Seeking knowledge is one of the most valuable pursuits in life. It shapes our understanding of the world, builds wisdom, and improves both personal and communal well-being. However, acquiring knowledge is not just about accumulating facts; it involves following ethical guidelines and cultivating manners that enhance both the learning process and its impact. This portfolio outlines key manners and principles to observe while seeking knowledge, which ensure that the pursuit is both fruitful and respectful.

1. Sincerity in Intention (Ikhlās)

The foundation of seeking knowledge lies in the purity of intention. The ultimate goal of acquiring knowledge should be to benefit oneself and others, and to seek the pleasure of God or to serve humanity if non-religious. Ego, vanity, or a desire to outshine others are detrimental to this pursuit. Always ask yourself why you are seeking a particular form of knowledge and ensure your purpose aligns with positive and selfless objectives.

Example:

• Before beginning any study or research, take a moment to reflect on your intention and refocus it towards benefiting yourself and others.

2. Humility (Tawādhu)

No matter how much knowledge you accumulate, there is always more to learn. Humility is key to keeping yourself open to new perspectives and ideas. Knowledge should never make you arrogant. Instead, the more you know, the more you realize how much you don’t know.

Example:

• When engaging in discussions, be open to others’ perspectives and acknowledge that you can learn from people who may have different levels or areas of expertise.

3. Respect for Teachers and Scholars

Knowledge is passed down through generations, and your teachers, books, or even mentors deserve utmost respect. Be courteous, listen attentively, and show gratitude to those who have paved the way for your learning. Avoid disrespecting scholars, both past and present, even if you disagree with them.

Example:

• Always give credit to the source of your learning. If you’re referencing a scholar, acknowledge their contributions respectfully, whether you agree or disagree with them.

4. Patience (Sabr)

Learning takes time and requires patience. There will be moments of frustration or difficulty in understanding complex concepts, but persistence is crucial. Do not rush the process or seek shortcuts. Mastery comes from consistency and the willingness to endure challenges along the way.

Example:

• Break complex ideas into smaller steps and study them gradually, rather than attempting to grasp everything at once. Celebrate small victories in understanding, and be patient with difficult topics.

5. Being Systematic and Organized

Knowledge, especially when vast and diverse, requires a systematic approach. Organize your studies, maintain structured notes, and develop clear learning goals. This not only enhances retention but also ensures that your pursuit of knowledge is comprehensive.

Example:

• Create a study schedule, break your subjects into categories, and prioritize the most important or challenging areas. Use tools like mind maps or outlines to organize ideas coherently.

The Hadith of Jibril is one of the most significant and comprehensive narrations in the Islamic tradition. It encapsulates the core tenets of Islam, faith, and spiritual excellence. Narrated by Umar ibn al-Khattab, this hadith provides a concise framework for understanding the essentials of Islamic belief and practice. This portfolio delves into the text of the hadith, its key lessons, and its relevance to everyday life for Muslims.

Text of Hadith Jibril

The Hadith Jibril is found in Sahih Muslim and other major hadith collections. Umar ibn al-Khattab reported that one day, while they were sitting with the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), a man with exceedingly white clothes and dark hair approached them. There were no signs of travel on him, and no one among the companions knew him. He sat down close to the Prophet and began to question him.

Key Parts of Hadith Jibril

1. Islam (Submission)

The man asked the Prophet Muhammad, “What is Islam?” The Prophet replied:

“Islam is to testify that there is no god but Allah, and Muhammad is His messenger, to perform the prayers, to give zakat, to fast during the month of Ramadan, and to perform the pilgrimage to the House (if you are able).”

These five pillars form the foundation of Islamic practice. They are the core outward actions that every Muslim is obligated to observe.

2. Iman (Faith)

The man then asked, “What is Iman?” The Prophet responded:

“Iman is to believe in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, the Last Day, and to believe in divine decree, both the good and the bad.”

The six articles of faith outline the core beliefs that a Muslim holds in their heart. These articles emphasize the metaphysical aspects of the faith, focusing on the unseen elements that form a Muslim’s worldview.

3. Ihsan (Excellence)

The man asked further, “What is Ihsan?” The Prophet said:

“Ihsan is to worship Allah as if you see Him, for even though you do not see Him, He sees you.”

Ihsan refers to the inner spiritual quality of a believer. It focuses on sincerity and excellence in worship, leading to a deeper and more conscious relationship with God.

4. The Hour (Day of Judgment)

The man asked, “When is the Hour?” The Prophet replied:

“The one questioned knows no better than the questioner.”

When asked about the signs of the Last Day, the Prophet described certain events and signs, including the prevalence of immorality, societal upheaval, and the inversion of social norms. These signs serve as reminders of the temporal nature of this world.

Lessons and Key Insights from Hadith Jibril

1.Comprehensive Framework of Islam

This hadith is often considered a summary of the entire religion. It addresses the physical actions of worship, the beliefs that reside in the heart, and the spiritual perfection that a believer should strive for. It serves as a holistic guide to Islamic life.

2. The Three Dimensions of Faith

The hadith emphasizes three key dimensions of a Muslim’s religious life:

• Islam (outward actions)

• Iman (inward belief)

• Ihsan (spiritual excellence)

Together, these form a complete and balanced approach to faith, showing that Islam is not just about rituals or dogmatic belief but also about cultivating a deep inner consciousness of God.

3. The Importance of Ihsan

Ihsan is one of the most profound concepts in Islam. It teaches Muslims to strive for excellence in everything they do, whether it’s in worship or in daily interactions. It stresses the importance of sincerity and awareness of God at all times, bringing mindfulness to every action.

4. Belief in the Unseen

Iman stresses the importance of believing in unseen realities. Faith in God, His angels, His books, and the divine decree highlights that Muslims must trust in realities beyond the physical world. This reminds believers to be humble in the face of the unknown and to submit to the divine will.

5. Emphasis on Accountability and the Afterlife

The mention of the Day of Judgment and the signs of the Last Hour serve as a reminder of the impermanence of life and the ultimate accountability that awaits every individual. This aspect encourages Muslims to live a life of consciousness and responsibility.

Conclusion

The Hadith Jibril is a cornerstone in Islamic thought, offering a structured and comprehensive understanding of the religion. Through its discussion of Islam

The Six Pillars of Iman represent the core beliefs of a Muslim’s faith. These are essential articles that every believer must affirm in their heart. This portfolio focuses on the first three pillars of Iman: belief in Allah, belief in His angels, and belief in His books. Each of these pillars forms a crucial aspect of the Islamic worldview, shaping how a Muslim relates to their Creator, the unseen world, and divine guidance.

1. Belief in Allah (Tawhid)

The first and most fundamental pillar of Iman is belief in Allah, the One and Only God. This belief is known as Tawhid and emphasizes the oneness, uniqueness, and sovereignty of Allah. It is the central tenet that defines Islam.

Aspects of Belief in Allah:

• Tawhid al-Rububiyyah (Oneness of Lordship):

Belief that Allah is the sole creator, sustainer, and ruler of the universe. Everything that exists is by His will, and nothing happens without His permission.

• Tawhid al-Uluhiyyah (Oneness of Worship):

Belief that Allah alone is worthy of worship. All forms of devotion, prayer, and acts of worship should be directed to Him exclusively, without associating any partners with Him.

• Tawhid al-Asma wa Sifat (Oneness of Names and Attributes):

Belief in the perfect names and attributes of Allah, as described in the Quran and Sunnah. These names and attributes are unique to Him, and no one shares in them.

Key Lessons:

• Sincerity in Worship: Since Allah alone is worthy of worship, all acts of worship (salah, fasting, zakat, etc.) should be done sincerely for Him.

• Reliance on Allah: Believing in Allah’s absolute control over the universe gives the believer a sense of peace and reliance on Him in times of difficulty or uncertainty.

• Rejection of Idolatry: Belief in Tawhid necessitates the rejection of all forms of polytheism or associating partners with Allah (shirk).

Practical Application:

• Regularly engage in dhikr (remembrance of Allah) to strengthen your connection with Him.

• Reflect on the signs of Allah in creation (e.g., nature, the universe) to deepen your understanding of His power and majesty.

• Ensure that acts of worship are performed with sincerity, focusing solely on pleasing Allah.

Key Lessons:

• Sincerity in Worship: Since Allah alone is worthy of worship, all acts of worship (salah, fasting, zakat, etc.) should be done sincerely for Him.

• Reliance on Allah: Believing in Allah’s absolute control over the universe gives the believer a sense of peace and reliance on Him in times of difficulty or uncertainty.

• Rejection of Idolatry: Belief in Tawhid necessitates the rejection of all forms of polytheism or associating partners with Allah (shirk).

2. Belief in the Angels (Mala’ika)

The second pillar of Iman is belief in angels. Angels are beings created from light, who serve Allah by fulfilling His commands without any deviation. Although they are unseen, they play crucial roles in the spiritual and physical realms of existence.

Roles and Responsibilities of Angels:

• Messengers of Divine Revelation: The angel Jibril (Gabriel) is known as the chief messenger of divine revelation. He was responsible for conveying the Quran to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him).

• Recorders of Deeds: Angels are assigned to each person to record their good and bad deeds. These records will be presented on the Day of Judgment.

• Carrying Out Allah’s Commands: Angels perform various tasks by Allah’s command, including bringing life and death, protecting believers, and maintaining the natural order of the universe.

Key Lessons:

• Awareness of Accountability: The knowledge that angels are recording every action motivates Muslims to be conscious of their deeds and strive for righteousness.

• Gratitude for Protection: Muslims are reminded to be grateful for the protection and care they receive from angels, even though these acts often go unnoticed.

• Respect for the Unseen: Belief in angels instills a sense of humility and respect for the unseen world, which plays an essential role in Islamic spirituality.

3. Belief in the Books of Allah

The third pillar of Iman is belief in the Books of Allah. Muslims believe that Allah sent down divine scriptures to guide humanity. These books contain revelations that are meant to provide moral, legal, and spiritual guidance. The Quran is the final and complete revelation, but belief in the previous scriptures is also essential.

The Divine Scriptures:

• The Torah (Tawrat): Revealed to the Prophet Musa (Moses).

• The Psalms (Zabur): Revealed to the Prophet Dawud (David).

• The Gospel (Injil): Revealed to the Prophet Isa (Jesus).

• The Quran: Revealed to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him). It is the final and unaltered word of Allah, superseding previous scriptures.

Key Lessons:

• Respect for All Revelations: Muslims believe in all previous books as originally revealed by Allah, even though they may have been altered over time. This instills respect for the broader tradition of divine guidance.

• Adherence to the Quran: The Quran is the final and most complete book, providing comprehensive guidance for all aspects of life. Muslims are required to follow its teachings as the ultimate source of knowledge and morality.

• Universal Guidance: The fact that Allah revealed multiple scriptures over time highlights the universality of His guidance for all people, across different cultures and periods.

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1. Belief in the Prophets (Rusul): Muslims believe in all the prophets sent by God, from Adam to Muhammad (peace be upon them all). These prophets were chosen to guide humanity toward the worship of one God and righteous living. Muhammad is considered the final prophet, sealing the message of Islam with the Qur’an as the last revelation.

2. Belief in the Day of Judgment (Yawm al-Qiyamah): This pillar affirms that life on earth is temporary and that a final day will come when all individuals will be resurrected and judged by God. Each person will be held accountable for their deeds, and their eternal fate—either paradise or hell—will be determined accordingly.

3. Belief in Divine Decree (Al-Qadar): This pillar emphasizes the belief that everything happens by God's will and knowledge. Muslims believe in both predestination and human free will, recognizing that while individuals have the ability to choose their actions, ultimately, God’s knowledge encompasses everything, and His wisdom guides the course of the universe.

These pillars of Iman reinforce a Muslim's relationship with God, stressing trust in divine wisdom, responsibility for one's actions, and belief in the unseen truths of life and the afterlife.

Relation to Eschatology:

Ihsan is closely tied to eschatological beliefs (concern with the afterlife and final events) in Islam. The awareness of divine presence and accountability fosters a sense of personal responsibility for one's actions in this world, knowing they will be judged in the Hereafter. This encourages Muslims to live ethically, avoid sin, and perform good deeds in preparation for the Day of Judgment. Eschatology, with its emphasis on resurrection, judgment, paradise, and hell, gives a profound purpose to Ihsan, as it reminds believers that their striving for excellence in this life will ultimately determine their eternal fate.

In essence, Ihsan transforms faith into a constant pursuit of moral and spiritual perfection, directly linked to the belief in life after death and the accountability each soul faces before God.

Adab Towards Parents

In Islam, parents hold an esteemed position, and children are required to treat them with utmost respect and kindness. Adab towards parents includes:

1. Obedience: Listening to their advice and following their instructions, except in matters contrary to religious principles.

2. Respect: Speaking to them gently and courteously, never raising one's voice or using harsh words.

3. Care and Service: Offering physical and emotional support, especially in their old age, as a way of honoring their sacrifices.

4. Gratitude: Showing continuous appreciation for their efforts in raising you and making dua (prayers) for their well-being.

Adab as a Student

As a student, maintaining adab with teachers and the learning process is essential for academic and spiritual growth. This includes:

1. Humility: Approaching knowledge with the understanding that learning is a lifelong process, never being arrogant about what one knows.

2. Respect for Teachers: Being attentive in class, following instructions, and showing appreciation for their efforts.

3. Diligence: Striving to work hard, complete assignments on time, and actively seek knowledge.

4. Etiquette of Learning: Seeking knowledge with pure intentions, for the sake of bettering oneself and benefiting others.

Adab Towards Neighbours

Neighbours, whether Muslim or non-Muslim, are accorded rights and responsibilities in Islam. Proper adab towards neighbours includes:

1. Kindness and Generosity: Offering help when needed, sharing food, and being a source of comfort in times of distress.

2. Avoiding Harm: Ensuring that one's actions, such as making noise or parking, do not cause inconvenience to neighbours.

3. Respecting Privacy: Not prying into their private matters or engaging in gossip about them.

4. Community Engagement: Being involved in community activities and fostering a spirit of cooperation and goodwill.

Adopting these etiquettes promotes harmony and aligns with the moral teachings of Islam.

Islam places great emphasis on the care and preservation of the environment, viewing nature as a sign of Allah’s creation and blessing. The Qur’an and Hadith encourage believers to reflect on the natural world and to act as stewards of the Earth. Key principles include:

1. Tawhid (Oneness of God): The belief in the unity of Allah translates into recognizing that all of creation is interconnected. Human beings have a responsibility to maintain this balance, as everything belongs to Allah.

2. Ayat (Signs of Allah): The environment is considered a reflection of God’s majesty. Appreciating nature through contemplation fosters spiritual awareness and humility.

3. Khilafah (Stewardship): Humans are seen as custodians of the Earth, entrusted with the duty to protect and care for it, ensuring its resources are used responsibly.

4. Avoiding Waste: Islam promotes moderation and warns against extravagance. The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said, “Do not waste water, even if performing ablution at a running stream” (Ibn Majah). This teaches believers to avoid wastage of all resources.

Sustainability in Islam

Sustainability is deeply rooted in Islamic teachings, advocating for mindful interaction with the Earth and its resources. This involves:

1. Conservation of Resources: Islam encourages efficient and responsible use of resources, such as water, food, and energy, and advocates against overconsumption.

2. Planting Trees and Agriculture: The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged planting trees and caring for plants, as these acts are seen as ongoing charity (sadaqah jariyah). He said, “If a Muslim plants a tree or sows seeds, and a bird, person, or animal eats from it, it is regarded as a charitable gift for him” (Bukhari).

3. Animal Welfare: Islam teaches kindness towards animals and prohibits their abuse. Animals are also part of the balance of creation and should be treated with care.

4. Minimizing Environmental Harm: The avoidance of pollution and harmful practices that degrade the environment aligns with the Islamic principle of not causing harm (darar).

Conclusion

Islamic teachings on the environment promote a harmonious relationship with nature, emphasizing that humans are guardians of the Earth. Sustainability, as a moral obligation, calls for mindful, responsible use of resources and care for all of creation. This approach fosters a healthy environment for current and future generations.