Buying and selling shares in a company is permissible for a Muslim if the company conducts legitimate business. However, involvement with a company that manufactures alcohol is prohibited, making any shareholding or trade in it unlawful. Speculation within stock exchanges is also considered haram. Basic share trading itself is not forbidden, but additional complexities can render it impermissible.

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This lecture explores the distinction between Islam and Iman (faith). The speaker clarifies that simply professing Islam is insufficient; true faith requires the internalization of belief within the heart. The Quranic verse from Surah Al-Hujurat, chapter 49, verse 14, highlights the difference between outward submission and genuine belief. The speaker elaborates on the verse in Surah Al-Saf, chapter 6, verse 10, which emphasizes the need for a faith free from doubt and supported by striving in the path of Allah with wealth and life. The lecture emphasizes that a complete faith is demonstrated through both belief and action, and that true believers continuously strive to deepen their connection with Allah.

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Umar bin Abd Wud, a renowned Arab warrior and skilled horseman, challenged the Muslims during a siege. He fearlessly crossed the trench surrounding Medina, seeking a worthy opponent. Hazrat Ali (RA) stepped forward, offering Umar bin Abd Wud three opportunities to make a request before engaging in combat. Umar initially demanded the acceptance of Islam, then asked for safe passage, both of which Ali refused. Finally, Umar challenged Ali to a duel. Ali accepted, ultimately defeating and killing Umar bin Abd Wud, demonstrating courage and faith.

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This lecture clarifies that true support and reliance should only be placed in Allah. The world is full of false hopes and dependencies. People often seek help from others, believing they will provide assistance, but these relationships are ultimately fragile and unreliable, like spiderwebs. True strength comes from a connection with Allah alone. Seeking support from anyone or anything other than Allah is a mistake, as only He is the ultimate protector and provider. This concept emphasizes the importance of tawakkul (trust in Allah) and the transient nature of worldly relationships.

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The foundational step to demonstrating true faith involves abstaining from interest, upholding modesty within the home, eliminating unlawful earnings, and diligently fulfilling religious obligations like prayer, fasting, pilgrimage, and charity. Acting upon aspects of Islamic law, even amidst difficulty, is compulsory. Those unable to practice should refrain from claiming allegiance to Islam or advocating for its dominance, as hypocritical behavior damages the religion’s reputation. Consistent personal practice is essential before promoting Islamic ideals.

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True prayer transcends ritual; it’s a direct communion with God, achieving a spiritual ascent akin to *mi'raj*. This lecture emphasizes that the essence of prayer lies in a conscious awareness of God’s presence and heartfelt submission. Without this spiritual awakening, even diligent performance of obligatory prayers remains incomplete. The speaker stresses that a dormant or ‘dead’ soul cannot experience this profound connection. Reviving the soul is crucial to unlock the true potential of prayer and achieve a state of direct communication with the Divine.

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