Lessons from the Rise & Fall of Civilizations; Investing in Hereafter - Maulana Syed Muhammad Rizvi

Recognizing historical bias; Euro-centric views often overlook contributions from other civilizations.
Term "Dark Ages" specifically applies to Europe (500-1500 AD) after the fall of the Roman Empire, not the entire world.
During Europe’s Dark Ages, the Muslim world led in science and knowledge, with significant contributions under Muslim rule in Spain.
Cordoba and Sicily were major centers of learning; rulers promoted science, funded libraries, and opened academies.
Medicine in Muslim Spain was advanced, attracting European nobles for treatment, and Arabic texts were translated, influencing European civilization.
Recent political statements, such as Netanyahu’s, claim a "war of civilizations"; Macron criticized this view, suggesting such framing may itself sow "barbarism."
Muslim civilization’s decline attributed to two causes: stagnation from arrogance and a detachment from spiritual guidance (Qur’an and Ahlul Bayt).
Historical neglect of true sources of wisdom, as shown by disregard for figures who offered profound knowledge, reflects the decline.
Imam Ali’s Sermon number 203 urges focus on the hereafter over worldly life, advising that the world is a temporary passage to prepare for the afterlife.
Reflecting on life, Imam Ali emphasizes: do not sin, purify the heart, and prioritize actions for the afterlife over material legacies.
Angels question deeds for the hereafter, contrasting worldly concerns about inheritance.
Charitable acts should be viewed and encouraged as spiritual investments for the hereafter.

Friday Juma Khutba
October 25th, 2024

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