Nurturing Our Identities

The question addressed in this article is central to our understanding of ourselves and Muslims. It is the third in a series taken from the On Demand Course: Who Am I? Understanding Muslim Identity in Light of the Prophet’s Way.

Who we are governs the choices that we make. We have an embodiment of our purpose in life: The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace). 

Basis

In any situation, the response to “Who am I?” should be answered by, “I am a follower of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace).” We should do what we do because we are servants of Allah, following the way of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace). 

If we considered the implications of being a servant of Allah and a follower of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace), it would color our work life and social life, but also our engagement with broader society.

The kind of husband, wife, or parent is based on a question. “Who am I trying to model?” The answer to that should be, “The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace).” You may fall short, but that is the standard.

Counsel

At a personal level, one should have a daily point of connection with the Quran. Read and reflect. Let no day pass without reading something of the Quran, even if it be a little. Aim to understand it. 

Similarly, read and reflect on the Sunna of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace). That could even be one hadith a day. Consistent habits are transformative.

Abu Madian said, “If I was demanded with the rights of what it means to be true in the love of Allah, my point of entry is the intercessor whose intercession is accepted.” Allah bless him and give him peace. 

Socially, look carefully at the company you keep. Ensure that the company is good. 

Furthermore, connect with blessed gatherings. Gatherings of worship, knowledge, remembrance and where people gather to do good (religious or social).