I am a grad student and I am having a very difficult time with one of my ultra-anti-Islamic professors. He keeps on insisting that it is a barbaric religion because it cuts off peoples’ heads for blasphemy, and that it’s silly because it wants you to believe in jennies. Anyhow, I gave him Yusuf Ali’s latest edition of the Holy Qur’an. But it’s clear that his mind is already made up so at this point do I have an obligation to continue debating with him or can I just let him be? JAK.

You got it

SDW

I’m a bit confused- how is it not a trademark of a believer mentioned in the Qur’an to ask about the things of the barzakh and after life? Wouldn’t knowing about these things bring a Muslim closer to wanting to do good and wanting to stay away from evil? knowing the punishment might help deter sinful actions, and knowing the reward might help encourage one to seek the rewards with Allah ‘Azza wa Jal.

I want to be amongst those who have the trademark of the believer, bi’idnillah! I don’t understand how these questions are not a part of that. unless it’s with regards to knowing “extras” which are not necessarily beneficial. ie: making duaa for a white palace on the right side of Jannah.

And this is obviously from my own shortcomings and lack of understanding, and not at all to take away from the greatness of the Shaykh rahimahullah.