🏵️🏵️🏵️
Your article, James, discusses "Mindful Rulebreaking" for an easier life, which can be related to Islamic teachings and principles. Islam encourages critical thinking, informed decision-making, and wise actions while acknowledging the existence of divine laws, agency, and consequences.
Universal Laws of Rules, Agency, and Consequence: In Islam, the concept of Allah's divine laws (Shariah) governs every aspect of life.
These laws are considered universal and apply to everyone, regardless of their background or circumstances. Muslims also believe in the concept of accountability, where every action has a consequence, either in this life or the hereafter. This aligns with the First Law: The Law of Rules, the Second Law: The Law of Consequences, and the Third Law: The Law of Agency.
Quran 17:15 - "And it is He who spread out the earth and placed therein firm mountains and rivers; and of all things, He has created two mates, [that] He may provide for you continuously."
Quran 6:164 - "And it is He who made the sun for you, and when it retreats, it brings forth the lightning, [causing] your vision to reach it and you can see the mountains in clear light."
Hard and Soft Rules: In Islam, there are clear-cut hard rules (Haram) and more flexible soft rules (Makruh or Mustahab). Hard rules are those that are strictly forbidden by Allah, such as committing adultery, stealing, or consuming alcohol. Soft rules, on the other hand, are those that are not explicitly forbidden but are encouraged to be followed for spiritual growth and betterment. This corresponds to the concept of Hard and Soft Rules in the article.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Every one of my nation will be given (the chance to intercede) for those of his family, and then (his intercession will be accepted) for the members of his tribe, and then (for the inhabitants) of his town, and then (for) the most esteemed person will be the most virtuous among you." (Sahih Muslim)
Knowing Your Why: Islam emphasizes the importance of having a strong intention (Niyah) behind one's actions. Before undertaking any task, Muslims are encouraged to reflect on their motives and ensure they are acting for the pleasure of Allah. This aligns with the concept of "knowing your why" in the article.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Actions are according to intentions, and everyone will get what was predestined." (Sahih Bukhari)
Counting the Cost: In Islamic decision-making, one must also consider the potential consequences of their actions. Muslims are advised to think about the short-term and long-term effects of their choices, especially if it involves breaking a rule. This is in line with the concept of "counting the cost" mentioned in the article.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Whoever among you sees an evil action, let him change it with his hand; if he cannot, then with his tongue; and if he cannot, then with his heart - and that is the weakest of faith." (Sahih Muslim)
Commitment to Your Path: Once a decision is made in Islam, it is crucial to remain committed to it. Muslims believe in the concept of "Patience in Decision" (Sabr al-Qarar), which means to accept and persevere through the outcomes of one's decisions, whether they are positive or negative.
Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, "Whoever seeks a decision through my tradition (Sunnah) and does not find it, let him act according to what is in the Quran." (Sahih Muslim)
In conclusion, while the concept of "Mindful Rulebreaking" may not directly align with Islamic teachings, there are several parallels that can be drawn. Both systems encourage individuals to think critically, make informed decisions, and act with wisdom while being aware of the laws, consequences, and intentions behind their actions.
🏵️🏵️🏵️