Yoosuf of My Dreams (H/B)

The following is an explanation of some verses from the Mighty Book of Allāh. I wrote it because, while reciting the Noble Qur’ān, I pass by some verses and some of the treasures therein come to mind; thus, I wanted to illustrate those treasures. This goal was achieved—and all praises belong to Allāh—with the writing of this book; and while editing the book, I thought to write concerning some other verses as well.

This book contains speech on verses from chapters in the Qur’ān—all of the suwar which appear before al-Mufaṣṣal. Most of the verses cover one topic in that particular sūrah, and sometimes more than one topic is discussed in that sūrāh. As for al-Mufaṣṣal—which begins with Sūrah Qāf—the topics cover a range of 15 various subjects. I derived benefit in what I wrote from the books of tafsīr by Ibn Jarīr, al-Qurṭubī, Ibn Kathīr, ash-Shawkānī, and ash-Shinqīṭī (may Allāh have mercy upon them).

The Prophet peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, passed by a person reciting Surah Al – Kafirun and remarked, “He has been saved from shirk”. He passed by another reciting Surah Al – Ikhlas and remarked. Paradise has become obligatory for him.   Reported  by Muslim.

These two chapters have both been given the title Al-Ikhlas, or purity of faith, because they deal with the topic of Tawhid in all its various aspects. Al – Ikhlas concentrates on the pure, essential faith in Allah that all mankind is required to have. Al – Kafirun deals with purity of deed and disavowal of disbelief and paganism. Both chapters lay out the parameters of mans relationship with his/her lord and creator, as well as his/her relationship those around him/her.

Pure, unblemished monotheism combined with sincerity in belief and deed defines the relationship with Allah. Hi is one and only true God, unique, without peer, equal or opposite, and nothing is like on to him. He is the one who stands in need of nothing whereas everything is in dire need of him.

Maintaining the essential Muslim identity and character defines the relationship between the Muslim and his fellow man. The Muslim is unambiguous about his religion, truthful and upright in speech, deed and his dealings with those around him. Hi is proud of his faith and has unshakable conviction in it. He loves his lord, his Messenger and the Muslims and is loyal to them. Because of this, the dearest thing to him is his religion and he will not compromise it, pleasing Allah comes before pleasing the people.

The prophet would frequently recite these two chapters in prayer because of the commonality of their theme and to stress that success is achieved, in this life and the next, by internalising their message and living by it.