By Shamsi Ali Al-Nuyorki*
In Arabic “Musafir” means a person who travels away from his homeland, a wanderer. In Islamic law a musafir is someone who leaves his residence over a certain distance and intends to stay at the destination for a specific period.
The Prophet reminds us: “Be in this world as a stranger or a traveler” (Bukhari)
We are indeed “musafir” (traveler), temporary guests on a long journey toward our final destination. The world is merely a stopping point; the true abode is the “Akhirah” (Hereafter) where real happiness and lasting life await.
Allah created us, placed us in this world, and will return us to Him after death, the grave (barzakh), and finally the resurrection. Allah reminds us: “How can you disbelieve in Allah when you were lifeless and He brought you to life; then He will cause you to die, then He will bring you [back] to life, and then to Him you will be returned (Quran 2:28).
Unfortunately, majority of the people are headless and prefer this worldly temporary life. The Qur’an reminds: “But you prefer the life of this world, while the Hereafter is better and more lasting” (QS Al‑Aʿlā 16‑17).
This wundrous world can langle us into complacency, making us forget that we are merely travelers. We press on toward an eternal destination, yet we are constantly beguiled by the illusion that this life will last forever. Allah reminds us: “He thinks his wealth will make him live forever.”
May Allah keep us on the straight Path till the end of our journey. Amin!
Happy Tuesday to all…
*Director, Jamaica Muslim Center & President, Nusantara Foundation
