GUEST POST BY:          AMMAR KHAN

The Prophet (S.A.W.) said, “You will surely follow the ways, steps, or traditions of those who came before you, span by span and yard by yard (very closely) even if they entered a lizard’s hole you will enter it.” The companions asked, “Oh prophet, you mean the Jews and Christians?” so he answered, “Who else!”

(Sahih Al Bukhari)

The recent multimedia revolution has steered the Muslim Ummah to take a nosedive into
the putrid filth of a disbeliever’s lifestyle. Ironically, Muslim teenagers are well-aware of
the valiant Brad Pitt and his latest tweets, quite capable of giving a detailed narrative of
his biography. But when asked about Muhammad Bin Ismaeel their faces morph into
contortion, not recognizing this great person by his name; although he is none other than
the extremely famous Imam Bukhari. Unfortunately, we have lost our way and now run
directionless like a headless chicken.

In fact, this disaster is only a ripple effect – a result of our sinful daily routines. Most of
us find ourselves intent on taking a daily dose of television and movies, while spending a
day without music has become unheard of. In our prayers we reminisce of the truckload of
movie trailers we have just seen and all the while we aspire to join a party of spendthrift
people lost in the lustrous attractions of this world. Our focus towards our inevitable end
has become deterred. It is only natural that we have become brainwashed with exposure;
that our morals and values instead germinate from the views and opinions of celebrities
and superstars presented by the media.

But it’s not all unchangeable. For instance, until recently I was also a movie fanatic with an
inseparable earphone of music plugged into my head. My world revolved around albums of
addictive music and movie series. Shaytaan had deluded me to such an extent that I
started doubting the truth of Islam. Praise is to Allah (SWT) for guiding me back to the
straight path and strengthening me in striving towards good.

Brothers and sisters, it is never too late to amend your ways; By Allah if you sincerely
return to Allah in repentance seeking His forgiveness, He will forgive you and open His
doors of mercy for you… because that is His promise.