Main Topic
A commentary on the closing passages of Surah Al-Ma'idah from the seventh Juz, using the story of the disciples (Hawariyyun) of Sayyiduna Isa (A.S.) requesting a table spread from heaven to illustrate the difference between a transactional relationship with Allah Ta'ala and true servitude (ubudiyyah).
Key Lessons
- Requesting miracles or making conditional vows (nadhr) can reflect an inappropriate bargaining mindset with Allah Ta'ala.
- A person with a "worker" mentality in Deen asks what work must be done and what reward will be received, whereas a true "slave" ('abd) submits entirely to the Master's will with absolute contentment.
- Performing wazaif or acts of worship solely to solve worldly problems rather than to gain Allah Ta'ala's pleasure leads to frustration and spiritual disappointment.
- True spiritual lovers look past the hardship itself and focus on Allah Ta'ala's decree, deriving spiritual satisfaction from His presence and care.
- The restraint practiced during Ramadan is meant to instill constant taqwa and awareness that Allah Ta'ala is watching every action.
Quranic/Hadith References
- Surah Al-Ma'idah (5:111-115): The story of the Hawariyyun asking Sayyiduna Isa (A.S.) for a table spread (Ma'idah) from the heavens, his warning to them (Ittaqullah in kuntum mu'mineen), his dua, and Allah Ta'ala's response.
- Surah Al-Baqarah (2:260): Reference to Sayyiduna Ibrahim (A.S.) asking to see how Allah revives the dead to achieve heart-tranquility (li-yatma'inna qalbi).
- Hadith of Sayyiduna Ammar bin Yasir (R.A.): The Prophet (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) mentioned the descending table spread contained food, and those who disbelieved and hoarded were punished.
Practical Advice
- Purify intentions when engaging in worship or recitations; seek Allah Ta'ala's pleasure rather than treating spiritual practices as transactional tools.
- Adopt the mindset of a slave who owns nothing and submits desires entirely to the Master.
- Carry the mindfulness of fasting into daily life by reminding yourself "Allah is watching me" when tempted by haram on phones, through the gaze, or in speech.
Hazrat Moulana Dawood Seedat Saheb