Turning the Tide - Chapter 1

“Every soul will be held in pledge for its deeds.”
[Surah Al- Muddaththir, 74:38]

So what did we all think of the first chapter?

SubhanAllah I loved it just as much the second time round! Very appropriate and a beautiful reminder and I’m sure everyone can take something from this chapter.

The chapter begins with an elegant description of the soul – which also could pose as a perfect description of Wide Oceans, the natural counter-part chosen by Sister Suma. The imagery was exquisite and even though I was reading this on an early morning bus into the City Centre, I still found myself sinking into the peace of my imagination and relaxed completely with a contented smile on my face. A smile that actually stayed with me for the rest of the day!

The Myriad Voices continued the bliss, until one Voice in particular struck a chord with me;

“The soul today is left to collapse and descend into annihilation, taking with it the heart and mind in a downward spiral, into the abyss of despair and conflict.”

These words made me stop and close the book as I contemplated their implication; lately I have been feeling low and almost ill as I drift through this Dunya attempting to succeed in things which actually have no significance in the long run. Doctors’ appointments, exercise, trying to have my 5-a-day – not of which made me feel any better. But I forgot about my Soul. Our souls need regular and quality nourishment.

I was given a further reminder in The Eternal Sources section:

“’Everyone starts his day and is a vendor of his soul, either freeing it or bringing about its ruin.’ [Muslim]”

If that wasn’t a sign that it’s time for change, I don’t know what is! The section continued with verses and hadiths reminding me of Allah’s compassion and mercy, the perfect continuation. This book lead me through its words and helped me reach the realisation that my soul needed attention, I was then provided with courage and motivation with the verses and hadiths leading me to remember that the task of revitalising my soul was not a journey I was going to travel alone. Allah, “Our Sustainer is He Who gave to each [created] thing its form and nature, and further, gave [it] guidance.” [Surah Ta Ha, 20:50.]

Following this comforting thought I was provided with information on the power of dua; the ultimate tool I’d need if I had any hope of allowing my soul to blossom. The one dua I found myself repeating a few times is the following:

“O Allah, I have indeed oppressed my soul excessively and none can forgive sins except You. So forgive me with forgiveness from Yourself and have mercy upon me. Surely, You are the most Forgiving, the ever Merciful.” [Bukhari]

To conclude my epiphany, I was given the final boost of inspiration I needed; the beautiful story of the amazing Hajr, may Allah be pleased with her. Close to tears, my heart pounding I read her story. Even though I knew the outcome I held my breath and melted again into Sister Suma’s graceful wording. With a smile on my face and determination in my heart, I finished the chapter and closed the book.

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What did you all think of the first chapter?? Post your comments and questions below!