WEEK 7 : PRESENTATION PT 2

                                                                              بِسْـــــــــمِ اَللّهِ الرّحْمن الرّحيم

Group 2: Belief in Angels (Malaikah)

  • Belief in angels is a fundamental aspect of Islamic faith, reflecting the acknowledgment of Allah’s divine system and His unseen creations. The angels, or Malaikah, are tasked with specific roles and serve as instruments of Allah’s will in the universe.

Key Roles of Angels

  1. Jibril (Gabriel):
    Known as the Angel of Revelation, Jibril is responsible for conveying Allah’s messages to the prophets. His role as a divine messenger emphasizes the significance of communication between Allah and His chosen servants.

  2. Mikail (Michael):
    Mikail oversees the distribution of rain and sustenance, ensuring the nourishment of all living beings on earth.

  3. Israfil:
    Israfil will blow the trumpet to signal the Day of Judgment, marking the end of the world and the resurrection of all beings.

  4. Raqib and Atid:
    These angels record every individual’s deeds:

    • Raqib documents good deeds.
    • Atid records bad deeds.
      This reinforces the concept of accountability in Islam.

Significance of Belief in Angels

  1. A Core Obligation:
    Believing in angels is a required tenet of faith for every Muslim, as outlined in the six pillars of Iman.

  2. Affirmation of Faith:
    Acknowledging angels strengthens one’s belief in Allah’s divine system and the unseen realities of existence.

  3. Source of Comfort:
    The knowledge that angels protect, record, and carry out Allah’s commands brings hope and reassurance to believers.

  4. Part of Allah’s Divine System:
    Angels symbolize the perfection and order of Allah’s creation, serving as His obedient servants without deviation.

Jibril’s Role in the Quranic Revelation

  1. Setting:
    Jibril’s encounter with Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) began in the Cave of Hira, where the Prophet often meditated.

  2. The Encounter:
    During the month of Ramadan, Jibril appeared to the Prophet, initiating the divine connection between Allah and His final messenger.

  3. The Command:
    Jibril’s command, “Iqra” (Read), marked the start of the Quranic revelation.

  4. The Revelation:
    The first verses of Surah Al-Alaq were revealed during this monumental event, establishing the foundation of Islam.

Characteristics of Angels

  1. Created from Light:
    Angels are made from light, distinguishing them from humans and other creations.

  2. Lack of Free Will:
    Unlike humans, angels do not possess free will. They are entirely obedient to Allah’s commands.

  3. Physical Traits:
    Angels do not require food, drink, or rest, signifying their non-material existence and unending devotion to Allah.

  4. Strength and Power:
    Angels possess immense strength, enabling them to fulfill their divine duties.

  5. Not Human:
    Angels are distinct from humans in nature, abilities, and purpose, existing solely to serve Allah’s will.

Quranic and Hadith Evidence

  • The Quran affirms the existence and roles of angels, such as in Surah At-Tahrim (66:6), which describes angels as “stern and severe, who do not disobey Allah in what He commands them and do what they are commanded.”
Belief in angels deepens one’s faith and understanding of Allah’s divine system, reminding Muslims of the unseen forces that carry out His will and maintain the order of the universe.



Group 4: Adab and Its Interrelationship with Iman

  • Adab (proper conduct) and Iman (faith) are closely intertwined in Islam. Adab reflects one’s inner faith through outward behavior, while Iman shapes and strengthens one’s character and ethical practices. Together, they guide Muslims to lead a righteous and meaningful life.

1. Strengthening Faith

  • Adab is essential in reinforcing Iman, as it reflects a deep acknowledgment of Allah’s presence in one’s life. Practicing proper adab, such as humility, patience, and respect, mirrors the strength of one’s belief. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) stated, “The best among you are those who have the best manners and character” (Hadith). Through good conduct, one’s faith becomes evident and impactful.

2. Holding Firm to the Quran

  • The Quran is a divine revelation encompassing guidance on all aspects of life. By adhering to its teachings and embodying its principles, Muslims exhibit adab and reinforce their connection to Allah. Its messages inspire ethical behavior, instill wisdom, and encourage reflection on life’s broader purpose.

3. Understanding Human Creation

  • Acknowledging the meaning and purpose of human creation enhances one’s consciousness of Allah. Recognizing that humans are created to worship Allah (Surah Adh-Dhariyat 51:56) encourages gratitude and humility. This understanding motivates Muslims to align their conduct with their faith.

4. Reflecting on the Universe

  • The Quran calls for reflection on the natural world as a sign of Allah’s power and wisdom. Surah Ali Imran (3:191) states, “Those who remember Allah while standing, sitting, and lying on their sides and reflect on the creation of the heavens and the earth...” Such reflection strengthens Iman and inspires awe, gratitude, and humility, which manifest through adab.

5. Understanding Asma’ul Husna

  • The beautiful names of Allah (Asma’ul Husna) describe His perfect attributes, such as mercy, justice, and wisdom. By embodying these attributes in their own lives—like being merciful, just, and wise—Muslims align their adab with divine qualities and strengthen their Iman.

6. Recognizing the Signs of Qiyamah (Day of Judgment)

  • Awareness of the signs of the Day of Judgment motivates Muslims to live a life of righteousness and urgency. Knowing that the end is inevitable inspires self-improvement, accountability, and ethical conduct, which are key aspects of adab.

7. Belief in the Day of Judgment

  • Belief in the Day of Judgment serves as a constant reminder that every deed has consequences. This awareness shapes one’s actions and encourages moral vigilance, sincerity, and kindness, reflecting true adab.

8. Emulating Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

  • The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the ultimate model of adab. Surah Ali Imran (3:31) states, “If you love Allah, then follow me...” His life exemplifies humility, compassion, and devotion, setting a standard for all Muslims to strive toward.

9. Instilling Sincerity, Piety, and Charity

  • Adab is deeply rooted in qualities like sincerity in worship, piety in actions, and generosity toward others. These traits reflect the character of a true Muslim and signify a strong bond with Allah. By practicing these virtues, Muslims enhance their faith and embody the essence of Islam.

  • Adab and Iman are inseparable, working together to guide Muslims in their worship, conduct, and interactions with others. By embodying proper adab, one strengthens their Iman, fulfills their purpose as a servant of Allah, and prepares for success in both this world and the hereafter.

Group 5: Appreciation for Nature and the Environment (Sustainability in Islam)

  • Islam places immense importance on the care and preservation of the environment, viewing it as an integral aspect of worship and devotion. The natural world reflects Allah’s wisdom and is entrusted to humanity as a trust (Amanah). Muslims are guided to act as stewards (Khalifah) of the earth, ensuring its resources are used responsibly and preserved for future generations.

Why Care for Nature and the Environment?

  1. Khilafah (Stewardship):
    Allah has appointed humans as Khalifah (caretakers) of the earth. This role entails a moral and spiritual responsibility to protect and sustain the environment. Misusing or depleting natural resources goes against this divine trust.

  2. Respect for Nature:
    Nature is a manifestation of Allah’s wisdom and power. By respecting and preserving it, Muslims show gratitude for Allah’s creation and reflect their faith. The Quran encourages believers to contemplate the signs of Allah in the natural world, deepening their connection with Him.

  3. Moderation:
    Islam emphasizes moderation (wasatiyyah) in all aspects of life, including the use of natural resources. Wastefulness and overexploitation are discouraged, with Muslims urged to consume responsibly and avoid harming the environment.

  4. Accountability:
    Every action, including how one treats the environment, will be judged on the Day of Judgment. Muslims are reminded that they will be held accountable for their role as stewards of Allah’s creation.

Responsibilities of Muslims Under Tawhid (Oneness of Allah)

  1. Recognizing Humanity’s Role:
    As part of Allah’s creation, humans are entrusted with maintaining balance and harmony in the environment. Misusing or exploiting nature violates this trust and disrupts the balance intended by Allah. A balanced and healthy lifestyle reflects this understanding.

  2. Sustaining Allah’s Creation:
    Muslims are obligated to act as protectors, ensuring the sustainability of natural resources. This includes refraining from activities that cause harm to the earth, such as pollution or deforestation.

How Muslims Can Act Sustainably

  1. Reflect on Allah’s Signs in Creation:
    The Quran repeatedly urges believers to ponder the beauty and intricacy of nature as a means of recognizing Allah’s greatness. This reflection inspires gratitude and motivates Muslims to protect the environment.

  2. Adopt Sustainable Practices:
    Muslims are encouraged to integrate eco-friendly practices into their daily lives, such as reducing waste, conserving water, and using renewable energy sources.

  3. Engage in Environmental Acts of Worship:
    Acts like planting trees, cleaning public spaces, and conserving resources are considered forms of worship when done with the intention of pleasing Allah.

  4. Avoid Harm to Nature:
    Islam prohibits causing harm (fasad) to the earth. Actions that pollute, waste, or destroy the environment contradict Islamic teachings and undermine the balance established by Allah.

Relevant Hadith and Quranic Evidence

  • Surah Al-Isra (17:27):
    “Indeed, the wasteful are brothers of the devils, and ever has Satan been to his Lord ungrateful.”
    This verse highlights the importance of avoiding wastefulness as part of environmental responsibility.

  • The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said:
    “If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person, or an animal eats from it, it is regarded as a charitable gift (Sadaqah) for him.” (Sahih Bukhari)
    This hadith underscores the value of environmental conservation and its spiritual reward.

By appreciating and protecting nature, Muslims fulfill their role as stewards of the earth and uphold the principles of Tawhid. Sustainability in Islam is not merely a social obligation but a divine responsibility, reflecting one’s devotion and gratitude to Allah.

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