In the Name of Allāh.

I hope this serves as a sobering reminder for us all as we reflect upon the fate of those who came before us. They amassed great wealth, built sprawling cities, and thought themselves invincible, only to be reduced to a mere whisper in the annals of history.

Allāh, the All-Knowing, asks: “Can you find a single one of them or hear even a whisper of them?” [Sūrah Maryam (19): 98] No, for they have been erased from the face of the earth, and they now lie in their graves. This is a poignant indicator of the transience of life and the inevitability of death.

We must take heed of these lessons, my dear brethren, and strive to do good in this world, to be remembered for the right reasons, and to seek the Pleasure of Allāh. For, Allāh says: “Have they not traveled in the land and seen what was the end of those who were before them? They were superior to them in strength and in the traces (which they left) in the land. But Allāh seized them with punishment for their sins. And none had they to protect them from Allāh.” [Sūrah Ghafir (40): 21]

Therefore, let us not be deluded by the false promises of this world like those who came before us, who were deceived by their wealth and power. This life is but a fleeting moment, a temporary abode that shall soon vanish like a mirage. Let us rather focus on the true treasure and be those who follow the righteous path, who seek the Forgiveness and Mercy of Allāh, and who strive for eternal bliss in the Hereafter.

As we tread the path of righteousness, I beseech Allāh to grant us wisdom, patience, and the strength to overcome the temptations of this world. Aameen.