Iskh Sunnat Hai Khuda Ki, Isse Sambhal Ke Rakha Jaye

Iskh Sunnat Hai Khuda Ki, Isse Sambhal Ke Rakha Jaye

Love is a tradition of God, it should be preserved with care.

By Nasrin Kousar Jahan

The phrase "Ishq Sunnat Hai Khuda Ki, Isse Sambhal Ke Rakha Jaye" translates to "Love is a tradition of God, it should be preserved with care." This statement reflects the deep spiritual, moral, and social significance of love in Islamic teachings and human life.

Love, or "Ishq", is considered one of the fundamental elements of existence in Islamic thought. It is not merely a worldly emotion but a divine force that connects the Creator with His creation. The phrase implies that love is a sacred and divine tradition, and therefore, it should be nurtured, protected, and directed in a righteous manner.

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1. Meaning of ‘Ishq’ in Islamic Context

In Islamic spirituality, Ishq (عشق) is often categorized into three levels:

1. Ishq-e-Haqiqi (True Love - Divine Love)

   • This refers to love for Allah (SWT), which is the highest and purest form of love.
   • Many Sufi saints and scholars have emphasized that true love is only for Allah, as He is the ultimate source of all existence and mercy.
   • The Quran states:
     "And those who believe are stronger in love for Allah." (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:165)
   • The love for Allah leads one to obey His commands, seek His pleasure, and devote oneself completely to Him.

2. Ishq-e-Rasool (Love for the Prophet Muhammad ﷺ)

   • Loving Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ) is an essential part of faith.
   • The Prophet (ﷺ) himself said:
     “None of you will have faith until he loves me more than his father, his children, and all of mankind.” (Sahih Bukhari)
   • This love is reflected in following the Sunnah, his teachings, and spreading his message with sincerity.

3. Ishq-e-Majazi (Worldly Love - Love for Creation)

   • This refers to love between human beings, including love between spouses, parents and children, friends, and even love for humanity.
   • Islam does not forbid love but sets boundaries to ensure it remains pure, respectful, and aligned with divine teachings.
   • Love should never lead to sin or disobedience to Allah. Instead, it should be a means of strengthening bonds in a way that pleases Him.

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2. "Ishq Sunnat Hai Khuda Ki" – The Divine Nature of Love

The phrase suggests that love is part of God's Sunnat (tradition), meaning:

• Allah created love as a natural force in the universe.
• Allah Himself is the source of all love and mercy. He loves His creation and has instilled love in the hearts of people.
• Love is a path that leads to faith, righteousness, and the purification of the soul if kept within limits.

Examples from Islamic Teachings

• Allah’s Love for His Creation:
  The Quran states:
  “Indeed, my Lord is Merciful and Affectionate.” (Surah Hud 11:90)
• Prophet Muhammad’s (ﷺ) Love for His Ummah:
  The Prophet (ﷺ) was deeply compassionate towards his followers, always praying for their well-being and guiding them with love.
• Love in Families:
  • The bond between parents and children is a manifestation of divine love.
  • Marriage is built upon love and mercy, as stated in the Quran:
    "And He placed between you love and mercy. Indeed, in that are signs for a people who reflect." (Surah Ar-Rum 30:21)

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3. "Isse Sambhal Ke Rakha Jaye" – Preserving Love with Care

While love is divine, it must be protected and preserved responsibly to prevent it from leading to harm or sin.

How to Preserve and Guard Love?

1. By Following Islamic Principles

   • Love should be based on purity and righteousness.
   • It should not lead to unlawful relationships, deception, or harm.
   • The Prophet (ﷺ) emphasized modesty, respect, and lawful relationships in love.

2. By Avoiding Misuse of Love

   • Love should never be a reason for breaking Islamic boundaries, engaging in immorality, or harming oneself or others.
   • Many people misuse love for personal gain, which is against the principles of Islam.

3. By Prioritizing Love for Allah

   • If one’s love for anything or anyone leads them away from Allah, it should be reconsidered.
   • Love for Allah should be the guiding force behind all relationships.

4. By Strengthening Bonds through Halal Means

   • Love within the framework of marriage is encouraged.
   • Friendships and family relationships should be built on respect and sincerity.
   • Love for humanity should be based on justice and compassion.

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4. The True Essence of Love in Islam

The phrase "Ishq Sunnat Hai Khuda Ki, Isse Sambhal Ke Rakha Jaye" teaches us that:

• Love is divine, but it should be handled with responsibility.
• Love should bring people closer to righteousness, not to sin.
• Love for Allah and His Messenger (ﷺ) should be the foundation of all other forms of love.
• True love is that which aligns with Islamic values and principles.