Bismillah,
Righteousness is speaking the truth against falsehood…
Despite the consequences.
Even if the consequence is death itself.
Today, we delve into the inspiring life and noble sacrifice of Prophet Yahya (AS), highlighting his unwavering commitment to righteousness, courage in the face of adversity, and ultimate martyrdom for the sake of truth.
Background
Prophet Yahya (AS), known as John the Baptist in Christian tradition, was chosen by Allah (SWT) to continue the prophetic legacy and guide his people towards the path of righteousness.
He was born to Prophet Zakariyah (AS) and his righteous wife through a miraculous birth.
Yahya (AS) was the maternal-cousin of Isa (AS).
Prophethood
Yahya (AS) devoted himself to the divine mission of calling his people to repentance and righteousness. He emphasized the importance of purifying the soul, upholding moral integrity, and preparing for the coming of the Messiah.
Prophet Yahya (AS) fearlessly confronted the unjust rulers of his time, including King Herod, who engaged in immoral and oppressive practices.
Despite facing persecution and threats to his life, Yahya (AS) remained steadfast in his commitment to truth and justice, refusing to compromise his principles.
Yahya (AS) ultimately sacrificed his life for the sake of truth and righteousness, which led to martyrdom.
Legacy
Prophet Yahya (AS) left behind a legacy of righteousness, courage, and martyrdom.
His noble sacrifice continues to inspire believers to stand firm in the face of oppression and injustice, upholding truth and righteousness regardless of the consequences.
Ultimately, Yahya (AS) was honoured with martyrdom, the highest rank to attain for the afterlife.
Whilst his murderers were punished by other armies, destroying their ungodly kingdom.
Application Today
Death is inevitable.
Therefore, we must strive to live the most honourable of lives.
We will all be accountable for our actions, and in this case inactions.
We are complicit in a wrong action if we observe it and don’t try to stop it or speak against it.
We must stand for the truth, no matter the consequences.
Whether that’s speaking against tyranny (Free Palestine)…
Or telling the truth about a mistake you made at work.
We must strive to be truthful in all endeavours.
Despite the consequences.
Allah (SWT) will elevate our ranks in the afterlife if we do so.
May we emulate Yahya’s (AS) virtues in our own lives, striving to uphold righteousness, courage, integrity, and unwavering commitment to divine principles amidst the falsehood of today’s world.
Ameen!
فَنَادَتْهُ ٱلْمَلَـٰٓئِكَةُ وَهُوَ قَآئِمٌۭ يُصَلِّى فِى ٱلْمِحْرَابِ أَنَّ ٱللَّهَ يُبَشِّرُكَ بِيَحْيَىٰ مُصَدِّقًۢا بِكَلِمَةٍۢ مِّنَ ٱللَّهِ وَسَيِّدًۭا وَحَصُورًۭا وَنَبِيًّۭا مِّنَ ٱلصَّـٰلِحِينَSo the angels called out to him while he stood praying in the sanctuary, “Allah gives you good news of ˹the birth of˺ John who will confirm the Word of Allah and will be a great leader, chaste, and a prophet among the righteous.”
SURAH AL-IMRAN (3:39):