Table of Contents
The first strangers
Islam was revealed to the Prophet ﷺ in a world that was filled with injustice, polytheism and ignorance. The radiance of his teachings was strange among people who lived in complete darkness, and his early followers were subjected to severe ordeals. They faced constant oppression by their own people. Indeed, they were ” The Strangers” before they made Hijra (Immigration) to Madina.
It is narrated on the authority of Abu Huraira that the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) said: ” Islam initiated as something strange, and it would revert to its (old position) of being strange. so good tidings for the stranger. “
In this hadith, the Prophet ﷺ explains that Islam began as something strange due to the lack of followers, the spread of corruption and ignorance. Moreover, the Prophet ﷺ said that Islam will return to being strange as it began. Meaning, a practising Muslim will appear strange even though the number of Muslims are vast. It is stated that ignorance will spread again, and many people will return to the customs of ignorance as well as the practice of innovation. Few people will remain on the true teachings of the first generations. May Allah ﷻ protect us and our children, Ameen.
We are not alone
Muslims have never been alone. The earth we walk on and the numerous creations of Allah ﷻ that surround us are Muslims (Meaning in state of submission). The dependant human-being is an integral part of this vast and extended universe.
Therefore, your obedience to the Creator of the universe puts you in harmony with the rest of the creation. Recognising this will help you develop a connection with The All-Mighty as well as a connection with world around you. Whether it be righteous companions you find yourself in the company of, the animal kingdom or the beauty of nature. You are blessed and are surround with blessings even when facing life’s tests and trials.
أَلَمْ تَرَ أَنَّ اللَّهَ يَسْجُدُ لَهُۥ مَن فِى السَّمَـٰوَٰتِ وَمَن فِى الْأَرْضِ وَالشَّمْسُ وَالْقَمَرُ وَالنُّجُومُ وَالْجِبَالُ وَالشَّجَرُ وَالدَّوَآبُّ وَكَثِيرٌۭ مِّنَ النَّاسِ ۖ وَكَثِيرٌ حَقَّ عَلَيْهِ الْعَذَابُ ۗ وَمَن يُهِنِ اللَّهُ فَمَا لَهُۥ مِن مُّكْرِمٍ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ يَفْعَلُ مَا يَشَآءُ ۩ .(سورة الحج-18)
Do you not see that to Allah bow down ˹in submission˺1 all those in the heavens and all those on the earth, as well as the sun, the moon, the stars, the mountains, the trees, and ˹all˺ living beings, as well as many humans, while many are deserving of punishment. And whoever Allah disgraces, none can honour. Surely Allah does what He wills.
[22:18]
Finding purpose
Finding your purpose in life is one of those things that most people want. Whether we know it or not. As nice as it sounds, it can seem challenging to attain.
A personal sense of purpose gives meaning to life. Even when you face challenges and calamities, remembering your purpose gives you stability and a sense of direction. That’s why finding purpose is essential for creation.
As Muslims, Alhamdulillah we always refer back to the guidance, the Quran and the Sunnah of The Prophet ﷺ where we find all the answers.
قُلْ إِنَّ صَلَاتِى وَنُسُكِى وَمَحْيَاىَ وَمَمَاتِى لِلَّهِ رَبِّ ٱلْعَـٰلَمِينَ (سورة الانعام-162)
Say, “Surely my prayer, my worship, my life, and my death are all for Allah—Lord of all worlds.
[6:162]
وَمَا خَلَقْتُ الْجِنَّ وَالْإِنسَ إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُونِ (سورة الذاريات-57)
I did not create jinn and humans except to worship Me.
[51:57]
In a nutshell
Muslims are often perceived as strange, but upon reflection of our surroundings, we quickly realize we are not. In fact, the non-Muslims are the real strangers. You as a Muslim, are in harmony and upon the fitrah (natural disposition). Therefore, you are not that “strange” after-all.