Lowest of the Low- Reflections Ramadan 11

Imagine if you were born into an extremely oppressed tribe. In your early youth, you saw two people fighting and one of them asked you for your help. As you tried to separate the two, your blow killed the other man. This really was the last straw. Now you are wanted for murder. You run away at the advice of a well-wisher. But you have nowhere to go.

You probably know who I'm talking about. But before I reveal the identity, let me continue the story.

Tired, dejected and with no personal belongings you arrive at an unknown place and rest under a tree. You make a supplication to Allah (swt)- Oh Lord, truly I am in need of whatever good you give me.

This is the point where things begin to change for you, for the better. It was a small gesture of yours, helping two young women fill their bucket with water, that led on to to beautiful things in life, but of course, many challenges as well.

Many years later you are married and wish to return to your homeland. Your journey is rather eventful.
Musa (as) feared that the Egyptians would kill him, because he had killed one of them. This was his biggest fear as he was travelling back. He asked his Lord to let his brother go with him and talk to them, since he was more eloquent in speech. Musa (as) was extremely worried and he tried to come up with excuses to simplify his dilemma. He was given two Clear Signs and was completely new to his mission of delivering Allah's message. At that point, he was feeling very low. Even though Allah (swt) forgave him, he knew he had taken someone's life, and he was extremely remorseful. He was in no position of power. Plus, he had a family to take care of, and if something were to happen to him, what would they do in a foreign land? His fears were dark and his situation was extremely bleak. [This story is mentioned in Surah Qasas.]

And at this point, as he made dua, Allah (swt) responded saying, "We are with you, and will listen (to your call)." [As Shu'ara: 15]
Now, this is profound because it is Allah (swt) speaking directly to Musa (as), and telling him that He, the Almighty is with him. Musa (as) was a Prophet (pbuh) and hence he had the privelege of Allah's conversations with him.
But we are also Allah's creations, His slaves whom He loves and showers with mercy and forgives. He is forever watching over us. It is for us to know that Allah (swt) is with us when we are feeling low.

Alhamdulillah I finished reading the Qur'an yesterday (and finished second!). Now round 2 inshallah, but at a much slower pace. Over the last 10 days, I'd think often how much easier it would be for me to read the Qur'an if I had it memorised. Lesser mistakes, more understanding, better recitation, and the best part, to be able to recite the Qur'an at any time, anywhere without depending on the book.


Here's an absolutely CUTE video (50 sec):