ummtaalib

Using an oxygen inhaler while fasting Q. A brother has to inhale oxygen whenever he sleeps. The oxygen has to be inhaled by him as long as he is sleeping. He cannot sleep without oxygen. This procedure is permanent. Now, does this oxygen inhaling break his fast or not? As you know oxygen is only air. He says there is no medication mixed in it. Please reply asap? (Question published as received) A. In the above referred, we have consulted a doctor. We are advised that the oxygen contains only air and does not contain any form of medication. As such, the oxygen inhaled does not nullify ones fast. (Mabsoot 3/93) And Allah Knows Best Mufti Ismaeel Bassa Confirmation: Mufti Ebrahim Desai Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN)

Using a Drip whilst Fasting Q: Does the use of a drip whilst fasting nullify the fast? A: Using a drip whilst fasting does not nullify the fast. والمفطر إنما هو الداخل من المنافذ (رد المحتار على در المختار ج2 ص395) وما وصل إلى الجوف أو إلى الدماغ من المخارق الأصلية كالأنف والأذن والدبر بأن استعط أو احتقن أو أقطر في أذنه فوصل إلى الجوف أو إلى الدماغ فسد صومه (بدائع الصنائع ج2 ص 93) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

26th Night Taraweeh Summary More than half of the 30th para will be recited in this Taraaweeh (i.e. till Surah Qadr, the 97th Surah of the Qur'aan). In Surah Naba (Surah Amma), Allaah says that the punishment of Jahannam has been prepared for those people who deny the truth of Islam. When the trumpet is sounded for the Day of Qiyaamah, the skies will be divided into many roads through which people will pass in droves towards the Plain of Resurrection. The deeds of every person will be disclosed and Allaah will decide what punishment or rewards every person will deserve. Surah Naazi’aat follows Surah Naba with the message that people will regard their lives in this world to be a mere morning or evening when they face the torturously long Day of Qiyaamah. The severity of the Day of Qiyaamah will cause people’s heart to tremble. They will recall their deeds of this world and will regret whatever they did because Jahannam will be shown to them. In the subsequent Surahs Allaah tells Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) that people with affluence and authority are beguiled by what they have and therefore have a diminished capacity for accepting good counsel. On the other hand, poor people tend to accept more readily. Therefore, devote more attention to those who have more fear for Allaah so that they may attain spiritual purity. When Qiyaamah will take place, none shall be of assistance to another; even though they may be brothers, parents, children or spouses. Every person will be too concerned about his own predicament to be worried about another. The faces of the Mu'mineen and the pious will be resplendent on that day while the faces of the kuffaar and sinners will be darkened. Allaah points out to people that they will have to tread the straight path to be saved from the anguish and suffering of the Day of Qiyaamah. On the Day of Qiyaamah the sky will be rent asunder, bodies will rise from their graves, the stars will plummet down and the oceans will be ablaze. Every person will be confronted by his deeds on the Plain of Resurrection when none will want to know another. Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the 26th night of Taraaweeh Download Now In Surah Mutaffifeen Allaah condemns those who cheat when weighing and measuring, and warns them of a terrible punishment. Allaah cautions mankind to beware of the day when they will all rise from their graves and stand before Allaah to account for every deed. On that day it will be the Mu'mineen who will have a turn to laugh at the kuffaar who scoffed at them in this world. The sky will be cleaved open when the trumpet is sounded and corpses will be flung from their graves. Whereas the pious shall be quickly relieved of the formalities of the Day of Qiyaamah, the sinful ones will be flung into the fire of Jahannam. These were the very people who thought that they will never be returned to Allaah. Allaah says further that those who harass believing men and women without repenting afterwards shall suffer a terrible torment in the Hereafter. Allaah also mentions that the Qur'aan is a lofty book that is preserved in the Lawhul Mahfoodh. The Qur'aan distinguishes between right and wrong and those who still adamantly adhere to the wrong shall be only granted a little respite. Allaah commands Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to glorify His praises and assures him that he will never forget the Qur'aan. Allaah further instructs Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to continue propagating the Deen for Allaah shall open up avenues of ease for him. Allaah urges people to ponder over Allaah’s creation so that they may recognise Him. Allaah says, “Have they not looked how the camel is created? And how the sky has been elevated? And how the mountains have been rooted? And how the earth has been levelled?” [surah Ghaashiya, verses 17 to 20] All these signs are for people to take heed before they are taken to task on the Day of Qiyaamah. Allaah admonishes man for his excessive preoccupation in material wealth because it leads him to abuse inheritance and refuse help to the poor and orphans. However, Allaah has granted man the capacity to do good and refrain from evil. Therefore, whoever purifies his soul will be successful, while those who are negligent thereof will be at a permanent loss. Allaah advises people to spend their wealth only for His pleasure and for no other motives. None should be proud about being able to do good because only Allaah grants people the ability to lend a helping hand to the needy. Allaah assures Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) that Allaah will soon confer on him a bounty that will please him and that he should never feel that Allaah has forsaken him because Allaah has always been there for him. Allaah has illuminated his heart, alleviated his worries and elevated his name. Allaah consoles Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) [as well as all Muslims at large] that ease always follows hardship. Therefore, a person’s attention should always focus on Allaah.

25th Night Taraweeh Summary The 29th para is recited in this Taraaweeh. Allaah says in Surah Mulk that there is none to replace the innumerable bounties of His if He should ever snatch them away from people. People should therefore trust in Allaah only because He has created both life and death and only He controls them. Surah Qalam makes it clear that the character of Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) is the highest in calibre. Allaah also instructs Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to exercise patience and not to supplicate to Allaah in anger, as Hadhrat Yunus (A.S) did. The Surah also warns the kuffaar about the punishment they stand to face in this world as well as in the Hereafter. A startling description of Qiyaamah is given in Surah Haaqa, where Allaah also speaks of the punishment that the kuffaar will receive and the rewards that will accrue to the pious. Allaah concludes the Surah by stating that the Qur'aan is definitely a revelation from Allaah and neither a composition of a poet nor the ramblings of a fortune-teller. In Surah Ma’aarij Allaah says that man is a weak creature who becomes perplexed when facing any adversity and miserly when enjoying good fortune. Allaah warns all miserly people who hoard their wealth that they should beware of the terrible fire of Jahannam which will strip off their skins. Surah Nooh recounts the story of Hadhrat Nooh (A.S) who tirelessly preached to his people for a long time. However, the wretched people refused to accept his message and relentlessly opposed him. Constrained by their incorrigible attitude, Hadhrat Nooh (A.S) eventually prayed to Allaah to destroy them. As a result of this they were drowned in a deluge which only spared the faithful ones with Hadhrat Nooh (A.S) in the ark. Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the 25th night of Taraaweeh Download Now Surah Jinn speaks of the praises that some Jinn lauded about the Qur'aan when they heard Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) reciting it. They believed in the Qur'aan and attested to Allaah’s oneness. The Surah also makes it clear that only Allaah possesses knowledge of the unseen. Of course, Allaah does impart a bit of this knowledge to His Ambiya (A.S) by means of divine revelation. In Surah Muddathir, Allaah addresses Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) as the one who is shrouded in a blanket. Allaah commands Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to propagate Islam and to hymn the praises of Allaah’s glory and grandeur. Allaah also commands Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to abstain from all impurities and to behave kindly towards people without expecting anything in return. As in many previous Surahs, Allaah urges Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to patiently endure the harassment of the kuffaar without retaliation. The Surah also stresses that the Qur'aan is a book of guidance that will benefit those people whom Allaah leads aright. With a different word, Allaah again addresses Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) as one shrouded in a blanket. Allaah commands Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to stand in salaah for half the night or less, and to recite the Qur'aan in slow measured tones. Worshipping Allaah during the night is an effective means of purifying the soul and readily accepted by Allaah. Allaah also encourages zakaah and spending in charity because any good deed will be of tremendous benefit in the Hereafter. In Surah Qiyaamah Allaah instructs Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) that he should not exert himself to immediately repeat the words of revelation when it is revealed to him. He was to listen attentively, whereafter Allaah would ensure that he remembered everything. Allaah says in Surah Dahar that He instilled the capacity to discern between right and wrong in every person. Man therefore has the choice to either be grateful to Allaah or ungrateful. However, the ungrateful will have to suffer punishment for their ingratitude while the grateful will be immensely rewarded with the eternal bliss of Jannah. Allaah lauds the Mu'mineen who, despite their own need, assist the needy without expecting remuneration or even a word of thanks in return. The para concludes with Surah Mursalaat, which confirms that Qiyaamah will definitely take place. It will be a day when Allaah’s judgement will be decisive and binding. Whoever wishes to be obedient shall be such. On the other hand, those people whose evil deeds have surrounded them shall remain rebellious and will have to face the punishment for their deeds.

Compensating for Fasts missed due to Illness Q: Due to illness a person is unable to fast. How does he compensate for the missed fasts? A: A person who is terminally ill and is unable to fast will compensate by giving fidyah for each missed fast. The amount of fidyah is equal to Sadaqatul fitr. If the person recovers from the illness then it will be obligatory on him to make Qadha of the missed fasts. (Ahsanul Fataawa vol.4 pg.442, Bahishti Zewar vol.3 pg.20) فالشيخ الفاني الذي لايقدر على الصيام يفطر ويطعم لكل يوم مسكينا كما يطعم في الكفارة (الفتاوى الهندية ج2 ص207) (ولو مات و عليه صلوات فائتة وأوصى بالكفارة يعطي لكل صلوة نصف صاع من بر) كالفطرة (وكذا حكم الوتر) والصوم (در المختار ج2 ص72) (وللشيخ الفاني العاجز عن الصوم الفطر ويفدي) وجوبا ولو بأول الشهر قال في الشامي: أي الذي فنيت قوته أو أشرف على الفناء ولذا عرفوه بأنه الذي كل يوم في نقص إلى أن يموت ومثله ما في القهستاني عن الكرماني المريض إذا تحقق اليأس من الصحة فعليه الفدية لكل يوم من المرض نهر (رد المحتار على در المختار ج2 ص427) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

Good and Bad Qualities and Shaytan’s Influence QUESTION If you do something in someone’s absence, however small, which negatively affects that person (even if stepping on his other shoes by mistake – but out of carelessness/negligence) but he may never find out that you did that, might you ever be taken to task, maybe in the day of judgement where I believe all truths will be disclosed? This is one of the issues due to which I have found myself spending extra time in worrying about- e.g. in making sure I leave the bathroom basin perfectly rinsed (for the next person to use) etc. I sometimes wonder whether shaytan is making me do these things to make the deen look difficult to me as well as to those that see me doing these things. And is there a difference if there is malicious intent involved, in doing the action, whatever it may be? ANSWER In the name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful, The beloved of Allah, the best of creation, our beloved Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) has set a perfect example for all of us. His character, manners, behaviour and his life in general is a milestone for every Muslim male and female. Thus, lying, deception, misleading, backbiting, hatred, jealousy, enmity, evil suspicion, harming with intent, breaking a promise, breaching a trust, not fulfilling a covenant, slandering, vulgar language, tale-bearing, breaking of ties, deserting a fellow Muslim, pride, arrogance, miserliness, unlawful taking of someone’s wealth, etc… are all sinful acts and must be avoided. Sayyiduna Abd Allah ibn Umar (Allah be pleased with him) narrates that the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) said: “A (complete) believer is he from whose mouth and hand other believers stay safe.” (Sahih al-Bukhari) Sayyiduna Abd Allah ibn Amr (Allah be pleased with him) narrates that the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) said: “Four traits, if found in an individual, then he will be a complete hypocrite (munafiq), and if an individual possesses one of these four, he will have one portion of nifaq: When he is given a trust he breaches it, when he speaks he leis, when he makes an agreement (ahd) he is guilty of treachery and disloyalty (gadar), and when he disputes he is fouled mouth.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, no. 34) On the other hand, qualities such as: Good manners, good character, humility, politeness, kindness, assisting others, mercy, respect of others, gratefulness, generosity, forgiving others, modesty, etc are a hallmark of every Muslim. Therefore, one must ensure that the former-mentioned sinful acts are avoided, and implement the good qualities mentioned latterly as mush as possible. If one does so, then Insha Allah, one will see the fruits of this in this world and the hereafter. As far as what you have mentioned about stepping on someone’s shoes, in normal circumstances you don’t have to disclose this to the owner. However, if some damage was done to the shoes, then you should reveal this to the owner of the shoes. Leaving the bathroom, basin, etc clean is surely commendable and included in the good qualities one should aspire to achieve. However, don’t get too paranoid about this, for this could have an adverse effect, and distract you from your other obligatory duties. Thus, refrain from the unlawful and sinful acts (mentioned in the first list) and try your best to gain the good the qualities. And Allah Knows Best [Mufti] Muhammad ibn Adam Darul Iftaa Leicester , UK Source

Does Smoking Break the Fast? Q: Does smoking invalidate the fast? If so will both Qadha and Kaffarah be necessary or only Qadha? A: Smoking nullifies the fast. Both Qadha and Kaffarah become Waajib. ومفاده أنه لو أدخل حلقه الدخان أي دخان كان ولو عودا أو عنبرا لو ذاكرا لإمكان التحرز عنه قال في الشامي: اي بأي صورة كان الإدخال حتى لو تبخر ببخور فآواه إلى نفسه واشتمه ذاكرا لصومه أفطر لإمكان التحرز عنه (رد المحتار على در المختار ج2 ص395) ويظهر من ذلك أن مرادهم بما يتغذى به ما يكون فيه صلاح البدن بأن كان مما يؤكل عادة على قصد التغذي أو التداوي أو التلذذ (رد المحتار على در المختار ج2 ص410) (أو دخل حلقه دخان بلا صنعه لعدم قدرته على الامتناع عنه فصار كبلل بقي في فمه بعد المضمضة لدخوله من الأنف إذا أطبق الفم وفيما ذكرنا إشارة إلى من أدخل بصنعه دخانا حلقه بأي صورة كان الإدخال فسد صومه سواء كان دخان عنبر أو عود أو غيرهما (مراقي الفلاح ص660) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

24th Night Taraweeh Summary The 28th para is recited in this Taraaweeh. Surah Mujaadala begins this para. Allaah states that it is foolish for any person to refer to his wife as his mother (as a method of separating from her). If a man does this, it will be haraam for him to cohabit with his wife till he pays the required Kaffaara. The Kaffaara is that he frees a slave (male or female), fasts for two consecutive months or feeds sixty poor people. Thereafter, Allaah teaches the etiquette of gatherings and warns people against hosting secret meetings to plot against Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) or to commit other sins. Allaah says that such meetings are amongst the acts of Shaytaan. In Surah Hashar thereafter, Allaah states that the true Mu'mineen are those people who assist the Muslims who migrate for Allaah and His Prophet (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam). They are people who do not straiten their hearts despite living in straitened circumstances. Rather, they give preference to others above themselves. The Munafiqeen are completely different because they display the traits of Shaytaan. They encourage people to perpetrate evil deeds and then excuse themselves saying that they have nothing to do with these people. Allaah urges people to take heed to the advice of the Qur'aan, which is so mighty that it can crush mountains under its weight. Surah Mumtahina begins after Surah Hashar. Allaah tells the Mu'mineen in this Surah that they should terminate all secretive contact with the kuffaar after migrating to Madinah. The kuffaar are enemies to the Muslims and will never be their allies. A Muslim can never trust a kaafir because the ambition of the kaafir is to convert the Muslim into a kaafir like himself/herself. Allaah also states that the faith of a woman should be tested when she migrates to the Muslims. If she is found to be sincere, she should be allowed to remain amongst the Muslims. Addressing the Mu'mineen in Surah Saff, Allaah admonishes them for claiming to do such things that they have not done. This is an extremely serious crime in Allaah’s sight. Allaah loves those Mu'mineen who stand together like a fortified wall when facing the enemy in jihaad. Allaah then quotes Hadhrat Isa (A.S) who prophesised the advent of Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to the Bani Israa'eel; referring to Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) as “Ahmed”. Allaah terminates the Surah by assuring the Mu'mineen that the kuffaar will never be able to extinguish Allaah’s light and that He will definitely grant them victory over their enemies. Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the 24th night of Taraaweeh Download Now In Surah Jumu’ah, Allaah explicitly states, “O you who believe! When you are called for salaah on the day of Jumu’ah (Friday) then hasten towards Allaah’s remembrance and leave all trade. This is best for you if you only knew. So when the salaah has been completed then spread out on earth and seek from Allaah’s bounty (sustenance) and remember Allaah in abundance so that you may succeed.” [verses 9 and 10] The concluding verse of the Surah states: “Allaah is the Best Sustainer”. Allaah addresses Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) in Surah Munafiqoon, warning him to beware of them. Allaah says that the words and deeds of the Munafiqeen contradict their thoughts and feelings. They falsely take solemn oaths in Allaah’s name whereas they are devoid of Imaan. In Surah Taghaabun Allaah states that only He created everyone. Allaah made some people kuffaar and made others Mu'mineen with wealth and children as tests for them. Allaah will forgive those people who are rightly guided. Allaah mentions in Surah Talaaq that husbands should only divorce their wives while the wives are not menstruating. The Iddah should be meticulously observed and it will be regarded as an act of immorality if a woman has to emerge from her home during the Iddah. The Iddah of a non-menstruating divorcee is three months, while the Iddah of a pregnant divorcee will terminate as soon as she delivers. The husband will have to maintain his pregnant wife after the divorce until she delivers his child. Addressing Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) in Surah Tahreem, Allaah tells him not to forsake Allaah’s bounties for the sake of his wives. Allaah also tells Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) that he should pay the Kaffaara to be absolved from his vow. Allaah cautions that any person who wishes to oppose Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) will have to face the resistance of Allaah, Hadhrat Jibra'eel (A.S) and all the pious Muslims at large.

Turning Back to Allāh قُلْ يَا عِبَادِيَ الَّذِينَ أَسْرَفُوا عَلَىٰ أَنفُسِهِمْ لَا تَقْنَطُوا مِن رَّحْمَةِ اللَّهِ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ يَغْفِرُ الذُّنُوبَ جَمِيعًا ۚ إِنَّهُ هُوَ الْغَفُورُ الرَّحِيمُ. وَأَنِيبُوا إِلَىٰ رَبِّكُمْ وَأَسْلِمُوا لَهُ مِن قَبْلِ أَن يَأْتِيَكُمُ الْعَذَابُ ثُمَّ لَا تُنصَرُونَ Say: “(Thus speaks Allāh:) ‘O my servants who have transgressed against your own selves! Despair not of Allāh’s mercy: behold, Allāh forgives all sins. Surely, He is the One who is the Most-Forgiving, the Very-Merciful. Hence, turn towards your Sustainer (alone) and surrender yourselves unto Him before the suffering (of death and resurrection) comes upon you, for then you will not be helped.”(Az- Zumar, 39:53-54) This is such a reassuring message for those who have sinned. By sinning we transgress against our own selves. But the All Merciful Allāh will still turn to us with mercy if we turn to Him in repentance. He is Most-Forgiving; there is no sin He will not forgive if we sincerely seek His forgiveness and take corrective action. The pencil which has been given to us to draw the course of our life’s journey does come with a huge eraser. It lasts as long as the pencil itself. There are no signs on the highway of life that prohibit a U-turn. No matter how messed up our lives may have been, we can always correct course. The door to repentance is always open—until the very end of our life. But if we wait too long and the end comes in sight, then repentance will not help. Qur'an Reflections Al-Balagh

Important Zakaat Clarification – What is Hawlaanul Hawl? In Arabic there is a terminology that occurs commonly when discussing Zakaat. This terminology, Hawlaanul Hawl, literally means the passing of a year. In the context of Zakaat, it refers to wealth being in a person’s possession for the duration of an entire lunar year. In our experience, this terminology is perhaps the most misunderstood concept when it comes to Zakaat calculation. Many people, based on the incorrect understanding of this concept, believe that wealth attained during the course of the year will not be Zakaatable unless one entire year passes with that wealth in one’s possession. An example to illustrate this is, Abdullah pays his Zakaat every year on the 10th of Ramadaan (which falls on 27 June 2015 this year). In January 2015, Abdullah received a lump sum of R150 000.00 from a deceased relative’s estate. When Abdullah calculated his Zakaat on the 27th of June 2015, he excluded the R150 000.00, which he had saved, as according to his understanding, that amount was not Zakaatable. Abdullah’s understanding is incorrect. Hawlaanul Hawl merely means that a person should have excess wealth that is more than the Zakaat Nisaab for the entire year. If this is found, then all wealth that accumulates during the year will be added to one’s Zakaatable assets and Zakaat will have to be paid on it. Therefore, as Abdullah was already paying Zakaat, he will add the R150 000.00 in to his Zakaat calculation and pay Zakaat on that amount as well. This ruling applies to all monies received prior to the date of one’s Zakaat calculation as well as monies received on the day one calculates his Zakaat. In essence, one will pay Zakaat on all money that one possesses on day of Zakaat calculation, irrespective of when that money was received. Simply put, the Zakaatable amount is whatever amount you have at the time of Zakaat calculation. Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians 223 Alpine Road, Overport Durban, South Africa

Pearls of Ramadān (2) Guidance and advice for the Blessed Month from Hadrat Mawlānā Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullāh Time for Taqwā The common definition of taqwā is to abstain from the disobedience to Allāh ta‘ālā, be it minor or major. In the initial stages, this may seem difficult to carry out. However, when one strives and compels his nafs to obey Allāh ta‘ālā, then as a result he will achieve the actual taqwā wherein Allāh ta‘ālā will enlighten the heart with the light of taqwā. Once this happens, one will no longer have to struggle to the same extent to avoid sins as before; rather the heart will develop a disliking for them. It is like the prospect of walking through a narrow alleyway with damp and filthy walls. You will be repulsed at the very thought, but even if you were compelled to walk through it and some filth touches your clothing, you will not be able to rest until it is washed off. Similarly, the person whose heart is enlightened with taqwā will have an aversion to sins, and even if he were to slip and commit a sin, he will not be able to rest until he repents and purifies his heart from the filth of sin. There is no better time to adorn the heart with true taqwā than the precious moments of Ramadān. If you truly value Ramadān, inshā’allāh, you will become a true muttaqī. Precious, Precious Moments Every moment of our life is very precious, as each second can potentially be used to acquire the pleasure of Allāh ta‘ālā and earn great reward. However, during Ramadān these moments become even more precious. This is why we should take great care to use the very precious moments of Ramadān wisely. Value Time The last ten days of Ramadān are the cream of Ramadān. Make the most of them. Value every moment; for who knows, you may not be here next year. In order to make these days more productive follow these simple advices: • Perform as much ‘ibādah as possible. • Spend as much time in the masjid as possible. • Avoid every sinful activity. A large tank full of milk with a few drops of urine or alcohol mixed in is completely useless. Similarly, a tank full of ‘ibādah mixed with a few ‘drops’ of sin will have no value. • Stay away from the internet. Many people use the internet with good intentions and for good reasons, and end up on sites that cause them to sin. We move from site to site without even realising that we are committing sins. For example, how often do we see an image of a non-mahram on the internet? Even that is a sin. Furthermore, the internet is such a "time waster" that we log on for only a few minutes, but hours pass by without us even realising. • Emails can also waste time. Stay away from answering unnecessary emails; they can wait until after Ramadān. • Try to minimise mixing with people. Overtime in Ramadān When we have the opportunity to do overtime at work and earn time and a half or double pay, we ensure we do not miss out on the additional income. In Ramadān, a fard action is worth seventy times its value and a nafl action is worth the same as a fard action on a normal day. Despite the huge increase in rewards, we do not find the zeal to do anything extra for our ākhirah; in stark contrast to our readiness to do overtime for financial gain. Ramadān Festivals Sometimes, Ramadān or ‘Īd festivals are organised during the last ten days of Ramadān. As a result, people waste precious moments and lose out on the blessings of the last ten days of Ramadān. Often these events take place at the time of tarāwīh and are for sisters only, resulting in them missing tarāwīh and also the opportunity to find Laylat-ul-Qadr. We should refrain from such events as they are nothing but a deceit of Shaytān in order to divert us from our true goal. Special Offers Some people frequent restaurants and takeaways during the night, attracted by special offers. Such offers deprive them of the great treasures offered by Allāh ta‘ālā for performing tarāwīh and tahajjud. In addition, many involve themselves in sin and lā ya‘nī (futile activities) and waste any spiritual benefits they had gained that day. © At-Tazkiyah

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

Pearls of Ramadān (1) Guidance and advice for the Blessed Month from Hadrat Mawlānā Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullāh Yearning For Ramadān Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam used to make du‘ā in Rajab to be given the opportunity to live until Ramadān. Having already seen Allāh ta‘ālā during the night of mi‘rāj, it is beyond imagination how much desire he sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam had to leave this world and meet Allāh ta‘ālā. Despite this, when he sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam would find himself only two months away from the blessed month of Ramadān, he sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam would desire to be given leave in this world in order to benefit from the innumerable bounties and blessings of Ramadān. This should help us understand the extraordinary nature of the blessings of Ramadān and encourage us to yearn for it and benefit from it. True Appreciation of Ramadān My honourable father rahimahullāh would eagerly anticipate the arrival of Ramadān and express immense happiness upon its commencement. You could tell from his behaviour that it was the month of Ramadān; he would talk very little and be constantly engaged in good deeds. He would value every moment. The atmosphere at home was like i‘tikāf throughout the month of Ramadān. When the blessed month would end he would shed tears of sorrow. All this was because he had understood the value of Ramadān. We should follow this example to truly value each and every moment of Ramadān. Valuing Ramadān The month of Ramadān is a month of blessings, mercy and forgiveness. If we fail to utilise it correctly, it will pass without us realising what valuable and precious moments we have wasted. What has passed cannot return, and what is lost cannot be re-acquired. Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam has said: This is a month, the first (10 days) of which is mercy, the middle (10 days) of which is forgiveness and the last (10 days) of which is deliverance from the Fire of Jahannam. (Al-Bayhaqī) From the first of Ramadān, the Mercy of Allāh ta‘ālā descends upon those very pious servants who have no sins in their book of deeds. As far as the sinners are concerned, they are of two types: sinners of a lesser degree, and those who are so engrossed in sin that were they to die in their present condition they would go straight into the Fire of Jahannam. The sins of the first category of sinners are forgiven after their striving during the first 10 days of Ramadān. As for the sinners of the second category upon whom Jahannam is incumbent, after striving for 20 days, Allāh’s ta‘ālā forgiveness enshrouds them and they too are granted deliverance from the Fire of Jahannam. How merciful is Allāh ta‘ālā! We ask Allāh ta‘ālā that He grant us Jannat-ul-Firdaws with His eternal Pleasure and save us from the Fire of Jahannam. Āmīn. Counting Days We should spend the month of Ramadān with enthusiasm. Unfortunately, many people regard it as a burden, and eagerly count down the days for it to finish. Our pious predecessors used to feel grief and sadness at the passing of each day of Ramadān, whereas we feel a burden is being lifted with each day that goes by. They would say in sorrow: “Only 15 days left now, Only 14 days left now...” while we say the same out of relief. Memorable Ramadān Make this Ramadān a memorable one. Make it a Ramadān you will remember for the rest of your life and inshā’allāh, even in Jannah you will say that it was this Ramadān in which Allāh ta‘ālā made me His walī, and the point from when my life changed for the better. In order to do this two things are necessary: 1. Abstain from every sin, be it minor or major. Do not even think about sinning. 2. Stay away from every futile activity that neither benefits in this world nor the hereafter. In order to achieve the above, three things are necessary: 1. Stay away from impious company and sinful environments. 2. Avoid gatherings and mixing with people. 3. Safeguard your tongue, eyes and ears. Speak only when it is absolutely necessary and listen and look at only those things which are permissible. © At-Tazkiyah

POWERFUL REMINDER!!! This is not the night to tweet pics or update FB statuses about how amazing the night is and how you are feeling & worshipping Allah! Let that be a secret between you & your Rabb! So switch off those phones, wifi, laptops and computers. Disconnect with the world, and connect with Al-‘Afuww!

Powerful tips for the last 10 nights 1. Do not let your ‘performance’ until now affect your last 10 days. The moment of forgiveness could be today or anytime in the coming days! It is not all lost! If you sincerely wish it could have been better – Chin up and get ready to make it your best yet! Start with a positive, sincere intention! 2. Today, take a little time to read the Tafseer of Surah al-Qadr to understand what actually happens this night! You will feel its power & greatness so much more! 3. Do not wait for the 27th Night to give it your “all”. The entire last 10 days should be your target. Stay up each night! Would you want to miss Laylatul Qadr even “by chance”? 4. Do not fall into any innovations/celebrations any Masjid or culture might try to promote. Follow the Sunnah! The Prophet (sallAllahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) guided us simply: “Whoever stays up and prays on Laylat al-Qadr out of faith and in the hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim) 5. Memorize and keep asking the Du’a taught by Rasoolullah (sallAllahu ‘alaihi wa sallam): Allaahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibb al-‘afwa fa’affu ‘anni (O Allaah, You are forgiving and You love forgiveness, so forgive me). 6. Prepare a short Du’a list. Remember this is as awesome as it ever gets for a servant of Allah! The Night of Qadr, of Destiny! Consciously pick each and everything you crucially wish for in this dunya, in your deen, family, and in your aakhirah! Don’t forget to include the brothers and sisters around the world who are suffering and in grief! 7. Take brief naps during the day, if possible. Keep your stomach light and sleep as soon as you have prayed ‘isha. Do not delay! After a brief nap, refresh yourself and get ready for worship. 8. Don’t neglect your family! Rasoolullah (sallAllahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) made it a point to wake up his wives throughout these nights! And yes, your children are not too young to stay up some part of the night – if they can be allowed to play video games or watch TV, they can be inspired to be up at least for sometime! Prepare them, make them excited, plan some activities for them to do! 9. Choose a spot, whether in the Masjid or in your home, where you can have peace and solitude. Keep your mushaf, praying mat, and water at hand so that you are not distracted by constantly getting up for this or that. 10. IMP: This is not the night to tweet pics or update FB statuses about how amazing the night is and how you are feeling & worshipping Allah! Let that be a secret between you & your Rabb! So switch off those phones, wifi, laptops and computers. Disconnect with the world, and connect with Al-‘Afuww! 11. If you find yourself feeling sleepy, vary your acts of worship. Alternate between Qiyaam, heartfelt Du’aa, reading the Qur’an. Do not spend the night listening to lectures or recitations. Or do it only for a short while when you feel the sleep coming on! 12. Patience is the Key: The last 10 days might be tiring. You might still have work or school. This is the time to bear all that hardship, and keep firm Sabr. Think how Allah has blessed you with this tremendous opportunity that might NEVER come again in your life again. If you knew for sure that this was your last Ramadan, if you knew certainly that Jannah was up for grabs, wouldn’t you sprint for it no matter what it takes? 13. This is most important: Keep Husn Adh-Dhann Bi Allah (good expectations from Allah). When you ask, remember you are asking the Most Generous King. If you hope for the best, He will give you the best. Don’t hold back. Trust in Him, pour out your heart in front of Him, and let no doubt, no barrier, no evil thoughts keep you away from Ar-Rahman, Ar-Raheem! islaaminfo

Discharging Sadaqatul Fitr of one's Family Q: If a father discharges sadaqatul fitr on behalf of his wife and baaligh children without their permission, will the sadaqatul fitr be discharged? A: He should take their permission before discharging the sadaqatul fitr. However if he did not take their permission, the sadaqatul fitr will only be discharged in the case where he was supporting them. ( تجب ) … ( لا عن زوجته ) وولده الكبير العاقل ولو أدى عنهما بلا إذن أجزأ استحسانا للإذن عادة أي لو في عياله وإلا فلا (الدر المختار 2/363) ولا يؤدي عن زوجته ولا عن أولاده الكبار وإن كانوا في عياله ولو أدى عنهم أو عن زوجته بغير أمرهم أجزأهم استحسانا كذا في الهداية وعليه الفتوى كذا في فتاوى قاضي خان (الفتاوى الهندية 1/193, فتاوى رحيمية 7/197) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

Discharging Sadaqatul Fitr of others without Permission Q: If a person discharges sadaqatul fitr on behalf of someone other than his dependents (i.e. his wife and children) without their permission, will the sadaqatul fitr be discharged? A: The sadaqatul fitr will not be discharged. ولا يجوز أن يعطي عن غير عياله إلا بأمره كذا في المحيط (الفتاوى الهندية 1/193) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

The False Black Flags Does the narration by Hadrat 'Ali (Radhiyallaahu 'anhu) which is narrated by Nu'aym ibn Hammad in his Kitab Al Fitan refer to the ISIS? "It is related on the authority of ‘Ali ibn Abi Talib (may Allah ennoble his countenance): ‘When you see the black flags, remain where you are and do not move your hands or your feet (It’s a common phrase meaning: “Stay put and don’t get involved in the fighting”). Thereafter there shall appear a feeble folk to whom no concern is given. Their hearts will be like fragments of iron. They are the representatives of the State (Aṣ'ḥab al-Dawla). They will fulfill neither covenant nor agreement. They will invite to the Truth, though they are not from its people. Their names will be agnomens [i.e., Abu Mus'ab, Abu Bakr, etc.], and their ascriptions will be to villages (or places) [i.e., al-Misri, al-Harrani, al-Baghdadi, etc.]. Their hair will be long like that of women. [They shall remain so] till they differ among themselves, and then Allah will bring forth the truth from whomever He wills." See attachment THE FALSE BLACK FLAGS28April2015.pdf

23rd Night Taraweeh Summary The 27th para is recited in this Taraaweeh. The para opens with the incident of Hadhrat Ibraheem (A.S), when some angels visited him in the guise of humans and informed him of the imminent birth of his son Hadhrat Is'haaq (A.S). When he asked them what their mission was, they replied that they were out to rain a shower of stones upon the nation of Hadhrat Loot (A.S). They were therefore sent to punish these people. Allaah then relates the incidents of Hadhrat Moosa (A.S), the Aad, the Thamud and the nation of Hadhrat Nooh (A.S). The Surah expounds Allaah’s greatness, establishes Tauheed and Risaalah and then describes the purpose of man’s creation in the following words: “I have only created man and jinn to worship Me.” [verse 56] Allaah stresses that He sustains all and does not require sustenance from anyone. Surah Toor commences next wherein Allaah warns the rejecters of the Day of Qiyaamah that the day will be so severe that the heavens and the earth will tremble and mountains will fly about like cotton-wool. The kuffaar will be shoved into Jahannam and the punishment will be severe for those who falsify the truth. It is only foolish people who will harass a messenger who only wishes well for them. Those who reject the truth are really evil in nature. Allaah urges Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to be patient and assures him that he will certainly be assisted. Surah Najm thereafter makes mention of the miraculous journey of Mi’raaj. Allaah says that Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) has neither gone astray nor erred and that he drew so close to Allaah that there scarcely remained the distance between two ends of a bow between them. Allaah makes it clear that Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam)’s eyes did not deceive him and that he saw everything clearly. Allaah then spoke certain things to Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) which no third being has any knowledge of. Allaah tells people that that they should never doubt the words of Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) (especially on the occasion of Mi’raaj) because “he does not speak of his own will. Everything he says is revelation that descends to him.” [verse 4] Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the 23rd night of Taraaweeh Download Now In Surah Qamar thereafter, Allaah speaks about Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam)’s miracle of splitting the moon; a miracle that foretold the eventual defeat of the kuffaar. Allaah says that the kuffaar are unlikely to mend their ways because they refer to the miracles of Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) as magic. However, the time is nigh when they will hang their heads in remorse and flee from the truth. Surah Rahmaan follows Surah Qamar as the 55th Surah of the Qur'aan. In this Surah, Allaah enumerates a large number of bounties that He has bestowed on man. Throughout the Surah Allaah repeatedly asks, “Which bounty of your Rabb will you deny?” Amongst the other bounties, Allaah speaks of man’s creation, the knowledge Allaah granted man, and the creation of everything else that is of use to man. By identifying all these bounties, man is introduced to Allaah. The Surah also describes the Hereafter and highlights the fact that everything besides Allaah is perishable. Allaah asserts, “Everything on earth shall perish but the countenance of your Majestic and Benevolent Rabb shall remain.” [verse 27] Surah Waaqi’ah describes the advent of Qiyaamah, illustrating that the records of righteous people’s deeds will be given in their right hands, while those of the kuffaar and sinners will be given in their left hands from behind their backs. The Surah states that the diet of the people of Jahannam shall be a poisonous tree and scalding water. Allaah terminates the Surah by drawing man’s attention to the fact that the Qur'aan is great blessing of Allaah, which has an elevated position in the Lawhul Mahfoodh (The Protected Tablet) in the heavens. Surah Hadeed follows Surah Waaqi’ah by stating that every creation glorifies Allaah. Allaah exhorts Muslims to spend in His way, which is regarded as a loan yielding a minimum of ten times the reward. Pious people neither become despondent when afflicted with adversities nor do they behave boastfully and arrogantly when enjoying prosperity. According to their deeds, these are the ones who will attain the status of Siddeeq and Shaheed. Allaah also tells the Ahlul Kitaab that Allaah bestows His grace and favour upon whomsoever He wills.

22nd Night Taraweeh Summary The 26th para is recited in this Taraaweeh. This para commences with Surah Ahqaaf, wherein Allaah states that He has created the universe for a stipulated period of time only. The system of the universe functions according to Allaah’s perfect plan, yet the kuffaar still adamantly oppose the truth. Allaah commands man to treat his parents kindly, reminding him that his mother bore him with hardship and delivered him with hardship. When this man grows up to be righteous he will express gratitude to Allaah, whereupon Allaah will accept his deeds and forgive him for his shortcomings. However, Allaah will punish those who oppose their parents and disobey them. Thereafter, Allaah makes mention of the time when a group of the Jinn listened to Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) reciting the Qur'aan and then conveyed the message to their people. Surah Muhammed begins after Surah Ahqaaf. Allaah says that the deeds of people will be destroyed when, apart from adhering to kufr, they also enjoin others to do the same. Allaah will also forgive the sins of those who possess Imaan and practise on the guidance given to them. In addition to this Allaah will also correct their deeds. Allaah also commands the Muslims to wage jihaad till the enemy surrenders. Those people who are averse towards jihaad after Imaan and guidance has come to them, then such people have definitely fallen prey to Shaytaan because Shaytaan makes evil deeds seem appealing and makes people entertain hopes of long lives. Eventually, the deeds of such people are destroyed. Allaah also tells people to ponder about the verses of the Qur'aan because this will illuminate their hearts and their minds. Surah Fatah follows Surah Muhammed (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam). In this Surah, Allaah speaks about the Treaty of Hudaybiyyah which turned out to be a tremendous victory for the Muslims. Allaah says in verse 10, “Verily those who pledge allegiance to you [Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam)] have actually pledged allegiance to Allaah. Allaah’s hand is above theirs.” Allaah adds that those who violate their pledge and turn away from jihaad become deserving of a terrible punishment. Allaah declares in the final verse of this Surah, “Muhammed (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) is Allaah’s messenger and those with him are hard on the disbelievers, yet compassionate towards each other.” [verse 29] Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the 22nd night of Taraaweeh Download Now Surah Hujuraat, which follows Surah Fatah, contains teachings that are pertinent to good character. The Surah teaches Muslims the etiquette of social interaction and good manners. The Surah specially emphasises the refinement of manners to be displayed when in the presence of Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) and near his rooms. In fact, failure to observe etiquette in Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam)’s presence may lead to one’s deeds being rejected. The Surah highlights the importance of cordial and amicable behaviour towards each other and equates backbiting to eating the flesh of a brother’s corpse. The next Surah to follow is Surah Qaaf, wherein man is told that Allaah is closer to him than his own jugular vein. Allaah also reminds man that two angels have been appointed to record the deeds of every person. These records will be subjected to scrutiny on the Day of Qiyaamah. Surah Dhaariyaat begins thereafter. Allaah tells man that Qiyaamah is inevitable and that every person will receive the recompense due to him/her for every good and evil deed committed. The evil ones will suffer punishment while the righteous Mu'mineen will enjoy the bounties of Jannah. Allaah describes the people of Imaan as those who sleep very little, who awaken during the early hours of the morning to beseech Allaah for forgiveness, and who spend their wealth to assist those who ask of them as well as those who do not ask. The incidents of certain Ambiya (A.S) are then mentioned briefly.

Signs of Allah in Rocks Allaah has granted unique colour to the many forms of creation that He has made and it is often by these colours that they are distinguished from one another. Allaah has even accorded stunning colours to rocks, some being black, some white, others red, green and so many other colours and shades. For each of these many types of rock, man has various uses. Who else could it be who gave such beautiful colours and lustre to the many rocks and boulders hidden deep underground? This is certainly only through the amazing power and might of Allaah. (Madrasah in Just 5 Minutes - Mufti A.H.Elias May Allaah protect him) Most of the Ladakh region in totality lavishes with enrichment of rocks and minerals. This is an image of a rock taken on a hill at Lamayuru In the, reflecting different colours at the same time owing to its mineral content. The Danzia landform, China The rocks where rainbows sleep. This collision of colours is the result of over 24 million years of mineral deposits settling down over the red sandstone of the mountain range. The seamless stripes that coat the terrain give the impression that the land itself has been graffitied over with chalk. This vibrant landscape gives backpackers a unique hiking experience to add to their travelling memoirs, including sights of naturally formed rock towers, waterfalls and ravines. JESSICA WINDER 2014

Not Discharging Sadaqatul Fitr for many years Q: If a person did not discharge his sadaqatul fitr for many years, what should he do? A: He should discharge the value of the current year’s sadaqatul fitr for each year he missed. ( تجب ) … ( موسعا في العمر ) عند أصحابناوهو الصحيح بحر عن البدائع معللا بأن الأمر بأدائها مطلق الزكاة على قول كما مر و قال فى الشامية : قوله ( وهو الصحيح ) هو ما عليه المتون بقولهم وصح لو قدم أو أخر قوله ( مطلق ) أي عن الوقت فتجب في مطلق الوقت وإنما يتعين بتعيينه فعلا أو آخر العمر ففي أي وقت أدى كان مؤديا لا قاضيا كما في سائر الواجبات الموسعة غير أن المستحب قبل الخروج إلى المصلى لقوله عليه الصلاة والسلام أغنوهم عنه المسألة في هذا اليوم بدائع (شامي 2/358-359) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

Sūrah al-Aḥzāb: Reflections on Hijab Qur'an Reflections Al-Balagh In this sūrah, which was revealed at the time of the battle of the trench (also known as the battle of Aḥzāb), hijab was introduced as a formal requirement for Muslim women. This was a revolutionary change. The Arab society of the time was a stranger to the idea of segregation and hijab as mentioned in āyah 33 below. This era was declared as a dark era of ignorance (al-Jāhiliyyah al-Ūlā, or the earlier Jāhiliyyah) and the new Muslim community was asked to move away from its cultural and social practices. The qualifier Ūlā (earlier) implies the prophesy of a later Jāhiliyyah, and what we are witnessing today in the modern world fits the bill. Those who are trying to reconcile Islam to this modern Jāhiliyyah have been working hard to water down these teachings. Among their arguments is that these āyahs were meant only for the wives of the Prophet ﷺ. Little do they realize that the household of the Prophet ﷺ was charged with becoming the model that the rest of the community would follow, for a revolutionary change in such practices required the presence of cultural leaders. A careful reading of the following āyahs will make that amply clear. يَا نِسَاءَ النَّبِيِّ لَسْتُنَّ كَأَحَدٍ مِّنَ النِّسَاءِ ۚ إِنِ اتَّقَيْتُنَّ فَلَا تَخْضَعْنَ بِالْقَوْلِ فَيَطْمَعَ الَّذِي فِي قَلْبِهِ مَرَضٌ وَقُلْنَ قَوْلًا مَّعْرُوفًا O wives of the prophet, you are not like any other women, if you observe taqwā (righteousness). So, do not be too soft in your speech, lest someone having disease in his heart develop fancies (about you); and do speak with appropriate words. (Al-Aḥzāb 33:32) This āyah makes two points. First, the wives of the Prophet ﷺ are at a level above other women because of taqwā. Second, in talking to other men their talk should avoid display of female charms to prevent the development of any fancies. Are we to believe that developing taqwā and preempting the possibility of developing lust were only the concern of the wives of the Prophet ﷺ? وَقَرْنَ فِي بُيُوتِكُنَّ وَلَا تَبَرَّجْنَ تَبَرُّجَ الْجَاهِلِيَّةِ الْأُولَىٰ ۖ وَأَقِمْنَ الصَّلَاةَ وَآتِينَ الزَّكَاةَ وَأَطِعْنَ اللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُ ۚ إِنَّمَا يُرِيدُ اللَّهُ لِيُذْهِبَ عَنكُمُ الرِّجْسَ أَهْلَ الْبَيْتِ وَيُطَهِّرَكُمْ تَطْهِيرًا Remain in your homes, and do not flaunt your charms as they used to flaunt them in the days of earlier ignorance; and establish Ṣalāh, and pay Zakāh, and obey Allāh and His Messenger. Allāh only intends to keep (all sorts of ) filth away from you, O members of the family (of the prophet), and to make you pure through a perfect purification. (Al-Aḥzāb, 33:33) Here again the question will be whether breaking from the Jāhiliyyah practices was only required of the wives of the Prophet ﷺ. What about Ṣalāh and Zakāh? Why are they mentioned in this “exclusive” directive? يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لَا تَدْخُلُوا بُيُوتَ النَّبِيِّ إِلَّا أَن يُؤْذَنَ لَكُمْ إِلَىٰ طَعَامٍ غَيْرَ نَاظِرِينَ إِنَاهُ وَلَٰكِنْ إِذَا دُعِيتُمْ فَادْخُلُوا فَإِذَا طَعِمْتُمْ فَانتَشِرُوا وَلَا مُسْتَأْنِسِينَ لِحَدِيثٍ ۚ إِنَّ ذَٰلِكُمْ كَانَ يُؤْذِي النَّبِيَّ فَيَسْتَحْيِي مِنكُمْ ۖ وَاللَّهُ لَا يَسْتَحْيِي مِنَ الْحَقِّ ۚ وَإِذَا سَأَلْتُمُوهُنَّ مَتَاعًا فَاسْأَلُوهُنَّ مِن وَرَاءِ حِجَابٍ ۚ ذَٰلِكُمْ أَطْهَرُ لِقُلُوبِكُمْ وَقُلُوبِهِنَّ ۚ وَمَا كَانَ لَكُمْ أَن تُؤْذُوا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ وَلَا أَن تَنكِحُوا أَزْوَاجَهُ مِن بَعْدِهِ أَبَدًا ۚ إِنَّ ذَٰلِكُمْ كَانَ عِندَ اللَّهِ عَظِيمًا And when you ask anything from them (the blessed wives of the Prophet), ask them from behind a curtain. That is better for the purity of your hearts and their hearts. (Al-Aḥzāb, 33:53) We can continue the same question here. Was the purity of hearts only needed for the wives? يَا أَيُّهَا النَّبِيُّ قُل لِّأَزْوَاجِكَ وَبَنَاتِكَ وَنِسَاءِ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ يُدْنِينَ عَلَيْهِنَّ مِن جَلَابِيبِهِنَّ ۚ ذَٰلِكَ أَدْنَىٰ أَن يُعْرَفْنَ فَلَا يُؤْذَيْنَ ۗ وَكَانَ اللَّهُ غَفُورًا رَّحِيمًا O Prophet, tell your wives and your daughters and the women of the believers that they should draw down their shawls over them. That will make it more likely that they are recognized, hence not teased. And Allāh is Most-Forgiving, Very-Merciful. (Al-Aḥzāb, 33:59) This āyah now extends the command to all Muslim women although wives and daughters of the Prophet ﷺ are again mentioned first. The reason for earlier specific addresses to them should now be obvious to everyone. They were charged to lead the cultural revolution—as they in fact did. Hijab became a symbol of all Muslim women, not just that of the wives of the Prophet ﷺ. The ban on free mixing extended to the entire community. Islam established separate spheres for men and women, and Muslim societies throughout the centuries held fast to this norm.

Eating Intentionally after thinking one's Fast has Broken Q: After eating forgetfully a fasting person intentionally ate assuming that his fast had already broken. Does the fast now become nullified? If so will Qadha as well as Kaffarah become Waajib or only Qadha? A: The fast will now become nullified. Only Qadha will be Waajib. (Bahishti Zewar vol.3 pg.13) (وإن أفطر خطأ ) كأن تمضمض فسبقه الماء أو شرب نائما أو تسحر أو جامع على ظن عدم الفجر ( أو ) أوجر ( مكرها ) أو نائما وأما حديث رفع الخطأ فالمراد رفع الإثم وفي التحرير المؤاخذة بالخطأ جائزة عندنا خلافا للمعتزلة ( أو أكل ) أو جامع ( ناسيا ) أو احتلم أو أنزل بنظر أو ذرعه القيء ( فظن أنه أفطر فأكل عمدا ) للشبهة ، قال الشامي: (قوله للشبهة) علة للكل قال في البحر: وإنما لم تجب الكفارة بإفطاره عمدا بعد أكله أو شربه أو جماعه لأنه ظن في موضع الاشتباه بالنظير (رد المحتار على در المختار ج2 ص401/402) لو أكل أو شرب أو جامع ناسيا وظن أن ذلك فطره فأكل متعمدا لاكفارة عليه (الفتاوى الهندية ج1ص206) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)