It’s Been Two Weeks Since Your Departure, Baba

Two weeks have passed since Allah, in His infinite wisdom, summoned you back, and the world seems more subdued, as though something rare and beautiful has departed from it. Baba held immense significance in our lives. He served as our father, mentor, and guiding star. He provided us with a childhood that blossomed in love, safety, and guidance, filled with lessons lived rather than merely spoken.

He imparted the teachings of the Qur’an, not simply teaching us to recite its verses, but illustrating how to embody its principles. Through both his words and, more significantly, his actions, he demonstrated good character, patience, humility, and a profound awareness of Allah.

Baba's heart knew no bounds. His affection stretched well beyond his immediate family; he cherished his nieces and nephews deeply, tending to them with the same care, intention, and responsibility. He ensured that every child around him knew they were valued, protected, and guided.

For many of our cousins, Baba was not merely an uncle; he was a moral compass and a trusted source of wisdom. He equipped us all with du’ā’. He taught us to turn toward Allah in all circumstances, instructing us on what to express in moments of gratitude, fear, pain, and hope.

The supplications we hold dear today are reflections of his voice, lessons that were conveyed gently and repeated until they became integral to our identities.

Baba had a profound love for knowledge. A dedicated reader and lifelong learner, he filled his home with books on faith, reflection, and wisdom, creating a library that mirrored the depth of his intellect and sincerity of his faith.

He generously shared his books, continually encouraging learning and teaching us that faith and intellect are intertwined. His influence extended well beyond our household. Anyone who encountered Baba gained valuable insights about Islam, character, dignity, and proper behavior. He provided advice with wisdom, corrected gently, and taught without belittling others. His mere presence was a lesson in living faith authentically and quietly.

Baba cherished Allah and His Messenger (SAW) deeply. He had a profound love for the Qur’an and a desire to see justice and truth prevail. As a lawyer, he excelled; as a devotee of Allah, he was principled, endlessly patient, and remarkably humble. His love for his family was fierce. He embodied the father figure anyone could desire, and we are eternally grateful to Allah for the precious gift he was—and always will be—to us.

The love he shared with our mother, the morals he imparted to us, and the principles he lived by will continue guiding us throughout our lives.

Though our hearts are heavy with sorrow, we find solace in the truth of Allah’s promise. Baba returned to his Creator with the Shahādah on his lips, Alhamdulillah. We believe he now resides in a better realm, not due to a lack of grief, but because of our faith. We entrust him to Allah amid our tears and trust, mourning hearts, and unwavering faith.

Rest in peace, Baba. Your teachings and legacy persist. Until the day Allah reunites us in a place devoid of separation and suffering, solely filled with mercy. Oh Allah, may the angels testify to his goodness as a father, a man who earnestly sought You. Forgive him, embrace him in Your mercy, and grant him a place in Jannah among the righteous. Make his grave spacious and luminous, and let his good deeds continue to reward him. Oh Allah, gather us with him in Your eternal gardens and comfort our hearts with Your names and the hope of Paradise. Ameen.

Inna lillahi wa Inna Ilayhi Raji’un.

Shahidah is a daughter of the deceased.