YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED
Spirit of Islam, July-August 2025, p. 47
By Maulana Wahiduddin Khan
Maulana Wahiduddin Khan is named as the default author of the periodical; a piece that carries another writer’s byline is credited to that writer.
YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED 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. How can we save ourselves from frustration? Saving oneself from frustration involves cultivating patience and maintaining a positive mindset. The Quran emphasizes that frustration is often a temporary state, and one can manage it by recognizing that problems are also temporary. One effective approach is to avoid letting external provocations affect you. By controlling your reactions and focusing on constructive actions, you can preserve your energy and time. The principle of patience is central here; it allows you to navigate difficulties without being emotionally overwhelmed. In the Quran (39: 10), it is stated: ‘Truly, those who persevere patiently will be requited without measure.’ This verse highlights the importance of patience, suggesting that enduring hardships with a calm demeanor brings about divine reward. Furthermore, recognizing that your emotions are under your control can help you remain focused on your goals, rather than being distracted by negative experiences or provocations. How should a believer look at old age? It is mentioned in the Hadith that it is a matter of regret if a man reaches the age of sixty but fails to enter Paradise. (Sahih al-Bukhari) Age here is not the issue, but rather the deep reality beyond. The deep reality is that the greater the age, the more the experience. Yet in spite of more experience, one who does not do acts deserving of Paradise is undoubtedly ill-fated, in that he may be brought to the gate of Paradise yet will fail to go through it.

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