Discovering the Purpose of Life: Reflection, Religion and the Search for Truth
At some point in life, each person reflects on their existence and reflects on the purpose of life. Because? As human beings, we possess the ability to reason, which sets us apart from animals. When people begin to look within themselves and feel a strong desire to find meaning, they often turn to different religions and ideologies. They can spend years looking for answers that quench their thirst for truth.
Embracing Islam: Overcoming Obstacles, Discovering Divinity
As they delve into a large amount of information, they may stumble upon Islam. Many find the answers and their natural conscience attests to the divinity of Islam and they willingly embrace it. However, for others, the process is not so simple. They may struggle with fear of the unknown, feel overwhelmed by numerous rules, or experience a conflict with their own interests.
To some extent, this fear is valid as the laws of Islam can seem overwhelming. Some people may feel inadequate in their ability to comply with all the do’s and don’ts. However, it is important to remember that Islam offers guidance to direct our lives towards success and harmony, away from destructive behavior. To overcome reluctance, it is essential to divide the whole into parts and establish priorities.
Unity in Islam: Revelation, Journey and Harmonizing Wishes
The most crucial aspect of Islam is accepting the Unity of God. Associating partners with God is considered a serious sin in the eyes of God. Also, it is important to remember that the Qur’an was revealed over a period of 23 years and Islamic laws were gradually introduced. Expecting fulfillment overnight is unrealistic and can even be detrimental to one’s spiritual journey.
It is important to address the issue of law and desires. While Islam forbids certain actions, it is clear that even when looking at statistics alone, these actions are harmful to humans. Regardless of religion, it would be logical and beneficial to abstain from them.
Alcohol
Many people can find it difficult to stop drinking. It can be difficult to stop drinking, as it can be a source of pleasure, temporarily numbs pain, and has a social element. However, Islam prohibits the consumption of alcohol as it impairs the intellect and causes harm. While some may argue that there are benefits to alcohol, the harm done far outweighs any potential benefit. Alcohol leads to a wide range of problems, including of dysfunctional families, death and violence. It is scientifically proven that it interferes with the brain’s communication pathways and affects judgment.
Having seen the pain and suffering of a lifetime of a young colleague of mine who was hit by a drunk driver, I can assure you that it is not worth it, neither for the person drinking nor for the innocent lives that are forever shattered by a person that elected to consume alcohol.
Islam promotes the preservation of life, property and self-respect, and forbids harming one’s own body and those around us. Using alcohol as an escape mechanism only aggravates existing problems and does not provide a lasting solution.
hijab
Women may initially hesitate to cover up, as the modern world conditions them that wearing the hijab equals oppression.
Society pushes women to be very self-critical and feel the need to have a perfect body. This weakness is exploited by the media and corporations that set the standards for selling their products at the expense of women. Most of the time women become more and more insecure due to the bombardment of these directed images. The more they try to fit into the image, the more they struggle with diminished self-esteem as if looking different is some kind of flaw. Women who begin to cover up and dress modestly feel liberated. In fact, it is very logical because now they do not have to fit into a certain standard that is imposed on them. What if you believe in Islam but are not ready to wear a hijab?
Gender Relations
Some people may be reluctant to accept Islam thinking that they will never be able to give up their partner. Cohabitation without marriage is on the rise in the United States, as are social problems. These short-term relationships cause disharmony in society. Children grow up in unstable and unhealthy environments, the consequences of which affect them throughout their lives. Studies indicate that the likelihood of child abuse is increased when a non-biological parent enters the scene.
Islam encourages healthy relationships between both sexes and treats marriage as a basic component of society. A healthy marriage leads to a better and more productive partnership. It comforts women in the face of financial responsibilities and protects children from external harm.
Embracing the Path of Gradual Transformation in Islam
The most important concept to remember is that bearing witness to the Oneness of Allah is the most crucial aspect. Following all the other do’s and don’ts comes later. This does not mean that they are unimportant, but rather that they indicate the priority of the actions.
The teachings of Islam were completed in 23 years. The companions of the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, did not change overnight. The root of the action lies in the love of Allah and the Messenger of him, peace be upon him. Once that love is rooted in the heart, other changes gradually come as the heart is ready to adhere to the principles. It is a gradual process; one that requires conviction and patience.
You will not miss anything good if you give up these habits, since they are harmful anyway. If you choose to abstain, the result will be a more productive and useful life; one that adds value to others and leaves a legacy when you leave.
So, embrace the truth and let your life be filled with tranquility and peace. You have more questions? Call 877-WhyIslam, you deserve to know!
