Hashtag GOALS

Allah – exalted is He (SWT) says: “Know that the life of this world is but amusement and diversion and adornment … And what is the worldly life except the enjoyment of delusion?” (Qur’an 57:20).

SubhanAllah, if there was ever anything that encapsulated that verse in its entirety; I would say the advent of social media wins hands down. Scrolling through the countless selfies depicting #ontrend #ootd (outfits of the day), #couplegoals, and holidays straight out of a travel magazine; one can easily become engrossed in these picture perfect lives – to the extent where it leaves one feeling somewhat unaccomplished and even bitter. When success is dictated by what’s on trend, it’s easy to lose focus on what the ultimate goal is. This rings true to the younger, more impressionable generation especially. We’ve becomes so fixated on chasing after worldly goals and desires that we forget to work toward our Akhira.

The Reminder – Al-Qur’an

“Indeed, We have sent down for you (O mankind) a book (the Quran) in which there is Dhikrukum, (your Reminder or an honour for you i.e. honour for the one who follows the teaching of the Quran and acts on its teachings). Will you not then understand?”(Qur’an Surah Al-Anbiya, Verse 10)

Indeed the Dunya is filled with many distractions; it aims to coax us into submission. However, Allah SWT – the Most Merciful – the All-Wise, has not left Insaan without guidance;

“… And We have sent down to you the Book (the Qur’an), as an exposition of everything, a guidance, a mercy, and glad tidings for those who have submitted themselves (to Allah as Muslims).” (Qur’an Surah An-Nahl, Verse 89)

As it is within the nature of Insaan to be forgetful; the Qur’an serves as both a reminder and as a guide – a roadmap toward the Siraatul Mustaqeem. Regular recitation and reflection illuminates the heart and brings the reader in touch with the soul’s natural disposition i.e. fitrah, effectively purifying and cleansing the heart from Dunya diseases and distractions and reminding one of the ultimate purpose and goal. Allah Almighty says in Quran:

“O mankind! There hath come to you an admonition from your Lord and a healing for the (diseases) in your hearts and for those who believe a Guidance and Mercy.” (Qur’an 10:57). Rasulullah SAW further encourages the recitation of the Qur’an and reinforces that the tilaawah of Qur’an cleanses the heart: “These hearts become rusty just as iron does when water affects it.” On being asked what could clear them, he (saw) replied “A great amount of remembrance of death and recitation of the Qur’an.” [Tirmidhi 673].

Indeed Allah bestows us with His infinite blessings in this Dunya. However we have to remain mindful that this Dunya is not our final abode and thus ensure that we keep the Akhira in focus. May our actions be purely for His sake, may our hearts be pure and free of Dunya attachments and may Allah keep us steadfast on our journey so that we may achieve the ultimate GOAL i.e. to stand before Allah almighty, receive our Book of deeds in our right hand and tell everyone هَآؤُمُ اقْرَؤُاْ كِتَـبيَهْ “here! Read my Record!” (Qur’an 69:19). Ameen