Pick your Battles Wisely - Ramadhan Reflections 2019 [Day 22]

For the present Allah has lightened your burden, for He knows that there is yet some weakness in you, thus, if there be of you one hundred persevering and steadfast persons they shall (still) overcome (at least) two hundred and if there be a thousand of you they shall overcome two thousand by the leave of Allah. And Allah is with the steadfast. (8:66)

Commentary

NUMBER 200: If we study verse 65 and 66 of Sūrah al-Anfāl, it seems like there is either a ‘confusion’ in the numbers; either one verse was meant to abrogate the other OR one speaks about a recommendation while the other addresses an obligation.

In actuality, a majority of commentators of the Quran have stated that the apparent ‘contradiction’ which exists in these verses should actually be taken as different responsibilities when faced with different situations.

In one case we are told that when the Muslims are up against spiritual weaknesses amongst their ranks and lethargy has taken over the Muslims and we find that there are people who are inexperienced or not ready to take on the challenges, then we need to have more support and reinforcements to defend ourselves.

However when the Muslim community is stronger, and there are people who have experience and the skills needed to fend off the attacks of the aggressors – and they have strong, unwavering faith, just as we see in the Battle of Badr or in the Tragedy of Kerbala, then even if the Muslims are outnumbered ten to one, they will still be victorious because of their strong inner beings.

Thus, these two rulings, found in these two verses, meaning verses 65 and 66 of Sūrah al-Anfāl are in regards to two distinct groups of Muslims under unique circumstances, and tells the Muslims that we should never wait until our quantities are at par with our opponents. Even if we are outnumbered, we need to build our faith, conviction, patience and fortitude and press ahead against our enemies.

Point of Reflection

True success and failure must never be measured by numbers – in all areas of our lives. But at the same time, we need to know which ‘battles’ to fight and which to walk away from until we are ready and equipped – mentally, spiritually and when needed, physically.