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Advice to a Young Cancer Patient Answered by Sidi Abdullah Anik Misra Question: I know a sister who has cancer and she is young. What advice do you have and how should she deal with this illness? Answer: In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious Most Merciful, As salamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakatuh, Thank you for your question. I ask Allah Most High to send his healing and blessings upon our sister who has this illness, and upon all our ailing brothers and sisters in this world. The first thing is to understand the reality of life and its temporary nature. It must be put into perspective against our ultimate return and eternal life with our Most Loving Creator. Then, to see this illness as a test placed in our life that reminds us of our purpose here, and brings out the best of us as believers. For a believer, it is a source of reward and forgiveness. After understanding this reality, we should take every worldly means to overcome our trials, while staying positive and productive throughout. Then, we should be try to be content with what has happened, and what we cannot change, all the while putting our trust in Allah. It cannot be stressed enough to think positively- about Allah, yourself and life. Putting Life Into Perspective The first thing the person should realize is the reality of this life. For each and every one of us, not just those who are sick, we must remember that life is temporary and limited. Allah Most High created us and gave us all a specified lifespan that cannot be decreased or increased in the slightest by our actions alone, though we take the means to try. The point of life is to return to our Creator in the best state possible, through living a life of faith with a sound heart and good works. Experiencing some type of loss or difficulty is often the way Allah Most High brings our attention back to this fact. These illnesses or losses, then, are just a test. They don’t necessarily imply that someone is bad, or cursed or being punished. When these tests come, will we understand their purpose, and realign our hearts with the ultimate goal, or will we continue to be heedless? Allah Most High says in the Qur’an: “Do you expect to enter Paradise without being tested, like those before you [were]?” [Qur’an 2:214] Allah also says: “And We will most certainly test you until we know which amongst you are those who strive and those who are patient, and so We can bring out your true qualities [whether obedient or sinful, etc].” [Qur’an 47:31] However, these tests will pass. Those who accept this sooner often fare better through the challenges they face, in that they do not succumb to excessive fear, depression or despair due to the worldly events around them. This does not mean one has to be morbid in any way however. Everything in a Believer’s Life is Good The good news is, for the believer, everything that happens in their life is good for them, as long as they deal with the events in their life with the correct outlook. Our beloved Prophet Muhammed (peace and blessings be upon him) said, in wonder at the affair of a believer: “Truly, [the believer’s] entire affair [ie. all events in his life] is good. And it isn’t that way [ie. entirely good] for anyone except a believer. If some happy event occurs with him, he gives thanks [for it, to Allah], and [his doing so] is good for him. And if some harmful event affects him, he is patient [with it], and [his doing so] is good for him.” [Muslim] The Prophet [peace and blessings be upon him] said: “Nothing affects a Muslim, whether fatigue or illness or stressful worry or grief or injury or deep sadness – not even a thorn that pricks him- except that Allah covers up his sins through it.” [bukhari and Muslim] So, by being patient and content with Allah’s decree, the sickness actually becomes a cause for earning rewards from Allah Most High. Take the Best Means AND Put Your Trust in Allah It is from the sunnah of our beloved Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) to take the best of means. When he was ill, he himself took medicine and sought treatment, and told others to do the same. He (peace be upon him) said that “indeed, for every sickness, there is a treatment… so when the treatment correctly addresses the sickness, a person is cured- by the permission of Allah.” [Muslim] Thus, one’s hope should be in Allah and not on the medicine which one takes. It is important to remain engaged in good works. Learn and recite the dua’s that have been recorded in the Qur’an and the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him), as well as the famous litanies for healing written by the great spiritual masters of the Islamic tradition. One should also give optional charity as much as possible, read the Qur’an and make the dhikr of Allah. Also, supplications are best answered when a person removes as much of the unlawful elements in one’s life as possible. This includes leaving sins, and only eating, earning, and wearing what is lawful and wholesome. It also means looking at the debts one has to Allah, in the form of missed prayers, fasts or charity, as well as the things that are owed to people, and working to fulfill those obligations with a plan in place. It is important to note however, that some people take on a religious lifestyle and its works only for the purpose of getting the outcome they want. If they don’t get it, they feel let down or disillusioned with Allah. This means that they have missed the point about why we worship Allah- it’s not about earning outcomes. Nothing and no one can force Allah’s will by any amount of righteousness, nor expect that they deserve anything. Rather, by increasing in good works, one should understand that they are worshipping Allah because He alone deserves to be worshipped, and that they want to improve themselves for His sake, and knowing that whatever the outcome is, Allah will give them what is best for them whether we see the immediate benefit or not. Staying Positive and Staying Productive Finally, the person should stay positive and think well of Allah. Allah Most High is quoted in a hadith as saying, “I am to My servant the way he expects me to be towards him. And I am with him when he remembers Me.” [bukhari] Allah Most High loves us seventy times more than our own mothers. A Muslim is an optimist at all times, seeing some good in every situation. A person who is sick should never fall into despondency or depression, and stop pursuing their goals in life, to the extent possible. They should continue learning and improving themselves and their world around them with dedication and excellence. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said that if while a person is planting a sapling, the Day of Judgment suddenly seems to erupt on the earth, to carry on and finish planting the tree [Musnad Ahmad], since one never knows what will actually happen, and what benefit they can bring to the world. I ask Allah Ta’ala to grant this sister and all those who are ailing in the Ummah of our master Muhammad (sal Allahu a’alaihi wasallam) ease, healing, blessings and forgiveness of sins. Below is a good answer for supplications when one is sick: Prophetic Supplications to Cure Illnesses Wasalam, Abdullah Anik Misra Checked & Approved by Faraz Rabbani Source

A British Woman on a Mission Sidra Khan reports on Aisha Bhutta's bid to convert the world to Islam The Guardian Newspaper, London Thursday 8th May 1997 Aisha Bhutta, also known as Debbie Rogers, is serene. She sits on the sofa in big front room of her tenement flat in Cowcaddens, Glasgow. The walls are hung with quotations from the Koran, a special clock to remind the family of prayer times and posters of the Holy City of Mecca. Aisha's piercing blue eyes sparkle with evangelical zeal, she smiles with a radiance only true believers possess. Her face is that of a strong Scots lass - no nonsense, good-humoured - but it is carefully covered with a hijab. For a good Christian girl to convert to Islam and marry a Muslim is extraordinary enough. Butmore than that, she has also converted her parents, most of the rest of her family and at least 30 friends and neighbours. Her family were austere Christians with whom Rogers regularly attended Salvation Army meetings. When all the other teenagers in Britain were kissing their George Michael posters goodnight, Rogers had pictures of Jesus up on her wall. And yet she found that Christianity was not enough; there were too many unanswered questions and she felt dissatisfied with the lack of disciplined structure for her beliefs. "There had to be more for me to obey than just doing prayers when I felt like it." Aisha had first seen her future husband, Mohammad Bhutta, when she was 10 and regular customer at the shop, run by his family. She would see him in the back, praying. "There was contentment and peace in what he was doing. He said he was a Muslim. I said: What's a Muslim?". Later with his help she began looking deeper into Islam. By the age of 17, she had read the entire Koran in Arabic. "Everything I read", she says, "was making sense." She made the decision to convert at16. "When I said the words, it waslike a big burden I had been carrying on my shoulders had been thrown off. I felt like a new-born baby." Despite her conversion however, Mohammed's parents were against their marrying. They saw her as a Western woman who would lead their eldestson astray and give the family a bad name; she was, Mohammed's father believed, "the biggest enemy." Nevertheless, the couple married in the local mosque. Aisha wore a dress hand-sewn by Mohammed's mother and sisters who sneaked into the ceremony against the wishes of his father who refused to attend. It was his elderly grandmother who paved the way for a bond between thewomen. She arrived from Pakistan where mixed-race marriages were evenmore taboo, and insisted on meeting Aisha. She was so impressed by thefact that she had learned the Koran and Punjabi that she convinced the others; slowly, Aisha, now 32, became one of the family. Aisha's parents, Michael and Marjory Rogers, though did attend the wedding, were more concerned with the clothes their daughter was now wearing (the traditional shalwaar kameez) and what the neighbours would think. Six years later, Aisha embarked on a mission to convert them and the rest of her family, bar her sister ("I'm still working on her). "My husband and I worked on my mum and dad, telling them about Islam and they saw the changes in me, like I stopped answering back!" Her mother soon followed in her footsteps. Marjory Rogers changed her name to Sumayyah and became a devout Muslim. "She wore the hijab anddid her prayers on time and nothing ever mattered to her except her connections with God. " Aisha's father proved a more difficult recruit, so she enlisted the helpof her newly converted mother (who has since died of cancer). "My mumand I used to talk to my father about Islam and we were sitting in the sofa in the kitchen one day and he said: "What are the words you saywhen you become a Muslim?" "Me and my mum just jumped on top of him." Three years later, Aisha's brother converted "over the telephone - thanks to BT", then his wife and children followed, followed by her sister's son. It didn't stop there. Her family converted, Aisha turned her attentionto Cowcaddens, with its tightly packed rows of crumbling, gray tenement flats. Every Monday for the past 13 years, Aisha has held classes in Islam for Scottish women. So far she has helped to convert over 30. The women come from a bewildering array of backgrounds. Trudy, a lecturer at the University of Glasgow and a former Catholic, attended Aisha's classes purely because she was commissioned to carry out some research. But after six months of classes she converted, deciding that Christianity was riddled with "logical inconsistencies". "I could tell she was beginning to be affected by the talks", Aisha says. How could she tell? "I don't know, it was just a feeling." The classes include Muslim girls tempted by Western ideals and need ingsalvation, practicing Muslim women who want an open forum for discussion denied them at the local male-dominated mosque, and those simply interested in Islam. Aisha welcomes questions. "We cannot expect people blindly to believe." Her husband, Mohammad Bhutta, now 41, does not seem so driven to convert Scottish lads to Muslim brothers. He occasionally helps out in the family restaurant, but his main aim in life is to ensure the couple's five children grow up as Muslims. The eldest, Safia, "nearly 14, alhumidlillah (Praise be to God!)", is not averse to a spot of recruiting herself. One day she met a woman in the street and carried her shopping, the woman attended Aisha's classes and is now a Muslim. "I can honestly say I have never regretted it", Aisha says of her conversion to Islam. "Every marriage has its ups and downs and sometimes you need something to pull you out of any hardship. But the Prophet Peace by upon him, said: 'Every hardship has an ease.' So when you're going through a difficult stage, you work for that ease to come." Mohammed is more romantic: "I feel we have known each other for centuries and must never part from one another. According to Islam, you are not just partners for life, you can be partners in heaven as well, for ever. Its a beautiful thing, you know." Source: islamfortoday.com

Aminah Assilmi (1945 - 2010), an energetic caller to Islam who traveled around the nation giving lectures and inspiring other, and President of the International Union of Muslim Women once said: “I am so very glad that I am a Muslim. Islam is my life. Islam is the beat of my heart. Islam is the blood that courses through my veins. Islam is my strength. Islam is my life so wonderful and beautiful. Without Islam I am nothing, and should Allah ever turn His magnificent face from me, I could not survive” Sister Aminah died in a car accident in the early morning of March 5, 2010, outside of Newport, Tenn. She was returning with her son from a speaking engagement in New York. Her son, who was injured in the accident, was taken to a hospital in Knoxville. She was 65. . To Allah we belong and to Allah we will return. The following write-up is excerpted from a longer write-up on Sister Aminah’s biography. -- TML It all started with a computer glitch. She was a Southern Baptist girl, a radical feminist, and a broadcast journalist. She was a girl with an unusual caliber, who excelled in school, received scholarships, ran her own business, and were competing with professionals and getting awards – all these while she was going to college. Then one day a computer error happened that made her take up a mission as a devout Christian. Eventually, however, it resulted into something opposite and changed her life completely around. It was 1975 when for the first time computer was used to pre-register for a class in her college. She was working on her degree on Recreation. She pre-registered for a class and then went toOklahoma City to take care of a business. Her return was delayed and she came back to college two weeks into the class. Making up the missed work was no problem for her, but she was surprised to find that the computer mistakenly registered her for a Theatre class, a class where students would be required to perform in front of others. She was a very reticent girl and she was horrified to think about performing in front of others. She could not drop the class for it was too late. Failing the class was also not a choice, for she was receiving a scholarship that was paying for her tuition and receiving an ‘F’ would have jeopardized it. Advised by her husband, she went to her teacher to work out some other alternative to performing, such as preparing costumes, etc. Assured by the teacher that he would try to help her, she went to the next class and was shocked by what she saw. The class was full of Arabs and “camel jockeys”. That was enough for her. She came back home and decided not to go back to the class anymore. It was not possible for her to be in the middle of Arabs. “There was no way I was going to sit in a room full of dirty heathens!” Her husband was calm as usual. He pointed out to her that God has a reason for everything and that she should think about more before quitting. Besides, there was the scholarship that was paying her tuition. She went behind locked doors for 2 days to think about. When she came out, she decided to continue the class. She felt that God gave her a task to convert the Arabs into Christianity. Thus she found herself with a mission to accomplish. Throughout the class, she would be discussing Christianity with her Arab classmates. “I proceeded to explain to them how they would burn in the fires of hell for all eternity, if they did not accept Jesus as their personal savior. They were very polite, but did not convert. Then, I explained how Jesus loved them and had died on the cross to save them from their sins. All they had to do was accept him into their hearts.” They still did not convert, and so she decided to do something else: “I decided to read their own book to show to them that Islam was a false religion and Mohammed was a false Prophet”. At her request, one student gave her a copy of the Qur’an and another book on Islam. With these two books she started on her research, which she was to continue for the next one and half years. She read the Qur’an fully and another fifteen books on Islam. Then she came back to the Qur’an and re-read it. During her research, she started taking notes that she found objectionable and which she would be able to use to prove that Islam was a false religion. Unconsciously, however, she was changing from within which did not escape the attention of her husband. “I was changing, just in little ways but enough to bother him. We used to go to the bar every Friday and Saturday, or to a party, and I no longer wanted to go. I was quieter and more distant.” She stopped drinking and eating pork. Her husband suspected her of having an affair with another man, for “it was only for a man that a woman changes”. Ultimately, she was asked to leave, and she soon found herself living in a separate apartment “When I first started to study Islam, I did not expect to find anything that I needed or wanted in my personal life. Little did I know that Islam would change my life. No human could have ever convinced me that I would finally be at peace and overflowing with love and joy because of Islam.” Throughout these times, she continued studying Islam and although she was changing subtly from within, she remained a devout Christian. Then one day, there was a knock on her door. It was a man in traditional Muslim robe, who appeared to her as a “man in a long white night gown with a red and white checkered table cloth on his head”. His name was Abdul-Aziz Al-Sheik and he was accompanied by three other men in similar dress. She was very offended by Muslim men coming to her in nightgowns and pajamas. She was further shocked when Abdul-Aziz told her that he understood that she waited to be a Muslim. She replied that she was a Christian and she did not have any plan to become a Muslim. However, she had some questions to ask if they had the time. At her invitation, they came inside. She now brought up the questions and objections that she noted down while she was researching. “I will never forget his name”, she said of Abdul-Aziz who proved to be a very patient and soft-mannered person. “He was very patient and discussed every question with me. He never made me feel silly or that a question was stupid.” Abdul-Aziz listened to every question and objection and explained it within the proper context. “He explained that Allah had told us to seek knowledge and questions were one of the ways to accomplish that. When he explained something, it was like watching a rose open – petal by petal, until it reached its full glory. When I told him that I did not agree with something and why, he always said I was correct up to a point. Then he would show me how to look deeper and from different directions to reach a fuller understanding.” It would not be long before she would externally submit to what she had already been submitting to internally during the last one and half years. Later in that same day, this Southern Baptist girl would declare in front of Abdul-Aziz and his companions: “I bear witness that there is no god but God and Mohammed is His Messenger.” It was May 21, 1977. Conversion to Islam, or to any other religion for that matter, is not always a simple thing to do. Except for a few fortunate ones, a new Muslim usually face consequences. The convert may face isolation from family and friends, if not pressure to go back to the family faith. Sometimes, a convert may even face sever economic hardship, as in the case of those who are asked to leave the house because of converting to Islam. Some converts are fortunate to continue to be well respected by family and friends, but most of them face minor to severe hardship especially during the first few years after the conversion. But the difficulty that Aminah Assilimi had to go through and the sacrifice that she had to make for the sake of her conviction and faith is almost unheard of. There are few who could rely so much on Allah as she did, standing firm and meeting the challenges, making sacrifices, and yet maintaining a positive posture and influencing people around with the beauty of what she found and believed in. She lost most of her friends, for she was “no fun anymore”. Her mother did not accept her becoming a Muslim and hoped that it was a temporary zeal and that she would soon grow out of it. Her “mental health expert” sister thought that she lost her mind. She attempted to put her in a mental health institution. Her father was a calm and wise man. People would come to him for advice and he could comfort anyone in distress. But when he heard that his daughter became a Muslim, he loaded his double-barrel shotgun and started on his way to kill her. “It is better that she be dead rather than suffering in the deepest of Hell”, he said. She was now without friends and without family. She soon started wearing hijab. The day she put it on, she was denied her job. She was now without family, friends, and job. But her greatest sacrifice was yet to come. She and her husband both loved each other very much. But while she was studying Islam, her husband misunderstood her for her apparent changes. She became quieter and stopped going to the bar. Her changes were visible to him and he suspected her of having affair with another man, for whom she must have been changing. She could not explain to him what was happening.“There was no way to make him understand what was changing me because I did not know.”Eventually he asked her to leave and she started living separately. After she openly accepted Islam, it went worse. A divorce was now inevitable. This was a time when Islam was little known, much less understood for what it is. She had two little children whom she loved dearly and whose custody should have rightfully be given to her. But in a grave violation of justice, she was denied their custody just because she became a Muslim. Before giving the formal verdict, the judge offered her a harsh choice: either renounce Islam and get custody of the children, or keep Islam and leave the children. She was given 20 minutes to make a decision. She loved her children very dearly. It is perhaps the worst nightmare that a mother can have: asked to willfully leave her child - not for one day, month, or year, but forever. On the other hand, how could she keep the Truth away from her children and live as a hypocrite? “It was the most painful 20 minutes in my life”, she said in an interview. Those of us who are mothers and fathers, especially of young children, little imagination is needed to feel the pain and torment that she must have passed every second in those 20 minutes. What added further to her pain was that according to doctors, she could never bear another child because of certain complications. “I prayed like I had never done before … I knew that there was no safer place for my children to be than in the hands of Allah. If I denied Him, there would be no way in the future to show my children the wonders of being with Allah.” She decided to retain Islam. Her two dear children – one little boy and one little girl – were taken away from her and given to her ex-husband. For a mother, is there a sacrifice greater than this – a sacrifice that is done for no material reason but only for faith and conviction? “I left the court knowing that life without my babies would be very difficult. My heart bled, even though I knew, inside, I had done the right thing” . She found comfort in the following verse of the Qur’an:There is no god but He,-the Living, the Self-subsisting, Eternal. No slumber can seize Him nor sleep. His are all things in the heavens and on earth. Who is there can intercede in His presence except as He permitteth? He knoweth what (appeareth to His creatures as) before or after or behind them. Nor shall they compass aught of His knowledge except as He willeth. His Throne doth extend over the heavens and the earth, and He feeleth no fatigue in guarding and preserving them for He is the Most High, the Supreme (in glory). (Quran 2: 255) Perhaps the air of Colorado was too thin for justice. Or perhaps there was a plan in Allah’s greater scheme of affairs. Aminah Assilimi later fought back and took her case to the media. Although she did not get custody of her children again, a change was made in the Colorado law that one cannot be denied child custody on the basis of his or her religion. Indeed Allah’s love and mercy engulfed her so much that, as if, she has been granted the touchstone of Islam. Wherever she goes, people are touched by her beautiful words and Islamic manners and become Muslim. By accepting Islam, she became a changed person, and a much better person. So much so that her family, relatives, and people around her started appreciating her mannerism and the faith that brought about such changes in her. Despite her family’s initial reaction, she remained in touch with them and addressed them with respect and humility, just as the Qur’an enjoins the Muslims to do. She would send cards to her parents on different occasions, but she would always write down a verse from the Qur’an or the Hadith without mentioning the source of such beautiful words of wisdom. It was not long before she started making a positive influence among her family members. The first to become Muslim was her grand mother. She was over 100 years old. Soon after accepting Islam, she died. “The day she pronounced Shahada, all her misdeeds had been erased, while her good deeds were preserved. She died so soon after accepting Islam that I knew her “book” was bound to be heavy on the good side. It fills me with such a joy!” Next to become Muslim was her father, the one who wanted to kill her after she became Muslim. Thus he brought alive the story of Umar ibn Khattab. Umar was a companion of the Prophet (peace be on him) who persecuted the early Muslims before he converted to Islam. When he heard one day that his sister became a Muslim, he went out with an open sword to kill her. But upon hearing some of the verses from the Qur’an that his sister was reciting, he recognized the truth and went straight to the Prophet and accepted Islam. Two years after she (Assilmi) accepted Islam, her mother called and said that she appreciated her faith and hoped that she would keep it. Couple of years later, she called again and asked her about what one would need to do to become a Muslim. Assilmi replied that one had to believe that there is only One God and Muhammad was his Messenger. “Any fool knows that. But what do you have to do?”, she asked again. She replied that if that is what she believed, then she was already a Muslim! At this, her mother said, “Well … OK. But let’s not tell your father just yet”. She was not aware that her husband (Assilmi’s step father) had the same conversation with her a few weeks earlier. Thus the two lived together as Muslims for years in secret without knowing that the other was also a Muslim. Her sister who wanted to put her in mental institution accepted Islam as well. She must have realized that becoming Muslim is indeed the most healthy and sound thing to do. Her son, upon becoming adult, accepted Islam. When he turned 21, he called her and said that he wanted to become a Muslim. Sixteen years after the divorce, her ex-husband also accepted Islam. He said that he had been watching her for sixteen years and wanted his daughter to have the same religion that she had. He came to her and apologized for what he had done. He was a very nice gentlemen and Assilimi had forgiven him long ago. Perhaps the greatest reward for her was yet to come. Assilmi later married another person, and despite the doctors’ verdict that she could never conceive another child, Allah blessed her with a beautiful boy. If Allah Subhanahu wa ta’ala makes a gift to someone, who can prevent Him? It was truly a wonderful blessing from Allah Subhanahu wa ta’ala, and so she named him Barakah. The sacrifice that Assilmi made for the sake of Allah Subhanahu wa ta’ala was tremendous. And so Allah Subhanahu wa ta’ala turned in mercy to her and rewarded her with enormous blessings. Her family discarded her after she accepted Islam, and now by Allah’s mercy, most of them are Muslim. She lost her friends because of Islam, and now she is being loved by so many. “Friends who loved came out of nowhere”, she said. Allah’s blessings came upon her so much that wherever she goes people are touched by the beauty of Islam and accept the Truth. Both Muslims and non-Muslims now come to her for advice and counseling. She lost her job because of wearing hijab, and now she is the President of the International Union of Muslim Women. She delivers lectures nationwide and is on high demand. It was her organization that successfully lobbied for the “Eid Stamp” and had it approved by the United States Postal Service, but it took many years of work. She is now working on making the Eid Day as a national holiday. She has tremendous trust on Allah’s love and mercy and she never looses faith on Him. She was once diagnosed with cancer some years ago. Doctors said that it was in an advanced stage and that she would live for another year. But her faith in Allah Subhanahu wa ta’ala remained strong. “We must all die. I was confident that the pain I was experiencing contained blessings.” As a brilliant example of how much one can love Allah, she mentions about a friend of her named Kareem Al-Misawi who died of cancer when he was in his 20’s: “Shortly before he died, he told me that Allah was truly Merciful. This man was in unbelievable anguish and was radiating with Allah’s love. He said: “Allah intends that I should enter heaven with a clean book.” His death experience gave me something to think about. He taught me of Allah’s love and mercy.” All praise is due to Allah, she continues to live in good health. She now thinks that having cancer was the greatest blessing that she ever had. Source: famousmuslims.com

The Four Imams: Information Sheet taken from www.ask-imam.com IMAM ABU HANIFA (ra) Nu'man bin Thabit ibn Zauti,- well known in Islamic History as 'Imam Abu Hanifa' and 'Imam Azam' - was the son of a Persian merchant. He was born in Kufa, Iraq - in the Year 80 A.H. His father - Thabit - was privileged to meet Hazrat Ali (ra) who had at the time, made Kufa his capital. Kufa was founded in 17 A.H. by Hazrat Umar ibn Khattab (ra) the 2nd Khalif. Kufa had become the 3rd most important centre of learning during Hazrat Umar's (ra) Khilafat. A large number of Sahaba (ra) were sent to this new city to settle here by Umar (ra). These included Hazrat Abdulla ibn Ma'sood, Sa'd ibn Abi Waqqas, Ammar, Huzaifa & Abu Moosa etc. (ra). Records indicate the presence of 1050 Sahaba in Kufa of whom 24 were the participants of Badr. At the age of 20, Imam Abu Hanifa turned his attention towards the pursuit of advancing his Islamic knowledge. Among his 1st and the most important tutors was Imam Hammad (Died 120 A.H.) whose educational lineage is linked with Hazrat Abdulla Ibn Mas'ood (ra). Imam Abu Hanifa is also a Tabi'ee = One who saw and benefited from at least one Sahabi. Imam Abu Hanifa benefited from nearly 4,000 Shaikhs. In those days, the Hajj season was the best means of spreading and deriving Islamic knowledge as Muslims from every corner of the Islamic world assembled in Makka. In his lifetime Imam Abu Hanifa is reputed to have performed fifty Hajj. Imam Abu Hanifa (ra) had joined his father's business wherein he showed scrupulous honesty and fairness. Once his agent had sold a consignment of silk cloth on his behalf but forgot to mention a slight defect to the customers. When Abu Hanifa learnt of this, he was greatly distressed because he had no means of the refunding the customers; so he immediately ordered the entire proceeds of the sale ( 30,000 Dirhams ) to be given in charity. The Imam was also keenly interested in education. He established a school at Kufa, which later became a famous College of Theology. Here he delivered lectures on Islamic Law and related subjects. Fiqah or Islamic Law was systematically studied by his students under his expert guidance. A large number of his devoted and highly intelligent students worked under him for 30 years, and it is the labour of these students that gave us the Hanafi School of thought. Imam Abu Hanifa (ra) was the 1st of the Imams to advocate the use of "reason" in the consideration of religious questions based on the Qur'an and Sunnah. He was also the 1st Imam to arrange all the subjects of Islamic Law systematically. His most important work is the Kitab-ul-Aasaar which was compiled by his students - Imam Abu Yusuf and Imam Muhammad. In {164 A.H.} 763 A.C. Al-Mansoor - the Banu Abbas Khalifa of the Muslim Empire at Baghdad whose capital was Baghdad - offered Imam Sahib the post of Chief Qazi of the state, but the Imam declined to accept the post and chose to remain independent. In his reply to Al-Mansoor, the Imam excused himself by saying that he did not regard himself fit for the post offered. Al-Mansoor, who had his own ideas and reasons for offering the post, lost his temper and accused the Imam of lying. "If I am lying," the Imam said, "then my statement is doubly correct. "How can you appoint a liar to the exalted post of a Chief Qazi?" Incensed by this reply, Al-Mansoor charged the Imam with contempt, had him arrested and locked in prison. Even in prison, the Imam continued to teach those who were permitted to come to him. It was here in prison that the Imam was administered a dose of poison in 150 A.H. Realizing that the end was near, the Imam prostrated in prayer and passed away in this condition in the month of Rajab, 150 A.H. The news of his death soon spread throughout Baghdad 17. The whole town came out to pay their last homage to the greatest Imam of Islamic Law. More than 50,000 people participated in the first Janaza Salaat. People continued to flock and before the Janaza could be finally taken for burial, the Salaatul Janaza was offered 6 times in all. For days, people came in large numbers to pay their respects at the grave side. Among the four Imams, Abu Hanifa has the largest number of followers even today in all parts of the world {M.A.R.K.}. IMAM MAALIK IBN ANAS (ra) Abu Abdullah Malik ibn Anas ibn Malik ibn Abi Aamir (ra) was born in Madina in the year 93 A.H. (714 A.C) He came from a respectable family. His ancestral home was in Yemen, but his great grandfather - Aamir - settled in Madina after embracing Islam. His grandfather - Maalik - was an important Taabi-ee and a famous reporter of Ahadith. He was greatly attracted to the study of Islamic Law and devoted his entire interest to the subject after completing his primary education. Madina was the most important seat of Islamic learning as the immediate descendants of the Sahaba-e-Kiraam were inhabitants of the City. For the purpose of his study, he sought out over 300 "Tabi'een" = those who saw the Sahaba/Companions of the Holy Prophet (saw), and acquired from them the knowledge of the Holy Prophet's (saw) Ahadith and Sunnah. He spent his entire life in Madina where he studied Fiqah from 95 Shaikhs. It is these Shaikhs from whom he recorded the Ahadith in his Kitab-ul-Muatta. This Kitab contains 1725 Ahadith of Rasulullah (saw). He studied Qira'at & Hadith for nearly ten years under Hazrat Naafe' the slave of Hazrat Abdullah ibn Umar (ra). Hazrat Naafe' had served his master for nearly 30 years. Naafe' was once sent by Umar ibn Abdul Aziz (ra) to impart knowledge in Egypt. Although he is the author of numerous books, his most important work is the Kitab-ul-Muatta, which deals with the subject of Islamic Law based on Ahadith and Sunnah. The Kitab-ul-Muatta is the earliest surviving book of its kind - written around 150 A.H. - and it is used in all Islamic institutions as one of the text books in the final year studies by graduating Ulama. Imam Malik had the highest regard for the Holy Prophet (saw) as well as for his Ahadith. He never tolerated indiscipline whilst Hadith-e-Rasul was under discussion. He even rebuked Al-Mansoor for talking loudly when some Ahadith were being discussed. The Imam always made Wudu or Ghusal, wore fresh clean attire and applied perfume before conducting lessons on Ahadith. He delivered lectures on Islamic Law, and issued fatwas (Islamic Rulings) for nearly 62 years. Approx. 1,300 people have reported Ahadith from him. He had the honour of occupying the home of Hazrat Abdullah ibn Mas'ud (ra) and conducting lessons from the same spot where Rasulullah (saw) spent his time for I'tikaaf, in the Masjid-un-Nabi. Imam Malik was famous for his piety and integrity, and courageously stood up prepared to suffer for his conviction. For example, in 135 A.H., When the governor of Madina demanded and forced people to take the oath of allegiance in favour of Khalifa Al-Mansoor, the Imam issued a Fatwa that such an oath was not binding because it was given under duress. Since this fatwa was not in the interest of the ruler, the governor arrested the Imam and had him publicly flogged for the "crime". Al-Mansoor, learning of this outrage, apologized to the Imam and dismissed the errant governor. Imam Malik (ra), was offered 3,000 gold coins (dinars) by Mansoor, as travelling expenses to Baghdad and subsequent residence in the Capital, but the Imam politely refused the offer saying that he prefered to live in Madina near Rasulullah (saw). Imam Malik never intended the formation of a school of thought bearing his name. It was his disciples & followers who later developed a Fiqah School based on Imam Malik's rulings. Malikis are found mostly in North & West Africa - Tunis, Algeria, Morrocco and Egypt. This Great Leader of Islamic Law died in Madina on the 11th Rabi-ul-Akhir 179 A.H. at the age 86 years. He lies buried in the Jannatul Baqi in Madina. (M.A.R.K.) IMAM MALIK IBN ANAS (ra) - ADDITIONAL FACTS Madina was the most important centre of knowledge as scholars flocked to the City to pay their respects to Rasulullah (saw). The home of Imam Malik too was a centre of Ilm-e-Nabawi. Among his first tutors was Imam-ush-Shua'raa Hazrat Naafe' bin Abdur Rahman (died - 169 A.H.) from whom he mastered the Qur'an. Later, whilst still a youngster he joined the Hadith classes of Naafe'. Physical description: Tall, heavily built, fair but reddish, wide eyes, beautiful nose, very little hair on the forehead, heavy long beard which reached his chest. trimmed moustache above/edge of the lip. He considered the shaver of moustache as Makrooh and a Mussla (disfigurer). He wore expensive clothing and used much Ittar. He wore a silver ring with a stone and engraved was 'Hasbun'Allahu wa Ne'mal Wakeel'. On his door was written 'Maa Sha Allah'. This house originally belonged to Abdulla ibn Mas'ood (ra). He started teaching at the age of 17. It was only after seventy Ulama certified him as an authority, did he commence issuing Fatwa. His seat in the Masjid-e-Nabawi was the same seat that was occupied by Hazrat Umar (ra). He never answered the call of nature within the perimeter of the Haram, except during illness or some Uzar. He never rode during his entire life on an animal in Madina. He used to say, "How can I ride an animal whose feet tramples the ground in which lies resting of the Master (saw). During his advancing years, he never went out of Madina - hoping to be buried therein. During Hadith lessons if anyone raised his voice, he would reprimand him and quote the Qura'nic verse ... adding that the command was applicable even now. IMAM MAALIK IBN ANAS (ra) - POLITICAL ERA During the Khilafat of Mansoor Abbasi, oppression was on the increase. Muhammad Zun-Nafs az-Zakiyah in Madina and his brother Ibrahim in Basra were compelled to raise the flag of rebellion against the the injustice directed mostly towards the Sayeds. Imam Malik issued a fatwa in favour of these two and against the government. 2. This led to his arrest by the governor of Madina and subsequent flogging - seventy lashes. Later when Mansoor learnt of this, he expressed regret and sent an apology to the Imam and requested the Imam to come to Baghdad, but the Imam refused. When Mansoor came for Hajj, he visited Madina as well and treated the Imam with great respect. Haroon ar-Rasheed Haroon ar-Rasheed was a patron of the Ulama. He had great regard for Imam Malik. He personally, with his two sons, journeyed to Madina to listen to the Muatta. He invited the Imam to come to his camp in order to give lessons but the Imam refused. So Haroon brought his sons to the Imam. His death Imam Malik was 86 years and had become quite weak, but he still continued to give lesson and issue fatwas. It was Sunday when he became ill and for the next 22 odd days it got worse. He passed away on the 11 th Rabi-ul-Akhir, 179 A.H. He had taught and issued fatwas for 62 years. IMAM MAALIK IBN ANAS (ra) - ORIGIN OF MALIKI FIQAH The Fuqaha-e-Saba' of Madina are: Saeed ibn Musayyib, Died 94 A.H. Ubaidullah ibn Uttba ibn Mas'ud, Died 98 A.H. Urwa, Died 94 A.H. Qasim ibn Muhammad ibn Abi Bakr, Died 108 A.H. Abu Bakr bin Abdur-Rahman bin Haris ibn Hisham, Died 94 A.H. Sulaiman ibn Yasaar, Died 109 A.H. Kharija Zaid, Died 109 A.H. These 7 were the centre of Ilm-e-Fiqah and Hadith in Madina. Their unanimous ruling was the basis of any verdict in the court of Madina in matters of Fiqah. The basis of Imam Malik's Fiqah and Fatwa originates from this Fiqah of Madina. Allama ibn Qayyim (ra) states that the promotion of Deen, Fiqah, and Ilm in the Ummah is due to the students of Ibn Mas'ud, Zaid bin Thabit, Ibn Umar and Ibn Abbas (ra). Ibn Mas'ud stayed in Madina but was later ordered to reside in Kufa. Therefore the above 7 were instrumental in the promotion of Ilm in Madina. And it is from these persons that the Shaikhs of Imam Malik benefitted, in particular Hazrat Rabi'atur Raai who is the most important Shaikh of Imam Malik (ra). Imam Malik based his rulings in his Fatwas from the Fiqah of the above and this eventually became the "Maliki Fiqah. IMAM SHAFI'EE (ra) Abu Abdullah Muhammad Ibn Idrees Shafi'ee (ra) was a descendant from the Quraish tribe. He is the Only Imam who is related to Rasulullah (saw). Imam Shafi'ee (RAH) was born in Ghazza, Syria in 150 A.H. (765 A.C.) He lost his father during infancy and was raised by his mother under very poor circumstances. He completed Hifz of the Qur'an at the tender age of 7 years, and at the age of 13 memorized the Kitabul-Muatta of Imam Malik (ra). He spent some time among the Beduins outside Makka, to acquire a good knowledge of the Arabic language. At the age of 20, (170 A.H./785 A.C.) he went to Madina and became a student of Imam Malik (ra) who was greatly impressed with the young student who had memorized the Muatta. He stayed with Imam Malik for some time; thereafter he returned to Makka. He also came into contact with other learned men (81 Shaikhs) from all of whom he acquired the knowledge of the Qur'an, Hadith and Sunnah. In 184 A.H./799 A.C., Imam Shafi'ee was arrested and taken to Baghdad to appear before Haroon Ar-Rasheed on "trumped up" charges of treason. It was due to the recommendation of Imam Muhammad (the state Qazi and student of Imam Abu Hanifa) that Imam Shafi'ee was discharged. He was then 34 years old. Imam Shafi'ee remained in Baghdad as a student of Imam Muhammad for over three years to add further to his knowledge of Islamic Law. He returned to Makka where he stayed for 9 years delivering lectures on Islamic Law. It was during this period that Imam Ahmad ibn Hambal came into contact with Imam Shafi'ee. In 199 A.H., he went to Egypt where he was received with much honour and respect. He remained here until his death. Imam Shafi'ee was the author of over 100 books, the most important of which is the Kitab-ul-Umm. It contains the rulings of the Imam on all subjects of Islamic Law. He left behind a large number of dedicated students in Makka, Baghdad and Egypt. The Shafi'ee School of Thought emerged from these students who propagated the views and rulings of the Imam through their writings and preachings. Imam Shafi'ee (ra) never committed a major sin nor spoke a lie, nor did he swallow an unlawful morsel of food in his entire life. He never at any time performed Jumma without Ghusal. He was an extremely generous personality who on numerous occasions gave away all he possessed to the poor and needy. He died in Cairo, Egypt, on Friday evening after Maghrib, 29th Rajab, 204 A.H. (20th Jan, 820 A.C.) after a short illness, at the age of 53-54 years. { M.A.R.K. } IMAM SHAFI'EE (ra) - ADDITIONAL FACTS Abu Abdulla Muhammad ibn Idris ibn Al-Abbas bin Usman bin Shafi'. His ancestry joins the Prophet at Abd Manaaf. His title is 'Naasirun Sunnah'. He was honoured as Al-Imaamul Mujaddid in that he is the Mujaddid of the 2nd century. His birth place is Ghazza/Asqalaan - a place two stages from Jeruselam. He was born in Rajab 150 A.H. He was two years old when his parents moved to Makka and made it their home. His mother was a Yemeni of the famous Bani Azd tribe. His ancestor - Shafi'- was the flag bearer of the Banu Hashim in Badr. He was taken prisoner and released after ransom. Thereafter he embraced Islam. Another report states that he met the Prophet (saw) as a youngster and became a Muslim. However his father - Saa'ib - was the flag bearer..... Imam Shafi'ee completed Hifz at 7 and memorised Muatta at 10 years. At 15 with the permission of his SHAIKH - Muslim bin Khalid Zanji (the Mufti of Makka) - he started issuing fatwas. Earlier he spent his time in Arabic literature and poetry. One day at Mina, he heard a voice behind saying: "Aliaka bil Fiqah" - (GRASP THE FIQAH). Muslim bin Khalid who had noticed his remarkable intelligence, etc., advised him to study Fiqah. He spent three years with the Shaikh, until the age of 13. Later he went to Madina to study under Imam Malik. Besides Imam Malik, he studied Hadith under 81 Shaikhs. In Makka his tutor was Sufyan bin Ainiyyah. Imam Shafi'ee said about these two: "Had it not been for Imam Malik and Sufyan, then Ilm Would not have remained in Hidjaz." He spent 8 months with Imam Malik, then returned to Makka. He came into contact in 184 A.H. with Imam Muhammad - state Qazi - at Baghdad and stayed with him for over 3 years. Taking into account future visits to the Imam, he spent 10 years with Imam Muhammad. Comments: "I never came across a greater Alim of Kitabullah than Imam Muhammad (ra). Imam Muhammad made this comment: [a] The door of Fiqah was shut to the people, Allah opened it because of Shafi'ee. Imam Shafi'ee is the Mujaddid of Deen. Imam Malik made this comment: No Scholar more brilliant than Muhammad ibn Idris Shafi'ee ever came to me as a pupil. Fiqah Shafi'ee The Imam had mastered both Maliki and Hanafi Fiqah. Keeping both before him, he formulated the basis of the Shafi'ee Fiqah. His pupils compiled his works, Fatwas, teachings, etc., and promoted the Shafi'ee School of Fiqah. IMAM AHMAD IBN MUHAMMAD HAMBAL (ra) Abu Abdullah Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn Hambal Shaibani Al-Maruzi was of pure Arab descent whose ancestery joins Hazrat Ebrahim (as). He was born in Baghdad in the month of Rabi-ul-Awwal, 164 A.H. He lost his father when he was only three years old. Baghdad being the Capital of the Muslim State was an important centre of learning during the Banu Abbas Era. Imam Ahmad Hambal (ra) completed Hifz of the Qur'an at an early age. In 180 A.H., when he was 16 years old, he began to persue the knowledge of Ahadith under the Imam Abu Yusuf (the most important pupil of Imam Abu Hanifa (ra)). He stayed with him for 3 years, during which time he recorded so much information, that the volumes filled 3 book shelves. Later he also attended the classes of Imam Muhammad (another prominent pupil of Imam Abu Hanifa (ra)). After accumlating knowledge from numerous scholars in Baghdad, he journeyed to Kufa, Basra, Makka, Madina, Yemen, Syria, Jazira in order to increase his knowledge of Ahadith. After meeting with over a hundred Shaikhs, he is reputed to have made a collection of over a million Ahadith. It was in 187 A.H. that he met Imam Shafi'ee (ra) in Makka for the first time. Later when Imam Shafi'ee came to Baghdad, Imam Hambal also joined him during the Imam's residence here and mastered from him Fiqah. Imam Shafi'ee (ra) too on the other hand relied very much on the knowledge of Ahadith and Sunnah which Imam Ahmad Hambal (ra) possessed. It was in 204 A.H., only after he had reached the age of 40, that Imam Ahmad Hambal (ra) started conducting lessons and delivering lectures. Being a prominent figure, his lectures attracted a huge gathering of at least 5,000 students among whom nearly 500 took down notes daily. Imam Bukhari, Imam Muslim, and Imam Tirmizi (ra) were also amongst his noteworthy students. The Mu'tazila controversy regarding the "immortality and creation of the Qur'an" was the cause of much trial in the life of the Imam, who suffered much over a period of nearly 15 years. The Banu Abbas rulers - Al-Ma'moon and Al-Mu'tasim who were influenced by the Mu'tazila - tried to force the Ulama to accept the Mu'tazila doctrine. Being a devotee of the Sunnah, and an opposer of Bid'at it fell upon the shoulders of Imam Hambal (ra) to oppose this doctrine vigorously. Al-Mu'tasim even ordered the flogging and imprisonment of the Imam for several months. Imam Hambal succumbed to the sufferings rather than deviate from the beliefs and practices of the Sunnah. The sufferings of Imam Hambal ended when Al-Mutawakkil took over as ruler, restored the traditional teachings of Islam and accorded the Imam the honour befitting the great scholar. Among his several works is the Encyclopaedia of Ahadith called Masnad, compiled by his son Abdulla from his lectures, and amplified by references to over 28,000 Ahadith. His other important works include a collection of his fatwas (Islamic rulings on religious matters) - covering over 20 volumes. These fatwas form the basis of the Hambali School of Thought. The Hambalis represent the smallest group in the four Sunni Schools of Fiqah. Imam Hambal (ra) died after a short illness in Baghdad, on Friday evening, 12 Rabi-ul-Awwal, 241 A.H. (855 A.C.) at the age of 77 years. His Janaza Salaat was attended by nearly 1,000,000 people who came to pay their respects to this great scholar of Islam. {M.A.R.K.}

The Value of Humanity in Islām By Hadrat Mawlānā Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullāh Following atrocities committed in the name of Islām, such as those in Paris, once again misconceptions regarding Islām and Muslims make the headlines and infuse tensions in our society. I believe all of us are duty-bound to contribute to efforts that clear these misconceptions and misunderstandings and share the true nature of this beautiful religion. The value of life In light of Islām’s teachings of mercy and tolerance, it is impossible that oppression or the taking of innocent life is permitted in any circumstance. The life of every human, Muslim and non-Muslim, is equally precious and sacred. The value of life is captured in the following verse of the Glorious Qur’ān: ...whoever kills a person not in retaliation for a person killed, nor (as a punishment) for spreading disorder on the earth, is as if he has killed the whole of humankind, and whoever saves the life of a person is as if he has saved the life of the whole of humankind... (5:32) As Muslims, we value human life irrespective of geography, race and gender. We do not distinguish between the poor and the wealthy, women from men, the less able from the able bodied, as a life is a life, hence sacred and precious. Therefore, a loss of life in any corner of the world is a cause of grief and sorrow for every true Muslim. During such moments we pray to Allāh ta‘ālā, the Creator, that He grants everyone guidance and fills this world with peace and security. For those who have suffered loss of life, may Allāh ta‘ālā grant them patience and courage. If families have lost their breadwinner, may Allāh ta‘ālā safeguard them from want and poverty. May Allāh ta‘ālā grant relief to all from oppression and give every human the good fortune to live in peace and prosperity. When the hearts and minds of humans become corrupt, be they Muslims or non-Muslims, then they no longer remain human. In their eyes, the worth of a human life becomes devalued and no thought is given to who is being killed, how many are killed and how the lives of innocent people, children, the elderly and women are destroyed. There is total contempt for humanity. We pray that Allāh ta‘ālā grant those involved in killing innocent people, whether they be individuals, groups or governments, the essence of humanity and the ability to recognise the value of human life. Developing a proper understanding of Islām Following the tragic events in Paris, there is a significant focus on Islām and Muslims. At this juncture I would urge my fellow citizens, Muslims and non-Muslims, to learn the teachings of Islām from practising Muslims with knowledge; not from the media. Those in the mainstream media, have not studied Islām in the correct manner and therefore do not appreciate the sciences of Islām and the relationship between them. Many times they comment on verses of the Qur’ān and Ahādīth which are out of context, as they are unaware of the method of how to interpret them and as a result reach incorrect conclusions and cause confusion. It is unfortunate that non-Muslims and ill-informed Muslims also express views based on their own interpretation, without the appropriate requisite knowledge. This has led to the distortion of Islām resulting in the misconceptions we see today amongst the general public, with regards to Islām and its teachings. I therefore urge all Muslims to study and embrace the teachings of Islām and live their lives according to it. We need to deepen our understanding of the true essence of Islām by benefitting from reliable ‘Ulamā and reading authentic literature. This will enable us to spread the correct message to others and explain the true qualities, attributes and characteristics of Islām. We must also ensure our individual mistakes do not tarnish and distort the image of Islām and Muslims. We must all study Islām to the extent that we are able to present and explain, without any hesitation, the Islāmic point of view regarding topics that are commonly misunderstood by non-Muslims. Bringing a change We also need to bring a positive change in our lives by wholeheartedly turning to Allāh ta‘ālā and repenting sincerely from the disobedience to Allāh ta‘ālā. Not only have we neglected our Dīn on a personal level, we have also not shared its beauty with others; a major negligence on our part. In our current circumstances Tawbah and Istighfār will be extremely beneficial, as it is stated in a hadīth: Whosoever holds fast to Istighfār, Allāh will make for him a way out from every difficulty and will grant him relief from every anxiety and will grant him sustenance from where he expects not. (Abū Dāwūd) Let us refrain from every act of disobedience to Allāh ta‘ālā and become firm on our belief and worship. It is only when we become the personification of Islām through our dealings (mu‘āmalāt), social conduct (mu‘āsharat) and good character (husn akhlāq), that the true merciful and tolerant character of Islām will be observed and appreciated by all. May Allāh ta‘ālā grant us all the tawfīq. Āmīn. © Riyādul Jannah (Volume 24, Issue 12)

Imam Abu Hanifah (Raheemahullah) and the Atheist The story of Abu Hanifa (radi Allahu 'anhu), and his neighbour

Duaa before Sleeping – 4 One should recite the following duaa before going to sleep: اللَّهُمَّ بِاسْمِكَ أَمُوتُ وَ أَحْيَى O Allah. It is only with Your name do I die and live. عن حذيفة رضي الله عنه قال كان النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم إذا أخذ مضجعه من الليل وضع يده تحت خده ثم يقول اللهم باسمك أموت وأحيا وإذا استيقظ قال الحمد لله الذي أحيانا بعد ما أماتنا وإليه النشور. (بخارى رقم 6314 ) Hadhrat Huzaifa (Radhiyallahu Anhu) reports that when retiring to bed at night, Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) would place his (right) hand under his (right) cheek and would recite the duaa اللهم باسمك اموت و احيى , and upon awakening would recite الحمد لله الذى احيانا بعد ما اماتنا واليه النشور

Imam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) and the Three Questions of the Roman Emperor The Emperor of the Romans once sent a large amount of wealth to the Khalifah of the Muslims. Before dispatching his representative with the wealth, the Emperor commanded him to pose three questions to the ‘Ulamaa’ of the Muslims. The Roman representative, as instructed, posed the three questions to the ‘Ulamaa’ but they were unable to give him satisfactory answers. Imam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) was, at that time, still a young boy and he happened to be present with his father. When he saw that the ‘Ulamaa’ were unable to adequately answer the three questions, he approached the Khalifah and asked him for permission to respond to the challenge of the Romans. The Khalifah granted him permission and he turned to the Roman representative who was seated at a raised pulpit and asked, “Will you be posing the questions?” When the representative replied in the affirmative, Imam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) said, “In that case, you should descend to the floor so that I can be seated at the pulpit.” The representative complied and climbed down, allowing the young Imam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) to ascend. The Roman representative then put forth his first question, “What was in existence before Allah?” Imam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) replied by likewise asking a question, “Do you know mathematics?” The representative replied, “Yes.” Imam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) continued, “What precedes the number ‘one’?” The representative replied, “One is the first number; there is nothing before it.” Imam Abu Hanifah then concluded his answer explaining, “If there is nothing before the figurative number one, how can there be anything before the actual One (Allah Ta‘ala)?” The representative then posed the second question. He asked, “In which direction is Allah facing?” Once again, Imam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) answered by posing a question of his own, “When you light a lamp, in which direction does the light shine?” The representative replied, “The light shines equally in all four directions.” Imam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) explained, “If a light that can be lit and extinguished is not restricted and limited by direction, how can the light of the Creator of the heavens and earth, which is eternal and overpowering, ever be restricted and limited by direction?” The representative then asked his third and final question, “What is Allah doing?” Imam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) answered, “He has brought down a disbeliever such as yourself from the pulpit and raised a believer such as myself from the ground.” Imam Abu Hanifah (rahimahullah) had correctly and efficiently answered all three questions and the Roman representative admitted defeat and departed. (Ashbaah wan Nazaa’ir page. 415) Source: Whatisislam.co.za

Forgotten Heroines: The Housewifes Lament Money is tight. The kids are demanding. Skin is raw from all the cooking, cleaning and chores that have to be done every day. There’s absolutely no time to spare for anything else, whether it’s pursuing further education or volunteering for a special cause. Does this sound familiar? There are Muslim women all over the world who find themselves at home, living life as domestic stay-at-home mums and housewives. It’s a physically and emotionally demanding job and it’s also a pretty thankless one. How can spending all day serving others, instead of being involved in some kind of noble, public cause, ever be truly fulfilling and worth recognition – not just by people, but by Allah (Subhaanahu Wata'ala) Himself? Fatimah bint Muhammad is known to be one of the four most perfect women in the entire world. “Prophet Muhammad (Salallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) drew four lines and said to the Companions, “Do you know what these are?” They said, “Allah and His Messenger know best.” He said, “The best women of the women of Paradise are Khadeejah bint Khuwaylid, Fatimah bint Muhammad, Maryam bint Imran and Aasiyah bint Muzahim (the wife of the Pharaoh).” (Ahmad) Yet when we look at the biography of Fatimah bint Muhammad (Salallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam), one could say that in comparison to others amongst the early Muslim women, her life was relatively unremarkable. She grew up during a difficult time for her parents, when her father was being publicly mocked and derided for preaching his message; she lost her mother at a relatively young age and she married her cousin Ali ibn Abi Talib when she was about fifteen years old. Some of the most well-known ahadeeth related by her mention how physically demanding her lifestyle was, such that her hands would crack and bleed from the wheat-grinding that she used to do. What made Fatimah so special? So special, in fact, that she will forever be known as one of the greatest women of Paradise? Fatimah bint Muhammad is not known for an act of dramatic courage such as that displayed by Nusaybah bint Ka’b during the battle of Uhud, but she too provides an example for a situation that many Muslim women around the world live and continue to face: the everyday drudgery of life as a wife and mother. Fatimah may have been the most beloved daughter to the Messenger of Allah, who was also the head of the Islamic State and leader of the Muslim army, but that didn’t mean that her life was one of luxury or ease. Quite to the contrary, Fatimah was the mother of two young boys and ran her household single-handedly. Life was difficult back then, with none of the technologies that smooth our way through tedious tasks today. She used to grind the wheat for her bread with her own hands, to the point that her hands would crack and bleed. Her husband, ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib, was an employee of one of the Ansaar, but the income was meagre and they struggled to survive on a daily basis. One day, weary and despairing of the toll that their lifestyle was taking on her, Fatimah decided that she would approach her father, RasulAllah (Salallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam). At the time, the Muslims had won a battle and, as a result, had captured several prisoners and other spoils of war. With the reasoning that as a member of the Ummah, she was entitled to some relief, Fatimah went to visit one of RasulAllah’s homes. She did not find her father present, but seeing her stepmother A’ishah, Fatimah shared the story of her bleeding hands and her wish for a maidservant to take on a share of the burdens. Fatimah went back to her home, and when RasulAllah returned to his own house, A’ishah told him about his daughter’s visit. That same night, RasulAllah slipped into his daughter’s home, where she and ‘Ali were already lying in bed. ‘Ali narrates, “I wanted to get up, but the Prophet said, ‘Remain in your place.’ Then he sat down between us until I felt the coolness of his face on my chest. The Prophet said, ‘Shall I teach you a thing which is better than what you have asked me? When you go to bed, say, ‘Allahu akbar’ thirty-four times, and ‘subhanAllah’ thirty-three times, and ‘Alhamdulillah’ thirty-three times for that is better for you both than a servant.’” (Bukhari, Book #57, Hadith #55) After this, Fatimah never repeated her request for a maid ever again. It may seem to be a small, insignificant thing, but subhanAllah this was one of the reasons for which Fatimah earned her position as one of the queens of Jannah. Her life was spent quietly serving her Lord, through her sincere intentions behind caring for her husband and children. Around her, there were many sahabiyaat whose lives seemed much more exciting, full of adventure and grandeur. Her stepmother, A’ishah, was a great scholar; her great-aunt Safiyyah bint Abdul-Muttalib was fierce in battle and the women of Madinah were renowned for their boldness in approaching any matter. Nonetheless, for Fatimah bint RasulAllah, the path to Paradise was simple – though never easy. For every stay-at-home-mother and housewife who feels that her life is too consumed by daily drudgery, who worries that her life is too dull to be of consequence, the quiet strength of Fatimah bint RasulAllah is an inspiration and a reminder that no deed, however small or seemingly insignificant, is overlooked by Allah, the Most Compassionate, the Most Just. For indeed, Allah does not allow to be lost the reward of those who do good. (Surah Hud, verse 115) Jannah is not only for the Prophets, the martyrs, the ascetics, or the scholars; Jannah is attainable by every Muslimah, no matter her occupation or station in life. In the eyes of Allah, every sincere Muslim woman who pledges her life to pleasing her Lord is a heroine of Islam. Zainab bint Yunus

Umrah Made Easy – Point by Point Compiled by Mufti A.H.Elias Intention: اَللّٰهُمَّ إِنِّيْ أُرِیْدُ الْعُمْرَةَ فَیَسِّرْهَا لِيْ وَتَقَبَّلْهَا مِنِّيْ. O Allaah, I intend to perform Umrah, so make it easy for me, and accept it from me. Talbiyah: لَبَّيْكَ اَللّٰهُمَّ لَبَّيْكَ، لَبَّيْكَ لَا شَرِيْكَ لَكَ لَبَّيْكَ إِنَّ الْحَمْدَ وَالنِّعْمَةَ لَكَوَالْمُلْكَ لَا شَرِيْكَ لَكَ Tie the Ihraam from the Meeqaat, make the intention, and after reciting the Talbiyah, perform the Umrah in the following sequence upon entering Masjid al-Haraam.Recite Talbiyah in abundance. 4 things to be done before beginning Tawaaf: 1. Stop Talbiyah recitation once you start the Tawaaf 2. The males should take the upper Ihraam cloth from under the right armpit and place it over the left shoulder, leaving the right shoulder un-covered, i.e. Istibah 3. A few steps just before coming in line with the Hijr al-Aswad, face the Baytullaah and make the intention of performing Tawaaf, ‘O Allaah, I intend to perform Tawaaf of Your Noble house, make it easy for me and accept it from me.’ (It is a necessary condition to perform Tawaaf in the state of Wudhoo) 4. Now, without turning the chest away from the Baytullaah, face the Hijr al-Aswad, i.e. place both palms towards the Baytullaah and lift the hands upto the ears. Then make Istilaam, i.e. make an indication with the palms towards the Hijr al-Aswad and say (بِسْمِ اللهِ اَللهُ أَكْبَرُ لَا إِلٰهَ إِلَّا اللهُ وِلِلهِ الْحَمْدُ), then kiss the palms, now begin the Tawaaf. Do 4 things upon commencing Tawaaf: 1. In Tawaaf, only the males should do Raml, i.e. one should take short steps, with the chest out, walking like a brave person 2. During Tawaaf and between Rukn Yamaani and Hijr al-Aswad, it is proven to recite رَبَّنَا اٰتِنَا فِي الدُّنْيَا حَسَنَةً وَّفِي الْآخِرَةِ حَسَنَةً وَّقِنَا عَذَابَ النَّارِ The rest of the Tawaaf, one should recite the third Kalimah, Istighfaar, Durud Sharif or one can recite the Qur’aan. (Rukn Yamaani is the corner to the left of the Hijr al-Aswad. 3. One should face the Hijr al-Aswad at the commencement of each circuit and make Istilaam. (If there is a crowd, then one should make Istilaam with the right hand, without facing the Hijr al-Aswad and begin the next circuit). 4. During Tawaaf, one should not face the Ka’bah completely, one should not face the back to the Ka’bah. Do 4 things upon the completion of Tawaaf (7 circuits): 1. After completing the 7 circuits, perform Istilaam the 8th time and make du’aa’. (There is perform applied onto the Multazam, do not touch it 2. Cover the right shoulder, and perform 2 Rak’at Waajib Salaah behind the Maqaam Ibraaheem, or anywhere in the Haram. This is when it is not the Makruh time. One should also make du’aa’. 3. Drink Zamzam water in abundance and recite the Du’aa’ (اللهم إِنِّيْ أسْأَلُكَ عِلْمًا نَّافِعًا، وَّرِزْقًا وَّاسِعًا وَّشِفَاءً مِّنْ كُلِّ دَاءٍ) Allaah, I ask of You beneficial knowledge and wide sustenance and cure from every ailment 4. Before going to Safa and Marwa, first do a ninth Istilaam in the direction of Hijr al-Aswad Do 4 things when going to Mount Safa: 1. Go to Mount Safa from Baab Safa or in any other easy way. Upon reaching there, face the Ka’bah and make abundant du’aa’ 2. Begin the Sa’ee from Safa. Upon reaching Marwa, one circuit is completed. Then go from Marwa to Safa, the second circuit is completed. In this way, the seventh circuit will be completed at Marwa. (During Sa’ee, the males should walk fast between the green lights). 3. Go to the Masjid and perform 2 Rak’at of Nafl Salaah (Safa and Marwa are out of the boundary of the Masjid.) 4. The males should shave or trim the hair. Females should cut a fingertip amount from all the hair of the head, or from at least a quarter of her hair. Alhamdulillaah, all the fundamentals of Umrah are complete. There are two Fardh (obligatory) actions in Umrah: Ihraam, Tawaaf. Two Wajib (compulsory) actions: Sa’ee, Shaving, or trimming the hair Two Sunnat acts: Raml and Ithabah (leaving right should open)-for males only Two Mustahab acts: Drink Zam Zam and go to Multazam to make duaa if possible. Do not forget the 9th Istlilam before going to make Saee.

Is zakaat compulsory on an extra house Q: Does a person have to pay zakaat on an extra house he bought and which is rented out? Similarly does one have to pay zakaat on the rent? A: Zakaat is not payable on the extra house, but zakaat is payable on the rent received. And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best. ولو آجر عبده أو داره بنصاب إن لم يكونا للتجارة لا تجب ما لم يحل الحول بعد القبض (البحر الرائق 2/ 224) ( ولا في ثياب البدن ) المحتاج إليها لدفع الحر والبرد ابن ملك ( وأثاث المنزل ودور السكنى ونحوها ) وكذا الكتب وإن لم تكن لأهلها إذا لم تنو للتجارة. (شامي 2/265) ( وسبب لزوم أدائها توجه الخطاب ) يعني قوله تعالى { وآتوا الزكاة } وشرطه أي شرط افتراض أدائها ( حولان الحول ) وهو في ملكه ( وثمنية المال كالدراهم والدنانير ) لتعينهما للتجارة بأصل الخلقة فتلزم الزكاة كيفما أمسكهما ولو للنفقة ( أو السوم ) بقيدها الآتي ( أو نية التجارة ) في العروض إما صريحا ولا بد من مقارنتها لعقد التجارة كما سيجيء أو دلالة بأن يشتري عينا بعرض التجارة أو يؤاجر داره التي للتجارة بعرض فتصير للتجارة بلا نية صريحا واستثنوا من اشتراط النية ما يشتريه المضارب فإنه يكون للتجارة مطلقا (شامي 2/267) ( و ) اعلم أن الديون عند الإمام ثلاثة قوي ومتوسط وضعيف (فتجب ) زكاتها إذا تم نصابا وحال الحول لكن لا فورا بل ( عند قبض أربعين درهما من الدين ) القوي كقرض ( وبدل مال تجارة ) فكلما قبض أربعين درهما يلزمه درهم ( و ) عند قبض ( مائتين منه لغيرها ) أي من بدل مال لغير تجارة وهو المتوسط كثمن سائمة وعبيد خدمة ونحوهما مما هو مشغول بحوائجه الأصلية كطعام وشراب وأملاك ويعتبر ما مضى من الحول قبل القبض في الأصح ومثله ما لو ورث دينا على رجل ( و ) عند قبض ( مائتين مع حولان الحول بعده ) أي بعد القبض ( من ) دين ضعيف وهو ( بدل غير مال ) كمهر ودية وبدل كتابة وخلع قوله ( في الأصح ) قد علمت أنه ظاهر الرواية وعبارة الفتح و البحر في صحيح الرواية قلت لكن قال في البدائع إن رواية ابن سماعة أنه لا زكاة فيه حتى يقبض المائتين ويحول الحول من وقت القبض هي الأصح من الروايتين عن أبي حنيفة اهـ ومثله في غاية البيان وعليه فحكمه حكم الدين الضعيف الآتي (شامي 2/305) (أحسن الفتاوى 4/271) فتاوى محمودية 14 /141 Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

The First Step to Heaven As Salaamu alaikum. I am Zamiya, eleven years old. I pour love from my heart and soul into everything I write. I never thought I would actually cover my head until, what, eighth grade? To me, it seemed like a tiny, unnecessary part of my life, not an actual purpose. My mother wore the headscarf, and at school, hardly any girl was wearing the Hijab. I thought I would stand out, like neon yellow in a darkened background. I never thought it really was obligatory to wear it at all- until the day I found a special book. Books are important to me. Writing is my heart and soul, and is not a passion, but a mechanism of survival. I needed it in my life- so of course, when I read that particular piece of art, I could not help, but become mesmerized. It told about a seemingly simple girl from the United States of America, who was struggling with keeping her headscarf – covered head high – she was strong, fiery, and fearless in the eyes of Allah Ta'ala. Along the way, she was faced with uncountable challenges – her scarf had been forcibly removed, Fitnah, discrimination, and a lot more. When I realized how indifferent she was, even with the Hijab – and that putting it on after reaching puberty was necessary. I finally went up to my mother one fine day, my thoughts clashing with each other. You don’t need to wear it. You look better with your hair all styled up. Don’t do it for yourself or for others; you must look best in the Eyes of Allah (Subhaanahu WaTa'ala). I went up to her as she typed an article and told her my final decision. “Mom, I have finally decided to wear the Hijab from the first day of school,” I anxiously announced. It turned out that she was overjoyed, gave me a hug, and took the whole family out for lunch the very next day. She styled my Hijab with pretty pins and a cool outfit, and we all went out. Even though my hair fell out quite a bit due to forgetting an under cap, all went well. I did not wear it for the rest of the summer vacation, though. However, I did keep my promise for the first day of school! When I went to school on the first day, my specially-bought blue Hijab wrapped around my head and my eyes sparkling with determination, I felt unbeatable – but also a bit nervous. However, it seemed to be totally okay. Loads of girls complimented me on the style and how well it suited me (even though some were plain snarky); the older girls and teachers congratulated me – and three other girls had worn the wonderful headscarf, too! By the end of the day, the three other Hijabis and I were discussing how we decided on wearing the Hijab. My mother took me out as some kind of celebration after school as well. Now, it has been almost three months since I put on the scarf and strode with pride. I am now encouraging and doing Dawah, representing how a good Muslim girl should behave in public – but at the same time, being the same old silly girl I always was, striving for good grades, crying over anything and being all smiley the next moment, and being just the same person I was. Nothing has changed during this time. I am sure that when I go to non-Muslim countries like the United Kingdom or the States, I will be faced with puzzled looks and fierce remarks. Still, I will never take off my scarf Insha’Allah. Instead, I will show all of them what a Muslim is, and hopefully change the minds of even the most ignorant ones with the help of Allah (Subhaanahu WaTa'ala). My journey has just begun. I have a lot more to do – to influence the world with my talents, give them my earned knowledge, and much, much more. After all, I am still a little girl who has a lot more to learn about this world. I pray that our Ummah improves more and converts into something legendary- something so extraordinary that generations will praise us and we are in good books everywhere. Wearing the Hijab was only the first step of the stairway to Jannah – and I profusely hope, with all my heart, that I step upon each and every one of them, and that I eventually reach the glowing gates of the ineffably beautiful place all Muslims hope to reach one day: heaven. I will keep on climbing up to the next level of my Iman, Hijab on my head and eyes determined – being the same girl I always was. By Zamiya Jay

Duaa Between Azaan and Iqaamah عن أنس بن مالك رضي الله عنه قال : قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم الدعاء لا يرد بين الأذان والإقامة قال أبو عيسى حديث أنس حديث حسن صحيح (ترمذي رقم 212) Hadhrat Anas (Radhiyallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “The duaa made between azaan and iqaamah is not rejected.” ihyaauddeen.co.za

Duaa before Sleeping – 3 One should recite the following duaa before going to sleep بِاسْمِكَ وَضَعْتُ جَنْبِي فَاغْفِر لِي With Your name (O Allah) have I placed my side down (i.e. I have lay down to sleep), so forgive my sins عن عبد الله بن عمرو أن النبي صلى الله عليه و سلم قال لرجل : ما تقول إذا أويت إلى فراشك ؟ قال : أقول : باسمك وضعت جنبي فاغفر لي ذنبي . فقال النبي صلى الله عليه و سلم :أصبت وفقك الله. رواه الطبراني وفيه رشدين بن سعد وهو ضعيف وقد قبل منه ما حدث به في فضائل الأعمال (مجمع الزوائد رقم 17043) Hadhrat Abdullah bin Amr (Radhiyallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) once asked a person, “What do you recite when retiring to bed?” The person replied, “I recite بِاسْمِكَ وَضَعْتُ جَنْبِي فَاغْفِر لِي.” Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) approved of this and said: “You have done well, may Allah Ta’ala grant you tawfeeq (to carry out righteous works).”

wa'alaykumus salaam ...I hope so sis : )

The Place of Taqwa is in the Heart Abu Hurayrah (radi Allahu anhu) said: The Messenger of Allah (sal Allahu alaihi wa sallam) said: “Do not have envy of one another. Do not inflate prices on one another. Do not hate one another. Do not turn your backs on one another. Do not undersell one another; but rather, be worshipers of Allah and brothers. The Muslim is the brother of his fellow Muslim. He does not oppress him, nor does he abandon him, nor does he lie to him, nor does he belittle him. Taqwa is here” and he pointed to his chest three times. “It is a sufficient act of evil that a person belittles his Muslim brother. Every Muslim to another Muslim is sacred, his blood, his wealth, and his honor.” [sahih Muslim] The place of Taqwa (fear of Allah) is the heart. So when the heart has fear of Allah, then the limbs have fear of Allah.

Incident of Imam Shaafi‘ee (rahimahullah) and an Atheist An atheist once asked Imaam Shaafi‘ee (rahimahullah) to prove the existence of the creator, Allah Ta‘ala. Imaam Shaafi‘ee (rahimahullah) answered, “Look at the leaves of the mulberry tree. The colour, taste, smell, composition and properties of every leaf are the same. Despite being exactly the same, when consumed by the silk worm, silk is produced. When visited by the bee, honey is produced. When consumed by the goat, dung is produced and when consumed by the musk deer, musk is produced. Only the design of a creator who is eternal and all powerful could cause so many diverse things to be produced from one substance. Otherwise, logic would demand that the end product of all be the same as the substance which entered all was the same.” (‘Aqaa’id-ul-Islaam page.42)

“Happy New Year!” Pre-Historic Calendar The New Year is one of the oldest festivals of the world, dating back to the pre historic era. The New Year History itself forms an extensive area of study. The history of New Year has undergone a series of changes over the ages to achieve its global form. The urge of celebrating New Year as a vibrant festivity emerged at the dawn of civilization. At present, New Year is celebrated on January 1 and it had been an essential part of the cultural and traditional practices of the different communities inhabiting the world. The wide spread acceptance of January 1 as the New Year is confined only within the past four hundred years. Therefore, this is the principal reason that the New Year traditions vary from country to country. The earliest instance of New Year is found in Mesopotamian culture. It was about 2000 BC, when the people of Babylon used to observe New Year celebrations on the day of the Vernal Equinox that is during the middle of March. It was the Romans, who recognized March 1, 153 B.C as New Year Day in their calendar. Prior to that March 25, the date of the vernal equinox, was celebrated as their New Year's Day. And this was considered to be the beginning of New Year by most Christian European countries during the early medieval era. At that time there were only ten calendar months beginning from March. The relevance of this fact can still be seen in the names of some months, which were set according to their respective sequences in the calendar. As in the calendar of the present time, the months from September to December are placed as the ninth, tenth, eleventh and twelfth months respectively, previously they were positioned as the seventh, eighth, ninth and the tenth months. In Latin, 'Septem' means, seven, 'Octo' means, eight, 'Novem' means, ninth and 'Decem' means ten. New Year The Israeli term for New Year’s night celebrations, “Sylvester,” was the name of the “Saint” and the Roman Pope who reigned during the Council of Nicaea (325 C.E.). The year before the Council of Nicaea convened, Sylvester convinced Constantine to prohibit Jews from living in Jerusalem. At the Council of Nicaea, Sylvester arranged for the passage of a host of viciously anti-Semitic legislation. All Catholic “Saints” are awarded a day on which Christians celebrate and pay tribute to that Saint’s memory. December 31 is Saint Sylvester Day - hence celebrations on the night of December 31 are dedicated to Sylvester’s memory. It was in the Gregorian calendar established by Pope Gregory XII that the New Year was firmly positioned on January 1. It was readily accepted by the Catholics and then by the Protestants and soon became a holiday recognized by the entire world slowly and steadily.[1] Advice: It is apparent from the history of New Year that it is traced back to the beliefs of the pagans and their gods and Christian motivations. A muslim is sensitive to his Iman. He is averse to anything that is contrary to his Iman. Celebrating New Year of the Gregorian calendar has its roots in shirk and Christianity. It is therefore not permissible for a muslim to celebrate New Year or wish others Happy New Year. Furthermore, it is a norm for people to celebrate the end of the year and welcome the New Year through music, dancing wining etc. It does not behold a muslim to be in such an environment especially when celebrating New Year has its roots in kufr and shirk. For us as muslims, we are in the month of Safar, the second month of the lunar calendar 1433H. The 31st of December or the 1st of January is just another day of our lives. We should guard and protect ourselves from the influences of kufr, shirk and sins. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Mawlana Abdul Hannan Nizami, Student Darul Iftaa USA Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. www.daruliftaa.net [1] http://www.infoplease.com/spot/newyearhistory.html http://www.theholidayspot.com/newyear/history.htm http://www.123newyear.com/history/ http://www.goalsguy.com/events/n_facts.html قَالَ - رَحِمَهُ اللَّهُ - (وَالْإِعْطَاءُ بِاسْمِ النَّيْرُوزِ وَالْمِهْرَجَانِ لَا يَجُوزُ) أَيْ الْهَدَايَا بِاسْمِ هَذَيْنِ الْيَوْمَيْنِ حَرَامٌ بَلْ كُفْرٌ، وَقَالَ أَبُو حَفْصٍ الْكَبِيرُ - رَحِمَهُ اللَّهُ - لَوْ أَنَّ رَجُلًا عَبَدَ اللَّهَ خَمْسِينَ سَنَةً ثُمَّ جَاءَ يَوْمُ النَّيْرُوزِ، وَأَهْدَى لِبَعْضِ الْمُشْرِكِينَ بَيْضَةً يُرِيدُ بِهِ تَعْظِيمَ ذَلِكَ الْيَوْمِ فَقَدْ كَفَرَ، وَحَبِطَ عَمَلُهُ، وَقَالَ صَاحِبُ الْجَامِعِ الْأَصْغَرِ إذَا أَهْدَى يَوْمَ النَّيْرُوزِ إلَى مُسْلِمٍ آخَرَ، وَلَمْ يُرِدْ بِهِ التَّعْظِيمَ لِذَلِكَ الْيَوْمِ، وَلَكِنْ مَا اعْتَادَهُ بَعْضُ النَّاسِ لَا يَكْفُرُ، وَلَكِنْ يَنْبَغِي لَهُ أَنْ لَا يَفْعَلَ ذَلِكَ فِي ذَلِكَ الْيَوْمِ خَاصَّةً، وَيَفْعَلُهُ قَبْلَهُ أَوْ بَعْدَهُ كَيْ لَا يَكُونَ تَشَبُّهًا بِأُولَئِكَ الْقَوْمِ، وَقَدْ قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ - صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ - «مَنْ تَشَبَّهَ بِقَوْمٍ فَهُوَ مِنْهُمْ» ، وَقَالَ فِي الْجَامِعِ الْأَصْغَرِ رَجُلٌ اشْتَرَى يَوْمَ النَّيْرُوزِ شَيْئًا لَمْ يَكُنْ يَشْتَرِيهِ قَبْلَ ذَلِكَ إنْ أَرَادَ بِهِ تَعْظِيمَ ذَلِكَ الْيَوْمِ كَمَا يُعَظِّمُهُ الْمُشْرِكُونَ كَفَرَ، وَإِنْ أَرَادَ الْأَكْلَ وَالشُّرْبَ وَالتَّنَعُّمَ لَا يَكْفُرُ. (تبيين الحقائق ج 6 ص 228) askimam

Rabi’ul Awwal has arrived, again… Allah Ta’ala declares, “There certainly is an example in Allah’s Messenger for he who fears Allah and the last day and remembers Allah abundantly” (Surah Al-Ahzab, verse: 21) Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “He who holds firm to my sunnah when corruption is rampant in my Ummah will attain the reward of a hundred martyrs.” (Al-Bayhaqi fi-Zuhd; “hasan” –sound- according to Hafiz ibn Hajar; see: HidayaturRuwat, Hadith: 174) Sayyiduna Anas (radiyallahu ‘anhu) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) affectionately advised him: “Whoever cherishes my sunnah, indeed cherishes me and whoever loves me will be with me in Jannah.” (Sunan Tirmizhi, Hadith: 2678. Classified as “hasan” –sound- by Imam Tirmidhi (rahimahullah) Sentimental events The above and other such verses and Ahadith are frequently heard and recited during the month of Rabi’ul-Awwal, the month in which the birth and demise of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) occurred. Huge gatherings are held, sentiments are elevated and hearts become soft upon hearing the details of these events. Resolutions of adhering to the sunnah are made, and love for Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) is increased. As muslims, we believe that every sunnah of our beloved Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) is filled with nur (divine light) and blessing of Allah Ta’ala. Therefore, the illustrious Sahabah (radiyallahu ‘anhum) and Muhaddithun (Scholars of Hadith) took great pains in preserving the noble Ahadith and sunnah of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam). Through their sacrifices Allah Ta’ala has facilitated a huge amount of literature in which the sacred Hadith is preserved up to this day so that it can be adopted even by the Ummati (follower) of the 15th century of Islam. But alas! How pitiful is the condition of that “lover” of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) who resolved to adopt more sunnats of his beloved the previous year, but failed to do so thus far? One who discards the sunnah is warned severely by Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) with the words: “I curse him, Allah curses him and so does every Prophet of Allah” (Mustadrak Hakim, vol.1 pg.36; Hidayatur Ruwat, Hadith: 105. Considered “sahih”- authentic- by Imam Hakim rahimahullah) This clearly highlights the cause of most of the social mishaps prevalent in the Muslim community today. How can the blessing and mercy of Allah be found in that home whose inhabitants abandon the sunnah of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam)? Rabi’ul-Awwal has dawned once again, this time for the 1487th time’ since the birth of Rasulullah (sallallahu álaihi wasallam). During this long period, there were many who took such resolutions and stuck by them thereby attaining the virtues promised by Allah and his Messenger (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) as well as the success of both the worlds. There is no certainty as to how many more Rabi’ul-Awwals we will witness. Hence let not the procrastination of shaytan dominate us. Lets make an effort and also seek the assistance of Allah sincerely for the strength to adopt every sunnah of our beloved Master (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) before it is too late. Comprehensiveness of the sunnah The sunnah of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) is not restricted to acts or places of worship only. Instead, it is comprehensive and covers all aspects and situations of life such as ones social and moral conduct, business dealings, one’s dressing etc. It also applies to all places whether the Masjid, business place, the home or even while one is on journey. In every situation, one should draw guidance from the lifestyle of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) thereby turning habits into acts of worship. Not seasonal The study of the seerah (lifestyle of Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) is not only for Rabi’ul Awwal, rather it should be done throughout the year. Every muslim should endeavour to study the complete seerah at least once in his or her lifetime under the guidance of a qualified ‘alim (scholar) al-miftah

Du'a for Taqwa اللَّهُمَّ آتِ نَفْسِي تَقْوَاهَا ، وَزَكِّها أنْتَ خَيْرُ مَنْ زَكَّاهَا ، أنْتَ وَلِيُّهَا وَمَوْلاَهَا O Allah, grant to my soul the sense of righteousness and purify it, for Thou art the Best Purifier thereof. Thou art the Protecting Friend thereof, and Guardian thereof. ‏ ‏اللهم إني أسألك الهدى، والتقى، والعفاف، والغنى‏ Allaahumma innee as-alukal hudaa, wattuqaa, wal 'afaafa, wal ghinaa "O Allah! I ask You for guidance, piety, safety and well-being, and contentment and sufficiency."

Blessings of Righteousness (Taqwa) excerpted from The Sermons by Shaykh Zulfiqar Ahmad (db) Oh Mankind! We created you from a single pair of a male and a female and made you into nations and tribes that you may know each other. Verily the most honored of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you, and Allah has full knowledge and is well acquainted with all things [49:13] Stars beautify the heavens whereas the obedient beautify the earth. The only purpose of life is the obedience to Allah and the purpose of living is the remembrance of Allah . The Most Honorable Allah says in the Holy Quran: Verily the most honored of you in the sight of Allah is the most righteous of you, and Allah has full knowledge and is well acquainted with all things [49:13] The emphasis here is neither on color nor race, and neither is it on being an Arab versus being a non-Arab. In fact, the nearest to Allah are the most righteous. Signs of Being Near to Allah Ta'ala Nearness to Alla hta'ala is directly proportionate to a person’s level of righteousness (taqwa), and thus taqwa becomes a clear indicator in judging the closeness of beings to Allah . This is why the Holy Quran states: No men can be its (the Blessed Ka’bah) guardians except the righteous [8:34] Neither Grief Nor Fear Verily on the Friends of Allah there is no fear nor shall they grieve [10:62] Khauf refers to fear from an outside source whereas huzn is fear from within, and Allah says that His Friends the Auliyaa Allah ta'ala are protected from both of these kinds through His Mercy. This special status is only reserved for these honored people, whom Allah defines as: Those who believe and guard against evil [10:63] Allah ta'ala further specifies the rewards of His Auliyaa: For them are glad tidings in the life of the present and the Hereafter [10:64] Allah ta'ala honors His decisions and promises. Hence, people should practice taqwa in order that they enter into such an honored category of people such as the Auliyaa. Different Degrees There are different stages of wilayah [Friendship of Allah ], the first of which is shared by all who testify to the Testament of Faith (kalimah) and are Muslims. This is the first and simplest stage, where the lowest definition of wilayah is widely spread among all Muslims, since no one is actually an enemy of Allah . Wilayat-e-‘Aammah and Wilayat-e-Khasah This first stage, which is accessible to all Muslims who recite the kalimah is called Wilayat-e-‘Aammah, the lowest stage without which Allah does not even accept deeds. The next and special stage of wilayah is Wilayat-e-Khasah that is only accessible to people who attain taqwa. Surely Allah does accept of those who are righteous. [5:67] Decorated with Taqwa Just as a vendor painstakingly arranges his food stall by placing the best fruits and nuts at the top, Allah ta'ala has adorned His Holy Book with references to taqwa after every three to four verses. Such references shine throughout the Holy Quran like dancing stars, even as the command to acquire taqwa may occur three or more times in one verse alone. For Allah to issue a command even once is no small matter, and so the numerous times that this command occurs should serve as an important message indicating its importance. Oh Mankind! Fear your Guardian Lord! [4:1] This verse is structured in a command form, exhorting all those addressed to acquire taqwa and fear their Creator. Oh Mankind! Fear your Guardian Lord Who created you from a single person created of like nature his mate and from them twain scattered countless men and women: fear Allah through Whom you demand you mutual rights and revere the wombs that bore you, for Allah ever watches over you [4:1] This verse serves as another beautiful illustration wherein taqwa is mentioned at the beginning and at the end of the verse. Yet another verse with this command is: O you who believe! Fear Allah and let every soul look to what it has sent forth for the morrow [59:18] No Limit to Taqwa The shariah has prescribed limits for everything except taqwa. Allah ta'ala says in the Holy Quran: So fear Allah as much as you can [64:16] O you who believe! Fear Allah as He should be feared [3:102] Indeed, taqwa has a special station with Allah to have been given such importance and the honor of being the one thing without limitation. Benefits of Taqwa Taqwa is a tremendous blessing that itself provides a doorway to other blessings. It provides means for forgiveness from sin and gives the believer extraordinary insight. Allah states in the Holy Quran: If anyone fears Allah He will remove his ills and enlarge his reward [65:5] Elsewhere in the Holy Quran Allah ta'ala says: O you who believe! If you fear Allah, He will grant you a criterion [8:29] Here, Allah ta'ala says that He will bestow the insight of Furqan upon the righteous, such insight and brilliance that leaves no doubt of the difference between truth and falsehood. One no longer needs to debate the taqwa behind an action or wander in doubt because everything becomes clear. Sustenance of the Flesh Allah ta'ala says in the Holy Quran that He would shower blessings from above and below if only the people accept faith and acquire taqwa. If the people of the towns had but believed and feared Allah, We would indeed have opened to them blessings from heaven and earth [7:96] Elsewhere, Allah ta'ala says: If only they had stood fast by the Law and all the revelation sent to them, they would have enjoyed happiness from every side [5:66] Man is composed of two things, flesh and the soul (ruh). Whatever is from the earth receives sustenance from the same, which in this case means that the body receives its nourishment from the earth, because this is what it was created from. For example, bread is made from wheat that grows out of the ground and water springs forth from the oceans and mountains. Similarly, the clothes that man uses to cover his body are made from cotton that also grows out of the ground. Hence, since Allah ta'ala created the body from the earth, so did He assign all its sustenance to come from the same. Sustenance of the Ruh The origin of the ruh is ‘Aalam-e-Amr[1]. Consequently the ruh derives its sustenance from the countless blessings and mercy that continuously flow from Allah’s ta'ala Throne. They ask you concerning the Ruh. Say it comes by command of my Creator [17:85] While the body derives all its needs from the earth from which it was made, the ruh in turn derives its nourishment from the heavens from where it was created. Allah ta'ala says that He will give both the ruh and the body its due sustenance from where He designed it. taqwa is such a blessing that it opens not only the doors of sustenance, but all blessings, and Allah will always provide amply if people are grateful. However, ingratitude and rebellion will only result in this abundance being withdrawn to the point that Allah ta'ala may even stop their flow. If you are grateful, I will add more favors unto you, but if you are thankless, truly My punishment is dire! [14:7] In the Holy Quran, Allah ta'ala cites the example of a nation thriving in abundance and blessing, that was consequently in no grief or fear from anyone. Their pride in their abundance eventually translated into ingratitude and rebellion to Allah ta'ala, and hence, Allah ta'ala withdrew all His blessings from them so that they were left in dire poverty and hunger. A city enjoying security and quiet, abundantly supplied with sustenance from every place; yet was it ungrateful for the favors of Allah, so Allah made it taste of hunger and terror, (closing on it) like a garment because of the evil which its people wrought [16:112] If man is ungrateful, Allah ta'ala will cease showering His blessings, and instead of having plenty, man will be reduced to having naught. On the other hand, if man is grateful and righteous, then Allah ta'ala will open the gates of His mercy, and blessings will rain down heavier than ever before, such that sustenance comes from places and by means that man could not possibly have imagined. For those who fear Allah He prepares a way out [65:2] Hadrat Thanvi (May the mercy of Allah be upon him) wrote a fascinating story regarding the blessings of Allah ta'ala. A young man said to his brothers that he would readily forsake his share of the inheritance to them if he could solely be left with the responsibility of caring for his parents. The brothers readily agreed to this and this young man served and tended to his parents very devoutly until the day they passed away. One night, he saw a dream in which a voice told him that he would find one hundred dinars under a particular stone because of his service to his parents. He asked if the money would have Allah’s ta'ala blessings, but the voice said no, and so he declined to accept. The next morning, he told his wife about his dream, and she advised him to check for the money even if he was not going to take it. However he refused, since he was firmly against the idea. The next night, he heard a voice in his dream telling him of ten dinars under a particular stone that he still had the chance to take as a reward for his service to his parents. Again, he asked the same question, and declined after receiving the same reply. The third night, the voice said that there was one dinar under the stone and this was his final chance to take it. The young man again asked if the dinar would have Allah’st ta'ala blessing, and this time the voice said yes. Hence, the next morning he eagerly took the dinar from under the stone. Walking home, he decided to buy something in the market for his wife to cook, and thus brought a fish home with him. As his wife was cleaning the fish, she found a precious jewel inside that they were able to sell and live comfortably for the rest of their life. Such are the blessings of Allah ta'ala, that He grants sustenance through avenues that people cannot possibly conceive. Sustenance of the People of Allah The People of Allah ta'ala find sustenance from the same source as prophets, and receive lovingly from Allah ta'ala, just as a devoted father cares for his child. Allah opens His vast treasures for them and the Holy Quran says: He prepares a way out and provides for him from sources he could never imagine [65: 2-3] Definition of Sustenance The closest translation for the Arabic word rizq is sustenance and means. Collectively, this includes the livelihood and honor of the whole family, food and earning, and the tranquility that accompanies a satisfied life. It is unfortunate that this is exactly the kind of fruitful life people struggle for all their lives but somehow feel that it is always beyond their grasp. Working more than one job also does not seem to solve their problems and this is because Allah ta'ala withdraws His blessings because of something that is gravely wrong or missing from daily life. The Paradigm Reversed People today pursue careers in engineering and medicine because they feel that they cannot possibly sustain themselves if they pursue a lifetime of pleasing Allah ta'ala as a scholar (‘aalim) or someone who has memorized the Holy Quran (hafiz). This is an unfortunate delusion because one cannot possibly find even one example where a true practicing ‘aalim or hafiz ever died from hunger or poverty. Sustenance comes from Allah ta'ala who will never fail those who serve and obey Him. So this way of thinking is ridiculous and a delusion from Shaitan. It is frequently the other way around, where one often hears of others who have completed high degrees, but have ended their lives in dire poverty and hunger. Hadrat Imam Abu Yusuf Imam Abu Yusuf (May the mercy of Allah be upon him) lost his father as a young child and so his mother sent him to the local launderer to be an apprentice so he could learn the trade and begin earning. On his way, the young Abu Yusuf encountered Imam Abu Hanifa (May the mercy of Allah be upon him) and began sitting in his company. Abu Yusuf subsequently became Hadrat Imam Abu Hanifa’s student and told him about his mother’s concerns. Imam Abu Hanifa advised him to console his mother by telling her that he had high hopes of a great career from what he was learning instead of being apprenticed to a launderer. The mother was not satisfied by this, and came to Imam Abu Hanifa to complain, saying that she had not sent her son to seek knowledge but to learn a trade so that the family could generate some immediate revenue. Imam Abu Hanifa tried to reassure the mother and said, “You will see that your son will prosper and eat sweet dishes and delicacies meant only for rulers.” The mother finally acquiesced and left her son in Imam Abu Hanifa’s tutelage. This son would later become an exemplary student and scholar of the Islamic world. Later in his lifetime, Imam Abu Yusuf served as Chief Justice and the Caliph Harun Rashid (May the mercy of Allah be upon him) would sit in his company. Once the caliph said to Imam Abu Yusuf, “Hadrat, I have had a dish prepared for you and would like it brought to you everyday.” Hadrat Imam Abu Yusuf liked the sweet dish very much and asked what it was. Harun Rashid replied, “This dish is so special that it is prepared for me only seldom but from now on, it will be prepared for you daily because of your exemplary status in knowledge.” Imam Abu Yusuf was grateful but again asked what it was, and the king replied, “This is a sweet dish made from pistachios.” Hadrat Imam Yusuf was at once reminded of the words his great teacher Imam Abu Hanifa had spoken to his mother that her son would be dining on dishes reserved for rulers, for in those times pistachios were considered a rich delicacy. Hadrat Salim Hadrat Salim (May the mercy of Allah be upon him) had originally been sold as a slave for three hundred dirhams, but afterwards, his pursuit of religious learning reached such an honored status that the king of the time used to come to his door seeking advice. It also happened once that the king was even refused an audience with Hadrat Salim and had to return empty handed, because Hadrat Salim had been so preoccupied with his religious duties. Hadrat Salim had once been a slave sold for merely three hundred dirhams, but his intense desire for knowledge and a connection with Allah ta'ala increased his worth a hundred fold. Unknown we remained until we were sold, Your buying made us priceless. The Responsibility of Sustenance Allah ta'ala delivers sustenance to all humankind from His vast treasures, but showers it especially on the righteous. Allah ta'ala takes responsibility for sustaining all of creation in the Holy Quran, but yet man is the only creature that hoards, as if this will somehow subside or be insufficient. And there is not a thing but its (sources and) treasures are with Us …We only send down thereof in due and ascertainable measures [15:21] There is no moving creature on earth but its sustenance depends on Allah [11:6] It is Allah who feeds (both) them and you [29:60] Someone once came to Hadrat Bayazid Bustami (May the mercy of Allah be upon him) seeking advice because he was very troubled. He said that he had a large family and was struggling to make ends meet. Hadrat Bayazid replied, “I want you to return home and evict all the people whose sustenance you are responsible for providing and only let those stay whose sustenance is the responsibility of Allah ta'ala.” Family Planning In the 1800s, a man named Malthus urged the importance of population control, claiming that the earth’s resources would become insufficient to sustain mankind if population growth was not curbed. This concept was revisited in the 1960s when governments urged family planning so that there would be enough for the 1970s generation to live comfortably. The 1970s came and passed and so did the 1980s with populations living in the same condition as before if not better. Decade after decade, governments issued these warnings that people would be reduced to cannibalism by the 1990s if population growth was not curbed with efficient family planning. However, even the 1990s came and passed with people living and eating even better. The simple and beautiful truth is that people in the 1990s were being sustained even better than their counterparts in the 1960s because Allah ta'ala was increasing means and sustenance as the world population increased. This was and is in conjunction with Allah’s ta'ala promise that sustenance is His responsibility. When Hadrat Adam e was the only human being on earth, Allah ta'ala just sent down sustenance for one, and subsequently allowed for more as the world’s population increased. Furthermore, the earth did not produce nearly as much as it does today in modern times when Hadrat Ibrahim e was alive, because Allah ta'ala made the earth produce only what was necessary at that time for what the population numbered then. Doors of Taqwa and Sustenance The provision of sustenance is Allah’s ta'ala responsibility. This by no means implies that man should not work or make effort to support himself, but rather than he should keep focused on that fact that Allah ta'ala is the Source of all. Difficulties and financial strains arise only when people neglect to focus on Allah ta'ala as the primary source of sustenance and thus resort to illegal means of acquiring income. On the other hand, the righteous never have the opportunity to complain because Allah ta'ala opens the vast treasures of His u sustenance for them. Taqwa in All Phases of Life Taqwa benefits man in all circumstances and in all phases of existence – in the temporal world; the grave; barzakh (the intermediary world), and the Hereafter. Allah ta'ala says in the Holy Quran: Said Moses to his people, “Pray for help from Allah and (wait) in patience and constancy…and the end is (best) for the righteous [7:128] The Holy Quran stresses taqwa and further guarantees success in this world and the Hereafter because of taqwa. Taqwa and the Bridge of Sirat Family, relatives, friends and all except the righteous will become bitter enemies on the Day of Judgment. Taqwa will prove useful even after death, and everyone will have to cross the Bridge of Sirat. Not one of you but (the righteous) will pass over it [19:71] Allah ta'ala says that all will cross, in order to separate righteousness from evil. This is by your Lord, a Decree that must be accomplished [19:71] Only the righteous will be able to cross and thus be saved, whereas the evil and rebellious shall fall into Hellfire. But We shall save those who guarded against evil [19:72] Having successfully crossed the Bridge, the righteous shall be escorted to the gardens of Paradise awaiting them. Those who feared their Creator will be led to Paradise in crowds [39:73] Inhabitants of Paradise Angels will welcome the righteous into Paradise at every gate, praising their patience and wishing them peace. Angels shall enter unto them from every gate [13:23] Allah ta'ala says that the righteous shall inherit Paradise, and at one place in the Holy Quran, an entire ruku’ is dedicated to the good tidings of Paradise. Such is the Garden that We give to those who guard against evil [19:63] All that is in Paradise is for the righteous, and the Holy Quran is filled with the beauty that lies within. Verily for the righteous will be a fulfillment of desires; Gardens enclosed and grapevines; companions of equal age; and a cup full to the brim. No vanity shall they hear therein, nor untruth. Recompense from your Lord, a gift, sufficient. [78:31-36] Four streams shall flow through the Paradise of the righteous for their drink and pleasure. A parable of the garden which the righteous are promised; in it are rivers of water incorruptible; rivers of milk of which the taste never changes; rivers of wine, a joy to those who drink; and rivers of honey pure and clear [47:15] Success and honor in both the temporal world and the Hereafter is based on taqwa. Hence, people should abandon all their worthless pursuits in this life and put all their efforts into practicing taqwa. Hadrat Yusuf AS Allah ta'ala says in the Holy Quran that Surah Yusuf is one that carries important and essential lessons for mankind. We relate unto you the most beautiful of stories [12:3] Herein is the story of two fellowships – that of Hadrat Yusuf and that of his brothers. Indeed, Hadrat Yusuf was only one man, but sometimes even one man can outweigh a company of many men because of his strength and fortitude as proved to be the case here. Hadrat Ibrahim e was only one man, but the Holy Quran says: Ibrahim was indeed a nation [16:120] Allah ta'ala tested Hadrat Yusuf’s brothers who resolved to kill their brother as a possible solution to their problem and consoled themselves by saying that they would repent later. Slay Yusuf or cast him out to some (unknown) land [12:9] Hence, the brothers committed a grave sin through which Hadrat Yusuf ewas tested severely, but he emerged successful through Allah’s grace and mercy. But she in whose house he was, sought to seduce him from his (true) self [12:23] Allah ta'ala further tested him through a woman’s charms, but Hadrat Yusuf also proved successful in this and the master was compelled to proclaim Hadrat Yusuf’s e sincerity. Yusuf! O man of truth! [12:46] The events that follow show that Hadrat Yusuf was not only freed from jail but also promoted to the post of Finance Minister over all of Egypt. By the wisdom Allah had bestowed upon him, he successfully steered Egypt through the years of abundance and then the years of famine, as had been foreshadowed in the king’s dream. The events that follow this are even more fascinating in the contrast that they present. The famine had been very severe on Hadrat Yusuf’s family, and so his brothers came to barter most of the family’s belongings for food. The money and other belongings that they brought were by no means enough to buy all the food that they wanted, and knowing this, they requested Hadrat Yusuf to be charitable in their time of need. Both the brothers and Hadrat Yusuf were sons of the same prophet, but the brothers had failed Allah’s ta'ala tests whereas Hadrat Yusuf had passed the tests. Now, Hadrat Yusuf was seated on a pedestal whilst his brothers were at his feet on the ground. Presenting themselves in this fashion, the brothers put their case of suffering and their request for charity to Hadrat Yusuf e. The Holy Quran records their conversation for posterity: O exalted one! [12:78] Distress has seized us and our family. We have brought but scanty capital, so pay us full measure and treat it as charity to us; Allah rewards the charitable [12:88] Upon hearing that their situation had become so dire, Hadrat Yusuf e asked: Know you how you dealt with Yusuf? [12:89] Are you indeed Yusuf? [12:90] Taken aback, the brothers asked if he was really the brother they had tried to kill. Hadrat Yusuf e revealed himself to them and also emphasized his relationship to his brother Binyamin. I am Yusuf and this is my brother [12:90] Hadrat Yusuf e said that Allah ta'ala rewards the patient and righteous. Allah ta'ala guarantees that the sacrifices and deeds of the righteous are never in vain. Never will Allah suffer the reward to be lost of those who do right and are patient [12:90] Taqwa and Nearness to Allah ta'ala The previous scholars and venerable sages (mashaikh) understood the importance of inculcating taqwa into their lives and endured tremendous hardship and sacrifice to do so and were thus successful. Today the Muslims have forgotten this important lesson and hence, are in a state of dishonor and disgrace. Hadrat Qasim Nanotvi, Hadrat Rashid Ahmed Gangohi, Hadrat Shaykh ul-Hind (May the mercy of Allah be upon them) and countless mashaikh of the past embodied taqwa and left magnificent examples that shine throughout time for the whole world. Yet, they studied from the same texts that students study from today, but the students of today are certainly not the caliber of the likes of Hadrat Nanotvi. The elders of the past were able to partake of the mercy of Allah ta'ala by deciphering the jewels and pearls of taqwa from within the holy texts, something which people have unfortunately forgotten today. Such great personalities would not even fill their stomachs with lawful earnings but yet, their progeny is satisfied from filling its belly with the unlawful. The progeny of great people who would not sleep but worship all night is satisfied with sleeping soundly all night in warm beds. It is indeed unfortunate that Muslims have forgotten so much. All the more reason to reflect and practice now before it is too late. Knowledge is a Thing Most Delicate Indeed, knowledge is a blessing to be treated delicately and with respect. None is to be pitied more than one who has acquired the knowledge and speech of an ‘aalim but his heart remains hard and ignorant. Hadrat Luqman e said that he had lifted the heaviest weights but found nothing to be heavier than knowledge. He also said that he had partaken of the sweetest dishes but found nothing as sweet as the remembrance of Allah ta'ala . Today, most Muslims wear some of the softest and richest clothing and eat the most exotic dishes and so, their hearts remain harder than stone. The Heart: A Place of Filth? RasulAllah a said that the heart is the seat of taqwa. Today, the heart of the common Muslim is filled with filthy desires that always put the nafs above Allah’s ta'ala wishes; The heart has truly become a wicked and filthy place. Purification of such a heart requires a sincere will and struggle to change the heart to the obedience and remembrance of Allah ta'ala. What are these images to which you are so devoted? [21:52] Angels of mercy do not enter a house in which there are pictures. Today Muslims have pictures and idols of lust and greed littering their hearts, so how can the Mercy of Allah be expected to descend onto such a filthy place that is already filled with others? Struggle and perseverance against the nafs is required to rectify such hearts and only then will taqwa take root therein. Muslims must sincerely practice what the Holy Quran says and hold themselves accountable before they are held accountable. Putting the Holy Quran into action in our daily lives is the only way to inculcate taqwa, and others will only listen when the speaker himself is a living and breathing example of what he is preaching. I advise myself first and then you [Hadith] If words fail to impact one’s own ears, how can they be expected to impact others? It should be that we listen to our own advice to others and reflect on the same. Along those same lines, we should ponder upon and implement what we read in the texts. Hadrat Maulana Anwar Shah Kashmiri A group of Hindus once accepted Islam at the hand of Hadrat Anwar Shah Kashmiri (May the mercy of Allah be upon him) and so someone asked them why they had done so. Pointing to their benefactor, Hadrat Kashmiri, they said that Hadrat’s face could not be that of a liar. These were the great personalities from Islam’s past, whose faces would glow with taqwa and shimmer from their acts of worship. Alas where are such people today? Definition of Taqwa Hadrat Umar ibn Khattab RA once asked Hadrat Ibn Ka’ab RA the definition of taqwa. In reply Hadrat Ibn Ka’ab RA asked, “Have you ever had to traverse a thorny path?” Hadrat Umar RA replied in the affirmative and Hadrat Ka’ab continued, “How do you do so?” Hadrat Uma rRA said that he would carefully walk through after first having collected all loose and flowing clothing in his hands so nothing gets caught in the thorns hence injuring him. Hadrat Ka’ab RA said, “This is the definition of taqwa, to protect oneself from sin through life’s dangerous journey so that one can successfully complete the journey unscathed by sin.” And your garments keep free from stain [74:4] Taqwa is the best protector and life companion, for it shall always guard against sin and evil. But the raiment of taqwa is best [7:26] Take a provision with you for the journey, but the best provision is taqwa [2:197] Being the ultimate guide to married life, Surah al-Nisa is decorated with references to taqwa every third to fourth verse, because the nurturing of taqwa is the key ingredient to the success of any marriage. Allah ta'ala warns us in the Holy Quran: And fear Allah and know that you are to meet Him [2:223] Hadrat Maulana Hafiz Ghulam Habib (May the mercy of Allah be upon him) used to define taqwa as the shunning of everything and anything that causes a deficiency in one’s relationship with Allah ta'ala. Taqwa is not merely a word or something associated with just a single act, but needs to be implemented from head to toe and throughout a person’s life. Whatever the human definition, Allah ta'ala provides a clear explanation of taqwa in the Holy Quran. Let Muslims turn to the Holy Quran for its divine guidance and explanation. It is not taqwa that you turn your faces toward East or West, but it is taqwa to believe in Allah and the Last Day, and the Angels, and the Book and the Messengers, to spend of your substance out of love for Him, for your kin, for orphans, for the needy, for the wayfarer, for those who ask, and for the ransom of slaves; to be steadfast in prayer and practice regular charity; to fulfill the contracts you have made; to be firm and patient, in pain and adversity. Those are the truthful and those are the righteous [2:177] Those who practice the divine words above are truly worthy of being called the truthful and the righteous. Those are the truthful [2:177] Those are the righteous [2:177] May Allah ta'ala give us all the ability to adhere to the Holy Quran and inculcate taqwa within ourselves. Ameen. [1] The heavenly part of Allah’s ta'ala creation that is created spontaneously and immediately by the Divine Command Be, and it is, including but not limited to the Throne and the Angels. This is in contrast to ‘Aalam-e-Khalq, the worldly creation that was created gradually over a period of time. tasawwuf.org

A Wounded Heart Maria Karim The sudden dreadful crying and screaming woke Zainab up. She lay on her bed, burying her face into the pillow, trying hard to block out the growing noise coming from the other room. It had hardly been two hours since she had cried herself to sleep. Her tender heart started pounding against her chest at the thought of what would follow this pattern. It was the norm; after her father came home, her mother would scream at him, he would yell back, and then it would get worse until she, being the eldest child, would intervene, crying and begging her parents to stop the awful fight, the reason for which those little children could never understand. Zainab had secretly prayed to Allah, subhanahu wa ta`ala (exalted is He), many times to take her back to Him. She somehow felt responsible for what was happening between her parents. Often, she felt that even Allah (swt) was not happy with her for her du`a’s (supplications) were not being accepted. The only thing she ever wanted was to see her parents happy and together. Whenever they were happy, she would hope time would freeze so she could preserve every bit of it, but unfortunately, the happy moments would not last for long before a simple disagreement would turn into a heated argument leading towards a terrible dispute. What really wounded her heart was when her parents held grudges against each other and complained to others about each other or when other people would gossip about her parents while disregarding her presence as she was a mere child, supposedly devoid of feelings or a sense of understanding. This infuriated her, and she started to accumulate hatred and resentment within herself. Her fear and anxiety grew as she could overhear the increasingly enraged arguments coming from the other room. “Stop! Please stop!” Zainab screamed in her mind, tightly clamping her hands around her throbbing head which felt like it would burst. Despite being huddled up in a warm and soft quilt she could feel her feet getting cold. Tears of anger, rage and distress were rolling down from the sides of her eyes fading away in the darkness while she lay there in the emptiness of her room hoping that the yelling from outside too would soon fade away. Sound Familiar? Does this sound familiar? Have you, as a child, felt the way Zainab was feeling? Or even worse, could your children be going through what Zainab was experiencing? Catastrophically, the innocent victim of such a battle is always a child, who has no role to play in a conflict between adults except to helplessly watch and get destroyed. Any Excuses? Whatever excuses parents might have to justify their perpetual conflicts, ill temper or regular tantrums, whether towards each other or directed towards their children as a result of being frustrated in a mutual relationship, are completely unacceptable and unjustifiable. Since they are the adults and they have been given the responsibility of raising a human being, they are liable for and therefore must be mindful of, not only the physical upbringing of their child, but also the psychological development including the spiritual growth and emotional enrichment of this little individual. Consequences! A child witnessing relentless unkind behavior, intolerance, exchange of harsh words, sarcasm, mistrust, offensive gestures, unpleasant treatment and/or indifference between his/her parents will most likely deal with multiple problems, such as: Lack of Religious Growth: Children from a disturbed household hardly become religious unless someone consciously channels them. Since they rarely see their parents ever turn to their Rabb (Sustainer) and exercise patience in times of distress, they cannot relate to this concept. Absence of Spiritual Connection: When children witness their parents trying to find peace through other means and relying on those means besides Allah (swt), they automatically relate to seeking peace and relying on ways and means other than the true source of khayr (goodness), their Creator. Loss of Self Confidence: Such children lose their confidence because they have been devoid of the kind of emotional support required to boost their ego and individuality. Low Self Esteem: The loss of dignity between parents or such a behavior pattern established by one of the parents gives birth to low self esteem in their child’s character, resulting in a feeling of worthlessness. Insecurity: When children witness ill treatment between their parents or by any one parent towards the other they feel insecure about their relationship with them and dread being the victim either directly or indirectly. They also feel worried about their parents or their siblings and feel powerless. Anxiety: A child observing domestic disorder whether emotional, verbal or physical is always on guard, watching and waiting for the next event to occur. He/she never knows what will trigger the abuse and therefore they never feel safe. Self doubt: When a child’s tender mind is not able to explain why his/her parents hardly get along, they sometimes start blaming themselves; that if they hadn’t done such and such the argument would not have started, or if they are unable to explain the reason for a fight they remain doubtful about the occurrence of it which leaves them confused and frustrated. The feeling of self doubt makes them feel humiliated and embarrassed. Resentment: Children experiencing a chaotic household become resentful towards either their siblings or one of the parents who they think are responsible for triggering an argument. They can possibly become enraged, short tempered and abusive as adults themselves. Suppression: Children experiencing domestic issues are always engrossed in coping with the stress at home. They are expected to keep the conflicts at home a secret. Consequently, this can turn them into inexpressive and suppressed beings. Intimidation: On the other hand, sometimes children who witness one of their parents as the victim at home, learn to grow up to be intimidating individuals themselves to get their way in an intimate relationship because children have a natural tendency to identify with strength. Controlling Behaviour: Knowing their strength, children from disturbed homes are prone to becoming controlling with their spouse. They have been brought up to feel anxious about relationships and therefore are desperate to take charge in order to preserve a relationship from disintegration. They feel that their controlling would help keep it intact. Vulnerability: These children feel isolated and vulnerable. They crave attention, validation and company. As both parents are consumed in their own survival, they are hardly emotionally available for the child. Therefore, the child is most likely to look for emotional dependency elsewhere. The above are only few of the many setbacks that a child from a disordered home goes through. The question is: do we want our children to experience this? The expected answer in all cases would be no. Then what are we, as parents, doing to prevent them from such experiences? Having said this, I do not intend to include the unique situation in which a spouse has a psychological disorder and the other spouse is expected to put up with them. Realistically speaking, how many of us face the above mentioned condition where we have zero control over our respective relationship? Truthfully, the genuine reason isn’t that we can’t avoid drastically damaging scenarios, but usually we choose not to prevent them as every dispute has a history of negative, unresolved events trailing behind it accompanied by insensitive, tactless and careless actions between the parents. Generally speaking, we are selfish individuals that are primarily concerned with catering first to our personal emotional and psychological needs. While in a conflict, we are either immersed in self-pity and depression or are trapped amidst the battle of egos, so we neglect the little hearts from being repeatedly aggrieved and wounded. Emotionally and physically drained, frustrated and exhausted from having to keep up with the relationship with our spouse, we become oblivious to the damaging impact our indifference towards each other might have on our child’s well-being. However, we must remind ourselves that our children are dependent on us in every single way for each little thing and realize the gravity and responsibility that parenthood holds. We cannot help the reaction of our spouse but what we can control is our attitude towards them or towards an unpleasant situation or experience. Obviously, it is not as simple as this statement and requires counseling and perhaps a series of articles to get into the intricacies of a relationship and its do’s and don’t’s. Nonetheless, the focus of this article is to highlight the traumatic conditions that children who experience domestic violence go through and its consequences. A child is similar to a soft lump of dough and just as we can mold it how we wish, it goes through what we make it go through. A lump of dough, when handled with love, care and wisdom can be beneficial, but if it is mishandled roughly and carelessly, it can prove to be just the opposite. Our children are an amanah (trust) from Allah (swt). They have been sent to us so that we can nurture them with love, respect, care and concern. We leave our impressions on them. We either leave our child with a well-nurtured body and soul, or we leave that child with a scarred soul and a wounded heart. The choice, of course, is ours.

Quotes on Taqwa Hadrat Hasan Basri said, Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (RA) said, Hadrat Maulana Hafiz Ghulam Habib (r.a.) used to define taqwa as Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat

Levels of Taqwaa

Sayyiduna Ali (R.A) defined Taqwa as being the "Fear of Jaleel (Allah), Acting upon the tanzeel (Quran), Being content with qaleel (little), And preparing for the day of raheel (journeying from this world)." Hadrat Umar ibn Khattab (R.A) once asked Hadrat Ibn Ka’ab (R.A) the definition of taqwa. In reply Hadrat Ibn Ka’ab asked, “Have you ever had to traverse a thorny path?” Hadrat Umar replied in the affirmative and Hadrat Ka’ab continued, “How do you do so?” Hadrat Umar said that he would carefully walk through after first having collected all loose and flowing clothing in his hands so nothing gets caught in the thorns hence injuring him. Hadrat Ka’ab said, “This is the definition of taqwa, to protect oneself from sin through life’s dangerous journey so that one can successfully complete the journey unscathed by sin.” The renowned Companion Abdullah Ibn Abbas radiallahu anhu would say that; "The reality of Taqwaa is that one obeys Allah and does not disobey Him. He remembers Allah and does not forget Him, and he thanks Allah and is not ungrateful to Him"