My Time

What sacrifices have you made in life?

Some of them are personal which can’t be shared, ie those in the name of God, and you want the rewards in the Hereafter to be saved from hell fire. Whenever I would say that I’m doing this (a good deed) so I’m not thrown into Jahannum (hell fire), my late husband would eye me, and remark that I must have done something really evil that I feel so afraid. I would be irked beyond words at his assumption, and would be mad at him for thinking badly of me.

I can mention the recent sacrifice I’m making of my time. My granddaughter Maryam wants me to play all the time with her. It does become irksome, cause I can’t do anything when she is awake. She dodges my footsteps, climbing my bed covered with food (she hates to wear a bib), running her dirty hands over my face. I can’t talk to anyone except her. If I talk to her mother, she cries to make me stop. If my daughter phones, I can’t talk. I can only pay attention to her royal highness.

Of course there is an instant reward instead of waiting for the hereafter. Her love for me, which is most gratifying. Her father bought a stool in the form of a lion for her. No one was allowed to sit on it by Maryam. Her Mom couldn’t use it as a foot stool. She would start crying the minute anyone touched it. It was hers’ alone. I sat on it, and she was dancing around me to the amazement of her parents.

Back

Reached here yesterday at three from Peshawar. It was a tiring journey. Had an enthusiastic welcome from my one year old granddaughter Maryam. Son was holding her when I exited through the door. At first she didn’t recognize me. I realized it soon enough, and removed my mask. After that she was inseparable from me, even if I needed to do something. At home she wouldn’t leave me for a minute probably worried that I may disappear again.

She hadn’t seen me since ninth December. She, and her parents had gone to Corpus Christi. In between my daughter came to visit me while on her way to Mecca, Saudi Arabia. She was going for Umrah. The day before she was leaving, she persuaded me to go with her. I had a hairline fracture, so wasn’t very sure in undertaking the journey. At the last minute I applied for a visa. Within half an hour got it, and bought an airline ticket.

Allah makes it easy when you think of visiting Mecca, and Madina. I had never traveled first class. Have always traveled economy, but all the way I was bumped to first class. Had a wonderful experience.

I had a one way ticket which is expensive when bought a day before traveling. It was the beginning of holiday time. Had to wait in Pakistan for the prices to go down. It wasn’t happening so bought the return ticket to reach home.

Anniversary

A decade is gone

Gone down in mist

Where eyes can’t see

And sound doesn’t exist

You’re asleep for centuries to last

Where everyone goes

Forever lost

(Sheen-August 2, 2022)

Today is the tenth anniversary of my husband’s death. The Mercy of Allah on him. Ameen.

Mask

Wish the mask wasn’t removed from certain faces

The harsh reality is harder to bear

I’m too frail to cope, and no know naught what to do

O Allah don’t let me fall into despair

(Sheen, Nov 2021)

Day Sixty One (A Journey with Quran)

I don’t really know the Arabic language, except for repetitive words, duas, prayers, or those Surahs (I have learnt by heart). Like those people who read the Quran with translation, and whose mother language is not Arabic, I daily read my copy of the Quran in Urdu language, though my mother tongue is Pushto.

A reader pointed out that that I’m not giving my own words (or thoughts) on the translation. Whereas the translation is explicit, what can I write beside it. The name of the translator is always at the end of the ten verses I copy.

My aim was (and is) to bring the Message of the Quran to those who have not read it. After all it’s addressed to all the people of the world.

Surah Al Maidah continues: Ayats 51–60.

All you who believe! Don’t take Jews and Christians as your closest allies, for they’re only the close allies of each other. Whoever among you turns to them (for alliances, in place of a believer,) is one of them, for Allah doesn’t guide corrupt people. [51]

Do you see those who have a sickness in their hearts? They run eagerly to them after exclaiming, “We’re afraid that changing times might bring disaster down upon us!” Allah will grant a victory or a decisive result, as He wills, and then they’ll be sorry for what they’ve been hiding within themselves. [52]

Then the believers will be the ones to say, “Are these (hypocrites) the same ones who swore their strongest oaths by Allah that they were on your side?” Whatever they do is of no use, and they’re going to be the ones who will lose. [53]

All you who believe! Whoever among you falls away (from following) his (Islamic) way of life should know that Allah will soon produce a people whom He will love – and who will love Him back! They’ll be easygoing with other believers, yet stern against the faithless, striving in Allah’s way and paying no mind to all the blame that accusers may heap upon them. That’s Allah’s favor, which He grants to whomsoever He wills, and Allah embraces all things and is full of knowledge. [54]

Your (true) closest allies are Allah, His Messenger and those who believe. They’re the ones who establish prayer, give in charity and who bow down (in sincere worship). [55]

Whoever turns towards Allah, His Messenger and the believers – that’s the fellowship of Allah – and they shall be victorious! [56]

All you who believe! Don’t take those who mock and belittle your way of life as best friends, whether from among those who received a scripture before you or from among those who reject (the truth). Be mindful of Allah if you’re true believers. [57]

When you announce your call to prayer, they mock and belittle it, for they’re a people who have no understanding. [58]

Say to them, “You Followers of Earlier Revelation, are you ridiculing us for no other reason than that we believe in Allah and in the revelation that came down to us, as well as in the revelations that came before us? (It may just be) that most of you are rebellious (against Allah).” [59]

Say to them, “Should I tell you about something worse than this (religion that you’re ridiculing), and for which Allah took (your ancestors) to task? Those who had Allah’s curse and wrath drawn over them, some of whom were like apes and pigs, and they were the servants of falsehood. They’re much worse in status and that much farther astray from the even path!” [60]

Translation: Yahiya Emerick

Background on Ayats 51–53

In his first days in Medina, the Prophet had concluded treaties of mutual security with the three Jewish tribes of the city. After some months it was learned that the Banu Qurayzah Jews were playing both sides of the fence, so to speak. While publicly appearing to be friendly with the Muslims, they had also invited a delegation of Meccan leaders to a secret summit in their fortress just outside Medina proper. A group of Muslim riders was sent out to turn the Meccan delegation back, while the senior companions debated what to do about this obvious betrayal. The Muslim patrol was unable to intercept the Meccans, and thus they got through. This particular passage concerns the case of two men who were present among the Muslims as they debated what to do, and it concerns their alliances with the Jews of Medina. The first man, ‘Ubadah ibn as-Samat, said, “Messenger of Allah, I have many Jewish allies. They appear to be ascendant, but I will turn to Allah and His Messenger and abandon the protection of the Jews. I will look for refuge in Allah and in His Messenger.” Then the hypocrite, ‘Abdullah ibn Ubayy, told Muhammad, “I’m a man who’s afraid that changing times might bring disaster down upon us. I will keep the Jews as my allies.” Muhammad replied, “O Father of Hibab, whatever protection you get from the Jews that exceeds what ‘Ubadah ibn as-Samat had is only for your own sake.” ‘Abdullah ibn Ubayy answered, “Then I accept that.” Then these three verses were revealed. No action was taken against the Banu Qurayzah other than to warn Muslims not to get too close with them, as verse 51 suggests. (Asbab ul-Nuzul, Ma’ariful Qur’an)

Background on Ayat 55

‘Abdullah ibn Salam, the Jewish rabbi who converted to Islam, along with his family, went to the Prophet one day and said, “Messenger of Allah. Our house is far from here. We have no place to sit and talk, for our people, having seen us believing in Allah and His Messenger, have disowned us and pledged not to talk to us or marry with us, and we’re finding it hard on us.” This verse was revealed in response. (Asbab ul-Nuzul)

Background on Ayats 58–59

For a time, whenever the Muslim call to prayer was announced in Medina, some Jews made it a point to tease the Muslims on their way to the mosque by mocking the prayer positions and laughing. This passage was revealed in response. (Asbab ul-Nuzul)

Background on Ayat 60

A number of Jews went to Muhammad (Peace be upon him), and asked him in which prophets he believed. He began his reply by reciting verse 2:285, which mentions that Muslims must accept all true prophets from Allah When Muhammad (Peace be upon him) then mentioned that he believed in Jesus, the Jews rejected his answer saying, “We swear to Allah that we’ve never heard of a more unfortunate religion both in this life and in the afterlife than yours, and we don’t know any religion more evil than yours.” This verse was revealed in response. (Asbab ul-Nuzul)

Day Sixty (A Journey with Quran)

Surah Al Maidah: Ayats 41–50

Messenger! Don’t lose yourself in grief over those who race each other into rejection, (whether it be from) among those (Arab hypocrites) who say, ‘We believe’ with their lips, but whose hearts are devoid of faith, or it be among the Jews (of Medina), who will listen to any lie and accept (any slander) told to them by people who never even met you! They switch words from their proper sequence, and they say, “If (Muhammad) gives you (what you like to hear,) then take it, but if not, then beware.” If Allah wants to put someone into utter turmoil, you can do nothing for them against Allah (and His plan). (The ones to whom He does that) are those whose hearts Allah has no desire to purify. They’ll have nothing but disgrace in this world, and in the next life they’ll have a severe penalty to pay. [41]

The (Jews of Medina) listen to lies and devour anything that’s been prohibited to them. If they do happen to come to you and ask you to solve their internal disputes, you can either render a verdict or decline to hear the case altogether. If you decline (to get involved), they can’t do any harm to you at all (in their spite). If you choose to adjudicate, then judge fairly between them, for Allah loves fair judges. [42]

However, why are they coming to you for decisions at all when they have their own Torah right there with them? It already contains Allah’s commandments. Yet, they turn away from it even still, for they’re not really all that faithful. [43]

We revealed the Torah, and it contained both guidance and enlightenment (within its pages). The prophets (of old), who surrendered (themselves to Allah’s command), used it to judge among the Jews, and the rabbis and legal scholars (also used it to render their judgments, as well). (They were charged with safeguarding and living by) the portion of Allah’s Book that was entrusted to them, and they witnessed to their duty. Therefore, (you Jews of Medina), don’t be afraid of (disappointing mere) people. Rather, be afraid of (disappointing) Me, and don’t sell My (revealed) verses for a petty price. If anyone judges by any other standard than what Allah has revealed, then they’re truly covering over (the truth). [44]

We decreed for them in (the Torah): “A life for a life, an eye for an eye, a nose for a nose, an ear for an ear, a tooth for a tooth, and a wound in exchange for a wound.” Now (this principle has been amended,) so if anyone chooses to refrain from retaliating, for (the sake of) charity, then it’s an act of atonement for himself. If anyone judges by any standard other than what Allah has revealed, then they’re truly wrongdoers. [45]

We sent Jesus, the son of Mary, following in their footsteps, to affirm the (truth of the) Torah that had come before him, and We gave him the Gospel, in which there was both guidance and enlightenment, as an affirmation of the Torah that had come before him. (The Gospel) was a source of guidance and also admonition for those who were mindful (of Allah). [46]

Therefore, let the people of the Gospel judge by what Allah revealed in it. If anyone judges by any standard other than what Allah has revealed, then they’re truly rebellious. [47]

Now We’ve sent the Book to you, (Muhammad), in all truthfulness, affirming the scriptures that came before you and safeguarding within it (the truth of the previous revelations), so judge between (the Jews and Christians) according to what Allah has revealed (to you). Don’t follow their petty whims and thus swerve away from the truth that’s come to you. We’ve given to each one of you (differing religious groups) a legal tradition and a clear method (for dealing with legal issues). If Allah had wanted, He could’ve made you all into one community, but He tests you in what He’s given you, so forge ahead as if you were racing towards everything virtuous. Your ultimate return is back to Allah, and He’s going to show you (the truth) of those things about which you argued. [48]

Therefore, judge between them according to what Allah has revealed, and don’t follow their petty whims. Be wary of them so they won’t seduce you away from what Allah has sent down to you. If they turn away (and ignore your rulings), then know that Allah wants to punish them for some of their sins. As it is, most people are disobedient! [49]

Are they looking for a (flawed) ruling (that’s similar to how people used to judge) in the ignorant (days before Islam?) For those who are convinced (of the truth in their hearts), who can be a better judge than Allah? [50]

Translation: Yahiya Emerick

Background to Ayat 41:

Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him)could not read or write Arabic, and he certainly did not know how to read or understand Hebrew. When the rabbis of Medina would quote from the Torah in their discussions with Muhammad, some of them would purposely leave out some lines as they translated from Hebrew into Arabic in order to keep some information secret. Jewish converts to Islam would often point this out to the Prophet. (See 2:100-103.) A Jewish man of Khaybar committed adultery, and based upon his high status his fellow Jews were reluctant to apply any harsh punishment to him. They resolved to send him to Muhammad for judgment on the pretence that if he ruled in favor of the flogging that the Qur’an called for [24:2], then he would be a secular leader in their eyes, and they could follow him. However, if he ruled in favor of stoning, as the Torah prescribed, then he was an actual force to be reckoned with, and the Jews must be on their guard against him. They then went to the Prophet who was sitting with some companions in the mosque and asked what they should do about this adulterer. Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) remained silent and either called for some rabbinical students to be brought to him or he himself accompanied them to one of their small yeshivas, or religious schools (the reports do not specify). The Prophet said to the Jewish scholars, “I appeal to you by God who revealed the Torah to Moses. What punishment does the Torah prescribe for an adulterer?” One of the rabbis answered, “They are rubbed with ash, defamed and whipped, and the defamation comes by placing both guilty parties back to back on a donkey that is led around the streets.” The others present affirmed their agreement, but the Prophet noticed that one man among them was keeping silent. The Prophet was told that his name was Ibn Surya, and then he appealed to him for his answer to the question, making him swear an oath to God to be truthful. When Ibn Surya replied that the actual punishment was death, the Prophet further questioned him, saying, “When is the first time in which you disobeyed the order of Almighty God?” Ibn Surya replied, “One of our ancient king’s relatives committed adultery, and the stoning was put off. Then a lesser noble also was found to have been adulterous, and the king wanted him stoned. However, his family objected, saying that they wouldn’t let their relative be stoned unless the king’s relative was stoned first. It was then that they compromised on the punishment among themselves (and lessened it).” The Prophet then asked a rabbi to read from the Torah about adultery, and the man began to read the appropriate section from a scroll, but he kept his finger over the verse calling for stoning and read the verses before and after it. The Jewish convert to Islam, ‘Abdullah ibn Salam, (also a former rabbi) informed the Prophet that the first rabbi had skipped a line, and he asked the man to remove his finger and read the verse. When he did, the Prophet then answered, “I judge by what is in the Torah.” Then he ruled that the adulterers were to be stoned. The adulterous couple was then taken out and stoned, but the Prophet did not take part in it. This verse was revealed concerning this and other similar affairs in which the Jews asked for the Prophet’s rulings on various issues. (Asbab ul-Nuzul)

Background to Ayat 48:

Four leading Jewish men of Medina, including K’ab ibn Asad and Shas ibn Qays, wanted to see if they could corrupt the Prophet away from being sincere in his religion. They went to him and told him that they were the leaders of the Jews, and if they converted then all the Jews would follow them. Their only requirement was that he render a biased judgment in favor of them in a dispute they had with some men of their community. This verse was revealed concerning this incident. (Asbab ul-Nuzul)

Day Fifty Seven (A Journey with Quran)

Surah Al Maidah: Ayats 11–20

All you who believe! Remember the favor of Allah that He bestowed upon you when certain people made plans to move their hands against you, but He restrained their hands from ever reaching you. Therefore, be mindful of Allah, and the believers should trust in Allah. [11]

And so it was that Allah made a covenant with the Children of Israel. We appointed twelve scouts from among them (to go into the land of Canaan to gather intelligence in preparation for their entry). Allah had already told (the Children of Israel), “I’ll be with you as long as you establish regular prayer, give in charity, believe in My messengers, respect them, and loan to Allah a beautiful loan. Indeed, I‘ll erase your shortcomings and admit you into gardens beneath which rivers flow. If any of you cover over (your ability to have faith) after this, then he’s truly wandered far from the even path.” [12]

However, because (the Children of Israel) broke their agreement, We cursed them and allowed their hearts to grow hard. (They manipulated the words of revelation) by rearranging them from their (proper) places, and they forgot a good part of the message that was sent to them. Even still you’ll find many of them engaged in new trickery, but forgive them and try to overlook (their shortcomings), for Allah loves those who are good. [13]

We also took a covenant from those who call themselves Christians, but they forgot most of the message that was sent to them. That’s why We’ve let them become disunited in mutual envy and hatred of each other, even until the Day of Assembly. Allah will soon inform them (of the true meaning) of that in which they were engaged. [14]

Followers of Earlier Revelation! Our Messenger has come to you revealing many things that you used to hide in (your religious) scriptures and passing over many (practices of the past that are now unnecessary). A (new) light and a clear scripture have come to you from Allah. [15]

With these Allah will guide any who seek His good pleasure towards the pathways of peace and safety. Furthermore, He’ll lead them out of darkness and into a light, by His will, and lead them to a straight path. [16]

Those who say that God is Jesus, the Messiah, the son of Mary, are covering over (the real truth). Say to them, “Who has the power to hold back Allah if He wanted to destroy the Messiah, the son of Mary, his mother and everyone else on earth? To Allah belongs the control of the heavens and the earth and everything in between. He creates whatever He wants, for Allah has power over all things.” [17]

The Jews and the Christians say, “We’re the sons of God, and He loves us (above all others).” Then ask them, “So, why will He punish you for your sins (if you don’t repent of them)? By no means! You’re only mortals from among the (many peoples) that He’s created. He forgives whomever He wants, and He punishes whomever He wants. The control of the heavens and the earth and all that’s in between them belongs to Allah, and back to Him is the final destination.” [18]

Followers of Earlier Revelation! Now Our Messenger has come to you making (things) clear for you after a pause in (the chain of) Our messengers. That way you won’t be able to say, “No bearer (of good news) or warner ever came to us!” Now a bearer (of good news) and a warner has come to you, and Allah has power over all things. [19]

Recall when Moses said to his people, “My people! Remember Allah’s favor towards you when He placed prophets within your midst, and when He placed you in charge (of your own destiny after you were enslaved in Egypt) and how He gave you what He hadn’t given to any other nation. [20]

Translation: Yahiya Emerick

Background on verse 11: A man named Ghawrath met with the leaders of the hostile tribes of the desert, namely the Muhareb and Ghatafan tribes, and asked if they wanted him to kill Prophet Muhammad, (Peace be upon him). They agreed and asked him how he could possibly accomplish that. He replied that he would take him by surprise. Ghawrath bided his time and kept an eye out for an opportunity to approach his prey. One day, he saw the Prophet sitting alone under the shade of a tree with his sword on his lap. He approached him and casually asked if he could have a look at the blade. The Prophet handed it to him, and Ghawrath drew it and immediately pointed it at the Prophet menacingly, though he couldn’t bring himself to thrust it in for the kill. Finally, he asked him, “Muhammad, aren’t you afraid?” He replied that he was not. Then Ghawrath said two or three times, “Who will protect you from me now?” The Prophet answered, “Allah will.” Ghawrath hesitated and then suddenly dropped the sword. The Prophet picked it up and called to his nearby companions. While the assailant was still sitting there, he narrated the incident and then Ghawrath was allowed to go free.

Some time later, Muhammad (Peace be upon him) was visiting the Jewish neighborhood of the Banu Nadir, seeking their assistance in settling a blood-money suit brought by a desert tribe against one of the companions who had killed two of their men. Ka’b ibn Ashraf, the Jewish leader, invited the Prophet into his courtyard and bade him and his companions to sit under the shade of a wall while he ostensibly went to order food to be made. Ka’b then retreated into another room and told a man named ‘Amr ibn Jahsh ibn Ka’b to drop a heavy stone from the roof down upon Muhammad (Peace be upon him)to kill him. Just before the man could do the deed, however, Angel Gabriel came and warned the Prophet, who promptly got up and left. This verse was revealed soon afterwards, referencing both incidents, and was meant to emphasize that Allah would protect this prophet until the end of his mission. (Asbab ul-Nuzul, Ibn Kathir)

Footnote:

Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) once said that in the intervening years between Jesus, and himself there were no prophets sent by God. (Bukhari, Muslim)

He said on another occasion that there would be no more prophets after me. Therefore any religions founded between the time of Jesus, and Muhammad, and then after the time of Muhammad (Peace be upon him) are not accepted as authentic expressions of divine revelation by Muslims.

DY Fifty Six (A Journey with Quran)

Today the fifth chapter of the Quran starts: Al Maidah which means The Banquet Table. This chapter was revealed over many months in Medina near the later days of the Prophet’s mission. Thus, it addresses a wide variety of issues, many of them reflecting the intense interfaith dialogues going on within the city. The memorable lines contained in the middle of verse three, which speak of the completing of Islam as a way of life, were revealed during the Prophet’s last pilgrimage in the year 632. Some believe that that passage may have been the last Qur’anic revelation the Prophet received. It was this passage that led many of Muhammad’s closest followers to conclude that the ministry of their beloved guide was coming to a close. The Prophet reportedly said of this chapter: “The chapter of the Banquet Table has been revealed as the last stage in the revelation of the Qur’an. Therefore, take what has been pronounced as lawful within it as lawful forever, and take what has been pronounced unlawful in it as unlawful forever.” (Ma’ariful Qur’an)

Surah Al Maidah: Ayats 1–10

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

All you who believe! Fulfill your obligations! You’re allowed (to eat) all domestic livestock, except for (the animals) that have been forbidden to you by mention (of their names or categories). You’re also forbidden to hunt (wild animals) while you’re under (pilgrimage) restrictions, and Allah certainly makes rules that He wants. [1]

All you who believe! Don’t violate (the holiness) of the symbols of Allah, nor violate the holy month (of Hajj) nor (the animals) brought for sacrifice nor the garlands that identify them, nor the safety (of those who visit) the Sacred House looking for the bounty and approval of their Lord. However, when you’re freed from the restrictions of the holy places and pilgrim’s clothes, you may go hunting (animals for food) once more. Don’t let (your) hatred for some people, who once kept you out of the Sacred Mosque, lead you into being spitefully wrong in return. Help each other in righteousness and mindfulness (of Allah), but don’t help each other in sinfulness or aggression. Be mindful of Allah, for Allah is strict in the final outcome. [2]

You’re forbidden to (eat the following things): meat from animals that died by themselves; blood; pork; anything that was dedicated to any other name besides Allah’s name; anything that was killed by strangling, a blunt strike, falling or by being slashed to death, as well as anything that’s been (partly) eaten by a wild animal – unless you’re able to slaughter it (properly); and anything that was sacrificed on stone (altars). You’re also (forbidden) to divide (up meat portions among people) by drawing marked (arrowheads) to make random selections, for that method is immoral. This day, those who cover over (the truth of Allah) have given up all hope of (destroying) your way of life. So don’t be afraid of them; rather, fear only Me. This day, I have perfected your way of life for you, completed My favor upon you and have chosen for you Islam as your way of life. If anyone is forced by desperate hunger (to eat the forbidden things that were mentioned before), with no desire to do wrong, (then they may eat the forbidden foods for survival purposes only), for Allah is forgiving and merciful. [3]

Now they’re asking you what else is allowed for them (to eat), so tell them, “You’re allowed to (eat) anything that’s healthy and pure, and also what you’ve taught your trained hunting animals (to catch), as you were already directed by Allah. (You may) eat what they capture for you, but be sure to declare the name of Allah over it. Be mindful of Allah, for Allah is quick in taking account.” [4]

This day, everything healthy and pure has been made lawful for you. The (ritually slaughtered) food of those who received scripture in the past is also lawful for you, and your food is lawful for them. (With regards to marriage, you’re allowed to marry) virtuous believing women, and (you may also marry) virtuous women from among those who received scripture before your time, but only if you give them their required marriage gifts and only if you desire decency and not lustful behavior or secret affairs. If someone rejects (faith in Allah), then his deeds will be rendered useless, and in the next life he’ll be among the losers. [5]

All you who believe! When you prepare yourselves for prayer, wash your faces and your hands up to the elbows. Wipe the top of your heads (with water), and (wash) your feet to the ankles. If you’re in a state of greater impurity, then bathe your whole body. However, if you’re sick, on a journey, answered the call of nature or were intimate with the opposite sex and you can’t find any water (to wash yourselves), then you can take either clean sand or earth and use it to wipe your faces and hands. Allah doesn’t want to put you into any hardship; rather, (He wants to) purify you and complete His favor towards you, so you can be thankful. [6]

Remember the favors of Allah that have been bestowed upon you, and remember His covenant that He concluded with you when you said, “We hear, and we obey.” Be mindful (of Allah) for Allah knows what you’re thinking. [7]

All you who believe! Stand forth firmly for Allah as witnesses to fair dealing. Don’t let the hatred of others towards you make you swerve towards injustice or towards being unfair (to them in return). Be fair, for that’s the closest to being mindful (of Allah). So be mindful then, for Allah is well-informed of everything you do. [8]

Allah made a promise to those who believed and who did what was morally right that they’ll receive forgiveness and a great reward. [9]

Whoever rejects (their natural faith in Allah) and denies Our (revealed) verses will be among the companions of the raging blaze. [10]

Translation: Yahiya Emerick

Footnote to the middle lines in Ayat 3:

This was one of the last passages revealed to Prophet Mohammad, (Peace be upon him) indicating that his ministry was coming to an end. The name of the religion Islam, or surrender to Allah’s will is given in this verse.

It was revealed on a Friday during the Prophet’s Farewell Pilgrimage in the year 632, and recited to the gathering throng of 100,000 people on what is known as the Day of Arafat. While many Muslims were elated at this confident statement of Allah, Umer bin al Khattak began to weep openly. When the Prophet asked him why he was weeping, Umer replied, “This verse signals that your time in this world is drawing to a close“. The Prophet replied in the affirmative. Eighty days later, the Prophet passed away.

Footnote to Ayat four:

All permitted, or halal meats, as well as produce such as fruits, legumes, nuts, vegetables, and grains are considered good, and pure. The Prophet specifically forbade the eating of animals that hunt, and kill other animals with their teeth, such as lions, wolves, snakes, or lizards. He also prohibited eating birds that hunt, and kill others with their claws, such as falcons, and hawks.

Footnote to Ayat 5:

In the Prophet’s time, most Jews, and Christians in Arabia observed some basic slaughtering standards that included mentioning Allah’s name before felling the animal, cutting the jugular vein swiftly, thus minimizing the pain felt by the animals, and then draining the excess blood from the animal. (See Acts 15:29, 21:25, and 1 Corinthians 10:20-21)

While Orthodox Judaism retained this practice, as the centuries progressed, Christian culture has largely abandoned such methods. Meat prepared today by Christians, and others does not meet the requirement of halal meat, and therefore forbidden.

Day Fifty Five (A Journey with Quran)

Surah An Nisa: Ayats 171–176

Followers of Earlier Revelation! Don’t go to extremes in your religious (doctrines), and don’t make statements about Allah that aren’t true. Jesus, the son of Mary, was a messenger from Allah and His (creative) word bestowed upon (the virgin) Mary and a spirit sent from Him. So believe in Allah and His messengers (who were mortal men). Don’t say, “Trinity.” Don’t do it, as that would be best for you. Truly, Allah is just one God, glory be to Him! He’s (far above) having a child! He owns everything in the heavens and on the earth, and Allah is quite enough to take care of matters (for Himself)! [171]

The Messiah never refused to be Allah’s servant, nor have the angels, nor the nearest (people devoted to Him). Whoever arrogantly refuses to serve Him will be gathered back to Him (for judgment). [172]

Those who believed and did what was morally right will be given their due reward by Him, and even more out of His bounty! But those who were hesitant and arrogant will be punished by Him with a painful punishment, and they’ll find no one to help them or protect them besides Allah! [173]

All you people! Absolute proof has now come to you from your Lord in that We’ve sent you a clear light. [174]

So those who believe in Allah and hold firmly to Him will soon be admitted to (a state of) mercy and grace from Him, and He will guide them to Himself along a straight path. [175]

Now they’re asking you for (an additional) legal decision (concerning inheritance in cases in which there are no descendants or ascendants). Say to them, “Allah gives you the following instructions for people who leave neither descendants nor ascendants as heirs. If it’s a man who dies and he leaves a sister, but no children, she will get half the estate he leaves. If (the deceased was) a woman who left no children, her brother gets her estate. If there are (only) two sisters (left as heirs), they will get two-thirds of the estate (to share between them). If there are brothers and sisters, males and females, (then they will share the entire inheritance, with) the male receiving twice the share of the female.” And so Allah makes things clear to you so you won’t do anything in error, (and remember that) Allah knows about all things. [176]

Translation: Yahiya Emerick

Day Fifty Four (A Journey with Quran)

Surah An Nisa: Ayats 161–170

They took interest money, even though they were forbidden to, and they used up people’s wealth foolishly. We’ve prepared a terrible punishment for those among them who reject (the truth). [161]

However, those (Jews) who are firmly educated and who have (true) faith -they believe in what’s been revealed to you, as do those who pray and give in charity to the poor and who believe in Allah and the Last Day. Soon We will grant them a valuable reward. [162]

We’ve sent revelation to you, (Muhammad), in the same way that We sent revelation to Noah and to the messengers who came after him. We sent revelations to Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob and the tribes (of Israel), as well as to Jesus, Job, Jonah, Aaron and Solomon, and We gave the Psalms to David. [163]

We’ve already told you the story of some of the messengers, but of others We haven’t. Allah even spoke directly to Moses. [164]

The messengers gave good news, as well as warnings, so that people (who lived generations) after (the time) of each messenger would have no plea (of ignorance) against Allah, for Allah is powerful and wise. [165]

Allah testifies that what He sent down to you was sent from His Own knowledge, and the angels testify as well, though Allah is enough of a witness Himself! [166]

Those who cover (the light of faith within their hearts) and keep others away from the path of Allah have strayed far away in error. (167)

Allah won’t forgive those who cover over (their ability to have faith in Him) and who do wrong, neither will He guide them towards any pathway, [168]

Except the way of Hell, and there they shall remain forever, and that’s easy for Allah. [169]

All you people! The Messenger has come to you in all truth from Allah, so believe! It’s in your best interest to do so. However, if you reject (the truth, know that) everything in the heavens and on the earth belongs to Allah, and Allah is full of knowledge and wisdom. [170]

Translation: Yahiya Emerick