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THE 5 WHYS

Why God?

All of us have the feeling that we suffer from limitations that make us helpless. These experiences—a loss, illness, accidents, death or old age—repeatedly remind us of the fact that we are in need of a Superior Power without which we cannot go on in life. These feelings are a psychological proof of the existence of God. In this way each one of us, in our inner beings, witnesses the existence of God. The nature of every human being constantly urges them to recognize the need for God. Without God, our lives cannot be complete. Without the help of God, we cannot succeed in life.

Why Freedom?

Man has been given freedom in this world by his Creator as a test. This freedom has opened doors of two kinds for man, one leading to success and the other to failure. If, on receiving freedom an individual becomes arrogant and insolent, it will mean that he has failed the test. But if on the other hand, he remains modest and humble, bowing to his Lord’s will on all occasions, he will have made the right use of his Godgiven freedom: he will, without any compulsion, have bound himself by divine principles. One who chooses this course will succeed in the test of freedom. He will be handsomely rewarded by God as no other creature. Held to be the chosen servant of God, he will remain in an everlasting state of bliss and blessedness.

Why Peace?

Peace is the only option for man in the world today. The greatest benefit of peace is that it opens up opportunities to the ultimate extent; whereas the greatest ill-effect of violence is that it limits opportunities. That is why Islam teaches us to avoid violence and confrontation at all costs and commands us to establish peace to the greatest possible degree. Peace enables normal relations to be established between people. Feelings of love and friendship prevail in such a situation. In a favourable atmosphere constructive activities flourish and the existing resources can be used for progress and development. A positive bent of mind will prevail which will help develop academic and intellectual understanding.

Why Tolerance?

The habit of tolerance prevents a man from wasting his time and talent on unnecessary matters. When negatively affected by another’s unpalatable behaviour, your mental equilibrium is upset. On the other hand, emotionally untouched by such behaviour, your mind will fully retain its equilibrium and, without wasting a single moment, you will continue to perform your work in the normal way. The policy of tolerance or forbearance enhances your efficacy, while intolerant behaviour reduces it. Tolerance is not an act of compulsion. It is a positive principle of life, expressing the noble side of a man’s character. The existence of tolerant human beings in a society is just like the blooming of flowers in a garden.

Why Hard Work?

All learning is acquired in the school of hard work; all progress is achieved at the price of unflagging effort. Perseverance is a virtue which can be practised at all times, even by one who is crippled by a disease, and even by one who had failed to get a degree from a university. Hard work, in fact, is the brightest jewel in the crown of human virtues.