Qur'an 20081231

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

181. Allah has heard the taunt of those who say, "Truly Allah is indigent, and we are rich!" We shall certainly record their words, and their slaying the prophets in defiance of right, and We shall say, "Taste you the penalty of the scorching fire!"

182. This is because of that which your hands sent on before you, for Allah never harms those who serve God.

183. They said, "Allah took our promise not to believe in a messenger, unless he showed us a sacrifice consumed by fire." Say, "There came to you messengers before me, with Clear Signs, and even with what you ask for. Why then did you slay them, if you speak the truth?"

The Family of Imran 3:181-183
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There came to you messengers before me, with Clear Signs, and even with what you ask for. Why then did you slay them, if you speak the truth?

Qur'an 20081229

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

168. The ones that say, while they themselves sit, "If only they had listened to us, they would not have been slain." Say, "Avert death from your own selves, if you speak the truth."

169. Think not of those slain in Allah's way as dead. No, they live, finding their sustenance in the Presence of their Lord.

The Family of Imran 3:168-169
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Avert death from your own selves, if you speak the truth.

We approach the most famous aspect of Islamic philosophy: do we make like Gandhi, or do we fight back?

The biggest difference of reaction between Gandhi and prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) is that prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) was commanded by God to fight back. After all, prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) was in service to Allah.

What is "fighting in Allah's cause"? Allah is the Compassionate One , the Forgiving, the Merciful, the Just... and so on. Allah commands to fight oppression. But are you fighting oppression, or taking revenge? Or even worse, fullfilling your personal ambition? These motives are not hidden to God, and God will eventually make these motives plain to humans. Besides that, how can you justify being for the cause of Allah when you INTENTIONALLY hurt the innocent? When you DON'T EVEN TRY TO HELP the innocent you accidently hurt?

What is "oppression" in the Qur'an? In studying the Qur'an, I find that authority figures and organizations are under extremely close scrutiny by Allah. If authority figures and organizations hurt the worshippers of Allah, and the innocent, then this could be counted as oppression. The situation is complex of course, but as a Muslim, how can you go wrong if you make an effort to protect the worship of Allah and make it easy, and to protect the innocent? This counts as "fighting in Allah's cause"!

5:45 We ordained therein for them: "Life for life, eye for eye, nose for nose, ear for ear, tooth for tooth, and wounds equal for equal." But if anyone remits the retaliation by way of charity, it is an act of atonement for himself. And if any fail to judge by what Allah has revealed, they wrongdoers.

Here we find a better option than revenge, and the Word of Allah is better than any human, no matter how educated he/she is. But since so few humans are willing to forgive, it results in the downward spiral of death and revenge, ever since the very first murder. In the case of prophet Muhammad (peace be on him), the oppression was so overwhelming that God was the one who drew the line, and gave the Command to fight back. Then Judgement Day. Although it is too late to stop the domino effect to Judgment Day, we can still try to be compassionate like Allah.

Qur'an 20081228

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

165. What! When a single disaster smites you, although you smote with one twice as great, do you say, "Whence is this?" Say, "It is from yourselves, for Allah has Power over all things."

166. What you suffered on the day the two armies met was with the leave of Allah, in order that God might test the believers.

167. And the hypocrites also. These were told, "Come fight in the way of Allah, or drive." They said, "Had we known there would be a fight, we should have certainly followed you." They were that day nearer to unbelief than to faith, saying with their lips what was not in their hearts. But Allah has full knowledge of all they conceal.

The Family of Imran 3:165-167
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It is from yourselves, for Allah has Power over all things.

Being firm and fighting for good is extremely hard, when the apparent rewards for being evil are so tempting. The lesson is that life is short, and the rewards for good come in the Hereafter, and if God Wills, this life also. God is not unjust, it's only that our mortal perception of time is distorted.

Nevertheless, being mortal gives us excuses to bitch and whine. That's why being patient, and persistent with good deeds, translates to great strength.

3:162 Is the man who follows the Good Pleasure of Allah like the man who draws on himself the Wrath of Allah, and whose abode is hell? A woeful refuge!

Qur'an 20081226

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

154. After that of the distress, God sent down calm on a band of you overcome with slumber, while another band was stirred with anxiety by their own feelings, moved by wrong suspicions of Allah- suspicions due to ignorance. They said, "What affair is this of ours?" Say you, "Indeed, this affair is wholly Allah's." They hide in their minds what they dare not reveal to you. They say,"If we had had anything to do with this affair, we would not have been in the slaughter here." Say, "Even if you had remained in your homes, those for whom death was decreed would certainly have gone forth to the place of their death." But that Allah might test what is in your breasts, and purge what is in your hearts. For Allah knows well the secrets of your hearts.

The Family of Imran 3:154
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Indeed, this affair is wholly Allah's.

Even if you had remained in your homes, those for whom death was decreed would certainly have gone forth to the place of their death.

Qur'an 20081222

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

119. Ah! You are those who love them, but they love you not, though you believe in the whole of the Book. When they meet you, they say, "We believe," but when they are alone, they bite off the very tips of their fingers at you in their rage. Say, "Perish in your rage. Allah knows well all the secrets of the heart."

120. If aught that is good befalls you, it grieves them, but if some misfortune overtakes you, they rejoice at it. But if you are constant and do right, not the least harm will their cunning do to you, for Allah compasses round about all that they do.

The Family of Imran 3:119-120
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Perish in your rage. Allah knows well all the secrets of the heart.

Qur'an 20081219

95. Say, "Allah speaks the Truth: follow the religion of Abraham, the sane in faith. He was not of the pagans."

96. The first House appointed for humans was that at Bakkah, full of blessing, and of guidance for all kinds of beings.

97. In it are Signs manifest, the Station of Abraham: whoever enters it attains security. Pilgrimage thereto is a duty humans owe to Allah, those who can afford the journey. But if any deny faith, Allah stands not in need of any of God's creatures.

98. Say, "O people of the Book! Why reject you the Signs of Allah, when Allah is Witness to all you do?"

99. Say, "O people of the Book! Why obstruct you those who believe, from the path of Allah, seeking to make it crooked, while you were yourselves witnesses? But Allah is not unmindful of all that you do."

100. O you who believe! If you listen to a faction among the people of the Book, they would render you apostates after you have believed!

The Family of Imran 3:95-100
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Allah speaks the Truth: follow the religion of Abraham, the sane in faith. He was not of the pagans.

O people of the Book! Why reject you the Signs of Allah, when Allah is Witness to all you do?

O people of the Book! Why obstruct you those who believe, from the path of Allah, seeking to make it crooked, while you were yourselves witnesses? But Allah is not unmindful of all that you do.

Qur'an 20081218

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

92. By no means shall you attain righteousness unless you give of which you love. And whatever you give, of a truth Allah knows it well.

93. All food was lawful to the children of Israel, except what Israel made unlawful for itself, before the Law was revealed. Say,"Bring you the Law and study it, if you be men of truth."

94. If any after this, invent a lie and attribute it to Allah, they are indeed unjust wrongdoers.

The Family of Imran 3:92-94
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Bring you the Law and study it, if you be men of truth.

Qur'an 20081217

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

83. Do they seek for other than the Religion of Allah? While all creatures in the heavens and on earth have, willing or unwilling, bowed to God's Will, and to God shall they all be brought back.

84. Say, "We believe in Allah, and in what has been revealed to us, and what was revealed to Abraham, Ismail, Isaac, Jacob, and the Tribes, and that given to Moses, Jesus, and the prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between one and another among them, and to God do we bow our will."

The Family of Imran 3:83-84
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We believe in Allah, and in what has been revealed to us, and what was revealed to Abraham, Ismail, Isaac, Jacob, and the Tribes, and that given to Moses, Jesus, and the prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction between one and another among them, and to God do we bow our will.

Qur'an 20081216

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

72. A section of the people of the Book say, "Believe in the morning what is revealed to the believers, but reject it at the end of the day, perchance they may turn back."

73. "And believe no one unless he follows your religion." Say, "True guidance is the Guidance of Allah, lest a revelation be sent to someone like unto that which was sent unto you! Or that those should engage you in argument before your Lord?" Say, "All bounties are in the Hand of Allah: God grants them to whom God pleases, and Allah is the All-Caring, the Omniscient."

74. For God's Mercy, God specially chooses whom God pleases. For Allah is the Lord of bounties unbounded.

The Family of Imran 3:72-74
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True guidance is the Guidance of Allah, lest a revelation be sent to someone like unto that which was sent unto you! Or that those should engage you in argument before your Lord?

All bounties are in the Hand of Allah: God grants them to whom God pleases, and Allah is the All-Caring, the Omniscient.

Qur'an 20081215

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

64. Say: "O people of the Book! Come to common terms as between us and you: that we worship none but Allah, that we associate no partners with God, that we erect not, from among ourselves, lords and patrons other than Allah." If they turn back, say you: "Bear witness that we are Muslims."

65. Ye people of the Book! Why dispute you about Abraham, when the Law and the Gospel were not revealed till after him? Have you no understanding?

66. Ah! You are those who fell to disputing in matters of which you had some knowledge! But why dispute you in matters of which you have no knowledge? It is Allah who Knows, and you who know not!

67. Abraham was not a Jew nor yet a Christian, but he was true in Faith, and bowed his will to Allah's, and he joined not gods with Allah.

The Family of Imran 3:64-67
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O people of the Book! Come to common terms as between us and you: that we worship none but Allah, that we associate no partners with God, that we erect not, from among ourselves, lords and patrons other than Allah.

Bear witness that we are Muslims.

Prophet Abraham was truly a remarkable person. In the Qur'an, Allah refers to him as a "friend". His name is mentioned in honor along with prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) in every congregational prayer. How is it that he acquired such a high rank in the Sight of God? Most of the prophets mentioned in the Qur'an were either wartime prophets (Muhammad, David, Solomon), or withstood severe oppression (Moses, Jesus, Joseph, Lot). There were some prophets who weren't subject to such extremes (Idris, Luqman), but they did not achieve the highest rank.

Then there was Abraham. He attained Awareness of God at a very young age (15/16), and since there is no mention in the Qur'an of visitation by angels until he got older, he reached Awareness of God by his own reckoning (no books, no human teachers), by the Leave of Allah. Banished by his own family of idolaters, he worked alone most of his life (no followers), in the desert, laying the foundations of the city of Mecca. When prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) visited heaven in the event of Isra'/Mi'raj, he found Abraham waiting in the highest heaven.

Qur'an 20081214

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

59. The similitude of Jesus before Allah is as that of Adam. God created him from dust, then said to him, "Be!" And he was.

60. The Truth from your Lord alone, so be not of those who doubt.

61. If anyone disputes in this matter with you now after knowledge has come to you, say, "Come! Let us gather our sons and your sons, our women and your women, ourselves and yourselves. Then let us earnestly pray, and invoke the curse of Allah on those who lie!"

62. This is the true account: there is no god except Allah. And Allah: God is indeed the Exalted in Power, the Wise.

63. But if they turn back, Allah has full knowledge of those who do mischief.

The Family of Imran 3:59-63
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Come! Let us gather our sons and your sons, our women and your women, ourselves and yourselves. Then let us earnestly pray, and invoke the curse of Allah on those who lie!

Qur'an 20081210

In the name ofAllah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

28. Let not the believers take for friends or helpers unbelievers rather than believers. If any do that, in nothing will there be help from Allah except by way of precaution, that you may guard yourselves from them. But Allah cautions you Godself, for the final goal is to Allah.

29. Say, "Whether you hide what is in your hearts or reveal it, Allah knows it all. God knows what is in the heavens, and what is on earth, and Allah has power over all things."

30. On the day when every soul will be confronted with all the good it has done, and all the evil it has done, it will wish there were a great distance between it and its evil. But Allah cautions you Godself, and Allah is Full of Kindness to those that serve God.

31. Say, "If you do love Allah, follow me. Allah will love you, and forgive you your sins, for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, most Merciful."

32. Say, "Obey Allah and God's messenger." But if they turn back, Allah loveth not those who reject Faith.

The Family of Imran 3:28-32
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Whether you hide what is in your hearts or reveal it, Allah knows it all. God knows what is in the heavens, and what is on earth, and Allah has power over all things.

If you do love Allah, follow me. Allah will love you, and forgive you your sins, for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, most Merciful.

Obey Allah and God's messenger.

I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship besides Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad is the messenger of Allah.

Qur'an 20081209

In the name ofAllah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

23. Have you turned your vision to those who have been given a portion of the Book? They are invited to the Book of Allah to settle their dispute, but a party of them turn back and decline.

24. This because they say, "The fire shall not touch us but for a few numbered days." For their forgeries deceive them as to their own religion.

25. But how, when We gather them together against a Day about which there is no doubt, and each soul will be paid out just what it has earned, without injustice?

26. Say, "O Allah! Lord of Power! You give Power to whom you please, and You strip off Power from whom You please. You endue with honor whom You please, and You bring low whom You please. In Your Hand is all Good. Verily, over all things You have Power."

The Family of Imran 3:21-26
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O Allah! Lord of Power! You give Power to whom you please, and You strip off Power from whom You please. You endue with honor whom You please, and You bring low whom You please. In Your Hand is all Good. Verily, over all things You have Power.

Those who killed the prophets of Allah, and those who killed people who teach just dealing with mankind have no clue of power, and the measure of time. Allah promises them a grievous penalty. They will get theirs, if not already.

Qur'an 20081208

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

12. Say to those who reject Faith, "Soon you will be vanquished, and gathered together to hell- an evil bed indeed!"

13. There has already been for you a Sign in the two armies that met: one was fighting in the Cause of Allah, the other resisting Allah; these saw with their own eyes twice their number. But Allah does support with God's aid whom God pleases. In this is a warning for such as have eyes to see.

14. Fair in the eyes of men is the love of things they covet: women and sons, heaped up hoards of gold and silver, horses branded and cattle, and well-tilled land. Such are the possessions of this world's life, but in nearness to Allah is the best of the goals.

15. Say, "Shall I give you glad tidings of things far better than those? For the righteous are Gardens in nearness to their Lord, with rivers flowing beneath. Therein is their eternal home, with companions pure, and in good pleasure of Allah. For in Allah's sight are God's servants."

16. Those who say,"Our Lord! We have indeed believed. Forgive us then our sins, and save us from the agony of the fire."

17. Those who show patience, firmness and self-control, who are true, who worship devoutly, who spend, and who pray for forgiveness in the early hours of the morning.

18. There is no god but God. That is the witness of Allah, God's angels, and those endued with knowledge, standing firm on justice. There is no god but God, the Exalted in Power, the Wise.

19. The Religion before Allah is Islam. Nor did the people of the Book dissent therefrom except through envy of each other, after knowledge had come to them. But if any deny the Signs of Allah, Allah is Swift in calling to account.

20. So if they dispute with thee, say, "I have submitted my whole self to Allah, and so have those who follow me." And say to the people of the Book, and those who are unlearned, "Do you submit yourselves?" If they do, they are in right guidance. But if they turn back, thy duty is to convey the Message. And in Allah's sight are God's servants.

The Family of Imran 3:12-20.
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Soon you will be vanquished, and gathered together to hell- an evil bed indeed!

Shall I give you glad tidings of things far better than those? For the righteous are Gardens in nearness to their Lord, with rivers flowing beneath. Therein is their eternal home, with companions pure, and in good pleasure of Allah. For in Allah's sight are God's servants.

Our Lord! We have indeed believed. Forgive us then our sins, and save us from the agony of the fire.

I have submitted my whole self to Allah, and so have those who follow me.

Do you submit yourselves?

Qur'an 20081121

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

222. They ask thee concerning women's courses. Say, "They are a hurt and a pollution, so keep away from women in their courses, and do not approach them until they are clean. But when they have purified themselves, you may approach them in any manner, time or place Ordained for you by Allah. For Allah loves those who turn to God constantly, and God loves those who keep themselves pure and clean."

223. Your wives are as a tilth to you, so approach your tilth when or how you will. But do some good act for your souls beforehand, and fear Allah, and know that you are to meet God. And give good tidings to those who believe.

224. And make not Allah an excuse in your oaths against doing good, or acting rightly, or making peace between persons, for Allah is One who Hears and Knows all things.

225. Allah will not call you to account for thoughtlessness in your oaths, but for the intention in your hearts. And God is the Oft-Forgiving, Most Forbearing.

The Heifer 2:222-225
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Concerning women's courses: they are a hurt and a pollution, so keep away from women in their courses, and do not approach them until they are clean. But when they have purified themselves, you may approach them in any manner, time or place Ordained for you by Allah. For Allah loves those who turn to God constantly, and God loves those who keep themselves pure and clean.

Qur'an 20081120

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

219. They ask thee concerning booze and gambling. Say, "In them is great sin, and some benefit, for mankind, but the sin is greater than the benefit." They ask thee how much they are to spend. Say, "What is beyond your needs." Thus does Allah make clear to you God's Signs, in order that you may consider...

220. about this life and the Hereafter. They ask thee concerning orphans. Say, "The best thing to do is what is for their good." If you mix their affairs with yours, they are your brethren. But Allah knows the man who means mischief from the man who means good. And if Allah had willed, God could have put you into difficulties. God is indeed Exalted in Power, Wise.

The Heifer 2:219-220
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Concerning booze and gambling: In them is great sin, and some benefit, for mankind, but the sin is greater than the benefit.

How much to spend? What is beyond your needs.

Concerning orphans: The best thing to do is what is for their good.

Qur'an 20081119

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

215. They ask thee what they should spend. Say, "Whatever you spend that is good, is for parents, and kindred, and orphans, and those in want, and for wayfarers, and whatever you do that is good: Allah knows it well."

216. Fighting is prescribed upon you, and you dislike it. But it is possible that you dislike a thing which is good for you, and that you love a thing which is bad for you. But Allah knows, and you know not.

217. They ask thee concerning fighting in the Prohibited Month. Say, "Fighting therein is grievous, but graver it is in the Sight of Allah to prevent access to the path of Allah, to deny God, to prevent access to the Sacred Mosque, and drive out its members. Tumult and oppression are worse than slaughter, nor will they cease fighting you until they turn you back from your faith if they can. And if any of you turn back from their faith and die in unbelief, their works will bear no fruit in this life and in the Hereafter: they will be companions of the fire, and will abide therein."

218. Those who believed, and those who suffered exile and fought in the Path of Allah: they have the Mercy of Allah. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.

The Heifer 2:215-218
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Whatever you spend that is good, is for parents, and kindred, and orphans, and those in want, and for wayfarers, and whatever you do that is good: Allah knows it well.

Fighting therein is grievous, but graver it is in the Sight of Allah to prevent access to the path of Allah, to deny God, to prevent access to the Sacred Mosque, and drive out its members. Tumult and oppression are worse than slaughter, nor will they cease fighting you until they turn you back from your faith if they can. And if any of you turn back from their faith and die in unbelief, their works will bear no fruit in this life and in the Hereafter: they will be companions of the fire, and will abide therein.

Qur'an 20081114

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

189. They ask thee concerning the New Moons. Say, "They are but signs to mark fixed periods of time in men, and for Pilgrimage." It is no virtue if you enter your houses from the back: it is virtue ifyou fear Allah. Enter houses through the proper doors, and fear Allah, that you may prosper.
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They are but signs to mark fixed periods of time in men, and for Pilgrimage.

The Islamic calendar is a lunar calender. The new moons are used to measure time, and that's it. There are no superstitions involved, and there is no worship of the moon.

Qur'an 20081105

142. The fools among the people will say, What has turned them from their Direction to which they used to face in prayer? Say, "To Allah belongs both east and west. God guides whom God wills to the Straight Way."

The Heifer 2:142
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To Allah belongs both east and west. God guides whom God wills to the Straight Way.

Qur'an 20081104

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

135. They say, "Become Jews or Christians if you would be guided." Say thou, "Nay! The Religion of Abraham, the True, and he joined not gods with Allah."

136. Say ye, "We believe in Allah, and the revelation given to us, and to Abaham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob and the descendents, and that given to Moses, and Jesus, and that given to Prophets from their Lord. We make no difference between one and another of them, and we bow to Allah."

137. So if they believe as you believe, they are indeed on the right path: but if they turn back, it is they who are in a schism. But Allah will suffice you as against them, and God is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing.

138. The Color of Allah: and who can color better than Allah? And it is God whom we worship.

139. Say, "Will you dispute with us about Allah, seeing that God is our Lord and your Lord: that we are responsible for our doings and you for yours, and that we are sincere to God?"

140. Or so you say that Abraham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob and the descendents were Jews and Christians? Say, "Do you know better than Allah?" Ah! Who is more unjust than those who conceal the testimony they have from Allah? But Allah is not unmindful of what you do!

The Heifer 2:135-140
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Nay! The Religion of Abraham, the True, and he joined not gods with Allah.

We believe in Allah, and the revelation given to us, and to Abaham, Ishmael, Isaac, Jacob and the descendents, and that given to Moses, and Jesus, and that given to Prophets from their Lord. We make no difference between one and another of them, and we bow to Allah.

Will you dispute with us about Allah, seeing that God is our Lord and your Lord: that we are responsible for our doings and you for yours, and that we are sincere to God?

Do you know better than Allah?

25:57 Say, "No reward do I ask of you for this, save that whosoever wills may take a Path to his Lord."

No reward do I ask of you for this, save that whosoever wills may take a Path to his Lord.

Qur'an 20081102

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

120. Never will the Jews or the Christians be satisfied with you unless you follow their form of religion. Say, "The Guidance of Allah: that is the Guidance." Were you to follow their desires after the knowledge which has reached you, then would you find neither Protector nor Helper against Allah.

121. Those to whom We have sent the Book study it as it should be studied: they are the ones that believe therein. Those who reject faith therein: the loss is their own.

The Heifer 2:120-121
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The Guidance of Allah: that is the Guidance.

Qur'an 20081101

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

110. And be steadfast in prayer, and regular in charity, and whatever good you send forth for your souls before you, you shall find it with Allah: for Allah sees well all that you do.

111. And they say, "None shall enter Paradise unless he be a Jew or a Christian." Those are their desires. Say, "Produce your proof, if you are truthful."

112. Nay, whoever submits his whole self to Allah, and is a doer of good: he will get his reward with his Lord. On such shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve.

The Heifer 2:110-112
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Produce your proof, if you are truthful.

Qur'an 20081030

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

91. When it is said to them, "Believe in what Allah has sent down," they say. "We believe in what was sent down to us." Yet they reject all besides, even if it be Truth confirming what is with them. Say, "Why then have you slain the prophets of Allah in times gone by, if you did indeed believe?"

92. There came to you Moses with Clarity, yet you worshipped the calf after that, and you did behave wrongfully.

93. And remember We took your Covenant, and We raised above you of the mountain: "Hold firmly to what We have given you, and hearken." They said, "We hear, and we disobey." And they had to drink into their hearts of the calf because of their faithlessness. Say, "Vile indeed are the behests of your faith, if you have any faith!"

94. Say, "If the last Home with Allah be for you specially, and not for anyone else, then seek you for death, if you are sincere."

95. But they will never seek for death, on account of that which their hands have sent on before them, and Allah is Well-acquainted with the wrongdoers.

96. Thou will indeed find them, of all people, most greedy of life, even more than the idolaters. Each one of them wishes he could be given a life of a thousand years. But the grant of such life will not save him from punishment, for Allah sees well all that they do.

97. Say, "Whoever is an enemy to Gabriel, for he brings down this to your heart by Allah's will, a confirmation of what went before, and Guidance, and Glad Tidings for those who Believe-"

98. "Whoever is an enemy to Allah, and God's angels and prophets, to Gabriel and Michael- Lo! Allah is an Enemy to those who reject Faith."

The Heifer 2:91-98
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Why then have you slain the prophets of Allah in times gone by, if you did indeed believe?

Vile indeed are the behests of your faith, if you have any faith!

If the last Home with Allah be for you specially, and not for anyone else, then seek you for death, if you are sincere.

Whoever is an enemy to Gabriel, for he brings down this to your heart by Allah's will, a confirmation of what went before, and Guidance, and Glad Tidings for those who Believe-

Whoever is an enemy to Allah, and God's angels and prophets, to Gabriel and Michael- Lo! Allah is an Enemy to those who reject Faith.

The calf referred to in verses 2:92 and 2:93 is the golden calf idol which the Children of Israel made out of their ornaments while Moses wasn't around to keep an eye on them. I believe the calf also represents materialism, or rather the worship of material things, which carries a greater value to the materialist than the Worship of God.

One of the slain prophets referred to in 2:91 is Jesus.

Qur'an 20081029

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

79. Then woe to those who write the Book with their own hands, and then say, "This is from Allah," to traffic with it for a miserable price! Woe to them for what their hands do write, and for the gain they make thereby.

80. And they say, "The Fire shall not touch us but for a few numbered days." Say, "Have you taken a promise from Allah, for God never breaks a Promise? Or is it you say of Allah what you do not know?"

81. Nay, those who seek gain in evil, and are girt round by their sins- they are companions of the Fire: therein shall they abide."

The Heifer 2:79-81
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Have you taken a promise from Allah, for God never breaks a Promise? Or is it you say of Allah what you do not know?

I believe verse 2:71 is a warning to those who write something, then claim that it is from God, to try to make money, or gain some power, whether it be Muslims, Christians, Jews, or otherwise. I believe this clause also includes the people who add unnecessary stuff to the Commandments of the Qur'an and the teachings of prophet Muhammad (peace be on him).

The rationale of some "believers" is to take for granted that they will be Forgiven by God, and that they will only reside in the Fire for a short time if they commit a sin.

Qur'an 20081015

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

1. Say, "I seek refuge with the Lord and Cherisher of mankind,

2. The Ruler of mankind,

3. The God of mankind,

4. From the mischief of the Whisperer, who withdraws,

5. Who whispers into the hearts of mankind,

6. Among Jinns, and among men."

Mankind 114:1-6
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This chapter wraps up the Qur'an as we know it today, with a summary of existence: humans (and Jinns) are in conflict with Satan, until Judgment Day.

Beginning tomorrow, I will loop back to verse 1. I'm turning one page a day for my daily reading nowadays. When the time comes, I will pick a random page. The Qur'an is Perfect, regardless.

Qur'an 20081014

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

1. Say,"I seek refuge with the Lord of the Dawn,"

2. "From the mischief of created things,"

3. "From the mischief of darkness as it overspreads,"

4. "From the mischief of those who practise secret arts,"

5. "And from the mischief of the envious one as he practises envy."

The Daybreak 113:1-5
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Qur'an 20081013

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

1. Say, "God is Allah, the One and Only."

2. "Allah, the Eternal, Absolute."

3. "God begetteth not, nor is God begotten."

4. "And there is none like unto God."

The Purity of Faith 112:1-4
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Sincerity. How sincere are you in your relationship with God?

Do you conduct your religion mostly for the sake of conforming?

Do you conduct your religion mostly for the sake of being seen by other people?

Qur'an 20081010

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

1. Say, "O ye who reject Faith!

2. I worship not that which you worship,

3. Nor will you worship that which I worship,

4. And I will not worship that which you have been wont to worship,

5. Nor will you worship that which I worship.

6. To you be your way, and to me, mine."

109 Those Who Reject Faith

Qur'an 20080724

In the name of Allah, most gracious, most Merciful.

20. Say,"I do no more than invoke my Lord, and I join not with God, any."

21. Say, "It is not in my power to cause you harm, or to bring you to right conduct."

22. Say, "No one can deliver me from Allah, nor should I find refuge except in God."

23. Mine is only to convey what I receive from Allah and God's Messages: for any that disobey Allah and God's messenger, for them is hell: they shall dwell therein forever.

24. At length, when they see that which they are promised, then will they know who it is that is weakest in helper, and least important in point of numbers.

25. Say, "I know not whether that which you are promised is near, or whether my Lord will appoint it for a distant term."

The Jinns 72:20-25
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I do no more than invoke my Lord, and I join not with God, any.

It is not in my power to cause you harm, or to bring you to right conduct.

No one can deliver me from Allah, nor should I find refuge except in God.

I know not whether that which you are promised is near, or whether my Lord will appoint it for a distant term.

Qur'an 20080722

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

1. Say, "It has been revealed to me that a company of Jinns listened. They said, 'We have heard a wonderful Recital!'"

2. 'It gives guidance to the Right, and we have believed therein: we shall not join any with our Lord.'

3. 'And exalted is the Majesty of our Lord: God has taken neither a wife, nor a son.'

4. 'There were some foolish ones among us, who used to utter extravagant lies against Allah,'

5. 'But we do think that no man or spirit should say aught that untrue against Allah.'

6. 'True, there were persons among mankind who took shelter with persons among the Jinns, but they increased them in folly.'

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It has been revealed to me that a company of Jinns listened. They said, 'We have heard a wonderful Recital!'

Humankind is not the only species on earth. Sure, there are animals of all sorts; what I mean is humanity is not the only sentient species, under trial. Humans share this planet with the Jinns, or spirits. Also know as ghosts, apparitions, phantoms, etc., what most people refer to as "supernatural". They come in various sizes and shapes, from microscopic to gigantic. Some people see them, some people have friends among them, some people pray along with them, and some people worship them. Most people ignore them.

The most famous Jinn whispers to humans about their desires. His name is Satan, also known in the Qur'an as Iblis. He became famous for his vow to destroy all humanity, because he feels he is better than humans. He got into an argument with God, when God created Adam out of clay. God commanded the angels to bow to Adam, but Satan refused to bow. God banished Satan, and from that Satan brought about the downfall of Adam and Eve, and got them both kicked out of Paradise, after which God banished both the human and the Jinn races to live imperfect lives on earth.

This is until Judgement Day, when humans will be tried individually for their deeds. Satan is already guaranteed a place in Hell, but select humans who reject Satan's call to indulge in evil, will be forgiven by God, and return to Paradise.

Not all Jinns are bad: there are good Jinns out there, who pray, and do good deeds. They are under the same trial as humans, all because of the acts of Satan. The Qur'an commands that we regard and treat Satan as an enemy. Being that humans are baseline weak, it is easier said than done. Satan is extremely intelligent! Satan is an illusionist, a master at creating illusions. That is why we pray, and ask God to help us get by until Judgement Day without too much evil on our backs. This includes the evil of others towards us.

Do not fear the supernatural! Only a fool is without fear, but pious people put their fear in Allah.

Qur'an 20080707

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

21. Or who is there that can provide you with sustenance if God were to withhold God's provision? No, they obstinately persist in insolent impiety and flight.

22. Is then one who walks headlong, with his face groveling, better guided; or one who walks evenly on a straight way?

23. Say, "It is God who has created you, and made for you the faculties of hearing, seeing, feeling, and understanding. Little thanks it is you give."

24. Say, "It is God who has multiplied you through the earth, and to God shall you be gathered together."

25. They ask, "When will this promise be, if you are telling the truth?"

26. Say, "As to the knowledge of the time, it is with Allah alone. I am sent only to warn in public."

27. At length, when they see it close at hand, grieved will be the faces of the unbelievers, and it will be said, "This is which you were calling for!"

28. Say, "See you? If Allah were to destroy me and those with me, or if God bestows God's mercy on us, yet who can deliver the unbelievers from a grevious penalty?"

29. Say, "God is most Gracious. We have believed in God, and on God have we put our trust. So, soon will you know which it is that is in manifest error!"

30. Say, "See you? If your stream be some morning lost, who then can supply you with clear-flowing water?"

The Dominion 67:21-30
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It is God who has created you, and made for you the faculties of hearing, seeing, feeling, and understanding. Little thanks it is you give.

It is God who has multiplied you through the earth, and to God shall you be gathered together.

As to the knowledge of the time, it is with Allah alone. I am sent only to warn in public.

See you? If Allah were to destroy me and those with me, or if God bestows God's mercy on us, yet who can deliver the unbelievers from a grevious penalty?

See you? If your stream be some morning lost, who then can supply you with clear-flowing water?

Qur'an 20080625

In the name of Allah. most Gracious, most Merciful.

5. Has not the story reached you, of those who rejected Faith aforetime? So they tasted the evil result of their conduct, and they had a grievous Penalty.

6. That was because there came to them messengers with Clear Signs, but they said: "Shall human beings direct us?" So they rejected and turned away, but Allah can do without: and Allah is Free of all needs, Worthy of all praise.

7. The unbelievers think that they will not be raised up. Say, "Yea, by my Lord, you shall surely be raised up. Then you shall be told of all that you did, and that is easy for Allah."

The mutual loss and gain 64:7-9
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Yea, by my Lord, you shall surely be raised up. Then you shall be told of all that you did, and that is easy for Allah.

Qur'an 20080621

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

5. The similitude of those who were charged with the Mosaic Law, but who subsequently failed in those, is that of a donkey which carries huge tomes. Evil is the similitude of people who falsify the Signs of Allah; and Allah guides not people who do wrong.

6. Say, "O you who stand on Judaism! If you think you are friends to Allah, to the exclusion of mankind, then express your desire for death, if you are truthful!"

7. But never will they express their desire, because of what their hands have sent on before them! And Allah knows well those who do wrong!

8. Say, "The death from which you flee will truly overtake you. Then will you be sent back to the Knower of things secret and open, and God will tell you the things that you did!"

9. O you who believe! When prayer is proclaimed on Friday, hasten earnestly to the Remembrance of Allah and leave off business. That is best for you, if you only knew!

10. And when the prayer is finished, then you may disperse through the land, and seek of the Bounty of Allah often, that you may prosper!

11. But when they see some bargain or some amusement,they disperse headlong to it, and leave thee standing. Say, "That from the Presence of Allah is better than any amusement or bargain! And Allah is the Best to provide!"

Friday 62:5-11
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O you who stand on Judaism! If you think you are friends to Allah, to the exclusion of mankind, then express your desire for death, if you are truthful!

The death from which you flee will truly overtake you. Then will you be sent back to the Knower of things secret and open, and God will tell you the things that you did!

That from the Presence of Allah is better than any amusement or bargain! And Allah is the Best to provide!

There are reasons Allah commanded mass prayer on Friday afternoon, the busiest time of the week. One is to show humanity that prayer is more important than business. In some countries, Friday is a public holiday, so it isn't the busiest time of the week!

When I was younger, I was engrossed in career, and earning money thereof. I believed that God would excuse me for missing prayer, because I was busy trying to earn a living. My materialism came at great cost to me, not just spiritually, but caused me much physical damage as well. My mother urged me to be stricter in prayer, and she was right. Thanks, Mom! It turns out that by being stricter in prayer earned me more power and respect from humans, and more importantly, more reward from God, and made my Islam stronger. I had to struggle hard for my right to pray regularly, when I'm supposed to. BUT IT WAS BETTER FOR ME!

Qur'an 20080509

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

30. Or do they say, "A poet! We await for him some calamity by time!"

31. Say thou, "Await ye! I too will wait along with you!"

32. Is it that their faculties of understanding urge them to this, or are they but a people transgressing beyond bounds?

33. Or do they say, "He fabricated this?" Nay, they have no faith!

34. Let them produce a recital like unto it, if they speak the truth!

The Mountain 52:30-34
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Await ye! I too will wait along with you!

One of the Evidences of the Divine Nature of the Qur'an is its inability to be mimicked. The ancient Arabs were a society of poets, and they tried their best to mimic the Qur'an, but to no avail. Now, what you, the reader here, are seeing is a translation into English of a few verses of the Qur'an. Ancient Arabic, with its vowel and grammar system, is very meticulous, and complex. Add a complex rhyme, rhythm and story system to that. Add a comprehensive legal structure to that. Add great density, and manipulation of time to that. A pure translation of the Qur'an is near impossible, let alone an imitation.

I find it easiest to understand the Qur'an as a Book of Law, in which to live my life with. But it's much more than that- often I find that the Qur'an lives, and breathes. But only God knows the meaning of all this Qur'an.

Death of a clown

There was a clown, who worked as a mascot for a baseball team. The team was successful, thus the clown was wealthy. He was gay, and he was a transvestite clown. He and his gay lover would make a mess of his nice house, and expect the servants to clean it up. He would wear very short skirts with no underwear, and allow his urine to stain his clothes after he used the bathroom. Then he would go straight to work at the stadium, slapping hands with the crowd waiting in line. Everybody knew him! As he entered the gate, the crowd and the gatekeeper would say, "Hello Clown!" Even as he got older, and uglier, and started to dress more modestly, he was still very popular. One day the gatekeeper saw him at the gate, and said "Hello Clown! You look much younger today!" But the Clown happened to be a faceless man with a mask, and he said, "No! The Clown is dead! I'm just emulating my hero!" The Clown was very famous.

Every time the Clown went to work, he would go high up the stairs into the bleachers, because there were many people and cameras there. The crowd would cheer him on, as he made them laugh. One day, he saw some nicer seats downstairs, so he descended, and it turned out to be the Presidential Booth. He wanted to play a joke on the President, so the Clown stuck his head out from the seats above the booth, and surprised the President. The President got angry, and started to swear, and shook his fist at the Clown. The crowd thought it was very funny, so the Clown turned the incident into a routine, using his gay lover to reprise the role of President.

One day the Clown descended to the seats below, and found a basketball. He had never played basketball before, so he became curious, and began to bounce the ball. Some people upstairs started to cheer him on, and threw down some change and peanuts. The Clown threw the change and peanuts back, and it fell into their drinking cups, without missing a single one! It was then that the Clown discovered that he was good at basketball. He tried for a career in basketball, but everyone he turned to said, "No, we don't want you to play basketball because you're too old, and everyone likes you as a gay clown who is a mascot for the baseball team. It doesn't matter if you're good at basketball or not."

One day, the Clown did his Presidential Booth routine, and he descended down to surprise his gay lover. But he wasn't there. Instead, there was a stadium official sitting there. He said to the Clown, "Your gay lover is dead. Didn't you know?" The Clown didn't.

Qur'an 20080429

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

13. O mankind! We created you from of a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know each other. Verily the most honored of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you, and Allah has full Knowledge, and is Well Acquainted.

14. The desert Arabs say, "We believe." Say, "You have no faith, but you say, 'We have submitted our wills to Allah,' for not yet has Faith entered your hearts. But if you obey Allah and God's Messenger, God will not belittle aught of your deeds, for Allah is Oft-forgiving, most Merciful."

15. Only those are Believers who have believed in Allah and God's Messenger, and have never since doubted, but have striven with their belongings and their persons in the Cause of Allah: such are the sincere ones.

16. Say, "What! Will you instruct Allah about your religion? But Allah knows all that is in the heavens and on earth. Allah has full knowledge of all things."

17. They impress on thee as a favor that they have embraced Islam. Say, "Count not your Islam as a favor upon me. Nay, Allah has conferred a favor upon you that God has guided you to the Faith, if you be true and sincere."

18. Verily Allah knows the secrets of the heavens and the earth, and Allah sees well all that you do.

The Chambers 49:13-18
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You have no faith, but you say, "We have submitted our wills to Allah," for not yet has Faith entered your hearts. But if you obey Allah and God's Messenger, God will not belittle aught of your deeds, for Allah is Oft-forgiving, most Merciful.

What! Will you instruct Allah about your religion? But Allah knows all that is in the heavens and on earth. Allah has full knowledge of all things.

Count not your Islam as a favor upon me. Nay, Allah has conferred a favor upon you that God has guided you to the Faith, if you be true and sincere.

Verse 13 is a confirmation of the various races and nations of humankind, the reason being that we may gain knowledge of and from each other. Righteousness has no gender, race or nation: it is simply the best of humanity. Some of those who profess "faith", just do with words. But if they back up their words with obedience to the laws set forth by Allah in the Qur'an, and the genuine teachings of the prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), then Allah will treat them with Mercy.

Sincere righteousness is not just a "leap of faith", but a "leap of faith with all-out-abandon". Ya Allah! You are my Witness! Even in my wanderings, I have never left You, insyaAllah! And the music that You gave me; even in its experimentation, is from data that You granted upon me. I gave You, and the music You gave me, everything I had, until all I have left are the bags I am able to carry on my back. Ya Allah! You are my Witness! Please forgive me for my weakness, for without You, I would have never got this far. The music that You gave me is my mission: please make my mission a success, and please make me conduct my mission with sincere righteousness.

Qur'an 20080424

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

15. Those who lagged behind: "When you march and take booty, permit us to follow you." They wish to change Allah's decree. Say, "Not thus will you follow us. Allah has already declared beforehand." Then they will say, "But you are jealous of us!" Nay, but little do they understand.

16. Say to the desert Arabs who lagged behind, "You shall be summoned to fight against a people given to vehement war. Then shall you fight, or they shall submit. Then if you show obedience, Allah will grant you a goodly reward, but if you turn back as you did before, God will punish you with a Grievous Penalty."

17. No blame is there on the blind, nor is there blame on the lame, nor on one ill. But he that obeys Allah and God's Messenger.... Will admit him to Gardens beneath which rivers flow. And he who turns back.... Will punish him with a Grievous Penalty.

The Victory 48:15-17
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Not thus will you follow us. Allah has already declared beforehand.

You shall be summoned to fight against a people given to vehement war. Then shall you fight, or they shall submit. Then if you show obedience, Allah will grant you a goodly reward, but if you turn back as you did before, God will punish you with a Grievous Penalty.

Qur'an 20080423

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

11. The desert Arabs who lagged behind will say to thee, "We were engaged in our flocks and herds, and our families, do thou then ask forgiveness for us?" They say with their tongues what is not in their hearts. Say, "Who then has any power in your behalf with Allah, if God's Will is to give you some loss, or to give you some profit? But Allah is well acquainted with all that you do."

12. Nay, you thought that the Messenger and the Believers would never return to their families. This seemed pleasing to your hearts, and you conceived an evil thought, for you are a people lost.

13. And if any believe not in Allah and God's Messenger, We have prepared for the unbelievers, a blazing Fire!

14. To Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth. God forgives whom God wills, and God punishes whom God wills; but Allah is Oft-Forgiving, most Merciful.

The Victory 48:11-14
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Who then has any power in your behalf with Allah, if God's Will is to give you some loss, or to give you some profit? But Allah is well acquainted with all that you do.

Generally, human nature is to "catch up to" mistakes. This includes wrongs done to another person, by asking that person for mercy. The righteous person must try to forgive. God is the best at granting Forgiveness, but there are some things that God does not forgive.

In the Qur'an, we can find Allah complaining about the Arabs several times. Being that the Qur'an is in Arabic, the prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) was an Arab, his mission was to the Arab people, and all the stuff going on in that area nowadays, it should be easy to guess why. But let's not be prejudiced. People are both good and evil, whether it be Arab, non-Arab, male, female, black, white, brown, yellow, pink or whatever. God knows your intentions, and can make your intentions manifest to everyone. Be sincere in righteousness.

Qur'an 20080414

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

21. Mention one of 'Ad's brethren: behold, he warned his people about the winding sand-tracts. But there have warners before him, and after him: "Worship you none other than Allah; truly I fear for you the Penalty of a Mighty Day."

22. They said, "Hast thou come to turn us aside from our gods? Then bring upon us that with which thou dost threaten us, if thou art telling the truth!"

23. He said, "The knowledge is only with Allah. I proclaim to you the mission with which I have been sent, but I see that you are a people in ignorance!"

24. Then when they saw it, a cloud traversing the sky, coming to meet their valleys, they said, "This cloud will bring us rain!" Nay, it is what you were asking to be hastened: a wind wherein is a Grievous Penalty!

25. Everything will it destroy by the command of its Lord! Then by the morning they... nothing was to be seen but their houses! Thus do We recompense those given to sin!

26. And We had firmly established them in a power which We have not given to you, and We had endowed them with hearing, seeing, heart and intellect: but of no profit to them were their hearing, seeing, heart and intellect when they went on rejecting the Signs of Allah. And they were encircled by that which they used to mock at!

Winding sand-tracts 46:21-26
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Many people guess that the 'Ad people flourished some time between Sodom and Gomorrah, and the people of Moses, in the vicinity of the Arabian peninsula. The prophet who was assigned to their case was the prophet Hud. Apparently, he saw evidence of climactic change in the waveforms carved out by the wind in the desert sand. The 'Ad were polytheists, so the prophet Hud warned them that God was ready to give them reckoning for their bad faith.

Just like everyone else, the 'Ad told the prophet Hud to "bring it on". The 'Ad were wiped out by a hurricane. None of the skills and powers that they had did them any good, because they thought it more important to reject God. Sad to say, verse 21 states that this is a general human trait, and the 'Ad was one of many populations to be wiped out for the same reason.

Qur'an 20080412

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

2. The revelation of the Book is from Allah, the Exalted in Power, full of Wisdom.

3. We created not the heavens and the earth, and all between them but for just ends, and for a term appointed. But those who reject Faith turn away from that whereof they are warned.

4. Say, "Do you see what it is you invoke besides Allah? Show me what it is they have created on earth, or have they a share in the heavens? Bring me a Book before this, or any remnant of knowledge, if you are telling the truth!"

5. And who is more astray than one who invokes, besides Allah, such as will not answer him on the Day of Judgment, and who are unconscious of their call?

6. And when mankind are gathered together, they will be hostile to them, and reject their worship.

7. When Our Clear Signs are rehearsed to them, the unbelievers say of the Truth when it comes to them, "This is nothing but evident sorcery!"

8. Or do they say, "He has forged it"? Say, "Had I forged it, then can you obtain nothing for me from Allah. God knows best whereof you talk! Enough is God for a witness between me and you! And God is Oft-Forgiving, most Merciful."

9. Say, "I am no bringer of new-fangled doctrine among the messengers, nor do I know what will be done with me, or with you. I follow that which is revealed to me by inspiration. I am but a Warner, open and clear."

10. Say, "Don't you see? If this be from Allah, and you reject it, and a witness from among the Children of Israel testifies to its similarity, and has believed while you are arrogant. Truly, Allah guides not a people unjust."

Winding sand-tracts 46:2-10
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Do you see what it is you invoke besides Allah? Show me what it is they have created on earth, or have they a share in the heavens? Bring me a Book before this, or any remnant of knowledge, if you are telling the truth!

Had I forged it, then can you obtain nothing for me from Allah. God knows best whereof you talk! Enough is God for a witness between me and you! And God is Oft-Forgiving, most Merciful.

I am no bringer of new-fangled doctrine among the messengers, nor do I know what will be done with me, or with you. I follow that which is revealed to me by inspiration. I am but a Warner, open and clear.

Don't you see? If this be from Allah, and you reject it, and a witness from among the Children of Israel testifies to its similarity, and has believed while you are arrogant. Truly, Allah guides not a people unjust.

Ya Allah, please free me and my wife of the guilt of worshipping others besides You. We are both absolutely dependant on You, and whatever advantage or power we have in this world is due to Your kindness and mercy to us.

Ya Allah, please free me and my wife of the guilt of being worshipped as idols. We are average people, from average families. We live in this world due to Your kindness and mercy to us, and we shall grow old, and die. Please grant us happiness and security in this life, and the Hereafter. Please bless our work, may our work please You.

Qur'an 20080410

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

22. Allah created the heavens and the earth for just ends, and in order that each soul may find the recompense of what it has earned, and none of them be wronged.

23. Then seest thou such a one that takes as his god his own vain desire? Allah has knowingly left him astray, and sealed his hearing and his heart, and put a cover on his sight. Who then, will guide him after Allah? Will you not then receive admonition?

24. And they say, "What is there but the life of this world? We shall die and we live, and nothing but time can destroy us." But of that they have no knowledge: they merely conjecture.

25. And when Our Clear Signs are rehearsed to them, their argument is nothing but this: they say, "Bring our forefathers, if what you say is true!"

26. Say, "It is Allah who gives you life, then gives you death. Then God will gather you together for the Day of Judgment about which there is no doubt." But most men do not understand.

The kneeling down 45:22-26
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It is Allah who gives you life, then gives you death. Then God will gather you together for the Day of Judgment about which there is no doubt.

Desire. All religions seem to address the concept of desire. Even atheism, as a religion, recognizes desire. Desire can itself be a religion for some people, if all they care about is their desire. Desire becomes all-consuming, it influences all their judgments and decisions. Their goal in life is to let their desires run wild and free.

That is the intent of God, is to leave these people clueless to everything else, and increase in transgressions until their transgressions pile up, and become monsters. When the consequences of their actions catch up to them, these consequences will be the size of monsters.

"What consequences?" some say. "What if I die first?" Again, humans have no grasp of time. Maybe 70 years of human life, humans has no evidence that their lives are over, when compared to millions of years. But most people want something NOW. So how can these people ever understand consequences?

Qur'an 20080401

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

78. Verily We have brought the Truth to you, but most of you have a hatred for Truth.

79. What? Have they settled some plan? But it is We who settle things.

80. Or do they think that We hear not their secrets, and their private counsels? Indeed! And Our messengers are by them, to record.

81. Say, "If the Most Gracious had a son, I would be first to worship."

The Gold Adornments 43:78-81
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If the Most Gracious had a son, I would be first to worship.

People don't want to change themselves, and their habits. That is why most people hate the truth.

One of the most distinct differences between Islam and Christianity is that Islam does not recognize God as having any offspring. Here's the logic: being immortal, God does not need children.

Qur'an 20080323

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

20. To any that desires the tilth of the Hereafter, We give increase in his tilth, and to any that desires the tilth of this world, We grant somewhat thereof, but he has no share or lot in the Hereafter.

21. What! Have they partners who have established for them some religion without the permission of Allah? Had it not been for the Decree of Judgement, the matter would have been decided between them. But verily the wrongdoers will have a grievous Penalty.

22. Thou will see the wrongdoers in fearon account of what they have earned, and that must fall on them. But those who believe, and work righteous deeds will be in the luxurious meads of the Garden. They shall have from their Lord, all that they wish for. That will indeed be the magnificent bounty.

23. That is whereof Allah gives Glad Tidings to God's servants who believe and do righteous deeds. Say, "No reward do I ask of you for this except the love of those near of kin." And if anyone earns any good, We shall give him an increase in good thereof, for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, most Ready to Appreciate.

24. What! Do they say, "He has forged a falsehood against Allah?" But if Allah willed, God could seal up thy heart, and Allah blots out vanity, and proves the Truth by God's Words, for God knows well the secrets of all hearts.

25. God is the One who accepts repentance from God's servants, and forgives sins,and God knows all that you do.

Consultation 42:20-25
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No reward do I ask of you for this except the love of those near of kin.

I love and miss my parents, and my wife Claudia. I have no children- my whole life has been about music: Allah has given me a lot of music. The music, as with all inspiration, could be taken away by Allah at any given moment.

All praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Multiverse.

Qur'an 20080322

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

14. And they became divided only after knowledge had reached them, through selfish envy as between themselves. Had it not been for a Word that went forth before from thy Lord to a term appointed, the matter would have been settled between them. But truly those who have inherited the Book after them are in suspicious doubt concerning it.

15. Now then for that, call and stand steadfast as thou are commanded, nor follow thou their vain desires but say, "I believe in the Book which Allah has sent down, and I am commanded to judge justly between you. Allah is our Lord and your Lord: for us our deeds, and for you for your deeds. There is no contention between us and you. Allah will bring us together, and to God is Final Goal."

16. But those who dispute concerning Allah after God had been accepted, futile is their dispute in the sight of their Lord. On them is Wrath, and for them will be a Penalty Terrible.

17. It is Allah Who has sent down the Book in Truth, and the Balance: and what will make thee realise that the Hour is close at hand?

18. Only those wish to hasten it who believe not in it. Those who believe hold it in awe, and know that it is the Truth. Behold, verily those that dispute concerning the Hour are far astray.

Consultation 42:14-18
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I believe in the Book which Allah has sent down, and I am commanded to judge justly between you. Allah is our Lord and your Lord: for us our deeds, and for you for your deeds. There is no contention between us and you. Allah will bring us together, and to God is Final Goal.

This discussion is for believers in God only.

Knowledge of God is prime Treasure, therefore the faithful are in competition with each other over this Treasure. However, God is the one who grants Knowledge, and the Treasure thereof, and it is not an act of faith to be jealous of others who possess more knowledge. Are you one to determine who and what God gives to God's servants? Take the case of Abel and Cain: God accepted the faith of one brother, and the other became jealous, and murdered his own brother. Then he sank even lower in the esteem of God. We must guard our emotions! Knowledge that is granted by God is to be used by specific servants for specific chores: a worker ant cannot do the duties of a queen!

We must guard our emotions! We are all just one step away from hell, and our emotions can take us there in a heartbeat, for all the acts of "faith" that we do, the intentions that we have can be corrupted by our emotions. Sure, our emotions can exalt us, but only if our feelings are accepted by God. An athiest who performs a single act of sincere faith is in a better position in the sight of God than one who spends his life performing acts of "faith" that are corrupted by his intentions, and his emotions. Better to temper those feelings with intelligence, patience and wisdom, in order to present a purer faith to God. Then maybe God will give you a present which no one else has. God is the one Who controls cosmic Balance: the thing we see that we desire in another person costs that person in an aspect that we don't see. Humans have a tendency to be selfish! Are we to assume that we are equal in rank to the human beings appointed as prophets, mentioned in the Book of God? The last one (peace be upon him) passed away over 1300 years ago!

Sometimes I fall into agony over the futility of human beings, and over my own humanity. But that is the Trial- to get to the Garden in the best manner. Trying to speed up the Game is cheating- yes, it is hard to play by the rules, but it is not our Game. God is the One who knows when Time is up. Trying to speed up the Game is an act of faithlessness. Verse 42:14 is not just a statement, but also a warning from God for us not to divide the faithful. Verse 42:17 is a statement as well as a question: Time IS nearly up. God is the Timekeeper, and the Timebender.

Qur'an 20080319

In the name of Allah, most Gracious,most Merciful.

52. Say, "See you, if this IS from Allah, and yet do you reject it? Who is more astray than one who is in a schism, far?"

53. Soon will We show them Our Signs in the regions, and in their own souls, until it becomes manifest to them that this is the Truth. Is it not enough that thy Lord is witness to all things?

54. Ah indeed! Are they in doubt concerning the Meeting with their Lord? Ah indeed! It is God that does encompass all things!

Expounded 41:52-54
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See you, if this IS from Allah, and yet do you reject it? Who is more astray than one who is in a schism, far?

Qur'an 20080315

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

2. A revelation from the most Gracious, most Merciful.

3. A Book, from which the verses are explained in detail- a Qur'an in Arabic, for people who understand.

4. Giving Good News and Admonition. Yet most of them turn away, and so they hear not.

5. They say, "Our hearts are under veils from that to which thou dost invite us, and in our ears is a deafness, and between us and thee is a screen. So, you do yours, we'll do ours".

6. Say thou, "I am but a man like you. It is revealed to me by inspiration that your God is One God. So stand true to God, and ask for God's forgiveness." And woe to those who join gods with Allah.

7. Those who practise not regular charity, and even deny the Hereafter.

8. For those who believe, and work deeds of righteousness, is a reward that will never fail.

9. Say,"Is it that you deny God who created the earth in 2 Days? And do you join equals with God? God is the Lord of the worlds."

10. "God set on that mountains standing firm, high above it, and bestowed blessings on the earth, and measured therein all things to give them nourishment in due proportion, in 4 Days, in accordance with those who seek."

11. Moreover, God comprehended in God's design the sky, and it had been smoke. God said to it and the earth, "Come you together, willingly or unwillingly." They said, "We do come, in willing obedience."

12. So God completed them as 7 firmaments in 2 Days, and God assigned to each heaven its duty and command. And We adorned the lower heaven with lights, and with guard. Such is the Decree of the Exalted in Might, Full of Knowledge.

13. But if they turn away, say thou, "I have warned you of a stunning Punishment, like that of the 'Ad, and the Thamud!"

Expounded 41:2-13
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I am but a man like you. It is revealed to me by inspiration that your God is One God. So stand true to God, and ask for God's forgiveness.

Is it that you deny God who created the earth in 2 Days? And do you join equals with God? God is the Lord of the worlds.

God set on that mountains standing firm, high above it, and bestowed blessings on the earth, and measured therein all things to give them nourishment in due proportion, in 4 Days, in accordance with those who seek.

I have warned you of a stunning Punishment, like that of the 'Ad, and the Thamud!

The Qur'an is so dense, most people think they are not getting enough information, but actually they are getting too much information. Language too, is part of the key- an Arabic Qur'an, with the prophet Muhammad (peace be on him) being an Arab, whose mission was the Arabs, which pertains all the stuff going on in that area nowadays. Too bad it is not the Plan of God to save everybody. The evidence of that is the apathy of most people regarding piety, and their indulgence in material affairs. So be it. No, it is not a blessing.

Being the Lord of the Worlds means being the Lord of the Multiverse. The universe itself is but one world, there are an infinite number of different times and spaces. Black holes, for instance. Another example is, what would have happened toyou if your father had married someone else before you were born? Perhaps you would still have been born, but it is unlikely that you would have the same life. you would say that it's just probability, but probability is real, because it is mathematics. People call it "luck", but it is mathematics. Then you might say, "I am because I am here today!" But you weren't when your father got married. Then God created the circumstance that was you. The Probability of God is One.
Athiests might say that the probability of God is zero, but that would only be possible if the topic of God had never ever been brought up.

Time distortion is an easy game for God to play. Believers of the Faith know that God created the heavens and the earth in 6 Days. First of, the Qur'an states that a Day in God's time is 1,000 years in human time. The earth spins on its axis for 1 revolution, let's call it a day. We have such small minds! Being human, sometimes I get weak and impatient, and wish that I can kick some ass now, but real Power can control time. In the beginning, there probably wasn't any axis to spin on, just a lot of gas. All that gas must occupy a greater amount of space, perhaps 1,000 x 365 times as much. The universe itself spins on an axis... perhaps that is God's Day? As for impatience, we all know that when things happen, they can happen in microseconds. Like a nuclear bomb.

Anyway, verse 9 is 2 Days. Verse 10 is 4 Days. 2 + 4 = 6 Days. Verse 11 and 12 are "also" clauses- God also made the sky at the same time. God fit those 2 Days within the 6 Days. Infinite Power creates time distortion! Note that God speaks of adorning the lower heaven with lights, and with guard. Meaning that we can't see past the stars of a universe, with no access to the Multiverse.

Lastly, the people of 'Ad were wiped out by a hurricane or tornado, and the people of Thamud were wiped out by an earthquake.

Qur'an 20080312

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

63. Thus are deluded those who are wont to reject the Signs of Allah.

64. It is Allah who has made for you the earth as a resting place, and the sky as a canopy, and has given you shape, and made your shapes beautiful, and has provided for you Sustenance, of things pure and good. Such is Allah your Lord. So Glory to Allah, the Lord of the Worlds.

65. God is the Living: there is no god but God. Call upon God, giving God sincere devotion. Praise be to Allah, Lord of the Worlds!

66. Say, "I have been forbidden to invoke those whom you invoke besides Allah, seeing that the Clear Signs have come to me from my Lord. And I have been commanded to bow to the Lord of the Worlds!"

Forgiver 40:63-66
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I have been forbidden to invoke those whom you invoke besides Allah, seeing that the Clear Signs have come to me from my Lord. And I have been commanded to bow to the Lord of the Worlds!

That's right. No idols for me. I bear witness that Allah is the Only God, and that Muhammad is God's messenger. I am in no position to believe anything else. Allah gave me all this music, for one- the voices of dead women, only Allah can raise the dead. The music is a perpetual thing for me. Skepticism is beyond me.

Qur'an 20080302

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

61. But Allah will deliver the righteous to their place of salvation: no evil shall touch them, nor shall they grieve.

62. Allah is the Creator of all things, and God is the Guardian and Disposer of all affairs.

63. To God belong the keys of the heavens and the earth, and those who reject the Signs of Allah- it is they who will be in loss.

64. Say, "Is it someone other than Allah that you order me to worship, O you ignorant ones?"

Crowds 39:61-64
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------

Is it someone other than Allah that you order me to worship, O you ignorant ones?

I would like to thank Allah for the Qur'an, the music, for all the knowledge and bounty, for being my Saviour and my only Friend during the times of darkest danger.

I would like to thank the prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) for being my leader, and distracting others from paying too much attention to me.

I would like to thank my wife Claudia for her love, and for marrying me.

I would like to thank my parents for their love and patience.

I would like to thank my friends and family and the righteous people at the masjid.

I would like to thank Phantom for being the best kitty in the world.

Qur'an 20080301

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

45. When Allah, the One and Only, is mentioned, the hearts of those who believe not in the Hereafter are filled with disgust and horror, but when gods other than God are mentioned, behold they are filled with joy!

46. Say, "O Allah! Creator of the heavens and the earth! Knower of all that is hidden and open! It is Thou that will judge between Thy servants in those matters in which they have differed."

47. Even if the wrongdoers had all that there is on earth, and as much more, would they offer it for ransom from the pain of the Penalty on the Day of Judgement, but something will confront them from Allah which they could never have counted upon!

48. For the evils of their deeds will confront them, and they will be encircled by that which they used to mock at!

49. Now when trouble touches man, he cries to Us: but when We bestow a favor upon him as from Ourselves, he says, "This has been given to me because of a certain knowledge." Nay, but this is a trial, but most of them understand not!

50. Thus did those before them say! But all that they did was of no profit to them.

51. Nay, the evil results of their deeds overtook them, and the wrongdoers of this- the evil results of their deeds will soon overtake them, and they will never be able to frustrate!

Crowds 39:45-51
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O Allah! Creator of the heavens and the earth! Knower of all that is hidden and open! It is Thou that will judge between Thy servants in those matters in which they have differed.

When it comes to spiritual balance, God has always maintained the same agenda- God will get you when and where you don't expect it. One day, all of a sudden, you will be surrounded.

Verse 48 states that the evils of our deeds will confront us. That is why we are taken by surprise, because we never expected our deeds as evil. Arrogance! Or perhaps the evil is that we just didn't care. As usual, we don't care until we get into trouble.

What is the trial? We are being tried for what we do with the things and the situations we are given. The goal is to please God.

Qur'an 20080227

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

139. So also was Jonah among those sent.

140. When he ran away to the ship laden.

141. He cast lots, and he was condemned.

142. Then the big Fish did swallow him, and he had done acts worthy of blame.

143. Had it not been that he had glorified Allah,

144. He wsould certainly have remained inside the Fish till the day of Resurrection.

145. But We cast him forth on the shore in a state of sickness.

146. And We caused to grow over him, a spreading plant of the gourd kind.

147. And We sent him to a hundred thousand or more.

148. And they believed, so We permitted them to enjoy for a while.

149. Now ask then their opinion, is it that thy Lord has daughters, and they have sons?

150. Or that We created the angels female, and they are witnesses?

Those ranged in ranks 37:139-150
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Is it that thy Lord has daughters, and you have sons?

Did God create the angels female, and you are witnesses?

Qur'an 20080222

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

12. Truly does thou marvel, while they ridicule.

13. And when they are admonished, pay no heed,

14. And when they see a Sign, turn it into mockery,

15. And say, "This is nothing but evident sorcery!"

16. "What? When we die, and become dust and bones, shall we be raised up?"

17. "And also our fathers of old?"

18. Say, "Yea, and you shall then be humiliated."

19. Then it will be a single cry, and behold, they will begin to to see!

20. They will say, "Ah! Woe is us! This is the Day of Judgment!"

21. This is the Day of Sorting Out, whose Truth you denied!


Those ranged in ranks 37:12-21
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Yea, and you shall then be humiliated.

Today, I have been observing the Wealth of Allah. Not just massive amounts of money, food and property, but also the natural and supernatural abundance. I ask myself, "Is this what the greedy, the drunk and the arrogant have been wanting to see all this while?" The point is, they REFUSE to see it. I also found it odd that the skeptical would believe in magic and superstition over God. So I just took what was given to me this day, and continued my journey.

9:55 pm Friday, February 22, 2008: They still don't see it.

Some quotes I heard over the brainwaves:

"I was only joking!"
"I'm fucked up, I was just messing around!"
"I was just having fun."
"Don't take it personally, I wasn't being serious!"
"There's nothing wrong with a bit of laughter!"

Qur'an 20080220

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

74. Yet they take gods other than Allah, that they might be helped!

75. They have not the power to help them, but they will be brought up as a troop.

76. Let not their speech then grieve thee. Verily, We know what they hide as well as what they disclose.

77. Does not man see that it is We who created him from sperm? Yet behold! He is an open adversary!

78. And he makes comparisons for Us, and forgets his own creation. He says, "Who can give life to bones, and decomposed ones?"

79. Say, "God will give them life, Who created them the first time! For God is well-versed in every kind of creation!"

80. "The same Who produces for you fire out of the green tree, when behold! You kindle therewith!"

81. "Is not God Who created the heavens and the earth, able to create the like thereof?" Yea, indeed! For God is the Creator Supreme, of skill and knowledge!

82. Verily, when God intends a thing, God's Command is "Be!" and it is.

83. So glory to God in Whose hands is the dominion of all things, and to God will you all be brought back.

Ya Sin 36:74-83
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God will give them life, Who created them the first time! For God is well-versed in every kind of creation!

The same Who produces for you fire out of the green tree, when behold! You kindle therewith!

Is not God Who created the heavens and the earth, able to create the like thereof?

We humans all have humble beginnings. As children we were helpless and dependent on our parents, in business we are dependent on much personal effort and capital. Then as we grow older and stronger, humans forget their lowly beginnings, and say and do things that are arrogant. Nothing mortal lasts forever! Even the arrogant know that- People grow weak and die, business becomes obsolete and fails. I sometimes wonder if it is a genetic trait for us humans to forget our weakness, and become arrogant. It is a blessing indeed to be constantly aware of our smallness, and have that reflect in our words and actions.

Ya Allah! Please protect my humility!

Qur'an 20080216

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

38. Verily Allah knows the hidden things of the heavens and the earth: verily God has full knowledge of all that is in hearts.

39. God it is that has made you inheritors in the earth: if then, any do reject, their rejection against themselves: their rejection but adds to the odium for the unbelievers in the sight of their Lord: their rejection but adds to undoing.

40. Say, "Have you seen 'partners' of yours whom you call upon besides Allah? Show me what it is they have created in the earth. Or have they a share in the heavens?" Or have We given them a Book from which they clarify? Nay, the wrongdoers promise each other nothing but delusions.

The Originator of Creation 35:38-40
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Have you seen 'partners' of yours whom you call upon besides Allah? Show me what it is they have created in the earth. Or have they a share in the heavens?

If these people don't believe in God, then who is it they worship (besides themselves)? Or if these people believe that they are better than God, who is it that they call upon for help? Or if these people are just clueless, who is it they give credit to besides God?

Or is it that these people ignore God, because they only care about their own lusts and pleasures? Therefore do they only worship what stimulates their lusts and pleasures? If you were to tickle these people, and give them pleasure, would they worship you? Do they worship lovers and prostitutes? Do they worship rubber dolls and sex toys? Do they worship drugs and booze?

Do these people worship what they create? Are they so proud of what they create, that they boost their own pride with acts of worship/self-worship? Do these people worship what other people have created? Do they have a deal with these people to worship what they create? Do they worship what other people create because other people have been worshiping it? What do these creations do, that they worship them?

Do these people worship the things besides God that helped them achieve social status, and power? Is it the public eye that they worship? Is it their buddies that they worship? Do they have a deal to worship each other? Do they worship what other people tell them to worship? Is it other people that they worship?

Is it a thing that these people worship? Do they save money over the years to buy that thing so that they could worship it? Would they worship that thing anyway, if they could not afford to buy it? What does the thing do, that they worship it?

Is it money that these people worship? If they made lots of money, would they still worship money? If they lost all their money, would they still worship money? Do they spend money worshiping money? If they were too sick or too old to enjoy money, would they still worship money? If somebody gave them lots of money, would they worship that person? Is it the things money buys, that they worship? So, these people worship things? What does the thing do, that they worship it?

It's a lot less confusing for me to only worship Allah, and to remain constant in my worship of Allah so that I don't lapse into confusion.

Qur'an 20080209

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

34. Never did We send a Warner to a population but the wealthy ones among them said, "We believe not in that with which you have been sent."

35. They said,"We have more in wealth and in sons, and we cannot be punished."

36. Say, "Verily my Lord enlarges and restricts the Provision to whom God pleases, but most men understand not."

37. It is not your wealth nor your sons that will bring you nearer to Us in degree: but only those who believe and work righteousness- these are the ones for whom there is a multiplied Reward for their deeds, while secure they are in dwellings on high!

38. Those who strive against Our Signs, to frustrate them, will be given over into Punishment.

39. Say, "Verily my Lord enlarges and restricts the Sustenance to such of God's servants as God pleases: and nothing do you spend in the least but God replaces it: for God is the Best of those who grant Sustenance."

Sheba 34:34-39
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Verily my Lord enlarges and restricts the Provision to whom God pleases, but most men understand not.

Verily my Lord enlarges and restricts the Sustenance to such of God's servants as God pleases: and nothing do you spend in the least but God replaces it: for God is the Best of those who grant Sustenance.

Undoubtedly, most people crave wealth, because they relate to the stuff and "security" that it brings. We all know that you can't take all that stuff with you when you die. Some people build mausoleums, which are great for grave robbers. As for security, you can make a lot of money buying and selling houses. Then you spend that money building more houses, but then nobody can afford to buy any of it. Broke!

Whether it's houses or whatever, having all that money can make you spend (invest) too much of it, and become broke. Sometimes it doesn't matter how cautious, or responsible you are. That's because humans are not self-sufficient. People rely on others to survive, moreover people rely on God. How about a nice blizzard to wipe out that wheat harvest. Or a father getting brain damage from a stroke, leaving sons fighting and killing each other for the family business.

God is the great Provider. Maybe you built your bakery on a microscopic thermal fissure that stimulates the dough to rise nice and fluffy. Or maybe one day you were shooting at some food, and up through the ground comes a bubblin' crude.

What matters to God is correctness of faith, and good deeds. From those will God determine our sustenance, not just in this life , but also in the hereafter. Those who spend their wealth to defy God, and commit evil, will be delivered their Punishment. Some of may get a time break, so that they can pile up their penalty. And it usually is what you accumulate, that becomes your penalty. It could be your children. It could be that nice car which you backed up on your child. And that doesn't include what's coming in the Hereafter!

Let's not be fooled by appearances, either. Some of the weathiest people in the world wear jeans and t-shirts. Some hang out with bums. Some were bums. Whatever, again it is God who determines our sustenance.

Qur'an 20080208

In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful.

27. Say: "Show me those who you have joined with God as partners: by no means. Nay, God is Allah, the Exalted in Power, the Wise."

28. We have not sent thee but as a universalist to men, giving them glad tidings, and warning them, but most men understand not.

29. They say,"When is this promise, if you are telling the truth?"

30. Say: "The appointment to you is for a Day, which you cannot put back for an hour, nor put forward."

Sheba 34:27-30
___________________________________________________________

Show me those who you have joined with God as partners: by no means. Nay, God is Allah, the Exalted in Power, the Wise.

The appointment to you is for a Day, which you cannot put back for an hour, nor put forward.

The Gaza Strip

The Gaza Strip is unusual in being a densely settled area not recognized as a de jure part of any extant country.

From the beginning, the area's chief economic and social problem was the presence of large numbers of Palestinian Arab refugees living in extreme poverty in squalid camps. The Egyptian government did not consider the area part of Egypt and did not allow the refugees to become Egyptian citizens or to migrate to Egypt or to other Arab countries where they might be integrated into the population. Israel did not allow them to return to their former homes or to receive compensation for their loss of property.

Living conditions in the Gaza Strip are typically poor because of its dense and rapidly increasing population (the area's growth rate is one of the highest in the world); inadequate water, sewage, and electrical services; and high rates of unemployment.

In politically stable times, as much as one-tenth of the Palestinian population travels daily to Israel (where they are not allowed to stay overnight) to work in menial jobs. Political tension and outbreaks of violence have often led Israeli authorities to close the border for extended periods, putting many Palestinians out
of work.

(Encyclopaedia Brittanica 2007)

Qur'an 20080207

In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

3. The unbelievers say, "Never to us will come the Hour." Say, "Nay! But most surely by my Lord, it will come upon you- by God who knows the unseen- from Whom is not hidden the least little atom in the heavens or on earth: nor is there anything less than that, or greater, but is in a Record Perspicuous."

4 That God may reward those who believe and work deeds of righteousness: for such is Forgiveness, and a Sustenance most Generous.

5. But those who strive against Our Signs, to frustrate them- for such will be a Penalty- a Punishment most humiliating.

6. And those to whom Knowledge has come see that this sent down to thee from thy Lord- that is the Truth, and that it guides to the Path of the Exalted, Worthy of all praise.

Sheba 34:3-6
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Nay! But most surely by my Lord, it will come upon you- by God who knows the unseen- from Whom is not hidden the least little atom in the heavens or on earth: nor is there anything less than that, or greater, but is in a Record Perspicuous.

This revelation camedown approximately 615 AD. Note that God speaks of an atomized universe.