The Correct Perspective

With Allah's Name, The Merciful Benefactor, The Merciful Redeemer

THE GOAL

“I have only created Jinns and men, that they may serve (worship) Me.” (Holy Qur'an, 51:56)

The Arabic word for "worship" is ibaadah, and it applies only to God. This is why in Islam we say that Allah is the only one that deserves worship. So, our purpose in this life is to worship our Lord. Period. But much more than in the sense of praying five times a day. Ibaadah implies doing those things that are pleasing to your Lord; good deeds.

Those things done with the intention of obeying the commands of Allah and his Last Prophet (prayers and peace be upon him) are forms of Ibaadah... from washing your body for prayer to getting a good education so that you can provide for your family and community. Anything outside of this intention may fall into the category of customs or practices. But it is important to understand that every good life or good living is Ibaadah, and we have the best example of that life in the last Prophet, Muhammad (saw).

With that said, our ulitmate goal should be to please our Lord, i.e. worship Allah and obey his commands. As a result we will be rewarded with Paradise. (Yay!!)


PERSPECTIVE

"Satan makes them promises, and creates in them false desires; but satan's promises are nothing but deception." (Holy Qur'an, 4:120)


Life is about perspective. When you have the correct perspective of things, i.e. the perspective that G-d wants for you as a righteous human being, then you are well on your way to pleasing your Lord and if G-d wills, gaining the Paradise. You have a clear view of the direction needed to travel and you understand the do's and don'ts of life.

If you don't have correct perception, follow someone who has. The Best Example is Prophet Muhammad (saw). Study those leaders who follow his example and find your direction!

AND remember, the next step involves action. It is not enough to have the correct perspective or the correct insight into a situation. One must act accordingly.