Itqan is an Arabic term rooted in the concept of performing a task to the highest possible standard. In the spiritual context, it would be to perform deeds with the aim of reaching the spiritual of Ihsaan, the highest possible state whereby one is constantly cognisant of ALLAH’S Presence. The spiritual state of Ihsaan, in its’ most basic form requires strict adherence to the all teachings of Islam. Identifying as Believers who follow the religion of Islam, the expectation is for to us practise Islam to the hilt, without reservation. “O Believers! Enter into Islam wholeheartedly, and do not follow in the footsteps of Shaytaan. Surely, he is your sworn enemy”. {Holy Qur’an / 2:208} All Muslims have “entered into Islam”, whether by birth of through reverting. This honourable distinction has rendered us as brothers and sisters unto each, described in a Hadith as “a single body” (of believers). With this honour the comes responsibility of upholding the tenets of Islam, as best as possible, in word and deed. The Deen (religion) of Islam is not based on the “build a burger” model, whereby you get to pick and choose “ingredients” which fit your flavoured fancy. With absolute clarity and resolute firmness, lslam is entrenched within obedience to the commands of ALLAH, as set out in the Holy Qur’an, and the Sunnah practises and teachings of His beloved Servant and Messenger, Muhammad (SalaLLAHU Alayhi Wa Sallam). In as much as Muslims are expected to respect people’s right of choice, when it comes to religion, it is not upon us to be agreeable or accommodating of their beliefs, if it is in conflict with the teachings of Islam. Muslim apologist often (conveniently) quote the first part of a verse in the Holy Qur’an (2:256), LAA IKRA FID-DEEN… (There is no compulsion in religion…), when engaging with people on matters of faith. The complete verse reads as follows. “Let there be no compulsion in religion, for truth stands out clear from falsehood. So, whoever rejects false gods and believes in ALLAH has certainly grasped firmest Hand-hold which never breaks, and ALLAH is All-Hearing, All Knowing”. {Holy Qur’an / 2:256) In an attempt to subjugate the global masses through “spiritual pacification”, certain groups, totally devoid of any semblance of true spiritualty have tabled a document titled THE ABRAHAMIC ACCORD. Named after Ibrahim (Alayhi Salaam) / Abraham (Peace be upon him), the patriarch of Islam, Judaism, and Christianity, this document is being peddled as the means towards religious harmony, when in essence it aims to isolate people from core principles of their faith. From a Muslim standpoint, there can be no acceptance of a faith which is in conflict with LAA ILAAHA IL LAL LAHU , MUHAMMADUR RASOOLULLAH. There Is no God worthy of worship besides ALLAH, Muhammad is the Messenger of ALLAH. As Muslims, we strongly believe in and firmly stand by the truth of the Holy Qur’an. I reiterate! Itqan is the act of striving to perform a task to the highest standard. The highest possible standard of living life, for every Muslim, is according to that which has been practised by our beloved Nabi (SalaLLAHU Alayhi Wa Sallam), set out upon the Millat (religion practises ) of the friend of ALLAH, Ibrahim (Alayhi Salaam). “Abraham was neither a Jew or a Christian, but he was one inclining towards truth. A Muslim. (one who submits to God), and he was not of the polytheists. {Holy Qur’an / 3:67} “Who can be better in religion than one who submits his whole self to ALLAH, does good, and follows the way of Abraham, the true in faith? For ALLAH did take Abraham for a friend”. {Holy Qur’an / 4:125} Itqan! The highest possible standard. In submitting to ALLAH (God), no religion sets the bar higher than Islam. With well over a billion Muslims across the globe, in spite of our large numbers, whether as individuals or a collective, we are not a favour to Islam. Islam is ALLAH’S Favour upon us. “…This day I have perfected for you your religion and completed My favour upon you, and have approved for you Islam as your religion…” {Holy Qur’an / 5:3} I C AN (5 Zil Hijjah 1447 / 23 May 2026)