Neglecting the Book of Wisdom: The Root Cause of Humanity's Decline

The Qur’an – A Divine Blueprint for Success* 

The Qur’an is not merely a book; it is Allah’s eternal guidance and a roadmap for human civilization. Yet, history shows that whenever societies neglect its teachings, they face decline—spiritually, morally, and socially.

Allah says:

"This is the Book about which there is no doubt, a guidance for those conscious of Allah." (Quran 2:2)

This article explores:

• The consequences of abandoning the Qur’an.
• How Muslim civilizations thrived when they upheld it.
• Practical steps to revive our connection with divine wisdom.

1. The Qur’an: A Complete Guide for Humanity More Than Just Recitation

The Qur’an provides solutions for:

• Spiritual growth (Tawheed, sincerity, mindfulness of Allah).
• Social justice (rights of neighbors, orphans, women).
• Economic ethics (prohibition of riba, emphasis on charity).
• Moral conduct (honesty, patience, forgiveness).

"And the Messenger will say, ‘O my Lord! My people have indeed received this Quran with neglect.’" (Quran 25:30)

2. The Golden Age: When the Qur’an Was Lived

Islamic Civilization at Its Peak 

From the 8th to 14th centuries, Muslim societies led the world in:

• Science: Ibn Sina (medicine), Al-Khwarizmi (algebra).
• Philosophy & Ethics: Al-Ghazali’s spiritual teachings.
• Justice & Governance: Umar ibn Al-Khattab’s (RA) rule.

3. Signs of Neglect: The Consequences of Abandoning the Qur’an

A. Spiritual Decline

• Materialism over faith: Pursuing dunya while neglecting Salah, Quran, and dhikr.
• Moral confusion: Normalizing what the Qur’an forbids (e.g., interest, indecency).

B. Social Breakdown

• Family disintegration: High divorce rates, neglect of parental rights. 
• Injustice: Oppression of the weak, corruption in leadership.

C. Economic Corruption

• Riba-based economies: Leading to wealth inequality and financial crises.
• Fraud & exploitation: Unethical business practices.

D. Global Conflicts

• Wars fueled by greed: Instead of the Qur’an’s teachings on peace and justice.

Allah’s Law is Unchanged:

"And whatever strikes you of disaster—it is for what your hands have earned." (Quran 42:30)

5. Revival Through the Qur’an: A Roadmap

A. Personal Reformation

1. Daily Recitation & Reflection (Tadabbur): "Do they not ponder the Qur’an?" (Quran 4:82)

2. Implement One Ayah at a Time: Start with honesty, kindness, or patience.

B. Family Revival

• Teach children the Qur’an early—not just recitation, but meaning.
• Qur’an-centered homes: Replace idle talk with dhikr and discussion of verses.

C. Societal Change

• Promote justice: Stand against oppression in communities.
• Ethical business: Reject riba and fraud.

6. Practical Steps to Reconnect with the Qur’an

1. Set a Daily Quran Routine (even 5 verses with meaning).

2. Join/Start a Study Circle (Tafsir sessions).

3. Support Qur’anic Initiatives (Islamic schools, media).

Will We Uphold or Abandon the Qur’an?

The Qur’an is not a relic of the past—it is the solution to modern crises. The choice is ours:

Follow it → Guidance, honor, and success.

Neglect it → Decline, confusion, and divine punishment.

"And this [Qur’an] is a blessed Book which We have revealed—so follow it and fear Allah that you may receive mercy." (Quran 6:155)

Written By

Shamil Siraj

University of Colombo School of Computing (R), 1st Year

University of Colombo.

Maximizing Your Time: An Islamic Guide to Productivity and Barakah

Time – A Precious Gift from Allah

Time is the one resource we can never regain once lost. In Islam, time is not just seconds and minutes—it is a divine trust (amanah) from Allah. The Quran and Sunnahrepeatedly emphasize its value:

"By time, indeed mankind is in loss, except for those who believe, do righteous deeds, and enjoin one another to truth and patience." (Quran, Surah Al-Asr 103:1-3)

This article explores practical Islamic strategies to maximize time, increase productivity, and seek barakah (blessings) in every moment.

1. Understanding the Value of Time in Islam

Why Time Matters

• A finite resource: Unlike wealth or health, time cannot be replenished.
• Accountability: The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said: "A servant will not take a step on the Day of Judgment until he is asked about four things: His life and how he spent it..." (Tirmidhi)
• Barakah: Proper time management invites Allah’s blessings, making little time yield great results.

2. Setting Islamic Priorities

The Hierarchy of Importance

1. Worship (Ibadah): Salah, Quran, dhikr.
2. Family & Responsibilities: Parents, spouse, children.
3. Personal Growth: Knowledge, health, halal income.

Avoid:

● Endless scrolling, gossip, or activities with no benefit.

"The wise one is he who controls his desires and works for what comes after death." (Tirmidhi)

3. Structuring Your Day Around Salah

The Power of Prayer-Centric Scheduling

• Fajr to Isha: Plan your day from the early morning (a blessed time).
• Post-Salah Productivity: Use the 15-30 minutes after Salah for dhikr and important tasks (barakah time).

Example Routine:

• Fajr: Pray, recite Quran, plan the day.
• Dhuhr: Pray, then focus on work/study.
• Asr: Short break, reflection.
• Maghrib/Isha: Family time, worship, review.

4. Turning Daily Actions into Worship

The Power of Niyyah (Intention)

• Eating: Intend to strengthen your body for worship.
• Work: Seek halal provision to support your family.
• Sleep: Rest to rejuvenate for ibadah.

"Even meeting your brother with a cheerful face is charity." (Tirmidhi)

5. Overcoming Procrastination – The Islamic Way

Why We Delay & How to Stop

• Shaytan’s trap: "Do it later" leads to wasted days.
• Solution:

1. Break tasks into smaller steps (e.g., read 1 page of Quran daily).
2. Accountability: Partner with a friend for goals (e.g., Quran memorization).

6. The Company You Keep Matters

Surround Yourself with the Right People

• Productive friends: Encourage growth, not idle talk.
• Avoid negativity: Toxic relationships drain time and energy.

"And keep yourself patient with those who call upon their Lord morning and evening, seeking His face." (Quran 18:28)

Time is Your Capital—Invest It Wisely

Every second is an opportunity to earn Allah’s pleasure. Let’s strive to:

• Prioritize worship & responsibilities
• Eliminate distractions
• Seek barakah through dua and dhikr
• Surround ourselves with positive influences

"So when you have finished [your duties], then stand up [for worship]." (Quran 94:7)

May Allah grant us the ability to use our time in a way that pleases Him. Ameen.

Written By

Ibrahim Ifham

University of Colombo School of Computing (R), 1st Year

University of Colombo.

The Power of Sincere Deeds

In a world where actions are often driven by personal gain or societal approval, Islam teaches us the transformative power of sincerity. A profound Hadith from the Prophet Muhammad(sal) narrates the story of three men trapped in a cave by a massive rock. Their escape came not through physical strength, but through the power of their sincere deeds-each one calling upon Allah by recalling an act of righteousness they had done purely for His sake.

This story is more than a historical account; it is a timeless lesson on how sincerity in our actions can become a means of divine help, blessings, and salvation.

The Three Stories of Sincerity

1. The First Man - Dutifulness to Parents

One of the men had elderly parents whom he cared for with deep devotion. Every night, he would serve them milk before anyone else, including his own family. One evening, he returned late to find his parents asleep. Rather than serving his children first, he patiently waited-holding the milk vessel in his hand-until his parents woke at dawn. Only then he served the children.

The Lesson : Parental rights are sacred in Islam. The Quran repeatedly emphasizes kindness to parents, and this man's unwavering dedication exemplifies that.

Sacrifice for parents is a means of divine relief. His selflessness became a reason for Allah to remove a portion of the rock blocking their escape.

"And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And do good to parents..." (Quran 17:23)

2. The Second Man - The Man Who Resisted Temptation

The second man had once been deeply infatuated with a woman and had the chance to commit zina(fornication) with her. However, he refrained, fearing Allah's punishment and seeking his mercy. 

The Lesson : True faith is tested in moments of desire. Resisting sin when no one is watching is a mark of sincere faith (Ihsan).

Allah rewards self-restraint. His fear of Allah, not societal pressure, led to another portion of the rock being lifted.

"And those who guard their chastity, except from their spouses... They will be in gardens, honored." (Quran 70:29-35)

3. The Third Man - The Man Who Returned Wealth with Honesty

The third man had once hired laborers and paid them all-except one who left without collecting his wages. Instead of keeping the money, the man invested it honestly until it multiplied into a fortune. Years later, when the worker returned, the man handed him everything-every camel, cow, and coin that had grown from his original wage.

The Lesson : Trustworthiness is a pillar of faith. The Prophet (y) said, "The honest merchant will be with the prophets, the truthful, and the martyrs." (Tirmidhi)

Wealth is a test of integrity. His honesty became the final key to their deliverance.

"Indeed, Allah commands you to return trusts to their rightful owners; and when you judge between people, judge with fairness" (Quran 4:58)

Why Sincerity Matters

1. Deeds Are Judged by Intentions

The Prophet (sal) said: "Actions are judged by intentions, and every person will have what they intended." (Bukhari & Muslim)

2. Sincerity Turns Small Acts into Great Rewards

A simple act-like waiting to serve parents or resisting a glance-can weigh heavier than grand gestures done for show.

3. Allah Responds to the Sincere

The rock didn't move because of the men's strength, but because Allah honored their sincerity.

How to Cultivate Sincerity in Daily Life

1. Before Acting: Check Your Intention

Ask: "Am I doing this for Allah or for praise?"

2. In Worship: Focus on Quality, Not Quantity

A single heartfelt prayer is better than a distracted routine.

3. In Challenges: Seek Allah's Help Through Righteous Deeds

Like the men in the cave, recall past sincerity in times of difficulty.

4. In Society: Lead by Example

Let honesty, chastity, and kindness define you-even when no one is watching.

Let Your Deeds Be Your Salvation

The cave's rock was a physical barrier, but the real barriers we face-stress, sin, and hardship-can also be overcome through sincere deeds. Whether it's:

• A son's patience with his parents,
• A believer's resistance to temptation,
• Or a worker's honesty with wealth,

Allah sees and rewards those who act for Him alone.

"So whoever does an atom's weight of good will see it, and whoever does an atom's weight of evil will see it." (Quran 99:7-8)

May Allah make us among those whose deeds are sincere and accepted. Ameen.

Written By

Harshath Mohamed

University of Colombo School of Computing (R), 1st Year

University of Colombo.

Cultivating Love for the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم)

Love for the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) is a fundamental aspect of faith in Islam. The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) is not only the final Messenger of Allah but also the perfect

example of mercy, wisdom, and devotion. Loving him is an obligation for every Muslim, as it strengthens one’s connection with Allah and inspires righteous living.

Why Loving the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم ) is Essential

Allah says in the Quran:

"Say, [O Muhammad], 'If your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your wives, your relatives, wealth which you have obtained, commerce wherein you fear decline, and dwellings with which you are pleased are more beloved to you than Allah and His Messenger and jihad in His cause, then wait until Allah executes His command. And Allah does not guide the defiantly disobedient people.'" (Quran 9:24)

This verse emphasizes that love for Allah and His Messenger (صلى الله عليه وسلم ) must surpass all worldly attachments. 

The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) himself said:

"None of you truly believes until I become more dearer to him than his children, his parents, and all of mankind." (Bukhari & Muslim).

How to Cultivate Love for the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم)

1. Increase Knowledge About His Life (Seerah)

Studying the Prophet’s life helps Muslims understand his sacrifices, patience, and unwavering faith. Reading books like Ar-Raheeq Al-Makhtum (The Sealed Nectar) deepens appreciation for his struggles and triumphs.

2. Follow His Sunnah

Loving the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) means emulating his actions, speech, and character. Whether in worship, business, or family life, adhering to his teachings brings us closer to him.

The Quran says:

"Indeed, in the Messenger of Allah you have an excellent example for whoever has hope in Allah and the last day, and remembers Allah often” (Quran 33:21)

3. Send Blessings (Salawat) Upon Him

Allah commands believers to send blessings upon the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم):

"Indeed, Allah showers His blessings upon the Prophet, and His angels pray for him. O  believers! Invoke Allah’s blessings upon him, and salute him with worthy greetings of peace." (Quran 33:56)

Reciting Salawat daily—such as "Allahumma salli 'ala Muhammad"—strengthens spiritual connection and earns divine rewards.

4. Defend His Honor

A true lover of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) defends his honor against insults and misrepresentations. This includes correcting misconceptions with wisdom and kindness, as he (صلى الله عليه وسلم) did throughout his life. 

The Fruits of Loving the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم)

• Stronger Iman (Faith): Love for the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم ) reinforces love for Allah.
• Guidance in Life: Following his Sunnah leads to success in this world and the Hereafter.
• Intercession on Judgment Day: The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) will intercede for those who truly loved him.

Loving the Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) is not merely an emotion but a way of life. By learning about him, following his teachings, and sending blessings upon him, we fulfill a crucial aspect of our faith. May Allah fill our hearts with sincere love for His beloved Messenger (صلى الله عليه وسلم ) and grant us the honor of his companionship in Jannah. Ameen..

"O Allah, bless Muhammad and the family of Muhammad as You blessed Ibrahim and the family of Ibrahim. O Allah, send Your mercy upon Muhammad and the family of Muhammad as You sent Your mercy upon Ibrahim and the family of Ibrahim. Indeed, You are Praiseworthy and Glorious." (Bukhari)

Written By

Muaad Muharis

University of Colombo School of Computing (R), 1st Year

University of Colombo.

Empowering Women with Financial Literacy

In Islam, women hold a dignified and respected position, with rights to education, property, and financial independence. The Quran and Sunnah emphasize the importance of knowledge, including financial literacy, for both men and women. Empowering women with financial literacy not only strengthens their personal well-being but also contributes to family stability and societal progress.

The Islamic Perspective on Women's Financial Rights

Islam granted women financial rights over 1,400 years ago-long before many societies recognized them. Key Islamic teachings include:

1. Right to Own Property

• Women can independently own, buy, sell, and inherit wealth.
• The Quran states: "For men is a share of what the parents and close relatives leave, and for women is a share of what the parents and close relatives leave, be it little or much-an obligatory share." (Quran 4:7)

2. Right to Earn and Manage Wealth

• Khadijah (RA), the first wife of the Prophet (), was a successful businesswoman.
• Women can work, invest, and engage in trade, provided Islamic guidelines are followed.

3. Financial Security in Marriage

• A woman's wealth remains hers alone; husbands have no right to it unless given willingly.
•  Mahr (dowry) is her exclusive right, and she cannot be forced to spend it.

Why Financial Literacy Matters for Muslim Women

Financial literacy-understanding saving, investing, budgeting, and debt management-empowers women:

• To make informed decisions
• Achieve financial independence and stability
• Strengthen families, communities and economies

Challenges to Women's Financial Independence

• Limited access to financial education and resources
• Social and cultural barriers
• Gender wage gaps and economic disparities
• Lack of confidence in financial decision-making

How to Improve Financial Literacy for Women

• Introduce financial education in schools and communities
• Encourage women to seek financial advice and mentorship
• Promote access to banking, savings, and investment opportunities
• Use digital tools and online resources for self-learning

Success Stories of Financially Empowered Women

Islam has always encouraged women's economic participation, and throughout history-from the time of the Prophet () to today-Muslim women have excelled in business, trade, and leadership. Here are inspiring success stories of women who achieved financial independence while upholding islamic values.

• Fatima al-Fihri: Established the University of Al Qarawiyyin in Morocco (859), the world's oldest university
• Aisha bint Abu Bakr: A scholar and teacher, known for narrating over 2,000 hadiths and advising political leaders
• Rufaida Al-Aslamia: A pioneering nurse who established mobile medical units during battles
• Sutayta Al-Mahmali (10th Century, Baghdad) A mathematician and scholar, she contributed to algebra and arithmetic, teaching many students in the Islamic Golden Age
• Zubaidah bint Ja'far (8th-9th Century, Abbasid Empire) - Wife of Caliph Harun al-Rashid, she invested in infrastructure, education, and social welfare, ensuring women had access to learning
• Shifa bint Abdullah (Prophet Muhammad's ملسو هيئع الله لم Era Arabia) - One of the first female teachers and medical practitioners in Islam, she taught women reading, writing, and medical care

Financial literacy is not just a modern concept-it is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings. By empowering Muslim women with financial knowledge, we honor the rights given to them by Allah and enable them to live with dignity, security, and confidence.

"Allah will grant ease after hardship." (Quran 65:7)

May Allah guide Muslim women to financial wisdom and prosperity. Ameen.

Written By

Thanseer Ahamed

University of Colombo School of Computing (R), 1st Year

University of Colombo.

The Heartfelt Duty of Honoring Parents

They held our tiny hands when we took your first steps. They stayed awake through countless nights, whispering prayers over our sleeping form. They gave up their own dreams so we could chase ours. And yet, how often do we truly pause to think about the weight of their sacrifices? How often do we look at them, not just as "parents" but as the greatest blessings Allah SWT has given us?

Allah SWT commands in the Quran, "And your Lord has decreed that you not worship except Him, and to parents, good treatment. Whether one or both of them reach old age while with you, say not to them [so much as] 'uff' and do not repel them but speak to them a noble word." (Surah Al-Isra 17:23). Imagine just one sigh of frustration, one eye-roll, one moment of impatience, and we risk displeasing the One who created us. Because the love of our parents is not ordinary; it is sacred.

The Prophet Muhammad PBUH was once asked, “Who among the people is most deserving of my good company?” And he replied, “Your mother.” The man asked again, “Then who?” The Prophet said, “Your mother.” The man asked a third time, “Then who?” He said, “Your mother.” Only after the fourth time did he say, “Then your father.” (Bukhari & Muslim). Three times before anyone else our mother. The one who carried us in her womb, endured pain we will never understand, and still loved us when we were ungrateful. And our fathers the silent protectors, the ones who bore hardships we never saw, who walked through storms so we could live in comfort. Yet, how often do we neglect them, taking their presence for granted?

One day, their voices will become memories. The hands that once held yours will no longer be there to hold. Their absence will leave a silence so deep it will make you wish just for one more moment to hear them call your name. But by then, all you will have are regrets and prayers.

So while they are still here, cherish them. Serve them. Love them the way they have loved you with a love that asks for nothing in return. Hold their hands before it’s too late. Speak gently before your voice becomes an echo in an empty room. Pray for them while they can still hear your voice.

Ya Allah, grant us the ability to love, honor, and serve our parents in the way that pleases You. Forgive us for every moment we failed them, and bless them with ease in this life and the next. Aameen.

Written By

Asriya Ameen

Faculty of Management and Finance (R), 3rd Year

University of Colombo.