Earlier this August, thousands gathered to attend Dr. Omar Suleiman Live in Malaysia, a 2-day journey of reflection, wisdom, and renewed faith. With each session, Dr. Omar reminded us of timeless lessons hidden in the Qur’an, urging us to see beyond our struggles and the illusions of this world.
The Mercy You Didn’t See – Musa (a.s.) & Khidr’s Journey
The first session reminded us that not everything perceived as “bad” truly is bad. Just like the story of Prophet Musa (a.s.) and Khidr. Allah’s (s.w.t.) wisdom extends far beyond what our eyes can comprehend.
Here are some main takeaways Dr. Omar Suleiman shared with us on this day:
- We often become attached to illusions, just like how Dajjal will deceive with false miracles. Only faith can anchor us against such tests.
- Surah Al-Kahf and Surah Maryam show us Allah’s (s.w.t.) mercy and wisdom, whether in the lives of prophets or ordinary people.
- Even prophets needed companions. Musa (a.s.) had Yusha (a.s.), reminding us that we, too, need faith-filled company.
Everything with Allah (s.w.t.) is good. Even in uncertainty, His mercy is hidden, waiting to be unveiled.
The Darkness That Teaches – The Downfall of Tyrants
The second session was heavier, yet deeply profound. Dr. Omar Suleiman explored the nature of tyranny through the stories of Fir’awn, Qarun, and Haman, and what their downfalls teach us today.
What is tyranny?
In Islam, tyranny is not just violence. It is the oppression, cruelty and injustice whether against ourselves or others.
Why does Allah (s.w.t.) allow tyrants?
Tyrants exist as a test. Their arrogance, denial of accountability, and disregard for people’s values expose the very traits we must avoid in ourselves. As Dr. Omar reminded us:
- Fir’awn embodied pride and insecurity, seeing people as disposable.
- Qarun forgot that his blessings came from Allah (s.w.t.), boasting about what he achieved.
- Haman exemplified blind loyalty to power.
But even in their cruelty, Allah’s (s.w.t.) justice never fails. The du’a’ of the oppressed will always reach Him. Out of mercy for the victims, Allah (s.w.t.) delivers justice, even if delayed.
What about us?
Dr. Omar warned us that tyranny isn’t just “out there”. It begins when we wrong ourselves—neglecting prayers, rejecting accountability, and forgetting gratitude.
He ended up with a striking reflection: tyrants build legacies on earth, but believers build legacies for the akhirah. Which path are we walking?
A Weekend to Remember
From learning patience through Musa (a.s.) to recognising the dangers of pride through Fir’awn, this weekend was more than just a lecture series; it was a mirror. A mirror to see where we stand in our faith, and a call to trust Allah’s (s.w.t.) wisdom, seek His mercy, and stand firm against injustice, no matter how small.
Malaysia walked away with a renewed heart and a reminder that even when life hits hard, Allah’s (s.w.t.) guidance and mercy will never leave us.
