An Ibadan-based Islamic cleric, Ustadh Rasheed Athaqofy, has urged Muslims to believe in the total trustworthiness of the tenet of predestination (Al Qadar).
Athaqofy stated this during the second annual Ramadan lecture of Ile Alfa Sons and Daughters of Aliwo Royal Family, held at Ile Alfa Compound, Agodi, Ibadan.
The lecture, entitled Qadar: ‘Why is it so difficult to understand?’ was well attended by Ile Alfa sons, daughters, Royal Fathers, princes and princess of the Aliwo royal family, and personalities across different religious groups in the state.
He explained that none of the Muslim’s faith will be complete unless he believes that whatever befalls him could not have missed him, and whatever misses him could not have befallen him.
The cleric noted that everything is subject to the will and decree of Allah, as Allah says in the Quran, which means: “Indeed, all things we created with predestination.” [Quran 54:49]
He said that Muslims must acknowledge that whatever befalls them is in accordance with Allah’s will and plan, saying that they must place their trust and reliance in Allah, as Allah brims with wisdom in all matters.
He urged Muslims to strive to seek the “Night of Destiny,” as it is hidden in one of the last 10 nights of the month of Ramadan.
He explained that the last 10 days of Ramadan were special in the life of every Muslim, pointing out that they were the most blessed days in the holy month of Ramadan.
According to him, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) used to devote himself to worship during the last 10 days of the month, hoping to be closer to Allah.
According to him, when you believe in qadar, you will be more optimistic, knowing that the one who has put you in your present circumstance has done so for a reason.
“When you believe in qadar, you will work through or bear your trials and difficult times because Allah does not burden a soul beyond what it can bear. (2:286).
“You know that with every difficulty there will be ease, and you will have a sense of tawakul, or dependence on Allah. You will put your full trust in Allah, which brings about a sense of relief and comfort in times of distress.
“Verily, with every hardship comes to ease!” (94:6)
When you believe in qadar, you will naturally become a generous and kind person, especially to those who are less fortunate. You will know that the One who gave you what you have can easily take it away or easily bless you with more.
“When you believe in qadar, you gain courage because you will be able to face tough times knowing that everything is ultimately in the hands of Allah,” He stated.
In his remarks, the Senator representing Oyo South Senatorial District, Senator Kola Balogun, said the lecture was important because everything that was said was an inspiration by the Holy Quran.
He noted that the lecture was based on the total teaching of the Holy Quran and all Muslims do not have any other philosophical tenet that is guiding them.
He congratulated the entire family of Ile-Alfa, adding that their forefathers will continue to be happy with them as they do not allow their legacy to die, urging them to keep the flag flying.
He explained that Ile Alfa is a place where the entire Aliwo family draws their Islamic inspiration.
Earlier, in his welcome address, one of the Ile Alfa family, Dr. Abdul Rasheed Fasasi, said that the lecture was the second annual Ramadan lecture that was targeted at the forefathers that have left the big house.
He explained that the event was also meant to organize special prayers for those that have used the compound and have answered the call of Allah, and to the entire Ile Alfa Sons and Daughters.
He hinted that the annual Ramadan lecture has been used to cement relationships among all sons and daughters of Ile Alfa.
He, however, commended the entire family of the Ile Alfa for making the event a success and prayed that God spears their lives beyond the next year.
