The Quranic verse that best defines my faith is the one where God rhetorically asks, “Did you really think that we created you in vain and that you would not return to Us?” (23:115).
"أَفَحَسِبْتُمْ أَنَّمَا خَلَقْنَاكُمْ عَبَثًا وَأَنَّكُمْ إِلَيْنَا لَا تُرْجَعُونَ"
This verse epitomizes my faith as a Muslim. It underscores the transience of this world, a fundamental belief to Muslims, and reminds me of my ultimate return to my Creator. It is only my cognizance of this ultimate return to God that gives my life on earth any meaning or purpose. For the journey of a sojourner who is unaware of his/her destination is pointless and irrelevant. That person will take one detour after another and never know whether or not he is any closer to his ultimate destination.
Similarly, the purpose of life can only be comprehended within a framework that establishes the afterlife as its benchmark. For only when we understand that we will return to God, can we ever understand why we are alive. Because the concept of a rebirth or return to God implies consequence; it implies human accountability.
As a Muslim, the essence of my religion is moral accountability. I recognize that by virtue of being alive, I have a duty and moral obligation to God and to humanity at large. I realize that I cannot justify the time I spend on this earth unless I contribute to it in a meaningful way, unless I attempt to create change, unless I leave behind something that makes this world better than I found it. My faith compels me to alleviate grievances, to eliminate injustices, and to do the right thing whether or not it is in my personal interest.
The Qur'an describes the faithful as “Those who feed the needy, orphans and captives - no matter how great their own want of it [the food], [and they say] We feed you for the sake of God alone: we desire neither recompense nor thanks from you. Behold, we stand in awe of our Sustainer's judgment on a distressful, fateful Day!'” (76:8-10). It is this sense of social conscience that has distinguished Islam throughout its history. Islam’s civilizational legacy without doubt has been its unconditional concern for the welfare of humanity.
To me, this verse reflects the reason for which I live my life – to meet God with a sound heart.
As Abraham prayed, “(O Lord), do not disgrace me on the day when souls are raised from the dead, the day when neither wealth nor children will be of any use. Only the one who comes to God with a sound heart (will prosper on that day)” (26:87-89).
Please e-mail On Faith if you'd like to receive an email notification when On Faith sends out a new question.
Email Me | Del.icio.us | Digg | Facebook
