"You are born people with an advantage or disadvantage. You begin to mold yourself into whatever is available. With the passage of time, the fruits of your labour cause you to become either like Abu Lahab or Abu Jahal, both uncles of the Prophet (s.a.w.), or become like Abu Bakr, 'Umar etc. (either cursed or blessed). Old age overtakes you as you reach the conclusion of your existence. If you fail, was it due to bad planning, greed, corruption, decadence etc.? On the other hand, if you succeed, would you attribute it to good luck or your intelligence, or would you be grateful to God Almighty?" (Shaykh Mokhtar Stork, dated 18 Sept 2021)
MAULID NABI: Separating Devotion from the Maulid Debate
Salatullah, Salamunllah, wa-Rahmatullah Alaika Ya Rasulullah.
FROM
A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE
From
a historical perspective, celebrating Maulid Nabi is considered an
innovation (bid'ah). Scholars point out that neither the Prophet
Muhammad (ﷺ),
his Companions (Sahabah), nor the early generations (Salaf) formally
celebrated his birthday. Furthermore, historical consensus on the
exact date of his birth varies—while the 12th of Rabi'ul-Awwal
is widely cited in tradition, other dates such as the 2nd, 8th, or
10th are also supported by early biographical texts (Seerah).
SEPARATING DEVOTION FROM THE MAULID DEBATE
Separating devotion from the Maulid Debate is important. As
Muslims,
we possess love (mahabbah) and reverence
for the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ).
This
forms an integral part of Islam. Tensions
often arise when the method
of expressing that love is conflated with the presence
of the love itself. Please
kindly take note that we don’t have a cake, lighted with candles to
blow out as with an ordinary birthday. We gather to sing the praises
of our Prophet (ﷺ).
The
practice of chanting the Berzanji,
is a common practice amongst Malays and Muslims in the region. The
Berzanji is commonly held during Maulid Nabi and the cutting of the
hair of an infant child. The recitation is usually in Arabic but
often can also include the Malay Language.
INTENT
AND CONTENT
(The
Permissible/Praiseworthy Perspective)
Organising
gatherings for educational or devotional purposes is
permissible.
From this viewpoint, the reciting of
the Qur'an, sending blessings (Salawat), upon
the Prophet (ﷺ), studying the Prophet’s life (Seerah),
and feeding people—are inherently recommended (mustahabb)
practices
in
Islam. Using
general commands for praise as a blanket justification for
establishing a specific annual event conflates separate concepts.
Acknowledging this distinction helps maintain clarity without
invalidating individual intentions.
LOVE
AS AN EVER-PRESENT PILLAR
It
is a misconception to confine love for the Prophet (ﷺ)
to
just Rabiul
Awal.
Love
for
the
Prophet
(ﷺ)
is not a seasonal event. It is reflected daily through adherence to
the Sunnah,
sending Salawat,
practicing his character (akhlaq),
and studying his life (Seerah).
Keep
in mind that the Prophet
(ﷺ)
is
both the ‘lover’ and ‘beloved’ of Allah. Textual
evidence commanding believers to send blessings upon the Prophet such
as in
Surah
Al-Ahzab verse
56 applies
universally at all times. Reverence
for the Prophet (ﷺ),
invoking blessings (Salawat)
upon him, and following his Sunnah
are foundational to every Muslim's faith, regardless of their stance
on Maulid. Choosing not to participate in an organized annual
gathering does not signal a lack of love or respect for him.
MUTUAL
RESPECT AND ULTIMATE JUDGEMENT
Focusing
on Sincerity
of Intention
(Niyyah):
Intentions and outcomes ultimately belong to Allah alone. Theological
disagreement on secondary matters (furu')
should not breed division or questioning of another Muslim's faith
and devotion. True
honor for
the
Prophet (ﷺ)
lies in sincerity of heart and dedication to his path. Whether
expressed through quiet daily adherence or devotional
gatherings, the foundation remains shared: deep reverence for the one
sent as a “Mercy
to the Worlds."
Any gathering—whether associated with Maulid or not—must remain
free from religious exaggeration (ghuluw),
free mixing contrary to Islamic guidelines, or wasteful extravagance.
[Mokhtar
Stork 15 Aug 2026/Awal Muharram]
MAULID NABI: Separating Devotion from the Maulid Debate
Salatullah, Salamunllah, wa-Rahmatullah Alaika Ya Rasulullah.
FROM A HISTORICAL PERSPECTIVE
From a historical perspective, celebrating Maulid Nabi is considered an innovation (bid'ah). Scholars point out that neither the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ), his Companions (Sahabah), nor the early generations (Salaf) formally celebrated his birthday. Furthermore, historical consensus on the exact date of his birth varies—while the 12th of Rabi'ul-Awwal is widely cited in tradition, other dates such as the 2nd, 8th, or 10th are also supported by early biographical texts (Seerah).
SEPARATING DEVOTION FROM THE MAULID DEBATE
Separating devotion from the Maulid Debate is important. As Muslims, we possess love (mahabbah) and reverence for the Prophet Muhammad (ﷺ). This forms an integral part of Islam. Tensions often arise when the method of expressing that love is conflated with the presence of the love itself. Please kindly take note that we don’t have a cake, lighted with candles to blow out as with an ordinary birthday. We gather to sing the praises of our Prophet (ﷺ). The practice of chanting the Berzanji, is a common practice amongst Malays and Muslims in the region. The Berzanji is commonly held during Maulid Nabi and the cutting of the hair of an infant child. The recitation is usually in Arabic but often can also include the Malay Language.
INTENT AND CONTENT (The Permissible/Praiseworthy Perspective)
Organising gatherings for educational or devotional purposes is permissible. From this viewpoint, the reciting of the Qur'an, sending blessings (Salawat), upon the Prophet (ﷺ), studying the Prophet’s life (Seerah), and feeding people—are inherently recommended (mustahabb) practices in Islam. Using general commands for praise as a blanket justification for establishing a specific annual event conflates separate concepts. Acknowledging this distinction helps maintain clarity without invalidating individual intentions.
LOVE AS AN EVER-PRESENT PILLAR
It is a misconception to confine love for the Prophet (ﷺ) to just Rabiul Awal. Love for the Prophet (ﷺ) is not a seasonal event. It is reflected daily through adherence to the Sunnah, sending Salawat, practicing his character (akhlaq), and studying his life (Seerah). Keep in mind that the Prophet (ﷺ) is both the ‘lover’ and ‘beloved’ of Allah. Textual evidence commanding believers to send blessings upon the Prophet such as in Surah Al-Ahzab verse 56 applies universally at all times. Reverence for the Prophet (ﷺ), invoking blessings (Salawat) upon him, and following his Sunnah are foundational to every Muslim's faith, regardless of their stance on Maulid. Choosing not to participate in an organized annual gathering does not signal a lack of love or respect for him.
MUTUAL RESPECT AND ULTIMATE JUDGEMENT
Focusing on Sincerity of Intention (Niyyah): Intentions and outcomes ultimately belong to Allah alone. Theological disagreement on secondary matters (furu') should not breed division or questioning of another Muslim's faith and devotion. True honor for the Prophet (ﷺ) lies in sincerity of heart and dedication to his path. Whether expressed through quiet daily adherence or devotional gatherings, the foundation remains shared: deep reverence for the one sent as a “Mercy to the Worlds." Any gathering—whether associated with Maulid or not—must remain free from religious exaggeration (ghuluw), free mixing contrary to Islamic guidelines, or wasteful extravagance. [Mokhtar Stork 15 Aug 2026/Awal Muharram]
WHAT IS YOUR VIEW ON LIFE?
Many people believe that the purpose of life is to find personal happiness, fulfillment, and meaning. This could involve pursuing passions, building meaningful relationships, or making a positive impact on the world. For others, the purpose of life is tied to their spiritual or religious beliefs. These beliefs may offer a sense of purpose, direction, and connection to a higher power. Others find meaning in contributing to society or making a positive difference in the lives of others.
This could involve volunteering,
advocating for social justice, or pursuing a career that benefits the
community. Some people believe that the purpose of life is to learn, grow, and
develop as individuals. This could involve exploring new experiences, challenging
oneself, and striving to become the best version of oneself. It can be said
that your environment, culture, religious beliefs and upbringing do play a
significant role in your approach to life. At the end of the day, you are what you are. That is your created state (fitrah). There is no right or wrong answer,
and it may change over time as life experiences and perspectives evolve. (10 Sept 2024)
OUR APPROACH TO ISLAM
Our approach to Islam has been based on the Qur'an and Ahadith. This Traditional approach to studying Islam is subject orientated and specific in nature. It does not take in the wider picture. For example, an ustad/ustazah may quote a Hadith on building a mosque and your reward would be a palace in paradise. This is valid but if you study accounting there is a 'profit-loss' account and if you go bust you would lose everything. In an Islamic context, you could lose your 'palace' in paradise.
Taking in the wider picture is important because individuals have been known to take advantage of the innocent and ignorant. Take for example the call to Jihad in the Qur'an. Individuals with specific objectives sounded this call and many joined them without realising what they were getting in. Many did not know that they were not fighting for Allah's cause but some proxy war with invested interest.
Islam today is abused and manipulated to serve 'invested interest'. There is a need to verify whatever you are told. This is a Qur'anic command. There is a need to develop a firm foundation in Tawheed and Tawakkul. However, one should also be open to 'opinion' outside the standard framework of Islam, so long as it does not go against the Fundamental Principles of Islam. There is a need to understand Allah, our relationship with Him, the purpose of creation, its creation and existence. Nothing exists but Allah; There is no power greater than His; Nothing takes place without Him knowing about it, and in all matters, He knows best. His breath into Adam, bring him to life. That very same 'breath', 'spark' or 'light' (nur) keeps everything alive. The whole Creation is a manifestation of His Divine Names and Attributes. As such, just what are you going to supplicate Him about that He does not off. He 'hears', 'sees' and 'knows' - thus, it is Nearness to Him through Submission that makes the difference, and not on our egoistic desires.
Ibnu Arabi is a master of reality and many of his book have been translated by William Chittick (Prof. at New York University). The study of Islamic Cosmology and Islamic Metaphysics will enlighten you on Creation. You will also find this information in Sahih Bukhari etc. Get these download free (look for pdf files) or email me:
Ibnu Abbas (r.a.) supplicated: "Ya Allah, by the Light (Nur) of your Face, which shines on the heavens and the earth, place me in Your fortress, Your protection, Your guardianship, and under Your shadow." The Qur'an states that "Only His Face remains". It is this Light that keeps us all alive. If this 'Veil of Light' is withdrawn everything will be destroyed (Bukhari).
10. Journey to The Lord of Power (A Sufi Manual of Retreat) by Ibnu Arabi.
Kindly recommend my blog to your friends. My email: hajimokhtar2@gmail.com
UNCERTAINTY OVER WHAT REALLY HAPPENS AFTER DEATH (11 July, 2026)
Did We Make Jesus The Son of God?
Self-Awareness, Self-Discipline, and Spiritual Development (20 June 2026)
TIME TO SWITCH TO LINUX CINNAMON
SPIRITUAL REFLECTIONS
TAWHEED: Only Allah exist. There is no power greater than His. Nothing takes place without Him knowing and approving it as He deems fit. It is His Light (Nur) that keeps the whole Creation alive. His Light is within you, outside of you, everywhere and in everything. Everything is a manifestation of His Divine Names and Attributes. Those who understand this, know that their lives, like Creation is measured out by Him. Therefore, to succeed in this world and the next, you submit, serve within your means... only doing good without expectation, and you will reach your destination, enjoying Allah's pleasure. This is your Tawheed.
TAWAKKUL is the Essence of Tawheed. You will experience it when you reach the end of the road; when every effort of yours has failed; when you are demoralised... almost lost faith in all your beliefs and practices: That is the moment... the moment of total surrender to Allah, only then will Tawakkul in Allah suddenly become a reality to you, because it is the only thing left for you. It will seize your heart to have meaning and substance, otherwise, it just a word to you.
LlAILATUL QADR is not just an event like looking at a 'bloody moon' eclipse. It goes beyond that. Throughout my life, I have experienced it in different ways. It is not on the same day for everyone. One does not witness it in accordance with one's desires because Allah does not attend to our whims and fancies. Therefore, if the desire is to seek Allah's forgiveness, mercy, kindness, love and affection, as well as being saved from the 'Blazing Fire of Hell' and the Torment of the Grave'.... your chances are greater. Often, it just happens to many unexpectedly because Allah loves those who purely serve Him, seeking nothing in return but His pleasure. Think about this and avoid joining the 'circus of sightseers'.
REVISED: The ISLAMIC COSMOLOGICAL APPROACH TO GOD AND CREATION (Mankind) (17 Oct, 2024)
All political Shia and Sunni preachers are blinded by the real fact that there is no Islamic State whatsoever. The Treaty of Hudaibiyah has been politically manipulated. The turmoil after the demise of the Prophet s.a.w., his burial and the election process that followed (found in Ahadith), clearly indicate the politics of the Quraish (the wealthy and powerful, especially those who contributed towards Islam). It is this politics that sidelined Ali and his family. The Prophet clearly declared: I leave two things behind, the Word of Allah and the Sunnah of the Ahlul Bayt (they were never Shia'!) It is this universal disease between the Sunni and Shia' that has witnessed collections of Ahadith selected to suit them and in almost every other matter. Unfortunately, the real victims are the Ahlul Bayt, who should lead the way.
GOD'S LIGHT (NUR) DETERMINES YOUR FAITH (192 pages 5x7): published 2024
Summary: What I am presenting here is an Analogical Argument based on God’s Light (Nur) and how it determines Fate. This has not been previously presented, mentioned or written. Traditionally, we have viewed Creation as a process taking place within “six days” according to the Qur’an, (Surah A’raf 7:54). In the world of science, the ‘Big Bang’ theory represents the way the universe came into existence without a God. This theory can be viewed as God creating Creation in darkness with His Light (Nur). This Analogical Argument deals with 1). The Creation as a whole, 2). The Creation of Adam, and 3). Qada and Qadar (Preordainment). By viewing Creation in this manner, we are able to conclude that the amount of Light (Nur) from God, as determined by Him, forms the basis and foundation of existence. The ‘amount of Light (Nur) a person receives from God’ at the time of his/her inception into the world, has a relationship with scientific evidence concerning Criminality, Down Syndrome etc.
Previously Published Books
