Remembrance
“And remember your Lord if you forget”
Surah Al Kahf 18:24
I love how this verse encourages us to remember God, acknowledging our human tendency to forget, even the most essential matters. In Arabic, the word for human, ‘insān’, is often linked to ‘nisyān’, meaning forgetfulness. Faith can fluctuate, and we may go through various phases, like the changing cycles of the moon.
While it is natural for this to happen, when we are not mindful of the Divine, we tend to feel lost and somewhat blocked. Yet deeply embedded within our souls is God’s love. By directing our attention to Him with both heart and mind, we instantly reconnect to an unexplained force, a universe of truth and connection. Once we recharge ourselves, we feel uplifted, carried with compassion, and guided by light.
This verse is a reminder that no matter how far we stray, we can always reconnect – steering away from an unexplained void toward peace and contentment. I love how this verse is from Surah Al-Kahf, where Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) encouraged us to read it every Friday. It almost feels like the anchor after a busy week, to slow down, refuel our souls and be charged with the Creator’s love.
“You may forget, yet he is incapable of forgetting, he is a part of you”
Deena Fadel
Today. take a moment to reflect and journal on those times when you felt distant from God. Recall how life was, recall your thoughts, emotions and circumstances. Be compassionate with yourself knowing that it is part of human nature to go through different phases.
Now, recall those moments when you felt deeply connected to God, when His presence filled your heart with love. What were you doing? How did it feel?
Write about both experiences, noticing the contrast between disconnection and connection.
Then, choose a simple practice of remembrance today; whether whispering His name, pausing in gratitude, or reflecting on His love.
“In Arabic the word for a human being is insan, which many scholars suggest is derived from the root word nisyan, which means “forgetfulness,” and unsiyah which means intimacy, to love, be loved, and to become close to.” At the very root of being human we can see that we were not created to find God, but rather to remember and return to the intimate relationship we already have with him. Our journey on Earth is not just to God, it is from God, with God, and into the love of God.”
Secrets of Divine Love – A. Helwa
“Living mindfully, slowing down and enjoying each step and each breath, is enough. Peace is already present in each step, and if we walk in this way, a flower will bloom under our feet with every step.
In fact the flowers will smile at us and wish us well on our way.”
Peace Is Every Step – Thich Nhat Hanh
