Page 112 - Self-Sacrifice in the Qur'an's Moral Teachings

Self-Sacrifice in the Qur'an's Moral Teachings

Say: "Flight will not benefit you if you try to run away from
death or being killed. Then you will only enjoy a short respite."
Say: "Who is going to shield you from Allah if He desires evil for
you or desires mercy for you?" They will find no one to protect or
help them besides Allah. Allah knows the obstructers among
you and those who say to their brothers, "Come to us," and who
only come to fight a very little and are begrudging toward you.
Then when fear comes, you see them looking at you, their eyes
rolling like people scared to death. But when fear departs, they
flay you with sharp tongues, grasping for wealth. Such people
have no belief, and Allah will make their actions come to noth-
ing. That is easy for Allah. (Surat al-Ahzab: 16-19)

Allah says that these people are begrudging and selfish toward
believers, that they will not put themselves out, and that when they are
afraid they look as if they are scared to death. Furthermore, He says
that they have no belief.
Unaware of Allah's infinite power, their fear causes them to deny
their resources to solve other people's problems. While they might
offer some support, they do not have the courage to sacrifice their in-
terests. For example, the people of many countries could be brought up
to work together and to sacrifice for each other in order to help solve
problems. In the same way, people act unjustly, oppress others, and
cause environments of confusion and terror because they have no fear
or respect of Allah. If they were told about the proofs of His existence,
the truths of belief, the existence of the Hereafter and the Day of
Judgment, many would start following their conscience, a develop-
ment that would ensure peace and contentment in society. Of course,
radio, television, and the press play a major role in getting this message
across to the masses.

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