- The article scrutinises the modern-day phenomenon of prioritising online personas and the prevalence of vanity metrics.
- It delves into the concept of mindfulness within Islam and examines the utilisation of escapism as a coping mechanism in moments of profound anguish.
Wander into the self-help aisle of any bookstore, where even the creakiest floorboard can’t drown out the chorus of titles urging readers to seize the present moment. From Echart Tolle’s ‘The Power of Now’ to ‘Stop Missing Your Life’, these books offer a roadmap to embracing life’s unfolding chapters.
Is it time for us to prioritise embracing the present moment?
In the era of perpetual online existence, we see an absurd snapshot of our times. Never before have people felt the need to snap their Nandos and show the world their peri peri chips prior to eating a meal with their loved ones.
The trend of chic brunch spots adorning London, boasting charming pink hues and Instagrammable flower walls is prevalent across the city. These establishments have evolved beyond catering solely to culinary preferences; they now prioritise satisfying your Instagram aesthetic. However, amidst the anticipation of savouring a delectable bite of Lotus Biscoff French toast, tranquility is often disrupted by a sudden interruption: “Hold on, not yet- let me just take a pic for my Instagram.”
As you immerse yourself in the serenity of the masjid, surrendering your soul and yearning for it to take a shower. In your peripheral vision, you see a row of sisters take out their phones at the call of adhan, snapping every moment from the balcony.
Perhaps I just don’t get it. After all, it’s not for us to know what’s in the hearts of people. Perhaps such individuals genuinely want to capture memories? But surely there’s a fine line between capturing beautiful memories and living for your online persona?
Vanity metrics reign supreme in our culture. Consequently, a good berometer of when people have enjoyed living in the present moment and have enjoyed their company, is when they haven’t posted on social media all evening.
A significant indicator of our ability to live in the present moment is reflected in our connection with Allah during praise and remembrance. This can be assessed by our level of focus and mindfulness during dikr.
This article seeks to explore the act of mindfulness in Islam and escapism whilst enduring pain.
Escapism
Escapism, the antithesis of living in the present, has always fascinated me, particularly in recent months whilst contemplating on how that Palestinian teenager on my screen is managing to face his/her living reality.
If any of you are familiar with the works of our esteemed brother, Da’ee and creator of the Muslim Gamers League, Yusha Evans, you will recognise the profound challenges and adversities our brother has confronted in his life, about which he has spoken openly and candidly.
During Twitch’s gaming-centric era, I recall Brother Yusha imparting wisdom to his followers. He advised that amidst adversity, it can prove beneficial to envision a brighter future ahead.
This, in turn, is in stark contrast to numbing your mind with nonsensical garbage on Netflix for hours on end when your heart is hurting. Pain, whether numbed through narcotics or by being the loudest in the room, will only be drowned out temporarily. This will in turn, create more noise in your mind, as is supported by much research.
Brother Yusha’s words were imprinted in my mind. They prompted me to reflect on how our Palestinian brothers and sisters might envision Jannah during their most challenging moments, as Jannah is not just an abstract idea but a tangible reality awaiting us. Perhaps they imagine the rivers of wine they will drink from and contemplate the sensation of riding on the wings of angels?
It has been reported that a substantial amount of Palestinians are hafidh/hafidah, memorising the Qur’an from a very young age, thus deeply understanding the reality of Jannah. Consequently, surely escapism is over simplified and rather, in such excruciatingly painful and dire contexts, to envisage the future in a positive manner, serves as a powerful force for resilience and hope. For hope in Allah is an integral part of patience.
As Muslims, we frequently overlook the profound beauty and goodness inherent in the unseen world. Although we may not perceive angels with our physical senses, their existence is undoubtedly real and they surround us. When I think about that Palestinian teenager on my screen, I also think about the presence of angels, unseen yet steadfast companions in his/her journey.
Mindfulness in Islam
Mindfulness, known as al-muraqabah in Islam, denotes in its essence, the pinnacle of spiritual attainment for a believer. It entails a profound connection with one’s heart and mind, wholly immersed in the divine presence of Allah, free from the distractions of past, future, or worldly concerns. Mindful practitioners cultivate the art of quieting the inner dialogue, consistently refocusing their awareness on the sublime essence of the Almighty.
Al Ghazali’s Iḥyā’ Ulūm al-Dīn 1/142 reads:
Do not think the actions of the Prophet (ṣ) in all of his movements were without significance, rules, or procedures. Rather, all the preferred matters we have mentioned are habitually done in two or more ways, not because of one specific consensus, but rather a reason necessitating such procedure and giving it precedence. For to proceed neglectfully is like the disposition of animals, but the governance of movements by significant meanings is the disposition of the allies of Allah Almighty… We seek refuge in Allah that control of our movement and stillness be in the hands of devils by means of our whims.
Allah calls for the mindfulness of a believer 5 times a day. In order to connect with Him during his/her salah. Muslims must strive towards attaining khushoo- being present with Allah in our minds and hearts as well our bodies.
In addition, outside of salah, we are to be conscious of our actions. Most actions begin with our right hand or our right foot- this is to attain consciousness and because our book of good deeds will be presented to us in our right hands on the day of judgement.
The Prophet (saw) generally began all activities with his right hand.
Aisha RA reported:
The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, liked to begin on his right side when putting on his shoes, combing his hair, performing his ablution, and in all of his affairs. Source: Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī 166, Grade
