Last November I went for the first time to the Great Smoky Mountains in Tennessee. It was an incredible trip, but more than that, it was a trip to take a break and breathe fresh air, a kind of escape from the chaotic routine which every week makes me feel overwhelmed.
Ever since I was a child, connecting with nature has always made me feel happy. I grew up with a scouting family, but this trip was completely different. In this trip, I could connect with Allah SWT through admiring huge innumerable pines, marvelous mountains, tiny colorful insects, incredible sunsets, and a sky full of gems.
I’m currently studying Islamic Psychology which is helping me to complement my knowledge in Islam and to deeply understand the message of Allah SWT. While reading, I came upon the term Tafakkur, which according to our scholars means to think on a subject deeply, and in great detail. Reflecting on the environment, flowers and animals embodies the essence of Islam.
Subhanallah, it’s incredible how admiring beautiful landscapes is a form of worship of God, Allah SWT. He is the only Creator of this entire universe, the only one who has the power to raise the sun every day and make the stars shine at night.
ٱلَّذِينَ يَذْكُرُونَ ٱللَّهَ قِيَـٰمًۭا وَقُعُودًۭا وَعَلَىٰ جُنُوبِهِمْ وَيَتَفَكَّرُونَ فِى خَلْقِ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٰتِ وَٱلْأَرْضِ رَبَّنَا مَا خَلَقْتَ هَـٰذَا بَـٰطِلًۭا سُبْحَـٰنَكَ فَقِنَا عَذَابَ ٱلنَّارِ
“They are those who remember Allah while standing, sitting, and lying on their sides, and reflect on the creation of the heavens and the earth and pray, “Our Lord! You have not created all of this without purpose. Glory be to You! Protect us from the torment of the Fire.” (Qur’an, 3:191)
Masha’Allah, while we are admiring nature, we are confirming and testifying that we believe in Allah SWT, our qalb (heart) lights up and our ruh (spirit) nourishes when we reflect. I totally felt connected to God when smelling the pine trees, looking at the river flowing and birds flying around – I felt Allah SWT was there. When we open our eyes from darkness, we become the ones who can identify Allah’s signs.
