Human history is rife with oppression, often cloaked by illusions of grandeur, military strength, and wealth. Yet the Qur’an reminds us of one unchanging reality: When the powerful resort to tyranny, they will inevitably face divine justice. It’s easy to believe might makes right, but the Qur’an demonstrates that no degree of power, wealth, or influence can avert God’s decree. Whether in the past or today, the same pattern emerges – tyrants rise, grow arrogant, oppress others, and are eventually undone. The Arrogance and Fall of Pharaoh Consider Pharaoh, who ruled Egypt with absolute power and committed crimes fueled by pride, declaring, “I am your lord, most high!” (Qur’an 79:24). His unchecked arrogance led him to subject the Children of Israel to forced labor, to deny them basic rights, and to have their newborn sons killed. Today we witness tyrants using lethal force against innocents, like Zionist forces in Palestine. Like Pharaoh, they disregard human life, believing political or military power shields them from moral accountability. Yet Pharaoh suffered Allan’s wrath when he and his army drowned in the Red Sea, obliterating his empire. No worldly luxuries nor amassed wealth shielded him. The lesson? When tyranny challenges divine authority, it’s condemned to failure. Wealth and the Pitfalls of Arrogance And what of Qarun, of Prophet Musa’s (peace be upon him) community? He had immense wealth and believed it a result of his intellect and skill, not divine blessings, making him arrogant. Yet his wealth, like Pharaoh’s armies, couldn’t save him. The earth swallowed him and his treasure. “So, We caused the earth to swallow him and his home.” (Qur’an 28:81) Qarun’s downfall challenges materialism. We often celebrate wealthy people and view them as paragons of success. But the Qur’an tells us that, while wealth can be a blessing, if it fosters arrogance and neglect of moral and spiritual responsibilities, it can become a curse. Qarun’s story teaches blessings must be used to serve God’s creation rather than to inflate personal egos. Historical Empires’ Collapse Historically, grand empires and powerful regimes that once seemed immutable have vanished. The Persian Empire, the Roman-Byzantine Empire, and other colonial powers have crumbled, leaving behind ruins and lessons. When the French colonized Algeria from1830–1962, indigenous Muslim populations suffered. Cultural suppression was rampant, and those who resisted were persecuted, imprisoned, and subjected to violence. The French believed themselves invincible, supported by a powerful military and a sense of cultural superiority. Yet the colonial edifice eventually collapsed, just like past empires. At its zenith, the British Empire included large swaths of South Asia, North Africa, and the Middle East. Many Muslims lived under restrictive policies that stunted their economic growth, suppressed Islamic institutions, and dismissed local voices. Though it presented itself as a beacon of civilization, the Empire disintegrated over the course of the twentieth century. Modern Examples of Tyranny’s End Syria’s Assad regime once appeared unassailable, surviving over fifty years of systematic oppression, torture, sexual violence, arbitrary arrests, and extrajudicial killings. Political power once considered monolithic is now fragmented and unstable. Many Syrians, those who endured torture, families who lost children, and the displaced who fled for safety, rejoiced at even partial signs of this regime’s weakening. Despite an uncertain future, we know oppressors who believe their power permanent eventually face their vulnerability. Leaders aren’t alone in their tyranny. Abusers who harm via physical, emotional, or psychological means, can oppress as well. When they face justice, their victims are relieved, yet believers recognize real accountability extends beyond this life. The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught, “No one who has an atom’s weight of pride in his heart will enter Paradise” (Muslim), underscoring how even a small measure of arrogance leads to spiritual ruin. Pride and Paradise Pride doesn’t just lead to external oppression; it poisons from within. It blinds individuals to their flaws, distances them from divine mercy, and deceives them into thinking themselves self-sufficient. The Prophet (peace be upon him) warns pride is destructive and must be rejected, teaching that humility is the path to divine success. The Question of Justice Delayed If oppressors’ downfalls are certain, why do many live long, successful lives with no punishment. Both Belgium’s Leopold II and Russia’s Joseph Stalin’s regimes led to the deaths of countless people yet they died in bed, seemingly without earthly retribution. Countless Zionist politicians seem to “escape” with barbaric crimes against humanity. This can test faith. The story of the People of the Ditch in Surah al-Burūj depicts believers thrown alive into a ditch of fire. The Qur’an doesn’t mention their oppressors’ immediate downfall, suggesting they escaped punishment. However, the message is this: Divine justice is never absent, only delayed. “And never think that Allah is unaware of what the wrongdoers do. He only delays them until a Day when eyes will stare [in horror].” (Qur’an 14:42) When oppressors die without accountability, we must remember our perception is limited. Complete justice belongs to God, whose knows all and who settles all moral debts on Judgement Day. This knowledge strengthens faith. Having Hope in Divine Justice Delayed or unseen justice encourages a profound relationship with Allah. The believer’s trust doesn’t just hinge on what happens in this world but rests in the conviction that God’s justice transcends human limitations. While this can be a severe test for oppressed communities, the Qur’an reassures us. “The way [of blame] is only against those who wrong the people and tyrannize upon the earth without right. Those will have a painful punishment.” (Qur’an 42:42) Moreover, martyrs’ fate reminds us that one’s spiritual standing trumps one’s worldly circumstances. The People of the Ditch perished in flames, but they are immortalized as paragons of faith and resistance. Conversely, their oppressors remain examples of moral bankruptcy who faced the ultimate reckoning. As a result, we recognize that patience and steadfastness have cosmic value. Responding to Oppression The Qur’an and hadith emphasize believers mustn’t despair when oppressed. Even when the wheels of justice grind slowly, or not at all, Muslims must

Attending a funeral is a solemn occasion that often brings people from diverse backgrounds together to honor a life that has passed. If you are attending a Muslim funeral, you may be wondering what to expect, how to show respect, and what traditions you might encounter. This guide is designed to provide non-Muslims with a clear understanding of Muslim funeral practices, helping you navigate the experience with sensitivity and awareness. In Islam, death is seen as a transition from this life to the next. Muslims believe in an afterlife and that this worldly life is a test for the eternal life to come. The rituals surrounding death and burial emphasize simplicity, humility, and a focus on prayers for the deceased’s soul. Understanding this spiritual framework can help you appreciate the practices you will witness. Key Funeral Practices Muslim funerals are marked by simplicity, dignity, and adherence to specific religious guidelines. When you arrive at a Muslim funeral, which often takes place in a mosque, you can expect a solemn and respectful atmosphere. If this is your first time visiting a mosque, check this article out. You may be asked to remove your shoes before entering the prayer area, a common practice in mosques to maintain cleanliness. Men and women might have separate seating areas, depending on the community’s traditions. There may or may not be a short talk about the deceased or reflections on the concept of death and the afterlife, depending on the family’s preference or the community’s customs. The central part of the funeral is the congregational funeral prayer, known as Salat al-Janazah. Sometimes, it is held immediately after one of the daily prayers, as this ensures a larger congregation can join in praying for the deceased. This prayer is usually performed inside the mosque or directly outside of it. Unlike regular prayers, this one does not involve bowing or prostrating. Instead, it consists of standing, reciting specific supplications, and praying for the deceased’s forgiveness and mercy. This prayer is short and takes about 5 minutes. As a non-Muslim, you are welcome to observe quietly but are not required to participate. After this short prayer, the casket is then carried out of the mosque and transported to the burial site. Sometimes, only men go to the graveyard to bury the deceased, while women may remain at the mosque. This practice varies across cultures and communities. The burial takes place as soon as possible after death, often within 24 hours. This quick timeline is rooted in Islamic teachings and emphasizes returning the body to the earth. At the gravesite, the body is placed directly into the ground, usually lying on its right side and facing Mecca (the direction of prayer for Muslims). Attendees may take turns pouring soil into the grave, a symbolic act of saying farewell and participating in the burial. This act is deeply spiritual, reminding attendees of their own mortality and the transient nature of life. Once the burial is complete, prayers are recited for the deceased, asking for their forgiveness and for ease in the afterlife. Etiquette at the Funeral Modesty is a key principle in Muslim culture, especially during solemn occasions like funerals. Men are typically expected to wear simple, modest clothing, such as a suit or slacks with a shirt. Women should wear long, loose-fitting garments that cover the arms and legs, and a headscarf is often appreciated as a sign of respect, though it may not be required. If you are unsure about what to wear, consider reaching out to the family or the person who invited you for guidance. The goal is to dress in a way that demonstrates respect for the occasion and the traditions of the family. It is important to arrive on time, as Islamic funerals are usually brief and follow a structured timeline. If the funeral prayer is held in a mosque, remove your shoes before entering the prayer area and observe quietly and respectfully. Express your sympathy to the family in a simple and heartfelt manner. Phrases like “I’m sorry for your loss” or “My thoughts are with you” are appropriate. If you are close to the family, you may also say, “May God have mercy on them” or “May they rest in peace.” Ensure that your phone is silenced or turned off to avoid disruptions during prayers or reflections. Be mindful of cultural customs, such as physical interactions. For example, some Muslim men and women may avoid handshakes with the opposite gender as a sign of modesty. Muslim funerals often do not include viewings or open casket ceremonies, as the focus is on modesty and prayer. However, there may be an open casket briefly where people see the deceased. Extravagance is avoided, with an emphasis on simplicity and avoiding elaborate decorations, expensive caskets, or excessive displays of grief. In some communities, men and women may stand separately during the funeral prayer or at the gravesite. This is not universal but is common in more traditional settings. For Muslims, the funeral is not only a farewell but also a moment to reflect on life’s temporary nature and the importance of preparing for the hereafter. The communal prayers and support offered during this time are acts of worship and solidarity, reinforcing the bond between the deceased and the living. If you’re attending as a friend, colleague, or acquaintance of the deceased or their family, your presence alone is meaningful. Simply being there to listen and offer a kind word can mean a lot. Grieving families may appreciate help with tasks such as cooking, errands, or childcare. Taking the time to understand the beliefs and practices associated with Muslim funerals can demonstrate respect and deepen your connection to the family. Conclusion Attending a Muslim funeral is a profound experience that provides insight into Islamic values of humility, community, and faith. By approaching the occasion with respect, an open mind, and a willingness to learn, you can honor the deceased and offer meaningful support to their loved ones. If you

Sudan is in crisis as escalating conflict has caused mass displacement, an economic crisis, and a collapse of healthcare services. The war is a power struggle between the Sudanese Armed Forces and the Rapid Support Forces. Officials estimate that the violence in Sudan has killed at least 15,500 people, while other estimates are as high as 150,000. Sudan’s crisis can be understood through the past decades of political instability. In 2019, the removal of authoritarian leader Omar al-Bashir was at first a hopeful development for a return to civilian rule in Sudan. However, a military coup in 2021 dissolved the civilian government. This triggered political and economic turmoil and has stoked the flames of internal conflicts in the country. The war has pushed over 25 million Sudanese civilians in need of humanitarian aid, which is more than half of Sudan’s population. “United Nations investigators have reported that the country is in the grips of mass famine, although an official famine designation has not been made. The euphemism of food deprivation is presently being used to describe the dire food situation in Sudan.” Millions of people have fled their homes due to the violent crisis, with upwards of 12 million people displaced. Most people remain in the country, meaning that this is one of the largest displacement crises in the world. Sudan is also affected, as much of the rest of the Global South, by global climate change. Floods and droughts across the country have created unlivable conditions, with mass crop and livestock destruction. Attacks on the healthcare infrastructure have created conditions where people are not able to access lifesaving care. UNHCR reports that almost three quarters of health facilities are out of service, and diseases including cholera, measles, and malaria are spreading. They also estimate that two-thirds of the population lacks access to healthcare. The conflict does not exist in a singular vacuum – Western countries and African nations have a role to play in the violence. Egypt, Saudi Arabia, the UAE, and Israel have played key roles in exacerbating the conflict. The Arab Center in DC reports that these groups have a vested interest in preventing Sudan from having a civilian and democratic government. The Gulf Arab countries have strong relations with the former regime of Omar al-Bashir. Al-Bashir previously sent military assistance and troops against the Saudi and UAE war against the Houthis in Yemen in 2015. Saudi Arabia also has economic and financial “investments” across the agriculture, energy, water, sanitation, transportation, and telecommunications sectors in Sudan. Israel is attempting to normalize diplomatic relations with Sudan, and has a vested interest to do so. In 2020, the UAE arranged a secret meeting between Hemedti, a general in the RSF, and the then director of Mossad (Israeli intelligence/propaganda arm). The many state and non-state actors invested in destabilizing Sudan are responsible for the horror that Sudanese people are going through. When understanding a conflict like this, it’s important to highlight each angle – from geopolitical interests to climate change to gender. Global agencies such as the UN and Amnesty International have addressed the violence in Sudan – advocating for a ceasefire between the fighting factions and a cessation of military support. Amnesty International published a report in 2023 detailing the conflict and violence. It is further problematic that Sudan is not a well-known issue in mainstream Muslim society. We must increase awareness about Sudan as our Muslim brothers and sisters in the country are suffering. The Quran in Surah Al-Imran, Verse 3 says, “You are the best community ever raised for humanity—you encourage good, forbid evil, and believe in Allah. Had the People of the Book believed, it would have been better for them. Some of them are faithful, but most are rebellious.” Through this, we can understand that Muslims must embrace justice and forbid that which causes injustice. The situation in Sudan is one where we must rise and denounce the injustices of the warring factions, and instead promote peace, raise awareness, and give aid. As of today, hundreds of thousands of Sudanese civilians are afflicted with dehydration, starvation, and disease caused by conflict. We make a call to those who can help to donate to Sudan relief. Check out Helping Hand for Relief and Development campaign for Sudan aid and make a donation to help address the situation in Sudan. Continue following ICNA CSJ as we update the situation in Sudan through policy and advocacy. Read Other Articles on icnacsj.org

We always want more. Isn’t that the fundamental human experience? Always feeling inadequate, unfulfilled, like something’s missing. We could have the whole world and everything in it, and it still wouldn’t be enough. There’s a reason Jannah is such a powerful motivator, with its promises of bliss that never fades nor grows old. Isn’t that the ultimate dream? But instead of always seeking more in a never-ending quest for happiness, what if we tried to recognize the blessings we have in our lives and sincerely be thankful for them? I was married on October 5, 2024, and it was not the easiest journey. I was first introduced to my husband more than a year ago. We spoke over the phone twice and met in person once, but almost immediately we independently realized the relationship wasn’t going anywhere. So, we told our respective parents as much and ended the conversation pretty quickly. And yet, for the next six months wherein we had no contact, I couldn’t shake this nagging feeling out of my heart this was whom I was meant to marry. Even after we ended things, even after I told my parents “no,” in my heart I was still making dua for him. Because despite how ridiculously contradictory my actions were to my feelings, I knew it was meant to work out, but I also knew it wasn’t the right time. Six months passed and we decided to give it one more shot; two months later we were engaged, and four months after that we were married. Allah’s plan is beyond perfect. When the time was right, when we had become right for each other, everything fell into place in the most beautiful of ways. Nevertheless, those four months of engagement felt infinitely slow and agonizing. Speaking objectively, four months is not a long time. However, when you’ve made the decision to spend the rest of your life with someone, every second away from them feels like a minute, and every minute feels like an hour, and it feels like the time will never come. Of course, it did come, and we were soon married alhamdulillah. But the test of patience didn’t end with our nikaah, and we were quickly forced to confront the reality of our situation. I live in Houston, and he’s based in Chicago. Neither of us is in a place where we can uproot our lives and move across the country, and while this is something we discussed before getting engaged, I don’t think either of us expected a long-distance relationship to be quite as challenging as we quickly realized it was. There is something so emotionally draining, so genuinely hard, about committing your entire existence to someone and then having to live more than a thousand miles away from them. Life quickly begins to feel like a ‘filler episode,’ like you’re floating in space, going through the motions of life meaninglessly until you see him again. Then when you do see him, lights flash, the world beams in color, your heart starts to beat again, and you feel like you have purpose once more. That is until the weekend is over and you go your separate ways, and you can feel the ache creeping back into your chest from the distance. Recently I complained about this to a friend, hoping for sympathy and comfort. Instead, her response forced me to pause and reflect. What a sad life I was choosing for myself. To live my day to day as if it meant nothing. To have put my all into one man, who may be deserving of it sure, but aren’t there also things I owe to myself? Don’t my parents deserve to have a daughter who serves them and treats each moment with them as precious? Don’t my siblings deserve a sister who’s present and makes time for them? Don’t my friends deserve my company, my conversations? And most importantly, doesn’t my Lord still have rights over me? Did He not give me purpose? Was I not created to worship Him and Him alone? Allah did not gift me with a husband for him to become my entire life. He is meant to be an addition to what already exists. A wonderful, kind, sweet addition but an addition nonetheless – not a replacement. The rest of the world did not vanish when I got married. Of course, it’s ridiculously difficult to be so far from him, but when I finally make the move across the country, I will be tested with distance from every single other person who I hold valuable. So instead of getting lost in the potential future, I have to live in the present and actively strengthen my connection with those who matter to me because this time with them is limited. That is the advice I was given, and while hearing it shook me to my core, it’s advice I’ve taken to heart. To live in the moment, to make the most of each second as it passes, that is the true test of gratitude. Can I thank Allah for allowing me to have a home to live in, for blessing me with family and friends, for each minute I get to call my husband? Am I going to spend this year resentful and frustrated or content and grateful? Am I going to value the gifts Allah has granted me now or be upset about the things He’s saved for me in the future? “Alhamdulillah ala kulli haal.” The Prophet (peace be upon him) taught us these words – “Praise be to Allah in all circumstances.” It doesn’t matter what test we’re faced with, whether it’s in regard to family, school, career, or anything else. We trust Allah and we trust in His perfect plan, and, with that trust, we are grateful to Him. Alhamdulillah. Read Other Articles on messageinternational.org

Earlier this year, I traveled to Jordan with a relief organization. I spent a week visiting refugee camps sheltering countless Gazan and Syrian families, as well as individuals who have lost their families, including too many child orphans. Often when people visit refugee camps, they return with emotional messages, haunted by the tremendous pain and loss they have witnessed, stories of grieving widows, children without shoes, and nomadic campsites lacking water or basic human necessities. But beyond these personal narratives, something else comes to mind, a thought that boils the blood of every Muslim who cares. We ask ourselves what caused this immense pain and suffering. The answer? — carnage and destruction inflicted by people who care little about justice, who seem to care nothing about being the direct cause of human suffering. Yet, we know that the Lord is fully aware of what they do. And the Lord also knows what we do. So, where is the Muslim ummah, two-billion strong, in the pursuit of long-delayed, long overdue justice? Where are we, American Muslims, who enjoy the opportunities and conveniences of living in this country— what are we doing to bring about justice? Are we aware of and willing to pay the price of living here? Are We Willing to Pay the Price? The price of living here is you being angry about the injustices prevalent in the world and, therefore, engaged with the political system. The price of living here is you aiming to be the most pious practicing Muslim you possibly can be. You must be, when the land you call home is one of the most politically and economically powerful in the world. The price of living here is you regularly inviting others to Allah’s truth in a way that reflects the profound goodness of Islam: “Invite to the Way of your Lord with wisdom and kind advice…” (Qur’an 16:125). The price of living here is you never compromising on the truth of what Allah (SWT) has revealed and you living by it with firm resolve: “And do not incline toward the wrongdoers, or you will be touched by the Fire…” (Qur’an 11:113). The price of living here is you being required to learn about the worldwide impact of America’s political system as it morphed into a military-industrial complex, to be aware of how many innocent people that the oligarchy oppresses, and to recognize its taint of discrimination by race, class, national identity, religion, etc., both at home and around the world. As Muslims, we are called to care and act when we see injustice wherever it may be.  How then can we watch a genocide unfold in Gaza and not engage with our political system? The Prophet (pbuh) said: “Whoever among you sees evil, let them change it with their hand… If you cannot, then with your speech; if you cannot, then hate it in your heart—and that is the least degree of faith” (Muslim). We see the state of the economy, the government corruption, the immorality of some politicians; and we see scores of people who feel frustrated and helpless. However, many Muslims cast their votes this month, determined to make themselves known as an important and integral part of this country’s political dynamics. They voted to make it clear there are hundreds of thousands of people who see the genocide taking place and cannot remain silent. Nonetheless, you may think, “I’m just one person, what can I do?” But this is exactly how the oppressors want you to think— that you are powerless, that you are insignificant. But that isn’t true, and the Prophet (pbuh) said wanting for your brother what you want for yourself is a sign of a believer, offering us hope in the importance of our compassion and our actions. The Prophet (pbuh) said, “None of you truly believes until he loves for his brother what he loves for himself” (Sahih al-Bukhari). Conversely, we also hate for our brothers and sisters what we hate for ourselves. Therefore, if we don’t desire genocide for ourselves, we cannot be complacent when we see others subjected to it. The Fight for Justice Can Never Cease However, the road isn’t always easy. Understand that when you struggle against evil you will likely face people who wish to see you silenced by any means necessary. These people have demonstrated in other lands the lengths they will go to dehumanize a group and commit war crimes against them. Nevertheless, Muslims’ fight for justice can never cease, particularly for those who live in the West. As followers of Islam, justice for all people is part of our faith-based worldview. We must fight for it until our last breath. We must stay focused, and we must plan, work, and strategize to inspire others as our ummah did in the past. If you find yourself falling short, remember the Prophet’s (pbuh) words: “The most beloved people to Allah are those who are most beneficial to others” (al-Ṭabarani). If we want to be beneficial to others as our Prophet (pbuh) advised us, and we hope to earn Allah’s love, I offer the following suggestions: Strengthen your relationship with Allah. Educate yourself and others. Volunteer your time and skills. Use your wealth for good. Speak out for justice even if your voice trembles. Engage with the political system to your best capacity. Reassess how you spend your time. Join and strengthen your Muslim community. Always keep your intentions pure. Most importantly, keep moving forward. Get up and get moving. For those already fighting in the way of justice, alḥamdulillah! There are so many amazing men, women, and youth working for noble causes worldwide and doing what’s required of them by fulfilling their promises to Allah (SWT). “Among the believers are men true to what they promised Allah…” (Qur’an, 33:23). However, if you’re ever struggling to live up to this noble stature, having difficulty in implementing any of the above suggestions, let the coming Day of Judgment be your inspiration. Imagine standing before

The excitement simmers as you are crouched at a race, eager to begin the sprint, energy and strength built up in body and mind. When the starting shot is fired, the potential for victory is unlimited. Most would agree that when an idea for action sprouts in one’s mind, and a plan is then formulated to attain the results, that is perhaps the relatively easier part. The individual is excited about the novel situation, has zeal galore. Yes, motivation is bountiful at the start line. The more difficult part is maintaining a sustainable pace, to consistently make wise use of resources to make it to the end, or to continue long term if your goal is such. Too often we fall into the cycle of depleting ourselves early on, subsequently giving up and then feeling like a failure mid-way. Real victory is enjoying the run, running with little to no negativity, and making it to the finish line according to your initial plan in terms of your intention and your aims. Several tips can be kept in mind to maintain momentum and motivation once a goal has been formulated and is ready for action. Set Attainable Goals: An important tip to maintain momentum is to make rational goals that are within your reach, keeping factors such as your resources, your talents, and your external circumstances in mind. We do not want to set ourselves up for failure by setting a goal that is unrealistic and thus overextending our efforts and stretching our resources. Since we have restricted time, limited physical strength, as well as constraints on every other resource we own and use, it should be evident that we have to aim for goals that are within our reach. Being too harsh on yourself is harmful to your mental and emotional well-being as well as your outlook on life and should be avoided by never setting an unattainable goal — that only leads to demoralization and loss of motivation to continue setting and striving for goals. Christopher Bergaland, a science writer and public health advocate writes, “’If at first, you don’t succeed, try, try again!’ is drummed into our heads from a very young age. These types of pep talks may backfire if the goal is unachievable regardless of how much effort someone pours into his or her futile struggle to succeed.” If, for example, a student decides that he wants to pursue astrophysics but dislikes mathematics, it would be irrational for him to declare a goal of becoming an astrophysicist. He might instead make a goal of becoming competent in math and overcoming his aversion to it. That would be a reasonable goal and if he accomplishes that, he then could consider astrophysics as an academic major and career path. Likewise, he can attempt to discover his talents and strengths and pursue studies within that realm. In fact, Islam encourages us to consistently and continuously take action, make effort, and strive toward attainable goals.  The Prophet (pbuh) was asked, “What deeds are loved most by Allah?” He said, “The most regular constant deeds even though they may be few.” He added, ‘Don’t take upon yourselves other than the deeds which are within your ability” (Bukhari). Articulate a Good Intention: As Muslims, the start of any task taken toward any long- or short-term goal should begin with the intention. Islam teaches that every act can be an act of worship and is rewarded, if the right intention preceded it. The primary intention is to act for the sake of Allah. Further, the intention to please our Creator is key, whether it be through serving humanity, feeding your child, or simply caring for your own health. Since intentions are at the root of every action, they reflect the underlying motives of why we plan something or do what we do. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) said, “Indeed, deeds are by intention. Every man will be rewarded only for what they intended” (Bukhari and Muslim). Once we have articulated our intention, we should remind ourselves often of that intention as an added layer of wisdom. When the going gets tough, a reminder of the original, noble intention gives us fuel to keep going. Determine a Personal Reward: Helpful in keeping the spark of motivation alive is picturing what we will get out of it that is favorable to us. In 10 Psychological Tricks to Stay Motivated and Stick with Your Goals, Rick Wignall describes the concept of “artificial positive reinforcement.” He writes that it is “a fundamental principle of human psyche that a behavior is more likely to happen (and continue to happen) when it’s followed by something enjoyable or rewarding.” Allowing small rewards for ourselves after each completed task or level in working toward a goal will boost motivation further. If the goal is a long-term one, break up the timeline and gift yourself once a designated segment has been accomplished. Rewards can be small or large, anything that brings pleasure — a weekend trip after a substantial project or a coffee from your favorite cafe after achieving a workday’s slated agenda. Some may simply remind themselves of the ultimate goal — Allah’s pleasure. Don’t underestimate the power that rewards, even small ones, have on our motivation. Keep in Mind that the Struggle Itself Is Rewarded:  One of the Names of Allah is Al-Aleem (The All-Knowing, The Omniscient) so we have certainty that Allah sees, hears, and knows all things. The private pain one goes through, the silent struggles one endures, the internal jihad some must fight to accomplish certain things — all of this, the hidden, inner aspects, is known to Him alone. When we couple that with the teaching that every act is an act of worship if we so intend it that way, we realize that even if the task or the journey becomes difficult, presents obstacles, or even becomes a burden, that we will be rewarded for the struggle itself. The Prophet (pbuh) said, “No fatigue, nor disease, nor sorrow, nor sadness, nor hurt, nor distress befalls a Muslim,

Laura El Alam Like so many converts, when I was a brand new Muslim, I was trusting and optimistic. Inspired by the beauty and perfection of Islam, I expected that all the “born Muslims” around me would be living upright, wholesome, pious lives. After all, they had been raised with Islam as their blueprint, and the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) as their role model. With the benefits of lifelong guidance and inspiration, I reasoned, how could they display anything but excellent behavior? I was so enamored with my newfound faith and so eager to think the best of my sisters and brothers in faith that I forgot about one inevitable reality: human weakness. Islam is perfect, but humans are not. In fact, every single one of us is a sinner. Anas ibn Malik reported: The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said, “All of the children of Adam are sinners, and the best sinners are those who repent.” (Tirmidhī 2499) If you are a new convert, you may feel deep admiration for certain individuals who taught you about Islam. Perhaps it was your spouse, a co-worker, or a friend who introduced you to the faith. Maybe you started following a lecturer online because you were deeply impressed by their knowledge and charisma. Or possibly some congregants at the local mosque seem to be amazing people with outstanding character, and you’re thrilled to be in their presence. Having role models is not necessarily a bad thing, of course. A problem arises if we take our admiration a little too far. We sometimes put people on a pedestal, forgetting that they, too, are flawed human beings. We might start thinking of certain individuals as more than mentors and teachers, attaching our hearts to them, connecting our faith to them, and expecting them to be perfect. Then, when these people make mistakes or commit grave sins, it can be extremely painful. It might even shake the foundations of our iman, or belief in God. If we find ourselves feeling devastated or having a spiritual crisis when a beloved role model falls from grace, that is a sign that we have put too much emphasis on that person, and not enough on Allah and His deen. We probably did not intend to form an unhealthy attachment, nor set out to worship someone other than Allah. But if our disappointment in a fellow human being’s transgressions hurts us to our core, it is a clue that we have formed an unhealthy or inappropriate attachment to him or her. As Yasmin Mogahed explains, “Pain is a pointer to our attachments. That which makes us cry, that which causes us the most pain is where our false attachments lie. And it is those things which we are attached to as we should only be attached to Allah which become barriers on our path to God.” How can you cope with being shattered when your Muslim role model lets you down? Constantly remind yourself that only Allah is perfect. His prophets, the best of humanity, were infallible in regards to sin, but still mortal and fragile creations. Because humans have free will and are inherently flawed, we will all fall short of our faith’s high standards now and then. But our mistakes are not His mistakes, nor are they indicators that something is wrong with Islam. Continually refresh your personal connection with Allah, the Quran, and the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). We are all part of the Ummah, a community of brothers and sisters in faith who should support and protect one other. Bonding, interacting, studying, and worshiping with fellow Muslims is generally beneficial. But remember that in Islam, you don’t need an intercessor between you and God. You are already– and always– close to your Creator. He tells us in the Quran: “Indeed, it is We Who created humankind and fully know what their souls whisper to them, and We are closer to them than their jugular vein.” (50:16) Remember that tawheed, worshiping Allah alone, is Islam’s central and single most important concept. Always check the compass of your heart and make sure it is pointing towards Him alone. Don’t over-generalize. The human brain is predisposed to learn negative stereotypes, but remember that just because one individual does something disappointing or harmful does not mean that all Muslims are like that. For instance, in cases when a well-known Islamic scholar is exposed for his sins, people often begin to suspect or distrust all scholars. They may even over-generalize so much that they begin to doubt Islam itself. Be proactive to avoid unhealthy attachment in the first place. One step is to adhere to Islam’s gender segregation rules. There is great wisdom in enforcing a distance (both physical and emotional) between men and women who are not mahrams. One-on-one chats and lessons, whether in person or online, can easily devolve into flirtations or prohibited relationships. If you are seeking Islamic knowledge, it is best to find a teacher of the same gender. Learn Islamic knowledge from various sources. If all of your information comes from one person, you will be more dependent on him or her and more likely to suffer a huge spiritual blow if their sins are exposed. There are innumerable resources, online and in-person, to learn about Islam and plentiful scholars of both genders. So, diversify your learning. Allah created humans as social beings. We are predisposed to seeking meaningful connection with others, and our hearts can feel profound emotions. There is nothing wrong with loving and admiring people within the boundaries of Islam, but we must always remember that ours is a religion of moderation. We should strive to keep our hearts from feeling too attached to anything in this dunya (worldly life). After all, everyone and everything on Earth will eventually perish. The only permanent One is our Creator. He is the only one who will never, ever let us down and He is the only One worthy of our devotion. Read Other Articles on whysialm.org