MUSLIM, THE ROAD AND THE RAGE! PAGE 1 OF 2: From the rapid pace of development and change the modern world continues to see, it is from the blessings of Allah given to mankind through which they continue to benefit and enjoy the results of these technological and scientific advancements. Less than two hundred years ago and before the advent of the motorised vehicle, mankind was (still) riding beasts of transport such as horses and donkeys and cattle. We continue to engineer and produce a wide range and variety of motor vehicles that are better, stronger, faster and more efficient – in the form of vehicles and motorcycles – and other than them. Allah Said in His Magnificent Book: “And (He has created) horses, mules and donkeys, for you to ride and as an adornment. And He Creates (other) things of which you have no knowledge.” So all Praise and Thanks is for Allah, by Whose generosity and blessings we enjoy the ease of social mobility today. With the provision of many modes of transportation, we need to constantly show our gratitude through upholding all the noble and praiseworthy characteristics that Islam imbibes in a person. From amongst these attributes is being responsible and exemplifying best of manners in everything that we do. As the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: “The best amongst you are those who have the best manners and character.” For those of us who drive or use transportation, we need to remember these encompassing words of the Prophet (PBUH) – And from the manners and etiquettes of driving, the following are important points to be noted and put into practice: 1. Du’a (invocation) when Entering the Vehicle It is important that we follow the Sunnah in all matters and at all specified times. When we set our foot inside the vehicle (or sit on the motorcycle), we say “Bismillah”, followed by prescribed adhkar. ‘Ali ibn Rabi’ah said, “I saw an animal brought to ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib and when he set his foot on it, he said “Bismillah” and when he was (leaning) on his back, he said, “Al Hamdulillah”. Then he invoked: “Glory is to Him Who has provided this (transport) for us and we would not have been capable of that.” Then he said, “Al Hamdulillah” three times and then said “Allahu Akbar” three times and then supplicated: “Glory is to You (O Allah), I have wronged myself (so) forgive me, for none forgives sins except You.” When going on a longer journey or travelling out of town or city, the following du’a is highly recommended: “Allah is the Most Great. Allah is the Most Great. Allah is the Most Great. Glory is to Him Who has provided this for us though we could never have had it by our efforts. Surely, unto our Lord we are returning.” 2. Not Violating Traffic Rules when Driving From our religious obligations is to obey people of authority and this also includes those put in charge of governmental affairs like health, education and transport for example. These agencies have put in place rules and regulations that make for safe environments for people to operate in and extract maximum benefits from. A key objective for transport authorities is to preserve life and maintain safety on the roads by enforcing responsible driving. It does not necessary matter is the authorities in charge are Muslim or non-Muslim because within the purpose of Shari’ah, is to maintain and preserve one’s life and property. From the examples of traffic rules, are the requirements for having a driving license to show evidence of competency. From these examples are car registration documents to prove ownership and road worthiness of the vehicle. From these examples are the wearing of seat-belts and helmets and other things like them. Then there is also the ‘Highway Code’ that lays out traffic rules such as obeying road signs, not speeding beyond the stated limits, stopping at pedestrian crossings and many other such necessities that make for a safe driving experience for the driver, his passengers and other road users. Abiding by them all is our duty Muslim drivers and riders. READ THE NEXT PAGE THAT IS PAGE 2 OF 2. TO BE CONTINUE IN SHA ALLAH.
Posted on: Tue, 23 Sep 2014 14:46:11 +0000
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