English Translation of Al-Quran
[42]. Surah Ash-Shura [The Consultation]
Ayat 13. He (Allah) has ordained for you the same religion (Islam) which He ordained for Nuh (Noah) (AS), and that which We have inspired in you (O Muhammad ﷺ [SAWW](PBUH), and that which We ordained for Ibrahim (Abraham) (AS), Musa (Moses) (AS) and ‘Iesa (Jesus) (AS) saying you should establish religion (i.e. to do what it orders you to do practically), and make no divisions in it (religion) (i.e. various sects in religion). Intolerable for the Mushrikun, is that to which you (O Muhammad ﷺ [SAWW](PBUH) call them. Allah chooses for Himself whom He wills, and guides unto Himself who turns to Him in repentance and in obedience.
Tafseer of Surah Al Shura (Consultation) Ayat 13. Allah’s Religion is the same in essence, whether given, for example, to Noah, Abraham, Moses, or Jesus, or to our Prophet ﷺ SAWW (PBUH). The source of unity is the revelation from Allah. In Islam it is “established” as an institution, and does not remain merely a vague suggestion. Faith, Duty, or Religion, is not a matter to dispute about. The formation of sects is against the very principle of Religion and Unity. What we should strive for is steadfastness in duty and faith, and unity among mankind. Unity, unselfishness, love for Allah and man, these things are inconsistent with selfish aggrandizement, unjust suppression of our fellow-creatures, false worship, and false conduct to our brethren. Hence the Gospel of Unity, though it is in complete accord with the pure pattern after which Allah made us, is yet hard to those who love self and falsehood. But Grace is free to all, and in His wise Plan. He will specially selected Teachers to show the Way to humanity, and no one who turns to Him will lack guidance.
English Translation of Hadith
Hazrat Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah ﷺ [SAWW](PBUH) said, “Allah does not look at your figures, nor at your attire but He looks at your hearts and accomplishments”.
[Muslim Book 32, Chapter 08, Hadith # 6221]
Lesson: as mentioned above in Surah Ash-Shura Ayat 13. “Allah chooses for Himself whom He wills, and guides unto Himself who turns to Him in repentance and in obedience” This Hadith highlights the importance of sincerity and good intention. It is, therefore, essential that every noble action should be based on these two virtues; and the heart should be free from all such things that destroy noble deeds. Hypocrisy, ostentation, greed for wealth, riches and other worldly things fall in the category of such evils. Since the true condition of heart is known to Allah alone, the true position of one’s actions will be known on the Day of Resurrection when one will be required for them by Allah. In this world, one will be treated according to his apparent condition while his insight will be left to Allah.
