What This Week Teaches Us About Living Islam

Introduction

As we enter a new week filled with meaningful historical and spiritual milestones, we are reminded that our past is not merely to be remembered, but to be lived. These occasions offer guidance for strengthening faith, deepening knowledge, and refining character in today’s complex world.

18 Dhu al-Qa‘dah: The Passing of Muhammad Husayn Kashif al-Ghita (1373 AH / 1954 CE)

Muhammad Husayn Kashif al-Ghita was a prominent Shia scholar, jurist, and reformer who played a key role in promoting unity among Muslims and defending Islam in the modern age. His writings addressed both traditional scholarship and contemporary challenges.

Message for Today:

Seek knowledge that unites hearts and addresses the real challenges of your community.

22 Dhu al-Qa‘dah: Completion of Tafsir Majma‘ al-Bayan (536 AH)

This great Qur’anic exegesis by Shaykh al-Tabarsi is one of the most comprehensive classical commentaries, combining linguistic, theological, and jurisprudential insights.

At a time when superficial understanding is widespread, this work highlights the need for deep reflection on the Qur’an:

أَفَلَا يَتَدَبَّرُونَ الْقُرْآنَ

“Do they not reflect upon the Qur’an?” (Qur’an 4:82)

Message for Today:

Move beyond recitation – engage with the Qur’an thoughtfully and apply it in daily life.

23 Dhu al-Qa‘dah: The Battle of Banu Qurayza (5 AH)

This event followed a serious breach of treaty by Banu Qurayza during the Battle of the Trench, when they sided with enemy forces against the Muslims and the Prophet.

In today’s world of fragile trust and shifting alliances, this event underlines the centrality of loyalty and honouring agreements. The Prophet (peace be upon him) says:

لا دِينَ لِمَنْ لا عَهْدَ لَهُ

“There is no faith for the one who does not keep their covenant.”  (Bihar al-Anwar, Vol. 72, p. 96)

Message for Today:

Integrity and keeping one’s word are essential foundations of both faith and society.

19 Ordibehesht / 09 May: Commemoration of Shaykh al-Kulaynī

Shaykh al-Kulaynī, the great compiler of Al-Kafi, is one of the most important figures in preserving the teachings of the Ahl al-Bayt. His work remains a cornerstone of Islamic scholarship.

In a time of misinformation, preserving authentic knowledge is more important than ever. The Prophet (peace be upon him) says:

نَضَّرَ اللَّهُ عَبْداً سَمِعَ مَقَالَتِي فَوَعَاهَا، وَحَفِظَهَا وَأَدَّاهَا کَمَا سَمِعَهَا (بحارالانوار، ج ۲، ص ۱۴۴)

“May Allah brighten (and bless) the person who hears my words, understands them, preserves them, and conveys them just as he heard them.”

Message for Today:

Value authentic knowledge and pass it on responsibly to others.

Last word

These occasions remind us that Islam is a living tradition – rooted in knowledge, guided by reflection, and sustained through integrity. By learning from these legacies, we can better serve our communities and navigate the challenges of our time with clarity and purpose.