EXCERPT FROM TARBIYYAH- BY ABDULHAQQ MUSTAPHA

EXCERPT FROM TARBIYYAH 

10th of Sha'ban, 1447 A.H

29th of January, 2026 C.E 

Tarbiyyah Lecture by: Faḍīlatush-Shāykh Al-Imām Dr Shu'aib Imrān Ayinde Eleree (حفظه الله ورعاه)

Allah gives us lessons from places we least expect. Sometimes, not from kings or scholars, but from a tiny creature beneath our feet. In Sūratun-Naml, Allah tells us about an ant and how it acted when danger was approaching.

Allah says that Prophet Sulayman عليه السلام was moving with his great army made up of humans, jinn, and birds, all marching in perfect order.  As they approached a valley filled with ants, something remarkable happened.

One ant noticed the approaching army. It did not run away silently to save itself alone. Instead, it spoke. It warned others. It said, “O ants, enter your homes so that Sulayman and his soldiers do not crush you while they are unaware.”

This ant understood danger early. It understood responsibility. It understood that safety is not only personal but collective. The ant shared information immediately so that others would be safe.

This is a deep lesson for our lives.

First, it teaches us awareness. The ant observed its environment. It paid attention. Many people get harmed not because danger is too big, but because they ignore signs. As Muslims blessed with the noble words of Allah (Al-Qur'ān), we should be alert, thoughtful, and wise in every situation.

Second, we should learn from the ant about care for others. It did not say, “Let me save myself.” It said, “O ants.” It thought of the weak, the slow, the young, and the many. True character is shown when you think beyond yourself. Be considerate. Wish good for others as you wish good for yourself.

Third, we should learn the importance of sharing information. One voice saved a community. Imagine if the ant kept quiet. Silence can be dangerous. When you know something that can protect others, share it. Information about security, safety, and danger should not be hidden.

In our time, this lesson applies strongly. If you know about security risks, warn others. If you know a safer path, guide others. If you know a better way, teach others. Knowledge that is not shared is like light hidden under a cover.

Fourth, Good Communication. The ant spoke clearly. It was calm. It did not insult Sulayman or accuse him. It even excused him, saying they might crush them without knowing. This teaches us fairness and good thoughts about others. Always assume goodness.

Fifth, we can learn generosity in business and life from the ant. Share opportunities. Share ideas. Share connections. Helping others in business will never block your destined provision. What Allah has written for you will reach you. Rizq is from Allah, not from hoarding informations or 'updates'.

Link people up. Connect others. Teach what you know. Gift from the bounties Allah has given you. When you lift others, Allah lifts you. When you protect others, Allah protects you.

This small ant shows us that size does not determine impact. You may feel small, unknown, or insignificant, but one sincere action can save many. One kind word can protect a community. One shared knowledge can change lives.

Let us learn from the ant.

Be aware.

Be considerate.

Share information.

Care for others.

Trust Allah with your provision.

In these small acts lie great lessons, and in these simple creatures lie signs for those who reflect.

© ABDULHAQQ MUSTAPHA 

(Al-Bayāniyy)

- Nigeria