Standing before Mirror!

By Athar Mudasir

This world is but a dim mirror, 

You’ve seen its reflection, and it pains you, 

Yet it remains shrouded in mist. 

Patience—let it bloom into vibrance, 

This is but the first milestone of your journey. 

Love, a river of fire, demands you surrender to its flames. 

Only then may it grant you passage. 

Resist complaints, embrace reality, Be humble in acceptance. 

Do not yearn for trifles; Endure for the eternity of your soul. 

A spring in the desert, A cave in the storm, A refuge in the forest, A tender embrace in agony. 

The fountain of eternity lies within you. 

Look beneath the veil, pierce your heart and open the doors within, 

Which have grown anxious and weary. 

Recite the words of God— They will calm you, like a lamb resting before sacrifice. 

This is the death of self, But the birth of immortality. 

A love of God, that bestows the love of the world. 

I am no one—

perhaps a lesson, 

a wandering scent, 

a fleeting ghost. 

I may not even exist but open the eyes within your heart. 

You are a mold of patience. 

Hold on a while longer; The road is destined to converge with its purpose. 

Wait, just a little more. 

I tried but failed, what to do now?

An Islamic Perspective on Failure

By Athar Mudasir 

Failure is a reality of life. No matter how much we plan, strive, and hope, there are times when we fall short. But in Islam, failure is not the end of the road—it is a test, a lesson, and an opportunity for growth. The Quran and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) provide a perspective that transforms failure from a source of despair into a means of spiritual and personal development.

Failure as a Test from Allah

Allah reminds us in the Quran that tests and hardships are part of life:

"And We will surely test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient." (Quran 2:155)

Failure, whether in business, relationships, studies, or personal goals, is one of these tests. It is not a sign of Allah’s displeasure but a means to strengthen our faith, patience, and perseverance. Just as fire purifies gold, trials purify our character and bring us closer to Allah.

The Wisdom Behind Failure

Often, when we fail, we feel discouraged and question why things did not go as planned. However, Islam teaches us that there is divine wisdom behind everything that happens.

"But perhaps you hate a thing and it is good for you, and perhaps you love a thing and it is bad for you. And Allah knows, while you know not." (Quran 2:216)

What may seem like a failure to us could actually be protection from something harmful or a redirection towards something better. We might not see the wisdom immediately, but with time and trust in Allah, we realize that every setback was part of a greater plan.

Prophet Muhammad’s Perseverance

The life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is full of moments that could be perceived as failures. He faced rejection in Makkah, hardship in Ta’if, and betrayal. Yet, he never lost hope. Instead, he remained steadfast in his mission, relying on patience, faith, and continuous effort.

When the people of Ta’if rejected him and threw stones at him, he did not see it as a defeat. Rather, he turned to Allah in supplication, seeking His guidance and mercy. Eventually, Islam spread far and wide, proving that what seemed like failure was only a step toward success.

What to Do After Failing?

1. Turn to Allah – Make du’a (supplication) and seek His help. Allah is the Most Merciful, and He responds to the prayers of those who sincerely call upon Him.

2. Reflect and Learn – Failure is a lesson. Analyze what went wrong, learn from your mistakes, and use that knowledge to improve.

3. Stay Patient and Trust Allah – True success is not in never failing, but in remaining steadfast and trusting Allah’s plan.

4. Keep Trying – The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "The strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer, though there is good in both. Be eager for what benefits you, seek help from Allah, and do not be helpless." (Sahih Muslim)

Conclusion: Failure is a Step Toward Growth

Failure is not a dead end—it is a bridge to success. In Islam, every setback is a means of purification, learning, and drawing closer to Allah. When you try and fail, remember that Allah sees your effort, and He has something better planned for you. Keep striving, keep trusting, and keep moving forward.

"So verily, with the hardship, there is relief. Verily, with the hardship, there is relief." (Quran 94:5-6)

Your failure today might be the foundation of your success tomorrow. Keep faith, for Allah’s wisdom is greater than our understanding.

what is Rizq?

By Athar Mudasir 

Rizq is often understood as wealth, but in the Islamic context, it encompasses all forms of provision. This includes food, clothing, health, knowledge, happiness, and spiritual fulfillment. It is a divine blessing, and Muslims are reminded to always seek it through halal means and to rely on Allah for both their material and spiritual needs.

As per Islamic teachings, Allah has written the sustenance for each of His creations before they are even born. While hard work is essential, trust in Allah’s plan and making dua for rizq allows believers to receive provision in ways beyond their efforts.

The Importance of Making Dua for Rizq

The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) taught his followers to make dua for their needs, including their rizq. Dua is an essential act of worship and a way to seek Allah’s blessings and mercy. It shows reliance on Allah, who is the ultimate Provider, and asking Him for rizq ensures that it comes in a way that is beneficial and full of barakah (blessings).

The Prophet (ﷺ) also said: 

“Whoever would like his rizq (provision) to be abundant and his lifespan to be extended, let him uphold his ties of kinship” [Bukhari, Muslim]. 

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Duas for Rizq from the Quran and Sunnah

1. Dua from Surah Al-Baqarah (2:201)

“Rabbana aatina fiddunya hasanatan wafil akhirati hasanatan waqina adhabannaar.” 

Translation: 

“Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire.” 

2. Dua for Halal Rizq

“Allahumma inni as’aluka min fadlika.” 

Translation: 

“O Allah, I ask for Your favor.” 

This is a short yet powerful dua asking Allah for provision that comes from His grace, ensuring that it is halal and blessed.

3. Dua of Prophet Musa (Quran 28:24)

“Rabbi inni lima anzalta ilayya min khayrin faqir.”

Translation: 

“My Lord, indeed I am, for whatever good You would send down to me, in need.”

This was the dua that Prophet Musa (AS) made when he was in desperate need of sustenance. It is a beautiful and humble request for Allah’s provision, acknowledging His power and mercy.

4. Dua from Hadith for Wealth and Guidance

“Allahumma-ighfir li, warhamni, wa-hdini, wa ‘afini, warzuqni.” 

Translation: 

“O Allah! Forgive me, have mercy on me, guide me, guard me against harm, and provide me with sustenance.” 

This dua encompasses asking for forgiveness, mercy, guidance, protection, and rizq, making it a comprehensive supplication for all aspects of life.

5. Dua for Sustenance with Barakah

“Allahumma inni as’aluka ‘Ilman naafi’an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa ‘amalan mutaqabbalan.” 

Translation: 

“O Allah, I ask You for knowledge that is of benefit, a good provision, and deeds that will be accepted.” 

This dua combines the request for beneficial knowledge, halal sustenance, and good deeds, highlighting the importance of barakah in every aspect of life.

Actions that Increase Rizq

While making dua is essential, certain actions are also recommended in Islam to attract barakah in rizq. Combining these with regular supplications can lead to an increase in sustenance.

1. Upholding Family Ties

As mentioned in the hadith, maintaining good relations with family members (Silat-ur-Rahm) is one of the most effective ways to increase rizq. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) emphasized that being kind and supportive of one’s relatives can lead to abundant sustenance and a longer life.

2. Gratitude (Shukr)

Allah promises in the Quran: “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favor]” (Quran 14:7). 

Being grateful for what you already have, no matter how little, can lead to an increase in blessings. This gratitude can be shown through acts of worship, helping others, and avoiding wastage.

3. Seeking Forgiveness (Istighfar)

Regularly seeking forgiveness (istighfar) is another powerful way to increase rizq. In Surah Nuh (71:10-12), Allah says: “Ask forgiveness of your Lord. Indeed, He is ever a Perpetual Forgiver. He will send [rain from] the sky upon you in continuing showers and give you increase in wealth and children.” 

This shows the strong link between istighfar and an increase in sustenance.

4. Charity (Sadaqah)

Giving in charity is another way to increase rizq. The Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) said: “Charity does not decrease wealth” [Muslim]. 

Giving charity with a sincere heart not only purifies your wealth but also attracts more blessings from Allah.

5. Tawakkul (Trust in Allah)

Trusting in Allah and His plans is crucial when seeking rizq. The Prophet (ﷺ) said: “If you were to rely upon Allah with the reliance He is due, you would be provided for like the birds: they go out hungry in the morning and return full in the evening” [Al-Tirmidhi]. 

Working hard and then placing complete trust in Allah ensures that sustenance will come in unexpected ways.

Conclusion

In Islam, rizq is more than just wealth; it includes all forms of blessings from Allah. By making dua, upholding good family relations, being grateful, and engaging in charitable acts, Muslims can increase their rizq and receive it with barakah. 

Cultural Patience vs. Islamic Patience: A Comparative Analysis

By Athar Mudasir

Patience is a universal virtue, but its meaning and application can differ significantly based on cultural and religious perspectives. In many societies, patience is often understood as passive resignation—enduring difficulties without resistance or initiative. In contrast, Islamic patience (Ṣabr) is an active and dynamic quality that involves endurance, resilience, and a proactive approach to overcoming challenges. This article explores the differences between cultural patience (passive resignation) and Islamic patience (active endurance), highlighting their implications in personal, social, and spiritual contexts.

Cultural Patience: Passive Resignation

In various cultures, patience is often associated with passive endurance—accepting hardships, oppression, or difficulties without resistance. This form of patience manifests in different ways:

1. Fatalistic Acceptance: Some cultures promote the idea that suffering is inevitable and that individuals should accept their fate without attempting to change their circumstances.

2. Avoidance of Confrontation: Many societies emphasize avoiding conflict, even at the cost of personal dignity or justice. People are encouraged to "wait and hope" rather than take action.

3. Social Conformity: In some communities, patience is used as a tool for maintaining the status quo. Individuals are discouraged from questioning authority or seeking justice under the pretense of being “patient.”

4. Emotional Suppression: People may be advised to suppress their emotions and grievances, leading to internal distress rather than constructive resolution.

While cultural patience may prevent unnecessary conflicts, it can also lead to stagnation, injustice, and the suppression of rightful struggles for change.

Islamic Patience: Active Endurance and Resilience

In contrast, Islamic patience (Ṣabr) is not about passive suffering but about active resilience, perseverance, and reliance on Allah. Islam teaches that patience is a means of spiritual growth and worldly success, requiring a balance between endurance and action.

1. Patience in Worship (Ṣabr ‘ala Ṭā‘ah): This involves maintaining consistency in prayers, fasting, and acts of worship, even when facing difficulties. It is an active commitment to faith.

2. Patience in Avoiding Sin (Ṣabr ‘an al-Ma‘ṣiyah): True patience means resisting temptations and staying steadfast in righteousness, even when sinful actions appear easy or tempting.

3. Patience in Hardship (Ṣabr ‘ala al-Balā’): Islam does not promote passive suffering but encourages believers to seek solutions, make efforts, and trust in Allah's wisdom. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) exemplified this in his struggles against oppression while remaining steadfast in his mission.

4. Seeking Justice with Patience: The Qur’an emphasizes that patience should not mean tolerating injustice. Instead, it encourages standing up for truth while enduring hardships with faith.

The Prophet (PBUH) and his companions faced extreme persecution in Makkah but did not passively resign to their fate. They endured suffering with faith, strategy, and perseverance, ultimately leading to the victory of Islam in Madinah.

Conclusion

While cultural patience often leads to passive resignation and acceptance of unfavorable circumstances, Islamic patience promotes active endurance, resilience, and faith-driven action. True Islamic patience is about striving for positive change while trusting in Allah’s wisdom and justice. It is a dynamic force that empowers individuals to endure hardships, seek justice, and remain steadfast in their faith.

Ultimately, the choice between cultural and Islamic patience shapes how individuals and societies respond to challenges. Islam encourages believers to be patient yet proactive, enduring yet resilient, and hopeful yet persistent in all aspects of life.

Trauma and social cohesion

By Athar Mudasir 

Trauma a deeply distressing or disturbing experience that lasts for ages and generations with an immersive impact on a person's mental, emotional, and physical well-being. 

Its tenticals are spread to varied aspects of life and deeply impacts ones reactive and decision making. In such situations a Nobel person becomes volatile before the people and suffers lonilness, estrangement and annihilation from loved and associated people. 

The incident or set of events forming experiences brings a person to crunch in a narrow and conceited life style and thinking. Thus marking its enslavement with limited role in family and society. 

The problem now arise is it transfer it's state of exhaustion and mental structure to its decidents. The future gets stuck in past and present becomes stagnant. This condition at mass level is mouthwatering for the patriarchal social cohesion and political enclave to thrive on decayed mental corpse.

.....

Oh blessed one: A Prophet's Journey

By Athar Mudasir 

The heavens danced on your arrival.

Birds viped elephants.

Palaces shock and crack.

A radiant light descends in the middle of earth.

Thy presence brought abundance wherever it resided.

A revelation, a message divine,

Arrived on his shoulders,

From the heavens above, a celestial sign.

With courage and faith, he spread the decree,

Undeterred by trials, steadfast and free.

In Mecca’s heart, a city carving stones,  

Muhammad was born, the final prophet known.  

A merchant of truth, with a heart pure and bright,  

Guiding the lost from darkness to light.

To Medina he traveled, the city of peace,  

Where Islam would flourish, its blessings increase.  

A community united, believers as one,  

Building a nation, where justice would be done.

A battle of faith, a test of their will,

At Badr they triumphed, their spirits to fill.

A victory for Islam, a sign from above,

Strengthening their belief and their unwavering love.

A journey to Jerusalem, a vision profound,  

A meeting with prophets from all lands around.  

A celestial ascent, a testament to his might,  

A beacon of hope, illuminating the night.

A life well-lived, a legacy fully told,

The prophet of Islam, a story to uphold.

His teachings, a guide for all time,

Inspiring the faithful, a beacon divine.

The Perils of Overconfidence: From Excitement to Delusion and Myth

BY ATHAR MUDASIR

Overconfidence, often fueled by excessive excitement, can be a double-edged sword. While it can drive innovation and achievement, it can also lead to a slippery slope towards delusion and myth. When unchecked, these delusions can pave the way for misguided decisions and actions, ultimately leading to wrong paths.

The Path to Delusion

Overconfidence can blind us to the potential pitfalls and limitations of our plans. When we become overly excited about an idea or project, we may downplay risks, ignore dissenting opinions, and overestimate our abilities. This can create a distorted view of reality, leading to delusions about our chances of success.

For example, a startup founder may become so convinced of their revolutionary product that they fail to recognize the competitive landscape or the challenges of scaling the business. Similarly, a political leader might believe so strongly in their ideology that they disregard the concerns of their constituents and pursue policies that are ultimately harmful.

The Birth of Myth

Delusions can often give rise to myths, which are exaggerated or false stories that are widely believed. These myths can be perpetuated through word of mouth, media, or even religious or cultural traditions. Once a myth takes hold, it can be difficult to dispel, even in the face of overwhelming evidence to the contrary.

The history of human civilization is littered with examples of myths that have had profound and lasting consequences. The belief in a flat Earth, for instance, hindered exploration and scientific progress for centuries. Similarly, the myth of racial superiority has fueled discrimination, violence, and oppression.

The Wrong Path

Delusions and myths can lead to misguided decisions and actions that have negative consequences. For example, a company that believes it is invincible may make reckless investments or engage in unethical practices. A government that is misled by false information may pursue policies that harm its citizens or destabilise the region.

Moreover, delusions and myths can create a self-fulfilling prophecy. If people believe that something is inevitable or impossible, they may behave in ways that make it more likely to come true. For example, a fear of economic collapse can lead to panic buying and hoarding, which can actually trigger a recession.

In conclusion, overconfidence can be a powerful force, but it must be tempered with a healthy dose of scepticism and critical thinking. By recognizing the dangers of delusion and myth, we can avoid making costly mistakes and stay on the right path.