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Believers, put your trust in Allah, and never despair

He was delivering a lecture in Al Twar area as part of the 9^th Ramadan Forum being organised by the Dubai Department of Tourism and Commerce Marketing.

“All human beings are tested and face times of difficulties. Nonetheless, Muslims should remain patient and seek God’s guidance in times of sadness, as instructed in the Holy Quran,” said Sheikh Zaya.

Citing verse 20/153 of the Quran, Sheikh Zayat said Allah would always stands by those who have patience. “We are also told in verse 1/155 that glad tidings shall be granted to those who say: ‘To Allah we belong, and to Him is our return’, when afflicted with calamity.”

Such acceptance and surrender to God’s will be met with His blessings, assistance, mercy, and guidance.

Sheikh Zayat said, “Chapter 103 of the Holy Quran says that man is verily in loss, except believers who do righteous deeds and enjoin truth and patience.”

Muslims must not let their emotions get the better of them, he said, adding: “Of course, it’s difficult to look at the tragedies of the world today and not feel helpless and sorry. But believers are urged to put their trust in Allah Almighty, and not to fall into despair.

Meanwhile, the sixth night of the forum saw four Asian non-Muslims embracing Islam after being attracted by the greatness and tolerance of this religion.

Yabloo, a 31-year old Filipino who wished his name be changed to Abd Allah, said he had learnt a lot about Islam through his friends. “I always admired how tolerant this great religion is; it calls for good manners, love and cooperation. It took me more than five months to think about it. Finally, I made up my mind and decided to embrace Islam,” he said, adding that he would encourage his wife and two children to convert too.

J.R, who has chosen Omar as his new name, said he started admiring Islam after seeing his boss treating all the employees with modesty, love and mercy. “He used to tell us about the virtues of Islam. It encouraged me to learn more about this religion,” he said.

Omar wishes to get deeper into the teachings of Islam and has memorised the holy Quran.

Fifteen-year-old Josel, who wants to be named Azm, said he has been living in the UAE for five years with his family. “I learnt about Islam from my father, who became a Muslim last year but did not force me to convert. He kept informing me about the values of this great religion. I used to listen to the verses of the Holy Quran and understand its meanings. This encouraged me to embrace Islam. All people are equal in this religion.”

The youngest of the converts, 13-year-old boy Jimi, whose new name is Jamal, said that he and his brother had embraced Islam after they felt a significant change in their father’s behaviour after he became a Muslim.

Their father did not force them to become Muslims. Jamal was extremely attracted to the holy Quran. “I felt Islam changes people for the better.”

ahmedshaaban@khaleejtimes.com

• UAE