Issue No: 138
12th October 2012
24th Dhulqada 1433 A.H.
Salamun alaykum,
Why are you on Earth?
When the above question is posed to a group of people, drawn from different backgrounds, the responses expected to be received would be greatly varied in all aspects. Some of the expected responses would range such as: ‘to enjoy life’, ‘I don’t know’, ‘still searching for an answer’, ‘a re-incarnation’, ‘ask my parents’ ....and on goes the list.
As muslims the Noble Qur’an provides us with a response that the purpose for creation of man on Earth is to be a Steward of Almighty Allah on this earth.
“Behold, your Lord said to the angels: "I am going to place a vicegerent on earth." (Sura Al-Baqara 2:30)
A great responsibility:
As stewards of this planet earth, man has been charged with an important assignment. This is to tend well this earth on which we live as our home. This responsibility is not part time. It is such that it is not limited to a particular age or time.It is one that is full time, it is a life time responsibility.
Tomorrow it’s 25th Dhulq’adah: Dahwul Ardh:
The phrase "Dahwul Ardh" literally means "The spread of the earth".
The spread of the earth in the Noble Qur’an is mentioned in the 30th verse of Sura An-Naazi-at.
THREE things to do on this day:
- Perform ghusl
- Highly Recommended to fast.
- Recite the recommended prayers for the day. Refer to separate email broadcast on a’maals for the day
On this auspicious day of Dahwul Ardh, in addition to performing the recommended devotions (a’amaal) for this event, an opportunity is being provided for man to reflect on their role on the earth. Reflect on our role as Stewards / Trustees of Earth : Our home created by the All-Merciful Creator for our own good.
Just as in the way one takes good care of the home for which one looks forward to return to after a hard day of work, how well does one take good care of the bigger home – our planet earth- in which our small dwelling that we call as home is situated?
On this day of Dahwul Ardh, will you make a firm decision and resolve in utilizing this earth as a means for a good and eternally secure Hereafter?
Your responses to the above questions together with performing the devotions recommended by the Ahlul Bayt a.s. would really make the celebration of Dahwul Ardh an unforgettable occasion, a celebration of true faith and concern, and a celebration of thanking for this wonderful magnificent home; our planet earth.
Wa ma tawfiqi illa billah
Fazle Abbas Datoo
This email address is being protected from spambots. You need JavaScript enabled to view it.
Resident Alim
Wessex Shia Ithna Asheri Jamaat