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    Life of Abu Bakkar Siddique (RA)
    Life of Abu Bakkar Siddique (RA)
    Life of Abu Bakkar Siddique (RA)
    Ebook790 pages9 hours

    Life of Abu Bakkar Siddique (RA)

    By ShaykhPod Books

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    About this ebook

    The following book will discuss an important aspect of Noble Character namely, a Balanced Life.

     

    According to the Hadith found in Jami At Tirmidhi, number 2003, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, has advised that the heaviest thing in the Scales of Judgment Day will be Noble Character. It is one of qualities of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, which Allah, the Exalted, complimented in Chapter 68 Al Qalam, Verse 4 of the Holy Quran:

     

    "And indeed, you are of a great moral character."

     

    Therefore, it is a duty on all Muslims to gain and act on the teachings of the Holy Quran and the traditions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, in order to Achieve Noble Character.

    LanguageEnglish
    PublisherShaykhPod Books
    Release dateAug 2, 2021
    ISBN9798201876685

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      Life of Abu Bakkar Siddique (RA) - ShaykhPod Books

      Acknowledgements

      ––––––––

      All praises are for Allah, the Exalted, Lord of the worlds, who has given us the inspiration, opportunity and strength to complete this volume. Blessings and peace be upon the Holy Prophet Muhammad whose path has been chosen by Allah, the Exalted, for the salvation of mankind.

      ––––––––

      We would like to express our deepest appreciation to the entire ShaykhPod family, especially our little star, Yusuf, whose continued support and advice has inspired the development of ShaykhPod Books.

      ––––––––

      We pray that Allah, the Exalted, completes His favour on us and accepts each letter of this book in His august court and allows it to testify on our behalf on the Last Day.

      ––––––––

      All praise to Allah, the Exalted, Lord of the worlds and endless blessings and peace by upon the Holy Prophet Muhammad, on his blessed Household and Companions, may Allah be pleased with them all.

      Compiler’s Notes

      ––––––––

      We have tried diligently to do justice in this volume however if there are any short falls found then the compiler is personally and solely responsible for them.

      ––––––––

      We accept the possibility of faults and shortcomings in an effort to complete such a difficult task. We might have unconsciously stumbled and committed errors for which we ask for indulgence and forgiveness of our readers and the drawing of our attention thereto will be appreciated. We earnestly invite constructive suggestions which can be made to [email protected].

      Introduction

      ––––––––

      The following short book discusses some lessons from the Life of the Great Companion of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, the First Rightly Guided Caliph of Islam, Abu Bakkar Siddique, may Allah be pleased with him.

      ––––––––

      Implementing the lessons discussed will aid a Muslim to Achieve Noble Character. According to the Hadith found in Jami At Tirmidhi, number 2003, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, has advised that the heaviest thing in the Scales of Judgment Day will be Noble Character. It is one of the qualities of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, which Allah, the Exalted, complimented in Chapter 68 Al Qalam, Verse 4 of the Holy Quran:

      ––––––––

      And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

      ––––––––

      Therefore, it is a duty on all Muslims to gain and act on the teachings of the Holy Quran and the traditions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, in order to Achieve Noble Character.

      Life of Abu Bakkar Siddique (RA)

      Life in Mecca Before Accepting Islam

      An Honest Businessman

      ––––––––

      During the pre-Islamic days, Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, was a successful merchant who would undertake regular business trips abroad. He had a reputation for fairness and generosity in his business dealings. Other merchants would be eager to trade with him as he never cheated anyone. This has been discussed in Imam Muhammad As Sallaabee’s, The Biography of Abu Bakr As Siddeeq, Page 43.

      ––––––––

      In a Hadith found in Sunan Ibn Majah, number 2146, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, warned that merchants will be raised as immoral people on Judgment Day except those who fear Allah, the Exalted, act righteously and speak the truth.

      ––––––––

      This Hadith applies to all those who take part in business transactions. It is extremely important to fear Allah, the Exalted, by fulfilling His commands, refraining from His prohibitions and facing destiny with patience. This includes treating others kindly according to the teachings of Islam. In respect to business dealings a muslim should be honest in their speech by disclosing all the details of the transaction to all who are involved. A Hadith found in Sahih Bukhari, number 2079, warns that when muslims hide things in financial transactions, such as defects in their goods, it will lead to a loss in blessings.

      ––––––––

      Acting righteously includes not striving to con others by making them pay excessively for goods. A muslim should simply treat others how they desire to be treated meaning, with honesty and full disclosure. The same way, a muslim would not like to be mistreated in financial matters they should not mistreat others.

      ––––––––

      Those conducting business should always avoid lying as it leads to immorality and immortality leads to Hell. In fact, a person will keep telling and acting on lies until they are recorded as a great liar by Allah, the Exalted. This has been warned in a Hadith found in Jami At Tirmidhi, number 1971.

      Fine Character

      ––––––––

      Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, was universally loved by the people of Mecca. The noblemen loved him as he possessed the characteristics which increased their honour among the Arabs. The learned loved him as he was a very well-educated person. The traders loved him as he was a fair and just merchant. The poor loved him as he was always generous to them. This has been discussed in Imam Muhammad As Sallaabee’s, The Biography of Abu Bakr As Siddeeq, Page 44.

      ––––––––

      The root of this aspect of his character was sincerity to others.

      ––––––––

      In a Hadith found in Sahih Muslim number 196, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, advised that Islam is sincerity towards to the general public. This includes desiring the best for them at all times and showing this through one’s words and actions. It includes advising others to do good, forbidding them from evil, to be merciful and kind to others at all times. This can be summed up by a single Hadith found in Sahih Muslim, number 170. It warns that one cannot be a true believer until they love for others what they desire for themself.

      ––––––––

      Being sincere to people is so important that according to the Hadith found in Sahih Bukhari, number 57, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, placed this duty next to establishing the obligatory prayer and donating the obligatory charity. From this Hadith alone one can understand its importance as it has been placed with two vital obligatory duties.

      ––––––––

      It is a part of sincerity towards people that one is pleased when they are happy and sad whenever they are grieved as long as their attitude does not contradict the teachings of Islam. A high level of sincerity includes one going to extreme limits to make the lives of others better, even if this puts themself in difficulty. For example, one may sacrifice purchasing certain things in order to donate the wealth to the needy. Desiring and striving to always unite people on good is a part of sincerity towards others. Whereas, dividing others is a characteristic of the Devil. Chapter 17 Al Isra, verse 53:

      ––––––––

      ...Satan certainly seeks to sow discord among them...

      ––––––––

      One way of uniting people is to veil the faults of others and advise them privately against sins. The one who acts in this way will have their sins veiled by Allah, the Exalted. This is confirmed in a Hadith found in Jami At Tirmidhi, number 1426. Whenever possible one should advise and teach the aspects of religion and the important aspects of the world to others so that both their worldly and religious lives improve. A proof of one’s sincerity to others is that they support them in their absence for example, from the slander of others. Turning away from others and only worrying about oneself is not the attitude of a muslim. In fact, this is how most animals behave. Even if one cannot change the whole society they can still be sincere in helping those in their life, such as their relatives and friends. Simply put, one must treat others how they desire people to treat them. Chapter 28 Al Qasas, verse 77:

      ––––––––

      ...And do good as Allah has done good to you...

      Intelligence

      ––––––––

      During the pre-Islamic days, Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, never drank alcohol. When questioned about that he replied that he always desired to protect his honour and guard his manliness and drinking alcohol removed both of these things. This has been discussed in Imam Suyuti’s, Tarikh Al Khulafa, Pages 7-8.

      ––––––––

      In a Hadith found in Sunan Ibn Majah number 3371, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, warned that a muslim must never consume alcohol as it is the key to all evil.

      ––––––––

      Unfortunately, this major sin has increased amongst the muslims over time. This is the key to all evil as it gives rise to other sins. This is quite obvious as a drunk loses control over their tongue and physical actions. One only needs to look at the news to observe how much crime is committed due to drinking alcohol. Even those who drink moderately only cause damage to their bodies, which science has proven. The physical and mental diseases associated with alcohol are numerous and cause a heavy burden on the National Health Service and the tax payers. It is the key to all evil as it negatively affects all three aspects of a person namely, their body, mind and soul. Chapter 5 Al Ma’idah, verse 90:

      ––––––––

      O you who have believed, indeed, intoxicants, gambling, [sacrificing on] stone alters [to other than Allah], and divining arrows are but defilement from the work of Satan, so avoid it that you may be successful.

      ––––––––

      The fact that drinking alcohol has been placed next to things which are associated with polytheism in this verse highlights how important it is to avoid.

      ––––––––

      It is such a serious sin that the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, warned in a Hadith found in Sunan Ibn Majah, number 3376, that the one who drinks alcohol regularly will not enter Paradise.

      ––––––––

      Spreading the Islamic greeting of peace is a key to obtaining Paradise according to a Hadith found in Sunan Ibn Majah, number 68. Yet, a Hadith found in Imam Bukhari's, Adab Al Mufrad, number 1017, advises muslims not to greet someone who regularly drinks alcohol.

      ––––––––

      Alcohol is a unique major sin as it has been cursed from ten different ways in a single Hadith found in Sunan Ibn Majah, number 3380. These include the alcohol itself, the one who produces it, the one it is produced for, the one who sells it, the one who buys it, the one who carries it, the one to whom it is carried to, the one who uses the wealth obtained through selling it, the one who drinks it and the one who pours it. The one who deals with something that has been cursed like this will not obtain true success unless they sincerely repent.

      Avoiding Vain Things

      ––––––––

      During the pre-Islamic days, Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, never composed poetry, something which was widely done by the Arabs of that time. This has been discussed in Imam Suyuti’s, Tarikh Al Khulafa, Page 7.

      ––––––––

      Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, disliked vain speech and therefore abstained from composing poetry.

      ––––––––

      In a Hadith found in Jami At Tirmidhi, number 2501, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, declared that whoever is silent is saved.

      ––––––––

      This means the one who is silent from vain or evil speech and only speaks good words will be saved by Allah, the Exalted, in both worlds. This is important to understand as the main reason people will enter Hell is because of their speech. This has been warned in a Hadith found in Jami At Tirmidhi, number 2616. In fact, it only takes a single evil word to cause a person to plunge into Hell on Judgement Day which has been confirmed in a Hadith found in Jami At Tirmidhi, number 2314.

      ––––––––

      Speech can be of three types. The first is evil speech which should be avoided at all costs. The second is vain speech which only causes one to waste time which will lead to a great regret on Judgment Day. In addition, the first step of sinful speech is often vain speech. So it is safer to avoid this type of speech. The final type is good speech which should always be adopted. Based on these aspects two thirds of speech should be removed from one's life.

      ––––––––

      In addition, the one who speaks too much will only reflect on their actions and the hereafter a little as this requires silence. This will prevent one from assessing their deeds which inspires one to perform more righteous deeds and sincerely repent from their sins. This person will then be prevented from changing for the better.

      ––––––––

      Finally, those who speak too much often discuss worldly things and things which are entertaining and fun. This will cause them to adopt a mentality whereby they dislike discussing or listening to serious issues like death and the hereafter. This will prevent them from preparing adequately for the hereafter which will lead to a great regret and a potential punishment.

      ––––––––

      All of this can be avoided if one simply remains silent from sinful and vain speech and instead only speaks good words. Therefore, the one who is silent in this way will be saved from trouble in this world and from punishment in the next world.

      Avoiding Blind Imitation

      ––––––––

      Even prior to the advent of Islam, Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, never prostrated to or worshipped an idol. Even as a child he applied his common sense when told that the idols in Mecca were his Gods. He once requested the lifeless idols to provide him with food and clothing. When they did not reply it became obvious they could not obtain anything for themselves let alone grant someone else something. He even once threw a stone at an idol and observed how it could not protect itself, let alone protect someone else. This has been discussed in Imam Muhammad As Sallaabee’s, The Biography of Abu Bakr As Siddeeq, Pages 45-46.

      ––––––––

      Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, used his common sense and did not blindly follow the people around him in worshipping lifeless idols.

      ––––––––

      Blind imitation of one’s forefathers is a major reason why people reject the truth, such as Judgement Day. A person should utilize their common sense and choose a way of life based on evidence and clear signs and not blindly imitate others like cattle. Behaving in this manner leads to deviation.

      ––––––––

      Muslims should not follow and adopt the customary practices of non-Muslims. The more Muslims do this the less they will follow the teachings of the Holy Quran and the traditions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. This is quite evident in this day and age as many Muslims have adopted the cultural practices of other nations which has caused them to become distant from the teachings of Islam. For example, one only needs to observe the modern Muslim wedding to observe how many non-Muslim cultural practices have been adopted by Muslims. What makes this worse is that many Muslims cannot differentiate between Islamic practices based on the Holy Quran and traditions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, and the cultural practices of non-Muslims. Because of this non-Muslims cannot differentiate between them either which has caused great problems for Islam. For example, honour killings is a cultural practice which has nothing to do with Islam yet because of the ignorance of Muslims and their habit of adopting non-Muslim cultural practices Islam is blamed every time an honour killing occurs in society. The Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, removed the social barriers in the form of casts and brotherhoods in order to unite people yet ignorant Muslims have resurrected them by adopting the cultural practices of non-Muslims. Simply put, the more cultural practices Muslims adopt the less they will act on the Holy Quran and the traditions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him.

      ––––––––

      Blind imitation is even disliked within Islam.

      ––––––––

      A Hadith found in Sunan Ibn Majah, number 4049, indicates the importance of not blindly imitating others in accepting Islam, such as one's family, without gaining and acting on Islamic knowledge so that one surpasses blind imitation and obeys Allah, the Exalted, while truly recognising his Lordship and their own servanthood. This is in fact the purpose of mankind. Chapter 51 Adh Dhariyat, verse 56:

      ––––––––

      And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.

      ––––––––

      How can one truly worship someone they do not even recognize? Blind imitation is acceptable for children but adults must follow in the footsteps of the righteous predecessors by truly understanding the purpose of their creation through knowledge. Ignorance is the very reason why the Muslims who fulfil their obligatory duties still feel disconnected from Allah, the Exalted. This recognition aids a Muslim to behave as a true servant of Allah, the Exalted, throughout the day not just during the five daily obligatory prayers. Only through this will Muslims fulfil true servanthood to Allah, the Exalted. And this is the weapon which overcomes all difficulties a Muslim faces during their life. If they do not possess this they will face difficulties without gaining reward. In fact, it will only lead to more difficulties in both worlds. Performing the obligatory duties through blind imitation may fulfil the obligation but it will not safely guide one through every difficulty in order to reach the proximity of Allah, the Exalted, in both worlds. In fact, in most cases blind imitation will lead to one eventually abandoning their obligatory duties. This Muslim will only fulfil their duties in times of difficulty and turn away from them in times of ease or vice versa.

      Worshipping Desires

      ––––––––

      Even prior to the advent of Islam, Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, never prostrated to or worshipped an idol. Even as a child he applied his common sense when told that the idols in Mecca were his Gods. He once requested the lifeless idols to provide him with food and clothing. When they did not reply it became obvious they could not obtain anything for themselves let alone grant someone else something. He even once threw a stone at an idol and observed how it could not protect itself, let alone protect someone else. This has been discussed in Imam Muhammad As Sallaabee’s, The Biography of Abu Bakr As Siddeeq, Pages 45-46.

      ––––––––

      The truth is that each worshipper of false gods only worships their own desires. Their deities are just a physical manifestation of their desires which they worship. This is obvious as a person who worships a deity in the form of an idol knows that the lifeless idol cannot command them to live their life a certain way so the worshiper themself decides how they imagine their lifeless idol would like them to live. And this code of conduct is based on nothing but their own desires. Therefore, their worship of their desires is the root of their worship. The influential and rich are more drowned in this mentality as they are aware that accepting the truth meaning, Islam, will force them to live according to a specific code of conduct which will prevent them from acting on their misguided desires. They advise others to follow them as they do not wish to lose their influence and authority. This is why history as shown they were the first to reject and oppose the Holy Prophets, peace be upon them.

      ––––––––

      Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, rejected worshipping his desires meaning, worshipping idols, and instead held himself to a higher moral standard.

      ––––––––

      First of all, it is important to understand, that the major thing which separates a human from an animal is the fact that people live by a higher moral code. If people abandoned this and simply acted on their desires then they would be no difference between them and animals. In fact, people would be worse as they possess the higher level of thinking yet, still choose to live like animals.

      ––––––––

      Secondly, whether people want to admit it or not in reality, every person is a servant of something or someone. Some are servants of others, such as Hollywood executives and do whatever they command them to do even if it challenges modesty and shame. Others are servants of their relatives and friends and do whatever it takes to please them. Others are the worse by being servants of their own desires as this is the attitude of animals who generally act to please themself. The best and highest form of servanthood is being a servant of Allah, the Exalted. This is quite evident if one turns the pages of history which clearly shows that those who were the servants of Allah, the Exalted, such as the Holy Prophets, peace be upon them, were granted the highest honour and respect in this world and will be granted this in the next. Centuries and millennia have passed yet their names are remembered as the pillars and beacons of history. Whereas those who became servants of others especially, their own desires were eventually disgraced in this world even if they achieved some worldly status and they became mere footnotes in history. The media barely remembers those who pass away for more than a few days before moving onto the next person to report on. During their lives these people eventually become sad, lonely, depressed and even suicidal as selling their souls and decency to their worldly masters did not grant them the contentment they were looking for. One does not need to be a scholar to understand this obvious truth. So if people must be servants they should be the servants of Allah, the Exalted, as lasting honour, greatness and true success lies only in this.

      Avoiding Oppression

      ––––––––

      Prior to the advent of Islam, Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, had a keen interest in religious teachings and often had discussions with religious scholars from different religions. His interest showed a genuine desire to seek the truth and the purpose of his creation. For example, he once discussed with Waraqah Ibn Naufal, an expert in the Torah and Bible, about the concept of Prophethood. Waraqah told him that a Holy Prophet, peace be upon them, speaks what is revealed to him. He does not commit oppression, he does not help others in committing oppression and he does not tolerate oppression. This research was one of the reasons why he readily accepted the call of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. This has been discussed in Imam Muhammad As Sallaabee’s, The Biography of Abu Bakr As Siddeeq, Pages 49-50.

      ––––––––

      Generally speaking, just like Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, adopted the characteristics of a Holy Prophet, peace be upon them, described above, so should a muslim, as oppression leads to darkness in both worlds.

      ––––––––

      In a Hadith found in Sahih Bukhari, number 2447, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, warned that oppression will become a darkness on the Day of Judgment.

      ––––––––

      This is vital to avoid as those who find themselves plunged in darkness are unlikely to find their way to Paradise. Only those who will be provided a guiding light will be able to do this successfully.

      ––––––––

      Oppression can take many forms. The first type is when one fails to fulfill the commands of Allah, the Exalted, and refrain from His prohibitions. Even though this has no effect on the infinite status of Allah, the Exalted, it will cause the person to become submerged into darkness in both worlds. According to a Hadith found in Sunan Ibn Majah, number 4244, whenever a person commits a sin a black spot is etched on their spiritual heart. The more they sin the more their heart will become encompassed by darkness. This will prevent them from accepting and following true guidance in this world which will ultimately lead to darkness in the next world. Chapter 83 Al Mutaffifin, verse 14:

      ––––––––

      No! Rather, the stain has covered their hearts of that which they were earning.

      ––––––––

      The next type of oppression is when one oppresses themself by not fulfilling the trust they have been granted by Allah, the Exalted, in the form of their body and other worldly blessings they possess. The greatest of which is one's faith. This must be protected and strengthened through gaining and acting on Islamic knowledge.

      ––––––––

      The final type of oppression is when one mistreats others. Allah, the Exalted, will not forgive these sins until the oppressor’s victim forgives them first. As people are not so merciful this is unlikely to happen. Then justice will be established on Judgment Day where the oppressor’s righteous deeds will be given to their victim and if necessary the victim’s sins will be given to the oppressor. This may lead to the oppressor being hurled into Hell. This has been warned in a Hadith found in Sahih Muslim, number 6579. One should therefore treat others how they wish to be treated by people. A muslim should avoid all forms of oppression if they desire a guiding light in this world and in the next.

      Searching for the Truth

      ––––––––

      Prior to the advent of Islam, Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, had a keen interest in religious teachings and often had discussions with religious scholars from different religions. His interest showed a genuine desire to seek the truth and the purpose of his creation. For example, he once discussed with Waraqah Ibn Naufal, an expert in the Torah and Bible, about the concept of Prophethood. Waraqah told him that a Holy Prophet, peace be upon them, speaks what is revealed to him. He does not commit oppression, he does not help others in committing oppression and he does not tolerate oppression. This research was one of the reasons why he readily accepted the call of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. This has been discussed in Imam Muhammad As Sallaabee’s, The Biography of Abu Bakr As Siddeeq, Pages 49-50.

      ––––––––

      A muslim must follow in the footsteps of Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, by actively seeking and acting on knowledge as it leads to certainty of faith, just like the certainty Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, possessed when he readily accepted Islam at the call of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him.

      ––––––––

      All muslims have faith in Islam but the strength of their faith varies from person to person. For example, the one who follows the teachings of Islam because their family told them to is not the same as the one who believes in it through evidence. A person who has heard about something will not believe in it in the same way as the one who has witnessed the thing with their own eyes.

      ––––––––

      As confirmed in a Hadith found in Sunan Ibn Majah, number 224, gaining useful knowledge is a duty on all muslims. One of the reasons for this is that it is the best way a muslim can strengthen their faith in Islam. This is important to pursue as the stronger one’s certainty of faith the greater the chance they will remain steadfast on the correct path, especially when facing difficulties. In addition, having certainty of faith has been described as one of the best things one can possess in a Hadith found in Sunan Ibn Majah, number 3849.  This knowledge should be obtained by studying the Holy Quran and the Hadith of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, through a reliable source.

      ––––––––

      Allah, the Exalted, did not only declare a truth in the Holy Quran but He also provided evidence for it through examples. Not only examples which are to be found in the past nations but examples which have been placed in one's very own life. For example, in the Holy Quran Allah, the Exalted, advises that sometimes a person loves a thing even though it will cause them trouble if they obtained it. Similarly, they might hate a thing while there is much hidden good in it for them. Chapter 2 Al Baqarah, verse 216:

      ––––––––

      ...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.

      ––––––––

      There are many examples of this truth in history such as the Pact of Hudaiba. Some muslims believed this pact, which was made with the non-muslims of Mecca, would completely favour the latter group. Yet, history clearly shows that it favoured Islam and the muslims. This event is discussed in the Hadiths found in Sahih Bukhari, numbers 2731 and 2732.

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      If one reflects on their own life they will find many examples when they believed something was good when it was actually bad for them and vice versa. These examples prove the authenticity of this verse and help one's faith strengthen.

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      Another example is found in chapter 79 An Naziat, verse 46:

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      It will be, on the Day they see it (Judgement Day) as though they had not remained [in the world] except for an afternoon or a morning thereof.

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      If one turns the pages of history they will clearly observe how great empires came and went. But when they left they passed away in such a way as if they were only on Earth for a moment. All but a few of their signs have faded away as if they were never present on Earth in the first place. Similarly, when one reflects on their own life they will realise that no matter how old they are and no matter how slow certain days might have felt overall their life so far has passed in a flash. Understanding the truthfulness of this verse strengthens one's certainty of faith and this inspires them to prepare for the hereafter before their time runs out.

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      The Holy Quran and the Hadith of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, are full of such examples. Therefore, one should strive to learn and act on these divine teachings so that they adopt certainty of faith. The one who achieves this will not be shaken by any difficulty they face and will remain steadfast on the path which leads to the gates of Paradise. Chapter 41 Fussilat, verse 53:

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      We will show them Our signs in the horizons and within themselves until it becomes clear to them that it is the truth...

      Accepting the Truth

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      It is widely known that Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, accepted the call of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, to Islam without hesitation, whereas all other men showed different degrees of hesitation. This has been discussed in Imam Muhammad As Sallaabee’s, The Biography of Abu Bakr As Siddeeq, Page 51, and indicated in a Hadith found in Sahih Bukhari, number 3661.

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      One of the reasons he readily accepted the truth is that he was a man of truth. Meaning, prior to Islam he searched for, accepted and adopted the characteristics of truthfulness. Therefore, when the truth of Islam was presented to him, he accepted it without hesitation.

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      Muslims must strive to emulate him by adopting truthfulness in all aspects of their lives.

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      In a Hadith found in Jami At Tirmidhi, number 1971, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, discussed the importance of truthfulness and avoiding lies. The first part advises that truthfulness leads to righteousness which in turn leads to Paradise. When a person persists on truthfulness they are recorded by Allah, the Exalted, as a truthful person.

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      It is important to note, that truthfulness as three levels. The first is when one is truthful in their intention and sincerity. Meaning, they act only for the sake of Allah, the Exalted, and do not benefit others for an ulterior motive, such as fame. This in fact is the foundation of Islam as every action is judged on one's intention. This is confirmed in a Hadith found in Sahih Bukhari, number 1. The next level is when one is truthful through their words. This in reality means they avoid all types of verbal sins not just lies. As the one who indulges in other verbal sins cannot be a real truthful person. An excellent way of achieving this is by acting on a Hadith found in Jami At Tirmidhi, number 2317, which advises that a person can only make their Islam excellent when they avoid getting involved in the things which do not concern them. The majority of verbal sins occur because a muslim discusses something which does not concern them. The final stage is truthfulness in actions. This is achieved through the sincere obedience of Allah, the Exalted, by fulfilling His commands, refraining from His prohibitions and being patient with destiny according to the traditions of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, without cheery picking or misinterpreting the teachings of Islam which suit one's desires. They must adhere to hierarchy and priority order set by Allah, the Exalted, in all actions.

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      The consequences of the opposite of these levels of truthfulness namely, lying, according to the main Hadith under discussion, is that it leads to disobedience which in turn leads to the fire of Hell. When one persists on this attitude they will be recorded as a great liar by Allah, the Exalted.

      Good Companionship

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      It is widely known that Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, accepted the call of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, to Islam without hesitation, whereas all other men showed different degrees of hesitation. This has been discussed in Imam Muhammad As Sallaabee’s, The Biography of Abu Bakr As Siddeeq, Page 51, and indicated in a Hadith found in Sahih Bukhari, number 3661.

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      One of the reasons Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, readily accepted the truth of Islam is because he already had a deep bond of friendship with the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. Therefore, Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, witnessed the truth of Islam through knowing the flawless character of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, prior to his call to Islam. Even though, the non-muslims of Mecca observed the same thing yet they stubbornly rejected Islam.

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      The fact that the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, spent his entire life amongst the non-Muslims of Mecca was enough of a proof of his declaration of Prophethood. When the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, invited the non-Muslims of Mecca to embrace Islam he used his 40 years amongst them as proof that he was speaking the truth. This evidence was undeniable even by the non-Muslims. This incident is recorded in a Hadith found in Sahih Bukhari, number 4553. Only the arrogance of some prevented them from submitting to the truth. Chapter 10 Yunus, verse 16:

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      ...for I had remained among you a lifetime before it. Then will you not reason?

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      The deep friendship between the two indicates the importance of good companionship.

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      In a Hadith found in Sahih Bukhari, number 5534, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, described the difference between a good and bad companion. The good companion is like a person who sells perfume. Their companion will either obtain some perfume or at least be affected by the pleasant smell. Whereas, a bad companion is like a blacksmith, if their companion does not burn their clothes they will certainly be affected by the smoke.

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      Muslims must understand that the people they accompany will have an effect on them whether this affect is positive or negative, obvious or subtle. It is not possible to accompany someone and not be affected by it. A Hadith found in Sunan Abu Dawud, number 4833, confirms that a person is on their companion’s religion. Meaning, a person adopts the characteristics of their companion. It is therefore important for muslims to always accompany the righteous as they will undoubtedly affect them in a positive way meaning, they will inspire them to obey Allah, the Exalted, by fulfilling His commands, refraining from His prohibitions and by facing destiny with patience. Whereas, bad companions will either inspire one to disobey Allah, the Exalted, or they will encourage a muslim to concentrate on the material world over preparing for the hereafter. This attitude will become a great regret for them on Judgment Day even if the things they strive for are lawful but beyond their needs.

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      Finally, as a person will end up with those they love in the hereafter according to the Hadith found in Sahih Bukhari, number 3688, a muslim must practically show they love for the righteous by accompanying them in this world. But if they accompany bad or heedless people then it proves and indicates they love for them and their ultimate destination in the hereafter. Chapter 43 Az Zukhruf, verse 67:

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      Close friends, that Day, will be enemies to each other, except for the righteous.

      Life in Mecca After Accepting Islam

      Guiding Others to Faith

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      After accepting Islam, Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, busied himself in inviting others towards the truth. Due to his efforts many people accepted Islam. These people went on to become the prominent and senior Companions, may Allah be pleased with them, of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. These people included: Az Zubair Ibn Al Awwaam, Uthman Ibn Affan, Talhah Ibn Ubaidullah, Sa’d Ibn Abi Waqqass, Abu Ubaidah Ibn Jarrah, Abdur Rahman ibn Auf, and many more, may Allah be pleased with all of them. This has been discussed in Imam Muhammad As Sallaabee’s, The Biography of Abu Bakr As Siddeeq, Page 55.

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      One of the ways Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, achieved this great deed is through leading by example. When the others observed the signs of Islam in his character and actions, instead of only on his tongue, it encouraged them to accept the truth.

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      It is important for all Muslims, especially parents, to act on what they advise to others. It is obvious if one turns the pages of history that those who acted on what they preached had a much more positive effect on others compared to those who did not lead by example. The best example being the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, who not only practiced what he preached but adhered to those teachings more strictly than anyone else. Only with this attitude will Muslims especially, parents have a positive impact on others. For example, if a mother warns her children not to lie as it is a sin but often lies in front of them her children are unlikely to act on her advice. A person's actions will always have more of an impact on others than their speech. It is important to note that this does not mean one needs to be perfect before advising others. It means they should sincerely strive to act on their own advice before advising others. The Holy Quran has made it clear in the following verse that Allah, the exalted, hates this behaviour. In fact, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, has warned in a Hadith found in Sahih Bukhari, number 3267, that the a person who commanded  good but refrained from it themself and prohibited evil yet acted on it themself will be punished in severely Hell. Chapter 61 As Saf, verse 3:

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      Greatly hateful in the sight of Allah is that you say what you do not do.

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      So it is vital for all Muslims to strive to act on their advice themself then advise others to do the same. Leading by example is the tradition of all the Holy Prophets, peace be upon them, and is the best way to affect others in a positive way.

      A Public Call to Islam

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      When the Companions of the Holy Prophet, may Allah be pleased with them, became around 38 in number Abu Bakkar Siddique, may Allah be pleased with him, urged the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, to proclaim and invite others openly. When this was agreed upon the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, and his Companions, may Allah be pleased with him, entered the sacred area around the House of Allah, the Exalted, the Kaaba, and Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, rose and addressed all who were present in and around the Mosque while the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, remained seated next to him. He was the first man who openly called people towards accepting Allah, the Exalted, and His Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. When the non-Muslims of Mecca heard his call they became extremely angry and violent fights broke out in the Mosque between them and the Companions, may Allah be pleased with them. Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, was badly wounded. He was taken to his home where he regained consciousness and enquired about the state of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. This incident has been discussed in Imam Ibn Kathir’s, the Life of the Prophet, Volume 1, Pages 319-320.

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      In life a muslim will always face either times of ease or times of difficulty. No one only experiences times of ease without experiencing some difficulties. But the thing to note is that even though difficulties by definition are hard to deal with they are in fact a means to obtain and demonstrate one's true greatness and servanthood to Allah, the Exalted. In addition, in the majority of cases people learn more important life lessons when they face difficulties then when they face times of ease. And people often change for the better after experiencing times of difficulty than times of ease. One only needs to reflect on this in order to understand this truth. In fact, if one studies the Holy Quran they will realise the majority of the events discussed involve difficulties. This indicates that true greatness does not lie in always experiencing times of ease. It in fact, lies in experiencing difficulties while remaining obedient to Allah, the Exalted, by fulfilling His commands, refraining from His prohibitions and by facing destiny with patience. This is proven by the fact that each of the great difficulties discussed in Islamic teachings end with ultimate success for those who obeyed Allah, the Exalted. So a muslim should not be bothered about facing difficulties as these are just moments for them to shine while acknowledging their true servanthood to Allah, the Exalted, through sincere obedience. This is the key to ultimate success in both worlds.

      Sincerity to the Prophet Muhammad (SAW)

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      When the Companions of the Holy Prophet, may Allah be pleased with them, became around 38 in number Abu Bakkar Siddique, may Allah be pleased with him, urged the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, to proclaim and invite others openly. When this was agreed upon the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, and his Companions, may Allah be pleased with him, entered the sacred area around the House of Allah, the Exalted, the Kaaba, and Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, rose and addressed all who were present in and around the Mosque while the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, remained seated next to him. He was the first man who openly called people towards accepting Allah, the Exalted, and His Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. When the non-Muslims of Mecca heard his call they became extremely angry and violent fights broke out in the Mosque between them and the Companions, may Allah be pleased with them. Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, was badly wounded. He was taken to his home where he regained consciousness and enquired about the state of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, did not eat, drink or rest until he saw that the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, was safe and sound. This has been discussed in Imam Muhammad As Sallaabee’s, The Biography of Abu Bakr As Siddeeq, Pages 56-59.

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      Even though he was on the verge of death, Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, maintained his sincerity to the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him.

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      In a Hadith found in Sahih Muslim number 196, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, advised that Islam is sincerity towards the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. This includes striving to acquire knowledge in order to act on his traditions. These traditions include the ones related to Allah, the Exalted, in the form of worship, and his blessed noble character towards the creation. Chapter 68 Al Qalam, verse 4:

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      And indeed, you are of a great moral character.

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      It includes to accept his commands and prohibitions at all times. This has been made a duty by Allah, the Exalted. Chapter 59 Al Hashr, verse 7:

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      ...And whatever the Messenger has given you - take; and what he has forbidden you - refrain from...

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      Sincerity includes to give priority to his traditions over the actions of anyone else as all paths to Allah, the Exalted, are closed except the path of the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. Chapter 3 Alee Imran, verse 31:

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      Say, [Prophet Muḥammad, peace and blessings be upon him], If you should love Allah, then follow me, [so] Allah will love you and forgive you your sins..."

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      One must love all those who supported him during his life and after his passing, whether they are from his Family or his Companions, may Allah be pleased with them all. Supporting those who walk on his path and teach his traditions is a duty on those who desire to be sincere to him. Sincerity also includes loving those who love him and disliking those who criticise him irrespective, of one’s relationship with these people. This is all summarised in a single Hadith found in Sahih Bukhari, number 16. It advises that a person cannot have true faith until they love Allah, the Exalted, and the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, more than the entire creation. This love must be shown through actions not just words. 

      Bravery

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      Ali Ibn Abu Talib, may Allah be pleased with him, once commented that Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, was the bravest of men. During the Battle of Badr he remained with and defended the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, from every attack. On another occasion, prior to the migration to Medina, the non-muslims of Mecca physically assaulted the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, and it was Abu Bakkar, may Allah be pleased with him, who defended him by striking one of them, restraining another one and throwing down another. This has been discussed in Imam Suyuti, Tarikh Al Khulafa, Page 13.

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      He was the bravest of men as he remained steadfast on the sincere obedience of Allah, the Exalted, without weakness.

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      In a Hadith found in Sahih Muslim, number 159, the Holy Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him, gave a short but far reaching piece of advice. He advised people to sincerely declare their belief in Allah, the Exalted, and then remain steadfast on it.

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      Remaining steadfast on one’s faith means that they must strive in the sincere obedience of Allah, the Exalted, in all aspects of their life. It consists of fulfilling the commands of Allah, the Exalted, which relate to Him, such as the obligatory fasts and those which relate to people, such as treating others kindly. It includes refraining from all the prohibitions of Islam which are between a person and Allah, the Exalted, and those involving others. A muslim must also face destiny with patience truly believing Allah, the Exalted, chooses what is best for His servants. Chapter 2 Al Baqarah, verse 216:

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      ...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.

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      Steadfastness can include refraining from both types of polytheism. The major type is when one worships something other than Allah, the Exalted. The minor type is when one shows off their good deeds to others. This has been warned in a Hadith found in Sunan Ibn Majah, number 3989. Therefore, an aspect of steadfastness is to always act for the sake of Allah, the Exalted.

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      It includes obeying Allah, the Exalted, at all times instead of obeying and pleasing oneself or others. If a Muslim disobeys Allah, the Exalted, by pleasing themself or others they should know neither their desires nor people will protect them from Allah, the Exalted. On the other hand, the one who is sincerely obedient to Allah, the Exalted, will be protected from all things by Him even if this protection is not apparent to them.

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      Remaining steadfast

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