THE WORD OF GOD

The remedy for ignorance is asking questions. (Prophet Muhammad) The spirit of enquiry is the hallmark of an open society and the above saying of the Prophet aptly illustrates this principle. A culture of curiosity and open-mindedness will foster development in any society by motivating its members to learn enthusiastically and enrich their knowledge. This is because awareness of one’s ignorance is half of knowledge, as it becomes a stepping-stone to seeking and finding answers. A questioning mind is like a flowing river that is replenished with fresh thoughts and ideas and continues on its journey. YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED According to Islam, what is the response that is expected of us in the face of afflictions such as the present pandemic? We must never forget that this world is meant for test. We are placed on earth to undergo a test. The Quran says: We shall certainly test you with fear and hunger, and loss of property, lives and crops. Give good news to those who endure with fortitude. (2: 155) When natural calamities strike human beings, they are reminded that many people in the past had suffered and had their faith tested. The present-day people, too, will be tried and tested in their lives. A problem-free world does not exist. The present world is part of the divine test. We will find ourselves in certain situations to test us. It is our response that is of paramount importance. As for the current pandemic, we must remember a Hadith of the Prophet Muhammad: There is no disease that God has sent down, except that He has also sent down its treatment. (Sahih al-Bukhari) It means we should never despair of health hazards. There are remedies for every health problem. We should keep investigating nature to find out a cure for diseases while exercising patience. The Quran says: Truly, those who persevere patiently will be requited without measure. (39: 10) There appears to be some kind of hesitation and reservation in people about the vaccination against Coronavirus. What does Islam say about using novel methods to treat an illness? The Prophet is reported to have said: Treat with the Indian incense (Indian Aloeswood), for it has healing for seven diseases.