Sunday, September 30, 2007

Islamic Sisterhood: A Precious Bond







Amatullah, Amatullah, do you hear your sister cry?

Many times we hear of our sisters in distress or or state of unease. It could be something from the dunya aspect, such as facing eviction, job loss, a health issue, a death in the family. An empty cupboard, a lack of a coat during winter, feeling overwhelmed or stressed, lonely or sad. It may be their emaan is low, their child is resisting the deen, their marriage is at a troublesome spot. It could be they are a new shahadah, who has some fear of reaching out, or a sister new to this blessed dawah who wants to learn, but doesn't want to appear jahil. It could be be anything, and we know that Allaah will test the believers.

You shall certainly be tried and tested in your wealth and properties and in your personal selves, and you shall certainly hear much that will grieve you from those who received the Scripture before you (Jews and Christians) and from those who ascribe partners to Allâh, but if you persevere patiently, and become Al-Muttaqûn (the pious - see V.2:2) then verily, that will be a determining factor in all affairs, and that is from the great matters, [which you must hold on with all your efforts]. (Aali Imran 3:186)




How many times do you say to yourself, subhna'allah, I should call that sister or at least send an email. Let me pay her a visit, drop off something to lift her spirit. Give some money, food or clohing. Share a book from my library. Invite her to a halaqah, teach her Qu'ran. Or share a smile and listen quietly.

But you don't. Maybe you forget. Maybe you get busy. Or maybe you thought, well insha'allah another sister will/has/should. But could it be everyone else thought the same as you?

And there she is, your sister..still waiting...Did you really hear her cry?
You get word, you hear and you know. But you mute out the sound.
Will your open up your ears? Your eyes? Your heart?
Will you respond to your sisters call?


SUGGESTED ACTIONS:

~ Purify your intention
Actions are by intentions....(1)

~ Make dua for your sister There is no believing servant who supplicates for his brother behind his back (in his absence) that the Angels do not say: The same be for you too. (2)

~ Give words of encouragement. Tell her to never despair of Allah's Mercy.
"The deen is sincerity..." (3)

~ Write her a letter or email with the suras or hadiths that can aid her with her situation. This is something she can re-read and gain benefit from again, insha'allah

~ Make dinner for her family

~ Care for her children, while she takes time to nuture herself or run an errand

~ Visit your sister when sick
"The rights of a Muslim upon another muslim are six...when he is ill he visits him.."(4)

~ Rush to give charity
Translation of Sahih Bukhari, Book 24: Volume 9, Book 93, Number 525y:
Narrated Abu Huraira: Allah's Apostle sallahu alayhi wa sallam said, "If somebody gives in charity something equal to a date from his honestly earned money ----for nothing ascends to Allah except good---- then Allah will take it in His Right (Hand) and bring it up for its owner as anyone of you brings up a baby horse, till it becomes like a mountain." Abu Huraira said: The Prophet. sallahu alayhi wa sallam said, "Nothing ascends to Allah except good."

~ Have a long hand
Translation of Sahih Bukhari Book 24, Number 501:
Narrated 'Aisha: Some of the wives of the Prophet asked him, "Who amongst us will be the first to follow you (i.e. die after you)?" He said, "Whoever has the longest hand." So they started measuring their hands with a stick and Sauda's hand turned out to be the longest. (When Zainab bint Jahsh died first of all in the caliphate of 'Umar), we came to know that the long hand was a symbol of practicing charity, so she was the first to follow the Prophet and she used to love to practice charity. (Sauda died later in the caliphate of Muawiya).

~ If you give her items of clothing or household goods, make sure they are clean and in good condition. This way the recipient feels good about accepting and it shows your consideration

~ Do not remind her in the future of any good deeds you may have done for her
Al-Baqarah - 2:264O you who believe! Do not render in vain your Sadaqah (charity) by reminders of your generosity or by injury, like him who spends his wealth to be seen of men, and he does not believe in Allâh, nor in the Last Day. His likeness is the likeness of a smooth rock on which is a little dust; on it falls heavy rain which leaves it bare. They are not able to do anything with what they have earned. And Allâh does not guide the disbelieving people. (Al-Baqarah 2:264)


~ Maintain her confidences

~ Remain anonymous if able (you can always just mail a money order, gift certificate for the local supermarket or store like walmart, sears ,drop a box of produce or other items on the stoop..etc)
...a man who gives in charity so secretly that his left hand does not know what his right hand has given (5)

~ Encourage others to do the same
A believer is like a brick for another believer, the one supporting the other.(6)

Insha'allah I hope I have said a good word, and that we are open to aid our sisters anyway we are able. I'm sure I have overlooked something, so would be happy to hear what you have done, or what you know others have done, when they responded to an Amatullah's cry.

With that I leave you with this final hadith:




Translation of Sahih Muslim, Book 5: Book 005, Number 2219:
Mundhir b. Jarir reported on the authority of his father: While we were in the
company of the Messenger of Allah in the early hours of the morning, some people came there (who) were barefooted, naked, wearing striped woollen clothes, or cloaks, with their swords hung (around their necks). Most of them, nay, all of them, belonged to the tribe of Mudar. The colour of the face of the Messenger of Allah underwent a change when he saw them in poverty. He then entered (his house) and came out and commanded Bilal (to pronounce Adhan). He pronounced Adhan and Iqima, and he (the Holy Prophet) observed prayer (along with his Companion) and then addressed (them reciting verses of the Holy Qur'an): '" 0 people, fear your Lord, Who created you from a single being" to the end of the verse," Allah is ever a Watcher over you" (iv. 1). (He then recited) a verse of Sura Hashr:" Fear Allah. and let every soul consider that which it sends forth for the morrow and fear Allah" (lix. 18). (Then the audience began to vie with one another in giving charity.) Some donated a dinar, others a dirham, still others clothes, some donated a sa' of wheat, some a sa' of dates; till he (the Holy Prophet) said: (Bring) even if it is half a date. Then a person from among the Ansar came there with a money bag which his hands could scarcely lift; in fact, they could not (lift). Then the people followed continuously, till I saw two heaps of eatables and clothes, and I saw the face of the Messenger (may peace be upon him) glistening, like gold (on account of joy). The Messenger of Allah said: He who sets a good precedent in Islam, there is a reward for him for this (act of goodness) and reward of that also who acted according to it subsequently, without any deduction from their rewards; and he who sets in Islam an evil precedent, there is upon him the burden of that, and the burden of him also who acted upon it subsequently, without any deduction from their burden.

Please forgive me if I have erred, and hasten to correct me if I have done so. Anything good is from Allaah azza wajeel, anything bad from myself and the accursed shaitan.
UmmIdris (Kareema)
Subhanaka 'allahumma wa bihamdika 'ash hadu 'alla 'ilaha 'illa 'anta astaghfiruka wa 'atubu 'ilayka

References
1. From Umar ibn al-Khattaab who said that Allah's Messenger sallahu alayhi wa sallam said:
Actions are by intentions and there is for every person only that which is intended so he whose migration was for Allah and His messenger, then his migration was for Allaah and His Messenger, and he whose migration was to attain some wordly goal or to take a woman in marriage, then his migration was for that which he migrated. Muslim vol #3 p. 1056 #4692
2. Abu Dharr reported that Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: There is no believing servant who supplicates for his brother behind his back (in his absence) that the Angels do not say: The same be for you too. Muslim Book 035, Number 6588:
3. From Tameem ad-Daaree (radiyallaahu 'anhu) who said that Allah's Messenegr sallahu alayhi wa sallam said: "The deen is sincerity. The deen is sincerity." We asked to whom O Messenger of Allaah?" He replied, To Allaah, to His Book, to His Messenger, to the leaders of the Muslims and their common folk." Muslim #55 vol 1 pg 37 #98
4. From Aboo Hurairah (radiyallaahu 'anhu) who said that Allaah's Messenger said: The rights of a Muslim upon another Muslim are six. Tehy asked, "What are they O Messenger of Allah?" He said, "When he meets him he greets him with salaam, when he invites him he responds, when he asks for his sincere advise he sincerely advises him, whjen he sneezes and prises Allaah he asks for Allaah's Mercy for him, when he is ill he visits him, and when he dies he accompanies him (i.e his funeral).
Reported by Muslim #2162 (vol 3. p 1183 no. 5379)
5. Volume 8, Book 82, Number 798:
Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet sallahu alayhi wa sallam said, "Seven (people) will be shaded by Allah by His Shade on the Day of Resurrection when there will be no shade except His Shade. (They will be), a just ruler, a young man who has been brought up in the worship of Allah, a man who remembers Allah in seclusion and his eyes are then flooded with tears, a man whose heart is attached to mosques (offers his compulsory congregational prayers in the mosque), two men who love each other for Allah's Sake, a man who is called by a charming lady of noble birth to commit illegal sexual intercourse with her, and he says, 'I am afraid of Allah,' and (finally), a man who gives in charity so secretly that his left hand does not know what his right hand has given."
6. Abu Musa reported Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) as saying: A believer is like a brick for another believer, the one supporting the other.
Muslim, Book 032, Number 6257:

http://www.salafisisters.org/Halaqahs.html

Saturday, September 29, 2007

Zakat


One of the most important principles of Islam is that all things belong to God, and that wealth is therefore held by human beings in trust.


The word Zakat means both 'purification' and 'growth'. Our possessions are purified by setting aside a proportion for those in need, and, like the pruning of plants, this cutting back balances and encourages new growth.


Zakat is the amount of money that every adult, mentally stable, free, and financially able Muslim, male and female, has to pay to support specific categories people.


This category of people is defined in surah at-Taubah (9) verse 60:

" The alms are only for the poor and the needy, and those who collect them, and those whose hearts are to be reconciled, and to free the captives and the debtors, and for the cause of Allah, and (for) the wayfarers; a duty imposed by Allah. Allah is knower, Wise."

(The Holy Qur'an 9:60).



The obligatory nature of Zakat is firmly established in the Qur'an, the Sunnah (or hadith), and the consensus of the companions and the Muslim scholars.


Allah states in Surah at-Taubah verses 34-35: "34:

O ye who believe! there are indeed many among the priests and anchorites, who in Falsehood devour the substance of men and hinder (them) from the way of Allah. And there are those who bury gold and silver and spend it not in the way of Allah. announce unto them a most grievous penalty- 35:On the Day when heat will be produced out of that (wealth) in the fire of Hell, and with it will be branded their foreheads, their flanks, and their backs, their flanks, and their backs.- "This is the (treasure) which ye buried for yourselves: taste ye, then, the (treasures) ye buried!" (The Holy Qur'an 9:34-35).



The prophet (pbuh) said:

"Any owner of gold and silver who does not deliver from them their right, on the Day of Quiyamah (Day of Judgment), (the gold and silver) will be shaped as foils of fire. Then it will be heated in the fire of Hell; (and) then with it he will be ironed on his side, his forehead, and his back" (narrated by Muslim).



It is agreed between Muslims in all the centuries the obligatory nature of paying Zakat for gold and silver, and from those the other kinds of currency.


Zakat is obligatory when a certain amount of money, called the nisab is reached or exceeded.


Zakat is not obligatory if the amount owned is less than this nisab.


The nisab (or minimum amount) of gold and golden currency is 20 mithqal, this is approximately 85 grams of pure gold. One mithqal is approximately 4.25 grams. The nisab of silver and silver currency is 200 dirhams, which is approximately 595 grams of pure silver. The nisab of other kinds of money and currency is to be scaled to that of gold, 85 grams of pure gold. This means that the nisab of money is the price of 85 grams of 999-type (pure) gold, on the day in which Zakat is paid.


When is Zakat Due ?


1. Passage of One Lunar Year:
Zakat is obligatory after a time span of one lunar year passes with the money in the control of it's owner. Then the owner needs to pay 2.5% (or 1/40) of the money as Zakat. (A lunar year is approximately 355 days).


2. Deduction of Debts:
The owner should deduct any amount of money he or she borrowed from others; then check if the rest reaches the necessary nisab, then pays Zakat for it. If the owner had enough money to satisfy the nisab at the beginning of the year, then the money increased (in profits, salaries, inheritance, grants...etc.), the owner needs to add the increase to the nisab amount owned at the beginning of the year; then pay Zakat, 2.5%, of the total at the end of the lunar year. (there are small differences in the fiqh schools here)



Each Muslim calculates his or her own Zakat individually. For most purposes this involves the payment each year of two and a half percent of one's capital.


A pious person may also give as much as he or she pleases as sadaqa, and does so preferably in secret. Although this word can be translated as 'voluntary charity' it has a wider meaning. The Prophet said 'even meeting your brother with a cheerful face is charity.'


Ibn 'Umar, may Allah be pleased with them, reported:

The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) ordered that the Charity of Al-Fitr should be paid before the people go out for the (Eid) Prayer.
Hadith number in Sahih Muslim [Arabic only]: 1645


The Prophet said:

'Charity is a necessity for every Muslim. ' He was asked: 'What if a person has nothing?' The Prophet replied: 'He should work with his own hands for his benefit and then give something out of such earnings in charity.' The Companions asked: 'What if he is not able to work?' The Prophet said: 'He should help poor and needy persons.' The Companions further asked 'What if he cannot do even that?' The Prophet said 'He should urge others to do good.' The Companions said 'What if he lacks that also?' The Prophet said 'He should check himself from doing evil. That is also charity.'



Useful Links:

http://zakat.al-islam.com/ :How to Calculate Your Zakah on many things










Wednesday, September 26, 2007

Love and Forgiveness in Islam




LOVE EVEN THOSE WHO REVILE YOU




Interview with Shaykh Hamza Yusuf




(Source: Q-News )




Q: The convenient response to those who revile your religion is to return the favor. The more virtuous position however is to forgive. Forgiveness as you know, while less in virtue when compared to love, nevertheless, can result in love. Love, by definition, does not require forgiveness. What many Muslims today seem to forget is that ours is a religion of love and our Prophet, upon him be peace and blessings, was the Habib, the Beloved. How did love, the defining virtue of our community, come to be replaced by an urge to redress wrongs, to punish instead of to forgive?




Shaykh Hamza Yusuf: It is the result of Muslims seeing themselves as victims. Victimization is a defeatist mentality. It's the mentality of the powerless. The word victim is from the Latin “victima” which carries with it the idea of the one who suffers injury, loss, or death due to a voluntary undertaking. In other words, victims of one’s own actions. Muslims never really had a mentality of victimization. From a metaphysical perspective, which is always the first and primary perspective of a Muslim, there can be no victims. We believe that all suffering has a redemptive value.




Q: If the tendency among Muslims is to view themselves as victims which appears to me as a fall from grace, what virtue must we then cultivate to dispense with this mental and physical state that we now find ourselves in?




Shaykh Hamza Yusuf: The virtue of patience is missing. Patience is the first virtue after tawba or repentance. Early Muslim scholars considered patience as the first maqam or station in the realm of virtues that a person entered into. Patience in Islam means patience in the midst of adversity. A person should be patient in what has harmed or afflicted him. Patience means that you don’t lose your comportment or your composure. If you look at the life of the Prophet Muhammad, upon him be peace and blessings, you will never ever find him losing his composure. Patience was a hallmark of his character. He was ‘the unperturbed one’ which is one of the meanings of halim: wa kaana ahlaman-naas. He was the most unperturbed of humanity. Nothing phased him either inwardly or outwardly because he was with Allah in all his states.




Q: Patience is a beautiful virtue…the cry of Prophet Yaqub.... "fa sabran jamil." Patience, it appears, is not an isolated virtue but rather it is connected to a network of virtues. Should Muslims focus on this virtue at the expense of the other virtues?




Shaykh Hamza Yusuf: The traditional virtues of a human being were four and Qadi Ibn Al-Arabi considered them to be the foundational virtues or the ummahatul fadaa'il of all of humanity. They are: prudence, courage, temperance, and justice. Prudence, or rather practical wisdom, and courage, are defining qualities of the Prophet. He, upon him be peace and blessings, said that God loves courage even in the killing of a harmful snake. Temperance is the ability to control oneself. Incontinence, the hallmark of intemperance, is said to occur when a person is unable to control himself. In modern medicine it is used for someone who can’t control his urine or feces. But not so long ago the word incontinence meant a person who was unable to control his temper, appetite or sexual desire.




Temperance is the moral virtue that moderates one’s appetite in accordance with prudence. In early Muslim scholarship on Islamic ethics, justice was considered impossible without the virtues of prudence, courage and temperance.




Generosity as a virtue is derived from courage because a generous person is required to be courageous in the face of poverty.




Similarly, humility is a derivative from temperance because the humble person will often restrain the urge to brag and be a ‘show-off’ because he or she sees their talents and achievements as a gift from Allah and not from themselves.




Patience as a virtue is attached to the virtue of courage because the patient person has the courage to endure difficulties.So 'hilm' (from which you get 'halim'), often translated as forbearance or meekness if you wish, is frown upon in our society. Yet it is the virtue we require to stem the powerful emotion of anger. Unrestrained anger often leads to rage and rage can lead to violence in its various shades. Our predecessors were known for having an incredible degree of patience while an increasing number of us are marked with an extreme degree of anger, resentment, hate, rancor and rage.




These are negative emotions which present themselves as roadblocks to living a virtuous life. A patient human being will endure tribulations, trials, difficulties, hardships, if confronted with them. The patient person will not be depressed or distraught and whatever confronts him will certainly not lead to a loss of comportment or adab. Adab, as you know, is everything. Allah says in the Quran:




‘Isbiru was-sabiru.' “Have patience and enjoin each other to patience.”




The beauty of patience is that ‘inallaha ma'assabirin’ Allah is with the patient ones. If God is on your side you will always be victorious. Allah says in the Quran:




"Ista`inu bi-sabiri was-salat.'"




Isti'aana is a reflexive of the Arabic verb `aana which is “to help oneself.” Allah is telling us to help ourselves with patience and prayer.This is amazing because the Prophet, peace be upon him, said: “if you take help, take help from God alone.” And so in the Quran Allah says ista`inu bi-sabiri was-salaat. This means taking help from patience and prayer because that is the means by which Allah has given you to take help from Him alone. How is it then that a person sees himself as a victim when all calamities, difficulties and trials, are ultimately tests from Allah. This does not mean the world is free of aggression and that victims have suddenly vanished. What I’m talking about is a person’s psychology in dealing with hardships. The sacred law has two perspectives when looking at acts of aggression that are committed by one party against another. When it is viewed by those in authority the imperative is to seek justice. However, from the perspective of the wronged, it is not to seek justice but instead to forgive.




Forgiveness, `afwa, pardon, is not a quality of authority. A court is not set up to forgive. It’s the plaintiff that’s required to forgive if there is going to be any forgiveness at all. Forgiveness will not come from the Qadi or the judge. The court is set up to give justice but Islam cautions us not to go there in the first place because ‘by the standard which you judge so too shall you be judged.’ That's the point. If you want justice, if you want God, the Supreme Judge of all affairs, to be just to others on your behalf, then you should know that your Lord will use the same standard with you. Nobody on the ‘Day of Arafat’ will pray: “Oh God, be just with me.” Instead you will hear them crying: O Allah, forgive me, have mercy on me, have compassion on me, overlook my wrongs. Yet, these same people are not willing to forgive, have compassion and mercy on other creatures of God.We are not a people that are required to love wrong-doers. We must loath wrong actions, but at the same time we should love for the wrong-doers guidance because they are creatures of God and they were put here by the same God that put us here. And Allah says in the Quran:




“we made some of you a tribulation for others, will you then not show patience.”




In other words, God set up the scenario, and then asked the question: ‘will you then not show patience?’ Will you subdue the inordinate desire for vengeance to achieve a higher station that is based on a conviction that you will be forgiven by God if only you can bring yourself to forgive others?


The Prophet Muhammad(sallalahu alayhi wa sallam) never took revenge on anyone for personal reasons and always forgave even his staunch enemies.




A'isha(may Allah be pleased with her) said that God's Messenger(salallahu alahyi wa sallam) never took revenge on his own behalf on anyone. She also said that God's Messenger was not unseemly or obscene in his speech, nor was he loud-voiced in the streets, nor did he return evil for evil, but he would forgive and pardon.




The people of the Quraish rebuked him, taunted and mocked at him, beat him and abused him.


They tried to kill him and when he escaped to Medinah, they waged many wars against him yet when he entered Makkah victorious with an army of 10,000, he did not take revenge on anyone.


He forgave all.


Even his deadliest enemy Abu Sufyan, who fought so many battles, was forgiven, and anyone who stayed in his house was also forgiven

Tuesday, September 25, 2007

How A Muslim Acts

Image taken from:http://www.skyscrapercity.com/showthread.php?t=192768&page=1


Salam Aleikum, this article is not a direct article on Ramadan per say but it is a good article that we can use for trying to be better Muslims, and what better time to start this goal than in the Holy Month?




I think that in this day and age people have forgotten the importance of good manners, and most of all HUMILITY. Being generous, humble, and respectful to oneself and others are VERY admirable traits that we, as Muslims, must strive for everyday of our lives. These traits are not found or recgonized easily in some people, these are the ones who are in constant battle with their inner-selves to be better, more God-fearing Muslims. In other people, it bursts forth like a bright light, mesmerising those around them, and strengthening and inspiring others to be better.





Life has a way of making us so busy we forget about these traits and we let our naturally dominant traits take hold, whether they be good or bad. We MUST remind ourselves about the specific traits that a Muslim should posses, and how we will do our best to attain these traits. Prayer is a wonderful way of making us ponder this, to humble us, and to REMIND us that we have an obligation and responsibility to ourselves, but most importantly to ALLAH to follow what "he" has sent down to us in the Quran, and to use as a guidenace, the best example, our beloved Prophet Muhammad(sallalahu alayhi wa sallm).





"And whatever the Messenger gives you, take it, and whatever he forbids you, leave it. And fear Allah: truly Allah is severe in punishment. "

[Qur'an 59:7]




Anas bin Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) relates that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (may Allah's blessings and peace be upon him) said: “A person cannot be a perfect Muslim unless he desires for his brother (in Faith) that which he desires for himself.”

(Bukhari and Muslim)




Abu Musa al-Ash‘ari (may Allah be pleased with him), relates that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him) said: “The bonds (of brotherhood) between Muslims are like parts of a house; one part strengthens and holds another”. He crossed the fingers of one hand between those of the other (to illustrate the point).

(Bukhari and Muslim)




Nu‘man bin Bashir (may Allah be pleased with him), relates that the Holy Prophet Muhammad (may Allah’s blessings and peace be upon him), said: “The Muslims, in their mutual love, kindness and compassion are like the human body: when one of its parts is in agony, the entire body feels the pain, both in sleeplessness and fever”.

(Bukhari and Muslim)






May ALLAH guide us to the right path. Ameen.






____________________________________________________________________


A Muslim’s Character and Behaviour


By: Yasin Syed


Sincerity, compassion and forgiveness are qualities that are very important to an individual. They form the basis of a person’s character and help him or her interact with society. These values are also some of the most essential qualities that are to be present in a Muslim. Islam teaches Muslims to beautify their character and Allah Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala commands Muslims to reflect their religion by demonstrating a noble character and having a good personality. But in order for Muslims to possess such qualities, we must follow our beloved Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam. Since Allah says in the Holy Qur’an,


“Surely there is for you the best example in the Messenger of Allah (that is, in Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu-Alayhi-Wasallam), for whoever seeks the pleasure of Allah and the Last Day, and remembers Allah often (much).” (Verse 21, Surah Al-Ahzab).


The life of Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam was full of compassion, forgiveness and sincerity. He excelled in virtue and piety. The people of Makkah called him “Al-Ameen” (The Trustworthy) and “As-Sadiq” (The Truthful). It was through these fine qualities and noble values, that the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam was able to win the hearts of the people of Makkah and Madinah and bring them to the fold of Islam.


Apart from maintaining a strong faith, a Muslim also has to maintain a good character. The Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam said,


“Modesty and faith are twins. One who gives up one has to lose the other too.”


A Muslim should refrain from being ill-mannered and immodest. When a Muslim has strong faith, his/her character will also be strong. If his or her character is very weak, then the faith will also be very weak. A Muslim can create a good character within one’s self by praying salah five times a day, fasting and paying zakaah. These forms of worship instill good manners and an exemplary behaviour within a Muslim. The daily salah cleans a person physically and spiritually. It also prohibits evil and obscenity. Fasting teaches a person self-control and makes him righteous while zakaah creates kindness and sympathy within a person. It helps Muslims to become more charitable and more caring about the less fortunate in the society.


Muslims should also demonstrate an excellent character to their neighbours and the community that they live in. They should always present themselves as helpful and caring individuals to their neigbours. In a Hadith, a person inquired the Holy Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam about the fate of a woman who was very famous for her prayers and fasting but who always talked very rudely with her neighbours. The Prophet replied that she would go to Hell. The same person also asked the Prophet Sallallahu ‘Alayhi Wa Sallam about another woman who prays and fasts and doesn’t harm her neighbours. The Prophet Sallallahu ‘Alayhi Wa Sallam replied that she would enter Paradise. This Hadith shows that it is not sufficient enough for a Muslim to just pray and fast in order to enter Paradise but also, a Muslim has to be compassionate and caring towards other members of society.


Muslims should continue to display their exemplary behaviour and should show mercy and forgiveness even to their enemies. Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam forgave non-believers who caused great harm and injury to him. Rather than praying for their death and their destruction, the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam instead prayed for their forgiveness from Allah. Even during the incident at Ta’if, where the Prophet Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam was pelted with stones by the people, he was asked by Angel Jibreel Alayhissalam to give permission to destroy the town, but the Prophet refused but instead prayed that their progeny may become Muslim.


Muslims should also treat non-Muslims with respect and dignity. They should show compassion and mercy towards them. Once, the Holy Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam was walking at a very slow pace with his companions. The Sahaba were very puzzled and asked him if they could walk faster. But the Prophet Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam replied that there was an old man walking ahead of him. His companions told him that the man was a non-believer but the Prophet replied that the man was worthy of respect because of his old age.


Islam spread to many parts of the world because of the noble character and the excellent qualities that were demonstrated by Muslims. Their compassion, tolerance and generosity spread throughout the world. It helped introduce Islam to other places and also showed our tolerance and respect to people of other faiths. Excellent behaviour and good qualities are an important part of our religion. It helps us live peacefully together as a society and it also reflects our beautiful religion to the outside world.





This article and others can be found at: http://www.iqra.net/muslimstudents1/essayseniors11

Saturday, September 22, 2007

Laylatul qadr-The Night of Power


In the name of God, Most Gracious, Most Merciful We have indeed revealed this (Message) in the Night of Power: And what will explain to thee what the Night of Power is? The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. Therein come down the angels and the Spirit by God's permission, on every errand: Peace!...This until the rise of morn!

(Surah 97 The Holy Qur’an)


Laylatul Qadr is the most blessed night. A person who misses it has indeed missed a great amount of good. If an individual wants to obey his Lord, increase the good deeds in his record and have all past sins forgiven, they should take part in Laylatul Qadr.


“Whoever stays up (in prayer and remembrance of Allah) on the Night of Qadr fully believing (in Allah’s promise of reward for that night) and hoping to seek reward (from Allah alone and not from people), he shall be forgiven for his past sins.”

Sahih Hadith Bukhari / Muslim




Surah 97 Qadr


97:1 Lo! We revealed it on the Night of Power.
إِنَّا أَنزَلْنَاهُ فِي لَيْلَةِ الْقَدْرِ


97:2 Ah, what will convey unto thee what the Night of Power is!
وَمَا أَدْرَاكَ مَا لَيْلَةُ الْقَدْرِ


97:3 The Night of Power is better than a thousand months.
لَيْلَةُ الْقَدْرِ خَيْرٌ مِّنْ أَلْفِ شَهْرٍ


97:4 The angels and the Spirit descend therein, by the permission of their Lord, with all decrees.
تَنَزَّلُ الْمَلَائِكَةُ وَالرُّوحُ فِيهَا بِإِذْنِ رَبِّهِم مِّن كُلِّ أَمْرٍ


97:5 (That night is) Peace until the rising of the dawn.

سَلَامٌ هِيَ حَتَّى مَطْلَعِ الْفَجْرِ





The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) illustrated for us some of the things we should be doing on this Grand Night. From his blessed Sunnah we find the following:


Praying Qiyaam (night prayer)


It is recommended to make a long qiyaam prayer during the nights on which Laylatul Qadr could fall. This is indicated in many ahadeeth, such as


"Whoever stands (in qiyaam) in Laylatul Qadr [and it is facilitated for him] out of faith and expectation (of Allah's reward), will have all of his previous sins forgiven."


[Al-Bukhari and Muslim; the addition "and it is facilitated for him" is recorded by Ahmad from the report of 'Ubaadah Bin as-Samit; it means that he is permitted to be among the sincere worshippers during that blessed night.]


Making Supplications


It is also recommended to make extensive supplication on this night.


'A'ishah reported that she asked Allah's Messenger (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) "O Messenger of Allah! If I knew which night is Laylatul Qadr, what should I say during it?" And he instructed her to say: "Allahumma innaka `afuwwun tuhibbul `afwa fa`fu `annee - O Allah! You are forgiving, and you love forgiveness. So forgive me."

[An authentic Hadith recorded by Ahmad, Ibn Majah and at-Tirmidhi.]



Abandoning Worldly Pleasures for the Sake of Worship


It is further recommended to spend more time in worship during the nights on which Laylatul Qadr is likely to fall. This calls for abandoning many worldly pleasures in order to secure the time and thoughts solely for worshipping Allah (Subhanahu wa ta'ala).


'A'ishah reported: "When the (last) ten started, the Prophet (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) would tighten his izaar (i.e. he stayed away from his wives in order to have more time for worship), spend the whole night awake (in prayer) and wake up his family." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]


And she said: "Allah's Messenger (Sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) used to exert more (in worship) on the last ten than on other nights."

[Muslim]

Wednesday, September 19, 2007

Miswak/Sewak




MISWAAK = twigs of certain trees that are used on a regular basis by Muslims for centuries (and all Prophets Peace upon Them) to maintain oral hygiene and gain the pleasure of Allah SWT. It is a "natural toothbrush." Not only does it provide spiritual benefits, but it is also beneficial to the everyday maintenance of one's mouth, gums, and teeth.


A 2003 scientific study comparing the use of miswaak with ordinary toothbrushing concluded that the results clearly were in favor of the users who had been using the miswaak provided they had been given proper instruction in how to brush using the miswaak. The WHO recommended the use of the miswaak in 1986 and in 2000 an international consensus report on oral hygiene concluded that further research was needed to document the effect of the miswak.




Narrated
Abu Huraira:
The Prophet(sallalahu alayhi wa sallm) said, "If somebody eats or drinks forgetfully then he should complete his
fast, for what he has eaten or drunk, has been given to him by God." Narrated 'Amir bin Rabi'a, "I saw the Prophet(sallalahu alayhi wa sallm) cleaning his teeth with Siwak while he was fasting so many times as I can't count." And narrated Abu Huraira, "The Prophet(sallalahu alayhi wa sallm) said, 'But for my fear that it would be hard for my followers, I would have ordered them to clean their teeth with Siwak on every performance of ablution." The same is narrated by Jabir and Zaid bin Khalid from the Prophet(salalahu alayhi wa sallm) who did not differentiate between a fasting and a nonfasting person in this respect (using Siwak).


Aisha said, "The Prophet(sallalahu alayhi wa sallm) said, "It (i.e. Siwak) is a purification for the mouth and it is a way of seeking God's pleasures." Ata' and Qatada said, "There is no harm in swallowing the resultant saliva."



Ibn Umar narrates that the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said:
'Make a regular practice of the Miswaak, for verily, it is healthy for the mouth and it is a Pleasure for the Creator (i.e. Allah is pleased with the Muslim who uses the Miswaak)'."
(BUKHARI)


"Abu Hurairah narrates that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: 'Was it not for my fear of imposing a difficulty on my Ummah I would have ordered that the Miswaak be used for every Salaat'."
(BUKHARI)





'Abd al-Rahman son of Abu Sa'id al-Khudri reported on the authority of his father that the Messenger of God(sallalahu alayhi wa sallm) said: Bathing on Friday for every adult, using of Miswak and applying some perfume, that is available-these are essential. So far as the perfume is concerned, it may be that used by a lady.


‘Aa'ishah related that the Prophet(sallalahu alayhi wa sallm) said: "Ten things are part of one’s natural disposition: Trimming the moustache, growing a beard, (using) the Miswaak, sniffing water, cutting the nails, washing hands, plucking armpits, shaving pubic hair, and conserving water." [Muslim]


Use and Maintanence


1) A miswak should be one hand span in length when selected.


2) If it is becomes dry, it should be soaked in rose water to ensure the end is soft.


3) The end should be cut afresh to ensure hygiene, and should never be stored near a toilet or sink.


4) It can be used by cutting the branches instead of roots, keeping in mind that the roots can keep the humidity of Miswak more than the branches .


5) Fresh Miswaak is brown in color, with a hot, pleasant taste. People usually strip off some of the Miswaak's thin bark from one end, then chew that end a little to separate the fibers so that they become like the fibers of a normal toothbrush. They then use it to brush their teeth.


6) Freshness: Miswaak should be freshly cut so that it is supple, easily chewed, and still rich in active constituents. The root should be whitish-brown in color; a dark brown color indicates that the Miswaak is no longer fresh.


7) If a stick is dry, the end for chewing should initially be soaked in fresh water for 24 hours. It should be noted that soaking for unduly long periods causes loss of active constituents and diminishes the therapeutic properties, although the mechanical effects on the teeth can still occur.


8) Before Miswaak is used, the end should be washed with water. It is then chewed repeatedly until the fibers stand out like the bristles of a toothbrush. These fibers should be trimmed every 24 hours.


9) The techniques employed for removing plaque mechanically are similar to that for the toothbrush and the chewing stick; i.e., vertical and horizontal brushing. The cleaning movement should always be directed away from the gingival margin of the teeth (away from the gums) on both the buccal (outer cheek) and lingual (inner cheek) surfaces. Care should be taken to avoid damaging the soft tissues of the mouth. Satisfactory cleaning can be achieved if this procedure is followed for five minutes.


10) There are two basic holds: Pen-grip (three-finger) or palm-grip (five finger-grip). In each case the aim is to ensure firm but controlled movement of the brush end of the Miswaak within the oral cavity, so that every area of the mouth is reached with relative ease and convenience.


When to use Miswaak:


In general, the Miswaak should be used a minimum of five times a day (i.e. before each prayer).

However it is recommended to use it all the time, whenever possible.


Common mistakes in Miswaak use:


1. The end is either too thin or too thick.

2. Keeping it in the mouth while doing other things.

3. Not cutting the end every day.

4. Forgetting that teeth have five faces (inner, outer, two sides, and biting/chewing face), and only using Miswaak to clean the outer faces.

Sunday, September 16, 2007

The Battle of Badr


The Battle of Badr in its Qur’anic Context


“And remember when you were few and were reckoned weak in the land, and were afraid that men might kidnap you, but He provided a safe place for you, strengthened you with His help, and provided you with good things so that you might be grateful.” [8:26]


The Chapter of Al-Anfal (spoils of war) was revealed on the occasion of the battle of Badr, Ramadan 17th 2 A.H. It constituted a unique Divine commentary on this battle.


Allâh, the All-High, in the context of this Chapter draws on major issues relating to the whole process of Islamization. Allâh, here draws the attention of the Muslims to the still lingering moral shortcomings in their character. He wants them to build an integrated, purified society. He speaks about the invisible assistance he sent down to His obedient servants to enable them to accomplish their noble objectives. He wants the Muslims to rid themselves of any trait of haughtiness or arrogance that might sneak in. He wants them to turn to Him for help, obey Him and His Messenger (Peace be upon him).


After that He delineated the noble objectives for which the Messenger (Peace be upon him) launched that bloody battle, and directed them to the merits and qualities that brought about the great victory.The polytheists, hypocrites, the Jews and prisoners of war were also mentioned, being admonished to surrender to the Truth and adhere to it only. The question of the spoils of war was resolved and the principles and basics relevant to this issue were clearly defined.


The laws and rules pertinent to war and peace were legalized and codified, especially at this advanced stage of the Islamic action. Allâh wanted the Muslims to follow war ethics dissimilar to those of pre-Islamic practices. The Muslims are deemed to outdo the others in ethics, values and fine ideals. He wants to impress on the world that Islam is not merely a theoretical code of life, it is rather mind cultivation-orientated practical principles. In this context, He established inter and intra-state relations.


The fast of Ramadan was established as an obligatory observance in the year 2 A.H., appended by the duty imposed upon Muslims of paying Zakat (alms tax, poor-due) in order to alleviate the burden of the needy Emigrants.


A wonderful and striking coincidence was the establishment of Shawwal ‘Eid (the Festival of the Fast-Breaking) directly after the manifest victory of Badr. It was actually the finest spectacle ever witnessed of Muslims leaving their houses praying, acclaiming Allâh’s Name and entertaining His praise at the top of their voices in recognition of His favour and grace, and last but not least, the support He rendered them and through which the forces of the Truth overpowered those of evil.



Links for Stories on The Battle of Badr






Quran Verses for The Battle of Badr
The Surah takes its name Al-Anfal (The Spoils) from the first verse.

The Period of Revelation It was revealed in 2 A. H. after the Battle of Badr, the first battle between Islam and kufr. As it contains a detailed and comprehensive review of the Battle, it appears that most probably it was revealed at one and the same time. But it is also possible that some of the verses concerning the problems arising as a result of this Battle might have been revealed later and incorporated at the proper places to make it a continuous whole. At any rate, in the whole Surah there is nothing that might show that it is a collection of a couple of discourses, that have been patched up together.


The Quran on War, Peace and Justice(excerpt)
In verse 2.190;
Allah instructs Muslims to fight back, but not to transgress, and remain just even during the battle. "They are told that material interests should not be the motivation for their fighting, that they should not take up arms against those were not in opposition to the true faith, that they should not resort to unscrupulous methods or to the indiscriminate killing and pillage which characterized the other wars. The excesses alluded to in this verse are acts such as taking up arms against women and children, the old and the injured, mutilation of the dead bodies of the enemy, uncalled for devastation through the destruction of fields and livestock, and other similar acts of injustice and brutality.
2:190 AND FIGHT in God's cause against those who wage war against you, but do not commit aggression-for, verily, God does not love aggressors.

وَقَاتِلُواْ فِي سَبِيلِ اللّهِ الَّذِينَ يُقَاتِلُونَكُمْ وَلاَ تَعْتَدُواْ إِنَّ اللّهَ لاَ يُحِبِّ الْمُعْتَدِينَ (2:190)

The Prophet (Sallalahu Alaihi Wa Salam) prohibited all these acts. The real intent of the verse is to stress that force should be used only when its use is unavoidable, and only to the extent that is absolutely necessary."

Commentary on verse 2.192:
2:192 But if they desist-behold, God is much-forgiving, a dispenser of grace.
فَإِنِ انتَهَوْاْ فَإِنَّ اللّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ (2:192)

Allah, in whom the believers have faith, is forgiving and ready to pardon even the worst criminals and sinners after they have renounced their arrogant defiance towards Him. It is suggested that this attribute of Allah should be reflected in the behavior of the believers as well. Hence, whenever the believers have to resort to armed conflict, they should do so not for the sake of quenching their thirst for vengeance but in the just cause of their defense. Their conflict with any group should last only as long as that group is fighting them. As soon as it gives up this fight the hostility should cease.

It should be emphasized that so many revelations in the Holy Quran came down to provide guidance to Prophet Muhammad (Sallalahu Alaihi Wa Salam) and the Muslims based on what they were confronting at that time. Therefore, it is important to understand and know the historic context of the revelations for a proper understanding of these verses.

The Prophet Muhammad(Sallalahu Alaihi Wa Salam) , was the peace maker of his time. He endured torture, hunger and the killing of his loved ones by his enemies, but he remained a merciful person. In his most startling conquest of Makkah only four people died. In his 23 years of struggle for Islam, the total number of people who lost their lives from all sides was less than 2,000 in wars that were imposed on him and the Muslim community.

Saturday, September 15, 2007

What can I do to try harder to be a better Muslim?

  1. Make a resolve to win the maximum favor of Allah by performing extra Voluntary prayers (Nawaafil), making frequent Dua and increased remembrance (Dhikr).
  2. Try to recite some Holy Quran after every Prayer. In fact if you read 3-4 pages after every Prayer you can easily finish the entire Quran in Ramadan!
  3. Study the Tafseer (commentary) every morning.
  4. Invite a person you are not very close with or your relatives to your home for Iftaar, at least once a week (Weekend). You will notice the blessings in your relationships!
  5. Bring life to your family! Everyday, try to conclude the fast with your family and spend some quality time together to understand each other better.
  6. Give gifts on Eid to at least 5 people: 2 to your family members, 2 to your good friends, and 1 to a person whom you love purely for the sake of Allah.
  7. Make commitment to join Islamic study circles to learn more about Islam and improve your own life.
  8. Donate generously to the Masajid, Islamic organizations, and any where people are in need or oppressed. "Because Ramadan, is a month of sharing!"
  9. Share month of Ramadan and its teachings of peace and patience with your neighbours.
    Sleep little, eat little! Make sure you do not defeat the purpose of fasting by over-indulging in food and being lazy.
  10. Seek the rare and oft-neglected rewards of the night better than 1000 months (Laylatul-Qadr / Shab-e-Qadr).
  11. Weep in private for the forgiveness of your sins: Ramadan is the month of forgiveness and Allah's Mercy! It's never too late.
  12. Learn to control your tongue and lower your gaze. Remember the Prophet's (pbuh) warning that lying, backbiting, and a lustful gaze all violate the Ramadan fast!
    Encourage others to enjoin and love goodness, and to abandon everything that Allah dislikes.
  13. Play the role of a Da'ee (one who invites to Allah) with zeal, passion, and sympathy.
  14. Experience the joy of Tahajjud prayers late at night and devote yourself purely and fully to Allah in the Itikaf retreat during the last 10 days of Ramadan.


Reading/Reciting of The Quran and its Great Benefits

1 - Reading and reflecting over the Qur’an fulfils an Islamic duty

Indeed the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) summarised this Religion with his statement: “The Religion is naseehah (sincerity)!” So then Tameem ibn Aws, may Allah be pleased with him, then said, “We asked, ‘To whom?’” He said: “To Allah, HIS BOOK, His Messenger, the leaders of the people, and their common folk.” [Muslim]

2 - The Qur’an will be a proof for us on the Day of Judgment.

This is due to the statement of the Messenger: “And the Qur’an is a proof for you or against you.” [Muslim]

3 - The Qur’an will intercede for us on the Day of Judgment

The proof: Aboo Umaamah relates that the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) said: “Read the Qur’an, for verily it will come on the Day of Standing as an intercessor for its companions.” [Muslim]

4 - Your status in this life will be raised.

In Saheeh Muslim, we find a lovely story, about how a man from the people of Jannah, ‘Umar ibn Al-Khattaab, understood this principle. Some men came to question him during his khilaafah about the leadership of Makkah, they asked, “Who do you use to govern Makkah?” He said, “Ibn Abzaa.” They asked, “And who is Ibn Abzaa?” Umar replied, “A freed slave from those we freed.” They remarked, “You left a freed slave in charge of the people of the Valley (the noble tribes of the Quraysh)!?!?” So he answered them, “Verily he is a reader of the Book of Allah and is knowledgeable about the obligations of the Muslims. Haven’t you heard the statement of your Messenger: “Verily Allah raises some people by this Book and lowers others by it.”

5 - You will be from the best of the people.

‘Uthmaan, may Allah be pleased with him, said that the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) said: “The best of you are the ones who learn the Qur’an and teach it to others” [Al-Bukhari]

6 - There are ten rewards for each letter you recite from the Qur’an.

As an authentic hadith in At-Tirmithee proves: “Whoever reads a letter from the Book of Allah, he will have a reward. And that reward will be multiplied by ten. I am not saying that “Alif, Laam, Meem” is a letter, rather I am saying that “Alif” is a letter, “laam” is a letter and “meem” is a letter.” So increase your recitation of the Qur’an to gain these merits, and to gain the following merit as well.

7 - The reciters of the Qur’an will be in the company of the noble and obedient angels.

‘Aa’ishah, may Allah be pleased with her, relates that the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) said: “Verily the one who recites the Qur’an beautifully, smoothly, and precisely, he will be in the company of the noble and obedient angels. And as for the one who recites with difficulty, stammering or stumbling through its verses, then he will have TWICE that reward.” [Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

8 - Your position in Paradise is determined by the amount of Qur’an you memorize in this life!


‘Abdullaah ibn ‘Amr ibn Al-’Aas heard the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) saying: “It will be said to the companion of the Qur’an: Read and elevate (through the levels of the Paradise) and beautify your voice as you used to do when you were in the dunyaa! For verily, your position in the Paradise will be at the last verse you recite!” [Aboo Daawood and At-Tirmithee, saheeh]

9 - The Qur’an will lead you to Paradise!

The Prophet said: “The Qur’an is an intercessor, something given permission to intercede, and it is rightfully believed in. Whoever puts it in front of him, it will lead him to Paradise; whoever puts it behind him, it will steer him to the Hellfire.” [An authentic hadith found in At-Tabaraanee, on the authority of ‘Abdullaah ibn Mas’ood]

Friday, September 14, 2007

How to Pray Taraweeh

Taraweeh prayer is prayed the same as Fajr prayer, and can be as many rakats as you like, as long as it is prayed 2 rakahs by 2 rakahs.

No Iqama (like the one you do for your 5 daily prayers) is said for Taraweeh.

Your intention at the beginning of the prayer is said silently, and you say: This is my intention to pray the sunnah prayer of Taraweeh.

It follows after Isha prayer and the Imam will call for the Taraweeh prayer, and you will pray the same as Fajr, following behind the Imam until the Imam completes the prayer. More info is available in the link below for guidance on following the Imam in prayer.

Normally the Quran is read, surah by surah, by the Imam in Taraweeh so that it is completed by the end of Ramadan.


Questions and Answers on Taraweeh
Question:Should we read the opening du’aa’ at the beginning of each two rak’ahs of taraaweeh prayers?.
Answer:Praise be to Allaah.
Yes, it is prescribed for you to recite the opening du’aa’ at the beginning of each two rak’ahs of taraaweeh prayer, and other naafil prayers, because of the general meaning of the evidence.
With regard to the opening du’aa’ in qiyaam al-layl in particular, the following words were narrated:
Laa illaha ill-Allaah (three times), Allaahu akbar (three times), Allaahu akbaru kabeera wa alhamdu Lillaahi katheera wa subhaan Allaahi bukratan wa aseela (There is no god but Allaah, Allaah is most Great, Allaah is most Great, much praise be to Allaah and glory be to Allaah at the beginning and end of the day).” A man from among the Sahaabah started his prayer with these words and the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “I was surpised, the gates of heaven have been opened for these words.”
Question:I wanted to know the difference between QIYYAM and TARAWIH.
Answer:Praise be to Allaah.
Salaat al-Taraaweeh is classified as part of qiyaam al-layl; they are not two different prayers, as many people think. Qiyaam al-layl during Ramadaan is called Taraaweeh because the salaf or early generations of Islam (may Allaah have mercy on them) used to rest (istaraahu) after every two or four rak’ahs, because they made their prayers long in order to make the most of this season of great reward. They were eager to earn the reward mentioned in the hadeeth: “Whoever stays up and prays at night in Ramadaan out of faith and in the hope of reward, all his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Reported by al-Bukhaari, no. 36). And Allaah knows best.
Question:Is there a difference between Witr prayer and the night prayer?.
Answer:Praise be to Allaah.
Witr prayer is part of the night prayer, but there is still a difference between them.
Shaykh Ibn Baaz (may Allaah have mercy on him) said:
Witr is part of the night prayer, and it is Sunnah and it is the end of the night prayer, one rak’ah with which one concludes the night prayers at the end of the night, or in the middle of the night, or at the beginning of the night after ‘Isha’ prayer. You pray whatever you can, then you conclude it with one rak’ah. End quote.
Fataawa Ibn Baaz, 11/309

For more Info on Following the Imam in Prayer please click the link below:

http://www.islamqa.com/index.php?ref=33790&ln=eng

Details of Fasting


A
Great Reward for Those Who Fast


The Prophet(sallalahu alayhi wasallm) said that your Lord said,

"Every (sinful) deed can be expiated; and the fast is for Me, so I will give the reward for it; and the smell which comes out of the mouth of a fasting person, is better in Allah's Sight than the smell of musk."

[Bukhari]


The Prophet(sallalahu alayhi wasallm) said,

"Allah said: The Fast is for Me and I will give the reward for it, as he (the one who observes the fast) leaves his sexual desire, food and drink for My Sake. Fasting is a screen (from Hell) and there are two pleasures (moments of happiness or joys) for a fasting person, one at the time of breaking his fast, and the other at the time when he will meet his Lord. And the smell of the mouth of a fasting person is better in Allah's Sight than the smell of musk."

[Bukhari]




The Prophet(sallalahu alayhi wasallm) said,

"(Allah said), 'Every good deed of Adam's son is for him except fasting; it is for Me. and I shall reward (the fasting person) for it.' Verily, the smell of the mouth of a fasting person is better to Allah than the smell of musk."

[Bukhari]



He(sallalahu alayhi wasallm) also said:

"Every action of the son of Adam is given manifold reward, each good deed receiving ten times its like, up to seven hundred times. Allah the Most High said: 'Except for fasting, for it is for Me and I will give recompense for it, he leaves off his desires and his food for Me'. For the fasting person there are two times of joy; a time of joy when he breaks his fast and a time of joy when he meets his Lord, and the smell coming from the mouth of the fasting person is better with Allah than the smell of Musk."

[Muslim]



"Verily, the Muslim men and women, the believing men and women, the men and women who are obedient (to Allah), the men and women who are truthful (in their speech and deeds), the men and women who are patient, the men and women who are humble (before their Lord), the men and women who give charity, the men and women who fast, the men and women who guard their chastity (from illegal sexual acts) and the men and women who remember Allah much. Allah has prepared for them forgiveness and a great reward (i.e. Paradise)."

[al-Ahzaab, 33:35]



Breaking of the Fast at Sunset


Anas Ibn Maalik said:
"The Prophet used to break his fast with fresh dates before he prayed. If he did not find fresh dates then he would use dried dates. If he did not find that also he drank a few sips of water.

[Ahmad and Abu Dawood]


The Prophet(sallalahu alayhi wasallm) said:

"Whoever gives someone something to break the fast with, he would hove The same blessings as the fasting person and this would not reduce the blessings of the fasting person in any way"
[Ahmad and Tirmidhee]



Sahl Ibn Sa'd said that the Messenger of Allah(sallalahu alayhi wasallm) said:

"The people will continue to be in good condition as long as they hasten to break the fast."

[Bukhaaree and Muslim]



The Reason We Fast


Allaah has mentioned the reason and wisdom behind His enjoining of fasting upon us, as He says (interpretation of the meaning):

“O you who believe! Observing As-Sawm (the fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqoon (the pious)”
[al-Baqarah 2:183]


Fasting is a means of attaining taqwa (piety, being conscious of Allaah), and taqwa means doing that which Allaah has enjoined and avoiding that which He has forbidden.
Fasting is one of the greatest means of helping a person to fulfil the commands of Islam.


Some Rules for Fasting


Fasting is obligatory on the mature sane and healthy Muslim. Those who are immature (i.e. young children) are encouraged to fast. Exempted are those who suffer terminal illness, or are too old to fast. Allah does not overburden His slaves.



  1. Permission to abstain from fasting is granted to the travelers who do not travel for the purpose of breaking their fast.
  2. As for those whose sickness does not allow them to fast, they fall into three categories:
    a. If it is neither hard nor harmful for them, they must observe fasting.
    b. If it is hard, but not harmful for them, they are permitted to break their fast.
    c. If it is harmful for them, then they must abstain from fasting.
  3. During the monthly period or period of post-natal bleeding, women are to abstain from fasting,but must make up the days they missed after the fasting month is over. The Pregnant or breastfeeding woman whose health or the health of the suckling baby might be affected by fasting should break her fast and make up the missed days after Ramadhaan.
  4. Performing the other acts of worship and duties is most important, and salaah is of particular importance, as without it no other act of worship is accepted by Allah.
  5. Refraining from bad behavior such as lying, cheating music, smoking, backbiting and slandering others to create animosity among backbiting and slandering others to create animosity among them. The Prophet( sallalahu alayhi wasallm) said, “ No slanderer shall enter paradise.”
  6. Taking the meal of suhoor. The prophet (sallalahu alayhi wasallm)said: “ Take (the meal of) suhoor because there is blessing in it.” He(sallalahu alayhi wasallm) also said: “ The difference between our fasting and that of the people of the book is taking the meal of suhoor.”