ummtaalib

jamiat.org “Team work makes dream work’’ Series 2 – Chapter 1 Disclaimer: The stories in our articles are not factual. Their themes however, are based on real life challenges. This series is aimed at the married males in our community. As with series one, using real life stories, we will attempt to tread over some challenging marital minefields. InshaAllah, we look towards resolutions and not explosions! In series 1, which was aimed at the married females, we looked at, the perfection of our Deen, the perfect marriage system that Allah has created for us to enjoy with dignity and that spouses are meant to complement one another. However, since humans are imperfect and our level of Taqwa is rather diluted in comparison to the Sahaba Radiyallahu Anhum, there is bound to be some misunderstanding, miscommunicating and other such “misses” through the spousal relationship. When these happen, perhaps we may use it as a reminder of the fact that the Sifat (Quality) of Perfection belongs to Allah alone and we certainly cannot expect humans to be flawless. We also looked at some useful skills to apply to mitigate the marital challenges and where necessary, the permissibility of some tough decisions. In this Chapter, we promised to help the males understand how to humbly carry their position as the Ameer (leader) of the family. Let’s begin: One sunny summer’s day, into our offices stormed a husband in crisis. Smouldering Saleem expressed that he had had just about enough from his wife. She had physically lashed out at him over what seemed to him like a small issue. Within consult, we were advised by the husband that “we must immediately fix his wife or else!” With that rather stern warning in tow, we managed to contain his smouldering and advised him diplomatically that whilst our centre does not offer overnight express miracles, we most certainly may assist them both over time with their challenges. Sounds a bit funny at this point, but as you would guess, it was not at all so in that hour. Within the session we came to understand that in their relationship, as Ameer of the family, Smouldering Suleman took on his responsibility of steering their ship a bit too strongly…with some sharp yanking at the helm! He took most decisions without mashwera (consulting/discussion) with his wife and expected that things go as he had planned most of the time because he was of course the captain. Let’s pause for a moment…If this description sounds a bit like you, then I’ll ask you to step into your wife’s world for a bit. Always receiving instruction, no opinions are accepted, let alone understood, constantly having to follow the husband’s lead…suddenly feels a bit hot under the collar, doesn’t it? Back to reality, know that your strength and capability to navigate turbulent seas is MashaAllah, strapping. However, even a captain has a first officer who he consults with regarding an alternative perspective. Hearing your wife’s point of view is useful and does NOT diminish your authority. It elevates your status in her eyes and heart. Remember how Nabi Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam asked his wife Umme Salamah Radiyallahu Anha for advice when the sahaba Radiyallahu Anhum felt sad and didn’t remove their Ihraam after being unable to perform Umrah due to being prevented from the Kuffar of Makkah. Our beloved Nabi Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam took her advice and removed his Ihraam, and the Sahaba Radiyallahu Anhum followed suit. Try it out sometimes… Ask your spouse her opinion on a subject and listen to her perspective. It does not mean that you must follow it, but it may amaze you how smart she is…if only you pause enough to ask and listen. It will do your relationship a whole lot of good if you engage in a mashwera (consulting) process with your spouse especially where the decisions concern her. A gradual approach for the Ameer to initiate a mashwera process: At first it may feel like a daunting process. No, it does not mean you are giving away your title as Ameer. It means you are managing your position within the framework of Deen and ‘teamwork makes dream work’. Soon you will notice your relationship begin to improve. Begin with a general topic, like the weather or world news. Once you feel comfortable with hearing her opinions about this, work your way inwards to more sensitive topics. AVOID presenting your opinion when she is busy discussing hers. The point of this process is to listen to her without correcting/changing it. Of course her opinion is going to be different from yours! If Allah has created every single fingerprint different, it’s the Same One Allah who has also created your mind and her mind to think differently. We find that many males choose to engage in logical discussions rather than emotional ones. If this is your personality then this guideline may be useful for you. Repeat what it is that she has said. Another word for this is ‘validate’. This helps her feel understood. You may also add on words like “this sounds important to you” or “you saying that you like/dislike….” Thank her for her perspective and time even if you won’t follow her suggestion that time. Try as best as possible to consider her needs and appease her because one day the Ameer will stand accountable before his Creator. Now, what to do with all that extra steering energy? We may redirect this muscle into healthier outlets. One of the skills we strongly recommend for our males is regular exercise. Exercise will help you manage the strength that you have otherwise been over-investing in your role. InshaAllah, in the next Chapter we will look at Danyal’s Dilemmas and how he worked on mitigating these. Appa Z Aboobaker

By Hafiz Dr Ebrahim Mayet – Completed Hifz at 64 Years Old My journey to becoming a Hafiz of the Noble Qur’an began in 1988 when I moved to Port Elizabeth at the age of 32 to work at Livingstone Hospital. At that time, I struggled to recite properly - Surah Yaseen alone took me an hour. During my first Ramadaan there, I attended Taraweeh and was struck by the Imam’s powerful yet unhurried recitation. He paused, repeated verses, even cried, and I could hear every word clearly - yet I understood almost nothing. I thought to myself: This is the Speech of Allah… how can He be speaking to me and I not understand? That realisation lit a spark in my heart. From then on, I began reciting whatever I could, slowly, together with the English translation. It was painstaking and I forgot most of what I read, but the Qur’an came alive for me - it felt as if I was being drawn into its world. In 1995, at the age of 39, I performed Hajj. Standing behind Sheikh Sudais and Sheikh Shuraim in Makkah gave me goose bumps. Back home, I listened daily to their recordings after Fajr, following the meanings with my finger and trying to match the Arabic words to their recitation. This continued for years, but I still understood little during Taraweeh. I realised I needed to learn Qur’anic Arabic. In 2012, at the age of 56, I began a self-study Arabic course. It was systematic - teaching grammar, vocabulary, and comprehension with reading exercises and written answers. Writing was the key; it made the knowledge stick. It was the most enjoyable and effective language course I had ever done. In December 2015, I decided to begin Hifz with a local Aalim. We started in January 2016, just before I turned 60. It took four years and nine months to complete. My routine was fixed: wake up at 3:30am to memorise until Fajr, then continue for about an hour after, with revision between Maghrib and Esha. I never missed a day except when sick. On average, I memorised ¾ to 1 page every few days, plus constant revision of both recent and older portions. My golden rule: I never memorised a verse without knowing its meaning. I would read the verse, look up the meaning, use my Arabic to understand it, then memorise it. Even during revision, I relied on meaning for recall. Today, Alhamdulillah, whether I recite or stand behind an Imam, I understand 90-95% of what is being recited. This transforms Salaah into a deeply engaging and focused experience, allowing me to connect with Allah’s words and apply them in daily life. My message: No matter your age or profession, you can memorise the Qur’an - start small if needed but start. Learn its meanings, and if possible, learn Arabic. Understanding the language is like being given the key to a priceless treasure: direct access to what Allah is saying to you. The Qur’an is a guide, a reminder, good news, and instruction. To gain its full guidance - understand it! Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Nasihah (Advice): The man is responsible for his family Sayyiduna Abdullah Ibn Umar Radiyallahu anhuma reported that Rasulullah Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam said, "Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you is responsible for his flock. The man is a shepherd over his family and is responsible for them..." (Sahih Bukhari) ______________________________ Question and Answer: Q. I understand that when a man gets married, he becomes responsible for his wife and children — guiding them away from sin and encouraging them to do good. If he neglects this responsibility, he himself can be sinful. My question is: how often should a husband advise his wife if he notices her committing sins — whether minor or major? For example, let’s say during the engagement or early stages of marriage, he didn’t notice these things, but they gradually became apparent over time. Should he advise her once and leave it at that, or keep reminding her regularly? I’m concerned that constant reminders might come across as nagging, and cause her to resent me. (Question published as received) A. As a couple, it is crucial to understand that marriage is not merely a worldly bond, but a sacred partnership aimed at drawing closer to Allah Ta’ala. Just as two people build a home together, they must also build their spiritual path together — encouraging each other to increase in goodness (khayr), remain steadfast in obedience, and seek nearness to Allah through love, forgiveness, and Taqwa. This mutual journey must be based on patience, mercy, and constant growth. Both husband and wife will falter at times, but what matters is returning to Allah Ta’ala together. Rasulullah Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam said: "Every child of Adam commits sins, and the best of those who sin, are those who repent." (Tirmidhī, #2499) No one is free from mistakes — not the husband, not the wife. What distinguishes the righteous is not perfection, but a heart that constantly turns back to Allah in istighfaar (seeking forgiveness) and Tawbah (repentance). Encouraging one another to seek Allah Ta’ala's forgiveness regularly brings Barakah and purification into the home. Rasulullah Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam has stated: "Each of you is a shepherd, and each of you is responsible for his flock. The man is a shepherd over his family and is responsible for them..." (Saheeh Bukhari #893) As a husband, your role is not only to provide and protect, but to guide and nurture. If you see your wife committing errors — whether minor or major — it becomes part of your amaanah (trust) to lovingly advise her. How Often Should You Advise Her? This is a matter that requires wisdom (Hikmah), balance, and deep understanding. 1. Advise Gradually and Gently Do not overwhelm her with frequent criticism. Instead, correct gently, in private, with kind words. Choose the right time — when she is calm, open, and receptive. Allah Ta’ala says: "Call to the way of your Rabb with wisdom and good instruction and argue with them in the best manner." (Surah an-Nahl, 16:125) If the mistake is minor, consider whether it is best to advise directly or indirectly through your actions and encouragement. If it is major, then your duty is greater — but still the approach should be with love and genuine care, not harshness. 2. Lead by Personal Example Often, the most effective form of dawah is to embody the values you wish to see. Be punctual in your Salaah, speak with kindness, and show patience and gratitude. Avoid sins yourself and always seek Allah Ta’ala’s forgiveness openly — this will inspire her. Rasulullah Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam said: "The best of you is the best to his wife, and I am the best of you to my wives." (Tirmidhi, #3895) 3. Make Sincere Du’a for Her Hearts are in the control of Allah Ta’ala, not in our hands. If you truly want her to change, do not rely only on words — speak to Allah Ta’ala about her more than you speak to her about Allah Ta’ala. 4. Avoid Becoming a Nagging Figure You are right to be concerned about becoming someone she resents. If reminders become too frequent or forceful, they may push her away instead of pulling her closer. Balance between: Silent patience Gentle reminders Loving praise when she does well Encouragement in shared spiritual goals Conclusion: Build a marriage where Taqwa and mercy live side by side. Your goal is not to “fix” your wife, but to grow together in faith. Mistakes will happen, but always choose mercy over anger, love over pressure, and Du’aa over despair. Note: The above advice can also be applied for a wife advising her husband. And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best Mufti Muhammed Hamza Farooqui Mufti Taahir Hansa (The answer hereby given is specifically based on the question asked and should be read together with the question asked. Islamic rulings on this Q&A newsletter are answered in accordance to the Hanafi Fiqh unless otherwise stated.) Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Nasihah (Advice): Travelling with a Mahram Sayyiduna Abdullah Ibn Abbas Radiyallahu anhuma reported: Rasulullah Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam said, “A man should not be alone with a woman, nor should a woman travel, unless a guardian is with her.” A man stood up and said, “O Messenger of Allah, I have been assigned to an expedition and my wife has left for the Hajj pilgrimage Rasulullah Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam said, “Go and perform the pilgrimage with your wife.” (Sahih Bukhari) ______________________________ Question and Answer: Q. My husband takes me wherever I need to go. And if he cannot take me, I can go with either my father, father-in-law, brother, or maternal uncles. I do not go for coffee with the girls, but he takes me to their home, or they come to mine, and we spend time together. I have been getting comments that he is abusing me and that I should be allowed to drive alone as long as it is not Safr distance. What is the Islamic ruling with regard to this? Is it not right that even within 78 Kilometres I be accompanied by a mahram due to the safety in our country? I am not being restricted with my family or friends, and not even work (he takes me and stays with me while I work (in a female-only environment)) (Question published as received) A. Based on the information you have provided, it is very evident that your husband is protective of you out of deep love, care, and a sense of responsibility, as Islam teaches a husband to be. It is not abuse nor control when a husband lovingly ensures the safety and well-being of his wife. In fact, it is part of his duty and right to do so, and he will be rewarded for it by Allah Ta'ala, Insha’Allah. Your husband accompanies you, takes you where you need to go, ensures your comfort, and keeps you close to your family and friends. This is a clear sign of respect, protection, and affection, not oppression. You have also mentioned that when he cannot accompany you, you go with your Mahaarim (father, father-in-law, brother, uncles) - which is fully in line with Islamic guidelines. Regarding Driving and Traveling Alone Yes, according to majority of scholars, a woman may drive and travel within the distance of less than 78 kilometres (the Shar’ee Safar distance) without a Mahram, if there is safety, modesty, and no danger involved. However, if your husband prefers to take you himself out of concern for your safety and dignity, this is commendable and rooted in care - not restriction. The reality in many places today is that even short distances may carry risks, and a husband who takes these precautions is fulfilling his role. Islam prioritizes safety, honour, and dignity for both men and women. About People's Comments Sister, understand this clearly: the comments of others should not dictate how you see your marriage. When someone looks from the outside, they are not aware of the love, compassion, and mutual understanding between a husband and wife. If your husband is not preventing you from your obligations, not isolating you from your family, and not acting out of arrogance or oppression - then he is not abusive, he is simply being responsible and caring, as Islam encourages. He is fulfilling his Shar’ee rights and duties, and it is wrong for others to assume or label him based on cultural expectations or Western ideals that may not align with Islam. Furthermore, know very well that he is practicing upon Taqwa, which is a great blessing. A man of Taqwa acts out of fear of Allah, not out of ego or control. Final Advice Do not allow the negative remarks of others to influence your peace and perception. Many people, knowingly or unknowingly, sow doubts in marriages and push worldly ideologies that contradict the balance Islam teaches. May Allah Ta’ala increase the love, understanding, and mercy between you and your husband, and protect your marriage from the whispers of shaytan and ill-informed people. Ameen. And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best Mufti Muhammed Hamza Farooqui Mufti Taahir Hansa (The answer hereby given is specifically based on the question asked and should be read together with the question asked. Islamic rulings on this Q&A newsletter are answered in accordance to the Hanafi Fiqh unless otherwise stated.) Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Q. I have been struggling with depression, anxiety, and intrusive thoughts (Waham & Waswasah) for the past 20 years. I’m currently on medication, but it hasn’t been effective. Could you please advise me on what to do? Despite reading duas, my mind remains overwhelmed by anxiety and intrusive thoughts." (Question published as received) A. May Allah Almighty remove these distressing thoughts from your mind and grant you ease and relief from the difficulties you are facing. Medical and Psychological Support: Firstly, continue taking the medication prescribed by your doctor. Alongside this, we strongly recommend seeing a qualified counsellor or therapist who can help you navigate and overcome the challenges you are experiencing. Mental health struggles require both spiritual and practical support. Spiritual Practices: Make a regular habit of reciting the Qur’ān as much as you are able. Allah says in the Qur’ān: "And We send down from the Qur’an that which is a healing and a mercy for the believers." (Surah Al-Isra: 82) Here are some recommended supplications (Du'ās) to help combat the negative whisperings (waswasah) of Shaytān: رَبِّ أَعُوْذُ بِكَ مِنْ هَمَزَاتِ الشَّيَاطِينِ وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ رَبِّ أَنْ يَحْضُرُونِ “My Lord, I seek Your protection from the evil whisperings of the Shaytān, and I seek refuge with You, my Lord, from their presence.” (Surah Al-Mu’minun: 97–98) لَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللَّهِ “There is no power and no might except with Allah.” أَعُوْذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّ نَفْسِيْ وَمِنْ شَرِّ الشَّيْطَانِ وَشِرْكِهِ “I seek refuge in You from the evil of my own soul and the evil of Shaytān and his associates.” Try to recite these Du'ās sincerely whenever you are troubled by such thoughts. Additionally, make it a habit to recite Āyah al-Kursī frequently, especially after prayers and before sleeping. The Power of Du'ā Never underestimate the power of Du’ā. It is the weapon of the believer. Turn to Allah with humility and pour your heart out. Ask Him sincerely to relieve you from this hardship and grant you peace of mind. Continue Your Good Deeds Keep doing the good that you are already engaged in. Shaytān thrives on our weakness and idleness, but when we remain firm in good deeds, we defeat him. Stay active and purposeful. Stay Occupied and Informed An idle mind can be a breeding ground for negative thoughts. Keep yourself engaged in beneficial activities, especially reading authentic Islamic literature. One highly recommended resource is: “Combating the Whisperings of Shaytān” by Hazrat Moulana Yunus Patel (Rahimahullāh), which offers practical guidance on managing Waswasah. And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best Mufti Muhammed Hamza Farooqui Mufti Taahir Hansa (The answer hereby given is specifically based on the question asked and should be read together with the question asked. Islamic rulings on this Q&A newsletter are answered in accordance to the Hanafi Fiqh unless otherwise stated.) Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Q. I feel like I want to die because nothing is going right in my life, and I’m worried that the longer I live, the more sins I might commit. I have a strong desire to die. Is it haram to feel this way? (Question published as received) A. Life is a precious gift from Allah Ta‘ala. It is a person’s primary capital through which he can do good deeds to please Allah Ta‘ala and earn Jannah. Once life ends, the chance to increase our good deeds is gone forever. Feeling overwhelmed by hardship is natural, but a believer should never lose hope in Allah’s mercy. Every difficulty faced with patience, obedience, and trust in Allah becomes a source of immense reward in the Hereafter. Rasulullah sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said: “None of you should wish for death because of hardship. If he must do so, let him say: اللَّهُمَّ أَحْيِنِي مَا كَانَتِ الْحَيَاةُ خَيْرًا لِيْ، وَتَوَفَّنِي إِذَا كَانَتِ الْوَفَاةُ خَيْرًا لِيْ Allahumma ahyinee maa kaanatil hayaatu khayral lee, wa tawaffanee izaa kaanatil wafaatu khayral lee “O Allah, keep me alive so long as life is better for me, and cause me to die when death is better for me.” [Sahih Bukhari] The Fuqaha have explained that is not allowed to wish for death just because of life’s challenges and difficulties. However, if a person fears falling into sin or longs to meet Allah out of sincere love, such a desire is permissible. [Raddul Muhtaar 6/419] Death will come at its appointed time. If you are overwhelmed by the desire to die, read the above-mentioned Dua. Surround yourself with pious and sincere people whose presence inspires you to get closer to Allah and strive for His pleasure. Be punctual with Salaah, recitation of the Quraan, Zikr and sending salutations on Rasulullah sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. This will be a means of inner peace and contentment Insha’Allah. And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best Mufti Muhammed Hamza Farooqui Mufti Taahir Hansa (The answer hereby given is specifically based on the question asked and should be read together with the question asked. Islamic rulings on this Q&A newsletter are answered in accordance to the Hanafi Fiqh unless otherwise stated.) Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

When you’re in trouble, who do you call out to first? Your parents? Your spouse? A close friend? For the awliya (those who’ve made Allah their true priority), they always call out to Him first. Not after everything else fails. Not as a last resort. But immediately, instinctively, wholeheartedly. The Qur’an gives us this powerful instruction: “So flee to Allah.” (Qur’an 51:50) Not flee from Him. Not flee to distraction or despair. But flee to Him, with your pain, your confusion, your fear and your hope. Turning to Allah doesn’t require a location or a schedule. It just needs the heart to face Him. And yet, this is often the last thing we do in the moment of crisis. We panic. We reach for what seems near and familiar. The phone, a person or another plan. But the awliya have trained their hearts to turn to Allah first, not because they never ask for help from others, but because they have internalised something the rest of us tend to overlook. Their hope, their du‘a, their reliance, it all begins with Him. Why? They’ve realised that every single form of help ultimately comes from Him. Everything, every outcome and every event is under the direct control of Allah. It makes perfect sense to turn to the Source before the means. But this is not always easy. When the heart races and the mind panics, instinctively we reach out to those around us. But for the awliya, their hearts are so trained through constant dhikr, so clear from distractions, that they reflexively turn to Allah first. Imam Sha’rani beautifully captures this on page 112 of The Code of Companionship: “The righteous … when faced with hardship, they turn to Allah Most High before seeking assistance from any created being. This is because they understand, through spiritual unveiling and witnessing, that ultimate control over all matters lies in the hands of Allah, the Most Blessed, the Most High. Others often seek refuge in Allah only after seeking help from His creation.” May Allah make us among those whose hearts are trained to call onto Him first, whose hope rests entirely with the One who never disappoints and make our first instinct always be: “Ya Allah.” White Thread Press

(The 18th Surah of the glorious Quran, it is in the 15th juz’ and consists of 110 verses) Hadith: “Whoever recites Surah kahf on Friday, a Noor will shine for him until the following Friday. (Nasai, Bayhaqi, hakim) This means that Allah will place special light in his/her heart which will guide them towards good throughout the whole week. Hadith: “Whoever recites the opening ten verses of Surah kahf will be protected from the fitnah of Dajjal” (Muslim) Another Hadith says “If Dajjal appears before you, recite the last ten verses of Surah kahf, because they will protect you from his fitnah”. My shaykh Hazrat mawlana Yusuf Motala Saheb says” If Surah kahf can protect from Dajjal’s fitnah, which is the greatest fitnah from the time of Adam alayhissalam until qiyamah, then why can it not protect from the minor fitnas which we face in our lives” Here under is a beautiful article analysing the Surah. May Allah reward the writer. ———————- Ever wondered why Prophet Muhammad(SAW) asked us to recite Surat Al-Kahf every Friday? Let’s find out today inshaAllah… This Surah has Four stories in it,having some morals,lets see them and understand what they are saying to us: 1) The People Of The Cave Its the story of young men who lived in a disbelieving town, so they decided to migrate for the sake of Allah and run away. -Allah rewards them with mercy in the cave and protection from the sun – They woke up and found the entire village believers. MORAL:TRIAL OF FAITH. 2) The Owner Of Two Gardens A story of a man whom Allah blessed with two beautiful gardens, but the man forgot to thank the One who blessed him with everything and he even dared to doubt Allah regarding the afterlife.So His garden was destroyed – He regretted ,but was too late and his regret did not benefit him . MORAL:TRIAL OF WEALTH. 3) Musa(AS) and Khidr(AS) When Musa(AS) was asked-“Who’s the most knowledgeable of the people of earth?”” Musa(AS) said:Me…,but Allah revealed to him that there’s someone who Knows more than him.Musa(AS) traveled to the man and learnt how the Divine Wisdom can sometimes be hidden in matters which we perceive as bad. MORAL:TRIAL OF KNOWLEDGE. 4) Dhul-Qarnayn Its a story of the great King that was given knowledge and power and was going around the world,helping people and spreading all that’s good.He was able to overcome the problem of Yajooj-Majooj and build a massive dam with the help of people whom he could not even understand. MORAL:TRIAL OF POWER. In the middle Allah mentions Iblees as the one who stirs these trials: Behold! We said to the angels “Bow down to Adam”: they bowed down except Iblis. He was one of the Jinns, and he broke the Command of his Lord. Will ye then take him and his progeny as protectors rather than Me? And they are enemies to you! Evil would be the exchange for the wrongdoers! Now let us see what’s the relationship between Surat Al-Kahf and the Dajjal (Anti-Christ)? Dajjal will appear before Day of Judgement with the 4 trials: ***He’ll ask people to worship him and not Allah: Trial of Faith . ***He’ll be given powers to start/stop rain and tempt people with his wealth: Trial of with his wealth. . ***He’ll trial people with the “knowledge” and news he gives them: Trial of Knowledge . He’ll control huge parts of the Earth. Trial of Power . How to survive these trials? The answers are in Surat Al-Kahf Survival Kit 1: Good companionship. “And keep thy soul content with those who call on their Lord morning and evening, seeking His Face; and let not thine eyes pass beyond them, seeking the pomp and glitter of this Life; no obey any whose heart We have permitted to neglect the remembrance of Us, one who follows his own desires, whose case has gone beyond all bounds.” (Surat Al-Kahf, verse 28) Survival Kit 2: Knowing the Truth of this World . “Set forth to them the similitude of the life of this world: It is like the rain which we send down from the skies: the earth’s vegetation absorbs it, but soon it becomes dry stubble, which the winds do scatter: it is (only) Allah who prevails over all things” (Surat Al-Kahf, verse 45) Survival Kit 3: Humbleness. “Moses said: “Thou wilt find me, if Allah so will, (truly) patient: nor shall I disobey thee in aught.””(Surat Al-Kahf, verse 69) Survival Kit 4: Sincerity. “Say: “I am but a man like yourselves, (but) the inspiration has come to me, that your Allah is one Allah. whoever expects to meet his Lord, let him work righteousness, and, in the worship of his Lord, admit no one as partner.” (Surat Al- Kahf, verse 110) Survival Kit 5: Calling to Allah . “And recite (and teach) what has been revealed to thee of the Book of thy Lord: none can change His Words, and none wilt thou find as a refuge other than Him.” (Surat Al-Kahf, verse 27) Survival Kit 6: Remembering the HereAfter . “ One Day We shall remove the mountains, and thou wilt see the earth as a level stretch, and We shall gather them, all together, nor shall We leave out any one of them. And they will be marshalled before thy Lord in ranks, (with the announcement), “Now have ye come to Us (bare) as We created you first: aye, ye thought We shall not fulfil the appointment made to you to meet (Us)!”: And the Book (of Deeds) will be placed (before you); and thou wilt see the sinful in great terror because of what is (recorded) therein; they will say, “Ah! woe to us! what a Book is this! It leaves out nothing small or great,but takes account thereof !” They will find all that they did, placed before them: And not one will thy Lord treat with injustice.” (Surat Al-Kahf, verses 47-49) Source

It seems like yesterday that we welcomed Ramadaan. Now we are in to the last few moments of this blessed month. It’s time to reflect on how we spent the month and to use these last days to rescue it. If it ends well, it was spent well. As the hadith mentions, ‘Actions are judged by their endings’. Here are 10 things to ponder upon: 1) How did I spend Ramadaan? Am I happy with my worship? Where can I improve? Did I sin in Ramadaan? The sins I couldn’t avoid in Ramadaan are probably my biggest vices given I couldn’t stop them during such a blessed time. These sins require special attention and intervention. 2) What habits have I picked up in Ramadaan? Can I continue some of them? Fasting is the most obvious one. What about reciting Qur’an, Zikr, Dua, five daily prayers, charity, frequenting the masjid, night time worship, watching my tongue, eating together as a family, sharing food with others, seeking out good content online, etc? None of these are exclusive to Ramadaan. Let’s pick a few and continue with them afterwards. 3) What have I cut down on? Obviously food… But what else? Social media time, smoking, swearing, backbiting, arguing etc? How does it feel? Wouldn’t it be great if this could continue? 4) What is lacking in my learning? Perhaps I don’t know how to pray properly, I don’t read Qur’an well, I don’t know what the Qur’an says, I don’t know many basic Duas, I know very little about my Prophet’s life. Whatever your gaps are in knowledge, you can fill them by reading good books or attending programmes. 5) What about my children’s learning? Are they going to a good Madrasah? Are they attending after School Maktab? Do they recite Qur’an well, have good knowledge of Islam? Ramadaan is a good time to think about the whole family’s religiosity and think about solutions. 6) How do I treat my parents? Ill conduct towards parents is one of the worst of the major sins. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam said, “The punishment for disobeying ones parents is meted out even before a person leaves this world.” [Haakim] We must obey them, show them mercy and make sure we treat them with the utmost respect and love. 7) What about the company I keep? Do my friends bring me closer or distance me from Deen. It’s something to think about. After all, ‘a person is upon the religion of his friend.’ A friend who turns you away from Allah is a friend you do not need. Allah Ta’ala states, ‘Close friends on that Day (of Qiyaamah), will be enemies to each other, except for the righteous.’ [Surah Zukhruf] 8) Are there any other relationships I need to mend? It’s not too late. Reach out before Ramadaan ends. Mending relationships is spiritually and emotionally enriching, and breaking family ties is a grave sin. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam said, “Rahim (family ties) is a word derived from Allah’s special quality, Ar Rahmaan (The Compassionate One). Allah says: ‘I shall keep connection with the one who maintains you and sever connection with him who severs you.’” (Sahih Bukhari) 9) Set post Ramadaan resolutions This is the best month of the year, and the best time to change and stay changed. Let us make those resolutions now. 10) What have I planned for the day of Eid? If I commit any sin on Eid day, then what does it say about my Ramadaan? Will I dress is an Islamic manner? Will I avoid intermingling with non Mahram cousins and friends? This will determine if I really made a sincere and firm intention to change this Ramadaan. It’s time to think, evaluate and plan ahead. Let’s step into Shawaal a changed person. Insha’Allah. Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

We live in a world of import and export, a world in which most goods and commodities are available in most countries for most of the year. However, despite the year-round availability, there are many goods that enjoy a ‘peak season’. Astute businessmen are those who identify this period and utilize it to their advantage. A Golden Opportunity The season presents a golden opportunity for one to secure tremendous profits in a minimal period of time. Hence, during the month of December, even if the rest of the world is on vacation, it is practically unimaginable for one to find the serious businessman on holiday. He understands the pivotal role that the season plays in his success; if he remains focused and committed, he will reap the profits, and if he allows himself to become distracted or while away his time, he alone will suffer the consequences. The Season of Taqwa Just as other things have a special season; taqwa also has a special season – the month of Ramadaan. From fasting during the day to performing Taraaweeh during the night, the entire month has been specially designed to assist a believer in harvesting a bumper crop of fruit, from the tree of taqwa, which he will continue to enjoy long after the blessed month has expired. However, just as with other seasons, this will only be possible if one avails himself for this blessed month and expends all his energies in striving to secure the bargains it has on offer. More than Money If the shop owner arrives at work two hours late, he will regret the business that he lost and lament the money that he could have made. For every minute of the two hours, he could have been serving customers and turning the numbers. We often hear the adage ‘time is money’. However, contrary to popular belief, time is NOT money — it is far more valuable than money. Whereas money can always be later recovered if lost, time can never be recovered — and it is for this reason that time is our single greatest asset. In the race to secure the rewards of Ramadaan, it is those who are particular regarding their time that profit the most. Destructive Distractions In this regard, along with the ready-made opportunities to benefit are a host of ready-made distractions. After - Taraaweeh braais, meeting friends for a chat, an ‘Eid bargain-hunting’ excursion – these are all seemingly innocent activities. However, when thoroughly scrutinized, we realize that the braai ‘burnt’ two or three hours of our time, whereas a normal supper would have been concluded in a maximum of thirty minutes. The excursion to purchase ‘Eid-goods at the best prices may have saved us a few valuable rands but undoubtedly cost us invaluable hours and minutes. Media ‘Mania’ In the opinion of many, the uncrowned yet undisputed champion of ‘killing time’ is social media in all its various guises and forms. Whether in the masjid, while attending a program for spiritual upliftment, or at the time of sehri when du‘aas are accepted – instead of maximizing and benefiting from these opportunities, there are many who become Media ‘Maniacs’ and wile away the irrecoverable moments on their smart phones. For this purpose, just as we fast by shunning food and drink from dawn to sunset, let us make a resolution to ‘fast’ from all forms of media for all the 24 hours of every day in the Month of Ramadhan. We should initiate a complete ’fast’ from all these time-consumers during this blessed period and afterwards as well. Thus let us make this Ramadaan very profitable by correctly investing the capital of time that we have been blessed with. Insha-Allah we will reap the rewards in this world and the Hereafter. alhaadi.org.za

Ramadan (& Fasting) – Life With Allah

Jazaakallaah. His statements on ethnically cleansing Gaza has put Gaza in a precarious position! Its green light to the evil oppressor of israhell whose disgusting grin while trump made his disgusting statements was unbearable

There was once a teacher who asked the students, “What do you want to be in life?” The children gave varying replies, typically ranging from ‘doctor’, to ‘lawyer’, to ‘accountant’ etc. However, from all the answers given, there was one answer that really stood out, an answer that the teacher had never heard before. The child spontaneously replied, “I want to be a Sahaabi”. Obviously, nobody can become a Sahaabi, but what this ‘career choice’ said about the child is that he aspired to be LIKE the illustrious Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum). While the other children were impressed with the lifestyle and wealth of doctors and lawyers, he identified with the beautiful qualities of the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum), such as their piety, generosity, love for Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), disinterest in the world, loyalty to Islam, etc. and he wished to follow in their footsteps. How proud his parents must have been to hear that he gave this amazing answer! Now, the question is, “What was it in the life of this child that moulded his mindset and prompted him to give this response?” The answer … It was the effort of his parents at home. As parents, we chart the course of our children’s lives, give them direction, instill values in them and place them on the paths that they will follow. Let us ask ourselves, “What course are we charting for them, and what values are we instilling in them?” Generally, from the tender age of six, the child is already enrolled into a school, and his schooling career lasts for a whole twelve years. At 190 school days a year, and seven hours a day, that equates to almost 16 000 hours spent in school! All this time spent in school is for one purpose – to one day enjoy a successful career and earn a lot of money. Now, let us compare that to the amount of time dedicated to a child’s Deeni education. If the madrasah year is also 190 days, and the maktab session lasts for two hours, and the average child attends the maktab for five years (if he even attends punctually for the full period), this equates to a paltry 1 900 hours in comparison. Worryingly, it is in this meagre amount of time that the child is expected to learn the entire Deen on which his eternal success depends. This disparity is obviously a major problem… This problem is compounded when the parents, directly or indirectly, ‘teach’ the children that Deen and Deeni education is unimportant and insignificant. For example, most parents will seldom allow their children to ‘bunk’ (remain absent from) school, yet frequently allow them to bunk madrasah. Likewise, many children miss madrasah due to studying for school exams, yet a child has perhaps never missed school due to studying for madrasah exams. In some cases, the parents themselves encourage the children to remain absent from madrasah, in favour of some extracurricular activity such as sport or tuition. How lamentable that even kicking a ball is given preference to learning the Word of Allah Ta‘ala! In essence, the child is taught that Deen is absolutely unimportant, as making money and living luxuriously is the goal in life. If our children are acquiring a school education, there must be an accompanying effort, from the parents, for the Imaan and Deeni education and security of the children. In order to achieve this, due importance must be shown to the Maktab Madrasah, and there must be a strong environment of Deen in the home (through making ta’leem, reciting the Sunnah Duas, teaching good manners and respect, performing all Salaah, etc.). If this is done correctly, then throughout the child’s life, whenever there is a clash between his material interest and Deeni interest, he will make the correct choice and remain loyal to Allah Ta‘ala – safeguarding his entry into Jannah. Remember, a child can be born a Muslim, but not born a Jannati, as Jannah has to be earned. Just as we prepare our children to earn a living, let us ensure that we prepare them to earn Jannah. UswatulMuslimah

By Moulana Muhammad Ibn Haroon In a captivating style, the Nabi of Allah (ﷺ) offered the following priceless counsel to his devoted servant, Sayyiduna Anas (رضي الله عنه). Sayyiduna Anas ibn Malik (رضي الله عنه) reports that Rasulullah (ﷺ) arrived in Madinah when I was a young eight-year-old. My Mother took me by my hand to him and said: “O Messenger of Allah, every man and woman of Madinah has presented you with a gift. I have nothing else to offer besides this child of mine. Please accept him as your servant for all your needs.” I served the Messenger of Allah (ﷺ) for ten years. During this time he never beat me, abuse or even scold at me. He never gave me an angry look. The first advice he gave me was:“O my son! Keep my secrets confidential, and you will become a true believer.” Sayyiduna Anas (رضي الله عنه) says: “I never disclosed the secrets of Rasulullah (ﷺ) to anyone, despite the requests of my mother and the wives of Rasulullah (ﷺ).” He also told me: “O my son! Be thorough in your Wudhu and the two angels (who are recording your deeds) will love you. Your life will also be increased." O my Son! If you can, then remain in the state of wudu continuously, for if death comes to someone in the state of wudu, he acquires Shahada (the rank of the martyrs). O my son! If you have the ability to constantly send salutations upon me then do so, the angels will beg Allah to forgive you. O my son! Try to offer some (nafl) salah in your home too. O my son! If when you leave your house, you make salam to whichever Muslim you see, you will return home forgiven. O my son! Whenever you enter your house, say salam upon yourself and your family. [This will be a source of Barakah - blessing- for you and them] O my Son! If you are able to spend your day and night without having malice for anybody in your heart, then do so as this will make your hisab (accountability in the court of Allah) easy. O my son! This is my Sunnah. Whoever revives/ loves my Sunnah loves me, and will be with me in Jannah. O my son! If you follow my advice, there will be nothing more beloved to you than death.” (Musnad Abi Ya’la & Al-Mu’jamus Saghir, Majma’uz zawaaid, vol.1 pgs. 271-272)

Name: Abu Umar Hafs bin Sulaiman ibn Mugheerah ibn Abi Dawood Al Asadi Al Kufi Al Bazzaz. Commonly known as Hafs, the student of Imam Asim. He is also his adopted son, being the son of his wife. Birth: 90 A.H. Death: 180 A.H. He was born in Kufa and grew up there. Then he travelled to Baghdad with Imam Asim (rahimahullah). He then travelled to Makkah Mukarramah remaining the neighbor of the Baitullah until he became an Imam of Qiraat and he spent the rest of his life teaching it. This Qiraat is perhaps the most famous Qiraat in the world. Among his students are: Husain ibn Muhammad Al Mirwazi, Amr bin Sabah, Ubaid bin Sabah, Fadl bin Yahya Al Ambari, Abu Shuaib Al Qais and others The Sanad of his Qiraat: Imam Hafs learnt Qiraat from Imam Asim. Imam Asim learnt Qiraat from Abdur Rahman As Sulami who narrates from Hazrat Ali bin Abi Talib (Radiyallahu Anhu) The scholars also praised him. Allamah Zahabi (Rahimahullah said, “He is authentic and strong in the field of Qiraat.” Abu Hisham Ar Rafi (Rahimahullah) said, “Imam Hafs (Rahimahullah) is the most knowledgeable in the Qiraat of Imam Asim (Rahimahullah)….” Ibnul Munadi (Rahimahullah) said, “He recited to Imam Asim (Rahimahullah) many times and is the foremost of his students …” And Allah Ta'ala Knows Best darulihsan