There Is Actually a Difference in the Actions of Muslims and Disbelievers
At one stage in our discussion in part one of the article, we asked the question: In reactions to earthquakes, Muslims also run out of their homes; they also think buildings need to be constructed more solidly, etc. So where does the difference remain between the beliefs of Muslims and disbelievers?!
The larger part of that answer has just been given. Still, discussion of one important matter remains. Because even though the actions of a believer and the actions of a disbeliever may look similar, they are not the same. Those whose belief includes faith and those whose belief doesn’t include faith – there is definitely a difference in the manner of actions between these two parties. Even if the action is the same, the manner is never the same. There is always some difference. If there is never any difference, then the state of both becomes equal (Allah forbid)! This might not matter much to a disbeliever, but a believer’s faith becomes questionable! Even our wearing of clothes, eating, sleeping, fulfilling needs and fulfilling desires are according to Allah’s commands and prohibitions, because I we are believers. How can everything about these actions of ours match with those of a disbeliever?! That is not possible.
Now if a Muslim asks himself: Where was my faith when I was running out of the house in distress due to the earthquake??! If I say faith was there – then I ask myself again, how was its reflection in my actions?! The reflection of faith is in deeds. Faith is manifested through actions or deeds.
That general answer or argument we give is: Allah has told us to make efforts. Shouldn’t we try to escape and survive?! Yes, a very good logic. We do not say, “this cannot be done, just sit and make no efforts” – But brother! Exactly what effort are you making to try to escape from the earthquake – well, this question demands a logical reply too!
Have any of us received certain information that if we come out from inside the buildings, other buildings won’t fall on our heads?! Even more surprising is: the restlessness and speed with which we try to run out of homes – how much consistent is that with the dignity of a Believer?!
Alas, “we” (by Allah’s endless mercy) are Muslims!
When someone saw Sayyiduna Ali ibn Abi Talib (may Allah be pleased with him) dozing on his mount during the Battle of Siffin, he said, “You seem to be drowsy midst such a terrible battle??!” What an excellent reply Ali radiallahu anhu gave!! “You tell me, on which day will I escape from death – the day when death will not come, or the day when my death will certainly come?” Subhan’Allah! This is the firmness of faith.
It Is Necessary to Examine One’s Faith and Repent
But sadly, today Allah’s name is on our tongues, we are also proud to be the Ummah (nation) of the best and final Prophet ﷺ. But most of our actions, efforts, and conditions are giving a different message regarding our true identity as the follower/ummah of the final Prophet ﷺ.
Certainly, an earthquake is not an ordinary event! How many nations have Allah destroyed through this severe punishment in the past. Even now, how high-magnitude earthquakes somewhere crush and demolish huge buildings! May Allah forgive us…how horrific could be its consequences! But there is a great deal of paucity among us in paying attention to its root cause. Our activities and reactions are living witnesses to this.
The difference in thinking between Muslims and non-Muslims also creates differences in actions. Today, the thinking of non-Muslims has begun to enter the minds of Muslims, which is why the actions of Muslims are becoming like those of non-Muslims! Its rapid cure and correction are urgent.
A Muslim will give the highest importance to returning to Allah (ruju’ ilallah) as preparation for earthquakes or any disaster and punishment. All subsidiary efforts and endeavors will be in the way Allah wants. What kind of caution and precaution is that while forgetting Allah and continuing His disobedience (meaning without any concern for sins)?! Allah forbid, if disaster actually comes, then the believer will not become extremely impatient or hopeless. If death occurs, insha’Allah there will be mercy for him in all circumstances from Allah Amighty, the most Gracious and Merciful. If life remains, he will live an even more Iman-awakening life. He will refrain more cautiously from forbidden actions (sins). No one has a way to escape from inevitable death. Death is something to embrace, not to prevent or escape from! Death is a command from Allah – everyone must accept it – there is no choice regarding it whether to die today or tomorrow!
We are ending once again with the verse mentioned at the very beginning (this is so that we deeply contemplate the verse and become alert!); Allah says in Sura Ar-Rum:
ظَهَرَ ٱلْفَسَادُ فِى ٱلْبَرِّ وَٱلْبَحْرِ بِمَا كَسَبَتْ أَيْدِى ٱلنَّاسِ لِيُذِيقَهُم بَعْضَ ٱلَّذِى عَمِلُوا۟ لَعَلَّهُمْ يَرْجِعُونَ
Meaning: “Corruption has appeared throughout the land and sea by what the hands of people have earned so He may let them taste part of what they have done that perhaps they will return [to righteousness].” Sura Ar-Rum – 30:41
The beloved Prophet ﷺ called that person intelligent who prepares for death before death arrives. Can’t we be like that? May Allah grant us the ability to do so (Aameen).
