PDF Summary:Allah Loves, by Omar Suleiman

In our pursuit of the Divine's affection, what qualities must we embody? In Allah Loves, Omar Suleiman explores a comprehensive array of characteristics that draw us closer to the Almighty—from striving for piety and sincerely repenting, to exhibiting thoughtfulness and revering those we hold dear.

Suleiman delves into virtues mirrored by the Prophet Muhammad's noble conduct, which serves as the ultimate example. By meticulously examining how traits like steadfastness and excellence manifest in our spiritual obligations and worldly endeavors, Suleiman provides a roadmap for earning the affection of the Most High.

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Maintaining self-respect while exhibiting modesty.

Allah cherishes a modest disposition that steers clear of both haughtiness and undignified self-degradation.

Suleiman underscores the need to strike a balance between excessive self-assurance and unnecessary self-criticism, maintaining a humble demeanor. He emphasizes the significance of preserving one's dignity and warns that too much humility can also cause problems within the Islamic faith. He references a compelling excerpt indicating that those whom Allah regards with favor show modesty when interacting with fellow believers, demonstrate resilience when confronted by non-adherents, dedicate themselves fully to the divine mission, and are not swayed by the criticism of those who oppose them. He argues that understanding and applying these characteristics in unison is crucial.

Suleiman warns that certain individuals, despite showing commendable behavior towards those of different faiths, may forsake their own religious principles or act harshly towards fellow believers when faced with ridicule from non-adherents. True humility manifests as greater discretion among fellow worshippers and in maintaining one's self-respect and convictions when interacting with people from different religious backgrounds. This dignity, he clarifies, does not equate to disrespect or aggression but rather a steadfast adherence to Islamic principles and values. It is important to stand firm in our spiritual beliefs, even when surrounded by those who may subscribe to different religious ideologies. Suleiman inspires his audience to embrace their Islamic faith with conviction, expressing their convictions through actions and words, while standing firm against the temptation to compromise. He further emphasizes the importance of addressing the pressures that can arise internally within the Muslim community. People who have internalized negative stereotypes and feel insufficient in their faith may occasionally project these unfavorable perceptions onto fellow believers who conspicuously follow their spiritual rituals. Upholding our religious convictions firmly, despite facing scrutiny from within or beyond the Muslim community, is crucial for securing the love of the Divine. We should strive for an equilibrium that fosters modesty, avoiding any form of disgrace, while maintaining polite demeanor, cultivating a modest nature, and ensuring authenticity in our interactions with all individuals, irrespective of their religious beliefs.

Practical Tips

• Engage in conversations where you actively listen more than you speak. In your next group discussion, make a conscious effort to ask questions and show genuine interest in others' opinions without dominating the conversation. This practice can help you appreciate the value of others' contributions, which is a key aspect of modesty.
• Develop a habit of asking for feedback from a diverse group of people after completing a task or project. This allows you to gather external perspectives that can help you calibrate your self-assessment. You might find that others perceive your work differently than you do, which can inform a more balanced view of your abilities and areas for improvement.
• Create a 'reverse bucket list' that highlights your mistakes and what you learned from them. Instead of listing achievements, this list should include instances where you faltered and how those experiences contributed to your growth. Reflecting on past errors with a learning mindset can reinforce the importance of humility in personal development.
• Create a resilience roadmap by setting a long-term personal goal that aligns with your values and breaking it down into smaller, manageable tasks. For each task, anticipate potential challenges and plan how to overcome them. This approach not only prepares you for setbacks but also reinforces your dedication to persist despite obstacles.
• Volunteer for leadership roles in community projects to practice assertive humility. Taking charge of a project allows you to demonstrate humility through service while also acknowledging your ability to lead and make decisions. Choose a cause you're passionate about and offer to lead an initiative, ensuring you listen to others and incorporate their ideas.
• Engage in role-playing exercises with a trusted friend where you practice responding to situations that test your convictions. For example, simulate a scenario where someone challenges your beliefs, and practice responding in a way that is both respectful and assertive. This prepares you to maintain your self-respect and convictions in real-life interactions.
• Engage in a creative project that expresses your spirituality, like painting, writing poetry, or composing music. This can be a personal endeavor that allows you to explore and affirm your beliefs in a tangible form, strengthening your conviction in a non-confrontational way.
• Engage in interfaith dialogue by joining or creating a discussion group with people of different beliefs to share and learn about Islamic faith in the context of global spirituality. This can broaden your perspective and strengthen your conviction through the articulation of your beliefs in a diverse setting.
• Start a personal journal to reflect on your experiences and feelings related to internal pressures. By writing down your thoughts, you can better understand the pressures you face and begin to identify patterns or triggers. For example, if you notice that you feel particularly stressed during certain community events, you might explore ways to prepare for these events or discuss your feelings with someone you trust.
• Volunteer for service projects that resonate with your religious principles to practice love through action. Look for local community service opportunities that align with the teachings of your faith, such as feeding the hungry or supporting the elderly, and commit to regular participation.
• Create a "disgrace avoidance" plan by listing common scenarios in your life where you might face embarrassment or disgrace and brainstorming proactive strategies to handle them with grace. For example, if public speaking often leads to feelings of disgrace due to performance anxiety, your plan might include joining a local speaking club to practice and gain confidence in a supportive environment.

Thoughtful consideration and endurance

Allah esteems individuals who thoughtfully and patiently consider their actions and words, rather than responding impulsively.

Suleiman emphasizes the significance Allah places on the traits of perseverance and reflective consideration. He contends that in our eagerness to perform virtuous acts, we sometimes neglect these characteristics, which results in precipitous and insufficiently deliberated actions. The book presents a compelling narrative that encapsulates these qualities by exploring key events in the life of a distinguished Companion, al-Ashaj 'Abd al Qays, as told by the author. Upon the Prophet's arrival, al-Ashaj prioritized the safeguarding of his tribe's belongings and took the time to ensure his own presentable appearance before he proceeded to meet and welcome him alongside the other Companions. The Prophet (peace be upon him) responded to an inquiry by praising the individual for having two qualities that are greatly esteemed in the sight of Allah. Your endurance and careful reflection.

Suleiman characterizes forbearance as the capacity to preserve composure when dealing with others, recognizing that it requires greater fortitude to remain serene through one's own trials than in situations beyond our control. He emphasizes that the divine name al-Halim illustrates Allah's quality of enduring His servants' misdeeds with patience while granting them numerous chances for redemption. The teachings of the Prophet, which call for peace to be upon him, emphasize the importance of deliberate thought as opposed to rash actions, which are often linked to the machinations of the Devil. Careful and deliberate execution, which avoids hasty decisions that might cause more harm than benefit, is a reflection of mindfulness. This trait should not be mistaken for laziness or a lack of action; rather, it involves moving forward intentionally, ensuring our deeds are meticulously planned and executed with efficiency. Omar Suleiman concludes by emphasizing the importance of aligning our deeds with Allah's divine attributes by developing patience and engaging in deep contemplation, which not only fortifies our self-discipline but also establishes the groundwork for deeper and more enduring spiritual growth.

Practical Tips

• Engage in active listening during conversations by summarizing what the other person said before responding. This technique forces you to slow down, consider the speaker's words carefully, and respond thoughtfully. It also demonstrates patience and respect for the speaker, fostering more meaningful interactions.
• Create a 'perseverance tracker' using a simple app or a physical calendar. Mark the days when you've successfully worked through a difficult task or continued a positive habit despite challenges. This visual representation of your persistence can serve as a motivational tool, reminding you of your capacity to endure and encouraging continued effort.

Other Perspectives

• The ability to adapt quickly to changing circumstances is a critical skill in many fast-paced environments, and this agility can sometimes be hindered by excessive deliberation.
• The story's interpretation could be subjective, and different scholars or traditions might emphasize different aspects of al-Ashaj 'Abd al Qays's character or the situation, leading to varied conclusions about what is most important.
• There are circumstances where patience can lead to missed opportunities or enable ongoing issues to worsen if not addressed promptly.
• Rash actions can sometimes be the result of a variety of psychological factors, such as stress, anxiety, or other emotional states, rather than the influence of the Devil.
• Relying too heavily on deliberate thought might stifle creativity and intuition, which often require a degree of spontaneity and immediate decision-making.
• Focusing too much on avoiding harm could potentially lead to risk aversion, where opportunities for growth and learning through trial and error are missed.
• Intentional action can sometimes be a guise for procrastination, where one delays necessary actions under the pretext of being mindful and deliberate.
• In some situations, swift action may be more aligned with divine attributes if it prevents harm or responds to an urgent need, suggesting that flexibility and responsiveness are also important qualities.
• Deep contemplation, while valuable, is not the only path to self-discipline; some individuals may find that practical experience, mentorship, or structured routines are more effective in developing self-control.

Relational Qualities

Devotion directed exclusively towards the Supreme Being.

Individuals who cultivate genuine love for others solely to gain Allah's love demonstrate selfless dedication, and such individuals are blessed with His affection.

Suleiman underscores the unique beauty of cultivating a love devoted to the Divine, an endeavor that strengthens our bonds with fellow beings and ensures the reciprocation of heavenly love. He emphasizes that such love goes beyond mere surface-level bonds, nurturing a profound kinship among all Muslims. He offers an in-depth depiction of the profound impact divine affection had on the initial followers of Islam, underscoring the scriptural guidance to adhere unwaveringly to celestial guidance as a united body and to eschew all forms of conflict. Remember the favor of Allah; previously you were separated, yet He brought your hearts together, and by His favor, you became brethren. Suleiman emphasizes that the love that grew between them was the result of a genuine change within their hearts, rather than a random occurrence or simply following an order from the Prophet, which created robust connections among them despite their former disparities.

Suleiman underscores the profound benefits of love that is steered by one's belief in Allah and refers to a prophetic tradition about people who will be granted Allah's shelter beneath His Throne when the Day of Judgment comes. The first group identified is associated with a duo who nurture and sustain their connection through shared veneration for the sacred, and this group has ties to the mosque. He continues to share a moving narrative of a man who, while traveling to visit his brother in another town, meets an angel on the way who asks him where he is headed. He announced his intention to see his sibling in the adjacent municipality. Did the celestial beings ask whether you had responsibilities in His divine service? He conveyed his affection by saying, "No, my love is solely for the splendor of Allah." The heavenly messenger declared, "Be aware that my role is to communicate His love for you, reflecting the love you have for Him." Suleiman underscores the significance of cultivating love for others as a reflection of our commitment to Allah and the necessity of expressing it without reservation. This outward expression further fortifies the ties of kinship and unity among the Islamic community. The author emphasizes that the depth of our affection for others, rooted in our deep reverence for the Divine, is directly proportional to the love we receive from Allah. Suleiman ends with a touching hadith that demonstrates the deep effect of nurturing love exclusively for the divine purpose of pleasing Allah. God expresses His affection for an individual by informing Gabriel, "I have enveloped this individual with my love, and you too should hold them in high esteem." Jibril grows fond of an individual and proclaims to the heavenly hosts, "Allah esteems this individual greatly, hence you should also cherish them." The heavenly creatures hold him dear, and his existence is embraced by the world. This acceptance, he explains, leads to individuals developing an affinity for others due to characteristics that make them beloved to the Divine.

Context

• Sufism, the mystical branch of Islam, places a strong emphasis on love and devotion to Allah. Sufi teachings often explore the transformative power of divine love and its ability to bring individuals closer to God.
• Islamic teachings often describe angels as intermediaries who convey Allah’s messages and blessings. The notion that angels love those whom Allah loves underscores the interconnectedness of divine and celestial realms.
• This love instills a deeper sense of purpose and fulfillment, as individuals feel they are part of a divine plan, contributing positively to the world around them.
• The early followers of Islam, known as the Sahabah, lived in a tribal society where loyalty was primarily to one's tribe. The shift to a community united by faith rather than tribal ties was revolutionary and required a profound internal transformation.
• The Throne (Arsh) of Allah is a symbol of His supreme authority and majesty. Being granted shelter beneath it signifies receiving divine protection and favor, highlighting the ultimate reward for the faithful.
• Expressing love and kindness within the community helps build trust and cooperation, which are essential for social cohesion. This is particularly important in diverse communities where differences might otherwise lead to division.
• In Islamic theology, the idea of divine reciprocity suggests that actions done with pure intentions for Allah are rewarded by Him. This means that when a person loves others for the sake of Allah, they are believed to receive His love in return, as a form of spiritual reward.
• The idea of being embraced by the world reflects the Islamic emphasis on community and brotherhood. By fostering love for Allah, individuals naturally strengthen communal bonds, leading to a more harmonious society.

Showing reverence for one's maternal figure.

Showing deep esteem through acts of respect, obedience, and admiration for a maternal figure is a sign of honoring the parental role.

Suleiman underscores the importance of valuing the bond with one's mother as a crucial method for earning Allah's affection. He underscores the deep significance of this bond in the context of Islam. Omar Suleiman discusses a lesson that examines the manner in which the Prophet (peace be upon him) answered a person's question regarding who should be the beneficiaries of his compassion. The Prophet (peace be upon him) responded, "Your mother." To whom should my question be addressed? The Prophet (peace be upon him) responded, "Your mother." "Whose is it, then?" the man asked again. The Prophet (peace be upon him) responded, "Your mother." "Who then should be the recipient of it?" the man asked again. The Prophet (peace be upon him) replied, "Your father." This hadith's teachings clearly illustrate the high regard in which Allah holds a mother. Suleiman highlights the significance of maternal reverence by pointing out that, according to the Prophet's guidance (peace be upon him), the path to Paradise is intricately linked with the honor and nurturing of one's mother.

Suleiman emphasizes the distinct link established by the Quran between honoring one's parents and showing true dedication to the Divine, highlighting their profound impact on our lives. Our dedication to Allah is reflected in our behavior towards others, treating them with compassion and esteem, ensuring that we do not elevate them to a godly level or center our worship around them. He conveys a deep teaching by means of a man's confession of a major wrongdoing to the Messenger, upon whom be peace. Before offering guidance on how to seek forgiveness, the Prophet (peace be upon him) inquired about the condition of his mother. Upon noticing she was not there, he inquired if the position of a mother could be taken on by a maternal aunt. The Prophet (peace be upon him) offered guidance to the man, emphasizing the importance of treating his mother kindly, which not only secures the love of Allah but also opens a path to forgiveness for major sins. Suleiman continues by sharing a similar story about Ibn 'Abbas. Upon admitting to the crime of murder, motivated by jealousy, the individual was then interrogated regarding his mother by Ibn Abbas. Upon hearing about the passing of his mother, Ibn Abbas advised him to earnestly beseech Allah for compassion and forgiveness. The students of Ibn 'Abbas, puzzled by a question that appeared unrelated, sought additional clarification. He solemnly affirmed, "I swear that in the eyes of Allah, no action is held in higher esteem than bestowing kindness upon one's mother."

Context

• Throughout Islamic history, many prominent figures have attributed their success and piety to the influence and prayers of their mothers, reinforcing the idea that a mother's role is crucial in shaping an individual's character and spiritual journey.
• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) often used repetition for emphasis in his teachings. By repeating "your mother" three times, he underscored the unparalleled importance of the mother’s role and the need for her to be prioritized in acts of kindness and respect.
• In Islamic teachings, the concept of Paradise, or Jannah, is the ultimate reward for believers who live a life in accordance with Allah's guidance, emphasizing moral and ethical conduct.
• In Islam, honoring one's parents is a fundamental principle, deeply rooted in the Quran and Hadith. The Quran frequently pairs the worship of Allah with kindness to parents, emphasizing their elevated status and the importance of gratitude and respect towards them.
• Muslims believe that they will be held accountable for their actions towards others on the Day of Judgment. Treating others well is seen as a way to earn Allah's favor and a positive outcome in the afterlife.
• The Prophet's (peace be upon him) approach reflects a broader Islamic principle that emphasizes practical steps towards repentance, which include mending relationships and fulfilling duties towards others, particularly family.
• Islam teaches that Allah is the Most Merciful and Oft-Forgiving. Acts of kindness and compassion, especially towards one's mother, are seen as ways to seek Allah's mercy and forgiveness for sins, as they demonstrate sincere repentance and a commitment to righteous behavior.
• Murder is considered a major sin in Islam, and the path to forgiveness is complex, involving both divine and, where applicable, human justice. Ibn Abbas’s advice reflects the spiritual dimension of seeking Allah’s forgiveness alongside any legal consequences.
• The emphasis on kindness to mothers also acknowledges the psychological benefits of maintaining strong, loving relationships within the family. Such relationships can provide emotional support and stability, contributing to overall well-being.

Safeguarding the respect of other individuals

God places great importance on those who deeply respect and protect the honor of their fellow Muslims, ensuring they avoid using harmful or unjust tactics.

Suleiman explores the complex concept of 'ghirah,' which is often referred to as protective jealousy, a trait that can be praised or condemned depending on its expression. He distinguishes between a commendable form of virtuous protective jealousy, which is held in high regard by Allah due to its noble intentions and actions, and another form that is not looked upon favorably by Allah, marked by unfounded suspicions and a deficiency in trust. To illustrate the positive side of ghirah, Suleiman highlights the concept of righteous envy (hasad), which is marked by the desire to emulate the admirable deeds of others, motivated not by a yearning for worldly possessions but by the aim to elevate one's commitment and deeds to honor the divine. This type of envy focuses on the desire to emulate the positive impact that others have through their kind deeds, rather than coveting their material possessions.

Suleiman explains that the commendable version of protective jealousy arises from a combination of moral outrage and a desire to defend the dignity of those who face unfair treatment. When we observe the unjust treatment of individuals or entire Muslim communities facing oppression, we should feel compelled by a sense of stewardship to take action. He emphasizes the importance of allowing our dignity to guide us toward actions that alleviate suffering and promote justice, instead of turning to hostility or detrimental behavior. He cautions against equating ghirah with the reprehensible practice of "honor killings," which he strongly condemns as utterly at odds with Islamic principles and fundamentally lacking in fairness. He emphasizes that genuine respect is found in safeguarding the integrity and well-being of people, rather than causing damage due to incorrect beliefs about cultural standards or individual grudges.

Context

• Honor killings refer to the practice where individuals, often women, are murdered by family members due to the belief that they have brought shame or dishonor upon the family. This is often related to perceived violations of cultural or social norms.

Other Perspectives

• There is a perspective that suggests focusing on honor might inadvertently contribute to a culture of shame, where individuals are more concerned with appearances and societal judgment than with genuine ethical behavior.
• The concept of 'ghirah' might be subject to personal biases and interpretations, which can lead to inconsistent applications and potentially harmful outcomes if not guided by a clear and universally accepted moral framework.
• The commendation of any form of jealousy might be culturally specific and not universally accepted as a virtue, suggesting that its perceived nobility may not be recognized across different societies or faiths.
• The focus on emulating others could potentially create a hierarchy within a community, where the deeds of some are considered more worthy of emulation than others, which could lead to division rather than unity.
• The concept of defending dignity can be subjective and culturally relative; what is considered an affront to dignity in one culture may not be seen the same way in another, leading to actions that may not be universally recognized as just or necessary.
• Observing unjust treatment may not always provide enough context or information to determine the most appropriate course of action, potentially leading to misguided or ineffective attempts at promoting justice.
• Protective jealousy, even with the best intentions, can sometimes infringe on individual freedoms and privacy, especially if the person acting on ghirah oversteps boundaries.
• The idea of not causing harm due to grudges may overlook the complexity of human emotions and relationships, where personal grievances can sometimes influence actions in ways that are not easily categorized as simply right or wrong.

Practical Qualities

Exercising careful and thorough consideration.

Allah holds in high regard those who tackle their duties and tasks with meticulousness, thoroughness, and a commitment to outstanding performance.

Suleiman underscores the importance of striving for outstanding performance in all life's facets, including our spiritual duties and secular endeavors, as an expression of our devotion to the Divine. He underscores the significance of carrying out duties meticulously, a practice that is held in high regard by the Divine. Omar Suleiman characterizes Itqan as embodying not just an exceptional work ethic but also the striving for superiority in our intentions, signifying that a solid work ethic is a true manifestation of deep ihsan.

Suleiman argues that pure intentions alone cannot justify less than desirable results in our religious observances. He encourages individuals to devote the same level of commitment and attention to detail to their spiritual exercises as they do to their career endeavors, recognizing that our utmost endeavors in all aspects of life should be aimed at our divine Creator. In every aspect of our lives, whether it's engaging in religious practices, taking part in community events, or advancing in our careers, we should execute our responsibilities to the utmost level, as the depth of our dedication reflects the sincerity of our purpose. Suleiman motivates us to fulfill our Islamic responsibilities with a commitment and fervor that exceeds what any earthly authority or power would anticipate. He finishes by emphasizing that the pinnacle of excellence is reached when a heart imbued with ihsan joins forces with a robust work ethic, leading to outcomes that are both impactful and aesthetically pleasing.

Practical Tips

• Create a personal excellence checklist for your daily responsibilities to ensure thoroughness. Before beginning any task, write down the steps required to complete it with excellence. As you work, tick off each step. This method not only helps you stay organized but also serves as a reminder to maintain high standards in all aspects of the task.
• Start a small discussion group with friends or community members to talk about the real-world effects of religious observances. This can be an informal gathering where each person shares their experiences and reflects on whether their actions align with the desired outcomes. It's a way to hold each other accountable and ensure that practices are not just well-intended but also effective.
• Schedule a weekly 'spiritual audit' with the same rigor as a business meeting. Block out a specific time each week to review your spiritual activities and their impact on your life. During this time, assess what's working well, what isn't, and what adjustments might be needed to enhance your spiritual growth. Treat this time with the same importance as a work appointment, ensuring it's uninterrupted and focused.
• Create a personal accountability chart that tracks actions taken for spiritual growth versus worldly achievements. By visually comparing these two aspects of your life on a weekly or monthly basis, you can assess if your spiritual actions are indeed exceeding your earthly pursuits and make adjustments as needed.
• Create a "virtue buddy" system with a friend or colleague where you hold each other accountable for acts of ihsan and maintaining a strong work ethic. Set up weekly check-ins to discuss your progress and challenges. This could involve sharing instances where you went above and beyond in your work or personal life, and encouraging each other to find new ways to integrate these values into your routines.

Consistency

Allah values the steadfast dedication to seeking His grace, demonstrated by consistently carrying out acts of kindness, no matter how small.

Suleiman underscores the importance of consistently engaging in virtuous actions, no matter how small, as a crucial factor in earning Allah's love. He observes that people's participation in spiritual and charitable activities tends to wane once Ramadan concludes, which stands in stark contrast to the heightened activity observed throughout the sacred month. He emphasizes the significance of consistency in our actions, pointing out that even the most minor acts, if done steadily, are cherished by the Divine.

Omar Suleiman demonstrates that the consistency in our deeds mirrors the authenticity of our purpose. Our actions often change due to the impact of external factors or fleeting emotions. Regular actions demonstrate an unwavering consciousness and a dedication to seeking Allah's approval, irrespective of the situations we find ourselves in or our emotional conditions. In his explanation, he describes a scenario in which a person questions the Prophet (peace be upon him) regarding the deeds that Allah holds in the highest regard. He answered by stating, "Consistency in actions, even if they are minor, is what counts." Suleiman encourages us to identify small, sustainable acts of worship and compassion that we can continue to practice even after the month of Ramadan has concluded. By focusing on consistency rather than striving to sustain the intense level of devotion commonly experienced during Ramadan all year round, we create lasting habits that strengthen our connection with the Divine. Aisha conveyed that once a spiritual regimen was established in the household of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), they adhered to it with steadfast dedication.

Practical Tips

• You can maintain the spirit of giving by setting up a monthly donation plan to a charity of your choice. By automating your donations, you ensure that your charitable contributions continue throughout the year without the need for active management. For example, choose a cause you're passionate about and set up a recurring payment through their website or a donation platform.
• Create a "micro-goal" challenge with friends or family where you all commit to a small, consistent action for a set period. For instance, you could all agree to read five pages of a book every night for a month or to drink a glass of water first thing in the morning. Group accountability and the shared experience can reinforce your commitment to consistency.
• Implement a "one less" principle in your daily routine, where each day you aim to do one less negative action and replace it with a positive one. For example, if you find yourself getting frustrated in traffic, instead of honking or expressing anger, take deep breaths and wish the other drivers well. This practice encourages mindfulness about your actions and gradually steers your habits towards more compassionate responses.
• Pair your worship routine with an already established daily habit, such as drinking morning coffee or brushing your teeth. By linking the new habit of worship to an ingrained one, you create a natural reminder and increase the likelihood of consistency without the need for significant changes to your daily routine.
• Set alarms at regular intervals throughout the day as a modern call to spiritual practice. In the past, bells or calls to prayer would remind people to take a moment for spiritual reflection. You can use your smartphone or a timer to prompt you to pause, breathe, and engage in a brief spiritual exercise, whether it's a short prayer, a moment of gratitude, or a mindful breathing exercise.

Consistently observing prayers punctually.

Allah holds in high esteem those who faithfully observe their obligatory prayers, showing profound respect for their connection to the Divine.

Suleiman underscores the importance of being timely in our prayers, a seemingly simple practice that is vitally important for strengthening our connection with the Divine. Omar Suleiman underscores the importance of our commitment to the Islamic ritual of salat, as instructed by the Prophet, as a primary aspect of our judgment. Regularly and timely engaging in the prayers that are essential to the Islamic faith demonstrates our profound dedication to strengthening our relationship with God.

The author underscores the significance of giving precedence to obligatory religious practices, and equally acknowledges the value of engaging in extra voluntary devotional activities. Abdullah ibn Masud seeks guidance from the Prophet (peace be upon him) to discern the deeds that Allah values the most. The Prophet (peace be upon him) underscored the significance of observing prayers on time. He further underscores the significance of commencing one's prayers as their specific times begin, except for the Isha prayer. Our deep desire to connect with Allah is emphasized by our eager expectation, which in turn elevates the significance of our supplications to Him. The poet Ibn al-Qayyim inspires us to approach Allah with hearts full of yearning. Suleiman recognizes that the realities of life may sometimes necessitate postponing prayers within their allowed duration, yet he emphasizes the need to cultivate a consistent attitude of promptness and zeal towards prayer. He underscores the importance of consistently and timely engaging in prayer as a powerful method to earn His affection and mercy.

Context

• The practice of obligatory prayers was established during the Prophet Muhammad's lifetime and has been a central aspect of Islamic practice since then. It reflects the continuity and preservation of Islamic traditions over centuries.
• Timeliness in prayer symbolizes a believer's readiness and eagerness to respond to God's call, demonstrating devotion and reverence.
• In Islamic jurisprudence, salat is considered a fard (obligatory act), and neglecting it without valid reason is seen as a serious lapse in religious duty.
• Prioritizing obligatory practices helps cultivate spiritual discipline and consistency, which are crucial for personal development and maintaining a strong connection with God.
• Throughout Islamic history, many scholars and devout Muslims have emphasized the importance of voluntary acts as a means to attain higher spiritual ranks and closeness to Allah.
• Adhering to prayer times teaches accountability and responsibility, as it requires planning and dedication to fulfill this religious duty consistently.
• Historically, the call to prayer (adhan) served as a public announcement of the prayer times, helping communities synchronize their daily activities around these spiritual obligations.
• A deep desire to connect with Allah can also have a psychological effect, fostering a sense of peace, purpose, and fulfillment. This emotional state can enhance the focus and devotion during supplications.
• The concept of rukhsa in Islam provides concessions for believers, allowing them to combine or delay prayers when necessary, highlighting the religion's adaptability to human needs.
• Praying at designated times unites Muslims worldwide, creating a sense of global community and shared faith, as millions perform the same acts of worship simultaneously.

Emulating the characteristics of the Prophet.

To earn the Divine's affection, one must strive to embody the noble qualities represented by the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), which are greatly valued by the Almighty.

Suleiman underscores that the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the paragon of the traits discussed throughout the book. He cites a powerful passage from the Quran that states: "Announce, if your loyalty 'to Allah' is genuine, follow my example, and you will be graced with His affection and forgiveness for your misdeeds." Allah's fundamental essence is characterized by compassion and the ability to pardon. Suleiman motivates his listeners to reflect on the scripture and consider how to emulate the Messenger's exemplary behavior.

Omar Suleiman highlights the extraordinary character of the Prophet, which is so praiseworthy that it received commendation from Allah in the Quran, exemplifying an unmatched standard of ethical conduct. The Prophet's life serves as a beacon, providing guidance and inspiration across all aspects of our lives. Suleiman acknowledges the difficulty in mirroring the Prophet's flawless conduct, yet he underscores that the sincere effort is what truly matters to Allah. Omar Suleiman highlights the core message of the verse, which suggests that individuals who follow the guidance provided by the Prophet will receive Allah's love and forgiveness, showing deep insight into our human flaws. Suleiman emphasizes the significance of striving to embody the noble characteristics demonstrated by the Prophet, highlighting that this effort alone can attract the love of the Divine. He emphasizes the necessity of pursuing divine pardon, recognizing our own flaws, and depending on His boundless compassion. Suleiman underscores the ongoing journey of adopting the Prophet's traits, recognizing that each stride forward brings us closer to Allah and consequently deepens His love for us.

Practical Tips

• Volunteer for a cause that supports individuals who have made mistakes and are seeking redemption, such as programs for former inmates or rehabilitation centers. Engaging with people who are actively working to better themselves can reinforce the importance of compassion and forgiveness in your own life, and provide practical experience in applying these principles.

Other Perspectives

• There are perspectives within various religious traditions that suggest a direct personal relationship with the Divine is possible without intermediation or specific behavioral models.
• The emphasis on a single individual as the paragon of noble traits could be seen as limiting, overlooking the potential for a diverse range of role models from different backgrounds and eras.
• Some individuals may question the practicality of emulating the life of a prophet in modern times, given the vast differences in social, cultural, and technological contexts.
• Others might believe that personal inspiration and guidance can also come from one's inner moral compass or from philosophical and ethical principles that are not necessarily rooted in religious figures.
• Sincere effort, while important, may not be sufficient for everyone, as individuals have different capacities and life circumstances that could affect their ability to mirror such conduct.
• There are interpretations within Islamic theology itself that emphasize God's mercy and love as being all-encompassing, not limited to the followers of Muhammad's example alone, but extended to all humanity.
• Some may argue that the concept of divine pardon assumes a belief in a higher power that not all individuals share, and thus, the idea of pursuing divine pardon may not be relevant or essential to those who do not hold such beliefs.
• The concept of a linear progression towards divine proximity could be oversimplified, as spiritual growth is often described as non-linear and multifaceted.

Revitalizing the customs associated with the Prophet.

People can deepen their bond with Allah and earn His love by adhering to the Prophet Muhammad's (peace be upon him) guidance.

Suleiman emphasizes the need to breathe new life into the practices of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and to incorporate them into our daily routines, ensuring that these acts are not just performed in isolation but are connected to a deeper spiritual meaning. He notes that often we see individuals displaying admirable characteristics without realizing that such traits originate from the Prophet's teachings. Our actions ascend to a more profound form of devotion when we deliberately mold our behavior in accordance with the teachings of the Prophet.

Suleiman highlights the profound spiritual rewards derived from the revival of a neglected Sunnah, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) guided. In a society where secular perspectives often shape the perception of virtuous qualities, consciously embodying these traits in a way that reflects the conduct of the Prophet (peace be upon him) imparts a deeper sense of purpose and significance to these actions. Suleiman concludes his work by urging the integration of the Sunnah's teachings into the very essence of our everyday existence, influencing our interactions, religious practices, and individual behavior. We can strengthen our bond and earn the love and endorsement of the Divine by committing anew to humble but meaningful actions that demonstrate our loyalty to the Prophet (peace be upon him).

Context

• The Prophet’s guidance is rooted in the Qur'an, the holy book of Islam, which Muslims believe to be the literal word of God, providing a comprehensive framework for life.
• In today's fast-paced and often secular world, integrating these practices requires intentional effort and may involve overcoming societal pressures that prioritize material success over spiritual growth.
• In contemporary times, applying these characteristics involves navigating complex social and ethical dilemmas while maintaining integrity and faithfulness to Islamic principles.
• The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) lived in 7th-century Arabia, and his teachings addressed the social, economic, and spiritual issues of the time, offering timeless solutions that remain relevant today.
• Understanding the historical and cultural context in which the Sunnah was practiced can provide insights into its significance and relevance in contemporary times, encouraging its revival.
• In a modern context, embodying these traits can serve as a counterbalance to materialistic and individualistic tendencies, offering a framework for living a life of purpose and meaning beyond worldly success.
• By integrating the Sunnah, individuals can enhance their social interactions through principles like kindness, honesty, and empathy, which are emphasized in the Prophet’s teachings.
• In Islamic teachings, the intention behind an action (niyyah) is crucial. Actions performed with the intention of pleasing Allah and following the Prophet are considered more meritorious.