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When Allah commands us in the Qur’an to “lower the gaze”, the message is often misinterpreted in purely literal terms—implying that we must constantly look downward or avoid eye contact. But if we reflect more deeply, we begin to understand that Allah is not asking us to walk through life with our heads bowed. Rather, He is inviting us to take full responsibility for how we process what we see. It’s about intentional restraint, not blind avoidance. It's about managing our thoughts and reactions, especially in moments where Satan seeks to influence our vulnerabilities.Lowering the gaze means recognizing when a visual encounter may provoke jealousy, desire, comparison, or insecurity—and choosing to respond with awareness instead of impulse. It is an act of strength and discipline that shields the heart from infection. Shaytan’s goal is not merely to get us to see something harmful, but to implant feelings and assumptions that pull us away from sincerity and peace.One of the first stories Allah tells us in the Qur’an is the story of Adam and Hawa. Shaytan’s jealousy toward them led him to deceive them into exposing their private parts—bringing upon them shame and embarrassment. This was not just a physical unveiling but a symbolic one. Satan was attempting to uncover and humiliate their loyalty to Allah by manipulating their sense of self and safety. This story is the blueprint of how Shaytan still operates today: using our insecurities and sensitivities to distort the natural trust we were created with.In our current reality, jealousy is everywhere. It fuels competition, influences relationships, and often disguises itself as love or care. But jealousy, when left unexamined or uncontrolled, begins to control us. It corrupts our intentions, silences honest communication, and distorts our perception of trust.Allah has given every human being a built-in system of detection—a kind of emotional and spiritual radar that allows us to recognize sincerity and falsehood. You can see this most clearly in children. Before they are influenced by ego or social pressure, they naturally gravitate toward those they trust. They are quick to detect discomfort or dishonesty. That same system exists in adults, but it can become fogged by pride, fear, or unhealed wounds.The Qur’an is for all ages, but it strongly emphasizes the importance of moral and emotional maturity by the time a child reaches puberty. This is because puberty marks the beginning of a deeper accountability—the point when one becomes more susceptible to internal whispers and external pressures. This is also why, in marriage, communication becomes not just important—but sacred. If a spouse suppresses their truth out of fear of the other’s jealousy, then the trust between them becomes conditional. And when trust is conditional, love becomes performative.In marriage, Allah calls us to sincerity. The commitment is not just physical or legal—it’s spiritual. It is a union that demands clarity, vulnerability, and self-awareness. If either spouse fears expressing their needs, feelings, or even observations due to how the other might react, then jealousy has already taken control. And the original purpose of the relationship—to reflect mercy, love, and mutual support—is lost.I grew up in a household that often felt like a sitcom. My father had a playful nature and would openly make humorous remarks about a woman’s beauty. My mother never felt threatened by it because she knew him well. He, in turn, showed his appreciation for her care and support through his favorite saying: “The way to a man's heart is through his stomach.” Watching this dynamic taught me the importance of allowing a man to feel comfortable being himself, embraced by a balance of confidence and natural authority.&nbsp;The word relationship includes the word "relate," and "ship," symbolizing a journey that both individuals must navigate together. When jealousy takes hold of one partner, it often says more about what they need to work on than what the other did wrong. If a spouse begins to tiptoe around the other's insecurities just to “please” them, then the relationship becomes a stage, not a sanctuary. It creates a false sense of confidence and safety, leaving both partners starved for real connection.Allah speaks clearly in Surah An-Nisa (4:124–136), highlighting the reward for sincerity, the necessity of justice, and the importance of belief grounded in truth and balance. In verse 135, He commands: “Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah, even though it be against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin…” This includes our marriages. We are to uphold fairness and truth even when it feels uncomfortable or exposes a flaw within ourselves.When jealousy is acknowledged, reflected upon, and purified through open dialogue, it becomes a teacher rather than a tyrant. It points to insecurities we need to work on, past wounds we need to heal, and fears we need to outgrow. It invites us to grow—not just as individuals—but together as a couple.In the end, lowering the gaze is not about shame or restriction—it is about discernment. And in the same way, facing jealousy is not about avoiding conflict—it’s about choosing growth. Allah created us with emotions not to be ignored, but to be refined. In honoring them, with honesty and intention, we not only strengthen our relationships—we come closer to Allah Himself. Surah An-Nisa 124-1364:124 And whoever does righteous deeds, whether male or female, while being a believer — those will enter Paradise and will not be wronged, [even as much as] the speck on a date seed.4:125 And who is better in religion than one who submits himself to Allah while being a doer of good and follows the religion of Abraham, inclining toward truth? And Allah took Abraham as an intimate friend.4:126 And to Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. And ever is Allah, of all things, encompassing.4:127 They request from you, [O Muhammad], a [legal] ruling concerning women. Say, "Allah gives you a ruling about them and about what has been recited to you in the Book concerning the orphan girls to whom you do not give what is decreed for them — and [yet] you desire to marry them — and concerning the oppressed among children and that you maintain for orphans [their rights] in justice." And whatever you do of good — indeed, Allah is ever Knowing of it.4:128 And if a woman fears from her husband contempt or evasion, there is no sin upon them if they make terms of settlement between them — and settlement is best. And present in [human] souls is stinginess. But if you do good and fear Allah — then indeed Allah is ever Acquainted with what you do.4:129 And you will never be able to be equal [in feeling] between wives, even if you should strive [to do so]. So do not incline completely [toward one] and leave another hanging. And if you amend [your affairs] and fear Allah — then indeed, Allah is ever Forgiving and Merciful.4:130 But if they separate [by divorce], Allah will enrich each [of them] from His abundance. And ever is Allah Encompassing and Wise.4:131 To Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. And We have instructed those who were given the Scripture before you and yourselves to fear Allah. But if you disbelieve — then to Allah belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. And ever is Allah Free of need and Praiseworthy.4:132 And to Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth, and Allah is over all things competent.4:133 If He wills, He can do away with you, O people, and bring others [in your place]. And ever is Allah competent to do that.4:134 Whoever desires the reward of this world — then with Allah is the reward of this world and the Hereafter. And ever is Allah Hearing and Seeing.4:135 O you who have believed, be persistently standing firm in justice, witnesses for Allah, even if it be against yourselves or parents and relatives. Whether one is rich or poor, Allah is more worthy of both. So follow not [personal] inclination, lest you not be just. And if you distort [your testimony] or refuse [to give it], then indeed Allah is ever, with what you do, Acquainted.4:136 O you who have believed, believe in Allah and His Messenger and the Book that He sent down upon His Messenger and the Scripture which He sent down before. And whoever disbelieves in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, and the Last Day has certainly gone far astray. Surah Hajj22:58 Those who emigrated for the cause of Allah and then were killed or died — Allah will surely provide for them a good provision, and indeed, it is Allah who is the best of providers.22:59 He will surely admit them to Paradise, which He has made known to them.22:60 And those who emigrated after they had been harmed — indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.22:61 And [they are] those who, if We give them victory over the people, establish prayer and give zakah and enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong. And to Allah belongs the outcome of [all] matters.22:62 And if they deny you, [O Muhammad] — then already have those before them denied. Their messengers came to them with clear proofs and with scriptures and the enlightening Book.22:63 Then I seized the ones who disbelieved, and how [terrible] was My reproach.22:64 Do you not see that to Allah prostrates whoever is in the heavens and whoever is on the earth and the sun, the moon, the stars, the mountains, the trees, the moving creatures and many of the people? But upon many the punishment has been justified. And he whom Allah humiliates — for him there is no bestower of honor. Indeed, Allah does what He wills.22:65 Allah is the one who created the heavens and the earth and whatever is between them in six days; then He established Himself above the Throne. You have not besides Him any protector or any intercessor; so will you not be reminded?22:66 He directs the affair from the heaven to the earth; then it will ascend to Him in a Day, the extent of which is a thousand years of those which you count.22:67 And to every nation We have appointed religious ceremonies that they may mention the name of Allah over what He has provided for them of [sacrificial] animals. For your god is one God, so to Him submit. And, [O Muhammad], give good tidings to the humble.22:68 Who, when Allah is mentioned, their hearts are fearful, and the patient over what has afflicted them, and the establishers of prayer and those who spend from what We have provided them.22:69 And the camels and cattle We have appointed for you as among the symbols of Allah; for you therein is good. So mention the name of Allah upon them when lined up [for sacrifice]; and when they are [lifeless] on their sides, then eat from them and feed the needy and the beggar. Thus have We subjected them to you that you may be grateful.22:70 We have not created the heavens and earth and whatever is between them in play.22:71 Had We intended to take a diversion, We could have taken it from [what is] with Us — if [that is so] — indeed, We would have done so.22:72 Rather, We send the truth down, and it abolishes falsehood, and thereupon it disappears. And for you is destruction from that which you describe.22:73 O people, an example is presented, so listen to it. Indeed, those you invoke besides Allah will never create [as much as] a fly, even if they gathered together for that purpose. And if the fly should steal away from them a [tiny] thing, they could not recover it from him. Weak are the pursuer and pursued.22:74 They have not appraised Allah with true appraisal. Indeed, Allah is Powerful and Exalted in Might.22:75 Allah chooses from the angels messengers and from the people. Indeed, Allah is Hearing and Seeing.22:76 He knows what is before them and what will be after them, and to Allah will be returned [all] matters.22:77 O you who have believed, bow and prostrate and worship your Lord and do good — that you may succeed.22:78 And strive for Allah with the striving due to Him. He has chosen you and has not placed upon you in the religion any difficulty. [It is] the religion of your father, Abraham. Allah named you "Muslims" before [in former scriptures] and in this [revelation] that the Messenger may be a witness over you and you may be witnesses over the people. So establish prayer and give zakah and hold fast to Allah. He is your protector; and excellent is the protector, and excellent is the helper.Surah Taha20:114 So high [above all] is Allah, the Sovereign, the Truth. And, [O Muhammad], do not hasten with the Quran before its revelation is completed to you, and say, "My Lord, increase me in knowledge."20:115 And We had already taken a promise from Adam before, but he forgot; and We found not in him determination.20:116 And [mention] when We said to the angels, "Prostrate to Adam," and they prostrated, except for Iblis. He refused.20:117 So We said, "O Adam, indeed this is an enemy to you and to your wife. Then let him not remove you from Paradise so you would suffer."20:118 Indeed, it is [promised] for you not to be hungry therein or be unclothed.20:119 And indeed, you will not be thirsty therein or be hot from the sun.20:120 But Satan whispered to him; he said, "O Adam, shall I direct you to the tree of eternity and possession that will not deteriorate?"20:121 And Adam and his wife ate of it, and their private parts became apparent to them, and they began to fasten over themselves from the leaves of Paradise. And Adam disobeyed his Lord and erred.20:122 Then his Lord chose him and turned to him in forgiveness and guided [him].20:123 [Allah] said, "Descend from Paradise — all, [your descendants] being enemies to one another. And if there should come to you guidance from Me — then whoever follows My guidance will neither go astray [in the world] nor suffer [in the Hereafter]."20:124 But whoever turns away from My remembrance — indeed, he will have a depressed life, and We will gather him on the Day of Resurrection blind."20:125 He will say, "My Lord, why have You raised me blind while I was [once] seeing?"20:126 [Allah] will say, "Thus did Our signs come to you, and you forgot them; and thus will you this Day be forgotten."20:127 And thus do We recompense he who transgressed and did not believe in the signs of his Lord. And the punishment of the Hereafter is more severe and more lasting.20:128 Then did you not consider the kingdom of the heavens and the earth and whatever Allah has created, and [that] it may be that your appointed time has come near?20:129 So in what statement hereafter will they believe?20:130 So be patient, [O Muhammad]. Indeed, the promise of Allah is truth. And ask forgiveness for your sin and exalt [Allah] with praise of your Lord in the evening and the morning.20:131 Indeed, those who dispute concerning the signs of Allah without [any] authority having come to them — there is nothing in their breasts except pride, and they are arrogant.20:132 And establish prayer and give zakah and obey the Messenger — that you may receive mercy.20:133 Never did those who disbelieve among the people of the cities believe until there came to them the clear evidence.20:134 And if We had destroyed them with a punishment before him, they would have said, "Our Lord, why did You not send to us a messenger so we could have followed Your verses before we were humiliated and disgraced?"20:135 Say, "Each [of us] is waiting; so wait. For you will know who are the companions of the sound path and who is guided."

Handling the Sacred Bond

abstract blue green water wave, natural swirl pattern texture, background photography

Jargon Jam

Muslim pilgrims from all around the world doing tawaf, praying around the kabah in Mecca, Saudi Arabia

Center Your Attention

Beautiful wall of different colorful flowers

Following Allah’s guidance isn’t a straight, perfect line, and it was never meant to be. People often think that once someone claims something in the name of religion, they’ve reached some final destination or spiritual height — that they’re trying to impress, to show off something that in truth is deeply private, personal, and rooted in perception.The reality is, following Allah’s guidance is an ongoing, personal perception. It can easily be misunderstood or twisted by others to look like “using religion” for personal fame. For me, for instance, some people see the niqab itself as an intrusion on faith — it bothered them to even look at it. It bruised their egos to believe that someone like me, who lived the life I lived, could still walk the earth like this, with dignity and faith. They’d rather assume: “There must be something wrong with her, she must’ve sinned terribly, and now look how desperate she is to make us believe she’s so holy.”But for the sake of keeping the honored reasons in my heart — and honoring Allah, the One who truly knows what’s in my heart — He helped me keep walking forward with vision, confidence, and the patience He always entrusted in me. Long before the niqab became part of my life, I was already being scolded, already neutralizing the negative tendencies that surrounded and judged me.Even the simple, personal ways I kept my sanity were turned into reasons to judge me: walking five miles on a trail every morning became “too much,” choosing the comfort of my home, cooking, baking, entertaining — these were turned into accusations that I was “too good to be true.” And on the flip side, when it was convenient, suddenly I was “too much,” “too this,” “too that.”…with the heavy doubt people had surrounding my guidance and their vague perception doubting that I could actually understand what Allah is revealing through the wisdom of the Quran’s verses, it became too intellectual for others to absorb this concept. To them, it was just a flat statement: “Oh, Nora is saying this and that,” “She’s a liar, she’s crazy,” “She doesn’t even read Arabic well,” “She’s got an attitude — she’s probably just trying to get away with sin.”Even though I was proclaiming openly: This isn’t your average matter and it’s not something you hear every day. But making excuses for other people’s cynicism isn’t my responsibility — I did that for way too long before.They mistook my drastic withdrawal as a sign of being a cheater trying to hide, instead of what it truly was: me actually stepping back to understand this deeper form of guidance Allah was unfolding in our life. In the beginning, it was almost like a fashion show being watched in the community. And then, suddenly, I dropped from their eyes. The big house, the Benz, the good smile and the good spread — all of it exposed the true colors of people’s hearts. These favors from Allah were twisted into “favors of money” that I supposedly didn’t earn and never deserved. And so, the garment — which was supposed to represent sincerity, repentance, and protection — became an excuse for them to dispose of me in a manner that demeaned my entire existence. …that misunderstanding extended to the community too — and that itself was something Allah decreed, so it would confirm that this family trial wasn’t meant to stay hidden behind closed doors. It was meant to be extended for all to witness, so the whole truth and nothing but the truth would be delivered by Allah’s grace.So yes, I was even detained and taken to a mental ward twice — because proclaiming Allah’s word isn’t an everyday message, and this isn’t an everyday story. It shook people so deeply because it didn’t fit the safe, predictable narrative they wanted to hold onto.And ultimately, Allah made me get my hands "dirty" — to actually step into the fire, rather than just speak from afar. And I kept my patience when I was disrespected, because I wouldn’t have truly learned or earned the depth of understanding any other way. Through every humiliation, every accusation, and every attempt to silence me, Allah granted me knowledge that nobody can take away. Upon my arrival at the mental ward the first time, I had a debate with a pleasant doctor who was surprised to hear my reason for being there. He put me on a 72-hour hold and prescribed medication that I refused to take due to misunderstanding.The second time I was admitted to a mental ward, a team of doctors met with me and were appalled at the reason for my detainment — yet they took advantage of the fact that my story included the unproven notion of the FBI’s involvement and the guidance of Allah’s unseen entity. Both roles became tools that empowered those trying to hold me “captive.” Both “excuses” were used to accuse me of being mentally delusional, regardless of how lucidly I explained the matter and how thoroughly I answered their assessment questions.Complimenting my intelligence while simultaneously taking me to medical court to force the administration of medication was an insult to the integrity of both roles — with one side lacking sincerity and simply needing to control. Meanwhile, my role was to patiently embrace the confusion, and patiently avoid trying to control the outcomes. You can say that has been the theme for me this entire time.&nbsp; They kept me there for two weeks, and during that time I came to understand more deeply how Satan and the jinn can affect mental health — and how devastating their influence can be on someone who is truly vulnerable. Satan’s mission is to corrupt the mind, knowing that once the mind drifts, the body and soul will follow. He specifically targets minds that are weakened or distracted.It isn’t so much about “possession” as it is about submitting to desires that open the door to his whispers. The “ozone” layer of our soul absorbs his influence differently depending on the depth of our knowledge, the strength of our faith, and the history embedded in our DNA. Each of us has unique vulnerabilities to his influence.That’s why Allah commands us to follow His guidance — a spiritual protocol designed to protect us from Satan’s plan to lead us astray. Allah saw how Satan affected the descendants of Adam, which is why Prophet Ibrahim stood out as the first to truly recognize the spiritual need for healing and to seek peace through unwavering faith.Allah (SWT) emphasizes throughout the Qur’an that anyone who follows the path of the Prophet will be accused of practicing “magic” or being a “madman.” So while people conditionally demand that I must have a formal degree in the Qur’an to speak on it, Allah knows the degree of sincerity I’ve maintained in reading His words — in the language my heart embraced it. Yes, that personal perception is mine to own, but I’ve been openly, publicly, privately, and consistently responsible in sharing it — because this isn’t just about me. And to affirm that truth, Allah added years of proof to back me up.I went through all of the phases of Allahs mercy, each according to the guidance and protection that was needed, and yes the "loser" in me who's had one money making job in her life, was receptive to Allahs guidance, my intelligence hidden in plain sight because of all the other jobs I did for free, because its easier to call me a homewrecker rather than a legitimate homemaker.&nbsp;Surah Yunus (10): Verses 71–93 10:71-73 – The story of Nuh (Noah)And recite to them the news of Nuh (Noah). When he said to his people: "O my people, if my stay (with you), and my reminding (you) of the Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) of Allâh is hard on you, then I put my trust in Allâh. So devise your plot, you and your partners, and let not your plot be in doubt for you. Then pass your sentence on me, and give me no respite. But if you turn away [from accepting my doctrine of Islâmic Monotheism, i.e. to worship none but Allâh], then no reward have I asked of you, my reward is only from Allâh, and I have been commanded to be one of the Muslims (those who submit to Allâh's Will)." They denied him, but We delivered him and those with him in the ship, and We made them generations, while We drowned those who belied Our Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.). Then see how was the end of those who were warned. 10:74-93 – Messengers after Nuh &amp; the story of Musa (Moses)Then after him We sent Messengers to their people. They brought them clear proofs, but they were not such as to believe in what they had rejected before. Thus We seal the hearts of the transgressors (those who disbelieve in the Oneness of Allâh and disobey Him). Then after them We sent Mûsa (Moses) and Hârûn (Aaron) to Fir'aun (Pharaoh) and his chiefs with Our Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), but they behaved insolently and were people who were Mujrimûn (disbelievers, sinners, criminals, etc.). So when the truth came to them from Us, they said: "This is indeed clear magic." Mûsa (Moses) said: "Say you (this) about the truth when it has come to you? Is this magic? But magicians will never be successful." They said: "Have you come to us to turn us away from that (Faith) we found our fathers following, and that you two may have greatness in the land? We are not going to believe you two!" And Fir'aun (Pharaoh) said: "Bring me every well-versed sorcerer." And when the sorcerers came, Mûsa (Moses) said to them: "Cast down what you want to cast!" Then when they had cast down, Mûsa (Moses) said: "What you have brought is sorcery, Allâh will surely make it of no effect. Verily, Allâh does not set right the work of Al-Mufsidûn (the evil-doers, corrupters). "And Allâh will establish and make apparent the truth by His Words, however much the Mujrimûn (criminals, disbelievers, polytheists, sinners) may hate it." But none believed in Mûsa (Moses) except the offspring of his people, because of the fear of Fir'aun (Pharaoh) and his chiefs, lest they should persecute them; and verily, Fir'aun (Pharaoh) was arrogant tyrant on the earth, he was indeed one of the Musrifûn (polytheists, sinners, etc.). And Mûsa (Moses) said: "O my people! If you have believed in Allâh, then put your trust in Him if you are Muslims (those who submit to Allâh's Will)." They said: "In Allâh we put our trust. Our Lord! Make us not a trial for the folk who are Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers)" "And save us by Your Mercy from the disbelieving folk." And We inspired Mûsa (Moses) and his brother (saying): "Take dwellings for your people in Egypt, and make your dwellings as places for your worship, and perform As-Salât (Iqâmat-as-Salât), and give glad tidings to the believers." And Mûsa (Moses) said: "Our Lord! You have indeed bestowed on Fir'aun (Pharaoh) and his chiefs splendor and wealth in the life of this world, our Lord! That they may lead men astray from Your Path. Our Lord! Destroy their wealth, and harden their hearts, so that they will not believe until they see the painful torment." Allâh said: "Verily, the invocation of you both is accepted. So you both stand straight, and follow not the path of those who know not." And We took the Children of Israel across the sea, and Fir'aun (Pharaoh) with his hosts followed them in oppression and enmity, till when drowning overtook him, he said: "I believe that Lâ ilâha illa (Huwa): (none has the right to be worshipped but) He, in Whom the Children of Israel believe, and I am one of the Muslims (those who submit to Allâh's Will)." Now (you believe) while you refused to believe before and you were one of the Mufsidûn (evil-doers, corrupters). So this day We shall deliver your body (out from the sea) that you may be a sign to those who come after you! And verily, many among mankind are heedless of Our Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.). &nbsp; Surah Hud (11): Verses 19–22 Those who hinder (others) from the Path of Allâh, and would seek to make it crooked, they are disbelievers in the Hereafter. By no means will they escape (from Allâh's Torment) on earth, nor have they protectors besides Allâh! Their torment will be doubled! They could not bear to hear (the preaching), and they used not to see (the truth). They are those who have lost their ownselves, and their invented false deities will vanish from them. Certainly, they are those who will be the greatest losers in the Hereafter. &nbsp; Surah Al-Isra (17): Verses 52–65 It will be on the Day when He will call you and you will answer (His Call) with words of His Praise and Obedience, and you will think that you have stayed (in this world) but a little while! And say to My slaves (i.e. the true believers of Islâmic Monotheism) that they should (only) say those words that are the best. (Because) Shaitân (Satan) verily, sows disagreements among them. Surely, Shaitân (Satan) is to man a plain enemy. Your Lord knows you best. If He wills, He will have mercy on you; and if He wills, He will punish you. And We have not sent you (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) as a guardian over them. And your Lord knows best all who are in the heavens and the earth. And indeed, We have preferred some of the Prophets above others, and to Dâwûd (David) We gave the Zabûr (Psalms). Say (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم): "Call unto those besides Him whom you pretend [to be gods like angels, Iesâ (Jesus), 'Uzair (Ezra), etc.]. They have neither the power to remove the adversity from you nor even to shift it from you to another person." Those whom they call upon [like 'Iesâ (Jesus) - son of Maryam (Mary), Uzair (Ezra), angel, etc.] desire (for themselves) means of access to their Lord (Allâh), as to which of them should be the nearest; and they [Iesâ (Jesus), 'Uzair (Ezra), angels and others] hope for His Mercy and fear His Torment. Verily, the Torment of your Lord is (something) to be afraid of! And there is not a town (population) but We shall destroy it before the Day of Resurrection, or punish it with a severe torment. That is written in the Book (of our Decrees) And nothing stops Us from sending the Ayât (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), but that the people of old denied them. And We sent the she-camel to Thamûd as a clear sign, but they did her wrong. And We send not the signs except to warn, and to make them afraid (of destruction). And (remember) when We told you: "Verily! Your Lord has encompassed mankind (i.e. they are in His Grip)." And We made not the vision which We showed you (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم as an actual eye–witness and not as a dream on the night of Al-Isrâ’) but a trial for mankind, and (also) the accursed tree (mentioned) in the Qur’ân [see verse 44:43]. We warn them, but it only increases their naughtiness in great disbelief, oppression and disobedience to Allâh. And (remember) when We said to the angels: "Prostrate to Adam." They prostrated except Iblîs (Satan). He said: "Shall I prostrate to one whom You created from clay?" [Iblîs (Satan)] said: "See? This one whom You have honoured above me, if You give me respite to the Day of Resurrection, I will surely seize and mislead his offspring, all but a few!" (Allâh) said: "Go! And whosoever of them follows you, surely Hell will be the recompense of you (all) – an ample recompense. "And befool them gradually those whom you can among them, with your voice; make assaults on them with your cavalry and your infantry; share with them wealth and children (by tempting them to earn money by illegal ways – usury, bribes, by fornication etc.), and make promises to them." But Satan promises them nothing but deceit. "Verily! My slaves (i.e. the true believers of Islâmic Monotheism), you have no authority over them. And All-Sufficient is your Lord as a Guardian."Surah Maryam (19): Verses 58–64 Those were they unto whom Allâh bestowed His Grace, from among the Prophets, of the offspring of Adam, and of those whom We carried (in the ship) with Nûh (Noah), and of the offspring of Ibrâhîm (Abraham) and Isra'îl (Israel) – and from among those whom We guided and chose. When the Verses of the Most Beneficent (Allâh) were recited unto them, they fell down prostrate and weeping. Then, after them, there has succeeded an (evil) generation who have given up As-Salât (the prayers) [i.e. made their prayers to be lost, either by not offering them or by not offering them perfectly or on their prescribed times] and have followed lusts. So they will be thrown in Hell. Except those who repent and believe (in the Oneness of Allâh – Islâmic Monotheism) and work righteousness. Such will enter Paradise and they will not be wronged in aught. (They will enter) 'Adn (Eden) Paradise (everlasting Gardens), which the Most Beneficent (Allâh) has promised to His slaves in the Unseen. Verily! His Promise must come to pass. They shall not hear therein any Laghw (dirty, false, evil, vain talk), but only salâm (salutations of peace). And they will have therein their sustenance, morning and afternoon. Such is the Paradise which We shall give as an inheritance to those of Our slaves who have been Al-Muttaqûn (pious and righteous persons – see V.2:2). And we (angels) descend not except by the Command of your Lord (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم). To Him belongs what is before us and what is behind us, and what is between those two, and your Lord is never forgetfulQuran Surah Al Ankabut: 29:49 “Nay, but they, the clear Ayāt [i.e. the description and qualities of Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ] are preserved in the breasts of those who have been given knowledge (from the People of Scripture). And none but the Zālimūn (polytheists and wrongdoers, etc.) deny Our Ayāt.” myislam.org+15legacy.quran.com+15legacy.quran.com+1529:50 “And they say: ‘Why are not signs sent down to him from his Lord?’ Say: ‘The signs are only with Allāh, and I am only a plain warner.’” legacy.quran.com+6corpus.quran.com+6myislam.org+629:51 “And is it not sufficient for them that We revealed to you the Book which is recited to them? Indeed, in that is a mercy and reminder for a people who believe.” legacy.quran.com+7legacy.quran.com+7legacy.quran.com+729:52 “Say: ‘Sufficient is Allāh between me and you as Witness. He knows what is in the heavens and the earth.’ And those who believe in falsehood and disbelieve in Allāh — it is they who are the losers.”

Vice or Verse

Peach and apricot pink climbing rose, rosa Peach Melba, in flower.

By Allah’s mercy, He made it easy for me to convey His message — even the words that astonish people most: that my soul may be a reincarnation of Fatima Zahra’s noble spirit, and my blood may carry traces from the blessed lineage of the Prophets. And beyond these words, Allah called me to speak the voice of action: to challenge an inevitable truth He plans to prove — a truth so rightful, so ancient, it could never be mistaken for the shallow coincidences that Satan decorates as truth.This truth has always been tampered with by that subtle, easy distraction we all know too well — the desire to deny what is true, just to remain “right.” Yet there exists a divine formula hidden, as if suspended in the “ozone” of Quranic law: it measures justice against injustice. And the weight of injustice determines the pollution that clouds hearts and the purity of the spiritual oxygen we all breathe.Allah explains how Satan first provoked the sensitive DNA of Adam and Hawwa to listen to him — and from that moment, the struggle began. My soul, and the very DNA I carry, stepped into that ongoing test, absorbing what Allah wished to neutralize: the corruption born of arrogance, envy, and denial. And I say this without conceit: Allah is giving everyone involved in this family trial, this community affair, all the chances needed to stop rejecting the cause I’ve been entrusted to convey — and to stop casting me as the villain in a story they barely understand.For the close watchers, Allah tested them with the level of faith He knew I was stepping up to — faith they saw with their own eyes. They knew I was obeying, sincerely and quietly building a reputation rooted in truth, not self-praise. Yet my material blessings, my moments of ease, gave them an excuse to call me ungrateful, to suspect I must have cheated — because that seemed easier to believe.But a message like this can’t help but cause interruption; it forces some to work tirelessly to deny it, because in their hearts they know it holds weight they cannot hide from. And Allah, in His perfect wisdom, made their perception so vague that they ended up lost in the very game they tried to play — proving themselves unsafe and irresponsible with the light Allah offered us all in this trial.They see the garment — the niqab — as a costume, imagining it’s worn to collect praise or to perform piety. They do not see its real secret: that this garment, in this context, became a spiritual shield that will eventually call the cavalry of angels to respond. Because I've earned it. Angels motivate with a force far stronger than Satan’s influence— and Allah knew the boundaries I would keep and the heavy suspense of oppression I would endure. So He's used me as the prototype of every single person who's judged me, because I sincerely pleaded the peace I wanted and authentically held on to that principle.&nbsp;I know I’ve been turned into a mockery — a story people gather around to poke at and judge. But the intrusion has always come from them into my life — not the other way around. I am, in fact, the perfect example of someone who wouldn’t judge a person for showing their faith. It was only because of their intrusion, and their intent to stamp an opinion that holds me in contempt, that Allah eventually called for me to “intrude” — to confirm His significant opinion. And Allah made it easy for me to speak this truth, because what He decrees to be proven will indeed be proven, just as He proved it to me.&nbsp; Allah put me to work from a very young age; He “threw” me into the pit of life with the confidence of authority at my base. My father’s strictness became the framework that shaped my understanding of this “bootcamp” — one that actually helped me remain the responsible person I am and hold on to the consistency I earned by following Allah’s guidance, sincerely wanting to rectify my matters fairly. The obedience I learned through resistance became the obedience I earned through consistency.I was always passionate, spunky, and defensive by nature. I’ve always had a knack for diffusing any kind of negative energy — it’s just part of who I am; I instinctively reject negativity when I know it’s unnecessary. And yet, it was always an easy excuse for others to portray me as merely self-defensive — ignoring the fact that I also had the strength to actually defend what is right. And so the ultimate call is to listen deeper, to see the real cause being conveyed, and to understand that Allah’s justice is already at work — beyond what eyes can see, beyond what hearts try to reject. Because ultimately, Allah allows us to earn the roles He gives when we stay consistently in place.&nbsp; Bism Illah Al Rahman Al RaheemSurah An-Nisa&nbsp; 4:1 O mankind! Be dutiful to your Lord, Who created you from a single person (Adam), and from him (Adam) He created his wife [Hawwa (Eve)], and from them both He created many men and women; and fear Allah through Whom you demand your mutual (rights), and (do not cut the relations of) the wombs (kinship). Surely, Allah is Ever an All-Watcher over you.4:2 And give unto orphans their property and do not exchange (your) bad things for (their) good ones; and devour not their substance (by adding it) to your substance. Surely, this is a great sin.4:3 And if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly with the orphan girls, then marry (other) women of your choice, two or three, or four; but if you fear that you shall not be able to deal justly (with them), then only one or (the captives and the slaves) that your right hands possess. That is nearer to prevent you from doing injustice.4:4 And give to the women (whom you marry) their Mahr (obligatory bridal-money given by the husband to his wife at the time of marriage) with a good heart; but if they, of their own good pleasure, remit any part of it to you, take it and enjoy it without fear of any harm (as Allah has made it lawful).4:5 And give not unto the foolish your property which Allah has made a means of support for you, but feed and clothe them therewith, and speak to them words of kindness and justice.4:6 And try orphans (as regards their intelligence) until they reach the age of marriage; if then you find sound judgment in them, release their property to them, but consume it not wastefully and hastily fearing that they should grow up, and whoever (amongst guardians) is rich, he should take no wages, but if he is poor, let him have for himself what is just and reasonable (according to his labour). And when you release their property to them, take witnesses in their presence; and Allah is All-Sufficient in taking account.4:7 There is a share for men from what is left by parents and those nearest related, and there is a share for women from what is left by parents and those nearest related, whether the property be small or large - a legal share.4:8 And when the relatives and the orphans and Al-Masakin (the poor) are present at the time of division, give them out of the property, and speak to them words of kindness and justice.4:9 And let those (executors and guardians) have the same fear in their minds as they would have for their own if they had left weak offspring behind. So let them fear Allah and speak right words.4:10 Verily, those who unjustly eat up the property of orphans, they eat up only a fire into their bellies, and they will be burnt in the blazing Fire! Surah An- Naml27:56 So We saved him and his family, except his wife; We destined her to be of those who remained behind.27:57 And We rained down on them a rain (of stones). So evil was the rain of those who were warned.27:58 Say (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم): "Praise and thanks be to Allah, and peace be on His slaves whom He has chosen (for His Message)! Is Allah better, or (all) that you ascribe as partners (to Him)?"27:59 Is not He (better than your gods) Who created the heavens and the earth, and sends down for you water (rain) from the sky, whereby We cause to grow wonderful gardens full of beauty and delight? It is not in your ability to cause the growth of their trees. Is there any god with Allah? Nay, but they are a people who ascribe equals (to Him)!27:60 Is not He (better than your gods) Who has made the earth as a fixed abode, and has placed rivers in its midst, and has placed firm mountains therein, and has set a barrier between the two seas (of salt and sweet water)? Is there any god with Allah? Nay, but most of them know not.27:61 Is not He (better than your gods) Who responds to the distressed one when he calls on Him, and Who removes the evil, and makes you inheritors of the earth, generations after generations? Is there any god with Allah? Little is that you remember!27:62 Is not He (better than your gods) Who guides you in the darkness of the land and the sea, and Who sends the winds as heralds of glad tidings, going before His Mercy (rain)? Is there any god with Allah? High Exalted be Allah above all that they associate as partners (to Him)!27:63 Is not He (better than your gods) Who originates creation, and shall thereafter repeat it, and Who provides for you from heaven and earth? Is there any god with Allah? Say, "Bring forth your proofs, if you are truthful."27:64 Say: "None in the heavens and the earth knows the unseen except Allah, nor can they perceive when they shall be resurrected."27:65 Nay, but their knowledge fails as to the Hereafter, nay, they are in doubt about it, nay, they are blind about it.27:66 And those who disbelieve say: "When we have become dust, we and our fathers, shall we really be brought forth (again)?27:67 Indeed, We were promised this, we and our fathers before (us); this is nothing but the tales of ancients."27:68 Say (to them): "Travel in the land and see how has been the end of the criminals (those who denied Allah's Messengers and disobeyed Allah)."27:69 And grieve you not over them, nor be straitened (in distress) because of what they plot.27:70 And they say: "When (will) this promise (come to pass) if you are truthful?"27:71 Say: "Perhaps that which you wish to hasten on, may be close behind you.27:72 "Verily, your Lord is full of Grace for mankind, yet most of them do not give thanks."27:73 And verily, your Lord knows what their breasts conceal and what they reveal.27:74 And there is nothing hidden in the heaven and the earth but it is in a Clear Book (Al-Lauh Al-Mahfuz).27:75 Verily, this Qur'an narrates to the Children of Israel most of that about which they differ.27:76 And truly, it (this Qur'an) is a guide and a mercy to the believers.27:77 Verily, your Lord will decide between them by His Judgment. And He is the All-Mighty, the All-Knowing.27:78 So put your trust in Allah; surely, you (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) are on manifest truth.27:79 Verily, you cannot make the dead to hear nor can you make the deaf to hear the call, when they flee, turning their backs.27:80 Nor can you guide the blind out of their error. You can only make to hear those who believe in Our Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), and who have submitted (as Muslims).27:81 And when the Word (of torment) is fulfilled against them, We shall bring out from the earth a beast to them, which will speak to them, because mankind believed not with certainty in Our Ayat.27:82 And (remember) the Day when We shall gather out of every nation a troop of those who denied Our Ayat, and they shall be set in array (before their Lord for punishment).27:83 Till, when they come (before their Lord), He will say: "Did you deny My Ayat whereas you comprehended them not in knowledge, or what was it that you used to do?"27:84 And the Word (of torment) will be fulfilled against them, because they have done wrong, and they will be unable to speak (in order to defend themselves).27:85 See they not that We have made the night for them to rest therein, and the day sight-giving? Verily, in this are Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) for the people who believe.27:86 And (remember) the Day on which the Trumpet will be blown, and all who are in the heavens and all who are on the earth will be terrified except him whom Allah will (exempt). And all shall come to Him humbled.27:87 And you will see the mountains, and think them solid, but they shall pass away as the passing away of the clouds. The Work of Allah, Who perfected all things, verily! He is Well-Acquainted with what you do.27:88 Whoever brings a good deed (i.e. belief in the Oneness of Allah along with every act of obedience to Allah and His Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم), will have better than its worth; and they will be safe from the terror on that Day.27:89 And whoever brings an evil deed, they will be thrown down on their faces in the Fire (Hell). (It will be said to them): "Are you being recompensed anything except what you used to do?"27:90 I (Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم) have been commanded only to worship the Lord of this city (Makkah), Him Who has sanctified it and to Whom belongs all things. And I am commanded to be of the Muslims (those who submit to Allah's Will),27:91 And to recite the Qur'an. And whoever receives guidance, receives it for the good of his own self; and whoever goes astray, say (to him): "I am only one of the warners."27:92 And say (O Muhammad صلى الله عليه وسلم): "All the praises and thanks be to Allah. He will show you His Ayat (signs, lessons, proofs, verses, etc.), and you shall recognize them. And your Lord is not unaware of what you do."27:93 And say: "All the praises and thanks be to Allah. He will show you His Ayat, and you shall recognize them. And your Lord is not unaware of what you do."

Don't Mess With the Dress

We live in a world where judgment feels harshest when it comes to following Allah, yet calling out Satan—who openly vowed to deceive us—feels softer, even sensitive to defend against. We’re so quick to perceive belief as “vague,” ready to cling to anything that contradicts it. Allah tells us not only He, but Paradise itself hears our prayers—yet we doubt this easily, while believing completely in unseen signals like Wi-Fi and invisible servers. Contradicting the concept of believing in the unseen.&nbsp;Going back in history, Allah introduced the concept of faith after the people of Adam, as shown in The Quran 20:120-127“Then Shaytan whispered to him…” Satan revealed plainly that jealousy and resentment fueled his influence. Despite knowing we have no control over the beginning of time, why life is the way it is, or answers to the deepest questions, we do have control over our free will—a divine right that Satan works tirelessly to misuse in the most hidden ways, making us forget life’s fleeting reality. Allah Himself calls Satan the chief deceiver. Yet when it comes to believing that, we get intimidated. We fear standing against disbelief, even though Allah represents life’s creation, its nourishment, and its entire reliance. Even in parenting, Allah places the metaphor of reliance beautifully: the father, the source of implantation, often gets less recognition than the mother who provides nourishment—but both are essential and equal in Allah’s design. Still, Satan seeks to break that unity born from Adam and Eve: the love, peace, and shared purpose that mirrors faith itself.So the battle of faith has always been deeply individual. But Satan made it look like we need a massive army protocol to fight him Because he Allah revealed his system with the wisdom of his 99 names, Satan the chief deceiver, used that advantage against Adam and Eve.&nbsp; So truly the battle is internal and evolved over time. His method is to spot vulnerability in hearts desperate enough to deny truth: anyone willing to lie, to jeopardize accountability, and in turn, lose their own record. A contradictive type of behavior that benefits his intent, but has always been detrimental in all ways.&nbsp;Allah, by contrast, honors the concept of nourishment and mercy: He calls out to the “mother of towns,” symbolizing the spiritual bond and sustenance He entrusted us to uphold. Meanwhile, Satan gathers his “army” to quietly infiltrate that system. The mother is the heart of the home; the kitchen is the heart of the house. This reflects the dynamic concept of nourishing procreation, where both parents contribute and strive to sustain the vital system of life. So if our vulnerability pushes us to seek control instead of truth, we lose the reliance on Allah that keeps Satan at bay.Even the simple daily acts we sometimes doubt or see as interruptions—wudu, prayer, guarding our intentions, being mindful of what we consume, and the truth we choose to acknowledge—these are all part of the spiritual armor Allah gifts us, shaping our individuality. We’re not meant to build armies against each other. By default, we are created pure, like newborns, but Satan intervenes to corrupt that innocence. The unnecessary huddles, factions, and harmful conduct create negativity, while Allah promises that His system sends us the floodlight of angels to drive that negativity away—causing those who’ve fallen vulnerable to Satan’s influence to act out of desperation and ultimately embarrass themselves.As Allah shows in 15:39 (Muhsin Khan):“(Iblis) said: ‘O my Lord! Because You misled me, I shall indeed adorn the path of error for them (mankind) on the earth, and I shall mislead them all.’” His darkness thrives on breaking light, especially the light brought by angels. His arrogance was born out of fearing that Allah didn’t accept him—and so, he projects his resentment onto us, even targeting the mother’s honored role in family and community, portraying her as negative and deceitful. This mirrors the bitterness he’s carried from the moment he was created.Because Satan doesn’t care about us; he openly mocks us and tries to reflect that immaturity onto life’s most serious realities. Allah doesn’t seek to harm or control people—but His system is built strong because Satan is actively trying to harm and control humanity. Ultimately, Allah refers to Mecca as the mother of towns because this holy land holds the witnesses, the purity, and the light needed for the town’s sanctity, along with the precincts that prove Allah’s sufficient protection—just like the wisdom drawn from the story of the elephants in Surah Al-Fil. Surah Al-Fil tells the story of a mighty army, equipped with elephants, marching toward the Kaaba to destroy it. To any observer at the time, this army seemed invincible—overwhelming in power and unstoppable in its intention. Yet Allah, without asking the people to fight or raise an army in defense, sent flocks of birds carrying stones of baked clay, effortlessly defeating the aggressors and protecting His sacred house. Surah Al-Fil is a call to recognize where true power lies: not in arrogance, not in armies, but in humble faith, trust, and submission to the One who controls all things. And it’s a call to remember that just as Allah protected His house from destruction, He insures His guidance and the Quran protect our hearts and souls—when we turn to Him sincerely, sufficing us from the control Satan seeks.&nbsp; 38:60 They will say (The followers of the misleaders) : "Nay, you (too)! No welcome for you! It is you (leaders) who brought this upon us (misery), so evil is this place to stay in!"38:61 They will say: "Our Lord! Whoever brought this upon us, add to him a double torment in the Fire!"38:62 And they will say: "What has happened to us that we do not see men whom we used to count among the bad ones?"38:63 Did we take them as an object of mockery, or have (our) eyes failed to perceive them?"38:64 Verily, that is the very truth — the mutual dispute of the people of the Fire!38:65 Say (O Muhammad ﷺ): "I am only a warner and there is no Ilah (god) except Allah, the One, the Irresistible,38:66 The Lord of the heavens and the earth and all that is between them, the All-Mighty, the Oft-Forgiving."38:67 Say: "That (this Qur’an) is a great news," 7:180 And (all) the Most Beautiful Names belong to Allah, so call on Him by them, and leave the company of those who belie or deny (or utter impious speech against) His Names. They will be requited for what they used to do.7:181 And of those whom We have created, there is a community who guides (others) with the truth, and establishes justice therewith.7:182 Those who reject Our Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), We shall gradually seize them with punishment in ways they perceive not.7:183 And I respite them; certainly My Plan is strong.7:184 Do they not reflect? There is no madness in their companion (Muhammad SAW). He is but a plain warner.7:185 Do they not look in the dominion of the heavens and the earth and all things that Allah has created, and that it may be that their own term is drawing near? In what message after this will they then believe?7:186 Whomsoever Allah sends astray, none can guide him; and He lets them wander blindly in their transgressions.7:187 They ask you (O Muhammad SAW) about the Hour — when will be its appointed time? Say: "The knowledge thereof is with my Lord (Alone). None can reveal its time but He. Heavy is its burden through the heavens and the earth. It shall not come upon you except all of a sudden." They ask you as if you have a good knowledge of it. Say: "The knowledge thereof is with Allah (Alone), but most of mankind know not."7:188 Say (O Muhammad SAW): "I possess no power of benefit or hurt to myself except as Allah wills. If I had the knowledge of the unseen, I should have secured for myself an abundance of wealth, and no evil should have touched me. I am but a warner, and a bringer of glad tidings unto people who believe."7:189 It is He Who has created you from a single person (Adam), and (then) He has created from him his wife [Hawwa (Eve)], in order that he might enjoy the pleasure of living with her. When he had sexual relation with her, she became pregnant and she carried it about lightly. Then, when it became heavy, they both invoked Allah, their Lord (saying): "If You give us a Salih (good in every aspect) child, we shall indeed be among the grateful."7:190 But when He gave them a Salih (good in every aspect) child, they ascribed partners to Him (Allah) in that which He has given to them. High be Allah, Exalted above all that they ascribe as partners to Him.7:191 Do they attribute as partners to Allah those who created nothing but they themselves are created?7:192 No help can they give them, nor can they help themselves.7:193 And if you call them to guidance, they follow you not. It is the same for you whether you call them or you keep silent.7:194 Verily, those whom you call upon besides Allah are slaves like you. So call upon them and let them answer you if you are truthful.7:195 Have they feet wherewith they walk? Or have they hands wherewith they hold? Or have they eyes wherewith they see? Or have they ears wherewith they hear? Say (O Muhammad SAW): "Call your (so-called) partners (of Allah) and then plot against me, and give me no respite!7:196 "Verily, my Wali (Protector, Supporter, and Helper) is Allah Who has revealed the Book (the Qur'an), and He protects (supports and helps) the righteous.7:197 "And those whom you call upon besides Him (Allah) cannot help you nor can they help themselves."7:198 And if you call them to guidance, they hear not and you will see them looking at you, yet they see not.7:199 Show forgiveness, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the foolish (i.e. don't punish them).7:200 And if an evil whisper comes to you from Shaitan (Satan), then seek refuge with Allah. Verily, He is All-Hearer, All-Knower.7:201 Verily, those who are Al-Muttaqun (the pious), when an evil thought comes to them from Shaitan (Satan), they remember (Allah), and (indeed) they then see (aright).7:202 But (as for) their (the devils') brothers (the devils’ brothers from mankind) they (the devils) plunge them deeper into error, and they never stop short.7:203 And if you (O Muhammad SAW) do not bring them a miracle (according to their proposal), they say: "Why have you not brought it?" Say: "I but follow what is revealed to me from my Lord. This (the Qur'an) is nothing but evidences from your Lord, and a guidance and a mercy for a people who believe."7:204 So, when the Qur'an is recited, listen to it, and be silent that you may receive mercy.7:205 And remember your Lord within yourself, humbly and with fear and without loudness in words in the mornings and in the afternoons and be not of those who are neglectful.7:206 Surely, those who are with your Lord (angels) are never too proud to perform acts of worship to Him, but they glorify His Praise and fall down before Him in prostration.

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Handling the Sacred Bond

Jargon Jam

Center Your Attention

Vice or Verse

Don't Mess With the Dress

A Cloture of Birds in Motion: Guiding Elephants