Worship (Ibadat) – Islamic Governance

The fundamental concept of Worship (Ibadat) has been explored with an objective to acquire its better understanding.
The Obligatory Worship (Wajibats) and mandatory requirements with respect to the fulfillment of obligations towards worldly affairs in line with Allah’s Way (Sunnat) have been revisited.
The conclusive distinction between (Haqooq-al-Allah) and (Haqooq-al-Ibad) has been highlighted.
Existing trends towards the fulfillment of obligatory worship and worldly affairs have been reviewed.
Quranic verses concerning Worship (Ibadat) have been highlighted.
The implications of the modern environment on Worship (Ibadat) have been examined.
The compliance status with respect to Allah’s commandments and Quranic injunctions has been reviewed in an itemized form.
It is found that faith fulls are way behind in fulfillment of Allah’s call in respect of worldly affairs (Haqooq-al-Ibad)
Seeking Allah’s forgiveness and mercy and a way out of the current mess has been desired

1. Foreword

> ” I did not create the jinn and humans but to worship Me”
(Dhariyat-51: 56)

Before moving any further, it is necessary to answer a few questions:

(i) Does a full compliance with (Foundations of and Obligations in Islam), covered separately, ensures fulfilment of Allah’s command above?

(ii) Does in addition to the above, even a complete disregard to Shaytan and Shaytanic instigation, qualify for total fulfilment of Allah’s command (Dhariyat-51: 56)?

(iii) Does the full compliance with (i & ii) above would enable mankind to receive an unqualified prostration from the angels?

A simple answer to the above is a qualified NO!

Though the indicated achievements may rank very high with the (Omnipotent & Omniscient), it may not still be exactly what He wants to see. Allah’s declaration:

>>> ” guidance to Muttaqin>>>”
( Baqarah-2: 02)

Clearly asks for more to enable mankind to achieve the status of:

>>> ” and these shall be successful (Muflehoon)>>>
(Baqarah-2: 05)

It is, therefore, required to look for the additional requirements with respect to Worship (Ibadat) ensuring an ‘Excellence’ further enhanced level of achievement. This is the (Keynote) element of this Chapter which is entitled as {Worship (Ibadat)}. The objective of the entire exercise being a better understanding of the same. A few of the poetic renderings, unrelated though it may seem at this point, are reproduced below, only to raise thoughts to a higher plane before discussion proceeds further.

Darde-Dil Key Waste Paida Kiya Insaan Ko
(Mankind was created to carry heartfelt emotions)
Warna Taa’it Key Liye Kuchh Kum Na Theh Karro Bayyan
(Otherwise! there was no dearth of angels and angelic forces to render the worship)

Khuddi Ko Kar Buland Itna Key Har Taqdeer Se Pehley
(Raise your ‘Self’ to such limits; before you encounter destined obstacles)
Khuda Bundey Se Khud Puchhey Bata’a Teri Raza Kiya Hey
{So that God is compelled to ask ‘What do you want (Submit your desire)’?}

Fikre-Masih, Jurraa’t-e- Saqraat Ki Qassam
{‘On Oath’ or in the name of Jesus(Isa)’s Philosophy(Thoughts) and ‘Socrates’ Courage}
Kaun? Jibrail: Kuen Aai Ho?
(Who is there? This is Jibrail: Why did you come?
Sarkar! Paigham Koi Falak Key Liey?
(Your Majesty! Is there any message for the heavens?
Ja’an Di, Di-hoi Usi Ki Thhei
{Laid down the life: Big deal? Even that was a Gift (bestowed) by Him!}
Haq Tu Yeh Hai Key Haq Ada Na Hua!
(On balance, it was no sacrifice at all)

1.1 Categorisation of Worship (Ibadat)

The two distinct categories of Worship (Ibadat) decreed by Allah are as below:

1.1.1 Haqooq-al-Allah

The Mandatory Obligations towards Allah: which is fulfilment of the (‘Wajibat’).

1.1.2 Haqooq-al-Ibad

The Obligations towards Worldly Affairs, or in other words: the fulfilment of the obligations towards mankind & humanity.

1.1.3 The Consequential Distinction between (Haqooq-al-Allah) and (Haqooq-al-Ibad)

It must be understood with clarity that faithfuls may seek pardon from Allah for shortcomings in meeting (Haqooq-al-Allah); whereas neglect of (Haqooq-al-Ibad) is to be forgiven by aggrieved beings only.

1.2 A Critical View of Worship (Ibadat)?

Those conforming to the conceptual requirements and the prerequisites (Foundations of and Obligations in Islam) may be identified as faithfuls.The same, however, may not be adequate to ensure Allah’s all encompassing forgiveness. The analogy with respect to Worship (Ibadat) drawn in terms prevailing educational levels is presented as an example to have a better understanding:

In accordance with the prevailing educational system, matriculates or graduates may be classified as ‘Literates’. Conversely, anyone without such qualifications may be tagged as an ‘Illiterate’. Similarly, conceptual compliance with prerequisites (para 1.2) is obligatory to be amongst the ‘Faithfuls’ without which Worship (Ibadat) is a non-starter. For seeking Allah’s all encompassing forgiveness, simultaneous fulfilment of obligations towards (Haqooq-al-Ibad) is equally necessary.
The prevailing common tendency to concentrate on (Wajibats) alone, at ever exceeding scale, while disregarding (Haqooq-al-Ibad), may not be exactly what Allah wants faithfuls to accomplish.

1.3 Worship (Ibadat) viewed as a Strategic Political Convenience?

However, being in the interest of self centred clergy, rulers, governments as well as other power centres, it may often be convenient to keep individuals preoccupied with (Wajibats) while obligations to wordily affairs remain in the background. A massive significant shift of focus to the worldly affairs, is bound to have repercussions. The affected, being individuals and institutions alike. Any excessive exposure of their all too obvious shortcomings is the last thing power centres (executive and clergy) would like to have. Masses remaining fully occupied with Wajibats suits them fine.

1.4 Prevailing Era and Worldly (Human/Humanitarian) Affairs (Haqooq-al-Ibad)

A few centuries ago, it it may have been simpler to define worldly obligations. In the modern age, a similar exercise may become vastly enlarged and ever expanding. The criterion for inclusion in any such proposed list of obligations, as always, must be its conformity with the Quran {Allah’s Way (Sunnat)}. The specific reference with regard to good customs, practices and generosity, in accordance with the Quranic injunctions, may be necessary. A few of the key indicators are identified below:

Rights of parents, children, relatives, neighbours, needy without discrimination with regard to religion, sex, colour caste or creed.
Compliance with obligations to the government in all matters pertaining, but not limited to, laws, taxes, health, environment, collective and individual responsibilities, etc.
Compliance with obligations towards the family, neighbourhood, community, etc in all respects, upholding good customs/practices, generosity, etc where no fundamental conflict with Quranic injunctions and commandments exist.
Compliance towards meeting rights of women with equity, dignity, justice, generosity and in accordance with the customs never departing from the Allah’s Way (Sunnat).
Avoiding all evils and adopting all goods without over-stepping Quranic injunctions.

1.5 Allah’s Warning Flags?

Let not your Worship (Ibadat) be Worthless:

(i) The disregard of covenants with Allah (Celestial realm & Worldly). Remember denials of the same constitute a revolt against Allah.

(ii) Allah may at his discretion forgive all your sins except Shirk (associating anyone as His partner).

(iii). It is way easier to seek Allah’s forgiveness for failures in performance of Wajibats (Haqooq-al-Allah) than seeking the same with respect to non-compliance with obligations towards humanity and human beings i,e. worldly affairs (Haqooq-al-Ibad) which can only be forgiven by the aggrieved.

1.6 Allah’s Promise-Good News

> ” Say (O Muhammad): to my servants who have been immoderate against their own souls: Do not despair of the mercy of Allah; verily Allah forgives all sins. Verily He is oft forgiving, most merciful”
(Zumar-39: 53)

2. Quranic Verses on Worship (Ibadat)

> ” I did not create the jinn and humans but to worship Me”
(Dhariyat-51: 56)

Note:

(i) The objective of the Creation

> ” You (alone) we worship and from You (alone) we seek help”
(Fatihah-01: 5)

Note:

(i) The confirmation of the Worship (Ibadat).

(ii) Worshipping Allah alone is promise made by all souls in celestial realm.

(iii) Re-confirmation of the same promise in this world is an integral part. Accordingly, its repetition in every compulsory prayer is mandatory.

2.1 What is Worship (Ibadat)?

The simplistic and conventional view of Worship (Ibadat) consists of performing obligatory rituals (Prayers, Fasting, Zakat, Hajj, Jihad, Khoms and any additions/deletions based on various Fiqh). Ready willingness to accept and adherence to this concept is not uncommon. Accordingly, fulfilment of the same is considered an adequate discharge of the responsibility thereby ensuring Allah’s acceptance and pleasure. A further understanding of the subject is possible in view of the undermentioned verses

2.1.1 Summarised All-in-One Concept: The Book & Muttaqin: (Baqarah-2: 02-04)

“ALF LAM MIM”: (01)
“This is the Book; There is no Doubt in it, (it is ) a guidance to those who safe guard themselves with full awareness of divine laws (Muttaqin)”: (02)
“Who believe in unseen and establish the prayers, and spend (in the way of their Lord) out of what We have given them”: (03) >
“And believe in that which has been revealed to you (O Muhammad), and that which was revealed to (other messengers) before you and are sure of hereafter”:(04)

Note:

(i) The above criteria concerning (the Book and the Muttaqin) in verse (1-4) as indicated above define the requirements outlined by Allah.

(ii) The details/procedures/background/concepts/orders/prohibitions/limits/elaborations and more are covered in the holy book (Quran) separately.

(iii) Accordingly, meeting the above description not only qualifies for being called a Muslim but also Muttaqi. Further elaboration on same subject follows:

> ” Believe in Allah and His messenger (Muhammad), and spend of that whereof He has made you successors to; for, those who believe and spend (in charity) will have a great reward”
(Hadid:57: 07)

2.1.2 The Successful (Al-Muflehoon)

> “These are on the right path (guidance) from their Lord, and these shall be successful”
(Baqarah-2: 05)

Note:

(i) A successful end for (Muttaqin) has been guaranteed by Allah Himself (Baqarah-2: 05)

2.2 RIGHTEOUSNESS or TAQWA

” It is not righteous that you turn your face toward the east or the west, but the righteousness is this , that one should believe in Allah, and the last day, and the angels, and the book, and the prophets, and give away wealth out of love for Him to the kindred, and the orphans, and the poor, and wayfarer, and the needy, and for the emancipation of the slaves, and establish the prayer and pay poor-tax, and those who fulfil their promise when they make a promise, and the patient ones in distress, and affliction, and in time of conflict; these are they who are true to themselves with full awareness of the divine laws”
(Baqarah-2: 177)

Note:

(i) To know the true significance of this verse, it is sufficient to quote the saying of the Holy Prophet: ‘Who acts upon this (one) verse attains perfection in faith’.

2.3 Ibadat (Worship) and Human life

” For this reason we prescribed for the children of Israel that he who slays a human being for other than murder (as punishment for killing another human being) or for spreading corruption in the land, (it shall be) as though he has slain all mankind; and he who saves a human life, it shall be as though he has saved the entire mankind. And certainly our messengers came to them with clear evidence, and yet, verily, many of them, even after that, commit excesses in the land”
(Mai-dah-05: 32)

2.4 Justice and doing Good

> ” Verily Allah enjoins justice, doing good to the others, and giving to kindred, and forbids lewdness, evil and rebellion. He exhorts you in order that you may take heed”
(Nahl-16: 90)

2.5 Allah’s Sacred Ordinances

> ” That (is the command), and whosoever respects the sacred ordinances of Allah, then it is best for him with his Lord>>>”
(Hajj-22: 30)

2.6 Seeking Allah’s Help

> ” O you who believe! Seek help through patience and prayer. Verily Allah is with those who are patient
(Baqarah-2: 153)

2.7 Spending in the Way of Allah

> ” They ask you (O Muhammad) as to what they should spend. Say: Whatever good (wealth) you spend, it is for parents, and near of kin, and orphans, and the needy, and the wayfarer (traveller specially on foot): and whatever good you do, verily Allah knows it”
(Baqarah-2: 215)

Note:

(i) What should be spent in the way of Allah? Whatever good that may benefit others is the answer: The Holy Prophet has defined surplus, and how much and to whom it should be given. In all events, moderation is the guidelines.

(ii) The mandatory order in which charity should be given has been clearly defined above (Baqarah-2: 215)

(iii) Arbitrary change at will in the order of priority indicated above has not been authorised (Baqarah-2: 215)

2.8 Recognition of the Good Existing Customs and emphasis on the Generosity

> ” There is no blame on you if you divorce women when you have not touched them or settled any dowry for them; but provide for them, the wealthy according to his means, and the poor according to his means, a fair provision according to customs; (this is) an obligation on those who do what is right”
(Baqarah-2: 236)

> ” Do not forget generosity among yourselves; verily, Allah sees what you do”
(Baqarah-2: 237)

> ” And for the divorced women, there shall be a fair provision according to custom; (this is) an obligation those who safeguard themselves with full awareness of divine laws”
(Baqarah-2: 241)

Note:

(i) There is no harm in adoption of those good and/or generous customs which are not in conflict with Allah’s commandments. Moderation, kindness, generosity and broad-mindedness is encouraged by Allah in the above and all other similar matters.

2.9 Acts of Worship (Ibadat) loved by Allah

>>>” Verily Allah loves those who turn to Him often, and loves those who clean themselves”
(Baqarah-2: 222)

>>> ” Allah loves those who safeguard themselves (against evil) with full awareness of divine laws (Muttaqin)”
(Bara-at-9: 04 & 07)

> ” Those who spend in prosperity and straitness, those who control (their) anger and are forgiving toward people; Allah loves those who do good”
(Imran-03: 134)

> ” Thus it is a mercy of Allah that you are lenient to them; if you had been severe and hard-hearted, they would have surely dispersed from around you. So forgive them and seek pardon for them, and take their counsel in the (conduct of) affairs, but when you are resolved, then put your trust in Allah, for Allah loves those who put their trust in Him”
(Imran-03: 159)

> ” And many a prophet has fought with innumerable godly men beside him, while they did not lose heart for anything that befell them in the way of Allah, nor they weakened, nor they humbled themselves (before their enemies). And Allah loves the steadfast”:
(Imran-03: 146)

> ” So Allah gave them the reward of this world and the excellent reward of the hereafter. And Allah loves those who do good”
(Imran-3: 148)

> ” (They are) listeners to falsehood, devourers of illicit gain, therefore if they come to you (O Muhammad) judge between them or turn away from them, and if you turn away from them, then they shall never (be able) to harm you at all; but if you judge, then judge between them with equity; verily Allah loves those who are equitable”
(Maidah-05: 42)

> ” Allah does not forbid you from being kind and acting justly towards those who did not fight over (your) religion, nor drive you out of your homes. Verily Allah loves those who are just”
(Mumtahinah-60: 08)

> ” Yes whoso keeps his promise and guards himself (against evil is Allah’s favourite), for verily, Allah loves those who safeguard themselves with full awareness of divine laws (Muttaqin)”
(Imran-05: 76)

> ” And spend in the way of Allah, and do not cast yourself into perdition with your own hands; and do good; verily, Allah loves the doers of good”
(Baqarah-02: 195)

> ” But because of their breaking their covenant, We cursed them and made their hearts hard; they change position of the words (of the scripture) from (their) proper places, and have forgotten a part of that whereof they were admonished. And you will not seize to find deceit among them, save a few of them; so forgive them and pass (them) over; Allah loves the beneficent (Al-Muhsineen)”
(Maidiah-05: 13)

> ” If the two parties fall into a quarrel, make peace between them; but if one of them transgresses against the other , (then) fight against that which transgresses till it complies with the command of Allah; and if it complies, then make peace between them with justice, and be fair, Verily Allah loves those who are just”
(Hujurat-49: 09)

> ” Verily Allah loves those who fight in His cause in ranks as though they were an unbreakable concrete wall”
(Saff-61:04)

Note:

(i) Allah’s unassailable warriors: (Saff-61: 04)

(ii) Refers to Ali ibn Abu Talib and likes of him such as Hamza and others who defended the Holy Prophet at the battle of Uhad.

> ” On those who believe and do good deeds there is no blame for them for what they ate (in the past), when they safeguarded themselves (against evil) with full awareness of divine laws and believed and did good deeds; and they safeguarded themselves (against evil) and believe; and still they safeguard themselves (against evil) and do good; Allah loves those who do good”
(Maidah-5: 93)

> ” Never (O Muhammad) stand (to pray) there. Surely a masjid founded on piety from the very first day is worthier than you should stand (to pray) therein, wherein are men who love to be purified. And Allah loves the purified”
(Bara-at-09:108)

> ” If you do good openly or conceal it, or pardon an evil, then verily, Allah is pardoning, powerful”
(Nisa-04: 149)

2.10 Acts not Worship (Ibadat) and disliked by Allah

> ” Allah does not love the Utterance of evil in (public) speech, except by one who has been wronged: and Allah is ever hearer, knower”
(Nisa-04: 148)

> ” If you do good openly or conceal it, or pardon an evil then, verily, Allah is pardoning, powerful”
(Nisa-4: 149)

Note:

(i) Dislike of defamatory slander and pardoning evil: (Nisa-4:148)

(ii) Allah has helped man to find the right way thereby leaving option to him of either thankfully accepting the guidance or ungratefully deny it to go astray: (Nisa-4: 149)

> ” Say (O Muhammad): If your fathers, your sons, your brothers, your kindred and your wives, and the possessions you have acquired, and the trade in which you fear decline, and the dwellings in which you delight are dearer to you than Allah and His messenger and striving in His way, then wait till Allah brings His command to pass. Verily Allah does not guide transgressing people”
(Bara-at:09: 24)

> ” Verily, Qarun was of the people of Musa, but he rebelled against him. We had given him treasures, so many that their keys would have been a burden to a body of strong men. His people said to him: Do not exult , for Allah does not love those who exult” :
(Qasas-28: 76)

> ” Say (O Muhammad): Obey Allah and the messenger. But if they turn back, then verily Allah does not love the disbelievers”:
(Imran-3: 32)

> ” Allah blots out (the gains of) usury, and causes charitable deeds to grow, and Allah does not love any ungrateful wrong-doer”
(Baqarah-2: 276)

>>> ” Allah does not love mischief-makers”
(Maidah-05: 64)

> ” And fight in the way of Allah against those who fight against you, but do not be aggressive; (for) verily Allah does not love aggressors”
(Baqarah-02: 190)

Note:

(i) The message of Islam is universal. From early times the Muslims were permitted to fight in self defence. The Quran commands Muslims not to exceed the limits but to fight evil until its power base is dislodged.

> ” If you have been afflicted with an injury, the (disbelieving) people too have suffered a wound. We bring about these days (change of fortune) in the affairs of men, by turns, so that Allah may know those who have (sincerely) believed, and that He may take witnesses from among you; and does not love the unjust”
(Imran-03: 140)

> ” And do not plead on behalf of those who deceive their own souls; verily Allah does not love one who is treacherous, sinful”
(Nisa-04: 107)

> ” And if you fear treachery from a people, then throw back (their covenant) to them (so as to be) on equal terms; verily Allah does not love the treacherous”
(Anfal-08:58)

> ” Worship Allah and not join any partners with Him; and do good to the parents, and the kinsfolk, and the orphans, and the needy, and the neighbours who are near, and the neighbours who are strangers, and the companions by your side, and wayfarer, and which your right hands possess; verily, Allah does not love the proud, the boastful”
(Nisa-04: 36)

> ” Surely Allah knows what they hide and what they disclose. Verily He does not love the arrogant”
(Nahl-16: 23)

>” O children of Adam, attire yourself at every time and place of prayer, eat and drink; and do not waste by excess. Verily He does not love the prodigals (extravagant)”
(Araf-07: 31)

2.11 Covenants with Allah

> ” O you who believe ! Fulfil the contracts made (by you)”
(Mai-dah-05: 01)

Note:

(i) Included in the covenants is the one at Ghadir Khum (Mai-dah-05 : 67 & 03) made by the entire crowd returning from Haj as a part of Holy Prophets last sermon: ‘Of whomsoever I am the Master (Maula) Ali is his Master (Maula)’.

After the declaration delivered with clarity; Allah announced the choosing Islam as the religion of the faithfuls (Mai-dah-05: 03)

2.12. Worship (Ibadat) Milestones

>>> ” Help one another in righteousness and piety, and do not help one another in sin and aggression>>>”
(Mai-dah-5: 02)

Note:

(i) Cooperate in righteousness and refrain from collaboration in evil: (Mai-dah 05: 02)

2.13 Wasilah: How to Seek Acceptance of Your Worship (Ibadat)?

> ” O you who believe! Fear Allah and seek means of approach to Him, and strive hard in His way, that haply you may have success”
(Maidah-05: 35)

Note:

(i) If Allah had willed He could have guided mankind directly through inspiration, but in His infinite wisdom, He had not deemed it desirable. Instead he conveyed through representatives (Prophets).

(ii) It is therefore necessary to seek (Wasilah) to successfully approach Allah. For faithfuls, these include Muhammad and Ale-Muhammad who have been thoroughly purified by Allah (Azab-33: 33)

2.14 “Salamun Alaykum”: An-All-Inclusive Worship (Ibadat)

> ” And when those who believe in Our signs come to you, say you ‘ Peace be on you’ (Salamun Aalykum). Your Lord has prescribed mercy for Himself; (so that) if any one of you does evil out of ignorance, then turns repentant (to Allah) thereafter, and amends (his conduct), then verily He is oft-forgiving, merciful”
(An-am 06: 54)

Note:

(i) The customary behaviour of those (rich and those on elevated position) who expect to be saluted first is negation of the requirement. Similarly not taking lead in saluting ladies of the house and minors is not a desirable act.

2.15 Saving human life

>>> ” And he who saves a human life, it shall be as though he has saved the entire mankind>>>”
(Maidah-05: 32)

Note:

(i) Services being routinely provided by doctors, paramedical staff, researchers, pharmacists and others may be included in this category. The services of other relevant categories such as Lifeguards, Disaster Mitigation Services Personnel, Fire Brigade Personnel, Army/Police Emergency Services Personnel and other similar functionaries also fall in this category

2.16 Being fair to Orphans: A Worship (Ibadat)

> “And give to orphans their property, and do not substitute (your) worthless things for their good ones, and do not devour their property (by intermixing it ) with your own for verily this is a great crime”
(Nisa-04: 02)

> ” (As for) those who swallow the property of the orphans unjustly, sure they only swallow fire into their bellies and they shall enter fire”
(Nisa-04: 10)

> ” And when kinsfolk and orphans and the needy are present at the time of the division, provide for them also from it, and speak kindly to them”
(Nisa-04: 08)

2.17 Disposal of Inheritance: A Worship (Ibadat)

>>> ” These (assignments) are the decree of Allah; verily Allah is knowing , wise”
(Nisa-4: 11)

2.18 Knowing the Worship (Ibadat) which is same for Men and Women alike?

> ” Say (O Muhammad) to the believing men to lower their eyes and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Verily Allah is aware of what they do”
(Nur-24: 30)

> ” And so to the believing women to lower their eyes, and guard their private parts>>>”
(Nur-24: 31)

2.19 Usurpation: an anti-Worship (Ibadat) Act

> ” And do not swallow up your property among yourselves by false means, nor seek to gain access by it to the authorities, so that you may knowingly swallow up a portion of the property of men wrongfully”
(Baqarah-02: 188)

2.20 Education: An Invaluable Worship (Ibadat)

>>> ” Can those who know and those who do not know be equal?>>>”
(Zumer-39: 09)

> ” Who taught (to write) with the pen”
(Alaq-96:04)

> ” (He) taught man what he did not know”
(Alaq-96: 05)

2.21 Spreading Corruption in Land is no Worship (Ibadat)

> ” The recompense for those who wage war against Allah and His messenger, and strive in spreading mischief in the land, is only that they should be slain or crucified, or that their hands and their feet should be cut of from the opposite sides, or they be banished from the land. This shall be their disgrace in this world, and for them, in the hereafter shall be a great torment”:
(Mai-dah-05: 33)

Note:

Fisad-fil Arz (Spreading lawlessness and mischief on the land) bracketed with murder as a crime (Mai-dah-05: 32)

2.22 Understanding Fatwas?

>>> ” So Allah will judge between them on the day of judgement in what they differ”:
(Baqarah-02: 113)

> ” And if there be a party of you who believe in what I am sent with, and a party who do not believe, then have patience until Allah judge between us; and He is the best of judges’.”
(Araf-07: 87)

> ” Say (O Muhammad): O Allah, the originator of the heavens and the earth, the knower of seen and unseen, You alone shall judge between Your servants concerning that where they have been differing”
(Zumer-39: 46)

>>>”Allah pronounces (decides), and there is none to reverse His command. He is swift at reckoning”:
(Rad-13: 41)

>>>> ” This is the decree (Judgement) of Allah which He enforces (Judges) among you. Allah is all-knowing, all-wise”
(Mumtahinah-60: 10)

> ” And (Allah Commands) that you should judge between them by what Allah has sent down, and not follow their vain desires>>>”
(Mai-dah-05: 49)

> ” Judgement belongs to Allah alone”
(An-am-06: 57)

> ” Verily your Lord will judge between them by His decree (judgement). He is the almighty, the all knowing”
(Naml-27: 78)

Note:

(i) ‘Free for All’ issuance of ‘Fatwas’ help none; least of all an Islamic cause.

(ii) Let it be abundantly clear that fifteenth century religious fatwas banning printing press, demolishing astronomical research centre, etc were the key reasons behind retreat of the Muslim world from their golden age to the dark age which is still continuing unabated.

(iii) On the contrary: ‘Judgement’ belongs to Allah alone’ and the same has not been delegated to anyone whatsoever.

> ” Not at all with you is anything of the authority whether He turns to them (mercifully) or punishes, for, verily , they are transgressors“
(Imran-03: 128)

2.23 Disregard to Allah’s Signs is not Worship (Ibadat)

> ” That (is the command). Whoever respects the signs of Allah; verily it is from the piety of the hearts”
(Hajj-22: 32)

>>> ” And no one rejects our signs save every perfidious ungrateful (wretch)”
(Luqman-31: 32)

2.24 Worship (Ibadat): Recognising Sanctity of Allah’s Monuments

> ” O you who believe! Do not violate (sanctity) of monuments of Allah>>>”
(Maid-dah-05: 02)

>” Verily I, I am your Lord, so take off your shoes, you are in the sacred valley of Tuwa”
(Taha-20: 12)

>” Thus did We inform the people about them that they might know that the promise of Allah is true, and there is no doubt that the hour (of judgement) will come. When they disputed among themselves their affair, then they said: Build a monument over them; their Lord knows them best. Those who prevailed in their affair said: Certainly we shall build a masjid over them”
(Kahf-18: 21)

2.25 Recognising Disparity in Ranks: A Worship (Ibadat)

> ” Do they distribute the mercy of their Lord? It is We have distributed the means of livelihood among them in the the life of this world, raised some of them over others in ranks, so that some of them may control the others, and mercy of your Lord is better than what they amass”
(Zukhruf-43: 32)

3. Discussion

Apart from Quranic verses: Hadiths, Nahjul Balagha and other religious literature carry abundance of narrations concerning various virtues which constitute integral part of Worship (Ibadat). A few are listed below for reference:

(i) Love for others what you love for yourself

(ii) Want for your brother what you want for yourself

(iii) Seeking knowledge is religious duty of all men and women

(iv) Seeking knowledge for one hour is better than praying for seventy years.

(v) Receiving your friend with a smile is a type of charity.

(vi) Helping a person or neighbour (in need, sickness, moral support, etc) is charity.

(vii) Cleanliness (hygiene) is half Eman (Faith)

(viii) Seek knowledge from the cradle to the grave.

(ix) Seek knowledge even if it is as far as China.

(x) Seeking of knowledge is a duty of every Muslim man and women

(xi) Wisdom is the lost property of the believer, he should take it even if finds it in the mouth of a mushrik.

3.1 Existing status: Wajibat (Haqooq-al-Allah)

(i) There is no complexity or difference of opinion as far as Wajibats (Haqooq-al-Allah) are concerned. A sincere and regular compliance in its entirety is accepted by all the faithfuls in discharging the same in accordance with their applicable Fiqh.

(ii) The emphasis on Wajibats has increased many folds during the last century as demonstrated by ever increasing numbers of pilgrimage (Hajj, Umrah and Ziarat in case of Shias).

(iiii) Same is applicable to the performance of daily prayers and Ramadan fasting.

(iv) The emphasis on Dars (Sunnis) and Majalis (Shias) is unprecedented.

(v) The use of term (Jihad) against Quranic injunction is no worship. Islamic Jihad is essentially defensive and can only be pronounced in accordance with Quranic injunctions and by authorised persons or groups.

(vi) As regards Zakat, actual voluntary surrender and disbursement of funds is not as wide spread as submission to call of prayers or fasting.

(vii) In some countries Zakat is mandatory on assets and bank deposits in the form of withholding tax.

(viii) Amongst Shias voluntary willingness to make contributions toward (Zakat and Khoms) is way less than being universal.

(ix) The non-obligatory charities (Sadqa/Khairat/etc) are routinely diverted to the promotion of the sectarian divide under the institutionalised systems.

3.2 Worldly Affairs (Haqooq-al-Ibad) Existing Compliance

While critically examining the status of implementation of the Worldly Affairs (Haqooq-al-Ibad) as against Allah’s Way (Sunnat), it is not difficult to discover enormous gulf between the obligatory requirements as against ground reality. A brief itemised review follows:

3.2.1 Taxes and Levies

Widespread tax abatement is abound. It is hard to convince majority that payment of government imposed taxes is an integral part of the Worship (Ibadat). Included in this category are Income Tax, Customs and Excise Duties and all other similar taxes. Almost all financial dealings are routinely based on cutting corners, in one way or another, with no thought of these acts being against the concept of Worship (Ibadat). Avoiding and/or minimising payments for utilities and civic amenities is endemic and has almost attained an institutionalised status.

3.2.2 Education

Neglect of education is reflected in all relevant international indicators. Female education is still a banned entity in some geographical locations where burning of girls school remains a possibility.

3.2.3 Science & Technology

Technology, Research and Development continue to remain a dream. The combined Muslim World scientific discoveries, inventions, research publications, patents are almost non-existent compared to contemporary standards. The output of the Muslim scholars working in the Western countries remains a contribution to the host nations and is not much to boast about.

3.2.4 Health & Social Welfare

Neglect of health and social welfare sector is phenomenal. Though some outstanding individual contributions stand out. The impact of the same is like a drop in the ocean. Human life is routinely treated as a disposable commodity.

3.2.5 Corruption

The mega scale corruption is rampant in all sectors of life. Individual and institution sponsored corruption is a routine.The bribery, adulteration in food and medicine, human trafficking, drug processing and smuggling, money laundering, bank frauds, influencing the judiciary, human disappearances, curbs on right of speech, fake and sub-standard production of popular items, thefts (intellectual property, assets, belongings, etc) are only a few to mention. None of these acts carry any relationship with Worship (Ibadat) except in the negative sense.

3.2.6 Usurpation

The ‘Usurpation’ is a common practice at all levels

3.2.7 Inheritance and rights of orphans and widows

The violation of Allah’s commandments concerning (Orphans/Inheritance/widows/divorcees) is a common practice

3.2.8 Gender based discrimination

The gender based violation of rights is a routine amongst individuals, families and clans alike. The female discrimination in jobs, remuneration along with sexual harassment is abundant both in rural and urban centres: amongst rich and poor, educated as well as illiterates alike

3.2.9 Fisad-fil-Arz

The spreading of (Fisad-fil-Arz) tendency along with routine disregard to rules and regulations stands out as an additional serious threat to the existing precarious level of the state of the ‘Governance’. The tendency to disregard traffic signals, lethal driving norms, fraudulent issuance of driving licenses are only few of the examples.

3.2.10 The cleanliness and Hygiene

Failure to understand and/or comply with the concept of hygiene is routinely visible. Uncontrolled spitting on footpaths, roads, etc; throwing of garbage on roads and from moving vehicles witnessed routinely. The shabby state of washrooms in public places, trains, sometimes on flights, some of the eating places even in some of the houses is a common occurrence. It is not so much to do with poverty but more to disregard to cleanliness and bad habits.

3.2.11 Adoption of the existing ‘Good’

The term ‘Good’ used here includes any or all contemporary entities which do not constitute a violation of Quranic injunctions. A few specific examples are highlighted below:

Social Security and welfare systems
Programmes aimed at promotion of Sciences, Technology and Research, education and health systems
Good Governance
Respect of Human Rights

Good Practices

The term includes all good practices relevant to any discipline. For example, in engineering a term ” Good Engineering Practise” covers those items where knowledge is empirical without being supported by any specific law or established concept. Similar practices in other fields such as health, education, female related issues, environment, child labour, mutual tolerance, democratic norms, poverty and disaster management mitigation, human behaviour and rights, corruption minimisation, generosity, business, fiscal and legal ,corporate & R&D management, etc may be carefully looked at and adopted as and when practical

3.2.12 Maintaining Parity between Self and Others

The oft repeated concept of parity in the holy Quran, Hadiths and Nahjul Bilagha uniformly leads to the ‘Desiring same for others what you desire for yourself’. The fundamental problem encountered by the mankind revolves around maintaining his own superiority over others in riches, status, family, knowledge, political/social dominance, etc. The control of this ego is the ultimate objective desired by Allah and consistently opposed by the mankind caused by Shaytaic instigation. This is the root cause of the spread of evil on the earth. No Worship (Ibadat) may outshine conquering this ego while seeking Allah’s mercy.

4. Conclusions

Faithfuls have strayed far, far away in delivering obligations toward Worldly Affairs (Haqooq-al-Abad) as commanded by Allah
The emphasis on performance of Wajibats (Haqooq-al-Allah) must accompany simultaneous excellence with respect to (Haqooq-al-Ibad) for success in this world and the hereafter.
Individual and collective efforts at all levels must be resorted to thwart Shaytanic acts and plans in all spheres of the life
Sincere repentance and seeking Allah’s Guidance (Hidayat) must become a routine for each and every faithful
Always remember and trust Allah’s all encompassing promise for forgiveness (para 1.6) above.

Alhamdulillah