How Can a Muslim Be Fully Aware of Satan’s Plan?
Answered by Shaykh Yusuf Weltch
Question: How can a Muslim be fully aware of Shaytan’s plan? Like avoiding the bad? What tricks does he use to make a person transgress?
Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Merciful and Compassionate
The fundamental component by which one can know the plots and plans of the Shaytan is having deep understanding of the Religion.
The Messenger of Allah (may Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “One person of deep understanding of religion is harder on Shaytan than a thousand worshippers.” [Ibn Majah]
Deep Understanding
Deep Understanding is the fruit of seeking sacred islamic knowledge. Knowledge of the teachings of Allah Most High and His beloved Messenger (may Allah bless him and give him peace).
The Messenger of Allah (may Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “Whoever travels a path, seeking therein (sacred) knowledge Allah will facilitate for him a path toward Paradise. And verily the Angels lay down their wings out of being pleased with seeking knowledge….” [Ibn Majah]
Practical Steps for Seeking Knowledge
Firstly, you should seek out a reliable teacher who has studied from a reliable institute or from reliable scholars. Their character should be in accordance to the Prophetic teachings.
Secondly, strive to learn from them the basics of the religion regarding faith, worship, and spirituality.
If you then desire to further your studies, consult your teachers regarding the way forward.
Shaytan’s Plot
– Shaytan’s goal is to drag everyone with him to the Hell-Fire.
Allah Most High says, “Verily Shaytan is your enemy, so take him as an enemy. He only calls his followers to become inhabitants of the Blazing Fire.” [Qur’an; 35:06]
– He has no control over anyone except that he incites them toward evil through his whispers.
Allah Most High tells us, “And Shaytan says, when the affair is decided: ‘Verily Allah promised you the promise of truth; I also promised you but I broke my promise to you. I did not have any authority over you except that I called you and you responded to me. Therefore, do not blame me, but blame yourselves. I cannot help you, nor can you help me…’” [Qur’an; 14:22]
– Shaytan deceives. He beautifies disobedience for people.
Allah Most High says, “…and Shaytan has made their deeds beautiful to them and he has barred them from the (right) way, so they are not guided.” [Qur’an; 27:24]
His Plot is Weak
Allah Most High says, “… surely Shaytan’s plot is weak.” [Qur’an; 04:76]
Summary
In summary, the greatest way to travel the straight path and protect one’s self from the plots of Shaytan is knowledge coupled with sincere practice. Thereafter, having a community and a teacher or mentor in which one can consult in unclear decisions.
Hope this helps
Allah knows best
[Shaykh] Yusuf Weltch
Checked and Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani
Shaykh Yusuf Weltch is a graduate from Tarim; a student of Habib Umar and other luminaries; and authorized teachers of the Qur’an and the Islamic sciences.
