Show us the way

Quick links 

When you are on a spiritual journey it is important that you know how to proceed towards your destination. There may be several paths. Some may be easy, some extremely difficult. And some, that may take you just in the opposite direction!

When you are lost and unable to decide for yourself, what do you do? The easiest thing is to ask someone for direction. Probably, that someone would know the right way and he may guide you.

But unfortunately, the world is full of false Gurus who have their own vested interest in guiding people. Many a times, they may not know the right path at all, but they pretend to be knowing. Sometimes, they may knowingly mislead you.

Taking guidance from such people does not help. In fact, it is more likely that you may land in trouble. So what is the way out?

Pray to God for the right way. He is the Guru of all Gurus. He knows what is right for you. He always wants to do good to you. Nobody can be a better guide than God.

But how does God show you the way?

First pray for guidance. Keep your eyes wide open. Look around. Look at other people before you, who have made spiritual progress. Carefully analyze their conduct. Are they merely pretending to be moving on spiritual path or are they really devoted to God and righteousness? Are they doing anything that attracts the wrath of God? If so, they are not the people you want to follow.

Remember, right way may often be the difficult way. There may be lot of hurdles on the way. You may have to put sincere efforts to make progress. Just because some path appears to be easy, does not mean that it is right. It may lead you completely astray and away from your destination.

But if the way is right, you will reach the destination someday. Keep moving with unwavering mind. Put in efforts. Keep praying. And God willing, you will finally reach your destination one day.

The holy Quran opens with this prayer to God asking for guidance, asking for the right way. In the very first chapter or Soorah, there is this prayer to God for guidance.

“Ihdinas-Siraatal-Mustaqeem

Siraatal-lazeena an'amta 'alaihim ghayril-maghdoobi 'alaihim wa laddaaalleen”

Quran 1.6, 1.7

Translated into simple English it means

“Show us the straight way,

The way of those on whom Thou hast bestowed Thy Grace, those whose (portion) is not wrath, and who go not astray”

Muslims believe that Quran is the answer from God for this prayer for guidance. In the next chapter, i.e. in Chapter 2 Allah says

“Zaalikal Kitaabu laa raiba feeh; udal lilmuttaqeen”

“This is the Book; in it is guidance sure, without doubt, to those who fear Allah.”

Quran 2.2

Start       Prev          Next 
 

Based on verses from Holy Quran. The interpretation is by Dr.King. The Quran recitations are from various sites such as Quran.net, Quran411.com and so on.