Reflections on West Africa journey

 Introduction

As many of our readers know (such as our Facebook audience), I recently traveled to West Africa for the first time.  The destination was The Republic of Senegal.  Many people have been curious as to the motivation to travel to a place that is (in their eyes at least)  "off the beaten track" for a vacation.

My answer to this is that "vacations" are not always fun and games, at least for me. I am a student of many fields, my interests are deep and diverse, and among the best ways to learn and grow is to see with our own eyes, to have physical experiences beyond the study of texts, to step out of our comfort zones, at least once in a while. 

From a religious perspective, I believe this is one of the reasons that Hajj and 'Umrah are important. Muslims are commanded by the religion to make a pilgrimage a minimum of once in one's life, to Makkah, the site of the Ka'bah, the shrine built by the Prophet Abraham (Ibrahim, 'alayhis salaam). People from all places, classes, castes and walks of life are told by Allah to offer the pilgrimage rituals, in the same place, time, space, even in the same clothing (ihraam, for the men). All of humanity converge at that place, forcing us to interact, learn and cultivate relationships with one another. 

Thus, Senegal was, even from that perspective, a natural place of curiosity. It is a Muslim nation, with deep historical and cultural interests to someone like me .

(From top: site of the African Renaissance monument, walking in the streets of Dakar, minarets of the Grand Mosque of Touba city, a site revered by Senegalese.)

Spirituality

I found the people and culture to be very relaxed and an interest in spiritual development a normalized part of life. Everywhere we went we found people offering daily prayers, and the mosques are not only filled with worshipers, we were struck by the unique architecture and beauty of even the simple prayer halls.

West African Muslims generally follow the Maaliki madh-hab (school of jurisprudence) and Senegalese are typically associated with one of four Sufi orders, and this certainly reflected in the public display and practice of the religion, aspects which would be outside of the norm of experiences by those used to the format of practice in other Muslim contexts.

Recitation of religious songs (Qaseedahs, Nasheeds etc) is commonly heard throughout the country, and I have to admit a certain level of calm and peace can be found within the society. 

( Images from the neighborhood mosque, Masjid Al Multazim. Notice the unique architecture)

                                                     ( Images from The Mosque of the Divinity. French " Mosquée de la Divinité overlooking the Atlantic ocean. Built by locals, amazing architecture)

Goree Island

The most famous site we went to is Goree Island, a site roughly five miles off the coast from the capital. It was an important port in the slave trade, containing one of the "points of no return". The fortress there has displays explaining not only this history, but other interesting aspects as well, such as the evolution of man in the region, the arrival of Islam in the area, and so forth. 

The importance of travel in general

For African-Americans, traveling to West Africa in particular is important because it becomes a doorway of connection to the past. For Muslims of all backgrounds, I strongly recommend taking a trip to a place such as Senegal, as it would make a person appreciate a number of  points, including the global impact of Islam and how one's culture can be retained and enhanced (and not destroyed or enveloped into another system of thought).

The Qur'an repeatedly encourages traveling (Q 10:19, 3:189 et al), seeing other cultures helps to eliminate xenophobia, ignorance and arrogance. It is lamentable that many Americans don't even have passports and limit their travels.

If more people left their comfort zones, even if for a few days, it would broaden their minds in countless ways. Indeed, travel is even an activity which addresses issues such as depression, in particular by seeing and experiencing the natural world.

We have produced one video ( see here) from the Senegal trip, and soon will publish more, including a presentation hosted by the Divine Wisdom study group of Senegal on "The Relationship between Man and God". For updates, simply subscribe to our YouTube channel ( https://www.youtube.com/@Arifinlibrary) as well as this blog.

Identitying spiritual resources

 Just as those who work in public service realms often have the task of directing clients to resources suitable for their needs, the religion itself has built-in resources, designed to meet the intellectual and spiritual needs of all who care to derive benefit therefrom. Although an analogy, we can take it further and assert that the primary difference between the public service realm and religion is that the latter is (largely) self-driven, while the former will often have within it a highly regulated, organized program designed to meet the particular need of the client.

The purpose of this article is to direct the reader to some of those spiritual resources, available capital as presented from the religion of Islam. May Allah allow us to utilize those assets. 

During Isolation or persecution

"And when the servant of God stands up, (involved in) calling upon him, they almost became as a big crowd to suffocate him" (Q 72:19)

وَّاَنَّہٗ لَمَّا قَامَ عَبۡدُ اللّٰہِ یَدۡعُوۡہُ کَادُوۡا یَکُوۡنُوۡنَ عَلَیۡہِ لِبَدًا

It is necessary to understand that the messengers of God as well as the people dedicated to the right thing (saaleheen) have these sorts of experiences. Indeed, some of them were killed unjustly, as highlighted in scripture, and today often face the same threats. This verse also highlights the sense of isolation often felt by believers, when it seems that trying to be about what is right is deemed a fringe interest.

Part of the solution is present in this very text. The power of du'aa, salaah and the attitude of worship in general function as solutions to these feelings. Often there is the case of believers, who actually have imaan in Allah and the religion, yet they don't engage in salaah nor du'aa. These are resources that require no payment or much insofar as preparation. In other words, they are easy to access. The Qur'an reminds us that Allah responds to the call of all who call to him ( Q 2:186), that He is closer to man than the jugular vein (50:16), and that regardless of which direction one turns, God's presence is there. (Q 2:115).

The Qur'an says further (72:20) that proclaiming God's oneness, invoking him alone in worship, and avoiding idolatry (and the environment which cultivates idolatry) is the best formula to adhere to, especially in rough circumstances (ft.1)

The Qur'an gives a number of specific supplications to be recited as well as a number of stories that, in addition to invoking God, are designed to deliver confidence and drive to the believer. This includes, but is not limited to, the accounts of Ibrahim (Abraham), Moses, Joseph (Yusuf) and Jesus, may peace be upon them all. 

Other resources

(1) Maximizing the companionship of fellow believers: Communal prayers provide the best avenue for this, and in an Islamic context this happens not only on Fridays but has potential to happy every day five times daily in the mosques. The Prophet described congregational prayers as twenty-five times better in degree than if the same salaah was done alone. It is important here to mention the family relationships, particularly when sharing the same faith. Islam takes the position that those ties actually build up those spiritual resources. We have a hadeeth which describes marriage as half of one's religion, and indeed the maxim "the family that prays together, stays together"

(2) The natural world: Remember, the natural world was created by Allah. Our presentations have placed emphasis on this reality, the positive impact of seeing, breathing and hearing nature, on the soul. It is a great spiritual resource. Rivers, oceans. mountains, forests, etc. 

( From Top: Mount Charleston, Nevada, Superstitious Mountains, Arizona, and Lone Mountain, Nevada.)

(3) The Qur'an itself: Its regular recitation and reading, even if the translation is unavailable or not understood. While I have in the past suggested a minimum of ten verses daily, even less than that would be useful. It can be listened to sometimes while driving or in some other activity, and it certainly deserves to be read with meaning. If your community has a regular Qur'an study circle (halaqah), do join it. 

What does spiritual wealth look like?

In short, a person who seeks to have truth and a rich inner life should have within them the qualities of understanding, love, forgiveness, mercy, joy and general happiness. They should be open-minded, avoid being judgmental. They should also stay clear of addictions, have a clean life, in body, mind, soul and general surroundings. Things such as an organized home and a clean bedroom are actually important indicators of spiritual substance. 

The spiritually wealthy has a kind heart yet has strength. The Prophet Muhammad himself, peace be upon him, was very compassionate, yet also fought in battle. A spiritual person won't automatically be sinless or without faults. Indeed, Islam has a teaching that even Adam's sin, of disobeying God by his consumption of the forbidden fruit, not only was forgiven by God, but that God actually taught Adam how to do repentance (Qur'an 7:23). If the reality of our lack of perfection becomes recognized, accepted, this actually helps in spiritual growth. After all, only Allah is perfect!

Expecting perfection from others or even self can lead to unnecessary disappointments, creating excuses for stagnation and worse, destruction. Islam says strive to be better, but that doesn't necessarily translate into perfection!  It is important to not only engage in forgiveness of others, but also self-forgiveness. 

May God allow us to enjoy rich inner lives. Wa Billlaahit Tawfeeq.

Footnote

(1) It is important to note the context of Q 72:20 fits in an overall discussion on the occult. There is a clear connection to idolatry (shirk in Muslim parlance) and devilish forces. It is also noteworthy that the Qur'an connects shirk to injustice, for which see Shamsuddin Waheed: Only one God: forgotten aspects of Tauheed and its application

"Guide us on the straight path" -a brief look at Hidaayah

 Introduction

Daily, the practicing Muslim asks Allah for guidance during the recitation of Soorah Al-Faatihah. The text goes on to summarize what "the straight path" (As seeraat al mustaqeem) as the path which generates blessings from God (an'amta 'alayhim), provides immunization from that which brings forth Divine anger (al maghdoobi 'alayhim) as well as from that which will divert from God's plan (wa lad daal-leen)(ft.#1).

Soorah Al-Faatihah, being the first chapter of the Qur'an, functions as a preface to the rest of the scripture, as well as its obvious usage in prayer and supplication. While the subjects of divine anger and diversion from Allah are both topics of interest, it is prudent to focus on hidaayah. This word means "guidance", the most important gift that can be bestowed, particularly from the Creator. (ft.#2).

There are aspects of hidaayah that are highlighted in the Qur'an, these points are necessary to explore, because-seeing as the Qur'an is the words of Allah- such knowledge will prove very useful in identifying authentic guidance- in contrast to being totally lost. The scripture contains much more data in these regards, but we have- for this article- chosen points from selected references. 

Proper theological foundation

Repeatedly we face within the scripture the importance of understanding that God is the only one that deserves to be worshiped, that He has sent forth messengers and prophets to convey ethical and theological points. 

"So, if they (Ahlil Kitaab ft.#3) believe similar to what you (O Muslims) believe in, then they have received guidance..." (Q 2:137).

Just before the above text, an even more telling verse informs us "and they assert "be Jews or Christians, then you will be guided'. Say: Nay, (guidance is on) the path of Abraham (millat ibrahim), the upright, he was not of those who ascribe partners to God (mushrikeen) (ft.#4).

In a particular context (Q 6:88), we see that God's guidance is delivered by the messengers (starting from verse 84) and that ignoring that has the consequence of making one's actions useless in the Divine kingdom.

Some surprising elements that demonstrate hidaayah:

(1) Standing for justice.

(2) Abandonment of wrong cultural practices/thinking

(3) Seeing God's hand in all things.

(4) Traveling.

(5) Dignified appearance/dress and behavior. 

Some of the references for the above assertions can be found in the Qur'an in the following locations: 

(Q 7:30, 16:35-37, 20:50, 20:82, 5:8).

While all the above are important, I would like to place some emphasis on points 2, 4 and 5. The Prophets not only spoke on the spiritual, but they also have teachings that impact the earthly issues. They were often opposed because their teachings contradicted the social norms and expectations. The Prophet Muhammad taught against female infanticide, idolatry, and selfishness, all of which were problems in his community. Jesus taught against the abuse of mosaic law, which was used to disenfranchise and make people so rigid as to lose their humanity. 

Thus, by following the trend of the Prophets (upon whom be peace and blessings), we open ourselves to hidaayah.  On dress, the Qur'an says that the best of appearance is that which demonstrates awareness of God (Libaasut taqwaa, dhaalika khair Q 7:26). There is to be dignity in appearance and behavior.

Travel allows us to be exposed to that which we have not seen, it benefits the mind, body and soul, it exposes us to Allah's creation, to needed historical lessons, and countless other benefits. It also helps to destroy the trends of racism, xenophobia, and ignorance in general. The Qur'an has repeatedly stated that travel is something to be embarked upon. 

May Allah guide us among those who have been guided, bless us among those He has blessed.

Footnotes

(1) For more on Al-Faatihah itself, see Shamsuddin Waheed: Al-Faatihah: a re-examination (Halaqah notes)

(2) While hidaayah is the commonly used term for "guidance" in Arabic (and other languages), the Qur'an often uses the term "hudaa". 

(3) "Ahlil Kitaab" means "people of scripture", a term applied to Jews and Christians (although jurists applied it to followers of other faiths as well). The interpolation is present based on the text in Q 2:135-(as well as overall context) which clearly addresses these religious groups. Q 2:137 is saying that if these folks accept what Muslims accept, i.e. that God's communications also include the Qur'anic revelation to the Prophet Muhammad, this would be a clear-cut indicator that they have been guided. 

(4) "Shirk" is not limited to idolatry. Consistently, the Qur'an connects it to being unjust in the world. For which, see 3:18 as well as Shamsuddin Waheed: Only one God: forgotten aspects of Tauheed and its application

Abraham: father of all nations, a goodly model

There is for you an excellent example (to follow) in Abraham and those with him..[Qur'an 60:4]

'Eid Ul-Ad-haa, Imams and orators worldwide undoubtedly mentioned the story of the sacrifice, as given in scripture, wherein Abraham was ready to take the life of his son in response to a vision interpreted to have been from God. Another theme usually explored is when he left his son and Hagar [Hajar] in the desert to fend for themselves. This particular narrative has it that during the process of searching for water for her infant son, Hagar ran bath and forth seven times, and at the end, almost in a miracle fashion, the well appears. Indeed, Muslims re enact this event during the Hajj [Pilgrimage] at the Safa and Marwa trails [which has now been included in the complex of the Masjid Al-Haraam], the well itself still giving water, known as ZamZam water.[Ft.1]

Yet, there is something to be said of other aspects of the life of Abraham, who is called in the scripture of the Jews and the Christians "father of all nations" [ Genesis 17:5].

Origins of Abraham

Called Ibrahim in Arabic, tradition has it that he was born in Southern Iraq, although there does exist other places, in Northern Iraq, Turkey and even Sicily. Regardless of where he was born, eventually he found his ways to such diverse places as Egypt, Palestine, and Arabia. Sites in all those places, not the least of which is the Ka'bah at Makkah, are associated with him.

Is there a lesson in these sites?

The Qur'an tells us a very interesting observation, one which should be associated with Abraham, but also with seekers of truth and guidance in all times, places and among all peoples.

"Have they not traveled in the land so that their hearts will come to understand, or that their ears will come to hear?"[ Qur'an 22:46]

Travel is very important, for the sake of religious or spiritual knowledge. This is something that seems to have been universally recognized, when we notice adherents of Hinduism, Christianity, Islam, going forth from country to country to study with respected spiritual figures. Reading books, or even studying at a local university, are all wonderful acts, acts which can produce blessings and appropriate information, but nothing can beat leaving the comforts of one's home and family for the sake of attaining knowledge.

The journey itself is a learning experience, be it meeting interesting people at airports, or having some time in isolation while in transit to deeply contemplate the pressing concerns of the body, soul and mind.

Whatever one thinks of Abraham, the towering figure in the three monotheistic traditions, this aspect of his existence cannot be denied. This is, of course, especially true for the Muslim, the reader of the Qur'an.

This author has done, and continues to, much traveling, and the above mentioned Quranic verse is very true. Many times we cannot process the information or insight someone gives us [or that we read in a book, magazine or website] until we have the same, or a similar experience, or a set of experiences.

So, on this occasion of 'Eid ul-Ad-haa[ft.2], let us try to emulate the goodly model present in Ibrahim ['Alayhis salaam]. Attain whatever knowledge we can from our scholars, books and websites. But always be prepared to learn something from one's one experiences, or the experiences of other people. There is much insight to be gained from travels of this nature.

Role of the Qur'an

The word Qur'an itself means a reading, a recital. It has the sense of "something put together piece by piece, part by part." This is a very appropriate name, as it was revealed to the Prophet Muhammad [Sall-Allahu 'alayhi wa sallam] slowly, over a period of twenty-three years.

The Qur'an serves many roles, but for the sake of this article, we want to emphasis that it serves as a guide to make its reader a bit more sophisticated, well-rounded, knowledgeable. It is an undeniable fact that it can be speaking of theology for several verses, and then turn to a completely different subject such as war or marriage.

Those with broad knowledge in various fields, who have lived and traveled in many places, learning languages and cultures alien to their native backround, can appreciate such a guide as the Qur'an.

In issues not addressed in the Qur'an, God allows us to figure it out on our own, we can access some guidance or precedent in the reliable sources about the Prophet Muhammad [the last Prophet, and universal messenger], we can access guidance [or perhaps assistance is a better word] from our collectives experiences present in our culture, our personal reading of the situation [as well as our reading of the goal of religion] to ascertain the proper way to proceed.

In any case, all of that comes from having a broad experience, an open mind, open ears and open heart.

The Qur'an is very suitable for our guidance because we, like the last book of Allah itself, have been put together piece by piece, part by part. We are born as babies and absorb everything while growing up. Our parents and societies give us the foundation and much assistance, but there are times when we will have to learn lessons on our own, because our own mistakes will teach us how to act in the future. Our own actions will be suitable to serve as precedent, and each time that occurs, as far as the Qur'an goes, we can come to appreciate, nay, understand, texts better. It will grow in meaning for us.



Endnotes

[1] This author has examined in great detail the Qur'anic presentation of Abraham's story of the sacrifice in the work The Languuge of Revelation [pg. 237 "Abraham"]. To obtain, go to www.arifinimports.com

[2] The significance of the 'Eid-Ul Ad-haa occasion has been addressed in a lecture and Q & A session called "The story and sacrifice", available for free at www.esnips.com/web/shamsuddinwsStuff.