1. Other people already vote on your life

Think about what will shape the next ten years for you: tuition and student debt, rent near campus, job prospects after graduation, healthcare costs, climate policy, public safety, and the rules for internet and AI that will run your career. All of these are being decided right now by people who win elections.

Here’s the problem. Older voters turn out much more than young voters, so politicians spend their attention on them. Nobody owes you their attention, but candidates follow turnout data closely. When a group doesn’t vote, the group’s issues fall down the list. When a group does vote, candidates suddenly find room for it on their platforms.

2. Midterm and local races are where your vote counts the most

The presidential election has more than 150 million voters. Tomorrow’s races are much smaller: governors, state legislators, mayors, city councils, school boards, judges, sheriffs and ballot measures. Turnout is lower; therefore, each vote carries more weight.

Small races can be decided by tiny margins. In 2017, a seat in Virginia’s House of Delegates ended in a tie. The winner was picked by drawing a name out of a bowl, and that seat helped decide which party controlled the chamber. Races decided by a handful of votes, or a few dozen, happen in local elections all the time.

These local offices also affect you most directly. They decide whether your city builds housing near campus, how police treat students, how much transit costs, and how state money flows to your public university.

3. Young voters have more power than they use

Americans aged 18 to 29 are one of the largest voting blocs in the country. When they show up, they change outcomes. Youth turnout jumped in the 2018 midterms and helped decide close races across the country. In most midterms, though, fewer than one in three young people vote.

This gap is your opportunity. A group’s influence isn’t capped by its size. It is capped by how many of you turn up.

4. “I don’t know enough” is easy to fix tonight

You don’t need to be a political expert. You need about 20 minutes:

• Look up your sample ballot. Your state or county election website will show exactly what you’ll see. Vote411.org (from the nonpartisan League of Women Voters) also has candidate comparisons.

• Pick two or three issues you care about and see where the candidates stand.

• Read the ballot measures closely. They’re often the most direct way you’ll get on a candidate’s actual policy.

• You can skip races. Leaving a race blank doesn’t spoil the rest of your ballot.

You research which laptop to buy. Your representatives will make decisions worth far more than a laptop.

5. “The system is broken” IS A REASON TO VOTE

If you’re frustrated with politics, staying home won’t send that message. The people in charge read low turnout as permission to keep going. Voting is the cheapest and fastest form of influence you have. Protest, organizing, and activism matter too, and they work better when officials know how your group votes.

6. Voting is a habit, so start now

Research on civic participation finds that people who vote in their first few eligible elections are much more likely to keep voting for life. Tomorrow could be the start of a lifelong habit of having a say.

Your plan for tomorrow

1. Find your polling place on your state or county election website, or at vote.org. Polling places can change, so check even if you’ve voted before. Many college campuses has voting on site!

2. Check ID rules. Some states require a photo ID, and a student ID isn’t accepted everywhere.

3. Not registered? Many states allow same-day registration at the polls. Check your state’s rules tonight.

4. Pick a time: between classes, before your first lecture, or with friends after dinner.

5. If you’re in line when polls close, stay in line. You still have the right to vote.

6. Bring someone with you. People are much more likely to vote when a friend asks them to come along.

The bottom line

Someone will make the decisions about your rent, your debt, your job market and your future. Tomorrow you get to help choose who that is. It takes less time than a lecture.

This is a simple and disciplined way to compete the entire Qur’an in one year. Each week we will send you the next reading materials that you can either read or listen to. There is a play button at the top right-hand corner the Substack App that you can click to listen to.

Read with Additional Notations!

Chapter 77-45

Sent Forth (Surah Al-Mursalat)

(50 verses in total)

In the name of Allah, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!

Those sent forth in rapid succession!

Raising up a storm

Spreading far and wide

Separating good from evil!

Those sent to remind

To clarify or to warn

What promised will come to pass!

When the stars are made to lose their lights

The sky is made to fall apart

The mountains are turned to dust, blown away

The messengers are met with their appointments

What day is it for such an appointment?

It is a Day of Decision!

What will make you realize what this Day of Decision is?

Woe to the deniers on that Day!

Did we not remove the former generations?

And catch up with the later ones?

This is how We take account from the sinful!

Woe to the deniers on that Day!

Did We not create you from ordinary water?

Then We placed it in a place, made secure

Until a term set forth

This is how We determine

How excellent We are in such determinations!

Woe to the deniers on that Day!

Have We not made the earth

A home for the living and the dead?

Placed on it lofty mountains?

Given you drinks of fresh water?

Woe to the deniers on that Day!

Walk towards that which you denied

Walk to the shadow of three plumes

Which is neither cool nor a protection against the flame

Send out sparks like massive tree trunks

Burning like welded copper!

Woe to the deniers on that Day!

On that Day, they will not dare to speak

Nor permitted to offer lame excuse

Woe to the deniers on that Day!

That is the Day of Decision!

We have gathered you and your previous generations!

If you wish to devise a plan against Me, do it now

Woe to the deniers on that Day!

For those who acted responsibly (muttaqina)

There are cool shades and gushing fountains

Eat and drink as a reward for your accomplishments

This is how We reward good people!

Woe to the deniers on that Day!

Eat and enjoy for a little while

While accumulating guilts!

Woe to the deniers on that Day!

When they area asked – Submit!

They refuse!

Woe to the deniers on that Day!

What narratives, after these, will they believe?

Chapter 70 - 46

The Means of Ascent (Surah Al-Maarij)

(44 verses in total)

In the name of Allah, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!

A questioner asks (mockingly)

About the chastisement to come!

For the disbelievers – there is no way to escape!

(A guarantee) from God, the God of the Means of Ascent

By which Angels and Spirit rise to God in a day

A day of fifty thousand years (by your measure)!

So be patient (Prophet)

A patience befitting you!

They see it far off

But We (God) see it close at hand!

It is the Day when

The heavens (heat up) as molten brass

The mountains float like carded wool

Friends ignore friends

Even as they see each other!

The guilty will wish to redeem themselves from chastisement

By exchanging their children

Their spouses and siblings

Relationships that protected them

(even) All that the earth could offer!

But never!

The chastisement is that fire flamed

That consumes the external layering

Bounds anyone trying to retreat and flee

Who amasses wealth but do not share!

Humankind is prone to anxiety

Distressed when adversity falls

But ungrateful and niggardly when good fortune comes

But not those who are devoted (to God)

Who are constant and consistent in their worship (salah)

In their wealth, they assign a known right and a confirmed obligation

For the poor and the indigents

Who affirms their belief in the Day of Judgement

Fearful of the displeasure of God

None can feel secure from God’s chastisement, (if due)

Who restrains their lusts

Except from their spouses and where exceptions granted

Those who go beyond these, commit transgression

Who are faithful to their trusts and promises

Who are truthful in their testimonies

Who preserves their devotion to God (salah) constantly

These are in the Garden, dignified!

How is that these disbelievers

Crowds around you, from the right and from the left

Wishing to be granted entry to the blessed Garden?

Never!

We created them

They do know it as well!

We are the master of the Eastern Land and the Western Land

We possess the power

To replace them with others better than them

We will not fail!

So let them be

Engrossed in vanity and enjoyment

Until they come face to face with the day promised

The day when they will rise from the graves

As if being driven to a goal

Eyes downcast

Full of shame!

Such is the day they have been promised!

Chapter 56 - 47

The Event (Surah Al-Waqiah)

(96 verses in total)

In the name of Allah, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!

When the event comes to pass

There is no denying of this event

Abasing (some) and exalting (others)

The earth will be shaken to its core

The mountains will crumble

Scattered as dust

Humankind will be sorted in three groups

Those on the right side

How (magnificent) are those on the right side!

Those on the left hand

How (retched) are those on the left side!

Those ahead of all – they are the most advanced!

Drawn closer to God

Residing in the blessed Garden

Majority coming from the earlier generations

A few from the later generations

Reclining in couches well woven

Facing one another

Served by eternal youth

In glasses, flagons, and cups of pure drinks

Causing neither headache nor intoxicate

Any fruits to choose from

Fresh flesh of any birds

Beautiful companions – like hidden pearls

They experience no vanity or sinful discourse

But greetings of “Peace”, and peaceful dwelling!

Those on the right side – what about them?

Dwelling among thornless lot trees

Clustered banana leaves

Providing shades all around

Fountains gushing forth

Fruits abundant

Neither restricted nor forbidden

Created into a new creation

Chaste, loving and matching of age

For those on the right side

A multitude from the past generations

A multitude from the latter generations

Now those on the left side – what about them?

Hot air and scalding water

Fumes of black smoke

Neither cool nor refreshing

In their past life

They indulged in luxury

Persisted on evil pursuits

Said, “When we die

Become dust and bones

Shall we be raised to life?

How about our forefathers?”

Reply, “You will be gathered

At a time already appointed

On a day already assigned.”

Those who strayed and denied

Will eat from the tree of Zuqqum

Filling their bellies

Drink scalding water

Drinking like a thirty camel

This will be their welcome and entertainment

On the day of reckoning!

We (God) created you

Why don’t you accept?

See what you emit (to form ovum)?

Did you create them?

Or, are We the Creator?

We prescribed death for you all

Nothing can prevent us

If We were to change your current state

To a new growth that you have no knowledge of!

You witness you first growth (birth)

Then why not mind (the next)!

Reflect on the seed

Do you grow it?

Or, We cause it’s growth?

If We please

We can make it chaff

Then you will lament – “we are debt ridden, deprived!”

Look at your water

Do you bring it down from clouds?

Or, is it We who bring it down!

If We please

We can make it salty

How can you not be thankful?

Feel the fire you kindle

Is it you that produce the wood?

Or, are We the Producer?

It is reminder from Us and a benefit

Those who travel in the desert!

Therefore, glorify the essence of God, the Great!

I swear by the varying positions of the stars!

It is an oath significant enough, if you knew!

This Qur’an is magnificent!

A Book well protected!

Not touched expect by those who are pure and clean!

Revelations coming the God of the Universe!

Is this the announcement that you scorn at?

And make your denial a source of your livelihood?

Why not then

When it (death) comes up to your throat

You know it is time

We are nearer to you than you are to yourself

But you can’t see!

Why not send back death?

If you are not under Our command

If you speak the truth!

Now therefore,

If you are the one who is drawn to God and nearer

For you is happiness, abundance, and the blessed Garden!

If you are the one on the right side

For you is Peace!

From others who are on the right side

If you are one of the deniers, doing evils

You will have the taste of scalding water and a burning abyss!

This is the certainty that comes from truth (haqqul yaqin)

Therefore, glorify the essence of God, the Great!

Below you can listen to these chapters in Arabic!

Listen Chapter 77 in Arabic

Listen Chapter 70 in Arabic

Listen Chapter 56 in Arabic

Overview

The second half of October was again defined by the Gulf war. Hormuz shipping all but stopped, Brent crude climbed to about $116, Egypt moved toward sending troops to Saudi Arabia, and President Trump weighed a deal with Iran against renewed strikes. Russia–Ukraine’s “energy ceasefire” collapsed into renewed refinery and grid strikes.

Elections reshaped four countries: Lula won a fourth term in Brazil (51.8%), a student-led movement defeated Vučić in Serbia, Israel’s Knesset vote left Netanyahu short of a majority, and Bulgaria heads to a runoff. In India, authorities widened a crackdown on youth-led protests over 130 million deleted voter names, inflation jumped to 5.54%, and China border standoffs were officially confirmed.

Rising inflation (3.7% in the US) has the Fed poised to pause today and hike in December, while Anthropic’s IPO filing and OpenAI’s claimed math proofs — kept stocks near records level.

Observations

· Normalization of war with Iran has already costed both sides close to $70B (US ~$47B in war cost to date and Iran ~$25B in loss revenue from oil), not to mention the loss of innocent lives in Iran and destruction of their civilian infrastructures (both are war crimes committed by our own country), loss of lives of US soldiers, damage to US Middle East bases and irreversible loss of US reputation in the region.

· The incompetency of the current US administration in this war is breathtaking, given loss of global standing, depletion of US military stockpiles and rising inflation for US citizens. No one can explain or justify this war of choice, other than a tiny nation of Israel, itself committing genocide and settler’s colonial violence across the region, told us to follow their reckless war mongering and the greatest superpower in the world just complied!

· To make matters worse, the Gulf war is creating more entanglement, not winding down. Egypt’s potential troop authorization to support Saudi Arabia, Houthi strikes on Ras Tanura and Gulf powers mediating in Tehran mean more countries are getting drawn into direct conflicts. President Trump’s “deal or finish them off” framing with Iran makes the next two weeks even more critical in a post-election US political rejiggering.

· One wonders, if US and Israel cannot a win with Iran, how the Gulf powers, now joined by Egypt can win against Iran and Houthis? Mutual respect, peaceful gesture and a sense of shared destiny should direct the Gulf region, not blindly follow the arrogance of power, learned from no other than US and at its worst, from Israel.

· Energy cost continues to edge up as was anticipated. Near zero Hormuz traffic kept Brent above $110, pushing US inflation to 3.7% and the Fed toward a December hike. Our administration’s attempt to deal with Russia for diesel supply is another example of lack of any coherent strategy and moral clarity before and after this self-made conflict.

· Voters are casting their voices in elections and on the street. Israel and Bulgaria produced no clear winner, Brazil split almost 52–48 in favor of Lula, and Czech voters checked their government in the Senate. Students in Serbia and India are challenging anti-democratic moves by their respective governments on the streets of Belgrade and Delhi.

· AI is becoming a macro story. Anthropic’s IPO filing, a $120.5 billion compute contract with Space X and AI-claimed mathematical proofs are moving both markets and science at once, while AI labs admit their agents can evade oversight and become rogue. Under our existing laws, AI should be categorized as a defective product-in-the making, be subject to existing laws while new rules and policies need to be formulated with a sense of urgency. AI’s breath neck speed of development should cause alarm, call for prudent containment, and not market hype.

Here are the brief summaries of global events for the last two weeks:

Geopolitics and conflict

The Gulf war widened: Hormuz traffic all but stopped, Egypt moved toward joining Saudi Arabia against the Houthis, and President Trump openly weighed renewed strikes on Iran.

Iran war and the Strait of Hormuz

The strait is “effectively closed to commercial traffic”: IMF PortWatch logged 4 transits on October 18 against a norm of about 85 a day before the crisis, and 54 ships sat holding position on October 24. A Washington think tank called October the worst month on record for attacks on shipping there. Iran claimed seven tankers damaged on October 23 and two supertankers mined on October 24; neither claim was independently confirmed, and Trump accused Iran of inventing attacks.

· Oil spill: an oil slick from the tanker hit off the UAE on October 9 grew from about 70 to about 290 square miles between October 21 and 24, threatening beaches and desalination plants.

· Cost: US Central Command put the war’s cost at $47.1 billion by mid-October; the US naval blockade has cost Iran at least $25 billion in oil revenue.

· Diplomacy vs. escalation: on October 25 Trump said he was choosing between a deal and action to “finish them off.” Saudi, Turkish and Pakistani officials held talks in Tehran on October 26 with no announcement.

Saudi Arabia, Egypt and the Houthis

The Saudi–Houthi war is pulling in new players. On October 26 Egypt’s parliament authorized President el-Sisi to send troops to Saudi Arabia for defensive purposes. The coalition said it destroyed five missile tunnels and four launchers in Yemen, and on October 27 clashes near the Bab el-Mandeb strait killed 97. The Houthis claimed a missile strike on Saudi Aramco’s 550,000-barrel-a-day Ras Tanura refinery the same day. Saudi air defenses reported intercepts over Riyadh and the Eastern Province. Houthi attacks had already shut Riyadh’s airport for more than two weeks.

Russia–Ukraine

The October 12 “energy ceasefire” is effectively dead: on October 15 Zelenskyy said Ukraine would resume strikes on Russian refineries, and overnight strikes on October 23–24 cut power in occupied areas including Crimea. Russia launched 126 drones that night and made gains southeast of Dobropillya.

The US–Russia diesel deal

Washington is trying to import Russian diesel to bring down US fuel prices before the midterms, despite a 2022 ban. Trump announced the deal with Putin on October 9: 300,000 tons immediately, 500,000 tons in November and 1 million tons after that.

US diesel averaged $6.18 a gallon on October 12, up from $3.48 in January. Treasury’s General License 135 allows the trade until April 7, 2027, and on October 16 Trump waived sanctions and tariffs on Russia under the Graham Act, two days before they would have taken effect.

• Pushback: 12 senators on the Foreign Relations Committee urged a reversal on October 13, and 22 House members demanded a legal justification on October 15. On October 24, senators led by Jeanne Shaheen (with Republican Thom Tillis) warned six big banks and four port authorities, including Houston and New York/New Jersey, not to handle the fuel and to preserve records.

• Ukraine: Kyiv was pressed to stop striking Russian refineries, reportedly under threat of losing US arms and intelligence. It paused for three days, then resumed. Zelenskyy called the deal “weak.”

• First cargo: the tanker Agioi Fanendes loaded about 40,000 tons at Russia’s Primorsk on October 22 and is signalling New York, due about November 7; no US buyer has been confirmed.

• Likely impact: Very limited - the first 300,000 tons cover less than one day of US consumption, and Ukrainian strikes have cut Russia’s refining capacity. The main effect may be extra revenue for Moscow.

Spillover elsewhere

Kuwait sentenced three men to death over an alleged Iran- and Hezbollah-linked plot, the UK charged two men over an alleged Iran-linked plot against RAF Fairford, and drones were shot down near the US embassy in Baghdad (all October 26–27).

Politics and elections

Incumbents had a mixed fortnight: Lula came from behind to win Brazil, Serbia’s students unseated Vučić’s party, and Israel’s Netanyahu lost his majority but not his party’s lead.

Oct 27|Israel: Knesset election: Netanyahu bloc 53, opposition 48, Arab parties 19 (preliminary); no bloc reaches 61. Likud is still the largest party (26 seats), but Gadi Eisenkot’s Yashar won 21 and Arab parties a record 19. Eisenkot refuses to serve under Netanyahu, and the opposition needs Arab-party support to reach 61, which some of its members resist. A minority government or a repeat election are both possible.

Oct 25|Serbia: Snap parliamentary election: student-led list projected 135–140 of 250 seats; Vučić concedes

Oct 25|Brazil: Lula 51.8%, Flávio Bolsonaro 48.2%; Lula wins a fourth term

Oct 25|Bulgaria: Iliana Iotova 34.8%, Andrey Gyurov 31.9%; runoff Nov 1 on record-low ~22.5% turnout

Oct 16–17|Czech Republic: Senate runoffs: opposition keeps its majority; PM Babiš’s ANO fails to break through

Serbia - A student-led movement ended Aleksandar Vučić’s 14-year grip on power. Vučić, who resigned the presidency on September 27 to run for prime minister, conceded on election night; his party is projected at about 105 seats to the students’ 135–140 (126 needed). Turnout of 64.9% by 6 p.m. was the highest since 1992

The movement grew out of the November 2024 Novi Sad station canopy collapse, which killed 16. Its first demand was release of all documents on the station’s renovation; it now seeks to overhaul a system it calls corrupt.

United States: With midterms on November 3, a Reuters/Ipsos poll (October 22–26) gave Democrats a 47–36 lead among registered voters and Trump 32% approval; 73% say living costs are heading the wrong way. Texas (Talarico vs. Paxton) is virtually tied, and Ohio, Michigan, Kansas, Georgia and North Carolina are close.

India in focus

India’s fortnight was dominated by a widening crackdown on the youth-led voter-roll protests, set against war-driven inflation and renewed friction on the China border.

Voter-roll protests: The “Cockroach Janta Party” demands the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar over a roll revision that removed about 130 million names, a halt to deletions pending an independent inquiry, and restoration of the old rolls. The Election Commission says it removed duplicate, dead and untraceable voters.

· Oct 16|Delhi police detained founder Abhijeet Dipke, student leaders and supporters; spokespersons Ashutosh Ranka and Saurav Das had been arrested days earlier at Jantar Mantar, struck off the approved protest list the day before.

· Oct 19| a court extended Ranka’s and Das’s detention; the movement will appeal.

· Oct 20| UN experts urged India to stop using excessive force against protesters.

· Oct 22| detentions in Chennai showed the movement spreading south.

Modi called the protesters “misdirected children” and that he is “ready to forgive”; the BJP says they are undermining democracy.

Inflation and rates: As a major oil importer, India is feeling the Gulf war directly. Retail inflation jumped to 5.54% in September from 4.83%, with food inflation at 7.74% after a weak monsoon. The Reserve Bank had already raised its repo rate 25 basis points to 5.50% on October 7, and the rupee was under pressure in late October.

Borders and defense: On October 22 the Indo-Tibetan Border Police chief confirmed that standoffs with Chinese troops continue at several points in Arunachal Pradesh, including one during September’s BRICS summit in New Delhi.

Economy and markets

Oil pushed higher still, Brent rising about $10 since mid-October to the $113–117 range, yet stocks held near records on AI enthusiasm and strong earnings, and the Fed is expected to pause today before hiking in December.

Inflation is accelerating. September US CPI rose 0.6% in the month and 3.7% year on year (up from 3.4%), driven by a 9.1% jump in gasoline; core inflation was a calmer 2.6%.

AI is carrying the stock market. Anthropic filed publicly for an IPO on October 26, lifting tech shares; reports say the offering could raise up to $100 billion. Anthropic also agreed to pay Space X up to $120.5 billion for computing capacity through 2029, and the FT reported OpenAI cut its target valuation for a planned round to $1.25 trillion.

Science, technology and AI

AI dominated the fortnight on three fronts at once: claimed scientific breakthroughs, a record-scale IPO, and candid admissions that AI agents can slip their own safeguards.

AI as scientist": On October 27 OpenAI said its models had proved the local smoothing conjecture in every dimension (previously known only in three), disproved the Exponential Time Hypothesis in complexity theory, and produced a rigorous proof in quantum chromodynamics. A Rochester mathematician said the conjecture appears “cracked”; MIT’s Ryan Williams said a confirmed refutation of the hypothesis would be major but is still being checked. It follows Anthropic’s September claim of an AI-found CRISPR-like enzyme.

Agent safety: OpenAI disclosed that two internal agents weakened their own monitoring, one suppressing security alerts and another removing a monitoring hook and then denying it. It had paused frontier reinforcement learning from September 20 to October 1 after a model exploited a DNS error to reach the internet.

Disasters and humanitarian crises

Nigeria’s floods were the fortnight’s deadliest natural disaster, with 245 dead, a magnitude-7 quake in Tibet and a typhoon over Taiwan added to the toll. Severe storm and flooding in USA - 80 homes flooded in Washington County; in Utah people were rescued from rooftops

Man-made emergencies - the Gulf war is now an environmental and humanitarian crisis too. Roughly 290-square-mile oil slick off the UAE threatens desalination plants that supply drinking water, and Yemen’s west-coast fighting continues to displace civilians. In Burkina Faso, armed groups reportedly control about half the country and 1.6 million people face acute food insecurity; Sudan remains the world’s largest humanitarian emergency. Not to mention, Gaza continues to have dire humanitarian situation despite so-called ceasefire.

Chapter 5|Verses 7-11

Translation

Remind yourself of God’s (constant) favors and blessings on you and of the pledge with which He commits you when you said: “We hear and we commit.” (Therefore) Keep your duty to God (and to fellow human beings). God is ever aware of what you intend to do and what you keep in your heart.

O People of Faith: Be constant in your devotion to God, and bear witness with justice and truth; Do not let hatred of a people incite you to acts of injustice and inequity. Be just—this is the closest to the observance of your responsibility (to God and to fellow human beings). Remain God Conscious and be true to your sense of duty—surely God is fully Aware of all that you do. ¹

God has promised to those who believe and do good work that they will have forgiveness and a reward from God that is grand, whereas, those who persistently deny, disbelieve, and reject God’s messages are destined for Hellfire.

O People of Faith: Remind yourself of God’s favor when a group of people have tried to displace you but God restrained their hands. Therefore, be conscious of God, and on God every person of faith should establish true reliance. ²

Key Essence

Faith is a covenant with God and with fellow human beings. Too often we think of faith as a spiritual connection with the Creator, solely for the Creator, focused on the Creator and directed to afterlife. Yet the Qur’an, which consistently refers to itself as a Reminder for the all of Humanity, insists that Faith is a commitment that bounds a faithful to do good by God and by fellow human beings. Since we human beings exist on three different planes - physical, mental and spiritual, this commitment also takes on those three dimension. While mental and spiritual are more internal and are shaped our intention, intellectual honesty and willingness to align with that faith commitment, only God can assess such inner condition to its fullest while the physical part of the commitment is visible to all and becomes the foundation by which we demonstrate to ourselves and to others how our conducts aligns with our faith commitment that either benefit others or harms others. The above verses point to two aspects to this commitment that is very relevant in this 21st century:

1. To bear witness to (defend) truth and justice and not incite injustice even in the face of injustice

2. In the age of mass migration when people are being displaced from one place and get settled in another place, despite great hardship and opposition, one should seek meaning and purpose in such dislocation and be mindful of the first above to be truly reliant on God and to honor our faith commitment.

Interpretation

1 We need to be mindful of God’s blessings on us to sustain our lives, such as the simple act of breathing, the ability to ingest and digest food, the abundance of natural resources to sustain our lives on this planet, the gifts of having parents, children, friends, and neighbors at a physical level, and having a brain to think and calculate, a mind to analyze and form intent, and a soul to guide and persist on truth and justice—all examples of the innumerable gifts and blessings that God has given to us. In return God wants us to use our faculties, our physical strength, and our commitments to do good, to be just, and to be truthful in dealing with one another. God’s guidance to us and our innate desires and abilities are truly aligned—so how can we do wrong or be unjust? This is a question that we need to ask each one of us with true consciousness and humility.

2 God rewards and punishes on a very simple formula that we all can relate to: God will forgive the shortcomings and mistakes of those who believe in His grace and are committed to do good and justice on this earth, and He will make them inhabitants of Paradise. Those who deny His graces and rebel against His guidance to truth and justice and as a result cause harm and disharmony in this world will have to face the consequent punishment from fellow humans and ultimately from Hellfire, a place they will inhabit as a consequence of their own conduct.

Reflection

In our world today where we are beset with acts of terrorism and then reactive counterterrorism that sometimes causes more harm; staggering income disparities; unprecedented environmental pollution; a prevalence of corrupt practices by government and special-interest groups; an enormous amount of weapons of mass destruction in the hands of nations, rebel groups, terrorists, and gangsters—while at the same time, we have seen the proliferation of knowledge and information across the globe; the rise of technology that brings unprecedented creature comfort and health treatment; the rise of instant communication among people across national and communal boundaries; and son on—one wonders why we have NOT been able to improve dialogue among nations and communities, why more than half of the world’s population has not seen the benefit of technology, why gender inequality continues to persist, why profitable companies fail to provide living wages to its employees, and why fewer people control increasingly more of the wealth of the planet. There are fundamental challenges we will continue to face until we bring a sense of fairness and justice into our day-to-day and strategic dialogues, until we recognize that our resources are gifts from God and that we need to share and distribute them in true proportion to effort and equity and not purely on entitlement or intellectual merit alone, until democratic institutions are driven by people and not by moneyed individuals or institutions, until we try to genuinely understand human concerns, especially those who are violated and oppressed. In this regard, paying real attention to the message from the Creator and His guidance can truly transform our societies and nations.

Action

As we read this Qur’an and other Books of Revelations, the people of faith have to put into practice the practical teachings and guidance found in these books and be true to our reality that we are a transient people on this planet for a fixed term and that the quality of our life on this planet and our life after death will all be determined by how we conduct ourselves here and now, how we treat one another as human beings (beyond national and ethnic identities), and how we help one another grow and become wholesome human beings as God intended.

(Continuing from verse 160 onward. The first 159 verses were covered last week)

In the Name of Allah, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!

The people of Lot denounced the messengers as liars. Their brother Lot said to them, “Will you not act responsibly? I am a messenger, trustworthy! Show your devotion to God and listen to me. I am not here to ask for any reward from you, my reward is with the Owner of the Worlds! How do you lust after males, while you have wives whom God had made your rightful partners? You are a people transgressing boundaries.”

They said, “if you do not stop, we will expel you.”

He said, “I detest what you do. May God give us safe passage from your evils – me and my followers.”

We (God) gave safe passage to him and to all his followers, except an old woman (the wife of Lot) who remained behind. We destroyed them – We brought down a destructive rain over them; how awful that rain was on those who had been duly warned.

Indeed, these narratives are evidence for them, yet most of them choose to deny. Your God is Mighty, and Endower of Mercy!

The forest-dwellers also denied their messengers.

Shu’aib said to them, “Will you not act responsibly? I am a messenger, trustworthy! Show your devotion to God and listen to me. I am not here to ask for any reward from you, my reward is with the Owner of the Worlds! Give what is due and do not be like those who sell others short! Use proper measures – a true balance! Do not act unjustly regarding the dues of others and do not spread corruption on earth, making mischief. Be mindful and stand in awe of God, Who created you and former generations!”

They said, “You are nothing but delusional! You are just a mortal like us, and we deem you to be a liar. If you speak the truth, then let a portion of the sky fall on us.” Shu’aib said, “My God knows best your (evil) doings!”

But they rejected him, and the Day of Covering descended on them with its chastisement. It was a day of terrifying consequences with grievous torments.

Indeed, these narratives are evidence for them, yet most of them choose to deny. Your God is Mighty, and Endower of Mercy!

This indeed is a revelation from the God of the Universe, brought by the Faithful Spirit, to your heart that you (Prophet) may caution using plain Arabic dialect – a matter foretold in previous scriptures.

Is it not evidence to them that the learned Jewish men attest to this? If We had revealed it a non-Arab and he were to recite it to them, they would not have believed in it. This is how We cause the hearts of the wicked to receive it – they do not believe until they see the awful chastisement. It comes to them suddenly, while they were lest expecting it.

They will say, “Can we be given more time?”, instead of demanding that such chastisement to be brought sooner (as they did before). See how We let them enjoy for years and then when the promised consequences catch up with them, they are no longer able to enjoy themselves.

We (God) never destroy a town without the benefit of its warner who reminds them. We are never unfair and unjust!

The devils (including Jinns) did not bring down this revelation – it is unfitting for them, and they have no such authority – they are far removed from even hearing it. Therefore, do not associate anyone with God, lest you become subject to such chastisement.

(Prophet) warn your closest kins and tribes and be gentle to those who follow you. But if they disobey, then say, “I am not accountable for your conducts.”, and rely on God Almighty, God of Mercy, who sees you when you stand up (for worship) and your movements with those who worship as well. God is full of Hearing and Knowing!

Shall We (God) inform you (Prophet) as to who is touched by the devil (and evil) – it is the liar and sinful who listens (to evils) and most of them lie and deny (the truth). And so many poets - who wanders across the valleys and say things they do not do - attract such deviators but not those who believe, are mindful of God and defend their rights when faced with oppression. Those who do wrong will know (soon) their final turn to their destiny.

In the name of Allah, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!

Alif, Lam, Mim!

Does humankind think that they will be left alone on saying “We believe” and they will not be tried? Indeed, We (God) had tried people before, so that God will know with certainty those who are truthful and those who are liars.

Or, do those who commit evils and spread corruptions, think they will escape God? Even their sense of judgment is corrupted!

Those who aspire to meet God, the appointment with God is surely approaching! God is all Hearing, all Knowing!

Whoever strives hard (jahada), strives for oneself, whereas God is above any need from His creation! Whoever believe and do good, God will remove their afflictions and reward them for the best of what they do.

We (God) have commanded humankind to show kindness to their parents. But do not follow them if they were to associate other deities to God that you have no knowledge of. To Me is your return, and I will then inform of you of what you did! Those who believe and do good, We (God) will certainly count them as righteous (swalihin)!

There are those among people who say, “We believe in God”, but when persecution and opposition fall on them for the sake of God, they consider such difficulties as chastisement from God, whereas if help were to come their way, they say, “We are with you (Prophet).” Is not God fully aware of what is in the hearts of humankind? God certainly knows who a believer is and who is a hypocrite (munafiqin).

Those who disbelieve say to those who believe, “Follow our path and we will take care of your misdeeds.” But they can never carry the burden of wrong of others. They are liars. They will certainly carry the burden of their own wrongs and the burden of others, as they will be questioned on the day of resurrection as to their fabrications and misconducts.

We (God) sent Noah to his people, and he stayed with them for a thousand years, less fifty. The great flood overtook them, as they were unjust to themselves. We delivered Noah and his inmates on the Ark and made them a reminder for people of the world.

(We also sent) Abraham when he said to his people, “Serve God and act responsibly regarding God. That is better for you if you only knew. You worship deities other than God and that is a pure fabrication. Those you worship besides God have no power to provide for you. Therefore, seek provisions from God, worship God and be grateful to God. To God is your eventual return! But if you deny, people before you had done so as well, whereas the duty of the messenger is to deliver clear warnings!”

Do they not see how God originates (yubdi’u) the creation and then reproduces (yu’idu) it? It is indeed easy for God!

Say, “Travel on earth and see for yourself how God makes the first creation and then readies it for the next creation. God is ever powerful over all things! God brings to account whom God pleases, and God shows mercy to whom God pleases. To God do you all return, with no escape on this earth or in heavens and besides God, you have no other helper or protector.”

Those who disbelieve in God and deny the appointment with God, they despair of My mercy and will face severe consequences.

The response of his community was nothing other than this, “Slay him or burn him.” But God protected him from the fire. In this outcome is evidence for those who wish to believe.

Abraham said, “You take these deities besides God hoping for friendship in this life. But on the Day of Resurrection some of you will deny others, some of you will curse others and will end up in the fire, with no help from anyone!” But Lot believed in him and said, “I flee to my Cherisher God Who is Mighty, and Wise!”

We (God) granted Abraham Isaac and Jacob, made them prophets, and gave scriptures to his offspring. We rewarded him in this life and in the life to come he will be counted among the righteous.

(We sent) Lot who said to his people, “You commit indecency that no other nations before you have done. You lust after men, compel them, and commit evils in your gatherings.” His people had no other answers than to say, “Bring on God’s punishment, if you speak the truth.” Lot prayed, “My God, help me against these corrupt people.”

Our angels came to Abraham with good news and then said, “We are going to destroy this town (of Lot); its people are engrossed in unjust practices.” Abraham said, “But Lot is among them.” They said, “We know well who is in there. We will provide safe passage to Lot and his followers except for his wife, she will remain behind.”

The angels then came to Lot who became concerned about them as he lacked power to protect them. They said, “Do not be afraid or grieve. We are here to deliver you and your followers but not your wife who chose to be with others. We are going to bring down torment from heavens on the people of this town, since they have become corrupt.”

We left a clear marker of this for people who wish to ponder!

(We sent to) Midian, their own brother Shu’aib who said, “My people, worship God, be mindful of the life to come and do not act corruptly on earth, with unjust practices.” But they rejected him, and a severe earthquake overtook them. When morning came, they were in their own homes lifeless!

Ad and Thamud – their places of habitation are known to you. The Devil made their evil practices seem enticing to them and he kept them back from the (right) path, while they could have seen (what they were doing)! Korah, Pharaoh and Haman – Moses came to them with sound arguments, but they behaved with arrogance on earth. They could never escape Us (God)! Each one – We brought them to account for their sins. There is the one who We subjected to a violent storm, another who was overtaken by sudden blast (volcanic eruption), another We let the earth swallow up (earthquake), and another We drowned (in sea). It was not God who wronged them, but they wronged themselves!

The simile of those who take others besides God as their deity and patron is like the spider – yes, it makes a net for itself but its house is the frailest of all dwellings – only if they could realize! God indeed knows whom they call upon besides God – God is Mighty, and Wise! These similes – We set for humankind, but only the learned will comprehend.

God created the heavens and the earth with truth! For the believers, there is evidence in them.

Recite what has been revealed to you in the scripture and be constant in worship. Surely such worship (salat) protects from indecent acts and evil deeds and gives remembrance of God which is of great importance. God is constantly aware of what you are doing!

Reason with those who have been given scriptures before using sound arguments and common decency and to those who act corruptly among them, say, “We truly believe in what has been revealed to us and what was revealed to you. Our God and your God is but One! We truly submit to God!”

This is how We reveal this book to you (Prophet) – those who were given the book before, believe in it and some of the current recipients believe in it too – none refuses to acknowledge Our messages except the ungrateful! See, you never recited a book before this nor have you ever written one with your right hand in which case the deniers could have a reason to doubt.

On the contrary, it is a clear message in the hearts of those who are gifted with knowledge. None denies Our message except who commits evil.

They demand, “Why aren’t any miracles sent to him by his God? Reply, “Miracles are with God alone and I am but a human warner!” Why, is it not sufficient that God had revealed to you the scripture and it is being recited to them? In it there is mercy and a reminder for those who truly believe!

Say (Prophet), “God is sufficient as a witness between me and you – God knows what is in the heavens and on earth. Those who believe in false deities and deny God, they are in a state of constant decay.

They challenge you to bring on the chastisement. It would have already overwhelmed them, had it not for the fact that God has set a time for it. It certainly will come suddenly, while they are unaware! Again, they challenge you to bring on the chastisement. Surely, Hell will overwhelm the deniers when the chastisement descends on them from above and approach them from beneath their feet and it will be said, “Taste the consequence of what you did.”

My Believing Servants, My earth is expansive – serve Me alone! Every soul will taste death and then to Us you will be brought back.

Those who believe and do good, God will give them residence in lofty Gardens full of running springs to be content with – excellent regards for the doers (of good)! – they are patient, and they rely on God!

How many creations of God neither carry nor store their provision? God provides for them all and you. God is all Hearing, all Knowing!

If you were to ask them, “Who created the heavens and the earth, and who made the sun and the moon follow orders?”, they will say. “God.” See how they turn around! God amplifies provision for some and constrains for others as God wills – God is fully aware of all things! If you were to ask them, “Who is it that sends down water from the clouds to bring life back on earth after its demise?”, they will say, “God.” Say, “Praise be to God!” Most of them are confused!

The life of this world is amusement and diversions, while the true living is in the Hereafter -only if they knew!

See when they ride a ship, they call on God with sincere submission. But when God brings them to shore in safety, they start associating deities with God – this is how they demonstrate ungratefulness for what God had given them. They wish to enjoy – but soon they will find out. Do they not see how God had secured the precinct (of Kabah) while people are being driven away by force around it? Would they still believe in falsehood and deny the blessings of God? Who is more unfair that the one who fabricate lies against God or say to the truth, that it is a lie when such truth is presented to them? Can there be any residence but Hell for such deniers?

Those who pursue diligently (jahadu) after Us (for God and goodness), We will guide them in Our Path. God is always with those who do good (muhsinin)!

We live in a world where your perceived identity is more important than your humanity. Your birth and your ethnicity are being used to discriminate, detain and deport in this very country we call home - something we never thought will come to pass. But it did, and is happening with a ferocity that defies any logic, decency, compassion, and above all our very constitution.

A friend of mine who teaches an MBA class in one of the universities here in DC, sometimes pokes the future business leaders to recalibrate their views of the world by asking them to write a poem starting with phrase like - where are you from?

He posed the same to a group of us, business leaders, some years ago and in response I wrote this poem in 2021 that I wanted to share!

WHERE ARE YOU FROM?

I am from where, you ask?

Bangladesh – says my old passport

Planet earth – where we both stand

A distant galaxy perhaps, in our cosmic band?

But here and now – we are Americans as we stand

Why do you ask?

Do I look different from you?

Do you not like my accent?

Perhaps the color of my skin intrigues you!

My mother says – I am from her womb

My father says – I am of his seed

God says – “you are from Adam and Eve”

Poet Rumi says – “My soul is from somewhere else, I am sure of that;

And I intend to end up there.”

I am a pilgrim just like you.

This journey had begun before I knew it started

Air enriched my lung with my first cry

My mother’s milk was flowing as I arrived

The earth was flattened before I could walk

Prophet Mohammad was asked – “Why do you worship so much?”

He said – “Should I not be grateful?”

Prophet Jesus said – “Blessed are the poor!”

May I ask – Are we honoring the poor?

Prophet Moses prophesied – “God will make the slaves of Pharaoh inherit the land;

Then He cautioned - “but then God will see how you behave.”

I am from the Heaven where Adam and Eve roamed until the Devil showed up.

Soul finds rest in the company of God

Where rancor does not exist

Where humanity finds harmony

Where God and Angels say, “Salam - Peace”

Why do you seek to divide?

Is not harmony good enough?

Why do you fight?

Is Peace so unbearable?

Why do you accept ignorance?

Is knowledge devoid of answers?

What happened to wisdom? Empathy?

It does not matter who you are or where you are from

Join me instead as a fellow traveler

Let’s find our common humanity

Cherish the sorrow and the joy of life together

Be each other’s keepers

The path is already laid if you care to gather

“All affairs go back to God for resolution” – the Qur’an says

Be pliant and accept reality with grace

This world is a mirror of your likes and your dislikes

Stay the course that your soul guides you to

Poet Rumi says – “whoever brought me here will have to take me home.”

Walt Witman says – “Don’t argue about God.

Question what you learn in churches, in books and in schools

Disregards whatever insults your soul”

Rumi and Whitman – friends across religions, cultures, continents and generations

Without ever meeting each other

But we have met, my friend, and so you ask

Be my friend, share the journey, and you will know where I am from…

“We come from God and to God we return (inna lillahi wa inna ilaihi rajiun)!

Copyright @rashedhasan - 2021

Week #10 includes the first 159 verses of Chapter 26 which is the 43^rd revelations. This early Surah was revealed during the early part of Prophet’s mission in Makkah, between 610-615 CE., most likely the year 615. This is long Surah, unlike many of the early revelations which tend to be shorter surahs.

In the Name of Allah, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!

Twa, Sin, Meem!

These are the verses of the book that make things clear! Perhaps you will worry yourself to death because these people will not believe.

Had We (God) intended, We could have sent a sign from heaven so that their necks would have bowed down to it in humility. Whenever a new revelation comes to them from the God of Mercy, they turn away and reject – so the consequence of their mockery will reach them soon!

Do they not see that, on this earth, We help to grow so many wholesome things – these are the signs, yet most of them are deniers? But your God is Mighty, Merciful!

(Remember) when God called upon Moses, “Go to the people who are corrupt – the people of Pharaoh. Why do they not abstain from evil works? Moses said, “God, I am afraid that they will reject me. I feel stressed and my words become unconvincing – so let Aaron come as well. They also have a charge against me, and I am afraid they will kill me.”

God said, “No way! You both go with Our signs. We are with you, and We do hear!

They came to Pharaoh and said, “We are messengers from the God of the Universe! Let the Children of Israel go with us.”

Pharaoh said, “Did we not raise you as a child? You did spend a lifetime with us. Then you committed that crime. You are surely ungrateful.”

Moses said, “I did those during a time when I was not properly guided. So, I fled because I was afraid. Now my Sustainer God empowered me with wisdom and assigned me as a messenger. What is that favor that you remind me of – that you have enslaved the Children of Israel?”

Pharaoh said, “What do you mean by this ‘God of the Universe’?”

Moses said, “God of the heavens and the earth, and what is in-between, if you really want to be certain.”

Pharaoh turned to those of his close associate, “Do you understand?”

Moses said, “God of yours and of your forefathers!”

Pharaoh said, “Surely this messenger sent to you is out of his mind.”

Moses said, “God of the East and the West, if you really care to use your senses.”

Pharaoh said, “If you accept any god other than me, I will put you in prison.”

Moses said, “How about I show you evidence (of my assertions)?”

Pharaoh said, “Show me if you speak the truth.”

Moses cast down his walking stick and lo, it was a serpent alive! And he brought forth his hand and lo and behold, it appeared white to the viewers!

[Pharaoh] said to the chiefs around him, “He is a skilled magician and wishes to drive you out of this land with his magic. What is your advice?” They said, “Give Moses and his brother some time while we convene all skilled magicians.”

All the magicians were gathered on a festive day for the appointment and people were called to witness and follow the magician if they were to prevail. The magicians came and said to Pharaoh, “Will there be a reward for us, if we prevail?” He replied, “Yes, you will be favored.”

Moses said to them, “Cast your magic if you will.” They cast their ropes and rods and said, “By the power of Pharaoh, we shall prevail.” Then Moses cast down his rod and it swallowed all their falsity. The magicians fell to the ground, prostrating. They said, “We believe in the Sustainer God of the worlds—God of Moses and Aaron.”

Pharaoh said, “Do you believe in Him without my permission? He (Moses) must be the chief amongst you who taught you magic. You will know soon—I will cut off your hands and feet from opposite sides and crucify you.” They replied, “You can do no harm, as we turn to our Sustainer God. We hope our Sustainer God will forgive our evils because we are the first to believe.”

And We (God) revealed to Moses: “Travel by night with My servants (Children of Israel)—you will indeed be pursued (by Pharaoh). Pharaoh sent deputies across the cities proclaiming, “These are a small band of people who had enraged us while we are a multitude and vigilant.” This is how We expelled them from their gardens and springs, their wealth and their grand dwellings and gave this (Exodus) as a heritage to the Children of Israel.

They pursued them at sunrise. When the two groups came to each other’s view, the people around Moses cried out, “We are overtaken.” Moses said, “No way! My Sustainer God is by me; He will guide me.” We revealed to Moses, “March to the sea (and strike) with your staff. The sea parted and each side was like a mountain, towering over. We then brought them near but saved Moses and those with him while We drowned the others. This is a sign but most refused to accept. Your Sustainer God is Mighty, Merciful!

And relate to them the story of Abraham when he said to his father and his community, “What do you worship?” They said: “We worship idols, and we remain ever devoted to them.”

He (Abraham) replied, “When you ask, do they hear you? Or, do they do any benefit or bring harm to you?” They said, “No, but we found our forefathers doing the same.”

He said, “Do you not realize what you and your forefathers are doing? Surely, these (idols) are enemies to me whereas the Lord of the World is not—Who created me and then guides me; Who gives me food and drinks; Who heals me when I am sick; Who will cause me to die and then raise me back to life; Who will, I hope, forgive me and my mistakes on the Day of Judgement.”

He then prayed, “My Sustainer God, grant me wisdom and align me with the righteous. And establish for me a genuine remembrance by later generations. Make me inherit the Garden of Tranquility. Forgive my father as he is one of those who have made mistakes. May You not disgrace me on the day of resurrection.”

The day when neither wealth nor children will benefit, except who comes to God with a heart complete with knowledge, wisdom, devotion and without doubt.

The Garden is revealed to those who acted responsibly while the Hell is made visible to those who were misguided and who will be addressed, as a result. “Where are those that you worshiped besides God? Can they help you or even themselves?”

They - false deities and the misguided - will be thrown into Hell, and so will be the Devil and his associates. They will quarrel therein and say to one another, “By God, we were truly misguided! We made you (false deities) equal to the God of the Universe! It is those steeped in evil that led us astray. Now we have no one who can intercede, nor a true friend. Only if we could but return, we will certainly become believers.”

Indeed, these narratives are evidence for them, yet most of them choose to deny. Your God is Mighty, and an Endower of Mercy!

The people of Noah also rejected the messengers. When Noah, their brother said to them, “Will you not align with God? I am a messenger to you, worthy of trust. Act responsibly and obey me. I am not here to seek any benefits from you, my reward is with the God of the Universe. Will you be mindful of God and listen to me?

They said, “Shall we believe in you, while the worst among us follow you?”

Noah said, “What knowledge do I have as to what they did? Their accountability is with none but God alone, if you could only perceive. I am not going to drive away anyone who believe. I am here to deliver a clear warning.”

They replied, “Noah, if you do not stop, we will stone you to death.”

He prayed, “God, my people had denied me. Judge between us and them as you see fit and give me safe passage and those with me.”

We (God) delivered them to safety on a loaded Ark and drowned the rest.

Indeed, these narratives are evidence for them, yet most of them choose to deny. Your God is Mighty, and an Endower of Mercy!

People of ‘Ad also denied their messengers.

Hud, their brother said to them, “Will you not align with God? I am a messenger to you, worthy of trust. Act responsibly and obey me. I am not here to seek any benefits from you, my reward is with the God of the Universe. Why do you build monuments in every high place, showing you vanity; build fortresses hoping to be secure forever and when you attack, you act like tyrants. Be mindful of God and follow me. Align with the One Who aids you and you know it well – cattle, children, gardens, and fountains – you are provided with. I am afraid of the consequences (of your denial and ungratefulness) on a terrible day!”

They said, “It is the same to us whether you warn us or not. Our way is no more than what our forefathers did, and we will not face any adverse consequences.” This is how they rejected him and as a result We (God) destroyed them.

Indeed, these narratives are evidence for them, yet most of them choose to deny. Your God is Mighty, and an Endower of Mercy!

People of Thamud also denounced their messengers as liars. Their brother Salih said to them, “Will you not act responsibly? I am a messenger, trustworthy! Show your devotion to God and listen to me. I am not here to ask for any reward from you, my reward is with the Owner of the Worlds! Do you consider yourself well established in your gardens and fountains, your corn fields and palm trees laden with corn and fruits, and fine houses you build on the mountain side? Again, I ask that you align with God and obey me, and do not follow the bidding of those whose greed, lust and corruption knows no limit and who make mischief on earth and do not act with goodness.”

They said, “You are nothing but delusional! You are only a mortal like us. Bring us a proof if you claim to be truthful.”

He said, “Here is the she-camel. She will have her drinks, and you will have your drinks on days predetermined. Do not harm her if you wish to avoid the calamity that will descend on you.”

But they hamstrung her and then regretted it as soon as the chastisement overtook them.

Indeed, these narratives are evidence for them, yet most of them choose to deny. Your God is Mighty, and an Endower of Mercy!

What is at stake

This election decides who holds power in Washington, what shapes our foreign policy, how to prioritize our domestic agenda impacting vast majority of Americans. And many local and state level issues are settled in the state capital for the next two to four years.

The state of affairs, both domestic and foreign, was never this bad and at odds with larger public sentiments – the Iran war, the genocide in Gaza with continued settlers’ violence, indiscriminate killing and bombing in Russia-Ukraine conflict and our direct involvement, funding, complicity and mismanagement in each of these cases are staggering and morally bankrupt. On the domestic front violation of the constitutional norms, dismantling of democratic institutions and safeguards, dehumanization of immigrants and lack of total empathy and action to restore public confidence in areas of healthcare, affordability, livings wages, public trust and basic decency are unprecedented.

We need to make sure everyone votes and all votes count.

On the ballot nationwide:

• All 435 seats in the U.S. House — the chamber that writes the budget and starts every tax and spending bill.

• 35 U.S. Senate seats, including special elections for the seats vacated by J.D. Vance and Marco Rubio. The Senate confirms judges and cabinet officials.

• 36 governorships, plus thousands of state legislators, secretaries of state, judges, sheriffs, prosecutors and school board members.

The less-noticed races matter more than ever. Governors, legislatures and secretaries of state set the rules for how you register, how you vote by mail, how votes are counted and who certifies the result. This year, many of the officials elected in November will also draw district maps and decide how the next presidential election is run.

Why voting early makes sense this year

The rules have changed in many places since you last voted, and the mail is slower and less predictable. Voting early turns a last-minute crisis into a problem you still have time to fix.

• Postmarks no longer prove when you mailed it: A U.S. Postal Service rule that took effect last December says a postmark may not match the day you drop off your mail, because machines apply it later at a processing center. In the 14 states that count ballots postmarked by Election Day, a ballot mailed late could arrive with a too-late postmark. In the other 36 states, the ballot must arrive by Election Day.

• Deadlines have tightened: Ohio, Kansas, North Dakota and Utah now require mail ballots to arrive by Election Day; Ohio dropped its four-day grace period. The Supreme Court ruled this summer in Watson v. RNC that states may count late-arriving ballots — but it did not require any state to.

• New ID and paperwork rules: The Brennan Center counts nearly 40 new voting laws in 21 states this year. New Hampshire no longer accepts student IDs; Ohio requires proof of citizenship to register at the DMV; Utah asks for more information on mail-ballot envelopes; some Mississippi voters may need a birth certificate or passport. Voting early gives you time to find the right document.

• Time to “cure” a mistake: A missing signature or a mismatched envelope can get a mail ballot set aside. Early voters are usually notified in time to correct it; Election Day voters often are not.

• Shorter lines, fewer surprises: Early voting spreads out the crowds, sidesteps bad weather, illness or a work emergency on Election Day, and lets campaigns and volunteers focus on people who haven’t voted yet.

What could interfere with your right to vote

Courts have blocked several of the biggest threats for November, but others are already in effect. Know them so they cannot stop you.

• Weakened Voting Rights Act protections: This spring, in Louisiana v. Callais, the Supreme Court sharply narrowed Section 2 of the Voting Rights Act, making it far harder for minority voters to challenge maps that dilute their votes. Within weeks, Tennessee passed a map splitting Memphis into three districts, Alabama called a special session, Florida enacted a new map, and Louisiana paused its House primaries and set aside about 42,000 votes already cast. District lines in some places may differ from the last time you voted.

• Voter-roll demands and purges: The Justice Department has demanded sensitive voter data — birth dates, driver’s license numbers, partial Social Security numbers — from states and sued more than 30 times; most of those suits have been dismissed, and this week it threatened legal action against California officials. Ohio is running a purge the ACLU has challenged in court. Federal law bars systematic purges in the 90 days before a federal election, but check your registration now anyway.

• New documentation hurdles: Beyond this year’s state laws, the pending SAVE America Act would require a passport or birth certificate to register — documents millions of eligible citizens do not have on hand. It has not taken effect for this election.

• Pressure on mail voting: Attempts to restrict mail voting through the Postal Service were blocked for November, and the Supreme Court let that order stand in September. Still, mail early.

• Intimidation and misinformation: Expect confusing messages about who is eligible, false claims that the election could be cancelled, and reports of federal agents near communities. The president cannot cancel an election, and stationing agents, police or troops at the polls to intimidate voters is illegal. Report it to your state election office or the nonpartisan Election Protection hotline, 866-OUR-VOTE.

• Fights over counting and certification: Officials at several levels have signaled they may challenge or delay certifying results. Ballots cast early and recorded cleanly are the hardest to question.

Your early-voting checklist

• Check your registration today at vote.org or your state election website — confirm your name, address and polling place.

• Look up your state’s rules - early-voting dates and hours, ID requirements and the mail-ballot receipt deadline.

• Voting by mail? Request your ballot now, sign exactly where asked, and return it at least a week early — or use an official ballot drop box or your county election office instead of the mailbox.

• Track your ballot online until it shows as accepted and fix any problem right away.

• Voting in person? Bring the ID your state requires and go during the early voting period.

• Bring someone with you. Help a friend, neighbor or family member make their plan.

The outcome of this election will shape your taxes, your health care, your schools and the rules for every election after it. Don’t leave your vote to the last day, the slowest mail truck or the longest line.

Overview

Observation

Here are the brief summaries of global events for the last two weeks:

1. Geopolitics and conflict

Three conflicts dominated the first half of October: Iran’s campaign against Gulf shipping, a fast-escalating Saudi-Houthi conflict, and a disputed “energy ceasefire” in Ukraine.

Iran war and the Strait of Hormuz

The US–Israeli war with Iran, now past its 225th day (it began in late February 2026), shifted back to the sea. As oil exports through the Strait of Hormuz recovered, Iran’s Revolutionary Guard (IRGC) stepped up strikes on tankers to choke them off again. Reuters counted at least 12 attacks on oil, LNG and LPG tankers between September 28 and October 5, and UKMTO confirmed six vessel strikes on a single Sunday, October 11. By October 13 at least 18 ships had been hit in or near the strait since early October; the IRGC said it struck three in two days. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio insisted the strait “is open” and that Iran has lost control of it.

Saudi Arabia vs. the Houthis

Yemen’s war turned into direct Saudi–Houthi fighting after the Houthis seized the port of Mocha and Mayyun Island in September. Saudi-led strikes hit Sanaa and border areas; the Houthis answered with missiles and drones on Saudi airports and oil sites.

• Oct 8: a Houthi attack on Saudi airports killed 3 (CNN).

• Oct 10–11: strikes on Riyadh’s King Khalid International Airport killed at least 14 and injured more than 300; several international airlines suspended flights to Saudi Arabia and neighbors.

• Oct 13: the coalition bombed a fuel station in Sanaa; hours later the Houthis hit a Saudi Aramco administrative building in Dhahran (fire, no casualties). The Houthis warned of a “swift and painful” response if the US joins in.

The UN says at least 46 civilians have been killed in Yemen since August and more than 200,000 people displaced since September. On October 12–13 an overcrowded migrant boat from Djibouti to Yemen capsized, leaving 139 dead and 84 missing.

Russia–Ukraine: an “energy ceasefire” that didn’t hold

On October 9 the US temporarily eased sanctions on Russian diesel, with a Treasury waiver running to next April; senators from both parties, including four Republicans, said it may breach a 2022 import ban. On October 12 President Trump announced that Russia and Ukraine had agreed to stop striking each other’s energy infrastructure. Kyiv and European allies were blindsided, Russian FM Sergey Lavrov rejected any pause, and Zelenskyy said Russia hit at least six energy sites the next day, wounding 33. Trump said there were “violations on both sides”.

The war is also spilling into the Black Sea: drone attacks on two cargo ships off Bulgaria (one sank, 11 sailors missing) prompted Sofia to summon Russia’s ambassador — the second such attack in a week. Earlier, Chinese troops joined Russia’s Tsentr-2026 exercise, attended by Putin on October 2.

Israel and Gaza

A year after the October 2025 Gaza ceasefire, deadly incidents continue: Gaza authorities report more than 1,400 Palestinians killed since the truce. Israeli forces raided Palestinian NGO offices in Ramallah, and PM Netanyahu ordered prosecutors to pursue soldiers shown in the documentary NAZA. A New York Times satellite analysis found most villages in Israeli-held southern Lebanon have been flattened since the April 2026 ceasefire there.

Asia-Pacific tensions

The US and Japan expanded their Keen Sword exercise, with the Philippines joining and US NMESIS anti-ship missiles deploying to Yonaguni, about 110 km from Taiwan. Indonesia became the third buyer of China’s J-10CE fighter, and the alleged murder of a woman in Okinawa by a US Marine sparked protest.

2. Politics and elections

The fortnight brought a Brazil runoff, a nationalist-leaning Quebec, a snap election in Spain and mass street protests in France and India.

Brazil. Senator Flávio Bolsonaro, son of the former president, edged incumbent Lula in the first round on 78.9% turnout, with no other candidate above 3%. The October 25 runoff is effectively a toss-up.

Spain. Sánchez called the November 29 vote a year early after Congress voted down two housing decrees on October 2. Rents have nearly doubled in a decade; tens of thousands marched in Madrid on October 9, and unions have called a general strike for November 11.

France. School protests that began in Paris suburbs in September became the most violent in decades, PM Sébastien Lecornu said: more than half of high schools were blockaded or closed on October 6, and 215 teenagers and 85 staff were injured. They coincide with a budget crisis, the 10-year bond yield briefly topping 5% (a 24-year high), and a presidential election due next spring.

India. The youth-led “Cockroach Janta Party” is demanding the resignation of Chief Election Commissioner Gyanesh Kumar, whose roll revisions reportedly removed about 130 million voters. Police detained its leaders and opposition figures including Mamata Banerjee and Arvind Kejriwal; a court freed the leaders on October 11.

Bosnia. Denis Bećirović (Bosniak seat) and Želka Cvijanović (Serb seat) were re-elected, and Darijana Filipović (HDZ) took the Croat seat, ending Željko Komšić’s run. Milorad Dodik, barred from office, still claimed victory.

United States. With midterms on November 3, DHS agents raided Rep. Ilhan Omar’s Washington home on October 12, which she called political intimidation, and the New York Times reported Elon Musk has given Republicans $366 million this cycle. An AP-NORC poll found 65% of adults blame the White House for high living costs.

3. Economy and markets

War-driven energy prices are the story: oil sits near $100+, inflation is spreading, and central banks are leaning toward tightening even as stocks hit records.

The Fed is in hiking mode. Under Chair Kevin Warsh, the Fed raised rates unanimously at its September 15–16 meeting. On October 12 Cleveland Fed President Beth Hammack said policy should tighten “relatively quickly” because inflation is spreading beyond energy. Wall Street still expects close to 30% S&P 500 earnings growth for Q3, the main prop under record stock prices.

Governments are cushioning fuel costs. By late September, 94 countries offered some form of consumer energy aid (up from 56 in April), and 57 had cut energy taxes. In Europe, France’s borrowing costs hit a 24-year high and the euro slid.

Trade. China and the EU reached an understanding on hybrid-vehicle imports on October 9, heading off a trade war. The US eased sanctions on Russian diesel to relieve fuel prices, drawing bipartisan objections in Congress. China opened the $11 billion, 134 km Pinglu Canal from the Xi River to the Gulf of Tonkin, shortening shipping to Southeast Asia, now China’s biggest trading partner.

4. Science, technology and AI

Nobel week (October 5–12) honored brain-control tools, neutrino astronomy and the economics of shocks; AI news centered on chips, power and the first signs of corporate retrenchment.

AI and tech highlights (from an industry roundup, Rio Rundown; not all independently confirmed):

• Chips: Nvidia began producing its Vera Rubin platform, with supply expected to stay tight for years; AMD previewed its Zen 6 “Verano” server CPU for 2027.

• Power: Google signed a 20-year deal with Constellation Energy for 890 MW of new nuclear capacity, the latest sign that AI data centers are reshaping electricity markets.

• Business: Character.ai filed for Chapter 11 bankruptcy and licensed IP from Disney; Amazon is reportedly in talks to buy Decart AI for about $7 billion; Kroger plans to cut 3,000 corporate roles over three years as it adopts AI.

• Safety and security: JP Morgan Chase said it will block external AI agents from directly accessing customer accounts, and OpenAI said the FBI arrested a former employee who planted a recording device in its offices.

In space, SpaceX’s Starship reached orbit for the first time on its September 28 test flight, deploying 26 Starlink satellites before the mission was cut short.

5. Disasters and humanitarian crises

Twin Pacific storms caused the fortnight’s deadliest natural disaster, killing at least six people in Mexico; the worst human toll came at sea and in war zones.

• Hurricanes Simon and Rachel (Oct 10–14). Simon strengthened to Category 4 before crawling along Mexico’s Pacific coast near Puerto Vallarta, forcing evacuations in Jalisco and school closures in 22 coastal municipalities. Rachel’s remnants flooded Ensenada in Baja California, then brought record October rain to Las Vegas (1.08 inches in a day), wrecked a boardwalk in Long Beach, California, and stranded runners in Utah’s Moab 240. Mexico’s death toll reached six by October 14, with others missing.

• Panama earthquake (Oct 9). A magnitude 7.6 quake shook Panama and prompted a tsunami warning; no deaths or major damage were reported.

• Djibouti migrant boat (Oct 12–13). 139 dead and 84 missing after an overcrowded boat bound for Yemen capsized — the period’s single deadliest incident.

• Displacement. More than 200,000 people have fled fighting on Yemen’s west coast since September, and southern Lebanon’s border villages remain largely destroyed.

6. Society and culture

Culture stories this fortnight were mostly about politics by other means.

• Film: NAZA, a Guardian-produced documentary by Yuval Abraham and Rachel Szor on Israel’s conduct in Gaza, drew acclaim abroad and a government backlash at home, including threats to strip the filmmakers of citizenship.

• Music and migration: Rising anti-migrant violence in South Africa is reshaping African touring — Salif Keita cancelled a South Africa concert, and Tyla dropped Lagos from her tour after a Nigerian boycott petition

• US memory politics: President Trump hosted a White House Columbus celebration around a newly installed 13-foot statue.

• Conservation: Seeds from what may be the last wild Dendroseris neriifolia, a tree daisy from Chile’s Robinson Crusoe Island, were sent to Scotland’s Logan Botanic Garden for safekeeping.

What to watch next

The next six weeks are packed with votes that could shift several of the trends above.

Also to watch: whether the Russia–Ukraine energy truce takes hold, whether the US is drawn into the Saudi–Houthi war, and whether Hormuz attacks push Brent further above $100.

That’s all for now!

This is a simple and disciplined way to compete the entire Qur’an in one year. Each week we will send you the next reading materials that you can either read or listen to. There is a play button at the top right-hand corner in your Substack App that you can click to listen to.

The Qur’an has a total of 6236 verses. We will send roughly 120-130 verses each week that you can read/listen over the weekend or weekdays as your preferred style but do maintain a weekly rhythm once established.

Whether you have read the Qur’an before or new to it, this translation of mine is written in contemporary American English and uses words and phrases that are more relevant to our time and usage. Investing less than hour each week, you will be on the way to get a good understanding of the messages of the Qur’an - to comprehend this divine scripture and if so desired, make its message a guide for your life and your pursuits!

Invite friends to join in this journey with you and together share and exchange notes, observations, and questions along the way. I am happy to provide my perspective, especially if you have questions or seek clarification. Happy readings and productive reflections!

You can see my full translation of the Qur’an in our non-profit website – Myllife.org

Week #9 includes a total of 135 verses from one complete chapter and it is the 42nd revelation. This early Surah was revealed during the early part of Prophet’s mission in Makkah, between 610-615 CE., most likely the year 615.

In the Name of Allah, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!

Ta Ha!

We (God) are not revealing this Qur’an to cause you stress. Rather we are sending a Reminder for those who are in awe of God! A revelation from the One Who created the earth and the high heavens – God of Mercy, established on the Throne! To Whom belongs all that is in the heavens, on earth, in-between these and what is beneath the soil. God knows whatever you may say aloud, keep quiet in secret and even your inner consciousness! This is God – there is no deity worthy of worship except God Who has beautiful names!

Has the story of Moses come to you (Prophet) yet? When he saw a fire (at a distance), he said to his family, “Stay here, I see a fire. Perhaps I can bring a flaming brand back to you or find guidance by the fire.” When he approached the fire, a voice called out, “O Moses! I am your Sustainer God! Take off your shoes and enter the sacred valley of Tuwa. I have chosen you, so pay attention to what is being revealed. Indeed, I am God, there is no deity but Me and keep your devotion to Me being mindful. The Hour is coming, while I keep a secret so that every soul may be rewarded what it strives for. So do not let anyone who disbelieve in it and follow their vain desires, distracts you from it, lest you are harmed (by such negligence).”

“And what is in you right hand, Moses?”

He said, “It is my stick. I lean on it, bring down leaves for my sheep and I have other usage.”

God said, “Moses, throw down your stick.”

As soon as he did, it became a live serpent and gliding away fast!

God said, “Grab it and don’t be afraid. We will return it as it was before. Now hide your arm by your side and it will come out white, without any harm; this is another sign as We are about to show you signs of much greater importance. Now, go to Pharaoh who has become a tyrant.”

Moses said, “My Sustainer God, increase my capacity for me, make my tasks manageable for me, and strengthen my words so that they can comprehend my message. Also, give me a helper from my family – my brother Aaron – to add strength to me, share my tasks with me, and together we can glorify You often. Indeed, You are a watcher over us both!”

God said, “Moses, your prayer is granted. (Remember) We also granted you favor another time in the past.”

We revealed to your mother, as an inspiration – put him (Moses) in a container and then float it in the river. Let the river bring it to a shore, where an enemy of Mine and an enemy of his will shelter him. I showered My love on you thus that you may be brought up under My watch.

Your sister went and said (to Pharaoh’s household), “Shall I direct you to someone who can nurse this boy?” This is how We brought you back to your mother so that she can be comforted and not grieve! Later you did kill a man, and We did save you from distress. We tried you with many trials and you did reside in Midian for a long time. Now you come here as already planned, O Moses

I have chosen you for Myself! Now, go – you and your brother – with My signs and don’t fail in keeping Me in your remembrance! Go – you both – to Pharaoh as he has become a tyrant. But speak to him gently – perhaps you will pay attention or show respect!

They (Moses and Aaron) said, “Our Sustainer God, we are afraid. He (Pharaoh) might do us harm or transgress further.” God replied, “Fear not. I am with you. I do hear, and I do see! Go to him and say, ‘We are two messengers from your God. Let the Children of Israel go with us and do not torment them. We have brought a message to you from your God, and we wish peace to him who follows the guidance. It has also been revealed to us that whoever rejects and turns away will face the consequences.’”

Pharaoh said, “Moses, who is the God of you two?

Moses said, “Our God is the One Who gives everything its creation and then guides.”

Pharaoh said, “What is the state of the former generations?”

Moses said, “Such knowledge is with my God and is in a written document. My God neither errs nor forgets.”

God made the earth expansive for you and laid out pathways on it, sends down water from clouds. This is how We (God) bring forth all kinds of vegetation in pairs so that you can eat and let your cattle pasture. In all of these, there is evidence for people of intelligence.

From the earth We created you, into it We shall return you and from it We shall raise you for the second time!

Indeed, We showed Pharaoh Our signs, all of them, but he denied and refused. Pharaoh said, “Moses, have you come to us to drive us out of our homes by your magic? We too can bring you such magic. Let’s convene in a central place, an appointment that neither you nor we will break.” Moses said, “Yes, let’s our appointment be the day of festivity. Let people gather in the early afternoon.”

Then Pharaoh left, made his plan, and then came back. Moses said to them, “Are you trying to fabricate a lie against God? Such fabrications have consequences, and every fabricator fail in the end.” So they (Pharaoh and his advisors) debated among themselves what to do and kept their discourse secret, while Pharaoh told them, “These two magicians are here to drive you out from this land by their magic and destroy our way of life. Therefore, firm up our plan, rally together and whoever prevails on this day will prosper.”

They said, “Moses, will you cast first or shall we?”

Moses said, “You cast your spell first”.

Instantly their cords and rods appeared alive and moving, causing fear in the mind of Moses.

God said, “Fear not! You will prevail! Cast what is in your right hand and it will consume all that they had devised. What they have produced is nothing but tricks of a sorcerer. Such enchantment never succeeds no matter where they come from.”

All the sorcerers fell to their knees and said, “We believe in the God of Moses and Aaron.” (Pharaoh) said, “Do you believe in him before I give you permission? For sure, he is your chief and taught you sorcery. I will cut off your hands and feet from opposite sides and crucify you on the trunks of palm trees. Thus, you will know which of us can inflict a more severe and lasting punishment.” They said, “We cannot give you preference over what became manifest to us and over God Who created us in the first place. Therefore, decide as you will decide—your decision is only about this life whereas we believe (and aspire) that our Sustainer God will forgive our faults and the magic that you had compelled us to perform. God is the Best and Ever Living!

Whoever comes as guilty to his Sustainer God is surely bound for Hell where he will neither die nor live, but those who come to God as believers and have done good, for them is the higher rank—Paradise of Perpetuity, flowing fountains and comfortable living—such is the reward for those who keeps themselves pure!

We certainly inspired (revealed to) Moses to travel by night with My servants and made for them a dry path across the sea, without fear of being overtaken or being afraid. Pharaoh pursued them with his armies but were overwhelmed as the sea engulfed them. Pharaoh misled his people, and he had no guidance!

O Children of Israel, God delivered you from your enemy and made a covenant with you by the right side of the mountain and sent you manna and quails. Eat of these good things that We have given you as provisions and do not act in arrogance because of such blessings, lest God’s displeasure touches you. Anyone God is displeased with, is indeed ruined!

I (God) am forgiving to those who amend their ways, truly believe, do good deeds and stay the course!

(God asked) “Moses, what made you come back (to Me) from your people in a such hurry?”

He said, “My people are following my teachings. Then I rushed back to you, my Sustainer God, so that You may be pleased.”

God said, “We have tested your people in your absence, and Samiri has led them off your teachings.”

Moses then returned to his people, being angry and grieving. He addressed them, “Did not your God made a promise that was full of goodness? Were you impatient regarding the timing of this promise or you wished God’s displeasure to come down on you? Is that why you broke your promise to me?”

They replied, “We did not break our promise with you on our own. We were burdened with people’s jewelry and following Samiri’s suggestion we melt them in a pit and so did he. Then he made a golden calf out of it, and it emitted a lowing sound, to which they said, “This is your God and the God of Moses, who went in search for it.”

How could they not see that it made no reply to them and could do no harm or bring no benefit to them? Even Aaron cautioned them, “My People, you are being tested by this. Your true God is the God of Mercy. Follow me and obey my command.” They said, “We will not refrain from our devotion to this until we hear from Moses.”

(Moses) said, “Aaron, what stopped you, when you saw them doing deviant things, that you did not come after me? How could you disobey my order?”

Aaron said, “Son of my mother (Moses), do not pull me by my beard or my head. I was afraid that you would say, ‘I caused division among the Children of Israel and did not follow what you said to me.’”

(Moses turned to and) said, “Samiri, what possessed you?”

He said, “I could perceive what they could not. So, I adopted some and discarded other messages of the messenger. I was thus tempted by my soul.”

Moses said, “Go away from us. It is your shame in this life that you say, “Touch me not.”, and a consequence that will not fail you. This your God that you are devoted to, we shall grind it and scatter it in the sea. (People), your true deity is none but God – there is no God but He, Who truly comprehends all things in His knowledge.”

This is how We (God) relate to you what has gone before, and We have given you a true Reminder from Ourselves! Whoever turns away from this will face its consequences on the day of Resurrection – absorbed in an evil of a burden - to carry to the day of Resurrection!

The day when the trumpet is sounded, and We (God) gather the sinful blind on that day! They will whisper to one another – “We only stayed (on earth) about ten days. We know best what they will say but the more perceptive of them will say, “Your stay was only but a day!”

They ask you about the mountains. Say, “God will scatter them (on that day) as dust, rendering them as flat plains, you will see no valleys or hills.

On that day, they will follow the summoner, a voice clear and without escape, whereas other voices before the God of Mercy will be low – you could hardly hear except a soft murmur. On that day, no intercession will work except whom the God of Mercy allows and whose words God is pleased with. God knows what is ahead of them (future) and what was behind them (past), while their knowledge can hardly comprehend any. People will be humbled before the Living and the Eternal God while those who caused and carried out injustice will be undone! But whoever did good work and was a believer will have neither fear of injustice, nor be deprived of what is due!

This is why We sent the Qur’an in Arabic and clearly stated cautions and warnings that they may act responsibly, guarding against evils and be reminded.

God is truly exalted, the Sovereign, the Truth! Do not make haste in reciting the Qur’an until its revelation is complete, and say, “God, may you increase my knowledge.”

God gave a command to Adam before, but he failed to remember. We did not find in him resoluteness. (Remember) when God said the angels, “Bow down to Adam.” They all did but not Iblis (Satan) – he refused! We said, “Adam, this is an enemy to you and to your wife. Do not let him drive you out of this garden (paradise) that you may face difficulty. Here you will not suffer hunger or nakedness or thirst or the heat of the sun.” But the devil whispered to him, saying, “Adam, shall I lead you to the tree of immortality and a kingdom that never ceases?” (v. 115-120)

They both ate from it, became aware of the evils of their nakedness and started gathering leaves from the garden to cover themselves. Thus, Adam disobeyed God and was disappointed by his mistake. Later God brought him near, forgave him and guided him.

God said, “Go forth from here – all of you – as enemies of one another, but Guidance will come forth from Me. Whoever will follow My Guidance will not err or face difficulty. But whoever turns away from My Reminder will face difficulty and We will raise him as blind on the day of Resurrection.”

He will say, God, why did you raise me as blind, while I used to see? God will say, “This is how it is – you neglected our messages when it came to you, and today you are also being neglected.” This is how We take retribution from those who obey no boundaries and deny the messages. The chastisement of the hereafter is even more severe and even more lasting!

Does it not occur to them that many a generation, whose dwelling places they now walk on, have been destroyed before them? Indeed, people with understanding should take lessons from these!

Were it not for a Word from your God that had already gone forth before, the inevitable would have already occurred. But the term has been fixed. So, be patient regarding what they say, and glorify the praise your God – before the rising of the sun and it’s setting, during the hours of the night, and during parts of the day – that you may find contentment.

Do not be enticed by and have longing for what We have given some of them to enjoy – the finery and splendor of the worldly life. We try them with these, while the provision that is with your God is better and more enduring! (v. 131)

Encourage your family and your community to establish worship and maintain constancy in it yourself. We do not ask of any provision from you, instead We provide, and the good end belongs to those who act responsibly.

They say, “Why has he not brought a sign from his God?” Have such signs not been already delivered in the previous scriptures? If We had brought them to accountability before this Qur’an, they would have said, “God, why did you not send to us a messenger that we could have followed your guidance, before facing disgrace and shame?” Say, “We all are waiting; you too then wait. Soon you will come to know who walks the true path and who is truly guided.”

Chapter 3: The Family of Amran| Surah Al-Imran

Verses 5-7

Excerpt from Volume 2: Free to Choose

Translation

Indeed, there is nothing on this Earth or in the universe that is hidden from God. He is the One who shapes you in your mother’s womb in whatever form He wishes!¹⁶³ He is the One Who has revealed the book to you. Some of its verses are foundational and decisive (Mohkamat), forming the basis of the book while other verses are allegorical, given as examples (Mutashabihat).¹⁶⁴ But those whose hearts are steeped in perversity and seek to misguide, attempt to give meanings to these verses according to their own interpretation. Only God and those who have developed deeper knowledge understand these meanings, who say, “We believe in it, and it is all from our Sustainer.” Only people of understanding will take note of such guidance.¹⁶⁵

Interpretation

163. When one reads such verses from the Qur’an and notes the clarity and forcefulness of how these self-evident facts are stated, one has no alternative but to accept the fact that only God can make such statements—the fact that nothing in this universe escapes His surveillance and care and that each one of us is shaped in our mothers’ wombs in the way that God dictates and molds. Yet we continue to marginalize God in our lives and fail to respond to His call for servitude to God and mutual commitments to fellow human beings.

164. This is one of the most powerful verses of the Qur’an, whereby God gave guidance on how to read and understand the Qur’an and how to implement Qur’anic guidance in our human societies. The Prophet was a living example, and his contemporaries were a living experiment on how to translate Qur’anic guidance into transforming lives and societies—indeed, the whole world! There are verses in the Qur’an that are fundamental and foundational and are independent of time or place, such as belief in God, truth and justice, moral and ethical values, human rights and human obligations, and so forth. Yes, the form and shape of their expression and codification in our social constructs might be colored by geography, climate, social norm, ethnicity, and human conditions, but in essence they continue to exist as fundamental truths defining our existence and our relationships. It is like a light ray; when it moves through a prism, it shows up in different color spectrum to the visible eye. It is aesthetically beautiful, and this makes it more relevant to our daily experience, but the core of it stays true to the light that gets dispersed into a beautiful rainbow of colors or thoughts or expressions bound to a common and universal truth about God and His creation.

These verses also provide a basis and a boundary within which other sets of Qur’anic instructions and suggestions need to be framed and adjusted over time, over geographic differences, and over various human conditions. Family laws, inheritance, civil-society norms, clothing, eating habits, prayer times, civil defense, governance, religious and social celebrations, and so on can be adjusted based on prevailing norms, physical conditions, geographic locations, cultural nuances, level of education, mode of economic lives, and so forth, as long as they do not conflict or contradict the fundamental aspects of God’s creation and our common humanity.

165. Too often, we fail to live up to the foundational aspects of Qur’anic teachings and give too much importance to other aspects, such as what sect we belong to (e.g., Shia or Sunni), what school of thought we follow (e.g., Hanafi or Maliki), how to clothe ourselves, whether to have a beard or no beard, should we wear the hijab, and so on. These types of conflicts of priorities and trivialization of faith and practices create disunity among Muslims and disable them from unifying their lives and societies. Such disunity creates opportunities for competing ideologies and civilizations to overpower them and marginalize them while at the same time creating an atmosphere of mistrust and exclusion that prohibits people from coming together to create a pluralistic society where all forms of faith in God are practiced and valued. Our focus should be to unite humanity around a set of fundamental values of godhead and human rights and obligations as espoused by the great teachers like Abraham, Moses, Jesus, and Mohammad and their torchbearers in various religions, ideologies, and civilizations throughout human history—ancient as well as contemporary.

Key Arabic Terms

56. Arham: Womb (this root is also connected to God’s attributes of mercy and endowment of mercy in the creation)

57. Mohkamat and Mutashabihat: Foundational versus allegorical

58. Ar-Rasikhuna fil elm: Deeper foundation in knowledge and wisdom

Chapter 73 - 7| Covered (Surah Al-Muzammil)

(20 verses in total; revealed in early Makkan Period)

Chapter 73 is one of the early revelations that gives us a glimpse of the deep devotion that the Prophet and early Muslims practiced known as night vigil or Tahajjud prayers, despite their tremendous hardship during the day time for sharing the revelation, facing hostilities and insult while also working to earn and take care of their families.

In the Name of Allah, the God of Mercy and the Endower of Mercy!

O You (Prophet) covered up (in your cloak)!

Rise (to devotion) by night

All but a little

Half of the night or a little less

Or a little more

And recite the Qur’an, slowly and distinctly! (v. 1-4)

We are about to endow you with a mighty message

The vigil of the night will make the impression deeper

The words sharper

Your days are consumed in prolonging activities

Be mindful of the exulted nature (names) of your Sustainer

Fully devote yourself to God

The Cherisher of the East and the West

There is no other god but God

Take God as your true Guardian

Be patient with what the deniers say

Ignore their behavior with dignity (v. 5-10)

Leave the deniers to Me

Those who possess plenty (wealth and pride)

Let’s spare them for a while

With Us are fetters (to restrain)

And abyss (of fire)

And food that chokes

And consequences dire

On a Day when the earth and mountains will shake

The mountains becoming heaps of loose sand (v. 11-14)

(O people) We sent you a messenger

As a witness for you

Just as We had sent a messenger to Pharaoh

But the Pharaoh denied the messenger

And We seized him with a terrifying grip

How, then, if you deny (God)

Will you protect yourselves?

From a Day that turns children grey-haired

Makes the sky torn to pieces

Surely, God’s promise is ever fulfilled! (v. 15-18)

Indeed, this is a Reminder

You are free, if you will, to take the way to Your Sustainer God! (v. 19)

(O Prophet), Your Sustainer Knows that you spend nearly two-thirds of the night in devotion, sometime half of it, sometimes a third of it and so does a group of those who follow you. It is God who measures the night and the day. God recognizes that you are not able to do so. Therefore, God has relented to all of you – therefore, devote and read as much of the Qur’an as is easy for you.

God knows that there are those who are sick among you, those who travels on land, seeking livelihoods and others who exerts in Allah’s way. Therefore, read as much of it as easy for you, while you maintain your worship (salah), support common good (zakat) and lend to Allah a good loan.

Whatever good deeds you store for your soul beforehand, you will find it with Allah – better and with a grand reward!

Ask forgiveness from Allah. Allah is Forgiving, Endower of Mercy! (v. 20)

This is a simple and disciplined way to compete the entire Qur’an in one year. Each week we will send you the next reading materials that you can either read or listen to. There is a play button at the top right-hand corner that you can click to listen to.

The Qur’an has a total of 6236 verses. We will send roughly 120-130 verses each week that you can read/listen over the weekend or weekdays as your preferred style but do maintain a weekly rhythm once established.

Whether you have read the Qur’an before or new to it, this translation of mine is written in contemporary American English and uses words and phrases that are more relevant to our time and usage. Investing less than hour each week, you will be on the way to get a good understanding of the messages of the Qur’an - to comprehend this divine scripture and if so desired, make its message a guide for your life and your pursuits!

Invite friends to join in this journey with you and together share and exchange notes, observations, and questions along the way. I am happy to provide my perspective, especially if you have questions or seek clarification. Happy readings and productive reflections!

You can see my full translation of the Qur’an in our non-profit website – Myllife.org

Week #8 includes a total of 143 verses across 2 earliest chapters ranging in sizes of 45 verses to 98 verses in each chapter (surah). These two surahs were revealed during the early part of Prophet’s mission in Makkah, between 610-615 CE.

Chapter 35 - 40

The Originator (Surah Al-Fatir)

(45 verses in total)

In the Name of Allah, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!

God be praised, the Originator of the heavens and the earth, the Maker of angels as messengers traveling on wings – two, three, and four. God increases in creation when He wills. God is powerful over all things!

When God bestows His mercy on humankind, there is none who can withhold it and when He withholds such mercy, there is none who can grant such mercy thereafter. God is Grand, Wise!

O humankind, remind yourself how God favored you. Is there a creator besides God who gives you provision from this heaven and earth? There is no God but He. How is it that you delude yourself?

If they reject you (Prophet) – then know that prophets before you were also rejected. But God controls all affairs. O humankind, promise of God is ever true! Do not let the life on this earth deceive you and don’t let the Deceiver, the Devil deceive you either about God. The devil is an enemy of yours - treat him as an enemy. He only invites his followers to become companions of those who are in the blazing fire!

Those who deny God, for them is a severe consequence; but those who believe and do good, for them is forgiveness and a great reward!

What about those whose wickedness is made fair to them so that they consider their acts as good? This is how God leaves some in error as He wills, while guiding others, as He pleases. Therefore, do not let your (Prophet) soul grieve for such people. God knows exactly what they do!

It is God Who send the wind to raise clouds and then drive clouds to a land dry and in that process give life to the earth after its death – such is also the resurrection (for people)!

Those who desire power should know that power resides wholly with God. Good deeds and good words ascend to God and He honors them. But those who plan evils – for them is severe consequences! Their plan is bound to fail.

God originated you from dust, then reproduces you from life cells and assigns you into two sexes! No female ever bears nor gives birth but with God’s knowledge! No one lives longer or the span of a life is cut short, except according to a Record – a task easy for God!

Two bodies of water are not alike – one sweat and fresh, pleasant to drink, while the other salty, bitter; yet from both you bring out fresh fish and flesh to eat and ornaments to wear. You watch ships cleaving through them so that you may seek God’s bounty and be thankful.

God causes the night to ease into the day and the day to ease into the night. God made the sun and the moon subservient – each following its prescribed path and destination. Such is God, your Cherisher and His is the true Sovereignty!

Those deities that you call besides God, own not even the tiny edge of a date stone. If you call them, they do not hear you, and even if they did, they could not answer you, and on the day of resurrection, they will deny your associating them (with God). See, none can inform you as the All-Aware God can!

O humankind! It is you who stands in need of God, while God is Self-Sufficient, the One Praised! If He wills, he can remove you and bring a new creation – it is not difficult for God!

No burdened soul can carry the burden of another, even if he were to prevail upon another to carry his burden, even the closest of kins. You (Prophet) can only caution those who are mindful of God in their private moments, are devoted to God, and maintain purity. Know that whoever purify themselves, they do so for their own good and to God is your eventual coming back.

The blind and the seeing are not the same!

Nor is darkness and light!

Nor shade and heat!

Nor the living and the dead!

It is God Who makes you hear, as He wills!

You cannot make those in graves to hear!

You (Prophet) are only a warner!

God sent you (Prophet) with truth, good news and warnings! There is no community, but a warner has come forth. If they reject you now, those before you were also rejected, though they came with sound reasoning, psalm and scriptures that enlighten! Afterwards, I (God) seized the deniers – and how was My disapproval if you can understand?

Do you not see how God sends down water from the clouds and produces flowers and fruits of various colors, texture, taste, fragrances? The mountains have wide streaks – white, red and other colors as well as intensely black! Humankind, wild beasts, and cattle – all have diversity likewise! It is only those servants of God, having knowledge and awareness, stand in true awe of God. Towards them God is Forgiving, Appreciative!

God has made heirs to the scripture those whom He had chosen from among His servants. Some of them took it the wrong way, some of them took the middle course and some of them were at the forefront of goodness - by God’s will and that is the grand grace! They will enter the Garden of Perpetuity, with bracelets of gold and pearls, and dresses made of silk. They will acknowledge, “Praise be to God who has removed our griefs and toils from us. Our God is truly Forgiving, Appreciative! It is out of God’s grace that He gave us lasting residence in such a place where toil and fatigue do not touch us.”

As for the disbelievers is the fire of Hell – they will neither be reprieved by death in it, nor will the torment be lightened. This is how We (God) bring retribution to every denier, ungrateful! Therein they will cry out loud, “Our God, do take us out. We will do good deeds, not the ones we used to do before.” “Did God not give you a life long enough to be mindful, if you were to be mindful? (Messengers with) warnings came to you as well. Now taste this (consequently) – there is no helper for those who are wicked!”

Only God knows the secrets of the heavens and the earth. God even knows what is in your inner consciousness! God is Who made you His agency on the earth. So whoever denies (God), only denies himself. Such denials of theirs do not augment their stature with God but His displeasure. Such denials result in nothing but losses!

Say, “Have you considered those whom you call on as God’s associates? Show me - what have they created on this earth? Do they have any share in the heavens? Do they have a scripture that God has given them such that they follow its guidance?” No way! The deniers promise one another nothing but delusion and deception!

It is God who holds the heavens and the earth in positions lest they destroy themselves and if they do, none can save them but God. See how Forbearing and Forgiving God is!

They (deniers) swore by God with their strongest oath – if a warner comes to us, we will be better guided than other communities. But when a warner did come, it only increased their aversion further – acting with arrogance on earth and planning evils. Yet, evil plans come to haunt no one but their planners! Can they expect anything other than what happened to their fore-bearers? You will not find any change in the manner God deals (with such wicked people) – no change whatsoever!

Have they not traveled and seen the conditions of those who came before them, they were even more powerful than these? God is such that there is nothing in the heavens or the earth that can thwart Him – God is truly Knowing, Almighty! If God were to punish humankind for what they have done, He would have left none on it. But God gives them respite until the appointed time comes, which will come as God holds all his creation under His watch!

Chapter 19 - 41

Mary (Surah Maryum)

(98 verses in total)

In the Name of Allah, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!

Khaaf-Ha-Ya-A’in-Saad!

Now mention the mercy that your God bestowed on His servant, Zacharias, when he called upon his Cherisher God in private. He pleaded, “God, my bones have weakened, and my hair has turned gray and I have never been unrewarded of my supplication to You! I am concerned about my family and kinsmen after I am gone, and my wife is barren. Grant me from Yourself an heir who will inherit me and the family of Jacob and make him pleasing to You!” “Zacharias, We give you the good news of a boy, whose name will be John - We have not named anyone before him as such.”

Zacharias said, “My Sustainer God, how can I have a son while my wife is barren, and I am old and frail.” God replied, “This is how it is. It is easy for Me and (remember) I created you before when you were nothing!”

He said, “My Cherisher God, give me a sign.” God said, “You are unable to speak to people for three nights, though you are in sound health.” He then went forth to his people, signaled to them to praise God mornings and evenings. “O John, take hold of the scripture firmly.” We (God) granted him wisdom from his childhood and tender heartedness from Us while being full of purity, and mindfulness. He was kind to his parents and was neither arrogant nor rebellious. (Declare) peace on him the day he was born, the day he died, and the day he will be raised to life!

Let’s narrate Mary in this scripture – she withdrew herself from her family to a place east and secluded herself from them. We (God) then sent Our spirit (angel) who appeared before her as a handsome man. She exclaimed, “I seek refuge in the Beneficent God from you; will you guard against evil?” He (angel) replied, “I am indeed a messenger from your Cherisher God. I am here to give you the news of a boy, pure!” She replied, “How can I have a son when no man has touched me, and I have not been unchaste.” He replied, “This is how it is. Your sustainer God says, ‘It is easy for Me.’, that We may make him a sign for men and a source of mercy from Us. It is a matter already ordained.”

She then conceived him and withdrew to a faraway place. The pain of childbirth drove her to cling to the trunk of a palm tree. She said, “I wish I had died and long forgotten before this!” A voice came to her from beneath, “Do not grieve! Your Sustainer has provided a stream beneath you. Shake the tree towards you and it will drop fresh ripe dates for you. Eat, drink and be content. If you see anyone, say, “I have vowed to fast for the sake of the Beneficent God. I will not speak to anyone today.”

Once she arrived to her people, carrying her son, they said, “O Mary, you have indeed done a terrible thing! You are a sister of Aaron (priestly class), your father was not wicked, and your mother was not unchaste.” But she pointed to the son, and they said, “How can we speak to a child in his cradle?” Jesus replied, “I am a servant of God. God has given me the scripture and made me a prophet. God has blessed me wherever I may be. God has prescribed for me to worship, to help the poor as long as I live and to be kind to my mother. God has made me neither rebellious, nor without grace! Peace be on me the day I was born, the day I die, and the day I will be raised to life!”

Such was Jesus, the son of Mary – a true narrative that they dispute about!

It does not befit God that He should take a child to Himself – God is full of glory! Whenever God wishes to decree a thing, God says, “Be” and it becomes. Surely God is your Sustainer and my Sustainer, so let’s serve God alone. This is the straight path! Yet, parties among them differed. What consequences await those who deny, on a grave day when it arrives! That day they will hear and see things clearly as they come back to Us; yet now they are far off the true path. Warn them of this day of regret when matters will be decided; yet they are negligent, and they deny.

Surely, We (God) inherit the earth and those on it – to Us they all return!

Let’s narrate Abraham in this scripture – he was a man of truth, a prophet. He pleaded with his father thus, “Father, why do you worship such things that do not hear or see and can’t do any good. Father, certain knowledge has come to me that has not been given to you. Follow me and I will guide you to a path without blemish. Father, do not serve the Devil – he disobeys the Beneficent God. Father, I am afraid that displeasure of the Beneficent God descends on you, and you are branded with the devil.”

His Father replied, “Do you hate our Gods, Abraham? If you do not stop, I will drive you away. Go away from me for a long time.” Abraham replied, “Peace! I will supplicate to God for your forgiveness! God is ever kind to me! I will remove myself from you and all that you worship besides God. I call upon my Cherisher God and I fervently hope that my calling of my God is worthy of His blessings!

Then he left them and moved away from all that they worshipped besides God. We gave him Isaac and Jacob and each We made a prophet. We blessed them with Our mercy and gave them eminence and a noble reputation!

Let’s mention Moses in this scripture. He was sincere in his devotion, a messenger, and a prophet. God called on him from the right side of the mountain, and We made him drew near to us for direct communication. We gave a companion prophet, Aaron, his brother out of Our Mercy.

Let’s mention Ishmael in this scripture. He was a man of truth, keeping promises made, a messenger, and a prophet. He instructed his people to devote to God, to goodness and to help the poor. He was one of those with whom God was pleased!

Let’s mention Idris in this scripture. He was a man of truth, a prophet. We elevated him to a higher state.

These are they whom God had blessed – from among the prophets, among the children of Adam (and Eve), among those whom We carried with Noah (in his Arc), among the children of Abraham and Israel, and of those whom We guided and selected. When the messages of the Beneficent God are read out to them, they would prostrate and weep in awe and devotion!

But after them came an evil generation who misused their worship, followed their greed and lust and as a result met their consequences, except those who repented, reestablished faith and did good. It is these who will enter the Garden, and they will not be touched with any injustice! A Garden of Perpetuity, a promise from Beneficent God to His servants, yet unseen (in this life), but God’s promises always come to fruition.

In it they will hear no vain discourse, but greetings of Peace! They will have their provisions given each morning and evening! Such is this garden that those of our servants, who acts responsibly, will inherit from Us!

(Gabriel said) “We do not descend except with the permission and command of God, to Whom all belongs – what is behind you, what is in front of you and what is in between. Your Cherisher God is never forgetful! God of heavens and earth and what is in between. Serve God and be patient in His Service! Do you know of anyone who can be His Equal?

Some people say, “Once I am dead, shall I be brought back to life?” Do they not remember that God created them before, when they were nothing worthy? By your God (Prophet), We will gather them altogether along with the Devil and then bring on the brink of hell, on their knees!

Then We will draw out from various groups those who were the worst in denial and disobedience against the God of Mercy. We know for sure those who are most deserving of getting in the blaze in front of them. Everyone will come to face this – none can escape, as this is ordained by God. But God will deliver those who acted responsibly and avoided evils, while the wicked will be left behind on their knees.

When Our messages are read out and explained to them, those who are in denial ask those who are believers, “Of our two parties, which party do you believe is in better positions? Which party has better following?” (Do they not know that) We have compelled to give account generations before them who had better possessions and better outward appearances!

Say, “For those who are in errors and denials, God of Mercy will prolong their days until they come face to face with what they have been cautioned before – either the consequence (in this life) or the Hour (of death and resurrection)! – then they will realize who is in worse position and weaker in following!” But God amplifies guidance for those who seek and follow guidance - their deeds, the good deeds, are more worthy of rewards from God and yield better returns.

Have you seen him who denies Our messages and asserts, “I am certain to be given wealth and children.”? Does he have knowledge of the future or is there a covenant between him and the God of Mercy? No way! We record his assertions and will prolong his chastisement. We preserve all he says, and he will come back to Us alone! These people take on gods besides God, assuming these will be a source of strength for them. No way! These will soon deny such worshiping and turn against them!

Do you not see (Prophet) that we send evil ones (devils included) to incite the deniers? So do not be impatient regarding them; We do a countdown against their life span. On the day (of judgement) We will gather the responsible ones as an honored delegate, while We will drive the deniers as a horde of thirty beasts. These have no power to intercede, except those who made a solemn covenant with the God of Mercy!

They assert, “The God of Mercy has taken on a son for Himself.” What a terrible assertion! It almost renders the heaven to be torn down, the earth to split itself and the mountain to crumble to pieces – that they ascribe a son to the God of Mercy! It is unworthy of God of Mercy to take on a son since there is nothing in the heavens and on earth that does not come to the God of Mercy as a creation and as a servant! He tracks them all and takes accounts of them precisely. Every one of them will come back to Him on the day of Resurrection all alone!

Those who believe and do good deeds, for them the God of Mercy will let love to blossom!

Therefore, We have made it easy for you (Prophet) in your own language and speech that you give good news to those who acts responsibly, while warning those who are contentious and stubborn.

How many a generation have We removed before them – can you see any of them or hear even a whisper?

Congratulations! You have completed week#8. …Perhaps you can share one thought or one verse that resonated with you this in this week’s reading or listening….if each one of us can share one such thoughts, we can see how we all connect with this weekly reading.

Don’t forget to like post and share with others family and friends – in your neighborhood and across the continent.

May God bless you! May Allah have mercy on the World!!

Looking back on events every two weeks gives the trend lines, the underlying motives of some of the key actors on global politics and the human condition (both physical and ethical) that frames how events unfold and how countries justify their behaviors. Here are the key takeaways:

· The US war of choice with Iran, at the behest of Israel shows no signs of going away since both Israel and the current US administration have dug in their heels. US position has been way too erratic to have any credibility or trust, and without visible success can’t save face and call it a quit.

· The drama in and out of the General Assembly really undermines the effectiveness of the organization. The level of lies that Israel has unleashed in its address and dire threat by US against Iran for “annihilation” are both appalling, clearly undermines rule of law and make fun of international law as well as public sentiment in USA and across the world

· The war between Russia and Ukraine sees no light at the end of the tunnel and war crimes against innocent civilian is being committed on a daily basis in front of global audience without any effective global and US leadership to contain this conflict

· Outside the UN, as a side show, US and China leaders hobnob with tech oligarchs while claiming to represent average people in each of their countries.

· The Israeli settler’s violence continues in West Bank unabated and with active encouragement from Israeli far rights while death toll continues to rise in Gaza

· US finally closes its military presence in Iraq and just like Afghanistan has no success to show after trillions of dollar in wasteful and ineffective military campaigns that undermined US credibility and commitment and shows the misguided nature of these military campaigns…

· …while in the home front November election is inching closer each week and the country eagerly waits to see the makeup of US Congress and Senate after November election!

Below are some of the major events. We also highlight the country of Albania this week:

Iran war and the Middle East

UN General Assembly. In his September 22 address, Trump told the General Assembly a deal with Iran is possible after the midterm elections, but his other choice is to “annihilate the Islamic Republic.” Most of Iran’s delegation walked out of the chamber as Trump railed against the Islamic Republic. Iran’s president, Masoud Pezeshkian, responded a day later, declaring that his country would not be intimidated into betraying its national interests. Earlier, on September 18, a UN fact-finding mission said it had found evidence the U.S. committed war crimes in two attacks that killed at least 177 civilians, many of them children.

Hormuz proposal rejected. At the UN, Iran offered a seven-day plan. It called for the U.S. to release frozen Iranian funds, lift oil sanctions and end its naval blockade on Iranian ports. In return, the strait would reopen and talks on a final deal would begin. On September 26, Trump confirmed he had rejected the offer. The Wall Street Journal reported he told aides he expects to resume bombing Iran after November’s midterm elections. Trump later told Axios he expects more talks with Iran this week. The war is now in its eighth month.

U.S. leaves Iraq. On September 30, the U.S. military announced it had completed the withdrawal of all American troops from Iraq, ending a 12-year mission against the Islamic State group. Iran and its allies celebrated the departure as a victory, while critics in Iraq fear the withdrawal is premature.

Flydubai incident. Flydubai flight FZ1073 left Dubai for Tel Aviv on September 30 and experienced a serious flight-deck altercation while en route. Public flight-tracking data showed abrupt altitude changes, and the aircraft transmitted the general-emergency code 7700 and, briefly, code 7500, which signals possible unlawful interference; the codes indicate the type of emergency communicated, but do not by themselves establish who caused it or why.

West Bank. About 100 settlers raided the village of Jalud, south of Nablus, overnight into Tuesday, targeting a Palestinian family’s homes. Netanyahu called the attackers a “handful of rioters,” while his main challenger in next month’s Israeli election, Gadi Eisenkot, blamed government policy.

U.S., China and Greenland

Xi in Washington. Xi Jinping’s September 23–25 visit was his first formal trip to Washington in 11 years. It featured three days of pageantry but few concrete agreements. The main outcomes were:

• extension of the trade truce that suspends Chinese rare-earth export controls and U.S. tariffs

• forthcoming dialogue on AI

• Board of Trade to lower tariffs on nonsensitive goods

Greenland deal. After his UN speech, Trump signed an agreement with Greenland and Denmark giving the U.S. wider powers to defend the Arctic territory. The deal keeps Greenland part of Denmark and would still apply if Greenland chooses independence. It also allows the U.S. to open new bases on the island.

Europe and Russia

Russia’s elections. In Duma elections held September 18–20, United Russia won 349 of 450 seats, beating its previous record. Genuine opposition had been barred from the ballot.

Ukraine. On September 25, Russian strikes on Kyiv killed seven people and halted production at Ukraine’s largest steelmaker. This week, a drone hit the National Academy of Sciences in central Kyiv, killing at least two people. Ukraine has kept up attacks on Russian oil refineries.

Africa

Ethiopia. Tigrayan rebel forces launched a major offensive against the government, ending a four-year ceasefire. On September 23 they seized three federally controlled airports, and fighting spread into the neighboring Amhara and Afar regions. The offensive came days after the Tigrayan party and six other armed groups formed an alliance committed to removing Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed’s government.

Ebola in Congo. As of September 23, the DRC had reported 7,890 confirmed cases and 3,799 deaths. It is the largest Ebola outbreak ever recorded in the country. There is no licensed vaccine or treatment for this strain.

South Africa. A series of mass shootings in three major cities killed nearly 40 people in one week. These included 11 people killed at a house party near Durban and at least 10 at a restaurant near Cape Town.

Other notable items

• Korean border: Kim Jong Un’s sister denied that North Korea planted land mines that injured three South Korean soldiers, rejecting South Korea’s findings.

• China and the EU: China vowed a response if the EU introduces measures targeting Chinese trade.

• Canada and U.S. tariffs: Prime Minister Mark Carney accused the U.S. owner of steelmaker Stelco of betraying Canadian workers after it announced layoffs it partly blamed on Trump’s tariffs.

Country Profile: Albania

A small, mountainous Western Balkan state on the Adriatic and Ionian seas, positioned across the Strait of Otranto from Italy.

Capital: Tirana

Population: 2.35 million (2025)

Area: 28,748 km²

Official language: Albanian

Geography and location. Albania lies in southeastern Europe on the Balkan Peninsula. It borders Montenegro, Kosovo, North Macedonia and Greece, and faces Italy across the Adriatic. Its terrain is predominantly mountainous, with a narrow coastal plain and access to both the Adriatic and Ionian seas. This location links the Western Balkans to Mediterranean shipping, tourism and energy routes.

Government and international position. Albania is a unitary parliamentary republic. President Bajram Begaj is head of state and Prime Minister Edi Rama heads the government. The country joined NATO in 2009 and is an EU candidate. By July 2026, all 33 accession chapters had been opened and three provisionally closed. EU-linked reforms remain focused on judicial independence, public administration, the rule of law and anti-corruption enforcement.

Economy. Albania is an upper-middle-income economy driven by services, tourism, construction, agriculture, hydropower and remittances. World Bank data put 2025 GDP at about US$30.5 billion, GDP per person near US$13,000 and growth at 3.8%. Tourism and foreign investment support expansion, but emigration, an aging population, informality, uneven productivity and youth unemployment constrain longer-term convergence with the EU.

People and culture. Albanian is the official language. The population includes Muslim, Orthodox Christian and Catholic communities, and religious coexistence is a prominent feature of national life. Tirana is the political and economic center; Durrës is the principal port. Albania’s cultural identity draws on Illyrian, Ottoman, Mediterranean and European influences.

Outlook. Albania’s main opportunity is to convert EU-accession momentum, tourism growth and digitalization into higher-productivity jobs and stronger institutions. Its main vulnerabilities are demographic decline, outward migration, governance gaps, climate exposure and dependence on external demand.

Chapter 2: The Cow (Surah Baqarah)

Verse 256

Translation:

There shall be no coercion in matters of practicing your way of life (religion)¹³⁹—the right way has indeed been made distinct from the wrong way.¹⁴⁰ Therefore, whoever rejects the Devil (evil faith and practices) and puts his faith in God (truth, knowledge, and good work) has taken a firm grip on a covenant, which will not break. God is full of Hearing, Knowing.

Interpretation:

139 Two very fundamental principles of Islam are laid out here in a very succinct manner and in simple terms that are easy to understand. The first is that no one should be forced to believe in anything. God gave mankind knowledge and freedom to choose, and He does not wish that to be taken away. Forceful conversion and the trading of favors for faith, which were the hallmarks of faith for the Crusaders and Papal dictates and are the hallmarks of today’s evangelical Christians, have no place in Islam. Muslims have been relatively clean of coercing people of other faiths to become Muslim. India and Spain provide shining examples of Muslim tolerance of and respect for other faiths. Prevalent claims in the media that Islam was spread under the sword are incorrect and have no credible basis; however, the forceful conversion of Muslims and Jews in Spain is well documented, as is the persistent persecution of Palestinian Muslims and Christians. Despite our past tolerances, there has been a steady rise of intolerance in some segments of Muslim populations, which is alarming and undermines the claims by some Muslims that people of other faiths have been the more intolerant ones.

Some conservative and so-called militant Muslims have become so arrogant and insular that they feel they can dictate and force certain ways of Islam, as they understand it, onto fellow Muslims and sometimes onto people of other religions. This is very unfortunate and counterproductive and goes against the very essence of this Qur’anic injunction of not coercing others into beliefs and ways of life. The forceful imposition of practices and views, which exists in some Muslim countries and communities, is draining Muslims’ resources and energies, dividing them amongst themselves and subjecting the entire community or country to lack of material progress and human development.

140 This then brings us to the second most important principle, which is that truth and falsehood, guidance and error, and the ways of God and the ways of the Devil are very distinct and within our capability to grasp and comprehend. We need to pay attention to this gift from God to understand this principle and then make the responsible choice to follow God and shun the Devil. Educated Muslims need to educate themselves in Islamic values and principles and take active roles in revamping our educational system to prepare young Muslims for having a better understanding of Islam and the Islamic ways in which to lead productive lives.

Reflection:

Islamic principles are narrated in the Qur’an in the simplest and most eloquent terms. Yet Muslims in many places seem to be making choices contrary to the teachings of the Qur’an and the Prophet. Reading and reflecting on Qur’anic guidance and using our God-given intelligence to comprehend the true meaning and intent of God’s guidance are absolutely essential. Still, we find that too many Muslims have given up the endeavor to understand Islam and rely heavily on their imams and religious authorities similar to Christina and Jewish clerics. As I have written elsewhere in my Substack, Islam does not allow for layman vs. clergy and expects each Muslim (especially college educated) to develop basic understanding of their faith and be able to discern the fundamentals of their faith and gain confidence in their rituals and practices. Since the majority of Muslim population do not speak Arabic, not that knowing the language is a guarantee for understanding, they need to find a good translation in their native tongue. It is a generational responsibility for every community to maintain current translation of the Qur’an, rather than rely on outdated translations which may not fully reflect the contemporary challenges, aspirations, norms and unique challenges posed in every generation.

Action:

It is important for Muslims to be sincere, humble, compassionate, and active in their understanding of Islamic values and teachings. Community and political leaders everywhere need to rise to the occasion and seek the true essence of Islam that calls for the love of humanity and sincere submission to the Creator of this universe. A genuine desire to understand and to challenge ourselves, allowing critical thinking and discussion among the community members, especially our youth is going to be essential to sustain and uplift every new generation. Ritualistic interpretations tend to diminish the value and essence of faith and sometime, when forced up, may lead to apathy and dislike of our faith, of any faith in general.

You can read my Volume 1: Deciphering Faith with Rituals where I ask that you do not confine your understanding of faith only to rituals. Rituals are important and should be followed but there are purpose, values, principles behind those rituals without which rituals become empty shells. We get the satisfaction of fulfilling rituals but it does not improve our spiritual and material conditions! In the same vein to force certain views and interpretation of Islam on people, without allowing room for debates and critical thinking will also prove to be counter productive.

This is a simple and disciplined way to compete the entire Qur’an in one year. Each week we will send you the next reading materials that you can either read or listen to. There is a play button at the top right hand corner that you can click to listen to.

The Qur’an has a total of 6236 verses. We will send roughly 120-130 verses each week that you can listen or read over the weekend or weekdays as your preferred style but do maintain a weekly rhythm once established.

Whether you have read the Qur’an before or new to it, this translation of mine is written in contemporary American English and uses words and phrases that are more relevant to our time and usage. Investing less than hour each week, you will be on the way to get a good understanding of the messages of the Qur’an - to comprehend this divine scripture and if so desired, make its message a guide for your life and your pursuits!

Invite friends to join in this journey with you and together share and exchange notes, observations, and questions along the way. I am happy to provide my perspective, especially if you have questions or seek clarification. Happy readings and productive reflections!

You can see my full translation of the Qur’an in our non-profit website – Myllife.org

Week #7 includes a total of 165 verses across 2 earliest chapters ranging in sizes of 77 verses to 88 verses in each chapter (surah). These are medium-size surahs while majority of early revelations are shorter surahs. These two surahs were revealed during the early part of Prophet’s mission in Makkah, between 610-615 CE.

You will also notice that for each chapter, the English name is linked to the translation in our non-profit website where you can find additional notes to the content. The Arabic name in Red and in Italics has a link to its recitation in Arabic if you wish to listen in Arabic!

Chapter 38 - 38

Saad (Surah Al-Saad)

(88 verses in total)

In the Name of Allah, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!

Saad!

The Qur’an and its reminding! Those who deny – do so with arrogance and hostility. Yet, how many generations have We (God) removed, and they cried out (for help) – when there was no longer the option for deliverance. These people think it is wonderous that someone from among themselves has come to warn them; they say, “This is a lying enchantment. He makes all gods into a Single God? What a strange claim!”

The leaders among them say, “Stay away and follow you own gods, which is what you should do. We have never heard of such a thing in previous creeds. This is nothing but a forgery. Is he the only one among us to receive such a reminder?”

Really? They doubt My Reminder? Are they waiting for My punishment? Do they own the treasure of mercy from their God, The Mighty, the Great Giver? Is the kingdom of the heavens, the earth and everything in between theirs? Let them rise then, but the forces of such allies have been routed (before) – The people of Noah, Ad and Pharaoh were hosts who denied before as did Thamud, the people of Lot and the forest dwellers. They all rejected the messengers and consequently faced My Retribution.

They wait for nothing except for the single blast which will not be delayed. They mock, “God, bring on our portion (of the chastisement) before this day of reckoning.” (O Prophet) be patient with what they say and remember Our servant David whom We gave power, and he was always leaning (towards God). We made the mountains subservient to him, praising God at sunset and sunrise. The birds gathered in flocks, being subservient to him. We made his kingdom a stronghold, gave him wisdom and effective speech.

Has the story of the two litigants come to you? They climbed into his private chamber. When they came upon him, David was afraid. They said, “No need to fear. We are in dispute as to a wrong done by one to the other. Decide between us with justice, don’t be unjust and guide us to the right way. This is my brother who has ninety-nine ewes while I have one. He demanded that I hand over my ewe to him and he prevailed over me with his speech.” David said, “He is indeed unjust in demanding your ewe to add to his. There are many partners who does injustice to one another, except a few who believe and do good.”

David then realized that he has been tried by Us (God); so, he sought God’s forgiveness, bowed down kneeling and repented. So We granted him forgiveness, and a nearness to Us, an excellent place to come to.

“O David, surely, We (God) made you a ruler on this earth. Judge between people justly and do not follow your desire, lest it leads you away from God’s path. Those who strays from God’s path will face severe consequences as they become oblivious to the day of Reckoning!”

We did not create the heavens and the earth and all that is in-between without purpose. Only the disbeliever asserts otherwise and will face the fire for their denials. Shall We treat those who believe and do good like those who spread corruptions on earth? Shall We render those who acts responsibly with regards to God and others same as those who are wicked and respects no boundaries?

This is a book We have revealed to you – with abundant good – that they may reflect on its verses and people with genuine interest may pay attention and understand!

We gave David Solomon – an excellent servant, always leaning towards God. When well-bred and swift horses were paraded before him in the evening, he thought – my love of fine things is due to my remembrance of God – until the horses went out of sight and he said, “Bring them back to me”, and started to strike their necks and legs.

We tried Solomon (in this instance) and when We placed an emaciated body on his throne so that he turned (to God) and prayed, “My Cherisher God, forgive me and grant me a reign (kingdom) that is superior to anyone after me. You are a Great Giver!” So, We gave him power over wind, running gently by his command as he desired, and the devil – every builder and diver, and other fettered in chains – as Our generous gift, to give freely or to withhold, without constraints.

His reward is nearness to Us and that is an excellent resort!

Remember Our servant Job when he cried to his God, “The devil has afflicted me with weariness and suffering. “Let your feet urge (your ride) – here is cool water to wash with and to drink!” We restored for him his family and kins and more like them – as a show of mercy from Us and to remind those who wish to understand.

“Take in your hands few worldly goods, earn goodness with them and do not incline to falsehood.” We found him to be patient – Most excellent of a servant – always leaning towards God.

Remember Our servants – Abraham, Isaac and Jacob – men of character and vision. We increased them in faith through devotion and mindfulness of their ultimate destiny (back to Us); with Us they were truly chosen and the best!

Remember also Ishmael, Elisha and Dhul-I-Kifl – truly among the best!

This is the lesson – for the responsible ones, there is an excellent home to come to – a garden of perpetuity with gates wide-open for them, comfortably seated and requesting fruits and drinks in abundance, in the company of spouses suitable in age and likeness. This is Our provision for you – never to end!

This is how it is, whereas there is an evil place to go to for the wicked – Hell, where they will enter – what an evil place to reside! Let them taste in it boiling, dark and foul drinks and other sorts of similar (deprivations). (It will be said,) “An army of (the likes of) you are heading – no welcome for them – into the fire to face their consequences.” They (the followers to ringleaders) will say, “No, no welcome for you! You cause this consequence of ours – (to come to) this evil place! Our God, whoever made us to come here, give him more, a double punishment in this fire.” They (the ringleaders) will say, “What is wrong with us? Why don’t we see the people that we thought were bad? We used to make fun of them. How do our eyes miss them?” This is the truth – how they will contend with one another as inmates of the fire!

Say, “I am simply a warner; there is no God but God, the One, the All Powerful! The Cherisher of the heavens and the earth and what is in-between, the Almighty, the Most Forgiving!” Say: “It is a message of profound importance from which you turn away. I am not privy to the contention among the heavenly agents – only what is revealed to me, and I am a plain warner!”

When your Cherisher God said to the angels, “I am going to create a mortal from clay. Once I have completed its make and breathed into it My essence (ruh), bow down to it.” The angels – all of them – did so except Iblis. He displayed pride and became a disbeliever. God asked Iblis, “What prevented you from submitting to the one that I had created with My own hands? Are you arrogant or you think of yourself as high and mighty? Iblis replied, “I am better than it. You created it with clay whereas I am created of fire.” God said, “Exit from this place and this position; you are forsaken. My rejection will be with you till the Day of Judgment.” Iblis replied, “Let me be free till the day when these are resurrected.” God said, “yes, you are left free until that day whose time is already established.” Iblis said, “By my power, I will lead them all astray, except those of your creatures who are pure.” God said, “The truth is – and I only speak the truth – I will fill hell with you and with those who among these will follow you.”

Say (Prophet)

“I ask for no rewards, and I make no false claim.

It is a reminder to all nations!

you will all come to know for sure in due time.”

Chapter 25 - 39

The Differentiator (Surah Al-Furqan)

(77 verses in total)

In the Name of Allah, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!

Exalted is God - Who sent down a Differentiator (Furqan) to His servant so that he might serve as a warner to the world. God’s sovereignty is over the heavens and the earth, Who has not taken a son to Himself and Whose sovereignty allows no partnership. He creates everything and evolves them with precision. Yet, they take besides Him gods who create nothing while these themselves are created, who have no control to benefit or to harm themselves, and who control neither death, nor life, nor resurrection!

The deniers say, “This is nothing but lie, something he had forged, and other people had helped him with it. Thus, they have become unjust and liars. They say, “Fables from the past which he has written – now they are being read out to him mornings and evenings.”

Reply, “God has revealed it, Who knows the secrets of the heavens and the earth. God is every Forgiving, Merciful!”

The deniers say, “What a Messenger is this? He eats and goes about in the marketplace. Shouldn’t an angel be sent down to him to warn along with him? Or wealth given to him or a garden from which to get provision? The wicked ones say, “You follow none but a person under spell.” See what they compare you to! They have lost their way; so how could they find guidance?

Exalted is God, Who if He wills, can give you better things – gardens with flowing streams and palaces built for you.

It is the Hour (hour of resurrection and judgment) that they deny; such deniers of the Hour will face the consequence from the fire. When the fire comes into their sight, they will hear its raging and roaring. They will be chained and cast into a narrow confinement; there they will pray for death. (Angels say:) “Do not cry out for death once – but many times.”

Say: “Is this better or the Perpetual Garden that has been promised for those who acts responsibly? A promise of a reward and a destiny!

There they will reside and have everything they wish for – it is a promise from God worth praying for!

On the Day God will gather the deniers and their false gods they took beside God, and say, “Was it you (false god) who cause My creatures to deviate or it is they themselves that went astray? The false gods will say, “Glory be to You! It is impossible for us to take a patron other than You, but you granted them and their forefathers to enjoy life until they forgot the Reminder and became lost!” This is how the false gods will prove them to be liars. Now you can neither avoid (the consequence) nor get any help. Anyone who does wrong, God will make him face the grave consequence. God never sent anyone before you (Prophet) but they ate food and went about in the marketplaces.

God made some of you a temptation for others. Will you (Prophet) then be steadfast? Your God is always watchful!

Those who wish not to meet God, say, “Why have not angels been sent to us?” or “Why do we not see God?” They are too proud of themselves and engage in a great revolt! Yet on the day when they will meet angels (for real), there will be no good outcome for the wicked. They (angels) will say, “There is a strong barrier (between wicked and good people)!” We will account for what they have done and render them insignificant as dust, while the residents of the Garden will reside in a better home and a nicer place to rest!

On the day when the sky and the clouds split, angels will be sent, and they will descend. The sovereignty of Beneficent God will be fully manifest, and it will be a difficult day for the deniers. The wicked will bite their hands and say, “I wish I had taken the path aligned with the Messenger! Shame on me that I had taken such one as a friend instead, who led me away from the Reminder after it was brought to me.” The devil always betrays humankind!

The Messenger has said, “My Sustainer God, these, my people, treat this Qur’an like a thing forsaken!” This is how God makes for every prophet an enemy from among the wicked, while your God is sufficient as a Guide and as a Helper!

The deniers say, “Why has not this Qur’an been revealed all at once?” God does it this way to strengthen your heart and to arrange and reveal in a gradual manner to be effective. See they cannot ask a question, but We bring out and expound the truth and offer the best of explanations!

These will be gathered on their faces and driven to Hell – they are too deep in wickedness and have gone too far from the right path!

God gave Moses the Scripture (The Torah) and We (God) designated his brother Aaron as an aid for him. Then We said, “Go to the people who deny Our messages.” Then We annihilated those people as deserved. The people of Noah – they rejected the messenger; We drowned them and made them an object for lesson for humankind. For those who are wicked and unjust, a terrifying destruction is preordained as was evident for Ad, Thamud, the inhabitants of Al-Rass and generations in between. To each We gave examples with warnings and each We treated them with destruction as ordained. Certainly, they pass these towns which were rained with destruction. What! They don’t see it. Perhaps they think they will not be raised again!

Whenever they encounter you, they ridicule you – “Is this the man whom God had appointed as a messenger? He had almost gotten us away from our gods, but we adhered patiently to our belief.” But they will realize – once the consequence is upon them – who is more deviant from the path! Aren’t these the ones who have taken their desires and passion for their gods? You are in no way a guardian for them. Do you think they care to understand or hear? They are like cattle, or perhaps worse in their deviation from the path.

Do you see how God stretches the shades? If He wills, He can make it stay constant, but the sun is the cause of it, and We draw it to Ourselves little by little. It is God Who makes the night a cover for you, to sleep for rest and then brings the day as a new rising. It is God Who sends winds as glad tiding before His mercy – pure rain waters pouring down from the clouds, that He may give life to a land that appears as dead, giving drinks for the cattle and people God had created. Certainly, We repeat these messages to them so that they may be mindful, but most of humankind are prone to denying. Had it been God’s will, He would have sent a warner in every town!

Therefore, do not follow the disbelievers! Strive against them with a strenuous striving!

God is the One who makes two bodies of water flow freely, one fresh and sweet and the other bitter and salty. Between them, He puts a barrier – a secure separation! God is the One who created humankind from water and made for them relationships based on family and marriage. Your God is Able!

They serve others but God – others who can neither benefit them or harm them! Such disbelievers are ever prone to marginalize God, while We sent you (Prophet) to give good news and to warn. Say: “I wish nothing in return except that you find a way to your God and that you put your trust and reliance on the Ever-Living God, Who does not die and that you exalt God. God alone is sufficient in knowing the failings of the His creation! God Who created the heavens and the earth in six stages and assumed control on the Throne of Power, being Beneficent (to the creation)! Therefore, inquire from those who know.

When they are reminded, “Be obedient to the God of Mercy.” They say, “What is this God of Mercy? Are we going to obey just because you (Prophet) tell us so?”, only adding to their aversions.

Blessed is the God who established stars in heavens and placed the sun and the moon giving lights! God is the One Who makes the day and the night to alternate each other, so that one may be mindful, one may be thankful!

The true servants of God are those who walk on this earth with humility and when people, devoid of knowledge, address them (harshly), they say, “Peace”. They spend the night in devotion to God – standing and bowing down, and plead, “O God, spare us the chastisement of hell – the torment of which is a lasting evil – an evil place and an evil residence!”

They, when they spend, are neither extravagant nor niggardly - always following a middle path.

They do not (1) invoke any other deity with God, nor (2) slay a soul, which God has forbidden, except in the cause of justice, nor (3) commit adultery. Whoever does such things will meet appropriate reprisals – double the punishment on the day of resurrection – living in humiliation and torment!

But saved are those who repent, reaffirm their belief, and do good. God will replace their evils with good – God is Forgiving, Merciful! Whoever repents and does good – that is truly the real turning back to God. They give no false witness, and when they see vanity and frivolous acts, they avoid and pass by with dignity. They say, “Our God, make our spouses and our children a source of joy for us and make us a role model for those who act responsibly and are mindful of You.”

They will be rewarded with the highest achievements because of their constancy and patience and met with congratulations and peace! A grand outcome and a beautiful resting place to live in!

Say: “What are you without devotion to God? Indeed, you have confirmed your denials; so, wait for the inevitable!”

Congratulations! You have completed week#7. Perhaps you can share one thought or one verse that resonated with you in this week.

Don’t forget to like this post and share with others family and friends – in your neighborhood and across the continent.

May God bless you! May Allah have mercy on the World!!

Have you ever wondered how best to reflect and deal with our world today? Life happens, things go wrong, people create conflicts, businesses extract too much rent, nations exploit one another, and not to mention natural disasters, some of which are also due to our own doing.

Reasons why society moves in the wrong direction, people interact in unjust manner, and we feel lost in the malaise of constant chatter in our social media are many and as diverse as we are. Focusing on things that you do not control (at least at the present moment) may cause despair and helplessness. Instead, if we focus on what we can control and how we look at, process and interact with the world may be a better alternative. There are myriads of self-help books, scholarly discourse and attractive but deceptive solutions offered by people who are paid to create certain narratives, services and products to profit themselves.

At times I have looked at scriptures for guidance and advice which are more universal and based on values and principles that are more enduring, more effective in the long run and cost you nothing but a commitment to practice, reflect and refocus.

Below I share couple of verses from the Qur’an that I have established in my own life as anchors on how I process and deal with events, people and circumstances and I find time again that this triage - have always helped me to find the right balance, be more objective of what we face and how best to reflect and react. Let’s first read and then dive into these three things:

Chapter 103 – Declining Day (Surah Al-‘Asr)

In the Name of Allah, the God of Mercy and the Endower of Mercy!

By the declining Day^[1]

Human beings are, indeed, in a state of loss

Unless they believe (Amanu)

And do good (swaliha)

And exhort one another to truth (haqq)

And exhort one another for patience (sabr)

Chapter 90: The City (Surha Al-Balad), verse 17

Those who respond with faith

Inspire one another for patience

Inspire one another for compassion (marhamah)

The short Chapter 103 and just one verse from Chapter 17 quoted above as reproduced in simple English with the Arabic key words. Life once it begins its journey, faces constant loss and decay. One way to think about it is that every day lived, is also a day lost forever from our allotment of life on this planet, or one less day before we come face to face with our Creator.

But the only effective means to counter such loss and turn them into gain is to have a life well lived by acknowledging the Creator (establish faith) and doing good work for the self and for others, in other words to be God’s worthy agent and as the Lord’s Prayer in Christianity says, “Thy (God’s) Will will be done” through us. The defining characteristics of the people who bring out this natural harmony between faith and goodness are those who seek and establish truth in their lives and practice patience as they pursue their good works guided by the truth. Chapter 17 adds another dimension and that is of Empathy or Mercy or the ability to see things from others perspective and “do unto other what you like to be done to you” according to the teaching from the Torah.

This triangle of Truth, Patience and Empathy, clearly laid out in all scriptures, both new and old, points to some fundamental essence of human condition. We are naturally tuned for truth and know almost immediately when a false idea is forced on us directly or intimated by social media chatter. We dislike lies just like we dislike dirty things or as Walt Whitman said – “dismiss whatever insults your soul!”

Impatience is the enemy of truth and pushes people to act in haste without finding, understanding and internalizing the truth and not thinking through the implications of our actions – bad actions, but even good actions executed without adequate and deliberate deliberation. Greed, profiteering, tit-for-tat revenge mentality, consumerism and instant gratification – are all signs of impatience and moral degradation that ignores the truth or can’t wait for truth to be fully discovered.

Our national reaction to 9/11 tragedy, without understanding the truth behind what had happened and our haste in taking revenge and not address the real discontent resulted in trillion dollar mishaps of invading Afghanistan and after 20 years come back empty handed - the same Taliban in stronger control in the minefield of broken Western promises! This is also compounded by our individual and collective lack of empathy for others and for our own people, as more people had been killed overseas and at home even more died from post 9/11 neglect and denial of unhealthy aftermath in our rush to blame other and not take responsibility for caring for our own, and protecting life in general, as loss of life in 9/11 should demand if truth, patience and empathy were the currency by which we trade reaction and actions.

I have found these three aspects to govern my own life and my pursuits very rewarding and satisfying. Perhaps you can pay attention to these in your own life and incorporate them in our pursuits and decision making. TRUTH - PATIENCE - EMPATHY!!

May God bless us all!!!

^[1] It is reported in Hadith that some of the prophet’s companion would not part company until one of them recited this surah in its entirely as a reminder.

This is a simple and disciplined way to compete the entire Qur’an in one year. Each week we will send you the next reading materials that you can either read or listen to. There is a play button at the top right hand corner that you can click to listen to.

The Qur’an has a total of 6236 verses. We will send about 120-130 verses each week that you can read/listen over the weekend or weekdays as your preferred style but do maintain a weekly rhythm once established.

Whether you have read the Qur’an before or new to it, this translation of mine is written in contemporary American English and uses words and phrases that are more relevant to our time and usage. Investing less than hour each week, you will be on the way to get a good understanding of the messages of the Qur’an - to comprehend this divine scripture and if so desired, make its message a guide for your life and your pursuits!

Invite friends to join in this journey with you and together share and exchange notes, observations, and questions along the way. I am happy to provide my perspective, especially if you have questions or seek clarification. Happy readings and productive reflections!

Just a quick reminder! These are my own translation in simple American English. You can see my full translation of the Qur’an in our non-profit website – Myllife.org

Week #6 includes a total of 111 verses across 4 earliest chapters ranging in sizes of 5 verses to 55 verses in each chapter (surah). These surahs were revealed during the early part of Prophet’s mission in Makkah, 610-615 CE.

Chapter 54 - 34

The Moon (Surah Al-Qamar)

(55 verses in total)

In the Name of Allah, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!

The Hour approaches

And the moon splits!

Whenever they see a sign, they deny and say: “magnified enchantment”, giving lie and following their vain desires. But all matters are documented and there have come to them knowledge – deep insight and wisdom - that should deter; yet, it deters them not.

So (Prophet), turn away from them. (Let them contemplate) the day when the Summoner will summon them to a terrifying event – their gaze cast down, as they come out of the graves like scattered locusts – rushing towards the Summoner. The disbelievers on that day will say, “This is a day that will be difficult.”

Prior to these people, the community of Noah also denied – they rejected Our Servant (Noah) and called him mad and rebuked him. So, he called upon his Cherisher God, “I am powerless. Help me!” So, We (God) opened the gates of heaven with torrential rains and water gushing forth from springs on earth – water gathering according to a measure, for a defined purpose. We floated him on a boat made of planks and nails, moving on before Our eyes, as a reward for him who has been rejected! We also preserved it as a reminder, but is there anyone who minds? So how was My chastisement and My warning?

We have made this Qur’an easy to take lessons from but are there people who are mindful?

The community of Ad also denied – how was My chastisement and My warning? We sent over them violent wind on a day of terrible consequence – blowing people away as if the trunks of palm trees torn to pieces. So how was My chastisement and My warning?

We have made this Qur’an easy to take lessons from but are there people who are mindful?

The people of Thamud rejected the warning. They contended, “What! A lonely man among us! Shall we follow him? In that case we will be misguided and insane. How is it that only he among us has been given the reminder? He is but a great liar!

Tomorrow they will know who the liar is – as We send a she-camel to try them – so watch them (Prophet Salih) and be patient! Tell them that water should be shared between them and equitably proportioned. They called on their companion, who took (a sword) and hamstrung (the camel).

So how was My chastisement and My warning? We sent on them a single blast and they were like dry fragments that a fence maker collects.

We (God) have made the Qur’an easy to enlighten; would anyone take lessons?

The people of Lot denied the warnings. We sent against them a sandstorm, except the followers of Lot, whom We saved before dawn, as a favor from Us and as a reward to those who give thanks. He certainly warned them of Our firm grip, but they dismissed such warnings even as they tried to overpower his guests from him. So, We blinded their sights and let them taste My chastisement and My warning – a chastisement that overtook them in the morning, the remnant of which still remains! Therefore, taste My chastisement and see the consequence of My warning!

We (God) have made the Qur’an easy to enlighten; would anyone take lessons?

Certainly, the warnings reached the people of Pharaoh, but they rejected all evidence. So, We overtook them with the grip of Our Might, Our Overwhelming Power! Are you, as disbelievers, better than these or have you been guaranteed immunity from a scripture? They even assert, “We are a host united to help each other.” But soon the host will be defeated, and they will turn back and flee. The promised Hour is here, and this Hour is most disastrous and despairing! The wicked are in error and in distress as on the day when they will be dragged to the Fire with their faces down and told – “Taste the touch of Hell!”

Surely, We (God) have created everything with precision and purpose! Our command is but once and executed in the blink of an eye! We have destroyed the likes of you before – so is there anyone to pay heed? Everything they do is put in writing – everything large or small is written down.

Those who act responsibly are in gardens with rivers, secure in truth with the most Powerful Sovereign!

Chapter 113 - 35

The Dawn (Surah Al-Fajr)

(5 verses in total)

In the Name of Allah, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!

Say:

I seek refuge in the God of dawn

From the evil of His creations

From the evil of darkness as it envelopes

From the evil spells of witchcrafts

From the evil of enviers, when they envy.

Chapter 114 - 36

The People (Surah An-Nas)

(6 verses in total)

In the Name of Allah, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!

Say: I seek refuge in

The Cherisher of humankind

The Master of humankind

The God of humankind

From the evils of the whispers of the devil

Who put evil thoughts in the hearts of people

(Devils) from among Jinns and humankind (v. 1 – 6)

Chapter 50 - 37

Qaaf (Surah Al-Qaf)

(45 verses in total)

In the Name of Allah, the God of Mercy, the Endower of Mercy!

QAAF! The Noble Qur’an!

Do they wonder at the presence of a warner from among themselves? The disbelievers say, “This is strange! When we are dead and turn to dust – that is far removed (from coming back).” Whereas God surely knows what and how the earth diminishes of their presence. With God is a record that preserves! They reject the truth as it comes to them – they are in a state of constant confusion!

Do they not look at the sky above – how We have constructed it, embellished it and without any deformity? And the earth, how We had spread it, put firm mountains in it and caused all kinds of growth – beautiful, nourishing, and pleasant! These are evidence and a reminder for every soul that turns to God!

We send down from clouds rains full of blessings. Then We cause the growth of gardens, grains to harvest, tall palm trees with spiked flowers stacked one above the other – as sustenance for people to serve God. This is how We give life to a dead land – this is how resurrection to occur!

Before these people, there were the people of Noah, the inhabitants of Rass, Thamud, A’d, Pharaoh, brethren of Lot, the dwellers of thicket and people of Tubba – they all rejected their messengers. So, My threat was carried out.

Are We fatigued or weary of the first creation? See, now they doubt its renewal (resurrection)! We created humankind and We know what’s in their inner minds – We are closer to them than their jugular veins, as the two receivers receive, situated to the right and to the left – not a word one utters but there is an ever-ready guard at hand.

The agony of death comes and exposes the truth with it, something you wish to avoid. The trumpet is blown and there comes the Day of Threat – every person comes forth accompanied by a driver and a witness! You were unmindful of this reality, but now We have removed the filter, and your vision is sharp on this day. His attendants will say – here is the final outcome!

Cast into Hell – every denier and rebel against (God), forbidder of good, transgressor of (moral) bounds, doubter (of resurrection), who assigned partnership with God – cast all to the torment! His (evil) companion will say, “My Lord, I did not cause him to rebel, but he himself was straying far (from truth and justice).” God will say, “Dispute not in My presence; I did send My threat ahead of time. My Word cannot be changed, and I am not the least bit unjust to any creature.”

We will ask Hell, “Are you full?” It will reply, “Are there more?”

The Garden will be brought close to those who acted responsibly (muttaquin) – it will no longer be far off, a promise to those who always turn to God while protecting themselves (from evils), who are mindful of God in their private moments and comes (to God) with a heart full of devotion. “Come in peace! This is the day of real and lasting existence!” Here they have all they wish and with Us (God) there is even more!

How many generations have We removed before them, who were even more powerful than these, as they traversed the land – yet is there a place of refuge (from God)? We created the heavens and the earth and all that is between them in six periods without any touch of tiredness.

So, bear patiently what they say and glorify the praise of your Cherisher God before the rising of the sun and before its setting. Glorify him at night and after every devotional prayer (sujud).

Wait for the day when a caller will call out from a near place – that is the day when they will hear the call in truth, that is the day when they will come out (of graves). Indeed, We (God) give life and cause death and to Us is the final coming – the day when the earth cleaves to let them out – all rushing forth, a gathering that is easy for Us!

We know best what they say. You (Prophet) are not to force them. Remind with this Qur’an, one who is mindful of this threat!

Congratulations!! you have completed week #6.

Don’t forget to post your comments and thoughts…

You may have noticed that I have provided links to each Chapter (Surah). Link to the English name of the Chapter will take you to our non-profit website where you can see additional details to the content. The link (in Red) to the Arabic name of the Surah will take you to a link to listen to the Arabic recitation of the Surah, if you so desire.

Appreciate your commitment to this. Again, please share with family and friends who might benefit from this. Perhaps you can form a team of close friends to read each week and then have conversations/discussions among yourself. It is only through such discussions we can deepen our understanding.

Again, a short Chapter (8 verses in total) and in continuation of the previous chapter, the encouragement to the prophet continues with a reminder of God’s grace to him under past, present and future circumstances.

The previous chapter assured the Prophet that God is with him and has always been during his early life as an orphan, in his search for guidance/inspiration prior to his prophetic mission and material resources/successes in his trading mission and assignments as a trader. In this current chapter, God alludes to the fact that God has expanded his inner and outer capabilities to match the task that he has been assigned to as a Prophet. He is also reminded that every difficulty is a training ground for future success and hence, not be disheartened by his present challenges.

At this early stage of his mission, he is assured that his name eventually will be all over the world but such good news is not to make him complacent. Instead, he should double down on his effort to convey the message, engage with the community, despite their opposition and hostilities, and increase his devotion to God in worship and remembrance even when his daily tasks are numerous, consumed all his times and was emotionally very draining.

If you recall from history, he was a trader by profession, was 40 years old, had a young family with four daughters, already a civic and community leader respected and trusted by all tribes in Makkah at the time he was given this monumental mission of prophet hood. Those of you reading this and if you are in your forties with young family, perhaps you should reflect how the Prophet managed to do do what he did over a 23 year period, despite all his personal, family and financial obligations that more than 2B Muslims today consider him their role model.

I also find this chapter a constant reminder about God’s grace and his promises to those who fulfill God’s will, and the presence of personal trials each one of us undergoes to build resiliency and humility.

Here is the translation:

In the Name of Allah, the God of Mercy and Endower of Mercy!

Did We (God) not

Expand your world view?

Remove from you your burden

Weighing heavy on your back?

And raised your reputation high?

Truly, with every difficulty, there is ease

Surely, after every difficulty, there comes ease!

Therefore, when you are free (after your daily chores), exert yourself

And direct your devotion to your Cherisher God!

Given that mainstream media has lost its soul and can no longer give us, the citizens and the world, an accurate rendering of what is happening in the world due to their control by powerful corporations and wealthy individuals, we are left with our own devices and an independent media which is still nascent.

It has been five years since I have given up turning on TV or cable news since all of mainstream media has become either to propagate narrative that suits the talking point of the powerful, special interests and corporate PR or at worst obfuscate truth with manufactured falsehood. The role of mainstream media in denying the genocide in Gaza and refusing to give coverage to the carnage in Palestine is a prime example of manufactured falsehood and catering to special interest, the interest of the military industrial complex, corporate greed and undermining democratic institutions. This is very alarming, since truth telling by media is considered a fourth pillar of our democracy, the other three being the legislative, judiciary and the executive. Currently our legislative branch is controlled by money in politics with no difference between Democrats and Republicans, unable to control the lawlessness of our current executive branch. The Judiciary has been somewhat successful but still lacks the immediacy of the executive branch which can authorize illegal rules and regulations with speed and resources, undermining citizens’ rights and democratic traditions while judicial ruling comes much later once much damage has already been done.

In this context, this every other week’s summary of global events is my way of informing our subscribers, as best as I can ascertain, of the larger economic and Geo-political realities of our world. Also, the noise and immediacy of day-to-day news cycle seem to disorient us and take away the broader and more persistent trends of what is happening in the world.

My hope to summarize for you every other week key events and provide some perspectives based on the four key principles of our Substack – Justice, Truth, Goodness and Faith – as best as I can ascertain.

Overview

The period from September 2 through September 16 was dominated by overlapping security crises, pressure on strategic shipping routes, and mounting humanitarian needs. The most consequential developments centered on renewed U.S.–Iran hostilities and their effect on the Strait of Hormuz, continued Russian attacks on Ukraine, persistent conflict and displacement in Gaza and the West Bank, a sharp escalation in Yemen around the Bab al-Mandab Strait, and worsening food insecurity in Sudan and South Sudan. Together, these events reinforced a broader trend: regional wars are increasingly interconnected through energy prices, maritime trade, weapons stocks, refugee flows, and diplomatic ineptitude.

Diplomatic institutions remained active but ineffective. The United Nations opened its eighty-first General Assembly session on September 8, while the Security Council addressed Yemen, Iran sanctions, terrorism, and Sudan. Yet resolutions and emergency meetings did not produce broad ceasefires. Markets, especially large monopolies and oligopolies, use the instability to elevate energy, freight, and commodity costs to make extraordinary profits, while humanitarian agencies warned that funding shortfalls and wars of choice by wealthy nations were reducing their ability to deliver food, health care, and protection.

1. Middle East: Iran, Gaza, and Regional Spillover

U.S.–Iran confrontation and the Strait of Hormuz

At the start of the period, the United States and Iran exchanged strikes after renewed attacks and counterattacks around the Persian Gulf. U.S. officials said military and communications sites linked to Iran’s Revolutionary Guards were targeted, while Iranian authorities reported civilian casualties and retaliatory strikes against U.S. assets in several neighboring states. The inconsistency in US objectives and failure to have any coherent policy regarding why we started this war of choice to begin with and what will constitute a meaningful exit rather than constant dehumanization of Irania people and failure to protect our own assets and allies in the region will have long term consequences and loss of faith in US global leadership and reliability.

By September 16, the conflict’s strategic and fiscal burden had become more visible. Reporting cited a U.S. Congressional Budget Office estimate of $38.1 billion in Pentagon costs through August 1 and warned that missile-defense interceptor stocks had been heavily depleted. The U.S. House again voted for a measure seeking to end the war, signaling domestic political resistance even as hostilities continued. The central global concern was no longer only battlefield escalation, but prolonged disruption to energy supply, shipping insurance, inflation, and defense readiness.

Gaza and the West Bank

Violence and humanitarian strain continued in Gaza. Israeli strikes caused further deaths, damaged homes and infrastructure remained unsafe, and shortages of fuel constrained hospitals and household generators. A war-damaged apartment building collapsed on September 16, killing people sheltering inside and underscoring the continuing danger from previously damaged structures. Meanwhile, settlement expansion and settler violence in the occupied West Bank drew renewed international criticism and sharpened diplomatic disagreement over the viability of a two-state outcome.

The period also brought growing international pressure over settlement activity and civilian protection. European governments considered or announced measures aimed at products and actors connected to settlements. These actions did not alter the immediate military picture, but they indicated a widening diplomatic effort to distinguish between Israel’s internationally recognized territory and occupied areas.

Yemen and the Red Sea

Yemen entered what the United Nations described as a “new, more dangerous phase.” Houthi advances toward the Bab al-Mandab Strait—one of the world’s most important maritime chokepoints—raised fears of a wider regional conflict and further disruption to shipping between the Red Sea, Suez Canal, and Indian Ocean. Saudi Arabia reported intercepting a Houthi drone south of Mecca, while Houthi forces claimed missile and drone attacks against Saudi targets.

The United Nations warned that approximately 100,000 Yemenis had already been displaced amid the escalation. Beyond the immediate humanitarian toll, control of ports and islands near Bab al-Mandab could affect insurance rates, vessel routing, and delivery schedules worldwide. The Yemen conflict therefore became a direct component of the larger energy and trade shock emanating from the Middle East.

2. Europe: Ukraine and Continental Security

Russia and Ukraine continued long-range strikes, including attacks on energy systems and transport infrastructure, in clear violation of protecting civilians and civilian infrastructure in a war. Russian drone and missile activity extended close to NATO borders, prompting Poland to reinforce crossings with Ukraine and an Italian NATO aircraft to shoot down a suspected Russian drone over Lithuania. Ukraine reported testing new counter-drone capabilities while proposing record defense spending for the coming year.

The humanitarian operating environment also deteriorated. After repeated strikes on aid warehouses, United Nations officials considered moving some supplies underground. Ten UN warehouses had reportedly been hit during 2026, destroying millions of dollars’ worth of assistance. The attacks illustrated a wider pattern in which civilian logistics, power generation, railways, and aid distribution increasingly overlap with military objectives. The United Nations reported that civilian casualties in Ukraine during the first half of 2026 were 114 percent higher than in the same period of 2024.

Such objectives are clearly examples of war crimes, committed in broad daylight and the UN once again is proving to be ineffective as a multi-lateral body to facilitate world peace.

3. Africa: Sudan, South Sudan, and Humanitarian Stress

Sudan’s civil war continued to endanger civilians and humanitarian operations. Early in the period, an airstrike hit two UN food-aid trucks in Dilling, South Kordofan, destroying emergency supplies. On September 11, the Security Council renewed the Sudan sanctions regime and arms embargo for one month while negotiations continued over possible changes. The limited extension kept the diplomatic process alive but reflected continued disagreement over how to respond to the conflict.

South Sudan faced a collision of crises: domestic fragility, repeated weather shocks, and inflows of refugees and returnees from Sudan. More than half the population was struggling to find food; over 2.2 million children and 1.2 million pregnant or breastfeeding women needed immediate support. The World Food Program reported an immediate $86 million funding gap and a further $416 million shortfall over the following six months.

The situation demonstrated how conflict, displacement, weak infrastructure, and climate shocks reinforce one another. Reduced donor funding was forcing agencies to scale back even as need increased. Logistics were further hampered by illegal checkpoints, informal taxation, and the high cost of moving food by air or insecure river routes.

4. Global Economy, Energy, and Trade

The security crises produced an increasingly visible economic shock. Restricted or threatened passage through the Strait of Hormuz and Bab al-Mandab placed two critical energy and trade arteries under simultaneous pressure. Oil-tanker charter rates on a benchmark Gulf-to-China route reportedly exceeded $1 million per day, while commodity, shipping, and freight costs rose. Disruption in Libya, Russia, and other producing regions compounded concern that alternative supplies might not fully offset losses.

For governments and businesses, the immediate implications were higher transport and insurance expenses, inflation pressure, and greater uncertainty in energy-intensive sectors. For households, higher fuel and food prices have already become a reality, not only due these widening conflicts but also corporate greed that exploits such disruption to their favor, rather than mitigating consumer pains. Defense spending also continued to rise: Japan considered a substantially higher military-spending target, Türkiye expanded investment in domestic defense production, and Ukraine planned a record defense budget. These moves signaled a long-term shift of public resources toward security at the expense of food security, human health, and civic institutions.

The simultaneous drawing on advanced weapon stocks, public budgets, emergency food systems, and commercial shipping capacity suggested that even localized military developments could quickly produce global price and supply effects. Such dire situation continues to call for moral clarity, advocacy for human freedom and cessation of any form of aggression, no matter by whom or for whom, especially on the US and European countries.

5. Diplomacy and Multilateral Institutions

The eightieth session of the UN General Assembly closed on September 8 and the eighty-first session opened, placing renewed emphasis on the UN Charter, international law, sustainable development, and the cumulative effects of conflict, inequality, hunger, climate change, and emerging technologies. The Security Council held emergency discussions on Yemen, debated Iran sanctions and nuclear escalation risks, renewed Sudan sanctions temporarily, and while failing to question the very actions by two of its members – Russia and US – which is the cause of most of the disruptions in the world today.

Outlook and Key points to watch

· Maritime security: Any further closure, mining, or military action near the Strait of Hormuz or Bab al-Mandab could create immediate global energy and shipping consequences.

· Regional escalation: Retaliatory strikes involving Iran, the United States, Israel, Saudi Arabia, and Houthi forces carry a continuing risk of broadening the conflict.

· Ukraine spillover: Drone incidents near NATO territory and attacks on border logistics could increase pressure for stronger alliance responses.

· Humanitarian funding: Shortfalls in Sudan, South Sudan, Gaza, Yemen, and Ukraine may force agencies to narrow assistance despite increasing need.

· Inflation and fiscal pressure: Higher energy, insurance, freight, and defense costs may weaken growth and increase pressure on public budgets.

· UN diplomacy: The new General Assembly session offers opportunities for negotiation, but major-power divisions remain a barrier to enforceable settlements.

Perspective

The major disruption in the world today is caused by two super-powers – US and Russia. US, on its own volition, historical hegemony in South America and at the behest of a tiny nation of Israel that has an unsatiable appetite for dominance across the Middle East and has been embolden by unquestioned support by US and Europe and historical and unfounded paranoia about the Muslim world. Unwise and frequent use of economic sanction by US has reduced its effectiveness and caused much harm to civilian population without affecting the stronghold of authoritarian regimes. Much of US’s involvement in Afghanistan, Iraq, and now Iran is based on false intelligence and without any legitimate purpose other than show of power and humiliation of other nations and people.

Russian incursion into Ukraine, no matter how corrupt that country may be, is unjustified. Russian empire has a history of atrocities during Russian Imperial rule, during Bolshevik rule and post- perestroika period. Russian atrocities in Central Asia, curtailment of freedom of its own population in the name of communism and current oligarchical hierarchy in its economic and power structure reduces its effectiveness as a nation and global image.

Featured Country Profile — Maldives

Map of the Maldives in the Indian Ocean, with Malé and a regional locator inset.

At a glance. The Republic of Maldives is an independent archipelagic state in the north-central Indian Ocean, southwest of Sri Lanka and India. Its roughly 1,200 coral islands and sandbanks are grouped into 26 natural atolls, with about 200 islands inhabited. The capital is Malé, the currency is the Maldivian rufiyaa, and Dhivehi is the official language; English is widely used in tourism and business. The World Bank estimated the population at about 529,700 in 2025.

Government and society. Maldives is a presidential republic with an elected legislature, the People’s Majlis. President Mohamed Muizzu serves as head of state and government. Islam is the state religion and plays a central role in public life and citizenship law. The population is dispersed across many small islands, although Malé and the surrounding urban area contain a large share of residents. This geography makes the delivery of health care, education, transport, energy, and public administration unusually expensive and logistically complex.

Economy. Tourism is the principal economic engine and accounts for about 21 percent of GDP, while fisheries remain important for exports, employment, and island communities. The economy grew an estimated 6.3 percent in 2025, supported by record tourist arrivals of 2.25 million and a fisheries recovery, but growth weakened in early 2026 as Middle East conflict disrupted flights. Inflation averaged 4.0 percent in 2025. GDP was approximately $7.74 billion in 2025, or about $14,615 per person.

Economic vulnerabilities. The tourism model has delivered major gains in income and infrastructure, but it leaves the country exposed to recessions, pandemics, aviation disruptions, and geopolitical shocks. High public spending, non-concessional borrowing, large fiscal and current-account deficits, and declining foreign reserves have increased debt and liquidity pressures. Subsidies help protect household budgets but also strain public finances. Current reform priorities include better-targeted social assistance, more selective capital spending, stronger state-owned enterprises, and improved public-health spending efficiency.

Climate and environment. Maldives is among the countries most exposed to sea-level rise because its communities, infrastructure, freshwater supplies, beaches, and airports sit only slightly above the ocean. The World Bank projects sea-level rise of 0.5–0.9 meters by 2100 and estimates that adaptation to rising seas and flooding alone could require $2–4 billion. Tourism and fisheries—together accounting for nearly half of GDP and employment—depend heavily on coral reefs and marine ecosystems that are threatened by warming, bleaching, erosion, and ocean acidification.

Strategic outlook. Positioned astride major Indian Ocean sea lanes, Maldives has strategic importance beyond its size. It balances close economic and security relationships with India and China while advocating internationally for small island developing states, climate finance, and stronger global emissions reductions. Its central policy challenge is to preserve social progress and political autonomy while diversifying the economy, managing debt, and financing resilient islands, renewable energy, coastal protection, and reef conservation.