Kem Ibadah

Assalamu'alaikum Warrahmah,

A weekend full of knowledge and awareness, coupled with the sweetness of brotherhood, was perhaps the best weekend I have experienced ever. Kem Ibadah is not merely a religious event and to be honest, the event is frankly tiring, but it also incorporates social into the camp and that made it even more fun.

One cannot deny the potential positive aftereffects of this camp. It strengthens the brotherhood (or sisterhood for sisters) between muslims. There were fifty brothers attending the camp and I knew only half of them (before the camp). Throughout the weekend, we get to know each other; get to know our old friends better and at the same time making new friends. Once the camp is finished, you feel like you're missing your old and new-found friends. And later, the separation will actually form an even stronger bond; you'll travel miles away just to visit your friends, help them when they are in need and always remind each other.

Speaking of a reminder, I was entrusted to give out a tazkirah for the camp. Alhamdulillah, anything that's good will be supported by Allah and I did quite okay. Remember, don't be afraid to do something good as Allah will reward and help you for your good deeds. Aside from that, it's a good practice for public speaking and I found enjoyment in doing it. Hamdan Lillah. I hope I keep enjoying in doing this kind of thing.

Here are some pictures from the brothers' side:

I will post my speech. InsyaAllah.

"And hold fast, all of you, to the rope of Allah, and do not separate" (3:103)

Purpose of Life

Assalamu'alaikum Warrahmah

Everything has a purpose. Your shoes are meant to make you walk comfortably and keep your feet from harm. Your clothings are meant to keep your body warm. Your computers are meant to keep you entertained and make your works more efficient. Your eyes, your eyelashes, everything. Even the humble earthworm has one; to make the soil fertile.

I ask you brothers and sisters: what's the purpose of your existence?

"I didn't create Jinn and Men except to worship Me." (Ad-Dzariyyat:57)

Worship is a poor translation of the 'Ibadah. 'Ibadah is something that you do that Allah loves, backed by your most sincerest intention only for the Almighty. We tend to think 'Ibadah as things like Solat, Fasting, Hajj, and Charities. How about walking, working or even doing sports? These are 'Ibadah, as long as you do the way Allah wants you to do!

Some might disagree with me on the statement I'm going to announce, but if you learnt Arabic (or knew about it), you would.

Islam is not a religion.

Islam is not a religion.

And for the last time it is not a religion.

Let me tell you why. For us, non-Arabic speakers, we tend to translate Ad-din as religion which again, like Ibadah, is a bad translation. What it actually means is a way of life. If you're not convinced, just read the Quran and Sunnah. You'll find guidelines and manuals to everything, from your typical 'Ibadah' to finance and even guidelines on how you should enter the toilet! Yes, that's like everything. It covers all.

Reflect yourself. Everyone can advice you a million times, but the only one who can change yourself is indeed yourself.

May we be guided by Allah.

Wallahu'alam

PS: Some of the above statements are taken from the speakers of IAW. Jazakumullah.