By Iyan Hafiz�

The horizon blazed with a captivating blend of orange and gold as she stood on the brink of an eagerly anticipated holiday. Her heart fluttered with excitement, yet her mind was consumed by a barrage of questions about provisions and the journey ahead. How much should she pack for this venture? Striking the balance between preparedness and reliance on the journey’s unfolding was a delicate task.

In her thoughts, a majestic mountain, Mount Kinabalu, loomed tall and enigmatic. Its peaks concealed in mist, it seemed to beckon to her, extending a silent invitation to explore its trails. She pictured herself navigating the intricate terrain with the guidance of an experienced companion. The parallel with life struck her deeply – often demanding a trusted guide to help navigate its uncertainties.

With contemplation, she realized that the ascent of this mountain mirrored her own spiritual journey.

EVERY STEP SHE TOOK SYMBOLIZED A CONNECTION WITH ALLAH, WHILE EVERY STEP BACKWARD WAS A MOMENT VEILED FROM THAT SPIRITUAL AWARENESS.

The timeless wisdom echoed, “Actions are but by intention,” underscoring the essence of setting the right intentions in all her pursuits.

The notion of provisions took on a deeper significance. It wasn’t solely about physical sustenance; it represented the nourishment her heart craved. “Much like I nourish my body, I must ensure my soul receives wisdom,” she realized, understanding the value of accumulating knowledge that enriched her spirituality.

A particular Quranic verse resonated deeply with her – “And I did not create the jinn and mankind except to worship Me.” It served as a reminder that even mundane activities like eating could be infused with intention and devotion to Allah.

The analogy of a heart, either tainted by the rust of worldly distractions or a qalbun salim, healthy and attuned to Allah, struck a chord with her. Just as a car gathers dust when left unused, the heart accumulates rust that must be cleansed through acts of forgiveness and purification.

Pondering her spiritual journey, she asked herself, “At which point on the mountain am I?” The question was a poignant reminder not to allow time to slip away without making progress on her spiritual climb. The value of knowledge as spiritual armor resonated deeply. It was more than certificates or accolades; it was about adorning herself with Allah’s wisdom.

Recalling the concept of sins obstructing the flow of provisions, she remembered the potency of Istighfar (act of seeking forgiveness). Seeking forgiveness had the power to unlock doors, just as the night of Arafah brought forth divine mercy and blessings. In the passage of days, she found herself amidst the sacred first 10 days of Dhul-Hijjah. The profound influence of intentions in shaping her actions was evident. With the upcoming New Year, Muharram, she resolved to draw even closer to Allah and embody her intentions.

The peril of falling into self-satisfaction tugged at her consciousness. The image of a believer ceaselessly striving for goodness until attaining paradise served as a stern reminder against complacency. The intrinsic connection between the Arabic language and the teachings of the Prophet fascinated her. The language bore the essence of his teachings, bridging the gap between mere words and profound spiritual insight.

Renewed and resolute, she embraced her pilgrimage with profound understanding – it was not merely a physical journey. It symbolized the ascension of her soul, a step-by-step climb, each intention meticulously woven into the fabric of her experience. The provisions that adorned her path were a reminder to always look beyond the tangible and recognize the Divine Creator.

As her pilgrimage continued, she realized that every step she took was an opportunity to refine her intentions, much like the sunrise painting the sky anew each day. The lessons from her past harmoniously merged with the teachings of her faith, creating a tapestry of purpose and connection. Every step she took was an act of ascension, a journey of her heart toward attaining Allah’s pleasure. And with every step she took, her heart whispered, “Labbaik, here I am.”

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