Rasullullah (s.a.w) beautiful ..Names

Astaghfirallah… Bismillahi Tawakkaltu al-Allah wala haula wa la quata illa billah.---And It is Only Allah Who grants success. May Allah Exalt the mention of His slave and Messenger Muhammad, and render him, his household and companion safe from Evil.

Monday, December 28, 2009

Etiquette of Dreams and Dressing



Etiquette of Dreams

If you see a good dream, then relate i to someone who love you. If an unpleasant dream is observed, one should sputter or blow three times on the left side. Do not reveal bad dreams to anyone. Change sides when seeing bad dreams.

(If sleeping on the right side, turn to the left or vice-versa). When one sees a bad dream read thrice " A'UZU BILLAHI MINASH SHAYTAANIR RAJEEM WA MINB SHARRI HAAZIHIR RU'YAA. By doing so this dream will have no ill-effects. (Muslim)


Etiquette of Dressing

* Eat, drink, give sadaqah (charity) and dress, but do not spoil it with extravagance and pride. (Musnad Ahmad)

* It is permissible for the women of my Ummat to wear gold and silk, but this is strictly forbidden for the men of my Ummat. (Tirmidhi)

* Whoever wear clothes of pride in this world, Allâh Ta'âla will dress him with clothes of shame on the Day of Qiyâmah.

* When wearing clothes and when performing wudhu, begin with the right side first.

* A man should not wear woman's clothing, nor a woman man's clothing, for Allâh's curse descends on such people.

* When putting on shoes, begin by placing the right foot into the right shoe first. * When removing the shoes, remove the left shoe first. (Bukhari)

* Do not walk whilst wearing one shoe only, either wear both or remove both.

Thursday, December 24, 2009

Fasting the 9th and 10th of Muharram



First of all, it is very important to make it clear that fasting on the day of `Ashura’ – the 10th of Muharram- is of great merits in Islam.

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Fasting the day of `Ashura' (is of great merits), I hope that Allah will accept it as an expiation for (the sins committed in) the previous year” (Muslim).

Also, fasting the 9th of Muharram is highly recommended by the Sunnah.

Imam At-Tirmidhi reported that Ibn `Abbas (may Allah be pleased with them both) used to say: We should fast on two days: the 9th and 10th of Muharram to distinguish ourselves from the Jewish community. (At-Tirmidhi)

It is the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) to fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him used to fast on the day of `Ashura'. When he came to Madinah, he found out that the Jews of Madinah were also fasting on this day remembering Prophet Musa (peace and blessings be upon him).

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) admired this tradition and said to the Jews, "I am closer to Musa than you are." He fasted and he also told his Companions to fast on this day. Later, before the end of his life, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) told Muslims to add the 9th day also. Thus, it is recommended to fast on both the 9th and 10th of Muharram.

"Be for Allah and Allah will be for you! "

Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim said: “The degree to which a person is helped and aided by Allah depends on the degree of his intention, drive, aim and hopes. Help from Allah comes to people in proportion to their drive, intention, hopes and fears. Failure comes to them in a similar manner.”

..........Muharram.....................

Muharram is the month with which the Muslims begin their lunar Hijrah Calendar. It is one of the four sanctified months about which the Holy Quran says, "The number of the months according to Allah is twelve (mentioned) in the Book of Allah on the day He created heavens and the earth. Among these (twelve months) there are four sanctified."

These four months, according to the authentic traditions, are Dhul-Qa'dah, Dhul-Hijjah, Muharram and Rajab. All the commentators of the Holy Quran are unanimous on this point, because the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, in his sermon on the occasion of his last Hajj, declared: "One year consists of twelve months, of which four are sanctified months, three of them are in sequence; Dhul-Qa'dah, Dhul-Hijjah, Muharram, and the fourth is Rajab."

The specific mention of these four months does not mean that any other month has no sanctity, because the month of Ramadan is admittedly the most sanctified month in the year.

But these four months were specifically termed as sanctified months for the simple reason that their sanctity was accepted even by the pagans of Makkah.

In fact, every month, out of the twelve, is originally equal to the other, and there is no inherent sanctity that may be attributed to one of them in comparison to the other months. When Allah Almighty chooses a particular time for His special blessings, the same acquires sanctity out of His grace.

Thus, the sanctity of these four months was recognized right from the days of Ibrahim, alayhi salam. Since the Pagans of Makkah attributed themselves to Ibrahim, alayhi salam, they observed the sanctity of these four months and despite their frequent tribal battles, they held it unlawful to fight in these months.

In the Shariah of our Noble Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, the sanctity of these months was upheld and the Holy Quran referred to them as the "sanctified months".

Muharram has certain other characteristics special to it, which are specified below.

Fasting During the MonthThe Noble Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, has said: 'The best fasts after the fasts of Ramadan are those of the month of Muharram."

Although the fasts of the month of Muharram are not obligatory, yet one who fasts in these days out of his own will is entitled to a great reward by Allah Almighty.

The Hadith cited above signifies that the fasts of the month of Muharram are most rewardable ones among the Nafl or voluntary fasts.

The Hadith does not mean that the award promised for fasts of Muharram can be achieved only by fasting for the whole month. On the contrary, each fast during this month has merit. Therefore, one should avail of this opportunity as much as he can.

Wednesday, December 23, 2009

Etiquette of Eating in islam'



Aisha Siddiqa (Radi Allahu anha) narrates that the Prophet of Allah said, "Whenever one eats then he should say the name of Allah (say ) and if he forgets to say Bismillah in the beginning then he should say, "" (Tirmizi, Abu Dawood, and Hakim)

Wahshi Bin Harb (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates that the Prophet of Allah said, "Eat together and read , in this, there is blessing for you." (Masnad Imam-e-Ahmad, Sunan-e-Abi Dawood, Ibne Majah)

Jabir Bin Abdullah (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates that the Prophet of Allah said, "Whenever someone enters the house and at the time of entering and eating recites , the Shaitan says to his offspring that "you will not be able to live or eat in this home", and if at the time of entrance one doesn't read then he [the devil] says "that you have found a place to live" and if someone doesn't read at the time of eating then he says "you found a place to live and you have found food." (Sahih Muslim)

Amr Bin Abi Salma (Radi Allahu anhuma) narrates that I was child in the care of the Prophet of Allah . While eating I would put my mouth on every side of the dish. Rasul-Allah said, "After reading , eat from the right side and eat from that side of the dish which is nearer to you. (Bukhari and Muslim)

Jabir Bin Abdullah and Asma (Radi Allahu anhuma) narrate that Rasul-Allah said, "Cool your meal because there is no blessing in hot food. (Rawahul-Hakim and Abu Dawood)

Abu Saeed Khizri (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates that the Prophet of Allah used to recite after eating food. (Tirmizi)

Aqba Bin Amir (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates Rasul-Allah said, "That meal which has not been read on is illness and there is no blessing in it. The compensation for it is that if the table cloth has not been picked up then read and eat something and if the table cloth has been picked up then read and a lick the fingers. (Ibn Asakar)

Ans Bin Malik (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates that Rasul-Allah said, "Whenever you eat or drink, read this, then you will not get any illness even if it has poison: (Rawahul Daylmee)

Abdullah Bin Umar (Radi Allahu anhuma) narrates that Rasul-Allah said, "When one eats then he should eat with the right hand and when one drinks then he should drink with the right hand. (Bukhari & Muslim)

Ka'ab Bin Malik (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates Rasul-Allah would eat with three fingers and before wiping would lick them with the tongue. (Bukhari and Muslim)

Jabir bin Abdullah (Radi Allahu anhuma) narrates that Rasul-Allah said, "Lick the fingers and the dish. You don't know which part of meal has blessings." (Sahih Muslim)

Nobelsha (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates from Rasul-Allah said, "Whoever, after eating will lick the dish, that dish will do Istighfar for him. (Tirmizi and Musnad-e-Imam Ahmad)

Abdullah Bin Abbas (Radi Allahu anhuma) narrates the Prophet of Allah said, "Do not blow from your mouth into food and water." (Rawahe Tibrani)

Aisha Siddiqa (Radi Allahu anha) narrates that Rasul-Allah entered the house and saw some fallen bread. He picked it up, wiped it, and ate it. Afterwards He said, "Aisha, respect good things. When this thing (bread) runs away from a nation it doesn't return." (Ibn-e-Majah)

Abdullah Bin Umme Haraam (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates that Rasul-Allah said, "Respect bread. It is from the blessings of the skies and earth. Whoever eats fallen bread from the table cloth for him there is Maghfirah [salvation]. (Rawahe Tibrani)

Aisha Siddiqa (Radi Allahu anha) narrates that Rasul-Allah said,"Do not get up from From food (DastarKhawan-Mat) until Food has been picked up" (Ibn-e-Majah)

Abudllah Bin Umar (Radi Allahu anhuma) narrates that Rasul-Allah said, "When the table cloth is chosen, no one should stand until the table cloth is picked up and he should not take away his hand from the food until all have finished eating. If he his going to stop his hands from the food, he should excuse himself because without excusing (oneself) to stopping the hands will embarrass the other person sitting on the table cloth and he too will pull his hands from the food and it's possible that he might still necessitate food.

Ans Bin Malik (Radi Allahu anhuma) narrates that Rasul-Allah said, "Whoever wants that Allah Ta'ala increase blessings and goodness in his home then he should do wudu when the food is presented in front of him and do wudu when it is picked i.e., wash the hands and the mouth. (Ibn-e-Maajah)

Abu Hurairah (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates that the Rasul-Allah said, "If there is the smell of grease on one's hand and he sleeps without washing the hands and some problem reaches him then he should blame himself. (Tirmizi, Abu Dawood, and Ibn-e-Maajah)

Abu Abs Bin Jabr (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates that Rasul-Allah said, "Take off the shoes while eating because this is the better way." (Rawahul Hakim)

Abu Jahefa (Radi Allahu anhu) narrates from Rasul-Allah said, "I don't eat while (resting) on a pillow. (Bukhari)

The Great Women of Islam



Fatima Daughter of Muhammad

Nabî Sallallâhu 'alayhi wasallam would often say: "Fatima is of my flesh, he who angers her, angers me" (Bukhari & Muslim)

Fatimah Radhi-Allâhu 'anhu was the youngest child of Nabî Sallallâhu 'alayhi wasallam and the only child who survived him. Hers was a life of extreme poverty and struggle. She constantly saw her father being mistreated, insulted and humiliated by the disbelievers. One day, when she was barely ten years old, she accompanied her father to the Masjid al-Haram.

He stood in the place known as al-Hijr facing the Kabah and began to pray. Fatimah stood at his side. A group of Quraysh gathered around him. They included Abu Jahl ibn Hisham, the Prophet's uncle, Uqbah ibn Abi Muayt, Umayyah ibn Khalaf, and Shaybah and Utbah.

Abu Jahl, the ringleader, asked: "Which of you can bring the entrails of a slaughtered animal and throw it on Muhammad?" Uqbah ibn Abi Muayt, one of the vilest of the lot, volunteered and hurried off.

He returned with the obnoxious filth and threw it on the shoulders of the Prophet while he was still prostrating. Imagine the feelings of Fatimah as she saw her father being humiliated in this manner. She went up to her father and removed the filth and then stood firmly and angrily before the group of Quraish thugs and lashed out against them. Such scenes of vicious opposition and harassment against her father and the early Muslims were witnessed by the young Fatimah almost everyday.

She did not meekly stand aside but joined in the struggle in defence of her father and his noble mission.

Asiyah wife of Fir'aun "And for those who have faith Allâh has set forth a parable in the (story) of Fir'aun's wife when she prayed:

O my sustainer! Build for me a mansion in paradise by You and save me from Fir'aun and his doings and save me from all evil doing people."

When the magicians fell into sajdah and declared their faith in Allâh and accepted Mûsa Alayhis-Salâm as the Nabî of Allâh - the wife of Fir'aun also declared her faith. Fir'aun began punishing her by pegging her to the ground and exposing her to the midday sun.

Whenever he turned away from her the angels would give her shade with their wings. He then gave her a choice: 'Either retract from your belief or be prepared to be crushed by a huge boulder.' She chose to be crushed.

As she was placed onto the ground she raised her sight towards the sky -she saw her place in Jannah and prayed: "O my sustainer! Build for me a mansion in paradise by You and save me from Fir'aun and his doings and save me from all evil doing people. As she said this, her rûh left her body and the boulder then crushed her lifeless body.

These four women changed the course of human history, through their perseverance, faith and courage.

Miryam Alayhas-Salâm life was characterized by piety, chastity and faith,

Khadija Radhi-Allâhu 'anha neither succumbed to the trappings of wealth, nor to power and fame,

Fatima Radhi-Allâhu 'anha made sabr in the face of unending hardships and was crowned the 'leader of all women in Jannah',

whilst the wife of Fir'aun chose faith over royalty.

These were women distinguished by sabr who found the true friendship of Allâh through their unfailing steadfastness in the face of grinding sacrifices. May Allâh grant us the taufîq to emulate the beautiful conduct of these icons of virtue, humility and courage.

Monday, December 14, 2009

Abdullah Ibn Sailam Radhiallahu 'anhu


Assalamualaikum Warahmatullahi wabarakatuh ..

Abdullah Ibn Sailam Radhiallahu 'anhu

Al-Husayn ibn Sailam was a Jewish rabbi in Yathrib who was widely respected and honoured by the people of the city even by those who were not Jewish. He was known for his piety and goodness, his upright conduct and his truthfulness.

Al-Husayn lived a peaceful and gentle life but he was serious, purposeful and organized in the way he spent his time. For a fixed period each day, he would worship, teach and preach in the temple. Then he would spend some time in his orchard, looking after date palms, pruning and pollinating. Thereafter, to increase his understanding and knowledge of his religion, he would devote himself to the study of the Torah.

In this study, it is said he was particularly struck by some verses of the Torah which dealt with the coming of a Prophet who would complete the message of previous Prophets. Al-Husayn therefore took an immediate and keen interest when he heard reports of the appearance of a Prophet in Makkah.

He said:

"When I heard of the appearance of the Messenger of God, peace be on him, I began to make enquiries about his name, his genealogy, his characteristics, his time and place and I began to compare this information with what is contained in our books. From these enquiries, I became convinced about the authenticity of his prophethood and I affirmed the truth of his mission. However, I concealed my conclusions from the Jews. I held my tongue ...

Then came the day when the Prophet, peace be on him, left Makkah and headed for Yathrib. When he reached Yathrib and stopped at Quba, a man came rushing into the city, calling out to people and announcing the arrival of the Prophet. At that moment, I was at the top of a palm tree doing some work. My aunt, Khalidah bint al-Harith, was sitting under the tree. On hearing the news, I shouted:

'Allahu Akbar! Allahu Akbar! (God is Great! God is Great! 'When my aunt heard my takbir, she remonstrated with me:' May God frustrate you ... By God, if you had heard that Moses was coming you would not have been more enthusiastic. '

'Auntie, he is really, by God, the' brother 'of Moses and follows his religion. He was sent with the same mission as Moses. ' She was silent for a while and then said: 'Is he the Prophet about whom you spoke to us who would be sent to confirm the truth preached by previous (Prophets) and complete the message of his Lord?' 'Yes,' I replied

Without any delay or hesitation, I went out to meet the Prophet. I saw crowds of people at his door. I moved about in the crowds until I reached close to him. The first words I heard him say were:

'O people! Spread peace ... Share food ... Pray during the night while people (normally) sleep ... and you will enter Paradise in peace ... '

I looked at him closely. I scrutinized him and was convinced that his face was not that of an imposter. I went closer to him and made the declaration of faith that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah.

The Prophet turned to me and asked: 'What is your name?' 'Al-Husayn ibn Sailam,' I replied.
'Instead, it is (now) Abdullah ibn Sallam,' he said (giving me a new name). 'Yes,' I agreed. 'Abdullah ibn Sailam (it shall be). By Him who has sent you with the Truth, I do not wish to have another name after this day. '

I returned home and introduced Islam to my wife, my children and the rest of my household. They all accepted Islam including my aunt KhaIidah who was then an old lady. However, I advised them then to conceal our acceptance of Islam from the Jews until I gave them permission. They agreed.
Subsequently, I went back to the Prophet, peace be on him, and said: 'O Messenger of God! The Jews are a people (inclined to) slander and falsehood. I want you to invite their most prominent men to meet you. (During the meeting however), you should keep me concealed from them in one of your rooms. Ask them then about my status among them before they find out of my acceptance of Islam. Then invite them to Islam. If they were to know that I have become a Muslim, they would denounce me and accuse me of everything base and slander me. '

The Prophet kept me in one of his rooms and invited the prominent Jewish personalities to visit him. He introduced Islam to them and urged them to have faith in God ... They began to dispute and argue with him about the Truth. When he realized that they were not inclined to accept Islam, he put the question to them:

'What is the status of Al-Husayn ibn Sailam among you?'

'He is our sayyid (leader) and the son of our sayyid. He is our rabbi and our alim (scholar), the son of our rabbi and alim. '

'If you come to know that he has accepted Islam, would you accept Islam also?' asked the Prophet.
'God forbid! He would not accept Islam. May God protect him from accepting Islam, 'they said (horrified).

At this point I came out in full view of them and announced: 'O assembly of Jews! Be conscious of God and accept what Muhammad has brought. By God, you certainly know that he is the Messenger of God and you can find prophecies about him and mention of his name and characteristics in your Torah. I for my part declare that he is the Messenger of God. I have faith in him and believe that he is true. I know him. '

'You are a liar,' they shouted. 'By God, you are evil and ignorant, the son of an evil and ignorant person.' And they continued to heap every conceivable abuse on me ... "

Abdullah ibn Sailam approached Islam with a soul thirsty for knowledge. He was passionately devoted to the Quran and spent much time reciting and studying its beautiful and sublime verses. He was deeply attached to the noble Prophet and was constantly in his company.

Much of his time he spent in the masjid, engaged in worship, in learning and in teaching. He was known for his sweet, moving and effective way of teaching study circles of Sahabah who assembled regularly in the Prophet's mosque.

Abdullah ibn Sallam was known among the Sahabah as a man from ahl-al-Jannah "- the people of Paradise. This was because of his determination on the advice of the Prophet to hold steadfastly to the" most trustworthy handhold "that is belief in and total submission to God.

-The Authentic and Connected Regarding the Character of the Companions (As-sahih Al-Musnad min Fadha'il As-Sahaaba) by Abi Abdullah Mustafa ibn Al-'Adawi

Friday, December 11, 2009

Virtues of Friday (Jummah Mubarak)



Praise be to Allaah.

Friday has many distinguishing features and virtues that Allaah has bestowed upon this day and not others.

It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah and Hudhayfah (may Allaah be pleased with them) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Allaah led those who came before us away from Friday. The Jews had Saturday, and the Christians had Sunday. Then Allaah brought us and Allaah guided us to Friday. So there is Friday, Saturday and Sunday, and thus they will follow us on the Day of Resurrection. We are the last of the people of this world but we will be the first on the Day of Resurrection, and we will be dealt with before all others.” Narrated by Muslim, 856.

Al-Nawawi said:

Al-Qaadi said: The apparent meaning is that it was obligatory for them to venerate Friday but this was not stated clearly; the matter was left to their own reasoning… But they did not manage to work it out and Allaah did not guide them to it. It was enjoined clearly upon this ummah, and was not left to their own reasoning, thus they were blessed with it …

It was narrated that Moosa enjoined Friday upon them and told them of its virtues, but they disputed with him and argued that Saturday was better, and it was said to him, ‘Let them be.’ Al-Qaadi said: if there had been a clear command, their arguing with him would not have been valid, rather it would have been said to him that they were going against the command. I say: it may be that that was clearly enjoined upon them but they disputed as to whether it was something they had to adhere to or they could change it to another day; they decided to change it to another day and they erred greatly thereby.

It comes as no surprise that Friday was specifically enjoined upon them and they went against that.

Al-Haafiz said:

How can it be otherwise when they are the ones who said “We hear and we disobey”?

It was narrated from Aws ibn Aws that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The best of your days is Friday. On that day Adam (peace be upon him) was created; on that day he died; on that day the Trumpet will be blown and on that day all of creation will swoon. So send a great deal of blessings upon me, for your blessings will be shown to me.” They said, “O Messenger of Allaah, how will our blessings upon you be shown to you when you have turned to dust?” He said, “Allaah has forbidden the earth to consume the bodies of the Prophets, peace be upon them.”

Narrated by Abu Dawood, 1047; classed as saheeh by Ibn al-Qayyim in his comments on Sunan Abi Dawood, 4/273; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh Abi Dawood, 925.

It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The best day on which the sun rises is Friday. On it Adam was created, on it he was admitted to Paradise and on it he was expelled therefrom.”

Narrated by Muslim, 1410.

This hadeeth includes some of the reasons why Friday is regarded as special.

Al-Nawawi said:

Al-Qaadi ‘Iyaad said: The apparent meaning is that these virtues do not mean that Friday is regarded as special because Adam was expelled on a Friday and the Hour will begin on a Friday. Rather it is meant to explain what momentous events took place and will take place on this day, so that people will make the most of this day to do righteous deeds, so as to attain the mercy of Allaah and ward off His punishment. This is the view of al-Qaadi. Abu Bakr ibn al-‘Arabi said in his book al-Ahwadhi fi Sharh al-Tirmidhi: All of these events are good and add to the virtue of Friday. The expulsion of Adam from Paradise is the reason why his offspring and the Messengers, the Prophets, the righteous and the awliya’ exist. He was not expelled from it as such, but rather it was for a purpose, then he will return to it. With regard to the Hour beginning on a Friday, the reason is so that the reward may be hastened for the Prophets, believers in truth, awliya’ and others, and their honour and high status may be made manifest. This hadeeth points to the virtues of Friday and its high status in relation to the other days.

It was narrated that Abu Lubaabah ibn ‘Abd al-Mundhir said: The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Friday is the master of days, and the greatest of them before Allaah. It is greater before Allaah than the day of al-Adha and the day of al-Fitr. It has five characteristics: on this day Allaah created Adam, on it He sent Adam down to the earth, on it Allaah caused Adam to die, on it there is a time when a person does not ask Allaah for anything but He gives it to him, so long as he does not ask for anything haraam, and on it the Hour will begin. There is no angel who is close to Allaah, no heaven, no earth, no wind, no mountain and no sea that does not fear Friday.”

Narrated by Ibn Maajah, 1084; classed as hasan by Shaykh al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, no. 2279

Al-Sanadi said:

“They fear Friday” means they fear the onset of the Hour. This indicates that all created beings are aware of the days and they know that the Day of Resurrection will come on a Friday.

The virtues of this day include the following:

1 – On it is Salaat al-Jumu’ah (Friday prayer), which is the best of prayer. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“O you who believe (Muslims)! When the call is proclaimed for the Salaah (prayer) on Friday (Jumu‘ah prayer), come to the remembrance of Allaah [Jumu‘ah religious talk (Khutbah) and Salaah (prayer)] and leave off business (and every other thing). That is better for you if you did but know!” [al-Jumu’ah 62:9]

Muslim (233) narrated from Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The five daily prayers and from one Jumu’ah to the next is an expiation for whatever sins come in between them, so long as one does not commit a major sin.”

2 – Praying Fajr in congregation on Fridays is the best prayer that the Muslim can pray during the week.

It was narrated that Ibn ‘Umar said: The Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The best prayer before Allaah is Fajr prayer on Friday in congregation.”

Narrated by al-Bayhaqi in Shu’ab al-Eemaan; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Jaami’, 1119

One of the special features of Fajr prayer on Friday is that it is Sunnah to recite Soorat al-Sajdah in the first rak’ah and Soorat al-Insaan in the second.

It was narrated from Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to recite in Fajr prayer in Fridays Alif-Laam-Meem Tanzeel (Soorat al-Sajdah) in the first rak’ah and Hal ata ‘ala’l-insaan heenun min al-dahr lam yakun shay’an madhkooran (Soorat al-Insaan) in the second.

Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 851; Muslim, 880.

It was narrated from Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to recite in Fajr prayer in Fridays Alif-Laam-Meem Tanzeel (Soorat al-Sajdah) in the first rak’ah and Hal ata ‘ala’l-insaan heenun min al-dahr lam yakun shay’an madhkooran (Soorat al-Insaan) in the second.

Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 851; Muslim, 880.

Al-Haafiz Ibn Hajar said: It was said that the reason why these two soorahs are recited is because they mention the creation of Adam and what will happen on the Day of Resurrection, because that will come to pass on a Friday.

3 – Whoever dies during the day or night of Friday, Allaah will protect him from the trial of the grave. It was narrated that ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Amr said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There is no Muslim who dies during the day of Friday or the night of Friday but Allaah will protect him from the trial of the grave.”

Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 1074; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Ahkaam al-Janaa’iz, p. 49, 50

These are some of the virtues of Friday. We ask Allaah to help us to please Him. And Allaah knows best.

Muhammad The Last Prophet

Muhammad The Last Prophet (2004) 1/9


Muhammad The Last Prophet (2004) 2/9


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Muhammad The Last Prophet (2004) 7/9


Muhammad The Last Prophet (2004) 8/9

Wednesday, December 2, 2009

A Muslim believes



A Muslim believes in One God, Supreme and Eternal, Infinite and Mighty, Merciful and Compassionate, Creator and Provider.

God has no father nor mother, no sons nor daughters. He has not fathered anyone nor was He fathered. None equal to Him. He is God of all mankind, not of a special tribe or race.

God is High and Supreme but He is very near to the pious thoughtful believers; He answers their prayers and helps them. He loves the people who love Him and forgives their sins. He gives them peace, happiness, knowledge and success.

God is the Loving and the Provider, the Generous and the Benevolent, the Rich and the Independent, the Forgiving and the Clement, the Patient and the Appreciative, the Unique and the Protector, the Judge and the Peace. God's attributes are mentioned in the Quran.

God creates in man the mind to understand, the soul and conscience to be good and righteous, the feelings and sentiments to be kind and humane. If we try to count His favours upon us, we cannot, because they are countless.

In return for all the great favours and mercy, God does not need anything from us, because he is Needless and Independent.

God asks us to know Him, to love Him and to enforce His Law for our own benefit and our own good.

A Muslim believes in all the Messengers and Prophets of God without any discrimination.

All messengers were mortals, human beings, endowed with Divine revelations and appointed by God to teach mankind. The Holy Quran mentions the names of 25 messengers and prophets and states that there are others. These include Noah, Abrahim, Ishmael, Isaac, Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad. Their message is the same and it is Islam and it came from One and the Same Source; God, and it is to submit to His will and to obey his law, ie, to become a Muslim.

A Muslim believes in all scriptures and revelations of God, as they were complete and in their original versions.

Revelations were given to guide the people to the right path of God. The Quran refers to the books revealed to Abrahim, Moses, David, Jesus and Muhammad.

Today, the books before the Quran do not exist in their original form. They are lost or corrupted or concealed. Weakness in the early period of Judaism and Christianity are partly responsible.

Today the Quran is the only authentic and complete book of God. No scholar has questioned the fact that the Quran today is the same as it was more than 1400 years ago. Muslims till today memorize the Quran word by word as a whole or in part.

God who revealed the Quran is protecting it from being lost, corrupted, or concealed.

A Muslim believes in the angels of God.

They are purely spiritual and splendid beings created by God. They require no food or drink or sleep. They have no physical desires nor material needs.

Angels spend their time in the service of God. Each charged with a certain duty. Angels cannot be seen by the naked eyes. Knowledge and truth are not entirely confined to sensory knowledge or sensory perception alone.

A Muslim believes in the day of Judgement.

This world as we know it will come to an end and the dead will rise to stand for their final and fair trial. Everything we do, say, make, intend and think are accounted for and kept in accurate records. They are brought up on the day of Judgement.

People with good records will be generously rewarded and warmly welcomed to God's Heaven. People with bad records will be fairly punished and cast into Hell.

The real nature of Heaven and Hell are known to God only, but they are described by God in man's familiar terms in the Quran.

If some good deeds are seen not to get full appreciation and credit in this life, they will receive full compensation and be widely acknowledged on the Day of Judgement.

If some people who commit sins, neglect God and indulge in immoral activities seem superficially successful and prosperous in this life, absolute justice will be done to them on the Day of Judgement.

The time of the Day of Judgement is only known to God and God alone.

A Muslim believes in "Qadaa" and "Qadar".

"Qadaa" and "Qadar" means the Timeless Knowledge of God and His power to plan and execute His plans. God is not indifferent to this world nor is He neutral to it.

God is Wise, Just and Loving and whatever He does must have a good motive, although we may fail sometimes to understand it fully.

We should have strong faith in God and accept whatever He does because our knowledge is limited and our thinking is based on individual consideration, whereas His knowledge is limitless and He plans on a universal basis.

Man should think, plan, and make sound choices, but if things do not happen the way he wants, he should not lose faith and surrender himself to mental strains or shattering worries.

A Muslim believes that the purpose of life is to worship God.

Worshipping God does not mean we spend our entire lives in constant seclusion and absolute meditation. To worship God is to live life according to His commands, not to run away from it.

To worship God is to know Him, to love Him, to obey His commands, to enforce His laws in every aspect of life, to serve His cause by doing right and shunning evil and to be just to Him, to ourselves and to our fellow human beings.

A Muslim believes that man enjoys an especially high ranking status in the hierarchy of all known creatures.

Man occupies this distinguished position because he alone is gifted with rational faculties and spiritual aspirations as well as powers of action.

Man is not a condemned race from birth to death, but a dignified being potentially capable of good and noble achievements.

A Muslim believes that every person is born "Muslim".

Every person is endowed by God with spiritual potential and intellectual inclination that can make him a good Muslim.

Every person's birth takes place according to the will of God in realization of His plans and in submission to His commands.

A Muslim believes that every person is born free from sin.

When the person reaches the age of maturity and if he is sane, he becomes accountable for all his deeds and intentions. Man is free from sin until he commits sin.

There is no inherited sin, no original sin. Adam committed the first sin, he prayed to God for pardon, and God granted Adam pardon.

A Muslim believes that man must work out his salvation through the guidance of God.

No one can act on behalf of another or intercede between him and God.

In order, to obtain salvation a person must combine faith and action, belief and practice. Faith without doing good deeds is as insufficient as doing good deeds without faith.

A Muslim believes that God does not hold any person responsible until he has shown him the Right Way.

If people do not know and have no way of knowing about Islam, they will not be responsible for failing to be Muslim. Every Muslim must preach Islam words and in action.

A Muslim believes that faith is not complete when it is followed blindly or accepted unquestioningly.

Man must build his faith on well-grounded convictions beyond any reasonable doubt and above uncertainty.

Islam insured freedom to believe and forbids compulsion in religion. (one of the oldest synagogues and one of the oldest churches in the world are in Muslim countries).
A Muslim believes that the Quran is the word of God revealed to prophet Muhammad through the Angel Gabriel.

The Quran was revealed from God on various occasions to answer questions, solve problems, settle disputes and to be man's best guide to the truth.

The Quran was revealed in Arabic and it is still in its original and complete Arabic version until today. It is memorized by millions.

A Muslim believes in a clear distinction between the Quran and the Traditions of the Prophet Muhammad.

Whereas the Quran is the word of God, the Traditions of Prophet Muhammad (his teachings, sayings, and actions) are the practical interpretations of the Quran.

Both the Quran and the Traditions of the Prophet Muhammad are the primary sources of knowledge in Islam.

Monday, November 23, 2009

The Virtues of the day of Arafat



All praise to Allah who made the confession of monotheism a protection and fortification for His servants. His is praise, blessing and dominion. And I bear witness that our Master and Prophet Mohammed is His servant and Messenger, who said, 'The Hujjaj and 'Ummar are the delegation of Allah. If they supplicate to Him He responds and if they ask Him for forgiveness He forgives them.'

O Allah praise and give peace to our Master Mohammed, his family and pure, righteous companions.

Servants of Allah, I exhort you and myself to have taqwa (wariness) of Allah and obedience to Him. And I warn you and myself of rebellion against Him and disobeying His order. I also ask you servants of Allah to be wary of Allah on the day of Arafat. There are many significant features for this day

It is the day Allah has perfected Islam and blessed us with many things. Allah says 'This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favor upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion.' This holy verse has explained a lot and become a clear announcement in the history of religions.

The Day of Arafat is a celebration of All Muslims. That is why people on Hajjj must not fast on the Day of Arafat because it is the beginning of their Eid. Muslims must not fast on a celebrated day such as Eid.

Fasting on the day of Arafat wipes out the sins of two years. The people of Arafat (pilgrims who stay in Arafat during Hajj) get closer to Allah by praying to him. On the other hand, their Muslim brothers who did not have the chance to perform Hajj shall get closer to Allah by fasting on the day of Arafat. In return, Allah awards them with mercy for the year that passed and the year that would come. He would also forgive them for the mistakes and sins they have committed.

Arafat is a day of mercy. Allah gets closer to the people of Arafat and awards them with dignity, happiness, joy and strength.

Arafat is the day of unity. All Muslims unite on this day under the name of Allah. It is the day Allah has perfected Islam and completed it. It is the day Muslims perform the most important act of Hajj, which is standing on the mountain of Arafat. Allah says 'There is no sin on you if you seek the Bounty of your Lord (during pilgrimage by trading). Then when you leave ‘Arafat, remember Allah at the Mash‘ar-il-Haram. And remember Him as He has guided you, and verily, you were, before, of those who were astray. Then depart from the place whence all the people depart and ask Allah for His Forgiveness. Truly, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most-Merciful.'

the day of Arafat is also a day of renewing the ties with Prophet Ibrahim (Abraham) may Allah's peace be upon him, the father of all prophets. Allah says 'Then, We have sent the revelation to you (O Muhammad saying): "Follow the religion of Ibrahim (Abraham) Hanif (Islamic Monotheism- to worship none but Allah) and he was not of the Mushrikun (polytheists, idolaters and disbelievers).' He also says 'He has chosen you (to convey His Message of Islamic Monotheism to mankind by inviting them to His religion of Islam), and has not laid upon you in religion any hardship: It is the religion of your father Ibrahim (Abraham) (Islamic Monotheism). It is He (Allah) who has named you Muslims both before and in this (the Quran), that the Messenger may be a witness over you and you be witnesses over humanity!'

The day of Arafat is the day of asking for forgiveness and repentance. It is the day of purity from all the sins pilgrims have committed. Servants of Allah, these are few significant facts about the day of Arafat. I ask Allah to forgive you and me.

Saturday, November 21, 2009

Wise sayings of the righteous on their death beds



Abu Bakr As-Siddiq(may Allah be pleased with him)

When he was on his deathbed, Abu Bakr summoned for Umar to come to him. When the latter arrived, Abu Bakr said "indeed , i want to give you some final advice-if you will accept it from me: Indeed , Allah azza wa-jall has rights during the night, wich he does not accept during the day; and rights during the day, wich he does not accept during the night. And verily, He Azza wa-Jall does not accept voluntary acts of worship until obligatory ones are fist performed . Do you not see that those whose scales are heavy in the hereafter are heavy only because they followed the truth in the world, for doing so was heavy upon them(i.e, it required striving and effort, like an upward climb.) And it is befitting for a scale to be heavy when only truth is placed on it. Do you not see that those whose scales(i.e , scales of good deeds) are light in the hereafter are light only because they followed falsehood in the world; and doing so was light for them( i.e, easy, without strain, like descending a downward slope). And it is only befitting for a scale to be light when only falsehood is placed on it. Do you not see that Allah aza wa-jall revealed verses that inspire hope after verses that inspire terror, and verses that inspire terror after verses that inspire hope. This is so that a slave remains both hopeful (of reward) and fearful(of punishment), without taking his own life, and without hoping for anything other than the truth from Allah Azza wa-jall. If you remember and preserve (i., apply) this advice of mine, then let no matter of the unseen world be more beloved too you than death-wich, at any rate, is inevitable. And if you do not heed this advice of mine, then let no matter from the unseen world be more hateful to you than death."

Umar bin Al-Khattab

Ibn Umar said " After Umar was stabbed,(i placed his) head on my lap. He said " place my head on the ground". Thinking that that was simply restlessness on his part, i did not do as he asked. Then he said, " Place my cheak on the ground-may you have no mother! Woe upon me , and woe upon my mother , if Allah azzza wa-jall does not forgive me"

And when Umar was in the final moments of his life, Al-Mughirah bin Shu'bah said to him "congratulations to you for paradise, o leader of the belivers". Though one should not say such statments to somwone while he is healthy, it is recommended to do so when someone is dying, so as to help him have good thoughts about Allah,

"O ibn umm al-mughirah," Umar said, " And what makes you know (that i will enter paradise)? by the one who has my soul in his hand, if i possessed all that is in the east and in the west, i would have ransomed it all to be saved from the terror of the beginning (of judment day)"

Uthman bin Affan(may Allah be pleased with him)

After Uthman bin Affan was killed, his belongings were searched. Among the things that were found was a locked box. When it was tried open, a jar containing a piece of paper was found. On the piece of paper the following was written:

This is the final testament of Utham bin Affan. In the name of Allah, The most gracious, the most merciful. Uthman bin Affan bears witness that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah alone, and he has no partner; that muhammad (saw) is his slave and messenger; that paradise is a reality ; that hell is a reality; that Allah will resurrect those that are in their graves on a day regarding wich there is no doubt; and that Allah never fails in his promise. Upon this (testimony) does he
(i.e, hemself, Uthman) live, upon this does he die, and upon this will he be resurrected, In sha'Allah.

Ali bin Abu Talib(may Allah be pleased with him)

When Ali was struck with a lethal blow, he said "where is the one who struck me?"

"we have apprehended him" Someone said

"Feed him from my own food", Ali instructed . "And provide for him from my supply of drink. If i get through this alive, I will issue judgment regarding his case. But if i die, then kill him with no more than a single blow( i.e dont torture him)"

Ali then charged Al-Hasan with the duty of washing his corpse, making it clear that Al-Hasan should not be extravagant in providing him with a shroud. Ali then said , "Indeed, I heard the messenger of Allah say:

"Do not be extravagant with the shroud, for it will be quickly taken away from him(i.e, the earth tears it apart quickly)" Abu dawood 3154

And when you walk with me (i.e, carry me to the grave), walk neither fast nor slow, for if (my destination) is good , you will be hastening me towards it, but if (my destination) is evil, then at least you will have cast me from your shoulders (i.e, Freed yourselves from me)."



Sa'd bin Abu Waqqas(may Allah be pleased with him)

When sa'd ws on the verge of dying , he requested that someone should bring him a tattered, wool garment that he had been keeping safe for many years. " Enshroud me in it," he said, " For indeed , I was wearing it when i fought the disbelievers on the day of badr, and i have been saving it jut for this very day."

Mu'adh bin Jabal(may Allah be pleased with him)

When Mu'adh was about to die, he said, " O, Allah , i have feared you my entire life , yet today i am hping from you (i.e, hoping for your mercy). O Allah , you indeed know that i did not love the world for a long stay in it, for the flowing of rivers, or for the planting of trees; but rather for the thirst of the midday heat(i.e., for fasting on a hot day), for striving hours at a time (in worship), and for sitting near scholars in circles of remembrance (i.e., gatherings whering you are remembered)."

Khalid ibn Al-Waleed(may Allah be pleased with him)

When the time of Khalid ibn Al-Waleed, r.a., came to depart from the world, he said: "I reached every possible place for Shahadah, but it was written in my fate that I should die on my bed. In my opinion there is no deed more dearer than my waiting with my horse and shield in the darkness of night, the sky to be glittering due to the rain, waiting for the onset of dawn, so that I can attack the enemy."Ibn al-Mubarak in al-Jihad

The 8 benefits



Hātim Al-Asam was among the friends of Shaqīq Al – Balkhi (may Allah have mercy on them both). One day Shaqīq asked Hātim: “You have accompanied me for thirty years; what have you gained?” Hātim replied: “I have gained eight benefits from the knowledge which suffices for me as I hope my success and safety are embodied in them.”

فقال شقيق: ما هى؟ قال حاتم

Shaqīq asked; “What are they?”

Hātim replied:

الفائدة الأولى: أنى نظرت إلى الخلق فرأيت لكل منهم محبوبا ومعشوقا يحبه ويعشقه، وبعض ذلك المحبوب يصاحبه إلى مرض الموت وبعضه يصاحبه إلى شفير القبر، ثم يرجع كله ، ويتركه فريدا وحيدا، ولا يدخل معه فى قبره منهم أحد فتفكرت وقلت: أفضل محبوب المرء ما يدخل معه فى قبره، ويؤنسه فيه، فما وجدته غير الأعمال الصالحة ، فأخذتها محبوبه لى ، لتكون لى سراجا فى قبرى، وتؤنسنى فيه ، ولا تتركنى فريدا.

The first benefit ~ I observed the creation and saw that everyone had a loved one and one passionately desired whom he loved and longed for. Some of the beloved accompany the lover up to the brink of sickness and death and others to the gate of the graveyard. All of them return and leave him there alone. No one goes into the tomb with him. I reflected on that and said to myself:

أفضل محبوب المرء ما يدخل معه فى قبره، ويؤنسه فيه

“The best beloved is that which would enter the tomb with the lover to console him”; I found nothing other than good works, so I took this as my beloved where with to illuminate my grave and to comfort me in it and not leave me alone.

فتأملت قوله تعالى ( واما من خاف مقام ربه ونهى النفس عن الهوى ، فإن الجنه هى المأوى).

وتيقنت أن القرآن حق صادق فبادرت إلى خلاف النفس وتشمرت بمجاهدتها ، وما متعتها بهواها ، حتى ارتاضت بطاعة الله تعالى وانقادت.

The second benefit ~ I saw that creation(people) were following their lusts and hastening towards (fulfilling the demands of lowly) desires of the selves; and I meditated on the saying of the Exalted:

واما من خاف مقام ربه ونهى النفس عن الهوى ، فإن الجنه هى المأوى

“Whoever has feared the lofty position of his Lord and has refrained his soul from lust, truly the Garden shall be his dwelling place.” Convinced that the Qur’an was true and tight, I began to oppose the notion of yielding to the demands of the self and hastened to combat it and refuse it its lowly desires, until it enjoyed satisfaction in being obedient to Allah the Exalted.

يه فتأملت فى قوله تعالى : ( ما عندكم ينفد وما عند الله باق )
فبذلت محصولى من الدنيا لوجه الله تعالى ففرقته بين المساكين ليكون ذخرا لى عند الله تعالى.

The third benefit ~ I noted that every human being rushes to accumulate as much as he can from the wreckage of this material world and then holding on strongly to it. I meditated on the saying of the Most High:

( ما عندكم ينفد وما عند الله باق)

“What is with you must vanish’ what is with Allah endures.”

So I gave freely my worldly possessions for the sake of the Most High by distributing them among the poor so that it would be my provision in the future with Him the Exalted.

ه فى ثروة الأموال وكثرة الأولاد ، فافتخروا بها. وحسب بعضهم أن العز والشرف فى غصب أموال الناس وظلمهم وسفك دمائهم. واعتقدت طائفة أنه فى اتلاف المال واسرافه وتبذيره،

فتأملت قوله تعالى : ( إن أكرمكم عند الله أتقاكم) فاخترت التقوى واعتقدت أن القرآن حق صادق، وظنهم وحسبانهم كلها باطل زائل.

The fourth benefit ~ I observed some people thought that their dignity and honor lie in the multitude of their family and large clans and they were fascinated by those things. Others considered honor and dignity to be in abundance of wealth and children and they were proud of it. Some believed honor and power abide in appropriating the wealth of others, oppressing them and killing them. Others considered dignity to consist of extravagance and spending wealth like water. I meditated upon the saying of the Exalted: إن أكرمكم عند الله أتقاكم

“The most honored of you in the sight of Allah is he who is the most righteous of you.”

I chose righteousness for myself, convinced that the Qur’an is right and true and those claims and opinions of people are false and temporal.”

الفائدة الخامسة : أنى رأيت الناس يذم بعضهم بعضا ، ويغتاب بعضهم بعضا
فوجدت أصل ذلك من الحسد فى المال والجاه والعلم
فتأملت فى قوله تعالى : ( نحن قسمنا بينهم معيشتهم فى الحياة الدنيا)
فعلمت أن القسمة كانت من الله تعالى فى الأزل، فما حسدت أحدا ورضيت بقسمة الله تعالى

The fifth benefit ~ I noticed the people undermining each other and speaking ill of one another and I found that was due to envy of fortune, power or knowledge. I meditated upon the saying of Allah: نحن قسمنا بينهم معيشتهم فى الحياة الدنيا

“It is We who divide their livelihood among them in the life of this world.”

I realized that the process of dividing livelihood is in the hands of Allah since the beginning of time. I therefore never envied any one anyone and was satisfied with the distribution of Allah the Exalted.

أنى رأيت الناس يعادى بعضهم بعضا لغرض وسبب
فتأملت فى قوله تعالى : ( إن الشيطان لكم عدو فاتخذوه عدوا)
فعلمت أنه لا يجوز عداوة احد غير الشيطان

The sixth benefit ~ I saw people becoming enemies of each other for various reasons. I mediated upon the saying of the Exalted: “Verily Satan is an enemy to you, so treat him as an enemy.”

I became aware that enmity with anyone but Satan was not permissible.

أنى رأيت كل أحد يسعى بجد ، ويجتهد بمبالغة لطلب القوت والمعاش
بحيث يقع فى شبهة وحرام ويذل نفسه وينقص قدره
فتأملت فى قوله تعالى : ( وما من دابه فى الأرض إلا على الله رزقها)
فعلمت أن رزقى على الله تعالى وقد ضمنه ، فاشتغلت بعبادته ، وقطعت طمعى عمن سواه

The seventh benefit ~ I saw everyone working very hard, exhausting themselves in obtaining food and sustenance, tempted by doubts and forbidden things. They degrade themselves and diminish their potential..
I pondered over the saying of the Exalted: وما من دابه فى الأرض إلا على الله رزقها
“There is no moving creature on earth but its sustenance dependent on Allah.”

I knew that my livelihood is guaranteed by Allah the Exalted so I engaged myself in worship and cut off my covetousness of other than He.

الفائدة الثامنة : أنى رأيت كل واحد معتمدا على شىء مخلوق ، بعضهم على الدينار والدرهم ، وبعضهم على المال والملك ، وبعضهم على الحرفة والصناعة ، وبعضهم على مخلوق مثله، فتأملت فى قوله تعالى :
( ومن يتوكل على الله فهو حسبه إن الله بالغ أمره قد جعل الله لكل شىء قدرا)
فتوكلت على الله تعالى فهو حسبى ونعم الوكيل

The eighth benefit ~is that I saw that everyone relied on some created thing, some on the dinār and dirham, some on wealth and property, some on trade and industry and some on creatures like themselves.
I meditated upon the saying of the Exalted:

ومن يتوكل على الله فهو حسبه إن الله بالغ أمره قد جعل الله لكل شىء قدرا

“And whosoever places his reliance on Allah, sufficient is [Allah] for him. For Allah will surely accomplishes His purpose. Verily for all things has Allah appointed a due proportion for everything.”

I therefore placed full reliance in Allah the Exalted. He is sufficient for me and He is the best Disposer of affairs.’

Shaqīq then said: “May Allah bless you and grant you success. I looked into the Old Testament, and Gospel, the Psalms and the Qur’an and have found that the four books revolve around these eight benefits. Whoever acts according to them is acting according to these four books.”

Friday, November 20, 2009

The Unrestricted Takbir



The transmitted wording of takbir is: “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, La Ilaha Illa Allah; Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, walillah Al Hamd” (Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest. There is no god but Allah; Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, and all praise is due to Allah).

There is also another version transmitted from Salman, (may Allah be pleased with him), who used to say: “Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar Kabira” (Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Ever Greatest).

Then he followed this by sending blessings on the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). This version of Takbir is applicable at any time, however, it was not transmitted from the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) nor from any other righteous companions (may Allah be pleased with them).

There are two types of takbir in Dhul-Hijjah: unrestricted takbir and restricted takbir. Unrestricted takbir is applicable at any time or place, from the first of Dhul-Hijjah until the days of `Eid. Hence, a man can make takbir in the roads, markets, in Mina, and also when people meet each other. All these are occasions for unrestricted takbir.

Thursday, November 19, 2009

The Blessed Days of Zol-Hijjah





Allaahu Akbar Allaahu Akbar, laa ilaaaha il lal laahu wallaahu Akbar WalAllaahu Akbar walil laahil Hamd!!!

Ibn 'Abbas reports that the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu 'alaihi wa sallam) said, "No good deeds done on other days are superior to those done on these days [meaning the ten days of Dhul-Hijjah]."

The Prophet, peace be upon him, exclaimed to his Companions, "O people, would you like to be serious in your supplications?" They replied, "Yes, O Allah's Messenger." He said, "Then ask Him, 'O Allah, help us in remembering You, in offering thanks to You, and in worshipping You properly'.' (Al-Hakim)



Concerning humbleness, Prophet Muhammad said, "Allah revealed to me that we should be humble among ourselves and none should show pride upon the others" (Muslim).

The Qur'an also extends its instruction to all Muslims and advises them not to over-praise themselves, where it says what means:(Therefore justify not yourselves: He knows best who it is that guards against evil) (An-Najm 53:32)



"O our Lord! Forgive me [rabba-nâ 'ghfir lî] and my parents and (all) the believers on the Day when the Reckoning is established!" [Qur'an 14:42].

Allah said: "That they might witness things that are of benefit to them (i.e., reward of Hajj in the Hereafter, and also some worldly gain from trade, etc.), and mention the name of Allah on appointed days, over the beast of cattle that He has provided for them (for sacrifice)..." (Al-Hajj chapter 22, verse 28



"The ‘appointed days’ are the first ten days (of Dhul Hijjah)."~The Tak-beer may include the words, "Al-laa-hu akbar, Al-laa-hu akbar, la ilaa-ha illa-Allah. Wa-llaa-hu akbar wa Lil-laahi’l-hamd”(((Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, there is no god but Allah; Allah is Most Great and to Allah be praise), as well as other phrases.

Allaahu Akbar Allaahu Akbar, laa ilaaaha il lal laahu wallaahu Akbar WalAllaahu Akbar walil laahil Hamd



And Allah would not punish them while they would seek His Forgiveness. [Al-Anfal 8:33]

Allah Says (interpretation of meaning):O you who believe! Fear Allâh (by doing all that He has ordered and by abstaining from all that He has forbidden) as He should be feared.[Obey Him, be thankful to Him, and remember Him always], and die not except in a state of Islâm (as Muslims) with complete submission to Allâh.[Quran 3: 102].



It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (S) said: “A man who weeps for fear of Allaah will not enter Hell until the milk goes back into the udder, and dust produced (when fighting) for the sake of Allaah and the smoke of Hell will never coexist.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 1633; al-Nasaa’i, 3108; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani.

Allaahu Akbar Allaahu Akbar, laa ilaaaha il lal laahu wallaahu Akbar WalAllaahu Akbar walil laahil Hamd

The Virtues of the First 10 days of Dhul Hijjah



The Virtues of the First 10 days of Dhul Hijjah
by Shaykh Sa`d ash-Shitree حفظه الله
Albaseerah News letter Issue # 2 of Vol. 1

From the most virtuous of days are the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah (the 12th month in the lunar calendar, one of the sacred months and the month of Hajj). A group of those from the People of Knowledge say: “Verily they are the best days of the year just as the last ten nights of Ramadaan are the best nights of the year.” Some of the various types of righteous actions which are done in these first ten days are mentioned below:

REMEMBRANCE OF ALLAAH

The first of the righteous actions is the remembrance of Allaah سبحانه وتعالى. Allaah سبحانه وتعالى said: {…and the men and the women who remember Allaah much with their hearts and tongues - Allaah has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward (i.e. Paradise).} [al-Ahzaab 33:35]

It is affirmed in a number of texts the encouragement of mentioning the takbeer. Allaah سبحانه وتعالى said: {…and mention the Name of Allaah on appointed days (i.e. 10th, 11th, 12th, and 13th day of Dhul-Hijjah) } [al-Hajj 22:28]

It has been affirmed from the Sahaabah (Companions) of the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم and from him صلى الله عليه وسلم , that they increased in the takbeer (saying “Allaahu Akbar—Allaah is the Greatest) in the first ten days of the month of Dhul Hijjah and they raised their voice with it, each one of them saying the takbeer on his own. They raised their voices until the mountains shook from their takbeer but they did not say the takbeer in unison (in Jamaa’ah). Each of them said the takbeer on his own.

VOLUNTARY ACTS OF WORSHIP

One should implement the voluntary acts of worship - whether prayer, fasting or charity. It is reported in hadeeth that the Prophetصلى الله عليه وسلم encouraged fasting the ten days and it is reported that he صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Whoever fasts the Day of Arafah will have his sins expiated for two years (the past year and the coming year).” [Ibn Maajah]

DO NOT CUT HAIR OR NAILS FOR THE ONE DOING THE SACRIFICE

From what is considered as righteous actions on these ten days is that the one who wants to do the Udhiyyah (sacrificial slaughter) should not cut his hair or nails during these ten days. As such it is desired that he commits himself before these ten days by cutting his hair and nails. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “When any one of you intending to sacrifice the animal enters in the month (of Dhul-Hijjah) he should not get his hair or nails touched (cut)”. [Muslim]

SUPPLICATE FOR THE HUJJAAJ

One should make du`aa (supplication) for the hujjaaj (pilgrims who have embarked upon the Hajj) that Allaah سبحانه وتعالى keeps them safe from all evil and that He returns them to their countries. This is because the hujjaaj are the guests of Ar-Rahmaan so they have a right upon us that we supplicate for them for ease in their affairs and their safe return.

UDHIYYAH - SACRIFICIAL SLAUGHTER

One should prepare to do the Udhiyyah (sacrificial slaughtering of an animal) and arranging distribution of the meat amongst family, friends, the needy etc. This is from the pious and righteous deeds. Abu Haneefah رحمه الله was of the opinion that it was from the obligatory acts but most of others say that it is desirable. The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said “Who does not slaughter should not come to the salaah”. [Ibn Maajah]

ATTEND THE `EED SALAAH

From amongst the righteous actions is attending the salaatul `Eed, greeting one another, and leaving off fasting on the day of `Eed and on the days of Tashreeq (i.e. the 11th, 12th and 13th of Dhul Hijjah).

Based on a lectured by Shaykh Sa`d ash-Shitree (may Allaah preserve him).

We all should ask guidance and forgiveness from Allah (swt).

Wednesday, November 18, 2009

The Best 10 Days (of Dhul-Hijjah) by Shaikh: Yasir Qadhi

(( Takbeer e Tashreeq: Allaahu Akbar Allaahu Akbar, laa ilaaaha il lal laahu wallaahu Akbar WalAllaahu Akbar walil laahil Hamd.))



The Best 10 Days (of Dhul-Hijjah) by Shaikh: Yasir Qadhi

A brief presentation on the Takbeer that is to be made in Dhul Hijjah.



Assalamualaikum, Don't forget to FAST the 1st 9 Days of Dzul-Hijja starting fr 8th Nov.till 18th! -Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) has said:"There are no days during which good deeds are more beloved by Allah than these ten days."(Al-Bukhari,At-Tirmidhi and others)-Allah says:And worship your Lord until there comes unto you the certainty.(Al-Hijr 15:99) ~InshaAllah~


Prepare for the first 10 days of Dhul Hijjah!!!



Dhul Hijjah should start (inshaAllah): Nov 18. 2009 (check with your local mosque) - The virtues are concerned with the first 10 days, 9th being day of Arafah and 10th being Eid!

What sort of extra good deeds can you do? **************************************** *
1. Fasting these 10 days
2. Giving more charity during these 10 days
3. Say the "Eid" Takbeers loudly wherever you go. (Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. Laa ilaaha illa Allah. Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. Walillaahil hamd.)
4. Try to pray more prayers in the Masjid
5. Increase ties of kinship (visit family, say kind words to them, etc.)
6. Perform more voluntary prayers at home
7. Read more Quran, contemplating the meanings
8. Do more Dhikr
9. Ask for forgiveness more frequently

- Taken from Muhammad Al-Shareef

Singer of nasheed: المنشد محمد السلمان
Nasheed: Sakoon Al-layl

Allah(swt) swears by the days in surah Fajr, and there are many authentic traditions regarding them...

I hope everyone inshaAllah prepares for these 10 days like we do for Ramadan!

The Blessed Days of Dhul-Hijjah



What You Can Do in these Blessed Days of Dhul-Hijjah?

The days of Dhul-Hijjah are the most blessed ones; therefore every Muslim should make much from this opportunity. Among the blessings of Allah is that He has given us many ways to perform good deeds and to worship Him, so that the Muslim may be constantly active and consistent in his worship of his Lord. Here are some out of many good deed, which you can perform in these days.

Remember, deeds, which are less preferred are made superior and more beloved to Allah in these days, than the superior deeds performed at other times!! This is indicated in the Hadeeth where the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said regarding Jihad which is the most superior of all deeds to be less superior than the voluntary fast in these days, except that the Mujahid, goes out risking himself and his wealth for the sake of Allah, and does not come back with anything. [Saheeh al-Bukharee]




Hajj and Umrah are the best deeds performed in Dhul-Hijjah.

Fasting as many days as possible, especially the day of Arafat, which is a Sunnah. Fasting is one of the best of deeds. Allah chose fasting for Himself from all the good deeds, as is stated in the Hadeeth Qudsee: All the deeds of the son of Adam are for him, except for fasting, which is for Me and I am the One Who will reward him for it. [Saheeh al-Bukharee (1085)]

Takbeer al-Muqayyid: The Takbeer, which is restricted to the time after the five obligatory Salaat. This begins from after Fajr prayer of the day of Arafat (for the non-pilgrims) until the Asr prayer of the last day of Tashreeq.

Takbeer al-Mutlaq: The unrestricted Takbeer; Allahu Akbar, at all times of night and day until Eid al-Ahda.

Perform plenty of Nafl (voluntary) prayers.

Recite and Memorize the Qur'aan.

Abstain from disobedience and sins, because disobedience is the cause of Allah's Anger. The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihe wa-sallam) said: Verily Allah has a sense of Ghayrah (honor, prestige and anger over it's violation), and Allah's sense of Ghayrah is provoked when a person does that which Allah has made prohibited. [Saheeh Bukharee and Saheeh Muslim] Whereas, obedience and abstaining from all those things, which Allah has prohibited, is a form of worship and a means to achieve Allah's Love.

Hasten to make Sincere Tawbah (Repentance) to Allah because repentance means coming back to Allah. It is forgoing all those deed, which Allah dislikes in open and in secret, out of regret for what has passed, abandoning them immediately and being determined not to return to it again. When a Muslim combines repentance with good deeds during the most virtuous days, this is a sign of his success. Allah says: But as for him who repented, believed and did righteous deeds, then he will be among those who are successful. [Soorah al-Qasas (28): 67]

Give Charity

Attend Salaat al-Eid and the Khutbah.

Slaughter Udhiyah (Sacrifice) on the day of Eid al-Adha is another good deed which brings the slave closer to his Lord.

There is much to be gained, so make the most of this these invaluable and irreplaceable days.

Tuesday, November 17, 2009

Righteous Daughter

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:

There is no obedience to any created being if it involves disobedience towards the Creator.

[Narrated by al-Bukhaaree, 4340; Muslim, 1840; Ahmad, 1098.]

Righteousness is Good Character



Description: Clinging to righteousness and avoiding sin is not just about worshipping One God without partner through conventional rituals. It goes far beyond that to one’s moral and mannerly behavior, taking heed of one’s conscience, and seeking with one’s heart.

Righteousness defined by revelation and reason.

An-Nawwas bin Sam’aan reported that Prophet Muhammad said: “Righteousness is good character, and sin is whatever bothers you and you do not want people to know.” (Saheeh Muslim)

An-Nawwas bin Sam’aan is a famous companion of Prophet Muhammad. He belonged to the Arab tribe of Kallaab and settled in Syria after the death of the Prophet. His report is collected by a scholar of hadeeth named Muslim bin Hajjaj, who was born in 817 CE in the city of Naishapur, in north-eastern Iran, and died there at the age of 58, in 875 CE.

Muslim began studying the science of Prophetic hadeeth at the age of 15 and traveled to Iraq, Hijaz (Western Saudi Arabia), Syria, and Egypt to study under great hadeeth masters like al-Bukhari, Ahmad ibn Hanbal, and others.

He compiled a book containing some 9,200 hadeeths which is known as Saheeh Muslim. Muslim scholars consider it to be the most authentic compilation of Prophetic hadeeths after Saheeh al-Bukhari.

This narration is important in that it sheds light on some of the more subtle aspects of righteousness and sin, helping to define them both. Since Islam gives so much importance to the belief in and worship of One God, one may incorrectly think that this alone is enough to be righteous.

This hadeeth, however, shows that one of the main consequences of correct and true belief is good character, and that it is an intrinsic aspect of the meaning of righteousness. It emphasizes some of the meanings found in the saying of God which mentions that righteousness, as well as a being a combination of correct belief and prescribed worship, is also proper conduct in human relations:

“Righteousness is not that you turn your faces to the east and the west [in prayer].

But righteous is the one who believes in God, the Last Day, the Angels, the Scripture and the Prophets; who gives his wealth in spite of love for it to kinsfolk, orphans, the poor, the wayfarer, to those who ask and to set slaves free.

And (righteous are) those who pray, pay alms, honor their agreements, and are patient in (times of) poverty, ailment and during conflict. Such are the people of truth. And they are the God-Fearing.” (Quran 2:177)

Rather than being an end in itself, one of the main purposes of worship is to bring about traits beneficial to the self and society. God says about the salah (prayer):

“Surely, the salah prevents lewd acts and bad deeds…” (Quran 29:45)

Hence one can say without any qualms that Islam as a whole came to perfect good manners, as did the Prophet himself:

“Indeed I was only sent to complete the most noble character traits.” (Saheeh Muslim)

As Islam is not a mere religion but a complete way of life, incorporating all of its various facets and aspects, good manners is actually regarded as a means of worship by which one may achieve the same reward of doing other more obvious voluntary acts of worship. The Prophet, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, stated:

“Through his manners and good conduct, the believer can attain the status of a person who frequently fasts and prays at night.” (Abu Dawud)

Rather, the Prophet even stated it to be one of the best forms of worship, second to none but the obligatory mandates of Islam:

“On the Day of Resurrection, nothing will be heavier in the scale (of good deeds) of the believer than good conduct. God hates the one who swears and hurls obscenities.” (Abu Dawud, Al-Tirmidhi)

Through maintaining good conduct, one becomes one of the beloved servants of God. The Prophet said:

“The most beloved slaves of God to God are those who have the best manners.” (Al-Hakim)

When one realizes the importance of good character and its essentiality in defining righteousness, an aspect which is the goal of Islam, this exhorts Muslims to fulfill this aspect of faith as well, since one can not become “righteous” through mere belief and devotion to God in themselves without good character.

But what is regarded as good character?

We find that the Quran and Sunnah in various texts define it to be any trait that is beneficial to humans, both to oneself as well as to others, at the same time not being generally or specifically prohibited by Islam.

For example, God says:

“Those who suppress their anger, and forgive other people – assuredly, God loves those who do good.” (Quran 3:134)

Righteousness is dealing fairly, justly and politely with one’s family. The Prophet said:

“The believers with the most perfect faith are those with the most perfect conduct and manners. And the best ones amongst you are those who are best to their families.” (Al-Tirmidhi)

Truthfulness is an essential aspect of good character which leads to Paradise. The Prophet said:

“Indeed truthfulness is righteousness, and indeed righteousness leads to Paradise.” (Saheeh Muslim)

These are but a few examples of the numerous texts which define and exhort Muslims to excel in their character and manner. Although righteousness is those deeds which are naturally pleasing to the conscience of humans, religion plays a vital role in defining what it is. For example, anything of which its harm is greater than its good cannot be defined as righteousness, even if it may be otherwise regarded as goodness and righteousness. The Prophet said:

“It is not righteousness that you fast during travel.” (Saheeh Al-Bukhari)

Although fasting is one of the most meritorious of deeds, here it is not considered righteousness due to the harm it may incur to the individual and his comrades during a journey. Also, to steal from the rich in order to give to the poor may not be regarded as righteousness, as stealing has been specifically prohibited in the religion.

At the same time, a deed which may sometimes be seen as harsh may also be considered good character at times, such as striking a child at certain age as a means of education.

The Prophet said: “Command your children to pray when they are seven, and strike them [if they do not] when they are ten…” (Abu Dawud)

For this reason, we look to divine guidance in order to define for us good manners and character, exemplified by the Prophet, as God said:

Surely, you (O Muhammad) are upon a high standard of moral character.” (Quran 68:4)

God also said: “Indeed in the Messenger of God you have a beautiful example of conduct to follow…” (Quran 33:21)

Aisha, the wife of the noble Prophet, was asked about his character. She replied: “His character was that of the Quran.” (Saheeh Muslim, Abu Dawud)

In the second part of this narration, the Prophet mentioned another subtle aspect of sin, which is that sin is anything which bothers a righteous person’s conscience and which a person seeks to hide from others. An array of actions comes into a person’s mind once they hear these words. God has inspired within each soul the ability, although limited, to recognize truth from falsehood.

“He inspired it (the soul) to know its sin and its piety.” (Quran 91:8)

As long as a person seeks righteousness, they will know when they have done something wrong through their conscience, even though they might find numerous ways to excuse themselves for what they are doing. They would never like anyone to come to know of that thing, for they are ashamed of it; their religion is enriched with shyness, shame and bashfulness.

The Prophet said: “Shame and bashfulness is from the perfection of faith.” (Saheeh Al-Bukhari)

Shame is something which can prevent a person from committing evil.

The Prophet said: “If you have no shame, then do as you please.” (Saheeh Al-Bukhari)

Shame, the highest level being shameful in front of God from committing sins, is a key factor is avoiding sin, and this standard may also be used to judge whether or not an act is a sin. These sentiments of conscience and shame are a natural consequence to true belief and faith, and this is what the religion of Islam seeks to create within an individual, an Islamic conscience which guides humans through their lives. This inner conscience is what tells the state of the heart of the individual, whether it is alive seeking the truth, or dead, filled with the desires of this worldly life.

Lack of religiosity and indulging in sin caused a person to lose one’s conscience, and it can no longer be used as a source of guidance. “…why then did they not believe with humility?

But their hearts became hardened, and Satan made fair seeming to them that which they used to do.” (Quran 6:43)

“Have they not traversed through the land, and have they heart with which they perceive, or ears with which they hear? Indeed it is not the sight which is blinded, but rather what is blinded is the hearts which are in the breasts.” (Quran 22:46)

The heart can be used as a guide, in conjunction with the intellect and revelation, in order to ease the search for the truth. The heart of one who is searching for the truth is indeed one which is alive, for it is this life and yearning which causes them to search for it. This type of person will never find peace at heart in any other religion except the religion which God ordained for humanity, and as long as their yearning for the truth exists, their conscience will continue to bother them until they find the true religion of God.

Indeed if the person is sincere, God will guide them to the truth:

“And those who desire Guidance, He (God) will increase them in Guidance, and inspire them with [the way to] piety.” (Quran 47:17)