ummtaalib

Question I’m searching for proof about women riding horses as I remember that my teacher used to tell me that its not allowed for women. Answer In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful Assalaamu `alaykum waRahmatullahi Wabarakatuh 1. The Fuqahaa (Jurists) have ruled that it will not be permissible for women to ride horses except at the time of necessity. It is reported from Rasulullah (sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) that: لعن الله الفروج على السروج “Allah Ta’ala has cursed women on saddles (horse backs)” (Note: The Ma’naa (meaning) of the above Hadith is established by the Fuqahaa, though there exists Idtiraab in the words - Radd Al-Muhtar, vol 6, pg 423, HM Sa’eed) It is proven that the Sahabiyyaat rode horses and camels. However, this was at the time of necessity. Therefore, if a necessity arises for a woman to ride a horse, the Darul Ifta will look into the matter. (Sharh Kitab Al-Siyar al-kabeer, vol 1, pg 97, Ilmiyya / Al-Muheet al-Burhani, vol 8, pg 100, Idara Al-Quran / Al-Bahr al-Raiq, vol 8, pg189, Rasheediyya / Al-Durr al-Mukhtar& Radd Al-Muhtar, vol 6, pg 423, HM Sa’eed / Hashiyya Al-Tahtawi ala al-Durr, vol 4, pg 210, Maktaba Arabiyya) And Allah knows best Wassalam Ml. Talha Desai, Student Darul Iftaa Checked and Approved by: Mufti Ebrahim Desai Darul Iftaa, Madrassah In'aamiyyah Source

The effect of the birth of Rasulullaah (SAW) on the world The incident of the people of the elephants happened only 50 days prior to the birth of Rasulullaah (SAW). Historians write that exactly at the time of the birth of Rasulullaah (SAW) the palace of the Persian Emperor was struck by a tremor that caused 14 pillars to collapse and the fire in his temple that was kept alight for a thousand years was instantly extinguished. This was like an announcement to the world that the personlality that would be talk of the world was born and that the darkness that Shirk had spread throughout the world was soon to be dispelled. The seed of Towheed and good character was to be planted in the world and would replace the Kufr and evil that was profound at the time. The final Nabi (SAW) was being prepared to guide not only a nation, but all of mankind until the Day of Qiyaamah. Madrasah in Just 5 Minutes - Mufti A.H.Elias

Glad tidings of the arrival of Rasulullaah sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam Every one of the Ambiyaa عليهم السلام who came before Rasulullaah (SAW) gave his people the glad tidings of the arrival of Rasulullaah(SAW). They also described Rasulullaah (SAW) to their people and took a pledge from them that they would follow Rasulullaah (SAW) when he does arrive. It is therefore noted that even after so many thousands of years and innumerable alterations, the present day Torah and Injeel still contain references to Rasulullaah (SAW), which even the scholars of these books admit. Allaah says, “Those who have been given the Book (the Jews and the Christians) recognise him (Rasulullaah (SAW) together with his lineage, tribe, place of birth, place of residence, appearance, qualities and attributes) just as they recognise their very own sons (because the Torah and the Injeel had described him to them). Without doubt there (still) exists among them a group who knowingly hide the truth”. [surah Baqarah, verse 146] Verse 6 of Surah Saff quotes the words of Hadhrat Isa (AS), who said to his people, “O children of Israa’eel! Indeed I am the Rasool of Allaah (who has been sent) to you, confirming the Torah before me and giving (you) the good news of a Rasool to come after me (among the Arabs), whose name will be Ahmad (referring to Rasulullaah (SAW)).”. Rasulullaah (SAW) said, “I am the manifestation of the du’aa of my father Ibraheem (AS) and I am also the glad tiding that Isa (AS) gave to his people.” [Dalaa’il 15] Madrasah in Just 5 Minutes - Mufti A.H.Elias

In the name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful, The worst-case scenario in the event of being inflicted with a disease is when the one involved refuses to believe that he has been inflicted with that disease. The way this phenomenon is accepted and recognised in diseases and illnesses that affect the physical body, it is also true with regards to spiritual diseases and ailments. When a person commits a sin (May Allah save us all) believing that a sin is being committed and feels regret and remorse in the heart, then this is far better than committing the sin and believing it to be lawful (halal). In the former situation, only one sin is being committed, and it is very likely that the individual may repent out of the remorse felt in the heart. In the latter case, however, in addition to the sin being committed, there is the greater sin of trying to justify it. Normally, such an individual does not receive the guidance to repent from his sin. (May Allah save us all, Ameen) Music and Singing The case with music and unlawful singing is the same. It has been decisively prohibited in Shariah, as the evidences mentioned further along will illustrate. Yet there are individuals who are not ready to believe that it is unlawful (haram). In the modern era, music has spread to such an extent that nobody is free from it. Individuals are confronted with situations where they are forced to listen to music. It is played nearly in all department stores and supermarkets. If you sit in a taxi, make a phone call or even walk down the street, you will not be saved from this evil. Young Muslims drive around in their cars with the music fully blasted. The increasing popularity of music, which is prevalent in our society, poses a great threat to the Muslims. Music is a direct ploy of the non-Muslims. One of the main causes for the decline of the Muslims is their involvement in useless entertainment. Today we see that Muslims are involved, and at the forefront perhaps, of many immoralities and evils. The spiritual power which once was the trait of a Muslim is nowhere to be seen. One of the main reasons for this is music and useless entertainment. Harms and effects of music We should be aware that nothing has been prohibited by the Almighty Creator except that which is harmful to the Muslims and the society as a whole. There are great harms and ill-effects of music. Islam totally forbids adultery and also those things that lead to it. Allah Most High says: “And do not (even) come near to adultery, for it is a shameful deed and an evil, opening the road (to other evils).” (al-Isra, 32) Islam does not only prohibit adultery and fornication, but also those things that may lead to it. This is the reason why the Qur’an orders Muslim men and women to lower their gazes. It prohibits one from being alone with someone of the opposite sex (khalwa). Informal interaction with the opposite sex has also been made unlawful. This is also one of the main reasons for the prohibition of music, as it effects one’s emotions, creates arousal, passion and excitement, and also leads to various physiological changes in the person. It is a psychological proven fact that two things are instrumental in arousing the human sexual desire, one being the voice of a female (for males) and the other music. This is the reason why Allah Most High says: “O wives of the prophet! You are not like other women, if you are god-fearing. So do not be soft in speech. Lest in whose heart is disease should be moved with desire.” (Surah al-Ahzab, v. 32) Thus, Islam forbids listening to the female voice with lust and desire. The great Hanafi Jurist, Imam Ibn Abidin (Allah have mercy on him) states: “It is permissible for women to converse with non-Mahram men at the time of need (and vice versa). However, what is not permissible is that they stretch, soften and raise their voice in a melodious way.” (Radd al-Muhtar, V.1, P. 406) Similarly, it is also unlawful for women to listen to the voice of non-Mahram men with lust and desire. One of the great western thinkers said: “The voice is one of the quickest ways that make a woman fall in love with a man. This is the reason why many women adore singers.” The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) was also wary of this fact when he said to the Companion Bara ibn Malik: “O Bara! Let not the women here your voice.” (Kanz al-Ummal, 7/322) The same has also been reported from the Companion Anjasha (Allah be pleased with him). Physical Effect of Music Experiments carried out by doctors and researchers confirm that music is such that it does not only affect the brain, but each and every organ of the body. There is a close relationship between music and bodily movements. It is also proved that music affects one’s emotions, increases arousal in terms of alertness and excitement and also leads to various psychological changes in the person. In a psychological experiment, it was found that listening to moderate type of music increased one’s normal heart beat, whilst listening to rock music the heart beat increased even further, yet people claim that music has no effect. In conclusion, music and the instruments used for singing are a cause for arousing the sexual desire of an individual. It could lead a person to adultery and fornication. Therefore, Islam takes the preventive measure rather than suffer the consequences. This is also one of the principles of Islamic Jurisprudence, namely ‘blocking the means’ (sadd al-dhara’i). This is based on the idea of preventing an evil before it actually materializes, and is taken from the heart of the guidance of the Qur’an and Sunnah that, “Preventing harm is given precedence even to achieving possible benefits.” Becoming Heedless of Allah One of the harms of music is that it distracts one from his Creator. It serves as a temporary means of pleasure and satisfaction, which makes one forget who he really is and why he was created. This is the reason why musical instruments are known in the Arabic language as ‘malaahi’ meaning instruments that prevent one from the remembrance of Allah Almighty. Human has been created for a noble purpose. Allah Most High says: “I have created jinn and humans only that they serve (worship) me.” (Surah al-Dhariyat, 56) Music and temporary entertainments sink the human in physical pleasures and prevent him/her from true spiritual gains. In conclusion, music has a great role to play in preventing a human from realising the purpose of creation. Un-Islamic Values Another harm of music is that it instils the ideologies of the non-Muslims in the heart and mind. The messages of today’s music follow a general theme of love, fornication, drugs and freedom. We find that the whole world is obsessed with the Kufr idea of unrestrained freedom, i.e. freedom of speech and movement, etc… This idea of freedom, “it’s my life, I’ll do what I want” is a predominant theme of music today. It is used as a means of drilling western ideologies into the hearts and minds, which are totally contrary to Islamic values and teachings. The Difference between Legal Wisdom and Legal Reason The above are just some of the harms and evil effects of music. One must remember here that these are the wisdoms for the prohibition of music and not the reason (illah). The Shariah ruling is based upon the reason, and not the wisdom. In other words if the harms for the prohibition of music are taken care of, it will not make music permissible. An example for this is that the wisdom behind the prohibition of wine and alcohol is that it creates enmity and hatred between people and it hinders one from the remembrance of Allah. The reason, however, is that it is an intoxicating substance. Now, if one was to say that wine will be Halal for me, as I will lock myself up after drinking wine, thus no destruction will be caused. Any sane person will conclude that he is wrong, as wine is Haram whether you cause any destruction and damage to others or not. The reason being is that the cause (illa) for the prohibition of wine is intoxication, regardless of whether the wisdom (hikma) is present or not. The same is with music. If one is saved from the abovementioned harms, even then music will still remain Haram. It can not be held lawful even if one is saved from its harms. This is a well established principle in the science of Usul al-Fiqh. Ruling on musical instruments and unlawful singing In light of the evidences that will be mentioned shortly, the following are unlawful in Shariah: a) Musical instruments that are exclusively designed for entertainment and dancing, and create charm, pleasure and bliss on their own (even without the singing), such as the drum, violin, guitar, fiddle, flute, lute, mandolin, harmonium, piano, string, etc are all impermissible and unlawful (haram) to use. There is a consensus of the whole Ummah on this. Since the first century, the Companions (sahaba), their followers (tabi’in), jurists (fuqaha) and the scholars have been generally unanimous on this ruling. b) Singing that is a cause for a sin is also unlawful with the consensus of all the scholars, such as songs that prevent one from the obligatory (fard & wajib). c) Any singing that is accompanied by other sins, such as songs that consist of unlawful, immoral, and sexual themes, or it is sang by non-Mahram women, etc will also be unlawful. This ruling is also with the consensus of all the scholars. Evidences There are numerous evidences in the Qur’an and Sunnah which support this view. We will attempt to look at a few: 1) Allah Most High says: “And there are among men, those that purchase idle tales, to mislead (men) from the path of Allah and throw ridicule. For such there will be a humiliating punishment.” (Surah Luqman, V. 6) The great Companion Sayyiduna Abd Allah ibn Mas’ud (Allah be pleased with him) states in the explanation of the word “idle tales”: “By Allah its meaning is music.” (Sunan al-Bayhaqi, 1/223 & authenticated by al-Hakim in his Mustadrak, 2/411) Imam Ibn Abi Shayba related with his own transmission that he (Ibn Mas’ud) said: “I swear by Him besides Whom there is no God that it refers to singing.” (132/5) The great Companion and exegete of the Qur’an, Sayyiduna Abd Allah ibn Abbas (Allah be pleased with him) states: “The meaning of the word is music, singing and the like.” (Sunan al-Bayhaqi, 1/221& Musannaf Ibn abi Shayba, 132/5) He also stated: “Music and the purchase of female singers.” (Musannaf Ibn Abi Shayba, 132/5) Hasan al-Basri (Allah be pleased with him) said: “This verse was revealed in relation to singing and musical instruments.” (Tafsir ibn Kathir, 3/442) The same explanation has also been narrated from Mujahid, Ikrima, Ibrahim Nakha’i, Mak’hul and others (may Allah be pleased with them all). The above verse of the Qur’an, along with the statements regarding its meaning is clear in the prohibition of music. It also serves as a severe warning for those who are involved in the trade of music in any way, shape or form, as Allah warned them of “Humiliating punishment”. As for those that say, the verse refers to things that prevent one from the remembrance of Allah and not music, they do not contradict the aforementioned explanation. The interpretation of the verse with “things that prevent one from the remembrance of Allah” is a more general interpretation which includes music and song, as one of the foremost things that stop you from the remembrance of Allah is music. This is the reason why the majority of the exegetes of the Qur’an have interpreted the verse with music only, or with all those acts that prevent one from the truth with music being at the forefront. 2) Allah Most High says whilst describing the attributes of the servants of the Most Compassionate (ibad al-Rahman): “Those who witness no falsehood, and if they pass by futility, they pass by it with honourable avoidance.” (Surah al-Furqan, V. 72) Imam Abu Bakr al-Jassas relates from Sayyiduna Imam Abu Hanifah (Allah be pleased with him) that the meaning of “falsehood (zur)” is music & song. (Ahkam al-Qur’an, 3/428) 3) Allah Most High said to Shaytan: “Lead to destruction those whom you can among them with your (seductive) voice.” (Surah al-Isra, V.64) One of the great exegete, Mujahid (Allah have mercy on him) interpreted the word “voice (sawt)” by music, singing, dancing and idle things. (Ruh al-Ma’ani, 15/111) Imam Suyuti (Allah have mercy on him) quoted Mujahid as saying: “Voice (in this verse) is singing and flute.” (al-Iklil fi istinbat al-tanzil, 1444) Another exegete, Dahhak (Allah have mercy on him) also interpreted the word “Sawt” with flutes. (Qurtubi, al-Jami` li Ahkam al-Qur’an, 10/288) Here also, a general interpretation can be given, as indeed some commentators of the Qur’an have done, but this, as mentioned earlier, does not contradict the meaning given by Mujahid and Dahhak, as it is included in the more broad and general meaning. Guidance of the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) The are many Ahadith of the blessed Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) which prohibit music and the usage of musical instruments to the extent that some scholars have gathered approximately forty Ahadith, of which the chain of transmission of some is authentic (sahih), some sound (hasan) and some weak (da’if). We will only mention a few here: 1) Sayyiduna Abu Malik al-Ash’ari (Allah be pleased with him) reports that he heard the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) say: “There will appear people in my Ummah, who will hold adultery, silk, alcohol and musical instruments to be lawful.” (Sahih al-Bukhari) 2) Abu Malik al-Ash’ari (Allah be pleased with him) narrates a similar type of Hadith, but a different wording. He reports that the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) said: “Soon there will be people from my Ummah who will consume alcohol, they will change its name (by regarding it permissible. m), on there heads will be instruments of music and singing. Allah will make the ground swallow them up, and turn them into monkeys and swine.” (Sahih Ibn Hibban & Sunan Ibn Majah, with a sound chain of narration) In the above two narrations, the word ma’azif is used. The scholars of the Arabic la nguage are unanimous on the fact that it refers to musical instruments. (Ibn Manzur, Lisan al-Arab, V.9, P.189) The prohibition of musical instruments is clear in these two narrations. The first Hadith (recorded in Sahih al-Bukhari) mentions that certain people from the Ummah of the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give peace) will try to justify the permissibility of using musical instruments, along with adultery, silk and alcohol, despite these things being unlawful (haram) in Shariah. Moreover, by mentioning music with the likes of adultery and alcohol just shows how severe the sin is. The one who attempts to permit music is similar to the one who permits alcohol or adultery. The second Hadith describes the fate of such people in that the ground will be ordered to swallow them and they will be turned into monkeys and swine (May Allah save us all). The warning is specific to those that will hold music, alcohol, silk and adultery to be permissible. It is something that should be of concern for those who try and justify any of these things. Also, to say that music will only be unlawful if it is in combination with alcohol, adultery and silk is incorrect. If this was the case, then why is it that the exception is only for music from the four things? The same could also be said for adultery, alcohol and silk. One may then even justify that alcohol and adultery is also permissible unless if they are consumed in combination with the other things! Thus, the above two narrations of the beloved of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) are clear proof on the impermissibility of music and songs. 3) Imran ibn Husain (Allah be pleased with him) reports that the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) said: “This Ummah will experience the swallowing up of some people by the earth, metamorphosis of some into animals, and being rained upon with stones”. A man from amongst the Muslims asked: “O Messenger of Allah! When will this be?” He said: “When female singers and musical instruments appear and alcohol will (commonly) be consumed.” (Recorded by Imam Tirmidhi, Imam Ibn Majah in their respective Sunan collections, and the wording here is of Sunan Tirmidhi) 4) Sayyiduna Ali ibn Talib (Allah be pleased with him) reports that the blessed Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) said: “When my Ummah begin doing fifteen things, they will be inflicted with tribulations, and (from those 15 things He said): “When female singers and musical instruments become common.” (Sunan Tirmidhi) 5) Na’fi reports that once Abd Allah ibn Umar (Allah be pleased with them both) heard the sound of a Sheppard’s flute. He put his fingers in his ears, turned his mule away from the road and said: “O Nafi’! Can you hear? I (Nafi’) replied with the affirmative. He carried on walking (with his fingers in his ears) until I said: “the sound has ceased” He removed his fingers from his ears, came back on to the road and said: “I saw the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) doing the same when he heard the flute of the Sheppard.” (Recorded by Imam Ahmad in his Musnad and Abu Dawud & Ibn Majah in their Sunans) 6) Sayyiduna Abd Allah ibn Umar (Allah be pleased with him) reports that the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) said: “Verily Allah has forbidden alcohol, gambling, drum and guitar, and every intoxicant is haram.” (Musnad Ahmad & Sunan Abu Dawud) 7) Abu Umama (Allah be pleased with him) reports that the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give peace) said: “Allah Mighty and Majestic sent me as a guidance and mercy to believers and commanded me to do away with musical instruments, flutes, strings, crucifixes, and the affairs of the pre-Islamic period of ignorance.”(Musnad Ahmad & Abu Dawud Tayalisi) 8) Sayyiduna Abd Allah ibn Mas’ud (Allah be pleased with him) reports that the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) said: “Song makes hypocrisy grow in the heart as water does herbage.” (Sunan al-Bayhaqi) 9) Sayyiduna Anas (Allah be pleased with him) reports that the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give peace) said: “On the day of Resurrection, Allah will pour molten lead into the ears of whoever sits listening to a songstress.” (Recorded by Ibn Asakir & Ibn al-Misri) 10) Sayyiduna Abu Huraira (Allah be pleased with him) reports that the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) said: “Bell is the flute of Shaytan.” (Sahih Muslim & Sunan Abu Dawud) There are many more narrations of the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give peace) in prohibition of musical instruments and unlawful singing. I have merely mentioned a few here as an example. The great Imam of the Shafi’i school, Imam Ibn Hajr al-Haytami gathered all these Ahadith which approximately total to forty in his excellent work ‘Kaff al-Ra’a an Muharramat al-Lahw wa al-Sama’, and then said: “All of this is explicit and compelling textual evidence that musical instruments of all types are unlawful.” (2/270) Statements of the Jurists (fuqaha) The great Hanafi jurist, Imam al-Kasani states: “If a singer gathers people around him only to entertain them with his voice, then he will not be considered an upright person (a’dil), even though if he does not consume alcohol, as he will be considered the leader of sinners. If however, he only sings to himself in order to eradicate loneliness, then there is nothing wrong in doing so. As far as the one who uses musical instruments is concerned, if the instruments themselves are not unlawful, such as the bamboo and tambourine, then there is nothing wrong with that and he will still be considered upright. However, if the instrument is unlawful, such as the lute and the like, then he will not be considered an upright person (to be a witness in the court. m), as these instruments can never be considered lawful.” (Bada’I al-Sana’i, 6/269) It is stated in Khulasat al-Fatawa: “Listening to the sound of musical instruments is unlawful (haram), as the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) said: “Listening to songs is a sin.” (4/345) Imam Ibn al-Humam, the great Hanafi Mujtahid makes a decisive statement in his famous Fath al-Qadir: “Unlawful (haram) singing is when the theme of the song consists of unlawful things, such as the description of a particular living person’s beauty and features, the virtues of wine that provoke wine-drinking, the details and particulars of family affairs or those songs that mock and ridicule others. However, songs that are free from such unlawful things and they consist of descriptions of the natural things, such as flowers and streams, etc… will be permissible. Yes, if they are accompanied by musical instruments, then it will be unlawful even if the song is full of advice and wisdom, not because of what the songs consist of, rather due to the musical instruments that are played with it. And it is stated in the al-Mugni of Ibn Qudamah (Hanbali Madhhab) that musical instruments are of two types: 1) Unlawful, Such as those that are specially designed for entertainment and singing, like the flute and mandolin, etc; 2) Lawful, like the playing of the tambourine (daff) at weddings and other happy occasions.” (See: Ibn Humam, Fath al-Qadir, 6/36) The same has more or less been mentioned in the other Hanafi works also, such as al-Ikhtiyar, al-Bahr al-Ra’iq, al-Fatawa al-Hindiyya and others. Imam an-Nawawi, the great Hadith and Shafi’i scholar states: “It is unlawful to use or listen to musical instruments, such as, those which the drinkers are known for, like the mandolin, lute, cymbals, and flute. It is permissible to play the tambourine (daff) at weddings, circumcisions and other times, even if it has bells on its sides. Beating the Kuba, a long drum with a narrow middle, is also unlawful.” (Mugni al-Muhtaj, 4/429, & Reliance of the traveller, 775) There are many other statements of the Fuqaha and scholars such al-Qurtubi, and in each of the four Madhhabs, but due to the length of the article, I will suffice with the above. As for those who hold music to be lawful usually present the Hadith of Sahih al-Bukhari in which two girls were singing in the presence of the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) and Sayyida A’isha (Allah be pleased with her). However, the permissibility of music can not be justified with this Hadith. The Hadith expert, Hafidh Ibn Hajr al-Asqalani has refuted this claim in length in his Fath al-Bari, 2/345). Firstly, these young girls were singing without any unlawful musical instruments and secondly, the content of the song was regarding war, thus perfectly lawful. Also, they were not professional singers as the words of the Hadith clearly indicate. Some try to justify music with the Hadith in which the permissibility of playing the tambourine (daff) is mentioned. However, as stated in the works of the Fuqaha, to play the tambourine is permissible at weddings, as it is not designed for sole entertainment and pleasure, rather for announcement, etc… Conclusion In the light of the above evidences from the Qur’an, sayings of our beloved Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give peace) and texts of the various Fuqaha, the following is the decisive ruling with regards to music: Musical instruments that are solely designed for entertainment are unlawful, with or without singing. However, to play the tambourine (daf) at weddings (and other occasions according to some fuqaha) will be permissible. As far as the songs are concerned, if they consist of anything that is unlawful or they prevent one from the obligatory duties, then they will be unlawful. However, if they are free from the abovementioned things (and they are not accompanied by instruments), then it will be permissible to sing them. And Allah knows best [Mufti] Muhammad ibn Adam Darul Iftaa Leicester , UK Source

Charlie Hebdo Attack – An Islamic Perspective Moulana Yusuf Patel (Secretary-General of the United Ulama Council of South Africa) All praise is due to Allah and may His choicest salutations continue to descend upon our Master and Leader Mohammed Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam. Respected Brothers and Sisters in Islam “O You who Believe! Let not some among you laugh at others; it may be that they are better than them, nor let some women laugh at other; it may be that they are better than them. Nor defame yourselves, nor be sarcastic to each other, nor call each other by offensive nicknames….” (Quran Surah 49, Verse 11) The deadly shootings at the offices of French satirical newspaper Charlie Hebdo have once again put the spotlight on Islam and Muslim. There are several theories behind the killings: 1. This was an Islamic State operation in response to the US led offensive against IS in Iraq. France has played a leading role and stands as one of the strongest ally of the US in its fight against the IS. 2. This was an Al Qaida backed attack which goes back to its 2013 fatwa of ‘wanted dead or alive for crimes against Islam’ against the editors of the newspaper. 3. This was a false flag operation carried out in the name of Islam and Muslims to set the stage for more draconian 9/11 type of laws to deal with perceived terrorist activity. Or it may be that Paris is being punished for its pro- Palestinian vote? One month ago the lower house voted to recognize Palestine as a state. The fact that Muslims have been blamed for the killings based on one person chanting the takbeer and another saying that the Prophet has been avenged is hardly evidence enough to lay the blame of the Muslims. 4. This is but a response to the growing marginalization of the Muslims in France. Muslims constitute approximately 6 million out of a total population of 61 million. 85% of France is Roman Catholic. Muslims make up just fewer than 10%. France has banned the hijab and has disallowed the building of minarets 60% of prison inmates in France are Muslim. Muslims live in ghetto like areas in abject poverty. Muslims have been continually humiliated in the press by the likes Charlie Hebdo. It is one of the most offensive, racist and malicious publication which makes its money by jeering, mocking, vilifying Islam and Muslims. It had published a naked caricature of Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam the publication has been deliberately provocative and challenging 1.6 billion Muslims. What is our response? 1. As Muslims we do not endorse, sanction or encourage extra judicial killings. We do not believe in kangaroo court justice. No individual should take the law into his hands. 2. We do not shed tears for the racist, hateful staff of Charlie Hebdo who took such pleasure in spitting at 1.6 billion Muslims. We do feel pity for them…pity that they chose to live a life of hate and die a death of hate. We pity them for being consumed and blinded by such racist aversion 3. The West has to re- interrogate its stubborn adherence to the principle of freedom of speech. Freedom of speech has legitimised slander, insults, vilification, rumour mongering and disgrace which is more consistent with the dark ages of indiscriminate brutality. 4. In Islam freedom of speech is underpinned by the protection of honour and dignity. Freedom of speech in not absolute! Every right comes with a corresponding responsibility. “O You who Believe! Let not some among you laugh at others; it may be that they are better than them, nor let some women laugh at other; it may be that they are better than them. Nor defame yourselves, nor be sarcastic to each other, nor call each other by offensive nicknames….” (Quran Surah 49, Verse 11) 5. The Quran describes Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam as a ‘mercy unto mankind’ Charlie Hebdo portrays him to be a monster and curse to mankind. Will we ever take up the cudgels to show how exactly Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam served as a mercy to mankind? “It is impossible for anyone who studies the life and character of the great Prophet of Arabia, who knows how he taught and how he lived, to feel anything but reverence for that mighty Prophet, one of the great messengers of the Supreme. And although in what I put to you I shall say many things which may be familiar to many, yet I myself feel whenever I re-read them, a new way of admiration, a new sense of reverence for that mighty Arabian teacher.” [Annie Besant, The Life and Teachings of Muhammad] Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians 223 Alpine Road, Overport, Durban

Abu Idris Al-Khaulani (May Allah had mercy upon him) reported: I once entered the Masjid in Damascus. I happened to catch sight of a young man who had bright teeth (i.e., he was always seen smiling). A number of people had gathered around him. When they differed over anything they would refer it to him and act upon his advice. I asked who he was and I was told that he was Mu`adh bin Jabal (May Allah be pleased with him) The next day I hastened to the Masjid, but found that he had arrived before me and was busy in performing Salah. I waited until he finished, and then went to him from the front, greeted him with Salam and said to him, "By Allah I love you.'' He asked, "For the sake of Allah?'' I replied, "Yes, for the sake of Allah". He again asked me, "Is it for Allah's sake?'' I replied, "Yes, it is for Allah's sake.'' Then he took hold of my cloak, drew me to himself and said, "Rejoice! I heard the Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alyhi Wa Sallam) saying, `Allah, the Exalted, says: My love is due to those who love one another for My sake, meet one another for My sake, visit one another for My sake and spend in charity for My sake". [Malik]

after a lot of research we have compiled as much information as we could on domestic abuse. We would appreciate feedback and /or advise / information we may have overlooked. We request readers to make du'a for acceptance of this effort and that it becomes a means of help for both, the victims and the perpetrators and where violence and fear are removed, replaced by love and peace.

Story of Husband Abuse ~~~ Back to Table of Contents

Stories Domestic Violence does exist in the Muslim Community Umm Junaid’s Story Factual Stories Karen & Bruce McAndless-Davis tell their story in their own words One Man’s Story of Being an Abuser ~~~ Back to Table of Contents

Resources Nour - Domestic Violence - Booklet.pdf Contents: What is domestic abuse? Statistics What are the warning signs of domestic abuse? Causes and detrimental affects of domestic abuse? Can an abuser change? Is domestic violence exclusive to women only? Why is the focus mainly on women? Do Muslim women have the right to ask for a divorce? Mufti Hussain Kamani on Anger first episode (uploaded December 29, 2014) More episodes HERE Islamic Solution for Domestic Violence Newcastle Central Mosque Domestic Violence an Islamic View | Q&A with Shaykh Suliman Ghani Take Responsibility By Hadhrat Moulana Abdul Hamid Is`haq Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum) Once a person acknowledges there is a problem, then that is half the battle won and half way to solving the problem...... ~~~ Back to Table of Contents

Towards Ending Violence in our Communities Towards Ending Violence in our Communities Be aware of the teachings of the Qur'an and Sunnah regarding any form of family abuse Let there be zero tolerance for abuse which means SPEAK OUT when witnessed! Education/training regarding domestic violence - at the level of both the individuals of the communities and the Imams/leaders of the community Financial support for Muslim shelters for women Families not turning a blind eye - lines of communication open and providing help and support for both the victim and the perpetrator Extended families to stop covering up abuse, violence, and incest in the name of "preserving the family honor." Avoid falling for the usual myths surrounding domestic violence - blaming victims etc. ~~~ Back to Table of Contents

Shariah Councils & Other Avenues of Help Available in Various Countries A Shari'ah Council is a committee of a few religious people that consists of at least one scholar of Islamic law in the absence of an Islamic Court (as in western countries). It provides legal rulings and advice to Muslims in accordance with Islamic Shari'ah based on the four Sunni schools of thought. Matters referred to the Council are deliberated by the members who thereafter deliver their verdict. A variety of disputes as well as family, marriage and divorce issues faced by the Muslim community are resolved. Shari'ah councils are not allowed to interfere in child access matters. In the case of divorce, where possible, councils mediate and try to save marriages. A Woman can seek a Dissolution of Marriage for a Valid Reason through a Shari'ah Council: General Procedure 1. When a woman approaches a Sharia council to obtain a divorce she is asked to complete an application form, provide an acceptable form of ID, together with a copy of her nikah contract. A fee is usually charged. 2. Meeting/Discussion on marriage breakdown 3. The Sharia council will send the husband up to three letters, requesting an immediate response. If the husband replies to the Sharia council's letter, a joint reconciliation meeting between the parties will be arranged, providing both parties agree. In the event that the respondent does not reply to any of the Sharia council's letters or the joint reconciliation meeting is unsuccessful, the next stage involves the parties presenting their case before the panel of arbitrators. 4. On the basis of the case presented to them, the arbitrators will decide whether the petitioner should be granted a Sharia divorce. Once the divorce is finalised the petitioner and respondent are issued with an Islamic divorce certificate. Shari'ah Councils: UK Dewsbury Darul Uloom London Fiqh Council Birmingham Marriage Counseling Rahmat-e-Alam Foundation 7045 N. Western Avenue, Chicago, IL 60645 Telephone: (773)764-8274 Fax: (773)764-8497. Help & Advice with Islamic ethos Nour Peaceful Families MentalHealth4Muslim - Mental Health Directory ~~~ Back to Table of Contents

WITNESSES Ponder on the Following Hadith Anas reported “The Messenger of Allaah said: 'Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or is oppressed.' A man asked: 'O Messenger of Allaah! I (know how to) help him when he is oppressed, but how can I help him when he is an oppressor?' He said: 'You can restrain him from committing oppression. That will be your help to him.'” [Al-Bukhaari & Muslim] In a Hadith Qudsi, Allah Almighty says: “I shall take revenge on the oppressor in this life and the next. I shall take revenge on someone who saw a person being oppressed and was able to help him but did not help him.” (Reported by Tabarani) How To Become A Means of Help To help the victim, we must help the abuser What to Say to a Friend Who is Abusive Responding to an Abuser How do I stop violence against women and children? How can I help a Victim? ~~~ Back to Table of Contents

PERPETRATORS - What To Do To Change It is important to face up to how your behaviour affects your partner and your children. The more you can understand what your behaviour is like for your partner, the harder it will be to behave badly towards your partner in future. Help IS available.... ~~~ Back to Table of Contents

PERPETRATORS - Stop & Think! 'Sometimes when we argue I shout at her. She is scared of me' 'I slapped her once and I promised myself it would never happen - but it did...' 'I get angry with her and I totally lose it...' Do you recognise yourself in any of this? Do you ever wonder at the aftermath of your actions? Are you concerned that your behaviour towards your partner is costing you your relationship? Are you worried your children are witnessing too many arguments and what effects your behaviour will have on them? Waiting for Father to die... Dear Daddy... Reflect on the following... Narrated Abu Ma'bad, that the Prophet said, “… and be afraid of the supplication of an oppressed person because there is no screen between his invocation and Allah.” Sahih Bukhari: Volume 2, Book 24, Number 573. Abu Dharr reported: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said: Allah, the Exalted and Glorious, said, “O my servants, I have forbidden oppression for myself and I have made it forbidden among you, so do not oppress one another.....(part of Hadith Qudsi) Jabir Ibn `Abdullah, may Allah be pleased with him, quoted the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, as saying: “Be on your guard against committing oppression, for oppression is a darkness on the Day of Resurrection...” ( Reported by Muslim) In a Hadith Qudsi, Allah Almighty says: “I shall take revenge on the oppressor in this life and the next. I shall take revenge on someone who saw a person being oppressed and was able to help him but did not help him.” (Reported by Tabarani) The Prophet of Allaah said: "There are three persons whose supplications are never rejected: The just leader, the fasting person when he breaks his fast, and the oppressed when he supplicates and whose supplication is raised above the clouds and the gates of heaven are opened for it, and (to whom) Allaah will say: 'By My Glory! I shall assist you, even if it is after a while.'" [At-Tirmithi] Abu Hurayrah reported: “The Messenger of Allaah said: "Do you know who is the bankrupt one?'' The people said: 'The bankrupt among us is the one who has neither money nor property.' He said: “The real bankrupt one of my nation would be he who would come on the Day of Resurrection having (performed) prayers, (observed) fasting and (spent in) charity, (but he will find himself bankrupt on that Day due to depleting these good deeds) because he despised others, uttered slanderous terms against others, unlawfully devoured the wealth of others, shed the blood of others, and beat others. Therefore his good deeds would be credited to the account of those (who suffered at his hand). If his good deeds are exhausted, their sins (i.e., those he oppressed) will be entered in his account and he will be thrown into the (Hell) Fire.” [Muslim] Say: O My slaves who have been prodigal to their own hurt! Despair not of the mercy of Allah, Who forgiveth all sins. Lo! He is the Forgiving, the Merciful. [Qur'an39:53] O ye who believe! Turn unto Allah in sincere repentance! It may be that your Lord will remit from you your evil deeds and bring you into Gardens underneath which rivers flow, on the day when Allah will not abase the Prophet and those who believe with him. Their light will run before them and on their right hands; they will say: Our Lord! Perfect our light for us, and forgive us! Lo! Thou art Able to do all things. [Qur'an 66:8] ~~~ Back to Table of Contents

VICTIMS You are not alone! You do not have to suffer in silence! Help is available! REFER TO BENEFICIAL ADVICE IN THIS POST ~~~ Back to Table of Contents

Beneficial Advice from Scholars to Questions on Domestic Abuse FOR THE VICTIM: Some Important Points to Consider for a Possible Solution How Does a Child Deal With Parents Who Fight Each Other? ~~~ Back to Table of Contents

Scholars' Condemnation of Domestic Abuse ~~~ Back to Table of Contents

Clear Instructions in the Qur'an in case of Conflict Contrary to the misconception that the Qur'an encourages "wife beating", clear instructions have been mentioned in verse 34 of Suratun Nisaa on the steps to be taken by the husband in a conflict where the the wife is rebellious and at fault. As for the "beating", ~~~ Back to Table of Contents

The Islamic Solution Kind treatment towards others is a sign of piety While domestic violence exists in both Muslim and non-Muslim societies, the position of Islam on the kind treatment of women is very clear as mentioned in the Noble Qur’an and exemplified through the life and character of Nabi Muhammad (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). Allah says in the Noble Qur’an: إِنَّ أَكْرَمَكُمْ عِندَ اللَّهِ أَتْقَاكُمْ “The nobler among you in the sight of Allah is the more righteous among you.” (49:13) Abu Hurayrah (radhiyallahu anhu) stated: Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, “The most perfect of believers in belief is the best of them in character. The best of you are those who are the best to their women.” (Tirmidhi) In can be understood from these narrations that a husband’s treatment of his wife reflects a Muslim’s good character, which in turn is a reflection of his faith. The character of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) exemplified how one should be good to his wife. He should smile at her, not hurt her emotionally or physically, remove anything that will harm her, treat her gently and be patient with her. He should communicate effectively with her, involve her in decision making and support her in times of difficultly. Allah instructs men to be kind to their wives and to treat them well to the best of their ability. A devout Muslim should always remember that bring joy to one’s spouse is part of faith and earns the pleasure of Allah, whilst dealing with her unjustly will earn the anger of Allah. Allah says in the Noble Qur’an: وَ عَاشِرُوهُنَّ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ فَإِن كَرِهْتُمُوهُنَّ فَعَسَى أَن تَكْرَهُواْ شَيْئًا وَ يَجْعَلَ اللّهُ فِيهِ خَيْرًا كَثِيرًا “Live with them in kindness; even if you dislike them, perhaps you dislike something in which Allah has placed much good.” (4:19) Abu Hurayrah (radhiyallahu anhu) reported that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, “A believing man should not hate a believing woman. If he dislikes something in her character, he should be pleased with some other or another trait of hers.” (Muslim) For any relationship to prosper, each party should focus on the positive character traits of the other. Being over-concerned with negative character traits and weakness engenders hatred, discord and even violence at times. A positive attitude is essential. For example, a husband may appreciate the way his wife arranges his clean laundry, but the underlying character trait may be that she is thoughtful. Following this advice should help the husband focus and be more aware of his wife’s good attributes rather than the negatives. A companion once asked Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), “What is the right of a wife over her husband?” He said, “That you feed her when you eat and clothe her when you clothe yourself and do not strike her face. Do not malign her and do not keep apart from her, except in the house.” (Abu Dawood) Conflict in marriage is unavoidable at times and, unless one is conscious of the Allah, it can lead to a lot of anger. Although anger is one of the most difficult emotions to manage, the first step towards controlling it can be learning how to forgive those who hurt us. Under no circumstance, even when he is angry or somehow feels justified, is a husband allowed to humiliate her by using hurtful words or cause her any injury. Children are the weak and vulnerable segment of society. They are in need of not only physical nurturing, but emotional as well as spiritual nourishment. The advice of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) is clear in providing guidelines regarding to the kindness and affection they deserve to be shown. Hereunder are a few examples: * Abu Shurayh Khuwaylid ibn ‘Amr al-Khuza‘i (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, “Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, “O Allah! I consider it a wrong action that the rights of two weak ones be violated: orphans and women.” (Nasa‘i) * The grandfather of ‘Amr ibn Shu‘ayb (radhiyallahu anhu) said: Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, “'Anyone who does not show mercy to our young people nor honour our old people is not one of us.” (Abu Dawud and Tirmidhi) * Abu Hurayrah (radhiyallahu anhu) said, “Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) kissed al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali (radhiyallahu anhu). Al-Aqra’ ibn Habis (radhiyallahu anhu) said, “I have ten children and I have not kissed any of them.” Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, “Someone who does not show mercy will not be shown mercy.” (Bukhari and Muslim) * Abu Hurayrah (radhiyallahu anhu) relates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, “He who works hard (to fulfil the needs) of widows and the indigent is like a warrior in the Path of Allah.” The narrator thought that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) also said, “and he is like the person who stands in prayer without tiring, and like one fasts and does not break his fast.” (Bukhari and Muslim) * Anas (radhiyallahu anhu) relates that Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said, “One who brings two girls from their childhood until their maturity will appear on the Day of Resurrection in close proximity to me like the two fingers of a hand,” and Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) joined his two fingers.” (Muslim) * Abu Darda (radhiyallahu anhu) relates that he heard Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) saying, “Look for my pleasure among the weak ones, for you are assisted (against your enemies) and provided for with sustenance on account of the weak ones among you.” (Abu Dawud) How do I stop violence against women and children? 1. Decide today NOT to look away, NOT to be a bystander and NOT to be silent. 2. If you are emotionally, physically, or sexually abusive to your partner and/or to your children, seek urgent help. 3. Provide support to women and children who you suspect are being abused. 4. If you witness violence and abuse, report it to the nearest police station as soon as possible. 5. Try to understand how your own attitudes and actions might perpetuate abuse against women or children. 6. Learn about the services in your community that provide assistance to women and children who experience violence and abuse. 7. If a relative, neighbour, friend or colleague is abusive to his wife and children, try to talk to him about it and urge him to seek help. 8. If a woman has been raped, help her to access health services quickly and to test for HIV. Conclusion The statistics on domestic violence are alarming. The problem exists in both Muslim and non-Muslim societies. The worship of Allah, which Muslims believe is the sole reason for their existence, is an all-encompassing concept that applies equally to one’s relationship with Allah as well as with His creation. It really begs a question of the humanity and consciousness for a person to stoop so low to make the target of abuse the young and sometimes weak – those who are the flowers of our society, the joy of the heart and embodiment of affection. In Islam, a person cannot perfect his/her relationship with Allah, unless they perfect their relationship with others. The kind treatment of others, including one’s spouse, can therefore not be ignored as an obligatory act of worship and a sign of piety. Islam teaches the individual to constantly consider which deeds and behaviours will be pleasing to Allah and to interact with others in way that will be pleasing to Him. It is through attaining a higher level of Allah-consciousness that Islamic principles can contribute to the elevation of society. As a believer sincerely contemplates on how his deeds will be viewed by Allah, he learns to improve his conduct with others, including his spouse. Prepared by: Jamiatul Ulama South Africa (Source) ~~~ Back to Table of Contents

Islamic Position and Advice on Verbal Abuse in Marriage Sticks and Stones May Break my Bones but Words will never Hurt Me…. “My husband thinks I am stupid. He thinks I can never learn Arabic because I don’t have the brains to.” A sister said while she was seeking advice about her marital discords. She has been married for more than 10 years and has been verbally abused throughout her marital life. When I first met her, she appeared very unconfident and insecure. I was not sure if she had always been like that or if the marital verbal abuse had turned her into a self-doubting, vulnerable person. According to her, her husband puts her down and calls her all sorts of names even in front of the children. He constantly undermines her abilities and compares her with other “accomplished” women. He is very judgmental and I realized that she has no more self-esteem left in her. She described her husband as someone who loves to criticize her, calls her all kinds of degrading names, even in the presence of their children. He undermines her abilities and compares her with other“accomplished” women. It seems like that he had been very judgmental throughout their marital life and perhaps that is the reason why she has no more self-esteem left in her. Unfortunately, this is not the case with just one family, rather verbal abuse in marital relationships has been a major problem in the Muslim communities. Perhaps it is phrases like, ‘sticks and stones may break my bones but words will never hurt me,’ that is not only inherently wrong but has encouraged verbal abuse and underestimated its evil affects on the abused. The truth of the matter is that verbal abuse hurt as badly if not more than the physical abuse. Confusion about Verbal Abuse vs. Physical Abuse: Those men and women who have not been physically abused by their wives and husbands but are verbally abused on a daily basis remain confused whether or not they are in a damaging relationship. Unlike physical abuse, verbal abuse is difficult to identify. Once a person has been hit, it is a physical abuse. There is no need to be confused because the bruises are visible. On the other hand, verbal abuse is more dangerous because there is no “apparent” damage. Yet, it causes internal destruction, leaves invisible scars, wounded spirit and low self-esteem. Verbal abuse can be done by either spouse. In some cases, the perpetrator is the wife who not only verbally abuses her husband but drags his whole family along the way. Islam recognizes the evil of verbal abuse and perhaps that’s why there is so much emphasis on guarding one’s tongue and keeping others secured from its invisible harm. The Messenger of Allāh, ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi wa sallam, said, “A true believer is not involved in taunting, or frequently cursing (others) or in indecency or abusing.”’ (al-Tirmidhi) If this is the right of a regular Muslim, then how much more so a wife or husband is entitled to be safe from verbal abuse and taunting. In another narration, the Prophet of Allāh said: “…Cursing a believer is like murdering him.” (Al-Bukhāri and Muslim) SubḥānAllāh, how true are the words of the Prophet ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi wa sallam who thoroughly acknowledge that, in fact, harsh tongue and cursing is as painful and harmful as murdering someone. Hence, those husbands who are duped into thinking that they are free from being abusive because they have never raised their hands on their wives, yet, frequently curse or use abusive/foul language should take heed in the words of the Prophet ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi wa sallam. And so should the wives who have been using harsh tongue against their husbands. Break the Cycle: If you are in a verbally abusive relationship, then change your situation. Remember YOU have to break the pattern. The first step is to acknowledge your spouse’s verbal abuse. Ask yourself the following questions: ●Do you feel like you have to walk on eggshells around your partner? ●Do you feel threatened, humiliated, helpless or depressed? ●Do you feel as though you cannot do anything right? ●Does your spouse belittle you? ●Does your partner have complete control over your bank accounts? ●Does your spouse ignore or disregard your achievements? ●Does your partner blame you for all of your marriage problems? Oppression must not be encouraged whether physical or verbal. Find the courage to change your situation. ●Communicate with your spouse. You should not be intimidated to talk to your spouse. ●Set Limits: be specific what you can tolerate and what you cannot. ●Seek help: your spouse must not have any problem should you get a third party involved to seek help ●See a therapist: be careful who you chose for therapy ●See a Religious Counselor: If you speak with a shaykh, make sure he has enough time to listen to your problem thoroughly. Do not catch the shaykh during the prayer breaks for 10-15 minutes. Make an appointment. Make sure the shaykh spends enough time to listen to your complain and your spouse’s and give step by step advice to both of you. Make a follow up appointment to ensure the benefits of his advice. A “Henpecked” Husband In some cultures, eastern and western, a kind and affectionate husband is considered “henpecked” by family and friends. Consequently, to prove otherwise husbands may resort to verbal harshness in public or even in private. Let them be reminded, that in the eyes of Allāh ‘azzawajal, the Ultimate Judge, their strength as husbands is not shown in how much verbally they can abuse their wives, rather: “The strong man is not one who wrestles well but the strong man is one who controls himself when he is in a fit of rage.” And the excellence of a man has been described in his good manners and in his control over his tongue. And the excellence of a man has been described in his good manners and in his control over his tongue. Abu Musa Al-Ash`ari (ra) reported: I asked the Messenger of Allāh, ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi wa sallam: “Who is the most excellent among the Muslims?” He said, “One from whose tongue and hands the other Muslims are secure.” (Al-Bukhāri and Muslim) This right is exceedingly due upon the wives. If a wife is not secured form her husband’s tongue then it merely shows the weakness, cowardliness and lowliness of a man’s character not his strength Woman’s Harsh Tongue: Sisters remember the story of the two women, one prayed and fasted and performed extra acts of worship yet she was known to be very harsh with her tongue towards others. The other women performed her obligatory acts of worship but she was very polite to towards others and didn’t hurt anyone with her tongue. The first one was from the women of hellfire and the second was from the people of Jannah. If this is the case in dealing with others, just imagine what will happen if a wife, consistently, uses harsh tongue towards her husband, who has most rights over her politeness, respect and kind treatment. وقولوا قولاً سديداً Allāh ‘azzawajal says (which means): O you who have believed, fear Allāh and speak words of appropriate justice قولا سديدا . He will [then] amend for you your deeds and forgive you your sins… (Sūrat’l-Aḥzāb:71) In this verse قولا سديدا has a very profound meaning. It doesn’t merely mean just speech rather these are the words through which a person connects with the world around him/her. A spouse is the one a person most frequently interacts with hence the one most entitled to قولا سديدا . It doesn’t merely mean just speech rather these are the words through which a person connects with the world around him/her. A spouse is the one a person most frequently interacts with hence the one most entitled to قولا سديدا. These words (everyday speech) are from the characteristics that separate a person from the other creatures and these words are the means by which a person makes himself/herself either from the people of Hell or people of Jannah.[ii] Lastly, those brothers and sisters who are in emotionally abusive relationship must realize that verbal abuse is often worse than physical abuse. Words hurt and can be more harmful than physical pain. Also, patience through verbal abuse (though will be rewarded by Allāh’azzawajal inshā’Allāh) can and will have damaging effects on the children. Not only at the time when they are growing up but on how it shapes their personality and what type of spouses would they turn out to be in future. Mostly, sons will follow their father’s footsteps and daughters will follow their mother’s. Hence, be cautious of what you are putting your children through and take a stand for yourself and for your children. The Jamiat ~~~ Back to Table of Contents

What does Islam say regarding Domestic Abuse? Does it Propagate Mutual Love and Kindness in a Marriage or Violence? On the occasion of Hajjatul-Wida (The Farewell Hajj) The Prophet among other advices said with regard to women; "0 People! fear Allah with regard to your wives. You have taken them into your possession with the permission of Allah." "A believer must not hate a believing woman (i.e., his wife); if he dislikes one of her traits he will be pleased with another." (Muslim) NO to Domestic Violence in Islam | Mufti Hussain Kamani | The Prophet said: "Among the Muslims the most perfect, as regards his faith, is the one whose character is excellent, and the best among you are those who treat their wives well." - Al-Tirmidhi Hadith 628 | Narrated by Abu Hurayrah Sadly, the curse of domestic violence plagues Muslim and Non-Muslim communities all over the globe. In this segment, Mufti Hussain Kamani reminds the listener as to why any form of domestic violence (Physical, emotional or Mental abuse) is forbidden in prohibited in Islam. Thousands of women are killed each year all over the world including the US and sadly for far too long this issue has been pushed under the rugs. This practice goes against the Sunnah of Prophet as he never abused his wives and instructed his companions to be among those who stand up against injustice and oppression. It is high time that we as take the lead in insuring that Domestic violence is not just reduced but completed eradicated from our communities. Source ~~~ Back to Table of Contents

Seven Important and Precious Advices regarding Recent Events by Shaykh-ul-Hadith, Shaykh Mawlānā Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullah During these critical times, the Muslims should observe the following: 1. With love and reverence, carefully study the beautiful life of our beloved Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam from authentic reliable sources. 2. Frequently make mention of this beautiful life to both Muslims and non-Muslims alike. 3. Distribute leaflets and booklets which cover aspects of this great life far and wide. 4. Give place to his illuminating teachings in your daily life so that others can appreciate the greatness of his exemplary conduct. 5. Send salutations and greetings upon him in abundance. 6. Supplicate to Allāh ta‘ālā, beseeching Him to pardon our sins and to grant us assistance and protection from all evil. 7. Exercise patience and remain within the boundary set by our beloved Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam. They can be downloaded as PDF in English, French, Spanish, Arabic & Urdu. Please read, practise & share.