By lilly_en_route
The concept of self-determination has been a guiding principle throughout human history. It is the essence of autonomy, of agency, of crafting one’s destiny with purpose and intention. In Islam, this principle is not just acknowledged; it is sanctified. The Qur'an and the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad illuminate this path, reminding us that the ability to choose, to strive, and to grow is one of the greatest blessings bestowed upon humankind.
Allah says in the Qur'an: “Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves” (Surah Ar-Ra'd, 13:11). This verse is profound in its simplicity and revolutionary in its implications. It places the power of transformation firmly in our hands. It tells us that Allah, in His infinite wisdom, has granted us the ability to shape our lives, to overcome obstacles, and to rise from the ashes of despair. It is an invitation to take charge of our destiny, with the assurance that our efforts will never be in vain.
The Trust of Free Will
When Allah created humanity, He entrusted us with something the heavens, the earth, and the mountains refused to bear: the trust. This trust is our free will, our ability to make choices, and our responsibility to use this gift wisely. Surah Al-Ahzab (33:72) reminds us of this monumental responsibility: “Indeed, We offered the Trust to the heavens and the earth and the mountains, and they declined to bear it and feared it; but man [undertook to] bear it. Indeed, he was unjust and ignorant.”
This verse is not a condemnation but a testament to the extraordinary potential of human beings. Despite our flaws, we were chosen to carry this trust because Allah saw in us the capacity for greatness. He endowed us with intellect, emotion, and willpower, creating a harmonious balance that enables us to navigate life’s complexities.
Striving for Excellence
Islam teaches us that life is not a passive existence but an active journey of striving and self-improvement. The Prophet Muhammad said, “The strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer, while there is good in both. Strive for that which will benefit you, seek the help of Allah, and do not feel helpless” (Sahih Muslim).
This hadith encapsulates the spirit of self-determination. It encourages us to harness our strength, focus on our goals, and seek Allah’s assistance while taking responsibility for our efforts. It reminds us that even in moments of weakness, we are capable of rising again, for Allah’s mercy and guidance are always within reach.
The Role of Tawakkul (Reliance on Allah)
Self-determination in Islam does not mean absolute independence from the Creator. On the contrary, it is deeply intertwined with tawakkul, the reliance on Allah. This reliance is not a surrender of effort but a recognition that while we strive with all our might, the outcomes rest with Allah. It is an act of humility that strengthens our resolve, knowing that our Creator’s wisdom surpasses our understanding.
The story of Hajar, the wife of Abraham, is a powerful example of this balance. When she found herself in the desolation of the desert with her infant son, Ismail, she ran back and forth between Safa and Marwah, seeking water. Her determination and trust in Allah were unwavering. She took action, and it was through her effort that the miraculous spring of Zamzam was provided. This story is a timeless lesson that our struggles, combined with faith, can lead to divine blessings beyond our imagination.
Self-Determination and Muslim Women
The narrative of self-determination is particularly empowering for Muslim women. Islam honors and uplifts women, granting them rights and responsibilities that were revolutionary for their time and remain profound today. The Qur'an is replete with examples of strong, self-determined women who shaped history through their faith, courage, and intellect.
Consider the story of Khadijah bint Khuwaylid, the first wife of the Prophet Muhammad. She was a successful businesswoman, a leader in her community, and a source of unwavering support for the Prophet. Her life exemplifies how Islam encourages women to pursue their ambitions while maintaining their faith and integrity. And also, she was the most important person to our Prophet when it comes to encouragement and emotional support. I truly believe Allah placed her with exact precise in this life path, because I do not think that without her, Islam would have become into existence. In her self-determined and out-of-the-box thinking, Prophet Muhammad gained the strength to fulfill his role that Allah gave him.
Another remarkable example is the scholarship of Aisha bint Abu Bakr. As one of the most knowledgeable companions of the Prophet, she contributed to the preservation and understanding of Islamic teachings. Her intellectual legacy continues to inspire generations of Muslim women to seek knowledge and assert their roles as active contributors to society.
Islam grants women the right to education, property ownership, and participation in societal affairs. The Qur'an declares: “And for women is a share of what they have earned” (Surah An-Nisa, 4:32). This verse underscores the principle of individual agency and the acknowledgment of women’s contributions to their families and communities. It is a reminder that self-determination is not confined to men but is a shared responsibility and privilege.
"Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every Muslim, even if you have to travel far away to gain the knowledge."
— (Sunan Ibn Majah 224, Book 1, Hadith 225)
Overcoming Despair
Life is fraught with challenges, and it is easy to feel overwhelmed by adversity. Yet, Islam provides us with the tools to overcome despair and reclaim our sense of purpose. The Qur'an reminds us: “Do not despair of the mercy of Allah. Indeed, Allah forgives all sins. Indeed, it is He who is the Forgiving, the Merciful” (Surah Az-Zumar, 39:53).
This verse is a lifeline for the weary soul. It assures us that no matter how far we have strayed or how insurmountable our problems seem, Allah’s mercy is always greater. It is a call to rise, to seek forgiveness, and to renew our commitment to self-betterment.
Building a Legacy
Self-determination is not just about personal success; it is about contributing to the betterment of society and leaving a legacy that inspires others. The Prophet Muhammad said, “The best of people are those that bring the most benefit to the rest of mankind” (Daraqutni). This hadith encourages us to use our talents and resources to uplift others, creating a ripple effect of goodness that transcends generations.
A Personal Reflection
I often find myself reflecting on the profound beauty of women's (and men's) self-determination in Islam. It is not a solitary journey but one that is deeply connected to our Creator, our community (however colourful that one might be), and our ultimate purpose. There have been moments in my life when I felt lost, unsure of my path, and burdened by the weight of expectations. In those moments, I turned to Allah, seeking guidance and strength. And every time, without fail, I found solace in the Qur'an, in prayer, and in the quiet assurance that I was never alone. No matter what people would tell about me or my mother, deep inside, I knew that Allah is with everyone who has a good heart and puts love first. People do not make Allah. Allah makes people. And every stone, every plant, every animal -and every human has been given a purpose and a place. We can each other's tests. But we can also thrive to encourage each other to lead self-determined lives and embrace differences, struggles and get rid of false pride and weird expectations.
One of the most transformative lessons I have learned is that self-determination in itself is an act of worship. When we set goals, work hard, and strive for excellence, we are honoring the trust Allah has placed in us. When we overcome obstacles with patience and perseverance, we are embodying the spirit of Islam. When we love people and encourage them to do good and remind them of the beauty of life, we are fulfilling our duty and moral compass as believers, spreading the light of faith, and embodying the mercy and compassion that Allah has enjoined upon us. And when we succeed in a tough period in our lives, we are reminded to express gratitude to the One who made it all possible.
An Invitation to Reflect
As you read these words, I invite you to pause and reflect on your own journey. What are the dreams that stir your heart? What are the challenges that test your resolve? And most importantly, how can you align your efforts with the divine purpose for which you were created?
Remember, you are not alone in this journey. Allah is with you every step of the way, guiding you, supporting you, and cheering for your success. The angels record your struggles, and every tear shed in sincerity is a testament to your strength. And everything that people put you through will be recorded as a debt towards you. So you are allowed to take your time, to heal, to do things differently than the majority, if it helps you - and do not ever let people without any knowledge and respect dictate your life. You are capable of greatness because Allah has already equipped you with everything you need to succeed. Thus, you will always succeed, because you, my dear, should never give up on yourself. Allah is always with you on your journey.
Good things are always following the bad ones💕
“For indeed, with hardship [will be] ease. Indeed, with hardship [will be] ease.”
— (Surah Ash-Sharh, 94:6-7)
“Know that victory comes with patience, relief with affliction, and ease with hardship.”
— (Sunan al-Tirmidhi 2516)
May we all strive to fulfill our potential, to honor the trust we have been given, and to leave a legacy that inspires others. And may Allah grant us the strength, wisdom, and determination to walk this path with grace and humility.
In your 99 beautiful names I pray, ya rabbi, ameen.
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