When a person asked the Prophet (PBUH), “O Messenger of Allah! What is Islam?” An individual, appearing in human form as Gabriel, came and asked, “O Messenger of Allah! What is Islam?” Now, see what the Prophet (PBUH) replied. He said, “Islam is to bear witness that there is no god but Allah and Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, to establish prayers, to give Zakat, to observe fasting during the month of Ramadan, and to perform Hajj if one can.” This clearly indicates that not all obligations apply to everyone. Zakat is not obligatory for everyone; fasting is not obligatory for everyone; and Hajj is not obligatory for everyone. These are obligatory on those who can afford them. Faith, prayers, and fasting are obligatory for everyone. Faith is a 24-hour obligation, prayers are obligatory five times a day, and fasting is obligatory for one month in a year, with exceptions for the sick and travelers.
Now, let’s move on to the essence of Islam. A person asked, “O Messenger of Allah! What is the ultimate stage of Islam?” The Prophet (PBUH) responded beautifully, saying, “Islam is to speak good, feed others, and spread greetings of peace.” SubhanAllah, what a beautiful expression of Islam! To feed someone when a needy person cannot afford a meal, and to speak kindly, removing bitterness from people’s lives, and engaging in pleasant conversations, avoiding complaints, accusations, and insults—this is Islam. Islam is not known by donning a turban or by maintaining a beard; it is far beyond appearances.
To explain further, Hazrat Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) issued a command, saying, “If you see someone praying at night, do not assume he has achieved greatness. True greatness lies in not causing harm or sorrow to anyone.” This is the essence of Islam. Every year, performing Hajj and Umrah is commendable. It pleases Allah, not because of the perfection of worship but due to the perfection of character. Our environment is filled with acts of worship, and morality prevails. Therefore, performing Hajj or Umrah every year is excellent. It is not about perfection in worship but perfection in character.
Now, my Lord has said that Islam is to speak sweetly and to be a well-mannered human being. If someone cannot provide benefit to others and does not cause harm, that person does not know Islam. Islam is about being the best of people. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The best among you is the one who does not cause harm to others and brings benefits to people.” This statement is not limited to Muslims; it encompasses all of humanity. Every person, Muslim or non-Muslim, who contributes to knowledge and alleviates suffering without causing harm, is the best among people.
The emphasis on gratitude for Allah’s immense favor is vital when turning to the Quran. The unusual aspect arises in the mind about what steps to take to understand it fully. The guidance to read the Quran as a layman did initially, without imposing philosophical or logical inclinations, aligns with the teachings of the Quran.
The subsequent stages of contemplating the Quran involve considering the laws that exist and understanding them. Differences in legal matters may emerge, but the essence remains unchanged. While detailed information can create confusion, it is essential not to be overly concerned about legal intricacies.
In conclusion, the approach to understanding the Quran begins with a humble and sincere reading, aligning with the initial stages of Islam. Grasping the Arabic language, appreciating its linguistic nuances, and progressing to comprehend the fundamental teachings pave the way for a meaningful connection with the Holy Quran. The journey is not without its challenges, but with sincerity, devotion, and humility, one can navigate the complexities and unlock the profound wisdom encapsulated in the Quranic verses.