We say we love the Prophet (SAW), but do our actions really reflect that love? We say we are devoted believers, but do we follow the Sunnah? We say we understand our Deen, but do we truly understand the importance of following the Sunnah?
These are questions that we, as Muslims, should deeply reflect on. We claim to love the Prophet (SAW), but how do we show this? More importantly, do our actions align with this claim? The way we prove this love is by following the Sunnah.
A lot of us have the mindset that “it is just Sunnah.” But do we understand what we are calling “just Sunnah”? The Sunnah consists of the teachings, actions, consents and practices of the Prophet (SAW), and it serves as a guide for how us Muslims should live their lives. Love goes beyond just words-it is about actions. And the way we express our love for the Prophet (SAW) is by implementing his Sunnah.
The Sunnah: A Practical Example of the Qur’an
When we reflect on how the Qur’an was sent down and through whom it was revealed, we must also reflect on how this revelation was practiced. Through this reflection, we find that the Prophet (SAW) was the one who acted upon the revelation and implemented the guidance of the Qur’an.
If we follow the book of guidance, it is crucial that we look at how this guidance was followed-and for that, the Prophet (SAW) is our example. He showed us exactly how to implement the Qur’an’s teachings and the additional practices of life-the Sunnah.
Think of it this way: You have a book sent from Allah (AWJ), but you also have a teacher. The Prophet (SAW) is that teacher. Without the book, there would be no teacher. But at the same time, without the teacher, we would struggle to understand exactly how to apply the guidance in the book.
The Prophet (SAW): A Mercy to Mankind
The Prophet (SAW) was sent to us as a form of mercy. Allah (AWJ) says in the Quran:
“And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the universe.” (Surah Al-Anbiya 21:107)
Through his character, actions, and teachings, the Prophet (SAW) was truly a mercy to all mankind-guiding mankind to the path of righteousness and compassion.
Following the Sunnah: A Command from Allah (AWJ)
Following the Sunnah is not optional-it is a command from Allah (AWJ). In The Qur’an, Allah (AWJ) instructs the believers to follow the Prophet (SAW):
- Say [O Muhammad], ‘If you truly love Allah, then follow me; Allah will love you and forgive your sins. And Allah is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.’” (Surah Al-Imran 3:31)
- And whatever the Messenger gives you, take it, and whatever he forbids you, abstain from it. And fear Allah; indeed, Allah is severe in penalty.” (Surah Al-Hashr 59:7)
- There has certainly been for you in the Messenger of Allah an excellent pattern for anyone whose hope is in Allah and the Last Day and [who] remembers Allah often.” (Surah Al-Ahzab 33:21)
A true believer is one who obeys the Prophet (SAW). And how do we obey him? By following his Sunnah-not just listening to his teachings but actively implementing them in our daily lives. Again, we see that following the Sunnah is a way of drawing closer to Allah (AWJ).
Are We Truly Devoted Believers?
How can we claim to be devoted believers when we purposely neglect the Sunnah daily? We disregard them without question and put in no effort to implement them.
Of course, we will find it difficult to implement every Sunnah perfectly, but the effort must be there. We can never be exactly like the Prophet (SAW)-there is no one like him and there will never be anyone like him. But we can strive to be like him.
There are many practical ways we can begin incorporating Sunnah into our daily lives. And there are immense benefits in doing so:
- Gaining more rewards.
- Living a more fulfilling life that pleases Allah (AWJ).
- Serving our true purpose as Muslims.
- Stacking up good deeds for the Hereafter.
- Ultimately striving to attain Jannah.
Let’s Start with These Simple Sunnahs
Here are some easy Sunnahs we can begin implementing today:
- Greeting others with Assalamu Alaikum.
- Following the Prophet’s (SAW) way of eating and drinking:
- Smiling at one another.
- Praying the 12 Rak ‘at Sunnah prayers before/after our obligatory prayers:
- 2 Rak‘at before Fajr
- 4 Rak‘at before Zuhr
- 2 Rak‘at after Zuhr
- 2 Rak‘at after Maghrib
- 2 Rak‘at after Isha
There are many, many more Sunnahs with immense rewards.
Let Us Strive to Follow the Sunnah
Let us make a sincere effort to follow the Sunnah and strengthen our love for the Prophet (SAW). Through this, we become better believers and draw closer to Allah (AWJ).
May Allah guide us all to follow the path of His beloved Prophet (SAW), Ameen.
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Researched, organised and revised by Tahiyat Islam