The Prophet (PBUH) in his wisdom took our attention to ourselves and immediately we are reminded to reflect on our actions. We are reminded to look inward and protect others as a way of protecting ourselves. Guard your tongue, your actions, and be present. The deeper lesson here is one of Taqwa. Being mindful of your impact and knowing the rights of others upon you.

The majority of us have little idea of what Riba or usury is. The unanimous view of Muslims throughout history is that any excess charge in a contract of loan is riba. Islam has always discouraged living beyond one's means, because it can lead to excessive borrowing. In a perfect world, financial systems would be based on values such as honesty, credibility and transparency rather than greed and excess.

Seek refuge in Allah be vigilant and mindful of your thoughts and actions. Remember a crucial point, shaytan works in steps. He will seldom just whisper for you to leave your religion. In the end, you are responsible for your own actions.

O you who believe! Enter into submission, wholeheartedly, and do not follow the footsteps of Satan; he is to you an outright enemy
(Quran 2:208)  English -  Arabic -

In his sermon, the Messenger said, “All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over black nor does a black have any superiority over a white except by piety and good action.”

With the growth of the Black Lives Matter movement, the powerful advice of the Prophet (PBUH) is extremely important to heed. We are reminded of our origins and redirected to what truly matters: someone who has a heart that is attached to Allah in word and deed. This is what is truly important.

This advice is extremely pertinent in our times, when the disrespect and subjugation of women is far too common. The Prophet (PBUH) advised us to be guided by kindness and honour in the treatment and status of women. It is a reminder to both men and women of the status and rights of women in Islam, and society’s duty to uphold this standard.