Three of America’s biggest cultural icons passed away in a single week — a reality check that stunned millions and brought the subject of death into sharp focus. In Islam, death is not a reason for despair or paralysis. It is a motivation. The Quran declares that every soul shall taste death, and the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) taught that the wise person is the one who holds himself accountable and works for what comes after death.
Death as a Motivation, Not an Obstacle
Michael Jackson was reportedly in the best shape of his life, rehearsing and preparing for a comeback tour, dancing like the Michael of old — and then he was gone at 50. This illustrates a powerful Islamic principle: human beings plan for a long life, but Allah’s appointment is closer than we think. Rather than leading to hopelessness, this reality should drive us to make the most of every moment. The prohibitions in Islam — against alcohol, fornication, and other harmful acts — are not obstacles but challenges to overcome, with permissible and pleasurable alternatives always available.
“Every soul shall taste death.” — Quran 3:185
Getting Marriage Right: The Islamic Way
- No dating culture — Islam provides clear guidelines for interaction between men and women, channeling natural desires toward the permissible institution of marriage
- Being ready — A man should be financially prepared, with stable income and accommodation, before proposing; readiness means the ability to sustain a marriage, not just initiate one
- The proper approach — Use a trusted intermediary, approach the woman’s family respectfully, or if necessary, speak directly with genuine intention for marriage — not casual interest
- Arranged does not mean forced — Family involvement is valued, but forced marriage is prohibited in Islam and invalidates the marriage contract; both parties must consent freely
Attributes of the Creator We Worship
“We do not worship a moon god, a man, or any part of creation. Allah is One, in the seventh heaven, and we set no partners with Him.”
A common misconception about Muslims is that the crescent symbol means we worship the moon. In reality, the crescent is simply a marker of the lunar calendar used for calculating Islamic months — nothing more. Allah is One, above His creation, with no partners and no equals. Islam came to abolish the worship of idols and created beings, directing all devotion to the Creator alone. Marriage in Islam reflects this same principle of order: a system designed by the Creator, proven to work, with both fixed guidelines and cultural flexibility to serve every time and place.
