7th Condition – Acceptance (Al-Qabool)

7. Acceptance (al-Qabool) – contrary to rejection and denial

It is not enough to recognize the greatness of Islam and that it is the Truth, but this recognition must be ascertained by humble acceptance and humility. One must accept the statement of Laa ilaaha illallaah in his/her heart as well as on their tongue. The adherence to the meaning of this declaration safeguards the believer from false pride, arrogance and disdainfulness:

إِنَّهُمْ كَانُوا إِذَا قِيلَ لَهُمْ لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ يَسْتَكْبِرُونَ / وَيَقُولُونَ أَئِنَّا لَتَارِكُوا آلِهَتِنَا لِشَاعِرٍ مَّجْنُونٍ

Truly, when it was said to them: Lâ ilâha ill-Allâh (none has the right to be worshipped but Allâh), they puffed themselves up with pride (i.e. denied it) / And (they) said: “Are we going to abandon our âliha (gods) for the sake of a mad poet?. (As-Saffat 37:35-36)

The Muslim must realize that this testimony stands against bigoted and blind imitation and calls for an acceptance of the teachings of Islam according to the understanding of those who followed the correct path. They are the companions and those who follow their footsteps until the day of resurrection. This path is knows as the Path of as-Salafus-Saalih (righteous predecessors).

The Prophet (salallaahu ‘alayhi wasalam) gave amazing parables for those who accept and those who reject the guidance and teachings of Islam. He said:
“The example of guidance and knowledge with which Allaah has sent me is like abundant rain falling on the earth, some of which was fertile soil that absorbed rain water and brought forth vegetation and grass in abundance. (And) another portion of it was hard and held the rain water and Allaah benefited the people with it and they utilized it for drinking, making their animals drink from it and for irrigation of the land for cultivation. (And) a portion of it was barren which could neither hold the water nor bring forth vegetation (then that land gave no benefit). The first is the example of the person who comprehends Allaah’s religion and gets benefit (from knowledge) which LAllaah has revealed through me (the Prophet) and learns and then teaches others. The last example is that of a person who does not care for it and does not take Allaah’s guidance revealed through me (he is like that barren land). [Collected by Al-Bukhaaree].

Previous Conditions:

1. Knowledge

2. Certainty

3. Sincerity

4. Truthfulness

5. Love

6. Submission

The next condition we will discuss is Disbelief in Taaghoot, InshaAllaah.