O Believers - How many of us are sober in our physical state, yet in our prayer we are not aware of what we are saying? Perhaps the distractions and worries of this world are intoxicating us? Perhaps we are 'under the influence' of our desires and we don’t even realise?
كم من مصلٍّ لم يشرب خمراً لكنه في صلاته لايعلم ما يقول ؛ قد أسكرته الدنيا بمشاغلها
You see, the Qur’an is addressing us… right here, right now. There is a lesson in every verse, even if we don’t think it applies to us directly. Allah instructs us to stay away from alcohol so that we can maintain our focus in prayer and understand the Qur’an. How many worshipers do not drink alcohol, but during their prayers they are not aware of what they are saying? Which desire is stopping you from interacting and understanding the word of Allah? Is it your desire to sleep, to relax or to eat? Is your focus for worldly success, material wealth or social attention? Which desire is it that is clouding your judgment, blinding you from your purpose and preventing you from fulfilling your goals.
My challenge to you this Ramadan. Identify one 'intoxicant' that is preventing you from being aware of what you are saying in prayer. Set yourself a detox plan and commit to removing it from your life during this month of ultimate restraint. This is the month where you have the self discipline to refrain from your most basic halal needs (yes not even water), so what will stop you from removing one 'intoxicant'?
O Allah! Let us reach the month of Ramadan.
1 Comment
Masha-Allah Dr Abdul Hadi. This is a very meaningful reflection with much to learn from and apply. May Allah reward you! We look forward to reading further reflections from yourself iA!