🏵️🏵️🏵️ Dear [Writer]
Religion and Politics at The Dinner Table,
I want to start by appreciating your courage to share your thoughts and fears about the concept of Job in the Bible. Your article is a thought-provoking reflection on the human experience, and I appreciate your openness to exploring the complexities of faith.
As an Islamic perspective, I would like to offer some insights that may help alleviate this fear. In Islam, we believe that God is just and merciful, and that He is the one who tests us to refine our souls and increase our faith. The Quran states, "And indeed, We will test you with something of fear and hunger and a loss of wealth and lives and fruits, but give good tidings to the patient ones" (Quran 2:155). This test is not meant to punish us, but rather to purify our hearts and souls.
In this regard, the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, said, "No misfortune occurs but is written in the Book of Decrees before it becomes a reality" (Bukhari). This means that every event, including the struggles and challenges we face, is part of a larger plan designed by God to help us grow and become better Muslims.
I understand your perspective on Job's story as a cautionary tale about the dangers of human pride and the importance of humility. However, from an Islamic perspective, I believe that Islam provides a more comprehensive understanding of God's nature and purpose. Islam teaches us that God is not a cruel or capricious deity who delights in punishing humans for their mistakes. Rather, He is a merciful and compassionate God who wants to guide us towards righteousness and happiness.
I invite you to explore Islam, as it is the final message from God to humanity. It is a culmination of all the previous revelations given to prophets such as Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and others. Have you ever stopped and asked yourself, "What if, on the Day of Judgment, I realize that I was too lost in life's distractions, my biases against Muslims and Islam, media influence, people's opinions, and responsibilities, and didn't take the time to read or embrace Islam as the final message?
I encourage you to read an online copy of the Quran https://quran.ksu.edu.sa/index.php?l=en#aya=1_1&m=hafs&qaree=husary&trans=en_sh
to see what is the purpose of Life, God's nature, and different perspectives than what we raised upon.
May Allah bless you with wisdom, guidance, and peace.
🏵️🏵️🏵️
Mohamed, Ph.D