Renowned Islamic scholar Dr AbdulHakeem AbdulLateef has imparted valuable guidance to members of the Nasrul-Lahi-L-Fatih Society (NASFAT) in London on attaining Allah’s blessings.
Speaking at the 7th Biennial Conference organised by NASFAT, AbdulLateef emphasised the necessity for a paradigm shift within the Muslim community.
AbdulLateef acknowledged prominent role of NASFAT within Nigeria’s Muslim organizations, noting its extensive engagement in spiritual exercises and activities. However, he underscored that prayers alone are insufficient.
“Prayer has been central to NASFAT’s focus, reflecting a fundamental pillar of Islam as prescribed in the Quran (40:60), where Allah commands believers to invoke Him, promising a response,” he emphasised.
He elaborated, “While NASFAT members faithfully respond to Allah’s call, it is crucial to recognise that the efficacy of prayers is contingent upon specific conditions. Prayers alone are not inherently efficacious; they require the necessary prerequisites to yield results.”
“We turn to prayer because challenges surround us. Evil people are preparing fire, whether from within our families or workplaces. However, Allah alone has the power to transform adversity, as promised in Quran 5:11. Allah assures believers that those who seek harm will be thwarted and disarmed. He shields us from our adversaries, preventing them from causing us harm. Despite our enemies’ readiness to revel in our misfortune, Allah safeguards us. Therefore, how should we respond to Allah’s protection?”
AbdulLateef emphasised that merely saying “Alhamdulillah” (praise be to Allah) without accompanying actions renders it a hollow expression. He pointed out that when things go awry, it often stems from a singular sin.
He asserted, “The gravest offense against Allah is not shirk (associating partners with Allah); it is ingratitude. Allah does not tolerate ingratitude. Despite His countless blessings upon us, we often respond with ingratitude. When a nation displays ingratitude, it suffers from hunger and insecurity.”
AbdulLateef highlighted Allah’s teachings on gratitude in the Quran, using the example of a horse’s obedience to his master to symbolise gratitude. He stressed that obedience to Allah’s commandments is the ultimate demonstration of gratitude.
“He is our Creator. Although He owes us nothing, the moment He brought us into existence, we became indebted to Him,” he emphasized to the gathering.
AbdulLateef urged attendees to surrender unconditionally to Allah and cautioned against succumbing to selfish desires.
