Semerkand İngilizce Dergi Sayı: 23 - Kasım 2023

Semerkand English Magazine highlights two vital concepts of living a balanced Islamic life with the feature article, "Between Hope and Fear” in its November issue.

The article, authored by Siraceddin Önlüer, unravels the intrinsic balance a believer must strike between the profound emotions of "raja" (hope) and "khawf" (fear). Guided by the infinite grace and teachings of Allah, the article illustrates how these emotions, when harmoniously balanced, can lead one on the righteous path.

The article frequently references Quranic verses and hadiths to elucidate the importance of attaining a state of equilibrium between hope in Allah's mercy and fear of His wrath. By shedding light on stories of the Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wa sallam), revered scholars, and tales of repentance, it emphasizes the need for believers to tread the middle path — not being complacent in their hope nor despairing in their fear.

Furthermore, the narrative delves into the discernible difference between genuine hope and idle wishes, challenging readers to introspect on their actions and intentions. It also addresses the significance of repentance and Allah's boundless mercy, emphasizing the importance of not being deluded by mere hopes without righteous deeds. Drawing to a close, the article underscores the importance of faith as the foundation for genuine hope and fear, and how this faith serves as a beacon of light, guiding one through the tribulations of life.

The lead article titled "The Ideal Companions” draws from the Quran’s powerful message of seeking the companionship of the righteous servants of Allah, providing valuable insights regarding the types of pious believers whom one should surround themselves with and whose guidance they should seek like a lighthouse in a storm. The article underlines what a monumental, life-defining choice it is to follow in the footsteps of Allah’s distinguished servants by citing the hadith, "A person will be with those whom he loves," and reaches its closure with the multi-layered thought that the prayer "Guide us along the Straight Path, the Path of those You have blessed" in surah Al-Fatiha is not just a wish but a call to effort and transformation.