Introduction:

In today’s fast-paced and ever-changing world, maintaining a balance between Islamic values and the demands of modern life can be a challenge. This article explores the importance of finding equilibrium between Islam and the complexities of the modern era.

Embracing Islamic Values:

Islam provides a comprehensive framework of principles and guidelines that govern all aspects of life. Embracing Islamic values means upholding faith, honesty, compassion, justice, and kindness in our daily interactions. It involves incorporating these principles into our personal, professional, and social lives, regardless of the rapid changes happening around us.

Seeking Knowledge:

Islam places great emphasis on seeking knowledge. In the context of modern life, this means acquiring both religious and secular knowledge. Muslims are encouraged to pursue education, professional development, and scientific advancements, while ensuring that the pursuit of knowledge remains within the boundaries set by Islamic teachings. By integrating knowledge and wisdom, individuals can navigate the challenges of modern life while staying grounded in their faith.

Prioritizing Spiritual Connection:

Amidst the distractions of modern life, maintaining a strong spiritual connection is crucial. Muslims are encouraged to engage in acts of worship such as daily prayers, reading the Quran, and supplication. Establishing a routine that includes spiritual practices helps individuals find solace, seek guidance, and maintain a sense of purpose. By prioritizing their relationship with Allah, Muslims can navigate the complexities of the modern world while remaining spiritually grounded.

Adapting without Compromising:

Adapting to the modern world does not mean compromising core Islamic values. Islam provides a flexible framework that allows for contextual adaptations while preserving the essence of the faith. Muslims can actively participate in various spheres of modern life while adhering to the teachings of Islam. They can contribute positively to society, engage in meaningful careers, and embrace technology while upholding moral and ethical principles.

Balancing Time and Priorities:

In the hustle and bustle of modern life, it is essential to manage time effectively and prioritize obligations. Muslims are encouraged to strike a balance between their religious duties, family responsibilities, work commitments, and personal pursuits. By managing time wisely, individuals can allocate dedicated moments for worship, spending time with loved ones, fulfilling obligations, and engaging in personal growth, ensuring a harmonious existence.

Conclusion:

Maintaining balance between Islam and modern life is a continuous effort. By embracing Islamic values, seeking knowledge, prioritizing spiritual connection, adapting without compromising, and balancing time and priorities, Muslims can navigate the complexities of the modern world while staying true to their faith. Striking this equilibrium allows individuals to lead fulfilling lives, contribute positively to society, and find inner peace amidst the challenges of the contemporary era.

سُبۡحَٰنَكَ لَا عِلۡمَ لَنَآ إِلَّا مَا عَلَّمۡتَنَآۖ إِنَّكَ أَنتَ ٱلۡعَلِيمُ ٱلۡحَكِيمُ

Maksudnya: “Maha Suci Engkau (Ya Allah)! Kami tidak mempunyai pengetahuan selain daripada apa yang Engkau telah ajarkan kepada kami. Sesungguhnya Engkau Maha Mengetahui, lagi Maha Bijaksana”.

Surah Al-Baqarah: Ayat 32

• Marilah sama-sama kita berdoa kepada Allah agar dikurniakan ilmu dan dapat beramal dengan ilmu yang bermanfaat kerana sesungguhnya ilmu dan hikmah semuanya adalah kepunyaan-Nya.

Allah says in Quran:

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلنَّاسُ إِنَّا خَلَقۡنَٰكُم مِّن ذَكَرٖ وَأُنثَىٰ وَجَعَلۡنَٰكُمۡ شُعُوبٗا وَقَبَآئِلَ لِتَعَارَفُوٓاْۚ إِنَّ أَكۡرَمَكُمۡ عِندَ ٱللَّهِ أَتۡقَىٰكُمۡۚ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ عَلِيمٌ خَبِيرٞ

O mankind! We have created you from a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know one another. Verily, the most honourable of you with Allāh is that (believer) who has At‑Taqwā [i.e. he is one of the Al‑Muttaqūn (the pious)(1)]. Verily, Allāh is All‑Knower, Well‑Acquainted (with all things)

Surah Al-Hujuraat: Ayah 13

• Islam does not obligate Muslims to have a single identity only i.e being Muslim, and abolish the others. Islam recognizes the need to have psychological attachments with family, with ethnic and racial groups and regards it as a natural way of being a Muslim. It also allows Muslims to have multiple identities in addition to their family, ethnic and racial group.
• What Islam forbids is racism, where certain ethnic or religious groups condones injustices, unfair treatment, arrogance, and discrimination against other ethnic or religious groups.
• Let us continue to build a peaceful society where people of different races, ethnicities, cultural and religious backgrounds can co-exist as one.

Allah says in Quran:

وَلَا تُصَعِّرۡ خَدَّكَ لِلنَّاسِ وَلَا تَمۡشِ فِي ٱلۡأَرۡضِ مَرَحًاۖ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ لَا يُحِبُّ كُلَّ مُخۡتَالٖ فَخُورٖ

“And turn not your face away from men with pride, nor walk in insolence through the earth. Verily, Allāh likes not any arrogant boaster

Surah Luqman: Ayah 18

• Get rid of arrogance from your heart. Don’t ever feel the need to look down on someone; not for anything that the Almighty has given you – your wealth, power, good looks etc. Remember His Might and Power and how He can take away your blessings in seconds!
• May Allah bless us all with success, health, happiness, patience and strength.