Quran Talk

Inheritance of Orphans

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God in the Quran puts a lot of emphasis on the rights of orphans. And this is representative of a Quranic society where the individuals with the least say the smallest voices and the least protected are disproportionately emphasized in the Quran to make sure that their rights are not violated and that they are not taken advantage of or victimized. 

 

The ones in society with the smallest voice the least protected

 

Mahatma Ghandi who said “A nation's greatness is measured by how it treats its weakest members.”

 

What is the definition of orphan:

 

Someone who doesn’t have a mother or father

 

4:3 marrying the mothers of orphans 

 

Merriam Webster: one deprived of some protection or advantage

 

Helping children who do not have a bread earner / protector 

 

But what about the children of the future who are not even born yet?

 

They do not have a mom or dad 

 

They have no say 

 

Parents and schools 

 

No parent guardian to speak on the child’s behalf can easily be taken advantage of

 

So how do the decisions we make impact the orphans..

 

Yet the decisions we make in our life can have a direct impact on their well being

 

[89:15] When the human being is tested by his Lord, through blessings and joy, he says, "My Lord is generous towards me." [89:16] But if He tests him through reduction in provisions, he says, "My Lord is humiliating me!" [89:17] Wrong! It is you who brought it on yourselves by not regarding the orphan. [89:18] And not advocating charity towards the poor. [89:19] And consuming the inheritance of helpless orphans. [89:20] And loving the money too much.

 

How many people would this apply to 

 

The Earth is an inheritance for future generations

 

[7:100] Does it ever occur to those who inherit the earth after previous generations that, if we will, we can punish them for their sins, and seal their hearts, causing them to turn deaf?

 

[10:14] Then we made you inheritors of the earth after them, to see how you will do.

 

[6:165] He is the One who made you inheritors of the earth, and He raised some of you above others in rank, in order to test you in accordance with what He has given you. Surely, your Lord is efficient in enforcing retribution, and He is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

 

Future generations - Do not roam the earth corruptingly  

 

[2:204] Among the people, one may impress you with his utterances concerning this life, and may even call upon GOD to witness his innermost thoughts, while he is a most ardent opponent. [2:205] As soon as he leaves, he roams the earth corruptingly, destroying properties and lives. GOD does not love corruption.

 

[7:74] "Recall that He made you inheritors after `Ad, and established you on earth, building mansions in its valleys, and carving homes from its mountains. You shall remember GOD's blessings, and do not roam the earth corruptingly.”

 

[25:63] The worshipers of the Most Gracious are those who tread the earth gently, and when the ignorant speak to them, they only utter peace.

 

Environmentalism 

 

[30:41] Disasters have spread throughout the land and sea, because of what the people have committed. He thus lets them taste the consequences of some of their works, that they may return (to the right works).

 

 

"The curious task of economics is to demonstrate to men how little they really know about what they imagine they can design.” Frederick Hayek 

 

Economics 

 

$22 trillion dollars of public debt

Each child in America is born with $62k of public debt

not included unfunded liabilities 

 

Leave the place nicer than you started

 

[26:84] "Let the example I set for the future generations be a good one.

 

Gym retract your weights

 

Person wants to help the poor but not willing to help his parents with the dishes 

 

Let everyone sweep in front of his own door, and the whole world will be clean. - Johann Wolfgang von Goethe

 

[4:85] Whoever mediates a good deed receives a share of the credit thereof, and whoever mediates an evil work, incurs a share thereof. GOD controls all things.

 

[36:12] We will certainly revive the dead, and we have recorded everything they have done in this life, as well as the consequences that continue after their death. Everything we have counted in a profound record.

 

[18:49] The record will be shown, and you will see the guilty fearful of its contents. They will say, "Woe to us. How come this book leaves nothing, small or large, without counting it?" They will find everything they had done brought forth. Your Lord is never unjust towards anyone.

Quran Capitalism and Inequality - Part 2

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Why is it that despite in aggregate people’s economic situation has gotten better than it was years ago, people feel ever more disenfranchised than they have in the past?

Children are kind of micro examples of adults. The challenges and issues they deal with are elementary examples of how we are as adults.

They are kind of digestible simplified representations of ourselves

Kind of like Aesop Fables - little lessons for us to be more conscientious of our own behavior

So I learn a lot about myself from my kids - amazing little life lessons

So the other day I surprised my daughter after school and told her that we were going to go rock climbing

She was excited so we head over

When we park the car she tells me she wants to get rock climbing shoes

At first I explain that they don’t have her size and she is better off using her tennis shoes but she is getting upset so I said sure if you prefer to have rock climbing shoes it is up to you

Then when we get to the floor she says that she wants her own chalk bag

Then she says that she wants to get dinner across the street at this Vietnamese restaurant

Then she says after dinner she wants to get Boba

I finally said no.

Then she said she didn’t want to climb anymore so after 15 minutes we changed our shoes packed up and just went home

And we had a conversation

She was happy to go rock climbing rather than going home, but ended up more upset because of some other factor rather than being appreciative that she was able to go rock climbing

Because she was unappreciative now she stopped climbing and also we didn’t go out to dinner

Be appreciative for we have rather than being unappreciative for what we don’t have

Dan Ariely

Weekend in Rome all-expense paid - flight, hotel, breakfast

Weekend in Paris all-expense paid - flight, hotel, breakfast (no coffee)

We put a disproportionate value on things that should have little value and when we do this we impact our overall happiness

Rock climbing in itself for my daughter should = happiness

Rock climbing without shoes, chalk bag, Vietnamese food, boba = unhappy

We get fixated on what others have and this impacts our own happiness

People tend to compare themselves upwards

As society gets richer as a whole the distribution between the richest and the poorest will naturally be increased

[3:196] Do not be impressed by the apparent success of disbelievers. [3:197] They only enjoy temporarily, then end up in Hell; what a miserable destiny!

God’s System

[6:44] When they thus disregard the message given to them, we open for them the gates of everything. Then, just as they rejoice in what was given to them, we punish them suddenly; they become utterly stunned. * [6:45] The wicked are thus annihilated. Praise be to GOD, Lord of the universe.

*6:44 Before the guilty are thrown out the window, they are taken up to a high floor.

Example of Qaroon

[28:76] Qãroon (the slave driver) was one of Moses' people who betrayed them and oppressed them. We gave him so many treasures that the keys thereof were almost too heavy for the strongest band. His people said to him, "Do not be so arrogant; GOD does not love those who are arrogant. [28:77] "Use the provisions bestowed upon you by GOD to seek the abode of the Hereafter, without neglecting your share in this world. Be charitable, as GOD has been charitable towards you. Do not keep on corrupting the earth. GOD does not love the corruptors." [28:78] He said, "I attained all this because of my own cleverness." Did he not realize that GOD had annihilated before him generations that were much stronger than he, and greater in number? The (annihilated) transgressors were not asked about their crimes.

[28:79] One day, he came out to his people in full splendor. Those who preferred this worldly life said, "Oh, we wish that we possess what Qãroon has attained. Indeed, he is very fortunate."

The Real Wealth

[28:80] As for those who were blessed with knowledge, they said, "Woe to you, GOD's recompense is far better for those who believe and lead a righteous life." None attains this except the steadfast.

The Tyrants' Inevitable Fate

[28:81] We then caused the earth to swallow him and his mansion. No army could have helped him against GOD; he was not destined to be a winner. [28:82] Those who were envious of him the day before said, "Now we realize that GOD is the One who provides for whomever He chooses from among His servants, and withholds. If it were not for GOD's grace towards us, He could have caused the earth to swallow us too. We now realize that the disbelievers never succeed.”

[57:20] Know that this worldly life is no more than play and games, and boasting among you, and hoarding of money and children. It is like abundant rain that produces plants and pleases the disbelievers. But then the plants turn into useless hay, and are blown away by the wind. In the Hereafter there is either severe retribution, or forgiveness from GOD and approval. This worldly life is no more than a temporary illusion.

God’s system is that we are of different ranks

[43:32] Are they the ones who assign your Lord's mercy? We have assigned their shares in this life, raising some of them above others in ranks, in order to let them serve one another. The mercy from your Lord is far better than any material they may hoard.

Be appreciative for what we have not unappreciative for what we don’t have

Society is like an organism we each have a function to serve.

Tree would not be so foolish for it’s branches to fight among itself 

[17:21] Note how we preferred some people above others (in this life). The differences in the Hereafter are far greater and far more significant.

Run your own race

Matthew 25:14-30 English Standard Version (ESV)

The Parable of the Talents

14 “For it will be like a man going on a journey, who called his servants and entrusted to them his property. 15 To one he gave five talents, to another two, to another one, to each according to his ability. Then he went away. 

16 He who had received the five talents went at once and traded with them, and he made five talents more. 17 So also he who had the two talents made two talents more. 18 But he who had received the one talent went and dug in the ground and hid his master's money. 

19 Now after a long time the master of those servants came and settled accounts with them. 20 And he who had received the five talents came forward, bringing five talents more, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me five talents; here, I have made five talents more.’ 21 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 

22 And he who had the two talents came forward, saying, ‘Master, you delivered to me two talents; here, I have made two talents more.’ 23 His master said to him, ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. You have been faithful over a little; I will set you over much. Enter into the joy of your master.’ 

24 He who had received the one talent came forward, saying, ‘Master, I knew you to be a hard man, reaping where you did not sow, and gathering where you scattered no seed, 25 so I was afraid, and I went and hid your talent in the ground. Here, you have what is yours.’ 26 But his master answered him, ‘You wicked and slothful servant! You knew that I reap where I have not sown and gather where I scattered no seed? 27 Then you ought to have invested my money with the bankers, and at my coming I should have received what was my own with interest. 28 So take the talent from him and give it to him who has the ten talents. 

29 For to everyone who has will more be given, and he will have an abundance. But from the one who has not, even what he has will be taken away. 30 And cast the worthless servant into the outer darkness. In that place there will be weeping and gnashing of teeth.’

Don’t worry about what other people received focus on what God gave you

[42:27] If GOD increased the provision for His servants, they would transgress on earth. This is why He sends it precisely measured to whomever He wills. He is fully Cognizant and Seer of His servants.

[7:169] Subsequent to them, He substituted new generations who inherited the scripture. But they opted for the worldly life instead, saying, "We will be forgiven." But then they continued to opt for the materials of this world. Did they not make a covenant to uphold the scripture, and not to say about GOD except the truth? Did they not study the scripture? Certainly, the abode of the Hereafter is far better for those who maintain righteousness. Do you not understand?

The blind man and the rich man

[49:13] O people, we created you from the same male and female, and rendered you distinct peoples and tribes, that you may recognize one another. The best among you in the sight of GOD is the most righteous. GOD is Omniscient, Cognizant.

God has given each of us different amounts, skills, abilities, blessings, favors etc. Regarding our life, God is not concerned about what He gave others, He wants to know what did we do with what He gave each of us.

[53:48] He is the One who makes you rich or poor.

أَغْنَىٰ = Ag-nah-ah = Rich = free from need

وَأَقْنَىٰ =  ag-nah-ah = poor = makes satisfy

Root = ق ن ي = to acquire a thing; to cause to acquire; make contended; satisfy; preserve; make satisfy with a given thing

[74:6] Be content with your lot.

[76:8] They donate their favorite food to the poor, the orphan, and the captive. [76:9] "We feed you for the sake of GOD; we expect no reward from you, nor thanks.

[92:17] Avoiding it will be the righteous. [92:18] Who gives from his money to charity. [92:19] Seeking nothing in return.

When you ask for provisions from God are you asking so you can better serve God with those provisions or are you asking for yourself? 

[2:272] You are not responsible for guiding anyone. GOD is the only one who guides whoever chooses (to be guided). Any charity you give is for your own good. Any charity you give shall be for the sake of GOD. Any charity you give will be repaid to you, without the least injustice.

[24:55] GOD promises those among you who believe and lead a righteous life, that He will make them sovereigns on earth, as He did for those before them, and will establish for them the religion He has chosen for them, and will substitute peace and security for them in place of fear. All this because they worship Me alone; they never set up any idols beside Me. Those who disbelieve after this are the truly wicked.

One can have everything in the world but they will not be able to be satisfied and therefore they will not be appreciative and therefore they will never be happy

[3:91] Those who disbelieve and die as disbelievers, an earthfull of gold will not be accepted from any of them, even if such a ransom were possible. They have incurred painful retribution; they will have no helpers.

Kafar = disbeliever = unappreciative

 

Ramadan 2019

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[2:183] O you who believe, fasting is decreed for you, as it was decreed for those before you, that you may attain salvation. [2:184] Specific days (are designated for fasting); if one is ill or traveling, an equal number of other days may be substituted. Those who can fast, but with great difficulty, may substitute feeding one poor person for each day of breaking the fast. If one volunteers (more righteous works), it is better. But fasting is the best for you, if you only knew. 

 

[2:185] Ramadan is the month during which the Quran was revealed, providing guidance for the people, clear teachings, and the statute book. Those of you who witness this month shall fast therein. Those who are ill or traveling may substitute the same number of other days. GOD wishes for you convenience, not hardship, that you may fulfill your obligations, and to glorify GOD for guiding you, and to express your appreciation.

 

[2:186] When My servants ask you about Me, I am always near. I answer their prayers when they pray to Me. The people shall respond to Me and believe in Me, in order to be guided. 

 

[2:187] Permitted for you is sexual intercourse with your wives during the nights of fasting. They are the keepers of your secrets, and you are the keepers of their secrets. GOD knew that you used to betray your souls, and He has redeemed you, and has pardoned you. Henceforth, you may have intercourse with them, seeking what GOD has permitted for you. You may eat and drink until the white thread of light becomes distinguishable from the dark thread of night at dawn. Then, you shall fast until sunset. Sexual intercourse is prohibited if you decide to retreat to the masjid (during the last ten days of Ramadan). These are GOD's laws; you shall not transgress them. GOD thus clarifies His revelations for the people, that they may attain salvation.

 

[17:78] You shall observe the Contact Prayer (Salat) when the sun declines from its highest point at noon, as it moves towards sunset. You shall also observe (the recitation of) the Quran at dawn. (Reciting) the Quran at dawn is witnessed.

 

[2:189] They ask you about the phases of the moon! Say, "They provide a timing device for the people, and determine the time of Hajj." It is not righteous to beat around the bush;* righteousness is attained by upholding the commandments and by being straightforward. You shall observe GOD, that you may succeed.

 

The new moon timings to determine the month of Ramadan are as follows:

 

May 04, 2019: 22:45 (10:45PM; UTC/GMT) = 3:45pm PST / 6:45pm EST

June 03, 2019: 10:02 AM (UTC/GMT) = 3:02am PST / 6:02am EST

https://www.onlineconverter.com/utc-to-pst

 

http://masjidtucson.org/submission/practices/ramadan/#dates

 

 

Sunset New York on May 4th 2019 = 6:45 pm EST

Sunset San Francisco on May 4th 2019 = 8:01pm PST

 

 

05 May 2019 - 03 June 2019: God willing the first day of Ramadan is 05 May, and the last day of Ramadan is 03 June for USA and Canada (e.g., we checked for Los Angeles, San Francisco, Seattle, Vancouver, Phoenix, Tucson, Chicago, Dallas, Miami New York, Washington DC, Ottawa, Toronto). Please verify / check with the information available for your location using the Ramadan Calculation Assistant and the US Naval Observatory solar & lunar data.

 

06 May 2019 - 03 June 2019: God willing the first day of Ramadan is 06 May, and the last day of Ramadan is 03 June for Europe (e.g., we checked for London, Berlin, Rome, Moscow, Istanbul), much of Asia (e.g., we checked for Mecca, Tehran, Dubai, Karachi, Mumbai, Chennai, Dhaka, Hong Kong) and Africa (e.g., we checked for Lagos, Tripoli, Cairo, Johannesburg, Nairobi). Please check with the information available for your location using the Ramadan Calculation Assistant and the US Naval Observatory solar & lunar data.

 

06 May 2019 - 04 June 2019: God willing the first day of Ramadan is 06 May, and the last day of Ramadan is 04 June for parts of Asia (e.g., we checked for Tokyo), Australia, New Zealand. Please check with the information available for your location using the Ramadan Calculation Assistant and the US Naval Observatory solar & lunar data (moon phase calculator).

 

The Night of Destiny (Night of Power) will start, God willing, at sunset on May 30, 2019 for those places that start fasting May 5. For those locations that start Ramadan on May 06 (a day later), the Night of Destiny falls on May 31, 2019 God willing.

 

Sura 97: Destiny (Al-Qadr)

[97:0] In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful [97:1] We revealed it in the Night of Destiny. [97:2] How awesome is the Night of Destiny! [97:3] The Night of Destiny is better than a thousand months. [97:4] The angels and the Spirit descend therein, by their Lord's leave, to carry out every command. [97:5] Peaceful it is until the advent of the dawn.

Quran Capitalism and Inequality - Part 1

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Has world poverty gotten worse or better in the last 30 years?

(less than a $1/day adjusted to inflation in 1970 to $1.90/day)

• From 1990 to today there has been ~65% reduction in extreme poverty (from 36% of world population to <10% today)
• From 1970 to today 80% reduction in extreme poverty

If you ask economists what was the cause of poverty decline their answer is unanimously contingent on these five points:

1. Rule of Law
2. Property Rights
3. Free Trade
4. Globalization

“Commerce takes more people out of poverty than aid - aid is just a stop gap” – Bono Georgetown University

“Free markets have taken more people out of poverty than any system in history they have lifted billions out of poverty” – Barak Obama

If you apply Quranic principles you will reap the benefits 

Like if someone fasts, eats in moderation, doesn’t drink alcohol they will be more healthy than someone who does (irrespective if they believe or not) 

#1 Rule of Law

[25:1] Most blessed is the One who revealed the Statute Book to His servant, so he can serve as a warner to the whole world.

Democracy vs. Republic

Majority Rule vs No One Above the Law

Catch a person accuse them of robbing a bank

35 vote to hang the person the one guys votes not to be hanged

Democracy the person will be hanged

Republic the question is are the people allowed to hang someone for robbing a bank? What due process is the accused guaranteed? How should the trial and verdict be handed out?

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JdS6fyUIklI&t

[5:48] Then we revealed to you this scripture, truthfully, confirming previous scriptures, and superseding them. You shall rule among them in accordance with GOD's revelations, and do not follow their wishes if they differ from the truth that came to you.

In a republic, no one is above the law

[3:161] Even the prophet cannot take more of the spoils of war than he is entitled to. Anyone who takes more than his rightful share will have to account for it on the Day of Resurrection. That is when each soul is paid for whatever it earned, without the least injustice.

Obviously, people have different interpretations of laws and the Quran is no different? So how can we institute God’s laws despite our own shortcomings as individuals?

Let’s say you want to split a bowl of ice cream? What is the fairest most simple way to do this?

I cut you choose

How do we apply God’s law? If the table were turn would  we feel injustice?

[5:8] O you who believe, you shall be absolutely equitable, and observe GOD, when you serve as witnesses. Do not be provoked by your conflicts with some people into committing injustice. You shall be absolutely equitable, for it is more righteous. You shall observe GOD. GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do.

[4:135] O you who believe, you shall be absolutely equitable, and observe GOD, when you serve as witnesses, even against yourselves, or your parents, or your relatives. Whether the accused is rich or poor, GOD takes care of both. Therefore, do not be biased by your personal wishes. If you deviate or disregard (this commandment), then GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do.

You Shall Keep Your Word

[16:91] You shall fulfill your covenant with GOD when you make such a covenant. You shall not violate the oaths after swearing (by God) to carry them out, for you have made GOD a guarantor for you. GOD knows everything you do. [16:92] Do not be like the knitter who unravels her strong knitting into piles of flimsy yarn. This is your example if you abuse the oaths to take advantage of one another. Whether one group is larger than the other, GOD thus puts you to the test. He will surely show you on the Day of Resurrection everything you had disputed. [16:93] Had GOD willed, He could have made you one congregation. But He sends astray whoever chooses to go astray, and He guides whoever wishes to be guided.* You will surely be asked about everything you have done.

Violating Your Oath: A Serious Offense

[16:94] Do not abuse the oaths among you, lest you slide back after having a strong foothold, then you incur misery. Such is the consequence of repelling from the path of GOD (by setting a bad example); you incur a terrible retribution. [16:95] Do not sell your oaths before GOD short. What GOD possesses is far better for you, if you only knew. [16:96] What you possess runs out, but what GOD possesses lasts forever. We will surely reward those who steadfastly persevere; we will recompense them for their righteous works.

[5:89] GOD does not hold you responsible for the mere utterance of oaths; He holds you responsible for your actual intentions. If you violate an oath, you shall atone by feeding ten poor people from the same food you offer to your own family, or clothing them, or by freeing a slave. If you cannot afford this, then you shall fast three days. This is the atonement for violating the oaths that you swore to keep. You shall fulfill your oaths. GOD thus explains His revelations to you, that you may be appreciative.

#2 Property Rights

Story of building wells in Africa

Economist Hernando de Soto

Extra legal economy / black market

Planet Money - February 7, 2018 - The Secret Document That Transformed China

https://www.npr.org/sections/money/2018/02/07/583999476/episode-337-the-secret-document-that-transformed-china

[4:2] You shall hand over to the orphans their rightful properties. Do not substitute the bad for the good, and do not consume their properties by combining them with yours. This would be a gross injustice.

[2:188] You shall not take each others' money illicitly, nor shall you bribe the officials to deprive others of some of their rights illicitly, while you know.

Lobbyist

Jack Abramoff

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CHiicN0Kg10&t=

Peanut subsidies lobbyist quote - “There are three people in the world who understand peanut subsidies and it is my job to keep it that way.”

Return on lobbying is 22,000%

https://www.npr.org/sections/money/2012/01/06/144737864/forget-stocks-or-bonds-invest-in-a-lobbyist

#3 Free Trade

[4:29] O you who believe, do not consume each others' properties illicitly— only mutually acceptable transactions are permitted.

Capitalism

Voluntary exchange

#4 Globalization

Whenever a society cuts itself off from trading with other people they suffer economically from it

China in the 15th century used to have the strongest navy and was the strongest nation in the world, then it outlawed ships and trade during the Ming dynasty

One of the largest most populated and advanced societies in the world back to the dark ages

China in the 15th century had the largest naval fleet not till the 20th century in WWI

After a period of maritime explorations (see Zheng He) in the early 15th century, the Ming Dynasty started shutting the Middle Kingdom out of the rest of the world. This of course continued with the Qing, and the empire remained largely isolated until the 19th century, because of foreign "initiative." However, just when Spain and Portugal started flourishing with an economy based on trade, the Chinese chose to close their doors to the world.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Haijin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=h4YEADagu0o

Corresponds with the building of the great wall of China to keep out the mongols that stretched in sections that total six thousand miles. Wanted to preserve Chinese culture and not be invaded by foreign influence

Hong Kong

[49:13] O people, we created you from the same male and female, and rendered you distinct peoples and tribes, that you may recognize one another. The best among you in the sight of GOD is the most righteous. GOD is Omniscient, Cognizant.

[34:15] Sheba's homeland used to be a marvel, with two gardens on the right and the left. Eat from your Lord's provisions, and be appreciative of Him—good land, and a forgiving Lord. [34:16] They turned away and, consequently, we poured upon them a disastrous flood, and we substituted their two gardens into two gardens of bad tasting fruits, thorny plants, and a skimpy harvest. [34:17] We thus requited them for their disbelief. Do we not requite only the disbelievers? [34:18] We placed between them and the communities that we blessed other oases, and we secured the journey between them: "Travel therein days and nights in complete security." [34:19] But they (turned unappreciative and) challenged: "Our Lord, we do not care if You increase the distance of our journeys (without any stations)." They thus wronged their own souls. Consequently, we made them history, and scattered them into small communities throughout the land. This should provide lessons for those who are steadfast, appreciative.

We take for granted that we can ship merchandise almost anywhere in the world, that our shipping routes are secure and there is for the most part stability in the world.

US for all the bad rep they get for their military spending are spending billions each year to protect the trade routes for billions of people throughout the world

Still plenty of opportunities to give to charity

1. 650 million people, or ~10% percent of the population, live in extreme poverty with less than $1.90 per day. 
2. 2.1 billion people live on less than $3.10 per day. 
3. 328 million children are living in extreme poverty. 
4. At least 17 million children suffer from severe acute undernutrition around the world. Severe acute malnutrition is the direct cause of death for 1 million children every year. 
5. Every single day, 1,000 children under 5 die from illnesses like diarrhea, dysentery, and cholera caused by contaminated water and inadequate sanitation.

Satisfaction

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Rolling Stones - Keith Richards & Mick Jagger - I can’t get no satisfaction 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3VZ4mAfta3s

Cow never asks am I satisfied with my life 

two central questions that people ask themselves when determining whether they’re satisfied with something in their life:

1. Am I doing better than I was before?
2. Am I doing better than other people?

This applies to wealth, but also to attractiveness, height, and other things that people fret about. “But the problem is,” Norton says, “a lot of the things that really matter in life are hard to measure.

So if you wanted to be a good parent, it’s a little hard to know if you’re being a better parent now than you were a year ago, and it’s also hard to know if you’re a better parent than the neighbors.” 

So people turn to dimensions of comparison that can be quantified. “Money is a terrific one,” Norton says. “If I need to know if I’m doing better than I was, the easy thing to ask is, Am I making more money? or Does my house have more square feet? or Do I have more houses than I used to?”  

The research Norton has conducted illustrating this phenomenon is dispiriting. In a paper published earlier this year, he and his collaborators asked more than 2,000 people who have a net worth of at least $1 million (including many whose wealth far exceeded that threshold) how happy they were on a scale of one to 10, and then how much more money they would need to get to 10. “All the way up the income-wealth spectrum,” Norton told me, “basically everyone says [they’d need] two or three times as much” to be perfectly happy.

https://www.theatlantic.com/family/archive/2018/12/rich-people-happy-money/577231/

[30:6] Such is GOD's promise—and GOD never breaks His promise—but most people do not know. [30:7] They care only about things of this world that are visible to them, while being totally oblivious to the Hereafter.

Not everything that counts can be counted, and not everything that can be counted counts.

Some of the things that matter the most are not measurable in the worldly sense?

Righteousness, virtue, honesty, etc.

[7:26] O children of Adam, we have provided you with garments to cover your bodies, as well as for luxury. But the best garment is the garment of righteousness. These are some of GOD's signs, that they may take heed.

Hoarding

[102:1] You remain preoccupied with hoarding. [102:2] Until you go to the graves.

التَّكاثُرُ = the competitive quest for more / hoarding.

“We buy things we don't need with money we don't have to impress people we don't like.”

God makes us satisfied

[53:48] He is the One who makes you rich or poor.

أَغْنَىٰ = Ag-nah-ah = Rich = free from need

وَأَقْنَىٰ =  ag-nah-ah = poor = makes satisfy

Root = ق ن ي = to acquire a thing; to cause to acquire; make contended; satisfy; preserve; make satisfy with a given thing

GOD is the only one who can make us satisfied

Motley Crue movie - Dirt 

Being impressed by the abundance of sin

[5:100] Proclaim: "The bad and the good are not the same, even if the abundance of the bad may impress you. You shall reverence GOD, (even if you are in the minority,) O you who possess intelligence, that you may succeed.”

[9:55] Do not be impressed by their money, or their children. GOD causes these to be sources of retribution for them in this life, and (when they die) their souls depart while they are disbelievers.

[9:85] Do not be impressed by their money or their children; GOD causes these to be sources of misery for them in this world, and their souls depart as disbelievers.

God has everything we need

Addiction - drug, porn, depression etc. root cause is lack of satisfaction

Depression - some people have a genuine psychological imbalance

I think out of the 9 different traits for depression only 2 have to do with biology 

"no food one problem- lots of food many problems”

Diogenes - Apocryphal

Greek philosopher and one of the founders of Cynic philosophy. ~350BC

Stories of him take minimalism to a whole new extreme

All he had was a cup to drink from then one day he saw a boy drinking from his hand and he cursed his cup and got rid of it

Alexander and Diogenes

While Diogenes was relaxing in the morning sunlight, Alexander, thrilled to meet the famous philosopher, asked if there was any favor he might do for him. Diogenes replied, "Yes, stand out of my sunlight." Alexander then declared, "If I were not Alexander, then I should wish to be Diogenes." "If I were not Diogenes, I would still wish to be Diogenes," Diogenes replied. In another account of the conversation, Alexander found the philosopher looking attentively at a pile of human bones. Diogenes explained, "I am searching for the bones of your father but cannot distinguish them from those of a slave.”

Choose Your Priorities Carefully This Life

[17:18] Anyone who chooses this fleeting life as his priority, we will rush to him what we decide to give him, then we commit him to Gehenna, where he suffers forever, despised and defeated.

The Hereafter

[17:19] As for those who choose the Hereafter as their priority, and work righteousness, while believing, their efforts will be appreciated. [17:20] For each one of them we provide; we provide those and these from your Lord's bounties. Your Lord's bounties are inexhaustible. [17:21] Note how we preferred some people above others (in this life). The differences in the Hereafter are far greater and far more significant.

Clayton Christensen - How to measure a life

Kafar = disbeliever but also means unappreciative

Hell and Satisfaction

Imagine if you had the best most extravagant life - but no improvement whatsoever for all of eternity - how long before you would be absolutely miserable? 

Eternally hopeless knowing for sure your situation will NEVER change

Imagine you had to spend your life digging a hole, now imagine if that task was expected from you for eternity

[13:14] Imploring Him is the only legitimate supplication, while the idols they implore beside Him, cannot ever respond. Thus, they are like those who stretch their hands to the water, but nothing reaches their mouths. The supplications of the disbelievers are in vain.

[88:6] They will have no food except the useless variety. [88:7] It never nourishes, nor satisfies hunger. [88:8] Other faces on that day will be full of joy. [88:9] Satisfied with their work.

[24:39] As for those who disbelieve, their works are like a mirage in the desert. A thirsty person thinks that it is water. But when he reaches it, he finds that it is nothing, and he finds GOD there instead, to requite him fully for his works. GOD is the most efficient reckoner.

Matthew 6:

Treasures in Heaven

19 “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moths and vermin destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. 20 But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where moths and vermin do not destroy, and where thieves do not break in and steal. 21 For where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. 22 “The eye is the lamp of the body. If your eyes are healthy, your whole body will be full of light. 23 But if your eyes are unhealthy, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light within you is darkness, how great is that darkness! 24 “No one can serve two masters. Either you will hate the one and love the other, or you will be devoted to the one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and money.

Do Not Worry

25 “Therefore I tell you, do not worry about your life, what you will eat or drink; or about your body, what you will wear. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothes? 26 Look at the birds of the air; they do not sow or reap or store away in barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not much more valuable than they? 27 Can any one of you by worrying add a single hour to your life? 28 “And why do you worry about clothes? See how the flowers of the field grow. They do not labor or spin. 29 Yet I tell you that not even Solomon in all his splendor was dressed like one of these. 30 If that is how God clothes the grass of the field, which is here today and tomorrow is thrown into the fire, will he not much more clothe you—you of little faith? 31 So do not worry, saying, ‘What shall we eat?’ or ‘What shall we drink?’ or ‘What shall we wear?’ 32 For the pagans run after all these things, and your heavenly Father knows that you need them. 33 But seek first his kingdom and his righteousness, and all these things will be given to you as well. 34 Therefore do not worry about tomorrow, for tomorrow will worry about itself. Each day has enough trouble of its own.

Marriage According to Quran

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4 Requirements for Marriage

1. Mutual desire and intention that the a man and a women would like to get married to spend the rest of their lives as a strictly monogamous couple
2. Man provides the dowry - agree between the two what that is
3. Solemn pledge man makes to the women
4. Consummation 

Should you do a formal marriage under state law? Should you announce it? Should you have a ceremony? 

Ask yourself why not? Are you trying to make it easy to divorce

Only Mutually Acceptable Transactions Can Be Made

[4:29] O you who believe, do not consume each others' properties illicitly - only mutually acceptable transactions are permitted. You shall not kill yourselves. GOD is Merciful towards you.

The expectation is that the marriage is supposed to be for their entire lives

Protection for the Women

[4:20] If you wish to marry another wife, in place of your present wife, and you had given any of them a great deal, you shall not take back anything you had given her. Would you take it fraudulently, maliciously, and sinfully? [4:21] How could you take it back, after you have been intimate with each other, and they had taken from you a solemn pledge?

You Shall Keep Your Word

[16:91] You shall fulfill your covenant with GOD when you make such a covenant. You shall not violate the oaths after swearing (by God) to carry them out, for you have made GOD a guarantor for you. GOD knows everything you do. [16:92] Do not be like the knitter who unravels her strong knitting into piles of flimsy yarn. This is your example if you abuse the oaths to take advantage of one another. Whether one group is larger than the other, GOD thus puts you to the test. He will surely show you on the Day of Resurrection everything you had disputed.

God discourages divorce

(temporary marriages) is just prostitution

[24:33] Those who cannot afford to get married shall maintain morality until GOD provides for them from His grace. .… You shall not force your girls (women) to commit prostitution, seeking the materials of this world, if they wish to be chaste. If anyone forces them, then GOD, seeing that they are forced, is Forgiver, Merciful.

[2:191] ...Oppression is worse than murder.

Age

[17:38] All bad behavior is condemned by your Lord.

Morality - all bad behavior is prohibited - not sure what that is ask 10 people do you think this is good behavior if 9/10 people tell you that isn’t moral behavior then it probably isn't

Word for marriage is full grown / working age / done with puberty (women)

4:127 - النِّسَاءِ = (al-neesa - like name of cousin) the orphan women

ن س و = women 

Root = ف ت ي

to be young; full-grown; brave; generous; youth; generosity; manly qualities; young man; bold; courageous; young slave; fine fellow; servant; to advise; explain; give opinion or instruction; judgment or decision in a matter of law; give a formal legal decree; issue a (divine) decree or a sacred law; explain the meaning; pronounce; to consult; ask opinion or advice; decision; opinion; advice

4:25 - فَتَيَاتِكُمُ = (fatty yateh koom ) full-grown young women

24:33 - full-grown women (young women) - in context of forcing to prostitution

Root for female - irrespective of age is 

ا ن ث = female = أُنْثَىٰ 

[3:36] When she gave birth to her, she said, "My Lord, I have given birth to a girl"—GOD was fully aware of what she bore—"The male is not the same as the female. I have named her Mary and I invoke Your protection for her and her descendants from the rejected devil."

The age of marriage also means puberty 

ن ك ح = to tie; make a knot; contract; cement; marriage (age of marriage / age to sign a contract) 

النِّكَاحَ -  age of marriage / puberty / sexual maturity / age to be able to sign a contract independently

4:6

Khalifa

You shall test the orphans when they reach puberty. As soon as you find them mature enough, give them their property. Do not consume it extravagantly in a hurry, before they grow up. The rich guardian shall not charge any wage, but the poor guardian may charge equitably. When you give them their properties, you shall have witnesses. GOD suffices as Reckoner.

Yusuf Ali

Make trial of orphans until they reach the age of marriage; if then ye find sound judgment in them, release their property to them; but consume it not wastefully, nor in haste against their growing up. If the guardian is well-off, Let him claim no remuneration, but if he is poor, let him have for himself what is just and reasonable. When ye release their property to them, take witnesses in their presence: But all-sufficient is God in taking account.

Pickthal

Prove orphans till they reach the marriageable age; then, if ye find them of sound judgment, deliver over unto them their fortune; and devour it not by squandering and in haste lest they should grow up Whoso (of the guardians) is rich, let him abstain generously (from taking of the property of orphans); and whoso is poor let him take thereof in reason (for his guardianship). And when ye deliver up their fortune unto orphans, have (the transaction) witnessed in their presence. Allah sufficeth as a Reckoner.

Shakir

And test the orphans until they attain puberty; then if you find in them maturity of intellect, make over to them their property, and do not consume it extravagantly and hastily, lest they attain to full age; and whoever is rich, let him abstain altogether, and whoever is poor, let him eat reasonably; then when you make over to them their property, call witnesses in their presence; and Allah is enough as a Reckoner.

Sher Ali

And test the understanding of orphans until they attain the age of marriage, then, if you perceive in them mature judgment, deliver to them their property; and devour it not in extravagance and haste against their growing up. And whoso is rich, let him abstain; and who so is poor let him eat thereof with equity. And when you deliver to them their property, then call witnesses in their presence. And Allah is sufficient as a Reckoner.

 

shows that maturity is when someone is of sound mind and body

Marriage is a contract - need someone of sound mind to agree to a contract

[2:282]...If the debtor is mentally incapable, or helpless, or cannot dictate, his guardian shall dictate equitably.

Dowry / Engagement

[4:4] You shall give the women their due dowries, equitably. If they willingly forfeit anything, then you may accept it; it is rightfully yours.

[4:24] …These are GOD's commandments to you. All other categories are permitted for you in marriage, so long as you pay them their due dowries. You shall maintain your morality, by not committing adultery. Thus, whoever you like among them, you shall pay them the dowry decreed for them. You commit no error by mutually agreeing to any adjustments to the dowry. GOD is Omniscient, Most Wise. 

Breaking the Engagement  = divorce

[2:236] You commit no error by divorcing the women before touching them, or before setting the dowry for them. In this case, you shall compensate them—the rich as he can afford and the poor as he can afford —an equitable compensation. This is a duty upon the righteous. [2:237] If you divorce them before touching them, but after you had set the dowry for them, the compensation shall be half the dowry, unless they voluntarily forfeit their rights, or the party responsible for causing the divorce chooses to forfeit the dowry. To forfeit is closer to righteousness. You shall maintain the amicable relations among you. GOD is Seer of everything you do.

Need to be able to afford to marry

[24:33] Those who cannot afford to get married shall maintain morality until GOD provides for them from His grace.

Those among your servants who wish to be freed in order to marry, you shall grant them their wish, once you realize that they are honest. And give them from GOD's money that He has bestowed upon you…

Honoring the parents by asking permission from them 4:25

[4:25] Those among you who cannot afford to marry free believing women, may marry believing slave women. GOD knows best about your belief, and you are equal to one another, as far as belief is concerned. You shall obtain permission from their guardians (family Ah-lee hee nah) before you marry them, and pay them their due dowry equitably. They shall maintain moral behavior, by not committing adultery, or having secret lovers. Once they are freed through marriage, if they commit adultery, their punishment shall be half of that for the free women.* Marrying a slave shall be a last resort for those unable to wait. To be patient is better for you. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

Who we can’t marry 

Respect for the Father 

[4:22] Do not marry the women who were previously married to your fathers—existing marriages are exempted and shall not be broken—for it is a gross offense, and an abominable act. 

Incest Forbidden 

[4:23] Prohibited for you (in marriage) are your mothers, your daughters, your sisters, the sisters of your fathers, the sisters of your mothers, the daughters of your brother, the daughters of your sister, your nursing mothers, the girls who nursed from the same woman as you, the mothers of your wives, the daughters of your wives with whom you have consummated the marriage—if the marriage has not been consummated, you may marry the daughter. Also prohibited for you are the women who were married to your genetic sons. Also, you shall not be married to two sisters at the same time—but do not break up existing marriages. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

[4:24] Also prohibited are the women who are already married, unless they flee their disbelieving husbands who are at war with you.* These are GOD's commandments to you. All other categories are permitted for you in marriage, so long as you pay them their due dowries….

Henry Ford about the model T: “You can have any color as long as it is black”

[2:221] Do not marry idolatresses unless they believe; a believing woman is better than an idolatress, even if you like her. Nor shall you give your daughters in marriage to idolatrous men, unless they believe. A believing man is better than an idolater, even if you like him. These invite to Hell, while GOD invites to Paradise and forgiveness, as He wills. He clarifies His revelations for the people, that they may take heed.

What about homosexuality? 

[7:80] Lot said to his people, "You commit such an abomination; no one in the world has done it before!

[7:81] "You practice sex with the men, instead of the women. Indeed, you are a transgressing people." 

[42:50] Or, He may have the males and the females marry each other, then render whomever He wills sterile. He is Omniscient, Omnipotent.

What the right hand possess

Or not And

[23:5] And they maintain their chastity.

[23:6] Only with their spouses, or those who are rightfully theirs, do they have sexual relations; they are not to be blamed.  

مَلَكَتْ =  possess / owner of / or to take a wife

أَيْمَانُهُمْ =  right hand / oaths / vows 

[70:29] They keep their chastity. [70:30] (They have sexual relations) only with their spouses, or what is legally theirs - [70:31] anyone who transgresses these limits is a sinner.

أَيْمَانُهُمْ = See: 9:12. 9:13, 16:94 = oaths

[9:12] If they violate their oaths after pledging to keep their covenants, and attack your religion, you may fight the leaders of paganism—you are no longer bound by your covenant with them—that they may refrain. [9:13] Would you not fight people who violated their treaties, tried to banish the messenger, and they are the ones who started the war in the first place? Are you afraid of them? GOD is the One you are supposed to fear, if you are believers.

30:28 = servants

4:3 = you already have 

33:50 = what they already have

16:71 = subordinate 

4:25 = slave

9:12 = oaths

9:13 = oaths

4:24 = took a vow for marriage

[33:55] The women may relax (their dress code) around their fathers, their sons, their brothers, the sons of their brothers, the sons of their sisters, the other women, and their (female) servants. They shall reverence GOD. GOD witnesses all things.

Divorce 

Marriage Arbitration

[4:35] If a couple fears separation, you shall appoint an arbitrator from his family and an arbitrator from her family; if they decide to reconcile, GOD will help them get together. GOD is Omniscient, Cognizant.

Divorce Discouraged 

[4:128] If a woman senses oppression or desertion from her husband, the couple shall try to reconcile their differences, for conciliation is best for them. Selfishness is a human trait, and if you do good and lead a righteous life, GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do.

Polygamy 

Grounds For Polygamy

[4:3] If you deem it best for the orphans, you may marry their mothers—you may marry two, three, or four. If you fear lest you become unfair, then you shall be content with only one, or with what you already have. Additionally, you are thus more likely to avoid financial hardship.

Polygamy Discouraged

[4:129] You can never be equitable in dealing with more than one wife, no matter how hard you try. Therefore, do not be so biased as to leave one of them hanging (neither enjoying marriage, nor left to marry someone else). If you correct this situation and maintain righteousness, GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

Polygamy was a way of life until the Quran was revealed 1400 years ago. When the earth was young and under-populated, polygamy was one way of populating it and bringing in the human beings needed to carry out God's plan. By the time the Quran was revealed, the world had been sufficiently populated, and the Quran put down the first limitations against polygamy. Polygamy is permitted in the Quran, but under strictly observed circumstances. Any abuse of this divine permission incurs severe retribution. Thus, although polygamy is permitted by God, it behooves us to examine our circumstances carefully before saying that a particular polygamous relationship is permissible. 

1. It must alleviate pain and suffering and not cause any pain or suffering.

2. If you have a young family, it is almost certain that polygamy is an abuse. 

3. Polygamy to substitute a younger wife is an abuse of God's law.

Don’t ascribe to Hadith and the disgusting lies they have about the prophet. As far as I am concerned the prophet was bound by the Quran.

God Strengthens the Messenger

[17:73] They almost diverted you from the revelations we have given you. They wanted you to fabricate something else, in order to consider you a friend. [17:74] If it were not that we strengthened you, you almost leaned towards them just a little bit. [17:75] Had you done that, we would have doubled the retribution for you in this life, and after death, and you would have found no one to help you against us. [17:76] They almost banished you from the land to get rid of you, so they could revert as soon as you left. [17:77] This has been consistently the case with all the messengers that we sent before you, and you will find that our system never changes.

 

 

 

Pessimism vs. Optimism

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Evolution vs. De-evolution

Sign of intelligence is that new information is created

E. coli Long-term Experiment on Evolution -

Started 24 February 1988.[2]

66,000 in November 2016.[3]

No new molecular machines

No newly designed cell structures

No new protein-coding sections of DNA

Evolution vs De-Evolution

• Example of how to make a car go faster - throw out the seats
• http://myxo.css.msu.edu/ecoli/

Because it is easier to destroy than to build

Ask you what are some decisions in your life you can make to make your life worse?

Easy 

Run out in front of traffic

Poke your eyes out

Burn all your savings

Hit your head with a hammer

Hold your breath underwater until you pass out

If I ask you what can be done to make the future WORSE

You can probably come up with a whole bunch of ideas

Ask you what decisions you can make to make your life BETTER?

Little harder -

At best you will come up with ideas of what to remove not what to add

Easier to break down rather than to build 

Because it is easier to destroy than to build

If I ask you what can you do to make the future better

More difficult

Easier to point out the downside and all the reasons something can fail rather than how it can succeed

But more ideas does not mean that the ideas are any better - but makes us feel smart

Typically an inherent bias that we equate things that we can imagine as more likely than things we can’t …e.g.e shark attacks

Pessimism isn't just more common than optimism, it also sounds smarter.

Pessimist are intellectually captivating, and people pay more attention to them rather than optimist who are often viewed as an oblivious sucker.

If you say the world has been getting better you may get away with being called naïve and insensitive.

Harvard professor Teresa Amabile shows that those publishing negative book reviews are seen as smarter and more competent than those giving positive reviews of the same book. "Only pessimism sounds profound. Optimism sounds superficial," she wrote.

Why?

Here are a few other reasons I've observed for why pessimism gets so much attention.

[4:147] What will GOD gain from punishing you, if you became appreciative and believed? GOD is Appreciative, Omniscient.

Complaining makes us feel like we are smart

• There is a form of an iQ/creativity test where the objective is to see how many ideas you can come up in a given amount of time:
• What can you do with a brick?
• Come up with different ways that someone can go from place to another?
• The more answers one comes up with the smarter they feel
• This is good for creativity, but there are somethings that the quantity of answers is not what is important but the quality

1. Optimism appears oblivious to risks, so by default pessimism looks more intelligent. 

2. Pessimism requires action, whereas optimism means staying the course. Pessimism is "SELL, GET OUT, RUN," which grabs your attention because it's an action you need to take right now. You don't want to read the article later or skim over the details, because you might get hurt. Optimism is mostly, "Don't worry, stay the course, we'll be alright," which is easy to ignore since it doesn't require doing anything. 

3. Optimism sounds like a sales pitch, while pessimism sounds like someone trying to help you. And that's often the truth. But in general, most of the time, optimism is the correct default setting, and pessimism can be as big a sales pitch as anything – especially if it's around emotional topics like money and politics. 

4. Pessimists extrapolate present trends without accounting for how reliably markets adapt. That's important, because pessimistic views often start with a foundation of rational analysis, so the warning appears as reasonable as it is scary.

Thomas Malthus 1800

Prophets were the ultimate optimist - that after we die we can be redeemed in God’s kingdom

How we respond to God’s promise determines if we believe in God’s promise or not…

[3:174] They have deserved GOD's blessings and grace. No harm ever touches them, for they have attained GOD's approval. GOD possesses infinite grace.

[33:11] That is when the believers were truly tested; they were severely shaken up. [33:12] The hypocrites and those with doubts in their hearts said, "What GOD and His messenger promised us was no more than an illusion!" [33:13] A group of them said, "O people of Yathrib, you cannot attain victory; go back." Others made up excuses to the prophet: "Our homes are vulnerable," when they were not vulnerable. They just wanted to flee.

Psalm 91

1 

Whoever dwells in the shelter of the Most High
    will rest in the shadow of the Almighty.[a]

2 

I will say of the Lord, “He is my refuge and my fortress,
    my God, in whom I trust.”

3 

Surely he will save you
    from the fowler’s snare
    and from the deadly pestilence.

4 

He will cover you with his feathers,
    and under his wings you will find refuge;
    his faithfulness will be your shield and rampart.

5 

You will not fear the terror of night,
    nor the arrow that flies by day,

6 

nor the pestilence that stalks in the darkness,
    nor the plague that destroys at midday.

7 

A thousand may fall at your side,
    ten thousand at your right hand,
    but it will not come near you.

8 

You will only observe with your eyes
    and see the punishment of the wicked.

9 

If you say, “The Lord is my refuge,”
    and you make the Most High your dwelling,

10 

no harm will overtake you,
    no disaster will come near your tent.

11 

For he will command his angels concerning you
    to guard you in all your ways;

12 

they will lift you up in their hands,
    so that you will not strike your foot against a stone.

13 

You will tread on the lion and the cobra;
    you will trample the great lion and the serpent.

14 

“Because he[b] loves me,” says the Lord, “I will rescue him;
    I will protect him, for he acknowledges my name.

15 

He will call on me, and I will answer him;
    I will be with him in trouble,
    I will deliver him and honor him.

16 

With long life I will satisfy him
    and show him my salvation.”

 

[33:22] When the true believers saw the parties (ready to attack), they said, "This is what GOD and His messenger have promised us, and GOD and His messenger are truthful." This (dangerous situation) only strengthened their faith and augmented their submission.

[2:249] When Saul took command of the troops, he said, "GOD is putting you to the test by means of a stream. Anyone who drinks from it does not belong with me—only those who do not taste it belong with me—unless it is just a single sip." They drank from it, except a few of them. When he crossed it with those who believed, they said, "Now we lack the strength to face Goliath and his troops." Those who were conscious of meeting GOD said, "Many a small army defeated a large army by GOD's leave. GOD is with those who steadfastly persevere.”

[14:7] Your Lord has decreed: "The more you thank Me, the more I give you." But if you turn unappreciative, then My retribution is severe.

[10:57] O people, enlightenment has come to you herein from your Lord, and healing for anything that troubles your hearts, and guidance, and mercy for the believers. [10:58] Say, "With GOD's grace and with His mercy they shall rejoice." This is far better than any wealth they can accumulate.

Mental Resilience

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If I went back two hundred years and I explained to the people back then that life has gotten so easy in our time that we literally have to pay money to go to a facility to lift heavy objects only to put them back where you got them and to run on a machine that doesn’t take you anywhere they would think that we have all gone crazy

The reason is because in the past doing hard labor was part of life

Let’s suspend disbelief for one second and imagine that reincarnation was real, then statistically there is a +90% chance that in all your past lives you were a farmer.

This is what makes people who believe reincarnation so comical is that they were

never a farmer in their past lives instead they were some knight or king/queen or general - a very prestigious historical figure, but in reality, most likely they were farmers, they never traveled more than 25 miles from where they were born in their whole life. They probably lost children due to illness or disease, they were probably illiterate, probably got up before dawn every morning and worked all day till sunset and then went to bed only to do the same thing again the next day and the day after that.

Life back then was intrinsically hard, and the ones who survived had the same genes of their ancestors but as time progressed things shifted

When in the past 90% of the population were famers now only 2% of the population are farmers

Rather than doing physically demanding work for a job we now predominately do mentally demanding work

And as a society, we quickly came to realize that because our lives have gotten so less physically demanding our health has taken a major impact

We now sit more than ever, we sit in our cars as we commute to work, we sit in front of a computer for many hours during the day and then we sit and watch Netflix or YouTube

Because of this gap we understood that in order to stay physically fit and healthy we needed to create ARTIFICIAL physical hardship. We started exercising, going to the gym, running, we sign up for exercise classes (yoga, pilates, cardio kickboxing). We go on hikes (not to tend to our flock or to savage for food) but for leisure.

And in return, our health and vitality improved, because our physiology was designed to need stress. If our muscles are not used they atrophy, we get weak, we get prone to injury and our health and overall wellness deteriorates.

To someone 200 years ago this would seem

Now what is interesting is that this change in lifestyle didn’t just impact our physical lives it also affected our mental ones as well.

And for some reason despite realizing that we require physical stresses in order to keep our bodies healthy, we somehow came to believe that by eliminating any mental hardships that somehow this will not have a strain on our mental resilience

Today we have life easier than ever

Anything we want we can pretty much have instantly. Walk into a grocery and year-round you can choose from any variety of fresh meats, fruits, grains etc. Don’t feel like cooking probably within a five-mile radius of where you are there are a whole list of options of different restaurants and food styles you could select to. Spend five minutes and instantly there will be a team of trained professionals ready to serve you.

The concept of being bored is no longer possible. We have such an abundance of entertainment that if you spent your whole life just watching Netflix or YouTube you would never even dent a fraction of one percent of the content that is continuously being produced for your personal entertainment.

While this is a HUGE blessing there is no doubt that this life of ease and abundance, if not handled correctly, will have severe consequences on our mental resilience - NO DIFFERENT THAN THE CHANGE IN PHYSICAL WORK has had

************************

DOWNSIDE OF LACK OF MENTAL RESILIENCE

What happens to a society that has begotten soft on mental resilience?

"History is filled with the sound of silken slippers going downstairs and wooden shoes coming up." —Voltaire

This has to do with the physical demand, but what about the mental toll of living too comfortable of a life?

Cyrus didn’t want to move the capital from Pasargadae to Susa because he thought that it would make his people soft

Under Cyrus' son Cambyses II, Susa became a center of political power as one of 4 capitals of the Achaemenid Persian empire, while reducing the significance of Pasargadae as the capital of Persis. Following Cambyses' brief rule, Darius the Great began a major building program in Susa and Persepolis. During this time he describes his new capital in the DSf inscription:

"History is filled with the sound of silken slippers going downstairs and wooden shoes coming up." —Voltaire

History is filled with societies who complain more despite having more, being overtaken by societies who complain less despite having less – QuranTalk

This is counterintuitive but complaining is inversely proportional to how much we have

[14:7] Your Lord has decreed: "The more you thank Me, the more I give you." But if you turn unappreciative, then My retribution is severe.

[42:27] If GOD increased the provision for His servants, they would transgress on earth. This is why He sends it precisely measured to whomever He wills. He is fully Cognizant and Seer of His servants.

[43:33] If it were not that all the people might become one (disbelieving)

congregation, we would have granted everyone who disbelieves in the Most Gracious mansions with silver roofs, and stairs upon which they could climb.

[16:112] GOD cites the example of a community that used to be secure and prosperous, with provisions coming to it from everywhere. But then, it turned unappreciative of GOD's blessings. Consequently, GOD caused them to taste the hardships of starvation and insecurity. Such is the requital for what they did.

Mo Money Mo Problems - Puff Daddy aka P.Diddy

PESSIMISM

Today despite having so much, society seems to have ever so much more to complain about

WHY????

Complaining is tempting because it feels good, but like many other things that are enjoyable—such as smoking or eating a whole chocolate cake for breakfast— complaining isn’t good for you.

Research shows that most people complain once a minute during a typical conversation.

Neurons that fire together wire together

Reinforce find things to complain about. Make more connections and focus on more on what is wrong.

While it’s not an exaggeration to say that complaining leads to brain damage, it doesn’t stop there.

When you complain, your body releases the stress hormone cortisol. Cortisol shifts you into fight-or-flight mode, directing oxygen, blood, and energy away from everything but the systems that are essential to immediate survival. One effect of cortisol, for example, is to raise your blood pressure and blood sugar so that you’ll be prepared to either escape or defend yourself. All the extra cortisol released by frequent complaining impairs your immune system and makes you more susceptible to high cholesterol, diabetes, heart disease, and obesity. It even makes the brain more vulnerable to strokes.

Complaining is contagious - it affects the people around us

• me complaining about kids when she was first born - wife saying why are you ruining this for me. Like someone you go out to eat with and only points out the bad things or similar to a movie

What we complain about is proportionate to our expectations Happiness = Expectations - Reality

When our expectations that everything has to work out our way on our terms by our expectations then we are setting our selves up for disappointment

My threshold for boredom -
My threshold for being offended

People who think that they are being persecuted and marginalized when they have so much more freedom and opportunity than any other generation in history

Do bad things and atrocities occur - sure but these are not the norm

We have a limited amount of time in our day and what we choose to focus on will affect not just our mood but our overall destiny, because what we do every day eventually effects our actions in our life.

Good thoughts, good actions, good deeds Bad thoughts, bad actions, bad deeds

Chip on their shoulder

[63:4] When you see them, you may be impressed by their looks. And when they speak, you may listen to their eloquence. They are like standing logs. They think that every call is intended against them. These are the real enemies; beware of them. GOD condemns them; they have deviated.

Limited capacity throughout our day what we want to focus on = can choose to focus on the good or the bad

Focus on the good or the bad? Can fix as many wrongs, but not dwell only on the bad and neglect the good

Like the famous Harvard experiment with the passing of the basketball and that 50% of the people missed the moon walking gorilla

The reality is that life is getting exponentially better in every respect in aggregate but our threshold of expectations is growing at a faster clip

Think of the idea of travel....
In the past travel was not a leisure activity - it was hardship, painful and typically and absolutely not done for leisure
People who used to travel by boat across the Atlantic
Or people who used to travel across a continent by wagon

They were risking their lives, they would be gone sometimes for years at at time away from their families

Now a person is stuck behind a light or the person infront of them cuts them off or their GPS isn’t working and they go nuts

If you make more than $33k/ year you are in the top 1% of the world If you adjust for cost of living globally let’s say it is $60k

Invisibilia Podcast - The Fifth Vital Sign - Pain

Girls who pain receptors would make anything touching their bodies feel excruciatingly painful

Like being in a silent room and then the sound of one's heart sounds like a cacophony

***********************

HOW TO FOSTER MENTAL RESILIENCE

Embrace the pain - Increase our thresholds

With pain there is gain

[94:5] With pain there is gain.
[94:6] Indeed, with pain there is gain.

Deprivation

Fasting

Walking vs. driving

Cold showers

Achievement without struggle is rarely satisfying - lifting light weights

Iran - daily blackouts for hours at a time

Meditation

people prefer to shock themselves rather than be in a quite room by themselves for 15 minutes

Reduce stimulation - Boredom

Creating artificial scenarios to mentally challenge one self (seems crazy) why would anyone do that? Just like ti would be crazy for the person 200 years ago for us to go to the gym

Do something hard

"We choose to go to the moon in this decade and do the other things, not because they are easy, but because they are hard," - JFK

Get too soft and your body recalibrated to the new threshold of pain

Marriage is on a decline = tinder, bumble app

Can’t matin a relationship

Someone who is unappreciative - does not acknowledge the benefits of things does not see the value in things

A cynic knows the price of everything and the value of nothing

[3:140] If you suffer hardship, the enemy also suffers the same hardship. We alternate the days of victory and defeat among the people. GOD thus distinguishes the true believers, and blesses some of you with martyrdom. GOD dislikes injustice. [3:141] GOD thus toughens those who believe and humiliates the disbelievers.

“Do not pray for an easy life, pray for the strength to endure a difficult life” Bruce Lee - Zig Zigler not sure

Radio Lab - Bliss - Aleksander Gamme

Antartica 3 month hike on skies to the south pole and back by himself Every 200km he would burry something in the snow
Day 86
Walking 10 hours a day lost 55 lbs

Last cache
Double pack of cheese doodles Chocolate bar

mentos

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vC8gJ0_9o4M

Believing Nations Prosper - Quran, Islam and Socialism

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What causes a nation to fail?

There are lots of theories

Maybe it is disease?

When the Europeans arrived, carrying germs which thrived in dense, semi-urban populations, the indigenous people of the Americas were effectively doomed. They had never experienced smallpox, measles or flu before, and the viruses tore through the continent, killing an estimated 90% of Native Americans.

Maybe it is poor financial planning like Communist Russia

Maybe it is a revolution like Iran in 1978

One of the theories I particularly like states that: when the complexity of operating a society outstrips its utility then it is destined to fail… 

There are endless books and theories to what causes a nation to fail, but these are all by products of one single criteria that God tells us in the Quran:

[16:112] GOD cites the example of a community that used to be secure and prosperous, with provisions coming to it from everywhere. But then, it turned unappreciative of GOD's blessings. Consequently, GOD caused them to taste the hardships of starvation and insecurity. Such is the requital for what they did.  

[14:7] Your Lord has decreed: "The more you thank Me, the more I give you." But if you turn unappreciative, then My retribution is severe.

Word: رَغَدًا (raghadan)

Root: ر غ د

to be abound in a good thing; (eat) freely and plentifully and with ease; live in ease and affluence; be amble and pleasant (in life); freely; plentifully; with ease

This root and this word occurs only 3 times in the Quran, one of those times was in 16:112 as we just read 

(2) Adam in Paradise 

[2:35] We said, "O Adam, live with your wife in Paradise, and eat therefrom generously, as you please, but do not approach this tree, lest you sin.”

[20:116] Recall that we said to the angels, "Fall prostrate before Adam." They fell prostrate, except Satan; he refused. [20:117] We then said, "O Adam, this is an enemy of you and your wife. Do not let him evict you from Paradise, lest you become miserable. [20:118] "You are guaranteed never to hunger therein, nor go unsheltered. [20:119] "Nor will you thirst therein, nor suffer from any heat."

[7:17] "I will come to them from before them, and from behind them, and from their right, and from their left, and You will find that most of them are unappreciative."

[20:120] But the devil whispered to him, saying, "O Adam, let me show you the tree of eternity and unending kingship." [20:121] They ate from it, whereupon their bodies became visible to them, and they tried to cover themselves with the leaves of Paradise. Adam thus disobeyed his Lord, and fell.

 

(2) Children of Israel

Word: رَغَدًا (raghadan)

Lack of Confidence in God: They Refuse to Enter Jerusalem

[2:58] Recall that we said, "Enter this town, where you will find as many provisions as you like. Just enter the gate humbly, and treat the people nicely. We will then forgive your sins, and increase the reward for the pious." [2:59] But the wicked among them carried out commands other than the commands given to them. Consequently, we sent down upon the transgressors condemnation from the sky, due to their wickedness.

So much of what we have we did zero work for:

[56:57] We have created you, if you could only believe! [56:58] Have you noted the semen that you produce? [56:59] Did you create it, or did we? [56:60] We have predetermined death for you. Nothing can stop us— [56:61] from substituting new generations in your place, and establishing what you do not know. [56:62] You know about the first creation. Do you not remember?

[56:63] Have you noted the crops you reap? [56:64] Did you grow them, or did we? [56:65] If we will, we can turn it into hay. Then you will lament: [56:66] "We lost. [56:67] "We are deprived."

[56:68] Have you noted the water you drink? [56:69] Did you send it down from the clouds, or did we? [56:70] If we will, we can make it salty. You should be thankful.

[56:71] Have you noted the fire you ignite? [56:72] Did you initiate its tree, or did we? [56:73] We rendered it a reminder, and a useful tool for the users. [56:74] You shall glorify the name of your Lord, the Great. 

Psalm 8:4 What is man that you are mindful of him   

There is no appreciative without believing and glorifying God alone

Appreciation comes from worshipping God alone

[68:17] We have tested them like we tested the owners of the garden who swore that they will harvest it in the morning. [68:18] They were so absolutely sure. [68:19] A passing (storm) from your Lord passed by it while they were asleep. [68:20] By morning, it was barren. [68:21] They called on each other in the morning. [68:22] "Let us harvest the crop." [68:23] On their way, they confided to each other. [68:24] That from then on, none of them would be poor. [68:25] They were so absolutely sure of their harvest. [68:26] But when they saw it, they said, "We were so wrong! [68:27] "Now, we have nothing! [68:28] The righteous among them said, "If only you had glorified (God)!"

Remembering God Every Chance We Get

[18:23] You shall not say that you will do anything in the future, [18:24] without saying, "GOD willing." If you forget to do this, you must immediately remember your Lord and say, "May my Lord guide me to do better next time.” 

It doesn’t matter how clever you are or how hard you work if we are not acknowledging that all our blessings come from God then we are destined to fail.

Example of the two men and their gardens

[18:32] Cite for them the example of two men: we gave one of them two gardens of grapes, surrounded by date palms, and placed other crops between them. [18:33] Both gardens produced their crops on time, and generously, for we caused a river to run through them.

[18:34] Once, after harvesting, he boastfully told his friend: "I am far more prosperous than you, and I command more respect from the people."  

[18:35] When he entered his garden, he wronged his soul by saying, "I do not think that this will ever end. [18:36] "Moreover, I think this is it; I do not think that the Hour (the Hereafter) will ever come to pass. Even if I am returned to my Lord, I will (clever enough to) possess an even better one over there.”

[18:37] His friend said to him, as he debated with him, "Have you disbelieved in the One who created you from dust, then from a tiny drop, then perfected you into a man? [18:38] "As for me, GOD is my Lord, and I will never set up any other god besides my Lord. [18:39] "When you entered your garden, you should have said, 'This is what GOD has given me (Mã Shã Allãh). No one possesses power except GOD (Lã Quwwata Ellã Bellãh).' You may see that I possess less money and less children than you. [18:40] "My Lord may grant me better than your garden. He may send a violent storm from the sky that wipes out your garden, leaving it completely barren. [18:41] "Or, its water may sink deeper, out of your reach."

[18:42] Indeed, his crops were wiped out, and he ended up sorrowful, lamenting what he had spent on it in vain, as his property lay barren. He finally said, "I wish I never set up my property as a god beside my Lord." [18:43] No force on earth could have helped him against GOD, nor was it possible for him to receive any help. [18:44] That is because the only true Lord and master is GOD; He provides the best recompense, and with Him is the best destiny.

[18:45] Cite for them the example of this life as water that we send down from the sky to produce plants of the earth, then they turn into hay that is blown away by the wind. GOD is able to do all things.

If we are unappreciative we will lose everything as it is God who causes the provisions to be sent or turned to hay 

If we think it is us who is doing this then we are worshiping our selves

How can we tell when as a society we are turning unappreciative?  

[34:15] Sheba's homeland used to be a marvel, with two gardens on the right and the left. Eat from your Lord's provisions, and be appreciative of Him—good land, and a forgiving Lord. [34:16] They turned away and, consequently, we poured upon them a disastrous flood, and we substituted their two gardens into two gardens of bad tasting fruits, thorny plants, and a skimpy harvest. [34:17] We thus requited them for their disbelief. Do we not requite only the disbelievers?

[34:18] We placed between them and the communities that we blessed other oases, and we secured the journey between them: "Travel therein days and nights in complete security." [34:19] But they (turned unappreciative and) challenged: "Our Lord, we do not care if You increase the distance of our journeys (without any stations)." They thus wronged their own souls. Consequently, we made them history, and scattered them into small communities throughout the land. This should provide lessons for those who are steadfast, appreciative.   

[34:20] Satan found them readily fulfilling his expectations. They followed him, except a few believers.

Entitlement 

Just because God has blessed us tremendously does not mean we “deserve” any of this.

Once we think we deserve something we no longer become appreciative we think it is owed to us 

[41:50] And when we bless him after suffering some adversity, he says, "This belongs to me. I do not believe that the Hour will ever come to pass. Even if I am returned to my Lord, I will find at Him better things." Most certainly, we will inform the disbelievers of all their works, and will commit them to severe retribution.  

Children of Israel

[7:131] When good omens came their way, they said, "We have deserved this," but when a hardship afflicted them, they blamed Moses and those with him. In fact, their omens are decided only by GOD, but most of them do not know. 

[11:9] Whenever we bless the human being with mercy from us, then remove it, he turns despondent, unappreciative. [11:10] Whenever we bless him, after adversity had afflicted him, he says, "All adversity has gone away from me;" he becomes excited, proud. [11:11] As for those who steadfastly persevere, and lead a righteous life, they deserve forgiveness and a generous recompense.

[19:77] Have you noted the one who rejected our revelations then said, "I will be given wealth and children"?! [19:78] Has he seen the future? Has he taken such a pledge from the Most Gracious?”

Entitlement is the opposite of gratitude 

Entitlement - I deserve these eyes, I deserve this clean bill of health 

God owes us nothing and we owe Him everything 

If I believe it is owed to me then I don’t believe I have to work for it

Thinking nothing is their fault and everything is owed to them

[10:12] When adversity touches the human being, he implores us while lying down, or sitting, or standing up. But as soon as we relieve his adversity, he goes on as if he never implored us to relieve any hardship! The works of the transgressors are thus adorned in their eyes. 

becomes accustomed to something habituation   

Children of Israel Rebel

[2:61] Recall that you said, "O Moses, we can no longer tolerate one kind of food. Call upon your Lord to produce for us such earthly crops as beans, cucumbers, garlic, lentils, and onions." He said, "Do you wish to substitute that which is inferior for that which is good? Go down to Egypt, where you can find what you asked for." They have incurred condemnation, humiliation, and disgrace, and brought upon themselves wrath from GOD. This is because they rejected GOD's revelations, and killed the prophets unjustly. This is because they disobeyed and transgressed. 

How can we tell that we have progressed from feeling entitled to feeling appreciative?

When we replace a sense of entitlement and exception that things are owed to me, to a life of service and gratitude and understanding how can I serve others based on the provisions and blessings that God has given me

When we are young we are self-centered this makes sense as in our youth we are trying to figure out who we are why are we here

But if we never grow out of that phase then we will never grow to understand how we can serve others…

Example of Moses -

When he was a baby he cried for milk when he refused any nursing mother aside from his own mother.

[28:22] As he traveled towards Midyan, he said, "May my Lord guide me in the right path." [28:23] When he reached Midyan's water, he found a crowd of people watering, and noticed two women waiting on the side. He said, "What is it that you need?" They said, "We are not able to water, until the crowd disperses, and our father is an old man." [28:24] He watered for them, then turned to the shade, saying, "My Lord, whatever provision You send to me, I am in dire need for it." [28:25] Soon, one of the two women approached him, shyly, and said, "My father invites you to pay you for watering for us." When he met him, and told him his story, he said, "Have no fear. You have been saved from the oppressive people." 

Believing Nations Prosper

[10:98] Any community that believes will surely be rewarded for believing. For example, the people of Jonah: when they believed, we relieved the humiliating retribution they had been suffering in this world, and we made them prosperous. [10:99] Had your Lord willed, all the people on earth would have believed.* Do you want to force the people to become believers?

A society that believes in God will want to help out others in need.

Appreciative means grateful, helpful, charitable

Unappreciative ungrateful, self centered, selfish, stingy greedy

Done by choice not by force

Don’t attempt to outsource your righteous deeds for others to perform on your behalf

God's Mercy

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What about when the right path is almost impossible to find?

So I have been watching a Netflix series called Ozark and the premise of the show is how one family keeps getting further and further away from righteousness and how they keep thinking that if they just do one more bad deed they will be able to get back to their normal lives.

In one of the episodes of Ozark, one of the main characters made the following quote that really resonated with me.

“evil comes when the righteous path is so hidden it looks like there is only one way out.”

What do you do when you reach a crossroads and you are being tested and you know the right path but it is too hard to make the right decision?

Scent of a women - I’ve been to the crossroads

The question is what should we do when temptation is too high.

[29:2] Do the people think that they will be left to say, "We believe," without being put to the test? [29:3] We have tested those before them, for GOD must distinguish those who are truthful, and He must expose the liars.

God's Tests Are Never Unreasonable [4:66] Had we decreed for them: "You must offer your lives," or "Give up your homes," they would not have done it, except for a few of them. (Even if such a command was issued,) had they done what they were commanded to do, it would have been better for them, and would prove the strength of their faith.

In consumer electronics and specifically semiconductors there are different grades of product quality. And each grade was more expensive. 

• Commercial: 0 °C to 70 °C - test at 25C
• Industrial: −40 °C to 85 °C
• Automotive: −40 °C to 125 °C
• Military: −55 °C to 125 °C

The higher the test the higher the cause 

[6:132] Everyone will attain a rank commensurate with their deeds. Your Lord is never unaware of anything they do.

1. know what the right path is but too hard
2. Cognitive dissonance kicks in and convince yourself the wrong path is the right path

The right path is so blocked that it is almost impossible to see

The worst thing that can happen to someone is when they can’t differentiate right from wrong. And this occurs when we persist in sins knowingly.

Cognitive dissonance - people like to think that they are good righteous, virtuous, but when their actions do not align this causes discomfort and they have a choice

1. They can continue to try to improve and do better
2. They can convince themselves that their sins are actually righteous

Better to sin out of weakness and admit it is a sin rather than lie to one’s self and deny it is sinful or worst yet call it righteous

[35:8] Note the one whose evil work is adorned in his eyes, until he thinks that it is righteous. GOD thus sends astray whoever wills (to go astray), and He guides whoever wills (to be guided). Therefore, do not grieve over them. GOD is fully aware of everything they do.

(3) The Hypocrites

[2:8] Then there are those who say, "We believe in GOD and the Last Day," while they are not believers. [2:9] In trying to deceive GOD and those who believe, they only deceive themselves without perceiving. [2:10] In their minds there is a disease. Consequently, GOD augments their disease. They have incurred a painful retribution for their lying. [2:11] When they are told, "Do not commit evil," they say, "But we are righteous!" [2:12] In fact, they are evildoers, but they do not perceive.

[6:43] If only they implored when our test afflicted them! Instead, their hearts were hardened, and the devil adorned their works in their eyes.

[2:186] When My servants ask you about Me, I am always near. I answer their prayers when they pray to Me. The people shall respond to Me and believe in Me, in order to be guided.

[3:135] If they fall in sin or wrong their souls, they remember God and ask forgiveness for their sins - and who forgives the sins except God - and they do not persist in sins, knowingly.

Joseph being tempted 

[12:23] The lady of the house where he lived tried to seduce him. She closed the doors and said, "I am all yours." He said, "May GOD protect me. He is my Lord, who gave me a good home. The transgressors never succeed."

[12:24] She almost succumbed to him, and he almost succumbed to her, if it were not that he saw a proof from his Lord. We thus diverted evil and sin away from him, for he was one of our devoted servants. 

This revelation is not about an ordinary guy, it is about Joseph who was blessed with wisdom and knowledge. Joseph knew what is right and what is wrong but with all knowing, he was about to fail, but he was saved. How? Joseph was saved because he implored to God.

God save him by showing a proof from his lord, a mercy, how about us? Do we implore to God?

Or can we see a proof from the God when we are at a crossroad and temptation is too high? 

[17:73] They almost diverted you from the revelations we have given you. They wanted you to fabricate something else, in order to consider you a friend. [17:74] If it were not that we strengthened you, you almost leaned towards them just a little bit. [17:75] Had you done that, we would have doubled the retribution for you in this life, and after death, and you would have found no one to help you against us.

When we sin we are actively trying to block out God’s light

[74:38] Every soul is trapped by its sins. [74:39] Except for those on the right.

[6:122] Is one who was dead and we granted him life, and provided him with light that enables him to move among the people, equal to one in total darkness from which he can never exit? The works of the disbelievers are thus adorned in their eyes.

Light is what lets us know what is right and wrong so that we can get back on the right path

Trees move in the direction of the light

Kudzu plant will slowly grow over existing structures like trees and will block all sunlight from approaching the object and eventually kill the tree

All paths lead back to God so we can submit willingly or unwillingly but ultimately we will be returned to God and either be rewarded with Paradise or see the retribution of Hell

[13:15] To GOD prostrates everyone in the heavens and the earth, willingly or unwillingly, and so do their shadows in the mornings and the evenings.

What do we need to see something? 3 things:

1. We need eyes and a brain
2. We need light  and more importantly
3. We have to want to see

God's light is the same. We can see God's light with our hearts as long as we are not strayers and want to see God's signs by imploring to Him.

What is God’s light and what it does? 

There is only one verse in Quran that talks about Light Upon Light and that is when God explains.

God 

[24:35] GOD is the light of the heavens and the earth. The allegory of His light is that of a concave mirror behind a lamp that is placed inside a glass container. The glass container is like a bright, pearl-like star. The fuel thereof is supplied from a blessed oil-producing tree, that is neither eastern, nor western. Its oil is almost self-radiating; needs no fire to ignite it. Light upon light. GOD guides to His light whomever He wills. GOD thus cites the parables for the people. GOD is fully aware of all things.

What does God's light do? It provides guidance. 

When in the Contact Prayer, we say "Guide us to the right path the path of those whom You blessed; not of those who have deserved wrath, nor of the strayers.

We are asking God to turn on his light. It helps us to see the whole thing, our innermost egos and the consequences of our actions. 

It is interesting to mention that there is only one verse that talks about darkness upon darkness and this verse is in the same chapter of Light Upon Light, 5 verses below. There is something very unique about it that I have to share with you.

[24:40] Another allegory is that of being in total darkness in the midst of a violent ocean, with waves upon waves, in addition to thick fog. Darkness upon darkness—if he looked at his own hand, he could barely see it. Whomever GOD deprives of light, will have no light.

God talks about Darkness upon Darkness... the strange part is , in the same verse, God says "if he looked at his own hand, he could barely see it."; What does “barely” mean? You can barely see if there is tiny light otherwise you could see nothing. What does a tiny light is doing in the middle of Darkness Upon Darkness.

Do you know what is called that tiny light in total darkness?

HOPE

Never despair of God’s mercy. No matter what the odds are.

God's Infinite Mercy 

[39:53] Proclaim: "O My servants who exceeded the limits, never despair of GOD's mercy. For GOD forgives all sins. He is the Forgiver, Most Merciful."

It tells me no matter how darn the situation is, darkness upon darkness, there is always hope, a tiny shred of light, never despair.

[9:118] Also (redeemed were) the three who stayed behind. The spacious earth became so straitened for them, that they almost gave up all hope for themselves. Finally, they realized that there was no escape from God, except to Him. He then redeemed them that they may repent. God is the Redeemer, Most Merciful.

When is the best time to plant a tree 40 years ago when is the next best day today

[65:2] ...Anyone who reverences GOD, He will create an exit for him.  [65:3] And will provide for him whence he never expected. Anyone who trusts in GOD, He suffices him. GOD's commands are done. GOD has decreed for everything its fate.

[65:4] ...Anyone who reverences GOD, He makes everything easy for him.

[65:7]...GOD will provide ease after difficulty.

If you think that there isn't a way, rest assured that with God there is always a way.

In the heart to the Sahara desert is the Ubari sand sea

Swallows that left Nigeria have travelled 1 and a half thousand miles so far on their way to Europe

Luckily in the Ubari Sand Sea there is an oasis called Umm Al-maa

In the midst of the desert ancient ground water swells to the surface

And at first glance it looks like just what the swallows need for hydration in order to make their trip

But they must be careful because this oasis is poisonous

evaporation over the years has caused this oasis to be saltier than the sea and if that isn’t bad enough the place is infested with vast swarms of flies

But this plague is the swallows salvation because the flies are filled with fresh water that have been filtered from the brine

The birds get all the water and food they need from the flies bodies 

[2:214] Do you expect to enter Paradise without being tested like those before you? They were tested with hardship and adversity, and were shaken up, until the messenger and those who believed with him said, "Where is GOD's victory?" GOD's victory is near.

[2:286] GOD never burdens a soul beyond its means: to its credit is what it earns, and against it is what it commits. "Our Lord, do not condemn us if we forget or make mistakes. Our Lord, and protect us from blaspheming against You, like those before us have done. Our Lord, protect us from sinning until it becomes too late for us to repent. Pardon us and forgive us. You are our Lord and Master. Grant us victory over the disbelieving people."

For Me Not To Me

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Mary

[3:42] The angels said, "O Mary, GOD has chosen you and purified you. He has chosen you from all the women. [3:43] "O Mary, you shall submit to your Lord, and prostrate and bow down with those who bow down.” 

[3:45] The angels said, "O Mary, GOD gives you good news: a Word from Him whose name is 'The Messiah, Jesus the son of Mary.' He will be prominent in this life and in the Hereafter, and one of those closest to Me. [3:46] "He will speak to the people from the crib, as well as an adult; he will be one of the righteous.”

[19:23] The birth process came to her by the trunk of a palm tree. She said, "(I am so ashamed;) I wish I were dead before this happened, and completely forgotten."

[2:216] Fighting may be imposed on you, even though you dislike it. But you may dislike something which is good for you, and you may like something which is bad for you. GOD knows while you do not know.

[10:61] You do not get into any situation, nor do you recite any Quran, nor do you do anything, without us being witnesses thereof as you do it. Not even an atom's weight is out of your Lord's control, be it in the heavens or the earth. Nor is there anything smaller than an atom, or larger, that is not recorded in a profound record.

When faced with hardship do you believe: “this is happening to me” or “is this happening for me?”

Sura 18 - There is a good reason for everything

the people who own a boat;

the parents of the child;

the treasure for the orphans 

Job 3 1-7

1. After a while, Job opened his mouth to speak. He cursed the day he had been born. 2 He said, 3 “May the day I was born be wiped out. May the night be wiped away when people said, ‘A boy is born!’ 4 May that day turn into darkness. May God in heaven not care about it. May no light shine on it. 5 May gloom and total darkness take it back. May a cloud settle over it. May blackness cover it up. 6 May deep darkness take over the night I was born. May it not be included among the days of the year. May it never appear in any of the months. 7 May no children ever have been born on that night. May no shout of joy be heard in it.

Job 38:4 -7

“Where were you when I laid the earth’s foundation? Tell me, if you understand. 5 Who marked off its dimensions? Surely you know! Who stretched a measuring line across it? 6 On what were its footings set, or who laid its cornerstone— 7 while the morning stars sang together and all the angels[a] shouted for joy?

[21:83] And Job implored his Lord: "Adversity has befallen me, and, of all the merciful ones, You are the Most Merciful." [21:84] We responded to him, relieved his adversity, and restored his family for him, even twice as much. That was a mercy from us, and a reminder for the worshipers.

Example of Joseph -

• Left for dead by his brothers
• Sold into slavery
• Falsely accused and thrown into prison

Even if what happens is a consequence of our actions, God can use this for our good if we trust in Him. Tough Love

If we trust in God he can transform any situation

God who designed a system where:

coal can be transformed into diamonds,

sand into pearls,

and a caterpillar into a butterfly

can transform any situation in our lives as well. 

God who can take the most putrid water and transform it to clean fresh nourishing and delicious for us to drink can also take any situation in our life that the devil has made for our bad into being for our good

[56:68] Have you noted the water you drink? [56:69] Did you send it down from the clouds, or did we? [56:70] If we will, we can make it salty. You should be thankful.

[15:22] ... and cause water to come down from the sky for you to drink. Otherwise, you could not keep it palatable.

Joseph extended stay in prison

[12:36] Two young men were in the prison with him. One of them said, "I saw (in my dream) that I was making wine," and the other said, "I saw myself carrying bread on my head, from which the birds were eating. Inform us of the interpretation of these dreams. We see that you are righteous."

[12:41] "O my prison mates, one of you will be the wine butler for his lord, while the other will be crucified— the birds will eat from his head. This settles the matter about which you have inquired." [12:42] He then said to the one to be saved "Remember me at your lord."* Thus, the devil caused him to forget his Lord, and, consequently, he remained in prison a few more years.

Imagine trying to crack an egg prematurely to help the chick before it was ready to get out on it’s own

[32:21] We let them taste the smaller retribution (of this world), before they incur the greater retribution (of the Hereafter), that they may (take a hint and) reform.

How much worse would it be to spend an eternity in Hell rather than waking up and taking a hint now?

[4:147] What will GOD gain from punishing you, if you became appreciative and believed? GOD is Appreciative, Omniscient.

There is a season for everything - 

Sometimes a season for abundance and sometimes a season for scarcity 

The King's Dream [12:43] The king said, "I saw seven fat cows being devoured by seven skinny cows, and seven green spikes (of wheat), and others shriveled. O my elders, advise me regarding my dream, if you know how to interpret the dreams." [12:44] They said, "Nonsense dreams. When it comes to the interpretation of dreams, we are not knowledgeable." [12:45] The one who was saved (from the prison) said, now that he finally remembered, "I can tell you its interpretation, so send me (to Joseph)."

Joseph Interprets the King's Dream [12:46] "Joseph my friend, inform us about seven fat cows being devoured by seven skinny cows, and seven green spikes, and others shriveled. I wish to go back with some information for the people." [12:47] He said, "What you cultivate during the next seven years, when the time of harvest comes, leave the grains in their spikes, except for what you eat. [12:48] "After that, seven years of drought will come, which will consume most of what you stored for them. [12:49] "After that, a year will come that brings relief for the people, and they will, once again, press juice."

[3:140] If you suffer hardship, the enemy also suffers the same hardship. We alternate the days of victory and defeat among the people. GOD thus distinguishes the true believers, and blesses some of you with martyrdom. GOD dislikes injustice. [3:141] GOD thus toughens those who believe and humiliates the disbelievers.

[17:10] As for those who disbelieve in the Hereafter, we have prepared for them a painful retribution. [17:11] The human being often prays for something that may hurt him, thinking that he is praying for something good. The human being is impatient.

Things are happening for a purpose  – Trust the process 

[2:249] When Saul took command of the troops, he said, "GOD is putting you to the test by means of a stream. Anyone who drinks from it does not belong with me—only those who do not taste it belong with me—unless it is just a single sip." They drank from it, except a few of them. When he crossed it with those who believed, they said, "Now we lack the strength to face Goliath and his troops." Those who were conscious of meeting GOD said, "Many a small army defeated a large army by GOD's leave. GOD is with those who steadfastly persevere.”

[33:12] The hypocrites and those with doubts in their hearts said, "What GOD and His messenger promised us was no more than an illusion!" [33:13] A group of them said, "O people of Yathrib, you cannot attain victory; go back." Others made up excuses to the prophet: "Our homes are vulnerable," when they were not vulnerable. They just wanted to flee. [33:14] Had the enemy invaded and asked them to join, they would have joined the enemy without hesitation.

[33:22] When the true believers saw the parties (ready to attack), they said, "This is what GOD and His messenger have promised us, and GOD and His messenger are truthful." This (dangerous situation) only strengthened their faith and augmented their submission.

If we never move past from “Why is this happening to me” to “This is happing for me” then we could turn into hypocrites

[29:2] Do the people think that they will be left to say, "We believe," without being put to the test?

[29:10] Among the people there are those who say, "We believe in GOD," but as soon as they suffer any hardship because of GOD, they equate the people's persecution with GOD's retribution. But if blessings from your Lord come your way, they say, "We were with you." Is GOD not fully aware of the people's innermost thoughts? [29:11] GOD will most certainly distinguish those who believe, and He will most certainly expose the hypocrites.

[3:165] Now that you have suffered a setback, and even though you inflicted twice as much suffering (upon your enemy), you said, "Why did this happen to us?" Say, "This is a consequence of your own deeds." GOD is Omnipotent. [3:166] What afflicted you the day the two armies clashed was in accordance with GOD's will, and to distinguish the believers. [3:167] And to expose the hypocrites who were told, "Come fight in the cause of GOD, or contribute." They said, "If we knew how to fight, we would have joined you." They were closer to disbelief then than they were to belief. They uttered with their mouths what was not in their hearts. GOD knows what they conceal. [3:168] They said of their kinsmen, as they stayed behind, "Had they obeyed us, they would not have been killed." Say, "Then prevent your own death, if you are truthful."

Difference between a Submitter or Weak Believer and a Hypocrite

Difference between a Hypocrite and a weak believer is the weak believer knows what is right and what is wrong, but lacks the strength to go for the right path. The hypocrite on the other hand will change the definition of the right path to match their desires.

[9:118] Also (redeemed were) the three who stayed behind. The spacious earth became so straitened for them, that they almost gave up all hope for themselves. Finally, they realized that there was no escape from GOD, except to Him. He then redeemed them that they may repent. GOD is the Redeemer, Most Merciful.

[3:154] After the setback, He sent down upon you peaceful slumber that pacified some of you. Others among you were selfishly concerned about themselves. They harbored thoughts about GOD that were not right— the same thoughts they had harbored during the days of ignorance. Thus, they said, "Is anything up to us?" Say, "Everything is up to GOD." They concealed inside themselves what they did not reveal to you. They said, "If it was up to us, none of us would have been killed in this battle." Say, "Had you stayed in your homes, those destined to be killed would have crawled into their death beds." GOD thus puts you to the test to bring out your true convictions, and to test what is in your hearts. GOD is fully aware of the innermost thoughts.

Lot less concern on the outcome and more concern for the process

Marcus Lemonis - The Profit: people, process; profit

Can’t control the winds but we can adjust our sails 

We can’t control the outcome we can only control our input

Can you go through the experience and feel good about your decision?

Sow the seeds to gain the harvest

The farmer who trusts in God knows the process. They know that if they plant the right seeds and do the righteous works that they will reap the benefits regardless of the short term outcome or temporary “season”

Accumulation of what you do everyday

Accumulation of thousands of small decisions to push the lever to the other track 

Slight gradual change to big momentous shift

Stone cutter quote - “When nothing seems to help, I go back and look at the stonecutter hammering away at his rock perhaps a hundred times without as much as a crack showing in it. Yet at the hundred and first blow it will split in two, and I know it was not that blow that did it — but all that had gone before.”

[10:61] You do not get into any situation, nor do you recite any Quran, nor do you do anything, without us being witnesses thereof as you do it. Not even an atom's weight is out of your Lord's control, be it in the heavens or the earth. Nor is there anything smaller than an atom, or larger, that is not recorded in a profound record.

 

Boy named sue - Johnny Cash

 

Well my daddy left home when I was three

And he didn't leave much to Ma and me

Just this old guitar and an empty bottle of booze

Now, I don't blame him 'cause he run and hid

But the meanest thing that he ever did

Was before he left, he went and named me "Sue"

 

Well, he must o' thought that is quite a joke

And it got a lot of laughs from a' lots of folk

It seems I had to fight my whole life through

Some gal would giggle and I'd get red

And some guy'd laugh and I'd bust his head

I tell ya, life ain't easy for a boy named "Sue"

 

…

 

He stood there lookin' at me and I saw him smile

And he said, "Son, this world is rough

And if a man's gonna make it, he's gotta be tough

And I know I wouldn't be there to help you along

So I give you that name and I said goodbye

I knew you'd have to get tough or die

And it's the name that helped to make you strong"

 

He said, "Now you just fought one hell of a fight

And I know you hate me, and you got the right

To kill me now, and I wouldn't blame you if you do

But you ought to thank me, before I die

For the gravel in your guts and the spit in your eye

'Cause I'm the person that named you "Sue"

 

What could I do, what could I do

I got all choked up and I threw down my gun

Called him my Pa, and he called me his son

And I come away with a different point of view

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Outrage

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Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com

 

F$%! the poor video

Three kinds of people

1. the ones who are indifferent

2. The ones who only react when they are offended

3. The ones who give to charity in either situation

[7:176] Had we willed, we could have elevated him therewith, but he insisted on sticking to the ground, and pursued his own opinions. Thus, he is like the dog; whether you pet him or scold him, he pants. Such is the example of people who reject our proofs. Narrate these narrations, that they may reflect.

It is good to speak up, but it shouldn’t be the only time we react is to an external stimulus

This is the difference between a thermometer and a thermostat

• Thermometer only reacts to the external environment
• Thermostat adjusts the settings of the environment

If we are only going through life reacting to events then we are just being a thermometer

This isn’t bad, but it shouldn’t be our end destination. Think of these moments as our call to action.

David vs. Goliath

Example of Moses

• Kills a man
• Almost kills a person again
• Comes back as a change agent

Rather than just getting mad at the person who is saying these terrible things about the poor. Go and give to the poor.

[2:274] Those who give to charity night and day, secretly and publicly, receive their recompense from their Lord; they will have nothing to fear, nor will they grieve.

[3:92] You cannot attain righteousness until you give to charity from the possessions you love. Whatever you give to charity, GOD is fully aware thereof.

[25:63] The worshipers of the Most Gracious are those who tread the earth gently, and when the ignorant speak to them, they only utter peace.

[84:19] You will move from stage to stage.

Proverbs 9:10

The fear of the LORD is the beginning of wisdom, and knowledge of the Holy One is understanding.

[3:175] It is the devil's system to instill fear into his subjects. Do not fear them and fear Me instead, if you are believers.

The devil wants to fear, to incite, to get you outraged

But fear and outrage are not virtues

The question is what do you do when you experience them?

7 stages of grief

• Shock & Denial
• Pain & guilt
• Anger & bargaining
• Depression, reflection, loneliness
• The upward turn
• Reconstruction and working through
• Acceptance and hope

Why so angry?

Same thing we go from fear to love of God.

[72:13] " `When we heard the guidance, we believed therein. Anyone who believes in his Lord will never fear any injustice, nor any affliction.

Injustice only exists if you don’t believe in a Hereafter

[4:79] Anything good that happens to you is from GOD, and anything bad that happens to you is from you. We have sent you as a messenger to the people, and GOD suffices as witness.

It is easier to destroy than to build

************************************

Why do people like spicy food?

Believed to originally be because to mask the taste of food particularly meat that was not fresh.

Found that in climates the more hot the more the use of spices in their recipes

But this for the most part no longer applies as we have plenty of access to fresh meat by means of refrigeration yet I don’t think there is a decline in human desire towards spicy food

With the exception of the tree shrews, I don’t think there is any other mammal that has a fondness of spicy food

https://www.mnn.com/food/healthy-eating/stories/man-is-the-only-animal-to-find-pleasure-in-the-pain-of-peppers

https://www.nytimes.com/2010/09/21/science/21peppers.html?pagewanted=2&_r=2&ref=science

https://www.thrillist.com/health/nation/what-makes-some-people-like-spicy-food-and-others-hate-it

And the only reason that tree shrews like particular chili peppers is because they have a mutation that lowers the sensitivity to the compound that gives spicy food that burning sensation in all other mammals.

Dr. Paul Bloom: “How Pleasure Works: The New Science of Why We Like What We Like,”

• First we do it because we see other people doing it
• Then since we do it we convince ourselves that we like it
• Then we start actually liking it
• Then we want more and more of it to the point that regular food just tastes bland without it

This shows how we can train ourselves to like unpalatable things

This can be true for much of what we do.

Outrage associate the feeling with excitement

Animals, for the most part, don’t get angry (monkey grapes and cucumbers experiment)

Outrage is a learned behavior

Entice / provoke - devils tool

[17:64] "You may entice them with your voice, and mobilize all your forces and all your men against them, and share in their money and children, and promise them. Anything the devil promises is no more than an illusion.

How cheap is your happiness?

When we get angry and stay in a state of anger we are showing that we are doubting God’s promise…

[4:85] Whoever mediates a good deed receives a share of the credit thereof, and whoever mediates an evil work, incurs a share thereof. GOD controls all things.

Outrage has a social contagion effect

Pepsi commercial - Kendall Jenner

https://player.fm/series/what-really-happened-1638434/kendall-jenner-the-anatomy-of-an-advertising-disaster

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=dA5Yq1DLSmQ

How anger affects judgment - we make worse decisions

The average person didn’t think it was that bad

• between 18 - 29 years old 50% said it gave them a positive view of Pepsi, 26% less positive. 24% neutral

Experiment with music

Gave people a list of songs in one group they were told certain songs were liked more than the other and the other group was told the opposite

Netflix got rid of the star review system with a simple thumbs up or down. The reason is that everyone says they like movies like Shindler’s list and not Adam Sandler movies, but their viewing habits show otherwise.

We weigh negative critiques more than positive.

If someone tells you the food at somewhere is bad who is more likely not to go there? The one who went there and experienced that bad food or the one who never went there?

Need 10 positive reviews for each negative review

What message are we putting out to the world?

[9:15] He will also remove the rage from the believers' hearts. GOD redeems whomever He wills. GOD is Omniscient, Most Wise.

[5:2] O you who believe, do not violate the rites instituted by GOD, nor the Sacred Months, nor the animals to be offered, nor the garlands marking them, nor the people who head for the Sacred Shrine (Ka'bah) seeking blessings from their Lord and approval. Once you complete the pilgrimage, you may hunt.* Do not be provoked into aggression by your hatred of people who once prevented you from going to the Sacred Masjid. You shall cooperate in matters of righteousness and piety; do not cooperate in matters that are sinful and evil. You shall observe GOD. GOD is strict in enforcing retribution.

We have limited time and limited brain capacity are you going to focus on the things that make you mad or the the things to be grateful for? 

If you look at the world from a perspective of gratitude, looking to see joy and happiness, the brain will translate that joy and happiness into chemistry, such as a dopamine release from feeling pleasure.

Molecules of emotion  - peptides and receptors - feedback loop 

Happiness: Now and Forever* [10:62] Absolutely, GOD's allies have nothing to fear, nor will they grieve. [10:63] They are those who believe and lead a righteous life. [10:64] For them, joy and happiness in this world, as well as in the Hereafter. This is GOD's unchangeable law. Such is the greatest triumph.

Every time you focus on gratitude, you’re helping combat depression and anxiety by minimizing your cortisol production. 

https://qz.com/1463947/the-science-behind-the-health-benefits-of-a-daily-gratitude-practice/

Boredom is when our attention has been so dulled that we need some external stimuli to keep our mind occupied -

sensationalization of our external stimuli dulls our senses -

need outrage to keep us entertained

We would rather electrocute ourselves than spend time in our own thoughts. This was demonstrated in a controversial 2014 study in which 67 per cent of male participants and 25 per cent of female participants opted to give themselves unpleasant electric shocks rather than spend 15 minutes in peaceful contemplation.

Meditation is the act of getting back to baseline and being aware of your thoughts your surroundings being present - put things in perspective

Value What We Work For

Which friend would you value more?

Friend #1

• If you go out to eat they cover the bill
• If you are going to watch Netflix or go to a movie they let you pick what to watch
• They let you pick the music when you are driving
• They take care of you when you are sick
• They even cook and clean for you
• In short, they expect very little in return just some appreciation

Friend #2

• They always want to pick what to watch
• If you go out to eat they expect you to cover the bill
• If they don’t get their way they yell at you and get angry
• They expect you to do things for them - to cook for them and clean up after them
• In short, expect everything from you and provide very little in return

Why do we have more favor towards our children rather than our parents?

It doesn’t make sense our parents raised us,

• they took care of us,
• they fed us,
• provided us with shelter and protection,
• they poured tons of money and made huge sacrifices to raise us…

yet our children do the opposite

• They complain,
• they are mean to us,
• they demand things,
• they expect us to do things for them and to take care of them.

Not all of us are parents but all of us were children

Cake Mix

https://www.bonappetit.com/entertaining-style/pop-culture/article/cake-mix-history

When they first introduced cake mix in the 1930s it wasn’t a success until the 1950’s

The reason was that prior to 1950’s all one needed to do was just add water,

There was no sense of ownership or accomplishment - can’t take credit

In the 1950s they changed it where you would need to add eggs / sometimes butter and all of a sudden it was a big success?

You would think adding steps would be worse, but it made people’s love of the product more

Ikea Effect – Dan Ariely

The more effort we put into something the more we like it

Paper Origami experiment

Split up into two groups: Builder and Buyers

The builders would make the origami and the buyers would value the work

Builders value their work as more valuable then buyers

But builders also thought that other people would love their work more than they actually did

When they re-did the experiment and gave more difficult instructions regarding how to make the origami (so they took out some of the detail) the builders liked their work even more and the buyers valued it even less

This only holds true if the builder has something to show for in their endeavor - if they are left with a disappointed crumpled paper then this does not hold true.

Or if you cook dinner you think it taste better than others

Or if you make art

The effort we put into it is a big portion of how much we value it

Example of Adam and Eve - they were in Paradise they had everything it was just given to them, yet they gave it all up because they didn’t value what they had.

Abraham

[37:95] He said, "How can you worship what you carve? [37:96] "When GOD has created you, and everything you make!”

[26:69] Narrate to them Abraham's history. [26:70] He said to his father and his people, "What is this you are worshiping?" [26:71] They said, "We worship statues; we are totally devoted to them." [26:72] He said, "Can they hear you when you implore? [26:73] "Can they benefit you, or harm you?" [26:74] They said, "No; but we found our parents doing this."

[26:75] He said, "Do you see these idols that you worship. [26:76] "You and your ancestors. [26:77] "I am against them, for I am devoted only to the Lord of the universe. [26:78] "The One who created me, and guided me. [26:79] "The One who feeds me and waters me. [26:80] "And when I get sick, He heals me. [26:81] "The One who puts me to death, then brings me back to life. [26:82] "The One who hopefully will forgive my sins on the Day of Judgment.

[9:24] Proclaim: "If your parents, your children, your siblings, your spouses, your family, the money you have earned, a business you worry about, and the homes you cherish are more beloved to you than GOD and His messenger, and the striving in His cause, then just wait until GOD brings His judgment." GOD does not guide the wicked people.

[30:7] They care only about things of this world that are visible to them, while being totally oblivious to the Hereafter.

So we are here to learn appreciation for God and all that He has given us

[90:4] We created the human being to work hard (to redeem himself).*

This is the reason I believe God has set up rules and commandments for us to follow so we can earn our appreciation

• Getting up for Salat and performing it 5 times a day
• Giving Zakat
• Giving to charity
• Fasting during Ramadan
• War, fight battles, or persecution and oppression

We are working hard to foster the love with God that He deserves

The reason we are unappreciative is because we don’t value what we have not earned.

• • Go to a restaurant and get a food that is slightly off and we complain

• • Make a meal ourselves that at best could be considered so-so and we think it is the most delicious meal - and we contemplate opening a restaurant.

• • Go give someone a $1000 and see how much they value that money versus the person who earned $1000

I would say that it is even worse than just being unappreciative. We think that we are entitled to this and even more:

[18:36] “Moreover, I think this is it; I do not think that the Hour (the Hereafter) will ever come to pass. Even if I am returned to my Lord, I will (be clever enough to) possess an even better one over there.”

[41:49] The human being never tires of imploring for good things. And when adversity befalls him, he turns despondent, desperate. [41:50] And when we bless him after suffering some adversity, he says, "This belongs to me. I do not believe that the Hour will ever come to pass. Even if I am returned to my Lord, I will find at Him better things." Most certainly, we will inform the disbelievers of all their works, and will commit them to severe retribution. [41:51] When we bless the human being, he turns away, and drifts farther and farther away, and when he suffers any affliction, he implores loudly.

Importance of give from the things you earn…

[2:267] O you who believe, you shall give to charity from the good things you earn, and from what we have produced for you from the earth. Do not pick out the bad therein to give away, when you yourselves do not accept it unless your eyes are closed. You should know that GOD is Rich, Praiseworthy.

[3:92] You cannot attain righteousness until you give to charity from the possessions you love. Whatever you give to charity, GOD is fully aware thereof.

Supply and demand

• The more the supply the less the value proportional to demand
• But how does this work for God whose provisions are inexhaustible
• Who has infinite amounts of mercy and grace

[17:20] For each one of them we provide; we provide those and these from your Lord's bounties. Your Lord's bounties are inexhaustible.

[15:21] There is nothing that we do not own infinite amounts thereof. But we send it down in precise measure.

[6:147] If they disbelieve you, then say, "Your Lord possesses infinite mercy, but His retribution is unavoidable for the guilty people.”

[8:29] O you who believe, if you reverence GOD, He will enlighten you, remit your sins, and forgive you. GOD possesses infinite grace.

God intentionally made Himself scarce here on Earth to only be found by those who seek Him - Artificial Scarcity

[2:115] To GOD belongs the east and the west; wherever you go there will be the presence of GOD. GOD is Omnipresent, Omniscient.

[2:186] When My servants ask you about Me, I am always near. I answer their prayers when they pray to Me. The people shall respond to Me and believe in Me, in order to be guided.

The reality is that if God gave us everything we would transgress?

[42:27] If GOD increased the provision for His servants, they would transgress on earth. This is why He sends it precisely measured to whomever He wills. He is fully Cognizant and Seer of His servants.

[43:33] If it were not that all the people might become one (disbelieving) congregation, we would have granted everyone who disbelieves in the Most Gracious mansions with silver roofs, and stairs upon which they could climb.

The reason we are here is because we are profoundly unappreciative

God is Most Rich - Free of Need

[6:14] Say, "Shall I accept other than GOD as a Lord and Master, when He is the Initiator of the heavens and the earth, and He feeds but is not fed?" Say, "I am commanded to be the most devoted submitter, and, 'Do not be an idol worshiper.' “

[39:7] If you disbelieve, GOD does not need anyone. But He dislikes to see His servants make the wrong decision. If you decide to be appreciative, He is pleased for you. No soul bears the sins of any other soul. Ultimately, to your Lord is your return, then He will inform you of everything you had done. He is fully aware of the innermost thoughts.

God puts us in situations where we need Him and this is for our own good

[39:8] When the human being is afflicted, he implores his Lord, sincerely devoted to Him. But as soon as He blesses him, he forgets his previous imploring, sets up idols to rank with GOD and to divert others from His path. Say, "Enjoy your disbelief temporarily; you have incurred the hellfire."

[39:9] Is it not better to be one of those who meditate in the night, prostrating and staying up, being aware of the Hereafter, and seeking the mercy of their Lord?

[6:41] The fact is: only Him you implore, and He answers your prayer, if He so wills, and you forget your idols. [6:42] We have sent (messengers) to communities before you, and we put them to the test through adversity and hardship, that they may implore. [6:43] If only they implored when our test afflicted them! Instead, their hearts were hardened, and the devil adorned their works in their eyes.

[30:33] When adversity afflicts the people, they turn to their Lord, totally devoting themselves to Him. But then, as soon as He showers them with mercy, some of them revert to idol worship.* [30:34] Let them be unappreciative of what we have given them. Enjoy temporarily; you will surely find out.

*30:33 A common example is the classified advertisements we note in the newspapers, placed by people thanking St. Jude for healing them. Before undergoing surgery, they sincerely implore God to heal them. But as soon as the surgery succeeds, they thank St. Jude!!!

God utilizes another form of psychology: It hurts more to lose something than it feels good to gain

For example the pain of losing a dollar is always more than the joy one gets from losing a dollar

God gave us so much upfront and if we turn unappreciative He will take it away

- hearing, eyesight, bodies, families, friends, home, security etc.

At the same time if we haven’t earned something we value it less so I think this is why God deprives us of some things that we may become appreciative

Example of the people of Sheba

Marib Dam

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Marib_Dam

[34:15] Sheba's homeland used to be a marvel, with two gardens on the right and the left. Eat from your Lord's provisions, and be appreciative of Him—good land, and a forgiving Lord. [34:16] They turned away and, consequently, we poured upon them a disastrous flood, and we substituted their two gardens into two gardens of bad tasting fruits, thorny plants, and a skimpy harvest. [34:17] We thus requited them for their disbelief. Do we not requite only the disbelievers? [34:18] We placed between them and the communities that we blessed other oases, and we secured the journey between them: "Travel therein days and nights in complete security." [34:19] But they (turned unappreciative and) challenged: "Our Lord, we do not care if You increase the distance of our journeys (without any stations)." They thus wronged their own souls. Consequently, we made them history, and scattered them into small communities throughout the land. This should provide lessons for those who are steadfast, appreciative.

A mighty flood caused the dam of Marib to burst. This dam was located some 60 miles east of San’aa. The dam was about 5 miles long and 120ft high. The Sabean owed all their prosperity to it. Heavy flood and rain caused the dam to burst and undate the whole area causing widespread ruin. A land full of beautiful gardens, streams and great works of art were turned into vast waste. It was destroyed around the first century AD. 

VIDEO: ANCIENT CIVILIZATIONS : Ancient Persia and Arabian Peninsula @ 30min 25 seconds

https://youtu.be/0kenrpQS7qA?t=30m25s

I had surgery for hernia - couldn’t laugh / couldn’t go to the bathroom 

VIDEO: Boy Receives Enchroma Glasses From Father || ViralHog

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=-jHDyhJdDb8

Podcast Story

• Person is 75 years old then starts having stomach problems
• Goes to the doctor and the doctor tells him that he has stomach cancer and will need to operate immediately
• When the operation finishes the doctor says that it was a complete success and presents the old man with the bill
• The old man starts crying
• The doctor feels sorry and says if the bill is too high we can make adjustments to help
• The man replies that it is not the cost that is making him cry but the fact that God allowed him to eat for 75 years and never sent him a bill. 

[14:7] Your Lord has decreed: "The more you thank Me, the more I give you." But if you turn unappreciative, then My retribution is severe.

[22:73] O people, here is a parable that you must ponder carefully: the idols you set up beside GOD can never create a fly, even if they banded together to do so. Furthermore, if the fly steals anything from them, they cannot recover it; weak is the pursuer and the pursued. [22:74] They do not value GOD as He should be valued. GOD is the Most Powerful, the Almighty.

What we want to earn the most is God’s approval

[9:72] GOD promises the believing men and the believing women gardens with flowing streams, wherein they abide forever, and magnificent mansions in the gardens of Eden. And GOD's blessings and approval are even greater. This is the greatest triumph.

[25:77] Say, "You attain value at my Lord only through your worship. But if you disbelieve, you incur the inevitable consequences."

[3:174] They have deserved GOD's blessings and grace. No harm ever touches them, for they have attained GOD's approval. GOD possesses infinite grace.

Community

Animals and Birds: Submitting Creatures

[6:38] All the creatures on earth, and all the birds that fly with wings, are communities like you. We did not leave anything out of this book. To their Lord, all these creatures will be summoned.

List of animals mentioned in the Quran:

Elephant, Zebra, Lion, Fly, Mosquito, Raven, Camel, Sheep, goats, cattle, birds, dog, pig, ape, monkey, Cow, fish, serpent, donkey, locusts, butterfly, lice, frogs, horses, mules, quails, snake, wolf, Hoopoe, Spider, Ant, Bee,

Eusocial - (of an animal species, especially an insect) showing an advanced level of social organization, in which a single female or caste produces the offspring and nonreproductive individuals cooperate in caring for the young.

 

Ants, Bees, Termites

• Ant roles

David and Solomon

[27:15] We endowed David and Solomon with knowledge, and they said, "Praise GOD for blessing us more than many of His believing servants." [27:16] Solomon was David's heir. He said, "O people, we have been endowed with understanding the language of the birds, and all kinds of things have been bestowed upon us. This is indeed a real blessing." [27:17] Mobilized in the service of Solomon were his obedient soldiers of jinns and humans, as well as the birds; all at his disposal. [27:18] When they approached the valley of the ants, one ant said, "O you ants, go into your homes, lest you get crushed by Solomon and his soldiers, without perceiving.” [27:19] He smiled and laughed at her statement, and said, "My Lord, direct me to be appreciative of the blessings You have bestowed upon me and my parents, and to do the righteous works that please You. Admit me by Your mercy into the company of Your righteous servants.”

• • • Ant Colony
      • As the ant colony matures they are not as quick to go to battle and wage war against competing colonies

• Bees vs. Wasp
  • A single wasp can take on hundreds of bees killing unto 30 in a single attack
  • The bees fight back when the wasp stops to rest. They will lock onto the wasp in a group and start to vibrate in unison increasing the temperature inside their huddle till it cooks the wasp to death

Operate as a single organism

• Termite Mounds

 

[34:14] When the appointed time for his death came, they had no clue that he had died. Not until one of the animals (a creature of the earth) tried to eat his staff, and he fell down, that the jinns realized that he was dead. They thus realized that if they really knew the unseen, they would have stopped working so hard as soon as he died.

Never would the heart be so selfish to keep all the blood for itself

Operate by choice not by force

Disbelievers use force and intimidation / believers use logic and reason

• Pharaoh and Moses and Believing Egyptian

[20:47] "Go to him and say, 'We are two messengers from your Lord. Let the Children of Israel go. You must refrain from persecuting them. We bring a sign from your Lord, and peace is the lot of those who heed the guidance.

[20:69] "Throw what you hold in your right hand, and it will swallow what they fabricated. What they fabricated is no more than the scheming of a magician. The magician's work will not succeed." [20:70] The magicians fell prostrate, saying, "We believe in the Lord of Aaron and Moses." [20:71] He said, "Did you believe in him without my permission? He must be your chief; the one who taught you magic. I will surely sever your hands and feet on alternate sides. I will crucify you on the palm trunks. You will find out which of us can inflict the worst retribution, and who outlasts whom.”

• Are you going to force us

[7:88] The arrogant leaders among his people said, "We will evict you, O Shu'aib, together with those who believed with you, from our town, unless you revert to our religion." He said, "Are you going to force us? [7:89] "We would be blaspheming against GOD if we reverted to your religion after GOD has saved us from it. How could we revert back to it against the will of GOD our Lord? Our Lord's knowledge encompasses all things. We have put our trust in GOD. Our Lord, grant us a decisive victory over our people. You are the best supporter."

• Cain and Able

The First Murder* [5:27] Recite for them the true history of Adam's two sons. They made an offering, and it was accepted from one of them, but not from the other. He said, "I will surely kill you." He said, "GOD accepts only from the righteous. [5:28] "If you extend your hand to kill me, I am not extending my hand to kill you. For I reverence GOD, Lord of the universe. [5:29] "I want you, not me, to bear my sin and your sin, then you end up with the dwellers of Hell. Such is the requital for the transgressors." [5:30] His ego provoked him into killing his brother. He killed him, and ended up with the losers. [5:31] GOD then sent a raven to scratch the soil, to teach him how to bury his brother's corpse. He said, "Woe to me; I failed to be as intelligent as this raven, and bury my brother's corpse." He became ridden with remorse.

• Abraham and father (stone you)

[19:45] "O my father, I fear lest you incur retribution from the Most Gracious, then become an ally of the devil." [19:46] He said, "Have you forsaken my gods, O Abraham? Unless you stop, I will stone you. Leave me alone." [19:47] He said, "Peace be upon you. I will implore my Lord to forgive you; He has been Most Kind to me.

Socialist vs Libertarian

• God doesn’t force He exhorts and encourages
• People have to choose freely to be charitable

Disbelievers Compared to Several Animals in Quran

Spider

• Spidergoat

[29:41] The allegory of those who accept other masters beside GOD is that of the spider and her home; the flimsiest of all homes is the home of the spider, if they only knew.*

Locusts

[54:7] With their eyes humiliated, they come out of the graves like scattered locusts.

Locusts are just grasshoppers but when their population gets to be too dense a physiological response happens and they begin to swarm

Billions can gather forming swarms 40 miles wide. And they will consume all vegetation in their sight. An adult locusts can eat its own body weight every day. So a billion of these can eat hundreds of tons of vegetation each day.

When they swarm they are known to affect 1/5th of the earth’s surface from Africa through Asia and will affect 1 in 10 people’s livelyhood in the world.

Monkey and Pigs

[5:60] Say, "Let me tell you who are worse in the sight of GOD: those who are condemned by GOD after incurring His wrath until He made them (as despicable as) monkeys and pigs, and the idol worshipers. These are far worse, and farther from the right path."

Butterfly

One of natures great unsolved mysteries

Every year millions of monarch butterflies travel as far as 3,100 miles to the same place every year - migrating from Canada in the summer to Mexico in the winter

They travel on average of 74 miles a day

And to think that this creature the weighs less than a paperclip can make this amazing journey

But this isn’t the most amazing thing.

The generation that made the migration is known as the Methuselah generation and live only 8 months, but the round trip journey happens once a year

1. They will breed and their offspring lives for only about 4 - 5 weeks

2. Then that offspring will breed and they too will live for about 4 - 5 weeks,

3. Then that offspring will breed and they too will live for about 4 - 5 weeks at which point they are back in Canada for the summer

4. Then the Methuselah generation is born in the summer of Canada and will migrate all the way back south to Mexico a trip that their great-great grandparents had done before them.

So the migration is done by butterflies that have never made the migration before and have never been to the location.

Bird Murmuration

School of fish

These animals each single to one another their behavior and the remainder follow suit going along with the herd.

How do we operate in our own community

[31:18] "You shall not treat the people with arrogance, nor shall you roam the earth proudly. GOD does not like the arrogant showoffs. [31:19] "Walk humbly and lower your voice—the ugliest voice is the donkey's voice."

[90:10] Did we not show him the two paths? [90:11] He should choose the difficult path. [90:12] Which one is the difficult path? [90:13] The freeing of slaves. [90:14] Feeding, during the time of hardship. [90:15] Orphans who are related. [90:16] Or the poor who is in need. [90:17] And being one of those who believe, and exhorting one another to be steadfast, and exhorting one another to be kind. [90:18] These have deserved happiness.

[17:53] Tell My servants to treat each other in the best possible manner, for the devil will always try to drive a wedge among them. Surely, the devil is man's most ardent enemy.

Sura 49 is entitled The Walls

Reconcile The Believers

[49:9] If two groups of believers fought with each other, you shall reconcile them. If one group aggresses against the other, you shall fight the aggressing group until they submit to GOD's command. Once they submit, you shall reconcile the two groups equitably. You shall maintain justice; GOD loves those who are just.

The Real Family

[49:10] The believers are members of one family; you shall keep the peace within your family and reverence GOD, that you may attain mercy.

 

Believers Set the Example

[49:11] O you who believe, no people shall ridicule other people, for they may be better than they. Nor shall any women ridicule other women, for they may be better than they. Nor shall you mock one another, or make fun of your names. Evil indeed is the reversion to wickedness after attaining faith. Anyone who does not repent after this, these are the transgressors.

Suspicion Is Sinful

[49:12] O you who believe, you shall avoid any suspicion, for even a little bit of suspicion is sinful. You shall not spy on one another, nor shall you backbite one another; this is as abominable as eating the flesh of your dead brother. You certainly abhor this. You shall observe GOD. GOD is Redeemer, Most Merciful. The

Only Criterion For Distinguishing Among The People

[49:13] O people, we created you from the same male and female, and rendered you distinct peoples and tribes, that you may recognize one another. The best among you in the sight of GOD is the most righteous. GOD is Omniscient, Cognizant.

Sectarianism

Believers are United

[3:103] You shall hold fast to the rope of GOD, all of you, and do not be divided. Recall GOD's blessings upon you—you used to be enemies and He reconciled your hearts. By His grace, you became brethren. You were at the brink of a pit of fire, and He saved you therefrom. GOD thus explains His revelations for you, that you may be guided. [3:104] Let there be a community of you who invite to what is good, advocate righteousness, and forbid evil. These are the winners. [3:105] Do not be like those who became divided and disputed, despite the clear proofs that were given to them. For these have incurred a terrible retribution.

Religious Sects Condemned

[6:159] Those who divide themselves into sects do not belong with you. Their judgment rests with GOD, then He will inform them of everything they had done.

Sectarianism Condemned

[30:32] (Do not fall in idol worship,) like those who divide their religion into sects; each party rejoicing with what they have.

Basic Law Regulating Relations With Unbelievers

[60:8] GOD does not enjoin you from befriending those who do not fight you because of religion, and do not evict you from your homes. You may befriend them and be equitable towards them. GOD loves the equitable. [60:9] GOD enjoins you only from befriending those who fight you because of religion, evict you from your homes, and band together with others to banish you. You shall not befriend them. Those who befriend them are the transgressors.

[5:57] O you who believe, do not befriend those among the recipients of previous scripture who mock and ridicule your religion, nor shall you befriend the disbelievers. You shall reverence GOD, if you are really believers.

[60:13] O you who believe, do not befriend people with whom GOD is angry, and who are hopelessly stuck in disbelief; they are just as hopeless as the disbelievers who are already in the graves.

How to Deal with Hypocrites

How to Deal With the Hypocrites

[4:88] Why should you divide yourselves into two groups regarding hypocrites (among you)? GOD is the one who condemned them because of their own behavior. Do you want to guide those who are sent astray by GOD? Whomever GOD sends astray, you can never find a way to guide them.

[6:125] Whomever GOD wills to guide, He renders his chest wide open to Submission. And whomever He wills to send astray, He renders his chest intolerant and straitened, like one who climbs towards the sky. GOD thus places a curse upon those who refuse to believe.

Eagles and crows

The Hypocrites Drop Out [22:53] He thus sets up the devil's scheme as a test for those who harbor doubts in their hearts, and those whose hearts are hardened. The wicked must remain with the opposition.

When to draw the line?

[9:17] The idol worshipers are not to frequent the masjids of GOD, while confessing their disbelief. These have nullified their works, and they will abide forever in Hell. [9:18] The only people to frequent GOD's masjids are those who believe in GOD and the Last Day, and observe the Contact Prayers (Salat), and give the obligatory charity (Zakat), and do not fear except GOD. These will surely be among the guided ones.

[9:107] There are those who abuse the masjid by practicing idol worship, dividing the believers, and providing comfort to those who oppose GOD and His messenger. They solemnly swear: "Our intentions are honorable!" GOD bears witness that they are liars.

Aaron and the Children of Israel

[20:92] (Moses) said, "O Aaron, what is it that prevented you, when you saw them go astray, [20:93] "from following my orders? Have you rebelled against me?" [20:94] He said, "O son of my mother, do not pull me by my beard and my head. I was afraid that you might say, 'You have divided the Children of Israel, and disobeyed my orders.' “

[7:150] When Moses returned to his people, angry and disappointed, he said, "What a terrible thing you have done in my absence! Could you not wait for the commandments of your Lord?" He threw down the tablets, and took hold of his brother's head, pulling him towards himself. (Aaron) said, "Son of my mother, the people took advantage of my weakness, and almost killed me. Let not my enemies rejoice, and do not count me with the transgressing people.”

Baboons

In the 1980’s there were a couple of researchers studying a baboon troop in Kenya. 

The troop consisted of 62 baboons and had a traditional hierarchy with the alpha males on top and the matriarchs. The alphas were aggressive and harsh and fought to maintain their dominance.

One day the troop found a location that a local resort would use to dump their garbage.

This being a resort the garbage was full of food that the baboons took a real liking to so the troop spent their days living next to this location feasting on the garbage during the day each time there was a new delivery and sleeping and lounging the rest of the time.

In traditional hierarchical fashion the alphas got the choice selection of the food upon delivery.

One day the truck dumped meat and since this was a prize food to have access to the ones who ate the bulk of the meat were the alphas

It ends up the meat was contaminated and caused an outbreak of tuberculosis among the baboons.

This caused the alphas to die leaving only about half the males who were the least aggressive of the bunch along with the females and the young.

So what happened to this group?

Ends up that with the aggressive alpha males removed from the group the group was a lot more friendly to one another. Mutual grooming was more common among the group, less of a hierarchy, less fighting and here is the real interesting thing

As new males joined the group the quickly learned that if they tried to be aggressive or bullying that it wasn’t tolerated that they would be shunned, so for over 20 years this culture persisted despite only a single male from the original group surviving.

What kind of people is your community attracting?

Is your community drawing in sociopaths or people who are kind and humble 

Are you creating fertile soil for people who are kind and humble or violent and belligerent? 

If our community is a microcosm of society and if we can’t maintain the peace here what hope is there for a society of submitters

If we don’t apply God’s laws we get chaos

[8:73] Those who disbelieved are allies of one another. Unless you keep these commandments, there will be chaos on earth, and terrible corruption.

[56:90] And if he is one of the right— [56:91] peace is the lot of those on the right.

What kind of home are we making at our Masjids?

[33:34] Remember what is being recited in your homes of GOD's revelations and the wisdom inherent therein. GOD is Sublime, Cognizant.

Spectrum - Tolerance vs. Intolerance 

• “Anything goes” vs. “Only what I say goes”
  • Everyone is going to claim they are following the Quran

How To Be A Superhero

Subscribe to the podcast and show notes: https://qurantalk.podbean.com/

Quran translation on iOS: https://apple.co/2C1YGXj

Additional Resources: http://www.masjidtucson.org

Contact: qurantalk (at) gmail (dot) com

 

If you could have a super power what would it be?

Would you want to fly like Superman - faster than a speeding bullet

Or teleportation like Nightcrawler

Would you want to be super smart like professor Xavier

Or have rehealing process like Wolverine or an adamantium skeleton

As you are thinking which superpower you would want to have pay attention to your thought process?

What are you thinking as you are assessing any one of these superpowers?

Are you thinking that maybe if you had the ability to fly that you would never have to pay for a plane ticket again or commute to work

Are you thinking that maybe if you had super strength you could be a professional athlete, join the Olympics, impress people at the gym?

Or if you were super smart you could be the world’s best investor or be the next Bill Gates or Mark Zuckerberg and imagine how much money you could make?

So did you think of what superpower you want and did you pay attention to what made you want to select that superpower?

If so, now ask yourself did the reason you want that superpower was so you could benefit others or so you could benefit yourself?

If it was to benefit yourself then I am sorry to tell you this but that would make you more akin to being a supervillain and not a superhero. 

A supervillain is someone who has superpowers that they utilize to benefit themselves

A superhero on the other hand has superpowers and their being revolves around using these superpowers to help others 

What is funny is you can ask hundreds of people this question and rarely will you hear someone say they would use their superpower to fight crime. 

People like to think that when they watch a movie like Schindler’s List that they would be Schindler

But realistically they are much more likely to be one of the Nazi’s or the many who didn’t fight the status quo and quietly went along hoping they wouldn’t be drawn to attention 

God has given each of us God-given

[2:3] who believe in the unseen, observe the Contact Prayers (Salat)*, and from our provisions to them, they give to charity.

Moses had strength

Moses Commits Manslaughter

[28:15] Once he entered the city unexpectedly, without being recognized by the people. He found two men fighting; one was (a Hebrew) from his people, and the other was (an Egyptian) from his enemies. The one from his people called on him for help against his enemy. Moses punched him, killing him. He said, "This is the work of the devil; he is a real enemy, and a profound misleader."

[28:16] He said, "My Lord, I have wronged my soul. Please forgive me," and He forgave him. He is the Forgiver, Most Merciful. [28:17] He said, "My Lord, in return for Your blessings upon me, I will never be a supporter of the guilty ones." [28:18] In the morning, he was in the city, afraid and watchful. The one who sought his help yesterday, asked for his help again. Moses said to him, "You are really a troublemaker."

Moses' Crime Exposed

[28:19] Before he attempted to strike their common enemy, he said, "O Moses, do you want to kill me, as you killed the other man yesterday? Obviously, you wish to be a tyrant on earth; you do not wish to be righteous." [28:20] A man came running from the other side of the city, saying, "O Moses, the people are plotting to kill you. You better leave immediately. I am giving you good advice." [28:21] He fled the city, afraid and watchful. He said, "My Lord, save me from the oppressive people.”

[28:22] As he traveled towards Midyan, he said, "May my Lord guide me in the right path." [28:23] When he reached Midyan's water, he found a crowd of people watering, and noticed two women waiting on the side. He said, "What is it that you need?" They said, "We are not able to water, until the crowd disperses, and our father is an old man." [28:24] He watered for them, then turned to the shade, saying, "My Lord, whatever provision You send to me, I am in dire need for it.”

Sir Nicholas Winton from London (late 20’s)  WWII

• • Prague saved 669 children
  • On a ski vacation to Switzerland
  • 1938 violence against Jews was escalating went to Prague Czechoslovakia to see if there is anything he could do to help
  • For almost 50 years he hardly told anyone about what he had accomplished
  • For almost 50 years the children didn’t know who saved them or how
  • October 1st 1938 Nazi’s march into Czechoslovakia
  • Prague the Czech capital was flooded with people trying to escape
  • A fortunate few were able to send their children abroad
  • Back in London Winton was a successful stock broker with a passion for sports
  • Winton went to go visit the camps in Czech where people were displaced and it was cold some 150k people
  • Winton wanted to see how he could at least get the children out of there
  • He had no experience in this work
  • No country would take any of the children and started to pressure the British government to accept the children - they agreed only if he could find families willing to take the children - so he started making advertisements with the children to get family to accept them
  • First 20 children left Prague March 14 1939
  • Next Day German troops occupied Prague with Hitler himself riding through the streets triumphant
  • 1988 the BBC heard about his story and had him be part of a program
  • So what did he do for the last 50 years?
  • Building homes for the elderly and helping mentally handicapped people
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=c0aoifNziKQ
  • https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ERbSldmUmRA

[59:9] As for those who provided them with a home and a refuge, and were believers before them, they love those who immigrated to them, and find no hesitation in their hearts in helping them. In fact, they readily give them priority over themselves, even when they themselves need what they give away. Indeed, those who overcome their natural stinginess are the successful ones.

Golden Gate bridge suicide if just one person smiles at me I will not kill myself

https://www.calfussman.com/podcasts/2018/8/28/kevin-hines-whatever-your-difficulties-never-count-yourself-out-never-never-never

[57:11] Who would like to loan God a loan of righteousness, to have it multiplied for him manifold, and end up with a generous recompense?

Would you prefer to meet the person who will give you money or an opportunity to do charity? 

One is for the pleasures of this world the other is for the Hereafter

Solomon - Who is Doing Who A Favor - What is our Priority

[38:32] He then said, "I enjoyed the material things more than I enjoyed worshiping my Lord, until the sun was gone.*

 

Qãroon

[28:76] Qãroon (the slave driver) was one of Moses' people who betrayed them and oppressed them. We gave him so many treasures that the keys thereof were almost too heavy for the strongest band. His people said to him, "Do not be so arrogant; GOD does not love those who are arrogant.

[28:77] "Use the provisions bestowed upon you by GOD to seek the abode of the Hereafter, without neglecting your share in this world. Be charitable, as GOD has been charitable towards you. Do not keep on corrupting the earth. GOD does not love the corruptors."

[2:195] You shall spend in the cause of GOD; do not throw yourselves with your own hands into destruction. You shall be charitable; GOD loves the charitable.

Everything we have is because God has lent it to us. There is nothing in this world that we will bring with us to the Hereafter. Everything we have will be inherited by others after we pass.

[28:78] He said, "I attained all this because of my own cleverness." Did he not realize that GOD had annihilated before him generations that were much stronger than he, and greater in number? The (annihilated) transgressors were not asked about their crimes.

Reflections

[56:57] We have created you, if you could only believe! [56:58] Have you noted the semen that you produce? [56:59] Did you create it, or did we? [56:60] We have predetermined death for you. Nothing can stop us— [56:61] from substituting new generations in your place, and establishing what you do not know. [56:62] You know about the first creation. Do you not remember? [56:63] Have you noted the crops you reap? [56:64] Did you grow them, or did we? [56:65] If we will, we can turn it into hay. Then you will lament: [56:66] "We lost. [56:67] "We are deprived." [56:68] Have you noted the water you drink? [56:69] Did you send it down from the clouds, or did we? [56:70] If we will, we can make it salty. You should be thankful. [56:71] Have you noted the fire you ignite? [56:72] Did you initiate its tree, or did we? [56:73] We rendered it a reminder, and a useful tool for the users. [56:74] You shall glorify the name of your Lord, the Great.

[28:79] One day, he came out to his people in full splendor. Those who preferred this worldly life said, "Oh, we wish that we possess what Qãroon has attained. Indeed, he is very fortunate."

The Real Wealth

[28:80] As for those who were blessed with knowledge, they said, "Woe to you, GOD's recompense is far better for those who believe and lead a righteous life." None attains this except the steadfast.

The Tyrants' Inevitable Fate

[28:81] We then caused the earth to swallow him and his mansion. No army could have helped him against GOD; he was not destined to be a winner. [28:82] Those who were envious of him the day before said, "Now we realize that GOD is the One who provides for whomever He chooses from among His servants, and withholds. If it were not for GOD's grace towards us, He could have caused the earth to swallow us too. We now realize that the disbelievers never succeed.”

Qaroon was selfish - only think about himself how his blessings could benefit himself at the expense of others

Qaroon was vain - he exalted himself he boasted about his provisions

Story of Sindhutai Sapkal

More likely do more for yourself or for others purpose greater than one self

[23:57] Surely, those who are reverently conscious of their Lord, [23:58] And who believe in the revelations of their Lord, [23:59] And who never set up any idols beside their Lord, [23:60] As they give their charities, their hearts are fully reverent. For they recognize that they will be summoned before their Lord, [23:61] They are eager to do righteous works; they compete in doing them.

[90:11] He should choose the difficult path. [90:12] Which one is the difficult path? [90:13] The freeing of slaves. [90:14] Feeding, during the time of hardship. [90:15] Orphans who are related. [90:16] Or the poor who is in need. [90:17] And being one of those who believe, and exhorting one another to be steadfast, and exhorting one another to be kind. [90:18] These have deserved happiness.

Perfect Vengeance

What do you think the proper response should be for people who wish us ill? People who want to see us abandon God and our religion. People that want to see us disbelieve?

[2:109] Many followers of the scripture would rather see you revert to disbelief, now that you have believed. This is due to jealousy on their part, after the truth has become evident to them. You shall pardon them, and leave them alone, until GOD issues His judgment. GOD is Omnipotent.

[2:110] You shall observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) and give the obligatory charity (Zakat). Any good you send forth on behalf of your souls, you will find it at GOD. GOD is seer of everything you do.

Don’t Get Mad, Get Even

Don’t Get Mad, Get More Righteous

[15:94] Therefore, carry out the orders given to you, and disregard the idol worshipers. [15:95] We will spare you the mockers, [15:96] who set up another god beside GOD. They will surely find out. [15:97] We know full well that you may be annoyed by their utterances. [15:98] You shall sing the praises of your Lord, and be with the prostrators. [15:99] And worship your Lord, in order to attain certainty.*

If you want to get vengeance become a better person

If you spend the energy to get the revenge on improving your soul the rewards will be far better:

[2:245] Who would lend GOD a loan of righteousness, to have it repaid to them multiplied manifold? GOD is the One who provides and withholds, and to Him you will be returned.

[2:261] The example of those who spend their monies in the cause of GOD is that of a grain that produces seven spikes, with a hundred grains in each spike. GOD multiplies this manifold for whomever He wills. GOD is Bounteous, Knower.

Think about all the time we spend mulling over in our heads about how we were wronged, I can’t believe they did that, how can I retaliate…If instead we spend that time making our selves a better person not only will we be better off spiritually but also emotionally and mentally

[13:22] They steadfastly persevere in seeking their Lord, observe the Contact Prayers (Salat), spend from our provisions to them secretly and publicly, and counter evil with good. These have deserved the best abode.

[28:54] To these we grant twice the reward, because they steadfastly persevere. They counter evil works with good works, and from our provisions to them, they give. [28:55] When they come across vain talk, they disregard it and say, "We are responsible for our deeds, and you are responsible for your deeds. Peace be upon you. We do not wish to behave like the ignorant ones.”

[3:134] who give to charity during the good times, as well as the bad times. They are suppressors of anger, and pardoners of the people. GOD loves the charitable.

When we hold on to anger and resentment, we are only hurting ourselves.

holding onto anger is like holding a hot coal with the intention of throwing it at someone else.

[23:96] Therefore, counter their evil works with goodness; we are fully aware of their claims.

To Be Protected From Satan

[23:97] Say, "My Lord, I seek refuge in You from the whispers of the devils. [23:98] "And I seek refuge in You, my Lord, lest they come near me.”

Submitters

[41:33] Who can utter better words than one who invites to GOD, works righteousness, and says, "I am one of the submitters"? [41:34] Not equal is the good response and the bad response. You shall resort to the nicest possible response. Thus, the one who used to be your enemy, may become your best friend. [41:35] None can attain this except those who steadfastly persevere. None can attain this except those who are extremely fortunate.

Example of Joseph and his brothers or the governor's wife

When the Devil Entices You

[41:36] When the devil whispers an idea to you, you shall seek refuge in GOD. He is the Hearer, the Omniscient.

[7:198] When you invite them to the guidance, they do not hear. And you see them looking at you, but they do not see. [7:199] You shall resort to pardon, advocate tolerance, and disregard the ignorant.

[7:200] When the devil whispers to you any whisper, seek refuge in GOD; He is Hearer, Omniscient. [7:201] Those who are righteous, whenever the devil approaches them with an idea, they remember, whereupon they become seers. [7:202] Their brethren ceaselessly entice them to go astray.

Don’t pray that it is easier pray to be better

Do Not Use Bad Language

[4:148] GOD does not like the utterance of bad language, unless one is treated with gross injustice. GOD is Hearer, Knower. [4:149] If you work righteousness—either declared or concealed—or pardon a transgression, GOD is Pardoner, Omnipotent.

• Joseph sold to slavery - did better
• Joseph sent to prison - did better
• Or Joseph’s prison mate forgetting about him

[4:146] Only those who repent, reform, hold fast to GOD, and devote their religion absolutely to GOD alone, will be counted with the believers. GOD will bless the believers with a great recompense.

[4:147] What will GOD gain from punishing you, if you became appreciative and believed? GOD is Appreciative, Omniscient.

We can stand up for our rights

This isn’t if we get slapped on one cheek we give the other

Submitters are not cowards

The examples given are people who are not using physical force against us, God tells us that in such scenarios we can defend ourselves

God tells us that aggression is only permitted against the aggressors and that oppression is worse than murder

Divine Help for the Oppressed

[22:60] It is decreed that if one avenges an injustice that was inflicted upon him, equitably, then is persecuted because of this, GOD will surely support him. GOD is Pardoner, Forgiving.

You Shall Be Prepared: A Divine Commandment

[8:60] You shall prepare for them all the power you can muster, and all the equipment you can mobilize, that you may frighten the enemies of GOD, your enemies, as well as others who are not known to you; GOD knows them. Whatever you spend in the cause of GOD will be repaid to you generously, without the least injustice. [8:61] If they resort to peace, so shall you, and put your trust in GOD. He is the Hearer, the Omniscient.

But there is a difference between knowing you can retaliate and wanting to and choosing not to and cowering because we are scared to stand up for our rights

Don’t turn your shortcomings into virtues

Traits of the Believers

[42:37] They avoid gross sins and vice, and when angered they forgive. [42:38] They respond to their Lord by observing the Contact Prayers (Salat). Their affairs are decided after due consultation among themselves, and from our provisions to them they give (to charity). [42:39] When gross injustice befalls them, they stand up for their rights. [42:40] Although the just requital for an injustice is an equivalent retribution, those who pardon and maintain righteousness are rewarded by GOD. He does not love the unjust. [42:41] Certainly, those who stand up for their rights, when injustice befalls them, are not committing any error. [42:42] The wrong ones are those who treat the people unjustly, and resort to aggression without provocation. These have incurred a painful retribution. [42:43] Resorting to patience and forgiveness reflects a true strength of character.

How to Spread God's Message

[16:125] You shall invite to the path of your Lord with wisdom and kind enlightenment, and debate with them in the best possible manner. Your Lord knows best who has strayed from His path, and He knows best who are the guided ones. [16:126] And if you punish, you shall inflict an equivalent punishment. But if you resort to patience (instead of revenge), it would be better for the patient ones. [16:127] You shall resort to patience—and your patience is attainable only with GOD's help. Do not grieve over them, and do not be annoyed by their schemes. [16:128] GOD is with those who lead a righteous life, and those who are charitable.

Righteousness is the solution to all our problems

[74:56] They cannot take heed against GOD's will. He is the source of righteousness; He is the source of forgiveness.

 

Don't Turn God's Blessings Into Idols

Don’t Turn God’s Blessing into Idols 

God gave each of us so many blessings 

[16:18] If you count God's blessings, you cannot possibly encompass them. God is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

[14:34] And He gives you all kinds of things that you implore Him for. If you count God's blessings, you can never encompass them. Indeed, the human being is transgressing, unappreciative.  

When God blesses us we have a tendency to turn those blessings into idols that actually repulse us from God and from acting in a way that is pleasing to him

[41:50] And when we bless him after suffering some adversity, he says, "This belongs to me. I do not believe that the Hour will ever come to pass. Even if I am returned to my Lord, I will find at Him better things." Most certainly, we will inform the disbelievers of all their works, and will commit them to severe retribution.

[17:83] When we bless the human being, he becomes preoccupied and heedless. But when adversity strikes him, he turns despondent.

Exodus 12:31-36

The Exodus Begins 31Then Pharaoh summoned Moses and Aaron by night and said, “Get up, leave my people, both you and the Israelites! Go, worship the LORD as you have requested. 32Take your flocks and herds as well, just as you have said, and depart! And bless me also.” 33 And in order to send them out of the land quickly, the Egyptians urged the people on. “For otherwise,” they said, “we are all going to die!” 34 So the people took their dough before it was leavened, carrying it on their shoulders in kneading bowls wrapped in clothing. 35 Furthermore, the Israelites acted on Moses’ word and asked the Egyptians for articles of silver and gold, and for clothing. 36 And the LORD gave the people such favor in the sight of the Egyptians that they granted their request. In this way they plundered the Egyptians.

[20:87] They said, "We did not break our agreement with you on purpose. But we were loaded down with jewelry, and decided to throw our loads in. This is what the Samarian suggested." [20:88] He produced for them a sculpted calf, complete with a calf's sound. They said, "This is your god, and the god of Moses." Thus, he forgot. [20:89] Could they not see that it neither responded to them, nor possessed any power to harm them, or benefit them

When we become slaves to these blessings we are making these blessings into our idols 

When we idolize something we are slaves to that thing

Slave to our children

• Our spouses
• Our business
• Our property
• Our selves 
• Our ego 

[2:61] Recall that you said, "O Moses, we can no longer tolerate one kind of food. Call upon your Lord to produce for us such earthly crops as beans, cucumbers, garlic, lentils, and onions." He said, "Do you wish to substitute that which is inferior for that which is good? Go down to Egypt, where you can find what you asked for." They have incurred condemnation, humiliation, and disgrace, and brought upon themselves wrath from GOD. This is because they rejected GOD's revelations, and killed the prophets unjustly. This is because they disobeyed and transgressed.

[14:7] Your Lord has decreed: "The more you thank Me, the more I give you." But if you turn unappreciative, then My retribution is severe.

Whatever occupies our mind most of the day becomes our idol

[33:41] O you who believe, you shall remember GOD frequently. [33:42] You shall glorify Him day and night.

Those who make this world a priority are like those who only drink salt water. It will never quench their thirst and it will only make them more thirsty

But those who make the hereafter their priority this is like drinking fresh water. Not only are you going to feel full but your body and soul will actually be hydrated.

[24:39] As for those who disbelieve, their works are like a mirage in the desert. A thirsty person thinks that it is water. But when he reaches it, he finds that it is nothing, and he finds God there instead, to requite him fully for his works. God is the most efficient reckoner.

[13:14] Imploring Him is the only legitimate supplication, while the idols they implore beside Him, cannot ever respond. Thus, they are like those who stretch their hands to the water, but nothing reaches their mouths. The supplications of the disbelievers are in vain.

Idolizing Our Children

Our Children Can be Idols

[7:189] He created you from one person (Adam). Subsequently, He gives every man a mate to find tranquility with her. She then carries a light load that she can hardly notice. As the load gets heavier, they implore GOD their Lord: "If You give us a good baby, we will be appreciative." [7:190] But when He gives them a good baby, they turn His gift into an idol that rivals Him. GOD be exalted, far above any partnership. [7:191] Is it not a fact that they are idolizing idols who create nothing, and are themselves created?

[64:14] O you who believe, your spouses and your children can be your enemies; beware. If you pardon, forget, and forgive, then God is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

[9:85] Do not be impressed by their money or their children; God causes these to be sources of misery for them in this world, and their souls depart as disbelievers.

[25:73] When reminded of their Lord's revelations, they never react to them as if they were deaf and blind. [25:74] And they say, "Our Lord, let our spouses and children be a source of joy for us, and keep us in the forefront of the righteous."

Property as an Idol* 

[18:32] Cite for them the example of two men: we gave one of them two gardens of grapes, surrounded by date palms, and placed other crops between them. Footnote [18:33] Both gardens produced their crops on time, and generously, for we caused a river to run through them. [18:34] Once, after harvesting, he boastfully told his friend: "I am far more prosperous than you, and I command more respect from the people." [18:35] When he entered his garden, he wronged his soul by saying, "I do not think that this will ever end. [18:36] "Moreover, I think this is it; I do not think that the Hour (the Hereafter) will ever come to pass. Even if I am returned to my Lord, I will (be clever enough to) possess an even better one over there." [18:37] His friend said to him, as he debated with him, "Have you disbelieved in the One who created you from dust, then from a tiny drop, then perfected you into a man? [18:38] "As for me, GOD is my Lord, and I will never set up any other god besides my Lord. 

Important Commandment 

[18:39] "When you entered your garden, you should have said, 'This is what GOD has given me. No one possesses power except GOD.' You may see that I possess less money and less children than you. [18:40] "My Lord may grant me better than your garden. He may send a violent storm from the sky that wipes out your garden, leaving it completely barren. [18:41] "Or, its water may sink deeper, out of your reach." [18:42] Indeed, his crops were wiped out, and he ended up sorrowful, lamenting what he had spent on it in vain, as his property lay barren. He finally said, "I wish I never set up my property as a god beside my Lord." [18:43] No force on earth could have helped him against GOD, nor was it possible for him to receive any help. [18:44] That is because the only true Lord and master is GOD; He provides the best recompense, and with Him is the best destiny. 

[18:45] Cite for them the example of this life as water that we send down from the sky to produce plants of the earth, then they turn into hay that is blown away by the wind. GOD is able to do all things. 

Rearranging Our Priorities 

[18:46] Money and children are the joys of this life, but the righteous works provide an eternal recompense from your Lord, and a far better hope.

[68:17] We have tested them like we tested the owners of the garden who swore that they will harvest it in the morning. [68:18] They were so absolutely sure. [68:19] A passing (storm) from your Lord passed by it while they were asleep. [68:20] By morning, it was barren. [68:21] They called on each other in the morning. [68:22] "Let us harvest the crop." [68:23] On their way, they confided to each other. [68:24] That from then on, none of them would be poor. [68:25] They were so absolutely sure of their harvest. [68:26] But when they saw it, they said, "We were so wrong! [68:27] "Now, we have nothing!" They

Should Have Said: "God Willing."

[68:28] The righteous among them said, "If only you had glorified (God)!" [68:29] They said, "Glory be to our Lord. We have transgressed." [68:30] They started to blame each other. [68:31] They said, "Woe to us. We sinned. [68:32] "May our Lord grant us a better one. We repent to our Lord." [68:33] Such was the requital. But the retribution of the Hereafter is far worse, if they only knew.

If you take the instruction regarding your salvation from anyone other than God then that source becomes your god. 

[6:121] Do not eat from that upon which the name of GOD has not been mentioned, for it is an abomination. The devils inspire their allies to argue with you; if you obey them, you will be idol worshipers.*

[36:60] Did I not covenant with you, O Children of Adam, that you shall not worship the devil? That he is your most ardent enemy? [36:61] And that you shall worship Me alone? This is the right path.

[9:24] Proclaim: "If your parents, your children, your siblings, your spouses, your family, the money you have earned, a business you worry about, and the homes you cherish are more beloved to you than GOD and His messenger, and the striving in His cause, then just wait until GOD brings His judgment." GOD does not guide the wicked people.

Ego as a god

[25:43] Have you seen the one whose god is his own ego? Will you be his advocate?

How Can You Stand That Which You Do Not Comprehend?

[3:154] …They said, "If it was up to us, none of us would have been killed in this battle." Say, "Had you stayed in your homes, those destined to be killed would have crawled into their death beds."

[3:156] O you who believe, do not be like those who disbelieved and said of their kinsmen who traveled or mobilized for war, "Had they stayed with us, they would not have died or gotten killed." GOD renders this a source of grief in their hearts. GOD controls life and death. GOD is Seer of everything you do.

Never fear never grief

[16:1] GOD's command has already been issued (and everything has already been written), so do not rush it.* Be He glorified; the Most High, far above any idols they set up.

[57:22] Anything that happens on earth, or to you, has already been recorded, even before the creation. This is easy for GOD to do.

Moses and his Teacher

[18:68] "How can you stand that which you do not comprehend?”

Moses mother threw Moses into the river

Jospeh’s brother threw him into the well

Gross Injustice / Bad Language

[4:148] GOD does not like the utterance of bad language, unless one is treated with gross injustice. GOD is Hearer, Knower.

[4:43] O you who believe, do not observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) while intoxicated, so that you know what you are saying.

[5:90] O you who believe, intoxicants, and gambling, and the altars of idols, and the games of chance are abominations of the devil; you shall avoid them, that you may succeed.

Was Joseph thrown into prison bad?

[2:281] Beware of the day when you are returned to GOD, and every soul is paid for everything it had done, without the least injustice.

Shows we believe in the Hereafter

[4:40] GOD does not inflict an atom's weight of injustice. On the contrary, He multiplies the reward manifold for the righteous work, and grants from Him a great recompense.

If you believe God is doing everything we would never fear injustice

[72:13] "'When we heard the guidance, we believed therein. Anyone who believes in his Lord will never fear any injustice, nor any affliction.

To God belongs the ultimate scheming - He holds all the cards

[13:42] Others before them have schemed, but to GOD belongs the ultimate scheming. He knows what everyone is doing. The disbelievers will find out who the ultimate winners are.

[8:30] The disbelievers plot and scheme to neutralize you, or kill you, or banish you. However, they plot and scheme, but so does GOD. GOD is the best schemer.

Coyote and the Road Runner

Knowing God

[10:61] You do not get into any situation, nor do you recite any Quran, nor do you do anything, without us being witnesses thereof as you do it. Not even an atom's weight is out of your Lord's control, be it in the heavens or the earth. Nor is there anything smaller than an atom, or larger, that is not recorded in a profound record.

Happiness: Now and Forever*

[10:62] Absolutely, GOD's allies have nothing to fear, nor will they grieve.

[10:63] They are those who believe and lead a righteous life.

[10:64] For them, joy and happiness in this world, as well as in the Hereafter. This is GOD's unchangeable law. Such is the greatest triumph.

 

God's Cryptography

[6:59] With Him are the keys to all secrets; none knows them except He. 

Sexism In The Quran

[2:49/7:141] Recall that we saved you from Pharaoh's people who inflicted upon you the worst persecution, slaying your sons and sparing your daughters. That was an exacting test from your Lord.

[14:6] Recall that Moses said to his people, "Remember GOD's blessings upon you. He saved you from Pharaoh's people who inflicted the worst persecution upon you, slaughtering your sons and sparing your daughters. That was an exacting trial from your Lord.”

Some people read this and think it is sexist, why is this the worst persecution? 

What kind of a society is that for the women who survive where their warriors and protectors have been killed?

Sexual assault against women higher in colleges where the women % is higher than the men

[3:195] Their Lord responded to them: "I never fail to reward any worker among you for any work you do, be you male or female—you are equal to one another…

[4:32] You shall not covet the qualities bestowed upon each other by GOD; the men enjoy certain qualities, and the women enjoy certain qualities. You may implore GOD to shower you with His grace. GOD is fully aware of all things.

With every privilege comes responsibility

[4:34] The men are made responsible for the women, and GOD has endowed them with certain qualities, and made them the bread earners.

[4:75] Why should you not fight in the cause of GOD when weak men, women, and children are imploring: "Our Lord, deliver us from this community whose people are oppressive, and be You our Lord and Master.”

[4:98] Exempted are the weak men, women, and children who do not possess the strength, nor the means to find a way out.

[2:246] Have you noted the leaders of Israel after Moses? They said to their prophet, "If you appoint a king to lead us, we will fight in the cause of GOD." He said, "Is it your intention that, if fighting is decreed for you, you will not fight?" They said, "Why should we not fight in the cause of GOD, when we have been deprived of our homes, and our children?" Yet, when fighting was decreed for them, they turned away, except a few. GOD is aware of the transgressors.

Rules of War*

[2:190] You may fight in the cause of GOD against those who attack you, but do not aggress. GOD does not love the aggressors. [2:191] You may kill those who wage war against you, and you may evict them whence they evicted you. Oppression is worse than murder. Do not fight them at the Sacred Mosque (Masjid), unless they attack you therein. If they attack you, you may kill them. This is the just retribution for those disbelievers. [2:192] If they refrain, then GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful. [2:193] You may also fight them to eliminate oppression, and to worship GOD freely. If they refrain, you shall not aggress; aggression is permitted only against the aggressors.

"The society that separates its scholars from its warriors will have its thinking done by cowards and its fighting by fools”

[43:16] Has He chosen from among His creations daughters for Himself, while blessing you with sons? [43:17] When one of them is given news (of a daughter) as they claimed for the Most Gracious, his face is darkened with misery and anger! [43:18] (They say,) "What is good about an offspring that is brought up to be beautiful, and cannot help in war?" [43:19] They claimed that the angels, who are servants of the Most Gracious, are females! Have they witnessed their creation? Their claims are recorded, and they will be asked.

[37:149] Ask them if your Lord has daughters, while they have sons! [37:150] Did we create the angels to be females? Did they witness that? [37:151] Indeed, they grossly blaspheme when they say— [37:152] "GOD has begotten a son." Indeed, they are liars. [37:153] Did He choose the girls over the boys? [37:154] What is wrong with your logic? [37:155] Why do you not take heed? [37:156] Do you have any proof? [37:157] Show us your book, if you are truthful.

[19:90] The heavens are about to shatter, the earth is about to tear asunder, and the mountains are about to crumble. [19:91] Because they claim that the Most Gracious has begotten a son. [19:92] It is not befitting the Most Gracious that He should beget a son. [19:93] Every single one in the heavens and the earth is a servant of the Most Gracious.

[19:35] It does not befit GOD that He begets a son, be He glorified. To have anything done, He simply says to it, "Be," and it is.

[112:0] In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful [112:1] Proclaim, "He is the One and only GOD. [112:2] "The Absolute GOD. [112:3] "Never did He beget. Nor was He begotten. [112:4] "None equals Him.”

[43:81] Proclaim: "If the Most Gracious did have a son, I would still be the foremost worshiper.”

Intellectual Dishonesty

One of the key tenants is not to lie or bear false witness

But there is a form of lying that most people overlook, don’t acknowledge or give a pass to and this is what makes it so dangerous

It is called intellectual dishonesty

We each have beliefs that we hold, either religious or non-religious, that we consider to be true. 

And it is scary to think that we have understandings and belief that may not be true.

So rather than try to understand these fallacies that we may believe we ignore them.

A description of a submitter should be truth-seeker, a person who loves the truth irrespective where it takes us.

[43:78] "We have given you the truth, but most of you hate the truth."

We all consider ourselves virtuous. We think that we would be on the side of righteousness.

We try to avoid the disconnect we would feel to think that some of our beliefs may not be true.

Don’t believe everything you think.

My favorite definition of Truth is that which does not change.

If we think we have the truth then that means there is no evidence that will change our belief

But as Submitters we are constantly learning and evolving our beliefs. Foundationally our belief in God, in the last Day and leading a righteous life should never change, but as we learn our understanding continues to evolve and progress.

But the only way that is going to happen is by being receptive to different points of views.

Most people, when presented with differing points of views, will become immediately defensive.

They see a different point of view as an attack on themselves

[8:8] For He has decreed that the truth shall prevail, and the falsehood shall vanish, in spite of the evildoers.

[17:81] Proclaim, "The truth has prevailed, and falsehood has vanished; falsehood will inevitably vanish.”

If our beliefs are true they will stand on their own

The truth doesn’t need us to exagerate, to fabricate or morph the other side argument to make it seem more appealing

It is tempting to demonize the other side before you assess the validity of their argument

Often times people believe that “My side is right the other side are terrible human beings”

Or they cannot perceive how a decent human being can have a different opinion than they do 

They think that anyone who disagrees with me is an idiot = they can’t be right and they must be stopped 

We need to separate the beliefs we hold from ourselves

This form of tribalism will not draw us any closer to God.

You Shall Not Bear False Witness

[4:135] O you who believe, you shall be absolutely equitable, and observe GOD, when you serve as witnesses, even against yourselves, or your parents, or your relatives. Whether the accused is rich or poor, GOD takes care of both. Therefore, do not be biased by your personal wishes. If you deviate or disregard (this commandment), then GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do.

In the Quran God tells us:

How to Spread God's Message

[16:125] You shall invite to the path of your Lord with wisdom and kind enlightenment, and debate with them in the best possible manner. Your Lord knows best who has strayed from His path, and He knows best who are the guided ones.

It is tempting when debating with others to frame their argument in the weakest form imaginable or even worse to twist the other sides viewpoints to make them seem ridiculous to believe

This is called a straw-man argument

When we do this we are being intellectually dishonest

We are framing the other side in a manner that they are not representing and when we do this we are bearing false witness:

[5:8] O you who believe, you shall be absolutely equitable, and observe GOD, when you serve as witnesses. Do not be provoked by your conflicts with some people into committing injustice. You shall be absolutely equitable, for it is more righteous. You shall observe GOD. GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do.

When we lie we are revealing our insecurity and trying to preserve our egos 

Create the strongest form of argument for the other side. One that they agree to and then begin to tear it down. At the same time you understand your position even better

If the end goal is to come to the truth and better understanding then we shouldn’t be insecure in our belief. 

Ad hominem attack

Example of Moses (fugitive, hardly speak, crazy) 

Example of Noah (worst among us first to follow you) 

[26:111] They said, "How can we believe with you, when the worst among us have followed you?"

Be Lenient  

[66:3] The prophet had trusted some of his wives with a certain statement, then one of them spread it, and GOD let him know about it. He then informed his wife of part of the issue, and disregarded part. She asked him, "Who informed you of this?" He said, "I was informed by the Omniscient, Most Cognizant.”

Just like God overlooks many of our sins, give people the benefit of the doubt. If they say they meant something else in their message or that they misspoke give them that courtesy. 

When we are being intellectually dishonest we are attempting to exalt ourselves to make our argument look stronger than it is 

[28:83] We reserve the abode of the Hereafter for those who do not seek exaltation on earth, nor corruption. The ultimate victory belongs to the righteous.

[53:32] They avoid gross sins and transgressions, except for minor offenses. Your Lord's forgiveness is immense. He has been fully aware of you since He initiated you from the earth, and while you were embryos in your mothers' bellies. Therefore, do not exalt yourselves; He is fully aware of the righteous.

Washing Hands

The year was 1846, and there was a Hungarian doctor named Ignaz Semmelweis.

Who was trying to figure out why so many women in maternity wards were dying from puerperal fever — commonly known as childbed fever.

He studied two maternity wards in the hospital. One was staffed by all male doctors and medical students, and the other was staffed by female midwives. And he counted the number of deaths on each ward.

When Semmelweis crunched the numbers, he discovered that women in the clinic staffed by doctors and medical students died at a rate nearly five times higher than women in the midwives' clinic.

But why?

Semmelweis went through the differences between the two wards and started ruling out ideas.

Right away he discovered a big difference between the two clinics.

In the midwives' clinic, women gave birth on their sides. In the doctors' clinic, women gave birth on their backs. So he had women in the doctors' clinic give birth on their sides. The result had "no effect.”

Then Semmelweis noticed that whenever someone on the ward died of childbed fever, a priest would walk slowly through the doctors' clinic, past the women's beds with an attendant ringing a bell. This time Semmelweis theorized that the priest and the bell ringing so terrified the women after birth that they developed a fever, got sick and died.

So Semmelweis had the priest change his route and ditch the bell. This too had no effect.

By now, Semmelweis was frustrated. He took a leave from his hospital duties and traveled to Venice. He hoped the break and a good dose of art would clear his head.

When Semmelweis got back to the hospital, some sad but important news was waiting for him. One of his colleagues, a pathologist, had fallen ill and died.

"This often happened to the pathologists," back then. "There was nothing new about the way he died. He pricked his finger while doing an autopsy on someone who had died from childbed fever." And then he got very sick himself and died.

Semmelweis studied the pathologist's symptoms and realized the pathologist died from the same thing as the women he had autopsied. This was a revelation: Childbed fever wasn't something only women in childbirth got sick from. It was something other people in the hospital could get sick from as well.

But it still didn't answer Semmelweis' original question: "Why were more women dying from childbed fever in the doctors' clinic than in the midwives' clinic?"

The death of the pathologist offered him a clue.

"The big difference between the doctors' ward and the midwives' ward is that the doctors were doing autopsies and the midwives weren’t.

Keep in mind that this was before the scientific understanding of germs

So Semmelweis hypothesized that there were cadaverous particles, little pieces of corpse, that students were getting on their hands from the cadavers they dissected. And when they delivered the babies, these particles would get inside the women who would develop the disease and die.

If Semmelweis' hypothesis was correct, getting rid of those cadaverous particles should cut down on the death rate from childbed fever.

So he ordered his medical staff to start cleaning their hands and instruments not just with soap but with a chlorine solution. Chlorine, as we know today, is about the best disinfectant there is. He chose the chlorine because he thought it would be the best way to get rid of any smell left behind by those little bits of corpse.

And when he imposed this, the rate of childbed fever fell dramatically.

You'd think everyone would be thrilled. Semmelweis had solved the problem! But they weren't thrilled.

For one thing, doctors were upset because Semmelweis' hypothesis made it look like they were the ones giving childbed fever to the women.

And Semmelweis was not very tactful. He publicly berated people who disagreed with him and made some influential enemies.

Eventually, the doctors gave up the chlorine hand-washing, and Semmelweis — he lost his job.

Semmelweis kept trying to convince doctors in other parts of Europe to wash with chlorine, but no one would listen to him.

And it wasn’t until decades later that germ theory was commonly accepted among doctors who accepted that they needed to wash their hands to reduce the spread of germs.

https://www.npr.org/sections/health-shots/2015/01/12/375663920/the-doctor-who-championed-hand-washing-and-saved-women-s-lives

If these were doctors then you could assume that for their generation they were the more educated, and this is one of the problems with increased knowledge is that we are more susceptible to fool ourselves.

I could imagine that the excuses the doctors came up with and the arguments they put forward to justify why they were not the problem for the deaths of so many mom’s and their childs.

One of the quotes from one of the doctors was something in the lines of

“Docotrs are gentlemen, and a gentleman’s hands are not dirty”

It is easy to think that the people of the past were stupid that if it was you - you would have saw the evidence and not hesitated to wash your hands

I heard that Jordan Peterson used to teach a class where he would go through the atrocities that took place in Nazi Germany in WWII and the few people in Germany who risked their lives trying to help the victims and to show the people in the class that if they lived in Germany during that time most likely they wouldn’t be one of the heroins but most likely a neutral party (Doing nothing) or one of the Nazis

It is a tough pill to swallow, but here is another more light-hearted example

Deflategate

Deflategate was a National Football League (NFL) controversy involving the allegation that the New England Patriots deliberately deflated footballs used in their victory against the Indianapolis Colts in the American Football Conference (AFC) Championship Game of the 2014–15 NFL playoffs. The controversy resulted in Patriots quarterback Tom Brady being suspended for four games and the team being fined $1 million and losing two draft picks.

Now I have no clue if this was done by malintent or not, but what was interesting was that in a nationwide poll

75% of all participants believed that Tom Brady and the Patriots were guilty and that they were intentionally deflating the ball for the advantage

But in only 4 states only ~23% of voters thought he was guilty.

Massachusetts, Rhode Island, New Hampshire, and Connecticut

New England is a geographical region comprising six states of the northeastern United States: Maine, Vermont, New Hampshire, Massachusetts, Rhode Island, and Connecticut.

The four states closest to where the New England Patriots play in Massachusetts overwhelmingly thought Tom Brady was innocent. 

Falsification

Corpse and Psychiatrist 

Hugh Ross vs. Athiest Debate - what would convince you that your viewpoint is wrong

How to tell if someone is receptive to swaying? Define what would it take to be proven wrong? 

The Torah and The Quran

[28:48] Now that the truth has come to them from us, they said, "If only we could be given what was given to Moses!" Did they not disbelieve in what was given to Moses in the past? They said, "Both (scriptures) are works of magic that copied one another." They also said, "We are disbelievers in both of them." [28:49] Say, "Then produce a scripture from GOD with better guidance than the two, so I can follow it, if you are truthful.”

Never wrestle with a pig you will get dirty and the pig will like it

[6:35] If their rejection gets to be too much for you, you should know that even if you dug a tunnel through the earth, or climbed a ladder into the sky, and produced a miracle for them (they still would not believe). Had GOD willed, He could have guided them, unanimously. Therefore, do not behave like the ignorant ones. [6:36] The only ones to respond are those who listen. GOD resurrects the dead; they ultimately return to Him.

Responsibility for the viewer

If we are going to make a judgment in some issue we should do our best to be equitable and just

[4:58] GOD commands you to give back anything the people have entrusted to you. If you judge among the people, you shall judge equitably. The best enlightenment indeed is what GOD recommends for you. GOD is Hearer, Seer.

[2:182] If one sees gross injustice or bias on the part of a testator, and takes corrective action to restore justice to the will, he commits no sin. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

Investigate Rumors Before Believing Them 

[49:6] O you who believe, if a wicked person brings any news to you, you shall first investigate, lest you commit injustice towards some people, out of ignorance, then become sorry and remorseful for what you have done.

[17:35] You shall give full measure when you trade, and weigh equitably. This is better and more righteous. [17:36] You shall not accept any information, unless you verify it for yourself. I have given you the hearing, the eyesight, and the brain, and you are responsible for using them. [17:37] You shall not walk proudly on earth —you cannot bore through the earth, nor can you be as tall as the mountains. [17:38] All bad behavior is condemned by your Lord.

Humility 

[25:63] The worshipers of the Most Gracious are those who tread the earth gently, and when the ignorant speak to them, they only utter peace.

[52:26] They will say, "We used to be kind and humble among our people.

Ends Do Not Justify The Means

Be Honest With All People 

[3:75] Some followers of the scripture can be trusted with a whole lot, and they will give it back to you. Others among them cannot be trusted with a single dinar; they will not repay you unless you keep after them. That is because they say, "We do not have to be honest when dealing with the gentiles!" Thus, they attribute lies to GOD, knowingly.

[24:33] Those who cannot afford to get married shall maintain morality until GOD provides for them from His grace. Those among your servants who wish to be freed in order to marry, you shall grant them their wish, once you realize that they are honest. And give them from GOD's money that He has bestowed upon you. You shall not force your girls to commit prostitution, seeking the materials of this world, if they wish to be chaste. If anyone forces them, then GOD, seeing that they are forced, is Forgiver, Merciful.

Trust in God and be truthful in all your affairs because ultimately it is God who determines the outcomes

Example of Joseph - if his garment is torn from the back or the front

[12:51] (The king) said (to the women), "What do you know about the incident when you tried to seduce Joseph?" They said, "GOD forbid; we did not know of anything evil committed by him." The wife of the governor said, "Now the truth has prevailed. I am the one who tried to seduce him, and he was the truthful one.

Intellectual honesty is an applied method of problem solving, characterized by an unbiased, honest attitude, which can be demonstrated in a number of different ways: 

• One's personal belief does not interfere with the pursuit of truth; 
  
• Relevant facts and information should not be purposefully omitted even when such things may contradict one's hypothesis; 
  
• Facts are presented in an unbiased manner, and not twisted to give misleading representations or to support one view over another;  

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Intellectual_honesty

Do what pleases God and trust in Him and He alone will support you

[3:161] If GOD supports you, none can defeat you. And if He abandons you, who else can support you? In GOD the believers shall trust.

[25:33] Whatever argument they come up with, we provide you with the truth, and a better understanding.

Quran: A Message To The Children of Israel and The World

So who is the Quran for? Is it for the Arabs? Yes, it is written in Arabic, but it surprisingly does not speak well of the Arabs. It is interesting that the group of people that is addressed the most is the Children of Israel

[68:52] It is in fact a message to the world.

[38:87] "This is a reminder for the world.

Arabs only mentioned ~9 times in the Quran and most the mentions do not speak highly of them

Moses is the most frequently cited prophet in the Quran

Muhammad mentioned 4 times

Jesus / Adam each mentioned 25 times

Abraham 69 times

Moses is mentioned 136

The Quran is a book meant for the Children of Israel (39 times)

Divine Commandments to All Jews: "You Shall Believe in This Quran."

[2:40] O Children of Israel, remember My favor, which I bestowed upon you, and fulfill your part of the covenant, that I fulfill My part of the covenant, and reverence Me. [2:41] You shall believe in what I have revealed herein, confirming what you have; do not be the first to reject it. Do not trade away My revelations for a cheap price, and observe Me. [2:42] Do not confound the truth with falsehood, nor shall you conceal the truth, knowingly.

[2:47] O Children of Israel, remember My favor which I bestowed upon you, and that I blessed you more than any other people. [2:48] Beware of the day when no soul can avail another soul, no intercession will be accepted, no ransom can be paid, nor can anyone be helped.

Interesting that God sent Moses to Pharaoh who had a speech impediment and similarly God sent the Quran in Arabic to the Children of Israel

[2:49] Recall that we saved you from Pharaoh's people who inflicted upon you the worst persecution, slaying your sons and sparing your daughters. That was an exacting test from your Lord. [2:50] Recall that we parted the sea for you; we saved you and drowned Pharaoh's people before your eyes. [2:51] Yet, when we summoned Moses for forty nights, you worshiped the calf in his absence, and turned wicked. [2:52] Still, we pardoned you thereafter that you may be appreciative. [2:53] Recall that we gave Moses scripture and the statute book, that you may be guided.

As expected from the Creator's final message, one of the prominent themes in the Quran is the call for unity among all believers, and the repeated prohibition of making any distinction among God's messengers. If the object of worship is one and the same, there will be absolute unity among all believers. It is the human factor, i.e., devotion and prejudice to such powerless humans as Jesus, Muhammad, and the saints that causes division, hatred, and bitter wars among the misguided believers. A guided believer is devoted to God ALONE, and rejoices in seeing any other believer who is devoted to God ALONE, regardless of the name such a believer calls his or her religion.

Unity of All Submitters

[2:62] Surely, those who believe, those who are Jewish, the Christians, and the converts; anyone who (1) believes in GOD, and (2) believes in the Last Day, and (3) leads a righteous life, will receive their recompense from their Lord. They have nothing to fear, nor will they grieve.

Honoring Previous Scripture

[5:44] We have sent down the Torah, containing guidance and light. Ruling in accordance with it were the Jewish prophets, as well as the rabbis and the priests, as dictated to them in GOD's scripture, and as witnessed by them. Therefore, do not reverence human beings; you shall reverence Me instead. And do not trade away My revelations for a cheap price. Those who do not rule in accordance with GOD's revelations, are the disbelievers.

The Gospel of Jesus: Guidance and Light

[5:46] Subsequent to them, we sent Jesus, the son of Mary, confirming the previous scripture, the Torah. We gave him the Gospel, containing guidance and light, and confirming the previous scriptures, the Torah, and augmenting its guidance and light, and to enlighten the righteous. [5:47] The people of the Gospel shall rule in accordance with GOD's revelations therein. Those who do not rule in accordance with GOD's revelations are the wicked.

Quran: The Ultimate Reference

[5:48] Then we revealed to you this scripture, truthfully, confirming previous scriptures, and superseding them. You shall rule among them in accordance with GOD's revelations, and do not follow their wishes if they differ from the truth that came to you. For each of you, we have decreed laws and different rites. Had GOD willed, He could have made you one congregation. But He thus puts you to the test through the revelations He has given each of you. You shall compete in righteousness. To GOD is your final destiny—all of you—then He will inform you of everything you had disputed.

A Witness From the Children of Israel

[46:10] Proclaim: “What if it is from God, and you disbelieved in it? A witness from the Children of Israel has borne witness to a similar phenomenon, and he has believed, while you have turned too arrogant to believe. God does not guide the wicked.”

The following quotation is taken from STUDIES IN JEWISH MYSTICISM , (Association for Jewish Studies, Cambridge, Mass., Joseph Dan & Frank Talmage, eds., Page 88, 1982).

The quotation refers to the work of Rabbi Judah the Pious (12th Century AD):

The people [Jews] in France made it a custom to add [in the morning prayer] the words: " 'Ashrei temimei derekh [blessed are those who walk the righteous way]," and our Rabbi, the Pious, of blessed memory, wrote that they were completely and utterly wrong. It is all gross falsehood, because there are only nineteen times that the Holy Name is mentioned [in that portion of the morning prayer]...

and similarly you find the word 'Elohim nineteen times in the pericope of Ve-'elleh shemot. . . .

Similarly, you find that Israel were called "sons" nineteen times, and there are many other examples. All these sets of nineteen are intricately intertwined, and they contain many secrets and esoteric meanings, which are contained in more than eight large volumes. . .

Furthermore, in this section there are 152 (19x8) words. ...

The Quran's Common Denominator

[74:30] Over it is nineteen.

[74:31] We appointed angels to be guardians of Hell, and we assigned their number (19)

(1) to disturb the disbelievers,

(2) to convince the Christians and Jews (that this is a divine scripture),

(3) to strengthen the faith of the faithful,

(4) to remove all traces of doubt from the hearts of Christians, Jews, as well as the believers, and

(5) to expose those who harbor doubt in their hearts,

and the disbelievers; they will say, "What did GOD mean by this allegory?" GOD thus sends astray whomever He wills, and guides whomever He wills. None knows the soldiers of your Lord except He. This is a reminder for the people. [74:32] Absolutely, (I swear) by the moon. [74:33] And the night as it passes. [74:34] And the morning as it shines.

One of the Great Miracles

[74:35] This is one of the great miracles. [74:36] A warning to the human race.

Common Link Between Jews, Christians and Muslims is Abraham

Submission (Islam): Abraham's Religion

[2:135] They said, "You have to be Jewish or Christian, to be guided." Say, "We follow the religion of Abraham—monotheism—he never was an idol worshiper."

No Distinction Among God's Messengers

[2:136] Say, "We believe in GOD, and in what was sent down to us, and in what was sent down to Abraham, Ismail, Isaac, Jacob, and the Patriarchs; and in what was given to Moses and Jesus, and all the prophets from their Lord. We make no distinction among any of them. To Him alone we are submitters.”

[22:78] You shall strive for the cause of GOD as you should strive for His cause. He has chosen you and has placed no hardship on you in practicing your religion—the religion of your father Abraham. He is the one who named you "Submitters" originally…

[16:123] Then we inspired you (Muhammad) to follow the religion of Abraham,* the monotheist; he never was an idol worshiper.

Abraham was the one who was given the Salat (Contact Prayer) 

[21:73] We made them imams who guided in accordance with our commandments, and we taught them how to work righteousness, and how to observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) and the obligatory charity (Zakat).* To us, they were devoted worshipers.

Children of Israel doing Salat 5:12

[5:12] GOD had taken a covenant from the Children of Israel, and we raised among them twelve patriarchs. And GOD said, "I am with you, so long as you observe the Contact Prayers (Salat), give the obligatory charity (Zakat), and believe in My messengers and respect them, and continue to lend GOD a loan of righteousness. I will then remit your sins, and admit you into gardens with flowing streams. Anyone who disbelieves after this, has indeed strayed off the right path.”

Moses doing Salat 10:87

[10:87] We inspired Moses and his brother. "Maintain your homes in Egypt for the time being, turn your homes into synagogues, and maintain the Contact Prayers (Salat). Give good news to the believers.”

Jesus doing Salat 19:31

[19:27] She came to her family, carrying him. They said, "O Mary, you have committed something that is totally unexpected. [19:28] "O descendant of Aaron, your father was not a bad man, nor was your mother unchaste." [19:29] She pointed to him. They said, "How can we talk with an infant in the crib?" [19:30] (The infant spoke and) said, "I am a servant of GOD. He has given me the scripture, and has appointed me a prophet. [19:31] "He made me blessed wherever I go, and enjoined me to observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) and the obligatory charity (Zakat) for as long as I live.

Losing the Contact Prayers (Salat)

[19:59] After them, He substituted generations who lost the Contact Prayers (Salat), and pursued their lusts. They will suffer the consequences.

Many Messengers / One Message

[2:253] These messengers; we blessed some of them more than others. For example, GOD spoke to one, and we raised some of them to higher ranks. And we gave Jesus, son of Mary, profound miracles and supported him with the Holy Spirit. Had GOD willed, their followers would not have fought with each other, after the clear proofs had come to them. Instead, they disputed among themselves; some of them believed, and some disbelieved. Had GOD willed, they would not have fought. Everything is in accordance with GOD's will.

Satan’s claim - “I am better than he”

To prove we worship God Alone we have to show that we are willing to kill our egos

One of the test at the time of Muhammad was that he changed their direction of prayer from Mecca (specifically towards the Kaaba) to Jerusalem

Abolition of Bigotry and Prejudice

[2:142] The fools among the people would say, "Why did they change the direction of their Qiblah?" Say, "To GOD belongs the east and the west; He guides whoever wills in a straight path." We thus made you an impartial community, that you may serve as witnesses among the people, and the messenger serves as a witness among you. We changed the direction of your original Qiblah only to distinguish those among you who readily follow the messenger from those who would turn back on their heels. It was a difficult test, but not for those who are guided by GOD. GOD never puts your worship to waste. GOD is Compassionate towards the people, Most Merciful.

Qiblah Restored to Mecca

[2:144] We have seen you turning your face about the sky (searching for the right direction). We now assign a Qiblah that is pleasing to you. Henceforth, you shall turn your face towards the Sacred Masjid. Wherever you may be, all of you shall turn your faces towards it. Those who received the previous scripture know that this is the truth from their Lord. GOD is never unaware of anything they do. [2:145] Even if you show the followers of the scripture every kind of miracle, they will not follow your Qiblah. Nor shall you follow their Qiblah. They do not even follow each others' Qiblah. If you acquiesce to their wishes, after the knowledge that has come to you, you will belong with the transgressors.

Abraham built Kaaba 2:127 and 22:26 -27

[22:26] We appointed Abraham to establish the Shrine: "You shall not idolize any other god beside Me, and purify My shrine for those who visit it, those who live near it, and those who bow and prostrate. [22:27] "And proclaim that the people shall observe Hajj pilgrimage. They will come to you walking or riding on various exhausted (means of transportation). They will come from the farthest locations."

[2:125] We have rendered the shrine (the Ka'aba) a focal point for the people, and a safe sanctuary. You may use Abraham's shrine as a prayer house. We commissioned Abraham and Ismail: "You shall purify My house for those who visit, those who live there, and those who bow and prostrate.”

Abraham Delivered All the Practices of Submission (Islam)

[2:127] As Abraham raised the foundations of the shrine, together with Ismail (they prayed): "Our Lord, accept this from us. You are the Hearer, the Omniscient. [2:128] "Our Lord, make us submitters to You, and from our descendants let there be a community of submitters to You. Teach us the rites of our religion, and redeem us. You are the Redeemer, Most Merciful. [2:129] "Our Lord, and raise among them a messenger to recite to them Your revelations, teach them the scripture and wisdom, and purify them. You are the Almighty, Most Wise.”

[2:130] Who would forsake the religion of Abraham, except one who fools his own soul? We have chosen him in this world, and in the Hereafter he will be with the righteous. [2:131] When his Lord said to him, "Submit," he said, "I submit to the Lord of the universe."

[2:132] Moreover, Abraham exhorted his children to do the same, and so did Jacob: "O my children, GOD has pointed out the religion for you; do not die except as submitters." [2:133] Had you witnessed Jacob on his death bed; he said to his children, "What will you worship after I die?" They said, "We will worship your god; the god of your fathers Abraham, Ismail, and Isaac; the one god. To Him we are submitters." [2:134] Such is a community from the past. They are responsible for what they earned, and you are responsible for what you earned. You are not answerable for anything they have done.

Becca/Baca/Mecca

Psalm 84:4 - 7

4 How blessed are those who dwell in Your house; they are ever praising You. Selah 5 Blessed are those whose strength is in You, whose hearts are set on pilgrimage. 6 As they pass through the Valley of Baca they make it a place of springs; even the autumn rain covers it with pools. 7 They go from strength to strength, until each appears before God in Zion.

[3:95] Say, "GOD has proclaimed the truth: You shall follow Abraham's religion—monotheism. He never was an idolator." [3:96] The most important shrine established for the people is the one in Becca; a blessed beacon for all the people. [3:97] In it are clear signs: the station of Abraham. Anyone who enters it shall be granted safe passage. The people owe it to GOD that they shall observe Hajj to this shrine, when they can afford it. As for those who disbelieve, GOD does not need anyone.

HaJJ

Exodus 5:1

Afterward Moses and Aaron went to Pharaoh and said, “This is what the Lord, the God of Israel, says: ‘Let my people go, so that they may hold a festival to me in the wilderness.’”

The Hebrew word in Exodus 5:1 for “festival” is “wə-yā-ḥōg-gū”

This word “Hag” means to make pilgrimage or to make pilgrim’s feast

It is linked to the Arabic word Hajj which means pilgrimage

One of the related words to Hag means “a festival sacrifice”

Exodus 5:2-3

2 Pharaoh said, “Who is the Lord, that I should obey him and let Israel go? I do not know the Lord and I will not let Israel go.” 3 Then they said, “The God of the Hebrews has met with us. Now let us take a three-day journey into the wilderness to offer sacrifices to the Lord our God, or he may strike us with plagues or with the sword.”

[22:36] The animal offerings are among the rites decreed by GOD for your own good. You shall mention GOD's name on them while they are standing in line. Once they are offered for sacrifice, you shall eat therefrom and feed the poor and the needy. This is why we subdued them for you, that you may show your appreciation.

Wilderness

The Hebrew word “mid-bawr” translated as wilderness in Exodus 5:1, is also used in Numbers 1:1 and 1:19.

Numbers 1:1

1 And the LORD spoke unto Moses in the wilderness of Sinai, in the tent of meeting, on the first day of the second month, in the second year after they were come out of the land of Egypt, saying:

19 As the LORD commanded Moses, so did he number them in the wilderness of Sinai.

If you look at the definition of this word it also means “desert”

Mount Sinai - no one knew for sure where it is located

Mountain of Fire - Documentary

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jabal_al-Lawz

Many believe that Mount Sinai was not in they Sinai Peninsula but in northwest Saudi Arabia  Hereb (Jebel Al-Lawz)  Also known as the Mountain of Moses

In Midyan ~420 miles from Cairo

~600 miles from Mecca

Moses went to Midyan (Arabian peninsula)  (Medina) Jethro / Shuaib

[20:40] "Your sister walked to them and said, 'I can tell you about a nursing mother who can take good care of him.' We thus returned you to your mother, that she may be happy and stop worrying. And when you killed a soul, we saved you from the grievous consequences; indeed we tested you thoroughly. You stayed years with the people of Midyan, and now you have come back in accordance with a precise plan.

[28:22] As he traveled towards Midyan, he said, "May my Lord guide me in the right path." [28:23] When he reached Midyan's water, he found a crowd of people watering, and noticed two women waiting on the side. He said, "What is it that you need?" They said, "We are not able to water, until the crowd disperses, and our father is an old man.”

http://biblehub.com/hebrew/4057.htm

http://biblehub.com/hebrew/2287.htm

Circle

The alternate form of the primitive root of Hag is Khug which means: to describe a circle or to draw a circle

Phylactery - a small leather box containing Hebrew text worn by Jewish men at morning prayer as a reminder to keep the law

The phylacteries contain 4 passages of scripture

1. Exodus 13:1-10
2. Exodus 13:11-16
3. Deuteronomy 6:4-9
4. Deuteronomy 11:13-2

Connected to a wrap that is wrapped 7 times around the left arm

Muslims also circle the Kaaba 7 times during Hajj

http://biblehub.com/bdb/2287.htm

[17:107] Proclaim, "Believe in it, or do not believe in it." Those who possess knowledge from the previous scriptures, when it is recited to them, they fall down to their chins, prostrating. [17:108] They say, "Glory be to our Lord. This fulfills our Lord's prophecy." [17:109] They fall down on their chins, prostrating and weeping. For it augments their reverence. [17:110] Say, "Call Him GOD, or call Him Most Gracious; whichever name you use, to Him belongs the best names."

[10:93] We have endowed the Children of Israel with a position of honor, and blessed them with good provisions. Yet, they disputed when this knowledge came to them. Your Lord will judge them on the Day of Resurrection regarding everything they disputed.

[2:120] Neither the Jews, nor the Christians, will accept you, unless you follow their religion. Say, "GOD's guidance is the true guidance." If you acquiesce to their wishes, despite the knowledge you have received, you will find no ally or supporter to help you against GOD. [2:121] Those who received the scripture, and know it as it should be known, will believe in this. As for those who disbelieve, they are the losers. [2:122] O Children of Israel, remember My favor which I bestowed upon you, and that I blessed you more than any other people. [2:123] Beware of the day when no soul will help another soul, no ransom will be accepted, no intercession will be useful, and no one will be helped.

[3:98] Say, "O followers of the scripture, why do you reject these revelations of GOD, when GOD is witnessing everything you do?" [3:99] Say, "O followers of the scripture, why do you repel from the path of GOD those who wish to believe, and seek to distort it, even though you are witnesses?" GOD is never unaware of anything you do. [3:100] O you who believe, if you obey some of those who received the scripture, they will revert you, after having believed, into disbelievers. [3:101] How can you disbelieve, when these revelations of GOD are being recited to you, and His messenger is in your midst? Whoever holds fast to GOD will be guided in the right path. [3:102] O you who believe, you shall observe GOD as He should be observed, and do not die except as Submitters.

Isaiah 42:6

6 “I, the Lord, have called you in righteousness; I will take hold of your hand. I will keep you and will make you to be a covenant for the people and a light for the Gentiles, 7 to open eyes that are blind, to free captives from prison and to release from the dungeon those who sit in darkness.

Isaiah 43:10-13

10 “You are my witnesses,” declares the Lord, “and my servant whom I have chosen, so that you may know and believe me and understand that I am He. Before Me no god was formed, nor will there be one after me. 11 I am the Lord, and apart from Me there is no savior. 12 I have revealed and saved and proclaimed— I, and not some foreign god among you. You are my witnesses,” declares the Lord, “that I am God. 13 Yes, and from ancient days I am He. No one can deliver out of My hand. When I act, who can reverse it?”

Requirements of the Test

[6:158] Are they waiting for the angels to come to them, or your Lord, or some physical manifestations of your Lord? The day this happens, no soul will benefit from believing if it did not believe before that, and did not reap the benefits of belief by leading a righteous life. Say, "Keep on waiting; we too are waiting."

Religious Sects Condemned

[6:159] Those who divide themselves into sects do not belong with you. Their judgment rests with GOD, then He will inform them of everything they had done. [6:160] Whoever does a righteous work receives the reward for ten, and the one who commits a sin is requited for only one. No one suffers the slightest injustice. [6:161] Say, "My Lord has guided me in a straight path—the perfect religion of Abraham, monotheism. He never was an idol worshiper." [6:162] Say, "My Contact Prayers (Salat), my worship practices, my life and my death, are all devoted absolutely to GOD alone, the Lord of the universe. [6:163] "He has no partner. This is what I am commanded to believe, and I am the first to submit." [6:164] Say, "Shall I seek other than GOD as a lord, when He is the Lord of all things? No soul benefits except from its own works, and none bears the burden of another. Ultimately, you return to your Lord, then He informs you regarding all your disputes." [6:165] He is the One who made you inheritors of the earth, and He raised some of you above others in rank, in order to test you in accordance with what He has given you. Surely, your Lord is efficient in enforcing retribution, and He is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

The Quran: God's Message to the Jews and Christians

[5:15] O people of the scripture, our messenger has come to you to proclaim for you many things you have concealed in the scripture, and to pardon many other transgressions you have committed. A beacon has come to you from GOD, and a profound scripture. [5:16] With it, GOD guides those who seek His approval. He guides them to the paths of peace, leads them out of darkness into the light by His leave, and guides them in a straight path.

Unity of All Submitters

[2:62] Surely, those who believe, those who are Jewish, the Christians, and the converts; anyone who (1) believes in GOD, and (2) believes in the Last Day, and (3) leads a righteous life, will receive their recompense from their Lord. They have nothing to fear, nor will they grieve.

The Fractal Design of Quran

[1:1] In the name of GOD, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

[1:2] Praise be to GOD, Lord of the universe.

[1:3] Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

 

[1:4] Master of the Day of Judgment.

 

[1:5] You alone we worship; You alone we ask for help.

[1:6] Guide us in the right path;

[1:7] the path of those whom You blessed; not of those who have deserved wrath, nor of the strayers.

• 2:62/5:69

Unity of All Submitters

[2:62] Surely, those who believe, those who are Jewish, the Christians, and the converts; anyone who

(1) believes in GOD, and

(2) believes in the Last Day, and

(3) leads a righteous life,

will receive their recompense from their Lord. They have nothing to fear, nor will they grieve.

Awesome aspect of a fractal it has infinite perimeter but a fixed volume

[31:27] If all the trees on earth were made into pens, and the ocean supplied the ink, augmented by seven more oceans, the words of GOD would not run out. GOD is Almighty, Most Wise.

[18:109] Say, "If the ocean were ink for the words of my Lord, the ocean would run out, before the words of my Lord run out, even if we double the ink supply."

Mathematical Structure of The Quran

Verses 6234 + 112 = 6346 = 19x334

Sura 114 = 19 x 6

This was discovered and published in 1974

Sura 74 is the only chapter that mentions the number 19

The Quran's Common Denominator

[74:30] Over it is nineteen.

[74:31] We appointed angels to be guardians of Hell, and we assigned their number (19)

(1) to disturb the disbelievers,

(2) to convince the Christians and Jews (that this is a divine scripture),

(3) to strengthen the faith of the faithful,

(4) to remove all traces of doubt from the hearts of Christians, Jews, as well as the believers, and

(5) to expose those who harbor doubt in their hearts, and the disbelievers; they will say, "What did GOD mean by this allegory?" GOD thus sends astray whomever He wills, and guides whomever He wills. None knows the soldiers of your Lord except He. This is a reminder for the people.

[74:32] Absolutely, (I swear) by the moon.

[74:33] And the night as it passes.

[74:34] And the morning as it shines.

One of the Great Miracles

[74:35] This is one of the great miracles.

[74:36] A warning to the human race.

74:31 has 57 words = 19 x 3

• First 19 verses of Sura 74 contains 57 words = 19x3 words
• The number of words from the beginning of sura 74 to 74:30 where it mentions “nineteen" = 19 x5 = 95 words
• The number of letters from the beginning of sura 74 to the word “nineteen” in 74:30 = 361 = 19 x 19 letters

Sura 42 and 50 both contain the letter Q

The occurrence of the letter Q in both chapters is 57 despite sura 42 being twice as long as sura 57

50:1 Q. And the glorious Quran

57 + 57 = 114 = 19 x 6 (number of suras in the Quran)

This Quran is mentioned in the Quran 57 times = 19 x 3

Majid = glorious = M(40) + J(3) +  I(10) + D(4) = 57 = 19 x 3

Sura 42 contains 53 verses = 42 + 53 = 95 = 19x5

Sura 50 contains 45 verses = 50 + 45 = 95 = 19 x5

If you count the letter Q in every 19th verses of the Quran you get 76 = 19 x 4

42 also contains the letters ASQ. HM

‘ASQ = 209 = 19 x 11 (Ayn Seen Qaf)

‘A = 98

Seen = 54

Q = 57

HM occurs in suras 40 - 46 for a total occurrence of 2147 = 19 x 113

Sura 96:1-5 is the first revelation of the Quran

[96:0] In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful

[96:1] Read, in the name of your Lord, who created.

[96:2] He created man from an embryo. [96:3] Read, and your Lord, Most Exalted.

[96:4] Teaches by means of the pen.

[96:5] He teaches man what he never knew.

19 words

Letters = 76 = 19 x4

Letters in entire chapter = 19 x 15 = 285

Verse in chapter = 19

Sura is 19 till the end of the Quran

Bismallah

= 19 letters

Ism = 19 times

Allah = 2698 = 19 x142

AlRahaman = 114 = 19 x 6

AlRaheem = 57 = 19 x3

This expression occurs 114 times despite the 9th Sura of the Quran not having it

But the 27th chapter of the Quran 27:30

27 + 30 = 57

Interesting to note that 30 is also 74:30 where it states the number 19

From sura 9 to sura 27 there are 19 suras (inclusive)

From missing Bismallh to 27:30  number of verses that state Allah = 513 = 19 x 27

The number of words from the first Basmalah of 27 to the second Basmalah in 27:30 is 342 = 19 x 18

The Quran has numbered and unnumbered verses

Sura 1:1 is the only numbered bismillah and gives 6234 numbered verses

There are 113 unnumbered verses

6234 + 112 = 6346 = 19x334

From the missing Basmalah to the extra Basmalah, the number of verses containing the word "Allah" is 513, 19x27. Note that 27 is the sura number where the extra Basmalah occurs. The data are in Table 1.

Jesus and Adam occur 25 times

The number of occurrences of certain words in the Quran has been known to carry significance 

• The ratio of the number of times sea and land are mentioned is 71%
• The number of times that the word “day” is mentioned is 365
• The number of times that Jesus and Adam are mentioned is 25

3:59 Jesus and Adam is similar in the site of God

[3:59] The example of Jesus, as far as GOD is concerned, is the same as that of Adam; He created him from dust, then said to him, "Be," and he was.

This is both the 7th mention of each Jesus and Adam

The 19th occurrence of the word Adam occurs in sura 19:58

The 19th occurrence of the word Jesus occurs in sura 19:34

There are 25 verses apart (inclusive)

[19:58] These are some of the prophets whom GOD blessed. They were chosen from among the descendants of Adam, and the descendants of those whom we carried with Noah, and the descendants of Abraham and Israel, and from among those whom we guided and selected. When the revelations of the Most Gracious are recited to them, they fall prostrate, weeping.

[19:34] That was Jesus, the son of Mary, and this is the truth of this matter, about which they continue to doubt.

Also, interesting that the 34th occurrence of Mary occurs in 19:34

If we count the number of verses from the 7th mention of Adam to the 19th mention of Adam 1957 verses = 19 x 103 (also 19 = 19x1 and 57 = 19x3)

If we add up the verses that Jesus is mentioned the first 19 occurrences you get the same number 1957

How Do We Know We Are Sincere?

In order to be able to understand the Quran there is one single requirement…Sincerity

Only the Sincere Can Understand the Quran

[56:75] I swear by the positions of the stars. [56:76] This is an oath, if you only knew, that is awesome. [56:77] This is an honorable Quran. [56:78] In a protected book. [56:79] None can grasp it except the sincere.

And this is true for all righteous endeavors. In order for people to be guided, they need to be sincere.

Moment of Truth

There was a game show called the Moment of Truth where contestants would be asked a series of questions after conducting a thorough lie-detector screening. If they truthfully answer all the questions they get $1M.

• Have you stole something from work
• Do you think your mom is unattractive
• Did you cheat on your husband
• Did you wish you married your ex-boyfriend
• Do you think you are a good person?

[41:19] The day will come when the enemies of GOD will be summoned to the hellfire, forcibly. [41:20] Once they get there, their own hearing, eyes, and skins will bear witness to everything they had done. [41:21] They will say to their skins, "Why did you bear witness against us?" They will reply, "GOD made us speak up; He is the One who causes everything to speak. He is the One who created you the first time, and now you have been returned to Him." [41:22] There is no way you can hide from your own hearing, your eyes, or your skins. In fact, you thought that GOD was unaware of much of what you do.

Self-deception is the blindfold we wear that hides the presence of the firing squad

Self-deception leads to self-destruction because if we do not know if we are being sincere then how would we know if we are guided?

As indicated at the beginning of Sura 2 there are three kinds of people:

1. The Righteous - who reads the Quran and understands it and applies it
2. The Disbeliever - who rejects the Quran
3. The Hypocrite - who reads the Quran, but is insincere and therefore doesn’t really understand the Quran

[2:8] Then there are those who say, "We believe in GOD and the Last Day," while they are not believers. [2:9] In trying to deceive GOD and those who believe, they only deceive themselves without perceiving.

So how do we know if we are being sincere?

Sincere: free from pretense or deceit; proceeding from genuine feelings.

[16:98] When you read the Quran, you shall seek refuge in GOD from Satan the rejected.

[23:97] Say, "My Lord, I seek refuge in You from the whispers of the devils. [23:98] "And I seek refuge in You, my Lord, lest they come near me."

When we read the Quran are we going there to try to find verses to justify what we already know? Or to genuinely search for what God is telling us?

When you read the Quran are you able to put all your preconceived notions aside and listen to what God is saying?

[28:50] If they fail to respond to you, then know that they follow only their own opinions. Who is farther astray than those who follow their own opinions, without guidance from GOD? GOD does not guide such wicked people.

“The greatest deception men suffer is from their own opinions.” - Leonardo Da Vinci

[5:101] O you who believe, do not ask about matters which, if revealed to you prematurely, would hurt you. If you ask about them in light of the Quran, they will become obvious to you. GOD has deliberately overlooked them. GOD is Forgiver, Clement.

There are going to be in the Quran it may not make sense when we first read it…

Why would God say this…

What does this mean…

[20:114] Most Exalted is GOD, the only true King. Do not rush into uttering the Quran before it is revealed to you, and say, "My Lord, increase my knowledge."

God's Revelation is Heavy

[11:12] You may wish to disregard some of that which is revealed to you, and you may be annoyed by it. Also, they may say, "How come no treasure comes down to him, or an angel?" You are only a warner; GOD controls all things.

No different than when you go to the doctor and the prescribe medication or a regiment it may not make sense, but you have to trust in God

Moses and the Teacher

[18:67] He said, "You cannot stand to be with me. [18:68] "How can you stand that which you do not comprehend?”

Like Mr. Miyagi from Karate Kid

You cannot wake a person who is pretending to be asleep

Don’t believe everything you think

[40:56] Surely, those who argue against GOD's revelations without proof are exposing the arrogance that is hidden inside their chests, and they are not even aware of it. Therefore, seek refuge in GOD; He is the Hearer, the Seer.

[3:7] He sent down to you this scripture, containing straightforward verses—which constitute the essence of the scripture—as well as multiple-meaning or allegorical verses. Those who harbor doubts in their hearts will pursue the multiple-meaning verses to create confusion, and to extricate a certain meaning. None knows the true meaning thereof except GOD and those well founded in knowledge. They say, "We believe in this—all of it comes from our Lord." Only those who possess intelligence will take heed.

when the student is ready the teacher appears

[18:17] You could see the sun when it rose coming from the right side of their cave, and when it set, it shone on them from the left, as they slept in the hollow thereof. This is one of GOD's portents. Whomever GOD guides is the truly guided one, and whomever He sends astray, you will not find for him a guiding teacher.

[55:0] In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful [55:1] The Most Gracious. [55:2] Teacher of the Quran. [55:3] Creator of the human beings. [55:4] He taught them how to distinguish.

God knows we are not perfect - that we will not come into the message without any fault

[65:10] …GOD has sent down to you a message—

[65:11] a messenger who recites to you GOD's revelations, clearly, to lead those who believe and work righteousness out of the darkness into the light. Anyone who believes in GOD and leads a righteous life, He will admit him into gardens with flowing streams; they abide therein forever. GOD will generously reward him.

There is no teaching only learning 

Diamonds

Diamond is made from carbon no different than a lump of coal - the only difference is that a diamond endured extreme pressure

One of the ways of being able to spot a fake diamond from a real one is that the real one has flaws minor imperfections, but the fake has the illusion of having no flaws except for one major one that it is not a real diamond

How can we tell that we are putting any bias or preconceived notions aside?

When we look in the Quran genuinely to hear God’s word

[10:22] He is the One who moves you across the land and sea. You get onto the ships, and they sail smoothly in nice breeze. Then, while rejoicing therein, violent wind blows, and the waves surround them from every side. This is when they implore GOD, sincerely devoting their prayers to Him alone: "If You only save us this time, we will be eternally appreciative.”

[17:67] If you are afflicted in the middle of the sea, you forget your idols and sincerely implore Him alone. But as soon as He saves you to the shore, you revert. Indeed, the human being is unappreciative.

[31:32] When violent waves surround them, they implore GOD, sincerely devoting their prayers to Him alone. But as soon as He saves them to the shore, some of them revert. None discards our revelations except those who are betrayers, unappreciative. [31:33] O people, you shall reverence your Lord, and fear a day when a father cannot help his own child, nor a child can help his father. Certainly, GOD's promise is truth. Therefore, do not be distracted by this life; do not be distracted from GOD by mere illusions

[39:7] If you disbelieve, GOD does not need anyone. But He dislikes to see His servants make the wrong decision. If you decide to be appreciative, He is pleased for you. No soul bears the sins of any other soul. Ultimately, to your Lord is your return, then He will inform you of everything you had done. He is fully aware of the innermost thoughts. [39:8] When the human being is afflicted, he implores his Lord, sincerely devoted to Him. But as soon as He blesses him, he forgets his previous imploring, sets up idols to rank with GOD and to divert others from His path. Say, "Enjoy your disbelief temporarily; you have incurred the hellfire.”

Who Is Doing Whom A Favor?

[49:17] They act as if they are doing you a favor by embracing Submission! Say, "You are not doing me any favors by embracing Submission. GOD is the One who is doing you a great favor by guiding you to the faith, if you are sincere."

So what do you see when you read the Quran?

[1:1] In the name of GOD, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

Know that the God who created you, the God who put this all into existence has sent down to you this book to guide you. And if we are sincere we can unlock this message and purify our Submission and draw closer to the source of everything that is good and righteous both in this world and in the Hereafter.

[17:82] We send down in the Quran healing and mercy for the believers. At the same time, it only increases the wickedness of the transgressors. [17:83] When we bless the human being, he becomes preoccupied and heedless. But when adversity strikes him, he turns despondent. [17:84] Say, "Everyone works in accordance with his belief, and your Lord knows best which ones are guided in the right path.”

[10:57] O people, enlightenment has come to you herein from your Lord, and healing for anything that troubles your hearts, and guidance, and mercy for the believers.

[10:58] Say, "With GOD's grace and with His mercy they shall rejoice." This is far better than any wealth they can accumulate.

12 Habits of Self Righteous People

1. It’s normal for you to think you have “special knowledge” no one else around you has access to, and this makes you feel like you have an “up” on others.

[56:77] This is an honorable Quran. [56:78] In a protected book. [56:79] None can grasp it except the sincere.

[2:171] The example of such disbelievers is that of parrots who repeat what they hear of sounds and calls, without understanding. Deaf, dumb, and blind; they cannot understand.

2. Is it common for you to walk into a room full of submitters and think “they don’t get it”?

[2:13] When they are told, "Believe like the people who believed," they say, "Shall we believe like the fools who believed?" In fact, it is they who are fools, but they do not know.

[83:29] The wicked used to laugh at those who believed. [83:30] When they passed by them, they used to poke fun. [83:31] When they got together with their people, they used to joke. [83:32] Whenever they saw them, they said, "These people are far astray!

3. Are you quick to label fellow submitters as hypocrites, idol worshipers or disbelievers?

[6:52] And do not dismiss those who implore their Lord day and night, devoting themselves to Him alone. You are not responsible for their reckoning, nor are they responsible for your reckoning. If you dismiss them, you will be a transgressor.

[7:198] When you invite them to the guidance, they do not hear. And you see them looking at you, but they do not see. [7:199] You shall resort to pardon, advocate tolerance, and disregard the ignorant. [7:200] When the devil whispers to you any whisper, seek refuge in GOD; He is Hearer, Omniscient. [7:201] Those who are righteous, whenever the devil approaches them with an idea, they remember, whereupon they become seers.

4. When you give the message are people more offended by you and your delivery than the actual message?

[2:44] Do you exhort the people to be righteous, while forgetting yourselves, though you read the scripture? Do you not understand?

Treat Each Other Amicably

[17:53] Tell My servants to treat each other in the best possible manner, for the devil will always try to drive a wedge among them. Surely, the devil is man's most ardent enemy.

How to Spread God's Message

[16:125] You shall invite to the path of your Lord with wisdom and kind enlightenment, and debate with them in the best possible manner. Your Lord knows best who has strayed from His path, and He knows best who are the guided ones.

Submitters

[41:33] Who can utter better words than one who invites to GOD, works righteousness, and says, "I am one of the submitters"? [41:34] Not equal is the good response and the bad response. You shall resort to the nicest possible response. Thus, the one who used to be your enemy, may become your best friend. [41:35] None can attain this except those who steadfastly persevere. None can attain this except those who are extremely fortunate.  

When the Devil Entices You

[41:36] When the devil whispers an idea to you, you shall seek refuge in GOD. He is the Hearer, the Omniscient.

5. Do you guilt far more people to action than you inspire?

The Messenger's Kindness

[3:159] It was mercy from GOD that you became compassionate towards them. Had you been harsh and mean-hearted, they would have abandoned you. Therefore, you shall pardon them and ask forgiveness for them, and consult them. …

[9:103] Take from their money a charity to purify them and sanctify them. And encourage them, for your encouragement reassures them. GOD is Hearer, Omniscient.

6. Do you judge/correct/remind out of love or out of moral superiority?

Basic Law Regulating Relations With Unbelievers

[60:8] GOD does not enjoin you from befriending those who do not fight you because of religion, and do not evict you from your homes. You may befriend them and be equitable towards them. GOD loves the equitable. [60:9] GOD enjoins you only from befriending those who fight you because of religion, evict you from your homes, and band together with others to banish you. You shall not befriend them. Those who befriend them are the transgressors.

[3:104] Let there be a community of you who invite to what is good, advocate righteousness, and forbid evil. These are the winners.

[36:47] When they are told, "Give from GOD's provisions to you," those who disbelieve say to those who believe, "Why should we give to those whom GOD could feed, if He so willed? You are really far astray."

7. Do you say things on Facebook that you would never say in person?

[3:77] As for those who trade away GOD's covenant, and their obligations, for a cheap price, they receive no share in the Hereafter. GOD will not speak to them, nor look at them, on the Day of Resurrection, nor will He purify them. They have incurred a painful retribution.  

[9:9] They traded away GOD's revelations for a cheap price. Consequently, they repulsed the people from His path. Miserable indeed is what they did!

Responsibility

[4:85] Whoever mediates a good deed receives a share of the credit thereof, and whoever mediates an evil work, incurs a share thereof. GOD controls all things. 

[4:94] O you who believe, if you strike in the cause of GOD, you shall be absolutely sure. Do not say to one who offers you peace, "You are not a believer," seeking the spoils of this world. For GOD possesses infinite spoils. Remember that you used to be like them, and GOD blessed you. Therefore, you shall be absolutely sure (before you strike). GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do.

[16:126] And if you punish, you shall inflict an equivalent punishment. But if you resort to patience (instead of revenge), it would be better for the patient ones. [16:127] You shall resort to patience—and your patience is attainable only with GOD's help. Do not grieve over them, and do not be annoyed by their schemes.

[59:10] Those who became believers after them say, "Our Lord, forgive us and our brethren who preceded us to the faith, and keep our hearts from harboring any hatred towards those who believed. Our Lord, You are Compassionate, Most Merciful."

8. Do you think the world would be a better place if everyone was like you?

Quran: The Ultimate Reference

[5:48] Then we revealed to you this scripture, truthfully, confirming previous scriptures, and superseding them. You shall rule among them in accordance with GOD's revelations, and do not follow their wishes if they differ from the truth that came to you. For each of you, we have decreed laws and different rites. Had GOD willed, He could have made you one congregation. But He thus puts you to the test through the revelations He has given each of you. You shall compete in righteousness. To GOD is your final destiny - all of you - then He will inform you of everything you had disputed.

9. Do you think your understanding is the ultimate truth for all Submitters, and deep down do you believe it is a litmus test for true Submission?

All Believers Constitute the One Acceptable Religion

As expected from the Creator's final message, one of the prominent themes in the Quran is the call for unity among all believers, and the repeated prohibition of making any distinction among God's messengers. If the object of worship is one and the same, there will be absolute unity among all believers. It is the human factor, i.e., devotion and prejudice to such powerless humans as Jesus, Muhammad, and the saints that causes division, hatred, and bitter wars among the misguided believers. A guided believer is devoted to God ALONE, and rejoices in seeing any other believer who is devoted to God ALONE, regardless of the name such a believer calls his or her religion.

Unity of All Submitters

[2:62] Surely, those who believe, those who are Jewish, the Christians, and the converts; anyone who (1) believes in GOD, and (2) believes in the Last Day, and (3) leads a righteous life, will receive their recompense from their Lord. They have nothing to fear, nor will they grieve.

10. Do you have a problem saying “I don’t know”?

Divine Revelation: The Source of All Knowledge

[17:85] They ask you about the revelation. Say, "The revelation comes from my Lord. The knowledge given to you is minute." [17:86] If we will, we can take back what we revealed to you, then you will find no protector against us. 

The Test Begins

[2:31] He taught Adam all the names* then presented them to the angels, saying, "Give Me the names of these, if you are right." [2:32] They said, "Be You glorified, we have no knowledge, except that which You have taught us. You are the Omniscient, Most Wise." 

On The Day Of Resurrection

[5:116] GOD will say, “O Jesus, son of Mary,* did you say to the people, ‘Make me and my mother idols beside GOD’?” He will say, “Be You glorified. I could not utter what was not right. Had I said it, You already would have known it. You know my thoughts, and I do not know Your thoughts. You know all the secrets.

[3:66] You have argued about things you knew; why do you argue about things you do not know? GOD knows, while you do not know.

Tragic Statement: "My mind is made up!"

[2:88] Some would say, "Our minds are made up!" Instead, it is a curse from GOD, as a consequence of their disbelief, that keeps them from believing, except for a few of them. 

[7:33] Say, "My Lord prohibits only evil deeds, be they obvious or hidden, and sins, and unjustifiable aggression, and to set up beside GOD powerless idols, and to say about GOD what you do not know."

[38:21] Have you received news of the feuding men who sneaked into his sanctuary? [38:22] When they entered his room, he was startled. They said, "Have no fear. We are feuding with one another, and we are seeking your fair judgment. Do not wrong us, and guide us in the right path. [38:23] "This brother of mine owns ninety-nine sheep, while I own one sheep. He wants to mix my sheep with his, and continues to pressure me."

David's Exemplary Piety

[38:24] He said, "He is being unfair to you by asking to combine your sheep with his. Most people who combine their properties treat each other unfairly, except those who believe and work righteousness, and these are so few." Afterwards, David wondered if he made the right judgment. He thought that we were testing him. He then implored his Lord for forgiveness, bowed down, and repented. [38:25] We forgave him in this matter. We have granted him a position of honor with us, and a beautiful abode. [38:26] O David, we have made you a ruler on earth. Therefore, you shall judge among the people equitably, and do not follow your personal opinion, lest it diverts you from the way of GOD. Surely, those who stray off the way of GOD incur severe retribution for forgetting the Day of Reckoning.

[24:51] The only utterance of the believers, whenever invited to GOD and His messenger to judge in their affairs, is to say, "We hear and we obey." These are the winners.

[4:29] O you who believe, do not consume each others' properties illicitly— only mutually acceptable transactions are permitted.

Footnote 38:24 In this clear example, 99 on one side vs 1 on the other side, David's extreme care to render the correct judgment caused him to ask forgiveness. Are we this careful?   

11. Do you forget that the fact that since we are here on Earth means that we are all guilty of the original sin and if it wasn’t for God’s mercy we would all be in Hell right now?

Muslim vs Mu'men

[49:14] The Arabs said, "We are Mu'mens (believers)." Say, "You have not believed; what you should say is, 'We are Muslims (submitters),' until belief is established in your hearts." If you obey GOD and His messenger, He will not put any of your works to waste. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

 

[4:125] Who is better guided in his religion than one who submits totally to GOD, leads a righteous life, according to the creed of Abraham: monotheism? GOD has chosen Abraham as a beloved friend.

[26:82] "The One who hopefully will forgive my sins on the Day of Judgment.

Mark 10:18 – The Rich Young Man

17As Jesus started on His way, a man ran up and knelt before Him. “Good Teacher,” he asked, “what must I do to inherit eternal life?” 18“Why do you call Me good? Jesus replied, “No one is good except God alone.” 

Luke 18:9-14 – The Parable of the Pharisee and the Tax Collector

To some who were confident of their own righteousness and looked down on everyone else, Jesus told this parable: “Two men went up to the temple to pray, one a Pharisee and the other a tax collector. The Pharisee stood by himself and prayed: ‘God, I thank you that I am not like other people—robbers, evildoers, adulterers—or even like this tax collector. I fast twice a week and give a tenth of all I get.’  “But the tax collector stood at a distance. He would not even look up to heaven, but beat his chest and said, ‘God, have mercy on me, a sinner.’ “I tell you that this man, rather than the other, went home justified before God. For all those who exalt themselves will be humbled, and those who humble themselves will be exalted.”

[4:49] Have you noted those who exalt themselves? Instead, GOD is the One who exalts whomever He wills, without the least injustice.

Matthew 7:4 - 5

“How can you say to your brother, ‘Let me take the speck out of your eye,’ while there is still a beam in your own eye? You hypocrite! First take the beam out of your own eye, and then you will see clearly to remove the speck from your brother’s eye.” – 

Stoning In The Quran

The Qur'an does not mention the act of stoning (Rajm) for any crime.

Stoning is called rajm (Arabic: رجم) in Islamic literature, and is a practice found in:

• Saudi Arabia
• Iraq
• Afghanistan
• Yemen
• Somalia
• Sudan
• Northern Nigeria
• Qatar
• Iran (Islamic Republic)

Stoning is in the Quran,

but it is only done by the disbelievers

Sleepers of Ephesus

[18:20] "If they discover you, they will stone you, or force you to revert to their religion, then you can never succeed.”  

Messengers

[36:18] They said, "We consider you bad omens. Unless you refrain, we will surely stone you, or afflict you with painful retribution.” 

Shu’aib

[11:91] They said, "O Shu`aib, we do not comprehend many of the things you are telling us, and we see that you are powerless among us. If it were not for your tribe, we would have stoned you. You have no value for us.”  

Noah

[26:116] They said, "Unless you refrain, O Noah, you will be stoned.”

Abraham

[19:46] He said, "Have you forsaken my gods, O Abraham? Unless you stop, I will stone you. Leave me alone.” 

[6:74] Recall that Abraham said to his father Ãzer, "How could you worship statues as gods? I see that you and your people have gone far astray.”

There is a Hadith that while the people were preparing the funeral for the prophet a goat came and ate the verses of the Quran having to do with stoning

[7:185] Have they not looked at the dominion of the heavens and the earth, and all the things GOD has created? Does it ever occur to them that the end of their life may be near? Which Hadith, beside this, do they believe in?

[6:19] Say, "Whose testimony is the greatest?" Say, "GOD's. He is the witness between me and you that this Quran has been inspired to me, to preach it to you and whomever it reaches. Indeed, you bear witness that there are other gods beside GOD." Say, "I do not testify as you do; there is only one god, and I disown your idolatry.”

[6:38] All the creatures on earth, and all the birds that fly with wings, are communities like you. We did not leave anything out of this book. To their Lord, all these creatures will be summoned.

Abrogation

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=x41Oz3PpeRs

Q&A: Is Stoning Part of Islamic Sharia? | Dr. Shabir Ally

Abrogate = to abolish to indicate that certain verses no longer apply that they have been voided and replaced with something new

[2:106] When we abrogate any miracle, or cause it to be forgotten, we produce a better miracle, or at least an equal one. Do you not recognize the fact that GOD is Omnipotent?

2:106 word = ayat = miracle, sign and verse 

[17:101] We supported Moses with nine profound miracles—ask the Children of Israel. When he went to them, Pharaoh said to him, "I think that you, Moses, are bewitched."

[18:27] You shall recite what is revealed to you of your Lord's scripture. Nothing shall abrogate His words, and you shall not find any other source beside it.

Hadith & Sunna: Fabrications by the Prophet's Enemies

[6:112] We have permitted the enemies of every prophet—human and jinn devils—to inspire in each other fancy words, in order to deceive. Had your Lord willed, they would not have done it. You shall disregard them and their fabrications.

Important Criterion

[6:113] This is to let the minds of those who do not believe in the Hereafter listen to such fabrications, and accept them, and thus expose their real convictions.*

[6:114] Shall I seek other than GOD as a source of law, when He has revealed to you this book fully detailed?* Those who received the scripture recognize that it has been revealed from your Lord, truthfully. You shall not harbor any doubt. [6:115] The word of your Lord is complete,* in truth and justice. Nothing shall abrogate His words. He is the Hearer, the Omniscient. [6:116] If you obey the majority of people on earth, they will divert you from the path of GOD. They follow only conjecture; they only guess.

Abraham

[21:51] Before that, we granted Abraham his guidance and understanding, for we were fully aware of him. [21:52] He said to his father and his people, "What are these statues to which you are devoting yourselves?" [21:53] They said, "We found our parents worshiping them." [21:54] He said, "Indeed, you and your parents have gone totally astray." [21:55] They said, "Are you telling us the truth, or are you playing?" [21:56] He said, "Your only Lord is the Lord of the heavens and the earth, who created them. This is the testimony to which I bear witness. [21:57] "I swear by GOD, I have a plan to deal with your statues, as soon as you leave."

 

[21:58] He broke them into pieces, except for a big one, that they may refer to it. [21:59] They said, "Whoever did this to our gods is really a transgressor." [21:60] They said, "We heard a youth threaten them; he is called Abraham." [21:61] They said, "Bring him before the eyes of all the people, that they may bear witness." [21:62] They said, "Did you do this to our gods, O Abraham?"

Abraham Proves His Point

[21:63] He said, "It is that big one who did it. Go ask them, if they can speak." [21:64] They were taken aback, and said to themselves, "Indeed, you are the ones who have been transgressing." [21:65] Yet, they reverted to their old ideas: "You know full well that these cannot speak." [21:66] He said, "Do you then worship besides GOD what possesses no power to benefit you or harm you? [21:67] "You have incurred shame by worshiping idols beside GOD. Do you not understand?"

Profound Miracle

[21:68] They said, "Burn him and support your gods, if this is what you decide to do." [21:69] We said, "O fire, be cool and safe for Abraham.” [21:70] Thus, they schemed against him, but we made them the losers. [21:71] We saved him, and we saved Lot, to the land that we blessed for all the people. [21:72] And we granted him Isaac and Jacob as a gift, and we made them both righteous.

Spiritual Benefits of Fasting (Ramadan Rebroadcast)

[2:183] O you who believe, fasting is decreed for you, as it was decreed for those before you, that you may attain salvation. 

[16:18] If you count GOD's blessings, you cannot possibly encompass them. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

[13:28] They are the ones whose hearts rejoice in remembering GOD. Absolutely, by remembering GOD, the hearts rejoice.

[5:7] Remember GOD's blessing upon you, and His covenant that He covenanted with you: you said, "We hear and we obey." You shall observe GOD; GOD is fully aware of the innermost thoughts.

[2:152] You shall remember Me, that I may remember you, and be thankful to Me; do not be unappreciative.

[14:7] Your Lord has decreed: "The more you thank Me, the more I give you." But if you turn unappreciative, then My retribution is severe.

[6:141] He is the One who established gardens, trellised and untrellised, and palm trees, and crops with different tastes, and olives, and pomegranate - fruits that are similar, yet dissimilar. Eat from their fruits, and give the due alms on the day of harvest, and do not waste anything. He does not love the wasters.

[7:69]  … Remember GOD's blessings, that you may succeed.

Parable of The Farmer and The Trees

[7:58] The good land readily produces its plants by the leave of its Lord, while the bad land barely produces anything useful. We thus explain the revelations for people who are appreciative.

Matthew 13 - The Parable of the Sower

3 Then he told them many things in parables, saying: 

“A farmer went out to sow his seed. 

4 As he was scattering the seed, some fell along the path, and the birds came and ate it up. 

5 Some fell on rocky places, where it did not have much soil. It sprang up quickly, because the soil was shallow. 

6 But when the sun came up, the plants were scorched, and they withered because they had no root. 

7 Other seed fell among thorns, which grew up and choked the plants. 

8 Still other seed fell on good soil, where it produced a crop—a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown. 9 Whoever has ears, let them hear.”

 

18 “Listen then to what the parable of the sower means: 

19 When anyone hears the message about the kingdom and does not understand it, the evil one comes and snatches away what was sown in their heart. This is the seed sown along the path.

20 The seed falling on rocky ground refers to someone who hears the word and at once receives it with joy. 21 But since they have no root, they last only a short time. When trouble or persecution comes because of the word, they quickly fall away.

22 The seed falling among the thorns refers to someone who hears the word, but the worries of this life and the deceitfulness of wealth choke the word, making it unfruitful. 

23 But the seed falling on good soil refers to someone who hears the word and understands it. This is the one who produces a crop, yielding a hundred, sixty or thirty times what was sown.”

 

The seed sown along the path

[47:16] Some of them listen to you, then as soon as they leave they ask those who were enlightened, "What did he just say?" GOD thus seals their hearts and, consequently, they follow only their opinions.

 

The seed falling on rocky ground

[29:10] Among the people there are those who say, "We believe in GOD," but as soon as they suffer any hardship because of GOD, they equate the people's persecution with GOD's retribution. But if blessings from your Lord come your way, they say, "We were with you." Is GOD not fully aware of the people's innermost thoughts?

 

The seed falling among the thorns

[7:169] Subsequent to them, He substituted new generations who inherited the scripture. But they opted for the worldly life instead, saying, "We will be forgiven." But then they continued to opt for the materials of this world. Did they not make a covenant to uphold the scripture, and not to say about GOD except the truth? Did they not study the scripture? Certainly, the abode of the Hereafter is far better for those who maintain righteousness. Do you not understand?

 

The seed falling on good soil

[2:261] The example of those who spend their monies in the cause of GOD is that of a grain that produces seven spikes, with a hundred grains in each spike. GOD multiplies this manifold for whomever He wills. GOD is Bounteous, Knower.

[2:265] The example of those who give their money seeking GOD's pleasure, out of sincere conviction, is that of a garden on high fertile soil; when heavy rain falls, it gives twice as much crop. If heavy rain is not available, a drizzle will suffice. GOD is Seer of everything you do.

[14:24] Do you not see that GOD has cited the example of the good word as a good tree whose root is firmly fixed, and its branches are high in the sky? [14:25] It produces its crop every season, as designed by its Lord. GOD thus cites the examples for the people, that they may take heed. [14:26] And the example of the bad word is that of a bad tree chopped at the soil level; it has no roots to keep it standing.

 

[79:1] The (angels who) snatch (the souls of the disbelievers) forcibly.

[79:2] And those who gently take (the souls of the believers) joyfully.

 

[71:17] And GOD germinated you from the earth like plants.

 

[22:18] Do you not realize that to GOD prostrates everyone in the heavens and the earth, and the sun, and the moon, and the stars, and the mountains, and the trees, and the animals, and many people?

 

Everything Glorifies God

[17:44] Glorifying Him are the seven universes, the earth, and everyone in them. There is nothing that does not glorify Him, but you do not understand their glorification. He is Clement, Forgiver.

 

You are a tree in a farm

There are many workers who work for the owner at the farm who tend to all your needs and the needs of the farm.

All your needs are being met and because of this you produce delicious fruit generously

One day it dawns on you, how do you know that the farm you reside at is the best one for you? Perhaps there is another farmer who can tend better or just as well to you somewhere else.

The farmer who owned the farm who heard your question gave you an opportunity

He said that he will let you decide for yourself if there can be a farm better for you than the one He provided, but he will do you one better if you want

You can go to that new farm not only as a tree, but as a worker as in that farm tending to yourself.

You will no longer be limited to being fed and watered by the farmer and His workers you can decide for yourself all your choices without the farmer dictating to you

Imagine you gave a plant freedom of choice, a body the ability to mobility, the ability to choose its spouse and choose to produce fruit or not 

You will have complete mobility and complete freedom of choice in how you behave as a worker

But there is one contingency if you go to another farm and you are not able to meet the requirements of being a good worker then when you come back to being a tree in my farm you will continue being a tree but you will no longer be able to produce delicious plentiful fruit and instead all you will be good for is firewood for all of eternity.

While most of the trees refused such responsibility a group were confident in their abilities and said yes they want to see a new farm and decide for themselves if they want to come back to their original farm as a worker (a promotion) but if they fail to maintain the requirements of being a worker then they will come back as a tree that is only good for firewood.

The rest of the trees who did not want to bear the responsibility were given the opportunity to come as trees to the new farm and see for themselves how these workers care for them. After their time at the farm they are welcomed to come back to their original farm as a tree in their usual role.

The farmers land was endless so he designated a small plot of land for these trees who have now been turned into workers He asked some of his workers to go help the new farmers with the land

At this point one of the workers refused. He thought that his was beneath him. He thought that he was better than these new workers and felt insulted that he was given such a task.

So in return, the farmer did him a solid and offered this disgruntled worker to be the manager of this new farm. If he could make the workers and farm as happy as the workers and farm in his kingdom then he would prove his point. But if he can’t he too will be demoted to a tree and spend all of eternity as firewood.

 

When the entities were presented to their new farm in their new roles things did not go as planned

• Many of the new farmers once experiencing the freedom they had did not want anything to do with their responsibilities
• They realized that being a worker required a lot of work and discipline and they did not want to provide
• They preferred to pursue other interests
• Because of this the trees that these farmers were responsible for withered and died and the farmers wasted their life

• Other workers did take on the responsibility of maintaining their farm
• They got up every morning at dawn to tend to the farm
• They followed the regiment of the workers and grew strong
• They were happy with what was given to them and never complained
• And in return, their yield was immensely productive and kept the farm alive

• The manager thought how hard could it be to maintain a farm. What he didn’t realize was all the work of keeping order and keeping everyone productive
  • Fights broke out among workers
  • Workers bad life choices led to health problems
  • Workers demanded more pay and benefits. They were unhappy with their accommodations, their pay, their amenities
  • The trees were dying, the yield was declining and there seemed to be no hope in sight for the manager
  • So he decided to sabotage the efforts for one last effort. He figured that if everyone turned away from the farmer that perhaps the farmer would have mercy on him when they return after the experiment utterly failed

When the experiment was all over…

• The trees who never accepted being workers were admitted back into the farm now with a new sense of appreciation and for this they continued being taken care of and produced even more fruit
• The trees who failed as farmers were turned back into trees, but because of the neglect they faced during their time as workers they have lost their ability to produce sweet fruit (just bitter) let alone anything good for the farm and thus spent the rest of eternity supplying firewood because that was all they were good for.
• And for the worker who thought he could be a farmer he too was turned into a tree, but suffered more than anyone else because his demotion was the greatest.

For the trees who became farmers and failed:

• What would happen if you had all this then went back to living life as a tree
• Imagine you were offered a food so delicious that once you eat it you will never want to eat anything else in your whole life, but the contingency was that once you eat it you will never be able to eat it again. Would you eat that fruit?
• When someone is rich and lose their wealth they commit suicide 
• Don’t know what you are missing then there is no remorse 

Freedom of Choice

[33:72] We have offered the responsibility (freedom of choice) to the heavens and the earth, and the mountains, but they refused to bear it, and were afraid of it. But the human being accepted it; he was transgressing, ignorant.*

Why would God create someone only to burn in Hell for all of eternity? 

• What good is a tree that can produce no fruit or anything of value for a farmer aside from being firewood?
• Firewood is still providing value, but the misery is for the one who experienced heaven and then had to spend all of eternity only as firewood 
• Fuel For Hell

[8:37] GOD will sift away the bad from the good, then pile the bad on top of each other, all in one pile, then throw it in Hell. Such are the losers.

[3:10] Those who disbelieve will never be helped by their money, nor by their children, against GOD. They will be fuel for Hell.

[4:56] Surely, those who disbelieve in our revelations, we will condemn them to the hellfire. Whenever their skins are burnt, we will give them new skins. Thus, they will suffer continuously. GOD is Almighty, Most Wise. [4:57] As for those who believe and lead a righteous life, we will admit them into gardens with flowing streams; they abide therein forever. They will have pure spouses therein. We will admit them into a blissful shade.

[2:266] Does any of you wish to own a garden of palm trees and grapes, with flowing streams and generous crops, then, just as he grows old, and while his children are still dependent on him, a holocaust strikes and burns up his garden? GOD thus clarifies the revelations for you, that you may reflect.

 

 

 

 

Fasting (Rebroadcast for Ramadan)

[2:183] O you who believe, fasting is decreed for you, as it was decreed for those before you, that you may attain salvation.

[2:184] Specific days (are designated for fasting); if one is ill or traveling, an equal number of other days may be substituted. Those who can fast, but with great difficulty, may substitute feeding one poor person for each day of breaking the fast. If one volunteers (more righteous works), it is better. But fasting is the best for you, if you only knew.

[2:185] Ramadan is the month during which the Quran was revealed, providing guidance for the people, clear teachings, and the statute book. Those of you who witness this month shall fast therein. Those who are ill or traveling may substitute the same number of other days. GOD wishes for you convenience, not hardship, that you may fulfill your obligations, and to glorify GOD for guiding you, and to express your appreciation.

Is The Quran's Mathematical Miracle A Coincidence?

Is the Quran’s Mathematical Miracle a Coincidence?

Pennsylvania Lottery - 666

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1980_Pennsylvania_Lottery_scandal

On the night of April 24, 1980, more than six million viewers tuned in to the Pennsylvania lottery to watch The Daily Number to find out the winning three numbers for the $3.5 million jackpot.

Since the money drawn in by the lottery was for the benefit of senior citizens they would have a senior citizen draw the numbers and on that day they drew the numbers 6, 6, 6.

So what?

A large number of winners than normal?

So what?

Lottery authorities and local bookmakers became suspicious when they noticed that a large number of tickets were purchased for the eight possible combinations all involving the numbers 4 and 6.

So what?

They found out that the 4 & 6 balls of the drawing were lighter than the other digits at the time of the drawing that the other digits were covered in a thick latex to make them heavier.

So what?

They got a tip from a bar that there were two brothers going from shop to shop purchasing large quantities of lottery tickets in combinations of 4 & 6.

So what?

Well at one of the bars that they bought tickets they made a phone call from the payphone to the studio that was doing the drawing.

So what?

The bartender said it sounded like the person was speaking Greek, and the host of the lottery drawing, Nick Perry happened to also speak Greek.

So what?

When the brothers were questioned they saw that they had a previous vending machine business with the announcer of the lottery, Nick Perry.

So what?

The brothers confessed that the idea was Nick Perry’s

So what?

They found the latex paint in Nick Perry’s studio that was used to weigh down the other digits of the balls for the drawing.

So what?

Nick Perry and the brothers all confessed to the crime…

So what?

Everything in the investigation points to the fact that the drawing was rigged. No sensible person would attribute all these coincidences to pure luck e.g. there are so many lotteries and this just happens to be the one that had a high rate of participants pick numbers eerily close to the winning numbers and a large number of individuals claim to win.

When determining if an event is random or by design, we need to investigate

No different than when police investigating a death - they need to determine was the death caused by natural causes or was there foul play

Probability alone is not a reason to suspect design

Coin Flip

If I flip a coin 50 times in a row

That outcome of heads and tails is incredibly rare such that it probably never happened before in the history of the universe, but there is no significance to that outcome it is purely random

In order to prove that something is not just random, but by design there is a term known as Specified Complexity

Specified complexity is when an event is not only statistically unlikely but the significance of that event occurring is also relevant

Here is an example…

I preemptively obtain a random series of 50 coin flips and am told that I am to flip a coin 50 times that unless I get this exact outcome of heads in tails in the exact order my life will be terminated.

So to my amazement, I flip the coin and obtain that exact outcome and my life is spared.

Is it more likely that I just got really lucky or that the outcome of the coin flip was designed to give that outcome, or that perhaps I just lied and said that I got the same outcome?

This event would posses specified complexity and point towards design

License Plate

Here is another example, a real one from my life

I was in college in a retail parking lot and see a car swerving around the corner driving faster than they should be in a public parking lot.

I look at the plate and see it says CATHUGS

I am thinking I am in California

The car does seem a little beat down and could be driven by a thug

So assume that the plate was not randomly generated by the DMV as it the letters are not just random but point towards things of significance

But I was wrong

The car drives past me and is driven by a larger white woman with pigtails and glasses wearing something out of hot topic and as she drives away I see that the back of her window is full of stuffed cat dolls and stickers of cat paws.

So it didn’t say CA THUGS, but CAT HUGS

You see we do this every day. We see something on the wall of a building and we know that wind and erosion didn’t cause the symbols and that these are actually signs written by intelligent beings.

This is a famous example in regards to being in an alien planet and stumbling upon a watch. No one is going to look at that watch and think that it was created via wind and erosion. It is obvious that the watch was a product of design by an intelligent being not only because of its complexity but because of the application of its design e.g. the ability to be able to tell time.

So now that we set the groundwork

Let’s look at the Mathematical Structure of the Quran

And determine if it is a mere coincidence or a product of design

We have a book that the author claims to be God, The Lord of the Universe

Only God Can Author the Quran 

[10:37] This Quran could not possibly be authored by other than GOD. It confirms all previous messages, and provides a fully detailed scripture. It is infallible; for it comes from the Lord of the universe. 

The Quran contains 114 chapters

29 Chapters in the Quran contains 14 different sets of Quranic Initials

[2:1] A.L.M. [2:2] This scripture is infallible; a beacon for the righteous;

[26:1] T. S. M. [26:2] These (letters) constitute proofs of this clarifying scripture.

[38:1] S. (Saad), and the Quran that contains the proof.**

http://www.masjidtucson.org/quran/appendices/appendix1.html

So far we didn’t pick the book and we didn’t pick the letters - these were given to us

Let’s continue

What about the number 19?

The foundation of the mathematical structure of the Quran is based on the number 19. Where did this number come from?

Sura 74: The Hidden Secret (Al-Muddath-thir)

Cryptography 

https://www.etymonline.com/word/crypto-

[74:1] O you hidden secret.* [74:2] Come out and warn. [74:3] Extol your Lord. [74:4] Purify your garment.*

[74:23] Then he turned away arrogantly. [74:24] He said, "This is but clever magic! [74:25] "This is human made."

The Quran's Common Denominator 

[74:30] Over it is nineteen.* 

[74:31] We appointed angels to be guardians of Hell, and we assigned their number (19) 

(1) to disturb the disbelievers, 

(2) to convince the Christians and Jews (that this is a divine scripture), 

(3) to strengthen the faith of the faithful, 

(4) to remove all traces of doubt from the hearts of Christians, Jews, as well as the believers, and 

(5) to expose those who harbor doubt in their hearts, 

and the disbelievers; they will say, "What did GOD mean by this allegory?" GOD thus sends astray whomever He wills, and guides whomever He wills. None knows the soldiers of your Lord except He. This is a reminder for the people. 

[74:32] Absolutely, (I swear) by the moon. 

[74:33] And the night as it passes. 

[74:34] And the morning as it shines. 

[74:35] This is one of the great miracles. 

[74:36] A warning to the human race.

So we have a book that is claimed to be authored by God

We have 29 chapters that contain 14 different sets of initials

We have the common denominator to decipher this code being the #19

So what..

If you look at every chapter that contains Quranic initials the letters within that chapter are consistently multiples of 19

Q

The letter Q occurs both in sura 42 and 50 and the occurrence of these letter in each of the sura is 57 = 19x3 (despite sura 42 being almost twice as long as sura 50) 

Nun

This initial is unique; it occurs in one sura, 68, and the name of the letter is spelled out as three letters — Noon Wow Noon — in the original text, and is therefore counted as two N's. The total count of this letter in the N-initialed sura is 133, 19x7.

Y.S

These two letters prefix Sura 36. The letter "Y” occurs in this sura 237 times, while the letter "S” (Seen) occurs 48 times. The total of both letters is 285, 19x15.

A.S.Q. (`Ayn Seen Qaf)

These initials constitute Verse 2 of Sura 42, and the total occurrence of these letters in this sura is 209, or 19x11. The letter “ `A” (`Ayn) occurs 98 times, the letter “S” (Seen) occurs 54 times, and the letter “Q” (Qaf) occurs 57 times.

A.L.M.R. (Alef Laam Mim Ra)

These initials prefix one sura, No. 13, and the total frequency of occurrence of the four letters is 1482, or 19x78. The letter “A” occurs 605 times, “L” occurs 480 times, “M” occurs 260 times, and “R” occurs 137 times.

Additionally

1	The first verse (1:1), known as "Basmalah,” consists of	19 letters
2	The Quran consists of 114 suras, which is	19 x 6
3	The total number of verses in the Quran is 6346, or	19 x 334

The word Allah occurs in the Quran 2698

If you add all the verses where the word Allah occurs in the Quran you get 118123

This same pattern holds for all four words in the opening statement of the Quran

There is a difference between someone who shoots an arrow through a bullseye repeatedly, compared to someone who shoots an arrow and then paints a bullseye around it.

Statistically, ~5% of all numbers (1/19) are divisible by 19. This means if you can create enough combinations of any series of numbers, ~5% of those numbers will be multiples of 19. This does not show design let alone a mathematical miracle.

There is a mathematical concept known as specified complexity. This is a mechanism to determine if an outcome of a probabilistic event is random or by design. The best way I can think of to describe an example of specified complexity is the following:

If I flipped a coin 50 times in a row the likeliness of obtaining the series of heads and tails in the sequence I received is incredibly small, 2^50. To put this in perspective the likeliness of this single outcome is the same as identifying one single grain of sand in all of the earth. But this is not a miracle because there is no significance to this number, it is just complex.

Now on the other hand, if specific parameters were determined before the 50 coin toss such that only a single outcome would meet these parameters then we tossed the coin 50 times and matched that sequence identically there will be one of two possibilities (1) I am the luckiest person in the world (2) the coin was designed to achieve that one and only outcome. This makes the outcome specific and complex (e.g. specified complexity)

The Quran's mathematical structure works in the same manner.

The parameters were set for us before any investigation was made into the phenomenon

1. The Quran claims to be a book from God. Therefore, we did not select just a random book or document.

2. The Quran contains 114 chapters of which 29 chapters begin with miscellaneous initials that have been present in the book since its inception 1400 years ago. Therefore we did not arbitrarily select the letters.

3. The unlocking of the mathematical miracle is specified in the Chapter entitled Hidden Secret and is told to us to be the #19. Therefore, we did not select this number it was provided to us by the author of the book.

So we did not pick the book, we did not pick the initials, we did not pick the number. All these parameters were provided prior to the research and discovery of the mathematical miracle.

Therefore, the evidence is overwhelming that the message in the Quran was mathematically coded by the author rather than by chance or by running infinite regressions.

Mount Rushmore

Only God Can Author the Quran 

[10:37] This Quran could not possibly be authored by other than GOD. It confirms all previous messages, and provides a fully detailed scripture. It is infallible; for it comes from the Lord of the universe. 

[10:38] If they say, "He fabricated it," say, "Then produce one sura like these, and invite whomever you wish, other than GOD, if you are truthful." [10:39] Indeed, they have rejected this without studying and examining it, and before understanding it. Thus did those before them disbelieve. Therefore, note the consequences for the transgressors.

Quran Talk – Throw It Down

I Shouldn’t Be Alive (TV Show) -

• Skydiver stranded in middle of ocean should he stay on the log or try to swim to shore 

Happiness Now, and Forever

[22:15] If anyone thinks that GOD cannot support him in this life and in the Hereafter, let him turn completely to (his Creator in) heaven, and sever (his dependence on anyone else). He will then see that this plan eliminates anything that bothers him.

Baby umbilical cord 

Sometimes have to make the decision to throw it down

Moses Staff

[20:17] "What is this in your right hand, Moses?" [20:18] He said, "This is my staff. I lean on it, herd my sheep with it, and I use it for other purposes." [20:19] He said, "Throw it down, Moses." [20:20] He threw it down, whereupon it turned into a moving serpent. [20:21] He said, "Pick it up; do not be afraid. We will return it to its original state.

Moses Mom throw him into the river

[20:38] "When we revealed to your mother what we revealed. [20:39] "Saying: 'Throw him into the box, then throw him into the river. The river will throw him onto the shore, to be picked up by an enemy of Mine and an enemy of his.' I showered you with love from Me, and I had you made before My watchful eye.

Sometimes God has us thrown down because He knows what is best for us

Joseph was thrown into well

Joseph's Fate Already Decided by God* 

[12:9] "Let us kill Joseph, or banish him, that you may get some attention from your father. Afterwards, you can be righteous people." [12:10] One of them said, "Do not kill Joseph; let us throw him into the abyss of the well. Perhaps some caravan can pick him up, if this is what you decide to do.”

Believers are Blessed with God's Assurances 

[12:15] When they went away with him, and unanimously decided to throw him into the abyss of the well, we inspired him: "Some day, you will tell them about all this, while they have no idea."

Joseph was thrown into prison 

[12:32] She said, "This is the one you blamed me for falling in love with. I did indeed try to seduce him, and he refused. Unless he does what I command him to do, he will surely go to prison, and will be debased." [12:33] He said, "My Lord, the prison is better than giving in to them. Unless You divert their scheming from me, I may desire them and behave like the ignorant ones." [12:34] His Lord answered his prayer and diverted their scheming from him. He is the Hearer, the Omniscient. [12:35] Later, they saw to it, despite the clear proofs, that they should imprison him for awhile.

Jonah was thrown overboard /Jonah thrown to the shore 

Jonah 

[37:139] Jonah was one of the messengers. [37:140] He escaped to the loaded ship. [37:141] He rebelled and thus, he joined the losers. [37:142] Consequently, the fish swallowed him, and he was the one to blame. [37:143] If it were not that he resorted to meditation (on God), [37:144] he would have stayed in its belly until the Day of Resurrection. [37:145] We had him thrown up into the desert, exhausted. [37:146] We had a tree of edible fruit grown for him. [37:147] Then we sent him to a hundred thousand, or more. [37:148] They did believe, and we let them enjoy this life.

 

Disbelievers Throw - When we throw for the wrong reasons we will be disappointed 

Moses & Magicians

[7:112] "Let them summon every experienced magician." [7:113] The magicians came to Pharaoh and said, "Do we get paid if we are the winners?" [7:114] He said, "Yes indeed; you will even become close to me." [7:115] They said, "O Moses, either you throw, or we are throwing." [7:116] He said, "You throw." When they threw, they tricked the people's eyes, intimidated them, and produced a great magic. [7:117] We then inspired Moses: "Throw down your staff," whereupon it swallowed whatever they fabricated.

Golden Calf

[20:86] Moses returned to his people, angry and disappointed, saying, "O my people, did your Lord not promise you a good promise? Could you not wait? Did you want to incur wrath from your Lord? Is this why you broke your agreement with me?" [20:87] They said, "We did not break our agreement with you on purpose. But we were loaded down with jewelry, and decided to throw our loads in. This is what the Samarian suggested." [20:88] He produced for them a sculpted calf, complete with a calf's sound. They said, "This is your god, and the god of Moses." Thus, he forgot.

[20:95] He said, "What is the matter with you, O Samarian?" [20:96] He said, "I saw what they could not see. I grabbed a fistful (of dust) from the place where the messenger stood, and used it (to mix into the golden calf). This is what my mind inspired me to do.” [20:97] He said, "Then go, and, throughout your life, do not even come close. You have an appointed time (for your final judgment) that you can never evade. Look at your god that you used to worship; we will burn it and throw it into the sea, to stay down there forever."

Pharaoh and his troops

[28:39] Thus, he and his troops continued to commit arrogance on earth, without any right, and thought that they would not be returned to us. [28:40] Consequently, we punished him and his troops, by throwing them into the sea. Note the consequences for the transgressors. [28:41] We made them imams who led their people to Hell. Furthermore, on the Day of Resurrection, they will have no help.

Thrown in Hell

[41:40] Surely, those who distort our revelations are not hidden from us. Is one who gets thrown into Hell better, or one who comes secure on the Day of Resurrection? Do whatever you wish; He is Seer of everything you do.

[50:24] Throw into Gehenna every stubborn disbeliever.

How do we know if we should throw

How do you determine if you are testing God because you believe God will protect you so you take excessive risk 

Luke 4:

9Then the devil led Him to Jerusalem and set Him on the pinnacle of the temple. “If You are God’s chosen,” he said, “throw Yourself down from here. 10For it is written: ‘He will command His angels concerning You to guard You carefully; 11and they will lift You up in their hands, so that You will not strike Your foot against a stone.’c” 12But Jesus declared, “It also says, ‘Do not put the Lord your God to the test.’d” 13When the devil had finished every temptation, he left Him until an opportune time.

[2:195] You shall spend in the cause of GOD; do not throw yourselves with your own hands into destruction. You shall be charitable; GOD loves the charitable.

We do not go to war with a feather, God has a system and we do not go against that system

[12:67] And he said, "O my sons, do not enter from one door; enter through separate doors. However, I cannot save you from anything that is predetermined by GOD. To GOD belongs all judgments. I trust in Him, and in Him shall all the trusters put their trust.”

The Messenger's Kindness

[3:159]…Once you make a decision, carry out your plan, and trust in GOD. GOD loves those who trust in Him.

Are you breaking another one of God’s commandments in your decision?

[35:8] Note the one whose evil work is adorned in his eyes, until he thinks that it is righteous. GOD thus sends astray whoever wills (to go astray), and He guides whoever wills (to be guided). Therefore, do not grieve over them. GOD is fully aware of everything they do.

Are you giving power to other than God?

[18:39] No one possesses power except GOD (Lã Quwwata Ellã Bellãh).

Are you fearing other than God?

[3:173] When the people say to them, "People have mobilized against you; you should fear them," this only strengthens their faith and they say, "GOD suffices us; He is the best Protector." [3:174] They have deserved GOD's blessings and grace. No harm ever touches them, for they have attained GOD's approval. GOD possesses infinite grace.

Fear: The Devil's Tool

[3:175] It is the devil's system to instill fear into his subjects. Do not fear them and fear Me instead, if you are believers.

[5:54] O you who believe, if you revert from your religion, then GOD will substitute in your place people whom He loves and who love Him. They will be kind with the believers, stern with the disbelievers, and will strive in the cause of GOD without fear of any blame. Such is GOD's blessing; He bestows it upon whomever He wills. GOD is Bounteous, Omniscient.

Quran Talk - Proof of Work (How Can We Serve)

Every year news publications post the best places to work.

The best places to work in 2018 World Wide Technology...

In order to get a job at these companies there are certain criteria their employees need to meet

And if someone doesn’t possess these criteria their prospects of getting a job at one best places to work for looks grim.

Each angel has a specific purpose

The Angels

[37:164] Each one of us has a specific job. [37:165] We are the arrangers. [37:166] We have duly glorified (our Lord).

[13:11] Shifts (of angels) take turns, staying with each one of you—they are in front of you and behind you. They stay with you, and guard you in accordance with GOD's commands…

[50:16] We created the human, and we know what he whispers to himself. We are closer to him than his jugular vein. [50:17] Two recording (angels), at right and at left, are constantly recording.

When we opted to come to this earth in this one last chance to denounce our original sin and to prove that we deserved to be redeemed back into God’s kingdom, God asked the angels to serve the human being during this experiment. It was at this point that Satan was exposed as he refused to serve the human being.

His argument was that he was better than us, therefore he could not bring himself to carry out such a request.

For this, he was banished from God’s kingdom as God had no need for subordinates who refuse to follow His commandments.

[18:51] I never permitted them to witness the creation of the heavens and the earth, nor the creation of themselves. Nor do I permit the wicked to work in My kingdom.*

While some people are solely fixated on getting the best job in this world, what most people are oblivious to is that this life is our schooling, internship, and acceptance for our job in the Hereafter that will last for eternity.

We are going through a curriculum in this life to prepare us for our eternal job.

[36:54] On that day, no soul will be wronged in the least. You will be paid precisely for whatever you did. [36:55] The dwellers of Paradise will be, on that day, happily busy.

During the schooling for our eternal career some people never show up to class, some people show up but don’t pay attention and thus fail, and other show up and succeed.

Proof of Work: Good works vs. Evil Works

[3:30] The day will come when each soul will find all the good works it had done brought forth. As for the evil works, it will wish that they were far, far removed. GOD alerts you that you shall reverence Him alone. GOD is Compassionate towards the people.

[27:46] He said, "O my people, why do you hasten to commit evil instead of good works? If only you implore GOD for forgiveness, you may attain mercy.”

[27:89] Those who bring good works (in their records) will receive far better rewards, and they will be perfectly secure from the horrors of that day. [27:90] As for those who bring evil works, they will be forced into Hell. Do you not get requited for what you did?

God gives us the opportunity to serve Him by doing good deeds and thus earn a place in His kingdom

[36:47] When they are told, "Give from GOD's provisions to you," those who disbelieve say to those who believe, "Why should we give to those whom GOD could feed, if He so willed? You are really far astray.”

The Purpose of Our Life*

[67:2] The One who created death and life for the purpose of distinguishing those among you who would do better. He is the Almighty, the Forgiving.

[90:4] We created the human being to work hard (to redeem himself).*

[3:195] Their Lord responded to them: "I never fail to reward any worker among you for any work you do, be you male or female—you are equal to one another…

[43:32] Are they the ones who assign your Lord's mercy? We have assigned their shares in this life, raising some of them above others in ranks, in order to let them serve one another. The mercy from your Lord is far better than any material they may hoard.

[6:165] He is the One who made you inheritors of the earth, and He raised some of you above others in rank, in order to test you in accordance with what He has given you. Surely, your Lord is efficient in enforcing retribution, and He is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

[49:13] O people, we created you from the same male and female, and rendered you distinct peoples and tribes, that you may recognize one another. The best among you in the sight of GOD is the most righteous. GOD is Omniscient, Cognizant.

How can I serve

In Midyan

[28:22] As he traveled towards Midyan, he said, "May my Lord guide me in the right path." [28:23] When he reached Midyan's water, he found a crowd of people watering, and noticed two women waiting on the side. He said, "What is it that you need?" They said, "We are not able to water, until the crowd disperses, and our father is an old man." [28:24] He watered for them, then turned to the shade, saying, "My Lord, whatever provision You send to me, I am in dire need for it." [28:25] Soon, one of the two women approached him, shyly, and said, "My father invites you to pay you for watering for us." When he met him, and told him his story, he said, "Have no fear. You have been saved from the oppressive people."

[59:9] As for those who provided them with a home and a refuge, and were believers before them, they love those who immigrated to them, and find no hesitation in their hearts in helping them. In fact, they readily give them priority over themselves, even when they themselves need what they give away. Indeed, those who overcome their natural stinginess are the successful ones.

Example of Abraham vs the people of Lot

Tested to See Which Will We Give Priority To?

[18:7] We have adorned everything on earth, in order to test them, and thus distinguish those among them who work righteousness.

[29:2] Do the people think that they will be left to say, "We believe," without being put to the test? [29:3] We have tested those before them, for GOD must distinguish those who are truthful, and He must expose the liars.

Choose Your Priorities Carefully This Life

[17:18] Anyone who chooses this fleeting life as his priority, we will rush to him what we decide to give him, then we commit him to Gehenna, where he suffers forever, despised and defeated. [17:19] As for those who choose the Hereafter as their priority, and work righteousness, while believing, their efforts will be appreciated. [17:20] For each one of them we provide; we provide those and these from your Lord's bounties. Your Lord's bounties are inexhaustible. [17:21] Note how we preferred some people above others (in this life). The differences in the Hereafter are far greater and far more significant.

God is not resource constraint. He has an infinite budget and you just need a reason to justify being hired

God Created Everything In Exact Measure

Jupiter is the 5th planet from the Sun, and the largest planet in the Solar System. How much bigger is Jupiter than Earth? Just to give you a sense of scale, Jupiter is 2.5 times more massive than all the rest of the planets in the Solar System combined. Jupiter’s diameter is 11.2 times larger than Earth. In other words, you could put 11.2 Earths side-by-side to match the diameter of Jupiter. And Jupiter’s volume is even bigger. It would take 1321.3 Earths to fill up the volume of Jupiter. In terms of surface area, Jupiter is 121.9 times bigger than the Earth. That’s how many Earths could be flattened out to cover the surface of Jupiter. Jupiter has 317.8 times the mass of the Earth.

Jupiter from earth is ~588km or 365miles

Comet Shomemaker July 1994: astronomers had not expected to see the fireballs from the impacts and did not have any idea in advance how visible the other atmospheric effects of the impacts would be from Earth. Observers soon saw a huge dark spot after the first impact. The spot was visible even in very small telescopes, and was about 6,000 km (3,700 mi) (one Earth radius) across. This and subsequent dark spots were thought to have been caused by debris from the impacts, and were markedly asymmetric, forming crescent shapes in front of the direction of impact. Over the next six days, 21 distinct impacts were observed, with the largest coming on July 18 at 07:33 UTC when fragment G struck Jupiter. This impact created a giant dark spot over 12,000 km (7,500 mi) across, and was estimated to have released an energy equivalent to 6,000,000 megatons of TNT (600 times the world's nuclear arsenal). Two impacts 12 hours apart on July 19 created impact marks of similar size to that caused by fragment G, and impacts continued until July 22, when fragment W struck the planet.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Comet_Shoemaker%E2%80%93Levy_9

[16:18] If you count GOD's blessings, you cannot possibly encompass them. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

Rare Earth:

• Right distance from the sun
  • Too close and could have phase lock
  • Liquid water
• 92 different elements occur naturally on earth
• Plate tectonics (mountains)
  • [78:6] Did we not make the earth habitable? [78:7] And the mountains izers?
• 71% liquid water

[25:2] The One to whom belongs all sovereignty of the heavens and the earth. He never had a son, nor does He have any partners in sovereignty. He created everything in exact measure; He precisely designed everything.

*25:2 When we launch astronauts into space, we measure precisely the amount of food, water, oxygen, and other needs throughout the journey. Similarly, God has launched us into space—on board spaceship Earth—and He has designed all kinds of renewable provisions for us and other creatures, a perfect design. Think, for example, of the symbiotic relationship between us and the plants; we use the oxygen they produce in photosynthesis, while they use the carbon dioxide we produce in respiration.

[15:19] As for the earth, we constructed it, and placed on it stabilizers (mountains), and we grew on it a perfect balance of everything. [15:20] We made it habitable for you, and for creatures you do not provide for. [15:21] There is nothing that we do not own infinite amounts thereof. But we send it down in precise measure.

Perfect solar eclipse

• Certain size moon (1/4 the size of earth)
  • 23.5 degree axis of the earth
  • 4 seasons
  • Tides
  • climate control

[36:37] Another sign for them is the night: we remove the daylight therefrom, whereupon they are in darkness. [36:38] The sun sets into a specific location, according to the design of the Almighty, the Omniscient. [36:39] The moon we designed to appear in stages, until it becomes like an old curved sheath. [36:40] The sun is never to catch up with the moon—the night and the day never deviate—each of them is floating in its own orbit.

Atmosphere

• Right planetary mass
  • Too big and can lose atmosphere
• The iron core provides a magnetic force field around the earth protecting it’s inhabitants
• The atmosphere of earth blocks the light spectrum that is harmful but allows visible light for photosynthesis

 

Earth's atmosphere is 78% nitrogen, 21% oxygen, 0.9% argon, and 0.03% carbon dioxide with very small percentages of other elements.

With each 1% increase in oxygen in the atmosphere the likeliness of combustion increases by 70%

Think how much more fires there would be

With each 1% decrease in oxygen in the atmosphere the likeliness of combustion drops by 70%

Think how much harder it would have been to harness the power of fire

Signs of God

[36:33] One sign for them is the dead land: we revive it and produce from it grains for their food. [36:34] We grow in it gardens of date palms, and grapes, and we cause springs to gush out therein. [36:35] This is to provide them with fruits, and to let them manufacture with their own hands whatever they need. Would they be thankful? [36:36] Glory be to the One who created all kinds of plants from the earth, as well as themselves, and other creations that they do not even know.

What if there was more nitrogen then we would not be able to see the stars and observe the universe as our clarity of the atmosphere would have been

• Right position in the galaxy
  • Too close to center in addition to more chaotic, wouldn’t be able to differentiate as easily the stars in our galaxy from the stars in other galaxies

Fine-tuning of the universe

A physical constant, sometimes fundamental physical constant, is a physical quantity that is generally believed to be both universal in nature and have constant value in time.

• Strong and weak nuclear force 
• Speed of light
• Mass of electron, proton, neutron, 
• The ratio of electrons to protons

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Physical_constant

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=j23EEu0P3m4

 

Amazing level of fine-tuning in the universe

If any of these constants were off by the slightest bit then there would be not only no life, but:

• No chemistry
• No planets
• No stars
• No galaxies
• No universe 

Gravitational Constant

The force of gravity is determined by the Gravitational constant

If this constant varied by 1 x 10^60 none of us would exist

In comparison, we have 10^14 cells in the body 

There are an estimated 7.5 x 10^18 grains of sand (or seven quintillion, five hundred quadrillion grains)

There are about 10 billion galaxies in the observable universe! The number of stars in a galaxy varies, but assuming an average of 100 billion stars per galaxy means that there are about 1,000,000,000,000,000,000,000 (that's 1 billion trillion) stars in the observable universe! 10^21

If larger by just one part in 10^60 then the universe would have thinned out too rapidly for any stars to form

If decrease by just one part in 10^60 then the universe would be too dense and collapse back on itself

[40:57] The creation of the heavens and the earth is even more awesome than the creation of the human being, but most people do not know.

Big Bang

Or consider the expansion rate of the universe driven by the cosmological constant 

Change in value by one part x 10^120 would cause the universe to expand to rapidly or too slowly 

Number of atoms in the observable universe 10^80

[51:47] We constructed the sky with our hands, and we will continue to expand it.

Entropy necessary for the big bang = 1x10^10^123

Even if we were to write a 0 on each separate proton and on each separate neutron in the entire universe- and we could throw in all the other particles for good measure- we would fall far short of writing down the figure needed to represent 1x10^10^123

The Big Bang Theory Confirmed*

[21:30] Do the unbelievers not realize that the heaven and the earth used to be one solid mass that we exploded into existence? And from water we made all living things. Would they believe? Footnote [21:31] And we placed on earth stabilizers, lest it tumbles with them, and we placed straight roads therein, that they may be guided. [21:32] And we rendered the sky a guarded ceiling. Yet, they are totally oblivious to all the portents therein. [21:33] And He is the One who created the night and the day, and the sun and the moon; each floating in its own orbit.

[14:34] And He gives you all kinds of things that you implore Him for. If you count GOD's blessings, you can never encompass them. Indeed, the human being is transgressing, unappreciative.

Was Prophet Muhammad Infallible?

Messenger selection process

[38:45] Remember also our servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. They were resourceful, and possessed vision. [38:46] We bestowed upon them a great blessing: awareness of the Hereafter. [38:47] They were chosen, for they were among the most righteous. [38:48] Remember Ismail, Elisha, and Zal-Kifl; among the most righteous.

[6:124] When a powerful proof comes to them, they say, "We will not believe, unless we are given what is given to GOD's messengers!" GOD knows exactly who is best qualified to deliver His message. Such criminals will suffer debasement at GOD, and terrible retribution as a consequence of their evil scheming.

[21:7] We did not send before you except men whom we inspired. Ask those who know the scripture, if you do not know.

 

Messengers are just humans…

[25:7] And they said, "How come this messenger eats the food and walks in the markets? If only an angel could come down with him, to serve with him as a preacher!”

[14:11] Their messengers said to them, "We are no more than humans like you, but GOD blesses whomever He chooses from among His servants. We could not possibly show you any kind of authorization, except in accordance with GOD's will. In GOD the believers shall trust.

[18:110] Say, "I am no more than a human like you, being inspired that your god is one god. Those who hope to meet their Lord shall work righteousness, and never worship any other god beside his Lord."

[7:188] Say, "I have no power to benefit myself, or harm myself. Only what GOD wills happens to me. If I knew the future, I would have increased my wealth, and no harm would have afflicted me. I am no more than a warner, and a bearer of good news for those who believe.”

 

They have to go through the hardship and be tested like any other believer. They don’t get a free pass. 

[2:214] Do you expect to enter Paradise without being tested like those before you? They were tested with hardship and adversity, and were shaken up, until the messenger and those who believed with him said, "Where is GOD's victory?" GOD's victory is near.

Victory, Ultimately, Belongs to the Believers

[12:110] Just when the messengers despair, and think that they had been rejected, our victory comes to them. We then save whomever we choose, while our retribution for the guilty people is unavoidable.

 

Did the messengers make mistakes?

• 60:1 - Abraham prayed for forgiveness for this father
• 21:87 - Jonah abandoned his mission
• 12:42 - Joseph implored his prison mate to get out 
• 28:15 Moses killed someone
• 7:22 - Adam approached the tree
• 38:31 - Solomon got distracted with his horses 

All creatures have committed the original sin

[35:45] If GOD punished the people for their sins, He would not leave a single creature on earth. But He respites them for a predetermined interim. Once their interim is fulfilled, then GOD is Seer of His servants.

 

No distinction among God’s messengers

You Shall Not Make Any Distinction Among God's Messengers [2:285] The messenger has believed in what was sent down to him from his Lord, and so did the believers. They believe in GOD, His angels, His scripture, and His messengers: "We make no distinction among any of His messengers." They say, "We hear, and we obey.* Forgive us, our Lord. To You is the ultimate destiny."

 

God Knows We Don't

[17:55] Your Lord is the best knower of everyone in the heavens and the earth. In accordance with this knowledge, we preferred some prophets over others. For example, we gave David the Psalms.

 

Muhammad was just a messenger like the messengers before him

[3:144] Muhammad was no more than a messenger like the messengers before him. Should he die or get killed, would you turn back on your heels? Anyone who turns back on his heels, does not hurt GOD in the least. GOD rewards those who are appreciative.

 

Muhammad had the same shortcomings as any other human or messenger

[48:1] We have bestowed upon you (O Messenger) a great victory. [48:2] Whereby GOD forgives your past sins, as well as future sins, and perfects His blessings upon you, and guides you in a straight path.

God Strengthens the Messenger

[17:73] They almost diverted you from the revelations we have given you. They wanted you to fabricate something else, in order to consider you a friend. [17:74] If it were not that we strengthened you, you almost leaned towards them just a little bit. [17:75] Had you done that, we would have doubled the retribution for you in this life, and after death, and you would have found no one to help you against us.

 

The Blind Man - Favoritism

Sura 80: He Frowned (‘Abasa)

[80:0] In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful [80:1] He (Muhammad) frowned and turned away. [80:2] When the blind man came to him. [80:3] How do you know? He may purify himself. [80:4] Or he may take heed, and benefit from the message. [80:5] As for the rich man. [80:6] You gave him your attention. [80:7] Even though you could not guarantee his salvation. [80:8] The one who came to you eagerly. [80:9] And is really reverent. [80:10] You ignored him. [80:11] Indeed, this is a reminder. [80:12] Whoever wills shall take heed.

The blind man couldn’t see Muhammad frown, but God could

James 2 

3 If you show special attention to the man wearing fine clothes and say, “Here’s a good seat for you,” but say to the poor man, “You stand there” or “Sit on the floor by my feet,” 4 have you not discriminated among yourselves and become judges with evil thoughts?

 

During War

The Sedentary

[9:42] If there were a quick material gain, and a short journey, they would have followed you. But the striving is just too much for them. They will swear by GOD: "If we could, we would have mobilized with you." They thus hurt themselves, and GOD knows that they are liars. [9:43] GOD has pardoned you: why did you give them permission (to stay behind), before you could distinguish those who are truthful from the liars? [9:44] Those who truly believe in GOD and the Last Day do not ask your permission to evade the opportunity to strive with their money and their lives. GOD is fully aware of the righteous.

[8:67] No prophet shall acquire captives, unless he participates in the fighting. You people are seeking the materials of this world, while GOD advocates the Hereafter. GOD is Almighty, Most Wise. [8:68] If it were not for a predetermined decree from GOD, you would have suffered, on account of what you took, a terrible retribution.

 

Prohibition

[66:1] O you prophet, why do you prohibit what GOD has made lawful for you, just to please your wives? GOD is Forgiver, Merciful.

 

Zeid

Major Error Committed by Muhammad

Muhammad the Man Disobeys Muhammad the Messenger

[33:36] No believing man or believing woman, if GOD and His messenger issue any command, has any choice regarding that command. Anyone who disobeys GOD and His messenger has gone far astray.[33:37] Recall that you said to the one who was blessed by GOD, and blessed by you, "Keep your wife and reverence GOD," and you hid inside yourself what GOD wished to proclaim. Thus, you feared the people, when you were supposed to fear only GOD. When Zeid was completely through with his wife, we had you marry her, in order to establish the precedent that a man can marry the divorced wife of his adopted son. GOD's commands shall be done. [33:38] The prophet is not committing an error by doing anything that is made lawful by GOD. Such is GOD's system since the early generations. GOD's command is a sacred duty. [33:39] Those who deliver GOD's messages, and who reverence Him alone, shall never fear anyone but GOD. GOD is the most efficient reckoner.

[29:68] Who is more evil than one who fabricates lies and attributes them to GOD, or rejects the truth when it comes to him? Is Hell not a just retribution for the disbelievers?

 

Idolizing The Prophet And Attributing Lies To God

We have to have Quranic basis when we say something about our religious salvation, otherwise we may be attributing lies to God

[3:79] Never would a human being whom GOD blessed with the scripture and prophethood say to the people, "Idolize me beside GOD." Instead, (he would say), "Devote yourselves absolutely to your Lord alone," according to the scripture you preach and the teachings you learn. [3:80] Nor would he command you to idolize the angels and the prophets as lords. Would he exhort you to disbelieve after becoming submitters?

[39:3] Absolutely, the religion shall be devoted to GOD alone. Those who set up idols beside Him say, "We idolize them only to bring us closer to GOD; for they are in a better position!" GOD will judge them regarding their disputes. GOD does not guide such liars, disbelievers.

[5:44] …. Therefore, do not reverence human beings; you shall reverence Me instead…

Growth Requires Sacrifice

Programmed Cell Death / Apoptosis is a process where the cell self-destructs 

Between 50 and 70 billion cells die each day due to apoptosis in the average human adult. For an average child between the ages of 8 and 14, approximately 20 to 30 billion cells die a day.

Fingers and toes self-destruction to eliminate the webbing

Metamorphosis – only the very basic tissues are spared some of the respiratory system, heart, brain tissue, but aside from that just about the entire caterpillar is dissolved into a liquid that is reassembled into a butterfly

Growth requires change

Change requires something to die (to give up one thing for another)

“The idea that cells take an active part in their own death comes from an observation that in certain cases a cell has to make new molecules in order to die. If you prevent this, the cell can’t die. The cell is participating in its own death because it has to participate to make something in order to die.” 

Kill Your Ego

[2:54] Recall that Moses said to his people, "O my people, you have wronged your souls by worshiping the calf. You must repent to your Creator. You shall kill your egos. This is better for you in the sight of your Creator." He did redeem you. He is the Redeemer, Most Merciful.

If you want something you have to sacrifice something else to get it

Can’t have your cake and eat it too 

Has to make the conscious decision to want to change - 

[13:11] Shifts (of angels) take turns, staying with each one of you—they are in front of you and behind you. They stay with you, and guard you in accordance with GOD's commands. Thus, GOD does not change the condition of any people unless they themselves make the decision to change. If GOD wills any hardship for any people, no force can stop it. For they have none beside Him as Lord and Master.

[38:30] To David we granted Solomon; a good and obedient servant. [38:31] One day he became preoccupied with beautiful horses, until the night fell. [38:32] He then said, "I enjoyed the material things more than I enjoyed worshiping my Lord, until the sun was gone.* [38:33] "Bring them back." (To bid farewell,) he rubbed their legs and necks. [38:34] We thus put Solomon to the test; we blessed him with vast material wealth, but he steadfastly submitted.* 

Sometimes to change you need a catalyst a change agent something to speed up the process  

Change direction of the Qibla

[2:142] The fools among the people would say, "Why did they change the direction of their Qiblah?" Say, "To GOD belongs the east and the west; He guides whoever wills in a straight path." [2:143] We thus made you an impartial community, that you may serve as witnesses among the people, and the messenger serves as a witness among you. We changed the direction of your original Qiblah only to distinguish those among you who readily follow the messenger from those who would turn back on their heels. It was a difficult test, but not for those who are guided by GOD. GOD never puts your worship to waste. GOD is Compassionate towards the people, Most Merciful. 

Isolation – the difference between being buried and planted

Joseph well

Brother’s turned against him and through him into the well and left him for dead

Joseph prison

The governor’s wife schemed against Joseph

[12:33] He said, "My Lord, the prison is better than giving in to them. Unless You divert their scheming from me, I may desire them and behave like the ignorant ones." [12:34] His Lord answered his prayer and diverted their scheming from him. He is the Hearer, the Omniscient. [12:35] Later, they saw to it, despite the clear proofs, that they should imprison him for awhile.

Muhammad Cave  

[9:40] If you fail to support him (the messenger), GOD has already supported him. Thus, when the disbelievers chased him, and he was one of two in the cave, he said to his friend, "Do not worry; GOD is with us." GOD then sent down contentment and security upon him, and supported him with invisible soldiers. He made the word of the disbelievers lowly. GOD's word reigns supreme. GOD is Almighty, Most Wise.

People of the Cave

[18:13] We narrate to you their history, truthfully. They were youths who believed in their Lord, and we increased their guidance. [18:14] We strengthened their hearts when they stood up and proclaimed: "Our only Lord is the Lord of the heavens and the earth. We will never worship any other god beside Him. Otherwise, we would be far astray. [18:15] "Here are our people setting up gods beside Him. If only they could provide any proof to support their stand! Who is more evil than the one who fabricates lies and attributes them to GOD? [18:16] "Since you wish to avoid them, and their worshiping of other than GOD,* let us take refuge in the cave. May your Lord shower you with His mercy and direct you to the right decision."

[18:20] "If they discover you, they will stone you, or force you to revert to their religion, then you can never succeed." 

Mary  

The Birth of Jesus

[19:22] When she bore him, she isolated herself to a faraway place. [19:23] The birth process came to her by the trunk of a palm tree. She said, "(I am so ashamed;) I wish I were dead before this happened, and completely forgotten." [19:24] (The infant) called her from beneath her, saying, "Do not grieve. Your Lord has provided you with a stream. [19:25] "If you shake the trunk of this palm tree, it will drop ripe dates for you.* Footnote [19:26] "Eat and drink, and be happy. When you see anyone, say, 'I have made a vow of silence; I am not talking today to anyone.'" [19:27] She came to her family, carrying him. They said, "O Mary, you have committed something that is totally unexpected. [19:28] "O descendant of Aaron, your father was not a bad man, nor was your mother unchaste." 

The Infant Makes a Statement

[19:29] She pointed to him. They said, "How can we talk with an infant in the crib?" [19:30] (The infant spoke and) said, "I am a servant of GOD. He has given me the scripture, and has appointed me a prophet. [19:31] "He made me blessed wherever I go, and enjoined me to observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) and the obligatory charity (Zakat) for as long as I live. [19:32] "I am to honor my mother; He did not make me a disobedient rebel. [19:33] "And peace be upon me the day I was born, the day I die, and the day I get resurrected." 

Moses

Left Egypt where he met Shuaib and talked with God

Growth comes with trust in God

[22:15] If anyone thinks that GOD cannot support him in this life and in the Hereafter, let him turn completely to (his Creator in) heaven, and sever (his dependence on anyone else). He will then see that this plan eliminates anything that bothers him.

Ostrich Effect – Avoiding Responsibility

Not to be mistaken by hermitism - these are people who were isolated not necessarily by choice, but by circumstances. 

[57:27] Subsequent to them, we sent our messengers. We sent Jesus the son of Mary, and we gave him the Injeel (Gospel), and we placed in the hearts of his followers kindness and mercy. But they invented hermitism which we never decreed for them. All we asked them to do was to uphold the commandments approved by GOD. But they did not uphold the message as they should have. Consequently, we gave those who believed among them their recompense, while many of them were wicked.

Jonah

[21:87] And Zan-Noon (Jonah, "the one with an 'N' in his name"), abandoned his mission in protest, thinking that we could not control him. He ended up imploring from the darkness (of the big fish's belly): "There is no god other than You. Be You glorified. I have committed a gross sin." 

[68:48] You shall steadfastly persevere in carrying out the commands of your Lord. Do not be like (Jonah) who called from inside the fish.

[11:42] As it sailed with them in waves like hills, Noah called his son, who was isolated: "O my son, come ride with us; do not be with the disbelievers." 

Psychological research reveals more about this unhealthy appetite for ignorance. In one study, students watched a bogus educational film about a serious disease called “TAA Deficiency”. In fact, TAA Deficiency is completely fictional, but the students were not told this information; instead, they were asked whether they wished to provide a cheek swab for assessing their risk of developing the disease.

Half of the students were told that if they ever developed TAA Deficiency, then the treatment would involve them taking a two-week course of pills. Of this group, 52% agreed to provide the diagnostic cheek swab.

The other half of students learned the treatment would involve taking the pills for the rest of their lives. Of this group, only 21% agreed to the swab.

These findings demonstrate a common pattern seen in other studies within and beyond the context of healthcare. That is, people are especially resistant to hearing feedback when they believe it could oblige them to do something difficult or unpleasant. 

The Hypocrites

[9:64] The hypocrites worry that a sura may be revealed exposing what is inside their hearts. Say, "Go ahead and mock. GOD will expose exactly what you are afraid of." [9:65] If you ask them, they would say, "We were only mocking and kidding." Say, "Do you realize that you are mocking GOD, and His revelations, and His messenger?" [9:66] Do not apologize. You have disbelieved after having believed. If we pardon some of you, we will punish others among you, as a consequence of their wickedness.

Exposing the Hypocrites

[47:20] Those who believed said: "When will a new sura be revealed?" But when a straightforward sura was revealed, wherein fighting was mentioned, you would see those who harbored doubts in their hearts looking at you, as if death had already come to them. They were thus exposed.

Proof of Faith During Muhammad's Era

[47:21] Obedience and righteous utterances are expected of them. If only they showed confidence in GOD, when mobilization was called for, it would have been better for them.

This is our final chance 

[7:53] Are they waiting until all (prophecies) are fulfilled? The day such fulfillment comes to pass, those who disregarded it in the past will say, "The messengers of our Lord have brought the truth. Are there any intercessors to intercede on our behalf? Would you send us back, so that we change our behavior, and do better works than what we did?" They have lost their souls, and their own innovations have caused their doom.

[23:99] When death comes to one of them, he says, "My Lord, send me back. [23:100] "I will then work righteousness in everything I left." Not true. This is a false claim that he makes. A barrier will separate his soul from this world until resurrection.

[6:27] If only you could see them when they face the hellfire! They would say then, "Woe to us. Oh, we wish if we could go back, and never reject our Lord's revelations, and join the believers." [6:28] As a matter of fact, (they only say this because) their secrets have been exposed. If they go back, they will commit exactly the same crimes. They are liars. 

[35:37] They will scream therein, "Our Lord, if you get us out of here, we will work righteousness, instead of the works we used to do." Did we not give you a life-long chance, with continuous reminders for those who would take heed? Did you not receive the warner? Therefore, taste (the consequences). The transgressors will have no one to help them. 

Like Locusts – Cannibalizing and Fleeing From One Another

[54:6] Ignore them; the day will come when the caller will announce a terrible disaster. [54:7] With their eyes humiliated, they come out of the graves like scattered locusts.

Mutual Blaming 

On the Day of Resurrection

[34:32] The leaders will say to those who followed them, "Are we the ones who diverted you from the guidance after it came to you? No; it is you who were wicked." [34:33] The followers will say to their leaders, "It was you who schemed night and day, then commanded us to be unappreciative of GOD, and to set up idols to rank with Him." They will be ridden with remorse, when they see the retribution, for we will place shackles around the necks of those who disbelieved. Are they not justly requited for what they did? 

[40:47] As they argue in Hell, the followers will say to their leaders, "We used to be your followers, can you spare us any part of this Hell?" [40:48] The leaders will say, "We are all in this together. GOD has judged among the people." 

Believers are like butterflies

[101:4] That is the day when the people come out like swarms of butterflies. 

Believers like a cocoon come out of the graves like butterflies

Believer’s who grow their soul

[79:1] The (angels who) snatch (the souls of the disbelievers) forcibly. [79:2] And those who gently take (the souls of the believers) joyfully.

[91:7] The soul and Him who created it. [91:8] Then showed it what is evil and what is good. [91:9] Successful is one who redeems it. [91:10] Failing is one who neglects it.

Conforming to Survive or to Go Astray

Assyrian Proverb: “The tallest blade of grass is the first to be cut” 

This element of conformity to not be targeted is evolutionarily instilled in us 

Across the entire animal kingdom you see a similar pattern with fish and birds

The reason for this is that it makes it difficult for the animal to focus on anyone out of the group to target so the hunter gets confused and fails in their approach

Zebras blend in to confuse the lion

The thought is that if everyone is responsible then by theory no one is responsible because it is hard to assert blame when everyone is involved

While this works for animals in the wild to preserve their physical survival, the opposite is true for our spiritual survival 

A sure-fire way of not making it to heaven is thinking that if we stick with the majority and just believe what we were told by our parents or religious scholars will be sufficient

[74:49] Why are they so averse to this reminder? [74:50] Running like zebras. [74:51] Who are fleeing from the lion!

We are each responsible for what we believe and how we choose to live our life. On the Day of Judgment, we cannot say that we were only following the group. 

[6:116] If you obey the majority of people on earth, they will divert you from the path of GOD. They follow only conjecture; they only guess. 

The Majority of People Do Not Believe

[12:103] Most people, no matter what you do, will not believe. [12:104] You are not asking them for any money; you simply deliver this reminder for all the people. [12:105] So many proofs in the heavens and the earth are given to them, but they pass by them, heedlessly!

The Majority of Believers Destined for Hell

[12:106] The majority of those who believe in GOD do not do so without committing idol worship.

“Whenever you find yourself on the side of the majority, it is time to reform (or pause and reflect).”

“When you're the only sane person, you look like the only insane person.”

[19:73] When our revelations are recited to them, clearly, those who disbelieve say to those who believe, "Which of us is more prosperous? Which of us is in the majority?" 

Luckily for us God made the Quran easy to learn. You don’t need to be a scholar or even know Arabic to understand the Quran

[54:17] We made the Quran easy to learn. Does any of you wish to learn? 

Those who are sincere will understand it 

[6:20] Those to whom we have given the scripture recognize this as they recognize their own children. The ones who lose their souls are those who do not believe.

Additionally, God holds us responsible each individually based on what information we know and the decisions we made in our own lives. And God made the Quran easy to learn.

Crucial Advice

[17:36] You shall not accept any information, unless you verify it for yourself. I have given you the hearing, the eyesight, and the brain, and you are responsible for using them.

Following Parents Blindly

There are millions of beliefs in this world, ask yourself what is the probability that the belief you were born into was the right one? Maybe it was, but statistically this is pretty low.  

Maintaining the Status Quo: A Human Tragedy

[2:170] When they are told, "Follow what GOD has revealed herein," they say, "We follow only what we found our parents doing." What if their parents did not understand, and were not guided? [2:171] The example of such disbelievers is that of parrots who repeat what they hear of sounds and calls, without understanding. Deaf, dumb, and blind; they cannot understand.

We Are Born With Instinctive Knowledge About God*

[7:172] Recall that your Lord summoned all the descendants of Adam, and had them bear witness for themselves: "Am I not your Lord?" They all said, "Yes. We bear witness." Thus, you cannot say on the Day of Resurrection, "We were not aware of this." [7:173] Nor can you say, "It was our parents who practiced idolatry, and we simply followed in their footsteps. Will You punish us because of what others have innovated?" [7:174] We thus explain the revelations, to enable the people to redeem themselves.*

Following the Parents Blindly: A Common Tragedy

[31:21] When they are told, "Follow these revelations of GOD," they say, "No, we follow only what we found our parents doing." What if the devil is leading them to the agony of Hell?

Do Not Follow Your Parents' Religion Blindly

[5:104] When they are told, "Come to what GOD has revealed, and to the messenger," they say, "What we found our parents doing is sufficient for us." What if their parents knew nothing, and were not guided?

We Are Each Responsible For Our Own Souls

[5:105] O you who believe, you should worry only about your own necks. If the others go astray, they cannot hurt you, as long as you are guided. To GOD is your ultimate destiny, all of you, then He will inform you of everything you had done. 

[2:134] Such is a community from the past. They are responsible for what they earned, and you are responsible for what you earned. You are not answerable for anything they have done. 

[6:121] Do not eat from that upon which the name of GOD has not been mentioned, for it is an abomination. The devils inspire their allies to argue with you; if you obey them, you will be idol worshipers.*

Religious Leaders 

Idea is that this person did all the research I’ll just follow them instead of figuring out myself

Religion is too important for it to be left to the religious scholars 

[14:21] When they all stand before GOD,* the followers will say to the leaders, "We used to follow you. Can you spare us even a little bit of GOD's retribution?" They will say, "Had GOD guided us, we would have guided you. Now it is too late, whether we grieve or resort to patience, there is no exit for us."

Upholding the Teachings of Religious Leaders Instead of God's Teachings

[9:31] They have set up their religious leaders and scholars as lords,* instead of GOD. Others deified the Messiah, son of Mary. They were all commanded to worship only one god. There is no god except He. Be He glorified, high above having any partners. [9:32] They want to put out GOD's light with their mouths, but GOD insists upon perfecting His light, in spite of the disbelievers. 

We each choose a path when it comes to belief the thought that I won’t choose, but instead go with the flow is still a choice

[2:148] Each of you chooses the direction to follow; you shall race towards righteousness. Wherever you may be, GOD will summon you all. GOD is Omnipotent.

Don’t follow the group blindly.

Example of Abraham, Muhammad, Lot, Saleh, Hud, Noah

Ego 

But don’t do the other extreme either and be one who follows only their own ego

The Ego as a god

[25:43] Have you seen the one whose god is his own ego? Will you be his advocate? [25:44] Do you think that most of them hear, or understand? They are just like animals; no, they are far worse. 

Common Form of Idolatry: The Ego As A god

[45:23] Have you noted the one whose god is his ego? Consequently, GOD sends him astray, despite his knowledge, seals his hearing and his mind, and places a veil on his eyes. Who then can guide him, after such a decision by GOD? Would you not take heed?

[47:30] If we will, we can expose them for you, so that you can recognize them just by looking at them. However, you can recognize them by the way they talk. GOD is fully aware of all your works. 

[40:56] Surely, those who argue against GOD's revelations without proof are exposing the arrogance that is hidden inside their chests, and they are not even aware of it. Therefore, seek refuge in GOD; He is the Hearer, the Seer.

People with ego lack sincerity

[2:285] The messenger has believed in what was sent down to him from his Lord, and so did the believers. They believe in GOD, His angels, His scripture, and His messengers: "We make no distinction among any of His messengers." They say, "We hear, and we obey. Forgive us, our Lord. To You is the ultimate destiny."

Mastery: Perfecting Our Submission to God Alone

Mastery. Greene, Robert. Penguin Publishing Group.

“In order to master a field, you must love the subject and feel a profound connection to it. Your interest must transcend the field itself and border on the religious. “ 

[6:161] Say, "My Lord has guided me in a straight path—the perfect religion of Abraham, monotheism. He never was an idol worshiper." [6:162] Say, "My Contact Prayers (Salat), my worship practices, my life and my death, are all devoted absolutely to GOD alone, the Lord of the universe. [6:163] "He has no partner. This is what I am commanded to believe, and I am the first to submit." 

[2:165] …Those who believe love GOD the most.

“A false path in life is generally something we are attracted to for the wrong reasons—money, fame, attention, and so on. If it is attention we need, we often experience a kind of emptiness inside that we are hoping to fill with the false love of public approval. “  

[76:8] They donate their favorite food to the poor, the orphan, and the captive. [76:9] "We feed you for the sake of GOD; we expect no reward from you, nor thanks. [76:10] "We fear from our Lord a day that is full of misery and trouble."

We don’t change because of what we know we change because we care 

[13:11] Shifts (of angels) take turns, staying with each one of you—they are in front of you and behind you. They stay with you, and guard you in accordance with GOD's commands. Thus, GOD does not change the condition of any people unless they themselves make the decision to change. If GOD wills any hardship for any people, no force can stop it. For they have none beside Him as Lord and Master. 

Jiro Dreams of Sushi (85 years old – making sushi for over 60 years) 

“We don’t care about money, All I want to do is make better sushi. I do the same thing over and over improving bit by bit. There is always a yearning to achieve more. I’ll continue to climb, trying to reach the top, but no one knows where the top is.“ - Jiro

In an interview with one of Jiro’s apprentices he said that it took him 10 years before they would allow him to cook the eggs for egg sushi. Even then every time he tried it was rejected. It took him 200 tries before Jiro accepted it and he said when that happened he almost cried, but he kept it to himself because he didn’t want to show his excitement. 

You can be completely dedicated to something yet always be doing whatever you are in the cause of God. The two are one in the same. They do not need to be mutually exclusive.

Someone asking if they should be a doctor because they were concerned that it would distract them from worshipping God. 

“Just as a well-filled day brings blessed sleep, so a well-employed life brings a blessed death.” - Leonardo da Vinci

Importance of repetition 

Commencement speech from US Navy Admiral William McRaven,

If You Want to Change the World, Start Off by Making Your Bed

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=gGRXaFf9LFU 

No broken window policy 

Today we want everything new – we want novelty – constant stimulation 

This is what makes apps like Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and Snapchat so popular

The world is full of information, but what we really need is wisdom 

Wisdom is the condensed down optimal use of information 

And wisdom comes through Mastery 

What is the difference between a chess grandmaster and an intermediate chess player, is that the intermediate player will consider more moves, but the grandmaster while looking at fewer moves will look at only the best ones 

So much of the religion is repetition

5 times a day we perform our Contact Prayers 

[70:34] They consistently observe their contact prayers (Salat), on time.

We recite the same things every time

17 times a day we recite the Al-Fãtehah

[14:40] "My Lord, make me one who consistently observes the Contact Prayers (Salat), and also my children. Our Lord, please answer my prayers.

Before we eat we mention God’s name or when we wake up in the morning we say:

Bismillah AlRahman AlRaheem (In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful) 

Every time we get income we give to Zakat

Remembering God Every Chance We Get

[18:23] You shall not say that you will do anything in the future, [18:24] without saying, "GOD willing."* If you forget to do this, you must immediately remember your Lord and say, "May my Lord guide me to do better next time." 

Each night before going to bed we read Quran and at Dawn we recite Quran 

Even the Quran is repetitive 

The number one feedback I hear from people who are new to Quran is that it is repetitive 

They say: “I get it God is Most Gracious, Most Merciful”

But do they really understand? 

It can take a lifetime to even get a small understanding of what this truly means. 

Just because you read it once, does not mean that you understand it 

Knowing vs. Understanding 

Example of changing the orientation of a bike such that left turns right and vice-versa 

The Backwards Brain Bicycle - Smarter Every Day 133

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MFzDaBzBlL0

It took him weeks to understand the new way of riding the bike, and despite this when he would challenge people they overestimated their abilities 

In the field of psychology, the Dunning–Kruger effect is a cognitive bias wherein people of low ability suffer from illusory superiority, mistakenly assessing their cognitive ability as greater than it is. The cognitive bias of illusory superiority derives from the metacognitive inability of low-ability persons to recognize their own ineptitude; without the self-awareness of metacognition, low-ability people cannot objectively evaluate their actual competence or incompetence.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dunning%E2%80%93Kruger_effect 

Meditation

[17:79] During the night, you shall meditate for extra credit, that your Lord may raise you to an honorable rank. [17:80] And say, "My Lord, admit me an honorable admittance, and let me depart an honorable departure, and grant me from You a powerful support." [17:81] Proclaim, "The truth has prevailed, and falsehood has vanished; falsehood will inevitably vanish." 

[50:40] During the night you shall meditate on His name, and after prostrating. 

Meditation –

144 basketball players split into two groups

1 group practice shooting with one-handed free throws for two weeks

The other group only mentally practiced one-handed free throws for two weeks

At the end of the experiment intermediate and expert players improved by the same amount 

[14:7] Your Lord has decreed: "The more you thank Me, the more I give you." But if you turn unappreciative, then My retribution is severe.

Molecules of Emotion - Candace Pert

When we feel emotions peptides are released through our body

Each cell has receptors for these peptides

When our cells replicate they will form more receptors targeted towards whatever emotions we were feeling more of. 

So if you are happy, your body will find more reasons to find happiness in this world and if you are sad your body will find more reasons to find sadness in this world. 

[22:28] They may seek commercial benefits, and they shall commemorate GOD's name during the specified days for providing them with livestock. "Eat therefrom and feed the despondent and the poor."

Axons & Myelin

Also, when we reinforce a thought we are strengthening the connections in our mind towards that thought.

Our brains are made of axons that carry electrical impulses

These axons are covered with myelin

Myelin serves as an insulator for our axons

When we have a thought certain axons are activated and the more we reinforce this thought the more myelin will insulate these axons reinforcing that thought

How to practice effectively...for just about anything - Annie Bosler and Don Greene

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=f2O6mQkFiiw

[19:75] Say, "Those who choose to go astray, the Most Gracious will lead them on, until they see what is promised for them—either the retribution or the Hour. That is when they find out who really is worse off, and weaker in power." [19:76] GOD augments the guidance of those who choose to be guided. For the good deeds are eternally rewarded by your Lord, and bring far better returns.

This is the reason why what we do everyday more important than what we do every once in a while

Making belief second nature

Don’t think just do

Some people think it is hard to take action, instead I will wait until I have the motivation then I will take action

But more often than not the opposite is true 

First, take action and then your brain will find the motivation to continue

Want to get to a point where God and belief is so ingrained in our day to day that when something happens our natural response is that of a believer. 

We think that because we “know” how to act that we will under the circumstances, but just like the person “thinks” they can ride a reversed bike we will be mistaken.

[3:155] Surely, those among you who turned back the day the two armies clashed have been duped by the devil. This reflects some of the (evil) works they had committed. GOD has pardoned them. GOD is Forgiver, Clement. 

That is why we need the constant reinforcement and practice…

Humans want novelty, they want new, but what God wants to teach us is repetition

The human being is forgetful

[6:68] If you see those who mock our revelations, you shall avoid them until they delve into another subject. If the devil causes you to forget, then, as soon as you remember, do not sit with such evil people. [6:69] The righteous are not responsible for the utterances of those people, but it may help to remind them; perhaps they may be saved. 

Same thing with Joseph in 12:42 – said that the devil made him forget his Lord.

[38:45] Remember also our servants Abraham, Isaac, and Jacob. They were resourceful, and possessed vision. [38:46] We bestowed upon them a great blessing: awareness of the Hereafter. 

One day we will meet our Creator and we will be held responsible for how we used this life and the only thing will matter will be the good deeds we did in this life

[7:51] Those who do not take their religion seriously, and are totally preoccupied with this worldly life, we forget them on that day, because they forgot that day, and because they spurned our revelations. 

[32:14] Taste the consequences of your forgetting this day; now we forget you. You have incurred eternal retribution in return for your own works. 

[39:8] When the human being is afflicted, he implores his Lord, sincerely devoted to Him. But as soon as He blesses him, he forgets his previous imploring, sets up idols to rank with GOD and to divert others from His path. Say, "Enjoy your disbelief temporarily; you have incurred the hellfire." [39:9] Is it not better to be one of those who meditate in the night, prostrating and staying up, being aware of the Hereafter, and seeking the mercy of their Lord? Say, "Are those who know equal to those who do not know?" Only those who possess intelligence will take heed. 

Constantly Remember God

[2:152] You shall remember Me, that I may remember you, and be thankful to Me; do not be unappreciative.

[2:63 & 7:171] …"You shall uphold what we have given you strongly, and remember its contents, that you may be saved."

[7:69] … Remember GOD's blessings, that you may succeed."

[62:10] Once the prayer is completed, you may spread through the land to seek GOD's bounties, and continue to remember GOD frequently, that you may succeed.

[20:14] "I am GOD; there is no other god beside Me. You shall worship Me alone, and observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) to remember Me. 

Whatever we spend thinking about most the day becomes our god.

 

“We shall not cease from exploration, and the end of all our exploring will be to arrive where we started and know the place for the first time.” T.S. Elliot   

Moses and the magicians 

 

These people have made the decisions all their life such that at the moment there was no thinking just reacting 

 

How To Be A Hero - Radiolab

http://www.radiolab.org/story/how-be-hero/

 

Man Is Rescued by Stranger on Subway Tracks

https://www.nytimes.com/2007/01/03/nyregion/03life.html

 

New York Subway Hero – Wesley Autrey (CBSNews)

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_N2zhu5RH34

 

[2:286] GOD never burdens a soul beyond its means: to its credit is what it earns, and against it is what it commits. "Our Lord, do not condemn us if we forget or make mistakes. Our Lord, and protect us from blaspheming against You, like those before us have done. Our Lord, protect us from sinning until it becomes too late for us to repent. Pardon us and forgive us. You are our Lord and Master. Grant us victory over the disbelieving people."

Our Private Key To Unlock God's Message: Sincerity

Public Key Cryptography

• One Public Key one Private Key
• Public Key validates the sender of the message
• Private Key unlocks the message 
• #19 is the public key - anyone anywhere can validate every letter, word, verse, sura of the Quran, but does not mean that they will have access to it
• Sincerity is the private key - this is what allows someone to unlock the message of the Quran.  
• If someone is not sincere - they will not be able to understand Quran

[74:18 – 36] For he reflected, then decided. Miserable is what he decided. Miserable indeed is what he decided. He looked. He frowned and whined. Then he turned away arrogantly. He said, "This is but clever magic! "This is human made." … 

Over it is nineteen.

We appointed angels to be guardians of Hell, and we assigned their number (19)

(1) to disturb the disbelievers,

(2) to convince the Christians and Jews (that this is a divine scripture),

(3) to strengthen the faith of the faithful,

(4) to remove all traces of doubt from the hearts of Christians, Jews, as well as the believers, and

(5) to expose those who harbor doubt in their hearts, and the disbelievers;

they will say, "What did GOD mean by this allegory?" GOD thus sends astray whomever He wills, and guides whomever He wills. None knows the soldiers of your Lord except He. This is a reminder for the people.

Absolutely, (I swear) by the moon. And the night as it passes. And the morning as it shines. This is one of the great miracles. A warning to the human race.

In order to access the Quran we need to be sincere.   

[56:75] I swear by the positions of the stars. [56:76] This is an oath, if you only knew, that is awesome. [56:77] This is an honorable Quran. [56:78] In a protected book. [56:79] None can grasp it except the sincere.*

There are two things that can happen when someone who is not sincere receives the Quran. 

1. They disbelieve 

2. They become a hypocrite

Three Categories of People

(1) The Righteous

[2:3] who believe in the unseen, observe the Contact Prayers (Salat),* and from our** provisions to them, they give to charity. [2:4] And they believe in what was revealed to you, and in what was revealed before you,* and with regard to the Hereafter, they are absolutely certain. [2:5] These are guided by their Lord; these are the winners. 

(2) The Disbelievers

[2:6] As for those who disbelieve, it is the same for them; whether you warn them, or not warn them, they cannot believe. [2:7] GOD seals their minds and their hearing, and their eyes are veiled. They have incurred severe retribution. 

(3) The Hypocrites

[2:8] Then there are those who say, "We believe in GOD and the Last Day," while they are not believers. [2:9] In trying to deceive GOD and those who believe, they only deceive themselves without perceiving. [2:10] In their minds there is a disease. Consequently, GOD augments their disease. They have incurred a painful retribution for their lying. [2:11] When they are told, "Do not commit evil," they say, "But we are righteous!" [2:12] In fact, they are evildoers, but they do not perceive. [2:13] When they are told, "Believe like the people who believed," they say, "Shall we believe like the fools who believed?" In fact, it is they who are fools, but they do not know. [2:14] When they meet the believers, they say, "We believe," but when alone with their devils, they say, "We are with you; we were only mocking." [2:15] GOD mocks them, and leads them on in their transgressions, blundering. [2:16] It is they who bought the straying, at the expense of guidance. Such trade never prospers, nor do they receive any guidance. [2:17] Their example is like those who start a fire, then, as it begins to shed light around them, GOD takes away their light, leaving them in darkness, unable to see. [2:18] Deaf, dumb, and blind; they fail to return. 

They will be blocked out if they are not sincere

Divine Intervention

[18:57] Who are more evil than those who are reminded of their Lord's proofs, then disregard them, without realizing what they are doing. Consequently, we place shields on their hearts to prevent them from understanding it (the Quran), and deafness in their ears. Thus, no matter what you do to guide them, they can never ever be guided.

[35:8] Note the one whose evil work is adorned in his eyes, until he thinks that it is righteous. GOD thus sends astray whoever wills (to go astray), and He guides whoever wills (to be guided). Therefore, do not grieve over them. GOD is fully aware of everything they do.

[15:90] We will deal with the dividers. [15:91] They accept the Quran only partially.

Can’t take the interpretation of one verse when it contradicts the other.

[3:78] Among them are those who twist their tongues to imitate the scripture, that you may think it is from the scripture, when it is not from the scripture, and they claim that it is from GOD, when it is not from GOD. Thus, they utter lies and attribute them to GOD, knowingly.

[4:44] Have you noted those who received a portion of the scripture, and how they choose to stray, and wish that you stray from the path? 

This is part of God’s system

[2:88] Some would say, "Our minds are made up!" Instead, it is a curse from GOD, as a consequence of their disbelief, that keeps them from believing, except for a few of them. 

[3:178] Let not the disbelievers think that we lead them on for their own good. We only lead them on to confirm their sinfulness. They have incurred a humiliating retribution. 

[45:23] Have you noted the one whose god is his ego? Consequently, GOD sends him astray, despite his knowledge, seals his hearing and his mind, and places a veil on his eyes. Who then can guide him, after such a decision by GOD? Would you not take heed?

That is why it is so important to kill our egos in order to understand God’s message

If we want to be sincere we have to kill our egos – start fresh and listen to what God tells us in the Quran

God is Most Gracious, Most Merciful 

Instinctive Knowledge about who our Lord is

[7:172] Recall that your Lord summoned all the descendants of Adam, and had them bear witness for themselves: "Am I not your Lord?" They all said, "Yes. We bear witness." Thus, you cannot say on the Day of Resurrection, "We were not aware of this." [7:173] Nor can you say, "It was our parents who practiced idolatry, and we simply followed in their footsteps. Will You punish us because of what others have innovated?" [7:174] We thus explain the revelations, to enable the people to redeem themselves.* 

[52:25] They will meet each other and reminisce among themselves. [52:26] They will say, "We used to be kind and humble among our people. [52:27] "GOD has blessed us, and has spared us the agony of ill winds. [52:28] "We used to implore Him; He is the Most Kind, Most Merciful.”

[47:29] Did those who harbor doubts in their hearts think that GOD will not bring out their evil thoughts?

[47:30] If we will, we can expose them for you, so that you can recognize them just by looking at them. However, you can recognize them by the way they talk. GOD is fully aware of all your works.

[47:31] We will certainly put you to the test, in order to distinguish those among you who strive, and steadfastly persevere. We must expose your true qualities.

[3:7] He sent down to you this scripture, containing straightforward verses—which constitute the essence of the scripture—as well as multiple-meaning or allegorical verses. Those who harbor doubts in their hearts will pursue the multiple-meaning verses to create confusion, and to extricate a certain meaning. None knows the true meaning thereof except GOD and those well founded in knowledge. They say, "We believe in this—all of it comes from our Lord." Only those who possess intelligence will take heed.

[83:7] Indeed, the book of the wicked is in Sijjeen. [83:8] Do you know what Sijjeen is? [83:9] A numerically structured book.

[83:18] Indeed, the book of the righteous will be in 'Elleyyeen. [83:19] Do you know what 'Elleyyeen is? [83:20] A numerically structured book.

Solomon and The Queen of Sheba 

[27:20] He inspected the birds, and noted: "Why do I not see the hoopoe? Why is he missing? [27:21] "I will punish him severely or sacrifice him, unless he gives me a good excuse." [27:22] He did not wait for long. (The hoopoe) said, "I have news that you do not have. I brought to you from Sheba, some important information. [27:23] "I found a woman ruling them, who is blessed with everything, and possesses a tremendous palace. [27:24] "I found her and her people prostrating before the sun, instead of GOD. The devil has adorned their works in their eyes, and has repulsed them from the path; consequently, they are not guided." [27:25] They should have been prostrating before GOD, the One who manifests all the mysteries in the heavens and the earth, and the One who knows everything you conceal and everything you declare. [27:26] GOD: there is no other god beside Him; the Lord with the great dominion. [27:27] (Solomon) said, "We will see if you told the truth, or if you are a liar. [27:28] "Take this letter from me, give it to them, then watch for their response."

Back in Sheba

[27:29] She said, "O my advisers, I have received an honorable letter. [27:30] "It is from Solomon, and it is, 'In the name of GOD, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.' [27:31] "Proclaiming: 'Do not be arrogant; come to me as submitters.'" [27:32] She said, "O my advisers, counsel me in this matter. I am not deciding anything until you advise me." [27:33] They said, "We possess the power, we possess the fighting skills, and the ultimate command is in your hand. You decide what to do." [27:34] She said, "The kings corrupt any land they invade, and subjugate its dignified people. This is what they usually do. [27:35] "I am sending a gift to them; let us see what the messengers come back with." [27:36] When the hoopoe returned to Solomon (he told him the news), and he responded (to Sheba's people): "Are you giving me money? What GOD has given me is far better than what He has given you. You are the ones to rejoice in such gifts." [27:37] (To the hoopoe, he said,) "Go back to them (and let them know that) we will come to them with forces they cannot imagine. We will evict them, humiliated and debased."

Faster Than the Speed of Light

[27:38] He said, "O you elders, which of you can bring me her mansion, before they arrive here as submitters?" [27:39] One afrit from the jinns said, "I can bring it to you before you stand up. I am powerful enough to do this." [27:40] The one who possessed knowledge from the book said, "I can bring it to you in the blink of your eye." When he saw it settled in front of him, he said, "This is a blessing from my Lord, whereby He tests me, to show whether I am appreciative or unappreciative. Whoever is appreciative is appreciative for his own good, and if one turns unappreciative, then my Lord is in no need for him, Most Honorable." [27:41] He said, "Remodel her mansion for her. Let us see if she will be guided, or continue with the misguided." [27:42] When she arrived, she was asked, "Does your mansion look like this?" She said, "It seems that this is it." (Solomon said,) "We knew beforehand what she was going to do, and we were already submitters."  [27:43] She had been diverted by worshiping idols instead of GOD; she belonged to disbelieving people. [27:44] She was told, "Go inside the palace." When she saw its interior, she thought it was a pool of water, and she (pulled up her dress,) exposing her legs. He said, "This interior is now paved with crystal." She said, "My Lord, I have wronged my soul. I now submit with Solomon to GOD, Lord of the universe."

Solomon – Judgment to cut the baby in half.

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Judgment_of_Solomon

Contradictions In Quran

1. Allah created man from

Embryo 

[96:0] In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful [96:1] Read, in the name of your Lord, who created. [96:2] He created man from an embryo. [96:3] Read, and your Lord, Most Exalted. [96:4] Teaches by means of the pen. [96:5] He teaches man what he never knew.

Water

[25:54] He is the One who created from water a human being, then made him reproduce through marriage and mating. Your Lord is Omnipotent.

Dust

[30:20] Among His proofs is that He created you from dust, then you became reproducing humans.

Nothing

[19:67] Did the human being forget that we created him already, and he was nothing?

Clay

[15:26] We created the human being from aged mud, like the potter's clay.

 

[21:30] Do the unbelievers not realize that the heaven and the earth used to be one solid mass that we exploded into existence? And from water we made all living things. Would they believe?

Prior to the big bang there was nothing – so we came from nothing 

After big-bang there was Stardust these are all the elements that make up a human in total I believe there are about 27 different elements that the human body consists of 

If I say I made an apple pie, the ingredients will be dependent on how detailed I want to get. Flour => Wheat => Earth => Water => Stardust etc.

Also, going to link to the audio of a video showing just how profound the first revelation of the Quran the first five verses of Sura 96 are so profound regarding the process of an embryo. Part of it is visual so I’ll link to the actual video, but I think you will still appreciate what is said.

EMBRYO = LEECH | AMAZING QURAN MIRACLE | #MINDBLOW

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sYajKl-Xr6c

 

2. They lost their own souls, who will not believe (6:12) God causes to stray whom He wills (16:93) 

The 6:12 verse does not sound right

[6:12] Say, "To whom belongs everything in the heavens and the earth?" Say, "To GOD." He has decreed that mercy is His attribute. He will surely summon you all on the Day of Resurrection, which is inevitable. The ones who lose their souls are those who disbelieve.

But from 16:93 I think I understand the argument

[16:93] Had GOD willed, He could have made you one congregation. But He sends astray whoever chooses to go astray, and He guides whoever wishes to be guided.* You will surely be asked about everything you have done.

Do human beings have free will according to the Quran. The answer is yes:

[33:72] We have offered the responsibility (freedom of choice) to the heavens and the earth, and the mountains, but they refused to bear it, and were afraid of it. But the human being accepted it; he was transgressing, ignorant.* 

So why does it say that God leads people astray in 16:93?

When we make a choice our minds are designed to confirm that choice – this is by the design of God. That is why it says

[19:75] Say, "Those who choose to go astray, the Most Gracious will lead them on, until they see what is promised for them—either the retribution or the Hour. That is when they find out who really is worse off, and weaker in power." [19:76] GOD augments the guidance of those who choose to be guided. For the good deeds are eternally rewarded by your Lord, and bring far better returns. 

This is called confirmation bias – we look for information that will confirm our existing beliefs.

[9:115] GOD does not send any people astray, after He had guided them, without first pointing out for them what to expect. GOD is fully aware of all things.

 

3. Will intercession be possible on the Day of Judgment?

[2:123] Beware of the day when no soul will help another soul, no ransom will be accepted, no intercession will be useful, and no one will be helped. 

[2:254] O you who believe, you shall give to charity from the provisions we have given to you, before a day comes where there is no trade, no nepotism, and no intercession. The disbelievers are the unjust.

[20:109] On that day, intercession will be useless, except for those permitted by the Most Gracious, and whose utterances conform to His will.

To believe that anyone, other than God, can intercede on our behalf to have our sins forgiven or our wishes fulfilled, is to set up partners with God. This is idolatry. 

The Quran proclaims that "All intercession belongs to God" (39:44), and that there will be "no intercession on the Day of Judgment" (2:254). 

The myth of intercession is one of Satan's most effective tricks to dupe millions of people into idol worship. Millions of Christians believe that Jesus will intercede for them at God, and millions of Muslims believe that Muhammad will intercede on their behalf.

Consequently, these people idolize Jesus and Muhammad. The concept of intercession is utterly illogical. Those who believe in Muhammad's intercession, for example, claim that he will ask God to forgive them and admit them into Paradise. They imagine Muhammad on the Day of Judgment choosing the candidates for his intercession. If you ask those who believe in intercession: "How will Muhammad recognize those who deserve his intercession?" they tell you, "God will tell him!" According to this concept, a person will go to Muhammad and request his intercession. Muhammad will then ask God whether this person deserves his intercession or not. God will inform Muhammad that the person deserves to go to Paradise. Muhammad will then turn around and tell God that the person deserves to go to Paradise! The blasphemy is obvious; those who believe in intercession make God a secretary of their idol Muhammad. God be glorified. 

Since the Quran is the most accurate book, it acknowledges that everyone in Paradise will intercede on behalf of his or her loved ones: "Please God, admit my mother into Paradise." This intercession will work if the person's mother deserves to go to Paradise (2:255, 20:109, 21:28). Thus, intercession, though it will take place in this manner, is utterly useless.

We learn from the Quran that Abraham, God's beloved servant, could not intercede on behalf of his father (9:114). Noah could not intercede on behalf of his son (11:46). Muhammad could not intercede on behalf of his uncle (111:1-3) or relatives (9:80). What makes anyone think that a prophet or a saint will intercede on behalf of a perfect stranger?! See 2:48, 123; 6:51, 70, 94; 7:53; 10:3; 19:87; 26:100; 30:13; 32:4; 36:23; 39:44; 40:18; 43:86; 53:26 & 74:48. Muhammad's intercession is in 25:30.

[25:30] The messenger* said, "My Lord, my people have deserted this Quran."

 

4. Does God command to do evil in the Quran? (7:328? & 17:16)

I think they meant 17:38 

[17:38] All bad behavior is condemned by your Lord.

[17:16] If we are to annihilate any community, we let the leaders commit vast corruption therein. Once they deserve retribution, we annihilate it completely. 

God prohibits all bad behavior (17:38), but God gave us freedom of choice & He allows people to commit evil to confirm their true convictions

[3:178] Let not the disbelievers think that we lead them on for their own good. We only lead them on to confirm their sinfulness.

[47:29] Did those who harbor doubts in their hearts think that GOD will not bring out their evil thoughts? [47:30] If we will, we can expose them for you, so that you can recognize them just by looking at them. However, you can recognize them by the way they talk. GOD is fully aware of all your works. [47:31] We will certainly put you to the test, in order to distinguish those among you who strive, and steadfastly persevere. We must expose your true qualities.

[68:42] The day will come when they will be exposed, and they will be required to fall prostrate, but they will be unable to. [68:43] With their eyes subdued, humiliation will cover them. They were invited to fall prostrate when they were whole and able. [68:44] Therefore, let Me deal with those who reject this Hadith; we will lead them on whence they never perceive. [68:45] I will give them enough rope; My scheming is formidable.

 

5. Can slander of chaste women be forgiven? (24:4-5 & 24:23)

[24:4] Those who accuse married women of adultery, then fail to produce four witnesses, you shall whip them eighty lashes, and do not accept any testimony from them; they are wicked. [24:5] If they repent afterwards and reform, then GOD is Forgiver, Merciful. 

Gross Sin

[24:23] Surely, those who falsely accuse married women who are pious believers have incurred condemnation in this life and in the Hereafter; they have incurred a horrendous retribution. [24:24] The day will come when their own tongues, hands, and feet will bear witness to everything they had done. [24:25] On that day, GOD will requite them fully for their works, and they will find out that GOD is the Truth.

The answer to this dilemma is if they repent. 

[39:53] Proclaim: "O My servants who exceeded the limits, never despair of GOD's mercy. For GOD forgives all sins. He is the Forgiver, Most Merciful.” 

[9:11] If they repent and observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) and give the obligatory charity (Zakat), then they are your brethren in religion. We thus explain the revelations for people who know.

 

6. What will the people of Hell eat? (84:6 & 69:36)

[88:4] Suffering in a blazing Hellfire. [88:5] Drinking from a flaming spring. [88:6] They will have no food except the useless variety. [88:7] It never nourishes, nor satisfies hunger.

[69:36] Nor any food, except the bitter variety. [69:37] Food for the sinners. 

[37:62] Is this a better destiny, or the tree of bitterness? [37:63] We have rendered it a punishment for the transgressors. [37:64] It is a tree that grows in the heart of Hell. [37:65] Its flowers look like the devils' heads. [37:66] They will eat from it until their bellies are filled up. [37:67] Then they will top it with a hellish drink. [37:68] Then they will return to Hell.

[44:43] Surely, the tree of bitterness— [44:44] will provide the food for the sinful. [44:45] Like lye, it will boil in the stomachs. [44:46] Like the boiling of hellish drinks. [44:47] Take him and throw him into the center of Hell. [44:48] Then pour upon his head the retribution of the Inferno. [44:49] "Taste this; you were so powerful, so honorable." [44:50] This is what you used to doubt. 

All descriptions of Heaven and Hell are purely allegorical.

[2:25] Give good news to those who believe and lead a righteous life that they will have gardens with flowing streams. When provided with a provision of fruits therein, they will say, "This is what was provided for us previously." Thus, they are given allegorical descriptions. They will have pure spouses therein, and they abide therein forever.

Why so graphic?

God does not shy away from any allegory.

God is letting us know just how terrible Hell is so that we make the right choice. Otherwise, we will complain that we had no idea it was so bad 

Like a doctor who tells you that if you keep living an unhealthy life you will have health problems and troubles – it isn’t that the doctor is mean they are just the only ones willing to be honest with you.

 

7. Earth created then heaven or Heaven created then earth?

[2:29] He is the One who created for you everything on earth, then turned to the sky and perfected seven universes therein,* and He is fully aware of all things.

[79:27] Are you more difficult to create than the heaven? He constructed it. [79:28] He raised its masses, and perfected it. [79:29] He made its night dark, and brightened its morn. [79:30] He made the earth egg-shaped.

79:27 - 30 is not a chronology but just two statements.

Also read in 21:30 about the Big Bang

*79:30 The Arabic word "dahhaahaa" is derived from "Dahhyah" which means "egg."

In Arabia, at the time they didn’t have chickens, but more likely to have ostriches

Ostrich egg – oblate spheroid – where it is almost perfectly round but one hemisphere is more narrow than the other just slightly

 

8. If unbelievers reject the Quran let them be (3:20), If unbelievers reject the Quran you shall fight them (8:38-39)

[3:20] If they argue with you, then say, "I have simply submitted myself to GOD; I and those who follow me." You shall proclaim to those who received the scripture, as well as those who did not, "Would you submit?" If they submit, then they have been guided, but if they turn away, your sole mission is to deliver this message. GOD is Seer of all people. 

[8:38] Tell those who disbelieved: if they stop, all their past will be forgiven. But if they return, they will incur the same fate as their previous counterparts. [8:39] You shall fight them to ward off oppression, and to practice your religion devoted to GOD alone. If they refrain from aggression, then GOD is fully Seer of everything they do.

Rules of War*

[2:190] You may fight in the cause of GOD against those who attack you, but do not aggress. GOD does not love the aggressors.

[2:191] You may kill those who wage war against you, and you may evict them whence they evicted you. Oppression is worse than murder. Do not fight them at the Sacred Mosque (Masjid), unless they attack you therein. If they attack you, you may kill them. This is the just retribution for those disbelievers.

[2:192] If they refrain, then GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

[2:193] You may also fight them to eliminate oppression, and to worship GOD freely. If they refrain, you shall not aggress; aggression is permitted only against the aggressors. 

The Quran does not shy away from talking about proper conduct during war. And yes during war lives will be lost – it will not be pillow fights and tickling.

 

9. Creation was an act of bringing together(41:11), Creation was an act of splitting apart (21:30)?

The Big Bang Theory Confirmed*

[21:30] Do the unbelievers not realize that the heaven and the earth used to be one solid mass that we exploded into existence? And from water we made all living things. Would they believe?

[41:11] Then He turned to the sky, when it was still gas, and said to it, and to the earth, "Come into existence, willingly or unwillingly." They said, "We come willingly.”

 

10. The first Muslim was Muhammad (6:14, 6:163, 39:12), Moses (7:143), some Egyptians (26:51)?

[6:14] Say, "Shall I accept other than GOD as a Lord and Master, when He is the Initiator of the heavens and the earth, and He feeds but is not fed?" Say, "I am commanded to be the most devoted submitter, and, 'Do not be an idol worshiper.' "

[6:163] "He has no partner. This is what I am commanded to believe, and I am the first to submit."

[39:11] Say, "I have been commanded to worship GOD, devoting the religion absolutely to Him alone. [39:12] "And I was commanded to be the utmost submitter."

[7:143] When Moses came at our appointed time, and his Lord spoke with him, he said, "My Lord, let me look and see You." He said, "You cannot see Me. Look at that mountain; if it stays in its place, then you can see Me." Then, his Lord manifested Himself to the mountain, and this caused it to crumble. Moses fell unconscious. When he came to, he said, "Be You glorified. I repent to You, and I am the most convinced believer."

Context: these are the magicians at the time of Moses

[26:51] "We hope that our Lord will forgive us our sins, especially that we are the first believers."

Muslim just means one who submits to God alone.

[2:62] Surely, those who believe, those who are Jewish, the Christians, & the converts; anyone who (1) believes in GOD, & (2) believes in the Last Day, and (3) leads a righteous life, will receive their recompense from their Lord. They have nothing to fear, nor will they grieve

The first person to call us Submitters was Abraham.

Abraham: Original Messenger of Islam*

[22:78] You shall strive for the cause of GOD as you should strive for His cause. He has chosen you and has placed no hardship on you in practicing your religion—the religion of your father Abraham. He is the one who named you "Submitters" originally…

[16:123] Then we inspired you (Muhammad) to follow the religion of Abraham,* the monotheist; he never was an idol worshiper.

James 4:7 - Submit yourselves, then, to God. Resist the devil, and he will flee from you.

 

The Push

What you just listened to was a trailer for a Netflix original called the Push

The Push is a social experiment conducted by Derren Brown who is a British mentalist. 

If you have been listening to the podcast you might have heard me reference Darren Brown and some of the social illusions he has run.

He really is an experiment of understanding human psychology

The premise in the push is can he create a scenario where within a span of 72 minutes he can create a scenario where a person will push a human off a building to their death.

SPOILER ALERT…. 

IF YOU HAVE NOT SEEN IT AND YOU WANT TO SEE IT PLEASE GO WATCH IT FIRST AND THEN LISTEN TO THE PODCAST

IF YOU DON’T CARE ABOUT HEARING WHAT HAPPENED THEN CONTINUE LISTENING 

I think the biggest mistake most people make when watching one of these social experiments is thinking what is wrong with these people…I would never do that

I noticed the people who are in complete denial about their ability to be manipulated are the most susceptible

We need to watch things like this and think no this could be me

I could be the person in this experiment and be cajoled into doing something that I would have never thought I would do in a million years

Example of Adam and Eve in paradise being tempted by the devil

[4:119] "I will mislead them, I will entice them, I will command them to (forbid the eating of certain meats by) marking the ears of livestock, and I will command them to distort the creation of GOD." Anyone who accepts the devil as a lord, instead of GOD, has incurred a profound loss. [4:120] He promises them and entices them; what the devil promises is no more than an illusion.

[7:17] "I will come to them from before them, and from behind them, and from their right, and from their left, and You will find that most of them are unappreciative."

[17:64] "You may entice them with your voice, and mobilize all your forces and all your men against them, and share in their money and children, and promise them. Anything the devil promises is no more than an illusion. 

[7:202] Their brethren ceaselessly entice them to go astray.

[29:3] We have tested those before them, for GOD must distinguish those who are truthful, and He must expose the liars.

[29:10] Among the people there are those who say, "We believe in GOD," but as soon as they suffer any hardship because of GOD, they equate the people's persecution with GOD's retribution. But if blessings from your Lord come your way, they say, "We were with you." Is GOD not fully aware of the people's innermost thoughts? [29:11] GOD will most certainly distinguish those who believe, and He will most certainly expose the hypocrites.

[3:154]… GOD thus puts you to the test to bring out your true convictions, and to test what is in your hearts.

In the push, they showed how they selected participants for the experiment

They wanted to see how agreeable and likely people would be to go with the group 

Sitting and Standing -

They had three actors sitting in a waiting room and then one by one they brought in people who wanted to be on the show then a bell would ring and the actors would stand then a bell ring and they would sit. 

Social Pressure: 

God Strengthens the Messenger

[17:73] They almost diverted you from the revelations we have given you. They wanted you to fabricate something else, in order to consider you a friend. [17:74] If it were not that we strengthened you, you almost leaned towards them just a little bit. [17:75] Had you done that, we would have doubled the retribution for you in this life, and after death, and you would have found no one to help you against us. [17:76] They almost banished you from the land to get rid of you, so they could revert as soon as you left. [17:77] This has been consistently the case with all the messengers that we sent before you, and you will find that our system never changes.

Abraham

Back to Abraham

[29:24] The only response from his people was their saying, "Kill him, or burn him." But GOD saved him from the fire. This should provide lessons for people who believe.

Social Pressure: A Profound Disaster

[29:25] He said, "You worship beside GOD powerless idols due to peer pressure, just to preserve some friendship among you in this worldly life. But then, on the Day of Resurrection, you will disown one another, and curse one another. Your destiny is Hell, wherein you cannot help one another."

[29:26] Lot believed with him and said, "I am emigrating to my Lord. He is the Almighty, the Most Wise." 

Lot and the people of Sodom and Gomorrah

Example of Joseph

God Protects the Believers From Sin

[12:23] The lady of the house where he lived tried to seduce him. She closed the doors and said, "I am all yours." He said, "May GOD protect me. He is my Lord, who gave me a good home.* The transgressors never succeed." Footnote [12:24] She almost succumbed to him, and he almost succumbed to her, if it were not that he saw a proof from his Lord. We thus diverted evil and sin away from him, for he was one of our devoted servants.

Evil invites sin

[3:155] Surely, those among you who turned back the day the two armies clashed have been duped by the devil. This reflects some of the (evil) works they had committed. GOD has pardoned them. GOD is Forgiver, Clement.

[6:132] Everyone will attain a rank commensurate with their deeds. Your Lord is never unaware of anything they do.

Righteousness invites God’s protection and grace

[7:26] O children of Adam, we have provided you with garments to cover your bodies, as well as for luxury. But the best garment is the garment of righteousness. These are some of GOD's signs, that they may take heed.

The Only Criterion For Distinguishing Among The People

[49:13] O people, we created you from the same male and female, and rendered you distinct peoples and tribes, that you may recognize one another. The best among you in the sight of GOD is the most righteous. GOD is Omniscient, Cognizant.

Quran Alone

Quran Alone

God's Messenger of the Covenant*

[25:27] The day will come when the transgressor will bite his hands (in anguish) and say, "Alas, I wish I had followed the path with the messenger. [25:28] "Alas, woe to me, I wish I did not take that person as a friend. [25:29] "He has led me away from the message after it came to me. Indeed, the devil lets down his human victims." [25:30] The messenger* said, "My Lord, my people have deserted this Quran."

 

Quran Should Be Our Only Source for Religious Law

Quran, the Whole Quran, and Nothing But the Quran

[6:19] Say, "Whose testimony is the greatest?" Say, "GOD's. He is the witness between me and you that this Quran* has been inspired to me, to preach it to you and whomever it reaches. Indeed, you bear witness that there are other gods* beside GOD." Say, "I do not testify as you do; there is only one god, and I disown your idolatry."

Quran: The ONLY Source

[17:46] We place shields around their minds, to prevent them from understanding it, and deafness in their ears. And when you preach your Lord, using the Quran alone,* they run away in aversion.

[18:27] You shall recite what is revealed to you of your Lord's scripture. Nothing shall abrogate His words, and you shall not find any other source beside it. 

Following Other Sources Means You Do Not Believe In God 

Hadith & Sunna: Fabrications by the Prophet's Enemies

[6:112] We have permitted the enemies of every prophet—human and jinn devils—to inspire in each other fancy words, in order to deceive. Had your Lord willed, they would not have done it. You shall disregard them and their fabrications.

Important Criterion

[6:113] This is to let the minds of those who do not believe in the Hereafter listen to such fabrications, and accept them, and thus expose their real convictions.* 

The Idols: Innovating New Religious Laws*

[42:21] They follow idols who decree for them religious laws never authorized by GOD. If it were not for the predetermined decision, they would have been judged immediately. Indeed, the transgressors have incurred a painful retribution.* 

[4:60] Have you noted those who claim that they believe in what was revealed to you, and in what was revealed before you, then uphold the unjust laws of their idols? They were commanded to reject such laws. Indeed, it is the devil's wish to lead them far astray. [4:61] When they are told, "Come to what GOD has revealed, and to the messenger," you see the hypocrites shunning you completely. 

We can get inspiration from anyone or anything, but when it comes to our religious salvation and the religious laws we live by it all comes 100% from God’s infallible message via the Quran

  

Fully Detailed

Animals and Birds: Submitting Creatures*

[6:38] All the creatures on earth, and all the birds that fly with wings, are communities like you. We did not leave anything out of this book.** To their Lord, all these creatures will be summoned.

Quran: Fully Detailed*

[6:114] Shall I seek other than GOD as a source of law, when He has revealed to you this book fully detailed?* Those who received the scripture recognize that it has been revealed from your Lord, truthfully. You shall not harbor any doubt. [6:115] The word of your Lord is complete,* in truth and justice. Nothing shall abrogate His words. He is the Hearer, the Omniscient. [6:116] If you obey the majority of people on earth, they will divert you from the path of GOD. They follow only conjecture; they only guess. 

[18:54] We have cited in this Quran every kind of example, but the human being is the most argumentative creature. 

[39:27] We have cited for the people every kind of example in this Quran, that they may take heed.

[16:89] The day will come when we will raise from every community a witness from among them, and bring you as the witness of these people. We have revealed to you this book to provide explanations for everything, and guidance, and mercy, and good news for the submitters.

Mathematical Composition of the Quran

[17:88] Say, "If all the humans and all the jinns banded together in order to produce a Quran like this, they can never produce anything like it, no matter how much assistance they lent one another." [17:89] We have cited for the people in this Quran all kinds of examples, but most people insist upon disbelieving.

[7:52] We have given them a scripture that is fully detailed, with knowledge, guidance, and mercy for the people who believe.

  

No Contradictions

Proof of Divine Authorship

[4:82] Why do they not study the Quran carefully? If it were from other than GOD, they would have found in it numerous contradictions.*

Quran: No Ambiguity

[39:27] We have cited for the people every kind of example in this Quran, that they may take heed. [39:28] An Arabic Quran, without any ambiguity, that they may be righteous. [39:29] GOD cites the example of a man who deals with disputing partners (Hadith), compared to a man who deals with only one consistent source (Quran). Are they the same? Praise be to GOD; most of them do not know.

[12:3] We narrate to you the most accurate history through the revelation of this Quran. Before this, you were totally unaware.

 

Healing and Mercy or Tool For Tyranny 

[16:67] And from the fruits of date palms and grapes you produce intoxicants, as well as good provisions. This should be (sufficient) proof for people who understand.

Healing and Mercy

[17:82] We send down in the Quran healing and mercy for the believers. At the same time, it only increases the wickedness of the transgressors.

Numerically Structured Books

[83:7] Indeed, the book of the wicked is in Sijjeen. [83:8] Do you know what Sijjeen is? [83:9] A numerically structured book. [83:10] Woe on that day to the rejectors. .. 

[83:18] Indeed, the book of the righteous will be in 'Elleyyeen. [83:19] Do you know what 'Elleyyeen is? [83:20] A numerically structured book. [83:21] To be witnessed by those close to Me. 

[10:57] O people, enlightenment has come to you herein from your Lord, and healing for anything that troubles your hearts, and guidance, and mercy for the believers.

 

Focus On What Is Important

[5:101] O you who believe, do not ask about matters which, if revealed to you prematurely, would hurt you. If you ask about them in light of the Quran, they will become obvious to you. GOD has deliberately overlooked them. GOD is Forgiver, Clement.

[18:22] Some would say, "They were three; their dog being the fourth," while others would say, "Five; the sixth being their dog," as they guessed. Others said, "Seven," and the eighth was their dog. Say, "My Lord is the best knower of their number." Only a few knew the correct number. Therefore, do not argue with them; just go along with them. You need not consult anyone about this.

[16:39] He will then point out to everyone all the things they had disputed, and will let those who disbelieved know that they were liars.

 

Ablution Is Only Four Steps

Ablution

[5:6] O you who believe, when you observe the Contact Prayers (Salat), you shall: (1) wash your faces, (2) wash your arms to the elbows, (3) wipe your heads, and (4) wash your feet to the ankles…

[6:121] Do not eat from that upon which the name of GOD has not been mentioned, for it is an abomination. The devils inspire their allies to argue with you; if you obey them, you will be idol worshipers.*

 

Whole Quran

[47:24] Why do they not study the Quran carefully? Do they have locks on their minds?

[4:44] Have you noted those who received a portion of the scripture, and how they choose to stray, and wish that you stray from the path?

What Nullifies Ablution

[4:43] O you who believe, do not observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) while intoxicated, so that you know what you are saying…

[5:90] O you who believe, intoxicants, and gambling, and the altars of idols, and the games of chance are abominations of the devil; you shall avoid them, that you may succeed.

 

Ocean’s of Ink

The Quran: Everything We Need

[18:109] Say, "If the ocean were ink for the words of my Lord, the ocean would run out, before the words of my Lord run out, even if we double the ink supply."

These Are All the Words We Need

[31:27] If all the trees on earth were made into pens, and the ocean supplied the ink, augmented by seven more oceans, the words of GOD would not run out. GOD is Almighty, Most Wise.

Be Kind To One Another

Be Kind To One Another

Continue on from the last podcast regarding a loan of righteousness… 

Fair vs. Kind 

[5:8] O you who believe, you shall be absolutely equitable, and observe GOD, when you serve as witnesses. Do not be provoked by your conflicts with some people into committing injustice. You shall be absolutely equitable, for it is more righteous. You shall observe GOD. GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do.

Submitters

[41:33] Who can utter better words than one who invites to GOD, works righteousness, and says, "I am one of the submitters"? [41:34] Not equal is the good response and the bad response. You shall resort to the nicest possible response. Thus, the one who used to be your enemy, may become your best friend. [41:35] None can attain this except those who steadfastly persevere. None can attain this except those who are extremely fortunate.

Traits of the Believers

[42:37] They avoid gross sins and vice, and when angered they forgive. [42:38] They respond to their Lord by observing the Contact Prayers (Salat). Their affairs are decided after due consultation among themselves, and from our provisions to them they give (to charity). [42:39] When gross injustice befalls them, they stand up for their rights. [42:40] Although the just requital for an injustice is an equivalent retribution, those who pardon and maintain righteousness are rewarded by GOD. He does not love the unjust. [42:41] Certainly, those who stand up for their rights, when injustice befalls them, are not committing any error. [42:42] The wrong ones are those who treat the people unjustly, and resort to aggression without provocation. These have incurred a painful retribution. [42:43] Resorting to patience and forgiveness reflects a true strength of character.

Don’t be a pushover - Earth will be inhabited by the meek 

Matthew 5:5 - Blessed are the meek: for they shall inherit the earth.

Jordan Peterson

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Matthew_5:5

[5:54] O you who believe, if you revert from your religion, then GOD will substitute in your place people whom He loves and who love Him. They will be kind with the believers, stern with the disbelievers, and will strive in the cause of GOD without fear of any blame. Such is GOD's blessing; He bestows it upon whomever He wills. GOD is Bounteous, Omniscient.

[52:25] They will meet each other and reminisce among themselves. [52:26] They will say, "We used to be kind and humble among our people. [52:27] "GOD has blessed us, and has spared us the agony of ill winds. [52:28] "We used to implore Him; He is the Most Kind, Most Merciful." 

Charlie Brown & Franz Stigler

• December 20^th 1943
• B-17 Bomber
• 40 years later they meet

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charlie_Brown_and_Franz_Stigler_incident 

Dehumanization

• Black vs. whites
• Jewish
• Today’s Refugees 

The Only Criterion For Distinguishing Among The People

[49:13] O people, we created you from the same male and female, and rendered you distinct peoples and tribes, that you may recognize one another. The best among you in the sight of GOD is the most righteous. GOD is Omniscient, Cognizant.

Quran: The Ultimate Reference

[5:48] Then we revealed to you this scripture, truthfully, confirming previous scriptures, and superseding them. You shall rule among them in accordance with GOD's revelations, and do not follow their wishes if they differ from the truth that came to you. For each of you, we have decreed laws and different rites. Had GOD willed, He could have made you one congregation. But He thus puts you to the test through the revelations He has given each of you. You shall compete in righteousness. To GOD is your final destiny—all of you—then He will inform you of everything you had disputed.

Treat Each Other Amicably

[17:53] Tell My servants to treat each other in the best possible manner, for the devil will always try to drive a wedge among them. Surely, the devil is man's most ardent enemy.

 

Being King Means Getting Outside Of Your Comfort Zone

[59:8] (You shall give) to the needy who immigrated. They were evicted from their homes and deprived of their properties, because they sought GOD's grace and pleasure, and because they supported GOD and His messenger. They are the truthful. [59:9] As for those who provided them with a home and a refuge, and were believers before them, they love those who immigrated to them, and find no hesitation in their hearts in helping them. In fact, they readily give them priority over themselves, even when they themselves need what they give away. Indeed, those who overcome their natural stinginess are the successful ones.

 

Self

[12:53] "I do not claim innocence for myself. The self is an advocate of vice, except for those who have attained mercy from my Lord. My Lord is Forgiver, Most Merciful."

60 Minutes – Saving The Children

https://www.cbsnews.com/news/saving-the-children-on-eve-of-world-war-11-60-minutes/?authenticated=1

Nicholas Winton who went to Prague, and ended up saving the lives of 669 children, mostly Jews, from almost certain death. His story begins at the end of 1938, with Europe on the brink of war. In Germany, violence against Jews was escalating and the infamous Munich Agreement paved the way for Hitler's armies to march unopposed into Czechoslovakia.

In London, Nicholas Winton had been following events and knew that refugees fleeing the Nazis were in dire straits. He went to Czechoslovakia to see if there was anything he could do to help. What's strange is that for almost 50 years, he hardly told anyone about what he had accomplished and for 50 years, the children knew nothing about who had saved them or how.

Governor & Joseph

[12:21] The one who bought him in Egypt said to his wife, "Take good care of him. Maybe he can help us, or maybe we can adopt him." We thus established Joseph on earth, and we taught him the interpretation of dreams. GOD's command is always done, but most people do not know. 

Pharaoh’s wife

[28:9] Pharaoh's wife said, "This can be a joyous find for me and you. Do not kill him, for he may be of some benefit for us, or we may adopt him to be our son." They had no idea.

Be Kind To Your Parents

Major Commandments

[17:22] You shall not set up any other god beside GOD, lest you end up despised and disgraced. [17:23] Your Lord has decreed that you shall not worship except Him, and your parents shall be honored. As long as one or both of them live, you shall never say to them, "Uff" (the slightest gesture of annoyance), nor shall you shout at them; you shall treat them amicably. [17:24] And lower for them the wings of humility, and kindness, and say, "My Lord, have mercy on them, for they have raised me from infancy." [17:25] Your Lord is fully aware of your innermost thoughts. If you maintain righteousness, He is Forgiver of those who repent.

If you want to change the world start by helping your parents with the dishes

Feeding Others – Our Instinct to Not Share Food

[22:28] They may seek commercial benefits, and they shall commemorate GOD's name during the specified days for providing them with livestock. "Eat therefrom and feed the despondent and the poor."

We do it to please God

[2:263] Kind words and compassion are better than a charity that is followed by insult. GOD is Rich, Clement.

Feed the captive

[76:8] They donate their favorite food to the poor, the orphan, and the captive. [76:9] "We feed you for the sake of GOD; we expect no reward from you, nor thanks.

Moses Watering

In Midyan

[28:22] As he traveled towards Midyan, he said, "May my Lord guide me in the right path." [28:23] When he reached Midyan's water, he found a crowd of people watering, and noticed two women waiting on the side. He said, "What is it that you need?" They said, "We are not able to water, until the crowd disperses, and our father is an old man." [28:24] He watered for them, then turned to the shade, saying, "My Lord, whatever provision You send to me, I am in dire need for it." [28:25] Soon, one of the two women approached him, shyly, and said, "My father invites you to pay you for watering for us." When he met him, and told him his story, he said, "Have no fear. You have been saved from the oppressive people." 

Abraham

You Shall Disown God's Enemies Abraham Disowned His Father

[9:113] Neither the prophet, nor those who believe shall ask forgiveness for the idol worshipers, even if they were their nearest of kin, once they realize that they are destined for Hell. [9:114] The only reason Abraham asked forgiveness for his father was that he had promised him to do so. But as soon as he realized that he was an enemy of GOD, he disowned him. Abraham was extremely kind, clement.

Roasted Calf vs. Sodom and Gomorrah

Lot & Abraham part company - I cut you choose

Summary 

[90:11] He should choose the difficult path. [90:12] Which one is the difficult path? [90:13] The freeing of slaves. [90:14] Feeding, during the time of hardship. [90:15] Orphans who are related. [90:16] Or the poor who is in need. [90:17] And being one of those who believe, and exhorting one another to be steadfast, and exhorting one another to be kind.  

Loan of Righteousness

Think of an investment you missed out on

• Housing provided $1T wealth in the terms of home equity to home owners in 2017
• Amazon & Apple if invested years ago could have made so much money.
• Bitcoin going up from nothing to being worth ~$10k – Store of Value 

All investments at one point didn’t look so promising so they were valued low. At that time there was no guarantee that the investment would be successful so people stayed away.

There is only a single investment that we can say with absolute certainty

The Best Investment

[2:261] The example of those who spend their monies in the cause of GOD is that of a grain that produces seven spikes, with a hundred grains in each spike. GOD multiplies this manifold for whomever He wills. GOD is Bounteous, Knower.

Return = 70,000% * manifold

They say there is no such thing as a sure thing…

Preoccupation With the Wrong Life

[30:6] Such is GOD's promise—and GOD never breaks His promise—but most people do not know. [30:7] They care only about things of this world that are visible to them, while being totally oblivious to the Hereafter.

Currency in the hereafter is righteousness 

[2:197] Hajj shall be observed in the specified months.* Whoever sets out to observe Hajj shall refrain from sexual intercourse, misconduct, and arguments throughout Hajj. Whatever good you do, GOD is fully aware thereof. As you prepare your provisions for the journey, the best provision is righteousness. You shall observe Me, O you who possess intelligence.

God is the source of righteousness

[74:56] They cannot take heed against GOD's will. He is the source of righteousness; He is the source of forgiveness.

We can take a loan of righteousness and God will pay us back

[2:245] Who would lend GOD a loan of righteousness, to have it repaid to them multiplied manifold? GOD is the One who provides and withholds, and to Him you will be returned.

[57:11] Who would like to loan GOD a loan of righteousness, to have it multiplied for him manifold, and end up with a generous recompense?

[64:17] If you lend GOD a loan of righteousness, He will multiply the reward for you manifold, and forgive you. GOD is Appreciative, Clement.

 

God is giving us an opportunity to earn credit

[36:47] When they are told, "Give from GOD's provisions to you," those who disbelieve say to those who believe, "Why should we give to those whom GOD could feed, if He so willed? You are really far astray."

 

God’s resources are inexhaustible

[17:20] For each one of them we provide; we provide those and these from your Lord's bounties. Your Lord's bounties are inexhaustible.

[17:100] Proclaim, "If you possessed my Lord's treasures of mercy, you would have withheld them, fearing that you might exhaust them. The human being is stingy."

Caring only about things in this world 

[3:14] Adorned for the people are the worldly pleasures, such as the women, having children, piles upon piles of gold and silver, trained horses, livestock, and crops. These are the materials of this world. A far better abode is reserved at GOD.

[4:134] Anyone who seeks the materials of this world should know that GOD possesses both the materials of this world and the Hereafter. GOD is Hearer, Seer.

This world is an illusion

• Digital Goods - Sims / 2nd Life - would you be envious of someone who had a nice car or home in the digital world?
• Instagram lives
• When we know this world is an illusion and we are not taking anything of this world with us to the Hereafter, then why do we get so caught up with material posseessions? 

If we get more than we can handle we will transgress

[42:27] If GOD increased the provision for His servants, they would transgress on earth. This is why He sends it precisely measured to whomever He wills. He is fully Cognizant and Seer of His servants.

Materials of This World: All That The Disbelievers Get [43:33]

If it were not that all the people might become one (disbelieving) congregation, we would have granted everyone who disbelieves in the Most Gracious mansions with silver roofs, and stairs upon which they could climb. [43:34] Their mansions would have impressive gates, and luxurious furnishings. [43:35] Also many ornaments. All these are the temporary materials of this lowly life. The Hereafter—at your Lord—is far better for the righteous.

God's System Does Not Change

[9:69] Some of those before you were stronger than you, and possessed more money and children. They became preoccupied with their material possessions. Similarly, you have become preoccupied with your material possessions, just like those before you have become preoccupied. You have become totally heedless, just as they were heedless. Such are the people who nullify their works, both in this world and in the Hereafter; they are the losers.

 

Dirty money- self-justification 

Scott Tucker and payday loans in the United States. CLK Management

made loans with terms that included renewals and fees, as well as interest rates as high as 700% per year. 

Greed monopoly study

Given twice as much money, can roll two dice as opposed to one dice, has the nice car as opposed to the shoe, when pass go gets to collect $200 while the other person gets to collect $100

Even though one player was randomly selected to be rigged to win the game when they asked why they won they said because I deserved to win. They start attributing their success to their own skills and talents and become less in tuned with the circumstantial events that allowed them to win

Qaroon

Qãroon

[28:76] Qãroon (the slave driver) was one of Moses' people who betrayed them and oppressed them. We gave him so many treasures that the keys thereof were almost too heavy for the strongest band. His people said to him, "Do not be so arrogant; GOD does not love those who are arrogant.

[28:77] "Use the provisions bestowed upon you by GOD to seek the abode of the Hereafter, without neglecting your share in this world. Be charitable, as GOD has been charitable towards you. Do not keep on corrupting the earth. GOD does not love the corruptors."

Stinginess & Extravagant

[17:26] You shall give the due alms to the relatives, the needy, the poor, and the traveling alien, but do not be excessive, extravagant. [17:27] The extravagant are brethren of the devils, and the devil is unappreciative of his Lord.

Stinginess Condemned

[17:29] You shall not keep your hand stingily tied to your neck, nor shall you foolishly open it up, lest you end up blamed and sorry.

[28:78] He said, "I attained all this because of my own cleverness." Did he not realize that GOD had annihilated before him generations that were much stronger than he, and greater in number? The (annihilated) transgressors were not asked about their crimes.

[28:79] One day, he came out to his people in full splendor. Those who preferred this worldly life said, "Oh, we wish that we possess what Qãroon has attained. Indeed, he is very fortunate."

The Real Wealth

[28:80] As for those who were blessed with knowledge, they said, "Woe to you, GOD's recompense is far better for those who believe and lead a righteous life." None attains this except the steadfast.

The Tyrants' Inevitable Fate

[28:81] We then caused the earth to swallow him and his mansion. No army could have helped him against GOD; he was not destined to be a winner.

[28:82] Those who were envious of him the day before said, "Now we realize that GOD is the One who provides for whomever He chooses from among His servants, and withholds. If it were not for GOD's grace towards us, He could have caused the earth to swallow us too. We now realize that the disbelievers never succeed."

Owners of the Garden

Property as an Idol*

[18:32] Cite for them the example of two men: we gave one of them two gardens of grapes, surrounded by date palms, and placed other crops between them.

[18:33] Both gardens produced their crops on time, and generously, for we caused a river to run through them.

[18:34] Once, after harvesting, he boastfully told his friend: "I am far more prosperous than you, and I command more respect from the people."

[18:35] When he entered his garden, he wronged his soul by saying, "I do not think that this will ever end.

[18:36] "Moreover, I think this is it; I do not think that the Hour (the Hereafter) will ever come to pass. Even if I am returned to my Lord, I will (be clever enough to) possess an even better one over there."

[18:37] His friend said to him, as he debated with him, "Have you disbelieved in the One who created you from dust, then from a tiny drop, then perfected you into a man?

[18:38] "As for me, GOD is my Lord, and I will never set up any other god besides my Lord.

Important Commandment

[18:39] "When you entered your garden, you should have said, 'This is what GOD has given me (Mã Shã Allãh). No one possesses power except GOD (Lã Quwwata Ellã Bellãh).' You may see that I possess less money and less children than you.

[18:40] "My Lord may grant me better than your garden. He may send a violent storm from the sky that wipes out your garden, leaving it completely barren.

[18:41] "Or, its water may sink deeper, out of your reach."

[18:42] Indeed, his crops were wiped out, and he ended up sorrowful, lamenting what he had spent on it in vain, as his property lay barren. He finally said, "I wish I never set up my property as a god beside my Lord."

[18:43] No force on earth could have helped him against GOD, nor was it possible for him to receive any help.

[18:44] That is because the only true Lord and master is GOD; He provides the best recompense, and with Him is the best destiny.

[18:45] Cite for them the example of this life as water that we send down from the sky to produce plants of the earth, then they turn into hay that is blown away by the wind. GOD is able to do all things.

Rearranging Our Priorities

[18:46] Money and children are the joys of this life, but the righteous works provide an eternal recompense from your Lord, and a far better hope.

[18:47] The day will come when we wipe out the mountains, and you will see the earth barren. We will summon them all, not leaving out a single one of them.

[18:48] They will be presented before your Lord in a row. You have come to us as individuals, just as we created you initially. Indeed, this is what you claimed will never happen.

[18:49] The record will be shown, and you will see the guilty fearful of its contents. They will say, "Woe to us. How come this book leaves nothing, small or large, without counting it?" They will find everything they had done brought forth. Your Lord is never unjust towards anyone.

Preoccupation With This Life Condemned

[57:20] Know that this worldly life is no more than play and games, and boasting among you, and hoarding of money and children. It is like abundant rain that produces plants and pleases the disbelievers. But then the plants turn into useless hay, and are blown away by the wind. In the Hereafter there is either severe retribution, or forgiveness from GOD and approval. This worldly life is no more than a temporary illusion. 

How to not let greed get the best of us? Pick the difficult path…

[90:10] Did we not show him the two paths?

[90:11] He should choose the difficult path.

[90:12] Which one is the difficult path?

[90:13] The freeing of slaves.

[90:14] Feeding, during the time of hardship.

[90:15] Orphans who are related.

[90:16] Or the poor who is in need.

[90:17] And being one of those who believe, and exhorting one another to be steadfast, and exhorting one another to be kind.

[90:18] These have deserved happiness.

God makes the difficult Easy

[65:4] As for the women who have reached menopause, if you have any doubts, their interim shall be three months. As for those who do not menstruate, and discover that they are pregnant, their interim ends upon giving birth. Anyone who reverences GOD, He makes everything easy for him.

[65:5] This is GOD's command that He sends down to you. Anyone who reverences GOD, He remits his sins, and rewards him generously.

[65:7] The rich husband shall provide support in accordance with his means, and the poor shall provide according to the means that GOD bestowed upon him. GOD does not impose on any soul more than He has given it. GOD will provide ease after difficulty. 

Fair Weather & Bad Weather Friends

Need to believe the thesis both during the good times and bad 

Fair Weather Friends

[29:10] Among the people there are those who say, "We believe in GOD," but as soon as they suffer any hardship because of GOD, they equate the people's persecution with GOD's retribution. But if blessings from your Lord come your way, they say, "We were with you." Is GOD not fully aware of the people's innermost thoughts? 

Bad Weather Friends

[17:67] If you are afflicted in the middle of the sea, you forget your idols and sincerely implore Him alone. But as soon as He saves you to the shore, you revert. Indeed, the human being is unappreciative.

[31:32] When violent waves surround them, they implore GOD, sincerely devoting their prayers to Him alone. But as soon as He saves them to the shore, some of them revert. None discards our revelations except those who are betrayers, unappreciative. 

[89:15] When the human being is tested by his Lord, through blessings and joy, he says, "My Lord is generous towards me." [89:16] But if He tests him through reduction in provisions, he says, "My Lord is humiliating me!" [89:17] Wrong! It is you who brought it on yourselves by not regarding the orphan. [89:18] And not advocating charity towards the poor. [89:19] And consuming the inheritance of helpless orphans. [89:20] And loving the money too much.

[56:10] Then there is the elite of the elite. [56:11] They are those who will be closest (to God). [56:12] In the gardens of bliss. [56:13] Many from the first generations.* [56:14] Few from the later generations. 

Howard Marks, CFA, is the Co-Chairman of Oaktree Capital: "In the search for market inefficiencies, it helps to get to a market early, before it becomes understood, popular and respectable. There’s nothing like playing in an “easy game” – an inefficient asset class – where the other investors are few in number, ill-informed or biased negatively. That’s far easier than trying to be the smartest person in a game that everyone understands and is eager to play."

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Want vs. Need

Do you know what you are made of?

Moses

[26:10] Recall that your Lord called Moses: "Go to the transgressing people. [26:11] "Pharaoh's people; perhaps they reform." [26:12] He said, "My Lord, I fear lest they disbelieve me. [26:13] "I may lose my temper. My tongue gets tied; send for my brother Aaron. [26:14] "Also, they consider me a fugitive; I fear lest they kill me." [26:15] He said, "No, (they will not). Go with My proofs. We will be with you, listening. 

[20:41] "I have made you just for Me. [20:42] "Go with your brother, supported by My signs, and do not waver in remembering Me.

 

[2:286] GOD never burdens a soul beyond its means: to its credit is what it earns, and against it is what it commits. "Our Lord, do not condemn us if we forget or make mistakes. Our Lord, and protect us from blaspheming against You, like those before us have done. Our Lord, protect us from sinning until it becomes too late for us to repent. Pardon us and forgive us. You are our Lord and Master. Grant us victory over the disbelieving people." 

[7:42] As for those who believe and lead a righteous life—we never burden any soul beyond its means—these will be the dwellers of Paradise. They abide in it forever. 

[23:62] We never burden any soul beyond its means, and we keep a record that utters the truth. No one will suffer injustice.

Planet Earth Season II – Episode 4 - Deserts

• Kalahari Desert watering hole
• 100km from the nest’s of the sandgrouse chicks
• Father has to make a 200km round trip to get water for their young
• Threat of getting trampled by zebras, elephants or eaten by hawks
• Go on every day for two months

Human being wants the easy way out – think it is better for them

[17:11] The human being often prays for something that may hurt him, thinking that he is praying for something good. The human being is impatient.

 

Sometimes you need God to save you from what you want so He can give you what you need

 

Uber 

Uber drivers thinking they want Uber to incorporate tips, but when they did their wages actually went down? Why, because when the announcement that they added the ability to include tips was made this caused more people to want to drive for Uber and this increased the supply of drivers, but not the demand for rides.  

Believers: The Ultimate Victors

[2:216] Fighting may be imposed on you, even though you dislike it. But you may dislike something which is good for you, and you may like something which is bad for you. GOD knows while you do not know. 

Jonah Nineveh - thinking he can abandon his mission

Assyrians 

• Very bad reputation as a ruthless people
• Using the skins and bones of the people they conquered 
• Stone carvings of their ruthlessness as opposed to the Persian showing diversity and friendship
• Cutting off the heads and sticking them on spikes 
• Eyes poked out 
• heads cut off 
• The Mesopotamian god Ashur was the head of the Assyrian pantheon, and hence every decision made by the ruler was taken under the symbolic ‘validation’ of Ashur – ranging from plundering, massacres to even domestic policies.

"Yahweh again commands Jonah to travel to Nineveh and prophesy to its inhabitants.[11] This time he goes and enters the city, crying, "In forty days Nineveh shall be overthrown."[12] After Jonah has walked across Nineveh, the people of Nineveh begin to believe his word and proclaim a fast.[13] The king of Nineveh puts on sackcloth and sits in ashes, making a proclamation which decrees fasting, the wearing of sackcloth, prayer, and repentance.[14] God sees their repentant hearts and spares the city at that time.[15] The entire city is humbled and broken with the people (and even the animals)[16][17] in sackcloth and ashes.[18]”

Nineveh Syriac: ܢܝܼܢܘܹܐ‎ was an ancient Assyrian city of Upper Mesopotamia, located on the outskirts of Mosul in modern-day northern Iraq. It is located on the eastern bank of the Tigris River, and was the capital of the Neo-Assyrian Empire. Nowadays it is a common name for the half of Mosul which lies on the eastern bank of the Tigris.

Battle of Mosul (2016–2017)[edit] Main articles: Mosul offensive (2016) and Battle of Mosul (2016–17) After more than two years of IS occupation of Mosul, Iraqi, Kurdish, American and French forces launched a joint offensive to recapture the city on 16 October 2016.[89][90] The battle for Mosul was considered key in the military intervention against IS.[91] Turkish warplanes participated in the coalition strikes on Mosul, amid the escalating dispute between Baghdad and Ankara about the Turkish presence in Bashiqa.[92] A military offensive to retake the city was the largest deployment of Iraqi forces since the 2003 invasion by U.S. and coalition forces[93] On July 9, 2017, Prime Minister Haider Al-Abadi arrived in preparation to announce the full liberation of Mosul and reclaim the city after three years of ISIL control.[94] A formal declaration was made on the next day.[95]

Ancient Warfare: Assyrian Empire and Macedonian Army 

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VPle6IzDuoU

https://www.realmofhistory.com/2016/02/24/10-fascinating-things-you-should-know-about-the-assyrian-army/

 

Not wanting to fight

Do Not Abandon the Messenger 

[9:118] Also (redeemed were) the three who stayed behind. The spacious earth became so straitened for them, that they almost gave up all hope for themselves. Finally, they realized that there was no escape from GOD, except to Him. He then redeemed them that they may repent. GOD is the Redeemer, Most Merciful.

 

Joseph

God Protects the Believers From Sin 

[12:23] The lady of the house where he lived tried to seduce him. She closed the doors and said, "I am all yours." He said, "May GOD protect me. He is my Lord, who gave me a good home.* The transgressors never succeed." [12:24] She almost succumbed to him, and he almost succumbed to her, if it were not that he saw a proof from his Lord. We thus diverted evil and sin away from him, for he was one of our devoted servants.

• Joseph thrown in the well left for dead
• Joseph sold as a slave
• Joseph framed sent to prison
• Joseph forgets God and stays in prison

Joseph’s Brothers

• Thinking they wanted to get rid of Joseph
• Learn how God favors the righteous
• Joseph save them from famine 

Moses and the Teacher

• Why bore a hole, why kill a boy, why not charge a wage

 

Mary - I wish I was dead and long forgotten

[19:23] The birth process came to her by the trunk of a palm tree. She said, "(I am so ashamed;) I wish I were dead before this happened, and completely forgotten."

Parasites of Doubt

 

Inception

Wasp virus turns ladybugs into zombie babysitters

http://www.sciencemag.org/news/2015/02/wasp-virus-turns-ladybugs-zombie-babysitters

Zombie spider builds a stronger web for the parasitic wasp that's sucking its blood 

 

https://www.theverge.com/2015/8/6/9103979/parasitic-wasp-spiders-zombie-stronger-web  

Satan infects the human with an idea 

• The human believes they came up with the idea 
• The human will foster the idea and the idea will grow
• The human will protect and defend the idea
• And the idea will manifest to action

[17:64] "You may entice them with your voice, and mobilize all your forces and all your men against them, and share in their money and children, and promise them. Anything the devil promises is no more than an illusion.

Satan Hypnotizes His Constituents

[7:179] We have committed to Hell multitudes of jinns and humans. They have minds with which they do not understand, eyes with which they do not see, and ears with which they do not hear. They are like animals; no, they are far worse—they are totally unaware.

Advertisers spend billions (Ben Shapiro - Hollywood)

Darren Brown – How To Get Someone The Perfect Gift

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jTwCMX5sUQU 

When we think we own something we give it more value

• Mug social experiment 

When someone comes up with a business plan they think it is better than it actually is

Satan will infect us with predominately two kinds of ideas 

#1 Ego

#2 Doubt 

There are several things that our faith needs to be unshakeable regarding 

#1 – There is no god beside God

[3:18] GOD bears witness that there is no god except He, and so do the angels and those who possess knowledge. Truthfully and equitably, He is the absolute god; there is no god but He, the Almighty, Most Wise.

 

#2 – There will be a Day of Judgment

[22:7] And that the Hour is coming, no doubt about it, and that GOD resurrects those who are in the graves.

[40:59] Most certainly, the Hour (Day of Judgment) is coming, no doubt about it, but most people do not believe. 

[13:2] GOD is the One who raised the heavens without pillars that you can see, then assumed all authority. He committed the sun and the moon, each running (in its orbit) for a predetermined period. He controls all things, and explains the revelations, that you may attain certainty about meeting your Lord.

 

#3 – God’s word is the absolute truth  

[7:2] This scripture has been revealed to you—you shall not harbor doubt about it in your heart—that you may warn with it, and to provide a reminder for the believers.

[35:40] Say, "Consider the idols you have set up beside GOD; show me what on earth have they created." Do they own any partnership in the heavens? Have we given them a book wherein there is no doubt? Indeed, what the transgressors promise one another is no more than an illusion.

 

It is okay to have doubt with the expectation that we will work to eliminate the doubt 

Abraham 

Every Believer Needs Assurance

[2:260] Abraham said, "My Lord, show me how You revive the dead." He said, "Do you not believe?" He said, "Yes, but I wish to reassure my heart." He said, "Take four birds, study their marks, place a piece of each bird on top of a hill, then call them to you. They will come to you in a hurry. You should know that GOD is Almighty, Most Wise." 

Jesus’s Disciples 

The Feast

[5:112] Recall that the disciples said, "O Jesus, son of Mary, can your Lord send down to us a feast from the sky?" He said, "You should reverence GOD, if you are believers." [5:113] They said, "We wish to eat from it, and to reassure our hearts, and to know for sure that you have told us the truth. We will serve as witnesses thereof."

Greater Miracles Bring Greater Responsibility*

[5:114] Said Jesus, the son of Mary, "Our god, our Lord, send down to us a feast from the sky. Let it bring plenty for each and every one of us, and a sign from You. Provide for us; You are the best Provider." [5:115] GOD said, "I am sending it down. Anyone among you who disbelieves after this, I will punish him as I never punished anyone else."*

Submitters Strive for Certainty

Muslim vs Mu'men

[49:14] The Arabs said, "We are Mu'mens (believers)." Say, "You have not believed; what you should say is, 'We are Muslims (submitters),' until belief is established in your hearts." If you obey GOD and His messenger, He will not put any of your works to waste. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful. [49:15] Mu'mens (believers) are those who believe in GOD and His messenger, then attain the status of having no doubt whatsoever, and strive with their money and their lives in the cause of GOD. These are the truthful ones. [49:16] Say, "Are you informing GOD about your religion? GOD knows everything in the heavens and the earth. GOD is Omniscient." 

[2:118] Those who possess no knowledge say, "If only GOD could speak to us, or some miracle could come to us!" Others before them have uttered similar utterances; their minds are similar. We do manifest the miracles for those who have attained certainty.

[5:50] Is it the law of the days of ignorance that they seek to uphold? Whose law is better than GOD's for those who have attained certainty?

[6:75] We showed Abraham the marvels of the heavens and the earth, and blessed him with certainty: 

What will Satan do to us to cause us to doubt? 

Change the meaning of God’s message

[3:7] He sent down to you this scripture, containing straightforward verses—which constitute the essence of the scripture—as well as multiple-meaning or allegorical verses. Those who harbor doubts in their hearts will pursue the multiple-meaning verses to create confusion, and to extricate a certain meaning. None knows the true meaning thereof except GOD and those well founded in knowledge. They say, "We believe in this—all of it comes from our Lord." Only those who possess intelligence will take heed. 

Example of alcohol and intoxicants

[5:90] O you who believe, intoxicants, and gambling, and the altars of idols, and the games of chance are abominations of the devil; you shall avoid them, that you may succeed. 

[4:43] O you who believe, do not observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) while intoxicated, so that you know what you are saying. Nor after sexual orgasm without bathing, unless you are on the road, traveling; if you are ill or traveling, or you had urinary or fecal-related excretion (such as gas), or contacted the women (sexually), and you cannot find water, you shall observe Tayammum (dry ablution) by touching clean dry soil, then wiping your faces and hands therewith. GOD is Pardoner, Forgiver. 

[4:44] Have you noted those who received a portion of the scripture, and how they choose to stray, and wish that you stray from the path?

Doubt the Day of Judgment - Accountability  

[27:66] In fact, their knowledge concerning the Hereafter is confused. In fact, they harbor doubts about it. In fact, they are totally heedless thereof.

Fear other than God

[5:52] You will see those who harbor doubt in their hearts hasten to join them, saying, "We fear lest we may be defeated." May GOD bring victory, or a command from Him, that causes them to regret their secret thoughts. 

Fear: The Devil's Tool

[3:175] It is the devil's system to instill fear into his subjects. Do not fear them and fear Me instead, if you are believers.

Revert from the religion

The System*

[22:52] We did not send before you any messenger, nor a prophet, without having the devil interfere in his wishes. GOD then nullifies what the devil has done. GOD perfects His revelations. GOD is Omniscient, Most Wise.*

The Hypocrites Drop Out

[22:53] He thus sets up the devil's scheme as a test for those who harbor doubts in their hearts, and those whose hearts are hardened. The wicked must remain with the opposition. [22:54] Those who are blessed with knowledge will recognize the truth from your Lord, then believe in it, and their hearts will readily accept it. Most assuredly, GOD guides the believers in the right path. [22:55] As for those who disbelieve, they will continue to harbor doubts until the Hour comes to them suddenly, or until the retribution of a terrible day comes to them.

[3:154] After the setback, He sent down upon you peaceful slumber that pacified some of you. Others among you were selfishly concerned about themselves. They harbored thoughts about GOD that were not right— the same thoughts they had harbored during the days of ignorance. Thus, they said, "Is anything up to us?" Say, "Everything is up to GOD." They concealed inside themselves what they did not reveal to you. They said, "If it was up to us, none of us would have been killed in this battle." Say, "Had you stayed in your homes, those destined to be killed would have crawled into their death beds." GOD thus puts you to the test to bring out your true convictions, and to test what is in your hearts. GOD is fully aware of the innermost thoughts.

God will bring out our true convictions

[47:29] Did those who harbor doubts in their hearts think that GOD will not bring out their evil thoughts?

How to Overcome Doubt and Find Certainty?

Worship God - Implore God

[15:99] And worship your Lord, in order to attain certainty.*

[2:186] When My servants ask you about Me, I am always near. I answer their prayers when they pray to Me. The people shall respond to Me and believe in Me, in order to be guided. 

Study the Mathematical Miracle

[74:31] We appointed angels to be guardians of Hell, and we assigned their number (19) (1) to disturb the disbelievers, (2) to convince the Christians and Jews (that this is a divine scripture), (3) to strengthen the faith of the faithful, (4) to remove all traces of doubt from the hearts of Christians, Jews, as well as the believers, and (5) to expose those who harbor doubt in their hearts, and the disbelievers; they will say, "What did GOD mean by this allegory?" GOD thus sends astray whomever He wills, and guides whomever He wills. None knows the soldiers of your Lord except He. This is a reminder for the people.

Be Honest With Yourself

You Shall Not Bear False Witness

[4:135] O you who believe, you shall be absolutely equitable, and observe GOD, when you serve as witnesses, even against yourselves, or your parents, or your relatives. Whether the accused is rich or poor, GOD takes care of both. Therefore, do not be biased by your personal wishes. If you deviate or disregard (this commandment), then GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do. 

[4:136] O you who believe, you shall believe in GOD and His messenger, and the scripture He has revealed through His messenger, and the scripture He has revealed before that. Anyone who refuses to believe in GOD, and His angels, and His scriptures, and His messengers, and the Last Day, has indeed strayed far astray.

Be impartial 

[2:143] We thus made you an impartial community, that you may serve as witnesses among the people, and the messenger serves as a witness among you. We changed the direction of your original Qiblah only to distinguish those among you who readily follow the messenger from those who would turn back on their heels. It was a difficult test, but not for those who are guided by GOD. GOD never puts your worship to waste. GOD is Compassionate towards the people, Most Merciful. 

Consult with others - Don’t make excuses – turning your shortcomings into virtues 

[42:38] They respond to their Lord by observing the Contact Prayers (Salat). Their affairs are decided after due consultation among themselves, and from our provisions to them they give (to charity). 

Richard Feynman - The first principle is that you must not fool yourself — and you are the easiest person to fool.

Infinite Blessings

Louis CK | Everything is Awesome

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TviGil-U2HE

[14:34] And He gives you all kinds of things that you implore Him for. If you count GOD's blessings, you can never encompass them. Indeed, the human being is transgressing, unappreciative. 

[16:18] If you count GOD's blessings, you cannot possibly encompass them. GOD is Forgiver, Most Merciful.

If we try to count all the blessings that God has provided us just for a single day there is no way we can wrap our heads around so many 

There are blessings that we can fathom and ones that we cannot even grasp

Site, sound, touch, smell, taste

We think we have only five senses but we have so many more

• being able to feel pain
• being able to feel heat/cold
• being able to tell up from down (vertigo)
• Being able to tell acceleration
• Knowing where your limbs are proprioception
• Being able to sense the passing of time 

But for us this is all normal so we forget 

When you woke up this morning did you thank God when you took your first breath and life was resurrected back into your body

That during night time your body was immobile –

Mike Biglia - Acts out his dreams

Story of a professor whose body will randomly go immobile as if he is sleeping though he is a awake.

When you opened your eyes and you first sensed light and awareness 

Did you know we can see 7 million different colors 

you saw the faces of your loved ones and were able to recognize them

Prosopagnosia– face blindness 

I am talking with you and are you in astonishment in the process that is taking place? 

Your heart beats 115,200 times per day

All day your lungs will be breathing pulling in oxygen and energy to your body

16 hours of your day your eyes will process all the things that you see in the world

your legs will walk thousands of steps

When you went to the fridge and you grabbed breakfast 

• Milk
• Cereal
• Apple
• Eggs

Microwave or stove 

That your stomach and intestines can operate and extract the nutrients you need without any willpower on your part

Maybe you took a shower and in a few seconds you have fresh clean water at the perfect temperature for you 

Then you got into your car where you can adjust the temperature and travel faster than you could ever on your feet without breaking a sweat 

That you live in a world with laws and human rights that you are not fleeing from the lion or tiger struggling to survive 

I am pushing air through my lungs and vibrating this air as it is passing my throat to sounds that are bouncing off the hairs in your ears that is vibrating your ear drums then translating those vibrations to an electrical signal that is being sent and deciphered in your brain to language and a message 

Habituation 

• Can you smell your nose?
• Can you see your nose?
• Can you feel the ground beneath your feet?

We get used to all the infinite blessings that God has given us 

Remember you did nothing to deserve any of these blessings…

We remember God when we lose it... 

Job 38:4-7New Life Version (NLV)

4 Where were you when I began building the earth? Tell Me, if you have understanding. 5 Who decided how big it was to be, since you know? Who looked to see if it was as big as it should be? 6 What was it built upon? Who laid its first stone, 7 when the morning stars sang together and all the sons of God called out for joy? 

Old Man And His Eyes

A man reached 75 years of age and started having problems with his eyes. He could not see. He went to the hospital and he was diagnosed, and the doctors informed him that he was in need of an operation otherwise he would never be able to see again. He agreed to have the operation done as he truly missed being able to see like he used to. When the operation was completed, his doctor gave him the bill which covered all the costs. 

The old man looked at the bill and started to cry. Upon seeing this, the doctor told him that if the cost was too high then they could make some other arrangements. The old man said “I am not crying because of the money but I am crying because God let me see without any problems for 75 years and He never sent me a bill.”

We are more blessed in history than ever before yet we are more miserable

Happiness = expectations - reality 

Set the right expectations you have everything and deserve nothing

• Person at the gym who was recovering from a bone infection

The angels said send them all to Hell 

• Let’s say I give you $1M then take $500k back 
• versus I just give you $500k 

Think of the movie you had low expectations for - 

Why are movies on planes so much better  

Sell your cleverness and buy bewilderment 

• Everything you have is a gift

Be in a state of awe 

Earth is spinning 1000mph

Earth is rotating around the sun at 67,000 mph

Sun is moving at 72,000mph

Milkyway Galaxy is moving through space at 1.3M mph

Earth is 7,915mi diameter

~25mi is the thickness of the earth’s crust 

Equivalent of the skin of an apple compared to the fruit 

Under the 25mi is molten rock - a sea of lava - at 4000 degrees Celcius  

On this thin crust of the earth you put a piece of dead wood into the ground add some water and sunlight and out comes delicious fruits and vegetables 

Have you thought of that out of dirt comes an apple, orange or watermelon 

We have been conditioned that this is all NORMAL

There is nothing normal about this 

Tailwind / Headwind asymmetry

Underestimate how much of your success is luck (God’s blessing)  

Grandma walking with child who gets swept in by water - he was also wearing a hat

[2:61] Recall that you said, "O Moses, we can no longer tolerate one kind of food. Call upon your Lord to produce for us such earthly crops as beans, cucumbers, garlic, lentils, and onions." He said, "Do you wish to substitute that which is inferior for that which is good? Go down to Egypt, where you can find what you asked for." They have incurred condemnation, humiliation, and disgrace, and brought upon themselves wrath from GOD. This is because they rejected GOD's revelations, and killed the prophets unjustly. This is because they disobeyed and transgressed.

How do you use God’s provisions? 

 

Kill Your Ego Save Your Soul

Who is your #1 adversary? 

 

[15:42] "You have no power over My servants. You only have power over the strayers who follow you.

 

Satan Disowns His Followers

[14:22] And the devil will say, after the judgment had been issued, "GOD has promised you the truthful promise, and I promised you, but I broke my promise. I had no power over you; I simply invited you, and you accepted my invitation. Therefore, do not blame me, and blame only yourselves. My complaining cannot help you, nor can your complaining help me. I have disbelieved in your idolizing me. The transgressors have incurred a painful retribution."

 

Introduction - "The horse has no ego. The horse’s owner can be rich or poor, tall or short, fat or thin, young or old, and the horse will serve them all. The dog has no ego; it will wag its tail to its owner, no matter how rich or poor the owner might be. The sun rises and sets every day at precisely the times prescribed by God. The moon follows its synchronized orbit around the earth, without the slightest deviation. The human body—a temporary garment—belongs to the Earth; as such, it is a submitter. The heart, lungs, kidneys, and other organs, perform their functions without our control.”

 

The Ego as a god 

[25:43] Have you seen the one whose god is his own ego? Will you be his advocate? [25:44] Do you think that most of them hear, or understand? They are just like animals; no, they are far worse.

 

[7:20] The devil whispered to them, in order to reveal their bodies, which were invisible to them. He said, "Your Lord did not forbid you from this tree, except to prevent you from becoming angels, and from attaining eternal existence." [7:21] He swore to them, "I am giving you good advice." [7:22] He thus duped them with lies. As soon as they tasted the tree, their bodies became visible to them, and they tried to cover themselves with the leaves of Paradise. Their Lord called upon them: "Did I not enjoin you from that tree, and warn you that the devil is your most ardent enemy?”

 

A dog has no sense of nakedness

 

What is ego?  Ego Deconstructed

 

Pride: a feeling that you are better or more important than other people

Arrogance: behavior that shows that you think you are better or more important than other people

Ignorance: lack of knowledge or information. 

 

Common Form of Idolatry: The Ego As A god 

[45:23] Have you noted the one whose god is his ego? Consequently, GOD sends him astray, despite his knowledge, seals his hearing and his mind, and places a veil on his eyes. Who then can guide him, after such a decision by GOD? Would you not take heed? 

 

It is hard to see when my eyes are on me

 

Isaiah 14:12 - 14

12“How you have fallen from heaven, O star of the morning, son of the dawn! You have been cut down to the earth, You who have weakened the nations! 13 “But you said in your heart, ‘I will ascend to heaven; I will raise my throne above the stars of God, And I will sit on the mount of assembly In the recesses of the north. 14 ‘I will ascend above the heights of the clouds; I will make myself like the Most High.’

 

When you notice one of your organs then there is probably a problem with it. When it is healthy you don’t notice it. Similary when you notice yourself at the expense of others then there is probably a problem with it.

 

Signs of Ego

 

I am better than he 

 

The Test Begins 

[7:12] He said, "What prevented you from prostrating when I ordered you?" He said, "I am better than he; You created me from fire, and created him from mud." [7:13] He said, "Therefore, you must go down, for you are not to be arrogant here. Get out; you are debased."

 

The First Murder* 

[5:27] Recite for them the true history of Adam's two sons. They made an offering, and it was accepted from one of them, but not from the other. He said, "I will surely kill you." He said, "GOD accepts only from the righteous. [5:28] "If you extend your hand to kill me, I am not extending my hand to kill you. For I reverence GOD, Lord of the universe. [5:29] "I want you, not me, to bear my sin and your sin, then you end up with the dwellers of Hell. Such is the requital for the transgressors." [5:30] Hisegoprovoked him into killing his brother. He killed him, and ended up with the losers.

 

[12:76] He then started by inspecting their containers, before getting to his brother's container, and he extracted it out of his brother's container. We thus perfected the scheme for Joseph; he could not have kept his brother if he applied the king's law. But that was the will of GOD. We exalt whomever we choose to higher ranks. Above every knowledgeable one, there is one who is even more knowledgeable.

 

Divine Revelation: The Source of All Knowledge 

[17:85] They ask you about the revelation. Say, "The revelation comes from my Lord. The knowledge given to you is minute." [17:86] If we will, we can take back what we revealed to you, then you will find no protector against us.

 

Joseph was a slave and a prisoner by role but not by spirit 

 

Never think you are too good to do something 

 

John Boyd - to be or to do?

 

Exalting One’s Self

[4:49] Have you noted those who exalt themselves? Instead, GOD is the One who exalts whomever He wills, without the least injustice.

 

[53:32] They avoid gross sins and transgressions, except for minor offenses. Your Lord's forgiveness is immense. He has been fully aware of you since He initiated you from the earth, and while you were embryos in your mothers' bellies. Therefore, do not exalt yourselves; He is fully aware of the righteous.

 

All Dignity Comes From God

[35:10] Anyone seeking dignity should know that to GOD belongs all dignity. To Him ascends the good words, and He exalts the righteous works. As for those who scheme evil works, they incur severe retribution; the scheming of such people is destined to fail.

 

[3:26] Say, "Our god: possessor of all sovereignty. You grant sovereignty to whomever You choose, You remove sovereignty from whomever You choose. You grant dignity to whomever You choose, and commit to humiliation whomever You choose.In Your hand are all provisions. You are Omnipotent.

 

The Only Criterion For Distinguishing Among The People 

[49:13] O people, we created you from the same male and female, and rendered you distinct peoples and tribes, that you may recognize one another. The best among you in the sight of GOD is the most righteous. GOD is Omniscient, Cognizant. 

 

 

Putting your opinion above that of God’s - Arrogance

 

[2:34] When we said to the angels, "Fall prostrate before Adam," they fell prostrate, except Satan; he refused, was too arrogant, and a disbeliever.

 

[2:54] Recall that Moses said to his people, "O my people, you have wronged your souls by worshiping the calf. You must repent to your Creator. You shall kill your egos. This is better for you in the sight of your Creator." He did redeem you. He is the Redeemer, Most Merciful.

 

[2:87] We gave Moses the scripture, and subsequent to him we sent other messengers, and we gave Jesus, son of Mary, profound miracles and supported him with the Holy Spirit. Is it not a fact that every time a messenger went to you with anything you disliked, your ego caused you to be arrogant? Some of them you rejected, and some of them you killed.

 

[40:35] They argue against GOD's revelations, without any basis. This is a trait that is most abhorred by GOD and by those who believe. GOD thus seals the hearts of every arrogant tyrant.

 

[38:26] O David, we have made you a ruler on earth. Therefore, you shall judge among the people equitably, and do not follow your personal opinion, lest it diverts you from the way of GOD. Surely, those who stray off the way of GOD incur severe retribution for forgetting the Day of Reckoning.

 

[40:56] Surely, those who argue against GOD's revelations without proof are exposing the arrogance that is hidden inside their chests, and they are not even aware of it. Therefore, seek refuge in GOD; He is the Hearer, the Seer.

 

 

Self Justification - Excusing our own bad behavior - Not taking responsibility for our own outcomes or Blaming Others

 

[47:14] Are those enlightened by their Lord the same as those whose evil works are adorned in their eyes, and they follow their own opinions?

 

Satan blames God 

[7:16] He said, "Since You have willed that I go astray,* I will skulk for them on Your straight path.

 

One of the names of the Day of Judgement is the Day of Mutual Blaming 

 

Own your decisions

 

[12:53] "I do not claim innocence for myself. The self is an advocate of vice, except for those who have attained mercy from my Lord. My Lord is Forgiver, Most Merciful.”

 

Don’t make your shortcomings into virtues - I am not lazy I am patient 

 

[4:135] O you who believe, you shall be absolutely equitable, and observe GOD, when you serve as witnesses, even against yourselves, or your parents, or your relatives. Whether the accused is rich or poor, GOD takes care of both. Therefore, do not be biased by your personal wishes. If you deviate or disregard (this commandment), then GOD is fully Cognizant of everything you do.

 

 

Believing you have power independent of God - Believing that you can harm or benefit yourself  

 

[5:76] Say, "Would you worship beside GOD powerless idols who can neither harm you, nor benefit you? GOD is Hearer, Omniscient.”

 

[25:3] Yet, they set up beside Him gods who do not create anything—they themselves are created—and who possess no power to even harm or benefit themselves, nor do they possess any power to control life, or death, or resurrection.

 

[7:188] Say, "I have no power to benefit myself, or harm myself. Only what GOD wills happens to me. If I knew the future, I would have increased my wealth, and no harm would have afflicted me. I am no more than a warner, and a bearer of good news for those who believe."

 

Property as an Idol* 

[18:32] Cite for them the example of two men: we gave one of them two gardens of grapes, surrounded by date palms, and placed other crops between them. Footnote [18:33] Both gardens produced their crops on time, and generously, for we caused a river to run through them. [18:34] Once, after harvesting, he boastfully told his friend: "I am far more prosperous than you, and I command more respect from the people." [18:35] When he entered his garden, he wronged his soul by saying, "I do not think that this will ever end. [18:36] "Moreover, I think this is it; I do not think that the Hour (the Hereafter) will ever come to pass. Even if I am returned to my Lord, I will (be clever enough to) possess an even better one over there." [18:37] His friend said to him, as he debated with him, "Have you disbelieved in the One who created you from dust, then from a tiny drop, then perfected you into a man? [18:38] "As for me, GOD is my Lord, and I will never set up any other god besides my Lord. Important Commandment [18:39] "When you entered your garden, you should have said, 'This is what GOD has given me (Mã Shã Allãh). No one possesses power except GOD (Lã Quwwata Ellã Bellãh).' You may see that I possess less money and less children than you. [18:40] "My Lord may grant me better than your garden. He may send a violent storm from the sky that wipes out your garden, leaving it completely barren. [18:41] "Or, its water may sink deeper, out of your reach." [18:42] Indeed, his crops were wiped out, and he ended up sorrowful, lamenting what he had spent on it in vain, as his property lay barren. He finally said, "I wish I never set up my property as a god beside my Lord.”

 

How to Kill Your Ego?

 

How can I serve?

Satan didn’t want to serve

 

How can I serve becomes more important than what I am going to get

serve God = Righteousness

serve man = vanity

 

[28:77] "Use the provisions bestowed upon you by GOD to seek the abode of the Hereafter, without neglecting your share in this world. Be charitable, as GOD has been charitable towards you. Do not keep on corrupting the earth. GOD does not love the corruptors.”

 

[59:9] As for those who provided them with a home and a refuge, and were believers before them, they love those who immigrated to them, and find no hesitation in their hearts in helping them. In fact, they readily give them priority over themselves, even when they themselves need what they give away. Indeed, those who overcome their natural stinginess are the successful ones.

Be Grateful for the Intelligent Design of Your Eyes

Be Grateful for the Intelligent Design of Your Eyes

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=kboUBQnMP8w

True Belief vs. Lip Service

If you have any comments, questions or suggestions for future topics send us an email: qurantalk@gmail.com

 

*************************************

The Story of Blondin

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=9H-yrfmqmGc

https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Charles_Blondin

I thought that was a great story to start the podcast with as I wanted to talk about what it means to believe in God. 

A gallop poll last year found that 89% of American say they believe in God, but what does that truly mean? 

To believe in the mere existence of God does not mean anything if you do not know, understand or believe who God is.

When we truly believe something our actions should correspond with our beliefs 

In the story of Blondin despite the people witnessing him successfully walking 1100 feet across and 160 feet above Niagara falls numerous times and saying they believed with their lips showed they really didn’t believe because of their actions by not willing to get inside the wheelbarrow 

If we truly believe in God then our actions will correspond with our supposed belief

Knowing God

Knowing God’s qualities and most importantly that God is doing everything

God is doing everything  

What does that mean: God is doing everything 

[10:61] You do not get into any situation, nor do you recite any Quran, nor do you do anything, without us being witnesses thereof as you do it. Not even an atom's weight is out of your Lord's control, be it in the heavens or the earth. Nor is there anything smaller than an atom, or larger, that is not recorded in a profound record.

How would you behave if you truly believed God is doing everything?

• Would you have any fear?
• Would you ever worry?
• Would you ever get angry or get frustrated?

The Battle of the Parties (33:9 – 33:20)

O you who believe, remember GOD's blessing upon you; when soldiers attacked you, we sent upon them violent wind and invisible soldiers. GOD is Seer of everything you do.  When they came from above you, and from beneath you, your eyes were terrified, your hearts ran out of patience, and you harbored unbefitting thoughts about GOD. [33:11] That is when the believers were truly tested; they were severely shaken up. [33:12] The hypocrites and those with doubts in their hearts said, "What GOD and His messenger promised us was no more than an illusion!" [33:13] A group of them said, "O people of Yathrib, you cannot attain victory; go back." Others made up excuses to the prophet: "Our homes are vulnerable," when they were not vulnerable. They just wanted to flee. [33:14] Had the enemy invaded and asked them to join, they would have joined the enemy without hesitation. [33:15] They had pledged to GOD in the past that they would not turn around and flee; making a pledge with GOD involves a great responsibility. Say, "If you flee, you can never flee from death or from being killed. No matter what happens, you only live a short while longer."  Say, "Who would protect you from GOD if He willed any adversity, or willed any blessing for you?" They can never find, beside GOD, any other Lord and Master. [33:18] GOD is fully aware of the hinderers among you, and those who say to their comrades, "Let us all stay behind." Rarely do they mobilize for defense. [33:19] Also, they are too stingy when dealing with you. If anything threatens the community, you see their eyes rolling with fear, as if death had already come to them. Once the crisis is over, they whip you with sharp tongues. They are too stingy with their wealth. These are not believers, and, consequently, GOD has nullified their works. This is easy for GOD to do. [33:20] They thought that the parties might come back. In that case, they would wish that they were lost in the desert, asking about your news from afar. Had the parties attacked you while they were with you, they would rarely support you.

[33:21] The messenger of GOD has set up a good example for those among you who seek GOD and the Last Day, and constantly think about GOD. Footnote [33:22] When the true believers saw the parties (ready to attack), they said, "This is what GOD and His messenger have promised us, and GOD and His messenger are truthful." This (dangerous situation) only strengthened their faith and augmented their submission.

If we truly believe this then we would never fear anything besides God.

To fear anything besides God is to give power to another entity independent of God.

Fear: The Devil's Tool

[3:175] It is the devil's system to instill fear into his subjects. Do not fear them and fear Me instead, if you are believers.

The start of wisdom begins with fearing God?       

To believe anything besides God can harm or benefit you is tantamount to idol worship.

[5:76] Say, "Would you worship beside GOD powerless idols who can neither harm you, nor benefit you? GOD is Hearer, Omniscient." 

[10:106] "You shall not worship beside GOD what possesses no power to benefit you or harm you. If you do, you will be a transgressor." 

As mentioned in the previous podcast by harm is the absence of God, such that when we knowingly commit sin we are distancing ourselves from our creator

Even the messengers could not harm or benefit themselves:

[10:49] Say, "I possess no power to harm myself, or benefit myself; only what GOD wills takes place." Each community has a predetermined life span. Once their interim comes to an end, they cannot delay it by one hour, nor advance it.

God controls life and death

Time of Death Predetermined

[3:145] No one dies except by GOD's leave, at a predetermined time. Whoever seeks the vanities of this world, we give him therefrom, and whoever seeks the rewards of the Hereafter, we bless him therein. We reward those who are appreciative. 

Moment of Death Predetermined

[3:154] After the setback, He sent down upon you peaceful slumber that pacified some of you. Others among you were selfishly concerned about themselves. They harbored thoughts about GOD that were not right— the same thoughts they had harbored during the days of ignorance. Thus, they said, "Is anything up to us?" Say, "Everything is up to GOD." They concealed inside themselves what they did not reveal to you. They said, "If it was up to us, none of us would have been killed in this battle." Say, "Had you stayed in your homes, those destined to be killed would have crawled into their death beds." GOD thus puts you to the test to bring out your true convictions, and to test what is in your hearts. GOD is fully aware of the innermost thoughts. 

This doesn’t happen overnight it takes time – from a weak believer to a strong believer

Story of Moses – from my tongue gets tied to No way

Moses

[26:10] Recall that your Lord called Moses: "Go to the transgressing people. [26:11] "Pharaoh's people; perhaps they reform." [26:12] He said, "My Lord, I fear lest they disbelieve me. [26:13] "I may lose my temper. My tongue gets tied; send for my brother Aaron. [26:14] "Also, they consider me a fugitive; I fear lest they kill me." [26:15] He said, "No, (they will not). Go with My proofs. We will be with you, listening. [26:16] "Go to Pharaoh and say, 'We are messengers from the Lord of the universe. [26:17] "'Let the Children of Israel go.'"

[26:60] They pursued them towards the east. [26:61] When both parties saw each other, Moses' people said, "We will be caught." [26:62] He said, "No way. My Lord is with me; He will guide me." [26:63] We then inspired Moses: "Strike the sea with your staff," whereupon it parted. Each part was like a great hill. [26:64] We then delivered them all. [26:65] We thus saved Moses and all those who were with him. [26:66] And we drowned the others. [26:67] This should be a sufficient proof, but most people are not believers. [26:68] Most assuredly, your Lord is the Almighty, Most Merciful.

If we truly believe in God would we ever get angry?

Wayne Dyer example of an orange

[3:134] who give to charity during the good times, as well as the bad times. They are suppressors of anger, and pardoners of the people. GOD loves the charitable.

[42:37] They avoid gross sins and vice, and when angered they forgive.

[21:37] The human being is impatient by nature. I will inevitably show you My signs; do not be in such a hurry.

[17:11] The human being often prays for something that may hurt him, thinking that he is praying for something good. The human being is impatient. [17:12] We rendered the night and the day two signs. We made the night dark, and the day lighted, that you may seek provisions from your Lord therein. This also establishes for you a timing system, and the means of calculation. We thus explain everything in detail.

If we truly believe that God is doing everything would we ever be worried about not having enough…money, clothes, cars, homes, etc.  

6 days of creation 

[41:9] Say, "You disbelieve in the One who created the earth in two days,* and you set up idols to rank with Him, though He is Lord of the universe." [41:10] He placed on it stabilizers (mountains), made it productive, and He calculated its provisions in four days, to satisfy the needs of all its inhabitants. 

So the calculating of the exact provisions of every creature was twice as complex as the physical creation of the heavens and the earth and all the physical laws

God controls all provisions – from even before the creation -                        

[34:36] Say, "My Lord is the One who controls all provisions; He grants the provisions to whomever He wills, or reduces them, but most people do not know." 

[34:39] Say, "My Lord is the One who controls all provisions; He increases the provisions for whomever He chooses from among His servants, or reduces them. Anything you spend (in the cause of God), He will reward you for it; He is the Best Provider."

Everything is already written down and works in accordance with the will of God

[57:22] Anything that happens on earth, or to you, has already been recorded, even before the creation. This is easy for GOD to do.

[16:1] GOD's command has already been issued (and everything has already been written), so do not rush it.* Be He glorified; the Most High, far above any idols they set up. 

God gives us the opportunity to earn credit  

[36:47] When they are told, "Give from GOD's provisions to you," those who disbelieve say to those who believe, "Why should we give to those whom GOD could feed, if He so willed? You are really far astray."

When we think it is us doing good we are feeding our ego – when we remember that God is the one who is allowing us to do good then it is feeding our soul 

[76:9] "We feed you for the sake of GOD; we expect no reward from you, nor thanks.

If you truly believe in God how excited would you be to have God’s word to mankind via the Quran?

People win a new car and they lose their mind. God just offered us something that is more valuable than an earthful of gold. How appreciative are we?

What Price Faith

[10:54] If any wicked soul possessed everything on earth, it would readily offer it as ransom.  

[3:91] Those who disbelieve and die as disbelievers, an earthful of gold will not be accepted from any of them, even if such a ransom were possible. They have incurred painful retribution; they will have no helpers.

What do you get from God’s word and following God’s recommendations?

[10:55] Absolutely, to GOD belongs everything in the heavens and the earth. Absolutely, GOD's promise is truth, but most of them do not know. [10:56] He controls life and death, and to Him you will be returned. [10:57] O people, enlightenment has come to you herein from your Lord, and healing for anything that troubles your hearts, and guidance, and mercy for the believers.

Joy for the Believers

[10:58] Say, "With GOD's grace and with His mercy they shall rejoice." This is far better than any wealth they can accumulate.

Happiness: Now and Forever*

[10:62] Absolutely, GOD's allies have nothing to fear, nor will they grieve. [10:63] They are those who believe and lead a righteous life. [10:64] For them, joy and happiness in this world, as well as in the Hereafter. This is GOD's unchangeable law. Such is the greatest triumph.

Joy and happiness without fear or grief from now to all of eternity – sounds pretty nice 

If you believe in God would you hesitate one second to implement God’s recommendations in your day to day life? 

So what is your priority?

[53:24] What is it that the human being desires? [53:25] To GOD belongs both the Hereafter, and this world.

Choose Your Priorities Carefully This Life

[17:18] Anyone who chooses this fleeting life as his priority, we will rush to him what we decide to give him, then we commit him to Gehenna, where he suffers forever, despised and defeated.  

Re-arrange Your Priorities

[29:64] This worldly life is no more than vanity and play, while the abode of the Hereafter is the real life, if they only knew. [29:65] When they ride on a ship, they implore GOD, devoting their prayers to Him. But as soon as He saves them to the shore, they revert to idolatry.

Preoccupation With the Wrong Life

[30:6] Such is GOD's promise—and GOD never breaks His promise—but most people do not know. [30:7] They care only about things of this world that are visible to them, while being totally oblivious to the Hereafter.

[35:5] O people, GOD's promise is the truth; therefore, do not be distracted by this lowly life. Do not be diverted from GOD by mere illusions.

Preoccupation With This Life Condemned

[57:20] Know that this worldly life is no more than play and games, and boasting among you, and hoarding of money and children. It is like abundant rain that produces plants and pleases the disbelievers. But then the plants turn into useless hay, and are blown away by the wind. In the Hereafter there is either severe retribution, or forgiveness from GOD and approval. This worldly life is no more than a temporary illusion.

The Intelligent Alternative

[57:21] Therefore, you shall race towards forgiveness from your Lord, and a Paradise whose width encompasses the heaven and the earth. It awaits those who believed in GOD and His messengers. Such is GOD's grace that He bestows upon whomever He wills. GOD is Possessor of Infinite Grace.

Rearranging Our Priorities

[6:32] The life of this world is no more than illusion and vanity, while the abode of the Hereafter is far better for the righteous. Do you not understand?!

Remember God’s blessings that we may succeed

[7:69] "Is it too much of a wonder that a message should come to you from your Lord, through a man like you, to warn you? Recall that He made you inheritors after the people of Noah, and multiplied your number. Remember GOD's blessings, that you may succeed.”

 

Matthew 6:19 - 33

¹⁹ “Do not store up for yourselves treasures on earth, where moth and rust destroy, and where thieves break in and steal. ²⁰ But store up for yourselves treasures in heaven, where neither moth nor rust destroys, and where thieves do not break in or steal; ²¹ for where your treasure is, there your heart will be also. ²² “The eye is the lamp of the body; so then if your eye is ^[k]clear, your whole body will be full of light. ²³ But if your eye is ^[l]bad, your whole body will be full of darkness. If then the light that is in you is darkness, how great is the darkness! ²⁴ “No one can serve two masters; for either he will hate the one and love the other, or he will be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve God and ^[m]wealth. ²⁵ “For this reason I say to you, ^[n]do not be worried about your ^[o]life, as to what you will eat or what you will drink; nor for your body, as to what you will put on. Is not life more than food, and the body more than clothing? ²⁶ Look at the birds of the ^[p]air, that they do not sow, nor reap nor gather into barns, and yet your heavenly Father feeds them. Are you not worth much more than they?  ²⁷ And who of you by being worried can add a single ^[q]hour to his ^[r]life? ²⁸ And why are you worried about clothing? Observe how the lilies of the field grow; they do not toil nor do they spin, ²⁹ yet I say to you that not even Solomon in all his glory clothed himself like one of these. ³⁰ But if God so clothes the grass of the field, which is alive today and tomorrow is thrown into the furnace, will He not much more clothe you? You of little faith!  ³¹ Do not worry then, saying, ‘What will we eat?’ or ‘What will we drink?’ or ‘What will we wear for clothing?’ ³² For the Gentiles eagerly seek all these things; for your heavenly Father knows that you need all these things.³³ But ^[s]seek first ^[t]His kingdom and His righteousness, and all these things will be ^[u]added to you.

 

Why Would God Send Anyone to Hell?

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Why Would God Send Anyone to Hell?

What is hell?

• Hell is the absence of God
• Evil is the absence of goodness
• Darkness is the absence of light
• Cold is the absence of heat

Hell is the absence of God 

God does not send anyone to Hell

On the contrary, people insist on going to Hell.  

The people who do not develop and nurture their souls we will not be able to physically withstand the presence of God . And on the Day of Judgment, they will flee further away from God.

[69:13] When the horn is blown once. [69:14] The earth and the mountains will be carried off and crushed; utterly crushed. [69:15] That is the day when the inevitable event will come to pass. [69:16] The heaven will crack, and fall apart. [69:17] The angels will be all around, and Your Lord's dominion will then encompass eight (universes).[69:18] On that day, you will be exposed, nothing of you can be hidden.

*69:17 This earth is full of misery because of its physical distance from God, since it is in the seventh universe (7:143). In the Hereafter, an eighth universe will be created that will be even farther than our seventh universe; it will be called "Hell" (89:23).

[89:21] Indeed, when the earth is crushed, utterly crushed. [89:22] And your Lord comes, together with the angels in row after row. [89:23] On that day, Gehenna will be brought forth. On that day, the human being will remember—but what a remembrance—it will be too late. [89:24] He will say, "Oh, I wish I prepared for my (eternal) life." 

God gives people the freedom to choose to be in God’s kingdom or not 

[19:75] Say, "Those who choose to go astray, the Most Gracious will lead them on, until they see what is promised for them—either the retribution or the Hour. That is when they find out who really is worse off, and weaker in power."  

[19:76] GOD augments the guidance of those who choose to be guided. For the good deeds are eternally rewarded by your Lord, and bring far better returns. 

Why would anyone choose to be in hell? 

Absolute Freedom of Religion

[18:29] Proclaim: "This is the truth from your Lord," then whoever wills let him believe, and whoever wills let him disbelieve. We have prepared for the transgressors a fire that will completely surround them. When they scream for help, they will be given a liquid like concentrated acid that scalds the faces. What a miserable drink! What a miserable destiny!

How Terrible is Hell!*

[22:19] Here are two parties feuding with regard to their Lord. As for those who disbelieve, they will have clothes of fire tailored for them. Hellish liquid will be poured on top of their heads. [22:20] It will cause their insides to melt, as well as their skins. [22:21] They will be confined in iron pots. [22:22] Whenever they try to exit such misery, they will be forced back in: "Taste the agony of burning."

*22:19-22 People who have insisted upon going to Hell will inevitably complain: 'Had we known how bad this is, we would have behaved differently.' They will be told that the horrors of Hell have been pointed out to them in the most graphic, though symbolic, terms. It should be noted that Heaven and Hell are almost invariably mentioned together in the Quran.

[78:21] Gehenna is inevitable. [78:22] For the transgressors; it will be their abode. [78:23] They stay in it for ages. [78:24] They never taste in it coolness, nor a drink. [78:25] Only an inferno, and bitter food.

[38:55] As for the transgressors, they have incurred a miserable destiny. [38:56] Hell is where they burn; what a miserable abode! [38:57] What they taste therein will be hellish drinks and bitter food.

• Example of Adam and Eve

Humans Fail to Make a Firm Stand*

[20:115] We tested Adam in the past, but he forgot, and we found him indecisive.

[20:116] Recall that we said to the angels, "Fall prostrate before Adam." They fell prostrate, except Satan; he refused.

[20:117] We then said, "O Adam, this is an enemy of you and your wife. Do not let him evict you from Paradise, lest you become miserable.

[20:118] "You are guaranteed never to hunger therein, nor go unsheltered. [20:119] "Nor will you thirst therein, nor suffer from any heat."

[20:120] But the devil whispered to him, saying, "O Adam, let me show you the tree of eternity and unending kingship."

[20:121] They ate from it, whereupon their bodies became visible to them, and they tried to cover themselves with the leaves of Paradise. Adam thus disobeyed his Lord, and fell.

[20:122] Subsequently, his Lord chose him, redeemed him, and guided him.

[20:123] He said, "Go down therefrom, all of you. You are enemies of one another. When guidance comes to you from Me, anyone who follows My guidance will not go astray, nor suffer any misery.

Metaphor of a doctor – type 2 diabetes

• Choose to make bad life choices – eat excess amounts of unhealthy food, lack of exercise
• Your body will not only stop producing insulin, but you will have to start giving yourselves frequent injections
• heart, brain and legs complications
• You can lose your libido
• You can damage your kidneys or vision
• You may have to amputate your feet

We don’t blame the doctor for telling us these things… 

Doctor’s tell us these things because no one else has the courage to tell their loved ones these tough realities 

[2:26] GOD does not shy away from citing any kind of allegory,* from the tiny mosquito and greater. As for those who believe, they know that it is the truth from their Lord. As for those who disbelieve, they say, "What did GOD mean by such an allegory?" He misleads many thereby, and guides many thereby. But He never misleads thereby except the wicked,

Just like a doctor who warns their patients the consequence of their bad choices, God warns the humans the consequence of neglecting their souls.

[9:115] GOD does not send any people astray, after He had guided them, without first pointing out for them what to expect. GOD is fully aware of all things.

[74:32] Absolutely, (I swear) by the moon. [74:33] And the night as it passes. [74:34] And the morning as it shines. [74:35] This is one of the great miracles.* [74:36] A warning to the human race.

Ostrich Effect

• People prefer to hear good news rather than bad news
• People check their portfolios less often when it is doing bad
• People less willing to see their test scores if they think they underperformed

God Doesn’t Need Our Prayers – It is for our own good

• We came from God and we need Him for our souls survival
• When we worship God we are connecting back to our source to what gives us life
  • That is why we call the Salat the Contact Prayer

 The Purpose of Our Existence

[51:56] I did not create the jinns and the humans except to worship Me alone. [51:57] I need no provisions from them, nor do I need them to feed Me.

Believe For Your Own Good

[39:7] If you disbelieve, GOD does not need anyone. But He dislikes to see His servants make the wrong decision. If you decide to be appreciative, He is pleased for you. No soul bears the sins of any other soul. Ultimately, to your Lord is your return, then He will inform you of everything you had done. He is fully aware of the innermost thoughts.

[40:66] Say, "I have been enjoined from worshiping the idols you worship beside GOD, when the clear revelations came to me from my Lord. I was commanded to submit to the Lord of the universe."*