ummtaalib

Israeli ethnic cleansing and Demolitions continue

A Journey Through Salah Ṣalāh is a unique act of worship involving every one of our body parts. Every requirement and component of ṣalāh has its own impact, its own flavour and experience. Every action and statement have their own form of servitude (ʿubūdiyyah) to Allah (ʿazza wa jall). The journey through ṣalāh is remarkable. Each part is a unique milestone, bringing its own **sweetness** (ḥalāwah) and joy. Ṣalāh combines the recitation of the Qur’ān, dhikr and duʿā’. Each one of these is an extremely praiseworthy act of worship outside of ṣalāh. Ṣalāh, however, combines all three acts in one setting. Moreover, ṣalāh is an act where you simultaneously worship Allah (ʿazza wa jall) using your tongue, body and heart. Ṣalāh differs from fasting, zakāh and ḥajj in that we are obligated to perform ṣalāh every day; not once but five times. Praying five times a day allows us to renew our pledge to Allah (ʿazza wa jall) five times a day. As humans, we immerse ourselves in this world and, therefore, tend to forget Him. As soon as we are about to drown in our heedlessness (ghaflah), ṣalāh intervenes, offering a lifeline that pulls us swiftly out of it. The sins perpetrated in between the prayers take us away from Him, harden our hearts and stop us from being true slaves. Ṣalāh is, therefore, our ‘spiritual cleanser’, expiating the sins committed between two prayers. This chapter will take you on a journey through ṣalāh, exploring the secrets and significance of each posture, along with their various adhkār. Attending The Court Of The Almighty If you are going to meet an important leader or king, you will make sure that you are prepared. You will shower, perfume and wear your smartest clothes. When preparing for ṣalāh, you are actually preparing to meet the King of all kings: Allah (ʿazza wa jall) Himself. The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said, “When one of you performs ṣalāh, let him wear both of his garments, for Allah is most worthy of being adorned for” (Bayhaqī). Studies in psychology and science have shown that what you wear affects your behaviour and mental state. Allah (ʿazza wa jall) says, “O Children of Ādam, take on your adornment at every place of worship.” (7:31). Commenting on this āyah, the scholars have mentioned that it is praiseworthy to adorn oneself, apply perfume and use miswāk in preparation for ṣalāh. Doing this will: 1. Give us reward for acting upon the Sunnah. 2. Prepare us, mentally and psychologically, for ṣalāh. 3. Helps us give ṣalāh its due importance and seriousness, and thereby improve the quality of our ṣalāh. Adorn yourself for the honour of meeting Allah (ʿazza wa jall), al-Aʿlā (The Greatest). Preparing yourself in such a manner should be out of your humility and respect for Him, not out of personal vanity or pride. Miswāk The Messenger of Allah ﷺ said, Reflect Just as you cover your body in ṣalāh (satr al-ʿawrah), Allah (ʿazza wa jall), the Concealer of sins (al-Sittīr), covers your sins. Remembering your sins (of which only Allah (ʿazza wa jall) knows) should invoke shyness in you, and fill your mind with remorse and embarrassment. It should make you lower your head and turn to Him in the manner befitting of a sincere repentant slave. Source

Israel admits to killing 5 children in a raid on a cemetery in Gaza Israel admitted responsibility for killing five Palestinian children in an air strike on the Fallujah cemetery in the town of Jabalia, in the northern Gaza Strip, on 7 August, after it had initially claimed they were killed as a result of a missile fired by Islamic Jihad. "Israeli defence officials have confirmed that Israel was responsible for the deaths of five minors killed on the last day of the recent hostilities with Islamic Jihad this month," reported Haaretz newspaper today. "An army inquiry into the incident, which occurred on August 7 in the Al-Faluja Cemetery east of Jabalya, has concluded that the minors were killed by an Israeli airstrike, several defence sources have confirmed," added the newspaper. It also reported that "Immediately after their deaths, several senior officers said the five were most likely killed by a misfired Islamic Jihad rocket." On the other hand, the newspaper indicated that an army investigation concluded that another incident, which resulted in the killing of eight Palestinian civilians, including children, that occurred on a day earlier was a result of a "misfired Islamic Jihad rocket." The newspaper stated: "The Palestinians had claimed the eight were killed by Israel, but the army quickly released evidence indicating that they were actually killed by Islamic Jihad." Israeli army spokesman Ran Kochav said: "We didn't conduct any strikes in that area, not in urban areas and not at that time." The five victims in the air strike on the cemetery were identified as Jamil Al-Din Nijm, 3, Jamil Ihab Nijm, 13, Mohammad Salah Nijm, 16, Hamed Haidar Nijm, 16, and Nathmi Abu Karsh, 15. Over the course of three days from 5-7 August, the Israeli army launched raids on the Gaza Strip, which, according to the Palestinian Ministry of Health, resulted in the death of 49 people, including 17 children and four women, and 360 injuries. Source

A Summary of the Creed of the Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama’ah Regarding the Sahaabah (radiyallahu anhum) in Light of the Quraan & Sunnah Mufti Taahir Hansa – Jamiatul Ulama KZN Midlands THE IMPORTANCE OF CORRECT AQEEDAH While people in general focus on the visible structure of a building above the ground and admire its design and architecture, the architects and engineers have to ensure that the foundation is rock-solid or else the entire beautiful structure collapses as a heap of worthless rubble. Exactly is the case with the faith of Islam. The structure of Islam, with all its pillars, rests on a foundation of correct beliefs that are explicitly established from the Quran and Authentic Traditions of Prophet Muhammad sallallahu alayhi wa sallam. Without the foundation of correct Aqeedah, the actions and deeds of a person will not be of benefit to him. The beliefs and practices of a Muslim, must be in conformity with the Quraan and Sunnah in order to be worthy of acceptance by Allah. THE MEANING OF THE TERM AHLUS SUNNAH WAL JAMA'AH Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jama'ah literally translates as ‘the people of the way and the group’ and broadly refers to Muslim orthodoxy and consensus. The ‘way’ signifies that of the Prophet and the ‘group’ refers to his noble companions (Sahaabah radiyallahu anhum), and their successors (Taabi’een) and those after them represented by the main spectrum of Muslims in every age who followed in their footsteps. THE SAHABAH RADIYALLAHU ANHUM ARE THE YARDSTICK OF TRUTH AND THE FOUNDATION OF RELIGION Allah has classified the Imaan of the Sahaabah radiyallahu anhum to be the ideal. He made a similitude of their Imaan and encouraged the people to have Imaan in the same way as them. Allah says: فَاِنْ اٰمَنُوْا بِمِثْلِ مَآ اٰمَنْتُمْ بِهٖ فَقَدِ اهْتَدَوْاۚ If they have Iman just as you have Iman, then they are rightly guided. [Surah al Baqarah: Verse 137] This means that the Imaan and conviction of the Sahaabah radiyallahu anhum has been classified as the standard of truth for others to believe. It is obvious that their Imaan meets the Divine criterion, it is only then that it was made worthy of being the exemplar. Sayyiduna Abdullah ibn Amr radiyallahu anhu narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu alayhi wa sallam said: “The Jews split into seventy one or seventy two factions; and likewise the Christians. My Ummah will split into 73 factions. All of those factions will be in the Fire (of Jahannam) except one.” The companions asked: “Who are they, O Messenger of Allah?” The Prophet sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam replied: "Those that follow my way and that of my companions." [Sunan Tirmidhi: Hadith 2641] In this hadith, the standard of truth and falsehood has not only been classified to be the path of Rasulullah sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, but together with this, the path of the Sahabah of Rasulullah sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam has been classified to be the standard of truth. Rasulullah sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam has also explained that the path of his Sahaabah radiyallahu anhum is exactly his path and following them is a means of salvation. It is thus established that together with Rasulullah sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, the Sahaabah radiyallahu anhum are also the standard and yardstick of truth. Virtue and excellence in any action is attained through adherence to the commands of Allah Ta'ala and Sunnah of Rasulullah sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. Virtue and excellence in actions cannot be achieved based on our own desires and preferences. The imperative need to follow the Sahaabah of Rasulullah sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam in understanding the Sunnah can never be over emphasised. The Sahaabah radiyallahu anhum are the fundamental basis and foundations on which the superstructure of the Shariah has been raised. They represent the pivot upon which the wheel of Islam revolves. The Sahaabah radiyallahu anhum cannot be divorced from the Sunnah and vice versa. Without the reports, comments, interpretations and rulings of the Sahaabah radiyallahu anhum it is not possible to correctly understand the Qur'aan and the sacred utterances and practices of Rasulullah sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. THE NOBLEST AFTER THE AMBIYA The Sahabah radiyallahu anhum are the noblest after the Ambiya’ Alaihimus Salaam. Allah Ta'ala selected them to be in the company of the Prophet sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam. They were the best Companions for the best creation of Allah subhanahu wa ta ‘ala. Although they are diverse with regards to the time of their Islam and the duration of their closeness to Rasulullah sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam, Allah subhanahu wa ta ‘ala included them all when declaring His pleasure for them, praising them, and promising them Jannat. Allah subhanahu wa ta‘ala declares: وَالسَّابِقُوْنَ الْأَوَّلُوْنَ مِنَ الْمُهَاجِرِيْنَ وَالْأَنصَارِ وَالَّذِيْنَ اتَّبَعُوْهُمْ بِإِحْسَانٍ رَّضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُمْ وَرَضُوْا عَنْهُ وَأَعَدَّ لَهُمْ جَنَّاتٍ تَجْرِيْ تَحْتَهَا الْأَنْهَارُ خَالِدِيْنَ فِيْهَا أَبَدًا ذٰلِكَ الْفَوْزُ الْعَظِيْمُ And the first forerunners [in the faith] among the Muhajirin and the Ansar and those who followed them with good conduct – Allah is pleased with them and they are pleased with Him, and He has prepared for them gardens beneath which rivers flow, wherein they will abide forever. That is the great attainment. [Surah al Tawbah: Verse 100] وَمَا لَكُمْ أَلَّا تُنْفِقُوْا فِيْ سَبِيْلِ اللَّهِ وَلِلَّهِ مِيرَاثُ السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالْأَرْضِ لَا يَسْتَوِيْ مِنْكُم مَّنْ أَنفَقَ مِنْ قَبْلِ الْفَتْحِ وَقَاتَلَ أُولٰئِكَ أَعْظَمُ دَرَجَةً مِّنَ الَّذِيْنَ أَنْفَقُوْا مِنْ بَعْدُ وَقَاتَلُوْا وَكُلًّا وَّعَدَ اللَّهُ الْحُسْنىٰ وَاللَّهُ بِمَا تَعْمَلُوْنَ خَبِيْرٌ And why do you not spend in the cause of Allah while to Allah belongs the heritage of the heavens and the earth? Not equal among you are those who spent before the conquest [of Makkah] and fought [and those who did so after it]. Those are greater in degree than they who spent afterwards and fought. But to all Allah has promised the best [reward]. And Allah is well acquainted with what you do. [Surah al Hadid: verse 10] لَقَدْ رَضِىَ اللَّهُ عَنِ الْمُؤْمِنِيْنَ إِذْ يُبَايِعُوْنَكَ تَحْتَ الشَّجَرَةِ فَعَلِمَ مَا فِيْ قُلُوْبِهِمْ فَأَنْزَلَ السَّكِيْنَةَ عَلَيْهِمْ وَأَثَابَهُمْ فَتْحًا قَرِيْبًا Certainly Allah was pleased with the believers when they pledged allegiance to you, [O Muhammad], under the tree, and He knew what was in their hearts, so He sent down tranquillity upon them and rewarded them with an imminent conquest. [Surah al Fath: Verse 18] The Rasul of Allah sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam has emphatically addressed this matter in the Ahadith as well. عن عبد الله بن مغفل قال قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم الله الله في أصحابي لا تتخذوهم غرضا بعدي فمن أحبهم فبحبي أحبهم ومن أبغضهم فببغضي أبغضهم ومن آذاهم فقد آذاني ومن آذاني فقد آذى الله ومن آذى الله فيوشك أن يأخذه It has been reported by ‘Abdullah ibn Mughaffal radiyallahu ‘anhu: The Rasul of Allah sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam said, “Fear Allah when with regards to my Companions. Fear Allah when with regards to my Companions. Do not make them a target of abuse after me. He who loves them, loves them because he loves me. He who hates them, hates them because he hates me. He who harms them has harmed me, and he who harms me has offended Allah, and he who offends Allah, then it is very soon that Allah will take him to task.” [Sunan al Tirmidhi, #3862] Based on the aforementioned verses and ahadith (and many others not mentioned) the belief of the Muslims regarding the Companions of the Rasul of Allah sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallamis that they are the best of people after the Ambiya’. Holding them in high esteem is from the Daruriyyat of Deen (compulsory/core aspects of the Islamic faith). A person who holds a view contrary to this would not be considered a Muslim as his belief is in contrast to what is established directly from the Quraan, Sunnah and Ijmaa' (consensus) of the Ummah. May Allah guide us all to remain on the correct path. Aameen. Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Gaza - Testimony of Soldiers 17 years of blockade, of almost total control over who/what goes in/out of the Gaza Strip. 17 years of controlling Gaza's airspace, sea access, electricity. But none of that matters to the pro-occupation. As long as he can find a way to blame the Palestinians for basically everything.The right seems to think that the moment Israeli settlers were evacuated from the Gaza Strip in 2005, the occupation there ended. But this is a lie. The occupation of Gaza is as strong and all-encompassing as ever.Just ask the more than 2 million Gazans who are forced to live from one round of IDF aerial bombings to the next with almost no ability to rebuild their lives in between, since we're the ones who control what building materials, and how much, can be brought in to the Strip.Many Israelis don't know that very basic fact. But Gazans are fully aware of it.And so are the soldiers:"We use a great deal of violence against Gaza. During the rounds [of fighting] themselves, we use a lot of violence and sow destruction, and it’s part of the same strategy. Now, I see [those rounds of fighting] as having to 'mow the lawn' every few years, and in-between, Gazans have to be kept on a very short leash, not allowed too many exits and entries, not allowed to do many things we’d take for granted, like being able to fish wherever we feel like, or being able to fly. It's a prison." Breaking the Silence (@breakingthesilenceisrael) • Instagram photos and videos

Bombing Gaza & Israeli elections

Muharram FAQ’s – Part 4 Q. What does it mean to spend on one’s family on the day of Aashura? A. Spending on one’s family on the day of Aashura is general and applies to spending on one’s family in terms of food, clothing and gifts as well. Therefore, it would suffice for one to spend on his/her family on the day of Aashura by giving gifts, clothing or making a special meal for the family. (Shaami 6/430) Note: Spending on one’s family refers to one’s dependants and not on one’s entire family. Q. What is the time limit to spend on one’s family on the day of Aashura? Is it the Islamic day and night of the 10th of Muharram or is it the 9th, 10th or 10th, 11th or 9th, 10th and 11th days and nights of Muharram? A. The day of Aashura is the 10th of Muharram. The day of Aashura is not the 9th or 11th of Muharram. Yes, in keeping the fast of Aashura, a person should keep the fast of the 10th of Muharram together with a fast before or after it to avoid enacting the practice of the Jews who fasted on the 10th of Muharram only. However, in the case of spending on one’s family on the day of Aashura, the 9th or 11th is not included. As such, the Islamic day and night of the 10th of Muharram is taken into consideration. Therefore, if one wishes to spend on his/her family on the day of Aashura and earn its rewards of expansion in sustenance throughout the year, he/she may do so from the 10th evening (Maghrib time) until the Maghrib time of the following day. (Faydul Baari 3/372) Note: The 10th of Muharram begins at Maghrib time on Monday, 8th August 2022 and ends at Maghrib time on Tuesday, 9th August 2022 in South Africa. (The virtue of spending on one’s family on the day of Aashura is applicable between these times.) Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Gaza under attack! Eight Palestinians were killed, including a 5 years old child, and dozens were injured after targeting a residential building by an Israeli airstrike in #Gaza. 5.8.2022

Muharram FAQ’s – Part 3 Q. Is there a special reward for fasting on the 10th of Muharram? A. Yes. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam stated, “The fast of Ashura wipes out the sins of the previous year.” (Sahih Muslim) Q. How should the fast of the 10th of Muharram be kept? A. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam advised keeping an additional fast a day before or a day after the 10th as the Jews fasted on the 10th only. It was necessary that Muslims be distinct and apart from the practice of non-Muslims. Q. Is it okay to fast on the day of Ashura/10th of Muharram only? A. It is Mustahab (preferable) to keep the fast of Ashura in the following manner: 1- To fast on the 9th and 10th of Muharram together. 2- To fast on the 10th and 11th of Muharram together. 3- To fast on the 9th, 10th and 11th of Muharram all together. It is Makrooh (disliked) to keep fast on the 10th of Muharram (the day of Ashura) only. (Tabyeenul Haqaaiq 1/332) This is to distance oneself from enacting the practice of the Jews who fasted on the 10th of Muharram only. If a person, for a valid reason, is only able to fast on Ashura, then this will not be Makrooh.

Part 2 Q. Is the 10th of Muharram sanctified because of the Martyrdom of Sayyiduna Husain Radhiyallahu Anhu? A. The 10th of Muharram is not sanctified due to the martyrdom of Sayyiduna Husain Radhiyallahu Anhu. No doubt, the martyrdom of Sayyiduna Husain Radhiyallahu Anhu is one of the most heart-rending episodes of our history. Yet, the sanctity of the 10th of Muharram cannot be ascribed to the martyrdom of Sayyiduna Husain Radhiyallahu Anhu for the simple reason that the sanctity of the 10th of Muharram was established during the days of the Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam prior to the birth of Sayyiduna Husain Radhiyallahu Anhu. On the contrary, it is one of the merits of Sayyiduna Husain Radhiyallahu Anhu that his martyrdom took place on the 10th of Muharram. Q. Is there any basis in Islam to host ceremonies to lament over the Martyrdom of Sayyiduna Husain Radhiyallahu Anhu on the 10th of Muharram? A. The incident of the martyrdom of Sayyiduna Husain Radhiyallahu Anhu is one of the most tragic events of Islamic history. We remember the sacrifice of Sayyiduna Husain Radhiyallahu Anhu and the honoured family members of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam who were with him on the plains of Karbala and we draw strength and lesson from their courage. However, we do not engage in such acts that are contrary to the teachings of Rasulullah Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam.The people of Jaahiliyyah (ignorance) used to mourn over their deceased through loud lamentations, by tearing their clothes and by beating their cheeks and chests. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam forbade these practices saying: “He is not from us who slaps his cheeks, tears his clothes and cries in the manner of the people of Jahiliyyah." (Sahih Bukhari) Rather, Rasulullah Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam directed us to observe patience by saying “Innaa lillaahi wa innaa ilayhi raaji’oon” (To Allah we belong and to Him we will return) at the time of calamities. Shortly before his demise, Sayyiduna Husain Radhiyallahu Anhu, echoed the guidance of his beloved grandfather Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam and advised his sister Sayyidatuna Zainab Radhiyallahu Anha saying, “My dear sister, I swear upon you that if I die, you shall not tear your clothes, nor scratch your face, nor curse anyone, nor pray for your death”. (Al-Kamil, ibn Kathir vol. 4 pg. 24) Sayyiduna Husain Radhiyallahu Anhu displayed, even under the most difficult conditions, perfect emulation of the conduct of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam. It is thus fitting at the advent of the month of Muharram that we strive to achieve the same.

Testimonies of soldiers from the Civil Administration, Gaza DCL and COGAT 2011-2021 Read testimonies of ex-soldiers Bureaucratic Violence Rank: Lieutenant | Unit: Gaza DCL | Area: Gaza Strip | Location: Gaza DCL Base | Period: 2014 Q. When you were at Erez Crossing, did you have any doubts about what you were seeing? Back then, I don’t think I had any doubts. I was convinced I was on the humane side. I was happy that I, as a good soldier who wanted to help people, got to be in the place that gives the permits. Imagine your clerk at the bank, or an official from a government office, started yelling at you over something you asked for, it’s a terrible situation and over something very very basic. You don’t even go to the bank for your most basic need which is your freedom of movement, you go to the reception window because you have to, not because you want to. 28 Q. Was that your goal for serving in the DCL (see glossary) in the first place? I didn’t choose it, but yes, I was happy that I wasn’t in something combative. I didn’t want to be violent. Q. And do you see it differently today? Absolutely, yes. I think it might not look like the violence we’re used to hearing about, violence at the checkpoint, or soldiers abusing Palestinians. But it’s a different kind of violence. It’s bureaucratic violence. We use a great deal of violence against Gaza. During the rounds [of fighting] themselves, we use a lot of violence and sow destruction, and it’s part of the same strategy. Now, I see [those rounds of fighting] as having to 'mow the lawn' every few years, and in-between, Gazans have to be kept on a very short leash, not allowed too many exits and entries, not allowed to do many things we’d take for granted, like being able to fish wherever we feel like, or being able to fly. It's a prison PDF

Muharram FAQ’s – Part 1 Q. What is the meaning of Muharram? A. Muharram is the first month of the Islamic calendar - meaning “Forbidden”. Even before Islam, this month was always known as a sacred month in which un-lawful acts were “forbidden”, prominently the shedding of blood. Q. Which are the sacred Months of the Islamic calendar? A. There are four sanctified months of the Islamic calendar according to authentic Ahadith. They are the months of Zul-Qa’dah, Zul-Hijjah, Muharram and Rajab. The sanctity of these months were observed by all the previous Ambiyaa Alayhimus Salaam. Q. What are the common misconceptions regarding the 10th of Muharram? A. The following are some misconceptions, which are baseless: a) This is the day in which Adam Alayhis salaam was created. b) This is the day in which Ebrahim Alayhis salaam was born. c) This is the day in which Allah accepted the repentance of Adam Alayhis salaam. d) This is the day on which the Qiyaamah will take place. e) Whoever takes a bath on the 10th of Muharram will never get ill. f) To hold special prayers or offer sacrifice or visit the graves, specifically on the 10th of Muharram, thinking that there is special reward or meaning for doing so. All the above are untrue and are not substantiated from authentic Islamic sources. Q. Which is the most significant day in the Month of Muharram and why? A. The 10th of Muharram is the most significant day of the Month of Muharram which is also known as the day of Aashura. When Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam came to Madinah, he found the Jews fasting on Aashura. Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam enquired as to the reason for fasting to which they replied, “This is a blessed day. On this day, Allah saved Moosa Alayhis Salaam and drowned Fir’aun. Moosa Alayhis Salaam thereafter fasted on this day in gratitude to Allah.” Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam said, “I am closer to Moosa Alayhis Salaam than you.” He then fasted on that day and commanded the Muslims to fast as well. (Sahih Bukhari) Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

A modern-day guide about the Islamic rulings related to menstruation, lochia, and abnormal bleeding. Written by a Muslim woman for Muslim women. This intermediate guide is designed to be practical, engaging, and easy to read. Suitable for ages 17+. Inspirational content from verses of the Qurʾān and stories from the lives of the female Companions. Answers to the most popular questions that women ask. Relevant medical information. Core topics and their related rulings organized into structured chapters. Bullet point lists, tables, charts, and picture diagrams. Icons that direct and help the reader. Blurbs that highlight concepts to remember. Review questions at the end of each chapter. A glossary of terms for words that are unfamiliar to the reader. Based on the Hanafi madhhab. Available here

The Laws of Menstruation, Postnatal Bleeding, & Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding BASED ON THE ḤANAFī SCHOOL OF ISLAMIC LAW Ustadahah Rashida Esakjee & Mufti Abdur Rahman ibn Yusuf Mangera PDF

Flowers for Women by Daughter of Khalid A. Qureshi Translation edited by Mufti A. H. Elias Special-Laws-For-Females.pdf

Rulings related to Purity of a Woman in Istihaadhah

Am I obliged to wash away the istihada blood on my clothes before praying? muslimacoaching Question: Am I obliged to wash away the istihada blood on my clothes before praying? Answer: Bismi Llahir Rahmanir Rahim Assalamu alaykum wa rahmatuLlahi wa barakatuhu In the Hanafi madhhab, the excused amount of filth that is permitted to remain on a person’s clothes and body such that the prayer remains valid is: less than 5 grams in weight of solid filth, or less than 5 centimeters in diameter of liquid filth. If a person prays with the excused amount of filth on their clothes or body, it is slightly disliked (makruh tanzihi). Thus, it is recommended to remove the filth before praying – although the prayer will still be valid if it is not removed. If a person prays with more than this amount on their clothes or body – and they possess the means to remove it – then the prayer is not valid. This is the general ruling that applies to everyone. The Excused Person Exception There is an exception for someone who has the excused person status. The excused person status is a special status which permits ease in practicing specific rulings related to ritual purity. For more details about the excused person, click here. Thus, this ruling is in relation to the filth that exits from the excuse and it soils the excused person’s clothes. If it is believed that by the time the prayer that the excused person is praying finishes: No new filth would soil the clothing again; then YES, the existing filth must be removed and it is not permissible to pray with it before purifying the garment. More than the excused amount would soil the clothing again; then NO, the filth does not need to be removed and it is permissible to pray in the garment. For example, a woman established the excuse for abnormal vaginal bleeding (istihada). Her blood flow is very heavy and her underwear is soiled with blood. Based on her reasoned judgment, she believes that by the time she finishes making wudu and praying the prayer, more than 5 centimeters in diameter of blood will exit. In this situation, she is not obliged to purify the garment before praying. Otherwise, she must and it is not permissible to offer the prayer in it. Alternatively, she can change her clothing before praying if she has access to another clean garment.

Sexual Intimacy During Istihada menstrualmatters Although most women will experience irregular bleeding (istihada) at some point, it’s often confusing and leads to uncertainty in prayer, fasting and sexual intimacy. The paradox of carrying out an act of worship that requires purity, whilst experiencing vaginal bleeding can seem contradictory and even unnatural. Women often doubt whether their worship is valid and or whether it should be redone. Moreover, married women have the added concerns regarding sexual intimacy and what is permitted. Prolonged istihada that is not well-managed can have adverse effects on intimacy in one’s marriage. The confusion that istihada causes is quite normal. The Messenger of Allah (may Allah bless him and give him peace) described istihada as a ‘kick from Satan’ (Nasai: 221) because of the disorientation it causes in matters of religion, especially ritual purity and prayer. However, the confusion is avoidable. By simply learning a few basic principles of istihada and adhering to them, a woman can effectively ease doubts and continue her worship. Rulings Related to Istihada Istihada is irregular vaginal bleeding. It occurs outside of the parameters of what can be legally determined as menstruation (hayd) or post-natal bleeding (nifas). A woman experiencing istihada is not ritually impure. Therefore, she should continue fasting and praying. She is also permitted to touch and recite Qur’an, offer supererogatory (nafl) prayer, enter the masjid and perform tawaf of the Ka’ba. A woman experiencing istihada may fall into the category of an excused person (ma’dhur). This is if her bleeding is continuous, to the extent that she does not have enough time to perform the essential acts of ablution (wudu) and perform her obligatory (fard) prayer. If she determines this is the case, she is a ma’dhur and her wudu will remain for the duration of the entire prayer time, regardless of how much or how often she bleeds. Thereafter, if she bleeds even once during each subsequent prayer time, she will remain a ma’dhur. Whilst she is a ma’dhur, her wudu is only invalidated by the expiration of the prayer time or if she experiences another nullifier. If she determines that she does have enough time to make wudu and pray her obligatory prayer, she will not be classed as excused. Consequently, her wudu will be invalidated whenever she bleeds. Sexual intimacy is permitted during istihada. A woman experiencing istihada should attempt to stem the flow of blood and prevent it from exiting the vagina for the duration of the prayer. She can do this either by inserting something into her vagina, such as a moon cup, tampon, or kursuf that blocks the vaginal passage. If praying in a sitting position stops the blood from flowing, she is required to sit and pray. Sexual Intimacy in Istihada A woman may feel uneasy at the idea of sexual intercourse during istihada. Not only can it feel disconcerting, it also has hygiene implications. Couples may also experience a decrease in the inclination to engage in penetrative sex during istihada. To practically manage this situation, it is recommended that husbands first understand how their wives feel about the issue before initiating intercourse. A woman will better understand her body and the flow of blood; she will be better able to decide. Istihada is irregular bleeding that is usually indicative of a hormonal imbalance or underlying illness and as a result, can cause discomfort and weakness. A temporary break from sexual intercourse may allow her to regain her energy and recuperate. However, this shouldn’t dissuade a couple from other methods of intimacy, such as caressing, kissing, and even non-penetrative sexual intercourse. If istihada is a recurring issue, a couple may decide in the long-term that they will continue with intercourse, despite the bleeding, especially if the flow is light and sporadic. Either way, clear communication between a husband and wife, coupled with consideration for the emotional and physical needs of each other can prevent istihada from becoming a matter of contention and frustration. Rectal Bleeding If a woman experiences rectal bleeding it is recommended (mustahab) to abstain from sexual intercourse. This is because of the slight possibility that rectal bleeding may be confused with menstruation (hayd) due to the proximity of the orifices. Sexual intercourse in hayd is strongly prohibited in Islam and scholars have issued grave warnings for the one who considers it permissible or knowingly engages in it.

How do I pray with abnormal vaginal bleeding (istihada)? Muslimacoaching Question: How do I pray with abnormal vaginal bleeding (istihada)? Answer: Bismi Llahir Rahmanir Rahim Assalamu alaykum wa rahmatuLlahi wa barakatuhu A woman who is experiencing abnormal vaginal bleeding (istihada) is still required to pray with ablution (wudu). The blood is ruled as filthy (najas), and its presence on the body or clothes could impact the validity of a woman’s prayers if it exceeds the excused amount. Every woman’s istihada situation will be unique. Some women may see occasional spotting, while others may see a constant flow of blood. Thus, the rulings related to how a woman will pray are dependent upon: if blood continues to exit her vagina while she is making ablution (wudu) or praying the obligatory prayer; and if it is possible for her to stop the blood flow for this duration. Spotting Spotting in this context means that the bleeding is not a constant flow. Rather, the exiting of vaginal blood happens occasionally. A woman could see sporadic bleeding within the prayer time, or the day, or the month. Because the bleeding is light and not constant, a woman who sees spotting should be able to wipe away the blood, wash her front private part, make wudu, and pray the obligatory prayer of the time without any bleeding exiting. If this is the case – that she can successfully complete her wudu and pray the obligatory prayer without blood exiting – then what she has done is sufficient for her prayer to count. There is no need for her to resort to the excused person’s rulings (ma’dhur), make wudu for every prayer time, and the like. Every time she makes wudu, she keeps the status of ritual purity – unless blood exits her vagina or another wudu nullifier occurs. Thus, she is treated as a normal person with the rulings related to ritual purity and prayer. Constant Flow Constant flow is defined as not having the ability to make wudu and pray the obligatory prayer of the current time without vaginal blood exiting. If this is the case, then the rulings will differ for a virgin and non-virgin. Women who have never been married will always resort to the excused person’s rulings, providing that they fulfill the conditions for establishing the excuse. For details of how to establish the excuse and what are the excused person’s rulings, click here. Women who are non-virgins must first try to block the blood flow from exiting the vagina. This is wajib according to many scholars and it is the position of our teachers. There are certain women who may be exempt from this ruling, and their cases are mentioned later in this article. How To Block Blood Flow Any manageable action that can be taken to stop the blood flow for the prayer’s validity must be attempted. Past scholars wrote about women doing ‘hashu’ – stuffing – when they experienced istihada. In today’s times, this can easily be achieved with the use of tampons, moon cups, tissue, and the like. Based on her body and circumstance, a woman should choose what is feasible for her situation. The goal is to stop the blood from exiting in order to maintain ritual purity while she makes wudu and prays. She is only required to block for the duration of her wudu and prayer, and she is not obliged to keep anything inserted in her vagina for the entire day – unless she finds it easier. If she can successfully complete her wudu and obligatory prayer without bleeding exiting the vagina, then this is sufficient for her prayer to count. Every time she makes wudu, she keeps the status of ritual purity – unless blood exits her vagina or another wudu nullifier occurs. If bleeding exits while she makes wudu or prays, her wudu is nullified and the prayer is not valid. Additionally, any colored discharge that leaks down the string of a tampon nullifies wudu if the blood reaches the edge of the vaginal opening or beyond it. How-To: A non-virgin woman with istihada should first wash her front private part and dry herself. Then she inserts a tampon, moon cup, or the like to prevent the flow from exiting. There are different levels of absorbency for tampons, such as light, normal, and super. A woman should choose whatever works best for her situation. Choosing the right size will ensure better protection from leakage. It may be helpful to research tips of how to insert tampons or mooncups, as doing it the wrong way may cause unnecessary discomfort. For example, a tampon should be pushed towards the woman’s back because the vaginal canal is slanted, and it should not be pushed upward towards the sky. It helps to sit on a toilet or to squat when inserting. It is also best to insert a tampon while the vaginal canal is wet with blood and not dry. If despite taking the means to block, a woman’s flow is very heavy such that the bleeding cannot be stopped from exiting during her entire wudu and obligatory prayer, then she will resort to the excused person’s rulings. Exceptions To Blocking The following scenarios are examples of when a woman is not required to block her vaginal blood from exiting. Instead, she must resort to the excused person’s rulings for praying, providing that she meets all the conditions for establishing the excuse. 1) A virgin girl or woman. Some scholars believe that it is sinful for a virgin to insert anything inside of the vagina. This has nothing to do with breaking her virginity. The argument revolves around potentially and purposely inflicting harm upon her by breaking her hymen or causing unnecessary discomfort because she is not sexually active. Consequently, these women will automatically resort to the excused person’s rulings. 2) For a non-virgin, if blocking the blood flow is deemed harmful or causes undue hardship, then she will resort to the excused person’s rulings. Being ‘harmful’ or causing ‘undue hardship’ is determined through clear signs, past experience, or the opinion of an upright, expert Muslim doctor. For example, a pregnant woman who is experiencing vaginal bleeding. This blood is ruled as istihada and she must continue to pray. However, it is not normal to bleed during pregnancy, and a doctor will most likely advise her against inserting anything into her vagina for fear of harming the baby. 3) According to the laws of fasting, inserting an object into the vagina such that it completely disappears into the vagina would break the fast. As such, a non-virgin woman cannot insert a mooncup while she is fasting because the mooncup is inserted entirely into the vaginal canal and no part of it remains outside of the body. Similarly, inserting anything wet or lubricated into the vagina breaks the fast – even if the object does not completely disappear inside the vagina. Thus, a non-virgin woman experiencing istihada should dry her private parts properly and only insert dry materials to block the flow, while taking care to leave part of the object outside of the body. Tampons can be an option if she leaves the string hanging outside of the vaginal hole. If this is not possible, then she would use the excused person’s rulings during the fasting day and block from Maghrib to Fajr. Please note that it is vital for women to record the days and times that they see istihada, as it may impact several rulings related to their habit and worship. Check out our courses for more details about the general rulings of worship and menstruation. Jazak Allah khayran Naielah Ackbarali References: Imam ibn Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar Imam ibn Abidin, Manhal al-Waridin Imam Shurunbulali, Maraqi al-Falah Imam Tahtawi, Hashiyya al-Tahtawi © Muslima Coaching, All Rights Reserved.