Main Topic
Reflecting on historical plagues and widespread mortality to understand that trials are a test from Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala, reminding us to respond through repentance, abandoning sins, and preparing for death with Iman.
Key Lessons
- Severe pandemics and plagues are not unprecedented in human or Islamic history, as recorded by scholars like Hafiz ibn Hajar Rahimahullah and Ibn Kathir Rahimahullah.
- Every soul has a prescribed lifespan and decreed number of breaths; death cannot be delayed or avoided when its appointed time arrives.
- Calamities and trials serve as divine reminders for humanity to rectify their conduct and return to their Creator.
- Spiritual causes—such as widespread immodesty, open sin, and neglect of divine commands—draw severe spiritual and physical consequences upon communities.
- True relief from trials comes through turning to A'maal (righteous deeds), sincere repentance, and attaching oneself to the remembrance of Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala.
Quranic/Hadith References
- The Prophet Sallallahu alayhi wasallam asked a Sahabi who inquired about Qiyamah: "What have you prepared for it?"
- Sayyidina Abdullah ibn Mas'ud Radhiyallahu anhu and Sayyidina Abdullah ibn Abbas Radhiyallahu anhuma highlighted that moral corruption, withholding Zakat, and open sin lead to trials, drought, and loss of blessings.
- Sayyidina Umar Radhiyallahu anhu noted how public sin and transgression lead to severe real-world consequences, as seen during the Plague of Amwas.
Practical Advice
- Turn to Allah subhanahu wa ta'ala through sincere Tawbah, Istighfar, Tahajjud, and Dua.
- Eliminate sins from daily life, including immodesty, indecent media, music, and intoxicants.
- Maintain strict adherence to Islamic modesty (Haya and Hijab) within homes and gatherings.
- Avoid pointless bickering and social media arguments, focusing instead on internal rectification.
- Recognize that while practical means may be adopted, ultimate safety and salvation lie in dying with Iman.
Hazrat Moulana Dawood Seedat Saheb