Selective Faith in Islam: Choosing Convenience Over Commitment?
In the modern world, the art of selective adherence to faith has become a fascinating phenomenon. Let’s analyze the mindset of many Muslims, where the delicate balance of faith and convenience is a daily phenomenon—one that often tips heavily in favor of comfort or desires. It’s like a new spiritual diet: “I’ll take a little faith on the side, but let’s keep the main course filled with convenience.” So, grab your favorite snack, sit back, and let’s explore the delightful contradictions of those who prioritize convenience over commitment in their Islamic practice.
1. Work-Life Balance? More Like Work-When-It-Suits You
Islam teaches us the value of hard work. The Quran encourages believers to strive for their sustenance, to earn a living that supports their families. But for many Muslims, this teaching seems to be interpreted as, “Work? Only if I feel like it!” The idea of putting in long hours at a job to provide for the family is often replaced with the much more appealing option of lounging on the couch, binge-watching the latest series on Netflix and than going when as desired.
Let’s be real: why bother with the grind when you can take the lazy route? “Money isn’t everything,” they say, while scrolling through social media for the latest memes. Who needs financial security when you can engage in an endless dreams on bed? It’s the perfect escape from reality—just make sure your family has a solid savings plan because your commitment to work is on a permanent vacation!
Contrast this with the times of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), who was known for his tireless work ethic. He engaged in trade, working hard to support his family and community. His life was a testament to the idea that faith and hard work go hand in hand. The companions followed his example, striving to earn a halal livelihood while also fulfilling their spiritual duties. They didn’t wait for the perfect moment to work; they understood that effort was essential in both this life and the hereafter.
2. Family Gatherings? Not Today!
Family functions are those charming occasions designed to strengthen ties, filled with laughter, love, and the occasional awkward silence. But for some, they often represent an ordeal to be avoided at all costs. “Why go to a cousin’s wedding or prayers in a gathering?,” they muse, “when there’s a call to chill out or supper, ready to go anytime bro!”
Let’s face it: the thought of enduring endless conversations with relatives about your job, your marital status, and problems?”—is enough to send anyone running for the hills. So instead, they opt for a fancy dinner, snapping photos of their delectable meals for social media. Because who needs to connect with family when you can post about your amazing avocado toast instead?
The Prophet (peace be upon him) emphasized the importance of maintaining family ties, stating, “Whoever wishes that his provision be increased and his lifespan be prolonged should maintain the ties of kinship.” He didn’t just preach these values; he practiced them, regularly visiting relatives and emphasizing the importance of community. Not only did he foster connections with his family, but he also engaged with non-Muslims, spending time with them and promoting mutual respect and understanding. So, when selective Muslims choose to skip family events for the latest dining hotspot, it’s a far cry from the commitment and inclusiveness displayed during the Prophet’s time.
3. Wives Working: The Unseen Burden of Financial Independence
It’s truly touching to see wives heading off to work, even when the family finances are perfectly stable. “I know you’re fine, but I’d like to contribute just a little more,” they say, as if the family finances were a puzzle missing a piece. After all, why take time to nurture relationships at home when you can be part of the workforce, chasing that elusive paycheck that’s not even necessary?
Nothing screams commitment like earning an extra salary that the family doesn’t even need! It’s a bold statement: “Look at me, I’m independent!” Meanwhile, back at home, the family is probably thinking, “Wow, she really doesn’t want to help out with dinner.” The irony is rich—when the wife’s commitment to work overshadows her commitment to the family, it begs the question: What’s the point?
This scenario often arises from misunderstandings about Islamic teachings, particularly when a husband believes that financial stability isn’t crucial in a developed country. He may think, “Money isn’t everything,” while neglecting the responsibilities that come with being a provider. This mindset can lead to a situation where the wife feels pressured to step in and contribute, even when it’s not necessary, jeopardizing the family unit as they chase after an unnecessary paycheck instead of nurturing their home.
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) exemplified balance in family life. He understood the importance of providing for one’s family and often emphasized that both men and women have roles to play in supporting the household. He encouraged men to work diligently to support their families and also acknowledged the vital contributions women made, both at home and in the workforce. This balanced approach fostered a strong family unit, where both partners worked together to achieve stability and harmony.
In contrast, the selective choices made today can create a disconnect in family dynamics. When a husband dismisses the importance of financial responsibility and the wife feels compelled to step outside her primary role, it can lead to confusion and tension. The Prophet’s teachings remind us that true commitment involves a partnership built on understanding and shared responsibilities, rather than a race for independence at the expense of family cohesion.
4. Halal? Only When It’s Convenient
Halal dietary laws are foundational in Islam, emphasizing purity and ethical consumption. Yet, when dining out, the allure of a juicy burger can easily overshadow these principles.
Imagine this: a group of friends decides to visit the latest burger joint. Sure, the halal option is a twenty-minute drive away, but the non-halal place is just around the corner. “Let’s just go here; it’ll be quicker!” they exclaim, as if simply avoiding pork and alcohol is enough to make their meal acceptable.
But here’s the catch: just because there’s no obvious pork or alcohol doesn’t mean the food is truly halal. What about those hidden non-halal ingredients that might be lurking in the kitchen? From lard in the cooking oil to other additives, the reality is that the kitchen may not be Muslim-friendly at all. Who knows how the food is prepared or if it has come into contact with non-halal items? Yet, with an Instagram-worthy meal on the line, it’s easy to overlook those important considerations.
Choosing halal isn’t just about avoiding pork; it’s about ensuring the entire meal aligns with one’s values. When we prioritize convenience over integrity, we risk compromising our beliefs and health. So next time you’re tempted by the nearby fast food joint, remember that a little extra effort can go a long way in upholding your values.
Even someone close to me once pointed out that dining in halal-certified restaurants that display deities for good luck could be detrimental to my spiritual goals. That comment hit me hard. Yet, I found myself selectively rationalizing my choices, thinking, “Well, as long as it’s halal-certified, it’s fine!”
However, when I paused to reflect, I asked myself, “Would our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) do this?” The answer was a resounding no. Yes, he visited the house of a Jew, where halal food was served, but crucially, there were no deities involved (this is supported by historical accounts).
While I haven’t completely stopped dining at such restaurants yet, I’m actively working toward it. This experience made me realize how easy it is to use my knowledge of Islam to selectively approve decisions that don’t quite align with religious values. It’s a reminder to dig deeper into my beliefs and strive for choices that genuinely reflect my faith, rather than just settling for the bare minimum.
5. Quick Prayers Amidst the Chaos
When it comes to prayer, many of us tend to delay it, even though we’re well within the allotted time for it. We prioritize our personal tasks, like uploading a post on Instagram, watching an entire series, or completing other leisure activities, before turning to our prayers. It’s as if we’re giving our worldly distractions the first and best of our time, and offering what’s left to Allah. “I’ll pray right after this episode,” we say, treating prayer like just another task to tick off the list rather than a moment of true connection and reflection.
A quick, two-minute prayer seems sufficient for some. After all, in their minds, who has time for deep spirituality when there’s more content to scroll through on TikTok or the latest viral challenge to complete? It’s almost become routine to find the most convenient moment—during a commercial break or right before bed—and then rush through the prayer without the mindfulness or presence it deserves.
But if we reflect on the life of the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), we find a stark contrast. When the call to prayer came, he would immediately pause whatever he was doing and devote his full attention to his worship. His heart was fully immersed in his connection with Allah, without distraction. He taught us that prayer isn’t something to fit into our schedules; it should be the priority around which our daily lives revolve.
6. Charity: Only When It’s Convenient
Charity is a fundamental pillar of Islam, yet some seem to engage in it only when it aligns with their social calendar. “Oh look, there’s a charity gala next weekend! Let’s go and do our generosity!” they exclaim, eager to make a donation that’s as much about social media exposure as it is about giving.
Meanwhile, there are times some claims don’t have enough to give to charity—but can manage the occasional outing, a pack of cigarettes, or a quick online shopping spree. It’s a reminder that charity isn’t just about financial contributions. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) embodied the spirit of charity beyond money, showing kindness through actions. He would regularly visit family members, check on his neighbors, assist the weak, and engage in community service, reminding us that charity includes spending time with loved ones, taking our parents out, and offering a comforting presence. These acts don’t require wealth but carry immense value in the eyes of Allah. Charity, in its truest sense, is less about grand gestures and more about consistent acts of kindness, whether or not anyone is watching.
7. Modesty? Only for Special Occasions
When it comes to modesty in dress, some Muslims seem to reserve their finest and most modest outfits for special occasions, while keeping it casual the rest of the time. “Oh, I’ll just throw on this oversized t-shirt and leggings today,” they think, saving the eye-catching abayas or carefully styled outfits for that upcoming wedding or event. For them, modesty is an accessory to be worn for worthy moments, while comfort takes over the rest of the time. It’s an approach to modesty that says, “Dress to impress when it counts, but relax when it doesn’t.” After all, maintaining modesty every day feels like too much work!
On the other end of the spectrum, some wives adopt a conservative approach to modesty so strictly that it even extends into private moments with their husbands. Driven by a well-meaning but rigid adherence to modesty, they avoid dressing comfortably or beautifully at home, neglecting to doll themselves up or express feminine traits—like wearing their hair down, dressing attractively, or wearing a pleasant fragrance. Even though their husbands would appreciate a touch of warmth and charm, they stick to full modesty, unintentionally stifling the affectionate gestures a husband naturally craves.
Without realizing it, this overemphasis on outward modesty, without the right balance or intention, can begin to dampen the spark in the marriage. The wife’s lack of attention to these small but meaningful gestures can leave a husband feeling unseen in his own home, and his attention might begin to drift toward the friendly flirtations or subtle charms of others who seem to embrace both modesty and femininity with more ease. Modesty in Islam is beautiful when it is balanced, honoring both our faith and the intimate bond of marriage, reminding us that devotion and attraction go hand in hand.
8. The Culture of Convenience
In a world where convenience reigns supreme, many Muslims have taken a shortcut in their spiritual journeys, opting for the self-thought lane over the actual route. Why bother attending community events or engaging in deep discussions about faith when you can binge-watch a YouTube lecture not meant for our community.
Choosing instant noodles over a home-cooked meal is a quick fix, but you’re really just settling for blandness without the nutrients! Likewise, attending an Islamic prayer gathering in a relative’s home is like diving into a hearty stew—warm, satisfying, and full of flavor, courtesy of Allah’s mercy of Silatur-Rahim. Meanwhile, watching a YouTube lecture alone is like munching on a frozen dinner—convenient, but you miss the richness of shared laughter and spiritual growth.
When you gather for prayers, you’re not just flexing your faith muscles; you’re also nurturing relationships with relatives and friends. It’s the perfect recipe for meaningful connections, where you can swap stories, ask questions, and feel the essence of Islam come alive. So, while YouTube might serve up quick bites of knowledge, nothing can replace the delightful feast of togetherness, prayers, and joy with your loved ones!
9. The Great Balancing Act
Ultimately, a Muslim lifestyle should be a balancing act, but usually one that often favors convenience over genuine commitment to faith. It’s a curious blend of making choices that prioritize ease rather than ethics. As they navigate their lives, it might be worth considering whether these choices truly align with their values or if they’re just convenient options dressed up as commitments.
Conclusion
The journey of some Muslim could be filled with contradictions that often prioritize understanding of Islam via their prejudiced understanding of it, over Genuity. As they juggle the complexities of modern living, it’s time to take a long, hard look at whether these choices truly reflect the values they claim to uphold. Perhaps it’s time to consider the balance between “I know better than them” or comfort, rather ensuring that faith isn’t just a convenient accessory but a guiding principle that informs their everyday lives.
In the end, the question remains: will Muslims choose the path of genuine commitment to their faith, or will they continue to prioritize convenience amidst a world brimming with distractions? As contemporary practices emerge, some may find themselves drifting away from the true essence of Islam, often embracing surface-level spirituality rather than deep, meaningful engagement. Only time—and perhaps a little self-reflection—will reveal the impact of these choices on their spiritual journeys.
