Before Supplicating

The Prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم has mentioned in one Hadith:

بَيْنَا رَسُوْلُ اللهِ صَلى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَ سَلَّمَ قاعِدٌ اِذْ دَخَلَ رَجُلٌ فصَلّى فقالَ: اللهُمَّ اغْفِرْ لِيْ وَ ارْحَمْنِيْ فقالَ رَسُوْلُ اللهِ صَلّى اللهُ عَليْهِ وَ سَلَّمَ: عَجَلتَ اَيُّهاَ المُصَلِي إذا صَلَّيْتَ فَقعَدْتَ فاحْمِدِ اللهَ بِمَا هُوَ اَهْلُهُ وَ صَلِّي عَلَيَّ ثُمَّ ادْعُهُ. قالَ ثُمَّ صَلَّى رَجُلٌ آخَرَ بَعْدَ ذلِكَ فَحَمِدَ اللهَ وَ صَلَّى عَلى النَّبِيِّ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَ سَلَّمَ فقالَ النَّبِيِّ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَ سَلَّمَ: اَيُّهَا المُصَلِّى ادْعُ تُجَبْ

Whilst the Prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم was once seated (in the Masjid) a man entered and offered his prayers thereafter he said (whilst supplicating): "O Allah! Forgive me and have mercy upon me."

(After hearing this) Rasoolullah صلى الله عليه و سلم responded: "O Musallee (performer of prayer)! You have rushed (into supplicating). When you finish praying and then you sit (to supplicate), then praise Allah in a manner He is worthy of and send blessings upon me and then ask from Him.”

 Thereafter, another man offered his prayers and then he praised Allah and sent salutations upon the Prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم. The Prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم said (to him): 

"O Musallee! Ask and you shall be granted"

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Collaborating Sites

Over time, I have begun to struggle in updating my blogs due to time constraints and becoming occupied with other commitments.

I also have a number of blogs which takes up a considerable amount of time to update on a regular basis.

I have therefore, with the advice of some friends, readers and fellow bloggers reverted back to my wordpress blog, zain121.wordpress.com.

I am consolidating all my blogs and publishing my posts at one central site. This will allow me to focus my attention at one site and therefore enable to post regularly.

However, at the same time, I will maintain the theme of my current blogs which were kept separate for this very reason.

In zain121.blogspot.com I was concentrating on life experiences and lessons learnt from them as well as the thoughts that run through my mind and remind me of my Creator.

In simplyislam.blogspot.com I introduced a range of educational Islamic material that people could refer to and benefit from.

And finally, zainulabedeen.blogspot.com was a collection of teachings and experiences from my days of studying at Darul Uloom (Islamic Institution) as well as the lessons I learnt I also include the words of wisdoms from my respected teachers and their biographies.

Also included on the wordpress site will be my collections from my zain121.freeforums.org site. This will include event notifications, book reviews, biographies, poetry and various other topics.

All in all, I pray that this is a positive step forward in the collaboration of the various different themes I have mentioned and that it proves to benefit me and its readers.

If you are receiving subscriptions from this site, please add a new subscription to www.zain121.wordpress.com for all future posts.

The Final Days of Ramadhan

The month of Ramadhan brings with it a spiritual intensity driven by the zeal of a believer. This zeal and spiritual presence is a blessing from Allah تعالى to aid every believer reach the zenith of worship through which one can taste the pleasure of Islam and the worship which one performs for the sake of Allah alone.

It is through His infinite mercy that He increases our physical strength in two folds; by relieving us from our physical strength, hence reducing our desires, and by also chaining the Shayateen (satans) during this sacred month.

The month of Ramadhan is a well known topic which is discussed by many individuals from many different angles to highlight its many attributes and significances.

At the same time, many people also highlight the importance of refraining from sin and ensuring the fast does not become void of blessings and rewards through the imperfection caused to it through sinning.

The last ten days of Ramadhan are also mentioned specifically as they carry great merit and rewards. It is during these nights that the Sunnah I’tikaah (seclusion) is performed in the Masaajids (Mosques) in order to further dedicate the short period left in the worship of Allah. It is also during this time that the majority of the scholars have stated, through references of the Ahadith, that Laylatul Qadr (Night of Power) is found.

These are great topics to discuss which I would have been honoured to write about had time allowed me to do so. However, the month of Ramadhan is now coming to an end and the weekend brings us closer to the final days of Ramadhan.

In this moment I would like to reiterate the purpose of Ramadhan and the main objective that is to be accomplished during this month:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ الصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِنْ قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ

O You who believe! Fasting has been obligatory upon you as it was made obligatory for those before you, so that you may become God-fearing

The purpose of this month is to ensure that a person who is fortunate to be present within this month progresses spiritually to a level which is superior to that than which he started. By doing so, he should have created a bond and link with Allah that would sustain until the following Ramadhan and years to come.

A person who neglects the above purpose, despite having fasted and committing to worship, may find that his Ramadhan will not only be deemed purposeless but will also descend upon him as a curse. This is clearly proven from a lengthy Hadeeth of the Prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم in which it is stated:

اِنَّ جِبْرَئِيْلَ عَرَضَ لِيْ فَقَالَ بَعُدَ مَنْ اَدْرَكَ رَمَضَانَ فَلَمْ يُغْفَرْ لَهُ قُلْتُ آمِيْنَ Jibraeel عليه السلام came to me and said, ‘Curse be upon him who acquired the month of Ramadhan and did not have his sins forgiven.’ To which I said ‘Aameen’

[Mustadrak al-Haakim]

It is clearly evident that a person who fails to acquire the forgiveness of Allah تعالى in this month will be deprived from the proximity of Allah and in turn Allah’s curse will be upon him and he will be distanced from Allah and His mercy.

Therefore, although the fasting has been made an obligation in this month and other prayers have been advised and encouraged; one should never fail to remember that the true purpose of Ramadhan is to better ourselves and gain Allah’s love and affection and through these gain His forgiveness.

It is never too late to acquire this affection of Allah and His forgiveness, even if the majority of this month has been wasted and spent in a manner not suitable for such a sublime month. The blessings of Ramadhan remain till the end of this month, in fact, it’s blessings increase in the last portion of this month within which the Night of Power is most likely to occur.

Therefore, whether we have spent these days of Ramadhan in concrete dedication to Allah or whether we have waivered in this month, it is essential to ensure and check and scrutinise our actions during this month and come to a conclusion as to whether Allah تعالى would be pleased with us and our actions. Whilst doing this we need to continuously seek His forgives and ask Him to pardon our shortcomings for indeed we can never do justice to His majesty.

As a final note, we should increase our recitation of the following Du’a (supplication) as it has been mentioned on the authority of Hadhrat Aisha رضي الله عنها that she asked the Prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم as to what she should recite if she was to acquire the Night of Power. Our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم answered with the following Du’a:

اللّهُمَّ اِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُوْ عَنَّا O Allah! You are forgiving, and you love forgiveness. So forgive me.

May Allah give us all the inclination and understanding to monitor our actions and assess as to whether we have achieved the purpose of Ramadhan. May He give us the strength to make amends to the extent of our ability and thereafter forgive our weaknesses and shortcomings through His blessings.

O Allah, save us from your curse which was conveyed through Jibraeel عليه السلام and sealed with acceptance by our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم. Give us the courage and strength to turn towards you in a manner which you have described as توبة نصوحا. Aameen.

Source: zain121 Forum - Ramadhan Section

The Greatest of Worships in the Month of Ramadhan - Post 6

Alhumdulillah, the month of Ramadhan has once again dawned upon us; a month which requires no introduction or whose benefits and virtues have been discussed in great detail in many places and are well known by the mass.

It is a month which required a great level of attention and dedication towards the worships which have been prescribed, advised and recommended by Allah and His Prophet Muhammad صلى الله عليه و سلم.

There are many acts of Ibaadah that can be performed and implemented in this month. It is a month where each act is generously rewarded; the obligatory acts are increased seventy times in reward and the optional acts receive the same reward the obligatory acts would in a month other than Ramadhan. Therefore, no deed is small or insignificant. In actual fact, effort should be made to remain in constant worship through this month even if it be through the verbal recitation of Istigfaar, Durood or any Tasbeeh.

Insha Allah, over the month I will aim to post articles relating to the month of Ramadhan so that each reader is able to take some benefit, Insha Allah, and reap rewards in this blessed month through various acts that pleases Allah سبحانه و تعالى.

Therefore, any Ibaadah which is performed in this month should not be undermined. But at the same time it should be noted that without abstaining from sins all of our rewards are washed away and cancelled out. The greatest of worships are those which are performed regularly and with the correct intention; acts whose rewards are retained are the ones which will truly benefit people. Thus the greatest act would be:

1. Refraining from Sins.

This act of worship is essential and by far the most important in the month of Ramadhan, the month of purification. The aim and goal of this month is to teach us self control and to strengthen our will power to refrain from the forbidden acts. Our will power and self control is fortified by refraining from those things which are normally permissible for us; such as food and drink. This is a simple message to show us that in reality we can refrain from pleasurable things such as food and drink when we set our minds to it then surely if we focus our will power and energy in refraining from ‘pleasurable’ sins we can surely accomplish it.

If we complete the month of Ramadhan and have not learnt self control and acquired the power to refrain from sin then we have completed the course without acquiring the certificate; we have not achieved the blessings and have not completed the goal of Ramadhan.

So much importance has been placed into acquiring this self restraint that our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم states:

مَنْ لَمْ يَدَعْ قَوْلَ الزُّورِ وَالْعَمَلَ بِهِ فَلَيْسَ لِلَّهِ حَاجَةٌ فِي أَنْ يَدَعَ طَعَامَهُ وَشَرَابَهُ

“Whoever does not give up lying and evil actions, then Allah is not in need of his leaving his food and drink”

In the same manner, it is narrated in another Hadeeth:

كم من صائم ليس له من صيامه الا الظمأ و كم من قائم ليس له من قيامه الا السهر

“Many of those who fast receive nothing from their fast except thirst and there are many who stand (in prayer) who receive nothing from their standing (in prayer) except sleepless nights”

So this fast is deemed unworthy in the site of Allah if its purpose is overlooked and not acquired for Allah is in no need for a slave to leave his food and drink.

The person who acquires many rewards in this month but at the same time commits sins or does not refrain from the evil habits he has become inclined towards then it is like that person who carries water in his bucket but at the same time creates a hole in the bucket (for each sin he commits).

It is better for a person to learn self control and use this month to rid himself from his evil habit of sinning than to complete the month of Ramadhan with many blessings and revert back to sinning after its completion.

Thus, the greatest act of worship in this month is to refrain from sinning and implementing a lifestyle that does not have scope for displeasing Allah; if this requires a whole month, then so be it.

It is no myth that a person who does not refrain from sinning in this month is deprived from forgiveness. It is therefore mentioned that the first portion of this month is dedicated to the 'Mercy and Blessings of Allah سبحانه و تعالى'. Whilst the second portion is dedicated to 'Forgiveness and Reformation'. Finally, the last portion of this month is regarded as 'Freedom from the Fire of Hell'

It is stated by the scholars that those who became worthy of Allah's mercy through doing virtuous acts and refraining from sin in the first portion of this are the same people who become subject to His forgiveness in the second portion. This forgiveness is then a means of salvation for them and becomes freedom from the fire of Hell in the third portion of this month.

Therefore, it is no myth that a person who does not refrain from sinning is in actual fact deprived from the forgiveness of Allah تعالى and therefore subject to punishment. This is emphasised in a Hadith where Allah تعالى sends down Jibra'eel عليه السلام to our Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم to seal the decision of Allah تعالى by saying Aameen to the following supplication:

ان جبرئيل عرض لي فقال بعد من ادرك رمضان فلم يغفر له قلت آمين

“Jibreel came to me and said, ‘Whoever reaches the month of Ramadan and does not have his sins forgiven and so enters the Fire, then may Allah distance him, say ameen” So I said “Ameen”

[Mustadrak Haakim]

May Allah تعالى save us all from His punishment and wrath which takes form of deprivation in this month and being overlooked when His slaves are pardoned and given salvation from the fire of Hell. May Allah تعالى make the leaving of sin a greater pleasure then the 'pleasure' of sinning and may He make the bitterness of sinning known to us through experiencing the sweetness of Imaan. Aameen.

Possible Method 1:

This act of worship can be achieved through firm intention as well as physical effort. Daily we can sit and make a list of the sins that we commit on a regular basis and cross of these one by one or as many as we can at a time. We should then ensure that we seek the forgiveness of Allah and never revert to these sins again.

Possible Method 2:

Along with the above list, or as a separate method we should make a list of all the sins we committed during the day and ensure that an effort is made to eradicate ourselves of these sins. At times we commit sins through mere habit and boredom and don’t even realise that these sins are being committed. At many a times, these sins do not even benefit us and in fact cause us harm and inconvenience.

Different Sins:

Sins are addictive and come in different natures. Therefore, it may not be as simple as making a list and crossing out one after another; some sins require time whilst others require special aid and support.

For example, sins relating to monetary aspects such as interest based loans and having taken the div align=“right”s of others will require time to repay. However a firm intention should be made and every effort should be made to repay these loans and rights.

Similarly, some sins will require help from the ‘Ulamaa or Shuyookh (Spiritual Guides). These can be sins which we cannot overcome ourselves and require a method and monitoring to ensure its elimination. Sins such as forbidden glances at the opposite gender, the leaving of Salaah, lying, anger, pride and arrogance are just a few that may require assistance from another. Increase the reward in leaving the sin by ensuring help is sought; the greater the effort the greater the reward and pleasure or ridding from the sin.

There is never enough time in Ramadhan to worship and therefore people are reluctant to sit by the computer and read through articles and articles and would rather dedicate their time to reading Qur’an or Nawafil (optional prayers). Therefore, Insha Allah, I will aim to keep articles concise and mention one deed at a time so that implementing is easier and much time isn’t taken.

Finally, your Du’a is requested during this blessed month. May Allah accept our efforts in this month. Aameen.

Ramadhan - The Purpose of Fasting

شـهـر رمـضـان

The month of Ramadhan is approaching and the majority of us will have to continue our usual lifestyles to some extent; we will have to attend school whilst others will have to go to work; the women in the house will also have their daily household duties of cooking and cleaning.

However, the month of Ramadhan necessitates and demands a change in our day-to-day life; a change which will enforce upon us self control and spiritual recognition.

Ramadhan brings with it opportunities for a fresh start; it is a cocktail of mercy, forgiveness, salvation and blessings. This cocktail contains all the ingredients that are required for spiritual increment and fortification.

Therefore, a person is required, by Shari’ah, to ensure that preparations have been made to fulfil all the requirements for an uplifting Ramadhan, and that a person continues to strive in the month of Ramadhan to gain the salvation from the Fire of Hell.

As mentioned above, these preparations are an obligation upon each and every man who is present in the month of Ramdhan:

شَهْرُ رَمَضَانَ الَّذِي أُنْزِلَ فِيهِ الْقُرْآنُ هُدًى لِلنَّاسِ وَبَيِّنَاتٍ مِنَ الْهُدَى وَالْفُرْقَانِ فَمَنْ شَهِدَ مِنْكُمُ الشَّهْرَ فَلْيَصُمْهُ وَمَنْ كَانَ مَرِيضًا أَوْ عَلَى سَفَرٍ فَعِدَّةٌ مِنْ أَيَّامٍ أُخَرَ يُرِيدُ اللَّهُ بِكُمُ الْيُسْرَ وَلا يُرِيدُ بِكُمُ الْعُسْرَ وَلِتُكْمِلُوا الْعِدَّةَ وَلِتُكَبِّرُوا اللَّهَ عَلَى مَا هَدَاكُمْ وَلَعَلَّكُمْ تَشْكُرُونَ

[Surah al-Baqarah 2:185]

The month of Ramadhan is that within which the Qur'an was sent down, (it is) a guide for mankind and (contains) clear signs of guidance and differentiating (between right and wrong). Therefore, whosoever is present during this month should fast; and whosoever is ill, or on a journey, then the prescribed period (should be made up) in other days. Allah intends ease and He does not intend any difficulties (upon you). (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him In that He has guided you; and so that you may be grateful.

In the above verse Allah states that Ramadhan is the month within which the Qur’an was revealed; the book of Allah, which contains the qualities of guidance and differentiating between right and wrong. It can be depicted from this portion of the verse that the month of Ramadhan also contains the same qualities as the Qur’an and therefore it was revealed within this month to emphasise these qualities.

Ramadhan is a month of guidance, it endeavours to make man realise the path he is upon and what he can do to rectify errors in this path; effort in this month will allow an individual to manoeuvre from the path of worldly desires and satisfaction to that which leads to Allah and His pleasure.

Similarly, the month of Ramadhan improvises in increasing the judgement of an individual in a manner that it stimulates the thinking of a believer towards the commandment of Allah during the month of Ramadhan. In this month, the main prohibitions, during fasting, are of eating, drinking and intercourse. However, these are activities which are not prohibited for mankind in any other month. Thus through this prohibition we are taught a greater level of self control for an entire month. We strive to strengthen this self control in such a manner that along with those things which are impermissible in all twelve months, we also refrain from other activities which are impermissible specifically for this month.

One our will power has been strengthened, our spiritual status elevated, our self restraint fortified, our attitudes changed, our lifestyles dedicated and our vision and aim contains nothing but the pleasure of Allah through the hard work and effort placed within this month we will have achieved the true blessings of this month and will be able to continue throughout the remaining eleven months worshipping and pleasing Allah.

In the above Qur’anic verse, Allah clearly states that a person who is present in the month of Ramadhan is required to fast the obligatory fasts; this order entails the requirement to maintain the etiquettes, manners and necessities for of the fast; for fasting literally means “to abstain.” This meaning of abstention and refraining has been mentioned in the Qur’an in the following words:

فَكُلِي وَاشْرَبِي وَقَرِّي عَيْنًا فَإِمَّا تَرَيِنَّ مِنَ الْبَشَرِ أَحَدًا فَقُولِي إِنِّي نَذَرْتُ لِلرَّحْمَنِ صَوْمًا فَلَنْ أُكَلِّمَ الْيَوْمَ إِنْسِيًّا َ

[Surah Maryam – 19:26]

So eat and drink and be consoled, and if you see any human being, say: ‘Indeed I have vowed a fast unto the Most Beneficent (Allah) so I shall not speak to any human being this day.’

In the above verse the word صوما is indicating that Hadhrat Maryam عليها السلام had intended to refrain from talking as opposed to eating and drinking which is evident from the beginning of the verse, ‘eat and drink and be consoled.’ Therefore, refraining from eating and drinking alone cannot be regarded as صوم but there are other criterions which have to be taken in consideration and upheld also.

The above has also been emphasised in a Hadeeth:

ليس الصيام من الأكل والشرب، إنما الصيام من اللغو والرفث، فإن سابك أحد أو جهل عليك فقل: إني صائم.. إني صائم

[Ibn Hibaan]

صيام is not the name of forsaking food and drink, in reality, it is the forsaking of idle and shameless talks. Thus if someone swears you of acts in an ignorant manner with you, then say, ‘I am fasting, I am fasting.’

Similarly, it has been mentioned in another Hadeeth:

كُلُّ عَمَلِ ابْنِ آدَمَ لَهُ اِلاَّ الصَّوْمَ فَإِنَّه لِيْ وَ اَنَا اَجْزِيْ بِهِ، والصِّيَامُ جُنَّةٌ، فَإذَا كَانَ يَوْمَ صَوْمِ أَحَدِكُمْ فَلاَ يَرْفُثْ وَلاَ يَصْخَبْ؛ فَإنْ سَابَهُ أَحَدٌ أوْ قَاتَلَهُ، فَلْيَقُلْ: إنِّي صَائِمٌ، إنِّي صَائِمٌ؛ وَ الَّذِيْ نَفْسُ مُحَمَّدٌ بِيَدِهْ لَخُلُُوْفُ فَمِ الصَّائِمِ اَطْيَبُ عِنْدَ اللهِ مِنْ رِّيْحِ المِسْكِ؛ لِلصَّائِمِ فَرْحَتَانِ يَفْرَحُهُما: اِذَا اَفْطَرَ فَرِحَ بِفِطْرِهِ، وَاِذَا لَقِيَ رَبَّهُ فَرِحَ بِصَوْمِهِ

Every (good) deed of the son of Adam is for him except for fasting; for indeed that is for me and I shall recompense for it. And fasting is a shield (from sins and consequently Hell Fire). Therefore, when any one of you is fasting, let him not utter obscenities or raise his voice with immoral talks, and if anyone should insult him or desires to fight or argue with him, then he (the fasting person) should say, ‘I am fasting, I am fasting.’ By Him within whose hands lies the life of Muhammad, the smell from the mouth of a fasting person is more pleasing to Allah than the fragrance of Musk. For the fasting person there are two times he will be pleased; When he breaks his fast he will be pleased and (the second time) when he meets his Lord, he will be pleased with his fasting.

[متفق عليه]

It is clear from the above Hadeeth that the fast has been made obligatory upon a person so that it can act as a shield from sins and through its blessings and honour a person refrains from any act of sin and, by doing so, attain Taqwa (piety).

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ الصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِنْ قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ َ

O you who believe! Fasting has been made an obligation upon you as it was (made obligatory) for those before you, so that you may acquire Taqwa (piety).

[Surah al-Baqarah – 2:183]

So what is Taqwa? It is a term that can never be easily translated into English; it is a compound of many characteristics, the most common are the fear of Allah and the refraining from sins.

سَأَلَ عُمَرُ كَعْبًارَضِيَ الله عَنْهُمَا فَقَالَ لَهُ: مَا التَّقْوى؟ فَقَالَ كَعْبٌ: يَا أَمِيْرُ المُؤْمِنِيْنَ أَمَّا سَلَكْتَ طَرِيْقًا فِيْهِ شَوْكٌ؟ قَالَ: نَعَمْ. قَالَ: فَمَاذَا فَعَلْتَ؟ فَقَالَ عُمَرُ : أَشَمِّرُ عَنْ سَاقَيَّ، وَانْظُرُ إِلى مَوَاضِعِ قَدَمَيَّ وَأُقَدِّمُ قَدَمًا وَأُؤَخِّرُ أُخْرى مَخَافَةً أَنْ تُصِيْبَنِيْ شَوْكَةٌ. فَقَالَ كَعْبٌ: تِلْكَ هِيَ التَّقْوى.

Hadhrat Umar once questioned Hadhrat Ka’b رضي الله عنهما, so he said, ‘What is Taqwa’, in reply Hadhrat Ka’b questioned, ‘O leader of the believers! Have you ever treaded upon a thorny path?’ Hadhrat Umar replied, ‘yes’. Thereafter Hadhrat Ka’b asked, ‘What did you do?’ In reply, Hadhrat Umar stated, ‘I gathered my clothing and lifted it up to my shin, thereafter I kept my glance towards my feet and I put one foot forward followed by the other whilst fearing that a thorn should prick me.’ Hadhrat Ka’b responded, ‘This is Taqwa’.

Meaning that we should become such that our gaze is constantly upon the path we are walking, the path leading to Jannah, ensuring that we take full precautions whilst upon this path that Shaytaan does not deviate us from this path. This is the purpose of Ramadhan, to instill Taqwa within the hearts of the believers so that every month, be it Ramadhan or not, we are constantly aware of the presence of Allah and respond to that awareness in the correct manner, by observing our obedience to Him and refraining from matters that will displease and anger Him.

However, in order to acquire this Taqwa we have to ensure that our fasts are in accordance to the teaching of the Shari’ah, that we observe the commandments placed by Allah in regards to our fasts and our daily lives and avoid those matters and actions which will classify our fasts as void or devoid us from obtaining the benefits of the fast. Our beloved Messenger صلى الله عليه و سلم has indicated towards these criterions in the following words:

مَنْ لَمْ يَدَعْ قَوْلَ الزُّوْرِ وَ الْعَمَلَ بِهِ فَلَيْسَ للهِ حَاجَةٌ فِي أَن يَّدَعَ طَعَامَهُ وَ شَرَابَهُ

[Bukhari]

Whoever does not give up false speech and acting upon it, Allah has no need of his giving up his food and drink.

And in another Hadeeth it is mentioned:

رُبَّ صَائِمٍ لَيْسَ لَهُ مِنْ صِيَامِهِ اِلاَّ الظَّمَأُ

[Bukhari??]

There are many who fast but who do not gain anything from their fast except for thirst.

In the first Hadeeth the Prophet صلى الله عليه و سلم has mentioned two qualities that deems the rewards of a person negated; the act of lying and acting upon these lies. The Muhaditheen (commentators) have mentioned that the by قول الزور the meaning is that of every sin committed through the tongue whilst عمل به refers to any sin which is carried out. A person who commits such atrocities in the month of Ramadhan will deprive himself of the rewards of fasting and its benefits and consequently the purpose of the fast will not be achieved; and if this is the case then Allah is in no need of Him leaving his food and drink for the leaving of the eating and drinking is not the aim but to achieve control over our Nafs (Self Desire) is the actual intent.

In the latter Hadeeth there is further emphasis on this notion within which our Beloved Nabi صلى الله عليه و سلم mentions the state and rewards of those people who outwardly perform good deeds in Ramadhan by fasting whilst neglecting the actual purpose of these fasts, he صلى الله عليه و سلم states that there are many people who fast during the month of Ramadhan but they achieve nothing from these fasts except for hunger and thirst. Meaning that their fast does not bear any reward neither does it elevate their ranks or increase their spiritual status; instead the only achievement is that which they observed and took consideration over, the leaving of food and drink.

Our days of fasting and our days of not fasting should never be the same:

وَ لاَ تَجْعَلْ يَوْمَ صَوْمِكَ وَ يَوْمَ فطْرِكَ سَوَاءٌ

Make not you days of fasting the same as the days you do not observe a fast.

We should remember that just as the month of Sha’baan is a month for the preparation for Ramadhan, similarly, the month of Ramadhan is for the preparation for the remaining eleven months, which in turn are for the preparation of the grave and Hereafter. A person who fails to prepare for Ramadhan may lose the blessings of the month of Ramadhan and the person who misses the blessings of Ramadhan will falter through the eleven months and in turn will destroy his Hereafter. It is for this reason that Rasoolullah صلى الله عليه و سلم states in the famous Hadith where he ascended the Mimbar and said Aameen:

إن جبريل عليه السلام عرض لي فقال : بعدا لمن أدرك رمضان فلم يغفر له .قلت : آمين

[Haakim]

Indeed Jibraeel عليه السلام approached me and said, ‘Destruction be to that person who attains the month of Ramadhan but is not forgiven. I replied, Aameen.

May Allah give us all the inclination to acquire Taqwa through Ramadhan and reap the benefits of this blessed month. Aameen.

Source: Zain121 Forum

zain121 - Forum

السلام عليكم

I have recently created a new forum for members to be able to seek a different Islamic information.

This forum has been created to achieve a different purpose to other Islamic forums on the internet.

The aim of the forum is not to provide the Muslim community with a place to be able to interact with other Muslim's and benefit from the various and vast knowledge that other members hold.

It is neither a place that will be filled with articles, talks, audios and sections that are found on other forums.

The main objective and aim of this forum is to educate the Ummah in regards to the detailed information and knowledge of the religion of Islam, going, at times, into depth and presenting the pearls of wisdom safeguarded from our pious predecessors.

It will be a place where the Qur'an and Hadeeth will be discussed in depth and its relevance to today's world will be depicted.

Whatever is produced on this forum will be from the Shari'ah and I pray that it is beneficial to the Muslim Ummah as well as those who seek the understanding of Islam.

This forum is an attempt to gather Knowledge of different areas of Islam and present them in a range of depth which will be suitable for beginners as well as people who have a greater level of understanding and Knowledge.

The link to the forum is: Zain121 - Forum.

May Allah make it a source of salvation for me as well as the readers. Aameen.

فاطمة A Daughter

"On the Day of Qiyaamah you will be called by your (own) names and the names of your fathers. Therefore keep good names."

[Sunan Abi Dawood]

One of the teachings of our beloved Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم is that we should choose good names. It is also mentioned in a Hadith that to whomever a child is born to they have a responsibility of giving that child a good name.

The 'goodness' of a name determined by either its meaning or to whom the name belonged to.

The Messenger of Allah صلي الله عليه و سلم said,

"Whoever is named after me with the hope of being blessed, he will be blessed and will be in peace till the day of Qiyaamat."

The name محمد holds great spirituality, rank and status because it is the name of the most beloved and final messenger of Allah. It is due to these reasons that the name holds great rank.

Similarly, the names of the Sahaaba رضه الله عنهم also hold rank and status as well has having an influence and effect on the name-bearer.

The name and personality I want to discuss today is فاطمة, a distinguished personality in history who has set a peak example for all women. Insha Allah in this post I will mention some of her characteristics as a daughter to the Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم. Although justice cannot be done to her character and her rank cannot be described in words, I pray that the short description of her life will make us realise the qualities she possessed as a daughter and the peak she set to all daughters alike.

There are many narrations and opinions regarding the year she was born. Many say she was born before Prophethood was given to her father and many say that her birth took place before Prophethood. Those who say she was born before Prophethood vary in the amount of years. One of the strongest opinions is that she was born five years before Prophethood, when the Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم was thirty-five years of age.

Her mother was Hadraht Khadija رضي الله عنها and she had three elder sisters, Ruqayya, Umm Kulthum and Zaynab رضي الله عنهم who were all married. Although Hadhrat Khadija رضي الله عنها gave birth to three boys, Qasim, Tayyib and Tahir رضي الله عنهم, they passed away at a very young age and therefore Fatimah رضي الله عنها had no elder brothers to look after her.

In the household of the Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم lived ‘Ali رضي الله عنه who was the cousin of Hadhrat Fatimah رضي الله عنها and also Zayd ibn Haritha رضي الله عنه who was the freed slave of the Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم. Both of these were like the brothers of Fatimah رضي الله عنه. Baraka, the maid servant of Hadhrat Amina رضي الله عنها was also in the household and occasionally the house would be frequented by the elder sisters of Hadhrat Fatimah رضي الله عنها.

As a daughter, she was the closest and most beloved to our Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم. When Hadhrat Aisha رضي الله عنها was asked who the most beloved person was to our Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم she replied that it was Fatimah رضي الله عنها and from the men it was her husband, Hadhrat ‘Ali رضي الله عنه.

Her childhood was during the first years of Prophethood where the Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم had but a few followers and the enemies of Islam were at large. Many a times she would see her father being physically abused by the disbelievers as well as verbally abused.

On one occasion the disbelievers placed a load of filthy intestines on him and Hadhrat Fatimah رضي الله عنها removed it not fearing the group of enemies around her. On another occasion when the Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم was at the Ka’bah the enemies of Islam started beating him and once again Hadhrat Fatimah رضي الله عنها went to call Hadhrat Abu Bakr رضي الله عنه to his aid. In her young age Hadhrat Fatimah رضي الله عنها had seen many of the torments of the disbelievers that took place against her father, at times she would see him return home with dust all over his clothes and would hasten to clean him whilst tears would roll down from her eyes.

Her love for her father was immense and could not be described. This love was equally matched by that of the Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم for her and he would show her equal respect. After the death of her beloved mother, Hadhrat Khadija رضي الله عنها she made a great effort to comfort her father and immediately began to take care of his affairs and needs. Her efforts were such that she became known as ام ابيها (Umm Abeeha – The mother of her father).

When the Prophet of Allah صلي الله عليه و سلم would be hungry he would frequent the house of Hadhrat Fatimah رضي الله عنها in search of food only to find that her house would also be bare of food, he صلي الله عليه و سلم would then return to his house. When receiving any food he would first go to Hadhrat Fatimah رضي الله عنها and give her whatever he صلي الله عليه و سلم had received. Hadhrat Fatimah رضي الله عنها would do the same for her father and it would be in this manner that they passed their days.

Her suffering as a child were due to the fact that she was the daughter of the Prophet of Allah صلي الله عليه و سلم and a believer in his message. However, never did she complain to the sufferings she received.

The proposal of Hadhrat ‘Ali رضي الله عنه and the silence of Hadhrat Fatimah رضي الله عنهاwas the beginning of a new life for both great personalities. The Prophet of Allah صلي الله عليه و سلم performed the Nikaah ceremony himself and told Hadhrat Fatimah رضي الله عنها that he had married her to the person in his family who was the dearest to him.

This is an attempt to provide a brief summary of the life of Hadhrat Fatimah رضي الله عنها as a daughter. Insha Allah Sister Mujahidah an Nafs will do a much greater job in providing more articles on this topic.

May Allah give us all the inclination to take lessons from the life of Hadhrat Fatimah رضي الله عنها and adopt them into our lives. Aameen.

‏عن ‏ ‏المسور بن مخرمة ‏ ‏رضي الله عنهما ‏أن رسول الله ‏ ‏صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ ‏قال
‏ ‏فاطمة ‏ ‏بضعة مني فمن أغضبها أغضبني

"Fatimah is a piece of my flesh (is my beloeved),
who ever angers her has angered me"

Tasawwuf & Tazkiyya - Sufism & Reformation

A recent comment on my zain121 blog propelled me to writing a short description on Tasawwuf and Tazkiya; its meaning, methods, purpose and reality in Islam.

Tasawwuf and Tazkiya are regarded, by some, as a completely separate section, department and form of worship in Islam. It is regarded as a path that one ‘specialises’ in. However, in reality every part, section and action in Islam contains the essence of Tasawwuf and requires its presence.

Tasawwuf and Tazkiya are usually translated in the English language as Sufism or Reformation of the Self and its master is regarded as a Sheikh or a Sufi, whilst the followers of the masters are regarded as Mureeds.

There is a variation of opinions regarding the etymology of Tasawwuf in the Arabic language. Some regard it to originate from the word Saff (صَفَّ), whilst others from Safa (صَفَا), Suffa (صُفَا) or Soof (صُوف).

Saff means the row in congregation prayer which in denotes to the piety of the people that stand in the first row in prayer whilst; Safa refers to purity and cleansing. It is an indication towards the cleansing of the heart and the efforts placed by the Sufi in cleansing his inner self.

Suffa is the Arabic word for platform. Its indication is towards the residents of the platform of the Masjid Nabawi. These people were those who dedicated their lives for the knowledge of Islam and bore the difficulties of huger etc.

Finally, the word Soof, which has also been mentioned to be the one which is most grammatically correct, means wool. Once again its reference is towards the Sahaba رضي الله عنهم who used to wear woollen clothing either as a sign of their detachment from and discomfort with the material world or due to their dedication towards the religion of Islam whilst refraining from the pleasure of the world. The rough woollen cloak without any undergarments would be constant irritation to the skin. This pricking of the skin by the wool would keep the wearer in discomfort. This would serve as a constant reminder that the seeker has nothing to do with the comforts of this world, his only goal being to please Allah.

Another word used for Tasawwuf, as mentioned above, is Tazkiyah. Similarly, the word Ihsaan has also been used. These are the synonyms of Tasawwuf and denote the same principle of Sufism and spiritualism. It is these words that have come in many places in the Qur’an and Ahadeeth:

TAZKIYAH & TASAWWUF IN THE QUR’AN:

It should be noted that even if the word Tasawwuf or Tazkiyah did not exist in the time of our beloved Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم its reality and practice always existed amongst the Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم, the Sahaba رضي الله عنهم and those who followed their examples. The word Tasawwuf, as explained by Ibn Khaldun, is “the name of ‘total dedication’ to Allah the Most High. Thus, its existence in the time of our beloved Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم was essential and obvious taking into consideration his rank, status and devotion”.

The actual word of Tasawwuf does not exist in the Qur’an within context. However, there are many places in the Qur’an where the synonym of the word has appeared or places where its notion and concept have been discussed.

Following are but a few examples of the mention of Tasawwuf in the Qur’an:

قَدْ أَفْلَحَ مَن زَكَّاهَا

“Indeed he has achieved success who purifies it (the soul)”

[Surah as-Shams - 91:9]

هُوَ الَّذِي بَعَثَ فِي الْأُمِّيِّينَ رَسُولًا مِّنْهُمْ يَتْلُو عَلَيْهِمْ آيَاتِهِ وَيُزَكِّيهِمْ وَيُعَلِّمُهُمُ الْكِتَابَ وَالْحِكْمَةَ وَإِن كَانُوا مِن قَبْلُ لَفِي ضَلَالٍ مُّبِينٍ

"It is He who sent among the unlettered ones a Messenger from amongst themselves who recites upon them His Verses, purifies them and teaches them the Book (Qur'an) and Hikmah (wisdom). And verily, before this, they had been in manifest error."

[Surah Jumu’ah – 62:2]

جَنَّاتُ عَدْنٍ تَجْرِي مِن تَحْتِهَا الْأَنْهَارُ خَالِدِينَ فِيهَا وَذَلِكَ جَزَاء مَن تَزَكَّى

"Everlasting Gardens, under which rivers flow, wherein they will abide forever: such is the reward of those who purify themselves."

[Surah Ta Ha – 20:76]

وَلَا تَزِرُ وَازِرَةٌ وِزْرَ أُخْرَى وَإِن تَدْعُ مُثْقَلَةٌ إِلَى حِمْلِهَا لَا يُحْمَلْ مِنْهُ شَيْءٌ وَلَوْ كَانَ ذَا قُرْبَى إِنَّمَا تُنذِرُ الَّذِينَ يَخْشَوْنَ رَبَّهُم بِالغَيْبِ وَأَقَامُوا الصَّلَاةَ وَمَن تَزَكَّى فَإِنَّمَا يَتَزَكَّى لِنَفْسِهِ وَإِلَى اللَّهِ الْمَصِيرُ

"And a burdened soul cannot bear the burden of another and if one weighed down by burden should call another to carry his it they shall not carry in, even though he is closely related. You warn only those who fear their Lord in secret and keep up prayer; and whoever purifies himself, he purifies himself only for (the good of) his own soul; and to Allah is the eventual coming."

[Surah Fatir - 35:18]

قَدْ أَفْلَحَ مَن تَزَكَّى

"Indeed whosoever purifies himself has achieved success."

[Surah al-A'laa – 87:14]

فَقُلْ هَل لَّكَ إِلَى أَن تَزَكَّى

"Then say, do you desire to purify yourself?"

[Surah Naziaat - 79:18]

الَّذِي يُؤْتِي مَالَهُ يَتَزَكَّى

"He who spends his wealth for increase in self-purification."

[Surah Layl - 92:18]

TAZKIYAH & TASAWWUF IN THE HADEETH:

قال: فأخبرني عن الإحسان, قال “أن تعبد الله كأنك تراه, فإن لم تكن تراه فإنه يراك

He (Hadhrat Jibreel عليه السلام) questioned, “What is Ihsaan?” He صلي الله عليه و سلم replied, “That you worship Allah as though you are able to see Him, and if you are not able to see Him then (to bear in mind) that He is watching you."

[Saheeh Muslim]

ان الله لا ينظر الى صوركم ولا الى اجسامكم ولكن ينظر الى قلوبكم وأعمالكم

"Indeed Allah does not look towards your appearance and neither towards your bodies (physique) but instead He looks towards your hearts and actions."

ان القلوب لتصدأ كما يصدأ الحديد قيل وما جلاءها يا رسول الله، قال ذكر الموت وتلاوة القرآن

"The Prophet of Allah صلي الله عليه و سلم stated, “Indeed the hearts rust just as metal does.” It was asked, “What is its treatment O Messenger of Allah صلي الله عليه و سلم?” He صلي الله عليه و سلم replied, “The remembrance of death and the recitation of the Qur’an."

These are just a few of the Ahadeeth that have a connection with Tasawwuf and Sufism. Any Hadeeth that relates to the heart will have some sort of connection with spirituality and ‘Tazkiya’. Therefore, there are many Ahadeeth that contain this notion.

In addition to the above mentioned, there are various other topics related to the topics of Tasawwuf; these include topics such as methods of finding a Guide (Shaykh), things to look for in a Shaykh, methods of reformation, chains of Sufism etc. Insha Allah, if the opportunity arises I will mention these on another occasion.

May Allah guide us all and give us the inclination to reform ourselves so that when we appear before Him we come with a قلب سليم (sound heart). Aameen.

Collection of Treasures - Blog

For some time I have been preparing a blog dedicated to my Darul Uloom and teachers. From even before enrolling until present I have received a lot from my Madrassah, in the form of guidance, knowledge, support as well as advice.

The Madrassah, over the years, has provided many students with various knowledge through many different teachers. However, along with this knowledge it has guided its students in many matters relating to this world and the Hereafter.

The principles of the Madrassah were clear that knowledge without practice was not regarded as knowledge at all. In fact, it was as though a donkey was made to carry books on its back; it becomes a burden and bears no fruit. In effort to avoid being in the above category, an effort was made on each student to provide them with spiritual guidance and understanding of the responsibilities this knowledge brought along with it. Without such guidance, I am certain that our knowledge would come from our mouths and surpass through the listeners' ears; but practice creates sincerity and through sincerity do these words fall upon the heart.

My Darul Uloom made every effort to provide us with loving, caring teachers, who regarded us as not mere students but also like their sons. Through their dedicated efforts and loving nature they taught us the knowledge contained within the books through their various different personalities and whilst doing so teaching us much more than can be found within books.

The environment we were provided to learn and seek the knowledge Islam within is non-comparable and inexpressible; the only expression I can say is that it became our first home whilst our residence became our second home. The relaxation and comfort we received and continue to receive is a blessing of our Madrassah that cannot be explain but only experienced.

Today, I feel obliged to these teachers for giving me the honour of being their student. I pray to Allah that I remain their student for eternity and am able to accumulate their pearls of wisdom and also bring them into practice.

In an effort to preserve my days at the Madrassah and to spread the wisdom of my respected teachers, I have made an attempt to post some of their words and advices on a new blog, www.zainulabedeen.blogspot.com. I pray that its message and posts are beneficial to the students of knowledge as they have been to me.

I pray to Allah to grant the Madrassah strength upon strength and to make it successful in all its aims. May He spread the work of the Jame'ah across the globe. Aameen.

EID MUBARAK

As Salaamu Alaykum,

Just a quick message to all readers to say Eid Mubarak. May Allah make this day special and full of blessings. Aameen.

Do remember me in your Du'as on this blessed day.

Wasalaam

Note to Readers

As Salaamu Alaykum,

It has been nearly been a month since I have posted on this site. Insha Allah, I shall start my posts once again in the near future continuing with the Nikaah / marriage Series.

I pray that all my readers are in the best of health and Imaan.

Please remember me in your Du'as.

Wasalaam.

Eid Mubarak

As Salaamu Alaykum,

Alhumdulillah, Allah has bestowed upon us a day of celebration and rejoice; it is a day which is given to us by Allah to after our 'dedication', 'hard work' and 'undivided worship' in the month of Ramadhan.

As much a celebration, Eid is also a day within which Muslims around the world show gratitude and thankfulness towards Allah for giving them strength, courage, life and an opportunity to worship Him with devotion during the month of Ramadhan and by doing so strengthening their Faith and Imaan.

Eid is a day where those things which were impermissible for a Muslim during the day in the month of Ramadhan have now become permissible; namely food and drink. It is a day where Allah forbids us from refraining from food and drink and instead celebrate whilst remaining within the boundaries of Islam.

This is the 'normal' and 'usual' explanation of Eid. However, there is also another side of Eid.

Eid is like the commencement of a 'new year'; in essence a beginning of a new 'spiritual year'. The day of Eid is the day we leave the month of Ramadhan and continue what we were doing within that month with dedication. The day of Eid begins for us a year that should be spent in the path of Allah to obtain His mercy, forgiveness and pleasure.

It is from this day forward that one will see whether his Ramadhan was accepted by Allah or rejected. If he was successful then he will see a change in his life, a change for the better; and Allah forbid, if he is swayed further away from the path then his Ramadhan was as just an 'obligation' which he discharged without reaping its benefits or rewards.

May Allah make us from those whose Ramadhan and its worships were accepted and may He forgive us for our shortcomings. May He grant us the strength to worship Him with sincerity and total devotion for the remaining months and may He grant us life so that we are blessed with the bouties of the month of Ramadhan once again. Aameen.

EID MUBARAK to all the readers. May this day, and the days to follow, be filled with joy, happiness and glad tidings and blessings from Allah. May Allah's mercy be with us all and may His happiness be our goal. Aameen.

Wasalaam

A Few Du'as For RamadhanPost 6

Following are a few Du'as that one should commit to memory or keep at hand for the month of Ramadhan:

When beginning the fast- Suhur

وَبِصَوْمِ غَدٍ نَّوَيْتُ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ

Wa bi-sawmi ghadin nawaytu min shahri Ramadhan

I intend to keep the fast for tomorrow in the month of Ramadan

or

نَوَيْتُ أنْ أصُوْمَ غَدًا لِلهِ تعَالي مِنْ فَرْضِ رَمَضَانَ هَذَا

Nawaytu an asooma ghadan lillahi ta'aala min fardhi Ramadhana haadha.

I intend to fast tomorrow for the sake of Allah Ta'ala from the obligatory fasts of this Ramadhan.

or

نَوَيْتُ أنْ أصُوْمَ هَذَا الْيَوْمَ لِلهِ تَعَالي مِنْ فَرْضِ رَمَضَانَ

Nawaytu an asooma hadhal yowma lillahi ta'aala min fardhi Ramadhana

I intend to fast today for the sake of Allah Ta'ala from the obligatory fasts of Ramadhan.

or

اللهُمَّ أصُوْمُ غَدًا لَكَ فَغْفِرْلِيْ مَا قَدَّمْتُ وَ مَا أخَّرْتُ

Allahumma asoomu ghadan laka, Faghfirli maa qaddamtu wa maa akkhartu

O Allah, I am fasting tomorrow for Your sake, so forgive my past sins and future sins.


When breaking the fast- Iftar

اللَّهُمَّ إنِّى لَكَ صُمْتُ وَبِكَ آمَنْتُ [وَعَلَيْكَ تَوَكَّلْتُ] وَعَلَى رِزْقِكَ اَفْطَرْتُ

Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa bika aamantu [wa 'alayka tawakkaltu] wa 'alaa rizqika aftartu

O Allah! I fasted for You and I believe in You [and I put my trust in You] and I break my fast with Your sustenance.

or

ذَهَبَ الظَّمَأُ وَ ابْتَلَّتِ الْعُرُوقُ، وَ ثَبَتَ الأجْرُ إنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ

dhahabadh dhama-u wabtallatil 'urooqu, wa tha-batal ajru insha Allah

The thrist is gone, the veins are moistened and the reward is confirmed, if Allah [Ta'ala] wills.

or

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسأَلُكَ بِرَحْمَتِكَ الَّتِي وَسِعَتْ كُلَّ شَيْءٍ أَنْ تَغْفِرَ لِي

Allaahumma inni as-aluka birahmatika allati wasi'at kulla shay-in an taghfira li

O Allah, I ask You by Your mercy which envelopes all things, that You forgive me


Du'a to be recited in between every 4 Rak'ats of Taraweeh

سُبْحَانَ ذِيْ الْمُلْكِ وَ الْمَلَكُوْتِ
سُبْحَانَ ذِيْ العِزَّةِ وَ العَظْمَةِ وَ الهَيْبَةِ وَ القُدْرَةِ وَ الكِبْرِيَاءِ وَ الجَبَرُوْتِ
سُبْحَانَ المَلِكِ الحَيِّ الَّذِيْ لا يَنَامُ وَ لا يَمُوْتُ
سُبُّوْحٌ قُدُّوْسٌ رَبُّنَا وَ رَبُّ المَلَائِكَةِ وَ الرُّوْحِ
اللّهُمَّ أجِرْنَا مِنَ النَّارِ
يَا مُجِيْرُ يَا مُجِيْرُ يَا مُجِيْرُ

Subhaana dhil mulki wal malakooti
Subhaana dhil izzat wal azmati wal haybati wal qudrati wal kibriyaa-e wal jhabaroot
Subhanal malikil hayyil ladhi laa yanaamu wa laa yamootu
Suboohun qudoosun Rabbuna wa Rabbul malaaikati war rooh
Allahumma ajirna minan naar
Ya Mujeeru Ya Mujeeru Ya Mujeeru

Glorified is the Owner of the kingdom of the earth and the heavens;
Glorified is the Possessor of Honour and Magnificence and Awe, and Power and Greatness and Omnipotence;
Glorified is the Sovereign, the Living, Who does neither sleep nor die
O all Glorious, All Holy one, Our lord and the Lord of the Angels, And the soul.
O Allah save us from the (hell) fire.
O Saviour, O Saviour, O Saviour

Insha Allah, by reciting these Du'as one will get the rewards that lie in the month of Ramadhan.

Ramadhan Mubarak

Alhumdulillah the month of Ramadhan has dawned upon us once again. I wish all the readers of my blog Ramadhan Mubarak. I pray to Allah that He gives us strength in this month to worship Him with our utmost ability and strength. May He give us the knowledge and understanding to complete this month in the manner shown by our Beloved Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم and ordered by Allah Ta’ala.

Insha Allah the Ramadhan posts will continue through the month of Ramadhan. First I will post a few essential rulings that will ensure that our fasts are valid and not rendered broken in accordance to the Shari’ah. Thereafter, I will continue in the month of Ramadhan with posts that entail Du’as and supplications that one can use in the month of Ramadhan as well as a post on Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Power).

I once again supplicate to Allah that He does not deprive us in this month of His mercy and forgiveness and that He grants us Freedom from the Hell Fire.

Insha Allah I will be remembering all of you in my Du’as and I humbly request that you all remember me in your Du’as also. Finally, please do forgive me for all the discrepancies I may have had and if I have caused any pain to anyone.

Wasalaam

Acts of Worship in RamadhanPost 5 - Part 2

8. Supplicating to Allah.

الدعاء مخ العبادة

“Supplication is the essence of worship.”

Ramadhan is the month within which one tries to excel in worship. It is a month where a servant, through the medium of worship, draws closer to his beloved, Allah. Though we perform many acts of worship during this month, we should keep in mind that the core and essence of worship lies in supplication. A person who does not supplicate to Allah gives out an image of being haughty, proud and independent; and these qualities are not liked by Allah.

In this month the mercy and blessing of Allah descend upon the earth all those people who are within. Allah calls out within this month to His believers asking whether there is anyone that is supplicating so that he can accept his supplication.

Therefore, one should make an utmost effort to supplicate as much as possible in this month and ask Allah for forgiveness, steadfastness, a place in Jannah, freedom from hellfire and all whatever needs a person has.

Insha Allah, specific Du’as will be posted during the month of Ramadhan which one may use to supplicate.

9. Dhikr & Remembrance of Allah.

مثل الذي يذكر ربه و الذي لا يذكر مثل الحي و الميت

“The example of one who remembers his Lord and the one who does not is like the living and the dead”

The month of Ramadhan is a month where man excels in the remembrance of Allah; the level of worship increases in this month and therefore the remembrance of presence of Allah is felt more. The more we remember our Lord the more He remembers us and the more Allah remembers us the more likely we are to receive His mercy and forgiveness.

Therefore, in the month of Ramadhan we should increase the Dhikr and remembrance of Allah by trying to recite as much Tasbeeh (glorification) of Allah as possible. If there is one thing that a person will regret and have remorse for in Paradise it will be that time which was not spent in the remembrance of his Lord.

10. Sunnah & Nafl I'tikaaf.

‏النبي ‏ ‏صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ ‏كان ‏ ‏يعتكف ‏ ‏في العشر الأواخر من رمضان

“The Messenger of Allah صلي الله عليه و سلم used to retire in the mosque for devotion (I'tikaaf) in the last ten days of Ramadan”

I’tikaaf is the name given to the retreat inside a mosque that one practices in the month of Ramdhan. When one retreats and secludes himself to worship Allah in the month of Ramadhan he is in actual fact offering his entirety to his Lord and trying to achieve a maximum level of worship and closeness to Allah.

There are two forms of I’tikaaf:

The first type of I’tikaaf Sunnah which is performed during the last ten days of Ramadhan and has been mentioned in many Ahadeeth and it holds great merits as it has also been mentioned that that Night of Power (Laylatul Qadr) occurs during this time.

The second type is Nafl (optional) and can be performed at any time during the month of Ramadhan for any duration. This method is also meritorious and commendable; however it does not hold the same reward as the Sunnah I’tikaaf.

A person should try and perform the Sunnah I’tikaaf during the month of Ramadhan. If this is not possible due to commitments or other reasons then everyone should perform Nafl I’tikaaf for as much time as he can. A person can make the intention of Nafl I’tikaaf every time he enters the mosque, even if it is for prayer. This way he will receive the reward of I’tikaaf as long as he remains within the mosque boundaries and upholds the requirements of I’tikaaf.

11. Sehri / Suhur.

‏تسحروا فإن في السحور بركة

“Take Suhur (meal before dawn); for in Suhur there is a blessing.”

Suhur or Sehri is the meal that is taken by the person intending to fast before dawn and in the last portion of the night. Suhur is the Sunnah of our beloved Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم and we have also been encouraged to make Suhur as it contains blessings and is a medium for Allah’s mercy.

During Ramadhan, one should avoid missing Suhur without a valid excuse. Even though may not feel hungry it is advised that one performs this Sunnah and reaps the rewards, blessings and mercy of Allah contained within.

12. Iftaar

‏ ‏إذا أقبل الليل وأدبر النهار وغابت الشمس فقد أفطر الصائم

“When the night approaches and the day retreats and the sun sinks down, then the observer of the Fast should break his fast”

It is Sunnah to make Iftaar [break one’s fast] immediately after sunset. One should not delay the Iftaar as this is undesired and disliked.

One should indulge himself in seeking Du’a (supplicating) to Allah during the time of Iftaar. To do this, one should try and commit himself to sit down at least ten minutes before the time of Iftaar and supplicate to Allah for all his needs until the Adhan is called. Furthermore, one should make a habit of making Iftaar at the Masjid and not at home.

13. Taraweeh Prayers

شهر جعل الله صيامه فريضة وقيام ليله تطوعًا

“It is a month in which Allah has made fasting compulsory by day. And has made Sunnah the Taraweeh prayer by night”

The nights of Ramadhan are blessed with the recitation of the Qur’an through the prayers of Taraweeh. The scholars class the Taraweeh prayers as Sunnah and that it consists of twenty Rak’ats (cycles) in total.

One should make an effort to attend the Taraweeh prayers in the mosque and ensure that one completes the Qur’an in this manner. If one follows the Taraweeh within one mosque only then Insha Allah he will have heard the entire Qur’an.

14. Nafl (optional) and recommended Salaah.

During this month, one should make an effort to perform optional and recommended prayers. It is a month where even recommended acts receive the rewards of Fardh (obligatory) acts in another month and additional rewards and benefits will be gained from the reading of the optional prayer.

Some prayers that can be performed are:

a) Ishraaq (begins roughly 15 minutes after Dawn – Consists of 2 – 4 Rak’ats)

b) Duha / Chast (offered after sunrise until midday – Consists of 2 – 12 Rak’ats)

c) Awabeen (After Maghrib Salaah – Consists of 6 - 20 Rak’ats)

d) Tahajjud (offered in the last portion of the night before dawn – Consists of 2 - 12 Rak’ats)

e) Tahiyyatul Masjid / Tahiyyatul Wudhu (when entering the Masjid / after performing Wudhu – Consists of 2 Rak’ats)

f) Salaat-us Tasbeeh (anytime – Recommended once daily or at least once in a lifetime – Consists of 4 Rak’ats)

g) Salaat-ut Tawbah (anytime – Performed with the intention of seeking forgiveness from Allah – Consists of 2 Rak’ats)

h) Salaat-us Shukr (anytime – Performed with the intention of thanking Allah)

i) General Nafl (optional) prayers can be performed also.

14. Praying the Qur'an.

‏وكان ‏ ‏جبريل ‏ ‏يلقاه في كل ليلة من شهر رمضان فيدارسه القرآن

“And Jibreel عليه السلام would meet him every night in the month of Ramadhan and rehearse with him صلي الله عليه و سلم the Holy Qur’an”

The Holy Qur’an has an immense connection with the month of Ramadhan; it was in this month that the Qur’an was revealed and it was in this month the angel Jibreel عليه السلام would come to rehearse the Qur’an with our beloved Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم.

In this month one should make an effort to recite the Qur’an daily as much as possible. In actual fact, one should reduce his other forms of optional worship to accommodate the recitation of the Qur’an if he has limited time. It is also vital to recite the Qur’an correctly and accurately without making mistakes or reading too fast.

If one is able to then he should complete the Qur’an by recitation in this month and make an effort to hear the entire Qur’an in the Taraweeh prayers.

15. Excellence of Durood / Salaah Alan Nabi.

إِنَّ اللَّهَ وَمَلَائِكَتَهُ يُصَلُّونَ عَلَى النَّبِيِّ يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا صَلُّوا عَلَيْهِ وَسَلِّمُوا تَسْلِيمًا

“Indeed Allah and His angels send blessings on the Prophet (Muhammad صلي الله عليه و سلم). O you who believe! (Ask Allah to) send blessings upon him (صلي الله عليه و سلم) and (ask Allah to) send salutations upon him (صلي الله عليه و سلم).

The act of sending blessings on the Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم is an act that carries endless rewards and merits whilst its benefits are infinite and cannot be encompassed. A person who sends blessings on the Prophet of Allah صلي الله عليه و سلم is blessed ten times in return and it is through sending constant blessings on the Prophet of Allah صلي الله عليه و سلم will one receive his intercession and favours on the Day of Judgment.

One should never fall short on sending blessings upon the Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم during any month of the year. However, it is vital that this act of worship is increased in the month of Ramadhan so that one can reap the benefits contained within its recitation as well as seek the mercy of Allah and His Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم in both worlds.

َ اللهُمَّ صَلِّيْ وَسَلِّمْ عَلى مُحَمَّدٍ كُلَّمَا ذَكَرَهُ الذَّاكِرُوْنَ , و صَلِّيْ اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلِّم كُلَّمَا غَفَلَ عَنْ ذِكْرِهِ الْغَافِلُوْنَ َ

“O Allah, send blessings and salutations upon our Beloved Prophet Muhammad صلي الله عليه و سلم the amount of every person that remembers (sends salutation upon) him; and send blessing and salutations upon him صلي الله عليه و سلم the amount of every person who is ignorant of remembering (sending blessings upon) him صلي الله عليه و سلم.”

Acts of Worship in RamadhanPost 5 - Part 1

In the last post I mentioned the minimum level of worship one should carry out in the month of Ramadhan and points that people should always keep in mind during this month. In this post a few acts will be mentioned that, although not complete, can be used as a guideline and indication towards the acts which can be performed in this month. As there are many acts of worship that can be performed, and only a short period before the beginning of this blessed month, I shall be posting the acts of worships on a daily basis, Insha Allah.

Acts that can be Performed.

In the month of Ramadhan there is no amount of worship that be classified as the 'maximum' level of worship. However, there are worships which have been mentioned in the Ahadeeth that are specific for this month and others which are generally rewarding. Following is a selection of a few acts that one can perform during this month to reap the benefits of this month as well as these acts. May Allah give us all the strength to perform worship to the maximum of our ability in this blessed month. Aameen.

Acts of Worship Directly Related to Ramadhan

1. Worshipping on Laylatul Qadr - The Night of Power.

شهر فيه ليلة خير من ألف شهر، شهر جعل الله صيامه فريضة وقيام ليله تطوعً

"A month in which lies a night greater in virtue than a thousand months"

It is within this month of Ramadhan that Laylatul Qadr, Night of Power, is most likely to occur. This night is better and holds more weight than worship of a thousand months (eighty three years and four months). Many scholars have explained on the fact that this night, although not fixed, can be found mostly in the last ten days of Ramadhan and moreover on the 27th night.

The Prophet of Allah صلي الله عليه و سلم has said:

‏تحروا ليلة القدر في العشر الأواخر من رمضان

"Look for the Night of Qadr in the last ten nights of the month of Ramadan"

[Sahih al-Bukhari]

Keeping this Hadeeth in mind, every person should make an effort to spend the nights of Ramadhan in worship as much as possible. For it is most likely that this month contains the Night of Power. If one is unable to worship every night in this month then one should not miss the opportunity to perform worship on at least the 27th night.

Insha Allah, a post will be published regarding the Night of Power during the month of Ramadhan.

2. Fardh (obligatory) & Nafl (optional) Acts.

من تقرب فيه بخصلة كان كمن ادي فريضة في ما سواه و من ادي فريضة فيه كان كمن ادي سبعين فريضة فيما سواه،

"Whosoever intends drawing near to Allah by performing any virtuous deed, for such person shall be the reward like the one who had performed a Fardh in any other time. And whoever performs a Fardh shall be blessed with the reward of seventy Faraidh in any other time."

In this month Allah is multiplying the rewards for every act we carry out; a person who performs a Nafl (optional) act in this month will be given the reward of a Fardh (obligatory) act performed in any other month; and the person who perform a Fardh act in this month is given the reward of seventy Fardh acts performed in any other month.

Therefore, one should discharge all the Faraidh duties and thereafter make an effort to perform as many Nafl (optional) acts of worship. Thus, ensuring that one has acquired this great 'sale' and 'offer' that Allah Ta'ala is providing during this month.

3. Observing Patience.

وهو شهر الصبر، والصبر ثوابه الجنة

"And it is the month of patience, and the reward for patience is Jannah (Paradise)."

This is the month within which a person's patience is tested and put at trial. The nature of man is such that if something occurs against his habit then he will feel uneasy and restless to such an extent that the person can become ill.

Therefore, during this month a person's habits will change significantly; he will leave his food and drink during the day and perform the fast and at night he will reduce his sleeping hours by perform the Taraweeh prayers and waking up for Sehri (morning meal).

This change, along with the extra level of worship and the abstention from sins, will make a person less patient. Therefore, patience will be a great act of worship for which the reward can be no less than Jannah itself.

Furthermore, it should be remembered that there are three levels of patience that one can exercise; the first being the most common, to have patience on a calamity or disliked occurrence that befalls us. However, in addition to this, we also need to exercise patience for the performance of good deeds and the abstention from sinning. When a person finds it difficult to perform a deed then he should be patient and hope for the reward that lies in this patience. Similarly, when one feels a struggle in abstaining from sin then he should be patient and again hope for the reward from Allah.

One should have a firm intention to be patient on all the difficulties he faces, whether is be in the form of sorrow, grief and trials, or merely the difficulties one faces when performing deeds and abstaining from sins.

4. Sympathy and Huqooqul 'Ibaad (rights of fellow beings).

شهر المواساة،

"It is the month of sympathy with one's fellow men."

Within this month great emphasis is placed on direct worship; worship which is directed related to Allah. However, this should not deceive us from the rights that are attached to people. It is vital that we ensure we do not unjustly disregard the rights of others whilst trying to offer optional acts of worship as well as obligatory acts.

It is essential to keep in mind that upholding the rights of others is also Fardh and obligatory. A person who disregards the rights of others will not be forgiven by Allah for that sin and only the person whose rights have been disregarded can forgive is.

Many times we see in the month of Ramadhan that due to the increased level of worshippers in the mosque there is a difficulty in finding parking; in such a case, it would wrong to cause someone inconvenience by parking inconsiderately or even blocking a car. It would in actual fact better to reach the prayers late and have not caused any inconvenience to fellow beings.

In short, as well as upholding the rights of Allah, it is necessary that a person keeps in mind the rights of fellow beings and does not disregard their rights whilst having the notion in his mind that he is receiving reward for the act he is doing.

5. Work & Worship.

و شهر يزاد في رزق المؤمن فيه

"It is the month wherein a true believer's sustenance is increased."

There are a very few fortunate people who can leave their work for this month and dedicate themselves entirely to worship in this month. However, Islam does not necessitate the leaving of one's job; in fact, Islam would not allow a person to leave working if his family are depending on him for food and income. Therefore, though one does not have to leave work to dedicate himself to worship it is advised that each person makes an effort to decrease the amount of work he is doing and spend a greater portion of his time in worship. It should also be noted that working and earning an honest and Halaal livelihood for one's family is also an act of worship and bears great reward.

However, one should keep in mind that this is the month within which one's sustenance is increased; this is an indication from Allah to the believers to notify them that do not be heedless towards worship by becoming engrossed in business and work; for Allah has increased the sustenance of a believer in this month so that he can freely worship Allah and not have major concern regarding his sustenance.

6. Feeding the Fasting & Feeding the Poor.

من فطر فيه صائما كان مغفرة لذنوبه وعتق رقبته من النار وكان له مثل أجره من غير أن ينقص من أجره شئ ... و من سقي صائما سقاه الله من حوضي شربة لا يضمأ حتي يدخل الجنة

"Whosoever feeds another who fasted, in order to break the fast at sunset, for the feeder there shall be forgiveness of sins and emancipation from the fire of Jahannam (hell), and for such feeder shall be the same reward as the one who fasted (who he fed) without that persons reward being decreased in the least... And whoever gave a person who observed fast water to drink, Allah shall grant that giver to drink from my fountain, such a drink where after that person shall never again feel thirsty until he enters Jannah."

Abdullah ibn 'Amr رضي الله عنه narrates:

‏أن رجلا سأل النبي ‏ ‏صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ ‏أي الإسلام خير قال ‏ ‏تطعم الطعام وتقرأ السلام على من عرفت ومن لم تعرف

"A man asked the Prophet صلي الله عليه و سلم, what sort of deeds (or qualities) of Islam are good? He صلي الله عليه و سلم replied, to feed (the poor) and greet those whom you know and those whom you do not know"

Feeding people in any month is classified as one of the greatest acts and qualities of Islam. However, in the month of Ramadhan this deed becomes more valuable and precious. The person who feeds a fasting person, or gives him water to break his fast, will receive the reward of that persons fast without that person's reward being decreased. Furthermore, Allah will make this act a means of that person's sins being forgiven and will safeguard him from the hellfire.

Taking this into consideration one should make an effort to feed the poor. If this is difficult to achieve, then one should take every opportunity to feed the fasting and provide them with the food to break their fast.

7. Lessening the Burden off Others.

من خفف عن مملوكه فيه غفر الله له و اعتقه من النار

"Whosoever lessens the burden of his servants (bonds-men) in this month Allah will forgive him and free him from the fire of Jahannam"

In this month, employers should make an effort to reduce the strain on their employees; just as anyone in charge should reduce the level of work and burden on those under their charge. It is a month where a person should show care and consideration towards others as much as possible.

One should make the utmost effort not to cause any difficulty to anyone in this month and to try and lessen the burden off as many people as he can. Insha Allah, by easing the matters from other people, Allah will ease our matters both in this world and the hereafter.

May Allah give us all the inclination to perform these acts, those that follow and many more during this blessed month of Ramadhan and thereafter also. Aameen.

Insha Allah, further acts of worship will be posted tomorrow.