The Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said:
"The most excellent jihad is that for the conquest of self."
[Bukhari]
A beautiful and powerful word falls too frequently from the lips of angry, hateful, and brainwashed terrorists; its meaning has been tainted by historical acts of violence and ignorance.
Jihad.
The popular translation "holy war" provided by many non-Muslim media sources is as inaccurate as the notion perpetuated by some extremist groups that jihad justifies suicide bombings and attacks on innocent bystanders. (Islam forbids suicide and the killing of innocent people). In truth, jihad is an Arabic word meaning to struggle or strive, and in an Islamic context, it refers to struggling for the Cause of God or in God's Way - trying to extinguish the flames of injustice and wrongdoing.
One can "make jihad" on a daily basis. The type and level of the action varies with every person and situation. The nature of jihad may be physical or non-physical, so in theory, it can involve the use of a military or weapons; however, this so-called "holy war" is a rarity. It's not a romanticized battle of bloodshed, but rather a fight to create or restore justice. And if it does occur, there are formal processes and regulations. But many people fail to recognize that jihad extends to actions much less physical, such as trying to combat an unhealthy addiction, and that we can strive to better anything and anyone from the global community to ourselves as individuals.
The Prophet (pbuh) often emphasized the importance of personal jihad, and with this I say that I'm grateful for the countless opportunities to improve my character. They may come in the form of trials and hardships, but in reality, they're one of the most genuine blessings. Here is God, giving us a chance to live and learn, to help ourselves and others.
To grow, to change, to blossom. But this beauty will be reflected in our thoughts, words, and actions - in the warmth of our smile and strength of our character, rather than our wealth or appearance.
And this beauty may very well illuminate the world.
I'm fortunate to have my struggles and all of the other breathtaking blessings You have sent my way.
Jihad.
The popular translation "holy war" provided by many non-Muslim media sources is as inaccurate as the notion perpetuated by some extremist groups that jihad justifies suicide bombings and attacks on innocent bystanders. (Islam forbids suicide and the killing of innocent people). In truth, jihad is an Arabic word meaning to struggle or strive, and in an Islamic context, it refers to struggling for the Cause of God or in God's Way - trying to extinguish the flames of injustice and wrongdoing.
One can "make jihad" on a daily basis. The type and level of the action varies with every person and situation. The nature of jihad may be physical or non-physical, so in theory, it can involve the use of a military or weapons; however, this so-called "holy war" is a rarity. It's not a romanticized battle of bloodshed, but rather a fight to create or restore justice. And if it does occur, there are formal processes and regulations. But many people fail to recognize that jihad extends to actions much less physical, such as trying to combat an unhealthy addiction, and that we can strive to better anything and anyone from the global community to ourselves as individuals.
The Prophet (pbuh) often emphasized the importance of personal jihad, and with this I say that I'm grateful for the countless opportunities to improve my character. They may come in the form of trials and hardships, but in reality, they're one of the most genuine blessings. Here is God, giving us a chance to live and learn, to help ourselves and others.
To grow, to change, to blossom. But this beauty will be reflected in our thoughts, words, and actions - in the warmth of our smile and strength of our character, rather than our wealth or appearance.
And this beauty may very well illuminate the world.
[retrieved from fineartamerica.com]
I'm fortunate to have my struggles and all of the other breathtaking blessings You have sent my way.
In no particular order:
My family and friends.
My pet(s).
Faith.
Music.
Love.
Nature.
Dessert.
Scented candles.
Novels.
Photographs.
Laughter.
Education.
Conversation.
Faith.
Music.
Love.
Nature.
Dessert.
Scented candles.
Novels.
Photographs.
Laughter.
Education.
Conversation.
Life.
Embrace.
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