Who Do You Love

WHO DO YOU LOVE?
ON LOVE
When pen is put to paper and writes about love, it breaks in two. Love is truly a powerful, unique and irresistible force
or feeling. When we try and express our love, we find it very hard to find the right words. The expressions we use do
not fully represent what is burning deep down inside our hearts. This may explain why we associate love with actions
and not just words. We embrace each other, buy our loved ones gifts, send our partners a bunch of flowers, or take
them out for a romantic dinner. Love is not just an internal feeling; it is also a way of being, a way of behaving. The
psychologist Erich Fromm aptly described love in the following way:
“Love is an activity, not a passive effect; it is a “standing in,” not a “falling for”. In the most general way, the active
character of love can be described by stating that love is primarily giving, not receiving.”[1]
There are many levels and types of love. Various thinkers, philosophers and psychologists have spoken about love. The
terms they have used and the approaches they have taken differ, but we can generally understand the different types of
love in the following way:
 Natural Love: We all experience natural love. This type of love relates to loving our family. We love our families due
to shared personal, private and familial experiences. This love is also built on a sense of identity and belonging.
 Friendly Love: This love is the type of love we experience amongst friends. We fall in love with our friends due to our
shared experiences, common interests, beliefs, passions and activities.
 Passionate Love: Love between partners is considered a passionate type of love. This type of love can be found
between husband and wife, and it is not to be confused with lust. This love sees the beloved as the source of their
pleasure, comfort and security. Passionate lovers tend to see their pleasure and happiness in the pleasure and
happiness of their beloved. The ancient Greek philosopher Aristotle referred to this type of love as two bodies and
one soul.
 Selfless Love: Another type of love is a love that is not based on circumstances and is freely given regardless of context.
This type of love is associated with the love we receive from our mothers. Their love is not based on us loving them
back or on the way we behave. Mothers simply love without being loved back. A mother’s love is selfless; she sacrifices
many of her desires and needs for her children.
“WE LOVE LIFE, NOT BECAUSE WE ARE USED TO LIVING BUT BECAUSE WE ARE USED TO
LOVING.” FRIEDRICH NIETZSCHE
Imagine a life without love or being loved. Is that a life worth living? Everything is barren if we don’t feel love or give
love. Without love, our lives become like the dry, lifeless earth. With love, our lives are like a lush green garden enjoying
growth, fruits and harmony.
Love gives us life, and a life without love is a not a life at all.
LOVING OURSELVES, LOVING GOD

Another type of love includes self-love. This love occurs due to the desire to prolong our existence, feel pleasure and
avoid pain, as well as the need to satisfy our human needs and motivations. We all have this natural love for ourselves
because we want to be happy and content. The psychologist Erich Fromm argued that loving oneself is not a form of
arrogance or egocentricity. Rather, self-love is about caring, taking responsibility and having respect for ourselves. This
type of love is necessary in order to love others. If we cannot love ourselves, how then can we love other people? There
is nothing closer to us than our own selves, if we cannot care for and respect ourselves, how then can we care for and
respect others? Loving oneself is a form of self-empathy. We empathise and connect with our own feelings, thoughts and
aspirations. If we cannot empathise and connect with our own selves, how then can we empathise and connect with
others?
“The idea expressed in the biblical “Love thy neighbour you as love thy self!” implies that respect for one’s own integrity
and uniqueness, love for an understanding of one’s own self, cannot be separated from respect and love and
understanding for another individual.”[2]
If a person’s love for himself is necessary, this should lead him to love the One who made him. Why? Because it is God
who created the physical causes and means in order for human beings to achieve happiness, pleasure and to avoid pain.
It is God who has freely given us every precious moment of our existence, yet we do not earn or own these moments.
Given that the English word for love encompasses a range of meanings, the best way to elaborate on the Islamic
conception of God’s love is to explain His mercy (rahmah) and His special love (muwadda).
1. Mercy: It is said that another word for love is mercy. One of God’s names is The-Merciful; the Arabic word used is Ar-
Rahman. The translation does not fully represent the depth and intensity that the meaning of this word carries. The
name Ar-Rahman has three major connotations: the first is that God’s mercy is an intense mercy; the second is that His
mercy is an immediate mercy; and the third is a mercy so powerful that nothing can stop it. God’s mercy encompasses
all things and He wants people to be guided. In God’s book, the Qur’an, He says:
“…but My mercy encompasses all things…” The Qur’an, Chapter 7, Verse 156
“It is the Lord of Mercy who taught the Qur’an.” The Qur’an, Chapter 55, Verses 1-2
In the above verse, God says He is The-Merciful, which can be understood as the “Lord of Mercy”, and that He taught
the Qur’an. This is a linguistic indication to highlight that the Qur’an was revealed as a manifestation of God’s mercy. In
other words, the Qur’an is like one big love letter to humanity. Just like with true love, the lover wants good for the
beloved, and warns them of pitfalls and obstacles, and shows them the way to happiness. The Qur’an is not different: it
calls out to humanity, and it also warns and expresses glad tidings.
2. Special Love: According to the Qur’an, God is The-Loving. The Arabic name is Al-Wadud. This refers to a special love
that is apparent. Hence it comes from the word wud, which means expressing love through the act of giving.
“And He is the Forgiving, The Loving.” The Qur’an, Chapter 85, Verse 14
God’s love transcends any of the types of love mentioned previously. His love is greater than all worldly and human
forms of love – even motherly love. God is an independent being who is self-sufficient and perfect. He doesn’t need or
require anything. A mother’s love, although selfless, is based on her internal need to love her child. It completes her
and through her sacrifices she feels whole and fulfilled. However, God’s love is not based on a need or want; it is
therefore the purest form of love, because He gains absolutely nothing from loving.
In this light, how can we not love the One who is more loving than anything we can imagine? The Prophet Muhammad
‫ ﷺ‬said,
“God is more affectionate to His servants than a mother to her young ones.”[3]
If God is the most loving, and His love is greater than the greatest worldly love we have experienced, this should instil in
us a deeper and further love for God. Significantly, this should make us want to love Him by being one of His servants.
The eleventh century theologian, Al-Ghazali, aptly said,
“For those endowed with insight, there is in reality no object of love but God, nor does anyone but He deserve love.”[4]
From a spiritual perspective, God’s love is the greatest blessing anyone can ever achieve, as it is a source of internal
tranquillity, serenity, and eternal bliss in the hereafter. Not loving God is not only a form of ingratitude, but the greatest
form of hate. Not loving the One who created love and is the source of love itself is a rejection of that which enables
love to occur and fill our hearts.
God cannot force His special love on us. Although, via His mercy, He lovingly gives us every moment of our lives, to fully
embrace God’s love and be recipients of His special love, one must enter into a relationship with Him. It is as if God’s
love is waiting for us to embrace it. However, we have closed the door and put up the shutters. If God were to force His
special love on us, love would lose all meaning. We have the choice; to follow the right path and thereby gain God’s
special love, or reject His guidance and face the spiritual consequences.
The most loving Being wants to love you with His special love, but in order to fully embrace that love, and for it to be
meaningful, you have to love Him and follow the path that leads to His love.
LOVING GOD, LOVING THE PROPHET

How do we fully embrace and earn God’s special love? The Qur’an makes it very clear on how to love God. It is to
follow and love the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬:
“Say to them: If you love God, follow me, and God will love you.” The Qur’an, Chapter 3 verse 31
Following and loving the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬is necessary because embodied in his life, teachings and actions is the
path to God. His life reveals the application of the Qur’an and its teachings, through which we attain God’s love.
Through the teachings and actions of the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬, we are taught how to worship and have a relationship
with God. He taught that worshipping God involves loving, knowing and obeying Him. Worshipping God includes praying
five times a day, fasting, reading and pondering over the meanings of the Qur’an, remembering God, giving charity, taking
care of others and loving for others what we love for ourselves. These acts of worship are categorised as obligatory and
supererogatory. Essentially they are spiritual tools that facilitate closeness with God and Divine love. The Prophet
Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬said that God said:
“My servant does not draw near to Me with anything more beloved to Me than the religious duties that I have imposed
upon him; and My servant continues to draw closer to Me with supererogatory works so that I would love him.” [5]
God is telling us that to come close to Him and love Him we must worship Him. Understanding how to worship Him
requires that we follow the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬. Therefore, following the Prophet is a gateway to God’s special love.
The fourteenth century theologian Ibn al-Qayyim said:

“There is no doubt that perfect servitude to God is part of perfect love, and perfect love is connected to the perfection of
the Beloved in and of Himself, for Allah, may He be glorified, is completely and absolutely perfect in all aspects, and could
not possibly have any imperfections whatsoever. For one who is like this, nothing can be dearer to people’s hearts than
Him; so long as their basic nature and reason are sound, it is inevitable that He will be the dearest of all things to their
hearts. Undoubtedly love of Him leads to submission and obedience to Him, seeking His pleasure, doing one’s utmost in
worship of Him and turning to Him. This is the best and strongest motive to do acts of worship.” [6]
Following God’s guidance by following the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬is therefore a means to paradise, eternal bliss and Divine mercy.
A man once asked the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬about the Day of Judgment saying:
“When will the hour be?”
The Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬replied,
“What have you prepared for it?”
The man replied,
“Nothing, except that I love God and His Apostle.”
The Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬said,
“You will be with those whom you love.” [7]
Hence, faith cannot be complete without loving the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬more than anything in this world:
“No, by Him in Whose Hand my soul is, (you will not have complete faith) till I am dearer to you than your own self.” [8]
How can we not love the man that is the means to Divine love and eternal happiness? Fundamentally, how can we not
love a man that God loves?
To love God we have to love what He loves.

A MERCY TO MANKIND
Muslims love all the Prophets because of who they were. They were the closest to God and a means to God’s mercy and
love. They had the best of characters and sacrificed so much in order for us to be recipients of this spiritual and moral
guidance. All of the prophets, including Jesus, Moses, Abraham and David, are loved, honoured and respected. However,
the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬is specifically described by God as having an exalted character, being the best of examples,
and a mercy to humanity.
“It was only as a mercy that We sent you to all people” The Qur’an, Chapter 21, Verse 107
“And you (stand) on an exalted standard of character.” The Qur’an, Chapter 68, Verse 4
“The messenger of God is an excellent model for those of you who put your hope in God and the Last Day and
remember Him often.” The Qur’an, Chapter 33, Verse 21
When you consider the teachings and the qualities of the character of the Prophet Muhammad, ‫ ﷺ‬you would agree with
why God described him in that way.
Here are some examples of the teachings of the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬:
MERCY & COMPASSION

“The Merciful One shows mercy to those who are themselves merciful (to others). So show mercy to whatever is on
earth, then He who is in heaven will show mercy to you.”[9]
“God is compassionate and loves compassion.”[10]
“He is not of us who has no compassion for our little ones and does not honour our old ones.”[11]
“May God have mercy on a man who is kind when he buys, when he sells, and when he makes a demand.”[12]
CONTENTMENT & SPIRITUALITY

“Richness is not having many possessions. Rather, true richness is the richness of the soul.”[13]
“Indeed, God does not look towards your bodies nor towards your appearances. But, He looks towards your
hearts.”[14]
“Do not talk too much without remembrance of God. Indeed excessive talking without remembrance of God hardens
the heart. And indeed the furthest of people from God are the harsh-hearted.”[15]
“Be mindful of God, you will find Him before you. Get to know God in prosperity and He will know you in adversity.
Know that what has passed you by was not going to befall you; and that what has befallen you was not going to pass
you by. And know that victory comes with patience, relief with affliction, and ease with hardship.”[16]
“Islam has been built on five [pillars]: testifying that there is no deity worthy of worship except God and that
Muhammad is the Messenger of God, establishing the prayer, paying the obligatory charity, making the pilgrimage to
the House, and fasting in Ramadan.”[17]
“God, the Exalted, has said: ‘O son of Adam, I forgive you as long as you pray to Me and hope for My forgiveness,
whatever sins you have committed. O son of Adam, I do not care if your sins reach the height of the heaven, then you
ask for my forgiveness, I would forgive you. O son of Adam, if you come to Me with an earth load of sins, and meet Me
associating nothing to Me, I would match it with an earth load of forgiveness.’”[18]
“God said: ‘I am as My servant thinks I am. I am with him when he makes mention of Me. If he makes mention of Me
to himself, I make mention of him to Myself. And if he makes mention of Me in an assembly, I make mention of him in
an assembly better than it. And if he draws near to Me a hand’s span, I draw near to him an arm’s length. And if he
draws near to Me an arm’s length, I draw near to him a fathom’s length. And if he comes to Me walking, I go to him
at speed.’”[19]
LOVE
“By the one who has my soul in His hand, you will not enter the Garden until you believe, and you will not believe until
you love one another. Shall I point out to you something, which will make you love one another if you do it? Make the
greeting of peace be widespread among you.”[20]
“The servant does not reach the reality of faith until he loves for the people what he loves for himself of goodness.”[21]
“Love for the people what you love for yourself and you will be a believer. Behave well with your neighbours and you
will be a Muslim.”[22]
“There have come to you the diseases of the nations before you: envy and hatred, and hatred is the razor. It shaves the
religion and it does not shave hair. By the one in whose hand is the soul of Muhammad, you will not believe until you
love one another. Shall I tell you something which, if you did, you would love each other? Spread peace between
yourselves.”[23]
“None of you has faith until he loves for the people what he loves for himself.”[24]
“When a man loves his brother he should tell him that he loves him.”[25]
“Love for the people what you love for yourself.”[26]

COMMUNITY & PEACE
“What sort of deeds or traits of Islam are good?” The Messenger of God replied: “To feed others, and to greet those
whom you know and those whom you do not know.”[27]
“He who makes peace between the people by inventing good information or saying good things, is not a liar.”[28]
“By God, he does not (truly) believe! By God, he does not (truly) believe! By God, he does not (truly) believe! Someone
asked: ‘Who, o Messenger of God?’ He said: ‘He whose neighbour is not safe from his mischief.’”[29]
“All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority
over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over a black nor a black has any superiority over a white except by piety
and good action.”[30]
“The believer is not he who eats his fill while his neighbour is hungry.”[31]
CHARITY & HUMANITARIANISM

“God said: “Spend (i.e. on charity), O son of Adam, and I shall spend on you.”[32]
“Charity does not diminish wealth.”[33]
“Visit the sick, feed the hungry and free the captives.”[34]
“Make things easy, and do not make them difficult, and give good tidings and do not make people run away.”[35]
“Give the labourer his wages before his sweat dries.”[36]
“Every act of goodness is charity.”[37]
CHARACTER & MANNERS

“The believers who show the most perfect faith are those who have the best character, and the best of you are those
who are best to their wives.”[38]
“(God) has revealed to me that you should adopt humility so that no one oppresses another.”[39]
“Neither nurse grudge nor sever (the ties of kinship), nor nurse enmity, and become as fellow brothers and servants of
God.”[40]
“He who truly believes in God and the last Day, should speak good or keep silent.”[41]
“The best among you is he who has the best manners.”[42]
“Beware of suspicion, for suspicion is the worst of false tale.”[43]
“The strong man is not the one who is strong in wrestling, but the one who controls himself in anger.”[44]
ENVIRONMENT AND ANIMALS

“If the Hour (the day of Resurrection) is about to be established and one of you was holding a palm shoot, let him take
advantage of even one second before the Hour is established to plant it.”[45]
“If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and then a bird, or a person or an animal eats from it, it is regarded as a
charitable gift (sadaqah) for him.”[46]
“Removing harmful things from the road is an act of charity.”[47]
The companions asked the Prophet Muhammad , ‘O God’s Messenger! Is there a reward for us in serving the animals?”
He replied: “There is a reward for serving any living being.”[48]
“Whoever kills a sparrow or anything bigger than that without a just cause, God will hold him accountable on the Day
of Judgment.”[49]
“A prostitute saw a dog lolling around a well on a hot day and hanging his tongue from thirst. She drew some water
for it in her shoe, so God forgave her.”[50]
Abdullah ibn Amr ibn Al-`Aas (may God be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet passed one day by Sa`d ibn Abi
Waqas (may God be pleased with him) while he was performing wudu’ (ritual ablution). The prophet asked Sa’d, “Why
is this wastage?” Sa’d replied “Is there wastage in wudu also?" The Prophet said, ‘Yes, even if you are at a flowing
river.”[51]
Here are some examples of the qualities of the character of the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬:
FORBEARANCE, FORGIVENESS AND COMPASSION

It was related that when the Prophet had his tooth broken and his face cut during one of the battles when he was
defending the Muslims and non-Muslims under his protection, his companions asked him to curse the aggressors.
However he replied,
“I was not sent to curse, but I was sent as a summoner and as a mercy. O God, guide my people for they do not
know.”[52]
Anas Ibn Malik said,
“I served the Messenger of God, may God bless him and grant him peace, for ten years and he never said ‘Uff!’ to me.
He did not say about anything I had done, ‘Why did you do it?’ or about anything I had not done, ‘Why didn’t you do
it?’”[53]
Anas said,
“I was with the Prophet, may God bless him and grant him peace, when he was wearing a thick cloak. a bedouin pulled
him so violently by his cloak that the edge of the cloak made a mark on the side of his neck. Then he said, ‘Muhammad!
Let me load up these two camels of mine with the property of God you have in your possession! You will not let me
load up from your property or your father’s property.’ The Prophet was silent and then he said, ‘Shall I take retaliation
from you, bedouin, for what you have done to me?’ He repled, ‘No.’ The Prophet asked, ‘Why not?’ The bedouin
replied, ‘Because you do not repay back a bad action with a bad action.’ The Prophet laughed and ordered that one
camel be loaded up with barely and the other with camel dates.”[54]
Once a man demanding repayment for a debt seized hold of the Prophet Muhammad and behaved very badly. The
Prophet’s companion was present and chased him off and spoke harshly to him. However the Prophet said,
“He and I needed something else from you. Command me to repay well and command him to ask for his debt well.”
The Prophet repaid the loan and added more to it due to the fact that his companion alarmed him.
The man, known as Zayd Ibn Sa’na, later became a Muslim. Zayd explains,
“There were only two remaining signs of Prophethood which I had not yet recognised in Muhammad or notice:
forbearance overcoming quick-temperedness and extreme ignorance only increasing him in forbearance. I tested him
for these and I found him as described.”[55]
Anas Ibn Malik recalls the compassion of the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬towards children:
“I never saw anyone who was more compassionate towards children than God’s Messenger.” [56]
The Prophet’s companions were killed and tortured. He was boycotted, starved and abused. There were so many
injustices and wrong committed against the Prophet and his followers. However when he peacefully took Mecca, known
as the conquest of Mecca, he delivered a universal forgiveness and pardon. He described the day as a day of,
“...piety, faithfulness and loyalty.”[57]
APPEARANCE AND APPROACHABILITY

The Prophet Muhammad’s ‫ ﷺ‬companions narrate about his appearance:
Abdullah Ibn al-Harith said:
“I did not see anyone who smiled more than the Messenger of God.”[58]
Al-Baraa’ Ibn ‘Aazib narrated:
“The Messenger of God ‫ ﷺ‬was the most handsome of all people, and had the best appearance.”[59]
Jaabir Ibn Samurah narrated:
“I saw the Messenger of God ‫ ﷺ‬on a brightly moonlit night wearing a red garment. Then I started looking at him and
at the moon. And for me, he was more beautiful than the moon.”[60]
‘Ali Ibn Abi Talib narrated:
“Those who saw him suddenly stood in awe of him and those who shared his acquaintanceship loved him. Those who
described him said they had never seen anyone like him before or since. ”[61]
‘Umm Ma’bad Al-Khuza’iyah described to her husband what the Prophet (peace be upon him looked like:
“He was innocently bright and had broad countenance. His manners were fine. Neither his belly bulging out nor was
his head deprived of hair. He has black attractive eyes finely arched by continuous eyebrows. His hair glossy and black,
inclined to curl, he wore long. His was extremely commanding. His head was large, well formed and set on a slender
neck. His expression was pensive and contemplative, serene and sublime. The stranger was fascinated from the
distance, but no sooner he became intimate with him than this fascinations was changed into attachment and respect.
His expression was very sweet and distinct. His speech was well set and free from the use of superfluous words, as if
it were a rosary of beads. His stature was neither too high nor too small to look repulsive…He was always surrounded
by his Companions. Whenever he uttered something, the listeners would hear him with rapt attention and whenever
he issued any command, they vied with each other in carrying it our. He was a master and commander. His utterances
were marked by truth and sincerity, free from all kinds of falsehoods and lies.”[62]
HUMILITY AND MODESTY

“Do not exaggerate in praising me as the Christians praised the son of Mary, for I am only a Slave. So, call me the Slave
of God and His Apostle.”[63]
The Prophet’s ‫ ﷺ‬wife, Aishah (may God be pleased with her) was asked:
“What did God’s messenger do at home?”

She said:
“He was like any other human being, cleaning and mending his garment, milking the goat, mending his shoes, serving
himself, and be of service to his family, till he hears the call to prayer, then he goes out [to pray in the mosque].”[64]
“I am but a man like yourselves. I am prone to forget just as you are.”[65]
When the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬saw a man trembling with fear when he saw him, he said to him:
“Relax I am not a king, I am the son of a woman from Quraysh [an Arab people] who would eat dried/jerked meat.”[66]
The Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬would invoke his lord saying:
“O God, make me live humbly and make me die humbly, and gather me among the humble on the day of
resurrection.”[67]
Abu Sa‘eed al-Khudri said,
“I saw the messenger of God ‫ ﷺ‬prostrating in mud and water such that I saw the marks of mud on his forehead.”[68]
Anas said,
“The Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬would be invited to eat barley bread and rancid fat and he would accept it.”[69]
Aisha (may God be pleased with her) said,
“At our home (that is, the home of the Holy Prophet’s household), fire would not be kindled (sometimes) for a whole
month; we subsisted merely on water and dates.”[70]
THE TRUTH OF HIS MESSAGE

What ties all of what has been mentioned so far is the truth of the Prophet Muhammad’s ‫ ﷺ‬message. If what he called
for was based on a lie, then loving him and appreciating his character has no real basis. It just becomes another legend,
fairy-tale or fiction. Conversely, if we can show that the Prophet’s message was a truthful one, then not only must we
follow him, but we must love him too. Following him and loving him is a window to God’s love, and the one who has
attained God’s love is the one whose heart reflects Divine mercy, guidance and tranquillity.
The Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬claimed prophethood over 1400 years ago with the following simple yet profound message:
There is none worthy to be worshipped but God, and the Prophet Muhammad is the final messenger of God.
The Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬became a prophet at the age of 40 after spending some time meditating and reflecting in a
cave outside of Mecca. The dawn of prophethood began with the revelation of the first verses of the Qur’an. The Qur’an’s
message was simple: our ultimate purpose in life is to worship God. Worship is a comprehensive term in the Islamic
spiritual tradition. It means to love, know and obey God.
“There is no one to worship and no one to love other than Him.”[71]
To test whether his claim to prophethood and his message was true, we must rationally investigate the historical
narratives and testimonies concerning the life of the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬. Once we do this, we will be in a position to come to a
balanced conclusion in this regard.
DID HE LIE?
His Trustworthiness
Early historical sources on the Prophet Muhammad’s ‫ ﷺ‬life illustrate and emphasise the integrity of his character. He
was not a liar and to assert as much is indefensible. The reasons for this abound, for instance he was known even by the
enemies to his message as the “Trustworthy”[72].
The Prophet Muhammad’s message undermined and challenged the economic and power structures of society. Seventh
century Meccan society was based on trade and commerce. The leaders of Meccan society would attract these traders
with the 360 idols they had in the Ka’bah – the cube-shaped structure built by Abraham as a house of worship. The
Prophet’s message was simple yet it powerfully challenged seventh century Arabian polytheism. The leaders of that
society initially mocked him, thinking the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬would not have an impact. However, as his message was gradually
taking root with high profile conversions, the leadership started to abuse the Prophet, both emotionally and physically.
He was persecuted for his beliefs; boycotted and exiled from his beloved city – Mecca. He was starved of food and stoned
by children to the point where blood drenched his legs. His wife passed away and his beloved companions were tortured
and persecuted.[73] Further proof of the Prophet’s ‫ ﷺ‬reliability and credibility is enforced and substantiated by the fact
that a liar usually lies for some worldly gain. Muhammad suffered tremendously for his message[74] and outrightly
rejected the riches and power he was offered to stop promulgating his message. He was uncompromising in his call to
God’s oneness.
Montgomery Watt, the late Emeritus Professor in Arabic and Islamic Studies explores this in Muhammad at Mecca:
“His readiness to undergo persecution for his beliefs, the high moral character of the men who believed in him and looked
up to him as a leader, and the greatness of his ultimate achievement – all argue his fundamental integrity. To suppose
Muhammad an impostor raises more problems than it solves.”[75]
WAS HE DELUDED?
His Life Experiences
There were many experiences during the prophetic career of the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬that, if he were deluded, he
would have used to support his delusion. One example is the passing away of the Prophet’s ‫ ﷺ‬son, Ibrahim. The young
boy died at an early age and the day he died there was a solar eclipse. Many of the Arabs thought that it was God that
had made the eclipse happen because His prophet’s son passed away. If the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬was deluded, he would have
used such an experience to reinforce his claim. However, he did not and rejected the people’s assertions. The Prophet
replied to them in the following way:
“The sun and the moon do not eclipse because of the death of someone from the people but they are two signs amongst
the signs of Allah. When you see them stand up and pray.”[76]
His Prophecies
If someone is deluded, they have a strong conviction in a belief despite there being evidence to the contrary. The
teachings of Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬are not that of someone who is deluded. Amongst many of his teachings, he taught how to
perfect good character and be of service to others. Another way of looking at the issue of delusion is that when someone
is deluded they speak falsehood whilst believing it to be true. To undermine this claim, the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬foretold of many
things that would occur to him and his community after him, pertaining to victory, and the removal of tyrannical
kingdoms. These events occurred exactly as Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬foretold, and this is not something that is congruent with a
deluded individual. There were a number of instances when this occurred. For example:
His daughter Fatima (may God be pleased with her) would join him first of all after his death:
“Before his death, the Messenger called his daughter Fatima to his bedside and informed her that she would be the
first among his family to join him after his death. Fatima joined her father, the pride of mankind, six months later.”[77]
The Mongol invasion:
“The Hour will not be established till you fight with the Khudh and the Kirman from among the non-Arabs. They will be
of red faces, flat noses and small eyes; their faces will look like flat shields, and their shoes will be of hair.”[78]
Competing in the constructing tall buildings:
“Now, tell me of the Last Hour,” asked the man.
The Prophet replied, “The one asked knows no more of it than the one asking.”
“Then tell me about its signs,” said the man.
The Prophet replied, “That you see barefoot, unclothed bedouins competing in the construction of tall buildings.”[79]
Notice the detail in the prophecy, a specific people (the Arab bedouins of the region) were identified. Prophet
Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬could have easily played it safe by using more general language such as “That you see competition in the
construction of tall buildings…” which of course would be flexible enough to be applied to anyone in the world. Today we
find in the Arabian Peninsula, the Arabs who used to be impoverished herders of camels and sheep are competing in
building the tallest tower blocks. Today the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is the world's tallest man-made
structure at 828 metres.[80] A short time after it was finished, a rival family in Saudi Arabia already announced that they
will build a taller one (1000 metres) the Kingdom Tower — currently estimated to be completed in 2019 and thus literally
competing with each other over who can build the tallest building.[81]
Now what’s remarkable is that up until only 50 or 60 years ago, the people of the region hardly had any houses at all. In
fact, most of them were still Bedouins, living in tents. It was only the discovery of oil in the 20th century that led to the
prosperity and transformation of the region. Were it not for oil, chances are the region would still be the barren desert
that it was at the time of the revelation of the Qur’an. If this were mere guesswork on his part, the discovery of oil would
represent a massive stroke of luck. Moreover, if Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬were merely guessing, wouldn’t it have made
more sense to relate this prophecy to the superpowers of his time – Rome and Persia – who (unlike the Arabs) already
had a tendency to construct extravagant buildings and palaces?[82]
WAS HE BOTH DELUDED AND A LIAR?

It is not possible for an individual to be both deluded and a liar. Lying is something done with intent, whereas a delusion
stems from an individual’s belief of an altered reality. The two are diametrically opposed phenomena. So it is logically
impossible, as the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬could not have been convinced that he was speaking the truth and yet it was
based on falsehood, and at the same time pretend to be speaking the truth but yet it being based on a lie!
WAS HE SPEAKING THE TRUTH?

Dr. William Draper in History of Intellectual Development of Europe wrote:
“Four years after the death of Justinian, A.D. 569, was born in Mecca, in Arabia, the man who, of all men, has exercised
the greatest influence upon the human race… To be the religious head of many empires, to guide the daily life of one-third
of the human race, may perhaps justify the title of a Messenger of God.”[83]
In light of addressing the other options, it can be argued the quote above represents the most rational conclusion.
IN THEIR WORDS
Thinkers, philosophers and commentators have studied the life of the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬and this is what they had
to say:
Hans Kung (Swiss Christian philosopher and ecumenical Catholic theologian)
“We must affirm that he acted as a prophet and that he was a prophet. we must correct our attitude toward Islam.”[84]
Jules Masserman (psychoanalyst and professor of the Chicago University)
“Perhaps the greatest leader of all times was Mohammad, who combined all the three functions . To a lesser degree
Moses did the same.”[85]
Alphonse de Lamartine (French writer, poet and politician)
“If greatness of purpose, smallness of means, and astounding results are the three criteria of human genius, who could
dare to compare any great man in modern history with Muhammad? The most famous men created arms, laws and
empires only. They founded, if anything at all, no more than material powers which often crumbled away before their
eyes. This man moved not only armies, legislations, empires, peoples and dynasties, but millions of men in one-third of
the then inhabited world; and more than that, he moved the altars, the gods, the religions, the ideas, the beliefs and
souls... the forbearance in victory, his ambition, which was entirely devoted to one idea and in no manner striving for an
empire; his endless prayers, his mystic conversations with God, his death and his triumph after death; all these attest not
to an imposture but to a firm conviction which gave him the power to restore a dogma. This dogma was twofold, the unit
of God and the immateriality of God; the former telling what God is, the latter telling what God is not; the one
overthrowing false gods with the sword, the other starting an idea with words.”
“Philosopher, orator, apostle, legislator, warrior, conqueror of ideas, restorer of rational dogmas, of a cult without
images; the founder of twenty terrestrial empires and of one spiritual empire, that is Muhammad. As regards all standards
by which human greatness may be measured, we may well ask, is there any man greater than he?”[86]
John William Draper (American scientist, philosopher, and historian)
“Four years after the death of Justinian, A.D. 569, was born at Mecca, in Arabia the man who, of all men exercised the
greatest influence upon the human race…Mohammed.”[87]
David George Hogarth (English archaeologist and author)
“Serious or trivial, his daily behaviour has instituted a canon which millions observe this day with conscious mimicry. No
one regarded by any section of the human race as Perfect Man has been imitated so minutely. The conduct of the Founder
of Christianity has not so governed the ordinary life of His followers. Moreover, no Founder of a religion has been left on
so solitary an eminence as the Muslim Apostle.”[88]
Washington Irving (American author, essayist, biographer, historian, and diplomat)
“He was sober and abstemious in his diet, and a rigorous observer of fasts. He indulged in no magnificence of apparel,
the ostentation of a petty mind; neither was his simplicity in dress affected, but the result of a real disregard to distinction
from so trivial a source…In his private dealings he was just. He treated friends and strangers, the rich and poor, the
powerful and the weak, with equity, and was beloved by the common people for the affability with which he received
them, and listened to their complaints…His military triumphs awakened no pride nor vain glory, as they would have done
had they been effected for selfish purposes. In the time of his greatest power he maintained the same simplicity of
manners and appearance as in the days of his adversity. So far from affecting regal state, he was displeased if, on entering
a room, any unusual testimonial of respect were shown to him.”[89]
Annie Besant (British theosophist and nationalist leader in India. President of the Indian National Congress in 1917)
“It is impossible for anyone who studies the life and character of the great Prophet of Arabia, who knows how he taught
and how he lived, to feel anything but reverence for that mighty Prophet, one of the great messengers of the Supreme.
And although in what I put to you I shall say many things which may be familiar to many, yet I myself feel whenever I re-
read them, a new way of admiration, a new sense of reverence for that mighty Arabian teacher.”[90]
Bosworth Smith (Schoolmaster and author)
“He was Caesar and Pope in one; but he was Pope without Pope’s pretensions, Caesar without the legions of Caesar:
without a standing army, without a bodyguard, without a palace, without a fixed revenue; if ever any man had the right
to say that he ruled by the right divine, it was Mohammed, for he had all the power without its instruments and without
its supports.”[91]
Montgomery Watt (Scottish historian, and Emeritus Professor in Arabic and Islamic studies)
“His readiness to undergo persecutions for his beliefs, the high moral character of the men who believed in him and
looked up to him as leader, and the greatness of his ultimate achievement – all argue his fundamental integrity. To
suppose Muhammad an impostor raises more problems than it solves. Moreover, none of the great figures of history is
so poorly appreciated in the West as Muhammad.”[92]
George Bernard Shaw (Irish playwright and a co-founder of the London School of Economics)
“He must be called the Saviour of Humanity. I believe that if a man like him were to assume the dictatorship of the modern
world, he would succeed in solving its problems in a way that would bring it much needed peace and happiness.”[93]
Mahatma Gandhi (leader of Indian independence movement)
“I wanted to know the best of one who holds today’s undisputed sway over the hearts of millions of mankind....I became
more than convinced that it was not the sword that won a place for Islam in those days in the scheme of life. It was the
rigid simplicity, the utter self-effacement of the Prophet, the scrupulous regard for his pledges, his intense devotion to
his friends and followers, his intrepidity, his fearlessness, his absolute trust in God and in his own mission. These and not
the sword carried everything before them and surmounted every obstacle. When I closed the 2nd volume (of the
Prophet’s biography), I was sorry there was not more for me to read of the great life.”[94]
Michael H. Hart (professor of astronomy, physics and the history of science)
“My choice of Muhammad to lead the list of the world's most influential persons may surprise some readers and may
be questioned by others, but he was the only man in history who was supremely successful on both the religious and
secular level.”[95]
QUOTES ON LOVE
“Immature love says: ‘I love you because I need you.’ Mature love says ‘I need you because I love you.’” Erich Fromm
“Keep love in your heart. A life without it is like a sunless garden when the flowers are dead.” Oscar Wilde
“Where there is love, there is life.” Mahatma Gandhi
“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” Lao Tzu
“Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.” Aristotle
“The first duty of love is to listen” Paul Tillich
“Love is like a friendship caught on fire. In the beginning a flame, very pretty, often hot and fierce, but still only light
and flickering. As love grows older, our hearts mature and our love becomes as coals, deep-burning and
unquenchable.” Bruce Lee
“Blessed is the influence of one true, loving human soul on another.” George Elliot
“Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates
love.” Lao Tzu
“Gravitation is not responsible for people falling in love.” Albert Einstein
“The course of true love never did run smooth.” William Shakespeare
“What force is more potent than love?” Igor Stravinsky
“Don’t forget to love yourself.” Soren Kierkegaard
“The basis of reasoning, after faith in God, is loving kindness toward the people.” Prophet Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬
APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1: SOME INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THE PROPHET
MUHAMMAD ‫ﷺ‬
HE NEVER WROTE A BIOGRAPHY, YET MORE HAS BEEN WRITTEN ABOUT HIM THAN ANY
OTHER PERSON
The Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬could not read or write, and he did not author any piece of work, including a biography.
However, there are more biographies about his life that any other person, living in the past or present.
HE IS THE MOST PRAISED AND MENTIONED PERSON IN THE WORLD (AND IT WILL
ALWAYS BE THAT WAY)
It is estimated that every micro-second someone is mentioning and praising the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬. His name
actually means the praised one.
Due to global time zones Muslim prayer times differ around the world. When the time for prayer comes in, the call to
prayer is announced. The call to prayer mentions the Prophet’s ‫ ﷺ‬name:
God is great, God is great. God is great, God is great. I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship but God, I
bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship but God. I bear witness Muhammad is the messenger of God, I
bear witness Muhammad is the messenger of God. Come to prayer, come to prayer. Come to success, come to success.
God is great, God is great. There is no deity worthy of worship but God.
The call to prayer is always being called, and therefore the Prophet’s ‫ ﷺ‬name is always being mentioned.
In addition to this, Muslims around the world mention, pray for, and praise the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬in their sermons, prayers, and
supplications. It is estimated that someone is always mentioning his name in the above context.
He is indeed the most praised and remembered person in the world.
WE HAVE MORE BIOGRAPHIES ABOUT THE PROPHET MUHAMMAD’S ‫ ﷺ‬COMPANIONS

THAN ANY OTHER PERSON’S
In Islamic history we have recorded biographies of around 10,000 companions of the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬. These
biographies are available for anyone to read, and they form part of Islamic historical criticism called ‘ilm ul-rijaal (the
knowledge of people). This historical criticism was vital to ensure that what people attributed and said about the Prophet
Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬was authentic.
HE WAS DESCRIBED AS THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON TO HAVE LIVED

Michael H. Hart a Professor of astronomy, physics and the history of science in his book The 100: A Ranking Of The Most
Influential Persons in History argues that the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬should top the list of the most influential people in
the world:
secular level.”[96] [The 100: A Ranking Of The Most Influential Persons In History, New York, 1978, p. 33]
APPENDIX 2: IF GOD IS THE-LOVING, CAN HE HATE?

Before this question is answered we must understand that when we attribute anything to God, we have to remove any
anthropomorphic connotations. God in the Islamic tradition is unique and transcendent. The Qur’an affirms:
“There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the Hearing, the Seeing.” The Qur’an, Chapter 42, Verse 11
“Say: He is God, the Uniquely One.” The Qur’an, Chapter 12, Verse 1
Therefore, when we attribute things like hate or pleasure, it has to be understood in the context of His transcendence
and uniqueness.
Addressing the question about whether God hates, the answer is explained in the following points:
1. Logically speaking love necessitates hate. If one were to love everything, including that which denies love, and prevents
love, and removes it, then that would not be love at all. In order to love you have to dislike that which prevents love.
2. If one loves, can they love evil or capriciousness? What does it mean to love murder, arrogance, ingratitude or a rejection
of the truth? Surely, loving those things is not love at all, but opposes love.
3. God is The-Loving and therefore hating that which is a barrier to His love or that which contradicts His love is necessary.
Otherwise it wouldn’t be love at all.
This however is not to be confused with God’s loving compassion for people. God via His mercy can love those who are
malevolent. But God explains the traits of those who deserve His special love, some include:
“And God loves the patient.” The Qur’an, Chapter 3, Verse 146
“For God loves those who are fair (and just).” The Qur’an, Chapter 49, Verse 9
“Certainly, God loves those who put their trust (in Him).” The Qur’an, Chapter 3, Verse 159
“God loves kindness in all matters.” Prophet Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬
“Truly, God loves those who turn unto him in repentance.” The Qur’an, Chapter 2, Verse 222
“For God loves the righteous (the pious).” The Qur’an. Chapter 9, Verse 4
“Truly, God loves the good-doers.” The Qur’an, Chapter 2, Verse 195
“God is All-Generous and He loves generosity in sale, purchase and judgment.” Prophet Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬
“If two individuals love each other for the sake of God, the stronger in love to his brother will be more loved by
God.” Prophet Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬
“The best loved deeds to God are the ones that are continuous even if they are not very many.” Prophet Muhammad
‫ﷺ‬
God also explains what takes someone away from His special love, some of these things include:
“God does not love those who overstep the limits.” The Qur’an, Chapter 2, Verse 190
“God does not love evil doers.” The Qur’an, Chapter 3, Verse 140
“He does not love the wasteful.” The Qur’an, Chapter 7, Verse 31
“God does not love arrogant or boastful people.” The Qur’an, Chapter 31, Verse 18
The key question we need to ask ourselves is, what do I need to be enveloped with God’s special love? The answer as
aforementioned in this book is simple: love and follow the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬, and by doing so, you will attain the
traits of those who God blesses with His special love.
Written by Andreas Tzortzis
REFERENCES
1. Erich Fromm. The Art of Loving. Harper & Row, New York. 1956, p. 22
2. Ibid, pp. 58-59.
3. Narrated by Abu Dawud
4. Al-Ghazali. Al-Ghazali on Love, Longing, Intimacy & Contentment. Islamic Texts Society Al-Ghazali Series.
5. Narrated by Bukhari
6. Miftaah Daar al-Sa‘aadah, 2/88-90
9. Narrated by Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi
10. Al-Adab Al-Mufrad
11. Narrated by Tirmidhi
14. Narrated by Muslim
17. Narrated by Bukhari, Muslim
19. Narrated by Bukhari, Muslim, Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah
21. Narrated by Ibn Hibban
22. Narrated by Ibn Majah
23. Narrated by Ahmad
25. Narrated by Abu Dawud and Tirmidhi
26. Narrated by Bukhari, Tareekh al-Akhbar
29. Narrated by Ahmad and Tirmidhi
31. Narrated by Bukhari, Muslim and Ahmad
32. Narrated by Bukhari and Muslim
49. Narrated by An Nasai
52. Ash-Shifa of Qadi ‘Iyad
55. Al-Bayhaqi, Ibn Hibban, At-Tabarani and Abu Nu’aym
57. Dr Muhammad Ali’ As-Sallabee. The Noble Life of the Prophet, p. 1707 & 1712
59. Narrated Muslim
60. Narrated Tirmidhi
62. Zad al-Ma'ad 2/45
63. Narrated Bukhari
64. Narrated By Bukhari, Muslim & Ahmad
66. Ibn maajah and al-Haakim
71. Al-Ghazali. Al-Ghazali on Love, Longing, Intimacy & Contentment. Islamic Texts Society Al-Ghazali Series
72. Martin Lings. Muhammad: his life based on the earliest sources. 2nd Revised Edition. The Islamic Texts Society. 1983,
p. 34
73. Ibid, p. 52
74. Ibid, pp. 53 – 79
75. W. Montgomery Watt. Muhammad at Mecca. Oxford. 1953, p. 52
80. http://www.burjkhalifa.ae/en/
81. http://edition.cnn.com/2014/04/17/world/meast/saudi-arabia-to-build-tallest-building-ever/
82. Abu Zakariya. The Eternal Challenge: A Journey Through The Miraculous Qur’an. 2015. Unpublished version. This book
will be published in the Summer of 2015.
83. John William Draper, M.D., L.L.D., A History of the Intellectual Development of Europe,London 1875, Vol. 1, pp. 329-330
84. “Christianity and World Religions: Dialogue with Islam”, vol. 3. The Edwin Mellen Press,1992
85. 'Who Were History’s Great Leaders?' in TIME Magazine, July 15, 1974
86. Histoire de la Turquie, Paris 1854, Vol II, pp. 276-77
87. A History of the Intellectual Development of Europe, London, 1875, vol.1, pp. 329-330
88. Arabia, Oxford, 1922, p. 52
89. Life of Mahomet, London, 1889, pp. 192-3, 199
90. The Life And Teachings Of Muhammad, Madras, 1932, p. 4
91. Mohammed and Mohammadanism, London 1874, p. 92
92. W. Montgomery, Mohammad at Mecca, Oxford 1953, p. 52
93. The Genuine Islam, Singapore, Vol. 1, No. 8, 1936
94. Young India, 1924
95. The 100: A Ranking Of The Most Influential Persons In History, New York, 1978, p. 33
SIAPA YANG ANDA CINTAI?
CINTA
Ketika pena diletakkan di atas kertas dan menulis tentang cinta, itu akan menjadi dua. Cinta benar-benar kekuatan,
kekuatan yang kuat, unik dan tak tertahankan. Ketika kita mencoba dan mengungkapkan cinta kita, kita merasa sangat
sulit menemukan kata-kata yang tepat. Ungkapan yang kita gunakan tidak sepenuhnya mewakili apa yang terbakar jauh
di lubuk hati kita. Ini mungkin menjelaskan mengapa kita mengasosiasikan cinta dengan tindakan dan bukan hanya
kata-kata. Kami saling berpelukan, membeli hadiah yang kami cintai, mengirim sekian banyak bunga kepada kami, atau
mengajak mereka makan malam romantis. Cinta bukan hanya perasaan internal; Ini juga cara menjadi, cara
berperilaku. Psikolog Erich Fromm dengan tepat menggambarkan cinta dengan cara berikut:
"Cinta adalah aktivitas, bukan efek pasif; itu adalah "berdiri di," bukan "jatuh untuk". Dengan cara yang paling umum,
karakter cinta yang aktif dapat digambarkan dengan menyatakan bahwa cinta terutama memberi, tidak menerima.
" [1]
Ada banyak tingkatan dan jenis cinta. Berbagai pemikir, filsuf dan psikolog telah berbicara tentang cinta. Istilah yang
mereka gunakan dan pendekatan yang mereka ambil berbeda, namun umumnya kita dapat memahami berbagai jenis
cinta dengan cara berikut:
 Cinta Alami: Kita semua mengalami cinta alami. Jenis cinta ini berkaitan dengan mencintai keluarga
kita. Kami mencintai keluarga kami karena berbagi pengalaman pribadi, pribadi dan keluarga. Cinta ini juga dibangun
di atas rasa identitas dan rasa memiliki.
 Cinta yang Ramah: Cinta ini adalah jenis cinta yang kita alami di antara teman-teman. Kita jatuh cinta
dengan teman kita karena pengalaman bersama, minat, keyakinan, hasrat dan aktivitas bersama kita.
 Cinta yang penuh gairah: Cinta antar pasangan dianggap sebagai jenis cinta yang penuh gairah. Jenis cinta
ini bisa ditemukan antara suami dan istri, dan itu tidak menjadi bingung dengan nafsu. Cinta ini melihat kekasih
sebagai sumber kesenangan, kenyamanan dan keamanan mereka. Pecinta gairah cenderung melihat kesenangan
dan kebahagiaan mereka dalam kenikmatan dan kebahagiaan kekasih mereka. Filsuf Yunani kuno Aristoteles
menyebut jenis cinta ini sebagai dua tubuh dan satu jiwa.
 Cinta tanpa pamrih: Jenis cinta lainnya adalah cinta yang tidak didasarkan pada keadaan dan bebas
diberikan tanpa mempedulikan konteksnya. Jenis cinta ini terkait dengan cinta yang kita terima dari ibu kita. Cinta
mereka tidak didasarkan pada kita mencintai mereka kembali atau dalam perjalanan kita berperilaku. Ibu hanya
mencintai tanpa dicintai kembali. Cinta seorang ibu tidak mementingkan diri sendiri; Dia mengorbankan banyak
keinginan dan kebutuhannya untuk anak-anaknya.
"KITA MENCINTAI KEHIDUPAN, BUKAN KARENA KITA TERBIASA HIDUP TAPI KARENA
KITA BIASA MENCINTAI." FRIEDRICH NIETZSCHE
Bayangkan hidup tanpa cinta atau dicintai. Apakah itu hidup yang layak dijalani? Semuanya mandul jika kita tidak
merasakan cinta atau memberi cinta. Tanpa cinta, hidup kita menjadi seperti bumi yang kering dan tak
bernyawa. Dengan cinta, hidup kita seperti taman hijau subur menikmati pertumbuhan, buah dan harmoni.
Cinta memberi kita hidup, dan hidup tanpa cinta bukanlah hidup sama sekali.
MENCINTAI DIRI SENDIRI, MENGASIHI TUHAN

Jenis cinta lainnya termasuk cinta-diri. Cinta ini terjadi karena keinginan untuk memperpanjang eksistensi kita,
merasakan kenikmatan dan menghindari rasa sakit, serta kebutuhan untuk memuaskan kebutuhan dan motivasi
manusiawi kita. Kita semua memiliki cinta alamiah ini untuk diri kita sendiri karena kita ingin bahagia dan puas. Psikolog
Erich Fromm berpendapat bahwa mencintai diri sendiri bukanlah suatu bentuk kesombongan atau
egosentrisitas. Sebaliknya, cinta diri adalah tentang peduli, bertanggung jawab dan menghormati diri sendiri. Jenis cinta
ini diperlukan untuk mencintai orang lain. Jika kita tidak bisa mencintai diri kita sendiri, bagaimana kita bisa mencintai
orang lain? Tidak ada yang lebih dekat dengan diri kita daripada diri kita sendiri, jika kita tidak dapat merawat dan
menghormati diri kita sendiri, bagaimana kita bisa peduli dan menghormati orang lain? Mencintai diri sendiri adalah
bentuk empati diri. Kita berempati dan terhubung dengan perasaan, pikiran dan aspirasi kita sendiri. Jika kita tidak bisa
berempati dan terhubung dengan diri kita sendiri, bagaimana kita bisa berempati dan terhubung dengan orang lain?
"Gagasan yang diungkapkan dalam alkitabiah" Kasihilah sesamamu manusia sebagai cintamu! "Menyiratkan bahwa
menghargai integritas dan keunikan dirinya sendiri, cinta akan pemahaman tentang dirinya sendiri, tidak dapat
dipisahkan dari rasa hormat dan cinta dan pengertian kepada orang lain. " [2]
Jika seseorang mencintai dirinya sendiri diperlukan, ini harus menuntunnya untuk mencintai Dia yang telah
menciptakannya. Mengapa? Karena Tuhanlah yang menciptakan sebab fisik dan sarana agar manusia bisa mencapai
kebahagiaan, kesenangan dan untuk menghindari rasa sakit. Tuhanlah yang telah dengan bebas memberi kita setiap
momen berharga dari keberadaan kita, namun kita tidak memperoleh atau memiliki saat-saat ini.
Mengingat bahwa kata bahasa Inggris untuk cinta mencakup berbagai makna, cara terbaik untuk menguraikan konsepsi
Islam tentang kasih Allah adalah untuk menjelaskan rahmat-Nya ( rahmah ) dan kasih-Nya yang spesial ( muwadda ).
1. Rahmat: Dikatakan bahwa kata lain untuk cinta adalah belas kasihan. Salah satu nama Tuhan adalah Yang Maha
Penyayang; Kata Arab yang digunakan adalah Ar-Rahman . Terjemahannya tidak sepenuhnya mewakili kedalaman dan
intensitas yang di maksud kata ini. Nama Ar-Rahman memiliki tiga konotasi utama: yang pertama adalah bahwa
rahmat Tuhan adalah rahmat yang kuat; Yang kedua adalah bahwa rahmat-Nya adalah rahmat yang segera; dan yang
ketiga adalah rahmat yang begitu kuat sehingga tidak ada yang bisa menghentikannya. Kemurahan Tuhan mencakup
semua hal dan Dia ingin orang dibimbing. Dalam buku Tuhan, Alquran, Dia berkata:
"... tapi rahmat-ku meliputi segala hal ..." Al Qur'an, Bab 7, Ayat 156
"Itu adalah Tuhan Yang Maha Esa yang mengajar Al Qur'an." Al Qur'an, Bab 55, Ayat 1-2
Dalam ayat di atas, Tuhan berfirman bahwa Dia adalah Yang Maha Penyayang, yang dapat dipahami sebagai "Penguasa
Rahmat", dan bahwa Dia mengajarkan Al Qur'an. Ini adalah indikasi linguistik untuk menyoroti bahwa Alquran
diwahyukan sebagai manifestasi rahmat Tuhan. Dengan kata lain, Alquran itu seperti satu surat cinta besar untuk
kemanusiaan. Sama seperti dengan cinta sejati, sang kekasih menginginkan kebaikan bagi yang dicintai, dan
memperingatkan mereka akan kesulitan dan rintangan, dan menunjukkan jalan menuju kebahagiaan. Alquran tidak
berbeda: itu menyerukan umat manusia, dan ini juga memperingatkan dan mengungkapkan kabar gembira.
2. Cinta Khusus: Menurut Alquran, Tuhan Maha Mengasihi. Nama Arab adalah Al-Wadud . Ini mengacu pada cinta
istimewa yang nyata. Oleh karena itu berasal dari kata wud , yang berarti mengekspresikan cinta melalui tindakan
memberi.
"Dan Dia adalah Pengampunan, Yang Penuh Kasih." Al Qur'an, Bab 85, Ayat 14
Kasih Tuhan melampaui jenis cinta yang disebutkan sebelumnya. Cintanya lebih besar dari semua bentuk kasih duniawi
dan manusia - bahkan cinta keibuan. Tuhan adalah makhluk mandiri yang mandiri dan sempurna. Dia tidak
membutuhkan atau membutuhkan apapun. Cinta seorang ibu, meski tanpa pamrih, didasarkan pada kebutuhan
internalnya untuk mencintai anaknya. Ini melengkapi dia dan melalui pengorbanannya dia merasa utuh dan
terpenuhi. Namun, kasih Tuhan tidak didasarkan pada kebutuhan atau keinginan; Oleh karena itu, itu adalah bentuk
cinta yang paling murni, karena Dia sama sekali tidak mendapatkan apapun dari cinta.
Dalam terang ini, bagaimana kita bisa tidak mencintai Orang yang lebih mencintai daripada apapun yang bisa kita
bayangkan? Nabi Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬berkata,
"Tuhan lebih menyayangi hamba-hamba-Nya daripada seorang ibu bagi anak-anaknya yang masih muda." [3]
Jika Tuhan itu yang paling mencintai, dan cintanya lebih besar daripada cinta duniawi terbesar yang pernah kita alami,
ini seharusnya menanamkan kepada kita cinta yang lebih dalam dan lebih dalam kepada Tuhan. Secara signifikan, ini
seharusnya membuat kita ingin mencintai Dia dengan menjadi salah satu hamba-Nya. Teolog abad kesebelas, Al-
Ghazali, dengan tepat mengatakan,
"Bagi mereka yang memiliki wawasan, kenyataannya tidak ada objek cinta selain Tuhan, juga bukan siapa-siapa selain
Dia yang pantas mendapat cinta." [4]
Dari perspektif spiritual, kasih Tuhan adalah berkat terbesar yang bisa dicapai siapapun, karena ini adalah sumber
ketenangan batin, ketenangan, dan kebahagiaan abadi di akhirat. Tidak mencintai Tuhan bukan hanya bentuk tak
bersyukur, tapi bentuk kebencian terbesar. Tidak mencintai Dia yang menciptakan cinta dan merupakan sumber cinta
itu sendiri adalah penolakan terhadap apa yang memungkinkan cinta terjadi dan mengisi hati kita.
Tuhan tidak bisa memaksakan kasih istimewanya kepada kita. Meskipun, melalui belas kasihan-Nya, Dia dengan penuh
kasih memberi kita setiap saat dalam hidup kita, untuk sepenuhnya menerima kasih Allah dan menjadi penerima kasih
khusus-Nya, seseorang harus menjalin hubungan dengan-Nya. Seolah-olah cinta Tuhan menunggu kita untuk
memeluknya. Namun, kami telah menutup pintu dan memasang penutup jendela. Jika Tuhan memaksakan kasih
istimewanya kepada kita, cinta akan kehilangan semua makna. Kita punya pilihan; untuk mengikuti jalan yang benar
dan dengan demikian mendapatkan kasih khusus Allah, atau menolak tuntunan-Nya dan menghadapi konsekuensi
rohani.
Yang MahaMengasihi ingin mencintai Anda dengan kasih-Nya yang khusus, namun untuk sepenuhnya merangkul
cinta itu, dan agar hal itu menjadi bermakna, Anda harus mengasihi Dia dan mengikuti jalan yang mengarah pada
kasih-Nya.
MENCINTAI TUHAN, MENGASIHI NABI
Bagaimana kita sepenuhnya merangkul dan mendapatkan kasih istimewa Allah? Alquran memperjelas bagaimana
mencintai Tuhan. Ini untuk mengikuti dan mencintai Nabi Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬:
"Katakan kepada mereka: Jika Anda mencintai Tuhan, ikuti saya, dan Tuhan akan mencintaimu." Al Qur'an, Bab 3
ayat 31
Mengikuti dan mencintai Nabi Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬diperlukan karena diwujudkan dalam kehidupannya, ajaran dan
tindakannya adalah jalan menuju Tuhan. Hidupnya mengungkapkan penerapan Alquran dan ajaran-ajarannya, dimana
kita mendapatkan kasih Allah.
Melalui ajaran dan tindakan Nabi Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬, kita diajarkan bagaimana untuk menyembah dan memiliki hubungan
dengan Allah. Dia mengajarkan bahwa menyembah Tuhan melibatkan mencintai, mengetahui dan menaati
Dia. Menyembah Tuhan termasuk berdoa lima kali sehari, berpuasa, membaca dan merenungkan makna Alquran,
mengingat Tuhan, memberi sedekah, merawat orang lain dan mencintai orang lain apa yang kita cintai untuk diri kita
sendiri. Tindakan pemujaan ini dikategorikan sebagai wajib dan supererogatif. Intinya mereka adalah alat spiritual yang
memudahkan kedekatan dengan Tuhan dan cinta Ilahi. Nabi Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬mengatakan bahwa Allah mengatakan:
"Pelayan saya tidak mendekat kepada-Ku dengan sesuatu yang lebih dikasihi-Ku daripada tugas-tugas religius yang
telah kuperintahkan kepadanya; dan hamba-Ku terus mendekat kepada-Ku dengan karya-karya supererogatif
sehingga aku akan mencintainya. " [5]
Tuhan mengatakan kepada kita bahwa untuk mendekati Dia dan mengasihi Dia kita harus menyembah Dia. Memahami
cara menyembah Dia mensyaratkan bahwa kita mengikuti Nabi ‫ ﷺ‬. Oleh karena itu, mengikuti Nabi adalah pintu
gerbang menuju cinta istimewa Tuhan.
Teolog abad ke-14 Ibn al-Qayyim berkata:
"Tidak ada keraguan bahwa perbudakan yang sempurna kepada Tuhan adalah bagian dari cinta yang sempurna, dan
cinta yang sempurna terhubung dengan kesempurnaan yang Tercinta dan diri-Nya sendiri, karena Allah, semoga Dia
dimuliakan, benar-benar sempurna dalam semua aspek, dan tidak mungkin tidak memiliki ketidaksempurnaan sama
sekali Bagi orang yang seperti ini, tidak ada yang bisa lebih dikasihi hati daripada Dia; asalkan sifat dasar dan nalar
mereka terdengar, tak dapat dipungkiri bahwa Dia akan menjadi yang tersayang dari segala hal ke dalam hati
mereka. Tidak diragukan lagi, kasih kepada-Nya mengarah pada ketaatan dan ketaatan kepada-Nya, mencari
kesenangan-Nya, melakukan yang terbaik untuk menyembah Dia dan berpaling kepada-Nya. Inilah motif terbaik dan
terkuat untuk melakukan tindakan pemujaan. " [6]
Mengikuti tuntunan Tuhan dengan mengikuti Nabi ‫ ﷺ‬adalah sarana menuju surga, kebahagiaan abadi dan kemurahan
hati Tuhan. Seorang pria pernah bertanya kepada Nabi ‫ ﷺ‬tentang Hari Pengadilan dengan mengatakan:
"Kapan jam berapa?"
Nabi ‫ ﷺ‬menjawab,
"Apa yang telah Anda siapkan untuk itu?"
Pria itu menjawab,
"Tidak ada, kecuali bahwa saya mencintai Tuhan dan RasulNya."
Nabi ‫ ﷺ‬mengatakan,
"Anda akan bersama orang-orang yang Anda cintai." [7]
Oleh karena itu, iman tidak bisa lengkap tanpa mencintai Nabi ‫ ﷺ‬lebih dari apapun di dunia ini:
"Tidak, oleh Dia di Tangan siapa jiwaku, (kamu tidak akan memiliki iman yang utuh) sampai aku lebih berharga
bagimu daripada dirimu sendiri." [8]
Bagaimana mungkin kita tidak mencintai orang yang berarti cinta Ilahi dan kebahagiaan abadi? Pada dasarnya,
bagaimana kita bisa tidak mencintai pria yang dikasihi Tuhan?
Untuk mencintai Tuhan kita harus mencintai apa yang Dia cintai.
SEBUAH RAHMAT BAGI UMAT MANUSIA

Muslim mencintai semua nabi karena siapa mereka. Mereka adalah yang paling dekat dengan Tuhan dan sarana untuk
belas kasihan dan kasih Tuhan. Mereka memiliki karakter terbaik dan berkorban begitu banyak sehingga kita bisa menjadi
penerima bimbingan spiritual dan moral ini. Semua nabi, termasuk Yesus, Musa, Abraham dan Daud, dicintai, dihormati
dan dihormati. Namun, Nabi Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬secara khusus digambarkan oleh Allah sebagai memiliki karakter yang
mulia, menjadi yang terbaik contoh, dan rahmat bagi umat manusia.
"Itu hanya sebagai rahmat yang Kami utus kepada semua orang" Al Qur'an, Bab 21, Ayat 107
"Dan Anda (stand) dengan standar karakter yang tinggi." Al Qur'an, Bab 68, Ayat 4
"Rasul Allah adalah model yang sangat baik bagi Anda yang menaruh harapan Anda kepada Tuhan dan Hari Terakhir
dan sering mengingat Dia." Al Qur'an, Bab 33, Ayat 21
Bila Anda mempertimbangkan ajaran dan sifat karakter Nabi Muhammad SAW, ‫ ﷺ‬Anda akan setuju dengan mengapa
Tuhan menggambarkannya seperti itu.
Berikut adalah beberapa contoh dari ajaran Nabi Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬:
MERCY & COMPASSION

"Yang Maha Pengasih menunjukkan belas kasihan kepada orang-orang yang memiliki belas kasihan (kepada orang
lain). Jadi tunjukkan rahmat untuk apapun yang ada di bumi, maka Dia yang ada di surga akan menunjukkan belas
kasihan kepada Anda. " [9]
"Tuhan itu penyayang dan mencintai kasih sayang." [10]
"Dia bukan dari kita yang tidak memiliki belas kasihan untuk anak-anak kecil kita dan tidak menghormati orang tua
kita." [11]
"Semoga Tuhan kasihanilah pria yang baik saat dia membeli, saat dia menjual, dan kapan dia membuat
permintaan." [12]
CO NTENTMENT & SPIRITUALITAS

"Kekayaan tidak memiliki banyak barang. Sebaliknya, kekayaan sejati adalah kekayaan jiwa. " [13]
"Memang, Tuhan tidak melihat ke arah tubuh Anda atau ke arah penampilan Anda. Tapi, Dia melihat ke arah hatimu.
" [14]
"Jangan bicara terlalu banyak tanpa mengingat Tuhan. Memang berbicara berlebihan tanpa mengingat Tuhan
mengeras hati. Dan sesungguhnya orang terjauh dari Allah adalah orang yang keras hati. " [15]
"Perhatikanlah Tuhan, Anda akan menemukan Dia di hadapan Anda. Kenali Tuhan dalam kemakmuran dan Dia akan
mengenal Anda dalam kesusahan. Ketahuilah bahwa apa yang telah berlalu denganmu tidak akan menimpa
Anda; dan bahwa apa yang telah menimpa Anda tidak akan berlalu begitu saja. Dan ketahuilah bahwa kemenangan
datang dengan sabar, lega dengan penderitaan, dan mudah tersendat-sendat. " [16]
"Islam telah dibangun di atas lima [pilar]: bersaksi bahwa tidak ada tuhan yang layak disembah selain Allah dan
bahwa Muhammad adalah utusan Allah, mendirikan shalat, membayar amal wajib, melakukan ziarah ke rumah, dan
berpuasa di Ramadan. " [17]
"Tuhan, Yang Mulia, telah berkata: 'Hai anak Adam, aku memaafkanmu selama kamu berdoa kepada-Ku dan
mengharapkan pengampunan-Ku, apapun yang telah kamu lakukan. Wahai anak Adam, saya tidak peduli jika dosa-
dosa Anda mencapai puncak langit, maka Anda meminta pengampunan saya, saya akan memaafkan Anda. Hai anak
Adam, jika kamu datang kepadaKu dengan beban dosa di bumi, dan temui Aku tidak berhubungan dengan Aku, aku
akan mencocokkannya dengan muatan pengampunan di bumi. '" [18]
"Tuhan berfirman: 'Aku seperti hamba-Ku yang mengira aku. Saya bersamanya saat dia menyebutkan tentang
saya. Jika dia menyebutkan tentang diri saya sendiri, saya menyebutkannya kepada diri saya sendiri. Dan jika dia
menyebutkan tentang saya di majelis, saya menyebutkannya di majelis lebih baik dari pada itu. Dan jika dia
mendekatiku dengan rentang tanganku, aku mendekatinya dengan lengan panjang. Dan jika dia mendekat ke
tanganku, aku mendekatkan dia kepadanya. Dan jika dia datang kepada-Ku berjalan, aku mendatanginya dengan
kecepatan. '" [19]
CINTA
"Demi Dia yang memiliki jiwaku di tangan-Nya, kamu tidak akan masuk ke Taman sampai kamu percaya, dan kamu
tidak akan percaya sampai kamu saling mengasihi. Haruskah saya menunjukkan sesuatu kepada Anda, mana yang
akan membuat Anda saling mencintai jika melakukannya? Buatlah salam damai tersebar luas di antara kamu. " [20]
"Pelayan tidak mencapai kenyataan iman sampai dia mencintai orang-orang yang dia cintai untuk dirinya sendiri dari
kebaikan." [21]
"Cinta untuk orang-orang yang Anda cintai untuk diri sendiri dan Anda akan menjadi orang beriman. Berperilaku baik
dengan tetangga Anda dan Anda akan menjadi seorang Muslim. " [22]
"Datanglah kepadamu penyakit bangsa-bangsa di depanmu: iri hati dan kebencian, dan kebencian adalah pisau
cukur. Ini mencukur agama dan tidak mencukur rambut. Dengan orang yang tangannya adalah jiwa Muhammad,
Anda tidak akan percaya sampai Anda saling mencintai. Haruskah saya memberi tahu Anda sesuatu yang, jika Anda
melakukannya, Anda akan saling mencintai? Sebarkan kedamaian di antara kamu sendiri. " [23]
"Tidak seorang pun dari Anda memiliki iman sampai dia mencintai orang-orang yang dia cintai untuk dirinya
sendiri." [24]
"Ketika seorang pria mencintai saudaranya, dia harus mengatakan kepadanya bahwa dia mencintainya." [25]
"Kasihilah orang-orang yang kamu cintai untuk dirimu sendiri." [26]
KOMUNITAS & PERDAMAIAN

"Apa jenis perbuatan atau sifat-sifat Islam yang baik?" Rasulullah menjawab: "Memberi makan orang lain, dan untuk
menyapa orang-orang yang Anda kenal dan orang-orang yang tidak Anda kenal." [27]
"Dia yang membuat kedamaian di antara orang-orang dengan menemukan informasi yang baik atau mengatakan
hal-hal yang baik, bukanlah pembohong." [28]
"Demi Tuhan, dia tidak (benar) percaya! Demi Tuhan, dia tidak (benar) percaya! Demi Tuhan, dia tidak (benar)
percaya! Seseorang bertanya: 'Siapa, o Rasulullah?' Dia berkata: 'Dia yang tetangganya tidak aman dari
kenakalannya.' " [29]
"Semua umat manusia berasal dari Adam dan Hawa, orang Arab tidak memiliki keunggulan atas orang non-Arab atau
non-Arab yang memiliki keunggulan dibanding orang Arab; juga putih tidak memiliki keunggulan selain hitam atau
hitam memiliki keunggulan dibanding kulit putih kecuali oleh kesalehan dan tindakan yang baik. " [30]
"Orang beriman bukan dia yang makan isinya saat dia tetangga lapar. " [31]
AMAL & KEMANUSIAAN

"Tuhan berfirman:" Habiskan (yaitu untuk amal), wahai anak Adam, dan saya akan membelanjakannya untuk Anda.
" [32]
"Amal tidak mengurangi kekayaan." [33]
"Mengunjungi yang sakit, memberi makan orang-orang yang lapar dan membebaskan para tawanan." [34]
"Buatlah hal mudah, dan jangan membuat mereka sulit, dan beri kabar baik dan jangan membuat orang melarikan
diri." [35]
"Berikan upah buruhnya sebelum keringatnya mengering." [36]
"Setiap tindakan kebaikan adalah amal." [37]

KARAKTER & TATA RIAS
"Orang-orang percaya yang menunjukkan iman yang paling sempurna adalah mereka yang memiliki karakter terbaik,
dan yang terbaik dari Anda adalah mereka yang terbaik bagi istri mereka." [38]
"(Tuhan) telah menyatakan kepada saya bahwa Anda harus mengadopsi kerendahan hati sehingga tidak ada yang
menindas yang lain." [39]
"Baik perawat tidak peduli atau memutuskan (hubungan kekerabatan), atau permusuhan permusuhan, dan menjadi
sesama saudara dan hamba Tuhan." [40]
"Dia yang benar-benar percaya kepada Tuhan dan hari terakhir, harus berbicara baik atau tetap diam." [41]
"Yang terbaik di antara kamu adalah dia yang memiliki sopan santun terbaik." [42]
"Waspadalah terhadap kecurigaan, karena kecurigaan adalah yang terburuk dari kisah palsu." [43]
"Orang kuat bukanlah orang yang kuat dalam gulat, tapi orang yang mengendalikan dirinya dalam kemarahan." [44]
LINGKUNGAN DAN HEWAN

"Jika kiamat (hari kiamat) akan didirikan dan salah satu dari Anda memegang telapak tangan, biarkan dia
memanfaatkannya bahkan satu detik sebelum Jam didirikan untuk menanamnya." [45]
"Jika seorang Muslim menanam pohon atau menabur benih, dan kemudian seekor burung, atau seseorang atau
binatang makan darinya, itu dianggap sebagai pemberian amal (sadaqah) untuknya." [46]
"Melepaskan barang-barang berbahaya dari jalan adalah tindakan amal." [47]
Para sahabat bertanya kepada Nabi Muhammad SAW, 'Wahai Rasulullah! Apakah ada pahala bagi kita dalam
melayani binatang? "Dia menjawab:" Ada hadiah untuk melayani makhluk hidup manapun. " [48]
"Barangsiapa membunuh burung gereja atau apapun yang lebih besar dari pada itu tanpa alasan yang adil, Allah
akan menuntut pertanggungjawabannya pada hari kiamat." [49]
"Seorang pelacur melihat seekor anjing berkeliaran di sekitar sumur di hari yang panas dan menggantung lidahnya
dari kehausan. Dia mengambil air untuk itu di sepatunya, jadi Tuhan memaafkannya. " [50]
Abdullah ibn Amr ibn Al-`Aas (semoga Allah berkenan dengan dia) melaporkan bahwa Nabi melewati suatu hari oleh
Sa`d ibn Abi Waqas (semoga Allah berkenan dengan dia) saat dia melakukan wudhu '(wudhu). Nabi bertanya kepada
Sa'd, "Mengapa pemborosan ini?" Sa'd menjawab "Apakah ada pemborosan dalam wudhu juga?" Nabi berkata, 'Ya,
bahkan jika Anda berada di sebuah sungai yang mengalir.' [51]
Berikut adalah beberapa contoh dari kualitas karakter Nabi Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬:
SABAR, PENGAMPUNAN DAN WELAS ASIH

Hal itu terkait bahwa ketika Nabi memiliki giginya yang rusak dan mukanya dipotong saat salah satu pertempuran saat
membela orang-orang Muslim dan non-Muslim di bawah perlindungannya, rekan-rekannya memintanya untuk
mengutuk para penyerang. Namun dia menjawab,
"Saya tidak dikirim untuk mengutuk, tapi saya dikirim sebagai summoner dan sebagai rahmat. Ya Allah, tuntunlah
umat-Ku karena mereka tidak tahu. " [52]
Anas Ibn Malik berkata,
"Saya melayani Rasulullah, semoga Tuhan memberkatinya dan memberinya kedamaian, selama sepuluh tahun dan
dia tidak pernah mengatakan 'Uff!' untuk saya. Dia tidak mengatakan apapun yang telah saya lakukan, 'Mengapa
Anda melakukannya?' atau tentang apapun yang belum pernah saya lakukan, 'Mengapa Anda tidak melakukannya?'
" [53]
Anas mengatakan,
"Saya bersama Nabi, semoga Tuhan memberkatinya dan memberinya kedamaian, saat dia mengenakan jubah
tebal. Seekor Badui menariknya begitu keras dengan jubahnya sehingga ujung mantelnya menjadi bekas di sisi
lehernya. Lalu dia berkata, 'Muhammad! Izinkan saya memuat kedua unta saya ini dengan milik Tuhan yang Anda
miliki! Anda tidak akan membiarkan saya keluar dari properti Anda atau milik ayah Anda. ' Nabi terdiam dan
kemudian dia berkata, 'Haruskah saya melakukan pembalasan dari Anda, Badui, apa yang telah Anda lakukan terhadap
saya?' Dia kembali, 'Tidak'. Nabi bertanya, 'Kenapa tidak?' Badui itu menjawab, 'Karena Anda tidak membalas
tindakan buruk dengan tindakan jahat.'Nabi tertawa dan memerintahkan agar seekor unta dipenuhi dengan yang lain
dan kurma dengan unta. " [54]
Suatu ketika seorang pria menuntut pembayaran hutang untuk menangkap Nabi Muhammad SAW dan berperilaku
sangat buruk. Teman Nabi hadir dan mengejarnya dan berbicara kasar kepadanya. Namun Nabi berkata,
"Dia dan saya membutuhkan sesuatu yang lain dari Anda. Perintahkan saya untuk membayar dengan baik dan
perintahkan dia untuk meminta hutangnya dengan baik. "
Nabi melunasi pinjaman tersebut dan menambahkan lebih banyak kepadanya karena fakta bahwa temannya
mengkhawatirkannya.
Pria yang dikenal sebagai Zayd Ibn Sa'na, kemudian menjadi seorang Muslim. Zayd menjelaskan,
"Hanya ada dua tanda kenabian yang masih belum saya ketahui di Muhammad atau perhatikan: kesabaran untuk
mengatasi kemarahan yang cepat dan ketidaktahuan yang ekstrem hanya meningkatkan dia dalam kesabaran. Saya
menguji dia untuk ini dan saya menemukannya seperti yang dijelaskan. " [55]
Anas Ibn Malik mengingatkan kasih sayang Nabi Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬terhadap anak-anak:
"Saya tidak pernah melihat orang yang lebih penyayang terhadap anak-anak daripada Rasul Allah." [56]
Teman-teman Nabi terbunuh dan disiksa. Dia diboikot, kelaparan dan disalahgunakan. Ada begitu banyak ketidakadilan
dan kesalahan yang dilakukan terhadap Nabi dan para pengikutnya. Namun saat dia membawa Mekah dengan damai,
yang dikenal sebagai penaklukan Mekkah, dia menyampaikan pengampunan dan pengampunan universal. Dia
menggambarkan hari itu sebagai hari,
"... kesalehan, kesetiaan dan kesetiaan." [57]
PENAMPILAN DAN APPROACHABILITY

Nabi Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬sahabat menceritakan tentang penampilannya:
Abdullah Ibn al-Harith berkata:
"Saya tidak melihat siapa pun yang lebih banyak tersenyum daripada Rasulullah." [58]
Al-Baraa 'Ibnu' Aazib diriwayatkan:
“Rasul Allah ‫ ﷺ‬adalah yang paling tampan dari semua orang, dan memiliki penampilan terbaik.” [59]
Jaabir Ibnu Samurah menceritakan:
"Saya melihat Rasulullah ‫ ﷺ‬pada malam yang diterangi cahaya bulan terang dengan mengenakan pakaian
merah. Lalu aku mulai menatapnya dan di bulan. Dan bagi saya, dia lebih cantik dari pada bulan. " [60]
'Ali bin Abi Thalib meriwayatkan:
"Mereka yang melihatnya tiba-tiba berdiri kagum akan dia dan mereka yang berbagi kenalannya
mencintainya. Mereka yang menggambarkannya mengatakan bahwa mereka belum pernah melihat orang seperti dia
sebelumnya atau sebelumnya. " [61]
'Umm Ma'bad Al-Khuza'iyah menggambarkan kepada suaminya apa yang Nabi (saw) tampak seperti:
"Dia polos terang dan memiliki wajah yang luas. Tatapannya baik-baik saja. Perutnya tidak menonjol keluar dan
kepalanya juga tidak terkena rambut. Dia memiliki mata menarik hitam yang melengkung halus dengan alis yang terus-
menerus.Rambutnya yang glossy dan hitam, cenderung meringkuk, dia memakai panjang. Dia sangat
memerintah. Kepalanya besar, terbentuk dengan baik dan diletakkan di atas leher yang ramping. Ekspresinya
termenung dan kontemplatif, tenang dan agung. Orang asing itu terpesona dari kejauhan, tapi tak lama kemudian dia
menjadi akrab dengannya daripada kesenangan ini berubah menjadi keterikatan dan rasa hormat. Ekspresinya sangat
manis dan berbeda. Pidatonya diatur dengan baik dan bebas dari penggunaan kata-kata yang berlebihan, seolah-olah
itu adalah rosario manik-manik. Perawakannya tidak terlalu tinggi atau terlalu kecil untuk terlihat menjijikkan ... Dia
selalu dikelilingi oleh para sahabatnya.Kapan pun dia mengucapkan sesuatu, pendengar akan mendengarnya dengan
penuh perhatian dan setiap kali dia mengeluarkan perintah apapun, mereka saling beradu dalam menjalankannya. Dia
adalah seorang tuan dan komandan.Ucapannya ditandai dengan kebenaran dan ketulusan, terbebas dari segala
macam kebohongan dan kebohongan. " [62]
KERENDAHAN HATI DAN KESOPANAN

"Jangan membesar-besarkan dalam memuji saya karena orang-orang Kristen memuji anak Maria, karena saya
hanyalah seorang Budak. Jadi, panggil aku hamba Allah dan RasulNya. " [63]
Nabi ‫ ﷺ‬istri, Aisyah (semoga Allah senang dengan dia) diminta:
"Apa yang dilakukan utusan Tuhan di rumah?"
Dia berkata:
"Dia seperti manusia lain, membersihkan dan memperbaiki garmennya, memerah susu kambing, memperbaiki
sepatunya, melayani dirinya sendiri, dan melayani keluarganya, sampai dia mendengar seruan untuk sholat, lalu dia
pergi keluar untuk berdoa masjid]. " [64]
"Aku hanyalah orang seperti dirimu sendiri. Saya cenderung lupa sama seperti Anda. " [65]
Ketika Nabi ‫ ﷺ‬melihat seorang pria gemetar ketakutan saat melihat dia, dia berkata kepadanya:
"Tenanglah aku bukan seorang raja, aku adalah anak perempuan dari orang Quraisy [orang Arab] yang akan makan
daging kering / tersentak." [66]
Nabi ‫ ﷺ‬akan memanggil tuannya untuk mengatakan:
"Ya Allah, buatlah aku hidup dengan rendah hati dan membuat aku mati dengan rendah hati, dan kumpulkanlah aku
di antara orang-orang yang rendah hati pada hari kebangkitan." [67]
Abu Sa'id al-Khudri mengatakan,
“Saya melihat utusan Allah ‫ ﷺ‬sujud di lumpur dan air seperti yang saya lihat tanda lumpur di dahinya.” [68]
Anas mengatakan,
"Nabi ‫ ﷺ‬akan diajak makan roti jelai dan lemak tengik dan dia akan menerimanya." [69]
Aisyah (semoga Tuhan berkenan dengan dia) berkata,
"Di rumah kami (yaitu rumah rumah tangga Nabi Suci), api tidak akan menyala (kadang-kadang) selama sebulan
penuh; kami hanya mengandalkan air dan kurma. " [70]
KEBENARAN DARI PESAN-NYA

Ikatan semua apa yang telah disebutkan sejauh ini adalah kebenaran ‫ ﷺ‬pesan Nabi Muhammad apa. Jika yang dia
minta didasarkan pada sebuah kebohongan, maka mencintainya dan menghargai karakternya tidak memiliki dasar yang
sebenarnya. Itu hanya menjadi legenda lain, dongeng atau fiksi. Sebaliknya, jika kita dapat menunjukkan bahwa pesan
Nabi itu benar, maka tidak hanya kita harus mengikutinya, tapi kita juga harus mencintainya. Mengikuti dia dan
mencintainya adalah jendela cinta Tuhan, dan orang yang telah mencapai cinta Tuhan adalah orang yang hatinya
mencerminkan belas kasihan, bimbingan, dan ketenangan ilahi.
Nabi Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬mengklaim kenabian lebih dari 1400 tahun yang lalu dengan pesan sederhana berikut ini:
Tidak ada yang layak disembah selain Tuhan, dan Nabi Muhammad SAW adalah utusan terakhir Tuhan.
Nabi Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬menjadi nabi pada usia 40 setelah menghabiskan beberapa waktu bermeditasi dan mencerminkan
di sebuah gua di luar Mekkah. Fajar kenabian dimulai dengan pewahyuan ayat-ayat pertama Al Qur'an. Pesan Alquran
itu sederhana: tujuan akhir hidup kita adalah menyembah Tuhan. Ibadah adalah istilah yang komprehensif dalam tradisi
spiritual Islam. Itu berarti mencintai, mengenal dan menaati Tuhan.
"Tidak ada yang bisa disembah dan tidak ada yang bisa mencintai selain Dia." [71]
Untuk menguji apakah klaimnya akan kenabian dan pesannya benar, kita harus secara rasional menyelidiki narasi dan
kesaksian sejarah mengenai kehidupan Nabi ‫ ﷺ‬. Begitu kita melakukan ini, kita akan berada dalam posisi untuk
mencapai kesimpulan yang seimbang dalam hal ini.
APAKAH DIA BERBOHONG?

Kepercayaannya
Sumber-sumber sejarah awal ‫ ﷺ‬kehidupan Nabi Muhammad menggambarkan dan menekankan integritas
karakternya. Dia bukan pembohong dan menegaskan bahwa hal itu tidak dapat dipertahankan. Alasan untuk ini
berlimpah, misalnya dia dikenal bahkan oleh musuh atas pesannya sebagai "Terpercaya" [72] .
Pesan Nabi Muhammad menggerogoti dan menantang struktur ekonomi dan kekuasaan masyarakat. Masyarakat Mekah
abad ketujuh didasarkan pada perdagangan dan perdagangan. Pemimpin masyarakat Mekah akan menarik para
pedagang ini dengan 360 berhala yang mereka miliki di Ka'bah - struktur berbentuk kubus yang dibangun oleh Abraham
sebagai rumah ibadah. Pesan Nabi itu sederhana namun dengan kuat menantang politeisme Arab abad
ketujuh. Pemimpin masyarakat itu pada awalnya mengejeknya, mengira Nabi ‫ ﷺ‬tidak akan memiliki dampak. Namun,
karena pesannya berangsur-angsur berakar pada pertentangan profil tinggi, kepemimpinan mulai menyalahgunakan
Nabi, baik secara emosional maupun fisik.
Dia dianiaya atas kepercayaannya; diboikot dan diasingkan dari kota kesayangannya - Mekkah. Dia kekurangan makanan
dan dilempari batu oleh anak-anak sampai-sampai darahnya basah kuyup. Istrinya meninggal dunia dan teman-
temannya yang terkasih disiksa dan dianiaya . [73] Bukti lebih lanjut dari Nabi ‫ ﷺ‬keandalan dan kredibilitas
diberlakukan dan didukung oleh fakta bahwa pembohong biasanya terletak untuk beberapa keuntungan
duniawi. Muhammad sangat menderita karena pesannya [74] dan secara terang-terangan menolak kekayaan dan
kekuatan yang ditawarkannya untuk menghentikan penyebaran pesannya. Dia tanpa kompromi dalam panggilannya
untuk kesatuan Tuhan.
Montgomery Watt, almarhum Profesor Emeritus dalam Studi Arab dan Islam mengeksplorasi hal ini di Muhammad di
Mekkah :
"Kesiapannya untuk menjalani penganiayaan atas kepercayaannya, karakter moral yang tinggi dari orang-orang yang
percaya kepadanya dan memandangnya sebagai pemimpin, dan kehebatan pencapaian utamanya - semua berpendapat
bahwa integritas dasarnya. Menganggap Muhammad seorang penipu menimbulkan lebih banyak masalah daripada
yang dipecahkannya. " [75]
APAKAH DIA TERTIPU?

Pengalaman Hidupnya
Ada banyak pengalaman selama karir kenabian Nabi Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬itu, jika dia tertipu, ia akan digunakan untuk
mendukung khayalan nya. Salah satu contoh adalah meninggalnya Nabi ‫ ﷺ‬anak, Ibrahim. Anak muda itu meninggal
pada usia dini dan pada hari ia meninggal ada gerhana matahari. Banyak orang Arab berpikir bahwa Tuhanlah yang telah
membuat gerhana terjadi karena putra nabi-Nya meninggal dunia. Jika Nabi ‫ ﷺ‬ditipu, dia akan menggunakan
pengalaman seperti itu untuk memperkuat klaimnya. Namun, dia tidak menolak pernyataan orang tersebut. Nabi
menjawab mereka dengan cara berikut:
"Matahari dan bulan tidak gerhana karena kematian seseorang dari orang-orang tapi dua tanda di antara tanda-
tanda Allah. When you see them stand up and pray.” [76]
His Prophecies
If someone is deluded, they have a strong conviction in a belief despite there being evidence to the contrary. The
teachings of Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬are not that of someone who is deluded. Amongst many of his teachings, he taught how to
perfect good character and be of service to others. Another way of looking at the issue of delusion is that when someone
is deluded they speak falsehood whilst believing it to be true. To undermine this claim, the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬foretold of many
things that would occur to him and his community after him, pertaining to victory, and the removal of tyrannical
kingdoms. These events occurred exactly as Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬foretold, and this is not something that is congruent with a
deluded individual. There were a number of instances when this occurred. Sebagai contoh:
His daughter Fatima (may God be pleased with her) would join him first of all after his death:
“Before his death, the Messenger called his daughter Fatima to his bedside and informed her that she would be the
first among his family to join him after his death. Fatima joined her father, the pride of mankind, six months later.” [77]
The Mongol invasion:
“The Hour will not be established till you fight with the Khudh and the Kirman from among the non-Arabs. They will be
of red faces, flat noses and small eyes; their faces will look like flat shields, and their shoes will be of hair.” [78]
Competing in the constructing tall buildings:
“Now, tell me of the Last Hour,” asked the man.
The Prophet replied, “The one asked knows no more of it than the one asking.”
“Then tell me about its signs,” said the man.
The Prophet replied, “That you see barefoot, unclothed bedouins competing in the construction of tall buildings.” [79]
Notice the detail in the prophecy, a specific people (the Arab bedouins of the region) were identified. Prophet
Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬could have easily played it safe by using more general language such as “That you see competition in
the construction of tall buildings…” which of course would be flexible enough to be applied to anyone in the world. Today
we find in the Arabian Peninsula, the Arabs who used to be impoverished herders of camels and sheep are competing in
building the tallest tower blocks. Today the Burj Khalifa in Dubai, United Arab Emirates, is the world's tallest man-made
structure at 828 metres.[80] A short time after it was finished, a rival family in Saudi Arabia already announced that
they will build a taller one (1000 metres) the Kingdom Tower — currently estimated to be completed in 2019 and thus
literally competing with each other over who can build the tallest building.[81]
Now what's remarkable is that up until only 50 or 60 years ago, the people of the region hardly had any houses at all. In
fact, most of them were still Bedouins, living in tents. It was only the discovery of oil in the 20 th
century that led to the
prosperity and transformation of the region. Were it not for oil, chances are the region would still be the barren desert
that it was at the time of the revelation of the Qur'an. If this were mere guesswork on his part, the discovery of oil would
represent a massive stroke of luck. Moreover, if Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬were merely guessing, wouldn't it have made
more sense to relate this prophecy to the superpowers of his time – Rome and Persia – who (unlike the Arabs) already
had a tendency to construct extravagant buildings and palaces?[82]
WAS HE BOTH DELUDED AND A LIAR?

It is not possible for an individual to be both deluded and a liar. Lying is something done with intent, whereas a delusion
stems from an individual's belief of an altered reality. The two are diametrically opposed phenomena. So it is logically
impossible, as the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬could not have been convinced that he was speaking the truth and yet it was
based on falsehood, and at the same time pretend to be speaking the truth but yet it being based on a lie!
WAS HE SPEAKING THE TRUTH?

Dr. William Draper in History of Intellectual Development of Europe wrote:
“Four years after the death of Justinian, AD 569, was born in Mecca, in Arabia, the man who, of all men, has exercised the
greatest influence upon the human race… To be the religious head of many empires, to guide the daily life of one-third of
the human race, may perhaps justify the title of a Messenger of God.” [83]
In light of addressing the other options, it can be argued the quote above represents the most rational
conclusion.
IN THEIR WORDS
Thinkers, philosophers and commentators have studied the life of the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬and this is what they had
to say:
Hans Kung (Swiss Christian philosopher and ecumenical Catholic theologian)
“We must affirm that he acted as a prophet and that he was a prophet. we must correct our attitude toward Islam.”[84]
Jules Masserman (psychoanalyst and professor of the Chicago University)
“Perhaps the greatest leader of all times was Mohammad, who combined all the three functions . To a lesser degree
Moses did the same.”[85]
Alphonse de Lamartine (French writer, poet and politician)
“If greatness of purpose, smallness of means, and astounding results are the three criteria of human genius, who could
dare to compare any great man in modern history with Muhammad? The most famous men created arms, laws and
empires only. They founded, if anything at all, no more than material powers which often crumbled away before their
eyes. This man moved not only armies, legislations, empires, peoples and dynasties, but millions of men in one-third of
the then inhabited world; and more than that, he moved the altars, the gods, the religions, the ideas, the beliefs and
souls... the forbearance in victory, his ambition, which was entirely devoted to one idea and in no manner striving for an
empire; his endless prayers, his mystic conversations with God, his death and his triumph after death; all these attest not
to an imposture but to a firm conviction which gave him the power to restore a dogma. This dogma was twofold, the unit
of God and the immateriality of God; the former telling what God is, the latter telling what God is not; the one
overthrowing false gods with the sword, the other starting an idea with words.”
“Philosopher, orator, apostle, legislator, warrior, conqueror of ideas, restorer of rational dogmas, of a cult without
images; the founder of twenty terrestrial empires and of one spiritual empire, that is Muhammad. As regards all standards
by which human greatness may be measured, we may well ask, is there any man greater than he?”[86]
John William Draper (American scientist, philosopher, and historian)
“Four years after the death of Justinian, AD 569, was born at Mecca, in Arabia the man who, of all men exercised the
greatest influence upon the human race…Mohammed.”[87]
David George Hogarth (English archaeologist and author)
“Serious or trivial, his daily behaviour has instituted a canon which millions observe this day with conscious mimicry. No
one regarded by any section of the human race as Perfect Man has been imitated so minutely. The conduct of the Founder
of Christianity has not so governed the ordinary life of His followers. Moreover, no Founder of a religion has been left on
so solitary an eminence as the Muslim Apostle.”[88]
Washington Irving (American author, essayist, biographer, historian, and diplomat)
“He was sober and abstemious in his diet, and a rigorous observer of fasts. He indulged in no magnificence of apparel,
the ostentation of a petty mind; neither was his simplicity in dress affected, but the result of a real disregard to distinction
from so trivial a source…In his private dealings he was just. He treated friends and strangers, the rich and poor, the
powerful and the weak, with equity, and was beloved by the common people for the affability with which he received
them, and listened to their complaints…His military triumphs awakened no pride nor vain glory, as they would have done
had they been effected for selfish purposes. In the time of his greatest power he maintained the same simplicity of
manners and appearance as in the days of his adversity. So far from affecting regal state, he was displeased if, on entering
a room, any unusual testimonial of respect were shown to him.”[89]
Annie Besant (British theosophist and nationalist leader in India. President of the Indian National Congress in 1917)
“It is impossible for anyone who studies the life and character of the great Prophet of Arabia, who knows how he taught
and how he lived, to feel anything but reverence for that mighty Prophet, one of the great messengers of the Supreme.
And although in what I put to you I shall say many things which may be familiar to many, yet I myself feel whenever I re-
read them, a new way of admiration, a new sense of reverence for that mighty Arabian teacher.”[90]
Bosworth Smith (Schoolmaster and author)
“He was Caesar and Pope in one; but he was Pope without Pope's pretensions, Caesar without the legions of Caesar:
without a standing army, without a bodyguard, without a palace, without a fixed revenue; if ever any man had the right
to say that he ruled by the right divine, it was Mohammed, for he had all the power without its instruments and without
its supports.”[91]
Montgomery Watt (Scottish historian, and Emeritus Professor in Arabic and Islamic studies)
“His readiness to undergo persecutions for his beliefs, the high moral character of the men who believed in him and
looked up to him as leader, and the greatness of his ultimate achievement – all argue his fundamental integrity. To
suppose Muhammad an impostor raises more problems than it solves. Moreover, none of the great figures of history is
so poorly appreciated in the West as Muhammad.”[92]
George Bernard Shaw (Irish playwright and a co-founder of the London School of Economics)
“He must be called the Saviour of Humanity. I believe that if a man like him were to assume the dictatorship of the modern
world, he would succeed in solving its problems in a way that would bring it much needed peace and happiness.”[93]
Mahatma Gandhi (leader of Indian independence movement)
“I wanted to know the best of one who holds today's undisputed sway over the hearts of millions of mankind....I became
more than convinced that it was not the sword that won a place for Islam in those days in the scheme of life. It was the
rigid simplicity, the utter self-effacement of the Prophet, the scrupulous regard for his pledges, his intense devotion to
his friends and followers, his intrepidity, his fearlessness, his absolute trust in God and in his own mission. These and not
the sword carried everything before them and surmounted every obstacle. When I closed the 2nd volume (of the
Prophet's biography), I was sorry there was not more for me to read of the great life.”[94]
Michael H. Hart (professor of astronomy, physics and the history of science)
secular level.”[95]
QUOTES ON LOVE
“Immature love says: 'I love you because I need you.' Mature love says 'I need you because I love you.'” Erich
Fromm
“Keep love in your heart. A life without it is like a sunless garden when the flowers are dead.” Oscar Wilde
“Where there is love, there is life.” Mahatma Gandhi
“Being deeply loved by someone gives you strength, while loving someone deeply gives you courage.” Lao Tzu
“Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.” Aristoteles
“The first duty of love is to listen” Paul Tillich
“Love is like a friendship caught on fire. In the beginning a flame, very pretty, often hot and fierce, but still only light
and flickering. As love grows older, our hearts mature and our love becomes as coals, deep-burning and
unquenchable.” Bruce Lee
“Blessed is the influence of one true, loving human soul on another.” George Elliot
“Kindness in words creates confidence. Kindness in thinking creates profoundness. Kindness in giving creates
love.” Lao Tzu
“Gravitation is not responsible for people falling in love.” Albert Einstein
“The course of true love never did run smooth.” William Shakespeare
“What force is more potent than love?” Igor Stravinsky
“Don't forget to love yourself.” Soren Kierkegaard
“The basis of reasoning, after faith in God, is loving kindness toward the people.” Prophet Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬
APPENDICES
APPENDIX 1: SOME INTERESTING FACTS ABOUT THE PROPHET
MUHAMMAD ‫ﷺ‬
HE NEVER WROTE A BIOGRAPHY, YET MORE HAS BEEN WRITTEN ABOUT HIM THAN ANY
OTHER PERSON
The Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬could not read or write, and he did not author any piece of work, including a biography.
However, there are more biographies about his life that any other person, living in the past or present.
HE IS THE MOST PRAISED AND MENTIONED PERSON IN THE WORLD (AND IT WILL
ALWAYS BE THAT WAY)
It is estimated that every micro-second someone is mentioning and praising the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬. His name
actually means the praised one.
Due to global time zones Muslim prayer times differ around the world. When the time for prayer comes in, the call to
prayer is announced. The call to prayer mentions the Prophet's ‫ ﷺ‬name:
God is great, God is great. God is great, God is great. I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship but God, I
bear witness that there is no deity worthy of worship but God. I bear witness Muhammad is the messenger of God, I
bear witness Muhammad is the messenger of God. Come to prayer, come to prayer. Come to success, come to success.
God is great, God is great. There is no deity worthy of worship but God.
The call to prayer is always being called, and therefore the Prophet's ‫ ﷺ‬name is always being mentioned.
In addition to this, Muslims around the world mention, pray for, and praise the Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬in their sermons, prayers,
and supplications. It is estimated that someone is always mentioning his name in the above context.
He is indeed the most praised and remembered person in the world.
WE HAVE MORE BIOGRAPHIES ABOUT THE PROPHET MUHAMMAD'S ‫ ﷺ‬COMPANIONS

THAN ANY OTHER PERSON'S
In Islamic history we have recorded biographies of around 10,000 companions of the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬. These
biographies are available for anyone to read, and they form part of Islamic historical criticism called 'ilm ul-rijaal (the
knowledge of people). This historical criticism was vital to ensure that what people attributed and said about the Prophet
Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬was authentic.
HE WAS DESCRIBED AS THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON TO HAVE LIVED

Michael H. Hart a Professor of astronomy, physics and the history of science in his book The 100: A Ranking Of The Most
Influential Persons in History argues that the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬should top the list of the most influential people
in the world:
secular level.”[96] [The 100: A Ranking Of The Most Influential Persons In History, New York, 1978, p. 33]
APPENDIX 2: IF GOD IS THE-LOVING, CAN HE HATE?

Before this question is answered we must understand that when we attribute anything to God, we have to remove any
anthropomorphic connotations. God in the Islamic tradition is unique and transcendent. The Qur'an affirms:
“There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the Hearing, the Seeing.” The Qur'an, Chapter 42, Verse 11
“Say: He is God, the Uniquely One.” The Qur'an, Chapter 12, Verse 1
Therefore, when we attribute things like hate or pleasure, it has to be understood in the context of His transcendence
and uniqueness.
Addressing the question about whether God hates, the answer is explained in the following points:
1. Logically speaking love necessitates hate. If one were to love everything, including that which denies
love, and prevents love, and removes it, then that would not be love at all. In order to love you have to dislike that
which prevents love.
2. If one loves, can they love evil or capriciousness? What does it mean to love murder, arrogance,
ingratitude or a rejection of the truth? Surely, loving those things is not love at all, but opposes love.
3. God is The-Loving and therefore hating that which is a barrier to His love or that which contradicts His
love is necessary. Otherwise it wouldn't be love at all.
This however is not to be confused with God's loving compassion for people. God via His mercy can love those who are
malevolent. But God explains the traits of those who deserve His special love, some include:
“And God loves the patient.” The Qur'an, Chapter 3, Verse 146
“For God loves those who are fair (and just).” The Qur'an, Chapter 49, Verse 9
“Certainly, God loves those who put their trust (in Him).” The Qur'an, Chapter 3, Verse 159
“God loves kindness in all matters.” Prophet Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬

“Truly, God loves those who turn unto him in repentance.” The Qur'an, Chapter 2, Verse 222
“For God loves the righteous (the pious).” The Qur'an. Chapter 9, Verse 4
“Truly, God loves the good-doers.” The Qur'an, Chapter 2, Verse 195
“God is All-Generous and He loves generosity in sale, purchase and judgment.” Prophet Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬
“If two individuals love each other for the sake of God, the stronger in love to his brother will be more loved by
God.” Prophet Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬
“The best loved deeds to God are the ones that are continuous even if they are not very many.” Prophet
Muhammad ‫ﷺ‬
God also explains what takes someone away from His special love, some of these things include:
“God does not love those who overstep the limits.” The Qur'an, Chapter 2, Verse 190
“God does not love evil doers.” The Qur'an, Chapter 3, Verse 140
“He does not love the wasteful.” The Qur'an, Chapter 7, Verse 31
“God does not love arrogant or boastful people.” The Qur'an, Chapter 31, Verse 18
The key question we need to ask ourselves is, what do I need to be enveloped with God's special love? The answer as
aforementioned in this book is simple: love and follow the Prophet Muhammad ‫ ﷺ‬, and by doing so, you will attain the
traits of those who God blesses with His special love.
Written by Andreas Tzortzis
REFERENSI
1. Erich Fromm. The Art of Loving. Harper & Row, New York. 1956, p. 22
2. Ibid, pp. 58-59.
3. Narrated by Abu Dawud
4. Al-Ghazali. Al-Ghazali on Love, Longing, Intimacy & Contentment. Islamic Texts Society Al-Ghazali
Series.
6. Miftaah Daar al-Sa'aadah, 2/88-90
9. Narrated by Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi
10. Al-Adab Al-Mufrad
17. Narrated by Bukhari, Muslim
19. Narrated by Bukhari, Muslim, Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah
21. Narrated by Ibn Hibban
25. Narrated by Abu Dawud and Tirmidhi
26. Narrated by Bukhari, Tareekh al-Akhbar
29. Narrated by Ahmad and Tirmidhi
31. Narrated by Bukhari, Muslim and Ahmad

49. Narrated by An Nasai
52. Ash-Shifa of Qadi 'Iyad
55. Al-Bayhaqi, Ibn Hibban, At-Tabarani and Abu Nu'aym
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59. Narrated Muslim
62. Zad al-Ma'ad 2/45
63. Narrated Bukhari
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66. Ibn maajah and al-Haakim
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72. Martin Lings. Muhammad: his life based on the earliest sources. 2nd Revised Edition. The Islamic Texts
Society. 1983, hal. 34
73. Ibid, p. 52
74. Ibid, pp. 53 – 79
75. W. Montgomery Watt. Muhammad at Mecca. Oxford. 1953, p. 52
80. http://www.burjkhalifa.ae/en/
81. http://edition.cnn.com/2014/04/17/world/meast/saudi-arabia-to-build-tallest-building-ever/
82. Abu Zakariya. The Eternal Challenge: A Journey Through The Miraculous Qur'an. 2015. Unpublished
version. This book will be published in the Summer of 2015.
83. John William Draper, MD, LLD, A History of the Intellectual Development of Europe,London 1875, Vol. 1,
pp. 329-330
84. “Christianity and World Religions: Dialogue with Islam”, vol. 3. The Edwin Mellen Press,1992
85. 'Who Were History's Great Leaders?' in TIME Magazine, July 15, 1974
86. Histoire de la Turquie, Paris 1854, Vol II, pp. 276-77
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88. Saudi, Oxford, 1922, p. 52
89. Kehidupan Mahomet, London, 1889, hlm. 192-3, 199
90. The Life Dan Ajaran Of Muhammad, Madras, 1932, p. 4
91. Mohammed dan Muhammadanisme, London 1874, p. 92
92. W. Montgomery, Mohammad di Mekah, Oxford 1953, p. 52
93. The Genuine Islam, Singapura, Vol. 1, No. 8, 1936

94. Young India, 1924
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Teks asli Inggris
The Qur'an is not different: it calls out to humanity, and it also warns and expresses glad
tidings.
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Who Do You Love

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Who Do You Love

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WHO DO YOU LOVE?

LOVING OURSELVES, LOVING GOD

LOVING GOD, LOVING THE PROPHET

The fourteenth century theologian Ibn al-Qayyim said:

“When will the hour be?”

The Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬replied,

“What have you prepared for it?”

The man replied,

“Nothing, except that I love God and His Apostle.”

The Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬said,

“You will be with those whom you love.” [7]

To love God we have to love what He loves.

why God described him in that way.

MERCY & COMPASSION

“God is compassionate and loves compassion.”[10]

CONTENTMENT & SPIRITUALITY

“Love for the people what you love for yourself.”[26]

CHARITY & HUMANITARIANISM

“Charity does not diminish wealth.”[33]

“Give the labourer his wages before his sweat dries.”[36]

“Every act of goodness is charity.”[37]

CHARACTER & MANNERS

“Beware of suspicion, for suspicion is the worst of false tale.”[43]

ENVIRONMENT AND ANIMALS

“Removing harmful things from the road is an act of charity.”[47]

FORBEARANCE, FORGIVENESS AND COMPASSION

“...piety, faithfulness and loyalty.”[57]

APPEARANCE AND APPROACHABILITY

Abdullah Ibn al-Harith said:

Al-Baraa’ Ibn ‘Aazib narrated:

Jaabir Ibn Samurah narrated:

‘Ali Ibn Abi Talib narrated:

HUMILITY AND MODESTY

“What did God’s messenger do at home?”

“I am but a man like yourselves. I am prone to forget just as you are.”[65]

The Prophet ‫ ﷺ‬would invoke his lord saying:

Abu Sa‘eed al-Khudri said,

Aisha (may God be pleased with her) said,

THE TRUTH OF HIS MESSAGE

“There is no one to worship and no one to love other than Him.”[71]

balanced conclusion in this regard.

The Mongol invasion:

“Now, tell me of the Last Hour,” asked the man.

“Then tell me about its signs,” said the man.

WAS HE BOTH DELUDED AND A LIAR?

WAS HE SPEAKING THE TRUTH?

Hans Kung (Swiss Christian philosopher and ecumenical Catholic theologian)

Jules Masserman (psychoanalyst and professor of the Chicago University)

Alphonse de Lamartine (French writer, poet and politician)

David George Hogarth (English archaeologist and author)

Washington Irving (American author, essayist, biographer, historian, and diplomat)

Bosworth Smith (Schoolmaster and author)

Mahatma Gandhi (leader of Indian independence movement)

Michael H. Hart (professor of astronomy, physics and the history of science)

“Love is composed of a single soul inhabiting two bodies.” Aristotle

“The first duty of love is to listen” Paul Tillich

“Gravitation is not responsible for people falling in love.” Albert Einstein

“What force is more potent than love?” Igor Stravinsky

“Don’t forget to love yourself.” Soren Kierkegaard

He is indeed the most praised and remembered person in the world.

WE HAVE MORE BIOGRAPHIES ABOUT THE PROPHET MUHAMMAD’S ‫ ﷺ‬COMPANIONS

HE WAS DESCRIBED AS THE MOST INFLUENTIAL PERSON TO HAVE LIVED

APPENDIX 2: IF GOD IS THE-LOVING, CAN HE HATE?