ummtaalib

Jazaakillah sis for posting this. Many people cannot recite du'a qunoot in the witr prayers however effort must be made inshaAllah Dua-e-Qunoot (Arabic/English) Transliteration of Dua-e-Qunoot: Allah humma innaa nasta-'eenoka wa nastaghfiruka wa nu'minu bika wa natawakkalu 'alaika wa nuthni [alaikal khair, wa nashkuruka walaa nakfuruka wa nakhla-oo wa natruku may yafjuruka, Allah humma iyyaaka na'budu wa laka nusalli wa nasjudu wa ilaika nas aa wa nahfidhu wa narju rahma taka wa nakhshaa 'adhaaabaka innaa adhaabaka bil kuffari mulhiq Translation of Dua-e-Qunoot: "O' Allah! We implore You for help and beg forgiveness of You and believe in You and rely on You and extol You and we are thankful to You and are not ungrateful to You and we alienate and forsake those who disobey You. O' Allah! You alone do we worship and for You do we pray and prostrate and we betake to please You and present ourselves for the service in Your cause and we hope for Your mercy and fear Your chastisement. Undoubtedly, Your torment is going to overtake infidels"O' Allah! Dua-e-Qunoot is recited in the third rakat of Witr (Witar) Salaah after Isha Prayer

Istikhara It is narrated from Hazrat Jaabir (Radhiyallaho anho ) that Rasulullah (Sallallaho Alaihe Wasallam) used to teach us the dua of istikharah for important matters in the same manner as he used to teach us the Surahs of the Qur’aan. He (Sallallaho Alaihe Wasallam) used to say, ”When you intend doing any important work, then read two rakaats nafl salaat and thereafter read this dua.” (which is mentioned below) (Bukhariıpg. 944) Rasulullah (Sallallaho Alaihe Wasallam ) once remarked to Anas (Radhiyallaho anho) “O Anas! When you are undecided with regards to any matter,then seek counsel from your Rabb and do this seven times. Thereafter, whatever decision prevails in your heart regard it to be beneficial.” (Shaami Vol.1,pg. 507) Note: It is not necessary that one sees a dream or hears a voice. Asking another person to make Istikhaarah on one’s behalf is not substantiated from any hadith. To make Mashwarah (consultation) with someone else is Sunnah. It has been mentioned in the hadith that whomsoever makes Mashwarah will never regret and whomsoever makes Istikhaarah will never be unsuccessful. Salatu Haajah It is reported from Abdullah bin Abi Aufa (Radhiyallaho anho ) that Rasulullah (Sallallaho Alaihe Wasallam ) is reported to have said that whomsoever has any need from Allah Ta’ala or any person then he should make wudhu thoroughly. Thereafter he should perform two rakaats of salaah, recite praises on Allah Ta’ala and recite a durood sharief. Then he should recite this dua: (Tirmidhi‐Vol.1,pg.108 Shaami‐Vol.1) Hajat_Istikhaara.pdf *Note: the Du'a of Istikhara and Haajah are in the pdf above

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Tell me One Thing and I will tell you Ten Things Once someone told Ahnaf ibn Qais (Rahmatullahi Alaihi): ان قلت لي كلمة اسمعتك عشراً فقال الاحنف لكنك لو قلت لي عشراً لم تسمع مني واحدةً “If you dare tell me one derogatory word, be prepared to hear ten words from me. In response to this, he (Ahnaf ibn Qais Rahmatullahi Alaihi) replied: “(Be it as it may), however if you wish to tell me ten derogatory words, be rest assured of not hearing even one from me.” A similar incident has been related about Moulana Jalaaluddeen Rumi (Rahmatullahi Alaihi) in the books of history. On one occasion two men were caught up in an argument in the middle of a road. Whilst exchanging vulgar words, one said to the other: “O cursed one! If you are dare tell me one derogatory word, I will make you hear ten words.” Coincidentally Moulana Jalaaluddeen Rumi (Rahmatullahi Alaihi) passed by in that direction and said: “Brother, leave him alone. Whatever you wish to say, please say it to me. Even if you have to tell me a thousand things, you will not even hear one from me in response. After hearing this statement from Moulana, both these men caught hold of the feet of Moulana and reconciled among themselves. (Jawaahir Paare) Ihyaaud Deen

A Saalik or a person setting out in search of Allah Ta’ala; in the gaining of His Ma’rifat (Recognition), His Love and the love of His Beloved Nabi, Sayyidina Muhammad (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) must not only be an Aashiq or lover of ‘sweets’ (i.e. of pleasing conditions), but must be prepared to take bitter medicine also, with a willing heart, as proof of his or her Love for Allah Ta’ala. Pain in the body, poverty in the home, other problems outside or in the family should not affect the tranquility of the heart. The heart must remain ‘Saabir’ (patient) under adverse conditions and ‘Shaakir’ (grateful) over pleasing conditions.

Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat (Hafizahullah) gave talks at two Khatme Qur'an gatherings (Completion of the memorisation of the Qur'an by students) in London this weekend. The following was his message. Our respected Shaykh said we should RECITE, UNDERSTAND and PRACTICE the Qur'an and this will guarantee us entry into Jannah and Allah's pleasure....and honour in this world, in the grave and the Hereafter. If we individually do this we will individually attain this honour and if we collectively, as an Ummah do this, we will collectively attain honour like the Sahaba RA who were Haamile Qur'an and Saahibe Qur'an, those who recited, understood and practiced upon the injunctions of the Qur'an. Therfore we need to learn how to recite the Qur'an correctly and recite a portion of it on a daily basis, attend *lessons organised by authentic scholars for the explanation of the Qur'an and then practice upon the Qur'an. * For sisters there are receivers in the homes through which the lessons can be transmitted (in the UK). Lessons can also be heard live from websites of most scholars

The Duaa Taught to Hadhrat Abu Bakr (Radhiallahu Anhu) One should Recite the Following Duaa in the morning and evening: اللَّهُمَّ فَاطِرَ السَّمَوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ عَالِمَ الغَيْبِ وَالشَّهَادَةِ لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا أَنْتَ رَبَّ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ وَمَلِيكَهُ، أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّ نَفْسِي، وَمِنْ شَرِّ الشَّيْطَانِ وَشِرْكِهِ، وَأَنْ أَقْتَرِفَ عَلَى نَفْسِي سُوءًا أَوْ أَجُرَّهُ إِلَى مُسْلِمٍ O Allah, the Creator of the heavens and the Earth, the Knower of the unseen and everything that is visible, there is no deity worthy of worship besides You. You are the Lord and the Master of everything. I seek refuge in You from the evil of my soul and the evil of Shaytaan and his causing one to ascribe partners with Allah Ta’ala. And I seek Your refuge that I carry out any sin or I am the cause of harm coming to any Muslim. عن عبد الله بن عمرو بن العاص رضي الله عنه قال قال أبو بكر الصديق رضي الله عنه: يا رسول الله علمني ما أقول إذا أصبحت وإذا أمسيت، فقال: " يا أبا بكر قل: اللهم فاطر السموات والأرض عالم الغيب والشهادة لا إله إلا أنت رب كل شيء ومليكه، أعوذ بك من شر نفسي، ومن شر الشيطان وشركه، وأن أقترف على نفسي سوءا أو أجره إلى مسلم (ترمذي رقم 3529) Hadhrat Abdullah bin Amr (Radhiallahu Anhuma) reports that on one occasion Hadhrat Abu Bakr (Radhiallahu Anhu) asked Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) to teach him a Duaa that he should recite in the morning and evening. Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) taught him the following Duaa: اللَّهُمَّ فَاطِرَ السَّمَوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ عَالِمَ الغَيْبِ وَالشَّهَادَةِ لَا إِلَهَ إِلَّا أَنْتَ رَبَّ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ وَمَلِيكَهُ، أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ شَرِّ نَفْسِي، وَمِنْ شَرِّ الشَّيْطَانِ وَشِرْكِهِ، وَأَنْ أَقْتَرِفَ عَلَى نَفْسِي سُوءًا أَوْ أَجُرَّهُ إِلَى مُسْلِمٍ

How Women Were Lured Out of the Home in the USA By Areeba bint Khalid Posted: 9 Jamad-ul-Awwal 1424, 27 June 2004 From the 1800s to the present day, family life in the West has remarkably changed. While the West calls this change part of the women freedom movement, a look at history may show otherwise. America before the 1800s was a farming country and ninety percent of the population lived and worked on private farms. Households were mainly self-sufficient--nearly everything needed was produced in the house. The few things that could not be produced at home were bought from local craftsmen. Some other things, especially imports from Europe, were bought from stores. Males would take care of the fields and females would take care of the home. In addition, they would engage in spinning, knitting, weaving, and taking care of the farm animals. Industrial Revolution The Industrial Revolution, which began around the early 1800s, brought a major change to this way of life. In 1807, in the wake of the war between Great Britain and France, President Jefferson signed the Embargo Act, which stopped all trade between Europe and America. The Act meant that European goods would no longer be available in the US and Americans would have to produce them. One major European import to America was cloth, and so merchants used this opportunity to create a cloth industry in America. In 1814, Francis Cabot Lowell, a man from Boston opened the first modern factory. Work here was to be done way faster than before. Instead of manually making things in houses, things were to be made at higher speeds in a factory and all stages of the work were to be completed under the same roof. Now what Lowell needed were workers. He found out that women, especially unmarried daughters of the farmers, were more economical to use in labor than men. They were also more willing to work as hired people in factories. But Lowell had to make the working outside of home acceptable in a society which was not used to it. He assured parents that their daughters would be taken care of and kept under discipline. And he built a boarding community where the women workers lived and worked together. Soon after, more and more factories emerged across America. Factory owners followed Lowell's example of hiring unmarried women. By 1850 most of the country's goods were made in factories. As production of goods moved from the country to the city, people too moved from the country to the city. For money to be earned, people had to leave their homes. When women worked on the farm, it was always possible to combine work and family. When work for women moved outside the home, however, the only women who could follow it were those without family responsibilities or those who had no husband or no income. Likewise, the only women who could take care of their families were the ones that didn't have work. This working out of home became a part of life for unmarried women. They would work until their marriage. But as time passed, women found family life interfering with their work life and instead of viewing working out of home as optional, they viewed family life as such. Many women started delaying marriage even more and some decided to stay single. Married women however stayed home and dedicated their time to their children. Now that there wasn't any farm work to do, women had even more time to spend with the children. In 1900 less than about 5.6% of married women worked outside. If a married woman were to work, it would be considered that her husband was invalid or that she was poor. World War I The first major entry of married women to the workforce came during World War I in 1914. Men went to fight the war and the country needed workers to take over the jobs they left behind. Unmarried women were not sufficient for the labor needs, so employers started to invite married women too, to work. By 1919, 25% of the women in the workforce were married. But this was only the beginning. Another change World War I brought was the entry of women to the army. About 13,000 women enlisted in the US Navy, mostly doing clerical work--the first women in US history to be admitted to full military rank. Great Depression The Great Depression came in the 1930s. The unemployment rate climbed from 3.2% in 1929 to 23.6% in 1932. Jobs became scarce for skilled people and men. Fathers went to search for jobs. Some, under despair, deserted their families. The responsibility of earning fell on mothers in many families. Most women and children, however, found jobs more easily than men because of the segregation of work categories for men and women. Although 80% of men during the Great Depression opposed their wives entering the workforce under any circumstances, economic factors made it necessary for the women to work. Hours were long and pay was low. Twenty percent of white women were in the workforce. World War II World War II came in the early 1940s. Men were drafted to fight, and America needed workers and supplies. Again, the employers looked towards the women for labor. Unmarried and married women were invited to work, as had been done during World War I. But still, public opinion was generally against the working of married women. The media and the government started a fierce propaganda campaign to change this opinion. The federal government told the women that victory could not be achieved without their entry into the workforce. Working was considered part of being a good citizen, a working wife was a patriotic person. The government founded the Magazine Bureau in 1942. The Bureau published Magazine War Guide, a guide which told magazines which themes stories they should cover each month to aid war propaganda. For September 1943, the theme was "Women at Work". The slogan for this was "The More Women at Work the Sooner We Win." Magazines developed stories that glorified and promoted the placement of women into untraditional jobs where workers were needed. The idea was that if smaller, unexciting jobs were portrayed as attractive and noble more women would join the work force. The media created Rosie the Riveter, a mythical character to encourage women into the workforce. Rosie was portrayed as a patriotic woman, a hero for all American women. "All the day long, Whether rain or shine, She's a part of the assembly line. She's making history, Working for victory, Rosie the Riveter… There's something true about, Red, white, and blue about, Rosie the Riveter." The propaganda efforts worked. More than six million women joined the workforce during the war, the majority of them married women. In 1940, before the war, only 36% of women workers were married. By 1945, after the war, 50% of women workers were married. The middle class taboo against a working wife had been repealed. Post World War II The 1950s marked an era of prosperity in the lives of American families. Men returned from war and needed jobs. Once again, the government and media got together to steer the opinion of the public. This time, however, they encouraged women to return home, which shows that the women were brought out not for their freedom but because workers were needed. But this effort was not as successful and was abandoned quickly. First, women from lower economic ranks had to remain in the workforce because of economic necessity. And second, there came the rise of consumer culture. The baby boom took place during the 1950s as well. Women who returned home dedicated their lives once again to their children. But around the same time an important change had come in the American life. This was the spread of the television. By 1960, 90% of the population owned at least one set. Families would gather around the screen for entertainment. In the early days, everything including commercials was watched with great interest. Most middle-class families could not afford the goods the television declared necessary to maintain or enhance quality of life with one paycheck alone. Many women returned to work in order to live according to "the American standard of living," whatever that meant to them. The number of American women in the workforce from 1940 to 1950 increased by nine percent. From 1930 to 1940 there had only been a three percent increase. Effects As mothers returned to work, the television became the most important caretaker of a child. Children in the 1950s spent most of their non-sleeping hours in front of the television screen. In 1940, less than 8.6% of mothers with children under eighteen worked. By 1987, 60.2% of women with children under eighteen were working. As wives assumed larger roles in their family's financial support, they felt justified in demanding that husbands perform more childcare and housework. Across the years, divorce rates doubled reaching a level where at least 1 out of 2 marriages was expected to end in divorce. Marriage rates and birthrates declined. The number of single parent families rapidly increased. People grew unhappy with their lives, when compared to the lives of people on television. Women working affected the society in many different ways. The first and most important of these was that children with working mothers were left alone without the care of a mother. As the number of working women increased, the number of children growing up unsupervised increased, and with this increased crime among teens. Since most women placed their career ahead of family life, family life was greatly affected since unmarried women were generally able to make more money than married ones. For example, according to a study by a Harvard economist, women physicians who were unmarried and had no children earned thirteen percent more per year than those who were married and fifteen percent more than those with children. Today The majority of women still work at the lower levels of the economic pyramid. Most are employed in clerical positions, factory work, retail sales, or service jobs. Around 50% of the workforce is female. While about 78% of all cashiers and 99% of all secretaries today are female, only 31% of managers and administrators are female. Equality in the workplace has been a mirage but it has conned millions of women into leaving their homes and destroying the family structure. It was only when economic or political factors made it necessary to get more workers that women were called to work. The Industrial Revolution, the Great Depression, and the World Wars, all the major events which increased the proportion of women workers, were times when the capitalists required more workers in order to be successful in their plans and so they used women. The move of women from home to the public workforce has been gradual. First poor women went. Then unmarried women. Then married women without children. Then married women without young children And then, all women. The same thing can be seen to be happening in developing countries around the world, as the West spreads its propaganda of freedom for women to work. The results of this move will probably be the same too. Asma (RA) bint Yazid Ansarî came to Nabî and said: "O, Nabî of Allâh! You are dearer to me than my parents. The Muslim women have deputed me as their representative to talk to you on their behalf. Verily you are the Nabî of Allâh for both men and women. We stay for most part of our time within the four walls of our houses. We fulfill our duties as wives, bearing children for them and looking after their homes. And not withstanding all this, men excel us in rewards for things which we are unable to do. They perform their daily salât and weekly Jumu'ah in the masjid, visit the sick, attend the Janâza, perform Hajj after Hajj and participate in Jihad. We look after their property, bring up their children and weave cloth for them. Do we not share their rewards with them?" Nabî addressing the Sahâbâh (RA) sitting around him, said: "Did you ever hear a lady asking a better question?" The Sahâbâh (RA) replied: "O, Nabî of Allâh! We never thought that a woman could ever ask such a question. Nabî addressing Asma said: "Listen attentively, and then go and tell the ladies who have sent you that when a woman seeks the pleasure of her husband and carries out her domestic functions to his satisfaction, she receives the same reward as the men get for all their services to Allâh."

On Giving Charity Giving charity out of our wealth does not decrease our wealth but instead Allah (Subhaanahu WaTa'ala) increases it: “Allah will deprive usury of all blessing, but will give increase for deeds of charity: Allah loveth not the impious and guilty” (Qur‘an, 2: 276) Abu Hurairah (Radiallaahu Anhu) reported Allah’s Messenger (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) as saying: “Charity does not in any way decrease the wealth and the servant who forgives, Allah adds to his respect; and the one who shows humility, Allah elevates him in the estimation (of the people).” (Muslim Vol. 4, Hadith 6264) Sadaqah is not restricted to giving part of our wealth or material possessions or any special deed of righteousness. Islam considers all good deeds as sadaqah that increase our eeman: Abu Musa narrated that the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) said, “Every Muslim has to give in sadaqah (charity).” The people asked, “O Allah’s Messenger (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam)! If someone has nothing to give, what will he do?” He said, “He should work with his hands and benefit himself and also give in charity (from what he earns).” The people further asked, “If he cannot do even that?” He replied, “Then he should help the needy who appeal for help.” Then the people asked, “If he cannot do that?” He replied, “Then he should perform all that is good and keep away from all that is evil and this will be regarded as charitable deeds.” (Bukhari Vol. 2, Hadith 524) The Messenger of Allah (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) said: “To smile in the company of your brother is charity. To command to do good deeds and to prevent others from doing evil is charity. To guide a person in a place where he can not get astray is charity. To remove troublesome things like thorns and bones from the road is charity. To pour water from your jug into the jug of your brother is charity. To guide a person with defective vision is charity for you.” (Bukhari) For our own success, we should spend time, money and efforts in giving sadaqah for the pleasure of Allah Ta'ala as the rewards of sadaqah is nothing but success, especially in the Hereafter: “The likeness of those who spend for Allah’s sake is as the likeness of a grain of corn, it grows seven ears every single ear has a hundred grains, and Allah multiplies (increases the reward of) for whom He wills, and Allah is sufficient for His creatures’ needs, All-Knower).” (Qur’an, 2:261) “Those who (in charity) spend of their goods by night and by day, in secret and in public have their reward with their Rabb (only God and Sustainer). On them shall be no fear nor shall they grieve.” (Qur‘an, 2:274) Mu‘aadh bin Jabal (Radiallaahu Anhu) related from the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) “Sadaqah extinguishes sin as water extinguishes fire.” (Ahmad, Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah) The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) also said: “The believer’s shade on the Day of Resurrection will be his Sadaqah.” (Ahmad) To be able to enjoy Allah Ta'ala’s tremendous rewards for every sadaqah that we give, we need to observe the following teachings: 1. Sadaqah must be done sincerely for the pleasure of Allah Ta'ala and not out of riya‘ (show off) to gain praise or recognition from others: “O you who believe! Do not render vain your charity by reminders of your generosity or by injury, like him who spends his wealth to be seen of men and he does not believe in Allah nor in the last Day.” (Qur’an, 2: 264) Prophet Muhammad (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) said, “Seven people will be shaded by Allah under His shade on the day when there will be no shade except His. They are: 1. A just ruler, 2. A youth who grew up in the worship of Allah, 3. A man whose heart is attached to the mosque, 4. Two men who love each other for Allah’s sake, meeting for that and parting for that. 5. A man who is called by a woman of beauty and position but he says, “I fear Allah”, 6. a man who gives in charity and hides it, such that his left hand does not know what his right hand gives in charity, and 7. A man who remembered Allah in private and so his eyes shed tears.” (Sahih Al-Bukhari (Eng. translation) vol. 2, hadeeth no. 504) 2. Sadaqah must be from halal (lawful) source: Abu Hurairah (Radiallaahu Anhu) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) said, “If one gives in charity what equals one date-fruit from the honestly earned money, and Allah accepts only the honestly earned money, Allah takes it in His Right (hand). And then, enlarges its reward for that person (who has given it), as anyone of you brings up his baby horse, so much so that it becomes as big as a mountain.” (Bukhari, Vol. 2, Hadith 491) 3. Begin charity with your dependents: Hakim ibn Hizam narrated that the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) said: “The upper hand is better than the lower hand, (i.e., he who gives charity is better than him who takes it). One should start giving first to his dependents. And the best object of charity is that which is given by a wealthy person (from the money which is left after his expenses.) And whoever abstains from asking others for some financial help, Allah will give him and save him from asking others, Allah will make him self-sufficient.” (Bukhari, Vol. 2, Hadith 508) 4. Not to delay giving of sadaqah nor show lethargy or negligence in giving sadaq ah: And spend something (in charity) out of the substance which We have bestowed on you, before death should come to any of you and he should say, “O my Rabb (only God and Sustainer)! Why do you not give me respite for a little while? I should then have given (largely) in charity, and I should have been one of the doers of good.” (Qur’an, 63:10) Abu Hurairah (Radiallaahu Anhu) narrated that a man came to the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) and asked, “O Allah’s Messenger, which charity is the most superior in reward?” He replied, “The charity which you practice while you are healthy, niggardly and afraid of poverty and wish to become wealthy. Do not delay it to the time of approaching death and then say, ‘Give so much to such and such, and so much to such and such.’ (And it has already belonged to such and such (his heirs).” (Bukhari Vol. 2, Hadith 500) “Do not show lethargy or negligence in giving alms and charity till your last breath.” (Bukhari and Muslim) 5. Do not count the sadaqah you give: “Spend in charity and do not keep count for then Allah will also keep count in giving you provision.” (Bukhari and Muslim) 6. Seek only the desire to see Allah Ta'ala, which is the supreme success in Paradise. Do not expect favour or reward from any person for the sadaqah you give: “Those who spend their wealth for increase in self-purification, and have in their minds no favour from anyone for which a reward is expected in return, but only the desire to seek for the Countenance of their Creator Most High; and soon will they attain (complete) satisfaction.” (Qur’an, 92:18-21) Let us prepare ourselves for the everlasting world to come. Let us be among those who will earn Allah Ta'ala’s rewards in Jannah (the Garden of Bliss or Paradise) through giving sadaqah in many ways. Let us continue earning Allah’s rewards of our good deeds by giving sadaqah that continues to benefit others. Let us be inspired to give sadaqah with the following authentic hadeeth: Abu Hurairah (Radiallaahu Anhu) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wasalaam) said: “Verily what a believer continues to receive (in the form of reward) for his action and his virtues after his death is the knowledge which he acquired and then disseminated; the pious son that he left behind him; or a copy of the Qur’an which he left as a legacy; or the mosques that he had built; or the inn that he had built for the wayfarers; or the canal that he caused to flow, or a sadaqah which he gave out of his property in the state when he was healthy and alive. (These are the acts of goodness the reward of which) reaches him even after his death.” (Tirmidhi, 254; Ibn Majah and Bayhaqi) For those who are wealthy but miser or negligent in giving sadaqah may they take admonitions from the following words of Allah Ta'ala: So he who gives (in charity) and fears (Allah), and (in all sincerity) testifies to the Best, We will indeed make smooth for him the path to Ease. But he who is a greedy miser and thinks himself self-sufficient, and gives the lie to the Best, -- We will indeed make smooth for him the Path of Misery; nor will his wealth profit him when he falls headlong (into the Pit). Verily We take upon Us to guide, and verily unto Us (belong) the End and the Beginning. Therefore do I warn you of a Fire blazing fiercely; none shall burn therein but those most unfortunate ones who give the lie to Truth and turn their backs. But those most devoted to Allah shall be removed far from it. (Qur’an, 92:4-17) May Allah the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful give us opportunities to use the many ways of giving sadaqah for His pleasure and reward us the best life, especially in the Hereafter. May we spend our lives, time, money and efforts to do deeds that Allah Ta'ala accepts as forms of sadaqah solely for His Sake. May our Rabb save us from the Hell-Fire by protecting us from being miserly. Ameen. islaaminfo.co.za

Imam Ahmad ibn Muhammad ibn Hambal (rahimahullah) was born in the year: 164 A.H, and he passed away in the year: 241 A.H. His Sojourn Imam Ahmad (rahimahullah) began his quest for the knowledge of hadith at the age of 16. He set out for Kufah in the year 183 A.H. and to Basrah in 186 A.H. and to Sufyan ibn ‘Uyaynah in Makkah in 187 A.H. He went to Imam Abdur Razzaq (rahimahullah) in San’a –together with Imam Yahya bin Ma’in (rahimahullah)- in the year 197 A.H. He is quite renown due to his celebrated work: Al-Musnad; a huge hadith collection. Ibnul Jawzi (rahimahullah) states: “Imam Ahmad (rahimahullah) traveled the world twice and thereafter he compiled his Musnad.” Imam Ahmad (rahimahullah) says: “I traveled in the search of knowledge and hadith to: Syria, Morocco, Al-Jazair, Makkah, Madinah, Yemen, ‘Iraq, Persia and Khurasan and then returned to Baghdad. When I went to Kufah, I was once at a stage when I only had a brick as my pillow”! Unmatched Determination Yahya ibn Ma’in (rahimahullah) narrates a few outstanding incidents that occurred during his journey with Imam Ahmad to Imam Abdur Razzaq (rahimahullah) who was settled in San’a; Yemen He says: “When we set out for Imam Abdur Razzaq to Yemen, we first went for Haj. One day whilst I was in tawaf, I spotted Imam Abdur Razzaq. So I greeted him and said to him: “Here is your brother Imam Ahmad ibn Hambal!” He replied: “May Allah keep him alive and steadfast for verily I have heard every good about him”. Then I said to Imam Ahmad: “Allah has shortened our distance, granted us surplus wealth and he has saved us from a month long journey”. Imam Ahmad said : “In Baghdad I had intended to hear (hadith) from Abdur Razzaq in San’a, by Allah! I shall never change my Intention”. Remarkable reliance upon Allah Yahya says: “When we went to Sa’a, Imam Ahmad’s wealth became exhausted. Imam Abdur Razzaq offered him a large sum of money but he refused to accept it. Then he asked him to take it as a loan, but he still refused. He also refused our wealth when we had offered him. When we checked on him we found that he use to sell belts and eat of its profit”. Ibnul Jawzi (rahimahullah) writes in his book “Manaqibul Imam Ahmad” that once Imam Abdur Razzaq mentioned Imam Ahmad and tears came to his eyes. He then said: “He came to us and stayed for approximately 2 years. I once came to know that his money finished so I took him by his hand behind the door and when we were alone I said to him: “Verily I do not accumulate a lot of wealth. When we sell the crops the money gets used up in something or the other, yet I have found 10 dinars by the womenfolk of the house, so take it and I hope that before you spend it we would have acquired more. He replied: “O Abdur Razzaq! If I ever accepted anything from people I would have accepted from you.” Ibnul Jawzi then narrated from Imam Is-haq ibn Rahuyah[1] (rahimahullah) who said: “When Imam Ahmad went to Abdur Razzaq and his expenditure became exhausted, his compatriots offered to assist him he refused. Instead he had hired himself out as a porter until he reached San’a.” Hard Labour Ahmad ibn Sinan Al-Wasity says: “I have heard that Imam Ahmad on one occasion pawned his shoes by a baker in lieu of food that he had taken from him”!! While discussing the hardships that Imam Ahmad experienced in his student days, Hafiz Ibn Kathir (rahimahullah) mentions: “And his clothes were stolen while he was in Yemen so he stayed in his room. When his companions became aware of this they offered him gold coins but he refused. In fact he only took 1 Dinar with the condition that he will become their scribe!” i.e, He took it as a payment for his effort) May Allah Ta’ala fill his grave with mercy and noor. Ameen. Extracted from the book: صفحات من صبر العلماء على شدائد العلم والتحصيل “Incidents of the sacrifices of the ‘Ulama in their quest for knowledge” By Shaykh ‘Abdul Fattah Abu Ghuddah (rahimahullah) Moral The lesson to learn from this aspect of the life of this great Imam is that he had remained independent from everyone besides Allah Ta’ala. Let us also follow his footsteps in that if we are poverty stricken we would rather earn our money through our own effort instead of accepting handouts from people. After all, in this way he became “Imam ul Muslimin” (in the words of Yahya ibn Ma’in) [1] According to the Muhaddithun, this is the correct pronunciation. The linguists pronounce it as: “RAHA WAIH”. Refer to the footnotes of Shaykh Abdul Fatah Abu Ghuddah (rahimahullah) on Qawa’id fi ‘Ulum il Hadith, pg.131. almiftah

Difficulty with social communication For people with autistic spectrum disorders, 'body language' can appear just as foreign as if people were speaking ancient Greek. People with autism have difficulties with both verbal and non-verbal language. Many have a very literal understanding of language, and think people always mean exactly what they say. They can find it difficult to use or understand: facial expressions or tone of voice jokes and sarcasm common phrases and sayings; an example might be the phrase 'It's cool', which people often say when they think that something is good, but strictly speaking, means that it's a bit cold. Some people with autism may not speak, or have fairly limited speech. They will usually understand what other people say to them, but prefer to use alternative means of communication themselves, such as sign language or visual symbols. Others will have good language skills, but they may still find it hard to understand the give-and-take nature of conversations, perhaps repeating what the other person has just said (this is known as echolalia) or talking at length about their own interests. It helps if other people speak in a clear, consistent way and give people with autism time to process what has been said to them. Source

Wa'alaykumus salaam Shaykh Sudais! I just love his recitation!

Who is the Greatest Champion of Human Rights? Even a cursory glance at the life of Allah’s Beloved Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam gives clear answer to this. The life of Prophet Muhammad Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam brims with kindness, compassion and love for all of Allah’s creation. Whether it was the nobility of the time or the lowliest of servants, the Prophet’s example was always one of unrivalled mercy and compassion. Even the animals and insects were not overlooked by his encompassing nature of mercy. Perhaps the ultimate display of this mercy was at the Conquest of Makkah. The Prophet Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam, standing as victor and conqueror over his greatest of enemies who for 20 years did all they could to destroy the Prophet and the religion of Islam, does not unsheathe the sword, rather he bestows general forgiveness and amnesty. Such forgiveness was and is without similitude in human history. Profound was his example and profound are his words: § The best of men is he who brings the greatest benefit to Mankind. (Musnad Shihaab) § Those who are merciful will be afforded mercy by Rahmaan (the Most Merciful). Show mercy to the dwellers of the earth and the One in the heaven will be merciful to you. (Abu Dawud) § The creation is the family of Allah. Thus the most loved person by Allah is the one who is the best to His family. (Shuabul Imaan) May Allah grant us the ability to follow in the Prophet’s Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam noble footsteps, Ameen. Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians 223 Alpine Road, Overport, Durban

Friday today!

عن أبي هريرة رضي الله عنه عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال صلوا علي فإنها زكاة لكم واسألوا الله لي الوسيلة فإنها درجة في أعلى الجنة لا ينالها إلا رجل وأرجو أن أكون أنا هو (مسند أحمد رقم 8770) Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah (Radhiallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Recite durood upon me, for certainly it is a form of purification for you. And ask Allah Ta’ala to grant me the position of “Waseela”, which is a rank in the highest stages of Paradise which is reserved for only one person, and I hope that I am blessed with this honour and position. Face being Transformed to a Swine In Nuzhatul majaalis, the following incident is recorded: “A man and his son were on a journey. On the way, the father passed away and his face was transformed to that of a swine. The son, seeing this, cried bitterly and made duaa to Allah Ta’ala for the welfare of his father. Soon the son fell asleep and saw a man telling him, “Your father used to consume interest, for this reason you now see his face in this condition. But rejoice for Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has interceded on his behalf, for whenever he heard the blessed name of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), he recited durood upon him. Through the intercession of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), his face has now been changed to its original form.” (Fazaail Durood) يَا رَبِّ صَلِّ وَ سَلِّم دَائِمًا أَبَدًا عَلَى حَبِيبِكَ خَيرِ الخَلْقِ كُلِّهِمِ

Protection before sleeping: 1 Sleep in Wudhu 2 Recite Ayatul-Kursi [2:255] before sleeping وأخرج البخاري في صحيحه من حديث أبي هريرة قال : وكلني رسول الله صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم بحفظ زكاة رمضان ، فأتاني آت فجعل يحثو وذكر قصة ، وفي آخرها أنه قال له : دعني أعلمك كلمات ينفعك الله بها ، قلت : ما هي ؟ قال : إذا أويت إلى فراشك فاقرأ آية الكرسي ، فإنك لن يزال عليك من الله حافظ ، ولا يقربك شيطان حتى تصبح ، فأخبر أبو هريرة بذلك رسول الله صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم فقال : أما إنه صدقك وهو كذوب ، تعلم من تخاطب يا أبا هريرة ؟ قال : لا ، قال : ذلك شيطان كذا Sayyidina Abu Huraira (RA) said, "Allah's Apostle (Sallaho Alaihe Wassallam) put me in charge of the Zakat of Ramadan (i.e. Zakat-ul-Fitr). Someone came to me and started scooping some of the foodstuff of (Zakat) with both hands. I caught him and told him that I would take him to Allah's Apostle (Sallaho Alaihe Wassallam)." Then Sayyidina Abu Huraira (RA) told the whole narration and added "He (i.e. the thief) said, 'Whenever you go to your bed, recite the Verse of "Al-Kursi" (2.255) for then a guardian from Allah will be guarding you, and Satan will not approach you till dawn.' " On that Allah's Apostle (Sallaho Alaihe Wassallam) said, "He told you the truth, though he is a liar, and he (the thief) himself was the Satan." [bukhari] 3 Recite 3 Quls, blow on the hands and rub it all over the body. عن عائشة رضي الله عنها : ( أَنَّ النَّبِيَّ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيهِ وَسَلَّمَ كَانَ إِذَا أَوَى إِلَى فِرَاشِهِ كُلَّ لَيلَةٍ جَمَعَ كَفَّيهِ ثُمَّ نَفَثَ فِيهِمَا فَقَرَأَ فِيهِمَا ( قُل هُوَ اللَّهُ أَحَدٌ ) و ( قُل أَعُوذُ بِرَبِّ الفَلَقِ ) و ( قُل أَعُوذُ بِرَبِّ النَّاسِ ) ، ثُمَّ يَمسَحُ بِهِمَا مَا استَطَاعَ مِن جَسَدِهِ ، يَبدَأُ بِهِمَا عَلَى رَأسِهِ وَوَجهِهِ وَمَا أَقبَلَ مِن جَسَدِهِ ، يَفعَلُُ ذَلكَ ثَلاثَ مَرَّاتٍ ) رواه البخاري ) It was narrated from ‘Aa’ishah (RA) that when the Prophet (Sallaho Alaihe Wassallam) went to bed every night, he would hold his hands together and blow into them, and recite into them Qul Huwa Allaahu Ahad, Qul a’oodhu bi rabb il-falaq and Qul a’oodhu bi rabb il-naas. Then he would wipe them over whatever he could of his body, starting with his head and face and the front of his body, and he would do that three times. [bukhari] 3 Recite the following duas before sleeping and then after waking up respectively: a "Allahumma bismika amutu wa ahya," ‏ ‏اللهم باسمك أموت وأحيا b "Al-Hamdu lil-lahi al-ladhi ahyana ba'da ma amatana, wa ilaihi an-nushur," الحمد لله الذي أحيانا بعد ما أماتنا وإليه النشور ‏ ‏حدثني ‏ ‏موسى بن إسماعيل ‏ ‏حدثنا ‏ ‏أبو عوانة ‏ ‏عن ‏ ‏عبد الملك ‏ ‏عن ‏ ‏ربعي ‏ ‏عن ‏ ‏حذيفة ‏ ‏رضي الله عنه ‏ ‏قال ‏ ‏كان النبي ‏ ‏صلى الله عليه وسلم ‏ ‏إذا أخذ مضجعه من الليل وضع يده تحت خده ثم يقول ‏ ‏اللهم باسمك أموت وأحيا وإذا استيقظ قال الحمد لله الذي أحيانا بعد ما أماتنا وإليه النشور ‏ Narrated Sayyidina hudhaifa (RA) : When the Prophet (Sallaho Alaihe Wassallam) went to bed at night, he would put his hand under his cheek and then say, "Allahumma bismika amutu wa ahya," and when he got up, he would say, "Al-Hamdu lil-lahi al-ladhi ahyana ba'da ma amatana, wa ilaihi an-nushur."" [Muslim] central-mosque

Leaving the home with the left foot Question Is there a hadith which says we should exit the house with the left foot? Answer There are numerous narrations which state that Nabi (sallalahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) would use his right limbs for putting on clothes and carrying out honourable things like eating, combing his hair, wudhu etc. and his left limbs for removing his clothes and carrying out lowly, despicable things like istinja, entering the toilet etc. (See Sahih Bukhari, hadith: 168) Based on these hadiths, it is sunnah to do all honourable and respectful things with one’s right limbs and despicable things with one’s left limbs. The ‘Ulama have recommended entering the home with the right foot and leaving the home with the left foot based on the above principle, although they don’t quote any clear hadith stating this. (Fatawa Hadithiyyah of Ibn Hajar Al Haytami pg. 117 and Dalilul Falihin of Ibn ‘Allan, vol. 3 pg. 186) And Allah Ta’ala Knows best Verified by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar & Moulana Muhammad Abasoomer Hadith Answers

The Manner of Correcting People There is a procedure in correcting a person. If we go against the procedure then it will only create fitnah and problems. Going against the procedure and adopting a hard approach is only for those who are divinely assisted, for if they adopt a harsh approach then through the aid of Allah Ta‘ala there will be no fitnah that will come about. The problem nowadays is that we like to spectate and look to see who is being insulted and smashed down. Hence, we should ask ourselves, are we reading these articles for deeni reasons or for enjoyment? Will we ever enjoy reading about our father being disgraced? The correct procedure of correction is to address and speak to the person directly. If you have no authority and you make it public then you can face a lawsuit. If taken out in public then the public will get confused and they will lose confidence in the ‘Ulama, and this is what is happening nowadays. Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) also corrected others, but he did not use vulgar language and lose his akhlaaq. As a senior, one is not supposed to be chasing people away, but to bring them closer. This was the way of our elders. They avoided causing any split in the Ummah. Source: Al-Haadi

A beautiful new compilation of the teachings of our respected Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullah. words_to_treasure.pdf at tazkiyah

Wa'alaykumus salaam ww Jazaakillah!

: ) I've never seen a discussion on this topic without emotions getting the better of people... There would be jealousy as its a natural instinct however I believe it would work if everyone concerned (men and women) kept the laws of Allah ta'ala in the forefront. There are many examples of women quite happily sharing a husband...as seen here and here ...

Contact Details of Scholars The following qualified Scholars of Islam may be contacted for help and advise. Mufti Zubair Dudha (Hafizahullah) Islamic Tarbiyah Aacdemy Contact Page 45 Boothroyd Lane, West Town, Dewsbury, WF13 2RB Tel-Fax: (01924) 450422 Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat Islamic Da'wah Academy Advise & Information Contact Page 120 Melbourne Road Leicester, England United Kingdom LE2 0DS Tel +44 116 262 5440 Fax +44 116 242 5016 Mufti Ebrahim Salejee Al-Haadi - Madrasah Taleemuddeen Contact Page Ispingo Beach South Africa Mufti Ebrahim Desai AskImam.org Contact Page Mufti A H Elias Al-Islam Contact Page Shaykh Faraz Rabbani Contact Page

References, Useful Links, and Further Reading The following resources are full of very beneficial advices which would be impossible to incorporate within the topic. We hope readers find them useful and become a means of finding tranquillity of the heart and peace of mind inshaAllah. Reading Material "Tafweez" - A Must Read! Shaykh Yunus Patel The Cure for Depression The Virtues of Patience Inter-Islam Suicide as seen in Islam Inter-Islam Don't be Sad Download Aaed ibn Abdullah al-Qarni At a time in which the Muslims are beset with trials from every periphery and within, comes this heartening book rooted in the commandments of Allah (swt), the Sunnah and the excellent guidance and examples of the Muslims that have come before us. Don’t Be Sad is an absolute must-read for all people. It is full of practical advice on how to replace sadness with a pragmatic and ultimately satisfying Islamic outlook on life. It exposes to the modern reader how Islam teaches us to deal with the tests and tribulations of this world. Patience & Gratitude By Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah This work deals with the closely-related topics of patience and gratitude. Although often translated as “patience”, the Arabic word sabr has a broader and deeper meaning than the English. Depending on the context, it may mean fortitude, patience, equanimity, forbearance, patient endurance, etc. Shukr may be translated as “gratitude” or "thankfulness". As is shown in the book, patience and gratitude are two sides of the same coin, closely-related attitudes which the Muslim should seek to foster in every aspect of his or her life. This kind of spiritual advice is something that today’s Muslims so desperately need. Far from being a set of empty rituals and nit-picking legal technicalities, or a set of words to be repeated or chanted ad nauseam, Islâm is a holistic way of life: if it is applied only partially, imbalance will result. Patience_and_Gratitude.pdf Cure for Depression For steps to help cure depression and other beneficial reading material Vicious Cycle of Depression Info-Vicious Cycle of Depression.pdf Audio Shaykh Hasan Ali The Solution to all your Problems Part 1 & 2 - MUST LISTEN!! http://www.mediafire.com/listen/lyd3245d3hrbcd4/The_Solution_to_all_your_Problems_-_1-2_-_Shaykh_Hasan_Ali.mp3#sthash.h2bha21I.dpuf http://www.mediafire.com/listen/q13895inc9l2w4a/The_Solution_to_all_your_Problems_-_2-2_-_Shaykh_Hasan_Ali.mp3#sthash.h2bha21I.dpuf Shaykh Sulaiman Moola Why You are Depressed and The Cure! Depression is one of the most contemporary and paramount issues present in the world today — Whether it is in the Muslim or the Non-Muslim World. The psychiatric industry shows depression research as the largest budgetary item, totaling nearly a third of NIMH's $604-million annual expenditures. Muslims have been given the best cure, for depression 1400 years ago, however, unfortunately most of us Muslims are unaware of it. Many of the Muslim youth are flooded with depression in their lives, and since the youth make up more than 50% of the total Muslim population, thus, the Muslims in general are greatly impacted. "Truly in the heart there is a void that can not be removed except with the company of Allah. And in it there is a sadness that can not be removed except with the happiness of knowing Allah and being true to Him. And in it there is an emptiness that can not be filled except with love for Him and by turning to Him and always remembering Him And if a person were given all of the world and what is in it, it would not fill this emptiness" [Not a Hadith]. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3aY-QRHPWuk Depression vs Contentment Q&A Sheikh Sulaiman Moola http://www.mediafire...aiman_Moola.mp3 Suicide the Killer Shaykh Sulaiman Moola Mufti Abdurrahman Ibn Yusuf Mangera Dealing with Depression and the Realities of Patience Mufti Ismail Menk DEPRESSED Stay Calm Because Life is a Test http://www.mediafire...e_is_a_Test.mp3 Do you have problems in life-Watch This http://www.mediafire..._Mufti_Menk.mp3 Nouman Ali Khan I feel Ugly and Depressed, Help http://mfi.re/listen/uw2diad9fuh4afh/I_FEEL_UGLY_AND_DEPRESSED,_HELP_-_ISLAMIC_LECTURES_-_NOUMAN_ALI_KHAN.mp3 Depression and Grief-A Result of Our Sins Imam Mohammad Khalid

أنا لله و أنا اليه راجعون Contemplating on its meaning will Remove all Grief Shaikh Mohammad Kaleem (Allah preserve him) a senior khalifa of Arif billah Dr Abdul Hayy Arifi (Allah have mercy on him) said to a brother who lost his twenty three year old son suddenly, ‘It is only in Islamic teaching that we find a definite contentment from grief and loss. It is very effective and well tested. At the times of grief and loss we recite, أنا لله و أنا اليه راجعون “We certainly belong to Allah, and to Him we are bound to return.” (2:156) However, it is a pity that we do it without contemplating on its meaning. In fact the reality revealed in this verses is so immense that contemplating on its meaning will remove all grief. In it Allah conveys , that in relationships this (lost one) maybe your mother, wife, father or son, etc., however, all these relationships are temporal (majazi) and temporary. They have been created for effective functioning of the society in this world. Whereas, in this verse Allah makes it explicitly clear that nothing in this universe belongs to anyone. It all belongs to Allah alone. Why is it so? It is because Allah is the creator. They are all created. He created them from nothing. He is their Sustainor. They all belong to Him. They can not comprehend the rationality behind His commands and magnanimity of His decrees. They have been instructed with these temporal relationships of being a father, mother, wife, etc. In reality they all belong to Allah and He alone owns them. Hence, He has full right to deal in their affairs as He desires. No one can question or forbid Him. Moreover, it is His mercy that He has informed us in advance that we are going to be afflicted with grief and loss either in financial issues or in status or with death of a dear one. And in these circumstance if we observe the patience that is required, that is, the proclamation of His Divinity and acknowledgement that every thing belongs to Him alone, then we will be rewarded with a compensation that is beyond our imagination. Moreover, we will receive His special mercy, salutations and be from the perfectly guided individuals. An immense reward indeed for patience. How can a person grieve when he acknowledges that everything belongs to Allah alone, He has full right to do whatsoever and He does so with absolute wisdom.’ Shaikh Mohammad Kaleem sahib db’s residence. Darul Uloom Karachi, Sunday, noon, 18th December 2012.

Preventative Measures From the advices and prescriptions mentioned in previous posts we have compiled a list of preventative measures which if adopted when faced with any form of hardship, worry, anxiety. fear etc., there is very little chance of the development of depression. As soon as one is struck by any Affliction Adopt Tafweedh Do not say, "If Only" . Adopt Patience & Turn to Prayer: Turn to Allah with Du'a Increase Repentance Adopt Tawakkul Seek Advice from Reliable Muslim Scholars Seek Medical help when Necessary