By: Uzma Saeed

Uncovering Life’s Purpose: Reflection, Religion, and the Quest for Truth

At some point in life, every person reflects on their existence and ponders the purpose of life. Why? 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 may spend years searching for answers that will quench their thirst for truth. 

Embracing Islam: Overcoming Obstacles, Discovering Divinity

As they delve into a wealth of information, they may stumble across Islam. Many find the answers and their natural conscious attests to the divinity of Islam and they willingly embrace it. However, for others, the process is not as straightforward. They may struggle with fear of the unknown, feeling overwhelmed by the numerous rules, or experiencing a conflict with their own interests. 

To a certain extent, this fear is valid as the laws of Islam can appear to be overwhelming. Some people may feel inadequate in their ability to comply with all the rules and prohibitions. However, it is important to remember that Islam offers guidance to steer our lives towards success and harmony, away from destructive behavior. To overcome reluctance, it is essential to break down the whole into parts and set priorities. 

Oneness in Islam: Revelation, Journey, and Harmonizing Desires

The most crucial aspect of Islam is to accept the Oneness of God. Associating partners with God is considered a grave sin in the eyes of God. Additionally, it’s important to remember that the Quran was revealed over a period of 23 years, and Islamic laws were introduced gradually. Expecting overnight compliance is unrealistic and may even be detrimental to one’s spiritual journey. 

It is important to address the issue of law and desires. While Islam prohibits certain actions, it’s clear that even when looking at statistics alone, these actions are harmful to humans. Regardless of religion, it would be logical and beneficial to refrain from them. 

Alcohol  

Many people might find it difficult to stop drinking. Drinking may be challenging to give up as it may be a source of pleasure, temporarily numbs pain, and has a social element to it. However, Islam prohibits alcohol consumption as it impairs the intellect and causes harm. While some may argue that there are benefits to alcohol, the harm caused far outweighs any potential benefits. Alcohol leads to a wide range of problems, including from dysfunctional families, death, and violence. It is scientifically proven to interfere with the brain’s communication pathways and impair judgment. 

Having seen the pain and lifelong suffering of a young colleague of mine who was hit by a drunk driver, I can assure you that it is not worth it, neither to the person drinking nor to the innocent lives who are shattered forever by a person who chose to consume alcohol.  

Islam promotes the preservation of one’s life, property, and self-respect, and prohibits harm to one’s own body as well as those around us. Using alcohol as an escape mechanism only compounds existing problems and does not provide a lasting solution. 

Hijab 

Women may have initial hesitation to cover up as the modern world conditions them that donning hijab is equal to 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 who define the standards to sell their products at the expense of women. Most of the time the women become increasingly insecure due to the bombardment of these targeted images. The more they try to fit the image, the more they struggle with decreasing self-esteem as if looking different is some kind of defect. Women who start to cover up and dress modestly feel liberated. It’s actually very logical because now they do not have to fit into a certain standard that is pushed upon 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 can never give up their dating partner. Living together without marriage is on the rise in America and so are the social problems. These short-term relationships cause disharmony in society. The children are growing up in unstable and unhealthy environments, consequences of which affect them throughout their lives. Studies indicate that probability of child abuse goes up when a non-biological parent enters the picture.  

Islam encourages healthy relations between both the genders and treats marriage as a building block of society. A healthy marriage leads to a better and more productive society. It provides comfort to women from financial responsibilities and protection to children from external harm.  

Embracing the Path of Gradual Transformation in Islam

The foremost concept to remember is that testifying to Oneness of Allah is the most crucial aspect. Following all the other rules and prohibitions comes after. This is not to say that they are unimportant but rather indicate the priority of actions.  

The teachings of Islam completed in 23 years. The companions of Prophet Mohammad, peace be upon be upon him, did not change overnight. The root of the action lies in the love of Allah and His Messenger, peace be upon him. Once that love is ingrained in the heart then other changes come gradually as the heart is ready to adhere to the principles. It’s a gradual process; one that requires conviction and patience. 

You will not miss out on any goodness if you give up these habits as they are harmful anyways. If you choose to abstain, the result will be a more productive and purposeful life; one which adds value to others and leaves a legacy behind when you are gone.  

So, embrace the truth and let your life be filled with tranquility and peace. Have more questions? Call 877-WhyIslam, you deserve to know! 

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