Spirit of Islam, Nov-Dec 2022

FROM THE EDITOR-IN-CHIEF’S DESK Prof Farida Khanam is an author, editor, translator, public speaker and former professor of Islamic Studies at Jamia Millia Islamia, New Delhi. Among her books are ‘A Simple Guide to Islam’ and ‘A Study of World’s Major Religions’. She has translated into English many books authored by Maulana Wahiduddin Khan. Currently the chairperson of CPS International, she is a regular contributor of articles to various publications. Prof Khanam has edited Maulana’s English translation of the Quran and has also translated his Urdu commentary on the Quran into English. She can be reached at spiritofislamperiodical@gmail.com REALIZE YOUR POTENTIAL H ELEN KELLER (1880–1968) famously said, “Character cannot be developed in ease and quiet. Only through experience of trial and suffering can the soul be strengthened, ambition inspired, and success achieved.” Keller was blind and deaf from early childhood, but she did not let this become an impediment in the way of her development and went on to become a renowned American author and educator. The example set by Keller serves as a great inspiration. It confirms the belief that life is a gift from God. According to Islamic teachings, God created life so that human beings fulfill a purpose. Human beings have been granted freedom in this world for a temporary period. Those who shall rightfully use this freedom in the pre-death world shall pass this test and become eligible for being inhabited in the eternal and perfect world of Paradise. The question is why did God decide to put man through such a trial? This is because God has created man with extraordinary qualities but, this was at a potential level. If actualized, these special qualities are enough to make man surpass all obstacles and become the best version of himself. But when can this happen? It is possible only when man is ready to give up all distractions and fully dedicate himself to pursue his intellectual development.