[04022025] Humbling Remarks

Alamak, saya ini hanya insan kecil, ilmu sekelumit, kemahiran secubit. Jauh sekali hendak dibandingkan dengan mereka yang lebih berpengalaman dan berilmu. Saya hanya berjalan di atas jejak orang-orang hebat sebelum saya, menumpang cahaya daripada kebijaksanaan mereka.

Apa yang saya tahu, hanyalah setitis daripada lautan ilmu yang luas. Apa yang saya mampu, hanyalah secuit daripada kebolehan yang ada di sekeliling saya. Namun, saya percaya bahawa setiap langkah kecil, setiap usaha yang sedikit, tetap membawa makna jika dilakukan dengan niat yang ikhlas dan hati yang tulus.

Saya di sini bukan untuk mengajar, tetapi untuk belajar. Bukan untuk menonjol, tetapi untuk menyumbang. Kalau ada khilaf dalam kata-kata saya, mohon ditegur. Kalau ada kekurangan dalam usaha saya, mohon dibantu. Saya hanya ingin berbuat sebaik yang mampu, dengan seikhlas hati, demi manfaat bersama.

Moga kita semua terus diberikan taufik dan hidayah, agar dapat menjadi insan yang lebih baik, hari ini lebih baik daripada semalam, dan esok lebih baik daripada hari ini. Terima kasih atas ruang dan peluang ini, dan maaf atas segala kekurangan saya.

[30012025] The Power of Questioning in Islam!

Different Types of Questioning in Islam

1. Seeking Knowledge and Understanding

Purpose: To gain knowledge or deepen understanding.

Example:

Qur'an: "Who created the heavens and the earth?" (Qur’an 21:56) – A question to reflect on Allah’s greatness.

Hadith: Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) asked, "Do you know what is the right of Allah over His servants?" (Sahih Muslim).

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2. Testing the Teacher

Purpose: To check the teacher’s knowledge.

Example:

Qur'an: The angel Jibril (Gabriel) asked Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) questions to confirm the message.

Hadith: The companions asked the Prophet (PBUH) questions about the Day of Judgment to understand better.

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3. Helping Fellow Students

Purpose: To clarify or explain for others' understanding.

Example:

Qur'an: "What did your Lord say?" (Qur’an 2:61) – Prophet Musa (Moses) asking for clarification to bring the people together.

Hadith: Abu Hurairah (RA) asked the Prophet (PBUH) to clarify the rules of fasting. (Sahih Muslim).

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4. Expressing Uncertainty or Humility

Purpose: To show lack of understanding or seek clarity.

Example:

Qur'an: "How can you disbelieve in Allah, when you were lifeless and He gave you life?" (Qur’an 2:28) – A question to emphasize Allah’s power.

Hadith: The Prophet (PBUH) would sometimes ask companions simple questions to highlight misunderstandings, such as "Why are you sitting?" (Sahih Bukhari).

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5. Rhetorical Question

Purpose: To emphasize a point, no answer needed.

Example:

Qur'an: "Is there any doubt about the kingdom of Allah?" (Qur’an 3:189) – To highlight Allah’s dominion.

Hadith: "What would you say if I told you the world is a fleeting moment?" – A rhetorical question to reflect on life’s brevity.

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6. Clarifying a Point

Purpose: To ask for further explanation.

Example:

Qur'an: "And what will make you know what is the Day of Judgment?" (Qur’an 75:3) – Asking to clarify the seriousness of the Day of Judgment.

Hadith: "What do you say about a person who prays but does not give zakat?" – To clarify the importance of zakat.

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7. Socratic Questioning

Purpose: To help someone discover the answer by asking guiding questions.

Example:

Qur'an: "Do they not reflect upon the Qur’an?" (Qur’an 47:24) – To encourage reflection on the Qur'an.

Hadith: "Do you want to be like me, who prays at night?" – To encourage understanding of the importance of night prayer.

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8. Open-ended Question

Purpose: To encourage discussion or deeper thought.

Example:

Qur'an: "Who will give Allah a good loan that He will multiply for him?" (Qur’an 57:11) – Encouraging people to think about charity.

Hadith: "What is the best action?" – Allowing multiple responses to encourage reflection.

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9. Closed-ended Question

Purpose: To seek a specific or brief answer.

Example:

Qur'an: "Do you not know that to Allah belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth?" (Qur’an 3:189) – Seeking affirmation.

Hadith: "Do you believe that there is no god but Allah?" – Yes/no question to affirm belief.

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10. Leading Question

Purpose: To guide the answer in a specific direction.

Example:

Qur'an: "Is there any reward for good other than good?" (Qur’an 55:60) – To show the reward for good deeds.

Hadith: "Would you agree fasting is a shield?" – To highlight the benefits of fasting.

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11. Hypothetical Question

Purpose: To explore a possible scenario.

Example:

Qur'an: "If We had sent this Qur’an down on a mountain, you would have seen it humbled." (Qur’an 59:21) – To show the power of the Qur'an.

Hadith: "What if someone fasted without eating but avoided evil thoughts?" – Hypothetical to discuss the essence of fasting.

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12. Reflective Question

Purpose: To make the listener reflect on their actions or situation.

Example:

Qur'an: "If you are grateful, I will increase your favor upon you." (Qur’an 14:7) – To reflect on gratitude.

Hadith: "How many of us act upon what we hear?" (Sunan Ibn Majah) – To encourage self-reflection.

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13. Disputational Question

Purpose: To challenge someone’s belief or claim.

Example:

Qur'an: "Who is better than the one who calls to Allah?" (Qur’an 41:33) – To challenge deniers of Islam.

Hadith: "Do you not see that when you fast, the angels pray for you?" (Sahih Bukhari) – To challenge those who neglect the significance of fasting.

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14. Socratic-like Teaching Question

Purpose: To lead to self-discovery.

Example:

Qur'an: "Have you seen the one who denies the Recompense?" (Qur’an 75:36) – To provoke reflection on the Day of Judgment.

Hadith: "What would you do if asked to give everything for the sake of Allah?" (Sahih Muslim) – To reflect on devotion.

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Conclusion

In Islam, questioning is not just about finding answers but also about reflection, teaching, and engaging with deeper truths. These different types of questions in the Qur’an and Hadith invite us to think, learn, and grow in faith.

[27012025] The Power of "No": How Rejection Shapes Us into the Better Versions of Ourselves

Rejection is never easy to handle. It stings, bruises our confidence, and sometimes makes us question our worth. But what if we looked at every "no" as a stepping stone rather than a stumbling block? What if the very thing we dread—being told "no"—is the catalyst that helps us grow into the best version of ourselves?

"No" is a Teacher

When someone says "no," it forces us to pause and reflect. Was there something I could have done differently? Was this opportunity truly aligned with my goals? Rejections are life’s way of nudging us toward growth, providing lessons that success often cannot teach. For instance, a failed job application might prompt us to refine our skills or pursue a career path better suited to our passions.

Each "no" pushes us to look inward and identify areas for improvement. It teaches us humility, patience, and persistence—qualities that are essential for long-term success.

Resilience Through Rejection

Hearing "no" repeatedly can feel disheartening, but it’s also a powerful builder of resilience. Think about the stories of successful individuals who faced countless rejections before achieving greatness. J.K. Rowling's manuscript for Harry Potter was rejected by 12 publishers. Walt Disney was told he lacked creativity. What set these individuals apart was their ability to use rejection as fuel to keep going.

When we embrace the "no," we develop a thick skin and a determination that allows us to weather life’s challenges with grace. It reminds us that failure is not final; it’s merely a stepping stone on the path to success.

A "No" Often Leads to a Better "Yes"

Sometimes, rejection is life’s way of redirecting us toward something better. A "no" might close one door, but it often opens another. That relationship that didn’t work out, the promotion you didn’t get, or the project that was turned down might lead to opportunities you never imagined.

Looking back, many of us can pinpoint moments where rejection turned out to be a blessing in disguise. Perhaps it led us to meet the right people, discover a hidden talent, or take a risk we wouldn’t have otherwise considered.

Reframing Rejection

The key to transforming "no" into a positive force is perspective. Instead of viewing rejection as a personal failure, see it as a natural part of life. Every "no" brings you closer to a "yes" because it refines your character, sharpens your skills, and clarifies your purpose.

Here are a few ways to reframe rejection:

Focus on the lesson: Ask yourself, "What can I learn from this experience?"

Stay proactive: Don’t dwell on the "no." Use it as motivation to try again or pivot to a new direction.

Celebrate effort: Even if you didn’t get the outcome you wanted, acknowledge the courage it took to put yourself out there.

Conclusion: Becoming Better Through the "Nos"

Life’s "nos" are not roadblocks—they are detours that lead us to growth, resilience, and success. Every time you face rejection, remind yourself that it’s an opportunity to learn and improve. Over time, you’ll notice that the "nos" don’t break you; they build you.

So the next time you hear "no," don’t be discouraged. Embrace it, learn from it, and keep moving forward. The best version of you is waiting on the other side of persistence.

[04012025] Authority vs. Influence: The True Power of Leadership

When we think of leadership, authority often comes to mind—titles, roles, and the power to make decisions. But is authority alone enough to inspire and lead? True leadership isn’t just about authority; it’s about influence. And while authority is granted, influence is earned.

Authority: The Power of Position

Authority comes from a title, position, or rank. It’s the ability to direct others, make decisions, and enforce rules. Think of a manager who controls budgets or a teacher who sets classroom expectations. Authority creates a clear structure, offering clarity about who is in charge.

But here’s the catch: authority alone doesn’t guarantee loyalty, respect, or engagement. A boss might have the authority to assign tasks, but if they don’t connect with their team, those tasks are likely to be met with minimal effort or even resistance.

Influence: The Power of Connection

Influence, on the other hand, is about connection and trust. It’s the ability to inspire, motivate, and guide others, regardless of your title. While authority commands compliance, influence earns commitment.

Consider the colleague who leads by example, offering support and ideas that lift the whole team. They might not have a formal title, but their influence makes them a natural leader. People follow them not because they have to, but because they want to.

Key Differences Between Authority and Influence

1. Source: Authority is granted by a role or organization; influence is built through relationships and credibility.

2. Effectiveness: Authority can enforce actions, but influence drives genuine change and motivation.

3. Longevity: Authority ends when the title is gone. Influence, however, lasts because it’s rooted in trust and respect.

How to Build Influence (Even Without Authority)

Lead Yourself First: Be disciplined, emotionally intelligent, and accountable. Others are drawn to those who demonstrate self-leadership.

Serve Others: Influence grows when you prioritize the needs of others and show genuine care.

Communicate Effectively: Listen actively and speak clearly. People trust leaders who understand them.

Earn Trust: Keep your word, be reliable, and act with integrity. Trust is the foundation of influence.

Demonstrate Expertise: Share your knowledge and skills generously. People respect those who contribute meaningfully.

Why Influence Matters More

While authority may get the job done in the short term, influence creates long-lasting impact. A team motivated by influence works harder, stays more committed, and feels valued. Authority might make you a boss, but influence makes you a leader.

The Sweet Spot: Authority and Influence

The best leaders combine both. They use their authority responsibly, creating structures and accountability, while building influence to inspire and engage. When authority and influence align, leadership reaches its full potential.

In the end, while authority can be given, influence must be earned. And the leaders who understand the difference are the ones who truly make a difference.

[01012025] I am 50