EXPOSITION HQ 17:1
17.1 Subhaana / swim in the knowledge is the one who (took) asra' / spiritual journey by His abdina / servant, lailan / a darkness (not having insights) from al masjidil al haram / the forbidden (unhealthy mind) state of submission (like destitute mind, cruel mind, magnifying thoughts, thoughts hinder rational thinking, etc) to al masjid al aqsa / the state of submission with remote infinite insights (of the truth), whose surroundings We have blessed, to show him of Our ayaati / signs. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Seeing.
Allah commands in verse 91 of Surah An-Nahl that we must honor our covenant with Him and not break our oaths after having solemnly agreed to the terms of this sacred commitment, wherein we have called upon Allah as our witness. We are urged to remain devoted to the sincere pursuit of truth. Reflect upon the blessing of the gardens of knowledge that Allah bestowed upon the Bani Israel—those who embarked on a journey of seeking truth. Allah promised to elevate them above all empirical and factual knowledge as they upheld their covenant. This covenant is an ongoing commitment made by those who choose to be among the Bani Israel, symbolizing those who embark on the spiritual path to seek the ultimate truth.
In Surah Al-Isra’ 17:1, this journey is further elucidated. It describes the spiritual ascend of those who honor the covenant, symbolized by the journey from Masjid al-Haram to Masjid al-Aqsa. This journey represents a profound transition from a state of mental entanglement in forbidden and unhealthy state of mind to a remote state of purity and insight, where the truth becomes evident. Allah clearly identifies the unhealthy states of mind that are prohibited in our submission to Him. These forbidden states act as barriers, obstructing the passage of divine light and guidance. To reach the state symbolized by Masjid al-Aqsa—a state of pure submission and clarity in truth—all these designated unhealthy states must be transformed into a healthy state of being.
The specific unhealthy states of mind, which must be eradicated, are explicitly mentioned in Surah An-Nahl 16:115 and also in Surah Al-Ma'idah 5:3:
- Al Maitah: Destitute thoughts that drain spiritual vitality.
- Addama: Thoughts filled with cruelty and violence, causing harm to oneself and others.
- Lahmal khinzir: Self-magnifying thoughts that inflate the ego and distance one from humility.
- Ma uhilla lighairillah: Any thoughts or actions dedicated to anything other than Allah, diverting the focus from divine purpose.
The journey described in Surah Al-Isra’ encapsulates a profound spiritual transformation, guiding believers from a state of ignorance and entanglement to one of enlightenment and submission to the truth. It emphasizes the necessity of transcending these unhealthy states of mind, as delineated by Allah, and embracing a path illuminated by divine wisdom. By recognizing and addressing these barriers to enlightenment, individuals can attain the pure submission symbolized by Masjid al-Aqsa, where boundless insights into the truth are accessible. Through unwavering commitment to this journey of inner purification, the faithful fulfill their covenant with Allah, drawing ever closer to the sublime reality of His guidance and illumination.
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