Day 2
Emulating the akhlaq of Allah - Mercy and Kindness
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Welcome to episode 2 of “Be Quranic”. In our last session, we delved into the meaning of 'Bismillah', and today, inshaAllah, we will continue to explore and complete the understanding of the ayah: Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem. Our aim for this new year is to cultivate a habit of starting every action with 'Bismillah', thereby aligning our intentions with the name of Allah and seeking His assistance in all our endeavors.
Today, we will delve into the beautiful names of Allah: Ar-Rahman and Ar-Raheem. These names, often translated as 'the most compassionate' and 'the most merciful', encapsulate the essence of divine love and care. It's fascinating that Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem appears 114 times in the Quran, marking the beginning of every surah except for Surah At-Taubah, and it's mentioned twice in Surah An-Naml. This repetition seems to emphasize Allah's desire for us to know Him as a God of love and compassion.
Indeed, Allah embodies numerous attributes: He is Al-Jabbar, the Compeller, and Al-Muntaqim, the Avenger; He is also Al-Adl, the Just. However, the attributes He wants us to connect with most are Ar-Rahman and Ar-Raheem, His loving aspects. This is also how we should introduce Allah to young people and children: as a God who is not only loving and compassionate but also just and powerful.
Bismillah Ar-Rahman Ar-Rahim. Now, let's understand what Ar-Rahman and Ar-Rahim mean. These terms share the same trilateral root word in Arabic: ر ح م, which also means 'womb'. This connection suggests a deep, nurturing love. The Prophet Muhammad (SAW) narrated that Allah said, “I have derived the womb (rahm) from My Name, Ar-Rahman”. To comprehend Ar-Rahman, consider the womb's function: it provides everything a baby needs without requiring anything in return. This unconditional support and sustenance is reflective of Allah's love and care for us.
But there's a distinction: while Allah's Rahman is experienced by all, believer or non-believer, His Rahim is reserved for believers, a blessing for the Akhirah in Jannah.
Our quest today is to embrace and reflect the qualities of Allah in our lives. As Imam Al-Ghazali wrote, a Mu'min should strive to embody Allah's attributes (Akhlaq). Knowing that Allah is compassionate, kind, and loving, we too should strive to be compassionate, kind, and loving towards others, especially those closest to us. The Prophet (SAW) said, "The best among you are those who are best to their families, and I am the best to my family." True kindness begins at home.
Let's challenge ourselves today: How can we enhance the lives of our family members? Be observant, offer help, and show extra kindness, not just because they deserve it, but because we are doing it in the name of Allah, for His sake. This is our mission: to spread kindness and mercy, starting with our families.
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