Al-ghurabah
14-02-06, 11:46 AM
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
The Journey to Establish Allah's Deen
Before any person starts a journey he must always prepare himself. The preparation for his journey varies and is subject to where he is going (destination), how he is going to get there (method) and the directions for the journey. For example, there will be different preparations to go from London to Birmingham than to travel from London to Afghanistan.
When we are speaking about establishing the Sharee’ah (the divine Islamic law and order) we are speaking about a fard (obligation) which has been legislated by Almighty Allah (SWT), and we must remember that there is no such thing as leaving an obligation (e.g. establishing the Khilaafah) in order to fulfil another obligation (e.g. ‘to fix yourself’).
It is only the Sharee’ah which can determine and prioritise our obligations, not our ration, logic or desires. We must always remember our purpose in life and our ultimate aim – that is to please Almighty Allah (SWT), by fulfilling all our duties.
The Messenger of Allah (SAW) ordered us to prepare ourselves and live our entire life just like a traveller. In order to understand this, one must actually imagine how difficult it is to embark on a long journey; there will be a lack of food, toilet facilities, lack of sleep etc. He (SAW) commanded us to always think and behave like any traveller would:
عبد الله بن عمر رضي الله عنهما قال: أخذ رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم بمنكبي فقال: (كن في الدنيا كأنك غريب أو عابر سبيل). وكان ابن عمر يقول: إذا أمسيت فلا تنتظر الصباح، وإذا أصبحت فلا تنتظر المساء، وخذ من صحتك لمرضك، ومن حياتك لموتك
Abdullaah ibn ‘Umar (RA) said: the Messenger of Allah (SAW) grasped me and said: ‘Be in this world as if you were a stranger or a traveller.’ And ‘Umar (RA) used to say: ‘If you survive till the evening, do not expect to be alive in the morning, and if you survive till the morning, do not expect to be alive in the evening, and take from your health before your sickness, and from your life before your death.’ (Saheeh al-Bukhaari, Book of Softening the Hearts, Chapter 3, Hadeeth no. 6416)
And he (SAW) also said:
وعن عبد اللَّه بن مسعود رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنهُ قال نام رَسُول اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيهِ وَسَلَّم على حصير فقام وقد أثر في جنبه. قلنا: يا رَسُول اللَّهِ لو اتخذنا لك وطاء. فقال: ما لي وللدنيا! ما أنا في الدنيا إلا كراكب استظل تحت شجرة ثم راح وتركها
Narrated by ‘Abdullaah bin Mas’ood: Allah’s Messenger (SAW) slept on a reed mat and got up with the marks left by it on his body. Ibn Mas’ood said: ‘Oh Messenger of Allah! I desire that you would order us to spread out soft bedding for you.’ He (SAW) said: ‘What is the dunyaa for me? As regards to the world, I am just like a rider who had sat under a tree just for its shade, then went away and left it.’ (Riyaad us-Saaliheen, Chapter 55, Hadeeth no. 486)
However, this does not mean that one will actually become a traveller and have the permit to shorten and combine all the five daily prayers. Rather, it is a great indication as to how we should live our lives and not be attached to the dunyaa, approaching our duties and responsibilities like a traveller, not being concerned with buying expensive cars and houses etc. We must always remember that we are in a tunnel, and at the end of this tunnel is light – but it could be the light of Hellfire or the light of Paradise. The only way we can guarantee that we are heading the correct way is by following the Messenger of Allah (SAW) and his Companions (may Allah be pleased with them), as Allah (SWT) says:
وَمَنْ يُشَاقِقِ الرَّسُولَ مِنْ بَعْدِ مَا تَبَيَّنَ لَهُ الْهُدَى وَيَتَّبِعْ غَيْرَ سَبِيلِ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ نُوَلِّهِ مَا تَوَلَّى وَنُصْلِهِ جَهَنَّمَ وَسَاءَتْ مَصِيرًا
“And whoever contradicts and opposes the Messenger (Muhammad SAW) after the right path has been shown clearly to him, and follows other than the believers' way (method, ‘Aqeedah etc.). We shall keep him in the path he has chosen, and burn him in Hell - what an evil destination.” (EMQ an-Nisaa', 4:115)
الهدف Al-Hadaf – The Objective
Our aims and objectives are not and cannot be laid down by ourselves; rather, it is only Allah (SWT) who defines our aims, purpose and objectives. Allah (SWT) says:
وَمَا خَلَقْتُ الْجِنَّ وَالإنْسَ إِلا لِيَعْبُدُونِ
مَا أُرِيدُ مِنْهُمْ مِنْ رِزْقٍ وَمَا أُرِيدُ أَنْ يُطْعِمُونِ
“And I (Allah) created not the Jinns and humans except they should worship Me (Alone).
I seek not any provision from them (i.e. provision for themselves or for My creatures) nor do I ask that they should feed Me (i.e. feed themselves or My creatures).” (EMQ adh-Dhaariyaat, 51:56-57)
Therefore, our ahdaaf (objectives) are to fulfil all our waajibaat (obligations) in accordance with the Sharee’ah. Attainment of these objectives can only be achieved by doing good deeds which are based upon the teachings of the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) and his Companions (RA).
Bearing all of this in mind, we can now speak about one of the objectives that Allah (SWT) has legislated for us: establishing the Deen of Allah, or the Islamic state. Since this is an objective which Allah has laid down, it can only be accomplished in accordance with how the Messenger of Allah (SAW) and his Companions did so. Any form of ration, logic or benefit cannot be the criterion or source behind the method to establish Allah’s Deen, firstly because they are forms of Taaghout (that which is worshipped besides Allah), and secondly because of the reasons discussed above, i.e. Allah is the One who defines our obligations and their methods.
الطريق At-Tareeq – The Path
As discussed earlier, the method or path must be based upon the method of Ahl us-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah, and this method is the way in which we can fulfil our objectives. Every obligation in Islam has certain circumstances and guidelines which determine when the obligation should be fulfilled and the way to do it. For example, salaah is an obligation but how do we fulfil this duty? Can we pray in a way which suits us or are we obliged to pray in accordance with how the Messenger of Allah (SAW) used to pray? Definitely it is the second option, as any action which is not based upon his (SAW) teachings is void and rejected (a sin).
Furthermore, keeping with the example of salaah, there are certain conditions which must be fulfilled in order for our salaah to be valid, such as wudoo'. The obligation is rendered void if any single condition is not fulfilled. Therefore, if we do not fulfil the conditions of establishing the Khilaafah, and neither engage in this duty in accordance with the Sunnah of the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) we will be putting all of our good deeds on hold or even in the worse case scenario - nullifying them.
We must always remember that the method to fulfil these waajibaat is not easy as the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) has informed us that the path to Jannah is full of dislikes and difficulties. It is important to remember to live in this world like a traveller and somehow detach ourselves from it.
Whenever one sets out on a journey he must always first check that his vehicle is in good working order and that there is sufficient amount of engine oil and coolant. Any failure to take the necessary precautions, such as to be sure of the route (the method), who is travelling with you (your companions), if your brakes and seat-belts are in working order etc., could lead to a sever accident or calamity.
Our only and best example for us to follow is the Messenger of Allah (SAW), as Allah (SWT) says:
لَقَدْ كَانَ لَكُمْ فِي رَسُولِ اللَّهِ أُسْوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ لِمَنْ كَانَ يَرْجُو اللَّهَ وَالْيَوْمَ الآخِرَ وَذَكَرَ اللَّهَ كَثِيرًا
“Indeed in the Messenger of Allah (saw) you have an excellent example to follow for him who hopes in (the Meeting with) Allah and the Last Day and remembers Allah much.” (EMQ al-Ahzaab, 33:21)
Note. This short work relates to working to establish Allah's Deen in the time of amin (security and peace) – a time when jihaad is not fard uz-zamaan (the obligation of the time). Nowadays, jihaad is the priority for all Muslims and Muslim groups to call for and fulfil; therefore, supporting it takes more priority than working for the Khilaafah. Jihaad and working for the Khilaafah are two separate duties.
طلب الحق Talab ul-Haq – Seeking the Truth
The first condition of engaging in this long and difficult path to establish Allah’s Deen is to seek the haq regardless of any consequences. When the Messenger of Allah (SAW) sent his Companions to the Abyssinia they said to the King: ‘Allah sent us a Messenger (SAW) to speak the truth wherever we are, and we fear no consequences...’ Even if you find the road to Jannah so difficult, you still must seek the truth and abide by the Sharee’ah, as Allah (SWT) says:
فَلا وَرَبِّكَ لا يُؤْمِنُونَ حَتَّى يُحَكِّمُوكَ فِيمَا شَجَرَ بَيْنَهُمْ ثُمَّ لا يَجِدُوا فِي أَنْفُسِهِمْ حَرَجًا مِمَّا قَضَيْتَ وَيُسَلِّمُوا تَسْلِيمًا
“By your lord they are not believers until they refer to you (the Sharee’ah) in all disputes.” (EMQ an-Nisaa', 4:65)
The second condition for working for the Deen of Islam is that you MUST be willing to sacrifice everything for the sake of Allah (SWT), just like the Sahaabah did when they made the hijrah to Yathrib (al-Madeenah), living behind their jobs, education, wives, children, families, wealth and homes. We must be willing to sacrifice and face the same consequences as Bilaal (RA) and ‘Ammaar (RA) who were severely tortured for the sake of Allah and their Deen. If we really want the pleasure of Allah and Paradise, we must believe, struggle and sacrifice the way the Messenger (SAW) and his Companions (RA) did.
المركبة Al-Markabah – The Transportation
If we want to travel from Daar ul-Kufr to Daar ul-Islam we must travel together, as did the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) and his Companions. Furthermore, we need transportation, i.e. a vehicle, instructions (the Qur’aan and Sunnah) and a map (the manhaj – following the Saved Sect). In our case the vehicle is not a car or van, but rather a Jamaa’ah (within Ahl us-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah). Any jamaa’ah that is not within the fold of ASWJ (Ahl us-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah) is not allowed to exist and is one of the greatest obstacles in the way of unity between Muslims.
From Makkah to al-Madeenah
For us to establish this great duty, we must follow the method which the Prophet (SAW) and his Companions engaged in from Makkah (revelation) to al-Madeenah (implementation). The method to establish Daar ul-Islam is not how many people think, such as to summarise the method into one hukm: Jihaad (which is useless without to understand Tawheed).
We must study the life of the Prophet (SAW) and his journey from Makkah to al-Madeenah. We must study what path he took, which vehicle he travelled in, who accompanied him, what map he was following and what luggage he took with him. Whenever we study the Seerah (life or biography) of the Messenger Muhammad (SAW), there are three main significant things for us to note and take lesson from which form the main part of the methodology to establish the Islamic state:
Da’wah to Islam
a) Calling people to Tawheed
The Messenger Muhammad (SAW) conveyed the message of Islam from the very moment he received revelation from Allah via Jibreel. He invited his wife Khadeejah (RA) to Islam, and then his best friend Abu Bakr (RA) and his cousin ‘Ali (RA). It is also narrated that Abu Bakr (RA) invited six other people to Islam and they accepted. There is no doubt whatsoever among any Muslim that this was the first part of the method to establish Allah’s Deen and a great obligation in Islam.
b) Teaching and culturing Islam
Another clear fact based upon the teachings of classical scholars and the Seerah, is that the Prophet (SAW) used to regularly culture and teach his Companions about Islam in Daar ul-Arqam. This is where he worked on their ‘Aqeedah, Tawheed, Walaa' (love for Muslims) and Baraa (hatred for the Kuffaar), Tawakkul (trust in Allah) and Taqwaa (fear from Allah) etc. He would teach them the cost of Paradise and the sacrifice needed to fulfil their ultimate aim in life – to please Allah (SWT)
It was in this meeting place (office) where the Nabi (SAW) formed his jamaa’ah that was to work collectively and destroy any form of disunity. The Quraish were fully aware of their da’wah and regular meetings, but were totally surprised from the strength, will power and desire to sacrifice for the sake of Allah. In the eyes of the Kuffaar, they saw a collective body of Muslims who were so united under a man who was poor and illiterate, and also had no wealth or riches to offer them.
Commanding Good and Forbidding Evil / Exposing Taaghout
Everyone witnessed the amount of hatred the Messenger (SAW) had for the kufr and shirk and how he worked day and night to expose the munkar (evil) of society, their false gods and way of life. This was because Allah (SWT) ordered His Messenger (SAW) and the Sahaabah to work collectively and proclaim the message of Islam publicly, exposing the munkar and ills of society:
فَاصْدَعْ بِمَا تُؤْمَرُ وَأَعْرِضْ عَنِ الْمُشْرِكِينَ
‘Proclaim openly that which you are commanded, and turn away from the Mushrikoon.” (EMQ al-Hijr, 15:94)
Seeking Nusrah (Authority)
This was the final stage of working for the Khilaafah. After inviting society to Islam (generating public profile), exposing all forms of kufr and shirk (commanding good and forbidding evil), the Messenger (SAW) then sought authority and power to enforce the Sharee’ah upon the whole of mankind, visiting tribe to tribe in search for those who were willing to die for the sake of Allah (SWT).
No Diversions
We must remain firm and stick to the track of the Messenger (SAW) and never divert from our objectives. At no point should we ever go beyond the boundaries - always being focused on the objective and never being busy with less important issues such as building a clinic, surgery or school.
Establishing a school or clinic may be helpful and aid the Muslim community in the short term, but it is actually a great divert from the path of establishing Tawheed. In fact, we have learnt a great lesson from those secular Muslims who have their so-called Islamic schools and centres, yet they have done nothing for the global Ummah and remain busy with local issues rather than international.
Besides, a school can only educate a few hundred people in one borough, but who is going to educate the other 1.5 billion Muslims on earth? The interest of the global Ummah takes priority over the small numbers; in this case the interest we are referring to is removing the occupation in Muslim lands and the kufr law on earth. Once we become busy with schools and colleges it will divert all of our attention towards the recommended whilst leaving the greater obligations such as establishing the Sharee’ah. How would it look is we were to pray Taraweeh (the recommended e.g. establishing a school) but leave Salaat ul-‘Ishaa (the obligatory, e.g. establishing the Khilaafah)?
The Vehicle
The vehicle chosen by Rasoolullah (SAW) was not to share power with the kufr regimes, participate in a democratic government, or join the Kaafir police force and military. Neither was it to seek help from the Kuffaar or lock himself inside the mosque and make dhikr by himself as many deviant Muslims are doing today.
The vehicle the Messenger of Allah (SAW) had was the people who were with him, i.e. the Sahaabah, and the map he had was not the UN resolutions or British law, rather it was the Qur’aan and Sunnah. Allah’s Messenger (SAW) said in the famous hadeeth:
تركت فيكم شيئين لن تضلوا بعدهما: كتاب الله وسنتي
‘I have left you on two things (which if hold on to) you will never be misguided, the Book of Allah and my Sunnah.’ (Al-Jaami’ as-Sagheer #3282)
The Necessary Luggage for the Traveller
The most important aspect or concern for any traveller is his luggage. Therefore, we must know what luggage is necessary for us to take with us, and which luggage Allah’s Messenger (SAW) and his Companions had with them whilst travelling from Daar ul-Kufr to Daar ul-Islam. The first and most important luggage any sincere Muslim should have with them is:
1. الإيمان بالله Al-Eemaanu Billaah – Believing in Allah
Allah (SWT) says in the Qur’aan:
إِنَّ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ إِنَّا لا نُضِيعُ أَجْرَ مَنْ أَحْسَنَ عَمَلا
“Verily those who believe and do righteous deeds…” (EMQ al-Kahf, 18:30)
And Abu Dhar (RA) once asked the Prophet (SAW):
عن أبي ذر، قال: قلت: يا رسول الله! أي الأعمال أفضل؟ قال: الإيمان بالله، والجهاد في سبيله...
‘Oh Messenger of Allah (SAW)! What is the best action? He (SAW) said: Believing in Allah and fighting Jihaad in the way of Allah’ (Saheeh Muslim, Book of Eemaan, Chapter 36, Hadeeth #84)
There are many other numerous verses and ahaadeeth where Allah mentions and informs us that the only way to success is to have the correct Eemaan. This means that we must have the Eemaan of the Sahaabah, hence we must believe that Eemaan has three main pillars: conviction in the heart, testifying by the tongue and practicing willingly.
2. العمل الصالح Al-‘Amal us-Saalih – Good Deeds and Fulfilling the Commands of Allah (SWT)
Allah (SWT) says in the Qur’aan:
إِنَّ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ كَانَتْ لَهُمْ جَنَّاتُ الْفِرْدَوْسِ نُزُلا
“Verily! Those who believe and do righteous deeds shall have the Gardens of Al-Firdaws (the Paradise) for their entertainment.” (EMQ al-Kahf, 18:107)
إِنَّ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ سَيَجْعَلُ لَهُمُ الرَّحْمَنُ وُدًّا
“Verily, those who believe and work deeds of righteousness, the Most Beneficent (Allah) will bestow love for them (in the hearts of the believers).” (EMQ Maryam, 19:96)
3. الإخلاص Al-Iklaas – Sincerity
Allah (SWT) says:
وَمَا أُمِرُوا إِلا لِيَعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ مُخْلِصِينَ لَهُ الدِّينَ حُنَفَاءَ وَيُقِيمُوا الصَّلاةَ وَيُؤْتُوا الزَّكَاةَ وَذَلِكَ دِينُ الْقَيِّمَةِ
“And they were commanded not, but that they should worship Allah, and worship none but Him Alone (abstaining from ascribing partners to Him), and perform As-Salaah and give Zakaah: and that is the right religion.” (EMQ al-Bayyinah, 98:5)
إِنَّا أَنْزَلْنَا إِلَيْكَ الْكِتَابَ بِالْحَقِّ فَاعْبُدِ اللَّهَ مُخْلِصًا لَهُ الدِّينَ
“Verily, We have sent down the Book to you in truth: So worship Allah (Alone) by doing religious deeds sincerely for Allah's sake only, (and not to show-off, and not to set up rivals with Him in worship).” (EMQ az-Zumar, 39:2)
Doing good deeds is no way enough for one to achieve the pleasure of Allah (SWT) and enter Jannah unless they are done sincerely for his sake. This means that one should never do good deeds for the sake of being praised or to show off. In fact, showing off (ar-Riyaa') is a form of shirk and could lead to sever punishment in the Hereafter.
4. التأسي والمتابعة At-Ta'assie wal-Mutaaba’ah – Emulating and Following the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) and his Companions
The Messenger Muhammad (SAW) said:
كلُّ أمتي يدخلون الجنة إلا من أبى، قالوا: يا رسول الله، ومن يأبى؟ قال: من أطاعني دخل الجنة، ومن عصاني فقد أبى
‘Everyone of my Ummah will enter Paradise except the one who reject. He (SAW) was asked: ‘Who are those who reject oh Rasoolullah?’ He (SAW) said: Whosoever obeys me will enter Paradise, and whosoever disobeys me is the one who rejects.’ (Saheeh al-Bukhaari, Book 96: Holding Fast to the Qur’aan and Sunnah, Chapter 2, Hadeeth #7280)
And Allah (SWT) says:
وَمَا آتَاكُمُ الرَّسُولُ فَخُذُوهُ وَمَا نَهَاكُمْ عَنْهُ فَانْتَهُوا وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ إِنَّ اللَّهَ شَدِيدُ الْعِقَابِ
“And whatsoever the Messenger (SAW) gives you take it, and whatsoever he forbids you, abstain (from it), and fear Allah. Verily, Allah is severe in punishment.” (EMQ al-Hashr, 59:7)
لا تَجْعَلُوا دُعَاءَ الرَّسُولِ بَيْنَكُمْ كَدُعَاءِ بَعْضِكُمْ بَعْضًا قَدْ يَعْلَمُ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ يَتَسَلَّلُونَ مِنْكُمْ لِوَاذًا فَلْيَحْذَرِ الَّذِينَ يُخَالِفُونَ عَنْ أَمْرِهِ أَنْ تُصِيبَهُمْ فِتْنَةٌ أَوْ يُصِيبَهُمْ عَذَابٌ أَلِيمٌ
“…and let those who oppose the Messenger's (SAW) commandment (i.e. his Sunnah, orders, acts of worship, statements, etc.) beware, lest some Fitnah (disbelief, trials, afflictions, earthquakes, killing, overpowered by a tyrant, etc.) befall them or a painful torment be inflicted on them.” (EMQ an-Noor, 24:63)
5. التقوى At-Taqwaa – Fearing from Allah (SWT)
Allah (SWT) says:
فَإِنَّ خَيْرَ الزَّادِ التَّقْوَى وَاتَّقُونِ يَا أُولِي الألْبَابِ
“…the best preparation is Taqwaa.” (EMQ al-Baqarah, 2:197)
When the Prophet (SAW) used to teach the Muslims about Islam, he taught them about these preparations and the necessary luggage which they needed in order to be properly prepared and equipped for the da’wah. If was for this reason that the vehicle of the da’wah continued, and will always continue even if some people fall off on the way. The greatest traveller Muhammad (SAW) passed away, yet this never stopped the Sahaabah and they continued their journey due to their excellent preparation.
The Journey to Establish Allah's Deen
Before any person starts a journey he must always prepare himself. The preparation for his journey varies and is subject to where he is going (destination), how he is going to get there (method) and the directions for the journey. For example, there will be different preparations to go from London to Birmingham than to travel from London to Afghanistan.
When we are speaking about establishing the Sharee’ah (the divine Islamic law and order) we are speaking about a fard (obligation) which has been legislated by Almighty Allah (SWT), and we must remember that there is no such thing as leaving an obligation (e.g. establishing the Khilaafah) in order to fulfil another obligation (e.g. ‘to fix yourself’).
It is only the Sharee’ah which can determine and prioritise our obligations, not our ration, logic or desires. We must always remember our purpose in life and our ultimate aim – that is to please Almighty Allah (SWT), by fulfilling all our duties.
The Messenger of Allah (SAW) ordered us to prepare ourselves and live our entire life just like a traveller. In order to understand this, one must actually imagine how difficult it is to embark on a long journey; there will be a lack of food, toilet facilities, lack of sleep etc. He (SAW) commanded us to always think and behave like any traveller would:
عبد الله بن عمر رضي الله عنهما قال: أخذ رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم بمنكبي فقال: (كن في الدنيا كأنك غريب أو عابر سبيل). وكان ابن عمر يقول: إذا أمسيت فلا تنتظر الصباح، وإذا أصبحت فلا تنتظر المساء، وخذ من صحتك لمرضك، ومن حياتك لموتك
Abdullaah ibn ‘Umar (RA) said: the Messenger of Allah (SAW) grasped me and said: ‘Be in this world as if you were a stranger or a traveller.’ And ‘Umar (RA) used to say: ‘If you survive till the evening, do not expect to be alive in the morning, and if you survive till the morning, do not expect to be alive in the evening, and take from your health before your sickness, and from your life before your death.’ (Saheeh al-Bukhaari, Book of Softening the Hearts, Chapter 3, Hadeeth no. 6416)
And he (SAW) also said:
وعن عبد اللَّه بن مسعود رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنهُ قال نام رَسُول اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيهِ وَسَلَّم على حصير فقام وقد أثر في جنبه. قلنا: يا رَسُول اللَّهِ لو اتخذنا لك وطاء. فقال: ما لي وللدنيا! ما أنا في الدنيا إلا كراكب استظل تحت شجرة ثم راح وتركها
Narrated by ‘Abdullaah bin Mas’ood: Allah’s Messenger (SAW) slept on a reed mat and got up with the marks left by it on his body. Ibn Mas’ood said: ‘Oh Messenger of Allah! I desire that you would order us to spread out soft bedding for you.’ He (SAW) said: ‘What is the dunyaa for me? As regards to the world, I am just like a rider who had sat under a tree just for its shade, then went away and left it.’ (Riyaad us-Saaliheen, Chapter 55, Hadeeth no. 486)
However, this does not mean that one will actually become a traveller and have the permit to shorten and combine all the five daily prayers. Rather, it is a great indication as to how we should live our lives and not be attached to the dunyaa, approaching our duties and responsibilities like a traveller, not being concerned with buying expensive cars and houses etc. We must always remember that we are in a tunnel, and at the end of this tunnel is light – but it could be the light of Hellfire or the light of Paradise. The only way we can guarantee that we are heading the correct way is by following the Messenger of Allah (SAW) and his Companions (may Allah be pleased with them), as Allah (SWT) says:
وَمَنْ يُشَاقِقِ الرَّسُولَ مِنْ بَعْدِ مَا تَبَيَّنَ لَهُ الْهُدَى وَيَتَّبِعْ غَيْرَ سَبِيلِ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ نُوَلِّهِ مَا تَوَلَّى وَنُصْلِهِ جَهَنَّمَ وَسَاءَتْ مَصِيرًا
“And whoever contradicts and opposes the Messenger (Muhammad SAW) after the right path has been shown clearly to him, and follows other than the believers' way (method, ‘Aqeedah etc.). We shall keep him in the path he has chosen, and burn him in Hell - what an evil destination.” (EMQ an-Nisaa', 4:115)
الهدف Al-Hadaf – The Objective
Our aims and objectives are not and cannot be laid down by ourselves; rather, it is only Allah (SWT) who defines our aims, purpose and objectives. Allah (SWT) says:
وَمَا خَلَقْتُ الْجِنَّ وَالإنْسَ إِلا لِيَعْبُدُونِ
مَا أُرِيدُ مِنْهُمْ مِنْ رِزْقٍ وَمَا أُرِيدُ أَنْ يُطْعِمُونِ
“And I (Allah) created not the Jinns and humans except they should worship Me (Alone).
I seek not any provision from them (i.e. provision for themselves or for My creatures) nor do I ask that they should feed Me (i.e. feed themselves or My creatures).” (EMQ adh-Dhaariyaat, 51:56-57)
Therefore, our ahdaaf (objectives) are to fulfil all our waajibaat (obligations) in accordance with the Sharee’ah. Attainment of these objectives can only be achieved by doing good deeds which are based upon the teachings of the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) and his Companions (RA).
Bearing all of this in mind, we can now speak about one of the objectives that Allah (SWT) has legislated for us: establishing the Deen of Allah, or the Islamic state. Since this is an objective which Allah has laid down, it can only be accomplished in accordance with how the Messenger of Allah (SAW) and his Companions did so. Any form of ration, logic or benefit cannot be the criterion or source behind the method to establish Allah’s Deen, firstly because they are forms of Taaghout (that which is worshipped besides Allah), and secondly because of the reasons discussed above, i.e. Allah is the One who defines our obligations and their methods.
الطريق At-Tareeq – The Path
As discussed earlier, the method or path must be based upon the method of Ahl us-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah, and this method is the way in which we can fulfil our objectives. Every obligation in Islam has certain circumstances and guidelines which determine when the obligation should be fulfilled and the way to do it. For example, salaah is an obligation but how do we fulfil this duty? Can we pray in a way which suits us or are we obliged to pray in accordance with how the Messenger of Allah (SAW) used to pray? Definitely it is the second option, as any action which is not based upon his (SAW) teachings is void and rejected (a sin).
Furthermore, keeping with the example of salaah, there are certain conditions which must be fulfilled in order for our salaah to be valid, such as wudoo'. The obligation is rendered void if any single condition is not fulfilled. Therefore, if we do not fulfil the conditions of establishing the Khilaafah, and neither engage in this duty in accordance with the Sunnah of the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) we will be putting all of our good deeds on hold or even in the worse case scenario - nullifying them.
We must always remember that the method to fulfil these waajibaat is not easy as the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) has informed us that the path to Jannah is full of dislikes and difficulties. It is important to remember to live in this world like a traveller and somehow detach ourselves from it.
Whenever one sets out on a journey he must always first check that his vehicle is in good working order and that there is sufficient amount of engine oil and coolant. Any failure to take the necessary precautions, such as to be sure of the route (the method), who is travelling with you (your companions), if your brakes and seat-belts are in working order etc., could lead to a sever accident or calamity.
Our only and best example for us to follow is the Messenger of Allah (SAW), as Allah (SWT) says:
لَقَدْ كَانَ لَكُمْ فِي رَسُولِ اللَّهِ أُسْوَةٌ حَسَنَةٌ لِمَنْ كَانَ يَرْجُو اللَّهَ وَالْيَوْمَ الآخِرَ وَذَكَرَ اللَّهَ كَثِيرًا
“Indeed in the Messenger of Allah (saw) you have an excellent example to follow for him who hopes in (the Meeting with) Allah and the Last Day and remembers Allah much.” (EMQ al-Ahzaab, 33:21)
Note. This short work relates to working to establish Allah's Deen in the time of amin (security and peace) – a time when jihaad is not fard uz-zamaan (the obligation of the time). Nowadays, jihaad is the priority for all Muslims and Muslim groups to call for and fulfil; therefore, supporting it takes more priority than working for the Khilaafah. Jihaad and working for the Khilaafah are two separate duties.
طلب الحق Talab ul-Haq – Seeking the Truth
The first condition of engaging in this long and difficult path to establish Allah’s Deen is to seek the haq regardless of any consequences. When the Messenger of Allah (SAW) sent his Companions to the Abyssinia they said to the King: ‘Allah sent us a Messenger (SAW) to speak the truth wherever we are, and we fear no consequences...’ Even if you find the road to Jannah so difficult, you still must seek the truth and abide by the Sharee’ah, as Allah (SWT) says:
فَلا وَرَبِّكَ لا يُؤْمِنُونَ حَتَّى يُحَكِّمُوكَ فِيمَا شَجَرَ بَيْنَهُمْ ثُمَّ لا يَجِدُوا فِي أَنْفُسِهِمْ حَرَجًا مِمَّا قَضَيْتَ وَيُسَلِّمُوا تَسْلِيمًا
“By your lord they are not believers until they refer to you (the Sharee’ah) in all disputes.” (EMQ an-Nisaa', 4:65)
The second condition for working for the Deen of Islam is that you MUST be willing to sacrifice everything for the sake of Allah (SWT), just like the Sahaabah did when they made the hijrah to Yathrib (al-Madeenah), living behind their jobs, education, wives, children, families, wealth and homes. We must be willing to sacrifice and face the same consequences as Bilaal (RA) and ‘Ammaar (RA) who were severely tortured for the sake of Allah and their Deen. If we really want the pleasure of Allah and Paradise, we must believe, struggle and sacrifice the way the Messenger (SAW) and his Companions (RA) did.
المركبة Al-Markabah – The Transportation
If we want to travel from Daar ul-Kufr to Daar ul-Islam we must travel together, as did the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) and his Companions. Furthermore, we need transportation, i.e. a vehicle, instructions (the Qur’aan and Sunnah) and a map (the manhaj – following the Saved Sect). In our case the vehicle is not a car or van, but rather a Jamaa’ah (within Ahl us-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah). Any jamaa’ah that is not within the fold of ASWJ (Ahl us-Sunnah wal-Jamaa’ah) is not allowed to exist and is one of the greatest obstacles in the way of unity between Muslims.
From Makkah to al-Madeenah
For us to establish this great duty, we must follow the method which the Prophet (SAW) and his Companions engaged in from Makkah (revelation) to al-Madeenah (implementation). The method to establish Daar ul-Islam is not how many people think, such as to summarise the method into one hukm: Jihaad (which is useless without to understand Tawheed).
We must study the life of the Prophet (SAW) and his journey from Makkah to al-Madeenah. We must study what path he took, which vehicle he travelled in, who accompanied him, what map he was following and what luggage he took with him. Whenever we study the Seerah (life or biography) of the Messenger Muhammad (SAW), there are three main significant things for us to note and take lesson from which form the main part of the methodology to establish the Islamic state:
Da’wah to Islam
a) Calling people to Tawheed
The Messenger Muhammad (SAW) conveyed the message of Islam from the very moment he received revelation from Allah via Jibreel. He invited his wife Khadeejah (RA) to Islam, and then his best friend Abu Bakr (RA) and his cousin ‘Ali (RA). It is also narrated that Abu Bakr (RA) invited six other people to Islam and they accepted. There is no doubt whatsoever among any Muslim that this was the first part of the method to establish Allah’s Deen and a great obligation in Islam.
b) Teaching and culturing Islam
Another clear fact based upon the teachings of classical scholars and the Seerah, is that the Prophet (SAW) used to regularly culture and teach his Companions about Islam in Daar ul-Arqam. This is where he worked on their ‘Aqeedah, Tawheed, Walaa' (love for Muslims) and Baraa (hatred for the Kuffaar), Tawakkul (trust in Allah) and Taqwaa (fear from Allah) etc. He would teach them the cost of Paradise and the sacrifice needed to fulfil their ultimate aim in life – to please Allah (SWT)
It was in this meeting place (office) where the Nabi (SAW) formed his jamaa’ah that was to work collectively and destroy any form of disunity. The Quraish were fully aware of their da’wah and regular meetings, but were totally surprised from the strength, will power and desire to sacrifice for the sake of Allah. In the eyes of the Kuffaar, they saw a collective body of Muslims who were so united under a man who was poor and illiterate, and also had no wealth or riches to offer them.
Commanding Good and Forbidding Evil / Exposing Taaghout
Everyone witnessed the amount of hatred the Messenger (SAW) had for the kufr and shirk and how he worked day and night to expose the munkar (evil) of society, their false gods and way of life. This was because Allah (SWT) ordered His Messenger (SAW) and the Sahaabah to work collectively and proclaim the message of Islam publicly, exposing the munkar and ills of society:
فَاصْدَعْ بِمَا تُؤْمَرُ وَأَعْرِضْ عَنِ الْمُشْرِكِينَ
‘Proclaim openly that which you are commanded, and turn away from the Mushrikoon.” (EMQ al-Hijr, 15:94)
Seeking Nusrah (Authority)
This was the final stage of working for the Khilaafah. After inviting society to Islam (generating public profile), exposing all forms of kufr and shirk (commanding good and forbidding evil), the Messenger (SAW) then sought authority and power to enforce the Sharee’ah upon the whole of mankind, visiting tribe to tribe in search for those who were willing to die for the sake of Allah (SWT).
No Diversions
We must remain firm and stick to the track of the Messenger (SAW) and never divert from our objectives. At no point should we ever go beyond the boundaries - always being focused on the objective and never being busy with less important issues such as building a clinic, surgery or school.
Establishing a school or clinic may be helpful and aid the Muslim community in the short term, but it is actually a great divert from the path of establishing Tawheed. In fact, we have learnt a great lesson from those secular Muslims who have their so-called Islamic schools and centres, yet they have done nothing for the global Ummah and remain busy with local issues rather than international.
Besides, a school can only educate a few hundred people in one borough, but who is going to educate the other 1.5 billion Muslims on earth? The interest of the global Ummah takes priority over the small numbers; in this case the interest we are referring to is removing the occupation in Muslim lands and the kufr law on earth. Once we become busy with schools and colleges it will divert all of our attention towards the recommended whilst leaving the greater obligations such as establishing the Sharee’ah. How would it look is we were to pray Taraweeh (the recommended e.g. establishing a school) but leave Salaat ul-‘Ishaa (the obligatory, e.g. establishing the Khilaafah)?
The Vehicle
The vehicle chosen by Rasoolullah (SAW) was not to share power with the kufr regimes, participate in a democratic government, or join the Kaafir police force and military. Neither was it to seek help from the Kuffaar or lock himself inside the mosque and make dhikr by himself as many deviant Muslims are doing today.
The vehicle the Messenger of Allah (SAW) had was the people who were with him, i.e. the Sahaabah, and the map he had was not the UN resolutions or British law, rather it was the Qur’aan and Sunnah. Allah’s Messenger (SAW) said in the famous hadeeth:
تركت فيكم شيئين لن تضلوا بعدهما: كتاب الله وسنتي
‘I have left you on two things (which if hold on to) you will never be misguided, the Book of Allah and my Sunnah.’ (Al-Jaami’ as-Sagheer #3282)
The Necessary Luggage for the Traveller
The most important aspect or concern for any traveller is his luggage. Therefore, we must know what luggage is necessary for us to take with us, and which luggage Allah’s Messenger (SAW) and his Companions had with them whilst travelling from Daar ul-Kufr to Daar ul-Islam. The first and most important luggage any sincere Muslim should have with them is:
1. الإيمان بالله Al-Eemaanu Billaah – Believing in Allah
Allah (SWT) says in the Qur’aan:
إِنَّ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ إِنَّا لا نُضِيعُ أَجْرَ مَنْ أَحْسَنَ عَمَلا
“Verily those who believe and do righteous deeds…” (EMQ al-Kahf, 18:30)
And Abu Dhar (RA) once asked the Prophet (SAW):
عن أبي ذر، قال: قلت: يا رسول الله! أي الأعمال أفضل؟ قال: الإيمان بالله، والجهاد في سبيله...
‘Oh Messenger of Allah (SAW)! What is the best action? He (SAW) said: Believing in Allah and fighting Jihaad in the way of Allah’ (Saheeh Muslim, Book of Eemaan, Chapter 36, Hadeeth #84)
There are many other numerous verses and ahaadeeth where Allah mentions and informs us that the only way to success is to have the correct Eemaan. This means that we must have the Eemaan of the Sahaabah, hence we must believe that Eemaan has three main pillars: conviction in the heart, testifying by the tongue and practicing willingly.
2. العمل الصالح Al-‘Amal us-Saalih – Good Deeds and Fulfilling the Commands of Allah (SWT)
Allah (SWT) says in the Qur’aan:
إِنَّ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ كَانَتْ لَهُمْ جَنَّاتُ الْفِرْدَوْسِ نُزُلا
“Verily! Those who believe and do righteous deeds shall have the Gardens of Al-Firdaws (the Paradise) for their entertainment.” (EMQ al-Kahf, 18:107)
إِنَّ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ سَيَجْعَلُ لَهُمُ الرَّحْمَنُ وُدًّا
“Verily, those who believe and work deeds of righteousness, the Most Beneficent (Allah) will bestow love for them (in the hearts of the believers).” (EMQ Maryam, 19:96)
3. الإخلاص Al-Iklaas – Sincerity
Allah (SWT) says:
وَمَا أُمِرُوا إِلا لِيَعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ مُخْلِصِينَ لَهُ الدِّينَ حُنَفَاءَ وَيُقِيمُوا الصَّلاةَ وَيُؤْتُوا الزَّكَاةَ وَذَلِكَ دِينُ الْقَيِّمَةِ
“And they were commanded not, but that they should worship Allah, and worship none but Him Alone (abstaining from ascribing partners to Him), and perform As-Salaah and give Zakaah: and that is the right religion.” (EMQ al-Bayyinah, 98:5)
إِنَّا أَنْزَلْنَا إِلَيْكَ الْكِتَابَ بِالْحَقِّ فَاعْبُدِ اللَّهَ مُخْلِصًا لَهُ الدِّينَ
“Verily, We have sent down the Book to you in truth: So worship Allah (Alone) by doing religious deeds sincerely for Allah's sake only, (and not to show-off, and not to set up rivals with Him in worship).” (EMQ az-Zumar, 39:2)
Doing good deeds is no way enough for one to achieve the pleasure of Allah (SWT) and enter Jannah unless they are done sincerely for his sake. This means that one should never do good deeds for the sake of being praised or to show off. In fact, showing off (ar-Riyaa') is a form of shirk and could lead to sever punishment in the Hereafter.
4. التأسي والمتابعة At-Ta'assie wal-Mutaaba’ah – Emulating and Following the Messenger Muhammad (SAW) and his Companions
The Messenger Muhammad (SAW) said:
كلُّ أمتي يدخلون الجنة إلا من أبى، قالوا: يا رسول الله، ومن يأبى؟ قال: من أطاعني دخل الجنة، ومن عصاني فقد أبى
‘Everyone of my Ummah will enter Paradise except the one who reject. He (SAW) was asked: ‘Who are those who reject oh Rasoolullah?’ He (SAW) said: Whosoever obeys me will enter Paradise, and whosoever disobeys me is the one who rejects.’ (Saheeh al-Bukhaari, Book 96: Holding Fast to the Qur’aan and Sunnah, Chapter 2, Hadeeth #7280)
And Allah (SWT) says:
وَمَا آتَاكُمُ الرَّسُولُ فَخُذُوهُ وَمَا نَهَاكُمْ عَنْهُ فَانْتَهُوا وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ إِنَّ اللَّهَ شَدِيدُ الْعِقَابِ
“And whatsoever the Messenger (SAW) gives you take it, and whatsoever he forbids you, abstain (from it), and fear Allah. Verily, Allah is severe in punishment.” (EMQ al-Hashr, 59:7)
لا تَجْعَلُوا دُعَاءَ الرَّسُولِ بَيْنَكُمْ كَدُعَاءِ بَعْضِكُمْ بَعْضًا قَدْ يَعْلَمُ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ يَتَسَلَّلُونَ مِنْكُمْ لِوَاذًا فَلْيَحْذَرِ الَّذِينَ يُخَالِفُونَ عَنْ أَمْرِهِ أَنْ تُصِيبَهُمْ فِتْنَةٌ أَوْ يُصِيبَهُمْ عَذَابٌ أَلِيمٌ
“…and let those who oppose the Messenger's (SAW) commandment (i.e. his Sunnah, orders, acts of worship, statements, etc.) beware, lest some Fitnah (disbelief, trials, afflictions, earthquakes, killing, overpowered by a tyrant, etc.) befall them or a painful torment be inflicted on them.” (EMQ an-Noor, 24:63)
5. التقوى At-Taqwaa – Fearing from Allah (SWT)
Allah (SWT) says:
فَإِنَّ خَيْرَ الزَّادِ التَّقْوَى وَاتَّقُونِ يَا أُولِي الألْبَابِ
“…the best preparation is Taqwaa.” (EMQ al-Baqarah, 2:197)
When the Prophet (SAW) used to teach the Muslims about Islam, he taught them about these preparations and the necessary luggage which they needed in order to be properly prepared and equipped for the da’wah. If was for this reason that the vehicle of the da’wah continued, and will always continue even if some people fall off on the way. The greatest traveller Muhammad (SAW) passed away, yet this never stopped the Sahaabah and they continued their journey due to their excellent preparation.