Three-frame set

Text: Qadr-Sabr-Shukr

Calligraphy: Mohammad Ilyas

Each frame is 6x6” inches

Material: Handmade fibre frame, fibre sheet covering, paper

Concept:

“Qadr” is an Arabic word for destiny, decree, or pre-ordainment. It implies that Allah decreed our destinies before we were born, according to which our lives unfold. Belief in “qadr” is one of the six articles of faith for a Muslim.

“Sabr” is patience. Patience is a deep, profound concept linked to “qadr”. It is practising restraint whether in distress or joy. When hardships visit us, being patient means not giving into anger or anxiety, being calm and practical, and trying our best to resolve our hardship, while placing our trust in Allah. When success or happiness visits us, being patient means not becoming arrogant or disobeying Allah’s command in expressing our joy. Being patient means not being overwhelmed by either sorrow or joy, and continuing to carry out our tasks in this world in the hope that Allah will reward us for them. Sabr is not easy to practise, which is why Allah rewards it highly. But certainly, belief in “Qadr” helps one in being patient, as a person learns to view his/her life in terms of Allah’s Decree and Plan for us. And Allah is, indeed, the Best of Planners.

“Shukr” is gratitude and gratefulness to Allah, and is rooted in the concept of “qadr”. When we realise that Allah desires and plans the best for us, we feel a sense of gratitude, and thus optimism, even in distressing times. Allah has decreed the best for us, and even our seemingly “bad times” are good for us as they make us wiser, stronger and more compassionate human beings. Making us better people is all a part of Allah’s Qadr. Now isn’t that something to feel grateful for?