The more the body enjoys, the more the soul become sullied, and there is safety in having little. Taking only that which you need from this world is an early comfort that Allah bestows upon those whom He pleases among His slaves. Verily! We will inherit the earth and whatsoever is thereon. (Quran 19:40) One poet said: "Water, bread, and shade, These form a most worthy … [Read more...] about Grieve Not Over Being Poor.
Being
Being Blessed With Honor Is Also a Test.
If one is endowed with power, honor, status, rank, or wealth, he must realize that he is being tested. When Prophet Sulaymaan (Solomon) saw the throne of Bilqees (Queen of Sheba) brought before him, he said: "'This is by the Grace of my Lord- to test me whether I am grateful or ungrateful!'" (Qur'an 27:40) Thus Allah gives a blessing to see who accepts it properly - by being … [Read more...] about Being Blessed With Honor Is Also a Test.
The Tax on Being an Eloquent Speaker.
We are successful to the degree that we are dutiful to Allah, and after that, to how we interact with His slaves. We can easily combine words and embellish our speech to please an audience; the difficult thing is to back up our words with virtuous deeds and a noble character. "Enjoin you Al-Birr [piety and righteousness and each and every act of obedience to Allah] on the … [Read more...] about The Tax on Being an Eloquent Speaker.
Avoid being Artificial.
I once read a poem of Abu Reeshah and was instantly captivated by his words. I memorized the poem and studied Abu Reeshah'sstyle. Soon afterwards, I had to present a poem at a school recital, so I tried to copy Abu Reesha's style - the only problem being that I am not Abu Reesha. Hence the words that came out lacked coherence, and the poem in general was stale and insipid. … [Read more...] about Avoid being Artificial.
Being Sad Is Not Encouraged in Our Religion.
"So do not become weak [against your enemy], nor be sad..." (Quran 3:139) "And grieve not over them, and be not distressed because of what they plot." (Quran 16:127) "'Be not sad, surely Allah is with us.'" (Quran 9:40) Referring to true believers, Allah informs us that: "...upon such shall come no fear, nor shall they grieve." (Qur'an 2:38) Sadness enervates the … [Read more...] about Being Sad Is Not Encouraged in Our Religion.