Environment: A Calamity that had a global aftershock

As the ground shook and a gigantic wave systematically annihilated a part of Japan the world held their breath, stunned. When a natural disaster occurs in the world, those who fear God are frightened contemplating the reason why such a calamity is occurring. They hope that their actions are not causing His displeasure. These are solely the thoughts of believers who have the insight and understanding that God does not need any human; therefore they tread the ground cautiously walking the paths that lead to His pleasure.

The Holy Quran says: ‘Verily, those who, out of fear of their Lord, always stand guard against sins. And those who believe in the Signs of their Lord,’ (23:58-59)

The Holy Quran also states that these believers do not only remember God in hard times. On the contrary, they are constantly remembering him in times of peace and adversity. They turn to God with greater intensity and focus, in times of difficulties and climatic changes.

The Holy Quran: There befalls not any calamity either in the earth or in your own persons, but it is recorded in a Book before we bring it into being — surely, that is easy for Allah (57:23)

The recent calamity on the 11th of March 2011 which hit the East coast of Tohoku was one of the top five largest earthquakes in the world. It was followed by a tsunami with waves of up to 10 meters (33 ft), the death toll reaching 27,000 with many more deaths unconfirmed. The earthquake inflicted extensive material damage to buildings and infrastructure that led to significant accidents at two major nuclear power stations. 16,451 people are still missing.

This tremendous calamity forces one to reflect, that no human, society or government can stand in the way of nature. One must note that the Japanese citizens are dealing with this unfortunate natural disaster with patience, discipline and dignity and this is a testament to the values of their society.

The Holy Quran: Therefore remember me, and I will remember you; and be thankful to me and do not be ungrateful to Me. (2:153)

We must all pray for the suffering, their families, their children and their nation. We pray that God allows them to rebuild their homes, villages, cities and lives. Japan you are in our thoughts, prayers and hearts.

Please go to: www.humanityfirst.org to donate and help the Japanese people in this troubling time. Thank you.

Zubair A. Hayat - Founder of THE AHMADIYYA POST