Page by Page - Shaykh Ahsan Hanif

Page 336 - The True Purpose of Sacrifice

In this lesson of Sūrah Al-Ḥajj, verses 30–37, Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan Ḥanīf explains the importance of honouring the sacred limits and symbols of Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ, as they are a reflection of true taqwā. These verses call believers to uphold Tawḥīd by avoiding shirk, idols and false speech, while submitting wholeheartedly to Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ alone. Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan Ḥanīf highlights that the rites of sacrifice were prescribed for every nation so that they may remember Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ and recognise that He alone is worthy of worship. The verses also describe the qualities of the humble believers, whose hearts are filled with awe when Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ is mentioned, who remain patient through hardship, establish prayer and spend from what He has provided them. The sacrificial animals are among the symbols of Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ, providing benefit while serving as a means of worship and a way to feed those in need. Ultimately, Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ reminds us that neither the meat nor the blood of the sacrifice reaches Him, but rather the taqwā and sincerity within our hearts. These verses remind us that the true value of every act of worship lies in sincere devotion, gratitude and obedience to Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ.

Page 335 - The Sanctity of Al-Masjid Al-Ḥarām and the Call of Hajj

In this lesson of Sūrah Al-Ḥajj, verses 25-29, Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan Ḥanīf explains the sanctity of Al-Masjid Al-Ḥarām and the importance of honouring the sacred House of Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ. The verses warn those who prevent people from the way of Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ and from visiting the Sacred Mosque, which has been made for all people, whether those residing there or those who travel from afar. Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan Ḥanīf highlights how Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ instructed Prophet Ibrāhīm عَلَیهِ‌السَّلام to establish the House upon Tawḥīd and to purify it for those who perform ṭawāf, prayer, and prostration. The call to Hajj was then made, bringing people from every distant path to witness its benefits, remember Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ, offer sacrifices, feed the poor, fulfil their obligations, and complete ṭawāf around the Ancient House. These verses remind us of the honour of Hajj, the legacy of Prophet Ibrāhīm عَلَیهِ‌السَّلام, and the importance of worshipping Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ with sincerity and devotion.

Page 334 - Creation’s Submission and Mankind’s Destiny

In this lesson of Sūrah Al-Ḥajj, verses 17-24, Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan Ḥanīf explains that Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ will judge between all people on the Day of Resurrection, including those who believe, the Jews, the Sabeans, the Christians, the Magians, and those who associate partners with Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ. Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ reminds us that He is a witness over all things and that everything in the heavens and the earth submits to Him, including the sun, moon, stars, mountains, trees, animals, and many among mankind. The verses describe the two groups who will dispute over their Lord, with the disbelievers facing the punishment of the Fire and the believers who perform righteous deeds being granted gardens beneath which rivers flow, adorned with blessings and guided towards good speech and the praiseworthy path. This lesson serves as a powerful reminder of Allāh’s perfect justice, the certainty of the Hereafter, and the importance of submitting to Him alone.

Page 333 - Warnings Against Arrogance and False Beliefs

In this lesson of Sūrah Al-Ḥajj, verses 8-16, Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan Ḥanīf discusses the dangers of arguing about Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ without knowledge, guidance, or clear evidence. Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ warns against those who turn people away from His path out of arrogance and reminds us that every person will be held accountable for their actions. The verses also describe those who worship Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ with uncertainty, remaining firm only when life is easy but turning away when faced with trials. Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan Ḥanīf explains that relying upon anything besides Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ leads to loss, while true success belongs to those who believe, remain patient, and perform righteous deeds. The lesson concludes by reminding us that the Qur’ān was revealed as clear guidance and that Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ guides whom He wills. These verses serve as a reminder to strengthen our faith, seek knowledge, and remain steadfast through every test.

Page 332 - The Certainty of Allāh’s Power

In this lesson of Sūrah Al-Ḥajj, verses 1-7, Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan Ḥanīf explains the greatness of the Day of Judgement and the certainty of resurrection. Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ commands mankind to be mindful of Him and describes the terrifying events of the Final Hour, when the severity of that day will overwhelm creation. The verses warn against following falsehood and arguing about Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ without knowledge, while reminding us of the consequences of following Shayṭān. Shaykh Dr. Aḥsan Ḥanīf highlights the signs of Allāh’s power through the stages of human creation, the revival of the barren earth after rainfall, and the fact that Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ is the ultimate truth who gives life to the dead and has power over all things. These verses serve as a powerful reminder that the Hour will surely come, and that every person should prepare for the meeting with Allāh عَزَّوَجَلَّ.