"The earth shook, opened up and swallowed human beings!" Those were the words of a shocked and frightened witness of the Indonesian earthquake that occurred almost two weeks ago. It left almost 5,000 people dead and several others injured and homeless.
An earthquake is defined as a sudden shaking of the earth’s surface that often cause a lot of damage. Whenever it occurs, it leaves in its wake a lot of damage to human lives and properly. Many families lose loved ones; parents lose children and children could also end up as orphans. In some cases the entire family is wiped out. Those who survive may not be very lucky as some of them sustain serious injuries that could render them disabled for life. An earthquake really is terrible! May Allaah protect us from it. Most of us in this part of the world only hear about earthquakes from the television and radio when one country or the other is hit by this disaster.
Very often, it is just another piece of news to be repeated for about 3days after which everyone forgets about it until the next occurrence. It’s so easy for us to forget because we are not affected. Those who have their lives torn apart by earthquakes however will never forget. Have you ever stopped to imagine how you would feel if you were to witness it? Just thinking of the fact that there is no where to hide to be safe at that moment is enough to send shivers down ones spine. Then think of the noise and the ground shaking violently beneath your feet. Think of the destruction and witnessing people dying and houses being destroyed. Then, think of escaping totally unhurt! How would you feel? Imagining such situations help us to appreciate the wonders of Allaah and be thankful that we have never witnessed such an incident in Nigeria.
It should also make us more prayerful that Allaah in His Infinite mercies saves us from such. Remember that Earthquakes and such natural disasters like the Tsunami that occurred in the year 2004 are signs of the last hour and reminders of the day of Resurrection. Allaah says:
"Oh mankind! Fear your Lord and be dutiful to Him! Verily, the earthquake of the Hour (of Judgment) is a terrible thing. "(Q 22:1)
He also says:
"On the Day (when the first blowing of the Trumpet is blown), the earth and the mountains will shake, violently (and everybody will die)" (Q79:6)
Lets always fear Allaah and reflect on such signs. Remember, on the Day of Judgment, It will be too late to make amends for wrongs and misdeeds committed in the past. Always thank Allaah for saving us from these disasters that are common in so many other countries except Nigeria. Remember, the victims are human beings like you and a good number are even Muslims just like you!
Which of the favours of your Lord will you deny? Soorah Ar-Rahman (Q 55)
This article was culled from the publications of Deen Communication Limited