Following in the footsteps of Nabi ﷺ

Main Topic

Resisting satanic temptations, preserving Islamic identity, and avoiding participation in non-Islamic celebrations and customs.

Key Lessons

• The inspirational account of the Tabi'i Hazrat Sulaiman bin Yasar (Rahimahullah), who resisted a severe temptation of sin by immediately turning to Allah Ta'ala with tears and fear.
• The importance of recognizing the traps of Shaitan (Iblis) and the nafs, which manifest in various forms such as lust, anger, dishonesty, backbiting, and sinning with the gaze or tongue.
• The historical pagan origins of January 1st celebrations, rooted in the worship of the Roman deity Janus, and why Muslims must completely disassociate from these practices.
• The obligation to guard one's Iman from being diluted by worldly influences or non-Muslim cultural and religious festivities.

Quranic/Hadith References

• Surah An-Nur (24:21): Cautioning believers not to follow the footsteps of Shaitan ("Ya ayyuha alladhina amanu la tattabi'u khutuwati al-shaytan...").

Practical Advice

• Turn immediately to Allah Ta'ala through repentance and crying when confronted with temptations or sinful situations.
• Avoid frequenting places or gatherings where sins are openly committed, especially during commercialized holiday seasons.
• Refrain from offering non-Islamic holiday greetings, making New Year's resolutions, or naming business promotions after pagan celebrations.
• Plan financial incentives or bonuses for employees during Islamic occasions like Eid rather than aligning them with non-Muslim holiday periods.