Editorial

As human beings whose every moment of existence, ounce of strength, and fiber of being is dependent on Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala), our connection with our endlessly merciful and benevolent creator is a singular lifeline that brings a unique vitality to the essence of what makes us human. This connection is the one thing that keeps us truly alive and the heart is the conduit that carries this connection between the creator and the servant. 

But what does this connection enable in a human being? To answer this question, we need only look at the examples set before us by friends of Allah, also known as awliya, who cherish and nurture this connection their entire lives and guide others to do the same. In this template of an ideal human being cast in a perfect mold through the awliya’s far-sighted guidance, a servant of Allah whose heart beats with the purpose of seeking that which pleases Allah remembers Him with each breath he draws, each step he takes, and even with each motion of his body. This state of remembrance breathes a life into a person’s heart beyond what is considered life as far as biological signs are concerned. To lose this irreplaceable connection and essential form of life is a most regrettable deprivation.

In this context, the cycle of life and death takes on a drastically different meaning, and the realization of who is truly alive or dead within this surge of awareness leaves a striking afterthought in our minds. Just as we are alive because of Allah, we are alive only to the extent that we are together with Allah through remembrance, obedience, worship, and, of course, repentance. Every remembrance and repentance is like a new breath: a fresh start that lets us turn over a new leaf through His infinite grace and mercy. So, let us rejuvenate our hearts while there is still a chance, especially in this season of mercy, for the doors of His mercy are wide open as long as we draw breath.

We hope to see you in the April issue inshallah.

M. Galip Dönmez