Upholding our religion is not a burden; instead, it is the path that reconnects us to the source of our existence. The sooner we embrace this truth, the more peaceful and fulfilled we will be.

Blog | Soul Air Reality

Beyond the Illusion

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Guidance is Hidden in Plain Sight

Unity Over Division

Allah's Higher Calling

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