Kalimataan - the Seal of al-Bukhari

'There are two phrases which are beloved to the Most Merciful, light on the tongue, yet heavy on the scales (of reward): glory be to Allah and all praise to Him, glory be to Allah, the Almighty.'

Virtues of Blood Donation

Every year, there would be a blood donation drive just before the Haj season stationed at the foyer of my school building. And for the past two years, all I did was be part of the larger group of curious onlookers of the blood donors. The only thing that kept me from donating was fear. Fear of the thought of a thicker than normal needle being hooked through your vein while bearing the 'excruciating pain' that may come along with it. When I teased my schoolmates about donating, the excuses came in all shapes and forms;

"Oh, I think have too little blood"

"Nah, I think there's enough donors"

"Look at how skinny I am! Ask him, I think his blood reserves are aplenty (pointing to a bigger sized guy)"

This year I finally braved myself to donate. After pondering about it, I felt that whatever fear I may have about the experience of donating blood, whether if I may encounter a bad experience with an inefficient nurse poking a wrong spot and getting a bad bruise as a result of it or any pain that I may have to undergo, it is nothing compared to the pain and suffering that others may suffer due to insufficient supply of blood at the bloodbank.

You could sense the poor response each time there's a blood donation drive. We definitely could do with more blood donors. So the next time we encounter a blood donation drive, just donate! Don't hesitate!

Yea, I know, I know, it took me years to convince myself. Well it's not as painful as I thought it'd be.

Anyway, here's an article about the virtues of Blood Donation from islamonline.net

Name of Questioner: Nadia (United Kingdom)
Title: Virtues of Blood Donation

Question:

Dear scholars, As-salamu `alaykum. Is it permissible to donate blood to patients? Jazakum Allah khayran.

Date: 09/Jun/2004
Name of Mufti: Yusuf Al-Qaradawi
Topic: Morals & Values

Wa`alaykum as-salam wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh.

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear questioner, we commend your pursuit of knowledge and your keenness to seek what is lawful and avoid what is not. We earnestly implore Allah to bless your efforts in this honorable way.

First of all, we would like to stress that Islam encourages us to be charitable to all regardless of differences of religion or race. Blood donation comes at the top of charitable deeds; therefore every Muslim and Muslimah should not only participate in it but also take initiatives in their communities to encourage the act.

Responding to the question, the eminent Muslim scholar Sheikh Yusuf Al-Qaradawi, states the following:

Blood donation is the best assistance a man can offer a patient who needs a blood transfusion due to blood loss or surgery. Donating blood is a highly estimated deed, as it saves the life of a human being whether he is a Muslim or not. It is an act whose virtue is explicitly clarified in the Qur’anic verse in which Allah the Almighty says: “Whosoever killeth a human being for other than manslaughter or corruption in the earth, it shall be as if he had killed all mankind, and whoso saveth the life of one, it shall be as if he had saved the life of all mankind” (Al-Ma’idah: 32).

It is well-known that donating money is a highly esteemed deed in Islam; Allah is pleased with such deeds, so He accepts them and multiplies their reward up to seven-hundred-fold and more, by His Will. Donating blood is even greater in virtue and reward than donating money, as the former saves the life of a human being. Blood, which is a part of man, is more precious than money. The blood donor gives part of his body to his brother or sister out of love and solidarity.

The virtue of blood donation increases when it is done to support a person in a hazardous condition and relieve his hardship. This is an extra virtue that qualifies one for more reward from Allah the Almighty. It is reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Verily, Allah likes supporting a man in need” (Reported by Abu Ya`la, Ad-Dailamy and Ibn `Asakir, on the authority of Ibn Anas, as related in Faidul-Qadir 2/287).

It is reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “If one removes a hardship of a Muslim in this life, Allah will relieve a hardship from him on the Day of Judgment” (Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim on the authority of Ibn `Umar, as related in Al-Lu’lu’ Wal-Marjan 1667).

Moreover, it is reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) declared that supporting the needy, even animals, deserves great reward in Allah’s Sight. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “While a man was walking he felt thirsty and went down a well and drank water from it. On coming out of it, he saw a dog panting and eating mud because of excessive thirst. The man said, ‘This (dog) is suffering from the same problem as that of mine.’ So he (went down the well), filled his shoe with water, caught hold of it with his teeth and climbed up and gave the dog water. Allah thanked him for his (good) deed and forgave him.” The people asked, “O Allah’s Messenger! Is there a reward for us in serving (the) animals?” He replied, “Yes, there is a reward for serving any living creature” (Reported by Abu Hurayrah, as related in Al-Lu’lu’ Wal-Marjan 1447).

It seems that the Prophet’s Companions thought that serving such creatures does not entail any reward from Allah the Almighty and that there is no value for such an act in Islam. Hence the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) clarified to them that being good to any living creature, whether it be a dog or such, deserves great reward. So what about assisting a human being, and what if that human being is a true believer? It then entails much greater reward.

Blood donation generally entails great reward, and when it is done for the favor of someone’s kin, it deserves even greater reward, as it strengthens the ties of kinship and enhances good relations among relatives. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Supporting a needy person is a charitable deed, while supporting a relative is two charitable deeds: spending money and strengthening the ties of kinship.” (Reported in Al-Jami` As-Saghir by Ahmad, At-Tirmidhi, An-Nasa’i, Ibn Majah, and Al-Hakim on the authority of Salman Ibn Amir; verified by Al-Hakim, and supported by Adh-Dhahabi, as related in Faydul-Qadir by Al-Manawi 4/237).

This reward especially multiplies if the relation between one and his kin is not originally good. In other words, if a man is having a dispute with his relatives and can overcome feelings of enmity and hatred that are rejected by Allah and by people, and extend a helping hand, whether with money or blood, he then offers the best act of charity, as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) considered it so when he said: “Charity is to support a kin with a severed relation (that is, one who does not keep good relations with his kin).” (Reported in Al-Jami` As-Saghir by Ahmad and At-Tabarani on the authority of Abu Ayoub and Hakeem Ibn Hizam, and in Al-Adab Al-Mufrad by Abu Dawud, At-Tirmidhi and Al-Bukhari on the authority of Abu Sa`id. Reported also by At-Tabarani and Al-Hakim on the authority of Umm Kulthum bint `Uqbah, and verified by Al-Hakim, according to Muslim’s conditions; and supported by Adh-Dhahabi, as related in Faydul-Qadir: 2/38).

"... And live with your people wherever you like."

 Article from islamtoday.com..

by Shiekh Abd Allah b. Bayyih

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “O Fudayk, establish prayer, avoid bad deeds, and live with your people wherever you like.” [Sahîh Ibn Hibbân (4861)] The narrators of this hadîth are all reliable.

The meaning of the hadith:

Fudayk belonged to a tribe who were all non-Muslims. Fudayk, who had accepted Islam, used to live with them. Fudayk’s people had requested him to live with them and pledged to him that they would not impose upon him in his faith in any way.

Fudayk then went to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and asked about whether he should emigrate, saying: “O Messenger of Allah! There are people claiming that whoever does not emigrate will come to ruin.”

To this the Prophet (peace be upon him) replied: “O Fudayk, establish prayer, avoid bad deeds, and live with your people wherever you like.”

Ibn Hibbân explains the meaning of the hadîth as follows [Sahîh Ibn Hibbân (11/203)]:

The command to “establish prayer” is a command indicating obligation upon those being addressed under relevant circumstances.

The command to “avoid bad deeds” is a command indicating obligation upon all Muslims under all circumstances. They must not perpetrate evil and sinful deeds upon themselves or upon others. This refers to all deeds that Allah is displeased with

The imperative tense of the verb “live” in the phrase “and live with your people wherever you like” indicates permissibility. What it means is that if a person who shuns bad deeds as we have mentioned, then there is no harm in his living wherever he chooses to live, even if the location is not ideal.

Indeed, a Muslim who lives in a non-Muslim country should take the injunctions of this hadîth to heart and live his life accordingly. He should establish prayer. He should avoid fornication, drinking, and all other licentious, sinful deeds.

Its legal implications:

It is generally understood that a Muslim living in an Islamic country should not leave it for a non-Muslim country without a good reason. This hadîth is evidence that if a Muslim is already living in a non-Muslim country and is able to worship Allah and carry out the rites of his religion, then he is under no obligation to leave his country.

Scholars disagree regarding the emigration of a Muslim who lives in a non-Muslim country.

The first opinion is that a Muslim can live in a non-Muslim country as long as he is free to practice his religion. This is the opinion of the vast majority of jurists. It is the ruling followed by the Hanafî, Shâfi`î, and Hanbalî schools of law.

Those who hold this opinion cite the hadîth under discussion as evidence.

Another hadîth which is used as evidence for the permissibility of living in non-Muslim countries is where the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “The countries are Allah’s countries and the people are Allah’s servants, so wherever you find good living atmosphere, then live.” [Musnad Ahmad (1420) – with a weak chain of transmission]

The second opinion is that of the Mâlikî and Zâhirî schools of law – that it is obligatory for a Muslim to emigrate from a non-Muslim country to a Muslim country if he is capable of doing so.

The cite hadîth like: “Do not be in sight of each other’s house fires.” [Sunan al-Tiimidhî (1604), Sunan Abî Dâwûd (2645), and Sunan al-Nasâ’î (4780)] There is disagreement about the authenticity of this hadîth as well as about its meaning.

The third opinion is quite the opposite of the second. Al-Mâwardî and many other Shâfi`î scholars hold the view that if a Muslim is able to practice his religion freely in a non-Muslim country, then he should not leave. They argue that it is his duty to remain in that country, because if he leaves, then the country will be devoid of a Muslim presence.

Conclusions:

What all this amounts to is that there is flexibility in the matter. If a Muslim feels the need to live in a Muslim country where he can practice his religion with greater freedom and comfort, then it is a good thing for him to do so if he gets the opportunity. However, if he finds it better for him to stay where he is, then he is free to do so. As long as he is free to practice his faith, then he may stay in his country. We might add another consideration that he must take into account: He should be able to raise his children as Muslims.

And Allah knows best.

The Five Categories of People who Pray

Article from subulassalaam.com..

Author: Al Imaam Ibn Qayyim al Jawzeeyah
Reference: Al Waabil as Saayib: Vol. 1 P. 138

The first: The category of the oppressor to himself, the negligent one, one who is deficient in performing ablution for it, negligent with its appointed time periods, its boundaries and its pillars.

The second: One who preserves it appointed time periods, its boundaries, its outward pillars and ablution for it. However, he forsakes striving against his own self from whisperings and thinking to himself, and so is preoccupied with whisperings and thoughts.

The third: One who preserves its appointed time periods, its pillars as well as strives against himself in repelling whisperings and distracting thoughts that overcome him, he is busy in striving against his enemy in order to prevent him from stealing his prayer, he is in prayer as well as Jihaad.

The fourth: One whom when he stands for prayer perfects its rights, its pillars and its boundaries. His heart is occupied with preserving its boundaries and preventing anything of it being lost, rather all his attention is directed to performing it as it should be, in its most complete and perfect form, his heart is occupied with the prayer and worshiping his Lord the Elevated with it.

The fifth: One who performs the prayer like the previous person, but in addition to this, he has taken his heart and presented it to his Lord. He looks at his Lord with his heart, fully concerned with Him, in utmost obedience out of love and reverence for Him, it is as if he sees and witnesses his Lord. All distracting thoughts and whisperings fade away and the veil between him and his Lord is removed. The difference between this person in his prayer and others, is greater and better than all that is between the heavens and earth, he is fully occupied and overjoyed with his Lord in his prayer.

The first category is punished, the second is held accountable, the third is pardoned, the fourth is rewarded and the fifth is brought close to his Lord, because he gains a portion of what made the prayer a delight to him.

For whoever is delighted with his prayer in the life of this world, will be delighted by being close to his Lord in the afterlife as well as being delighted with his Lord in this life, and whoever is delighted with Allaah, everything would be delighted with him, and whoever is not delighted with Allaah the Elevated, his soul will be torn apart for the life of this world in loss.

It is narrated that when a servant stands for prayer, Allaah the Glorified says; “Remove the veil.”, and if the servant turns away He says: “Replace it.”

This ‘turning away’ has been explained as the turning of the heart away from Allaah the Mighty to other than Him. So if he turns away, the veil is replaced between him and his Lord and Shaytaan enters and presents worldly affairs to him, he shows them to him in the image of a woman. But if he turns with his heart to Allaah and does not turn away, Shaytaan would not be able to come between Allaah and that heart, he only enters if the veil is replaced. If he returns to Allaah the Elevated with his heart, the Shaytaan would escape, and if he turns away, the Shaytaan would return, such is his state with his enemy in prayer.

Jahil agama punca mudah terjebak amalan syirik

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Oleh: Mohd Yaakub bin Mohd Yunus
Thursday, 01 October 2009

Rasulullah sendiri memperingatkan umat jangan keterlaluan menyanjungi serta memujinya. KEGIATAN kaki judi menjadikan kubur lama yang dianggap keramat dan ber-kuasa untuk menunaikan segala permintaan termasuk untuk mendapatkan nombor ekor, malah terdapat juga pihak tertentu menjadikan kubur sebagai tempat memohon disembuhkan penyakit.

Sering kali kubur orang soleh seperti Nabi, sahabat Rasulullah SAW, ulama dan wali dianggap memiliki keramat akan dikunjungi masyarakat Islam bertujuan untuk beribadah dan dijadikan perantaraan bagi membuat permohonan tertentu kepada Allah. Ada di antara kubur berkenaan dihiasi binaan indah, diterangi lampu bahkan ada juga sehingga didirikan masjid di atasnya.

Sikap berlebihan dalam mengagungkan orang soleh sebegini menjadi asal munculnya amalan syirik yang terburuk di atas muka bumi ini iaitu penyembahan berhala. Firman Allah, "Dan mereka berkata jangan sekali-kali kamu meninggalkan (penyembahan) tuhan kamu dan jangan pula kamu tinggalkan Wadd, dan jangan pula Suwaa', Yaghuts, Ya'uq dan Nasr." (Nuh: 23).

Menurut Ibnu Abbas r.a, Wadd, Suwaa', Yaghuts, Ya'uq dan Nasr adalah orang soleh daripada kalangan kaum Nabi Nuh. Apabila mereka meninggal dunia maka syaitan membisikkan ke telinga kaum itu agar membuat patung menyerupai mereka agar dapat mereka mengenang segala amalan soleh serta jasa orang soleh berkenaan. Patung itu turut dijadikan perangsang bagi mereka untuk mencontohi perbuatan orang soleh. Patung berkenaan pada peringkat awalnya tidak disembah oleh kaum itu. Namun masa berlalu dan generasi awal kaum ini meninggal dunia, generasi baru yang menggantikannya banyak melupakan ajaran agama sebenar. Syaitan sekali lagi memainkan peranan untuk menyesatkan umat manusia dengan membisikkan kepada mereka bahawa generasi sebelum mereka itu menyembah patung berkenaan untuk mendekat diri mereka kepada Allah.

Disebabkan kejahilan mereka terhadap ajaran agama maka bermulalah amalan menyembah patung orang soleh itu atas dasar mengagungkan dan kecintaan terhadap mereka serta ia dijadikan sebagai objek perantaraan untuk memohon doa serta syafaat. Al-Laata yang juga antara berhala terbesar pada zaman jahiliah di Makkah juga nama seorang yang masa hidupnya gemar memberi makanan kepada jemaah haji yang mengunjungi Kaabah.

Sehubungan itu, Rasulullah SAW sentiasa memperingatkan kepada umat manusia agar jangan berlebihan dalam menyanjungi serta memuji dirinya. Mengagungkan Rasulullah hanya akan tercapai dengan melaksanakan segala perintah dan larangannya seperti termaktub di dalam al-Quran serta sunnahnya. Baginda amat khuatir sekiranya umat Islam terjerumus melakukan kesilapan seperti umat lalu yang berlebihan dalam mengagungkan orang soleh sehingga melakukan perbuatan syirik. Ketika hayatnya baginda berkali-kali memperingatkan sahabat agar menghindari sikap melampaui batas golongan Yahudi dan Nasrani yang membangunkan tempat ibadah di atas kuburan orang soleh mereka. Amaran ini diulangi lagi ketika baginda sedang uzur bahkan menurut Aishah r.a. ketika baginda hampir wafat Rasulullah masih sempat bersabda: "Semoga laknat Allah ditimpakan kepada orang Yahudi dan Nasrani. Mereka menjadikan kuburan Nabi-Nabi mereka sebagai tempat ibadah (masjid)." (Hadis riwayat Imam al-Bukhari).

Beginilah peringatan yang begitu keras daripada Rasulullah kepada umatnya agar tidak didirikan masjid di atas kuburan orang soleh dan jangan menjadikan kuburan mereka sebagai tempat beribadah seperti solat, tawaf, membaca al-Quran, menyembelih haiwan korban, memohon doa serta pertolongan.

Solat menghadap kuburan adalah diharamkan sebagaimana sabdanya: "Jangan kamu solat menghadap kubur dan jangan duduk di atas kubur." (Hadis riwayat Imam Muslim) Baginda juga pernah bersabda: "Janganlah kalian jadikan rumah kalian seperti kuburan, kerana sesungguhnya syaitan akan lari dari rumah yang dibaca di dalamnya surat al-Baqarah." (Hadis riwayat Imam Muslim). Menerusi hadis ini dapat kita fahami bahawa dilarang menjadikan rumah seperti kuburan yang tidak dibaca al-Quran. Secara tidak langsung ia menunjukkan bahawa kawasan perkuburan bukanlah tempat untuk beribadah seperti membaca al-Quran sebagaimana di rumah. Majoriti ulama salaf seperti Imam Abu Hanifah, Imam Malik, Imam al-Syafi'i, Imam Ahmad dan imam lain melarang membaca al-Quran di kawasan perkuburan. Sebagai contoh Imam Abu Dawud berkata dalam kitab Masaa'il Imam Ahmad: "Aku mendengar Imam Ahmad ketika beliau ditanya mengenai membaca al-Quran di pemakaman? Beliau menjawab: "Tidak boleh". Menurut Ibnu Taimiyah di dalam Iqtidhaa' Shirathal Mustaqim: "Daripada al-Syafie sendiri tidak terdapat perkataan mengenai masalah ini, yang demikian ini menunjukkan bahawa (baca al-Quran di perkuburan) menurut beliau adalah bidaah. Imam Malik berkata: "Tidak aku dapati seorang pun daripada sahabat dan tabi'in yang melakukan hal itu."

Tindakan sesetengah pihak yang sanggup melakukan perjalanan yang jauh semata-mata untuk mengunjungi kuburan orang soleh dengan tujuan untuk beribadah dan mencari keberkatan sebenarnya bertentangan dengan syarak. Baginda bersabda: "Tidak boleh dipersiapkan perjalanan jauh (bertujuan untuk ibadah) kecuali kepada tiga masjid; Masjidilharam (di Makkah), Masjid Rasulullah (Masjid Nabawi di Madinah) dan Masjid al-Aqsa (di Palestin). (Hadis riwayat Imam al-Bukhari)

Rasulullah juga mengharamkan kuburan ditinggikan atau dibangunkan binaan seperti kubah di atasnya seperti yang sering dilakukan terhadap kuburan orang yang dianggap soleh serta memiliki kedudukan yang tinggi di dalam masyarakat. Ali r.a pernah berkata: "Mahukah kamu saya utuskan suatu tugas yang dulu pernah Nabi mengutuskan untukku tugas itu? Iaitu janganlah kamu biarkan satu patung kecuali sudah kamu hancurkan dan jangan pula ada kuburan yang tinggi melainkan kamu ratakan." (Hadis riwayat Muslim).

Wallaahu'alam.

Ikut dalil dan fakta buang taklid buta

Before You Regret

Article from islamonline.net

By Harun Yahya
Muslim Thinker - Turkey

{"Why should Allaah punish you if you have thanked (Him) and have believed in Him. And Allaah is Ever All-Appreciative (of good), All-Knowing."} (An-Nisaa’ 4:147)

People are created with many weaknesses and imperfections. Throughout our lives, we forget many things and make countless mistakes. However through repentance, which Allah grants us as a great favor, it is always possible in this world to correct our mistakes. Indeed, the world is created just for this purpose: We are trained, put to test, and purified of our mistakes in this world. It is likely that we may deeply regret our mistakes or the way we have led our lives. However, it is always possible to make up for this regret. After having lived through this regret, we can ask for repentance and hope for Allah’s forgiveness.

In the Qur’an, Allah gives the glad tidings that He will forgive any sin provided one repents sincerely. Allah knows our inner thoughts and every word we keep to ourselves. He knows whether we are true to Him or not. Allah, in the Qur’an, describes His closeness to His servants:

{"Your Lord knows best what is in your inner-selves. If you are righteous, then, verily, He is Ever Most Forgiving to those who turn to Him again and again in obedience, and in repentance."} (Al-Israa’ 17:25)

Yet, another important fact surfaces here: After death, it is not possible to make up for the mistakes and sins committed in this world unless Allah wills otherwise. So not a single moment do we have to lose. Minutes pass by in a blink of the eye and with every moment passing, we draw even closer to death. Furthermore, we can never foresee when death will confront us. Its date, hour, and minute can never be known. We all will certainly die one day and will give an account of our deeds in the presence of Allah.

For this reason, man must always bear in mind that he may soon die. If he is not to regret in the Hereafter, he must reconsider his life. If it were the time to meet the angels of death right now, would you be able to give an account of all the years you have spent in this world? What have you done so far to earn the consent of Allah? Have you been meticulous enough in fulfilling Allah’s commands?

A person might not have an affirmative answer to any of these questions. But if he repents and sincerely makes an absolute commitment to live to earn the good pleasure of Allah, then he can hope for Allah’s forgiveness. The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) frequently sought forgiveness from Allah:

“By Allah, I seek the pardon of Allah and return penitently to Him every day more than seventy times.” (Al-Bukhari)

We must take refuge in Allah, Who is Al-Ghaffar (The Forgiver, He Who is All-Forgiving), Al-Halim (Forbearing One, He Who is clement), and At-Tawwab (The Acceptor of repentance). Allah will absolutely give the rewards of those who persevere and often turn to Him. He will certainly forgive His servants who have faith and reward their good deeds according to the best of what they did. In one verse, Allah states this great glad tiding as follows:

{Whatever is with you, will be exhausted, and whatever is with Allaah (of good deeds) will remain. And those who are patient, We will certainly pay them a reward in proportion to the best of what they used to do. Whoever works righteousness - whether male of female - while he (or she) is a true believer (of Islaamic Monotheism), verily, to him he We will give a good life (in this world with respect, contentment and lawful provision), and We shall pay then certainly a reward in proportion to the best of what they used to do (i.e. Paradise in the Hereafter)} (An-Nahl 16:96-97)

Never forget that at any time any one of us might be caught by death and, though being full of regret, might not have again the opportunity to correct the wrongs we committed in the worldly life. For this reason, we should lose no time in asking for repentance from Allah and living by His commands and the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him). This is the only way to be a servant upon whom Allah bestows His mercy and love. This is, again, the only way to attain Paradise, the eternal abode Allah prepares for His true believers.

* Excerpted with some minor modifications from the book Before You Regret.

Harun Yahya was born in Ankara in 1956. He studied fine arts at Istanbul's Mimar Sinan University and philosophy at Istanbul University. Since the 1980s, he has published many books on political, faith-related, and scientific issues.

Disbeliever's Good Deeds: Can They Take Him to Paradise?

Article from islamonline.net. I was quite shocked when I heard stories about Muslims believing that even the Kaafir (disbeliever) will be able to enter Jannah (Paradise). Either the person is still ignorant about this fact or that he/she has been taught or have read the wrong form of Tauheed/Aqeedah (basic Islamic belief).

Name of Questioner: Abdol - Iran
Title: Disbeliever's Good Deeds: Can They Take Him to Paradise?
Question:

As-Salamu` alykum. I heard some Muslims saying that only good Muslims go to Heaven. But what about the other good people who are kind, generous, support the poor but are the Christians or Jews. Do they go to Heaven or not ?

Date: 18/Jun/2002
Name of Counsellor: IOL Shari`ah Researchers

Topic: Muslim Belief

Answer:

Wa`alykum As-Salaamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakaatuh.

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.
All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear brother in Islam, we would like to thank you for showing keenness on knowing the teachings of Islam, and we appreciate the great confidence you have in us. We hope our efforts meet your expectations, yet we apologize for the late reply.

As regards your question, we’d like to make it clear that Allah Almighty never disregards any good deed, be it from a believer or a disbeliever; He gives good reward for it. But the point here is, as a believer does good deeds, he does so with certain belief that he will be rewarded in the Hereafter; i.e. whatever he does, it’s for the sake of Allah, and he will get its reward in the Hereafter. However, there are people who are good and benevolent by nature, and many of them love their brothers and sisters in humanity, despite that they are not believers.

Explaining the type of reward granted to such people, the Kuwaiti Encyclopedia of Islamic Jurisprudence makes it clear that there is surely a reward in this world for people who, despite lacking iman (belief), contribute to the progress of mankind, are good by nature, giving charity…etc.

But the criterion for getting reward in the Hereafter is belief. This is based on the Hadith, in which the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, states: “Allah never disregards a good deed of a believer; he reward him for it in this world and in the Hereafter. As for a disbeliever, he is rewarded for the good deeds in this world so that when he is in the Afterlife, no more reward will be there for him.”.

In making this point more clearer, clarifying that Jannah (Paradise) is for believers, Sheikh Hamed Al-`Ali, instructor of Islamic Heritage at the Faculty of Education, Kuwait and Imam of Dahiat As-Sabahiyya Mosque, states:

“No one will enter Jannah (Paradise) except a believer. Almighty Allah says in the Qur’an,

{'And the dwellers of the Fire will call to the dwellers of Paradise: "Pour on us some water of anything that Allaah has provided you with." They will say: "Both (water and provision) Allaah has forbidden to the disbelievers.'} (Al-‘Araaf: 50)

Also the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, is reported to have said: “You will not enter Paradise until you believe.” (Agreed upon hadith)

This is one of signs of Allah’s absolute justice, because when a disbeliever does something good in this world, he or she does it for the sake of a worldly gain, and it is granted to him/her. On the contrary, a believer does his or her action for the sake of seeking reward in the Hereafter, and it is on this basis he or she is granted reward according to his or her intention.

Thus, Allah gives everyone what he or she has striven for. The believer has striven and worked for the success in the Hereafter, and as such he or she is given the same recompense for his work. But as for the disbeliever, as long as his deeds do not spring from belief (part of which is believing in the Hereafter), then he or she is not admitted to Paradise. The Kafir, or disbeliever, does not seek or strive for what is in the Hereafter, rather he or she wants to attain the pleasures in this life such as seeking people’s admiration, peace of mind, etc.

If the Kafir wishes and really seeks the reward in the Hereafter, he or she would right away believe in Allah, the Hereafter, and follow the messengers of Allah and never disbelieve in any of them, because disbelieving in anyone of them would be counted as disbelieving in all messengers since the message they all brought is the same and each Prophet believed in whoever came before him and gave glad tidings to the Prophet who would come after him.

In brief, Jannah is only granted for those who strive for it and there are some conditions to be met for a person to be admitted to Jannah. Whoever works in this life for the sake of the Hereafter and fulfills the conditions of Jannah, he or she will be admitted to it. Conversely, those who fail to work for Jannah or work for it but do not fulfill its conditions will never enter it. This is the absolute justice of Allah, and Allah does not do injustice to any body.”

Shedding more light on this issue, Sheikh `Attiyah Saqr, former Head of Al-Azhar Fatwa Committee, states the following:

“ In terms of the reward of the Hereafter, it is totally agreed upon that a disbeliever receives no reward in the Hereafter nor does a believer who offers good deeds out of showing off. However, when talking about the reward of this world, the case is different in the sense that every one is paid for his deeds whether bad or good. Thus, a disbeliever receives reward for the good deeds he offers in this world. Almighty Allah says:

{'And (remember) when Ibraahim (Abraham) said, "My Lord, make this city (Makkah) a place of security and provide its people with fruits, such of them as believe in Allaah and the Last Day." He (Allaah) answered: "As for him who disbelieves, I shall leave him in contentment for a while, then I shall compel him to the torment of the Fire, and worst indeed is that destination!"} (Al-Baqarah: 126)

Almighty Allah also says: {'Whosoever desires the life of the world and its glitter, to them We shall pay in full (the wages of) their deeds therien, and they will have no diminution therein. They are those for whom there is nothing in the Hereafter but Fire, and vain are the deeds they did therein. And of no effect is that which they used to do.”} (Hud: 15-16)

All these Qur’anic verses make it clear that both a believer and a disbeliever get reward in this life for their good deeds. However, there is another reward for a believer in the Hereafter while a disbeliever is denied such a reward, due to his disbelief. Muslim reported that `Aisha, may Allah be pleased, asked the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him:

“O Messenger of Allah! It was the trait of Ibn Jud`aan in pre-Islamic period to feed the needy and keep ties of kinship, will he benefit from these good deeds?(in the Hereafter)” The Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, said: “No, for he never said: ‘My Lord! Forgive my sin on the Day of Judgment" i.e. he was doing all that while insisting on disbelief.”

Do keep in touch. If you have any other question, don't hesitate to contact us.

Allah Almighty knows best.

Missing Ramadhan already..

There are only 8 nights left.

How much have we done so far?

What are our plans within these last few days and nights?

Are we sure we'll meet the month of Ramadhan again next year?

Let's strive to increase in good deeds for these remaining days and nights..

It's never too late..

And it's always worth it!

Ijtahidu ya ikhwan!

Assumption is the root of all evil

I was reading bro Rizhan's blog entry about this topic and decided to share something.

Remember recently that a certain Muslim organisation tried to bring Dr Zakir Naik to Singapore but he was not granted a permit?

To be honest, I was disappointed that it didn't happen. Dr Zakir Naik is one of the better da'ies in the Muslim world, who's recognised worldwide and his talks are somewhat very inspirational, beneficial and even extraordinary, Masya Allaah.

Knowing this just added to the disappointment. Guess what was the first thing that came to mind? Maybe the government decided to do this because of this, maybe a certain Muslim body did that because of something else. However, they are all just maybes coming from me and and they remain as such.

Thankfully, I kept an open mind and decided not to make any conclusion on the matter until I get some facts about what really happened. And alhamdulillaah, I managed to get answers recently at an iftar-cum-open talk session between a main Muslim body and the Singapore Students of Al-Haramain Asy-Syarifain.

During the open dicussion, I decided to ask, why Dr Zakir Naik's talk was not approved to be held in Singapore and we all know the benefits he brings to Islam and the general public as a whole, while on the other hand, a certain 'Grand' Sheikh was allowed to come to Singapore and some of the things he does are not beneficial at all to the general Muslim community and some of the rituals he introduced to them are not even Islamic.

Firstly, about the Sheikh, we were told that he has been advised about certain things that he did for example, spreading his own opinions about Wahhabism to the general public which would only create division, hatred and confusion. And the reason he was allowed to come to Singapore, which in recent times, seems quite often, is due to the fact that it was a closed session and not opened to the public.

And we were told that even the controversial Ameenah Wadud, had came to Singapore recently and given a talk albeit in a closed session.

For Dr Zakir Naik, however, the organisers wanted it to be in public. For any talks to be held public, it will have to go through some bodies of the government and they will always be very strict, especially if the talk touched on topics such as different religious or racial issues. And of course with his speeches available on YouTube, I'm sure those government bodies have made a thorough research on the speaker. And we know how Singapore works especially on these sensitive issues.

Thus, this was why he was not granted permit to give a talk here. From what I understand, generally, the organisers had acted independantly and didn't seek advice from the main Muslim body. They didn't know about the government's stringent assesment before allowing talks like these to be held in public. What should have been done was for the talk to be held in a closed session as that would have definitely allow him to give a talk here.

This was the answer given to my query, being told to us from someone who holds quite a high post in the Muslim body, whom I respect and trust. Now that the Muslim organisation have known about it and have been advised about how to go about bringing personalities like Dr Zakir Naik here, I hope that they will invite him here again in the near future, insya Allaah.

{"O you who believe! Avoid much suspicion; indeed some suspicions are sins. And spy not, neither backbite one another. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? You would hate it (so hate backbiting). And fear Allaah. Verily, Allaah is the One Who forgives and accepts repentance, Most Merciful."} (Suurah Al-Hujuraat 49:12)

And Allaah Almighty knows best.

Sharing Session

Day and time check: Sunday, 9.30 am

I’ve just got back home since yesterday afternoon, feeling groggy, body starting to ache all over, however feeling quite fulfilled for the events that took place for the past few days. Alhamdulillaah. It has become a regular occurance, that each time I visit a different mosque for the night prayers, I’d bump into a friend or acquaintance. Yesterday was by far the most unexpected but at the same time a delightful experience.

My mosque-hopping escapades were mostly a spontaneous affair. Last night was no different. It was already about 5 p.m. and I thought since there would be a soccer gathering at ECP sports planet at around 11 p.m., might as well go to Masjid Kampong Siglap. As soon as I entered the mosque, I bumped into bro Ash-Shafi’ie, one of the Islaamic University of Madeenah undergrads who was attached for work there. While waiting for Isya’ prayers, I was thinking about where to have a bite after the night prayers before the soccer meet when I saw bro Khairu Rejal,

“Salam, apa ko buat kat sini bro?”
“Wassalaam. Ada program ah nanti lepas taraweeh 8 rakaat, join ah!”
“Program apa?”
“Ada sharing session gitu, join je”

Just before I entered the function room where the ‘sharing session’ was held, I bumped into bro Dzar, one of my current schoolmates. Then as I entered the room, I saw Dr Al-Bakri and went over to say Hi. Hm, event apa nie? Macam serious je, I thought. Only after further enquiry that I realized it was an iftar, tazkirah and qiyam program jointly organized by the different bodies of Muslim activists in Singapore. And I wasn’t part of any organisation, haha. Freelance lah. I guess being invited by Bro Khairu would make me part of SAFF eh? Boleh? I also met Bro Muhammad from NTU at the talk, who just recently got married. He was my bunkmate during NS. Small world uh.

The tazkirah session was short but enriching. Topic was Da’iyah and Tarbiyah, presented by Ustaz Zainal Arifin former mudir of Madrasah Aljunied. His knowledge is vast, Masya Allaah. Baarakallaahu feeh. The tazkirah session was too good to give it a miss that I decided to come a little late for the soccer meet. Ok lah, at least I’d still have 2 hours of soccer. But it was extended for another hour anyway. Hah.

Anyway, da’wah and tarbiyah is a responsibility of each and every Muslim. There are numerous references we can turn to in the Noble Qur’an and about the basis of da’wah by the Prophets and the importance of spreading knowledge from what we have learned and practiced. For example Allah Almighty says in the Noble Qur’an in these few verses for example;

{“(And remember) when Allaah took a covenant from those who were given the Scripture (Jews and Christians) to make it (the news of the coming of Prophet Muhammad s.a.w and the religious knowledge) known and clear to mankind, and not to hide it..”} [Suurah Al-‘Imraan 3:187]. This ayat demands those who are endowed with knowledge should teach it. While the verses that follow show that it is Haraam to conceal it.

{“And who is better in speech than he who [says: ‘My Lord is Allaah (believes in His Oneness),’ and then stands firm (acts upon His Order), and] invites (men) to Allaah’s (Islaamic Monotheism)…” [Suurah Fussilat 41:33]

{“Invite (mankind, O Muhammad s.a.w.) to the way of your Lord (i.e. Islaam) with wisdom (i.e. with the Divine Revelation and the Qur’an) and fair preaching, and argue with them in a way that is better…”} [Suurah An-Nahl 16:125]

There are also hadeeths mentioning the importance and excellence of tarbiyah (teaching).

`Ali said that the Messenger of Allah said to him: "If Allah guides a man through your help, it is better (for you) than red camels." [Bukahari and Muslim]
N.B. Red camels at that time were from among the people's most precious possession. He also said: Whoever acquires knowledge and keep it concealed Allah will bridle him with a bridle of fire on the Day of Resurrection. [Abu Dawood, Ibn Majah, At-Tirmidhi]

He also said: "Verily Allah, His angels, the inmates of the heavens and the earth, even the ant in its hole and the fish in the sea send salutation on the one who teaches good to the people." [Its chain is Hassan]. He said: "If the son of Adam dies, all his works is stopped except three. Charity that‘s continuous, useful knowledge or a righteous child who supplicates for him." [Muslim]

The messenger of Allah said: "Whoever guides or directs to good, then he gets the same amount of blessing as the one who does it." [Related by Muslim].

Since there was going to be another tazkirah session after fajr prayers by Ustaz Zainal Arifin, I decided to come back to the Mosque after the soccer meet. This time, the soccer meet was attended by lesser people as compared to last week. This meant more playing time for us and faster ‘pancit’ time. What to do? This is the reality of getting further from the tireless age of youth and the result of practicing a lifestyle of irregular exercise, tsk tsk. But it was still all good, merapatkan ukhuwwah antara kita, alhamdulillaah.



Back to the mosque, I realised that three other bros from the Islaamic University of Madeenah were at the mosque too, Wafi, Zainal and his brother, Umar. They were helping out for the RYC camp for youths. Masya Allaah, I met so many people in one place.

The morning tazkirah was mainly about the meaning and importance behind Suurah Al-Asr. Basically, it somewhat depicts the code of conduct, what the past Prophets and the early generation Muslims who strive in the cause of Islam hold on to. Ustaz also stressed on the importance of understanding ‘Aqeedah the way the salafussoleh (Prophet Muhammad’s companions and the two generations thereafter) believed. This is the basis for a Muslim. If one's understanding of ‘Aqeedah is strong and sound, then everything else will fall in place.

Another thing that I'm impressed apart from the ustaz's knowledge is how humble and approachable he is. He went around interacting with all those who were present irregardless of standing or age. He's like a fatherly figure to all of us.

Alhamdulillaah, for the opportunity and experience gained. Some of the things I’ve learned and experienced so far for this Ramadan while Mosque-hopping, would never have occurred if I had just stayed at home or remained in my area for night prayers.

We still have about 13 days to go, insya Allaah. Let’s try our best for these remaining days and nights of Ramadhan being firm and steadfast on the good that we have done so far and let's strive to increase our efforts and may we be blessed and granted the opportunity to meet the Night of Al-Qadr’(decree), a night better than a thousand months.

And Allaah Almighty knows best.

Avoid The Secret Sins

Just a reminder for myself and all. English translations available for the vid.

{"But verily, over you (are appointed angels in charge of mankind) to watch you, Kiraaman (honourable) Kaatibiin - writing down (your deeds), They know all that you do."} [Suurah Al-Infitaar 82:(10-12)]

{"There is no human being but has a protector over him (or her) (i.e. angels in charge of each human being guarding him, writing his good and bad deeds"} [Suurah At-Taariq 86:4]





Let's work on improving ourselves and striving in performing good deeds and staying away from bad deeds as much as possible. Seek help and ask from Allaah and only Allaah. Don't stop supplicating, hoping and asking from Allaah.

Allaah Almighty says in Suurah Al-Baqarah 2:186,

{"And when My slaves ask you (O Muhammad s.a.w.) concerning Me, then (answer them), I am indeed near (to them by My Knowledge). I respond to the invocations of the supplicant when he calls on Me (without any mediator or intercessor). So let them obey Me and believe in Me, so that they may be led aright."}

in conjuction with this Suurah is the following hadeeth qudsi,

Narrated Abu Hurairah (radhiallaahu 'anhu) : The Prophet (sallallaahu 'alaihi wasallaam) said, "Allaah said, 'I will declare war against him who shows hostility to a pious worshipper of Mine. And the most beloved things with which My slave comes nearer to Me through performing Nawaafil (praying or doing extra deeds besides what is obligatory) till I love him. Then 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), and I do not hesitate to do anything as I hesitate to take the soul of the believer, for he hates death, and I hate to disappoit him.'" [Sahih Al-Bukhari, 8/6502 (O.P.509)] - Interpretation of the Meanings of The Noble Qur'aan; A Summarized Version of At-Tabari, Al-Qurtubi and Ibn Kathir with Comments from Sahih Al-Bukhari

How time flies..

How time flies. It’s been more than a week now since touchdown in Singapore and almost everyday since day one, I’ve been going out to catch up with friends or family. It was a different approach to how I spent it the last time I came back for a holiday that my mum exclaimed,

“Aii.. asik keluar je wan?!”

Last year it was more like, “Wan asik duduk rumah je, tak keluar ke??”

Hm, keluar kena tegur. Tak keluar pon kena tegur juga? Ha. It’s great being able to meet people whom you haven’t seen for a while and catching up. The existence of facebook has actually made it easier to get to know the progress of others’ lives, while you’re being far away from home. However, nothing beats experiencing it firsthand.

One of the things I've realised that I really miss is the food, though I'm not really a fan of food. I just eat to live, not live to eat. Most of the times the food we eat at Saudi is just dry rice with chicken or beef. And vegetables are almost non-existant. So imagine how it was, when I tasted 'beef hor fun', for the first time in almost a year! It tasted so good and uplifting that I exclaimed,

"Waaah.. this is REAL food man!!" and I savored it till the last drop.

A while later, I noticed a couple of friends who ordered the same dish did not finish thier portion and even pushed the food aside. I asked,

"Eh, tak habis ke? Sedap pe?" and he replied nonchalantly,

"Tak ah, dah muak ah.." Haiz..

While catching up have been good, I wish I could find a way to do more to aid the situation of friends who over the years, became distanced from the most important part of being a Muslim which is the obligatory prayers. Some of my friends who don't salaat regularly aren't that ignorant of Islam. In fact some even love to talk and discuss about Islam but they don't see the importance of performing salaat.

-excerpt from islamonline.net with modifications- The 5 obligatory prayers (salaat) is the second most important aspect for a Muslim after the testimony of faith, (“There is no god but God and Muhammad is the Messenger of God”) and they are the first thing the Muslim will be asked about on Judgment Day.

No matter what the actions of a Muslim, the most important is his relationship with Allaah, and salaat will aid the Muslim in reminding himself of his position in the universe as a humble servant of Allah and of his total dependence on his Creator, Cherisher and Sustainer.

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) compared this experience of making ablution and praying five times a day to having a river running in front of one’s house. If one bathed in that river five times a day, would any filth remain on his body? Likewise, the ablution and Prayer five times a day removes one’s sins and also prevents him from sinning. -end-

We may reason that at times the timing for prayers clash with our busy schedule. However, there is no excuse. When one encounters difficulties in performing a prayer, there's always a solution. We can pray anytime and anywhere. No place? Just any clean, small space that fits for performing prayers will do. Don't know direction? There are compasses sold which point to the direction of the kiblah. Can't find water for ablution? We can perform tayammum. It takes at minimum just 5-10 mins of our time. We can do jama' prayers (joining dhuhur and asar or maghrib and isya' in one period) if the situation really calls for it when we're really caught up in something important for example. We have to schedule our daily activities around the timings of salaat. This is how we show our commitment to Allaah just like fasting or zakat.

Allah Almighty says in the Qur'aan,

{"And perform As-Salaat (the prayers), at the two ends of the day and in some hours of the night [i.e. the five compulsory Salaat (prayers)]. Verily, the good deeds remove the evil deeds (i.e. small sins). That is a reminder (an advice) for the mindful (those who accept advice)."} [Suurah Huud 11:114]

Maybe some of us may think, "Hm i'll just Qadha' (make up for it) later". -excerpt from islamonline.net- However, if we miss a Salaat for no excuse then we cannot pray it as a Qadha. In reality, any Salaat should be done on time. When we miss a Salaat because we are asleep or forgot about it, then we should make it the time we wake up or remember as if that was the time for it. The Prophet (pbuh) says: " The one who misses a Salaat because he is asleep or has forgotten, let him make it when he remembers it".

A Muslim who misses a Salaat deliberately cannot make up Salaat. The only answer for such negligence is to make sincere repentance (Tawbah) and vow to Allah that he/she would not miss Salaat anymore. After making Tawbah, it is recommended to make any optional Salaat, but not on the grounds of Qadha. -end-

l pray that Allaah will open thier hearts and minds and make them want to change and perform thier obligations in Islaam well even with the challenges that they face in society today, with istiqaamah (being firm and straight, steadfastness).

Allaah Almighty says in the Noble Qur'an,

{"Verily, those who say: 'Our Lord is Allaah (Alone),' and then they stand firm, on them the angels will descend (at the time of thier death) (saying): 'Fear not, nor grieve! But receive the glad tidings of Paradise which you have been promised!'} [Suurah Fussilat 41:30]

He also says,

{"So stand (ask Allaah to make) you (Muhammad s.a.w.) firm and straight (on the religion of Islaamic Monotheism) as you are commanded and those (your companions) who turn in repentance (to Allaah) with you, and transgress not (Allaah's legal limits). Verily, He is All-Seer of what you do."} [Suurah Huud 11:112]

Anyway, my dad actually talked to me about marriage for the first time. I see a green light blinking. Now I just have to find the right person, insya Allaah. I hope Allaah grants me ease and patience in this and guidance to being a better Muslim and being a good leader, caregiver and provider. Since a few years back, there have been prospects but I haven’t had success with any even though they seem to be so compatible and at some point, it seemed highly possible. Siapalah saya ni kan, tsk tsk. Laa, jiwang la pulak.

But Alhamdulillaah, I’m not that bothered about it actually. I feel it’s just because I haven’t found the right person. As what people say, "Kalau dah jodoh tu tak ke mana". If that person is meant for me, insya Allaah, everything will be in place and run more smoothly. And also the fact that we have to trust and be patient with Allaah's decree. If we are still unmarried, it is simply because Almighty Allah has willed that we'd be single at this point in time.

Hm, maybe I should just leave it to my mum? Naaah.. I remember once, I joked to her about this and she said, “Alaa, nanti dah carikan tak suka pula!!”. Haa. Anyway, I’m grateful for these experiences, it can only make me stronger and I’m thankful that Allaah have guided me to seek a prospect in this manner and stay away from dating and indulging in intimate pre-marital relationships.. Oh bukanlah cantikmu yang ku cari, bukanlah itu yang aku nanti, tetapi ketulusan hati yang abadi..

Alhamdulillaah, for the chance to meet the blessed month of Ramadan again. I’ve started Mosque-hopping to experience the night prayers at different mosques in Singapore. “Wah so free ah?!!” some might think. Yea, alhamdulillaah, I’ve no plans to work during the short holiday here. Don’t be jealous eh (muhaha). Insya Allaah, I hope to cover more ground, north to south and east to west. So far, I’ve been to only three. Masjid Kampong Holland (homeground), Masjid Kassim and Muhammadiyyah. One of the aims is also to catch up with friends living in the vicinity of the mosques if possible. Honestly, I’m still ignorant of the existence and location of most of the mosques around Singapore. Hm, where should I explore next?

How to boost Ramadan Spirit

article from islamonline.net..

How to Boost Ramadan Spirit
By Sound Vision Staff Writer

Ramadan, the month of the Qur’an, represents an invaluable opportunity for all believers to recharge the batteries of faith and draw close to their Lord. A wise Muslim should be keen to make best use of these blessed moments. If Muslims are unable to undistractedly focus on the hereafter all the time, let them at least do so during this short, yet boundlessly blessed, period of time. Below are some tips on how to boost your spirit during this longed-for month:

1- Du`a’

Ask Almighty Allah to make this the most inspiring, spiritually uplifting Ramadan you have ever had. Allah is the Only Who can make this happen and complete reliance on Him completely is the major step in boosting our spirits.

2- Clear Your Mind

Turn off the TV, the computer, the radio, your cell phone, pager, iPod, etc. You need not do so all day long, but for at least 10 minutes a day. Find a quiet place where you can close your eyes, remember your Lord and think deeply about your relationship with Him.

At first, your mind will swirl with the useless and not-so-useful thoughts in your head. Force them away and focus your thought during these few minutes on three things: Almighty Allah, your purpose in life, and whether you are making due efforts to achieve that purpose.

Do this every day of Ramadan, if you can. Should this be not possible, do it at least three times a week.

3- Learn About Great Muslim Figures

Even if you have read it or listened to it before, again read or listen to `Abdul-Wahid Hamid's Companions of the Prophet during this Ramadan. Read about or listen daily to a Companion's story. Well-written and short, these stories inform us in a wonderful way about these noble personalities and about how they maintained the strength of their faith against incredible odds. What a sure-fire spirituality booster!

4- Connect to the Qur’an

The noble Qur’an is the means whereby Almighty Allah talks to us. Indeed, it is the most important key to spiritual upliftment. During this Ramadan, connect to the Qur’an in a new way.

If you already recite the Qur’an regularly, you can choose a new theme to focus on or select a particular Surah you have not read for a while. If, however, you are not a frequent reader of the Qur’an, you can start by reciting it for only two minutes a day; recite from the first page you encounter when you open the mushaf (copy of the Qur’an).

It is also recommended that you keep a Qur’anic journal in which you can record your reflections, questions, thoughts, etc., about what you recite.

5- Take Care of Others

Whether it is a person who is away from his family, a person who is having problems with his or her spouse or kids, or fellow students struggling with their grades, make an extra effort this Ramadan to help others out. The spiritual boost you get in return is well worth it.

6- Feed the Hungry

While your stomach shrieks in protest, give that panhandler some change, volunteer at a soup kitchen, get involved with your local food pantry or make a couple of bag lunches to give to the hungry you meet on your way to school or work.

7- Give Up One Lifelong Bad Habit

Ask yourself what your fundamental defining traits are. Then decide which is the worst of them. Is it a hot temper? Apathy? Laziness? Impatience? Whatever it may be, utilize this Ramadan to get rid of it. Practice the opposite of this bad habit of yours every day until the end of the month. By then, in sha’ Allah, you will look back and be amazed at the change you have made for the better.

8- Use Those Nights of Power

The last ten nights or Ramadan are not called the Nights of Power for nothing. Use these precious times for deep, heartfelt du`aa’, self-analysis, reflection and serious thought.

This article has been taken with modifications from soundvision.com.

The Third is the Shaytan.

got this off maqasid.wordpress.com.. Masya Allaah, a website with good and intersting articles.

The messenger of Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said: “Whenever a non-mahram man and woman meet in seclusion, Shaytan definitely is the third one joining them.” [Tirmidhi]

The meaning of the hadith is that Shaytan arouses their passions and incites them to commit evil. Prevention is better than cure. Fornication and adultery rip to shreds the psychological health of society. Since the family is the building block of society, for a society to be healthy, it must have healthy families that constitute it.

To prevent any situation arising which might harm the family unit, Islam nips the source of problems in the bud. A person is responsible not only for himself or herself but for the spiritual, emotional, psychological and physical well being of their children as much as it is in their control.

From their children will arise many more generations. Keeping this in mind we have to do our best to provide as healthy a moral environment as we can so we are not held responsible for the destruction of future generations.

“If the breakdown of the family and female security is to be averted, only two strategies are available: firstly, members of society may be conditioned to believe that sexuality is from the devil, and should inspire feelings of guilt and distaste; or secondly, sexuality may be accepted as the loving expression of a natural human need, in which case the sexes must be separated, within reason, to avoid the risk of the temptation of weak souls and hence their unchastity.”

“Historically, the first of these two choices has been that of Christianity, while Islam has opted for the second. The modern Western attitude, in which there is both an obsession with sexuality and a casual mingling of men and women, and which has resulted in massive promiscuity (and hence infidelity, divorce, abortion and disease) does not represent an ethically coherent system.” [The Seventy-Seven Branches of Faith, translator’s note, The Quilliam Press]

Wallaahu ‘alam

Two Basic Conditions.

{"Those whose efforts have been wasted in this life while they thought that they were acquiring good by thier deeds."} [Suurah Al-Kahf 18:104]

For the acceptance of the righteous deeds it is stipulated that the following two basic conditions must be fullfilled:

a) The intentions while doing such deeds must be totally for Allaah's sake only without any show-off of to gain praise or fame.

b) Such a deed must be performed in accordance with the Sunnah of Allaah's Messenger Muhammad bin 'Abdullaah (sallallaahu 'alaihi wasallaam), the last of the Prophets and the Messengers.

Narrated 'Aa'ishah (radhiallaahu 'anhaa): Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu 'alaihi wasallaam) said, "If somebody innovates something which is not present in our religion (of Islaamic Monotheism), then that thing will be rejected." [Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree, 3/2697 (O.P.861)]

In another Hadeeth narrated 'Aa'ishah (radhiallaahu 'anhaa): The Prophet (sallallaahu 'alaihi wasallaam) said: "Whoever performs a (good) deed which we have not ordered (anyone) to do (or is not in accordance with our religion of Islaamic Monotheism), then that deed will be rejected and will not be accepted." [Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree, Vol.9, The Book of holding fast to the Qur'aan ad the Sunnah, Chapter No.20, before Hadeeth No.449 (O.P.)]

Focus yang salah terhadap hiburan.

Dr Asri at his best.. (",)

Barsisa the Worshipper (turned Renegade)

article from islamonline.net, Qur'an section.

This is a reminder for all about a true story in the Qur'an, that we are always in danger of falling into sins as Satan is always with us, whispering through our nafs al amaarah (lowly self desires leaning towards evil) and planning all kinds of ways to cause us to neglect our duties as a Muslim, commit sins or lead us astray. No matter who, even if a person seems to be very pious, if we are not careful, let our guard down, neglect our senses, neglect the warning signs and follow our emotions and nafs, that's probably when we'll most likely be defeated.

The reality is that we humans are naturally imperfect and weak. No one is free from making mistakes and commiting minor sins now and then. Thus, to counter this and save ourselves, we have to always try our best to increase in performing good deeds, striving for it to outweigh the bad and avoid falling into major sins at all cost. As Allah Almighty says in Surah Al-A'raf verse 8: {And the weighing on the day (Day of Resurrection) will be the true (weighing). So, as for those whose Scale (of good deeds) will be heavy, they would be successful (by entering Paradise)}. May Allah guide us to regularly perform good deeds that He would accept and acknowledge, guide us away from our weaknesses and misgivings and forgive our sins whenever we forget or fall into error. Ameen.

Translated by `Ali As-Sayed Al-Halawani
Deputy Editor in Chief - English IslamOnline.net

Allah the Almighty says in His Glorious Qur'an: {(Their allies deceived them) like Shaitan (Satan), when he says to man: "Disbelieve in Allah." But when (man) disbelieves in Allah, Shaitan (Satan) says: "I am free of you, I fear Allah, the Lord of the `Alamin (mankind, jinn and all that exists)!" So the end of both will be that they will be in the Fire, abiding therein. Such is the recompense of the Zalimun (i.e. polytheists, wrong-doers, disbelievers in Allah and in His Oneness)}. (Al-Hashr 16-17)

Ibn Jarir said that `Abdullah Ibn Mas`ud interpreted the above Qur'anic verse. Ibn Mas`ud (may Allah be pleased with him) said:

Once, there was a woman grazing sheep and goats. She had four brothers. She (for some reason) used to spend the night at a monk's cell. The monk committed fornication with her and she got pregnant. Satan came to him and said: Kill the woman and then bury her, for you are a reputable and highly respected man. (That is, don't risk your own reputation for such a simple woman). The monk killed her and then buried her. Thereupon, Satan visited her four brothers in a dream while they were asleep and said to them: The monk committed fornication with your sister, and because she got pregnant, he killed her and buried her in such-and-such location.

In the morning, one of them said: By Allah! Last night I dreamed of something and I do not know whether to relate it to you or just keep it to myself. They said: Relate it to us. He did so and one of them said: By Allah! I saw the same dream. Another said the same. And the fourth one said the same thing. They agreed that there must be something serious about that dream.

They went to the king and appealed for his help against the monk. The king's troops came to arrest him and he was taken away. On the way, Satan came to the monk (and whispered in his ears): I set you up. No one else can save you from this. Prostrate yourself before me just for once and in return, I will save you from this. Thereupon, the monk prostrated himself before Satan. When they presented themselves before the king, Satan said to him: I am free of you! Finally, the monk was killed.

The same story was narrated by the Leader of the Believers, `Ali Ibn Abi Talib (may Allah be pleased with him) with another wording. Ibn Jarir said: I was told by Khallad Ibn Aslam, on the authority of An-Nadr Ibn Shamil after Shu`bah, after Abu Ishaq, after `Abdullah Ibn Nahik saying: I heard `Ali as saying:

A monk worshiped Allah Alone for sixty years. Satan exerted himself to seduce him, but could not. He went to a woman and touched her with evil (maddened her). The woman had brothers who were visited by Satan, who told them to take her to that monk to receive treatment and cure. They took her to the monk and he treated her. Afterwards, she stayed for a while at his cell (house).

One day, he was attracted to her and he committed fornication with her. She got pregnant and he killed her (to conceal his first crime). Her brothers came (after knowing the matter) and Satan appeared again to the monk and said: I am your friend, I did not find a solution or way to mislead you, but (finally) I set you up. So, obey me and I will save you from this. Prostrate yourself before me and you will be saved. The monk did so.

Then, Satan said: {"I am free of you, I fear Allah, the Lord of the `Alamin (mankind, jinn and all that exists)!"}. (Al-Hashr 16)

This is the interpretation of Allah's Saying: {(Their allies deceived them) like Shaitan (Satan), when he says to man: "Disbelieve in Allah." But when (man) disbelieves in Allah, Shaitan (Satan) says: "I am free of you, I fear Allah, the Lord of the `Alamin (mankind, jinn and all that exists)!" So the end of both will be that they will be in the Fire, abiding therein. Such is the recompense of the Zalimun (i.e. polytheists, wrong-doers, disbelievers in Allah and in His Oneness)}. (Al-Hashr 16-17)

`Ali As-Sayed Al-Halawani is a doctoral candidate, the managing editor of the Shari`ah Department (English IslamOnline.net), and deputy editor in chief of the the same site. He graduated from Al-Azhar University and got his MA in religious translation from the Faculty of Al-Alsun (Languages), Al-Minia University. He writes occasionally for Islamonline.net. You can reach him at ali.halawani@iolteam.com.

Before and After

"Before & After ISLAM" - Poem by Yusuf Estes

I see now my quest in life had been in vain.
I desired pleasure and material gain.
For those around me, my goals where plain,
I tried to achieve them all without regard to pain.
I wanted the glitter and glamour this world provides.
I couldn't see the treasures that all this hide.
My 'Quest for wealth' - could never buy what I needed most.
My 'Search for fame' - was like trying to catch a ghost.
But when my prayers were for 'Guidance' from the 'One Above'.
I found success in 'Total Submission' to the Will of Him - in Love.
I found all the riches, glory and happiness that one might require,
But most of all I discovered my real heart's desire.
I found the which is the secret of Life's Lease,
I found the One Who Gave all, when He gave me PEACE.
It finally came after all those years of trouble and strife
That to do "ISLAM" is the PURPOSE OF LIFE.

link - http://islamtomorrow.com/success.asp

Aqeedah in simple terms

Narrated Ibn 'Abbas (radiallaahu 'anhuma) : Once I was behind the Prophet (sallallaahu'alaihi wa sallaam) and he said:

"O boy, I will teach you a few words:

a) Be loyal and obedient to Allaah [worship Him (Alone)], remember Him always, obey His Orders. He will save you from every evil and will take care of you in all the spheres of life.

b) Be loyal and obedient to Allaah, you will find Him near (in front of you), i.e. He will respond your requests.

c) If you ask, ask Allaah.

d) If you seek help, seek help from Allaah.

e) Know that if all the people get together in order to benefit you with something, they will not be able to benefit you in anything except what Allaah has decreed for you. And if they all get together in order to harm you with something, they will not be able to harm you in anything except what Allaah has decreed for you. The pens have stopped writing [Divine (Allaah's) Preordainment]. And (the ink over) the papers (Book of Decrees) have dried." (Hadeeth is quoted from Sahih At-Tirmidhi)

Living a Single Life

Here's an article from islamonline.net which reminded me of a question once asked by a friend of mine. She had asked me, "Is it ok if I remained single?". I think this article is a different and probably a better perspective and answer on the nature of her question than what I had in mind.

Living a Single Life *
Weapon of the Believers

By Fatimah Asmaal
A Muslim Writer

During my first trip to Makkah as a 24-year-old, I met a mother who, 11 years after giving birth to her first child, desperately wanted another baby. Three years after going through a divorce, I too was desperate to get married again.

When I told this sister about the feelings of disillusionment and loneliness I was experiencing, she told me how she was addressing her need during her time in this blessed city and advised me to do the same. She told me that in every step she took during her pilgrimage, she would fervently make du`aa' (supplication) to Allah, asking Him to bless her with another child.

She said she did this during Sa`i (walking) between Safa and Marwah and that actually everywhere she went she reminded herself to make this du`aa'. She suggested that I too should implore Almighty Allah in a similar manner. I left the sister's hotel room, with a spring in my step, on a similar mission.

Supplications and Trials

Everywhere I went, I asked Allah the Bestower to bless me with a husband:

Oh Allah, grant me a husband who is a memorizer of the Qur'an.

Oh Allah, bless me with a husband who loves knowledge and is actively seeking it.

Oh Allah, bless me with a husband who is willing to give up his life in Your path.

I did not want to go home just to live the unfulfilling and empty life I felt I had been living. I rather kept pouring these feelings out in my prayers and crying my heart out every step of the way.

When I returned to South Africa, I received a phone call from a relative, who told me she wanted to introduce me to a brother who is a memorizer of the Qur'an and an active seeker of religious knowledge. Excited that Almighty Allah had answered my prayers, I immediately agreed to the introduction.

So, I met the brother and performed Istikharah (Prayer involving supplication for guidance in making a decision). However, I did not end up married to him. After three years of not having been introduced to marital prospects, I suddenly found myself — following Hajj — inundated with calls from friends and family members eagerly asking me to meet brothers they felt I would be compatible with. I met them all, yet, surprisingly, I did not end up married to any of them.

Awareness and Change

I realized that my Merciful Lord was showing me that the time was not quite right for me to marry — that although there were hundreds of brothers in the world who possessed the criteria I was looking for, they were not necessarily the marriage partners He had destined for me. I thought, "When it is the appropriate time for me to get married — according to His Divine Wisdom, not my limited understanding — He will surely bring the right person into my life."

Uplifted by this realization, I motivated myself over again and rechanneled my energy. I continued to make sincere du`aa' for marriage; I did not stop showing interest in meeting prospective husbands. But that was no longer the obsession I previously used to have or the yardstick by which I would measure fulfillment. Thus, I began to seek fulfillment in other ways. I immersed myself in teaching Islam to women and teenage girls, publishing Islamic reading material, and performing other forms of da`wah (inviting people to Islam).

I know that some are probably waiting for the part where I would talk about my happy ending — that, a few years later, I met the man who had everything I wanted and more, and we got married and lived happily ever after.

But, life is not a fairy tale. Happiness does not start and last with getting the person one wants and living a life of bliss with him or her. Happiness is about passing the tests we are faced with in this world while remaining firm in our faith, with the aim of standing before Almighty Allah on the Day of Judgment rich in good deeds.

I did get married, yes. But again, it did not work. Now I am living a single life again. However, it is not half as bad as people sometimes make it out to be.

Undoubtedly, I want to get married again. The same naturally holds true for all those who are not married. So, if anyone is unmarried, he or she should want to marry and make an earnest effort toward this. How can we not do that? The Messenger of Allah, Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him), reportedly told us:

"Marriage is a sunnah of mine, and whoever does not follow my Sunnah is not of my followers." (Ibn Majah)

Therefore, we also have to remember that just as marriage is an integral part of faith, so is exercising trust in and patience with the decree of Allah, All-Wise. We have to realize that — ultimately — if we are still unmarried, it is simply because Almighty Allah has willed that we be single at this point in time.

We have to opt for one of two choices: to lose sleep over it, beat ourselves up everyday, and feel really sorry for ourselves, or to realize that the time we have in our hands is a gift from our Lord and a trust from Him that should not to be wasted in counterproductive thoughts and futile tears and fears.

Having come to grasp the value of time, we have to start spending it in the most beneficial way. We can engage in such activities that our married sisters might not always be able to enjoy. We can take part in seeking knowledge, engage in da`wah work, volunteer our time for organizations that serve the poor and the aged, spend quality time with our parents, and baby-sit the children of our married friends so that they can spend some time engaging in these activities as well. The list goes on and on.

This is how a single life should be lived. If Almighty Allah wills, somewhere in the midst of living and reveling in the joy and fulfillment such a life brings, Mr. Right will come along. And if he doesn't, so what? Perhaps he will be waiting in Paradise, as a reward for the patience you exhibited in this transient world.

Celibacy comes with its challenges, just like marriage does. But, this is not the end of the world. So, get up, take a deep breath, hand this affair over to Allah, and start living the life He has given to you!


* Excerpt from Sisters magazine courtesy of sisters-magazine.com

Fatimah Asmaal is a freelance writer and broadcast journalist based in Durban, South Africa. Her work has featured in many local and international publications. She is well known for her live, interactive radio shows broadcast on two South African Islamic radio stations over the past three years. She studied journalism in the late 1990s. Fatimah is also passionate about studying, teaching, and talking about Islam. She studied Arabic in South Africa and in Egypt. She taught the basics of Islam to children in the United Kingdom, as well as to adults and teenagers in South Africa.

Who Are the Companions?

article from islamonline.net

By Muhammad ibn Saleh Aal `Uthaymeen
Scholar - KSA

If you ask a group of Muslims: "Who are the Sahabah (or Prophet's Companions)?", you will most probably receive different answers. Some would say that the Companions are those who saw the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him); others would say that they are those who accompanied the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) for a long time; and yet others would say that the Companions are any Muslims who lived during the time of Allah's Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him). These different answers shed light on the need to specify the exact definition of the Companions due to their high rank in Islam.

Who Is a Companion?

A Companion is any individual who met the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) or saw him, believed in him and his message and then died adhering to that belief. The great scholar, Ibn Hajar Al-`Asqalani said in Al–Ishabah, "The most correct of what I have come across is that one of Sahabah (or a Companion of the Prophet) is one who met the Prophet of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) while believing in him and died as a Muslim. So, that definition includes those who remained with him (the Prophet) for a long or short time; those who narrated his sayings and those who did not; those who saw him but did not sit with him; and those who could not see him due to blindness."

So, a man who embraced Islam during the lifetime of the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) and met him but later became an apostate, and then repented and accepted Islam again and died as an adherent of Islam is a Companion, for example, Al–Ash`ath ibn Qays.

However, a person who embraced Islam during the lifetime of the Prophet of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) but did not meet him, is not considered a Companion, for example, An-Najashi, the king of Ethiopia at the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).

Likewise, a person whom embraced Islam and met the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him), but later became an apostate and died as an unbeliever is also not a Companion, for example, `Abdullah ibn Khalaf and Rabi`ah ibn Umayyah who became apostates during the reign of `Umar ibn Al-Khattab and died in that state.

Number of the Companions and the Last of Them

There were too many Companions to give an accurate figure of them all. However, it has been estimated that there were around 114,000.

It is worth mentioning that none of the Companions died after the year 110 A.H. That is in accordance with a statement made by the Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) one month before his death. `Abdulla h ibn `Umar narrated: "The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) prayed`Isha’ Prayer with us in the last days of his life, then just after he finished, he stood up, and said, "After one hundred years from this night, there will be no one from those who are living today on the face of the earth." (Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Based on that hadith, none of the Companions died after the year 110 A.H. as the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) died in the year 10 A.H.

There are some benefits in knowing the Companions who died last. One of these benefits is that whoever claimed to be a Companion but died after the year 110 A.H., this claim is rejected outright. Below are the names of the Companions who died last and their place of death:

• The last Companion who died in Makkah was `Amr bin Wathilah Al-Laythi, who died in the year 110 A.H. No other Companion lived longer than him.

• The last Companion who died in Madinah was Muhammad ibn Ar-Rabi`ah Al-Ansari Al-Khazraji who died in the year 99 A.H.

• The last Companion who died in Damascus, was Wathilah bin Aska` Al-Laythi who died in the year 86 A.H.

• The last Companion who died in Hims was `Abdullaah bin Bisr Al-Mazini who died in the year 96 A.H.

• The last Companion who died in Basrah was Anas bin Maalik al-AnsarI Al-Khazraji, who died in the year 93 A.H.

• The last Companion who died in Kufah was `Abdullaah ibn Abi Awfa Al-Aslami, who died in the year 87 A.H.

• The last Companion who died in Egypt was `Abdullaah ibn Al-Harith ibn Jaz' Az-Zubaydi who died in the year 89 A.H.

May Allah be pleased with them all.

* Taken with modification from Sheikh Muhammad ibn Saleh Aal `Uthaymeen's "Mustalah Al-Hadith".

Muhammad ibn Saleh Aal `Uthaymeen is an eminent scholar of Fiqh and tafseer. He was born in KSA and died there in 1421 A.H.