11. Thinking for Yourself

Have you ever asked someone why they do something a certain way, and they replied, “Because that’s how we’ve always done it”? Sometimes, people follow traditions without thinking about whether they are right or wrong.

In Surah Al-Baqarah (2:170), Allah says:

“When they are told ‘Follow what Allah has revealed,’ they say ‘Rather we will follow what we found our ancestors doing,’ even though their ancestors did not understand anything and were not guided”

What Does This Mean?

This verse teaches us that we should not blindly follow others—even if it’s something we’ve been taught since childhood. Just because people before us did something doesn’t mean it was right. If they were wrong, and we copy them without thinking, we could also end up on the wrong path.

How Can We Apply This?

  • Ask questions. If you’re told to do something, don’t just follow—find out if it’s the right thing to do.

  • Seek knowledge. Learn about Islam from the Quran and authentic sources.

  • Have the courage to change. If you realize something isn’t right, don’t be afraid to correct it.

This verse reminds us to use our minds, seek the truth, and make choices based on what is right, not just what others do. True guidance comes from Allah, not from following the crowd.

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