Bismillah-ir-Rahman-ir-Rahim
Dear brothers and sisters,
Today’s reminder invites us to reflect on the lives of some of the most inspiring companions of the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ — especially Abdullah ibn Mas’ud (RA) — and how their connection with the Qur'an can teach us to live more spiritually enriched lives.
Allah says in the Qur’an:
“Had We sent down this Qur'an upon a mountain, you would have seen it humbled and coming apart from fear of Allah.”
[Surah Al-Hashr, 59:21]
Such is the power of the Qur’an that even a mountain would crumble under its weight. So why do our hearts often remain unaffected when we hear its message?
Abdullah ibn Mas’ud was among the first to accept Islam. Though physically slight, he was spiritually immense. He was even known as the keeper of the Prophet's secrets. The Prophet ﷺ once said:
“Whoever wishes to recite the Qur'an as fresh as when it was revealed, let him recite like Ibn Umm 'Abd (Ibn Mas’ud).”
He was one of the first to publicly recite the Qur’an in Makkah despite threats from the Quraysh. His fearless propagation of Islam moved many hearts. Once, his recitation made the Prophet ﷺ tear up and ask him to stop, overwhelmed by the emotion.
Reflection: Are we connecting with the Qur’an with the same humility and sincerity?
Despite his deep knowledge, Ibn Mas’ud remained incredibly humble. He lived the Qur’anic verse:
“And lower your wing to the believers who follow you.”
[Surah Ash-Shu‘ara, 26:215]
He served others, never boasted of his knowledge, and always chose humility over ego. His character reminds us that true scholars serve, not dominate.
When the Prophet ﷺ passed away, the entire Ummah was shaken. It was Abu Bakr (RA) who calmed the believers by reciting:
“Muhammad is no more than a messenger; many messengers passed away before him...”
[Surah Aal-Imran, 3:144]
In the darkest moments, the Qur’an provided guidance and strength. It still does today — whether we face family challenges, academic stress, or financial pressure.
Sumayyah (RA), the first martyr in Islam, was killed simply for believing in Allah. Even as she was tortured, she found strength in the Qur’an:
“Indeed, those who tortured the believing men and women and did not repent will have the punishment of Hell…”
[Surah Al-Buruj, 85:10]
Her unwavering faith shows how the Qur’an strengthens the soul even in moments of extreme hardship.
We need not look far back to find examples of steadfastness. Today, in 2025, the people of Palestine are enduring persecution for holding onto their faith. Like the Sahabah, they hold fast to the Qur’an, finding courage, strength, and hope in its message.
Our Ummah will continue to be tested — but our response must always be rooted in the Qur’an.
Here are some simple steps to reconnect with the Qur’an daily:
Recite verses like Ayat-ul-Kursi in the morning and before sleeping. The Prophet ﷺ said Allah’s protection remains upon those who do so.
Instead of music or entertainment, listen to beneficial talks or Qur’anic podcasts. Let your daily travel become a source of knowledge and reflection.
Never sacrifice your faith for worldly gain. If your career requires you to compromise Islamic values, trust in Allah's promise:
“Whoever fears Allah — He will make for him a way out. And will provide for him from where he does not expect.”
[Surah At-Talaq, 65:2–3]
In moments of stress — exams, work, or personal trials — recite the dua of Prophet Musa (AS):
“My Lord, expand for me my chest, and ease for me my task...”
[Surah Taha, 20:25–26]
The Qur’an is not just a book to be read — it is a guide, a companion, and a source of comfort and wisdom in every situation. Whether in moments of joy or hardship, let the Qur’an shape your thoughts, your actions, and your heart.
Let us not be of those who only turn to the Qur’an during crises. Instead, let it be our daily source of strength, our moral compass, and our reminder of Allah’s mercy and justice.
May Allah make the Qur’an the light of our hearts and the guide for our lives. Ameen.
