PEOPLE OF THE CAVE

FAJR REMINDER: THE STORY OF SOME YOUTHS
By: Umm Affan
Shawwal 15, 1439 (29-June-2018)

There are four stories in Surah Al-Kahf. I will discuss one today, and maybe the remaining will be discussed some other days. The first story [in verse 9-26] is about some believing young men (known as THE PEOPLE OF THE CAVE) who were living in a disbelieving land and faced with the TRIAL OF RELIGION (or FAITH). They decided to migrate and take refuge in a cave, in order to safeguard their faith after witnessing antagonism from their people. Allah says (in verse 13): “…Truly! They were young men who believed in their Lord (Allah), and We increased them in guidance.” Whilst in the cave, they had a deep sleep for a number of years having Allah’s Mercy in the cave and care from the sun. This was indeed a sign from Allah. When they woke up, they discovered that their people had all embraced Islamic Monotheism (i.e. the worship of the Only True God - Allah).

Allah Akbar! I learnt from this story that one should always stand for justice even if people hate it, and the greatest justice to stand for is worshipping Allah Alone and calling to His Worship. Only therein lies success. Another point of benefit is the importance of having good companions (people of like minds). Allah says (in Surah At-Tawbah [9] verse 119): “O you who believe! Be afraid of Allah, and be with those who are true (in words and deeds).” More so, the youths should be proactive and strive for positive change. Finally, we should know that, guidance is only from Allah. The callers to the Path of Allah need only to wisely and humbly call and Allah is the One to actually guide. I beseech Allah to please make us of the truthful ones. (Aameen)