Understanding Shirk and Its Importance

In many of Muhammad Qasim’s dreams, he mentions how Allah (SWT) and Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) guide him towards the straight path. A central teaching emphasized repeatedly is the avoidance of shirk (polytheism). Avoiding shirk is not only critical in Islamic teachings but also a guaranteed way to achieve immense success.

Shirk means ascribing a divine attribute to anyone or anything other than Allah (SWT). The Quran says:

“Indeed, Allah does not forgive association with Him, but He forgives what is less than that for whom He wills. And he who associates others with Allah has certainly fabricated a tremendous sin.” (Surah An-Nisa: 48)

Forms of Shirk as Highlighted in Hadith

The Prophet Muhammad (SAWS) has explained various forms of shirk, some of them explains here which Muhammad Qasim also have seen in his dreams:

• Showing off good deeds is minor shirk. (Hadith)
• Superstitious beliefs and omens are shirk. (Hadith)
• Swearing by anything other than Allah is shirk. (Hadith)
• Creating images or statues imitating Allah’s creation is shirk. (Hadith)
• Practicing magic, wearing amulets, predicting futures or casting spells is shirk. (Hadith)
• Bowing to someone other than Allah is indeed a form of shirk. (Sunan Ibn Majah, Hadith 1853)
• Relying on anything other than Allah for benefit or protection is a form of shirk because it denies the sole authority of Allah over all matters. (Jami` at-Tirmidhi, Hadith 2516, Sahih)

Modern Manifestations of Shirk

In the modern world, shirk has become more prevalent and subtle. Common examples include:

• Unnecessary images of living beings on advertisements, packages, and products.
• Movies depicting false gods and supernatural powers.
• Praising people as “the only hope” instead of attributing hope solely to Allah (SWT).

Muhammad Qasim advises avoiding such manifestations wherever possible. For instance:

• Remove unnecessary images from your personal spaces like homes and devices.
• Cover images on items like perfume bottles or packaging.
• Use plain prayer mats without patterns resembling living beings.

Guidance from Muhammad Qasim’s Dreams

Muhammad Qasim shares how Allah (SWT) repeatedly tells him in dreams that avoiding shirk is the key to success. Allah (SWT) says:

“Qasim, I will forgive every sin on the Day of Qiyamah, but I will not forgive shirk.”

Even in situations where images or representations are necessary, such as passports, currency, or medicine labels, they are permissible. However, unnecessary images should be avoided as much as possible.

Practical Steps to Avoid Shirk

Here are some practical steps Muhammad Qasim advises:

• Do not keep unnecessary images or statues in your home or pockets.
• Avoid looking at mannequins or statues in shops; divert your eyes instead.
• Do not display photos or images as wallpapers on devices.
• Say “SubhanAllah” whenever you avoid looking at shirk-related items.
• Focus on the greatness of Allah (SWT) and avoid attributing divine power to others.