*By Sayed Abazar Wahedy*

As the blessed month of Dhul Hijjah begins, we extend heartfelt congratulations to the believers. May Allah (SWT) grant us the tawfiq (divine success) to be among those who follow Allah SWT’s commands with obedience and sincerity. This month, rich with spiritual opportunity, calls for strength—not only physical strength for those performing Hajj but, more importantly, the spiritual strength of taqwa and iman (faith).

*The True Essence of Dhikr (Remembrance)*

In Surah Al-Ahzab, verses 41-42, Allah SWT commands:

> “O you who believe, remember Allah with much remembrance, and glorify Him morning and evening.”

There are two levels of dhikr:

Dhikr Lisani (verbal remembrance), such as reciting “La ilaha illallah” or “SubhanAllah.”

Dhikr Amali (remembrance through action) is the highest form of worship.

It is not enough to utter words of praise while indulging in sinful acts. The most powerful dhikr occurs when we act by Allah’s commands—even when difficult. A true believer restrains himself from sins like backbiting, even when surrounded by others indulging in it. Quran likens backbiting to eating the flesh of one’s dead brother—a vivid and revolting image meant to deter such behavior.

*Practical Ways to Avoid Sin*

When faced with sinful conversations:

Redirect the topic with positivity.

Share a hadith, joke, or Quranic verse.

If none of these work, respectfully leave the gathering.

Silence in the face of sin equals participation. Even listening passively to gossip makes one complicit. True remembrance is in resisting these temptations and maintaining spiritual integrity.

*Charity, Kindness, and Consistency in Action*

Every act done sincerely for Allah is dhikr:

Giving charity.

Praying on time.

Smiling at your parents or spouse.

Teaching your children the values of Islam.

As the Qur’an says in Surah Asr:

> “Indeed, mankind is in loss, except those who believe, do righteous deeds, enjoin each other to truth and patience.”

Iman (faith) and ‘amal (righteous deeds) are like wings—they must exist together for one to spiritually soar.

*Seeking Tranquility: The Human Quest*

Every human seeks peace—some look for it in wealth, others in power. But true tranquility lies in the remembrance of Allah:

> “Surely in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” (Qur’an 13:28)

Even the sight of the Kaaba fills one with serenity because it is the epicenter of Dhikr. This peace cannot be found in material gain—it is the gift of divine presence.

*Life Lessons from Amirul Mu’minin (Imam Ali AS)*

Imam Ali (AS) exemplified justice and humility. He treated all equally, based on divine justice—not tribal or personal affiliation. This spirit of fairness and integrity cost him supporters, but he remained firm on divine principles.

Even his poet, Najashi, who expected leniency after committing a crime, was not spared. Imam Ali AS upheld divine law, showing that true dhikr is in adherence, not favoritism.

*Our Connection with Allah SWT*

True du’a, like in Dua Kumayl, starts not with requests but with praise and acknowledgment of our weaknesses. Imam Ali AS wept in prayer, showing raw vulnerability, confessing he had nothing to take to the grave but brokenness and sincerity.

We must learn from children how to beg Allah SWT with persistence and humility, not entitlement. Du’a is our spiritual lifeline.

*A Call to Action*

This month of Dhul Hijjah and the events surrounding Hajj remind us to stay on the path marked by divine guidance. Like travelers in a vast cave, venturing away from the guided path can lead to being lost. The Qur’an, Prophetic teachings and Ahlulbayt are our ropes of safety, so do not experiment with shortcuts in religion. The risk is your soul.

Let us strive to be true followers of Imam Ali (AS), to embody justice, to resist sin, and to seek Allah SWT sincerely—not just with words, but with action.

May Allah SWT include us among the pilgrims in spirit and deed and grant us the intercession of Imam Ali AS on the Day of Judgment. Ameen.