Islamic Scholar Calls for Repentance and Reliance on Allah

By Muhammad Sani Muazu

During his sermon, Islamic scholar Ustaz Muhammad Zahraddeen Usman addressed the congregation at the Friday prayers, urging them to reflect on the difficult times the world is facing. He began by expressing gratitude to Allah for the opportunity to gather for one of the most important acts of worship, the Friday prayer. He prayed for the acceptance of their prayers and for ease in their lives, especially on the Day of Resurrection.

He acknowledged the challenging circumstances not only in Nigeria but across the globe, where people are dying from hunger, fear, and various adversities. Despite these challenges, he reminded believers to hold on to their faith and trust in Allah’s control over all affairs. He cited a hadith of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), emphasizing that whatever situation a believer finds themselves in, whether in adversity or prosperity, it ultimately turns out to be good for them. This, he said, applies only to those who have true belief in Allah.

Ustaz Usman drew lessons from the stories of past prophets, particularly Prophet Musa (Moses) and his struggles with Pharaoh and the Bani Israel. He compared the challenges faced by Musa to the current difficulties experienced by believers. He explained that the trials of life are part of Allah’s divine plan, designed to teach patience and perseverance. He reminded the congregation of how Musa, when trapped between the Red Sea and Pharaoh’s army, placed his trust in Allah. As a result, Allah parted the sea, showing that reliance on Him brings miraculous solutions to seemingly insurmountable challenges.

He went on to explain that Allah’s help is always accompanied by effort. Ustaz Usman used the example of Maryam (Mary), who, despite being in labor, was instructed by Allah to shake a palm tree to receive sustenance. Similarly, Ibrahim (Abraham) was tested with the command to sacrifice his son, Ismail (Ishmael), and he obeyed without hesitation, demonstrating complete submission to Allah’s will. Ustaz Usman emphasized that these stories highlight the importance of making efforts while relying on Allah for success and sustenance.

Further, he discussed the life of Prophet Zakariyya (Zachariah), who, despite his old age, prayed for a child after seeing the blessings bestowed upon Maryam. Allah answered his prayer, but only after Zakariyya took the necessary steps, teaching believers that effort is a prerequisite for divine assistance.

Ustaz Usman also reflected on the trials of Prophet Ayub (Job), who lost everything in one night but remained patient and steadfast in his faith. He urged the congregation to take comfort in the Quran’s stories, which show that no test is beyond a believer’s capacity. He said that the current challenges faced by Muslims, whether related to hunger, insecurity, or financial difficulty, are part of life’s trials, and with faith, optimism, and reliance on Allah, they can be overcome.

The scholar called on believers to remain optimistic about Allah’s mercy and justice, to have hope in His provisions, and to always think positively of Him. He stressed the importance of believing that Allah is never unjust to His creation and will always provide for those who put their trust in Him.

Finally, Ustaz Usman emphasized the significance of Tawakkul, or reliance on Allah, using the example of Ibrahim when he was thrown into the fire and how Allah made it cool for him. He also mentioned the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and his companion Abu Bakr when they were hiding in a cave, and Allah protected them from their enemies. These examples illustrate that true reliance on Allah, combined with effort, leads to success and divine protection.

He concluded by advising the congregation to always be grateful for Allah’s provisions, no matter how small, and to help those in need. He encouraged believers to look at those who are less fortunate as a way of appreciating their blessings and to always strive for obedience to Allah in all circumstances.