Australia: Al-Hidayah 2024 concludes with Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri's keynote speech on repentance

His Eminence Shaykh-ul-Islam Dr. Muhammad Tahir-ul-Qadri delivered his final lecture on the third day of Al-Hidayah 2024, focusing on the topic of Repentance (Tawbah) in Melbourne, Australia.

His Eminence Shaykh-ul-Islam was accompanied by Chairman Supreme Council Dr. Hassan Mohiuddin Qadri, President Minhaj-ul-Quran International Prof. Dr. Hussain Mohi-ud-Din Qadri, President Minhaj-ul-Quran Women League International Dr. Ghazala Qadri, Mrs. Fizzah Hussain Qadri, and Shaykh Ahmad Mustafa al-Arabi al-Qadri.

His Eminence emphasized the importance of Tawbah, stating that every Muslim is obliged to turn to Allah in repentance. Repentance is crucial as it divides people into two categories: repentant servants or transgressors. There is no third option. Being unremorseful leads one to become a wrongdoer, as Allah commands us to constantly repent to Him.

Shaykh-ul-Islam highlighted that Prophet Muhammad ﷺ used to repent more than 70 times a day, and in another hadith, more than 100 times. Despite being infallible and pure, prophets engaged in repentance to elevate their ranks. For them, Tawbah was a means to attain proximity to Allah. For believers, it is compulsory in every situation to turn from the darkness of disbelief to the light of belief and obedience.

He elaborated that Tawbah means returning to Allah Almighty, returning to obedience, piety, and righteousness. It involves turning from disbelief to belief, from disobedience to obedience, and recognizing that the ability to do good deeds is a favor from Allah Almighty, not our own doing.

Shaykh-ul-Islam stressed that believers should continuously work for the propagation of Allah’s deen but always remain humble and thankful. It is Allah Almighty’s blessing that enables us to serve His deen. When we give to the poor or perform any righteous act, we should never feel that we have done a favor. Instead, we must recognize that Allah Almighty has chosen us as His servants. He teaches us to get attached to the righteous and chosen servants of Him. Guidance cannot be protected without leaving the company of those who incur Allah Almighty’s wrath.

Emphasizing the importance of pure intentions, Shaykh-ul-Islam referenced Rabia Basri’s emphasis on worshipping Allah Almighty only for His sake, not out of fear of Hell or desire for Heaven. True love for Allah Almighty involves seeking nothing but His pleasure.

His Eminence Shaykh-ul-Islam concluded with a profound dua for all participants, asking Allah Almighty to grant them purity and the strength to follow the path of righteousness.

Esteemed attendees and a substantial gathering of youth from across Australia graced the event with their presence.