YOUR QUESTIONS ANSWERED

How important is the process of reflection in the life of a believer? Abu Sulayman al-Darani (d. 215 AH), a notable Sufi scholar of the 3rd century AH, said: “When I leave my house, there is nothing my eyes fall upon except that I see in it a blessing from God upon me, and a lesson for reflection.” (Tafsir Ibn Kathir, Vol. 2, p. 184) Hasan al-Basri (21–110 AH), an influential early Islamic scholar, jurist, and Hadith expert said: “Reflecting for one moment is better than standing in prayer for the entire night.” (Hilyat al-Awliya by Abu Nu‘aym, Vol. 6, p. 271) Sufyan ibn Uyaynah (107–198 AH), a prominent Hadith scholar and jurist, said: “Reflection is a light that enters the heart.” He would often recite this verse: “When a person possesses the habit of reflection, then in everything there is a lesson for him.” (Hilyat al-Awliya by Abu Nu‘aym, Vol. 7, p. 306) It is reported in one narration that Prophet Jesus, son of Mary, said: “Blessed is the one whose speech is remembrance of God, whose silence is reflection, and whose gaze is a source of insight.” (Tarikh Dimashq by Ibn ‘Asakir, Vol. 68, p. 43) The true essence of religion lies in contemplation and reflection. These are not merely outward rituals or routine acts; they are living, conscious processes that arise from a deep awareness of God. This is the practice through which a person develops modesty and comes to appreciate looking upon others with well-wishing. When the reality of God is unveiled to someone—with all its majesty and perfection—a new light dawns in their mind. Their soul is awakened by divine radiance. Such a person is transformed inwardly and outwardly. Whether they speak or remain silent, look or listen, walk or pause; everything becomes filled with divine light. For them, the whole world becomes a banquet of spiritual sustenance spread out by the Lord. This is the kind of person who truly deserves to be called a believer in God. They are the ones whose inner life is rich with remembrance of God and whose outer life is shaped by reflection. They live with presence, humility, and constant awareness of the higher reality. What is Righteousness? The Quran repeatedly emphasizes the importance of leading a righteous life and performing good deeds. For example, it states: “Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he is a believer, We will surely cause him to live a good life, and We will surely give them their reward [in the Hereafter] according to the best of what they used to do.” (16: 97) Good conduct applies to every area of human life. According to Islamic teachings, a person is expected to live in such a way that all their actions reflect ethical behaviour. From personal life at home to interactions in the wider world, none of their actions should fall short of this standard. In this sense, Islam can be understood as a comprehensive guide to ethical living. Its principles are meant to clarify what kind of behaviour is appropriate in various situations and what is not.