Discarding Incorrect Strategies

It is important for the husband and wife to watch out for the machinations of the Devil for he might whisper in the mind of one of the two parties that the other is usurping his or her rights or is involved in such and such a sin, therefore, as a redress, one should also violate the spouse's rights or indulge in a similar sin.

This line of thinking is damaging and incorrect. Each person will be buried in his own grave and will be held accountable for his own deeds. Allah will question everyone as to how he fared in fulfilling the responsibilities delegated to him. By suppressing one's pride and making some effort one could escape a grievous torment and render the after-life eternally blissful. This temporal life could also become joyous for the couple who heeds this. Even if only one of the partners follow this advice it will be beneficial at least in terms of the life to come. Allah willing, that person will experience special peace and protection from hardships and loss in an inconceivable manner. We believe that Allah's Judgment will surely come to pass. He has assured:

"....Allah will grant a way out for anyone who heeds Him, and provide for him in a manner he could never anticipate. Allah suffices for anyone who relies on Him. . ." (Qur’an, Surah At-Talaq, 65:2-3)

The fruits of fulfilling the rights of Allah and His creation will then become evident. Our Creator has said:

 “We shall let anyone who acts honourably, whether it is a man or woman, provided he is a believer, live a happy life and reward them with their earnings for the finest deeds they have been doing.” (Qur’an, Surah An-Nahl, 16:97)

The interpreters of the Holy Qur’an, such as Abdullah bin Abbas (radhiallaho anho), have explained that the life indicated in the above verse refers to the life in this world. Peace and tranquility is implied by "happy life." Only those can attain it, who are reconciled with whatever Allah has decreed, and are free of greed. It is obvious that such blissful life is granted only to those who have submitted to the true religion of Allah. Those who are rebellious to their Creator cannot be blessed with this boon. On the contrary, despite possessing innumerable means of outward comfort, their lives are miserable. Greed gives rise to such discontentment that these people remain worried about amassing wealth. Should something happen contrary to their plans, their state of shock, triggered by not reconciling with the Divine Decree, may even lead to suicide. This subject has been referred to as follows:

 “Anyone who fails to remember Me will have a meager living, and We shall summon him as a blind person on the Day of Resurrection.” (Qur’an, Surah Ta-Ha, 20:124)

Thus it is necessary to learn the mandatory aspects of Islamic teachings from someone who practices what he teaches. By practising the teachings detailed in authentic religious books one can embark upon the route to peace and tranquility in this life and the eternal life of the hereafter.

May Allah bless us with correct understanding and help us perform good deeds.