Friday, April 24, 2009
Friday, April 17, 2009
A House In Paradise...
The Prophet (صلي الله عليه وسلم) said: I guarantee a house in the surroundings [suburbs] of Paradise for a man who avoids quarrelling even if he were in the right,a house in the middle of Paradise for a man who avoids lying even if he were joking, and a house in the upper part of Paradise for a man who made his character good. [Abu Dawud, 41/4782]
Hijaab's So Beautiful...
Muslim women all over the world are wearing Hijab as a religious requirement and a sign of respect, not out of a misdirected sense of "tradition." It is both a sign of a women's obedience to Allah and a manifestation of her faith. The Hijab is part of a Muslim's religious identity. It gives women dignity and self-respect.
Islam commands women to cover their bodies so as not to trouble men who are weak and unable to resist temptation. In Islam, men and women are commanded to dress modestly and not appear "naked" in public, even in all male and female situations.
Just as a short skirt or a see-through dress can send the signal that the wearer is available to men, so the Hijab signals, loud and clear: "I am forbidden to you." Wearing the Hijab protects the female from harassment and men. It is the western women who are to be pitied for displaying their private self for all to see.
An American, Ruth Anderson, has said: "Hijab is not a sign of backwardness, ignorance or mental incompetence, but a woman's duty and her right."
A women in Hijab is like a jewel that is of high exceptional value and that which must be kept hidden. Wearing the Hijab is a choice that Muslim women make. To discard the Hijab or expose that part of her body ordered covered by the Divine Law is to disobey Islamic principles and a women's basic Islamic belief.
References:
Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran, Chapter 33, Verse 59: "O Prophet! Tell your wives and daughters, and the believing women, that they should cast their outer garments over their persons; that is better, that they should be known (as such) and not be molested." And in Chapter 24, Verse 31: "And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what appear thereof; that they should draw their scarves over their bosoms - "
Islam commands women to cover their bodies so as not to trouble men who are weak and unable to resist temptation. In Islam, men and women are commanded to dress modestly and not appear "naked" in public, even in all male and female situations.
Just as a short skirt or a see-through dress can send the signal that the wearer is available to men, so the Hijab signals, loud and clear: "I am forbidden to you." Wearing the Hijab protects the female from harassment and men. It is the western women who are to be pitied for displaying their private self for all to see.
An American, Ruth Anderson, has said: "Hijab is not a sign of backwardness, ignorance or mental incompetence, but a woman's duty and her right."
A women in Hijab is like a jewel that is of high exceptional value and that which must be kept hidden. Wearing the Hijab is a choice that Muslim women make. To discard the Hijab or expose that part of her body ordered covered by the Divine Law is to disobey Islamic principles and a women's basic Islamic belief.
References:
Almighty Allah says in the Holy Quran, Chapter 33, Verse 59: "O Prophet! Tell your wives and daughters, and the believing women, that they should cast their outer garments over their persons; that is better, that they should be known (as such) and not be molested." And in Chapter 24, Verse 31: "And say to the believing women that they should lower their gaze and guard their modesty; that they should not display their beauty and ornaments except what appear thereof; that they should draw their scarves over their bosoms - "
Sunday, March 29, 2009
Guidance Parts I & II
GUIDANCE PART-I
IN THE NAME OF ALLAH, THE MOST GRACIOUS, THE MOST MERCIFUL.
“GUIDANCE FROM QUR’AN IN THE LIGHT OF QUR’AN AND HADITHS”
HADITHS:
Sahih Bukhari:
Volume 1, Book 3, Number 73:
Narrated 'Abdullah bin Mas'ud:
The Prophet said, "Do not wish to be like anyone except in two cases. (The first is) A person, whom Allah has given wealth and he spends it righteously; (the second is) the one whom Allah has given wisdom (the Holy Qur'an) and he acts according to it and teaches it to others." (Fateh-al-Bari page 177 Vol. 1)
Volume 2, Book 23, Number 422:
Narrated Anas:
The Prophet said, "When a human being is laid in his grave and his companions return and he even hears their foot steps, two angels come to him and make him sit and ask him: What did you use to say about this man, Muhammad ? He will say: I testify that he is Allah's slave and His Apostle. Then it will be said to him, 'Look at your place in the Hell-Fire. Allah has given you a place in Paradise instead of it.' " The Prophet added, "The dead person will see both his places. But a non-believer or a hypocrite will say to the angels, 'I do not know, but I used to say what the people used to say! It will be said to him, 'Neither did you know nor did you take the guidance (by reciting the Quran).' Then he will be hit with an iron hammer between his two ears, and he will cry and that cry will be heard by whatever approaches him except human beings and jinns."
*From the above-mentioned hadith it is very clear the importance of Qur’an! We should not ignore the Qur’an. After death there is no World again! Only paradise/hell!
Volume 8, Book 73, Number 120:
Narrated Tariq:
'Abdullah said, "The best talk is Allah's Book (Qur'an), and the best guidance is the guidance of Muhammad."
Volume 1, Book 3, Number 75:
Narrated Ibn 'Abbas:
Once the Prophet embraced me and said, "O Allah! Bestow on him the knowledge of the Book (Qur'an)."
Volume 5, Book 57, Number 100:
Narrated Ibn Abbas:
Once the Prophet embraced me (pressed me to his chest) and said, "O Allah, teach him wisdom (i.e. the understanding of the knowledge of Qur'an)."
Conclusion:
“From the above mentioned hadiths, it is very clear that the holy Qur’an should be referred to first before referring to hadiths. We often see or meet people who have more knowledge of hadiths compared to knowledge about the Qur’an. We should change this attitude Inshallah.
54:17. And We have indeed made the Qur'an easy to understand and remember: then is there any that will receive admonition [warning]?
*From the above-mentioned verse of Qur’an it is clear dear all! Where are you standing and where are you going???
Beware of misleading websites & people… if we have knowledge from the Qur’an. Inshallah we will be guided.
GUIDANCE PART-II
HOLY QUR’AN:
17: 9. Surely this Quran guides to that which is most upright and gives good news to the believers who do good that they shall have a great reward.
*From the above verse it is very clear the Qur’an shows the correct way!
2:256. There is no compulsion in religion; truly the right [guided] way has become clearly distinct from error; therefore, whoever disbelieves in the Shaitan and believes in Allah he indeed has laid hold on the firmest handle, which shall not break off, and Allah is Hearing, Knowing.
*From the above verse it is very clear! We can only be rightly guided if we refer to the Qur’an.
2: 2. This Book, there is no doubt in it, is a GUIDE to those who guard (against evil).
2: 3. Those who believe in the unseen and keep up prayer and spend out of what We [ALLAH] have given them.
2: 4. And who believe in that which has been revealed to you and that which was revealed before you and they are sure of the hereafter.
2: 5. These are on a right course from their Lord and these it is that shall be successful.
2: 6. Surely those who disbelieve, it being alike to them whether you warn them, or do not warn them, will not believe.
2: 7. Allah has set a seal upon their hearts and upon their hearing and there is a covering over their eyes, and there is a great punishment for them.
2: 8. And there are some people who say: We believe in Allah and the last day; and they are not at all believers. [Or they are not mu’min]
2: 9. They desire to deceive Allah and those who believe, and they deceive only themselves and they do not perceive.
2:185. The month of Ramadhan is that in which the Qur’an was revealed, guidance to All mankind and clear proofs of the guidance and the distinction; therefore whoever of you is present in the month, he shall fast therein…
*From the above verse again Allah (swt) is calling to [All human being] NOT ANY SUNNI, SHIA, JEWS, MUSLIMS, ETC. If you have the BOOK which shows you the guided path, so it is our duty to search and find out what are our weakness.
29:51. Is it not enough for them that We have revealed to you the Book which is recited to them? Most surely there is mercy in this and a reminder for a people who believe.
*From the above verse we should follow the same message as in sunnah [Muhammad pbuh].
39:18. Those who listen to the word, then follow the best of it; those are they whom Allah has guided, and those it is who are the men of understanding.
10:57. O mankind! there hath come to you a direction from your Lord and a healing for the (diseases) in your hearts, and for those who believe, a guidance and a Mercy.
*Qur’an provides healing for the heart.
2:242. Allah thus makes clear to you His communications [verses] that you may understand.
IN THE NAME OF ALLAH, THE MOST GRACIOUS, THE MOST MERCIFUL.
“GUIDANCE FROM QUR’AN IN THE LIGHT OF QUR’AN AND HADITHS”
HADITHS:
Sahih Bukhari:
Volume 1, Book 3, Number 73:
Narrated 'Abdullah bin Mas'ud:
The Prophet said, "Do not wish to be like anyone except in two cases. (The first is) A person, whom Allah has given wealth and he spends it righteously; (the second is) the one whom Allah has given wisdom (the Holy Qur'an) and he acts according to it and teaches it to others." (Fateh-al-Bari page 177 Vol. 1)
Volume 2, Book 23, Number 422:
Narrated Anas:
The Prophet said, "When a human being is laid in his grave and his companions return and he even hears their foot steps, two angels come to him and make him sit and ask him: What did you use to say about this man, Muhammad ? He will say: I testify that he is Allah's slave and His Apostle. Then it will be said to him, 'Look at your place in the Hell-Fire. Allah has given you a place in Paradise instead of it.' " The Prophet added, "The dead person will see both his places. But a non-believer or a hypocrite will say to the angels, 'I do not know, but I used to say what the people used to say! It will be said to him, 'Neither did you know nor did you take the guidance (by reciting the Quran).' Then he will be hit with an iron hammer between his two ears, and he will cry and that cry will be heard by whatever approaches him except human beings and jinns."
*From the above-mentioned hadith it is very clear the importance of Qur’an! We should not ignore the Qur’an. After death there is no World again! Only paradise/hell!
Volume 8, Book 73, Number 120:
Narrated Tariq:
'Abdullah said, "The best talk is Allah's Book (Qur'an), and the best guidance is the guidance of Muhammad."
Volume 1, Book 3, Number 75:
Narrated Ibn 'Abbas:
Once the Prophet embraced me and said, "O Allah! Bestow on him the knowledge of the Book (Qur'an)."
Volume 5, Book 57, Number 100:
Narrated Ibn Abbas:
Once the Prophet embraced me (pressed me to his chest) and said, "O Allah, teach him wisdom (i.e. the understanding of the knowledge of Qur'an)."
Conclusion:
“From the above mentioned hadiths, it is very clear that the holy Qur’an should be referred to first before referring to hadiths. We often see or meet people who have more knowledge of hadiths compared to knowledge about the Qur’an. We should change this attitude Inshallah.
54:17. And We have indeed made the Qur'an easy to understand and remember: then is there any that will receive admonition [warning]?
*From the above-mentioned verse of Qur’an it is clear dear all! Where are you standing and where are you going???
Beware of misleading websites & people… if we have knowledge from the Qur’an. Inshallah we will be guided.
GUIDANCE PART-II
HOLY QUR’AN:
17: 9. Surely this Quran guides to that which is most upright and gives good news to the believers who do good that they shall have a great reward.
*From the above verse it is very clear the Qur’an shows the correct way!
2:256. There is no compulsion in religion; truly the right [guided] way has become clearly distinct from error; therefore, whoever disbelieves in the Shaitan and believes in Allah he indeed has laid hold on the firmest handle, which shall not break off, and Allah is Hearing, Knowing.
*From the above verse it is very clear! We can only be rightly guided if we refer to the Qur’an.
2: 2. This Book, there is no doubt in it, is a GUIDE to those who guard (against evil).
2: 3. Those who believe in the unseen and keep up prayer and spend out of what We [ALLAH] have given them.
2: 4. And who believe in that which has been revealed to you and that which was revealed before you and they are sure of the hereafter.
2: 5. These are on a right course from their Lord and these it is that shall be successful.
2: 6. Surely those who disbelieve, it being alike to them whether you warn them, or do not warn them, will not believe.
2: 7. Allah has set a seal upon their hearts and upon their hearing and there is a covering over their eyes, and there is a great punishment for them.
2: 8. And there are some people who say: We believe in Allah and the last day; and they are not at all believers. [Or they are not mu’min]
2: 9. They desire to deceive Allah and those who believe, and they deceive only themselves and they do not perceive.
2:185. The month of Ramadhan is that in which the Qur’an was revealed, guidance to All mankind and clear proofs of the guidance and the distinction; therefore whoever of you is present in the month, he shall fast therein…
*From the above verse again Allah (swt) is calling to [All human being] NOT ANY SUNNI, SHIA, JEWS, MUSLIMS, ETC. If you have the BOOK which shows you the guided path, so it is our duty to search and find out what are our weakness.
29:51. Is it not enough for them that We have revealed to you the Book which is recited to them? Most surely there is mercy in this and a reminder for a people who believe.
*From the above verse we should follow the same message as in sunnah [Muhammad pbuh].
39:18. Those who listen to the word, then follow the best of it; those are they whom Allah has guided, and those it is who are the men of understanding.
10:57. O mankind! there hath come to you a direction from your Lord and a healing for the (diseases) in your hearts, and for those who believe, a guidance and a Mercy.
*Qur’an provides healing for the heart.
2:242. Allah thus makes clear to you His communications [verses] that you may understand.
Tuesday, March 24, 2009
My Disappearance...
Assalam 'aleykum,
I know some people out there must be wondering where in the world I disappeared to. Been really busy lately & since the last time I posted, I didn't have any internet connection. So there you go...
Inshallah will start posting again soon. Keep tuned ;)
I know some people out there must be wondering where in the world I disappeared to. Been really busy lately & since the last time I posted, I didn't have any internet connection. So there you go...
Inshallah will start posting again soon. Keep tuned ;)
Friday, February 6, 2009
Caravan Of Hope - Visit Palestinian Refugee Camps In Syria & Jordan
Wake up and do something for your Palestinian brothers and sisters who are suffering, be pro-active and extend a much needed helping hand.
Join a small group of British Muslim brothers & sisters on an 8-10 day visit to Palestinian Refugee camps within Syria and Jordan.
Visit Baqaa & Wihdat Palestinian Refugee camps managed by UNRWA, and see for yourselves the appalling conditions families live under. Spend time mentoring Palestinian children. Give them a smile, encouragement, hope, and inspiration from the Sunnah.
This visit is a platform to assess how we can practically help the Refugee camps with future projects InshaAllah. The intention is to establish a monthly programme where Muslims with teaching skills/mentoring abilities can spend time (3-7 days a year) with Palestinian children.
Please collect donations from friends/family community and give 100% of that amount out yourselves by hand rather than relying on UK/US banks who at times freeze charitable aid instantly without notice (Interpal a classic example). It is not always a pre-requisite to go through monolithic aid agencies to give Sadaqah. As our Prophet pbuh advised us, when you have a good intention fulfill it immediately before something overcomes you.
Provisional Dates for 2 separate Groups: 4-13th February & 14-22nd February
All inclusive around £595. Return Flights £300, Visa processing/Hotels/Transport/Guides all included for £175. £125 going directly in aid to Baqaa & Wihdat Camps per person who travels.
Also you will have the opportunity to visit Damascus Ummayad Masjid and Yarmouk on the way to Amman.
Please contact
Emad : islamic-tours@hotmail.com 07979 807 369 or
Bilal : bilal@muslimoutreach.org.uk 07984 100 580
www.islamic-tours.com
Join a small group of British Muslim brothers & sisters on an 8-10 day visit to Palestinian Refugee camps within Syria and Jordan.
Visit Baqaa & Wihdat Palestinian Refugee camps managed by UNRWA, and see for yourselves the appalling conditions families live under. Spend time mentoring Palestinian children. Give them a smile, encouragement, hope, and inspiration from the Sunnah.
This visit is a platform to assess how we can practically help the Refugee camps with future projects InshaAllah. The intention is to establish a monthly programme where Muslims with teaching skills/mentoring abilities can spend time (3-7 days a year) with Palestinian children.
Please collect donations from friends/family community and give 100% of that amount out yourselves by hand rather than relying on UK/US banks who at times freeze charitable aid instantly without notice (Interpal a classic example). It is not always a pre-requisite to go through monolithic aid agencies to give Sadaqah. As our Prophet pbuh advised us, when you have a good intention fulfill it immediately before something overcomes you.
Provisional Dates for 2 separate Groups: 4-13th February & 14-22nd February
All inclusive around £595. Return Flights £300, Visa processing/Hotels/Transport/Guides all included for £175. £125 going directly in aid to Baqaa & Wihdat Camps per person who travels.
Also you will have the opportunity to visit Damascus Ummayad Masjid and Yarmouk on the way to Amman.
Please contact
Emad : islamic-tours@hotmail.com 07979 807 369 or
Bilal : bilal@muslimoutreach.org.uk 07984 100 580
www.islamic-tours.com
Sunday, January 18, 2009
HalfDate Recycle Drive Jan 2009
Allah’s Messenger (peace and prayers be upon him) said: “Removing a litter from the road is charity.” - Sahih Al Jamea
DateDrive of Muharram 1430/Jan 2009Type of DateDrive: Non-monetary
What: Benefiting Muslims organizations by recycling unwanted your mobile phone, ink cartridge, etc. while saving the environment from toxic waste!
DateDrive Goals: Have 20 masjids/schools as collecting points
Collection Points:
So far, the following fine organizations are participating in the collection, may Allah reward them. (See comment section for their address and contact, if you don’t find the address, post your question as a comment)
1. Bait Salaam, Atlanta, GA
2. Maidah, Atlanta Food Consortium, GA
3. Ella Johnnaber, Pine Lake, GA
4. AlMaun Fund, NJ
5. Muslim Community Bloomington, IN
6. AlMadinah school, Los Angeles, CA
7. North Hollywood Islamic center, CA
8. Girl Scout, Raleigh, NC
9. Millennium Pharmacy, Brooklyn, NY
10. Life Maker at Foundation for Islamic Education, PA
11. Life Maker at Devon Mosque, PA
12. The Bridge @ Baabun Nasr, PA (address in the comment section)
13. George Mason University MSA working with the Mustafa Center, VA
14. AlHuda Masjid, Worcester, MA
15. ME Masjid (details coming soon)
16. Youth Muslim Fortress @ Masjid Ar-Rahman, Bloomington, MN
17. BuildingBlocks @ Masjid Dar Al-Farooq, Bloomington, MN
18. BuildingBlocks @ Islamic University, Robbinsdale, MN
19. Masjid As Sabr, Portland, OR
20. Masjid Bilal, Portland, OR
21. Masjid Beaverton, OR
22. Halal Market in Tigard, Portland, OR
What’s in it for you: Rewards from Allah, in-sha-Allah for benefiting women shelter and needy Muslims with recycling income. Also, you are protecting the environment and cleaning your house :)
Also, HalfDate is giving away Amazon gift certificates.
$57 if you can collect the most number of items (according to Baitul Salaam evaluation)
$57 if you can get the most number of people in your community to participate (how can we tell? Ask them to post a comment with the masjid/school name)
$57 if you can get your local media/newspaper to cover your recycling collection with HalfDate
Deadline: Jan, 31, 2009
Action Required:
* If you are outside the US, simply send the link of this drive to your friends
http://halfdate.com/2009/01/01/recycle-drive/
To give an equal opportunity for HalfDaters outside the US to participate, we will accept their donations to cover part of the costs of the drive. Notice your donation will help promoting HalfDate in various communities, so we can do more in the future, in-sha-Allah.
Sunday, December 28, 2008
Israeli Air Strikes In Gaza Strip Kill 200!!
Nearly 200 Palestinians have been killed and hundreds injured after the Israeli air force launched dozens of air raids on the Gaza Strip.
At least 30 missiles were fired by F-16 fighter bombers. The first round of airstrikes came just before noon, followed by several more waves of missiles, killing dozens and leaving many buried under the rubble. About 60 warplanes took part in the first wave of air strikes.
They were the heaviest Israeli attacks on Gaza for decades. More air raids were launched as night fell.
About 700 others were wounded, as missiles struck security compounds and other bases, said officials.
Residents spoke of children heading to and from school at the time of the attacks.
Palestinians staged demonstrations in the West Bank cities of Ramallah and Hebron, and there were some scuffles with Israeli troops there.
Egypt opened its border crossing to the Gaza Strip at Rafah to absorb and treat some of those injured in the south of the territory.
You can make a difference - Please help us help the Palestinians
https://www.interpal.org.uk/donate/donate.aspx
===========
Hadith - Sahih al-Bukhari 3.624, Narrated Anas, r.a.
Allah's Apostle said, "Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or he is an oppressed one." People asked, "O Allah's Apostle! It is all right to help him if he is oppressed, but how should we help him if he is an oppressor?" The Prophet said, "By preventing him from oppressing others''.
At least 30 missiles were fired by F-16 fighter bombers. The first round of airstrikes came just before noon, followed by several more waves of missiles, killing dozens and leaving many buried under the rubble. About 60 warplanes took part in the first wave of air strikes.
They were the heaviest Israeli attacks on Gaza for decades. More air raids were launched as night fell.
About 700 others were wounded, as missiles struck security compounds and other bases, said officials.
Residents spoke of children heading to and from school at the time of the attacks.
Palestinians staged demonstrations in the West Bank cities of Ramallah and Hebron, and there were some scuffles with Israeli troops there.
Egypt opened its border crossing to the Gaza Strip at Rafah to absorb and treat some of those injured in the south of the territory.
You can make a difference - Please help us help the Palestinians
https://www.interpal.org.uk/donate/donate.aspx
===========
Hadith - Sahih al-Bukhari 3.624, Narrated Anas, r.a.
Allah's Apostle said, "Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or he is an oppressed one." People asked, "O Allah's Apostle! It is all right to help him if he is oppressed, but how should we help him if he is an oppressor?" The Prophet said, "By preventing him from oppressing others''.
Monday, December 22, 2008
“Fear Allah Wherever You Are”
Abû Dharr al-Ghifârî and Mu`âdh b, Jabal relate that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Fear Allah wherever you are. Follow up a bad deed with a good deed and it will blot it out. And deal with people in a good manner.” [ Sunan al-Tirmidhî ]
The importance of this hadith:
Ibn Rajab says: “This is powerful advice, bringing together the rights of Allah and the rights of His servants.”
The fear of Allah
The Arabic word for the “fear of Allah” is taqwâ . It comes from the root word meaning “to protect from something, to prevent”. Indeed, a person exhibits the fear of Allah by seeking to prevent Allah's punishment by carrying out what Allah has commanded of him and abstaining from what Allah has prohibited him.
Allah had called upon all people in every era to fear Him. Allah says: “And We had enjoined upon those who were given the Scripture before – as well as yourselves – to fear Allah.” [ Sûrah al-Nisâ' : 131]
It is Allah's right over His servants that they fear Him as He ought to be feared. Allah says: “O you who believe! Fear Allah as He ought to be feared and do not die except as believers.” [ Sûrah Âl `Imrân : 102]
Ibn Mas`ûd explained what it means to fear Allah as He ought to be feared by saying: “It means that He is to be obeyed not disobeyed, remembered not forgotten, and shown gratitude not ingratitude.”
The fear of Allah is the path to forgiveness, salvation, and the attainment of Allah's mercy. Allah says:
“Indeed, Allah is with those who fear Him and those who do good.” [ Sûrah al-Nahl : 128]
“And My mercy encompasses all things, and I shall decree it for those who fear Me.” [ Sûrah al-A`râf : 156]
“He is worthy of being feared and worthy of granting forgiveness.” [ Sûrah al-Muddaththir : 56]
“And whoever fears Allah – He will pardon him his sins and grant him a great reward.” [ Sûrah al-Talâq : 5]
“Indeed, those who fear Allah will be among gardens and rivers, in a seat of truth near an All-Powerful Sovereign.” [ Sûrah al-Qamar : 54-55]
Allah promises those who fear Him that He will provide for their needs and grant them a way out of their worldly difficulties. Allah says: “And whoever fears Allah, He will make for him a way out, and provide for him from whence he could never imagine.” [ Sûrah al-Talâq : 2-3]
This is Allah's promise. We should draw strength from it when we are tried in life with difficulties that tempt us to resort to what Allah has forbidden.
The relationship between knowledge and the fear of Allah
Allah says: “It is only those who have knowledge among Allah's servants who fear Him.” [ Sûrah Fâtir : 28]
There are two ways in which knowledge and the fear of Allah are related. The first is that true fear of Allah comes about as the result of having proper knowledge of Allah and His perfect attributes.
Ibn `Abbâs said about this verse: “They are those who know that Allah is capable of all things.”
He also said: “The verse means: The only people who fear me are those who know my power, my might, and my dominion.”
Ibn Kathîr says in his commentary of this verse: “The only people who fear Allah in the true sense are those who are knowledgeable about Allah. This is because the more knowledge a person has about the Almighty, the All-Powerful and All-Knowing, who possesses the attributes of perfection and the best of names – the more perfect and complete this knowledge is – the greater and more total his fear of Allah will be.” [ Tafsîr Ibn Kathîr ]
The second way that the fear of Allah and knowledge are related stems from the fact that the fear of Allah is to seek to prevent Allah's punishment by carrying out Allah's commands and abstaining from His prohibitions. Consequently, a Muslim needs to have knowledge of these matters in order to fear Allah properly. An ignorant Muslim may have a sense of fear, but he will not be able to fully carry out what that fear requires of him.
Ibn `Abbâs said: “To have knowledge of the Most Merciful is to be someone who associates nothing as a partner with Him, who deems lawful what He has made lawful, who prohibits what He has prohibited, who preserves what He has enjoined upon him, and who has certainty that he shall meet Him and that his actions will be accounted for.”
Follow up a bad deed with a good deed
The Prophet (peace be upon him) tells us that the performing a good deed wipes away the sin incurred from perpetrating an evil one. Scholars have disagreed whether the “good deed” being referred to here refers specifically to the context of repentance or whether it is general for all good works.
The strongest view is that all good deeds can wipe away evil deeds. Allah says: “And establish prayer at the two ends of the day and at the approach of the night. Indeed, good works do away with evil deeds. That is a reminder for those who take heed.” [ Sûrah Hûd : 114]
A man once came to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and informed him that he had contact with a woman like a husband has with his wife, except that he did not go so far as to fornicate with her. This man had just prayed the Fajr prayer. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Have you prayed with us the Fajr prayer?” When he replied that he had, the Prophet (peace be upon him) recited: “Indeed, good works do away with evil deeds.” [ Sahîh al-Bukhârî (526) and Sahîh Muslim (2763)]
However, a believer should always repent for his sins. Allah says: “And those, who when they commit an indecency or wrong themselves, remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins – and who forgives sins except Allah – and then do not knowingly persist in what they have done, for them is forgiveness from their Lord and gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they shall abide forever. How great is the reward for those who work righteousness.” [ Sûrah Âl `Imrân : 135]
A believer should follow up his sincere repentance with the performance of good works. This is what Allah wants from us. He says: “Indeed, I am Most Forgiving to whomever repents, believes, and works righteous deeds and then continues upon guidance.” [ Sûrah TâHâ : 82]
Allah also tells us: “Except for those who repent, believe, and work righteous deeds. For those, Allah will change their evil deeds into good deeds, and Allah is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.” [ Sûrah al-Furqân : 70]
This is especially true for major sins. A Muslim must never leave a major sin to go without repentance, for Allah's promise of forgiveness is for those who turn to Him in sincere repentance. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “A servant, if he acknowledges his sin and then repents, Allah will forgive him.” [ Sahîh al-Bukhârî (4141) and Sahîh Muslim (2770)]
And deal with people in a good manner
Allah tells us repeatedly in the Qur'ân to observe good manners in our dealings with others. He says: “Keep to forgiveness (O Muhammad), and enjoin kindness, and turn away from those who are ignorant.” [ Sûrah al-A`râf : 199]
Allah says: “Nor can goodness and evil be equal. Repel (evil) with what is better. Then he between whom and you there had been hatred will become as though he were your dear friend.” [ Sûrah Fussilat : 34]
The Prophet (peace be upon him) is the perfect example of what it means to possess good manners. Allah says, describing him: “Indeed you are of a great moral character.” [ Sûrah al-Qalam : 4]
The Prophet (peace be upon him) emphasized how good manners are of paramount importance in Islam when he said: “I was sent only to perfect good manners.” [ Musnad Ahmad (8952)]
Indeed, he tells us that good manners are part of faith. He said: “The believers with the most complete faith are those who have the best manners.” [ Sunan al-Tirmidhî (1162) and Sunan Abî Dâwûd (4682)]
Among the good manners that we should cultivate is to be sensible in our dealings with others and not to react hastily when they do that which displeases us. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said to Ashajj `Abd Qays: “You possess within yourself two qualities that Allah loves: discernment and forbearance.” [ Sahîh Muslim (17)]
The importance of this hadith:
Ibn Rajab says: “This is powerful advice, bringing together the rights of Allah and the rights of His servants.”
The fear of Allah
The Arabic word for the “fear of Allah” is taqwâ . It comes from the root word meaning “to protect from something, to prevent”. Indeed, a person exhibits the fear of Allah by seeking to prevent Allah's punishment by carrying out what Allah has commanded of him and abstaining from what Allah has prohibited him.
Allah had called upon all people in every era to fear Him. Allah says: “And We had enjoined upon those who were given the Scripture before – as well as yourselves – to fear Allah.” [ Sûrah al-Nisâ' : 131]
It is Allah's right over His servants that they fear Him as He ought to be feared. Allah says: “O you who believe! Fear Allah as He ought to be feared and do not die except as believers.” [ Sûrah Âl `Imrân : 102]
Ibn Mas`ûd explained what it means to fear Allah as He ought to be feared by saying: “It means that He is to be obeyed not disobeyed, remembered not forgotten, and shown gratitude not ingratitude.”
The fear of Allah is the path to forgiveness, salvation, and the attainment of Allah's mercy. Allah says:
“Indeed, Allah is with those who fear Him and those who do good.” [ Sûrah al-Nahl : 128]
“And My mercy encompasses all things, and I shall decree it for those who fear Me.” [ Sûrah al-A`râf : 156]
“He is worthy of being feared and worthy of granting forgiveness.” [ Sûrah al-Muddaththir : 56]
“And whoever fears Allah – He will pardon him his sins and grant him a great reward.” [ Sûrah al-Talâq : 5]
“Indeed, those who fear Allah will be among gardens and rivers, in a seat of truth near an All-Powerful Sovereign.” [ Sûrah al-Qamar : 54-55]
Allah promises those who fear Him that He will provide for their needs and grant them a way out of their worldly difficulties. Allah says: “And whoever fears Allah, He will make for him a way out, and provide for him from whence he could never imagine.” [ Sûrah al-Talâq : 2-3]
This is Allah's promise. We should draw strength from it when we are tried in life with difficulties that tempt us to resort to what Allah has forbidden.
The relationship between knowledge and the fear of Allah
Allah says: “It is only those who have knowledge among Allah's servants who fear Him.” [ Sûrah Fâtir : 28]
There are two ways in which knowledge and the fear of Allah are related. The first is that true fear of Allah comes about as the result of having proper knowledge of Allah and His perfect attributes.
Ibn `Abbâs said about this verse: “They are those who know that Allah is capable of all things.”
He also said: “The verse means: The only people who fear me are those who know my power, my might, and my dominion.”
Ibn Kathîr says in his commentary of this verse: “The only people who fear Allah in the true sense are those who are knowledgeable about Allah. This is because the more knowledge a person has about the Almighty, the All-Powerful and All-Knowing, who possesses the attributes of perfection and the best of names – the more perfect and complete this knowledge is – the greater and more total his fear of Allah will be.” [ Tafsîr Ibn Kathîr ]
The second way that the fear of Allah and knowledge are related stems from the fact that the fear of Allah is to seek to prevent Allah's punishment by carrying out Allah's commands and abstaining from His prohibitions. Consequently, a Muslim needs to have knowledge of these matters in order to fear Allah properly. An ignorant Muslim may have a sense of fear, but he will not be able to fully carry out what that fear requires of him.
Ibn `Abbâs said: “To have knowledge of the Most Merciful is to be someone who associates nothing as a partner with Him, who deems lawful what He has made lawful, who prohibits what He has prohibited, who preserves what He has enjoined upon him, and who has certainty that he shall meet Him and that his actions will be accounted for.”
Follow up a bad deed with a good deed
The Prophet (peace be upon him) tells us that the performing a good deed wipes away the sin incurred from perpetrating an evil one. Scholars have disagreed whether the “good deed” being referred to here refers specifically to the context of repentance or whether it is general for all good works.
The strongest view is that all good deeds can wipe away evil deeds. Allah says: “And establish prayer at the two ends of the day and at the approach of the night. Indeed, good works do away with evil deeds. That is a reminder for those who take heed.” [ Sûrah Hûd : 114]
A man once came to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and informed him that he had contact with a woman like a husband has with his wife, except that he did not go so far as to fornicate with her. This man had just prayed the Fajr prayer. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Have you prayed with us the Fajr prayer?” When he replied that he had, the Prophet (peace be upon him) recited: “Indeed, good works do away with evil deeds.” [ Sahîh al-Bukhârî (526) and Sahîh Muslim (2763)]
However, a believer should always repent for his sins. Allah says: “And those, who when they commit an indecency or wrong themselves, remember Allah and seek forgiveness for their sins – and who forgives sins except Allah – and then do not knowingly persist in what they have done, for them is forgiveness from their Lord and gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they shall abide forever. How great is the reward for those who work righteousness.” [ Sûrah Âl `Imrân : 135]
A believer should follow up his sincere repentance with the performance of good works. This is what Allah wants from us. He says: “Indeed, I am Most Forgiving to whomever repents, believes, and works righteous deeds and then continues upon guidance.” [ Sûrah TâHâ : 82]
Allah also tells us: “Except for those who repent, believe, and work righteous deeds. For those, Allah will change their evil deeds into good deeds, and Allah is Most Forgiving, Most Merciful.” [ Sûrah al-Furqân : 70]
This is especially true for major sins. A Muslim must never leave a major sin to go without repentance, for Allah's promise of forgiveness is for those who turn to Him in sincere repentance. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “A servant, if he acknowledges his sin and then repents, Allah will forgive him.” [ Sahîh al-Bukhârî (4141) and Sahîh Muslim (2770)]
And deal with people in a good manner
Allah tells us repeatedly in the Qur'ân to observe good manners in our dealings with others. He says: “Keep to forgiveness (O Muhammad), and enjoin kindness, and turn away from those who are ignorant.” [ Sûrah al-A`râf : 199]
Allah says: “Nor can goodness and evil be equal. Repel (evil) with what is better. Then he between whom and you there had been hatred will become as though he were your dear friend.” [ Sûrah Fussilat : 34]
The Prophet (peace be upon him) is the perfect example of what it means to possess good manners. Allah says, describing him: “Indeed you are of a great moral character.” [ Sûrah al-Qalam : 4]
The Prophet (peace be upon him) emphasized how good manners are of paramount importance in Islam when he said: “I was sent only to perfect good manners.” [ Musnad Ahmad (8952)]
Indeed, he tells us that good manners are part of faith. He said: “The believers with the most complete faith are those who have the best manners.” [ Sunan al-Tirmidhî (1162) and Sunan Abî Dâwûd (4682)]
Among the good manners that we should cultivate is to be sensible in our dealings with others and not to react hastily when they do that which displeases us. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said to Ashajj `Abd Qays: “You possess within yourself two qualities that Allah loves: discernment and forbearance.” [ Sahîh Muslim (17)]
Wednesday, December 10, 2008
Al-Wahn, A Deadly Disease
On the authority of Thawbaan , the Prophet said:
"The People will soon summon one another to attack you as people when eating invite others to share their food." Someone asked, "Will that be because of our small numbers at that time?" He replied, "No, you will be numerous at that time: but you will be froth and scum like that carried down by a torrent (of water), and Allah will take the fear of you from the breasts (hearts) of your enemy and cast al-wahn into your hearts." Someone asked, "O Messenger of Allah, what is al-wahn?" He replied, "Love of the world and dislike of death."
[An authentic hadith recorded by Abu Dawud and Ahmad]
In attempting to contemplate on the meaning of the Prophet's words in the above hadith (and indeed on any of his noble sayings), one quickly comes to appreciate the Prophet's statement: "I have been given words which are concise, but comprehensive in meaning" [Bukhaari and Muslim]. The Messenger was blessed with the profound ability to utter several words which whole volumes could then be written about.
In this striking hadith, the Prophet describes the situation of the Muslims with great accuracy, and also prescribes a remedy for the ailment.
"The People will soon summon one another to attack you as people when eating invite others to share their food."
What is extraordinary in this hadith, is that the Prophet conjures up vivid images in the listener's mind about the scenario. Here, the Ummah (the Muslim nation) is first likened to some seemingly tasty food surrounded by a group of hungry diners. But these people need to share, and thus, the food must be divided into portions corresponding to the status of each 'guest'.
Shortly after the fall of the Khilafah (Caliphate), the Muslim world was divided into many different states by the European powers, with each of them eying the rich resources that Allah has blessed the Muslims with.
Colonization and corruption shortly followed in those lands, and the seeds of tyrannical, despot regimes were planted. Now, with the Ummah divided and each government primarily concerned with its own interests, the enemies of Islam are free to attack each region like wild animals attack their prey - Palestine, Iraq, Chechnya and now Afghanistan.
Someone asked, "Will that be because of our small numbers at that time?" He replied, "No, you will be numerous at that time..."
This is yet more evidence that in Islam, numbers are of little significance. The Muslims were victorious: at the Battle of Badr, where the disbelievers outnumbered the Muslims three to one. They were also victorious at Yarmuk, where the Romans outnumbered the Muslims seventy to one. The current situation is quite the opposite. The Muslim population is more than a billion and is rapidly growing. Yet, these phenomenal numbers are of little consequence when the masses of the population are essentially slaves to the West, herded mindlessly like cattle according to the whims of their masters.
"...but you will be froth and scum like that carried down by a torrent (of water)"
Here is another image! This extraordinary description carries heavy meaning beneath its exterior if one considers the characteristics of the "froth and scum".
Firstly, the froth overlies the water beneath, suggesting a sense of pride and self-confidence. Secondly, the froth is almost weightless and with little substance, such that the slightest breeze can destroy it. Thus, the pride and self-confidence is ill founded and in reality, should not exist. It is only a product of self-delusion. Thirdly, the foam and scum is not in control of its path - that is, the role of the water flowing beneath. All it does is happily flow along to its destination while intoxicated with its imaginary position.
"...and Allah will take the fear of you from the breasts (hearts) of your enemy and cast al-wahn into your hearts."
There were days when the forces of the Muslims were dreaded by all those who opposed them, when people from all over the world would travel to to the lands of the Muslims to receive education, and when Arabic was the language of success. These days are all but gone. Muslims and Islam are generally looked down upon. Why? The Prophet said it is because of Wahn. Technically, it means a dull lifelessness and enervation. However, the Prophet explains what this word really means:
Someone asked, "O Messenger of Allah, what is al-wahn?" He replied, "Love of the world and dislike of death."
Thus, the problem and the solution have been identified. After the bombardment from capitalist and socialist ideologies, the Muslim world became too materialistic, desperately pursuing the rewards and pleasures of this world, with little remembrance of the Hereafter. The Prophet said (in another hadith): "Keep much in remembrance of death, which is the destroyer of pleasure." [Tirmidhi]
Allah said: "Say: 'Short is the enjoyment of this world. And the Hereafter is the best for those who do right. And you will never be dealt with unjustly in the very least. Wherever you are, death will find you out, even if you are in towers built up strong and high." [An-Nisaa, 4:77-78]
Imam Ahmad records from Abu Dardaa as saying: "If only you knew what you will certainly see upn your death, you would never eat again a single bite out of a craving appetite, and you would never again drink an extra sip of water for the pleasure of unquenchable and insatiable thirst."
Once Muslims realise that the death is not the end, but the beginning, thereafter with ultimate justice and either excruciating torment or blissful reward, our situation will surely change.
Until then, Allah says: "Verily, Allah will never change the condition of a people until they change what is within themselves." [Ar-Ra'd, 13:11]
www.reminderofdeath.com
"The People will soon summon one another to attack you as people when eating invite others to share their food." Someone asked, "Will that be because of our small numbers at that time?" He replied, "No, you will be numerous at that time: but you will be froth and scum like that carried down by a torrent (of water), and Allah will take the fear of you from the breasts (hearts) of your enemy and cast al-wahn into your hearts." Someone asked, "O Messenger of Allah, what is al-wahn?" He replied, "Love of the world and dislike of death."
[An authentic hadith recorded by Abu Dawud and Ahmad]
In attempting to contemplate on the meaning of the Prophet's words in the above hadith (and indeed on any of his noble sayings), one quickly comes to appreciate the Prophet's statement: "I have been given words which are concise, but comprehensive in meaning" [Bukhaari and Muslim]. The Messenger was blessed with the profound ability to utter several words which whole volumes could then be written about.
In this striking hadith, the Prophet describes the situation of the Muslims with great accuracy, and also prescribes a remedy for the ailment.
"The People will soon summon one another to attack you as people when eating invite others to share their food."
What is extraordinary in this hadith, is that the Prophet conjures up vivid images in the listener's mind about the scenario. Here, the Ummah (the Muslim nation) is first likened to some seemingly tasty food surrounded by a group of hungry diners. But these people need to share, and thus, the food must be divided into portions corresponding to the status of each 'guest'.
Shortly after the fall of the Khilafah (Caliphate), the Muslim world was divided into many different states by the European powers, with each of them eying the rich resources that Allah has blessed the Muslims with.
Colonization and corruption shortly followed in those lands, and the seeds of tyrannical, despot regimes were planted. Now, with the Ummah divided and each government primarily concerned with its own interests, the enemies of Islam are free to attack each region like wild animals attack their prey - Palestine, Iraq, Chechnya and now Afghanistan.
Someone asked, "Will that be because of our small numbers at that time?" He replied, "No, you will be numerous at that time..."
This is yet more evidence that in Islam, numbers are of little significance. The Muslims were victorious: at the Battle of Badr, where the disbelievers outnumbered the Muslims three to one. They were also victorious at Yarmuk, where the Romans outnumbered the Muslims seventy to one. The current situation is quite the opposite. The Muslim population is more than a billion and is rapidly growing. Yet, these phenomenal numbers are of little consequence when the masses of the population are essentially slaves to the West, herded mindlessly like cattle according to the whims of their masters.
"...but you will be froth and scum like that carried down by a torrent (of water)"
Here is another image! This extraordinary description carries heavy meaning beneath its exterior if one considers the characteristics of the "froth and scum".
Firstly, the froth overlies the water beneath, suggesting a sense of pride and self-confidence. Secondly, the froth is almost weightless and with little substance, such that the slightest breeze can destroy it. Thus, the pride and self-confidence is ill founded and in reality, should not exist. It is only a product of self-delusion. Thirdly, the foam and scum is not in control of its path - that is, the role of the water flowing beneath. All it does is happily flow along to its destination while intoxicated with its imaginary position.
"...and Allah will take the fear of you from the breasts (hearts) of your enemy and cast al-wahn into your hearts."
There were days when the forces of the Muslims were dreaded by all those who opposed them, when people from all over the world would travel to to the lands of the Muslims to receive education, and when Arabic was the language of success. These days are all but gone. Muslims and Islam are generally looked down upon. Why? The Prophet said it is because of Wahn. Technically, it means a dull lifelessness and enervation. However, the Prophet explains what this word really means:
Someone asked, "O Messenger of Allah, what is al-wahn?" He replied, "Love of the world and dislike of death."
Thus, the problem and the solution have been identified. After the bombardment from capitalist and socialist ideologies, the Muslim world became too materialistic, desperately pursuing the rewards and pleasures of this world, with little remembrance of the Hereafter. The Prophet said (in another hadith): "Keep much in remembrance of death, which is the destroyer of pleasure." [Tirmidhi]
Allah said: "Say: 'Short is the enjoyment of this world. And the Hereafter is the best for those who do right. And you will never be dealt with unjustly in the very least. Wherever you are, death will find you out, even if you are in towers built up strong and high." [An-Nisaa, 4:77-78]
Imam Ahmad records from Abu Dardaa as saying: "If only you knew what you will certainly see upn your death, you would never eat again a single bite out of a craving appetite, and you would never again drink an extra sip of water for the pleasure of unquenchable and insatiable thirst."
Once Muslims realise that the death is not the end, but the beginning, thereafter with ultimate justice and either excruciating torment or blissful reward, our situation will surely change.
Until then, Allah says: "Verily, Allah will never change the condition of a people until they change what is within themselves." [Ar-Ra'd, 13:11]
www.reminderofdeath.com
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