I am facing a problem these days. You are aware of the blasphemous film issue and certain related events of the past.
But when it comes to me and me alone, I don’t get emotional or enraged as a Muslim should have been on these serious issues. Apart from this, I don’t even feel any attachment to the name of Holy Prophet (SAW). I formally utter “Sallallahu Alaihi Wassalam” upon hearing the holy name but not from the core of my heart. And overall, I would say that I lack the love and affection for Holy Prophet (SAW)!
Owing to this I have started feeling that either I lack the true spirit of Imaan (faith) or may be I don’t even have Imaan.
I have never confessed this attitude before this anyone. Kindly let me know what is it that I’m lacking?
Answer
I agree that the mention of durud (prayer for elevating the status of the prophet) has become a mere formality and instead of helping to come close to love the prophet, alaihissalam, it at times becomes a barrier.
The prophet can be loved for two reasons: you have heard about him as a hero of your family, nation, and ummah or because you have realized that he is the messenger of God. The first reason is natural but religiously not significant. And if you don’t get that feeling for him, it’s not important. I mean, if I don’t have positive feelings for Jinnah or Iqbal, it’s not a serious issue for me.
The second reason for loving him will affect you when you will start realizing deep down in your heart that he is indeed the messenger of God. That realization can only come when you read the Quran with deep reflection and you study hadith and sirah in the light of it. If you read the Quran with an open mind and continue praying regularly, you’ll get the positive feeling of love for the prophet. And that feeling will be lasting, insha’Allah.