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@Bint e Aisha @ummtaalib Interview with my Teacher, Ustadh Samir Ismail The Revert Experience: Real Challenges, Real Advice (Part 1) New Muslim Essentials: Qur’an, Salah, and First Steps (Part 2) Why Tablighi Jamaat Changed in America? (Part 3)

Allahu Akbar, Walillahil-Hamd First Taraweeh in 88 years will be led by (Maulana) Professor Ali Erbas (HA), himself tonight

As-Salaam alaikum, Have you ever considered the acquisition of the sweetness of faith (Imaan) and that immense enjoyment in the worship (Ibaadah) we do? The pleasure a person finds in his Sallaah impels him to delay his Sajdas. His Zikr of Allah Ta'ala emanates from the deep recesses of his heart... intoxicating him. The requirement for this intoxication and ecstasy is not wine or worldly love; the requirement for this 'high' is neither heroine nor cocaine, it is the Remembrance of his Beloved Lord (Allahu). When he recites the Holy Qur'an, it is as if he is conversing with his Rabb. The Speech of Allah Ta'ala, which he recites, deeply impresses upon his heart and establishes a profound and strong Imaan within him. With a deep hearted enjoyment, he believes that his Lord, Allah, is listening to His Own Kalaam (Speech) from the tongue of His sinful servant. Allahu Akbar! Wa Lillahil-Hamd!!

Read here: https://www-independent-co-uk.cdn.ampproject.org/c/s/www.independent.co.uk/voices/september-11-guantanamo-bay-war-on-terror-afghanistan-b1917879.html?amp

From Afghan women regarding Afghan women VID_150010127_044805_681.mp4 VID_150010715_052943_075.mp4 VID_150010827_104245_366.mp4

Thank you very much respected Admin for publishing my post. I shall abide by the rules and regulations of this site by the grace of God. Mohammad Rafique Etesam ( shaikhrafiquee)

wa'alaykumus salam warahmatullah I asked and recieved following reply so it can be done but I dont think people with websites would take the risk

This is the stance of Islamic political parties: https://www.dawn.com/news/amp/1641051 I don't know of any Deobandi madrasah in Pakistan that does not hail and support Afghan Taliban. Ghair muqallideen / ahle hadith Ulama also support them. I've heard them showing approval and praising them in their speeches but I don't know if they support them in any other way.

we should ask a scholar knowledegable in these matters

Amount of water used by Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) for wudhu and ghusl Q: How many litres of water would Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) use for wudhu and for ghusl? A: Hazrat ‘Aaishah (radhiyallahu anha) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) used one mudd of water for wudhu and one saa’ for ghusl. One mudd amounts to approximately 1.03 litres and one saa’ is approximately 4.1 litres. And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best. عن أنس رضي الله عنه قال: كان النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم يغسل، أو كان يغتسل، بالصاع إلى خمسة أمداد، ويتوضأ بالمد (صحيح البخاري، الرقم: 201) عن عائشة رضي الله عنهاأن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم كان يغتسل بالصاع ويتوضأ بالمد (سنن أبي داود، الرقم: 92) فتاوى محموديه 8/122 أحسن الفتاوى 4/386 تأليفات رشيديه صـ 245 Answered by: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

At the moment I'm celebrating as well as being wary. Just because they are the Taliban, we shouldn't give them a free pass. In fact they should be held to a stricter standard. It's very early days so let's wait and see how things pan out. I don't know what their justification is in forming a relationship with China, but I'm hoping and praying that it is all in Allah's plan and inshallah we shall see the benefit. My mind keeps thinking back to the treaty of hudaibiya and how it ultimately lead to our benefit. The first time Taliban took over, they allowed the losing side to join Taliban and gave them the same positions they held when they were in opposition to the Taliban. They also allowed the opposition to hold official positions in some areas such as Kabul. I can understand their hikmat behind this, but it backfired. The ex opposition holding positions in the Taliban gained numbers and strength and caused problems for the main leadership, including ameerul mumineen mullah umar (rh). I hope this doesn't happen again. I think this is a very critical time and the Taliban need help and support from our scholars, world leaders, and general awaam.

Nothing ELSE needs to be said about the matter. KHALAS!

No he is not a scholar, just a student of knowledge But I think he can make a lot of contribution in Maliki fiqh discussion

Mufti Muhammad Shafi Explaning following incident with Shaykh al-Hind Moulānā Mahmūd al-Hasan Someone once asked Shaykh al-Hind about the hadith: “The Prophet ﷺ has said that Satan does not pass the road which is used by 'Umar." Because the same or similar was not said in relation to the Prophet ﷺ or Abu Bakr (رضي الله عنه), the question naturally arises as to why Satan should have feared Umar (رضي الله عنه) alone, even though both the Prophet ﷺ and Abu Bakr (رضي الله عنه) enjoyed a higher status than him. Mufti Muhammad Shafi' said that in responding to any kind of critical question, Shaykh al-Hind would usually commence with a pointed, but humourous kind of remark, before providing a more comprehensive reply. Hence, it came as no surprise that in answer to this question, he opened with a quick-witted observation: "It is Satan's own stupidity. I think you had best ask him why he feared Umar (رضي الله عنه ) more than the Prophet ﷺ or Abu Bakr (رضي الله عنه)!" He then cogently proceeded to offer the following explanation: "Superiority and awe are two different things. A superior person may not necessarily be the most dreaded person. In the case of Umar (رضي الله عنه) the quality of awe was a predominant characteristic, and its presence was what the hearts of the people felt most immediately. On the other hand, in the case of the Prophet ﷺ and Abū Bakr (رضي الله عنه), the quality of beauty was what predominated in their characters. Given this contrast, the immediate sense of awe when confronted with 'Umar (رضي الله عنه) is not surprising." [The Great Scholars of the Deoband Islamic Seminary by Mufti Muhammad Taqi Usmani]

I am not an Arab I am not from the Middle-East I don't speak Arabic But why does Palestine matter to me as a Muslim and as a human? How did we get here through the lens of history? https://youtu.be/RbLEiTbzCqI

Assalaamu ‘alaykum warahmatullah I will try to answer your question to the best of my ability according to what I have learnt in these “billion courses and gazillion articles”. On a side note, these courses and articles are mostly very basic, outlining the maxims for awareness. The only in-depth courses in the UK that I know of were conducted by Ustadhah Hidaya Hartford and Mufti Abdul Rahman Mangera sahib. I know there is one in Pakistan which is in Urdu and which many UK sisters have joined. Regarding: Absolutely agree with you. They probably did not even have calendars and definitely no apps and probably did not even need to record their cycles (due to the points I’ll mention below) so no dispute with you or the Mufti sahib you consulted. In order to answer your question regarding, “why this issue is so complex that it needs tables and Apps to track” I will insha-allah first have to explain some important points which have bearing on the answer. I’ll try to be as brief as possible 1 Knowledge of Sahaabiyaat RA compared to women today: The Sahaabiyaat RA lived with none other than the source of all knowledge (sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) whom they consulted through his Azwaaji Mutahharaat RA regarding these issues and would therefore be knowledgeable in this regard. Generally, among women today, ignorance of fiqhi issues prevails to the extent that many women are not aware of the faraaidh of ghusl and wudhu – not saying all women are ignorant as Alhamdulillah Allah ta’ala has blessed women great uloom throughout the ages till today 2 Things which Impact menstrual cycles: Allah ta’ala ordained for women to go through the menstrual cycles and post-natal bleeding from day one yes, however women through the ages lived in different environments which impacted their cycles differently. Many things which affect women’s cycles today were unknown in the time of the Sahaabiyaat RA. Various illnesses exist today which were unknown even a few generations ago let alone in the time of the Sahaabiyaat RA. The illnesses themselves or their treatments, medication, etc. affect women’s cycles. Added to that, there are various forms of contraception Muslim women use in our age, almost all of which cause problems with women’s cycles. The food and drink consumed today also affects women’s cycles Stress, anxiety, depression, etc. was most probably unknown in their time and this also affects women’s cycles. All this information can be verified online. 3 For non-Muslim women all of the above does not create any issue whereas the very core of the Deen is affected for Muslim women where their obligatory worship which requires the state of purity is affected (5 daily prayers, fasting of Ramadhaan, the main Tawaf of Hajj). Therefore, Muslim women need to know the basic rules of when they are allowed to continue these obligations and when to refrain and that is why there are so many books, articles and courses. 4 Misconceptions One of the greatest misconceptions that exists among many cultures is LEAVING OUT the obligatory acts of worship which require the state of purity once any type of bleeding begins. This is sinful as there are situations where a woman may be bleeding however it is termed “Istihadha” (Irregular bleeding, invalid bleeding) during which she must continue carrying out those acts of worship. 5 Few facts regarding women’s bleedings Now towards why women need to keep a record of their cycles. The Shari’ah has set out maxims regarding menstruation and post-natal bleeding. A woman’s blood can by one of three types – menstruation (haydh), post-natal (nifaas) or invalid Istihadaha). These maxims help determine which type of bleeding a woman is experiencing and as mentioned before, this impacts her obligatory acts of worship. Women develop “habits” in menstruation and purity and in the bleeding after childbirth. Please remember this point. Everything is simple as long as women’s cycles remain within the limits set out by the Shari’ah. (Note that differences of opinion exist between the Madhaahib and even within the Hanafi Madhab as these are ijtihaadi Masaail) Problems only arise when bleedings are abnormal/invalid. Many women do not experience many problems however problems do usually arise at the following stages of a woman’s life; At adolescence – Girls s begin menstruating at a much younger age than before and some start off with no regular habits and actually experience continuous or intermittent bleeding or spotting without having a complete purity of 15+ days in between bleedings (which separates two bleedings). This is generally a straight forward issue where they are “given” habits in both menstruation (10 days) and purity (20 days) which is used to determine when they can carry on their acts of obligatory worship and when they are required to refrain After child-birth – many women continue bleeding after the maximum 40 days creating confusion regarding acts of worship During menopause – most women experience a total change in their cycles from ages as early as 45 nowadays where bleeding occurs frequently without the required 15+ day purity occurring between bleedings. Use of contraception – is the most common cause of irregular bleeding for women whatever their age Keeping all the above in mind, now the answer to the question: Answer: Any ‘Aalim/Mufti will tell you that previous habits are necessary when blood exceeds the maximum or when it is continuous – by continuous I mean there is no occurrence of a complete purity of 15+ days and this situation can last for months. Experience shows that most women simply stop praying when they experience any type of bleeding or spotting no matter how long it carries on. They only consult Apas when they are made aware by someone with more knowledge. The Mudhillah is a woman who has forgotten her habits (not recorded them). For the Mudhillah the situation can get extremely serious when she suddenly experiences problematic cycles (Hardly any women remember their exact days of previous bleedings and purity as they generally fluctuate) because it is impossible to determine the bleedings without previous habits. In some extreme cases, some women may have to perform ghusl (obligatory ritual bath for full body purification) BEFORE EVERY PRAYER and thereafter repeat it in the next prayer time. However, at these times (in some cases) they may be allowed to take dispensations from other Madahaahib which is an extreme mercy of our Most Gracious Lord! And this is why there are these “billion courses and gazillion articles” so as to educate and empower women in their Deen. And this is the reason why great Fuqahaa of the past have written hundreds of treaties on the subject and as ʿAllaamah Ibn ‘Aabideen Al-Shaami (Rahimahullah) says in ““Manhalil Waarideen min Bihaaril Faydh ‘alaa “Dhukrul Muta-aahileen fee Masaailil Haydh” (The kitab taught by Mufti Abdur Rahmaan Mangera sahib) [the fuqaha have agreed on the mandatory nature of the obligation of knowing the necessary states of a person] This is to have knowledge of that ruling, which a person is in need of, at the time he is in need of it. By learning these rules in these “billion courses and gazillion articles” and following them, women are in fact worshipping their Lord. Isn’t our Deen the most beautiful?! Apologies as I could not answer in just a few sentences and also for saying you were being “Rather selfish” but this is exactly how it appears from your own words however it my not be so.

Aameen to lovely Du'a and its so good to see this topic continued, Jazaakillah Can you please double check the spelling in thsi word ? - ثَوَابَلهُ

Website: http://www.spirituallight.co.za/

There are various learning resources available online. Please refer to this section and see if they are offering Arabic course inshaAllah. http://www.islamicteachings.org/forum/category/169-online-learning-resources/

Rectified motives and reformed children The Honourable Hadith expert of our times, Al-Muhaddith, Shaykh Muhammad ‘Awwamah (may Allah protect him) often states that the residents of Madinah Munawwarah regularly make the following du’a: اللّٰهُمَّ أَصْلِحِ النِّيَّةَ والذُّرِّيَّةَ Allahumma aslihin niyyah wadh dhurriyyah Translation O Allah, rectify my intentions and reform my progeny. This brief yet profound du’a is much needed in the world today. Ponder: One who is bereft of the above two bounties will suffer in both Worlds! Intentions and the Selfie Age Unfortunately we live in an era where almost nothing is done without an ulterior motive. It’s an era wherein everything is ’selfied’, be it with a picture or even in text. Without the correct motive, no deed is accepted by Allah Ta’ala, even if that deed be as noble as it gets. We should still be focused on our intentions, instead of broadcasting our achievements! A Rare Breed The need for ‘reformed’ offspring is understood by one and all. Especially in an age where such a blessing is of a rare kind. Fortunate are those who have already achieved this. While many of us still only yearn for that blessing. Let’s include this du’a in our daily supplications, in addition to the physical effort that is needed to achieve the above. Keeping the company of the pious is very effective in achieving these two bounties. Insha Allah we will see great results. May Allah Ta’ala‬‎ accept all our efforts and du’as. Amin al-miftah

Aoudhubillahi minahs shaitan nirrajeem Bismillahirrahmanirraheem Two Characteristics of Nafs or Ego Why do the man like prohibited acts? It can be observed that the man normally develops yearning towards the forbidden acts. There is an online game because of which many youth are committing suicide. Effective measures are being taken to stop this game but people watch with more vigor. The zeal towards the forbidden acts is in proportion to the strength to prevent these acts. Adam (AS) was prohibited from eating the fruit of a certain tree. There were many trees that he (AS) could eat from but he chose to eat from the forbidden tree. When a man is prevented from an act, he becomes greedier of that act. Careful observation show two reasons behind this human behavior: 1) The nafs or ego does not tolerate imprisonment. The nafs is already imprisoned by the physical body and when it is further constrained spiritually, it becomes furious. Voluntarily a man will stay in a house for a month but the moment he was ordered to not come out of the house, he would find it difficult to oblige even for a day as his nafs would become enraged feeling imprisoned and will pressurize him to move out of the house. 2) It is not the tendency of the nafs to obey others and it finds submission and obedience very difficult. Physically it can do the most strenuous acts but mentally it finds it very difficult to submit to any simple command. This is why the biggest religion in this world is worshiping nafs whereby people obey the nafs. In fact the people of this world can be broadly divided into two groups: One group who live by the command of the Lord and the other group who live by the command of their nafs. It is because of these two characteristics of the nafs, the man finds pleasure in forbidden acts but not in permitted acts. Growing beard is very easy and it does not utilize man’s time, energy or money and it does not even hurt his skin but he finds it difficult to grow whereas he will take much effort and spend time, money and go through the pain to cut off the beard which is forbidden. Shariah has freed man from following unnecessary customs in getting married making it easy for him but he finds it difficult to oblige. On the other hand, the man will spend time, energy and waste his hard earned money which he laboriously saved for years in following the customs to please the people suiting the desires of his nafs. Do people really get pleased? Nay! He only earns up jealous people who will harm him. He finds it easy to do the most strenuous acts which will make one wonder because it pleases nafs but the simple easy acts become difficult for him as it goes against his nafs. This is the tendency of the nafs. Go Against the Nafs and Enjoy the Jannah Right in this World Irrespective of the difficulty endured by the nafs, the struggle we put to go against the nafs to please Allah SWT is what will make us attain Jannah. When we struggle against our nafs, Allah SWT will ease our path. If we go after the desires of nafs, there is hell behind its veil and if we abide by Allah’s SWT commands, definitely it is difficult for the nafs but there is Jannah behind its veil. I am not just talking about the Jannah awaiting in the akhirah but we will be able to taste the Jannah right in this world after a period of time if we go against our nafs. When we apply medicine to the wound, initially there will be stinging pain but later we will enjoy the health. Similarly, tolerate the displeasure of nafs in the beginning and later you will enjoy the Jannah of this world. If you do not apply medicine for the wound fearing the momentary pain, the wound will start rotting from inside leading to intolerable pain. Know that if you tolerate the difficulty and displeasures of nafs for Allah SWT, it will bring in the taste of Jannah like how the medicine brings health. Sins will make the Life Hell If you want to see the life of hell, look at the lives of sinners. Depending on the depth of the sin committed, deep is the hell life of the sinner. There are countries which are called paradise of this world but their inhabitants are committing suicide. Why do they commit suicide? Their anxiety, worries and difficulties are so severe like those of inmates of hell who will cry, “Alas! We wish we are dead and become dust and extinct”. Just like these inmates of hell, the sinners of this world become exasperated desiring for death and commit suicide. Can you imagine the level of desolateness, anxiety, insecurity and worries they are experiencing in their lives? In spite of having beautiful weather, house and comforts, why do they commit suicide? Depending on the severity of sins in one’s life, he will feel the heat of the hell in his life. The heat will be less when sin is small and will be more if the sin is big but for certain sins make the life that of the hell. This is as clear as a day brought out by the sun. One cannot be deceived by huge houses, factories or cars as for sure the sins committed by a person would make his life hell. Forbear the Stinging Pain of the Nafs The Quran commands one to save himself, his women and children from the fire. This command was descended on the most intellectual people that ever came on the earth, i.e. the companions of the Prophet SAW. They were commanded to save themselves from the fire of the sins. This fire is not good for your women or children and you cannot overlook their sins. Children are unaware and ignorant of the consequences of sins meted out by their environment but they are heading towards the fire. Believing in Allah SWT and following His SWT commands will definitely be difficult for the nafs but there is health behind this stinging pain and the taste of worldly Jannah behind this difficulty. Those people who are blessed with tahajjud salah or solitude worship in the late nights and in the mornings find them more pleasurable than the tastiest food. The coolness, the tranquility and the pleasure that one feels from these ibaadat (worship) are incomparable. When Hazrat ibn Taymiyyah (RA) was imprisoned and taken towards the prison, he exclaimed, “How wonderful it would be to spend my time in prison in solitude! Now I will enjoy my time of Jannah here.” When the prison guard wondered at his words, he said, “My Jannah is in my heart and it is with me wherever I go.” Who can snatch away Jannah from the hearts granted by Allah SWT? When Allah SWT bestows one deen and purity outwardly and inwardly, he has attained the Jannah of this world. Allah SWT says that such people will have tranquility in their hearts and tranquility is experienced in Jannah too. In the Jannah of this world, the man remains peaceful all the time and in every single state. This is pleasure. So have patience over the difficulty of the nafs when obeying Allah SWT for this pain is only temporary like applying medicine on the wound which will be followed by the enjoyment of eemaan (faith). The heart might desire to backbite and see forbidden things but stop the tongue from maligning others honor through backbiting and stop the eyes from seeing forbidden things. Definitely the nafs would find it tormenting but soon you will feel the coolness. How to control the Nafs? Deal with the nafs just like how a smart patient would deal with the medicine. He aims for good health and eats the bitter medicine and if it is too bitter, he still convinces himself to consume it by adding little sweetness to it or eats something sweet immediately after the medicine so his body accepts it. Do not obey the nafs but deal with it like a smart patient. It also happens that the nafs itself would not like eating certain delicious food because it knows well that it will prevent him from enjoying all other delicious foods. So teach the nafs about the severe loss it would incur if it commits a sin and losing the blessings it is enjoying. This is how a smart believer will hold his nafs. He will fully have the control of the bridle and will not lose the rope from his hand. Sometimes he loosens the rope but will have control over it. As long as the nafs is on the straight path, he will be lenient with it and when it tries to deviate from the path, he tries to bring back with a soft approach and if it doesn’t respond well, he will bring back sternly. He will deal with the nafs like how he would deal with an ignorant wife. When she shows her weakness intellectually, he entertains her by being very considerate. When a wife becomes disobedient, the husband first advices her gently and if the advice fails, he keeps her away from him on the bed and if she still persists in her behavior, he becomes little stern on her. There is no whip greater than firm determination to control the nafs. Be determined that you will not disobey Allah SWT and there is no better whip than determination for the nafs. Let Allah SWT grant His divine help to lead a life pleasing to Him SWT. Ameen -Sheikh Maulana Abdus Sattar (DB): Morning Tarbiati Majlis-29th September 2017.

As you shed Those warm tears, Crying for the past Sinful years, You just can’t utter A comprehensible sentence Yet; truthful is your repentance. Strange Is that vibration You feel As you fall On bended knees, Before He who spread darkness Into the depth of the seas. Sublime Is the sensation You get After a prostration You make In true contrition For the sake Of forgiveness, From He Who Inspired the bees. Subhaaan Al Ghafour! Rochdi Bouille March 15, 2012

DU’AA FOR GOOD EXPECTATIONS FROM AND SINCERE RELIANCE ON ALLAH TA’AALA اَللّٰهُمَّ لَكَ الْحَمْدُ شُكْرًا وَّلَكَ الْمَنُّ فَضْلًاـ اَللّٰهُمَّ إِنِّيْ أَسْأَلُكَ اتَّوْفِيْقَ لِمَحَابِّكَ مِنَ الْأَعْهَالِ، وَصِدْقَ التَّوَكُّلِ عَلَيْكَ، وَ حُسْنَ الظَّنِّ بِكَ ـ Allaahumma lakal-hamdu shukran wa lakal-mannu fadla(n). Allaahumma innii as’alukat-tawfiiqa limahaabbika minal-‘a’maal(i), wa sidqat-tawakkuli ‘alayk(a), wa husnaz-zanni bik. (Composite: Ka’b ibn ‘Ujrah and Abu Hurayrah. Kanz al-‘Ummal #3653, 3654) O Allah, to You is due all praise with thanks; it is only Your domain to do favors with grace. O Allah, I beseech You to enable me to perform the deeds loved by You, develop sincere reliance on You, and hold good expectations from You. ~~~Ameen~~~ It is important to hold good expectations from Allah Ta’aala, for Allah Ta’aala deals with a person according to his expectations. When a servant of Allah sincerely puts his trust and hopes in Him, Allah Ta’aala does not disappoint him. (Source: Khalid Baig’s transliteration, translation and commentary of du’aa #122 from the Accepted Whispers: Munajat-e-Maqbul)

As-Salaam alaikum, As we know it in Islam, Riya' (hypocrisy) is one of the secret sins of the heart, and often the perpetrator of riya' is self-deluded and hardly realizes his hypocrisy. Hypocrisy means that the state of the heart, in its intention and desires, does not correspond to the virtue of the outward act; it is the desire for something beside Allah Ta'ala, in serving Him, and the desire to gain something from men by that service to Allah; it is to do an action, outwardly for the glory of Allah, but with the intention of having glory of men. The Noble Prophet, Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam, said:-- "The thing most to be feared for my community is hypocrisy and secret desire." If man is not heedful of the direction of his secret desires, they will corrupt his service of Allah. In its most open form, hypocrisy is falsehood and in its most hidden form, it is guile. It is hidden from him who is neglectful and is manifest to him who searches for it with understanding knowledge; and he who knows the gravity of his need of it cleaves to sincerity, out of fear of hypocrisy.

Manara Counseling Aisha Chaudhry Registered Mental Health Counselor Intern, MA, RMHCI As a Muslim therapist, Muslim women usually contact me for identity and self-esteem struggles, depression, anxiety, and anger issues due to overwhelm, postpartum balance, or conflict. Some women are facing infidelity or polygamy (being second wives) that brings changes to life. While others struggle with OCD and trauma. Relief can come from even difficult experiences. Parenting can be easier and a little more pleasurable. Whatever your struggle is, I will provide open space free of judgement. All you need to bring with you is courage, consistency, and persistence. Along with carefully listening to your story, I will help you identify limiting core beliefs, attachment style, and behavioral response patterns. I have successfully treated individuals with trauma, enmeshed family systems, OCD, depression, anxiety, and personality disorders.

Bridal and Baby Showers by Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (rahmatullah alayh) There are many customs and trends which have their affiliation with the non-Muslim culture and lifestyle. Many Muslims, due to being afflicted with what appears to be a truly insecure and inferior complex, look towards and choose the customs and trends of the non-Muslims over that of the beautiful Sunnah. It seems as if the need is to secure a kind of acceptance in a non-Muslim society and just blend in with them – so that we are not recognized as Muslims. Bridal Showers and Baby Showers have become synonymous with the Muslim lifestyle as it is with the rest of the non-Muslim lifestyle. Many may ask: What’s wrong with giving gifts, congratulating the bride-to-be or the new mother, or having a get together with friends? There is nothing wrong with giving the bride or the new mother, a gift, or congratulating the person. To give a gift and congratulate are from the teachings of Islam – and would draw rewards … but there are conditions to be met in even these noble deeds. What is extremely wrong and objectionable is the background to these good deeds. They are not within the parameters of Shari’ah. The picture of a typical bridal shower and baby shower is not typical with the Sunnah. It is typical of the non-Muslim way of life. By following suit, we fall into the sin of “Tashabbu bil Kuffaar” (emulating the disbelievers). It is aligning oneself with those who have rejected Allah Ta’ala, who live their lives in immorality and disobedience. Nikah is a great Ibaadah. Pregnancy and the birth of a child also have their requisites in Islam. However, the west has commercialized all of these noble occasions, and made them into money-making events. The sacredness of these occasions is forgotten. …Today, Nikahs have taken on a distinct mould of a Hollywood or Bollywood style wedding – where the bride is dressed to look like a Christian bride or a Bollywood actress – with no sign of Islam on her; and the groom is dressed in a suit and tie, looking like a typical Christian groom. Adding insult to injury is the extravagance and open sin at the time of the wedding and Walimah. One’s mind moves in the direction of the millions and millions who are suffering famine and starvation, who have no home, no water, no food, no clothing – but the Muslim ignores all that suffering just for some fleeting attention and praise. All those hundreds of thousands of Rands wasted on draping a hall, on dressing the chairs, on wine glasses, on musicians, photography, on wedding cards that are thrown away, etc. is money, which could have been the means of alleviating the plight of so many suffering people. One brother handed me an elaborate invitation card for his daughter’s wedding. I enquired as to the cost of the wedding card, and was told that each card cost R50. Advising him, I told him that almost all people throw away wedding cards. People generally dispose of them. So he should regard that as people throwing away hundreds of his R50 notes. Would he throw R50 notes into a bin? No. However, the throwing away of those cards is equal to throwing away R50 notes. That same money could have been used in making the Aakhirah. Even those who are known to be religious will waste thousands on halls, on décor, etc. sacrificing the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala and Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam). Those who were meant to set the noble example of the Sunnah, who we expect are living the Sunnah – knowingly choose to forsake the Sunnah. Simplicity, which is part of Imaan, is a rare sight in these times. Hazrat ‘Ayesha (Radhiyallahu ‘anha) related that Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alaihi wasallam) said: ‘Verily, the most blessed Nikah is that which involves the least difficulty (expenditure).’ We have a perfect Sunnah – a perfect way of life in the life of our Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam) and in the lives of his companions, men and women. We have what is superior to all other cultures yet we consider everything else. It shows great weakness if we give preference to the culture of the Christians, Jews and Idolators over the noble Sunnah of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam). We are exchanging diamonds for stones… and what an unprofitable exchange this is! What a great loss! Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam) said: “Whoever emulates a nation is from amongst them.” In another Hadith, it is stated: “A person is with whom he loves.” Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam) also said that we will be raised on the Day of Judgment with those whom we imitate in this worldly life. (May Allah Ta’ala save us from such disgrace and humiliation.) Emulating the non-Muslim culture is one downfall but there are many more that are found in the Bridal and Baby Showers. The non-Muslims have coined a novel concept of begging – especially amongst the upper-class. It seems as if some, from amongst the wealthy, have developed an art to begging. They even have a name for it. In the name of Bridal Showers, Baby Showers, Registries, people gracefully and politely extend their hands, and they ask and take from others. The bride-to-be chooses her gifts from exclusive stores that offer a “registry” or she unashamedly hands out a list of those items she wants gifted to her. In the process, she places pressure and financial difficulty and sometimes a great burden on others - to purchase those gifts that she has chosen. At the get-together, these gifts and other gifts are presented to the bride-to-be, who opens them and shows them to all present – and each person can assess the kind of money that was spent on the gift given. Let us now consider the various wrongs in this act: A person is forced to purchase gifts that the bride has chosen – which may be beyond her budget in spending. A person who gives something simple or inexpensive will feel ashamed and embarrassed, considering the manner in which gifts are being received and shown to others. The Hadith encourages giving gifts because giving gifts creates Muhabbah (love). If Muhabbah is not created then this proves that either the giver or receiver in insincere. Sometimes, people give with intentions other than expressing their Muhabbah. However, there are many who request or are desirous of receiving and there is a kind of greed from the receiving side. This request or expectation (Ishraaf) reveals insincerity from the one who is receiving. A gift must be given happily and willingly – and should be received graciously and thankfully. This is the Sunnah. However, when we ask of people, as in the case of registries, etc. – people will give, but they give unhappily and unwillingly. And if some gift is given, which is not to our liking, then we receive it without any appreciation and thanks. This is our lamentable condition. Another aspect that has also been brought to attention is the immorality and shamelessness at such gatherings – with indecent talk, shameless dressing by Muslim women, inappropriate games, music, dancing and such filthy entertainment, that we would not want to bring on to our tongues. It is not permissible for a person to attend such gatherings. The Shari'ah instructs us: ‘IT IS NOT PERMISSIBLE TO BE PRESENT IN A GATHERING WHERE ALLAH TA’ALA IS BEING DISOBEYED.’ Moreover, a person's presence is aiding in promoting and glorifying what is not permissible. We are told not to assist each other in sin; rather to assist in what is righteous: "Help each other in righteousness and piety, and do not help each other in sin and aggression." [Surah Al-Maa'idah 5 : 2] A bride-to-be is known for her modesty and shyness – but all of this is lost in adopting the culture of the non-Muslims. Their dressing and their fashion nurtures immodesty. Added to this, these sins are publicized and photographs are taken and uploaded on social media – for all and sundry to view the level of our degeneration. The heart bleeds at this miscarriage of the Sunnah. …Nay, this abortion of the Sunnah. How will we meet our Beloved Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) on the Day of Judgment? How will we show our faces to the one whose entire life was sacrificed so that today we be the reciters of the Kalimah? May Allah Ta’ala have mercy upon us since we stand to lose by adopting this culture. If we continue in this line and direction, we will lose the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala and we will lose the great rewards for enlivening and practising the Sunnah. We also stand to lose the companionship of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayh wasallam) at the fountain of Kauthar on the Day of Judgment and even stand to lose the success of our marriages due to having sacrificed the beautiful, noble Sunnah by means of our emulation of the Hollywood and Bollywood culture. If our allegiance is to Allah Ta’ala and His Rasul (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam), then there should be no delay in repentance and mending our ways and coming back to what is pure and beautiful – Islam and the Sunnah. In this, is the success of both worlds. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the understanding, the concern and the Taufeeq of Aml. http://yunuspatel.co.za/articles-bridal-and-baby-showers.php

One should recite the following dua when overcome by fear أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّةِ، مِنْ غَضَبِهِ وَشَرِّ عِبَادِهِ، وَمِنْ هَمَزَاتِ الشَّيَاطِينِ وَأَنْ يَحْضُرُون I seek protection through the complete words of Allah Ta’ala from His anger, the evil of His servants, the whispers of the Shayateen and of their presence. عن عمرو بن شعيب، عن أبيه، عن جده، أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم كان يعلمهم من الفزع كلمات: أعوذ بكلمات الله التامة، من غضبه وشر عباده، ومن همزات الشياطين وأن يحضرون (سنن أبي داود، الرقم: 3893) Hazrat Abdullah bin Amr (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) would teach the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) to recite the following dua when experiencing fear: أَعُوذُ بِكَلِمَاتِ اللَّهِ التَّامَّةِ، مِنْ غَضَبِهِ وَشَرِّ عِبَادِهِ، وَمِنْ هَمَزَاتِ الشَّيَاطِينِ وَأَنْ يَحْضُرُون ihyaauddeen..co.za

No one is banned from the forum without legitimate reason Brother CH however this topic will not be open for discussion with the approach of the final blessed days of Ramadhan. If need be, it will be opened after Ramadhaan for amicable discussions and questions for more clarity. I do not intend however to get into unnecessary discussions on matters beyond my knowledge since I have tried to explain to the best of my ability with what I learnt from the best teachers on this subject and years of experience with women’s menstruation problems and consulting different Mufti sahibs in the UK. If you have queries regrading why Ulama have made it a requirement for women to record cycles when the Sahaabiyaat RA did not do so then perhaps you can start a discussion with Mufti AR Mangera sahib or other respected Ulama. This is something I am not qualified to comment on. Jazaakallaahu khayran for the topic as I feel it can become a means for both brothers to be aware of and teach their womenfolk and for sisters to record their cycles.

Jazaakillaahu khayraa I always thought these were all separate du'as

On the 25th of November Major General (Hafiz) Muhammad Abdul Aziz was promoted to Lieutenant General and given the strategic command of defense of Lahore. He is the first Madarsah graduate promoted to this level, leads Taraweeh Salah ever year to this day and is a Deobandi. https://www.24newshd.tv/25-Nov-2020/lt-gen-aziz-new-commander-lahore-corps-karachi-corps-goes-to-lt-gen-nadeem Hard nose, professional Solider, potentially marked as the next Army Chief of Pakistan. 2 of the 6 Generals promoted by Imran Khan Government yesterday have Sunnah beards His bright future and seniority can be seen in the order of promotions and the Tweet

As-Salaam alaikum, Abu Fayd Thawban Ibn Ibrahim Dhu'l Nun al-Misri, may Allah be Merciful to him, was asked about love. He responded:-- "It is to love that which Allah loves, to hate that which Allah hates, to perform all good, to reject anything that busies you from Allah, and not to fear any blame for the sake of Allah, while being gentle with believers, stern with disbelievers, and to follow the Messenger of Allah in matters of religion." ( Abu Nu'aym in Hilyatul-Awliya, 9/394)

"Reflect over the favours of Allah Ta`ala, both material and spiritual. The more you will reflect the more you will discover Allah's love." And Allah Ta`ala knows best (Mufti) E Salejee Source

Longing for our True Abode Introduction بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم نحمده ونصلي ونسلّم على رسوله الكريم In the early 1900s, a cholera pandemic broke out in India and spread to many countries across the globe. The pandemic began in 1899 and only abated in the year 1929. Historical records place the number of fatalities at 800 000 in India alone with more than half a million deaths reported in the years 1918 and 1919. The bewilderment, fear and panic that gripped the masses at the time cannot be described in words. We may well imagine the state of mind at the time when medical facilities were rudimentary, living conditions were abject, every home was visited either by sickness, death or despair and hundreds of Janaaza Salaah were performed after every Salaah. During this period, Allamah Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA) began a series of discourses aimed at bringing calm to the minds of the terrified local populace. These discourses centred around the life of the hereafter and the joys and delights it holds for the believer which are only attainable upon death. The focus was on rekindling the desire and longing for our Final Destination and True Abode. This life of the world is but a pastime and a game. Lo! the home of the Hereafter - that is Life, if they but knew. (Quran 29:64) The effect of these discourses was profound. The dark clouds of morbidity and gloom dissipated, and sparkling rays of serenity and tranquillity fell on the faces of his captive audience. Such was the impact of these discourses that many were those who began to long for death to meet their Creator and take delight in the rich reward promised to the believers in the hereafter. Hassaan bin Aswad (RA) stated, “Death is the bridge that unites the lover with his beloved.” (Irshadus Saari) Shortly thereafter, Allamah Thanwi (RA) decided to pen the subject matter of his discourses for the benefit of the greater public. He titled this work, “Shawqe Watan” (Trans.: Longing for the Abode) as the true abode and home is without doubt the hereafter and it is therefore only fitting that its desire be in the heart of every believer. While the fatality risk of the present Covid-19 outbreak is significantly lower than the decimating effect of the plagues of the past, I felt it, nonetheless, important that the content of this book reach the Muslim Ummah who may be experiencing a similar type of mental anguish and crisis. In order to facilitate this, I have condensed the subject matter of the book and separated its contents in a collection of articles. In acknowledgment to the original source, I have used the title of the original work (albeit translated in English) as the name of this collection. I beg of Allah, the All-Mighty, to accept this humble endeavour solely for His Pleasure and use it to bring hope, comfort and solace to troubled and despondent hearts. Say: “Never will anything afflict us except what Allah has decreed for us, He is our protector.” And on Allah let the Believers put their trust. (Quran 9:51) Mufti Moosa Salie Jamiatul Ulama KZN 27 March 2020

Hazrat Moulana Muhammad Ilyaas (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned the following: The actual meaning of zikr is for a person to fulfil the command of Allah Ta‘ala that relates to him in every given situation. Allah Ta‘ala commands us in the Qur’aan Majeed saying: یٰۤاَیُّهَا الَّذِیْنَ اٰمَنُوْا لَا تُلْهِکُمْ اَمْوَالُکُمْ وَلَاۤ اَوْلَادُکُمْ عَنْ ذِکْرِ اللّٰه O you who believe! Do not let your wealth or children turn you away from the remembrance (command) of Allah Ta‘ala. (Surah Munaafiqoon v. 9) Hence, while one is at home interacting with his family and children, or while one is engaged in trade and commerce, if he ensures that he remains obedient to Allah Ta‘ala and does not break His commands while fulfilling these worldly needs, then even though he is engaged in these occupations, he will be regarded as a person engaged in the remembrance of Allah Ta‘ala. (Malfoozaat Hazrat Moulana Muhammad Ilyaas (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) pg. 57) Ihyauddeen.co.za

Sure, Okay

As-Salaam alaikum, It is my pleasure to share with you the following pearls and/or reminders, to guide us as we go through everyday life on the planet earth.... before death comes:-- (1) "The Zikr [remembrance] of Allah moistens the heart and cultivates tenderness in it. When the heart is bereft of Zikrullah, the heat of the nafs overtakes it; the fire of lust reaches it and it becomes barren and hard." - Sheikh Abu Abdullah at-Tirmidhi Hakeem. (2) "Body is purified by water. Ego by tears. Intellect is purified by knowledge, and soul is purified with love."- Sayyadi Ali Ibn Abi Talib (R.A) (3) "The truth of faith (Imaan) does not reach a man who does not possess 4 qualities:-- a) Performance of compulsory duties along with Sunnat b) Carefulness in eating [eat only Halal and avoid Haram] c) Giving up the prohibited things openly and secretly. d) Observing those rules with patience until death."- Sayyadi Sahl Ibn Abdullah Tustari (4) "Fear is like a candle whose flame helps a person distinguish good from evil, and fear of Allah allows a person to turn away from evil. Those who fear mere creatures flee from them; but those who fear Allah flee to Him."- Rabiya Basri.

Quick reminder: Chatting with women on the internet can not be justified even under the excuse of "giving dawah". Using ":p", ":)" or any other expressions, chatting, joking around with them is so NOT allowed. Honestly, brothers and sisters, where is our sense of modesty? This behaviour can kill our modesty, make our heart dead and make us look down upon our spouse and lose interest in them. If you want happiness, follow Islam 100%, not just parts of it.

6 Easy Ways to Stay Healthy World Health Day (7 April 2019) Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah Radhiyallahu Anhu narrated that Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, “Indeed [among] the first things a person will be asked about on the Day of Qiyamah is that it will be said to him, ‘Did We not make your body healthy and give you cool water to drink?” (Tirmidhi) 1. Feed your soul We are commanded by Allah the Almighty, to pray five times a day. However, apart from the blessings and benefit we gain from Salaah in the Hereafter, does it have health benefits as well? According to an article, during Salaah when you go into sujood, extra blood flows to your brain. Extra blood supply to the skin on your face helps prevent diseases, drains the sinuses and makes it less likely for you to get bronchitis. When a person breathes normally, only two thirds of the capacity of the lung is exhaled out and the remaining one third remains in the lung as a residual air. During sujood, the abdominal visra press against the diaphragm. The latter presses against the lower part of the lungs and the lower lobes. When you breathe during sujood, the remaining one third residual air is aired out, helping your lungs remain in a healthy state. As Muslims, we do not pray with the intention of gaining these health benefits, but rather, to worship the Almighty Allah. These benefits are mere side dishes, while worshiping and getting closer to Allah is our main dish. 2. Feed your body “Eat of the good things which We have provided for you.” (2:173) It is established in the medical practice that we must have a balanced diet with all the right amounts of carbs, proteins, vitamins and minerals etc. in order to help our systems function to their optimal abilities. We also know that eating excessively can cause numerous diseases such as diabetes, vascular diseases, stroke, heart attack etc., and that moderation is the key. “Eat and drink, but avoid excess”. (20: 81) 3. Feed your mind Challenge your brain. Mental activity not only improves your intelligence, but your brain is the centre of everything in your body. If it is healthy, then you are less at risk to attract diseases. The first word revealed in the Quran was “Iqra” which means “read”. Allah is sending us a direct message. We are encouraged to read, read, read! We should read every and anything we can get our hands on, as long as its halal. We should be learning from the cradle to the grave. While what we deem traditionally as Islamic knowledge is at the forefront of what we should know, it is useful for us to realise that Allah is the creator of all things. So, when we are at school and are learning about plateaus and volcanoes in geography, or about protons, neutrons and electrons in chemistry, we are learning about the world in which Allah created us and we should not disregard the importance of this knowledge rather as Muslims we become more aware of the majesty of Allah’s power and grandeur. 4. Feed your heart Research has shown that when you smile, your body releases endorphins which automatically make you happier, and in a brighter mood. Smiles are like high-fives to your immune system; your whole body thanks you just for smiling. The endorphins released during a smile also act as natural pain killers, so when you’re in physical, emotional or mental anguish, try smiling and see the difference it makes! Smiling is Sunnah as well! Our beloved Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, “Your smiling in the face of your brother is considered charity.” (Tirmidhi) 5. Feed your relationships The Prophet Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, “The best of you is the best to his family and I am the best amongst you to my family”. (Tirmidhi) In Islam, family matters. They are the people who will be there for you no matter what happens. They love you unconditionally and we all have a duty to keep our family relations in good order. We are taught to treat our parents with respect and to treat our children with kindness while leading them on the right path of Allah. Having good relationships with our family reduces stress and confusion which at times ages us and makes us unhealthy. We need to be positive and mend all broken relationships in order to have a truly successful and healthy life. 6. Feed your emotions Contrary to popular belief, emotions are not a sign of weakness. It is actually a strength, in that it allows us to handle every and any type of situation thrown at us. We are not mere robots and we need to embrace that. Knowing ourselves allows us to embrace ourselves for who we are and to accept the way we feel. Emotions are given their due place of importance in all Islamic teachings as fundamental elements of the human soul. Islam teaches moderation in everything, aiming to create equilibrium so that one is always at peace with one’s self, the universe, and most importantly, Allah. In Islam, the concept of managing emotions is a pretty easy and simple one. The whole concept sums up in two easy points: looking at the people below us in worldly matters and looking at the people above us in religious matters. This allows us to be focused and content with what we have, and to know where we are headed, rather than shy away from what we experience or feel inadequate about what we do possess. Staying healthy can be really easy. All we need to do is stay positive and implement these few steps and we will, Inshallah, be on our way to a more healthy lifestyle! By Sister Nasmira Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Part Twenty Two The Hayaa of Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) Hazrat Anas (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) said, “The most merciful of my ummah towards my ummah is Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), and the most staunch in (upholding) the command of Allah Ta‘ala is Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), and the most true in hayaa is Hazrat ‘Uthmaan bin ‘Affaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), and the most knowledgeable regarding halaal and haraam is Hazrat Mu‘aaz bin Jabal (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), and the most knowledgeable regarding the masaa’il of inheritance is Hazrat Zaid bin Thaabit (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), and the most knowledgeable regarding the recitation of the Qur’aan Majeed is Hazrat Ubayy bin Ka‘b (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), and every Ummah has a trustee, and the trustee of this ummah is Hazrat Abu ‘Ubaidah bin Jarraah (radhiyallahu ‘anhu).” (Sunan Tirmizi #3790)

The Night Before Eid Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) has said; The night of Eidul Fitr, the night that is called Laylatul Jaa’izah (The night of prize giving), comes along. On the morning of Eid, Allah Ta’ala sends down the Malaaikah, to all the lands of the earth, where they stand at the entrance of roads, calling out with a voice that is heard by all except man and jinn: “O Ummah of Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), come out of your houses towards a Lord that is noble and gracious, who grants much and pardons the big sins.” When they go towards the places for their Eid Salaah, Allah Ta’ala says to the Malaaikah: “What is the reward of that worker who has completed his work?” The Malaaikah reply: “O Lord and master, it is only right that he should receive his reward in full.” Allah Ta’ala then says: “I call you to witness, O My Malaaikah, that for their having fasted during the month of Ramadhaan, and for their having stood before Me in prayer by night, I have granted to them as reward My pleasure and have granted them forgiveness.O My servants ask now of Me, for I swear by My honour and My greatness, that whatsoever you shall beg of Me this day in this gathering of yours for the needs of the Hereafter, I shall grant you, and whatsoever you shall ask for your worldly needs, I shall grant it. I swear by My honour that, as long as you shall obey My com­mands, I shall cover up your faults. By My Honour and My Greatness do I swear that I shall never disgrace you together with the sinful people and disbelievers. Go now from here, you are forgiven. You have pleased Me and I am pleased with you.” The Malaaikah on seeing this great reward given by Allah Ta’ala upon the ummah of Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) on the day of Eidul Fitr become greatly pleased and happy. (As reported in Targheeb.)

RAMADAAN: Endless Opportunity…Limited Time We all know time is a limited commodity. Every second that passes can never be retrieved, it is the drop lost into the sea of eternity. We have limited time to make the best of the endless opportunities that the month offers us. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, “Take advantage of five matters before five: your youth before you become old, your health, before you fall sick, your wealth before you become poor, your free time before you become preoccupied, and your life before your death.” (Ahmed) We may be in very different circumstances next Ramadaan. We may not have the health, the time or the life to take advantage of another Ramadaan. Now is the time, we have to act with a sense of urgency. Ask for Allah’s Forgiveness: Never let a day of Ramadaan pass that you have not asked for Allah’s forgiveness. Seeking forgiveness not only erases your sins, it also removes anxiety, opens the doors of sustenance, attracts the mercy of Allah and draws us closer to Allah. Read the Quran: If you want to speak to Allah engage in Salaah, if you want Allah to speak to you read the Quran. “Verily the one who recites the Qur’an beautifully, smoothly, and precisely, will be in the company of the noble and obedient angels. And as for the one who recites with difficulty, stammering or stumbling through its verses, he will have twice that reward.” (Bukhari) Spend time making Dua: If it is not in the nature of a mother to turn her child away empty handed no matter how disobedient a child may be, how is it possible that the One who is the Most Merciful and who has placed mercy in the hearts of all mothers turns away His slave, empty handed? How is it possible for the One Who becomes angry when His slaves do not supplicate to Him, not to be happy when they do. Dua is our intimate conversation with Allah; it is uplifting, liberating and empowering. Safeguard your sight: "The glance is a poisoned arrow of Shaytaan. Whoever lowers his gaze for (the pleasure of) Allah, Allah will bestow upon him a refreshing sweetness which he will find in his heart on the day that he meets Him.” (Tabraani) Be generous: The Prophet’s Sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam charity in Ramadaan is described as abundant as ‘the free blowing wind.” There is no better exercise for the heart than lifting people up! Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, “Guard yourselves against the fire (of hell) even if it be with half a date (given in charity); and if you cannot afford even that, then at least say a good word.” (Bukhari) Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Question Can we follow more than one scholar in islam? Answer Bismillahi Ta'ala, Walaikum Assalam Warahmatullah, There is a statement in arabic which says, "For every field has its people". While we understand that it is most safe to restrict oneself to one scholar and follow him, yet if one has access to multiple scholars then there is nothing wrong with seeking a scholar of expertise in that particular field. For example, if one has to go to a doctor, then one cannot simply stick to one General Practitioner. Instead, one will need to seek out the doctor who specializes in the field for which a medical advice is needed. Hence for a heart disease, it would not serve to seek out a neurologist. In other terms, if you are looking for guidance in food items and their halal and haram status then it would be beneficial to seek out scholars who do not only understand the fiqhi aspects of halal and haram food, but also has the ability review his judgement based on industrial practices in that field. Similarly, if you are looking for guidance in marital dispute, it will best help if you approach a scholar who specializes in mediation and dispute counseling. Do not confuse this with the issue of following only one madhab (school of methodology). There are four major schools of methodology; Hanafiyyah, Malikiyyah, Shafi'iyyah and Hanbaliyyah. It is best to restrict oneself in following one of these schools and not mix and match. To understand this restriction, revert to the same example given above about seeking out a doctor for medical guidance. While you choose specific specialists to guide you in your medical diagnosis, you stick to the same methodology of medicine. If you choose a mode of medical treatment such as allopathy (general secular medical treatments) for your ailment, then you do not mix it with homeopathy or acupuncture medicine. Similarly, if you have chosen to follow one of four schools in fiqh, then it is equally detrimental to mix and match for your soul as it would be to mix and match medical treatments for your body. So while within the hanafiya school, you may choose different scholars based on their expertise or base on your reliance on those scholars within the hanafiya school. Wallahu A'lam, Mufti Faisal al-Mahmudi Fatwa.ca

Is it wrong to cry over the deceased? Question Please clarify if someone cannot control his tears while remembering his beloved child who has passed away, is there anything wrong with this? I have read that when tears flow, it is a kind of mercy from Allah and it is not haram. Answer Crying over a deceased is certainly allowed. There were numerous instances wherein Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) himself cried over a deceased or someone who was in the throes of death. Among them are the following: 1) Sayyiduna Anas ibn Malik (radiyallahu ‘anhu) says, “We visited Abu Sayf, the blacksmith, with Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam). He was the father of the wet-nurse of Ibrahim [the son of Nabi -sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam-]. Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) held Ibrahim, kissed him and smelt him. Then later we visited him when Ibrahim was breathing his last. The eyes of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) began to flow with tears. Sayyiduna ‘Abdur Rahman ibn ‘Awf (radiyallahu ‘anhu) asked [out of astonishment], ‘Even you, O Rasulullah!’ [Why are you crying?] Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said, ‘O Ibn ‘Awf, it is mercy.’ Then more tears followed and he said, ‘The eye weeps and the heart grieves and we say nothing except what pleases our Rabb. O Ibrahim, we are grieved at your departure.” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 1303 and Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 2315 with variation in the wording) 2) Sayyiduna Usamah ibn Zayd (radiyallahu ‘anhu) reports, “The daughter [Zaynab -radiyallahu ‘anha] of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) sent a message to him saying, ‘One of my sons is in the throes of death, so come.’ He sent his greetings to her and said, ‘Indeed what Allah takes is his and what He gives is his. Everything has a fixed term with Him, so she should adopt patience and anticipate reward.’ She again sent for him taking an oath that he should certainly come. He got up with Sa’d ibn ‘Ubadah, Mu’adh ibn Jabal, Ubayy ibn Ka’b, Zayd ibn Thabit and some other men (radiyallahu ‘anhum).The child was brought to Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) and he was shuddering. (I think he said, “Like an old water skin.”). Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam)’s eyes began flowing with tears. Sa’d (radiyallahu ‘anhu) said, ‘O Rasulullah, what is this?’ He said, ‘This is mercy which Allah has put in the hearts of His slaves. Allah is merciful to His slaves who are merciful [to others].” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 1284 and Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 923) 3) Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Umar (radiyallahu ‘anhuma) reports, “Sa’d ibn ‘Ubadah fell ill. So Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam), came to visit him with ‘Abdur Rahman ibn ‘Awf, Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas and ‘Abdullah ibn Mas’ud (radiyallahu ‘anhum). When he arrived, he found him surrounded by his family and asked, ‘Has he passed away?’ They said, ‘No, O Rasulullah’. Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) then began to weep. When the people saw Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) weeping, they also wept. Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) then said, ‘Listen, Allah does not punish for the tears of the eyes nor for the sorrow of the heart, but he punishes or shows mercy on account of this,’ and he pointed to his tongue” (Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 924 and Sahih Bukhari, with slight addition in the wording, Hadith: 1304) The above narrations illustrate the permissibility of crying over a deceased as well as when remembering the deceased. However wailing and screaming has been prohibited, as explained in the following Hadiths: 1) Sayyiduna ‘Umar (radiyallahu ‘anhu) reports that Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “The deceased is punished in his grave for the wailing done over him.” (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 1292 and Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 927) 2) Sayyiduna ‘Umar (radiyallahu ‘anhu) said, Leave [the daughters of Khalid ibn Walid -radiyallahu ‘anhu] to cry over him, as long as they do not throw sand on their heads or shout. (Sub heading of Sahih Bukhari, before Hadith: 1291) And Allah Ta’ala Knows best. Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar hadithanswers

Ibn al-Qayyim (رحمه الله) said, “Go on the path of truth and do not feel lonely because there are few who take that path, and beware of the path of falsehood and do not be deceived by the vastness of the perishers.”

Social media identity is worthless. An identity in the gatherings of Angels & in the court of Allah is priceless. Faraz ‏@FarazAdm Jun 28