Are you afraid of the unseen? Of something that you cannot see or have no control over? As humans, we are always worried and anxious. Worrying about our unknown future or getting scared of things that we cannot see with our naked eyes.
The unseen world is something that can be difficult for our limited human minds to grasp, yet as Muslims, we believe in it without hesitation. We know that beyond what our eyes can perceive, there exists an entire realm that includes Allah (s.w.t.), the angles, the soul, and even dreams that hold meanings beyond our understanding.
We had the honour of attending the enlightening event with Shaykh Belal Assaad, where he delved into the unseen aspects of our faith. Concepts that exist beyond human perception yet hold profound significance in our lives. From worrying about the unknown to understanding the role of angels, his talk served as a powerful reminder to place our trust in Allah (s.w.t.) and focus on what truly matters.
The Fear of the Unseen and the Unknown
One of the biggest struggles we face as humans is the fear of the unknown. We worry about the future, our fate, and the unseen realities that we cannot control. But Shaykh Belal Assaad reminded us that rather than allowing these fears to consume us, we should shift our perspective:
- Allah (s.w.t.) is testing me because He (s.w.t.) has a plan for me.
Every hardship is a means of growth and a part of the divine wisdom that we may not understand at the moment.
- This test is a preparation for the Hereafter.
Just as a student must go through exams before graduation, we must endure difficulties to strengthen our souls and earn eternal rewards.
- Something good will come out of my suffering.
The darkest nights often lead to the brightest dawns. Every struggle has a hidden mercy behind it.
- Maybe this is a moment for me to reflect on my life choices.
Sometimes hardships come as wake-up calls. They force us to re-evaluate our lives, return to Allah (s.w.t.), and seek His guidance.
No one knows how their story will end, so why waste our time and energy fearing something that is beyond our control? Instead, we should focus on what we can control. Our actions, choices, and efforts. Remember that Allah (s.w.t.) does not judge us based on the outcome but rather on the sincerity of our intentions and actions.
The End of the World—Should We Fear It?
Another topic that struck a chord with many attendees was the concept of the world ending. It is natural to feel uneasy about the unknown, but should we live in paranoia, constantly fearing the signs of the Last Day?
Shaykh Belal Assaad reminded us that our focus should not be on when the world will end but rather on how we are preparing for it. Allah (s.w.t.) does not judge us based on outcomes but on our efforts.
Anas ibn Malik reported that the Prophet (s.a.w.) said, “If the Final Hour comes while you have a shoot of a plant in your hands and it is possible to plant it before the Hour comes, you should plant it.”
(Sahih Al-Abani)
This hadith teaches us that even if we know the end is near, we should continue doing good. Whether the world ends tomorrow or in a thousand years, our duty remains the same—to worship Allah (s.w.t.) sincerely, seek forgiveness, and do our best every day.
Angels: The Unseen Servants of Allah (s.w.t.)
Another fascinating part of Belal Assaad’s talk was about angels, one of the many unseen creations of Allah (s.w.t.). While we acknowledge their existence, there is so much about them that remains beyond our understanding. Here are some incredible insights he shared:
- Angels are made of light and never disobey Allah (s.w.t.). Unlike humans, they have no free will and exist solely to fulfil Allah’s (s.w.t.) commands.
- Each angel has a designated task, from guarding the skies to recording our deeds. Angels are constantly at work in ways we cannot see.
- There are angels specifically assigned to seekers of knowledge. Every time we attend a gathering of knowledge, angels surround us, praying for us and recording our good deeds.
- Angels love those who do good. When we engage in acts of worship, charity, and kindness, the angels recognise and love us for it.
- Sometimes, by Allah’s (s.w.t.) will, angels have appeared in human form, though we are usually unaware of their presence. There are many accounts from Islamic history where angels appeared in human form, yet people were unaware of their true nature.
Though we cannot see them, their presence is constant. When we pray, they stand beside us. When we seek knowledge, they lower their wings in honour of our pursuit. When we make du’a’, they carry it up to the heavens. Their existence should remind us that we are never alone. Allah (s.w.t.) has placed His divine helpers around us, even when we feel isolated.
Finding Peace in the Unseen
The overall message of Shaykh Belal Assaad’s talk was clear: Do not let the unseen be a source of fear, but rather a source of faith. The unseen is not meant to make us anxious. It is meant to strengthen our connection with Allah (s.w.t.).
Yes, we do not know our future, but we know that Allah (s.w.t.) is Al-Wakeel—the One who takes complete responsibility for all affairs. Yes, we do not see the angels, but we know that they are with us, supporting us in ways beyond our comprehension. Yes, we do not always understand why things happen the way they do, but we trust Allah’s (s.w.t.) wisdom is infinite.
Instead of fearing what is beyond our control, we should focus on what we can do:
- Strengthen our connection with Allah (s.w.t.) through prayer and du’a’.
- Make conscious efforts to do good, knowing the angels are recording our deeds.
- Replace our worries with reliance on Allah’s (s.w.t.) mercy and plan.
- Seek knowledge about our faith and deepen our understanding of the unseen.
Trusting in Allah’s (s.w.t.) Plan
One of the biggest takeaways from the event was the importance of trusting Allah (s.w.t.), even when we don’t have all the answers. The unseen is not meant to scare us but rather to strengthen our faith. Instead of worrying about the world ending, we should focus on preparing ourselves spiritually, making the most of our time in this dunya, and striving to do good.
Belal Assaad’s talk was a powerful reminder that faith is not about knowing everything. It’s about trusting Allah (s.w.t.) despite the unknown. May we continue to strengthen our connection with Him and find peace in His divine wisdom.
May we all find peace in this understanding and strive to strengthen our faith, knowing that beyond what our eyes can perceive, Allah’s (s.w.t.) wisdom, mercy, and guidance are always with us.
That is all that we can conclude from Shaykh Belal Assaad’s recent event. See you in our next post!
