appeared in virtually all the major religious traditions of the world.9 It is true that prior to Islam, in almost every religion, celibacy was considered to be the highest criterion of piety, the fundamental

that he in turn might demonstrate to others that fulfillment may be achieved by total dependence upon what is sacred. Throughout the history of primitive religions, priests have been forbidden sexual activity

Fath al-Bari, 9/275. 17. Fath al-Bari, 9/275. 18. Rawai’ al-Boyan, 1/334. 19. A standard book on Islamic Law. 20. AI-Shaokani, Fath al-Qadir, 3/344. 21. Ibn ‘Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar ‘ala ad-Durr al-Mukhtar

evidence of faith and good works and who exhort others to hold fast to the Truth and remain steadfast. What is expressed in this chapter in terms of faith, good deeds, truth and steadfastness is the need for

make success in the Hereafter his target. He should desire for Heaven and greatly fear Hell. This is what is desired of man. But history tells us that most people have failed to become the desirable beings

first and wishing that their utterances be given supremacy, no matter what the circumstances. If no one considered themselves superior, what would there be to quarrel about?

bearing in mind the principle of construction, rather than engage in confrontation. This is the right Islamic way

form of worship. This rememberance of God is what is most desired of a human being. Therefore, the Quran adjures us to remember God very frequently (33: 41). What is meant by remembrance of God? Abu Bakr Jassas

is a common weakness of human character. In the words of the Quran: “Do they envy others because of what God has granted them out of His bounty.” (4: 54) This shows that jealousy appears when one human being

charged with misconduct that people’s attention is aroused. Without looking into the authenticity of what is being said, they accept without questioning the truth of every adverse comment concerning those

one concocts scandalous stories concerning those in authority, people will immediately take note of what one says: their authority will be undermined; while by bringing them into disrepute, one will instantly

actor. The interviewer put this question to the actor: “You are totally different on the sets from what you are in real life. How do you succeed in performing a role which is different from your actual

despair. What is the solution to this problem? People have only one of two options. The first is to choose a self-discovered profession—a profession that may last lifelong, in which they may achieve what is

of this, today, people who seek to engage in the revival of the Muslim ummah may take the name of Islam, but, in actual fact, they only seek to revive Muslim history. Every movement ostensibly working for

believer is better and more lovable to God than a weak believer, and there is good in both. (Prophet of Islam, Sahih Muslim) THERE are two kinds of people—strong and weak. Believers too can be categorized into

one’s attention. To forsake all forms of false worship, and to serve one God alone, is the essence of Islam. When one does this, one becomes a selfless soul; one thinks of others before oneself. Those who have