All Muslims accept that God is al-Kareem (The Most Generous). Muslims learned in madrasa that the Omni-Benevolent God is the source of all generosity. But I never had an internally consistent satisfactory answer to my impasse over theodicy (the vindication of divine goodness and providence in
In pre-Islamic Arabia, alcohol use was widespread. To eradicate this evil, Allah in His mercy revealed the prohibition in stages. First, He made it clear to them that the harm of drinking alcohol is greater than its benefit, next He told the Muslims not to come to prayer while intoxicated and finally, He revealed a verse totally prohibiting alcohol.
Everything that happens comes about through Allah’s command of “Be.” At every second, every thing and scene that appears before us is created through Allah’s will. Nothing is left to its own devices, for everything is created for the destiny that Allah has determined for it.
But since there is no winning with the ignorant as they have no desire to know the truth – this response is more so an educational and informative insight into many of Islam’s misconceptions for the vast majority of people – who are actually open to learn.
Though most of the Arabian Peninsula was witnessing poor security conditions, the blessedness of Makkah’s Sacred House guaranteed security, peace and flourishing businesses to the Quraishites who lived near it.
However, what is appalling is to see some of those who were guided to do good deeds and take provisions from virtues during this month hastily destroying what they had built, and replacing good with evil. This is a gross mistake and shameful act in the true sense of the word and no remorse or apology will revoke it when you stand in front of your One Lord.
We need to realize that the relevance of Islam is not determined by the importance we as the “faithful” assign to our faith, but rather how our all-embracing faith responds to the realities of our times.
Determination is the most significant attribute of a believer. Believers never lose their enthusiasm and their devotion. Believers engage in their struggles only to earn the pleasure of Allah, which is why no difficulty proves to be a hindrance to their endeavors. The only goal of believers is to deserve the favor of their Lord, and they shape their lives accordingly.
This Surah was revealed to counter the attacks and the hostile campaign launched by Abu Lahab and his wife, Umm Jamil, against the Prophet (peace and blessings be on him). Allah the Almighty took it upon Himself to defend His messenger and establish the final word on his behalf.
Prophet Muhammad (Peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Do not over-praise me as the Christians over-praised Jesus, the son of Mary. I am His slave, so refer to me as ‘God’s slave and Messenger.’”