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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

First and foremost, my condolences go out to the families and loved ones of all innocent civilians who tragically lost their lives. Noncombatant deaths are always a loss for humanity. Meanwhile, the media in both India and Pakistan—amplified by their respective governments—are driving sharply divergent narratives. In Pakistan, amidst intense political turmoil and military suppression, the dominant narrative is that this was a false flag operation orchestrated by the Indian government. In contrast, Indian media immediately blamed the Pakistani military, escalating rhetoric and issuing threats of retaliation against the Pakistani state. The Indian foreign office acted swiftly, taking five notable steps, the most significant being the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty—a move implying the potential cutting off of water supplies to Pakistan. But let’s assess the reality of this threat: India lacks the capacity—both technically and geographically—to unilaterally stop Pakistan’s water. The treaty is underpinned by the World Bank, giving it international legal and political weight. India is the upper riparian, meaning water flows from India to Pakistan. Any reckless attempt to divert or block this flow would set a dangerous precedent—one that China, the upper riparian for many of India’s rivers (originating from Tibet), could use against India in future disputes. From a global optics perspective, a false flag operation would undermine India's own image, especially while U.S. Vice President JD Vance was visiting—a crucial time when India is seeking to attract international investment and finalize key trade deals. So, who’s behind this incident? To answer that, we must consider geography and strategic positioning. Based on known deployments and regional characteristics: The LoC (Pakistan-administered Kashmir) is too far north for this to have occurred from there. Indian Punjab and adjoining regions are heavily militarized, making infiltration highly improbable from the west. The Ladakh sector is ruled out due to extreme cold and terrain challenges. That leaves Jammu, specifically its southern belt—a region with a significant Hindu population—as the likely area of infiltration. If that’s accurate, it raises a serious red flag for Indian security services, as it would indicate that militancy or insurgency is expanding beyond its traditional zones. Will there be a War? No sane person should ever wish for war. Innocent civilians on both sides of the border would suffer deeply due to the political brinkmanship of two narcissistic leaders—Narendra Modi and General Asim Munir. That said, the Modi government has boxed itself into a corner with increasingly aggressive rhetoric and slogans like "Ghar mein ghus ke maarenge" (“We’ll enter their homes and strike”). This kind of bravado has raised expectations that cannot be easily managed. From a conventional standpoint, India cannot engage in kinetic action against Pakistan without triggering serious consequences. Pakistan may be smaller and economically weaker, but that very imbalance means it has far less to lose—while India has everything to lose. Unfortunately, a segment of Indian society has come to view itself through a lens of hyper-masculinity and nationalism, disconnected from the strategic reality. After the events of 2019—when Pakistan shot down an Indian jet and captured its pilot—any future provocation will undoubtedly be met with retaliation. With General Asim Munir’s popularity at an all-time low, he may feel compelled to respond even more aggressively than the previous leadership to salvage his position. That, in itself, is a dangerous motivator. Escalation could spiral quickly, and Indian leadership is fully aware of this. The real danger lies in two leaders locked in a confrontation they can no longer control. It’s important to clarify that the current leadership of Pakistan’s military may not be driven by Islamic or patriotic ideals, but the rank-and-file soldiers, airmen, and sailors remain highly trained, disciplined, and motivated. For the people of Pakistan, it is time to accept the inevitability of an India-Pakistan conflict, not out of warmongering but as a call to vigilance. As the old Roman maxim says: “Si vis pacem, para bellum” – If you want peace, prepare for war. Until that moment comes, Pakistan must assure the international community that if India initiates kinetic action, the response will be irregular, asymmetric, and disproportionate—aimed not at escalation for its own sake, but to safeguard sovereignty and deter future aggression. For now, the people and Government of Pakistan must drop the stupid and ridiculous conspiracy theories and act to avoid war by following International norms and standards. We had our brothers telling us that 9/11 was a conspiracy and now we have Senior Deobandi Ulama confirming that 9/11 was done by Al-Qaeda and Taliban knew about it. What is the future? War is inevitable—and while India may be the one to initiate it, it will be the Muslims who bring it to a close. And by that, I do not mean the Muslims of Pakistan alone.

the response will be irregular, asymmetric, and disproportionate—

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

Sunni Taliban First Response to Shia Iran (Must Watch)

Taliban condemned the attack and said American military was responsible for providing security at the site of explosion.

I have never understood as to why there are a billion courses, gazillion articles and trillion apps to keep track of a Mas'ala which has affected mankind from day one. There is absolutely no way that Sahabiyyat kept track of calendars or took extensive notes and a large number of Muslim women cannot read or write. I spoke to Mufti Asadullah Shehbaz (HA) at Jamiatur-Rasheed (Karachi) and before I share his answer, I would like to hear from a Sister as to why this issue is so complex that it needs tables and Apps to track?

As-Salaam alaikum, ''And whosoever puts his trust in Allah, He shall suffice him.'' (Talaq 65:3) ''And in Allah let the believers put all their trust''. (Ibrahim 14:11) In the Hadith also, it is related that the Prophet, Sallallahu alaihi Wasallam, said:- ''There shall enter Paradise of my community 70,000 without reckoning: those are they who that neither make auguries, nor brand themselves, nor use spells, but trust their Lord.'' (Bukhari) In his book titled: 'Kitab Sidq--The Book of Trithfulness' Imam Abu Sa'id al-Kharraz told us that ''Trust in itself and its manifestation in the heart, is this: to believe in Allah and to rely on Him, taking rest and assurance in Him as regards all that He has guaranteed; to expel from the heart all anxiety over the affairs of this world, and the means of sustenance, and every matter of which Allah has Himself taken charge; and to know that of every matter of which man stands in need, be it of this world or the next, Allah is the ruler and provider, for none but Allah can bring it to him, and none but Allah can withhold it from him. In trust, all desire and trepidation must depart from the heart, with all fear, if these be connected with other than Allah: for a man must have confidence in Him, and a full knowledge and firm conviction that Allah's hand is outreached towards him, to provide him with all that he seeks-- for no good shall befall him save by Allah's Command and no evil shall overtake him save with His leave.''

This is an excerpt from one of Tariq Masood’s speeches. Its translated more or less meaning. Questioner asks to obtain girl I made lots of prayer in latter parts of night. I didn’t have an unlawful relationship. Despite my sincere efforts I wasn’t able to obtain her. But I believe that Allah will provide me someone better. Sheikh replies this happens quite a bit. Truly difficult situation. You prayed all this time despite your efforts in the end you are not able to obtain her. In the Quran Allah says “Or shall man have what he wishes?” (53:24) This is rhetorical question. Answer to which is what man wishes doesn’t happen all the time. Truly whatever prayers you have made in night we hope Allah out of his mercy accepts them. If that individual was not meant for you, you will get someone better. Did I not say we should think positive? Firstly we should have positive opinion of Allah. The Prophet (saw) said, “Allah says: ‘I am just as My slave thinks I am, (i.e. I am able to do for him what he thinks I can do for him).” Allah forbid that you think Allah intended bad for me because of your perspective it will be bad. Rather have positive thought that whatever happened is for my best. It could be that you got married to her. Rather than being source of happiness she tortures you. Allah will provide you someone better. And it could be that the one you do get married to, she is not better and is torturing you. So one will ask has Allah truly provided me someone better? We have to believe Allah knowledge is perfect and our intellect is deficient. “it may be that you dislike a thing which is good for you and that you like a thing which is bad for you. Allah knows but you do not know.”(2:216) Meaning of having faith is to believe whatever occurring in my life is nothing but good. My other advice or request in late parts of night avail opportunity to pray for forgiveness. Wouldn’t that be better? Focus on obtaining forgiveness of Allah.

Imām al-Ghazālī (رحمه الله) on overcoming arrogance: If you see someone who is older than you, then think that that person has done more ʿibādah (acts of worship) than you. If you see someone younger than you, then think that that person has less sins than you. If you see someone more knowledgeable than you, then think that there is no doubt he is better than you. If you see someone with less knowledge than you, then think that he has committed sins out of ignorance, while you sinned knowingly.

FREE ASSOCIATION AND PRAYER In therapy we use a technique called free association, a practice in psychoanalytic therapy, which is to let the client share thoughts, words, and anything else that comes to the mind freely. Now, the benefit of this is to help clients understand what they really think and feel about themselves, others, and the situations they are experiencing versus what they tell themselves they think and feel, in an atmosphere of non-judgmental curiosity and acceptance. A powerful experience! Now, I've been thinking about the concept of 'Dua' in our beautiful religion, and how similar it is to free association in psychoanalytic therapy. When we make dua to Allah; with our hearts, we are talking to Allah about our thoughts, worries and stressors. When talking to him we are our authentic selves, not the self we show to the world but our true self. We talk to him about our mistakes, insecurities, challenges and things that we find difficult to even speak about with others. We feel safe, held, accepted in a non-judgmental environment. We understand our problems better and feel at peace. How content and relieved do we feel after we talk to Allah with our hearts! A sense of healing! We are instilled with hope, strength and courage. Alhamdulillah This is the beauty of Dua. He listens and responds beautifully, in ways we just haven't really understood. Subhanallah! "And your Lord says, “Call upon Me; I will respond to you.” (Surat Ghafir: 60) Taken from Quotes from Therapy on Instagram https://instagram.com/quotesfromtherapy?igshid=q5qxfx0viopy

Q: I know that kaffaarah fasts have to be kept consecutively, with no break in between. My question is that if a female has to keep kaffaarah fasts, then how will she keep them consecutively, taking into consideration that her haidh will come between the fasts? A: The days of her haidh are excluded from her kaffaarah days. Hence, immediately after the haidh ends, she should continue with the kaffaarah. And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best. قلت أرأيت المرأة يجب عليها شهران متتابعان فتحيض فيهما أتستقبل الصيام أم كيف تصنع قال إن كان الحيض يصيبها في كل شهر لا بد لها منه فعليها أن تقضي أيام حيضها ولا تستقبل الصيام وتصل ذلك بالشهرين (الأصل للشيباني 2/220) ولو كانت امرأة فصامت عن كفارة الإفطار في رمضان أو عن كفارة القتل فحاضت في خلال ذلك لا يلزمها الاستقبال لأنها لا تجد صوم شهرين لا تحيض فيهما فكانت معذورة (بدائع الصنائع 5/111) (فإن لم يجد ما يعتق صام شهرين متتابعين ليس فيهما رمضان وأيام منهية) وهي يوم الفطر ويوم النحر وأيام التشريق لأن التتابع منصوص عليه وشهر رمضان لم يشرع فيه صوم آخر غيره في حق المقيم الصحيح والصوم في العيدين وأيام التشريق منهي عنه فلا يتأدى به الكامل وينقطع التتابع بدخول هذه الأيام لأنه يجد شهرين متواليين خاليين عن هذه الأيام بخلاف ما إذا حاضت المرأة في صوم كفارة الإفطار أو القتل حيث لا ينقطع به الترتيب لأنها لا تجد بدا منه في شهرين بخلاف كفارة اليمين والنفاس والمرض حيث يستقبل في هذه الأشياء لأنه يمكن وجود شهرين خاليين عن النفاس والمرض ومدة كفارة اليمين قليلة فيمكنها أن تصوم مرتبا من غير حرج (تبيين الحقائق 3/10) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach

beautiful anecdote!

Who are the Ahlul Bayt - Part 3 To emphasize that the command of respect and honour is not only for the wives of Rasulullah Salallahu Alaihi wa Sallam, rather for all those Sahabah Radiyallah Anhum who enjoyed a close relationship with Rasulullah Alaihis Salaam, Rasulullah Sallalahu Alaihi wa Sallam on various occasions gave indication to who else the word Ahlul-Bayt refers to: a) Rasulullah Sallalahu Alaihi wa Sallam declared that Hadrat Fatimah Radiyallah Anha, Hadrat Ali Radiyallah Anhu, Hadrat Hasan Radiyallah Anhu and Hadrat Husein Radiyallah Anhu are from his Ahl (family), as well as Hadrat Wathila ibn al-Asqa' Radiyallah Anhu, who, when he heard Rasulullah Sallalahu Alaihi wa Sallam saying, 'O Allah, these are my Ahlul-Bayt (family)', He asked from far, 'O Rasulullah, what about me?’ to which Rasulullah Sallalahu Alaihi wa Sallam replied, 'and you too are from my family.' (Sahih Ibn Hibaan) b) During the digging of the trench, as the Muhajireen Radiyallah Anhum and Ansar Radiyallah Anhum discussed with regards to which camp should Hadrat Salmaan al-Farsi Radiyallah Anhu join, since each desired having him in their group, Rasulullah Sallalahu Alaihi wa Sallam said, 'Salmaan is from us, from the Ahle-Bayt!' (Al-Mu’jamul Kabir Lit-Tabraani) c) Rasulullah Sallalahu Alaihi wa Sallam enshrouded Hadrat Abbaas Radiyallah Anhu and his children with his shawl and said, ‘These are my family members (Ahle-Bayt).’ (Amalul Yaum Wal Laylah) d) When Rasulullah Sallalahu Alaihi wa Sallam announced the prohibition of his blood relatives (i.e. the children of Haashim and Muttalib) taking Zakaah, he addressed all with the title of 'Ahlul-Bayt'.(Sahih Ibn Khuzaaimah) Hadrat Zaid Bin Arqam Radiyallah Anhu narrated, ‘One day Rasullallah Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam stood up amongst us to deliver sermon at a watering place known as Khumm. He praised Allah, extolled Him and delivered the sermon and exhorted (us) and said: “O people, I am leaving amongst you two weighty things: the one being the Book of Allah in which there is right guidance and light, so hold fast to the Book of Allah and adhere to it. He then said: The second are the members of my household I remind you of your duties (he repeated this thrice) to the members of my family.” Husain ibn Sabrah (one of those present) asked Hadrat ZaidRadiyallah Anhu: “Who are the members of his household? Aren't his wives the members of his family?” Hadrat ZaidRadiyallah Anhu replied: “His wives are the members of his family (but here) the members of his family are those for whom acceptance of Zakat is forbidden.” Husain ibn Sabrah further asked: “Who are they? Thereupon Hadrat ZaidRadiyallah Anhu said: “Ali and the offspring of 'Ali, 'Aqil and the offspring of 'Aqil and the offspring of Ja'far and the offspring of 'Abbas Radiyallahu Anhum).” (Sahih Muslim) Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

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الْقَابِضُ الْبَاسِطُ الْقَابِضُ andالْبَاسِطُ will be discussed together. These are the names which have meanings which are opposite to each other. They work in tandem and that is why they are used together. Translation الْقَابِضُ is translated as The Withholder and The Restrainer so The One Who restrains, constricts, contracts. الْبَاسِطُis translated as The Reliever, The Expander and The Unfolder. The One Who expands, unfolds, relieves. الْقَابِضُ has the meaning of closing in or constricting and الْبَاسِطُhas the meaning of opening up or expanding. Scholars say whether it’s a person’s Akhlaaq/personality, or Rizq, or their bodies and their souls, if Allah ta’ala wants to expand them or constrict them then no one can stop Him. Therefore this expanding and constricting applies to everything. Some say that الْقَابِضُ is The One Who takes the Rooh out of the body at the time of death and for life, الْبَاسِطُ is The One Who spreads the Rooh throughout the body. These words are often used in terms of going astray or being guided.الْقَابِضُ would mean to be misguided or going astray andالْبَاسِطُ means to be guided, expanded. The State of Bast & Qabdh It can also be used in terms of the heart and feelings of hope and fear i.e. feeling Allah ta’ala’s Majesty and Rahmah, feeling His beauty and kindness and having hope which would beالْبَاسِطُ and this is an expansion. When a person feels fear and restricted in terms of the feelings of Allah ta’ala then that is الْقَابِضُ Some Scholars take a spiritual take on this. We go through difficulties in life where we sometimes feel spiritually low and that is the state of Qabdh. It is a state of constriction where the heart is constricted and does not feel the closeness as much as it should. The state of Bast is when the heart opens up and one has a spiritual high and makes spiritual progress. Everything is in the Hands of Allah ta’ala Allah ta’ala can make a poor person a king or a king into a pauper. He can make a weak person strong or vice versa and this all is in the hands of Allah ta’ala. Many times Allah ta’ala shows us in the world. Two people start the same job, one of whom is very intelligent, educated, qualified, experienced, etc. and you think this person will attain success. The other person who is less educated, intelligent and experienced is expected to fail however it is for the less educated, less intelligent person that the job expands and he succeeds and Allah ta’ala is الْبَاسِطُ. For the other person Alah ta’ala is الْقَابِضُ i.e. He is restraining/holding. Story of Taaloot (Surah Baqarah, verse 246-252) The Bani Isra’eel asked their Prophet to give them a king who would lead them against their enemy but they had their own concept of who the king should be. Allah ta’ala chose Taaloot who was of the Bani Isra’eel, a young and hardworking man however not regarded by the Bani Isra’eel as capable of being a king. Allah ta’ala says, وَاللَّهُ يُؤْتِي مُلْكَهُ مَنْ يَشَاءُ ۚ وَاللَّهُ وَاسِعٌ عَلِيمٌ Allah grants kingship to whom He pleases and Allah has boundless knowledge. [last part of verse 247 of Surah Baqarah] Sometimes a person may have the image of being a great leader but does not have the ability while a person who is not regarded as capable, can turn out to be a better leader. This is something in which Allah ta’ala is الْبَاسِطُ and الْقَابِضُ Wisdom of Expansion What is the Hikmat behind Allah ta’ala being الْبَاسِطُ and الْقَابِضُ? Whenever Allah has put Bast (Expansion) in something there must be Khayr and Hikmat in it and if Allah ta’ala puts Qabdh (Restriction) in something there must be Khayr and Hikmat in it. This is mentioned in Surah Shura, verse 27, وَلَوْ بَسَطَ اللَّهُ الرِّزْقَ لِعِبَادِهِ لَبَغَوْا فِي الْأَرْضِ وَلَٰكِنْ يُنَزِّلُ بِقَدَرٍ مَا يَشَاءُ ۚ إِنَّهُ بِعِبَادِهِ خَبِيرٌ بَصِيرٌ Had Allah bestowed abundance upon His servants, they would have transgressed beyond bounds in the earth; that's why He sends down in due measure as He pleases; He is well aware and observant of His servants. If Allah ta’ala had spread out Rizq to all His creation where it was easy and made open where everyone was well to do and everyone had a lot then Allah ta’ala says, there would have been Fasaad (Rebellion or excess) on earth and this is human nature that when people have wealth there will be Fasaad and no one can escape it i.e. no one can say it would not happen to me because when Allah ta’ala says something in the Qur’an, it means it applies to all human beings with maybe the Ambiyaa being excluded. When people have wealth it has an effect and the biggest effect is that the person is not dependant on or controlled by anyone and they feel important. Hirs (Desire for the world) also increases and the end result is that the person becomes aggressive about possessions. This verse shows Hikmat. Instead of giving everything to everyone, Allah ta’ala distributed Rizq (Wealth, looks, knowledge, happiness, wisdom, intelligence etc. as Rizq includes everything) according to His knowledge and Wisdom. Sometimes you see people who outwardly have a perfect life but there will always be something they do not have. A couple who have everything they want may not have children and that is their struggle because if they had everything then it would be too perfect. Or sometimes people do have everything however soon it may get taken away or they may die early. Therefore even if everything is good we should realise that it is a test and it can get taken away. Allah ta’ala has made a system where people are dependent on one another to some extent. If a person has a lot of wealth but no knowledge then they need someone to teach them. How can a person be generous if everyone had wealth and there was no poverty? So this dependency is not a bad thing. We just look at our own personal wants and our fears are limited to our own life but Allah ta’ala gives and takes looking at the benefit of all of humanity. Saying this does not mean we should be complacent with poverty or injustice. We should still help others as this is part of our Deen. وَجَعَلْنَا بَعْضَكُمْ لِبَعْضٍ فِتْنَةً أَتَصْبِرُونَ ۗ وَكَانَ رَبُّكَ بَصِيرًا In fact, We test you by means of one another. Now, will you show patience, for your Rabb is Ever Observant. [Last part of verse 20: Surah Furqaan] Having differences in Rizq is all part of being tested, having Sabr when not having something and making Shukr when in good conditions. The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam said, “Look at those who are beneath you and do not look at those who are above you, for it is more suitable that you should not consider as less the blessing of Allah.” [Ibn Majah] Use in Du’a يا باسِطَ الْيَدَيْنِ بِاارَّحْمَةِ O You who have opened Your hands for mercy! This is part of a long Du’a (Not sure if it is authentic as there is a story attached to it) It means we spread out our hands knowing the Rahmah of Allah ta’ala. There are many Du’as which ask Allah t’ala to be Baasit – to open up, to give. We should ask Allah ta’ala for His grace and to increase our love for Him. Counsel In terms of Aqeedah, to know Allah ta’ala controls all these levers in our lives and no one can increase or decrease in something except Allah ta’ala. To make Du’a for ease in Rizq and also to put effort in it in a Halaal way. A person should realise both states. When in a situation of Qabdh (Constriction), spiritually, physically, financial, health etc. then we should think of this as Allah ta’ala being just and make Sabr. We should know our reality and that we do not even deserve so many of the things. When we are in a situation of Bast (Expansion) then we should regard it as the Fadhl of Allah ta’ala that it is His generosity and make Shukr. Hearts Constrict & Expand through speech Imam Ghazali (Rahimahullah) says that there are people who can constrict and expand hearts through their speech and this is so true as we do have speakers and preachers who help and guide people. It is interesting to see this power which Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam referred to. Two men came from the East and addressed the people who wondered at their eloquent speeches. On that the Prophet sallallaahu ‘layhi wasallam said, “Some eloquent speech is as effective as magic.” [Bukhari] When speakers remind people of the blessings of Allah ta’ala the hearts expand and when they hear of the punishment of Allah ta’ala their hearts constrict in fear. Allah ta’ala uses both in the Qur’an as encouragement and to expand and also to constrict when we read about Jahannam. *~~*~~*

Absolute Submission Sayyiduna Mugheerah bin Shu’bah (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) reports the following incident: On one occasion, I sent a proposal to marry a girl of the Ansaar. When I mentioned this to Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), he asked me, “Did you see the girl?” When I replied in the negative, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) recommended to me, “Look at her, for it is more likely that there will be affection and love between you (i.e. if you marry her after looking at her and finding her pleasing to your eye, there will be a greater chance of your marriage prospering).” I thus proceeded to the girl’s home and told her parents what Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) had mentioned. Hearing that I wanted to look at their daughter, the parents were reluctant. Hence, I stood and began to leave their home. As I was leaving, the girl asked her parents to call me back. When I returned, she stood at the edge of the curtain and said, “If Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) instructed you to look at me then I permit you to do so. If not, then I strictly forbid you to look at me.” Accordingly, I looked at her and married her. Subsequently, she was extremely beloved to me and honoured in my sight. (Ibnun Najjaar – Kanzul ‘Ummaal #45619) Lessons: 1. The hayaa (modesty) of the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) and their protectiveness over their womenfolk was such that the parents of the girl were initially reluctant when Sayyiduna Mugheerah (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) asked to see their daughter. Similarly, until she learnt that it was the instruction of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), the daughter was not prepared to allow any strange man to look at her. 2. The Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) were blessed with the quality of absolute submission before the instruction of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam). Hence, they always put their own intellect, understanding and emotion aside and completely complied with the wishes and desires of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), understanding that this was the key to success in both worlds. Similarly, if we wish true happiness and success, we will have to adhere strictly to the teachings of Deen. 3. Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) has taught us the guidelines that need to be adhered to regarding marriage, and has told us that following these guidelines are the key to a prosperous marriage. Hence, if we surpass the bounds of shari‘ah and begin to engage in impermissible practices, such as the boy and girl communicating or even dating before marriage, we will lose the barakah (blessings) and help of Allah Ta‘ala which is essential for the marriage to prosper. Thus, we should always refer to the ‘Ulama to find out the limits of shari‘ah so that we can ensure that we remain within the parameters of Deen. uswatulmuslimah

A miser was on his death bed. He told his wife to put all his money in a box and bury it with him. She promised him she would. Soon after that he died. At the funeral her friend asked her if she had done as she had promised. She said yes she had and her friend looked very shocked. She smiled and said, "I deposited all the money in the bank, wrote him a cheque and put it in the box. If he can cash the cheque, he can have the money!"

Does acid reflux break the fast? Q. I have reflux in pregnancy but I'm trying to fast today and it's already came up my throat twice. will my fast be accepted? (Question published as received) A. An Acid reflux occurs when part of the stomach contents travels back up the oesophagus (sometimes into the throat and even into the mouth). Acid reflux happens unintentionally/involuntarily. If one experiences acid reflux whilst fasting, the fast will only break if the contents enter the mouth and is then swallowed intentionally. If the contents enter the mouth and is swallowed involuntarily or spat out, the fast will not break. (Kitaabul Fataawa 3/389) In any event, the fast will not be effected if it does not reach the mouth or if it is not swallowed. And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best Mufti Ismaeel Bassa Confirmation: Mufti Ebrahim Desai Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Since when has sunnah become such that it requires a model? Since when has libaasut taqwa (clothing of piety) become such that it is now a label on ones clothing? How time has evolved, that the sunnah libaas was once a way to recognise the believers. But now it has become such that can be adorned by anyone . Every time I hear or read the narration when hijab/niqab was made compulsory, sahabiya didn't delay but immediately covered themselves with sheets. My heart aches with love and admiration for them . But today, 1437 years later this so called ruling of niqab/hijaab has become a fashion statement. When I dress with my jilbaab, it is as if it's something so foreign. That I am asked why do you wear this? And suddenly slim fit cloaks aren't slim fit anymore. There was a time when men who wore a simple kurta with a simple turban etc was admired. But today even the dress of men has become fashionable. Beard was once a sign of the strength of a believing man, men who were companions of the Messenger ﷺ, now muslim men only wear it because it is a fashion. But what can one do besides pray and hope that soon sunnah will be a statement on its own and not a fashion statement. May Allah grant us all guidance and sincerity in our actions. Aameen.

Tadbeer, Tafweez and faith in Taqdeer is the solution to depression: For better understanding, the following excerpts are taken from "The Cure for Depression Tafweez" by Shaykh Yunus Patel (Raheemahullah) Tadbeer: Making Effort Tafweez: Antidote to Depression Taqdeer:Predestination Great wisdom lies in the decisions of Allah. Something much worse could have happened....

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)

Our elders teach us the basic guide-lines in a very simple way to follow Quran and Sunnah. Their malfuzat (collection of sayings) are always useful to spend a safe and sound life. We know that Shaytan is a very cunning and shrewd enemy of mominin. He doesn't miss even a single chance to deceive and deviate us. Teachings of elders show us the way to protect ourselves from the tricks and stratagem of shaytan. I'm fond of reading the malfuzat of hazrat Hakimul ummat rh.a and try to follow them. He said, '' Shaytan had 3 ''AIN'' of Abid, Arif and Alim but he didn't have 4th AIN of Ashiq. You become ashiq of Allah swt (one who loves Allah swt).'' (InshaAllah) Love is very effective, powerful and dynamic which can change whole of personality, traits and even mundane of a common man. He seeks the happiness in, howsoever, fulfilling the demands and wishes of his beloved. But this love which one person feels for another person isnt everlasting. One day It fades away ,Also his partner can desert him in lurch without feeling his emotions; and he finds himself squirming in intensive-agony of breach of faith and confidence; but Allah swt never leaves His lovers. If we start loving Allah swt, we can become submissive and devoted to His commands then each and everything of the entire universe is ours because ''Man kana lillahi kanallahu lahu'' No doubt Allah swt is our creator but this is not the only correct logic to worship Him. We are to change our motive. We must think that Allah swt is our beloved so we worship Him. Our RasulAllah sallallahu alaihi wasallam has taught us this lesson '' Allahumma inni as'aluka hubbaka wa hubba man yuhibbuka'' Allah swt loves us too much. When he says - ''Qul Ya ibadi''- this address shows the intensity of love, it can be felt in this way- when a mother or a father calls her/his son - ''O My son'' this address is blended with feelings of unfathomable affection; and emotions emanates from the depth of heart which can be felt by a sensible son. In these ayat- who're addressed? Gentle, noble and pious mominin? No, rather- ''Allazina asrafu anfusahum'' those who transgressed and violated the Sharia and committed sins- not only small but big as well. ''La taqnatu min rahmatillah''- these sinners dont need to be disappointed from the mercy and compassion of Allah swt. He will forgive all sins of sinners. Why does Allah swt showers so much love, affection and intimacy to His servants. The reason is that all of us are the creation of Allah swt and Allah swt has decorated the paradise with His own hands for us; and Allah swt wants all his servants to live comfortably in paradise because Allah swt doesn't wish to see us in hell fire. Though Allah swt is our Lord yet He loves us so much. It seems to be an act of disloyalty and treachery if we dont Love our Lord. Source

Question: Is it allowed to wear different colours scarfs with a black abaya? Can we wear a black abaya with black designs on it? Is it allowed to wear a hoodie/sweater on top of the abaya? Answer:In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. The dress of a woman should: 1) Conceal the body. 2) Be loose so that it does not reveal the shape and form of the body. 3) The dress should not attract the attention of men, for example having bright colours etc. According to the principals outlined above, it will be permissible for a woman to wear coloured scarfs , and abayas with black designs and hooded sweaters as long as they do not violate any of the above mentioned conditions. If any form of dress dose not confirm to these conditions, it will not be permissible. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. idealwoman.org

Be this kind of Muslimah “Hate no one, no matter how much they’ve wronged you. Live humbly, no matter how wealthy you become. Think positively, no matter how hard life is. Give much, even if you’ve been given little. Keep in touch with the ones who have forgotten you, and forgive who has wronged you, and do not stop praying for the best for those you love.” idealwoman.org