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If you are inclined towards the invitation of religion, then nothing could be better because this inclination and action give purpose to your life. However, you need to understand the principles of undertaking this task with proper wisdom.
Firstly, understand that there are two stages in this endeavor. The first is that a person becomes a practicing Muslim. A practicing Muslim is one whose practical life reflects the presence of religion in some degree. When someone inquires about becoming a practicing Muslim, we advise them to start with two things. First, begin adhering to the obligatory acts, and second, abstain from the prohibited acts. We elaborate on avoiding prohibited acts by explaining that it is not just about refraining from earning through unlawful means but also avoiding actions like plotting against others, digging a pit for someone, infringing on someone’s rights, etc.
In this context, there is a specific emphasis on prayers. We stress that initially, you may not read the voluntary prayers (Sunnah). Only perform the obligatory prayers, and after complete adherence for six months, you can start incorporating the Sunnah prayers. This advice is given because people generally neglect prayers due to the Sunnah prayers. If there are only four, two, or three obligatory prayers, the risk is significantly reduced by 99%.
Similarly, when someone asks about the obligation of prayers, and what to do to become a practicing Muslim, we advise them to start with these two things: begin observing the obligations and abstain from the prohibited. Then, we explain that abstaining from the prohibited is not limited to refraining only from earning through unlawful means; it also includes actions like scheming against others, plotting, and infringing on someone’s rights. Therefore, one should also refrain from these actions.
The second stage is the level of piety (Taqwa). Many mistakenly believe that just being a practicing Muslim is sufficient. They feel a sense of deficiency and try to follow a certain path, often falling into the trap of becoming like Junaid Baghdadi from the very first day.
The person who abandons the Friday prayers may find themselves adopting the lifestyle of Junaid Baghdadi from the first day, creating an illusion that they will become successful soon. However, this path is challenging, and following religion is not everyone’s cup of tea.
This is why we do not open the doors of the path to spirituality on social media. Our efforts aim to present the model of becoming a practicing Muslim on these platforms. When someone talks about the obligation of piety, we tell them that the model of piety is available at a personal level, not on Facebook.
In the context of personal communication, we make sure to make the person aware of the details of this path and then direct them to a “Sheikh.” We recommend a Sheikh who is humble, avoids dealing with the rich, loves the poor, even if unknown. We have recommended such Sheikhs who neither know us nor engage in a formal allegiance. We send people to those who have true piety, suggesting them to spend time with them and act upon their advice.
The concept of piety is significant because it is attained not only through obligatory acts but also through voluntary worship. In this regard, we emphasize that the key role is played by the model of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). Walking on the path, interacting with friends, and making friends – all need to be in accordance with the way of the Prophet.
For the piety that we are aiming for, it is necessary not to undertake additional responsibilities that may become a burden. The model of piety is that if you want others not to deceive you, then you should not want to deceive others. If you want to avoid conspiracies, then you should refrain from plotting against others. If you want others not to gossip about you, then you should not gossip about others. This is the principle we follow to broaden the scope of undesirable behavior and avoid it.
In this process, take precautions and, particularly, keep your eyes open for tests. It is not necessary that the tests come, but when they come, they come in two forms. Either blessings overflow in life, usually seen as an increase in blessings. This needs to be understood well that blessings are only considered blessings when there is no decrease in your actions. If there is a decrease in your actions, understand that you are not facing a test, but you are failing in that test.
The second form of test is when difficulties arise. Difficulties may arise due to psychological or nervous weakness. It is crucial to have the capability to deal with difficulties, or else do not take the risk. Continue to be a practicing Muslim and broaden your circle. For example, sometimes perform voluntary prayers and fasts. Help a needy person during this time. If someone becomes a practicing Muslim, it is not an ordinary position. May Allah grant us all success. Amen, O Lord of the Worlds.