Nafsiya Reflections: Islam and Submission

Muslims who try to understand Islam with sincerity and depth realize that it’s not just a name or an identity. Islam encompasses role, duties, and obligations that every Muslim must follow. It is not permissible to adapt some aspects while neglecting others, for Islam is a complete way of life that cannot be divided or fragmented.

There are times when a Muslim starts a new job a job description where the manager sets clear rules and expectations. None of the employees usually object to these rules; instead, they follow them because they understand that this is part of being committed to their work. Yet, when it comes to the rules of Allah (swt), we often find many Muslims complaining, questioning, or picking and choosing what to follow.

When one is a Muslim it means to submit fully to Allah (swt)’s guidance and obeying every aspect of Islam; just as one would not accept a job while refusing to follow the manager’s rules. One cannot truly live as a Muslim while neglecting the commands of Allah (swt). Islam is not meant to be fragmented or taken selectively; it is a complete way of life that leads us to success in this world and the Hereafter.

Let us reflect on the inspiring stories of the remarkable companions of the Prophet (saw). The story of the Companion Umar ibn al-Khattab (ra) regarding the prohibition of alcohol was when the verse was revealed:

[إِنَّمَا يُرِيدُ ٱلشَّيۡطَٰنُ أَن يُوقِعَ بَيۡنَكُمُ ٱلۡعَدَٰوَةَ وَٱلۡبَغۡضَآءَ فِي ٱلۡخَمۡرِ وَٱلۡمَيۡسِرِ]

“Indeed, Satan only wants to cause between you animosity and hatred through intoxicants and gambling...” [Surah Al- Ma’idah Aya 91]

It deeply affected Umar ibn al-Khattab (ra), who was among the first to respond to Allah (swt’s) command without hesitation, he said, “We have stopped! We have stopped!” This story reflects complete submission to the commands of Allah (swt) and the Messenger (saw), showing that when a divine command is given, a true believer obeys it immediately; without argument, hesitation, or questioning whether it is obligatory or recommended. The believer’s duty is to submit instantly and wholeheartedly to the will of Allah (swt).

Another touching story that shows the same spirit of obedience and faith, when the verse of Hijab was revealed to the Muslim women, their hearts immediately responded in obedience. The companion did not wait until they found the perfect or suitable hijab. Instead, each of them hurried to cover herself with whatever fabric she could find, in obedience and submission to Allah (swt’s) command.

Unlike the companions of the Prophet (ra), disbelief and rejection of Allah (swt’s) rulings have become widespread in our time. Many people today object to the commands of Allah (swt), claiming that some of them are outdated or not suitable for modern times. This attitude is a clear form of disbelief and misguidance, a sign of arrogance and disobedience to Allah (swt), and a path leading away from faith. Allah the Almighty said:

[ٱتَّبِعُواْ مَآ أُنزِلَ إِلَيۡكُم مِّن رَّبِّكُمۡ وَلَا تَتَّبِعُواْ مِن دُونِهِۦٓ أَوۡلِيَآءَۗ قَلِيلٗا مَّا تَذَكَّرُونَ]

“Follow, [O mankind], what has been revealed to you from your Lord and do not follow other than Him any allies. Little do you remember.” [Al-A’raf: Aya 3]

Those who oppose divine rulings will only find humiliation, misery, and loss. What happened to previous nations who refused revelation is a clear example. They were deprived of honor and strength, struck with humiliation and poverty, because they turned away from divine guidance. The same could happen to us if we follow their path, unless Allah (swt) grants us steadfastness. If you seek guidance, then discipline yourself to obey Allah (swt) and the Messenger (saw) no matter how it conflicts with your desires. Strive against your own inclinations and you will attain true submission and guidance from Allah (swt). The sweetness of obedience will heal your heart, and every wound you bear for HIS sake will be a mark of honor. And if you walk this path you will walk the path of the companions, the martyrs, and righteous. What an amazing path this would be!

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