Combating the Whisperings of Shaytaan

A TALK DELIVERED
BY
HAZRAT MAULANA YUNUS PATEL SAHEB
( DAAMAT BARAKAATUHUM )
AT MUSJID-E-NOOR
[ASHERVILLE ]

“And say : My Lord! I seek refuge with You
from the whisperings (suggestions) of the Shayateen.
And I seek refuge with You, my Lord, lest they
may attend (or come near) me.”
( Surah Al-Mu`minoon 23 : 97/98 )

Foreword
All praises are for Allah Ta’ala, the Executioner of all affairs.
Salaat and Salaam upon the Beloved of Allah,
Sayyedena Muhammad Sallam.
In the scheme of creation, Allah Ta’ala created the earth as the
battlefield between Hazrat Adam (‘Alaihis Salaam), his children,
and Shaytaan and his progeny.
The intense hatred and inbred enmity of Shaytaan for us, the
progeny of Hazrat Adam (‘Alaihis Salaam), stems from him having
been rejected and cursed by Allah Ta’ala for defying and
challenging Allah Ta’ala and refusing to make sajda to Sayyedena
Adam (‘Alaihis Salaam). In the course of Shaytaan’s deadly and
ruthless revenge, a relentless battle between these two forces
ensues till Qiyaamah.
Living in times wherein the evil elements and influences of
Shaytaan are overwhelming and abounding, we need to be all the
more wary against the onslaught of the enemy, Shaytaan. Due to
our ignorance and also our weakness of not been able to recognize
the various ploys and conspiracies of Shaytaan, we fall prey to the
same.
Whilst it may appear difficult to contend with a foe that cannot be
seen, we have been informed by Allah Ta’ala and Raslulullah Sallam
as to how to recognize the enemy and how to overcome him. We
have also been commanded to be on guard to his evil insinuations,
promptings and whisperings and to seek the much needed
protection and assistance of Allah Ta’ala, the Creator of Shaytaan.
In one of Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb’s (Daamat
Barakaatuhum) weekly talks at the Musjid-e-Noor (Asherville),
Hazrat Maulana presented, concisely and simply, all the
requirements, implements and various methods of combat against
Shaytaan and his army, which are drawn from the Qur’aan and
Ahadith, making it easy for us to successfully overpower our
enemy, Shaytaan.
Being of tremendous help to many who were victim to Shaytaan’s
assaults, in various forms, I have, with the fadhl of Allah Ta’ala,
transcribed the talk, entitled, Combating the Whisperings of
Shaytaan , for the benefit of the children of Adam (‘Alaihis
Salaam) in the battle against our enemy, Shaytaan.
May Allah Ta’ala make this book purely for His sake. May He
accept it and may He protect us from the mischief and evil of the
Shayateen. May Allah Ta’ala also grant us all a deep
understanding of the knowledge acquired, accompanied with the
‘taufeeq’ of practice on the commands of Allah Ta’ala and the
teachings of Rasulullah Sallam as explained by our pious and learned
Ulama.

“SO WHEN YOU WANT TO RECITE THE QUR`AAN, SEEK REFUGE
WITH ALLAH FROM SHAYTAAN , THE CURSED ONE.”
[ SURAH AN-NAHL : 98 ]
Ulama-e-Kiraam, dear brothers and respected sisters at the
Madrasa,
As-Salaamu ‘Alaykum wa-Rahmatullah
Having received perhaps over a dozen calls this week, from
people who are suffering anxiety, worry and depression due to
what we term as ‘wasaawis’ of the Shayateen or whisperings of
the Shayateen, I have decided to explain a few matters in regard to
the same.
Troublesome thoughts
A lady called, saying that whilst reading Salaah, the images of
idols come in front of her and there is a whispering in her heart :
“You are not a Muslim. You are a Mushrik (one who associates
partners with Allah Ta’ala), so prostrate (or make sajda) to this
idol.”
Surely if an image like that comes before a person in Salaah, the
person will become terribly worried. And she repeatedly hears
this: “You have become a Mushrik. You have become a Mushrik.”
As a result she was very, very anxious and worried, saying that
due to this worry, she hadn’t slept. Due to the frequency of these
whisperings, she was becoming a nervous wreck. She did not
know as to whether she would die as a Muslim or not. In fact, she
believed that she had lost her Imaan.
Whilst this is one incident, there are very many like this, where
Shaytaan is whispering into the hearts of people, such thoughts
that these people believe that they have lost their Imaan. Due to
various whisperings, some of them do not want to perform Salaah
anymore, some of them do not want to take a bath and obtain
purification and some do not want to read the Qur`aan Sharief.
Strange things are happening. The whisperings and evil effects of
these Shayateen are such, that numerous people have fallen prey
to them.
...Then again, what else would one expect in homes wherein so
many are watching filthy videos, television programmes or
listening to pop and other music. Bad elements draw bad elements.
Music, television, videos, etc. draws the Shayateen and evil Jinn
who are attracted to and enjoy the same kind of filth.
The Power of Shaytaan
What should be understood is that Allah Ta’ala has given
Shaytaan the power of whispering into the heart and mind of a
person.
Of the many and various things from which we seek protection in
Allah Ta’ala, we are taught in Surah Naas to seek protection :
“... from the mischief of the Whisperer (of evil), who withdraws
(after his whisper). He who whispers into the hearts of
mankind...”
Whilst these whisperings cannot be heard, its message is perceived
and comprehended by the heart. As long as we do not believe and
subscribe to what Shaytaan is whispering into our hearts, there’s
no need to become so worried and apprehensive about such
whisperings.
The Sign of Imaan
Nevertheless, I asked this lady a simple question : “Are you
comfortable with this thought, that you have turned away from
Islam and that you are worshipping this idol, which you see in
front of you ?”
She said : “No, I am very worried. I am a Muslim and wish to die
a Muslim.”
To this reply, I said : “That is the sign of Imaan. If you did not
have Imaan, then you would have been extremely comfortable with
that thought.”
The person who is a Christian, Jew, Hindu or Atheist, does not
find discomfort in believing what his respective faith asks him to
believe. The person is not uncomfortable with these ideologies,
doctrines and credences, be it of Christianity, Judaism, Hinduism,
Atheism, etc.
If you were to ask a Christian : “Are you uncomfortable with your
belief in Jesus Christ as the Lord, or the son of God, or in the
doctrine of Trinity : the Lord, the son of God and the Holy spirit,
all in one ?”
He would say : “No, this is my belief and I am very comfortable
with it. In fact, I’d be quite happy if you also believe in the same.”
On the other hand, those Muslims who are tormented with such
thoughts, images or whisperings are most uncomfortable with
them.
Other Examples
Whilst the fussaaq (evildoers) and fujjaar (the immoral and
shameless) are always attended to and accompanied by the
Shayateen, the pious also become the targets of Shaytaan.
One person says that he keeps getting this thought that the
Qur`aan Sharief (Na uzu Billahi min zaalik), is an out dated book. It
cannot solve our worldly problems, in these modern times.
This is not one of those modernists who is asking for a
reformation of the Qur`aan Sharief. This is a pious, young person
and he says that this thought is recurring : “The Qur`aan Sharief
that you believe in, cannot solve modern day problems.” Whereas
he says that his yaqeen (conviction) and belief is that the teachings
of the Qur`aan Sharief are the solution to the problems of all
times.
Another person is troubled by the thought that the beliefs of
Jannat (paradise), Jahannum (Hell), Aakhirah (hereafter), etc. are
merely fairy tales...that there is no truth in this; whereas his deep
hearted belief is that there is a hereafter, a day of judgement,
paradise and hell.
These are not those people who subscribe to or uphold these
beliefs. On the contrary, they are extremely uncomfortable with
these thoughts. In fact, they want a solution desperately. They
want to know how to overcome these thoughts and get rid of them.
I told them that this very feeling of discomfort and unhappiness is
the sign of Imaan. There is therefore no need for so much of worry
and concern.
The Promise
Shaytaan’s endeavor is to mislead. He has asked Allah Ta’ala for
life until the Day of Qiyaamah. The story of Shaytaan is
mentioned in the Qur`aan Sharief :
When Shaytaan was rejected, he said : “My Lord! Give me then
respite till the day the (dead) are resurrected.”
(Surah Sawd : 79)
On being granted life till the Day of Qiyaamah, he declared his
open enmity for all of mankind : “By Your Might, then I will
surely mislead them all – except Your chosen slaves amongst
them, sincere and purified (by Your Grace).”
(Surah Sawd : 82/83)
In Surah A’raaf, Allah Ta’ala has warned and cautioned us :
“...Verily Shaytaan is an open enemy unto you.” And again in
Surah Fatir as well :“Surely Shaytaan is an enemy to you, so treat
him as an enemy...”
Since Shaytaan is our open and declared enemy, he will then most
definitely follow through with his promise ... and what is his
promise ?
He said : “Because You have sent me astray, surely I will sit in
wait against them (human beings) on Your Straight Path. Then I
will come to them from before them and behind them, from their
right and from their left, and You will not find most of them as
thankful ones (i.e. they will not be dutiful to You).”
(Surah A’raaf : 16/17)
Allah Ta’ala in turn said : “Certainly you shall have no authority
over My slaves, except those who follow you of the ‘ghaween’
(Mushrikeen, those who are astray, criminals, polytheists and evil
doers, etc.).”
(Surah Al-Hijr : 42)
Allah Ta’ala also says : “Verily, he has no power over those who
believe and put their trust only in their Lord (Allah).”
(Surah An-Nahl : 99)
Thus, Shaytaan will not have any power, any effect, any force or
any control over those people who truly and sincerely believe in
Allah Ta’ala and place their complete trust in Allah Ta’ala. On
such faith and reliance, Allah Ta’ala will not allow Shaytaan to
mislead them.
Shaytaan will only succeed in misleading those who have made
him their friend, who follow and obey him. If we were to befriend
Shaytaan, then he would certainly mislead and misguide us and
these whisperings would then manifest their profound, yet evil and
adverse effects.
Allah Ta’ala says in the Qur`aan Sharief : “His power is only over
those who obey and follow him (Shaytaan)...”
(Surah An-Nahl : 100)
Whisperings to the Righteous
Shaytaan, however, whispers into the hearts of the good just as he
does to those who are indulging in evil. In a Tafseer (commentary)
of Surah Naas, it is mentioned that those who are making an effort
towards piety, righteousness and gaining the closeness of Allah
Ta’ala and Rasulullah Sallam should also seek protection in Allah
Ta’ala from the whisperings of Shaytaan.
Shaytaan makes a greater effort to mislead the pious through
pride, arrogance and riyaa (show). Just as pride and arrogance
destroyed Shaytaan, the same could result via his whisperings.
The Existence of Shaytaan
The existence of Shaytaan is mentioned in the Qur`aan Sharief,
and if a person does not believe in this, then he is not a Muslim, he
is not a Mu`min (Believer). Just as Allah Ta’ala created Hazrat
Adam (‘Alaihis Salaam), Allah Ta’ala created Shaytaan.
Just to briefly make mention : Shaytaan belongs to the species of
Jinn whose origin and essential element is fire, like the origin and
substance of man is sand. The Jinn were created long before man
was created and had inhabited this earth. Allah Ta’ala mentions
their history and many other details in the Qur`aan Sharief.
“And the Jinn, We created aforetime from the smokeless
flame of fire.”
(Surah Al-Hijr :27)
Like mankind comprises of both the virtuous and the evil from
amongst men and women, so too are there the good and the bad
amongst the male and female Jinn. Whilst they can see us, we
cannot see them.
Allah Ta’ala mentions :“...Verily, he (Shaytaan) and his tribe see
you from where you cannot see them...”
(Surah Al-A’raaf :27)
The name of Shaytaan was initially Azazeel and he was a great
Aabid (worshipper) of Allah Ta’ala. However, due to pride and
arrogance, he rejected the order of Allah Ta’ala to prostrate to
Adam (‘Alaihis Salaam) and was thus to become the accursed
Iblees/Shaytaan.
“...He was one of the Jinns; he disobeyed the command of his
Lord...”
(Surah Kahf :50)
In Ma’ariful Qur`aan, it is mentioned in the Tafseer (commentary)
of Surah Baqarah that the name Iblees comes from the root
‘Balas’, which means ‘to be disappointed’. This signifies “One
who has lost all hope of receiving the grace of Allah.” ‘Shaytaan’
comes from the root ‘Shatn’, which means ‘to be far away’ and
hence signifies ‘One who has been removed far away from the
Mercy of Allah’.
Mufti Muhammad Shafee Saheb (Rahmatullah ‘alaih), the author of
Ma’ariful Qur`aan, also makes mention that the root ‘Shayt’
means ‘the excess of anger and rage’, and may possibly be the
basis of the word Shaytaan.
Blaming his downfall on Aadam (‘Alaihis Salaam), Shaytaan vowed
to lead the children of Aadam (‘Alaihis Salaam) astray. Therefore
his every effort is towards the path of deviation, towards the fire
which is his ultimate end.
Belief in the story of Shaytaan’s rejection to prostrate before
Hazrat Aadam (‘Alaihis Salaam) is an essential part of Islamic
belief.
Nevertheless, in this gathering, I am not talking to those people
who do not believe in the Qur`aan Sharief. I am talking to
believers, who believe that just as Allah Ta’ala created us, human
beings, Allah Ta’ala also created Shaytaan.
Extremes
There are two extremes : One is of those people who say that there
is no such thing as Shaytaan. Their ill-considered philosophy in
life is : Seeing is believing and hearing is deceiving. This is not
something a Muslim goes by because our Imaan, in itself, is on
that which we have not seen – Jannat, Jahannum, Qiyaamah, Pul-
siraat, etc.
In this material, physical world, there are so many things which
we do not see with our naked eye, but which we have accepted
and believe in. For example : the very air that we breathe. What of
bacteria ? Science tells us that there are millions of micro-
organisms to be found everywhere, although not always visible to
the naked eye and we do not refute such information.
The very fact that such people do not believe in Shaytaan indicates
to them having been ensnared by Shaytaan.
The other group is of those who believe that Shaytaan, himself, is
the Lord. This group is otherwise known as the Satanic cult. They
believe in Shaytaan as being the Lord and the God and they
worship him. ...So these are two extremes.
Nevertheless, these are not the beliefs of a Muslim.
Shaytaan’s Influence
A doubt may however arise in the minds of some : How does one
Shaytaan influence millions ? ...Rasulullah e has explained this
simply, by informing us that each one of us has an angel that
encourages us to virtue, and a Shaytaan that goads us to indulge in
evil.
The chief of all these Shayateen is Iblees, who was rejected by
Allah Ta’ala, but accompanying each person is one Shaytaan.
Then again an analogy can be cited : With the technology, satellite
and speedy communication systems, we see how one person can
influence the whole world. One Shaytaan in the form of a human
being expresses a new ideology, scheme, etc. and the human race
is introduced to Communism, Socialism, Fascism, etc. ...Since
Shaytaan’s work force is from amongst men and jinn, it is easy to
understand how his influence can be so far-reaching.
Despite Shaytaan’s apparent influence, Allah Ta’ala says in Surah
Nisaa : “Surely the plot of Shaytaan is ever feeble.” This verse
relates to those who believe in Allah Ta’ala. Shaytaan has got no
power, no control, no force, no authority and no domination over
those who submit themselves and trust fully in Allah Ta’ala.
...What then must be done when these type of thoughts occur ?
Thoughts in Salaah
If these thoughts occur during Salaah, and the person tries fighting
these thoughts, then the Salaat will come to an end but these
thoughts will not. At the end of the Salaat, the person will then say
that the entire Salaat went by in thinking about what was coming
into his mind. This is the end result of fighting these thoughts
...the person is so occupied with thoughts that he forgets that he is
supposed to be having a conversation with Allah Ta’ala.
The moment these thoughts surface and you realize that you are
going on some other track in the Salaat, then immediately bring
your mind back to the Salaat. Instead of fighting these thoughts,
ponder over the Surah that you are reading. It is, therefore, always
preferable to read a Surah in our Sunnat or Nafl Salaat which we
are not very fast at reading or which we do not normally read;
much like a Hafez who is reciting his newly learnt ‘sabaq’
(lesson).
For so many people, the only Surahs they read in Salaat are Surah
Kauthar and Surah Ikhlaas. Because they know these and because
these Surahs have a minimum number of ayaah (verses) required,
they keep reading the same in every Salaat – Sunnat, Witr and
Nafl, even Fardh. In so doing the person generally only realizes
that he has completed his Salaat when he makes the final Salaam.
If he now reads Surah Teen in his Witr Salaat, or he recites Wal
Aadiyat in his Sunnat Salaat, then because this is not his normal
reading habit, he is going to concentrate and read.
Also, learn the meaning of at least those Surahs which are
normally read in Salaah. Having learnt the meaning, reflect and
ponder over the message conveyed.
Thirdly, contemplate that you are standing before Allah Ta’ala and
this is how we are going to stand on the Day of Judgement,
accountable and answerable for all that we have done. Bring the
Azmath (Greatness) of Allah Ta’ala into the heart and then, Insha-
Allah, that Salaat will improve.
Wasaawis (whisperings) will come but if we are going to fight
them, then even outside our Salaah they will continue to harass,
upset and disturb us. We just have to ignore them.
A National Highway
A general point to note is that whilst stray thoughts will make their
way into the mind of a person (in Salaah and outside Salaah), one
should not deliberately introduce such thoughts into the mind.
The mind is like a National highway and on a national highway all
kinds of vehicles are to be found : cars, scooters, trucks, lorries,
tractors, carts, etc. Sometimes animals too are found crossing such
highways like cats, dogs, horses and even pigs.
In a similar manner, on the National highway of the mind all kinds
of thoughts will cross : good thoughts, bad thoughts, good ideas,
bad ideas, good intentions and bad intentions.
A person on a journey does not lose sight of his destination when
travelling on a highway. He does not stop, gaze and stare at the
other vehicles or animals on that highway. He focuses his mind on
his destination and continues with his journey. In a similar vein,
when evil thoughts come into the mind and are not purposely
brought, then ignore them. Neither fight them nor entertain them.
Pure Imaan
The Sahabah-e-Kiraam (ra), who had been blessed with the
company of Rasulullah Sallam, complained to Nabi Sallam of the same
evil thoughts. There are different incidents mentioned in the
Ahadith.
Once a person said to Nabi Sallam : “Sometimes such evil thoughts
occur to me that I would rather be burnt to ashes than make a
mention of them.” (e.g. Who created Allah Ta’ala ?)
Nabi Sallam replied : “Praise and thanks be to Allah who has turned
this affair into one of evil suggestions.” In other words, it is the
grace of Allah Ta’ala that He has made these thoughts remain
thoughts only and that these had not then turned into doubt and
evil deeds.
It is mentioned in another narration that some of the Sahabah (ra)
presented themselves to Rasulullah Sallam and said: “Our condition is
that sometimes we experience such evil thoughts and sentiments in
our hearts that it is most painful to even mention them.”
Rasulullah e said to them : “But that is pure faith.” ... To feel
disturbed and uneasy at such thoughts and sentiments is a sign of
good Imaan.
The Notorious Thief
Where does a person steal or where does a thief break in ? Where
there are valuable goods.
Have you heard of a hold-up in a shack ? ... No. Even if you leave
a house empty with the door and windows wide open, then what
need would there be to break in when there is absolutely nothing
to steal ? A thief will break into a home or some place where
there’s gold, silver and a lot of cash. ...However in the new South
Africa, doors, windows, roofing and tiling too will disappear, so
don’t even leave empty houses accessible.
Shaytaan, who is notorious and infamous for his thieving exploits,
sees the wealth of Imaan in the heart of the Mu`min. He detects
that precious treasure of the Ishq of Allah Ta’ala.
In the realm of jealousy and malice and in the ‘skill’ of thieving
none can match the likes of Shaytaan. He is the robber, swindler,
mugger, looter and hijacker of the Muslim. He makes every effort
and endeavour; he conspires, plots and plans; he assaults and he
attacks that heart, only to snatch this invaluable commodity of
Imaan. This is his mission.
Now this poor person tries to fight these thoughts and by fighting
them, he gets nowhere.
The Existence of Allah
One person was a complete Atheist before being guided to Islam.
After accepting Islam he was again being plagued with thoughts
about the existence of Allah Ta’ala. These thoughts were from
Shaytaan. His unhappiness and discomfort was, in itself (as has
been mentioned), a clear indication of Imaan. An atheist will not
be concerned by such thoughts. In fact, atheists propagate such
thoughts and beliefs.
I told this person that at such times he should immediately read :
“Aamantu Billahi wa Rusulih.” He should also read Imaan-e-
Mujmal and Imaan-e-Mufassal, with an understanding of its
meaning, and “La haula wala quwata illa Billah”.
Thereafter he should talk to Shaytaan, eventhough he does not see
him. Tell him : “The Proof that Allah Ta’ala exists is in my own
person. If Allah Ta’ala was not existing, I would not have been
created. I would not have these eyes, ears, etc.” ...All of which
have been created in the darkness of the womb. Or say to him : “I
do not see my intelligence but believe I am intelligent.”
The very fact that no two person’s thumbprints are the same; that
each of us has our own special fingerprints, clearly alludes to a
Creator and Fashioner. Everything in and around us points to the
existence of our Maker, Allah Ta’ala. There is no shortage of
evidence to prove the existence of Allah Ta’ala. This, however, is
a different subject.
The Rejected Dog
Mullah Ali Qaari (Rahmatullah ‘alaih), in his commentary of
Mishkaat Sharief, which is entitled Mirqaat, states that Shaytaan
is like a dog, outside at the door, having been chased out by its
owner.
My Sheikh, Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb
(Daamat Barakaatuhum), had explained in one of his talks that some
people who own palatial homes, keep huge dogs from foreign
countries.
What are these dogs kept for ? ...To bark at people when they
come. In doing so, these people are kept at bay and are thus unable
to enter that house.
What would happen if a person, wanting to enter the house, begins
to fight that dog ? When that dog barks viciously and
threateningly, the person challenges the dog : “I’m going to fight
you.”. The dog barks, so he also barks at the dog ... and the bark
of some dogs is like the roar of a lion.
If this person engages the dog in a barking contest, he is not going
to enter that house.
All he has to simply do is ring the bell. The master of the dog will
come out and he will address the dog in some code language. The
dog will then drop its tail and sit down, or it will then move away.
Is not this the sensible thing to do ? ...Just summon the master of
the dog.
Turn towards Allah
Therefore, when this Shaytaan barks (whispers), then don’t argue
with him. Don’t bark back. His knowledge is extensive . He has
got the knowledge of all the Shariats. At such times, read
‘Ta’awwuz’... “A’oozu billahi minash shaytaanir rajeem.” Seek
protection in Allah Ta’ala from the mischief of this rejected dog,
Shaytaan.
Allah Ta’ala did not direct us to challenge and fight Shaytaan. He
did not also say that we punch, kick, boot and shoot him. Allah
Ta’ala says : ‘You turn towards Me.’
It is mentioned in the Qur`aan Sharief : “And if an evil whisper
comes to you from Shaytaan then seek refuge with Allah. Verily,
He is All-Hearer, All Knower.”
(Surah Al-A’raf : 200)
This Shaytaan is the dog of Allah Ta’ala that does not want the
believer, in fact, all of mankind to come to Allah Ta’ala. Shaytaan
knows that if a person has to establish ‘nisbat’ (a connection) with
Allah Ta’ala and enjoy the sweet taste of obedience to Allah
Ta’ala, he will then never go towards anything sinful.
Since Shaytaan does not want any of us to receive Allah Ta’ala’s
Mercy and enjoy the bounties of His Eternal pleasure, he will then
surely bark.
Don’t waste time and energy fighting a rejected dog; turn towards
Allah Ta’ala and He will grant protection.
An Attribute of the Pious
Allah Ta’ala states : “Verily, those who are the pious, when an
evil thought comes to them from Shaytaan, they remember (Allah),
and (indeed) they then see (aright).”
(Surah Al-A’raaf : 201)
When those who are pious are affected by the evil, wicked
promptings of Shaytaan, then their retrogression to negligence is
very temporary. They recognize the influence of Shaytaan quickly
and immediately remember Allah Ta’ala. In discerning the reality
of these promptings, they are able to distinguish right from wrong.
Another Prescribed Remedy
There is a Hadith which is quoted in Mishkaat Sharief : Nabi Sallam
said that if a person is disturbed with the ‘wasaawis’ (whisperings)
of Shaytaan then he should read : “Aamantu billahi wa rusulih” –
I believe in Allah and His messengers.
When the person recites this, Allah Ta’ala will protect him. This is
also applicable to those evil thoughts which come into the mind
and encourage a person to do something that is Haraam
(forbidden). Shaytaan whispers (the nafs too is in the forefront of
this encouragement to evil) : “Look at this beautiful woman.”,
“Let’s go to the cinema.” , “Let’s switch on the television and
watch the filthy movie.”, “Let’s read this filthy novel.”, “Let’s
steal.”, “Let’s go to the casino.”, “Let’s enjoy a high on Crack,
Heroin or liquor.”, etc.
At this time read plenty of times “Aamantu billahi wa rusulih”
with yaqeen (conviction) and faith in Allah Ta’ala, and occupy the
mind in something else which is permissible.
Seeking guidance or misguidance
When it comes to the recitation of the Qur`aan Sharief as well,
Allah Ta’ala says in the verse of the Qur`aan Sharief which I
recited : “So when you want to recite the Qur`aan, seek refuge
with Allah Ta’ala from Shaytaan, the cursed one.”
Therefore, before recitation of the Qur`aan Sharief read
‘Ta’awwuz’ or seek protection in Allah Ta’ala. Why ? ...Because
this Qur`aan Sharief is the means of guidance. It has been revealed
to guide mankind and Shaytaan does not want any of us to be
guided. Therefore, whilst reciting the Qur`aan Sharief also, he is
liable to introduce such thoughts in one’s mind that could even
lead one astray.
There are so many people who read the Qur`aan Sharief and go
astray. This is due to the pre-conceived ideas they entertain. They
open the Qur`aan Sharief to find ayaah (verses) which would
justify their evil actions. They then find some verse, give a wrong
interpretation and go astray.
When a person discards obedience to Allah Ta’ala and is arrogant
and scornful towards the commands of Allah Ta’ala, allowing his
evil nafs to lead him astray then he buys humiliation and disgrace.
It should be understood that a person is led astray when he,
himself, chooses to go astray. Allah Ta’ala’s Sifat (attribute) of
“Mudhil” (the One who Misguides) is then focussed on him.
For the person who wants Hidayat (Guidance), Allah Ta’ala
guides him. When a person makes a concerted effort for the same,
then he will experience as to how Allah Ta’ala manifests His
‘Sifat’ of ‘Haadi’ – the One who Guides.
Allah Ta’ala also states in regard to the Qur`aan Sharief : “He
misleads many by this book and guides many thereby.”
(Surah Baqarah :26)
Those in quest of Divine guidance will find the Qur`aan Sharief
replete with guidance, whilst those corrupted by nafs and Shaytaan
fall deep into transgression and misguidance.
We therefore need to seek protection in Allah Ta’ala when reciting
the Qur`aan Sharief. It will be a means of being recipient to our
greatest need : Hidayat. Allah Ta’ala will then inspire us on the
Siratul Mustaqeem (the Straight Path).
The Revelation of Surah Falaq and
Surah Naas
It comes to mind that Allah Ta’ala begins the last two Surahs of
the Qur`aan Sharief, Surah Falaq and Surah Naas, with “A’oozu”.
In fact, it was these same Surahs which were revealed when
Rasulullah Sallam was affected by Jadu and Seher.
Due to jealousy and enmity, Labeed ibn Aasim (a Jew) and his
daughters had cast a spell on Rasulullah Sallam. The effect of this Jadu
on Rasulullah Sallam was that sometimes he would do a thing and then
forget whether he did that or not.
Since he was a Nabi of Allah Ta’ala, this had nothing to do with
the Ahkaam (laws) of Shariah or with the Wahi or Qur`aanic
verses that were revealed to him. There was no question of that
Jadu having any effect in this regard.
This effect was in relation to his worldly occupations and
responsibilities. He would do something and later think he had not
done so, or he would not undertake some work and think that he
had completed it. The eleven ayaah (verses) of Surah Falaq and
Surah Naas were then revealed to remove the effects of this
witchcraft.
Eleven knots had been tied on a piece of gut and a needle was
placed in each knot and this was buried together with the hair of
Nabi Sallam. When Nabi Sallam recited these Surahs, then for each ayat
recited, a knot opened, until finally all the knots were undone and
Nabi Sallam was cured.
Treatment
There are many people who mislead others by saying that there is
black magic and there is white magic. If it’s black magic then you
need to go to the Sungoma or visit some temple, and if it’s white
magic then you need to go to a Molvi Saheb or Taweez Wala.
There is no such thing as ‘white’ magic. All Seher is referred to as
black magic or witchcraft. The same verses of the Qur`aan Sharief
are a remedy for any kind of Seher or Jadu.
Moreover, when sick then do not immediately suspect Jadu and
rush to ‘Taweez walas’, many of whom are not only frauds but are
unscrupulous money makers as well. See a good doctor, make dua
and seek from Allah Ta’ala. If all fails and the symptoms are of
Seher then see a reputable ‘Aamil’.
Apart from this, Shaikhul Hadith, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad
Zakariyya (Rahmatullah ‘alaih) emphasized that we should try to
remain in the state of wudhu and taharat (purification) for
protection from the effects of Jinn and Jadu.
Benefits of the ‘Quls’
In a Hadith, Rasulullah Sallam had mentioned : “Whoever recites
Surah Ikhlaas, Falaq and Naas will be safeguarded from all
difficulties.”
Hazrat Abdullah ibn Khubaib (ra) mentions in one narration that
one dark and rainy night, they went out in search of Nabi Sallam and
they found Nabi Sallam. Rasulullah Sallam said: “‘Qul’ (Say).”
Hazrat Abdullah ibn Khubaib (ra) asked Nabi Sallam : “What must I
say ?”
He said : “Read Surah Ikhlaas, Surah Falaq and Surah Naas
thrice every morning, it will suffice from everything.”
This wazeefa which Nabi Sallam taught Hazrat Abdullah ibn Khubaib
(ra) was not only for him. It is for the Ummat until the Day of
Qiyaamah. ...Since we cannot fight this dog of Allah Ta’ala, we
will have to seek protection in Allah Ta’ala.
The complete Surahs of Surah Ikhlaas, Surah Falaq and Surah
Naas have to be read thrice.
Why I say that each Surah be read thrice, is because one person
was told that if he reads Yaseen Sharief 41 times, then he would,
Insha-Allah, be successful in a certain project of his, that was to be
undertaken. Some Allah waala must have told him to read Yaseen
Sharief 41 times, whereas in these days we no longer even
prescribe such an amount.
In any case, after a few days, this person came back and was
asked: “Was your work accomplished?”
He said : “No, I read ‘Yaseen’ 41 times but nothing happened.”
He was asked : “How did you read it?”
He said : “Yaseen, Yaseen, Yaseen – 41 times.”
So we must read these 3 Quls, 3 times each.
Importance
Mulla Ali Qaari (Rahmatullah ‘alaih) states in Mirqaat, his
commentary of Mishkaat Sharief, that these Surahs are a sufficient
protection from all evil. In fact, he adds that if a person does not
have the time, then this wazeefa will suffice for all other wazeefas
that would otherwise have been read.
Wherever my Sheikh, Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Muhammad
Akhtar Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum), goes in the world, he lays
great emphasis on this ‘wazeefa’; that these 3 Quls be read daily
and habitually at Fajr and Maghrib time.
He explains that this is a protection against Jadu, Seher, the
mischief of Shaytaan and the mischief of one’s nafs and all other
mischiefs, evils and fitnahs which are prevalent everywhere.
Therefore, these 3 Surahs should be recited for protection against
external and internal elements which affect the lives of
individuals. We should not forget that like the Shayateen spread
evil, mischief and corruption, so too do those who have been
strongly influenced by the Shayateen. They too are instrumental in
the harm and evil which affects others.
Nevertheless, the pre-condition for the benefits of the
recitation of the ‘Quls’ is that it be read with sincerity and
faith.
A Powerful Bullet
However, we should keep in mind that Nabi Sallam was not telling
people like us who have got no Salaah, no Zakaat, no Fasting, etc.
We have got all the sins in our lives and then we say that we read
the wazeefa and nothing happens. Taweezes and wazeefas will
not prevent the punishment of Allah Ta’ala which descends on
disobedience.
No doubt, the three “Quls” are a powerful bullet. Unfortunately
this bullet is not in the gun. The ‘gun’ referred to, is the gun of
Imaan and Islam – true submission.
If a person has to take just the bullet, hold it in his hand and aim at
a lion in the Kruger National Park, then that lion will have him
like a samoosa before the main meal. This bullet of the three
“Quls” (in fact, all wazeefas) has to be loaded into the gun of
Obedience to Allah Ta’ala, for its powerful results.
Nabi Sallam was addressing the Sahaba (ra) and the Sahabah (his
companions) were those who preferred to give their lives than do
anything against the hukm (order) of Allah Ta’ala and Nabi Sallam. If
our wazeefa is not having an effect, then it’s OUR problem.
If there is a certain model of car and all the cars are moving very
well and fast but the car that I purchased is not moving, then I will
say that there’s something wrong with the engine of my car. Not
that all cars of this model and make are faulty.
When we read our ‘wazeefas’ with yaqeen (conviction) in Allah
Ta’ala then, Insha-Allah, Allah Ta’ala WILL protect. If for some
reason, after reading the wazeefa, still some harm befalls a person,
then he must have 100% yaqeen that there was ‘khair’(goodness)
in it.
It may be that Allah Ta’ala wants to reward this person with
something much, much better, or it may be that there was one big
calamity that was to befall the person. With the ‘barakat’
(blessing) of this wazeefa, Allah Ta’ala removed that calamity,
saved him and is going to reward him in some other way in the
Aakhirat (Hereafter).
More often than not, these wazeefas just come like a barrier in
front of the problem, disaster or difficulty.
Shaqiq Balkhi (RA) against Shaytaan
I recall in one of the Jum’uah talks when I was discussing Surah
Falaq and Surah Naas, I mentioned Hazrat Shaqiq Balkhi
(Rahmatullah ‘alaih). Hazrat Shaqiq Balkhi (Rahmatullah ‘alaih), who
was a great Wali, said that not a single day passed in his life but
that Shaytaan came to him from the four directions he has
promised. Shaytaan’s effort on the Auliya Allah is even greater.
I will relate to you, in my own words, a verbal exchange between
Shaytaan and Shaqiq Balkhi ((Rahmatullah ‘alaih)). Hazrat Shaqiq
Balkhi ((Rahmatullah ‘alaih)) explained that Shaytaan comes from
the front (as he said he would) and he whispers : “Why are you so
concerned about displeasing Allah Ta’ala and why are you so
wary of sins ? Why do you exert yourself in so much of
Ibaadah?... Enjoy yourself. Allah Ta’ala is Ghafur-ur-Raheem.”
Shaytaan approaches many in the same manner, whispering : Why
engage yourself in Ibaadat, Zikr, Tilawat, etc ? Why are you so
particular in performing Salaah 5 times a day, in paying Zakaat
and in fasting? Why are you so rigid and strict in conforming to
Shariah ? Allah Ta’ala is Ghafur-ur-Raheem.
Shaqiq Balkhi ((Rahmatullah ‘alaih)) said : “I reply : ‘Yes, indeed
Allah Ta’ala is Ghafur-ur-Raheem; but for whom?’”
“AND VERILY, I AM INDEED FORGIVING TO HIM WHO REPENTS,
BELIEVES (IN MY ONENESS, AND ASSOCIATES NONE IN WORSHIP
WITH ME) AND DOES RIGHTEOUS GOOD DEEDS, AND THEN
REMAINS CONSTANT IN DOING THEM (TILL DEATH).”
[SURAH TA-HA : 82]
Allah Ta’ala’s Forgiveness extends to those who make sincere
Taubah and Istighfaar, believe in Allah Ta’ala, do Amal-e-Sawleh
(righteous deeds and actions) and remain steadfast.
Effort
We know that in worldly matters a person always makes a
concerted effort in the right direction and then waits for results.
The farmer ploughs the land, plants the seeds, waters the ground
and then waits for results. We haven’t heard of a farmer just
scattering the seeds on dry land and thereafter saying that he is
waiting for a good crop of wheat. Nothing will grow there.
In the same way, we have to make the correct effort even when it
comes to our Deen. With sincere Taubah and Istighfaar followed
through with Amal-e-Sawleh, then we expect Allah Ta’ala to be
Ghafur-ur-Raheem (The Most Forgiving and Most Merciful).
Deceit
The conspiracies of Shaytaan are numerous and incessant. One of
his deceptions is that he encourages and leads a person to commit
sins with this very thought that Allah Ta’ala is Ghafur-ur-Raheem.
This generally leads a person to be indifferent to the Ahkaam
(laws) of Shariah and even flagrantly and deliberately disobedient
to Allah Ta’ala.
Allah Ta’ala thus warns us explicitly in the Qur`aan Sharief : “Let
not the deceiver (Shaytaan) beguile you in regard to Allah.” ...
Don’t be misled by Shaytaan to commit sins because Allah Ta’ala
is The Most Forgiving and Most Merciful.
Whilst Allah Ta’ala is indeed Ghafur-ur-Raheem, He is also
Muntaqim – One who takes Retribution. Out of His kindness,
Allah Ta’ala gives to us numerous opportunities to make amends
and return to His Obedience. If we still persist and insist on sin,
and we are bent on disobedience, then His Punishment is
something that cannot be escaped.
In fact, the same Shaytaan who, out of absolute spite, invites us to
the disobedience of Allah Ta’ala in every cunning and conniving
way had, himself, said : “...Verily! I fear Allah for Allah is severe
in punishment.”
(Surah Anfaal :48)
...These are the words of the same one who whispers that Allah
Ta’ala is Ghafur-ur-Raheem. Is this then not food for thought ?
Back Answering Shaytaan
When assaulted by the whisperings of Shaytaan, Hazrat Shaqiq
Balkhi (Rahmatullah ‘alaih) counters this attack by back answering
him. This is what we have to learn. In some instances, this is what
should be done.
Sometimes, when you are on your own (as I told this lady) then
talk to Shaytaan, even though he is invisible.
When people are around, then don’t, because they may doubt your
sanity. They may have you admitted into an asylum. So when you
are alone, then you have to sometimes talk to this Shaytaan. When
he says : “You have become a disbeliever in Allah Ta’ala.”, you
must say : “I AM A MUSLIM. I BELIEVE IN THE ONENESS OF
ALLAH TA’ALA AND TESTIFY THAT SAYYEDENA MUHAMMAD SALLAM
IS HIS FINAL MESSENGER.”
Then there are some people who experience the problem of
‘wasaawis’ in this way : They make wudhu for so long and they’re
not satisfied. They wash their hands and continue washing, 24
times, 35 times but they are still not satisfied that the hand is
washed properly.
If Shaytaan says, after you have washed your hand, in a proper
manner, 3 times (in wudhu): “It has not been washed properly.”
or “Your wudhu is not complete.”
Now you have to say (if there are people sitting next to you, then
in your mind) : “No, I am satisfied that it is complete and I am
going to make my Salaat.”
Shaytaan will then whisper : “But your Salaat will not be valid.”
You say : “Never mind if it’s not valid, but I am going to make it.”
And then see how he disappears.
But the moment you give in – it’s going to worry you.
Wudhu
Shaytaan comes in different ways. Nabi Sallam said that to wash more
than 3 times in wudhu is not permissible. Those people who
remain at the taps and keep washing half a dozen times, should
understand that it is Makrooh even if you are at the sea-shore to
wash more than 3 times whilst making wudhu.
This was the great wisdom and great mercy of Nabi Sallam for people
like us. Otherwise Shaytaan would have whispered that our wudhu
is not complete and we would have gone on washing and washing
and the time of Salaah would have expired.
It is narrated by Imam Abu Dawood (Rahmatullah ‘alaih) that when
Abdullah bin Mughaffal (ra) heard his son making dua : “O
Allah, I ask Thee a white palace on the right of paradise when I
enter it.”, he advised his son to ask Allah Ta’ala for Jannat and
seek refuge in Him from Jahannum, for he said that he had heard
Rasulullah Sallam say : “In this community there will be some people
who will exceed the limits in purification as well as supplication.”
Exceeding the limits in purification refers to washing the limbs
more than the Sunnat method of three times in wudhu and ghusl,
using excessive water and washing to such an extent that one
reaches the limit of ‘waswaas’ (whisperings) and ‘wehm’ (doubts).
A person would exceed the limits of supplication (dua) by asking
Allah Ta’ala for unlawful things, or asking Allah Ta’ala in a
manner which is against the etiquette of asking.
Other Whisperings
Sometimes Shaytaan makes a person remain in the toilet for a
long, long time, creating the doubt that Istinja* is not complete.
Sometimes, before the person can commence his Salaah, Shaytaan
whispers : “You haven’t made the niyyat right.” and the person is
taking his own time. The Imam is gone in ruku and he is still
making his niyyat (intention).
Similarly, there are people who are washing their clothes, dozens
of times and they are not satisfied. In the case of young couples,
who are plagued by the same whisperings, they are put off from
taking a Fardh bath. This keeps them in a state of impurity most of
the time.
Just wash properly as directed by Shariah and ignore doubts.
[* Purifying oneself after answering the call of nature by using clean water, etc.]
Doubts
Once some Sahabah (ra) were passing through a jungle and they
came across a large pond. A Sahabi (ra) said that animals could
have come, drunk that water or urinated therein. Hazrat Umar (ra)
asked: “Has anyone seen any animal ?”
They replied : “No.”
He then said : “So make wudhu.”
Again, simply ignore the doubts that Shaytaan whispers into the
mind.
The Second Attack
Then Shaqiq Balkhi (Rahmatullah ‘alaih) says : “Shaytaan comes
from my right hand side and attacks. He attacks me by whispering
into my mind : ‘How long are you going to be tied down to Halaal
and Haraam in earning a living ? What of your concern for your
wife, children and grand-children ? It must not be that you leave
them poverty stricken and in such dire straits that they suffer
starvation.’”
This is another manner in which Shaytaan whispers to us : How
long are you going to restrain yourself from all this Haraam ? You
should go out of your way : accumulate, earn and make a packet
for yourself in whichever way, adopting any means – Halaal or
Haraam – for your livelihood. And why worry about closing shop
every day come Zuhr and Asr ? As it is business is bad; you will
only run at a greater loss.
He continues with his evil counsel : You need not be so cautious
and scrupulous in holding back from interest, gambling money,
stolen money or anything Haraam ? Nor should you be so careful
in not buying and selling stolen goods, or in taking someone else’s
share of the inheritance ?...
If the merchandise, properties, monies, etc. do not rightfully
belong to the person, then no matter how much his heart desires,
he says : “No, if it is not due to me in accordance with the
Qur`aan and the Ahadith of Nabi e, then it will never bring
barkat in my life. It will make my life miserable and Allah Ta’ala
will make sure that money goes out some way or the other.”
Shaqiq Balkhi (Rahmatullah ‘alaih) says: “I reply to Shaytaan at
that time :
“AND THERE IS NO LIVING BEING THAT MOVES ON EARTH, BUT
HIS SUSTENANCE DEPENDS ON ALLAH ...”
[SURAH HOOD : 6]
It is Allah Ta’ala that controls sustenance. He has taken it upon
Himself to provide the sustenance of every creature He has created
on this earth. Whosoever and whatsoever Allah Ta’ala has given
life, Allah Ta’ala has also destined what he is going to receive as
sustenance. His sustenance will not fail to reach him.
All one has to do is make use of the Halaal means that Allah
Ta’ala has created to earn a living and Allah Ta’ala will provide.
Rizq
If you take two persons of equal intelligence, give both of them an
equal amount of money and then give both of them prime spots in
the bazaar or marketplace. Provide for both of them the same
stock, of the same quality. They are of equal standing. At the end
of the month, ask them both : “How much business did you
make?”
Even if both of them worked equally hard, there will definitely be
a difference. It could even be that the sales or profits of one are
75% less than that of the other.
In India, Pakistan and many other places you will find 24 stalls, all
in a line, selling the same thing - combs, handkerchiefs, knives,
buttons, etc. Who is sending sustenance to the different stalls ? –
Allah Ta’ala.
What then is the need to be envious and jealous?
Jealousy
There are so many who become jealous when a person opens his
business next door to theirs, stacking the same lines. They think
their business will be affected.
Jealousy, hatred and enmity build up, and in turn sometimes leads
to fights and arguments; sometimes even shootings, Sehr and
Jadu, etc.
When Shaytaan comes and whispers these fears, regarding one’s
sustenance, then tell him : “Allah Ta’ala has destined my
sustenance. My responsibility is to make the correct effort. Allah
Ta’ala has provided me hands, feet and intelligence. I must go to
the bazaar and marketplace, make an effort to earn an honest
living, and Allah Ta’ala will provide for me whatever He has
destined.”
Rasulullah Sallam has said : “Allah has revealed to me that no one
dies until he has received the sustenance destined for him even
though it may reach him late. As such guard yourself from
disobedience to Allah, and do not outstep the limits of moderation
in seeking your livelihood and in case of delay do not try to seek it
by unlawful means, for the sustenance that Allah provides can
only be got by obedience.”
Insurance
If Shaytaan cannot ensnare us in theft, interest, gambling and
fraud then he will deceitfully tender more advice : ‘You need to
take out some insurance policies as a safety measure, security and
protection.’
The insurance scheme has covered everything : car, house, life,
death, etc. We get so carried away by these schemes that we fall
for the trap. Worse is that we indulge in this Haraam, believing
that these policies are in our best interest.
After taking out so many policies, there’s still no peace and
satisfaction. In fact, the fear increases. How many people fear
being killed by their own family members because of some
insurance policy ? ...There are incidents of even Muslim children
taking the lives of their parents because of insurance.
The Third Attack
Hazrat Shaqiq Balkhi (Rahmatullah ‘alaih) says : “Shaytaan comes
from the left-hand side and whispers again into my heart, and this
time he whispers : ‘How long are you going deprive yourself of all
these sins that others are so enjoying ?’”
Shaytaan comes to many who restrain themselves, or many who
have changed their lives and whispers : “People are going to the
cinemas, theatres, clubs, concerts, etc and enjoying their lives.
Why are you staying away ?”
They are listening to all kinds of filthy music, enjoying their
youth, health and strength in sinful, haraam pleasures. This person
decides that he will not conform to the madness of everyone
indulging in various vices ...vices which have become accepted as
the norms of society and which are encouraged and promoted as if
virtuous.
No matter what the temptation, he restrains and refrains and
abstains from all these Haraam entertainments. Shaytaan whispers:
“Here you are like a Sufi saheb – lowering your gaze and closing
your ears and saying : “No, no I can’t be there.”, missing out on
all the excitement. You are leading a miserable, boring, pathetic
life. Get into action and enjoy life.”
At that time, Shaqiq Balkhi (Rahmatullah ‘alaih) says : “I reply to
Shaytaan :
“BUT AS FOR HIM WHO FEARED ( IN THIS WORLD ) TO STAND
BEFORE HIS LORD (IN THE HEREAFTER) AND RESTRAINED
HIMSELF FROM ( UNLAWFUL INDULGENCE IN ) LUST,
LO! JANNAT WILL BE HIS HOME.”
[SURAH AN-NAAZI’ AAT : 40/41]
This person restrains himself from the evil desires that come. He is
a human being. He also has desires. It’s not that he is made of iron
or steel. It’s not that he is made of wood or coal. This person also
has a heart.
The Hearts of the Ushaaq
In fact, the Aashiqs (lovers) of Allah Ta’ala have hearts filled with
Ishq and Muhabbat. They are thus, far more sensitive - to beauty
and anything that would appeal to their hearts. Despite this, they
still restrain themselves. They don’t displease their Beloved
Maula (master) for a moment. In return, Allah Ta’ala blesses them
with the sweetness of Imaan and an ocean of Noor in their hearts.
They keep restraining themselves and continuously wound their
hearts by sacrificing those evil desires for the pleasure of Allah
Ta’ala. The sword of Divine Love is perpetually struck at the
necks of their evil desires. In fact, this Love of Allah has made
sacrifice and martyrdom the pleasure of their lives.
The road of Love lurks with dangers.
The heart and soul turns to blood in this path.
Very costly is this commodity of Love.
The Love of Allah is obtained with
great sacrifice and many tears.
In the ocean of Love, there are waves of blood.
Until we do not turn our hearts red with the blood of our evil
desires, there is no way that we can gain the closeness of Allah
Ta’ala. There is no Wali who has become a Wali by fulfilling the
evil desires of his heart.
Sweetness on Sacrifice
Allah Ta’ala has not promised the halawat (sweetness) of Imaan
on anything else like He has promised on sacrifice. A person is
tempted to look at a pretty woman, or a woman is tempted to look
at a handsome man – there is a demand from the nafs but the
person sacrifices this desire.
It may be a film actor, a sports star, or that woman can be the one
who was crowned Miss World but the person says : “My Allah is
going to be displeased with me.” and lowers his gaze. Allah
Ta’ala seeing this wounded heart so appreciates such a sacrifice
that He reciprocates generously by causing that heart to be imbued
with sweetness. This is His promise.
It is mentioned in a Hadith-e-Qudsi : “Verily evil glancing is an
arrow from the poisonous arrows of Shaytaan. Whosoever fears
Me (Allah) and refrains from it will receive from Me such
Imaan, the sweetness of which he will taste (feel) in his heart.”
This halawat of Imaan is a reality, and the Ahl-e-Dil, those who
have sacrificed their hearts for Allah Ta’ala, are recipient to this. It
is a short and direct route to Allah Ta’ala, especially in these times
of fitnah.
In business or any other profession, if there is a need sometimes to
look, then make plenty of Taubah and Istighfaar. Where there is
no need at all, then to lower our gaze, be it at the schools,
universities, airports, shopping centers and other places, we too
will enjoy that sweetness of Imaan. Of course, there will be that
grief and pain which the heart will have to endure in rendering
sacrifice... but then this is the way of Love.
We have eclipsed a myriad suns and moons of Beauty.
On experiencing the pain and sorrow of giving up sin
Then only did we find Allah.
The person restrains himself because he fears standing before
Allah Ta’ala on the Day of Judgement and accounting for his
actions. If Allah Ta’ala punishes, then no one can save him. On
this self-restraint, Allah Ta’ala will grant this person Jannat, and
Jannat is the place for all pleasures.
Jannat
Allah Ta’ala has said that He has prepared for His righteous
servants, that which no eye has seen, no ear has heard and the
thought of such has not passed through the mind.
Those who restrict themselves here, in this worldly life, will enjoy
the unrestricted bounties and pleasures of Jannat.
Our folly is that we are swept away by the glitter and glamour of
the material things of the world. We see beautiful mansions,
different models of cars, exquisite jewelry, designer clothes, all
kinds of furniture and so many other luxuries to be found on the
market that as a result, we have even forgotten that there is
something like Jannat.
We consider the things of this world to be exotic and beautiful, yet
in describing Jannat, the Qur`aan Sharief and the Ahadith make
mention that Jannat is made of bricks of gold and silver, and its
gravels are made of pearls and rubies. Its clay is that of saffron;
the garments of Jannat will be of rare, fine silk; the homes will be
lofty mansions. The chattels will be of gold and silver and the
couches will be encrusted with gold and precious stones.... The
bounties of Jannat are innumerable and far beyond our
imagination.
This world and all that it contains is absolutely nothing in
comparison to Jannat and what it has to offer us. Unfortunately we
do not have true yaqeen (conviction) in the Aakhirah (Hereafter)
and in the promises of Allah Ta’ala. As a result of this weakness,
we make this world the be all and end all of our lives. Allah Ta’ala
states in the Qur`aan Sharief: “You prefer the worldly life (to the
Aakhirah) whereas the Hereafter is best and everlasting.”
In our brief stay here in this world, we should make use of all the
ne’mats (bounties) which Allah Ta’ala has created and blessed us
with, but we should not let these bounties make us forget that
there is Jannat and that is our goal.
How long are we going to live in this world ? Who has lived here
forever ? After acquiring everything of the best also, the person
has to leave and go. We need to understand that this world is the
journey and Jannat is the destination...
... And Jannat is a place where there is no pain, no difficulty, no
hardship, no sorrow, no grief, no jealousy, no envy, no malice, no
hatred, no pride, no anger, no fights and no quarrels – only
wonderful peace; a place where all wishes and desires are
fulfilled; a place to enjoy ourselves.
The Ultimate Bounty
After being granted the bounties of Jannat, the Jannati will then be
blessed with the ultimate bounty of Jannat - the vision of Allah
Ta’ala.
In a beautiful poem, a poet says that despite the indescribable
beauty of the bounties of Jannat, the greatest ne’mat of Jannat is
when the Jannatis will be blessed with the deedaar (vision) of
their Beloved Allah Ta’ala.
That veil
which was covering
Allah Ta’ala’s countenance
will be removed.
Now will be the time to smile
For those who took that grief
on their hearts,
and restrained themselves
from all evil .
In fact, even in this worldly life, when a person keeps restraining
himself, Allah Ta’ala keeps giving him that sweetness. The person
enjoys the fragrance of Jannat within his heart.
Many of the Ahlullah have mentioned that even their saliva
becomes sweet on taking the name of their Beloved Allah, and
their hearts experience such tranquility, peace and happiness that
sins become absolutely filthy to them.
Sins
To us, sins are something enjoyable and something which gives us
pleasure, but to the lovers of Allah Ta’ala, sins are filthy and dirty,
just as urine and stool is to us ... They do not want to go anywhere
near the gutters of sin.
It is far easier for them to stand on the musallah, to read the
Qur`aan Sharief, to make Zikr, to serve mankind and to pray and
ask of Allah Ta’ala, than to go to the cinemas, theatres, dancing
halls, casinos and various other vice dens.
In fact, the enjoyment, ecstasy and pleasure which they experience
in their khalwat (solitude) with Allah Ta’ala and in their obedience
to Allah Ta’ala is such that they would not exchange it for
anything of the world, let alone the fleeting, temporary pleasures
of sin. Unfortunately, we have been deceived into thinking that
there is pleasure in sins and as such we have been deprived of the
sweetness of Obedience to Allah Ta’ala.
The Final Attack
Shaytaan comes yet again and once more he whispers : “Why are
you so worried ? All your Ibaadat has been accepted. You’ve
made more than enough now. How long are you going to carry
on?” ...The musallahs too are torn, so therefore, it’s enough.
Hazrat Shaqiq Balkhi (Rahmatullah ‘alaih) said at that time : “I tell
Shaytaan :
“ ... AND THE (BLESSED) END IS ONLY FOR THE M UTTAQEEN.”
[SURAH A’RAAF : 128]
Since we do not know the end result, how then can we give up ?
The end result will be at the time of death, and Shaytaan whispers
even at this time. Due to this final assault from Shaytaan some
have even lost their Imaan at the time of death.
The End Result
Sheikh Abdul Qader Jailani (Rahmatullah ‘alaih) related that once a
person told him : “O Sheikh Abdul Qader Jailani (Rahmatullah
‘alaih). You have done so much of Ibaadat and you are a Wali-e-
Kaamil and you are so close to Allah Ta’ala. You should have no
fear of any kind. We are the ones who are sinful and we should
have a lot of fear.”
Hazrat Sheikh Abdul Qader Jailani (Rahmatullah ‘alaih) replied :
“Abdul Qader is like that person who is on board a ship at sea,
which is caught in the midst of a storm. Strong wind and torrents
of water are lashing it. The passengers do not know as to whether
there are any chances of survival. There is a tremendous fear of
drowning. It is only when they reach the safety of the shore will
they realize that they have been saved. Abdul Qader is, at present,
like that passenger who is on board that ship which is being
lashed by storm.” ... This is a Wali of Allah Ta’ala. ...Who then
are we?
Prescriptions
To return to the subject matter of the whisperings of Shaytaan :
When these thoughts plague anyone, then read : Ta’awwuz,
“Aamantu billahi wa rusulih”, “La haula wa la quwata illa
billah”, or Nabi e has also said that the person should make dua
: “O Allah, make these wasaawis (whisperings) which are coming
into my heart a means of Your khauf (fear) and Your zikr
(remembrance).”
Shaytaan will then say : “I was trying to mislead him and he is
saying : ‘O Allah make these wasaawis into Your khashiyyat (fear)
and zikr.’” ... How does one make such thoughts into the Zikr of
Allah Ta’ala ?
Say : “O Allah, what a heart and mind You have created that a
person can picture the mountains, the heavens and the earths, the
wonderful forests, the magnificent oceans and everything.... The
whole world can come into the heart of a person ... and now
Shaytaan is also whispering into this kind of heart.” ...This
person is turning towards Allah Ta’ala. He is making these
‘wasaawis’ into “...His fear and His zikr.” On doing so, Shaytaan
will disappear.
It is mentioned in the Tafseer of Surah Naas that Shaytaan
withdraws or flees when a person remembers Allah Ta’ala.
Rasulullah e has said : “Verily Shaytaan sits resolutely on the
heart of man. When he engages in Zikr, Shaytaan flees. When he
(man) is ‘ghaafil’ (negligent), Shaytaan whispers (into his heart).”
These are simple and successful ways of combating evil thoughts.
Bad Dreams
I will conclude with a brief explanation of bad dreams. People get
very worried about such dreams, and especially in these days
when many people are dreaming of hold-ups, hijackings, murders
and killings.
Such dreams are either ‘al-hulm’ or bad dreams, which result
because of Shaytaan’s interference, or the dreams could be
‘hadith-un-nafs’ - a replay of the thoughts and events of the day.
We listen to and read about these happenings, therefore we dream
of the same.
Although, sometimes, it could very well mean that nafs and
Shaytaan are hijacking us. In fact, whenever we dream of
hijacking then we should believe that it’s nafs and Shaytaan who
are hijacking us and taking us off track, in a very wrong direction.
Nevertheless, our dreams are generally the talk, thoughts and
activities of the day. If a barber dreams that he is giving a haircut
– what does that dream mean ? ... Nothing.
Ibn Sereen, who was famous for his interpretations of dreams, has
written that sometimes when a person sleeps on a full stomach or
is constipated then this also results in bad dreams.
The person who is interpreting the dream discerns that this
person’s dream is for what reason. Sometimes I tell the person that
the ‘tabeer’ (interpretation) of his dream is that he must take
laxative.
What to do
If a person has a bad or frightening dream, then Nabi e has said
that the person must get up and make “thu, thu, thu” to his left.
“Thu, thu, thu” does not mean that he must start spitting ... just
make a spitting sound, then read Ta’awwuz, turn his side and
sleep.
Insha-Allah, if this is done then that dream will not cause any
harm, and after all, whatever is going to happen, will happen.
Sometimes, in a dream, a person is only given some sort of
indication as to what may occur. This too, not always. In fact, a
person who has a bad dream should not make a mention of it to
just anyone.
Of course, sometimes a dream is a glad tiding and sometimes a
warning to the person to give up sins or prepare for the ‘azaab’
(punishment) of Allah Ta’ala.
Dua
We must make dua to Allah Ta’ala that He protect us from the
mischief of nafs and Shaytaan, and that He grants to us such
Imaan (faith) and Tawakkul (trust) in Him that we do not fall prey
to the temptations of Shaytaan. May that Imaan be such that we
restrain ourselves, no matter how difficult it is on our nafs, from
everything Haraam and try and make a concerted and sincere
effort, to gain within our hearts, the sweetness of Imaan.
When we will develop that Imaan and gain that sweetness within
our hearts then the world and all that it contains will be considered
as negligible in value as the wing of a misquito, as has been
mentioned by Nabi e : “If the world had the value of even the
wing of a misquito by Allah, He would not have given any Kaafir
even a drink of water.”
We are not going to reject the world. We are not going to say:
“I’m not going to use a car anymore.”, “I’m not going to enjoy
the comfort of my home.”, “I’m not going to sleep on a good bed
now.”, “I’m not going to wear good clothes.” ...
Rasulullah e said : “Verily, the world has been created for you
and you have been created for the Aakhirah.”... We will
therefore use everything; even more so, but we will not give our
hearts to the perishable things of a perishable world. Our hearts
will be reserved for Allah Ta’ala, the Giver of these Bounties.
Hazrat Mufti Muhammad Shafee (Rahmatullah ‘alaih) had said : “It
is permissible to keep the Dunya (material world) in one’s hand,
and even in one’s pocket, but not in one’s heart. The heart is
Allah’s house.”

May Allah Ta’ala bless us all with the ‘taufeeq’ of
practising on His Laws and the beautiful teachings of
Rasulullah Sallam.
May Allah Ta’ala also protect us all from the mischief of
nafs and of Shaytaan.