Saturday, September 1, 2012
love the akhira and let the dunya
A boy said to his father: “I saw a girl and I want to marry her. She is so beautiful and she has gorgeous eyes. The father answered his son: of course son, let’s ask for her hand in marriage.” When the father saw the girl, he admired her beauty and he told his son: “You don’t deserve this girl, she needs someone who has experience in life and she can depend on, someone like me.” The boy was surprised by the attitude of his father and he told him: “She will marry me, not you”. They started to fight and finally they decided both to go to the police station to solve their problem. When they tell their story to the police officer, he told them: “bring the girl so we can ask her about her opinion about this.” When the officer saw the beauty of the girl he said to the boy and his father: “you both don’t deserve her, she needs someone who has prestige like me.” The three men started a fight and decided to go to the minister to solve their problem. When the minister saw the girl, he said: “She deserves to be married with a minister like me”. The prince heard about their problem and calls them all to help them solve it but and when he saw the girl he said: “This girl will marry me”. All the five men started to fight. Finally, the girl said “I have the solution! I will start to run and whoever catches me first, he will be my husband”. When she started to run, the boy, his father, the police officer, the minister and the prince started to run to catch her. Suddenly the 5 men fell into a deep hole. Moral ♥ : The girl looked to them from the top and she said “do you know who I am?” I am the Dunya - THE LIFE!! People want to run to catch me, they are racing to have me. By doing that, they forget their religion, until they end up in their grave and still won’t have me
Wednesday, August 15, 2012
The art of giving advice
Abdullah was an energetic person but lacking in certain skills. One day, he left his home to pray Dhuhr in the mosque. It was his zeal for the prayer and respect for his religion which brought him out to pray. He was walking fast in order to reach the mosque before the Iqamah was given. On his way, he passed by a date-palm tree on top of which there was a man in uniform, working on the tree. Abdullah became surprised and thought, “Who is this man that does not care about the prayer! It is as if he didn’even hear the Adhan, or doesn’t care about the Iqamah, which is about to go!”
He shouted in anger, “Get down and pray!”
The man responded coldly, “OK, OK…”
He said, again, “Hurry up and pray, you donkey!”
The man screamed, “You called me a donkey?!” He then took a branch of the tree and descended in order to hit him over the head with it! Abdullah hid his face with his headscarf so the man wouldn’t recognize him and went on to the mosque. The man descended from the tree in anger, went to his house, prayed and rested for a while. He then returned to the tree to finish his job.
Intentions behind giving advice:
Many times when Allah has blessed us with knowledge and wisdom in certain areas we begin to see errors in our brothers and sisters. We know that it is an integral part of our religion to promote the good and forbid evil, but it is important for us to purify our intentions before we do so.
Remember, when advising our fellow Muslim brother or sister we are doing it to benefit them and not to satisfy our ego. We do it because we don’t want to see them go down the wrong path. The Prophet Muhammad (S) said: None of you truly believe until you want for your brother what you want for yourself [Bukhari and Muslim]. And until we don’t adopt this attitude we won’t be able to have any impact on the people we seek to help.
How to give advice:
The Prophet Muhammad (S) once said: When any one of you sees anything that is disapproved (of by Allah), let him change it with his hand. If he is not able to do so, then let him change it with his tongue. And if he is not able to do so, then let him change it with his heart, though that is the weakest (kind of) faith [Muslim].
Now how should one give advice?
1) Take the person to a corner or somewhere private.
2) Tell them how what they are doing is harmful to their hereafter and how it is hurting others.
3) Make dua for them and tell them that you are there to help them correct their error.
The next time you find your friends doing drugs, watching pornography, dating, do it with these two things in mind. You are correcting them so they can better themselves and that you have to be subtle and do it with wisdom. so you don’t push them away from the straight path any further[Ig1] .
Asr time came and Abdullah went to the mosque again. On his way he passed by the same tree and noticed the same man working. He decided to change his method altogether and said, “Assalamualaikum! How are you?”
The man replied, “Alhumdulillah, I am fine!”
Abdullah asked, “Give me some good news. How are the dates this year?”
The man said, “Alhumdulillah.”
Abdullah said, “May Allah give you success and provision, make your life easy for you, and not deprive you of the reward for your work!”
The man was overjoyed at hearing this supplication and said ameen to the prayer.
Abdullah then said, “It seems that you are so preoccupied with work that perhaps you didn’t notice that Adhan for Asr prayer. The Adhan has been called and the Iqamah is about to be given. Perhaps you should get down, relax a little and get ready for prayer. After the prayer you can get on with your work again. May Allah keep you healthy.”
The man said, “InshaAllah… InshaAllah…” and began to descend gently.
He then turned to Abdullah, shook his hand warmly and said, “I would like to thank you for your excellent manners. As for the one who passed by me at Dhuhr time, I wish I could see him and show him who the real donkey is
He shouted in anger, “Get down and pray!”
The man responded coldly, “OK, OK…”
He said, again, “Hurry up and pray, you donkey!”
The man screamed, “You called me a donkey?!” He then took a branch of the tree and descended in order to hit him over the head with it! Abdullah hid his face with his headscarf so the man wouldn’t recognize him and went on to the mosque. The man descended from the tree in anger, went to his house, prayed and rested for a while. He then returned to the tree to finish his job.
Intentions behind giving advice:
Many times when Allah has blessed us with knowledge and wisdom in certain areas we begin to see errors in our brothers and sisters. We know that it is an integral part of our religion to promote the good and forbid evil, but it is important for us to purify our intentions before we do so.
Remember, when advising our fellow Muslim brother or sister we are doing it to benefit them and not to satisfy our ego. We do it because we don’t want to see them go down the wrong path. The Prophet Muhammad (S) said: None of you truly believe until you want for your brother what you want for yourself [Bukhari and Muslim]. And until we don’t adopt this attitude we won’t be able to have any impact on the people we seek to help.
How to give advice:
The Prophet Muhammad (S) once said: When any one of you sees anything that is disapproved (of by Allah), let him change it with his hand. If he is not able to do so, then let him change it with his tongue. And if he is not able to do so, then let him change it with his heart, though that is the weakest (kind of) faith [Muslim].
Now how should one give advice?
1) Take the person to a corner or somewhere private.
2) Tell them how what they are doing is harmful to their hereafter and how it is hurting others.
3) Make dua for them and tell them that you are there to help them correct their error.
The next time you find your friends doing drugs, watching pornography, dating, do it with these two things in mind. You are correcting them so they can better themselves and that you have to be subtle and do it with wisdom. so you don’t push them away from the straight path any further[Ig1] .
Asr time came and Abdullah went to the mosque again. On his way he passed by the same tree and noticed the same man working. He decided to change his method altogether and said, “Assalamualaikum! How are you?”
The man replied, “Alhumdulillah, I am fine!”
Abdullah asked, “Give me some good news. How are the dates this year?”
The man said, “Alhumdulillah.”
Abdullah said, “May Allah give you success and provision, make your life easy for you, and not deprive you of the reward for your work!”
The man was overjoyed at hearing this supplication and said ameen to the prayer.
Abdullah then said, “It seems that you are so preoccupied with work that perhaps you didn’t notice that Adhan for Asr prayer. The Adhan has been called and the Iqamah is about to be given. Perhaps you should get down, relax a little and get ready for prayer. After the prayer you can get on with your work again. May Allah keep you healthy.”
The man said, “InshaAllah… InshaAllah…” and began to descend gently.
He then turned to Abdullah, shook his hand warmly and said, “I would like to thank you for your excellent manners. As for the one who passed by me at Dhuhr time, I wish I could see him and show him who the real donkey is
Mistakes
Allah gives us the stories of many prophets in the Qur’an in order that we learn from their example and take lessons from their lives. A common point for many of them is that Allah put them in specific situations in order to prepare them for their tasks in the future. For example, Allah put Yusuf in the house of the Head of the Treasury, and he put Musa in the house of the Pharaoh, in order that they may have a deep understanding of what goes on so they could be leaders in the future. The prophet we will concentrate on is Dawood.
Once, when Dawood was in his place of worship and two men appeared in front of him, and asked him to judge a matter between them. One of them said that they had one sheep, and the other had 99 sheep, and the other took his one sheep away from him. Dawood immediately said that he should be given his sheep back. As soon as he made his ruling, they both disappeared. Right then, he knew that he made a mistake. He should have listened to both sides before making a ruling. Allah then told him that he made him a successor on earth, and the scholars say that Dawood was better after the mistake than before the mistake. And this, my brothers and sisters, is how we should be with our mistakes.
The Prophet (S) said that every son of Adam makes mistakes. Every single human being makes mistakes, without exception. So how do we deal with them? When you make a mistake in worldly matters, the process is simple. Recognize that you have messed up, and work to change the situation. It is never the end of the world; you always have a chance to go back and fix what needs to be fixed. So you failed your first test of the semester. Is that it? Is the next step to drop out of school? Just take a step back and see what went wrong, You went to bed too late the day before the test, you have not been attending class like you should, or you do not pay attention in class. Whatever the case may be, there is always a chance to correct any errors and move on.
So what if you make a mistake pertaining to the hereafter (also known as a sin)? The Prophet (S) said that every Son of Adam makes mistakes and the best of those who make mistakes are those who constantly repent. So this is the key to fixing a sin. Acknowledge that you did it, repent, and take the steps ensure that you do not repeat it again. And do you know what Allah does for you when you repent? Allah says that those who repent, and believe, and do good deeds, Allah will change their bad deeds into good ones. So you sinned, you committed a sin and you know it was sin. But when you repent to Allah, He will take it from the bad deed pile and put it with the good deeds. So that pile of dirt you had in your pocket is now pure gold. It does not get any better than this.
Now what if other people make a mistake? Unfortunately, when many people want to correct someone, they use the harshest tone possible. Ask yourself, do you think anyone will want to change if you correct them in a harsh manner? THAT’S HARAM!!! ASTAGHFIRULLAH!!! Really? The Prophet (S) said that Allah is kind, and he loves kindness in all matters. He also said, make things easy on people, and do not make things difficult. Many of us who are ‘practicing’ Islam, we were not always this way. It was not one day that you woke up and all of a sudden you were praying five times a day, reading Qur’an, and all these other things. It did not happen automatically for you, so do not expect this from other people. It took you some time to change, and Allah was clement, he gave you a chance to change, so give other people a chance. It took you some time to change, so give other people time to change as well. If you really want to correct someone, do so politely, and then tell them the correct thing to do.
Then what if you are not sure someone else has made a mistake? In this case, we should always try to make excuses for our brother. For example, a brother has not shown up for a few days for Fajr prayer. Maybe he got sick. Maybe he broke his leg. Maybe his alarm has been broken. Maybe another Muslim parked in his driveway. We all know how much Muslims just love to park in other people’s driveways. We should not concentrate on others *possible* mistakes as much as we should be concentrating on our own mistakes.
So in dealing with our mistakes, first, we should admit the mistake. If there is no mistake then there is no point in continuing the conversation. If it pertains to this world, make note of what went wrong and how you can change it so the same thing does not happen again. As the saying goes, fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me. So if you are falling into the same mistake over and over again, you are actually getting worse. If you committed sin, always remember that it is never too late to repent to Allah. Whatever sin you have done in the past, know that Allah will forgive it if you are sincere in your repentance.
If you find someone else that has made a mistake, be kind to them, and do not be harsh, because most likely you were once in the same position at some point. If you are not even sure someone else has made a mistake, try to find an excuse for them, and you will find that many times they actually did have an excuse.
We ask Allah to help us learn from our mistakes and cause them to be a source of growth for us
Once, when Dawood was in his place of worship and two men appeared in front of him, and asked him to judge a matter between them. One of them said that they had one sheep, and the other had 99 sheep, and the other took his one sheep away from him. Dawood immediately said that he should be given his sheep back. As soon as he made his ruling, they both disappeared. Right then, he knew that he made a mistake. He should have listened to both sides before making a ruling. Allah then told him that he made him a successor on earth, and the scholars say that Dawood was better after the mistake than before the mistake. And this, my brothers and sisters, is how we should be with our mistakes.
The Prophet (S) said that every son of Adam makes mistakes. Every single human being makes mistakes, without exception. So how do we deal with them? When you make a mistake in worldly matters, the process is simple. Recognize that you have messed up, and work to change the situation. It is never the end of the world; you always have a chance to go back and fix what needs to be fixed. So you failed your first test of the semester. Is that it? Is the next step to drop out of school? Just take a step back and see what went wrong, You went to bed too late the day before the test, you have not been attending class like you should, or you do not pay attention in class. Whatever the case may be, there is always a chance to correct any errors and move on.
So what if you make a mistake pertaining to the hereafter (also known as a sin)? The Prophet (S) said that every Son of Adam makes mistakes and the best of those who make mistakes are those who constantly repent. So this is the key to fixing a sin. Acknowledge that you did it, repent, and take the steps ensure that you do not repeat it again. And do you know what Allah does for you when you repent? Allah says that those who repent, and believe, and do good deeds, Allah will change their bad deeds into good ones. So you sinned, you committed a sin and you know it was sin. But when you repent to Allah, He will take it from the bad deed pile and put it with the good deeds. So that pile of dirt you had in your pocket is now pure gold. It does not get any better than this.
Now what if other people make a mistake? Unfortunately, when many people want to correct someone, they use the harshest tone possible. Ask yourself, do you think anyone will want to change if you correct them in a harsh manner? THAT’S HARAM!!! ASTAGHFIRULLAH!!! Really? The Prophet (S) said that Allah is kind, and he loves kindness in all matters. He also said, make things easy on people, and do not make things difficult. Many of us who are ‘practicing’ Islam, we were not always this way. It was not one day that you woke up and all of a sudden you were praying five times a day, reading Qur’an, and all these other things. It did not happen automatically for you, so do not expect this from other people. It took you some time to change, and Allah was clement, he gave you a chance to change, so give other people a chance. It took you some time to change, so give other people time to change as well. If you really want to correct someone, do so politely, and then tell them the correct thing to do.
Then what if you are not sure someone else has made a mistake? In this case, we should always try to make excuses for our brother. For example, a brother has not shown up for a few days for Fajr prayer. Maybe he got sick. Maybe he broke his leg. Maybe his alarm has been broken. Maybe another Muslim parked in his driveway. We all know how much Muslims just love to park in other people’s driveways. We should not concentrate on others *possible* mistakes as much as we should be concentrating on our own mistakes.
So in dealing with our mistakes, first, we should admit the mistake. If there is no mistake then there is no point in continuing the conversation. If it pertains to this world, make note of what went wrong and how you can change it so the same thing does not happen again. As the saying goes, fool me once, shame on you; fool me twice, shame on me. So if you are falling into the same mistake over and over again, you are actually getting worse. If you committed sin, always remember that it is never too late to repent to Allah. Whatever sin you have done in the past, know that Allah will forgive it if you are sincere in your repentance.
If you find someone else that has made a mistake, be kind to them, and do not be harsh, because most likely you were once in the same position at some point. If you are not even sure someone else has made a mistake, try to find an excuse for them, and you will find that many times they actually did have an excuse.
We ask Allah to help us learn from our mistakes and cause them to be a source of growth for us
Take advantage of 5 things before 5 things
I want you to imagine stepping out of a really tough exam. Your brain is fried from the hours of studying prior to the exam and all you think about is relaxing. You take a deep breath, exhale, and say “Alhumdulillah”. Brothers and Sisters, my khutbah today will be about reflecting on moments such as these and taking advantage of the many blessings Allah has given us.
The Prophet Muhammad (S) was blessed with jawaami’ ul kalim (the most concise, or precise, speech). Meaning he only had to say a little on order to convey a huge message. I will be analyzing just one saying of the Prophet (S) to demonstrate the ocean of wisdom our Messenger’s words carried.
ibn Abbas (R) reported that the Prophet Muhammad SAWS said to a man while he was advising him:
“Take advantage of five matters before five other matters: your youth, before you become old; and your health, before you fall sick; and your richness, before you become poor; and your free time before you become busy; and your life, before your death.”
Let us venture into this hadith one advantage at a time.
Body:
#1: Take Advantage of Your Youth before Your Old Age
-Youthfulness is a time when a person is the most energetic and willing to take on the challeges of life. Channel this enthusiasm to please Allah SW through acts of worship, acquiring knowledge, being modest, respecting elders (especially parents), etc
-The enthusiasm and energy that you have been blessed with will never again be given to you after this age. Therefore, Hasten to please your Lord!
-After youth one loses this vitality and will not be able to achieve the things they once did due to physical/mental disabilites.
-Allah loves the youth who keeps himself busy with worship and is amazed at him because in general it is the youth who stray from the path of the worship of Allah SW.
#2: Take Advantage of Your Health, Before You Fall Sick.
-Health is one of the greatest blessings Allah has bestowed upon us. Ponder on how difficult life becomes when a person contracts a measley cold virus.
-There will come a time when we WILL fall sick. Some of those times the sicknesses will be more severe, and for certain people even more severe.
-Do not become disillusioned by the health Allah has blessed you with. Rather, take advantage of it by (again) committing acts that please Allah before it is taken away.
-Ponder on the example of those who are blind, deaf, mentally disabled, etc. and thank Allah for all he has given you.
-Make it a goal to at least complete the obligatory actions which require a healthy body such as salah five times a day, fasting in Ramadan, and going for the Hajj. Of course, the more that one does, the better it is for him.
#3: Take Advantage of Your Richness Before Poverty
-Contemplate on the world situation today. Where beggars become millionaires and millionaires become beggars. One day we might not have anything, and the next we might have much more than we need.
-Islam implores us to invest in the dunya (attaining good education, maintaining a job, providing for the family, etc) but not to become engrossed in it. Rather, one should be more worried about investing in the akhirah (hereafter).
-Always remind yourself that the wealth we have attained is due to the will of Allah and ponder over how true this is.
-Invest in your akhirah by donating you money for the sake of Allah to Islamic organizations, schools, civil services groups, etc.
#4: Take Advantage of Your Free Time Before You Become Busy
-Think about it. Think about how much free time all of us have been blessed with. What do we waste it on?
-Ponder about how much free time we used to have and ask your elders how much free time they have.
-How many of you wish you had more free time?
-Spending time wisely does not necessarily mean purely religious deeds (Quran, salah, fasting, etc.) But spending your time wisely learning something that can benefit you in this world and that can benefit other people as well.
#5: Take Advantage of Your Life Before Your Death
-This one phrase summarizes it all. We all have life. And we all WILL die.
-A whole khutbah can be spent on just the concept of death.
-Realize that death can come at anytime. When our time comes, there is nothing we can do. So take advantage of this life.
-Death does not discriminate. The Prophet, his companions, and those who disbelieved all have passed.
-Ponder on the example of those who die when
A story is told about a King in Africa who had a close friend that he grew up with. The friend had a habit of looking at every situation that ever occurred in his life (positive or negative) by saying
“Alhamdulillah” (All praise is due to Allah)
One day the King and his Friend were out on a hunting expedition. The Friend would load and prepare the guns for the King. The Friend had apparently done something wrong in preparing one of the guns, for after taking the gun from his Friend, the King fired it and his thumb was blown off.
Examining the situation the Friend remarked as usual,
“Alhamdulillah” (All praise is due to Allah)
To which the King replied, “No, this is NOT good!” and ordered his soldiers to put his Friend into jail.
A few months later, the King was hunting in an area that he should have known to stay clear of. A native tribe captured the King and took him to their village. They tied him up and brought him to their altar, for sacrifice to their gods.
The tribe shaman came to inspect the body, he noticed that the King was missing a thumb. The shaman was in an uproar. He said the sacrifice must be perfect, the gods will be furious with us if we submitted one who is imperfect. They quickly untied him and chased him away in fear that he would bring bad luck.
When the King reached his Palace, he was reminded of the event that had taken his thumb and felt remorse for his treatment of his Friend. He went immediately to the jail to speak with his Friend.
“You were right” the King said. “it was good that my thumb was blown off.” And he proceeded to tell all that just happened. “I am very sorry for sending you to jail for so long. It was bad for me to do this.”
His Friend replied “Alhamdulillah” (All praise is due to Allah)
“What do you mean, “Alhamdulillah!”(All praise is due to Allah) How could you be grateful that I sent my Friend to jail for a few months?”
The King’s friend replied: “Remember that the Almighty knows best and if I had NOT been in jail, I would have been with you(on this hunting trip).” [Book of Inspirations Vol. 1].
Brothers and sisters, whatever happens in our life is part of Allah’s plan. Rather than whining and complain we should continuously thank Allah for the countless blessings he has given us and show our gratitude by taking advantage of those blessings by doing acts which please him. Allah says in the Holy Quran, But you may hate a thing although it is good for you, and may love a thing although it is evil for you. Allah knows, and you do not. [Baqarah:216]
So once again, “Take advantage of five matters before five others: your youth, before your old age; and your health before you fall sick; and your wealth before you become poor; and your free time before you become busy; and your life before your death.”
Hasten to please Allah SW through acts of worship. Do not forget that all of the acts a believer does can be transformed into acts of worship if he does them for the sake of Allah SW. May Allah guide us all
The Prophet Muhammad (S) was blessed with jawaami’ ul kalim (the most concise, or precise, speech). Meaning he only had to say a little on order to convey a huge message. I will be analyzing just one saying of the Prophet (S) to demonstrate the ocean of wisdom our Messenger’s words carried.
ibn Abbas (R) reported that the Prophet Muhammad SAWS said to a man while he was advising him:
“Take advantage of five matters before five other matters: your youth, before you become old; and your health, before you fall sick; and your richness, before you become poor; and your free time before you become busy; and your life, before your death.”
Let us venture into this hadith one advantage at a time.
Body:
#1: Take Advantage of Your Youth before Your Old Age
-Youthfulness is a time when a person is the most energetic and willing to take on the challeges of life. Channel this enthusiasm to please Allah SW through acts of worship, acquiring knowledge, being modest, respecting elders (especially parents), etc
-The enthusiasm and energy that you have been blessed with will never again be given to you after this age. Therefore, Hasten to please your Lord!
-After youth one loses this vitality and will not be able to achieve the things they once did due to physical/mental disabilites.
-Allah loves the youth who keeps himself busy with worship and is amazed at him because in general it is the youth who stray from the path of the worship of Allah SW.
#2: Take Advantage of Your Health, Before You Fall Sick.
-Health is one of the greatest blessings Allah has bestowed upon us. Ponder on how difficult life becomes when a person contracts a measley cold virus.
-There will come a time when we WILL fall sick. Some of those times the sicknesses will be more severe, and for certain people even more severe.
-Do not become disillusioned by the health Allah has blessed you with. Rather, take advantage of it by (again) committing acts that please Allah before it is taken away.
-Ponder on the example of those who are blind, deaf, mentally disabled, etc. and thank Allah for all he has given you.
-Make it a goal to at least complete the obligatory actions which require a healthy body such as salah five times a day, fasting in Ramadan, and going for the Hajj. Of course, the more that one does, the better it is for him.
#3: Take Advantage of Your Richness Before Poverty
-Contemplate on the world situation today. Where beggars become millionaires and millionaires become beggars. One day we might not have anything, and the next we might have much more than we need.
-Islam implores us to invest in the dunya (attaining good education, maintaining a job, providing for the family, etc) but not to become engrossed in it. Rather, one should be more worried about investing in the akhirah (hereafter).
-Always remind yourself that the wealth we have attained is due to the will of Allah and ponder over how true this is.
-Invest in your akhirah by donating you money for the sake of Allah to Islamic organizations, schools, civil services groups, etc.
#4: Take Advantage of Your Free Time Before You Become Busy
-Think about it. Think about how much free time all of us have been blessed with. What do we waste it on?
-Ponder about how much free time we used to have and ask your elders how much free time they have.
-How many of you wish you had more free time?
-Spending time wisely does not necessarily mean purely religious deeds (Quran, salah, fasting, etc.) But spending your time wisely learning something that can benefit you in this world and that can benefit other people as well.
#5: Take Advantage of Your Life Before Your Death
-This one phrase summarizes it all. We all have life. And we all WILL die.
-A whole khutbah can be spent on just the concept of death.
-Realize that death can come at anytime. When our time comes, there is nothing we can do. So take advantage of this life.
-Death does not discriminate. The Prophet, his companions, and those who disbelieved all have passed.
-Ponder on the example of those who die when
A story is told about a King in Africa who had a close friend that he grew up with. The friend had a habit of looking at every situation that ever occurred in his life (positive or negative) by saying
“Alhamdulillah” (All praise is due to Allah)
One day the King and his Friend were out on a hunting expedition. The Friend would load and prepare the guns for the King. The Friend had apparently done something wrong in preparing one of the guns, for after taking the gun from his Friend, the King fired it and his thumb was blown off.
Examining the situation the Friend remarked as usual,
“Alhamdulillah” (All praise is due to Allah)
To which the King replied, “No, this is NOT good!” and ordered his soldiers to put his Friend into jail.
A few months later, the King was hunting in an area that he should have known to stay clear of. A native tribe captured the King and took him to their village. They tied him up and brought him to their altar, for sacrifice to their gods.
The tribe shaman came to inspect the body, he noticed that the King was missing a thumb. The shaman was in an uproar. He said the sacrifice must be perfect, the gods will be furious with us if we submitted one who is imperfect. They quickly untied him and chased him away in fear that he would bring bad luck.
When the King reached his Palace, he was reminded of the event that had taken his thumb and felt remorse for his treatment of his Friend. He went immediately to the jail to speak with his Friend.
“You were right” the King said. “it was good that my thumb was blown off.” And he proceeded to tell all that just happened. “I am very sorry for sending you to jail for so long. It was bad for me to do this.”
His Friend replied “Alhamdulillah” (All praise is due to Allah)
“What do you mean, “Alhamdulillah!”(All praise is due to Allah) How could you be grateful that I sent my Friend to jail for a few months?”
The King’s friend replied: “Remember that the Almighty knows best and if I had NOT been in jail, I would have been with you(on this hunting trip).” [Book of Inspirations Vol. 1].
Brothers and sisters, whatever happens in our life is part of Allah’s plan. Rather than whining and complain we should continuously thank Allah for the countless blessings he has given us and show our gratitude by taking advantage of those blessings by doing acts which please him. Allah says in the Holy Quran, But you may hate a thing although it is good for you, and may love a thing although it is evil for you. Allah knows, and you do not. [Baqarah:216]
So once again, “Take advantage of five matters before five others: your youth, before your old age; and your health before you fall sick; and your wealth before you become poor; and your free time before you become busy; and your life before your death.”
Hasten to please Allah SW through acts of worship. Do not forget that all of the acts a believer does can be transformed into acts of worship if he does them for the sake of Allah SW. May Allah guide us all
Maut(death)
I want you guys to imagine hanging out with your friends on a Friday evening. The school week has been hectic, the work load at the office has been incredible, and now you just want to chill out with your friends and forget all your problems. Can you imagine talking about death at such a time? Why would anyone do that? Who would want to ruin a perfectly good evening? Brothers and Sisters, at every free moment we are blessed with we must remind ourselves that we have a scheduled appointment with our Creator.
The Certainty of Death
How many of you have witnessed the death of a loved one? How many have seen an old person die? A teenager? A baby? How many of you have met an immortal person? (Obviously nobody has). The fact of the matter is that death is the most certain thing in our lives. Every soul will taste death (Al Imran 3:185). Not only is death itself inescapable, but the place and the very day and hour of death have been forever fixed: No soul may die except with God’s permission at a predestined time. (Al Imran 3:145).
Now it is amazing to see how we can forget this ultimate reality once we have initially realized it. Though it is human nature, there are practical ways to prevent ourselves from forgetting.
Keep your tongue moist with the remembrance of Allah
Keep good company and let go or try to improve those who are set on doing nonsensical things.
Attend funeral prayers and visit graveyards.
The Reality of the Hereafter
For those who sat and listened to the Prophet Muhammad (S), the Hereafter became almost a living reality to the extent that they could almost visualize it with their own eyes. On some occasions, during the Prophet’s descriptions of the Hereafter, they observed him going forward as if to grasp something while on other occasions he would withdraw as if to save himself. When questioned about those unusual movements, the Prophet (S) explained that as he spoke, he saw the fruits of Jannah in front of him. He reached out wanting to seize some so that he could show them. He said that, had he done so, it would have provided enough food for the entire world in all times to come. Similarly, when he withdrew, he saw the Hell-fire in front of him and wanted to save himself from it. It was this and other similar experiences witnessed by the Companions which were responsible for reforming their lives so completely that all their morals, manners, activities, goals in life – indeed, their entire purpose of existence – was determined by their awareness of their meeting with Allah. [In the Early Hours]
Self Evaluation
Self Evaluation is a key part of remember our final destination. Umar ibn al-Khattab (R) once said, “Judge yourself before you are judged, evaluate yourself before you are evaluated and be ready for the greatest investigation.” Take small moments in your day (preferably after Salah) when you are alone to remind yourself that though school, work, family, and friends are important our ultimate goal in life is to prepare to meet Allah (SWT). Constantly seek his forgiveness and remember him with even simple phrases such as SubhanAllah, Alhumdulillah, and Allahu Akbar.
[end 1st khutbah]
Conclusion
Now go back to the scene depicted in the introduction. There is absolutely no crime in playing videogames or going out with your friends (do it in a permissible manner of course). However, I urge you to take every chance you have to remind yourself and your friends of that scheduled appointment with Allah. Simply share and Hadith or verse from the Qur’an and you will find your minds enlightened and your hearts softened.
Death is something healthy to think and talk about. Death is something that makes religion worth discussing. Think about it, has anyone in the history of man come back from the dead and revealed the truth? Death is something this IS going to happen to you. No human has ever been able to escape it. Death does not discriminate regardless of race, gender, or age. Go to graveyards and give yourself a wakeup call every now and then. You will find the graves of people who died in their 80s-90s and right next to them there is a person who died within 6 days after birth! It isn’t our job to find out when our scheduled appointment with our Lord is but what we have done to prepare for it.
I pray that Allah makes us of those who constantly remind each other of death and who encourage one another to all that is good
The Certainty of Death
How many of you have witnessed the death of a loved one? How many have seen an old person die? A teenager? A baby? How many of you have met an immortal person? (Obviously nobody has). The fact of the matter is that death is the most certain thing in our lives. Every soul will taste death (Al Imran 3:185). Not only is death itself inescapable, but the place and the very day and hour of death have been forever fixed: No soul may die except with God’s permission at a predestined time. (Al Imran 3:145).
Now it is amazing to see how we can forget this ultimate reality once we have initially realized it. Though it is human nature, there are practical ways to prevent ourselves from forgetting.
Keep your tongue moist with the remembrance of Allah
Keep good company and let go or try to improve those who are set on doing nonsensical things.
Attend funeral prayers and visit graveyards.
The Reality of the Hereafter
For those who sat and listened to the Prophet Muhammad (S), the Hereafter became almost a living reality to the extent that they could almost visualize it with their own eyes. On some occasions, during the Prophet’s descriptions of the Hereafter, they observed him going forward as if to grasp something while on other occasions he would withdraw as if to save himself. When questioned about those unusual movements, the Prophet (S) explained that as he spoke, he saw the fruits of Jannah in front of him. He reached out wanting to seize some so that he could show them. He said that, had he done so, it would have provided enough food for the entire world in all times to come. Similarly, when he withdrew, he saw the Hell-fire in front of him and wanted to save himself from it. It was this and other similar experiences witnessed by the Companions which were responsible for reforming their lives so completely that all their morals, manners, activities, goals in life – indeed, their entire purpose of existence – was determined by their awareness of their meeting with Allah. [In the Early Hours]
Self Evaluation
Self Evaluation is a key part of remember our final destination. Umar ibn al-Khattab (R) once said, “Judge yourself before you are judged, evaluate yourself before you are evaluated and be ready for the greatest investigation.” Take small moments in your day (preferably after Salah) when you are alone to remind yourself that though school, work, family, and friends are important our ultimate goal in life is to prepare to meet Allah (SWT). Constantly seek his forgiveness and remember him with even simple phrases such as SubhanAllah, Alhumdulillah, and Allahu Akbar.
[end 1st khutbah]
Conclusion
Now go back to the scene depicted in the introduction. There is absolutely no crime in playing videogames or going out with your friends (do it in a permissible manner of course). However, I urge you to take every chance you have to remind yourself and your friends of that scheduled appointment with Allah. Simply share and Hadith or verse from the Qur’an and you will find your minds enlightened and your hearts softened.
Death is something healthy to think and talk about. Death is something that makes religion worth discussing. Think about it, has anyone in the history of man come back from the dead and revealed the truth? Death is something this IS going to happen to you. No human has ever been able to escape it. Death does not discriminate regardless of race, gender, or age. Go to graveyards and give yourself a wakeup call every now and then. You will find the graves of people who died in their 80s-90s and right next to them there is a person who died within 6 days after birth! It isn’t our job to find out when our scheduled appointment with our Lord is but what we have done to prepare for it.
I pray that Allah makes us of those who constantly remind each other of death and who encourage one another to all that is good
Thursday, August 9, 2012
maximizing the last ten days of ramadan
10 Steps to Maximising the Last Ten Days of Ramadan
The last ten days of Ramadan are very precious indeed:
Allah's Messenger used to exert himself in devotion during the last ten nights to a greater extent than at any other time." (Muslim).
Hazrat Aishah (Ra) reported that during the last ten days of Ramadan; the Messenger of Allah would wake his wives up during the night and then remain apart from them (that is, being busy in acts of worship). (Bukhari)
Hazrat Aisha (Ra) reported that with the start of the last ten days of Ramadan, the Prophet (Saw) used to tighten his waist belt (i.e. work hard) and used to pray all the night, and used to keep his family awake for the prayers. (Bukhari)
So we need to tighten all of our belts especially in these last ten days and do as much as we can to thank Allah and worship him and ask him for forgiveness.
Here are some ways that we can all make the best of these precious last ten days of this most blessed month:
1. Make a timetable for oneself for the last ten days
One should make a timetable for oneself so that one can make the best of these last 10 precious days.
One can include the times that one will read the Qur’an and how much one will read like one juz (Chapter) or half a juz etc as well as certain Nafilprayers one will do throughout the day and night and any worship that one will do etc.
One should strive to make time the to worship on at least the last odd nights of the last ten days as these are the nights where it is said that it is most likely to be Laylat ul Qadr (The night of power).
Making a structured timetable may help one to better organise oneself especially in these precious days 10 days.
2. Spend the last 10 days in I’thikaaf
I`tikaf is the seclusion and staying in the Masjid with the intention of becoming closer to Allah by doing constant remembrance, glorification and worship of Allah Ta’aala.
One should perform as many Nafil prayers as possible and recite much of the Qur’an and its meanings, read books on Islam and keep ones lips moist with the constant glorification and remembrance of Allah ta’aala.
`Aishah radhiya Allahu `anha reported that the Prophet, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam, "Used to perform i'tikaf in the last ten days of Ramadan until Allah the Mighty and Majestic, took him. (Bukhari and Muslim)
Abu Said reported that the Prophet (S) said: "Whoever makes I`tikaf with me is to make I'tikaf during the last ten [nights]." (Bukhari)
We can also do what’s called Nafil I’thikaf where one can obtain reward for as long as one is in the Masjid even if it is for a short while.
So every time we enter the Masjid we should make intention of doing Nafil I’thikaf for as long as we are in the Masjid we will get rewarded inshallah depending on how long we stay. If we don’t stay at the Masjid for the full ten days then we should at least strive to stay at the Masjid as much as possible during the odd nights or last 5-7 days.
3. Recite the Qur’an abundantly
Az-Zuhri used to say upon the coming of Ramadan, “It is only about reciting the Qur’an and feeding the poor.”
Ibn Al-Hakam said, “With the advent of Ramadan, Malik would completely forsake studying Hadith and having sessions with other scholars [so that he can concentrate on reading the Qur'an].”
Abdur-Raziq said, “When Ramadan came, Sufyan Ath-Thawri would give up all acts of (voluntary) worship and devote himself to the recitation of the Qur’an.”
Both fasting and recitation of the Qur’an in Ramadan act as intercessors with Almighty Allah for the true believer who observes them.
In this respect, the Prophet salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam said,
Fasting and the Qur’an will intercede on behalf of Allah’s servant on the Day of Judgment. Fasting will say, “O my Lord! I prevented him from food and desires during the day, so accept my intercession for him.” And the Qur’an will say, “O my Lord! I prevented him from sleeping by night, so accept my intercession for him.” The intercession of both will thus be accepted. (Ahmad)
This is the month of the holy Qur’an so we should strive to recite as much of it as we can especially during the last ten nights of Ramadan as there is a special merit to reciting the Qur'an in the nights of Ramadan. For indeed, the night brings an end to the busy daily affairs, the enthusiasm is roused and the heart and the tongue mount upon reflecting. And Allah is the one in whom we seek assistance.
Hazrat Anas radhiyallahu anhu reports that Rasoolullah sallallahu alaihi wasallam said: "Whoever reads the Quran, Allah grants that person ten good deeds for every letter. And for one who hears the Qur’an being recited, Allah grants a good deed for every letter, and such a person will be resurrected among those who will recite and ascend the stages of Jannat."
The reward for reading a letter of the Holy Qur’an in this blessed month is also very much increased so its 70 good deeds or MORE for reading just one letter so lets make the best use of these precious last few days and read as much of the Qur’an as we can!
4. Strive to gain forgiveness
One should strive and do their utmost to gain the mercy of Allah in these last ten days especially. If one leaves Ramadan without gaining the mercy of Allah then surely they are the most unfortunate ones and are the biggest losers in this world and the next.
Aisha (Ra) said: “I asked the Messenger of Allah: 'O Messenger of Allah, if I know what night is the night of Qadr, what should I say during it?' He said: 'Say: O Allah, You are pardoning and You love to pardon, so pardon me.' “
"Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'annee" (Ahmad, Ibn Majah, and Tirmidhi).
Abu Huraira narrated that the Messenger said: “Whoever stands (in prayer) in Laylatul Qadr while nourishing his faith with self-evaluation, expecting reward from Allah, will have all of his previous sins forgiven.” (Bukhari and Muslim).
The best times to ask for forgiveness are just before the time of breaking ones fast and before Sehri after one reads the Tahajjud prayer. These are the times we should concentrate on repenting the most as these times duas are more readily accepted.
We should sincerely repent for past and present sins with the intention of not repeating them again and ask of Allah Ta’aala to help us prevent ourselves from doing them again and ask Allah to perfect our characters and to help us improve ourselves in everyway possible.
5. Do Parents Khidmat (Help)
We should always be the best towards our parents at all times and not even say “uff” to them and in Ramadan and in particular the last ten days we should increase ourselves in helping our Parents and being the best towards them and making them happy and smile.
A man asked Prophet Muhammad "What kinds of deeds are best in the sight of God?" He replied, "To pray on time, to be good and kind to parents, and to struggle in the path of God" (Al-Bukhari).
The reward for being good and kind toward one's parents was mentioned on several occasions by Prophet Muhammad (Saw), emphasizing that those who are obedient to their parents and to God also will be in the highest places in Paradise.
Allah (Glory and Greatness be to Him) mentions in Noble Qur'an:
"And your Lord has commanded that you shall not serve (any) but Him, and goodness to your parents. If either or both of them reach old age with you, say not to them (so much as) "Ugh" nor chide them, and speak to them a generous word. And make yourself submissively gentle to them with compassion, and say: O my Lord! Have compassion on them, as they brought me up (when I was) little." Noble Qur'an (17:23-24)
A man asked Prophet Muhammad(Saw) "What kinds of deeds are best in the sight of God?" He replied, "To pray on time, to be good and kind to parents, and to struggle in the path of God" (Al-Bukhari).
Prophet Muhammad (Saw) also indicated that the pleasure or anger of Allah is in the pleasure or anger of parents, and that Muslims who are kind to their parents earn forgiveness from Allah. The importance of gaining the pleasure of one's parents was also emphasized by Prophet Muhammad (Saw) when he said that the earnest prayers of parents for or against their child are always answered by Allah.
So if our parents are angry or unhappy with us then how do we expect our fasts and deeds to be accepted? How do we expect to gain the mercy and forgiveness from Allah? Now is the time to ask our parents to forgive us for any wrongs we have done towards them and any unhappiness we have brought towards them and start from now to make them the happiest so that Allah may be the happiest with us.
6. Do much Superogatory Prayers (Nafil)
Superogatory prayers(Nafil) are one of the best ways to get close to Allah Ta’aala as well as filling up our good deed accounts. We have to invest as much as we can into the hereafter to just to this world.
Abu Hurairah reports that the Prophet sallallahu alehi wasallam said: "The first thing that the people will be called to account for on the Day of Resurrection will be the prayers. Our Lord will say to the angels although He knows better: 'Look into the salah of my servant to see if he observed it perfectly or been negligent in it. So if he observed it perfectly it will be recorded to his credit, but if he had been negligent in it in any way, Allah would say: See if My servant has any supererogatory prayers. Then if he has any supererogatory prayers, Allah would say: Make up the deficiency in My servant's obligatory prayer with his supererogatory prayers.' Thereafter all his actions will be examined in like manner" (Abu Dawud).
Rabi'ah ibn Malik al-Aslami reported that the Prophet sallallahu alehi wasallam said: "Ask (anything)." Rabi'ah said: "I ask of you to be your companion in paradise." The Prophet said: "Or anything else?" Rabi'ah said: "That is it." The Prophet sallallahu alehi wasallam said to him: "Then help me by making many prostrations (i.e., supererogatory prayers)." (Muslim)
The mother of the believers, Umm Habibah Ramilah bint Abu Sufyan (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that she heard the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) saying: “A house will be built in Paradise for every Muslim who offers twelve units of Prayers other than the obligatory ones in day and night, to seek pleasure of Allah.” (Reported by Muslim)
Here are some Nafil prayers we can all do everyday:
The Two Rakat before Fard of Fajr:
`Aishah, the mother of the believers, quoted the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) as saying: “The two rak`ah before Dawn (Fajr) Prayer are better than the word and all that which it contains.” (Reported by Muslim)
Salaatul Ishraaq (Sunrise prayer-15-20 mins after sunrise) 2 or 2x2 Rakat of Nafil
Rasulullah is reported to have said, 'He who performs Fajr Salat with Jamaat and remains seated in the same place while engaging in Dhikr until after sunrise and thereafter performs 2 Rakaats Nafil Salat, (Ishraaq), he will obtain the Thawaab of one Hajj and one Umrah.' (Tirmidhi).
Duha Prayer (Salaatul Chasht-Breakfast prayer to be prayed before Zawaal(Midday)
'Salat al-Dhuhaa consists of 2 - 12 Rakaats and it is preferable to perform 8 Rakaats.' (Raddul Mukhtaar vol.1 pg.505)
The Prophet (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) is reported to have said that: Whoever prayed twelve rakaats at the time of Chasht, then Allah will, as a reward, prepare a palace of gold for him in Paradise. [Mishkat, Tirmizi, Ibn Majah]
4 Rakah Sunnah before Fard of Zuhr, 2 Rakah Sunnah and 2 Rakah Nafil after Fard of Zuhr
Umm Habibah (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Whoever sticks to the habit of offering four rak`ahs before Noon Prayer and four rak`ahs after it, Allah will shield him against the Hell-Fire.” (Reported by Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi)
4 Rak'aah Sunnah of Asr
Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhe wa sallam) said: "May Allaah have Mercy on the one who offers four (rak'ahs) before 'Asr prayer." (Abu Dawud)
If anyone enters a mosque, he should offer two rak`ahs before sitting.
Abu Qatadah (may Allah be pleased with him) the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) as saying: “If any one of you enters a mosque, he should pray two rak`ahs before sitting.” (Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
2 Rakat after doing Wudu (Ablution)
Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said to Bilal (may Allah be pleased with him): “Tell me about the best of your deeds (i.e. one which you deem the most rewarding) since your embracing Islam because I heard your footsteps in front of me in Paradise.” Bilal (may Allah be pleased with him) replied: “I do not consider any act of mine more rewarding than that whenever I make ablution at any time of night or day, I perform Prayer for as much as was destined for me to do.” (Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim)”
The MOST REWARDING Superogatory Prayer of all is Tahajjud
Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has said: In Paradise there is a castle reserved for those who read Tahajjud and the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) further adds, those who pray at night will enter paradise without having to account for their acts in this life.
It is recommended that you recite in your prayers as much of the Sacred Quran as you know. If you happen to know by heart the whole of the Sacred Quran you may, in at least 3 nights or most 4 nights of Tahajjud effectuate the complete reading of the Sacred Quran.
Otherwise, you may recite 3 Surah Ikhlas (Qul Hu Allahu Ahad) after your "Alhamdu..." in every Rakat and you will thus derive full benefits of the full recital of the Sacred Quran in every Rakat.
During the month of Ramadan one should awake a little earlier for Sehri and make time to pray Tahajjud Salaah for the reward is magnified so much more in Ramadan and duas are even more readily accepted than at any other time of the year. We should be reading Tahajjud EVERY night in the last ten days of Ramdan for any of these nights may be the night of POWER.
The dua's at the time of Tahajjud are very readily accepted by Almighty Allah and one should repent and ask of Allah and try to cry in their dua's at this time, if one cannot cry due to the hardness of ones heart due to sin then at least one should make the face as if one is crying. Just as a mother tends to her baby quickly and promptly when it cries the same way Allah attends to his servant quicker when they are crying.
Salaatul Tasbih
Our beloved Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had taught this Nafil prayer to his Uncle, Hazrat Abbas (RA) and told him; He who performs this prayer will have his past and future sins forgiven.
The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has recommended to read this prayer daily on each Friday or once a month or once a year, in case of this not being possible, to read it even once in one’s life. This Nafil prayer provides limitless benefits both in the material and spiritual life.
Ibn al Mubarak says: “The tasbih prayer is a greatly desired act and it is desirable that one should punctually observe it and never neglect it.
How to perform this Salaah
‘Ikrimah reports from Ibn ‘Abbas that the Messenger of Allah said to ‘Abbas ibn ‘Abdal-Mutalib: “O ‘Abbas, O Uncle, shall I not give you, shall I not present to you, shall I not donate to you, shall I not tell you ten things which, if you do, Allah will forgive your first and last sins, past and present sins, intentional and unintentional sins, private and public sins? The ten actions are: pray four rak’at, reciting in every rak’ah al-Fatihah and a surah. And when you finish the Qur’anic recitation of the first rak’ah, say, while standing, ‘Subhanallah, al-hamdulillah, wa la ilaha illallah, wa Allahu Akbar‘ ['Glory be to Allah. All praise is due to Allah. There is no God except Allah. Allah is the greatest.'] Fifteen times. Then make ruku’, and while you are in ruku’, say the same ten times; then stand, and say the same ten times. Then go down and make sajdah, and while you’re in sajdah, say the same ten times. Then sit after the sajdah, and say the same ten times. Then make sajdah, and say the same ten times. Then sit after the second sajdah, and say the same another ten times. That is seventy-five [repetitions of the phrases] in each rak’ah. Do that in each of the four rak’at. If you can pray it once a day, do so. If you cannot, then once every Friday. If you cannot do that, then once a year. And if you cannot do that then once in your life. “
We should try to read it EVERY night in the last ten days of Ramadan and get COUNTLESS rewards inshallah
Also don’t forget that the Reward of Salaah multiplied 70 times or more by use of Miswaak
‘Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) has reported that,
“The prayer before which the Miswak is used is seventy times more excellent than that before which it is not used.”
7. Increase in Dhikr (Rememberance of Allah)
We should glorify Allah night and day, especially in these last ten days of the blessed month of Ramadan. Remembering Allah much through acts of dhikr brings much peace and tranquillity to the heart. It also gives us a sense of taqwa (fear of allah), a consciousness that makes us realise that Allah Almighty is ever near and that we should always strive to please Him.
"…Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest." (13:28)
Remembrance of Allah indeed is the greatest virtue. (29:46).
Here are some beneficial Dhikr and glorification we can do throughout the last ten days and nights of this blessed month and throughout the year Inshallah:
Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: "Is anyone of you incapable of earning one thousand Hasanah (rewards) a day?" Someone from the gathering asked, "How can anyone of us earn a thousand Hasanah?" Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: "Glorify Allah a hundred times by just saying “Subhanallah” and a Good deeds will be written for you, or a thousand sins will be wiped away.” (Muslim 4:2073)
Hadhrat Abu Dharr [Ra] narrated that Rasulallah [Saw] said: “Should I not tell you of one treasure of the unlimited treasures of Paradise?” I replied spontaneously “Oh Rasulallah (Saw) that would be an honour indeed!” Rasulallah (Saw) said: “That rare treasure is LA HAWLA WA LA QUWWATA ILLA BILLAH.” (“The strength to do good and to refrain from evil comes from the grace and mercy of Allah!”) - (Ibn Majah)
Hadhrat Jaa'bir [Ra] narrated that Rasulallah [Saw] said: “For the person who recites SUB-HAN'ALLAH HIL AZEEM WA BI-HAM'DIHI, [Pure and perfect is Allah in his glory and praise], - A date palm will be planted for him in Paradise” (Tirmidhi)
The Virtues of reading the First Kalimah: The word of purity or the kalima-e-tayyabah.
Lā ilāha illā-llāh, Muḥammadur Rasūlu-llāh
(There is no god except Allah, Muhammad (Saw) is His Messenger)
Hadrat Zaid bin ‘Arqam (Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Messenger of Allah ( ) said: “Whoever says La ilaaha illal-laahu… sincerely will enter the Paradise.”
It was said: And what is the [sign of] sincerity? He said: “That this kalimah stops him from those things which Allah has forbidden.” (Tabaraani in Awsat-ul-Kabeer)
The Virtues of reading the Third Kalimah: The word of glorification or the kalima-e-tamjeed
Subhāna-llāhi, wa-l-hamdu li-llāhi, wa lā ilāha illā-llāhu, wa-llāhu akbar. Wa lā hawla wa lā quwwata illā bi-llāhi-l-aliyyi-l-azīm
Glory be to Allah. And praise be to Allah. And there is no god except Allah. And Allah is the Greatest. And there is no power and no strength except with Allah, the Most High, Most Great.
Ibn Mas’ood (Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Messenger of Allah ( ) said: “When I met Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) in the night of Mi’raaj he asked me to convey his Salaam to my Ummah and to tell them that the Paradise has a fertile soil and sweet water, and is like a vast field. And its plants are [the words above].” Another version says: “Whoever recites the words above, a tree in Paradise is planted for him for each word he says.” (Virtues of Dhikr; Tirmidhi)
Virtues of reading the Fourth Kalimah: The word of Oneness of Allah or the kalima-e-tawhid:
Lā ilāha illā-llāhu waḥdahu lā sharīka lahu lahu-l-mulku wa lahu-l-ḥamdu yuhyi wa yumītu wa huwa ḥayyu-llā yamūtu abadan abada, ḏū-l-jalāli wa-l-ikrām, biyadihi-l-khayr, wa huwa alā kulli Shay-in qadīr.
There is no god except Allah, Who is Alone and has no partners. For Him is the Dominion and for Him is all praise. He gives life and causes death. And He is Living and will never ever die. Owner of Majesty and Honor: In His Hands is all goodness. And He has power over all things.
Abu Hurairah (Allah be pleased with him) reports that the Messenger of Allah (Saw) said: “A person who recites: Laa ilaaha illal-laahu wahdahu laa shareeka lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu wa huwa ‘alaa kulli shay-in qadeer, a hundred times daily will have reward equal to that of freeing ten slaves and one hundred good deeds will be written for him, and one hundred of his sins will be lifted from him, and for the whole day, he will remain immune from the Shaytaan until the evening, and on the Day of Judgment, no one will exceed him in merit except one who has done [these phrases] more.” (Bukhari,Book #75, Hadith #412)
Its SO easy and quick to Earn 500 good deeds in a few minutes in Ramadhan.
If you were to manage 500 good deeds every day of Ramadan, you would receive (70 times 500 = 35000) multiplied by 30 days..........1,050,000 deeds! One million fifty thousand deeds!
Just say Subhanallah 100 times, Alhamdullilah 100 times, Allahu Akbar 100 times, La ilaha il Allah 100 times and Astaghfar allah 100 times.
8. Make much dua
We should be very busy in Dua as much as we can especially in the last ten days and nights of the blessed month of Ramadan. How unfortunate is the one who does not make use of these last ten nights to supplicate to his lord.
We find many reassurances throughout the Quran for those who make Dua.
Allah the Exalted, has said: "And your Lord says: Pray unto me: and I will hear your prayer" (Quran 40:60), "Call upon your Lord Humbly and in secret" (Quran 7:55), "When My servants question thee concerning Me, I am indeed close (to them): I listen to the prayer of every suppliant when he calleth on Me" (Quran 2:186),
"Is not He (best) who listens to the (soul) distressed when it calls on Him, and who relieves its suffering." (Quran 27:62)
Aisha radhiallaahu anha said, "No believer makes Dua and it is wasted. Either it is granted here in this world or deposited for him in the Hereafter as long as he does not get frustrated."
In fact, it is a gaining Allah’s displeasure and anger to never make Dua, "Whosoever does not supplicate to Allah, He will be angry with Him." [Saheeh Jaami`as-Sagheer #2414]
So let us occupy ourselves in much Dua especially the times when it is most readily accepted like just before we break our fasts and also at Tahajjud time. Thos who do not make the best of this opportunity has surely lost out greatly.
Allah Almighty says in the Qur'an:
"When my servants ask you concerning me, (tell them) I am indeed close (to them). I listen to the prayer of every suppliant when he calls on me." [2:186] The place of duaa is so high to Allah, that the Prophet had said: "Nothing is more honourable to Allah the Most High than du`a."[Sahih al-Jami` no.5268].
He also said: "The most excellent worship is du`a." [Sahih Al-Jami` no. 1133];
9. Seek out Laylatul Qadr (Night of Power)
So valuable is this Night of Qadr that the Quran devotes a special surah to
it “Lailatul Qadr is better than a thousand months” [97:3] This one night surpasses the value of 30,000 nights. The most authentic account of the occurrence of the Night indicates that it can occur on any one of the last ten, odd numbered nights of Ramadan. We should strive to stay up at least on the odd nights of the last ten days because if we pray on these nights then surely we would have caught this most powerful night and this would mean we would have a reward of 83 YEARS OF WORSHIP!
Some special prayers and Dhikr for Laitul Qadr
1. Seeking Forgiveness.
Hazrat Aa'ishah radhiyallahu anhaa asked the Prophet sallalahu alayhi wasallam that if she happened to get the night sublime what prayer should she say. The Prophet sallalahu alayhi wasallam replied that she should say the following prayer :
"Allahumma innaka afuwwun kareemun tuhib-bul af-wa fa-afo anni"
(O Allah, You are the One who grants pardon for sins, loves forgiving, so forgive me.)
2. Reciting Astaghfar.
The following should be recited as much as possible:
"Astaghfirullah hallazi la-ila-ha illa huwal Hayyul Qayyumo wa atu-bu ilaihe"
(I seek forgiveness from Allah, the Almighty; there is no God but He. He is self-Existent, the Eternal and I return to Him)
3. Reciting Surah `Inna anzalnahu...'
"Inna anzalnahu fee lailatul Qadr, Wa maa adraka maa lailatul Qadr.
Lailatul Qadri khairum min alfi shahr. Tanazzalul malai-katu var-roohu
fee ha bi izni Rabbihim min kulle amr. Salaamun heya hatta matla-il fajr."
Want all your lifes previous sins forgiven?
Abu Hurayrah (radhiallahu `anhu) narrated that the Messenger (sallallahu
`alayhi wa sallam) said: "Whoever stands (in qiyaam) in Laylat ul-Qadr out of faith and expectation (of Allah's reward), will have ALL of his previous sins forgiven." (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
It is also the Night when all ordainments for the year are decreed. Allah (T)
said, which means:
{By the manifest Book (the Quraan) that makes thing clear. We sent it (this
Quraan) down on a Blessed Night (i.e. the Night of Qadr) in the month of
Ramadaan. Verily We are ever warning [mankind that Our Torments will reach
those who disbelieve in Our Oneness of Lordship and in Our Oneness of
Wordship]. Therein (that night) is decreed every matter (amran) of
ordainment} (The Smoke 44:2-5)
SO LET US WORSHIP ALLAH EVERY ODD NIGHT (21,23,25,27,29) IN THE LAST TEN DAYS OF RAMADAN AND GAIN THE COUNTLESS REWARDS AND FORGIVENESS THAT IS PROMISED TO THOSE PEOPLE WHO STAND IN PRAYER ON THESE MOST IMPORTANT AND BLESSED NIGHTS!
10. Assess and evaluate yourself and make the changes for the rest of the year!
While the practice of fasting during Ramadan is widely followed, the instruction about self-evaluation has largely been forgotten.
Self-evaluation means to assess where you are in life, set goals for the future, and think of what you can do to get there. The process of self-evaluation makes you pro-active in directing your life. Unless we take the initiative our lives will be shaped by circumstances.
We need to assess ourselves and since this month made us prevent ourselves from doing many of the sins we may usually do why should we go back to those sins now that we have stopped or reduced them?
Let uscontinuewith the good habits that we have gained and acquired in Ramadan and take them with us throughout the rest of the year.
If we continue the rest of the year with the evil we committed before Ramadan then know that we are risking the acceptance of all of our fasts and good deeds because Ramadan is not merely just for abstaining from food and evil for just one month but is a time to train ourselves to change for the better in everyway so that we may become god fearing and pious and continue that way the rest of the year.
We should strive to continue the good we have done in Ramadan throughout the year and discontinue the evil that we left before Ramadan and NEVER go back to it.
May Allah guide us all to the right path and make us pious servants of his. Ameen.
The last ten days of Ramadan are very precious indeed:
Allah's Messenger used to exert himself in devotion during the last ten nights to a greater extent than at any other time." (Muslim).
Hazrat Aishah (Ra) reported that during the last ten days of Ramadan; the Messenger of Allah would wake his wives up during the night and then remain apart from them (that is, being busy in acts of worship). (Bukhari)
Hazrat Aisha (Ra) reported that with the start of the last ten days of Ramadan, the Prophet (Saw) used to tighten his waist belt (i.e. work hard) and used to pray all the night, and used to keep his family awake for the prayers. (Bukhari)
So we need to tighten all of our belts especially in these last ten days and do as much as we can to thank Allah and worship him and ask him for forgiveness.
Here are some ways that we can all make the best of these precious last ten days of this most blessed month:
1. Make a timetable for oneself for the last ten days
One should make a timetable for oneself so that one can make the best of these last 10 precious days.
One can include the times that one will read the Qur’an and how much one will read like one juz (Chapter) or half a juz etc as well as certain Nafilprayers one will do throughout the day and night and any worship that one will do etc.
One should strive to make time the to worship on at least the last odd nights of the last ten days as these are the nights where it is said that it is most likely to be Laylat ul Qadr (The night of power).
Making a structured timetable may help one to better organise oneself especially in these precious days 10 days.
2. Spend the last 10 days in I’thikaaf
I`tikaf is the seclusion and staying in the Masjid with the intention of becoming closer to Allah by doing constant remembrance, glorification and worship of Allah Ta’aala.
One should perform as many Nafil prayers as possible and recite much of the Qur’an and its meanings, read books on Islam and keep ones lips moist with the constant glorification and remembrance of Allah ta’aala.
`Aishah radhiya Allahu `anha reported that the Prophet, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam, "Used to perform i'tikaf in the last ten days of Ramadan until Allah the Mighty and Majestic, took him. (Bukhari and Muslim)
Abu Said reported that the Prophet (S) said: "Whoever makes I`tikaf with me is to make I'tikaf during the last ten [nights]." (Bukhari)
We can also do what’s called Nafil I’thikaf where one can obtain reward for as long as one is in the Masjid even if it is for a short while.
So every time we enter the Masjid we should make intention of doing Nafil I’thikaf for as long as we are in the Masjid we will get rewarded inshallah depending on how long we stay. If we don’t stay at the Masjid for the full ten days then we should at least strive to stay at the Masjid as much as possible during the odd nights or last 5-7 days.
3. Recite the Qur’an abundantly
Az-Zuhri used to say upon the coming of Ramadan, “It is only about reciting the Qur’an and feeding the poor.”
Ibn Al-Hakam said, “With the advent of Ramadan, Malik would completely forsake studying Hadith and having sessions with other scholars [so that he can concentrate on reading the Qur'an].”
Abdur-Raziq said, “When Ramadan came, Sufyan Ath-Thawri would give up all acts of (voluntary) worship and devote himself to the recitation of the Qur’an.”
Both fasting and recitation of the Qur’an in Ramadan act as intercessors with Almighty Allah for the true believer who observes them.
In this respect, the Prophet salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam said,
Fasting and the Qur’an will intercede on behalf of Allah’s servant on the Day of Judgment. Fasting will say, “O my Lord! I prevented him from food and desires during the day, so accept my intercession for him.” And the Qur’an will say, “O my Lord! I prevented him from sleeping by night, so accept my intercession for him.” The intercession of both will thus be accepted. (Ahmad)
This is the month of the holy Qur’an so we should strive to recite as much of it as we can especially during the last ten nights of Ramadan as there is a special merit to reciting the Qur'an in the nights of Ramadan. For indeed, the night brings an end to the busy daily affairs, the enthusiasm is roused and the heart and the tongue mount upon reflecting. And Allah is the one in whom we seek assistance.
Hazrat Anas radhiyallahu anhu reports that Rasoolullah sallallahu alaihi wasallam said: "Whoever reads the Quran, Allah grants that person ten good deeds for every letter. And for one who hears the Qur’an being recited, Allah grants a good deed for every letter, and such a person will be resurrected among those who will recite and ascend the stages of Jannat."
The reward for reading a letter of the Holy Qur’an in this blessed month is also very much increased so its 70 good deeds or MORE for reading just one letter so lets make the best use of these precious last few days and read as much of the Qur’an as we can!
4. Strive to gain forgiveness
One should strive and do their utmost to gain the mercy of Allah in these last ten days especially. If one leaves Ramadan without gaining the mercy of Allah then surely they are the most unfortunate ones and are the biggest losers in this world and the next.
Aisha (Ra) said: “I asked the Messenger of Allah: 'O Messenger of Allah, if I know what night is the night of Qadr, what should I say during it?' He said: 'Say: O Allah, You are pardoning and You love to pardon, so pardon me.' “
"Allahumma innaka 'afuwwun tuhibbul 'afwa fa'fu 'annee" (Ahmad, Ibn Majah, and Tirmidhi).
Abu Huraira narrated that the Messenger said: “Whoever stands (in prayer) in Laylatul Qadr while nourishing his faith with self-evaluation, expecting reward from Allah, will have all of his previous sins forgiven.” (Bukhari and Muslim).
The best times to ask for forgiveness are just before the time of breaking ones fast and before Sehri after one reads the Tahajjud prayer. These are the times we should concentrate on repenting the most as these times duas are more readily accepted.
We should sincerely repent for past and present sins with the intention of not repeating them again and ask of Allah Ta’aala to help us prevent ourselves from doing them again and ask Allah to perfect our characters and to help us improve ourselves in everyway possible.
5. Do Parents Khidmat (Help)
We should always be the best towards our parents at all times and not even say “uff” to them and in Ramadan and in particular the last ten days we should increase ourselves in helping our Parents and being the best towards them and making them happy and smile.
A man asked Prophet Muhammad "What kinds of deeds are best in the sight of God?" He replied, "To pray on time, to be good and kind to parents, and to struggle in the path of God" (Al-Bukhari).
The reward for being good and kind toward one's parents was mentioned on several occasions by Prophet Muhammad (Saw), emphasizing that those who are obedient to their parents and to God also will be in the highest places in Paradise.
Allah (Glory and Greatness be to Him) mentions in Noble Qur'an:
"And your Lord has commanded that you shall not serve (any) but Him, and goodness to your parents. If either or both of them reach old age with you, say not to them (so much as) "Ugh" nor chide them, and speak to them a generous word. And make yourself submissively gentle to them with compassion, and say: O my Lord! Have compassion on them, as they brought me up (when I was) little." Noble Qur'an (17:23-24)
A man asked Prophet Muhammad(Saw) "What kinds of deeds are best in the sight of God?" He replied, "To pray on time, to be good and kind to parents, and to struggle in the path of God" (Al-Bukhari).
Prophet Muhammad (Saw) also indicated that the pleasure or anger of Allah is in the pleasure or anger of parents, and that Muslims who are kind to their parents earn forgiveness from Allah. The importance of gaining the pleasure of one's parents was also emphasized by Prophet Muhammad (Saw) when he said that the earnest prayers of parents for or against their child are always answered by Allah.
So if our parents are angry or unhappy with us then how do we expect our fasts and deeds to be accepted? How do we expect to gain the mercy and forgiveness from Allah? Now is the time to ask our parents to forgive us for any wrongs we have done towards them and any unhappiness we have brought towards them and start from now to make them the happiest so that Allah may be the happiest with us.
6. Do much Superogatory Prayers (Nafil)
Superogatory prayers(Nafil) are one of the best ways to get close to Allah Ta’aala as well as filling up our good deed accounts. We have to invest as much as we can into the hereafter to just to this world.
Abu Hurairah reports that the Prophet sallallahu alehi wasallam said: "The first thing that the people will be called to account for on the Day of Resurrection will be the prayers. Our Lord will say to the angels although He knows better: 'Look into the salah of my servant to see if he observed it perfectly or been negligent in it. So if he observed it perfectly it will be recorded to his credit, but if he had been negligent in it in any way, Allah would say: See if My servant has any supererogatory prayers. Then if he has any supererogatory prayers, Allah would say: Make up the deficiency in My servant's obligatory prayer with his supererogatory prayers.' Thereafter all his actions will be examined in like manner" (Abu Dawud).
Rabi'ah ibn Malik al-Aslami reported that the Prophet sallallahu alehi wasallam said: "Ask (anything)." Rabi'ah said: "I ask of you to be your companion in paradise." The Prophet said: "Or anything else?" Rabi'ah said: "That is it." The Prophet sallallahu alehi wasallam said to him: "Then help me by making many prostrations (i.e., supererogatory prayers)." (Muslim)
The mother of the believers, Umm Habibah Ramilah bint Abu Sufyan (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that she heard the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) saying: “A house will be built in Paradise for every Muslim who offers twelve units of Prayers other than the obligatory ones in day and night, to seek pleasure of Allah.” (Reported by Muslim)
Here are some Nafil prayers we can all do everyday:
The Two Rakat before Fard of Fajr:
`Aishah, the mother of the believers, quoted the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) as saying: “The two rak`ah before Dawn (Fajr) Prayer are better than the word and all that which it contains.” (Reported by Muslim)
Salaatul Ishraaq (Sunrise prayer-15-20 mins after sunrise) 2 or 2x2 Rakat of Nafil
Rasulullah is reported to have said, 'He who performs Fajr Salat with Jamaat and remains seated in the same place while engaging in Dhikr until after sunrise and thereafter performs 2 Rakaats Nafil Salat, (Ishraaq), he will obtain the Thawaab of one Hajj and one Umrah.' (Tirmidhi).
Duha Prayer (Salaatul Chasht-Breakfast prayer to be prayed before Zawaal(Midday)
'Salat al-Dhuhaa consists of 2 - 12 Rakaats and it is preferable to perform 8 Rakaats.' (Raddul Mukhtaar vol.1 pg.505)
The Prophet (sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) is reported to have said that: Whoever prayed twelve rakaats at the time of Chasht, then Allah will, as a reward, prepare a palace of gold for him in Paradise. [Mishkat, Tirmizi, Ibn Majah]
4 Rakah Sunnah before Fard of Zuhr, 2 Rakah Sunnah and 2 Rakah Nafil after Fard of Zuhr
Umm Habibah (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Whoever sticks to the habit of offering four rak`ahs before Noon Prayer and four rak`ahs after it, Allah will shield him against the Hell-Fire.” (Reported by Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi)
4 Rak'aah Sunnah of Asr
Messenger (sallallaahu 'alayhe wa sallam) said: "May Allaah have Mercy on the one who offers four (rak'ahs) before 'Asr prayer." (Abu Dawud)
If anyone enters a mosque, he should offer two rak`ahs before sitting.
Abu Qatadah (may Allah be pleased with him) the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) as saying: “If any one of you enters a mosque, he should pray two rak`ahs before sitting.” (Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
2 Rakat after doing Wudu (Ablution)
Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said to Bilal (may Allah be pleased with him): “Tell me about the best of your deeds (i.e. one which you deem the most rewarding) since your embracing Islam because I heard your footsteps in front of me in Paradise.” Bilal (may Allah be pleased with him) replied: “I do not consider any act of mine more rewarding than that whenever I make ablution at any time of night or day, I perform Prayer for as much as was destined for me to do.” (Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim)”
The MOST REWARDING Superogatory Prayer of all is Tahajjud
Prophet Muhammad (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has said: In Paradise there is a castle reserved for those who read Tahajjud and the Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) further adds, those who pray at night will enter paradise without having to account for their acts in this life.
It is recommended that you recite in your prayers as much of the Sacred Quran as you know. If you happen to know by heart the whole of the Sacred Quran you may, in at least 3 nights or most 4 nights of Tahajjud effectuate the complete reading of the Sacred Quran.
Otherwise, you may recite 3 Surah Ikhlas (Qul Hu Allahu Ahad) after your "Alhamdu..." in every Rakat and you will thus derive full benefits of the full recital of the Sacred Quran in every Rakat.
During the month of Ramadan one should awake a little earlier for Sehri and make time to pray Tahajjud Salaah for the reward is magnified so much more in Ramadan and duas are even more readily accepted than at any other time of the year. We should be reading Tahajjud EVERY night in the last ten days of Ramdan for any of these nights may be the night of POWER.
The dua's at the time of Tahajjud are very readily accepted by Almighty Allah and one should repent and ask of Allah and try to cry in their dua's at this time, if one cannot cry due to the hardness of ones heart due to sin then at least one should make the face as if one is crying. Just as a mother tends to her baby quickly and promptly when it cries the same way Allah attends to his servant quicker when they are crying.
Salaatul Tasbih
Our beloved Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) had taught this Nafil prayer to his Uncle, Hazrat Abbas (RA) and told him; He who performs this prayer will have his past and future sins forgiven.
The Prophet (sallal laahu alaihi wasallam) has recommended to read this prayer daily on each Friday or once a month or once a year, in case of this not being possible, to read it even once in one’s life. This Nafil prayer provides limitless benefits both in the material and spiritual life.
Ibn al Mubarak says: “The tasbih prayer is a greatly desired act and it is desirable that one should punctually observe it and never neglect it.
How to perform this Salaah
‘Ikrimah reports from Ibn ‘Abbas that the Messenger of Allah said to ‘Abbas ibn ‘Abdal-Mutalib: “O ‘Abbas, O Uncle, shall I not give you, shall I not present to you, shall I not donate to you, shall I not tell you ten things which, if you do, Allah will forgive your first and last sins, past and present sins, intentional and unintentional sins, private and public sins? The ten actions are: pray four rak’at, reciting in every rak’ah al-Fatihah and a surah. And when you finish the Qur’anic recitation of the first rak’ah, say, while standing, ‘Subhanallah, al-hamdulillah, wa la ilaha illallah, wa Allahu Akbar‘ ['Glory be to Allah. All praise is due to Allah. There is no God except Allah. Allah is the greatest.'] Fifteen times. Then make ruku’, and while you are in ruku’, say the same ten times; then stand, and say the same ten times. Then go down and make sajdah, and while you’re in sajdah, say the same ten times. Then sit after the sajdah, and say the same ten times. Then make sajdah, and say the same ten times. Then sit after the second sajdah, and say the same another ten times. That is seventy-five [repetitions of the phrases] in each rak’ah. Do that in each of the four rak’at. If you can pray it once a day, do so. If you cannot, then once every Friday. If you cannot do that, then once a year. And if you cannot do that then once in your life. “
We should try to read it EVERY night in the last ten days of Ramadan and get COUNTLESS rewards inshallah
Also don’t forget that the Reward of Salaah multiplied 70 times or more by use of Miswaak
‘Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) has reported that,
“The prayer before which the Miswak is used is seventy times more excellent than that before which it is not used.”
7. Increase in Dhikr (Rememberance of Allah)
We should glorify Allah night and day, especially in these last ten days of the blessed month of Ramadan. Remembering Allah much through acts of dhikr brings much peace and tranquillity to the heart. It also gives us a sense of taqwa (fear of allah), a consciousness that makes us realise that Allah Almighty is ever near and that we should always strive to please Him.
"…Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest." (13:28)
Remembrance of Allah indeed is the greatest virtue. (29:46).
Here are some beneficial Dhikr and glorification we can do throughout the last ten days and nights of this blessed month and throughout the year Inshallah:
Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: "Is anyone of you incapable of earning one thousand Hasanah (rewards) a day?" Someone from the gathering asked, "How can anyone of us earn a thousand Hasanah?" Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said: "Glorify Allah a hundred times by just saying “Subhanallah” and a Good deeds will be written for you, or a thousand sins will be wiped away.” (Muslim 4:2073)
Hadhrat Abu Dharr [Ra] narrated that Rasulallah [Saw] said: “Should I not tell you of one treasure of the unlimited treasures of Paradise?” I replied spontaneously “Oh Rasulallah (Saw) that would be an honour indeed!” Rasulallah (Saw) said: “That rare treasure is LA HAWLA WA LA QUWWATA ILLA BILLAH.” (“The strength to do good and to refrain from evil comes from the grace and mercy of Allah!”) - (Ibn Majah)
Hadhrat Jaa'bir [Ra] narrated that Rasulallah [Saw] said: “For the person who recites SUB-HAN'ALLAH HIL AZEEM WA BI-HAM'DIHI, [Pure and perfect is Allah in his glory and praise], - A date palm will be planted for him in Paradise” (Tirmidhi)
The Virtues of reading the First Kalimah: The word of purity or the kalima-e-tayyabah.
Lā ilāha illā-llāh, Muḥammadur Rasūlu-llāh
(There is no god except Allah, Muhammad (Saw) is His Messenger)
Hadrat Zaid bin ‘Arqam (Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Messenger of Allah ( ) said: “Whoever says La ilaaha illal-laahu… sincerely will enter the Paradise.”
It was said: And what is the [sign of] sincerity? He said: “That this kalimah stops him from those things which Allah has forbidden.” (Tabaraani in Awsat-ul-Kabeer)
The Virtues of reading the Third Kalimah: The word of glorification or the kalima-e-tamjeed
Subhāna-llāhi, wa-l-hamdu li-llāhi, wa lā ilāha illā-llāhu, wa-llāhu akbar. Wa lā hawla wa lā quwwata illā bi-llāhi-l-aliyyi-l-azīm
Glory be to Allah. And praise be to Allah. And there is no god except Allah. And Allah is the Greatest. And there is no power and no strength except with Allah, the Most High, Most Great.
Ibn Mas’ood (Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Messenger of Allah ( ) said: “When I met Prophet Ibrahim (peace be upon him) in the night of Mi’raaj he asked me to convey his Salaam to my Ummah and to tell them that the Paradise has a fertile soil and sweet water, and is like a vast field. And its plants are [the words above].” Another version says: “Whoever recites the words above, a tree in Paradise is planted for him for each word he says.” (Virtues of Dhikr; Tirmidhi)
Virtues of reading the Fourth Kalimah: The word of Oneness of Allah or the kalima-e-tawhid:
Lā ilāha illā-llāhu waḥdahu lā sharīka lahu lahu-l-mulku wa lahu-l-ḥamdu yuhyi wa yumītu wa huwa ḥayyu-llā yamūtu abadan abada, ḏū-l-jalāli wa-l-ikrām, biyadihi-l-khayr, wa huwa alā kulli Shay-in qadīr.
There is no god except Allah, Who is Alone and has no partners. For Him is the Dominion and for Him is all praise. He gives life and causes death. And He is Living and will never ever die. Owner of Majesty and Honor: In His Hands is all goodness. And He has power over all things.
Abu Hurairah (Allah be pleased with him) reports that the Messenger of Allah (Saw) said: “A person who recites: Laa ilaaha illal-laahu wahdahu laa shareeka lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu wa huwa ‘alaa kulli shay-in qadeer, a hundred times daily will have reward equal to that of freeing ten slaves and one hundred good deeds will be written for him, and one hundred of his sins will be lifted from him, and for the whole day, he will remain immune from the Shaytaan until the evening, and on the Day of Judgment, no one will exceed him in merit except one who has done [these phrases] more.” (Bukhari,Book #75, Hadith #412)
Its SO easy and quick to Earn 500 good deeds in a few minutes in Ramadhan.
If you were to manage 500 good deeds every day of Ramadan, you would receive (70 times 500 = 35000) multiplied by 30 days..........1,050,000 deeds! One million fifty thousand deeds!
Just say Subhanallah 100 times, Alhamdullilah 100 times, Allahu Akbar 100 times, La ilaha il Allah 100 times and Astaghfar allah 100 times.
8. Make much dua
We should be very busy in Dua as much as we can especially in the last ten days and nights of the blessed month of Ramadan. How unfortunate is the one who does not make use of these last ten nights to supplicate to his lord.
We find many reassurances throughout the Quran for those who make Dua.
Allah the Exalted, has said: "And your Lord says: Pray unto me: and I will hear your prayer" (Quran 40:60), "Call upon your Lord Humbly and in secret" (Quran 7:55), "When My servants question thee concerning Me, I am indeed close (to them): I listen to the prayer of every suppliant when he calleth on Me" (Quran 2:186),
"Is not He (best) who listens to the (soul) distressed when it calls on Him, and who relieves its suffering." (Quran 27:62)
Aisha radhiallaahu anha said, "No believer makes Dua and it is wasted. Either it is granted here in this world or deposited for him in the Hereafter as long as he does not get frustrated."
In fact, it is a gaining Allah’s displeasure and anger to never make Dua, "Whosoever does not supplicate to Allah, He will be angry with Him." [Saheeh Jaami`as-Sagheer #2414]
So let us occupy ourselves in much Dua especially the times when it is most readily accepted like just before we break our fasts and also at Tahajjud time. Thos who do not make the best of this opportunity has surely lost out greatly.
Allah Almighty says in the Qur'an:
"When my servants ask you concerning me, (tell them) I am indeed close (to them). I listen to the prayer of every suppliant when he calls on me." [2:186] The place of duaa is so high to Allah, that the Prophet had said: "Nothing is more honourable to Allah the Most High than du`a."[Sahih al-Jami` no.5268].
He also said: "The most excellent worship is du`a." [Sahih Al-Jami` no. 1133];
9. Seek out Laylatul Qadr (Night of Power)
So valuable is this Night of Qadr that the Quran devotes a special surah to
it “Lailatul Qadr is better than a thousand months” [97:3] This one night surpasses the value of 30,000 nights. The most authentic account of the occurrence of the Night indicates that it can occur on any one of the last ten, odd numbered nights of Ramadan. We should strive to stay up at least on the odd nights of the last ten days because if we pray on these nights then surely we would have caught this most powerful night and this would mean we would have a reward of 83 YEARS OF WORSHIP!
Some special prayers and Dhikr for Laitul Qadr
1. Seeking Forgiveness.
Hazrat Aa'ishah radhiyallahu anhaa asked the Prophet sallalahu alayhi wasallam that if she happened to get the night sublime what prayer should she say. The Prophet sallalahu alayhi wasallam replied that she should say the following prayer :
"Allahumma innaka afuwwun kareemun tuhib-bul af-wa fa-afo anni"
(O Allah, You are the One who grants pardon for sins, loves forgiving, so forgive me.)
2. Reciting Astaghfar.
The following should be recited as much as possible:
"Astaghfirullah hallazi la-ila-ha illa huwal Hayyul Qayyumo wa atu-bu ilaihe"
(I seek forgiveness from Allah, the Almighty; there is no God but He. He is self-Existent, the Eternal and I return to Him)
3. Reciting Surah `Inna anzalnahu...'
"Inna anzalnahu fee lailatul Qadr, Wa maa adraka maa lailatul Qadr.
Lailatul Qadri khairum min alfi shahr. Tanazzalul malai-katu var-roohu
fee ha bi izni Rabbihim min kulle amr. Salaamun heya hatta matla-il fajr."
Want all your lifes previous sins forgiven?
Abu Hurayrah (radhiallahu `anhu) narrated that the Messenger (sallallahu
`alayhi wa sallam) said: "Whoever stands (in qiyaam) in Laylat ul-Qadr out of faith and expectation (of Allah's reward), will have ALL of his previous sins forgiven." (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
It is also the Night when all ordainments for the year are decreed. Allah (T)
said, which means:
{By the manifest Book (the Quraan) that makes thing clear. We sent it (this
Quraan) down on a Blessed Night (i.e. the Night of Qadr) in the month of
Ramadaan. Verily We are ever warning [mankind that Our Torments will reach
those who disbelieve in Our Oneness of Lordship and in Our Oneness of
Wordship]. Therein (that night) is decreed every matter (amran) of
ordainment} (The Smoke 44:2-5)
SO LET US WORSHIP ALLAH EVERY ODD NIGHT (21,23,25,27,29) IN THE LAST TEN DAYS OF RAMADAN AND GAIN THE COUNTLESS REWARDS AND FORGIVENESS THAT IS PROMISED TO THOSE PEOPLE WHO STAND IN PRAYER ON THESE MOST IMPORTANT AND BLESSED NIGHTS!
10. Assess and evaluate yourself and make the changes for the rest of the year!
While the practice of fasting during Ramadan is widely followed, the instruction about self-evaluation has largely been forgotten.
Self-evaluation means to assess where you are in life, set goals for the future, and think of what you can do to get there. The process of self-evaluation makes you pro-active in directing your life. Unless we take the initiative our lives will be shaped by circumstances.
We need to assess ourselves and since this month made us prevent ourselves from doing many of the sins we may usually do why should we go back to those sins now that we have stopped or reduced them?
Let uscontinuewith the good habits that we have gained and acquired in Ramadan and take them with us throughout the rest of the year.
If we continue the rest of the year with the evil we committed before Ramadan then know that we are risking the acceptance of all of our fasts and good deeds because Ramadan is not merely just for abstaining from food and evil for just one month but is a time to train ourselves to change for the better in everyway so that we may become god fearing and pious and continue that way the rest of the year.
We should strive to continue the good we have done in Ramadan throughout the year and discontinue the evil that we left before Ramadan and NEVER go back to it.
May Allah guide us all to the right path and make us pious servants of his. Ameen.
Wednesday, August 8, 2012
LAYLATUL_QADR
Lailat-ul-Qadr - The night of Power
In this night (27th of Ramadan), the Holy Quran was sent down from LAUHUL MAHFUZ (the Preserved Tablet) to the earth. Messenger of ALLAH (Blessings of Allah and peace be on him) told us to search for Shab-e-Qadr in the odd numbered nights, in the last ten days of Ramadan. So, the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th or 29th night of Ramadan could be Shab-e-Qadr.
Hazrat Aisha Radiallah Anha stated that Rasool Allah peace be upon him said, "Look for Lailat-Ul-Qadr in the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadhan." (Bukhari)
Hazrat Aisha Radiallah Anha stated that as much Rasool Allah peace be upon him tried (Ibadat) in the last Ashra (ten days) of Ramadhan, did not try in any of the Ashra." (Muslim)
Hazrat Aisha Radiallah Anha stated that I asked Rasool Allah peace be upon him, "If I find Lailatul Qadar then what should I do? HE peace be upon him said, recite this Dua."ALLAH HUMMA INNAKA A’FUWUN TOHIBBUL AFWA FA’AFU ANNI" (Tirmidhi)
Please take advantage of this night, from sunset till sunrise. Offer nawafil (prayers), recite QUR'AAN, do repent (Istaghfar), and Pray for pardon, recite many many Salawat (Darood Sharif & Salaam) and make benediction (Dua'as).
Special DU’AA of Lailatul QADR:
"ALLAH HUMMA INNAKA A’FUVUN TOHIB BUL AFVA FA’AFU ANNI" (Tirmidhi)
"O Allah! You are the Forgiver and You like forgiving so forgive me”
21st Night of Ramadhan-Ul-Mubarak - 1st night of Laitlat-Ul-Qadr
1) Pray 4 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’t) (2 cycles of 2 raka' eaAch).In each raka', after Surah FATIHA recite Surah QADR (Inna anzalna .. )once and Surah IKHLAS (Qul-hu-wal-lah..) once. After completion recite SALAAT-O-SALAAM (Durood Sharif) seventy (70) times.
Benefit: Insha Allah, Angels will pray for forgivenss for that person.
2) Offer 2 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’t)
In each raka', after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR once and Surah IKHLAS three times. After completion of this salah, recite any Astaghfar seventy times.
Astaghfar: "Allah Hummagh Fir Li Wa Tub A'laiyya Inna Ka Innta Tawwabur Raheem" OR "Astaghfirullah Rabbi Min Kulli Zambiyon Wa Atoobu ilaiyh"
Benefit: Effective for forgivness of sins.
3) In this night (21st), recite Surah QADR 21 times.
23rd Night of Ramadhan-Ul-Mubarak - 2nd night of Laitlat-Ul-Qadr
1) Offer 4 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’t) (2 sets of 2 raka’ each)
In each raka', after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR once and Surah IKHLAS three times.
Benefit: Effective for forgivness of sins.
2) Offer 8 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’) (4 sets of 2 raka’ each)
In each raka', after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR and Surah IKHLAS once. After completion of this salah (namaaz) recite the third kalima (Kalima Tamjeed) 70 times. After that, plead to Allah Almighty for forgiveness of sins.
Kalima Tamjeed: "Subhan Allahi Wal Hamdu Lillahi Wa La ilaaha illal laho Walla Hu Akbar.Wala Haowla Wala Quwwata illa Billa Hil Aliyil Azeem".
Benefit: Allah Willing (Insha’Allah), Allah will forgive whoever performs this prayer
3) In the 23rd night recite Surah YAASEEN once and Surah RAHMAAN once.
25th Night of Ramadhan-Ul-Mubarak - 3rd night of Laitlat-Ul-Qadr
1) In this night offer 4 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’t) (2 sets of 2 raka’ each)
After Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR one time and Surah IKHLAS five times in each raka’. After completion of this salat recite the first Kalima Tayyab 100 times.
Kalima Tayyab: "Laa ilaaha illal Laho Mohammadur Rasoolullah".
Benifit: Insha Allah, Allah Tala will give him/her unlimited Sawab (good Deeds)
2) Offer 4 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’) (2 sets of 2 raka’ each)
In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR three times and Surah IKHLAS three times. After completion of this salah, recite any Astaghfar 70 times.
Astaghfar: "Allah Hummagh Fir Li Wa Tub A'laiyya Inna Ka Innta Tawwabur Raheem" OR "Astaghfirullah Rabbi Min Kulli Zambiyon Wa Atoobu ilaiyh"
Benefit: This salat is good for the pardoning of sins.
3.Offer two cycles of ritual prayer (raka’).
In each raka', after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR once and Surah IKHLAS fifteen times. After Salat, recite the second Kalima (Kalima-e-Shahaadat) 70 times.
Kalima Shaadat: "Ashadu Anlaa ilaaha illal Lahu Wa Ash Hadu Anna Mohammadan Abduhu Wa Rasoolohu".
Benefit: The reward of this namaaz is freedom from the punishment of the grave.
4) Recite Surah Dukhan. Allah Willing (Insha’Allah) they will be granted freedom from the punishment of grave.
5) Recite Surah Fath seven times. Beneficial for the fulfillment of desires and wishes.
27th Night of Ramadhan-Ul-Mubarak - 4th night of Laitlat-Ul-Qadr
1) In the 27th night, pray 12 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’) (3 set of 4 raka’ each)
In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR once and Surah IIKHLAS fifteen times. After salah recite any Astaghfar 70 times.
Astaghfar: "Allah Hummagh Fir Li Wa Tub A'laiyya Inna Ka Innta Tawwabur Raheem" OR "Astaghfirullah Rabbi Min Kulli Zambiyon Wa Atoobu ilaiyh"
Benefit: Inhsa Allah, Allah tala will give sawab equal to Ibadah of Ambiya Karam's (Messengers of Allah) Ibadah.
2) Pray two cycles of ritual prayer (raka’).
In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA recite Surah QADR 3 times and Surah IKHLAS 27 times, and plead to Allah for the forgiveness of sins.
Benefit: Allah Willing (Insha’Allah), the Allah Almighty will forgive all their previous sins.
3) Pray four cycles of ritual prayer (raka’). (2 sets of 2 raka’ each).
In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah TAKAASUR once and Surah IKHLAS three times.
Benefit: Whoever offers this salah, they will be saved from hardship at the time of death, and Allah Willing (Insha’Allah), they will be freed from the punishment of the grave.
4) Pray two cycles of ritual prayer (raka’).
In each raka’, after Surahh FATIHA, recite Surah IKHLAS seven times and after salah recite this seventy times:
"ASTAGHFIRUL LAA HAL AZEEMAL LAZEE LAA ILAAHA ILLA HUWAL HAIY YUL QAYYOOMU WA ATOOBU ILAIH"
Benfit: Before the person gets up from the praying area, Allah Almighty will pardon them and their parents, and Allah Almighty will Command the angels to adorn the Paradise for them and it is said that they will not die until they see the blessings (ne'mat) of Paradise with their own eyes.
5) Pray two cycles of ritual prayer (raka’).
In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah ALAM’NASHRAH once, Surah IKHLAS three times and after salah, recite Surah QADR 27 times.
Benefit: Effecive for unlimited Sawab of Ibadah.
6) Pray four cycles of ritual prayer (raka’). (1 set of 4 raka’).
In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA' recite Surah QADR three times and Surah IKHLAS fifty times and after completion of this salah (namaaz), recite this once in prostration (sajdah):
"SUBHAAN ALLAAHI WAL HAMDU LILLAAHI WALAA ILAAHA ILLAL LAAHU WALLAA HU AKBAR"
Benefit: After that whatever wish one may have, either worldly or religious, may be pleased. Allah Willing (Insha’Allah), their supplication will be fulfilled.
7) In this night, recite Surah Mulk 7 times. It is good for freeing from punishment.
29th Night of Ramadhan-Ul-Mubarak - 5th night of Laitlat-Ul-Qadr
1) Pray four cycles of ritual prayer (raka’). (2 sets of 2 raka’ each).
In every raka’, after Surah FATIHA recite Surah QADR once and Surahh IKHLAS three times. After salah, recite Surah ALAM’NASHRAH 70 times.
Benefit: Efective for the completion of Imaan.
2) Offer four cycles of ritual prayer (raka’). (2 sets of 2 raka’ each).
In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR once and Surah IKHLAS five times. After salah, recite SALAAT-O-SALAAM (Darood Sharif) 100 times
Benefit: Effective for forgiveness of sins.
3) Recite Surah WAAQIAH seven times. Beneficial for increase in Rizq.
In any night of RAMAZAN-UL-MUBARAK, after taraavih recite Surah QADR seven times. Allah Willing (Insha’Allah), the one who does so, will be saved from all troubles and afflictions.
On this great night it's of great benefit to perform Salat-Ul-Tasbih.
In this night (27th of Ramadan), the Holy Quran was sent down from LAUHUL MAHFUZ (the Preserved Tablet) to the earth. Messenger of ALLAH (Blessings of Allah and peace be on him) told us to search for Shab-e-Qadr in the odd numbered nights, in the last ten days of Ramadan. So, the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th or 29th night of Ramadan could be Shab-e-Qadr.
Hazrat Aisha Radiallah Anha stated that Rasool Allah peace be upon him said, "Look for Lailat-Ul-Qadr in the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadhan." (Bukhari)
Hazrat Aisha Radiallah Anha stated that as much Rasool Allah peace be upon him tried (Ibadat) in the last Ashra (ten days) of Ramadhan, did not try in any of the Ashra." (Muslim)
Hazrat Aisha Radiallah Anha stated that I asked Rasool Allah peace be upon him, "If I find Lailatul Qadar then what should I do? HE peace be upon him said, recite this Dua."ALLAH HUMMA INNAKA A’FUWUN TOHIBBUL AFWA FA’AFU ANNI" (Tirmidhi)
Please take advantage of this night, from sunset till sunrise. Offer nawafil (prayers), recite QUR'AAN, do repent (Istaghfar), and Pray for pardon, recite many many Salawat (Darood Sharif & Salaam) and make benediction (Dua'as).
Special DU’AA of Lailatul QADR:
"ALLAH HUMMA INNAKA A’FUVUN TOHIB BUL AFVA FA’AFU ANNI" (Tirmidhi)
"O Allah! You are the Forgiver and You like forgiving so forgive me”
21st Night of Ramadhan-Ul-Mubarak - 1st night of Laitlat-Ul-Qadr
1) Pray 4 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’t) (2 cycles of 2 raka' eaAch).In each raka', after Surah FATIHA recite Surah QADR (Inna anzalna .. )once and Surah IKHLAS (Qul-hu-wal-lah..) once. After completion recite SALAAT-O-SALAAM (Durood Sharif) seventy (70) times.
Benefit: Insha Allah, Angels will pray for forgivenss for that person.
2) Offer 2 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’t)
In each raka', after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR once and Surah IKHLAS three times. After completion of this salah, recite any Astaghfar seventy times.
Astaghfar: "Allah Hummagh Fir Li Wa Tub A'laiyya Inna Ka Innta Tawwabur Raheem" OR "Astaghfirullah Rabbi Min Kulli Zambiyon Wa Atoobu ilaiyh"
Benefit: Effective for forgivness of sins.
3) In this night (21st), recite Surah QADR 21 times.
23rd Night of Ramadhan-Ul-Mubarak - 2nd night of Laitlat-Ul-Qadr
1) Offer 4 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’t) (2 sets of 2 raka’ each)
In each raka', after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR once and Surah IKHLAS three times.
Benefit: Effective for forgivness of sins.
2) Offer 8 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’) (4 sets of 2 raka’ each)
In each raka', after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR and Surah IKHLAS once. After completion of this salah (namaaz) recite the third kalima (Kalima Tamjeed) 70 times. After that, plead to Allah Almighty for forgiveness of sins.
Kalima Tamjeed: "Subhan Allahi Wal Hamdu Lillahi Wa La ilaaha illal laho Walla Hu Akbar.Wala Haowla Wala Quwwata illa Billa Hil Aliyil Azeem".
Benefit: Allah Willing (Insha’Allah), Allah will forgive whoever performs this prayer
3) In the 23rd night recite Surah YAASEEN once and Surah RAHMAAN once.
25th Night of Ramadhan-Ul-Mubarak - 3rd night of Laitlat-Ul-Qadr
1) In this night offer 4 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’t) (2 sets of 2 raka’ each)
After Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR one time and Surah IKHLAS five times in each raka’. After completion of this salat recite the first Kalima Tayyab 100 times.
Kalima Tayyab: "Laa ilaaha illal Laho Mohammadur Rasoolullah".
Benifit: Insha Allah, Allah Tala will give him/her unlimited Sawab (good Deeds)
2) Offer 4 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’) (2 sets of 2 raka’ each)
In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR three times and Surah IKHLAS three times. After completion of this salah, recite any Astaghfar 70 times.
Astaghfar: "Allah Hummagh Fir Li Wa Tub A'laiyya Inna Ka Innta Tawwabur Raheem" OR "Astaghfirullah Rabbi Min Kulli Zambiyon Wa Atoobu ilaiyh"
Benefit: This salat is good for the pardoning of sins.
3.Offer two cycles of ritual prayer (raka’).
In each raka', after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR once and Surah IKHLAS fifteen times. After Salat, recite the second Kalima (Kalima-e-Shahaadat) 70 times.
Kalima Shaadat: "Ashadu Anlaa ilaaha illal Lahu Wa Ash Hadu Anna Mohammadan Abduhu Wa Rasoolohu".
Benefit: The reward of this namaaz is freedom from the punishment of the grave.
4) Recite Surah Dukhan. Allah Willing (Insha’Allah) they will be granted freedom from the punishment of grave.
5) Recite Surah Fath seven times. Beneficial for the fulfillment of desires and wishes.
27th Night of Ramadhan-Ul-Mubarak - 4th night of Laitlat-Ul-Qadr
1) In the 27th night, pray 12 cycles of ritual prayer (raka’) (3 set of 4 raka’ each)
In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR once and Surah IIKHLAS fifteen times. After salah recite any Astaghfar 70 times.
Astaghfar: "Allah Hummagh Fir Li Wa Tub A'laiyya Inna Ka Innta Tawwabur Raheem" OR "Astaghfirullah Rabbi Min Kulli Zambiyon Wa Atoobu ilaiyh"
Benefit: Inhsa Allah, Allah tala will give sawab equal to Ibadah of Ambiya Karam's (Messengers of Allah) Ibadah.
2) Pray two cycles of ritual prayer (raka’).
In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA recite Surah QADR 3 times and Surah IKHLAS 27 times, and plead to Allah for the forgiveness of sins.
Benefit: Allah Willing (Insha’Allah), the Allah Almighty will forgive all their previous sins.
3) Pray four cycles of ritual prayer (raka’). (2 sets of 2 raka’ each).
In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah TAKAASUR once and Surah IKHLAS three times.
Benefit: Whoever offers this salah, they will be saved from hardship at the time of death, and Allah Willing (Insha’Allah), they will be freed from the punishment of the grave.
4) Pray two cycles of ritual prayer (raka’).
In each raka’, after Surahh FATIHA, recite Surah IKHLAS seven times and after salah recite this seventy times:
"ASTAGHFIRUL LAA HAL AZEEMAL LAZEE LAA ILAAHA ILLA HUWAL HAIY YUL QAYYOOMU WA ATOOBU ILAIH"
Benfit: Before the person gets up from the praying area, Allah Almighty will pardon them and their parents, and Allah Almighty will Command the angels to adorn the Paradise for them and it is said that they will not die until they see the blessings (ne'mat) of Paradise with their own eyes.
5) Pray two cycles of ritual prayer (raka’).
In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah ALAM’NASHRAH once, Surah IKHLAS three times and after salah, recite Surah QADR 27 times.
Benefit: Effecive for unlimited Sawab of Ibadah.
6) Pray four cycles of ritual prayer (raka’). (1 set of 4 raka’).
In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA' recite Surah QADR three times and Surah IKHLAS fifty times and after completion of this salah (namaaz), recite this once in prostration (sajdah):
"SUBHAAN ALLAAHI WAL HAMDU LILLAAHI WALAA ILAAHA ILLAL LAAHU WALLAA HU AKBAR"
Benefit: After that whatever wish one may have, either worldly or religious, may be pleased. Allah Willing (Insha’Allah), their supplication will be fulfilled.
7) In this night, recite Surah Mulk 7 times. It is good for freeing from punishment.
29th Night of Ramadhan-Ul-Mubarak - 5th night of Laitlat-Ul-Qadr
1) Pray four cycles of ritual prayer (raka’). (2 sets of 2 raka’ each).
In every raka’, after Surah FATIHA recite Surah QADR once and Surahh IKHLAS three times. After salah, recite Surah ALAM’NASHRAH 70 times.
Benefit: Efective for the completion of Imaan.
2) Offer four cycles of ritual prayer (raka’). (2 sets of 2 raka’ each).
In each raka’, after Surah FATIHA, recite Surah QADR once and Surah IKHLAS five times. After salah, recite SALAAT-O-SALAAM (Darood Sharif) 100 times
Benefit: Effective for forgiveness of sins.
3) Recite Surah WAAQIAH seven times. Beneficial for increase in Rizq.
In any night of RAMAZAN-UL-MUBARAK, after taraavih recite Surah QADR seven times. Allah Willing (Insha’Allah), the one who does so, will be saved from all troubles and afflictions.
On this great night it's of great benefit to perform Salat-Ul-Tasbih.
Friday, July 27, 2012
Advice for menstruating sisters during Ramadan
Question: If a sister is unable to fast the last 10 days of Ramadan, what are somethings she is permissible to do since those last ten 10 are sacred?
Answer: Assalamu alaykum
Ramadan Mubarak.
AlhamduLlilah, it’s very inspiring to hear that sisters are concerned about continuing acts of worship during their menstrual cycles.
Menstruation Is Not A Punishment
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about menstruation, “Verily this is a matter Allah has written upon the girls of Prophet Adam (Allah bless him)…” [Bukhari]
Those who claim that menstruation is like a punishment because one cannot perform acts of worship are severely mistaken. On the contrary, there are many forms of worship that a woman can do while menstruating aside from what is legally prohibited.
Allah says in the Quran, “He who obeyeth Allah and His messenger, and feareth Allah, and keepeth duty (unto Him): such indeed are the victorious.” [Nur: 52]
Allah Most High has commanded menstruating women and women in a state of lochia (post-natal bleeding) to refrain from the ritual prayer and ritual fasting. Thus, if a menstruating woman fulfills this command with the intention to submit to Allah’s order, she is actually worshipping Allah the entire time that she refrains from the ritual prayer and ritual fasting. As one of my teachers in Damascus said, “Her praying while pure is worship (ibada) and her refraining from prayer while menstruating is worship. All of it is worship”
Therefore, there’s nothing dreadful or awful about menstruation or lochia (post-natal bleeding), rather it is a person’s attitude towards it.
Suggested Acts of Worship During Menstruation in Ramadan
These suggestions are not specific to the last ten nights of Ramadan but to the month in general. Furthermore, they also apply to women in a state of lochia (post-natal bleeding).
1. Listen to the Quran
“The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the Criterion (of right and wrong).” [Baqara: 185]
She should listen to the Quran as much as possible, while simultaneously pondering about its deep meanings. She should cry when she hears about the eternal punishment, hoping that Allah will save her from its blazing flames. She should feel happiness and joy when hearing about the bounties of Paradise and desire that Allah will make her of those that will be honored to experience its bliss. If she cannot cry, then she should force herself to cry, allowing her entire soul to express its complete pleasure of being from those who follow the truth and are rightly guided.
In the Hanafi madhhab, it is prohibited to actually touch the mushaf (bound Arabic Quran), including its insides, its page margins and its cover (if it is attached to the mushaf). It is also prohibited to recite the Quran, which means to move one’s lips while producing sound. [ibn Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar] It is sinful to touch a translation or a tafsir of the Quran while menstruating.
It is permissible to read the Arabic script or its translation with her eyes, such as on a computer screen or other electronic devices. [ibn Abidin, Manhal al-Waridin] She can also read the Quran in her heart.
2. Make Much Remembrance (Dhikr) of Allah
“…and men who remember Allah much and women who remember - Allah hath prepared for them forgiveness and a vast reward.” [The Confederates: 35]
She should use every free moment to exalt the Lord of the Worlds. There are many related dhikrs that a woman can recite. She should buy a supplication (dua) book and recite its invocations as it will strengthen her relationship with her Lord and draw her nearer to Him with each word uttered.
If the invocations include Quranic verses that contain the meanings of supplication, praise, remembrance, or protection, it is permissible to say these during a state of menstruation upon the condition that it is read with this intention. [Shurunbulali, Maraqi al-Falah; Tahtawi, Hashiyyat al-Tahtawi] Some examples are reading Surat al-Ikhlas, Surat al-Falaq, Surat al-Nas, Surat al-Fatiha, and Ayat al-Kursi with the intention of supplication, not reciting the Quran.
In the Hanafi madhhab, it is an overall recommendation that a menstruating woman make ablution (wudu) for each prayer time, sit in her usual place of worship, and make dhikr for the time it takes for her to normally pray so that she does not lose her habit of worship while in this state. [ibn Abidin, Manhal al-Waridin]
3. Send Blessings on the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace)
Allah says in the Quran, “Lo! Allah and His angels shower blessings on the Prophet. O ye who believe! Ask blessings on him and salute him with a worthy salutation.” [The Confederates: 56]
She seeks the tremendous benefit of sending blessings and praise (salawat) upon the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) because it is an act that increases her love for him (Allah bless him and give him peace). She reflects upon his nature and expresses her gratitude to Allah for sending mankind such a wonderful example of mercy and piety. She longs to meet him and to drink from his pond (hawd) on the Day of Judgment. She intends to follow him and emulate his character (Allah bless him and give him peace).
4. Give Generously In Charity
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “The best charity is that given in Ramadan.” [al-Tirmidhi]
She should reach into her pocket and give whatever she can without hesitation. She longs to give to those in need, and she thanks Allah for bestowing upon her the financial ability to help others. She refrains from praising herself for the charity she offers but rather, she donates her wealth out of pure submission to the Divine.
5. Be Kind to Others, Including Spouses & Family Members
The Companion Salman al-Farasi related that the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about Ramadan in a sermon given on the last day of Sha’ban, “…It is a month of patience and the reward of patience is Paradise…” [Sahih ibn Khuzayma; Sayuti, al-Jami’ al-Kabir; Bayhaqi, Shu`ab al-Iman]
She uses this time to rebuild and mend any broken relationships. She showers her loved ones with words and acts of gentleness, compassion, consideration, patience, and love. She doesn’t use her menstruation as an ‘excuse’ to wrong others and resort to bad temper. She forgives those that have mistreated or offended her. She prays that Allah will forgive her if she wronged others. She keeps the company of the righteous and those who will increase her in piety.
6. Make Dua for the Ummah
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about Ramadan, “Verily, Allah frees people (from the Hellfire) in every day and every night and for each Muslim among them is a supplication which will be answered.” [Ahmad]
She supplicates for the entire ummah—praying for their forgiveness, their well-being, and Allah’s mercy upon them. She can say a dua related by the scholar al-Khurkhi:
Allahumma Aslih Ummat Muhammad. Allahumma Farrij ‘an Ummat Muhammad. Allahumma Irham Ummat Muhammad
“O Allah, improve the community of Muhammad. O Allah, relieve the community of Muhammad. O Allah, have mercy on the community of Muhammad.”
[al-Asbahani, Riyada al-Abdan]
7. Make Much Repentance
The Companion Salman al-Farasi related that the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about Ramadan in a sermon given on the last day of Sha’ban, “…It is a month (in which) the first of it is mercy, and the middle of it is forgiveness, and the last of it is pardon from the Fire…” [Sahih ibn Khuzayma; Sayuti, al-Jami’ al-Kabir; Bayhaqi, Shi’b al-Iman]
She asks Allah to pardon her, cover her sins, and save her from the Hell-fire. She begs for forgiveness and realizes her absolute neediness to His mercy. She wakes up in the middle of the night, even though she is menstruating, and repents in a time when Allah promises to forgive.
8. Feed Fasting People
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) also said in the aforementioned sermon, “…Whoever feeds a fasting person in (the month of Ramadan), for him is the forgiveness of his sins and freeing his neck from the Fire…” [Sahih ibn Khuzayma; Sayuti, al-Jami’ al-Kabir; Bayhaqi, Shi’b al-Iman]
She hosts her relatives, friends or community members for iftar. She tries to accommodate her guests in the best manner possible but avoids excessiveness. She realizes that feeding fasting people is an act of worship and it is not an opportunity to seek compliments for her cooking and hospitality.
9. Show Allah Goodness
The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “Ramadan has come to you. (It is) a month of blessing, in which Allah covers you with blessing, for He sends down Mercy, decreases sins and answers prayers. In it, Allah looks at your competition (in good deeds), and boasts about you to His angels. So show Allah goodness from yourselves, for the unfortunate one is he who is deprived in (this month) of the mercy of Allah.” [Tabarani]
She utilizes her free time to help and assist others with their needs. She is a means for them to achieve benefit in this great month. She wakes her family up to perform worship in the night and encourages them to do extra works of obedience. She sacrifices her own time to volunteer at her Islamic community center or local charities. She helps babysit a mother’s child so that the mother can attend tarawih. She does whatever she can to aid the believers in completing the good with excellence.
She avoids looking at and listening to what is unlawful. Instead, she directs her eyes, ears, and spirit to that which is advantageous for her Hereafter. She attends classes, webinars, and lectures given by recognized scholars in an effort to surround herself with people of sound religion. She seeks beneficial knowledge and aims to implement what she’s learned in her own life. She actively pursues furthering her understanding of Islam and affirms her faith every time the wisdom of this great religion touches her heart.
10. Carry Out Any Righteous Deed
Abu Huraira (Allah be pleased with him) reported that Allah’s Messenger (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of the heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained” [Bukhari, Muslim]
She realizes that now is the perfect time to carry out any act of good. The devils are chained and there is nothing to hold her back from committing herself to absolute slavehood to her Lord.
Answer: Assalamu alaykum
Ramadan Mubarak.
AlhamduLlilah, it’s very inspiring to hear that sisters are concerned about continuing acts of worship during their menstrual cycles.
Menstruation Is Not A Punishment
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about menstruation, “Verily this is a matter Allah has written upon the girls of Prophet Adam (Allah bless him)…” [Bukhari]
Those who claim that menstruation is like a punishment because one cannot perform acts of worship are severely mistaken. On the contrary, there are many forms of worship that a woman can do while menstruating aside from what is legally prohibited.
Allah says in the Quran, “He who obeyeth Allah and His messenger, and feareth Allah, and keepeth duty (unto Him): such indeed are the victorious.” [Nur: 52]
Allah Most High has commanded menstruating women and women in a state of lochia (post-natal bleeding) to refrain from the ritual prayer and ritual fasting. Thus, if a menstruating woman fulfills this command with the intention to submit to Allah’s order, she is actually worshipping Allah the entire time that she refrains from the ritual prayer and ritual fasting. As one of my teachers in Damascus said, “Her praying while pure is worship (ibada) and her refraining from prayer while menstruating is worship. All of it is worship”
Therefore, there’s nothing dreadful or awful about menstruation or lochia (post-natal bleeding), rather it is a person’s attitude towards it.
Suggested Acts of Worship During Menstruation in Ramadan
These suggestions are not specific to the last ten nights of Ramadan but to the month in general. Furthermore, they also apply to women in a state of lochia (post-natal bleeding).
1. Listen to the Quran
“The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the Criterion (of right and wrong).” [Baqara: 185]
She should listen to the Quran as much as possible, while simultaneously pondering about its deep meanings. She should cry when she hears about the eternal punishment, hoping that Allah will save her from its blazing flames. She should feel happiness and joy when hearing about the bounties of Paradise and desire that Allah will make her of those that will be honored to experience its bliss. If she cannot cry, then she should force herself to cry, allowing her entire soul to express its complete pleasure of being from those who follow the truth and are rightly guided.
In the Hanafi madhhab, it is prohibited to actually touch the mushaf (bound Arabic Quran), including its insides, its page margins and its cover (if it is attached to the mushaf). It is also prohibited to recite the Quran, which means to move one’s lips while producing sound. [ibn Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar] It is sinful to touch a translation or a tafsir of the Quran while menstruating.
It is permissible to read the Arabic script or its translation with her eyes, such as on a computer screen or other electronic devices. [ibn Abidin, Manhal al-Waridin] She can also read the Quran in her heart.
2. Make Much Remembrance (Dhikr) of Allah
“…and men who remember Allah much and women who remember - Allah hath prepared for them forgiveness and a vast reward.” [The Confederates: 35]
She should use every free moment to exalt the Lord of the Worlds. There are many related dhikrs that a woman can recite. She should buy a supplication (dua) book and recite its invocations as it will strengthen her relationship with her Lord and draw her nearer to Him with each word uttered.
If the invocations include Quranic verses that contain the meanings of supplication, praise, remembrance, or protection, it is permissible to say these during a state of menstruation upon the condition that it is read with this intention. [Shurunbulali, Maraqi al-Falah; Tahtawi, Hashiyyat al-Tahtawi] Some examples are reading Surat al-Ikhlas, Surat al-Falaq, Surat al-Nas, Surat al-Fatiha, and Ayat al-Kursi with the intention of supplication, not reciting the Quran.
In the Hanafi madhhab, it is an overall recommendation that a menstruating woman make ablution (wudu) for each prayer time, sit in her usual place of worship, and make dhikr for the time it takes for her to normally pray so that she does not lose her habit of worship while in this state. [ibn Abidin, Manhal al-Waridin]
3. Send Blessings on the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace)
Allah says in the Quran, “Lo! Allah and His angels shower blessings on the Prophet. O ye who believe! Ask blessings on him and salute him with a worthy salutation.” [The Confederates: 56]
She seeks the tremendous benefit of sending blessings and praise (salawat) upon the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) because it is an act that increases her love for him (Allah bless him and give him peace). She reflects upon his nature and expresses her gratitude to Allah for sending mankind such a wonderful example of mercy and piety. She longs to meet him and to drink from his pond (hawd) on the Day of Judgment. She intends to follow him and emulate his character (Allah bless him and give him peace).
4. Give Generously In Charity
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “The best charity is that given in Ramadan.” [al-Tirmidhi]
She should reach into her pocket and give whatever she can without hesitation. She longs to give to those in need, and she thanks Allah for bestowing upon her the financial ability to help others. She refrains from praising herself for the charity she offers but rather, she donates her wealth out of pure submission to the Divine.
5. Be Kind to Others, Including Spouses & Family Members
The Companion Salman al-Farasi related that the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about Ramadan in a sermon given on the last day of Sha’ban, “…It is a month of patience and the reward of patience is Paradise…” [Sahih ibn Khuzayma; Sayuti, al-Jami’ al-Kabir; Bayhaqi, Shu`ab al-Iman]
She uses this time to rebuild and mend any broken relationships. She showers her loved ones with words and acts of gentleness, compassion, consideration, patience, and love. She doesn’t use her menstruation as an ‘excuse’ to wrong others and resort to bad temper. She forgives those that have mistreated or offended her. She prays that Allah will forgive her if she wronged others. She keeps the company of the righteous and those who will increase her in piety.
6. Make Dua for the Ummah
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about Ramadan, “Verily, Allah frees people (from the Hellfire) in every day and every night and for each Muslim among them is a supplication which will be answered.” [Ahmad]
She supplicates for the entire ummah—praying for their forgiveness, their well-being, and Allah’s mercy upon them. She can say a dua related by the scholar al-Khurkhi:
Allahumma Aslih Ummat Muhammad. Allahumma Farrij ‘an Ummat Muhammad. Allahumma Irham Ummat Muhammad
“O Allah, improve the community of Muhammad. O Allah, relieve the community of Muhammad. O Allah, have mercy on the community of Muhammad.”
[al-Asbahani, Riyada al-Abdan]
7. Make Much Repentance
The Companion Salman al-Farasi related that the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about Ramadan in a sermon given on the last day of Sha’ban, “…It is a month (in which) the first of it is mercy, and the middle of it is forgiveness, and the last of it is pardon from the Fire…” [Sahih ibn Khuzayma; Sayuti, al-Jami’ al-Kabir; Bayhaqi, Shi’b al-Iman]
She asks Allah to pardon her, cover her sins, and save her from the Hell-fire. She begs for forgiveness and realizes her absolute neediness to His mercy. She wakes up in the middle of the night, even though she is menstruating, and repents in a time when Allah promises to forgive.
8. Feed Fasting People
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) also said in the aforementioned sermon, “…Whoever feeds a fasting person in (the month of Ramadan), for him is the forgiveness of his sins and freeing his neck from the Fire…” [Sahih ibn Khuzayma; Sayuti, al-Jami’ al-Kabir; Bayhaqi, Shi’b al-Iman]
She hosts her relatives, friends or community members for iftar. She tries to accommodate her guests in the best manner possible but avoids excessiveness. She realizes that feeding fasting people is an act of worship and it is not an opportunity to seek compliments for her cooking and hospitality.
9. Show Allah Goodness
The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “Ramadan has come to you. (It is) a month of blessing, in which Allah covers you with blessing, for He sends down Mercy, decreases sins and answers prayers. In it, Allah looks at your competition (in good deeds), and boasts about you to His angels. So show Allah goodness from yourselves, for the unfortunate one is he who is deprived in (this month) of the mercy of Allah.” [Tabarani]
She utilizes her free time to help and assist others with their needs. She is a means for them to achieve benefit in this great month. She wakes her family up to perform worship in the night and encourages them to do extra works of obedience. She sacrifices her own time to volunteer at her Islamic community center or local charities. She helps babysit a mother’s child so that the mother can attend tarawih. She does whatever she can to aid the believers in completing the good with excellence.
She avoids looking at and listening to what is unlawful. Instead, she directs her eyes, ears, and spirit to that which is advantageous for her Hereafter. She attends classes, webinars, and lectures given by recognized scholars in an effort to surround herself with people of sound religion. She seeks beneficial knowledge and aims to implement what she’s learned in her own life. She actively pursues furthering her understanding of Islam and affirms her faith every time the wisdom of this great religion touches her heart.
10. Carry Out Any Righteous Deed
Abu Huraira (Allah be pleased with him) reported that Allah’s Messenger (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of the heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained” [Bukhari, Muslim]
She realizes that now is the perfect time to carry out any act of good. The devils are chained and there is nothing to hold her back from committing herself to absolute slavehood to her Lord.
Advice for menstruating sisters during Ramadan
Question: If a sister is unable to fast the last 10 days of Ramadan, what are somethings she is permissible to do since those last ten 10 are sacred?
Answer: Assalamu alaykum
Ramadan Mubarak.
AlhamduLlilah, it’s very inspiring to hear that sisters are concerned about continuing acts of worship during their menstrual cycles.
Menstruation Is Not A Punishment
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about menstruation, “Verily this is a matter Allah has written upon the girls of Prophet Adam (Allah bless him)…” [Bukhari]
Those who claim that menstruation is like a punishment because one cannot perform acts of worship are severely mistaken. On the contrary, there are many forms of worship that a woman can do while menstruating aside from what is legally prohibited.
Allah says in the Quran, “He who obeyeth Allah and His messenger, and feareth Allah, and keepeth duty (unto Him): such indeed are the victorious.” [Nur: 52]
Allah Most High has commanded menstruating women and women in a state of lochia (post-natal bleeding) to refrain from the ritual prayer and ritual fasting. Thus, if a menstruating woman fulfills this command with the intention to submit to Allah’s order, she is actually worshipping Allah the entire time that she refrains from the ritual prayer and ritual fasting. As one of my teachers in Damascus said, “Her praying while pure is worship (ibada) and her refraining from prayer while menstruating is worship. All of it is worship”
Therefore, there’s nothing dreadful or awful about menstruation or lochia (post-natal bleeding), rather it is a person’s attitude towards it.
Suggested Acts of Worship During Menstruation in Ramadan
These suggestions are not specific to the last ten nights of Ramadan but to the month in general. Furthermore, they also apply to women in a state of lochia (post-natal bleeding).
1. Listen to the Quran
“The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the Criterion (of right and wrong).” [Baqara: 185]
She should listen to the Quran as much as possible, while simultaneously pondering about its deep meanings. She should cry when she hears about the eternal punishment, hoping that Allah will save her from its blazing flames. She should feel happiness and joy when hearing about the bounties of Paradise and desire that Allah will make her of those that will be honored to experience its bliss. If she cannot cry, then she should force herself to cry, allowing her entire soul to express its complete pleasure of being from those who follow the truth and are rightly guided.
In the Hanafi madhhab, it is prohibited to actually touch the mushaf (bound Arabic Quran), including its insides, its page margins and its cover (if it is attached to the mushaf). It is also prohibited to recite the Quran, which means to move one’s lips while producing sound. [ibn Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar] It is sinful to touch a translation or a tafsir of the Quran while menstruating.
It is permissible to read the Arabic script or its translation with her eyes, such as on a computer screen or other electronic devices. [ibn Abidin, Manhal al-Waridin] She can also read the Quran in her heart.
2. Make Much Remembrance (Dhikr) of Allah
“…and men who remember Allah much and women who remember - Allah hath prepared for them forgiveness and a vast reward.” [The Confederates: 35]
She should use every free moment to exalt the Lord of the Worlds. There are many related dhikrs that a woman can recite. She should buy a supplication (dua) book and recite its invocations as it will strengthen her relationship with her Lord and draw her nearer to Him with each word uttered.
If the invocations include Quranic verses that contain the meanings of supplication, praise, remembrance, or protection, it is permissible to say these during a state of menstruation upon the condition that it is read with this intention. [Shurunbulali, Maraqi al-Falah; Tahtawi, Hashiyyat al-Tahtawi] Some examples are reading Surat al-Ikhlas, Surat al-Falaq, Surat al-Nas, Surat al-Fatiha, and Ayat al-Kursi with the intention of supplication, not reciting the Quran.
In the Hanafi madhhab, it is an overall recommendation that a menstruating woman make ablution (wudu) for each prayer time, sit in her usual place of worship, and make dhikr for the time it takes for her to normally pray so that she does not lose her habit of worship while in this state. [ibn Abidin, Manhal al-Waridin]
3. Send Blessings on the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace)
Allah says in the Quran, “Lo! Allah and His angels shower blessings on the Prophet. O ye who believe! Ask blessings on him and salute him with a worthy salutation.” [The Confederates: 56]
She seeks the tremendous benefit of sending blessings and praise (salawat) upon the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) because it is an act that increases her love for him (Allah bless him and give him peace). She reflects upon his nature and expresses her gratitude to Allah for sending mankind such a wonderful example of mercy and piety. She longs to meet him and to drink from his pond (hawd) on the Day of Judgment. She intends to follow him and emulate his character (Allah bless him and give him peace).
4. Give Generously In Charity
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “The best charity is that given in Ramadan.” [al-Tirmidhi]
She should reach into her pocket and give whatever she can without hesitation. She longs to give to those in need, and she thanks Allah for bestowing upon her the financial ability to help others. She refrains from praising herself for the charity she offers but rather, she donates her wealth out of pure submission to the Divine.
5. Be Kind to Others, Including Spouses & Family Members
The Companion Salman al-Farasi related that the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about Ramadan in a sermon given on the last day of Sha’ban, “…It is a month of patience and the reward of patience is Paradise…” [Sahih ibn Khuzayma; Sayuti, al-Jami’ al-Kabir; Bayhaqi, Shu`ab al-Iman]
She uses this time to rebuild and mend any broken relationships. She showers her loved ones with words and acts of gentleness, compassion, consideration, patience, and love. She doesn’t use her menstruation as an ‘excuse’ to wrong others and resort to bad temper. She forgives those that have mistreated or offended her. She prays that Allah will forgive her if she wronged others. She keeps the company of the righteous and those who will increase her in piety.
6. Make Dua for the Ummah
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about Ramadan, “Verily, Allah frees people (from the Hellfire) in every day and every night and for each Muslim among them is a supplication which will be answered.” [Ahmad]
She supplicates for the entire ummah—praying for their forgiveness, their well-being, and Allah’s mercy upon them. She can say a dua related by the scholar al-Khurkhi:
Allahumma Aslih Ummat Muhammad. Allahumma Farrij ‘an Ummat Muhammad. Allahumma Irham Ummat Muhammad
“O Allah, improve the community of Muhammad. O Allah, relieve the community of Muhammad. O Allah, have mercy on the community of Muhammad.”
[al-Asbahani, Riyada al-Abdan]
7. Make Much Repentance
The Companion Salman al-Farasi related that the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about Ramadan in a sermon given on the last day of Sha’ban, “…It is a month (in which) the first of it is mercy, and the middle of it is forgiveness, and the last of it is pardon from the Fire…” [Sahih ibn Khuzayma; Sayuti, al-Jami’ al-Kabir; Bayhaqi, Shi’b al-Iman]
She asks Allah to pardon her, cover her sins, and save her from the Hell-fire. She begs for forgiveness and realizes her absolute neediness to His mercy. She wakes up in the middle of the night, even though she is menstruating, and repents in a time when Allah promises to forgive.
8. Feed Fasting People
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) also said in the aforementioned sermon, “…Whoever feeds a fasting person in (the month of Ramadan), for him is the forgiveness of his sins and freeing his neck from the Fire…” [Sahih ibn Khuzayma; Sayuti, al-Jami’ al-Kabir; Bayhaqi, Shi’b al-Iman]
She hosts her relatives, friends or community members for iftar. She tries to accommodate her guests in the best manner possible but avoids excessiveness. She realizes that feeding fasting people is an act of worship and it is not an opportunity to seek compliments for her cooking and hospitality.
9. Show Allah Goodness
The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “Ramadan has come to you. (It is) a month of blessing, in which Allah covers you with blessing, for He sends down Mercy, decreases sins and answers prayers. In it, Allah looks at your competition (in good deeds), and boasts about you to His angels. So show Allah goodness from yourselves, for the unfortunate one is he who is deprived in (this month) of the mercy of Allah.” [Tabarani]
She utilizes her free time to help and assist others with their needs. She is a means for them to achieve benefit in this great month. She wakes her family up to perform worship in the night and encourages them to do extra works of obedience. She sacrifices her own time to volunteer at her Islamic community center or local charities. She helps babysit a mother’s child so that the mother can attend tarawih. She does whatever she can to aid the believers in completing the good with excellence.
She avoids looking at and listening to what is unlawful. Instead, she directs her eyes, ears, and spirit to that which is advantageous for her Hereafter. She attends classes, webinars, and lectures given by recognized scholars in an effort to surround herself with people of sound religion. She seeks beneficial knowledge and aims to implement what she’s learned in her own life. She actively pursues furthering her understanding of Islam and affirms her faith every time the wisdom of this great religion touches her heart.
10. Carry Out Any Righteous Deed
Abu Huraira (Allah be pleased with him) reported that Allah’s Messenger (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of the heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained” [Bukhari, Muslim]
She realizes that now is the perfect time to carry out any act of good. The devils are chained and there is nothing to hold her back from committing herself to absolute slavehood to her Lord.
Answer: Assalamu alaykum
Ramadan Mubarak.
AlhamduLlilah, it’s very inspiring to hear that sisters are concerned about continuing acts of worship during their menstrual cycles.
Menstruation Is Not A Punishment
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about menstruation, “Verily this is a matter Allah has written upon the girls of Prophet Adam (Allah bless him)…” [Bukhari]
Those who claim that menstruation is like a punishment because one cannot perform acts of worship are severely mistaken. On the contrary, there are many forms of worship that a woman can do while menstruating aside from what is legally prohibited.
Allah says in the Quran, “He who obeyeth Allah and His messenger, and feareth Allah, and keepeth duty (unto Him): such indeed are the victorious.” [Nur: 52]
Allah Most High has commanded menstruating women and women in a state of lochia (post-natal bleeding) to refrain from the ritual prayer and ritual fasting. Thus, if a menstruating woman fulfills this command with the intention to submit to Allah’s order, she is actually worshipping Allah the entire time that she refrains from the ritual prayer and ritual fasting. As one of my teachers in Damascus said, “Her praying while pure is worship (ibada) and her refraining from prayer while menstruating is worship. All of it is worship”
Therefore, there’s nothing dreadful or awful about menstruation or lochia (post-natal bleeding), rather it is a person’s attitude towards it.
Suggested Acts of Worship During Menstruation in Ramadan
These suggestions are not specific to the last ten nights of Ramadan but to the month in general. Furthermore, they also apply to women in a state of lochia (post-natal bleeding).
1. Listen to the Quran
“The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance, and the Criterion (of right and wrong).” [Baqara: 185]
She should listen to the Quran as much as possible, while simultaneously pondering about its deep meanings. She should cry when she hears about the eternal punishment, hoping that Allah will save her from its blazing flames. She should feel happiness and joy when hearing about the bounties of Paradise and desire that Allah will make her of those that will be honored to experience its bliss. If she cannot cry, then she should force herself to cry, allowing her entire soul to express its complete pleasure of being from those who follow the truth and are rightly guided.
In the Hanafi madhhab, it is prohibited to actually touch the mushaf (bound Arabic Quran), including its insides, its page margins and its cover (if it is attached to the mushaf). It is also prohibited to recite the Quran, which means to move one’s lips while producing sound. [ibn Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar] It is sinful to touch a translation or a tafsir of the Quran while menstruating.
It is permissible to read the Arabic script or its translation with her eyes, such as on a computer screen or other electronic devices. [ibn Abidin, Manhal al-Waridin] She can also read the Quran in her heart.
2. Make Much Remembrance (Dhikr) of Allah
“…and men who remember Allah much and women who remember - Allah hath prepared for them forgiveness and a vast reward.” [The Confederates: 35]
She should use every free moment to exalt the Lord of the Worlds. There are many related dhikrs that a woman can recite. She should buy a supplication (dua) book and recite its invocations as it will strengthen her relationship with her Lord and draw her nearer to Him with each word uttered.
If the invocations include Quranic verses that contain the meanings of supplication, praise, remembrance, or protection, it is permissible to say these during a state of menstruation upon the condition that it is read with this intention. [Shurunbulali, Maraqi al-Falah; Tahtawi, Hashiyyat al-Tahtawi] Some examples are reading Surat al-Ikhlas, Surat al-Falaq, Surat al-Nas, Surat al-Fatiha, and Ayat al-Kursi with the intention of supplication, not reciting the Quran.
In the Hanafi madhhab, it is an overall recommendation that a menstruating woman make ablution (wudu) for each prayer time, sit in her usual place of worship, and make dhikr for the time it takes for her to normally pray so that she does not lose her habit of worship while in this state. [ibn Abidin, Manhal al-Waridin]
3. Send Blessings on the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace)
Allah says in the Quran, “Lo! Allah and His angels shower blessings on the Prophet. O ye who believe! Ask blessings on him and salute him with a worthy salutation.” [The Confederates: 56]
She seeks the tremendous benefit of sending blessings and praise (salawat) upon the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) because it is an act that increases her love for him (Allah bless him and give him peace). She reflects upon his nature and expresses her gratitude to Allah for sending mankind such a wonderful example of mercy and piety. She longs to meet him and to drink from his pond (hawd) on the Day of Judgment. She intends to follow him and emulate his character (Allah bless him and give him peace).
4. Give Generously In Charity
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “The best charity is that given in Ramadan.” [al-Tirmidhi]
She should reach into her pocket and give whatever she can without hesitation. She longs to give to those in need, and she thanks Allah for bestowing upon her the financial ability to help others. She refrains from praising herself for the charity she offers but rather, she donates her wealth out of pure submission to the Divine.
5. Be Kind to Others, Including Spouses & Family Members
The Companion Salman al-Farasi related that the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about Ramadan in a sermon given on the last day of Sha’ban, “…It is a month of patience and the reward of patience is Paradise…” [Sahih ibn Khuzayma; Sayuti, al-Jami’ al-Kabir; Bayhaqi, Shu`ab al-Iman]
She uses this time to rebuild and mend any broken relationships. She showers her loved ones with words and acts of gentleness, compassion, consideration, patience, and love. She doesn’t use her menstruation as an ‘excuse’ to wrong others and resort to bad temper. She forgives those that have mistreated or offended her. She prays that Allah will forgive her if she wronged others. She keeps the company of the righteous and those who will increase her in piety.
6. Make Dua for the Ummah
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about Ramadan, “Verily, Allah frees people (from the Hellfire) in every day and every night and for each Muslim among them is a supplication which will be answered.” [Ahmad]
She supplicates for the entire ummah—praying for their forgiveness, their well-being, and Allah’s mercy upon them. She can say a dua related by the scholar al-Khurkhi:
Allahumma Aslih Ummat Muhammad. Allahumma Farrij ‘an Ummat Muhammad. Allahumma Irham Ummat Muhammad
“O Allah, improve the community of Muhammad. O Allah, relieve the community of Muhammad. O Allah, have mercy on the community of Muhammad.”
[al-Asbahani, Riyada al-Abdan]
7. Make Much Repentance
The Companion Salman al-Farasi related that the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said about Ramadan in a sermon given on the last day of Sha’ban, “…It is a month (in which) the first of it is mercy, and the middle of it is forgiveness, and the last of it is pardon from the Fire…” [Sahih ibn Khuzayma; Sayuti, al-Jami’ al-Kabir; Bayhaqi, Shi’b al-Iman]
She asks Allah to pardon her, cover her sins, and save her from the Hell-fire. She begs for forgiveness and realizes her absolute neediness to His mercy. She wakes up in the middle of the night, even though she is menstruating, and repents in a time when Allah promises to forgive.
8. Feed Fasting People
The Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) also said in the aforementioned sermon, “…Whoever feeds a fasting person in (the month of Ramadan), for him is the forgiveness of his sins and freeing his neck from the Fire…” [Sahih ibn Khuzayma; Sayuti, al-Jami’ al-Kabir; Bayhaqi, Shi’b al-Iman]
She hosts her relatives, friends or community members for iftar. She tries to accommodate her guests in the best manner possible but avoids excessiveness. She realizes that feeding fasting people is an act of worship and it is not an opportunity to seek compliments for her cooking and hospitality.
9. Show Allah Goodness
The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “Ramadan has come to you. (It is) a month of blessing, in which Allah covers you with blessing, for He sends down Mercy, decreases sins and answers prayers. In it, Allah looks at your competition (in good deeds), and boasts about you to His angels. So show Allah goodness from yourselves, for the unfortunate one is he who is deprived in (this month) of the mercy of Allah.” [Tabarani]
She utilizes her free time to help and assist others with their needs. She is a means for them to achieve benefit in this great month. She wakes her family up to perform worship in the night and encourages them to do extra works of obedience. She sacrifices her own time to volunteer at her Islamic community center or local charities. She helps babysit a mother’s child so that the mother can attend tarawih. She does whatever she can to aid the believers in completing the good with excellence.
She avoids looking at and listening to what is unlawful. Instead, she directs her eyes, ears, and spirit to that which is advantageous for her Hereafter. She attends classes, webinars, and lectures given by recognized scholars in an effort to surround herself with people of sound religion. She seeks beneficial knowledge and aims to implement what she’s learned in her own life. She actively pursues furthering her understanding of Islam and affirms her faith every time the wisdom of this great religion touches her heart.
10. Carry Out Any Righteous Deed
Abu Huraira (Allah be pleased with him) reported that Allah’s Messenger (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of the heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained” [Bukhari, Muslim]
She realizes that now is the perfect time to carry out any act of good. The devils are chained and there is nothing to hold her back from committing herself to absolute slavehood to her Lord.
Sunday, July 8, 2012
RAMADAN
100 Ramadan Tips and Suggestions
Bismillah-hir Rahman-nir Raheem (in the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful)
[If you like this article, please share it with your friends]
100 Ramadan Tips also available on Youtube
Put Allah first
Remember Allah Much throughout the day and night
LEAVE RAMADAN with HIGHER EEMAAN than ENTERING RAMADAN
Be more patient with those who do not know better
Read more Qur’an AND understand its meaning
Don’t Lie
Don’t Slander others
Don’t Backbite
Don’t swear
Grow a beard and keep it – it’s a strong sunnah
Help your sister in Islam
Help your brother in Islam
Give more in Sadaqah (Charity)
Start to Learn and Follow Islam with Knowledge – don’t just rely on hearsay (even from a religious leader)
Remove yourself from bad company. Join good company
Become a role model Muslim
Pray more than the Fard (Obligatory)
Set achievable goals (eg. read 4 pages of the Qur’an after every salaah)
Try to forgive those who have hurt you
Lower your gaze, especially in the Summer months
Purify your intentions
Start wearing hijaab and abaya
Get rid of bad habits
Stop smoking
Stop Sheesha
Stop fighting and start uniting in Islam
Sisters, wear loose clothing that doesn’t reveal your beauty
Think of those less fortunate than yourselves
Frequent the masjid
Excel in good deeds
Be a good neighbour
Look for Laylatul Qadr on the odd nights of the last 10 days of Ramadan
Ask Allah regularly for His forgiveness and His Mercy
Don’t see yourself as being better than others
Don’t argue. Listen
Change your attitude to one that is better
Stop listening to music
Read about Islam and educate others with a pleasant approach
Memorise more of the Qur’an
Perform I’tikaaf if you are able (seclusion during the last 10 days of Ramadan)
Spread salaams
Look for the good in people rather than the bad
Learn about morals and manners in Islam
Don’t just pray the taraweeh prayers – establish your obligatory prayers
Try to avoid things that are not from Islam (eg. birthdays)
When you feel hungry, think of those who have no food and water
Always think of Allah in everything you do
Establish your day around prayer rather than prayer around your day
Visit your parents and be kind to them
Take suhoor before fasting
Break your fast with a date
Don’t over-eat when you break your fast
Don’t offend others
Always be polite
Be generous to others
Try not to waste your time
Take yourself away from haraam relationships (eg. boyfriend/girlfriend)
Recognise that there is always something you can improve in your character and in your knowledge
Try not to turn down an invitation to an Iftar
Don’t over-exert yourself during the day, so you make yourself weak or longing food and water
Do not engage in physical/sexual relations with your spouse during fasting hours
Fulfil the rights of others (your husband, wife, parents, children, neighbours etc)
Learn the Names & Attributes of Allah
Read about Paradise
Read about the Day of Judgement
Read about Hell
Be grateful to Allah for whatever He Has Given you
Do not commit shirk – if you don’t know what it is, read about it
Make intention to fast BEFORE you start fasting
Make wudhu when you wake up – it will help to fully awaken you
Establish Islamic gatherings
Try to start learning Arabic
Don’t waste food and water
Take part in a family Islamic quiz or contest – or establish one
Tell non-Muslims you are regularly in contact with about fasting
Establish Islam in your house and amongst your family
Rebuild bridges that you had thought you had totally burnt
Follow the advice of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) – eat one third, drink one third and leave one third of your stomach empty
Go for a short walk after Iftar – it’s sunnah to walk after eating
Make a list of duas and memorise them – recite them especially before breaking your fast
Control your tongue
Try to bring khushoo into your prayers
Make intention of what you will try to improve the next day
Remember death
Pray on time
Visit the sick
Give da’wah to others (Muslims as well as non-Muslims)
Don’t show off
Replace fizzy drinks with water and eat healthily (obviously outside of fasting hours)
Establish these Islamic habits with your children and family and friends
Learn about what is going on with other Muslims around the world
Do not fast if your health will seriously suffer from it
Break your fast if there is a danger to your health
Make time for Islam in your life
Don’t procrastinate
Sleep wisely – These next few years (especially in the UK) the fasting day is long, so ensure you get enough rest
Don’t forget to give your fitrana before Eid Salaah
Call for ONE EID – anyone who divides the Ummah should be challenged
Make Eid special so that future generations cherish it
Keep Islamic habits going after Ramadan has ended
Bismillah-hir Rahman-nir Raheem (in the Name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful)
[If you like this article, please share it with your friends]
100 Ramadan Tips also available on Youtube
Put Allah first
Remember Allah Much throughout the day and night
LEAVE RAMADAN with HIGHER EEMAAN than ENTERING RAMADAN
Be more patient with those who do not know better
Read more Qur’an AND understand its meaning
Don’t Lie
Don’t Slander others
Don’t Backbite
Don’t swear
Grow a beard and keep it – it’s a strong sunnah
Help your sister in Islam
Help your brother in Islam
Give more in Sadaqah (Charity)
Start to Learn and Follow Islam with Knowledge – don’t just rely on hearsay (even from a religious leader)
Remove yourself from bad company. Join good company
Become a role model Muslim
Pray more than the Fard (Obligatory)
Set achievable goals (eg. read 4 pages of the Qur’an after every salaah)
Try to forgive those who have hurt you
Lower your gaze, especially in the Summer months
Purify your intentions
Start wearing hijaab and abaya
Get rid of bad habits
Stop smoking
Stop Sheesha
Stop fighting and start uniting in Islam
Sisters, wear loose clothing that doesn’t reveal your beauty
Think of those less fortunate than yourselves
Frequent the masjid
Excel in good deeds
Be a good neighbour
Look for Laylatul Qadr on the odd nights of the last 10 days of Ramadan
Ask Allah regularly for His forgiveness and His Mercy
Don’t see yourself as being better than others
Don’t argue. Listen
Change your attitude to one that is better
Stop listening to music
Read about Islam and educate others with a pleasant approach
Memorise more of the Qur’an
Perform I’tikaaf if you are able (seclusion during the last 10 days of Ramadan)
Spread salaams
Look for the good in people rather than the bad
Learn about morals and manners in Islam
Don’t just pray the taraweeh prayers – establish your obligatory prayers
Try to avoid things that are not from Islam (eg. birthdays)
When you feel hungry, think of those who have no food and water
Always think of Allah in everything you do
Establish your day around prayer rather than prayer around your day
Visit your parents and be kind to them
Take suhoor before fasting
Break your fast with a date
Don’t over-eat when you break your fast
Don’t offend others
Always be polite
Be generous to others
Try not to waste your time
Take yourself away from haraam relationships (eg. boyfriend/girlfriend)
Recognise that there is always something you can improve in your character and in your knowledge
Try not to turn down an invitation to an Iftar
Don’t over-exert yourself during the day, so you make yourself weak or longing food and water
Do not engage in physical/sexual relations with your spouse during fasting hours
Fulfil the rights of others (your husband, wife, parents, children, neighbours etc)
Learn the Names & Attributes of Allah
Read about Paradise
Read about the Day of Judgement
Read about Hell
Be grateful to Allah for whatever He Has Given you
Do not commit shirk – if you don’t know what it is, read about it
Make intention to fast BEFORE you start fasting
Make wudhu when you wake up – it will help to fully awaken you
Establish Islamic gatherings
Try to start learning Arabic
Don’t waste food and water
Take part in a family Islamic quiz or contest – or establish one
Tell non-Muslims you are regularly in contact with about fasting
Establish Islam in your house and amongst your family
Rebuild bridges that you had thought you had totally burnt
Follow the advice of the Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) – eat one third, drink one third and leave one third of your stomach empty
Go for a short walk after Iftar – it’s sunnah to walk after eating
Make a list of duas and memorise them – recite them especially before breaking your fast
Control your tongue
Try to bring khushoo into your prayers
Make intention of what you will try to improve the next day
Remember death
Pray on time
Visit the sick
Give da’wah to others (Muslims as well as non-Muslims)
Don’t show off
Replace fizzy drinks with water and eat healthily (obviously outside of fasting hours)
Establish these Islamic habits with your children and family and friends
Learn about what is going on with other Muslims around the world
Do not fast if your health will seriously suffer from it
Break your fast if there is a danger to your health
Make time for Islam in your life
Don’t procrastinate
Sleep wisely – These next few years (especially in the UK) the fasting day is long, so ensure you get enough rest
Don’t forget to give your fitrana before Eid Salaah
Call for ONE EID – anyone who divides the Ummah should be challenged
Make Eid special so that future generations cherish it
Keep Islamic habits going after Ramadan has ended
Friday, June 15, 2012
Sunday, June 10, 2012
Darood Shareef
O God bless our Master Muhammad (pbuh) who opened what had been closed, and who is the Seal of what had gone before, he who makes the Truth Victorious by the Truth, the guide to thy straight path, and bless his household as is the due of his immense position and grandeur.
Arabic Transliteration :
Allahumma salli ' wa sallim was baarik ala Sayyidina Muhammadilnil-fatihi lima Ughliqa wal khatimi lima sabaqa wan-naa-siril-haqqibil-haqqi wal-hadi ila Sirati-kal-mustaqima sal-lal-lahu 'alayhiwa 'ala alihi wa-ashaabihi haqqa qadrihi wa-miq-da rihil-'azim.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tf9ep6pnuQI
Salatul Fatihi (Selections from the Rimah of al Haj Shaykh Umar Futi)
This is a translation from one of the great pillars of the Ahmadi-Muhammadi-Ibrahimi-Hanifi-Tijani tariqa. He is Shaykh Umar Futi. He is known in Africa as one of the most renowned figures in Islamic History, for he was not just a Khalifa of Shaykh Ahmad Tijani. But also a jihadist He was responsible for at least 313 different jihads in Africa during the 1800's against the British, the French, and idolators.
The name of this book is al Rimah al Hizb al Raheem ala Nuhur al Hizb al Rajeem (The spears of the league of the Merciful thrown at the necks of the league of the accursed) This book is a defense of Tasawwuff, the Awliya especially, and the Tariqa Tijaniya in detail. Here is one of the sections from the chapter on Salatul Fatihi. I am giving it to you to share. You may post it if you like. This is just for information so no fitnah intended. For not much is known about the Tariqa Tijaniya compared to whats known about other turuq. So enjoy.
Please keep in mind that the only way to derive the FULL and COMPLETE blessing of this blessed durood is to be on the the Fuqara of Sidina Shaykh Ahmad Tijani, for he received it from the beloved hands of the Beloved Prophet with its rewards and its requirements. But you are welcome for we are all muslims living in the end of times. May Allah protect us and keep us in his safety. Salaam Alaikum. From sidi Muhammad Hasan.
The invocation of the Opener of what is locked Salatul Fatihi
As for the invocation of the Opener of what is locked (Salatul Fatihi) it has three degrees:
1.an external degree
2.an internal degree
3.the degree of the inmost (batin al batin).
I had intended to provide a complete explanation of it at this point, and to describe its marvels and its wonders. I was prevented from that, however by the fact that most people lack the maturity required for the acquisition of that kind of knowledge. I shall therefore content myself with mentioning some of what is available in Jawahir al Ma’ani, concerning the external degree only.Allah is the Source of enabling grace!
Our Shaykh (Shaykh Ahmad Tijani) has said:
"As for Salatul Fatihi when I asked the Prophet about it, he informed me first of all, that it is worth six hundred thousand invocation of blessing. I also asked him, ‘For each invocation of blessing does one bird fly up toward heaven-that being the bird which has seventy thousand wings, as described in the hadith-or do six hundred thousand birds of that kind fly up each time, and is the reward of their glorification assigned to the invoker of blessing upon the Prophet?’ The Prophet replied: "Six hundred thousand birds of that kind fly up each time."
As for the number of each bird’s tongues, the Shaykh said: "The total number of its tongues is 1,680,000,700,000,000,000,000.000. Each tongue glorifies Allah in seventy thousand languages in a split second, and all of is reward is assigned each time to the invoker of blessing upon the Prophet. This applies to every Salatul Ala Nabi other than Salatul Fatihi. As for the latter, it gives rise, each time, to six hundred thousand birds of the kind described, as previously mentioned."
Our master, then went on to say: "When I asked the Prophet about the authenticity of the hadith:
The invocation of blessing upon him one time, is worth the reward of four hundred military campaigns and every campaign is worth four hundred Pilgrimages.
--The Prophet replied: "It is indeed authentic" I then asked the Prophet about the number of these campaigns: ‘Are four hundred campaigns equivalent to a single offering of Salatul Fatihi, or are four hundred campaigns equivalent to each of the six hundred thousand invocations of blessing?’ The Prophet answered: Salatul Fatihi is worth six hundred thousand invocations of blessings(salatul ala nabi), and each of the six hundred thousand invocations of blessing is worth four hundred campaigns’.
Then he went on to say: "If someone invokes it-Salatul Fatihi; one time, he will receive the reward he would receive if he offered every invocation of blessing ever offered in the universe, by all the jinn, human beings and angels, six hundred thousand times, from the beginning of time until the moment when he utters its invocation.
In other words, it is as if he has offered six hundred thousand times all the invocations ever invoked by al the invokers of blessing, angels, jinn and human beings, every one of those invocations being worth a spouse among the houries, and ten good deeds, and the erasure of ten bad deeds, and promotion by ten degrees. Allah and his angels will also bless him ten times for every invocation of blessing."
Shaykh Ahmad Tijani then said: "Once you have contemplated this with your heart, you will know that no act of worship is equal to a single offering of the Salatul ala Nabi, so how about someone who offers it many times?" What gracious favor he enjoys in the presence of Allah, and this is received EACH time the invocation is offered!
Arabic Transliteration :
Allahumma salli ' wa sallim was baarik ala Sayyidina Muhammadilnil-fatihi lima Ughliqa wal khatimi lima sabaqa wan-naa-siril-haqqibil-haqqi wal-hadi ila Sirati-kal-mustaqima sal-lal-lahu 'alayhiwa 'ala alihi wa-ashaabihi haqqa qadrihi wa-miq-da rihil-'azim.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Tf9ep6pnuQI
Salatul Fatihi (Selections from the Rimah of al Haj Shaykh Umar Futi)
This is a translation from one of the great pillars of the Ahmadi-Muhammadi-Ibrahimi-Hanifi-Tijani tariqa. He is Shaykh Umar Futi. He is known in Africa as one of the most renowned figures in Islamic History, for he was not just a Khalifa of Shaykh Ahmad Tijani. But also a jihadist He was responsible for at least 313 different jihads in Africa during the 1800's against the British, the French, and idolators.
The name of this book is al Rimah al Hizb al Raheem ala Nuhur al Hizb al Rajeem (The spears of the league of the Merciful thrown at the necks of the league of the accursed) This book is a defense of Tasawwuff, the Awliya especially, and the Tariqa Tijaniya in detail. Here is one of the sections from the chapter on Salatul Fatihi. I am giving it to you to share. You may post it if you like. This is just for information so no fitnah intended. For not much is known about the Tariqa Tijaniya compared to whats known about other turuq. So enjoy.
Please keep in mind that the only way to derive the FULL and COMPLETE blessing of this blessed durood is to be on the the Fuqara of Sidina Shaykh Ahmad Tijani, for he received it from the beloved hands of the Beloved Prophet with its rewards and its requirements. But you are welcome for we are all muslims living in the end of times. May Allah protect us and keep us in his safety. Salaam Alaikum. From sidi Muhammad Hasan.
The invocation of the Opener of what is locked Salatul Fatihi
As for the invocation of the Opener of what is locked (Salatul Fatihi) it has three degrees:
1.an external degree
2.an internal degree
3.the degree of the inmost (batin al batin).
I had intended to provide a complete explanation of it at this point, and to describe its marvels and its wonders. I was prevented from that, however by the fact that most people lack the maturity required for the acquisition of that kind of knowledge. I shall therefore content myself with mentioning some of what is available in Jawahir al Ma’ani, concerning the external degree only.Allah is the Source of enabling grace!
Our Shaykh (Shaykh Ahmad Tijani) has said:
"As for Salatul Fatihi when I asked the Prophet about it, he informed me first of all, that it is worth six hundred thousand invocation of blessing. I also asked him, ‘For each invocation of blessing does one bird fly up toward heaven-that being the bird which has seventy thousand wings, as described in the hadith-or do six hundred thousand birds of that kind fly up each time, and is the reward of their glorification assigned to the invoker of blessing upon the Prophet?’ The Prophet replied: "Six hundred thousand birds of that kind fly up each time."
As for the number of each bird’s tongues, the Shaykh said: "The total number of its tongues is 1,680,000,700,000,000,000,000.000. Each tongue glorifies Allah in seventy thousand languages in a split second, and all of is reward is assigned each time to the invoker of blessing upon the Prophet. This applies to every Salatul Ala Nabi other than Salatul Fatihi. As for the latter, it gives rise, each time, to six hundred thousand birds of the kind described, as previously mentioned."
Our master, then went on to say: "When I asked the Prophet about the authenticity of the hadith:
The invocation of blessing upon him one time, is worth the reward of four hundred military campaigns and every campaign is worth four hundred Pilgrimages.
--The Prophet replied: "It is indeed authentic" I then asked the Prophet about the number of these campaigns: ‘Are four hundred campaigns equivalent to a single offering of Salatul Fatihi, or are four hundred campaigns equivalent to each of the six hundred thousand invocations of blessing?’ The Prophet answered: Salatul Fatihi is worth six hundred thousand invocations of blessings(salatul ala nabi), and each of the six hundred thousand invocations of blessing is worth four hundred campaigns’.
Then he went on to say: "If someone invokes it-Salatul Fatihi; one time, he will receive the reward he would receive if he offered every invocation of blessing ever offered in the universe, by all the jinn, human beings and angels, six hundred thousand times, from the beginning of time until the moment when he utters its invocation.
In other words, it is as if he has offered six hundred thousand times all the invocations ever invoked by al the invokers of blessing, angels, jinn and human beings, every one of those invocations being worth a spouse among the houries, and ten good deeds, and the erasure of ten bad deeds, and promotion by ten degrees. Allah and his angels will also bless him ten times for every invocation of blessing."
Shaykh Ahmad Tijani then said: "Once you have contemplated this with your heart, you will know that no act of worship is equal to a single offering of the Salatul ala Nabi, so how about someone who offers it many times?" What gracious favor he enjoys in the presence of Allah, and this is received EACH time the invocation is offered!
Thursday, May 3, 2012
Benifits of early marriage
Marrying at an early Age and Its Benefits
by Shaykh Fowzan
Taken from: Islaam's Solution For The Problems Facing Todays Youth, Pgs. 44-48
From among the benefits of getting married at an early age is the obtaining of children, which make the youth delighted at their presence.
Allah says:
And those who say: “Our Lord! Bestow on us from our wives and our offspring who will be the comfort of our eyes, and make us leaders for the Muttaqûn ” (pious - see V.2:2 and the footnote of V.3:164).” (Al-Furqan 25:74)
Wives and children are a deligh; Allah prmised that marriage brings about pleasure. This pleasure encourages and persuades the youth to take an interest in matrimony.
This is also similar to how Allah mentioned that childred are a share of this world’s beauty.
Wealth and children are the adornment of the life of this world. But the good righteous deeds (five compulsory prayers, deeds of Allâh’s obedience, good and nice talk, remembrance of Allâh with glorification, praises and thanks, etc.), that last, are better with your Lord for rewards and better in respect of hope. (Al-Kahf 18:46)
Therefore, this world is adorned by children. The human-being seeks out adornment the same ways he tries to obtain wealth. Similarly, he craves for children, because they are equal to wealth in their existence. This is in this world. Then in the hereafter, righteous children can benefit their fathers as the Prophet sallalahu ‘alayhe wasallam said:
“Whenever the son of Adam dies his action stop except three: Knowledge that benefits people, a recurring charity, and a righteous child that supplicates for his parent .”
(Hadeeth Saheeh, Collected by Muslim #1631)
The second benefit of matrimony at an early age is that it produces children increasing the Muslim Ummah and Islaamic society. The Prophet sallalahu ‘alayhe wasallam said
“Marry the loving and fertile, for verily I want to have the largest Ummah on the Day of Resurrection.”
[Hadeeth Saheeh, Collected by Abu Dawud in his Sunnan (#2050), An-Nisa'i in his Sunnan As-Sughara (#3227), Al-Hakim in Al-Mustadrak (#2/162), and Ibn Hibban in his Saheeh (#4057), Al-Baghawee in his Sharh-us-Sunnah (#9/17), Al-Bayhaqee in his Sunnan AL-Kubara (#7/81) on the authority of Ma'qal Ibn Yasaar. Graded Saheeh by Al-Albani in his checking of Abu Dawud.]
Great blessing result from marriage. From among them are the ones we previously mentioned. So if these virtues and blessings are explained to the adolscents, then the fallacious problems that hinder people from getting married will disappear.
As for the saying that, getting married at an early age diverts from gaining knowledge and from studying, this is not the case. Rather, the opposite of this is correct because tranquility, peace of mind, and pleasure never cease to be obtained through marriage. These things help the student to reach his goal because, he has peace of mind, and his thoughts are not cluttered due to discomfort and this helps him study.
Now on the other hand abstaining from marriage in reality blocks whatever knowledge he wants to attain, because it is not possible to acquire knowledge in a state of confusion and anxiety. However, if he gets married, his mind is at rest and his soul is at ease. He gets a house to take as a shelter and a wife who relaxes and helps him. These things help him to attain knowledge.
If Allah makes it easy and this marraige becomes a source of comfot to become a relationship, then this is from among the things which make it easy for the student to pursue knowledge. Matrimony does not block the path to knowledge as some believe. For that reason, having children is an enormous blessing in this life and in the next.
As for the statement that marriage at an early age burdens the adolsecent to supply provisions for his children, wife and other responsibilities, this also is not correct. Along with marriage comes blessings and well-being. Matrimony is obedience to Allah and His Messenger sallalahu ‘alayhe wasallam and there is good in every act of obedience. So if the youth gets married following the orders of the Prophet sallalahu ‘alayhe wasallam by seeking the blessings that have been promised with the correct intentions, then this marriage will be a reason for his blessings. The provisions are in the hands of Allah.
Allah, the Mighty and Majestic states:
And no (moving) living creature is there on earth but its provision is due from Allâh. (Hud 11:6)
Consequently, if Allah makes it easy for you to get married, then He will make providing for your children easy.
We provide sustenance for you and for them. (Al-An’am 6:151)
Marriage does not burden the young man above his ability as some of the people think. Marriage brings benefits and blessings. Matrimony is a necessary Sunnah of Allah for the human-being. Matrimony is not a horrible nightmare. It is only a door from the doors of righteousness for the person with the correct intention.
As for the excuses about the obstacles placed in the path of marriage, then this is from their evil behavior. Marriage in itself does not require such things as a plump dowry, parties which amount to more than required or other expenses with no authority from Allah. Rather, what is required is a wedding with ease.
Hence, it is a duty to clarify to the people that these extravagances placed in the path to a wedding bring about evil consequences for their sons and daughters. These extravagances are not from their well-being. Therefore, it is a must to remedy these problems, so that matrimony can return to its ease and convenience.
We ask Allah the Glorious and Most High to grant us the safety of success, guidance and to rectify the condition of all of us. We ask Allah to rectify the Muslim youth and to return the Muslims to their rank and honor the same way Allah gave the Muslim honor before. We ask Allah to return this honor and to rectify the Muslims state.
Allah says the Most High:
But honour, power and glory belong to Allâh, His Messenger (Muhammad Sallalahu ‘Alayhe Wasallam), and to the believers, but the hypocrites know not. (Al-Munafiqun 63:8)
We ask Allah to give the Muslims insight in their religion and to protect them from the evil of their enemies. Peace and blessings be upon our Prophet, his family and all his companions. Praise be to Allah.
by Shaykh Fowzan
Taken from: Islaam's Solution For The Problems Facing Todays Youth, Pgs. 44-48
From among the benefits of getting married at an early age is the obtaining of children, which make the youth delighted at their presence.
Allah says:
And those who say: “Our Lord! Bestow on us from our wives and our offspring who will be the comfort of our eyes, and make us leaders for the Muttaqûn ” (pious - see V.2:2 and the footnote of V.3:164).” (Al-Furqan 25:74)
Wives and children are a deligh; Allah prmised that marriage brings about pleasure. This pleasure encourages and persuades the youth to take an interest in matrimony.
This is also similar to how Allah mentioned that childred are a share of this world’s beauty.
Wealth and children are the adornment of the life of this world. But the good righteous deeds (five compulsory prayers, deeds of Allâh’s obedience, good and nice talk, remembrance of Allâh with glorification, praises and thanks, etc.), that last, are better with your Lord for rewards and better in respect of hope. (Al-Kahf 18:46)
Therefore, this world is adorned by children. The human-being seeks out adornment the same ways he tries to obtain wealth. Similarly, he craves for children, because they are equal to wealth in their existence. This is in this world. Then in the hereafter, righteous children can benefit their fathers as the Prophet sallalahu ‘alayhe wasallam said:
“Whenever the son of Adam dies his action stop except three: Knowledge that benefits people, a recurring charity, and a righteous child that supplicates for his parent .”
(Hadeeth Saheeh, Collected by Muslim #1631)
The second benefit of matrimony at an early age is that it produces children increasing the Muslim Ummah and Islaamic society. The Prophet sallalahu ‘alayhe wasallam said
“Marry the loving and fertile, for verily I want to have the largest Ummah on the Day of Resurrection.”
[Hadeeth Saheeh, Collected by Abu Dawud in his Sunnan (#2050), An-Nisa'i in his Sunnan As-Sughara (#3227), Al-Hakim in Al-Mustadrak (#2/162), and Ibn Hibban in his Saheeh (#4057), Al-Baghawee in his Sharh-us-Sunnah (#9/17), Al-Bayhaqee in his Sunnan AL-Kubara (#7/81) on the authority of Ma'qal Ibn Yasaar. Graded Saheeh by Al-Albani in his checking of Abu Dawud.]
Great blessing result from marriage. From among them are the ones we previously mentioned. So if these virtues and blessings are explained to the adolscents, then the fallacious problems that hinder people from getting married will disappear.
As for the saying that, getting married at an early age diverts from gaining knowledge and from studying, this is not the case. Rather, the opposite of this is correct because tranquility, peace of mind, and pleasure never cease to be obtained through marriage. These things help the student to reach his goal because, he has peace of mind, and his thoughts are not cluttered due to discomfort and this helps him study.
Now on the other hand abstaining from marriage in reality blocks whatever knowledge he wants to attain, because it is not possible to acquire knowledge in a state of confusion and anxiety. However, if he gets married, his mind is at rest and his soul is at ease. He gets a house to take as a shelter and a wife who relaxes and helps him. These things help him to attain knowledge.
If Allah makes it easy and this marraige becomes a source of comfot to become a relationship, then this is from among the things which make it easy for the student to pursue knowledge. Matrimony does not block the path to knowledge as some believe. For that reason, having children is an enormous blessing in this life and in the next.
As for the statement that marriage at an early age burdens the adolsecent to supply provisions for his children, wife and other responsibilities, this also is not correct. Along with marriage comes blessings and well-being. Matrimony is obedience to Allah and His Messenger sallalahu ‘alayhe wasallam and there is good in every act of obedience. So if the youth gets married following the orders of the Prophet sallalahu ‘alayhe wasallam by seeking the blessings that have been promised with the correct intentions, then this marriage will be a reason for his blessings. The provisions are in the hands of Allah.
Allah, the Mighty and Majestic states:
And no (moving) living creature is there on earth but its provision is due from Allâh. (Hud 11:6)
Consequently, if Allah makes it easy for you to get married, then He will make providing for your children easy.
We provide sustenance for you and for them. (Al-An’am 6:151)
Marriage does not burden the young man above his ability as some of the people think. Marriage brings benefits and blessings. Matrimony is a necessary Sunnah of Allah for the human-being. Matrimony is not a horrible nightmare. It is only a door from the doors of righteousness for the person with the correct intention.
As for the excuses about the obstacles placed in the path of marriage, then this is from their evil behavior. Marriage in itself does not require such things as a plump dowry, parties which amount to more than required or other expenses with no authority from Allah. Rather, what is required is a wedding with ease.
Hence, it is a duty to clarify to the people that these extravagances placed in the path to a wedding bring about evil consequences for their sons and daughters. These extravagances are not from their well-being. Therefore, it is a must to remedy these problems, so that matrimony can return to its ease and convenience.
We ask Allah the Glorious and Most High to grant us the safety of success, guidance and to rectify the condition of all of us. We ask Allah to rectify the Muslim youth and to return the Muslims to their rank and honor the same way Allah gave the Muslim honor before. We ask Allah to return this honor and to rectify the Muslims state.
Allah says the Most High:
But honour, power and glory belong to Allâh, His Messenger (Muhammad Sallalahu ‘Alayhe Wasallam), and to the believers, but the hypocrites know not. (Al-Munafiqun 63:8)
We ask Allah to give the Muslims insight in their religion and to protect them from the evil of their enemies. Peace and blessings be upon our Prophet, his family and all his companions. Praise be to Allah.
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