I am oft surprised to see the word success in the Quran. It seems unlikely as success is a huge concept in the Western world and is typically extremely monetarily and materialistically orientated (as we shall soon see).
This is how it is seen in the Quran, in two of the verses I have memorized and often offer in prayer.
Quran 91 The Sun. By the sun and its rising brightness and by the moon as it follows it, and by the day as it reveals its glory and by the night when it draws a veil over it by the sky and how be He built it and by the earth and how He speak it and by the soul and how he formed it then inspired it to understand what is right and wrong for it. He who purifies it will indeed be successful and he who corrupts it is sure to fail. Quran 91: 1-10.
Another translation; Quran 91 The Sun (Ash-Shams) Successful indeed is the one who purifies their soul, and doomed is one who corrupts it. (Quran 91: 9-10)
Then Again in Verse 87 The Most High (Al-A’la) The Way to Success. Successful indeed are those who who purify themselves, remember their Lord and pray. But you ‘deniers only’ prefer the life of the world even though the the Hereafteris far better and more lasting.(Quran 87 14-17)
Allah (SWT) does make it perfectly clear and obvious how to achieve success in His eyes.
Looking to the West, success is defined as follows:
- the accomplishment of an aim or purpose. 2. the attainment of fame, wealth, or social status. Used in a sentence: Her success owned more to hard work than luck. 3. A person or thing that achieves desired aims or attains fame, wealth. Used in a sentence. I must make a success of my business.
Synonyms are, as the expression goes, all over the map. Here are some: Favorable outcome, triumph, prosperousness, affluence, life of ease, good life, milk and honey, megastar; high muckamuck. One can perhaps learn more by looking at the antonyms: failure, nobody.
How not to become a failure or a nobody – that is the question. That remains largely unanswered, undecided, undetermined, up in the air, in doubt, disputed, ignored, and neglected. There seems to be no easy answers.
Decided to look elsewhere for more clarification. This being the very modern age, and I being very, (shall we say), up-to-date I put this question to AI “What is success?” I queried. This answer was received.
“Success is a multifaceted concept that varies greatly among individuals, shaped by personal values, goals, and cultural influences. At its core, success often refers to the achievement of a desired outcome or the attainment of wealth, respect or fame. However, interpretations of success can differ significantly. For some, it involves achieving person and professional goals while maintaining a balanced life and making a positive impact on the world. Others may define success as the continuous pursuit of learning and growth, viewing the journey itself as a success, regardless of specific outcomes. Cultural and societal factors also play a role in shaping one’s definition of success. For instance, the traditional “American Dream” emphasizes material wealth and upward mobility, which can sometimes lead to financial stress when individuals strive to meet these societal expectations. Ultimately, success is a personal construct, and its definition can evolve over time. Aligning your pursuits with your core values and finding fulfillment in your endeavors are key components of what many consider to be true success.”
Goodness gracious – that is exactly what the Quran says. “Successful are those who purify themselves, remember their Lord, and pray.” That is a core value.
What of the consequences of failing to be successful? AI mentions financial stress as being a consequence of not meeting societal expectations. Also adding that the definition of success can evolve over time.
Whereas, the definition of Islamic success has remained the same for centuries. The consequences of not doing so are clearly explained: He who purifies the soul will be successful and he who corrupts it will surely fail. The repercussions of failure is spelled out in Quran 87, those shun the Quran. Quran 87: 11-13. “ 11. But it will be shunned by those most wretched. 12. Who will burn in the greatest fire. 13. Where they will not be able to live or die.”
Turning to more cheerful matters, playing catch upon a number of previous festive events.
Faithful readers will recall the March 30th blog where the Rainbow Paradise Beach Resort was highlighted, photos and two amateur reels attached. Friend Melissa forwarded a thoroughly professional reel, so delightful capturing the evening in its entirety. Here is the video:
iPhoto delivered a welcomed surprise. They pieced together photos taken on March 18, 2025 – calling it March 18, 2025 Penang Mosque. The two stars are Shamir Anandani and Alexis McBride visiting the Penang Floating Mosque. I will always remember that blessed day, with the reel I will not be able to forget it. Hahahaha Here is the link:
The April 1, 2O25 blog features a photo of a spectacular sunrise. The last sentence: “I sent the photo to Fazil saying: “The most beautiful sunrise ever. A sign that brought comfort and peace.” He responded with these fine words, which brought a response.
He: “And which of the favours of your Lord will you deny?” 😊
Me: What a lovely message. I guess food is a favour I am presently denying as I am fasting. Other than that, I am basking in His favours with gratitude. Soon food.I shall perhaps power nap until food. Peace be upon you, Alaa
Then this exchange of text messages beginning with Shamir’s sending an Instagram reel which was very profound and enlightening and echoed conversations we had been having about the Islamic Faith. Here is the link: https://www.instagram.com/reel/DF-W_cxMQ3x/?igsh=ZThjOXBpeWNleWMx. It was sent by maryamlemusofficial. The woman begins by questioning; What is a good Muslim. I immediately forwarded it to Fazil.
Me: Great simple message. Best of all Shamir sent it to me. We talk about the faith a lot and this woman reflects my beliefs. Oh, and he reads my blogs.
He: Amen. Can’t say it better than that.
Me: And you are a man of many words. Alhamdulillah.
I opened one of his stories.
Me: Love that you posted this Mashallah. I shall tell Shamir.
Later.
Me: I did. He saw it. I told him he was famous. Sort of.
This the conversation between Shamir and myself
Me: Fazil said of the reel Amen. Can’t say it better than that. Then this morning posted it as his Story. I did say to him “and you are a man of many words.” He did not heart that message but did all the others.
He: I saw!!!
MeL You are now famous. Finally Sort of Hahaha
He: Hahaha Almost famous.
Me: Now you have a new nickname. SAFE Shamir Almost Famous Exceptional
Seems I am sending all of these links, including all of these conversations for a specific reason. It seems what I am trying to show is that being a Muslim is not a chore, it can be a joy. There must be serious moments, contemplating the faith, learning more, receiving interpretations from those of great knowledge but also from an occasional Instagram reel. Relief from any burdens and responsibilities required from the faith can be found. The faith is intended to be a Way of Ease, Muslim Character begins with these words.
The holy Prophet has stated that the foremost purpose of his being sent to this world with the method of his call to the people in these words. “I have been sent only for the purpose of perfecting good morals.” -(Al Muta) (Muslim Character pg.1 )
I am in new territory, living here in Malaysia surrounded by people with great hearts. It does take some adjustment on my part as I fear my past will be replicated and I shall be betrayed. I pray twice a day seeking refuge from Allah (SWT) from Worry, Grief, Incapacity, Cowardice, Miserliness, Being Heavily in Debt, from the Control of Oppressors. It is of comfort to know the Prophet (PBUH) made this same prayer. Even the esteemed Prophet (PBUH) sought refuge from His God.
I sent photos of my morning sunrises to those close to me. Yesterday sent a photo of the direction I face when offering my Fajr prayer, the prayer offered from the balcony of my apartment. I shall include the photo with the subject line: Not my sunrise yet
Me: This from the site of my Fajr prayer facing the Kaaba.
I am leaving today on a short trip, a rather momentous one which began rather shakily. I am prepared. My hair blown dry (photo to follow) and a mani and a pedi. I have gold toes, never had gold toes before. Have a great Malaysian manicurist located in Penang Plaza – Vintage Nails. So lighthearted photos along with a solemn religious one.
