ummtaalib

Qualities of True Believers, Male & Female, in the Noble Qur’an Surat Al-‘Ahzab [33:35] Lo! men who surrender unto Allah, and women who surrender, and men who believe and women who believe, and men who obey and women who obey, and men who speak the truth and women who speak the truth, and men who persevere (in righteousness) and women who persevere, and men who are humble and women who are humble, and men who give alms and women who give alms, and men who fast and women who fast, and men who guard their modesty and women who guard (their modesty), and men who remember Allah much and women who remember - Allah hath prepared for them forgiveness and a vast reward.

Characteristics of a Mu’min (As Described in Surah al-Mu’minoon) Allah swt says in Surah al-Mu’minoon 23 verses 1 to 10: “Successful indeed are the believers (1) Those who offer their Salat with full submissiveness (2) And those who turn away from Al-Laghw (vain talk) (3) And those who pay the Zakat (4) And those who guard their chastity (5) Except from their wives or those their right hands possess, for then, they are free from blame (6) But whoever seeks beyond that, then those are the transgressors (7) Those who are faithfully true to their Amana (Trusts) and to their covenants; (8) And those who strictly guard their obligatory daily Prayers (9) These are indeed the inheritors (of the Paradise) (10)”

Qualities of Faithful Believers From Sūrat al-Tawbah ﴿وَالْمُؤْمِنُونَ وَالْمُؤْمِنَـتِ بَعْضُهُمْ أَوْلِيَآءُ بَعْضٍ﴾ (The believers, men and women, are supporters of one another;) they help and aid each other. ﴿يَأْمُرُونَ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ وَيَنْهَوْنَ عَنِ الْمُنْكَرِ﴾ (...they enjoin good, and forbid evil), this is similar to, ﴿وَلْتَكُن مِّنْكُمْ أُمَّةٌ يَدْعُونَ إِلَى الْخَيْرِ وَيَأْمُرُونَ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ وَيَنْهَوْنَ عَنِ الْمُنْكَرِ﴾ (Let there arise out of you a group of people inviting to all that is good, enjoining Al-Ma`ruf and forbidding the Munkar...) (3:104). Allah said next, ﴿وَيُقِيمُونَ الصَّلَوةَ وَيُؤْتُونَ الزَّكَوةَ﴾ (they perform the Salah, and give the Zakah), they obey Allah and are kind to His creation, ﴿وَيُطِيعُونَ اللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُ﴾ (and obey Allah and His Messenger), concerning what he commands and refraining from what he prohibits, ﴿أُوْلَـئِكَ سَيَرْحَمُهُمُ اللَّهُ﴾ (Allah will have mercy on them.) Therefore, Allah will give mercy to those who have these qualities, ﴿أَنَّ اللَّهَ عَزِيزٌ﴾ (Surely, Allah is All-Mighty), He grants glory to those who obey Him, for indeed, might and glory is from Allah Who gives it to His Messenger and the believers, ﴿حَكِيمٌ﴾ (All-Wise), in granting these qualities to the believers, while giving evil characteristics to hypocrites. Surely, Allah's wisdom is perfect in all His actions; praise and glory be to Him. ﴿وَعَدَ اللَّهُ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ وَالْمُؤْمِنَـتِ جَنَّـتٍ تَجْرِي مِن تَحْتِهَا الأَنْهَـرُ خَـلِدِينَ فِيهَا وَمَسَـكِنَ طَيِّبَةً فِى جَنَّاتِ عَدْنٍ وَرِضْوَنٌ مِّنَ اللَّهِ أَكْبَرُ ذَلِكَ هُوَ الْفَوْزُ الْعَظِيمُ ﴾ (72. Allah has promised the believers -- men and women, -- Gardens under which rivers flow to dwell therein forever, and beautiful mansions in gardens of `Adn (Eden; Paradise). But the greatest bliss is the good pleasure of Allah. That is the supreme success.)

Portrait of Believers Taken from Qur'an Reflections - Juz Nineteen Surah al-Furqān Al-Balagh This sūrah ends with another snapshot of the character of believers. As mentioned in the reflections on Sūrah al- Mu’minūn, these should not be seen as so many disjointed commands, but as pointers to the desirable personality. These are the people who can affectionately be called the servants of the Most Merciful. It is also to be noted that the qualities are listed not as goals but accomplishments. These āyahs are not saying, “O believers do this.” Rather they are saying, “Believers are already doing this.” At other places in the Qur’ān believers have been praised for virtuous acts though they were not commanded to do them anywhere in the Qur’ān. Reflecting on this will enlighten us about both the role of the Prophet ﷺ and that of the Companions. The Companions either learned these qualities directly from the Prophet ﷺ or as a result of Prophetic training, they developed that mindset that automatically led them to the praiseworthy course of action. Qualities: They walk humbly. They avoid arguments with the ignorant people. They spend the nights in worship of Allāh. They follow the path of moderation in economic matters. They are neither spendthrift nor stingy. They respect sanctity of life. They do not commit fornication or adultery. They do not bear false witness. They do not turn deaf and dumb to the words of Allāh. They seek and pray for raising a family based on piety and virtue.

Water goes down the Throat when Gargling or Rinsing the Nose whilst Fasting Q: If whilst fasting, water goes down the throat when gargling the mouth or rinsing the nose in Wudhu or Ghusl will the fast break? A: If one was aware that he was fasting at the time the water seeped down the throat or nostril the fast will break. If one was unaware of him being in the state of fasting the fast will not break. (وإن أفطر خطأ كأن تمضمض فسبقه الماء قال في الشامي: (قوله وإن أفطر خطأ) شرط جوابه قوله التي قضى فقط وهذا شروع في القسم الثاني وهو ما يوجب القضاء دون الكفارة … (قوله فسبقه الماء) أي يفسد صومه إن كان ذاكرا له (رد المحتار على در المختار ج2 ص401) وإن تمضمض أو استنشق فدخل الماء جوفه إن كان ذاكرا لصومه فسد صومه وعليه القضاء (الفتاوى الهندية ج1 ص203) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

21st Night Taraweeh Summary The entire 25th para is recited in this Taraaweeh. Allaah makes it clear that He is the only One Who knows when Qiyaamah will take place. Allaah then speaks of man’s ingratitude when He says, “When We favour man, he is averse and turns away. But when hardship afflicts him, he becomes one of vast prayers.” [verse 51, Surah HaaMeem Sajdah] Those who doubt the advent of Qiyaamah should bear in mind that Allaah has the might to do as He pleases. Surah Shura begins after Surah HaaMeem Sajdah and Allaah tells the Mushrikeen that there is nothing astonishing about the fact that He teaches His book to the Ambiya (A.S) via revelation. Allaah adds that the sins of the Mushrikeen are so grave that it would be no wonder if the severity of these sins should cause the sky to come crashing down on them. They are also warned that their abode shall be Jahannam where there will be none to assist them. Allaah instructs Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to tell the people, “Say, ‘I ask of you no recompense (for my preaching), save for the love between relatives.” [verse 23] This obligatory love demands that the kuffaar at least refrain from harming Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam). Allaah will ensure that people are rewarded in full for their good deeds. In verse 43 Allaah lauds the persevering people when He says, “Whoever will exercise patience and pardon, that will certainly be of the most resolute matters.” Allaah says further that it is inappropriate that He speaks directly to any human being. Allaah says, “It is only appropriate for a human that Allaah speaks to him by means of inspiration, or from behind a veil, or that He sends a messenger who conveys the revelation by Allaah’s command, as He pleases. Verily Allaah is Exalted, the Wise.” [verse 51] Surah Zukhruf begins after Surah Shura. Allaah tells the Mushrikeen that they should not fool themselves by thinking that revelation of the Qur'aan will cease because of their disobedience and sins. Allaah has never stopped sending Ambiya (A.S) or revelation on account of the kuffaar’s evil. On the contrary, Allaah kept sending Ambiya (A.S) with revelation, as a result of which the evil of the kuffaar was crushed. Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the 21st night of Taraaweeh Download Now Allaah also stresses that He has no children and that none has the ability to intercede on behalf of those who have gone astray. Surah Dukhaan follows Surah Zukhruf as the 44th Surah of the Qur'aan. Allaah states, “We have revealed it (the Qur'aan) on a blessed night. Verily We are the Warners. The decision of every matter of wisdom is passed on this night as a command proceeding from Us.” [verses 3, 4, 5] Listening and reciting the Qur'aan draws Allaah’s mercy on condition that a person has perfect conviction. Everything is within Allaah’s kingdom and He alone gives life and death. When punishment overtakes people because of their sins, they cry out to Allaah saying, “O our Rabb! Remove this punishment from us and we will surely believe.” [verse 12] However, when Allaah removes the punishment they do not take heed but revert to their former ways of disbelief. However, the Hereafter shall certainly arrive when they will be cast into Jahannam where “the tree of Zaqqoom shall be food for the sinful.” [verse 43/4] Surah Dukhaan is followed by Surah Jaathiya where Allaah mentions many signs of His might. Amongst these are the creation of man, the creation of the animals, the alternation of night and day, the flourishing of dead ground after rains, the turning of the winds and the sailing of the ships. All these phenomena are for man’s benefit and will teach him about Allaah’s greatness if he takes the time to reflect. The last two verses of the Surah declare: “Allaah praise is for Allaah, the Rabb of the heavens and the earth; the Rabb of the universe. To Him belongs all majesty in the heavens and the earth; and He is the Mighty, the Wise.” [verses 36/7] May Allaah grant us the ability to recognise His might and may He bless us with the wealth of conviction.

Sadaqatul Fitr if one's Wealth got Destroyed Q: If one did not discharge his sadaqatul fitr and all his wealth got destroyed. Will the obligation of sadaqatul fitr fall away? A: The obligation will not fall away. One will have to discharge the sadaqatul fitr when he receives wealth. ( فلا تسقط ) الفطرة وكذا الحج ( بهلاك المال بعد الوجوب ) كما لا يبطل النكاح بموت الشهود ( بخلاف الزكاة ) والعشر والخراج لاشتراط بقاء الميسرة ( عن نفسه ) متعلق بيجب وإن لم يصم لعذر (الدر المختار مع رد المحتار 2/361) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

The Countdown Begins!!!...Ramadhan's Last Ten Nights and Days By: E Islam Team In this blessed month of Ramadan, we have now come to the grand finale – the last ten days of Ramadan that are even regarded as the “cream” of Ramadan. In it is a night that Qur'an tells us is better than 1000 months (yes, months…not days!) The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "There has come to you Ramadaan, a blessed month which Allah has enjoined you to fast, during which the gates of heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed, and the rebellious devils are chained up. In it there is a night which is better than a thousand months, and whoever is deprived of its goodness is indeed deprived." (Hadith Narrated by An-Nasaa’i, 2106; Ahmad, Sahih At-Targheeb, 999.) So, in preparation for the grand finale, here is a checklist of some of the things that we can all do to make the remaining days of Ramadaan work to our advantage: 1) Get in High Gear for the Next few Nights and Days Time is of the essence. Every moment counts. Whatever you need to do for the next ten days to make the most in `Ibadah, good deeds, reciting Qur'an, dhikr, making du`aa', etc., rewards are going to be multiplied. No one knew about the importance of these days more than the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) would strive hard in worship during the last ten nights of Ramadaan as he did not do at other times.(Hadith Muslim) If we lose this opportunity, we have to wait another year, assuming we are still around and are in good health and shape to make use of it. Even if we are, we have the past years’ sins on our shoulders and life’s normal trials and tribulations to face the coming year. So, there is no better time to ask Allah to make all that easier than NOW. 2) Get a Copy of the Qur'an and Recite as Often as You Can Not enough can be mentioned on the benefits and virtues of Qur'an. It is proven in the authentic Sunnah that the Qur'an will intercede for those who read it at night, as Ahmad (6626) narrated from ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Amr that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Fasting and the Qur'an will intercede for a person on the Day of Resurrection. Fasting will say, ‘O Lord, I deprived him of his food and his desires during the day, so let me intercede for him.’ And the Qur'an will say: ‘I deprived him of his sleep at night so let me intercede for him.’ Then they will intercede." (Narrated by Ahmad; classed as sahih by al-Albani in Sahih al-Jami`, no. 3882.) As is stated in the hadith in which the The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:"Whosoever reads a letter from the Book of Allah will receive a Hasanah (good deed) from it (i.e. his recitation), and the Hasanah (good deed) is multiplied by ten. I do not say that Alif-laam-meem is (considered as) a letter (in reward), rather Alif is one letter, laam is one letter, and meem is one letter." (Reported by At-Tirmidhi, Ad-Darami) The Messenger of Allah( Blessings and Peace be upon him) said:"The best of you is he who learns the Quran and teaches it." (Hadith Reported by Al-Bukhari) 3) Get your Sins Forgiven First the bad news –In Musnad Ahmad it is narrated that Thawbaan said: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "A man is deprived of provision (Rizq) because of the sins that he commits." (Narrated by Ibn Majah, 4022, ). And now for the good news – It was narrated from Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: "Whoever spends the night of Laylat al-Qadr in Prayer out of faith and in the hope of reward, will be forgiven his previous sins." 4) What to Say on Laylat Al-Qadr One of the best du`aa’s that can be recited on Laylat Al-Qadr is that which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) taught ‘A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her). It was narrated by At-Tirmidhi, who classed it as sahih, that ‘A’ishah said: I said: “O Messenger of Allah, If I know which night is Laylat Al-Qadr, what should I say?” He said: "Say: Allahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibb al-‘afwa fa`fu ‘anni (O Allah, You are All-Forgiving and You love forgiveness so forgive me)." 5) Get in the Class of the Pious People Allah has described the pious as follows (interpretation of the meaning): (They used to sleep but little by night (invoking their Lord (Allah) and praying, with fear and hope). (Adh-Dhariyat 51:17) (And in the hours before dawn, they were (found) asking (Allah) for forgiveness,) (Adh-Dhariyat 51:18) Allah's Messenger(saw) said:" There is in Paradise an Apartment, the exterior of which can be seen from the interior, and the interior of which can be seen from the exterior. Such apartments have been prepared for those who are Polite in their talk, Provide Food to the Needy, Fast frequently and observe the TAHAJJUD PRAYERS when people are sleep.” (Mishkhat Al-Masabih ; Hadith No. 1232) 6) Finally… Think of all that you need to ask Allah for and ask Him now. If you haven’t before, this is the time to connect with Him and feel closer to Him. And when you do during these last ten nights and days of this Ramadaan, you would want to do this again and again– even after the month is over. And finally, when you are in a state of Ibadah (Prayers and worship), please open your heart for others as well and please do remember your brothers and sisters who are in great difficulty all around the world in your prayers. Remember what The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: "The supplication that gets the quickest answer is the one made by one Muslim for another in his absence."(Hadith-Reported by Abu Dawud and At-Tirmidhi) You snooze…you loose! Cut off texting, tweeting and changing your profile status unless really necessary. So strive during these last ten days as if it would be your last chance to do so. A wise man once said… “ I will pass this way but once so let me do whatever good I can NOW for I may NEVER pass this way again!” May Allah Ta’la grants us the wisdom, courage and strength to reap the full benefits of this month…Ameen www.eislam.co.za

Ramadān – A Golden Opportunity to Become a Muttaqī By Shaykh Mawlānā Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullāh Events and occasions give us an opportunity to track the passing of time; otherwise days, months and years would pass by without us realising. Whenever we look towards the future, it seems very distant; however, upon reflection over the past we realise how quickly time has elapsed. To understand the longevity of our future we have to evaluate it on our experience of the past. As usual, the current Ramadān will also feel very long and the end will seem a long way away, but the reality of these days can be understood by the many Ramadāns we have experienced in the past; how short they were and how quickly they passed, and how after each Ramadān we felt that if only there were a few more days so that some beneficial action could be carried out. In order to save ourselves from such regret once again, it is of the utmost importance that we realise the great opportunity Ramadān is offering us and make the most of it. The Objective of Ramadān First and foremost we need to understand that Allāh ta‘ālā has granted us this great gift of Ramadān so that we may become muttaqīn - the people of taqwā. Allāh ta‘ālā states: My late Shaykh, Hadrat Hājī Fārūq rahimahullāh taught me the following supplication: O Allāh! You have given us this month so that we become people of taqwā; so make us from the people of taqwā. O you who believe, the fasts have been enjoined upon you as they were enjoined upon those before you, so that you may become people of taqwā. [2:183] What is Taqwā? Now, the question arises what is taqwā? Once ‘Umar radhiyallāhu ‘anhu asked Ka‘b Al-Ahbār radhiyallāhu ‘anhu the meaning of taqwā. In reply, Ka‘b radhiyallāhu ‘anhu, asked ‘Umar radhiyallāhu ‘anhu if he had ever walked on a thorny path and if yes how he had passed through it. ‘Umar radhiyallāhu ‘anhu explained that he gathered his clothes and ensured that his clothes didn’t get caught by the thorns. Ka‘b radhiyallāhu ‘anhu said, “That is taqwā.” The explanation of Ka‘b’s statement is that we too should pass through this world very carefully, ensuring we do not fall prey to nafs and Shaytān and commit a sin; be it minor or major. Taqwā is a nūr (light) which enlightens and spiritually strengthens the heart to such an extent that the person finds a natural dislike for sinful activities. This becomes a barrier between him and the disobedience to Allāh ta‘ālā. This nūr of taqwā is acquired by forcing oneself to carry out the commands of Allāh ta‘ālā and stay away from His disobedience no matter what sacrifice one has to give. This sacrifice is called mujāhadah, and every time this is carried out a special nūr is created in the heart. The more the obedience the stronger the nūr, until eventually the heart is enlightened to such an extent that it will not tolerate the filth of any sin. The similitude of this can be likened to a person who abhors dirt. If he needs to walk through a dirty path way, he will have a natural aversion for the dirt and will instinctively gather his clothes to ensure his clothes don’t get soiled. Similarly, once the heart has become filled with the nūr of taqwā, it will abhor sinful activities and places of evil and will develop an aversion to them, leading one to automatically safeguard himself. On the other hand when a person disobeys Allāh ta‘ālā, the nūr of taqwā in the heart diminishes. The more sins a person commits, the more darkness engulfs the heart until a point comes when the heart becomes inclined towards disbelief. This very fact has been narrated in a hadīth of Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam. Virtues of Taqwā We can understand from the above that taqwā is one of the greatest favours Allāh ta‘ālā has granted us as it guarantees us success of both worlds. Allāh ta‘ālā states: Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam has stated: Whoever fears the disobedience to Allāh, Allāh will create for him a way out (from difficulties), and provide him (with whatever he needs) from where he does not even imagine. [65:3] And whoever fears the disobedience to Allāh, Allāh will bring about ease for him in his affair. [65:6] Race with one another towards Forgiveness from your Lord and towards a Paradise the width of which spans the heavens and the earth. It has been prepared for the Muttaqīn. [3:133] Allāh ta‘ālā through His mercy, love and kindness has granted us this month of Ramadān which is full of blessings making it easy for us to carry out the commands of Allāh plus other spiritual deeds. Verily the closest to me from the people are the Muttaqīn; wherever they may be and whoever they may be. (Ahmad) Ramadān and Taqwā From the ahādīth and verses of the Qur’ān we can list some of the special blessings and virtues of Ramadān. 1. This is the month in which the Qur’ān was revealed. 2. This is the month in which the doors of Jannah are opened and the doors of Jahannam are closed. 3. The shayātīn are chained. 4. There is a night in this month which is better than a thousand months. 5. Allāh ta‘ālā calls out: ‘O desirer of good hasten forward and O the searcher of evil, stop.’ 6. Allāh emancipates people from Jahannam in thousands. 7. The first ten days of this month are of mercy, the middle ten days are of forgiveness and the last ten days are for emancipating servants from Jahannam. 8. Allāh ta‘ālā readily accepts du‘ā in this month. Allāh through His kindness has granted us these great blessings which boosts our efforts towards the path of taqwā. Let us therefore value this blessed month and resolve to carry out the following: 1. Taqwā and tawbah: Carry out all the commands of Allāh and abstain from all disobedience. Sincerely repent and seek forgiveness for all past negligence with a firm resolution never to return to it again. 2. Tilāwah: The month of Ramadān has a strong connection with the Qur’ān. Allāh ta‘ālā states: The month of Ramadān is the one in which the Qur’ān was revealed as guidance for mankind, and as clear signs that show the right way and distinguish between right and wrong…[2:185] Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam would revise the Qur’ān with Jibra’īl ‘alayhis salām during this month. The pious people gave much importance to reciting the Qur’ān in this month. The following few examples will suffice to make us realise how much effort we should exert. • Imām Abū Hanīfah rahimahullāh would recite one Qur’ān in the day and one Qur’ān in the night daily. • Imām Shāfi‘ī rahimahullāh would recite one Qur’ān in the day and one at night daily in salāh. • Imām Bukhārī rahimahullāh would recite forty one Qur’āns during the month of Ramadān. • Hadrat Shaykh, Mawlānā Muhammad Zakariyyā rahimahullāh would recite one Qur’ān daily. 3. Abundance of Kalimah Tayyibah and Istighfār: In one hadith, Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam has directed us towards four things we should do in abundance during the blessed month: recitation of Kalimah Tayyibah, asking for forgiveness, asking for Jannah and seeking refuge from Jahannam. My late father taught me a du‘ā to be read in Ramadān when I was a child: Lā ilāha illallāh, astaghfirullāh, as’alukal jannah, wa a’ūdhubika minannār. There is no diety except Allāh, I seek forgiveness from Allāh, I ask from You (O Allāh) Jannah, and I seek Your refuge from the fire. It was only when I grew up and became a student of Dīn that I realised that this simple formula of du‘a was actually a way of practicing upon the instruction of Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam. 4. Du‘ā: There is much significance of making du‘ā in the month of Ramadān. Allāh ta‘ālā has discussed du‘ā in between discussing the rulings related to fasting in the month of Ramadān. When My servants ask you about Me, then (tell them that) I am near. I respond to the call of one when he prays to Me. [2:186] In the hadīth of Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam we find that du‘ā at the time of iftār is readily accepted. Similarly, at the time of suhūr du‘ās are readily accepted. We find in the hadith of Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam that Allāh ta‘ālā descends in the last portion of the night and calls out to His servants saying, ‘Is there anyone who will make du‘ā to Me so that I may accept it? Is there anyone who will ask of Me so that I may fulfil his request? Is there anyone who will ask My forgiveness so that I may forgive him. (Al-Bukhārī) 5. Spending in the Path of Allāh ta‘ālā: The month of Ramadān is also a month of charity. It is narrated that the generosity of Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam would increase in this month. Spending in the path of Allāh ta‘ālā holds much virtue; just giving someone a sip of water or a mere date grants a person the reward of the fasting person. Therefore, one should make an effort to spend as much as possible. Zakāt is to be given on its appointed time whether in Ramadān or outside of Ramadān. The important matter is that one should try and endeavour to spend in charitable causes as much as possible. It should also be noted that when spending in the Path of Allāh ta‘ālā, a person should endeavour to find the most fruitful places for his Hereafter. A person should not give away his charity to the first person who knocks at his door; rather one should make an effort to spend in the most opportune of places. It should be remembered that spending is our need and not the need of the recipient; it is we who are in need of the reward of charity and therefore it should be our effort to find places to spend. 6. I‘tikāf: A special significance is given to i‘tikāf in the month of Ramadān. The fuqahā have stipulated that i‘tikāf of the last ten days in the month of Ramadān is Sunnah muakkadah ‘alal-kifāyah. Hence, if the people of a locality leave this sunnah then the whole locality will be liable. Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam carried out i‘tikāf in the last ten days of Ramadān throughout his life to the extent that he performed i‘tikāf of twenty days in the Ramadān before his demise. This was to compensate the i‘tikāf missed the previous year due to a reason and also to increase his devotion before departing from this world. I‘tikāf will go a long way in establishing taqwā and connecting one to Allāh ta‘ālā. 7. Remembering Allāh ta‘ālā and doing good: Spend time in doing good as much as possible. Whilst standing, sitting and lying down - in every circumstance, keep the tongue moist with the remembrance of Allāh ta‘ālā. My dear readers! Occupy yourself in doing good and value every moment of this blessed month. Life is very short and this golden opportunity of Ramadān will very quickly slip away. If we pay heed then Inshā’allāh this Ramadān will become a golden Ramadān for us in which we will become people of taqwā, thus acquiring success in both worlds. May Allāh ta‘ālā grant us the tawfīq. Āmīn. © Riyādul Jannah Islamic Da'wah Academy

20th Night Taraweeh Summary The 24th para is recited in this Taraaweeh. Allaah says in the first verse of the para, “Who can be more unjust than him who lies about Allaah, and falsifies the truth when it comes to him? Is there no abode for the disbelievers in Jahannam? The one who brings the truth and confirms it, these are the people who are abstinent.” [verses 32/3 of Surah Zumar] Allaah promises that He will assist Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) when He declares in verse 36, “Is Allaah not Sufficient for His bondsman?” Allaah also addresses Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) saying, “Without doubt, We have revealed to you a Book with the truth for the people. Whoever is rightly guided, is guided for his benefit, and whomsoever is misguided, then it is to his own detriment. You have not been sent as a warder over them (and therefore cannot be held responsible for their deeds).” [verse 41] Allaah emphasises that sustenance proceeds only from Him and that the kuffaar always have a chance to be forgiven if they repent to Allaah sincerely. Surah Mu'min commences after Surah Zumar. Allaah declares therein, “This Book is revealed from Allaah, the Mighty, the All Knowing, the Forgiver of sins, Acceptor of repentance, Stern in punishment, and All Powerful. There is none worthy of worship besides Him, and all shall return to Him.” [verses 2 and 3] In verse 4 Allaah addresses Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) as well as the Mu'mineen when He says, “It is only the disbelievers who argue about Allaah’s verses, so let not their travelling about through the lands (and their apparent might) deceive you (because Allaah will soon seize them and they are destined to be fuel for Jahannam).” Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the 20th night of Taraaweeh Download Now Allaah urges all Muslims to worship Allaah only and to abstain from shirk even though the kuffaar and Mushrikeen detest this. Allaah sent the Ambiya (A.S) to warn people of the difficult Day of Qiyaamah when every deed will be apparent. It will be a day of justice and every person will receive the full recompense for whatever good or evil s/he did. Allaah’s judgement will be binding and He will not be the least unjust to anyone. Allaah declares in verse 51, “We shall definitely assist Our messengers and those who believe in this worldly life, as well as on the Day witnesses will stand (the Day of Qiyaamah).” It will therefore be wisest for people to seek refuge with Allaah and bear in mind that “The blind and seeing cannot be equal, neither can those who believe and do good deeds be equal to the sinner. Little is it that they take heed.” [verse 58] Surah HaaMeem Sajdah begins after Surah Mu'min. Allaah says in verse 4 of the Surah that the Qur'aan is both “a bearer of glad tidings (for the righteous Mu'mineen) and a warner (for the others).” Allaah instructs Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to announce to the people that he is also a human being like themselves, the only difference being that revelation comes to him. It is this revelation that stresses “that your Deity is only One. So remain devoted to Him, and seek forgiveness from Him.” [verse 6] Allaah also exhorts Muslims to pay their zakaah and to have a firm conviction in the advent of Qiyaamah, when their limbs will testify against them. Allaah also advises Muslims to seek refuge with Allaah whenever Shaytaan attempts to mislead them because Allaah is All Hearing and All Knowing. Only Allaah is worthy of worship.

19th Night Taraweeh Summary This summary of the 2nd Taraweeh begins at the second quarter of the second para and concludes at the midway into the third para (verse 18) of Surah Aal Imraan. The para begins with words that every person should actually ask himself, “Why should I not worship the One Who has created me, and to Whom you all shall return?” [verse 22] Allaah also declares, “What anguish about My bondsmen! They mock at every prophet that comes to them. Have they not seen (or have they forgotten) how many were the nations that We destroyed before them? They will certainly never return to them. They will all be present before Us collectively” [verses 30 to 32] Thereafter, Allaah mentions numerous phenomena that denote His great creative ability. Mention of Jahannam and Jannah follow, when Allaah says, “Verily the people of Jannah will be joyous in their occupation on this day (of Qiyaamah).” [verse 55] Allaah concludes this glorious Surah by saying, “Pure is that Being in Whose hand lies the reins of everything, and to Whom you will all be returned.” [verse 83] Surah Saaffaat follows Surah Yaaseen. Allaah opens the Surah by taking several oaths and declaring that He is the only Master and Controller of the universe and that His system is free from the interference of the Shayaateen. On the Day of Qiyaamah, the Mushrikeen will become fuel for the fire of Jahannam along with their idols and gods. Allaah then mentions how Hadhrat Ibraheem (A.S) and his son Hadhrat Isma'eel (A.S) were successful in the trial that Allaah put them through when He commanded Hadhrat Ibraheem (A.S) to slaughter Hadhrat Isma'eel (A.S). At the last moment Allaah replaced Hadhrat Isma'eel (A.S) with a ram from Jannah and the deed of sacrificing an animal was made a practice for all Hadhrat Ibraheem (A.S)’s progeny to emulate. Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the 19th night of Taraaweeh Download Now After making brief mention of a few Ambiya (A.S), Allaah says, “Yunus was certainly from the messengers.” [verse 139] Thereafter, Allaah recounts the epic of Hadhrat Yunus (A.S) who grew weary of his people’s rejection and left the town without Allaah’s permission. When he undertook a journey by sea, a huge fish swallowed him whole. While in the fish’s stomach He repented to Allaah and Allaah forgave him. Allaah removed him from the fish’s belly and returned him to land. Surah Saad follows Surah Saaffaat. Allaah speaks of the obstinacy and pride of the Mushrikeen who did not want to accept the truth and refused to even listen to Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam). Allaah says that it is strange that “They are surprised that a warner has come from amongst them.” [verse 4] Allaah then reminds man of the various nations of the past that He destroyed on account of their sins so that they do not follow in their footsteps. Allaah also exhorts Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to patiently bear the harassment of the kuffaar. The Surah then proceeds to recount an incident in the life of Hadhrat Dawood (A.S) when Allaah tested him by making him judge a dispute between two persons. When he realised that it was a test from Allaah, he fell down in prostration before Allaah and begged forgiveness. The incident of Hadhrat Ayyoob (A.S) follows that of Hadhrat Dawood (A.S) and another of Hadhrat Sulaymaan (A.S). Allaah speaks about the severe illness that afflicted Hadhrat Ayyoob (A.S) which he endures with Herculean perseverance. Allaah then talks about certain other Ambiya (A.S), Allaah of whom Allaah says were “from the very best.” [verse 48] Thereafter, Allaah mentions that He granted Iblees respite to live till the Day of Qiyaamah. Although he will mislead mankind, he will have no power to deviate those whom Allaah has specially selected. Surah Zumar commences after Surah Saad and explains that Allaah will not guide people who lie and who refuse to believe. The Surah also emphasises that Allaah has not taken anyone as His son. Allaah is Alone, Omnipotent and does not require anything from the creation. Every person will have to account for his own doings when people are returned to Allaah on the Day of Qiyaamah. Allaah says that the Qur'aan is a book of advice and guidance which contains subject matter that is clear and without crookedness. By taking heed to its teachings, deviated people may be rightly guided and may save themselves from a grievous punishment.

Sūrah an-Nūr: Hijab One of the key qualities for eternal success mentioned in the previous sūrah was guarding chastity. This sūrah further amplifies on it and gives commands both for the preservation of that chastity and for the punishment when it is violated. It begins with the punishment for fornication, followed by punishment for slandering a chaste woman or man. These are two of the four Ḥudūd laws, which are not subject to any change with the passage of time. The other two Ḥudūd Laws deal with punishments for theft and consuming alcohol. It also deals with the slander of Sayyidah ʿĀ’ishah by the hypocrites, rebuking them and testifying to her chastity. It continues to give commands for the preservation of ḥayā in the social life of the Muslim community. This forms the essential Islamic “sex education” course. And a key component of that course is contained in the following two āyahs. قُل لِّلْمُؤْمِنِينَ يَغُضُّوا مِنْ أَبْصَارِهِمْ وَيَحْفَظُوا فُرُوجَهُمْ ۚ ذَٰلِكَ أَزْكَىٰ لَهُمْ ۗ إِنَّ اللَّهَ خَبِيرٌ بِمَا يَصْنَعُونَ Tell the believing men that they must restrain their gazes and guard their chastity; it is more decent for them. Surely Allāh is All-Aware of what they do. (An-Nūr, 24:30) وَقُل لِّلْمُؤْمِنَاتِ يَغْضُضْنَ مِنْ أَبْصَارِهِنَّ وَيَحْفَظْنَ فُرُوجَهُنَّ وَلَا يُبْدِينَ زِينَتَهُنَّ إِلَّا مَا ظَهَرَ مِنْهَا ۖ وَلْيَضْرِبْنَ بِخُمُرِهِنَّ عَلَىٰ جُيُوبِهِنَّ ۖ وَلَا يُبْدِينَ زِينَتَهُنَّ إِلَّا لِبُعُولَتِهِنَّ أَوْ آبَائِهِنَّ أَوْ آبَاءِ بُعُولَتِهِنَّ أَوْ أَبْنَائِهِنَّ أَوْ أَبْنَاءِ بُعُولَتِهِنَّ أَوْ إِخْوَانِهِنَّ أَوْ بَنِي إِخْوَانِهِنَّ أَوْ بَنِي أَخَوَاتِهِنَّ أَوْ نِسَائِهِنَّ أَوْ مَا مَلَكَتْ أَيْمَانُهُنَّ أَوِ التَّابِعِينَ غَيْرِ أُولِي الْإِرْبَةِ مِنَ الرِّجَالِ أَوِ الطِّفْلِ الَّذِينَ لَمْ يَظْهَرُوا عَلَىٰ عَوْرَاتِ النِّسَاءِ ۖ وَلَا يَضْرِبْنَ بِأَرْجُلِهِنَّ لِيُعْلَمَ مَا يُخْفِينَ مِن زِينَتِهِنَّ ۚ وَتُوبُوا إِلَى اللَّهِ جَمِيعًا أَيُّهَ الْمُؤْمِنُونَ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُفْلِحُونَ And tell the believing women that they must restrain their gazes and guard their chastity, and must not expose their adornment, except that which (necessarily) appears thereof, and must wrap their bosoms with their shawls, and must not expose their adornment, except to their husbands or their fathers or the fathers of their husbands, or to their sons or the sons of their husbands, or to their brothers or the sons of their brothers or the sons of their sisters, or to their women, or to those owned by their right hands, or male attendants having no (sexual) urge, or to the children who are not yet conscious of the private parts of women. And let them not stamp their feet in a way that the adornment they conceal is known. And repent to Allāh O believers, all of you, so that you may achieve success. (An-Nūr, 24:31) The first step toward preserving chastity is the creation of the environment in which temptations are minimized. A woman’s beauty is not public property to be enjoyed by one and all. It is a private treasure that has to be kept private. Both men and women have to restrain their gazes so the looks that can potentially start lusts are nipped in the bud. But women have to do more by covering themselves as detailed above. Ḥayā’ Islam’s laws about hijab, its ban against free mixing of men and women, its teachings about gender-relations—all of these reflect a deep concern for ḥayā. The only people who will try to water down these injunctions are those who are not fully cognizant of ḥayā’s central place in Islamic life and the destruction caused in the society by its absence. What is ḥayā? It is normally translated as modesty or inhibition but neither word conveys the same idea as ḥayā. Modesty suggests shunning indecent behavior but it also implies bashfulness based on timidity. That is why the adjective based on its opposite, immodest, is sometimes also used as a compliment suggesting courage. Inhibition is defined as: “Conscious or unconscious mechanism whereby unacceptable impulses are suppressed.” This is a very neutral definition with no reference to right or wrong. Thus one finds psychiatrists “helping” their patients overcome inhibitions. In contrast to the moral ambiguity of these words, ḥayā refers to an extremely desirable quality that protects us from all evil. It is a natural feeling that brings us pain at the very idea of committing a wrong. Along with its unique connotation comes the unique value of ḥayā in Islam. Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ said: “Every religion has a distinct call. For Islam it is ḥayā.” Another famous hadith says: “There are more than seventy branches of Īmān (faith). The foremost is the declaration that there is no god except Allāh and the least of it is removing harmful things from the path. And ḥayā is a branch of Īmān.” As some Muḥadithīn point out, the number seventy is a figure of speech. What the hadith tells us is that the declaration of faith is the most important part of Īmān but that is not all. Īmān also has to reflect itself in all kinds of actions in real life. Moreover, ḥayā is a centerpiece of most of the actions that Īmān calls for. It is the basic building block of Islamic morality. When it is lost everything is lost. Restraining Gazes The command to restrain gazes is seen today in wholesale violation. In fact women feel they are a greater target of stares on the streets, say, in Karachi or Istanbul than they are in Los Angeles or London. This sad reality then leads some to question the very restrictions being violated. Maybe we can have better morality if all the restrictions are removed? We need to put this delusion to rest. What we are seeing in Los Angeles or London are better manners and not better morals. The alarming rates of sexual improprieties at every level of the society, from the President on down, at the same time that sexual impropriety is being constantly redefined and narrowed down, are sufficient to put an end to this fanciful thesis. However it does show that when believers violate Allāh’s commands, they may become worse than anybody else in their manners as well. This should not detract us from the fact that the goal of the believers is to excel in both manners and morals. This can only be achieved by turning back to Allāh. Once again, we need to start listening to the Qur’ān to get out of this terrible mess. Qur'an Reflections Al-Balagh

Not Fasting during the Month of Ramadhaan without a Valid Excuse Q: What is the ruling regarding the person who does not fast during the month of Ramadhaan without a valid excuse and eats openly? A: Fasting is a salient feature of Islam. To openly eat and drink during the month of Ramadhaan is tantamount to showing disregard to the salient feature of Islam and a major sin. If the one who does not fast and openly eats and drinks regards it as a sin but does so due to weakness of Imaan he will be guilty of a major sin but will not come out of the fold of Islam. If he believes that there is no sin in what he is doing then such a person has regarded this salient feature of Islam as insignificant. Hence this will render him out of the fold of Islam. (Ahsanul Fataawa vol.1 pg.37) ولو أكل عمدا شهرة بلا عذر يقتل و تمامه في شرح الوهبانية قال في الوهبانية : ولو أكل الإنسان عمدا و شهرة ولا عذر فيه قيل بالقتل يؤمر قال الشرنبلالي صورتها: تعمد من لا عذر له الإكل جهارا يقتل لأنه مستهزئ بالدين أو منكر (ردالمحتار على در المختار ج2 ص413) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

Giving Sadaqatul Fitr to a Non-Muslim Q: If someone gives his sadaqatul fitr to a non-muslim in a Non-Islamic state, will the sadaqatul fitr be discharged? A: The sadaqatul fitr will not be discharged. ( ولا ) تدفع ( إلى ذمي ) لحديث معاذ ( وجاز ) دفع ( غيرها وغير العشر ) والخراج ( إليه ) أي الذمي ولو واجبا كنذر وكفارة وفطرة خلافا للثاني وبقوله يفتى حاوي القدسي وأما الحربي ولو مستأمنا فجميع الصدقات لا تجوز له اتفاقا بحر عن الغاية وغيرها لكن جزم الزيلعي بجواز التطوع له قال الشامي: قوله ( غير العشر ) فإنه ملحق بالزكاة ولذا سموه زكاة الزرع وأما الخراج فليس من الصدقات التي الكلامفيها ومصرفه مصالح المسلمين كما مر ولذا لم يستثن في الكنز و الهداية إلا الزكاة قوله ( خلافا للثاني ) حيث قال إن دفع سائر الصدقات الواجبة إليه لا يجوز اعتبارا بالزكاة وصرح في الهداية وغيرها بأن هذا رواية عن الثاني وظاهره أن قوله المشهور كقولهما قوله ( وبقوله يفتى ) الذي في حاشية الخير الرملي عن الحاوي وبقوله نأخذ قلت لكن كلام الهداية وغيرها يفيد ترجيح قولهما وعليه المتون قوله ( وأما الحربي ) محترز الذمي قوله ( عن الغاية ) أي غاية البيان وقوله وغيرها أي النهاية فافهم قوله ( لكن جزم الزيلعي بجواز التطوع له ) أي للمستأمن كما تفيده عبارة النهر ثم إن هذا لم أره في الزيلعي وكذا قال أبو السعود وغيره مع أنه مخالف لدعوى الاتفاق لكن رأيت في المحيط من كتاب الكسب ذكر محمد في السير الكبير لا بأس للمسلم أن يعطي كافرا حربيا أو ذميا وأن يقبل الهدية منه لما روي أن النبي بعث خمسمائة دينار إلى مكة حين قحطوا وأمر بدفعها إلى أبي سفيان بن حرب وصفوان بن أمية ليفرقا على فقراء أهل مكة ولأن صلة الرحم محمودة في كل دين والإهداء إلى الغير من مكارم الأخلاق الخ وسنذكر تمام الكلام على ذلك في أول كتاب الوصايا (رد المحتار 2/351-352) وأما أهل الذمة فلا يجوز صرف الزكاة إليهم بالاتفاق ويجوز صرف صدقة التطوع إليهم بالاتفاق واختلفوا في صدقة الفطر والنذور والكفارات قال أبو حنيفة ومحمد رحمهما الله تعالى يجوز إلا أن فقراء المسلمين أحب إلينا كذا في شرح الطحاوي وأما الحربي المستأمن فلا يجوز دفع الزكاة والصدقة الواجبة إليه بالإجماع ويجوز صرف التطوع إليه (الفتاوى الهندية 1/188) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

18th Night Taraweeh Summary The 22nd para is recited in this Taraaweeh. Referring to the time when Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) was upset with his on some account, Allaah tells them, “Oh wives of the prophet! You are not like any other women (but higher in status).” [verse 32] Allaah instructs them never to make a display of themselves and to learn the Qur'aan and Sunnah from their homes, which they should teach to others. Allaah advises that His commands be carried out even though difficulties have to be borne in achieving the same. Allaah then states, “Muhammed (sallallaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) is not the father of any man amongst you, but he is Allaah’s messenger and the seal of all prophets.” [verse 40] In honour of Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam), Allaah says in verse 56, “Verily Allaah and his angels shower their special mercies on the Prophet (sallallaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam). Oh you who believe! Convey mercies and salutations upon him.” Thereafter, Allaah makes mention of numerous laws of marriage, divorce, iddah and hijaab. In verse 70, Allaah commands the Muslims to speak only what is good because this will afford them the capacity to carry out good deeds. Allaah makes it clear that the only road to success is in following the teachings of Allaah and Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam). In verse 72 Allaah says that the awesome trust of bearing the Shari'ah was offered to the heavens, the earth and the mountains but they all shrank from the task. It was only man who was able to bear the responsibility. Allaah curses the kuffaar and Munafiqeen in this Surah, whereafter the Surah closes with mention of Allaah’s mercy. After Surah Ahzaab, Surah Saba begins with the dynamic statement that “All praise belongs to Allaah, to Whom belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth. All praise belongs to Him in the Hereafter as well. He is The Wise, the Informed.” Allaah dispels the foolish altercation of the kuffaar who say that they must be correct in their beliefs and deeds because Allaah has not yet annihilated them with His punishment. Allaah tells Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) that he should warn these kuffaar that Allaah’s punishment can afflict them at any stage just as it struck the nations of the past. There are lessons to be learnt from these incidents for people with Imaan. Relating the incidents of various Ambiya (A.S), Allaah begins with the narrative of Hadhrat Dawood (A.S). Allaah made iron soft for him, which he would mould as he pleased. Allaah also subjugated the birds and mountains for him, all of which would hymn Allaah’s Dhikr along with him. Allaah made a spring of copper gush forth for Hadhrat Sulaymaan (A.S) and also granted him control over the winds and the jinn. Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the 18th night of Taraaweeh Download Now Allaah speaks about the people of Saba in this Surah, whom Allaah destroyed in a flood because they were ungrateful for the bounties that He bestowed on them. Surah Faatir follows Surah Saba as the 35th Surah of the Qur'aan. Herein Allaah states that He has created the heavens and the earth without any previous example. Thereafter, Allaah states that He “made the angels messengers, possessing two, three and four wings. Allaah increases in His creation as He pleases. Verily Allaah has power over all things. There is none to withhold the mercy Allaah opens to people, and there is none to release the mercy that He withholds. He is the Mighty, the Wise.” [verse 1 and 2] Thereafter, Allaah warns man to beware of Shaytaan’s ploys because he beautifies the deeds of people for them so that sin appears to be virtuous to them. Shaytaan must be treated as the avowed enemy he is to man. Speaking about those who spend their wealth for Allaah’s pleasure, Allaah says that He will “grant them their reward in full and increase them from His grace. Verily He is Most Forgiving, Most Appreciative.” [verse 30] Every being is dependent on Allaah, Who has power to do whatever He pleases. Allaah declares in verse 45, “If Allaah was to take man to task for whatever he does, Allaah would not leave a single living creature on the face of the earth (because His punishment would destroy them all). But Allaah defers them till an appointed term.” Surah Yaaseen follows Surah Faatir. Allaah says that that He has revealed the Qur'aan to Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) so that he may guide people. However, there are those kuffaar who have veils upon their hearts and will not respond. Regarding them Allaah says, “It the same to them whether you warn them or you do not warn them. They will never believe. You can only warn him who follows the advice and fears Rahmaan without seeing Him. Give him the glad tidings of forgiveness and a bountiful provision.” [verses 10 and 11] The concluding verse of this Surah advises, “Follow those who do not ask any remuneration from you, and who are rightly guided.” [verse 21]

Watching TV Q. In my country, most tv programs including news broadcast are being sponsored by alcoholic companies or banks that deal in interest. though i bought my tv and pay my bills myself, is it haram for me to watch the programs because they are being sponsored by haram companies? Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. Watching television constitutes great harm and violation of Sharī’ah. Even sports programmes and news readings contain many sinful and prohibited items. Further, the moral and spiritual harms too are evident. Hereunder is an article on the harms of watching television and movies and the rationale behind its prohibition: Watching TV and movies Watching TV and movies is not permissible according to Islam because TV programmes and movies constitute multiple sins, of which even one would be sufficient to render something impermissible. The heinous effect TV and movies have had globally is as apparent as daylight, and yet those intoxicated by the effects of TV and movies cannot see this. One of the specialities of TV and movies is that it makes even a sensible person deaf, dumb and blind in that he deems permissible and acceptable the evils and sins displayed and promoted by TV and movies that he would normally, without hesitation, declare to be sinful and evil. He lets himself and his family watch and enjoy the evils that he would normally do everything to keep himself and his family away from. Such is the intoxicating effect of TV and movies that it causes all sense of morality and uprightness to go right down the drain. And because of this, families are breaking apart; immorality, lewdness and promiscuity are becoming the order of the day, the youngsters are becoming more disrespectful to their parents and elders, the youngsters and the adults alike are straying further away from the beautiful teachings of Islam and are instead adopting the ways and lifestyle of the immoral people, people are becoming more and more materialistic and are harbouring aversion to religion, and many other heinous acts are taking place that one would feel ashamed to write about. May Allah Ta’ala protect us. Hereunder are some sins that a person commits by watching TV and movies: · Looking at people of the opposite gender without dire necessity and in a way prohibited by Islam. The Quran commands the males and females alike to lower their gazes, and this is not feasible in the case of TV and movies. · Looking at people who are considered nude in Islam. · Listening to music. Music is a great sin in Islam. · Displaying pictures in the house. According to the hadith, pictures prevent angels of mercy from entering the house. If there are no angels of mercy in the house, the house will be full of devils. · Watching and listening to immoral people, thereby, creating admiration for them and their ways. The hadith tells us that a person in the life hereafter will be with the ones he loves and admires. · Watching and listening to things that are forbidden according to Islam, thereby, supporting such forbidden things. · Wasting time. Time is very precious according to Islam. · Putting oneself in a state of heedlessness. And because of this heedlessness, many salaats are not offered on time or at all. · Supporting the list of evils mentioned below that TV and movies promote. · By letting one’s family watch TV and movies, he invites them to commit all of the evils above and below. Therefore, instead of inviting them to the teachings of Islam, he invites them to the wrath of Allah. Instead of guiding them to paradise, he guides them to the fire of Hell. Not only are TV and movies evil in themselves, they quite boldly and openly promote evil in all its forms. The following are some evils that movies and TV promote indiscriminately that can be observed by any unbiased, sensible and honest person: · Nudity · Promiscuity · Intermingling of the genders · Profanity · Offensive language · Taking alcohol and drugs · Vulgarity · Vanity and arrogance · Violence · Crime · Greed · Corruption · Dishonesty · Atheism · Secularism · Mockery of religion · Disrespect · Defiance of authority · Disobedience of parents, teachers and elders. · Following ones whims and desires indiscriminately. Please remember that the list above is by no means exhaustive. The gist of the above is that a Muslim who fears Allah the Almighty and believes in the Day of Judgement and life after death should stay far away from TV and movies. He should instead spend his free time in things that please Allah Ta’ala such as listening to lectures of the Ulama (scholars), reading the Quran, hadith and Islamic literature, taking part in ilmi and deeni gatherings, etc. In addition, one should take the warnings contained in the following Qur’anic verses seriously: Translation: O you who believe! enter into Islam fully and do not follow the footsteps of Satan; surely he is your open enemy. (Quran 2:208) Verily Satan is an enemy to you: so treat him as an enemy. He only invites his adherents that they may become companions of the Blazing Fire. (Quran 35:6) And let not Satan turn you aside. Lo! he is an open enemy for you. (Quran 43:62) The reckoning has drawn near to men, and in heedlessness are they turning aside. (Quran 21:1) O you who believe, save your souls, and those of your families, from the fire whose fuel is men and stones, over which are set angels fierce and terrible; who disobey not Allah in what He has commanded them, but perform what they are commanded. (Quran 66:6) A poet has pertinently described the evil of letting loose and not controlling ones gaze, and it aptly applies to watching TV and movies: كل الحوادث مبداها من النظر … ومعظم النار من مستصغر الشرر والمرء ما دام ذا عين يقلبها … في أعين العين موقوف على الخطر كم نظرة فعلت في قلب فاعلها … فعل السهام بلا قوس ولا وتر يسر ناظره ما ضر خاطره … لا مرحباً بسرور عاد بالضرر Translation: All evil occurrences begin with ones glance, And most fires are caught by (negligence of) those who deem sparks insignificant. A man remains in danger as long as his eyes scrutinize the eyes of (beautiful) women with large (gorgeous) eyes, How many a glance has done to the heart the same as what an arrow would do — without any bow or string. The one glancing is pleased with what harms his inner self. No thanks to pleasure that brings harm.[1] In light of all these harms, it is impermissible to watch television, regardless of whether the programmes have been sponsored by companies dealing in alcohol and interest or not. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Nabeel Valli Student Darul Iftaa Lusaka, Zambia Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. www.daruliftaa.net

Breaking a Fast on the Advise of a Doctor Q: A person whilst fasting had fallen ill. The doctor advised him to break his fast. Is he sinful for doing so and will both Qadha and Kaffarah be Waajib or only Qadha? A: If he is unable to continue with the fast it will be permissible for him to break the fast and only Qadha will be Waajib. المريض إذا خاف على نفسه التلف أو ذهاب عضو يفطر بالإجماع وإن خاف زيادة العلة وامتداده فكذلك وعليه القضاء إذا أفطر كذا في المحيط (الفتاوى الهندية ج1 ص207) ( أو مريض خاف الزيادة ) لمرضه (الدر المختار 2/422-فصل في العوارض المبيحة لعدم الصائم) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

17th Night Taraweeh Summary Till the sixteenth Taraaweeh, one and a quarter paras were being recited nightly. From the 17th Taraaweeh, only one para will be recited nightly. Therefore, this (17th) Taraaweeh will includes the entire 21st para, which is made up of part of Surah Ankaboot, the entire Surah Roum, Surah Luqmaan, Surah Sajdah, and a part of Surah Ahzaab (till verse 30). Allaah addresses Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) saying. “Recite that of the Book, which has been revealed to you and establish salaah. Verily salaah forbids from obscenity and evil.” [verse 45] So that the Ahlul Kitaab (Jews and Christians) can accept Islam, Allaah advises, “Only debate with the People of the Book with that which is best; save for those of them who are unjust. And say, ‘We believe in what was revealed to us (the Qur'aan) and what was revealed to you (just as well). Our deity and your deity is One and we surrender to Him.” [verse 46] Allaah mentions how strange it is that the kuffaar believe that Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) wrote the Qur'aan whereas they all knew well that he was unlettered. It is obvious that the Qur'aan could have only proceeded from Allaah. Allaah addresses the Mu'mineen saying, “Oh My believing bondsmen! Indeed my earth is vast, so worship Me only (wherever you may go). Every soul shall taste death, whereafter you people will be returned to Us.” [verse 56/7] Later in the Surah Allaah discusses Jannah and also mentions that all sustenance comes from Allaah only. Thereafter Allaah says that He will certainly guide aright those who strive in His cause. Allaah says, “We shall definitely show Our avenues to those who endure suffering in Our cause. Verily Allaah is certainly with those who do good.” [verse 69] After Surah Ankaboot, Surah Roum begins by telling people that although the Persians defeated the Romans in battle, the Mu'mineen will be pleased to note that the Romans will be victorious within a few years. Thereafter, Allaah cites numerous signs that denote His great power and might. Allaah then asserts that Islam is true and cannot be altered. Allaah adds, “This is the upright religion, but most people do not know.” [verse 30] Allaah also announces to people that usurious trade can never be profitable because it is haraam and devoid of blessings. Blessings are in that wealth from which zakaah is paid. Allaah says in verse 39, “Whatever usury you give to increase people’s wealth does not increase in Allaah’s sight. Whatever you give in zakaah, seeking Allaah’s pleasure, then such people truly multiply (their rewards).” Allaah also tells Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) that there will be some people who will never accept the truth despite his most concerted efforts. This is because the seal of ignorance has been stamped on their hearts. The entire Surah Roum centres around the following three subjects: 1) The purpose behind the creation of everything. 2) The proofs of Tauheed. 3) Islam is a natural endowment. After Surah Roum, Surah Luqmaan commences by stating, “These are verses of the Wise Book (the Qur'aan, which is) A guidance and mercy for those who do good.” Thereafter, Allaah speaks about another breed of people when He says (in verse 6) that there are those who seek futile pastimes which deviate them from remembering Allaah. Allaah then conveys the message of Tauheed. Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the night of Taraaweeh Download Now Later in the Surah, Allaah speaks about Hadhrat Luqmaan (A.S) and quotes his words of advice. Allaah says, “We certainly granted wisdom to Luqmaan (inspiring him) to express gratitude to Allaah. Whoever will be grateful to Allaah, expresses gratitude for his own benefit. As for him who is ungrateful, Allaah is certainly Independent, Most Worthy of praise.” [verse 12] Hadhrat Luqmaan (A.S) never perpetrated shirk and he also enjoined his children never to commit this vile deed. Allaah declares, “Oh people! Fear Allaah and beware of the day when a father will be of no avail to his son, nor will a child be of any avail to his father.” [verse 33] The Surah also teaches man never to walk with pride, never to turn one’s face away from another, and never to raise his voice because the worst of all sounds is that of the donkey. Allaah then repeats the message of Tauheed when He cites various bounties that He has bestowed on man. Allaah concludes the Surah with the verse: “Verily the knowledge of Qiyamah is only with Allaah, He sends the rains and knows what is in the wombs. A soul does not know what it will earn tomorrow and does not know which land it will die in. Undoubtedly Allaah is All Knowing, Informed.” Surah Sajdah begins after Surah Luqmaan and primarily discusses the truth of the Qur'aan and the distinction of man. Allaah remarks that the kuffaar are truly foolish to believe that although Allaah created the heavens, the earth and all of creation, he could not reveal the Qur'aan. Allaah says about these rejecters, “Who is more unjust than he who is reminded of the verses of his Rabb and then turns away therefrom? We will certainly exact retribution from the criminals.” [verse 22] Allaah concludes the Surah by telling Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam), “So turn away from them and wait. They are also waiting.” [verse 30] Allaah then begins Surah Ahzaab by saying, “Oh Prophet (sallallaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam)! Fear Allaah and do not follow the disbelievers and the hypocrites. Undoubtedly Allaah is ever the All Knowing, the Wise. Follow what has been revealed to you from your Rabb. Allaah is Ever Informed of what you do.” Allaah makes it clear in this Surah that he has neither granted any wife the status of her husband’s mother nor has He granted any adopted child the status of a biological child. Allaah says that adopted children will retain the name of their biological fathers and should not be referred to as the children of the adoptive father. Allaah says about Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) and his wives, “The Prophet (sallallaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) has a greater relationship with the believers than even their own selves, and his wives are their mothers.” [verse 6] In verse 19 Allaah speaks about those people who refuse o participate in jihaad for fear of jihaad itself or for fear of death. Allaah says about them: “These are the ones who do not believe, so Allaah annihilates their deeds.” Towards the end of the Surah Allaah tells people, “There is definitely an excellent example in Allaah’s messenger (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) for the one who fears Allaah and the Last Day, and remembers Allaah abundantly.” [verse 21] May Allaah make us practise habitually upon the teachings of the Shari'ah and have perfect trust in Him. May He cast us into the mould of Islam and allow us to follow in the footsteps of Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam). Aameen.

Sūrah al-Mu’minūn Reflections on Falāḥ (Success) This sūrah begins with the promise of falāḥ for the believers who have certain qualities. It ends with the categorical assertion that non-believers will not get falāḥ. The first eleven āyahs specify the type of person who will definitely achieve falāḥ. Translated as success, falāḥ signifies a state where a person’s every wish comes true and at the same he is protected from everything undesirable. This point is also made explicit in other āyahs. “We have been your friends in the worldly life, and (will remain as such) in the Hereafter. And for you here is whatever your souls desire, and for you here is whatever you call for.” “And there will be whatever souls desire and that which eyes enjoy. And you will be living in it forever.” The point to ponder is that if everyone can get all their wishes fulfilled, this could also potentially lead to chaos. People, after all, are capable of harboring wild wishes! The answer is that only those people will be admitted to Paradise who can handle such a privilege with responsibility, who have purified themselves thoroughly and developed a personality that is qualified to get such a blank check. Paradise is an exclusive place. Not in the sense that it is reserved for a specific race or nationality or color or economic standing. But in the sense that it is meant only for those who have developed the required personal qualities. It is a beautiful place, more beautiful than the most beautiful place the human mind can even imagine. It is meant for people who have developed an inner beauty. Unlike physical beauty which may be inherited, this is the beauty of the soul which is to be acquired—through the purification of one’s intentions and actions. The qualities mentioned in this sūrah (āyah 1-11) should be read with this perspective in mind. This is not a disjointed list of some things that believers are supposed to do; the qualities paint the portrait of the God fearing and God conscious personality that is always seeking good and avoiding evil. We should be judging ourselves not only on the specific qualities listed here but also on how close we are to that ideal personality to see how far we are from true and eternal success. Qualities for Attaining Falāḥ The listed qualities are: A) They are believers. This is the key quality. The success in the Hereafter belongs only to the believers. The point is further emphasized in the end of this sūrah, where it says: “Lo! Disbelievers will not be successful.” Paradise is not something that will be given away to those who do not even believe in it and are not even seeking it. B) They concentrate their attention in humbleness when offering ṣalāh (prayers). This is the state of their prayer. Concentration and humbleness mark it, and with the frequency of ṣalāh in their daily life, make these the overriding parts of their personality. C) They keep themselves away from vain things. They stay away not only from sins, but also from vain pursuits and useless and purposeless activities. They know the value of their time and their resources and do not waste any of them on things that will not contribute to their success. D) They are performers of Zakāh. This refers to self purification as well as the purification of one’s wealth through the charitable donation normally known as Zakāh. E) They guard their chastity. They stay away from all extramarital sex and things that can lead to it. F) They honestly look after their trusts and covenants. They are a people for whom talk is not cheap. When they give their word, they honor it. Their pledges are solid. They are honorable people in their dealings with everyone. G) They (strictly) guard their prayers.The desirable traits are bracketed with references to ṣalāh, thus indicating that it is the pillar of the successful personality. A Muslim negligent in his prayers is far from the model of success that Islam espouses. Qur'an Reflections Al-Balagh

Are watching cartoons and animated movies permissible? what is the ruling on watching cartoons and animated movies and playing games ? Answer In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. The permissibility of digital photography and videos is a highly contested issue amongst contemporary ‘Ulamā. Whilst many ‘Ulamā permit this, many others consider it to be the same as typical photography, hence deeming it impermissible. However, there are many other aspects to be considered in cartoons and games that are often overlooked. Cartoons have proved to be extremely detrimental to a child’s health by many researchers and psychologists. Some of the points deduced from these researches are as follows: Children may become less sensitive to the pain and suffering of others. Children who watch violence neither fear violence nor are they bothered by violence in general. Children are more likely to become aggressive or resort to harmful actions towards others. High levels of violence in cartoons can make children more aggressive. Animated shows aimed at youngsters often have more brutality than programmes broadcast for general audiences.[1] Children have grown much more interested in cartoons in recent years and it has become the main pastime for them; whereas previously children spent their time in outdoor activities playing with their peers and enjoying different games. Children who consistently spend more than 4 hours a day watching TV are more likely to be overweight and are prone to violence. Kids who see violent acts are more likely to show aggressive behavior and also may fear that the world is scary and that something bad will happen to them. These children are impatient and disobedient. Increases their appetite for more violence in entertainment and in real life. Cartoon violence is damaging to the children because they cannot tell the difference between real life and fiction.The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) both believe that TV does influence the behavior of children as young as one year old. “Children who view shows in which violence is very realistic, frequently repeated or unpunished are more likely to imitate what they see,” AACAP says. This speaks to the impressionable minds of children, who are still learning control of their minds and bodies, and are likely to mimic what they see. AACAP also stresses the need for parents to keep a close eye on what their children watch. “Parents must be there,” AACAP said.[2] Children who watch too much cartoons on television are more likely to have mental and emotional problems, along with brain and eye injuries and unexpectedly the risk of a physical problem increases. From the time children start school to the time that they graduate they are averaged to spend around 18,000 hours watching television. · A tremendous amount of childhood involvement with electronic media can limit social interaction and may obstruct the development of a brain’s social systems. In December 1997, an episode of the Japanese cartoon “Pocket Monster” (later renamed “Pokémon” for international distribution) drew worldwide attention after multiple cases of children suffering seizures after watching the episode were reported (Warner, 2004). “Either high-speed flashes of light or rapid color changes are thought able to induce seizures in vulnerable individuals.” They found this to be the reason for so many seizures in Japan. “Rapid changing stimuli can play havoc with the special cells in the retina called rods and cones that help the eye transmit visual information to the brain.” Cartoons are displaying false sense of reality upon children. At a young age, this false sense of reality can really affect them. The risk of injury rose by about 34% in the children studied. Cartoon makers are intentionally brainwashing their children by secretly placing messages never to be deciphered by the conscious mind, but instead propagating the subconscious, into behaving a certain way. This practice is known as subliminal messaging.[3] It is clear and evident from the points mentioned above that the dilemma does not lie simply in the content of the cartoon but in the harms concomitant to it as well. It is a basic principle in Islam to keep our distance from anything that may reciprocate harm. Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘Alayhi Wasallam mentioned: لَا ضَرَرَ وَلَا ضِرَارَ “There should be neither harming nor reciprocating harm.”[4] These were only the harms confirmed and verified by the scientists. There are many other factors that cartoons contain which Shari’ah deems to by impermissible. Consider the following: Music Subliminal messages making the intermingling with the opposite gender seem normal Justification to the exposure of the satr Instilling immorality within one’s self Inculcating the traits and qualities of the Kuffār Wasting time. Time is very precious according to Islam. Promotion of the many evils viewed in the cartoon Offensive language alcohol and drugs Disrespect to the parents, teachers and elders. Vulgarity Violence It is clear from the above; the harms of watching cartoons are too obvious.[5] And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best AbdulMannan Nizami Student Darul Iftaa Chicago, IL, USA Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. www.daruliftaa.net

Understanding Television What Can Be Done? By Khalid Baig Television has spread like a wild fire in the world, including the Muslim world. It seems to have overcome the limitations of space and time. Consider place. In Saudi Arabia, one can find the imprints of Hollywood only a few yards away from the Haram, the most sacred of all sanctuaries of Islam. Videocassettes are easily available at stores. A hotel attendant, at a walking distance from the Haram al-Sharif in Makkah can be found busy watching English movies on the television in his office even as the prayers are going on. At the Jeddah airport, the Umrah pilgrims can watch a European beauty contest courtesy of an Egyptian TV channel being broadcast to the airport television sets. Consider time. Ramadan is the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar, a period of time that is to be devoted to direct acts of worship of Allah. Yet, during Ramadan, believers around the world can be found glued to their television sets when they should be busy making dua, doing dhikr and tilawa or offering nafl prayers. Or consider the time of suffering. Hardly a day goes by when we do not get the news of pain and suffering from Palestine, Kashmir, Iraq, Chechnya, Afghanistan, or a dozen other hot spots around the globe. Yet, between all the suffering and grieving that accompanies the tragedy, the dish antennas on the rooftops have been flourishing. In the past at times of catastrophes people would turn to Allah, would stop going to the cinema houses, and would repent from sins, even though temporarily. Today, there is an ever-increasing appetite for the television fun. This is also true in the lands closest to the areas of suffering. On days when a strike is called to protest Indian atrocities in Kashmir, the video stores in Karachi run out of videos of Indian movies. Throughout the world religious, moral and social values have been drastically undermined by this great "technological gift" of the century. And entire nations seem to be helplessly "enjoying" the invasion. When people are doing nothing, they watch television. When they are doing something else, they still have television in the background. The device has contributed to the addition of a new space in the architecture of the private home: the TV lounge. It is a space where perfect strangers come to pedal nudity, immorality, and hedonism. This is the space, which increasingly controls the entire house. It is fashionable to complain about "excessive" sex and violence on television. Even those who make money from this enterprise willingly do that. CNN tycoon Ted Turner said in July 93 before a U.S Congressional subcommittee: "I don't need experts to tell me that the amount of violence on television today and its increasingly graphic portrayal can be harmful to children. Television violence is the single most significant factor contributing to violence in America." And a poll released in February 95 in the U.S. by Children Now, whose directors include TV producers and Warner Brothers Chairman, reported that most children believe that what they see on television encourages fornication, disrespect for parents, telling lies, and aggressive behavior. The most significant thing here is that what the TV industry wants us to discuss (and we willingly follow) is what is ON television, not television itself. Everyone will wholeheartedly agree with the problems with TV programs and offer all kinds of advice. (Watch the programs with your children. Tell them what is wrong. Be critical. Be creative.) Irrational and meaningless as it is, this exercise will nonetheless soothe your irritation. In the meantime, keep on watching. It is fun. It is also unavoidable. In about two decades, this "wonderful" technical development has played havoc with societies around the globe. But what is even more unprecedented is the ambivalence with which these societies face this greatest of all invasions. Underlying this is a strongly held belief that television is a neutral tool that can be used with equal facility for good or evil. Unfortunately, this position has been taken without any critical examination of the facts. It is about time that we approached the subject with an open mind.Neutral Tool? Is technology ever neutral? "[Every technology] has within its physical form a predisposition toward being used in certain ways and not others," writes Niel Postman, chair of the department of Communication Arts at New York University. "Only those who know nothing of the history of technology believe that a technology is entirely neutral." (Amusing Ourselves to Death, 1985). What about television? It reflects the idea that serious discourse can be carried out through pictures instead of words. As Postman explains: "The single most important fact about television is that people watch it, which is why it is called ‘television.' And what they watch, and like to watch, are moving pictures?? millions of them, of short duration and dynamic variety. It is in the nature of the medium that it must suppress the content of ideas in order to accommodate the requirements of visual interest." Words and pictures do not occupy the same universe of discourse. A piece of writing requires one to go beyond the shape of the letters to read them. It requires thought to understand what is being said. Television does not require reflection, in fact it does not even permit it. That is why little children can spend hours in front of the mini screen. Television can titillate, it cannot teach. It can bring images into our heart, not ideas into our mind. It appeals to the emotions, not the intellect. But isn't a picture worth a thousand words? Is it? It is important to note that this claim itself is made in words. A picture cannot make any claims. For reason, arguments, claims, and judgment belong in the universe of words not pictures. That is why advertisers love pictures. Consider an ad for, say, Coca-Cola, that just shows young people singing, dancing, having fun, and enjoying the drink. The audiences make the connection between happiness and Coke. This ad cannot be refuted. It makes no claim, so there is nothing to refute.Medium Is The Message The above explains Marshal McLuhan's famous aphorism. The inherent, built in biases of a medium allow certain types of messages and not others. The communication is conditioned by the medium. It is enhanced or distorted by it. The medium is the message. And when the medium is TV, the message is Entertainment. As Postman notes: "Entertainment is the supra ideology of all discourse on television." Whether it is news, science, religion, or education, if it is happening on TV, it must follow the dictates of entertainment. In fact, a new term has been coined indicating a blend of education and entertainment: Edutainment. It smells like the language problem of a TV baby. But remember that it is already being used by the serious press. Which suggests that edutainment will produce even more edutainment!Like A Drug Actually, TV is not just another kind of entertainment either. As a project by the National Institute of Mental Health in the U.S. involving 1200 subjects in nine studies over a 13 year period found in 1990, television is like a drug. The researchers asked the subjects, ages 10 to 82, to note down their activities and moods every time a beeper was activated, which was done randomly. The researchers found that when people sit down to watch TV, particularly for long periods, they tend to be in low moods. The longer they watch, the less able they are to concentrate. As time goes on, they grow sadder, lonelier, more irritable, and more hostile. Although people are relaxed when the television set is on, when they turn it off, they are less relaxed than before they began, "much like a drug that makes people feel better while they are doing it but worse afterward." And just like a drug the weaker segments of the society are its greatest target. Thus in the U.S. blacks tend to watch more TV than whites. And now thanks to satellite TV transmissions over which the poor countries have no control, the rest of the world is being turned into the U.S. black under class.Islamic Work And Television Can this dangerous drug be somehow converted into a medicine? Not too long ago, a young professional in the U.S. approached prominent Muslim scholar and Deputy Cairman of the Jeddah based Islamic Fiqh Council of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC), Justice Taqi Usmani to inquire about his profession. He produced computer graphics for the television and motion picture industry. This is the age of the media, and the only effective way to spread Islam today is through television and movies, he argued. If we do not learn the trade how shall we be able to produce such programs and if we don't who will, he inquired. Yet, some people had told him that it was not a good profession. "I have given a lot of anxious thought to this issue," replied Justice Usmani in his characteristic measured tone, weighing every word. "And I have reached the conclusion that the cause of Islam cannot be served through television, especially under the current circumstances. You should seek another line of work." Frankly, there are lot of enthusiasts who may be totally bewildered by this answer for it challenges both conventional wisdom as well as some dearly held dreams. They may even consider anyone making this suggestion as belonging to the Flat Earth Society: backward, anti-progress, ignorant of today's realities. Let us grant them their day in court and look at their case objectively. The enthusiasts have shown interest in three primary areas. The first deals with propagation of Islam. There are lots of sincere Muslims putting lot of hope in a yet-to-be-released video that will attract the people of the world to Islam by the thousands. They are simply confusing Dawah with propaganda! Dawah means inviting people to the Straight Path by relaying the True Message to them without any distortion. It is a very serious message and requires a serious medium to deliver it. The message is for their own benefit and what they do with it is their own business. Our job is done once we have communicated the message correctly. Our job is not to manipulate people into submission to Allah any more than it is to coerce them into it. A Dawah worker is a teacher, a propagandist is a manipulator. Television is a good tool for manipulating, not for teaching. The second area deals with the education ("edutainment") of children. Many videos have already been produced for this purpose. In one program from a popular series of such videos, a puppet named Adam drives a skateboard to the mosque. Scenes of Adam doing his antics are mixed with the videos of real children praying. But there is no doubt that Adam is the hero of this story. Here is a clear case of the medium distorting the message. The children who learn to pray this way may learn the mechanics of Salat, but they would have paid a terrible price for it. The idea of Salat will be associated in their mind with the images of puppets, skateboards, and the idea of fun. Missing will be the spiritual dimension of prayer, the solemnness and grace of this pillar of Islam. Such videos are very popular as they help assuage the guilt feelings of parents over their failure to control the TV in the first place. To be fair there is a useful role for these videos but it is not normally perceived. Doctors use nicotine patches to help their patients stop smoking. Nicotine is not a medicine, but it becomes therapeutic under the circumstances. Similarly, the TV addicts may be helped by such videos to get over their addiction. It might work if that is the goal. But this is very different from the view that here is a Brave New Way of teaching Islam. The children and their parents must realize that ultimately they have to learn their religion the old fashioned way: read books, listen to lectures, work hard. The third type of videos are used by relief organizations showing the terrible situation of Muslims in Kashmir, Bosnia, Palestine and elsewhere. The intentions are noble, the results look great. But someone must ask the hard question: Why should the Muslims need disaster pornography before they can come to the help of their brothers and sisters? What are the implications of this practice for both present and future? There are, of course, cases where the TV is being used against its grain, where the only video is that of a talking head. Such Islamic programs in Egypt or Saudi Arabia, as elsewhere, may not contain all the dangers cited above, solely because there the TV is being used just as an expensive radio. The problem is such programs will not be able to withstand the onslaught of CNN or MTV, of dazzling colors and dynamic pictures. The question remains how long can you use a tool against its grain? The simple fact is that no one buys a TV and VCR because they desperately wanted to learn about Islam and it was the best way of doing it. The TV lounge is not a study room and all the Islamic videos in the world are not going to make it one. It is a peace of Hollywood. The rest is camouflage or self-deception. The earlier we get out of it, the better.What Can Be Done?Television is powerful. It is everywhere. Is there anything that us mortals can do about it? The answer is yes. Things can be done at individual, as well as collective levels. At the individual level, try using the ON/OFF switch. It takes some effort and will power, but the device can be turned off. The key is to involve the entire family. Those nervous about the idea may rest assured that there is no known disease linked to lack of exposure to TV! Also those who have tried it know that it becomes easier with time. Community Organizations and Islamic Schools can help by educating the people about the perils of watching TV, countering the social pressures, and providing healthy alternatives. Ramadan: The TV Free Month. Our best chance of kicking the television habit comes in Ramadan every year. It is the time of year when every Muslim who has any trace of Iman in his or her heart, is naturally inclined toward doing good and staying away from evil. And it should be like that. Did not the Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, curse the Muslim who finds Ramadan but does not use it to seek forgiveness for his previous sins? If we cannot leave sins or vain activities during Ramadan, when can we? We not only have the strongest moral and religious reasons to do so, it is also easy because the regular activities of Ramadan leave little time to be wasted in front of television. Muslim organizations and communities will do a great service by launching a campaign to declare Ramadan as the TV free month. Urge all the Muslims in your community to turn it off for at least one month. And who knows, after one month many may decide to stay away from it because of the personal insights they got through the experience. Of course, if you are convinced, do not wait until the next Ramadan. Start today. By Khalid Baig Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net

The Search for Laylatul Qadr Hazrat Aisha Radhiyallahu Anha reports Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, “Search for the Night of Power in the odd nights of the last ten nights of Ramadhan.”(Bukhari) Hazrat Aisha Radhiyallahu Anha once asked Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam, “If I find Laylatul Qadr, what Dua should I recite?” Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam replied: اَللّٰهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي “O Allah! Verily You are most forgiving. You love to forgive, therefore forgive me.” (Tirmizi) Hazrat Anas Radhiyallahu Anhu reports that Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, “When Laylatul Qadr occurs, Jibraeel Alayhis Salaam descends with a very large group of angels onto earth, making Dua-e-Rahmah (mercy) for those engaged in Salaah, remembrance of Allah and other acts of worship.” (Mazhari)

Taking Zakaah beyond Ramadaan by Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (rahmatullah alayh) Alhamdulillah, we find that with the commencement of Ramadaan, thousands of Muslims begin to contribute to different noble causes – whether these are specific for Ramadaan, such as providing Iftaar, Sehri or hampers for the poor, or whether in respect to the general efforts made to alleviate the plight of those who are suffering in different parts of the world. …So monies begin to pour in by way of Zakaah, Sadaqah and Lillah – Alhamdulillah. May Allah Ta’ala accept the different contributions. There is, however, one shortfall when it comes to the payment of Zakaah, and that is, that the majority choose to give their Zakaah in the month of Ramadaan, thinking that they are getting a greater reward giving in Ramadaan; whereas for many, their Zakaah was sometimes due months before. This deliberate delay in payment of Zakaah makes the person a faasiq (an open transgressor). …Even though one is paying later and that too, in the blessed month of Ramadaan, one reaches Ramadaan and one enters Ramadaan, as a flagrant sinner. Allah Ta’ala save us and forgive us. The setback to this pattern and tendency is that we have an overwhelming amount of Zakaah and charity paid out in the month of Ramadaan. And since Zakaah is something which needs to be distributed and discharged as soon as possible, we find that for the next 11 months, many organisations do not have such funds to continue their assistance to the poor and needy – because of the imbalance created. If everyone paid his or her Zakaah timeously, when it is due – whether Muharram, Safar, Rabiul Awwal, Rajab, instead of all being given out in the month of Ramadaan – then some equilibrium would be established in the discharge of Zakaah and in the assistance rendered to the poor and needy for the remaining year. Moreover, this payment of Zakaah in its correct time, should not thereafter make the giver negligent in spending in other avenues at other times. We should increase our generosity in the month of Ramadaan and also spend whenever and wherever there may be a call for assistance – and that spending should be from our wealth. …Because Zakaah is not our wealth. It does not belong to us, that we can keep and use as we wish. It rightfully belongs to the poor. It is their wealth. So we should be giving from our own wealth, over and above Zakaah. Furthermore, when giving Zakaah or Sadaqah, then it is very important to keep in mind, the dignity of the recipient and to give with respect and consideration. Many people consider that they are doing a favour to the poor and needy when giving charity, and they do so in a manner which demeans and debases the poor and needy. Let us understand this point: We are in need of them. The reality is that we are the needy ones, for if there were no poor, needy and destitute people in the world, to whom would we give our Zakaah and discharge that due? To whom would we give our Sadaqaat and draw rewards? Moreover, Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi waSallam) described the poor as ‘very rich people’ and directed us to keep contact with them and spend on them because on the Day of Judgment they will be told to lead every such person who favoured them, into Jannah. Other Ahaadeeth describe how, in the Hereafter, the poor will be the ones who will come to the assistance of those who did them a good turn in the worldly life. The poor will thus become the means of najaat (salvation) for many who may have been very wealthy in this worldly life. They may even be the ones who will hold our hands and take us with them into Jannah. Thus, we need to be conscious and mindful of the dignity and self-respect of the poor. They too have a right to respect. May Allah Ta’ala grant us this understanding, grant us the Taufeeq to practice accordingly, grant us sincerity in our spending and accept our Zakaah, Sadaqaat and other humble efforts to please Him. Source

Pornography - Preventative Measures

If there was thumbs up emoticon, i would use at least three...hmm maybe we should have it here