0:00:06.835,0:00:14.280 Al-Bayan, Discourses on the Qur'an[br]Javed Ahmad Ghamidi 0:00:15.544,0:00:23.924 Surah Aal i Imran[br]Aayaat 100 to 104. 0:00:24.294,0:00:28.014 Gratitude is only for God,[br]the Lord of the World, 0:00:28.014,0:00:31.274 and may His peace and mercy[br]be on Muhammad, the trustworthy. 0:00:31.274,0:00:33.874 I seek refuge with God[br]from the accursed Devil. 0:00:33.874,0:00:36.024 In the Name of God, the Most Gracious,[br]the Ever Merciful. 0:00:36.024,0:00:39.754 Ladies and Gentlemen, We are beginning 0:00:39.754,0:00:42.751 the study of Surah Aal I Imran from [br]verse 100 in the Quran. 0:00:44.147,0:00:48.937 Earlier, the first section of the chapter[br]concluded on verse 99 0:00:50.066,0:00:55.466 This Surah comprises of two sections,[br]one introduction and one conclusion. 0:00:55.466,0:00:58.596 This is the structure of its subject [br]matter. 0:00:58.825,0:01:00.585 There is an introduction. 0:01:00.585,0:01:04.585 Then begins a section on the completion of[br]proof on the People of the Book 0:01:05.206,0:01:07.866 and it reaches a conclusion on verse 99. 0:01:08.384,0:01:12.384 Now begins the second section which [br]would finally lead 0:01:12.384,0:01:14.274 to the conclusion of the chapter. 0:01:14.674,0:01:19.326 This verse onwards the address is [br]directed towards the Muslims. 0:01:19.985,0:01:22.195 The direction of the address has changed. 0:01:22.368,0:01:26.368 In these verses of the Quran, this [br]method is generally adopted. 0:01:26.614,0:01:29.913 Either the address is [br]directed towards the Muslims, 0:01:29.913,0:01:33.533 as in Surah Nisa and then the [br]People of the Book are discussed. 0:01:34.184,0:01:37.844 After the introduction of the chapter,[br]the chapter will either begin 0:01:37.844,0:01:41.615 by addressing the People of the Book[br]and then Muslims will be addressed. 0:01:41.974,0:01:46.594 If you look here, the conclusive proof[br]of Allah was demonstrated 0:01:46.594,0:01:48.654 to the People of the Book. 0:01:48.654,0:01:51.644 All evidences were supplied and as we [br]saw in the last lecture, 0:01:51.644,0:01:55.384 at the end of that topic, the Quran [br]provided answers to the 0:01:55.384,0:01:58.244 three main objections raised by[br]the people of the book. 0:01:58.543,0:02:01.693 After providing answers to their [br]objections 0:02:01.693,0:02:04.898 they were sternly reprimanded and[br]then they were also invited to Islam 0:02:04.898,0:02:07.183 and they were asked to not reject [br]the Quranic verses 0:02:07.183,0:02:09.363 and not to stop people from Allah's[br]path 0:02:09.363,0:02:12.983 and not to sully those things that[br]they have been made witness to 0:02:12.983,0:02:15.743 because this is not the correct attitude. 0:02:16.269,0:02:18.619 Now the address is directed [br]towards the Muslims, 0:02:18.619,0:02:24.609 Muslims are first warned of the [br]deviant schemes of the People of the Book 0:02:24.609,0:02:30.379 which they would employ to turn away [br]the Muslims from the path of the truth 0:02:30.379,0:02:33.274 But they should stay steadfast [br]on the path of Allah. 0:02:33.802,0:02:37.354 After this, the stages of purification [br]and cleanliness of the Muslims will begin 0:02:37.354,0:02:39.292 In other words, Muslims should [br]reform themselves, 0:02:39.292,0:02:41.302 they should fulfil their obligation [br]towards islam, 0:02:41.302,0:02:43.902 they should hold on to the rope [br]of Allah steadfastly, 0:02:43.902,0:02:47.252 they should follow the way of Allah[br]and the Prophet (pbuh) in difficult times. 0:02:47.680,0:02:51.680 So, these things which are important [br]for their purification, cleansing 0:02:51.680,0:02:55.680 the purification of their wisdom and[br]character will be discussed. 0:02:55.770,0:02:58.050 So, this is the order of this[br]Surah. 0:02:58.359,0:03:02.359 Allah says, "Yaaa ayyuhal lazeena aamanoo [br]in tutee'oo fareeqam 0:03:02.359,0:03:04.519 minal lazeena ootul Kitaaba" 0:03:05.602,0:03:10.922 Believers! If you yield to a group from [br]among these People of the Book, 0:03:10.974,0:03:13.794 It is obvious that from all the things[br]that have been said, 0:03:13.794,0:03:16.594 one of these includes telling the [br]people of the book 0:03:16.594,0:03:18.544 about things they have been [br]doing wrong. 0:03:18.544,0:03:22.544 On the other hand, since they are[br]religious people 0:03:22.544,0:03:25.074 and they are at the forefront of religious[br]issues, 0:03:25.074,0:03:27.924 people look up to them with respect to[br]these issues, 0:03:28.416,0:03:31.541 in a way, they have the status [br]of religious leaders, 0:03:31.541,0:03:35.541 the common people of Arabia,[br]those from the tribes of Aws and Khazraj 0:03:35.541,0:03:40.541 and people from other tribes think that[br]these people have the best understanding 0:03:40.541,0:03:45.261 of issues relating to Prophethood for[br]they have a whole history of Prophets. 0:03:45.261,0:03:47.381 We can make a mistake but 0:03:47.381,0:03:50.474 these people would not easily fall into[br]mistakes in this regard. 0:03:50.474,0:03:53.404 So, these people would be influenced [br]by them to an extent as well. 0:03:53.404,0:03:55.804 That is why this issue was introduced [br]by stating that: 0:03:55.804,0:03:59.804 Believers! If you yield to a group [br]from among these People of the Book, 0:03:59.804,0:04:03.044 By 'a group', Quran refers to those[br]people who are stubborn 0:04:03.044,0:04:06.864 and these people usually include their[br]religious leaders, 0:04:06.864,0:04:09.094 something which the Quran tells us. 0:04:09.094,0:04:12.074 They are the leaders and hence trusted[br]by the common populace. 0:04:12.074,0:04:13.626 It is mostly those people. 0:04:13.626,0:04:15.966 By 'a group', Quran refers to those[br]people only. 0:04:15.966,0:04:18.520 And by 'a group', Quran also refers to [br]those people 0:04:18.520,0:04:20.447 who are not part of this group. 0:04:20.447,0:04:24.137 It Is not as though every one from [br]among the people of the Book 0:04:24.137,0:04:25.847 has become an ingrate. 0:04:25.847,0:04:29.847 A group from among them which also [br]plays the leadership role 0:04:29.847,0:04:31.657 indulges in such activities. 0:04:31.657,0:04:34.617 If you yield to this group from [br]among the People of the Book, 0:04:34.617,0:04:36.147 then what will these people do? 0:04:36.147,0:04:38.527 yaruddookum ba'da eemaanikum kaafireen 0:04:38.527,0:04:42.187 Yaaa ayyuhal lazeena aamanoo in [br]tutee'oo fareeqam 0:04:42.187,0:04:43.537 minal lazeena ootul Kitaaba 0:04:43.537,0:04:47.537 Believers! If you yield to a group from [br]among these People of the Book, 0:04:47.537,0:04:52.557 they will turn you back from belief to [br]disbelief. 0:04:53.050,0:04:58.570 Their real intention is that you [br]yield to these people 0:04:58.570,0:05:06.401 so that they will also lead the [br]Muslims into disbelief like themselves. 0:05:06.916,0:05:12.806 I have already mentioned that the justice[br]loving people from among them, 0:05:12.806,0:05:15.206 those people that the Quran will praise [br]later on, 0:05:15.206,0:05:18.616 the Quran always mentions them by setting [br]them apart from these people. 0:05:18.616,0:05:25.266 The Quran tells us that there are such [br]people who talk of justice, 0:05:25.266,0:05:27.976 and don't act stubbornly at all. 0:05:27.976,0:05:29.676 Although it can be the case that 0:05:29.676,0:05:31.576 their minds may still lack [br]clarity, 0:05:31.576,0:05:35.576 but they ask questions and they [br]engage and then again 0:05:35.576,0:05:39.576 there are people who have a[br]clarity in their thoughts 0:05:39.576,0:05:42.326 but there still persists a dissonance[br]in their actions. 0:05:42.326,0:05:44.576 In other words, he pauses regularly[br]wondering 0:05:44.576,0:05:46.351 if his decision was right of not. 0:05:46.351,0:05:49.744 Even those people that have such [br]ambiguities are different. 0:05:49.744,0:05:53.744 But these people are the ones who are[br]in such a place 0:05:53.744,0:05:59.024 because of their stubbornness that if you [br]listen to them, 0:05:59.024,0:06:00.954 then you should know their objective. 0:06:00.954,0:06:04.284 It is that they will also lead you into[br]disbelief 0:06:04.284,0:06:07.224 just as they disbelieve out of[br]their sheer stubbornness. 0:06:07.224,0:06:10.544 And you think that since they are [br]believers 0:06:10.544,0:06:13.474 and hence they cannot lead you into[br]disbelief... 0:06:13.830,0:06:17.830 It is obvious that if religious leaders [br]and believers are like that 0:06:17.830,0:06:23.007 then people feel that the leaders[br]have no reason to lead them away. 0:06:23.561,0:06:26.481 The Quran stated that their religion [br]is merely ritualistic 0:06:26.481,0:06:29.271 and they are the primary enemies of [br]religion. 0:06:29.271,0:06:32.218 They not only themselves are [br]its disbelievers, but they will also 0:06:32.218,0:06:35.031 lead the Muslims into disbelief if they[br]are led away by them. 0:06:35.031,0:06:38.341 The Quran stated that their actions [br]would lead to such consequences. 0:06:38.341,0:06:44.123 Wa kaifa takfuroona wa antum [br]tutlaa 'alaikum Aayaatul laahi 0:06:44.667,0:06:48.667 O Muslims [Be forewarned of this].[br]In other words, [Be forewarned of them] 0:06:48.667,0:06:52.067 Be forewarned of what you have been told. 0:06:52.067,0:07:01.647 [just reflect] how can you disbelieve [br]when God’s verses are being recited to you 0:07:01.647,0:07:04.527 It is understandable that they want [br]to lead you away 0:07:04.527,0:07:07.667 but how can you disbelieve [br]when God’s Book has been revealed to you 0:07:07.667,0:07:11.447 and His own Messenger is among you,[br]when God’s verses are being recited to you 0:07:11.447,0:07:14.494 when the truth is being manifested [br]before you 0:07:14.494,0:07:18.194 wa antum tutlaa [br]'alaikum Aayaatul laahi 0:07:18.194,0:07:20.914 when God’s verses are being [br]recited to you 0:07:20.914,0:07:26.394 wa feekum Rasooluhu;[br]and His own Messenger is among you. 0:07:26.971,0:07:29.681 If in spite of this they disregard [br]the truth 0:07:29.681,0:07:33.391 then there is no bigger [br]deprivation and misfortune than that. 0:07:33.391,0:07:38.991 They will now have no excuse to present [br]before the Almighty 0:07:38.991,0:07:43.641 which in other words would mean [br]that they have slipped in broad daylight. 0:07:43.641,0:07:47.641 The result would be that even though[br]everything was visible even then 0:07:47.641,0:07:51.641 they surrendered themselves to the dark. 0:07:51.894,0:07:54.804 wa feekum Rasooluh; wa mai ya'tasim 0:07:54.804,0:07:58.104 billaahi faqad hudiya ilaa Siraatim [br]Mustaqeem 0:07:58.104,0:08:01.376 [So hold fast to God] 0:08:01.576,0:08:04.036 "To hold fast to God” means that 0:08:04.036,0:08:08.036 in good and bad circumstances [br]a person adheres to the truth 0:08:08.036,0:08:12.036 and does not swerve in any way from [br]the directives of God 0:08:12.036,0:08:15.326 and the teachings of His Book. 0:08:15.326,0:08:22.306 [So hold fast to God] and [remember that] [br]he who holds fast to God 0:08:22.306,0:08:29.266 [then know that] the one who holds fast to[br]Allah shall be guided to the straight path 0:08:29.266,0:08:33.916 So, he who holds fast to God [br]shall never be misguided 0:08:33.916,0:08:38.916 If you hold fast to your own ego [br]then you will face the same misfortune 0:08:38.916,0:08:41.766 that these people have faced. 0:08:44.538,0:08:48.538 Yaaa ayyuhal lazeena aamanut [br]taqul laaha haqqa tuqaatihee 0:08:48.538,0:08:52.828 Believers! Fear God as you should[br]by [His] right. 0:08:53.694,0:08:57.694 This is an explanation of what holding [br]fast to God actually means: 0:08:57.880,0:09:00.441 When it was instructed to[br]hold fast to God 0:09:00.441,0:09:02.391 and when it was said that 0:09:02.391,0:09:04.171 he shall be guided [br]to the straight path 0:09:04.171,0:09:06.511 who holds fast to God and[br]shall never be misguided. 0:09:06.511,0:09:09.211 So, what does holding fast to [br]God actually mean? 0:09:09.931,0:09:13.291 The Quran makes clear its meaning in the[br]next verse: 0:09:13.291,0:09:17.809 to fear God the way a person rightly [br]should. 0:09:18.264,0:09:23.074 The word 'fear' that is usually used... 0:09:23.074,0:09:26.311 Here, the Quran uses the word [br]'Taqwa' or God-consciousness. 0:09:27.224,0:09:29.754 In other words, they should be vary of[br]the limits. 0:09:29.754,0:09:32.481 They should be wakeful with respect [br]to Allah. 0:09:32.481,0:09:36.481 So, generally people feel that it is a [br]way of intimidation. 0:09:36.481,0:09:41.591 Fear is both rational as well as[br]superstitious. 0:09:42.238,0:09:48.268 The fear of ghosts, for example, is a fear[br]that stems from superstition. 0:09:48.268,0:09:51.178 You come across such a situation when[br]you, for instance, 0:09:51.178,0:09:52.318 visit some house. 0:09:52.318,0:09:54.918 It is a fear that stems from delusions. 0:09:55.349,0:09:56.759 Fear is also rational. 0:09:56.759,0:09:59.239 It is a rational fear when you know[br]that the bridge in front of you 0:09:59.239,0:10:01.971 is broken and there are chances that[br]you will fall off the bridge. 0:10:01.971,0:10:03.701 One has to be cautious about it ... 0:10:03.701,0:10:07.701 In other words, a child is quite[br]courageous. 0:10:07.701,0:10:09.462 He can catch hold of a snake. 0:10:09.462,0:10:10.832 But why? 0:10:10.832,0:10:15.427 Because, rationally speaking, he does [br]not understand the concept of a snakebite. 0:10:15.897,0:10:20.777 By 'fear of God', it does not mean that[br]you are frightened by a ghost. 0:10:21.351,0:10:24.881 It entails that you should be conscious of[br]the fact that one day 0:10:24.881,0:10:26.254 you will stand before Allah. 0:10:26.254,0:10:28.234 He is your almighty.[br]You have to face him. 0:10:28.234,0:10:31.834 If you go before him as a dishonest,[br]fraudulent person, 0:10:31.834,0:10:33.944 if you are guided by stubbornness[br]and hauteur 0:10:33.944,0:10:36.254 do you know the consequence of such [br]an action? 0:10:36.254,0:10:40.964 Every reasonable person should [br]be apprehensive of it. 0:10:40.964,0:10:43.707 Our discourse is based on the [br]same principle in this world as well. 0:10:43.707,0:10:47.707 This is what the Quran is [br]trying to explain. 0:10:47.863,0:10:49.123 So, this is being stated. 0:10:49.123,0:10:51.553 The word 'righteousness' that has [br]been used, 0:10:51.553,0:10:53.283 it is obvious that the Quran has said: 0:10:53.283,0:10:55.363 ittaqul laaha haqqa tuqaatihee 0:10:55.363,0:10:58.633 Believers! Fear God as you rightly should. 0:10:58.633,0:11:04.073 But Fearing God is required to the extent [br]that a person is capable of. 0:11:04.073,0:11:06.903 The Qur’ān itself has explained this in[br]Surah Taghabun. 0:11:06.903,0:11:08.777 Fataqul la masta ttaatu 0:11:08.777,0:11:12.777 You should fear God as much as you [br]are capable of. 0:11:12.925,0:11:15.635 In other words, such an attitude[br]is not detrimental for the individual. 0:11:15.635,0:11:19.355 If he is fearful and apprehensive, [br]if he is conscious of the transgressions 0:11:19.355,0:11:21.935 and if he bound by the limits set [br]by God, 0:11:21.935,0:11:25.605 he will do it to the extent that [br]a person is capable of. 0:11:25.605,0:11:29.285 God doesn't ask you to shoulder [br]more responsibility 0:11:29.285,0:11:31.095 than you are capable of shouldering. 0:11:31.095,0:11:35.095 But he will fear God by accepting [br]the truth of fearing God. 0:11:35.095,0:11:38.405 In other words, he will fear God[br]with the consciousness that 0:11:38.405,0:11:40.295 he is dealing with God himself. 0:11:40.295,0:11:43.175 Firstly, the obligations a person owes to [br]God 0:11:43.175,0:11:45.175 are ones which he owes to no other person. 0:11:45.175,0:11:47.495 Secondly, the limits and bounds set [br]by God 0:11:47.495,0:11:51.495 and the punishments for violating them 0:11:51.495,0:11:55.495 have been prescribed for the worldly [br]and next-worldly benefit of people; 0:11:56.219,0:12:00.219 God does not stand to gain from obeying [br]these limits; it is they who stand to gain 0:12:00.219,0:12:03.529 Even when we apply the system of[br]recompense and Punishment 0:12:03.529,0:12:06.557 we do it for the reformation of the[br]community and the people, 0:12:06.557,0:12:07.907 we do it for their welfare. 0:12:07.907,0:12:10.577 In other words, the system of[br]recompense and Punishment 0:12:10.577,0:12:13.287 and the judicial system does not [br]stand to benefit from it. 0:12:13.287,0:12:14.870 It is meant for human beings[br]only. 0:12:14.870,0:12:17.636 And if they transgress the set limits [br]then everyone feels 0:12:17.636,0:12:19.716 that they should be criticised. 0:12:19.716,0:12:21.136 So, the law of[br]recompense and Punishment 0:12:21.136,0:12:22.606 that has been legislated by Allah 0:12:22.606,0:12:24.496 is meant for the benefit of human beings[br]only. 0:12:24.496,0:12:26.766 Thirdly, God is watching over [br]everything; so much so, 0:12:26.766,0:12:29.006 He even knows what is in the [br]hearts of people. 0:12:29.006,0:12:31.236 Fourthly, no one can save a person [br]from God’s punishment 0:12:31.236,0:12:33.516 and the Almighty can punish a person [br]both in this world 0:12:33.516,0:12:35.700 and in the Hereafter and this [br]punishment can be eternal. 0:12:35.700,0:12:39.259 So, these are the things which when an[br]individual takes into consideration 0:12:39.259,0:12:44.436 while fearing God, it is only then that[br]he fears God as he rightly should. 0:12:44.436,0:12:47.646 Unless a person keeps an eye on all these [br]aspects of fearing God, 0:12:47.646,0:12:51.046 he cannot grasp the real meaning of [br]fearing God. 0:12:51.046,0:12:53.954 There are lot of things for which [br]man fears man, 0:12:53.954,0:12:57.954 but it is the fear of God, his virtue [br]that is stated here. 0:12:57.954,0:13:00.654 itaqul laaha haqqa tuqaatihee 0:13:00.654,0:13:03.877 Believers! Fear God as [br]you rightly should. 0:13:03.877,0:13:07.877 wa laa tamootunna illaa wa [br]antum muslimoon 0:13:08.467,0:13:14.427 and when you leave this world, then [br]leave it only as followers of Islam 0:13:15.067,0:13:19.067 In other words, when the time comes[br]to leave this world 0:13:19.067,0:13:23.067 then you should be a follower[br]of Islam until that time. 0:13:23.067,0:13:25.307 Wa'tasimoo bi Hablil laahi jamee'anw 0:13:25.307,0:13:29.177 and together cling to the rope of God. 0:13:29.177,0:13:32.857 wa laa tafarraqoo[br]and let nothing divide you 0:13:32.857,0:13:36.857 These are the things that have[br]been stated. 0:13:36.857,0:13:40.037 and we should take note of each[br]of the aforementioned aspects. 0:13:40.037,0:13:42.827 wa laa tamootunna illaa wa [br]antum muslimoon 0:13:42.827,0:13:46.827 It means that the instruction to fear[br]Allah 0:13:46.827,0:13:49.700 or when you are instructed to be[br]obedient towards Allah, 0:13:49.700,0:13:51.980 it is a commitment for a lifetime. 0:13:51.980,0:13:54.050 There is no scope for leave in it. 0:13:54.050,0:13:56.260 Once you have become mature, 0:13:56.260,0:14:00.986 once God-consciousness has become a[br]part of your thought process, 0:14:00.986,0:14:04.986 once it has become part of your intellect,[br]and inner life, 0:14:04.986,0:14:10.223 then this struggle will go on until your[br]last breath. 0:14:10.795,0:14:12.825 Therefore, you should be mindful. 0:14:12.825,0:14:15.724 If you leave this struggle before your[br]death, 0:14:15.724,0:14:17.578 then your hardwork will go to waste. 0:14:17.578,0:14:21.364 So, when the Quran stated that:[br]wa laa tamootunna illaa wa antum muslimoon 0:14:21.364,0:14:24.844 it entails that this matter is not meant [br]for a day or two, 0:14:24.844,0:14:27.944 instead the duration that Allah has[br]decided for this test, 0:14:27.944,0:14:33.154 the entire duration must be spent in this[br]very piety, by fearing Allah. 0:14:33.314,0:14:37.644 It also makes clear that it is an[br]uneven path, 0:14:37.644,0:14:41.644 we will face ups and downs,[br]we will face difficulties, 0:14:41.644,0:14:45.644 we will face discord, we will face[br]Satans who will ambush us at night 0:14:45.644,0:14:49.174 and come across many hitches [br]and obstacles from enemies. 0:14:49.174,0:14:53.734 At times, greed will try to lure us[br]and, at others, 0:14:53.734,0:14:57.174 fear will try to intimidate us. 0:14:57.174,0:15:01.174 Those who passed through all these [br]phases while protecting their faith 0:15:01.174,0:15:04.564 and reached their destination that [br]Allah has ordained for the believers. 0:15:04.564,0:15:06.504 And what is the nature of that [br]destination? 0:15:06.504,0:15:10.124 It is that man should continue to live[br]under the principles and 0:15:10.124,0:15:13.094 instructions of Islam, He should be [br]God-fearing till the end of his life. 0:15:13.094,0:15:16.614 At that point when they give up their[br]soul to the Supreme Being, 0:15:16.614,0:15:20.994 as the Quran rightly depicts that they[br]will say that, 0:15:20.994,0:15:22.944 Oh God! we have come to you, 0:15:22.944,0:15:25.847 And in turn God will instruct them to[br]enter paradise, 0:15:25.847,0:15:27.364 Raaziyatum marziyah 0:15:27.364,0:15:30.394 Man is pleased with God,[br]and God is pleased with Man. 0:15:30.394,0:15:35.094 This is what the Quran has termed as[br]Ahtisam Billah 0:15:35.094,0:15:38.514 cling to the rope of God steadfastly, [br]mentioned the Quran and 0:15:38.514,0:15:40.724 then elaborated it at length. 0:15:40.724,0:15:42.324 What is the rope of Allah? 0:15:42.324,0:15:47.224 It is the Quran. This refers to the Qur’ān[br]because this is the rope which is 0:15:47.224,0:15:51.224 stretched from the heavens to the earth [br]between God and His servants. 0:15:51.224,0:15:55.224 It is this rope which is the means to [br]reach God 0:15:55.224,0:15:57.754 and it is also our covenant with Him. 0:15:57.754,0:16:01.434 Consequently, holding firmly [br]the rope of God means nothing but 0:16:01.434,0:16:05.434 to firmly grasp the Book of God and [br]in no situation leave it. 0:16:05.434,0:16:08.947 Holding steadfast is qualified by the word[br]la tafariqu 0:16:08.947,0:16:11.067 and then the Quran has used the words[br]verse 0:16:11.067,0:16:13.197 the Quran has instructed us against[br]any sort of dissension. 0:16:13.197,0:16:14.257 What does it mean? 0:16:14.257,0:16:18.257 This means that this requirement is from [br]Muslims in their collective and 0:16:18.257,0:16:23.750 individual capacity to cling firmly to [br]the rope of Allah. 0:16:23.750,0:16:26.357 They should not become divided [br]by forsaking it. 0:16:26.357,0:16:28.767 While being united they should [br]adhere to the Qur’ān, 0:16:28.767,0:16:30.647 read it and reflect on its verses. 0:16:30.647,0:16:34.647 They should gather counsel from it, [br]turn to it in all their affairs 0:16:34.647,0:16:38.647 considering it to be a [br]scale of justice 0:16:38.647,0:16:44.587 and before its verdicts give no importance[br]to any other yardstick whatsoever. 0:16:44.587,0:16:48.587 This is what the words [br]'etisaam bi hablillah' mean. 0:16:48.799,0:16:52.329 You should firmly grasp this rope [br]of Allah as the Quran said: 0:16:52.329,0:16:54.759 Wa'tasimoo bi Hablil laahi jamee'anw 0:16:54.759,0:16:58.759 Take it that as it was said earlier that[br]you should hold on to Allah firmly, 0:16:58.759,0:17:02.759 and a person holds on to Allah by fearing [br]him and by fully obeying God 0:17:02.759,0:17:04.439 and once you have the fear of God, 0:17:04.439,0:17:06.489 then you are inclined towards [br]the book of Allah 0:17:06.489,0:17:09.569 so that I do not transgress[br]the limits set by Allah. 0:17:09.569,0:17:13.569 And how to cling to the rope of [br]Allah is further emphasized 0:17:13.569,0:17:17.569 and portrayed in the reality of [br]the Quran that, 0:17:17.569,0:17:22.259 If you really want to abstain from[br]any sort of discord then this thing 0:17:22.259,0:17:23.959 must be taken in consideration. 0:17:23.959,0:17:26.629 You must cling to the book of God. 0:17:26.629,0:17:28.769 wazkuroo ni'mat allaahi alaikum 0:17:28.769,0:17:30.089 And the Quran said: 0:17:30.089,0:17:33.279 and remember the favour [br]God has bestowed upon you: 0:17:33.279,0:17:34.269 What favours? 0:17:34.269,0:17:35.949 iz kuntum a'daaa'an 0:17:35.949,0:17:39.986 Here, the companions are the addressee,[br]that when you were enemies of one another 0:17:39.986,0:17:43.629 fa allafa baina quloobikum[br]so He united your hearts 0:17:44.000,0:17:46.962 fa asbah tum bini'matiheee ikhwaananw 0:17:46.962,0:17:52.788 and with His grace, Allah's grace,[br]you became brothers. 0:17:52.788,0:17:55.738 And remember, the Quran said: 0:17:55.738,0:17:58.748 wa kuntum 'alaa shafaa [br]hufratim minan Naari 0:17:59.149,0:18:03.149 and [remember] when you stood [br]at the very brink of an abyss of fire; 0:18:03.149,0:18:07.149 fa anqazakum minhaa;[br]then He saved you from it 0:18:08.697,0:18:13.927 The companions, who were party to[br]the Prophet (pbuh) are told 0:18:13.927,0:18:18.267 about the grace that Allah has bestowed[br]upon them. 0:18:19.203,0:18:23.203 Anyone who is aware of the history [br]of Pre-islamic Arabia knows that 0:18:23.505,0:18:27.505 Before the revelation of this Book, [br]every tribe was an enemy of the other 0:18:28.256,0:18:31.836 and they would be engaged in [br]fighting and warfare. 0:18:31.836,0:18:33.256 The stories of their warfare 0:18:33.256,0:18:35.726 are spread across their literature[br]and poetry. 0:18:36.250,0:18:40.250 There was no unifying thread between [br]them on the basis of religion also. 0:18:40.733,0:18:43.451 They were, each one of the them, [br]the progeny of Abraham, 0:18:43.451,0:18:44.446 but only in name. 0:18:44.446,0:18:46.438 Each tribe had its own deity. 0:18:47.071,0:18:50.111 Their interests clashed with one [br]another 0:18:50.111,0:18:52.511 in the fields of politics and [br]economics as well. 0:18:52.511,0:18:54.061 With the coming of the Quran, 0:18:54.061,0:18:58.061 it knitted them together and [br]weaved them into a locket of pearls 0:18:58.061,0:19:04.141 and those erstwhile foes became [br]friends, well-wishers, and brothers. 0:19:04.391,0:19:09.451 Here, they are reminded of the [br]blessings bestowed upon the arrival 0:19:09.451,0:19:12.507 of the Prophet (pbuh) and the Quran. 0:19:12.507,0:19:13.747 They were told that: 0:19:13.747,0:19:18.547 they stood at the very [br]brink of an abyss of fire; 0:19:18.547,0:19:22.547 Warfare, hatred for each other, Shirk,[br]and consequently, internal grudges 0:19:22.547,0:19:26.547 which were founded on disbelief,[br]and colliding with each others profits 0:19:26.547,0:19:30.547 had dragged you to a place [br]where you stood at the very 0:19:30.547,0:19:33.547 brink of that abyss of fire. 0:19:33.684,0:19:36.194 And the nature of that fire is such [br]that 0:19:36.194,0:19:40.194 it is quite extraordinary for nations[br]in this world as well as in the next world 0:19:40.194,0:19:42.784 where it won't spare anyone indulging in[br]idolatry, 0:19:42.784,0:19:46.734 injustice, oppression and transgressions [br]against others. 0:19:47.114,0:19:48.754 So, the Quran said: 0:19:48.754,0:19:52.754 then the Prophet (pbuh) and the Quran[br]saved you from it. 0:19:52.894,0:19:56.524 kazaalika yubaiyinul laahu lakum [br]aayaatihee 0:19:56.524,0:19:58.964 Thus God explains to you [br]His revelations 0:19:59.636,0:20:02.856 la'allakum tahtadoon[br]so that you may be guided. 0:20:02.856,0:20:05.936 Through these verses we come to know[br]that 0:20:05.936,0:20:09.936 one really important blessing from [br]among God's blessings 0:20:09.936,0:20:13.286 bestowed upon a nation or a group or a[br]collective is that 0:20:13.286,0:20:17.246 a bond of love comes into [br]being between them 0:20:17.246,0:20:19.896 The truth is that it doesn't happen[br]easily. 0:20:19.896,0:20:22.696 Hence, look at the words that the[br]Quran uses: 0:20:22.696,0:20:26.696 iz kuntum a'daaa'an fa allafa [br]baina quloobikum 0:20:27.098,0:20:31.930 Allah put love between you people[br]when you were foes. 0:20:32.559,0:20:34.939 This is a great blessing by Allah. 0:20:35.162,0:20:42.312 Otherwise, minor issues result in[br]the disintegration of nations. 0:20:43.344,0:20:47.344 The ego of human beings is such [br]and it breeds suspicions so easily 0:20:47.344,0:20:51.344 and they are so prone to looking[br]after their own profits, 0:20:51.344,0:20:55.344 that it is even difficult for even four[br]people to work together. 0:20:56.170,0:21:00.720 At every step we are anxious that[br]they might fall in a ditch. 0:21:00.834,0:21:04.834 And internal conflicts, the sort that[br]we see amongst Muslims... 0:21:05.001,0:21:07.041 People are slaves to profits. 0:21:07.041,0:21:11.041 If two people work together, then we [br]do not expect them 0:21:11.041,0:21:15.551 to live their lives together and [br]put faith in each other. 0:21:16.238,0:21:20.238 Mistrust is in the family and outside,[br]it is in the society, 0:21:20.238,0:21:23.318 in the cultural and the political world. 0:21:23.318,0:21:26.220 In other words, they have engulfed the[br]entire community. 0:21:26.220,0:21:29.226 If you look at the environment in [br]your social milieu, 0:21:29.226,0:21:33.549 you will find out that moral[br]degradation is exemplified 0:21:33.549,0:21:36.109 in national divisiveness. 0:21:36.703,0:21:40.703 The entire community will become[br]discordant and perturbed 0:21:40.703,0:21:42.963 because from a moral point of view, 0:21:42.963,0:21:45.673 people are not able to trust each other. 0:21:45.673,0:21:50.833 This environment of mistrust creates a[br]crisis of trust. 0:21:50.833,0:21:53.283 And then it is very difficult to come out [br]of it. 0:21:53.283,0:21:57.063 Hence, Allah has especially brought it to[br]the attention of the Companions that: 0:21:57.063,0:22:03.223 my greatest blessing towards you was to [br]turn your enmity into love 0:22:03.223,0:22:07.223 You became brothers because of My[br]blessings. 0:22:07.223,0:22:11.223 And the situation of your nation was such[br]that 0:22:11.223,0:22:15.223 it would have resulted in a pit of fire[br]in this world as well as the next 0:22:15.223,0:22:17.503 and Allah pulled you out of it. 0:22:17.503,0:22:20.683 Then the Quran stated that:[br]this is the manner in which 0:22:20.683,0:22:22.393 Allah explains his verses. 0:22:22.393,0:22:24.913 And this is how Allah explains to[br]you that 0:22:24.913,0:22:28.913 a slight mistake in this matter [br]can result in grave trials. 0:22:28.913,0:22:32.913 if they want to sustain love [br]and unity among them 0:22:32.913,0:22:36.363 In other words, Allah has united you[br]and if you want to sustain it 0:22:36.363,0:22:39.753 they must hold fast to this Book [br]otherwise 0:22:39.753,0:22:44.773 they will revert to the age of ignorance [br]that they used to be in. 0:22:44.773,0:22:48.773 It was undeniable that they were [br]standing at the brink of an abyss of fire 0:22:48.773,0:22:51.643 If you read their history, it becomes[br]absolutely clear. 0:22:51.643,0:22:55.643 the Almighty caught them [br]by their hands and saved them from it. 0:22:55.643,0:22:58.023 So now if they forsake this Book, 0:22:58.023,0:23:01.053 there is a strong chance that they [br]will fall in this abyss 0:23:01.053,0:23:03.593 and then will not be able to [br]save themselves from its flames. 0:23:03.593,0:23:08.123 This directive that was applicable to the [br]muslim collectivity at that point of time 0:23:08.123,0:23:11.548 it is applicable in the same manner even[br]today. 0:23:11.548,0:23:16.123 The discord and disagreement, [br]the ugliness 0:23:16.123,0:23:19.493 which has become part of our [br]culture, politics, economics, 0:23:19.493,0:23:21.993 one of the major reasons behind that[br]is that 0:23:21.993,0:23:23.980 Muslims have abandoned the book[br]of Allah. 0:23:23.980,0:23:28.360 The instructions and guidance that[br]was there in the Quran, 0:23:28.360,0:23:33.370 the manner in which our moral being[br]was made the real objective of our lives, 0:23:34.041,0:23:38.741 this is the most foundational and[br]axial point of the Quran 0:23:38.741,0:23:42.741 that you have to purify your[br]moral being, 0:23:42.741,0:23:47.971 you have to be of service to others,[br]your wealth is not your own, 0:23:47.971,0:23:50.261 others have a right to it as well. 0:23:50.261,0:23:54.261 You have to spend in the way of your lord[br]and it is obvious that when 0:23:54.261,0:23:56.504 someone is willing to spend their wealth 0:23:56.504,0:23:59.544 then how is it possible that he commits[br]injustice and transgressions 0:23:59.544,0:24:01.964 and how is it possible for him[br]to steal from others? 0:24:01.964,0:24:05.764 This is something which purifies human[br]beings from a moral point of view. 0:24:05.764,0:24:07.914 This was the real message of the Quran. 0:24:07.914,0:24:09.744 Even today if you read the Quran, 0:24:09.744,0:24:12.194 you will find that the Quran does not[br]consist of things like 0:24:12.194,0:24:14.224 which are very common in our[br]culture such as: 0:24:14.224,0:24:16.134 stories of the Prophet being[br]Nur or Bashar. 0:24:16.134,0:24:20.134 He invites human beings to the simple[br]message that 0:24:20.134,0:24:24.134 they should try to verify the true [br]essence of virtue. 0:24:24.134,0:24:25.714 That is the real faith in God. 0:24:25.714,0:24:28.128 It is a feeling of being present [br]before Him. 0:24:28.128,0:24:32.128 You should live with the sentiment[br]that you will be accountable to god. 0:24:32.128,0:24:35.152 and the basis for this accountability[br]is the purification of your moral being. 0:24:35.152,0:24:37.262 Moral being should be as pure as possible. 0:24:37.262,0:24:39.542 The Quran calls it[br]amale saaleh 0:24:39.542,0:24:43.153 You should act in such a way that 0:24:43.153,0:24:49.172 it guides you, your society, your [br]environment to the straight path, 0:24:49.172,0:24:56.162 When things become part of a jargon[br]then people stop focusing on its meaning. 0:24:56.162,0:24:58.282 It is a very beautiful expression. 0:24:58.282,0:25:01.312 In other words, there are certain[br]actions which when commited 0:25:01.312,0:25:05.312 result in internal friction within [br]yourself. 0:25:05.312,0:25:09.312 These actions stem discord at your home,[br]in your community, 0:25:09.882,0:25:16.224 And then there is a sort of action which[br]leads to goodness and success everywhere. 0:25:16.224,0:25:18.074 What is that action? 0:25:18.074,0:25:22.074 It is obvious that it is the same action[br]where an individual has a knowledge 0:25:22.074,0:25:24.384 of his moral being and acquires it. 0:25:24.384,0:25:27.764 He should recognise himself and [br]the essence of his dignity. 0:25:27.764,0:25:33.234 I am a moral being and I will take[br]moral purification to that level 0:25:33.234,0:25:38.034 where it is supposed to be and[br]then I will achieve eminence. 0:25:38.034,0:25:41.744 If I fail to do that then there is no[br]difference between myself and an animal. 0:25:41.744,0:25:43.514 So, this is the teaching of the Quran. 0:25:43.514,0:25:46.244 If you hold steadfast to the [br]directives of the Qur’ān 0:25:46.244,0:25:49.084 and if you make it the center and[br]axis of all things 0:25:49.084,0:25:51.444 which I always translate as the[br]following: 0:25:51.444,0:25:55.444 The main reason for the decline of[br]the Muslim community is that 0:25:55.444,0:25:59.244 it neither made Quran the center and[br]axis of its knowledge 0:25:59.244,0:26:02.014 nor did it make the Quran the center and[br]axis of its actions. 0:26:02.014,0:26:05.254 In terms of knowledge, if you visit[br]the religious schools, 0:26:05.254,0:26:09.254 if you look at religious education, [br]philosophy or debates in jurisprudence 0:26:09.254,0:26:13.254 making Quran the axis of your religion[br]and then trying to comprehend the Quran 0:26:13.254,0:26:16.656 as the Quran wants us to do has escaped[br]our knowledge. 0:26:16.656,0:26:20.656 Due to this reason we are left with[br]the stories of virtuous men, fables 0:26:20.656,0:26:26.966 the debates on furu'aat, and those things[br]that have no relevance to our lives 0:26:26.966,0:26:30.376 The most important reality of our life[br]is that which the Quran states as 0:26:30.376,0:26:33.946 the act of leading one's life with the[br]sentiment of accountability before god 0:26:33.946,0:26:36.316 One day I will have to stand in the[br]court of my lord 0:26:36.316,0:26:37.636 and I cannot take any chances. 0:26:37.636,0:26:40.136 I cannot deceive anyone, I cannot [br]do adulteration, 0:26:40.136,0:26:43.726 I cannot be dishonest, I cannot[br]be unjust towards others. 0:26:43.726,0:26:47.216 You will feel this sentiment only when[br] 0:26:47.216,0:26:49.676 you will lead your life with the [br]consciousness that 0:26:49.676,0:26:51.436 you are accountable to your lord. 0:26:51.436,0:26:54.906 And then there is the issue of making [br]aspects of religion such as: 0:26:54.906,0:26:58.906 rituals, the organisation of the society, [br]and reminder of things that are symbolic, 0:26:58.906,0:27:03.704 aspects that are, in fact, supplementary,[br]but replace the real essence of religion. 0:27:03.704,0:27:06.464 The is the aspect that the Quran is [br]explaining here. 0:27:06.464,0:27:10.464 Even today, if Quran becomes [br]a central and axial part of our lives 0:27:10.464,0:27:12.524 then what will be the consequences? 0:27:12.524,0:27:16.214 It will result in you acquiring such a [br]scale in religious matters 0:27:16.214,0:27:20.214 that you will be able to examine [br]everything. 0:27:20.975,0:27:24.975 If you overcome your prejudices, then[br]you will be able to decide 0:27:24.975,0:27:28.975 between good and bad in a jiffy.[br]You will find a way out of 0:27:28.975,0:27:32.975 those metaphysical debates that [br]people found very interesting 0:27:32.975,0:27:36.975 in our tradition and such exceptional[br]people surrendered themselves 0:27:36.975,0:27:39.295 to these debates.[br]Then your entire focus... 0:27:39.295,0:27:43.295 It is obvious that when it becomes[br]clear what God is, 0:27:43.295,0:27:47.295 what his knowledge is like, his attributes[br]and the correct method 0:27:47.295,0:27:50.185 to be accountable in the court of Allah.[br]When these issues become clear 0:27:50.185,0:27:52.826 then you abandon the debates of philosophy[br]and Kalam 0:27:52.826,0:27:55.896 and stand on the correct path, then only[br]your entire focus will be on 0:27:55.896,0:27:58.376 natural sciences and development[br]of your own life. 0:27:58.376,0:28:02.126 It will result in you focusing on [br]scientific disciplines 0:28:02.126,0:28:06.126 and you will abandon superstitions.[br]Quran germinates both these things 0:28:06.126,0:28:11.216 within you when you focus on the[br]Quran. Here it is stated that: 0:28:11.216,0:28:15.216 hold steadfast to this rope of Allah,[br]if you hold firmly the rope of Allah, 0:28:15.216,0:28:18.056 then it will have certain consequences[br]and those consequences are the following: 0:28:18.056,0:28:22.396 kazaalika yubaiyinul laahu lakum [br]aayaatihee la'allakum tahtadoon 0:28:22.444,0:28:27.994 Thus, God explains to you His [br]revelations so that you may be guided, 0:28:27.994,0:28:30.124 that you may be on the right path. 0:28:30.124,0:28:34.124 Waltakum minkum ummatuny yad'oona [br]ilal khairi wa ya'muroona 0:28:34.124,0:28:38.124 bil ma'roofi wa yanhawna 'anil munkar; 0:28:38.124,0:28:42.867 Now muslims have become a community.[br]A system has been established by them. 0:28:42.867,0:28:46.867 They have established their government [br]in Medina, 0:28:46.867,0:28:48.877 even though it is of a tribal nature. 0:28:48.877,0:28:51.277 The community has become organized. 0:28:51.277,0:28:56.326 There is a stage when people profess[br]faith individually, 0:28:56.326,0:29:00.326 they don't even own a piece of land,[br]they are spread throughout the world. 0:29:00.458,0:29:03.108 So, an organisation is not possible[br]in such a scenario. 0:29:03.108,0:29:07.108 But when a society comes into being,[br]when Muslims become a group 0:29:07.108,0:29:10.858 then the Quran tells them that[br]they are in a position to do so. 0:29:11.084,0:29:15.084 First, the Quran gave an introduction:[br]Fear Allah, Obey Him, 0:29:15.084,0:29:17.218 steadfastly hold on to the rope of Allah, 0:29:17.218,0:29:19.628 make the Quran a central and axial [br]part of your life. 0:29:19.628,0:29:22.038 Stay united and let nothing [br]divide you in groups. 0:29:22.038,0:29:23.628 God has been kind to you that 0:29:23.628,0:29:28.921 He has put love between you and[br]made you brothers when you were foes. 0:29:28.921,0:29:32.921 Allah has made this thing clear to you,[br]now stay true to it. 0:29:32.921,0:29:36.921 Stay true to it,[br]it is your collective responsibility. 0:29:36.921,0:29:38.141 In a society... 0:29:38.141,0:29:41.911 Children are born and they go through the[br]stages of early years and adolescence. 0:29:41.911,0:29:44.521 Then they become adults, attain the age [br]of maturity. 0:29:44.521,0:29:46.821 They are involved in a lot of [br]contradictions. 0:29:46.821,0:29:50.551 A society cannot be termed as [br]something that can stay motionlessness. 0:29:50.551,0:29:55.661 Therefore, in a society it is certain [br]that like an individual has a part to 0:29:55.661,0:29:58.763 play in a society by virtue of his [br]individual responsibilities, 0:29:58.763,0:30:01.663 likewise society too has some collective[br]responsibilities. 0:30:01.663,0:30:08.353 For instance, parents cannot say that they[br]have a child and they are feeding him, 0:30:08.353,0:30:12.703 but they do not have a responsibility for[br]his fostering, education and upbringing. 0:30:12.703,0:30:16.179 If they do not foster and raise their [br]children, the society would turn out 0:30:16.179,0:30:17.879 to be a jungle full of animals. 0:30:17.879,0:30:21.879 In a way, there will be kids who would[br]be clueless about 0:30:21.879,0:30:23.449 the traditions of the society. 0:30:23.449,0:30:26.449 They would not want to live their life[br]in any sort of rule or code of conduct. 0:30:26.449,0:30:30.529 Who would be unaware to the basic facts[br]about edification and civilizations. 0:30:30.529,0:30:33.839 They would be alien to any transmissions [br]of civilized code of conduct 0:30:33.839,0:30:34.979 or gentle behavior. 0:30:34.979,0:30:37.299 In terms of their inheritance, these [br]children 0:30:37.299,0:30:39.229 would have received nothing of worth. 0:30:39.229,0:30:40.979 And they would be left without[br]anything. 0:30:40.979,0:30:44.979 Similarly, when a society transforms to be[br]an organized collective of people. 0:30:44.979,0:30:48.269 It is imperative to establish order. 0:30:48.269,0:30:52.269 Hence, even today all of humanity[br]is unanimous about the fact that 0:30:52.269,0:30:56.269 humans cannot be left without any checks[br]and balances. 0:30:57.329,0:31:02.329 Since, man has an innate quality of both[br]good and evil. 0:31:02.329,0:31:06.329 It is always anticipated that people with[br]evil intentions would incorporate in 0:31:06.329,0:31:10.239 evil activities like robbery, fornication,[br]murder etc., 0:31:10.239,0:31:12.179 They would develop discord in society. 0:31:12.179,0:31:16.179 So, in order to tackle these kind of [br]situations, a order is established. 0:31:16.179,0:31:18.269 It used to take the form of tribal laws, 0:31:18.269,0:31:20.519 but now these laws are implemented on[br]a state level. 0:31:20.519,0:31:22.409 This is the work of the government [br]of a nation. 0:31:22.409,0:31:26.229 A complete rule of law is established[br]and implemented in a nation state. 0:31:26.229,0:31:30.229 In a nation state, there are three [br]foundational institutions. 0:31:30.922,0:31:32.582 A judicial system. 0:31:32.582,0:31:35.952 It is evident that if you are [br]incorporating a system of 0:31:35.952,0:31:37.254 reward and punishment. 0:31:37.254,0:31:40.184 Allah has employed this method of[br]reward and reprimand 0:31:40.184,0:31:41.441 on the day of judgement. 0:31:41.441,0:31:45.441 As a corollary of that principle a similar[br]system for reward and punishment 0:31:45.441,0:31:49.441 has emerged in the globe, which is [br]interpreted as the court of law. 0:31:49.441,0:31:53.441 For instance, society comes up[br]with certain laws, code of conduct 0:31:53.441,0:31:56.791 and anyone who rebukes them faces[br]punishment for the same. 0:31:56.791,0:31:59.671 And anyone who lives in consonance with[br]the established law, 0:31:59.671,0:32:02.360 develops a way forward for himself. 0:32:02.360,0:32:07.811 Therefore, justice, judicial system or [br]a system of reward or punishment 0:32:07.811,0:32:09.691 is a pre-requisite for a society. 0:32:09.691,0:32:12.221 It must be established in every society. 0:32:12.221,0:32:17.371 In today's parlance police department is[br]constituted for the same purpose. 0:32:17.371,0:32:21.371 In order words, you establish such a [br]department in the society that 0:32:21.371,0:32:25.932 works like a watchdog to uphold and [br]support good things 0:32:25.932,0:32:30.472 and rebukes anything that is [br]ill-intentioned and crosses its limit. 0:32:30.828,0:32:34.828 All the nations have had this police [br]department from the start, 0:32:34.828,0:32:39.662 even in the tribal societies some people[br]were appointed for a similar kind of job. 0:32:39.662,0:32:42.887 At times, it is impossible to handle the[br]rebellion of states themselves. 0:32:42.887,0:32:47.987 As you say, if you have established a [br]national system, 0:32:47.987,0:32:51.987 demarcated a territory for your state,[br]then you cannot just expect the rebellious 0:32:51.987,0:32:54.437 attitude of people individually but [br]a collective. 0:32:54.437,0:32:56.067 At times an entire nation becomes [br]rebellious. 0:32:56.067,0:32:58.772 As a result, you organise your own [br]army to deal with anything of this nature. 0:32:58.772,0:33:01.732 Therefore, this system of law is nothing [br]but the manifestation 0:33:01.732,0:33:03.671 of the natural attributes of humanity. 0:33:03.671,0:33:05.861 Man would have constituted this system [br]even in the absence 0:33:05.861,0:33:06.862 of any religious teachings. 0:33:06.862,0:33:08.532 Every society accepts it. 0:33:08.532,0:33:12.532 Philosophical debates have their own [br]prominence, but it is a reality that 0:33:12.532,0:33:15.282 we cannot visualize a society without a [br]legal framework. 0:33:15.282,0:33:18.582 Communism tried to envisage a journey[br]without a system of judiciary and police, 0:33:18.582,0:33:20.332 but that could not be fulfilled. 0:33:20.332,0:33:22.392 Because it was against the natural [br]instincts of man. 0:33:22.392,0:33:26.392 Man has such a being that entails [br]a struggle for both good and bad, 0:33:26.804,0:33:30.804 It is a pre-requisite as He has been [br]given the divine inspiration 0:33:30.804,0:33:31.974 for both good and evil. 0:33:31.974,0:33:33.214 There, a society was being [br]organised there. 0:33:33.214,0:33:35.824 The reason I gave this lengthy[br]introduction was that, 0:33:35.824,0:33:39.714 under the Quranic milieu,[br]a society was getting organized, 0:33:39.714,0:33:42.704 Medina emerged as a small nation-state. 0:33:42.704,0:33:46.704 Those Muslims after being given some[br]basic yet fundamental instructions were 0:33:46.704,0:33:49.124 asked to established a code of conduct, 0:33:49.124,0:33:52.244 in order to sustain this aforementioned [br]system in the society. 0:33:52.244,0:33:54.584 Waltakum minkum ummatun 0:33:54.928,0:33:57.828 to accomplish this task, it is[br]required that some individuals 0:33:57.828,0:33:59.218 be deputed from amongst you. 0:33:59.218,0:34:01.247 And what is this task that is [br]to be carried out? 0:34:01.247,0:34:05.936 yad'oona ilal khairi [br]who calls society towards righteousness 0:34:05.936,0:34:08.149 Notice that a different word has[br]been used. 0:34:08.149,0:34:10.088 The word righteousness has been[br]used for virtue; 0:34:10.088,0:34:12.728 you should call towards those things [br]that are meant 0:34:12.728,0:34:14.362 for the betterment of humans 0:34:14.362,0:34:21.128 wa ya'muroona bil ma'roofi[br]enjoin virtue, to enjoin good 0:34:21.128,0:34:25.889 wa yanhawna 'anil munkar[br]and forbid evil. 0:34:26.992,0:34:30.302 Both these words are very important. 0:34:30.302,0:34:34.302 Maroof signifies those things which [br]are agreed upon unanimously 0:34:34.302,0:34:37.602 by each and every individual that[br]they are good deeds 0:34:37.602,0:34:40.572 and Munkar signifies those things which [br]are agreed upon unanimously 0:34:40.572,0:34:42.552 by each and every individual that[br]they are evil deeds. 0:34:42.552,0:34:43.992 The Quran stated that they should[br]do that: 0:34:43.992,0:34:45.722 wa ulaaa'ika humul muflihoon 0:34:45.722,0:34:47.542 [Diligently arrange for this] 0:34:47.542,0:34:52.010 and [remember that those who do so] [br]will only attain salvation. 0:34:52.585,0:34:55.908 This directive is given to the [br]Muslims in their collective capacity: 0:34:55.908,0:34:57.988 in order to hold [steadfast to this [br]directive of the Qur’ān] 0:34:57.988,0:35:00.508 they must depute some people [br]from among themselves. 0:35:00.508,0:35:04.508 In modern times,[br]if you look at the department of police 0:35:04.508,0:35:08.508 it in the light of the [br]Quran, in the light of a muslims society 0:35:08.508,0:35:10.448 it serves this very purpose. 0:35:10.448,0:35:15.828 Their real job is to keep the organisation[br]of the society intact, 0:35:15.828,0:35:21.138 spread righteousness, encourage virtue[br]in the society 0:35:21.138,0:35:23.148 and not let crimes breed in the society. 0:35:23.148,0:35:27.148 To accomplish this task, two arrangements[br]were made by muslims in their society; 0:35:27.674,0:35:30.151 one of them is the same which is [br]done throughout the world 0:35:30.151,0:35:32.901 But the police department has become [br]exclusive to hold people accountable 0:35:32.901,0:35:35.621 who perpetrate acts which [br]are considered as crimes as per law, 0:35:35.621,0:35:37.798 for those acts that are considered [br]cognizable. 0:35:38.200,0:35:42.200 But, in a Muslim society, the institution [br]of a Masjid was created 0:35:42.200,0:35:43.650 for pedagogical reasons. 0:35:43.650,0:35:47.650 Such an institution, such a training [br]institute, such a place of worship 0:35:47.650,0:35:51.650 was constructed where a law was [br]legislated that 0:35:51.650,0:35:55.650 on every Friday, the leader or [br]representative of the Muslims will come, 0:35:55.650,0:35:59.340 who will be accountable to the people [br]and at the same time 0:35:59.340,0:36:01.370 he will instruct and counsel them as well. 0:36:01.370,0:36:04.548 According to this verse, two institutions[br]came into being: 0:36:04.548,0:36:08.548 the institution of police, and an [br]organisation in the form of a Mosque 0:36:08.548,0:36:11.447 which unfortunately became vulnerable[br]to sectarianism. 0:36:11.447,0:36:16.429 There are certain other things as well and[br]we will discuss those in the next session. 0:36:16.429,0:36:18.349 It is because it is a very important [br]verse and 0:36:18.349,0:36:20.499 people have gone on to misunderstand [br]it as well. 0:36:20.499,0:36:23.689 There have been mistakes made with respect[br]to its meaning and subject matter. 0:36:23.689,0:36:25.479 We need a caution on that [br]as well. 0:36:25.479,0:36:30.341 I will mention those things in detail.[br]Let us end it on this note today. 0:36:30.341,0:36:33.411 And now let us have a look at its[br]translation. 0:36:33.411,0:36:35.451 The Quran has stated: 0:36:35.451,0:36:39.451 Believers! If you yield to a group [br]from among these People of the Book, 0:36:39.451,0:36:43.451 they will turn you back [br]from belief to disbelief. 0:36:43.451,0:36:46.511 [Be forewarned of this] [br]and [just reflect] 0:36:46.511,0:36:51.671 how can you disbelieve when [br]God’s verses are being recited to you 0:36:51.671,0:36:56.871 and His own Messenger is [br]among you. [So hold fast to God] 0:36:56.871,0:37:00.911 and [remember that] he [br]who holds fast to God 0:37:00.911,0:37:04.191 [then know that] he shall [br]be guided to the straight path. 0:37:04.757,0:37:06.907 Believers! Fear God as you [br]rightly should, 0:37:06.907,0:37:11.727 and when you leave this world, leave it[br]only as followers of Islam 0:37:11.727,0:37:16.207 and together cling to the rope of God [br]and let nothing divide you 0:37:16.207,0:37:20.267 and remember the favour God has [br]bestowed upon you: 0:37:20.267,0:37:24.267 when you were enemies of one [br]another so He united your hearts 0:37:24.267,0:37:27.499 and with His grace you became brothers 0:37:27.499,0:37:31.499 and [remember] when you stood at [br]the very brink of an abyss of fire; 0:37:31.499,0:37:33.669 then He saved you from it. 0:37:33.669,0:37:38.679 Thus God explains to you His revelations [br]so that you may be guided. 0:37:38.679,0:37:41.919 And let there be appointed [br]among you a number 0:37:41.919,0:37:48.299 which calls towards righteousness, [br]enjoin virtue and forbid evil. 0:37:48.299,0:37:50.359 [Diligently arrange for this] and 0:37:50.359,0:37:53.259 [remember that those who do so] [br]will only attain salvation. 0:37:53.259,0:37:55.015 I say this saying of mine, and 0:37:55.015,0:37:58.000 I seek forgiveness from Allah [br]for me and for you.