A journey of unfolding petals

Wherever you turn there is a face of God. God’s essence is reflected in all of creation. We can experience and learn the reflections of God’s qualities in our surroundings. Nature provides us with the resources to carry on with life.

From providing for our basic survival needs, the attributes of God are reflected everywhere. In presence of nature, we return to reason and faith. Away from the hustle-bustle of modern-day life, a man can take a moment to observe the natural objects and their features, what they are telling us, their minute details will allow us to witness the soft, beautiful, strong, majestic and kind looking reflections of God’s qualities.

One of the greatest gifts of nature are flowers. Flowers are gentle, delicate and softer than the human skin. Their presence, touch, sight, smell, the beautiful design moves us to awe, and we feel a sense of joy and happiness.

Their gentle and delicate nature reminds us of (Al -Latif- The Subtle). Their naturally rejuvenated soft petals reminds us of (Al-Muqit- The Nourisher). In a garden, our eyes capture a picturesque view of flowers, the sight of which fills our mind and soul with a state of inner peace. Something in our soul recognises the divine nature of His attribute (As- Salam- Source of Peace).

We come across different types and varieties of flowers enriched with beautiful colours and patterns. Their beauty represents (Al- Musawir, The Shaper of Beauty, The Fashioner). They are a smile and a gift from heaven (Al – Wahhab- The Giver of Gifts).

We give flowers as gifts to the loved ones. In every culture and religion, they bring people together to connect with deeper emotions. Such is their beauty that upon receiving them our mood is softened, an overwhelming feeling of love and happiness is felt. (Al- Khafid, The One who softens). They are represented as a symbol of love and care. (Al- Wadud- Most Loving, The Origin of Love).

The gush of autumn wind strips away the leaves from trees, harshness of winter slows down and dormant the life of nature. Even the prettiest flowers wither away and reminds us that everything dies (Al – Mumit- The inflictor of Death). After each passing winter, flowers are seen blooming everywhere.

The beautiful spring season brings back the promise of hope and life. Nature resumes her loveliness with the arrival of spring, a season which comes with the reminder from God that there is a ray of light, hope, happiness and a better tomorrow (Al – Muid- The Restorer), reminding us of the One who gives life to creation (Al- Muhyi- The Giver of Life). They are a symbol of the magnificence and splendour of nature, a reminder of the infinite beauty and grace of Allah (SWT) creations. They depict purity and grace (An – Nafi- Creator of Good).

The continuous process of birth, death and rebirth of flowers teach us patience, the reality of life which is filled with the changing seasons of progress, downfalls, good and bad times. They describe His essence of being Patient and act as a reminder for us to seek help through patience and prayer (As Sabur- The All Patient). Just like flowers go through these stages, we human beings also go through the stages of hardships at the end of which there is always ease.

Upon observing and reflecting the different objects of nature, a man can connect, deeply understand and find God’s presence everywhere. Nature acts as a great source of wisdom and teaches us life’s most important lessons. “No artist tolerates reality” a quote by Friedrich Nietzche, in my opinion is indeed true, as they cannot duplicate the creation of the ultimate creator (Al -Khaliq- The Creator) and Lord of the Worlds (Malik al – Mulk).

By Sadiya Handoo

Sadiya Handoo, Final year student, PG Department of Commerce Islamia College of Science and Commerce, Srinagar