Be Muslim Students[Slideshare]

: THE SINCERE ADVICE النصيحة

“BE A MUSLIM STUDENT”BY: ZHULKEFLEE HJ ISMAIL

For “NUSMS - National University of Singapore Muslim Society” – workshop.Prince George Park, Function Room 4,National University of Singapore.20 August 2009 / 29 Sha’ban 1430 AH

1AllRightsReserved©Zhulkeflee2009

TASAWWUR ISLAMTASAWWUR ISLAM

2

University Preparatory Workshop for Muslims

Synopsis

The first year of University is a crucial year that determines how the individual will do in the next few years of his/her undergraduate life.

Having the right footing from the start can make a difference in the subsequent years in University.

This two-day workshop aims to share with freshmen starting out in their first year, invaluable advice, experiences and tips from successful and holistic individuals who have been through it all, from fellow undergrads, Dean's listers, PhD students and Profs.

ADVERTISEMENT IN ISLAMIC EVENT

AllRightsReserved©Zhulkeflee2009

TO BEGINTO BEGIN



بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم الحمد لله رب العالمين وصالة

والسالم على اشرف األنبيأ والمرسلين وعلى آله وصحبه

اجمعينIn The Name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful.In The Name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful.The Praise be to Allah, Lord of the worlds. And Salutation The Praise be to Allah, Lord of the worlds. And Salutation and the Peace be upon the Leader of all the Prophets and and the Peace be upon the Leader of all the Prophets and Messengers, and upon his family and all his companions.Messengers, and upon his family and all his companions.



5

"Glory to Thee (Allah): of knowledge we "Glory to Thee (Allah): of knowledge we have none, save that Thou hast taught have none, save that Thou hast taught us: in truth it is Thou who art perfect in us: in truth it is Thou who art perfect in knowledge and wisdom."knowledge and wisdom."



6

:ح9ا >ا ف>ت >ن >ح: ل ?ف:ت :مA إ ?ي >اع>ل >احA ي >ا ف>ت ي9ا ق>ر?ب

“ “O (Allah! Who is the) Opener, O (Allah! Who is the) Opener, O (Allah! Who is the) All-Knowing, O (Allah! Who is the) All-Knowing,

open for us the opening that brings us open for us the opening that brings us closer (to You).”closer (to You).”



BACKGROUND

• As Muslims, giving sincere advice is an obligation As Muslims, giving sincere advice is an obligation between us, especially for those who may know a between us, especially for those who may know a little – even though unsolicited, because Allah little – even though unsolicited, because Allah s.w.t. expects us to be enjoining one another s.w.t. expects us to be enjoining one another towards truth and towards patient constancy.towards truth and towards patient constancy.

• Moreover, knowledge comes with responsibility, Moreover, knowledge comes with responsibility, and in times of neglect and confusion, duty and and in times of neglect and confusion, duty and trust (trust (amanahamanah) beckons whenever it is needed.) beckons whenever it is needed.

• Yet, this session is not meant to be a lecture, merely Yet, this session is not meant to be a lecture, merely my sharing of perspective as an advice, hopefully it my sharing of perspective as an advice, hopefully it can be of some benefit to those who regard can be of some benefit to those who regard themselves as Muslim students.themselves as Muslim students.



BACKGROUND

• I am not a graduate from any university nor colleges. I am not a graduate from any university nor colleges. Neither am I from any full-time Madrasah nor from Neither am I from any full-time Madrasah nor from Islamic university. Islamic university.

• I am merely a perpetual student of Islam (home-grown) I am merely a perpetual student of Islam (home-grown) who is struggling to fulfil his duty as a Muslim – in who is struggling to fulfil his duty as a Muslim – in following the way of our predecessors – to learn and to following the way of our predecessors – to learn and to serve Allah s.w.t., and in upholding the serve Allah s.w.t., and in upholding the DeenDeen of of al-Islamal-Islam through through khidmahkhidmah (service) to the (service) to the ummahummah. .

• I admit though, that I am passionate about Islam, Islamic I admit though, that I am passionate about Islam, Islamic Da’wahDa’wah and the education of the entire and the education of the entire ummahummah (human (human race) – as Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. is to me, the race) – as Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. is to me, the model educator of humanity par excellence. model educator of humanity par excellence.



BACKGROUND

• These are the only qualification that I can offer.These are the only qualification that I can offer.• I was first asked to speak on the topic: “I was first asked to speak on the topic: “A Complete A Complete

StudentStudent” which I have to decline, as this would be ” which I have to decline, as this would be too presumptuous for me, because I myself is still too presumptuous for me, because I myself is still struggling to learn.struggling to learn.

• What I can do perhaps, is to share the little that I What I can do perhaps, is to share the little that I know as a perpetual Muslim student, especially know as a perpetual Muslim student, especially from the experience which Allah s.w.t. has favoured from the experience which Allah s.w.t. has favoured me thus far, in my journey as a seeker (me thus far, in my journey as a seeker (talibtalib) and a ) and a traveller (traveller (saliksalik) upon the path () upon the path (tariqtariq) of knowledge ) of knowledge and wisdom (and wisdom (‘‘ilm wa Hikmahilm wa Hikmah).).



ADVICEADVICE



THE ADVICE• Firstly, we as Muslims must invite each other Firstly, we as Muslims must invite each other

towards “towards “TAQWATAQWA” – as ALLAH S.W.T. commands:” – as ALLAH S.W.T. commands:


““O you who have attained to faith! Be conscious O you who have attained to faith! Be conscious of Allah with a true consciousness, and do not of Allah with a true consciousness, and do not

allow death to overtake you unless you are allow death to overtake you unless you are (in state of submission to Allah) in Islam. (in state of submission to Allah) in Islam.

((Qur’an: Aali ‘Imran: 3: 102)Qur’an: Aali ‘Imran: 3: 102)


THE ADVICE• As Muslims, let us remind each other that we are As Muslims, let us remind each other that we are

people who have taken our “people who have taken our “shahadahtainshahadahtain” – a very ” – a very serious and solemn pledge to become witnesses, to serious and solemn pledge to become witnesses, to project or manifest the Message of the Oneness of project or manifest the Message of the Oneness of God (Allah), Who Alone is Divine, and the Finality of God (Allah), Who Alone is Divine, and the Finality of the Prophethood of Muhammad s.a.w. after who the Prophethood of Muhammad s.a.w. after who there is no more prophet. Remember:there is no more prophet. Remember:““For, if one goes in search of a religion other than For, if one goes in search of a religion other than “al-Islam” (self-surrender to Allah), it will never be “al-Islam” (self-surrender to Allah), it will never be accepted from him, and in the life to come he shall accepted from him, and in the life to come he shall be among the lost.”be among the lost.”

((Qur’an: Aali- ‘Imran : 3:85Qur’an: Aali- ‘Imran : 3:85))



THE ADVICE• As Muslims, we are expected to live a life of sincere As Muslims, we are expected to live a life of sincere

submission, adhering to the teaching of our Prophet submission, adhering to the teaching of our Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. which would manifest justice, Muhammad s.a.w. which would manifest justice, truth, compassion and other qualities that will be truth, compassion and other qualities that will be like a guiding light to others. The word “like a guiding light to others. The word “shahadahshahadah” ” means “manifest, to be as witness, testify”, Thus :means “manifest, to be as witness, testify”, Thus :

“ “And thus have We willed you to be a community of the And thus have We willed you to be a community of the middle way (ummatan wasotan) [i.e. justly balanced], middle way (ummatan wasotan) [i.e. justly balanced], so that [with your lives] you might bear witness to the so that [with your lives] you might bear witness to the truth before all mankind (shuhadaa-a ‘alan-naas) truth before all mankind (shuhadaa-a ‘alan-naas)

((Qur’an: al- Baqarah: 2:143Qur’an: al- Baqarah: 2:143)” )”



““MUSLIM”MUSLIM”



WHAT IS THE IMPLICATION WHAT IS THE IMPLICATION FOR BEING A “MUSLIM”?FOR BEING A “MUSLIM”?• Although we may assume many roles and project various Although we may assume many roles and project various

identity relative to that roles, yet we must never forget identity relative to that roles, yet we must never forget that our most essential identity – nay, to strive to make it that our most essential identity – nay, to strive to make it as our eternal reality, must be that of being a “as our eternal reality, must be that of being a “MuslimMuslim”.”.

• The challenge would be to overcome the tendencies The challenge would be to overcome the tendencies amongst us to easily forget, or to be distracted, perhaps amongst us to easily forget, or to be distracted, perhaps being deceived leading to neglecting this most important being deceived leading to neglecting this most important fact as to who we are – as fact as to who we are – as MUSLIMSMUSLIMS. .

• Al-HamdulillaahAl-Hamdulillaah! Here you have ! Here you have NUSMSNUSMS which I believe which I believe was established towards reminding that you all are here was established towards reminding that you all are here as as MuslimMuslim undergraduates. undergraduates.

15AllRightsReserved©Zhulkeflee2009 TASAWWUR ISLAMTASAWWUR ISLAM

WHAT IS THE IMPLICATION WHAT IS THE IMPLICATION FOR BEING A “MUSLIM”?FOR BEING A “MUSLIM”?• As students and citizens we have common shared As students and citizens we have common shared

characteristics with other fellow students, yet we must characteristics with other fellow students, yet we must not deny that being Muslims, surely there are not deny that being Muslims, surely there are perspectives which we uniquely hold which differ from perspectives which we uniquely hold which differ from that of other non-Muslims. that of other non-Muslims.

• Being uniquely different in a multi-religious society is Being uniquely different in a multi-religious society is only logical and we should not be afraid to being who we only logical and we should not be afraid to being who we are, even though conspicuously different or even being are, even though conspicuously different or even being seen as ‘seen as ‘strangestrange’.’.

• As I have reflected before, our being a minority group As I have reflected before, our being a minority group anywhere, only enhances our role as ‘anywhere, only enhances our role as ‘witnesseswitnesses’ to the ’ to the other communities, perchance they too may be guided. other communities, perchance they too may be guided.


WHAT IS A “STUDENT” FROM AN ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE?

• Most of us take it for granted when we consider Most of us take it for granted when we consider ourselves as “ourselves as “studentsstudents”- but have we seriously ”- but have we seriously pondered, what is a “pondered, what is a “studentstudent”? Especially from the ”? Especially from the Islamic perspective because as Muslims, our Islamic perspective because as Muslims, our worldview obviously would be different from non-worldview obviously would be different from non-Muslims.Muslims.

• If you don’t know the difference, it would mean If you don’t know the difference, it would mean that your fundamentals (that your fundamentals (Fardhu ’ainFardhu ’ain) could be ) could be deficient, thus unable to effectively form an Islamic deficient, thus unable to effectively form an Islamic worldview (worldview (TASAWWUR ISLAMTASAWWUR ISLAM). ).



• In the absence of an Islamic worldview, you may have In the absence of an Islamic worldview, you may have already adopted the secularist’s or other perspectives already adopted the secularist’s or other perspectives – which may even be contrary, if not, different from – which may even be contrary, if not, different from that of Islam.that of Islam.

• It is indeed sad, nay frightening even, when some It is indeed sad, nay frightening even, when some Muslim ‘intellectuals’ are really, wittingly or Muslim ‘intellectuals’ are really, wittingly or unwittingly, advocates of ‘secularism’ rather than unwittingly, advocates of ‘secularism’ rather than that of Islam. Their being labelled ‘that of Islam. Their being labelled ‘MuslimMuslim’ then ’ then would deceive many into thinking that what they would deceive many into thinking that what they academically or intellectually expound in discourses academically or intellectually expound in discourses are Islamic.are Islamic.



• In your case as ‘undergraduates’ (In your case as ‘undergraduates’ (studentsstudents), surely by ), surely by adding the pre-fix “adding the pre-fix “MuslimMuslim” to it, there must be ” to it, there must be something significant or extra to the mere meaning something significant or extra to the mere meaning of ‘undergraduates’, wouldn’t it?of ‘undergraduates’, wouldn’t it?


““STUDENT”STUDENT”



LET ME SHARE : ANALYSIS OF LET ME SHARE : ANALYSIS OF TERMS RELEVANT TO MUSLIMTERMS RELEVANT TO MUSLIM

Taalib-’ilmTaalib-’ilm” – (student) but literally it ” – (student) but literally it“ “ طاليب علمmeans “means “one who seek after knowledge; one who one who seek after knowledge; one who pursuepursue, or want, desire…knowledge”, or want, desire…knowledge”

So the implication would be: So the implication would be: • One who knows what he is looking for.One who knows what he is looking for.• Expect to encounter obstacle and hindrance, but Expect to encounter obstacle and hindrance, but

committed to overcoming them.committed to overcoming them.• Conscious and determine to seek; it is active will, not Conscious and determine to seek; it is active will, not

passive, entailing going after it which include knowing passive, entailing going after it which include knowing or recognizing the means (or recognizing the means (wasilahwasilah); thus ready or ); thus ready or willingness to strive and make sacrifices;willingness to strive and make sacrifices;



MureedMureed” – (another term for student) but ” – (another term for student) but“ “ موريدliterally it means “literally it means “one who is desirous of ...”one who is desirous of ...”

This term is usually used for a student, when he has a This term is usually used for a student, when he has a teacher (teacher (sheikhsheikh), who is committed to supervise or ), who is committed to supervise or direct him in his development (usually spiritual).direct him in his development (usually spiritual).

So the implication would be: So the implication would be: • There is a direct commitment, of a teacher-student There is a direct commitment, of a teacher-student

relationship - tutelage. Not simply about knowledge but relationship - tutelage. Not simply about knowledge but the acceptance of the teacher’s role as the spiritual the acceptance of the teacher’s role as the spiritual educator.educator.

• The teachers role, although implied here, is significant.The teachers role, although implied here, is significant.22

AllRightsReserved©Zhulkeflee2009 TASAWWUR ISLAMTASAWWUR ISLAM


Til-miidzTil-miidz” – (another term for student, pupil) ” – (another term for student, pupil)““ تلميذbut it also means “but it also means “apprentice; probationer; trainee; apprentice; probationer; trainee; disciple...”disciple...”

This term is also usually used as when for a student This term is also usually used as when for a student who undergoes direct training under supervision of a who undergoes direct training under supervision of a teacher (especially for skills, competency and such).teacher (especially for skills, competency and such).

So the implication would be: So the implication would be: • The focus here is, the place of the student as trainee, in The focus here is, the place of the student as trainee, in

probation, whose development is still being supervised.probation, whose development is still being supervised.• Again, implied is the acceptance of the teacher’s role as Again, implied is the acceptance of the teacher’s role as

the supervisor-educator is to be highlighted.the supervisor-educator is to be highlighted.23



SaalikSaalik” – (traveller) literally “” – (traveller) literally “one who is on one who is on“ “ سالكthe path; one who enters into a coursthe path; one who enters into a course; ”e; ”

So the implication would be: So the implication would be: • There is a path to traverse, as in a journey with maps, There is a path to traverse, as in a journey with maps,

compasses and the preparedness to be able to read and compasses and the preparedness to be able to read and interpret signs and symbols, know-how in taking interpret signs and symbols, know-how in taking bearings and orientation, etc. bearings and orientation, etc.

• Knowledge of ultimate destination and various Knowledge of ultimate destination and various intermediate stopovers. Long and short-term goals.intermediate stopovers. Long and short-term goals.

• Thus, advice from those who has already journeyed – Thus, advice from those who has already journeyed – especially (especially (‘‘aleem-’aamilaleem-’aamil) - is indeed very valuable.) - is indeed very valuable.

• The length of time and necessity for having provision The length of time and necessity for having provision for the journey is implied.for the journey is implied.



• Imam ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib a.s. said:Imam ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib a.s. said:

اال التنال العلم اال بستة سأنبيك عن مجموعها ببيان ؛

ذكاوحرص واصطبار وبلغة وإرشاد استاذ وطول زمان

•“The pursuit of knowledge is not carried out without six things; which I shall inform you of, through words that are clear ;

[1] ingenious acumen, [2] fervent desire, [3] patient perseverance, [4] sufficient sustenance, [5] guidance of a teacher, and [6] length of time.”

(Imam ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib a.s. – quoted by Imam Zarnuji in Ta’lim muta’allim tariq al-ta’allum)


“EDUCATION”



WHAT IS “EDUCATION” WHAT IS “EDUCATION” FROM THE ISLAMIC FROM THE ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE?PERSPECTIVE?


Thus, perspective of Education in Islam can be defined:

““... Recognition and acknowledgement, progressively ... Recognition and acknowledgement, progressively instilled into man, of the proper places of things in instilled into man, of the proper places of things in the order of creation, such that it leads to the the order of creation, such that it leads to the recognition and acknowledgement of the proper recognition and acknowledgement of the proper place of God in the order of being and existence.”place of God in the order of being and existence.”

------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------ Quoted from: “The Educational Philosophy and Practice of Syed Muhammad Quoted from: “The Educational Philosophy and Practice of Syed Muhammad

Naquib Al-Attas” by Wan Mohd Nor Wan Daud (ISTAC publication).Naquib Al-Attas” by Wan Mohd Nor Wan Daud (ISTAC publication).------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------


28

WHAT IS THE AIM OF EDUCATION FROM THE ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE?

Syed M. Naquib Al-Attas asserts is: “... to produce a good man. What is meant by good in our concept of ‘good man’? The fundamental element inherent in the concept of education in Islam is the inculcation of ‘adab’ (ta’dib), for it is ‘adab’ in the all-inclusive sense I mean, as encompassing the spiritual and material life of a man that instils the quality of goodness that is sought after. Education is what the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. meant by Adab:

?ي: د?ب: >أ ن> ت ح:س>

< aي ف>أ ب ?ي: ر> >ن >دbب أAllRightsReserved©Zhulkeflee2009 TASAWWUR ISLAMTASAWWUR ISLAM

29

WHAT IS THE AIM OF EDUCATION FROM THE ISLAMIC PERSPECTIVE?

Syed M. Naquib Al-Attas asserts is : “... to produce a good man. What is meant by good in our concept of ‘good man’? The fundamental element inherent in the concept of education in Islam is the inculcation of ‘adab’ (ta’dib), for it is ‘adab’ in the all-inclusive sense I mean, as encompassing the spiritual and material life of a man that instils the quality of goodness that is sought after. Education is what the Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. meant by Adab:“My Lord educated me, and made my education

most excellent.”AllRightsReserved©Zhulkeflee2009 TASAWWUR ISLAMTASAWWUR ISLAM

30

QUOTE – (MY REFLECTIONS):QUOTE – (MY REFLECTIONS):

What I’ve learnt from the ways of my Islamic teachers: What I’ve learnt from the ways of my Islamic teachers: “Sometimes a way to motivate action in students is to “Sometimes a way to motivate action in students is to tolerate their childish fantasy in regard to their high tolerate their childish fantasy in regard to their high sense of self-esteem; but do not overlook to remind them sense of self-esteem; but do not overlook to remind them of of AdabAdab””

““AdabAdab” ” – sense of proportion and knowledge of their – sense of proportion and knowledge of their rightful place in the order of things, the absence of which rightful place in the order of things, the absence of which indicates injustice (indicates injustice (zulmzulm).).””

““BIADAB” BIADAB” – – Malay mean “uncouth, ill-mannered, Malay mean “uncouth, ill-mannered, uncultured, gross, etc.” which aptly typify a person who uncultured, gross, etc.” which aptly typify a person who lacks the kind of education which Islam aims for – not lacks the kind of education which Islam aims for – not mere paper-chase, but the moulding of a good person.mere paper-chase, but the moulding of a good person.


31

>الث? Aم: ع>ل>ى ث >د>ك و:ال< Aو:ا أ دaب

< أfخ?ص>ال ،

Aم: ، و>حAبa آل? aك ?ي >ب حAبa ن?ه? :ت >ي ، ب

آن? :قAر: >وAة?ال ?ال Educate (nurture) your children upon three Educate (nurture) your children upon three“و>تthings: To Love your Prophet (s.a.w.), And to things: To Love your Prophet (s.a.w.), And to love the Family members of his Household, love the Family members of his Household,

and learn to recite Al-Qur’an.”and learn to recite Al-Qur’an.”(Hadith of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. narrated by Thabrani)(Hadith of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w. narrated by Thabrani)



GENERALLY IT ENCOMPASSES:GENERALLY IT ENCOMPASSES:

LEARNING PATH OF A MUSLIM

Note the link between the Fardhu ‘Ain (Note the link between the Fardhu ‘Ain (DeeniyatDeeniyat) ) aspects aspects IIMAN-’AMAL-IHSANIIMAN-’AMAL-IHSAN , with the relevant , with the relevant Worldly sciences and empirical knowledge Worldly sciences and empirical knowledge ((DunyawiDunyawi).).

““TAUHIIDIC PARADIGM”TAUHIIDIC PARADIGM”



THEN , FROM HADITH JIBRIL A.S. IT STIPULATES:THEN , FROM HADITH JIBRIL A.S. IT STIPULATES:

33

‘ILM TAUHIID - ‘AQIDAH(Creed or Theology)

Purpose / Objective

Development of Certainty (Belief)Awareness of Reality / Truth

Develop discernment between Truth & Falsehood,

What is involved?‘Aql - (proper use of Reason / Intellect)

Fitrah - Instincts & innate feeling (perception)Tauqifiy – Revelations & reliable traditions

What is the Effect?

To develop firm conviction, strong principle,Commitment to concept of Unity & Justice of Allah

(Tauhiid); knowing the true purpose, role and Destiny of Man.

IIMAN Tauhiidic paradigmTauhiidic paradigm


34

‘ILM TAUHIID - ‘AQIDAH(Creed or Theology)

Purpose / Objective

Development of Certainty (Belief)Awareness of Reality / Truth

Develop discernment between Truth & Falsehood,

What is involved?‘Aql - (proper use of Reason / Intellect)

Fitrah - Instincts & innate feeling (perception)Tauqifiy – Revelations & reliable traditions

What is the Effect?

To develop firm conviction, strong principle,Commitment to concept of Unity & Justice of Allah

(Tauhiid); knowing the true purpose, role and Destiny of Man.

IIMAN

RELEVANT COMPLEMENTARY RELEVANT COMPLEMENTARY KNOWLEDGE:KNOWLEDGE:

Languages, Logic & philosophy,Languages, Logic & philosophy,Epistemology, Biology, Botany,Epistemology, Biology, Botany,

Chemistry, Physical sciences,Chemistry, Physical sciences,Astronomy, Geology, History,Astronomy, Geology, History,

Anthropology, Marine & Space,Anthropology, Marine & Space,Etc.Etc.

Tauhiidic paradigmTauhiidic paradigm


35

‘ILM FIQH(Practical Laws for life;

Learning of the Shari’ah)

Purpose / ObjectiveDevelopment of Correct Practices;

Submission & Obedience to Will of Allah (Islam)

What is involved?Knowing the law, rules as Guidance to every aspect of life

Capability to implementing them in life

What is the Effect?To develop a community of people,

Inviting to what is goodEnjoining what is right, and forbidding evil,

Advocating the fulfilment of AMANAH (Trust)As Allah’s Khalifah (vicegerent),

Establishing the Brotherhood of Man in The servitude of One God.

‘AMAL (ISLAM)Tauhiidic paradigmTauhiidic paradigm


36












BROAD EXTENT OF TOPICS COVERED IN FIQHBROAD EXTENT OF TOPICS COVERED IN FIQH‘‘ibadah ibadah (personal devotion / worship) (personal devotion / worship) MuamalahMuamalah (social transaction) (social transaction) MunakahahMunakahah (Marriage & family) (Marriage & family) Irth / fara’id Irth / fara’id (Distribution of wealth)(Distribution of wealth) JinayahJinayah (crimes & punishment) (crimes & punishment) Qoda’iyahQoda’iyah (judiciary) (judiciary) jihad /Da’wahjihad /Da’wah(struggle in war & peace)(struggle in war & peace) imarah imarah (Leadership/governmen(Leadership/government)t)


37












BROAD EXTENT OF TOPICS COVERED IN FIQHBROAD EXTENT OF TOPICS COVERED IN FIQH‘‘ibadah ibadah (personal devotion / worship) (personal devotion / worship) MuamalahMuamalah (social transaction) (social transaction) MunakahahMunakahah (Marriage & family) (Marriage & family) Irth / fara’id Irth / fara’id (Distribution of wealth)(Distribution of wealth) JinayahJinayah (crimes & punishment) (crimes & punishment) Qoda’iyahQoda’iyah (judiciary) (judiciary) jihad jihad (struggle in war & peace)(struggle in war & peace) imarah imarah (Leadership/government(Leadership/government))

RELEVANT COMPLEMENTARY RELEVANT COMPLEMENTARY KNOWLEDGE:KNOWLEDGE:

All applied sciences, technologyAll applied sciences, technologyand skills, knowledge of economics, politics, and skills, knowledge of economics, politics,

social & administrative social & administrative sciences etc. that can assist in the sciences etc. that can assist in the

fulfilment of establishing justice, order, peace, fulfilment of establishing justice, order, peace, harmony, prosperity, physical harmony, prosperity, physical

with moral progress, and the well-being with moral progress, and the well-being of Man & society, etc.of Man & society, etc.


38

‘ILM AKHLAQ / TASAWWUF / IRFAN(Science of human Disposition/ Sufism)

Purpose / Objective

Development of Righteous PersonalityPurification/perfection of the Self

What is involved?Reforming or purification of the Self (Nafs)Best behaviour in relationship with Allah,

within oneself, and with others.Knowledge of Self and of Allah (Gnosis)

What is the Effect?

Development of Most noble personality traitsFounded on Love of Allah, of all His prophets [Nabiyyin] especially the Seal of Prophethood Muhammad s.a.w.,

his Household [itrah or Ahlul-bayti wa Aali -Rasul] and loyal Companions [Ashaab], In fellowship with the Truthful [siddiqqin], the Witnesses & martyrs [shuhada] and the

Righteous servants of Allah [Solihin]; Striving to purify the Self (Nafs) and adorning it with the Exalted Moral traits of Our Beloved Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.

(The Perfected Man – “Insan Kaamil”)

IHSAN Tauhiidic paradigmTauhiidic paradigm


39

‘ILM AKHLAQ / TASAWWUF / IRFAN(Science of human Disposition/ Sufism)

Purpose / Objective

Development of Righteous PersonalityPurification/perfection of the Self

What is involved?Reforming or purification of the Self (Nafs)Best behaviour in relationship with Allah,

within oneself, and with others.Knowledge of Self and of Allah (Gnosis)

What is the Effect?

Development of Most noble personality traitsFounded on Love of Allah, of all His prophets [Nabiyyin] especially the Seal of Prophethood Muhammad s.a.w.,

his Household [itrah or Ahlul-bayti wa Aali -Rasul] and loyal Companions [Ashaab], In fellowship with the Truthful [siddiqqin], the Witnesses & martyrs [shuhada] and the

Righteous servants of Allah [Solihin]; Striving to purify the Self (Nafs) and adorning it with the Exalted Moral traits of Our Beloved Prophet Muhammad s.a.w.

(The Perfected Man – “Insan Kaamil”)

IHSANRELEVANT COMPLEMENTARY RELEVANT COMPLEMENTARY

KNOWLEDGE:KNOWLEDGE:This aspect of development requiresThis aspect of development requires

practical behaviour, the aspect of being practical behaviour, the aspect of being and becoming. Its area of development and becoming. Its area of development is the inner Self, the ‘human psyche’ oris the inner Self, the ‘human psyche’ or

the state of the Soul reflected in his the state of the Soul reflected in his Disposition (Disposition (AkhlaqAkhlaq). Therefore, the close ). Therefore, the close

equivalent may perhaps be ‘human’ equivalent may perhaps be ‘human’ psychology, behavioural sciences, manners & psychology, behavioural sciences, manners &

discipline, etc.discipline, etc.


Tauhiidic paradigmTauhiidic paradigm

A GENERAL OBSERVATION:• Although Muslims start learning their Although Muslims start learning their Fardhu ‘Ain Fardhu ‘Ain

lessons on Islam when young, this usually are as lessons on Islam when young, this usually are as ‘primers’ – simplified essences learnt by children, which ‘primers’ – simplified essences learnt by children, which is intended to be continuously inculcated with further is intended to be continuously inculcated with further elucidation as they grow-up.elucidation as they grow-up.

• Unfortunately, when they start formal school, Islamic Unfortunately, when they start formal school, Islamic lessons either stopped or its lessons stagnated at that lessons either stopped or its lessons stagnated at that level, without any increase in level of appreciation and level, without any increase in level of appreciation and understanding.understanding.

• Then, even when they continue, the learning of Islam Then, even when they continue, the learning of Islam became merely as subjects to learn (as in IRK), whereas became merely as subjects to learn (as in IRK), whereas they should be subjecting themselves to Islam, nurtured they should be subjecting themselves to Islam, nurtured in the in the TauhidicTauhidic paradigmparadigm of : of : IIMAN-’AMAL-IHSAN IIMAN-’AMAL-IHSAN – in – in tandem to their educational development, throughout.tandem to their educational development, throughout.


A GENERAL OBSERVATION:• Even though, some may continue to learn many things Even though, some may continue to learn many things

on Islam, perhaps also from books and internet, if this on Islam, perhaps also from books and internet, if this acquisition is disparate or truncated from the ‘organic’ acquisition is disparate or truncated from the ‘organic’ nurturing of the nurturing of the Tauhidic paradigmTauhidic paradigm, it would still not be , it would still not be a truly Islamic education.a truly Islamic education.

• The irony that the “The irony that the “University”University” from the word ( from the word (kulliyatkulliyat – – ‘‘universaluniversal’) which actually was inspired or copied from ’) which actually was inspired or copied from the “the “Jami’ahJami’ah” the centre where early Muslims learnt ” the centre where early Muslims learnt many sciences; unfortunately is now actually producing many sciences; unfortunately is now actually producing specialists and should rather be called “specialists and should rather be called “Specialise-tySpecialise-ty” : ” : because it is producing scholars with because it is producing scholars with ““Juz-’iy” Juz-’iy” ((particularparticular)) rather than having “rather than having “kulliykulliy” ” ((universaluniversal) ) knowledge – knowledge – nurtured and fused in the nurtured and fused in the Tauhidic paradigmTauhidic paradigm..


SO, HOW HAS OUR EDUCATION BEEN?

Reflect:•WHO ARE TRULY THE ERUDITE AND THE MEN OF UNDERSTANDING (i.e. TRULY EDUCATED)?•DOES MERELY ATTAINING A DEGREE MAKE THE PERSON TO BE REGARDED AS SUCH?• ACCORDING TO ALLAH, AND NOT ACCORDING TO PEOPLE....




43

“Behold! in the creation of the heavens and the earth, and the alternation of Night and Day,― there are indeed Signs for men of understanding.―”

(Qur'an: Aali ‘ Imran: 3: 190)(Qur'an: Aali ‘ Imran: 3: 190)



ALLAH (AZZAA-WA-JALLA) SAYS:ALLAH (AZZAA-WA-JALLA) SAYS:

44

“Men who remembers (celebrate the praises of) Allah standing, sitting, and lying down on their sides, and contemplate the (wonders of) creation in the heavens and the earth...”





45

““... (with the thought): "Our Lord! not for ... (with the thought): "Our Lord! not for naught hast Thou created (all) this! Glory to naught hast Thou created (all) this! Glory to Thee! Give us salvation from the penalty of Thee! Give us salvation from the penalty of the Fire. the Fire. ”





46

"The erudite among His bondmen fear Allah "The erudite among His bondmen fear Allah alone. Lo! Allah is Mighty, Forgiving.“alone. Lo! Allah is Mighty, Forgiving.“

(Qur'an: Fatir: 53: 28)(Qur'an: Fatir: 53: 28)




NEED FOR A NEED FOR A RE-ORIENTATIONRE-ORIENTATION

ON HOW WE LEARNON HOW WE LEARN

47



““have we learnt how to learn?”have we learnt how to learn?”

WHAT QUALIFIES ONE’S LEARNING TO BE AN ‘IBADAH?

• Although Islam places highest premium to seeking Although Islam places highest premium to seeking knowledge over even formal devotion knowledge over even formal devotion ((‘ibadah ‘ibadah khususiyahkhususiyah), yet the way of seeking knowledge ), yet the way of seeking knowledge here, has to comply with certain basic conditions:here, has to comply with certain basic conditions:

[1] INTENTION – ([1] INTENTION – (NiyyatNiyyat))[2] Does not involve things that are [2] Does not involve things that are HaramHaram (forbidden) (forbidden)

or involving or involving ma’siatma’siat (disobedience to Allah). (disobedience to Allah).



• Islamic student even has to observe Adab in Islamic student even has to observe Adab in learning (re: learning (re: Ihya’-ulum-ad-deenIhya’-ulum-ad-deen):):

Purify his soul (nafs) from impure traits and blameworthy characteristics.

Remove impediments (affairs of the world) to devote with undivided attention to the study.




Never scorn knowledge nor exalt Never scorn knowledge nor exalt himself/herself over the teacher.himself/herself over the teacher.

Observe priority in learning and Observe priority in learning and submit to the advise of the teacher in submit to the advise of the teacher in the matters of his learning. the matters of his learning.




Must be patient and not be hasty in learning as one may need to master praiseworthy knowledge as a priority.




Do not attempt to address every Do not attempt to address every branch of knowledge but must branch of knowledge but must observe order and begin with the observe order and begin with the most important.most important.

Learn to ascertain the noble nature of Learn to ascertain the noble nature of this or other science.this or other science.




Purpose of learning is for the Purpose of learning is for the adornment of inner self with virtues – adornment of inner self with virtues – seeking nearness to Allah (“seeking nearness to Allah (“Taqarrub-Taqarrub-illAllahillAllah”) and attainment of piety ”) and attainment of piety (“(“TaqwaTaqwa”).”).

- Refer also to Imam Burhanuddin Zarnuji’s book for students :“Risalah: Ta-’lim muta-’allim tariqa-tut-ta’lim”


DILEMMA ?DILEMMA ?


THE POSSIBLE DILEMMA OF A MUSLIM STUDENT

• From what has been presented, perhaps there may be From what has been presented, perhaps there may be realization that one’s education (from the Islamic realization that one’s education (from the Islamic perspective) needs to also be looked into, now.perspective) needs to also be looked into, now.

• We, as Muslims should like our education to be We, as Muslims should like our education to be wholistic and one that qualify as an wholistic and one that qualify as an ‘‘ibadahibadah..

• Yet, already with a heavy workload, some may regard Yet, already with a heavy workload, some may regard my introducing this element to be daunting and seem my introducing this element to be daunting and seem burdensome (especially when one realizes perhaps, the burdensome (especially when one realizes perhaps, the missing gaps in our knowledge of Islam itself). missing gaps in our knowledge of Islam itself).

• More so, the excuse of lack of time and when one do More so, the excuse of lack of time and when one do not know how to go about surmounting this dilemma.not know how to go about surmounting this dilemma.



A SUGGESTIONA SUGGESTION



A SUGGESTION : WHAT CAN BE DONE ?

• Al-HamdulillahAl-Hamdulillah! May this workshop itself be a timely ! May this workshop itself be a timely beginning to what I had hope for Muslims realize - beginning to what I had hope for Muslims realize - that inculcation of that inculcation of Fardhu ‘Ain Fardhu ‘Ain knowledge is knowledge is throughout a Muslim’s life, and at every stage and throughout a Muslim’s life, and at every stage and level of his/her development.level of his/her development.

• A manageable program and curriculum perhaps A manageable program and curriculum perhaps could be planned throughout your undergraduate could be planned throughout your undergraduate years (stage), supplementing your educational years (stage), supplementing your educational development development vis-a-visvis-a-vis academic on campus. academic on campus.

• Hopefully you refer to those (teacher) who truly Hopefully you refer to those (teacher) who truly know, for advice & guidance (know, for advice & guidance (irshaadahirshaadah).).




• Perhaps fortnightly or monthly discourse on Perhaps fortnightly or monthly discourse on Tasawwur Tasawwur IslamIslam, formation of , formation of halaqahhalaqah & & usroh usroh, selected book , selected book review discussions, etc. could spice your activity on review discussions, etc. could spice your activity on campus.campus.

• But, these should not merely replicate or duplicate classes But, these should not merely replicate or duplicate classes on Islam already available in our community – but on Islam already available in our community – but uniquely it must only be concerned with what constitutes uniquely it must only be concerned with what constitutes Fardhu ‘Ain Fardhu ‘Ain for the Muslim undergraduates.for the Muslim undergraduates.

• My recommendation: Muslim undergraduates to enter My recommendation: Muslim undergraduates to enter and familiarise themselves upon the discourse on and familiarise themselves upon the discourse on “Islamization of Contemporary Knowledge”.“Islamization of Contemporary Knowledge”.




REMEMBER:REMEMBER:• ““There is a vast difference between There is a vast difference between ‘ilm ‘ilm (knowledge) (knowledge)

and and ma’lumatma’lumat (information).” (information).”

• IMAM SHAFI’E IMAM SHAFI’E r.a. r.a. says:says:

:س> م>ا ح>ف>ظ> >ي >ف>ع> ل :م� م>ا ن :ع?ل ال““The knowledge is what benefits, The knowledge is what benefits,

not what is preserved (in books or memory)”not what is preserved (in books or memory)”




REMEMBER:REMEMBER:• And when learning about your religion, And when learning about your religion, Ad-deen-al-Ad-deen-al-

IslamIslam – be reminded by: – be reminded by:

• IMAM MUHAMMAD IBN SIRRIN IMAM MUHAMMAD IBN SIRRIN r.a. r.a. who says:who says:

: خAذAو:ن> >أ وا ع>مbن: ت AرAظ: :ن ف>ان :ع?ل:م د?ي ?نb ه>ذ>ال إAم Aك د?ين

“ “ Verily this is knowledge (contains the rules) of the DEEN Verily this is knowledge (contains the rules) of the DEEN (Religion), so look thoroughly into the person from (Religion), so look thoroughly into the person from whom you acquire (the knowledge of) your Religion.”whom you acquire (the knowledge of) your Religion.”



61

>ا >ن bم:ت ?م>ا ع>ل >ا ب :ف>ع:ن >ا أن bن ب ر>>ا :ف>عAن >ن bذ?ي ي >ا ال aم:ن بa ع>ل ر>

“O our Lord! Make us to benefit from what You have taught us.

O Lord! Teach us whatever that is beneficial for us.”


TASAWWUR ISLAMTASAWWUR ISLAMOUR DU’AOUR DU’A

62

>ا >ن >ه:ل >ا و>ف>قaه: أ بa ف>قaه:ن >ار> >ن >ه:ل >ا و>ف>قaه: أ بa ف>قaه:ن ر>>ه:ل? و>ق> >ا م>ع> أ ?ن :ن >ا ف?ي د?ي >ن >اتf ل اب >ه:ل? ر> >ا م>ع> أ ?ن :ن >ا ف?ي د?ي >ن >اتf ل اب ر>

>ر> :ث> و>ذ>ك Aن :قAط:ر? أ >ر>ال :ث> و>ذ>ك Aن :قAط:ر? أ ال

“O Lord! Grant upon us profound understanding, (as also grant upon) our family members profound understanding.And also to those in the Faith who are close to us, amongst fellow citizens, the female and the male.”



63

ك� د�ن �� ك من ك�ا ك� ب ك� ك� ك�ا ك� ب� ك� ك� ب� م�� ك� ب� ك� ك�ا ك� د�و د� ب� �م �د ك�ا ك�ا �� ك ك د! ك��ا كو ب� ٱ ك# ك$�ن ك� �ن ك م�� % ة'‌ ك( ب* ك

““Our Lord ! Let not our hearts swerve from Our Lord ! Let not our hearts swerve from the truth after You have guided us; and the truth after You have guided us; and bestow upon us the gift of Thy Grace bestow upon us the gift of Thy Grace (Mercy): verily, You are the (true) giver of (Mercy): verily, You are the (true) giver of Gifts (bestowals).” Gifts (bestowals).”



64

ك�ا م� ك� ة' ة ك� ك, ك* م- ك. م/ ك$ا ب� ٱ م1ى ك� ة' ة ك� ك, ك* ك2ا بن د�� ٱ� م1ى ك�ا �م ك�3 اا ك� �� ك ك م ��ا ك ٱ� ك! ك�5 ك6

“Our Lord! Give us good in this world Our Lord! Give us good in this world and good in the Hereafter and save and good in the Hereafter and save us from the torment of the fire!”us from the torment of the fire!”



65

fدbح>مAا م< :د?ن ي bهA ع>ل>ى س> و>ص>ل�ى اللل�م ?ه? و>س> ب ?ه? وص>ح: و> ع>ل>ى آل

“And salutations of Allah and Peace be upon our Leader Muhammad, and upon His household and Companions .”



>ع:ل>م �هA أ >ع:ل>م و>الل �هA أ و>الل>ه ?ل :ح>م:دA ل >ا وال >ه و>أخ?رA د>ع:و>ن ?ل :ح>م:دA ل >ا وال و>أخ?رA د>ع:و>ن

>م?ين :ع>ال ب? ال >م?ينر> :ع>ال ب? ال ر>

Q & ADISCUSSION


67

http://an-naseehah.blogspot.com/http://introductiontotauhid.blogspot.com/http://oyoubelievers.blogspot.com/ http://al-amthaal.blogspot.com/ http://zhulkeflee-archive.blogspot.com/ http://criteriaforaholybook-quran.blogspot.com/ http://with-the-truthful.blogspot.com/ http ://muqaddam-nurul.blogspot.com/

Aه >ات ك >ر> �ه? و>ب ح:م>ةAالل Aم و>ر> :ك >ي AهالسbالمA ع>ل >ات ك >ر> �ه? و>ب ح:م>ةAالل Aم و>ر> :ك >ي السbالمA ع>ل

All welcome to visit my web-blog:All welcome to visit my web-blog:
