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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)

Wa'alaykumu salaam warahmatullah I just saw this thread! Sorry been quite inactive of the forums I was so happy to see the chart...though an image or PDF would be better But after bint Aisha's question maybe not a good idea to post it. I dont have time to go through all of it but: @Bint e Aisha First example: Reading the Qur'an (without direct touch) - impermissible in menses and post-natal Second example: Menstrual spotting within the purity period is Considered istiḥāḍah, not menstruation - any coloured spotting during purity will be istihadhah. So its correct but I think the word "menstrual spotting" can cause confusion Third example: After reaching menopause (usually 55 years), any bleeding is considered istiḥāḍah. No bashing inshaa-allaah : ) You are correct. After reaching 55 lunar years age if a woman sees blood which is black or red or another colour which she used to see before menopaye AND it reaches the menstrual minimum then yes, it will be menstruation

The origin of the word Bak Bak (بك بك) --------- In Urdu, whenever someone is babbling around (talking foolishly), we say in Urdu to him: "bak bak na karo" (i.e. do not talk foolishly and in vain). This is normally used as a slang but it is interesting to note that a similar expression is used in the classical Arabic language. The famous companion of the Prophet SAW, 'Abd Allah bin 'Umar RA once said to the famous governor Hajjaj bin Yusuf, who was known for his tyranny and transgression when he extended the Khutbah of Jumuah to the extent that the time for prayer was about to pass: إنما نجيء للصلاة فصلِّ الصلاة لوقتها، ثم بقبق بعد ذلك ما شئت من بقبقة. أخرجه ابن سعد في الطبقات (4/149). "We only come to pray, so perform the prayer at its appointed time, then baq baq after that whatever baq baq you want to do." ~Smile Originally posted by Mugheerah Luqman

7: Reciting Qur’an Once you have recited you opening duʿā’, you will now recite Sūrah al-Fātiḥah, followed on by a sūrah or a selection of āyāt from the Qur’ān. A summary of how to recite the Qur’an in your salah: 1. Always recall that you are standing in front of Allah (ʿazza wa jall) and that you are conversing with Him. 2. Recite slowly and beautifully. 3. Reflect on the words you are reciting. Fill your heart with love, hope and fear according to the words you are reciting. 4. When you come across an āyah about mercy, stop and ask Allah for His mercy. When you come across an āyah about punishment, stop and ask Allah’s protection. When you come across an āyah where you can make a duʿā’, stop and ask Allah. 5. Whilst reciting, try to visualise and interact with what you are saying. 6. Alternate between what you recite. Read the more detailed article Recite and Reflect on the Qur’an for how you should recite in ṣalāh.

Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam said: “The best of Muslims is he from whose hand and tongue, other Muslims are safe.” (Muslim) “The best of people are those with the most excellent character.” (Tabarâni) “The best prayers for women are those performed in the most secluded parts of their houses.” (Ibn Khuzaymah) “The best of you are those who feed others and return greetings.” (Abu Ya’lâ) “The best of that which you treat yourself with is cupping.” (Hâkim) “The best of days that you should perform cupping are the 17th, 19th and 21st of the month. I did not pass a single gathering of angels on the night of Isrâ’ except that they would say to me, ‘O Muhammad, perform cupping!’” (Ahmad) “The most beloved of deeds according to Allah are the continuous ones, even if they are little.” (Bukhari) “The most beloved words according to Allah the Most High are four: Subhânallah, Alhamdulillâh, Lâ ilâhaillallah and Allahu Akbar.” (Muslim) “The best of provision is that which suffices a person.” (Ahmad) “The most beloved word according to me is that which is most truthful.” (Bukhâri) “The best word of remembrance is: Lâ ilâha illallah and the best supplication is: Alhamdulillâh.” (Tirmidhî) “The best of charity is that which is given to the relative that harbours enmity against you.” (Ahmad) “The best prayer is that with the longest (Qiyaam) standing.” (Muslim) “The best of all worship is supplication (dua).” (Hâkim) Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam was asked: “Which of the believers are the most intelligent?” He replied, “Those who remember death the most and are best prepared for what comes after it. They are the intelligent ones.” (Tabraani) Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

I don't mean on this forum. On a different platform or it's own website which can be shared amongst various forums and social media platforms. It won't be easy, but doable if enough people are interested. It's just an idea.

Few people collectively carrying out one nafil Qurbaani in one sheep or goat Q: Can few people buy one sheep or goat and carry out a nafil qurbaani? A: There are two views among our Ulama regarding this mas'alah. According to Mufti Shaf'ee Saheb, Mufti Abdur Raheem Laajpuri and Moulana Yusuf Ludyaanwi (Rahmatullahi Alayhim), one nafil qurbaani can only be carried out on behalf of one person. Two or more people cannot collectively carry out nafil qurbaani in one animal. According to Moulana Ashraf Ali Thaanwi (Rahmatullahi Alayh) and Mufti Mahmood Gangohi (Rahmatullahi Alayh), one nafil qurbaani can be carried out on behalf of few people collectively. It should be borne in mind that this ruling pertains to the validity of the nafil qurbaani if carried out by more than one person. As far as the sawaab is concerned, all the Ulama agree that if one person carries out the nafil qurbaani, he can convey the sawaab to as many people as he wishes. And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best. وقال بعض أهل العلم: لا تجزي الشاة إلا عن نفس واحدة، وهو قول عبد الله بن المبارك، وغيره من أهل العلم (سنن الترمذي 1/277) (وإن) (مات أحد السبعة) المشتركين في البدنة (وقال الورثة اذبحوا عنه وعنكم) (صح) عن الكل استحسانا لقصد القربة من الكل، ولو ذبحوها بلا إذن الورثة لم يجزهم لأن بعضها لم يقع قربة (الدر المختار 6/326) امداد الفتاوى 3/573 فتاوى محموديه 26/310 امداد المفتين 2/957 فتاوى رحيميه 10/56 آپ کے مسائل اور ان كا حل 4/194 Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم Tazkiyah-tun Nafs and Bay’ah Tazkiyah-tun Nafs (self-rectification) is Fardh (incumbent) upon each and every individual. It is possible to achieve Tazkiyah through seeking Ilm (knowledge) and more importantly, acting upon the Ilm provided it was obtained from reliable sources and teachers. Spiritual development under the auspicious supervision of a capable Shaykh (spiritual guide) will enable an individual to reach levels of spirituality which are not easily attainable independently. The most fundamental tenet in this path is the constant or prolonged company and supervision of a Shaykh. This can be achieved with or without Bay’ah. Therefore, taking bay’ah will be a Mustahab act. However, given that Bay’ah can be proven from Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam and the Sahabah, taking Bay’ah will be a means of Barakah (blessings) and ease on this journey of Tazkiyah. Source : [Imdaadul Fatawa / Vol 5, Pg 246-247 and Imdaadul Ahkaam / Vol 1, Pg 48 of Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanvi Rahimahullah] Mufti Ebrahim Desai Darul Mahmood | darulmahmood.net

Abu Dardaa (r) teaches how to deal with sinners | Short Reminders Series | Mufti Ebrahim Desai Saheb

The Remedy for Pride Hazrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned: If any person sees some good quality in himself and finds that quality lacking in another person, due to which he begins to regard himself to be better than that person, then he should immediately think to himself, “It is possible that this person does not have this good quality in him which I have, but he has some other praiseworthy quality in him which is lacking in me, due to which he is better than me in the sight of Allah Ta‘ala.” Hazrat Thanwi (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) then mentioned, “If a person trains himself to think in this way, it will assist him to remove self-admiration and pride from his heart and it will save him from regarding himself to be better than others.” (Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 23/55)

Benefits of Smiling! The Messenger of Allah Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam said, “To smile in the company of your brother is charity.” (Bukhari) It seems that nothing has more power to elevate a mood than the impact of a genuine smile. The benefits of a smile extend not only to the recipient of the warm gesture but also to the smile’s originator. “A smile is a little curve that sets a lot of things straight.” 1. Smiling Makes Us Attractive – People are spending millions on cosmetic products and procedures to make them look better. If you want to look better, try adding a genuine smile. It’s cheaper and much more attractive. The muscles we use to smile lift the face, making a person appear younger. Don’t go for a face lift, just try smiling your way through the day — you’ll look younger and feel better. 2. Smiling Changes Our Mood - Next time you are feeling down, try putting on a smile. There’s a good chance you mood will change for the better. Smiling can trick the body into helping you change your mood. 3. Smiling Is Contagious - When someone is smiling they lighten up the room, change the moods of others, and make things happier. A smiling person brings happiness with them. 4. Smiling Relieves Stress - Stress can really show up in our faces. Smiling helps prevents us from looking tired, worn down, and overwhelmed. When you are stressed, take time to put on a smile. The stress should be reduced and you’ll be better able to take action. Smiling helps to promote release of a “feel good” group of hormones called endorphins. These are the same group of hormones responsible for the runners high you hear so much about. If you don’t have time to get to the gym for a hard run, try adding a smile to boost these natural, stress relieving hormones. 5. Smiling Boosts Your Immune System - Smiling helps the immune system to work better. When you smile, immune function improves possibly because you are more relaxed. Prevent the flu and colds by smiling. 6. Smiling Lowers Your Blood Pressure - When you smile, there is a measurable reduction in your blood pressure. Give it a try if you have a blood pressure monitor at home. Sit for a few minutes, take a reading. Then smile for a minute and take another reading while still smiling. Do you notice a difference? 7. Smiling is medication - Studies have shown that smiling releases endorphins, natural pain killers, and serotonin. Together these three make us feel good. Smiling is a natural drug and leads to a healthier immune system. Various studies conducted over the years have shown that smiling can boost the functioning of the immune system. This may help to reduce your risk of developing everything from the common cold to chronic diseases such as cancer. Could there be a less expensive medicine than this? 8. A smile inspires others - When you smile you also send a positive message that can potentially change someone else’s mood for the better. The person you graced with your smile may go on to pass the kindness to someone else. Who knows how far your original smile will travel? 9. Smiling promotes Success - Smiling people appear more confident, are more likely to be promoted, and more likely to be approached. Put on a smile at meetings and appointments and people will react to you differently.When you smile, you appear confident and capable. Given the choice between two equally qualified job candidates, the smiling candidate is going to be perceived as being more of a team player and easier to work with. Who do you think is more likely to get the job offer? 10. Smiling Helps You Stay Positive -Try this test: Smile. Now try to think of something negative without losing the smile. It’s hard. When we smile our body is sending the rest of us a message that “Life is Good!” Stay away from depression, stress and worry by smiling. Smile!!! It does not cost a cent and can make a person’s day! “It takes seventeen muscles to smile and forty-three to frown”. The greatest reason for smiling is because it is a sunnah [practice] of our Beloved Messenger of Allah Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam. The Messenger of Allah had a smiling face and advised us to entertain our guest with a smiling face and good conduct. Posted by E ISLAM Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Guidance and advice for the Blessed Month from Shaykh-ul-Hadīth, Hadrat Mawlānā Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullāh News of ‘Īd The following two advices will help to maintain the momentum of Ramadān and safeguard us from wasting the remaining precious moments of Ramadān, due to the excitement of the advent of ‘Īd. 1) On the 29th of Ramadān remain occupied in devotions to Allāh ta‘ālā, as the precious moments are slipping away quickly. Do not endeavour to find out before Maghrib whether the moon has been sighted or not. 2) If however you learn before Maghrib that the moon has been sighted, then do not inform others until after Maghrib so that they are not distracted and become negligent. Keep yourself engaged in ‘ibādah (worship), as for you it is still Ramadān until Maghrib. Presentation Night (Laylat-ul-Jā’izah) The whole of Ramadān was a spiritual tournament and the night of ‘Īd (i.e. the night before ‘Īd day) is when the winning team is awarded their prize. If you are given the ability to worship Allāh ta‘ālā during this auspicious night then it is an indication that you are in the winning team. In order to be eligible for a prize the least we should do is to refrain from every sin and engage in a little bit of extra ‘ibādah for a while during this night. © At-Tazkiyah

Ibn Masood (r.a) was asked, "How would you welcome the month of Ramadhaa?" He replied, "None of us (Sahaba) had the audacity to start the month of Ramadhaan whilst there was a grain of jealousy in his heart." (Lataaif al-Ma'arif)

Flowers for Women by Daughter of Khalid A. Qureshi Translation edited by Mufti A. H. Elias Special-Laws-For-Females.pdf

Part Nineteen Hazrat Sa‘eed bin Musayyib (rahimahullah) narrates: A certain person was once speaking ill of Hazrat ‘Ali (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), Hazrat Talhah (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) and Hazrat Zubair (radhiyallahu ‘anhu). Seeing that this person was speaking ill of the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum), Hazrat Sa’d (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) immediately tried to stop him saying, “Do not speak ill of my brothers!” However, the person refused to desist. Hazrat Sa’d (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) thus stood, performed two rakaats of salaah, and made du‘aa against this person who was speaking ill of the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum). Shortly thereafter, a camel arrived, pushing its way through the people. The camel seized this person and trapped him between its chest and the ground, crushing him to death. Hazrat Sa‘eed (rahimahullah) concludes saying, “I then saw the people walking behind Hazrat Sa’d (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) saying, ‘Congratulations, O Abu Ishaaq! Your du‘aa was accepted (in defense of the Sahaabah)!’” (Siyar min A’laam min Nubalaa 3/73) Source: Whatisislam.co.za

Assalaamu 'alaykum welcome to the forum. Firstly I found this Q/A on the Bermuda Triangle which I found interesting as someone is actually asking if it is mentioned in the Qur'an... There is a lot of info, even from the islamic perspective however we cannot say what is reliable and what is not...I found this article interesting: http://bigthink.com/paul-ratner/the-mystery-of-the-bermuda-triangle-may-finally-be-solved I remember something I heard from an Islamic talk which I'll share. Someone asked a scholar regarding the UFO's so he replied by saying, "Allah ta'ala is not going to question you about it so do not worry about the UFO's or the Bermuda Triangle or other mysterious stories and worry about what Allah ta'ala will question you about."

A praiseworthy Quality in Women Hazrat Thaanwi (Rahmatullahi Alaihi) once mentioned “Women who are pure-minded and simple in their ways (on account of them not being exposed to sin and observing strict purdah from strange men) are generally extremely chaste. Such women resemble the hoors(damsels) of Jannah in their purity and chastity. They do not come into contact with strange men and nor do they even cast glances at them. Hence they could be resembled to the hoors of Jannah, regarding whom Allah Ta’ala described in the Qur’an: فِيهِنَّ قَـٰصِرتُ ٱلطَّرْفِ In the palaces of Jannah reside such hoors (damsels) who lower their gazes from all strange men besides their husbands. Further, Allah Ta’ala expresses the excellence of those women who are unaware of the world and focus on the Hereafter by describing them as ٱلْمُؤْمِنَـٰتِ ٱلْمُحْصَنَـٰتِ ٱلْغَـٰفِلَـٰتِ (Chaste, believing women who remain unaware of the attractions of the world). From this verse of the Qur’an we understand that it is a praiseworthy quality in women, and part of their nature, that they remain aloof from the attractions of the world. Though this verse primarily refers to women remaining aloof from the attractions of sin, and this is also desired from men, however the fact that Allah Ta’ala expresses this quality as a praiseworthy quality of women, one understands that to a greater extent it should be found in women. Unfortunately those who are totally ignorant of Deen feel that the success and progress of women lies in abolishing the concept of purdah and exposing the women to the world. However this notion is totally incorrect. I sincerely feel within my heart that Allah Ta’ala will assist Deen and never cause such people to become successful in their effort. (Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 1/151) Ihyaauddeen.co.za

Wa'alaykumus salaam warahmatullaah Firstly I'd like to mention that from what I have read and heard in bayans, I cannot stress the importance of covering in front of non-mehram males in laws. It is said that there is less likely hood of fitnah with someone while out and about however with men and women living in the same house or socialising a lot there are so many opportunities of fitnah. In most communities the interaction between a woman and her brothers in law are very lighthearted and there are ample opportunities of being alone in a room as well... Secondly, it can be done Haya. Even in small houses and living together it can be done. It is more difficult where there is no support from the husband but the wife would then need to keep trying making her husband husband understnand without arguments and fights or where things get out of hand...along with abundant du'a for Allah ta'ala to ease the situation. Ok as for personal experience, I will mention a short summary of the experience of not just myself but many of my friends here so that inshaAllah it serves as a means of guidance and help to others. Yes it is difficult however as I mentioned it can be done inshaAllah. Many relatives get upset and even stop talking however it has been known that those very relatives come around after some time (I believe it is because Allah ta'ala, in Whose control are hearts, has turned their hearts). The initial difficulty is a test and all that is required is steadfastness and reliance on Allah ta'ala. As for : Better to call the father or a brother to get the food and if there is no one than the face and the rest of the body still has to be covered. Sometimes we may have to welcome a non mehram in law or pass them something...it can still be done from behind the veil and by not using soft tones or talking unnecessarily. Here in the UK I know many families who observe strict rules when families get together or when living together. Men and women sit separately, with men serving the men and women serving the women. Please note that most houses are quite small yet Alhamdulillah, purdah is strictly observed. I can vouch that it can be done because a very close family member lived with in laws in one house for quite a long time and there was no relaxing of the rules..Alhamdulillah. The biggest test is when there is no support from the husband. I know of situations where the wife has continued to cover despite the husband's disapproval and continued serving him and trying her best not to create a situation....in most cases the husband eventually accepts it and even supports it.

Sunnah posture of sitting while eating Q: What are the Sunnah postures for eating? A: The sunnah posture of sitting while eating on the floor is that one sits with both knees on the ground (in the tashahhud posture), or with the right knee raised. And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best. فالمستحب في صفة الجلوس للأكل أن يكون جاثيا على ركبتيه وظهور قدميه أو ينصب الرجل اليمنى ويجلس على اليسرى (عمدة القاري 21/44) أحسن الفتاوى (9/50) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

Question Is eating prawns halaal or makroo Answer In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu `alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. There is a difference of opinion pertaining to the permissibility of prawns. One group of Ulama hold the view that it is permissible while another group believe it is not permissible. The reason for the difference stems from the categorization of prawns. Those who hold the view of the permissibility of prawns believe that prawns are fish. Others believes that prawns are not fish. Amongst the Ulama who believe that prawns are fish are a)Hazrath Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi rahmatullāhi ῾alaihi b)Hazrath Mufti Abdur Raheem Lajpuri rahmatullāhi ῾alaihi c)Hazrath Mufti Mohammad Abdus Salaam Chatgami rahmatullāhi ῾alaihi Those Ulama who have not regarded prawns to be fish are a)Hazrath Maulana Rasheed Ahmed Gangohi rahmatullāhi ῾alaihi b)Hazrath Maulana Khaleel Ahmed Saharanpuri rahmatullāhi ῾alaihi c)Hazrath Maulana Rasheed Ahmed Ludyanwi rahmatullāhi ῾alaihi When analyzing the basis of the different views, one finds disagreement on what constitutes the valid shar’ee measure upon which we could base the classification of prawns. Those that regard prawns as impermissible believe that the valid grounds would be the classification of the scientists. Hazrath Mufti Rasheed Ahmed Ludyanwi(ra) in Ahsanul Fatāwā mentions that there are three features in fish. 1) Spine 2) Gill 3) Fins These features are not found in prawns, hence prawns are not fish. Hazrath Mufti Abdur Raheem Lajpuri rahmatullāhi ῾alaihi states that prawns have been referred to as fish. Hereunder are some references; الروبيان (جهينكا) هو السمك صغير جداً (حيوة الحيوان 1/460) الاربيان بالكسر سمك كالدود (قاموس المحيط 4/332) (و الاربيان بالكسر سمك كالدود) و في الصحاح بيض من السمك كالدوديكون بالبصرة فصل الراء من باب الواو و الياء (صحاح مع تاج العروس عربي 10/143) امام بغوي و السيد مرتضى الزبيدي Hazrath Ml Ashraf Ali Thanwi (ra) says “there are no specific features of a samak(proven through valid evidence) in the absence of which, would discount it from being classified as a samak.” There are two reliable opinions with respect to the issue of prawns. Taqwā would demand that a person refrains from eating prawns, though there is leeway in consuming it. And Allah knows best. Ali bin Cassim Student Darul Iftaa Los Angeles, CA (USA) Checked and Approved by, Muftī Ebrahim Desai Daruliftaa 35 Candella Rd, Durban, South Africa T : 031-207-5772 F: 086-692-7275 www.daruliftaa.net askimam

“Verily, Allah is with the patient”