Monday, August 17, 2009
Ramadan booklet
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FOREWORD
In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful
All praise is due to Allah (SWT), the Almighty. We all praise Him, seek
His Help, and ask His Forgiveness. We seek refuge with Him from the
evil of our souls, and from our sinful deeds. He whom Allah (SWT)
guides, no one can misguide him, and whoever Allah (SWT) misguides,
no one can guide him. I bear witness that there is no deity worthy of
worship but Allah (SWT), and I bear witness that Muhammad (pbuh) is
truly His servant and Messenger.
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ISLAMIC_KNOWLEDGE TEAM
HOW TO make the most of
Ramadan
in the light of Al-Qur’an and Authentic Hadith
“O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed
to you as it was prescribed to those
before you, so that you may learn
self-restraint”(Al-Qur’an 2:183)
FASTING IN RAMADAN
Ramadan (Sawm) is one of the five pillars of Islam and the ninth month of
the Muslim calendar. The meaning of Sawm is to ‘abstain’. In this month,
Allah Subhana Wa Taala (SWT) has made it compulsory that the fasting
be observed by day, and he has made the ‘Taraweeh’ (Ramadan nightly
prayer) a ‘Sunnah’. Fasting is to abstain from eating, drinking, smoking and
conjugal relations from dawn till sunset.
The Prophet (pbuh) said, “There is a gate in Paradise called Ar-
Raiyan, and those who observe fasting will enter through it on the
Day of Resurrection and none except them will enter through it”.
(Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 120)
During the month of Ramadan, the Prophet (pbuh) used to apportion to
Ramadan a degree of worship that was not set aside to any other month.
The Prophet (pbuh) spent his day in remembrance, recitation, learning and
providing advice and training. His nights were spent in supplication and
humiliation unto Allah (SWT), seeking His help, support, victory and
guidance.
The Prophet (pbuh) said, “If someone draws near to Allah during
Ramadan with some good act he will be like one who fulfils an
obligatory duty in another month, and he who fulfils an obligatory
duty in it will be like one who fulfils seventy obligatory duties in
another month”. (Tirmidhi Hadith 1965)
Fasting earns great reward as clearly stated in the above Hadith. When
Allah (SWT) rewards an action as purely His, then the reward is limitless.
The Prophet (pbuh) said that Allah (SWT), the Majestic and the
Exalted, said “All actions a human being does are for himself except
fasting. It is done for My sake, and I will give a reward for it and the
reward of good deeds is multiplied 10 times”. (Sahih Bukhari Volume
3, Book 31, Number 118, & Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2564)
Ramadan is an annual training programme to refresh us for carrying out
our duties towards Allah (SWT). Fasting develops self-control and helps us
to overcome selfishness, greed, laziness and other faults. This month of
patience gives us an opportunity to experience for ourselves what it is like
to have an empty stomach. This develops our feeling for the poor and
hungry people. Fasting teaches us to control the love of comfort.
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If difficulty is experienced in fasting, one should bear it cheerfully and not
complain. Should we feel fatigued at the time of Taraweeh (Ramadan nightly
prayer), this too should be borne with fortitude.
It should also be borne in mind that fasting does not aim at inflicting
punishment upon people or taking on unbearable burdens. The underlying
idea behind it is to teach moderation and spiritual discipline so that human
temptations may not become so wild and uncontrollable as to flout the
commands of the Great Master. To be a true servant of Allah (SWT), it is
essential that man should be able to conform his behaviour to the moral and
spiritual discipline embodied in the Shari'ah of Islam. Fasting is
indispensable for this moral and spiritual training.
The Prophet (pbuh) said, “When the month of Ramadan starts, the
gates of mercy are opened and the gates of Hell are locked and the
devils are chained”. (Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2361)
The hadith below gives some very important points regarding Ramadan:
The Prophet (pbuh) said "Fasting is a shield or protection from the fire
and from committing sins. If one is fasting, he should avoid sexual
relation with his wife and quarrelling, and if somebody should fight or
quarrel with him, he should say, 'I am fasting.' There are two pleasures
for the fasting person, one at the time of breaking his fast, and other at
the time when he will meet Allah; then he will be pleased because of
his fasting." (Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 128)
In this month, the rebellious ‘Shayateen’ (Satans) are chained, so as not to
provoke those evils which they normally do during months other than
Ramadan. A question may arise here that, when the ‘Shayateen’ are
chained, how it is that we still do see evil committed? The reply is that evil
may not necessarily be caused by the rebellious ‘Shayateen’. People have
for eleven months lived in obedience to ‘Shayateen’ whims and wishes, and
so performing evil deeds instigated by them becomes second nature.
Consequently, evil is being done in and out of Ramadan.
Therefore the feelings and lessons we experience should stay with us
throughout the year. In Al-Qur’an, Muslims are commanded to fast so that
they may "become pious". This piety and devotion is especially felt during
Ramadan, but we all must strive to make the feelings and attitude stay with
us during our "normal" lives. That is the true goal and test of Ramadan.
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The Prophet (pbuh) said, “Every servant of Allah who observes fast for a
day in the way of Allah, Allah would remove, because of this day, his
face farther from the Fire of Hell to the extent of seventy years'
distance”. (Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2570)
Fasting is the way to piety and the fear of God. Fasting narrows the food and
blood arteries. They are known to be canals of the devils, hence fasting
reduces their insinuation. It further weakens carnal desires, thoughts and
temptations of disobedience.
Fasting enhances bodily health. It gets rid of contaminated matter, eases the
stomach, purifies the blood, eases the working of the heart, brightens the
spirit, refines the soul and disciplines the character. When an individual fasts,
his soul is humbled and his carnal desires are dispelled. There is a great
reward for fasting, as it shows a Muslim obeying Allah (SWT) and submitting
to His command.
FASTING IN THE MONTH OF SHA'BAN
The Prophet (pbuh) used to fast till one would say he would never stop
fasting, and he would abandon fasting till one would say he would never
fast. I never saw the Prophet fasting for a whole month except the
month of Ramadan, and did not see him fasting in any month more than
in the month of Shaban.(Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 190)
The Prophet (pbuh) has told us not to fast one or two days before Ramadan
as we need to keep our physical and spiritual strength to make the most of
this blessed month.
The Prophet (pbuh) said, "None of you should fast a day or two before
the month of Ramadan unless he has habit of fasting (Nawafil) (and if
his fasting coincides with that day) then he can fast that day."
(Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, No.138, Muslim, Book 006, Number 2382)
We should try our best to keep some fasts in Shaban.
The Prophet (pbuh) is reported to have asked one of the Companions
“Did you fast in the middle of Sha'ban?” The Companion replied, “No”.
Thereupon the Prophet (pbuh) said: “If you did not observe fast, then
you should observe fast for two days”.
(Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2607)
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THE WISDOM BEHIND FASTING
Fasting in Ramadan is not merely physically restraining from the obvious food
and drink, but the total commitment of the servant's body and soul to the letter
and spirit of fasting.
1) The fast of the self, means to be free from all carnal desires.
2) The fast of mind is avoiding thoughts about things other than Allah (SWT).
3) The fast of the hand is not touching/taking what does not belong to it.
4) The fast of the nose means not sniffing or smelling unlawful things.
5) The fast of the feet is not going places where sinful acts are propagated.
6) The fast of the eye is to prevent it from seeing forbidden things.
Allah (SWT) says in Al-Qur’an, “Tell the believing men to lower their
gaze and be mindful of their chastity; this will be most conducive to
their purity. And tell the believing women to lower their gaze and be
mindful of their chastity, and not display their charms (in public) beyond
what may (decently) be apparent thereof, hence let them draw their
head-covering over their bosoms”. (Al-Qur’an 24:30-31)
7) The fast of the tongue is guarding against lying, backbiting, slandering,
reviling, abusing others, cursing, indecent conversation, swearing and false
evidence. The Prophet (pbuh) said: “A Muslim is he from whose tongue and
hands other Muslims are safe”.
The Prophet (pbuh) said, “"Whoever does not give up forged speech
and evil actions, Allah is not in need of his leaving his food and drink
(i.e. Allah will not accept his fasting.)"
(Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 127)
8) The fast of the ears is not to listen to idle talk, gossip, lyrics and notes that
contain obscene and indecent things. Listening to Al-Qur’an bears the fruit of
faith, guidance, light and prosperity. It fills the heart with wisdom, tranquillity,
intimacy and contentment. It is a source of protection from the dangerous,
deviant and sinful thoughts.
9) The fast of the heart means casting out from it the love of worldly things
and by emptying it of all corrupt material such as, false beliefs, evil
suggestions, filthy intentions and degenerate thoughts.
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The Prophet (pbuh) said: “There is a piece of flesh in the body if it
becomes good (reformed) the whole body becomes good but if it gets
spoilt the whole body gets spoilt and that is the heart.”
(Sahih Bukhari, Volume 1, Book 2, Number 49)
The believer’s heart abstains from pride and egotism as these traits breaks its
fast. Egotism is when the individual sees himself as perfect and better than
others. The cure for this self-importance is to look at one’s faults and shortcomings,
thousands of sins and misdeeds that one has committed, wrongs that
one has done and forgotten, but knowledge of which are with Allah (SWT).
Allah (SWT) says in Al-Qur’an, “do they, perchance, envy other people for
what God has granted them out of his bounty?” (Al-Qur’an 4:54)
The heart of the believer fasts and abstains from envy as envy lowers
righteous deeds and stops its progress toward Allah (SWT).
AVOIDANCE OF THINGS THAT CONTRADICT SPIRIT OF FASTING
Allah (SWT) says in Al-Qur’an, “Eat and drink (freely), but do not waste:
verily, He does not love the wasteful!” (Al-Qur’an 7:31)
Some people who fast waste money on meals both at the beginning and the
breaking of the fast in Ramadan. They prepare food enough for a crowd of
people consisting of numerous dishes. Then, at the end of this, they only eat a
little and throw the remainder into the refuse. This is contrary to the great
teachings of Islam.
There are other people who fill the stomach with delicious foods at “Sehri”, so
that one does not feel hungry until “Iftaar”. When opening their fast, they
indulge in excessive eating and drinking. This however, defeats the purpose of
fasting, one of which is to empty the stomach of all contaminated material by
reducing the intake of food.
Many people spend their fasting hours sleeping. As a result it seems as if they
did not fast. The wisdom of fasting is that the one who fasts should experience
pangs of hunger and savour thirst in order to gain the pleasure of Allah (SWT).
There are also people who make no effort to do good by giving charity. They
do not honour their tables by allowing others to break their fast with them.
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WHAT DOES AND DOESN’T BREAK THE FAST
The Prophet (pbuh) said:” Neither vomiting, nor emission, nor cupping
breaks the fast.” (Abu Dawud, Book 13, Number 2370)
There are certain things that break a person’s fast, the most obvious being
those things that are explicitly forbidden during fasting, i.e. eating, drinking,
sexual relations and during menstruation, for females. However, if one eats
something forgetfully, then this fast does not have to be made up:
The Prophet said, "If somebody eats something forgetfully while he is
fasting, then he should complete his fast, for Allah has made him eat and
drink." (Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 154)
In terms of applying medicine, there is nothing which prevents us from using
such as long as it is not entered through the mouth or nose:
The Prophet (pbuh) said, "I have a complaint in my eyes, so may I apply
collyrium while I am fasting?" He replied, "Yes." (Tirmidhi Hadith 2010)
A certain degree of affection is allowed between spouses as this Hadith shows:
'A'isha reported, “The Prophet (pbuh) used to kiss me while observing
fast and who among you can control his desire as the Prophet (pbuh)
could control his desire.” (Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2438)
However, the Prophet (pbuh) did report the following Hadith:
A man asked the Prophet (pbuh) whether one who was fasting could
embrace (his wife) and he gave him permission; but when another man
came to him, and asked him, he forbade him. The one to whom he gave
permission was an old man and the one whom he forbade was a youth.
(Abu Dawud, Book 13, Number 2381)
WHAT A SICK MAN DOES WHEN FASTING
There are some situations when a person can break their fast.
"If a man succumbs to an illness which makes fasting very difficult for
him and exhausts him and wears him out, he can break his fast.
(Muwatta, Book 18, Number 18.15.41)
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FASTING WHILST TRAVELLING
Hamza bin 'Amr Al-Aslami asked the Prophet, "Should I fast while
travelling?" The Prophet replied, "You may fast if you wish, and you may
not fast if you wish." (Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 164)
Fasting whilst travelling is optional, so there is no sin on the one who chooses
not to fast whilst on a journey if they feel that it will weaken them. Allah (SWT)
has allowed man not to fast, whilst travelling because He knows that his
slaves may not be able to cope.
Anas reported “We were with the Prophet (pbuh) on a journey. Some of
us had been observing the fast and some of us had not been fasting. We
got down at a place on a hot day. Most of us had the cloth for shelter.
There were also those amongst us who sheltered themselves against the
rays of the sun with the help of their hands. The observers of the fast fell
down (on account of weakness). Those who had not observed it got up
and pitched tents and watered the mounts. Thereupon the Prophet
(pbuh) said “The breakers of the fast have taken away the reward today”.
(Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2484)
RECITATION OF AL-QUR’AN DURING RAMADAN
Allah (SWT) says in Al-Qur’an, “Ramadan is the (month) in which was
sent down Al-Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for
guidance and judgement (Between right and wrong)”. (Al-Qur’an 2:185)
The entire month of Ramadan is in essence a celebration of Al-Qur’an’s
revelation, which is described as a “Guide and Mercy for those who do
good.” (Al-Qur’an 31:3). Ramadan celebrates God’s Mercy by which He sent
a guiding light in Al-Qur’an that leads human life towards the path of good and
virtue and protects the human soul from evil and vice. Al-Qur’an is life, spirit,
salvation, happiness, reward and recompense. It is a divine teaching, a
constitution and eternal wisdom.
Prophet (pbuh) said, “Read Al-Qur’an for surely it will be an intercessor
for you on the Day of Judgement”. (Sahih Muslim Book 4 No 1757)
In his final year, the Prophet (pbuh) recited the Al-Qur’an twice in Ramadan.
Muslims should try to read the entire Al-Qur’an at least once during Ramadan.
Many others read or recite Al-Qur’an during Taraweeh Prayers (Ramadan
nightly prayers), which are held only during Ramadan, or in private late night
Prayers called Tahajjud.
However the common practice these days is that Taraweeh prayers are
rushed in order to complete Al-Qur’an. This goes against the teaching of
Islam as Allah (SWT) says in Al-Qur’an: “and recite Al-Qur’an in slow,
measured rhythmic tones.” (73:4). Commenting on this Ibn Kathir says this
means “recite it slowly, for that will help in understanding Al-Qur’an and
contemplating it. This is how the Prophet (pbuh) used to recite”. Although it is
desirable to complete Al-Qur’an in Ramadan to follow the sunnah, it should
be read with understanding and contemplation in order to draw closer to Allah
(SWT) by increasing our guidance insh’Allah.
The Prophet (pbuh) said "Fast three days a month." 'Abdullah said, "I
am able to fast more than that." They kept on arguing on this matter till
the Prophet (pbuh) said, "Fast on alternate days, and recite the whole
Qur'an once a month." 'Abdullah said, "I can recite more (in a month),"
and the argument went on till the Prophet (pbuh) said, "Recite the
Qur'an once each three days." (i.e. you must not recite the whole Qur'an
in less than three days). (Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, No. 199)
Therefore we are encouraged to read Al-Qur’an often but should not try to
complete it in less than seven days as we should be learning from it and
implementing Allah (SWT)’s commands and laws into our lives. Therefore we
should not just read it without meaning.
Muslims who cannot read Arabic well, should spend some time each day
listening to a tape or CD of Al-Qur’an being recited. Muslims consider
Ramadan to be a good time to get into the habit of reading at least some of
Al-Qur’an or its translation every day, and if they haven’t read either of them
cover to cover, Ramadan is the time to do it.
TARAWEEH PRAYER
The Prophet (pbuh) said: "Whoever observes night prayer in Ramadan
as an expression of his faith and to seek reward from Allah, his
previous sins will be blotted out”.
(Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 32, Number 226)
Because of the great reward for feeding a fasting person, in many places
‘Iftaar’(the breaking of the fast at sunset) is served in mosques, with the
food donated or brought by individuals to share. This contact between the
various levels of society helps to create a real bond of brotherhood in the
Muslim community.
The Prophet (pbuh) said, “When a man dies all of his deeds come to
an end, except for three: ongoing charity, knowledge which is
benefited from, or pious offspring who pray for them.”
(Sahih Muslim, Book 013, Number 4005)
The Prophet (pbuh) enjoined Zakaah on those who fast to purify them
from any indecent act or deeds. It is a sort of purification of the soul on the
individual level, a cure against miserliness, and a social safety net. The
rich are obliged to come in contact with the poor and the poor with the
even less fortunate. Zakaah provides for the poor and spares them the
humiliation of asking for charity.
HOW THE BLESSED MONTH RAMADAN STARTS
The Prophet (pbuh) said, “Do not fast till you see the new moon, and
do not break fast till you see it, but if the weather is cloudy calculate
about it.” (Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2363 )
It is very important to start the best month in the Islamic year correctly. It is
very clear in Al-Qur’an and Sunnah that we should look for the moon and if
it is sighted then the month has started. It is also clear that we should look
for the moon in our own country of residence as stated in the hadith below:
Umm Fadl said, “I saw the new moon (of Ramadan) on Friday”.
Abdullah b. 'Abbas (Allah be pleased with him) asked me (about the
new moon of Ramadan) and said “When did you see it?” I said “We
saw it on the night of Friday”. He said “Did you see it yourself?” I
said “Yes” and the people also saw it and they observed fast and
Mu'awiya also observed fast, whereupon he said “But we saw it on
Saturday night. So we would continue to observe fast till we
complete thirty (fasts) or we see it (the new moon of Shawwal)”. I
said “Is the sighting of the moon by Mu'awiya not valid for you?” He
said “No, this is how The Prophet (pbuh) has commanded us”.
(Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2391)
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Muslims should during this month make an extra effort to perform Taraweeh
Prayer (Ramadan nightly prayer), preferably in congregation. Taraweeh has a
special merit over other nights. Taraweeh is part of physical and spiritual
training, for its observation soon after Iftaar insures timely and proper digestion
of food. There are also spiritual rewards awaiting the observers of this prayer. It
must be mentioned here that Taraweeh prayers, although very beneficial to
read, are not compulsory as stated by the Prophet (pbuh) himself.
'A'isha reported that Prophet (pbuh) prayed one night in the mosque and
people also prayed along with him. He then prayed on the following night
and there were many persons. Then on the third or fourth night (many
people) gathered there, but the Prophet (pbuh) did not come out to them
(for leading the Tarawih prayer). When it was morning he said: “I saw what
you were doing, but I desisted to come to you (and lead the prayer) for I
feared that this prayer might become obligatory for you”. (He the narrator)
said: It was the month of Ramadan.
(Sahih Bukhari, Volume 2, Book 13, Number 46)
CHARITY IN RAMADAN
It is reported that “The Prophet (pbuh) was naturally the most generous of
people and he used to be more generous than ever in the month of
Ramadan”. (Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 126)
Allah (SWT) has given you, so Muslims should try to give generously in
Ramadan, both Sadaqah (optional charity) and Zakaah (obligatory charity).
Every time a servant of Allah (SWT) gives something in charity Allah (SWT)
eases his physical, spiritual and mental conditions. He expands for him His
sustenance. Sadaqah does not only have to be money. It can also be a good
deed—such as helping another person—done for the sake of Allah (SWT) and
without expecting any reward from the person. Even a smile is considered
charity in Islam. Most Muslims pay their Zakaah during Ramadan because the
reward is so much greater in that month. Wealth is like water, if its flow is
obstructed it becomes brackish, and if it flows, it becomes sweet and fresh.
The Prophet (pbuh) said “This is the month of charity in which believer’s
sustenance is increased. Whosoever feeds a fasting person or gives a
fasting person a single date or a sip of water, to break the fast, for him
there shall be forgiveness of his sins and he will be saved from the fire of
hell, and for him shall be the same reward as for him (whom he fed)”.
(Tirmidhi Hadith 1965)
ETTIQUETTES OF RAMADAN
The Prophet (pbuh) said “He who does not determine to fast before
dawn does not fast”. (Abu Dawud, Book 13, Number 2448)
We should try our best to get up for Sehri.
The Prophet (pbuh) said, “Eat a little before dawn (Sehri) as there is
blessings in taking meal at that time.”
(Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2412)
Many people are deprived of this great blessing because of their own
laziness. Even if there is no food, then one date should be eaten or a drink of
water taken. The period before dawn is considered blessed because it is in
the last third of the night, the time of divine descent and forgiveness. It is
another special time when du’as are accepted.
Some time should be left after taking the suhoor and before the Fajr adhan /
prayer:
"We took the suhur with the Prophet (pbuh) . Then he stood for the
prayer." I asked, "What was the interval between the suhur and the
Adhan?" He replied, "The interval was sufficient to recite fifty verses of
the Quran." (Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 144)
It is also narrated that even when the Fajr adhan was made, it was not
necessarily the time to stop eating because the true dawn arises when the
streaks of the whiteness of dawn are horizontal. However these days this is
difficult to ascertain in some countries and in these circumstances we should
keep enough time to eat to be confident that we are not eating when dawn
appears.
The Prophet (pbuh) said, “The adhan of Bilal may not mislead you with
regard to your food at the commencement of the fast, nor the vertical
(streaks) of whiteness in the horizon (for it is an indication of false
dawn). You should stop eating (food) till (the whiteness) spreads like it.
Hammad narrated it and with the gesture of his band he explained, the
horizontal position (of the streaks of light).”
(Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2409)
We should hasten to break our fasts.
The Prophet (pbuh) said, “The people will remain on right path as long as
they hasten breaking of the fast (Iftaar). (Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book
31, Number 178 & Muslim, Book 006, Number 2417)
To eat dates to break one’s fast is a Sunnah.
The Prophet (pbuh) said “When one of you is fasting, he should break his
fast with dates, but if he cannot get any, then (he should break his fast)
with water, for water is purifying”. (Abu Dawud, Book 13, Number 2348)
It is also very important that we do not delay the Maghrib salah unnecessarily
and pray soon after breaking the fast.
Abu 'Atiyya reported “I and Misruq went to 'A'isha (Allah be pleased with
her) and Masruq said to her “There are two persons among the
Companions of Muhammad (pbuh) none of whom abandons the good, but
one of them hastens to observe sunset prayer and break the fast, and the
other delays in observing the sunset prayer and in breaking the fast”,
whereupon she said “Who hastens to observe sunset prayer and break the
fast?” He said “It is 'Abdullah”. Upon this she said “This is how The
Prophet (pbuh) used to do. (Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2419)
It is a Sunnah to use Miswaak.
“The Prophet (pbuh) chewed Miswaak while fasting".
(Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 154)
It is recommended to take care of the mouth, teeth and gums all the time, and
more so during fasting. This can be achieved by the use of Miswaak, a special
stick or root (from Arak tree) that is used to cleanse the teeth and strengthen the
gums.
The breath of the observer of fast is sweeter to Allah (SWT) than the
fragrance of musk”. (Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 118 &
Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2564)
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DU’AS OF A FASTING PERSON
The Prophet (pbuh) said, “There are three whose supplication is not
rejected, one who has just ended a fast, a just imam, and one who has
been wronged whose supplication is raised by Allah above the clouds
and for which the gates of Heaven are opened. Allah says, 'I swear by My
might that I shall certainly help you, though it be after some time.'"
(Tirmidhi Hadith 2248)
The du’as of a fasting person is never refused. The final hour before the setting
of the sun is one of the greatest hours of the day. Therefore submit before Allah
(SWT) all your needs. However Muslims are generally so absorbed in eating
that we neglect this opportunity.
The Prophet (pbuh) informed us that when a fasting Muslim prays for anything
from Allah (SWT), he definitely receives one out of the following three things:
He gets exactly what he asked for. Or Allah (SWT) either removes from his
path some great calamity in exchange for what he desired. Or the reward for
that which he prayed for is stored for the Hereafter.
Therefore, du’a is indeed very important, and to neglect it at any time is a
matter of great loss. Should Allah (SWT) find that granting us what we beseech
from Him is in our welfare and interest, He grants it, otherwise not. It should be
borne in mind that there are certain conditions under which du’as are accepted,
in the absence of these, du’a may be often rejected. When ‘Haraam’ is
consumed, the du’as are not accepted. A person who fasts and breaks his fast
with “Haraam” food, is like a sick person, who takes medicine as a cure, but
also adds a little poison, which destroys him.
ASKING FORGIVENESS IN RAMADAN
The Prophet (pbuh) said “Let there be smeared with dust the nose of the
person in whose presence I am mentioned, and he does not invoke
blessing upon me, the one who has opportunity to see the month of
Ramadan and it comes to an end without his securing pardon for himself
and one who finds alive his aged parents, both of them or one of them,
and through them (by serving them) he does not enter Paradise.”
(Tirmidhi Hadith 927)
By this the Prophet (pbuh) meant the person who in Ramadan, the month of
blessings and righteousness, who still spends the days in sin and disregards
his duties, thus he doesn’t gain forgiveness.
If he cannot gain Allah (SWT)’s pleasure in Ramadan, then when will he do
so? The way to seek Allah (SWT)’s pardon for his sins is to fulfil his
obligations in Ramadan as enjoined by Allah (SWT) such as fasting, offering
‘Taraweeh’ prayers and repentance on past sins. Those who are sincere with
Allah (SWT) will find that all their sins throughout the year will be forgiven in
Ramadan, if they avoid major sins. Even the fish in the sea seek forgiveness
on their behalf until they break their fast.
The Prophet (pbuh) termed the first 10 days of Ramadan as period of Mercy,
whereby Allah (SWT)’s mercy is showered on the believers. Those who
express their gratitude to Allah (SWT) for his bounties, receive them in large
measure as Allah (SWT) says in Al-Qur’an says,
"If you are grateful, I will add more (favours) unto you, But if you show
ingratitude, truly My punishment is terrible indeed." (Al-Quran 14:7)
The second 10 days of Ramadan is when forgiveness is granted to the
believers as reward for the fasting during the first part. The last 10 days of
Ramadan brings immunity from Hell. In Ramadan, you should endeavour to
perform three things in great number:
1) ‘Kalima Tayyiba’ (Laa ilaha illala hu muhamadur rasulullah). If the seven
heavens, the earth and all its occupants were placed in one pan of a scale and
this ‘Kalima’ on the other, the ‘Kalima’ would outweigh everything.
2) ‘Istighfaar’ (Beg for Allah (SWT)’s forgiveness). Whoever says a great deal
of ‘Istighfaar’, Allah (SWT) opens a way out for him from all difficulties and
releases him from sorrows.
3) Beg for entry into Paradise and seek refuge with Allah (SWT) from the fire
of ‘Jahannam’ (Hell).
LAYLATUL QADR (NIGHT OF POWER)
Allah (SWT) says in Al-Qur’an, “There is a night in the month which is ...
better than a thousand months". (Al-Qur’an 97:3)
The night of “Laylatul Qadr” is described as being greater in blessedness and
spiritual virtue than 1,000 months. Therefore fortunate is that person who
attains the full blessings of this night by spending it in the worship of Allah
(SWT).
Page 13 Page 14
The Prophet (pbuh) said, “Seek Laylatul Qadr in the last ten nights. If one
among you shows slackness and weakness in the earlier part of
Ramadan, it should not be allowed to prevail upon him in last week”.
(Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2621)
During the last third of Ramadan, one should read more of Al-Qur’an and
remember Allah (SWT) more often, even constantly. For Muslims, the last ten
days should be a time to perfect one’s fast and avoid anything that may break
it. It is a time to give more charity and to settle disputes and forgive one
another. It is also a time for soul searching, evaluating one’s life, supplicating,
and asking forgiveness. This should be done sincerely because if Allah (SWT)
accepts the supplications, the reward is the remission of one’s sins. The best
time to do it is in the last part of the night.
The Prophet (pbuh) said, “When the last one third of the night remains,
Allah, the Glorious One, descends towards the lower heaven and
proclaims “Is there anyone supplicating to Me, so that I grant his
supplication? Is there anyone begging of Me for anything, so that I grant
him his wish? Is there anyone who seeks My forgiveness, so I forgive
him?” (Sahih Bukhari, Volume 8, Book 75, Number 333)
Allah (SWT) has concealed the exact date of the Night of Power so that we
would double our efforts during the last ten days. He is also testing the serious
and the non-serious. The seriously interested person will search for it late at
night and in the early hours until he or she attains it, regardless of the hardship.
The Prophet (pbuh) said, “Whoever stands in prayers and worships on
the night of Power, with complete faith and sincere hope of gaining
reward, all his previous sins are forgiven”.
(Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 32, Number 226)
It is recommended to seek the night and spend it diligently in devotion,
including night Sunnah prayers (Tahajjud) and recitation of Al-Qur'an. This
citation indicates that regardless of whether a person knows the night or not
Allah (SWT) will grant forgiveness for previous shortcomings.
The Prophet (pbuh) used to exert himself in devotion during the last ten
nights to a greater extent than at any other time.
(Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2644)
During this time, he limited his contact with people and intensified his
supplications and du’as to Allah (SWT). The Prophet (pbuh) did this in order to
attune his heart even more with Allah (SWT) and to free his mind from the
concerns of the world.
With the start of the last ten days of Ramadan, The Prophet (pbuh) used to
work hard and used to offer Salaat (prayers) all the night, and used to keep
his family awake for the Salaat (prayers).
(Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 32, Number 241)
ITIKAAF
The Prophet (pbuh) mentioned that he would practice Itikaf in the last ten
days of Ramadan. 'Aisha asked his permission to perform Itikaf and he
permitted her. (Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 33, Number 261)
It used to be the general practice of the Prophet (pbuh) to perform Itikaaf
(secluding oneself in the Mosque) in the Holy month of Ramadhan.
The Prophet (pbuh) used to observe Itikaf during the last ten days of
Ramadan. One year he did not observe Itikaf. When the next year came, he
observed Itikaf for twenty nights (i.e. days).
(Abu Dawud, Book 13, Number 2457)
COMPENSATION FOR FASTS MISSED IN RAMADAN
Allah (SWT) has stated very clearly the action to be taken if there is a valid
excuse for missing a fast of Ramadan.
Allah (SWT) says in Al-Qur’an, “(Observing Saum – fasts, for a fixed
number of days, but if any of you is ill or on a journey, the same number
(should be made up) from other days. And as for those who can fast with
difficulty, (e.g. an old man, etc.), they have (a choice either to fast or) to
feed a Miskeen (poor person) (for every day). But whoever does good of
his own accord, it is better for him. And that you fast, it is better for you if
only you knew.” (Al-Qur’an 2:184)
In addition to the sick and the old, the Prophet (pbuh) also mentioned other
categories of people that are allowed to miss a fast of Ramadan:
Page 15 Page 16
Allah has remitted half the prayer to a traveller, and fasting to the traveller,
the woman who is suckling an infant and the woman who is pregnant, I
swear by Allah, he (the Prophet (pbuh) mentioned both (i.e. suckling and
pregnant women) or one of them.
(Abu Dawud, Book 13, Number 2402)
However if someone misses a fast without a valid reason then even if he fasts
for the rest of his life, he will not be able to make up this one fast:
The Prophet (pbuh) said: “If anyone breaks his fast one day in Ramadan
without a concession granted to him by Allah, a perpetual fast will not
atone for it.” (Abu Dawud, Book 13, Number 2390)
Prophet (pbuh) stated the action to take for one who broke a fast in Ramadan.
A man broke the fast in Ramadan and the Prophet (pbuh), ordered him to
make kaffara by freeing a slave, or fasting two consecutive months, or
feeding sixty poor people, and he said, "I can't do it." Someone brought a
large basket of dates to the Prophet, and he said, "Take this and give it
away as sadaqa." He said, "Prophet (pbuh), there is none more needy than
I am." The Prophet (pbuh), laughed until his eye-teeth appeared, and then
he said, "Eat them." (Muwatta, Book 18, Number 18.9.28 )
If in Ramadan, any of the days of fasting were missed, they must be made up
for before the next Ramadan. Muslims generally should try to make up for them
as soon as possible because any days that are missed are considered as a debt
to Allah (SWT).
The Prophet (pbuh) said, "Whoever died and he ought to have fasted (the
missed days of Ramadan) then his guardians must fast on his behalf."
(Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 173)
FASTING IN SHAWWAL
The Prophet (pbuh) said, "Whoever observes the Ramadan fast and
follows it with six days of fast in Shawwal, it is as if he has fasted Dahr
(the whole year)”. (Sahih Muslim, Book 006, Number 2614)
Shawwal is the tenth month in the lunar calendar. The first of Shawwal is Eid- ul-
Fitr. After the festivity of Eid it is recommended to observe six days of fast. This
fast may be observed continuously non-break, or it may be observed one day at
a time. Page 17 Page 18
DU’AS FOR BREAKING THE FAST
...... ...... .. .... ........ .......... .......... ...... .... ......
Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa bika aamantu wa 'ala rizq-ika aftarthu
(O Allah! I fasted for You and I believe in You and I break my fast with Your
sustenance)
(Abu Dawud, Book 13, Number 2351)
........... .. ...... ....... ... ..... ....... ...... ......... .. ..........
dhahabadh-dhama'u wab-tallatil 'uruuqi, wa thabatal arju inshaAllah
(The thirst is gone, the veins are moistened and the reward is confirmed, if
Allah Wills)
(Abu Dawud, Book 13, Number 2350)
Saturday, May 10, 2008
العناية بالأولاد
Summary
1) Raising children is an obligation
2) Seeking a righteous wife and a righteous husband
3) Invocations by husband and wife and asking Allah to make their children righteous
4) The messenger (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) teaches Amru Ibnu Salama
5) Justice between children
FIRST KHUTBA
O People fear Allah in all your situations. For Allah's fearfulness and cautiousness is the best characteristic that you could have in your life and take provisions for the day of return and preserve the advice and orders from Allah to you regarding your children for they are the greatest trust. Your wives and your children are amana - trusts - from Allah and those who take good care of trusts are among the inheritors of Paradise.
Allah says:
وَٱلَّذِينَ هُمْ لاِمَـٰنَـٰتِهِمْ وَعَهْدِهِمْ رٰعُونَ وَٱلَّذِينَ هُمْ عَلَىٰ صَلَوٰتِهِمْ يُحَـٰفِظُونَ أُوْلَـئِكَ هُمُ ٱلْوٰرِثُونَ ٱلَّذِينَ يَرِثُونَ ٱلْفِرْدَوْسَ هُمْ فِيهَا خَـٰلِدُونَ [المؤمنون:8-11]
"Those who faithfully true to their trust and duties and to their covenants and those who strictly guard their prayers these are indeed are inheritors who shall inherit paradise they shall dwell therein forever"(Mu’minun: 8-11).
Servants of Allah, Allah says (about inheritance):
يُوصِيكُمُ ٱللَّهُ فِى أَوْلَـٰدِكُمْ [سورة النساء:11]
"Allah commands you as regards your children"(An-Nisa’: 11).
Do everything in your power to protect yourself and your dependents from the fire. He Subhanahu Wa Taala says:
يٰأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءامَنُواْ قُواْ أَنفُسَكُمْ وَأَهْلِيكُمْ نَاراً وَقُودُهَا ٱلنَّاسُ وَٱلْحِجَارَةُ عَلَيْهَا مَلَـئِكَةٌ غِلاَظٌ شِدَادٌ لاَّ يَعْصُونَ ٱللَّهَ مَا أَمَرَهُمْ وَيَفْعَلُونَ مَا يُؤْمَرُون [التحريم:6]
"O You who have believed word off yourselves and your families against a fire whose fuel is men and stones over which are angels stern and severe who disobey not from executing the commands they receive from Allah, but do that which they are commanded"(At-Tahreem: 6).
It is not enough to practice your deen yourself. Especially for the head of every household. Rather, Allah has ordered us to be persistent, patient and steadfast in commanding all those under our custody to fulfill their covenant to Allah completely. This is our FIRST concern, before even wondering where we will get sustenance to feed our dependents. Additionally Allah Subhanahu Wa Taala says:
وَأْمُرْ أَهْلَكَ بِٱلصَّلوٰةِ وَٱصْطَبِرْ عَلَيْهَا لاَ نَسْأَلُكَ رِزْقاً نَّحْنُ نَرْزُقُكَ وَٱلْعَـٰقِبَةُ لِلتَّقْوَىٰ [طه:132]
"Enjoin prayer on your family and be patient in offering them, we ask not of you a provision, we provide for you and the good end is for the pious"(Taha: 132).
Allah commanded you as regards to your children to properly raise them, encouraging obedience and discouraging disobedience, and to command them and enjoin prayers on them, and to utilize their times with things that will have pleasant consequences and to punish among them those who stray away and are disobedient and follow their lusts and desires - up to and including severing all relations with them if they continue in ways of misguidance.
The Prophet (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) said in the Hadith that is found in the Musnad of Al Imam Ahmad and Abu Dawood
(مروا أولادكم بالصلاة لسبع سنين، واضربوهم عليها لعشر، وفرقوا بينهم في المضاجع)
"Command your children to pray at age seven and at age ten punish them by hitting if they neglect it then separate between them in bed at the time of sleep".
That means of course that you must TEACH them the salat by that time or find someone who will teach them.
Servants of Allah, caring for children and adhering to the command and advise regarding them, starts with the man and woman before marriage asking their Lord to provide them with the righteous spouse, with good manners and sound faith. Looking for anything else in a spouse will bring about ruin, pain and destruction. It is unfortunate that so many Muslim youngsters today have as their first concern finding a spouse who doesn't have "too much" Islam.
Allah says while praising the servants of Allah as in
وَٱلَّذِينَ يَقُولُونَ رَبَّنَا هَبْ لَنَا مِنْ أَزْوٰجِنَا وَذُرّيَّـٰتِنَا قُرَّةَ أَعْيُنٍ وَٱجْعَلْنَا لِلْمُتَّقِينَ إِمَاماً [الفرقان:74]
"Those who say our Lord bestow on us from our wives and our offspring's the comfort of our eyes and make us leaders of the pious"(Al-Furqan: 74).
Allah informed us of the story of Musa when he saw the girls of the righteous man, who were properly mannered and chaste while he was without wife. He says:
رب إني لما أنزلت إلي من خير فقير [سورة القصص:24]
"My Lord, truly I am in need of whatever good that you bestowed on me"(Al- Qasas: 24).
This is how we must supplicate to Allah, asking him for a righteous wife that helps in being obedient.
In the book of Al Imam Bukhari and Muslim the Prophet (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) said as reported by Abu Hurairah Radhiyallahu Anhu: "Women are sought for four things her deen, her lineage, her beauty and her wealth..." Then he (sas) said:
(فاظفر بذات الدين تربت يداك)
"Win the religious wife, may your hand be dismayed with dust (if you turn away from this command)".
Issues of marriage should be concerned with deen first and foremost, above and beyond all other considerations (aside from, of course, the willingness of both parties). In the book of Al Imam Tirmidhi, he said in a Hadith addressing the guardians of women
(إذا جاءكم من ترضون دينه فزوجوه - ان لم تفعلوا تكون فتنة في الارض وفساد كبير) او كما قال صلى الله عليه وسلم
"If a man comes to you and you are satisfied with his manners and his religion, marry your daughter off to him".
Servants of Allah the second issue, which brings about joy and happiness, is that the husband and wife supplicate to Allah for righteous offspring.
As Allah informed us about Ibrahim, in Allah Subhanahu Wa Taala says:
رَبّ هَبْ لِى مِنَ ٱلصَّـٰلِحِينِ [الصافات:100]
رَبّ ٱجْعَلْنِى مُقِيمَ ٱلصَّلوٰةِ وَمِن ذُرّيَتِى [إبراهيم:40]
"O My Lord make me one who perform prayer and from my offspring's or Lord and accept my invocations"(Ibrahim: 40).
Ibrahim also said with Isma’il:
رَبَّنَا وَٱجْعَلْنَا مُسْلِمَيْنِ لَكَ وَمِن ذُرّيَّتِنَا أُمَّةً مُّسْلِمَةً لَّكَ [البقرة:128]
"Our Lord and make us submissive on to you and of our offspring's a nation submissive on to you"(Al-Baqarah: 128).
Don't we want our children down through the coming generations to be examples of Islam for the people of this land?
Allah says regarding Zakariyah:
رَبّ هَبْ لِى مِن لَّدُنْكَ ذُرّيَّةً طَيّبَةً إِنَّكَ سَمِيعُ ٱلدُّعَاء [آل عمران:38]
"O My Lord, grant me from you a good offspring's you are indeed the all hearer of invocations "(Aal-Imran: 38).
Allah says when mentioning invocations of parents:
لَئِنْ ءاتَيْتَنَا صَـٰلِحاً لَّنَكُونَنَّ مِنَ ٱلشَّـٰكِرِينَ [الأعراف:189]
"If you give us a righteous child we shall indeed be among the grateful"(Al-A'raf: 189).
This proves that a righteous child is one the greatest bounties and favors from Allah. Why would it not be when the Prophet (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) mentioned in the book of Al Imam Muslim
وابن آدم إذا مات: ((انقطع عمله إلا من ثلاث: صدقة جارية، أو علم ينتفع به، أو ولد صالح يدعو له))
"When the son of Adam dies, he loses benefit from his deeds except from three. A charity that is continuous in benefit, beneficial knowledge and a righteous son that supplicates for him".
Servants of Allah! Adhering to the command and advice of Allah concerning children and family, is to be sincere in supplicating for them to have all good. Not to curse them even at the time of anger, that is because the supplications for or against the child is accepted. Allah Subhanahu Wa Taala informed us about Ibrahim when he supplicated for his offspring when he said:
وَٱجْنُبْنِى وَبَنِىَّ أَن نَّعْبُدَ ٱلاْصْنَامَ [إبراهيم:35]
"Keep me and my sons away form worshiping idols"(Ibrahim: 35).
Therefore, Allah accepted his supplication and made his sons Prophets to guide humankind.
In the book of Imam Muslim reported by Jaabar, the messenger (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) said:
(لا تدعوا على أنفسكم، ولا تدعوا على أولادكم، ولا تدعوا على أموالكم، لا توافقوا من الله ساعة يسأل فيها عطاء فيستجيب لكم)
"Don't curse yourselves and don't curse your children and don't curse your wealth because you might coincide with an hour of acceptance with Allah, then he accepts the supplications and replies".
Fathers and mothers, take care of your children, raise them righteously to be grateful and they will be helpful and heavier on your scale on the Day of Judgment, even though they might be at a young age because teaching and raising properly from a young age is like someone engraving on rocks, it stays and its effect is lasting.
Amru Ibnu Salama Radhiyallahu Anhuma said:
كنت غلاما في حجر رسول الله ، وكانت يدي تطيش في الصحفة، فقال لي رسول الله : ((يا غلام، سمِّ الله ـ تعالى ـ، وكل بيمينك، وكل مما يليك))
"I was a young boy under the care of the messenger (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam)) and my hand use to go around the dish while eating. He said to me (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam)) "O Boy, say Bismillah, and eat with your right hand and eat of the dish what is near to you". Then Amru said "Since that I have applied those instruction while eating",
and he (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) also said:
(مروا أبناءكم بالصلاة لسبع سنين، واضربوهم عليها لعشر وفرقوا بينهم في المضاجع)
"Command your children to observe prayers at the age seven and at the age ten punish them by hitting if they neglect Salah and separate them at the time of sleep".
The command of the Prophet (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam)) to separate between children at the time of sleep comes as a deterrent to prevent corruption and to bring the attention of the Muslim Nation of their obligations to safe guard and preserve the religion.
O Muslims, it is the right of your children upon you for you to be just between them when giving gifts. The Prophet (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam)) said to one man
(إن لبنيك عليك من الحق أن تعدل بينهم)
"Your children have the right on you to be just between them".
The Salaf use to desire this justice even in the distribution of kisses. The reason for that is, one of the companions specified the child in giving a gift, and wanted the Prophet (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam)) to attend to that and testify to it. So the Prophet (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam)) said
أحد الصحابة خص أحد أولاده بصدقة وأراد أن يشهد النبي عليها فقال له النبي : ((أفعلت هذا بولدك كلهم؟)) قال: لا، قال: ((أفتحب أن يكونوا لك في البر سواء؟)) قال: نعم، قال: ((فاتقوا الله واعدلوا بين أولادكم)) [10]، وفي رواية قال : ((أشهد على هذا غيري فإني لا أشهد على جور)) [11]، وفي لفظ: ((إلاَّ على الحق)) [12]. فرجع ذلك الرجل في صدقته وعدل بين أولاده في عطيته
"Did you do that with the rest of your children”. He said: "No". The prophet said: "Wouldn't you like that they all have the same level of dutifulness towards you”. He said: "Yes ". The prophet said: " Then fear Allah, and be just between your children". In another narration, he said to him: "Get someone else to testify on this, I do not testify to oppression".
In another narration he said: "I only testify to that which is the truth", so that man companion when back, took that gift back and was just between his children.
So, fear Allah, O Servants of Allah, and adhere and preserve the command and advise of Allah to you concerning your children and remember your position in the day of resurrection. As Allah says that which translates as:
يَوْمَ لاَ يُغْنِى مَوْلًى عَن مَّوْلًى شَيْئاً وَلاَ هُمْ يُنصَرُونَ [الدخان:41]
"The day when a near relative can not avail another near relative in ought, and no help can they receive" (Ad-Dukhan: 41).
May Allah bless you and I with the guidance of the Qur’an.
Summary
1) Raising children is an obligation
2) Seeking a righteous wife and a righteous husband
3) Invocations by husband and wife and asking Allah to make their children righteous
4) The messenger (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) teaches Amru Ibnu Salama
5) Justice between children
FIRST KHUTBA
O People fear Allah in all your situations. For Allah's fearfulness and cautiousness is the best characteristic that you could have in your life and take provisions for the day of return and preserve the advice and orders from Allah to you regarding your children for they are the greatest trust. Your wives and your children are amana - trusts - from Allah and those who take good care of trusts are among the inheritors of Paradise.
Allah says:
وَٱلَّذِينَ هُمْ لاِمَـٰنَـٰتِهِمْ وَعَهْدِهِمْ رٰعُونَ وَٱلَّذِينَ هُمْ عَلَىٰ صَلَوٰتِهِمْ يُحَـٰفِظُونَ أُوْلَـئِكَ هُمُ ٱلْوٰرِثُونَ ٱلَّذِينَ يَرِثُونَ ٱلْفِرْدَوْسَ هُمْ فِيهَا خَـٰلِدُونَ [المؤمنون:8-11]
"Those who faithfully true to their trust and duties and to their covenants and those who strictly guard their prayers these are indeed are inheritors who shall inherit paradise they shall dwell therein forever"(Mu’minun: 8-11).
Servants of Allah, Allah says (about inheritance):
يُوصِيكُمُ ٱللَّهُ فِى أَوْلَـٰدِكُمْ [سورة النساء:11]
"Allah commands you as regards your children"(An-Nisa’: 11).
Do everything in your power to protect yourself and your dependents from the fire. He Subhanahu Wa Taala says:
يٰأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءامَنُواْ قُواْ أَنفُسَكُمْ وَأَهْلِيكُمْ نَاراً وَقُودُهَا ٱلنَّاسُ وَٱلْحِجَارَةُ عَلَيْهَا مَلَـئِكَةٌ غِلاَظٌ شِدَادٌ لاَّ يَعْصُونَ ٱللَّهَ مَا أَمَرَهُمْ وَيَفْعَلُونَ مَا يُؤْمَرُون [التحريم:6]
"O You who have believed word off yourselves and your families against a fire whose fuel is men and stones over which are angels stern and severe who disobey not from executing the commands they receive from Allah, but do that which they are commanded"(At-Tahreem: 6).
It is not enough to practice your deen yourself. Especially for the head of every household. Rather, Allah has ordered us to be persistent, patient and steadfast in commanding all those under our custody to fulfill their covenant to Allah completely. This is our FIRST concern, before even wondering where we will get sustenance to feed our dependents. Additionally Allah Subhanahu Wa Taala says:
وَأْمُرْ أَهْلَكَ بِٱلصَّلوٰةِ وَٱصْطَبِرْ عَلَيْهَا لاَ نَسْأَلُكَ رِزْقاً نَّحْنُ نَرْزُقُكَ وَٱلْعَـٰقِبَةُ لِلتَّقْوَىٰ [طه:132]
"Enjoin prayer on your family and be patient in offering them, we ask not of you a provision, we provide for you and the good end is for the pious"(Taha: 132).
Allah commanded you as regards to your children to properly raise them, encouraging obedience and discouraging disobedience, and to command them and enjoin prayers on them, and to utilize their times with things that will have pleasant consequences and to punish among them those who stray away and are disobedient and follow their lusts and desires - up to and including severing all relations with them if they continue in ways of misguidance.
The Prophet (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) said in the Hadith that is found in the Musnad of Al Imam Ahmad and Abu Dawood
(مروا أولادكم بالصلاة لسبع سنين، واضربوهم عليها لعشر، وفرقوا بينهم في المضاجع)
"Command your children to pray at age seven and at age ten punish them by hitting if they neglect it then separate between them in bed at the time of sleep".
That means of course that you must TEACH them the salat by that time or find someone who will teach them.
Servants of Allah, caring for children and adhering to the command and advise regarding them, starts with the man and woman before marriage asking their Lord to provide them with the righteous spouse, with good manners and sound faith. Looking for anything else in a spouse will bring about ruin, pain and destruction. It is unfortunate that so many Muslim youngsters today have as their first concern finding a spouse who doesn't have "too much" Islam.
Allah says while praising the servants of Allah as in
وَٱلَّذِينَ يَقُولُونَ رَبَّنَا هَبْ لَنَا مِنْ أَزْوٰجِنَا وَذُرّيَّـٰتِنَا قُرَّةَ أَعْيُنٍ وَٱجْعَلْنَا لِلْمُتَّقِينَ إِمَاماً [الفرقان:74]
"Those who say our Lord bestow on us from our wives and our offspring's the comfort of our eyes and make us leaders of the pious"(Al-Furqan: 74).
Allah informed us of the story of Musa when he saw the girls of the righteous man, who were properly mannered and chaste while he was without wife. He says:
رب إني لما أنزلت إلي من خير فقير [سورة القصص:24]
"My Lord, truly I am in need of whatever good that you bestowed on me"(Al- Qasas: 24).
This is how we must supplicate to Allah, asking him for a righteous wife that helps in being obedient.
In the book of Al Imam Bukhari and Muslim the Prophet (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) said as reported by Abu Hurairah Radhiyallahu Anhu: "Women are sought for four things her deen, her lineage, her beauty and her wealth..." Then he (sas) said:
(فاظفر بذات الدين تربت يداك)
"Win the religious wife, may your hand be dismayed with dust (if you turn away from this command)".
Issues of marriage should be concerned with deen first and foremost, above and beyond all other considerations (aside from, of course, the willingness of both parties). In the book of Al Imam Tirmidhi, he said in a Hadith addressing the guardians of women
(إذا جاءكم من ترضون دينه فزوجوه - ان لم تفعلوا تكون فتنة في الارض وفساد كبير) او كما قال صلى الله عليه وسلم
"If a man comes to you and you are satisfied with his manners and his religion, marry your daughter off to him".
Servants of Allah the second issue, which brings about joy and happiness, is that the husband and wife supplicate to Allah for righteous offspring.
As Allah informed us about Ibrahim, in Allah Subhanahu Wa Taala says:
رَبّ هَبْ لِى مِنَ ٱلصَّـٰلِحِينِ [الصافات:100]
رَبّ ٱجْعَلْنِى مُقِيمَ ٱلصَّلوٰةِ وَمِن ذُرّيَتِى [إبراهيم:40]
"O My Lord make me one who perform prayer and from my offspring's or Lord and accept my invocations"(Ibrahim: 40).
Ibrahim also said with Isma’il:
رَبَّنَا وَٱجْعَلْنَا مُسْلِمَيْنِ لَكَ وَمِن ذُرّيَّتِنَا أُمَّةً مُّسْلِمَةً لَّكَ [البقرة:128]
"Our Lord and make us submissive on to you and of our offspring's a nation submissive on to you"(Al-Baqarah: 128).
Don't we want our children down through the coming generations to be examples of Islam for the people of this land?
Allah says regarding Zakariyah:
رَبّ هَبْ لِى مِن لَّدُنْكَ ذُرّيَّةً طَيّبَةً إِنَّكَ سَمِيعُ ٱلدُّعَاء [آل عمران:38]
"O My Lord, grant me from you a good offspring's you are indeed the all hearer of invocations "(Aal-Imran: 38).
Allah says when mentioning invocations of parents:
لَئِنْ ءاتَيْتَنَا صَـٰلِحاً لَّنَكُونَنَّ مِنَ ٱلشَّـٰكِرِينَ [الأعراف:189]
"If you give us a righteous child we shall indeed be among the grateful"(Al-A'raf: 189).
This proves that a righteous child is one the greatest bounties and favors from Allah. Why would it not be when the Prophet (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) mentioned in the book of Al Imam Muslim
وابن آدم إذا مات: ((انقطع عمله إلا من ثلاث: صدقة جارية، أو علم ينتفع به، أو ولد صالح يدعو له))
"When the son of Adam dies, he loses benefit from his deeds except from three. A charity that is continuous in benefit, beneficial knowledge and a righteous son that supplicates for him".
Servants of Allah! Adhering to the command and advice of Allah concerning children and family, is to be sincere in supplicating for them to have all good. Not to curse them even at the time of anger, that is because the supplications for or against the child is accepted. Allah Subhanahu Wa Taala informed us about Ibrahim when he supplicated for his offspring when he said:
وَٱجْنُبْنِى وَبَنِىَّ أَن نَّعْبُدَ ٱلاْصْنَامَ [إبراهيم:35]
"Keep me and my sons away form worshiping idols"(Ibrahim: 35).
Therefore, Allah accepted his supplication and made his sons Prophets to guide humankind.
In the book of Imam Muslim reported by Jaabar, the messenger (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) said:
(لا تدعوا على أنفسكم، ولا تدعوا على أولادكم، ولا تدعوا على أموالكم، لا توافقوا من الله ساعة يسأل فيها عطاء فيستجيب لكم)
"Don't curse yourselves and don't curse your children and don't curse your wealth because you might coincide with an hour of acceptance with Allah, then he accepts the supplications and replies".
Fathers and mothers, take care of your children, raise them righteously to be grateful and they will be helpful and heavier on your scale on the Day of Judgment, even though they might be at a young age because teaching and raising properly from a young age is like someone engraving on rocks, it stays and its effect is lasting.
Amru Ibnu Salama Radhiyallahu Anhuma said:
كنت غلاما في حجر رسول الله ، وكانت يدي تطيش في الصحفة، فقال لي رسول الله : ((يا غلام، سمِّ الله ـ تعالى ـ، وكل بيمينك، وكل مما يليك))
"I was a young boy under the care of the messenger (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam)) and my hand use to go around the dish while eating. He said to me (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam)) "O Boy, say Bismillah, and eat with your right hand and eat of the dish what is near to you". Then Amru said "Since that I have applied those instruction while eating",
and he (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam) also said:
(مروا أبناءكم بالصلاة لسبع سنين، واضربوهم عليها لعشر وفرقوا بينهم في المضاجع)
"Command your children to observe prayers at the age seven and at the age ten punish them by hitting if they neglect Salah and separate them at the time of sleep".
The command of the Prophet (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam)) to separate between children at the time of sleep comes as a deterrent to prevent corruption and to bring the attention of the Muslim Nation of their obligations to safe guard and preserve the religion.
O Muslims, it is the right of your children upon you for you to be just between them when giving gifts. The Prophet (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam)) said to one man
(إن لبنيك عليك من الحق أن تعدل بينهم)
"Your children have the right on you to be just between them".
The Salaf use to desire this justice even in the distribution of kisses. The reason for that is, one of the companions specified the child in giving a gift, and wanted the Prophet (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam)) to attend to that and testify to it. So the Prophet (Salla Allahu Alaihi Wa Sallam)) said
أحد الصحابة خص أحد أولاده بصدقة وأراد أن يشهد النبي عليها فقال له النبي : ((أفعلت هذا بولدك كلهم؟)) قال: لا، قال: ((أفتحب أن يكونوا لك في البر سواء؟)) قال: نعم، قال: ((فاتقوا الله واعدلوا بين أولادكم)) [10]، وفي رواية قال : ((أشهد على هذا غيري فإني لا أشهد على جور)) [11]، وفي لفظ: ((إلاَّ على الحق)) [12]. فرجع ذلك الرجل في صدقته وعدل بين أولاده في عطيته
"Did you do that with the rest of your children”. He said: "No". The prophet said: "Wouldn't you like that they all have the same level of dutifulness towards you”. He said: "Yes ". The prophet said: " Then fear Allah, and be just between your children". In another narration, he said to him: "Get someone else to testify on this, I do not testify to oppression".
In another narration he said: "I only testify to that which is the truth", so that man companion when back, took that gift back and was just between his children.
So, fear Allah, O Servants of Allah, and adhere and preserve the command and advise of Allah to you concerning your children and remember your position in the day of resurrection. As Allah says that which translates as:
يَوْمَ لاَ يُغْنِى مَوْلًى عَن مَّوْلًى شَيْئاً وَلاَ هُمْ يُنصَرُونَ [الدخان:41]
"The day when a near relative can not avail another near relative in ought, and no help can they receive" (Ad-Dukhan: 41).
May Allah bless you and I with the guidance of the Qur’an.
Thursday, January 24, 2008
A beautiful hadith
Assalamualikum. Beautiful Hadith for all.
Rasulullah (Sallallahu alaihe wasallam) said: 'When a man dies and his relatives are busy in funeral, there stands an extremely handsome man by his head. When the dead body is shrouded, that man gets in between the shroud and the chest of the deceased.
When after the burial, the people return home, 2 angels, Munkar and Nakeer(names of two special Angels), come in the grave and try to separate this handsome man so that they may be able to interrogate the dead man in privacy about his faith. But the handsome man says, 'He is my companion, he is my friend. I will not leave him alone in any case. If you are appointed for interrogation, do your job. I cannot leave him until I get him admitted into Paradise '.
Thereafter he turns to his dead companion and says, 'I am the Qur'an, which you used to read, sometimes in a loud voice and sometimes in a low voice. Do not worry. After the interrogation of Munkar and Naker, you will have no grief.'
When the interrogation is over, the handsome man arranges for him from Al-Mala'ul A'laa (the angels in Heaven) silk bedding filled with musk.
Rasulullah (Sallallahu alaihe wasallam) said: 'On the Day of Judgement, before Allah, no other Intercessor will have a greater status than the Qur'an, neither a Prophet nor an angel.'
Please keep forwarding this 'Hadith' to all ....because
Rasulullah (Sallallahu alaihe wasallam) said:
'Pass on knowledge from me even if it is only one verse'.
May Allah bestow this favour on all of us.
AMEEN
Assalamu Alaikum
We are praying that the following message in the next seven days would reach at least FIVE MILLION Muslims all over the world, Insha-Allah. Please forward this message TODAY to your friends and relatives and earn abundant Rewards from Allah Subhanahu watala.
SAYINGS (HADITH) OF PROPHET MUHAMMAD (Sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam)
The one who disdains prayers (Salat) will receive Fifteen punishments from
Allah..
Six punishments in this lifetime
Three while dying
Three in the grave &
Three on the Day of Judgment.
THE SIX PUNISHMENTS OF LIFE :
1. Allah takes away blessings from his age (makes his life misfortunate)
2. Allah does not accept his plea (Dua's)
3. Allah erases the features of good people from his face.
4. He will be detested by all creatures on earth.
5. Allah does not reward him for his good deeds. (No thawab)
6. He will not be included in the Dua's of good people.
THE THREE PUNISHMENTS WHILE DYING :
1. He dies humiliated.
2. He dies hungry.
3. He dies thirsty. Even if he drinks the water of all seas he will still be thirsty.
THE THREE PUNISHMENTS IN THE GRAVE :
1. Allah tightens his grave until his chest ribs come over each other.
2. Allah pours on him fire with embers.
3. Allah sets on him a snake called 'the brave', 'the bold' which hits him from morning until afternoon for leaving Fajr prayer, from the afternoon until Asr for leaving Dhuhr prayer and so on. With each strike he sinks 70 yards under the ground.
THE THREE PUNISHMENTS ON THE DAY OF JUDGMENT :
1. Allah sends who would accompany him to hell pulling him on the face.
2. Allah gives him an angry look that makes the flesh of his face fall down.
3. Allah judges him strictly and orders him to be thrown in hell.
Note: If you get this copy, please make copies of it and distribute them among all Muslims. You will be earning a Reward as well as helping to show your brother the Right Path. May Allah give guidance to all of us.
AAMEEN!!!!!! !
------------ --------- --------- --------- -------
THOSE WHO DO NOT SAY THEIR PRAYERS OF:
FAJR : the glow of their face is taken away.
ZUHR : the blessing of their income is taken away.
ASR : the strength of their body is taken away.
MAGHRIB : they are not benefited by their children.
'ISHA : the peace of their sleep is taken away.
------------ --------- --------- --------- --------- -
THE HOLY QUR'AN:
'Say Your Prayers Before Prayers For You Are Said'.
Rasulullah (Sallallahu alaihe wasallam) said: 'When a man dies and his relatives are busy in funeral, there stands an extremely handsome man by his head. When the dead body is shrouded, that man gets in between the shroud and the chest of the deceased.
When after the burial, the people return home, 2 angels, Munkar and Nakeer(names of two special Angels), come in the grave and try to separate this handsome man so that they may be able to interrogate the dead man in privacy about his faith. But the handsome man says, 'He is my companion, he is my friend. I will not leave him alone in any case. If you are appointed for interrogation, do your job. I cannot leave him until I get him admitted into Paradise '.
Thereafter he turns to his dead companion and says, 'I am the Qur'an, which you used to read, sometimes in a loud voice and sometimes in a low voice. Do not worry. After the interrogation of Munkar and Naker, you will have no grief.'
When the interrogation is over, the handsome man arranges for him from Al-Mala'ul A'laa (the angels in Heaven) silk bedding filled with musk.
Rasulullah (Sallallahu alaihe wasallam) said: 'On the Day of Judgement, before Allah, no other Intercessor will have a greater status than the Qur'an, neither a Prophet nor an angel.'
Please keep forwarding this 'Hadith' to all ....because
Rasulullah (Sallallahu alaihe wasallam) said:
'Pass on knowledge from me even if it is only one verse'.
May Allah bestow this favour on all of us.
AMEEN
Assalamu Alaikum
We are praying that the following message in the next seven days would reach at least FIVE MILLION Muslims all over the world, Insha-Allah. Please forward this message TODAY to your friends and relatives and earn abundant Rewards from Allah Subhanahu watala.
SAYINGS (HADITH) OF PROPHET MUHAMMAD (Sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam)
The one who disdains prayers (Salat) will receive Fifteen punishments from
Allah..
Six punishments in this lifetime
Three while dying
Three in the grave &
Three on the Day of Judgment.
THE SIX PUNISHMENTS OF LIFE :
1. Allah takes away blessings from his age (makes his life misfortunate)
2. Allah does not accept his plea (Dua's)
3. Allah erases the features of good people from his face.
4. He will be detested by all creatures on earth.
5. Allah does not reward him for his good deeds. (No thawab)
6. He will not be included in the Dua's of good people.
THE THREE PUNISHMENTS WHILE DYING :
1. He dies humiliated.
2. He dies hungry.
3. He dies thirsty. Even if he drinks the water of all seas he will still be thirsty.
THE THREE PUNISHMENTS IN THE GRAVE :
1. Allah tightens his grave until his chest ribs come over each other.
2. Allah pours on him fire with embers.
3. Allah sets on him a snake called 'the brave', 'the bold' which hits him from morning until afternoon for leaving Fajr prayer, from the afternoon until Asr for leaving Dhuhr prayer and so on. With each strike he sinks 70 yards under the ground.
THE THREE PUNISHMENTS ON THE DAY OF JUDGMENT :
1. Allah sends who would accompany him to hell pulling him on the face.
2. Allah gives him an angry look that makes the flesh of his face fall down.
3. Allah judges him strictly and orders him to be thrown in hell.
Note: If you get this copy, please make copies of it and distribute them among all Muslims. You will be earning a Reward as well as helping to show your brother the Right Path. May Allah give guidance to all of us.
AAMEEN!!!!!! !
------------ --------- --------- --------- -------
THOSE WHO DO NOT SAY THEIR PRAYERS OF:
FAJR : the glow of their face is taken away.
ZUHR : the blessing of their income is taken away.
ASR : the strength of their body is taken away.
MAGHRIB : they are not benefited by their children.
'ISHA : the peace of their sleep is taken away.
------------ --------- --------- --------- --------- -
THE HOLY QUR'AN:
'Say Your Prayers Before Prayers For You Are Said'.
Tuesday, February 20, 2007
Teachings of Islam
Islam is a religion without any mythology. Its teachings are simple and intelligible. It is free from superstitions and irrational beliefs. The oneness of Allah, the prophet hood of Muhammad, and the concept of life after death are the basic articles of its faith. They are based on reason and sound logic.
All of the teachings of Islam flow from those basic beliefs and are simple and straightforward. There is no hierarchy of priests, no farfetched abstractions, no complicated rites or rituals.
Everybody may approach the Qur'an directly and translate its dictates into practice. Islam awakens in man the faculty of reason and exhorts him to use his intellect. It enjoins him to see things in the light of reality. The Qur'an advises him to seek knowledge and invoke Allah to expand his awareness : "... My Lord! Increase me in knowledge." (20: 114) Allah also says: " ... Are those who know equal to those who know not? It's only men of understanding who will remember." (39: 9)
It is reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said that: "He who leaves his home in search of knowledge (walks) in the path of Allah." (Reported by At-Tirmidhi) and that "Seeking knowledge is obligatory upon every Muslim." (Reported by Ibn Majah and al-Bayhaqi) This is how Islam brings man out of the world of superstition and darkness and initiates him into the world of knowledge and light.
Again, Islam is a practical religion and does not allow indulgence in empty and futile theorizing. It says that faith is not a mere profession of beliefs, but rather that it is the very mainspring of life. Righteous conduct must follow belief in Allah. Religion is something to be practiced and not an object of mere lip service. The Qur'an says: " ... Those who believed (in the Oneness of Allah) and work righteousness, Tuba (all kinds of happoiness or name of a tree in Paradise) is for them, and a beautiful place of (final) return." (13: 29)
The Prophet (peace be upon him) is also reported to have said: "Allah does not accept belief if it is not expressed in deeds, and does not accept deeds if they do not conform to belief." (Reported by At-Tabarani)
Thus Islam's simplicity, rationality and practicality are what characterize Islam as a unique and true religion.
Unity of Matter and Spirit
A feature of Islam is that it does not divide life into watertight compartments of matter and spirit. It stands not for denial of life but for the fulfillment of life. Islam does not believe in asceticism. It does not ask man to avoid material things. It holds that spiritual elevation is to be achieved by living piously in the rough and tumble of life, not by renouncing the world. The Qur'an advises us to pray as follows: " ... Our Lord! Give us in this world that which is good and in the Hereafter that which is good ..." (2: 201)
But in making use of life's luxuries, Islam advises man to be moderate and keep away from extravagance, Allah says: "… and eat and drink but waste not by extravagance, certainly He (Allah) likes not Al-Musrifun (those who waste by extravagance) ." (7: 31)
On this aspect of moderation, the Prophet (peace be upon him) said : "Observe fasting and break it (at the proper time) and stand in prayer and devotion (in the night) and have sleep, for your body has its right over you, and your eyes have rights over you, and your wife has a claim upon you, and the person who pays a visit to you has a claim upon you."
Thus, Islam does not admit any separation between "material" and "moral," "mundane" and "spiritual" life, and enjoins man to devote all of his energies to the reconstruction of life on healthy moral foundations. It teaches him that moral and material powers must be welded together and that spiritual salvation can be achieved by using material resources for the good of man in the service of just ends and not by living a life of asceticism or by running away from the challenges of life.
Islam seeks to establish equilibrium between the two aspects of life - the material and the spiritual. It says that everything in the world is for man, but man was created to serve a higher purpose: the establishment of a moral and just order that will fulfil the will of Allah. Its teachings cater for the spiritual as well as the temporal needs of man. Islam enjoins man to purify his soul and to reform his daily life - both individual and collective - and to establish the supremacy of right over might and of virtue over vice. Thus Islam stands for the middle path and the goal of producing a moral man in the service of a just society.
Islam, a Complete Way of Life
Islam is not a religion in the common and distorted sense, for it does not confine its scope to one's private life. It is a complete way of life and is inclusive of every field of human existence. Islam provides guidance for all aspects of life - individual and social, material and moral, economic and political, legal and cultural, and national and international. The Qur'an enjoins man to embrace Islam without any reservation and to follow Allah's guidance in all areas of life.
In fact, it was an unfortunate day when the scope of religion was confined to the private life of man and its social and cultural role was reduced to naught, as has happened in this century. No other factor, perhaps, has been more important in causing the decline of religion in the modern age than its retreat into the realm of private life. In the words of a modern philosopher: "Religion asks us to separate things of God from those of Caesar. Such a judicial separation between the two means the degrading of both the secular and the sacred ... That religion is worth little if the conscience of its followers is not disturbed when war clouds are hanging over us all and industrial conflicts are threatening social peace. Religion has weakened man's social conscience and moral sensitivity by separating the things of God from those of Caesar."
Islam totally denounces this concept of religion and clearly states that its objectives are the purification of the soul and the reform and reconstruction of society.
Thus even a cursory study of the teachings of Islam shows that it is an all-embracing way of life and does not leave out any field of human existence to become a playground for the forces of evil.
Another unique feature of Islam is that it establishes a balance between individualism and collectivism. It believes in the individual personality of man and holds everyone personally accountable to Allah. The Prophet (peace be upon him) says: "Everyone of you is a guardian, and responsible for what is in his custody. The ruler is a guardian of his subjects and responsible for them; a husband is a guardian of his family and is responsible for it; a lady is a guardian of her husband's house and is responsible for it, and a servant is a guardian of his master's property and is responsible for it." The Prophet also said, "A man is a guardian of his father's property and is responsible for it, so all of you are guardians and responsible for your wards and things under your care ."(Reported by al-Bukhari and Muslim)
Islam also guarantees the fundamental rights of the individual and does not permit anyone to tamper with them. It makes the proper development of the personality of man one of the prime objectives of its educational policy. It does not subscribe to the view that man must lose his individuality in society or in the state.
In Islam, all men are equal, regardless of colour, language, race, or nationality. It addresses itself to the conscience of humanity and banishes all false barriers of race, status, and wealth. There can be no denying the fact that such barriers have always existed and continue to exist today in the so-called enlightened age. Islam removes all of these impediments and proclaims the ideal of the whole of humanity being one universal family.
Islam is international in its outlook and approach and does not admit barriers and distinctions based on color, clan, blood, or territory, as was the case before the advent of Muhammad (peace be upon him). Unfortunately, these prejudices remain rampant in different forms even in this modern age. Islam wants to unite the entire human race under one banner. To a world torn by national rivalries and feuds, it presents a message of life and hope and of a glorious future.
Complete Record of Teachings Preserved
Last, but not least, is the fact that the teachings of Islam have been preserved in their original form. As a result, Allah's guidance is available without adulteration of any kind. The Qur'an is the revealed book and word of Allah, which has existed for the last fourteen hundred years. It is still available in its original form. Detailed accounts of the life of the Prophet and of his teachings are available in their pristine purity.
There has not been even one change made in this unique historical record. The sayings and the entire record of the life of the Prophet have been handed down to us with unprecedented precision and authenticity in works of the Hadith and the Sirah (the Prophet's Biography). Even a number of non-Muslim critics admit this eloquent fact.
These are some of the unique features of Islam that establish its credentials as the religion of man, the religion of today, and the religion of tomorrow. These aspects have appealed to millions of people in the past and the present and have made them affirm that Islam is the religion of truth and the right path for mankind.
