"Nip it in the bud"

A youngster planted a mango tree in front of his door. The tree bloomed and blossomed. Despite this, the father of this youngster uprooted it.

The youngster became very angry and uttered all the harsh words that he could. And there were also some people who have approved of it. But all those who have experience, would approve of the father's act because the father has acted with the requisite wisdom. He knows that this mango tree is a rare species. But he prefers sacrificing it in lieu of his house which has cost him a lot to build. He knows that after some time, this tree will destroy his house with its big roots.

Thus, one must not look at something in its current form when one has to take a decision. One must look a little further. It is those people who have experience who can see "a little further" for one. On this same basis, the Shari'ah prohibited the photography of animated things. Because this itself had led people to idolatry in the past which until today, still exists. Allowing women to perform Salah in the Masjid also, must be analysed by the same reasoning. Otherwise, one must know that history repeats itself. One must not allow one to be on the first of the staircase whose end will lead towards degradation. One must not wait until the last moment. One must take precautions beforehand. It is better to lose an additional profit than to lose what one has in the pocket.

[English version of "Nip it in the bud" – Al Jamiat – Vol.5 No.9]