Sun Will Inevitably Rise Again - Did We?

It is He (God) that cleaves the day-break (from the dark): He makes the night for rest and tranquility, and the sun and moon for the reckoning (of time): Such is the judgment and ordering of (Him), the Exalted in Power, the Omniscient. (Quran 6:96)

Dating, that is, the conscious process of establishing dates (as opposed to going out on a date), is one of the universal activities for societies to reinforce their own identity and reason to exist. Most cultures commemorate certain dates to celebrate their independence, mourn the death of their heroes, remember a battle or massacre, welcome a new season, honor an individual, etc. Civilizations that neglect "dates" lose their own history and heritage.

In this season as the New Solar Year unfolds, it seems necessary to place the concept of time and dates in its proper context.

The verse referred above shows us that time is the basis for setting up dates and occasions and that time is a creation of God for the convenience of humankind. Hence, dates are relative, subjective, and irrelevant in the eternal realm of life. But like all other creations, such occasions are important to reflect upon if we want to improve our chances for a safe passage from the relative to the absolute and from the temporal to the eternal.

Taking the following chapter of the Quran into consideration:

1. By (the Token of) Time (through the ages),
2. Verily Man is in loss,
3. Except such as have Faith, and do righteous deeds, and (join together) in the mutual teaching of Truth, and of Patience and Constancy (Quran 103:1-3)

We realize that time is such a precious commodity. Each solar year, many people are seen to be indulged in celebrating what is popularly known as "New Year Eve Celebrations".

There could be many ways to commemorate an event. A new year can be celebrated by staying up until the zero hour, turning lights off, cheering and then turning lights back on and hugging each other, OR

To commemorate the passing moments of one year into another by reflecting our own doings and misdoings during the last three hundred sixty five days. This can be an occasion for an honest self audit of the use of our time, resources and actions. Such a self evaluation may help us 'raise' ourselves to be a better person in the next year, which is by far better than simply turning the lights off and then back on but still continue to live in utter darkness!

The sun will inevitably rise again but only to set down; the moon will shine itself in, but only to fade out. This cycle will perpetually continue until God decides otherwise. 

It would be a true celebration only if we collectively strive for not just this coming new year but all years to come and, that our struggle will free the inhabitants of this world from the pangs of hunger to the pain of oppression.

Let us plead to God to make us among those who value occasions for the purpose of reflecting on the creations of Allah. We ask Him to assist us in continuously improving ourselves to serve Him.