This book presents an elucidation of the supplication of Prophet Yunus (peace be upon him) by Shaykhul-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah (may Allah sanctify his soul). The query pertains to the statement of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) regarding the invocation of his brother Yunus: “None has the right to be worshipped save You; glory be to You, far removed are You from any imperfection; I have been amongst the wrong-doers.” It is affirmed that anyone facing difficulty, upon employing this supplication, will find relief from their predicament.
- The essence of this supplication lies in acknowledging the unique and absolute worship due to Allah alone, along with extolling His perfection and purity. It also incorporates a confession of wrongdoing, acknowledging one’s imperfections. Through this supplication, the supplicant admits their limitations and seeks Allah’s mercy and assistance.
- While explicit unstated conditions are not delineated, sincere intention, humility, and genuine faith are inherent prerequisites for the supplication’s efficacy.
- The relationship between belief in the heart and the supplication’s meaning is intertwined. The supplication underscores the importance of acknowledging one’s transgressions and seeking forgiveness. A heart deeply connected to this meaning is more likely to be receptive to divine help.
- The explicit confession of having been amongst the wrongdoers serves to accentuate the significance of humility and repentance. While belief in tawhid inherently leads to relief, genuine repentance, coupled with the firm resolution to abstain from sin, amplifies its effectiveness.
- The difficulty is alleviated when a person wholly surrenders their hopes, reliance, and dependence on creation, recognizing Allah as the ultimate source of aid and support.
- The heart’s transition from relying on creation to placing its hope entirely in Allah necessitates deep spiritual transformation. This shift can be fostered through self-awareness, knowledge of Allah’s attributes, and consistent remembrance.
- Methods aiding the heart’s transformation include increasing knowledge of Allah’s names and attributes, reflecting on His blessings and past instances of divine assistance, and fostering a genuine connection through acts of worship and supplication.
The book serves as a comprehensive guide to understanding the profound supplication of Prophet Yunus, its implications, and the conditions that amplify its efficacy. Shaykhul-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah’s insights shed light on the intricate interplay between faith, humility, repentance, and hope, culminating in a deeper connection with Allah and the potential relief from difficulties.
