Warning of punishment

The basic philosophy of a society which does not live by the values of the Qur’an is that man is responsible to himself alone. According to that superstitious way of thinking, man needs only to provide the best conditions for himself and surround himself with the most comfortable environment he can. He assumes no responsibility whatsoever toward the lives of others. This being the case, most people assume they are accountable only for their own adherence to religious values and thus distance themselves from any responsibility for communicating Allah’s message to others. From the Qur’anic viewpoint, however, the reality is quite different.

Among a Muslim’s responsibilities is to convey the religion of Islam to the people around him and encourage them to believe in Allah. In the Qur’an, Allah reveals this in the words:

You who are enveloped in your cloak!

Arise and warn. (Surat al- Muddaththir; 1-2)

Every Muslim is also responsible for calling others to Islam. The believer wants everyone to share his contentment in Islam. His objective is to communicate the existence of Allah to everyone, make people aware that they will be called to account in the Hereafter and describe how Hell is a true place of torment for those who fail to obey Allah’s commandments. For a Muslim, these duties are far more important than commerce, comfort or entertainment. In order to communicate Allah’s religion to people, they do whatever it takes, even if it means abandoning home or possessions. In the Qur’an, Allah addresses His Prophet (saas) and all believers, saying:

Warn them of the Day of Bitter Regret when the affair will be resolved. But they take no notice. They have no faith. (Surah Maryam; 39)