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- You're watching "Let the Quran Speak"

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and now we answer your questions.

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If you have a question, visit our website,

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QuranSpeaks.com.

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Dr. Shabir, the question we have here is:

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My son has autism.

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He can't really talk and won't pray or go to the mosque.

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I'm concerned about him.

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Will God forgive him, or is he destined for hell?

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- Hmm.

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So we have limited information in the question,

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so we have to extrapolate,

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we have to unpack the question

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and then make some assumptions.

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Let's start with some general observations.

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General observation number one

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is that if God only holds people responsible

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for what they're capable of.

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So with this in mind,

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we find verses of the Quran that says,

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for example, you know, (speaking Arabic),

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be aware of God,

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be conscious of God as much as you can,

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or according to your ability.

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Other verses say, (speaking Arabic),

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God does not hold people responsible

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except for that which they are capable of,

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and so on and so forth.

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This is so well entrenched in the Quran.

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This is one of the unquestionable pillars, right?

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That's our starting point.

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We have, even hadiths that even support this and say that,

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you know, the pen that's writing down

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the deeds of the people

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are lifted from the person who is asleep

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until the person wakes up,

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from the person who is immature until they become mature,

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the person who is insane until they become sane, and so on.

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So it's clear then

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that if somebody is not capable of having the right belief,

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of doing the practices of Islam, and so on,

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that person is not gonna be held responsible by God

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on the day of judgment.

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The Quran describes him as (speaking Arabic).

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He is the most just of those who meet out justice.

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He's the best of judges, to put it simply.

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And he's fair and he knows his creatures.

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He knows how he created us

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with all of our limitations and so on.

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He's not going to hold us more responsible than we can

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(speaks faintly). - And he's merciful too.

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- That's the other side of it, yeah.

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Even when we could have been held responsible,

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he is merciful and forgiving,

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so what about if we were not able in the first place?

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So now in, like autism is a wide spectrum, obviously, right?

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Some people with autism would be very bright,

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very intelligent,

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capable of, you know, computations and so on

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that the average person may not be capable of.

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So there are different assumptions that we can go with,

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but let's go with the assumption

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that this person is not capable.

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Well then, you know, that person has a free pass

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in a way, right?

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And we look at the person with pity,

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but maybe, you know,

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that person's in a better position than we are

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because they will be, you know, free

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from any sort of responsibility before God

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on the day of judgment.

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And, of course, in the life hereafter,

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everyone will be freed of their disabilities

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and they'll be in paradise forever,

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enjoying bliss.

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At the same time, we pray

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that Allah will make it easy for the mother

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who's asking about her child

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and make it easy for the child as well.

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And we've been encouraged the mother

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to do work with the child to see as much as possible,

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depending on the age and level of understanding,

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to get that child to believe in the right things

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and to get the child involved with the mosque

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and activities with the Muslim community.

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- All right, we'll leave it at that.

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Thank you Dr. Shabir. - You're welcome.

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- [Both] As-salamu alaykum.

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Understanding Forgiveness for Children with Autism: A Quranic Perspective

In a world where we often question the mysteries of life and spirituality, the concerns of parents with children facing challenges such as autism are pressing. A central question arises: Will a child with autism be forgiven by God, especially if they cannot perform religious practices like prayer? This article delves into the Quranic teachings addressing this sensitive topic, emphasizing God's mercy and justice.

The Responsibility of Belief: What Does the Quran Say?

When pondering the question of whether God holds individuals accountable for their beliefs and actions, it is essential to understand a fundamental principle found within Islamic teachings. The Quran repeatedly stresses that God only holds people responsible for what they are capable of understanding and doing. For example, verses in the Quran suggest that one should "be conscious of God as much as you can" and that "God does not hold people responsible except for what they can bear." This establishes a vital foundation: accountability in Islam is tied closely to capacity.

The Role of God's Mercy

A crucial aspect of this conversation is the concept of God's mercy. The discussion highlights that even in situations where individuals, such as those with autism, may not fully comprehend or perform religious duties, God's forgiveness is still a guiding light. The Quran describes God as the most just judge. He understands human limitations, and His nature is fundamentally merciful.

For instance, Hadith narrates that the “pen that writes down deeds is lifted” from individuals who are not in a position to act due to immaturity or mental incapacity. This notion tells us that in God's eyes, children and those facing cognitive challenges are not burdened with obligations they cannot fulfill.

Autism Spectrum: A Wide Range of Capabilities

It’s essential to recognize that autism does not manifest uniformly; it exists on a spectrum. Some individuals are capable of remarkable intellectual feats, while others may struggle with communication and social interactions. In cases where a child is genuinely unable to engage in religious activities or comprehend beliefs, the assumption is that they reside in a state of innocence regarding accountability before God.

For parents concerned about their child’s spiritual standing, it is comforting to consider that those with disabilities receive a form of grace that may not be extended to others. These individuals may not face the same responsibilities on the Day of Judgment, reflecting God's overarching kindness and justice.

Encouragement for Parents and the Community

While God’s mercy is an ever-present reality, parents are also encouraged to engage their children within the Muslim community. Encouraging participation at the mosque or in communal activities can be beneficial, even if these engagements are adjusted to fit the child's needs and capabilities. The effort to involve children, to help them understand their identity within Islam, and to foster their spiritual growth is invaluable.

Additionally, parents should seek support from their community and experts who can assist them in nurturing their child's understanding and connection to Islam.

The Promise of Paradise

Beyond this life, Islamic teachings provide hope and assurance. The belief in an afterlife filled with peace and joy awaits all believers, including those with disabilities. This reassuring concept emphasizes that all individuals will be free from any earthly limitations or challenges upon entering paradise.

The Conclusion: Embracing Faith and Hope

In light of the concerns parents have for their children with autism, understanding the principles laid out in the Quran can offer solace. The innate kindness and justice of God assure that those unable to fulfill religious obligations are not condemned; instead, they are embraced in mercy. For parents journeying alongside children with autism, engage in prayer and action within the community, cherishing the faith that transcends trials and tribulations.

In the end, the most profound message remains: God’s understanding of human nature is profound, and His forgiveness is boundless. Parents can find peace, knowing that their child's unique path—be it through silence or struggle—remains illuminated by God's infinite compassion.