Surah Al Qasas: Staying True to The Narration

Surah Al-Qasas provides valuable ethical insights into our actions by emphasizing accountability, justice, as it describes the guidance of Prophet Moses. Apprehension is natural feeling we experience when it comes to fulfilling responsibilities towards Allah swt, however, it highlights the support He gives for those who uphold truth and fairness, even in the face of significant challenges.

"But We produced [many] generations [after Moses], and prolonged was their duration. And you were not a resident among the people of Madyan, reciting to them Our verses, but We were senders [of this message]."

In this verse, Allah (SWT) acknowledges that Prophet Muhammad was not a direct witness to the events of Prophet Moses' time but rather an inheritor of His message. This acknowledgment implies a significant responsibility: to deeply understand, respect, and apply the teachings of Islam in our lives, thereby maintaining its principles and conveying its wisdom to future generations.

 
In our world today, where knowledge and understanding have advanced remarkably, it’s clear that deceitful behaviors have persisted and even evolved alongside these advancements. Actions like lying, spying, backbiting, and slander are, at their core, misleading behaviors. In attempting to reassure ourselves that others are less worthy of respect and honor, we overlook the deep sadness that arises from such misguided projections. This highlights a fundamental aspect of human nature: no matter how much we progress, the struggle between the ego and the soul remains a constant and central challenge in our lives.

While these actions may seem to offer immediate benefits, like gaining an advantage or protecting oneself, they are universally condemned, not just in Islam but for all of humanity, because of their deeply destructive nature. Engaging in deceit programs our minds to perceive information through a selfish lens, feeding our egos while disconnecting our hearts from our decisions. This disconnection can lead to inner confusion due to a lack of balance and fulfillment. As these behaviors deepen the void within us, they distance us further from our true essence—our fitrah, the natural inclination toward truth and righteousness.

"and when they hear any vain talk, they turn away from it, saying: “We have our deeds and you have your deeds. Peace be to you. We do not desire to act like the ignorant.”

When we engage in these harmful behaviors, our actions begin to feed the ego, an invisible yet powerful force that seeks to dominate our thoughts and actions. It may seem like the ego advocates for us,  but when we look in the mirror, we are singled out seeing the reflection and responsibility of ourselves. Furthermore, if we allow this ego to persist, it can act like a "bully," creating a false sense of security by diminishing our confidence and distracting us from our true selves.

"And they say: 'If we follow the guidance with you, we would be snatched away from our land.' Have We not established for them a secure sanctuary (Makkah), to which are brought fruits of all kinds, a provision from Ourselves, but most of them know not."

This verse reflects the emotions that arise when we make decisions based on superficial considerations. Similarly, in Surah At-Tariq, Allah instructs us to be gently patient with disbelievers. While such vulnerability often seeks physical protection, our service of faith is to seek Allah's divine protection and guidance. 

Another extension of this behavior is the need to control information and manipulate situations through deceitful means, which is rooted in fear and insecurity. These actions are attempts to fill the emptiness created by a lack of genuine connection with our inner selves and consequently, with Allah (swt) because a content heart speaks for itself. 

"And he and his hosts were arrogant in the land, without right, and they thought that they would never return to Us." 
Quran 28:39

To let go of this need for control, it's important to recognize that these behaviors do not serve our true interests. They are distractions that keep us from focusing on what truly matters—living a life of integrity, honesty, and compassion. When we are more realistic in our decisions, we open our hearts to choices that serve our values and accept ourselves as we are. 

"These will be given their reward twice over, because they are patient, and repel evil with good, and spend (in charity) out of what We have provided them."

The world may seem vast, but Allah (swt) has shown us that He can make it small, bringing people, events, and circumstances into our lives that reveal the truth and teach us valuable lessons. While some situations may appear coincidental or unlikely, they are often part of the many tests of life. We will always receive the lessons and recompense necessary for our growth.

"And your Lord creates what He wills and chooses; not for them was the choice. Exalted is Allah and high above what they associate with Him."

Despite the challenges and distractions we face, Allah (swt) guides us, ensuring that we receive the lessons and recompense necessary for our spiritual journey. We'll realize that no amount of money, food, or luxurious lifestyle can ever replace the inner work that Allah (swt) wants us to do for ourselves. By seeking genuine value in our actions, we can forge the true meaning of living our lives with integrity and a content heart. 

"That home of the Hereafter We assign to those who do not desire exaltedness upon the earth or corruption. And the [best] outcome is for the righteous."

"Whoever comes before God with a good deed will receive a better reward; whoever comes with an evil deed will be punished only for what he has done."

One of the closing Ayahs, Allah acknowledges and disclaims the depth of work we have inherited and to stay focused on what He has revealed:
"And you were not expecting that the Book would be conveyed to you, but [it is] a mercy from your Lord. So do not be an assistant to the disbelievers."

In a different chapter, a verse in Surah Al Noor highlights the importance of opening our hearts to seek His guidance. The "light upon light" represents the layers of understanding that Allah gives to those who are receptive to His guidance. 

"Light upon light. Allah guides to His light whom He wills. And Allah presents examples for the people, and Allah is Knowing of all things."