Sisterhood and Hijab!
"Help one another in al-Birr and at-Taqwaa (virtue, righteousness) but do not help one another in sin and transgression." [Soorah al-Maaidah (5): 2]
A good sister is more than a good friend. She is a companion in this dunya, in this world. She gives naseehah (advice), shares her knowledge, keeps contact with her sisters in Islaam, does ibaadah (worship of Allaah) together with her sisters in Islaam.. she protects the honour of her sisters in faith, she controls her tongue and does not spread rumours nor talks behind the back of her sisters. She is a trustworthy friend, a beloved sister.
Sisterhood is a beautiful bond between muslimaat. Simplest way to spread love between us is to spread salaam as Prophet Muhammad, sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam, has said,
"By the One in Whose hand in my soul, you will not enter Paradise until you believe, and you will not believe until you love one another. Shall I not tell you of something that if you do it, you will love one another? Spread salam amongst yourselves." [Muslim]
He, sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam, has also said: "Do not think little of any good deed, even if it is just greeting your brother with a cheerful countenance." [Sahih Muslim]
Oh Muslimaat, be sisters.. uphold the ties of sisterhood
Hijaab is...
an Act of Obedience
Modesty
Purity
a Shield
Righteousness
Eemaan (faith, belief)
Bashfulness
A good sister is more than a good friend. She is a companion in this dunya, in this world. She gives naseehah (advice), shares her knowledge, keeps contact with her sisters in Islaam, does ibaadah (worship of Allaah) together with her sisters in Islaam.. she protects the honour of her sisters in faith, she controls her tongue and does not spread rumours nor talks behind the back of her sisters. She is a trustworthy friend, a beloved sister.
Sisterhood is a beautiful bond between muslimaat. Simplest way to spread love between us is to spread salaam as Prophet Muhammad, sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam, has said,
"By the One in Whose hand in my soul, you will not enter Paradise until you believe, and you will not believe until you love one another. Shall I not tell you of something that if you do it, you will love one another? Spread salam amongst yourselves." [Muslim]
He, sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam, has also said: "Do not think little of any good deed, even if it is just greeting your brother with a cheerful countenance." [Sahih Muslim]
Oh Muslimaat, be sisters.. uphold the ties of sisterhood
Hijaab is...
an Act of Obedience
Modesty
Purity
a Shield
Righteousness
Eemaan (faith, belief)
Bashfulness
The Voting for Sharia in Somalia
The Somali parliament has voted unanimously for the implementation of Sharia which is seen as good news by many in the Muslim world - and it is - as it reflects the desire of the Somali people to live by the laws of Allah.
However there are some issues that need to be highlighted. First, there is a fundamental problem with the procedure in which the decision was made. The law of Allah should not be voted over. To give the people the choice whether to apply Sharia or not reflects a fundamental problem in the understanding of Tawhid.
Allah says: But no, by your Lord, they will not believe until they make you, [O Muhammad] judge concerning that over which they dispute among themselves and then find within themselves no discomfort from what you have judged and submit in [full] submission. [al Nisa 65]
So people cannot be believers until they submit to the law of Allah and accept it without any reservations. The Islamic government exists to impose Sharia rather than submit it to a vote. Therefore a government that declares that it will accept the results of a vote for Sharia, even if the results are not to implement it, is by necessity a non-Islamic government.
Second, the Sharif government is using its application of Sharia to convince the other resistance groups to lay down their arms and join the government. But from a Sharia point of view the objectives of the Jihad in Somalia have not been achieved yet and therefore the Jihad of these groups needs to carry on. Yes, the implementation of Sharia is the most important of these objectives, however, the Sharif government cannot be seen as a valid government for three main reasons. The first: Just as it applied Sharia by a vote it could dismantle Sharia by a vote. They have not implemented Sharia as a matter of principle but because it is the will of the people and therefore the Sharif government is closer to being a democratic government than it being an Islamic one. Second: The Sharif government is still allowing the existence of a foreign invading force represented in the forces of the African Union. The Jihad in Somalia should carry on until the last AU soldier leaves the country and any forces that side with the AU -including the Sharif government- become legitimate targets. And third: The Sharif government is basing its foreign relations with the outside world on a nationalistic basis rather that an Islamic one. The support it receives from the US, the EU and the UN is a reflection of it being a tool to advance the imperialistic interests of the West and to eradicate the strong Jihad movement in the country.
Therefore, even though it is good news for the ummah that Sharia will be implemented again in Somalia but we should not see this as an end to the struggle to establish an Islamic state and community and to free the country from foreign intervention and corruption.
Posted ( by Anwar alAwlaki) in Imam Anwar's Blog on April-20-2009
However there are some issues that need to be highlighted. First, there is a fundamental problem with the procedure in which the decision was made. The law of Allah should not be voted over. To give the people the choice whether to apply Sharia or not reflects a fundamental problem in the understanding of Tawhid.
Allah says: But no, by your Lord, they will not believe until they make you, [O Muhammad] judge concerning that over which they dispute among themselves and then find within themselves no discomfort from what you have judged and submit in [full] submission. [al Nisa 65]
So people cannot be believers until they submit to the law of Allah and accept it without any reservations. The Islamic government exists to impose Sharia rather than submit it to a vote. Therefore a government that declares that it will accept the results of a vote for Sharia, even if the results are not to implement it, is by necessity a non-Islamic government.
Second, the Sharif government is using its application of Sharia to convince the other resistance groups to lay down their arms and join the government. But from a Sharia point of view the objectives of the Jihad in Somalia have not been achieved yet and therefore the Jihad of these groups needs to carry on. Yes, the implementation of Sharia is the most important of these objectives, however, the Sharif government cannot be seen as a valid government for three main reasons. The first: Just as it applied Sharia by a vote it could dismantle Sharia by a vote. They have not implemented Sharia as a matter of principle but because it is the will of the people and therefore the Sharif government is closer to being a democratic government than it being an Islamic one. Second: The Sharif government is still allowing the existence of a foreign invading force represented in the forces of the African Union. The Jihad in Somalia should carry on until the last AU soldier leaves the country and any forces that side with the AU -including the Sharif government- become legitimate targets. And third: The Sharif government is basing its foreign relations with the outside world on a nationalistic basis rather that an Islamic one. The support it receives from the US, the EU and the UN is a reflection of it being a tool to advance the imperialistic interests of the West and to eradicate the strong Jihad movement in the country.
Therefore, even though it is good news for the ummah that Sharia will be implemented again in Somalia but we should not see this as an end to the struggle to establish an Islamic state and community and to free the country from foreign intervention and corruption.
Posted ( by Anwar alAwlaki) in Imam Anwar's Blog on April-20-2009
Words to My Muslim Sister
My Dear Sister,
Know that you are man's sister and half of humanity. You are a mother, wife, daughter, sister, aunt, grand daughter or grand mother. The Prophet sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam said, what translated means, "Women are, indeed, men's partners." [Abu Dawood]. You are a member of the great nation of Islam, the best nation ever produced for mankind. No other nation on earth has more great men, leaders and conquerors than this nation. It is the nation of guidance and the straight religion, and it leads humanity to righteousness and truth. It transforms people from worshippers of slaves to worshippers of the Lord of slaves, from life's pressures to the pleasures of the Life after, and from the injustice of other religions to the justice of Islam.
Your ancestors, great women of Islam, were one of the main reasons for this great nation to take this great place among all nations. Allah, Who granted Islam to this nation, made a high place for Muslim women, and decreed that they share in the responsibilities of enjoining truth, forbidding evil and raising the flag of Islam. He said, what translated means, "The believers, men and women, are loyalists of one another, they enjoin righteousness and forbid evil, they offer their prayers perfectly and give the Zakat, and obey Allah and His Messenger. Allah will leave His Mercy on them. Surely Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise. [9:71]
Allah has given Muslim women what they can bear of orders and duties. He is the God Who knows His creation, "Should He not know what He created? And He is the Most Kind, All-Aware (of everything). [67:14].
My dear sister, you are called upon today to truly become an active member of the Muslim nation, strive to establish victory for Allah's Word, implement the Quran and help build the generation of Iman.
What Do Your Enemies Want From You?
There are those who want to distract you from doing your duty. They want to distract you from meeting your noble obligation, that is, to defend the religion of Allah and raise His Word high. Those enemies use many methods:
First: They distract you from what Allah created you to perform of worship, belief and Da'wah (propagating Islam). They use this worldly life as their bait: Jewellery stores, fashions that originate in non-Muslim countries, new models all the time, desires raised, hunger that can never be satisfied, pleasures and competition for them and endless ways for joy. Allah did not create us for this. Indulging in these matters is usually accompanied by wasting time and money and igniting enmity and competition between the rich and the poor.
Second: They ignite enmity between you and man. To those sinners, you are a daughter that is put down, a humiliated mother, an abused wife and an oppressed sister! Men are always unjust, hypocrites, dictators, freedom- preventers and suppressers, according to them. There is a fabricated war that those evil ones are starting for no reason other than to direct you to rebel against your father, be arrogant with your brother and disobedient to your husband. They do not call for justice, mercy and unity. They call for hatred, arrogance and destruction.
Third: They do not stop at their call for rebellion against parents, brothers and husbands, rather, they plot against Islam. They call upon you to rebel against the obligations of Islam and the decrees of the All-Knowing King. Islam, to them, is unjust and Islamic laws are imperfect and restrictive. They call upon you, day and night, to rebel and insist on the disobedience of this religion. They try to rid you of your religion. They try to rid you of comfort and safety under generous parenthood, happy marriage and good brotherly relations.
Those devils portray piety and honor as chains on freedom. To them, Hijab does not cover the head, but also covers the mind; prayer, fasting and Zakat are a waste of time and effort; and obedience to husbands is slavery and a retum to the stone age. They distorted all facts and changed all truths, all to serve their evil goals.
Dear Sister,
The goals that your enemies and the enemies of your religion are seeking to achieve are well known. They want you to be available for them to fulfill their evil desires whenever they wish. They want you to be a mistress that has no honor. They want you to be found everywhere, on roads and in places of sin, without honor, religion or manners. They seek for you only what they want you to do. The Western world has gone through this all. Women of the West are the part of society that is facing injustice and dishonor. They strive to please men who keep changing partners and seek pleasures but with no responsibility and no consideration of the evil consequences of their sinful actions.
O Muslim sister, read and know about those women who discarded shyness and honor and followed their desires, what was the result of their deeds? Was their end honorable and desirable, or was it a shameful and hated end?
Advice For My Sister In Islam
Be proud of your religion and the religion of your ancestors. Be a good example for your sons and daughters and sincere in your belonging to this mighty nation. Know that honor is an honor to all wise people, and that adultery is dishonorable to all nations, even if some called it freedom. Know that adultery is also done with the eyes by seeing, with the ears by listening, and with the mouth by kissing, as was mentioned in a Hadith related by Imam Muslim. Your happiness is in being an obedient and believing daughter, a loyal and generous wife and a pious and merciful mother. Know that prayer is the cornerstone of Islam. Fasting one day, for the sake of Allah, takes your face seventy years away from Hellfire, as the Hadith, related by Al-Bukhari and Muslim, states. Charity is a major cause for gaining forgiveness and for repentance to be accepted. Those women who are showing parts of their bodies to men, will not enter Paradise or smell its fragrance and are cursed, as in the Hadith related by Imam Muslim. Hijab is an honor and protection for you. Hijab must be modest in color and not exotic, wide and thick and not revealing, different from the dress of non-Muslim women and men.
My Dear Sister,
These are words from the heart. These are words of good and sincere advice. Beware of the loyalists of Satan who want to lead you astray. Be a slave of Allah, righteous and decendent of righteous women and know your role in building this great nation. Perform your duty and do not be a cause for destruction. Be a maker of righteous generation that will lead mankind, again, to what is right and proper, to the great religion of Islam.
Courtesy of Kalamullah
Know that you are man's sister and half of humanity. You are a mother, wife, daughter, sister, aunt, grand daughter or grand mother. The Prophet sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam said, what translated means, "Women are, indeed, men's partners." [Abu Dawood]. You are a member of the great nation of Islam, the best nation ever produced for mankind. No other nation on earth has more great men, leaders and conquerors than this nation. It is the nation of guidance and the straight religion, and it leads humanity to righteousness and truth. It transforms people from worshippers of slaves to worshippers of the Lord of slaves, from life's pressures to the pleasures of the Life after, and from the injustice of other religions to the justice of Islam.
Your ancestors, great women of Islam, were one of the main reasons for this great nation to take this great place among all nations. Allah, Who granted Islam to this nation, made a high place for Muslim women, and decreed that they share in the responsibilities of enjoining truth, forbidding evil and raising the flag of Islam. He said, what translated means, "The believers, men and women, are loyalists of one another, they enjoin righteousness and forbid evil, they offer their prayers perfectly and give the Zakat, and obey Allah and His Messenger. Allah will leave His Mercy on them. Surely Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise. [9:71]
Allah has given Muslim women what they can bear of orders and duties. He is the God Who knows His creation, "Should He not know what He created? And He is the Most Kind, All-Aware (of everything). [67:14].
My dear sister, you are called upon today to truly become an active member of the Muslim nation, strive to establish victory for Allah's Word, implement the Quran and help build the generation of Iman.
What Do Your Enemies Want From You?
There are those who want to distract you from doing your duty. They want to distract you from meeting your noble obligation, that is, to defend the religion of Allah and raise His Word high. Those enemies use many methods:
First: They distract you from what Allah created you to perform of worship, belief and Da'wah (propagating Islam). They use this worldly life as their bait: Jewellery stores, fashions that originate in non-Muslim countries, new models all the time, desires raised, hunger that can never be satisfied, pleasures and competition for them and endless ways for joy. Allah did not create us for this. Indulging in these matters is usually accompanied by wasting time and money and igniting enmity and competition between the rich and the poor.
Second: They ignite enmity between you and man. To those sinners, you are a daughter that is put down, a humiliated mother, an abused wife and an oppressed sister! Men are always unjust, hypocrites, dictators, freedom- preventers and suppressers, according to them. There is a fabricated war that those evil ones are starting for no reason other than to direct you to rebel against your father, be arrogant with your brother and disobedient to your husband. They do not call for justice, mercy and unity. They call for hatred, arrogance and destruction.
Third: They do not stop at their call for rebellion against parents, brothers and husbands, rather, they plot against Islam. They call upon you to rebel against the obligations of Islam and the decrees of the All-Knowing King. Islam, to them, is unjust and Islamic laws are imperfect and restrictive. They call upon you, day and night, to rebel and insist on the disobedience of this religion. They try to rid you of your religion. They try to rid you of comfort and safety under generous parenthood, happy marriage and good brotherly relations.
Those devils portray piety and honor as chains on freedom. To them, Hijab does not cover the head, but also covers the mind; prayer, fasting and Zakat are a waste of time and effort; and obedience to husbands is slavery and a retum to the stone age. They distorted all facts and changed all truths, all to serve their evil goals.
Dear Sister,
The goals that your enemies and the enemies of your religion are seeking to achieve are well known. They want you to be available for them to fulfill their evil desires whenever they wish. They want you to be a mistress that has no honor. They want you to be found everywhere, on roads and in places of sin, without honor, religion or manners. They seek for you only what they want you to do. The Western world has gone through this all. Women of the West are the part of society that is facing injustice and dishonor. They strive to please men who keep changing partners and seek pleasures but with no responsibility and no consideration of the evil consequences of their sinful actions.
O Muslim sister, read and know about those women who discarded shyness and honor and followed their desires, what was the result of their deeds? Was their end honorable and desirable, or was it a shameful and hated end?
Advice For My Sister In Islam
Be proud of your religion and the religion of your ancestors. Be a good example for your sons and daughters and sincere in your belonging to this mighty nation. Know that honor is an honor to all wise people, and that adultery is dishonorable to all nations, even if some called it freedom. Know that adultery is also done with the eyes by seeing, with the ears by listening, and with the mouth by kissing, as was mentioned in a Hadith related by Imam Muslim. Your happiness is in being an obedient and believing daughter, a loyal and generous wife and a pious and merciful mother. Know that prayer is the cornerstone of Islam. Fasting one day, for the sake of Allah, takes your face seventy years away from Hellfire, as the Hadith, related by Al-Bukhari and Muslim, states. Charity is a major cause for gaining forgiveness and for repentance to be accepted. Those women who are showing parts of their bodies to men, will not enter Paradise or smell its fragrance and are cursed, as in the Hadith related by Imam Muslim. Hijab is an honor and protection for you. Hijab must be modest in color and not exotic, wide and thick and not revealing, different from the dress of non-Muslim women and men.
My Dear Sister,
These are words from the heart. These are words of good and sincere advice. Beware of the loyalists of Satan who want to lead you astray. Be a slave of Allah, righteous and decendent of righteous women and know your role in building this great nation. Perform your duty and do not be a cause for destruction. Be a maker of righteous generation that will lead mankind, again, to what is right and proper, to the great religion of Islam.
Courtesy of Kalamullah
When the sky is split asunder?
When the sky is split asunder, obeying its Sustainer, as in truth it must, and when the earth is leveled and casts forth whatever is in it and becomes utterly void, obeying its Sustainer, as in truth it must, O man - you [that] have, verily, been toiling towards your Sustainer in painful toil - then shall you meet Him!
Quran (84:1-6)
Quran (84:1-6)
Wheres my money gone?
Wheres my money gone?
..Is what you may be asking when you give money feesabililah [for the sake of Allah] for charity. Many a time, you’re sitting there thinking, I just gave my money, now wheres my reward. Humans want immediate results. But know Oh Muslims, for those who are patient, you shall have every single penny you ever spent feesabililah paid back not only in full, but also many times over insha’Allah.
مَّن ذَا الَّذِي يُقْرِضُ اللّهَ قَرْضًا حَسَنًا فَيُضَاعِفَهُ لَهُ أَضْعَافًا كَثِيرَةً وَاللّهُ يَقْبِضُ وَيَبْسُطُ وَإِلَيْهِ تُرْجَعُونَ
Allah [subhanahu wa ta3la] says in Surah Baqarah, verse 245: Who is he that will lend to Allah a goodly loan so that He may multiply it to him many times? And it is Allah that decreases or increases (your provisions), and unto Him you shall return.
Imagine that, the best investment in the world, guaranteed returns and profit. You dont need to be the best business person in the world to make a deal with Allah SWT…*smiles*
..Is what you may be asking when you give money feesabililah [for the sake of Allah] for charity. Many a time, you’re sitting there thinking, I just gave my money, now wheres my reward. Humans want immediate results. But know Oh Muslims, for those who are patient, you shall have every single penny you ever spent feesabililah paid back not only in full, but also many times over insha’Allah.
مَّن ذَا الَّذِي يُقْرِضُ اللّهَ قَرْضًا حَسَنًا فَيُضَاعِفَهُ لَهُ أَضْعَافًا كَثِيرَةً وَاللّهُ يَقْبِضُ وَيَبْسُطُ وَإِلَيْهِ تُرْجَعُونَ
Allah [subhanahu wa ta3la] says in Surah Baqarah, verse 245: Who is he that will lend to Allah a goodly loan so that He may multiply it to him many times? And it is Allah that decreases or increases (your provisions), and unto Him you shall return.
Imagine that, the best investment in the world, guaranteed returns and profit. You dont need to be the best business person in the world to make a deal with Allah SWT…*smiles*
The Sunnah, the Better
Well everyone knows the importance of the Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah [salAllahu alayhi wa salam] and how we as Muslims, we follow the Quran and the Sunnah. But how many of us truly try to implement the Sunnah?
The Messenger of Allah [salAllahu alayhi wa salam] said in his last sermon: I leave behind me two things. You will never go astray if you hold fast to them: The Qur’an and my Sunnah.
Even in our daily lives, we can do the most simple of actions, actions that every single one of us do, and every human does but if we do it with the right intention to please Allah and to follow the sunnah in these actions we can get rewarded insha’Allah. Simple everday actions such a saying the correct duas and eating with right hand, entering with right foot etc. subhanAllah Allah [aza wajal] has made the religion and the sunnah so beautiful *smile s
Its already written
Sometimes when things aren’t going to plan and when we have this life vision in front of us and have our life planned. Suddenly it gets turned on its head and you’re left thinking “eh how did that happen?” *scratch* Then we should know that as much as we plan, Allah [aza wajal] has already planned it for us..
Abdullah bin. ‘Amr al-’As [radiAllahu anhu] reported: I heard Allah’s Messenger [salAllahu alayhi wa salam] as saying:
Allah ordained the matters of the creation fifty thousand years before He created the heavens and the earth, as His Throne was upon water [saheeh Muslim]
subhanAllah a whole 50,000 years. Not even 50,000 years from now but a big fat five zero thousand years before creation. When suddenly a gift comes from the sky and you thought there was no way out, and Allah [aza wajal] blesses you with something you could only dream of then it was in your qadr. And if things dont work out as you wished then dont worry about it, sit back, relax and know that its already written *smiles*
This way to Jannah
Say we are on a journey and the tomtom stops working and we become lost, what a relief it is when someone comes up to us and not only offers to help but directs us to the correct path. Going through the journey of life, if we go out and seek knowledge, Allah will direct us to the correct path..
Abu Darda [radiAllahu anhu] narrated that the Messenger of Allah [salaAllahu alayhi wa salam] said:
He who treads a path in search of knowledge Allaah will direct him to tread a path from the paths of Paradise. The Angels lower their wings for the student of knowledge in approval of what he does.
Knowledge of Islam with sincerity to Allah no doubt leads to jannah. If we feel we are lost in life, do the first step which is to seek knowledge of the deen and Allah [aza wajal] will direct us to tread a path to jannah *smiles*
Abu Darda [radiAllahu anhu] narrated that the Messenger of Allah [salaAllahu alayhi wa salam] said:
He who treads a path in search of knowledge Allaah will direct him to tread a path from the paths of Paradise. The Angels lower their wings for the student of knowledge in approval of what he does.
Knowledge of Islam with sincerity to Allah no doubt leads to jannah. If we feel we are lost in life, do the first step which is to seek knowledge of the deen and Allah [aza wajal] will direct us to tread a path to jannah *smiles*
The Best Deal Ever
As Muslims it seems to be in our blood to always find a bargain, not that its a bad thing but we always seem to be searching for them buy one get one free offers and the reduced prices stickers. While we think of getting a good deal in this dunya, how many of us think about getting a good deal in the akhirah.
Allah [subhanahu wa ta3la] says in Surah Baqarah, verse 254:
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ أَنفِقُواْ مِمَّا رَزَقْنَاكُم مِّن قَبْلِ أَن يَأْتِيَ يَوْمٌ لاَّ بَيْعٌ فِيهِ
O ye who believe! Spend out of (the bounties) We have provided for you, before the Day comes when no bargaining (will avail you)..
To get a good deal in the akhirah is simple. Allah aza wajal] tells us over and over again that if we spend the money (that he bestowed upon us in the first place) for his sake; then he will repay us in the akhirah. Its like a special offer where you get 100% money back guarantee plus you get the product plus you get extras, offer ends on the day of judgement or death, whichever comes first. On that day there will be no bargaining, no good deals, no searching for a good price or even offering a good deal even if its a mountain worth of gold. Forget buy one get one free, forget 50% discount or clearance sales, the deal with Allah [aza wajal] is the best deal ever *smiles*
Allah [subhanahu wa ta3la] says in Surah Baqarah, verse 254:
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ أَنفِقُواْ مِمَّا رَزَقْنَاكُم مِّن قَبْلِ أَن يَأْتِيَ يَوْمٌ لاَّ بَيْعٌ فِيهِ
O ye who believe! Spend out of (the bounties) We have provided for you, before the Day comes when no bargaining (will avail you)..
To get a good deal in the akhirah is simple. Allah aza wajal] tells us over and over again that if we spend the money (that he bestowed upon us in the first place) for his sake; then he will repay us in the akhirah. Its like a special offer where you get 100% money back guarantee plus you get the product plus you get extras, offer ends on the day of judgement or death, whichever comes first. On that day there will be no bargaining, no good deals, no searching for a good price or even offering a good deal even if its a mountain worth of gold. Forget buy one get one free, forget 50% discount or clearance sales, the deal with Allah [aza wajal] is the best deal ever *smiles*
Adam in the Qur'an
The creation of Adam, as told in the Qur'an:
We will discuss the creation of Adam (AS) in three Ayahs (verses) only, (from Ayah 30 to a small part of Ayah 33 of Surat al-Baqara (second Surah in the Qur’an) since these Ayahs form the core of our existence.
The story of Adam (AS) is mentioned 25 times in 25 Ayahs of the Qur'ِِan with the same meaning. This same story is told with different portrayals, which indicates the miraculous nature, beauty of style and wording, and precision of meaning in the Qur'an. You will never become weary of these 25 times and this is the beauty of the Qur'an originating from Allah (SWT).
The first time Adam's story is mentioned is in Surat al-Baqara, it is rather the first story narrated in the Qur'an on the second page.
You might wonder why this is the first story in the Qur'an? It is because it holds within it the mystery of existence until the Day of Judgment. Anything we might need to live a pure, clean, righteous and happy life in this world and the hereafter is there inside; so we should know Adam's story.
You will find that, in these Ayahs, the story of Adam (AS) deals with everything that occurs in our life and also deals with what spoils it. The story of Adam (AS) is the archetype that should remain strong in our minds so as to determine the path we take in this life. Let us start with Ayah 30. In this Ayah, Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And (remember) when your Lord said to the angels, ‘Verily, I am going to place (mankind) generations after generations on earth.’” (TMQ, 2: 30)[1]. Let us start with the word ‘when.’ There is no superfluous word in the Qur'an and this word makes us visualize the event. The word ‘said’ gives a feeling of the ancient past and the word ‘when’ makes it real as if you are watching it right now.
"Verily, I am going to place (mankind) generations after generations on earth," (TMQ, 2:30). or what could also be translated as “I will create a vicegerent on earth.” Do you think Allah (SWT) is consulting His angels about whether to create Adam (AS) or not? Allah (SWT) forbid! He is going to create Adam (AS) and is only telling His angels that they are going to play a role in these peoples’ lives, so they should know about them. This is a splendid illustration; Allah (SWT) never calls anyone to account without making things clear for him first. Allah (SWT) could say, “Oh, my angels! Prostrate yourselves before Adam (AS).” They will obey, but Allah (SWT) wanted to begin life on earth by informing the angels about it.
Business Management Science today tells us that in order to convince and maximize interaction with employees, we should not start by giving orders, but rather we should meet with them and start explaining our plan.
This Ayah deals with the period that precedes the creation of Adam (AS). Adam (AS) was originally created to descend down to earth not to stay in the Jannah (paradise), and he was created from the material of the earth to live on it. That is why he was called 'Adam' which might be derived from the Arabic verb ‘adama’ i.e. to make permanent.
You might ask yourself, “If Adam (AS) was created to live on earth, why did he live in the Jannah first?” Well, he had to go through life in heaven before earth, because it is his final home. The Jannah is Adam's (AS) homeland, and you realize that your father is originally from the Jannah. As a poet said, “Salute the Garden of Eden, it is our homeland and in it is our campsite.” I wonder whether there will be a day when we return home and end this exile we live in.
Thank Allah (SWT) for starting our existence in the Jannah. Among the first things that our father saw were fruits, rivers, and the palaces of the Jannah. Do you understand now why he experienced life in the Jannah at first, before earth?
Adam (AS) was sent down to earth on a mission but his original home that he will return to is the Jannah.
You might wonder again and say, “Why did Satan whisper to Adam (AS) and make him eat from the tree, and therefore disobey Allah (SWT) so that this whole story would happen? Weren’t we descending down to earth anyway?”
I tell you, Allah (SWT) wanted to give us an example of how Satan seduces man to commit sin, and how mankind can repent.
When we were children we were taught mathematical theorems like Pythagoras Theorem and we were then given some sample exercises to apply the theory, and if we made a mistake we could refer back to the rules. Allah (SWT) wanted to give us an already solved exercise. Whenever we find ourselves unable to act, we just need to look at that solved exercise: the story of Adam (AS).
Do you see how Satan deceived Adam (AS)? In the same way he deceives us over and over again.
Look at the story of the forbidden tree. It is just like the glass of wine, adultery, or any type of temptation. The forbidden tree recurs thousands of times in our lives; Satan's style, repentance, and Allah's forgiveness all recur thousands of times in our lives.
Do you realize now why the repetition occurs 25 times? Some tendentious and obstinate people say that the Qur'an is full of repetitions. Yes, it is; and that is intended for those who do not understand the concept from one reading, so it is repeated for them to understand; and for those who forget the story of their origin, it is therefore repeated for them.
The aim of this story, with its examples of sin, and repentance, is that when you are resurrected for account on the Day of Judgment, you will not say, “Oh, Allah, I was never informed!” No, the already solved example is here in front of you. Allah (SWT) will not let us say, “Oh Allah, I was not informed, I did not know.” Each and every one of us was given his chance and a version of this experience.
Why did Allah (SWT) create earth in the first place?
We needed to descend to earth because, as human beings, part of our makeup is that we do not realize the value of things unless we strive to get them; and if we get something easily we do not place much value on it, we then tend to give it away easily and will not be able to appreciate the magnificent blessing we have.
We see this example in ourselves and our relatives; your father has emigrated, struggled for 20 years in the Gulf, for example. Then you bought a car, took a ride and crashed it. You would not be as sad as your father would be. If you had been the one who bought it, not him, you would have taken care of it and felt the blessing of having it.
Allah (SWT) wanted us to go down to earth so that we may long to return to the Jannah, realizing its value. Therefore, only believers lived on earth. Why? Because they were the ones who longed for the Jannah; and those who did not, would pass by the hell. They are the ones who, with great difficulty, resist committing a sin when they could have easily done it because they want to please Allah (SWT), whom they cannot see; besides, they want to go to the Jannah.
I ask you by Allah (SWT), if you worked hard in this world, fasted Mondays and Thursdays while the weather was very hot, prayed in the mosque when it was bitter cold, obeyed Allah (SWT) and resisted sins, where would your position be when the doors of the Jannah are being opened? You would enter running and saying, “Is this the Jannah I worked for all my 60 years?” Do you see how delightful this is? This is also Allah's blessing upon us, that He created us with this nature so that we are able to love the Jannah more.
Imagine if you obeyed Allah (SWT) for 20 years and then met Him, what would that moment be like?
Imagine that you are walking along a street, you are tempted to take an unlawful glance; just say to yourself, “No, Allah can see me; I cannot disobey Him while He sees me.” You are about to take forbidden money; say, “I cannot, Allah (SWT) sees me and is watching me right now.” In Surat al-Alaq, Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Knows he not that Allah does see (what he does)?” (TMQ, 96: 14), but you do not see Him.
Imagine the Day of Judgment when Allah (SWT) calls out, “Oh my servants! Oh inhabitants of the Jannah! Where are my servants who obeyed me without seeing me? Today is the day of abundance, so ask Me for whatever you want.”
They agree on one thing only; and that is, “Oh Allah, be satisfied with us.”
He says then, “I would never have granted you my Jannah if I were not satisfied with you, but ask Me for something else.” They all agree on another thing; “Let us see Your face so we can look upon it.” His veils then falls down-the 60 years of obedience will seem to be a blessing and joy-and you will see Allah (SWT), so they will see Allah. Nothing they were ever granted since their birth will be as dear to them as the pleasure of looking at Allah's noble face. There will be a long conversation between Allah (SWT) and each one of them. Allah (SWT) will then say to each one, “Oh my servant, I am satisfied with you, but are you satisfied with Me?” Surely the deprived ones are those who did not know Allah (SWT) in this world. The servant then feels ashamed and says, “Of course I am satisfied with you, My Lord.” Allah (SWT) then says, “Do you remember that certain sin which you committed?” The servant says, “Haven't you pardoned me for it?” Allah (SWT) says, “Yes I did, and with my forgiveness for what you did in your first life, you reached this place.”
Do you now understand why we came to this world?
We came so that we could know Allah (SWT); obey Him without seeing Him. Because when we obey Allah (SWT) without seeing Him and long for the Jannah without seeing it, we reach perfection of faith and sincerity, and we are then counted among the people of the Jannah.
You will see Allah (SWT) in the Jannah as long as you obeyed Him without seeing Him in this world.
The Prophet (SAWS[2]) was once asked, "Who has the highest rank in the Jannah?" He answered, "It is he who will see Allah (SWT) in the morning and at night."[3] Our ranks in the Jannah, as far as seeing Allah (SWT), vary according to our obedience to Him without having seen Him in this worldly life.
We reach now the translated phrase, "generations after generations on earth” (TMQ, 2:30) or “a vicegerent on earth.” The meaning of this phrase is that Allah (SWT) created Adam (AS) and his children to be responsible for this earth, and to live a life of obedience. Therefore, Allah (SWT) said, [paraphrased in meaning] “Oh Adam, go down to earth, I will let you and your children live on it generations after generations. You will be My vicegerent on earth and I will subject angels, animals, wind, seas, mountains, and the whole universe to you. Oh Adam, go down and manage the world in a satisfactory way.”
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "Believe in Allah and His Messenger (Muhammad), and spend of that whereof He has made you trustees." (TMQ, 57:7) Keep this trust and employ it in obeying Me. I want the whole world to worship Me. You, children of Adam, are responsible for that.
You must keep this Ayah always foremost in your mind. "O Dawud (David)! Verily! We have placed you as a successor on the earth; so judge you between men in truth (and justice) (TMQ, 38:26). We call Abu-Baker (RA) a Caliph (successor of Prophet Muhammad), because he was a successor of the trust left by Prophet Muhammad (SAWS). When you have children, people say, “you now have successors,” which means you have got someone to pass on your name and property. This is on the personal level only.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "Truly, We did offer al-Amanah (the trust or moral responsibility) to the heavens and the earth, and the mountains, but they declined to bear it and were afraid of it (i.e. afraid of Allah’s Torment). But man bore it.” (TMQ, 33:72). You are a successor or a vicegerent in this world.
The most important question to ask yourself is: Why have I been created? The ancient civilizations and philosophies had view points about the purpose of our creation.
1. Plato said that God created the universe then He forgot about it. That is why people are fighting and killing one another. Allah (SWT) answers that in what can be translated as, “…and your Lord is never forgetful…" (TMQ, 19:64).
2. Marx said, “God wanted to be amused so he created people to watch them playing and killing one another.” Allah (SWT) answers that in what can be translated as, “Did you think that We had created you in play (without any purpose), and that you would not be brought back to Us? So Exalted be Allah, the True King.” (TMQ, 23:115-116).
3. If we ask people in the streets why they have been created. Do you think they would know the answer or would they only repeat things they memorized without understanding?
4. The well-known American Lebanese poet Ilia Abu-Maddi said in his famous poem ‘Attalasim’
“I came not knowing from where, but I came.
And I saw a pathway in front of me, so I walked.
And I will remain walking, whether I want this or not.
How did I come? I do not know.
How did I see my pathway? I do not know.”
These words do not imply atheism, but they are a sign of misunderstanding. ecause of that, the story of Adam (AS) was mentioned in the first two pages in Surat al-Baqara. The repetition of the story was also necessary. Thus, have you been created only to eat, drink, get married, have children and die?
Is it possible that Allah (SWT) has created this beautiful universe, raised the skies, and made the sun rises in precision for such a purpose? Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “It is not for the sun to overtake the moon, nor does the night outstrip the day.” (TMQ, 36: 40). In addition, Allah (SWT) sent angels who descend from the heavens to surround us. There are two angels; one on the right and another on the left of each one of us all the time. Allah (SWT) sent divine books from the heavens and sent messengers. Can all that be only for food, drink, marriage and death?
We have been created for two purposes:
Firstly, Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And I (Allah) created not the jinn and mankind except that they should worship Me (Alone).” (TMQ, 51: 56). On the individual level, you need to be obedient to Allah (SWT). You can continue to live your life the way you wish, have fun and go out with your friends. There are youth who are afraid of becoming religious because they think that they will be depressed and deprived, as if they are in a jail. This is not true. What you need to do is to have an intention for every action in your life, and this is how you fulfill the worship in every minute of your life.
Why are you going to have children? Just to enjoy and play with them. No, instead say: I will raise a child who will, after ten years, be someone who prostrate and worship Allah (SWT); someone who will memorize the Holy Qur’an and be like Salah-Uddin (Saladin-the great Muslim leader); someone who will be religious and will do more for Islam than what I was able to do when I was young. With this intention, each moment you spend with your children you will receive thawab (a reward from Allah (SWT)). The time which the mother spends in cooking or cleaning after her children, and the money which the father earns for his family, all this will be counted as hassanat (good deeds) for both of them. This is how they implement the previous Ayah.
You can worship Allah (SWT) in every moment in your life. Omar Ibn Abdul-Aziz (a great Muslim caliph) has never taken any step without having an intention. Once a man asked him to accompany him to visit someone, he said, “Wait a moment for me to review my intention.”
If you want to play soccer and take a reward from Allah (SWT), every drop of sweat can be counted as a good deed with this intention, “I am young and I have energy, which can be used in a sin. My Lord, I will go to play soccer with my friends to use this energy to prevent myself from disobeying you and to get back home tired.” With this intention, whenever you run to catch the ball you will take reward. The intention alone can turn all your life into worship even if you are not in the mosque.
You work to earn money. Try to make the intention of your work to be making Muslims excel in their work, become successful in life and push Islam forward to be supreme. With such an intention, you receive reward for each moment of your work.
You study because your father told you so. Try to study with the intention of achieving success and distinction that may do something good for Islam. With such an intention, you receive reward every time you hold your pen.
Following this method, we can all worship Allah (SWT) by intention and change our habits into worship. Proper intention can change the habit to worship. Ibnul-Qayem said, “Each breath and each drop of sweat released in this life without being for the sake of Allah (SWT) will become a regret and remorse on the Day of Judgment.” Allah (SWT) has created us to remember Him for 24 hours everyday, not only during the five prayers.
Secondly, Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “I will create a vicegerent on earth.” or “Verily, I am going to place (mankind) generations after generations on earth.” (TMQ, 2:30). This Ayah means that we are created also to fix this universe. The first question you will be asked on the Day of Judgment, “What did you do in life? What did you add?”
The first thing you will be asked about is the praying. This question is related to the worship. However, you will be asked about your belief before your worship. When asked, many youth would say, “I do not know, I just fasted.” No, this is a wrong answer.
Instead you should say that your existence in life was for two reasons:
1. To worship Allah (SWT) every moment in your life and feel the enjoyment on the personal level
2. To spread goodness around you and guide people to Allah (SWT).
The Prophet (SAWS) said in a Good Hadith, “Enjoin good and forbid evil otherwise Allah (SWT) will punish you then you pray to Him, but He will not respond to you.[4]”
If you asked a man, “Does your wife pray?” Do your children pray? He may say, “It is none of my business, the important thing is that they eat and drink.”
Be a vicegerent, but “… and argue with them in a way that is better,” (TMQ, 16:125), and be gentle when you guide people to Allah (SWT). Each one of us is a vicegerent in the place where Allah (SWT) has placed him. Do not say, “Am I the one who will fix the whole universe?” Not necessarily, but you can fix your area, your neighbor, your sister.
Sheikh al-Sha’rawy (the great Egyptian scholar) said, “Man has forsaken the truth of his existence over the course of history and forgot that he is a vicegerent on earth.”
Now the population on earth is six billion. How many of them believe in Allah (SWT)? How many are disbelievers? How many do not believe in anything and are lost?
Every night ask yourself what are you going to say to Allah (SWT) on the Day of Judgment? Were you a vicegerent or not?
Ibrahim Ibn-Adham, who was one of the great good successors, did not begin his life being obedient but he was playing with horses. He had no aim but riding his horse and go hunting, like many youth nowadays. He was very rich. Once, while he was on his horse, an old man came and held the bridle of his horse and said to him a few words that turned his life upside down. Concentrate and try to hear them with your mind and heart. “O Ibrahim, is this why you were created for or by this you were commanded?” Ibrahim said, “After I heard these words, I spent the night thinking is this why I was created for or by this was I commanded? Only then I knew my Lord and returned to Allah (SWT). It was my day of birth when I understood the meaning of the Ayah which can be translated as, “I will create a vicegerent on earth.”(TMQ, 2:30).
During the reign of Caliph Abu–Bakr As-Sidiq (RA), there was a horse race in a city in Palestine. Bilal (RA), one of the companions of the prophet (SAWS), was in this city at that time. During the race, Bilal (RA) was standing away when he saw a young man passing next to him. He was very busy by the race, and asked him, “Who won?” Bilal (RA) said, “The nearest to Allah (SWT).” The youth said, “I am asking you about the race (of the horses).” Bilal said, “And I am guiding you to the goodness.”
Ibn–Taymiyah (a successor) said, “The people of this life are pitiful, they left the life without knowing the best thing in life. Then he was asked, “What is the best thing in life?” He said, “Knowing Allah, fulfilling the commands of Allah (SWT), pleasing Allah, and guiding people to His way.”
Abdul-Qader al-Kilany (a successor) said, “Whenever I guide someone to Allah (SWT), my soul becomes satisfied and I feel that I do not need food or drink anymore.”
Let us continue the ayah where Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “They said, ‘Will You place therein those who will make mischief therein and shed blood,-While we glorify You we glorify You with praises and thanks and sanctify You.’" (TMQ, 2:30). The angels said that because they were afraid that they fell short in their duties to Allah (SWT), and that Allah (SWT) wanted to substitute or exchange them.
Is any obedient servant of Allah (SWT) afraid of being substituted or exchanged? You should be afraid that you may get lost after Allah (SWT) has guided you. Substitution occurs at the moment you feel pride because of your obedience. Whenever you think the Hijab (cover for hair for women), prayers in mosque or attending religious lecture and crying out of being emotionally affected, these are the epic of obedience. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And if you turn away (from Islam and the obedience to Allah), He will exchange you for some other people and they will not be your likes.” (TMQ, 47:38).
Abu-Bakr (RA) said, “Even if one of my feet is in the Jannah and the other one is out, I am firm, and obedient to You My Lord.”
How did the angels know that man is going to make mischief and shed blood? The earth, before Adam (AS), was ruled by Jinn who made great mischief. They shed blood, killed each other, and created havoc. As a result, Allah (SWT) sent down angels in order to dismiss Jinn from earth and confine them to sea islands. Since that time, the Jinn have been dwelling in the sea islands. This is how the angels knew before the creation what is going to happen.
There is another beautiful remark. Did you notice Allah's mercy when he let the angels converse with Him? Some parents bring up their children on the assumption that they know everything, while their children know nothing; and that children should do what their parents order them without even thinking. You should teach your children how to engage in discussions. We should learn from this Ayah the word “they said.” They did not say their opinion out of opposition. Some men, without citing reasons, order their wives not to leave the house in a very oppressive way. There is also a known Hadith which says, “Consult them, and then do the opposite.” This Hadith is weak. Imagine when your wife tells you her view point regarding something then you tell her, “You think so? I will do the opposite.” This is not a proper way; you should consult her.
Another remark regarding the following part of the Ayah which can be translated as, "…we glorify You with praises and thanks and sanctify You" (TMQ, 2: 30). In pertinence to this Ayah, the Prophet (SAWS) narrates that while on al-Mi'raj (the Prophet’s ascension to the seventh Heaven), he heard a voice in the sky coming from all directions, saying, "Glorified be Allah the Exalted, the Most High." After a short while he heard, "Glorified be Allah, the Incomparably Great." They were the angels glorifying Allah (SWT). You see? Allah (SWT) does not need us, so glorify Him. The Prophet (SAWS) says, "He who says, ‘Glorified be Allah, and all praise is due to Him,’ a hundred times in a day, all his sins are forgiven, even if they are as much as sea foam.”[5] Therefore, you should glorify Allah (SWT) as much as you can.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "I know that which you do not know" (TMQ, 2: 30). It is true that there will be human beings who will shed blood and kill each other; but, on the other hand, there will be true believers; prophets; messengers; martyrs and honest people. A young man, who remains submissive to Allah (SWT) amidst abundant sins and turmoil, is dearer to Allah (SWT) than an earth full of disbelievers and sinners. Allah (SWT) created the universe for you. Think before you disobey Him; for He knows everything, and you know nothing. You are the one meant by this Ayah. You see how dear you are to Allah (SWT)?
In the next Ayah, Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as "And He taught Adam all the names (of everything)" (TMQ, 2:31). This Ayah refers to the names of in-animate bodies, animals, plants, angels, and means of technology…etc, for example, the sea contains fish and the fishnet should be thrown in the sea in a certain way to catch fish. Then, you should rub two stones together to produce fire, so that you can grill fish and eat it. This seed is called ‘wheat.’ You can plant it in the soil until the rain falls and the seed grows to be a plant.
Adam (AS) was not just a pious man; he was also knowledgeable in the matters of the universe. Allah (SWT) taught him the names because He destined him to be a vicegerent on earth. Accordingly, he should be experienced in earthly matters. How could he be a vicegerent on earth if he was a failure?
Do you want to be a vicegerent on earth? You might say, “I pray regularly, I am even the Imam of the mosque, but I am not successful in my studies.” Subsequently, you are a failure. Even more, you are a sinner; since you did not fulfill the requirements of becoming a vicegerent. In order to undertake this responsibility, you should have two things, religion and knowledge.
Religion without knowledge amounts to failure. Knowledge without religion amounts to sin and disobedience. Religion and knowledge should go together. A housewife who prays and does her housework, but is concerned more with attending Qur'an lessons does not understand her role quite well. Her role as a vicegerent is to succeed at home first. It was not proper for Adam (AS) to inhabit the earth before learning. We want a successful Muslim. Omar Ibnul-Khattab (RA) says, "I am not cunning, but the cunning can not deceive me." We want a successful Muslim who studies not only to pass the exam but also to be useful to Islam. Do you see the value of education and knowledge in Islam? In spite of the first Ayah, "And He taught Adam all the names (of everything)" (TMQ, 2:31), 50% of our nation is illiterate, and our youths are not cultured. Allah (SWT) says in the Qur'an what can be translated as, "Allah will exalt in degree those of you who believe, and those who have been granted knowledge." (TMQ, 58:11). He who fails in his studies and does not want to succeed is a sinner. The Hadith says, "He who follows a path in which he seeks knowledge, Allah (SWT) facilitates for him a path to the Jannah."[6] Allah (SWT), His angels and the inhabitants of the heavens and the earth, even the ant in its burrow and the whale, bless those who teach people goodness.”[7] Do you see the value of knowledge?
In the next Ayah, Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "…then He showed them to the angels and said, 'Tell Me the names of these if you are truthful." (TMQ, 2: 31). The angels know only about religion; they have nothing to do with worldly affairs. "They (angels) said, 'Glory be to You, we have no knowledge except what you have taught us'" (TMQ, 2:32). Then Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “He said,’ O Adam! Inform them of their names.’” (TMQ, 2:33). Hence, Adam (AS) named this and that, he explained how this plant is irrigated this way; and how food is obtained that way. The angels were amazed, therefore Allah (SWT) told them what can be translated as, “Did I not tell you…” (TMQ, 2:33) (i.e. that there is a human being who is going to be a believer and at the same time experienced in worldly affairs?)
It is as if the world was created for the believers who master both worldly and religious affairs. You have to be keen on making your own imprint on life: religion; knowledge; reforming people and society. What have you added to life? Mustafa Sadeq ar-Raf'ie says, "If you do not add something to life, then you are redundant."
The angels rendered that their job is only Allah’s worship. Hence, Allah (SWT) calls on Adam (AS) (since he is a worshipper like all of you, but he has experience in worldly affairs and he knows good and evil) and ordered the angels to prostrate before him. Did you notice when the prostration occurred? It occurred after Adam (AS) had mastered both religion and worldly affairs. If you, as well, master both religion and worldly affairs, you deserve angels to prostrate before you, for you will be similar to Adam (AS) when the angels prostrated before him.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "We said to the angels, ' Prostrate yourselves before Adam.'" (TMQ, 2:34). Did all the angels prostrate before Adam (AS)? Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "So the angels prostrated themselves, all of them together." (TMQ, 15:30). It was an honoring ceremony for Adam (AS). Is it acceptable to prostrate before someone other than Allah (SWT)? No, they prostrated before Allah (SWT). Adam (AS) was only the Kiblah (prayer direction). They did not worship Adam (AS); this prostration was only for showing respect and submission to him. The angels are subjected to us if we master both religion and worldly affairs. You might wonder, “Could I be better than the angels?” Yes, and you are going to be even more privileged to Allah (SWT) since both the earth and the heaven might not know Allah's stature, but the believer is the best one to know His stature. You see how much has Allah (SWT) honored humans? Why, then, do we degrade ourselves?
The following are the forms of honoring Adam (AS):
1. He was created from dust and water – the cleanest and purest elements.
2. Allah (SWT) formed him with His divine hands. "…What prevents you from prostrating yourself to one whom I have created with Both My Hands" ( TMQ, 38:75).
3. Allah (SWT) gave him a breath of His soul, "so, when I have fashioned him completely and breathed into him (Adam) the soul which I created for him…" (TMQ, 15:29).
4. All the angels prostrated to him.
5. Satan was kicked out of the Jannah because he refused to prostrate to Adam (AS).
6. Allah (SWT) subjected the angels to Adam (AS).
7. The universe was created to be utilized by Adam (AS).
8. Allah (SWT) taught Adam (AS) all the names.
Glorified be Allah (SWT).
Surat at-Tin is a wonderful Surah which makes you sense how Allah (SWT) honors you. "By the fig, and the olive. By Mount Sinai. By this city of security (Makkah). Verily, We created man in the best stature (mould).Then We reduced him to the lowest of the low." (TMQ, 95:1-5).
Here, Allah (SWT) swears by three things:
1. The figs and the olives.
2. Mount Sinai (where Allah (SWT) spoke to Moses).
3. The holy city (Makkah).
Figs and olives, here, are only symbolic to the place which is known by its figs and olives (Palestine). They are not meant for themselves. Do you see the oath? What is the relation between figs and olives (Palestine), Mount Sinai, “…take off your shoes; you are in the sacred valley, Tuwa" (TMQ, 20:12), the holy city (Makkah) and between creating Man in the best form? These places are the holiest spots on earth. Allah (SWT) is swearing by the holiest places on earth that He has created Man in the best form. There is the holiness of Makkah, the holiness of al-Tour Mountain, and the holiness of Palestine, then Allah (SWT) states that He has created us in the best honored form. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "Then We reduced him to the lowest of the low." (TMQ, 95:5). When man, who was created in the best form, commits sins, he is lowered to the worst rank, "Save those who believe (in Islamic Monotheism) and do righteous deeds. Then they shall have a reward without end (Paradise)." (TMQ, 95:6).
Let us look at these Ahadith in order to see how much you were honored by Allah (SWT). Allah (SWT) says in a Hadith Qudsi (sacred Hadith), “… and My slave keeps on coming closer to Me through performing nawafil (praying or doing extra deeds besides what is obligatory) till I love him, so I become his sense of hearing with which he hears, and his sense of sight with which he sees, and his hand with which he grips, and his leg with which he walks; and if he asks Me, I will give him, and if he asks My protection (refuge), I will protect him; (i.e. give him My refuge)….”[8]
In another Hadith, the Prophet (SAWS) said, "If Allah loves a person, He calls Gabriel, saying, “Allah loves so and so, O Gabriel love him,” so Gabriel would love him and then would make an announcement in the heavens, “Allah has loved so and-so therefore you should love him also,” so all the dwellers of the heavens would love him, and then he is granted the pleasure of the people on the earth." [9]
Allah (SWT) says in another Hadith Qudsi that if a person, “ … comes one span nearer to Me, I go one cubit nearer to him; and if he comes one cubit nearer to Me, I go a distance of two outstretched arms nearer to him; and if he comes to Me walking, I go to him running.” [10] Allah (SWT) loves us so much and waits for the day when we get closer to Him, and know our aim in life. Allah (SWT) ordered the angels to prostrate to Adam (AS) because man is precious and dear to Him. Do not devaluate your stature by committing sins and forgetting about the purpose of your existence in life.
A final comment:
Consider the scope of Allah’s honor. It is a bountiful bestowing of honor, don’t you think? Compare this to Darwin’s theory which states that man started as a germ on the surface of the water. This germ then evolved into a microorganism, which in turn evolved into a frog, then to a fish, then to a monkey, and finally into a human being.
As a human soul, which do you prefer: the monkey or Adam (AS)? Why did not all animals and monkeys evolve into human beings? Look at Allah's words that can be translated as, "And indeed We have honored the Children of Adam, and We have carried them on land and sea, and have provided them with at-Tayyibat (lawful good things), and have preferred them above many of those whom We have created with a marked preferment" (TMQ, 17:70).
[1] TMQ=Translation of the Meaning of the Qur'an. This translation is for the realized meaning, so far, of the stated (Surah :Ayah) of the Qur'an. Reading the translated meaning of the Qur'an can never replace reading it in Arabic, the language in which it was revealed.
[2] Sala-llahu Alahi Wa Salam = All Prayers and Peace of Allah be upon him.
[3] Narrated by Ibn-Omar, Sunnan at-Tirmidhi, No .2677.
[4] Narrated Hudhaifa, Sunnan at-Tirmidhi, No .2259.
4 Authentic Hadith, Narrated Abu Huraira Sahih Bukhari, No. 6042.
[6] Authentic Hadith, narrated by Abu Huraira, Sahih Muslim, no. 2699
6 Authentic, Strange and Good Hadith, narrated by Abu Umamah, Sunnan At-Tirmidhi, no. 2826.
[8] Authentic Hadith narrated by Abu Huraira, Sahih Al-Bukhari, No. 6137
[9] Authentic Hadith narrated by Abu Huraira, Sahih Muslim, No .2637
[10] Authentic Hadith narrated by Abu Huraira, Sahih Muslim, No. 2675
AmrKhaled.net
We will discuss the creation of Adam (AS) in three Ayahs (verses) only, (from Ayah 30 to a small part of Ayah 33 of Surat al-Baqara (second Surah in the Qur’an) since these Ayahs form the core of our existence.
The story of Adam (AS) is mentioned 25 times in 25 Ayahs of the Qur'ِِan with the same meaning. This same story is told with different portrayals, which indicates the miraculous nature, beauty of style and wording, and precision of meaning in the Qur'an. You will never become weary of these 25 times and this is the beauty of the Qur'an originating from Allah (SWT).
The first time Adam's story is mentioned is in Surat al-Baqara, it is rather the first story narrated in the Qur'an on the second page.
You might wonder why this is the first story in the Qur'an? It is because it holds within it the mystery of existence until the Day of Judgment. Anything we might need to live a pure, clean, righteous and happy life in this world and the hereafter is there inside; so we should know Adam's story.
You will find that, in these Ayahs, the story of Adam (AS) deals with everything that occurs in our life and also deals with what spoils it. The story of Adam (AS) is the archetype that should remain strong in our minds so as to determine the path we take in this life. Let us start with Ayah 30. In this Ayah, Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And (remember) when your Lord said to the angels, ‘Verily, I am going to place (mankind) generations after generations on earth.’” (TMQ, 2: 30)[1]. Let us start with the word ‘when.’ There is no superfluous word in the Qur'an and this word makes us visualize the event. The word ‘said’ gives a feeling of the ancient past and the word ‘when’ makes it real as if you are watching it right now.
"Verily, I am going to place (mankind) generations after generations on earth," (TMQ, 2:30). or what could also be translated as “I will create a vicegerent on earth.” Do you think Allah (SWT) is consulting His angels about whether to create Adam (AS) or not? Allah (SWT) forbid! He is going to create Adam (AS) and is only telling His angels that they are going to play a role in these peoples’ lives, so they should know about them. This is a splendid illustration; Allah (SWT) never calls anyone to account without making things clear for him first. Allah (SWT) could say, “Oh, my angels! Prostrate yourselves before Adam (AS).” They will obey, but Allah (SWT) wanted to begin life on earth by informing the angels about it.
Business Management Science today tells us that in order to convince and maximize interaction with employees, we should not start by giving orders, but rather we should meet with them and start explaining our plan.
This Ayah deals with the period that precedes the creation of Adam (AS). Adam (AS) was originally created to descend down to earth not to stay in the Jannah (paradise), and he was created from the material of the earth to live on it. That is why he was called 'Adam' which might be derived from the Arabic verb ‘adama’ i.e. to make permanent.
You might ask yourself, “If Adam (AS) was created to live on earth, why did he live in the Jannah first?” Well, he had to go through life in heaven before earth, because it is his final home. The Jannah is Adam's (AS) homeland, and you realize that your father is originally from the Jannah. As a poet said, “Salute the Garden of Eden, it is our homeland and in it is our campsite.” I wonder whether there will be a day when we return home and end this exile we live in.
Thank Allah (SWT) for starting our existence in the Jannah. Among the first things that our father saw were fruits, rivers, and the palaces of the Jannah. Do you understand now why he experienced life in the Jannah at first, before earth?
Adam (AS) was sent down to earth on a mission but his original home that he will return to is the Jannah.
You might wonder again and say, “Why did Satan whisper to Adam (AS) and make him eat from the tree, and therefore disobey Allah (SWT) so that this whole story would happen? Weren’t we descending down to earth anyway?”
I tell you, Allah (SWT) wanted to give us an example of how Satan seduces man to commit sin, and how mankind can repent.
When we were children we were taught mathematical theorems like Pythagoras Theorem and we were then given some sample exercises to apply the theory, and if we made a mistake we could refer back to the rules. Allah (SWT) wanted to give us an already solved exercise. Whenever we find ourselves unable to act, we just need to look at that solved exercise: the story of Adam (AS).
Do you see how Satan deceived Adam (AS)? In the same way he deceives us over and over again.
Look at the story of the forbidden tree. It is just like the glass of wine, adultery, or any type of temptation. The forbidden tree recurs thousands of times in our lives; Satan's style, repentance, and Allah's forgiveness all recur thousands of times in our lives.
Do you realize now why the repetition occurs 25 times? Some tendentious and obstinate people say that the Qur'an is full of repetitions. Yes, it is; and that is intended for those who do not understand the concept from one reading, so it is repeated for them to understand; and for those who forget the story of their origin, it is therefore repeated for them.
The aim of this story, with its examples of sin, and repentance, is that when you are resurrected for account on the Day of Judgment, you will not say, “Oh, Allah, I was never informed!” No, the already solved example is here in front of you. Allah (SWT) will not let us say, “Oh Allah, I was not informed, I did not know.” Each and every one of us was given his chance and a version of this experience.
Why did Allah (SWT) create earth in the first place?
We needed to descend to earth because, as human beings, part of our makeup is that we do not realize the value of things unless we strive to get them; and if we get something easily we do not place much value on it, we then tend to give it away easily and will not be able to appreciate the magnificent blessing we have.
We see this example in ourselves and our relatives; your father has emigrated, struggled for 20 years in the Gulf, for example. Then you bought a car, took a ride and crashed it. You would not be as sad as your father would be. If you had been the one who bought it, not him, you would have taken care of it and felt the blessing of having it.
Allah (SWT) wanted us to go down to earth so that we may long to return to the Jannah, realizing its value. Therefore, only believers lived on earth. Why? Because they were the ones who longed for the Jannah; and those who did not, would pass by the hell. They are the ones who, with great difficulty, resist committing a sin when they could have easily done it because they want to please Allah (SWT), whom they cannot see; besides, they want to go to the Jannah.
I ask you by Allah (SWT), if you worked hard in this world, fasted Mondays and Thursdays while the weather was very hot, prayed in the mosque when it was bitter cold, obeyed Allah (SWT) and resisted sins, where would your position be when the doors of the Jannah are being opened? You would enter running and saying, “Is this the Jannah I worked for all my 60 years?” Do you see how delightful this is? This is also Allah's blessing upon us, that He created us with this nature so that we are able to love the Jannah more.
Imagine if you obeyed Allah (SWT) for 20 years and then met Him, what would that moment be like?
Imagine that you are walking along a street, you are tempted to take an unlawful glance; just say to yourself, “No, Allah can see me; I cannot disobey Him while He sees me.” You are about to take forbidden money; say, “I cannot, Allah (SWT) sees me and is watching me right now.” In Surat al-Alaq, Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Knows he not that Allah does see (what he does)?” (TMQ, 96: 14), but you do not see Him.
Imagine the Day of Judgment when Allah (SWT) calls out, “Oh my servants! Oh inhabitants of the Jannah! Where are my servants who obeyed me without seeing me? Today is the day of abundance, so ask Me for whatever you want.”
They agree on one thing only; and that is, “Oh Allah, be satisfied with us.”
He says then, “I would never have granted you my Jannah if I were not satisfied with you, but ask Me for something else.” They all agree on another thing; “Let us see Your face so we can look upon it.” His veils then falls down-the 60 years of obedience will seem to be a blessing and joy-and you will see Allah (SWT), so they will see Allah. Nothing they were ever granted since their birth will be as dear to them as the pleasure of looking at Allah's noble face. There will be a long conversation between Allah (SWT) and each one of them. Allah (SWT) will then say to each one, “Oh my servant, I am satisfied with you, but are you satisfied with Me?” Surely the deprived ones are those who did not know Allah (SWT) in this world. The servant then feels ashamed and says, “Of course I am satisfied with you, My Lord.” Allah (SWT) then says, “Do you remember that certain sin which you committed?” The servant says, “Haven't you pardoned me for it?” Allah (SWT) says, “Yes I did, and with my forgiveness for what you did in your first life, you reached this place.”
Do you now understand why we came to this world?
We came so that we could know Allah (SWT); obey Him without seeing Him. Because when we obey Allah (SWT) without seeing Him and long for the Jannah without seeing it, we reach perfection of faith and sincerity, and we are then counted among the people of the Jannah.
You will see Allah (SWT) in the Jannah as long as you obeyed Him without seeing Him in this world.
The Prophet (SAWS[2]) was once asked, "Who has the highest rank in the Jannah?" He answered, "It is he who will see Allah (SWT) in the morning and at night."[3] Our ranks in the Jannah, as far as seeing Allah (SWT), vary according to our obedience to Him without having seen Him in this worldly life.
We reach now the translated phrase, "generations after generations on earth” (TMQ, 2:30) or “a vicegerent on earth.” The meaning of this phrase is that Allah (SWT) created Adam (AS) and his children to be responsible for this earth, and to live a life of obedience. Therefore, Allah (SWT) said, [paraphrased in meaning] “Oh Adam, go down to earth, I will let you and your children live on it generations after generations. You will be My vicegerent on earth and I will subject angels, animals, wind, seas, mountains, and the whole universe to you. Oh Adam, go down and manage the world in a satisfactory way.”
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "Believe in Allah and His Messenger (Muhammad), and spend of that whereof He has made you trustees." (TMQ, 57:7) Keep this trust and employ it in obeying Me. I want the whole world to worship Me. You, children of Adam, are responsible for that.
You must keep this Ayah always foremost in your mind. "O Dawud (David)! Verily! We have placed you as a successor on the earth; so judge you between men in truth (and justice) (TMQ, 38:26). We call Abu-Baker (RA) a Caliph (successor of Prophet Muhammad), because he was a successor of the trust left by Prophet Muhammad (SAWS). When you have children, people say, “you now have successors,” which means you have got someone to pass on your name and property. This is on the personal level only.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "Truly, We did offer al-Amanah (the trust or moral responsibility) to the heavens and the earth, and the mountains, but they declined to bear it and were afraid of it (i.e. afraid of Allah’s Torment). But man bore it.” (TMQ, 33:72). You are a successor or a vicegerent in this world.
The most important question to ask yourself is: Why have I been created? The ancient civilizations and philosophies had view points about the purpose of our creation.
1. Plato said that God created the universe then He forgot about it. That is why people are fighting and killing one another. Allah (SWT) answers that in what can be translated as, “…and your Lord is never forgetful…" (TMQ, 19:64).
2. Marx said, “God wanted to be amused so he created people to watch them playing and killing one another.” Allah (SWT) answers that in what can be translated as, “Did you think that We had created you in play (without any purpose), and that you would not be brought back to Us? So Exalted be Allah, the True King.” (TMQ, 23:115-116).
3. If we ask people in the streets why they have been created. Do you think they would know the answer or would they only repeat things they memorized without understanding?
4. The well-known American Lebanese poet Ilia Abu-Maddi said in his famous poem ‘Attalasim’
“I came not knowing from where, but I came.
And I saw a pathway in front of me, so I walked.
And I will remain walking, whether I want this or not.
How did I come? I do not know.
How did I see my pathway? I do not know.”
These words do not imply atheism, but they are a sign of misunderstanding. ecause of that, the story of Adam (AS) was mentioned in the first two pages in Surat al-Baqara. The repetition of the story was also necessary. Thus, have you been created only to eat, drink, get married, have children and die?
Is it possible that Allah (SWT) has created this beautiful universe, raised the skies, and made the sun rises in precision for such a purpose? Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “It is not for the sun to overtake the moon, nor does the night outstrip the day.” (TMQ, 36: 40). In addition, Allah (SWT) sent angels who descend from the heavens to surround us. There are two angels; one on the right and another on the left of each one of us all the time. Allah (SWT) sent divine books from the heavens and sent messengers. Can all that be only for food, drink, marriage and death?
We have been created for two purposes:
Firstly, Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And I (Allah) created not the jinn and mankind except that they should worship Me (Alone).” (TMQ, 51: 56). On the individual level, you need to be obedient to Allah (SWT). You can continue to live your life the way you wish, have fun and go out with your friends. There are youth who are afraid of becoming religious because they think that they will be depressed and deprived, as if they are in a jail. This is not true. What you need to do is to have an intention for every action in your life, and this is how you fulfill the worship in every minute of your life.
Why are you going to have children? Just to enjoy and play with them. No, instead say: I will raise a child who will, after ten years, be someone who prostrate and worship Allah (SWT); someone who will memorize the Holy Qur’an and be like Salah-Uddin (Saladin-the great Muslim leader); someone who will be religious and will do more for Islam than what I was able to do when I was young. With this intention, each moment you spend with your children you will receive thawab (a reward from Allah (SWT)). The time which the mother spends in cooking or cleaning after her children, and the money which the father earns for his family, all this will be counted as hassanat (good deeds) for both of them. This is how they implement the previous Ayah.
You can worship Allah (SWT) in every moment in your life. Omar Ibn Abdul-Aziz (a great Muslim caliph) has never taken any step without having an intention. Once a man asked him to accompany him to visit someone, he said, “Wait a moment for me to review my intention.”
If you want to play soccer and take a reward from Allah (SWT), every drop of sweat can be counted as a good deed with this intention, “I am young and I have energy, which can be used in a sin. My Lord, I will go to play soccer with my friends to use this energy to prevent myself from disobeying you and to get back home tired.” With this intention, whenever you run to catch the ball you will take reward. The intention alone can turn all your life into worship even if you are not in the mosque.
You work to earn money. Try to make the intention of your work to be making Muslims excel in their work, become successful in life and push Islam forward to be supreme. With such an intention, you receive reward for each moment of your work.
You study because your father told you so. Try to study with the intention of achieving success and distinction that may do something good for Islam. With such an intention, you receive reward every time you hold your pen.
Following this method, we can all worship Allah (SWT) by intention and change our habits into worship. Proper intention can change the habit to worship. Ibnul-Qayem said, “Each breath and each drop of sweat released in this life without being for the sake of Allah (SWT) will become a regret and remorse on the Day of Judgment.” Allah (SWT) has created us to remember Him for 24 hours everyday, not only during the five prayers.
Secondly, Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “I will create a vicegerent on earth.” or “Verily, I am going to place (mankind) generations after generations on earth.” (TMQ, 2:30). This Ayah means that we are created also to fix this universe. The first question you will be asked on the Day of Judgment, “What did you do in life? What did you add?”
The first thing you will be asked about is the praying. This question is related to the worship. However, you will be asked about your belief before your worship. When asked, many youth would say, “I do not know, I just fasted.” No, this is a wrong answer.
Instead you should say that your existence in life was for two reasons:
1. To worship Allah (SWT) every moment in your life and feel the enjoyment on the personal level
2. To spread goodness around you and guide people to Allah (SWT).
The Prophet (SAWS) said in a Good Hadith, “Enjoin good and forbid evil otherwise Allah (SWT) will punish you then you pray to Him, but He will not respond to you.[4]”
If you asked a man, “Does your wife pray?” Do your children pray? He may say, “It is none of my business, the important thing is that they eat and drink.”
Be a vicegerent, but “… and argue with them in a way that is better,” (TMQ, 16:125), and be gentle when you guide people to Allah (SWT). Each one of us is a vicegerent in the place where Allah (SWT) has placed him. Do not say, “Am I the one who will fix the whole universe?” Not necessarily, but you can fix your area, your neighbor, your sister.
Sheikh al-Sha’rawy (the great Egyptian scholar) said, “Man has forsaken the truth of his existence over the course of history and forgot that he is a vicegerent on earth.”
Now the population on earth is six billion. How many of them believe in Allah (SWT)? How many are disbelievers? How many do not believe in anything and are lost?
Every night ask yourself what are you going to say to Allah (SWT) on the Day of Judgment? Were you a vicegerent or not?
Ibrahim Ibn-Adham, who was one of the great good successors, did not begin his life being obedient but he was playing with horses. He had no aim but riding his horse and go hunting, like many youth nowadays. He was very rich. Once, while he was on his horse, an old man came and held the bridle of his horse and said to him a few words that turned his life upside down. Concentrate and try to hear them with your mind and heart. “O Ibrahim, is this why you were created for or by this you were commanded?” Ibrahim said, “After I heard these words, I spent the night thinking is this why I was created for or by this was I commanded? Only then I knew my Lord and returned to Allah (SWT). It was my day of birth when I understood the meaning of the Ayah which can be translated as, “I will create a vicegerent on earth.”(TMQ, 2:30).
During the reign of Caliph Abu–Bakr As-Sidiq (RA), there was a horse race in a city in Palestine. Bilal (RA), one of the companions of the prophet (SAWS), was in this city at that time. During the race, Bilal (RA) was standing away when he saw a young man passing next to him. He was very busy by the race, and asked him, “Who won?” Bilal (RA) said, “The nearest to Allah (SWT).” The youth said, “I am asking you about the race (of the horses).” Bilal said, “And I am guiding you to the goodness.”
Ibn–Taymiyah (a successor) said, “The people of this life are pitiful, they left the life without knowing the best thing in life. Then he was asked, “What is the best thing in life?” He said, “Knowing Allah, fulfilling the commands of Allah (SWT), pleasing Allah, and guiding people to His way.”
Abdul-Qader al-Kilany (a successor) said, “Whenever I guide someone to Allah (SWT), my soul becomes satisfied and I feel that I do not need food or drink anymore.”
Let us continue the ayah where Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “They said, ‘Will You place therein those who will make mischief therein and shed blood,-While we glorify You we glorify You with praises and thanks and sanctify You.’" (TMQ, 2:30). The angels said that because they were afraid that they fell short in their duties to Allah (SWT), and that Allah (SWT) wanted to substitute or exchange them.
Is any obedient servant of Allah (SWT) afraid of being substituted or exchanged? You should be afraid that you may get lost after Allah (SWT) has guided you. Substitution occurs at the moment you feel pride because of your obedience. Whenever you think the Hijab (cover for hair for women), prayers in mosque or attending religious lecture and crying out of being emotionally affected, these are the epic of obedience. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And if you turn away (from Islam and the obedience to Allah), He will exchange you for some other people and they will not be your likes.” (TMQ, 47:38).
Abu-Bakr (RA) said, “Even if one of my feet is in the Jannah and the other one is out, I am firm, and obedient to You My Lord.”
How did the angels know that man is going to make mischief and shed blood? The earth, before Adam (AS), was ruled by Jinn who made great mischief. They shed blood, killed each other, and created havoc. As a result, Allah (SWT) sent down angels in order to dismiss Jinn from earth and confine them to sea islands. Since that time, the Jinn have been dwelling in the sea islands. This is how the angels knew before the creation what is going to happen.
There is another beautiful remark. Did you notice Allah's mercy when he let the angels converse with Him? Some parents bring up their children on the assumption that they know everything, while their children know nothing; and that children should do what their parents order them without even thinking. You should teach your children how to engage in discussions. We should learn from this Ayah the word “they said.” They did not say their opinion out of opposition. Some men, without citing reasons, order their wives not to leave the house in a very oppressive way. There is also a known Hadith which says, “Consult them, and then do the opposite.” This Hadith is weak. Imagine when your wife tells you her view point regarding something then you tell her, “You think so? I will do the opposite.” This is not a proper way; you should consult her.
Another remark regarding the following part of the Ayah which can be translated as, "…we glorify You with praises and thanks and sanctify You" (TMQ, 2: 30). In pertinence to this Ayah, the Prophet (SAWS) narrates that while on al-Mi'raj (the Prophet’s ascension to the seventh Heaven), he heard a voice in the sky coming from all directions, saying, "Glorified be Allah the Exalted, the Most High." After a short while he heard, "Glorified be Allah, the Incomparably Great." They were the angels glorifying Allah (SWT). You see? Allah (SWT) does not need us, so glorify Him. The Prophet (SAWS) says, "He who says, ‘Glorified be Allah, and all praise is due to Him,’ a hundred times in a day, all his sins are forgiven, even if they are as much as sea foam.”[5] Therefore, you should glorify Allah (SWT) as much as you can.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "I know that which you do not know" (TMQ, 2: 30). It is true that there will be human beings who will shed blood and kill each other; but, on the other hand, there will be true believers; prophets; messengers; martyrs and honest people. A young man, who remains submissive to Allah (SWT) amidst abundant sins and turmoil, is dearer to Allah (SWT) than an earth full of disbelievers and sinners. Allah (SWT) created the universe for you. Think before you disobey Him; for He knows everything, and you know nothing. You are the one meant by this Ayah. You see how dear you are to Allah (SWT)?
In the next Ayah, Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as "And He taught Adam all the names (of everything)" (TMQ, 2:31). This Ayah refers to the names of in-animate bodies, animals, plants, angels, and means of technology…etc, for example, the sea contains fish and the fishnet should be thrown in the sea in a certain way to catch fish. Then, you should rub two stones together to produce fire, so that you can grill fish and eat it. This seed is called ‘wheat.’ You can plant it in the soil until the rain falls and the seed grows to be a plant.
Adam (AS) was not just a pious man; he was also knowledgeable in the matters of the universe. Allah (SWT) taught him the names because He destined him to be a vicegerent on earth. Accordingly, he should be experienced in earthly matters. How could he be a vicegerent on earth if he was a failure?
Do you want to be a vicegerent on earth? You might say, “I pray regularly, I am even the Imam of the mosque, but I am not successful in my studies.” Subsequently, you are a failure. Even more, you are a sinner; since you did not fulfill the requirements of becoming a vicegerent. In order to undertake this responsibility, you should have two things, religion and knowledge.
Religion without knowledge amounts to failure. Knowledge without religion amounts to sin and disobedience. Religion and knowledge should go together. A housewife who prays and does her housework, but is concerned more with attending Qur'an lessons does not understand her role quite well. Her role as a vicegerent is to succeed at home first. It was not proper for Adam (AS) to inhabit the earth before learning. We want a successful Muslim. Omar Ibnul-Khattab (RA) says, "I am not cunning, but the cunning can not deceive me." We want a successful Muslim who studies not only to pass the exam but also to be useful to Islam. Do you see the value of education and knowledge in Islam? In spite of the first Ayah, "And He taught Adam all the names (of everything)" (TMQ, 2:31), 50% of our nation is illiterate, and our youths are not cultured. Allah (SWT) says in the Qur'an what can be translated as, "Allah will exalt in degree those of you who believe, and those who have been granted knowledge." (TMQ, 58:11). He who fails in his studies and does not want to succeed is a sinner. The Hadith says, "He who follows a path in which he seeks knowledge, Allah (SWT) facilitates for him a path to the Jannah."[6] Allah (SWT), His angels and the inhabitants of the heavens and the earth, even the ant in its burrow and the whale, bless those who teach people goodness.”[7] Do you see the value of knowledge?
In the next Ayah, Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "…then He showed them to the angels and said, 'Tell Me the names of these if you are truthful." (TMQ, 2: 31). The angels know only about religion; they have nothing to do with worldly affairs. "They (angels) said, 'Glory be to You, we have no knowledge except what you have taught us'" (TMQ, 2:32). Then Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “He said,’ O Adam! Inform them of their names.’” (TMQ, 2:33). Hence, Adam (AS) named this and that, he explained how this plant is irrigated this way; and how food is obtained that way. The angels were amazed, therefore Allah (SWT) told them what can be translated as, “Did I not tell you…” (TMQ, 2:33) (i.e. that there is a human being who is going to be a believer and at the same time experienced in worldly affairs?)
It is as if the world was created for the believers who master both worldly and religious affairs. You have to be keen on making your own imprint on life: religion; knowledge; reforming people and society. What have you added to life? Mustafa Sadeq ar-Raf'ie says, "If you do not add something to life, then you are redundant."
The angels rendered that their job is only Allah’s worship. Hence, Allah (SWT) calls on Adam (AS) (since he is a worshipper like all of you, but he has experience in worldly affairs and he knows good and evil) and ordered the angels to prostrate before him. Did you notice when the prostration occurred? It occurred after Adam (AS) had mastered both religion and worldly affairs. If you, as well, master both religion and worldly affairs, you deserve angels to prostrate before you, for you will be similar to Adam (AS) when the angels prostrated before him.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "We said to the angels, ' Prostrate yourselves before Adam.'" (TMQ, 2:34). Did all the angels prostrate before Adam (AS)? Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "So the angels prostrated themselves, all of them together." (TMQ, 15:30). It was an honoring ceremony for Adam (AS). Is it acceptable to prostrate before someone other than Allah (SWT)? No, they prostrated before Allah (SWT). Adam (AS) was only the Kiblah (prayer direction). They did not worship Adam (AS); this prostration was only for showing respect and submission to him. The angels are subjected to us if we master both religion and worldly affairs. You might wonder, “Could I be better than the angels?” Yes, and you are going to be even more privileged to Allah (SWT) since both the earth and the heaven might not know Allah's stature, but the believer is the best one to know His stature. You see how much has Allah (SWT) honored humans? Why, then, do we degrade ourselves?
The following are the forms of honoring Adam (AS):
1. He was created from dust and water – the cleanest and purest elements.
2. Allah (SWT) formed him with His divine hands. "…What prevents you from prostrating yourself to one whom I have created with Both My Hands" ( TMQ, 38:75).
3. Allah (SWT) gave him a breath of His soul, "so, when I have fashioned him completely and breathed into him (Adam) the soul which I created for him…" (TMQ, 15:29).
4. All the angels prostrated to him.
5. Satan was kicked out of the Jannah because he refused to prostrate to Adam (AS).
6. Allah (SWT) subjected the angels to Adam (AS).
7. The universe was created to be utilized by Adam (AS).
8. Allah (SWT) taught Adam (AS) all the names.
Glorified be Allah (SWT).
Surat at-Tin is a wonderful Surah which makes you sense how Allah (SWT) honors you. "By the fig, and the olive. By Mount Sinai. By this city of security (Makkah). Verily, We created man in the best stature (mould).Then We reduced him to the lowest of the low." (TMQ, 95:1-5).
Here, Allah (SWT) swears by three things:
1. The figs and the olives.
2. Mount Sinai (where Allah (SWT) spoke to Moses).
3. The holy city (Makkah).
Figs and olives, here, are only symbolic to the place which is known by its figs and olives (Palestine). They are not meant for themselves. Do you see the oath? What is the relation between figs and olives (Palestine), Mount Sinai, “…take off your shoes; you are in the sacred valley, Tuwa" (TMQ, 20:12), the holy city (Makkah) and between creating Man in the best form? These places are the holiest spots on earth. Allah (SWT) is swearing by the holiest places on earth that He has created Man in the best form. There is the holiness of Makkah, the holiness of al-Tour Mountain, and the holiness of Palestine, then Allah (SWT) states that He has created us in the best honored form. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "Then We reduced him to the lowest of the low." (TMQ, 95:5). When man, who was created in the best form, commits sins, he is lowered to the worst rank, "Save those who believe (in Islamic Monotheism) and do righteous deeds. Then they shall have a reward without end (Paradise)." (TMQ, 95:6).
Let us look at these Ahadith in order to see how much you were honored by Allah (SWT). Allah (SWT) says in a Hadith Qudsi (sacred Hadith), “… and My slave keeps on coming closer to Me through performing nawafil (praying or doing extra deeds besides what is obligatory) till I love him, so I become his sense of hearing with which he hears, and his sense of sight with which he sees, and his hand with which he grips, and his leg with which he walks; and if he asks Me, I will give him, and if he asks My protection (refuge), I will protect him; (i.e. give him My refuge)….”[8]
In another Hadith, the Prophet (SAWS) said, "If Allah loves a person, He calls Gabriel, saying, “Allah loves so and so, O Gabriel love him,” so Gabriel would love him and then would make an announcement in the heavens, “Allah has loved so and-so therefore you should love him also,” so all the dwellers of the heavens would love him, and then he is granted the pleasure of the people on the earth." [9]
Allah (SWT) says in another Hadith Qudsi that if a person, “ … comes one span nearer to Me, I go one cubit nearer to him; and if he comes one cubit nearer to Me, I go a distance of two outstretched arms nearer to him; and if he comes to Me walking, I go to him running.” [10] Allah (SWT) loves us so much and waits for the day when we get closer to Him, and know our aim in life. Allah (SWT) ordered the angels to prostrate to Adam (AS) because man is precious and dear to Him. Do not devaluate your stature by committing sins and forgetting about the purpose of your existence in life.
A final comment:
Consider the scope of Allah’s honor. It is a bountiful bestowing of honor, don’t you think? Compare this to Darwin’s theory which states that man started as a germ on the surface of the water. This germ then evolved into a microorganism, which in turn evolved into a frog, then to a fish, then to a monkey, and finally into a human being.
As a human soul, which do you prefer: the monkey or Adam (AS)? Why did not all animals and monkeys evolve into human beings? Look at Allah's words that can be translated as, "And indeed We have honored the Children of Adam, and We have carried them on land and sea, and have provided them with at-Tayyibat (lawful good things), and have preferred them above many of those whom We have created with a marked preferment" (TMQ, 17:70).
[1] TMQ=Translation of the Meaning of the Qur'an. This translation is for the realized meaning, so far, of the stated (Surah :Ayah) of the Qur'an. Reading the translated meaning of the Qur'an can never replace reading it in Arabic, the language in which it was revealed.
[2] Sala-llahu Alahi Wa Salam = All Prayers and Peace of Allah be upon him.
[3] Narrated by Ibn-Omar, Sunnan at-Tirmidhi, No .2677.
[4] Narrated Hudhaifa, Sunnan at-Tirmidhi, No .2259.
4 Authentic Hadith, Narrated Abu Huraira Sahih Bukhari, No. 6042.
[6] Authentic Hadith, narrated by Abu Huraira, Sahih Muslim, no. 2699
6 Authentic, Strange and Good Hadith, narrated by Abu Umamah, Sunnan At-Tirmidhi, no. 2826.
[8] Authentic Hadith narrated by Abu Huraira, Sahih Al-Bukhari, No. 6137
[9] Authentic Hadith narrated by Abu Huraira, Sahih Muslim, No .2637
[10] Authentic Hadith narrated by Abu Huraira, Sahih Muslim, No. 2675
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The Creation of Adam - Part 1
Today’s lesson is entitled “The Creation of Adam (AS)”, however it seems that I will be talking about something else, namely, the submission, humility, surrender, and capitulation between the Hands of Allah (Exalted and Glorious). But, what is the relationship between these topics?
The prominent concept that comes into my mind whenever I talk about Adam’s creation (PBUH) is the submission to Allah (SWT). Hence, your heart must essentially feel—when you listen to the process of the creation of Adam (our father)(PBUH)—how weak and needy you are between the Hands of Allah (SWT), and that you have no other God but Him (SWT). So, let us start with how Adam (PBUH) was created.
You read in the Qur’an—in different Ayat (verses)—that Adam (PBUH) was created from “dust”, “clay”, “sticky clay”, “dried clay”, “dried clay of altered mud”, or “sounding clay like the clay of pottery”, then what is the conclusion, and from which material was Adam (PBUH) created? Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Verily, the likeness of ‘Isa (Jesus) before Allah is the likeness of Adam. He created him from dust, then (He) said to him: “Be!” - and he was.” (TMQ, Al Imran: 59) (1).
But look at another Ayah, “(Remember) when your Lord said to the angels: 'Truly I am going to create man from clay'.” (Surat Saad: 71), then He added in another Ayah, “Verily, We created them of a sticky clay.” (TMQ, As Saffat: 11).
What does all this mean? Was he created from dust or clay? Allah (Exalted and Glorious) also says what can be translated as, “And indeed, We created man from dried (sounding) clay of altered mud.” (Surat Al Hijr: 26), then He said in another Ayah what can be translated as, “He created man (Adam) from sounding clay like the clay of pottery.” (TMQ, Ar-Rahman: 14).
Actually, Adam (PBUH) was created from all these materials through the various stages of the process of his creation. Each stage led to the next one, until his creation was completed. So now, let us start step by step to point out why Allah (SWT) made him undergo all these stages. Adam (PBUH) passed through six stages in the course of his creation, so let us benefit from this presentation, for Allah (SWT) coveys a message to us, and teaches us a lesson in each stage.
* The First Stage: Dust
The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Allah created Adam from a handful of dust taken from different lands, so the children of Adam have been created according to the composition of the land. Therefore, from mankind we have white, red, black and yellow ones; we have good and evil, ease and sorrow, and what comes in between them.” (Sahih Bukhari and At-Tirmidhi), and in another narration, he (PBUH) said “Allah the Almighty sent Gabriel onto the earth to get Him a handful of dust taken from different lands. Therefore, the children of Adam have been created according to the composition of the land.” What does this mean? The characteristics of people are different because they were created from various heaps of dust taken from all over the world; so there are red, white, and black people, and there are easy and hard-hearted, evil and good persons. This Hadith shows us that our beginning was from a heap of dust, taken from different parts of the earth. That is the reason men have different colors. People have different colors—red, black, white, yellow—like the different colors of dust, and different natures, too. A good person, who comes close to Allah (SWT), once he hears the message, is like good fertile ground. An evil person who insists on wickedness and returns to it, even if you preach to him and help him several times, is like evil land. A hardhearted person who can never feel tenderness is like hard land that is full of thorns, and a kind person whom you love easily is like smooth land.
So, we want to look back at our origin, and realize that we were nothing. We were made of dust, so Glory be to Allah who made the dust speak, think, sail on the water, go up to the sky, and explore space. Glory be to Allah who turned the dust into human beings who move on the earth.
The concept I want to emphasize is how can you--Son of Adam--disobey Allah (SWT)? How can the dust say ‘No’ to the orders of Allah? How can you commit adultery, drink wine, or refuse to pray the prayers at their prescribed times, which is the most desirable work to Allah (SWT)? How can this heap of dust, which is turned into a human being, refuse to follow the orders of Allah (SWT)? Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Be cursed (the disbelieving) man! How ungrateful he is! From what thing did He create him? From Nutfah (male and female fluids) He created him and then set him in due proportion. Then He makes the Path easy for him. Then He causes him to die and puts him in his grave. Then when it is His Will, He will resurrect him (again).” (TMQ, ‘Abasa: 17-22). Don't you feel how weak and needy you are? Actually, the aim of this lesson is to learn submission, as if I am teaching you a lesson about the value of submission to Allah (SWT); not about the stories of the prophets. This is the understanding I want you to get from it.
My brothers, we were first created from dust. Listen to the Divine Hadith (Hadith Qudsi). Allah (SWT) said, “The one who humbles himself to Me like this (and the Prophet (PBUH) lowered the palm of his hand till it reached the floor), I would elevate him as far as this (and the prophet (PBUH) kept raising his hand so high towards the sky)”.
This was about our creation from dust. How needy and weak we are! Adam (PBUH) was called ‘Adam’ because he was created from the ‘Adeem’ (the dust) of the earth. This is to make us always related to the dust, and to remember that we are from dust whenever Allah (SWT) says, “O’ sons of Adam”. We are the descendents of Adam, who is from dust. This is the first stage of our creation.
Now, do you still insist on your disobedience to the orders of Allah (SWT), even after you knew that you are from dust, and that you are made to speak by the orders of Allah (SWT)?
* The Second Stage: the Clay
The dust was soaked with water, so it became clay. (See how very poor we are!). This is the meaning of what Allah (SWT) says to the Angels and can be translated as, “(Remember) when your Lord said to the angels: “Truly I am going to create man from clay”. (TMQ, Saad: 71). Why did Allah (SWT) choose these two elements (dust and water) to start Adam’s creation (PBUH)? Why did He not choose iron, for example? This is not only to humble ourselves before Allah (SWT), but it has another beautiful meaning.
The main function of dust and water is purification, cleanliness, and bathing. There is no purification without water. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The earth has been made for me a place for praying and a thing to perform Tayammum (dry ablution with dust, when water is not available).” As if Allah (SWT) wants to say to us that our origin is pure and clean, since we are created of the purest elements on the earth. So, be aware of contaminating this purity. For those people who watch forbidden and disgraceful satellite channels, or those who visit immoral sites on the internet, why do you pollute this purity inside you? By doing this, a person imagines that all women and men are wicked, and that the origin of mankind is filth. This is absolutely wrong. We are created from dust and water to realize that we are pure and clean.
Compare these meanings with the meanings of the Western civilization, which perceives Man as a ‘bad insect’. There is an international Western scholar who said, “Man is a malignant insect, which lives among the garbage of life.” Can you imagine that he said such a thing, although he is an international scholar? We must not defile the purity from which we were made.
The one who used to commit adultery contaminates the most virtuous thing in himself. The one who abuses drugs defiles the purest soul inside him. Just like a person who throws junk in the water and pollutes it, would you drink it? Man is the one who defiles himself, and pollutes the dust and the water from which he was created, so he makes people hate to deal with him and with the pure things he was created from. I hope that this meaning can convey my message to you.
I hope that everyone can realize the seriousness of becoming used to committing adultery and other similar sins. The girl who boldly allows a man to enjoy her body—even with a kiss—defiles the purity from which she was created. Take care of your origins; for your origins are composed of the most pure elements.
The dust was soaked with water, and then turned into clay.
* The Third Stage: Sticky Clay
The clay started to be more compact, until it became sticky, adhesive, and thick. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Verily, We created them of sticky clay.” (TMQ, As-Saffat: 11). What is the meaning of “sticky”? It means that it is an adhesive mixture of clay that is easy to be shaped. What is the value of this stage? It is to show the meaning that you have strength and cohesion in your creation. Sometimes, one may feel that he is alone, lost, and has no aim in life. You are created from “sticky clay”, so do not scatter yourself. The meaning of stickiness is united. When a person is far from Allah (SWT), he becomes lost and scattered. Without Allah, your heart becomes scattered, dispersed, and alone. You must get exhausted, because the entire universe goes in the direction of Allah (SWT), while you go in the opposite direction. The “sticky clay” basically means that you have cohesion and unity. Some people, who are away from Allah (SWT), feel that they are nothing, and that they have no existence as if they are mere air, while you are created from a mixture of sticky clay; you are not scattered. The clay clung together and became easy to be shaped.
* The Forth Stage: molding and shaping
At this stage, Adam (PBUH) is now sticky clay, which is easy to be shaped. Then Allah (SWT) molded him with His Hands. There is no God, but Allah (SWT). Do you feel submission and humility to Allah (SWT)? Adam (PBUH) was molded by the Hands of Allah (SWT)! Then a question might be raised; what is the evidence for this? It is in what Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “(Allah) said: “O Iblis (Satan)! What prevents you from prostrating yourself to one whom I have created with Both My Hands? Are you too proud (to fall prostrate to Adam) or are you one of the high exalted?”“ (TMQ, Saad: 75). Adam (PBUH) was created by the Hands of Allah (SWT). Do not ask how, and do not try to find either a resemblance or an embodiment of this action, but rather say, “There is nothing like Him.” The meaning itself that our father Adam (PBUH) was created by the Hands of Allah (SWT) is enough. Are you going to submit to Allah (SWT) or not?
The creatures, which are created with the noble Hands of Allah (SWT), must remain pure. Say to yourself what you would not say to Allah (SWT), who created our father with His Hands, “I am free, I will not wear a scarf, I will not pray, or I will not be kind to my parents since I am not convinced about this!”. Do you feel Allah’s (SWT) affection for you? This is the meaning; the one who creates something with his hands makes it as evidence of his love for this thing. Perceive your value to Allah (SWT); for we are dear to Allah (SWT). So how can we dare disobey Allah (SWT) after all this?
Listen to the Hadith Qudsi. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “O’ son of Adam, I created you with My Hands, and brought you up with My blessings, while you defy Me and disobey Me. If you repent afterwards, I will accept you. So where you can find a God like Me, the Most Merciful, the Most Forgiving.” Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And whatever of blessings and good things you have, it is from Allâh” (TMQ, An-Nahl: 53). We are created by the Hands of Allah (SWT).
* The Fifth Stage: Drying the pottery clay
After these stages of creation (the dust was soaked with water and became clay, then the clay was compounded and became cohesive clay ready to be shaped, then Allah (SWT) molded it with His Hands, so it became a potter’s clay), the potter’s clay was left to dry, so its color was changed because of the influence of the winds. Look at our origin, how weak it was! How dare we to disobey Allah (SWT)? When the clay was wet, then it was exposed to the winds, its color changed and became like “dried clay of altered mud”. What is “dried clay of altered mud”? It is a kind of clay, the color of which changed to a lighter shade of black as a result of leaving it for some time to dry. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And indeed, We created man from dried (sounding) clay of altered mud.” (TMQ, Al Hijr: 26). This emphasizes our weakness before Allah (SWT).
* The Sixth Stage: Sounding Clay
When the clay dried, it became hollow; it had an internal cavity (the cavity of the mouth). Therefore, it became like the clay of pottery, which is hollow, dry clay that makes a sound when it is tapped. Thus, Adam (PBUH) was a figure of dry clay with an internal cavity for the soul to enter through it. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “He created man (Adam) from sounding clay like the clay of pottery” (TMQ, Ar-Rahman: 14). Did I not tell you that today’s lesson is called humility, resignation, and submission to Allah (SWT)?
Iblis (Satan) started to turn this body around and to hit it; then he found that it made a sound. Hence, there is no contradiction between the Ayat, for there are six stages of Adam’s (PBUH) creation: dust, clay, sticky clay, clay in the shape of a human being, dried clay of altered mud, and then sounding clay like the clay of pottery. By that time, Adam (PBUH) was a huge figure. He was left like that, while the soul had not yet been breathed into him. Why did Adam’s (PBUH) creation pass through all these stages? Was Allah (SWT) not able to say to it, ““Be!” - and it is.” (TMQ, Al Baqara: 117)? I think that the answer is easy. It is to realize how weak you are and how powerful Allah (SWT) is, to know your need for Him, and to feel that you are nothing without Him.
Did you see the miracle, which made the dust move [or come alive]? Allah (SWT) is able to do anything.
This leads us to the next stage; for Adam (PBUH), by that time, was a huge figure made of hollow clay, while the soul had not been breathed into him yet. How long did he remain a body without a soul? People said a period of time. Some Hadith narrated by Al-Tabarany on the authority of Ibn 'Abbas inform us that he remained like this for 40 days. Why did he remain like this? To emphasize your weakness.
The Prophet (PBUH) said (Hadith narrated by Imam Muslim), “When Allah molded Adam, He left him in Paradise for sometime. Our original home is Paradise, since our father was created there. We have nothing to do with this world.” When I ask you about your homeland, you tell me it is Al-Mansoura, but I tell you that your homeland is your father’s homeland. The original homeland of your father is Paradise. You are a stranger in this world, and you came to this world for a prescribed mission, which is to prove that you are a servant of Allah, and you yearn to return to your original homeland. Adam was created in Paradise, although the dust he was created from was from the earth. The first things he saw were the blessings and the fruits of Paradise. I wonder that there are some people who never ask Allah to grant them Paradise throughout their lifetimes. I wonder about young boys and girls in this world who do not put Paradise as their most important goal in life. “When Allah (SWT) shaped Adam (PBUH) in Paradise, He left him there for sometime, then He made Iblis go around him and examine him. When Iblis saw that Adam (PBUH) was hollow, he realized that he cannot resist temptation, and that he can deceive him.” (Hadith narrated by Muslim)
I present this Hadith to you because Satan tries to examine every one of us. He looked at Adam (PBUH) examined him, and thought about how to enter his body when he was hollow, until he realized that his point of weakness is that he cannot control himself in the face of temptation. Satan examines every one of us, and he makes you love your point of weakness. He can make you blind to your point of weakness for twenty years, so you may repeat the same mistake for twenty years without noticing this, because he has examined you and knows your weakest point. This point of weakness has only one solution mentioned in the Qur’an. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Certainly, you shall have no authority over My slaves…” (TMQ, Al Hijr: 42). Satan turns around you (as he did with your father [Adam]) trying to determine your point of weakness, for he actually knows the weakest point in every one of us. For example, someone may have his point of weakness in his friends, who deceive him, or in some one who introduces him to forbidden things. The only solution is to seek refuge and help from Allah (SWT), to come close to Allah (SWT), and to ask Him to save you from the deeds of Satan.
Adam (PBUH) remained in this stage for long period of time (40 years or 40 days). This is what is meant by what Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Has there not been over man a period of time, when he was not a thing worth mentioning?” (TMQ, Al-Insân: 1). Allah (SWT) directs a question to us, have we ever been something worthless, or was it Man who originated the universe? The answer to the first part is, Yes, Allah, we have been worthless for a period of time.
As I told you, Adam (PBUH) was a huge figure made of hollow clay, and was left in Paradise. Now, a great thing will happen. I would like you to try to imagine this while I am telling it to you. It is the greatest thing Allah (SWT) did; it is breathing the soul into Adam’s body (PBUH). Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “So when I have fashioned him and breathed into him (his) soul created by Me, then you fall down prostrate to him.” (TMQ, Saad: 72).
My brothers and sisters, do we notice this breath inside us? You have a Heavenly breath inside you. You were created from two pure elements; dust and water, then Allah (SWT) did not only mold you with His own Hands; but He also breathed His soul into you. In this Ayah, there are three manifestations of honor for Man. The first one is “fashioned him”, which means that Allah (SWT) formed Adam (PBUH) in the most noble shape. The second is that Allah (SWT) breathed His soul into Adam (PBUH), and the third one is that all the angels prostrated to him. Do you want a better evaluation than this? Do you believe that Allah (SWT) likes this creature? Do you still not believe that you are noble and dear to Allah (SWT)? How can He be generous to you to this great extent, while you still do not want to love Him and do not yearn for Him? How can you defile this pure breath inside you? It is a breath from Allah (SWT). Of course, it is a formless breath, and we know nothing about it, and we do not ask about it, but we, rather, leave its knowledge to Allah (SWT). It is a Divine breath from Allah (SWT). You have purity inside you, but can you imagine its value when you contaminate it? How dare you hurt this pure breath by taking drugs or smoking cigarettes? How can some youth dare to insult each other, how can you eat bad or forbidden things, how can you earn money by unlawful means? How did you not respect this great breath?
You are noble and dear to Allah (SWT). I will tell you some Hadith Qudsi, in which Allah (SWT) shows His affection for you, and His desire that you should be close to Him. I will narrate to you some of them to stir you.
Allah (SWT) said in Hadith Qudsi, “I, mankind, and Jinn are in an odd situation; I create, and they worship others. I give and they thank others. My blessings go down to them and their evils come up to Me. I kindly offer them My mercy despite that I am in no need of them. They are fighting Me with sins while they are in pitiable need of Me. Those who are praising Me, are My servants. So, whoever wants to be one of My servants just celebrate My praises. Those who obey Me, are those whom I love. And those who disobey Me, I never exclude them from My Mercy. If they repent, I grant them My love, and if they refuse to repent, I will cure their hearts by afflictions until they are purified from defects. The good deed in My accounts equals ten and more, and the evil deed in My account equals one and I forgive. I swear with My Glory and Honor, if they ask for forgiveness I'll forgive them. Whoever repents and comes to Me, I will receive him though he is far away. And whoever turns back, I will call him closely telling him, ‘O’ My slave where are you going? Do you have any other God?’”
Allah (SWT) inspired Dawud (David), “O’ Dawud, if the reluctant persons would know My yearning for their return, My desire for their repentance, and my wish for forgiving them; they would ache for Me. O’ Dawud, [if] this is my desire for the reluctant persons, then what about My affection for the willing ones?” Look to His affection for us, his generosity, and his longing for us!
1) TMQ=Translation of the Meaning of the Qur'an. This translation is for the realized meaning, so far, of the stated (Surah:Ayah) of the Qur'an. Reading the translated meaning of the Qur'an can never replace reading it in Arabic, the language in which it was revealed.
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The prominent concept that comes into my mind whenever I talk about Adam’s creation (PBUH) is the submission to Allah (SWT). Hence, your heart must essentially feel—when you listen to the process of the creation of Adam (our father)(PBUH)—how weak and needy you are between the Hands of Allah (SWT), and that you have no other God but Him (SWT). So, let us start with how Adam (PBUH) was created.
You read in the Qur’an—in different Ayat (verses)—that Adam (PBUH) was created from “dust”, “clay”, “sticky clay”, “dried clay”, “dried clay of altered mud”, or “sounding clay like the clay of pottery”, then what is the conclusion, and from which material was Adam (PBUH) created? Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Verily, the likeness of ‘Isa (Jesus) before Allah is the likeness of Adam. He created him from dust, then (He) said to him: “Be!” - and he was.” (TMQ, Al Imran: 59) (1).
But look at another Ayah, “(Remember) when your Lord said to the angels: 'Truly I am going to create man from clay'.” (Surat Saad: 71), then He added in another Ayah, “Verily, We created them of a sticky clay.” (TMQ, As Saffat: 11).
What does all this mean? Was he created from dust or clay? Allah (Exalted and Glorious) also says what can be translated as, “And indeed, We created man from dried (sounding) clay of altered mud.” (Surat Al Hijr: 26), then He said in another Ayah what can be translated as, “He created man (Adam) from sounding clay like the clay of pottery.” (TMQ, Ar-Rahman: 14).
Actually, Adam (PBUH) was created from all these materials through the various stages of the process of his creation. Each stage led to the next one, until his creation was completed. So now, let us start step by step to point out why Allah (SWT) made him undergo all these stages. Adam (PBUH) passed through six stages in the course of his creation, so let us benefit from this presentation, for Allah (SWT) coveys a message to us, and teaches us a lesson in each stage.
* The First Stage: Dust
The Prophet (PBUH) said, “Allah created Adam from a handful of dust taken from different lands, so the children of Adam have been created according to the composition of the land. Therefore, from mankind we have white, red, black and yellow ones; we have good and evil, ease and sorrow, and what comes in between them.” (Sahih Bukhari and At-Tirmidhi), and in another narration, he (PBUH) said “Allah the Almighty sent Gabriel onto the earth to get Him a handful of dust taken from different lands. Therefore, the children of Adam have been created according to the composition of the land.” What does this mean? The characteristics of people are different because they were created from various heaps of dust taken from all over the world; so there are red, white, and black people, and there are easy and hard-hearted, evil and good persons. This Hadith shows us that our beginning was from a heap of dust, taken from different parts of the earth. That is the reason men have different colors. People have different colors—red, black, white, yellow—like the different colors of dust, and different natures, too. A good person, who comes close to Allah (SWT), once he hears the message, is like good fertile ground. An evil person who insists on wickedness and returns to it, even if you preach to him and help him several times, is like evil land. A hardhearted person who can never feel tenderness is like hard land that is full of thorns, and a kind person whom you love easily is like smooth land.
So, we want to look back at our origin, and realize that we were nothing. We were made of dust, so Glory be to Allah who made the dust speak, think, sail on the water, go up to the sky, and explore space. Glory be to Allah who turned the dust into human beings who move on the earth.
The concept I want to emphasize is how can you--Son of Adam--disobey Allah (SWT)? How can the dust say ‘No’ to the orders of Allah? How can you commit adultery, drink wine, or refuse to pray the prayers at their prescribed times, which is the most desirable work to Allah (SWT)? How can this heap of dust, which is turned into a human being, refuse to follow the orders of Allah (SWT)? Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Be cursed (the disbelieving) man! How ungrateful he is! From what thing did He create him? From Nutfah (male and female fluids) He created him and then set him in due proportion. Then He makes the Path easy for him. Then He causes him to die and puts him in his grave. Then when it is His Will, He will resurrect him (again).” (TMQ, ‘Abasa: 17-22). Don't you feel how weak and needy you are? Actually, the aim of this lesson is to learn submission, as if I am teaching you a lesson about the value of submission to Allah (SWT); not about the stories of the prophets. This is the understanding I want you to get from it.
My brothers, we were first created from dust. Listen to the Divine Hadith (Hadith Qudsi). Allah (SWT) said, “The one who humbles himself to Me like this (and the Prophet (PBUH) lowered the palm of his hand till it reached the floor), I would elevate him as far as this (and the prophet (PBUH) kept raising his hand so high towards the sky)”.
This was about our creation from dust. How needy and weak we are! Adam (PBUH) was called ‘Adam’ because he was created from the ‘Adeem’ (the dust) of the earth. This is to make us always related to the dust, and to remember that we are from dust whenever Allah (SWT) says, “O’ sons of Adam”. We are the descendents of Adam, who is from dust. This is the first stage of our creation.
Now, do you still insist on your disobedience to the orders of Allah (SWT), even after you knew that you are from dust, and that you are made to speak by the orders of Allah (SWT)?
* The Second Stage: the Clay
The dust was soaked with water, so it became clay. (See how very poor we are!). This is the meaning of what Allah (SWT) says to the Angels and can be translated as, “(Remember) when your Lord said to the angels: “Truly I am going to create man from clay”. (TMQ, Saad: 71). Why did Allah (SWT) choose these two elements (dust and water) to start Adam’s creation (PBUH)? Why did He not choose iron, for example? This is not only to humble ourselves before Allah (SWT), but it has another beautiful meaning.
The main function of dust and water is purification, cleanliness, and bathing. There is no purification without water. The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The earth has been made for me a place for praying and a thing to perform Tayammum (dry ablution with dust, when water is not available).” As if Allah (SWT) wants to say to us that our origin is pure and clean, since we are created of the purest elements on the earth. So, be aware of contaminating this purity. For those people who watch forbidden and disgraceful satellite channels, or those who visit immoral sites on the internet, why do you pollute this purity inside you? By doing this, a person imagines that all women and men are wicked, and that the origin of mankind is filth. This is absolutely wrong. We are created from dust and water to realize that we are pure and clean.
Compare these meanings with the meanings of the Western civilization, which perceives Man as a ‘bad insect’. There is an international Western scholar who said, “Man is a malignant insect, which lives among the garbage of life.” Can you imagine that he said such a thing, although he is an international scholar? We must not defile the purity from which we were made.
The one who used to commit adultery contaminates the most virtuous thing in himself. The one who abuses drugs defiles the purest soul inside him. Just like a person who throws junk in the water and pollutes it, would you drink it? Man is the one who defiles himself, and pollutes the dust and the water from which he was created, so he makes people hate to deal with him and with the pure things he was created from. I hope that this meaning can convey my message to you.
I hope that everyone can realize the seriousness of becoming used to committing adultery and other similar sins. The girl who boldly allows a man to enjoy her body—even with a kiss—defiles the purity from which she was created. Take care of your origins; for your origins are composed of the most pure elements.
The dust was soaked with water, and then turned into clay.
* The Third Stage: Sticky Clay
The clay started to be more compact, until it became sticky, adhesive, and thick. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Verily, We created them of sticky clay.” (TMQ, As-Saffat: 11). What is the meaning of “sticky”? It means that it is an adhesive mixture of clay that is easy to be shaped. What is the value of this stage? It is to show the meaning that you have strength and cohesion in your creation. Sometimes, one may feel that he is alone, lost, and has no aim in life. You are created from “sticky clay”, so do not scatter yourself. The meaning of stickiness is united. When a person is far from Allah (SWT), he becomes lost and scattered. Without Allah, your heart becomes scattered, dispersed, and alone. You must get exhausted, because the entire universe goes in the direction of Allah (SWT), while you go in the opposite direction. The “sticky clay” basically means that you have cohesion and unity. Some people, who are away from Allah (SWT), feel that they are nothing, and that they have no existence as if they are mere air, while you are created from a mixture of sticky clay; you are not scattered. The clay clung together and became easy to be shaped.
* The Forth Stage: molding and shaping
At this stage, Adam (PBUH) is now sticky clay, which is easy to be shaped. Then Allah (SWT) molded him with His Hands. There is no God, but Allah (SWT). Do you feel submission and humility to Allah (SWT)? Adam (PBUH) was molded by the Hands of Allah (SWT)! Then a question might be raised; what is the evidence for this? It is in what Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “(Allah) said: “O Iblis (Satan)! What prevents you from prostrating yourself to one whom I have created with Both My Hands? Are you too proud (to fall prostrate to Adam) or are you one of the high exalted?”“ (TMQ, Saad: 75). Adam (PBUH) was created by the Hands of Allah (SWT). Do not ask how, and do not try to find either a resemblance or an embodiment of this action, but rather say, “There is nothing like Him.” The meaning itself that our father Adam (PBUH) was created by the Hands of Allah (SWT) is enough. Are you going to submit to Allah (SWT) or not?
The creatures, which are created with the noble Hands of Allah (SWT), must remain pure. Say to yourself what you would not say to Allah (SWT), who created our father with His Hands, “I am free, I will not wear a scarf, I will not pray, or I will not be kind to my parents since I am not convinced about this!”. Do you feel Allah’s (SWT) affection for you? This is the meaning; the one who creates something with his hands makes it as evidence of his love for this thing. Perceive your value to Allah (SWT); for we are dear to Allah (SWT). So how can we dare disobey Allah (SWT) after all this?
Listen to the Hadith Qudsi. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “O’ son of Adam, I created you with My Hands, and brought you up with My blessings, while you defy Me and disobey Me. If you repent afterwards, I will accept you. So where you can find a God like Me, the Most Merciful, the Most Forgiving.” Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And whatever of blessings and good things you have, it is from Allâh” (TMQ, An-Nahl: 53). We are created by the Hands of Allah (SWT).
* The Fifth Stage: Drying the pottery clay
After these stages of creation (the dust was soaked with water and became clay, then the clay was compounded and became cohesive clay ready to be shaped, then Allah (SWT) molded it with His Hands, so it became a potter’s clay), the potter’s clay was left to dry, so its color was changed because of the influence of the winds. Look at our origin, how weak it was! How dare we to disobey Allah (SWT)? When the clay was wet, then it was exposed to the winds, its color changed and became like “dried clay of altered mud”. What is “dried clay of altered mud”? It is a kind of clay, the color of which changed to a lighter shade of black as a result of leaving it for some time to dry. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And indeed, We created man from dried (sounding) clay of altered mud.” (TMQ, Al Hijr: 26). This emphasizes our weakness before Allah (SWT).
* The Sixth Stage: Sounding Clay
When the clay dried, it became hollow; it had an internal cavity (the cavity of the mouth). Therefore, it became like the clay of pottery, which is hollow, dry clay that makes a sound when it is tapped. Thus, Adam (PBUH) was a figure of dry clay with an internal cavity for the soul to enter through it. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “He created man (Adam) from sounding clay like the clay of pottery” (TMQ, Ar-Rahman: 14). Did I not tell you that today’s lesson is called humility, resignation, and submission to Allah (SWT)?
Iblis (Satan) started to turn this body around and to hit it; then he found that it made a sound. Hence, there is no contradiction between the Ayat, for there are six stages of Adam’s (PBUH) creation: dust, clay, sticky clay, clay in the shape of a human being, dried clay of altered mud, and then sounding clay like the clay of pottery. By that time, Adam (PBUH) was a huge figure. He was left like that, while the soul had not yet been breathed into him. Why did Adam’s (PBUH) creation pass through all these stages? Was Allah (SWT) not able to say to it, ““Be!” - and it is.” (TMQ, Al Baqara: 117)? I think that the answer is easy. It is to realize how weak you are and how powerful Allah (SWT) is, to know your need for Him, and to feel that you are nothing without Him.
Did you see the miracle, which made the dust move [or come alive]? Allah (SWT) is able to do anything.
This leads us to the next stage; for Adam (PBUH), by that time, was a huge figure made of hollow clay, while the soul had not been breathed into him yet. How long did he remain a body without a soul? People said a period of time. Some Hadith narrated by Al-Tabarany on the authority of Ibn 'Abbas inform us that he remained like this for 40 days. Why did he remain like this? To emphasize your weakness.
The Prophet (PBUH) said (Hadith narrated by Imam Muslim), “When Allah molded Adam, He left him in Paradise for sometime. Our original home is Paradise, since our father was created there. We have nothing to do with this world.” When I ask you about your homeland, you tell me it is Al-Mansoura, but I tell you that your homeland is your father’s homeland. The original homeland of your father is Paradise. You are a stranger in this world, and you came to this world for a prescribed mission, which is to prove that you are a servant of Allah, and you yearn to return to your original homeland. Adam was created in Paradise, although the dust he was created from was from the earth. The first things he saw were the blessings and the fruits of Paradise. I wonder that there are some people who never ask Allah to grant them Paradise throughout their lifetimes. I wonder about young boys and girls in this world who do not put Paradise as their most important goal in life. “When Allah (SWT) shaped Adam (PBUH) in Paradise, He left him there for sometime, then He made Iblis go around him and examine him. When Iblis saw that Adam (PBUH) was hollow, he realized that he cannot resist temptation, and that he can deceive him.” (Hadith narrated by Muslim)
I present this Hadith to you because Satan tries to examine every one of us. He looked at Adam (PBUH) examined him, and thought about how to enter his body when he was hollow, until he realized that his point of weakness is that he cannot control himself in the face of temptation. Satan examines every one of us, and he makes you love your point of weakness. He can make you blind to your point of weakness for twenty years, so you may repeat the same mistake for twenty years without noticing this, because he has examined you and knows your weakest point. This point of weakness has only one solution mentioned in the Qur’an. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Certainly, you shall have no authority over My slaves…” (TMQ, Al Hijr: 42). Satan turns around you (as he did with your father [Adam]) trying to determine your point of weakness, for he actually knows the weakest point in every one of us. For example, someone may have his point of weakness in his friends, who deceive him, or in some one who introduces him to forbidden things. The only solution is to seek refuge and help from Allah (SWT), to come close to Allah (SWT), and to ask Him to save you from the deeds of Satan.
Adam (PBUH) remained in this stage for long period of time (40 years or 40 days). This is what is meant by what Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Has there not been over man a period of time, when he was not a thing worth mentioning?” (TMQ, Al-Insân: 1). Allah (SWT) directs a question to us, have we ever been something worthless, or was it Man who originated the universe? The answer to the first part is, Yes, Allah, we have been worthless for a period of time.
As I told you, Adam (PBUH) was a huge figure made of hollow clay, and was left in Paradise. Now, a great thing will happen. I would like you to try to imagine this while I am telling it to you. It is the greatest thing Allah (SWT) did; it is breathing the soul into Adam’s body (PBUH). Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “So when I have fashioned him and breathed into him (his) soul created by Me, then you fall down prostrate to him.” (TMQ, Saad: 72).
My brothers and sisters, do we notice this breath inside us? You have a Heavenly breath inside you. You were created from two pure elements; dust and water, then Allah (SWT) did not only mold you with His own Hands; but He also breathed His soul into you. In this Ayah, there are three manifestations of honor for Man. The first one is “fashioned him”, which means that Allah (SWT) formed Adam (PBUH) in the most noble shape. The second is that Allah (SWT) breathed His soul into Adam (PBUH), and the third one is that all the angels prostrated to him. Do you want a better evaluation than this? Do you believe that Allah (SWT) likes this creature? Do you still not believe that you are noble and dear to Allah (SWT)? How can He be generous to you to this great extent, while you still do not want to love Him and do not yearn for Him? How can you defile this pure breath inside you? It is a breath from Allah (SWT). Of course, it is a formless breath, and we know nothing about it, and we do not ask about it, but we, rather, leave its knowledge to Allah (SWT). It is a Divine breath from Allah (SWT). You have purity inside you, but can you imagine its value when you contaminate it? How dare you hurt this pure breath by taking drugs or smoking cigarettes? How can some youth dare to insult each other, how can you eat bad or forbidden things, how can you earn money by unlawful means? How did you not respect this great breath?
You are noble and dear to Allah (SWT). I will tell you some Hadith Qudsi, in which Allah (SWT) shows His affection for you, and His desire that you should be close to Him. I will narrate to you some of them to stir you.
Allah (SWT) said in Hadith Qudsi, “I, mankind, and Jinn are in an odd situation; I create, and they worship others. I give and they thank others. My blessings go down to them and their evils come up to Me. I kindly offer them My mercy despite that I am in no need of them. They are fighting Me with sins while they are in pitiable need of Me. Those who are praising Me, are My servants. So, whoever wants to be one of My servants just celebrate My praises. Those who obey Me, are those whom I love. And those who disobey Me, I never exclude them from My Mercy. If they repent, I grant them My love, and if they refuse to repent, I will cure their hearts by afflictions until they are purified from defects. The good deed in My accounts equals ten and more, and the evil deed in My account equals one and I forgive. I swear with My Glory and Honor, if they ask for forgiveness I'll forgive them. Whoever repents and comes to Me, I will receive him though he is far away. And whoever turns back, I will call him closely telling him, ‘O’ My slave where are you going? Do you have any other God?’”
Allah (SWT) inspired Dawud (David), “O’ Dawud, if the reluctant persons would know My yearning for their return, My desire for their repentance, and my wish for forgiving them; they would ache for Me. O’ Dawud, [if] this is my desire for the reluctant persons, then what about My affection for the willing ones?” Look to His affection for us, his generosity, and his longing for us!
1) TMQ=Translation of the Meaning of the Qur'an. This translation is for the realized meaning, so far, of the stated (Surah:Ayah) of the Qur'an. Reading the translated meaning of the Qur'an can never replace reading it in Arabic, the language in which it was revealed.
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The Creation of Adam - Part 3
We stopped last time at the prostration of all the angels to Adam (AS) except Shaytan who refused to prostrate.
Before we start there are some questions:
* Is Shaytan a jinn or an angel?
"And (remember) when We said to the angels: ‘Prostrate yourselves before Adam.’ And they prostrated except Iblîs (Satan)". (TMQ, 2:34) (1).
It might be thought that Shaytan is an angel, but this is not true. The scholars have all agreed on that Shaytan is not an angel. After the creation of earth, the jinn inhabited it [entirely] until the angels drove them away to the islands and seas. Some of the jinn were evil, shedding blood and killing, while others obeyed Allah (SWT). Shaytan was one of those obedient jinn, hence, the angels took him to Heaven where he worshipped Allah (SWT) and he was completely devoted to Him; Shaytan left no place in Heaven where he did not prostrate to Allah (SWT). (Isra’iliyat) (2). However, deep inside him there was something impure, which Allah (SWT) knew well but kept it for a reason that only He knows.
Shaytan is not an angel and this can be proven in the Holy Qur’an, in Surat Al-Kahf (The Cave) through an undisputed verse, that can be translated as, “And (remember) when We said to the angels: "Prostrate yourselves unto Adam." So they prostrated themselves except Iblis (Satan). He was one of the jinn; he disobeyed the Command of his Lord.” (TMQ, 18:50).
* If Shaytan is a jinni, why was he ordered with the angels to prostrate?
Allah (SWT) ordered the angels and not the jinn, so why would Shaytan be punished for not prostrating? In fact, the order was directed to him. It is true that the order was given to the angels, but because he was in the company of the angels for a long time and he was living with them, Shaytan was also included [in this order].
When Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "What prevents you from prostrating yourself to one whom I have created with Both My Hands" (TMQ, 38:75). Shaytan did not reply "O Allah! You did not command me". He rather replied, "I am better than he." Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "What prevented you (O Iblis) that you did not prostrate yourself, when I commanded you?" (TMQ, 7:12), which proves that Allah (SWT) ordered him as well as He ordered the angels.
* Sometimes Allah (SWT) calls the devil "Iblis" and sometimes “Satan” (shaytan). Is he called Iblis or Satan? Or are the two names the same?
His real name is Iblis but the origin of the word "devil" (shaytan) in the Arabic language is (shaytan) that means “deviate or stray from”. Iblis deviated from Allah's (SWT) path; he strayed far from Allah's (SWT) commands, from obeying Him, from repentance and from Paradise (Jannah). This is why he is called "Shaytan". For that reason, the devil is called "Iblis" and is described as the devil "Shaytan". Hence, beware of devilish traits and of going astray from Allah's (SWT) commands, because this might lead you to carry the traits and characteristics of Shaytan.
* What is the difference between the word shayateen (devils, pl. of shaytan) and jinn?
Devils are the disobedient jinn: the disobedient, unbelieving, dissolute jinn are called shayateen. Therefore, every devil is a jinn but not every jinn is a devil.
* Why did Shaytan/Iblis refuse to prostrate to Adam (PBUH)?
His point of view is mentioned in the Holy Qur’an, in Surat Al-A'raf (chapter of "The Heights"), can be translated as, "What prevented you (O Iblis) that you did not prostrate yourself, when I commanded you?" Iblis said: "I am better than him (Adam), You created me from fire, and him You created from clay." (Allah) said: "(O Iblis) get down from this (Paradise), it is not for you to be arrogant here. Get out, for you are of those humiliated and disgraced." (TMQ, 7:12-13). The reason that Allah (SWT) has mentioned is Pride or Arrogance. In the chapter of Sad, Allah—be He Exalted and Glorified—says what can be translated as, "(Allah) said: "O Iblis! What prevents you from prostrating yourself to one whom I have created with Both My Hands. Are you too proud (to fall prostrate to Adam) or are you one of the high exalted?" (Iblis) said: "I am better than he. You created me from fire, and You created him from clay." (TMQ, 38:75-76). Therefore, whenever you feel that you are excessively proud of yourself, beware of this devilish trait. Arrogance was the first sin committed since Adam's (PBUH) creation; paradise is forbidden for the Arrogant. Allah (SWT) says to Shaytan, the first creature committing that sin, what can be translated as, "get down from this (Paradise), it is not for you to be arrogant here" (TMQ, 7:13). The Prophet (PBUH) says, "He who has in his heart the weight of a mustard seed of pride shall not enter Paradise.” (Muslim)
Following are the types of Arrogance. Try to discern if your heart carries any type of these or not.
The first type of Arrogance is being unjust with people; holding them in contempt, and oppressing them. I am afraid that a person might treat a servant at home this way; the leader or manager might do that with his employees; or the youth with people who are less fortunate or less intelligent. Showing contempt for people and belittling their social level represents a kind of arrogance.
The second type of Arrogance is strutting around [or showing off]. For example, when a woman walks in a way that shows off her beauty, and the one who wears a suit and feels that he is better than everybody. I do not mean we should not wear suits. The Prophet (PBUH) says, "Allah is beautiful and admires beauty" (Muslim). Hence, you can wear whatever you like but do not show off and think that people are lower than you. The Prophet (PBUH) says, "A man strutted around, wearing his long robe, and admiring himself a lot, and Allah caused the earth to sink with him, thus such the man is in torture until the Day of Judgment” (Bukhari, Muslim)
The third type of Arrogance is refusing to accept any advice and refusing to get back to the right path even if you know the way to it. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "And when it is said to him, "Fear Allah", he is led by arrogance to (more) crime. So enough for him is Hell, and worst indeed is that place to rest!" (TMQ, 2:206).
The fourth type of Arrogance is the love of having people humiliated and making them submit. Some husbands treat their wives this way and humiliate them. The Prophet (PBUH) says that such people have their places in Hell.
The fifth type of Arrogance is to stop praying. If one says, "I want to pray but I cannot", this is the major proof of his Pride. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "And your Lord said: "Invoke Me, I will respond to your (invocation). Verily! Those who scorn My worship they will surely enter Hell in humiliation!" (TMQ, 40:60). The person who demands nothing from Allah (SWT), and who stays one week without raising his hands asking Allah (SWT) to grant him what he needs is proud and arrogant.
Let’s go back to Shaytan’s excessive pride, which led him to think ignorantly. He says, addressing Allah (SWT), what can be translated as, "I am not one to prostrate myself to man, whom You did create from sounding clay, from mud molded into shape.” (TMQ, 15:33). His point of view is that fire is stronger and higher in status than clay, so how is it possible that the stronger and higher prostrates to the weaker and the lower? His pride rendered him blind in front of the truth. The nature of fire is burning, while the nature of clay is goodness, blessing and feeding people. The nature of fire is violence and recklessness, while the nature of clay is firmness and stability. Although the fire has some benefits, there is evil inherent within. As for clay; it cannot bear evil since it is full of benefits. Can you see how Allah (SWT) has been so generous in our creation? Sometimes we do exactly as Shaytan did with regard to this point and we misunderstand while making comparisons. For example, we leave boys and girls to mix freely as they want, because if we separate them they will be repressed and they will miss each other. Sometimes we follow the Shaytan and start thinking that we can leave the boys and girls to have free relations with each other so they won’t have any suppression later on. This is the way we think sometimes, right? Nevertheless, you have to avoid this devilish thinking and realize the consequences. Notice what happened in the West, where lust is everywhere and open to everyone, until people started heading into perversions. Limiting the relationships between boys and girls to marriage helps to maintain the pure instinct, which in turn keeps the human desire burning after marriage rather than destroying it before marriage and corrupting man.
Back to Shaytan when he says what can be translated as, "You have created me" (TMQ, 38:76). Here he admitted Allah’s (SWT) creation. In another verse he swears by Allah’s (SWT) glory "by Your glory" as he admits Allah's (SWT) glory and in a third verse that can be translated as, "Give me then respite till the Day they (the dead) will be resurrected" (TMQ, 7:14). Thus, Shaytan did not deny that Allah (SWT) is the Creator but his problem was being disobedient (Allah (SWT) is our God, but has no right to say “do that” and “don’t do that”). He considered that obeying Allah (SWT) and His creation of us are two different issues; that Allah (SWT) has created us but we wander about in the world as we like. This is not true. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "Surely, His is the Creation and Commandment…" (TMQ, 7:54). Thus He who creates, orders as well. Beware of falling into that mistake of separating between creation and obedience. Another verse clarifies what can be translated as, "It is not for a believer, man or woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decreed a matter that they should have any option in their decision". (TMQ, 33:36).
Islam is the name of our religion, which means submission to Allah (SWT) and to his orders. Being a Muslim means being submissive to Allah (SWT). Shaytan's problem is that he has not submitted to Allah (SWT), although he is fully aware of Allah’s (SWT) glory and that Allah (SWT) is the only Creator. Is any one suffering from such a problem? The problem is not in disobeying but the problem is in saying “No” to disobedience and rejecting sins.
Has Shaytan stopped at this extent? No, but he declared war on Adam (PBUH). Read Surat Al-Araf (chapter of “The Heights”) verses 11-13, and always remember that Shaytan is your enemy. “And surely, We created you (your father Adam) and then gave you shape (the noble shape of a human being); then We told the angels, "Prostrate yourselves to Adam", and they prostrated themselves, except Iblis (Satan), he refused to be of those who prostrated themselves. Allah) said: "What prevented you (O Iblis) that you did not prostrate yourself, when I commanded you?" Iblis said: "I am better than him (Adam), You created me from fire, and him You created from clay." (Allah) said: "(O Iblis) get down from this (Paradise), it is not for you to be arrogant here. Get out, for you are of those humiliated and disgraced." (TMQ, 7:11-13).
Also declare to Allah (SWT) that Shaytan is your archenemy. “Surely, Shaytan is an enemy to you, so take (treat) him as an enemy. He only invites his followers so that they may become the dwellers of the blazing Fire.” (TMQ, 35:6).
The Holy Qur’an displays Shaytan's point of view and gives him the chance to express it freely. But Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "(O Iblis) get down from this (Paradise), it is not for you to be arrogant here. Get out, for you are of those humiliated and disgraced." (TMQ, 7:13) The word “humiliated” (saghereen) in the verse is derived from the word “the smallest” (as-ghar) in Arabic, which is the opposite of “the biggest” (akbar) [the root form of the word “arrogant” (takkabar)]. The verse conveys that anyone who behaves arrogantly on earth is doomed to be humiliated and disgraced by Allah (SWT). Thus, if you become proud, you will be humiliated and belittled and will be crushed by people's feet on the Day of Judgment.
The verse following these verses, can be translated as, "Give me then respite till the Day they (the dead) will be resurrected” (TMQ, 7:14), shows that he will stay alive until the Day of Judgment. This means that his enmity and hatred is directed to every human being, not only Adam (PBUH). Can you realize how much he hates the human race? He prayed to Allah (SWT) to keep him alive until the Resurrection Day. Allah (SWT) agreed and responded to his request, "You are of those given respite." (TMQ, 7:15). One of the generation following the Companions of the Prophet (PBUH) said, “Don't be deceived with your vices or defects. Allah has responded to the prayers of the most evil creature (Shaytan), so wouldn't He respond to yours and accept them?"
In the next verse, Shaytan says, what can be translated as, "(Iblis) said: "Because You have sent me astray, surely I will sit in wait against them (human beings) on Your Straight Path" (TMQ, 7:16). Do you perceive Shaytan’s rudeness in addressing Allah (SWT) when saying that Allah (SWT) has sent him astray? Allah forbid!
Some people do that; they say, “ What can I do? Allah did this to me! If Allah had rightly guided me, I would have been on the right way; I wanted to be good, but Allah has put me with the company bad friends, and so I got lost!” Beware of that impudence with Allah (SWT).
Shaytan says to Allah (SWT) that he won't go to those who always go nightclubs, but I will lie in wait for anyone who walks in Your path and I will spoil it, taking him away from that path. Thus, Shaytan saves all his efforts for the believers and does not care much about the disobedient. The more the number of believers’ increases, the more he becomes tired. Ibn al-‘Abbas said that someone came to him and told him that the Jews had claimed that Shaytan did not whisper evil to them during their prayers. Why would Shaytan whisper evil to them when their prayer is mainly false?
Hence, the more you go along the right path, the more Shaytan lurks there waiting for you. Such is the battle between you and Shaytan, and when it gets fiercer with the depth and power of your belief, he will gather his soldiers against you. Will you give up, get weak and lose the battle?
In the next verse that can be translated as, "Then I will come to them from before them and behind them, from their right and from their left, and You will not find most of them as thankful ones." (TMQ, 7:17). Shaytan mentions four directions (right-left-back-front) while originally there are 6 directions. He did not mention the direction where the person prostrates to Allah while praying (down below), and the direction that is opened for the prayers and set as an outlet for Allah’s (SWT) mercy to people (from above).
One of the most serious methods of misguidance that Shaytan uses is making us discontent with Allah's (SWT) grace. Allah (SWT) has warned us from this in the Holy Qur’an by saying what can be translated as, “You will not find most of them as thankful ones", because when we feel thankful to Allah (SWT) we will continue worshipping and loving Him. Shaytan tries hard to make us forget Allah's (SWT) blessings. Beware of forgetting Allah's (SWT) blessings and graces. Allah (SWT) has sent the whole chapter of Quraysh in the Holy Qur’an to show the danger of forgetting Allah's (SWT) grace: “(It is a great Grace from Allah) for the protection of the Quraysh, (We cause) the (Quraysh) caravans to set forth safely in winter and in summer, So let them worship (Allah) the Lord of this House (the Ka’ba in Makkah), (He) Who has fed them against hunger, and has made them safe from fear." (TMQ, 106:1-4).
Allah (SWT) says in Surat An-Nisaa (chapter “The Women”) what can be translated as, "Allah cursed him. And he [Shaytan] said: "I will take an appointed portion of your slaves." (TMQ, 4:118). Do you see how Shaytan speaks about us? He wants us to be lost. “Verily, I will mislead them, and surely, I will arouse in them false desires” (TMQ, 4:119). He whispers evil to the youth, and beautifies sins before their eyes, like secret marriage, disobeying parents, ignoring studies, as well as luring girls to take off their Hijab on their wedding days. “…and certainly, I will order them to slit the ears of cattle, and indeed I will order them to change the nature created by Allah." (TMQ, 4:119), like the modern hairstyles and dyes, and guys wearing earrings. “And whoever takes Shaytan as a Wali (protector or helper) instead of Allah, has surely suffered a manifest loss. He (Shaytan) makes promises to them, and arouses in them false desires; and Shaytan’s promises are nothing but deceptions. The dwelling of such (people) is Hell, and they will find no way of escape from it.” (TMQ, 4:119-121).
Allah (SWT) says in Surat Al-Israa (the Night Journey) what can be translated as: "And (remember) when We said to the angels: "Prostrate yourselves unto Adam." They prostrated themselves except Iblis. He said: "Shall I prostrate myself to one whom You created from clay?" (Iblis) said: "See this one whom You have honored above me, if You give me respite (keep me alive) to the Day of Resurrection, I will surely seize and mislead his offspring (by sending them astray) all but a few!" (TMQ, 17:61-62). Can you sense Shaytan’s hatred and rudeness? The Arabic word used (ahtanekan) and translated into “seize”, came from the word (hanak) that means mouth or jaw. This means that he will put the bridle around your mouth, exactly like putting the bridle around the jaw of an animal. Has he succeeded in putting the bridle around your mouth? Have you taken the bridle off? Read the Holy Qur’an with all your heart, "(Allah) said, "Go, and whosoever of them follows you, surely Hell will be the recompense of you (all) - an ample recompense." (TMQ, 17:63). Any one who accepts your bridle deserves to go to hell with the devils.
"And befool them gradually, those whom you can among them, with your voice; make assaults on them with your cavalry and your infantry; share with them wealth and children, and make promises to them." But Satan promises them nothing but deceit." (TMQ, 17:64). This verse shows the battle between Shaytan and us: he starts calling and asking his cavalry, soldiers from mankind or from jinn. It is the same voice he uses when he whispers suggestions of sexual excitement or for seeking ill-gotten gains in your ears. This is besides his sharing in your money by wasting it in useless things. As for youth, he urges them marry corrupted people and bring up devilish children. This is why you have to choose your spouse carefully so that Shaytan gets no share in your children.
Has Shaytan succeeded in carrying out his threats?
1. TMQ=Translation of the Meaning of the Qur'an. This translation is for the realized meaning, so far, of the stated (Surah:Ayah) of the Qur'an. Reading the translated meaning of the Qur'an can never replace reading it in Arabic, the language in which it was revealed.
2. Editor’s note: Often, with the stories of the Biblical Prophets, the scholars have used Isra’iliyat—these are stories or explanations that came to us through Jews and Christians who accepted Islam. These stories are neither found in the Qur’an nor in the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) but may come from the Bible or oral traditions. The Isra’iliyat are only used to add detail to the prophets’ stories if they do not contradict the Qur’an or Sunnah; cited in this text by (Isra’iliyat) or (Isr.)
AmrKhaled.net
Before we start there are some questions:
* Is Shaytan a jinn or an angel?
"And (remember) when We said to the angels: ‘Prostrate yourselves before Adam.’ And they prostrated except Iblîs (Satan)". (TMQ, 2:34) (1).
It might be thought that Shaytan is an angel, but this is not true. The scholars have all agreed on that Shaytan is not an angel. After the creation of earth, the jinn inhabited it [entirely] until the angels drove them away to the islands and seas. Some of the jinn were evil, shedding blood and killing, while others obeyed Allah (SWT). Shaytan was one of those obedient jinn, hence, the angels took him to Heaven where he worshipped Allah (SWT) and he was completely devoted to Him; Shaytan left no place in Heaven where he did not prostrate to Allah (SWT). (Isra’iliyat) (2). However, deep inside him there was something impure, which Allah (SWT) knew well but kept it for a reason that only He knows.
Shaytan is not an angel and this can be proven in the Holy Qur’an, in Surat Al-Kahf (The Cave) through an undisputed verse, that can be translated as, “And (remember) when We said to the angels: "Prostrate yourselves unto Adam." So they prostrated themselves except Iblis (Satan). He was one of the jinn; he disobeyed the Command of his Lord.” (TMQ, 18:50).
* If Shaytan is a jinni, why was he ordered with the angels to prostrate?
Allah (SWT) ordered the angels and not the jinn, so why would Shaytan be punished for not prostrating? In fact, the order was directed to him. It is true that the order was given to the angels, but because he was in the company of the angels for a long time and he was living with them, Shaytan was also included [in this order].
When Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "What prevents you from prostrating yourself to one whom I have created with Both My Hands" (TMQ, 38:75). Shaytan did not reply "O Allah! You did not command me". He rather replied, "I am better than he." Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "What prevented you (O Iblis) that you did not prostrate yourself, when I commanded you?" (TMQ, 7:12), which proves that Allah (SWT) ordered him as well as He ordered the angels.
* Sometimes Allah (SWT) calls the devil "Iblis" and sometimes “Satan” (shaytan). Is he called Iblis or Satan? Or are the two names the same?
His real name is Iblis but the origin of the word "devil" (shaytan) in the Arabic language is (shaytan) that means “deviate or stray from”. Iblis deviated from Allah's (SWT) path; he strayed far from Allah's (SWT) commands, from obeying Him, from repentance and from Paradise (Jannah). This is why he is called "Shaytan". For that reason, the devil is called "Iblis" and is described as the devil "Shaytan". Hence, beware of devilish traits and of going astray from Allah's (SWT) commands, because this might lead you to carry the traits and characteristics of Shaytan.
* What is the difference between the word shayateen (devils, pl. of shaytan) and jinn?
Devils are the disobedient jinn: the disobedient, unbelieving, dissolute jinn are called shayateen. Therefore, every devil is a jinn but not every jinn is a devil.
* Why did Shaytan/Iblis refuse to prostrate to Adam (PBUH)?
His point of view is mentioned in the Holy Qur’an, in Surat Al-A'raf (chapter of "The Heights"), can be translated as, "What prevented you (O Iblis) that you did not prostrate yourself, when I commanded you?" Iblis said: "I am better than him (Adam), You created me from fire, and him You created from clay." (Allah) said: "(O Iblis) get down from this (Paradise), it is not for you to be arrogant here. Get out, for you are of those humiliated and disgraced." (TMQ, 7:12-13). The reason that Allah (SWT) has mentioned is Pride or Arrogance. In the chapter of Sad, Allah—be He Exalted and Glorified—says what can be translated as, "(Allah) said: "O Iblis! What prevents you from prostrating yourself to one whom I have created with Both My Hands. Are you too proud (to fall prostrate to Adam) or are you one of the high exalted?" (Iblis) said: "I am better than he. You created me from fire, and You created him from clay." (TMQ, 38:75-76). Therefore, whenever you feel that you are excessively proud of yourself, beware of this devilish trait. Arrogance was the first sin committed since Adam's (PBUH) creation; paradise is forbidden for the Arrogant. Allah (SWT) says to Shaytan, the first creature committing that sin, what can be translated as, "get down from this (Paradise), it is not for you to be arrogant here" (TMQ, 7:13). The Prophet (PBUH) says, "He who has in his heart the weight of a mustard seed of pride shall not enter Paradise.” (Muslim)
Following are the types of Arrogance. Try to discern if your heart carries any type of these or not.
The first type of Arrogance is being unjust with people; holding them in contempt, and oppressing them. I am afraid that a person might treat a servant at home this way; the leader or manager might do that with his employees; or the youth with people who are less fortunate or less intelligent. Showing contempt for people and belittling their social level represents a kind of arrogance.
The second type of Arrogance is strutting around [or showing off]. For example, when a woman walks in a way that shows off her beauty, and the one who wears a suit and feels that he is better than everybody. I do not mean we should not wear suits. The Prophet (PBUH) says, "Allah is beautiful and admires beauty" (Muslim). Hence, you can wear whatever you like but do not show off and think that people are lower than you. The Prophet (PBUH) says, "A man strutted around, wearing his long robe, and admiring himself a lot, and Allah caused the earth to sink with him, thus such the man is in torture until the Day of Judgment” (Bukhari, Muslim)
The third type of Arrogance is refusing to accept any advice and refusing to get back to the right path even if you know the way to it. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "And when it is said to him, "Fear Allah", he is led by arrogance to (more) crime. So enough for him is Hell, and worst indeed is that place to rest!" (TMQ, 2:206).
The fourth type of Arrogance is the love of having people humiliated and making them submit. Some husbands treat their wives this way and humiliate them. The Prophet (PBUH) says that such people have their places in Hell.
The fifth type of Arrogance is to stop praying. If one says, "I want to pray but I cannot", this is the major proof of his Pride. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "And your Lord said: "Invoke Me, I will respond to your (invocation). Verily! Those who scorn My worship they will surely enter Hell in humiliation!" (TMQ, 40:60). The person who demands nothing from Allah (SWT), and who stays one week without raising his hands asking Allah (SWT) to grant him what he needs is proud and arrogant.
Let’s go back to Shaytan’s excessive pride, which led him to think ignorantly. He says, addressing Allah (SWT), what can be translated as, "I am not one to prostrate myself to man, whom You did create from sounding clay, from mud molded into shape.” (TMQ, 15:33). His point of view is that fire is stronger and higher in status than clay, so how is it possible that the stronger and higher prostrates to the weaker and the lower? His pride rendered him blind in front of the truth. The nature of fire is burning, while the nature of clay is goodness, blessing and feeding people. The nature of fire is violence and recklessness, while the nature of clay is firmness and stability. Although the fire has some benefits, there is evil inherent within. As for clay; it cannot bear evil since it is full of benefits. Can you see how Allah (SWT) has been so generous in our creation? Sometimes we do exactly as Shaytan did with regard to this point and we misunderstand while making comparisons. For example, we leave boys and girls to mix freely as they want, because if we separate them they will be repressed and they will miss each other. Sometimes we follow the Shaytan and start thinking that we can leave the boys and girls to have free relations with each other so they won’t have any suppression later on. This is the way we think sometimes, right? Nevertheless, you have to avoid this devilish thinking and realize the consequences. Notice what happened in the West, where lust is everywhere and open to everyone, until people started heading into perversions. Limiting the relationships between boys and girls to marriage helps to maintain the pure instinct, which in turn keeps the human desire burning after marriage rather than destroying it before marriage and corrupting man.
Back to Shaytan when he says what can be translated as, "You have created me" (TMQ, 38:76). Here he admitted Allah’s (SWT) creation. In another verse he swears by Allah’s (SWT) glory "by Your glory" as he admits Allah's (SWT) glory and in a third verse that can be translated as, "Give me then respite till the Day they (the dead) will be resurrected" (TMQ, 7:14). Thus, Shaytan did not deny that Allah (SWT) is the Creator but his problem was being disobedient (Allah (SWT) is our God, but has no right to say “do that” and “don’t do that”). He considered that obeying Allah (SWT) and His creation of us are two different issues; that Allah (SWT) has created us but we wander about in the world as we like. This is not true. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "Surely, His is the Creation and Commandment…" (TMQ, 7:54). Thus He who creates, orders as well. Beware of falling into that mistake of separating between creation and obedience. Another verse clarifies what can be translated as, "It is not for a believer, man or woman, when Allah and His Messenger have decreed a matter that they should have any option in their decision". (TMQ, 33:36).
Islam is the name of our religion, which means submission to Allah (SWT) and to his orders. Being a Muslim means being submissive to Allah (SWT). Shaytan's problem is that he has not submitted to Allah (SWT), although he is fully aware of Allah’s (SWT) glory and that Allah (SWT) is the only Creator. Is any one suffering from such a problem? The problem is not in disobeying but the problem is in saying “No” to disobedience and rejecting sins.
Has Shaytan stopped at this extent? No, but he declared war on Adam (PBUH). Read Surat Al-Araf (chapter of “The Heights”) verses 11-13, and always remember that Shaytan is your enemy. “And surely, We created you (your father Adam) and then gave you shape (the noble shape of a human being); then We told the angels, "Prostrate yourselves to Adam", and they prostrated themselves, except Iblis (Satan), he refused to be of those who prostrated themselves. Allah) said: "What prevented you (O Iblis) that you did not prostrate yourself, when I commanded you?" Iblis said: "I am better than him (Adam), You created me from fire, and him You created from clay." (Allah) said: "(O Iblis) get down from this (Paradise), it is not for you to be arrogant here. Get out, for you are of those humiliated and disgraced." (TMQ, 7:11-13).
Also declare to Allah (SWT) that Shaytan is your archenemy. “Surely, Shaytan is an enemy to you, so take (treat) him as an enemy. He only invites his followers so that they may become the dwellers of the blazing Fire.” (TMQ, 35:6).
The Holy Qur’an displays Shaytan's point of view and gives him the chance to express it freely. But Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "(O Iblis) get down from this (Paradise), it is not for you to be arrogant here. Get out, for you are of those humiliated and disgraced." (TMQ, 7:13) The word “humiliated” (saghereen) in the verse is derived from the word “the smallest” (as-ghar) in Arabic, which is the opposite of “the biggest” (akbar) [the root form of the word “arrogant” (takkabar)]. The verse conveys that anyone who behaves arrogantly on earth is doomed to be humiliated and disgraced by Allah (SWT). Thus, if you become proud, you will be humiliated and belittled and will be crushed by people's feet on the Day of Judgment.
The verse following these verses, can be translated as, "Give me then respite till the Day they (the dead) will be resurrected” (TMQ, 7:14), shows that he will stay alive until the Day of Judgment. This means that his enmity and hatred is directed to every human being, not only Adam (PBUH). Can you realize how much he hates the human race? He prayed to Allah (SWT) to keep him alive until the Resurrection Day. Allah (SWT) agreed and responded to his request, "You are of those given respite." (TMQ, 7:15). One of the generation following the Companions of the Prophet (PBUH) said, “Don't be deceived with your vices or defects. Allah has responded to the prayers of the most evil creature (Shaytan), so wouldn't He respond to yours and accept them?"
In the next verse, Shaytan says, what can be translated as, "(Iblis) said: "Because You have sent me astray, surely I will sit in wait against them (human beings) on Your Straight Path" (TMQ, 7:16). Do you perceive Shaytan’s rudeness in addressing Allah (SWT) when saying that Allah (SWT) has sent him astray? Allah forbid!
Some people do that; they say, “ What can I do? Allah did this to me! If Allah had rightly guided me, I would have been on the right way; I wanted to be good, but Allah has put me with the company bad friends, and so I got lost!” Beware of that impudence with Allah (SWT).
Shaytan says to Allah (SWT) that he won't go to those who always go nightclubs, but I will lie in wait for anyone who walks in Your path and I will spoil it, taking him away from that path. Thus, Shaytan saves all his efforts for the believers and does not care much about the disobedient. The more the number of believers’ increases, the more he becomes tired. Ibn al-‘Abbas said that someone came to him and told him that the Jews had claimed that Shaytan did not whisper evil to them during their prayers. Why would Shaytan whisper evil to them when their prayer is mainly false?
Hence, the more you go along the right path, the more Shaytan lurks there waiting for you. Such is the battle between you and Shaytan, and when it gets fiercer with the depth and power of your belief, he will gather his soldiers against you. Will you give up, get weak and lose the battle?
In the next verse that can be translated as, "Then I will come to them from before them and behind them, from their right and from their left, and You will not find most of them as thankful ones." (TMQ, 7:17). Shaytan mentions four directions (right-left-back-front) while originally there are 6 directions. He did not mention the direction where the person prostrates to Allah while praying (down below), and the direction that is opened for the prayers and set as an outlet for Allah’s (SWT) mercy to people (from above).
One of the most serious methods of misguidance that Shaytan uses is making us discontent with Allah's (SWT) grace. Allah (SWT) has warned us from this in the Holy Qur’an by saying what can be translated as, “You will not find most of them as thankful ones", because when we feel thankful to Allah (SWT) we will continue worshipping and loving Him. Shaytan tries hard to make us forget Allah's (SWT) blessings. Beware of forgetting Allah's (SWT) blessings and graces. Allah (SWT) has sent the whole chapter of Quraysh in the Holy Qur’an to show the danger of forgetting Allah's (SWT) grace: “(It is a great Grace from Allah) for the protection of the Quraysh, (We cause) the (Quraysh) caravans to set forth safely in winter and in summer, So let them worship (Allah) the Lord of this House (the Ka’ba in Makkah), (He) Who has fed them against hunger, and has made them safe from fear." (TMQ, 106:1-4).
Allah (SWT) says in Surat An-Nisaa (chapter “The Women”) what can be translated as, "Allah cursed him. And he [Shaytan] said: "I will take an appointed portion of your slaves." (TMQ, 4:118). Do you see how Shaytan speaks about us? He wants us to be lost. “Verily, I will mislead them, and surely, I will arouse in them false desires” (TMQ, 4:119). He whispers evil to the youth, and beautifies sins before their eyes, like secret marriage, disobeying parents, ignoring studies, as well as luring girls to take off their Hijab on their wedding days. “…and certainly, I will order them to slit the ears of cattle, and indeed I will order them to change the nature created by Allah." (TMQ, 4:119), like the modern hairstyles and dyes, and guys wearing earrings. “And whoever takes Shaytan as a Wali (protector or helper) instead of Allah, has surely suffered a manifest loss. He (Shaytan) makes promises to them, and arouses in them false desires; and Shaytan’s promises are nothing but deceptions. The dwelling of such (people) is Hell, and they will find no way of escape from it.” (TMQ, 4:119-121).
Allah (SWT) says in Surat Al-Israa (the Night Journey) what can be translated as: "And (remember) when We said to the angels: "Prostrate yourselves unto Adam." They prostrated themselves except Iblis. He said: "Shall I prostrate myself to one whom You created from clay?" (Iblis) said: "See this one whom You have honored above me, if You give me respite (keep me alive) to the Day of Resurrection, I will surely seize and mislead his offspring (by sending them astray) all but a few!" (TMQ, 17:61-62). Can you sense Shaytan’s hatred and rudeness? The Arabic word used (ahtanekan) and translated into “seize”, came from the word (hanak) that means mouth or jaw. This means that he will put the bridle around your mouth, exactly like putting the bridle around the jaw of an animal. Has he succeeded in putting the bridle around your mouth? Have you taken the bridle off? Read the Holy Qur’an with all your heart, "(Allah) said, "Go, and whosoever of them follows you, surely Hell will be the recompense of you (all) - an ample recompense." (TMQ, 17:63). Any one who accepts your bridle deserves to go to hell with the devils.
"And befool them gradually, those whom you can among them, with your voice; make assaults on them with your cavalry and your infantry; share with them wealth and children, and make promises to them." But Satan promises them nothing but deceit." (TMQ, 17:64). This verse shows the battle between Shaytan and us: he starts calling and asking his cavalry, soldiers from mankind or from jinn. It is the same voice he uses when he whispers suggestions of sexual excitement or for seeking ill-gotten gains in your ears. This is besides his sharing in your money by wasting it in useless things. As for youth, he urges them marry corrupted people and bring up devilish children. This is why you have to choose your spouse carefully so that Shaytan gets no share in your children.
Has Shaytan succeeded in carrying out his threats?
1. TMQ=Translation of the Meaning of the Qur'an. This translation is for the realized meaning, so far, of the stated (Surah:Ayah) of the Qur'an. Reading the translated meaning of the Qur'an can never replace reading it in Arabic, the language in which it was revealed.
2. Editor’s note: Often, with the stories of the Biblical Prophets, the scholars have used Isra’iliyat—these are stories or explanations that came to us through Jews and Christians who accepted Islam. These stories are neither found in the Qur’an nor in the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) but may come from the Bible or oral traditions. The Isra’iliyat are only used to add detail to the prophets’ stories if they do not contradict the Qur’an or Sunnah; cited in this text by (Isra’iliyat) or (Isr.)
AmrKhaled.net
The Creation of Adam - Part 4
Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified, says what can be translated as, “And indeed Iblîs (Satan’s name) did prove true his thought about them: and they followed him,” (TMQ, 34:20) (1). Iblîs thought that once he pointed to Man, he (man) would respond to him at altogether, “all except a group of true believers”. (TMQ, 34:20).
You will see Iblîs on the Day of Judgment in hell, leaning on a column to be seen by all the people in hell, while delivering the most famous speech in history. “And Shaytân (Satan) will say when the matter has been decided: "Verily, Allâh promised you a promise of truth. And I too promised you, but I betrayed you. I had no authority over you except that I called you, and you responded to me. So blame me not, but blame yourselves. I cannot help you, nor can you help me. I deny your former act in associating me (Satan) as a partner with Allâh (by obeying me in the worldly life). Verily, there is a painful torment for the Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers)’ ”. (TMQ, 14:22).
Have you felt his enmity towards you?
Shaytan has his soldiers, he makes promises [for things that we desire], and he shares in our wealth and families, and you have soldiers and fortresses more powerful than he does. You have these eleven different soldiers and fortifications:
1. Seeking refuge with Allah: Once you resort to Allah, seeking refuge from Shaytan. Allah says what can be translated as, “And if an evil whisper comes to you from Shaytân, then seek refuge with Allâh. Verily, He is All-Hearer, All-Knower” (TMQ, 7:200). Shaytan has no power over you since he is “the whisperer who withdraws”. Allah set “the whisperer” and "who withdraws" beside each other, because “the evil whisperer” “withdraws from his whispering to one's heart after one remembers Allah”.
2. Dhikr (remembrances) of Allah: By continuously glorifying Him, saying “Glory to Allah, the Greatest” (sobhaan Allah al-Atheem), and “Praise be to Allah” (Alhamdu lillah).
3. Reciting the Ma'audhatayn: (the last two surahs of the Qur’an: Al-Falaq and An-Naas) every morning and evening. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommends reading them to avoid evil.
4. Reciting Ayat-al-Kursi: (the Verse of the Chair/Throne). Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) says, “When you go to your bed, recite Ayat-al-Kursi, (2:255) for then there will be a guard from Allah who will protect you all night long, and Shaytan will not be able to come near you until dawn." (Bukhari) Recite it also after performing each prayer.
5. Reading Surat Al-Baqarah (The Cow): Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) says, “Shaytan cannot come near the house whose people read Surat Al-Baqarah (The Cow)”. (Muslim)
6. Saying “There is no God but Allah, He who has no partner, owns everything, and to Whom we are all thankful. Allah is capable of everything; has the power to create life and death.”: Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) says, “Whoever says this 100 times daily is saved from Shaytan”. (Bukhari)
7. Ablution (wudhu): Shaytan is created from fire, which is extinguished by water.
8. Lowering one's gaze: The gaze allows a wide entrance for Shaytan.
9. Seeking the company of dutiful Muslims: Shaytan is always with the loner.
10. Prayers (salat): Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) says, “If a man performs the Fajr (dawn) prayers and prostrates in worship, Shaytan says, “Woe to you! Man is ordered to prostrate and he did, hence his reward is Paradise. I was ordered to prostrate but I disobeyed, and my punishment is Hell”. (Sahih Muslim, 81)
11. Repentance (taubah): When Shaytan said to Allah, “I swear by Your Glory and Exaltedness to lure them”, Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified, replied what means, “I swear by My Glory and Exaltedness to forgive them as long as they ask My forgiveness”.
Have you awakened to the battle and perceived the soldiers and fortresses that Allah has granted you? You are stronger and much more powerful, so don't be afraid. Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified, says what means, “Will you then take him (Iblîs) and his offspring as protectors and helpers rather than Me while they are enemies to you? How evil is the exchange for the Zâlimûn (polytheists, and wrong-doers).” (TMQ, 18:50).
Shaytan was driven away from Paradise and it remained for Adam only. He lived alone, and so he felt lonely; he needed someone. Hawwa’ (Eve) was created from his rib while he was asleep. When he woke up, he found her beside him, he asked her:
- “Who are you?”
- “I am a woman”.
- “What's your name?”
- “Hawwa’”.
- “Why have you been created?”
- ”So that you may find repose in me”. (Isra’iliyat) (2).
Commenting on this:
• Why did she say “woman”?
Because she was created from “man”, so “woman” is part of “man”, and therefore the noun is derived from the noun “man”.
• Why was she called Hawwa’?
Because she was created from something alive (Hai in Arabic), i.e. Adam's rib.
• Why was she created while he was asleep?
So that he would not feel the pain of creation, which might cause some change in his heart toward her and prevent him from treating her tenderly.
Imam Al-Qurtubi in describing this point, “so that he would not feel the pain of her creation” says. “She was created while he was sleeping so that his heart would not change against her, because men are not dominated by emotions (affection, companionship, etc.). Hence, if he had felt the pain when she was created, he would have become annoyed with her as she had caused him pain.”
Can you imagine woman's pain while giving birth to her child? Emotions in woman dominate all other feelings, so her emotions increase with the increase of pain.
Can you appreciate the difference between man and woman?
The meaning of “to find repose in me” is to achieve reassurance and comfort on earth. Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified, says what means “And among His Signs is this, that He created for you wives from among yourselves, that you may find repose in them” (TMQ, 30:21). So Woman was created as a symbol for repose, comfort and reassurance on earth. “Feeling reassured” refers to feeling comfortable and safe in a settled place, without which man becomes lost. Whenever Allah mentions Adam and Hawwa’, He mentions “to find repose in her”. The woman is able to make her house like Hell or make it full of comfort and safety.
Khadijah (RA) was a real comfort to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and she succeeded in achieving the target of her existence as a woman. Hence, when she died she deserved that moment when Jibril (AS) (Gabriel) descended from Heaven and told Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): "O Prophet of Allah! Give salutations to Khadija with Allah's peace. Tell her Allah heralds you with a palace made of mother-of-pearl". (Bukhari, Muslim)
Hawwa’ was created from a part of Adam. You may wonder: could she be created separately? Why was she created from Adam? Allah-be He Exalted and Glorified- says what means, "O mankind! Be dutiful to your Lord, Who created you from a single person (Adam), and from him (Adam) He created his wife…" (TMQ, 4:1). This is to make man feel that woman is part of him; therefore, Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) last advice was, "Take good care of women". (Bukhari)
Note that Adam was created from earth’s dust while Hawwa’ was created from his rib. Each of them was created from the part he or she will deal with: Adam will deal with the earth, whether as a wrestler, a farmer or a fighter, and Hawwa’ will deal with children and husbands and motherhood. Thus, Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified, wanted to create everything from the origin of what it will deal with.
Furthermore, Hawwa’ was created from a crooked rib. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) says, "Take good care of women. Woman was created from a rib, and the most crooked part of a rib is its uppermost part. If you start to straighten it, it might be broken, and if you leave it, it keeps its crooked shape. Hence, take good care of women". (Bukhari)
Hawwa’ was created from Adam's left rib, which is crooked because the function of the left rib is to protect the heart from injury. Therefore, the heart is surrounded by a crooked rib that protects it. Being created from a crooked rib does not signify that she is bad in behavior. Emotion is the dominating dimension in women, and most of the time it dominates logic so that woman would be able to practice her tenderness and kindness. The crookedness of the rib is something natural that helps the woman to perform her job. Be careful not to tell her, "Don't be jealous or don't get worried." because this would be "breaking" her. Also, do not tell her, "don't think with your heart, think with your mind". Beware of breaking her heart, because this would be breaking her essence.
There is another meaning mentioned by Imam Al-Qurtubi:
- The Angels said to Adam: "Do you love her Adam?"
- Adam said: "Yes".
- The Angels asked Hawwa’, "Hawwa’, do you love him?"
- She answered, "No!", though deep in her heart she had more love for him than he had for her.
Al-Qurtubi comments on this saying, "If women were honest in expressing their feelings of love to their husbands, Hawwa’ would have been the first to do it".
In Surat Taha in the Holy Qur’an, Allah says what can be translated as, "And (remember) when We said to the angels: "Prostrate yourselves to Adam." They prostrated themselves (all) except Iblîs; he refused. Then We said: "O Adam! Verily, this is an enemy to you and to your wife. So let him not get you both out of Paradise, so that you will be distressed. Verily, you have (a promise from Us) that you will never be hungry therein nor naked. And you (will) suffer not from thirst therein nor from the sun's heat." (TMQ, 20:116-119).
This verse shows four blessings granted by Allah to Adam:
1- He would never feel hungry.
2- He would never feel thirsty.
3- He would never feel hot (the weather was not hot at all, as there was shade everywhere).
4- He would never be naked, as Allah would conceal his private parts.
When first created, Adam did not feel naked, and neither did Hawwa’. Man did not know nakedness from the first moment. Then, when was nakedness known? It was known when Adam went astray from Allah's path. The more humankind develops and strays far away from Allah’s path, the more nakedness increases.
In Surat Al-A'râf (the Heights) verse 19, Allah says what can be translated as, "And O Adam! Dwell you and your wife in Paradise, and eat thereof as you both wish, but approach not this tree otherwise you both will be of the Zâlimûn (unjust and wrong-doers)." (TMQ, 7:19).
This means, "Adam you can eat whatever you want, except the fruits of this specific tree". You can also notice that Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified, prepared Paradise for both Adam and Hawwa’, and not for Adam alone.
Then, how could Adam not consider this? You have many trees in your life, but you insist on one specific tree, and you don't want anything except this tree. You say to yourself, "I must drink alcohol." although there are many other drinks that are allowed to you.
Why did Adam seek from the forbidden tree? It was the same entrance that Shaytan uses with every one of us. Shaytan makes you see what you do not possess as more beautiful, more desirable and better than what you already have. This is a wicked trick played by Shaytan to make you go after the forbidden rather than the lawful and permissible, or at least he makes you hate what is permissible. For example, the husband whose wife is so beautiful and respectable and exerts all efforts to satisfy him; such a man might be attracted to another woman who might be less pretty than his wife. Shaytan makes her [the forbidden woman] more beautiful in the man's eyes despite the fact that he already has what is permitted.
Shaytan wants you to run after the forbidden or hate what you have in your hands so you will not thank Allah or be grateful to Him. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "and you will not find most of them as grateful". This is a strong method used by Satan to attack us. Adam's tree is repeated in several forms with all of us. Try to struggle against yourself even once, you will feel such a sweet feeling that you have never sensed before. You will feel your power, strong will and strength instead of being Shaytan’s captive. Get rid of Shaytan’s curb and you will feel extreme happiness+ the Angels' happiness for you+ Allah's happiness for you.
In Surat Al-A'râf (The Heights) verse 20, Allah says what can be translated as, "Then Shaytaan whispered suggestions to them both…” (TMQ, 7:20). Note Allah's choice of words "whispered", which indicates Shaytan’s insistence. Can you recognize the miraculous nature of the Holy Qur’an? “…in order to uncover that which was hidden from them of their private parts (before)” (TMQ, 7:20); Satan wants nakedness, so beware girls of exposing your body, or of allowing any man to touch you except after marriage, or allowing any man to hold your hand or kiss you. “…he (Shaytan) said, ‘Your Lord did not forbid you this tree except that you should become angels or become of the immortals.’ ”( TMQ, 7:20).
In Surat Taha the Shaytan said to Adam what can be translated as, "O Adam! Shall I lead you to the Tree of Eternity and to a kingdom that will never waste away?" (TMQ, 20:120). In this context Shaytan called it "Tree of Eternity". There is no tree with this name, and so Shaytan tricked them and all of us all this time.
Shaytan called atheism “creativity” or “freedom”, and called nakedness “fashion”. A young man would say, "I will not commit adultery, I will just go out with that girl and we will sit alone. I will not commit adultery, God Forbid!" In such a context the names are changed, and Shaytan starts to fix the wrong names in your mind until you yourself change.
The following verse from Surat Al-A'râf, can be translated as, "And he (Shaytân) swore by Allah to them both that he was their sincere adviser.” (TMQ, 7:21) (i.e. he falsely swore by Allah to them, which is the second sin committed after pride.) This in itself indicates that Adam did not respond directly to Shaytan, who tried more than once until he falsely swore [it was true]. However, with you, Shaytan does not need to swear to you to push you to commit sins because you respond right away. “Verily, I am one of the sincere well-wishers for you both." (TMQ, 7:21).
Adam and Hawwa’ had a pure nature; therefore, when they found Shaytan swearing by Allah, they could not imagine that there could be anyone who dares to swear by Allah falsely.
"So he misled them with deception…" (TMQ, 7:22) Shaytan started to push them gradually. Notice the beautiful Qur’anic expressions used to exemplify how Shaytan took gradual steps to humiliate them. Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified told them to keep away from the tree, but Shaytan told them to sit beside the tree. In other words, Shaytan will not suggest to you directly to drink alcohol, but will urge you to accompany someone who drinks. Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified, says in Surat Al-Baqarah (The Cow), "Satan misled them away from it" (TMQ, 2:36).
"Then when they tasted of the tree…” (TMQ, 7:22). The word "tasted" here makes clear that just tasting the tree’s fruit angered Allah. Hence, never say, "I will just ‘taste’ sin and will not [really] do it”. “…that which was hidden from them of their shame (private parts) became manifest to them" (TMQ, 7:22). Note how all the verses focus on the same meaning—private parts and nakedness—because this is a serious issue that will drive humanity to Hell. "And they began to cover themselves with the leaves of Paradise (in order to cover their shame)." (TMQ, 7:22). Adam and Hawwa’ ran to grab the leaves of the trees of Paradise to cover themselves. Do you see how shy they were? How do you dare look at nakedness through the Internet and satellite channels?
"And their Lord called out to them (saying): ‘Did I not forbid you that tree and tell you: Verily Shaytan is an open enemy unto you’" (TMQ, 7:22). Allah asked them, as He will do with us. What will your answer be when Allah calls you and asks, "Why did you do this? Why did you do that? Have not I prohibited you from doing this?"
On the Day of Judgment Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified, says, "O my slave! You underestimated meeting me. Have I been so insignificant to you, or have I not been watching your eyes when they were looking at the forbidden? Have I not been watching your lips when they were saying the forbidden? What mislead you from My path, my slave? What misled you from My path? O my slave! Read your book! “Did I not forbid you that tree and tell you: Verily Shaytan is an open enemy unto you” (TMQ, 7:22).
Here, at the end of my speech, I want to say that Adam and Hawwa’ were expelled from Paradise, and they didn't know what to do:
- Allah (SWT) said, "Are you running to escape from me Adam?"
- Adam replied, "No Allah, I am running because I’m ashamed of myself".
The main lessons learned from this lecture:
1. Beware of conceit.
2. Declare war against Shaytan and consider him your enemy.
3. Beware of the steps taken by Shaytan to control you, and resort to the eleven fortifications we mentioned.
Dear brother, your wife is your comfort. Dear sister, your husband is your comfort.
1) TMQ=Translation of the Meaning of the Qur'an. This translation is for the realized meaning, so far, of the stated (Surah:Ayah) of the Qur'an. Reading the translated meaning of the Qur'an can never replace reading it in Arabic, the language in which it was revealed.
2) Editor’s note: Often, with the stories of the Biblical Prophets, the scholars have used Isra’iliyat—stories or explanations that came to us through Jews and Christians who accepted Islam. These stories are neither found in the Qur’an nor in the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) but may come from the Bible or oral traditions. The Isra’iliyat are only used to add detail to the prophets’ stories if they do not contradict the Qur’an or Sunnah. They will be cited in this text by either (Isra’iliyat) or (Isr.).
AmrKhaled.net
You will see Iblîs on the Day of Judgment in hell, leaning on a column to be seen by all the people in hell, while delivering the most famous speech in history. “And Shaytân (Satan) will say when the matter has been decided: "Verily, Allâh promised you a promise of truth. And I too promised you, but I betrayed you. I had no authority over you except that I called you, and you responded to me. So blame me not, but blame yourselves. I cannot help you, nor can you help me. I deny your former act in associating me (Satan) as a partner with Allâh (by obeying me in the worldly life). Verily, there is a painful torment for the Zâlimûn (polytheists and wrong-doers)’ ”. (TMQ, 14:22).
Have you felt his enmity towards you?
Shaytan has his soldiers, he makes promises [for things that we desire], and he shares in our wealth and families, and you have soldiers and fortresses more powerful than he does. You have these eleven different soldiers and fortifications:
1. Seeking refuge with Allah: Once you resort to Allah, seeking refuge from Shaytan. Allah says what can be translated as, “And if an evil whisper comes to you from Shaytân, then seek refuge with Allâh. Verily, He is All-Hearer, All-Knower” (TMQ, 7:200). Shaytan has no power over you since he is “the whisperer who withdraws”. Allah set “the whisperer” and "who withdraws" beside each other, because “the evil whisperer” “withdraws from his whispering to one's heart after one remembers Allah”.
2. Dhikr (remembrances) of Allah: By continuously glorifying Him, saying “Glory to Allah, the Greatest” (sobhaan Allah al-Atheem), and “Praise be to Allah” (Alhamdu lillah).
3. Reciting the Ma'audhatayn: (the last two surahs of the Qur’an: Al-Falaq and An-Naas) every morning and evening. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) recommends reading them to avoid evil.
4. Reciting Ayat-al-Kursi: (the Verse of the Chair/Throne). Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) says, “When you go to your bed, recite Ayat-al-Kursi, (2:255) for then there will be a guard from Allah who will protect you all night long, and Shaytan will not be able to come near you until dawn." (Bukhari) Recite it also after performing each prayer.
5. Reading Surat Al-Baqarah (The Cow): Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) says, “Shaytan cannot come near the house whose people read Surat Al-Baqarah (The Cow)”. (Muslim)
6. Saying “There is no God but Allah, He who has no partner, owns everything, and to Whom we are all thankful. Allah is capable of everything; has the power to create life and death.”: Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) says, “Whoever says this 100 times daily is saved from Shaytan”. (Bukhari)
7. Ablution (wudhu): Shaytan is created from fire, which is extinguished by water.
8. Lowering one's gaze: The gaze allows a wide entrance for Shaytan.
9. Seeking the company of dutiful Muslims: Shaytan is always with the loner.
10. Prayers (salat): Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) says, “If a man performs the Fajr (dawn) prayers and prostrates in worship, Shaytan says, “Woe to you! Man is ordered to prostrate and he did, hence his reward is Paradise. I was ordered to prostrate but I disobeyed, and my punishment is Hell”. (Sahih Muslim, 81)
11. Repentance (taubah): When Shaytan said to Allah, “I swear by Your Glory and Exaltedness to lure them”, Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified, replied what means, “I swear by My Glory and Exaltedness to forgive them as long as they ask My forgiveness”.
Have you awakened to the battle and perceived the soldiers and fortresses that Allah has granted you? You are stronger and much more powerful, so don't be afraid. Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified, says what means, “Will you then take him (Iblîs) and his offspring as protectors and helpers rather than Me while they are enemies to you? How evil is the exchange for the Zâlimûn (polytheists, and wrong-doers).” (TMQ, 18:50).
Shaytan was driven away from Paradise and it remained for Adam only. He lived alone, and so he felt lonely; he needed someone. Hawwa’ (Eve) was created from his rib while he was asleep. When he woke up, he found her beside him, he asked her:
- “Who are you?”
- “I am a woman”.
- “What's your name?”
- “Hawwa’”.
- “Why have you been created?”
- ”So that you may find repose in me”. (Isra’iliyat) (2).
Commenting on this:
• Why did she say “woman”?
Because she was created from “man”, so “woman” is part of “man”, and therefore the noun is derived from the noun “man”.
• Why was she called Hawwa’?
Because she was created from something alive (Hai in Arabic), i.e. Adam's rib.
• Why was she created while he was asleep?
So that he would not feel the pain of creation, which might cause some change in his heart toward her and prevent him from treating her tenderly.
Imam Al-Qurtubi in describing this point, “so that he would not feel the pain of her creation” says. “She was created while he was sleeping so that his heart would not change against her, because men are not dominated by emotions (affection, companionship, etc.). Hence, if he had felt the pain when she was created, he would have become annoyed with her as she had caused him pain.”
Can you imagine woman's pain while giving birth to her child? Emotions in woman dominate all other feelings, so her emotions increase with the increase of pain.
Can you appreciate the difference between man and woman?
The meaning of “to find repose in me” is to achieve reassurance and comfort on earth. Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified, says what means “And among His Signs is this, that He created for you wives from among yourselves, that you may find repose in them” (TMQ, 30:21). So Woman was created as a symbol for repose, comfort and reassurance on earth. “Feeling reassured” refers to feeling comfortable and safe in a settled place, without which man becomes lost. Whenever Allah mentions Adam and Hawwa’, He mentions “to find repose in her”. The woman is able to make her house like Hell or make it full of comfort and safety.
Khadijah (RA) was a real comfort to Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), and she succeeded in achieving the target of her existence as a woman. Hence, when she died she deserved that moment when Jibril (AS) (Gabriel) descended from Heaven and told Prophet Muhammad (PBUH): "O Prophet of Allah! Give salutations to Khadija with Allah's peace. Tell her Allah heralds you with a palace made of mother-of-pearl". (Bukhari, Muslim)
Hawwa’ was created from a part of Adam. You may wonder: could she be created separately? Why was she created from Adam? Allah-be He Exalted and Glorified- says what means, "O mankind! Be dutiful to your Lord, Who created you from a single person (Adam), and from him (Adam) He created his wife…" (TMQ, 4:1). This is to make man feel that woman is part of him; therefore, Prophet Muhammad's (PBUH) last advice was, "Take good care of women". (Bukhari)
Note that Adam was created from earth’s dust while Hawwa’ was created from his rib. Each of them was created from the part he or she will deal with: Adam will deal with the earth, whether as a wrestler, a farmer or a fighter, and Hawwa’ will deal with children and husbands and motherhood. Thus, Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified, wanted to create everything from the origin of what it will deal with.
Furthermore, Hawwa’ was created from a crooked rib. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) says, "Take good care of women. Woman was created from a rib, and the most crooked part of a rib is its uppermost part. If you start to straighten it, it might be broken, and if you leave it, it keeps its crooked shape. Hence, take good care of women". (Bukhari)
Hawwa’ was created from Adam's left rib, which is crooked because the function of the left rib is to protect the heart from injury. Therefore, the heart is surrounded by a crooked rib that protects it. Being created from a crooked rib does not signify that she is bad in behavior. Emotion is the dominating dimension in women, and most of the time it dominates logic so that woman would be able to practice her tenderness and kindness. The crookedness of the rib is something natural that helps the woman to perform her job. Be careful not to tell her, "Don't be jealous or don't get worried." because this would be "breaking" her. Also, do not tell her, "don't think with your heart, think with your mind". Beware of breaking her heart, because this would be breaking her essence.
There is another meaning mentioned by Imam Al-Qurtubi:
- The Angels said to Adam: "Do you love her Adam?"
- Adam said: "Yes".
- The Angels asked Hawwa’, "Hawwa’, do you love him?"
- She answered, "No!", though deep in her heart she had more love for him than he had for her.
Al-Qurtubi comments on this saying, "If women were honest in expressing their feelings of love to their husbands, Hawwa’ would have been the first to do it".
In Surat Taha in the Holy Qur’an, Allah says what can be translated as, "And (remember) when We said to the angels: "Prostrate yourselves to Adam." They prostrated themselves (all) except Iblîs; he refused. Then We said: "O Adam! Verily, this is an enemy to you and to your wife. So let him not get you both out of Paradise, so that you will be distressed. Verily, you have (a promise from Us) that you will never be hungry therein nor naked. And you (will) suffer not from thirst therein nor from the sun's heat." (TMQ, 20:116-119).
This verse shows four blessings granted by Allah to Adam:
1- He would never feel hungry.
2- He would never feel thirsty.
3- He would never feel hot (the weather was not hot at all, as there was shade everywhere).
4- He would never be naked, as Allah would conceal his private parts.
When first created, Adam did not feel naked, and neither did Hawwa’. Man did not know nakedness from the first moment. Then, when was nakedness known? It was known when Adam went astray from Allah's path. The more humankind develops and strays far away from Allah’s path, the more nakedness increases.
In Surat Al-A'râf (the Heights) verse 19, Allah says what can be translated as, "And O Adam! Dwell you and your wife in Paradise, and eat thereof as you both wish, but approach not this tree otherwise you both will be of the Zâlimûn (unjust and wrong-doers)." (TMQ, 7:19).
This means, "Adam you can eat whatever you want, except the fruits of this specific tree". You can also notice that Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified, prepared Paradise for both Adam and Hawwa’, and not for Adam alone.
Then, how could Adam not consider this? You have many trees in your life, but you insist on one specific tree, and you don't want anything except this tree. You say to yourself, "I must drink alcohol." although there are many other drinks that are allowed to you.
Why did Adam seek from the forbidden tree? It was the same entrance that Shaytan uses with every one of us. Shaytan makes you see what you do not possess as more beautiful, more desirable and better than what you already have. This is a wicked trick played by Shaytan to make you go after the forbidden rather than the lawful and permissible, or at least he makes you hate what is permissible. For example, the husband whose wife is so beautiful and respectable and exerts all efforts to satisfy him; such a man might be attracted to another woman who might be less pretty than his wife. Shaytan makes her [the forbidden woman] more beautiful in the man's eyes despite the fact that he already has what is permitted.
Shaytan wants you to run after the forbidden or hate what you have in your hands so you will not thank Allah or be grateful to Him. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "and you will not find most of them as grateful". This is a strong method used by Satan to attack us. Adam's tree is repeated in several forms with all of us. Try to struggle against yourself even once, you will feel such a sweet feeling that you have never sensed before. You will feel your power, strong will and strength instead of being Shaytan’s captive. Get rid of Shaytan’s curb and you will feel extreme happiness+ the Angels' happiness for you+ Allah's happiness for you.
In Surat Al-A'râf (The Heights) verse 20, Allah says what can be translated as, "Then Shaytaan whispered suggestions to them both…” (TMQ, 7:20). Note Allah's choice of words "whispered", which indicates Shaytan’s insistence. Can you recognize the miraculous nature of the Holy Qur’an? “…in order to uncover that which was hidden from them of their private parts (before)” (TMQ, 7:20); Satan wants nakedness, so beware girls of exposing your body, or of allowing any man to touch you except after marriage, or allowing any man to hold your hand or kiss you. “…he (Shaytan) said, ‘Your Lord did not forbid you this tree except that you should become angels or become of the immortals.’ ”( TMQ, 7:20).
In Surat Taha the Shaytan said to Adam what can be translated as, "O Adam! Shall I lead you to the Tree of Eternity and to a kingdom that will never waste away?" (TMQ, 20:120). In this context Shaytan called it "Tree of Eternity". There is no tree with this name, and so Shaytan tricked them and all of us all this time.
Shaytan called atheism “creativity” or “freedom”, and called nakedness “fashion”. A young man would say, "I will not commit adultery, I will just go out with that girl and we will sit alone. I will not commit adultery, God Forbid!" In such a context the names are changed, and Shaytan starts to fix the wrong names in your mind until you yourself change.
The following verse from Surat Al-A'râf, can be translated as, "And he (Shaytân) swore by Allah to them both that he was their sincere adviser.” (TMQ, 7:21) (i.e. he falsely swore by Allah to them, which is the second sin committed after pride.) This in itself indicates that Adam did not respond directly to Shaytan, who tried more than once until he falsely swore [it was true]. However, with you, Shaytan does not need to swear to you to push you to commit sins because you respond right away. “Verily, I am one of the sincere well-wishers for you both." (TMQ, 7:21).
Adam and Hawwa’ had a pure nature; therefore, when they found Shaytan swearing by Allah, they could not imagine that there could be anyone who dares to swear by Allah falsely.
"So he misled them with deception…" (TMQ, 7:22) Shaytan started to push them gradually. Notice the beautiful Qur’anic expressions used to exemplify how Shaytan took gradual steps to humiliate them. Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified told them to keep away from the tree, but Shaytan told them to sit beside the tree. In other words, Shaytan will not suggest to you directly to drink alcohol, but will urge you to accompany someone who drinks. Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified, says in Surat Al-Baqarah (The Cow), "Satan misled them away from it" (TMQ, 2:36).
"Then when they tasted of the tree…” (TMQ, 7:22). The word "tasted" here makes clear that just tasting the tree’s fruit angered Allah. Hence, never say, "I will just ‘taste’ sin and will not [really] do it”. “…that which was hidden from them of their shame (private parts) became manifest to them" (TMQ, 7:22). Note how all the verses focus on the same meaning—private parts and nakedness—because this is a serious issue that will drive humanity to Hell. "And they began to cover themselves with the leaves of Paradise (in order to cover their shame)." (TMQ, 7:22). Adam and Hawwa’ ran to grab the leaves of the trees of Paradise to cover themselves. Do you see how shy they were? How do you dare look at nakedness through the Internet and satellite channels?
"And their Lord called out to them (saying): ‘Did I not forbid you that tree and tell you: Verily Shaytan is an open enemy unto you’" (TMQ, 7:22). Allah asked them, as He will do with us. What will your answer be when Allah calls you and asks, "Why did you do this? Why did you do that? Have not I prohibited you from doing this?"
On the Day of Judgment Allah, be He Exalted and Glorified, says, "O my slave! You underestimated meeting me. Have I been so insignificant to you, or have I not been watching your eyes when they were looking at the forbidden? Have I not been watching your lips when they were saying the forbidden? What mislead you from My path, my slave? What misled you from My path? O my slave! Read your book! “Did I not forbid you that tree and tell you: Verily Shaytan is an open enemy unto you” (TMQ, 7:22).
Here, at the end of my speech, I want to say that Adam and Hawwa’ were expelled from Paradise, and they didn't know what to do:
- Allah (SWT) said, "Are you running to escape from me Adam?"
- Adam replied, "No Allah, I am running because I’m ashamed of myself".
The main lessons learned from this lecture:
1. Beware of conceit.
2. Declare war against Shaytan and consider him your enemy.
3. Beware of the steps taken by Shaytan to control you, and resort to the eleven fortifications we mentioned.
Dear brother, your wife is your comfort. Dear sister, your husband is your comfort.
1) TMQ=Translation of the Meaning of the Qur'an. This translation is for the realized meaning, so far, of the stated (Surah:Ayah) of the Qur'an. Reading the translated meaning of the Qur'an can never replace reading it in Arabic, the language in which it was revealed.
2) Editor’s note: Often, with the stories of the Biblical Prophets, the scholars have used Isra’iliyat—stories or explanations that came to us through Jews and Christians who accepted Islam. These stories are neither found in the Qur’an nor in the Sunnah of the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) but may come from the Bible or oral traditions. The Isra’iliyat are only used to add detail to the prophets’ stories if they do not contradict the Qur’an or Sunnah. They will be cited in this text by either (Isra’iliyat) or (Isr.).
AmrKhaled.net
The Best Days of your life
The Best Days of your life
…at least for this year anwyay.
Allah SWT says in Surah Hajj verse 28:
لِيَشْهَدُوا مَنَافِعَ لَهُمْ وَيَذْكُرُوا اسْمَ اللَّهِ فِي أَيَّامٍ مَّعْلُومَاتٍ
That they may witness things that are of benefit to them, and mention the Name of Allah on appointed days ..
As ya all know, the 10 days of dhul hijjah are upon us, starting today. Everyone knows about Dhul Hijjah and how they are important and how Hajj was performed and for some reason millions of people just happen to all meet at the same place every year and seem to walk around a lot..
But do we all actually realise how great these days really are? These are the BEST 10 DAYS OF THE WHOLE YEAR, EVEN BETTER THAN RAMADAAN!* Out of 365 days in the year, these 10 are the best. You know how when ramadaan comes, we all feel an emaan boost and everyone suddenly becomes mr pious, well it should be like that in these 10 days to and if it doesnt feel like that, we have to recheck our emaan.
Ahmad and at-Tabarani record from Ibn ‘Umar that the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) said, “There is no day more honorable in Allaah’s sight and no acts more beloved therein to Allaah than those in these ten days. So say tahlil (There is no deity worthy of worship but Allaah : Laa ilaaha illallaah), takbir (Allaah is the greatest : Allaahu Akbar) and tahmid (All praise is due to Allaah : alhumdulillaah) a lot [on those days].” [Muslim]
Just like in ramadaan we fast, pray more, read more Quran, do more good deeds in general, likewise we should also try to do that in these 10 days insha’Allah. And many of our parents give qurbani back home or whatever, but we should also try if we can t give a sacrafice feesabililah, theres a great reward in it. And also a reminder to fast on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, that would as fasting on this day wipes out our sins for 2 years, the year before and the year coming.
* these 10 days are better than the last 10 days of ramadaan but the last 10 night if ramadaan are better as they contain laylatul qadr.
…at least for this year anwyay.
Allah SWT says in Surah Hajj verse 28:
لِيَشْهَدُوا مَنَافِعَ لَهُمْ وَيَذْكُرُوا اسْمَ اللَّهِ فِي أَيَّامٍ مَّعْلُومَاتٍ
That they may witness things that are of benefit to them, and mention the Name of Allah on appointed days ..
As ya all know, the 10 days of dhul hijjah are upon us, starting today. Everyone knows about Dhul Hijjah and how they are important and how Hajj was performed and for some reason millions of people just happen to all meet at the same place every year and seem to walk around a lot..
But do we all actually realise how great these days really are? These are the BEST 10 DAYS OF THE WHOLE YEAR, EVEN BETTER THAN RAMADAAN!* Out of 365 days in the year, these 10 are the best. You know how when ramadaan comes, we all feel an emaan boost and everyone suddenly becomes mr pious, well it should be like that in these 10 days to and if it doesnt feel like that, we have to recheck our emaan.
Ahmad and at-Tabarani record from Ibn ‘Umar that the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) said, “There is no day more honorable in Allaah’s sight and no acts more beloved therein to Allaah than those in these ten days. So say tahlil (There is no deity worthy of worship but Allaah : Laa ilaaha illallaah), takbir (Allaah is the greatest : Allaahu Akbar) and tahmid (All praise is due to Allaah : alhumdulillaah) a lot [on those days].” [Muslim]
Just like in ramadaan we fast, pray more, read more Quran, do more good deeds in general, likewise we should also try to do that in these 10 days insha’Allah. And many of our parents give qurbani back home or whatever, but we should also try if we can t give a sacrafice feesabililah, theres a great reward in it. And also a reminder to fast on the 9th of Dhul Hijjah, that would as fasting on this day wipes out our sins for 2 years, the year before and the year coming.
* these 10 days are better than the last 10 days of ramadaan but the last 10 night if ramadaan are better as they contain laylatul qadr.
Tongue
Keep Your Tongue....
And never use it except in the good pleasure of Allah as to enjoin doing good things and forbid doing bad things and calling for Allah.The tongue is a way to the Paradise or a way to the Fire ( Hell),so weigh your words and do your best so that your word is good as how many words led the One who said them to the Fire ( Hell) and how many words led the one who said them to the Paradise also!!
And never use it except in the good pleasure of Allah as to enjoin doing good things and forbid doing bad things and calling for Allah.The tongue is a way to the Paradise or a way to the Fire ( Hell),so weigh your words and do your best so that your word is good as how many words led the One who said them to the Fire ( Hell) and how many words led the one who said them to the Paradise also!!
Solaiman ( AS ) 1
In the previous lesson, we talked about Dawud (David) (AS), and concentrated on his worship, reverence and amazing devotion to Allah (SWT). We also agreed to follow a kind of recipe for good faith, a recipe that will boost our belief and help us get closer to Allah (SWT). Why do we need such a recipe?
We attend lectures all the time, and some of them are very interesting and touch us deep in our hearts, but only temporarily. People get deeply affected, and the story sticks to their minds for a couple of days, but it just vanishes after some time. The main purpose of studying all these stories is to link them to our current lives and time, the purpose they were mentioned for in the Qur’an! We want these stories to help us solve the problems we are facing as a Muslim nation, as these Prophets are meant to be our idols in life after all. Islam is the best solution to the troubles in all our societies, and it should not be dissolving away or unjustly misunderstood and forgotten; it should make a strong comeback to the World, proving to everybody the truth and simplicity that lies within it. Worshiping Allah (SWT) is not only through prayers, but also through acting and living like true Muslims 24 hours a day. Now what was that recipe we talked about last time? Here is a reminder of the steps:
1. Waking up half an hour before dawn.
2. Performing the ritual ablution or Wudu.
3. Praying two Rakaa’s (units of prayer) of Qiyam (night prayer) for ten minutes.
4. Reading some pages of the Holy Qur’an, going further and further each morning towards the end.
By following these four simple steps every morning, you are highly rewarded for two very important kinds of worship:
1. Performing Qiyam prayers.
2. Reading the Holy Qur’an during dawn, Allah’s (SWT) favorite time. During the last third of the night, Allah (SWT) descends with his magnificent grace to the first heaven, responding to his worshippers pleads for guidance, blessings, and forgiveness.
This is the best time to pray and seek forgiveness from Allah (SWT). Dua’a (supplication) is always accepted during this particular time and is never rejected. Those who seek forgiveness at that time will find themselves mentioned by Allah (SWT) in the Qur’an, in what can be translated as, “Those who pray for forgiveness in the early hours of the morning" (TMQ, Al- Imran:17)[1].
All of this is to be done before the fajr (dawn) prayer. After the Azan (The call for prayer), one should pray the two Rakaa’s of the fajr Sunnah (determined pre-dawn prayer). Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) describes the value of these two Rakaa’s as equivalent to the Muslim’s whole life and its beauties. Then perform the fajr prayer (in the mosque for the men) as it is one of the most precious compulsory prayers. It is in fact so precious that in the early days of Islam, the Prophet’s (PBUH) companions used to doubt that those who did not show up with a good excuse were becoming hypocrites.
After performing the fajr prayer, read some Dhikr (morning supplications) to seek protection from all kinds of evil throughout the day you are about to start. Allah (SWT) will not forget the Muslim that remembers Him with Dhikr, and helps this Muslim get quickly back on track if he sins that day.
Following this recipe, you will feel that your life is changing and becoming simpler and better. You become more relaxed, content, and concentrated on things such as studies or work; and will feel the satisfaction and pleasures of faith springing up within your heart stronger than ever before. Now that we have revised our recipe, we will continue with our series of stories, and begin with the story of Solaiman (AS).
Allah (SWT) granted Solaiman (PBUH) four splendid miracles, owing to his dua’a, “My Lord! I ask you to bestow upon me the greatest kingdom and power which existed and will ever exist, for you are the Bestower”. (TMQ, Saad:35).
Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said the following too, “While I was praying, Satan appeared to me in a certain form. When I was done, I caught him and tied him down to one of the poles in the mosque so that everyone can see him at the fajr prayer, but then I recalled my brother Solaiman’s dua’a, “My Lord! I ask you to bestow upon me the greatest kingdom and power which existed and will ever exist”, so I set him free” (Narrated by Al-Bukhari, Authentic).
Even though it was after thousands of years, the Prophet (PBUH) was very careful and considerate in not using any powers that were given to Solaiman (AS), keeping Solaiman’s powers as unique as the latter had wished them to be. Allah (SWT) granted the following four miracles exclusively to Solaiman (AS):
First miracle: Understanding bird language.
“Solaiman inherited (the knowledge of) Dawud, and said, “O mankind! We have been taught the language of birds, and everything has been bestowed upon us. This is verily an evident grace (from Allah).” (TMQ, Al-Naml:16). Solaiman (AS) had the ability to understand birds and insects when they talked amongst themselves, including their sound vibrations. What a great blessing granted to him by Allah (SWT)!
Let us compare this to later events in the history of mankind, as an indication of how great the civilizations of the Prophets actually were. When the Rosetta Stone was discovered and scientists in the West had finally cracked the language of the Pharaohs, a lot of commotion and publicity resulted! People were very proud and boasted their intelligence and ability to understand those symbols. Come to think about it, Prophet Solaiman (PBUH) had a much greater power and intelligence than any of them had. Did he boast about it and praise his own intelligence? No, he was very moderate and humble, never forgetting to thank Allah (SWT) for blessing him with that knowledge.
Some Westerners firmly believe that to progress in life, religion has to be separated from science and technology; assuming that these two “fields” do not coincide. Unfortunately, this matter is deeply rooted in some Muslims’ minds as well, despite its Western origin. Why is this so? The main reason is that the Westerners progressed rapidly with amazing discoveries when they separated the church from their scientific progress. However, our religion welcomes science; in fact they go hand in hand! We do not need to separate our religion from our everyday life to achieve scientific progress. On the contrary, implementing the religion correctly is the best path towards this progress. The first word that descended in our Qur’an was iqra’ (Read). The Holy Qur’an comprises of many verses that deal with the different human and natural sciences and emphasizes on the importance of seeking education and knowledge.
In Solaiman’s (PBUH) story, the invalidity of this conviction, which states that religion and science never go together, is proved clearly. It proves that being religious does not mean sitting in the mosques all day in isolation. This is clearly not what Islam recommends. Solaiman (AS) properly exploited his knowledge to obeying Allah (SWT) and to serving Islam. Consequently, Allah (SWT) granted him what He did not grant any other civilization. Examining history, we will find that humanity has witnessed only two civilizations that summoned the peaks of technology, prosperity and religion; those of Solaiman (AS) and Muhammad (PBUH).
Muhammad’s (PBUH) nation lived as a devoted, worshiping and spiritual nation since the beginning of Islam, and extending a great 1300 years. Yet, they also made amazing discoveries and advancements in science and technology. For instance, there is the science of Jarh (disparagement) and Ta’deel (attestation) discovered by Imam Bukhari, the science of Human Sociology by Ibn-Khaldun, Algebra was founded by Al-Khawarizmi and the Pulmonary Blood Circulation discovered by Ibn-Nafis. Do you realize the first astrological observatory was set up by the Muslims in Al-Andalus (Andalusia), for the purpose of monitoring the movements of planets?
Furthermore, the Muslims were the first to prove the roundness of the earth in an oval-shaped map made by Al-Idrisi. Ibn-Majid, the lion of the sea, is the one who discovered the ‘Cape of Good Hope’, and invented the Muslim geographical maps. Yet, can you believe that the Tatars threw books that belonged to the library of Baghdad [which was built by the Muslims and was incomparable with any other library today] in the rivers of Dejla and Furat (The Euphrates) in order to build a bridge for their horses to pass on? Can you imagine the number of books that were in that library? There were enough books to fill up both rivers and carry an army of horses over them!
In truth, Muslims only lost track of their flourishing civilization when they distanced themselves from their religion. Solaiman’s (AS) civilization is a clear lesson for us not to be impressed by modern civilizations. It warns us that building a civilization, by moving away from Islam, is not the right solution. Let’s consider Russia, for example. It was one of the first to reach the moon, but where is it now? The Russian Empire collapsed and is gone! You can easily criticize the regime itself as being the cause of this failure in Russia, but the problems that faced the Islamic empire were different. You cannot find a flaw in Islam itself, and the flaw was only in the people that did not live up to it.
Second miracle: The subjugation of Jinn and Devils
They were all made to obey Solaiman (AS). Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And also the devils from the jinn, including the builders and divers, along with others bound in fetters.” (TMQ, Saad: 37, 38).
People are misled to believe that the Jinn are capable of doing everything, so they move away from Allah (SWT) and turn to them for help. Here are the Jinn that Allah (SWT) created for Solaiman (PBUH); some were builders and others were divers that extracted pearls from the oceans and the seas. Why did Allah (SWT) grant Solaiman (PBUH) all these blessings and miracles? The answer is that Solaiman (AS) wanted to use these blessings for the sake of reviving this religion and not for personal pleasures. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "Amongst them are men who made a pact with Allah, that if He bestowed on them some of His bounty, they would be generous in charity, and be truly amongst those who are righteous. But when He did bestow of His bounty, they became covetous, and turned back (from their pact), averse (from its fulfillment). So He has put as a consequence Hypocrisy into their hearts, to last till the Day when they shall meet Him: because they broke their pact with Allah, and because they lied (again and again)" (TMQ, At-Tawba:75 - 77).
Do they not realize that Allah (SWT) knows what is inside their hearts and knows their innermost secrets? If you ask Allah (SWT) to grant you money with a genuine intension of using it for supporting this religion and doing good, then He will surely give you what you have asked for. I myself have seen many examples of this in my personal life. The problem facing the majority of people is that their real intention is to use these blessings to achieve personal satisfaction. What they do is consider solely themselves, their homes and their children. It is not wrong to consider one’s self, but serving Islam should always be the priority, and doing that will automatically serve all the other purposes one seeks like a happy home and family, for himself and his brother Muslims. Who else can devise for us such a perfect way of life than He who created life itself?
As long as we marginalize Islam and do not realize its greatness, our enemies will not appreciate it either and they will marginalize it even further. When we trivialize Islam, others will trivialize us. How do we expect Islam to grow and become powerful if we ourselves cannot make it grow and be powerful in our own eyes and apply it to our lives? What will that leave for the non-Muslims who see us as examples? We are ambassadors for our religion and carry its burden. The worst thing we can do is to make it look bad and give others a bad impression about it.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And there are jinn that worked for him (Solaiman), by his Lord’s permission. And those of them that disobeyed Our command, they shall taste the torment of the blazing Fire. They worked for him as he desired, building high-walled rooms, images, basins as large as reservoirs, and cauldrons fixed in their places. Work you, O family of Dawud, and be grateful, as there are only a few of My slaves that are grateful.” (TMQ, Saba’:12 - 13).
The high-walled rooms are mosques, and the idols and images were not prohibited at that time. A basin is an enormous container that an entire village can eat from, and the cooking cauldrons were fixed like huge buildings, mounted upon stone poles raising them from below. Solaiman (AS) used Jinn to spread Islam, not to cause harm, evil or raise superstitions. Some people nowadays seek refuge in Jinn, but it only causes them more suffering and torment. People should turn only to Allah (SWT) in times of hardship, and turning to anyone or anything else is failing one of the tests of this life.
Third miracle: The subjugation of wind
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “We subjected to him (Solaiman) the wind; it blew gently by his order wherever he willed.” (TMQ, Saad:36).
Solaiman (AS) used to order the wind around. He would direct the clouds over thirsty lands to help feed the Muslims, and improve their crops. When it came to fighting with Allah’s (SWT) enemies, he had a gigantic, wooden, rug-like transporter made to carry his army of Jinns, humans, birds, tigers, lions, eagles and all sorts of animals that fought under his command. It was an amazing army, with all these creatures helping him radar the lands around him. The wind would carry this rug to wherever he pleased, carrying this army across vast distances. Have you heard of anything so extraordinary?
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And to Solaiman We subjected the wind, its morning was a month’s journey, and its afternoon was another month’s journey (i.e. in one day he could travel two months’ journey in distance).” (TMQ, Saba’:12).
The distance normally covered in a month was covered by Solaiman (AS) and his soldiers in a couple of hours. Do you believe this? If this story was to be narrated to the western society, would they believe it or would we be accused of insanity? We will always have faith that Allah (SWT) is the sole owner and creator of everything in this universe, and the strong believers are clearly mentioned in the Holy Qur’an, in what can be translated as, “Those who believe in the Ghaib (unseen things).” (TMQ, Al-Baqara:3).
Hence, we are believers, as our ancestors were. Can you picture the Prophet’s (PBUH) companions and their solid belief while they were listening to this verse more than a thousand years ago? What a strong faith they must have had! We have seen planes, rockets, and submarines in action. We think we have seen it all! This should be more reason for us to believe that such means of fast transportation can be possibly created using the resources on Earth. The Qur’an’s numerous miracles are sufficient enough for Muslims to believe blindly in everything it states. Many miracles of the Qur’an have been proven throughout history, and the remaining unexplained miracles are left there for every generation as a test of their blind faith.
Why stop at the miracle of Solaiman’s (SWT) miraculous speed? Consider how strongly our Prophet’s (PBUH) companions believed him when he told them about his night journey from Makkah to Al-Quds (Jerusalem) riding the Buraq. Upon reaching Al-Quds, he was ascended to the seventh heaven until he reached Sidrat Al-Muntaha (The Lote Tree of the Utmost Boundary) and ultimately, returned to Makkah from Al-Quds; all within less than a night. When Quraysh heard about Muhammad’s (PBUH) journey, they went to inform Abu-Bakr (RA), mockingly challenging his belief. Abu-Bakr (RA) did not hesitate for a moment in affirming what the Prophet (PBUH) told and said his famous words: “I believe him in things even beyond that: I believe that his miracles come from the skies even while he is sitting among us”. Since then, the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) called him Al-Sidiq (the believer). In conclusion, the stronger our faith in Islam, the stronger Allah (SWT) makes us and the higher Allah (SWT) raises us and the more problems he solves for us. It is also an important aspect of this religion to be successful in life, and advanced in science and technologies, as this will not only benefit us personally but also socially by reflecting positively on the image of Islam and Muslims.
Fourth miracle: The Subjugation of Metals.
“And We made a fount of molten brass flow for him.” (TMQ, Saba’: 12).
Another of the great miracles Allah (SWT) bestowed upon Solaiman (AS). He used the brass to manufacture different equipment and weapons to make the Muslims more powerful. His intention was forming a strong nation, to fight for spreading the name of Allah, and not for personal influence. This shows how the Muslims should use their resources wisely, and always in good intention.
But why wasn’t our Prophet (PBUH) given miracles as such, provided that he was the leader of all Prophets and all mankind? Very simply, Allah (SWT) wanted Muhammad’s (PBUH) miracle to be even greater than the four miracles of Solaiman (AS). Let us pause here and remember that miracle:
Muhammad (PBUH) was sent to a tribe who worshiped idols, buried girls alive, practiced filthy actions and ignited violent wars for periods that lasted for decades at a time. Under Islam, the same people became the most remarkable Ummah in the entire history of mankind, and led the world into peace and prosperity for a period extending over 1300 years; an accomplishment that neither jinn, wind nor metal could have achieved.
Harun Al-Rashid used to look at the clouds, ponder, and say, “Rain anywhere you desire, because wherever you rain, your benefits will reach the Muslims”. Back then, the Muslims ruled such a vast territory that if the people in any land were not Muslims, the Muslims would benefit from these lands through the payment of Jizyah (a tax paid to the ruling Muslims by non-Muslim countries, which were allowed the freedom of keeping their own religions under the protection of an Islamic empire).
Despite all the miracles granted to Solaiman (AS), he also had his share of suffering. He was afflicted with a severe disease and consequently was unable to move. The point that Allah (SWT) wishes to make to us is that being blessed with great things does not rule out the possibility of suffering hardships. Solaiman (AS), as all are people, was put through hardships; only as a reminder for humankind that the power is not completely in their hands, and also as a test for their patience and faith.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And indeed, We did test Solaiman by placing a Jasad on his throne, and he did return (to Allah with obedience and in repentance, and to his throne and kingdom by the Grace of Allah).” (TMQ, Saad:34). Jasad is the Arabic word for the human body, indicating that the illness was so severe that it seemed like he was just a body lying on the throne, without the ability to even move. Solaiman (PBUH) was patient, and he passed this test, regaining his health and power later on.
Another thing about Solaiman (AS) is that he used to adore watching horses. One day, while he was so busy watching them, he missed the afternoon prayer. To discipline his soul, and prove his priorities to himself and to Allah (SWT), he donated all those horses for charity and jihad (Holy War).
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And to Dawud We gave Solaiman. How excellent a slave! Verily, he was ever oft returning in repentance! When they were displayed before him, in the afternoon, the well trained horses of the highest breed, he said, "I preferred this action (watching the horses) over my duty of remembering my Lord (in my ‘Asr prayer), till the time had ran out, and the sun had hidden in the veil of night. Then he said "Bring them (the horses) back to me.” Then he began to pass his hand over their legs and their necks (i.e. he was checking them and recommending them for being used in the army for jihad, indicating his new intentions).” (TMQ, Saad: 30 - 33).
He prepared the horses himself, washed them well and chose the best ones to be sent for jihad.
Allah (SWT) did not only grant Solaiman (AS) an ability to rule and to judge rationally, but also blessed him with better judgment than his father Dawud (AS), sometimes passing more rational verdicts with an amazing degree of wisdom.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And remember Dawud and Solaiman, when they were judges in the case of the field where the sheep had pastured at night; and We were indeed witnesses to their judgment. We gave Solaiman the understanding; and to both of them We gave Hukm (right judgment of the affairs) and knowledge.” (TMQ, Al-Anbiya’:78 -79).
The story is about a dispute that occurred between two neighbors, so they asked Dawud (AS) to judge between them. One owned a piece of land, which he cultivated and lived off, while the other owned some sheep. One night, the second man forgot to lock his barn door properly; as a result, the sheep ate the landowner’s harvest. Dawud's (AS) verdict was that the landowner would take the sheep and benefit from their milk as a payback for the lost harvest. This was a fair judgment, but Solaiman (AS) later met the two men and came up with a more just judgment. He said that the landowner would take the sheep and benefit from them, thus not overruling his father’s verdict, but adding that the other would also take the land and plant it until it harvests, after which they would exchange and get back their properties.
Allah (SWT) mentions this story in the Qur’an to teach us how to use our intelligence, stressing on the importance of cleverness for the Muslim. The idea that the religious person is not required to have any wisdom nor intelligence is completely untrue.
Another example worth mentioning in this context is that narrated by Al-Bukhari, describing another incident that shows Solaiman’s wisdom: Two women went to Dawud (AS) after fighting over a baby. The truth was that the older woman's baby had died, so she had kidnapped the younger woman's child. Both women claimed that the baby was theirs. Dawud (AS) considered the older woman as more truthful because she had more convincing arguments than the younger woman, and gave her the right of custody. Solaiman (AS) then came into the picture and said, "If you two continue arguing, we shall cut the infant in half, one half for each of you.” And as he prepared to do so and was raising the knife, the younger woman yelled: "Let him live, he is hers, I don’t want him!”. "You are his real mother", concluded Solaiman (AS).
A further example of wise judgment between Muslims is that with Ali Ibn Abu-Talib (RA). A lion had fallen into an empty well in the city of Kufah. The entire Kufah population gathered to watch this scene! With all the commotion, a man fell into the well and held on to another man dragging him down with him. The second man pulled yet a third one and the third pulled a fourth. Ultimately, the lion ate them all. The diyah (blood money) at that time was a hundred camels per person, but it was quite hard to agree on how the money should be paid in this situation. Ali Ibn Abu-Talib came up with the following verdict:
- The first person’s diyah would be twenty-five camels because he was responsible for the death of the other three.
- The second fifty camels as he killed two other men.
- The third seventy-five camels because he killed one person, and
- Nothing for the fourth person, as he didn’t pull anyone with him to the well.
Who was going to pay the money now? Everyone that was there, because they were all held responsible! This verdict saw through the complication of the situation, and everybody agreed that it was fair. Not only were the families compensated fairly, but also the people learned how to care for one another and be responsible for the whole group.
Now back to Solaiman (AS). Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And indeed We gave knowledge to Dawud and Solaiman, and they both said, "All the praises and thanks be to Allah, Who has chosen us from among many of His believing slaves!" (TMQ, Al-Naml:15).
This verse indicates the importance of knowledge. Knowledge is a gift, and a powerful tool that we should seek. The story of Solaiman (PBUH) makes us reflect back at ourselves. I wonder if there are any of us who really seek knowledge for the sake of it? I wonder how many people invest their free time in reading more and educating themselves in the fields that they are interested in? I wonder how many students read beyond the recommended textbooks in their university courses? And those who did graduate from universities already, do they take their field seriously or just pass the hours at their jobs? Do they seek continuous improvement and excellence? I am surprised at the very few number we find doing these things. How can it be possible for the Ummah of iqra’ no longer reads nor craves for knowledge? What happened, and when did we become so careless? Most of the technology and science in our current time is credited to the non-Muslim West. Why is that? If you look for reasons and incentives, our incentive is clearly stated in our faith and history! What incentive is stronger than that? Do you know that, in England in railway trains, almost every passenger has a book, newspaper, or magazine to read? You hardly find anyone waiting for a train while staring into empty space. Do we have so much free time that we can afford wasting most of our time, or are our brains saturated with knowledge already?
We must start to read and learn, not for the sake of getting a certificate that ends up being framed on the wall, but for the sake of knowledge itself. The only way to improve and become powerful is through education and smart minds, and if we become powerful, this reflects on Islam and gives it the glory it deserves. Islam stressed so much on seeking knowledge and learning only because Allah (SWT) knows how important this is to have a just, loveable, and powerful Muslim nation.
If our Ummah were to devote itself to worshipping and praying alone, Islam would neither progress nor would it benefit. On the contrary, it will diminish. We should not only concentrate our studying on religious sciences but also on other aspects such as: natural sciences, foreign languages, or modern technologies. Everyone has an interest in a certain field, and being a Muslim should not stand between them and that field. The taste of knowledge is sweet, and it is a gift we have as humans; a gift that was given for a reason. One should be equally literate in religion as well as other sciences.
The Prophet’s (PBUH) following Hadith proves this, “Indeed, Allah and his Angels, the occupants of the earth and the heavens, even the ant in her house and the whales, are praising the teacher of good knowledge”. (Narrated by al-Albany, Sahih At-Tirmidhi, 2161).
Imagine if you taught people how to recite the Holy Qur’an or how to use a computer, with a genuine intention of serving Islam. You can reach a level where even the ants and the fish will be mentioning your name in their prayers and asking Allah (SWT) for your forgiveness. Now how many prayers does that count for?
The Prophet (PBUH) said, “The distinction between an educated Muslim and an uneducated Muslim is as big as that between me and the weakest Muslim amongst you”. (Narrated by al-Albany, Islah al-Masajid, 126).
The message here is clear enough and beyond discussion. The Prophet (PBUH) did not advise us to only seek prayers and forget our education and intellect. Islam is not about isolating yourself in worship, but dividing your time equally between all aspects of life, taking the best out of everything. What else could one of us want? Islam shows us the correct way of life, and teaches us not to be extreme. Muslims are required to pray and surrender to Allah (SWT). Muslims are also required to take care of themselves and lead happy lives. Being a true Muslim does not mean giving up the good things in life. On the contrary, it helps us understand life and makes these good things even better!
Back to our story:
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And gathered before Solaiman were his soldiers of jinn, men, and birds, and they were all set for battle” (TMQ, Al-Naml:17).
All pairs were gathered, a controlled and a designed army. Imagine that the army of Islam once involved birds, jinn and men. Look at the power Islam had. It just makes you feel so proud, doesn’t it? “Till, when they came to the valley of the ants, one of the ants said, "O you ants! Enter your dwellings, lest Solaiman and his hosts should crush you, without knowing it.” (TMQ, Al-Naml:18).
This ant, which spoke when Solaiman (PBUH) was passing her valley, deserves some praise. Scholars have agreed that this ant is extremely fluent! In one sentence, it combined six tools from the Arabic language. Of course this miracle is meant for those who know the Arabic language well, with its extreme diversity of grammar and grammatical tools. The six tools in the sentence are:
1. O: It called.
2. You ants! : It warned.
3. Enter: It commanded.
4. Lest Solaiman crush you: It forbade.
5. His hosts: It generalized.
6. While they perceive not: it apologized.
There is another point to consider. Do you see the positive side of that ant that loved its tribe and cared about saving them? This is a message to all the selfish and pessimistic people, who do not care about others. We are all responsible for spreading goodness, and speaking up in the face of wrong.
When someone lights a cigarette by our side for example, and we are bothered about it, we should not just remain silent and not do anything about it. When someone curses our religion in public, we should not just pass by without any reaction. That would be selfish and these bad habits will spread to even bigger boundaries. Brothers and sisters, I am not asking you to pick fights with people you meet doing wrong along the street. I am only asking that you give them some friendly advice; an advice that they might remember one day and think about. Hardly anybody is convinced if a harsh tone is used, and the problem will just become bigger. We must learn to be positive, and feel responsible for our society and not only for ourselves.
Do you remember a situation where you were supposed to spring up to help, but instead, you were content as a negative responder and a mere by-stander? Later on, you would find your conscious beating you in the back of the head! How often did this scenario happen to you?
I stress again that is not a call for rebellion and violence. Stay away from violence, but do not hesitate to spring to action and to talk to wrongdoers pleasantly with faith and sweet words. Do not just stand there.
A person I knew flew once with an Arabic airline and was surprised when they started serving wine during the flight. Did he jump out of his seat in the middle of the flight, scream his head off, and give a religious lecture? Certainly not! In a civilized manner, he asked for a paper and a pen, wrote a kind complaint and submitted it to the stewardess. This was certainly better than doing nothing about it, or acting too emotionally.
The Prophet (PBUH) said, “You shall enjoin good, and abstain from the wrong, or Allah will punish you, and not answer your Dua’a” (Narrated by al-Albany, Mishkat al-Masabeeh, 5068). Therefore, a Muslim who leads a perfect, sinless life full of prayers and good deeds will still be punished, unless he helps others and cares about his whole society.
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Solaiman ( AS ) 2
Allah (SWT)[1] says what can be translated as, “So he smiled broadly, laughing at its speech, and said, “Lord! Dispense me to thank (You) for Your favor wherewith You have favored me and (both) my parents, and to do righteousness that satisfies You, and cause me to enter by Your mercy, among Your righteous bondmen.” (TMQ, 27:19)[2]
Imagine our prophet Solaiman’s expression while listening to the vibrations of the ant's voice. The very concept is, without doubt, a great blessing; how had the ant recognized Solaiman (AS)? We have learned in the previous lecture (in Solaiman I) that those who command good, guide people, invite to Allah's path, and call for reform are recognized by the whole universe.
Nevertheless, why did he laugh? Notice the meticulous character of the Qur’anic expression in describing how he gradually smiled until he started laughing. He smiled because Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as (the ant saying), “(while) they are not aware.” (TMQ, 27:18). The ant knew, by instinct, that a Muslim army could not exterminate a population of ants unjustly because a Muslim army was pure and virtuous. Solaiman (AS) laughed because he realized how the whole universe recognized that Muslims were God-fearing; they did not act irrationally. Observe the nature of Solaiman’s character. What delights and moves him most is nothing but a religious triumph. An extremely significant meaning can be noted here; is it possible to claim that Islam is a source of terror and injustice when it does not allow harming even a single ant?
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "… and said, “Lord! Dispense me to thank (You) for Your favor wherewith You have favored me…” (TMQ, 27:19). This, very simply, means: ‘O Allah, make me assemble all my might, my potentials, my mental power, my whole existence, and all that I have in order to thank You.’
Do any of us possess this dignifying feeling of thanking Allah (SWT) for all His blessings? Dawud (AS) (David) had also asked it formerly, “My Lord, how can I thank you, when thanking You is by itself a blessing which deserves thanks?” Allah (SWT) answered, “Dawud, you have thanked Me by acknowledging that.” Is there any one who is pre-occupied with thanking Allah (SWT), who sits counting some of Allah's blessings, and who is so moved that he cries affectionately, “Allah, how can I express my gratitude when You have endowed me with so and so and blessed me with so and so?” Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Indeed in case you thank (Him), indeed I will definitely increase you "(TMQ, 14:7). The more you thank Allah (SWT), the more He grants you; if you want to enhance your talent, intellect, financial status, etc., thank Allah (SWT), use that blessing in his obedience, and engage your service to content Him, and He will bestow upon you with more blessings. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Do (righteousness), House of Dawûud, in thankfulness; and few of My bondmen are constantly thankful” (TMQ, 34:13). I am deeply affected every time I hear these words. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as “Lord! Dispense me to thank (You)” (TMQ, 27:19). At the end of the ayah (verse), Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as (Solaiman (AS) saying), “… and cause me to enter by Your mercy, among Your righteous bondmen.” (TMQ, 27:19). Solaiman (AS) is asking Allah (SWT) to include him with His righteous slaves even though he is in fact, a pioneer.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "And he reviewed the birds; then he said, “what is it with me that I do not see the hoopoe? Or is he among the absent?” (TMQ, 27:20). Solaiman (AS) had a habit of queuing his army, which was composed of multiple creatures, so that it was always alert and on the defence. He searched, but could not find the hoopoe; indeed, it requires sharpness to recognize that one hoopoe was absent out of so many (one amusing interpretation by some scholars, though, not supported by evidence, was that the hoopoe’s wings used to block the sun’s heat from Solaiman (AS)). What is the story and where is the hoopoe?
The hoopoe knew the time for the morning assembly; he was flying and picking out his means of living while preparing for the gathering. Being a respectable soldier, he was aware of the time. However, while soaring at a great altitude, he observed some people prostrating to the sun. He wondered what to do: should he fly back that great distance from Yemen, where those people were, to Palestine, where Solaiman (AS) was in order to arrive on time for the morning assembly. Should he stay and check this disaster? Finally, his positivism took over and he did not accept lining up, flapping his wings, and leaving this matter behind without bringing its details.
“I have to hurry and warn those people before they are severely punished!” he thought. He flew to Yemen, omitting the assembly, and began watching those people. He looked for further details until he saw a woman governing them.
This is for all those who are not concerned with guiding people: we are not just relating stories. Each of us should be deeply concerned about Islam. Only then will we find the contemporary condition of Muslims improving, as well as a better amendment of the whole universe. This is much better than each of us living for himself; if you take another person’s hands, you will develop into a stronger person day by day and you will not be alone. Pious companions will surround you. Brothers and sisters, the hoopoe had protectiveness for Islam and positivism, and he was preoccupied with an important issue, not just plain talk. Allah (SWT) is recounting this so that we may feel ashamed for any responsibility we fail to hold for our religion. It is not a question of religious lectures; the whole issue of religion must fill up your heart and become the essence of your existence.
The hoopoe flew back, but Solaiman (AS) had threatened to punish him because he was very late, contrary to the character of a Muslim army. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "And he reviewed the birds; then he said, “What is it with me that I do not see the hoopoe? Or is he among the absent? Indeed I will definitely torment him with a strict torment or indeed I will definitely slay him, or indeed he should definitely come up to me with an evident, all-binding authority." (TMQ, 27:20-21).
Imagine the immense effort the hoopoe undertook as he flew back and forth and compare it to being too lazy to address your neighbour residing next to you about Islam.
When the rest of the birds saw the hoopoe they warned him that Solaiman (AS) would harm him by plucking his feathers. Did he waver? I want you to imagine the scene. Allah (SWT) says, about the hoopoe, what can be translated as, “Yet he stayed (a while) without being far away, then said, “I have encompassed that which you have not encompassed, and I have come from Saba to you with a tiding of certitude." (TMQ, 27:22) He stayed close to Solaiman (AS), firmly rooted and unshaken, and imparted to him words that would be recited until the Day of Judgment. Such words are not issued except from one who is faithful to his religion, bearing jealousy for Islam, and having self-confidence.
The hoopoe continued his story, Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Surely I found a woman ruling over them, and she has been brought (much) of everything, and she has a magnificent throne.” (TMQ, 27:23). He holds the tiniest details. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as "I found her and her people prostrating to the sun, apart from Allah; and Ash-Shaytan (The ever-vicious, i.e., the Devil) has adorned (i.e., made attractive) their deeds to them, so has barred them from the way, so that they are not guided, So that they do not prostrate (themselves) to Allah, Who brings out what is hidden in the heavens and the earth. And He knows whatever you conceal and whatever you make public." (TMQ, 27:24-25). Note his jealousy for Islam! Is there any of us whose blood boils because of his concern for Islam on behalf of his relatives, his friends, etc.? He mentions “what is hidden,” indicating his foodstuff concealed beneath the vegetation, his love for Allah (SWT) is connected with his source of sustenance, ‘Allah is the One who feeds me, he acknowledges.’ Our sustenance is also in the hands of Allah (SWT). Learn from the hoopoe! He knows it is not the proficiency of his beak that brings out the seeds; it is Allah's grace, which makes it possible, “knows whatever you conceal and whatever you make public.” When he mentioned the hidden, he also mentioned the concealed intentions in our hearts, which only Allah (SWT) knows. He had noted the queen's throne, “she has a magnificent throne” but he remembered that her throne was worthless in comparison to Allah's throne. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as “Allah, there is no god except He, The Lord of the Magnificent Throne.” (TMQ, 27:26). By Allah (SWT), we need loads of hoopoes like this one!
We pause here at some intriguing connotations in the ayahs. The Qur’an is not restricted in its meanings and does not expire, no matter how often you turn to it; its wonders do not end for it is Allah's words on Earth. In those words, we come across great values like the traits of a successful leader. What attributes in one’s personality can make one a successful leader in an institution, school, hospital, etc.?
1. A successful leader checks on his employees and inquires about them. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "And he reviewed the birds”(TMQ 27:20)
2. He must not be hasty or reckless. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as “what is it with me that I do not see the hoopoe? Or is he among the absent?" (TMQ 27:20). If he had assumed quickly that the hoopoe was not there and threatened to punish him, the hoopoe could have been there, but Solaiman (AS) could not see him.
3. He must be resolute. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as , “Indeed I will definitely torment him with a strict torment or indeed I will definitely slay him, or indeed he should definitely come up to me with an evident, all-binding authority." (TMQ 27:21) No leader should be indecisive or else calamity would pervade throughout the army.
4. He must be objective and fair-minded. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “or indeed he should definitely come up to me with an evident, all-binding authority.” (TMQ 27:21)
5. He must be a good-listener. If the hoopoe had not known that, he would have escaped, but he stayed near-by.
The Qur’an also teaches us the virtues of a good employee:
1- Positivism: a Muslim employee should not simply go to work in the morning and come back home in the evening without thinking of ways to innovate progress.
2- Self-confidence: very important and we can sense it from what Allah (SWT) says and can be translated as, “without being far away” (TMQ 27:22).
3- The ability to categorize priorities: one matter is more important than another. Solaiman (AS) understood that what the hoopoe did was the right thing, for if he had lined-up with the others, he would not have been able to direct Solaiman (AS) to the transgressed tribe.
4- Accuracy in recounting information. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "I have come from Saba to you with a tiding of certitude." (TMQ, 27:22)
A comprehensive and magnificent skill of administration is given here.
Allah (SWT) says, what can be translated as, "He said, “We will soon look whether you have (spoken) sincerely or whether you are among the liars. Go with this book (i.e., letter) of mine, then cast it to them; thereafter turn away from them, (and) so look what (answer) they return.” (TMQ, 27:27-28). Why the hoopoe? It would have been possible to assign this task to anyone else, but Solaiman (AS) wanted the hoopoe to have the full reward, since he was the one who brought the matter into light. He said, “… thereafter turn away from them” so that the hoopoe would not eavesdrop - observe the manners! “(and) so look what (answer) they return” indicates that he was to stay at a distance and bring back their news.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "She said, “O you chiefs, surely an honorable book has been cast to me. Surely it is from Solaiman, (Solomon) and surely it is in The Name of Allah, The All-Merciful, The Ever-Merciful. That “You should not exalt yourselves against me, and come up to me as Muslims.” (Or: in surrender).” (TMQ, 27:29-31)
Clearly, she did not want to fight and was paving the way for peace. The letter she received was composed of four words (in Arabic): Don’t remain arrogant and submit to Allah (SWT). It is alleged that the first to write, “In the name of Allah, the All-Merciful, the Ever-Merciful,” in a letter was Solaiman (AS).
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “She said, “O you chiefs, pronounce to me concerning my command; in no way have I affirmed (Literally: cutting) a command until you bear witness.” (TMQ, 27:32). It is evident that she was a rational woman and the Qur’an has proven that she was a woman of sense and awareness of consultation. We find here an extremely significant meaning: Islam does not view women as feeble-minded. The Hadith, where it was reported that the Prophet (SAWS)[3] said, addressing women, “… I have not seen anyone more deficient in intelligence and religion than you” (The complete version of this Hadith is in Sahih Bukhari, Volume 1, Book 6, Number 301) only means that the decrease in her religion is in the quantity during her menstruation, whereas, the decrease in her mind or judgment is because Allah (SWT) has bestowed her with excess emotion, which sometimes overcomes her judgment. However, this does not mean that women are incapable of thinking or fair judgment. Here is the Qur’an, proving to us that this queen was intelligent, and of sound and sophisticated thoughts. There are also various incidences throughout history confirming the cleverness and high-quality sense of women.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “They said, “We are endowed with power, and we are endowed with strict violence, (i.e., we are strong and able to fight) and the command (rests) with you; so look into what you command (us).” (TMQ, 27:33).
It seems that they were inclined to fight, but they left the matter to her. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “She said, “Surely, kings, when they enter a town, do corruption in it and make the mighty ones of its population humiliated. And thus they (too) will perform (similarly).” (TMQ, 27:34). She was more prone to conciliatory means, which defines her femininity and rational disposition. She composed a plan to determine whether he was a prophet, or a king eager for her empire. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "And surely I am sending to them a present, so I am waiting to look into what the emissaries return with.” (TMQ, 27:35). “I will send a gift: if he is a worldly man he will accept it and the whole matter will end, but if he is a religious man and rejects the gift and insists on his call to Allah, then we will not fight him.” What can one think of the mentality of this woman?
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "So, as soon as he (the envoy) came to Solaiman, (Solomon) he said, “Would you supply me with wealth? Then what Allah has brought me is more charitable (i.e., better) than what He has brought you. No indeed, (but) you exult with your present. Return to them. So indeed we will definitely come up against them with hosts they cannot withstand (Literally: of no withstanding). Indeed, we will definitely drive them out there from humiliated, and they will be (utterly) belittled.” (TMQ, 27:36-37). She sent him an envoy with a magnificent gift. When he saw this, Solaiman (AS) said, “What Allah has granted me of prophet-hood, religion, knowledge, miracles is much better than what He provided you, but you are only too pleased with worldly gifts.” Observe the honour of Islam in the words of the ayahs: He would send a great army because He had insisted on his concepts. This sagacious woman decided to go out herself to meet him and apologize. She commanded a delegation to be prepared. When news reached Solaiman (AS) that she was coming to meet him, he realized that she was a wise woman and did not dispatch his army. However, he wished to overwhelm her with Islamic civilization and technology.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "He said, “O you chiefs, whichever one of you will come up to me with (i.e., bring) her throne before they come up to me as Muslims?” (Or: in surrender).” (TMQ, 27:38). That is so that when she first arrived she would see her throne. He was not doing this out of conceit (Allah (SWT)-forbid) but only to ascertain Islamic power and civilization. If you do not possess the means (skill, language, talent, etc.) to impress people in order to draw them to the progressiveness Islam offers, they will not be drawn nor convinced. He did not want to impress her with words, but with real evidence of the supremacy of Muslims and the glory of Islamic civilization. This takes us back to the importance of knowledge and technology.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as,"A Ifrit (i.e., powerful, stalwart) of the jinn said, “I will come up with it to you before you rise up from your station; and surely I am indeed powerful for it (and) trustworthy." (TMQ, 27:39). Solaiman (AS) was accustomed to assemble with the people for giving legal opinion and judgment. A jinni said he could bring that throne before Solaiman (AS) got up from that council. Solaiman (AS), however, was not satisfied with that: Muslims possessed higher technology than this.
Who amongst those who keep regular prayers in the mosque rank among the highest in high school or college? What kind of unique achievement will the religious Muslim woman, dressed in an Islamic way, offer? Does becoming religious define an endpoint? Indeed, it is only the commencement of success in this world, but most people do not understand.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "Said he in whose presence was knowledge of the Book, “I will come up with it (i.e., bring) to you before your glance returns on you.” (i.e., in the twinkling of an eye).” (TMQ, 27:40) Who was it who had this knowledge? It was not Solaiman (AS); the Qur’an would have informed us if this were the case. Scholars of Qur’anic exegesis have differing opinions: some say it was a man who knew the Great name of Allah (SWT), though there is no real evidence. It seems that Allah (SWT) may occasionally let some of His creatures on secrets unknown to prophets like the story of al-Khidr in (Surat al-Kahf). There may be some people among us who see in their dreams universal events which may come true. If one happens to be one of those, then he should know that it is a gift from Allah (SWT)- thank Him and do not use it in wrongdoing.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Then, as soon as he saw it secured in position in his presence, he (Solaiman) said, “This is of the Grace of my Lord that He may try me, whether I thank (Him) or be ungrateful. And whoever thanks (Him), then surely he thanks only for his (own) self, and whoever is ungrateful, (Or: whoever disbelieves) then surely my Lord is Ever-Affluent, (Literally: Ever-Wealthy, Ever-Rich) Ever-Honorable.” (TMQ, 27:40). Suddenly, he had found the throne in front of him, so he thanked Allah (SWT). As you may have noticed, Solaiman (AS) used to thank Allah (SWT) for all His blessings. In the Qur’an, thanking and gratitude are mentioned hand in hand. Whoever thanks will be the one to benefit because Allah (SWT) is self-sufficient and does not need our thanks.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "He said, “Disguise her throne for her, that we may look into whether she is guided, or she is of the ones who are not guided.” (TMQ, 27:41). The throne contained jewellery and gold. Solaiman (AS) ordered that the ornaments of this jewellery be changed to test her intelligence. If she proved to be intelligent, it would be easy for her to embrace Islam; the mind is drawn to it. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "So, as soon as she came, it was said, “Is your throne just like this?” She said, “(It is) as though it were the (very) one.” (TMQ, 27:42).
She seemed to be intelligent, for she neither confirmed nor denied. Notice how Allah (SWT) combined knowledge and Islam. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And (Solaiman) (Solomon) said, “We were brought the knowledge before her, and we were Muslims.” (i.e., we surrendered ‘to Allah’). (TMQ, 27:42) She, however, persisted on disbelieving. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "And what she used to worship, apart from Allah, barred her (from belief); (for) surely she was of a disbelieving people." (TMQ, 27:43). Her pride was a barrier and the fact that she was a queen.
Solaiman (AS) wanted to give her another chance: he would overwhelm her with greater technology that had not arrived yet, not even in the twenty-first century! Brothers, it is inevitable that we should possess industrial pre-eminence and that we are keen on the enhancement of our nation so that amongst us will emerge the best computer engineer or the best parable writer in the world, for example.
Therefore, strive hard, young people. Disbelievers will not pay attention to one who prays a great deal. They will be influenced and believe if, besides spiritualism and faith, we also advance in knowledge.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "It was said to her, “Enter the tower...” (TMQ, 27:44) so that he could complete his negotiations with her in order that she would believe. She came onto a great establishment. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "Then as soon as she saw it, she reckoned it a pool…" (TMQ, 27:44). This palace was constructed on the water: for her to reach the gate, she had to cross the ‘water.’ Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “… and she uncovered both her shanks. He said, “Surely it is a tower smoothed of crystal...” (TMQ, 27:44). True, though what she was facing was seawater, it was covered with a very delicate layer of glass which, despite its fragility, could still endure added weight. By Allah (SWT), has any civilization been able to construct such a building? Islam is what makes us excel! The notion 'Islam versus erudition' is a misconception. We do not know, up to our present day, how that building was constructed, nor does the Qur’an inform us. It was the technology that made her come to her senses and believe. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "She said, “Lord! Surely I have done injustice to myself, and I (now) surrender (i.e., I am a Muslim) with Solaiman to Allah, The Lord of the worlds.” (TMQ, 27:44). Excel in both your worldly and religious knowledge, and in your ethics, so that people will esteem and trust you when you are guiding them to Allah (SWT). Notice how, despite stepping-down on her pride, she still did not forget the fact that she was a queen, so she said, “I submit with Solaiman” not “for Solaiman.”
The death of Solaiman (AS):
After a full and outstanding life, it was time for Solaiman (AS) to die. Allah (SWT) has an appointed time for all His creatures. Allah (SWT) wanted the death of Solaiman (AS) to be a moral for all those who claim that the jinn have knowledge of the unseen.
A few months before his death, Solaiman (AS) commanded the jinn to construct a great tower for Islam. They continued constructing while Solaiman (AS) leaned on his cane, standing on a terrace observing them. Every time they wanted to stop, they found him watching. They were too fearful of being imprisoned by him that they would just resume working. One day, while standing in this condition, he died; he did not fall to the ground, however, as he was leaning on his cane. His successor found out about his death but did not inform anyone because he wanted the jinn to complete their work. Every now and then, he would come to whisper in his ears to deceive the jinn so they will feel that he was alive. All the time the jinn were truly wondering how he could remain in that condition not eating, drinking, sleeping, nor even sitting for so many weeks! Here is sure evidence that the jinn have no knowledge of the unseen at all. Weeks passed by with Solaiman (AS) standing in this condition until the earthworms started gnawing at the lower part of his cane making it hollow.
As a result, it could not support him any longer and he fell down. Only then did the jinn realize that Solaiman (AS) had died a while ago. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “So, as soon as We decreed death for him, in no way did anything indicate to them his death except the beast of the earth eating his rod. Then, as soon as he collapsed, the jinn evidently (saw) that; if they had known the Unseen, in no way would they have lingered in the degrading torment.” (TMQ, 34:14). Whoever believes that the jinn have the ability to do as they please, and the power to foresee the future, read this ayah and Allah's explanation of this matter in the Qur’an; come to your senses and strengthen your reliance on Allah (SWT).
That was the story of Solaiman (AS). Honour Islam and Allah (SWT) will honour and raise you!
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “All Extolment be to your Lord, The Lord of Might, above whatever they describe! And peace be upon the Emissaries; And praise be to Allah, The Lord of the worlds.” (TMQ, 37:180-182).
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Imagine our prophet Solaiman’s expression while listening to the vibrations of the ant's voice. The very concept is, without doubt, a great blessing; how had the ant recognized Solaiman (AS)? We have learned in the previous lecture (in Solaiman I) that those who command good, guide people, invite to Allah's path, and call for reform are recognized by the whole universe.
Nevertheless, why did he laugh? Notice the meticulous character of the Qur’anic expression in describing how he gradually smiled until he started laughing. He smiled because Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as (the ant saying), “(while) they are not aware.” (TMQ, 27:18). The ant knew, by instinct, that a Muslim army could not exterminate a population of ants unjustly because a Muslim army was pure and virtuous. Solaiman (AS) laughed because he realized how the whole universe recognized that Muslims were God-fearing; they did not act irrationally. Observe the nature of Solaiman’s character. What delights and moves him most is nothing but a religious triumph. An extremely significant meaning can be noted here; is it possible to claim that Islam is a source of terror and injustice when it does not allow harming even a single ant?
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "… and said, “Lord! Dispense me to thank (You) for Your favor wherewith You have favored me…” (TMQ, 27:19). This, very simply, means: ‘O Allah, make me assemble all my might, my potentials, my mental power, my whole existence, and all that I have in order to thank You.’
Do any of us possess this dignifying feeling of thanking Allah (SWT) for all His blessings? Dawud (AS) (David) had also asked it formerly, “My Lord, how can I thank you, when thanking You is by itself a blessing which deserves thanks?” Allah (SWT) answered, “Dawud, you have thanked Me by acknowledging that.” Is there any one who is pre-occupied with thanking Allah (SWT), who sits counting some of Allah's blessings, and who is so moved that he cries affectionately, “Allah, how can I express my gratitude when You have endowed me with so and so and blessed me with so and so?” Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Indeed in case you thank (Him), indeed I will definitely increase you "(TMQ, 14:7). The more you thank Allah (SWT), the more He grants you; if you want to enhance your talent, intellect, financial status, etc., thank Allah (SWT), use that blessing in his obedience, and engage your service to content Him, and He will bestow upon you with more blessings. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Do (righteousness), House of Dawûud, in thankfulness; and few of My bondmen are constantly thankful” (TMQ, 34:13). I am deeply affected every time I hear these words. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as “Lord! Dispense me to thank (You)” (TMQ, 27:19). At the end of the ayah (verse), Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as (Solaiman (AS) saying), “… and cause me to enter by Your mercy, among Your righteous bondmen.” (TMQ, 27:19). Solaiman (AS) is asking Allah (SWT) to include him with His righteous slaves even though he is in fact, a pioneer.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "And he reviewed the birds; then he said, “what is it with me that I do not see the hoopoe? Or is he among the absent?” (TMQ, 27:20). Solaiman (AS) had a habit of queuing his army, which was composed of multiple creatures, so that it was always alert and on the defence. He searched, but could not find the hoopoe; indeed, it requires sharpness to recognize that one hoopoe was absent out of so many (one amusing interpretation by some scholars, though, not supported by evidence, was that the hoopoe’s wings used to block the sun’s heat from Solaiman (AS)). What is the story and where is the hoopoe?
The hoopoe knew the time for the morning assembly; he was flying and picking out his means of living while preparing for the gathering. Being a respectable soldier, he was aware of the time. However, while soaring at a great altitude, he observed some people prostrating to the sun. He wondered what to do: should he fly back that great distance from Yemen, where those people were, to Palestine, where Solaiman (AS) was in order to arrive on time for the morning assembly. Should he stay and check this disaster? Finally, his positivism took over and he did not accept lining up, flapping his wings, and leaving this matter behind without bringing its details.
“I have to hurry and warn those people before they are severely punished!” he thought. He flew to Yemen, omitting the assembly, and began watching those people. He looked for further details until he saw a woman governing them.
This is for all those who are not concerned with guiding people: we are not just relating stories. Each of us should be deeply concerned about Islam. Only then will we find the contemporary condition of Muslims improving, as well as a better amendment of the whole universe. This is much better than each of us living for himself; if you take another person’s hands, you will develop into a stronger person day by day and you will not be alone. Pious companions will surround you. Brothers and sisters, the hoopoe had protectiveness for Islam and positivism, and he was preoccupied with an important issue, not just plain talk. Allah (SWT) is recounting this so that we may feel ashamed for any responsibility we fail to hold for our religion. It is not a question of religious lectures; the whole issue of religion must fill up your heart and become the essence of your existence.
The hoopoe flew back, but Solaiman (AS) had threatened to punish him because he was very late, contrary to the character of a Muslim army. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "And he reviewed the birds; then he said, “What is it with me that I do not see the hoopoe? Or is he among the absent? Indeed I will definitely torment him with a strict torment or indeed I will definitely slay him, or indeed he should definitely come up to me with an evident, all-binding authority." (TMQ, 27:20-21).
Imagine the immense effort the hoopoe undertook as he flew back and forth and compare it to being too lazy to address your neighbour residing next to you about Islam.
When the rest of the birds saw the hoopoe they warned him that Solaiman (AS) would harm him by plucking his feathers. Did he waver? I want you to imagine the scene. Allah (SWT) says, about the hoopoe, what can be translated as, “Yet he stayed (a while) without being far away, then said, “I have encompassed that which you have not encompassed, and I have come from Saba to you with a tiding of certitude." (TMQ, 27:22) He stayed close to Solaiman (AS), firmly rooted and unshaken, and imparted to him words that would be recited until the Day of Judgment. Such words are not issued except from one who is faithful to his religion, bearing jealousy for Islam, and having self-confidence.
The hoopoe continued his story, Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Surely I found a woman ruling over them, and she has been brought (much) of everything, and she has a magnificent throne.” (TMQ, 27:23). He holds the tiniest details. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as "I found her and her people prostrating to the sun, apart from Allah; and Ash-Shaytan (The ever-vicious, i.e., the Devil) has adorned (i.e., made attractive) their deeds to them, so has barred them from the way, so that they are not guided, So that they do not prostrate (themselves) to Allah, Who brings out what is hidden in the heavens and the earth. And He knows whatever you conceal and whatever you make public." (TMQ, 27:24-25). Note his jealousy for Islam! Is there any of us whose blood boils because of his concern for Islam on behalf of his relatives, his friends, etc.? He mentions “what is hidden,” indicating his foodstuff concealed beneath the vegetation, his love for Allah (SWT) is connected with his source of sustenance, ‘Allah is the One who feeds me, he acknowledges.’ Our sustenance is also in the hands of Allah (SWT). Learn from the hoopoe! He knows it is not the proficiency of his beak that brings out the seeds; it is Allah's grace, which makes it possible, “knows whatever you conceal and whatever you make public.” When he mentioned the hidden, he also mentioned the concealed intentions in our hearts, which only Allah (SWT) knows. He had noted the queen's throne, “she has a magnificent throne” but he remembered that her throne was worthless in comparison to Allah's throne. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as “Allah, there is no god except He, The Lord of the Magnificent Throne.” (TMQ, 27:26). By Allah (SWT), we need loads of hoopoes like this one!
We pause here at some intriguing connotations in the ayahs. The Qur’an is not restricted in its meanings and does not expire, no matter how often you turn to it; its wonders do not end for it is Allah's words on Earth. In those words, we come across great values like the traits of a successful leader. What attributes in one’s personality can make one a successful leader in an institution, school, hospital, etc.?
1. A successful leader checks on his employees and inquires about them. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "And he reviewed the birds”(TMQ 27:20)
2. He must not be hasty or reckless. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as “what is it with me that I do not see the hoopoe? Or is he among the absent?" (TMQ 27:20). If he had assumed quickly that the hoopoe was not there and threatened to punish him, the hoopoe could have been there, but Solaiman (AS) could not see him.
3. He must be resolute. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as , “Indeed I will definitely torment him with a strict torment or indeed I will definitely slay him, or indeed he should definitely come up to me with an evident, all-binding authority." (TMQ 27:21) No leader should be indecisive or else calamity would pervade throughout the army.
4. He must be objective and fair-minded. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “or indeed he should definitely come up to me with an evident, all-binding authority.” (TMQ 27:21)
5. He must be a good-listener. If the hoopoe had not known that, he would have escaped, but he stayed near-by.
The Qur’an also teaches us the virtues of a good employee:
1- Positivism: a Muslim employee should not simply go to work in the morning and come back home in the evening without thinking of ways to innovate progress.
2- Self-confidence: very important and we can sense it from what Allah (SWT) says and can be translated as, “without being far away” (TMQ 27:22).
3- The ability to categorize priorities: one matter is more important than another. Solaiman (AS) understood that what the hoopoe did was the right thing, for if he had lined-up with the others, he would not have been able to direct Solaiman (AS) to the transgressed tribe.
4- Accuracy in recounting information. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "I have come from Saba to you with a tiding of certitude." (TMQ, 27:22)
A comprehensive and magnificent skill of administration is given here.
Allah (SWT) says, what can be translated as, "He said, “We will soon look whether you have (spoken) sincerely or whether you are among the liars. Go with this book (i.e., letter) of mine, then cast it to them; thereafter turn away from them, (and) so look what (answer) they return.” (TMQ, 27:27-28). Why the hoopoe? It would have been possible to assign this task to anyone else, but Solaiman (AS) wanted the hoopoe to have the full reward, since he was the one who brought the matter into light. He said, “… thereafter turn away from them” so that the hoopoe would not eavesdrop - observe the manners! “(and) so look what (answer) they return” indicates that he was to stay at a distance and bring back their news.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "She said, “O you chiefs, surely an honorable book has been cast to me. Surely it is from Solaiman, (Solomon) and surely it is in The Name of Allah, The All-Merciful, The Ever-Merciful. That “You should not exalt yourselves against me, and come up to me as Muslims.” (Or: in surrender).” (TMQ, 27:29-31)
Clearly, she did not want to fight and was paving the way for peace. The letter she received was composed of four words (in Arabic): Don’t remain arrogant and submit to Allah (SWT). It is alleged that the first to write, “In the name of Allah, the All-Merciful, the Ever-Merciful,” in a letter was Solaiman (AS).
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “She said, “O you chiefs, pronounce to me concerning my command; in no way have I affirmed (Literally: cutting) a command until you bear witness.” (TMQ, 27:32). It is evident that she was a rational woman and the Qur’an has proven that she was a woman of sense and awareness of consultation. We find here an extremely significant meaning: Islam does not view women as feeble-minded. The Hadith, where it was reported that the Prophet (SAWS)[3] said, addressing women, “… I have not seen anyone more deficient in intelligence and religion than you” (The complete version of this Hadith is in Sahih Bukhari, Volume 1, Book 6, Number 301) only means that the decrease in her religion is in the quantity during her menstruation, whereas, the decrease in her mind or judgment is because Allah (SWT) has bestowed her with excess emotion, which sometimes overcomes her judgment. However, this does not mean that women are incapable of thinking or fair judgment. Here is the Qur’an, proving to us that this queen was intelligent, and of sound and sophisticated thoughts. There are also various incidences throughout history confirming the cleverness and high-quality sense of women.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “They said, “We are endowed with power, and we are endowed with strict violence, (i.e., we are strong and able to fight) and the command (rests) with you; so look into what you command (us).” (TMQ, 27:33).
It seems that they were inclined to fight, but they left the matter to her. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “She said, “Surely, kings, when they enter a town, do corruption in it and make the mighty ones of its population humiliated. And thus they (too) will perform (similarly).” (TMQ, 27:34). She was more prone to conciliatory means, which defines her femininity and rational disposition. She composed a plan to determine whether he was a prophet, or a king eager for her empire. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "And surely I am sending to them a present, so I am waiting to look into what the emissaries return with.” (TMQ, 27:35). “I will send a gift: if he is a worldly man he will accept it and the whole matter will end, but if he is a religious man and rejects the gift and insists on his call to Allah, then we will not fight him.” What can one think of the mentality of this woman?
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "So, as soon as he (the envoy) came to Solaiman, (Solomon) he said, “Would you supply me with wealth? Then what Allah has brought me is more charitable (i.e., better) than what He has brought you. No indeed, (but) you exult with your present. Return to them. So indeed we will definitely come up against them with hosts they cannot withstand (Literally: of no withstanding). Indeed, we will definitely drive them out there from humiliated, and they will be (utterly) belittled.” (TMQ, 27:36-37). She sent him an envoy with a magnificent gift. When he saw this, Solaiman (AS) said, “What Allah has granted me of prophet-hood, religion, knowledge, miracles is much better than what He provided you, but you are only too pleased with worldly gifts.” Observe the honour of Islam in the words of the ayahs: He would send a great army because He had insisted on his concepts. This sagacious woman decided to go out herself to meet him and apologize. She commanded a delegation to be prepared. When news reached Solaiman (AS) that she was coming to meet him, he realized that she was a wise woman and did not dispatch his army. However, he wished to overwhelm her with Islamic civilization and technology.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "He said, “O you chiefs, whichever one of you will come up to me with (i.e., bring) her throne before they come up to me as Muslims?” (Or: in surrender).” (TMQ, 27:38). That is so that when she first arrived she would see her throne. He was not doing this out of conceit (Allah (SWT)-forbid) but only to ascertain Islamic power and civilization. If you do not possess the means (skill, language, talent, etc.) to impress people in order to draw them to the progressiveness Islam offers, they will not be drawn nor convinced. He did not want to impress her with words, but with real evidence of the supremacy of Muslims and the glory of Islamic civilization. This takes us back to the importance of knowledge and technology.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as,"A Ifrit (i.e., powerful, stalwart) of the jinn said, “I will come up with it to you before you rise up from your station; and surely I am indeed powerful for it (and) trustworthy." (TMQ, 27:39). Solaiman (AS) was accustomed to assemble with the people for giving legal opinion and judgment. A jinni said he could bring that throne before Solaiman (AS) got up from that council. Solaiman (AS), however, was not satisfied with that: Muslims possessed higher technology than this.
Who amongst those who keep regular prayers in the mosque rank among the highest in high school or college? What kind of unique achievement will the religious Muslim woman, dressed in an Islamic way, offer? Does becoming religious define an endpoint? Indeed, it is only the commencement of success in this world, but most people do not understand.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "Said he in whose presence was knowledge of the Book, “I will come up with it (i.e., bring) to you before your glance returns on you.” (i.e., in the twinkling of an eye).” (TMQ, 27:40) Who was it who had this knowledge? It was not Solaiman (AS); the Qur’an would have informed us if this were the case. Scholars of Qur’anic exegesis have differing opinions: some say it was a man who knew the Great name of Allah (SWT), though there is no real evidence. It seems that Allah (SWT) may occasionally let some of His creatures on secrets unknown to prophets like the story of al-Khidr in (Surat al-Kahf). There may be some people among us who see in their dreams universal events which may come true. If one happens to be one of those, then he should know that it is a gift from Allah (SWT)- thank Him and do not use it in wrongdoing.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “Then, as soon as he saw it secured in position in his presence, he (Solaiman) said, “This is of the Grace of my Lord that He may try me, whether I thank (Him) or be ungrateful. And whoever thanks (Him), then surely he thanks only for his (own) self, and whoever is ungrateful, (Or: whoever disbelieves) then surely my Lord is Ever-Affluent, (Literally: Ever-Wealthy, Ever-Rich) Ever-Honorable.” (TMQ, 27:40). Suddenly, he had found the throne in front of him, so he thanked Allah (SWT). As you may have noticed, Solaiman (AS) used to thank Allah (SWT) for all His blessings. In the Qur’an, thanking and gratitude are mentioned hand in hand. Whoever thanks will be the one to benefit because Allah (SWT) is self-sufficient and does not need our thanks.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "He said, “Disguise her throne for her, that we may look into whether she is guided, or she is of the ones who are not guided.” (TMQ, 27:41). The throne contained jewellery and gold. Solaiman (AS) ordered that the ornaments of this jewellery be changed to test her intelligence. If she proved to be intelligent, it would be easy for her to embrace Islam; the mind is drawn to it. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "So, as soon as she came, it was said, “Is your throne just like this?” She said, “(It is) as though it were the (very) one.” (TMQ, 27:42).
She seemed to be intelligent, for she neither confirmed nor denied. Notice how Allah (SWT) combined knowledge and Islam. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “And (Solaiman) (Solomon) said, “We were brought the knowledge before her, and we were Muslims.” (i.e., we surrendered ‘to Allah’). (TMQ, 27:42) She, however, persisted on disbelieving. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "And what she used to worship, apart from Allah, barred her (from belief); (for) surely she was of a disbelieving people." (TMQ, 27:43). Her pride was a barrier and the fact that she was a queen.
Solaiman (AS) wanted to give her another chance: he would overwhelm her with greater technology that had not arrived yet, not even in the twenty-first century! Brothers, it is inevitable that we should possess industrial pre-eminence and that we are keen on the enhancement of our nation so that amongst us will emerge the best computer engineer or the best parable writer in the world, for example.
Therefore, strive hard, young people. Disbelievers will not pay attention to one who prays a great deal. They will be influenced and believe if, besides spiritualism and faith, we also advance in knowledge.
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "It was said to her, “Enter the tower...” (TMQ, 27:44) so that he could complete his negotiations with her in order that she would believe. She came onto a great establishment. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "Then as soon as she saw it, she reckoned it a pool…" (TMQ, 27:44). This palace was constructed on the water: for her to reach the gate, she had to cross the ‘water.’ Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “… and she uncovered both her shanks. He said, “Surely it is a tower smoothed of crystal...” (TMQ, 27:44). True, though what she was facing was seawater, it was covered with a very delicate layer of glass which, despite its fragility, could still endure added weight. By Allah (SWT), has any civilization been able to construct such a building? Islam is what makes us excel! The notion 'Islam versus erudition' is a misconception. We do not know, up to our present day, how that building was constructed, nor does the Qur’an inform us. It was the technology that made her come to her senses and believe. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, "She said, “Lord! Surely I have done injustice to myself, and I (now) surrender (i.e., I am a Muslim) with Solaiman to Allah, The Lord of the worlds.” (TMQ, 27:44). Excel in both your worldly and religious knowledge, and in your ethics, so that people will esteem and trust you when you are guiding them to Allah (SWT). Notice how, despite stepping-down on her pride, she still did not forget the fact that she was a queen, so she said, “I submit with Solaiman” not “for Solaiman.”
The death of Solaiman (AS):
After a full and outstanding life, it was time for Solaiman (AS) to die. Allah (SWT) has an appointed time for all His creatures. Allah (SWT) wanted the death of Solaiman (AS) to be a moral for all those who claim that the jinn have knowledge of the unseen.
A few months before his death, Solaiman (AS) commanded the jinn to construct a great tower for Islam. They continued constructing while Solaiman (AS) leaned on his cane, standing on a terrace observing them. Every time they wanted to stop, they found him watching. They were too fearful of being imprisoned by him that they would just resume working. One day, while standing in this condition, he died; he did not fall to the ground, however, as he was leaning on his cane. His successor found out about his death but did not inform anyone because he wanted the jinn to complete their work. Every now and then, he would come to whisper in his ears to deceive the jinn so they will feel that he was alive. All the time the jinn were truly wondering how he could remain in that condition not eating, drinking, sleeping, nor even sitting for so many weeks! Here is sure evidence that the jinn have no knowledge of the unseen at all. Weeks passed by with Solaiman (AS) standing in this condition until the earthworms started gnawing at the lower part of his cane making it hollow.
As a result, it could not support him any longer and he fell down. Only then did the jinn realize that Solaiman (AS) had died a while ago. Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “So, as soon as We decreed death for him, in no way did anything indicate to them his death except the beast of the earth eating his rod. Then, as soon as he collapsed, the jinn evidently (saw) that; if they had known the Unseen, in no way would they have lingered in the degrading torment.” (TMQ, 34:14). Whoever believes that the jinn have the ability to do as they please, and the power to foresee the future, read this ayah and Allah's explanation of this matter in the Qur’an; come to your senses and strengthen your reliance on Allah (SWT).
That was the story of Solaiman (AS). Honour Islam and Allah (SWT) will honour and raise you!
Allah (SWT) says what can be translated as, “All Extolment be to your Lord, The Lord of Might, above whatever they describe! And peace be upon the Emissaries; And praise be to Allah, The Lord of the worlds.” (TMQ, 37:180-182).
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Khilafah inshAllah
In these difficult times we must not get defeated, have vision and work to achieve that vision. Israel will be defeated in the future and Jerusalem will become the capital of the Islamic Khilafah inshAllah.
The following are evidences from the Quran and ahadith for this:
Allah سبحانه وتعالى says:
وَقَضَيْنَا إِلَى بَنِي إِسْرَائِيلَ فِي الْكِتَابِ لَتُفْسِدُنَّ فِي الأَرْضِ مَرَّتَيْنِ وَلَتَعْلُنَّ عُلُوًّا كَبِيرًا {4}
فَإِذَا جَاء وَعْدُ أُولاهُمَا بَعَثْنَا عَلَيْكُمْ عِبَادًا لَّنَا أُوْلِي بَأْسٍ شَدِيدٍ فَجَاسُواْ خِلاَلَ الدِّيَارِ وَكَانَ وَعْدًا مَّفْعُولاً {5}
ثُمَّ رَدَدْنَا لَكُمُ الْكَرَّةَ عَلَيْهِمْ وَأَمْدَدْنَاكُم بِأَمْوَالٍ وَبَنِينَ وَجَعَلْنَاكُمْ أَكْثَرَ نَفِيرًا {6}
إِنْ أَحْسَنتُمْ أَحْسَنتُمْ لِأَنفُسِكُمْ وَإِنْ أَسَأْتُمْ فَلَهَا فَإِذَا جَاء وَعْدُ الآخِرَةِ لِيَسُوؤُواْ وُجُوهَكُمْ وَلِيَدْخُلُواْ الْمَسْجِدَ كَمَا دَخَلُوهُ أَوَّلَ مَرَّةٍ وَلِيُتَبِّرُواْ مَا عَلَوْاْ تَتْبِيرًا {7}
عَسَى رَبُّكُمْ أَن يَرْحَمَكُمْ وَإِنْ عُدتُّمْ عُدْنَا وَجَعَلْنَا جَهَنَّمَ لِلْكَافِرِينَ حَصِيرًا {8}
"And we decreed for the Children of Israel in the Scripture, that indeed you would do mischief on the earth twice and you will become tyrants and extremely arrogant! So, when the promise came for the first of the two, We sent against you slaves of Ours given to terrible warfare. They entered the very innermost parts of your homes. And it was a promise (completely) fulfilled. Then We gave you once again, a return of victory over them. And We helped you with wealth and children and made you more numerous in manpower. (And We said): 'If you do well, you do good for your ownselves, and if you do evil (you do it) against yourselves'. Then, when the second promise came to pass, (We permitted your enemies) to make your faces sorrowful and to enter the mosque (of Jerusalem) as they had entered it before, and to destroy with utter destruction all that fell in their hands. [And We Said in the Taurat (Torah)]: 'It may be that your Lord may show mercy unto you, but if you return (to sins), We shall return (to Our Punishment). And We have made Hell a prison for the disbelievers." [TMQ Al-Isra, 17:4-8]
The indication in this verse that the second promise of Allah سبحانه وتعالى which will come to pass refers to the destruction of Israel is where it says, "to make your faces sorrowful and to enter the mosque (of Jerusalem) as they had entered it before." The Muslims opened Jerusalem to Islam under the rule of the second Khalifah Umar ibn al-Khattab (ra), the Islamic state ruled it with justice for hundreds of years. Even though it was captured by the Crusader Christians for a number of years it was never captured by the Jews previous to the formation of the state of Israel. So Allah سبحانه وتعالى promises that we will enter the mosque of Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem as we entered it before when we conquered it.
Narrated by Ibn ‘Asaakir, from Maseerah b. Jaleese, where he heard the Prophet صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم: "This matter (the Khilafah) will continue after me in Al-Madina, then (move to) Al-Shaam, then to the peninsula, then to Iraq, then to the city, then to Bait-ul-Maqdis. So if it reaches Bait-ul-Maqdis, then it would have reached its (natural resting place); and no people who remove it (i.e. the capital of the Khilafah) from their land will ever get it back again (for them to be the capital again)."
The scholars said they believe that what he صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم meant by ‘the city' is the city of Heraclius (Constantinople). This hadith is talking about which cities would become the capital of the Khilafah, all the cities mentioned have been the capitals of the Khilafah in the past except Bait ul-Maqdis (Jerusalem). This will be our capital sometime in the future inshallah.
In addition there are others from Ibn ‘Asaakir, from Abdul Rahman b. Abi ‘Umayrah Al-Muzni, who said that he heard the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم: "There will be, in Bait-ul-Maqdis, a (rightly guided) Bay'a."
These include narrations by Al-Haakim, which have been classified as Sahih. Of these is the narration from Abi Shareeh: "...I have heard those who say that they will be twelve banners, and under each banner twelve thousand (men), and the Muslims will gather to their comrade (or Imam) in Bait-ul-Maqdis (Al-Quds)."
It was narrated by Ibn Habban in his book of Sahih Ahadith, that Al-Shaam (the region which covers Jordan, Syria, Palestine, Lebanon and part of Iraq) will be the base of the land of the believers at the end of time. On the authority of Al-Nawas b. Sam'aan, who said that he heard the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم say, "...and the ‘Uqr (natural origin) of the land of the believers is Al-Shaam."
It was also narrated by Ahmad from the hadith by Salamah b. Nufayl, "...verily, the ‘Uqr of the land of the believers is Al-Shaam..."
Furthermore, it was narrated by Al-Tabarani, in ‘Al-Kabeer,' on the authority of Salamah b. Nufayl: "The ‘Uqr of Dar Al-Islam is in Al-Shaam." According to Al-Haythami, this was narrated by Al-Tabarani, and his men (chain of narration) are trustworthy.
This hadith was narrated by 5 Tabi' Tabi'een, from two Tabi'een, from 2 of the Sahaba. Due to the nature of the definite truthfulness of the speaker (the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم), this hadith is with regards to the second ‘Uqr of Dar Al-Islam, and not the ‘Uqr of the first, for the meaning of the ‘Uqr of the land is its centre and origin, and the ‘Uqr of the first Islamic State was in Al-Madina Al-Munawwarah; therefore, this means that what is meant here is the ‘Uqr of the second Islamic State.
It was narrated by Abu Dawud in ‘Al-Sunan', on the authority of Abdullah b. ‘Amr (ra): "There will be a Hijrah after a Hijrah, so the best people on earth are those who keep to the (land of the) Hijrah of Ibrahim (i.e. Al-Shaam)."
This Hadith was also narrated by Al-Haakim, who said that it is Sahih according to the conditions of the two Shaykhs, and they have not narrated it. On the authority of Musa b. Ali b. Rabah, who said: I heard my father say: ‘...Abu Hurairah said, I was told by Abdullah b. ‘Amr b. Al-‘Aas (ra): I heard the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم say...' and he mentioned the hadith. It was also narrated by Ahmad in his Musnad, on the authority of Abdullah b. ‘Amr, and said: ‘I heard the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم say...' and he mentioned the hadith.
This hadith was narrated by at least five Tabi' Tabi'een, from three Tabi'een, from two Sahaba. It indicates that there will be a Hijrah (emigration) to Al-Shaam after the Hijrah to Al-Madina. The purpose of Hijrah is to leave Dar Al-Kufr (land ruled by Kufr) and to emigrate to Dar Al-Islam (land ruled by Islam). The first emigration was to Al-Madina, and the second emigration will be to Al-Shaam. This understanding supports the hadith regarding the ‘Uqr of Dar Al-Islam.
It was narrated by Abu Dawud, on the authority of Ibn Zughb Al-Ayadi, who said that Ali Abdullah b. Hawalah Al-Azdi came to him and said: "The Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم sent us to seek booty on foot, so we returned and did not find anything, and he صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم could see the exhaustion in our faces, so he stood up and said: ‘Oh Allah, do not leave them for me, where I would be too weak for them, and do not leave them to themselves, where they would be too weak for themselves, and do not leave them for the people, where they would keep (the good) from them, keeping it for themselves.' Then he صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم placed his hand on my head..." (or he said: "...on my forehead): ‘Oh, Ibn Hawalah, if you see that the Khilafah has come to the sacred land (Al-Quds), then the earthquakes, the troubles, and the great happenings have come, and the hour on that day is nearer to the people than my hand here on your head.'"
Al-Haakim also narrated this hadith on the authority of Ibn Zughb Al-Ibaadi. He declared that this hadith has an authentic chain of narrators, and it was not narrated by the two Shaykhs. Ahmad narrated it with the same Isnad (chain of narrators) as Al-Haakim. If Ibn Zughb is Abdullah, then he is one of the Sahaba, and if he is Abdul-Rahman, then he is one of the Tabi'een. Therefore, this hadith was narrated by two Sahaba if he is the first (Abdullah), or one of the Sahaba if he is the second (Abdul-Rahman); and one of the Tabi'een if he is the first, or two of the Tabi'een if he is the second; and three Tabi' Tabi'een in both cases.
This hadith indicates that the Khilafah will come to the land of Al-Quds. It cannot be said that the Khilafah came to it during the Khilafah of ‘Umar (ra), because the earthquakes, troubles and tumultuous events did not come at that time. This means that there will be a second coming of the Khilafah in which these events will follow.
khilafah
The following are evidences from the Quran and ahadith for this:
Allah سبحانه وتعالى says:
وَقَضَيْنَا إِلَى بَنِي إِسْرَائِيلَ فِي الْكِتَابِ لَتُفْسِدُنَّ فِي الأَرْضِ مَرَّتَيْنِ وَلَتَعْلُنَّ عُلُوًّا كَبِيرًا {4}
فَإِذَا جَاء وَعْدُ أُولاهُمَا بَعَثْنَا عَلَيْكُمْ عِبَادًا لَّنَا أُوْلِي بَأْسٍ شَدِيدٍ فَجَاسُواْ خِلاَلَ الدِّيَارِ وَكَانَ وَعْدًا مَّفْعُولاً {5}
ثُمَّ رَدَدْنَا لَكُمُ الْكَرَّةَ عَلَيْهِمْ وَأَمْدَدْنَاكُم بِأَمْوَالٍ وَبَنِينَ وَجَعَلْنَاكُمْ أَكْثَرَ نَفِيرًا {6}
إِنْ أَحْسَنتُمْ أَحْسَنتُمْ لِأَنفُسِكُمْ وَإِنْ أَسَأْتُمْ فَلَهَا فَإِذَا جَاء وَعْدُ الآخِرَةِ لِيَسُوؤُواْ وُجُوهَكُمْ وَلِيَدْخُلُواْ الْمَسْجِدَ كَمَا دَخَلُوهُ أَوَّلَ مَرَّةٍ وَلِيُتَبِّرُواْ مَا عَلَوْاْ تَتْبِيرًا {7}
عَسَى رَبُّكُمْ أَن يَرْحَمَكُمْ وَإِنْ عُدتُّمْ عُدْنَا وَجَعَلْنَا جَهَنَّمَ لِلْكَافِرِينَ حَصِيرًا {8}
"And we decreed for the Children of Israel in the Scripture, that indeed you would do mischief on the earth twice and you will become tyrants and extremely arrogant! So, when the promise came for the first of the two, We sent against you slaves of Ours given to terrible warfare. They entered the very innermost parts of your homes. And it was a promise (completely) fulfilled. Then We gave you once again, a return of victory over them. And We helped you with wealth and children and made you more numerous in manpower. (And We said): 'If you do well, you do good for your ownselves, and if you do evil (you do it) against yourselves'. Then, when the second promise came to pass, (We permitted your enemies) to make your faces sorrowful and to enter the mosque (of Jerusalem) as they had entered it before, and to destroy with utter destruction all that fell in their hands. [And We Said in the Taurat (Torah)]: 'It may be that your Lord may show mercy unto you, but if you return (to sins), We shall return (to Our Punishment). And We have made Hell a prison for the disbelievers." [TMQ Al-Isra, 17:4-8]
The indication in this verse that the second promise of Allah سبحانه وتعالى which will come to pass refers to the destruction of Israel is where it says, "to make your faces sorrowful and to enter the mosque (of Jerusalem) as they had entered it before." The Muslims opened Jerusalem to Islam under the rule of the second Khalifah Umar ibn al-Khattab (ra), the Islamic state ruled it with justice for hundreds of years. Even though it was captured by the Crusader Christians for a number of years it was never captured by the Jews previous to the formation of the state of Israel. So Allah سبحانه وتعالى promises that we will enter the mosque of Masjid al-Aqsa in Jerusalem as we entered it before when we conquered it.
Narrated by Ibn ‘Asaakir, from Maseerah b. Jaleese, where he heard the Prophet صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم: "This matter (the Khilafah) will continue after me in Al-Madina, then (move to) Al-Shaam, then to the peninsula, then to Iraq, then to the city, then to Bait-ul-Maqdis. So if it reaches Bait-ul-Maqdis, then it would have reached its (natural resting place); and no people who remove it (i.e. the capital of the Khilafah) from their land will ever get it back again (for them to be the capital again)."
The scholars said they believe that what he صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم meant by ‘the city' is the city of Heraclius (Constantinople). This hadith is talking about which cities would become the capital of the Khilafah, all the cities mentioned have been the capitals of the Khilafah in the past except Bait ul-Maqdis (Jerusalem). This will be our capital sometime in the future inshallah.
In addition there are others from Ibn ‘Asaakir, from Abdul Rahman b. Abi ‘Umayrah Al-Muzni, who said that he heard the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم: "There will be, in Bait-ul-Maqdis, a (rightly guided) Bay'a."
These include narrations by Al-Haakim, which have been classified as Sahih. Of these is the narration from Abi Shareeh: "...I have heard those who say that they will be twelve banners, and under each banner twelve thousand (men), and the Muslims will gather to their comrade (or Imam) in Bait-ul-Maqdis (Al-Quds)."
It was narrated by Ibn Habban in his book of Sahih Ahadith, that Al-Shaam (the region which covers Jordan, Syria, Palestine, Lebanon and part of Iraq) will be the base of the land of the believers at the end of time. On the authority of Al-Nawas b. Sam'aan, who said that he heard the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم say, "...and the ‘Uqr (natural origin) of the land of the believers is Al-Shaam."
It was also narrated by Ahmad from the hadith by Salamah b. Nufayl, "...verily, the ‘Uqr of the land of the believers is Al-Shaam..."
Furthermore, it was narrated by Al-Tabarani, in ‘Al-Kabeer,' on the authority of Salamah b. Nufayl: "The ‘Uqr of Dar Al-Islam is in Al-Shaam." According to Al-Haythami, this was narrated by Al-Tabarani, and his men (chain of narration) are trustworthy.
This hadith was narrated by 5 Tabi' Tabi'een, from two Tabi'een, from 2 of the Sahaba. Due to the nature of the definite truthfulness of the speaker (the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم), this hadith is with regards to the second ‘Uqr of Dar Al-Islam, and not the ‘Uqr of the first, for the meaning of the ‘Uqr of the land is its centre and origin, and the ‘Uqr of the first Islamic State was in Al-Madina Al-Munawwarah; therefore, this means that what is meant here is the ‘Uqr of the second Islamic State.
It was narrated by Abu Dawud in ‘Al-Sunan', on the authority of Abdullah b. ‘Amr (ra): "There will be a Hijrah after a Hijrah, so the best people on earth are those who keep to the (land of the) Hijrah of Ibrahim (i.e. Al-Shaam)."
This Hadith was also narrated by Al-Haakim, who said that it is Sahih according to the conditions of the two Shaykhs, and they have not narrated it. On the authority of Musa b. Ali b. Rabah, who said: I heard my father say: ‘...Abu Hurairah said, I was told by Abdullah b. ‘Amr b. Al-‘Aas (ra): I heard the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم say...' and he mentioned the hadith. It was also narrated by Ahmad in his Musnad, on the authority of Abdullah b. ‘Amr, and said: ‘I heard the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم say...' and he mentioned the hadith.
This hadith was narrated by at least five Tabi' Tabi'een, from three Tabi'een, from two Sahaba. It indicates that there will be a Hijrah (emigration) to Al-Shaam after the Hijrah to Al-Madina. The purpose of Hijrah is to leave Dar Al-Kufr (land ruled by Kufr) and to emigrate to Dar Al-Islam (land ruled by Islam). The first emigration was to Al-Madina, and the second emigration will be to Al-Shaam. This understanding supports the hadith regarding the ‘Uqr of Dar Al-Islam.
It was narrated by Abu Dawud, on the authority of Ibn Zughb Al-Ayadi, who said that Ali Abdullah b. Hawalah Al-Azdi came to him and said: "The Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم sent us to seek booty on foot, so we returned and did not find anything, and he صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم could see the exhaustion in our faces, so he stood up and said: ‘Oh Allah, do not leave them for me, where I would be too weak for them, and do not leave them to themselves, where they would be too weak for themselves, and do not leave them for the people, where they would keep (the good) from them, keeping it for themselves.' Then he صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم placed his hand on my head..." (or he said: "...on my forehead): ‘Oh, Ibn Hawalah, if you see that the Khilafah has come to the sacred land (Al-Quds), then the earthquakes, the troubles, and the great happenings have come, and the hour on that day is nearer to the people than my hand here on your head.'"
Al-Haakim also narrated this hadith on the authority of Ibn Zughb Al-Ibaadi. He declared that this hadith has an authentic chain of narrators, and it was not narrated by the two Shaykhs. Ahmad narrated it with the same Isnad (chain of narrators) as Al-Haakim. If Ibn Zughb is Abdullah, then he is one of the Sahaba, and if he is Abdul-Rahman, then he is one of the Tabi'een. Therefore, this hadith was narrated by two Sahaba if he is the first (Abdullah), or one of the Sahaba if he is the second (Abdul-Rahman); and one of the Tabi'een if he is the first, or two of the Tabi'een if he is the second; and three Tabi' Tabi'een in both cases.
This hadith indicates that the Khilafah will come to the land of Al-Quds. It cannot be said that the Khilafah came to it during the Khilafah of ‘Umar (ra), because the earthquakes, troubles and tumultuous events did not come at that time. This means that there will be a second coming of the Khilafah in which these events will follow.
khilafah
The Islamic State
In Arabic, the word Al Dawlah means linguistically the "Ghalaba", i.e. the supremacy, it is also a term used to indicate the change of time; it is also said: The days have alternated or rotated, i.e. they have changed; or Allah سبحانه وتعالى alternates it between people etc. States change and vary according to the change of concepts, the change of times and the change of peoples. The State is a word of terminology which refers to an authority that commands and prohibits a group of people who live in a certain piece of land. However, the definition of the state differs due to the difference of viewpoints and nations towards its reality.
The westerners for instance, despite the different viewpoints they hold towards the reality of the state and towards the type of rule within the state, whether this were religious, as was the case in the medieval times, or dictatorial or democratic, all agree that the state is reflected in the land, its peoples and its rulers, and that these three represent the cornerstones of the state. To them, the state is established over a specific peace of land, in which a specific group of people live permanently, and over whom a ruling authority presides.
As for the Islamic state, it is a ruling authority, and a political entity that looks after the citizens' affairs according to the Shari'ah rules; in other words, it is a Khaleefah ruling by what Allah سبحانه وتعالى has revealed and carrying Islam as a Message to the entire world. Allah سبحانه وتعالى has decreed that the Islamic state should be the method to implement the Shari'ah rules and to carry Islam by way of Da'awa and Jihad as a Message of guidance and light to the whole world.
The Islamic state does not consider its territory, nor its specific group of people as her cornerstones, although she has to have citizens for whom she runs their affairs, and a piece of land on which she is established; however, her citizens are growing in numbers at all times, and they include different races and colours; also the land over which she rules must not be confined within certain borders, but it must be expanding at all times. This is so because the Islamic state has a universal Message, and because Allah سبحانه وتعالى has ordered her to carry that Message to the whole world, and to invite all people, be they black, white, brown, yellow, Arab, non-Arab, European, American or Russian to Islam, and to enter into the Deen of Allah سبحانه وتعالى. Therefore, any race and any people, who respond to the call, and believe in Islam, would become part of the state's subjects, and their land becomes part of her land. Also, any land which the Islamic state carries the Message to and conquers by way of Jihad, that land becomes part of her land and under her authority and her rule, even if its people did not embrace Islam.
The state as it stands, is born out of new thoughts on which it bases itself; the authority in the state changes when these thoughts change once power is seized. For when the thoughts turn into concepts and convictions, one's behaviour is affected, and he becomes fashioned by these concepts, thus his viewpoint vis-a-vis life would change, and consequently his viewpoint towards relationships and interests change as well. The authority is established in order to look after the people's affairs, relationships and interests.
The Islamic state was established by the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم as soon as he set foot in Madinah, after he had taken the second pledge (Baya'a) of Al-Aqaba from the Ansar, a pledge of protection and war, and a pledge to hand the authority in Madinah to the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم. The birth of the Islamic state was the result of a new Aqeeda and a host of new concepts adopted by those who believed in him صلى الله عليه وسلم; these concepts generated in his followers a new viewpoint about life, which in turn changed their viewpoint towards relationships and interests.
The Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم built the Islamic state in Madinah on the basis of this Aqeeda, and on the concepts which emanated from it, despite the fact that the verses of legislation had not been revealed yet. She was therefore a new state, built on a new Aqeeda, and on a host of new thoughts and concepts.
The Islamic state is unique in her nature, her structure, what she stands for and the basis on which she is built. She is completely different from the nature and the structure of all the existing states in the world. She is a state founded on the Islamic Aqeeda, the Aqeeda of "There is no god but Allah, Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah", which is a comprehensive thought about life, and according to which and to the concepts which emanated from it, the Muslims viewpoint about life has been determined; this viewpoint leads to the belief that life is created by a Creator, and that it is conducted by the commands and prohibitions of the Creator. For the Muslims, it is a foregone conclusion that there is no legislator but Allah سبحانه وتعالى,and that there is no sovereignty in this life and in this Islamic state except to the rule of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, not to the Ummah, nor the people, nor the ruler. Sovereignty is rather to the law of Allah alone.
Therefore, the Ummah and the ruler alike, have no mandatory powers to legislate any rule or any system or any law other than that revealed by Allah سبحانه وتعالى upon His Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم. Even if the Ummah were to commonly consent on legislating any rule that contradicts one of the Islamic rules, her consent would have no value whatsoever. So, if for instance, the Ummah were to consent on legalising Usury, under the pretext that the economy and the trade could not prosper without it, or if the Ummah were to consent on legitimising sexual relationships outside marriage, under the pretext that it is personal freedom, or if she were to prohibit the killing of the apostate from Islam, under the pretext that his killing would violate human rights, or if the state was to consent to have more than one doctrine or belief as a state or the succession to power of Muslims or even secular parties under the pretext of democracy, all these types of common consensus, if they ever took place, wouldn't have any consideration whatsoever, for they contradict the Islamic rules, the sovereignty of Shari'ah, and the belief that Allah is The Only Legislator, and not humans.
The fact that the Islamic Aqeeda acts as the basis of the Islamic state, means that there is no place for anyone, be they rulers, judges, intellectuals, politicians, members of the Shura council, Ummahs council or parliamentarians to legislate any rule in order to organise people's relationships, nor to adopt a constitution, or to adopt a system, or enact a state law to be implemented by the rulers in the Islamic state, if these were other than what Allah سبحانه وتعالى has revealed. It is also forbidden for the rulers to force people or even give them a choice in following systems and laws laid down by humans in order to run their affairs.
When the Khaleefah according to his mandatory powers adopts a constitution or a system or a law, he must take these from the Book of Allah سبحانه وتعالى and the Sunnah of His Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم, by way of either his own Ijtihad (exertion) or that of the Muslim jurisprudents and learned scholars. This necessitates that the Islamic state's constitution, her systems and laws be taken from what Allah سبحانه وتعالى revealed to His Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم, i.e. taken from the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger, and what they may guide to from the Qiyas (analogy made on Shari'ah texts) and the general consensus of the Sahaba.
It is therefore forbidden for the Islamic state to nurse any thought or to hold any concept, rule, constitution, law, or any criterion which does not emanate from the Islamic Aqeeda, and which is not derived from the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger, or from a legitimate Qiyas or from the general consensus of the Sahaba. So it is therefore forbidden for the Islamic state to adopt the democratic way of life and the ruling systems democracy calls for, such as a multiplicity of beliefs, the succession to power of Muslims or those of secular belief, or the various types of freedoms, for all these do not emanate from the Islamic Aqeeda, nor are they taken from the Shari'ah rules, apart from the fact that they all contradict the Islamic rules. It is forbidden as well to have in the Islamic state any consideration to the concepts of nationalism, patriotism or autonomy (separation), because these concepts do not emanate from the Islamic aqeeda, and they all contradict Shari'ah rules, apart from the fact that the Islamic rules have abhorred and prohibited them and warned against adopting them. Furthermore, it is forbidden for the Islamic state to hold any monarchical, republican, dictatorial imperial concepts, for these do not emanate from the Islamic Aqeeda, and they are not taken from the Shari'ah rules, beside the fact that they contradict the Shari'ah rules.
Allah سبحانه وتعالى has commanded all the Muslims, including the rulers, to abide by Islam and to comprehensively implement all of its rules exactly as they have been revealed; Allah سبحانه وتعالى says:
وَمَا آتَاكُمُ الرَّسُولُ فَخُذُوهُ وَمَا نَهَاكُمْ عَنْهُ فَانتَهُوا وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ إِنَّ اللَّهَ شَدِيدُ الْعِقَابِ
"Do take all that the Messenger of Allah has brought to you, and do refrain and keep away from all that he prohibited for you, and fear Allah for Allah is swift in punishment." [Al-Hashr, 59:7]
The Arabic word "Ma" in the verse is a form of generality, thus it indicates the obligation of acting upon all the duties, and to refrain from all the prohibitions. The request of taking and refraining in the verse is decisive and it is obligatory, because there is a conjunction acting as evidence about this at the end of the verse where Allah سبحانه وتعالى orders us to be pious and warns us against the severe punishment awaiting those who do not take all that the Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم has brought and do not refrain from all that he صلى الله عليه وسلم prohibited.
Allah سبحانه وتعالى has also ordered His Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم to rule by what He revealed; He سبحانه وتعالى says:
وَأَنِ احْكُم بَيْنَهُم بِمَا أَنزَلَ اللّهُ
"And rule between them by what Allah has revealed." [Al-Maida, 5:49]
This is a decisive command from Allah سبحانه وتعالى to His Messenger and to all the Muslim rulers after him, to rule by all the rules that He سبحانه وتعالى has revealed, whether these were commands or prohibitions, for again the word "Ma"" in the verse indicates the form of generality, thus it engulfs all the revealed rules.
Allah سبحانه وتعالى has also forbidden His Messenger, as well as all the Muslim rulers after him, from following people's whims and submitting to their desires, for He سبحانه وتعالى says:
وَلاَ تَتَّبِعْ أَهْوَاءهُمْ
"And do not follow their vain desires." [Al-Maida, 5:49]
He سبحانه وتعالى has also warned His Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم and all the rulers after him against falling for people's corruption and against being lured away from implementing what Allah سبحانه وتعالى has revealed to him. Allah سبحانه وتعالىhas described he who rules by other than what He revealed as being a disbeliever if he were to believe in what he ruled by, or if he were to believe in the invalidity of what Allah سبحانه وتعالى has revealed. He سبحانه وتعالى says:
وَمَن لَّمْ يَحْكُم بِمَا أَنزَلَ اللّهُ فَأُوْلَـئِكَ هُمُ الْكَافِرُونَ
"And whoever does not rule by what Allah has revealed, they are the disbelievers." [Al-Maida, 5:44]
He سبحانه وتعالى described he who rules by other than what He revealed, without believing in what he rules by, as a fasiq (rebel) and dhalim (wrongdoer).
The implementation of the Islamic rules must be complete, comprehensive and simultaneous, not gradual, for the gradual implementation flagrantly contradicts the Islamic rules, and this would render he who does not implement all of Allah's rules, or he who implements some and ignores some of the rules, a disbeliever if he did not believe in the validity of Islam, or if he did not believe in the validity of even some of the Shari'ah rules which he had ignored; it would also render him a rebel and a wrongdoer if he were not implementing all of the Islamic rules but he still believed in the validity of implementing Islam.
Therefore, there should be no complacency in the implementation of all the Shari'ah rules, nor should there be any gradual implementation of the rules, for there is no difference between one obligation and another, nor is there a difference between a prohibition and another, nor between a rule and another; the rules of Allah سبحانه وتعالى are equal and they must all be all implemented without any delay, postponement or graduation, otherwise the following verse would apply to those who do so. Allah سبحانه وتعالى says:
أَفَتُؤْمِنُونَ بِبَعْضِ الْكِتَابِ وَتَكْفُرُونَ بِبَعْضٍ فَمَا جَزَاء مَن يَفْعَلُ ذَلِكَ مِنكُمْ إِلاَّ خِزْيٌ فِي الْحَيَاةِ الدُّنْيَا وَيَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ يُرَدُّونَ إِلَى أَشَدِّ الْعَذَابِ وَمَا اللّهُ بِغَافِلٍ عَمَّا تَعْمَلُونَ
"So do you believe in some part of the Book and disbelieve in some. The penalty awaiting those who do this is nothing but humiliation in this life and the severest of punishment on the day of Judgement. For Allah is aware of all you do." [Al-Baqara, 2:85]
Therefore, there is no excuse for not implementing all of the rules of Islam; pretexts such as the inability to implement the Islamic rules, or the absence of the appropriate circumstances, or the fact that the world public opinion is against the implementation of Shari'ah, or that the superpowers do not allow us to implement it, or any other trivial excuses that have no value whatsoever, are unacceptable.
The Islamic state is a human state and not a holy one, and the Khulafa' and Imams who run her are human beings, they have no holiness nor infallibility. It is the Ummah who appoints them and not Allah سبحانه وتعالى, for Allah has ordained the authority i.e. the rule to the Ummah, and He سبحانه وتعالى has delegated the appointment of the Khaleefah to her by the Baya'a (pledge of allegiance), so that he undertakes the rule and the authority on her behalf.
Abdullah Ibn Amr Ibn Al-A'as reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم say: "Whoso pledged allegiance to an Imam giving him the clasp of his hand and the fruit of his heart shall obey him as much as he can."
Abdullah Ibn Umar reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم say: "And whoso dies while there was no allegiance on his neck dies a death of the days of ignorance."
The Khaleefah implements the Shari'ah rules on behalf of the Ummah, and he who resumes the post of the Khaleefah would be entrusted with all the mandatory powers of rule and authority, and he would reserve the right to adopt the systems, laws and rules. He who undertakes the post of Khaleefah would merely be a human, it is possible that he could err, forget, lie, betray or rebel, he would not be infallible, for infallibility is exclusive to the Prophets and Messengers.
The Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم has informed us that the Imam, who is the Khaleefah, can make mistakes, and he could commit an injustice or a sin, which would make people hate him for it, or curse him; he صلى الله عليه وسلم informed us that he may commit flagrant disbelief. All this contradicts infallibility and negates that the Imam and Khaleefah could be infallible.
Muslim reported on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم said: "Behold, the Imam is but a shield from behind which people fight and by which they protect themselves."
Muslim also reported on the authority of Auf Ibn Malik that the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم said: "The best of your Imams are those whom you love and they love you, and who pray for you and you pray for them, and the worst of your Imams are those whom you hate and they hate you and you curse them and they curse you."
Bukhari also reported on the authority of Ubada Ibn us-Samit who said: The Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم called upon us so we gave him the pledge of allegiance. We pledge ourselves to him in complete obedience, in well and woe, in ease and hardship in preference over ourselves, and that we would not dispute with the people in authority; and he صلى الله عليه وسلم said: "Unless you witness an act of flagrant disbelief of which you have proof from Allah."
These Ahadith serve as a clear indication that the Imam or the Khaleefah can make mistakes, and he can commit a sin, which indicates clearly that the Imam or the Khaleefah are not infallible.
Therefore, Allah سبحانه وتعالى has ordered the Muslims to hold the ruler accountable; this He سبحانه وتعالى made their right, for the ruler has no holiness, and no infallibility, and because he may make mistakes, and he may commit a sin and even acts of disbelief, despite the fact that he is their representative in rule and authority, and despite the fact that it is them who appoint him.
Allah سبحانه وتعالى says:
وَلْتَكُن مِّنكُمْ أُمَّةٌ يَدْعُونَ إِلَى الْخَيْرِ وَيَأْمُرُونَ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ وَيَنْهَوْنَ عَنِ الْمُنكَرِ
"And let there arise out of you a group calling to the Goodness, commanding what is right and forbidding what is evil." [Al-Imran, 3:104]
When the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم was asked: "What is the best Jihad?" He صلى الله عليه وسلم replied: ‘A word of truth uttered before a tyrant man of authority.'"
He صلى الله عليه وسلم also said: "The master of martyrs is Hamza Ibn Abdul-Muttalib, and a man who stood up to a tyrant Imam to command him and prohibit him and was killed."
In the Sunan (book of Hadith) of Abu Dawood on the authority of Abdullah Ibn Mas'ud, the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم is reported to have said: "No by Allah, you shall command what is right and forbid what is evil, and you shall hold the hand of the oppressor and you shall curb him and confine him to following the truth."
In another narration of Ibnu Mas'ud's Hadith he صلى الله عليه وسلم added: "Or Allah shall strike animosity between your hearts and then He shall curse you just like He cursed them."
Islam commands us in some cases to go further than just holding the ruler accountable with our tongues, it commands us to take-up arms against the Khaleefah if he showed acts of flagrant disbelief that was not there in the first instance, as mentioned in the narration of Ubada Ibnus-Samit: "And that we shall not dispute with the people in authority"; and he صلى الله عليه وسلم said: "Unless you witness an act of flagrant disbelief of which you have proof from Allah."
O Muslims, this is the Islamic state which Allah سبحانه وتعالى has commanded all the Muslims to establish, and which we invite you to work with us towards establishing, in order to bring about a "Khilafah Rashida" on the method of Prophethood, and realise the goodness in which the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم said: "And then it will be a Khilafah Rashida on the method of Prophethood"
khilafah
The westerners for instance, despite the different viewpoints they hold towards the reality of the state and towards the type of rule within the state, whether this were religious, as was the case in the medieval times, or dictatorial or democratic, all agree that the state is reflected in the land, its peoples and its rulers, and that these three represent the cornerstones of the state. To them, the state is established over a specific peace of land, in which a specific group of people live permanently, and over whom a ruling authority presides.
As for the Islamic state, it is a ruling authority, and a political entity that looks after the citizens' affairs according to the Shari'ah rules; in other words, it is a Khaleefah ruling by what Allah سبحانه وتعالى has revealed and carrying Islam as a Message to the entire world. Allah سبحانه وتعالى has decreed that the Islamic state should be the method to implement the Shari'ah rules and to carry Islam by way of Da'awa and Jihad as a Message of guidance and light to the whole world.
The Islamic state does not consider its territory, nor its specific group of people as her cornerstones, although she has to have citizens for whom she runs their affairs, and a piece of land on which she is established; however, her citizens are growing in numbers at all times, and they include different races and colours; also the land over which she rules must not be confined within certain borders, but it must be expanding at all times. This is so because the Islamic state has a universal Message, and because Allah سبحانه وتعالى has ordered her to carry that Message to the whole world, and to invite all people, be they black, white, brown, yellow, Arab, non-Arab, European, American or Russian to Islam, and to enter into the Deen of Allah سبحانه وتعالى. Therefore, any race and any people, who respond to the call, and believe in Islam, would become part of the state's subjects, and their land becomes part of her land. Also, any land which the Islamic state carries the Message to and conquers by way of Jihad, that land becomes part of her land and under her authority and her rule, even if its people did not embrace Islam.
The state as it stands, is born out of new thoughts on which it bases itself; the authority in the state changes when these thoughts change once power is seized. For when the thoughts turn into concepts and convictions, one's behaviour is affected, and he becomes fashioned by these concepts, thus his viewpoint vis-a-vis life would change, and consequently his viewpoint towards relationships and interests change as well. The authority is established in order to look after the people's affairs, relationships and interests.
The Islamic state was established by the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم as soon as he set foot in Madinah, after he had taken the second pledge (Baya'a) of Al-Aqaba from the Ansar, a pledge of protection and war, and a pledge to hand the authority in Madinah to the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم. The birth of the Islamic state was the result of a new Aqeeda and a host of new concepts adopted by those who believed in him صلى الله عليه وسلم; these concepts generated in his followers a new viewpoint about life, which in turn changed their viewpoint towards relationships and interests.
The Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم built the Islamic state in Madinah on the basis of this Aqeeda, and on the concepts which emanated from it, despite the fact that the verses of legislation had not been revealed yet. She was therefore a new state, built on a new Aqeeda, and on a host of new thoughts and concepts.
The Islamic state is unique in her nature, her structure, what she stands for and the basis on which she is built. She is completely different from the nature and the structure of all the existing states in the world. She is a state founded on the Islamic Aqeeda, the Aqeeda of "There is no god but Allah, Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah", which is a comprehensive thought about life, and according to which and to the concepts which emanated from it, the Muslims viewpoint about life has been determined; this viewpoint leads to the belief that life is created by a Creator, and that it is conducted by the commands and prohibitions of the Creator. For the Muslims, it is a foregone conclusion that there is no legislator but Allah سبحانه وتعالى,and that there is no sovereignty in this life and in this Islamic state except to the rule of Allah سبحانه وتعالى, not to the Ummah, nor the people, nor the ruler. Sovereignty is rather to the law of Allah alone.
Therefore, the Ummah and the ruler alike, have no mandatory powers to legislate any rule or any system or any law other than that revealed by Allah سبحانه وتعالى upon His Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم. Even if the Ummah were to commonly consent on legislating any rule that contradicts one of the Islamic rules, her consent would have no value whatsoever. So, if for instance, the Ummah were to consent on legalising Usury, under the pretext that the economy and the trade could not prosper without it, or if the Ummah were to consent on legitimising sexual relationships outside marriage, under the pretext that it is personal freedom, or if she were to prohibit the killing of the apostate from Islam, under the pretext that his killing would violate human rights, or if the state was to consent to have more than one doctrine or belief as a state or the succession to power of Muslims or even secular parties under the pretext of democracy, all these types of common consensus, if they ever took place, wouldn't have any consideration whatsoever, for they contradict the Islamic rules, the sovereignty of Shari'ah, and the belief that Allah is The Only Legislator, and not humans.
The fact that the Islamic Aqeeda acts as the basis of the Islamic state, means that there is no place for anyone, be they rulers, judges, intellectuals, politicians, members of the Shura council, Ummahs council or parliamentarians to legislate any rule in order to organise people's relationships, nor to adopt a constitution, or to adopt a system, or enact a state law to be implemented by the rulers in the Islamic state, if these were other than what Allah سبحانه وتعالى has revealed. It is also forbidden for the rulers to force people or even give them a choice in following systems and laws laid down by humans in order to run their affairs.
When the Khaleefah according to his mandatory powers adopts a constitution or a system or a law, he must take these from the Book of Allah سبحانه وتعالى and the Sunnah of His Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم, by way of either his own Ijtihad (exertion) or that of the Muslim jurisprudents and learned scholars. This necessitates that the Islamic state's constitution, her systems and laws be taken from what Allah سبحانه وتعالى revealed to His Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم, i.e. taken from the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger, and what they may guide to from the Qiyas (analogy made on Shari'ah texts) and the general consensus of the Sahaba.
It is therefore forbidden for the Islamic state to nurse any thought or to hold any concept, rule, constitution, law, or any criterion which does not emanate from the Islamic Aqeeda, and which is not derived from the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of His Messenger, or from a legitimate Qiyas or from the general consensus of the Sahaba. So it is therefore forbidden for the Islamic state to adopt the democratic way of life and the ruling systems democracy calls for, such as a multiplicity of beliefs, the succession to power of Muslims or those of secular belief, or the various types of freedoms, for all these do not emanate from the Islamic Aqeeda, nor are they taken from the Shari'ah rules, apart from the fact that they all contradict the Islamic rules. It is forbidden as well to have in the Islamic state any consideration to the concepts of nationalism, patriotism or autonomy (separation), because these concepts do not emanate from the Islamic aqeeda, and they all contradict Shari'ah rules, apart from the fact that the Islamic rules have abhorred and prohibited them and warned against adopting them. Furthermore, it is forbidden for the Islamic state to hold any monarchical, republican, dictatorial imperial concepts, for these do not emanate from the Islamic Aqeeda, and they are not taken from the Shari'ah rules, beside the fact that they contradict the Shari'ah rules.
Allah سبحانه وتعالى has commanded all the Muslims, including the rulers, to abide by Islam and to comprehensively implement all of its rules exactly as they have been revealed; Allah سبحانه وتعالى says:
وَمَا آتَاكُمُ الرَّسُولُ فَخُذُوهُ وَمَا نَهَاكُمْ عَنْهُ فَانتَهُوا وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ إِنَّ اللَّهَ شَدِيدُ الْعِقَابِ
"Do take all that the Messenger of Allah has brought to you, and do refrain and keep away from all that he prohibited for you, and fear Allah for Allah is swift in punishment." [Al-Hashr, 59:7]
The Arabic word "Ma" in the verse is a form of generality, thus it indicates the obligation of acting upon all the duties, and to refrain from all the prohibitions. The request of taking and refraining in the verse is decisive and it is obligatory, because there is a conjunction acting as evidence about this at the end of the verse where Allah سبحانه وتعالى orders us to be pious and warns us against the severe punishment awaiting those who do not take all that the Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم has brought and do not refrain from all that he صلى الله عليه وسلم prohibited.
Allah سبحانه وتعالى has also ordered His Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم to rule by what He revealed; He سبحانه وتعالى says:
وَأَنِ احْكُم بَيْنَهُم بِمَا أَنزَلَ اللّهُ
"And rule between them by what Allah has revealed." [Al-Maida, 5:49]
This is a decisive command from Allah سبحانه وتعالى to His Messenger and to all the Muslim rulers after him, to rule by all the rules that He سبحانه وتعالى has revealed, whether these were commands or prohibitions, for again the word "Ma"" in the verse indicates the form of generality, thus it engulfs all the revealed rules.
Allah سبحانه وتعالى has also forbidden His Messenger, as well as all the Muslim rulers after him, from following people's whims and submitting to their desires, for He سبحانه وتعالى says:
وَلاَ تَتَّبِعْ أَهْوَاءهُمْ
"And do not follow their vain desires." [Al-Maida, 5:49]
He سبحانه وتعالى has also warned His Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم and all the rulers after him against falling for people's corruption and against being lured away from implementing what Allah سبحانه وتعالى has revealed to him. Allah سبحانه وتعالىhas described he who rules by other than what He revealed as being a disbeliever if he were to believe in what he ruled by, or if he were to believe in the invalidity of what Allah سبحانه وتعالى has revealed. He سبحانه وتعالى says:
وَمَن لَّمْ يَحْكُم بِمَا أَنزَلَ اللّهُ فَأُوْلَـئِكَ هُمُ الْكَافِرُونَ
"And whoever does not rule by what Allah has revealed, they are the disbelievers." [Al-Maida, 5:44]
He سبحانه وتعالى described he who rules by other than what He revealed, without believing in what he rules by, as a fasiq (rebel) and dhalim (wrongdoer).
The implementation of the Islamic rules must be complete, comprehensive and simultaneous, not gradual, for the gradual implementation flagrantly contradicts the Islamic rules, and this would render he who does not implement all of Allah's rules, or he who implements some and ignores some of the rules, a disbeliever if he did not believe in the validity of Islam, or if he did not believe in the validity of even some of the Shari'ah rules which he had ignored; it would also render him a rebel and a wrongdoer if he were not implementing all of the Islamic rules but he still believed in the validity of implementing Islam.
Therefore, there should be no complacency in the implementation of all the Shari'ah rules, nor should there be any gradual implementation of the rules, for there is no difference between one obligation and another, nor is there a difference between a prohibition and another, nor between a rule and another; the rules of Allah سبحانه وتعالى are equal and they must all be all implemented without any delay, postponement or graduation, otherwise the following verse would apply to those who do so. Allah سبحانه وتعالى says:
أَفَتُؤْمِنُونَ بِبَعْضِ الْكِتَابِ وَتَكْفُرُونَ بِبَعْضٍ فَمَا جَزَاء مَن يَفْعَلُ ذَلِكَ مِنكُمْ إِلاَّ خِزْيٌ فِي الْحَيَاةِ الدُّنْيَا وَيَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ يُرَدُّونَ إِلَى أَشَدِّ الْعَذَابِ وَمَا اللّهُ بِغَافِلٍ عَمَّا تَعْمَلُونَ
"So do you believe in some part of the Book and disbelieve in some. The penalty awaiting those who do this is nothing but humiliation in this life and the severest of punishment on the day of Judgement. For Allah is aware of all you do." [Al-Baqara, 2:85]
Therefore, there is no excuse for not implementing all of the rules of Islam; pretexts such as the inability to implement the Islamic rules, or the absence of the appropriate circumstances, or the fact that the world public opinion is against the implementation of Shari'ah, or that the superpowers do not allow us to implement it, or any other trivial excuses that have no value whatsoever, are unacceptable.
The Islamic state is a human state and not a holy one, and the Khulafa' and Imams who run her are human beings, they have no holiness nor infallibility. It is the Ummah who appoints them and not Allah سبحانه وتعالى, for Allah has ordained the authority i.e. the rule to the Ummah, and He سبحانه وتعالى has delegated the appointment of the Khaleefah to her by the Baya'a (pledge of allegiance), so that he undertakes the rule and the authority on her behalf.
Abdullah Ibn Amr Ibn Al-A'as reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم say: "Whoso pledged allegiance to an Imam giving him the clasp of his hand and the fruit of his heart shall obey him as much as he can."
Abdullah Ibn Umar reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم say: "And whoso dies while there was no allegiance on his neck dies a death of the days of ignorance."
The Khaleefah implements the Shari'ah rules on behalf of the Ummah, and he who resumes the post of the Khaleefah would be entrusted with all the mandatory powers of rule and authority, and he would reserve the right to adopt the systems, laws and rules. He who undertakes the post of Khaleefah would merely be a human, it is possible that he could err, forget, lie, betray or rebel, he would not be infallible, for infallibility is exclusive to the Prophets and Messengers.
The Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم has informed us that the Imam, who is the Khaleefah, can make mistakes, and he could commit an injustice or a sin, which would make people hate him for it, or curse him; he صلى الله عليه وسلم informed us that he may commit flagrant disbelief. All this contradicts infallibility and negates that the Imam and Khaleefah could be infallible.
Muslim reported on the authority of Abu Hurayra that the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم said: "Behold, the Imam is but a shield from behind which people fight and by which they protect themselves."
Muslim also reported on the authority of Auf Ibn Malik that the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم said: "The best of your Imams are those whom you love and they love you, and who pray for you and you pray for them, and the worst of your Imams are those whom you hate and they hate you and you curse them and they curse you."
Bukhari also reported on the authority of Ubada Ibn us-Samit who said: The Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم called upon us so we gave him the pledge of allegiance. We pledge ourselves to him in complete obedience, in well and woe, in ease and hardship in preference over ourselves, and that we would not dispute with the people in authority; and he صلى الله عليه وسلم said: "Unless you witness an act of flagrant disbelief of which you have proof from Allah."
These Ahadith serve as a clear indication that the Imam or the Khaleefah can make mistakes, and he can commit a sin, which indicates clearly that the Imam or the Khaleefah are not infallible.
Therefore, Allah سبحانه وتعالى has ordered the Muslims to hold the ruler accountable; this He سبحانه وتعالى made their right, for the ruler has no holiness, and no infallibility, and because he may make mistakes, and he may commit a sin and even acts of disbelief, despite the fact that he is their representative in rule and authority, and despite the fact that it is them who appoint him.
Allah سبحانه وتعالى says:
وَلْتَكُن مِّنكُمْ أُمَّةٌ يَدْعُونَ إِلَى الْخَيْرِ وَيَأْمُرُونَ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ وَيَنْهَوْنَ عَنِ الْمُنكَرِ
"And let there arise out of you a group calling to the Goodness, commanding what is right and forbidding what is evil." [Al-Imran, 3:104]
When the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم was asked: "What is the best Jihad?" He صلى الله عليه وسلم replied: ‘A word of truth uttered before a tyrant man of authority.'"
He صلى الله عليه وسلم also said: "The master of martyrs is Hamza Ibn Abdul-Muttalib, and a man who stood up to a tyrant Imam to command him and prohibit him and was killed."
In the Sunan (book of Hadith) of Abu Dawood on the authority of Abdullah Ibn Mas'ud, the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم is reported to have said: "No by Allah, you shall command what is right and forbid what is evil, and you shall hold the hand of the oppressor and you shall curb him and confine him to following the truth."
In another narration of Ibnu Mas'ud's Hadith he صلى الله عليه وسلم added: "Or Allah shall strike animosity between your hearts and then He shall curse you just like He cursed them."
Islam commands us in some cases to go further than just holding the ruler accountable with our tongues, it commands us to take-up arms against the Khaleefah if he showed acts of flagrant disbelief that was not there in the first instance, as mentioned in the narration of Ubada Ibnus-Samit: "And that we shall not dispute with the people in authority"; and he صلى الله عليه وسلم said: "Unless you witness an act of flagrant disbelief of which you have proof from Allah."
O Muslims, this is the Islamic state which Allah سبحانه وتعالى has commanded all the Muslims to establish, and which we invite you to work with us towards establishing, in order to bring about a "Khilafah Rashida" on the method of Prophethood, and realise the goodness in which the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم said: "And then it will be a Khilafah Rashida on the method of Prophethood"
khilafah
word of pride dar al ghoroor
Isn’t everything is forthcoming,
And everyone has his own destiny on earth
People like to live long lives but death is creeping to them
Time is a witness on people, between distracted and pointed arrow
Many people we saw passing away
They all went to an embracing hole
Where the dear ones are safe
He is always deficient
One day he is young and another he grows old
Doesn’t man wander at himself as it ages
If you find fault with something, Don’t do it
Leave what you suspect for what is not suspicious
Are you deceived with a bright day, a dark night or a setting sun
Don’t think that it is a world of pride
Don’t you get that you are stranger in it
By Ahmed Bukhater
And everyone has his own destiny on earth
People like to live long lives but death is creeping to them
Time is a witness on people, between distracted and pointed arrow
Many people we saw passing away
They all went to an embracing hole
Where the dear ones are safe
He is always deficient
One day he is young and another he grows old
Doesn’t man wander at himself as it ages
If you find fault with something, Don’t do it
Leave what you suspect for what is not suspicious
Are you deceived with a bright day, a dark night or a setting sun
Don’t think that it is a world of pride
Don’t you get that you are stranger in it
By Ahmed Bukhater
Omar ibn Abdulaziz rahimahullah
Is one of the greatest muslim leaders and scholars as well.
All the historians and shcolars who documented his life mentioned so. Imam athahabi documented some of his sayings about Iman and following the sunnah.
he was considered the fifth kaliphat.
Omar Bin Abdul Aziz did not lay much stress on military glory. He paid greater attention to internal administration, economic development and consolidation of his State. The siege of Constantinople was raised. In Spain, the Muslim armies crossed the Pyrennes and penetrated as far as Toulouse in central France.
His short reign was like a merciful rain which brought universal blessings. One of its special features was that almost all Berbers in Northern Africa as well as the nobility of Sind embraced Islam of their own accord.
Omar Bin Abdul Aziz was a unique ruler from every point of view. The high standard of administration set by him could only be rivalled by the first four Caliphs of Islam.
Umar bin Abdul Aziz was born approximately 50 years after Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)’s death. His mother was the grand daughter of Hadhrat ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab (the 2nd Caliph). Born of a royal family, his father was an important figure in the Egyptian provinces and it is reported that his earning was 50 000 pounds annually. ‘Umar lived like a grandee and his food, dress and habits were that of a prince. His lifestyle at the time did not hint towards any of the tasks he would undertake in his later years but he had training in Hadith and Fiqh, was a first-rate Muhaddith, with great authority on Fiqh.
‘Umar was confronted with obstacles of non-Islam brought about by his own immediate family’s elders, where a general moral degeneration had set in all the Muslim countries involving all classes of society. The collective life of the people did not bear any impression of the guidance of the Qur’an and the Sunna. The lives of luxury led by the ruling few and greed had caused many people a grave economic set-back and the levying of undue taxes had made their lives all the more miserable. (Very much like today’s Islam and its ruling elite.)
Such were the conditions when ‘Umar iinherited the throne, when he was 37 years old. He declared that people were not bound, but free to elect anybody they pleased as their Caliph. The people were only willing to elect him as their leader. Straight away he dismissed the false ruling pride, court practices of worldly kings and pledged himself to a simple life of a Caliph. He levelled the royal household to that of the common Muslims and all estates in the possession of the royal family, including his own, were returned to the public treasury. Unlawfully seized property was returned to their rightful owners and ‘Umar’s annual income of 50 000 pounds was reduced to 200 pounds a year. He rejected all monetary reward for his services as Caliph. After setting the house hold affairs in order, he turned to reform the government system and he removed unjust governors and launched a search for righteous men to replace them. He also obliged all despotic government officials to adhere to justice and peace and he abolished all unlawful taxes and re-organised the system of collecting Zakat.
‘Umar granted non-Muslims their rights and privileges under the Shari’ah. He enforced the Islamic principles of equity and fair-play over the shadows of the unjust royal influence. He revived the true spirit of practising the Shari'ah, and arranged for education of the masses. ‘Umar drew attention to the Glorious Qur'an sciences, Hadith and Fiqh and as a result, he succeeded in generating a powerful intellectual movement and eventually produced the four great Imams.
‘Umar enforced total prohibition and discouraged all ease-loving tendencies left from the rule of the monarch. Thus he achieved the purpose for which Islam endeavours to establish its rule: “When we give them authority in the earth, they strive to establish Salat, make arrangements for the collection of Zakat, enforce good and forbid evil.” (22:41)
It is related that during the reign of Waleed, people would meet and talk about buildings and gardens, under Suleiman bin Abdul Malik their main interest was sex, but when ‘‘Umar bin ‘Abdul ‘Aziz became Caliph, conditions quickly changed and Salat, Fasting and the Glorious Quran became the popular subjects for conversation.’ Non-Muslims were so impressed that they embraced Islam in thousands, even the neighbouring non-Muslims willingly embraced Islam as well.
‘Umar ibn ‘Abdul ‘Aziz was the first Mujaddid of Islam and did work for more than two and a half years to revolutionise life in all its various aspects. The Umayyad's felt threatened by this man that they conspired against him to his death by poisoning him at the young age of 39. He cleansed the social life of the Muslims of the evil influence left by the Umayyad’s and prepared them morally and intellectually to burden the responsibilities of leadership and revival, ‘Umar covered every aspect in reviving Islam. However he remained deficient in one area: he could not abolish the monarchy. (Which today, should be removed from every Muslim state, Insha’Allah?)
Wa Allah A'lam
All the historians and shcolars who documented his life mentioned so. Imam athahabi documented some of his sayings about Iman and following the sunnah.
he was considered the fifth kaliphat.
Omar Bin Abdul Aziz did not lay much stress on military glory. He paid greater attention to internal administration, economic development and consolidation of his State. The siege of Constantinople was raised. In Spain, the Muslim armies crossed the Pyrennes and penetrated as far as Toulouse in central France.
His short reign was like a merciful rain which brought universal blessings. One of its special features was that almost all Berbers in Northern Africa as well as the nobility of Sind embraced Islam of their own accord.
Omar Bin Abdul Aziz was a unique ruler from every point of view. The high standard of administration set by him could only be rivalled by the first four Caliphs of Islam.
Umar bin Abdul Aziz was born approximately 50 years after Prophet Muhammad (pbuh)’s death. His mother was the grand daughter of Hadhrat ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab (the 2nd Caliph). Born of a royal family, his father was an important figure in the Egyptian provinces and it is reported that his earning was 50 000 pounds annually. ‘Umar lived like a grandee and his food, dress and habits were that of a prince. His lifestyle at the time did not hint towards any of the tasks he would undertake in his later years but he had training in Hadith and Fiqh, was a first-rate Muhaddith, with great authority on Fiqh.
‘Umar was confronted with obstacles of non-Islam brought about by his own immediate family’s elders, where a general moral degeneration had set in all the Muslim countries involving all classes of society. The collective life of the people did not bear any impression of the guidance of the Qur’an and the Sunna. The lives of luxury led by the ruling few and greed had caused many people a grave economic set-back and the levying of undue taxes had made their lives all the more miserable. (Very much like today’s Islam and its ruling elite.)
Such were the conditions when ‘Umar iinherited the throne, when he was 37 years old. He declared that people were not bound, but free to elect anybody they pleased as their Caliph. The people were only willing to elect him as their leader. Straight away he dismissed the false ruling pride, court practices of worldly kings and pledged himself to a simple life of a Caliph. He levelled the royal household to that of the common Muslims and all estates in the possession of the royal family, including his own, were returned to the public treasury. Unlawfully seized property was returned to their rightful owners and ‘Umar’s annual income of 50 000 pounds was reduced to 200 pounds a year. He rejected all monetary reward for his services as Caliph. After setting the house hold affairs in order, he turned to reform the government system and he removed unjust governors and launched a search for righteous men to replace them. He also obliged all despotic government officials to adhere to justice and peace and he abolished all unlawful taxes and re-organised the system of collecting Zakat.
‘Umar granted non-Muslims their rights and privileges under the Shari’ah. He enforced the Islamic principles of equity and fair-play over the shadows of the unjust royal influence. He revived the true spirit of practising the Shari'ah, and arranged for education of the masses. ‘Umar drew attention to the Glorious Qur'an sciences, Hadith and Fiqh and as a result, he succeeded in generating a powerful intellectual movement and eventually produced the four great Imams.
‘Umar enforced total prohibition and discouraged all ease-loving tendencies left from the rule of the monarch. Thus he achieved the purpose for which Islam endeavours to establish its rule: “When we give them authority in the earth, they strive to establish Salat, make arrangements for the collection of Zakat, enforce good and forbid evil.” (22:41)
It is related that during the reign of Waleed, people would meet and talk about buildings and gardens, under Suleiman bin Abdul Malik their main interest was sex, but when ‘‘Umar bin ‘Abdul ‘Aziz became Caliph, conditions quickly changed and Salat, Fasting and the Glorious Quran became the popular subjects for conversation.’ Non-Muslims were so impressed that they embraced Islam in thousands, even the neighbouring non-Muslims willingly embraced Islam as well.
‘Umar ibn ‘Abdul ‘Aziz was the first Mujaddid of Islam and did work for more than two and a half years to revolutionise life in all its various aspects. The Umayyad's felt threatened by this man that they conspired against him to his death by poisoning him at the young age of 39. He cleansed the social life of the Muslims of the evil influence left by the Umayyad’s and prepared them morally and intellectually to burden the responsibilities of leadership and revival, ‘Umar covered every aspect in reviving Islam. However he remained deficient in one area: he could not abolish the monarchy. (Which today, should be removed from every Muslim state, Insha’Allah?)
Wa Allah A'lam
Du'a
"Our Lord! do not punish us if we forget or make mistake; Our Lord! do not lay on us a burden as Thou didst lay on those before us; Our Lord! do not impose upon us that which we have not the strength to bear; and pardon us and grant us protection and have mercy on us, Thou art our Patron, so help us against the unbelieving people."
رَبَّنَا لاَ تُؤَاخِذْنَا إِن نَّسِينَا أَوْ أَخْطَأْنَا رَبَّنَا وَلاَ تَحْمِلْ عَلَيْنَا إِصْرًا كَمَا حَمَلْتَهُ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِنَا رَبَّنَا وَلاَ تُحَمِّلْنَا مَا لاَ طَاقَةَ لَنَا بِهِ وَاعْفُ عَنَّا وَاغْفِرْ لَنَا وَارْحَمْنَآ أَنتَ مَوْلاَنَا فَانصُرْنَا عَلَى الْقَوْمِ الْكَافِرِينَ
Rabbanna la tu'a-khidhna in-nasina aw akh-ta'na, Rabbanna wa la tahmil 'alayna isran kama hamaltahu 'ala-lladhina min qablina, Rab-bana wa la tuhammilna ma la taqata lana bih, wa-'fu 'anna waghfirlana warhamna anta Maulana fansurna 'alal-qawmil kaafirin.(2:286)
رَبَّنَا لاَ تُؤَاخِذْنَا إِن نَّسِينَا أَوْ أَخْطَأْنَا رَبَّنَا وَلاَ تَحْمِلْ عَلَيْنَا إِصْرًا كَمَا حَمَلْتَهُ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِنَا رَبَّنَا وَلاَ تُحَمِّلْنَا مَا لاَ طَاقَةَ لَنَا بِهِ وَاعْفُ عَنَّا وَاغْفِرْ لَنَا وَارْحَمْنَآ أَنتَ مَوْلاَنَا فَانصُرْنَا عَلَى الْقَوْمِ الْكَافِرِينَ
Rabbanna la tu'a-khidhna in-nasina aw akh-ta'na, Rabbanna wa la tahmil 'alayna isran kama hamaltahu 'ala-lladhina min qablina, Rab-bana wa la tuhammilna ma la taqata lana bih, wa-'fu 'anna waghfirlana warhamna anta Maulana fansurna 'alal-qawmil kaafirin.(2:286)
Why do we pray?
After a long and hectic day at work, how difficult it is for a tired person to go out to the mosque and concentrate on his prayers to Allah, the Almighty. Snuggled up in a warm and cozy bed, how difficult it is to get up at the call of the Mu'adhin: "Come to prayer! Come to success!"
The famous doctor and philosopher, Ibn Sina (Avicenna), recalls such a moment in his life. One cold and icy night, he and his slave were resting at an inn in a remote part of Khurasan. During the night, he felt thirsty, so he called to his slave to bring him some water. The slave had no desire to leave his warm bed, so he pretended not to hear Ibn Sina’s call. But finally, after repeated calls, he reluctantly got up and went to fetch the water. A little while later, the melodious sound of the azaan (call to prayer) filled the air. Ibn Sina began to think about the person calling the people to prayer. "My slave, Abdullah, he mused, has always respected me and admired me. He seizes any opportunity to lavish praise and affection on me, but tonight he preferred his own comfort to my needs. On the other hand, look at this Persian slave of Allah: He left his warm bed to go out into the chilly night, he made ablution in the icy water of the stream, and then he ascended the high minaret of the mosque to glorify Him Whom he truly serves: "I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah. I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah."
Ibn Sina records: "I learned the essence of true love, that love which results in complete obedience." The love of Allaah demands total and unconditional obedience. Allah, the Almighty says: Say [oh, Muhammad!]: "If you love Allah, follow me: Allah will forgive you your sins, for Allah is Oft-forgiving, Most Merciful"
[Surah 3:31]
PRAYER: A CRY OF THE INNER SOUL
His arrogance and pride have often led man to behave as an oppressor and a tyrant. Some men have been carried away by their own self-importance that they have even claimed divinity. Pharoah, the ruler of Egypt, was among those who announced: "I am your supreme Lord!" With his sense of greatness and pride, Pharoah subjugated the Israelites and made their lives wretched and miserable.
But is man really as strong and great as his ego tells him? The Qur'an tells us the reality of man’s nature: "It is Allah Who created you in a state of weakness, then gave you strength after weakness, then after strength, gave you weakness and a hoary head: He creates what He wills, and He is the All-knowing, the All-powerful"
[Surah 30:54]
Weakness in the beginning and weakness in the end: This is the essence of man. He is so weak and helpless at birth that his entire existence depends on his parents and his family. If he were to be abandoned in these first crucial years, he could not survive on his own. He needs a gentle and loving hand, not only in his infancy, but in his childhood and even in his teenage years. As this child enters the years of youth and independence, he begins to take control of his own life. He looks with pride at his strong physique, his handsome features and his many talents. He begins to despise those of lesser abilities, even scorning his parents, who exhausted their own health to nurture him. He becomes unjust and cruel, using his strength and vigour to dominate others. He thinks he is master, free to act as he wills. But does this youth, these good looks last forever? In only a few decades, he begins to lose his strength…his youth is replaced by old age. Weakness in the beginning, weakness in the end."
The message is clear: The real Master is Allah. He Alone is Mighty, He Alone, is Great. He Alone is never tired, never needs rest, is never dependent upon anyone. Allahu Akbar! - Allah is the Greatest! In our everyday lives, we say a warm thank you for the small acts of kindness which others do for us. So what about thanking Allah, Who, in His infinite Mercy, has provided for every single one of our needs. Just observe the beauty and perfection of the earth around you and fall down in gratitude to your Lord.
PRAYER: THE ASCENSION FOR A BELIEVER
After the Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) was commissioned for Prophethood, the first thing he was commanded to do by Allah was to pray. The angel Jibreel u came to him and a spring of water gushed out of the rocks in front of them. Jibreel u then showed Allah’s Messenger how to make ablution. He then showed him how to offer prayers to Allah. He began to pray two rak'ah twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. He then went home and showed his wife Khadijah what he had learnt from the angel Jibreel.
From that time, the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) never went through a day without praying. Just before his migration to Madinah, he was taken on a night journey to Jerusalem and then to the heavens (Mi'raj). During this journey, Allah, Almighty, ordered him to pray five times a day. This prayer was a gift given to every Believer to enable him to experience a spiritual ascension five times a day. The Prophet said: "The prayer is the Mi'raj of the Believer." It gives every Muslim the chance to communicate with his Lord. During each prayer, the Muslim recites Surah Al-Fatihah: This recitation is not a dull monologue by the Believer, but Allah promises that it is a conversation between Him and the worshipper. The Messenger of Allah reported that Allah, the Almighty says: ‘When my slave says in his prayer: "All praise is for Allah, the Lord of the worlds," I say: "My slave has praised Me" When he says: "The Merciful, the Compassionate, Master of the Day of Judgement," I say: "My slave has glorified Me." When he says: "You Alone we worship and your Aid we seek," I say: "This is between Me and My slave." When he says: "Show us the Straight Path," I say: "This is for My slave, and I give My slave what he wants."[Hadith Qudsi] The number of prayers in a day have been set at five by Allah almighty. The believer has no choice in the matter but to obey. To reduce the number of prayers would not only be disobedience, it would also lose the benefits of prayer.
For example, a room is only good fro residence if it has four walls and a roof. If only one wall or the roof were to be removed, what use could it be? Similarly, the prayer will only achieve its purpose and be of use on the Day when nothing except one's deeds will be of use, if it is observed in the prescribed manner.
PRAYER: A PILLAR OF ISLAM
The Messenger of Alah once said: "Prayer is the pillar of religion.'
[Al-Baihaqi]
He also informed us that Islam is built upon five pillars, the second being to establish prayer five times a day.
[Sahih Al-Bukhari]
This makes the image very clear: Islam is like a building supported by five columns; remove just one column and the entire building weakens. In the same way, when a person stops praying, his faith becomes weak, and the mildest blows can cause it to crumble. The prayer is so very important that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'Verily, between man and polytheism and disbelief is abandoning prayer'
[Muslim]How true is this statement! If you look at people walking down the road, it may be difficult to distinguish Muslims from non-Muslims. Islam is not marked upon a believer's forehead, and neither is Kufr stamped on an infidel's face. But at the time of prayer, you can separate the two groups with ease. The believer will abandon his work, his business to join the rows of Muslims in prayer, while the disbeliever will carry on with his worldly affairs.
Surah Al-Muddathir narrates an interesting dialogue which will take place on the Day of Judgement. The believers will ask the people of Hell-fire:
"What has caused you to enter Hell?" They will say: "We were not of those who used to offer their prayers. Nor we used to feed the poor; and we used to talk falsehoods (all that which Allah hated) with vain talkers, and we used to belie the Day of Recompense. Until there came to use (the death) that is certain."
[Surah 72 :42-47]
The rejecters of truth are silent in this world, but in the next world they will themselves speak the truth.
PRAYER IS LIKE A FORTRESS
Prayer is the basis of all good actions. Below are quoted two passages of the Quran, both of which list a number of good actions. Prayer comes before and after all good actions:-
A. Surah al-Muminun [23: 1-11]
"Successful indeed are the believers. Those who offer their Salat (prayers) with all solemnity and full submissiveness. And those who turn away from Al-Laghw (dirty, false, evil vain talk, falsehoods and all that Allah has forbidden). And those who pay the Zakat. And those who guard their chastity (i.e. private parts, from illegal sexual acts). Except from their wives or (the captives and slaves) that their right hands possess, -for then, they are free from blame. But whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors. Those who are faithfully true to their trusts and to their covenants. And those who strictly guard their Salat (five compulsory congregational prayers at their fixed stated hours). These are indeed the inheritors. Who shall inherit the Firdaus (Paradise). They shall dwell therein forever."
B. Surah Al-Marif: [70: 19-35]
"Verily, man (disbeliever) was created very impatient; irritable (discontented) when evil touches him; and niggardly when good touches him. Except those devoted to Salat (prayers), those who remain constant in their Salat (prayers), and those in whose wealth there is a known right, for the beggar who asks, and for the unlucky who has lost his property and wealth, (and his means of living has been straitened). And those who believe in the Day of Recompense, and those who fear the torment of their Lord. Verily! The torment of their Lord is that before which none can feel secure. And those who guard their chastity (ie, private parts from illegal sexual acts), except with their wives and the (women slaves and captives) whom their right hands possess, -for (then) they are not to be blames. But whosoever seeks beyond that, then it is those who are trespassers. And those who keep their trusts and covenants, and those who stand firm in their testimonies, and those who guard their Salat (prayers) well; such shall dwell in the Gardens (i.e. Paradise) honored."
In these passages, the believers are said to have certain characteristics, the first of which they concentrate on their prayers. Other signs of believers are:
o They avoid vain and vulgar activities.
o They pay their Zakat regularly.
o They guard their chastity and avoid illicit relations. Their marital lives are confines to their wives and salve-girls (assuming such a situation exists in which the presence of slaves is justified).
o Those who do not betray covenants and trusts.
o Those who stand by their testimonies (as in Surah Al-Marij).
After mentioning these five characteristics, regularity in prayers is once again commended.
The quotation from Surah Al-Marij is similar to the one from Surah al-Muaminun. It shows that prayer is like a fortress which protects and preserves other good deeds. To guard one's prayer helps guard one's other virtues. The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said in a similar way:
"Prayer is the pillar of the religion" [Al-Baihaqi]
Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) also said:
"The first thing about which a mans is going to be questioned on the Day of Judgment is prayer. If it is found to be sound all his other reactions will be sound as well. If his prayer is not sound all his remaining actions would be spoiled." [Al-Tabarani]
Which Prayer is acceptable?
"Those who offer their Salat (prayers) with all solemnity and full submissiveness." [23: 2]
The emphasis , in this verse, is on humility and concentration in the prayer (Khushu). There is no doubt that as Shaitan (Satan) is the most bitter enemy of man, he always tries to disturb the believer's prayer. As soon as a person begins his prayer, he finds his mind suddenly engulfed with memories, problems, worries, work and his family. He may become so engrossed in his thoughts that he has no idea where he is and what he is doing. His prayer becomes a series of automatic actions, and he will often find himself wondering whether he has prayed three Rakaa or four. This is how Shaitan steals the prayer.
The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) once said that only a tiny portion of the prayer, maybe as little as a tenth or an eighth, is accepted by Allah. The rest is lost because of the whisperings of Shaitan.
It is reported that a Successor saw a man playing with his beard while praying. He commented that: "If there had been Khushu (concentration) in his heart, the other organs of his body would have concentrated as well."
Surah Al-Ma'un also makes a reference to lifeless prayers:
"So woe unto those performers of prayers (hypocrites), who delay their Salat (prayer) from its stated fixed time" [107: 4,5]
A worshipper is neglectful of his prayers either when he delays the prayer to the last possible minute, or when he does not concentrate fully on what he is doing and saying.
Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) was once sitting in the mosque at Al-Madinah when a bedouin entered and began to pray. He prayed so quickly, that when he had finished, the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) asked him to repeat the prayer. His second attempt was just as hurried, so the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) asked him to repeat it again. After a third hurried prayer, the bedouin said: "O Messenger of Allah. I cannot pray better than this." The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) then showed the man how to pray. He instructed him to recite Surah Al-Fatihah while in the standing position, then to say Tasbih in the Ruku position, to stand upright saying Rabbana lakal hamd, to go down with Sajdah and recite Tasbih, and to sit between the two Sajdah and recite a Du'a. The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) advised the bedouin to do this in each Rakah.
[Musnad Ahmad]
Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) used to spend a lot of time on each prayer, so that each movement of the prayer could be offered slowly and properly. He once said: "A man's lengthy prayer and short sermon shows that he has a good understanding of the religion."
[Muslim, Abu Dawud]
This refers to the Friday Khutbah which should not be too long while the prayer should be lengthy.
PRAYER AS A WEAPON
Allah Almighty says in the Qur'an:
"O you who believer! Seek help in patience and Salat (prayer). Truly! Allah is with the patient."
[2: 153]
Man is, by nature, weak. He needs help at times of misery and hardship. And the best aid we can have is that of patience in adversity and prayer. Any difficulties, unhappiness and loss should be faced with calm and wisdom. A hasty response or an unwise remark will only cause more problems. Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) used to look for solace in prayer whenever he experienced difficulties. In prayer one seeks help from Allah, and who can be a better helper than Allah?
The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) used to say to Bilal:
"O Bilal! Provide us with rest with prayer."
PRAYER AS A REMINDER
A non-Muslim once asked the following question during a discussion: "I can understand why Muslims were required to pray five times a day during the early days of Islam. They did not have many things to do in those days so the Prophet kept them busy with prayer. But our sophisticated and modern life leaves man with little spare time. He is much too busy to be expected to pray five times a day."
The answer given was what is the primary objective of prayer. The Qur'an says:
"...and establish prayer for My Remembrance."
[20: 14]
As man is by nature forgetful, prayer reminds him of the allegiance due to his Creator and Lord. If prayer was needed fourteen hundred years ago when man did not lead such a busy life style, the it is even more necessary in today's hectic world. On the one hand, education and work keep people occupied constantly. And when it is time to relax. Shaitan (Satan) has found many new channels to operate through, such as television, the cinema and videos. Man becomes so engrossed in this life that he has no thought for Allah and the Hereafter. The need to remind man of the realities of his existence has thus intensified, and not declined in modern times. Prayer is still of utmost importance and benefit in our high-tech lives.
Prayer acts as a shield against evil. Allah Almighty says in the Qur'an:
"...Verily, As-salat (the prayer) prevents from Al-Fahsha (i.e. great sins of every kind, unlawful sexual intercourse etc. ) and al-Munkar (i.e. disbelief, polytheism, and every kind of evil wicked deed etc.)..."
[29: 45]
The following incident will help understand this point:
In the time of Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) lived a man who drank alcohol, gambled and committed thefts habitually.. He came to the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) and asked for some advice which would help improve his character. The Prophet's advice was simple; "don't tell any lies." The man then left, after having been told to report back the next day. he was feeling very pleased, as the instructions given to him seemed very easy to obey. At home the man poured himself his usual glass of wine. As he lifted the glass to his lips, he suddenly remembered that he had to report back to the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) the next day. he would be asked about that day's activities, and if he admitted in front of all the Companions that he had been drinking, it would be terribly embarrassing for him.
If, however, he did not admit to having drunk wine, it would be a lie. So he put the wine away. The same thing happened when he was about to start gambling and go on his robbing expedition. And once this man had taken the first positive step towards fighting his evil habits, he was able to reform very quickly.
Prayer can have a very similar effect. If a person remembers five times a day that he will stand on his prayer-mat and address his Lord, it will prevent him from committing the sins that Shaitan has been encouraging him to do.
The quality of the prayer is of utmost importance as well. consider a house with solid foundations, concrete walls and a strong roof. this house will be able to withstand all forms of bad weather, be it winds, hail or storms. After all, the purpose of a house is to provide shelter and protection against these elements. If, on the other hand, the house is loosely constructed with leaves and grass, it will blow away at the slightest hint of bad weather.
This image applies very clearly to prayer. If a prayer is offered regularly, at the correct time, with sincerity of intention and concentration on what is being recited, it will strengthen the person's Faith and provide comfort and strength in times of trouble.
Irregular and insincere prayers will be of little use to a person in times of distress. A healthy body can combat viruses with more ease that can a weak body.
PRAYER: THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS ESTABLISHING THE ISLAMIC SHARIAH AS A WHOLE
The Qur'an records the following conversation between Prophet Shuaib and his people:
"And to the Madyan (Midian) people (We sent) their brother Shuaib. He said: O my people! Worship Allah, you have no other Ilah (god) but Him, and give not short measure or weight, I see you in prosperity; and verily I fear for you the torment of a Day encompassing. And O my people! Give full measure and weight in justice and reduce no the things that are due to the people, and do not commit mischief in the land, causing corruption. That which is left by Allah for you (after giving the rights of the people) is better for you, if you are believers. And I am not sent over you as a guardian."
[11: 84-86]
This was an invitation to honor the Rights of Allah (by accepting Tawhid) and honor the rights (in daily trade and business). But Shuaib's people replied with sarcasm:
"They said: O Shuaib! Does your prayer (i.e., the prayers which you offer has spoiled your mind, so you) command that we leave off what our fathers used to worship, or that we leave off doing what we like with our property? Verily, you are the forbearer, right-minded!"
[11: 87]
Shuaib's people realized that the Prophet was not simply asking them to pray regularly but that he wanted them to establish a whole new economic system as well, hence the references to fair trading. The lesson to be learned from this is that in Islam, there is no leaving "What belongs to God, for God; and what belongs to Caesar, for Caesar." Everything belongs to God. How can a Muslim who worships Allah Almighty during his five daily prayers, be expected to obey others in other aspects of his daily life. There can be no duality of authority in Islam. Allah is the Creator , and His Alone is the right to legislate and demand loyalty. Man is the slave of Allah and should obey Him Alone.
Muslims who live in a non-Muslim state may feel that they are unable to implement the Din of Allah in their political and economic lives, but those Muslims who live in Muslim countries have no excuse for allowing the Din of Allah to be confined to a personal level.
Muslims should be clear that the Din of Allah does not consist simply of prayers, fasting, charity and Hajj. It is their duty to implement all Islamic teachings in political, economic and social fields.
"Truly, the religion with of Allah is Islam..." [3: 19]
"And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers". [3: 85]
Today's false idols, which dominate over the entire world, are Democracy, Capitalism, Socialism and communism. Instead, Islam calls for a Khilafa (caliphate) based on consultation, and a just economic system based on Zakat and a prohibition of usury. If you remove any of these three characteristics, you make it impossible for Islamic law to operate properly.
The Qur'an describes clearly the first duty of a Muslim ruler:
"Those (Muslim rulers) who, if We give them power in the land, (they) order for Iqamat-as-Salat{ (i.e. to offer prayers perfectly-the five compulsory, congregational prayers (the males in mosques)}, to pay the Zakat and they enjoin Al-Maruf (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam orders one to do), and forbid Al-Munkar (i.e., disbelief, polytheism and all that Islam has forbidden) {i.e. they make the Quran as the law of their country in all the spheres of life}. And with Allah rests the end of (all) matters (of creatures)."
[22: 41]
A well-known Arabic saying is: "The people follow the religion of their kings." Ordinary people enjoy imitating their rulers, and if those in authority set a good example by praying and fasting regularly, the people will be encouraged to do so as well. Those in power can also provide material assistance, such as the construction of mosques and prayer facilities in public places. The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) advised the people not to rebel against their leaders...as long as the leaders establish prayer and do not commit acts of open disobedience to Allah. This advice will save the Muslim nation from anarchy and useless bloodshed.
PRAYER AS AN EXPIATION OF SINS
Prayer not only stimulates a person to do good deeds, but it also takes away his minor sins.
"Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds (i.e. small sins)"
[11: 114]
As prayer is the best of all good actions, it can erase many sins. 'Ali narrated that Abu Bakr heard Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) saying:
'Whoever commits a sin, but performs ablution in the best way, then offers two Rakat prayer, and he asks for the forgiveness of Allah, Allah almighty forgives his sins'
[Ahmad]
This does not mean to say that a person can commit as many sins as he likes, as long as he follows each sin with a prayer. What Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) was showing is that repentance opens the door to forgiveness. Prayer is a form of repentance and should be offered with sincerity and a true desire to amend one's character. After repenting, the person's Faith should be revived, and he should fight all Satanic temptations to do evil.
In Surah Al-Furqan repentance is described as a way out for those who commit major sins:
"And those who invoke not any other Ilah (god) along with Allah, nor kill such life as Allah has forbidden, except for just cause, nor commit illegal sexual intercourse - and whoever does this shall receive the punishment. The torment will be doubled to him on the Day of Resurrection, and he will abide therein in disgrace. Except those who repent and believe (in Islamic Monotheism), and do righteous deeds, for those, Allah will change their sins into good deeds, and Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. And whosoever repents and does righteous good deeds, then verily, he repents towards Allah with true repentance"
[25: 68-71]
PRAYER: THE FIRST QUESTION ON THE DAY OF JUDGMENT
Man was sent to this world for only one purpose:
"And I (Allah) created not the jinns and men except they should worship Me (Alone)"
[51: 56]
Man is to live in this world as a worshipper of his Creator, and the best form of worship is prayer. On the Day of Judgment, man will have to answer for each and every deed committed on this earth. He will be asked about the bounties bestowed upon him in this life:
"Then, on that Day, you shall be asked about the delight (you indulged in, in this world)!
[102: 8]
But the first question to be asked on that Great Day will be about prayer. Man has two Mauqif (standing positions) in front of his Creator, one in this world and one in the next.
The first is his prayer-mat when he stands in regular prayer to his Lord. The second will be on Judgment Day when his actions will be brought forward as evidence. If his first stand (i.e. his prayer) is found to be correct, his second stand will be made easy for him. If his first stand was faulty, he will face immense difficulties in the second stand.
To intentionally neglect even a single prayer is a serious sin for which there can be no compensation. A Muslim is not to miss a prayer even in the terrifying moments of battle, so how can there be justification for missing his prayers in ordinary circumstances. during battle, the Imam leads same ranks of the contingent in one Rakat of the prayer, while the other soldiers continue to fight. The soldiers then change places, and the Imam leads the second group in prayer, while the first resumes fighting. This continues until everyone had prayed. This particular prayer is called Salat al-Khauf (Prayer of Fear) because of its unusual circumstances.
Another form of prayer is the shortened prayer, which is allowed during battle and traveling. The prayers which normally consist of four Rakaat i.e. Zuhr, Asr, and Isha) are shortened to two Rakaat, but in no circumstances can a prayer be missed. The only exemption available is for menstruating women, who are not required to pray during this time. At all other times women must pray just like men. So strict is the requirement of prayer that a person who is ill, no matter how seriously, must pray as long as he or she is in consciousness. If the person can not stand, then the prayer is offered in the sitting position; if the person is too ill to sit, then the prayer is offered in the lying position, using the eyes, head, hands, etc., to signal the different movements of the prayer.
PRAYER: A DUTY KNOWN TO EVERY PROPHET OF ALLAH
Prophet Ibrahim (alayhis salam) recited the following Du'a when he was raising the walls of the Ka'bah in Makkah:
"O our Lord! I have made some of my offspring to dwell in a valley with no cultivation, by Your Sacred House; in order, O our Lord, that they may offer prayers perfectly"
[14: 37]
While he prayed for himself and his children, Prophet Ibrahim did not ask for riches and fame. He pleaded instead:
"O my Lord! Make me one who offers prayers perfectly, and (also) from my offspring, our Lord! And accept my invocation. Our Lord! Forgive me and my parents, and (all) the believers on the Day when the reckoning will be established"
[14: 40-41]
Prophet Ismail (alayhis salam) has also been praised for his character in the Qur'an:
"And mention in the Book Ismail. Verily! He was true to what he promised, and he was a Messenger, (and) a Prophet. And he used to enjoin on his family and his people As-Salat (i.e. order them to offer the prayers perfectly) and the Zakat, and his Lord was pleased with him" [19: 54-55]
Prophet Zakariyyah (alayhis salam) was childless in his old age, and he yearned constantly for a son: "At that time Zakariyyah (Zachariah) invoked his Lord, saying:
'O my Lord! Grant me from You, a good offspring. You are indeed the All-Hearer of invocation.'"
[3: 38]
And while he was praying to Allah, he received the good news:
"Then the angels called him, while he was standing in prayer in Al-Mihrab (a praying place or a private room), (saying): 'Allah gives you glad tidings of Yahya (John) confirming (believing in) the Word from Allah {i.e. the creation of Jesus" (Be!"- and he was! )}, noble, keeping away from sexual relations with women, a Prophet, from among the righteous'"
[3: 39]
Prophet Isa (alayhis salam) received Divine communications while he was still a baby in his cradle: "...and has enjoined on me Salat (prayer), and Zakat, as long as I live"
[19: 31]
So the daily prayer is not a new act introduced by Allah's Messenger (pbuh). It is a form of personal communication with Allah, and it is as old as the first man on this planet.
Prayer cannot be an isolated act:
The Qur'an mentions the act of prayer about thirty-five times, but never alone. It always couples prayer with giving Zakat or spending on the poor and needy. The two are inseparable. The person who gives charity but does not pray five times a day is only earning the displeasure of Allah.
In the early days of his caliphate, Abu Bakr (radiAllahu anhu) went to war against those people who had stopped paying Zakat after the death of Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam). He said:
'By Allah! I will fight those who differentiate between Salat (prayer) and Zakat'
Another virtue which is mentioned with prayer in the Qur'an is patience:
"O you who believer! Seek help in patience and Salat (prayer). Truly! Allah is with the patient."
[2: 153]
Man is surrounded by external and internal problems. To deal with these, he has been given the two weapons of prayer and patience. Patience helps him withstand external hostilities and opposition. Prayer strengthens his internal relationship with God.
Another requirement alongside prayer is that of sacrifice, on the day of Eid during the time of Hajj:
"Therefore turn in prayer to your Lord and sacrifice (to Him only). For he who makes you angry (O Muhammad), - he will be cut off (from every good thing in this world and in the Hereafter)"
[108: 2-3]
This association of prayer and sacrifice is explained in Surah Al-A'nam:
"Say (O Muhammad): 'Verily, my prayer, my sacrifice, my living, and my dying are for Allah, the Lord of the Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists)'"
[6: 162]
Prayer is an act of life, and sacrifice symbolizes death. Whether our actions are concerned with life or death, our sole purpose must be the Pleasure of Allah. No sacrifice may be offered to any being other than Allah, just as no prayer is valid except if directed to Allah.
WHY DOES MAN ABANDON PRAYER?
Allah Almighty says:
"Then, there has succeeded them a posterity who have given up prayers (i.e. made their prayers to be lost, either by not offering them or by not offering them perfectly or by not offering them in their proper fixed times, etc.) and have followed lusts. so they will be thrown in Hell. Except those who repent and believe (in the Oneness of Allah and His Messenger Muhammad {pbuh}) and work righteousness. Such will enter Paradise and they will not be wronged in aught"
[19: 59-60]
Preceding this verse, the Qur'an gives the example of many previous Prophets and their guided followers. This particular verse explains that the people who abandon prayer are those who follow their own selfish desires. A man can either obey Allah, or he can obey his own wishes; and this obedience is equated to worship by the Qur'an:
"Have you (O Muhammad) seen him who has taken as his Ilah (god) his own desire? Would you then be a Wakil (a protecting guide) over him?" [25: 43]
Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) described such people as the sales of Dirhams and Dinars, and things have not change much since his time. Today, the Americans are described by a western author as - 'people who worship the dollar for six days a week, and then they turn to God on the seventh day!'
When a heart is filled with love for money, it has no room for God, and prayer is the first thing to be abandoned.
SUMMARY
Prayer is an obligation upon every Muslim, man and woman.
"...Verily, the prayer is enjoined on the believers at fixed hours" [4: 103]
Anas narrated that Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'Whoever forgets a prayer, he should offer it whenever he remembers. There is no expiation for it except this'
[All six report it except Malik]
May the Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon our Prophet and upon his family and upon all his followers.
Ameen.
The famous doctor and philosopher, Ibn Sina (Avicenna), recalls such a moment in his life. One cold and icy night, he and his slave were resting at an inn in a remote part of Khurasan. During the night, he felt thirsty, so he called to his slave to bring him some water. The slave had no desire to leave his warm bed, so he pretended not to hear Ibn Sina’s call. But finally, after repeated calls, he reluctantly got up and went to fetch the water. A little while later, the melodious sound of the azaan (call to prayer) filled the air. Ibn Sina began to think about the person calling the people to prayer. "My slave, Abdullah, he mused, has always respected me and admired me. He seizes any opportunity to lavish praise and affection on me, but tonight he preferred his own comfort to my needs. On the other hand, look at this Persian slave of Allah: He left his warm bed to go out into the chilly night, he made ablution in the icy water of the stream, and then he ascended the high minaret of the mosque to glorify Him Whom he truly serves: "I bear witness that there is none worthy of worship except Allah. I bear witness that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah."
Ibn Sina records: "I learned the essence of true love, that love which results in complete obedience." The love of Allaah demands total and unconditional obedience. Allah, the Almighty says: Say [oh, Muhammad!]: "If you love Allah, follow me: Allah will forgive you your sins, for Allah is Oft-forgiving, Most Merciful"
[Surah 3:31]
PRAYER: A CRY OF THE INNER SOUL
His arrogance and pride have often led man to behave as an oppressor and a tyrant. Some men have been carried away by their own self-importance that they have even claimed divinity. Pharoah, the ruler of Egypt, was among those who announced: "I am your supreme Lord!" With his sense of greatness and pride, Pharoah subjugated the Israelites and made their lives wretched and miserable.
But is man really as strong and great as his ego tells him? The Qur'an tells us the reality of man’s nature: "It is Allah Who created you in a state of weakness, then gave you strength after weakness, then after strength, gave you weakness and a hoary head: He creates what He wills, and He is the All-knowing, the All-powerful"
[Surah 30:54]
Weakness in the beginning and weakness in the end: This is the essence of man. He is so weak and helpless at birth that his entire existence depends on his parents and his family. If he were to be abandoned in these first crucial years, he could not survive on his own. He needs a gentle and loving hand, not only in his infancy, but in his childhood and even in his teenage years. As this child enters the years of youth and independence, he begins to take control of his own life. He looks with pride at his strong physique, his handsome features and his many talents. He begins to despise those of lesser abilities, even scorning his parents, who exhausted their own health to nurture him. He becomes unjust and cruel, using his strength and vigour to dominate others. He thinks he is master, free to act as he wills. But does this youth, these good looks last forever? In only a few decades, he begins to lose his strength…his youth is replaced by old age. Weakness in the beginning, weakness in the end."
The message is clear: The real Master is Allah. He Alone is Mighty, He Alone, is Great. He Alone is never tired, never needs rest, is never dependent upon anyone. Allahu Akbar! - Allah is the Greatest! In our everyday lives, we say a warm thank you for the small acts of kindness which others do for us. So what about thanking Allah, Who, in His infinite Mercy, has provided for every single one of our needs. Just observe the beauty and perfection of the earth around you and fall down in gratitude to your Lord.
PRAYER: THE ASCENSION FOR A BELIEVER
After the Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) was commissioned for Prophethood, the first thing he was commanded to do by Allah was to pray. The angel Jibreel u came to him and a spring of water gushed out of the rocks in front of them. Jibreel u then showed Allah’s Messenger how to make ablution. He then showed him how to offer prayers to Allah. He began to pray two rak'ah twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. He then went home and showed his wife Khadijah what he had learnt from the angel Jibreel.
From that time, the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) never went through a day without praying. Just before his migration to Madinah, he was taken on a night journey to Jerusalem and then to the heavens (Mi'raj). During this journey, Allah, Almighty, ordered him to pray five times a day. This prayer was a gift given to every Believer to enable him to experience a spiritual ascension five times a day. The Prophet said: "The prayer is the Mi'raj of the Believer." It gives every Muslim the chance to communicate with his Lord. During each prayer, the Muslim recites Surah Al-Fatihah: This recitation is not a dull monologue by the Believer, but Allah promises that it is a conversation between Him and the worshipper. The Messenger of Allah reported that Allah, the Almighty says: ‘When my slave says in his prayer: "All praise is for Allah, the Lord of the worlds," I say: "My slave has praised Me" When he says: "The Merciful, the Compassionate, Master of the Day of Judgement," I say: "My slave has glorified Me." When he says: "You Alone we worship and your Aid we seek," I say: "This is between Me and My slave." When he says: "Show us the Straight Path," I say: "This is for My slave, and I give My slave what he wants."[Hadith Qudsi] The number of prayers in a day have been set at five by Allah almighty. The believer has no choice in the matter but to obey. To reduce the number of prayers would not only be disobedience, it would also lose the benefits of prayer.
For example, a room is only good fro residence if it has four walls and a roof. If only one wall or the roof were to be removed, what use could it be? Similarly, the prayer will only achieve its purpose and be of use on the Day when nothing except one's deeds will be of use, if it is observed in the prescribed manner.
PRAYER: A PILLAR OF ISLAM
The Messenger of Alah once said: "Prayer is the pillar of religion.'
[Al-Baihaqi]
He also informed us that Islam is built upon five pillars, the second being to establish prayer five times a day.
[Sahih Al-Bukhari]
This makes the image very clear: Islam is like a building supported by five columns; remove just one column and the entire building weakens. In the same way, when a person stops praying, his faith becomes weak, and the mildest blows can cause it to crumble. The prayer is so very important that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'Verily, between man and polytheism and disbelief is abandoning prayer'
[Muslim]How true is this statement! If you look at people walking down the road, it may be difficult to distinguish Muslims from non-Muslims. Islam is not marked upon a believer's forehead, and neither is Kufr stamped on an infidel's face. But at the time of prayer, you can separate the two groups with ease. The believer will abandon his work, his business to join the rows of Muslims in prayer, while the disbeliever will carry on with his worldly affairs.
Surah Al-Muddathir narrates an interesting dialogue which will take place on the Day of Judgement. The believers will ask the people of Hell-fire:
"What has caused you to enter Hell?" They will say: "We were not of those who used to offer their prayers. Nor we used to feed the poor; and we used to talk falsehoods (all that which Allah hated) with vain talkers, and we used to belie the Day of Recompense. Until there came to use (the death) that is certain."
[Surah 72 :42-47]
The rejecters of truth are silent in this world, but in the next world they will themselves speak the truth.
PRAYER IS LIKE A FORTRESS
Prayer is the basis of all good actions. Below are quoted two passages of the Quran, both of which list a number of good actions. Prayer comes before and after all good actions:-
A. Surah al-Muminun [23: 1-11]
"Successful indeed are the believers. Those who offer their Salat (prayers) with all solemnity and full submissiveness. And those who turn away from Al-Laghw (dirty, false, evil vain talk, falsehoods and all that Allah has forbidden). And those who pay the Zakat. And those who guard their chastity (i.e. private parts, from illegal sexual acts). Except from their wives or (the captives and slaves) that their right hands possess, -for then, they are free from blame. But whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors. Those who are faithfully true to their trusts and to their covenants. And those who strictly guard their Salat (five compulsory congregational prayers at their fixed stated hours). These are indeed the inheritors. Who shall inherit the Firdaus (Paradise). They shall dwell therein forever."
B. Surah Al-Marif: [70: 19-35]
"Verily, man (disbeliever) was created very impatient; irritable (discontented) when evil touches him; and niggardly when good touches him. Except those devoted to Salat (prayers), those who remain constant in their Salat (prayers), and those in whose wealth there is a known right, for the beggar who asks, and for the unlucky who has lost his property and wealth, (and his means of living has been straitened). And those who believe in the Day of Recompense, and those who fear the torment of their Lord. Verily! The torment of their Lord is that before which none can feel secure. And those who guard their chastity (ie, private parts from illegal sexual acts), except with their wives and the (women slaves and captives) whom their right hands possess, -for (then) they are not to be blames. But whosoever seeks beyond that, then it is those who are trespassers. And those who keep their trusts and covenants, and those who stand firm in their testimonies, and those who guard their Salat (prayers) well; such shall dwell in the Gardens (i.e. Paradise) honored."
In these passages, the believers are said to have certain characteristics, the first of which they concentrate on their prayers. Other signs of believers are:
o They avoid vain and vulgar activities.
o They pay their Zakat regularly.
o They guard their chastity and avoid illicit relations. Their marital lives are confines to their wives and salve-girls (assuming such a situation exists in which the presence of slaves is justified).
o Those who do not betray covenants and trusts.
o Those who stand by their testimonies (as in Surah Al-Marij).
After mentioning these five characteristics, regularity in prayers is once again commended.
The quotation from Surah Al-Marij is similar to the one from Surah al-Muaminun. It shows that prayer is like a fortress which protects and preserves other good deeds. To guard one's prayer helps guard one's other virtues. The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said in a similar way:
"Prayer is the pillar of the religion" [Al-Baihaqi]
Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) also said:
"The first thing about which a mans is going to be questioned on the Day of Judgment is prayer. If it is found to be sound all his other reactions will be sound as well. If his prayer is not sound all his remaining actions would be spoiled." [Al-Tabarani]
Which Prayer is acceptable?
"Those who offer their Salat (prayers) with all solemnity and full submissiveness." [23: 2]
The emphasis , in this verse, is on humility and concentration in the prayer (Khushu). There is no doubt that as Shaitan (Satan) is the most bitter enemy of man, he always tries to disturb the believer's prayer. As soon as a person begins his prayer, he finds his mind suddenly engulfed with memories, problems, worries, work and his family. He may become so engrossed in his thoughts that he has no idea where he is and what he is doing. His prayer becomes a series of automatic actions, and he will often find himself wondering whether he has prayed three Rakaa or four. This is how Shaitan steals the prayer.
The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) once said that only a tiny portion of the prayer, maybe as little as a tenth or an eighth, is accepted by Allah. The rest is lost because of the whisperings of Shaitan.
It is reported that a Successor saw a man playing with his beard while praying. He commented that: "If there had been Khushu (concentration) in his heart, the other organs of his body would have concentrated as well."
Surah Al-Ma'un also makes a reference to lifeless prayers:
"So woe unto those performers of prayers (hypocrites), who delay their Salat (prayer) from its stated fixed time" [107: 4,5]
A worshipper is neglectful of his prayers either when he delays the prayer to the last possible minute, or when he does not concentrate fully on what he is doing and saying.
Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) was once sitting in the mosque at Al-Madinah when a bedouin entered and began to pray. He prayed so quickly, that when he had finished, the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) asked him to repeat the prayer. His second attempt was just as hurried, so the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) asked him to repeat it again. After a third hurried prayer, the bedouin said: "O Messenger of Allah. I cannot pray better than this." The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) then showed the man how to pray. He instructed him to recite Surah Al-Fatihah while in the standing position, then to say Tasbih in the Ruku position, to stand upright saying Rabbana lakal hamd, to go down with Sajdah and recite Tasbih, and to sit between the two Sajdah and recite a Du'a. The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) advised the bedouin to do this in each Rakah.
[Musnad Ahmad]
Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) used to spend a lot of time on each prayer, so that each movement of the prayer could be offered slowly and properly. He once said: "A man's lengthy prayer and short sermon shows that he has a good understanding of the religion."
[Muslim, Abu Dawud]
This refers to the Friday Khutbah which should not be too long while the prayer should be lengthy.
PRAYER AS A WEAPON
Allah Almighty says in the Qur'an:
"O you who believer! Seek help in patience and Salat (prayer). Truly! Allah is with the patient."
[2: 153]
Man is, by nature, weak. He needs help at times of misery and hardship. And the best aid we can have is that of patience in adversity and prayer. Any difficulties, unhappiness and loss should be faced with calm and wisdom. A hasty response or an unwise remark will only cause more problems. Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) used to look for solace in prayer whenever he experienced difficulties. In prayer one seeks help from Allah, and who can be a better helper than Allah?
The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) used to say to Bilal:
"O Bilal! Provide us with rest with prayer."
PRAYER AS A REMINDER
A non-Muslim once asked the following question during a discussion: "I can understand why Muslims were required to pray five times a day during the early days of Islam. They did not have many things to do in those days so the Prophet kept them busy with prayer. But our sophisticated and modern life leaves man with little spare time. He is much too busy to be expected to pray five times a day."
The answer given was what is the primary objective of prayer. The Qur'an says:
"...and establish prayer for My Remembrance."
[20: 14]
As man is by nature forgetful, prayer reminds him of the allegiance due to his Creator and Lord. If prayer was needed fourteen hundred years ago when man did not lead such a busy life style, the it is even more necessary in today's hectic world. On the one hand, education and work keep people occupied constantly. And when it is time to relax. Shaitan (Satan) has found many new channels to operate through, such as television, the cinema and videos. Man becomes so engrossed in this life that he has no thought for Allah and the Hereafter. The need to remind man of the realities of his existence has thus intensified, and not declined in modern times. Prayer is still of utmost importance and benefit in our high-tech lives.
Prayer acts as a shield against evil. Allah Almighty says in the Qur'an:
"...Verily, As-salat (the prayer) prevents from Al-Fahsha (i.e. great sins of every kind, unlawful sexual intercourse etc. ) and al-Munkar (i.e. disbelief, polytheism, and every kind of evil wicked deed etc.)..."
[29: 45]
The following incident will help understand this point:
In the time of Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) lived a man who drank alcohol, gambled and committed thefts habitually.. He came to the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) and asked for some advice which would help improve his character. The Prophet's advice was simple; "don't tell any lies." The man then left, after having been told to report back the next day. he was feeling very pleased, as the instructions given to him seemed very easy to obey. At home the man poured himself his usual glass of wine. As he lifted the glass to his lips, he suddenly remembered that he had to report back to the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) the next day. he would be asked about that day's activities, and if he admitted in front of all the Companions that he had been drinking, it would be terribly embarrassing for him.
If, however, he did not admit to having drunk wine, it would be a lie. So he put the wine away. The same thing happened when he was about to start gambling and go on his robbing expedition. And once this man had taken the first positive step towards fighting his evil habits, he was able to reform very quickly.
Prayer can have a very similar effect. If a person remembers five times a day that he will stand on his prayer-mat and address his Lord, it will prevent him from committing the sins that Shaitan has been encouraging him to do.
The quality of the prayer is of utmost importance as well. consider a house with solid foundations, concrete walls and a strong roof. this house will be able to withstand all forms of bad weather, be it winds, hail or storms. After all, the purpose of a house is to provide shelter and protection against these elements. If, on the other hand, the house is loosely constructed with leaves and grass, it will blow away at the slightest hint of bad weather.
This image applies very clearly to prayer. If a prayer is offered regularly, at the correct time, with sincerity of intention and concentration on what is being recited, it will strengthen the person's Faith and provide comfort and strength in times of trouble.
Irregular and insincere prayers will be of little use to a person in times of distress. A healthy body can combat viruses with more ease that can a weak body.
PRAYER: THE FIRST STEP TOWARDS ESTABLISHING THE ISLAMIC SHARIAH AS A WHOLE
The Qur'an records the following conversation between Prophet Shuaib and his people:
"And to the Madyan (Midian) people (We sent) their brother Shuaib. He said: O my people! Worship Allah, you have no other Ilah (god) but Him, and give not short measure or weight, I see you in prosperity; and verily I fear for you the torment of a Day encompassing. And O my people! Give full measure and weight in justice and reduce no the things that are due to the people, and do not commit mischief in the land, causing corruption. That which is left by Allah for you (after giving the rights of the people) is better for you, if you are believers. And I am not sent over you as a guardian."
[11: 84-86]
This was an invitation to honor the Rights of Allah (by accepting Tawhid) and honor the rights (in daily trade and business). But Shuaib's people replied with sarcasm:
"They said: O Shuaib! Does your prayer (i.e., the prayers which you offer has spoiled your mind, so you) command that we leave off what our fathers used to worship, or that we leave off doing what we like with our property? Verily, you are the forbearer, right-minded!"
[11: 87]
Shuaib's people realized that the Prophet was not simply asking them to pray regularly but that he wanted them to establish a whole new economic system as well, hence the references to fair trading. The lesson to be learned from this is that in Islam, there is no leaving "What belongs to God, for God; and what belongs to Caesar, for Caesar." Everything belongs to God. How can a Muslim who worships Allah Almighty during his five daily prayers, be expected to obey others in other aspects of his daily life. There can be no duality of authority in Islam. Allah is the Creator , and His Alone is the right to legislate and demand loyalty. Man is the slave of Allah and should obey Him Alone.
Muslims who live in a non-Muslim state may feel that they are unable to implement the Din of Allah in their political and economic lives, but those Muslims who live in Muslim countries have no excuse for allowing the Din of Allah to be confined to a personal level.
Muslims should be clear that the Din of Allah does not consist simply of prayers, fasting, charity and Hajj. It is their duty to implement all Islamic teachings in political, economic and social fields.
"Truly, the religion with of Allah is Islam..." [3: 19]
"And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers". [3: 85]
Today's false idols, which dominate over the entire world, are Democracy, Capitalism, Socialism and communism. Instead, Islam calls for a Khilafa (caliphate) based on consultation, and a just economic system based on Zakat and a prohibition of usury. If you remove any of these three characteristics, you make it impossible for Islamic law to operate properly.
The Qur'an describes clearly the first duty of a Muslim ruler:
"Those (Muslim rulers) who, if We give them power in the land, (they) order for Iqamat-as-Salat{ (i.e. to offer prayers perfectly-the five compulsory, congregational prayers (the males in mosques)}, to pay the Zakat and they enjoin Al-Maruf (i.e. Islamic Monotheism and all that Islam orders one to do), and forbid Al-Munkar (i.e., disbelief, polytheism and all that Islam has forbidden) {i.e. they make the Quran as the law of their country in all the spheres of life}. And with Allah rests the end of (all) matters (of creatures)."
[22: 41]
A well-known Arabic saying is: "The people follow the religion of their kings." Ordinary people enjoy imitating their rulers, and if those in authority set a good example by praying and fasting regularly, the people will be encouraged to do so as well. Those in power can also provide material assistance, such as the construction of mosques and prayer facilities in public places. The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) advised the people not to rebel against their leaders...as long as the leaders establish prayer and do not commit acts of open disobedience to Allah. This advice will save the Muslim nation from anarchy and useless bloodshed.
PRAYER AS AN EXPIATION OF SINS
Prayer not only stimulates a person to do good deeds, but it also takes away his minor sins.
"Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds (i.e. small sins)"
[11: 114]
As prayer is the best of all good actions, it can erase many sins. 'Ali narrated that Abu Bakr heard Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) saying:
'Whoever commits a sin, but performs ablution in the best way, then offers two Rakat prayer, and he asks for the forgiveness of Allah, Allah almighty forgives his sins'
[Ahmad]
This does not mean to say that a person can commit as many sins as he likes, as long as he follows each sin with a prayer. What Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) was showing is that repentance opens the door to forgiveness. Prayer is a form of repentance and should be offered with sincerity and a true desire to amend one's character. After repenting, the person's Faith should be revived, and he should fight all Satanic temptations to do evil.
In Surah Al-Furqan repentance is described as a way out for those who commit major sins:
"And those who invoke not any other Ilah (god) along with Allah, nor kill such life as Allah has forbidden, except for just cause, nor commit illegal sexual intercourse - and whoever does this shall receive the punishment. The torment will be doubled to him on the Day of Resurrection, and he will abide therein in disgrace. Except those who repent and believe (in Islamic Monotheism), and do righteous deeds, for those, Allah will change their sins into good deeds, and Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. And whosoever repents and does righteous good deeds, then verily, he repents towards Allah with true repentance"
[25: 68-71]
PRAYER: THE FIRST QUESTION ON THE DAY OF JUDGMENT
Man was sent to this world for only one purpose:
"And I (Allah) created not the jinns and men except they should worship Me (Alone)"
[51: 56]
Man is to live in this world as a worshipper of his Creator, and the best form of worship is prayer. On the Day of Judgment, man will have to answer for each and every deed committed on this earth. He will be asked about the bounties bestowed upon him in this life:
"Then, on that Day, you shall be asked about the delight (you indulged in, in this world)!
[102: 8]
But the first question to be asked on that Great Day will be about prayer. Man has two Mauqif (standing positions) in front of his Creator, one in this world and one in the next.
The first is his prayer-mat when he stands in regular prayer to his Lord. The second will be on Judgment Day when his actions will be brought forward as evidence. If his first stand (i.e. his prayer) is found to be correct, his second stand will be made easy for him. If his first stand was faulty, he will face immense difficulties in the second stand.
To intentionally neglect even a single prayer is a serious sin for which there can be no compensation. A Muslim is not to miss a prayer even in the terrifying moments of battle, so how can there be justification for missing his prayers in ordinary circumstances. during battle, the Imam leads same ranks of the contingent in one Rakat of the prayer, while the other soldiers continue to fight. The soldiers then change places, and the Imam leads the second group in prayer, while the first resumes fighting. This continues until everyone had prayed. This particular prayer is called Salat al-Khauf (Prayer of Fear) because of its unusual circumstances.
Another form of prayer is the shortened prayer, which is allowed during battle and traveling. The prayers which normally consist of four Rakaat i.e. Zuhr, Asr, and Isha) are shortened to two Rakaat, but in no circumstances can a prayer be missed. The only exemption available is for menstruating women, who are not required to pray during this time. At all other times women must pray just like men. So strict is the requirement of prayer that a person who is ill, no matter how seriously, must pray as long as he or she is in consciousness. If the person can not stand, then the prayer is offered in the sitting position; if the person is too ill to sit, then the prayer is offered in the lying position, using the eyes, head, hands, etc., to signal the different movements of the prayer.
PRAYER: A DUTY KNOWN TO EVERY PROPHET OF ALLAH
Prophet Ibrahim (alayhis salam) recited the following Du'a when he was raising the walls of the Ka'bah in Makkah:
"O our Lord! I have made some of my offspring to dwell in a valley with no cultivation, by Your Sacred House; in order, O our Lord, that they may offer prayers perfectly"
[14: 37]
While he prayed for himself and his children, Prophet Ibrahim did not ask for riches and fame. He pleaded instead:
"O my Lord! Make me one who offers prayers perfectly, and (also) from my offspring, our Lord! And accept my invocation. Our Lord! Forgive me and my parents, and (all) the believers on the Day when the reckoning will be established"
[14: 40-41]
Prophet Ismail (alayhis salam) has also been praised for his character in the Qur'an:
"And mention in the Book Ismail. Verily! He was true to what he promised, and he was a Messenger, (and) a Prophet. And he used to enjoin on his family and his people As-Salat (i.e. order them to offer the prayers perfectly) and the Zakat, and his Lord was pleased with him" [19: 54-55]
Prophet Zakariyyah (alayhis salam) was childless in his old age, and he yearned constantly for a son: "At that time Zakariyyah (Zachariah) invoked his Lord, saying:
'O my Lord! Grant me from You, a good offspring. You are indeed the All-Hearer of invocation.'"
[3: 38]
And while he was praying to Allah, he received the good news:
"Then the angels called him, while he was standing in prayer in Al-Mihrab (a praying place or a private room), (saying): 'Allah gives you glad tidings of Yahya (John) confirming (believing in) the Word from Allah {i.e. the creation of Jesus" (Be!"- and he was! )}, noble, keeping away from sexual relations with women, a Prophet, from among the righteous'"
[3: 39]
Prophet Isa (alayhis salam) received Divine communications while he was still a baby in his cradle: "...and has enjoined on me Salat (prayer), and Zakat, as long as I live"
[19: 31]
So the daily prayer is not a new act introduced by Allah's Messenger (pbuh). It is a form of personal communication with Allah, and it is as old as the first man on this planet.
Prayer cannot be an isolated act:
The Qur'an mentions the act of prayer about thirty-five times, but never alone. It always couples prayer with giving Zakat or spending on the poor and needy. The two are inseparable. The person who gives charity but does not pray five times a day is only earning the displeasure of Allah.
In the early days of his caliphate, Abu Bakr (radiAllahu anhu) went to war against those people who had stopped paying Zakat after the death of Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam). He said:
'By Allah! I will fight those who differentiate between Salat (prayer) and Zakat'
Another virtue which is mentioned with prayer in the Qur'an is patience:
"O you who believer! Seek help in patience and Salat (prayer). Truly! Allah is with the patient."
[2: 153]
Man is surrounded by external and internal problems. To deal with these, he has been given the two weapons of prayer and patience. Patience helps him withstand external hostilities and opposition. Prayer strengthens his internal relationship with God.
Another requirement alongside prayer is that of sacrifice, on the day of Eid during the time of Hajj:
"Therefore turn in prayer to your Lord and sacrifice (to Him only). For he who makes you angry (O Muhammad), - he will be cut off (from every good thing in this world and in the Hereafter)"
[108: 2-3]
This association of prayer and sacrifice is explained in Surah Al-A'nam:
"Say (O Muhammad): 'Verily, my prayer, my sacrifice, my living, and my dying are for Allah, the Lord of the Alamin (mankind, jinns and all that exists)'"
[6: 162]
Prayer is an act of life, and sacrifice symbolizes death. Whether our actions are concerned with life or death, our sole purpose must be the Pleasure of Allah. No sacrifice may be offered to any being other than Allah, just as no prayer is valid except if directed to Allah.
WHY DOES MAN ABANDON PRAYER?
Allah Almighty says:
"Then, there has succeeded them a posterity who have given up prayers (i.e. made their prayers to be lost, either by not offering them or by not offering them perfectly or by not offering them in their proper fixed times, etc.) and have followed lusts. so they will be thrown in Hell. Except those who repent and believe (in the Oneness of Allah and His Messenger Muhammad {pbuh}) and work righteousness. Such will enter Paradise and they will not be wronged in aught"
[19: 59-60]
Preceding this verse, the Qur'an gives the example of many previous Prophets and their guided followers. This particular verse explains that the people who abandon prayer are those who follow their own selfish desires. A man can either obey Allah, or he can obey his own wishes; and this obedience is equated to worship by the Qur'an:
"Have you (O Muhammad) seen him who has taken as his Ilah (god) his own desire? Would you then be a Wakil (a protecting guide) over him?" [25: 43]
Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) described such people as the sales of Dirhams and Dinars, and things have not change much since his time. Today, the Americans are described by a western author as - 'people who worship the dollar for six days a week, and then they turn to God on the seventh day!'
When a heart is filled with love for money, it has no room for God, and prayer is the first thing to be abandoned.
SUMMARY
Prayer is an obligation upon every Muslim, man and woman.
"...Verily, the prayer is enjoined on the believers at fixed hours" [4: 103]
Anas narrated that Allah's Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'Whoever forgets a prayer, he should offer it whenever he remembers. There is no expiation for it except this'
[All six report it except Malik]
May the Peace and Blessings of Allah be upon our Prophet and upon his family and upon all his followers.
Ameen.
Duas for Faith
اللَّهُمَّ اجْعَلنِىْ مِمَّنْ تَوَكَّلَ عَلَيْكَ فَكَفَيْتَهُ وَ اسْتَهْدكَ فَهَدَيْتَهُ وَ اسْتَنْصَرَكَ فَنَصَرْتَهُ
Allahummaj 'alni miman tawwakala 'alaika, fakafait-tahu wastahdaka fahadaittahu wastansaraka fanasaratahu
(O Allah! Let us be among those who had complete trust in Thee; so You sufficed them; and they sought guidance from Thee; so You directed them to the right Path; and they asked help of Thee; so You assisted them.)
اللَّهُمَ اجْعَلْ وَسَاوِسَ قَلْبِىْ خَشْيَتَكَ وَ ذِكُرَكَ وَ اجْعَلْ هَمّىْ وَ هَو' ىَ فِيْمَا تُحِبَّ وَ تَرْضى
Allahummaj'al wasāwisa qalbi khashyatika wa dhikrika waj'alhammi wa hawāyā fima tuhibbu wa tarda.
(O Allah! Render the thoughts and inclinations within my heart, to be Your fear and remembrance, and let my endeavour and desire be devoted to what You love and appreciate.)
رَبَّنَا أَفْرِغْ عَلَيْنَا صَبْرًا وَتَوَفَّنَا مُسْلِمِينَ
Rabbana 'afrigh 'alaiyna sabran-wa ta-waffana muslimeen
(Our Rabb! pour upon us perseverance, and cause us to die as Muslims. [surah al-A'raf, 7: 126]
[supplication made by the wise men who believed in Musa (alayhis salam), and whom were threatened by the Fir'aun]
اللّهُمَّ اَقْبِلْ بِقَلْبِىْ اِلى دِيْنِكَ وَ احْفَظْ مِنْ وَّرَآءِنَا بِرَحْمَتِكَ
Allahumma aqbil bi qalbi ilā deenika wahfadh min warāyina bi Rahmatika
(O Allah! Let my heart turn (with devotion) to Your Deen, and save me (from every kind of evil) with Your Mercy.)
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Allahumma zayyinna bi zinat al-iman wa'j'alna hudatan muhtadin
O Allah, adorn us with the adornment of faith, and made us of those who guide others and are themselves on guidance
[Related by Ahmad and Nasa'i; its chain of transmitters is reliable]
اللَّهُمَّ ثَبِّتْنِىْ اَنْ اَزِلَّ وَ اهْدِ نِىْ اَضِلَّ
Allahumma thabbitnī-an azilla wahdini an adilla
(O Allah! Keep me feet firm on Thy Right Path so that I should not stagger, and guide me to the true Faith so that I should not go astray.)
اللَّهُمَّ اِنِّىْ اَسْئَلُكَ اِيْمَانًا دَآئِمًا وَّ هُدًى قَيِّمًا وَّ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا
Allahumma inni asaluka imaanan daaį'man, wa hudan qayyįman wa 'ilman naafį'an
(O Allah! I ask Thee for everlasting Iman, and continual guidance and a useful Knowledge.)
اللَّهُمَّ اِنِّىْ اَسْئَلُكَ اِيْمَانًا دَئِمًا وَّ اَسْئَلُكَ قَلْبًا خَاشِعًا وَّ اَسْئَلُكَ يَقْيِنًا صَادِقًا وَّ اَسْئَلُكَ دِينا قَيِّمًا
Allahumma inni asaluka imaanan daāiman, wa asaluka qalban khashi'an, wa asaluka yaqįnan saadiqan, wa asaluka deenan qayyiman.
(O Allah! I ask Thee for everlasting iman; and I ask Thee [for] a heart which should fear Thee; and I ask Thee [for] a true confidence in Thee; and I ask Thee [for] a firm deen.)
اللَّهُمََّ اَحْيِنِىْ مُسْلِمًا وَّ اَمِتْنِىْ مُسْلِمًا
Allahumma ahyini Musliman wa amitinī Musliman
(O Allah! Let me live as a true Muslim, and cause me to die as a true Muslim.)
اللَّهُمَّ اَعْطِنِىْ كِتَابِىْ بِيَمِيْنِىْ
Allahumma ā'tinī kitabii bi yamīīnī
(O Allah! Give me the scrolls [of my deeds] in my Right Hand.)
اللَّهُمَّ اِنِّىْ اَسْئَلُكَ تَوْفِيْقَ اَهْلِ الْهُد'ى وَ اَعْمَالَ اَهْلَ الْيَقِيْنِ وَ مَنَاصَحَةَ اَهْلَ التَّوْبَةِ وَ عَزْمَ اهْلِ الصَّبْرِ وَ جِدَّ اَهْلِ الْخَشْيَةِ وَ طَلَبَ اَهْلِ الرَّغْبَةِ وَ تَعَبُّدَ اَهْلِ الْوَرْعِ وَ عِرْفَانَ اَهْلَ الْعِلْمِ حَتّى الْقَاكَ
Allahumma inni asaluka tawfiqa ahlil-huda wa 'amala ahlil yaqįni, wa munasahata ahlittaubati, wa 'azma ahlis-sabri, wa jidda ahlil-khashyati, wa talaba ahlil-rraghbati, wa ta'abudu ahlil wa'ri wa 'irfāna ahlil 'ilmi hatta alqāka
(O Allah! I ask You for the success (of good deeds) like the Rightly Guided ones, and the actions (like the Rightly Guided ones), and the sincerity [like that] of the repentant ones, and the determination [like that] of the patient people, and the struggle [like that] of those who Fear You and the search (for Truth) [like that] of those who love You, and the worship [like that] of the the pious, and the keen insight [as of] of great scholars, until I meet You.)
اللَّهُمَّ افْتَحْ مَسَامِعَ قَلْبِى لِذِكْرِكَ وَ ارْزُقْنِىْ طَاعَتَكَ وَ طَاعَتَ رَسُوْلِكَ وَ عَمَلًا بِكِتَابِكَ
Allahummamaftah masami'a qalbi li-dhikrika war zuqni ta'atala wa ta'a'ta rasul-lika, wa 'amalan bi kitaabi[ka]
(O Allah! Open the ears of my heart for Your remembrance, and grant me [the ability to be to] Your complete obedience, and the obedience of Your Prophet, , and the observation (actions) [of the commandments] of Your book.)
يَا مُقَلَّبَ الْْقُلُوْبِ ثَبِّتْ قَلْبِىْ عَلى دِيْنِكَ
Ya Muqqalib al Qulūub, thabbit qalbi 'ala deenak
(O Converter of hearts! Make my heart steadfast in the deen)
اللَّهُمَّ فَقِّهْنَا فِى الدِّيْنِ
Allahumma faq-qihna fid deen
(O Allah! Grant us understanding of the deen.)
اللَّهُمَّ اِنِىْ اَسْئَلُكَ صِحَّةً فِىْ اِيْمَانٍ وَّ اِيْمَانًا فِىْ حُسْنِ خُلْقٍ وَّ نِجَاحًا تُتْبِعُهْ فَلَاحًا وَّ رَحْمَةً مِنْكَ وَ عَافِيَةً وَّ مَغْفِرَة ً مِنْكَ وَ رِضْوَانً
Allahumma inni asaluka sih-hitan fi imanan, wa imanan fi husni khulqin, wa najāhan tutbi'uhu falahan, wa rahmatan minka, wa 'afiyatan, wa magh-firatan minka wa ridhwaanan
(O Allah! I ask for health/goodness of iman, and iman accompanied by good behaviour, and success followed by peace and mercy from You; and also security, pleasure and forgiveness.)
رَبِّ قَدْ آتَيْتَنِي مِنْ الْمُلْكِ وَعَلَّمْتَنِي مِنْ تَأْوِيلِ الأَحَادِيثِ فَاطِرَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ أَنْتَ وَلِيِّ فِي الدُّنْيَا وَالآخِرَةِ تَوَفَّنِي مُسْلِمًا وَأَلْحِقْنِي بِالصَّالِحِينَ
Rabbi qad 'aatay-tanee minal-mulki wa allam-tanee min- ta'-weelil-'ahadees,- Faatiras-samaa-waati wal-arz: 'anta wa-liyyii fid-dunyaa wal-'akhirati ta-waffanee musliman-wa 'al-hiqnee bis-saali-heen
(My Lord! You have already given me of the kingdom and taught me the interpretation of the narratives; Originator of the heavens and the earth! You are my Protector in this world and the Hereafter. Make me die as a Muslim, and join me with the righteous.) [Surah Yusuf, 12: 101]
[Prophet Yusuf (alayhis salam) made this supplication after he became the ruler of Egypt]
رَبِّ أَوْزِعْنِي أَنْ أَشْكُرَ نِعْمَتَكَ الَّتِي أَنْعَمْتَ عَلَيَّ وَعَلَى وَالِدَيَّ وَأَنْ أَعْمَلَ صَالِحًا تَرْضَاهُ وَأَدْخِلْنِي بِرَحْمَتِكَ فِي عِبَادِكَ الصَّالِحِينَ
Rabbi 'awzi'-ni 'an 'ashkura ni'-mata kallatee 'an-'amta 'alayya wa 'alaa waalidayya wa 'an 'a-mala saalihan tarzaahu wa 'adkhilnee bi-rahmatika fee 'ibadikas-saliheen
(My Rabb! permit me to give thanks for Your blessing which You have bestowed on me and on my parents, and that I may do good which pleases You, and admit me, with Your mercy, among Your righteous bondsmen.) [surah Naml, 27: 19]
[Prophet Sulaiman (alayhis salam) made this supplication]
Du'as after Salah
A collection of supplications that may be recited after prayer.
أَسْتَغْفِرُ اللهَ ، اللَّهُمَّ أَنْتَ السَّلأمُ وَ مِنْكَ السَّلأمُ تَبَارَكْتَ يَا ذَا الْجَلاَلِ وَ الإِكْرَمِ
Astaghfirullah -- Allahumma antas-Salaamu, wa minkas-Salaamu, tabarakta ya Dhal Jalaali wal-Ikram
I seek the Forgiveness of Allah (3 times). O Allah! You are Peace and from You comes peace. Blessed are You, O Owner of majesty and Honour
[abu Dawud 2:62, ibn Majah 2:1267, at-Tirmidhi 5:515, Ahmad 5:360]
أَسْتَغْفِرُ اللهَ
Astaghfirullah
(3 times)
I seek Allah's Forgiveness
[Muslim]
سُبْحَانَ اللَّه
الْحَمْدُ للَّه
اللَّهُ أَكْبَر
SubhanAllah - 33 times
Alhamdulilah - 33 times
Allahu Akbar - 34 times
Glory be to Allah
Praise be to Allah
Allah is most Great
[Muslim 1:418]
'Whoever says this after each prayer will be forgiven of His sins even if they be as much as the foam of the sea'
Instead of saying "Allahu akbar", you can say the du'a below just once.
لا الهَ اِلَّا اللّهُ وَحْدَهُ لا شَرِيْكَ لَهْ، لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَ لَهُ الْحَمْدُ وَهُوَ عَلى كُلِّ شَئ ٍ قَدِيْرٌ
La ilaha ilAllahu wah-dahu la shareeka lahu, lahul Mulku wa lahul Hamd, wa Huwa ala kulli shaiy'iin Qadeer
None has the right to be worshipped Except Allah alone. He has no partner, His is the dominion and His is the Praise and He is Able to do all things.
[Muslim 1:418]
'Whoever says this after each prayer will be forgiven of His sins even if they be as much as the foam of the sea'
لا الهَ اِلَّا اللّهُ وَحْدَهُ لا شَرِيْكَ لَهْ، لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَ لَهُ الْحَمْدُ وَهُوَ عَلى كُلِّ شَئ ٍ قَدِيْرٌ. اللَّهُمَ لا مَانِعَ لِمَا أعْطَيْتَ ، وَلا مُعْطِيَ لِمَا مَنَعْتَ ، وَ لا يَنْفَعُ ذَا الْجَدِّ مِنْكَ الْجَدُّ
La ilaha ilAllahu wah-dahu la shareeka lahu, lahul Mulku wa lahul Hamd, wa Huwa ala kulli shaiy'iin Qadeer. Allahumma la maan'ia lima a'taita, wa la mu'tiya lima mana'ta, wa la yanfa'u dhal-jaddi minkal-jiddu
None has the right to be worshipped Except Allah alone. He has no partner, His is the dominion and His is the Praise and He is Able to do all things. O Allah! There is none who can withold what You have Given and none may Give what You have withheld; and the might of a mighty person cannot benefit him againt You
[Sahih al-Bukhari 1:255, Muslim 1:414]
اَللّهُمَ أَجِرْنيْ مِنَ النَّارِ
Allahumma ajirni min an-naar
(7 times)
O Allah, save me from the Fire
[abu Dawud]
After performing the dawn [Fajr] or sunset [Maghrib] Prayer, before you utter another word, say the above du'a seven times. If you die that day, or that night, Allah will decree that you be saved from Hell-fire.
اللَّهُ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ هُوَ الْحَيُّ الْقَيُّومُ لاَ تَأْخُذُهُ سِنَةٌ وَلاَ نَوْمٌ لَهُ مَا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمَا فِي الأَرْضِ مَنْ ذَا الَّذِي يَشْفَعُ عِنْدَهُ إِلاَّ بِإِذْنِهِ يَعْلَمُ مَا بَيْنَ أَيْدِيهِمْ وَمَا خَلْفَهُمْ وَلاَ يُحِيطُونَ بِشَيْءٍ مِنْ عِلْمِهِ إِلاَّ بِمَا شَاءَ وَسِعَ كُرْسِيُّهُ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضَ وَلاَ يَئُودُهُ حِفْظُهُمَا وَهُوَ الْعَلِيُّ الْعَظِيمُ
Allahu la ilaha illa Huwa, Al-Haiyul-Qaiyum La ta'khudhuhu sinatun wa la nawm, lahu man fis-samawati wa ma fil-'ard Man dhal-ladhi yashfa'u 'indahu illa bi-idhnihi Ya'lamu ma baina aidihim wa ma khalfahum, wa la yuhituna bi shai'im-min 'ilmihi illa bima sha'a Wasi'a kursiyuhus-samawati wal ard, wa la ya'uduhu hifdhuhuma Wa Huwal 'Aliyul-Adheem
"There is no god but He - the Living, The Self-subsisting, Eternal. No slumber can seize Him Nor Sleep. His are all things In the heavens and on earth. Who is there can intercede In His presence except As he permitteth? He knoweth What (appeareth to His creatures As) Before or After or Behind them. Nor shall they compass Aught of his knowledge Except as He willeth. His throne doth extend Over the heavens And on earth, and He feeleth No fatigue in guarding And preserving them, For He is the Most High. The Supreme (in glory)."
[Surah al-Baqarah 2: 255]
The one who recites it after each of the obligatory prayers, then death will be the only thing preventing him from entering Paradise.
[Ibn Sunni, Ibn Hibban, narrated by Abu Umamah Al-Bahili (ra)]
اَللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا , وَ رِزْقًا طَيَّبًا , وَ عَمَلاً مُتَقَبَّلاً
Allahumma inni as'aluka 'Ilman naafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan
O Allah! I ask You for knowledge that is of benefit, a good provision and deeds that will be accepted
[Ibn Majah and others]
To be recited after Fajr prayer
سُوْرَةُ النَّاس
سُوْرَةُ الْفَلَقِ
سُوْرَةُ الاِخْلاَصِ
Surah An-Nas
Surah Al-Falaq
Surah Al-Ikhlas
Chapter 114
Chapter 113
Chapter 112
[Abu Dawud 2:86, An-Nasa'i 3:68]
These surahs should be recited after each prayer. After the Maghrib and Fajr prayers, they should be recited 3 times each
More Du'as after Salah
Print this Page
May Allah reward all those who have participated in the compilation of the above, and those who make use of it.
Ameen.
Whoever guides to the right, his reward is the same as of a person doing it
[Muslim]
أَسْتَغْفِرُ اللهَ ، اللَّهُمَّ أَنْتَ السَّلأمُ وَ مِنْكَ السَّلأمُ تَبَارَكْتَ يَا ذَا الْجَلاَلِ وَ الإِكْرَمِ
Astaghfirullah -- Allahumma antas-Salaamu, wa minkas-Salaamu, tabarakta ya Dhal Jalaali wal-Ikram
I seek the Forgiveness of Allah (3 times). O Allah! You are Peace and from You comes peace. Blessed are You, O Owner of majesty and Honour
[abu Dawud 2:62, ibn Majah 2:1267, at-Tirmidhi 5:515, Ahmad 5:360]
أَسْتَغْفِرُ اللهَ
Astaghfirullah
(3 times)
I seek Allah's Forgiveness
[Muslim]
سُبْحَانَ اللَّه
الْحَمْدُ للَّه
اللَّهُ أَكْبَر
SubhanAllah - 33 times
Alhamdulilah - 33 times
Allahu Akbar - 34 times
Glory be to Allah
Praise be to Allah
Allah is most Great
[Muslim 1:418]
'Whoever says this after each prayer will be forgiven of His sins even if they be as much as the foam of the sea'
Instead of saying "Allahu akbar", you can say the du'a below just once.
لا الهَ اِلَّا اللّهُ وَحْدَهُ لا شَرِيْكَ لَهْ، لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَ لَهُ الْحَمْدُ وَهُوَ عَلى كُلِّ شَئ ٍ قَدِيْرٌ
La ilaha ilAllahu wah-dahu la shareeka lahu, lahul Mulku wa lahul Hamd, wa Huwa ala kulli shaiy'iin Qadeer
None has the right to be worshipped Except Allah alone. He has no partner, His is the dominion and His is the Praise and He is Able to do all things.
[Muslim 1:418]
'Whoever says this after each prayer will be forgiven of His sins even if they be as much as the foam of the sea'
لا الهَ اِلَّا اللّهُ وَحْدَهُ لا شَرِيْكَ لَهْ، لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَ لَهُ الْحَمْدُ وَهُوَ عَلى كُلِّ شَئ ٍ قَدِيْرٌ. اللَّهُمَ لا مَانِعَ لِمَا أعْطَيْتَ ، وَلا مُعْطِيَ لِمَا مَنَعْتَ ، وَ لا يَنْفَعُ ذَا الْجَدِّ مِنْكَ الْجَدُّ
La ilaha ilAllahu wah-dahu la shareeka lahu, lahul Mulku wa lahul Hamd, wa Huwa ala kulli shaiy'iin Qadeer. Allahumma la maan'ia lima a'taita, wa la mu'tiya lima mana'ta, wa la yanfa'u dhal-jaddi minkal-jiddu
None has the right to be worshipped Except Allah alone. He has no partner, His is the dominion and His is the Praise and He is Able to do all things. O Allah! There is none who can withold what You have Given and none may Give what You have withheld; and the might of a mighty person cannot benefit him againt You
[Sahih al-Bukhari 1:255, Muslim 1:414]
اَللّهُمَ أَجِرْنيْ مِنَ النَّارِ
Allahumma ajirni min an-naar
(7 times)
O Allah, save me from the Fire
[abu Dawud]
After performing the dawn [Fajr] or sunset [Maghrib] Prayer, before you utter another word, say the above du'a seven times. If you die that day, or that night, Allah will decree that you be saved from Hell-fire.
اللَّهُ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ هُوَ الْحَيُّ الْقَيُّومُ لاَ تَأْخُذُهُ سِنَةٌ وَلاَ نَوْمٌ لَهُ مَا فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَمَا فِي الأَرْضِ مَنْ ذَا الَّذِي يَشْفَعُ عِنْدَهُ إِلاَّ بِإِذْنِهِ يَعْلَمُ مَا بَيْنَ أَيْدِيهِمْ وَمَا خَلْفَهُمْ وَلاَ يُحِيطُونَ بِشَيْءٍ مِنْ عِلْمِهِ إِلاَّ بِمَا شَاءَ وَسِعَ كُرْسِيُّهُ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضَ وَلاَ يَئُودُهُ حِفْظُهُمَا وَهُوَ الْعَلِيُّ الْعَظِيمُ
Allahu la ilaha illa Huwa, Al-Haiyul-Qaiyum La ta'khudhuhu sinatun wa la nawm, lahu man fis-samawati wa ma fil-'ard Man dhal-ladhi yashfa'u 'indahu illa bi-idhnihi Ya'lamu ma baina aidihim wa ma khalfahum, wa la yuhituna bi shai'im-min 'ilmihi illa bima sha'a Wasi'a kursiyuhus-samawati wal ard, wa la ya'uduhu hifdhuhuma Wa Huwal 'Aliyul-Adheem
"There is no god but He - the Living, The Self-subsisting, Eternal. No slumber can seize Him Nor Sleep. His are all things In the heavens and on earth. Who is there can intercede In His presence except As he permitteth? He knoweth What (appeareth to His creatures As) Before or After or Behind them. Nor shall they compass Aught of his knowledge Except as He willeth. His throne doth extend Over the heavens And on earth, and He feeleth No fatigue in guarding And preserving them, For He is the Most High. The Supreme (in glory)."
[Surah al-Baqarah 2: 255]
The one who recites it after each of the obligatory prayers, then death will be the only thing preventing him from entering Paradise.
[Ibn Sunni, Ibn Hibban, narrated by Abu Umamah Al-Bahili (ra)]
اَللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَافِعًا , وَ رِزْقًا طَيَّبًا , وَ عَمَلاً مُتَقَبَّلاً
Allahumma inni as'aluka 'Ilman naafi'an, wa rizqan tayyiban, wa 'amalan mutaqabbalan
O Allah! I ask You for knowledge that is of benefit, a good provision and deeds that will be accepted
[Ibn Majah and others]
To be recited after Fajr prayer
سُوْرَةُ النَّاس
سُوْرَةُ الْفَلَقِ
سُوْرَةُ الاِخْلاَصِ
Surah An-Nas
Surah Al-Falaq
Surah Al-Ikhlas
Chapter 114
Chapter 113
Chapter 112
[Abu Dawud 2:86, An-Nasa'i 3:68]
These surahs should be recited after each prayer. After the Maghrib and Fajr prayers, they should be recited 3 times each
More Du'as after Salah
Print this Page
May Allah reward all those who have participated in the compilation of the above, and those who make use of it.
Ameen.
Whoever guides to the right, his reward is the same as of a person doing it
[Muslim]
This is a beautiful dua of qunoot made a few years ago by Mishari Share
Dua Qunut by al-Afasy
This is a beautiful dua of qunoot made a few years ago by Mishari Rashid al-Afasy
الَّلهُمُّ لَكَ الحَمْدُ أَنْتَ نُورُ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ وَمَنْ فِيهِنَّ، وَلَكَ الحَمْدُ أَنْتَ قَيِّمُ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ وَمَنْ فِيهِنَّ، وَلَكَ الحَمْدُ أَنْتَ رَبُّ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ وَمَنْ فِيهِنَّ
Allahumma lakal-hamdu anta noorus-samawaati wal-ardi wa man fihinna, wa lakal-hamdu anta qayyimus-samawaati wal-ardi wa man fihinna, wa lakal-hamdu anta rabbus-samawaati wal-ardi wa man fihinna.
O Allah! For You is all Praise - You are the Light of the Heavens and the Earth and all that is in them; and for You is all Praise – You are the Guardian of the Heavens and the Earth and all that is in them; and for You is all Praise – you are the Lord of the Heavens and the Earth and all that is in them.
أَنْتَ الحَقُّ وَوَعْدُكَ الحَقُّ وَقَوْلُكَ الحَقُّ وَلِقَاؤُكَ حَقٌّ وَالجَنَّةُ حَقٌّ وَالنَّارُ حَقٌّ والسَّاعَةُ حَقٌّ والنَّبِيّونَ حَقٌّ وَمُحَمَّدٌ حَقٌّ.
Antal-Haqqu wa wa'dukal-haqqu wa qawlukal-haqqu wa liqa’uka haqqun, wal-jannahtu haqqun wan-naru haqqun, was-sa'atu haqqun, wan-nabiyyoona haqqun wa Muhammadun haqq.
O Allah! You are the Truth, Your Promise is True, Your Speech is True, Your Meeting is True, Paradise is True, the Hellfire is True, the Hour is True, the Prophets are True and Muhammad is True.
اللهُمَّ لَكَ أَسْلَمْنَا وَبِكَ آمَنَّا وَعَلَيْكَ تَوَكَّلْنَا وَبِكَ خَاصَمْنَا وَإِلَيْكَ حاَكَمْنا فَاغْفِرْ لَنَا مَا قَدَّمْنَا وَمَا أَخَّرْنَا وَمَا أَسْرَرْنَا وَما أَعْلَنَّا أَنْتَ المُقَدِّمُ وَأَنْتَ المُؤَخِّرُ لا إِلهَ إِلا أَنْتَ.
Allahumma laka aslamnaa, wa bika aamannaa, wa alayka tawakkalnaa, wa bika khaasamnaa, wa ilayka haakamnaa, faghfir lanaa maa qaddamnaa wa maa akhkharnaa, wa maa asrarnaa wa maa a3lannaa, antal-muqaddimu wa antal-mu’akhkhiru laa ilaaha illaa ant.
O Allah! To You have we submitted our souls, in You have we believed, upon You have we relied, for You have we argued, to You have we taken our judgement, so forgive us all that we have done and what we have not done, what we have hidden and what we have disclosed. You are the Promoter, and You are the Delayer, there is no God but You.
اللهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلى مُحَمَّدٍ وَعَلَى آل مُحَمُّدٍ كَمَا صَلَّيْتَ عَلَى إِبْرَاهِيمَ وَعَلى آل إِبْرَاهِيمَ إِنَكَ حَمِيدٌ مَجِيد، وَبَارِكْ عَلى مُحَمَّدٍ وَعَلَى آل مُحَمُّدٍ كَمَا بَارَكْتَ عَلَى إِبْرَاهِيمَ وَعَلى آل إِبْرَاهِيمَ إِنَكَ حَمِيدٌ مَجِيد.
Allahumma salli ala Muhammadin wa ala Muhammad, kamaa sallayta ala Ibraheema wa alaa aali Ibrahim, Innaka hameedun Majeed. Wa barik ala Muhammadin wa ala aali Muhammad, kama barakta ala Ibrahima wa ala aali Ibrahim, Innaka hameedun majeed.
O Allah! Send prayers upon Muhammad and upon the followers Muhammad, just as you sent prayers upon Ibrahim and upon the followers of Ibrahim. Verily, you are Praiseworthy, Glorious. And O Allah! Send blessings upon Muhammad and upon the followers Muhammad, just as you sent blessings upon Ibrahim and upon the followers of Ibrahim. Verily, you are are Praiseworthy, Glorious.
اللهُمَّ أَعِزَّ الإِسْلامَ وَالمُسْلِمِينَ، اللهُمَّ أَعِزَّ الإِسْلامَ وَالمُسْلِمِينَ، وَأَذِلَّ الشِّرْكَ وَالمُشْرِكِينَ وَدَمِّرْ أَعْدآءَ الدِّينِ وَاحْمِ حَوْزَةَ الإسْلامِ يَا رَبَّ العَالَمِينَ.
Allahumma a'izzal-Islama wal-Muslimeen, Allahumma a'izzal-Islama wal-Muslimeen, wa adhillash-shirka wal-Mushrikeen, wa dammir a'daa’ad-deen, wahmi hawzatal-Islami ya rabbal-3alameen.
O Allah! Raise the standing of Islam and the Muslims. O Allah! Raise the standing and the Muslims, and degrade the standing of Kufr and the Kaafireen, and Shirk and the Mushrikeen. Destroy the enemies of the Deen, and protect the lands of Islam, O Lord of the Worlds.
اللهُمَّ انْصُرْ دِينَكَ وَكِتَابَكَ وَسُنَّةَ نَبِيِّكَ وَعِبادَكَ المُوَحِّدينَ.
Allahummansur deenaka wa kitabaka wa sunnahta nabiyyika wa ibaadakal-Muwahhideen.
O Allah! Grant Victory to Your religion, Your book, and the Sunnah of Your prophet, and Your monotheist slaves.
اللهُمَّ إِنَّا نَسْأَلُكَ بِأَنَّ لَكَ الحَمْدُ لا إِلهَ إِلا أَنْتَ، وَحْدَكَ لا شَرِيكَ لَكَ، المَنَّانُ، يَا بَدِيعَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ، يَا ذَا الجَلالِ وَالإِكْرِام،ِ يَا حَيُّ يَا قَيُّومُ.
Allahumma inna nas’aluka bi anna lakal-hamd, laa ilaha illa ant, wahdaka la shareeka laka, al-mannan, ya badias-samawaati wal-ardi, ya dhal-jalali wal-ikraam, ya hayyu ya qayoom.
O Allah! We ask of You, by virtue of all praise being to You, there is no God worthy of worship but You alone, there is no partner for You, the Beneficient, Creator of the Heavens and the Earth, O Lord of Majesty and Bounty, O Alive Self-Subsisting One.
نَسَأَلُكَ بِأَنَّنا نَشْهَدُ أَنَّكَ أَنْتَ اللهُ لا إِلهَ إلا أَنْتَ، الأَحَدُ الصَّمَدُ الَّذي لَمْ يَلِدْ وَلَمْ يُولَدْ وَلَمْ يَكُنْ لَهُ كُفُواً أَحَد، أَنْ تَنْصُرَ الإِسْلامَ وَأَهْلَهُ فِي كُلِّ مَكَانٍ، اللهُمُّ اَنْصُرِ الإِسْلامَ وَأَهْلَهُ فِي كُلِّ مَكَانٍ، اللهُمَّ انْصُرِ الإِسْلامَ وَأَهْلَهُ فِي كُلِّ مَكَانٍ.
Nas’aluka bi ananaa nash-hadu annaka antallah, la ilaha illa ant, al-ahadus-samadu-ladhdhi lam yalid wa lam yu-lad wa lam yakul-lahu kufuwan ahad. An tansural-Islama wa ahlahu fi kulli makaan. Allahumma-nsuril-Islama wa ahlahu fi kulli makaan. Allahumma-nsuril-Islama wa ahlahu fi kulli makaan.
We ask You - by virtue of bearing witness that You are Allah, there is no God worthy of worship but You, the One, the Self-Sufficient, Who begets not, nor was He begotten, and there is none who is comparable to Him. - [we ask You] to grant victory to Islam and the Muslims everywhere. O Allah! Grant victory to Islam and the Muslims everywhere. O Allah! Grant victory to Islam and the Muslims everywhere.
إِلَيْكَ نَشْكُو ضَعْفَ قُوَّتِنَا وَقِلَّةَ حِيلَتِنا وَهَوَانَنا عَلَى النَّاسِ، يَا أَرْحَمَ الرَّاحِمِينَ، أَنْتَ رَبُّ المُسْتَضْعَفِينَ،
Ilayka nashku da'fa quwwatina, wa qillata heelatina, wa hawanana 'alan-naas, ya arhamar-rahimeen. Anta rabbul-mustad'afeen
To You we complain of our weakness, our failure, our shame before the people. O Most Merciful! You are the Lord of the weak and oppressed.
وَأَنْتَ رَبُّنَا، إِلَى مَنْ تَكِلُنَا، إِلَى بَعِيدٍ يَتَجَهَّرُنَا، أَوْ إِلَى عَدُوٍّ مَلَّكْتَهُ أَمْرَنَا، إِنْ لَمْ يَكُنْ بِكَ غَضَبٌ عَلَيْنَا فَلا نُبَالِي، غَيْرَ أَنَّ عَافِيَتَكَ هِيَ أَوْسَعُ لَنَا.
Wa anta rabbuna, ila man takiluna, ila ba'eedin yatajahharuna, wa ila 'aduwwin mallaktahu amrana, in lam yakun bika ghadabun 'alaynaa fala nubaali, ghayra anna 'afiyataka hiya awsa'u lana.
And You are our Lord, to whom will you entrust us? To a distant person who will treat us with enmity, or to an enemy You have made over us. If You are not angry at us, we would not care, for Your pardon is greater for us.
نَعُوذُ بِنُورِ وَجْهِكَ الَّذي أَشْرَقَتْ لَهُ الظُّلُمَاتُ، وَصَلُحَ عَلَيْهِ أَمْرُ الدُّنْيَا وَالآخِرَةِ، أَنْ يَحِلَّ عَلَيْنَا غَضَبُكَ، وَأَنْ يَنْزِلَ بِنَا سَخَطُكَ، لَكَ العُتْبَى حَتَّى تَرْضَى، وَلا حَوْلَ وَلا قُوَّةَ إِلا بِكَ،
Na'udhu bi noori wajhikal-ladhi ashraqat lahudh-dhulumat, wa saluha 'alayhi amrud-dunya wal-akhirah, ay-yahilla alayna ghadabuk, wa ay-yanzila bina sakhatuk, lakal-'utbaa hatta tarda, wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa bik.
We seek refuge in the Light of Your Face for which darknesses shine, and with which the affairs of this life and the Hereafter become good, from Your anger or displeasure fall upon us. You have the right to admonish until You are pleased, and there is no power and no might except in You.
فَإِلَيْكَ نَشْكُو ضَعْفَنَا، فَإِلَيْكَ نَشْكُو ضَعْفَنَا.
Fa ilayka nashku da'fana, fa ilayka nashku da'fana
So to You we complain of our weakness, to You we complain of our weakness.
اللهُمَّ هَذِهِ رُوسِيا جَائَتْ بِجَيْشِهَا وَحَدِيدِها، بِظُلْمِها وَفَخْرِها، جَاءتْ تُحَادُّكَ وَتُكَذِّبُ رَسُولَكَ، وَتُقَتِّلُ المُسْتَضْعَفِينَ مِنَ المُؤْمِنينَ فِي الشِّيشان.
Allahumma hadhihi roosiya ja’at bi jayshiha wa hadeediha, bi dhulmiha wa fakhriha, ja’at tuhadduka wa tukadhdhibu rasoolaka, wa tuqattilul-mustad'afina minal-mu’mineena fish-sheeshan.
O Allah! Roosiya came with her army and iron, with her oppression and arrogance, she came to challenge You and deny Your Messenger, and to slaughter the weak and oppressed believers in Sheeshan.
اللهُمَّ أَنْجِزْ لَهُمِ مَا وَعَدْتَهُمْ، اللهُمَّ أَنْجِزْ لَهُمِ مَا وَعَدْتَهُمْ، اللهُمَّ أَنْجِزْ لَهُمِ مَا وَعَدْتَهُمْ فِي كِتَابِكَ.
Allahumma anjiz lahum ma wa'adtahum, Allahumma anjiz lahum maa wa'adtahum, Allahumma anjiz lahum ma wa'adtahum fee kitabik.
O Allah! Bring about what You promised them. O Allah! Bring about what You promised them. O Allah! Bring about what You promised them in Your Book.
اللهُمَّ إِنَّنَا نَنْشُدُكَ عَهْدَكَ وَوَعْدَكَ، اللهُمَّ أَنْزِلْ نَصْرَكَ وَتَأيِيدَكَ، أَنْتَ عَضِيدُهُمْ وَأَنْتَ نَصِيرُهُمْ، وَبِكَ يُقَاتِلُونَ.
Allahumma innana nanshudu 'ahdaka wa wa'dak. Allahumma anzil nasraka wa ta’yidak, anta 'adeeduhum, wa anta naseeruhum, wa bika yuqatiloon.
O Allah! We seek Your protection and Your promise. O Allah! Bring down Your help and support, You are their helper and supporter, and for You they will fight.
اللهُمَّ إِنَّهُمْ مَغْلُوبُونَ فَانْتَصِرْ لَهُمْ.
Allahumma innahum maghloobuna fantasir lahum.
O Allah! They are helpless, so help them.
رَبَّنَا أَفْرِغْ عَلَيْهِمْ صَبْراً وَثَبِّتْ أَقْدَامَهُمْ وَانْصُرْهُمْ عَلَى القَوْمِ الكَافِرِينَ.
Rabbana afrigh 'alayhim sabran wa thabbit aqdamahum wansurhum 'alal-qawmil-kafireen.
Our Lord! Pour upon them patience, make them steadfast, and grant them victory over the Disbelivers.
اللهُمَّ مَكِّرْ لَهُمْ، وَاكْفِهِمْ بِمَا شِئْتَ إِنْ تَنْصُرْهُمْ فَلا غَالِبَ لَهُمْ، وَإِنْ تَخْذُلْهُمْ فَمَنْ ذَا الَّذي يَنْصُرهُمْ مِنْ بَعْدِكَ.
Allahumma makkir lahum, wakfihim bimaa shi’t. In tansurhum falaa ghaliba lahum, wa in takhdhulhum fa man dhal-ladh' yansurhum min ba'dika.
O Allah! Plot for them, and suffice them with what You please, if You support them then nobody can overpower them, and if You forsake them, then who will be able to support them after You?
لا إِلاَ إِلا اللهُ العَظيمُ الحَليم، لا إِلهَ إِلا اللهُ رَبَّ العَرْشِ العَظِيمِ، لا إلهَ إِلا اللهُ رَبُّ السَّمَاوَتِ وَرَبُّ الأَرْضِ وَرَبُّ العَرْشِ الكَرِيمِ.
La ilaha illAllahul adhimul-haleem. La ilaha illAllahu, rabbul-arshil-adheem. La ilaha illAllahu rabbus-samawaati wa rabbul-ardi wa rabbul-arshil-kareem.
There is no God but Allah, the Mighty the Forebearing, there is no God but Allah, Lord of the Mighty Throne, There is no God but Allah, Lord of the Heavens and Lord of the Earth and Lord of the Noble Throne.
اللهُمَّ أَنْجِ المُسْتَضْعَفينَ مِنَ المُؤمِنِينَ فِي الشِّيشان، اللهُمَّ أَنْجِ المُسْتَضْعَفينَ مِنَ المُؤمِنِينَ فِي الشِّيشان، اللهُمَّ أَنْجِ المُسْتَضْعَفينَ مِنَ المُؤمِنِينَ فِي الشِّيشان، اللهُمَّ اشْدُدْ وَطَأَتَكَ عَلَى رُوسِيا، اللهُمَّ اجْعَلْهَا عَلَيْهِمْ سِنِينَ كَسِنينِ يُوسُف،
Allahumma anjil-mustadafeena minal-mu’mineena fish-sheeshaan. Allahumma anjil-mustadafeena minal-mu’mineena fish-sheeshaan. Allahumma anjil-mustadafeena minal-mu’mineena fish-sheeshaan. Allahummash-dud wata’ataka ala roosiya, Allahummaj-alha 'alayhim sineena ka sineeni yusuf
O Allah! Help the weak and oppressed believers in Sheeshan. O Allah! Help the weak and oppressed believers in Sheeshan. O Allah! Help the weak and oppressed believers in Sheeshan. O Allah! increase Your force against Roosiya.
اللهُمَّ خُذْهُمْ أَخْذُ عَزِيزٍ مُقْتَدِر،ٍ اللهُمَّ اجْعَلْ الدَّائِرَةَ عَلَيْهِمْ اللهُمَّ أَرِنَا فِيِهِمْ يَوْماً أَسْوَداً،
Allahumma khudh-um akhdha 'zeezin muqtadir, Allahummaj'al id-da’irata alayhim, Allahumma arina feehim yawman aswada
O Allah! annihilate them with Your authority and power, O Allah! Let all they have done be done to them. O Allah! show us their black day.
اللهُمَّ شَتِّتْ شَمْلَهُمْ، وَمَزِّقْ جَمْعَهُمْ، وَخَرِّبْ دِيَارَهُمْ، وَدَمِّرْ أَسْلِحَتَهُمْ، اللهُمَّ أَنْزِلْ عَلَيْهِمُ الأَعَاصيرَ المُدَمِّرَةَ، وَالأَمْرَاضَ الفَتَّاكَةَ
Allahumma shattit shamlahum, wa mazziq jam'ahum, wa kharrib diyarahum, wa dammir aslihatahum. Allahumma anzil 'alayhimul-a'aseeral-mudam
This is a beautiful dua of qunoot made a few years ago by Mishari Rashid al-Afasy
الَّلهُمُّ لَكَ الحَمْدُ أَنْتَ نُورُ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ وَمَنْ فِيهِنَّ، وَلَكَ الحَمْدُ أَنْتَ قَيِّمُ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ وَمَنْ فِيهِنَّ، وَلَكَ الحَمْدُ أَنْتَ رَبُّ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ وَمَنْ فِيهِنَّ
Allahumma lakal-hamdu anta noorus-samawaati wal-ardi wa man fihinna, wa lakal-hamdu anta qayyimus-samawaati wal-ardi wa man fihinna, wa lakal-hamdu anta rabbus-samawaati wal-ardi wa man fihinna.
O Allah! For You is all Praise - You are the Light of the Heavens and the Earth and all that is in them; and for You is all Praise – You are the Guardian of the Heavens and the Earth and all that is in them; and for You is all Praise – you are the Lord of the Heavens and the Earth and all that is in them.
أَنْتَ الحَقُّ وَوَعْدُكَ الحَقُّ وَقَوْلُكَ الحَقُّ وَلِقَاؤُكَ حَقٌّ وَالجَنَّةُ حَقٌّ وَالنَّارُ حَقٌّ والسَّاعَةُ حَقٌّ والنَّبِيّونَ حَقٌّ وَمُحَمَّدٌ حَقٌّ.
Antal-Haqqu wa wa'dukal-haqqu wa qawlukal-haqqu wa liqa’uka haqqun, wal-jannahtu haqqun wan-naru haqqun, was-sa'atu haqqun, wan-nabiyyoona haqqun wa Muhammadun haqq.
O Allah! You are the Truth, Your Promise is True, Your Speech is True, Your Meeting is True, Paradise is True, the Hellfire is True, the Hour is True, the Prophets are True and Muhammad is True.
اللهُمَّ لَكَ أَسْلَمْنَا وَبِكَ آمَنَّا وَعَلَيْكَ تَوَكَّلْنَا وَبِكَ خَاصَمْنَا وَإِلَيْكَ حاَكَمْنا فَاغْفِرْ لَنَا مَا قَدَّمْنَا وَمَا أَخَّرْنَا وَمَا أَسْرَرْنَا وَما أَعْلَنَّا أَنْتَ المُقَدِّمُ وَأَنْتَ المُؤَخِّرُ لا إِلهَ إِلا أَنْتَ.
Allahumma laka aslamnaa, wa bika aamannaa, wa alayka tawakkalnaa, wa bika khaasamnaa, wa ilayka haakamnaa, faghfir lanaa maa qaddamnaa wa maa akhkharnaa, wa maa asrarnaa wa maa a3lannaa, antal-muqaddimu wa antal-mu’akhkhiru laa ilaaha illaa ant.
O Allah! To You have we submitted our souls, in You have we believed, upon You have we relied, for You have we argued, to You have we taken our judgement, so forgive us all that we have done and what we have not done, what we have hidden and what we have disclosed. You are the Promoter, and You are the Delayer, there is no God but You.
اللهُمَّ صَلِّ عَلى مُحَمَّدٍ وَعَلَى آل مُحَمُّدٍ كَمَا صَلَّيْتَ عَلَى إِبْرَاهِيمَ وَعَلى آل إِبْرَاهِيمَ إِنَكَ حَمِيدٌ مَجِيد، وَبَارِكْ عَلى مُحَمَّدٍ وَعَلَى آل مُحَمُّدٍ كَمَا بَارَكْتَ عَلَى إِبْرَاهِيمَ وَعَلى آل إِبْرَاهِيمَ إِنَكَ حَمِيدٌ مَجِيد.
Allahumma salli ala Muhammadin wa ala Muhammad, kamaa sallayta ala Ibraheema wa alaa aali Ibrahim, Innaka hameedun Majeed. Wa barik ala Muhammadin wa ala aali Muhammad, kama barakta ala Ibrahima wa ala aali Ibrahim, Innaka hameedun majeed.
O Allah! Send prayers upon Muhammad and upon the followers Muhammad, just as you sent prayers upon Ibrahim and upon the followers of Ibrahim. Verily, you are Praiseworthy, Glorious. And O Allah! Send blessings upon Muhammad and upon the followers Muhammad, just as you sent blessings upon Ibrahim and upon the followers of Ibrahim. Verily, you are are Praiseworthy, Glorious.
اللهُمَّ أَعِزَّ الإِسْلامَ وَالمُسْلِمِينَ، اللهُمَّ أَعِزَّ الإِسْلامَ وَالمُسْلِمِينَ، وَأَذِلَّ الشِّرْكَ وَالمُشْرِكِينَ وَدَمِّرْ أَعْدآءَ الدِّينِ وَاحْمِ حَوْزَةَ الإسْلامِ يَا رَبَّ العَالَمِينَ.
Allahumma a'izzal-Islama wal-Muslimeen, Allahumma a'izzal-Islama wal-Muslimeen, wa adhillash-shirka wal-Mushrikeen, wa dammir a'daa’ad-deen, wahmi hawzatal-Islami ya rabbal-3alameen.
O Allah! Raise the standing of Islam and the Muslims. O Allah! Raise the standing and the Muslims, and degrade the standing of Kufr and the Kaafireen, and Shirk and the Mushrikeen. Destroy the enemies of the Deen, and protect the lands of Islam, O Lord of the Worlds.
اللهُمَّ انْصُرْ دِينَكَ وَكِتَابَكَ وَسُنَّةَ نَبِيِّكَ وَعِبادَكَ المُوَحِّدينَ.
Allahummansur deenaka wa kitabaka wa sunnahta nabiyyika wa ibaadakal-Muwahhideen.
O Allah! Grant Victory to Your religion, Your book, and the Sunnah of Your prophet, and Your monotheist slaves.
اللهُمَّ إِنَّا نَسْأَلُكَ بِأَنَّ لَكَ الحَمْدُ لا إِلهَ إِلا أَنْتَ، وَحْدَكَ لا شَرِيكَ لَكَ، المَنَّانُ، يَا بَدِيعَ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ، يَا ذَا الجَلالِ وَالإِكْرِام،ِ يَا حَيُّ يَا قَيُّومُ.
Allahumma inna nas’aluka bi anna lakal-hamd, laa ilaha illa ant, wahdaka la shareeka laka, al-mannan, ya badias-samawaati wal-ardi, ya dhal-jalali wal-ikraam, ya hayyu ya qayoom.
O Allah! We ask of You, by virtue of all praise being to You, there is no God worthy of worship but You alone, there is no partner for You, the Beneficient, Creator of the Heavens and the Earth, O Lord of Majesty and Bounty, O Alive Self-Subsisting One.
نَسَأَلُكَ بِأَنَّنا نَشْهَدُ أَنَّكَ أَنْتَ اللهُ لا إِلهَ إلا أَنْتَ، الأَحَدُ الصَّمَدُ الَّذي لَمْ يَلِدْ وَلَمْ يُولَدْ وَلَمْ يَكُنْ لَهُ كُفُواً أَحَد، أَنْ تَنْصُرَ الإِسْلامَ وَأَهْلَهُ فِي كُلِّ مَكَانٍ، اللهُمُّ اَنْصُرِ الإِسْلامَ وَأَهْلَهُ فِي كُلِّ مَكَانٍ، اللهُمَّ انْصُرِ الإِسْلامَ وَأَهْلَهُ فِي كُلِّ مَكَانٍ.
Nas’aluka bi ananaa nash-hadu annaka antallah, la ilaha illa ant, al-ahadus-samadu-ladhdhi lam yalid wa lam yu-lad wa lam yakul-lahu kufuwan ahad. An tansural-Islama wa ahlahu fi kulli makaan. Allahumma-nsuril-Islama wa ahlahu fi kulli makaan. Allahumma-nsuril-Islama wa ahlahu fi kulli makaan.
We ask You - by virtue of bearing witness that You are Allah, there is no God worthy of worship but You, the One, the Self-Sufficient, Who begets not, nor was He begotten, and there is none who is comparable to Him. - [we ask You] to grant victory to Islam and the Muslims everywhere. O Allah! Grant victory to Islam and the Muslims everywhere. O Allah! Grant victory to Islam and the Muslims everywhere.
إِلَيْكَ نَشْكُو ضَعْفَ قُوَّتِنَا وَقِلَّةَ حِيلَتِنا وَهَوَانَنا عَلَى النَّاسِ، يَا أَرْحَمَ الرَّاحِمِينَ، أَنْتَ رَبُّ المُسْتَضْعَفِينَ،
Ilayka nashku da'fa quwwatina, wa qillata heelatina, wa hawanana 'alan-naas, ya arhamar-rahimeen. Anta rabbul-mustad'afeen
To You we complain of our weakness, our failure, our shame before the people. O Most Merciful! You are the Lord of the weak and oppressed.
وَأَنْتَ رَبُّنَا، إِلَى مَنْ تَكِلُنَا، إِلَى بَعِيدٍ يَتَجَهَّرُنَا، أَوْ إِلَى عَدُوٍّ مَلَّكْتَهُ أَمْرَنَا، إِنْ لَمْ يَكُنْ بِكَ غَضَبٌ عَلَيْنَا فَلا نُبَالِي، غَيْرَ أَنَّ عَافِيَتَكَ هِيَ أَوْسَعُ لَنَا.
Wa anta rabbuna, ila man takiluna, ila ba'eedin yatajahharuna, wa ila 'aduwwin mallaktahu amrana, in lam yakun bika ghadabun 'alaynaa fala nubaali, ghayra anna 'afiyataka hiya awsa'u lana.
And You are our Lord, to whom will you entrust us? To a distant person who will treat us with enmity, or to an enemy You have made over us. If You are not angry at us, we would not care, for Your pardon is greater for us.
نَعُوذُ بِنُورِ وَجْهِكَ الَّذي أَشْرَقَتْ لَهُ الظُّلُمَاتُ، وَصَلُحَ عَلَيْهِ أَمْرُ الدُّنْيَا وَالآخِرَةِ، أَنْ يَحِلَّ عَلَيْنَا غَضَبُكَ، وَأَنْ يَنْزِلَ بِنَا سَخَطُكَ، لَكَ العُتْبَى حَتَّى تَرْضَى، وَلا حَوْلَ وَلا قُوَّةَ إِلا بِكَ،
Na'udhu bi noori wajhikal-ladhi ashraqat lahudh-dhulumat, wa saluha 'alayhi amrud-dunya wal-akhirah, ay-yahilla alayna ghadabuk, wa ay-yanzila bina sakhatuk, lakal-'utbaa hatta tarda, wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa bik.
We seek refuge in the Light of Your Face for which darknesses shine, and with which the affairs of this life and the Hereafter become good, from Your anger or displeasure fall upon us. You have the right to admonish until You are pleased, and there is no power and no might except in You.
فَإِلَيْكَ نَشْكُو ضَعْفَنَا، فَإِلَيْكَ نَشْكُو ضَعْفَنَا.
Fa ilayka nashku da'fana, fa ilayka nashku da'fana
So to You we complain of our weakness, to You we complain of our weakness.
اللهُمَّ هَذِهِ رُوسِيا جَائَتْ بِجَيْشِهَا وَحَدِيدِها، بِظُلْمِها وَفَخْرِها، جَاءتْ تُحَادُّكَ وَتُكَذِّبُ رَسُولَكَ، وَتُقَتِّلُ المُسْتَضْعَفِينَ مِنَ المُؤْمِنينَ فِي الشِّيشان.
Allahumma hadhihi roosiya ja’at bi jayshiha wa hadeediha, bi dhulmiha wa fakhriha, ja’at tuhadduka wa tukadhdhibu rasoolaka, wa tuqattilul-mustad'afina minal-mu’mineena fish-sheeshan.
O Allah! Roosiya came with her army and iron, with her oppression and arrogance, she came to challenge You and deny Your Messenger, and to slaughter the weak and oppressed believers in Sheeshan.
اللهُمَّ أَنْجِزْ لَهُمِ مَا وَعَدْتَهُمْ، اللهُمَّ أَنْجِزْ لَهُمِ مَا وَعَدْتَهُمْ، اللهُمَّ أَنْجِزْ لَهُمِ مَا وَعَدْتَهُمْ فِي كِتَابِكَ.
Allahumma anjiz lahum ma wa'adtahum, Allahumma anjiz lahum maa wa'adtahum, Allahumma anjiz lahum ma wa'adtahum fee kitabik.
O Allah! Bring about what You promised them. O Allah! Bring about what You promised them. O Allah! Bring about what You promised them in Your Book.
اللهُمَّ إِنَّنَا نَنْشُدُكَ عَهْدَكَ وَوَعْدَكَ، اللهُمَّ أَنْزِلْ نَصْرَكَ وَتَأيِيدَكَ، أَنْتَ عَضِيدُهُمْ وَأَنْتَ نَصِيرُهُمْ، وَبِكَ يُقَاتِلُونَ.
Allahumma innana nanshudu 'ahdaka wa wa'dak. Allahumma anzil nasraka wa ta’yidak, anta 'adeeduhum, wa anta naseeruhum, wa bika yuqatiloon.
O Allah! We seek Your protection and Your promise. O Allah! Bring down Your help and support, You are their helper and supporter, and for You they will fight.
اللهُمَّ إِنَّهُمْ مَغْلُوبُونَ فَانْتَصِرْ لَهُمْ.
Allahumma innahum maghloobuna fantasir lahum.
O Allah! They are helpless, so help them.
رَبَّنَا أَفْرِغْ عَلَيْهِمْ صَبْراً وَثَبِّتْ أَقْدَامَهُمْ وَانْصُرْهُمْ عَلَى القَوْمِ الكَافِرِينَ.
Rabbana afrigh 'alayhim sabran wa thabbit aqdamahum wansurhum 'alal-qawmil-kafireen.
Our Lord! Pour upon them patience, make them steadfast, and grant them victory over the Disbelivers.
اللهُمَّ مَكِّرْ لَهُمْ، وَاكْفِهِمْ بِمَا شِئْتَ إِنْ تَنْصُرْهُمْ فَلا غَالِبَ لَهُمْ، وَإِنْ تَخْذُلْهُمْ فَمَنْ ذَا الَّذي يَنْصُرهُمْ مِنْ بَعْدِكَ.
Allahumma makkir lahum, wakfihim bimaa shi’t. In tansurhum falaa ghaliba lahum, wa in takhdhulhum fa man dhal-ladh' yansurhum min ba'dika.
O Allah! Plot for them, and suffice them with what You please, if You support them then nobody can overpower them, and if You forsake them, then who will be able to support them after You?
لا إِلاَ إِلا اللهُ العَظيمُ الحَليم، لا إِلهَ إِلا اللهُ رَبَّ العَرْشِ العَظِيمِ، لا إلهَ إِلا اللهُ رَبُّ السَّمَاوَتِ وَرَبُّ الأَرْضِ وَرَبُّ العَرْشِ الكَرِيمِ.
La ilaha illAllahul adhimul-haleem. La ilaha illAllahu, rabbul-arshil-adheem. La ilaha illAllahu rabbus-samawaati wa rabbul-ardi wa rabbul-arshil-kareem.
There is no God but Allah, the Mighty the Forebearing, there is no God but Allah, Lord of the Mighty Throne, There is no God but Allah, Lord of the Heavens and Lord of the Earth and Lord of the Noble Throne.
اللهُمَّ أَنْجِ المُسْتَضْعَفينَ مِنَ المُؤمِنِينَ فِي الشِّيشان، اللهُمَّ أَنْجِ المُسْتَضْعَفينَ مِنَ المُؤمِنِينَ فِي الشِّيشان، اللهُمَّ أَنْجِ المُسْتَضْعَفينَ مِنَ المُؤمِنِينَ فِي الشِّيشان، اللهُمَّ اشْدُدْ وَطَأَتَكَ عَلَى رُوسِيا، اللهُمَّ اجْعَلْهَا عَلَيْهِمْ سِنِينَ كَسِنينِ يُوسُف،
Allahumma anjil-mustadafeena minal-mu’mineena fish-sheeshaan. Allahumma anjil-mustadafeena minal-mu’mineena fish-sheeshaan. Allahumma anjil-mustadafeena minal-mu’mineena fish-sheeshaan. Allahummash-dud wata’ataka ala roosiya, Allahummaj-alha 'alayhim sineena ka sineeni yusuf
O Allah! Help the weak and oppressed believers in Sheeshan. O Allah! Help the weak and oppressed believers in Sheeshan. O Allah! Help the weak and oppressed believers in Sheeshan. O Allah! increase Your force against Roosiya.
اللهُمَّ خُذْهُمْ أَخْذُ عَزِيزٍ مُقْتَدِر،ٍ اللهُمَّ اجْعَلْ الدَّائِرَةَ عَلَيْهِمْ اللهُمَّ أَرِنَا فِيِهِمْ يَوْماً أَسْوَداً،
Allahumma khudh-um akhdha 'zeezin muqtadir, Allahummaj'al id-da’irata alayhim, Allahumma arina feehim yawman aswada
O Allah! annihilate them with Your authority and power, O Allah! Let all they have done be done to them. O Allah! show us their black day.
اللهُمَّ شَتِّتْ شَمْلَهُمْ، وَمَزِّقْ جَمْعَهُمْ، وَخَرِّبْ دِيَارَهُمْ، وَدَمِّرْ أَسْلِحَتَهُمْ، اللهُمَّ أَنْزِلْ عَلَيْهِمُ الأَعَاصيرَ المُدَمِّرَةَ، وَالأَمْرَاضَ الفَتَّاكَةَ
Allahumma shattit shamlahum, wa mazziq jam'ahum, wa kharrib diyarahum, wa dammir aslihatahum. Allahumma anzil 'alayhimul-a'aseeral-mudam
mira wal-amradal-fattaaka
O Allah! Disperse their gatherings and shatter their unity, demolish their houses, destroy their weapons. O Allah! Send upon them destructive hurricanes, and fatal diseases.
اللهُمَّ أَحْصِهِمْ عَدَداً، وَاقْتُلْهُمْ بَدَداً، وَلا تُغَادِرْ مِنْهُمْ أَحَداً، وَاجْعَلْهُمْ عِبْرَةً لأَمْثَالِهِمْ مِنَ اليَهُودِ وَالنَّصَارى وَالمُشْرِكِينَ، أَذِلَّةً صَاغِرِينَ.
Allahumma ahsihim adada, waqtul-hum badada, wa la tughadir minhum ahada, waj'alhum ibratan li amthalihim minal-yahudi wan-nasaara wal-mushrikeena adhillatan saaghireen
O Allah! Count them and kill them selectively, and do not leave a single one of them, and make them an example for their likes among the yahuudi, nasaara, and mushriks, humiliated and abased.
اللهُمَّ إِنَّا نَجْعَلُكَ في نُحُورِهِِمْ، وَنَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شُرُورِهِمْ،
Allahumma inna naj'aluka fi nuhoorihim, wa na'udhu bika min shuruurihim.
O Allah! We want Your help against them and seek Your protection against their atrocities.
اللهُمًّ مُنْزِلَ الكِتَابَ، مُجْرِيَ السَّحَاب، َهَازِمَ الأَحْزَابَ، اِهْزِمْهُمْ وَزَلْزِلْهُمْ، وَأَرِنَا فِيهِمْ عَجَائِبَ قُدْرَتِكَ، فَإِنَّهُمْ لا يُعْجِزُونَكَ يَا قَوِيُّ يَا عَزِيزُ.
Allahumma munzilal-kitab, mujriyas-sahab, hazimal-ahzaab, ihzimhum wa zalzilhum, wa arina feehim aja’iba qudratik, fa innahum la yu'jizuunaka ya qawiyyu ya 'Aziz
Oh Allah! Revealer of The Book, Controller and Dominator of the clouds, Defeater of the armies of Your enemies…defeat them and make the ground shake beneath their feet, and show us in them the wonders of Your Might, for they are weak before You. O Mighty, O Powerful!.
رَبَّنَا، أَنْتَ عَضِيدُنَا، وَاَنْتَ نَصِيرُنَا، وَأَنْتَ حَسْبُنَا وَنِعْمَ الوَكِيلِ.
Rabbana anta adeeduna wa anta naseeruna, wa anta hasbuna wa ni'mal-wakeel.
O Allah! You are our Helper, and You are our Victor, and You are Sufficient for us, and the Best Guardian.
اللهُمَّ فُكَّ قَيْدَ أَسْرَانَا وَأَسْرىَ المُسْلِمِِِينَ، اللهُمَّ فُكَّ قَيْدَ أَسْرَانَا وَأَسْرَى المُسْلِمِِِينَ، اللهُمَّ فُكَّ قَيْدَ أَسْرَانَا وَأَسْرَى المُسْلِمِِِينَ، وَرُدَّهُمْ إِلُى أَهْلِهِمْ سَالِمِينَ،
Allahumma fukka qayda asrana wa asral-muslimeen, Allahumma fukka qayda asranaa wa asral-muslimeen, Allahumma fukka qayda asrana wa asral-muslimeen, wa ruddahum ilaa ahlihim salimeen.
O Allah! Break free the shackles of our prisoners and the prisoners of the Muslims. O Allah! Break free the shackles of our prisoners and the prisoners of the Muslims. O Allah! Break free the shackles of our prisoners and the prisoners of the Muslims, and return them safely to their families.
اللهُمَّ إِنَّهُمْ فِي حَاجَةٍ عَاجِلُةٍ إِلَى رَحَمَاتِكَ، اللهُمَّ إِنَّهُمْ فِي حَاجَةٍ عَاجِلُةٍ إِلَى رَحَمَاتِكَ، اللهُمَّ إِنَّهُمْ فِي حَاجَةٍ عَاجِلُةٍ إِلَى رَحَمَاتِكَ، فَأَنْزِلْ عَلَيْهِمْ رَحمَاتِكَ يَا رحْمَاَنُ يَا رَحِيمُ، فَأَنْزِلْ عَلَيْهِمْ رَحمَاتِكَ يَا رحْمَاَنُ يَا رَحِيمُ.
Allahumma innahum fi hajatin 'ajilatin ila rahamatik, Allahumma innahum fi haajatin 'ajilatin ila rahamatik, Allahumma innahum fi haajatin 'ajilatin ila rahamatik, fa anzil alayhim rahamatika Ya Rahmanu, Ya Raheem, fa anzil alayhim rahamatika Ya Rahmaanu Ya Raheem.
O Allah! They are in urgent need of Your Mercies. O Allah! They are in urgent need of Your Mercies. O Allah! they are in urgent need of Your Mercies, so send upon them Your Mercies. O Most Merciful, O Most Kind, so send upon them Your Mercies O Most Mericufl, O Most Kind.
اللهُمَّ مَنْ آذَاهُمْ فَآذِهِ وَمَنْ عَادَاهُمْ فَعَادِهِ،
Allahumma man adhahum fa adhihi, wa man adahum fa adihi.
O Allah! Whoever has harmed them, then harm him, and whoever has shown enmity to them, then show enmity to them.
لا إِلهَ إِلا أَنْتَ سُبْحَانَكَ، إِنَّ كُنَّا مِنَ الظَالِمِينَ.
La ilaha illa anta subhanaka, inna kunna minadh-dhalimeen.
There is not God but You, Glory be to You, Truly we have been of the wrongdoers.
اللهُمَّ رِبَّنَا عَزَّ جَارُكَ، وَجَلَّ ثَنَاؤُكَ، وَتَقَدَّسَتْ أَسْماؤُكَ، اللهُمَّ لا يُرَدُّ أَمْرُكَ وَلا يُهْزَمُ جُنْدُكَ سُبْحَانَكَ وَبِحَمْدِكَ.
Allahumma rabbana azza jaaruk, wa jalla thana’uk, wa taqaddasat asma’uk, Allahumma la yuraddu amruk, wa la yuhzamu junduk, subhanaka wa bi hamdik.
O Allah! Your allies are strong, Your praise is glorified, Your names are sanctified. O Allah! Your command cannot be repelled, and Your armies cannot be defeated.
اللهُمَّ أَعِدِ المَسْجِدَ الأَقْصى إِلَى رِحَابِ المُسْلِمِينَ، اللهُمَّ أَعِدِ المَسْجِدَ الأَقْصى إِلَى رِحَابِ المُسْلِمِينَ، اللهُمَّ أَعِدِ المَسْجِدَ الأَقْصى إِلَى رِحَابِ المُسْلِمِينَ، وَارْزُقْنَا فِيهِ صَلاةً قَبْلَ الْمَمَاتِ .
Allahumma a'idil-masjidil-aqsa ila rihabil-muslimeen, Allahumma a'idil-masjidil-aqsa ila rihabil-muslimeen, Allahumma a'idil-masjidil-aqsa ila rihabil-muslimeen, war-zuqna feehi salatan qablal-mamaat.
O Allah! Return al-Masjid al-Aqsa to the Muslims. O Allah! Return al-Masjid al-Aqsa to the Muslims. O Allah! Return al-Masjid al-Aqsa to the Muslims, and bestow on us a prayer in it before we die.
اللهُمَّ طَهِّرْهُ مِنْ إِخْوَانِ القِرَدَةِ وَالخَنَازِيرِ، اللهُمَّ مَزِّقْهُمْ كُلَّ مُمَزَّقٍ، اللهُمَّ فَرِّقْ بَيْنَهُمْ وَبَينْ مَنْ شَايَعَهُمْ.
Allahumma tahhirhu min ikhwanil-qiradati wal-khanazeer, allahumma mazziqhum kulla mumazzaq, Allahumma farriq baynahum wa bayna man shaya'ahum.
O Allah! purify it from the brothers of monkeys and khanzeer. O Allah! Tear them to pieces, and sow dissension between them and their followers.
اللهُمَّ أَصْلِحْ أَحْوَالَ المُسْلِمِِينَ فِي فِلِسطِينَ، اللهُمَّ أَصْلِحْ أَحْوَالَ المُسْلِمِِينَ فِي فِلِسطِينَ وفي كُلِّ مَكَانٍ، يَا ذَا الجَلالِ وَالإِكْرِامِ.
Allahumma aslih ahwaalal-muslimeena fi filisteen, Allahumma aslih ahwaalal-muslimeena fi filisteena wa fi kulli makaanin ya dhul-jalali wal-ikraam.
O Allah! Rectify the affairs of the Muslims in Palestine. O Allah! Rectify the affairs of the Muslims in Palestine and in every place, O Lord of Majesty and Bounty.
اللهُمَّ لا تَجْعَلْ لِكَافِرٍ عَلَيْنَا سَبِيلاً، اللهُمَّ إِنَّا نَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ سُوءِ القَضَاءِ، وَدَرْكِ الشَّقَاءِ، وَشَمَاتَةِ الأَعْدَاءِ، وَجَهْدِ البَلاءِ، وَنَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ مُنْكَراتِ الأَخْلاقِ وَالأَعْمَالِ وَالأَهْوَاءِ وَالأَدْوَاءِ.
Allahumma la taj'al li kafirin alayna sabeela, Allahumma inna na'udhu bika min suu’il-qada, wa darkish-shaqa’, wa shamatatil-a'da’, wa jahdil-bala’, wa na'udhu bika min munkaratil-akhlaqi wal-amali wal-ahwa’i wal-adwa’.
O Allah! Do not grant a disbeliever any way to harm us. O Allah! We seek refuge in You from a bad decree, being overtaken by misery, the gloats of the enemies, and the pains of afflictions, and we seek refuge in You from the disliked manners, deeds, desires and diseases.
اللهُمَّ أَبْرِمْ لِهَذِهْ الأُمَّةِ أَمْرَ رُشْدٍ، يُعَزُّ فِيهِ أَهْلُ طَاعَتِكَ، وَيُذَلَّ فِيهِ أَهْلُ مَعْصِيَتِكَ، وَيُؤْمَرُ فِيهِ بِالمُعْرُوفِ وَيُنْهَى فِيْهِ عَنِ المُنْكَرِ عِلِى بَصِيرَةٍ، يَا ذَا الجَلالِ وَالإِكْرِامْ.
Allahumma abrim li hadhihil-ummati amra rushd, yu'azzu fihi ahlu ta'atik, wa yudhallu fihi ahlu ma'siyatik, wa yu’maru feehi bil-ma'ruf, wa yunha fihi anil-munkari ala baseeratin, ya dhul-jalali wal-ikram.
O Allah! Grant this Ummah a guiding command, by which those who obey You are strengthened, and those who disobey You are degraded, and in which the good is commanded and the evil is forbidden with clear knowledge, O Lord of Majesty and Bounty.
اللهُمَّ أَرِنَا الحَقَّ حَقّاً وَارْزُقْنَا التِبَاعَةَ وَأَرِنَا البَاطِلَ بَاطِلاً وَارْزُقْنَا اجْتِنَابَهُ، بِرَحْمَتِكَ يَا أَرْحَمَ الرَّاحِمِينَ.
Allahumma arinal-haqqa haqqan warzuqnat-tiba'ah, wa arinal-batila batilan warzuqnaj-tinabah, bi rahmatika ya arhamar-rahimeen.
O Allah! Let us see the good as good, and bless us with following it. And show us the falsehood as falsehood, and bless us with staying away from it, with Your mercy, O Most Merciful!
اللهُمَّ وَفِّقْ إِمَامَنَا لِما تُحِبُّ وَتَرْضَى، وَخُذْ بِنَاصِيَتِهِ لِلبِرِّ وَالتَقْوَى، اللهُمَّ وَفِّقْهُ لِهُدَاك،َ وَاجْعَلْ عَمَلَهُ فِي رِضَاكَ، وَهَيِّئ لَهُ البِطَانَةَ الصَّالِحَةَ النَّاصِحَةَ الَتي تَدُلُّهُ عَلَى الخَيْرِ وَتُعِيْنُهُ عَلَيْهِ يَا ذَا الجَلالِ وَالإِكْرِامِ.
Allahumma waffiq imamana lima tuhibbu wa tarda, wa khudh bi nasiyatihi lil birri wat-taqwa, Allahumma waffiqhu li hudak, waj'al amalahu fi ridak, wa hayyi’ lahul-bitanatas-salihatan-nasihah allati tadulluhu alal-khairi wa tu'inuhu alayhi ya dhul-jalali wal-ikraam.
O Allah! Enable our Imam to act by what You love and what pleases you, and lead him by his forelock to righteousness and piety. O Allah! Grant him Your guidance, and be pleased with his deeds, and grant him a guiding, righteous inner sense that guides him and helps him to what is good, O Lord of Majesty and Bounty.
وَوَفِّقْ جَمِيعَ وُلاةَ أُمُورِ المُسْلِمِينَ لِلْعَمَلْ بِكِتَابِكَ، وَاتِّبَاعِ سُنَّةِ نَبِيِّكَ مُحَمَّدٍ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ.
Wa waffiq jami'a wulata umuuril-muslimeena lil amali bi kitabik, wat-tiba'i sunnati nabiyyika sallallahu alayhi wasallam.
And enable all the guardians of the Muslims to act by Your Book, and follow the sunnah of Your prophet Muhammad peace be upon him.
اللهُمَ آَمِنَّا فِي أَوْطَانِنَا، وَأَدِمْ نِعْمَةَ الأَمْنِ وَالاسْتِقْرِارِ فِي بِلادِنَا،
Allahumma aminna fi awtanina, wa adim ni'matal-amni wal-istiqrari fi biladina
O Allah! Grant us security in our lands, and continue to bless us with peace and settlement there.
اللهُمَّ مََنْ أَرادَنَا وَبِلادَنَا وَالمُسْلِمِينَ بِسُوءٍ فَأَشْغِلْهُ فِي نَفْسِهِ، وَاجْعَلْ كَيْدَهُ فِي نَحْرِهِ، وَاجْعَلْ تَدْبِيرَهُ تَدْمِيرَه.
Allahumma man aradana wa biladina bi su’in fash-ghilhu fi nafsih, waj'al kaydahu fi nahrih, waj'al tadbirahu tadmeerah.
O Allah! Whoever wants to harm us and our lands and the Muslims, then keep them busy with their own troubles, and return their plots to their own necks, and make their plans the cause of their own destruction.
اللهُمَّ عَلَيْكَ بِمَنْ أَدْخَلَ إِلى بِلادِنا وَبِلادِ المُسْلِمِينَ المُخَدِّرِاتِ وَالمُسْكِرَاتِ، اللهُمَّ عَلَيْكَ بِمَنْ أَدْخَلَها، اللهُمَّ عَلَيْكَ بِمُرَوِّجِيهَا، وَصَانِعِيهَا وَتُجَّارِها ،اللهُمَّ عَلَيْكَ بِمُهَرِّبِيها وَبائِعيها وَمَنْ أَعَانَ عَلى اِنْتِشَارِهَا،
Allahumma alayka bi man adkhala ila biladina wa biladil-Muslimeenal-Mukhaddirati wal-muskirat, Allahumma alayka bi man adkhalaha, Allahumma alayka bi murawwijehaa, wa sani'iha wa tujjariha, Allahumma alayka bi muharribiia wa ba’iha wa man a'ana alan-tishariha.
O Allah! Destroy those who brought to our land and the land of Muslims, drugs and intoxicants. O Allah! Destroy who brought them. O Allah! Destroy those who spread them and who make them and who trade in them. O Allah! Destroy those who smuggle them and sell them and help to distribute them.
اللهُمَّ إِنْ لَمْ تُرِدْ هِدَايَةً لَهُمْ فَالْعَنْهُمْ لَعْناً كَبِيراً، اللهُمَّ إِنْ لَمْ تُرِدْ هِدَايَةً لَهُمْ فَالْعَنْهُمْ لَعْناً كَبِيراً. رَبَّنا آتِهِمْ ضِعْفَيْنِ مِنَ العَذَابِ وَالْعَنْهُمْ لَعْناً كَبِيراً، في الدُّنْيا وَالآخِرَةِ،
Allahumma in lam turid hidayatan lahum fal'anhum la'nan kabira, Allahumma in lam turid hidayatan lahum fal'anhum la'nan kabira, rabbana atihim di'fayni minal-'adhabi wal'anhum la'nan kab'ra fid-dunya wal-akhirah.
O Allah! If You do not want to guide them, then grant them a great curse and damnation, if You do not want to guide them, then grant them a great curse and damnation, if You do not want to guide them, then grant them a great curse and damnation in this world and the next.
اللهُمَّ ارْفُعْ عَنَّا الغَلا وَالوَبَاء وَالرِّبا وَالزِّنا وَالزَّلازِلَ وَالمِحَنَ، وَسُوءَ الفِتَنِ، مَا ظَهَرَ مِنْهَا وَما بَطَنَ، عَنْ بَلَدِنَا هَذَا خَاصَّةً وَعَنْ سَائِرِ بِلادِ المُسْلِمِينَ، بِرَحْمَتِكَ يَا أِرْحَمَ الرَّاحِمِينَ
Allahummar-fa' 'annal-ghala wal-waba’ war-riba waz-zina wal-zalazila wal-mihan, wa su'al-fitan, ma dhahara minha wa ma batan, 'an biladina hadha khasatan wa 'an sa’iri biladil-muslimeen, bi rahmatika ya arhamar-rahimeen.
O Allah! Remove from us transgression, plagues, fornication, earthquakes and tests, and bad trials, both apparent and hidden…from this land of ours especially and from all lands of the Muslims, with Your Mercy, O Most Merciful!
اللهُمَّ يَا حَيُّ يَا قَيُّومُ بِرَحْمَتِكَ نَسْتَغِيثُ، أَصْلِحْ لَنَا شَأنَنَا كُلَّهُ، وَلا تَكِلْنَا إِلى أَنْفُسِنَا طَرْفَةَ عَيْنٍ ولا أَقَلَّ مِنْ ذَلِكَ
Allahumma Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyoom, bi rahmatika nastagheeth, aslih lana sha'nana kullahu wa la takilna ila anfusina tarfata aynin wa la aqalla min dhalik.
O Ever-Living! O Self-Subsisting! and Supporter of all! By Your Mercy we seek assistance, rectify for us all of our affairs and do not leave us to ourselves ever for the blink of an eye or less than that.
وَالحَمْدُ للهِ رَبِّ العَالِمِينَ ، وَصَلِّى اللهُمَّ وَسلَّمَ وَبَارَكَ عَلى نَبِيِّنَا مُحَمَّدٍ وَعَلى آلِهِ وَصَحْبِهِ والتَّابِعِينَ.
Walhamdulillahi rabbil-alameen, wa sallal-lahumma wa sallama wa baraka ala nabiyyina Muhammadin wa ala alihi wa sahbihi wat-tabi'een.
And all praises are to Allah Lord of the Worlds, and send Your prayers, peace and blessings on our Prophet Muhammad and on his family, companions and followers.
اللّـهُمَّ آميـــــــــــــــــــن اللّـهُمَّ آميـــــــــــــــــــن اللّـهُمَّ آميـــــــــــــــــــن
Allahumma Ameen. Allahumma Ameen. Allahumma Ameen.
O Allah! Please accept. O Allah! Please accept. O Allah! Please accept.
O Allah! Disperse their gatherings and shatter their unity, demolish their houses, destroy their weapons. O Allah! Send upon them destructive hurricanes, and fatal diseases.
اللهُمَّ أَحْصِهِمْ عَدَداً، وَاقْتُلْهُمْ بَدَداً، وَلا تُغَادِرْ مِنْهُمْ أَحَداً، وَاجْعَلْهُمْ عِبْرَةً لأَمْثَالِهِمْ مِنَ اليَهُودِ وَالنَّصَارى وَالمُشْرِكِينَ، أَذِلَّةً صَاغِرِينَ.
Allahumma ahsihim adada, waqtul-hum badada, wa la tughadir minhum ahada, waj'alhum ibratan li amthalihim minal-yahudi wan-nasaara wal-mushrikeena adhillatan saaghireen
O Allah! Count them and kill them selectively, and do not leave a single one of them, and make them an example for their likes among the yahuudi, nasaara, and mushriks, humiliated and abased.
اللهُمَّ إِنَّا نَجْعَلُكَ في نُحُورِهِِمْ، وَنَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شُرُورِهِمْ،
Allahumma inna naj'aluka fi nuhoorihim, wa na'udhu bika min shuruurihim.
O Allah! We want Your help against them and seek Your protection against their atrocities.
اللهُمًّ مُنْزِلَ الكِتَابَ، مُجْرِيَ السَّحَاب، َهَازِمَ الأَحْزَابَ، اِهْزِمْهُمْ وَزَلْزِلْهُمْ، وَأَرِنَا فِيهِمْ عَجَائِبَ قُدْرَتِكَ، فَإِنَّهُمْ لا يُعْجِزُونَكَ يَا قَوِيُّ يَا عَزِيزُ.
Allahumma munzilal-kitab, mujriyas-sahab, hazimal-ahzaab, ihzimhum wa zalzilhum, wa arina feehim aja’iba qudratik, fa innahum la yu'jizuunaka ya qawiyyu ya 'Aziz
Oh Allah! Revealer of The Book, Controller and Dominator of the clouds, Defeater of the armies of Your enemies…defeat them and make the ground shake beneath their feet, and show us in them the wonders of Your Might, for they are weak before You. O Mighty, O Powerful!.
رَبَّنَا، أَنْتَ عَضِيدُنَا، وَاَنْتَ نَصِيرُنَا، وَأَنْتَ حَسْبُنَا وَنِعْمَ الوَكِيلِ.
Rabbana anta adeeduna wa anta naseeruna, wa anta hasbuna wa ni'mal-wakeel.
O Allah! You are our Helper, and You are our Victor, and You are Sufficient for us, and the Best Guardian.
اللهُمَّ فُكَّ قَيْدَ أَسْرَانَا وَأَسْرىَ المُسْلِمِِِينَ، اللهُمَّ فُكَّ قَيْدَ أَسْرَانَا وَأَسْرَى المُسْلِمِِِينَ، اللهُمَّ فُكَّ قَيْدَ أَسْرَانَا وَأَسْرَى المُسْلِمِِِينَ، وَرُدَّهُمْ إِلُى أَهْلِهِمْ سَالِمِينَ،
Allahumma fukka qayda asrana wa asral-muslimeen, Allahumma fukka qayda asranaa wa asral-muslimeen, Allahumma fukka qayda asrana wa asral-muslimeen, wa ruddahum ilaa ahlihim salimeen.
O Allah! Break free the shackles of our prisoners and the prisoners of the Muslims. O Allah! Break free the shackles of our prisoners and the prisoners of the Muslims. O Allah! Break free the shackles of our prisoners and the prisoners of the Muslims, and return them safely to their families.
اللهُمَّ إِنَّهُمْ فِي حَاجَةٍ عَاجِلُةٍ إِلَى رَحَمَاتِكَ، اللهُمَّ إِنَّهُمْ فِي حَاجَةٍ عَاجِلُةٍ إِلَى رَحَمَاتِكَ، اللهُمَّ إِنَّهُمْ فِي حَاجَةٍ عَاجِلُةٍ إِلَى رَحَمَاتِكَ، فَأَنْزِلْ عَلَيْهِمْ رَحمَاتِكَ يَا رحْمَاَنُ يَا رَحِيمُ، فَأَنْزِلْ عَلَيْهِمْ رَحمَاتِكَ يَا رحْمَاَنُ يَا رَحِيمُ.
Allahumma innahum fi hajatin 'ajilatin ila rahamatik, Allahumma innahum fi haajatin 'ajilatin ila rahamatik, Allahumma innahum fi haajatin 'ajilatin ila rahamatik, fa anzil alayhim rahamatika Ya Rahmanu, Ya Raheem, fa anzil alayhim rahamatika Ya Rahmaanu Ya Raheem.
O Allah! They are in urgent need of Your Mercies. O Allah! They are in urgent need of Your Mercies. O Allah! they are in urgent need of Your Mercies, so send upon them Your Mercies. O Most Merciful, O Most Kind, so send upon them Your Mercies O Most Mericufl, O Most Kind.
اللهُمَّ مَنْ آذَاهُمْ فَآذِهِ وَمَنْ عَادَاهُمْ فَعَادِهِ،
Allahumma man adhahum fa adhihi, wa man adahum fa adihi.
O Allah! Whoever has harmed them, then harm him, and whoever has shown enmity to them, then show enmity to them.
لا إِلهَ إِلا أَنْتَ سُبْحَانَكَ، إِنَّ كُنَّا مِنَ الظَالِمِينَ.
La ilaha illa anta subhanaka, inna kunna minadh-dhalimeen.
There is not God but You, Glory be to You, Truly we have been of the wrongdoers.
اللهُمَّ رِبَّنَا عَزَّ جَارُكَ، وَجَلَّ ثَنَاؤُكَ، وَتَقَدَّسَتْ أَسْماؤُكَ، اللهُمَّ لا يُرَدُّ أَمْرُكَ وَلا يُهْزَمُ جُنْدُكَ سُبْحَانَكَ وَبِحَمْدِكَ.
Allahumma rabbana azza jaaruk, wa jalla thana’uk, wa taqaddasat asma’uk, Allahumma la yuraddu amruk, wa la yuhzamu junduk, subhanaka wa bi hamdik.
O Allah! Your allies are strong, Your praise is glorified, Your names are sanctified. O Allah! Your command cannot be repelled, and Your armies cannot be defeated.
اللهُمَّ أَعِدِ المَسْجِدَ الأَقْصى إِلَى رِحَابِ المُسْلِمِينَ، اللهُمَّ أَعِدِ المَسْجِدَ الأَقْصى إِلَى رِحَابِ المُسْلِمِينَ، اللهُمَّ أَعِدِ المَسْجِدَ الأَقْصى إِلَى رِحَابِ المُسْلِمِينَ، وَارْزُقْنَا فِيهِ صَلاةً قَبْلَ الْمَمَاتِ .
Allahumma a'idil-masjidil-aqsa ila rihabil-muslimeen, Allahumma a'idil-masjidil-aqsa ila rihabil-muslimeen, Allahumma a'idil-masjidil-aqsa ila rihabil-muslimeen, war-zuqna feehi salatan qablal-mamaat.
O Allah! Return al-Masjid al-Aqsa to the Muslims. O Allah! Return al-Masjid al-Aqsa to the Muslims. O Allah! Return al-Masjid al-Aqsa to the Muslims, and bestow on us a prayer in it before we die.
اللهُمَّ طَهِّرْهُ مِنْ إِخْوَانِ القِرَدَةِ وَالخَنَازِيرِ، اللهُمَّ مَزِّقْهُمْ كُلَّ مُمَزَّقٍ، اللهُمَّ فَرِّقْ بَيْنَهُمْ وَبَينْ مَنْ شَايَعَهُمْ.
Allahumma tahhirhu min ikhwanil-qiradati wal-khanazeer, allahumma mazziqhum kulla mumazzaq, Allahumma farriq baynahum wa bayna man shaya'ahum.
O Allah! purify it from the brothers of monkeys and khanzeer. O Allah! Tear them to pieces, and sow dissension between them and their followers.
اللهُمَّ أَصْلِحْ أَحْوَالَ المُسْلِمِِينَ فِي فِلِسطِينَ، اللهُمَّ أَصْلِحْ أَحْوَالَ المُسْلِمِِينَ فِي فِلِسطِينَ وفي كُلِّ مَكَانٍ، يَا ذَا الجَلالِ وَالإِكْرِامِ.
Allahumma aslih ahwaalal-muslimeena fi filisteen, Allahumma aslih ahwaalal-muslimeena fi filisteena wa fi kulli makaanin ya dhul-jalali wal-ikraam.
O Allah! Rectify the affairs of the Muslims in Palestine. O Allah! Rectify the affairs of the Muslims in Palestine and in every place, O Lord of Majesty and Bounty.
اللهُمَّ لا تَجْعَلْ لِكَافِرٍ عَلَيْنَا سَبِيلاً، اللهُمَّ إِنَّا نَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ سُوءِ القَضَاءِ، وَدَرْكِ الشَّقَاءِ، وَشَمَاتَةِ الأَعْدَاءِ، وَجَهْدِ البَلاءِ، وَنَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ مُنْكَراتِ الأَخْلاقِ وَالأَعْمَالِ وَالأَهْوَاءِ وَالأَدْوَاءِ.
Allahumma la taj'al li kafirin alayna sabeela, Allahumma inna na'udhu bika min suu’il-qada, wa darkish-shaqa’, wa shamatatil-a'da’, wa jahdil-bala’, wa na'udhu bika min munkaratil-akhlaqi wal-amali wal-ahwa’i wal-adwa’.
O Allah! Do not grant a disbeliever any way to harm us. O Allah! We seek refuge in You from a bad decree, being overtaken by misery, the gloats of the enemies, and the pains of afflictions, and we seek refuge in You from the disliked manners, deeds, desires and diseases.
اللهُمَّ أَبْرِمْ لِهَذِهْ الأُمَّةِ أَمْرَ رُشْدٍ، يُعَزُّ فِيهِ أَهْلُ طَاعَتِكَ، وَيُذَلَّ فِيهِ أَهْلُ مَعْصِيَتِكَ، وَيُؤْمَرُ فِيهِ بِالمُعْرُوفِ وَيُنْهَى فِيْهِ عَنِ المُنْكَرِ عِلِى بَصِيرَةٍ، يَا ذَا الجَلالِ وَالإِكْرِامْ.
Allahumma abrim li hadhihil-ummati amra rushd, yu'azzu fihi ahlu ta'atik, wa yudhallu fihi ahlu ma'siyatik, wa yu’maru feehi bil-ma'ruf, wa yunha fihi anil-munkari ala baseeratin, ya dhul-jalali wal-ikram.
O Allah! Grant this Ummah a guiding command, by which those who obey You are strengthened, and those who disobey You are degraded, and in which the good is commanded and the evil is forbidden with clear knowledge, O Lord of Majesty and Bounty.
اللهُمَّ أَرِنَا الحَقَّ حَقّاً وَارْزُقْنَا التِبَاعَةَ وَأَرِنَا البَاطِلَ بَاطِلاً وَارْزُقْنَا اجْتِنَابَهُ، بِرَحْمَتِكَ يَا أَرْحَمَ الرَّاحِمِينَ.
Allahumma arinal-haqqa haqqan warzuqnat-tiba'ah, wa arinal-batila batilan warzuqnaj-tinabah, bi rahmatika ya arhamar-rahimeen.
O Allah! Let us see the good as good, and bless us with following it. And show us the falsehood as falsehood, and bless us with staying away from it, with Your mercy, O Most Merciful!
اللهُمَّ وَفِّقْ إِمَامَنَا لِما تُحِبُّ وَتَرْضَى، وَخُذْ بِنَاصِيَتِهِ لِلبِرِّ وَالتَقْوَى، اللهُمَّ وَفِّقْهُ لِهُدَاك،َ وَاجْعَلْ عَمَلَهُ فِي رِضَاكَ، وَهَيِّئ لَهُ البِطَانَةَ الصَّالِحَةَ النَّاصِحَةَ الَتي تَدُلُّهُ عَلَى الخَيْرِ وَتُعِيْنُهُ عَلَيْهِ يَا ذَا الجَلالِ وَالإِكْرِامِ.
Allahumma waffiq imamana lima tuhibbu wa tarda, wa khudh bi nasiyatihi lil birri wat-taqwa, Allahumma waffiqhu li hudak, waj'al amalahu fi ridak, wa hayyi’ lahul-bitanatas-salihatan-nasihah allati tadulluhu alal-khairi wa tu'inuhu alayhi ya dhul-jalali wal-ikraam.
O Allah! Enable our Imam to act by what You love and what pleases you, and lead him by his forelock to righteousness and piety. O Allah! Grant him Your guidance, and be pleased with his deeds, and grant him a guiding, righteous inner sense that guides him and helps him to what is good, O Lord of Majesty and Bounty.
وَوَفِّقْ جَمِيعَ وُلاةَ أُمُورِ المُسْلِمِينَ لِلْعَمَلْ بِكِتَابِكَ، وَاتِّبَاعِ سُنَّةِ نَبِيِّكَ مُحَمَّدٍ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ.
Wa waffiq jami'a wulata umuuril-muslimeena lil amali bi kitabik, wat-tiba'i sunnati nabiyyika sallallahu alayhi wasallam.
And enable all the guardians of the Muslims to act by Your Book, and follow the sunnah of Your prophet Muhammad peace be upon him.
اللهُمَ آَمِنَّا فِي أَوْطَانِنَا، وَأَدِمْ نِعْمَةَ الأَمْنِ وَالاسْتِقْرِارِ فِي بِلادِنَا،
Allahumma aminna fi awtanina, wa adim ni'matal-amni wal-istiqrari fi biladina
O Allah! Grant us security in our lands, and continue to bless us with peace and settlement there.
اللهُمَّ مََنْ أَرادَنَا وَبِلادَنَا وَالمُسْلِمِينَ بِسُوءٍ فَأَشْغِلْهُ فِي نَفْسِهِ، وَاجْعَلْ كَيْدَهُ فِي نَحْرِهِ، وَاجْعَلْ تَدْبِيرَهُ تَدْمِيرَه.
Allahumma man aradana wa biladina bi su’in fash-ghilhu fi nafsih, waj'al kaydahu fi nahrih, waj'al tadbirahu tadmeerah.
O Allah! Whoever wants to harm us and our lands and the Muslims, then keep them busy with their own troubles, and return their plots to their own necks, and make their plans the cause of their own destruction.
اللهُمَّ عَلَيْكَ بِمَنْ أَدْخَلَ إِلى بِلادِنا وَبِلادِ المُسْلِمِينَ المُخَدِّرِاتِ وَالمُسْكِرَاتِ، اللهُمَّ عَلَيْكَ بِمَنْ أَدْخَلَها، اللهُمَّ عَلَيْكَ بِمُرَوِّجِيهَا، وَصَانِعِيهَا وَتُجَّارِها ،اللهُمَّ عَلَيْكَ بِمُهَرِّبِيها وَبائِعيها وَمَنْ أَعَانَ عَلى اِنْتِشَارِهَا،
Allahumma alayka bi man adkhala ila biladina wa biladil-Muslimeenal-Mukhaddirati wal-muskirat, Allahumma alayka bi man adkhalaha, Allahumma alayka bi murawwijehaa, wa sani'iha wa tujjariha, Allahumma alayka bi muharribiia wa ba’iha wa man a'ana alan-tishariha.
O Allah! Destroy those who brought to our land and the land of Muslims, drugs and intoxicants. O Allah! Destroy who brought them. O Allah! Destroy those who spread them and who make them and who trade in them. O Allah! Destroy those who smuggle them and sell them and help to distribute them.
اللهُمَّ إِنْ لَمْ تُرِدْ هِدَايَةً لَهُمْ فَالْعَنْهُمْ لَعْناً كَبِيراً، اللهُمَّ إِنْ لَمْ تُرِدْ هِدَايَةً لَهُمْ فَالْعَنْهُمْ لَعْناً كَبِيراً. رَبَّنا آتِهِمْ ضِعْفَيْنِ مِنَ العَذَابِ وَالْعَنْهُمْ لَعْناً كَبِيراً، في الدُّنْيا وَالآخِرَةِ،
Allahumma in lam turid hidayatan lahum fal'anhum la'nan kabira, Allahumma in lam turid hidayatan lahum fal'anhum la'nan kabira, rabbana atihim di'fayni minal-'adhabi wal'anhum la'nan kab'ra fid-dunya wal-akhirah.
O Allah! If You do not want to guide them, then grant them a great curse and damnation, if You do not want to guide them, then grant them a great curse and damnation, if You do not want to guide them, then grant them a great curse and damnation in this world and the next.
اللهُمَّ ارْفُعْ عَنَّا الغَلا وَالوَبَاء وَالرِّبا وَالزِّنا وَالزَّلازِلَ وَالمِحَنَ، وَسُوءَ الفِتَنِ، مَا ظَهَرَ مِنْهَا وَما بَطَنَ، عَنْ بَلَدِنَا هَذَا خَاصَّةً وَعَنْ سَائِرِ بِلادِ المُسْلِمِينَ، بِرَحْمَتِكَ يَا أِرْحَمَ الرَّاحِمِينَ
Allahummar-fa' 'annal-ghala wal-waba’ war-riba waz-zina wal-zalazila wal-mihan, wa su'al-fitan, ma dhahara minha wa ma batan, 'an biladina hadha khasatan wa 'an sa’iri biladil-muslimeen, bi rahmatika ya arhamar-rahimeen.
O Allah! Remove from us transgression, plagues, fornication, earthquakes and tests, and bad trials, both apparent and hidden…from this land of ours especially and from all lands of the Muslims, with Your Mercy, O Most Merciful!
اللهُمَّ يَا حَيُّ يَا قَيُّومُ بِرَحْمَتِكَ نَسْتَغِيثُ، أَصْلِحْ لَنَا شَأنَنَا كُلَّهُ، وَلا تَكِلْنَا إِلى أَنْفُسِنَا طَرْفَةَ عَيْنٍ ولا أَقَلَّ مِنْ ذَلِكَ
Allahumma Ya Hayyu Ya Qayyoom, bi rahmatika nastagheeth, aslih lana sha'nana kullahu wa la takilna ila anfusina tarfata aynin wa la aqalla min dhalik.
O Ever-Living! O Self-Subsisting! and Supporter of all! By Your Mercy we seek assistance, rectify for us all of our affairs and do not leave us to ourselves ever for the blink of an eye or less than that.
وَالحَمْدُ للهِ رَبِّ العَالِمِينَ ، وَصَلِّى اللهُمَّ وَسلَّمَ وَبَارَكَ عَلى نَبِيِّنَا مُحَمَّدٍ وَعَلى آلِهِ وَصَحْبِهِ والتَّابِعِينَ.
Walhamdulillahi rabbil-alameen, wa sallal-lahumma wa sallama wa baraka ala nabiyyina Muhammadin wa ala alihi wa sahbihi wat-tabi'een.
And all praises are to Allah Lord of the Worlds, and send Your prayers, peace and blessings on our Prophet Muhammad and on his family, companions and followers.
اللّـهُمَّ آميـــــــــــــــــــن اللّـهُمَّ آميـــــــــــــــــــن اللّـهُمَّ آميـــــــــــــــــــن
Allahumma Ameen. Allahumma Ameen. Allahumma Ameen.
O Allah! Please accept. O Allah! Please accept. O Allah! Please accept.
"Ad-Dunya Mal'oon!" [THIS WORLD IS CURSED!]
Ad-Dunya (This World)
The word dunya comes from danaa (root: dal nun wau). This root word has two meanings: 1) near and 2) lowly. This life has been called al-hayaat ad-dunya because it is the near (or "nearest"), the apparent and the current existence which we know and also because it is lesser, despicable and superficial in comparison to the real life as Allah called it - the life in the hereafter.
Ad-Dunya is the place which contains all the objects of desire of the human nafs in this life. It is in reality a mere transition or place of passing and has no permanence or lasting meaning. The life of this world and all that is in it is like the beautiful plants or crops which impress those who look on them but which shortly are turned into dead leaves and dust blown about by the wind. The Prophet (sas) said:
"Maa ad-dunya fiy al-aakhirati illa mithlu maa yaj'alu ahadukum usbu'ahu fiy al-yammi li yandhura bima yarja'"
"This life in comparison to the life hereafter is nothing except like that which one of you finds if he sticks his finger into the ocean and then sees what it brings back with it." Muslim
The life of this world has been made attractive and desireable to mankind. Unlike some other religions, Islam does not negate this love nor deem it as inherently evil. Rather, they are natural desires which Allah created in us and only need to be channeled into what Allah has allowed or encouraged and not allowed to control our actions and beliefs even in disobedience to Allah Most High. So this life is a temporary place of testing which determines our permenant condition in the life hereafter. The Prophet (sas) said:
"Inna ad-dunya hilwatun khadhratun. Wa inna Allah mustakhlifukum fiha fayandhuru kaifa ta'maluna. Fa ittaqqoo ad-dunya wa ittaqqoo an-nisaa."
"Surely, this dunya is sweet and fresh. And Allah makes you the heirs of it and then watches what you do. So beware of this dunya and beware regarding women." Muslim
A Muslim is not ordered to turn his back on the things of this life like the asceticism which the Christians and others innovated. Rather, a Muslim is commanded to seek, exploit and use these things in obedience to Allah and in furthering the cause of raising Allah's din in the land. Allah said:
{Thumma qaffainaa 'alaa aathaarihim bi rusulinaa wa qaffainaa bi 'isaa ibni maryama wa aatainaahu al-injeela wa ja'alnaa fiy quloobi alladhina ittaba'oohu ra'fatan wa rahmatan wa rahbaaniyyatan ibtada'ooha maa katabnaaha 'alaihim illa ibtighaa'a ridhwaani allahi famaa ra'auhaa haqqa ri'ayatiha fa aatainaa alladhina aamanoo minhum ajrahum wa katheerun minhum faasiqoon.}
{Then, we sent after them from our prophets and we sent Isa the son of Maryam and we gave him the Injeel and we placed in the hearts of those who followed him compassion and mercy but asceticism they innovated we did not prescribe it for them except for seeking the pleasure of Allah which they did not maintain as it should have been maintained. So we granted those who believed among them their reward and most of them are corrupt.} Al-Hadeed:26
So, a Muslim should SEEK his portion of the things of this life and seek to use them in obedience to Allah Most High. There is not order to turn away form such things simply because the are "wordly". Allah said:
{Wa abtaghi fimaa aataaka Allahu ad-daara al-aakhirata wa laa tansa naseebaka min ad-dunya wa ahsin kamaa ahsana Allahu ilaika. Wa laa tabghi al-fasaada fiy al-ardha inna Allahu laa yuhibbu al-mufsideen.}
{And seek with that which Allah has given you the realm of the hereafter and do not neglect your portion in this life. And be gracious as Allah has been gracious to you. And do not seek corruption in the land for Allah does not love the corrupters.} Al-Qasas:77
Nevertheless, as we indulge in the pleasures of this world - within the bounds established by Allah Most High - we must never forget its "lowliness" in comparison with the provision of Allah in the hereafter to those of His slaves who were obedient in this "place of passing". Allah said:
{Zuyyina li an-naasi hubbu ash-shahawaati min an-nisaa'i wa al-baneena wa al-qanaateeri al-muqantarati min adh-dhahabi wa al-fidha wa al-khaili al-musawwamati wa al-an'aami wa al-harthi dhaalika mataa'u al-hayaati ad-dunya wa allahu 'indahu husnu ma'aabi.}
{This has been made beautiful to people: the love of the desires such as women, sons, piled up heaps of gold and silver, branded horses, cattle and land. That is the provision of this life but with Allah is the best place of return.} Aal-'Imraan:14
Allah did not negate the love of mankind for these things nor is it regarded as an innate evil - the test is in what we do with them. Will we indulge in them in obedience to Allah and thereby transform mere pleasures and indulgences into worship of our Lord? Or will we become slaves to the objects of our desires turning all of our pleasures in this world into disobedience and rebellion against Allah Most High? The Prophet (sas) knew that this nation would experience plenty and riches after him and feared for us with regard to this test more than he feared for us from the test of poverty and deprivation. He (sas) said:
"Inna mimma akhaafu 'alaikum baadiy maa yuftahu 'alaikum min zahrati ad-dunya wa zeenatiha."
"One of the things from which I fear for you after me is that which will be given to you from the flowers of this dunya and its ornaments." Muslim & Bukhari
Allah also warned us in the Qur'an about allowing the dunya to lead us instead of us using it in obedience to Him:
{Yaa ayyuha an-naasu inna wa'da Allahi haqqun falaa taghurrannakum al-hayaati ad-dunya wa laa yaghurranakum bi Allahi al-gharoor.}
{O people! The promise of Allah is surely true so do not let the life of this world deceive you nor be deceived by the Deceiver.} Faatir:5
The meaning of not letting the life of this world deceive you is to not allow it to distract you and draw you away from worship and obedience to Allah Most High. The meaning of being deceived by the Deceiver (Shaitaan and his forces) is explained by Ash-Shawkaani like this:
"...let not Shaitaan deceive you with regard to Allah by saying to you: "Allah will overlook this for you and will forgive you because you are a good person or because of His great mercy upon you [and so you no longer hesitate in disobeying Allah]." Zubdatu At-Tafseer p. 572
So, when the desires of this world are tempting us to neglectd obedience to Allah and to follow them instead of Allah, we should remember the lowliness of this life and its insignificance in comparison to the life hereafter except as a testing ground where Allah watches what we do. Other than that, this life is composed mostly of foolishness and wasted time. Allah said:
{Wa maa hadhihi al-hayaati ad-dunya illa lahwun wa la'ibun wa inna ad-daara al-aakhirata layiya al-hayawaanu lau kaanoo ya'lamoon}
{And the life of this world is nothing but frivolity and playing while the realm of the hereafter is the true life if they only knew.} Al-'Ankabut:64
The only good that we can get out of this life is whatever obedience and worship we can offer to Allah while we are here. Of utmost importance in this regard is learning our din and teaching what we have learned to others along with calling others to enter into belief, submission and practice of Islam. The Prophet (sas) said:
"Alaa inna ad-dunya mal'oonarun mal'oonatun maa fiha illa dhikru Allahi ta'aala wa maa waalaahu wa 'aaliman wa muta'alliman."
"Verily this dunya is cursed and all that is in it is cursed except for the remembrance of Allah and all that goes with it and a scholar or a student." At-Tirmidhi
The most important thing to realize here is that the human heart by nature is a slave to something. If that slavery ('uboodiya) is not directed to Allah Most High, then it will surely find something else to which to attach itself. Also, all might and greatness is derived from Allah's might and greatness so whoever is not attached to Allah will be pathetic and weak even in this life and especially in the hereafter. Al-Imam Ash-Shafi'iy said:
"Man ghalabat 'alaihi shiddatu ash-shahwati li hubbi al-hayaati lazimathu al-'uboodiya li ahlihaa. Wa man radhiya bi al-qunoo'i zaala 'anhu al-khudhoo'"
"Whoever is overcome by the intensity of his desires because of love of this life will of necessity become enslaved to its people. And whoever is content by being satisfied
with little, will find the humiliation lifted from him."
little, will find the humiliation lifted from him."
The word dunya comes from danaa (root: dal nun wau). This root word has two meanings: 1) near and 2) lowly. This life has been called al-hayaat ad-dunya because it is the near (or "nearest"), the apparent and the current existence which we know and also because it is lesser, despicable and superficial in comparison to the real life as Allah called it - the life in the hereafter.
Ad-Dunya is the place which contains all the objects of desire of the human nafs in this life. It is in reality a mere transition or place of passing and has no permanence or lasting meaning. The life of this world and all that is in it is like the beautiful plants or crops which impress those who look on them but which shortly are turned into dead leaves and dust blown about by the wind. The Prophet (sas) said:
"Maa ad-dunya fiy al-aakhirati illa mithlu maa yaj'alu ahadukum usbu'ahu fiy al-yammi li yandhura bima yarja'"
"This life in comparison to the life hereafter is nothing except like that which one of you finds if he sticks his finger into the ocean and then sees what it brings back with it." Muslim
The life of this world has been made attractive and desireable to mankind. Unlike some other religions, Islam does not negate this love nor deem it as inherently evil. Rather, they are natural desires which Allah created in us and only need to be channeled into what Allah has allowed or encouraged and not allowed to control our actions and beliefs even in disobedience to Allah Most High. So this life is a temporary place of testing which determines our permenant condition in the life hereafter. The Prophet (sas) said:
"Inna ad-dunya hilwatun khadhratun. Wa inna Allah mustakhlifukum fiha fayandhuru kaifa ta'maluna. Fa ittaqqoo ad-dunya wa ittaqqoo an-nisaa."
"Surely, this dunya is sweet and fresh. And Allah makes you the heirs of it and then watches what you do. So beware of this dunya and beware regarding women." Muslim
A Muslim is not ordered to turn his back on the things of this life like the asceticism which the Christians and others innovated. Rather, a Muslim is commanded to seek, exploit and use these things in obedience to Allah and in furthering the cause of raising Allah's din in the land. Allah said:
{Thumma qaffainaa 'alaa aathaarihim bi rusulinaa wa qaffainaa bi 'isaa ibni maryama wa aatainaahu al-injeela wa ja'alnaa fiy quloobi alladhina ittaba'oohu ra'fatan wa rahmatan wa rahbaaniyyatan ibtada'ooha maa katabnaaha 'alaihim illa ibtighaa'a ridhwaani allahi famaa ra'auhaa haqqa ri'ayatiha fa aatainaa alladhina aamanoo minhum ajrahum wa katheerun minhum faasiqoon.}
{Then, we sent after them from our prophets and we sent Isa the son of Maryam and we gave him the Injeel and we placed in the hearts of those who followed him compassion and mercy but asceticism they innovated we did not prescribe it for them except for seeking the pleasure of Allah which they did not maintain as it should have been maintained. So we granted those who believed among them their reward and most of them are corrupt.} Al-Hadeed:26
So, a Muslim should SEEK his portion of the things of this life and seek to use them in obedience to Allah Most High. There is not order to turn away form such things simply because the are "wordly". Allah said:
{Wa abtaghi fimaa aataaka Allahu ad-daara al-aakhirata wa laa tansa naseebaka min ad-dunya wa ahsin kamaa ahsana Allahu ilaika. Wa laa tabghi al-fasaada fiy al-ardha inna Allahu laa yuhibbu al-mufsideen.}
{And seek with that which Allah has given you the realm of the hereafter and do not neglect your portion in this life. And be gracious as Allah has been gracious to you. And do not seek corruption in the land for Allah does not love the corrupters.} Al-Qasas:77
Nevertheless, as we indulge in the pleasures of this world - within the bounds established by Allah Most High - we must never forget its "lowliness" in comparison with the provision of Allah in the hereafter to those of His slaves who were obedient in this "place of passing". Allah said:
{Zuyyina li an-naasi hubbu ash-shahawaati min an-nisaa'i wa al-baneena wa al-qanaateeri al-muqantarati min adh-dhahabi wa al-fidha wa al-khaili al-musawwamati wa al-an'aami wa al-harthi dhaalika mataa'u al-hayaati ad-dunya wa allahu 'indahu husnu ma'aabi.}
{This has been made beautiful to people: the love of the desires such as women, sons, piled up heaps of gold and silver, branded horses, cattle and land. That is the provision of this life but with Allah is the best place of return.} Aal-'Imraan:14
Allah did not negate the love of mankind for these things nor is it regarded as an innate evil - the test is in what we do with them. Will we indulge in them in obedience to Allah and thereby transform mere pleasures and indulgences into worship of our Lord? Or will we become slaves to the objects of our desires turning all of our pleasures in this world into disobedience and rebellion against Allah Most High? The Prophet (sas) knew that this nation would experience plenty and riches after him and feared for us with regard to this test more than he feared for us from the test of poverty and deprivation. He (sas) said:
"Inna mimma akhaafu 'alaikum baadiy maa yuftahu 'alaikum min zahrati ad-dunya wa zeenatiha."
"One of the things from which I fear for you after me is that which will be given to you from the flowers of this dunya and its ornaments." Muslim & Bukhari
Allah also warned us in the Qur'an about allowing the dunya to lead us instead of us using it in obedience to Him:
{Yaa ayyuha an-naasu inna wa'da Allahi haqqun falaa taghurrannakum al-hayaati ad-dunya wa laa yaghurranakum bi Allahi al-gharoor.}
{O people! The promise of Allah is surely true so do not let the life of this world deceive you nor be deceived by the Deceiver.} Faatir:5
The meaning of not letting the life of this world deceive you is to not allow it to distract you and draw you away from worship and obedience to Allah Most High. The meaning of being deceived by the Deceiver (Shaitaan and his forces) is explained by Ash-Shawkaani like this:
"...let not Shaitaan deceive you with regard to Allah by saying to you: "Allah will overlook this for you and will forgive you because you are a good person or because of His great mercy upon you [and so you no longer hesitate in disobeying Allah]." Zubdatu At-Tafseer p. 572
So, when the desires of this world are tempting us to neglectd obedience to Allah and to follow them instead of Allah, we should remember the lowliness of this life and its insignificance in comparison to the life hereafter except as a testing ground where Allah watches what we do. Other than that, this life is composed mostly of foolishness and wasted time. Allah said:
{Wa maa hadhihi al-hayaati ad-dunya illa lahwun wa la'ibun wa inna ad-daara al-aakhirata layiya al-hayawaanu lau kaanoo ya'lamoon}
{And the life of this world is nothing but frivolity and playing while the realm of the hereafter is the true life if they only knew.} Al-'Ankabut:64
The only good that we can get out of this life is whatever obedience and worship we can offer to Allah while we are here. Of utmost importance in this regard is learning our din and teaching what we have learned to others along with calling others to enter into belief, submission and practice of Islam. The Prophet (sas) said:
"Alaa inna ad-dunya mal'oonarun mal'oonatun maa fiha illa dhikru Allahi ta'aala wa maa waalaahu wa 'aaliman wa muta'alliman."
"Verily this dunya is cursed and all that is in it is cursed except for the remembrance of Allah and all that goes with it and a scholar or a student." At-Tirmidhi
The most important thing to realize here is that the human heart by nature is a slave to something. If that slavery ('uboodiya) is not directed to Allah Most High, then it will surely find something else to which to attach itself. Also, all might and greatness is derived from Allah's might and greatness so whoever is not attached to Allah will be pathetic and weak even in this life and especially in the hereafter. Al-Imam Ash-Shafi'iy said:
"Man ghalabat 'alaihi shiddatu ash-shahwati li hubbi al-hayaati lazimathu al-'uboodiya li ahlihaa. Wa man radhiya bi al-qunoo'i zaala 'anhu al-khudhoo'"
"Whoever is overcome by the intensity of his desires because of love of this life will of necessity become enslaved to its people. And whoever is content by being satisfied
with little, will find the humiliation lifted from him."
little, will find the humiliation lifted from him."
DEATH!
Imam Thubayti Masjid Al Nabawi Madinah Al Munawarah,
By one of the Imams in Masjid Al Nabawi (the Prophet's Mosque)
Muharram 19, 1422 (April 13, 2001)
All praise is due to Allaah. I testify that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allaah and that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger saws.
I enjoin you and myself to fear Allaah, for it is the provision and safety in this world and the Last Day, “the day when neither wealth nor sons will avail, except him who brings to Allaah a clean heart.”
Allaah says,
“Everyone shall taste death. And only on the day of Resurrection shall you be paid your wages in full. And whoever is removed away from the fire and admitted to Paradise he indeed is successful. The life of this world is only the enjoyment of deception (a deceiving thing).” (Aal-‘Imraan 3: 175)
Such is the reality of death and what comes after it. Every one of us shall taste it whether poor or rich; healthy or sick, old or young; leader or led and none of us can escape it.
Allaah says,
“Wheresoever you may be, death will overtake you even if you are in a fortress built up strong and high.”(An-Nisaa 4: 78).
Death, as manifested in its character and effects is one of the mysteries that dazzles human intelligence because it has to do with the soul.
Allaah says,
“And they ask you (O Muhammad) concerning the spirit. Say: ‘The spirit is one of the things, the knowledge of which is only with my Lord. And of knowledge, you (mankind) have been given only a little.” (Al-Israa’ 17: 85)
One of it mysteries is that you see a youth who was full of health and energy suddenly falls dead without warning; thereby making that youthfulness and energy fade away, bringing all his senses to a complete standstill. That youth might even be an erudite scholar, an eloquent author, a skilled physician or brilliant inventor but it is absolutely out of the question that this quality should prevent death from overtaking him when his time is due.
Allaah says,
“When their term is reached, neither can they delay it nor can they advance it an hour (or a moment).” (Yoonus 10: 49).
‘Amr bin Abdullah used to mount the pulpit and say,
“Many a person who has seen the beginning of a day but would not see it’s end. And many a person who has expected morning but would not live to see it. If only you had known your appointed time and how it comes to pass, you would have detested nursing hope for worldly materials and its deception.”
While man enjoys his good health, playing and merrymaking, moving about in haughtiness, commanding and forbidding, death and illness suddenly attacks him, weakens his body, makes his limbs lifeless and then closes his record.
How near is death! Every day it becomes closer to us and no sooner has the book reached its appointed time that we belong among the dead. Then it becomes clear that life is really like flowers that bloom then afterwards wither or like a lamp that illuminates then afterwards dies down.
Let those who crave for this world and its pleasures ponder over these scattered graves all over the place and realize that the way to pleasures and lustful things, though decorated with beautiful roses inevitably leads to the present condition of those buried in these graves. Happiness is for him whom a messenger of death has opened his eyes to reality before he died, and whoever does not heed to the warning of the Qur’an and death, even if mountains were to thrust one another in front of him, he would not heed.
Dear brothers! What we witness in the cemeteries is a great lesson for us. The carrier of the bier to the cemetery today is taken back there tomorrow (as a dead person) and is left there only with his deeds either good or evil.
It is also very unfortunate that in these days we see some among those who escort the deceased laughing and playing or attending the funeral for showing off. This phenomenon is due to the heedlessness that has hardened people’s hearts and made them forget the Last Day and the frightening conditions of the grave. May Allaah awaken us from this heedlessness!
Brothers in faith! It is expected of him who knows that he will die, be buried, raised up on the day of Resurrection and enter Paradise or Hell to always remember death, prepare for it and reflect on it. He is in fact expected to regard himself among the dead. This is because all that is coming is near and when the angel of death comes neither your wealth nor your people can prevent him from taking your soul.
Where are those who achieved their aims and none were comparable to them in that? They collected but could not eat what they collected; they built mansions but could not live there! We on our part are still swimming in the pool of life as if we are meant to live here forever. Uways Al-Qarnee said,
“Remember death when you sleep and always think of it when you are awake.”
Fellow Muslims! It is a fact that this world and its tribulations appear insignificant in the eyes of him who always remembers death, for, he has lofty aims and strong resolutions; he is far from hypocrisy and always yearns for the everlasting bliss in the eternal Paradise.
Dear Brothers, Remembering death does not in any way make one’s life loathsome to him; forcing him to sit in his home and leave all means of sustenance. It is rather meant to deter him from committing sins and soften his hard heart. We remember death in order to have good preparation for it and for all that follows it by doing righteous deeds, obeying Allaah and increasing one’s efforts in all acts of worship.
Abdur-Rahman ibn Mahdee said,
“If Hammaad bin Salamah is told, ‘You will die tomorrow.’ He will not be able to increase anything in his deed, because his time is full of worship and remembrance of Allaah. ‘
How do we prepare for death? We prepare for death by shunning all abominable things and returning trusts to their rightful owners. We prepare for death by eliminating hatred and enmity from our hearts. We prepare for death by being good to the kith and kin.
Ibn al-Mubaarak said that Saalih Al-Mariy used to say,
“If the remembrance of death leaves me for an hour my heart becomes spoilt.”
It is also said that,
“Whoever frequently remembers death is honoured with three things: quick repentance, self-contentedness and energy in doing acts of worship; and whoever forgets death is punished with three things: delaying repentance, lack of contentedness and laziness in acts of worship.”
When will one who always follows his lustful desires and moves wantonly in his heedlessness remember death? When will one who has no regard for Allaah’s injunctions in Halaal or Haraam remember death? When will one who deserts the Qur’an, prays not Fajr in congregation, usurps people’s property unlawfully, takes usury, and commits fornication, remember death? How can one whose habit is slandering others and backbiting, whose heart is full of rancour and envy remember death?
Fellow Muslims! The Prophets, whenever death came to them were given a chance of choosing between remaining on this world and moving to that noble position. It is beyond doubt that every Prophet would select the everlasting bliss. This happened to Prophet Muhammad, as narrated by Al-Bukhari and Muslim on the authority of A’isha that she said,
“The Messenger of Allaah saws used to say while he was healthy, ‘No Prophet died until he saw his place in the Paradise, he was then given the choice between that place and remaining in this world.’ So when he was dying and his head was on my thigh, he fainted for a while then regained his consciousness. He stared at the ceiling, then said, ‘O Allaah! I choose the Highest Companionship.’ I then said, ‘He was not preferring us.’ It was then that I understood statement he used to tell us and it was true. She said, ‘The last word he uttered was: `Oh Allaah, I choose the Highest Companionship.`”
During death and its pain; in the grave and its darkness; and the Day of Resurrection and its horror people fall into two groups. A group shall remain firm; secured from fright and given glad tidings of Paradise while the other group shall suffer disgrace and ignominy.
Mabsoot
06-21-2006, 05:52 PM
Allaah says, “Verily, those who say, ‘Our Lord is Allaah (alone) and then stood straight, on them the angel will descend (at the time of their death saying,) ‘Fear not, nor grieve! But receive the glad tidings of Paradise which you have been promised.’” (Fussilat 41: 30) Angels shall descend upon the believers who are straight in heir religion during death in their graves and when they are resurrected in order to assure them of security and to allay their fears of the horror of the day of judgement. The angels will be telling them,
‘Do not fear about what you are going to meet and do not grieve over what you will be leaving behind of children, family and wealth.’ The angels will also say,
‘We have been your friends in the life of this world and (are so) in the hereafter.’ (Fussilat 41: 31) i.e. we will also be your friends in the hereafter, keeping your company in your graves and when the horn is blown, we will also assure you of security on the day of resurrection.
As for the unbelievers, when death comes to them and they start suffering its agonies, they will be subjected to ignominy and disgrace.
Allaah says, “And if you could but see when the wrongdoers are in the agonies of death, while the angels are stretching forth their hands saying, “Deliver your souls! This day you shall be recompensed with the torment of degradation because of what you used to utter against Allaah other than the truth. And you used to reject His ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) with disrespect.” (Al-An’aam 6: 93). Their sorrow shall increase so much so that they will wish to go back to this world.
Allaah say,
“Until when death comes to one of them, he says, ‘My Lord send me back.’” (Al-Mu’minoon 23: 99). Qataadah said while commenting on this verse,
“By Allaah, he would not wish by this statement to go back to his family and wealth nor to collect the good things of this world and satisfy his desires. He would rather wish to go back and do acts of obedience to Allaah. May Allaah bless him who does in this life what the disbelievers would wish to do when he sees the torment of Hell!’ Fellow Muslims! How is the need of a dying Muslim to Allaah’s success that his last words may be, “Laa ilaaha illa Allaah”. Mu’aadh bin Jabal narrated that the Prophet said,
“Whoever has ‘La ilaha illa Allaah’ as his last words will enter Paradise.” Ibn Al-Qayyim said,
“Dictating this word to a dying man is recommended because one who is dying experiences horrors that were unknown to him before, so it is feared that forgetfulness might overtake him since Satan is close to human beings. Moreover, uttering this statement while dying has a great effect in erasing ones misdeeds because it is a testimony of a slave of Allaah who believes in it and knows its meanings; for whose lustful desires are now dead and whose soul has become weak after its might. Then that testimony becomes his last utterance, it purifies him from all his sins because he meets with his Lord with a sincere testimony…” The righteous predecessors also recommended that a dying person be reminded of his good deeds, so that he can have positive thoughts about his Lord. Jaabir narrated: The Messenger of Allaah saws said,
“None of you should die except in the state of having positive thoughts about Allaah.” (Muslim). The Sunnah encourages talking about good deeds of a dead person and abstaining from talking about his misdeeds. Al-Bukhari reported on the authority of Aa’isha that she narrated,
‘The Prophet saws said, “Do not abuse the dead; for they have gone to meet the consequences of their deeds.”’ In Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Abul-Aswad said,
“I came to Medinah while there was an epidemic there. I sat with ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab. Then a funeral procession passed by and people praised its owner. ‘Umar said, “It becomes incumbent.” Then another funeral procession passed by and people also praised its owner, and ‘Umar said, “It’s incumbent;” then a third procession passed by and people spoke ill of its owner. ‘Umar also commented, “It becomes incumbent.” Then I said, “What is incumbent, O Leader of the Faithful? ‘Umar answered, “I said as the Prophet saws said, that, “Any dead Muslim whom four persons testify in his favour, Allaah will make him enter Paradise, We said, “And three persons?” He said, “And three persons.” We also said, “And two persons?” He said, “Yes, and two persons.” We did not thereafter ask him of one person.” It should be added that those whose testimony is regarded are the people of virtue and truthfulness. The testimony of an enemy shall not be considered.
It is also recommendable that the person who washes the dead should conceal whatever defects he may see on him. It is also a right of a Muslim on his fellow Muslims to escort his funeral, pray on him and supplicate for him. In Saheeh al-Bukhari, Aboo Hurayrah narrated that the Prophet saws said
“Whoever attends the funeral of a Muslim faithfully and hoping for the reward of Allaah and stays with him until Salaah is done on him and he is buried, he will go back home with two qeeraats, each is as big as the size of Mount Uhud; and whoever observes Salaah on him and then goes back before he is buried will get one qeeraat.”
As regards debts, the family of the deceased should hasten to pay it because a believer’s soul hangs on his debt until it is paid on his behalf. Debts of Allaah should also be promptly paid for, it is more deserving to be paid. Ibn Mas’ood said,
“A Believer has no rest until he meets Allaah.”
By one of the Imams in Masjid Al Nabawi (the Prophet's Mosque)
Muharram 19, 1422 (April 13, 2001)
All praise is due to Allaah. I testify that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allaah and that Muhammad is His servant and Messenger saws.
I enjoin you and myself to fear Allaah, for it is the provision and safety in this world and the Last Day, “the day when neither wealth nor sons will avail, except him who brings to Allaah a clean heart.”
Allaah says,
“Everyone shall taste death. And only on the day of Resurrection shall you be paid your wages in full. And whoever is removed away from the fire and admitted to Paradise he indeed is successful. The life of this world is only the enjoyment of deception (a deceiving thing).” (Aal-‘Imraan 3: 175)
Such is the reality of death and what comes after it. Every one of us shall taste it whether poor or rich; healthy or sick, old or young; leader or led and none of us can escape it.
Allaah says,
“Wheresoever you may be, death will overtake you even if you are in a fortress built up strong and high.”(An-Nisaa 4: 78).
Death, as manifested in its character and effects is one of the mysteries that dazzles human intelligence because it has to do with the soul.
Allaah says,
“And they ask you (O Muhammad) concerning the spirit. Say: ‘The spirit is one of the things, the knowledge of which is only with my Lord. And of knowledge, you (mankind) have been given only a little.” (Al-Israa’ 17: 85)
One of it mysteries is that you see a youth who was full of health and energy suddenly falls dead without warning; thereby making that youthfulness and energy fade away, bringing all his senses to a complete standstill. That youth might even be an erudite scholar, an eloquent author, a skilled physician or brilliant inventor but it is absolutely out of the question that this quality should prevent death from overtaking him when his time is due.
Allaah says,
“When their term is reached, neither can they delay it nor can they advance it an hour (or a moment).” (Yoonus 10: 49).
‘Amr bin Abdullah used to mount the pulpit and say,
“Many a person who has seen the beginning of a day but would not see it’s end. And many a person who has expected morning but would not live to see it. If only you had known your appointed time and how it comes to pass, you would have detested nursing hope for worldly materials and its deception.”
While man enjoys his good health, playing and merrymaking, moving about in haughtiness, commanding and forbidding, death and illness suddenly attacks him, weakens his body, makes his limbs lifeless and then closes his record.
How near is death! Every day it becomes closer to us and no sooner has the book reached its appointed time that we belong among the dead. Then it becomes clear that life is really like flowers that bloom then afterwards wither or like a lamp that illuminates then afterwards dies down.
Let those who crave for this world and its pleasures ponder over these scattered graves all over the place and realize that the way to pleasures and lustful things, though decorated with beautiful roses inevitably leads to the present condition of those buried in these graves. Happiness is for him whom a messenger of death has opened his eyes to reality before he died, and whoever does not heed to the warning of the Qur’an and death, even if mountains were to thrust one another in front of him, he would not heed.
Dear brothers! What we witness in the cemeteries is a great lesson for us. The carrier of the bier to the cemetery today is taken back there tomorrow (as a dead person) and is left there only with his deeds either good or evil.
It is also very unfortunate that in these days we see some among those who escort the deceased laughing and playing or attending the funeral for showing off. This phenomenon is due to the heedlessness that has hardened people’s hearts and made them forget the Last Day and the frightening conditions of the grave. May Allaah awaken us from this heedlessness!
Brothers in faith! It is expected of him who knows that he will die, be buried, raised up on the day of Resurrection and enter Paradise or Hell to always remember death, prepare for it and reflect on it. He is in fact expected to regard himself among the dead. This is because all that is coming is near and when the angel of death comes neither your wealth nor your people can prevent him from taking your soul.
Where are those who achieved their aims and none were comparable to them in that? They collected but could not eat what they collected; they built mansions but could not live there! We on our part are still swimming in the pool of life as if we are meant to live here forever. Uways Al-Qarnee said,
“Remember death when you sleep and always think of it when you are awake.”
Fellow Muslims! It is a fact that this world and its tribulations appear insignificant in the eyes of him who always remembers death, for, he has lofty aims and strong resolutions; he is far from hypocrisy and always yearns for the everlasting bliss in the eternal Paradise.
Dear Brothers, Remembering death does not in any way make one’s life loathsome to him; forcing him to sit in his home and leave all means of sustenance. It is rather meant to deter him from committing sins and soften his hard heart. We remember death in order to have good preparation for it and for all that follows it by doing righteous deeds, obeying Allaah and increasing one’s efforts in all acts of worship.
Abdur-Rahman ibn Mahdee said,
“If Hammaad bin Salamah is told, ‘You will die tomorrow.’ He will not be able to increase anything in his deed, because his time is full of worship and remembrance of Allaah. ‘
How do we prepare for death? We prepare for death by shunning all abominable things and returning trusts to their rightful owners. We prepare for death by eliminating hatred and enmity from our hearts. We prepare for death by being good to the kith and kin.
Ibn al-Mubaarak said that Saalih Al-Mariy used to say,
“If the remembrance of death leaves me for an hour my heart becomes spoilt.”
It is also said that,
“Whoever frequently remembers death is honoured with three things: quick repentance, self-contentedness and energy in doing acts of worship; and whoever forgets death is punished with three things: delaying repentance, lack of contentedness and laziness in acts of worship.”
When will one who always follows his lustful desires and moves wantonly in his heedlessness remember death? When will one who has no regard for Allaah’s injunctions in Halaal or Haraam remember death? When will one who deserts the Qur’an, prays not Fajr in congregation, usurps people’s property unlawfully, takes usury, and commits fornication, remember death? How can one whose habit is slandering others and backbiting, whose heart is full of rancour and envy remember death?
Fellow Muslims! The Prophets, whenever death came to them were given a chance of choosing between remaining on this world and moving to that noble position. It is beyond doubt that every Prophet would select the everlasting bliss. This happened to Prophet Muhammad, as narrated by Al-Bukhari and Muslim on the authority of A’isha that she said,
“The Messenger of Allaah saws used to say while he was healthy, ‘No Prophet died until he saw his place in the Paradise, he was then given the choice between that place and remaining in this world.’ So when he was dying and his head was on my thigh, he fainted for a while then regained his consciousness. He stared at the ceiling, then said, ‘O Allaah! I choose the Highest Companionship.’ I then said, ‘He was not preferring us.’ It was then that I understood statement he used to tell us and it was true. She said, ‘The last word he uttered was: `Oh Allaah, I choose the Highest Companionship.`”
During death and its pain; in the grave and its darkness; and the Day of Resurrection and its horror people fall into two groups. A group shall remain firm; secured from fright and given glad tidings of Paradise while the other group shall suffer disgrace and ignominy.
Mabsoot
06-21-2006, 05:52 PM
Allaah says, “Verily, those who say, ‘Our Lord is Allaah (alone) and then stood straight, on them the angel will descend (at the time of their death saying,) ‘Fear not, nor grieve! But receive the glad tidings of Paradise which you have been promised.’” (Fussilat 41: 30) Angels shall descend upon the believers who are straight in heir religion during death in their graves and when they are resurrected in order to assure them of security and to allay their fears of the horror of the day of judgement. The angels will be telling them,
‘Do not fear about what you are going to meet and do not grieve over what you will be leaving behind of children, family and wealth.’ The angels will also say,
‘We have been your friends in the life of this world and (are so) in the hereafter.’ (Fussilat 41: 31) i.e. we will also be your friends in the hereafter, keeping your company in your graves and when the horn is blown, we will also assure you of security on the day of resurrection.
As for the unbelievers, when death comes to them and they start suffering its agonies, they will be subjected to ignominy and disgrace.
Allaah says, “And if you could but see when the wrongdoers are in the agonies of death, while the angels are stretching forth their hands saying, “Deliver your souls! This day you shall be recompensed with the torment of degradation because of what you used to utter against Allaah other than the truth. And you used to reject His ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) with disrespect.” (Al-An’aam 6: 93). Their sorrow shall increase so much so that they will wish to go back to this world.
Allaah say,
“Until when death comes to one of them, he says, ‘My Lord send me back.’” (Al-Mu’minoon 23: 99). Qataadah said while commenting on this verse,
“By Allaah, he would not wish by this statement to go back to his family and wealth nor to collect the good things of this world and satisfy his desires. He would rather wish to go back and do acts of obedience to Allaah. May Allaah bless him who does in this life what the disbelievers would wish to do when he sees the torment of Hell!’ Fellow Muslims! How is the need of a dying Muslim to Allaah’s success that his last words may be, “Laa ilaaha illa Allaah”. Mu’aadh bin Jabal narrated that the Prophet said,
“Whoever has ‘La ilaha illa Allaah’ as his last words will enter Paradise.” Ibn Al-Qayyim said,
“Dictating this word to a dying man is recommended because one who is dying experiences horrors that were unknown to him before, so it is feared that forgetfulness might overtake him since Satan is close to human beings. Moreover, uttering this statement while dying has a great effect in erasing ones misdeeds because it is a testimony of a slave of Allaah who believes in it and knows its meanings; for whose lustful desires are now dead and whose soul has become weak after its might. Then that testimony becomes his last utterance, it purifies him from all his sins because he meets with his Lord with a sincere testimony…” The righteous predecessors also recommended that a dying person be reminded of his good deeds, so that he can have positive thoughts about his Lord. Jaabir narrated: The Messenger of Allaah saws said,
“None of you should die except in the state of having positive thoughts about Allaah.” (Muslim). The Sunnah encourages talking about good deeds of a dead person and abstaining from talking about his misdeeds. Al-Bukhari reported on the authority of Aa’isha that she narrated,
‘The Prophet saws said, “Do not abuse the dead; for they have gone to meet the consequences of their deeds.”’ In Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Abul-Aswad said,
“I came to Medinah while there was an epidemic there. I sat with ‘Umar ibn al-Khattab. Then a funeral procession passed by and people praised its owner. ‘Umar said, “It becomes incumbent.” Then another funeral procession passed by and people also praised its owner, and ‘Umar said, “It’s incumbent;” then a third procession passed by and people spoke ill of its owner. ‘Umar also commented, “It becomes incumbent.” Then I said, “What is incumbent, O Leader of the Faithful? ‘Umar answered, “I said as the Prophet saws said, that, “Any dead Muslim whom four persons testify in his favour, Allaah will make him enter Paradise, We said, “And three persons?” He said, “And three persons.” We also said, “And two persons?” He said, “Yes, and two persons.” We did not thereafter ask him of one person.” It should be added that those whose testimony is regarded are the people of virtue and truthfulness. The testimony of an enemy shall not be considered.
It is also recommendable that the person who washes the dead should conceal whatever defects he may see on him. It is also a right of a Muslim on his fellow Muslims to escort his funeral, pray on him and supplicate for him. In Saheeh al-Bukhari, Aboo Hurayrah narrated that the Prophet saws said
“Whoever attends the funeral of a Muslim faithfully and hoping for the reward of Allaah and stays with him until Salaah is done on him and he is buried, he will go back home with two qeeraats, each is as big as the size of Mount Uhud; and whoever observes Salaah on him and then goes back before he is buried will get one qeeraat.”
As regards debts, the family of the deceased should hasten to pay it because a believer’s soul hangs on his debt until it is paid on his behalf. Debts of Allaah should also be promptly paid for, it is more deserving to be paid. Ibn Mas’ood said,
“A Believer has no rest until he meets Allaah.”
"What happens to the one who leaves (apostates) Islam?"
ANSWER:
Jazakallah khair and may Allah reward you for your question regarding those who become "murtid" (apostate from Islam):
Your letter has caused me to finally sit down and prepare a complete written response this subject and it gives me the opportunity to also include this reply in our discussion boards on the Internet. I pray for you and ask Allah to reward you every time someone reads this and takes benefit from it, ameen. Please write back and let me know if the following research and presentation is of any benefit for you and for those whom you are sharing about Islam.
You probably are aware I was once a Christian music minister and preacher, coming to Islam while trying to "convert" a Muslim from Egypt to Christianity. (full story on our website at: www.YusufEstes.com
As you must imagine, I had some very serious concerns over this very same question, before accepting to leave Christianity for Islam. After all, I didn't think anyone would kill me for doing so. It was only in the last few years I learned there is killing going on in some countries over the issue of family members and others converting to other religions. Yes! - even in these days! Egypt has cases of Christians killing someone for going to Islam, as well as the other way around. This is also true, according to the newspapers about someone in Israel going to Islam last year. And there is even a law in Chanai, India forbidden the public declaration of faith for anyone converting to Islam. I know that to be a fact, as I was there at the time of the tsunami and a man from Texas wanted to convert from Christianity to Islam while Dr. Zakir Naik's program was going on (the man's name was David) and the authorities would not allow it in public. They told me that there had been a series of murders as a result of a man converting from Hindu to Islam in the area and they just didn't want any more killings or civil riots. (I think "civil riots" is an oxymoron?)
I had discussed this issue of apostasy in great depth many times, even before making up my mind to leave almost 50 years of Christianity to become a Muslim. After all I thought, what if I would like to change my mind and go back to being a Christian or make some other choice along the way; what would the Muslims do to me then? So you are most correct to ask this and we will try our best to provide the answer from historical evidences of Islam.
But before we begin, I would like to observe your particular question because it is not a general question. It deals with a specific occurrence in a particular place in certain circumstances, which I would like to come back to in a brief moment.
Also there is something not correct in the question. The man did not recently convert. He was already a Christian even before the Taliban. I do not know all of the circumstances, but I have been informed by some of the actual people from Afghanistan the man in question (I think his name is Abdur Rahman or something similar) had been Christian for a long number of years and this incident was really based on something else, but what, I don't know.
The story presented in the news media these days is one of about an Afghani man who has been a Christian for over 16 years. This means he was a Christian throughout the entire time the Taliban were running the country there and obviously no one did anything to him throughout this time. Only now, with the western backed regime in place, are we hearing about this "problem." It does make a person wonder what is really going on there.
Nevertheless, we will discuss the subject of how Islam views the one who leaves Islam, if God Wills (inshallah).
To begin, there is not a hard and fast rule concerning this subject because there are perhaps as many reasons why people do what they do as there are people in the world. The answer must be based on each individual situation, as it depends largely on the person, his or her knowledge, intention and understanding as well as the conditions surrounding the circumstances.
Before we can begin, to be fair to those not familiar with Islamic terms and words, we must start by explaining to both Muslims and the non-Muslims alike, who might be wondering about the answer to such a question, what Islam is really all about and set the stage for them to better understand the actual ramifications of entering and/or leaving Islam.
First, they have to understand what all of the relevant Arabic words and terms actually mean. You should explain exactly what "ISLAM" means and what is: Tawhid (monotheism); Ibadah (worship); Shar'iah (God's Commandments in Islamic Law); Fatwah (Islamic Judge's findings in Law and their subsequent rulings); Hudud (punishment); Murtid (apostasy). It is important for anyone desiring to understand Islam's position on any subject, especially in such matters as this, to gain a firm grip on the importance of words being used and their meanings regarding the issues at hand.
The first word to explain is:
"Allah" - believe it or not, most people do not know the word "God" is a deficiency in the English language. There is no word for the "God" of Adam, Abraham, Moses, David, Solomon and Jesus, (peace be upon them all) in English. The word "god" is used both for the pagans and the monotheists. In order to distinguish between the two, the first letter "g" in the word is capitalized when written. However, this approach does help very much when beginning a sentence with the word as all sentences begin with capital letters. Nor does it provide for any type of distinction when speaking as there would be no way to differentiate between "god" and "God. "Allah" is the appropriate word for the "God" of Jews, Christians and Muslims alike. There is a word in Arabic for "god" (note the small 'g'); it is "elah." The word "Allah" in Arabic comes from the same root, but it can not be made plural (as in: 'gods') nor can the word imply actual gender (as in: 'goddess'). Allah is the perfect word to describe the One God Almighty of the universe and it has been the word used by the writers of the Bible for both the Jews and Christians in the Arabic language for centuries. www.GodAllah.com
"ISLAM" means; surrender, submission, obedience, sincerity and peace between God and His Creatures (us); to do "God's Will on earth, as it is in Heaven" www.WhatsIslam.com
"Muslim" comes from the same root as "Islam" and it means: the one who believes in Allah and is complying with the Shari'ah of Islam) www.IslamTomorrow.com/word
Jazakallah khair and may Allah reward you for your question regarding those who become "murtid" (apostate from Islam):
Your letter has caused me to finally sit down and prepare a complete written response this subject and it gives me the opportunity to also include this reply in our discussion boards on the Internet. I pray for you and ask Allah to reward you every time someone reads this and takes benefit from it, ameen. Please write back and let me know if the following research and presentation is of any benefit for you and for those whom you are sharing about Islam.
You probably are aware I was once a Christian music minister and preacher, coming to Islam while trying to "convert" a Muslim from Egypt to Christianity. (full story on our website at: www.YusufEstes.com
As you must imagine, I had some very serious concerns over this very same question, before accepting to leave Christianity for Islam. After all, I didn't think anyone would kill me for doing so. It was only in the last few years I learned there is killing going on in some countries over the issue of family members and others converting to other religions. Yes! - even in these days! Egypt has cases of Christians killing someone for going to Islam, as well as the other way around. This is also true, according to the newspapers about someone in Israel going to Islam last year. And there is even a law in Chanai, India forbidden the public declaration of faith for anyone converting to Islam. I know that to be a fact, as I was there at the time of the tsunami and a man from Texas wanted to convert from Christianity to Islam while Dr. Zakir Naik's program was going on (the man's name was David) and the authorities would not allow it in public. They told me that there had been a series of murders as a result of a man converting from Hindu to Islam in the area and they just didn't want any more killings or civil riots. (I think "civil riots" is an oxymoron?)
I had discussed this issue of apostasy in great depth many times, even before making up my mind to leave almost 50 years of Christianity to become a Muslim. After all I thought, what if I would like to change my mind and go back to being a Christian or make some other choice along the way; what would the Muslims do to me then? So you are most correct to ask this and we will try our best to provide the answer from historical evidences of Islam.
But before we begin, I would like to observe your particular question because it is not a general question. It deals with a specific occurrence in a particular place in certain circumstances, which I would like to come back to in a brief moment.
Also there is something not correct in the question. The man did not recently convert. He was already a Christian even before the Taliban. I do not know all of the circumstances, but I have been informed by some of the actual people from Afghanistan the man in question (I think his name is Abdur Rahman or something similar) had been Christian for a long number of years and this incident was really based on something else, but what, I don't know.
The story presented in the news media these days is one of about an Afghani man who has been a Christian for over 16 years. This means he was a Christian throughout the entire time the Taliban were running the country there and obviously no one did anything to him throughout this time. Only now, with the western backed regime in place, are we hearing about this "problem." It does make a person wonder what is really going on there.
Nevertheless, we will discuss the subject of how Islam views the one who leaves Islam, if God Wills (inshallah).
To begin, there is not a hard and fast rule concerning this subject because there are perhaps as many reasons why people do what they do as there are people in the world. The answer must be based on each individual situation, as it depends largely on the person, his or her knowledge, intention and understanding as well as the conditions surrounding the circumstances.
Before we can begin, to be fair to those not familiar with Islamic terms and words, we must start by explaining to both Muslims and the non-Muslims alike, who might be wondering about the answer to such a question, what Islam is really all about and set the stage for them to better understand the actual ramifications of entering and/or leaving Islam.
First, they have to understand what all of the relevant Arabic words and terms actually mean. You should explain exactly what "ISLAM" means and what is: Tawhid (monotheism); Ibadah (worship); Shar'iah (God's Commandments in Islamic Law); Fatwah (Islamic Judge's findings in Law and their subsequent rulings); Hudud (punishment); Murtid (apostasy). It is important for anyone desiring to understand Islam's position on any subject, especially in such matters as this, to gain a firm grip on the importance of words being used and their meanings regarding the issues at hand.
The first word to explain is:
"Allah" - believe it or not, most people do not know the word "God" is a deficiency in the English language. There is no word for the "God" of Adam, Abraham, Moses, David, Solomon and Jesus, (peace be upon them all) in English. The word "god" is used both for the pagans and the monotheists. In order to distinguish between the two, the first letter "g" in the word is capitalized when written. However, this approach does help very much when beginning a sentence with the word as all sentences begin with capital letters. Nor does it provide for any type of distinction when speaking as there would be no way to differentiate between "god" and "God. "Allah" is the appropriate word for the "God" of Jews, Christians and Muslims alike. There is a word in Arabic for "god" (note the small 'g'); it is "elah." The word "Allah" in Arabic comes from the same root, but it can not be made plural (as in: 'gods') nor can the word imply actual gender (as in: 'goddess'). Allah is the perfect word to describe the One God Almighty of the universe and it has been the word used by the writers of the Bible for both the Jews and Christians in the Arabic language for centuries. www.GodAllah.com
"ISLAM" means; surrender, submission, obedience, sincerity and peace between God and His Creatures (us); to do "God's Will on earth, as it is in Heaven" www.WhatsIslam.com
"Muslim" comes from the same root as "Islam" and it means: the one who believes in Allah and is complying with the Shari'ah of Islam) www.IslamTomorrow.com/word
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Tawhid (monotheism) in Islam is - to believe in the One God of Adam, Abraham, Moses and Jesus and Muhammad, peace be upon them all, and to obey the Commandments of Allah according to His Will. It is to worship Allah, Alone without any partners (see: First Commandment; Exodus, chapter 20) and to obey the prophets of Allah, worshiping Allah according to the way they did, and to be dutiful to the parents. (examples: Fifth Commandment; Exodus, chapter 20, Duet., chapter 5) feed the poor and care for the orphan, to always tell the truth, encourage good and forbid evil. Basically, it is to believe as mentioned by the New Testament (Mark: chapter 12:29) "Know O Israel, the Lord your God is One Lord; and you have to worship Him with all your heart and all your mind and all your strength. And I give you another Commandment like unto it, to love your neighbor as yourself."
Ibadah (worship) only for Allah and not to anything in or of His Creation. All praise, worship, thanksgiving and supplications are for Him only.
Quran (Recitation and actual Speech of Allah recorded in memory of Muhammad, peace be upon him, from the Angel Jibreel [Gabriel]. It was then passed on from mouth to ear and recorded in manuscripts perserved until now. Quran is memorized by over 10,000,000 Muslims living on the earth today - 90% of whom are not even Arab, by the way. Quran is the Final Revelation and Last Testament from Allah to all mankind, as such it is considered by Muslims as the foundation for everything in the Shari'ah.
Shar'iah (God's Commandments in Islamic Law) The Commandments of Allah in the Quran and the Sunnah (teachings of Muhammad, peace be upon him, as understood by the first generation of companions to Muhammad, peace be upon him). The shar'iah only applies to Muslims and those who live under the protection of the Islamic State (khalifate).
Fatwah Findings in Law and their subsequent rulings, by jurists and Islamic scholars who have memorized the Quran and are experts in the classical Arabic language and have correct knowledge of the meaning of the revelation of Quran and the hadeeth.
Hadeeth Authentically recorded and preserved testimonies of eyewitnesses to accounts taking place concerning Muhammad, peace be upon him, and the revelation of the Quran.
Hudud (punishment) The punishments to be initiated by those in authority according to Shar'iah as ordered according to appropriate fatawah (plural of fatwah).
Murtid (apostasy) a Muslim who makes the choice to leave Islam (submission to God's Will).
Next let them know, no one is ever forced or coerced into accepting Islam. This always was and always will be a matter of choice left up to the individual. Muslims are not ordered to "convert" people to Islam. Rather, they are ordered to deliver the message of Islam to others through their own righteous living as an example and in respectful "reminding" as taught in the Quran.
Islam (willful submission) to Allah's Shar'iah (God's Commandments in Islamic Law) and is the very balance needed for all humans for all times and in all places (according the teachings of Islam). The Paradise is reserved for only those who submit themeselves to the Commandments and Judgments of Almighty Allah.
There is never to be forced conversion to Islam (if it were forced, then the word "Islam" would not really apply anyway), and it is forbidden according to the Quran, in the second chapter, verse 256: "Let there be no complusion in the religioin ("deen": actually means way of life as opposed to "religion"). From this we understand no one can be made to believe anything by force. Rather, it must be by their own decision.
Now be sure they understand the difference between "Islam" and "Muslims", meaning: "Islam" is perfect, but we as humans (Muslims) are not. Therefore, we can and do make mistakes. This lets us know immediately if anyone is calling for something in the name of "Islam" or the "Shar'iah", this should be viewed in the evidence of the Shar'iah itself and not just what some jurist or scholar may conclude.
Finally, judges and scholars over the centuries have held different opinions and given various rulings based on all of the above. No one can make a blanket statement and say the same rule applies to all people in all situations.
Let us review some of the evidences starting at the time of our prophet, peace be upon him.
Even during the time of our prophet, peace be upon him, there were some who "left Islam" and then they were allowed to come back if they wanted to or stay away if they so desired. One example is from the Muslims who migrated in the first migration to Ethiopia and one of them left Islam, became a Christian (the people of Abyssinia were Christians at that time) and then even told people there he was an "author" of the Quran. Of course such actions are most despicable and worthy of some kind of reprimand, especially considering the extent of the lies against the Quran and the prophet, peace be upon him. Yet, nothing was done to this man by the Muslims. His wife, Zainab, could not tolerate his lies and his turning his back against the truth of Islam and she returned back to the Muslims in Arabia. After the man died the Christians attempted to bury him, but the next day they found his body out of the grave and laying on the ground. Considering the Muslims must have done this act, they moved him to another area and buried him there. Again, the next day they found his body out of the grave and on top of the ground. So, they took him far from there and made another grave and buried him in it. But again, the next day his body was out of the grave and laying on the ground. At this point they decided the ground would not accept his body and they left it for the wild animals. We learn from this example Allah will be the One to finally deal with these people and He may even do so in this world as well as on the Day of Judgment.
Other examples include those who entered Islam in the presence of our beloved prophet, peace be upon him, yet when they were returned back to their people (during an agreement between the pagans and Muhammad, peace be upon him) some of them reverted back to their old pagan religion. Some of them did come back to Islam again later on after Islam came to be the governing state. In this case we observe what can happen in the case of the one who is in Islam and then for whatever reason decides not to stay.
Yet another example that occurred at the time of our blessed prophet, peace be upon him, was that of some who pretended they wanted to be Muslims only to take advantage of the believers, gain some worldly benefits and then abused and slaughtered an entire group of shepherds that memorized the entire Quran, who were caring for them. They killed them in cold blood and took everything for themselves. The prophet, peace be upon him, was very disturbed over this and ordered them to be severely punished and left to die without any food or water. From this example we learn how to deal with traitors and terrorists who have no intention of doing anything except evil and spreading fitnah (evil and terror) throughout the land.
Over the centuries since the inception of Islam, we can find cases of people leaving Islam and what was their example and what the pervailing jurists decided in their particular situation. Most all of these were not punished except in the cases of treason, other acts of viloence or for propagating corruption, dissention and promoting evil along with their apostasy. Those who were found to be causing sedition or of being enemy spies during times of war or advocating the overthrow of Islamic government could understandably be courtmartialed and executed.
Now let us breifly compare the treatment of conversion and apostasy with other civilizations and societies over the centuries.
The Roman civilization would not tolerate someone who accepted the benefits of citizenship and the turned against the government. These people were made short work of as entertainment for the people, while gladiators tortured and killed them for public sport. (see: Encyclopedia Britanitca; Rome).
It may benefit us to take into consideration Judaism and Christianity to better understand the difference between what is being taught as the religion and what some people do. The Book of Genesis in the Torah (Old Testament) tells of an incident referred to by Scholars such as Rabbi Allison Bergman Vann, as the "Rape of Dinah." (note#3 & #4 below)
It is easy to conclude the offer of circumcizing and coming to their religion was only a trick to defeat the men while they were in such pain and suffering (keep in mind, in those days there were no clinics or even sterile conditions for such operations).
Another reference to "conversion and apostasy" regarding Jews during the years after Jesus, peace be upon him, occurred in the south of Arabia in Yemen. Yusuf Dhu Nawas, a Jewish leader in Yemen, attacked the Christians of Najran ordering them to embrace Judaism or be burned in a pit of fire. Estimates put the number of those killed between 20,000 and 40,000.
(note #5 below)
The Catholic Church at one time forced people to enter into their religion at the point of the sword and with torture chambers (see: Crusades, 1095 to 1200 A.D.; and Inquisition, 1492 to 1520 A.D.) Those who wished to remain or change to Islam or Judaism or even another form of Christianity were put to the most vile of tortures and even executed. However, this cannot be said to in any way, represent the teachings of Jesus or the New Testament.
Now let us consider the realities of balance in Islam in light of today's world:
There is no existing Islamic state with a khilafah. This means the hudud (punishment according to Islam) of the Shar'iah (Islamic Law) cannot be appropritely applied. Additionally, anyone not being a citizen living in an Islamic state could hardly be tried and convicted by the state in a proper manner.
(note #6 below)
Some would claim the Protestants are not the same as the Catholics. Read what the first real "protestant," Martin Lurther, had to say about this (taken from Jamal Udeen Zaraboza's article).
Let us consider the follow example for comparison:
> There is a person living in Russia decides he wants to become a citizen of the United States and goes to the United States Embassy and begins the procedure of immagration and naturalization. Later on he changes his mind, doesn't like things the US is doing and decides to give it up.
> Now he cancels his immagration process. This would could lessen his chances of getting citizenship in the future but would not bring about retaliation against him from the US.
> Then, if he begins to publicly speak out against the US policy and puts up websites, sends out emails makes speeches calling for acts of violence against America, he definitely is going to have a problem ever getting a chance a citizenship later if he should change his mind and like to become an American.
> Next, he goes so far as to actually recruit people and train them at some paintball place while telling them they are preparing to attack America.
<>Question: Is he going to be listed as a terrorist and enemy to America?
<> What about those who joined him for paintball practice and listened to his talks? Would they be listed along with him, as terrorists?
<> Would they be tortured (in some other country) and then spend the rest of their lives in prison?
! > After all, they are enemies to the state and should be treated as such. Right?
To conclude, Islam comes from Allah, the actual Creator and Sustainer of the universe. Islam provides for all situations and dictates what are the rights and limitations. This all seeks to provide a safe enviornment for all people to learn the correct message of Almighty Allah and how to live as upright citizens in a place of pleace and mutual cooperation for all humans, regardless of their beliefs.
If a person wants to accept this belief and way of life, then they should be free to do so. If another person would reject this even though the evidence is clearly in favor of Islam, they are free to make this choice but would live in the society still receiving the benefits and services available, such as food, shelter, clothing, protection and charity. However, they would pay a larger tax on their wealth due to their not being conscripted to serve in the military and so on.
Conditions are really what bring about the different rulings on dealing with those who enter Islam and then leave it, with the clear intention of bringing about descention and unrest amongst the people. Also, those who seek to convert people away from Islam into other faiths or to destroy the Islamic government would naturally be considered as traitors and then dealt with as such.
All knowledge is with Allah and for any mistakes I seek Allah's forgiveness and beg the pardon of anyone whom I may have offended in this writing.
By SARAH
Tawhid (monotheism) in Islam is - to believe in the One God of Adam, Abraham, Moses and Jesus and Muhammad, peace be upon them all, and to obey the Commandments of Allah according to His Will. It is to worship Allah, Alone without any partners (see: First Commandment; Exodus, chapter 20) and to obey the prophets of Allah, worshiping Allah according to the way they did, and to be dutiful to the parents. (examples: Fifth Commandment; Exodus, chapter 20, Duet., chapter 5) feed the poor and care for the orphan, to always tell the truth, encourage good and forbid evil. Basically, it is to believe as mentioned by the New Testament (Mark: chapter 12:29) "Know O Israel, the Lord your God is One Lord; and you have to worship Him with all your heart and all your mind and all your strength. And I give you another Commandment like unto it, to love your neighbor as yourself."
Ibadah (worship) only for Allah and not to anything in or of His Creation. All praise, worship, thanksgiving and supplications are for Him only.
Quran (Recitation and actual Speech of Allah recorded in memory of Muhammad, peace be upon him, from the Angel Jibreel [Gabriel]. It was then passed on from mouth to ear and recorded in manuscripts perserved until now. Quran is memorized by over 10,000,000 Muslims living on the earth today - 90% of whom are not even Arab, by the way. Quran is the Final Revelation and Last Testament from Allah to all mankind, as such it is considered by Muslims as the foundation for everything in the Shari'ah.
Shar'iah (God's Commandments in Islamic Law) The Commandments of Allah in the Quran and the Sunnah (teachings of Muhammad, peace be upon him, as understood by the first generation of companions to Muhammad, peace be upon him). The shar'iah only applies to Muslims and those who live under the protection of the Islamic State (khalifate).
Fatwah Findings in Law and their subsequent rulings, by jurists and Islamic scholars who have memorized the Quran and are experts in the classical Arabic language and have correct knowledge of the meaning of the revelation of Quran and the hadeeth.
Hadeeth Authentically recorded and preserved testimonies of eyewitnesses to accounts taking place concerning Muhammad, peace be upon him, and the revelation of the Quran.
Hudud (punishment) The punishments to be initiated by those in authority according to Shar'iah as ordered according to appropriate fatawah (plural of fatwah).
Murtid (apostasy) a Muslim who makes the choice to leave Islam (submission to God's Will).
Next let them know, no one is ever forced or coerced into accepting Islam. This always was and always will be a matter of choice left up to the individual. Muslims are not ordered to "convert" people to Islam. Rather, they are ordered to deliver the message of Islam to others through their own righteous living as an example and in respectful "reminding" as taught in the Quran.
Islam (willful submission) to Allah's Shar'iah (God's Commandments in Islamic Law) and is the very balance needed for all humans for all times and in all places (according the teachings of Islam). The Paradise is reserved for only those who submit themeselves to the Commandments and Judgments of Almighty Allah.
There is never to be forced conversion to Islam (if it were forced, then the word "Islam" would not really apply anyway), and it is forbidden according to the Quran, in the second chapter, verse 256: "Let there be no complusion in the religioin ("deen": actually means way of life as opposed to "religion"). From this we understand no one can be made to believe anything by force. Rather, it must be by their own decision.
Now be sure they understand the difference between "Islam" and "Muslims", meaning: "Islam" is perfect, but we as humans (Muslims) are not. Therefore, we can and do make mistakes. This lets us know immediately if anyone is calling for something in the name of "Islam" or the "Shar'iah", this should be viewed in the evidence of the Shar'iah itself and not just what some jurist or scholar may conclude.
Finally, judges and scholars over the centuries have held different opinions and given various rulings based on all of the above. No one can make a blanket statement and say the same rule applies to all people in all situations.
Let us review some of the evidences starting at the time of our prophet, peace be upon him.
Even during the time of our prophet, peace be upon him, there were some who "left Islam" and then they were allowed to come back if they wanted to or stay away if they so desired. One example is from the Muslims who migrated in the first migration to Ethiopia and one of them left Islam, became a Christian (the people of Abyssinia were Christians at that time) and then even told people there he was an "author" of the Quran. Of course such actions are most despicable and worthy of some kind of reprimand, especially considering the extent of the lies against the Quran and the prophet, peace be upon him. Yet, nothing was done to this man by the Muslims. His wife, Zainab, could not tolerate his lies and his turning his back against the truth of Islam and she returned back to the Muslims in Arabia. After the man died the Christians attempted to bury him, but the next day they found his body out of the grave and laying on the ground. Considering the Muslims must have done this act, they moved him to another area and buried him there. Again, the next day they found his body out of the grave and on top of the ground. So, they took him far from there and made another grave and buried him in it. But again, the next day his body was out of the grave and laying on the ground. At this point they decided the ground would not accept his body and they left it for the wild animals. We learn from this example Allah will be the One to finally deal with these people and He may even do so in this world as well as on the Day of Judgment.
Other examples include those who entered Islam in the presence of our beloved prophet, peace be upon him, yet when they were returned back to their people (during an agreement between the pagans and Muhammad, peace be upon him) some of them reverted back to their old pagan religion. Some of them did come back to Islam again later on after Islam came to be the governing state. In this case we observe what can happen in the case of the one who is in Islam and then for whatever reason decides not to stay.
Yet another example that occurred at the time of our blessed prophet, peace be upon him, was that of some who pretended they wanted to be Muslims only to take advantage of the believers, gain some worldly benefits and then abused and slaughtered an entire group of shepherds that memorized the entire Quran, who were caring for them. They killed them in cold blood and took everything for themselves. The prophet, peace be upon him, was very disturbed over this and ordered them to be severely punished and left to die without any food or water. From this example we learn how to deal with traitors and terrorists who have no intention of doing anything except evil and spreading fitnah (evil and terror) throughout the land.
Over the centuries since the inception of Islam, we can find cases of people leaving Islam and what was their example and what the pervailing jurists decided in their particular situation. Most all of these were not punished except in the cases of treason, other acts of viloence or for propagating corruption, dissention and promoting evil along with their apostasy. Those who were found to be causing sedition or of being enemy spies during times of war or advocating the overthrow of Islamic government could understandably be courtmartialed and executed.
Now let us breifly compare the treatment of conversion and apostasy with other civilizations and societies over the centuries.
The Roman civilization would not tolerate someone who accepted the benefits of citizenship and the turned against the government. These people were made short work of as entertainment for the people, while gladiators tortured and killed them for public sport. (see: Encyclopedia Britanitca; Rome).
It may benefit us to take into consideration Judaism and Christianity to better understand the difference between what is being taught as the religion and what some people do. The Book of Genesis in the Torah (Old Testament) tells of an incident referred to by Scholars such as Rabbi Allison Bergman Vann, as the "Rape of Dinah." (note#3 & #4 below)
It is easy to conclude the offer of circumcizing and coming to their religion was only a trick to defeat the men while they were in such pain and suffering (keep in mind, in those days there were no clinics or even sterile conditions for such operations).
Another reference to "conversion and apostasy" regarding Jews during the years after Jesus, peace be upon him, occurred in the south of Arabia in Yemen. Yusuf Dhu Nawas, a Jewish leader in Yemen, attacked the Christians of Najran ordering them to embrace Judaism or be burned in a pit of fire. Estimates put the number of those killed between 20,000 and 40,000.
(note #5 below)
The Catholic Church at one time forced people to enter into their religion at the point of the sword and with torture chambers (see: Crusades, 1095 to 1200 A.D.; and Inquisition, 1492 to 1520 A.D.) Those who wished to remain or change to Islam or Judaism or even another form of Christianity were put to the most vile of tortures and even executed. However, this cannot be said to in any way, represent the teachings of Jesus or the New Testament.
Now let us consider the realities of balance in Islam in light of today's world:
There is no existing Islamic state with a khilafah. This means the hudud (punishment according to Islam) of the Shar'iah (Islamic Law) cannot be appropritely applied. Additionally, anyone not being a citizen living in an Islamic state could hardly be tried and convicted by the state in a proper manner.
(note #6 below)
Some would claim the Protestants are not the same as the Catholics. Read what the first real "protestant," Martin Lurther, had to say about this (taken from Jamal Udeen Zaraboza's article).
Let us consider the follow example for comparison:
> There is a person living in Russia decides he wants to become a citizen of the United States and goes to the United States Embassy and begins the procedure of immagration and naturalization. Later on he changes his mind, doesn't like things the US is doing and decides to give it up.
> Now he cancels his immagration process. This would could lessen his chances of getting citizenship in the future but would not bring about retaliation against him from the US.
> Then, if he begins to publicly speak out against the US policy and puts up websites, sends out emails makes speeches calling for acts of violence against America, he definitely is going to have a problem ever getting a chance a citizenship later if he should change his mind and like to become an American.
> Next, he goes so far as to actually recruit people and train them at some paintball place while telling them they are preparing to attack America.
<>Question: Is he going to be listed as a terrorist and enemy to America?
<> What about those who joined him for paintball practice and listened to his talks? Would they be listed along with him, as terrorists?
<> Would they be tortured (in some other country) and then spend the rest of their lives in prison?
! > After all, they are enemies to the state and should be treated as such. Right?
To conclude, Islam comes from Allah, the actual Creator and Sustainer of the universe. Islam provides for all situations and dictates what are the rights and limitations. This all seeks to provide a safe enviornment for all people to learn the correct message of Almighty Allah and how to live as upright citizens in a place of pleace and mutual cooperation for all humans, regardless of their beliefs.
If a person wants to accept this belief and way of life, then they should be free to do so. If another person would reject this even though the evidence is clearly in favor of Islam, they are free to make this choice but would live in the society still receiving the benefits and services available, such as food, shelter, clothing, protection and charity. However, they would pay a larger tax on their wealth due to their not being conscripted to serve in the military and so on.
Conditions are really what bring about the different rulings on dealing with those who enter Islam and then leave it, with the clear intention of bringing about descention and unrest amongst the people. Also, those who seek to convert people away from Islam into other faiths or to destroy the Islamic government would naturally be considered as traitors and then dealt with as such.
All knowledge is with Allah and for any mistakes I seek Allah's forgiveness and beg the pardon of anyone whom I may have offended in this writing.
By SARAH
Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas (Radhiyallahu Anhu)
We are now in a small town in a narrow valley. There is no vegetation, no livestock, no gardens, no rivers. Desert after desert separates the town from the rest of the world. During the day the heat of the sun is unbearable and the nights are still and lonely. Tribes flock to it like animals in the open country flock to a water-hole. No government rules. There is no religion to guide people except one which promotes the worship of stone idols. There is no knowledge except priestcraft and a love for elegant poetry. This is Makkah and these are the Arabs.
In this town lies a young man who has not yet seen twenty summers. He is short and well-built and has a very heavy crop of hair. People compare him to a young lion. He comes from a rich and noble family. He is very attached to his parents and is particularly fond of his mother. He spends much of his time making and repairing bows and arrows and practising archery as if preparing himself for some great encounter. People recognize him as a serious and intelligent young man. He finds no satisfaction in the religion and way of life of his people, their corrupt beliefs and disagreeable practices. His name is Sad ibn Abi Waqqas.
One morning at about this time in his life the genial Abu Bakr came up and spoke softly to him. He explained that Muhammad ibn Abdullah the son of his late cousin Aminah bint Wahb had been given Revelations and sent with the religion of guidance and truth. Abu Bakr then took him to Muhammad in one of the valleys of Makkah. It was late afternoon by this time and the Prophet had just prayed Salat al-Asr. Sad was excited and overwhelmed and responded readily to the invitation to truth and the religion of One God. The fact that he was one of the first persons to accept Islam was something that pleased him greatly.
The Prophet, peace be on him, was also greatly pleased when Sad became a Muslim. He saw in him signs of excellence. The fact that he was still in his youth promised great things to come. It was as if this glowing crescent would become a shining full moon before long. Perhaps other young people of Makkah would follow his example, including some of his relations. For Sad ibn Abi Waqqas was in fact a maternal uncle of the Prophet since he belonged to the Bani Zuhrah, the clan of Aminah bint Wahb, the mother of the Prophet, peace be upon him. For this reason he is sometimes referred to as Sad of Zuhrah, to distinguish him from several others whose first name was Sad.
The Prophet is reported to have been pleased with his family relationship to Sad. Once as he was sitting with his companions, he saw Sad approaching and he said to them: "This is my maternal uncle. Let a man see his maternal uncle!"
While the Prophet was delighted with Sad's acceptance of Islam, others including and especially his mother were not. Sad relates: "When my mother heard the news of my Islam, she flew into a rage. She came up to me and said:
"O Sad! What is this religion that you have embraced which has taken you away from the religion of your mother and father...? By God, either you forsake your new religion or I would not eat or drink until I die. Your heart would be broken with grief for me and remorse would consume you on account of the deed which you have done and people would censure you forever more.'
'Don't do (such a thing), my mother,' I said, 'for I would not give up my religion for anything.'
However, she went on with her threat... For days she neither ate nor drank. She became emaciated and weak. Hour after hour, I went to her asking whether I should bring her some food or something to drink but she persistently refused, insisting that she would neither eat nor drink until she died or I abandoned my religion. I said to her:
'Yaa Ummaah! In spite of my strong love for you, my love for God and His Messenger is indeed stronger. By God, if you had a thousand souls and one soul after another were to depart, I would not abandon this my religion for anything.' When she saw that I was determined she relented unwillingly and ate and drank."
It was concerning Sad's relationship with his mother and her attempt to force him to recant his faith that the words of the Quran were revealed: "And we enjoined on man (to be good) to his parents. In pain upon pain did his mother bear him and his weaning took two years. So show gratitude to Me and to your parents. To Me is the final destiny.
"But if they strive to make you join in worship with Me things of which you have no knowledge, obey them not. Yet bear them company in this life with justice and consideration and follow the way of those who turn to Me. In the end, the return of you all is to Me and I shall tell you (the truth and meaning of) all that you used to do." (Surah Luqman, 31: 14-15).
In these early days of Islam, the Muslims were careful not to arouse the sensibilities of the Quraysh. They would often go out together in groups to the glens outside Makkah where they could pray together without being seen. But one day a number of idolaters came upon them while they were praying and rudely interrupted them with ridicule. The Muslims felt they could not suffer these indignities passively and they came to blows with the idolaters. Sad ibn Abi Waqqas struck one of the disbelievers with the jawbone of a camel and wounded him. This was the first blood shed in the conflict between Islam and kufr - a conflict that was later to escalate and test the patience and courage of the Muslims.
After the incident, however, the Prophet enjoined his companions to be patient and forbearing for this was the command of God: "And bear with patience what they say and avoid them with noble dignity. And leave Me alone to deal with those who give the lie to the Truth, those who enjoy the blessings of life (without any thought of God) and bear with them for a little while." (The Quran, Surah al Muzzammil, 71: 1O).
More than a decade later when permission was given for the Muslims to fight. Sad ibn Abi Waqqas was to play a distinguished role in many of the engagements that took place both during the time of the Prophet and after. He fought at Badr together with his young brother Umayr who had cried to be allowed to accompany the Muslim army for he was only in his early teens. Sad returned to Madinah alone for Umayr was one of the fourteen Muslim martyrs who fell in the battle.
At the Battle of Uhud, Sad was specially chosen as one of the best archers together with Zayd, Saib the son of Uthman ibn Mazun and others. Sad was one of those who fought vigorously in defence of the Prophet after some Muslims had deserted their positions. To urge him on, the Prophet, peace be on him, said: "Irmi Sad...Fidaaka Abi wa Ummi " Shoot, Sad ...may my mother and father be your ransom."
Of this occasion, Ali ibn Abi Talib said that he had not yet heard the Prophet, peace be on him, promising such a ransom to anyone except Sad. Sad is also known as the first companion to have shot an arrow in defence of Islam. And the Prophet once prayed for him:
"O Lord, direct his shooting and respond to his prayer." Sad was one of the companions of the Prophet who was blessed with great wealth. Just as he was known for his bravery, so he was known for his generosity. During the Farewell Pilgrimage with the Prophet, he fell ill. The Prophet came to visit him and Sad said:
"O Messenger of God. I have wealth and I only have one daughter to inherit from me. Shall I give two thirds of my wealth as sadaqah?" "No," replied the Prophet. "Then, (shall I give) a half?." asked Sad and the Prophet again said 'no'.
"Then, (shall I give) a third?' asked Sad.
"Yes," said the Prophet. "The third is much. Indeed to leave your heirs well-off' is better than that you should leave them dependent on and to beg from people. If you spend anything seeking to gain thereby the pleasure of God, you will be rewarded for it even if it is a morsel which you place in your wife's mouth."
Sad did not remain the father of just one child but was blessed thereafter with many children.
Sad is mainly renowned as the commander-in-chief of the strong Muslim army which Umar despatched to confront the Persians at Qadisiyyah. Umar wanted nothing less than an end to Sasanian power which for centuries had dominated the region.
To confront the numerous and well-equipped Persians was a most daunting task. The most powerful force had to be mustered. Umar sent despatches to Muslim governors throughout the state to mobilize all able-bodied persons who had weapons or mounts, or who had talents of oratory and other skills to place at the service of the battle.
Bands of Mujahidin then converged on Madinah from every part of the Muslim domain. When they had all gathered, Umar consulted the leading Muslims about the appointment of a commander-in-chief over the mighty army. Umar himself thought of leading the army but Ali suggested that the Muslims were in great need of him and he should not endanger his life. Sad was then chosen as commander and Abdur-Rahman ibn Awl, one of the veterans among the Sahabah said:
"You have chosen well! Who is there like Sad?" Umar stood before the great army and bade farewell to them. To the commander-in-chief he said:
"O Sad! Let not any statement that you are the uncle of the Messenger of God or that you are the companion of the Messenger of God distract you from God. God Almighty does not obliterate evil with evil but he wipes out evil with good.
"O Sad! There is no connection between God and anyone except obedience to Him. In the sight of God all people whether nobleman or commoner are the same. Allah is their Lord and they are His servants seeking elevation through taqwa and seeking to obtain what is with God through obedience. Consider how the Messenger of God used to act with the Muslims and act accordingly..."
Umar thus made it clear that the army was not to seek conquest for the sake of it and that the expedition was not for seeking personal glory and fame.
The three thousand strong army set off. Among them were ninety nine veterans of Badr, more than three hundred of those who took the Pledge of Riffwan (Satisfaction) at Hudaybiyyah and three hundred of those who had participated in the liberation of Makkah with the noble Prophet. There were seven hundred sons of the companions. Thousands of women also went on to battle as auxiliaries and nurses and to urge the men on to battle.
The army camped at Qadisiyyah near Hira. Against them the Persians had mobilized a force of 12O,OOO men under the leadership of their most brilliant commander, Rustum.
Umar had instructed Sad to send him regular despatches about the condition and movements of the Muslim forces, and of the deployment of the enemy's forces. Sad wrote to Umar about the unprecedented force that the Persians were mobilizing and Umar wrote to him:
"Do not be troubled by what you hear about them nor about the (forces, equipment and methods) they would deploy against you. Seek help with God and put your trust in Him and send men of insight, knowledge and toughness to him (the Chosroes) to invite him to God... And write to me daily."
Sad understood well the gravity of the impending battle and kept in close contact with the military high command in Madinah. Although commander-in-chief, he understood the importance of shura.
Sad did as Umar instructed and sent delegations of Muslims first to Yazdagird and then to Rustum, inviting them to accept Islam or to pay the jizyah to guarantee their protection and peaceful existence or to choose war if they so desired.
The first Muslim delegation which included Numan ibn Muqarrin was ridiculed by the Persian Emperor, Yazdagird. Sad sent a delegation to Rustum, the commander of the Persian forces. This was led by Rubiy ibn Aamir who, with spear in hand, went directly to Rustam's encampment. Rustam said to him:
"Rubiy! What do you want from us? If you want wealth we would give you. We would provide you with provisions until you are sated. We would clothe you. We would make you become rich and happy. Look, Rubiy! What do you see in this assembly of mine? No doubt you see signs of richness and luxury, these lush carpets, fine curtains, gold embroidered wails, carpets of silk...Do you have any desire that we should bestow some of these riches which we have on you?"
Rustum thus wanted to impress the Muslim and allure him from his purpose by this show of opulence and grandeur. Rubiy looked and listened unmoved and then said:
"Listen, O commander! Certainly God has chosen us that through us those of His creation whom He so desires could be drawn away from the worship of idols to Tawhid (the affirmation of the unity of God), from the narrow confines of preoccupation with this world to its boundless expanse and from the tyranny of rulers to justice of Islam.
"Whoever accepts that from us we are prepared to welcome him. And whoever fights us, we would fight him until the promise of God comes to pass." "And what is the promise of God to you?" asked Rustum. "Paradise for our martyrs and victory for those who live."
Rustum of course was not inclined to listen to such talk from a seemingly wretched person the likes of whom the Persians regarded as barbaric and uncivilized and whom they had conquered and subjugated for centuries.
The Muslim delegation returned to their commanderin-chief. It was clear that war was now inevitable. Sad's eyes filled with tears. He wished that the battle could be delayed a little or indeed that it might have been somewhat earlier. For on this particular day he was seriously ill and could hardly move. He was suffering from sciatica and he could not even sit upright for the pain.
Sad knew that this was going to be a bitter, harsh and bloody battle. And for a brief moment he thought, if only... but no! The Messenger of God had taught the Muslims that none of them should say, "If....." To say "If....." implied a lack of will and determination and wishing that a situation might have been different was not the characteristic of a firm believer. So, despite his illness, Sad got up and stood before his army and addressed them. He began his speech with a verse from the glorious Quran:
"And indeed after having exhorted (man), We have laid it down in all the books of Divine wisdom that My righteous servants shall inherit the earth." Surah al-Anbiyaa, 21:1O5).
The address over, Sad performed Salat az-Zuhr with the army. Facing them once again, he shouted the Muslim battle cry "Allahu Akbar" four times and directed the fighters to attack with the words:
"Hayya ala barakatillah Charge, with the blessings of God." Standing in front of his tent, Sad directed his soldiers and spurred them on with shouts of Allahu Akbar (God is Most Great) and La hawla wa la quwwata ilia billah (there is no power or might save with God). For four days the battle raged. The Muslims displayed valor and skill. But a Persian elephant corps wrought havoc in the ranks of the Muslims. The ferocious battle was only resolved when several renowned Muslim warriors made a rush in the direction of the Persian commander. A storm arose and the canopy of Rustam was blown into the river. As he tried to flee he was detected and slain. Complete confusion reigned among the Persians and they fled in disarray.
Just how ferocious the battle was can be imagined when it is known that some thirty thousand persons on both sides fell in the course of four days' fighting. In one day alone, some two thousand Muslims and about ten thousand Persians lost their lives.
The Battle of Qadisiyyah is one of the major decisive battles of world history. It sealed the fate of the Sasanian Empire just as the Battle of Yarmuk had sealed the fate of the Byzantine Empire in the east.
Two years after Qadisiyyah, Sad went on to take the Sasanian capital. By then he had recovered his health. The taking of Ctesiphon was accomplished after a brilliant crossing of the Tigris river while it was in flood. Sad has thus gone down in the annals of history as the Hero of Qadisiyyah and the Conqueror of Ctesiphon.
He lived until he was almost eighty years old. He was blessed with much influence and wealth but as the time of death approached in the year 54 AH, he asked his son to open a box in which he had kept a course woolen jubbah and said: "Shroud me in this, for in this (jubbah) I met the Mushrikin on the day of Badr and in it I desire to meet God Almighty."
In this town lies a young man who has not yet seen twenty summers. He is short and well-built and has a very heavy crop of hair. People compare him to a young lion. He comes from a rich and noble family. He is very attached to his parents and is particularly fond of his mother. He spends much of his time making and repairing bows and arrows and practising archery as if preparing himself for some great encounter. People recognize him as a serious and intelligent young man. He finds no satisfaction in the religion and way of life of his people, their corrupt beliefs and disagreeable practices. His name is Sad ibn Abi Waqqas.
One morning at about this time in his life the genial Abu Bakr came up and spoke softly to him. He explained that Muhammad ibn Abdullah the son of his late cousin Aminah bint Wahb had been given Revelations and sent with the religion of guidance and truth. Abu Bakr then took him to Muhammad in one of the valleys of Makkah. It was late afternoon by this time and the Prophet had just prayed Salat al-Asr. Sad was excited and overwhelmed and responded readily to the invitation to truth and the religion of One God. The fact that he was one of the first persons to accept Islam was something that pleased him greatly.
The Prophet, peace be on him, was also greatly pleased when Sad became a Muslim. He saw in him signs of excellence. The fact that he was still in his youth promised great things to come. It was as if this glowing crescent would become a shining full moon before long. Perhaps other young people of Makkah would follow his example, including some of his relations. For Sad ibn Abi Waqqas was in fact a maternal uncle of the Prophet since he belonged to the Bani Zuhrah, the clan of Aminah bint Wahb, the mother of the Prophet, peace be upon him. For this reason he is sometimes referred to as Sad of Zuhrah, to distinguish him from several others whose first name was Sad.
The Prophet is reported to have been pleased with his family relationship to Sad. Once as he was sitting with his companions, he saw Sad approaching and he said to them: "This is my maternal uncle. Let a man see his maternal uncle!"
While the Prophet was delighted with Sad's acceptance of Islam, others including and especially his mother were not. Sad relates: "When my mother heard the news of my Islam, she flew into a rage. She came up to me and said:
"O Sad! What is this religion that you have embraced which has taken you away from the religion of your mother and father...? By God, either you forsake your new religion or I would not eat or drink until I die. Your heart would be broken with grief for me and remorse would consume you on account of the deed which you have done and people would censure you forever more.'
'Don't do (such a thing), my mother,' I said, 'for I would not give up my religion for anything.'
However, she went on with her threat... For days she neither ate nor drank. She became emaciated and weak. Hour after hour, I went to her asking whether I should bring her some food or something to drink but she persistently refused, insisting that she would neither eat nor drink until she died or I abandoned my religion. I said to her:
'Yaa Ummaah! In spite of my strong love for you, my love for God and His Messenger is indeed stronger. By God, if you had a thousand souls and one soul after another were to depart, I would not abandon this my religion for anything.' When she saw that I was determined she relented unwillingly and ate and drank."
It was concerning Sad's relationship with his mother and her attempt to force him to recant his faith that the words of the Quran were revealed: "And we enjoined on man (to be good) to his parents. In pain upon pain did his mother bear him and his weaning took two years. So show gratitude to Me and to your parents. To Me is the final destiny.
"But if they strive to make you join in worship with Me things of which you have no knowledge, obey them not. Yet bear them company in this life with justice and consideration and follow the way of those who turn to Me. In the end, the return of you all is to Me and I shall tell you (the truth and meaning of) all that you used to do." (Surah Luqman, 31: 14-15).
In these early days of Islam, the Muslims were careful not to arouse the sensibilities of the Quraysh. They would often go out together in groups to the glens outside Makkah where they could pray together without being seen. But one day a number of idolaters came upon them while they were praying and rudely interrupted them with ridicule. The Muslims felt they could not suffer these indignities passively and they came to blows with the idolaters. Sad ibn Abi Waqqas struck one of the disbelievers with the jawbone of a camel and wounded him. This was the first blood shed in the conflict between Islam and kufr - a conflict that was later to escalate and test the patience and courage of the Muslims.
After the incident, however, the Prophet enjoined his companions to be patient and forbearing for this was the command of God: "And bear with patience what they say and avoid them with noble dignity. And leave Me alone to deal with those who give the lie to the Truth, those who enjoy the blessings of life (without any thought of God) and bear with them for a little while." (The Quran, Surah al Muzzammil, 71: 1O).
More than a decade later when permission was given for the Muslims to fight. Sad ibn Abi Waqqas was to play a distinguished role in many of the engagements that took place both during the time of the Prophet and after. He fought at Badr together with his young brother Umayr who had cried to be allowed to accompany the Muslim army for he was only in his early teens. Sad returned to Madinah alone for Umayr was one of the fourteen Muslim martyrs who fell in the battle.
At the Battle of Uhud, Sad was specially chosen as one of the best archers together with Zayd, Saib the son of Uthman ibn Mazun and others. Sad was one of those who fought vigorously in defence of the Prophet after some Muslims had deserted their positions. To urge him on, the Prophet, peace be on him, said: "Irmi Sad...Fidaaka Abi wa Ummi " Shoot, Sad ...may my mother and father be your ransom."
Of this occasion, Ali ibn Abi Talib said that he had not yet heard the Prophet, peace be on him, promising such a ransom to anyone except Sad. Sad is also known as the first companion to have shot an arrow in defence of Islam. And the Prophet once prayed for him:
"O Lord, direct his shooting and respond to his prayer." Sad was one of the companions of the Prophet who was blessed with great wealth. Just as he was known for his bravery, so he was known for his generosity. During the Farewell Pilgrimage with the Prophet, he fell ill. The Prophet came to visit him and Sad said:
"O Messenger of God. I have wealth and I only have one daughter to inherit from me. Shall I give two thirds of my wealth as sadaqah?" "No," replied the Prophet. "Then, (shall I give) a half?." asked Sad and the Prophet again said 'no'.
"Then, (shall I give) a third?' asked Sad.
"Yes," said the Prophet. "The third is much. Indeed to leave your heirs well-off' is better than that you should leave them dependent on and to beg from people. If you spend anything seeking to gain thereby the pleasure of God, you will be rewarded for it even if it is a morsel which you place in your wife's mouth."
Sad did not remain the father of just one child but was blessed thereafter with many children.
Sad is mainly renowned as the commander-in-chief of the strong Muslim army which Umar despatched to confront the Persians at Qadisiyyah. Umar wanted nothing less than an end to Sasanian power which for centuries had dominated the region.
To confront the numerous and well-equipped Persians was a most daunting task. The most powerful force had to be mustered. Umar sent despatches to Muslim governors throughout the state to mobilize all able-bodied persons who had weapons or mounts, or who had talents of oratory and other skills to place at the service of the battle.
Bands of Mujahidin then converged on Madinah from every part of the Muslim domain. When they had all gathered, Umar consulted the leading Muslims about the appointment of a commander-in-chief over the mighty army. Umar himself thought of leading the army but Ali suggested that the Muslims were in great need of him and he should not endanger his life. Sad was then chosen as commander and Abdur-Rahman ibn Awl, one of the veterans among the Sahabah said:
"You have chosen well! Who is there like Sad?" Umar stood before the great army and bade farewell to them. To the commander-in-chief he said:
"O Sad! Let not any statement that you are the uncle of the Messenger of God or that you are the companion of the Messenger of God distract you from God. God Almighty does not obliterate evil with evil but he wipes out evil with good.
"O Sad! There is no connection between God and anyone except obedience to Him. In the sight of God all people whether nobleman or commoner are the same. Allah is their Lord and they are His servants seeking elevation through taqwa and seeking to obtain what is with God through obedience. Consider how the Messenger of God used to act with the Muslims and act accordingly..."
Umar thus made it clear that the army was not to seek conquest for the sake of it and that the expedition was not for seeking personal glory and fame.
The three thousand strong army set off. Among them were ninety nine veterans of Badr, more than three hundred of those who took the Pledge of Riffwan (Satisfaction) at Hudaybiyyah and three hundred of those who had participated in the liberation of Makkah with the noble Prophet. There were seven hundred sons of the companions. Thousands of women also went on to battle as auxiliaries and nurses and to urge the men on to battle.
The army camped at Qadisiyyah near Hira. Against them the Persians had mobilized a force of 12O,OOO men under the leadership of their most brilliant commander, Rustum.
Umar had instructed Sad to send him regular despatches about the condition and movements of the Muslim forces, and of the deployment of the enemy's forces. Sad wrote to Umar about the unprecedented force that the Persians were mobilizing and Umar wrote to him:
"Do not be troubled by what you hear about them nor about the (forces, equipment and methods) they would deploy against you. Seek help with God and put your trust in Him and send men of insight, knowledge and toughness to him (the Chosroes) to invite him to God... And write to me daily."
Sad understood well the gravity of the impending battle and kept in close contact with the military high command in Madinah. Although commander-in-chief, he understood the importance of shura.
Sad did as Umar instructed and sent delegations of Muslims first to Yazdagird and then to Rustum, inviting them to accept Islam or to pay the jizyah to guarantee their protection and peaceful existence or to choose war if they so desired.
The first Muslim delegation which included Numan ibn Muqarrin was ridiculed by the Persian Emperor, Yazdagird. Sad sent a delegation to Rustum, the commander of the Persian forces. This was led by Rubiy ibn Aamir who, with spear in hand, went directly to Rustam's encampment. Rustam said to him:
"Rubiy! What do you want from us? If you want wealth we would give you. We would provide you with provisions until you are sated. We would clothe you. We would make you become rich and happy. Look, Rubiy! What do you see in this assembly of mine? No doubt you see signs of richness and luxury, these lush carpets, fine curtains, gold embroidered wails, carpets of silk...Do you have any desire that we should bestow some of these riches which we have on you?"
Rustum thus wanted to impress the Muslim and allure him from his purpose by this show of opulence and grandeur. Rubiy looked and listened unmoved and then said:
"Listen, O commander! Certainly God has chosen us that through us those of His creation whom He so desires could be drawn away from the worship of idols to Tawhid (the affirmation of the unity of God), from the narrow confines of preoccupation with this world to its boundless expanse and from the tyranny of rulers to justice of Islam.
"Whoever accepts that from us we are prepared to welcome him. And whoever fights us, we would fight him until the promise of God comes to pass." "And what is the promise of God to you?" asked Rustum. "Paradise for our martyrs and victory for those who live."
Rustum of course was not inclined to listen to such talk from a seemingly wretched person the likes of whom the Persians regarded as barbaric and uncivilized and whom they had conquered and subjugated for centuries.
The Muslim delegation returned to their commanderin-chief. It was clear that war was now inevitable. Sad's eyes filled with tears. He wished that the battle could be delayed a little or indeed that it might have been somewhat earlier. For on this particular day he was seriously ill and could hardly move. He was suffering from sciatica and he could not even sit upright for the pain.
Sad knew that this was going to be a bitter, harsh and bloody battle. And for a brief moment he thought, if only... but no! The Messenger of God had taught the Muslims that none of them should say, "If....." To say "If....." implied a lack of will and determination and wishing that a situation might have been different was not the characteristic of a firm believer. So, despite his illness, Sad got up and stood before his army and addressed them. He began his speech with a verse from the glorious Quran:
"And indeed after having exhorted (man), We have laid it down in all the books of Divine wisdom that My righteous servants shall inherit the earth." Surah al-Anbiyaa, 21:1O5).
The address over, Sad performed Salat az-Zuhr with the army. Facing them once again, he shouted the Muslim battle cry "Allahu Akbar" four times and directed the fighters to attack with the words:
"Hayya ala barakatillah Charge, with the blessings of God." Standing in front of his tent, Sad directed his soldiers and spurred them on with shouts of Allahu Akbar (God is Most Great) and La hawla wa la quwwata ilia billah (there is no power or might save with God). For four days the battle raged. The Muslims displayed valor and skill. But a Persian elephant corps wrought havoc in the ranks of the Muslims. The ferocious battle was only resolved when several renowned Muslim warriors made a rush in the direction of the Persian commander. A storm arose and the canopy of Rustam was blown into the river. As he tried to flee he was detected and slain. Complete confusion reigned among the Persians and they fled in disarray.
Just how ferocious the battle was can be imagined when it is known that some thirty thousand persons on both sides fell in the course of four days' fighting. In one day alone, some two thousand Muslims and about ten thousand Persians lost their lives.
The Battle of Qadisiyyah is one of the major decisive battles of world history. It sealed the fate of the Sasanian Empire just as the Battle of Yarmuk had sealed the fate of the Byzantine Empire in the east.
Two years after Qadisiyyah, Sad went on to take the Sasanian capital. By then he had recovered his health. The taking of Ctesiphon was accomplished after a brilliant crossing of the Tigris river while it was in flood. Sad has thus gone down in the annals of history as the Hero of Qadisiyyah and the Conqueror of Ctesiphon.
He lived until he was almost eighty years old. He was blessed with much influence and wealth but as the time of death approached in the year 54 AH, he asked his son to open a box in which he had kept a course woolen jubbah and said: "Shroud me in this, for in this (jubbah) I met the Mushrikin on the day of Badr and in it I desire to meet God Almighty."
Umar ibn al- Khattab ( Rd )
."God has placed truth upon Umar's tongue and heart"... (Abu Dawud, book 19, 2955)"
Umar's Life
During his last illness Abu Bakr had conferred with his people, particularly the more eminent among them. After this meeting they chose Umar as his successor. Umar was born into a respected Quraish family thirteen years after the birth of Muhammad (peace be on him). Umar's family was known for its extensive knowledge of genealogy. When he grew up, Umar was proficient in this branch of knowledge as well as in swordsmanship, wrestling and the art of speaking. He also learned to read and write while still a child, a very rare thing in Mecca at that time. Umar earned his living as a merchant. His trade took him to many foreign lands and he met all kinds of people. This experience gave him an insight into the affairs and problems of men. Umar's personality was dynamic, self-assertive, frank and straight forward. He always spoke whatever was in his mind even if it displeased others.
Umar was twenty-seven when the Prophet (peace be on him) proclaimed his mission. The ideas Muhammad was preaching enraged him as much as they did the other notables of Mecca. He was just as bitter against anyone accepting Islam as others among the Quraish. When his slave-girl accepted Islam he beat her until he himself was exhausted and told her, "I have stopped because I am tired, not out of pity for you." The story of his embracing Islam is an interesting one. One day, full of anger against the Prophet, he drew his sword and set out to kill him. A friend met him on the way. When Umar told him what he planned to do, his friend informed him that Umar's own sister, Fatima, and her husband had also accepted Islam. Umar went straight to his sister's house where he found her reading from pages of the Qur'an. He fell upon her and beat her mercilessly. Bruised and bleeding, she told her brother, "Umar, you can do what you like, but you cannot turn our hearts away from Islam." These words produced a strange effect upon Umar. What was this faith that made even weak women so strong of heart? He asked his sister to show him what she had been reading; he was at once moved to the core by the words of the Qur'an and immediately grasped their truth. He went straight to the house where the Prophet was staying and vowed allegiance to him.
Umar made no secret of his acceptance of Islam. He gathered the Muslims and offered prayers at the Ka'aba. This boldness and devotion of an influential citizen of Mecca raised the morale of the small community of Muslims. Nonetheless Umar was also subjected to privations, and when permission for emigration to Medina came, he also left Mecca. The soundness of Umar's judgment, his devotion to the Prophet (peace be on him), his outspokenness and uprightness won for him a trust and confidence from the Prophet which was second only to that given to Abu Bakr. The Prophet gave him the title 'Farooq' which means the 'Separator of Truth from False hood.' During the Caliphate of Abu Bakr, Umar was his closest assistant and adviser. When Abu Bakr died, all the people of Medina swore allegiance to Umar, and on 23 Jamadi-al-Akhir, 13 A.H., he was proclaimed Caliph.
Umar's Caliphate
After taking charge of his office, Umar spoke to the Muslims of Medina:
"...O people, you have some rights on me which you can always claim. One of your rights is that if anyone of you comes to me with a claim, he should leave satisfied. Another of your rights is that you can demand that I take nothing unjustly from the revenues of the State. You can also demand that... I fortify your frontiers and do not put you into danger. It is also your right that if you go to battle I should look after your families as a father would while you are away. "O people, remain conscious of God, forgive me my faults and help me in my task. Assist me in enforcing what is good and forbidding what is evil. Advise me regarding the obligations that have been imposed upon me by God..."
The most notable feature of Umar's caliphate was the vast expansion of Islam. Apart from Arabia, Egypt, Iraq, Palestine and Iran also came under the protection of the Islamic government. But the greatness of Umar himself lies in the quality of his rule. He gave a practical meaning to the Qur'anic injunction:
"O you who believe, stand out firmly for justice as witnesses to God, even as against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it concerns rich or poor, for God can best protect both." [4:135]
Once a woman brought a claim against the Caliph Umar. When Umar appeared on trial before the judge, the judge stood up as a sign of respect toward him. Umar reprimanded him, saying, "This is the first act of injustice you did to this woman!"
He insisted that his appointed governors live simple lives, keep no guard at their doors and be accessible to the people at all times, and he himself set the example for them. Many times foreign envoys and messengers sent to him by his generals found him resting under a palm tree or praying in the mosque among the people, and it was difficult for them to distinguish which man was the Caliph. He spent many a watchful night going about the streets of Medina to see whether anyone needed help or assistance. The general social and moral tone of the Muslim society at that time is well-illustrated by the words of an Egyptian who was sent to spy on the Muslims during their Egyptian campaign. He reported:
"I have seen a people, every one of whom loves death more than he loves life. They cultivate humility rather than pride. None is given to material ambitions. Their mode of living is simple... Their commander is their equal. They make no distinction between superior and inferior, between master and slave. When the time of prayer approaches, none remains behind..."
Umar gave his government an administrative structure. Departments of treasury, army and public revenues were established. Regular salaries were set up for soldiers. A popuation census was held. Elaborate land surveys were conducted to assess equitable taxes. New cities were founded. The areas which came under his rule were divided into provinces and governors were appointed. New roads were laid, canals were lug and wayside hotels were built. Provision was made for he support of the poor and the needy from public funds. He defined, by precept and by example, the rights and privileges of non-Muslims, an example of which is the following contract with the Christians of Jerusalem:
"This is the protection which the servant of God, Umar, the Ruler of the Believers has granted to the people of Eiliya [Jerusalem]. The protection is for their lives and properties, their churches and crosses, their sick and healthy and for all their coreligionists. Their churches shall not be used for habitation, nor shall they be demolished, nor shall any injury be done to them or to their compounds, or to their crosses, nor shall their properties be injured in any way. There shall be no compulsion for these people in the matter of religion, nor shall any of them suffer any injury on account of religion... Whatever is written herein is under the covenant of God and the responsibility of His Messenger, of the Caliphs and of the believers, and shall hold good as long as they pay Jizya [the tax for their defense] imposed on them."
Those non-Muslims who took part in defense together with the Muslims were exempted from paying Jizya, and when the Muslims had to retreat from a city whose non-Muslim citizens had paid this tax for their defense, the tax was returned to the non-Muslims. The old, the poor and the disabled of Muslims and non-Muslims alike were provided for from the public treasury and from the Zakat funds.
Umar's Death
In 23 A.H., when Umar returned to Medina from Hajj;, he raised his hands and prayed,
"O God! I am advanced in years, my bones are weary, my powers are declining, and the people for whom I am responsible have spread far and wide. Summon me back to Thyself, my lord!" Some time later, when Umar went to the mosque to lead a prayer, a Magian named Abu Lulu Feroze, who had a grudge against Umar on a personal matter, attacked him with a dagger and stabbed him several times. Umar reeled and fell to the ground. When he learned that the assassin was a Magian, he said, "Thank God he is not a Muslim."
Umar died in the first week of Muharram, 24 A.H., and was buried by the side of the Holy Prophet (peace be on him).
Umar's Life
During his last illness Abu Bakr had conferred with his people, particularly the more eminent among them. After this meeting they chose Umar as his successor. Umar was born into a respected Quraish family thirteen years after the birth of Muhammad (peace be on him). Umar's family was known for its extensive knowledge of genealogy. When he grew up, Umar was proficient in this branch of knowledge as well as in swordsmanship, wrestling and the art of speaking. He also learned to read and write while still a child, a very rare thing in Mecca at that time. Umar earned his living as a merchant. His trade took him to many foreign lands and he met all kinds of people. This experience gave him an insight into the affairs and problems of men. Umar's personality was dynamic, self-assertive, frank and straight forward. He always spoke whatever was in his mind even if it displeased others.
Umar was twenty-seven when the Prophet (peace be on him) proclaimed his mission. The ideas Muhammad was preaching enraged him as much as they did the other notables of Mecca. He was just as bitter against anyone accepting Islam as others among the Quraish. When his slave-girl accepted Islam he beat her until he himself was exhausted and told her, "I have stopped because I am tired, not out of pity for you." The story of his embracing Islam is an interesting one. One day, full of anger against the Prophet, he drew his sword and set out to kill him. A friend met him on the way. When Umar told him what he planned to do, his friend informed him that Umar's own sister, Fatima, and her husband had also accepted Islam. Umar went straight to his sister's house where he found her reading from pages of the Qur'an. He fell upon her and beat her mercilessly. Bruised and bleeding, she told her brother, "Umar, you can do what you like, but you cannot turn our hearts away from Islam." These words produced a strange effect upon Umar. What was this faith that made even weak women so strong of heart? He asked his sister to show him what she had been reading; he was at once moved to the core by the words of the Qur'an and immediately grasped their truth. He went straight to the house where the Prophet was staying and vowed allegiance to him.
Umar made no secret of his acceptance of Islam. He gathered the Muslims and offered prayers at the Ka'aba. This boldness and devotion of an influential citizen of Mecca raised the morale of the small community of Muslims. Nonetheless Umar was also subjected to privations, and when permission for emigration to Medina came, he also left Mecca. The soundness of Umar's judgment, his devotion to the Prophet (peace be on him), his outspokenness and uprightness won for him a trust and confidence from the Prophet which was second only to that given to Abu Bakr. The Prophet gave him the title 'Farooq' which means the 'Separator of Truth from False hood.' During the Caliphate of Abu Bakr, Umar was his closest assistant and adviser. When Abu Bakr died, all the people of Medina swore allegiance to Umar, and on 23 Jamadi-al-Akhir, 13 A.H., he was proclaimed Caliph.
Umar's Caliphate
After taking charge of his office, Umar spoke to the Muslims of Medina:
"...O people, you have some rights on me which you can always claim. One of your rights is that if anyone of you comes to me with a claim, he should leave satisfied. Another of your rights is that you can demand that I take nothing unjustly from the revenues of the State. You can also demand that... I fortify your frontiers and do not put you into danger. It is also your right that if you go to battle I should look after your families as a father would while you are away. "O people, remain conscious of God, forgive me my faults and help me in my task. Assist me in enforcing what is good and forbidding what is evil. Advise me regarding the obligations that have been imposed upon me by God..."
The most notable feature of Umar's caliphate was the vast expansion of Islam. Apart from Arabia, Egypt, Iraq, Palestine and Iran also came under the protection of the Islamic government. But the greatness of Umar himself lies in the quality of his rule. He gave a practical meaning to the Qur'anic injunction:
"O you who believe, stand out firmly for justice as witnesses to God, even as against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, and whether it concerns rich or poor, for God can best protect both." [4:135]
Once a woman brought a claim against the Caliph Umar. When Umar appeared on trial before the judge, the judge stood up as a sign of respect toward him. Umar reprimanded him, saying, "This is the first act of injustice you did to this woman!"
He insisted that his appointed governors live simple lives, keep no guard at their doors and be accessible to the people at all times, and he himself set the example for them. Many times foreign envoys and messengers sent to him by his generals found him resting under a palm tree or praying in the mosque among the people, and it was difficult for them to distinguish which man was the Caliph. He spent many a watchful night going about the streets of Medina to see whether anyone needed help or assistance. The general social and moral tone of the Muslim society at that time is well-illustrated by the words of an Egyptian who was sent to spy on the Muslims during their Egyptian campaign. He reported:
"I have seen a people, every one of whom loves death more than he loves life. They cultivate humility rather than pride. None is given to material ambitions. Their mode of living is simple... Their commander is their equal. They make no distinction between superior and inferior, between master and slave. When the time of prayer approaches, none remains behind..."
Umar gave his government an administrative structure. Departments of treasury, army and public revenues were established. Regular salaries were set up for soldiers. A popuation census was held. Elaborate land surveys were conducted to assess equitable taxes. New cities were founded. The areas which came under his rule were divided into provinces and governors were appointed. New roads were laid, canals were lug and wayside hotels were built. Provision was made for he support of the poor and the needy from public funds. He defined, by precept and by example, the rights and privileges of non-Muslims, an example of which is the following contract with the Christians of Jerusalem:
"This is the protection which the servant of God, Umar, the Ruler of the Believers has granted to the people of Eiliya [Jerusalem]. The protection is for their lives and properties, their churches and crosses, their sick and healthy and for all their coreligionists. Their churches shall not be used for habitation, nor shall they be demolished, nor shall any injury be done to them or to their compounds, or to their crosses, nor shall their properties be injured in any way. There shall be no compulsion for these people in the matter of religion, nor shall any of them suffer any injury on account of religion... Whatever is written herein is under the covenant of God and the responsibility of His Messenger, of the Caliphs and of the believers, and shall hold good as long as they pay Jizya [the tax for their defense] imposed on them."
Those non-Muslims who took part in defense together with the Muslims were exempted from paying Jizya, and when the Muslims had to retreat from a city whose non-Muslim citizens had paid this tax for their defense, the tax was returned to the non-Muslims. The old, the poor and the disabled of Muslims and non-Muslims alike were provided for from the public treasury and from the Zakat funds.
Umar's Death
In 23 A.H., when Umar returned to Medina from Hajj;, he raised his hands and prayed,
"O God! I am advanced in years, my bones are weary, my powers are declining, and the people for whom I am responsible have spread far and wide. Summon me back to Thyself, my lord!" Some time later, when Umar went to the mosque to lead a prayer, a Magian named Abu Lulu Feroze, who had a grudge against Umar on a personal matter, attacked him with a dagger and stabbed him several times. Umar reeled and fell to the ground. When he learned that the assassin was a Magian, he said, "Thank God he is not a Muslim."
Umar died in the first week of Muharram, 24 A.H., and was buried by the side of the Holy Prophet (peace be on him).
The World of the Jinn
Throughout history man has always had a deep attraction for the supernatural and the unseen. The existence of a world parallel to our own has always fascinated people. This world is commonly referred to as the spirit world, and almost every set of people have some concept of one. With some people, these spirits are no more then the souls of dead people- or ghosts. With others, spirits are either the forces of good or the forces of evil - both battling against one another to gain influence over humanity. However, both of these explanations are more in tune with folk tales and fantasy. The true explanation of such a world comes from Islam. Like every other way, Islam also claims to explain this realm of the unseen. It is from this realm that Islam explains to us about the world of the Jinn. The Islamic explanation of the Jinn provides us with so many answers to modem day mysteries. Without the knowledge of this world, the Muslims would become like the non-Muslims and be running around looking for any old answer to come their way. So, who or what are the Jinn?
Existence
The Jinn are beings created with free will, living on earth in a world parallel to mankind. The Arabic word Jinn is from the verb 'Janna' which means to hide or conceal. Thus, they are physically invisible from man as their description suggests. This invisibility is one of the reasons why some people have denied their existence. However, (as will be seen) the affect which the world of the Jinn has upon our world, is enough to refute this modern denial of one of Allah's creation. The origins of the Jinn can be traced from the Qur'an and the Sunnah. Allah says:
"Indeed We created man from dried clay of black smooth mud. And We created the Jinn before that from the smokeless flame of fire"
[Surah Al-Hijr 15:26-27]
Thus the Jinn were created before man. As for their physical origin, then the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) has confirmed the above verse when he said: "The Angels were created from light and the Jinn from smokeless fire" [1]. It is this description of the Jinn which tells us so much about them. Because they were created from fire, their nature has generally been fiery and thus their relationship with man has been built upon this. Like humans, they too are required to worship Allah and follow Islam. Their purpose in life is exactly the same as ours, as Allah says:
"I did not create the Jinn and mankind except to worship Me"
[Surah Ad-Dhariyat, 51:56]
Jinns can thus be Muslims or non-Muslims. However, due to their fiery nature the majority of them are non-Muslims. All these non-Muslim Jinns form a part of the army of the most famous Jinn, Iblis- the Shaitan[2]. Consequently, these disbelieving Jinns are also called Shaitans (devils). As for the Jinns who become Muslims, then the first of them did so in the time of the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) when a group of them were amazed by the recitation of the Qur'an. Allah orders the Prophet to tell the people of this event:
"Say (O' Muhammad): It has been revealed to me that a group of Jinn listened and said; 'Indeed we have heard a marvellous Qur'an. It guides unto righteousness so we have believed in it, and we will never make partners with our lord'"
[Surah Al-Jinn, 72:1-2]
In many aspects of their world, the Jinn are very similar to us. They eat and drink, they marry, have children and they die. The life span however, is far greater then ours. Like us, they will also be subject to a Final Reckoning by Allah the Most High. They will be present with mankind on the Day of Judgement and will either go to Paradise or Hell.
Abilities
That which clearly distinguishes the Jinn from mankind, are their powers and abilities. Allah has given them these powers as a test for them. If they oppress others with them, then they will be held accountable. By knowing of their powers, we can often make sense of much of the mysteries which go on around us. One of the powers of the Jinn, is that they are able to take on any physical form they like. Thus, they can appear as humans, animals trees and anything else. Over the last few years the interest in the subject of aliens and UFO's has become heightened. Programmes such as the X-files and the Outer limits have increased the popularity of the theory that aliens exist. Thousands of people have sighted strange looking creatures all over the world. These sightings however, have still not proven substantially that aliens exist. Rather - and it seems more plausible all the sightings of such creatures were just Jinns parading in different forms. So the next time you see something that looks like E.T, its most probably just a wicked Jinn trying to scare and confuse you!
The ability to possess and take over the minds and bodies of other creatures is also a power which the Jinn have utilised greatly over the centuries. This however, is something which has been prohibited to them as it is a great oppression to possess another being. Human possession is something which has always brought about great attention. But the true knowledge of this subject is rare amongst the people. Over the last 3 decades the subject of possession has become very commercialised. During the 70's films such as The Exorcist and Rosemary's Baby were used to educate people about possession. However, because such institutions (the film industry) were heavily influenced by Christianity, knowledge of the subject was non-existent. Rather then educate people about Jinn possession, films such as The Exorcist just tended to scare the living daylights out of us![3] Only through Islam can we understand such a phenomena. We know as Muslims, that Jinns possess people for many reasons. Sometimes it is because the Jinn or its family has been hurt accidentally. It could be because the Jinn has fallen in love with the person. However, most of the time possession occurs because the Jinn is simply malicious and wicked. For this reason we have been told by the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) not to loiter in those places where the Jinns reside, e.g. graveyards, ruins, deserts, market places etc. We have also been commanded to recite the Qur'an frequently in our houses as the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: "Indeed, the shaytan flees from the house in which Surah Al-Baqarah (the 2nd chapter of the Qur'an) is recited"[4].
If a person does become possessed, then the name of Allah has to be used in expelling the Jinn. If we look at the practice of the Prophet and his companions, we find many duas (supplications) to exorcise the Jinn. All these duas invoke Allah to help the possessed person. How contrary this is to many modern-day exorcists. Many exorcists, Muslim and non-Muslim, often invoke the names of others besides Allah to exorcise the Jinn[5]. When the Jinn does leave, these people believe that their way was successful. However, this is a ploy of the Jinn, as it knows that if it obeys the exorcist, then it has succeeded in making him worship others besides Allah i.e. commit shirk. The Jinn often returns when the exorcist leaves, as it knows that nothing except the words of Allah can stop it from oppressing others.
It is not only humans which are possessed, but also animals, trees and other objects. By doing this, the evil Jinn hope to make people worship others besides Allah. The possession of idols is one way to do this. Not so long ago the world-wide phenomenon of Hindu idols drinking milk, shocked the world. From Bombay to London, Delhi to California, countless idols were lapping up milk. Ganesh[6] the elephant god, Hanuman the monkey god and even Shiva lingam, the male private organ(!), all seemed to guzzle down the milk as if there was no tomorrow! Unfortunately people were taken in by this (including Muslims) and many flocked to feed (?) the Hindu gods. Anyone who knows about Jinn possession, will undoubtedly know that this is a classic attempt to make people commit shirk. And it worked, as many people started to worship these lifeless pieces of wood and marble. Anyone with half a brain would say to themselves, 'why on earth does a god need to be fed?!! Surely if Ganesh, Hanuman or Shiva were divine then they wouldn't need feeding?' However, such common sense seemed to be lacking as the Jinns played havoc with these gullible people.
The Occult
Through their powers of flying and invisibility, the Jinn are the chief component in occult activities. Voodoo, Black magic, Poltergeists, Witchcraft and Mediums can all be explained through the world of the Jinn. Likewise, so can the illusions and feats of magicians. Because the Jinn can traverse huge distances over a matter of seconds, their value to magicians is great. In return for helping them in their magic, the Jinns often ask for the magicians to sell their souls to them and even to Iblis. Thus the magicians take the Jinn and Iblis as lords besides Allah. In our day, some of the feats performed by magicians and entertainers are without doubt from the assistance of the Jinn. Making the Statue of Liberty disappear, flying across the Grand Canyon and retrieving a ship from the Bermuda Triangle[7], have all been done by the Jewish magician David Copperfield. There is NO way that a man could do such things without the assistance of the Jinn. It would not be surprising therefore, if David Copperfield had sold his soul to Iblis himself. Because of their involvement with the Jinn, and its result in shirk, the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: "The prescribed punishment for the magician is that he be executed by the sword" [8]. Some may argue that this is barbaric, but if, the likes of David Copperfield truly had powers, then they could just put their heads back on again!!
One of the most frequent activities associated with the Jinn, is fortune telling. Before the advent of the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) fortune-tellers and soothsayers were wide spread. These people would use their associates from the Jinn to find out about the future. The Jinns would go to the lowest heaven and listen to the Angels conversing amongst themselves about events of the Future which they heard from Allah. The Jinns would then inform the fortune-tellers. This is why before the time of the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) many fortune-tellers were very accurate in their predictions. However, upon the Prophet's arrival the heavens were guarded intensely by the Angels, and any Jinn who tried to listen was attacked by meteors (shooting stars):
"And We have guarded it (the heavens) from every accursed devil, except one who is able to snatch a hearing and he is pursued by a brightly burning flame"
[Surah Al-Hijr, 15:18]
The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) also said: "They (the Jinn) would pass the information back down until it reaches the lips of a magician or forrtune-teller Sometimes a meteor would overtake them before they could pass it on. If they passed it on before being struck, they would add to it a hundred lies" [9]. Thus, it is clear from this as to how fortune-tellers get predictions of the future right. It is also evident as to why they get so many wrong. Men like Nostradamus[10] are an example, as some of his predictions of the future were correct whilst many were completely wrong. Unfortunately, the amount of fortune telling which occurs amongst the Muslims is also increasing. By visiting Muslim lands such as Morocco, one is able to see as to how much inter Jinn-fortune-teller activity there really is. If you look up at the sky on a clear night in Morocco, you will see the heavens ablaze with shooting stars! A clear display of the devils being chased away from the heavens.
Fortune-tellers also operate through the Qareen. The Qareen is the Jinn companion which is assigned to every human being. It is this Jinn which whispers to our base desires and constantly tries to divert us from righteousness. The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: "Everyone of you has been assigned a companion from the Jinn. The companions asked: Even you O' Messenger of Allah? And the Prophet replied: Even me, except that Allah has helped me against him and he has submitted. Now he only tells me to do good" [11]. Because the Qareen is with a person all his life, it knows all that has happened to the person from the cradle to the grave. By making contact with the Qareen, the fortune-teller is thus able to make out that it is he who knows about the person. He looks in his crystal ball or the palm of a person and proceeds to amaze him with knowledge which no one else knows[12]. The severity of going to a fortune-teller is such that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: "The prayer of one who approaches a fortune-teller and asks him about anything, will not be accepted for forty days or nights" [13] and: "Whosoever approaches a fortune-teller and believes in what he says, has disbelieved in what was revealed to Muhammed" [14]
The effects of the Jinn are not just limited to fortune-tellers. Other activities such as oujia boards and seances, which are used to contact the dead, are manipulated by the Jinn. 'Are you there Charlie? Speak to us Charlie!!' are the sort of words spoken by anxious relatives (names are obviously different!) seeking to make contact with their loved ones. And it is when the Jinn starts to talk and communicate as 'Charlie', that the people are truly fooled[15].
One of the biggest manipulations of the Jinn is through visions. Through these visions the Jinns are more likely to lead people away from the worship of Allah then any other way. When a person sees a vision in front of his eyes it is something which is very hard to explain away. Only by having knowledge of the world of the Jinn and conviction in Allah, can a person fight such a trial. The countless numbers of visions of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary over the centuries has been a popular choice for the devils. It almost seems as if leading Christians astray is the most easiest trick for the Jinns! Not only are Christians fooled by these visions, but often the Jinns possess and begin to talk from their voices. To the Christians this is known as the tongues of the Angels and thus a proof for their faith. However, the amount of unintelligible nonsense and rubbish which is heard is a clear proof that this is in fact the tongues of the devils! For other people, visions of their parents or relatives are commonplace. By taking on the form of peoples parents, the Jinns can convince people that the souls of dead people still mix with the people of the earth. This is why so many people believe in ghosts.
The onslaught of satanic visions has also hit the Muslims. Many Muslims claim to have seen visions of the Prophet Muhammed (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) and even Allah! By doing this, Shaitan is able to lead astray the weak Muslims. Through such visions, Muslims are often told that the commands of Islam are not applicable to them. The Jinns tell them that Prayer, Fasting, Hajj etc. are not obligatory for them. It is a great deception and unfortunately one which has been very effective. The extent of satanic visions still continues to this day. The recent death of Diana Princess of Wales sparked off great love and adoration for this woman. In fact the grief of the British people was such, that it was as if Diana was something divine. No sooner had the mourning of Diana reached its peak, that visions of her were already being seen at Hampton Court Palace! If these visions did occur, the desire of Iblis and his army of Jinn to capitalise on this event, was evident. Such visions are clear attempts by Iblis to lead mankind away from the path of Allah [16].
The world of the Jinn is one which is both sinister and intriguing. By knowing of this world we can explain many of the mysteries and issues which bother us. By doing this we can avoid the extremes which the people have gone to; nothing being more extreme then worshipping others besides Allah. By learning the Tawheed of Allah, we defend ourselves from these hidden allies of Iblis:
"Indeed he (Iblis) and his tribe watch you from a position where you cannot see them"
[Surah Al-A'raf, 7:27]
Maybe there is a Jinn sitting in the corner of your room right now, or even one behind you. If so, then how will you deal with this creation of Allah? Learn Islam properly and you will be able to deal with all of Allah's creation - and not just the Jinn. By becoming true Muslims and followers of Islam, the fear of Iblis, Jinns and anything else will leave us - nothing will touch the Believer unless Allah wills.
Footnotes
1 Reported by Muslim - Eng. Trans. Vol. 4, p.1540, No.7134
2 It must be remembered that Iblis is a Jinn and not an Angel. The concept of the Devil being a fallen Angel is from Christianity and not Islam.
3 In fact when The Exorcist was first shown on cinema, it was so scary that many people fainted and one even died!
4 Authentic - Reported by Tirmidhi
5 Whilst Christians invoke the name of Jesus, many Muslims invoke the name of pious Muslim saints! The rituals which are conducted by many Muslims are more akin to voodoo then the exorcism practised by the Prophet and his companions!!
6 Ganesh, the elephant headed deity, seemed to be the biggest drinker! In fact it didn't just stop at milk. At the time of these occurrences, a woman in India decided to see if Ganesh would drink anything else - so she offered him whiskey!! And Lo and behold Ganesh drank the Whiskey!!! Suffice to say, the woman was kicked out of India.
7 The ship which was recovered was more then 50 years old. It subsequently caught alight and was conveniently destroyed.
8 Authentic - Reported by Tirmidhi
9 Reported by Bukhari - Eng. Trans. Vol.7, p.439, No.657
10 Michel de Nostradamus was a famous French soothsayer of the 16th century.
11 Reported by Muslim - Eng. Trans. Vol.4, p.1472, No.6757
12 The classic example of how fortune tellers can be wrong is the case of Diana, Princess of Wales and Dodi Fayed. Both went to see a fortune teller who told Diana that she would live a long and happy life. A few weeks later, on August 31st 1997, Diana and Dodi Fayed were dead. After this the fortune tellers flew for cover, as their evil art showed its decadence.
13 Reported by Muslim - Eng. Trans. Vol.4, p.1211, No.5540
14 Authentic - Reported by Ahmed
15 Ouija boards are so misleading, that people have even managed to get in touch with the spirit of Jack the Ripper!!
16 Informative books on the world of the Jinn is Ibn Taymeeyah's Essay on the Jinn translated by Abu Ameenah Bilal Phillips, and The jinn in the Qur'an and Sunnah by Mustafa Ashour
Existence
The Jinn are beings created with free will, living on earth in a world parallel to mankind. The Arabic word Jinn is from the verb 'Janna' which means to hide or conceal. Thus, they are physically invisible from man as their description suggests. This invisibility is one of the reasons why some people have denied their existence. However, (as will be seen) the affect which the world of the Jinn has upon our world, is enough to refute this modern denial of one of Allah's creation. The origins of the Jinn can be traced from the Qur'an and the Sunnah. Allah says:
"Indeed We created man from dried clay of black smooth mud. And We created the Jinn before that from the smokeless flame of fire"
[Surah Al-Hijr 15:26-27]
Thus the Jinn were created before man. As for their physical origin, then the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) has confirmed the above verse when he said: "The Angels were created from light and the Jinn from smokeless fire" [1]. It is this description of the Jinn which tells us so much about them. Because they were created from fire, their nature has generally been fiery and thus their relationship with man has been built upon this. Like humans, they too are required to worship Allah and follow Islam. Their purpose in life is exactly the same as ours, as Allah says:
"I did not create the Jinn and mankind except to worship Me"
[Surah Ad-Dhariyat, 51:56]
Jinns can thus be Muslims or non-Muslims. However, due to their fiery nature the majority of them are non-Muslims. All these non-Muslim Jinns form a part of the army of the most famous Jinn, Iblis- the Shaitan[2]. Consequently, these disbelieving Jinns are also called Shaitans (devils). As for the Jinns who become Muslims, then the first of them did so in the time of the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) when a group of them were amazed by the recitation of the Qur'an. Allah orders the Prophet to tell the people of this event:
"Say (O' Muhammad): It has been revealed to me that a group of Jinn listened and said; 'Indeed we have heard a marvellous Qur'an. It guides unto righteousness so we have believed in it, and we will never make partners with our lord'"
[Surah Al-Jinn, 72:1-2]
In many aspects of their world, the Jinn are very similar to us. They eat and drink, they marry, have children and they die. The life span however, is far greater then ours. Like us, they will also be subject to a Final Reckoning by Allah the Most High. They will be present with mankind on the Day of Judgement and will either go to Paradise or Hell.
Abilities
That which clearly distinguishes the Jinn from mankind, are their powers and abilities. Allah has given them these powers as a test for them. If they oppress others with them, then they will be held accountable. By knowing of their powers, we can often make sense of much of the mysteries which go on around us. One of the powers of the Jinn, is that they are able to take on any physical form they like. Thus, they can appear as humans, animals trees and anything else. Over the last few years the interest in the subject of aliens and UFO's has become heightened. Programmes such as the X-files and the Outer limits have increased the popularity of the theory that aliens exist. Thousands of people have sighted strange looking creatures all over the world. These sightings however, have still not proven substantially that aliens exist. Rather - and it seems more plausible all the sightings of such creatures were just Jinns parading in different forms. So the next time you see something that looks like E.T, its most probably just a wicked Jinn trying to scare and confuse you!
The ability to possess and take over the minds and bodies of other creatures is also a power which the Jinn have utilised greatly over the centuries. This however, is something which has been prohibited to them as it is a great oppression to possess another being. Human possession is something which has always brought about great attention. But the true knowledge of this subject is rare amongst the people. Over the last 3 decades the subject of possession has become very commercialised. During the 70's films such as The Exorcist and Rosemary's Baby were used to educate people about possession. However, because such institutions (the film industry) were heavily influenced by Christianity, knowledge of the subject was non-existent. Rather then educate people about Jinn possession, films such as The Exorcist just tended to scare the living daylights out of us![3] Only through Islam can we understand such a phenomena. We know as Muslims, that Jinns possess people for many reasons. Sometimes it is because the Jinn or its family has been hurt accidentally. It could be because the Jinn has fallen in love with the person. However, most of the time possession occurs because the Jinn is simply malicious and wicked. For this reason we have been told by the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) not to loiter in those places where the Jinns reside, e.g. graveyards, ruins, deserts, market places etc. We have also been commanded to recite the Qur'an frequently in our houses as the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: "Indeed, the shaytan flees from the house in which Surah Al-Baqarah (the 2nd chapter of the Qur'an) is recited"[4].
If a person does become possessed, then the name of Allah has to be used in expelling the Jinn. If we look at the practice of the Prophet and his companions, we find many duas (supplications) to exorcise the Jinn. All these duas invoke Allah to help the possessed person. How contrary this is to many modern-day exorcists. Many exorcists, Muslim and non-Muslim, often invoke the names of others besides Allah to exorcise the Jinn[5]. When the Jinn does leave, these people believe that their way was successful. However, this is a ploy of the Jinn, as it knows that if it obeys the exorcist, then it has succeeded in making him worship others besides Allah i.e. commit shirk. The Jinn often returns when the exorcist leaves, as it knows that nothing except the words of Allah can stop it from oppressing others.
It is not only humans which are possessed, but also animals, trees and other objects. By doing this, the evil Jinn hope to make people worship others besides Allah. The possession of idols is one way to do this. Not so long ago the world-wide phenomenon of Hindu idols drinking milk, shocked the world. From Bombay to London, Delhi to California, countless idols were lapping up milk. Ganesh[6] the elephant god, Hanuman the monkey god and even Shiva lingam, the male private organ(!), all seemed to guzzle down the milk as if there was no tomorrow! Unfortunately people were taken in by this (including Muslims) and many flocked to feed (?) the Hindu gods. Anyone who knows about Jinn possession, will undoubtedly know that this is a classic attempt to make people commit shirk. And it worked, as many people started to worship these lifeless pieces of wood and marble. Anyone with half a brain would say to themselves, 'why on earth does a god need to be fed?!! Surely if Ganesh, Hanuman or Shiva were divine then they wouldn't need feeding?' However, such common sense seemed to be lacking as the Jinns played havoc with these gullible people.
The Occult
Through their powers of flying and invisibility, the Jinn are the chief component in occult activities. Voodoo, Black magic, Poltergeists, Witchcraft and Mediums can all be explained through the world of the Jinn. Likewise, so can the illusions and feats of magicians. Because the Jinn can traverse huge distances over a matter of seconds, their value to magicians is great. In return for helping them in their magic, the Jinns often ask for the magicians to sell their souls to them and even to Iblis. Thus the magicians take the Jinn and Iblis as lords besides Allah. In our day, some of the feats performed by magicians and entertainers are without doubt from the assistance of the Jinn. Making the Statue of Liberty disappear, flying across the Grand Canyon and retrieving a ship from the Bermuda Triangle[7], have all been done by the Jewish magician David Copperfield. There is NO way that a man could do such things without the assistance of the Jinn. It would not be surprising therefore, if David Copperfield had sold his soul to Iblis himself. Because of their involvement with the Jinn, and its result in shirk, the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: "The prescribed punishment for the magician is that he be executed by the sword" [8]. Some may argue that this is barbaric, but if, the likes of David Copperfield truly had powers, then they could just put their heads back on again!!
One of the most frequent activities associated with the Jinn, is fortune telling. Before the advent of the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) fortune-tellers and soothsayers were wide spread. These people would use their associates from the Jinn to find out about the future. The Jinns would go to the lowest heaven and listen to the Angels conversing amongst themselves about events of the Future which they heard from Allah. The Jinns would then inform the fortune-tellers. This is why before the time of the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) many fortune-tellers were very accurate in their predictions. However, upon the Prophet's arrival the heavens were guarded intensely by the Angels, and any Jinn who tried to listen was attacked by meteors (shooting stars):
"And We have guarded it (the heavens) from every accursed devil, except one who is able to snatch a hearing and he is pursued by a brightly burning flame"
[Surah Al-Hijr, 15:18]
The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) also said: "They (the Jinn) would pass the information back down until it reaches the lips of a magician or forrtune-teller Sometimes a meteor would overtake them before they could pass it on. If they passed it on before being struck, they would add to it a hundred lies" [9]. Thus, it is clear from this as to how fortune-tellers get predictions of the future right. It is also evident as to why they get so many wrong. Men like Nostradamus[10] are an example, as some of his predictions of the future were correct whilst many were completely wrong. Unfortunately, the amount of fortune telling which occurs amongst the Muslims is also increasing. By visiting Muslim lands such as Morocco, one is able to see as to how much inter Jinn-fortune-teller activity there really is. If you look up at the sky on a clear night in Morocco, you will see the heavens ablaze with shooting stars! A clear display of the devils being chased away from the heavens.
Fortune-tellers also operate through the Qareen. The Qareen is the Jinn companion which is assigned to every human being. It is this Jinn which whispers to our base desires and constantly tries to divert us from righteousness. The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: "Everyone of you has been assigned a companion from the Jinn. The companions asked: Even you O' Messenger of Allah? And the Prophet replied: Even me, except that Allah has helped me against him and he has submitted. Now he only tells me to do good" [11]. Because the Qareen is with a person all his life, it knows all that has happened to the person from the cradle to the grave. By making contact with the Qareen, the fortune-teller is thus able to make out that it is he who knows about the person. He looks in his crystal ball or the palm of a person and proceeds to amaze him with knowledge which no one else knows[12]. The severity of going to a fortune-teller is such that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: "The prayer of one who approaches a fortune-teller and asks him about anything, will not be accepted for forty days or nights" [13] and: "Whosoever approaches a fortune-teller and believes in what he says, has disbelieved in what was revealed to Muhammed" [14]
The effects of the Jinn are not just limited to fortune-tellers. Other activities such as oujia boards and seances, which are used to contact the dead, are manipulated by the Jinn. 'Are you there Charlie? Speak to us Charlie!!' are the sort of words spoken by anxious relatives (names are obviously different!) seeking to make contact with their loved ones. And it is when the Jinn starts to talk and communicate as 'Charlie', that the people are truly fooled[15].
One of the biggest manipulations of the Jinn is through visions. Through these visions the Jinns are more likely to lead people away from the worship of Allah then any other way. When a person sees a vision in front of his eyes it is something which is very hard to explain away. Only by having knowledge of the world of the Jinn and conviction in Allah, can a person fight such a trial. The countless numbers of visions of Jesus Christ and the Virgin Mary over the centuries has been a popular choice for the devils. It almost seems as if leading Christians astray is the most easiest trick for the Jinns! Not only are Christians fooled by these visions, but often the Jinns possess and begin to talk from their voices. To the Christians this is known as the tongues of the Angels and thus a proof for their faith. However, the amount of unintelligible nonsense and rubbish which is heard is a clear proof that this is in fact the tongues of the devils! For other people, visions of their parents or relatives are commonplace. By taking on the form of peoples parents, the Jinns can convince people that the souls of dead people still mix with the people of the earth. This is why so many people believe in ghosts.
The onslaught of satanic visions has also hit the Muslims. Many Muslims claim to have seen visions of the Prophet Muhammed (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) and even Allah! By doing this, Shaitan is able to lead astray the weak Muslims. Through such visions, Muslims are often told that the commands of Islam are not applicable to them. The Jinns tell them that Prayer, Fasting, Hajj etc. are not obligatory for them. It is a great deception and unfortunately one which has been very effective. The extent of satanic visions still continues to this day. The recent death of Diana Princess of Wales sparked off great love and adoration for this woman. In fact the grief of the British people was such, that it was as if Diana was something divine. No sooner had the mourning of Diana reached its peak, that visions of her were already being seen at Hampton Court Palace! If these visions did occur, the desire of Iblis and his army of Jinn to capitalise on this event, was evident. Such visions are clear attempts by Iblis to lead mankind away from the path of Allah [16].
The world of the Jinn is one which is both sinister and intriguing. By knowing of this world we can explain many of the mysteries and issues which bother us. By doing this we can avoid the extremes which the people have gone to; nothing being more extreme then worshipping others besides Allah. By learning the Tawheed of Allah, we defend ourselves from these hidden allies of Iblis:
"Indeed he (Iblis) and his tribe watch you from a position where you cannot see them"
[Surah Al-A'raf, 7:27]
Maybe there is a Jinn sitting in the corner of your room right now, or even one behind you. If so, then how will you deal with this creation of Allah? Learn Islam properly and you will be able to deal with all of Allah's creation - and not just the Jinn. By becoming true Muslims and followers of Islam, the fear of Iblis, Jinns and anything else will leave us - nothing will touch the Believer unless Allah wills.
Footnotes
1 Reported by Muslim - Eng. Trans. Vol. 4, p.1540, No.7134
2 It must be remembered that Iblis is a Jinn and not an Angel. The concept of the Devil being a fallen Angel is from Christianity and not Islam.
3 In fact when The Exorcist was first shown on cinema, it was so scary that many people fainted and one even died!
4 Authentic - Reported by Tirmidhi
5 Whilst Christians invoke the name of Jesus, many Muslims invoke the name of pious Muslim saints! The rituals which are conducted by many Muslims are more akin to voodoo then the exorcism practised by the Prophet and his companions!!
6 Ganesh, the elephant headed deity, seemed to be the biggest drinker! In fact it didn't just stop at milk. At the time of these occurrences, a woman in India decided to see if Ganesh would drink anything else - so she offered him whiskey!! And Lo and behold Ganesh drank the Whiskey!!! Suffice to say, the woman was kicked out of India.
7 The ship which was recovered was more then 50 years old. It subsequently caught alight and was conveniently destroyed.
8 Authentic - Reported by Tirmidhi
9 Reported by Bukhari - Eng. Trans. Vol.7, p.439, No.657
10 Michel de Nostradamus was a famous French soothsayer of the 16th century.
11 Reported by Muslim - Eng. Trans. Vol.4, p.1472, No.6757
12 The classic example of how fortune tellers can be wrong is the case of Diana, Princess of Wales and Dodi Fayed. Both went to see a fortune teller who told Diana that she would live a long and happy life. A few weeks later, on August 31st 1997, Diana and Dodi Fayed were dead. After this the fortune tellers flew for cover, as their evil art showed its decadence.
13 Reported by Muslim - Eng. Trans. Vol.4, p.1211, No.5540
14 Authentic - Reported by Ahmed
15 Ouija boards are so misleading, that people have even managed to get in touch with the spirit of Jack the Ripper!!
16 Informative books on the world of the Jinn is Ibn Taymeeyah's Essay on the Jinn translated by Abu Ameenah Bilal Phillips, and The jinn in the Qur'an and Sunnah by Mustafa Ashour
As Salaf as Saalih (the Pious Predecessors) - Explanation of the Salaf
As Salaf as Saalih
(the Pious Predecessors)
Explanation of the Salaf
"And whoever contradicts and opposes the Messenger
(Muhammad s.a.w.s ) after the right path has been shown clearly to him, and follows other than the believers' way (i.e. the Prophet and his companions) We shall keep him in the path he has chosen, and burn him in Hell - what an evil destination."
[Verse 115 of Surah Nisaa]
The word "Salaf" is a condensation of "Salaf-as Saalih" which means "The Pious Predecessors". The Salaf are the first three generations of Islam:
1) The Prophet and his Companions
2) The Taabi'een (the generation after them)
3) The Atbaa'tul- Taabi'een (the generation after the taabi'een)
The Taabi'een never met the Prophet, but met the sahaabi (companions).
So who are the people that follow the Salaf-as-Saalih? They are termed as "Salafi" or "Salafiyyah".
In the Cassette, "at-Tahdheer min al-Bid'ah" , Shiekh Saleh al Fowzan was asked:
"Is Salafiyyah a hizb (party) from amongst the parties. And is ascribing to them (i.e. the Salafis) a blameworthy thing?"
To which he replied:
"As-Salafiyyah (i.e. the Salafis) is the Saved Sect, and they are Ahl us-Sunnah wal-Jamaa'ah. It is not a hizb (party) from amongst the various parties, those which are called "parties" today. Rather they are the Jamaa'ah, the Jamaa'ah upon the Sunnah and upon the Deen (religion). They are Ahl us-Sunnah wal-Jamaa'ah. The Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) said,
"There will not cease to be a group from my Ummah manifest and upon the truth not being harmed by those who forsake them neither by those who oppose them" and he (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) also said, "And this Ummah will split into seventy-three sects, all of them in the Hellfire but one". They said, which one is this O Messenger of Allaah? He replied, "They are those who are upon what I and my companions are upon today".
Hence Salafiyyah is a group of people (i.e. the Salafis) upon the madhhab of the Salaf, upon what the Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) and his companions were upon and it is not a hizb from amongst the contemporary groups present today. Rather it is the very old Jamaa'ah, from the time of the Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) which inherits (this way) and continues, and which never ceases to be upon the manifest truth until the establishment of the Hour, as he (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) has informed (us)."
In his Chapter of ascription to the Salaf from "Haadhihi Mafaaheemunaa", Sheikh Saalih Aal ash-Sheikh says:
"Muslims are of two groups: Salafis and Khalafis. As for the Salafis, then they are the followers of Salaf us-Saalih (first three generations of Muslims). And as for the Khalafis, then they are the followers of the understanding of the Khalaf and they are also called Innovators - since everyone who is not pleased and satisfied with the path of the Salaf us-Saalih, in knowledge and action, understanding and fiqh, then he is a khalafi, an innovator."
The Prophet (may peace and blessings be upon him) said: "The best of Mankind is my generation, then those who follow them, then those who follow them." (Related by Imam Bukhaari)
The term Salafiyyah or Salafi was not used that the time of the Prophet (may peace and blessings be upon him) because they were on the true path of Islaam. But as Hizbs started to arise and sects became more prevalent, the need for further ascription arose. Therefore it is not Bid'ah to label ones self a Salafi.
The point is to distinguish ourselves from the factions that exist in Islam.
The prophet (may peace and blessings be upon him) said to Fatimah (may Allah be pleased with her):"How excellent a Salaf I am for you." (Related by Muslim)
Shaikh Salih al-Fawzan was asked "Is the one who gives himself the title of 'as-Salafi' considered to have set up a 'hizb'?". To which he replied, "There is no harm in labelling oneself with Salafiyyah when it is in truth.
However how evil is it to label yourself from amongst the Salaffiyah but then have the 'Aqeedah and Manhaj of that other than it?
Brothers and Sisters, it is imperative that we grab hold to the rope of Allaah and follow His messenger (may peace and blessings be upon him)
As-Sam'aanee said in al-lnsaab: "As-Salafi: this is an ascription to the Salaf and following their ways, in that which is related from them." lbn al-Atheer said in al-Lubaab fee Tahdheebul-lnsaab, commenting upon the previous saying of as-Sam'aanee: "And a group were known by this ascription." So the meaning is: that the term Salafi, and its ascription to them, was a matter known in the time of Imaam as-Sam'aanee, or before him.
Imaam adh-Dhahabee said in "Siyar": "It is authentically related from ad-Daaraqutnee that he said: There is nothing more despised by me than 'ilmul-kalaam (innovated speech and rhetorics). I say: He never entered into 'ilmul-kalaam, nor argumentation. Rather, was a Salafee (a follower of the Salaf)."
Ibn Taymiyyah said: "There is no criticism for the one who proclaims the way (madhdhab) of the Salaf, who attaches himself to it and refers to it. Rather, it is obligatory to accept that from him by unanimous agreement (Ittifaaq) because the way (madhdhab) of the Salaf is nothing but the Truth (Haqq)."
Imaam al-Asbahaanee said: "The sign of Ahlus-Sunnah is that they follow the Salafus-Saalih and abandon all that is innovated and newly introduced into the Deen." [Al-Hujjah fee Bayaanil Mahajjah]
Imam Abu Haneefah (rahimahullaah) said: "Adhere to the athar (narration) and the tareeqah (way) of the Salaf (Pious Predecessors) and beware of newly invented matters for all of it is innovation" [Reported by As-Suyootee in Sawn al Mantaq wal-Kalaam]
*REJECTED SUNNAH VS BEAUTIFIED OPINION:: It is reported that Al-Awzâ’î said, “Follow the narrations [ways] of those who have preceded (the Salaf) even if people reject you; and beware of people’s opinions, even if they beautify them for you.” [Al-Âjurrî, Kitâb Al-Sharîrah Vol.1 p138; Ibn ‘Abd Al-Barr, Jâmi’ Bayân Al-‘Ilm wa Fadlihi Vol.3 p373.]
(the Pious Predecessors)
Explanation of the Salaf
"And whoever contradicts and opposes the Messenger
(Muhammad s.a.w.s ) after the right path has been shown clearly to him, and follows other than the believers' way (i.e. the Prophet and his companions) We shall keep him in the path he has chosen, and burn him in Hell - what an evil destination."
[Verse 115 of Surah Nisaa]
The word "Salaf" is a condensation of "Salaf-as Saalih" which means "The Pious Predecessors". The Salaf are the first three generations of Islam:
1) The Prophet and his Companions
2) The Taabi'een (the generation after them)
3) The Atbaa'tul- Taabi'een (the generation after the taabi'een)
The Taabi'een never met the Prophet, but met the sahaabi (companions).
So who are the people that follow the Salaf-as-Saalih? They are termed as "Salafi" or "Salafiyyah".
In the Cassette, "at-Tahdheer min al-Bid'ah" , Shiekh Saleh al Fowzan was asked:
"Is Salafiyyah a hizb (party) from amongst the parties. And is ascribing to them (i.e. the Salafis) a blameworthy thing?"
To which he replied:
"As-Salafiyyah (i.e. the Salafis) is the Saved Sect, and they are Ahl us-Sunnah wal-Jamaa'ah. It is not a hizb (party) from amongst the various parties, those which are called "parties" today. Rather they are the Jamaa'ah, the Jamaa'ah upon the Sunnah and upon the Deen (religion). They are Ahl us-Sunnah wal-Jamaa'ah. The Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) said,
"There will not cease to be a group from my Ummah manifest and upon the truth not being harmed by those who forsake them neither by those who oppose them" and he (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) also said, "And this Ummah will split into seventy-three sects, all of them in the Hellfire but one". They said, which one is this O Messenger of Allaah? He replied, "They are those who are upon what I and my companions are upon today".
Hence Salafiyyah is a group of people (i.e. the Salafis) upon the madhhab of the Salaf, upon what the Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) and his companions were upon and it is not a hizb from amongst the contemporary groups present today. Rather it is the very old Jamaa'ah, from the time of the Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) which inherits (this way) and continues, and which never ceases to be upon the manifest truth until the establishment of the Hour, as he (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) has informed (us)."
In his Chapter of ascription to the Salaf from "Haadhihi Mafaaheemunaa", Sheikh Saalih Aal ash-Sheikh says:
"Muslims are of two groups: Salafis and Khalafis. As for the Salafis, then they are the followers of Salaf us-Saalih (first three generations of Muslims). And as for the Khalafis, then they are the followers of the understanding of the Khalaf and they are also called Innovators - since everyone who is not pleased and satisfied with the path of the Salaf us-Saalih, in knowledge and action, understanding and fiqh, then he is a khalafi, an innovator."
The Prophet (may peace and blessings be upon him) said: "The best of Mankind is my generation, then those who follow them, then those who follow them." (Related by Imam Bukhaari)
The term Salafiyyah or Salafi was not used that the time of the Prophet (may peace and blessings be upon him) because they were on the true path of Islaam. But as Hizbs started to arise and sects became more prevalent, the need for further ascription arose. Therefore it is not Bid'ah to label ones self a Salafi.
The point is to distinguish ourselves from the factions that exist in Islam.
The prophet (may peace and blessings be upon him) said to Fatimah (may Allah be pleased with her):"How excellent a Salaf I am for you." (Related by Muslim)
Shaikh Salih al-Fawzan was asked "Is the one who gives himself the title of 'as-Salafi' considered to have set up a 'hizb'?". To which he replied, "There is no harm in labelling oneself with Salafiyyah when it is in truth.
However how evil is it to label yourself from amongst the Salaffiyah but then have the 'Aqeedah and Manhaj of that other than it?
Brothers and Sisters, it is imperative that we grab hold to the rope of Allaah and follow His messenger (may peace and blessings be upon him)
As-Sam'aanee said in al-lnsaab: "As-Salafi: this is an ascription to the Salaf and following their ways, in that which is related from them." lbn al-Atheer said in al-Lubaab fee Tahdheebul-lnsaab, commenting upon the previous saying of as-Sam'aanee: "And a group were known by this ascription." So the meaning is: that the term Salafi, and its ascription to them, was a matter known in the time of Imaam as-Sam'aanee, or before him.
Imaam adh-Dhahabee said in "Siyar": "It is authentically related from ad-Daaraqutnee that he said: There is nothing more despised by me than 'ilmul-kalaam (innovated speech and rhetorics). I say: He never entered into 'ilmul-kalaam, nor argumentation. Rather, was a Salafee (a follower of the Salaf)."
Ibn Taymiyyah said: "There is no criticism for the one who proclaims the way (madhdhab) of the Salaf, who attaches himself to it and refers to it. Rather, it is obligatory to accept that from him by unanimous agreement (Ittifaaq) because the way (madhdhab) of the Salaf is nothing but the Truth (Haqq)."
Imaam al-Asbahaanee said: "The sign of Ahlus-Sunnah is that they follow the Salafus-Saalih and abandon all that is innovated and newly introduced into the Deen." [Al-Hujjah fee Bayaanil Mahajjah]
Imam Abu Haneefah (rahimahullaah) said: "Adhere to the athar (narration) and the tareeqah (way) of the Salaf (Pious Predecessors) and beware of newly invented matters for all of it is innovation" [Reported by As-Suyootee in Sawn al Mantaq wal-Kalaam]
*REJECTED SUNNAH VS BEAUTIFIED OPINION:: It is reported that Al-Awzâ’î said, “Follow the narrations [ways] of those who have preceded (the Salaf) even if people reject you; and beware of people’s opinions, even if they beautify them for you.” [Al-Âjurrî, Kitâb Al-Sharîrah Vol.1 p138; Ibn ‘Abd Al-Barr, Jâmi’ Bayân Al-‘Ilm wa Fadlihi Vol.3 p373.]
2 Miljon Deeds!!!
A'oothu billahi minash-Shaytaan-Rajeem, Bismiaallah Ar-Rahman Ar-Rahim.Al7amduallah illahi Rabbil-'Aalamiin Ar-Rahman Ar-Rahim,Maliki Jawmid Din.
Surely all praise is for Allah.
We praise Him and seek
His help, we seek His
forgiveness and we seek
refuge in Him from the evil
of our own souls and from
the wickedness of our
deeds. Whoever He guides
shall never to astray and
whomever He allows to
stray,shall never find
guidance.I bear witness
that none has the right to
be worshipped but Allah,
Alone, who has no partner
and I bear witness that
Muhammad is His slave
and His Messenger.May
the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him and
upon his family and his
Companions and upon
those who follow them in
piety until the Day of Judgmen!
........Verily! Allah will not change the ( good ) condition of people as long
as they do not change their
state ( of goodness)
themselves ( by committing
sins and by being
ungrateful) and disobedient
to Allah ) ..( Q 13:11 )
Assalam aleykum wa Rahmatuaallah wa barakatoh!
I hope all of you are more then fine and your is full if lights abd barakah!! And your iman,
taqwa, soul ,heart, family,
friends,jobs and wealth is
always on the highest
degree inshaallah.
And that you had an great
juma'h and weekens with
family and friends.That you
made years out of minutes
and month out of seconds.
Lived the life today without
sorrow, anger and jealousy
and didnt cry over the past
because it will never comes
back and that you enjoyed
your times in prayer,reading Quran, make dawa and
spend it on your family and
friends etc inshaallah .
Alhamduaallah im stil sick,that I'm trying to rest
as much as I can,
inshaallah I will get better.I
didn't feel well alhamduaallah, that I just
wanted
to lay down and get
some hours of sleep.
But I couldn't hold my
thoughts back about some
issue that I heard from an
audio by some shiekh mas7aallah some days
ago and it was Subhan7aallah amazing to hear.
Hmmm what can I say about it!!!?
But Later on I
found that some few things from it was very
important to deliver at once,
to myself and to everyone
who Mas7aallah! Read my
notes etc. May Allah
Sub7an wa ta'ala grant all
of you mercy and make you all strong and brave and
Grant you all the
highest degree in Paradise
for that amiin amiin.
Anyhow!!! This issue that I'm
going to talk about, it's few things that so many of us
ignore or not even relise it.
Yet it's takes us some few
seconds to say it but yet
we don't recognize it's
value and reward and
infront of Allah the reward
of it's more then we could
ever imagine Wa Allah
Alam.
So! It's not important to
memorized every words I'm
writting. But the most
important is how this
knowledge benefits and
effects in our daily life inshaallah.
Because we can memorize,
all the knowledge in the
world! Yet most of it doesn't
benefits us at all Wa Allah Alam!
So the most important is
knowledge that benefits not
that which is memorized.
Look how amazing this is!
Let me give you an exampel how powerful our
toungue is and how
powerful this words we say is!!!!
Have it ever occured you!? When we say
sub7anaallah!!! Angels
moves from it's place!!
And when we going around saying one of the most
beloved words to
Allah: Al7amduaallah!!!!
The Angels open it's wings
and the Angels are 70.000
wings!!
And the Angels open
70.000 wings!!
So think about this!!
When you say Wa
laa'ilaaha ' illallah!!!!!
This Angels begins to fly!!!
And when it says Allah
Akbar!!!
The Angels Dives inside the oceans.
And One of the treasure of
paradise Laa hawla wa laa
quwwata ' ills billah illa
adhim!!!!! When it says:
The Angels comes out of
the water and it flaps it's
wings.
70.000 wings!!!!
70.000 of wings!!!
From every drops,Allah!!!
Creates an Angel and this Angels glorifies The
Allmighty Allah!!!!!
And this Angel keeps
asking Allah! To forgive him
right til the Day of
Judgment.
Yet! It takes not even 2
second to say this words!!!
So!! When its says Laa'
ilaaha 'illallaah Muhammad
Rasoolallah!!!!!
Allah The Most Merciful!!
Has created a pillar next to the Ashr! As soon the servant of Allah quoted this words!!!!
This pillar begins to shake infront of the Allmighty
Allah!!
The Allmighty Allah says to the pillar: Stay firm! Do not
move!!
The pillar says: Ya Allah! How can I stay firm, when the saying of this words have not been forgiven!?
Allah The Allmighty says: Stay firm!! Now the saying
of this words have been forgiving.
According to the Hadith of Tabarani!!!!!!!
One of the words that most beloved words to Allah!! Subhanaallaahi wa
bihamdihi!!!! Would not
even taking 2 seconds.
The Prophet Muhammad ( SAS) said: 125 Deeds!!! Are written in his account!!!!
Subhanaallah wa bihamdihi
and the Angel are written!!!
When a person says: Laa 'ilaaha'illallaahu wahdahu
laa shareeka lahu, Ahad wa-samad, lam yalid, wa
lam yoolad.Wa lam yakun
lahu kufuwan 'ahad!!!!!!
It takes 3-4 second and the Angels!! According to the Hadith of Tabarani!!!!!
Nabi Kareem ( SAS ) said: The Angels have written 2 Miljon Deeds in his account!!!!!!
2 Miljon Deed!!!!!!!
Can you imagine that!!!?
But today you and I,we have no time for small things in life!!!!!!!!
Because! We!!!Are thinking about the Big Things!!!
Big and luxury life style!!!
Yet! It will be this things
that will help us tomoroh on
The Day of Judgment!!!!!??
When this piece of flesh,is use in the negative manner!!!!!
Then your salat will not
help you!!!!!!!
Your fasting will not help you!!!!!!
Your helping others will not help you!!!!!
Your zakat will not help
you!!!!!!
Your Hajj will not help you!!!
Your umrah will not help you!!!!!!
NOTHING WILL HELP YOU!!!!!!!
What are you going to do about it!!??
Are you going to wait til something bad will happend to you!!! And Allah will use you as an exampel for others!!!?
Look around you!! And look down some streets!!!
And you will see and find that this the way many of
us speaking!!!
Five of out of ten words, will be a SWEAR!!!!!!!
And it's not even consider a sin and makes them feel
hard!!! Superious!!!!Cool!!!
But we will regret but then it's to late!!!!!!
We!!! Are taking faults!!!
Are making fun!!! We are criticizing!!!!
And because we are never
on the receiving end!!!
We don't relise!!!!!!
How could this day
passing!!!!!!!??
No Barakah, what's so
ever!!!!!
No blessings!!!!!!
What's ever left in TIME!!!
How years pass in our lives!!!!!!!
YET WHAT WE ACHIEVED!!!!!!!!?
EVERYONE OF US IS
TOXICTED WITH THE
LOOK Of DUNJA!!!!!!!!
AND EVERYONE OF US LIVING IN THIS WORLD BELIEVING THAT WE ARE
NOT GOING TO GO!!!!!!!!
BUT WE WILL!!!!!
Which is the Deeds that the Allmighty looks most of All!!!!!???
Which is the deeds that pleases Allah The Allmighty!!!!!!?
....To offer the prayers at their early stated fixed times!!!!!!!!
To be good to your parents!!!!!!
To participat in Jihad!!!!!!
A tougue that praises Allah often!!!!!!
Use your toungue for good deeds otherwise be quite!!! You will be asked every words you say that could be for you or against you!!!
Their is a sign in ourselves!!!
Just open your eyes and Look at us!!!!!
Every lim is perfect!!
Look at the heart that Allah subhan wa ta'ala has given us!!!
Small organs!!!
Yet it!! Pumps!!! And
beats!! 100 000 times in one day without even we relise it!!!
Do you relist it now or you will stil remain ignorant!!!?
And the blood!!
The heart pumps into the body 60 000 miles journey and the lung that Allah has given us we breathe in 2 miljon liter of air everyday without even relise that we
breathe this air!!!!!!
Stil we remain ungrateful!!!
The eyes that Allah have given us we can see the sunset's glow and at same times it can catch miljon
diffrent colours and it can take more information then
any great telescope!!!!!
And look at our ears!!! That Allah have blessed us with!!! So we would hear
what we would know at same times it can catch diffrent sounds!!!!
Have you ever thought about it!!!!
And just look at the brain that Allah have blessed us with!!!
It's small but yet it's more complex then many things
we could ever imagine!!!!
Look at you!!! The world is
yours!!! Allah have blessed
you with legs and feet to take you where you want to go!!!!!
Then which of the blessings of your Lord will you both [ Jinn and men ] deny? ( Q 55:13 )...!!!!!?
So would you sell your ability to hear and see for the weight of Mount Uhud
in gold!!!!!??
Or your ability to speak for
huge castles!!!!!?
Look at us!! We are blessed
with all of this things,yet
we are so ungrateful and use it in a negative manner!!!?
We have been given abundant favours!!!!!!
Yet we feign ignorance!!!!
We think about what we do
not have and are ungrateful for what we have been given!!!!!
Think about it and look around you!!! You stil feel that you have a poor life!!'!!!???
Subhanaallah Allahumna wa bihamdihi,Ash-hadu 'an laa 'ilaaha illaa Anta
Astaqfiruaallah wa'atoobu 'ilayka.( Glory is to You, Oh Allah, and praise is to You. I bear witness that there is none worthy worship but You. I seek Your forgiveness and repent to
You).
Ya Allah! If I did right, reward me when coming to You.But if I did it wrong it
was because of my bad soul and shaytan. Ya Allah!
Forgive me, my parents and all Muslims and grant us the highest degree in Paradise amiin.You are ar-
Rahman ar-Rahim
By Ahlam Hind Umm Jihad
Surely all praise is for Allah.
We praise Him and seek
His help, we seek His
forgiveness and we seek
refuge in Him from the evil
of our own souls and from
the wickedness of our
deeds. Whoever He guides
shall never to astray and
whomever He allows to
stray,shall never find
guidance.I bear witness
that none has the right to
be worshipped but Allah,
Alone, who has no partner
and I bear witness that
Muhammad is His slave
and His Messenger.May
the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him and
upon his family and his
Companions and upon
those who follow them in
piety until the Day of Judgmen!
........Verily! Allah will not change the ( good ) condition of people as long
as they do not change their
state ( of goodness)
themselves ( by committing
sins and by being
ungrateful) and disobedient
to Allah ) ..( Q 13:11 )
Assalam aleykum wa Rahmatuaallah wa barakatoh!
I hope all of you are more then fine and your is full if lights abd barakah!! And your iman,
taqwa, soul ,heart, family,
friends,jobs and wealth is
always on the highest
degree inshaallah.
And that you had an great
juma'h and weekens with
family and friends.That you
made years out of minutes
and month out of seconds.
Lived the life today without
sorrow, anger and jealousy
and didnt cry over the past
because it will never comes
back and that you enjoyed
your times in prayer,reading Quran, make dawa and
spend it on your family and
friends etc inshaallah .
Alhamduaallah im stil sick,that I'm trying to rest
as much as I can,
inshaallah I will get better.I
didn't feel well alhamduaallah, that I just
wanted
to lay down and get
some hours of sleep.
But I couldn't hold my
thoughts back about some
issue that I heard from an
audio by some shiekh mas7aallah some days
ago and it was Subhan7aallah amazing to hear.
Hmmm what can I say about it!!!?
But Later on I
found that some few things from it was very
important to deliver at once,
to myself and to everyone
who Mas7aallah! Read my
notes etc. May Allah
Sub7an wa ta'ala grant all
of you mercy and make you all strong and brave and
Grant you all the
highest degree in Paradise
for that amiin amiin.
Anyhow!!! This issue that I'm
going to talk about, it's few things that so many of us
ignore or not even relise it.
Yet it's takes us some few
seconds to say it but yet
we don't recognize it's
value and reward and
infront of Allah the reward
of it's more then we could
ever imagine Wa Allah
Alam.
So! It's not important to
memorized every words I'm
writting. But the most
important is how this
knowledge benefits and
effects in our daily life inshaallah.
Because we can memorize,
all the knowledge in the
world! Yet most of it doesn't
benefits us at all Wa Allah Alam!
So the most important is
knowledge that benefits not
that which is memorized.
Look how amazing this is!
Let me give you an exampel how powerful our
toungue is and how
powerful this words we say is!!!!
Have it ever occured you!? When we say
sub7anaallah!!! Angels
moves from it's place!!
And when we going around saying one of the most
beloved words to
Allah: Al7amduaallah!!!!
The Angels open it's wings
and the Angels are 70.000
wings!!
And the Angels open
70.000 wings!!
So think about this!!
When you say Wa
laa'ilaaha ' illallah!!!!!
This Angels begins to fly!!!
And when it says Allah
Akbar!!!
The Angels Dives inside the oceans.
And One of the treasure of
paradise Laa hawla wa laa
quwwata ' ills billah illa
adhim!!!!! When it says:
The Angels comes out of
the water and it flaps it's
wings.
70.000 wings!!!!
70.000 of wings!!!
From every drops,Allah!!!
Creates an Angel and this Angels glorifies The
Allmighty Allah!!!!!
And this Angel keeps
asking Allah! To forgive him
right til the Day of
Judgment.
Yet! It takes not even 2
second to say this words!!!
So!! When its says Laa'
ilaaha 'illallaah Muhammad
Rasoolallah!!!!!
Allah The Most Merciful!!
Has created a pillar next to the Ashr! As soon the servant of Allah quoted this words!!!!
This pillar begins to shake infront of the Allmighty
Allah!!
The Allmighty Allah says to the pillar: Stay firm! Do not
move!!
The pillar says: Ya Allah! How can I stay firm, when the saying of this words have not been forgiven!?
Allah The Allmighty says: Stay firm!! Now the saying
of this words have been forgiving.
According to the Hadith of Tabarani!!!!!!!
One of the words that most beloved words to Allah!! Subhanaallaahi wa
bihamdihi!!!! Would not
even taking 2 seconds.
The Prophet Muhammad ( SAS) said: 125 Deeds!!! Are written in his account!!!!
Subhanaallah wa bihamdihi
and the Angel are written!!!
When a person says: Laa 'ilaaha'illallaahu wahdahu
laa shareeka lahu, Ahad wa-samad, lam yalid, wa
lam yoolad.Wa lam yakun
lahu kufuwan 'ahad!!!!!!
It takes 3-4 second and the Angels!! According to the Hadith of Tabarani!!!!!
Nabi Kareem ( SAS ) said: The Angels have written 2 Miljon Deeds in his account!!!!!!
2 Miljon Deed!!!!!!!
Can you imagine that!!!?
But today you and I,we have no time for small things in life!!!!!!!!
Because! We!!!Are thinking about the Big Things!!!
Big and luxury life style!!!
Yet! It will be this things
that will help us tomoroh on
The Day of Judgment!!!!!??
When this piece of flesh,is use in the negative manner!!!!!
Then your salat will not
help you!!!!!!!
Your fasting will not help you!!!!!!
Your helping others will not help you!!!!!
Your zakat will not help
you!!!!!!
Your Hajj will not help you!!!
Your umrah will not help you!!!!!!
NOTHING WILL HELP YOU!!!!!!!
What are you going to do about it!!??
Are you going to wait til something bad will happend to you!!! And Allah will use you as an exampel for others!!!?
Look around you!! And look down some streets!!!
And you will see and find that this the way many of
us speaking!!!
Five of out of ten words, will be a SWEAR!!!!!!!
And it's not even consider a sin and makes them feel
hard!!! Superious!!!!Cool!!!
But we will regret but then it's to late!!!!!!
We!!! Are taking faults!!!
Are making fun!!! We are criticizing!!!!
And because we are never
on the receiving end!!!
We don't relise!!!!!!
How could this day
passing!!!!!!!??
No Barakah, what's so
ever!!!!!
No blessings!!!!!!
What's ever left in TIME!!!
How years pass in our lives!!!!!!!
YET WHAT WE ACHIEVED!!!!!!!!?
EVERYONE OF US IS
TOXICTED WITH THE
LOOK Of DUNJA!!!!!!!!
AND EVERYONE OF US LIVING IN THIS WORLD BELIEVING THAT WE ARE
NOT GOING TO GO!!!!!!!!
BUT WE WILL!!!!!
Which is the Deeds that the Allmighty looks most of All!!!!!???
Which is the deeds that pleases Allah The Allmighty!!!!!!?
....To offer the prayers at their early stated fixed times!!!!!!!!
To be good to your parents!!!!!!
To participat in Jihad!!!!!!
A tougue that praises Allah often!!!!!!
Use your toungue for good deeds otherwise be quite!!! You will be asked every words you say that could be for you or against you!!!
Their is a sign in ourselves!!!
Just open your eyes and Look at us!!!!!
Every lim is perfect!!
Look at the heart that Allah subhan wa ta'ala has given us!!!
Small organs!!!
Yet it!! Pumps!!! And
beats!! 100 000 times in one day without even we relise it!!!
Do you relist it now or you will stil remain ignorant!!!?
And the blood!!
The heart pumps into the body 60 000 miles journey and the lung that Allah has given us we breathe in 2 miljon liter of air everyday without even relise that we
breathe this air!!!!!!
Stil we remain ungrateful!!!
The eyes that Allah have given us we can see the sunset's glow and at same times it can catch miljon
diffrent colours and it can take more information then
any great telescope!!!!!
And look at our ears!!! That Allah have blessed us with!!! So we would hear
what we would know at same times it can catch diffrent sounds!!!!
Have you ever thought about it!!!!
And just look at the brain that Allah have blessed us with!!!
It's small but yet it's more complex then many things
we could ever imagine!!!!
Look at you!!! The world is
yours!!! Allah have blessed
you with legs and feet to take you where you want to go!!!!!
Then which of the blessings of your Lord will you both [ Jinn and men ] deny? ( Q 55:13 )...!!!!!?
So would you sell your ability to hear and see for the weight of Mount Uhud
in gold!!!!!??
Or your ability to speak for
huge castles!!!!!?
Look at us!! We are blessed
with all of this things,yet
we are so ungrateful and use it in a negative manner!!!?
We have been given abundant favours!!!!!!
Yet we feign ignorance!!!!
We think about what we do
not have and are ungrateful for what we have been given!!!!!
Think about it and look around you!!! You stil feel that you have a poor life!!'!!!???
Subhanaallah Allahumna wa bihamdihi,Ash-hadu 'an laa 'ilaaha illaa Anta
Astaqfiruaallah wa'atoobu 'ilayka.( Glory is to You, Oh Allah, and praise is to You. I bear witness that there is none worthy worship but You. I seek Your forgiveness and repent to
You).
Ya Allah! If I did right, reward me when coming to You.But if I did it wrong it
was because of my bad soul and shaytan. Ya Allah!
Forgive me, my parents and all Muslims and grant us the highest degree in Paradise amiin.You are ar-
Rahman ar-Rahim
By Ahlam Hind Umm Jihad
The strong among you is deemed weak by me until...
A'oothu billaahi minash-Shaytaani-Rajeem.Bi
smiAllah ar-Rahman ar-Rahim.Alhamdu-lillahi Rabbil-'Aalamin,ar-Rahman ar-Rahim Maliki Jawmid-Din.
Surely all praise is for Allah. We praise Him and seek His help. We seek His
forgiveness and we seek
refuge in Him from the evil
of our own souls and from
the wickedness of our own
deeds. Whomever He
guides shall never go
astray and whomever He
allows to stray shall never
find guidance. I bear
witness that Muhammad
Hid slave and Messenger.
May the peace and
blessings of Allah be upon
him and upon those who
follow them in piety until
the Day of Judgment.
Allah says: ( whoever works
righteousness whether
male or female while he (
or she ) is true believer
verily to him we will give a
good portion life, and we
shall pay them certainly a
reward on proportion to the
best what they used to do (
Q 16:97 )
Assalam aleykum wa rahmatuaallah wa barakatoh,
Today I want to remind myself and my sisters and brothers in din two things
inshaallah: Engage in
beneficial actions and to
remind us of the khilafah
acceptance speech of Abu
Bakr siddiq ( Rd ).
Alhamduallah lillaahi alaa kulli haal life goes upside and downs, but because of that we shouldn't give in to
despair; do not worry and
never doubt that Allah will
give us solution. We should
think well of Allah and put
our trust in Allah only and
seek His help in patience
because with patience
comes victory. At same
time we should occupy
ourselves with beneficial
deeds and endeavour to
achive them. So don't
engage your thoughts and
mind in harmful things,
which causes sadness and
depression. You should
keep in mind that your time
is precious, so you should
not waste it in useless
things. You should dedicate
your time and thoughts to
all that carries benefit.So
Do not fear what you have
to go through to achieve
your goals in life for the
sake of Allah. Be optimistic for Allah is with you and the
Angels ( aleyhi wa Salam )
are praying for forgiveness
for you and Paradise awaits
you. Wipe away your tears
and think well of our Lord
and chase away your worries by
remembering And praising Allah and keep yourself
busy and think of the
blessings that Allah had
bestowed upon you, your
family, friends etc.
Remember and think that this world is ever perfect for anyone it's only exist in Paradise. So no one on the
face of the earth who gets
all that he wants or is free
from all kinds of distress.So don't feel sad of something you don't have, the world is yours you can breath and have eyes to see alhamduaallah smile and be happy !!!!!
Allah says: And certainly,We shall test you with something of fear,
hunger,loss of wealth, lives
and fruits but give glad
tidings to As sabirun ( the
patience ).
So have sabr ( patience )!!!
And I want to end this by the speech of Abu baker Siddiq ( Rd ):
To proceed: O people! I have indeed appointed over you,though I am not the best among you.
If I do well, then help me and d if I act wrongly, then
correct me.
Truthfulness with fulfilling trust and lying in
tantamount to treachery.
The weak among you is
deemed strong by me until
I return to them that which
is rightfully theirs inshaallah.
And the strong among you is weak by me until I take
from them what is rightfully( somone else's ) inshaallah.
No group of people
Abandons Jihad in the path
of Allah, except that Allah
Allah makes them suffer
Humiliation.
And wickedness does not become widespread among
a people except that Allah
inflicts them widespread
calamity.
And if I disobey Allah and His Messenger, then I have no right to your obedience....
This speech alone is a reasons enough we need to return to Islam!!!!
May Allah make this speech be a standard we use to judge our governents as well as those running
them and make it inspiration for us to return to the Islamic Goverment of justice, honesty and righteousness that Allah
prescribed for us: The
Khilafah amiin
So inshaallah have strong faith that nothing is impossible!
.....Do not despair of the mercy of Allah.....( Q 39:53
)
Subhaanaka Allahumma as bihamdika ashadu an laa ilaaha illaa Anta astaqfiruha as atiibu ilayka. ( Glory is to you, O Allah, and praise is
to you. I bear witness that
there is none worthy if
worship but you. I seek
Your forgiveness and
repent to You.
Surely all praise is for Allah. We praise Him and seek His help. We seek His
forgiveness and we seek
refuge in Him from the evil
of our own souls and from
the wickedness of our own
deeds. Whomever He
guides shall never go
astray and whomever He
allows to stray shall never
find guidance. I bear
witness that Muhammad
Hid slave and Messenger.
May the peace and
blessings of Allah be upon
him and upon those who
follow them in piety until
the Day of Judgment.
Allah says: ( whoever works
righteousness whether
male or female while he (
or she ) is true believer
verily to him we will give a
good portion life, and we
shall pay them certainly a
reward on proportion to the
best what they used to do (
Q 16:97 )
Assalam aleykum wa rahmatuaallah wa barakatoh,
Today I want to remind myself and my sisters and brothers in din two things
inshaallah: Engage in
beneficial actions and to
remind us of the khilafah
acceptance speech of Abu
Bakr siddiq ( Rd ).
Alhamduallah lillaahi alaa kulli haal life goes upside and downs, but because of that we shouldn't give in to
despair; do not worry and
never doubt that Allah will
give us solution. We should
think well of Allah and put
our trust in Allah only and
seek His help in patience
because with patience
comes victory. At same
time we should occupy
ourselves with beneficial
deeds and endeavour to
achive them. So don't
engage your thoughts and
mind in harmful things,
which causes sadness and
depression. You should
keep in mind that your time
is precious, so you should
not waste it in useless
things. You should dedicate
your time and thoughts to
all that carries benefit.So
Do not fear what you have
to go through to achieve
your goals in life for the
sake of Allah. Be optimistic for Allah is with you and the
Angels ( aleyhi wa Salam )
are praying for forgiveness
for you and Paradise awaits
you. Wipe away your tears
and think well of our Lord
and chase away your worries by
remembering And praising Allah and keep yourself
busy and think of the
blessings that Allah had
bestowed upon you, your
family, friends etc.
Remember and think that this world is ever perfect for anyone it's only exist in Paradise. So no one on the
face of the earth who gets
all that he wants or is free
from all kinds of distress.So don't feel sad of something you don't have, the world is yours you can breath and have eyes to see alhamduaallah smile and be happy !!!!!
Allah says: And certainly,We shall test you with something of fear,
hunger,loss of wealth, lives
and fruits but give glad
tidings to As sabirun ( the
patience ).
So have sabr ( patience )!!!
And I want to end this by the speech of Abu baker Siddiq ( Rd ):
To proceed: O people! I have indeed appointed over you,though I am not the best among you.
If I do well, then help me and d if I act wrongly, then
correct me.
Truthfulness with fulfilling trust and lying in
tantamount to treachery.
The weak among you is
deemed strong by me until
I return to them that which
is rightfully theirs inshaallah.
And the strong among you is weak by me until I take
from them what is rightfully( somone else's ) inshaallah.
No group of people
Abandons Jihad in the path
of Allah, except that Allah
Allah makes them suffer
Humiliation.
And wickedness does not become widespread among
a people except that Allah
inflicts them widespread
calamity.
And if I disobey Allah and His Messenger, then I have no right to your obedience....
This speech alone is a reasons enough we need to return to Islam!!!!
May Allah make this speech be a standard we use to judge our governents as well as those running
them and make it inspiration for us to return to the Islamic Goverment of justice, honesty and righteousness that Allah
prescribed for us: The
Khilafah amiin
So inshaallah have strong faith that nothing is impossible!
.....Do not despair of the mercy of Allah.....( Q 39:53
)
Subhaanaka Allahumma as bihamdika ashadu an laa ilaaha illaa Anta astaqfiruha as atiibu ilayka. ( Glory is to you, O Allah, and praise is
to you. I bear witness that
there is none worthy if
worship but you. I seek
Your forgiveness and
repent to You.
44 Ways of Supporting Jihad
Jihad is the greatest deed in Islam and the salvation of the ummah is in practicing it. In times like these, when Muslim lands are occupied by the kuffar, when the jails of tyrants are full of Muslim POWs, when the rule of the law of Allah is absent from this world and when Islam is being attacked in order to uproot it, Jihad becomes obligatory on every Muslim. Jihad must be practiced by the child even if the parents refuse, by the wife even if the husband objects and by the one indebt even if the lender disagrees.
Dear brothers and sisters the issue is urgent since today our enemy is neither a nation nor a race. It is a system of kufr with global reach. The kuffar today are conspiring against us like never before. So could we be heading towards the great battle between the Romans and the Muslims - Al Malhamah - which the Prophet (saaws) spoke about?
Again, the point needs to be stressed: Jihad today is obligatory on every capable Muslim. So as a Muslim who wants to please Allah it is your duty to find ways to practice it and support it. Following are 44 ways for the brothers and sisters to support Jihad fi sabeelillah:
1. Having the right intention
You must make the intentions of joining the ranks of the mujahideen. The Messenger of Allah says: “Whoever dies and has not fought or intended to fight has died on a branch of hypocrisy” (Related by Muslim)
A sign that an intention of a person is true is whether they are preparing for Jihad or not. Allah says: “And if they had intended to go forth, they would have prepared for it” (9:46).
The conditions for Jihad al Dafi’ (the defensive Jihad) are five as stated by scholars such as Abu Qudamah: Islam, puberty, sanity, financial ability, and to be free of physical disabilities. If a person lacks the financial ability and doesn’t find anyone to finance him or suffers from an illness or a disability that excuses him from Jihad then a sign of the true intention of such a person is that he is sad that he is exempted from Jihad. Allah says about the ones who could not afford the expenses of joining in the battle of Tabuk: “Nor [is there blame] upon the those who, when they came to you that you might give them mounts, you said, “I can find nothing for you to ride upon.” They turned back while there eyes overflowed with tears out of grief that they could not find something to spend [for the cause of Allah]” (9-92)
2. Praying to Allah to award you with martyrdom
The Messenger (saaws) says: “Whoever sincerely asks Allah to award him with martyrdom would be given the rewards of martyrs even if he dies on his bed” (Related by Muslim)
Asking Allah to die as a shaheed pleases Allah because it shows him that you are willing to give your life for him. But you need to be careful not to be merely paying lip service. A person who truly asks for shahadah would respond to the call of Jihad whenever he hears it and would eagerly search for death in the path of Allah.
The reason why the enemies of Allah succeeded in defeating some Muslims and taking over their land is because they have lost their love for martyrdom. The Messenger of Allah (saaws) says: "Nations will attack you like a group of people eating from a plate. The sahabah said: “Is that because we will be few in numbers?” He said: “No, you will be numerous but you will be like the foam of the sea, and Allah will take away from the hearts of your enemies the fear from you and Allah will cast in your hearts “wahan”” They said: “What is “wahan” O Messenger of Allah?” He said: “The love of this world and the hatred of death” (Related by Abu Dawud).
Our culture of martyrdom needs to be revived because the enemy of Allah fears nothing more than our love of death.
3. Jihad with your wealth
The financial Jihad has preceded the physical Jihad in every verse except one. This is to point out to us the importance of the Jihad of wealth because Jihad depends on it. In other words, no money no Jihad, and Jihad needs lots of it. That is why according to Al Qurtubi in his tafseer he states that the reward for money given as Sadaqah is multiplied by ten, but the reward for money spent in Jihad is multiplied by 700!
Allah says: “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills” (2:261)
Probably the most important contribution the Muslims of the West could do for Jihad is making Jihad with their wealth since in many cases the mujahideen are in need of money more than they are in need of men. As Sheikh Abdullah Azzam puts it: “Men are in need of Jihad and Jihad is in need of money”
4. Fundraising for the mujahideen
In addition to paying from your own money you should also encourage others to do the same. Rasulullah says: “The one who guides others towards a good deed would receive rewards equal to those who practice it.” By fundraising for the mujahideen you are also fulfilling a sunnah of Rasulullah (saaws) which he would often practice before going out for a battle.
5. Financing a Mujahid
Rasulullah (saaws) says: “Whoever sponsors a fighter in the cause of Allah has fought” (Majma’ al Zawa’id)
This includes all the expenses of the mujahid including his travel expenses. This gives a chance for the rich and the poor to receive the rewards of Jihad, the poor by fighting and the rich by sponsoring them.
6. Taking care of the family of a Mujahid
Taking care of the family of the mujahid could be by protecting them, tending to their needs, providing them with financial assistance and protecting their honor.
The Messenger of Allah (saaws) says:
• Anyone of you who takes care of the family and wealth of a mujahid will receive half the reward of the mujahid (Muslim)
• The duty towards protecting the honor of the wives of the mujahideen on the ones who stay behind is like their duty towards protecting the honor of their mothers. If a person who stays behind promises to take care of the wife of a mujahid but then betrays him, on the Day of Judgment the mujahid will be told that this man betrayed you so take whatever you want from his good deeds. So he will take whatever he likes. (Muslim)
• Whoever does not fight, sponsor a fighter, or take care of the family of a fighter, will be afflicted with a disaster before he dies. (Abu Dawud)
If a person fears for the safety of his family, Shaytan can take advantage of that and prevent that person from going to Jihad. Even if such a person disobeys Shaytan and does go to Jihad, Shaytan can come to him and weaken his heart by whispering to him about the loved ones he left behind. Therefore, taking care of the families of the mujahideen would help their morale and that is why Islam devoted this attention to taking care of the family and wealth of the mujahideen.
7. Sponsoring the family of a shaheed
The shaheed has fought for Islam and Muslims. He gave up his life for me and you. Therefore the families of the shaheeds need to be honored and served.
When Ja'far bin Abi Talib was killed in the battle of Mu’tah, the Messenger of Allah (saaws) told his wives: “Prepare food for the family of Ja’far because they are preoccupied with their affair” and he visited Ja’far’s house. (Related by Abu Dawud and al-Tirmithi). Imam Ahmad narrates that when the Messenger of Allah received the news of the martyrdom of Ja’far he visited his house and asked Ja’far’s wife to bring the children. When they came to him he hugged them and kissed them while his eyes were shedding tears. Asma – the wife of Ja’far – said: “I asked the Messenger of Allah (saaws) if something has happened” He said: “Yes, Ja’far was killed today” Asma said: “When I heard that I started crying and screaming. Then the Messenger of Allah (saaws) left and told his wives: “Don’t forget to prepare food for the family of Ja’far because their affair has overwhelmed them””
The children of the shaheed need to find in the men of the ummah the care of their father. The wife of the shaheed should be given the opportunity of remarrying if she has the desire to. This requires two cultural changes.
First: The Muslim society needs to change its negative view regarding the divorced and widowed woman. Unfortunately, today men avoid women who are divorcees or widows. This stigma attached to our divorced and widowed sisters needs to be overcome.
Second: The Muslim society today is very intolerant towards polygamy - which becomes a social necessity especially in times of war. So isn’t it unfair to deprive millions of Muslim sisters from the blessings of marriage?
No woman in the time of the sahabah was left without a husband - a partner who would take care of her psychological, physical and financial needs.
When Ja’far died Abu Bakr married his wife and took care of her children.
8. Sponsoring the families of the prisoners of war
Taking care of the family of a prisoner is equal in reward to taking care of the family of a mujahid. It is extremely important for such a practice to become the norm so that in the future when our brothers go out in the path of Allah they would know that if they die or if they are captured their families would be taken care of.
9. Paying your zakah to the mujahideen
The distribution of zakah is restricted to eight categories: “Zakah expenditures are only for the poor and for the needy and for those employed to collect [Zakah] and for bringing hearts together [for Islam] and for freeing captives [or slaves] and for those in debt and for the cause of Allah and for the [stranded] traveler” (9:60)
In the cause of Allah “fi sabeelillah” refers to the mujahideen. The Maliki jurist Abu Bakr bin al Arabi states: “Malik says: “The causes of Allah are many, but there is no difference of opinion that “in the cause of Allah” here (in the verse) refers to fighting”
Imam al Nawawi states in al Minhaaj when talking about the spending of zakah: “The fighter in the path of Allah is given what he needs to cover his expenses and the expenses of his family from the time he leaves until the time he comes back, even if he is absent for a long time”
Today not a lot of people pay their zakah to the mujahideen. But if Muslims would rid themselves from the whispering of Shaytan they would come to realize that the best way to spend their zakah nowadays is by giving it to the mujahideen because the Messenger of Allah (saaws) says: “Charity cannot be given to a wealthy person except in five situations” The Messenger of Allah (saaws) listed one of them as: “The fighter in the cause of Allah” (Related by Abu Dawud). Now if zakah can be paid to the mujahideen even if they are rich what about when the mujahideen of today fulfill four out of the eight categories of zakah: They are poor, they are in need, they are wayfarers and they are the ones in the cause of Allah!
So pay your zakah to the mujahideen and encourage others to do the same.
10. Contributing to the medical needs of the mujahideen
The mujahideen are in great need of any medical assistance they can get. They need physicians, they need hospitals and clinics that would open their doors to them and they need medicine. There are hundreds of thousands of Muslim physicians and nevertheless we hear many stories of injured mujahideen who suffered from simple wounds but because of the absence of medical help they had to suffer in agony until they died. Those Muslims who studied medicine and claim that they are doing it for the sake of Allah and to benefit the Muslims, we say to them: Where are you?
It is said that Khattaab - the great Muslim commander in Chechnya - was injured in a battle and his brothers found no Muslim doctor to take care of him so they had to take him to the Red Cross and have them treat him under gun point!
Muslim health care workers have a great responsibility and their contribution to Jihad is indispensable. In fact their rewards could be even greater than those of the fighters.
11. Providing Moral support and encouragement for the mujahideen
When the mujahideen hear Imams making dua for them, scholars giving fatwas supporting them and the Muslim masses praising them, this boosts their moral and gives them the strength to carry on. However, we find that many Muslims betray their brothers by speaking against them. We see scholars issuing fatwas in support of the apostate governments in their fight against the mujahideen. One should not underestimate the detrimental effect such betrayal has on the mujahideen.
12. Defending the mujahideen and standing up for them
The Messenger of Allah (saaws) says: “Whoever protects the reputation of his brother, Allah will protect his face from Hell Fire on the Day of Judgment” (Related by al Tirmithi)
He also says: “Any person who betrays a Muslim whose sanctity is being violated and reputation is being dishonored, Allah will betray him when he is in need of help and any person who protects a Muslim whose sanctity is being violated and reputation is being dishonored, Allah will assist him when he is in need of help” (Related by Abu Dawud)
It is therefore our Islamic duty to stand up for the ones who are defending us and our religion. As a rule of thumb, we should never side by word or deed against our brothers in Islam especially the ones who have given up their lives for Islam and we should never side by word or deed with the disbelievers who are the enemies of our most beloved, Allah subhanahu wa ta’aala. And if one cannot speak the truth then at least they should remain silent.
13. Fighting the lies of the Western Media
The perceptions of many Muslims are formed by the Western media. Allah says: “O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one (fasiq) with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful” (49:6)
So what about when the news is coming from a kafir rather than a fasiq?!
The danger of the Western media stems from the fact that it puts on the cloak of truth and objectivity when in reality it is no more than the mouthpiece of the devil.
Can’t you see that the Western media is constantly trying to underplay the atrocities committed by the West while exaggerating the violations – which are few and far in between - committed by Muslims? Can’t you see how the Western media succeeded in presenting the awlyaa’ (friends) of Allah, the ones who are fighting in His cause, as the followers of evil, while it presents the Pharaoh of this day and his armies as the army of good?
The Western media is so good in its deception that its lies pass on a wide section of the Muslim ummah. The fact is that this media demonizes the mujahideen, spreads lies about them, blows out of proportion their mistakes, tries to sow the seeds of disunity amongst them, attempts to ruin the reputations of their leaders, and ignores or demonizes the scholars of truth when on the other hand, it glorifies and promotes the scholars of falsehood.
So my dear brothers and sisters part of your duty is to campaign amongst Muslims to raise their awareness regarding this issue. You should encourage them to be careful and critical of the Western media. A Muslim should not believe Western sources unless they are confirmed by a trustworthy Muslim one. I say a “trustworthy” Muslim source because the verse was warning us from accepting the news of a disobeying Muslim. Now that is not to say that we should not believe the media in anything it says even in its weather forecasts! No, what we are saying is that you should not believe what they say about Islam and Muslims. A media source that could otherwise be very objective and truthful could become a fabricator when it comes to covering news on Muslims. That is how the disbelievers dealt with Muslims since the dawn of history…and there is no reason for us to believe why that would change.
14. Exposing the hypocrites
The hypocrites represented a great danger to the Muslim community during the time of the Prophet, and they still do. The Messenger of Allah would fight them by exposing their lies. If the battle with the kuffar was primarily a battle of swords, the battle against the hypocrites was primarily a battle of words. Since the hypocrites hide behind the cloak of religion to spread their poisonous ideas, the way to fight them is by revealing the truth and exposing their lies. Your weapon against them is Quran and Sunnah.
Some of these hypocrites could be very charismatic. They could appear to be very impressive, but they are fake. Allah says: “And when you see them, their forms please you, and if they speak, you listen to their speech. They are as if they were pieces of wood propped up – they think that every shout is against them. They are the enemy, so beware of them. May Allah destroy them; how are they deluded?” (63:4) The fake scholars and deviant ideologies need to be exposed for what they are.
15. Encouraging others to fight Jihad
Inviting others to do good is an encouraged act of worship since it falls under enjoining good and forbidding evil. In addition to that, encouraging others to participate in Jihad was an act of worship we were specifically asked to do.
Allah says: “O Prophet, urge the believers to battle.” (8:65) and He says: “So fight, [O Muhammad], in the cause of Allah; you are not held responsible except for yourself. And encourage the believers [to join you] that perhaps Allah will restrain the might of those who disbelieve. And Allah is greater in might and stronger in [exemplary] punishment.” (4:84)
16. Protecting the mujahideen and preserving their secrets
We need to guard our tongues. Sometimes you could end up endangering your brothers unwillingly by your words. A Muslim should develop the habit of being able to keep secrets. We have an incident from seerah where a sahabi refused to tell his own wife about a secret mentioned to him by the Messenger of Allah. Sometimes you want to protect the secrets from the closest people to you: your wife, parents, children and brothers, because they might be the most vulnerable. A Muslim should learn to not say more than what needs to be said, to work on a “need to know basis”. A lot of Jihad work is secret and clandestine by nature. Therefore, brothers and sisters should be very careful with their words. A lot of harm was inflicted on Jihad work because of otherwise good and sincere brothers who had loose tongues.
The enemies of Allah will try to recruit Muslims to infiltrate Islamic work. They will tell them that we are doing this to protect the Muslims. They may carry along with them scholars who would approve that. Part of your role in protecting the mujahideen is by warning the Muslim community that spying on a Muslim for a non-Muslim is nothing less than kufr.
Allah says: “And whoever is an ally of them among you – then indeed, he is one of them.” (5:51)
17. Praying for the mujahideen
Never underestimate the power of a sincere dua’.
The Messenger of Allah (saaws) says: “This ummah is given victory through the weak among them, through their dua’, prayers and sincerity”. Make dua for them in your sujood since that is when you are closest to Allah.
An important form of dua that needs to be performed is dua al Qunoot in salah. Encourage Imams to perform it when things get tough on the mujahideen. This is the Sunnah of Rasulullah.
Prior to one of the battles, the leader of the Muslim army asked his soldiers to see what Muhammad bin Wasi' (one of the great worshipers of the early Muslims) was doing. They came back saying that we saw him raising his finger and making dua. The leader of the army said: “That finger making dua to Allah is more beloved to me than a thousand men!”
18. Following the news of Jihad and spreading it
Following the news of Jihad and the mujahideen is important because
• It keeps your attachment to Jihad alive.
• It strengthens your belongingness to the ummah.
• It encourages you to join Jihad when you see the heroic acts of the mujahideen. It kindles your desire for martyrdom when you see the courage of martyrs.
• Those who follow the news of the mujahideen will see how Allah is protecting his servants and guiding them towards victory. They will see how the ummah is heading towards the era of Islam under the leadership of: “al Ta’ifah al Mansoorah” mentioned in the hadiths of Rasulullah (saaws).
• Reading history or Fiqh books on Jihad provides you with the theory. Following the news of the mujahideen provides you with practical examples of how our brothers are applying the theory in today’s world. It provides you with something tangible, something real.
• The news of Jihad is the news of the conflict between good and evil which has existed since the time of Adam and will continue until the end of time. Following the developments of this conflict brings Quran into light. When you read Quran with this awareness you would have a more engaged relationship with the book of Allah than a person who is living in the seclusion of his ivory tower. This engagement with the book of Allah reaches its height when you yourself are engaged in this conflict by joining the ranks of the mujahideen.
I need to repeat what I mentioned in point 13 that you should only spread authentic information from authentic sources. Because spreading rumors is an attribute of the hypocrites: Allah says: “And when there comes to them something [information] about public security or fear, they spread it around. But if they had referred it back to the Messenger or to those of authority among them, then the ones who [can] draw correct conclusions from it would have known about it.” (4:83)
19. Spreading the writings of the mujahideen and their scholars
Unfortunately we hear some Muslims claiming that the mujahideen lack scholars who support them and they lack a clear strategy and that what the mujahideen are doing is spontaneous and reactionary. Such claims are the furthest from the truth. There are plenty of scholars and strategic thinkers who are supporters of Jihad today. The problem is that because they are on the true path most of them are killed, jailed or forced to go underground. Nevertheless there is still an abundance of material supporting Jihad work and offering strategies for it.
In fact the writings of the scholars of Jihad tend to be the most deeply rooted in sharia because they speak it out as it is, which means they do not need to get involved in ignoring any sharia evidence, twisting sharia texts, and searching for odd opinions as some others may do. The scholars of the mujahideen made it clear that they fear no one but Allah and are willing to displease anyone if that pleases him. They refer to Quran and hadith and quote the scholars of the ummah such as Ibn Hajar, al Nawawi, al Qurtubi, ibn Kathir, ibn Taymiyyah, and the four Imams. They have nothing to hide or conceal. This makes their works the most clear and the most convincing. To counter the fact that no publishers or media outlets are willing to risk sponsoring their works, it falls upon the mujahideen and their sympathizers to do that work. It is therefore our responsibility to spread their knowledge. Some ways in which you could contribute:
• Handing out books and pamphlets to your friends and family.
• Posting material online
• Setting up websites that publish such works
• Guiding others towards such websites.
• Email lists
• Placing such information in masjids
• Distributing such material in gatherings
• Holding private circles in which these writings are studied
20. The issuance of fatwas supporting the mujahideen
There are scholars who are willing to speak out the truth. Such scholars should be encouraged to do so and brothers should support these scholars and let them know that they would stand by them. The fatwas of these scholars should be widely distributed to the masses. There are many young brothers and sisters who agree with the methodology of the mujahideen but they are not willing to fully embrace it until they see scholars approving this methodology. At the end of the day the masses are followers and they would like to see scholars guiding them.
21. Providing the scholars and Imams with information and news about the mujahideen
Just because a person is a scholar doesn’t mean he knows everything. In fact there is a tendency for people who are specialists in a particular field to ignore, and thus become ignorant, of other fields. Scholars and Imams need to be provided with good material. In my conversations with many scholars – some of whom are on a world class level – I was amazed at their lack of knowledge regarding the mujahideen. They lack information on where the mujahideen stand on issues, their publications and their news. The enemies of Islam know the influence that Muslim scholars have on the ummah. Therefore they give scholars special attention. The enemies of Islam would love to see our scholars debating and fighting over trivial issues in order to divert their attention from the real issues that are facing the ummah.
What the brothers and sisters alike can do is to influence the scholars, because by influencing the views of one scholar you could change the views of thousands of Muslims. Provide the scholar with carefully chosen material to read. In the beginning you should give them concise material. Remember scholars tend to be very busy and have a lot of material on their table to read so you need to follow up with them on whether they read what you gave them or not. Discuss with them issues covered in what they read, and discuss it with them as a student and not as an opponent. Avoid confronting them with controversial questions because their fear or cautiousness could cause them to give you a watered down opinion which they might not sincerely believe in and then try to stand by it and defend it just because they said it. Suggest to Imams issues to discuss in Friday khutbahs and provide them with information that could be used in the khutbahs.
22. Physical fitness
The Messenger of Allah (saaws) says: “The strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer and there is good in both” (Related by Muslim)
Physical fitness is part of the preparation for Jihad. What Jihad needs is not body builders. What Jihad needs is mujahideen who have the ability to walk for long hours, to run for long distances (important for guerrilla warfare), to sprint (important for urban warfare), and to climb mountains. The mujahid needs to be able to perform all of the afore-mentioned while carrying a weight. In Jihad lands such as Bosnia and Chechnya unfit brothers represented a burden on the mujahideen because they would slow down the whole group. Also the unfit can more easily fall in the hands of the enemy. So endurance exercises should take precedence over exercise for strength and flexibility.
Even if a Muslim is not going to fight, physical fitness is still important. For example, a fit person can withstand prison and torture more than a person who is not.
The early Muslims were fit since they led a military lifestyle. The companion Amr bin al Aas who opened Egypt in the time of Umar and was appointed as its governor used to say in Jumu’ah khutbah: “I don’t want to see any one of you gaining weight while your horse is losing weight. If I see that I will reduce your salaries accordingly”
So dear brothers, exercising with the right intention is an act of worship. Our sisters are not exempt from this. They also need to be fit and the Muslim community needs to work out halal alternatives for the sisters to exercise.
23. Arms training
Preparing for Jihad is obligatory since Jihad today is obligatory and the sharia rule states that: “Whatever is needed for an obligatory act becomes obligatory”
Arms training is an essential part of preparation for Jihad.
Allah says: “And prepare against them whatever you are able of power and of steeds of war by which you may terrify the enemy of Allah and your enemy and others besides them whom you don’t know but Allah knows” (8:60) The Messenger of Allah (saaws) said regarding this verse: “Power is marksmanship, power is marksmanship” (Related by Muslim)
The issue is so critical that if arms training is not possible in your country then it is worth the time and money to travel to another country to train if you can.
24. First aid training
In many situations the mujahideen have no access to hospitals. In such situations first aid becomes the only available option. In addition to first aid brothers and sisters need to get any medical training that would be relevant to the tough conditions of Jihad. This needs to be determined by brothers and sisters who are in the medical field in coordination with brothers who have an experience in Jihad.
25. Learning the fiqh of Jihad
Learning the fiqh of Jihad includes the fatwas of scholars regarding the issues that face the mujahideen today such as the ruling of Jihad today, rulings of dar-ul-Harb, the issue of civilians and collateral damage, the issue of the covenant of security with non-Muslim governments, fighting in the absence of an Imam, and the ruling on present governments in the Muslim world. It is equally important to study the virtues of Jihad. One also needs to study the writings of scholars and thinkers who are charting out the course for today’s Jihad.
26. Protecting the mujahideen and supporting them:
Allah says: ”Indeed, those who have believed and emigrated and fought with their wealth and lives in the cause of Allah, and those who gave shelter and aided – they are allies of one another.” (8:72)
And He says: “But those who have believed and emigrated and fought in the cause of Allah and those who gave shelter and aided – It is they who are the believers, truly. For them is forgiveness and noble provision.” (8:74)
When the mujahideen are in danger we need to offer them with protection. It is true that such a protection could be very costly but this is a sacrifice that we are offering for the sake of Allah. The Taliban paid the price for offering a safe haven for the foreign mujahideen: They lost their government. But that is not a defeat but a victory because in the eyes of Allah you have won, no matter what the worldly costs are, if you have held on firmly to your religion, and you have lost, no matter what the worldly gains are, if you have wavered in your religion.
We should open our houses for the mujahideen among us and we should offer them with the support they need. Isn’t that precisely what awarded the Ansar the high status they have achieved?
27. Developing the Aqeedah of Walaa’ and Baraa’
The issue of loyalty towards Allah, His Messenger and the believers and the declaration of our animosity towards the disbelievers and their gods has not had its fair share of attention in Islamic circles. Allah says: “There has already been for you an excellent example in Ibrahim and those with him, when they said to their people, “Indeed, we are disassociated from you and from whatever you worship other than Allah. We have denied you, and there has appeared between us and you animosity and hatred forever until you believe in Allah alone” (60:5)
Allah described the ones who fight in his path as being “Humble towards the believers, powerful against the disbelievers” (5:54). The mujahid should have a clear understanding of what it means to be loyal to Allah, His Messenger and the believers and declaring animosity towards the disbelievers. Ibn Taymiyyah states that: “You need to love the believer even if he wrongs you or oppresses you, and you need to dislike the disbeliever even if he is kind to you”.
The hatred of kuffar is a central element of our military creed. We need to realize that Allah will not grant us victory as long as we still have some love towards his enemies in our hearts. The spiritual condition of total loyalty towards Allah and total animosity towards his enemies was a necessary precursor to the judgment of Allah between His prophets and their disbelieving nations. Never was victory attained by the Prophets of Allah and their people until their loyalty towards Allah was complete and their disassociation with the kuffar was complete.
28. Fulfilling our responsibilities towards the Muslim POW
Rasulullah (saaws) says: “And free the prisoner” (al Bukhari). Our scholars say that it is a duty on Muslims to free the POWs even if they have to expend all their money. Many mujahideen are forgotten, lingering in prison cells in every continent around the world. Not even the islands of the sea are spared. We need to raise the awareness of the ummah regarding their issue, keep them in our dua and fight for their release.
29. WWW Jihad
The internet has become a great medium for spreading the call of Jihad and following the news of the mujahideen. Some ways in which the brothers and sisters could be “internet mujahideen” is by contributing in one or more of the following ways:
• Establishing discussion forums that offer a free, uncensored medium for posting information relating to Jihad.
• Establishing email lists to share information with interested brothers and sisters.
• Posting or emailing Jihad literature and news.
• Setting up websites to cover specific areas of Jihad, such as: mujahideen news, Muslim POWs, and Jihad literature.
30. Raising our children on the love of Jihad and the mujahideen
Our children need to be raised up with the love of Jihad and the mujahideen. The stories we narrate to them need to stem from our rich Jihad history. We should have them grow up with Ali bin Abi Talib, Khalid bin al Waleed, Abu Ubaidah, Sad bin Abi Waqqas, Muhammad al Fatih, Muhammad bin al Qasim and Salahudin. Their role models should be the heroes of today’s Jihad. On the other hand they should learn to despise Pharaoh, Qaroon, and Abu Jahl as well as today’s Pharaohs, Qaroons and Abu Jahls.
Our children should not be taught to “stay away from trouble and be a good boy” but to “do the right thing even if it’s going to get you in trouble”. They need to be taught to be proactive rather than passive. Al Zubair bin al Awam – one of the ten given the glad tidings of Paradise – used to take with him to the battlefield his son Abdullah when he was still a child. But since Abdullah was still a child and therefore couldn’t fight, his father would have him carry a small knife and go around the battlefield searching for injured disbelievers in order to finish them off. Abdullah then grew up to become one of the great fighters of this ummah.
Even though the physical Jihad is primarily within the men’s domain, our sister still needs to live the “life of a mujahid” which her husband lives. She needs to be supportive of him if he goes for Jihad, content if he is a shaheed and patient if he is taken as a POW. A mujahid sister would be like the women of al Ansar. They saw that Islam was taking away their fathers, brothers, husbands and sons and they were still welcoming the muhajireen and opening their homes for them, spending their money on them when they knew very well the consequences of these actions.
31. Avoiding the life of luxury
Sheikh Abdullah Azzam used to say: “Luxury is the enemy of Jihad”. Jihad is difficult and demands sacrifice. Therefore avoiding the life of luxury removes some of the obstacles that may stand between a person and Jihad. You need to be able to sleep on the floor, eat food different than what your mother or wife cooks for you, use cold water for wudu or ghusl, and not mind being unable to take a shower everyday. A brother who aspires to be a mujahid should be able to control his desires and to disobey his nafs. On should train himself to get used to breaking some habits such as his sleeping and eating habits by praying qiyam ul layl and fasting on Mondays and Thursdays. A true mujahid should be able to give up all attachments to this world for the sake of Allah.
32. Learning skills that would benefit the mujahideen
The field of Jihad is wide and it demands many skills. The brothers and sisters need to learn these skills and then use them to serve Islam. I emphasize on using them to serve “Islam” because we hear a lot about Muslims claiming that the reason why they are studying and pursuing degrees is to serve Allah but in the end they end up serving their pockets and selfish desires.
33. Joining groups that work for Jihad
Collective work is an obligation on Muslims today because the application of the law of Allah – which is an obligation - cannot return without a jama’ah (a group). But there are plenty of groups working for Islam so which one should you join?
Since Jihad is the greatest deed after believing in Allah and is the most needed - yet most neglected - act of worship today, it is necessary for you to join a group that has Jihad as its main objective. Every Islamic group that does not work for Jihad is deficient to say the least. That is because from the time Jihad was prescribed after the hijrah of the Messenger of Allah (saaws), the jama’ah that the sahabah were members of always had Jihad as its primary focus. That was true in the time of Rasulullah (saaws), Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, Ali and Mu’awiyah. Seerah documents nineteen battles in which the Messenger himself joined and 55 which he sent out. All within a span of ten years! The same can be said about the righteous Khulafa’ after him.
34. Spiritual preparation
The defeat of Muslims is not due to the strength of the enemy but is due to the weakness of the Muslims. Allah says: “And whatever strikes you of disaster – it is for what your hands have earned; but He pardons much” (42:30)
Therefore, spiritual preparation is needed for any difficult religious duty. Because the Messenger of Allah (saaws) was going to carry a heavy burden, Allah told him to prepare himself spiritually: “O you who wraps himself [in clothing]. Arise [to pray] the night, except for a little – Half of it – or subtract from it a little. Or add to it, and recite Quran with measured recitation. Indeed, We will cast upon you a heavy word.” (73:1-5)
Since Jihad is one of the heaviest commands of Allah, it needs lots of preparation.
35. Guiding others to the scholars of truth
We need to be aware that we are living in a time when scholars can be “made”. The enemies of Islam through their control of the media and Muslim governments can promote certain figures who they deem as representing a benign form of Islam and consequently, turn them into celebrities. An appointment of a scholar to the post of grand mufti in a particular Muslim country could turn that person into a world class scholar instantly. Arranging for a scholar to have a program on TV or radio makes that scholar famous. On the other hand the scholars of truth are threatened, jailed, and killed. The media ignores them so not many people know them. So does this make them less knowledgeable than the government scholars? The truth is that the scholars who speak out are the most knowledgeable scholars simply because they recognized the truth and proclaimed it.
It is therefore the responsibility of our brothers and sisters to guide others towards them.
36. Preparing for Hijrah
Muslims living amongst non-Muslims have put themselves at the mercy of the kuffar. When the Islamic state was established in Madinah the Messenger of Allah (saaws) declared it illegal to live amongst the disbelievers. Muslims should therefore prepare themselves to leave when the opportunity arises. Preparation for hijrah is not restricted to Muslims living in non-Muslim countries but applies to every Muslim because more often than not Jihad in its self demands hijrah. That is why the Messenger of Allah (saaws) said: “Hijrah does not stop as long as there is an enemy to fight” (Narrated by Ahmad)
37. Giving naseehah to the mujahideen
The mujahideen make mistakes and have shortcomings and need to be given naseehah. You can deliver the naseehah directly to them, you can send it, and you can post it on the internet; whatever way you choose, make sure that you are doing it for the sake of Allah and not to be critical of your brothers. The naseehah not only includes pointing their shortcomings but also suggesting to them new ideas and warning them of danger.
38. Studying the hadiths of fitan
The hadiths of fitan (plural of fitnah) are the hadiths in which the Messenger of Allah (saaws) spoke about events that would happen to his ummah after him. The word fitnah means “trials”. Studying the hadiths of fitan is important for the following reasons:
• There is an abundance of hadiths in this category which indicates its importance.
• The speeches of the Messenger of Allah (saaws) were concise and short. However it is narrated that once the Messenger of Allah (saaws) spoke to some companions continuously from fajr until Isha with no breaks except for salah. What was the topic? The trials that would befall this ummah from the time of his death until the end of time. If this topic wasn’t important why would Rasulullah (saaws) speak about it for an entire day?
• The sahabah were interested in knowing about fitan and would ask the Messenger of Allah (saaws) about how to protect themselves from them.
There are great benefits for the mujahideen in learning and teaching the hadiths of fitan:
• The most important benefit is to learn how to protect one’s self from failing in the trails.
• The Muslim gets a general understanding of where the ummah is heading and how it would achieve victory.
• Jihad plays a major role in the history of this ummah. Learning about the hadiths of fitan puts Jihad in its proper perspective. The greatest two leaders of this ummah in the end of time will be men of Jihad: al Mahdi and Isa the son of Mariam.
• The hadiths of fitan clearly reveal that the ascension of this ummah to victory will not be through elections or peaceful dawah, but through fighting in the path of Allah.
• Studying the hadiths of fitan and seeing the role Jihad plays clears the vision of a Muslim and encourages him to join the ranks of the mujahideen.
39. Exposing Pharaoh and his magicians.
The current governments of the Muslim world are playing the role of Pharaoh with Musa and the court scholars are playing the role of the magicians of Pharaoh in deceiving the masses. The governments and their court scholars are the third side of the triangle of enemies of the ummah alongside the Crusaders and the Zionists.
40. Nasheeds
Muslims need to be inspired to practice Jihad. In the time of Rasulullah (saaws) he had poets who would use their poetry to inspire the Muslims and demoralize the disbelievers. Today nasheed can play that role. A good nasheed can spread so widely it can reach to an audience that you could not reach through a lecture or a book. Nasheeds are especially inspiring to the youth, who are the foundation of Jihad in every age and time. Nasheeds are an important element in creating a “Jihad culture”.
Nasheeds are abundant in Arabic but scarce in English. Hence it is important for talented poets and talented singers to take up this responsibility. The nasheeds can cover topics such as: Martyrdom, Jihad is our only solution, support of the mujahideen, support of the present day leaders of Jihad (to connect the youth to them), the situation of the Ummah, the responsibility of the youth, the victory of Islam and defending the religion. The nasheeds should focus on Justice rather than peace and strength rather than weakness. The nasheeds should be strong and uplifting and not apologetic and feminine.
41. Boycotting the economy of the enemy
When Thumama bin Athaal became Muslim he boycotted Quraish by preventing the caravans carrying wheat to Makkah from passing through his land. Today Muslims should boycott the economies of the enemy by boycotting their products.
42. Learning Arabic
Arabic is the international language of Jihad. Most of the Jihad literature is available only in Arabic and publishers are not willing to take the risk of translating it. The only ones who are spending the money and time translating Jihad literature are the Western intelligence services…and too bad, they would not be willing to share it with you. Arabic also happens to be the predominant language of the foreign mujahideen in every land of Jihad so without it you might end up talking to yourself. It is important for the mujahideen to able to communicate through a common language and Arabic is the proper candidate.
43. Translating Jihad literature into other languages
As I stated in the previous point most of the Jihad literature is in Arabic. Brothers and sisters who speak a foreign language in addition to Arabic should translate the most important works into their languages.
Every movement of change is preceded first by an intellectual change. It is said that the time of Salahudeen was preceded by an upsurge in writings about Jihad. We are seeing this happen today. This revival of Jihad needs to take place among Muslims of every tongue.
44. Teaching others about the characteristics of al Ta’ifah al Mansoorah.
The Messenger of Allah (saaws) says: "A group of my ummah would continue fighting, obeying the command of Allah, defeating their enemies and they would not be harmed by those who are against them until the hour starts (the Day of Judgment)” (Related by al Hakim and he stated that the hadith is authentic)
This is the victorious group which each one of us should strive to join. You can recognize this group by their attributes which are as follows:
• They are a “group”: They work collectively and cooperate for the cause of good.
• “Fighting”: This is a key feature of this group. This characteristic alone would eliminate many of the groups working for Islam today.
• “They are not harmed by those who disagree with them”: This is because they have Allah on their side. I heard an English nasheed and even though the singer was a male but the voice and content was so feminine it gives you nausea. All what he was singing In another narration it says: “they are not harmed by those who betray them” which means that they would be betrayed by a lot of Muslims, yet, that won’t harm them.
• “They are victorious”: Victory here doesn’t necessarily mean against their enemies in this world. It means that they would succeed in preserving the religion and fighting for it until they die and meet Allah. It means they will never give up, compromise, or falter in carrying on the banner of Islam.
Teaching others about al Taifah al Mansoorah would help them find the truth.
Any Muslim who has basic knowledge of Islam, common sense, is willing to give up taqlid (blind following) of groups or Shuyukh, and think objectively would easily recognize which groups represent these attributes today. These characteristics fit them like a glove.
So brothers and sisters, these were some suggestions on how you can support Jihad in this day. These words don’t really mean much unless they are applied. So please apply as much as you can yourself and advise others to do the same.
In the end, we ask Allah to guide us to the straight path and to make us of those who listen to the words and follow the best of them. We ask you O Allah to make us among the mujahideen and to grant us victory over your enemies. Ameen!
(NB: This article is based on an Arabic article written by Muhammad al Salem titled: “39 ways of supporting Jihad.” I opted not to translate the article in its original form since significant changes where needed to make it more relevant to the English reader and to current events.)
44 Ways of Supporting Jihad
By Anwar al Awlaki
Dear brothers and sisters the issue is urgent since today our enemy is neither a nation nor a race. It is a system of kufr with global reach. The kuffar today are conspiring against us like never before. So could we be heading towards the great battle between the Romans and the Muslims - Al Malhamah - which the Prophet (saaws) spoke about?
Again, the point needs to be stressed: Jihad today is obligatory on every capable Muslim. So as a Muslim who wants to please Allah it is your duty to find ways to practice it and support it. Following are 44 ways for the brothers and sisters to support Jihad fi sabeelillah:
1. Having the right intention
You must make the intentions of joining the ranks of the mujahideen. The Messenger of Allah says: “Whoever dies and has not fought or intended to fight has died on a branch of hypocrisy” (Related by Muslim)
A sign that an intention of a person is true is whether they are preparing for Jihad or not. Allah says: “And if they had intended to go forth, they would have prepared for it” (9:46).
The conditions for Jihad al Dafi’ (the defensive Jihad) are five as stated by scholars such as Abu Qudamah: Islam, puberty, sanity, financial ability, and to be free of physical disabilities. If a person lacks the financial ability and doesn’t find anyone to finance him or suffers from an illness or a disability that excuses him from Jihad then a sign of the true intention of such a person is that he is sad that he is exempted from Jihad. Allah says about the ones who could not afford the expenses of joining in the battle of Tabuk: “Nor [is there blame] upon the those who, when they came to you that you might give them mounts, you said, “I can find nothing for you to ride upon.” They turned back while there eyes overflowed with tears out of grief that they could not find something to spend [for the cause of Allah]” (9-92)
2. Praying to Allah to award you with martyrdom
The Messenger (saaws) says: “Whoever sincerely asks Allah to award him with martyrdom would be given the rewards of martyrs even if he dies on his bed” (Related by Muslim)
Asking Allah to die as a shaheed pleases Allah because it shows him that you are willing to give your life for him. But you need to be careful not to be merely paying lip service. A person who truly asks for shahadah would respond to the call of Jihad whenever he hears it and would eagerly search for death in the path of Allah.
The reason why the enemies of Allah succeeded in defeating some Muslims and taking over their land is because they have lost their love for martyrdom. The Messenger of Allah (saaws) says: "Nations will attack you like a group of people eating from a plate. The sahabah said: “Is that because we will be few in numbers?” He said: “No, you will be numerous but you will be like the foam of the sea, and Allah will take away from the hearts of your enemies the fear from you and Allah will cast in your hearts “wahan”” They said: “What is “wahan” O Messenger of Allah?” He said: “The love of this world and the hatred of death” (Related by Abu Dawud).
Our culture of martyrdom needs to be revived because the enemy of Allah fears nothing more than our love of death.
3. Jihad with your wealth
The financial Jihad has preceded the physical Jihad in every verse except one. This is to point out to us the importance of the Jihad of wealth because Jihad depends on it. In other words, no money no Jihad, and Jihad needs lots of it. That is why according to Al Qurtubi in his tafseer he states that the reward for money given as Sadaqah is multiplied by ten, but the reward for money spent in Jihad is multiplied by 700!
Allah says: “The example of those who spend their wealth in the way of Allah is like a seed which grows seven spikes; in each spike is a hundred grains. And Allah multiplies [His reward] for whom He wills” (2:261)
Probably the most important contribution the Muslims of the West could do for Jihad is making Jihad with their wealth since in many cases the mujahideen are in need of money more than they are in need of men. As Sheikh Abdullah Azzam puts it: “Men are in need of Jihad and Jihad is in need of money”
4. Fundraising for the mujahideen
In addition to paying from your own money you should also encourage others to do the same. Rasulullah says: “The one who guides others towards a good deed would receive rewards equal to those who practice it.” By fundraising for the mujahideen you are also fulfilling a sunnah of Rasulullah (saaws) which he would often practice before going out for a battle.
5. Financing a Mujahid
Rasulullah (saaws) says: “Whoever sponsors a fighter in the cause of Allah has fought” (Majma’ al Zawa’id)
This includes all the expenses of the mujahid including his travel expenses. This gives a chance for the rich and the poor to receive the rewards of Jihad, the poor by fighting and the rich by sponsoring them.
6. Taking care of the family of a Mujahid
Taking care of the family of the mujahid could be by protecting them, tending to their needs, providing them with financial assistance and protecting their honor.
The Messenger of Allah (saaws) says:
• Anyone of you who takes care of the family and wealth of a mujahid will receive half the reward of the mujahid (Muslim)
• The duty towards protecting the honor of the wives of the mujahideen on the ones who stay behind is like their duty towards protecting the honor of their mothers. If a person who stays behind promises to take care of the wife of a mujahid but then betrays him, on the Day of Judgment the mujahid will be told that this man betrayed you so take whatever you want from his good deeds. So he will take whatever he likes. (Muslim)
• Whoever does not fight, sponsor a fighter, or take care of the family of a fighter, will be afflicted with a disaster before he dies. (Abu Dawud)
If a person fears for the safety of his family, Shaytan can take advantage of that and prevent that person from going to Jihad. Even if such a person disobeys Shaytan and does go to Jihad, Shaytan can come to him and weaken his heart by whispering to him about the loved ones he left behind. Therefore, taking care of the families of the mujahideen would help their morale and that is why Islam devoted this attention to taking care of the family and wealth of the mujahideen.
7. Sponsoring the family of a shaheed
The shaheed has fought for Islam and Muslims. He gave up his life for me and you. Therefore the families of the shaheeds need to be honored and served.
When Ja'far bin Abi Talib was killed in the battle of Mu’tah, the Messenger of Allah (saaws) told his wives: “Prepare food for the family of Ja’far because they are preoccupied with their affair” and he visited Ja’far’s house. (Related by Abu Dawud and al-Tirmithi). Imam Ahmad narrates that when the Messenger of Allah received the news of the martyrdom of Ja’far he visited his house and asked Ja’far’s wife to bring the children. When they came to him he hugged them and kissed them while his eyes were shedding tears. Asma – the wife of Ja’far – said: “I asked the Messenger of Allah (saaws) if something has happened” He said: “Yes, Ja’far was killed today” Asma said: “When I heard that I started crying and screaming. Then the Messenger of Allah (saaws) left and told his wives: “Don’t forget to prepare food for the family of Ja’far because their affair has overwhelmed them””
The children of the shaheed need to find in the men of the ummah the care of their father. The wife of the shaheed should be given the opportunity of remarrying if she has the desire to. This requires two cultural changes.
First: The Muslim society needs to change its negative view regarding the divorced and widowed woman. Unfortunately, today men avoid women who are divorcees or widows. This stigma attached to our divorced and widowed sisters needs to be overcome.
Second: The Muslim society today is very intolerant towards polygamy - which becomes a social necessity especially in times of war. So isn’t it unfair to deprive millions of Muslim sisters from the blessings of marriage?
No woman in the time of the sahabah was left without a husband - a partner who would take care of her psychological, physical and financial needs.
When Ja’far died Abu Bakr married his wife and took care of her children.
8. Sponsoring the families of the prisoners of war
Taking care of the family of a prisoner is equal in reward to taking care of the family of a mujahid. It is extremely important for such a practice to become the norm so that in the future when our brothers go out in the path of Allah they would know that if they die or if they are captured their families would be taken care of.
9. Paying your zakah to the mujahideen
The distribution of zakah is restricted to eight categories: “Zakah expenditures are only for the poor and for the needy and for those employed to collect [Zakah] and for bringing hearts together [for Islam] and for freeing captives [or slaves] and for those in debt and for the cause of Allah and for the [stranded] traveler” (9:60)
In the cause of Allah “fi sabeelillah” refers to the mujahideen. The Maliki jurist Abu Bakr bin al Arabi states: “Malik says: “The causes of Allah are many, but there is no difference of opinion that “in the cause of Allah” here (in the verse) refers to fighting”
Imam al Nawawi states in al Minhaaj when talking about the spending of zakah: “The fighter in the path of Allah is given what he needs to cover his expenses and the expenses of his family from the time he leaves until the time he comes back, even if he is absent for a long time”
Today not a lot of people pay their zakah to the mujahideen. But if Muslims would rid themselves from the whispering of Shaytan they would come to realize that the best way to spend their zakah nowadays is by giving it to the mujahideen because the Messenger of Allah (saaws) says: “Charity cannot be given to a wealthy person except in five situations” The Messenger of Allah (saaws) listed one of them as: “The fighter in the cause of Allah” (Related by Abu Dawud). Now if zakah can be paid to the mujahideen even if they are rich what about when the mujahideen of today fulfill four out of the eight categories of zakah: They are poor, they are in need, they are wayfarers and they are the ones in the cause of Allah!
So pay your zakah to the mujahideen and encourage others to do the same.
10. Contributing to the medical needs of the mujahideen
The mujahideen are in great need of any medical assistance they can get. They need physicians, they need hospitals and clinics that would open their doors to them and they need medicine. There are hundreds of thousands of Muslim physicians and nevertheless we hear many stories of injured mujahideen who suffered from simple wounds but because of the absence of medical help they had to suffer in agony until they died. Those Muslims who studied medicine and claim that they are doing it for the sake of Allah and to benefit the Muslims, we say to them: Where are you?
It is said that Khattaab - the great Muslim commander in Chechnya - was injured in a battle and his brothers found no Muslim doctor to take care of him so they had to take him to the Red Cross and have them treat him under gun point!
Muslim health care workers have a great responsibility and their contribution to Jihad is indispensable. In fact their rewards could be even greater than those of the fighters.
11. Providing Moral support and encouragement for the mujahideen
When the mujahideen hear Imams making dua for them, scholars giving fatwas supporting them and the Muslim masses praising them, this boosts their moral and gives them the strength to carry on. However, we find that many Muslims betray their brothers by speaking against them. We see scholars issuing fatwas in support of the apostate governments in their fight against the mujahideen. One should not underestimate the detrimental effect such betrayal has on the mujahideen.
12. Defending the mujahideen and standing up for them
The Messenger of Allah (saaws) says: “Whoever protects the reputation of his brother, Allah will protect his face from Hell Fire on the Day of Judgment” (Related by al Tirmithi)
He also says: “Any person who betrays a Muslim whose sanctity is being violated and reputation is being dishonored, Allah will betray him when he is in need of help and any person who protects a Muslim whose sanctity is being violated and reputation is being dishonored, Allah will assist him when he is in need of help” (Related by Abu Dawud)
It is therefore our Islamic duty to stand up for the ones who are defending us and our religion. As a rule of thumb, we should never side by word or deed against our brothers in Islam especially the ones who have given up their lives for Islam and we should never side by word or deed with the disbelievers who are the enemies of our most beloved, Allah subhanahu wa ta’aala. And if one cannot speak the truth then at least they should remain silent.
13. Fighting the lies of the Western Media
The perceptions of many Muslims are formed by the Western media. Allah says: “O you who have believed, if there comes to you a disobedient one (fasiq) with information, investigate, lest you harm a people out of ignorance and become, over what you have done, regretful” (49:6)
So what about when the news is coming from a kafir rather than a fasiq?!
The danger of the Western media stems from the fact that it puts on the cloak of truth and objectivity when in reality it is no more than the mouthpiece of the devil.
Can’t you see that the Western media is constantly trying to underplay the atrocities committed by the West while exaggerating the violations – which are few and far in between - committed by Muslims? Can’t you see how the Western media succeeded in presenting the awlyaa’ (friends) of Allah, the ones who are fighting in His cause, as the followers of evil, while it presents the Pharaoh of this day and his armies as the army of good?
The Western media is so good in its deception that its lies pass on a wide section of the Muslim ummah. The fact is that this media demonizes the mujahideen, spreads lies about them, blows out of proportion their mistakes, tries to sow the seeds of disunity amongst them, attempts to ruin the reputations of their leaders, and ignores or demonizes the scholars of truth when on the other hand, it glorifies and promotes the scholars of falsehood.
So my dear brothers and sisters part of your duty is to campaign amongst Muslims to raise their awareness regarding this issue. You should encourage them to be careful and critical of the Western media. A Muslim should not believe Western sources unless they are confirmed by a trustworthy Muslim one. I say a “trustworthy” Muslim source because the verse was warning us from accepting the news of a disobeying Muslim. Now that is not to say that we should not believe the media in anything it says even in its weather forecasts! No, what we are saying is that you should not believe what they say about Islam and Muslims. A media source that could otherwise be very objective and truthful could become a fabricator when it comes to covering news on Muslims. That is how the disbelievers dealt with Muslims since the dawn of history…and there is no reason for us to believe why that would change.
14. Exposing the hypocrites
The hypocrites represented a great danger to the Muslim community during the time of the Prophet, and they still do. The Messenger of Allah would fight them by exposing their lies. If the battle with the kuffar was primarily a battle of swords, the battle against the hypocrites was primarily a battle of words. Since the hypocrites hide behind the cloak of religion to spread their poisonous ideas, the way to fight them is by revealing the truth and exposing their lies. Your weapon against them is Quran and Sunnah.
Some of these hypocrites could be very charismatic. They could appear to be very impressive, but they are fake. Allah says: “And when you see them, their forms please you, and if they speak, you listen to their speech. They are as if they were pieces of wood propped up – they think that every shout is against them. They are the enemy, so beware of them. May Allah destroy them; how are they deluded?” (63:4) The fake scholars and deviant ideologies need to be exposed for what they are.
15. Encouraging others to fight Jihad
Inviting others to do good is an encouraged act of worship since it falls under enjoining good and forbidding evil. In addition to that, encouraging others to participate in Jihad was an act of worship we were specifically asked to do.
Allah says: “O Prophet, urge the believers to battle.” (8:65) and He says: “So fight, [O Muhammad], in the cause of Allah; you are not held responsible except for yourself. And encourage the believers [to join you] that perhaps Allah will restrain the might of those who disbelieve. And Allah is greater in might and stronger in [exemplary] punishment.” (4:84)
16. Protecting the mujahideen and preserving their secrets
We need to guard our tongues. Sometimes you could end up endangering your brothers unwillingly by your words. A Muslim should develop the habit of being able to keep secrets. We have an incident from seerah where a sahabi refused to tell his own wife about a secret mentioned to him by the Messenger of Allah. Sometimes you want to protect the secrets from the closest people to you: your wife, parents, children and brothers, because they might be the most vulnerable. A Muslim should learn to not say more than what needs to be said, to work on a “need to know basis”. A lot of Jihad work is secret and clandestine by nature. Therefore, brothers and sisters should be very careful with their words. A lot of harm was inflicted on Jihad work because of otherwise good and sincere brothers who had loose tongues.
The enemies of Allah will try to recruit Muslims to infiltrate Islamic work. They will tell them that we are doing this to protect the Muslims. They may carry along with them scholars who would approve that. Part of your role in protecting the mujahideen is by warning the Muslim community that spying on a Muslim for a non-Muslim is nothing less than kufr.
Allah says: “And whoever is an ally of them among you – then indeed, he is one of them.” (5:51)
17. Praying for the mujahideen
Never underestimate the power of a sincere dua’.
The Messenger of Allah (saaws) says: “This ummah is given victory through the weak among them, through their dua’, prayers and sincerity”. Make dua for them in your sujood since that is when you are closest to Allah.
An important form of dua that needs to be performed is dua al Qunoot in salah. Encourage Imams to perform it when things get tough on the mujahideen. This is the Sunnah of Rasulullah.
Prior to one of the battles, the leader of the Muslim army asked his soldiers to see what Muhammad bin Wasi' (one of the great worshipers of the early Muslims) was doing. They came back saying that we saw him raising his finger and making dua. The leader of the army said: “That finger making dua to Allah is more beloved to me than a thousand men!”
18. Following the news of Jihad and spreading it
Following the news of Jihad and the mujahideen is important because
• It keeps your attachment to Jihad alive.
• It strengthens your belongingness to the ummah.
• It encourages you to join Jihad when you see the heroic acts of the mujahideen. It kindles your desire for martyrdom when you see the courage of martyrs.
• Those who follow the news of the mujahideen will see how Allah is protecting his servants and guiding them towards victory. They will see how the ummah is heading towards the era of Islam under the leadership of: “al Ta’ifah al Mansoorah” mentioned in the hadiths of Rasulullah (saaws).
• Reading history or Fiqh books on Jihad provides you with the theory. Following the news of the mujahideen provides you with practical examples of how our brothers are applying the theory in today’s world. It provides you with something tangible, something real.
• The news of Jihad is the news of the conflict between good and evil which has existed since the time of Adam and will continue until the end of time. Following the developments of this conflict brings Quran into light. When you read Quran with this awareness you would have a more engaged relationship with the book of Allah than a person who is living in the seclusion of his ivory tower. This engagement with the book of Allah reaches its height when you yourself are engaged in this conflict by joining the ranks of the mujahideen.
I need to repeat what I mentioned in point 13 that you should only spread authentic information from authentic sources. Because spreading rumors is an attribute of the hypocrites: Allah says: “And when there comes to them something [information] about public security or fear, they spread it around. But if they had referred it back to the Messenger or to those of authority among them, then the ones who [can] draw correct conclusions from it would have known about it.” (4:83)
19. Spreading the writings of the mujahideen and their scholars
Unfortunately we hear some Muslims claiming that the mujahideen lack scholars who support them and they lack a clear strategy and that what the mujahideen are doing is spontaneous and reactionary. Such claims are the furthest from the truth. There are plenty of scholars and strategic thinkers who are supporters of Jihad today. The problem is that because they are on the true path most of them are killed, jailed or forced to go underground. Nevertheless there is still an abundance of material supporting Jihad work and offering strategies for it.
In fact the writings of the scholars of Jihad tend to be the most deeply rooted in sharia because they speak it out as it is, which means they do not need to get involved in ignoring any sharia evidence, twisting sharia texts, and searching for odd opinions as some others may do. The scholars of the mujahideen made it clear that they fear no one but Allah and are willing to displease anyone if that pleases him. They refer to Quran and hadith and quote the scholars of the ummah such as Ibn Hajar, al Nawawi, al Qurtubi, ibn Kathir, ibn Taymiyyah, and the four Imams. They have nothing to hide or conceal. This makes their works the most clear and the most convincing. To counter the fact that no publishers or media outlets are willing to risk sponsoring their works, it falls upon the mujahideen and their sympathizers to do that work. It is therefore our responsibility to spread their knowledge. Some ways in which you could contribute:
• Handing out books and pamphlets to your friends and family.
• Posting material online
• Setting up websites that publish such works
• Guiding others towards such websites.
• Email lists
• Placing such information in masjids
• Distributing such material in gatherings
• Holding private circles in which these writings are studied
20. The issuance of fatwas supporting the mujahideen
There are scholars who are willing to speak out the truth. Such scholars should be encouraged to do so and brothers should support these scholars and let them know that they would stand by them. The fatwas of these scholars should be widely distributed to the masses. There are many young brothers and sisters who agree with the methodology of the mujahideen but they are not willing to fully embrace it until they see scholars approving this methodology. At the end of the day the masses are followers and they would like to see scholars guiding them.
21. Providing the scholars and Imams with information and news about the mujahideen
Just because a person is a scholar doesn’t mean he knows everything. In fact there is a tendency for people who are specialists in a particular field to ignore, and thus become ignorant, of other fields. Scholars and Imams need to be provided with good material. In my conversations with many scholars – some of whom are on a world class level – I was amazed at their lack of knowledge regarding the mujahideen. They lack information on where the mujahideen stand on issues, their publications and their news. The enemies of Islam know the influence that Muslim scholars have on the ummah. Therefore they give scholars special attention. The enemies of Islam would love to see our scholars debating and fighting over trivial issues in order to divert their attention from the real issues that are facing the ummah.
What the brothers and sisters alike can do is to influence the scholars, because by influencing the views of one scholar you could change the views of thousands of Muslims. Provide the scholar with carefully chosen material to read. In the beginning you should give them concise material. Remember scholars tend to be very busy and have a lot of material on their table to read so you need to follow up with them on whether they read what you gave them or not. Discuss with them issues covered in what they read, and discuss it with them as a student and not as an opponent. Avoid confronting them with controversial questions because their fear or cautiousness could cause them to give you a watered down opinion which they might not sincerely believe in and then try to stand by it and defend it just because they said it. Suggest to Imams issues to discuss in Friday khutbahs and provide them with information that could be used in the khutbahs.
22. Physical fitness
The Messenger of Allah (saaws) says: “The strong believer is better and more beloved to Allah than the weak believer and there is good in both” (Related by Muslim)
Physical fitness is part of the preparation for Jihad. What Jihad needs is not body builders. What Jihad needs is mujahideen who have the ability to walk for long hours, to run for long distances (important for guerrilla warfare), to sprint (important for urban warfare), and to climb mountains. The mujahid needs to be able to perform all of the afore-mentioned while carrying a weight. In Jihad lands such as Bosnia and Chechnya unfit brothers represented a burden on the mujahideen because they would slow down the whole group. Also the unfit can more easily fall in the hands of the enemy. So endurance exercises should take precedence over exercise for strength and flexibility.
Even if a Muslim is not going to fight, physical fitness is still important. For example, a fit person can withstand prison and torture more than a person who is not.
The early Muslims were fit since they led a military lifestyle. The companion Amr bin al Aas who opened Egypt in the time of Umar and was appointed as its governor used to say in Jumu’ah khutbah: “I don’t want to see any one of you gaining weight while your horse is losing weight. If I see that I will reduce your salaries accordingly”
So dear brothers, exercising with the right intention is an act of worship. Our sisters are not exempt from this. They also need to be fit and the Muslim community needs to work out halal alternatives for the sisters to exercise.
23. Arms training
Preparing for Jihad is obligatory since Jihad today is obligatory and the sharia rule states that: “Whatever is needed for an obligatory act becomes obligatory”
Arms training is an essential part of preparation for Jihad.
Allah says: “And prepare against them whatever you are able of power and of steeds of war by which you may terrify the enemy of Allah and your enemy and others besides them whom you don’t know but Allah knows” (8:60) The Messenger of Allah (saaws) said regarding this verse: “Power is marksmanship, power is marksmanship” (Related by Muslim)
The issue is so critical that if arms training is not possible in your country then it is worth the time and money to travel to another country to train if you can.
24. First aid training
In many situations the mujahideen have no access to hospitals. In such situations first aid becomes the only available option. In addition to first aid brothers and sisters need to get any medical training that would be relevant to the tough conditions of Jihad. This needs to be determined by brothers and sisters who are in the medical field in coordination with brothers who have an experience in Jihad.
25. Learning the fiqh of Jihad
Learning the fiqh of Jihad includes the fatwas of scholars regarding the issues that face the mujahideen today such as the ruling of Jihad today, rulings of dar-ul-Harb, the issue of civilians and collateral damage, the issue of the covenant of security with non-Muslim governments, fighting in the absence of an Imam, and the ruling on present governments in the Muslim world. It is equally important to study the virtues of Jihad. One also needs to study the writings of scholars and thinkers who are charting out the course for today’s Jihad.
26. Protecting the mujahideen and supporting them:
Allah says: ”Indeed, those who have believed and emigrated and fought with their wealth and lives in the cause of Allah, and those who gave shelter and aided – they are allies of one another.” (8:72)
And He says: “But those who have believed and emigrated and fought in the cause of Allah and those who gave shelter and aided – It is they who are the believers, truly. For them is forgiveness and noble provision.” (8:74)
When the mujahideen are in danger we need to offer them with protection. It is true that such a protection could be very costly but this is a sacrifice that we are offering for the sake of Allah. The Taliban paid the price for offering a safe haven for the foreign mujahideen: They lost their government. But that is not a defeat but a victory because in the eyes of Allah you have won, no matter what the worldly costs are, if you have held on firmly to your religion, and you have lost, no matter what the worldly gains are, if you have wavered in your religion.
We should open our houses for the mujahideen among us and we should offer them with the support they need. Isn’t that precisely what awarded the Ansar the high status they have achieved?
27. Developing the Aqeedah of Walaa’ and Baraa’
The issue of loyalty towards Allah, His Messenger and the believers and the declaration of our animosity towards the disbelievers and their gods has not had its fair share of attention in Islamic circles. Allah says: “There has already been for you an excellent example in Ibrahim and those with him, when they said to their people, “Indeed, we are disassociated from you and from whatever you worship other than Allah. We have denied you, and there has appeared between us and you animosity and hatred forever until you believe in Allah alone” (60:5)
Allah described the ones who fight in his path as being “Humble towards the believers, powerful against the disbelievers” (5:54). The mujahid should have a clear understanding of what it means to be loyal to Allah, His Messenger and the believers and declaring animosity towards the disbelievers. Ibn Taymiyyah states that: “You need to love the believer even if he wrongs you or oppresses you, and you need to dislike the disbeliever even if he is kind to you”.
The hatred of kuffar is a central element of our military creed. We need to realize that Allah will not grant us victory as long as we still have some love towards his enemies in our hearts. The spiritual condition of total loyalty towards Allah and total animosity towards his enemies was a necessary precursor to the judgment of Allah between His prophets and their disbelieving nations. Never was victory attained by the Prophets of Allah and their people until their loyalty towards Allah was complete and their disassociation with the kuffar was complete.
28. Fulfilling our responsibilities towards the Muslim POW
Rasulullah (saaws) says: “And free the prisoner” (al Bukhari). Our scholars say that it is a duty on Muslims to free the POWs even if they have to expend all their money. Many mujahideen are forgotten, lingering in prison cells in every continent around the world. Not even the islands of the sea are spared. We need to raise the awareness of the ummah regarding their issue, keep them in our dua and fight for their release.
29. WWW Jihad
The internet has become a great medium for spreading the call of Jihad and following the news of the mujahideen. Some ways in which the brothers and sisters could be “internet mujahideen” is by contributing in one or more of the following ways:
• Establishing discussion forums that offer a free, uncensored medium for posting information relating to Jihad.
• Establishing email lists to share information with interested brothers and sisters.
• Posting or emailing Jihad literature and news.
• Setting up websites to cover specific areas of Jihad, such as: mujahideen news, Muslim POWs, and Jihad literature.
30. Raising our children on the love of Jihad and the mujahideen
Our children need to be raised up with the love of Jihad and the mujahideen. The stories we narrate to them need to stem from our rich Jihad history. We should have them grow up with Ali bin Abi Talib, Khalid bin al Waleed, Abu Ubaidah, Sad bin Abi Waqqas, Muhammad al Fatih, Muhammad bin al Qasim and Salahudin. Their role models should be the heroes of today’s Jihad. On the other hand they should learn to despise Pharaoh, Qaroon, and Abu Jahl as well as today’s Pharaohs, Qaroons and Abu Jahls.
Our children should not be taught to “stay away from trouble and be a good boy” but to “do the right thing even if it’s going to get you in trouble”. They need to be taught to be proactive rather than passive. Al Zubair bin al Awam – one of the ten given the glad tidings of Paradise – used to take with him to the battlefield his son Abdullah when he was still a child. But since Abdullah was still a child and therefore couldn’t fight, his father would have him carry a small knife and go around the battlefield searching for injured disbelievers in order to finish them off. Abdullah then grew up to become one of the great fighters of this ummah.
Even though the physical Jihad is primarily within the men’s domain, our sister still needs to live the “life of a mujahid” which her husband lives. She needs to be supportive of him if he goes for Jihad, content if he is a shaheed and patient if he is taken as a POW. A mujahid sister would be like the women of al Ansar. They saw that Islam was taking away their fathers, brothers, husbands and sons and they were still welcoming the muhajireen and opening their homes for them, spending their money on them when they knew very well the consequences of these actions.
31. Avoiding the life of luxury
Sheikh Abdullah Azzam used to say: “Luxury is the enemy of Jihad”. Jihad is difficult and demands sacrifice. Therefore avoiding the life of luxury removes some of the obstacles that may stand between a person and Jihad. You need to be able to sleep on the floor, eat food different than what your mother or wife cooks for you, use cold water for wudu or ghusl, and not mind being unable to take a shower everyday. A brother who aspires to be a mujahid should be able to control his desires and to disobey his nafs. On should train himself to get used to breaking some habits such as his sleeping and eating habits by praying qiyam ul layl and fasting on Mondays and Thursdays. A true mujahid should be able to give up all attachments to this world for the sake of Allah.
32. Learning skills that would benefit the mujahideen
The field of Jihad is wide and it demands many skills. The brothers and sisters need to learn these skills and then use them to serve Islam. I emphasize on using them to serve “Islam” because we hear a lot about Muslims claiming that the reason why they are studying and pursuing degrees is to serve Allah but in the end they end up serving their pockets and selfish desires.
33. Joining groups that work for Jihad
Collective work is an obligation on Muslims today because the application of the law of Allah – which is an obligation - cannot return without a jama’ah (a group). But there are plenty of groups working for Islam so which one should you join?
Since Jihad is the greatest deed after believing in Allah and is the most needed - yet most neglected - act of worship today, it is necessary for you to join a group that has Jihad as its main objective. Every Islamic group that does not work for Jihad is deficient to say the least. That is because from the time Jihad was prescribed after the hijrah of the Messenger of Allah (saaws), the jama’ah that the sahabah were members of always had Jihad as its primary focus. That was true in the time of Rasulullah (saaws), Abu Bakr, Umar, Uthman, Ali and Mu’awiyah. Seerah documents nineteen battles in which the Messenger himself joined and 55 which he sent out. All within a span of ten years! The same can be said about the righteous Khulafa’ after him.
34. Spiritual preparation
The defeat of Muslims is not due to the strength of the enemy but is due to the weakness of the Muslims. Allah says: “And whatever strikes you of disaster – it is for what your hands have earned; but He pardons much” (42:30)
Therefore, spiritual preparation is needed for any difficult religious duty. Because the Messenger of Allah (saaws) was going to carry a heavy burden, Allah told him to prepare himself spiritually: “O you who wraps himself [in clothing]. Arise [to pray] the night, except for a little – Half of it – or subtract from it a little. Or add to it, and recite Quran with measured recitation. Indeed, We will cast upon you a heavy word.” (73:1-5)
Since Jihad is one of the heaviest commands of Allah, it needs lots of preparation.
35. Guiding others to the scholars of truth
We need to be aware that we are living in a time when scholars can be “made”. The enemies of Islam through their control of the media and Muslim governments can promote certain figures who they deem as representing a benign form of Islam and consequently, turn them into celebrities. An appointment of a scholar to the post of grand mufti in a particular Muslim country could turn that person into a world class scholar instantly. Arranging for a scholar to have a program on TV or radio makes that scholar famous. On the other hand the scholars of truth are threatened, jailed, and killed. The media ignores them so not many people know them. So does this make them less knowledgeable than the government scholars? The truth is that the scholars who speak out are the most knowledgeable scholars simply because they recognized the truth and proclaimed it.
It is therefore the responsibility of our brothers and sisters to guide others towards them.
36. Preparing for Hijrah
Muslims living amongst non-Muslims have put themselves at the mercy of the kuffar. When the Islamic state was established in Madinah the Messenger of Allah (saaws) declared it illegal to live amongst the disbelievers. Muslims should therefore prepare themselves to leave when the opportunity arises. Preparation for hijrah is not restricted to Muslims living in non-Muslim countries but applies to every Muslim because more often than not Jihad in its self demands hijrah. That is why the Messenger of Allah (saaws) said: “Hijrah does not stop as long as there is an enemy to fight” (Narrated by Ahmad)
37. Giving naseehah to the mujahideen
The mujahideen make mistakes and have shortcomings and need to be given naseehah. You can deliver the naseehah directly to them, you can send it, and you can post it on the internet; whatever way you choose, make sure that you are doing it for the sake of Allah and not to be critical of your brothers. The naseehah not only includes pointing their shortcomings but also suggesting to them new ideas and warning them of danger.
38. Studying the hadiths of fitan
The hadiths of fitan (plural of fitnah) are the hadiths in which the Messenger of Allah (saaws) spoke about events that would happen to his ummah after him. The word fitnah means “trials”. Studying the hadiths of fitan is important for the following reasons:
• There is an abundance of hadiths in this category which indicates its importance.
• The speeches of the Messenger of Allah (saaws) were concise and short. However it is narrated that once the Messenger of Allah (saaws) spoke to some companions continuously from fajr until Isha with no breaks except for salah. What was the topic? The trials that would befall this ummah from the time of his death until the end of time. If this topic wasn’t important why would Rasulullah (saaws) speak about it for an entire day?
• The sahabah were interested in knowing about fitan and would ask the Messenger of Allah (saaws) about how to protect themselves from them.
There are great benefits for the mujahideen in learning and teaching the hadiths of fitan:
• The most important benefit is to learn how to protect one’s self from failing in the trails.
• The Muslim gets a general understanding of where the ummah is heading and how it would achieve victory.
• Jihad plays a major role in the history of this ummah. Learning about the hadiths of fitan puts Jihad in its proper perspective. The greatest two leaders of this ummah in the end of time will be men of Jihad: al Mahdi and Isa the son of Mariam.
• The hadiths of fitan clearly reveal that the ascension of this ummah to victory will not be through elections or peaceful dawah, but through fighting in the path of Allah.
• Studying the hadiths of fitan and seeing the role Jihad plays clears the vision of a Muslim and encourages him to join the ranks of the mujahideen.
39. Exposing Pharaoh and his magicians.
The current governments of the Muslim world are playing the role of Pharaoh with Musa and the court scholars are playing the role of the magicians of Pharaoh in deceiving the masses. The governments and their court scholars are the third side of the triangle of enemies of the ummah alongside the Crusaders and the Zionists.
40. Nasheeds
Muslims need to be inspired to practice Jihad. In the time of Rasulullah (saaws) he had poets who would use their poetry to inspire the Muslims and demoralize the disbelievers. Today nasheed can play that role. A good nasheed can spread so widely it can reach to an audience that you could not reach through a lecture or a book. Nasheeds are especially inspiring to the youth, who are the foundation of Jihad in every age and time. Nasheeds are an important element in creating a “Jihad culture”.
Nasheeds are abundant in Arabic but scarce in English. Hence it is important for talented poets and talented singers to take up this responsibility. The nasheeds can cover topics such as: Martyrdom, Jihad is our only solution, support of the mujahideen, support of the present day leaders of Jihad (to connect the youth to them), the situation of the Ummah, the responsibility of the youth, the victory of Islam and defending the religion. The nasheeds should focus on Justice rather than peace and strength rather than weakness. The nasheeds should be strong and uplifting and not apologetic and feminine.
41. Boycotting the economy of the enemy
When Thumama bin Athaal became Muslim he boycotted Quraish by preventing the caravans carrying wheat to Makkah from passing through his land. Today Muslims should boycott the economies of the enemy by boycotting their products.
42. Learning Arabic
Arabic is the international language of Jihad. Most of the Jihad literature is available only in Arabic and publishers are not willing to take the risk of translating it. The only ones who are spending the money and time translating Jihad literature are the Western intelligence services…and too bad, they would not be willing to share it with you. Arabic also happens to be the predominant language of the foreign mujahideen in every land of Jihad so without it you might end up talking to yourself. It is important for the mujahideen to able to communicate through a common language and Arabic is the proper candidate.
43. Translating Jihad literature into other languages
As I stated in the previous point most of the Jihad literature is in Arabic. Brothers and sisters who speak a foreign language in addition to Arabic should translate the most important works into their languages.
Every movement of change is preceded first by an intellectual change. It is said that the time of Salahudeen was preceded by an upsurge in writings about Jihad. We are seeing this happen today. This revival of Jihad needs to take place among Muslims of every tongue.
44. Teaching others about the characteristics of al Ta’ifah al Mansoorah.
The Messenger of Allah (saaws) says: "A group of my ummah would continue fighting, obeying the command of Allah, defeating their enemies and they would not be harmed by those who are against them until the hour starts (the Day of Judgment)” (Related by al Hakim and he stated that the hadith is authentic)
This is the victorious group which each one of us should strive to join. You can recognize this group by their attributes which are as follows:
• They are a “group”: They work collectively and cooperate for the cause of good.
• “Fighting”: This is a key feature of this group. This characteristic alone would eliminate many of the groups working for Islam today.
• “They are not harmed by those who disagree with them”: This is because they have Allah on their side. I heard an English nasheed and even though the singer was a male but the voice and content was so feminine it gives you nausea. All what he was singing In another narration it says: “they are not harmed by those who betray them” which means that they would be betrayed by a lot of Muslims, yet, that won’t harm them.
• “They are victorious”: Victory here doesn’t necessarily mean against their enemies in this world. It means that they would succeed in preserving the religion and fighting for it until they die and meet Allah. It means they will never give up, compromise, or falter in carrying on the banner of Islam.
Teaching others about al Taifah al Mansoorah would help them find the truth.
Any Muslim who has basic knowledge of Islam, common sense, is willing to give up taqlid (blind following) of groups or Shuyukh, and think objectively would easily recognize which groups represent these attributes today. These characteristics fit them like a glove.
So brothers and sisters, these were some suggestions on how you can support Jihad in this day. These words don’t really mean much unless they are applied. So please apply as much as you can yourself and advise others to do the same.
In the end, we ask Allah to guide us to the straight path and to make us of those who listen to the words and follow the best of them. We ask you O Allah to make us among the mujahideen and to grant us victory over your enemies. Ameen!
(NB: This article is based on an Arabic article written by Muhammad al Salem titled: “39 ways of supporting Jihad.” I opted not to translate the article in its original form since significant changes where needed to make it more relevant to the English reader and to current events.)
44 Ways of Supporting Jihad
By Anwar al Awlaki
Plants of the Qur'an: The Date Palm
"And tall (and stately) palm-trees, with shoots of fruit-stalks piled one over another" (Noble Qur'an 50:10)
From lush tropical rainforests to stark desert lands, from lofty mountain tops to shimmering seashores, we find an array of plants that scientists have estimated to be in the range of 422,000 species. The astounding diversity of the plant kingdom, which incorporates trees, flowering plants, ferns, mosses, seaweed and algae, has enthralled botanists for centuries. This diversity is described in the Qur’an as follows:
And in the earth are neighboring tracts, and gardens of vines, and green crops (fields), and date palms, growing into two or three from a single stem root, or otherwise (one stem root for every palm), watered with the same water; yet some of them We make more excellent than others to eat. Verily! In these things there are signs for the people who understand.
(Noble Qur'an 13:3)
Plants, the colourful garments of the earth, play a key role in protecting life on this planet. Trees, which cover a third of the earth’s surface, regulate the climate of the earth by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. In addition, plants provide nourishment, medicines, shelter, fuel and clothing to humankind and animals alike. Plants also fulfil a beautifying and decorative function.
Botanical research by Muslim scholars can be traced back to the second year after Hijrah (7th century AD) when a keen interest developed into the medicinal and agricultural aspects of the floral kingdom. ‘Ilm ul-nabaat, the science of plants, encompassed not only scientific studies that classified and described plants, but also contemplated the spiritual and moral lessons drawn from the plant world.
Plants are regarded as one of the countless favours of Allah. As one reads in Surah Ar-Rahman, “So which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?”(55:13). If humankind attempted to count the blessings of this one favor of Allah, the plant kingdom, it would not be able to fathom the Greatness of the Creator.
If we would count up the favors of Allah. Never would ye be able to number them. For Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most-Merciful. (16:18)
In this three-part series we will draw on the work of Dr. Iqtidar Faruqi's Plants of the Qur’an to discuss three of the plants mentioned in the Qur’an and look at their characteristics, uses and benefits in our lives. The first of these is the date palm.
The Date Palm: King of the Oasis
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| One male date palm can produce enough pollen to pollinate 40-50 female trees. |
The date palm, mentioned more than any other fruit-bearing plant in the Qur’an, is a symbol often associated with Islam and Muslims. Throughout the month of Ramadan, dates are a common ingredient in the Muslim diet.
The delectable fruit is sourced from the date palms of Iran, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, Egypt and even South Africa. Muslims begin and end their day of fasting with its sweet and nourishing flesh.
Phoenix dactylifera is the botanical name for the date palm. It is also referred to as nakhl in Arabic, while the fruit of the date palm is called tamr in many Arab and African countries.
The date palm is a tall evergreen and consists of both male and female trees (called dioecious). Only the female trees produce fruit, but one male tree can produce enough pollen to pollinate 40-50 female trees.
At Times of War
Prior to the advent of Islam, date palms, particularly the highly valued male trees, were often cut down and destroyed in battles between tribes. However, this practice was strongly discouraged by the Prophet (may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and subsequent leaders and viewed as an act of “sacrilege on this earth” (Farooqi, 1997).
During military expeditions, soldiers were instructed not to harm innocent people, nor to cut down any vegetation. However, during the siege of the Banu Nadir tribe in Madinah, Muslims were forced to cut down date palms to “facilitate the movement of the army” (Farooqi, 1997). The Banu Nadir were angry and wanted to know how the Prophet, “who always forbade corruption and injustice and castigated their perpetrators” (Haykal, 1990), could command the destruction of their orchards. This act greatly saddened the Muslims but was deemed necessary. A verse was revealed at this time that indicated the permissibility of their action in these circumstances.
“And what you (O Muslims) cut down of the palm-trees (of the enemy), or you left them standing on their stems, it was by leave of Allah, and in order that He might disgrace the Fasiqun (the rebellious, disobedient to Allah)” (59: 5)
Palm Basics
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The date palm, which is most commonly unbranched, can grow up to 30 meters. Its 4-5 meter long leaves surround the trunk in a spiral pattern. Branched forms of the date palm also occur (See Surah 13 above).
Date palms produce between five and ten bunches of dates per tree. A single large bunch may contain more than a thousand dates, and can weigh between 6 to 8 kg. They begin to bear fruit at 3 to 5 years, and reach full production after 10-12 years. Date palms can survive up to 150 years.
Date fruits vary in size, shape and colour. This drupe fruit is characterised by its thin skin, succulent, soft flesh and hard stone or seed in the middle. Unripe dates are green in colour, maturing to yellow, then reddish-brown when fully ripe. Each of these states (green to ripe) has been given a particular name in Arabic.
The tree is grown in a nearly rainless belt in the Sahara, as well as in the Middle East in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Iran and Iraq. The variety of dates that are produced amount to 600 according to a report by the Agronomy and Range Science Management Department at the University of California. In three date-producing countries, Morocco, Tunisia and Algeria, there is reported to be about 1000 varieties of dates, many of which experience neglect and face possible extinction as efforts are concentrated on prized varieties (Campbell).
The date market in the noble city of Madinah, the Souq al-Tumour, sells about 150 varieties, differing in color, shape, taste and price!
Many Uses and Benefits
The date palm has a range of uses. High-energy date fruits have been placed high on the diets of the health conscious. Though the fruit still has untapped potential in the food industry, it also lends itself to countless other uses.
Handicrafts, such as ropes and mats can be woven from the branches of the tree, while the bark is very useful as a building material. In early descriptions of the Prophet Muhammad’s (may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) mosque in Madinah, historians state that the leaves of the date palm were used as a roof covering.
Even the date stone is used as cattle feed, once it has been soaked and powdered. The juice from the date palm is an ingredient in baking and cooking.
Placed in the mouths of newborn babies, eaten at wedding celebrations and at the beginning and end of each day of fasting in Ramadan - dates are said to have great medicinal value. A medical study cited in the British Medical Journal (Haouari et al.) found that placing a sugary substance in the mouth of a baby reduces pain sensation and heart rate. The sunnah (Prophetic tradition) of putting chewed dates or honey into the mouths of newborn babies at the name-giving ceremony on the 7th day after the child's birth therefore carries great virtue and benefit.
According to a study by Al-Shahib and Marshall, in many ways, "dates may be considered as an almost ideal food, providing a wide range of essential nutrients and potential health benefits." The sugar content of ripe dates is about 80%; the remainder consists of protein, fat and mineral products including copper, sulfur, iron, magnesium and fluoric acid. Dates are high in fiber and an excellent source of potassium.
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| The Moroccan market boasts a large variety of dates |
World production of dates has almost tripled, while export has increased by 1.71% in the last 40 years indicating an increase in the demand for this nutritious fruit.
Dates are also reputed to be useful in treating respiratory disorders, as well as a salve and a heart stimulant. It is also believed to be of benefit to pregnant women. In Surah Maryam, Allah provided Maryam (peace be upon her), the mother of Prophet ‘Eesa (peace be upon him), with dates when she was experiencing discomfort and pain during the final stages of her pregnancy.
And shake towards thyself the trunk of the palm- tree It will let fall fresh ripe dates upon thee.
(Surah Maryam: 25)
In an article discussing the benefits of dates, Omar-Muhammad (2003) states that studies have shown that “dates contain certain stimulants which strengthen the muscles of the uterus in the last few months of pregnancy.” This would then assist in the dilation of the uterus at the time of delivery. Dates are also recommended for women in the post-partum period and lactating due to its value as a nutritious, high-energy food.
Narrated by Ibn 'Umar (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet (may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, "There is a tree among the trees which is similar to a Muslim (in goodness), and that is the date palm tree." (Bukhari, Vol.7 (65): 359)
The value of the date palm is still being understood. As an old Arab saying goes: The uses of the date palm are as many as the number of days in the year. The date palm is one of the many bounties that have been placed on this earth for us to benefit from. Next time we will look at az-Zaytoon, the olive, also discussed in the book, Plants of the Qur’an.
Sources:
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Agronomy and Range Science Management Department. The crop of the day: The Date, Phoenix dactylifera.
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Al-Shahib, W and Marshall, RJ, 1993. The fruit of the date palm: its possible use as the best food for the future? International Journal of Food and Science Nutrition, 54(4): 247-259.
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Campbell, FA, no date. GEF steps in as 1000 date varieties in danger.
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Farooqi, I, 1997. Plants of the Qur’an. Sidrah Publishers: India.
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Haouari, N, Wood, C, Griffiths, G and Levene, M, 1995. The analgesic effect of sucrose in full term infants: a randomized controlled trial. British Medical Journal 310:1498-1500. (http://www.bmj.com)
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Haykal, MI, 1990. The life of Muhammad. Crescent Publishing Company: India.
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Kasapis, S, no date. Dates: A fruit of promise for the food industry. http://www.nizwa.net/agr/dates/datefruit/datefruit.html
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Nasr, SH, 1976. Islamic Science: An illustrated guide. World of Islam Festival Publishing Company Ltd.: England.
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Omar-Muhammad, R, 2003. Dates: The crown of sweets. The Muslim Woman, 4(7): 26.
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Anon. Relief of Pain: A Medical Discovery. Islamic Voice, 15-04: 172.
