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Autumn landscape, sunrise in a foggy morning in the region of Orava, Slovakia, Europe.

<div class="adn ads" data-message-id="#msg-a:r888042898084538991" data-legacy-message-id="18b5602ad7ecd9d1"><div class="gs"><div class=""><div id=":mw" class="ii gt"><div id=":mx" class="a3s aiL "><div>By, Nora Taher Barhoum&nbsp;</div><div><br data-mce-bogus="1"></div><div>In the journey of being a Muslim, there can come a time that we realize the need to deepen our connection with Allah (swt).&nbsp; I gradually came to this realization and need of this higher power as certain life outcomes left me feeling confused prompting me to embark on a journey to not only seek guidance but also improve and fortify my prayers with Allah (swt).&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>It was a process that spanned years, during which I faithfully performed the five daily prayers, yet in hindsight, I found myself struggling to fully comprehend it's true significance. Life’s distractions and a lack of sincerity had hindered my ability to experience the profound benefits of prayer. There were times when I would feel like I was on autopilot, and times I prayed the obligatory prayers just to tell myself I did.&nbsp; In all honesty, I wasn't feeling content, yet I still held strong to do the best I could.&nbsp;&nbsp;</div><div><br></div><div>In the recent years, I had the privilege of living with an older and wiser individual who served as a guiding light on my path. Though at the time of this living arrangement, I had a resistance to the level of her dedication in prayer, which was out of pure ignorance on my part. Giving our dynamic, I had to alter a lot of my life to respectfully care and spend the quality time we needed as a family living under one roof. Although it posed numerous challenges, I considered myself fortunate to have been able to strike a balance between the different aspects of my life- the "who, what, and where" of myself, as well as the "good, bad, and ugly" of every situation. This allowed me to maintain a positive outlook and consistency in order to preserve my inner peace and be a source of stability for my children.</div><div><br></div><div>I maintained an exceptionally good relationship with her but I must admit that I overlooked and at times, unfairly judged her actions of engaging in extra prayer and supplications. I failed to recognize that these practices were not signs of vulnerability, but rather a display of her deep faith and connection with Allah (swt). I regret not taking the time to understand her perspective and appreciate the significance these actions held for her. &nbsp;I realize now that my ego had hindered my vision of her truth and enthusiasm. Irony at it's finest had served me, and not only do I deserve it but now I am so grateful for her and the lessons learned along the way.</div><div><br></div><div>Things change and life goes on but growth only happens when you open your heart to what you learn. You discover that witnessing is contrary to actually experiencing. Seeming is not the same as being.&nbsp; Belief is strong but does not grant power or seniority to any individual. As a Muslim, we acknowledge that our souls are constantly seeking peace. The Quran and prayer serve as sources of guidance and nourishment for our souls, allowing us to embody that peace in our mind and body. In this belief, we are reminded to nourish, preserve, and protect what lies within us, taking into account our unique life circumstances and perspectives.</div><div><br></div><div>So it turns out, that is all she was doing the whole time and I didn't begin to understand the degrees of faith one can experience or the depth of dedication as I was walking my butterfly trailed life, then I realized I was trapped within the confines of a metaphorical mountain that I needed to climb out of. So, with the most reasonable approach to my reality, to maintain livelihood, for the sake of maturity, positivity, patience, respect, love, knowledge, morals, values, fairness and ultimate service as a mother as well...I sought my ultimate source with wholehearted love because I believe in Allah, The Quran, the angels, the signs, the prophets and His revelations.</div><div><br></div><div>Life is both serious and delicate, and I found it necessary to separate myself from societal norms and embrace my own unique approach to navigate through significant life changes.&nbsp; So I approached prayer with authenticity and patience and that is how I truly started understanding His 99 names. His guidance acts as both protection and light. It becomes apparent that He conceals and reveals what is necessary.&nbsp;Allah, in his infinite wisdom, brings light to even the darkest of situations and alleviate the burdens of despair according to our individual and authentic needs. He understands us at our core. His divine intervention is tailored to our unique circumstances, ensuring that we receive the assistance we truly require to embrace our own authenticity.</div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div><br></div><div class="yj6qo"><br></div><div class="adL"><br></div></div></div></div></div></div>

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silhouette of a tree next to a small rural road in front of vivid blue sky with white clouds while sunset

<figure id="figure-psqy57luhlp8uo4nk"><img id="psqy57luhlp8uo4nk" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/1cVuhKpZ0uCdps9Js3JRiyYFpAiP3wfKR3ptcintETnZCIBjpzNKc0s6qUIejB0j.jpeg" alt="Child Hand shows the two fingers with word " class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionx="null" data-positiony="null" data-mce-src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/1cVuhKpZ0uCdps9Js3JRiyYFpAiP3wfKR3ptcintETnZCIBjpzNKc0s6qUIejB0j.jpeg" data-mce-style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: center center;"></figure><p><br></p><p class="summary">By, Nora Taher Barhoum<br>Assisted by AI Chatbot&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p><p><img class="divider entered lazyloaded" src="https://quranaudio.myislam.org/audio/99%20names%20of%20Allah/section-divide.png" data-lazy-src="https://quranaudio.myislam.org/audio/99%20names%20of%20Allah/section-divide.png" data-ll-status="loaded" data-mce-src="https://quranaudio.myislam.org/audio/99%20names%20of%20Allah/section-divide.png">This personal analysis compares how the investment of prayer can be seen as parallel to the investment made through paying taxes. However, the distinction lies in the fact that taxes contribute to the well-being of the mind and body in this worldly life, while the investment of prayer is directed towards worldly guidance and the retirement of the soul's afterlife.</p><p>At its core, Social Security Benefits aim to provide different levels of support to individuals based on their needs. Similarly, for a Muslim, prayer is divided into different tiers or levels, each serving a unique purpose and offering specific benefits to the believer. Just as the Social Security System provides a safety net for individuals in society, prayer serves as a spiritual safety net for believers, offering them guidance, solace, and a connection to Allah (swt).</p><p>The first tier of prayer in Islam is the obligatory prayer, known as&nbsp; Salah. Just as the foundational tier of the Social Security System provides basic support to all individuals, prayer is a Fard, which is a mandatory act of worship that Muslims are required to perform five times a day. This tier of prayer ensures that believers have a solid foundation in their spiritual journey, much like how the Social Security ensures a basic level of support for all members of society. </p><p>The second tier of prayer in Islam is the voluntary prayer, known as Sunnah. These additional prayers are not obligatory but are highly recommended. They serve as a means for believers to earn extra spiritual rewards and strengthen their relationship with Allah by following the path of our Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) and his teachings. Similarly, in the Social Security Tiers, there are additional benefits and programs that individuals can opt for to enhance their level of support.&nbsp;</p><p>The third tier of prayer in Islam is the extra prayers, known as Nafl. These prayers are completely optional and are performed out of one’s own will and devotion. They are a way for believers to go above and beyond the minimum requirements and seek additional closeness to Allah (swt).&nbsp;</p><p>With this comparison, we can appreciate the importance of prayer in Islam and the role it plays in providing spiritual security and well-being as Muslims.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

Taxes are an Investment too

<figure id="figure-rxv27j0p7qlo21jxef"><img id="rxv27j0p7qlo21jxef" src="https://cdn.durable.co/shutterstock/2fwWpfWnmT6Rr0JPmFboLutx3aU0AWm5TbUseuP1Ne14X9fBwKGpIa5h86EZDIz8.jpeg" alt="" class="object-cover bg-gray-100 rounded-sm md:rounded-md lg:rounded-lg" style="aspect-ratio: 16/9; object-position: undefined undefined;" data-corners="default" data-aspect="16:9" data-caption="" data-positionX="undefined" data-positionY="undefined"/></figure><p><br></p><p><strong>This introduction highlights the interconnectedness of our experiences and the role they play in shaping our relationships and spiritual growth.</strong></p><p>In life, we often face trials and difficulties that are part of Allah's plan for us. These challenges not only serve to shape and strengthen us as individuals, but they also have an impact on those around us. Our struggles can become a test for others, as they observe how we navigate through adversity and handle the obstacles that come our way. </p><p>It is important to remember that each person has their own unique journey and set of circumstances. We should not be preoccupied with proving ourselves to others or seeking validation from them. Instead, our focus should be on staying within our own boundaries and staying true to ourselves. </p><p>Only we can truly understand the depth of our own experiences and the truth of our own matters. It is up to us to discern what needs to be done in order to find stability and balance in our lives. This involves taking care of our mind, body, and soul, and making decisions that align with our own well-being and personal growth. </p><p>Ultimately, it is through our own self-awareness and understanding that we can find the strength and resilience to face life's challenges and overcome them.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p>

Overcoming Trials and Building Stronger Bonds

<p>By: Nora Taher Barhoum<br>🌻Assisted by ChatBot</p><p>In society, there are people who, upon learning about personal choices they don't agree with, feel entitled to discount and ridicule those who hold those views. It's as if they believe that having knowledge of someone's choices gives them the power to silence and demean them. </p><p>This behavior can be seen as a form of silent blackmail, where they use their opinions as a weapon to control and manipulate others. However, what these individuals fail to realize is that their understanding is limited and incomplete. </p><p>They may think they know everything about a particular matter, but in truth, they only have a superficial understanding. They lack the depth of knowledge and insight necessary to truly comprehend the complexities and nuances of someone else's choices. </p><p>By dismissing and ridiculing others based on their own opinions, they create a false sense of superiority and righteousness. They label the arguments of others as "invalid" without taking the time to truly understand and engage with them. </p><p>This serves as a distraction from the real issues at hand and prevents meaningful dialogue and understanding from taking place. It is important for individuals to recognize their own boundaries and limitations when it comes to understanding and judging others.</p><p> Instead of resorting to dismissive tactics, it is more productive to approach differing opinions with an open mind, seeking to learn and understand rather than to invalidate and ridicule. Only through genuine empathy and respect can we foster a more inclusive and compassionate society.</p>

Navigating Boundary Breach

<p>By: Nora Taher Barhoum&nbsp;<br>Assisted by that ChatBot</p><div class="adn ads" data-message-id="#msg-a:r-2546462259470042585" data-legacy-message-id="18b4fafa7f7f91a3"><div class="gs"><div class=""><div id=":mi" class="ii gt"><div id=":mj" class="a3s aiL "><div class="adL"><br></div></div></div></div></div></div><p>In Surah Mujadila (58:1) It highlights the importance of a woman's stance and her right to express her concerns and complaints. It demonstrates that Allah is aware of the conversations and arguments that take place between individuals, including those involving a woman and her husband. </p><p>This verse affirms that Allah hears the dialogue and complaints of women, emphasizing that He is All-Hearing and All-Seeing. It signifies that Allah is attentive to the grievances and concerns of women, and He acknowledges their right to seek justice and resolution. It encourages women to turn to Allah in prayer and supplication, seeking guidance and support in difficult situations. </p><p>At the same time, it is important to note that this verse does not imply that women are inherently weaker or in need of delicate measures due to the strength of men. Rather, it highlights the importance of addressing disputes and conflicts within marital relationships with wisdom, patience, and fairness.</p><p> Islam promotes the concept of mutual respect, understanding, and cooperation between spouses. It encourages open communication, active listening, and the fair resolution of conflicts. This verse reinforces the idea that both men and women have the right to express their concerns and have their voices heard, and it emphasizes the role of Allah as the ultimate arbiter and source of guidance. </p><p>By following the teachings of Al Mujadila, believers can gain a better understanding of how to maintain a sense of safety in Allah's guidance and support.&nbsp;</p><p><br></p>

Equitable Support

Summer landscape with sunflowers that blooms in the field

<p>By 🌻 Nora Taher Barhoum&nbsp;<br>Assisted by my ChatBot</p><p>When you turn to Allah and plead your case, He listens attentively and responds in a way that encompasses every aspect of your situation. He understands the depth of your concerns and takes it upon Himself to protect and safeguard them.</p><p>This does not mean that individuals are exempt from the consequences of their choices or that they can simply rely on Allah to fix all their mistakes. Instead, recognizing that humans are fallible and will inevitably make errors, allows us to openly trust Allah and still be accountable for our actions.&nbsp;</p><p> </p><p>In His infinite wisdom, Allah never places upon you burdens that exceed your capacity to handle. Instead, He provides you with the strength and resilience necessary to navigate through the challenges you face. </p><p>Allah's response is not limited to a mere conclusion or outcome. It goes beyond that. His response is filled with care and compassion, tailored specifically to your needs. He guides you towards self-care, encouraging you to take the necessary steps to nurture your own well-being. He shows you the path of healing, offering support and guidance along the way. </p><p>As you walk this path, Allah emphasizes the importance of patience. He reminds you that patience is not just about enduring difficulties, but also about maintaining a steadfast faith and trust in Him. </p><p>It is through patience that you can truly embody the qualities of a Muslim, striving to emulate the character of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and seeking comfort in the knowledge that Allah is always there for you, ready to provide the care and guidance you need. In this holistic approach, we create the balance of taking personal responsibility and trusting Allah (swt).&nbsp;</p><p><br></p><p><br></p>

Blog | Soul Air Reality

New Post

Taxes are an Investment too

Overcoming Trials and Building Stronger Bonds

Navigating Boundary Breach

Equitable Support

Religion is Divine Arbitration