Leverage the Ledger

Life, as we know it, is the unfolding result of history—shaped by every choice, intention, and unseen cause before us. The Qur’an teaches that the world is not random; it is delicately programmed according to Allah’s laws of natural balance and justice. There exists an automatic formula woven into creation itself—one that no technology, mindset, or modern attitude can override.

This formula quietly accumulates the charges impressed upon our souls through what we do, say, and intend, measuring them against the sole expectation Allah has placed upon each of us: to use the unique intelligence He gifted us. In this divine system, history is not merely a sequence of events, but an active ledger of moral cause and effect—a living testimony that our actions matter, both seen and unseen. Through these verses, the Qur’an invites us to awaken to this truth: that our reality is bound to a higher justice, and each soul carries the responsibility to uphold it.

Surah 42 Ash-Shura  Verses 6-20

In verse 6:

“And as for those who take as Auliya’ (protectors, helpers, lords, gods) others besides Him (Allah) — Allah is Hafeez (Protector, Guardian) over them, and you (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) are not a Wakil (disposer of their affairs or a guardian) over them.”

Allah is addressing Muslims, reminding them about those who turn to others for hidden help or influence in ways that go against His guidance. Sometimes “auliya’” can include sneaky behaviors, like using hidden cameras or recording devices for selfish reasons. Allah reminds us that He alone decides the best protectors for us. If we seek shortcuts or enter situations through the “back door,” ignoring that Allah is ever-watchful, it defeats the purpose of His Oneness. Only Allah can rightfully appoint the authority that truly helps us.

In verse 7:

“And thus We have inspired unto you (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) a Qur’an in Arabic, that you may warn the Mother of the Towns (Makkah) and all around it, and warn (them) of the Day of Assembling, whereof there is no doubt: when a party will be in Paradise and a party in the blazing Fire.”

Allah reminds us that Muslims must stand openly for peace, whether alone or in crowds. Even if the message is tampered with, the Qur’an remains a trust each Muslim carries, keeping its guidance clear. A Muslim who lives by the Qur’an’s laws with sincerity naturally becomes a “warner,” spreading goodness and attracting blessings. Good intentions bring the presence of angels, who drive away the negative whispers of Shaytān’s jinn.

In verse 8:

“And if Allah had willed, He could have made them one nation, but He admits whom He wills to His Mercy. And the Zālimūn (wrong-doers) will have neither a Wali (protector) nor a helper.”

This speaks of free will and our natural individuality. Allah admitting whom He wills to His Mercy shows that belief isn’t just something claimed by words; it requires sincere effort and intention. Believers who only follow when it suits them are cautioned here. Allah affirms that for those who are sincere, He Himself becomes their protecting friend and helper.

In verse 9:

“Or have they taken (for worship) Auliya’ besides Him? But Allah – He Alone is the Wali (Protector). And it is He Who gives life to the dead, and He is Able to do all things.”

Allah emphasizes His unique position as Al-Wali, the only true protecting friend. His greatness should not be underestimated or diluted with vague thoughts or taking shortcuts that dismiss His presence. Such choices only deceive ourselves, because we inevitably face lessons that correct our mistakes.

In verse 10:

“And in whatsoever you differ, the decision thereof is with Allah. (And say): Such is Allah, my Lord, in Whom I put my trust, and to Him I turn in repentance.”
Allah invites us to turn back to Him when we differ or rush to judgment. Instead of letting differences divide us, we should trust His wisdom, ask for understanding, and remember He alone is the ultimate Judge and Helper.

In verse 11:

“The Creator of the heavens and the earth. He has made for you mates from yourselves, and for the cattle (also) mates: by this means He creates you. There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the All-Hearer, the All-Seer.”

Allah reminds us of our origins: that souls were created in pairs. This emphasizes purity and harmony in creation, and suggests that if humanity reflected the purity of angels, the world itself could become like paradise.

In verse 12:

“To Him belong the keys of the heavens and the earth. He enlarges provision for whom He wills, and straitens it (for whom He wills). Verily, He is the All-Knower of everything.”

At first, this verse may feel conditional, but it is Allah’s direct truth—no sugarcoating. A true believer (Muttaqi) accepts both the ease and difficulty Allah sends, because it comes from our ultimate protecting Friend, who knows best.

In verse 13:

“He has ordained for you the same religion which He ordained for Nūḥ (Noah), and that which We have inspired in you (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم), and that which We ordained for Ibrāhīm (Abraham), Mūsā (Moses), and ‘Īsā (Jesus): saying you should establish religion and make no divisions in it…”

Allah connects our faith to that of past prophets, highlighting the same essential guidance. Even Muslims sometimes resist the higher calling of sincerity, but Allah chooses and guides those who truly turn to Him, with hearts that want His 99 Names and attributes to be active in their lives.

In verse 14:

“And they divided not until after knowledge had come to them, through selfish transgression…”

This refers to those who knew the truth yet turned away when it became inconvenient. They are Muslims who ignore inner guidance, asking for more time and easing into “spiritual vacations.” Collective sincerity should strengthen faith, but personal desires often lead to division.

In verse 15:

“So unto this (religion) then invite (people) and stand firm as you are commanded… Allah will assemble us (all), and to Him is the final return.”

This verse encourages Muslims to share the message sincerely, without comparing deeds or judging others. It is a call to convey truth with justice and humility, treating others as we would wish to be treated.

In verse 16:

“And those who dispute concerning Allah after it has been accepted – of no use is their dispute before their Lord…”

Following Islam can attract criticism, much like past communities divided and argued. Islam’s message protects the future’s vulnerability by upholding peace, despite historical resistance.

In verse 17:

“It is Allah Who has sent down the Book in truth, and the Balance…”

Allah reaffirms that the Qur’an came as truth and justice—a reminder of life’s fleeting nature and the need to act righteously before the Hour arrives.

In verse 18:

“Those who believe not therein seek to hasten it, while those who believe are fearful of it, and know it is the very truth…”

Believers fear and respect the Hereafter, understanding why it matters, while those who ignore signs remain distant from the truth.

In verse 19:

“Allah is Subtle (kind) with His slaves; He gives provisions to whom He wills…”

Allah reassures us that He sees our struggles and intentions. His strength works in ways we might not see or fully grasp, but it always aligns with justice and mercy.

In verse 20:

“Whosoever desires the harvest of the Hereafter, We give him increase… and whosoever desires the harvest of this world… has no portion in the Hereafter.”

Here, Allah invites us to look beyond short-term gains. “Harvest” refers to the life we cultivate: actions and intentions meant for lasting benefit, not fleeting worldly rewards.