Shorts

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was asked about the most excellent form of *jihad*. He responded that the greatest *jihad* is the struggle against one’s own base desires (*nafs*) in obedience to God. This involves suppressing harmful inclinations, humbling oneself before God, and striving for spiritual purification. This internal struggle is superior to fighting in the path of God.

Dr. Israr Ahmad

253

True faith is demonstrated through actions motivated solely by devotion to God. Loving for God's sake and hating for God's sake are fundamental aspects of complete faith. Giving and withholding should also be done solely to please God, adhering to divine command. A believer’s love and animosity stem from adherence to or rejection of God’s principles, not personal desires. Fulfilling these four conditions – loving for God, hating for God, giving for God, and withholding for God – completes one’s faith.

Dr. Israr Ahmad

68

This lecture details the signs and characteristics of the Dajjal, a figure in Islamic eschatology. It describes his immense power, including the ability to resurrect the dead, manipulate perceptions, control weather, and traverse vast distances instantaneously. The Dajjal will claim divinity and perform miracles, attracting followers through illusions and false promises. He will possess complete dominion over the universe and demonstrate his power by splitting a person in two and then restoring them. This bayān explains these prophecies as detailed in hadith.

Dr. Israr Ahmad

73

This lecture details the Islamic guidelines for Muslim women’s clothing. It emphasizes loose-fitting garments that do not reveal the body’s contours, ensuring modesty and preventing undue attention. The discussion covers the importance of covering the head and neck, and maintaining a humble demeanor to safeguard against unwanted gazes, even from male family members. The goal is to uphold Islamic values of modesty and respect.

Dr. Israr Ahmad

122

Dr. Israr Ahmad discusses the principles of Islamic commerce, emphasizing that Islam doesn't fix profit levels but discourages excessive profiteering. He explains that pricing is naturally regulated by market forces of supply and demand. When supply exceeds demand, prices fall. Conversely, when demand exceeds supply, prices rise. Imposing legal restrictions on pricing would lead to black market activity. He advocates allowing these natural market forces to operate freely.

Dr. Israr Ahmad

65

The lecture emphasizes that a lack of empathy and compassion leads to spiritual deprivation. True piety isn’t demonstrated through rituals alone, but through actively alleviating the suffering of others. One who witnesses another’s pain and possesses the means to help, yet fails to do so, forfeits blessings. Genuine faith demands shared sorrow and a commitment to easing the burdens of fellow humans. Mere observance of prayers and nocturnal worship are insufficient without accompanying heartfelt compassion and practical assistance.

Dr. Israr Ahmad

70