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Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) The Qur'an contains all the commands and information necessary for the... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

The Qur'an contains all the commands and information necessary for the believer's life. It is Allah's book of revelation, valid until the Day of Judgment. One of its greatest miracles is it has retained its relevance to all people, regardless of when they live, since Allah first revealed it as a guide to wisdom and the righteous path.

Its narratives concerning past nations provide guidance to people in so many ways. The lives of the Prophets, their calls to their nations, and their actual practices are examples for the believers to follow. Furthermore, the Qur'an contains signs for the future and some mysteries upon which the believers must reflect. Such is the case with Surat al-Kahf, one of its suras.

Prophet Muhammad (saas) and many Muslim scholars have pointed out Surat al-Kahf for this reason. The Qur'an's account of the Companions of the Cave (Ashab al-Kahf) and Ar-Raqim, Prophet Musa's (as) experiences with Khidhr (as) (the person of knowledge), and the account of Dhu'l-Qarnayn (as) contain many secrets and expressions hinting at the End Times.

Many prophetic hadiths connect Surat al-Kahf with the End Times. Some of them are as follows:

Related by an-Nawwas ibn Sam'an: He who among you will survive to see him (the Dajjal) should recite over him the opening verses of Surah al-Kahf. (Sahih Muslim)

Related by Abu Umamah al-Bahili: Whoever enters his (the Dajjal's) Hell, let him seek refuge with Allah and recite the opening verse of Surat al-Kahf, and it will become cool and peaceful for him, as the fire became cool and peaceful for Abraham. (Ibn Kathir)

One reason why the Prophet (saas) recommended reading Surat al-Kahf is that it contains very important signs pointing to the End Times. Surat al-Kahf contains the signs required for the believers' defense and fight against the Dajjal and the irreligious movements bringing so much evil to humanity, which he wants to spread around the world, as well as many lessons from which the Muslims can learn. Our Prophet's (saas) recommendation to memorize and read this sura attentively is a clear indication of this. As we will see throughout this book, the experiences of Ashab al-Kahf in an unbelieving world, the lessons Prophet Musa (as) learned from Khidhr (as), and Dhu'l-Qarnayn's (as) rule over the world, established to disseminate Islam's values, are matters upon which the believers need to reflect.

We will explain the reasons behind these events so that readers can ponder and meditate upon Surat al-Kahf, which contains very important signs for today, in order to gain insight into these secrets and to abide by the Prophets' (saas) advice. Attentive readers will see that this sura bears the signs of the End Times, a time near the Hour, during which the practices of systems of unbelief and falsehood become widespread and Allah sends forth the truth to destroy them.

By Allah's will, this time is very near, so much so that it has become crucial for people to reflect upon this matter. Thus, Muslims must ponder Surat al-Kahf carefully, bear its verses in mind, and analyze each verse in light of the Qur'an's other verses.

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) In the Qur'an Allah reveals a very important truth:""You will not atta... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

In the Qur'an Allah reveals a very important truth:""You will not attain true goodness until you give of what you love." " (Surah Al 'Imran, 92) Self-sacrifice, one of the basic moral qualities that allows people to attain real goodness, can enable individuals to give up, happily and without a second thought, all that they own, love, and value. When necessary, they will endure every difficulty and exert all of their energy for the sake of their values and loved ones. When faced with choosing between their own advantage and that of their loved ones, they will forego their own benefit and make the greatest physical and emotional sacrifice that they can for their loved ones.

All people are created with negative moral tendencies that direct them toward selfishness and egotism. If one's lower self is not trained, this selfishness will take control of one's moral character. Generally, such people think first - or even exclusively - about themselves. They always want the best of everything and expect to be treated with understanding and kindness. When difficulties arise, they expect others to take risks for them and support them at the cost of their own advantage. They always want to protect their own interests and comfort. When faced with adversity, they renounce whatever they value for the sake of protecting their interests and avoiding any harm to themselves. Allah describes the extent of this selfish passion:

Truly humanity was created headstrong – desperate when bad things happen, begrudging when good things come. (Surat al-Ma'arij, 19-21)

People can overcome their lower self by understanding belief in Allah and practicing the Qur'an's moral teachings. Those who grasp the truths revealed in the Qur'an and understand the morality that Allah has laid down for humanity are always able to sacrifice for others. Allah says that those who master their lower self will attain salvation in this world and the Hereafter: "The people who are protected from the avarice of their own selves are successful." (Surat at-Taghabun, 16)

Allah created the human conscience to help people avoid evil and practice the morality that pleases Him. The conscience always warns against evil and shows the way to goodness. The deep love for Allah and strong fear and respect for Him that reside in the believers' heart prevent them from being overcome by their lower self. They know that the main reasons for their existence are to win Allah's favor and to conduct themselves in ways that earn His good pleasure. They know that this earthly life is very short and that they have to work to attain success in the Hereafter. They do not forget that all of this world's benefits are transitory and that one day they will stand in Allah's Presence and account for their life. They are aware that those who pursue their own interests here, instead of trying to attain Allah's favor, mercy, and Paradise, will suffer eternal agony. In addition, they know that Allah will reward their self-sacrificial moral character with good things in this world and incomparable eternal blessings in the Hereafter:
Those who do good will have the best, and more. Neither dust nor debasement will darken their faces. They are the Companions of the Garden, remaining in it timelessly, forever. (Surah Yunus, 26)

So Allah gave them the reward of this world and the best reward of the Hereafter. Allah loves good-doers. (Surah Al 'Imran, 148)

If anyone desires the reward of this world, We will give him some of it. If anyone desires the reward of the Hereafter, We will give him some of it. We will recompense the thankful. (Surah Al 'Imran, 145)

However, self-sacrifice is far more than just giving part of one's possesssions to someone in need. For believers, it is a way of life that comes from the strength of their belief, pervades their whole life, and requires that they sensitize themselves to their surroundings. This involves feeling a sense of personal responsibility for social problems and trying to solve the problems of oppressed and needy people. Rather than thinking that the rich and powerful will take care of these problems, they consider it a moral imperative and a demand of their conscience to get involved, for being a virtuous person means to act in the knowledge that every believer who listens to his/her conscience and fears and respects Allah has a responsibility:

"Would that there had been more people with a vestige of good among the generations of those who came before you, who forbade corruption in the land, other than the few among them whom We saved. Those who did wrong gladly pursued the life of luxury that they were given and were evildoers. " (Surah Hud, 116)

This book will examine the nature of self-sacrifice from all of these angles. We will see that self-sacrifice is a moral virtue that must dominate a believer's life and that it must be lived in its totality to win Allah's favor. Basing their life on this strong understanding, believers strive toward what is good and thus serve as examples of this goodness both in this life and the Hereafter.

Some people avoid self-sacrifice, preferring this world's transient benefits to winning Allah's favor. But sooner or later, they will suffer great loss in both worlds. Thus, this book will stress the importance of this fact and call upon all believers to follow their conscience and lead lives of self-sacrifice. As Allah states in the Qur'an:

"Say: "My prayer and my rites, my living and my dying, are for Allah alone, the Lord of all the worlds." " (Surat al-An'am, 162)

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) Plants come in more than 500,000 varieties and occupy a vitally import... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

Plants come in more than 500,000 varieties and occupy a vitally important place in human life. This limitless resource, placed at mankind's disposal by Allah, is the source of the fresh air we breathe, the food we consume to survive, and much of the energy we use. Plants are also the self-renewing source of strikingly beautiful sights, delightful scents and stunning colors.

Plants are very specialized living things whose photosynthetic ability turns light into food and energy. Mechanisms in the green leaves constantly produce oxygen, cleanse the air and ensure ecological equilibrium. Their aesthetic features—such as taste, scent and color which appeal mainly to human beings—reveal the infinite knowledge, artistry, compassion and affection for human beings of Allah, their Creator. To date, only some 10,000 species of plants have been studied in detail, along with their unique systems that provide unique benefits. And this research had determined that every plant possesses features of such a kind as to astonish even the informed observer.

For those who wish to know Allah, appreciate His attributes and draw closer to Him, it will be useful to take a rather closer look at the miracles of creation to be found in plants, and even in a single leaf, and at the plants as a whole, a world so full of marvels. In this way we can find a doorway to stunning truths, ones that you may have imagined were reserved for scientists alone, offering genuine interest to any attentive individual.

With the reason and understanding bestowed on them by Allah, believers can see the miracles He has placed before their eyes. But we need to look through a lens of reason and wisdom. All those who learn to regard their surroundings with reason and wisdom will, in addition to perceiving the artistry in a flower's color, shape and perfume, also learn about the systems that make that flower what it is and thereby, bear clearer witness to the sublime knowledge and might of Allah.

He reveals that there are signs—clear indications of His existence—in the creation of Man and other living things:

And in your creation and all the creatures He has spread about,
there are Signs for people with certainty.
(Surat al-Jathiyya:4)
By examining photosynthesis, a characteristic feature of plants that helps them thrive and also support animals—as well as the flawless design of the leaves that carry out this process—you will witness the miracles that Allah continually performs in these living things.

As you read through this book you will encounter various foreign names and technical details that at first glance may seem difficult, even incomprehensible. However, they are all explained in such a way that even a reader wholly unfamiliar with the subject will have no trouble in understanding them. The important thing here is to realize that Allah has created everything in the universe, right down to the tiniest details, with His superior knowledge and delicate measurements. You can then witness and appreciate the living examples set out in the verses below:

He to Whom the kingdom of the heavens and the earth belongs. He does not have a son and He has no partner in the Kingdom. He created everything and determined it most exactly.
(Surat al-Jathiyya:2)

It is Allah Who created the seven heavens and of the earth the same number, the Command descending down through all of them, so that you might know that Allah has power over all things and that Allah encompasses all things in His knowledge.
(Surat at-Talaq:12)

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) These are some of the stories of communities which We relate unto thee... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

These are some of the stories of communities which We relate unto thee: of them some are standing, and some have been mown down (by the sickle of time). It was not We that wronged them: They wronged Their own souls: the deities, other than Allah, whom they invoked, profited them no whit when there issued the decree of thy Lord: Nor did they add aught (to their lot) but perdition! (Surah Hud: 100-101)

It is Allah Who creates man, and gives him a spiritual and physical form, lets him lead a certain course of life, and then will take him into His presence by bringing about his death. Allah creates man and as revealed in the verse "Should He not know - He that created?" (Surat al-Mulk: 14),He is the One Who knows and recognises him, who educates him and meets his needs. Therefore, the only real purpose man has in life is to praise Allah, supplicate Him and worship Him. For the same reason, the revelation of Allah communicated to people through His Messenger and the Prophet’s (saas) Sunnah are the true guidance for mankind.

The Qur’an is the last book of Allah and His only unaltered revelation.

This is why we are responsible for assuming the Qur’an as our true guide, and of being extremely meticulous about all its judgements. In addition, we are also charged with adhering to the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (saas), a mercy on all mankind.

Therefore, we need to explore very carefully and attentively what the Qur’an relates to us and contemplate it. In the Qur’an, Allah states that the purpose of the Qur’an’s revelation is to lead people to think:

Here is a Message for mankind: Let them take warning therefrom, and let them know that He is (no other than) One Allah: let men of understanding take heed. (Surah Ibrahim: 52)

The news of previous peoples which constitutes a great part of the Qur’an, is certainly one of the matters we ought to contemplate. A majority of these people rejected the prophets sent to them and, moreover, showed animosity towards them. Because of their audacity, they brought Allah’s wrath upon themselves and have been wiped off the face of the earth.

The Qur’an tells us that these cases of destruction should be a warning for succeeding generations. For instance, right after the description of the punishment given to a group of Jews who rebelled against Allah, it is revealed in the Qur’an; "So We made it an example to their own time and to their posterity, and a lesson to those who fear Allah."(Surat al-Baqara: 66)

In this book, we will review some past societies that have been destroyed because of their rebellion against Allah. Our purpose is to highlight all these incidents, each of which is an "example to their own time", so that they can set a "warning".

The second reason we are examining these destructions is to show the manifestations of the verses of the Qur’an externally in the world and confirm the authenticity of the Qur’an’s account. In the Qur’an, Allah certifies that His verses are observable in the external world: "Praise be to Allah, Who will soon show you His Signs, so that ye shall know them" (Surat an-Naml: 93), and to know and identify them is one of the primary ways leading to belief.

Nearly all the incidents of destruction related in the Qur’an have become "observable" and "identifiable" thanks to the current archive studies and archaeological finds. In this study, we will deal with the traces of some of the cases of destruction mentioned in the Qur’an. (It should be noted that some of the communities related in the Qur’an have not been included in the scope of this book, because in the Qur’an no specific time and place is given for some of them, which are only described for their rebellious conduct and antagonism towards Allah and His prophets, and for the disasters that befell them as a result. Thus, people are summoned to derive a warning from them.)

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) According to Darwinists’ erroneous way of thinking, they supposed th... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

According to Darwinists’ erroneous way of thinking, they supposed there is only one explanation for the emergence of living things in nature: All are descended from the very first living cell, which developed spontaneously as the result of blind coincidences.

Over the course of time—and again by chance—earlier species gradually transformed into other genetically different species. To put it another way, Darwinism feels that in order to account for the emergence of life, all that’s needed are coincidences, natural events and long periods of time. According to Darwinists, life emerged through a combination of these accidents, for which reason there can be no question of such concepts as reason, intelligence or even consciousness (Allah is beyond this) playing any part in the process.

From their assertion, it follows that the fossil record—and specifically, fossil skulls—should contain clear evidence of this imaginary unconscious process that took place over millions of years. If species really are descended from earlier life forms, then intermediate signs of the process should be visible throughout the fossil record. If life forms reach their most advanced forms at the end of a number of previous stages, then the number of fossilized life forms in the process of changing—from fish to reptiles, from reptiles to mammals, and from mammals to intermediate life forms that supposedly took to flying in the air, should be much greater than the number of fossils that had completed the imaginary evolutionary process.

There should be billions of such fossils, and the fictitious process of evolution should be crystal clear from them. The fossil record, therefore, should constitute one of the most important proofs of the theory of evolution.

And in fact, Charles Darwin himself was well aware of this:

If my theory be true, numberless intermediate varieties, linking most closely all the species of the same group together, must assuredly have existed. . . . Consequently, evidence of their former existence could be found only amongst fossil remains. 1

. . . the number of intermediate and transitional links, between all living and extinct species, must have been inconceivably great. 2

But the truth revealed by the fossil record is very different!

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) Take the example of two people. Assume they have both been granted wit... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

Take the example of two people. Assume they have both been granted with sufficient opportunity here on earth to earn the pleasure of Allah, and that they had been informed about what is good and what is evil; that they fulfilled their religious duties and obligations until the time of death, and spent their lives seeming as devout Muslims; and that they succeeded in all areas, that is, had good jobs and families and became respected members of the society. If people were to be asked who was the most successful of the two, in response, you might receive answers such as,"the one who was more hardworking or tenatious or who strove most strenuously." However, if we were to consider these responses carefully, we would then recognize that these defininitions of "success" are based not according to the Qur'an, but according to worldly criteria.

According to the Qur'an, neither working hard, nor growing weary, nor achieving respect or love from others is regarded as criteria of superiority. Rather, it is their belief in Islam, their good deeds done in order to gain Allah's consent, and their goodwill, nurtured in the depths of their hearts, that are regarded as the criteria of superiority in Allah's presence. Allah states this fact in the Qur'an, in regards to sacrificial offerings, as follows:

Their flesh and blood does not reach Allah but your heedfulness does reach Him. In this way He has subjected them to you so that you might proclaim Allah's greatness for the way that He has guided you. Give good news to the good-doers. (Surat al-Hajj: 37)

As mentioned, the deed done by one slaughtering a beast for the sake of Allah is appreciated by Him depending on one's devotion, or fear of Him. The meat or blood of any beast slaughtered by man calling Allah's name could not be of any value in His presence if the deed were not performed for His sake. Here, the important factors are the goodwill and sincerity felt towards Allah while performing the deed or act of worship. Therefore, a man does not ascend in virtue in the sight of Allah only by his acts of charity, his worship, his attitude, and his kind words. Of course, all these are deeds that must be accomplished by Muslims during their life times, and for which one may hope to attain great rewards on the Judgment Day. But, the most essential factor to be guarded while fulfilling all such deeds is the extent of the nearness one feels towards Allah. What is important is not the quantity of deeds accomplished, but that one turns to Allah with purity and sincerity of heart.

Sincerity is "acting by complying to Allah's orders and without considering any personal benefits or any expectations in return." A sincere person turns to Allah with his heart and aims only at winning His consent by his every single deed, step, word and prayer. Thus, he strongly believes in Allah, attaining righteousness. According to the Qur'an:

... The noblest among you in Allah's sight is the one who best performs his duty. Allah is All-Knowing, All-Aware. (Surat al-Hujurat: 13)

In many verses of the Qur'an, attention is called to good deeds performed "only to gain Allah's consent." However, some people tend to undervalue this fact. They never reflect upon the purity of the intention in their hearts in taking on a job, offering a speech, helping people or making sacrifices; all the while believing their actions to be sufficient by assuming that "they are fulfilling their religious duties." However, in the Qur'an, Allah tells us about those who strove all their lives but to no avail. If such were the case, these would be confronted with the following situation on the Day of Judgment.

Some faces on that Day will be downcast, labouring, toiling endlessly. (Surat al-Ghashiyya: 2-3)

Therefore, people will encounter one of two situations in the hereafter. Two people who had pursued similar jobs, expended similar effort, and worked with the same determination during their lives, could receive different treatment in the hereafter, because of the matter of their intentions. On the Day of Judgment, those who purified themselves will be awarded with the glad tidings of Paradise, whereas those who underestimated the value of sincerity while in this world will suffer the endless torments of Hell.

In this book, we will be referring to these two aspects of belief that render the deeds one does meaningful and worthy in Allah's sight, namely self-purification and sincerity. This book aims to warn those who fail to live their lives merely to gain Allah's consent that all their efforts could be in vain, and therefore to invite them to purify themselves before the Day of Judgment. In addition, we would also like to once again remind all believers that any thoughts, words or deeds that may diminish one's sincerity are of great consequence because of their possible consequences in the hereafter. Therefore, we would like to show all the way to guard their sincerity, by the light shed by the verses of the Qur'an.

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) No matter where you go in the world, whether you are young or old, a m... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

No matter where you go in the world, whether you are young or old, a man or a woman, you'll notice immediately that there exists a universal language in which everyone is fluent. Perhaps these people have never met one another; perhaps they live kilometers away from one another. They may come from different cultures, hold different beliefs, and speak different languages. But despite all this, they all share a common language that they know very well and use when the need arises—namely, the "silent language of evil."

This insidious language allows its speakers to do unseemly things they would never do openly, utter ugly things that they would not say directly and speak to one another in secret ways that no outsider would understand. Some hesitate to express openly the evil that lies within them because if they did so, they could provoke adverse reactions in those around them—which would not be to their benefit. But when they act in secret, they believe the subtle and intricate methods they use eliminate their risk of being found out. Indeed, those who speak in this silent language make themselves clearly understood. But because of the cunning it employs, no echo is left behind and there can be no proof.

An important question comes to mind: How did so many all around the world learn this language, with its multitude of rules? Certainly, someone must be teaching them the silent language of evil and urging them to use it in secret. The leader of evil, the one who's engaged in a merciless struggle against human beings, is satan.

Satan swore to Allah that he would teach people this language to draw them secretly into evil. With the aid of this language, he leads them to do things in secret that they would never dare to do openly. He tempts them to say things in secret that they could not utter openly. He leads people to secretly live the evil inside them instead of stamping it out. But in the Qur'an, Allah says that He has forbidden human beings to commit evil: "... you do not approach indecency – outward or inward..." (Surat al-An'am: 151)

Some who fall into this trap of satan's may avoid committing evil openly. But otherwise, they adopt satan's morality, speak his language and lead the sort of lives he wants them to lead. They seek to attain their goals and desires by applying this secret language's rules. They believe they can use the methods of this dark language to attain a good life and enjoy happiness, success and superiority. However, this stratagem of satan's cannot bring people happiness or contentment, but can only lead them into damage and destruction.

Allah warns us in the Qur'an against this danger:

O Humanity! Eat what is good and lawful on the earth. And do not follow in the footsteps of satan. He truly is an outright enemy to you. He [satan] only commands you to do evil and indecent acts and to say about Allah what you do not know. (Surat al-Baqara: 168-169)

But because some do not accept the Qur'an as their guide, they have been falling into satan's traps for centuries. Even though they have been led into misery, they cannot give up living in this system and speaking the language of evil. One of the main reasons is that this language's insidious methods have not yet been revealed. Although thousands of people around the world speak this language, no one mentions it, so its evil cannot be unmasked. Indeed, one of the main principles of this language is that it should not be unmasked. Satan's insidious system can continue only if secrecy is maintained, and only in secret can people continue to practice the evil based on this insidiousness. The fact that this universal language remains a secret is why so many follow satan with no qualms about committing evil.

Therefore, it is vital that satan's secret language of evil be brought out into the open. If that can be done, satan, with all his interference based on secrecy, will be unmasked and his methods will have no further effect on the lives of humans. He can deceive people only with these insidious methods; he can approach them only in unexpected places and spheres. Once more people came to know the methods he employs, his games would have no more effect—Allah willing.

In addition, we learn in the Qur'an that it is a believer's responsibility to stand up to evil and eradicate a morality that fosters evil: "Let there be a community among you who call to the good, and enjoin the right, and forbid the wrong. They are the ones who have success." (Surah Al 'Imran: 104) Allah tells us in the Qur'an how we are to purify our lower selves and oppose a belief system that supports satan's evil. The solution that will remove all the evil in the world is to practice the moral teachings of the Qur'an.

This book's purpose is to expose in detail satan's system that calls people to the secret practice of evil, to uncover its silent language and to show the ways to foil satan's traps. Yet another purpose is to remind individuals that they will be held responsible before Allah for evil they commit, both in secret and openly and to invite all people to practice the moral teachings of the Qur'an.

Abandon wrong action, outward and inward. Those who commit wrong action will be repaid for what they perpetrated. (Surat al-An'am: 120)

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) The universe has a perfect order. The size and position of celestial b... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

The universe has a perfect order. The size and position of celestial bodies, the speed of the universe's expansion, the Earth's place within our galaxy, the Sun and the Moon, the presence of gravity, and many other factors were created flawlessly to allow for life on Earth.

This chapter includes verses from the Qur'an which have to do with the universe, revealing some examples of God's artistry of creation.

Just as God tells us in the Qur'an "We did not create heaven and Earth and everything between them to no purpose. That is the opinion of those who do not believe..." (Qur'an, 38:27), the universe was created for a purpose. And thus, human beings are responsible for behaving in a way which acknowledges this purpose, and worshipping our Lord Who created it all.
[He is] The Originator of the heavens and Earth. When He decides on something, He just says to it, "Be!" and it is. (Qur'an, 2:117)

Praise belongs to God Who created the heavens and the Earth and appointed darkness and light. Then those who do not believe make others equal to their Lord! (Qur'an, 6:1)

It is He Who created the heavens and the Earth with truth. The day He says "Be!" it is. His speech is Truth. The Kingdom will be His on the Day the Trumpet is blown, the Knower of the unseen and the visible. He is the All-Wise, the All-Aware. (Qur'an, 6:73)

Their Messengers said: "Is there any doubt about God, the Bringer into being of the heavens and the Earth? He summons you to forgive you for your wrong actions and to defer you until a specified time." (Qur'an, 14:10)

God keeps a firm hold on the heavens and Earth, preventing them from vanishing away. And if they vanished no one could then keep hold of them. Certainly He is Most Forbearing, Ever-Forgiving. (Qur'an, 35:41)

O humanity! You are the poor in need of God whereas God is the Rich Beyond Need, the Praiseworthy. (Qur'an, 35:15)
God is my Lord and your Lord so worship Him. This is a straight path. (Qur'an, 43:64)

That is because God – He is the Truth, and what you call upon besides Him is falsehood... (Qur'an, 31:30)

The creation of the heavens and Earth is far greater than the creation of humanity. But most of humanity do not know it. (Qur'an, 40:57)

That is God, your Lord. There is no god but Him, the Creator of everything. So worship Him. He is responsible for everything. (Qur'an, 6:102)

If you ask them: "Who created the heavens and the Earth?" they will say: "God." Say: "So what do you think? If God desires harm for me, can those you call upon besides God remove His harm? Or if He desires mercy for me, can they withhold His mercy?" Say: "God is enough for me. All those who truly trust put their trust in Him." (Qur'an, 39:38)

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) Throughout history, human beings have understood the majesty of the mo... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

Throughout history, human beings have understood the majesty of the mountains and the vastness of the heavens, even through the use of their primitive methods of observation. Though, they mistakenly thought these things would exist forever. This superstitious belief formed the backbone of polytheist and materialist Greek philosophies, and of the deviant religions of Sumer and Egypt.

The Qur'an tells us that those who believe this are in grave error. One of the things that Allah (God) reveals in the Qur'an is that the universe has been created and that it will come to an end. The universe will, as will human beings and all other living things, come to an end. This ordered world, which has functioned perfectly for billions of years, is the work of our Lord, Who created everything, though it will come to a grand end at His command, and at a time that He has determined.

The appointed time when the universe and every creature in it, from microorganisms to human beings, including stars and galaxies, will come to an end, is called the "Hour" in the Qur'an. This "Hour" refers to not just any hour; but is a word used specifically in the Qur'an to refer to that time when the world will come to an end.

Along with the announcement of the end of the world, the Qur'an contains detailed descriptions of the process of that event: "When the sky bursts open," "When the oceans surge into each other," "When the mountains are pulverized," "When the sun is compacted in blackness…" The horror and panic that people will experience at this dreadful calamity is related in detail in the Qur'an; the verses emphasize that there will be no escape and no place to hide. What we can conclude from this that the end of the world will be a catastrophe such as the world has never experienced before. Details of that even may also be found in other books of ours entitled, The Day of Resurrection, Death Resurrection Hell. This present book will treat the events that will happen as the Last Day approaches.

First, it must be stated that it is clear from a number of verses of the Qur'an, that the subject of the inevitable end of the world has excited interest in every period of history. In certain verses, it is related that people had asked the Prophet Muhammad (saas) about when the end of the world would come:

They will ask you about the Hour: when is it due? … (Surat al-A'raf: 187)

They ask you about the Hour: "When will it come?" (Surat an-Nazi'at: 42)

Allah commanded the Prophet (saas) to answer this question in the following way: "… Knowledge of it rests with my Lord alone..." (Surat al-A'raf: 187), meaning that only He knows the date of the Hour. Furthermore Allah has revealed in the Qur'an that He will grant this hidden knowledge to those Messengers whom He wills:

He is the Knower of the Unseen, and does not divulge His Unseen to anyone – except a Messenger with whom He is well pleased, and then He posts sentinels before him and behind him. (Surat al-Jinn: 26-27) Allah has revealed us that He had not kept that knowledge completely out of the reach of humans with the words "I almost keep it from the knowledge of others." (And Allah knows the truth.)

The Hour is coming, I almost keep it from the knowledge of others so that every self can be repaid for its efforts. (Surah Ta-Ha: 15)

Nobody can have knowledge of the Last Hour unless Allah wills otherwise. However, one can make an estimate as to its century based on the hadiths of the Prophet (saas) and signs in the Qur'an, and say, "the Last Hour will come when there are no believers left and disbelief reigns." As a matter of fact, the great ahl al-Sunnah scholars al-Barzanji and as-Suyuti state, based on the hadith of the Prophet (saas), that the life span of the Ummah will not exceed the Islamic year 1500, in other words it will end before Islamic 1600s. Bediuzzaman Said Nursi says, again according to the information given in the hadith, that Muslims will remain on Allah's true path and will be victorious until around Islamic year 1506 with the Last Hour probably taking place in 1545 (2120 according to the Gregorian calendar).

There are many verses that tell of the Hour, and when we examine them we encounter a great truth. The time of the Hour is not indicated in the Qur'an, but those events that will happen prior to it are described. In one verse Allah relates that there are several signs of the Hour:

What are they awaiting but for the Hour to come upon them suddenly? Its Signs have already come. What good will their Reminder be to them when it does arrive? (Surah Muhammad: 18)

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) It was a bright, sunny Sunday. Faruq had gone to the forest for a picn... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

It was a bright, sunny Sunday. Faruq had gone to the forest for a picnic with his teacher and his classmates.

Faruq and his friends began playing hide and seek.

Suddenly Faruq heard a voice crying, "Be careful!" Faruq began looking to right and left, unsure of where the voice was coming from. But there was nobody there.

Later on he heard the same voice again. This time it said, "I'm down here!"

Right next to his foot Faruq noticed an insect that looked very much like an ant.

"Who are you?" he asked.

"I'm a termite," the tiny creature replied.

"I never heard of a creature called a termite," mused Faruq "Do you live alone?"

"No," replied the insect, "We live in nests in big groups. If you like I'll show you one."

Faruq agreed, and they moved off. When they arrived, what the termite showed Faruq looked like a tall building with windows in it.

"What's this?" Faruq wanted to know.

"This is our home," the termite explained "We build these ourselves."

"But you are so small," objected Faruq. "If your friends are all the same size as you, how can you possibly make something as enormous as this?"

The termite smiled. "You're right to be surprised, Faruq. For little creatures like us to be able to make places like this really is very surprising. But don't forget, this is easy for Allah, Who created us all."

"What is more, besides being very tall, our homes have other very special features to them as well. For example, we make special children's rooms, places for growing mushrooms and a queen's throne room for our homes. And we don't forget to make a ventilation system for our homes. By doing this we balance the humidity and temperature inside. And before I forget, let me tell you something else, Faruq, we are unable to see!"

Faruq was amazed "Although you are so tiny you can hardly be seen, you still build homes just like the tall buildings people make. How do you manage to do all this?"

The termite smiled again "As I said before, it is Allah Who gives us these extraordinary talents. He created us in such a way that we are able to do all these things. But now Faruq, I must go back home and help my friends."

Faruq understood: "OK, I want to go and tell my teacher and my friends what I've learned about you right away."

"Good idea, Faruq" waved the little termite, "Look after yourself. Hope to see you again."

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) We did not create the heavens and the earth and everything between the... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

We did not create the heavens and the earth and everything between them as a game. We did not create them except with truth, but most of them do not know it. (Surat ad-Dukhan: 38-39)

Some readers may think that the subject of this book is not one that interests them very much. They may tell themselves both that a book about a little insect has nothing in it for them, and that the busy pace of their lives leaves them no time for such a book.
Then again, these same people may feel that a book on economic or political research, or perhaps a novel, would be more attractive and "useful." Or they may think that books on other subjects will be of greater interest to them. Whereas the fact is that this book the reader is holding will be a great deal more "useful" than many he has hitherto read, and has much more to offer him. Because this book is not a biology text written to give detailed information about this tiny animal called the spider. The book may have the spider as its subject, but its true importance lies in the truth about life it reveals and the message it has to give.

Like a key… A key is a tool which looks pretty unimportant in itself. If you give one to a person who has never seen one before, and who is therefore unaware of the relationship between key and lock, he will consider the thing in his hand meaningless and a useless piece of metal. Whereas sometimes a key, depending upon what lies behind the door that it opens, can be one of the most valuable things in the world.

This book has been written, not with the aim of taking the spider as a subject on its own, but to use it as a "key." As for the reality behind the door which this key opens, it is the greatest truth anyone can ever discover throughout the course of his life. Because it demonstrates how baseless is the theory of evolution, propounded by people who want to deny the truth, is and provides answers to questions, answers that mankind has been searching for since the dawn of time. The answers to such fundamental questions as "Who am I?" "How were the universe and I created?" and "What is the point and meaning of life?" are the reality behind this door.

The answer is this: human beings and the universe they inhabit were created, down to the tiniest detail, by one Creator, and exist to show that He exists and to praise Him. That Creator, who has no imperfections or weaknesses, but who is infinitely powerful, is God. As God has revealed in the Qur'an, the sole reason for the existence of any human being is to understand the act of his and the universe's creation and to serve God, who is Lord of all.

It takes some effort to acquire this understanding. Part of this consists of observing everything that exists, considering it, and being able to decipher the message within. Because everything which exists, and especially every living thing in nature, is a sign of God's existence and bears witness to His being.

God draws our attention to these verses in the Qur'an, which He revealed to show the true way to the human beings He had created:

In the creation of the heavens and earth, and the alternation of the night and day, and the ships which sail the seas to people's benefit, and the water which God sends down from the sky – by which He brings the earth to life when it was dead and scatters about in it creatures of every kind – and the varying direction of the winds, and the clouds subservient between heaven and earth, there are Signs for people who use their intellect. (Surat al-Baqara: 164)

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) There are many people who have no faith in the Qur'an despite claiming... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

There are many people who have no faith in the Qur'an despite claiming to be faithful believers. They spend their lives clinging to delusions and live with contradictions and deficiencies, refusing to adopt the Qur'an as their guide. Yet, only the Qur'an provides a lifetime of true knowledge for every person and contains the secrets of God's creation in its truest and purest form. Any piece of information not based on the Qur'an is in contradiction, and therefore is a deception and an illusion. Therefore, those who do not adhere to the Qur'an live in a state of delusion. In the hereafter they will be condemned to eternal punishment (unless God wills otherwise).

In the Qur'an, along with prayers, commands, prohibitions and high moral standards, God communicates many secrets to mankind. These are truly important secrets, and an attentive eye can witness these throughout his life. No other source than the Qur'an holds these secrets. The Qur'an is the unique source of secrets that those people, no matter how intelligent, literate or astute they are, could never hope to find anywhere else.

That some people cannot see while others have a grasp of some hidden messages in the Qur'an is another secret created by God. Those who do not seek these secrets revealed in the Qur'an, live in distress and difficulty. Ironically, they never know the cause of their distress. Those who learn about these secrets of the Qur'an, on the other hand, lead an easy, joyful life.

That is because the Qur'an is clear, easy and straightforward enough to be understood by anyone. In the Qur'an, God states the following:

O Mankind! A clear proof has come to you from your Lord. We have sent down a Clear Light to you. As for those who believe in God and hold fast to Him, He will admit them into mercy and favour from Him and will guide them to Him on a straight path. (Surat an-Nisa': 174-175)

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) Around the globe, the majority of people are among the oppressed. They... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

Around the globe, the majority of people are among the oppressed. They are tortured, butchered, and live in abject poverty, are homeless, are forced to live their lives unprotected from the elements and they face disease without adequate medical care. There are those who cannot even afford a loaf of bread. There are the elderly, facing neglect, abandonment and denied medical care. Then there are those who face discrimination, expulsion from their homes and lands, even massacres simply because of their ethnicity, language, race or tribe. Helpless, malnourished, defenseless innocent children are forced to work for money or beg.

Countless people live in fear for their very lives. Millions are anxious about their daily survival, in a world in the midst of whose poverty and oppression, there is also immense extravagance, privilege and wealth. Those blessed with the "good life" pass by the homeless, see pictures in newspapers and magazines, or watch scenes on television of those less fortunate than they. Sometimes they feel a brief moment of pity, but then change the channel, turn away from the image, and in a short time completely erase that fleeting prick of the conscience.

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) Slander is one of the ugly methods used by some dishonest and immoral ... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

Slander is one of the ugly methods used by some dishonest and immoral people whose interests have been damaged, and thus are angry, and full of ill-feeling toward the people with whom they are in competition or whom they desire to hurt. There are many forms of slander, from organized and systematic schemes to a few words squeezed in between the lines. In societies that are far removed from religious morality and so do not live by Allah's will, slander is frequently used to put others in a bad light. Most of the people who will read this book have probably been slandered to one degree or another or have witnessed others being slandered.

However, this book is not concerned with the little slanders that individuals hurl at each other. Rather, it deals with an altogether different type of slander: that used by those who do not believe in religion to harm believers, whether physically or spiritually.

In the Qur’an Allah reveals that all of His messengers and other devout people who called their societies to abide by the Qur’an’s morality stood accused of avarice, madness, arrogance, theft, and fornication. The Prophet Joseph’s (as) life was full of such examples of slander, as were those of the Prophets Moses (as), Solomon (as), and even the Prophet Muhammad (saas). Likewise Mary (as), the mother of the Prophet Jesus (as); A’isha, the wife of our Prophet (saas); and his Companions were all exposed to slander. These people always displayed exemplary patience and reliance upon Allah when confronted with slander, disregarded the unbelievers’ such efforts, and continued to live by the morality ordained by Allah and invite people to the righteous path.

No doubt, such determination is exemplary. Allah reveals: “Or did you suppose that you would enter the Garden without facing the same as those who came before you?” (Surat al-Baqara, 214). In other words, it is one of Allah’s laws that all Muslims, regardless of when and where they live, will be slandered and pressured to abandon the Qur’an’s morality. In another verse, Allah reveals that all believers will hear hurtful words from the unbelievers and will be tested in their possessions and in themselves:

You will be tested in your wealth and in yourselves, and you will hear many abusive words from those given the Book before you and from those who associate [others with Me]. But if you are steadfast and guard against evil, that is the most resolute course to take. (Surah Al ‘Imran, 186)

Every righteous and devout believer who encounters such a situation desires to display the same patience, trust in Allah, sincerity, and determination as those earlier believers. Therefore, they are not shocked or saddened, nor do they give way to despair, when the tests mentioned in the Qur’an are sent to them. Instead, to the surprise of the slanderers, they show even greater zeal and joy.

Likewise, when another believer is slandered, his or her fellow believers receive it with patience and zeal, and they rely upon Allah. They believe that, provided that he or she shows patience, their slandered brother or sister will earn Allah’s mercy and bounty in this world, as well as our Lord’s good pleasure and Paradise in the Hereafter.

There is a great benefit in revealing another aspect of slander: Unlike other slanders, the logic of “If you throw enough dirt, some of it will stick” does not work on believers. Regardless of its apparent severity, in the end it will be known that these devout people have a pure and good character. Both Mary (as) and the Prophet Joseph (as) are known to history as symbols of chastity. The Prophet Joseph's (as) brothers also accused him of various things, but within his lifetime he was recognized as a very trustworthy person and thus was appointed over the stores of Egypt.

All of this shows us a very important reality: It is Allah's will that every plan aimed against believers is destined to be stillborn, and that every piece of slander will come to nothing. Every hurtful word will return to its speaker. In other words, every speech, deed, and cruelty directed against believers will cause the slanderer to feel deep regret in both this world and in the Hereafter, unless he repents and puts his actions right. Allah reveals the fate awaiting those who slander His messengers and devout servants:

As for those who abuse Allah and His messenger, Allah’s curse is on them in this world and in the Hereafter. He has prepared a humiliating punishment for them. And those who abuse believing men and women, when they have not merited it, bear the weight of slander and clear wrongdoing. (Surat al-Ahzab, 57-58)

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) Among the people there are some who say, "We believe in Allah and the ... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

Among the people there are some who say, "We believe in Allah and the Last Day," when they are not believers. They think they deceive Allah and those who believe. They deceive no one but themselves, but they are not aware of it. There is a sickness in their hearts and Allah has increased their sickness. They will have a painful punishment on account of their denial.
(Surat al-Baqara: 8-10)

To most people, the word hypocrite does not mean much. Some interpret it as meaning "two-faced" or "liar," as they use it in everyday speech, but remain unaware of its significance in the Qur'an. People with some knowledge of religion, on the other hand, think of the hypocrites as a group of deniers who mainly lived at the time of our Prophet (May Allah bless him and grant him peace [saas]).

The fact is, the hypocrites are a group whom Allah mentions in hundreds of verses of the Qur'an and He reminds us to be on our guard against them. From the Qur'an, we also learn that hypocrites as a group are not encountered only infrequently, but on the contrary, they are "organized" within every community of believers.

When we look into the Qur'an, we can see that this rule applies to all times: to the followers who accompanied the Prophet Musa (peace be upon him [as]), to those who believed in the Prophet Sulayman (as), to the community of the Prophet Ibrahim (as), to that of our Prophet (saas) who lived 1,400 years ago—in short, whatever Muslim community the Qur'an mentions, one can see that there were hypocrites within it. That is because, as the verse reveals, "This is Allah's pattern with those who passed away before. You will not find any alteration in Allah's pattern" (Surat al-Ahzab: 62), Allah tests every community of believers in similar ways. If there is any community of believers, then inevitably there will be a group of hypocrites within it. This is an unchanging law of Allah.

For that reason, Allah reveals in many verses of the Qur'an the characteristics of this community that represents a danger to believers. And therefore, hypocrites are one of the kinds of people most often described in the Qur'an.

These people are able to live, sometimes for many years, among those sincere believers who totally dedicate their lives to Allah. They pretend to be like those who struggle on His path, dedicating their lives and property. But in fact, they are nothing of the sort and are concerned solely with their own interests. This group has been seen in every true and honest community of believers throughout history. Indeed, as stated above, the Qur'an provides a great deal of information about the hypocrites in the communities of many prophets, including Prophet Muhammad (saas).

In this book, we shall be examining one by one the characteristics of hypocrites, with the details set forth in the Qur'an. We shall then turn our focus on self-satisfaction, a major defect that hypocrites suffer from.

As later chapters will consider in detail, self-satisfaction is one of the most important distinguishing features of hypocrites. Anyone with a hypocritical character imagines himself to have no need of anything and to be always on the right path. For that reason, as revealed in the verses, "No indeed! Truly man is unbridled seeing himself as self-sufficient" (Surat al-'Alaq: 6-7), their unbridled nature and denial constantly increase. Since they regard themselves as superior to others and independent of all needs, they are unable to submit to the commandments of Allah or to take advice.

But the better to understand the true character of the hypocrites and their perverted logic, we first need to grasp the difference between the hypocrite and the typical denying personality.

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) Without their knowing, a superstitious religion has brought the great ... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

Without their knowing, a superstitious religion has brought the great majority of people under its sway. This hidden religion never openly reveals itself. It has no written commandments, but it controls people's behavior, attitudes and thoughts. People unconsciously implement this religion's rules throughout their lives, and live by its structures and prohibitions. This superstitious religion is not Islam, Christianity or Judaism. When asked, many people who abide by this false religion may well describe themselves as Muslims or Christians or Jews. They may even be atheists. But nevertheless, all are actually members of this secret belief system.

This false religion never presents itself to people as a unified whole. People adopt it as the result of the steady propaganda they are subjected to from birth. Therefore, they're unaware that their behavior, thoughts, and even body language derive from this religion.

To its adherents, this superstitious religion portrays its goal as becoming a respected person. To do so means adopting the value judgments of this religion, implementing its laws, prohibitions and forms of behavior, and assuming its character traits. To be respected is essential to achieve a specific accepted station in society, and not regarded as an eccentric, not out of the ordinary.

This religion is therefore an ignorant one, which is how we'll refer to it for short. Ignorant religion propels people towards insincerity, toward artificial and affected behavior. Adherents of this false religion do not generally behave naturally and spontaneously. They employ modes of behavior, speech and facial expressions in a way they think will be appropriate, and engage in constant role-playing. Yet they imagine that they are living exceedingly natural and normal lives.

This false system produces insincere, artificial human models with false identities. Why does such an evil religion, bringing with it all kinds of trouble and suffering, hold large sections of society under its sway? The most important reason is, as already mentioned, that it lacks any formal name. Adherents of this wicked religion never even think to question, abandon or change it, because they are unaware that the system they live under is actually a religion, and regard it as "the facts, "or" the immutable laws of life."

As long as people fail to remedy this situation and turn away from the religion of the ignorant, they cannot properly comprehend and live by Islam, because sincerity and naturalness are among the fundamental tenets of Islam. A person can live by Islam, and thus achieve true happiness and salvation, only by being uncompromisingly sincere towards Allah, himself and others. Faith can only be built on a foundation of sincerity. In order to free yourself of the effect of the Religion of the Ignorant, that satanic religion must first be identified and defined. That is the aim of this book. The following chapters shall examine the characteristics of Ignorantism in some detail.

The reader's task is to personally weigh and review the characteristics of this false religion. One may be reluctant to admit it, but the Religion of the Ignorant can exert a definite effect on anyone. Ridding yourself of this dark religion that impacts on every moment of people's lives calls, first and foremost, for close attention and sincerity.

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) The End Times (or the Last Days) may not be a familiar concept to many... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

The End Times (or the Last Days) may not be a familiar concept to many people. Therefore, we first give a brief explanation of it. The End Times means 'the last era.' According to Islamic literature, it is a period of time that is close to the Last Day.

The signs in the Qur'an and the extensive references to the End Times provided in the Hadith literature brings us to a very important conclusion. It is indicated in verses and hadiths that there are two phases of the End Times. The first phase is a period when all people will suffer material and spiritual problems. Following this, Earth will enter upon a period of salvation called the 'Golden Age,' which is characterized by bounty and blessings due to the prevalence of true religious moral values. With the end of the Golden Age, there will be a rapid social collapse and people will begin to wait for the Last Day.

In this book, we examine the End Times in the light of verses and hadiths. It is clear that the signs in question have now started to appear one after another, just as described in these references. The advent of these signs heralded fourteen centuries ago are great occurrences that increase believers' faith in and loyalty to Allah. It is surely not a coincidence that, in such a short period of time, all of these signs appeared one after another. These signs are good news to Allah's servants.

The account of events related in the following pages is prepared according to the guidance of the verse, 'Say: 'Praise be to Allah. He will show you His signs, and you will recognize them. Your Lord is not unaware of what you do'' (Surat an-Naml: 93).

Another issue we need to stress here is that Allah knows the best of everything. As is in every other subject, we have no knowledge other than that about which He informs us.

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) When we think of a superficial person as understood by most people, ge... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

When we think of a superficial person as understood by most people, generally we imagine an individual ignorant of the rules of etiquette; one who is uneducated, uninformed, immoderate and who often does not know how to behave in certain situations. But what this book will dwell on is not the kind of superficiality as generally understood; we will discuss, in terms of religious morality, how superficiality can become a spiritual state. The superficiality we will examine here is much deeper, more radical: a sickness that is more serious than commonly understood. And, unless Allah wills otherwise, it is a great danger that can draw a person into Hell.

We will discuss the superficiality that infects a person's behavior and thinking when he does not expand his spirit according to the moral teaching of the Qur'an and is unwilling to draw closer to Allah and seek His favor. This superficiality manifests itself when a person has only a weak grasp of Allah's infinite power, of the purposes that lie behind events that transpire in the world at large, and of the true meaning of life. There is a total difference between moral character of a true Muslim, who comprehends Allah's existence and mighty power, and the character, personality and behavior of a superficial person who thinks too little, if at all. Muslims have nobility of spirit, high personal qualities and a deep understanding, whereas superficial individuals are debased by the weakness of their character.

Superficiality—an aberration in behavior, thinking and speaking—stems from a basic inner poverty that, for some individuals, becomes a way of life. But when we speak of superficiality, we must not get the wrong impression. Natural, unpremeditated behavior is not superficial; being natural has its own appealing beauty and integrity. Therefore, avoiding superficiality does not mean restricting spontaneity. Superficiality is quite something different; it comes not from the natural expression of intimacy but from a closed consciousness that remains unaware of compulsive, negative, and trivial behavior that goes against religious morality. In ignorant societies, some individuals think that avoiding superficiality entails a false show of sobriety and dignity. But these individuals have another behavioral aberration at least as false and compulsive as superficiality; they think that dignity requires coolness, officiousness, haughtiness and artificial refinement in behavior.

However, the way to avoid superficiality is not through false dignity, but only through the moral teachings of the Qur'an. Many people see superficiality as an inevitable fact of life. Regarding it as normal, they are not made uncomfortable by either their own or others' behavior in this regard. On the contrary, they urge this unseemly behavior on one another and feel obliged to practice the same superficial behavior that everyone else does. So conditioned are they in this regard that superficiality—with its ways of speaking and thinking and its particular codes of behavior—actually becomes a sort of false religion. However, superficiality is a major behavioral aberration that prevents any individual from living a good moral life, developing a quality personality and thinking admirable thoughts. Anyone who adopts this false "Religion of Superficiality" can never practice true religious morality, even if he claims to be religious. He may claim that he is a Muslim and believes in Allah, but so long as he is not saved from this superficial sickness, he cannot practice the moral teachings of the Qur'an in any valid sense. In this regard, the Qur'an tells us about the shallow and superficial moral understanding of a group of individuals: a group of Bedouins who lived in the time of the Prophet Muhammad (saas). The following chapters will examine the superficial behavior and way of thinking of these Bedouins in the light of the Qur'an. Allah reveals that they were different from real Muslims and that faith had not really taken root in their hearts:

The desert Arabs say, "We believe." Say: "You do not believe." Say rather, "We have become Muslim," for faith has not yet entered into your hearts. (Surat al-Hujurat: 14)
True Muslims who fashion their behavior purely according to the moral teachings of the Qur'an avoid shallow behavior and superficial thinking because they lead a moral life that Allah has chosen for them and that is most befitting their nature. Everything they do, say and think reflects their depth of noble spirit. Muslims judge everything on the basis of the Qur'an and, for this reason,—by relying on what Allah reveals in the Qur'an—they are keenly able to discern superficiality. Individuals who live a superficial life see no great danger in it. And as long as they think that superficiality is a fact of life, they cannot become aware of the harm it does them. Yet superficiality is a debased and blemished culture, totally removed from the morality and understanding of the Qur'an; and it prevents an individual from living the life of a Muslim.

Some people call themselves religious, even though they are far removed from practicing religious morality. This book examines every aspect of the debased culture into which these people have fallen—and offers a solution.

Never forget, those who live debased by superficiality are still responsible for their lives. Such people who live far from the Qur'an and the subtleties of its moral teaching, pursuing superficial ideals, do not consider that they will be held accountable for their lives. And when they see the angels of death coming to take their souls, they will awaken up to the profound error that they have been living. But this awakening comes too late. This is because the purpose of human creation is for them to live their lives practicing a morality that is pleasing to Allah, and the worst possible time for them to realize that purpose is at the moment of death when this life is about to be left behind.

Allah tells us of the reward in the world to come that awaits those who do not renounce superficiality in this world and fail to submit to the true moral teachings of the Qur'an:

Those who did evil used to laugh at those who believed. When they passed by them, they would wink at one another. When they returned to their families, they would make a joke of them. When they saw them, they would say, "Those people are misguided." But they were not sent as guardians over them. So today those who believe are laughing at the disbelievers, on couches, gazing in wonder. Have the disbelievers been rewarded for what they did? (Surat al-Mutaffifin: 29-36)

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) And the Moon is eclipsed, and the Sun and the Moon are fused together,... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

And the Moon is eclipsed, and the Sun and the Moon are fused together, on that Day man will ask: "Where can I run?" No indeed! There will be no safe place.
That Day, the only resting place will be your Lord.
(Surat al-Qiyama, 8-12)
Consider the people and events that shape your life. You are working hard to get somewhere, trying to find your place in the struggle for a good life. You are very attentive to some matters and reflect deeply upon them. At the same time, you carefully avoid thinking about other matters and, as it happens, many people close to you do the same. Everyone knows what subjects to avoid in conversation and thought. Death is one of these, perhaps the most important one. For them, death is an "end" to which there is no solution.

The Day of Judgment, which will bring "death" to the universe just like the death of people, is a matter that most people do not like to think about; rather, they consider it as a remote and distant matter. Most of them have a vague idea of what will happen on that Day, but since the thought of it scares them, most people are inclined to forget about it. Rather than facing up to it, they just get on with their lives instead.

People are most affected by the final day aspect of this Day for all beings, whether living or non-living. The Day of Judgment is the final day of life on Earth and for the universe. But at the same time, it is the beginning of the eternal life in the Hereafter. On that Day, people will be resurrected, created anew. The one who believe in Allah and the Hereafter and live a sincere life will be hosted in Paradise, whereas unbelievers will be driven to Hell. Therefore, for those who expect such a Day, fully aware of what this event means, it is meaningless to run away from death, the Day of Judgment, and the Hereafter. To the contrary, the reality of death and the events of that Day will lead people to do good in the cause of Allah, direct them to believe in the Hereafter, and bring them closer to Allah. Only the believers will be spared the great fear on that Day, on which previously unseen events will take place, for Allah reveals that they will have no cause for fear or sadness, for:

Not so! All who submit themselves completely to Allah and are good-doers will find their reward with their Lord. They will feel no fear and know no sorrow. (Surat al-Baqara, 112)
Those who believed in this Day and in the Qur'an, as well as that the real life is in the Hereafter, while alive and lived accordingly will be safe. They did not disregard the existence of death and were not too vain to worship Allah. Such people will be received in the most pleasant way in the Hereafter, and Allah's guiding light will be with them on the Day of Judgment. The faithful are given the good news in the Qur'an, as follows:

… on the Day when Allah will not disgrace the Prophet and those who believed along with him. Their light will stream out ahead of them and on their right. They will say: "Our Lord, perfect our light for us and forgive us! You have power over all things." (Surat at-Tahrim, 8)
This book reveals the Day and its events, and warns of its difficulties. What matters most is that the Day of Judgment is a reality for all people and, as such, should not be ignored. This book will help you to think about its existence and reality in the light of the Qur'an's verses.

The purpose here is to warn you of a Day on which you will meet whatever happens, and to guide you to safety and the eternal life in Paradise. The reality of this Day's mind-blowing events is an important factor in driving people to reflect upon it. For this reason, throughout this book we will describe the details of the time leading up to the Day of Judgment and investigate its reality.

Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya) It (the Qur'an) is a Book We have sent down to you, full of blessing, ... more Adnan Oktar (Harun Yahya)

It (the Qur'an) is a Book We have sent down to you, full of blessing,
so let men of understanding ponder its signs and take heed.
(Qur'an, 38:29)

In societies where the practise of religion has lapsed, it is often the case that what is true comes to be regarded as false, and, conversely, what is false is regarded as true. While encouraging and promoting an errant belief system disapproved by God, these societies may come to consider the correct belief system as inadequate or even undesirable. The confusion of what is perverse with what is true is common to non-religious societies; a condition which permeates their very structure.

Romanticism is one such falsehood that is erroneously thought to be "true." In a society where people do not live by the true religion, romanticism is portrayed as a favourable quality peculiar to compassionate, good people. However, as will be explored point by point in this book, sentimental longing is a dangerous sentiment to adopt. Essentially, one of the most harmful characteristics of romanticism, and from which we must be on our guard, is that it rejects "reason" as contrary to its philosophy.

The purpose of this book, in dealing with the subject of romanticism, is to draw attention to the fact that, while it may appear harmless, in actuality, it is an attitude that leads to certain surprising dangers. Although romanticism may appear to be an outlook not far out of the ordinary, this book will demonstrate how serious a peril it poses, both to society and the individual. And, of course, this book will show how easy it is to avoid such a pitfall; that is, by turning to the Qu'ran as the only guidance that God has bestowed upon humanity. We will provide numerous examples to make clear the point that when one follows the Qur'an, one cannot abandon reason for the sake of emotionally based principles.