OBSTACLES TO ACCEPTING THE TRUTH

OBSTACLES TO ACCEPTING THE TRUTH You may meet people who aren’t particularly interested in dhikr (remembrance) or prayer, and who shy away from words like piety and devotion. Yet, they would eagerly give long speeches on topics like “Islam as the best way of life” or “Islam as the solution to all problems, capable of establishing peace in the world.” Similarly, those who dwell in superficial thought, whose minds are caught up in issues stirred up by professional leaders and who are preoccupied with political unrest, will find no interest in the deep truths of religion. They might casually dismiss such matters as “Sufism,” “personal preference,” or “extremism.” Another situation occurs when remnants of an Islamic movement in decline are regarded as the complete and final form of Islam. Such individuals cannot be swayed by any interpretation of Islam that offers a deeper and broader view of religious practice. Their focus remains on constructing mosques and madrasa (Islamic seminaries), or they may associate themselves with a khanqah (spiritual retreat) and believe they have fully met their religious duties. This does not mean that these efforts are wrong. If someone honestly assesses their abilities and circumstances, determines they can only do so much, and dedicates themselves fully to it, then in my view, they are better than someone who shows intense restlessness to promote Islam socially or internationally