Chapter 3: Shaytan and Worship of Shaytan

The concept of recognizing and negating Shaytan and Shaytanic Worship (Ibadat) to precede Allah’s true Worship (Ibadat) has been highlighted.
The order of the precedence is the same as in the Kalma (La ilaha ill-Allah).
The creation of Adam and Allah’s dialogue with angels and Iblis has been highlighted.
The earthly landing of Adam carrying Iblis (in the earthly form of Shaytan) as a built-in entity revisited along with consequential Shaytanic motivations, persuasions, and instigation.
The mechanism of Shaytanic strategy to influence the children of Adam individually and collectively highlighted.
The tools and mechanism of Shaytanic hijack of faiths and religions described.
The most significant Shaytanic hijack and failure highlighted.
Quranic verses alerting mankind against vicious Shaytanic instigation, sidetrack, and approaches have been highlighted.

Foreword

1. Shaytan: The Avowed Enemy

Allah commands faithfuls to adopt Sirat-e-Mustaqeem (Right path) identified below:

” Did I not enjoin on you, O children of Adam, that you should not worship Shaytan – verily he is your avowed enemy”:
” And that you should worship Me? This is the right path (Sirat-e-Mustaqeem)”:
(Yasin-36: 60-61)

Note:

Sirat-e-Mustaqeem is discarding the worship of Shaytan and submitting/surrendering to the worship of Allah (God) alone.
The important aspect which needs to be noted closely is the emphasis on discarding worship of Shaytan which precedes worship of Allah (Ibadat).
The order of priority is the same as in Allah’s very first commandment: La ilaha ill-Allah (There is no god but God). It is, therefore, necessary to discard false gods before accepting Allah’s (Oneness). In line with this order of priority, Shaytan and Worship of Shaytan is being discussed to start with.

1.1 Understanding Shaytan

In order to understand Shaytan and his modus operandi, under-mentioned key factors need to be defined. The same are supported by Quranic verses reproduced subsequently in the para (2).

1.1.1 The rebellious Iblis

When Allah declared His intent to appoint a vicegerent on earth, represented by Adam: angels stated that Your appointee on earth will make mischief and shed blood. How did the angels know this in advance? It is obvious that angels were referring to the species on earth at that time which included all kinds of mammals such as dinosaurs, reptiles, etc and subsequent emergence of two legged species sometimes referred to as ‘homo-erects’.
The period up to this stage, spread over millions of years, where life on earth evolved, was governed by instincts only. The same revolved around survival based on food search. The brutal killing of each other being the norm. The mechanism of evolution of Allah’s creations during this period could well be as outlined by the ‘Theory of Evolution’ hypothesised by Darwin and subsequent researchers.The era may consist of a period spread over millions of years extending up to (60,000 to 20,000 BC or so). This time-line coincides with the appearance of first sign of intelligence, typical of human beings among homo-erects. On this basis, their subsequent identification as (Homo-erectus subsequently better described as ‘Homo-Sapiens’) sounds reasonable.The same could be assumed to coincide with the landing of Adam on earth.
The real potential of Adam was unknown to the angels and their observation was based on conjecture.
Through Adam the angels became acquainted with the glory of the glorious beings. When Adam, at the command of Allah, stated the names, qualities and symbols of those highest beings: whose collective and comprehensive status can be termed as wisdom personified: the angels witnessed the glory of the infinite power and wisdom of the Lord that could create such perfect beings of the highest calibre, in substance as well as in style, like whom they did not know till then.
Satisfied with the proof of the absolute wisdom and mercy of Allah the angels
prostrated themselves before Adam, as commanded by Allah.
Iblis, Jinn, overcome with grief and despair, under the burden of arrogance (kabar), refused to come into the camp of knowledge and mercy surrounded by iman.
Iblis incorrectly based his superiority over Adam on the basis of himself being the product of fire as against Adam being a product of clay.
Iblis was ignorant of the essential quality of clay. The softness of clay makes it
adaptable to any shape or form as compared to a product of fire not having the qualities of adaptability. Iblis was also not blessed with the holy spirit by Allah. Thus he became the first product who resorted to conjecture and therefore was thrown out, eternally accursed disgraced.
Iblis challenged Allah (not Adam) by intending to prove his superiority over Adam. On this account Iblis’s request for a reprieve was granted by Allah. The limit for the same, till the day of judgement, was also granted by Allah. In line with His ‘Absolute Justice’, Iblis was also granted equal opportunity to prove his contention.

1.1.2 Journey from Iblis to Shaytan

The character destined to subvert mankind on earth is identified by the Holy Quran as Shaytan. It may, therefore, be concluded that Adam and Iblis belonging to the celestial realm were transformed, for their earthly presence, by Allah into their existing form of human being (Adam) and Shaytan respectively.

As Adam landed on earth in the form of ‘Homo-Sapien’ or a ‘human-being’, it appears that he carried a built-in representative within himself representing Iblis known as ‘Shaytan’. Accordingly, children of Adam, carry a dual personality within themselves with a capability to turn into an ideal human being or a devil. Since the decision remains in their own hands, accountability for the same is inescapable
Landing of Adam on earth, with Shaytan being his integral component, could have been multiple with respect to time place and location.
Whereas the builtin Shaytan has no control over personalities other than the parent body in which he thrives; physical Shaytans, individual and/or groups are, and had always been abound, all over the earth. Such entities constitute the bodies of human beings and/or jinns who have been completely subverted by individual Shaytanic instinct and have joined hands to turn into a physical collective force on the earth. Quranic verses identifying such individuals, groups and forces of Shaytan refer to the same.

1.2 Shaytan’s Fundamental Challenges

Shaytan’s fundamental challenges could be classified as below:

1.2.1 Subverting from Tawhid (Oneness) Covenant

Subverting children of Adam from the concept of Allah’s Oneness (Tawhid) which is singular latent (hidden) as well as manifest covenant and had been universally applicable for all times (past/present/future).
The knowledge of Allah’s unity (Oneness:Tawhid) lies in the original human nature (fitra).The prophets were sent to remind them of what they already know. To betray (Tawhid) is to betray human nature and even to leave the domain of human existence.
Each soul, arriving in this world, lands with a celestial promise with the Lord that it will exist only to fulfil the will of the Lord, and never shall rebel against His authority. This is known as the original or the latent (hidden) covenant.
(Iyyaka Na-Budu) which is an integral part of each compulsory prayer stands as a confirmation of the latent covenant with Allah.

1.2.2 Subverting from the Manifest Covenants

Subverting children of Adam from all other worldly covenants made with Allah during the era of various prophets and/or messengers may be grouped together in this category.

The manifest covenants are those which an individual or group agrees to be bound by, while embracing Allah’s religion. Thereby, being a part of the ‘Divine Order’ which in fact is a surrender to the will of Allah. Such covenants have been enforced by Allah through His prophets/messengers/ imams in different eras.

1.2.3 Consequential Subversion leading to open rebellion

Disregard to ‘Absolute Creator’ (Allah) and His ‘Divine Order’ results in overrunning of natural defence (Fitra), which leads to open rebellion against Allah. The same may be termed as a consequential subversion. It is caused by the failure to stick to latent as well manifest covenants with Allah.
Once Shaytan successfully achieves the objective of subverting faithfuls with regard to latent and manifest covenants, his job gets simpler. Thereafter, individuals could be easily persuaded by the builtin Shaytan to give priority to their own selves with regard to their routines. Included in the list would be disregard to all kinds or norms, including but not limited to: religious, legal, fiscal, social, cultural and humanitarian aspects: thereby inculcating rebellious lifestyle in the day to day affairs.

1.3 Shaytanic Highway:

The disruption of Allah’s ‘Divine Order’ had always been the target of Shaytanic subversion. In order to achieve his objectives, he deployed lethal arsenal inclusive of:

1.3.1 Shaytanic Motivation to Override Intrinsic Defence (Fitra)

The basic motivation promoted by Shaytan revolves around self or ‘ME’ alone. The children of Adam had always been fascinated by the irrepressible desire for acquisition of superiority over others. In the language of Sub-Continental rural livelihood the same could be summarised by the proverbial Urdu ‘3-Zs’ (Zar, Zameen and Zun) standing respectively for wealth, land and woman..The Shaytanic wish list of motivational factors kept on enlarging with the passage of the time.
Overriding (Fitra), as always. continues to be the key Shaytanic target. Because, the instinct (Fitra) leads to surrender to Allah. The act of total surrender opens the door for the unconditional compliance with the ‘Divine Order’, a fatal blow to the Shaytanic motivation.
The ‘Divine Order’ calls for submission to ‘HE’ alone who is none else but Allah. Everything in the Universe belongs to Him. The individual possessions are temporary, blessed by Him as a ‘Trust’, for which the individuals stand accountable.
The concept further specifies, timeless (without particular reference to a specific era) declaration, which Shaytan is up against as below:

” Say (O Muhammad): We believe in Allah and what has been sent down to us , and has been sent down to Ibrahim, and Ismail, and Ishaque, and Yaqub, and the tribes, and what was given (books) to Musa, and Isa, and the prophets from their Lord, we make no difference between any of them and we have surrendered to Him (we are Muslims)”:
(Imran-3: 84)

” Say: Verily my prayer and my sacrifice, my life and my death (all of them) are of Allah, the Lord of the worlds”:
(An-am-6:163)

Accordingly, the chosen course (Shaytanic motivation as against complete submission to Allah preached by all prophets/messengers, imams alike) is destined to lead to eternal fire (Hell) or bliss (Paradise) respectively. In order to prevail, Shaytan finds ways to hide the above concepts (Imran-3: 84: Anam-6: 163) behind the readily available facade of lusts of life.

1.3.2 Shaytanic Subversion Mechanisms

Prevailing (fitra) within individual entities by intrinsic Shaytanic motivations
Acquiring services of already taken over rulers, hypocrites, priests, religious leaders, men of knowledge and wealth, philosophers, poets, scientists and others to glorify Shaytanic motivations.
Work through a special task force consisting of hypocrites (Munafiqun). The hypocritical approach had often been a successful Shaytanic tool.
Historically, pseudo religious faiths inculcated through hypocrites (munafiqun), had been far more successful, in meeting Shaytanic targets, as compared to frontal assaults.

1.3.3 Beware! The Ultimate Shaytanic Target needs to be Encountered

Grouping together of individual converts to form formidable physical Shaytanic forces. Their target being acquisition of control over tribes, sects, faiths, countries and ultimately the whole world if left unchecked.
Putting the remaining minority of genuine faithfuls, to all kinds of physical, mental and emotional stress and distress phenomenon: keeping them divided and in complete disarray: lacking in true knowledge and right tools/skills in disciplines that matter. Included therein, access to modern sciences and technology, all in the name of religion. The combined effect of these, and the other similar factors, end up in lack of ability among genuine faithfuls, to have firm control over centers of power. The entire cycle may be attributed to the disregard of Allah’s command by the faithfuls to establish a formidable power base (Battle readiness):

” And prepare against them whatever force (arms) and well-bred horses (cavalry) (you can muster), that thereby you may frighten the enemy of Allah and your enemy, and others beside them, whom you do not know, (but) Allah knows them. And whatever things you spend in Allah’s way will be paid back to you in full, and you shall not be dealt with unjustly”
(Anfal-8: 60)

While Shaytan had successfully diverted the attention of the genuine faithfuls, there is no doubt that the USA, a component of the opposite camp, is the first existing country following this doctrine (Anfal-8: 60)

The Shaytanic plan outlined above had been at work in the era of all prophets, messengers, imams including that of the holy Prophet.
Historically, If and when Shaytanic forces found the outright disregard of ‘Divine Rule’ inconvenient, they grabbed their objectives through rule by hypocrites in the name of pseudo ‘Divine Rule’.
The Shaytanic successes had been widespread with the exception of brief pauses during the direct rule of some of the prophets, messengers, imams.

1.4 The Most Significant Shaytanic Failure

The reverses faced by the Shaytanic forces at Karbala at the hands of Hussain Ibna Ali and associates carry immense significance. The episode created everlasting builtin defence. Thereby thwarting attempts, direct or indirect, against the ‘Divine Order’ or under any pseudo concepts.

2. Quranic Verses Exposing Shaytan and his acts

Included in this section (para 2) are the verses which specifically identify Shaytan and Shaytanic character. Sub-headings are the subject index which spells out the context for such occurrences:

2.1 The Origin of man and Shaytan(Jinn): (Hijr-15: 26-27)

” We certainly created man from sounding clay, from black mud moulded into shape”
” And Jinn, We created before, from the hot fire”:
(Hijr-15: 26 & 27)

Note:

(i) The origin of the accursed (Iblis) the earthly Shaytan
(ii) and mankind’s origin.

2.2 Iblis (Shaytan)-The driven away, accursed: (Baqarah-2: 34: Hijr-15: 28-38: Sad-38: 71-74 & 77: Araf-7: 12-15)

” And (remember) when your Lord said to the angels: Verily I shall create man, from sounding clay, from black mud moulded into shape”
(Hijr-15: 28)

” Remember when your Lord said to the angels: Verily I am going to create man from clay”
” And when I have made him and breathed into it My spirit, fall before him prostrate” :
(Sad-38: 71 & 72)

” So when I complete him and breathe My spirit into him you should fall down in prostration before him”
(Hijr-15: 29)

” And when, We said to the angels: Prostrate to Adam! They all prostrated save Iblis. He refused and he was insolent with pride, and so he became one of the disbelievers”
(Baqarah-2: 34)

” So the angels prostrated themselves altogether”
(Hijr-15: 30)

“Then the angels prostrated themselves, all of them together”
(Sad-38: 73)

” Except Iblis – he refused to be among those who prostrated themselves (before Adam)”
(Hijr-15: 31)

” Except Iblis. He was filled with pride and became one of those who disbelieve”
(Sad-38: 74)

” (Allah) said: O Iblis ! What ails you that you are not among those who prostrated themselves (before Adam)?”
(Hijr-15: 32)

” (Iblis) said: I am not one to prostrate myself before human being whom you have created from sounding clay, from black mud moulded into shape”
(Hijr-15: 33)

” Allah said: ‘ What prevented you that you did not prostrate yourself when I commanded you? ‘ Iblis said ‘ I am better than he, You created me from fire while You created him from clay’.” :
(Araf-7: 12)

” (Allah) said: Then get out from here because you are surely driven away, accursed”:
(Hijr-15: 34)

” Allah said: then go from here, for verily you are accursed”
(Sad-38: 77)

” (Allah) said: ‘Get you down from this. It is not for you to show pride here, so get out, verily you are those of despised”
(Araf-7: 13)

” Verily the curse will be upon you till the day of judgement”
(Hijr-15: 35)

” (Iblis ) said: My Lord ! Give me respite till the day when they are raised”
(Hijr-15: 36)

” (Iblis) said : ‘ Grant me respite till the day they are raised up”
(Araf-7: 14)

” (Allah) said: Verily you are of those who are given time”
(Araf-7: 15)

” (Allah) said: Then you are of those who are given respite”
(Hijr-15: 37)

” Till the day whose time is appointed”
(Hijr-15: 38)

2.3 Seeking refuge in Allah from the accursed Shaytan: (Nahl-16: 98)

” When you recite Quran, seek refuge in Allah from Shaytan the accursed”
(Nahl-16: 98)

2.4 Limitations of Shaytanic Authority: (Nahl-16: 99: Bani-Israil-17: 65: Hijr-15: 40)

” Verily he has no authority over those who believe and put their trust in their Lord”
(Nahl-16: 99)

” Verily, (as for) My servants, you shall not have any authority over them, and your Lord suffices as their guardian”
(Bani-Israil-17: 65)

” Except the sincerely devoted servants of Yours from among them”
(Hijr-15: 40 & 41)

Note:

(i) Who are the ‘Thoroughly Purified’? Allah’s servants on whom Shaytan has no authority being infallible.
(ii) Even Iblis acknowledged the infallibility of the thoroughly purified by Allah Himself: (Ahzab-33: 33)

” (Allah) said: This is the straight path that leads to Me”
(Hijr-15: 41)

Note:

(i) Allah unequivocally declares the path of thoroughly purified (Ahzab-33: 33) to be the ‘Straight Path’.
(ii) Allah’s Confirmation of the path of the ‘Thoroughly Purified’ being the straight path to whom ‘Anamta Alayhim’ (Fatihah-01: 07) & ‘Urwatul Wuthqa’ (Baqarah-2: 256) are applicable.

2.4.1 Source of Shaytanic Power & Pre-Adam Existence of the Thoroughly Purified: (Sad-38: 82-84)

> ” He (Shaytan) said: Then by Your (Allah’s) power, I will certainly beguile, everyone,>>>”
(Sad-38: 82)

>>> ” Save those of Your servants among them who have been freed (from sins altogether)”
(Sad-38: 83)

> ” (Allah) said: Then it is the truth, and what I say is the truth”
(Sad-38: 84)

Note:

(i) Shaytan’ recognition that whatever he does is based on the capabilities and power delegated to him by Allah.

(ii) Shaytan’s categoric recognition of the ‘thoroughly purified’ Ahlul Bayt (Ahzab-33: 33)

(iii) Allah’s confirmation of the existence of the ‘thoroughly purified’ (Ahzab-33: 33) even before the creation of Adam.

2.5 Those Vulnerable to Shaytanic Instigation: (Nisa-4: 120 &1 21: Nahl-16: 63 & 100: Bani-Israil-17: 63 & 64)

” His authority is only over those who befriend him and those who associate others with Him’
(Nahl-16: 100)

” By Allah, We sent (messengers) to peoples before you, but Shaytan made their deeds fair-seeming to them, so he is their guardian today, and there shall be a grievous chastisement for them”
(Nahl-16: 63)

” Allah said : Go you away; then whosoever of them follows you, verily hell is your recompense, a complete recompense”
(Bani-Isaril-17: 63)

” He (Shaytan) makes (false) promises, and stirs up (vain) desires in them; and Shaytan promises nothing but deception”
(Nisa-4: 120)

” For such, their abode shall be hell, and they shall find no escape therefrom”
(Nisa-4: 121)

” Disrupt whomsoever of them you can with your voice, and summon, and summon against them your cavalry and infantry; and share their riches and children with them, and make promises to them. But Shaytan promises them nothing but deceit”
(Bani-Israil-17: 64)

2.6 Iblis a jinn and his progeny: (Kahf-18: 50: Araf-7: 18)

” When We said to angels: Fall prostrate before Adam, then they fell prostrate, all save Iblis. He was of the jinn, and he transgressed the command of his Lord. What! Will you then take him and his progeny as friends instead of Me? They are your enemies. Evil would be the exchange for unjust”
(Kahf-18: 50)

” Allah said : Get out of this, despised, driven away. Whosoever of them follows you, certainly I will fill hell with you all”
(Araf-7: 18)

2.7 Shaytanic interference in Messages Conveyed by Messengers: (Hajj-22: 52-53)

” We did not send before you (O Muhammad) any messenger or prophet, but when he desired (to recite the message) Shaytan did cast (interpolation) in his desire (recitation) (to create confusion); but Allah annuls that which Shaytan casts, then Allah establishes His signs – verily Allah is all-knowing, all-wise -”
(Hajj-22: 52)

” So that he may make that which Shaytan casts a trial for those in whose hearts is disease, and for those whose hearts are hard. Verily the unjust are in a schism far (from the truth)”
(Hajj-22: 53)

2.8 Iblis’ Challenge to Allah: (Araf-7:16-17: Nisa-4: 118: Bani-Israil-17: 62)

” Iblis said: Do you see this one whom You honoured above me? If You give me respite till the day of judgement , I will bring his progeny under my sway except a few”:
(Bani-Israil-17: 62)

” (Iblis) said: Since you have sent me astray, surely I shall lie in wait for them on your straight path”
(Araf-7: 16)

” Then, surely, I will come upon them from the front and behind, right and left, and You will not find most of them thankful”
(Araf-7: 17)

” Whom Allah has cursed; and he (Shaytan) said: Most certainly, I will take of Your servants an allotted share”
(Nisa-4: 118)

Note:

(i) Allotted share refers to equal opportunity provided to him by Allah to subvert children of Adam.
(ii) Since Iblis has challenged Allah in proving his superiority over the Children of Adam, Allah granted him capability to prove his contention without strings. The granted reprieve constitutes an undeniable demonstration of His ‘Absolute Justice”.
(iii) Children of Adam were also provided builtin defence (fitra) giving them equal opportunity to defend themselves against Shaytan {refer to para (2.3&2.4) above}

2.9 Allah’s Dialogue with (Angels & Iblis) at Creation of Adam: (Baqarah-2: 30-34: Araf-7: 10 & 11)

“(O Muhammad) when your Lord said to the angels: Verily I am going to appoint a vicegerent in the earth. They said: Will You (O our Lord) place one in it who will make mischief and shed blood, while we celebrate Your praise and extol Your holiness? He said: Verily, I know what you do not know”
(Baqarah-2: 30)

Note

(i) How did the angles deciphered the consequences of Adam’s appointment in advance? It is obvious that angels were comparing Adam with the species on earth at that time involved in their indicated violent activities. The real potential of Adam was unknown to them and their observation was based on conjecture.

” And He taught Adam the names, all of them, and then set them before the angels and said: Tell me the names of these if you are truthful”
(Baqarah-2: 31)

” They said: Glory be to You (O Lord)! We have no knowledge save what You have taught us. Verily You (alone) are all knowing, all wise”
(Baqarah-2: 32)

” He said: O Adam! inform them of their names: and when he had informed them of their names, He, (the Lord) said: Did I not say to you that verily I know the secrets of the heavens and the earth and I know that which you declare and that which you conceal”?
(Baqarah-2: 33)

Note:

(i) The Glorious Names?
(ii) On the authority of the Holy Prophet (Durr Mansur: Jalaluddun Sayuti): The objects shown to the angels were five lights. Allah informed the angels pointing to each of the lights respectively (Muhammad, Ali, Fatima, Hasan and Hussain). ‘O angels! it is in love of these five that I have created the universe’.
(iii) It becomes a logical conclusion that since Allah willed these five lights of glory to be manifested through Adam, and through these lights Allah’s light had been destined to be manifested.
(iv) As Allah is aware of all the unseen in the universe He knew that the angels secretly thought themselves to be more deserving than Adam to be chosen as Allah’s Khalifa. After seeing the glory of the five lights, endowed in the seed of Adam , angels accepted their ignorance and submitted to Allah’s decision.

” And when, We said to the angels: Prostrate to Adam! They all prostrated save Iblis. He refused and he was insolent with pride, and so he became one of the disbelievers”
(Baqarah-2: 34)

” And indeed We have settled you on the earth, and We have made therein the means of your livelihood. Little it is that you give thanks”
(Araf-7: 10)

” Verily We created you, then We fashioned you, then We said to the angels, ‘ Prostrate yourself to Adam.’ They all fell prostrate except Iblis, he was not of those who made prostration”
(Araf-7: 11)

Note:

(i) The potential of Adam! Beyond the vision of Angels?
(ii) (Ma-ayish: Araf-7: 10) stands for the means for the fulfilment of life . In addition to all the material things necessary to sustain life, it also refers to all those powers and faculties which help man to rise to a higher plane to prepare for his spiritual as well as material (worldly) potential and destiny, on account of which the angels were asked to prostrate themselves before Adam.
(iii) The physical demonstration of ultimate spiritual potential was put up by the sacrifice of Hussain ibna Ali and his associates at Karbala.
(iv) As regards potential with respect to ingenuity and ability to understand and innovate by discovering Allah’s laws of creation and destiny in respect of children of Adams, their curve of learning explains it all. With the hind sight in mind, the demonstrated destructive and constructive aspects of the same, to mention only a few, include advances in respect of all branches of science and engineering; skills and technologies; medical and healthcare sciences carrying ability of saving millions of lives with competence and ease; aviation and aerospace; communication and telecommunication; astronomy;(Computers&IT)/robotics/space /rocketry; advances in all branches of humanities; excellence in governance, management, fiscal and corporate technologies; nuclear technology inclusive of its destructive as well constructive potential; warfare technology with potential to destroy entire generation with a click; mitigation of human sufferings and losses as a result of natural calamities (earthquake/volcanic eruptions/hurricanes/floods, etc) through effective predictive and management capabilities using modern ‘Disaster Management’ tools; and many more to come in future was certainly beyond the vision of angels.

2.10 Allah Suffices as Guardian of the Faithfuls: (Bani-Israil-17: 65)

Verily, (as for) My servants, you shall not have any authority over them, and your Lord suffices as their guardian”
(Bani-Israil-17: 65)

2.11 Shaytanic Persuasions: (Taha-20: 120: Fatir-35: 6: Bani-Israil-17: 53)

” But Shaytan whispered to him, saying: O Adam, shall I direct you to the tree of eternity and a kingdom that never decays”
(Taha-20: 120)

” Verily Shaytan is your open enemy, so hold him as foe. He only invites his party so that they may become the dwellers of the flaming fire”
(Fatir-35: 6)

” Say (O Muhammad) to My servants that they should (only) say that which is best. Verily Shaytan sows dissension among them. Verily Shaytan is an open enemy of man”
(Bani-Israil-17: 53)

Note:

(i) The builtin Shaytan, integral component of human being’s dual personality’ is responsible for individual persuasions towards acts of sinning.
(ii) The individuals completely taken over by Shaytan constitute a group referred to above as ‘his party’.

2.12 Shaytan: An Open Enemy: (Nahl-16: 63: Baqarah-2: 168 & 208: Anam-6: 143: Yusuf-12: 05: Maryam-19: 44: Hajj-22: 03)

” By Allah, We sent (messengers) to peoples before you, but Shaytan made their deeds fair-seeming to them, so he is their guardian today, and there shall be a grievous chastisement for them”
(Nahl-16: 63)

” O men ! Eat the lawful and good things out of what is in the earth, and do not follow the footsteps of Shaytan; verily he is your open enemy”
(Baqarah-2: 168)

” O you who believe ! Enter into submission one and all, and do not follow the footsteps of Shaytan; verily, he is your open enemy”
(Baqarah-2: 208)

” And of the cattle, some are the beasts of burden, and some too low to carry burdens. Eat what Allah provides you with, and do not follow the footsteps of Shaytan, verily, he is your open enemy”
(An-am-6: 143)

” O my father, do not worship Shaytan. Verily Shaytan was disobedient to Arrahman”
(Maryam-19: 44)

” Among the people there is he who disputes about Allah without knowledge, and follows every Shaytanic (rebellious) devil”
(Hajj-22: 03)

” He said: O my son ! (Beware) Do not relate your dream to your brothers, lest they plot a plot against you. Verily Shaytan is an avowed enemy to man”
(Yusuf-12: 05)

2.13 (Shirk)-Lethal Shaytanic tool of Subversion: (Baqarah-2: 22: Nisa-4: 116: Anam-6: 152 & 164)

” Verily, Allah does not forgive that partners should be associated with Him, but He forgives all save this to whom He pleases; and whoso associates partners with Allah has indeed strayed far, far away (from the right path)”
(Nisa-4: 116)

“Who made the earth a bed (resting place), the sky a canopy, and sends down rain from the sky, and thereby produces fruits for your sustenance – so do not set-up equals to Allah while you know”
(Baqarah-2: 22)

” Say (O Muhammad): Come ! I will recite (to) you what your Lord forbidden to you: that you do not associate anything with Him>>>”
(An-am-6: 152)

” He has no associate, and so am I commanded, I am the first of the Muslims (those who submit to Allah)”
(Anam-6: 164)

Note:

(i) (SHIRK) Associating partners with Allah is unforgivable crime

2.14 Shaytan in the garb of female deities: (Nisa-4: 117)

” They invoke besides Him only female deities, and they invoke none else than Shaytan, the persistent rebel”
(Nisa-4: 117)

Note:

(i) Inatha (females) refers to the historical motive behind idolatry. In primitive ages man could not understand any productive action except sexual relationships. Shaytan, being true to himself, availed the opportunity to transpire that their idols were daughters of God. The cult of goddesses had been almost universally supported by Shaytanic insinuation linked with maternity.

2.15 Duality Concept exploited by Shaytan: (Dhariyat-51: 49: Yasin-36: 36)

” And We created pairs of everything that you may contemplate”
(Dhariyat-51: 49)

” Glory be to Him who created pairs of everything that grows from the earth, and out of themselves, and of that which they do not know”
(Yasin-36: 36)

Note:

(i) The ‘Duality’ of two opposite forces: Allah’s scientific wonder which leaves much to be understood in spite of all the modern scientific discoveries.
(ii) The ‘Duality’ of the two opposite forces, which is an integral component of Allah’s creation, has scientific reasons behind it. Part of the universal laws in this regard are well explained by modern science, whereas, much remains to be discovered. The concept of female deities as goddesses is, therefore, nothing but an absurd concept inculcated by the accursed Shaytan
(iii) The constitution of the material world and the various kinds of energies functioning in the universe are working in pairs of opposite kinds. The factor of sex is active in human, animal, vegetable life and in other forms of activity, manifest and hidden. The mystery of sex runs through all creations.

2.16 Covenants with Allah being ongoing Shaytanic target: (Maidah-5: 01 & 07)

” O you believe! Fulfil the contracts made by you>>>”
(Maidah-5: 01)

” And remember the bounties of Allah on you, and His covenant by which He has bound you when you said: We have heard (Your commandment) and we have obeyed (it sincerely): and fear Allah; verily, Allah knows whatever is (hidden) in your breast (hearts)“
(Maidah-5: 07)

Note:

(i) Included in the covenants with Allah, the fundamental and singular covenant, is binding oneself to (Tawheed or Oneness) of Allah.This covenant being latent (pertaining to celestial realm) as well as manifest, stands out as the unshakeable pillar of the faith. Accordingly, absolute binding, without any strings, to the same is consistent with respect to teachings of all prophets, messengers, imams, guides alike.
(ii) The manifest covenants are those made by the Children of Adam during the tenures of various messengers, prophets accepting the compliance with the decrees/commands imposed by Allah from time to time.
(iii) The referred manifest covenants include the one by faithfuls when they collectively bound themselves before Allah through the Holy Prophet at Ghadir Khum (Ma-idah-5:3 & 67) and confirmed as above (Maidah-5: 07).

2.17 Shaytanic prompted Violation of Covenants & Consequences: (Baqarah-2: 27: Rad-13: 20, 21 & 25)

” (Those) who violate the covenant of Allah after its confirmation, and cut as under that which Allah commands to be joined , and make mischief in the land are losers”
(Baqarah-2: 27)

” Those who fulfil their covenant with Allah and do not break their pledge”
(Rad 13: 20)

” And those who keep together (enjoin) what Allah has commanded to be held together (enjoined) and fear their Lord and dread the terrible reckoning”
(Rad-13: 21)

” And those who break the covenant (made) with Allah after it is pledged, and cut asunder what Allah has commanded to be joined, and make mischief in the land; theirs shall be the curse and theirs shall be the evil abode”:
(Rad-13: 25)

2.18 The Forbidden Shaytanic Acts

” Say (O Muhammad): Come! ‘ I will recite (to) you what your Lord forbidden to you: that you do not associate anything with Him, and be good to your parents, and do not slay your children for (fear of) poverty ‘. We provide for you and for them. ‘ And do not draw near to shameful deeds, whether open or hidden, and do not take a life which Allah has forbidden, save in the course of justice’ : This He enjoins on you, so that you may understand”:
(An-am-6: 152)

” And do not approach (meddle with) the property of an orphan, save (manage it) in the the best manner, till he reaches maturity, Give full measure and full weight in justice. ‘ We do not task a soul except according to its capacity ‘. And when you speak, be just even though it be against a kinsman; And fulfil Allah’s covenant. This He enjoins on you, so that you may be mindful”
(An-am-6: 153)

” And (He commands) that: verily this is My path, straight, so follow it, and do not follow (other) ways; for they will deviate you from His path. This He enjoins on you, so that you may safeguard yourself (against evil) with full awareness of divine laws”
(An-am-6-154)

” Say: Verily my Lord has forbidden only shameful deeds, whether apparent or concealed, and sin and unjust oppression, and associating others with Allah, for which no authority has been sent down, and saying things about Allah of which you have no knowledge”
(Araf-7: 33)

” Give to the near of kin his (her) dues, and also to the needy and wayfarer, and do not squander wastefully”
(Bani-Israil-17: 26)

Note:

(i) Next of Kin refers to Ahl ul Bayt. The Holy Prophet gave the Garden of Fadak to Bibi Fatima as soon as this Aayat was revealed.

” (Because) the squanders are indeed the brothers of the devils; Shaytan is ever ungrateful to his Lord”
(Bani-Israil-17: 27)

2.19 Intoxicants, Games of Chance & Other Associated Shaytanic Acts: (Maidah-5: 90 & 91: Anam-6: 32)

” O you who believe ! intoxicants and games of chance, (dedication of ) stones (for idol-worship), and (divination by) arrows, are an abomination, a handiwork of Shaytan, so keep away from them, so that you may be successful”:
(Ma-idah-5: 90)

” Shaytan only desires, by means of intoxicants and gambling, to create enmity and hatred among you, and to turn you aside from remembering of Allah and from prayer. Will you then not abstain (from them)?”
(Ma-idah-5: 91)

” The life of this world is nothing but a frolic and frivolity, and certainly the abode of the hereafter is the best for those who safeguard themselves (against evil) with full awareness of divine laws. Do you not then understand?”
(An-am-6: 32)

2. 20 Command to keep away from vain talks about Allah’s Signs: (An-am-6: 68-69)

” And when you see those engaged in vain talk about Our signs, keep away from them until they engage in talking about some other things. And if Shaytan causes you to forget (this), then do not sit after the recollection, with the unjust people”
(Anam-6: 68)

” Those who safeguard themselves (against evil) with full awareness of divine laws are not accountable for them, but should remind them, so that they (too) may safeguard themselves against evil”
(Anam-6: 69)

2.21 Golden Rules to Thwart Shaytan: (Araf-7: 200-202)

” Adopt tolerance, enjoin good and turn away from the ignorant”
(Araf-7: 199)

” And if a prompting from Shaytan instigates you (to evil), then seek refuge with Allah. Verily He is all-hearing, all knowing”
(Araf-7: 200)

” Verily those who safeguard themselves (against evil) with full awareness of divine laws, when evil thought from Shaytan assails them, they remember (Allah) and lo ! they see (light)”
(Araf-7: 201)

” And their brethren plunge them deeper in error, so they do not slacken their efforts”
(Araf-7: 202)

2.22 Shaytan’s Plan & Strategy: (Anfal-8: 48: Nisa-4: 38,76,119 & 120: Imran-3: 175)

“And (remember) when Shaytan made their deeds look alluring to them, and said: None among men, shall prevail over you today, while I am your protector. But when the two parties came in sight of one another, he turned on his heels, and said: Verily I am not with you, certainly I see what you do not see, surely I fear Allah. Verily Allah is severe in punishment”
(Anfal-8: 48)

Note:

(i) Context: Battle of Badar

” And surely I will lead them astray, and surely I will create in them (vain) desire, and surely I will command to slit the ears of cattle, and surely I will command them to change Allah’s creation. Therefore whoso takes Shaytan as his guardian besides Allah indeed suffers a manifest loss”
(Nisa-4: 119)

Note:

(i) slit ears of cattle refers to old Arab custom of slitting ears of the animal in the name of their gods and goddesses so that those animals could not be used for useful purposes.

” It is only Shaytan who frightens you of his friends (against supporting the Holy Prophet). Do not fear them, but fear Me, if you are (true) believers”:
(Imran-3: 175)

” (Nor) those who spend their property (in charity) to be seen of men, and do not believe in Allah, and in the last day, and he who takes Shaytan for companion-what an evil companion he is”!
(Nisa-4: 38)

” Those who believe fight in the way of Allah, and those who disbelieve fight in the way of Shaytan, so fight against the friends of Shaytan; verily Shaytan’s strategy is weak”:
(Nisa-4: 76)

” He (Shaytan) makes false promises, and stirs-up vain desires in them; and Shaytan promises nothing but deception”
(Nisa-4: 120)

Note:

(i) If Shaytan cannot trap someone into sinning, he attempts to keep him busy with trivial acts with no benefit. instead of using time wisely, fulfilling priorities and reaching high goals.
(ii) It needs to be remembered that under Allah’s ‘Divine Order’ every act is a ‘Worship’ or a ‘Sin’: there is nothing in between.

2.23 Shaytan & Disbelievers on the Day of the Judgement: (Ibrahim-14: 21 & 22)

” They shall come forth unto Allah altogether; then the weak shall say to those who were arrogant: Verily we were your followers, so can you not avert from us chastisement of Allah in any way? They will say: If Allah has guided us, we too would have guided you. (Now) it is same for us whether we implore impatiently or bear (the consequences) patiently – there is no way of escape for us”
(Ibrahim-14: 21)

” When the matter will be decided Shaytan shall say: Verily Allah promised you a promise of truth, and I also promised you but failed to keep (my promise) to you; and I had no authority over you, however I called you and you answered me; so do not blame me , but blame yourself. I cannot call you for help, neither can you call me for help. Verily, I disbelieved in your associating me with Allah aforetime . Surely the unjust shall have a painful chastisement”
(Ibrahim-14: 22)

2.24 The Willing Surrender to Allah: (Imran-3: 83)

” Do they seek other than religion of Allah, when unto Him submits whosoever is in the heavens and the earth, willingly or unwillingly? And unto Him they shall be returned”
(Imran-3: 83)

2.25 Allah’s Warnings: (Anam-6: 32,42-43&105: Maidah-5: 100)

” Indeed (clear) proofs from you Lord have come to you; so whoso sees, it is for ( the good of) his own soul; And whoso is (wilfully) blind is blind to his own hurt. (Say): I am not a keeper over you”
(An-am-6: 105)

” And most certainly We sent (messengers) to many a people before you, then, We seized them in distress and adversity, so that they might humble themselves”:
(An-am-6: 42)

” Why then, when Our punishment came upon them, did they not humble themselves? But their hearts were hardened, and Shaytan made fair -seeming to them what they did”:
(An-am-6: 43)

” The life of this world is nothing but a frolic and frivolity, and certainly the abode of the hereafter is the best for those who safeguard themselves (against evil) with full awareness of divine laws. Do you not then understand?”
(An-am-6: 32)

” Say (O Muhammad): The bad and good are not equal, even though the abundance of bad may enchant you: So fear Allah O you men of understanding, that you may haply find success”
(Ma-idah-5: 100)

2.26. How delicate is the thread of Life? (Anam-4: 60)

” It is He who takes you away at night (in sleep), and He who knows what you do in the day, then he raises you therein, that the fixed term (of life) be fulfilled; then to Him is your (ultimate) return, then He will declare to what you used to do”:
(An-am: 60)

2.27 Shaytanic Worship: Hell the Assured Destination: (Anam-6: 70)

” Then they are returned to Allah, their Lord-master, the only reality. Beware! His indeed is the judgement, and He is the most swift of the reckoners”
(An-am-6: 62)

” And leave those who have taken their religion as a play and vain sport and whom the (temporal) life of this world has beguiled. Admonish them with this (Quran) lest a soul be destroyed by what it has earned. For it there shall be no protector or intercessor besides Allah, and if it seeks to give every compensation, it shall not be accepted from it; these are they who are destroyed by what they had earned. For them shall be a drink of boiling water and a painful chastisement for what they used to disbelieve”
(An-am-6: 70)

3. Discussion

3.1 Negation of all associated deities

In order to surrender to Allah, it is necessary to negate any and all associated deities. That is what the rendering of the first part of the (Kalmah) leading to acceptance of faith (La ilaha illa-Allah) means. Equally important is the rejection of Shaytan, and his inspired motivations, to achieve a nearness to Allah. While turning toward a call to Allah successfully, it must be ensured that the desired act is free from Shaytanic instigations. Allah’s Worship (Ibadat), therefore, must be free of any and all types of Shaytanic persuasions which constitute Worship (Ibadat) of Shaytan.

3.2 Have no part in denial of ‘Divine’ existence

Shaytan’s targets consist of creating doubts concerning Allah’s existence, unity and His ‘Divine Order’. The motivation for the individuals, for doing so, lies in the desire to fulfil personal lust for superiority over others in any or all forms. Included therein, are a combination of superficial worldly indicators such as wealth, status, hold on power, family, intellectual superiority, etc.

3.3 Understand Shaytanic Hijackings

It is appropriate to classify all Shaytanic takeovers as hijacks. No other alternative mechanism or motivation, to cause such happenings, is identifiable.

3.4 Surrender to Allah

In complete contrast to all the Shaytanic temptations, lies the complete surrender to Allah seeking the true success in this world and the hereafter
achievable only through Allah’s devoted Worship (Ibadat).

3.5 Have no share of ‘Denial of the Covenants’ with Allah

(i) Denial of latent and declared covenant with Allah (Tawhid or Oneness) stands out as the foremost Shaytanic target. Utmost care is required to keep away from (Shirk) in any and all forms.
(ii) Denial of manifest covenants continued unabated in the era of various messengers including the Holy Prophet. The book (Quran) is an assured recourse to track any or all avenues which lead to such denials.

3.6 Understand Shaytanic Hijacks and Associated Mechanism:

(i) The Shaytanic individual converts find it convenient to join hands to form large groups sharing control over the executive and the intellectual centers of power.
(ii) All important part in the achievement of such objectives is always played by the religious hypocrites and intellectual converts. These categories have been found to be able to extract favorable responses from the large population segments.
(iii) The resultant Shaytanic takeover of the governments, countries, and institutions follows. At times in the name of pseudo faiths, if necessary
(iv) The examples of Shaytanic impositions on these lines are as old as the history of mankind. The exceptions, during the presence of some of Allah’s prophets, messengers, imams, exist.
(v) All existing faiths need to be looked at carefully to identify occurrences of Shaytanic hijacks contained therein. None other than Shaytan has a motivation to get involved in hijacking faiths and religions.
(vi) (Ghadir Khum) covenant needs to be understood. Faithfuls collectively bound themselves before Allah through the Holy Prophet at Ghadir Khum (Ma-idah-05: 3 & 67).
(vii) The non-compliance with the Ghadir Khum covenant changed the entire course of history and could be termed as the most significant hijack.

4. Conclusions:

4.1 Personal Ego & (Meri Merzi)

The Shaytanic motivations must not be allowed to interfere in devotion to Allah. It must be understood that all Shaytanic motivations are based on raising the image of an individual ‘Self’ over others. The scale of superiority and its intensity may differ. However, all measurable entities and scales of commanding elevated level of respect fall in this category. Even using Urdu term ‘Meri Marzi’ (My Decision or Will) constitutes a violation. The term ‘Marzi’ belongs to Allah alone. Individuals can only wish or pray, always seeking Allah’s concurrence by invoking ‘Insha-Allah’.

4.2 Beware of Innocent Looking Sidetracks:

(i) The collective Shaytanic target to get mankind sidetracked is visible in all walks of life. In modern era’s unending persuasions: self or externally imposed overwhelming chain of pressures: behind the facade of unbelievable scientific, fiscal, corporate, management, technology,
communications, education, health, arts, sports, music and many other known and/or unknown factors: willingly or unwillingly; do not constitute a valid reason for ignoring Allah’s Worship (Ibadat). On the contrary, all the mandatory and worldly affairs commanded by Allah could be delivered with ever increasing excellence by putting trust in Allah and seeking His help.
(ii) Following traditional rigid solutions, particularly when residing abroad, may close ones mind completely turning into revolt. Allah’s doors are never closed. He has promised to make life easy for you and instead of difficult and crooked. Think about it? The only requirement is ‘Honesty of Purpose’ (Niyaat) which matters.

4.3 Patience, Gratitude and Repentance:

As always, being repentant and seeking Allah’s forgiveness with ever increasing gratitude, is and shall continue to be an unfailing blessing in the hands of faithfuls.

Alhamdulillah