[vc_row][vc_column][vc_column_text]In the first part of this series, we discussed the importance of rectifying the intention when it comes to memorising the Quran and how good deeds can actually be the means of dragging one into the hell fire if the intention relates to worldly gains.
We also touched upon how it’s not only about the end goal when it comes to Hifz, but rather the journey of memorisation itself and how contemplation and reflection should form a significant portion of one’s routine when memorising the glorious Quran.
Stay Grounded
As we mentioned in the first part of this article, it’s very easy for Hifz students to get swept up with praise and recognition. In order to rectify one’s intention, the key is to remain grounded and humble.
Reflecting and contemplating that it is through the will of Allah Almighty alone that one possesses the ability to partake in Hifz, really helps put everything into perspective. This mindset also prevents self-admiration as achievements are all attributed to Allah SWT.
“Do not turn your nose up at people, nor walk about the place arrogantly, for God does not love arrogant or boastful people.” [31:18]
Instead of indulging in praise, the best course of action is to disassociate achievements with oneself and instead link everything back to Allah SWT. Not only will this help cleanse the heart from arrogance and haughtiness, but by showing gratefulness, Allah SWT will increase in our blessings: “If you are grateful, I will surely increase you [in favour]; but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe.” [14:7]
Guard the Tongue
Hifz of the Quran is undoubtedly a noble pursuit, and an Amaanah – Trust. With knowledge comes responsibility, but one can easily fall into the trap of believing that years of studying the words of our Almighty Creator automatically qualifies one to pass judgements and enter into lengthy Halal/Haram debates. It doesn’t make it any easier that the digital world, in the form of Sheikh Google, provides people with unlimited access to share opinions and interpret rulings without thinking twice.
Taking a glimpse into the lives of countless scholars and Sahabahs is a reminder that wisdom often takes the form of silence – when in doubt, silence is golden!
A man once travelled a distance of six months in order to ask Imam Malik about a matter, but he was met with a response of “I don’t know”. Even when he prompted the respectable scholar again, knowing that his people would expect an answer from him, Imam Malik stuck to his principles and refused to pass judgement on the matter.
These scholars did not fall prey to societal expectations. As people of knowledge, they accepted their responsibility of educating those around, but this did not mean that they publicly indulged in matters that they weren’t too well-versed in and instead chose to remain silent. Their intentions were linked to earning the pleasure of Allah SWT alone, and this meant they would guard their tongues with utmost vigilance, even if it meant facing ostracization from those around.
The dangers of issuing incorrect statements within our Deen are not to be taken lightly as Allah SWT says in Surah Al-Nahl [16:116]: “And say not concerning that which your tongues put forth falsely: “This is lawful and this is forbidden,” so as to invent lies against Allah. Verily, those who invent lies against Allah will never prosper.”
It’s never too late to start rectifying one’s intention when it comes to memorising the Quran, and although it takes hard word, dedication and battling one’s desires from within, the reward in the hereafter is something that we don’t want to miss out on!
Our Deen emphasises the need to always remain grounded, even when it comes to one of life’s biggest accomplishments, Quran Hifz. It is important to remain humble and guard one’s tongue from passing quick judgements, like our great predecessors and scholars did before us.
As the proverb goes: ‘Saying I don’t know is half of the knowledge’.
In the next blog post, we’ll be discussing practical steps to improve the memory when it comes to Hifz, including life-style changes to ensure the Quran is actually entering our hearts.
For more information on our Hifz of Quran programme and to support an impoverished child on their journey to memorising the Quran, please click here
Read our previous blog here: RECTIFYING THE INTENTION WHEN IT COMES TO HIFZ – PART 1[/vc_column_text][/vc_column][/vc_row]