Quranic Reflections 1 : And similarly, We caused them to be found
About the Book
(And Thus We Found Them) by Hossam Ash-Sharqawy is a profound work that delves into various aspects of faith, spirituality, and the challenges of maintaining belief and righteousness. The book is structured around a series of reflections and thoughts that are deeply rooted in Islamic teachings and the Quran. Here is a summary of its key themes and contents:
Dedication and Introduction: The book begins with a dedication to various individuals who have influenced the author’s life, including his parents, relatives, and those who have held firm in their faith during difficult times. The introduction emphasizes the importance of seeking guidance and forgiveness from Allah, acknowledging the fallibility of humans, and the pursuit of righteousness.
Quranic Reflections and Personal Insights: The author shares his reflections on Quranic verses and stories, particularly focusing on the story of the Companions of the Cave (Ahl al-Kahf). These reflections are intertwined with personal experiences and insights, underscoring the significance of faith and patience during trials and tribulations.
Spiritual Journey and Challenges: The narrative discusses the spiritual journey of the believer, highlighting the difficulties faced in adhering to one’s faith. It talks about the need for perseverance, guidance, and the importance of enduring hardships for the sake of Allah’s pleasure.
The Story of the People of the Cave: A significant portion of the book is dedicated to the story of the People of the Cave, a group of young men who sought refuge in a cave to escape religious persecution. Their story is used to illustrate themes of faith, divine protection, and the miracle of their extended sleep as mentioned in the Quran.
Divine Decree and Trust in Allah: The book emphasizes the concept of divine decree (Qadar) and the importance of trusting in Allah’s plan. It reflects on how Allah’s plan may seem mysterious but is always in the best interest of the believers. The story of the People of the Cave is used as an example of this, showing how their escape and long sleep were part of a divine plan.
Final Thoughts and Call to Action: The book concludes with a call to action for the readers. It urges them to persevere in their spiritual journey, to trust in Allah, to seek knowledge, and to remain patient and steadfast in the face of adversity. The author emphasizes the importance of being aware of the transient nature of this world and focusing on the eternal life hereafter.
Overall, “وكذلك أعثرنا عليهم” is a deeply reflective and spiritually enriching work that combines Quranic teachings with personal insights to offer guidance and encouragement for maintaining faith and righteousness in challenging times
About the Book
These reflections that are now before you are divine inspirations that Allah bestowed upon me in moments when I was in dire need of them and their blessings. They encompass new meanings and facets that I have not heard or read before, despite my long companionship and journey with the Book of Allah – memorizing, contemplating, interpreting, and experiencing it. They make me feel that they are divine messages that arrived during the most challenging times, and Allah, in His greatness, has made them a light for me on the path, a steadfastness from Him on the path of truth, and a support in the face of life’s trials. I have greatly benefited from them, having lived through what Joseph experienced in the well and endured what Jonah suffered within the belly of the whale. Yet, I was certain that Allah – the Almighty and All-Powerful – would rescue me with His might from distress and darkness. And so it was, thanks to Allah’s grace and favor. I incorporated these reflections into my sermons and speeches, and with Allah’s help, they reached the hearts of those who heard them, profoundly impacting them. I saw fit to share them so that a larger number of Muslims could benefit from them, and the hearts of believers could resonate with them, hoping they might affect them just as they affected me and those who heard them.
Dear brothers and sisters, I am pleased to present to you the first part of the series of "Quranic reflections", to every person with a message, to every one troubled, sad, or in grief, I say, do not be sad, indeed, Allāh is with us. My desire was to share these thoughts and divine messages with you completely for free, but there have been many expenses incurred to bring this book to light. So, I decided to combine both systems, and the book will now be offered in a new system called 'Pay What You Want.' This allows the generous reader to set the price they want for the book or even set it at 'zero' to read it as a free gift. I ask Allāh, the Almighty, to accept from us and from you and to help us continue producing more works in the same way.
The book summary and index:
"And Thus We Found Them" reflects the spiritual and faith experiences of the author, Hossam Ash-Sharqawy. The book delves into divine thoughts that inspired the author during hard times, focusing on new meanings of Quranic verses. Ash-Sharqawy connects his stories to those of prophets like Yūsuf (Joseph), Yūnus (Jonah) and Muḥammad, peace be upon them, drawing lessons about patience and trust in Allāh (God). The book aims to inspire and support readers during trials, encouraging faith and reliance on Allāh (God).
And similarly, We caused them to be found.
And had he not been of those who exalt Allāh.
Indeed, adversity has touched me.
When he came to his Lord with a sound heart.
Uff to you and to what you worship instead of Allāh.
Indeed, I will go to [where I am ordered by] my Lord; He will guide me.
But only that my heart may be satisfied.
In an uncultivated valley.
So see what you think.
Indeed, I will make you a leader for the people.
Our Lord, accept [this] from us.
Indeed Allāh is with us.
Hossam Ash-Sharqawy
An Islamic preacher and thinker, specialized in translation and Islamic studies in Arabic, Spanish, and English. He has delivered over 500 sermons, translated and reviewed numerous books and promotional materials over a span of 25 years. He is the founder and chairman of the board of Al-Andalus Group LTD for Islamic Translation, London, United Kingdom.
