Success in life, both spiritually and materially, is a universal aspiration deeply embedded in the quest for a fulfilling and meaningful life. Sheikh Sajid Umar, in his enlightening talk, highlights three foundational principles that underpin true success: Ihsan (excellence), Istiqamah (steadfastness), and Ikhlas (sincerity). These principles form a comprehensive framework guiding Muslims in their spiritual, moral, and social development. By understanding and internalising these concepts, Muslims can achieve a balanced and harmonious life, fulfilling their roles as responsible individuals in society and devout servants of Allah.
In the Qur’an, Allah SWT designates Muslims as the "best nation" with a profound responsibility and purpose. The verse Ali ‘Imran 3:110 states:
كُنتُمْ خَيْرَ أُمَّةٍ أُخْرِجَتْ لِلنَّاسِ تَأْمُرُونَ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ وَتَنْهَوْنَ عَنِ الْمُنكَرِ وَتُؤْمِنُونَ بِاللَّهِ ۗ وَلَوْ آمَنَ أَهْلُ الْكِتَابِ لَكَانَ خَيْرًا لَّهُم ۚ مِّنْهُمُ الْمُؤْمِنُونَ وَأَكْثَرُهُمُ الْفَاسِقُونَ
Muslims are called upon to promote righteousness, justice, compassion, and fairness, actively working to eradicate societal ills and uphold principles that promote harmony. By standing firm against corruption, oppression, and immorality, Muslims uphold the principles that promote harmony and well-being in society. Belief in Allah serves as the foundation that motivates and guides these actions, ensuring they are sincere and aligned with divine teachings.
You are the best nation produced [as an example] for mankind. You enjoin what is right and forbid what is wrong and believe in Allah. If only the People of the Scripture had believed, it would have been better for them. Among them are believers, but most of them are defiantly disobedient [Ali ‘Imran 3:110]
The verse outlines three fundamental responsibilities that contribute to this designation: enjoining what is right (al-ma'ruf), forbidding what is wrong (al-munkar), and maintaining strong faith in Allah. Muslims are tasked with embodying qualities that elevate society morally, spiritually, and ethically.
Building Jannah: A Paradise-Life for Success
Taking the amanah (trust) of being the best nation requires Muslims to engage constructively with the wider community, fostering understanding, tolerance, and mutual respect. This entails embodying the highest ethical standards in personal conduct, business practices, and governance. By consistently striving for excellence, Muslims can fulfil their role as a beacon of guidance, creating a society where righteousness flourishes, benefiting all.
In essence, the concept of Shariah aims to generate and bring forth benefits in abundance, while also addressing and mitigating harms and their implications. It reflects the proactive approach of Shariah in promoting welfare and minimising detrimental effects, which served the amanah bestowed upon the Ummah of Muhammad SAW, the Best Nation.
To bring about benefits and many benefits, and to prevent harms and their implications."This is the an-nubuwwah legacy that has been carried out from our Prophet Muhammad SAW which was inherited from the prophets earlier, to the Companions and up till today, to us. Hence, it is our responsibility to exercise the paradise-centric life in ensuring that we are the Best Nation as defined in the Qur’an.
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The concept of living a paradise-centric life guided by three keys associated with the legacy of our beloved Prophet Muhammad SAW. Sheikh Sajid emphasises a profound commitment to Islam, where every decision and action is aligned with achieving a paradisiacal existence by applying the 3Is: Ikhlas, Ihsan and Istiqamah.
The approach encourages daily mindfulness ensuring that all endeavours and choices contribute positively towards life.
Embracing Ikhlas, Ihsan, and Istiqamah: A Path to Success in the New Year
As we approach the new year, marked by the sacred month of Muharram, it is an opportune time to reflect on and realign our lives with the principles of Ikhlas, Ihsan, and Istiqamah. These three foundational concepts in Islam—sincerity, excellence, and steadfastness—offer a comprehensive framework for personal and spiritual growth. Ikhlas, the foundation of sincere intention, calls us to devote every action, thought, and aspect of our lives to Allah alone. By internalising this principle, we transform mundane activities into acts of worship, infusing our daily routines with a sense of divine purpose. As the new year begins, let us renew our commitment to live each day with a heart solely dedicated to pleasing Allah, recognizing that true success starts with pure intentions. Ihsan, the pursuit of excellence, urges us to perform every deed with the highest standard of quality. Whether in our studies, work, or interpersonal relationships, striving for excellence reflects our devotion to Allah, who deserves nothing but the best. As we step into Muharram, a time of spiritual renewal, let us resolve to bring our best selves to every endeavour, ensuring that our actions embody the highest level of integrity and dedication. Istiqamah, the essence of steadfastness, challenges us to maintain consistency in our faith and actions despite the ups and downs of life. This unwavering commitment to Ikhlas and Ihsan requires daily effort and resilience. The new year presents an ideal moment to cultivate this steadfastness, understanding that the journey to spiritual fulfilment is a continuous process. By embracing Istiqamah, we equip ourselves to navigate the trials and triumphs of life with unwavering faith and determination. As we embark on this new year, let us integrate Ikhlas, Ihsan, and Istiqamah into our lives, transforming every moment into an opportunity for spiritual elevation. By doing so, we not only seek to build our place in Jannah but also contribute positively to the world around us. May Allah grant us the strength to live with sincerity, excellence, and steadfastness, making this year a turning point in our journey towards eternal success.My personal notes-taking from [source:] Ihsan, Istiqamah, Ikhlas | The Three I's of Success | Sheikh Sajid Umar
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