Lesson Thirty - Three: Obstacles To Obedience

Many of us do not wish to disobey Allah (S.W.A) on purpose. There are factors that force us to do so. One of these factors is not knowing exactly whether doing or not doing something is right or wrong – the gray area - the point where right and wrong almost meet. We are most likely to fall into this trap if we lead passive lives. We must never live in gray areas. We must always look, ask, and solve that which perplexes us. To live in gray areas is very dangerous to our object of life –to worship, to serve, and to obey Allah S.W.A). We may not be sinning, but we will not also be doing any good.

Allah (S.W.A) knew that difficulties would arise and mankind would have a hard time leading a purposeful life. Therefore, in addition to teaching us instinctively the difference between right and wrong, He chose among us prophets, some of whom he gave books, to warn, to teach, and to guide us out of confusions. Prophets were endowed with knowledge and wisdom to do their job of guiding fellow humans better. Although prophets never lived forever, their books are still here with us; in fact, one particular book is guaranteed authenticity until the end of time. This is the Holy Qur’an. Mankind corrupted many of Allah (S.W.A)’s books – deleted what they didn’t like and added what they liked. The Holy Qur’an, though, is the last revelation, and Allah (S.W.A) promised protection for it from all man's corruption. In Allah’s words:

”We have, without doubt, sent down the message; and we will assuredly guard it (9:15)”

It is now fourteen centuries old and it is as original as it has ever been. Therefore, one way to minimize gray areas in our lives is to read the Holy Qur’an. We must read this book a lot. We must read it everyday even if it is only for a verse. The constant reading then will mould and influence our decision-making mechanism to making and picking right decisions/choices (naturally acceptable choices). Allah (S.W.A) speaks:

”Oh Man Kind! There has come to you a direction from your lord and a healing for (the diseases) in your hearts and for those who believe, a guidance and a mercy (10:57)”