The Power of Now: Exploring Its Teachings Through an Islamic Lens

The author of this book, Eckhart Tolle, wasn't always a spiritual teacher. In fact, like many others, he went through a period in his life that seemed uncertain and challenging at first. At the age of 29, he had a transformative spiritual experience that radically shifted his perspective on life. Before that, he struggled with feelings of depression and disconnection, but after his awakening, he began to explore the nature of consciousness, presence, and the ego. 

That's when his best selling book The Power Of Now was born.

What does the power of now actually mean?

As I had stated above, when I first started reading this book, I thought it was 'fluffy'. By fluffy I mean there are A LOT of words being used that may or may not start to confuse you. But if you truly focus and read with absolute intention, it just starts to make sense. In so many ways.

If you think about it on a deeper level, the power of now simply refers to the transformative impact of fully embracing the present moment. It means letting go of past regrets and future worries, and instead focusing your attention on the here and now. 

Let's break that down further. Where you are, right now, in this very moment, whether you're at home, school, uni, work, wherever you are, that's your 'now'. Without thinking of the word 'now' as something deeper, think of it as it is. Just 'now'. Like right NOW, you're here or there. 

Now as individuals, we're constantly thinking. Our minds are always working, processing information, thinking about the past or the future. Not fully registering where we are or what we are doing in this certain moment of our lives. Right now.

It's always about dwelling on the past and what should've been, or what you need to be doing for the future and how that will unfold. We've been told setting goals and working on our future self is crucial for where we want to be in life. But when are we told to just enjoy the moment we're currently living?

The Power Of Now does exactly that. It opens your eyes to actually enjoy yourself in this current moment of time because that's where it's all happening. Right now. In this moment.

What does the power of now TEACH YOU IN ISLAM?

Eckhart Tolle’s The Power of Now isn’t just a book; it’s a transformative guide to living with greater peace and presence. At its core, the book challenges us to rethink how we experience time and self-awareness. From an Islamic perspective, the key messages of the book resonate strongly with Islamic teachings about mindfulness, submission to Allah (swt) will, and living in the present moment. Here are 5 key lessons you can learn from The Power Of Now, through an Islamic lens:

Lesson #1: Live In the present moment

Tolle teaches the importance of focusing on the present moment, as the past is gone and the future is unknown. In Islam, this concept is also emphasized. Muslims are reminded in the Quran and Hadith to be mindful of the present and to trust in Allah’s plan. This aligns with a verse in the Quran of focusing on what is within one’s control:“Do not say about anything, ‘I will do that tomorrow,’ without adding, ‘If Allah wills” (Surah Al Kahf, 23-24).

This conveys that despite all that we plan or hope to achieve, none of it is possible without Allah (swt). So focus on the now and do what you can. Allah (swt) is the best of planners, and it is your job to focus on your current state, and the Almighty's job to plan the future for you. So don't stress or worry as what's going to happen, will ultimately happen with the blessing of Allah (swt). Additionally, the concept of living in the present is consistent with Islam’s emphasis on Tawakkul (trusting in Allah) and Ihsan (doing things in the best way possible).

Furthermore, the hadith by Sahih al-Bukhari beautifully encapsulates the concept of living in the present. As stated, Ibn Umar used to say “if you survive till the evening, do not expect to be alive in the morning, and if you survive till the morning, do not expect to be alive in the evening..." (Book 81, Hadith 5). This statement directs attention to the fragility and unpredictability of life. By acknowledging this uncertainty, one is reminded to live fully and with gratitude in the current moment, recognising that we have no control over what happens in the future.

Lesson #2: Disassociate From the ego

Another concept Tolle teaches us is that the ego which is rooted in pride, self-centredness, and attachment to labels, is a major cause of suffering. Islam similarly warns against the dangers of arrogance and excessive attachment to worldly identity. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “The best among you are those who have the best manners and character" (Sahih Bukhari - Book 78, Hadith 59).

Islam teaches that pride is a disease of the heart and a barrier to spiritual growth. According to a Sahih hadith by Jami` at-Tirmidhi, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ stated, “Whoever has a mustard seed's weight of pride (arrogance) in his heart, shall not be admitted into Paradise" (Book 27, Hadith 104). This teaches us to detach from the ego, embrace humility, and focus on pleasing Allah instead of seeking validation from others.

Lesson #3: Become Aware Of Your thoughts

Throughout the book, Tolle encourages us to observe our thoughts without attachment. This practice allows us to separate our true selves from the stream of constantly alternating thoughts. Islam also emphasizes the importance of controlling one’s thoughts and intentions.

According to Sahih Bukhari, Prophet Muhammad ﷺ said, “The (reward of) deeds, depend upon the intentions and every person will get the reward according to what he has intended" (Book 83, Hadith 66). This hadith underscores the power of intention (niyyah) in Islam, suggesting that we should be mindful of our inner state. Observing our thoughts and directing them towards positive, pure intentions helps in maintaining spiritual awareness and staying grounded in our faith.

Furthermore, the Quran encourages self-reflection, mentioned in Surah Al-Hadid, “And He is with you wherever you are” (Quran 57:4). This reminds us that we are never truly alone in our thoughts. Allah (swt) is always aware of our inner state, encouraging mindfulness in all our actions.

Lesson #4: Embrace Acceptance and Let go of resistance

Another lesson we learn from reading The Power Of Now is that acceptance of the present moment, without resistance, leads to inner peace. Islam, too, encourages submission to the will of Allah (swt) and trusting in His divine wisdom.

The Quran beautifully illustrates this in Surah An-Nisa (4:29): “And do not kill each other or yourselves. Surely Allah is ever Merciful to you". This verse emphasizes patience in facing trials and accepting Allah’s plan, even when things don’t go as expected. Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also taught patience and acceptance of what comes from Allah.

This is reflected in the hadith by Sahih Muslim, “Strange are the ways of a believer for there is good in every affair of his and this is not the case with anyone else except in the case of a believer. For if he has an occasion to feel delight, he thanks (God), thus there is a good for him in it, and if he gets into trouble and shows resignation (and endures it patiently), there is a good for him in it" (Book 42, Hadith 1738). This hadith highlights the balance of gratitude and patience, showing that both positive and challenging moments can lead to growth. 

Lesson #5: Pursue Inner Peace

The practice of inner stillness, which Tolle promotes as a way to connect with our true self, can be linked to the Islamic practice of dhikr. The act of remembering Allah in stillness brings peace and tranquility to the heart.

According to the Quran in Surah Ar-Ra'd (13:28), “Surely in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find comfort". This verse emphasizes the tranquility that comes from remembering Allah. A concept that aligns closely with inner stillness and mindfulness in Islam.

Prophet Muhammad ﷺ also encouraged the practice of quiet reflection and remembrance. He states, “The example of the one who celebrates the Praises of his Lord (Allah) in comparison to the one who does not celebrate the Praises of his Lord, is that of a living creature compared to a dead one" (Sahih Bukhari: Book 80, Hadith 102).

This hadith highlights the profound significance of dhikr in Islam. By associating the one who remembers Allah to the living and the one who does not to the dead, the Prophet ﷺ emphasises that the remembrance of Allah is the source of spiritual vitality. This internal stillness is achieved through prayer, dhikr, and mindful living, leading to deeper connection with Allah (swt) and peace of heart.