June 2002: Page 1, 2, 3, 4

Submitters Perspective

Page 3

Inviting to God

Cont’d from page 1

This continual support is especially encouraged for members of your own family as we read in 20:132: “You shall enjoin your family to observe the contact prayers (Salat), and steadfastly persevere in doing so…

Of course, there are some common sense signs that tell you when to stop. If the person starts to fight you verbally or threatens you, it is time to walk away. Your job is complete. Even as you part ways, you should remember not to use insults as mentioned in 73:10: “And remain steadfast in the face of their utterances, and disregard them in a nice manner.” Chapter 109 gives you the perfect words to use. What do you gain by labeling the person or condemning them? God is the Ultimate Judge and is fully aware of their destiny (6:62).

The best thing you can do is to continue setting an example that will speak God’s message without having to use words. You will set this example by following the same guidance that you are shar-ing from the Quran. Pray to God for the guidance of those you are inviting and remember that your only duty is to provide informa-tion in the best manner possible. Even if the person decides to turn away, you have done your job ac-cording to God’s design. As men-tioned in verse 41:33: “Who can utter better words than one who invites to GOD, works righteous-ness, and says, “I am one of the submitters?

Finally, I will leave you with a beautiful example of how Noah shared God’s message with his people.

He said, “My Lord, I have invited my people night and day. But my invitation only increased their aversion. Whenever I invited them to be forgiven by You, they placed their fingers in their ears, covered themselves with their clothes, in-sisted, and turned arrogant. Then I invited them publicly. Then I proclaimed to them loudly, and I

spoke to them privately. I said, ‘Implore your Lord for forgive-ness; He is Forgiving. He will then shower you generously with rain. And provide you with money and children, and orchards, and streams.’ ” (71:5-12)

 

Amir K