ummtaalib

House of Fatimah (may Allah be pleased with her) This door (intricately patterned metal doors, heavily secured with antique locks), on the eastern side of the Roza Mubarak marks the place where the door of the house of Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) and his wife Fatima (may Allah be pleased with her) was located. Fatima (may Allah be pleased with her) was the youngest and most beloved daughter of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him).This was the residence of Fatimah and her husband Ali and their five esteemed children, Hasan, Hussein, Mohsin (who died in childhood) Umme Kulthoom and Zainab RadhiAllahu anhum. References: History of Madinah Munawwarah – Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Abdul Ghani & Almiskeenah

The Dwellings of the Wives of the Prophet sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam Layout of Hujraat (Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed) Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) was buried in the house of Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) in whose house he was staying at the time of his death. The wives of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) lived in small, simple huts adjacent to the masjid. Each hut consisted of a room which was approximately 5m x 4m with a small backyard and were made of unbaked bricks of mud with branches of palm tree as a roof covering. Sauda & Hafsa On the left side of the hut of Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) was the hut of Sauda (may Allah be pleased with her), the second wife of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him). The hut of Hafsa (may Allah be pleased with her), another wife of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) and the daughter of Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) was on the opposite side. There used to be a very narrow street between their houses, just enough for one person to walk through. Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) and Hafsa (may Allah be pleased with her) used to converse with each other while sitting in their own huts. Part of the hut of Hafsa (may Allah be pleased with her) was located inside the present Sacred Chamber and part of it is where visitors stand for salutation to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him). (Notes from Islamic Landmarks) From Almiskeenah Hujuratu Ummahatil Mu’mineen and other adjacent features. The heart swims in an elixir of sweetness as it is carried back to when these rooms were of clay bricks, ceilings of dried date palm leaves, doorways covered with the hides of animals or thick sack cloth. Compacted earthen floors blessed by the noble feet of all the beloved wives RadhiAllahu anhunna of our Blessed Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam as they tended to their daily chores and welcomed others into their modest and humble rooms. Spaces that witnessed our Beloved Nabi SallAllahu alaihi wasallam performing domestic tasks, receiving revelations, entertaining his guests, playing with his grandsons, fare welling loved ones. Walls that he SallAllahu alaihi wasallam passed in and out of and that protected him from the elements for ten years. SubhanAllah. By familiarizing ourselves with the details of how these most blessed rooms on the face of the earth were kindles a love that flames the desire to be closer and to help quell the longing for ostentation. Our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam had he wished, could have built lofty mansions and palaces, but he chose the bliss of the Hereafter as his focus, teaching that pomp and show in this life does not equate with success, that all is temporal. Say: The provision of this world is but small, while the next is better for whoever is God-wary. (4:77) Reflecting on how these Hujurat were brings stillness and deepens the understanding of the importance of zuhud, renunciation of that which steals our contemplation from our true purpose here. Junayd Rahmatullah alaih eloquently said about Zuhud: It is seeing the world as insignificant and erasing its vestiges from the heart, and it is that the hand be free of property and the heart of pursuing it. While Shibli Rahmatullah alaih said: It is to abstain from what is other than God Most High. Allow yourself to be transported back…and then assess your own Hujurat. The Hujuraat (Marked by the coloured circles): green: Sayyidatuna Aishah bint Abu Bakr RadhiAllahu anha red: Sayyidatuna Fatimah RadhiAllahu anha yellow: Sayyidatuna Hafsah bint ‘Umat RadhiAllahu anha dark blue: Sayyidatuna Sauda bint Zama RadhiAllahu anha lime: originally Sayyidatuna Zaynab bint Khuzaymah RadhiAllahu anha before her untimely passing, followed by Sayyidatuna Umm Salamah bint Abu Umama RadhiAllahu anha light blue: Sayyidatuna Zaynab bint Jahsh RadhiAllahu anha lilac: Sayyidatuna Juwayriya bint al-Harith RadhiAllahu anha purple: Sayyidatuna Umm Habibah Ramla bint Abu Sufyan RadhiAllahu anha orange: Sayyidatuna Maimoonah RadhiAllahu anha brown: direction of first Qibla to Jerusalem, when there was a southern door to the Masjid (large pink) burgundy: Minbar green area: Rowdha Shareef with the mihrab (small royal blue) position at the time of our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Abwab (Doors) marked by the coloured lines: pink, Bab Baqi, blue Bab Jibreel, green Babun-Nisa. The positions of Bab Salam (lime) and Bab Rahmah (orange) at the time of our Blessed Rasulullah SallAllahu alahi wasallam, realizing that they are now positioned on the walls of the extensions blue X: place where Sayyidna Bilal RadhiAllahu anhu delivered Adhan for Juma’ah, while the orange X indicates where he would stand on the stump of a palm trunk for all other Adhans. green X: marks the place where a frame was erected for the donated bunches of dates to be hung for the Ahle Suffa from various donors. pink X: is the approximate place where the Banu Thaqeef pitched their tent when they traveled from Taif seeking teachings from our Blessed Rasulullah SallAllahu alahi wasallam.

To know or not to know Once, the people of the city invited Mulla Nasruddin to deliver a speech. When he got on the minbar (pulpit), he found the audience was not very enthusiastic, so he asked "Do you know what I am going to say?" The audience replied "NO", so he announced "I have no desire to speak to people who don't even know what I will be talking about" and he left. The people felt embarrassed and called him back again the next day. This time when he asked the same question, the people replied "YES" So Mullah Nasruddin said, "Well, since you already know what I am going to say, I won't waste any more of your time" and he left. Now the people were really perplexed. They decided to try one more time and once again invited the Mullah to speak the following week. Once again he asked the same question - "Do you know what I am going to say?" Now the people were prepared and so half of them answered "YES" while the other half replied "NO". So Mullah Nasruddin said "The half who know what I am going to say, tell it to the other half" and he left!

Marriage!!! Marriage is like a deck of cards. In the beginning all you need is two hearts and a diamond By the end you wish you had a club and spade!

Passing the examination of life If in any school, university, college or institute, questions of an examination are given or there is a paper ‘leak-out’, the examination is cancelled or reset. Allah Ta’ala has given us the final question paper consisting of three outwardly simple questions. The preparation time has also been given – i.e. our lives. The examiners are also known: Munkar and Nakeer. The consequences too have been spelt out. There is tremendous reward and honour in passing the examination, and there is disgrace and punishment on failure. Even though it would take just a few seconds to learn such simple questions and answers, such that even 3 and 4 year olds could be taught the same, and can memorize them, it is not as easy as it seems. Had it been so extremely easy, many more would have led their lives in accordance to the demands and dictates of the nafs …. because the answers are known. However this is not the reality of our final examination. These answers depend on one’s life and one’s preparations for it. The 3 questions to be asked, as we know, are : Who is your Rabb ? What is your Deen ? Who is this man ? (i.e. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) If we say that Allah Ta’ala is our Rabb (Sustainer), we have to recognize Him as our Creator; as the One who has blessed us with all our spiritual, physical and material gifts. We have to recognize Him through His signs and we have to submit to and obey Him in this worldly life. This recognition is what will bring Ibaadah (worship) into practice. The second question can only be answered if a person has lived a life of Submission to Allah Ta’ala by following the Shariah which He revealed to His Messenger (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam). The third question can only be answered if a person has followed the way of life of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam). It won’t be possible for the person who lived the lifestyle of the enemies of Islam to answer this question easily. Although we claim that we have Imaan and love for Allah Ta’ala and His Rasul (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam), our actions contradict our claim. We assert and affirm that the true religion is Islam but we do not practise on its beautiful teachings. …Why? A person may bribe, lie and cheat just to pass an examination of this world but there is no possibility for the same in the Grave. To fly through the examination of the grave, we need to develop our Imaan in Allah Ta’ala, adorn our hearts with His Love and Ma’rifat (Recognition) and grace our lives with a practical expression of Islam by following the Sunnah of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam). There is no other way to pass this most crucial examination of life. And we should always keep in mind that there is no re-testing and no re-marking. A person either passes or he fails. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the understanding of the greatness of this test, and the effort to work in the direction of preparation for the questioning of the grave, that we may pass without any difficulty and with distinction. by Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (rahmatullah alayh) islaaminfo.co.za

A debate has been going on about defining or redefining Islãm and its followers. Several terms have been designed to make a distinction among Muslims' various political schools of thoughts. These terms sometimes appear attractive, especially in the state of confusion in which we live. They provide us with a different approach to identify ourselves. However, when we look at these terms deeply, we begin to realize that they are meant to define us in the mould of our thinking influenced by our social and political milieu. Terms that are in fashion currently are moderate Islãm, progressive Islãm, enlightened Islãm, modern Islãm, extremist Islãm, liberal Islãm, conservative Islãm, reformed Islãm, orthodox Islãm, fundamentalist Islãm, medieval Islãm, and obscurantist Islãm, etc. What is interesting is that these terms emerge from the limitations of our own readings of Islãm controlled by our own social political experiences. For instance, in the context of the West, it is now fashionable to use terms such as progressive Islãm and moderate Islãm. When asked to define these terms, their proponents say that "moderate" or "progressive" Islãm opposes violence, accepts the universal charter of human rights, promotes gender equality and recognizes the idea of pluralism. Dialectically, what they are saying is that there is an Islãm that does not recognize the value of non-violence, that rejects universal charter of human rights and that opposes the idea of gender equality and pluralism. If this is the basis of redefining Islãm, then it is a weak premise. Islam is a faith given to human beings to live their lives according to certain values originally defined by the Divine. People have a choice to reject them or accept them because they are responsible for their own actions. Islãm does not advocate violence. Those who use violence as a means to achieve their goals, however noble their goals may be, are essentially in violation of their faith. They are the ones who are deviating from the path of Islãm. Why should their deviation cause some Muslims to redefine Islãm and form a separate category of moderate or progressive Islãm in order to make a distinction between the two? There are always people and groups who use their faith to promote their own political and economic agenda. This is true with all religions. The most effective way to confront such people is to develop a sound argument on the basis of a comprehensive understanding of the divine values and prophetic teachings. This is a struggle that we all have to carry on within ourselves and in the society at large. Creating further divisions and categorizing ourselves in terms that refer to our own political expediencies will not serve the real purpose of the faith. Islãm, after all, demands from every Muslim to be a witness to the truth. The truth is clear in Islãm. We cannot change it for our political purposes. Thus, the coinage of these terms is primarily a weak strategy that defeats the very purpose of the faith. The questions that ought to be raised, then, are: what is this truth and how do we discern it from the falsehood? The truth will emerge from our quest of knowledge, experiences, wisdom and guidance from the Divine. The truth will not be dictated by a few sound bites of President Bush or Daniel Pipes or people like them. In the case of Islãm, the truth, as perceived by Muslims based on their general readings of the Qur’ãn, is that Islãm is a divinely revealed faith that commands its adherents to follow the principles of monotheism, justice, equality, and peace in all aspects of their life. We have to understand our world in the context of these divinely revealed truths and develop suitable instruments to ensure that they are shared with the rest of the world. Thus, our struggle is to be a witness to these truths and to challenge all those who are in violation of these regardless of what label they assume. In the Qur’ãn, the Divine tells us of people who would call themselves Muslims, yet, would do everything that is contrary to the teachings of Islãm. It is not a prudent strategy to say that because of the deviations of others, we are changing our self definition and coining a new term to describe our relation with our faith. Our commitment to our faith is based on the criterion of right and wrong.The propagation of new terminologies by various Mu slim s is leadi ng our community into a bewilderment of confusing ideas without realizing that the principles of faith cannot be compromised for our understanding or lack of understanding of political realities. Thus, we have two tasks at hand. First, internally we have to challenge those who a r e d e v i a t i n g f r o m t h e foundation of Islãm, and second we have to communicate to the rest of the world the real foundation on which our faith stands. It is better that we spend our time and resources in these areas rather than wasting our energy in coining and recoining terms that confuse us and others as well. When we do what is expected of us in Islãm, we will notice qualitative change in our own attitude as well as the attitude of the people in our faith. At-Tarbiyah Islamic Tarbiyah Academy

Hajj Days Soon!! Travelling for Hajj Now Jeddah Airport Or the International Airport in Madinah & Before (Click on pictures to Enlarge)

Model of the layout of the Positions of the various Residences around the Mehraab of Prophet sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam a. Prophet’s SAWS mihrab b. Aisha b. Abu Bakr’s RA residence c. Hafsa b. Umar’s RA residence d. Zainab b. Jahsh’s RA residence (not pictured) e. Zainab b. Kuzayma’s RA) residence (not pictured) f. Fatima’s RA residence (not pictured) g. Baab-Uthman b. Affan RA h. Ahlul Suffa Residence i. Juwayriya’s RA residence (not pictured) j. Rumla’s RA residence (not pictured) k. Saffiya’s RA residence (not pictured) l. Baab-ul-Rahma m. Abu Bakr’s RA residence n. Sa’d b. Abi Waqaas RA residence (not pictured) o. al-Abbas b. Abdul Muttalib RA (Prophet’s SAWS uncle) residence p. Jafar b. Abi Sadiq RA residence Source: The Madinah Research & Study Centre, Al Madinah Al Munawara

Why is stoning and honour killings common? Answer You enquire regarding stoning and honour killings. Sharī’ah promotes modesty. Every sound religion promotes modesty. From amongst the most immoral and indecent acts is adultery and fornication. The abundance of immodesty is resulting in young girls merely in their teens falling pregnant. Adolescent boys are raping innocent girls in the schools and colleges. The aftermath of all this is that illegitimate children are being deprived of parenthood. Likewise, the large quantity of fornication and adultery is resulting in marriages breaking up, children being deprived and families falling apart. Even the other scriptures condemned adultery. To the extent that in Christianity, adultery is synonymous to infidelity. If this is the condemnation and consequences of such actions, then surely they need to be impeded. If the current laws are effective, humane and a deterrent, then consider the following statistics: Somewhere in America, a woman is raped every 2 minutes, according to the U.S. Department of Justice. Estimated number of men actually raped each year, according to the Dept. of Justice: 93,000 Number of women raped in 2007 under the UCR definition: 91,874 Number of sexual assaults in 2007–which includes rapes the FBI leaves out–according to the National Crime Victimization Survey: 248,300 Dept. of Justice estimate of how many women are actually raped each year: 300,000 [PDF] Number of arrests for rape in 2007 (UCR): 23,307 Average number of rapes to every murder committed annually: 5 to 1.[ii] According to a news report on BBC One presented in 12 November 2007, there were 85,000 women raped in the UK in the previous year, equating to about 230 cases every day.[iii] What is more barbaric? Stoning or having a rape case every two minutes? The western countries have a thousand laws to combat crime, rape and adultery; is crime and violence decreasing or increasing? The facts clearly show the current laws are not successful in impeding the criminals. Neither are the women feeling secure in such countries nor are the crimes decreasing. Surely these countries need to rethink what they consider barbaric. When such laws are a failure, one has to admit that the Sharī’ah has implemented the most effective deterrent. Imagine being stoned? The fear, embarrassment, pain and disgrace will clearly make a person rethink before he makes an evil move. Likewise, imagine watching somebody getting stoned to death. The fear, fright and terror experienced from such a scene will surely result in flashback. The moment the thought of committing adultery transpires in one’s mind, the flashbacks of witnessing someone being stoned will detain and seize these evil intentions. Hence, stoning to death is a legal corporal punishment in Sharī’ah for committing adultery. There are stringent conditions for this corporal punishment to be established. For stoning to be carried out, it has to be decreed by a Muslim judge in an Islamic state. If stoning is being carried out without the correct protocol, it will be illegal and condemned by Sharī’ah, even if it was done in the name of Shari’ah. There are many actions performed in the name of many beliefs, philosophies and groups, does that mean it is endorsed by that philosophy or group? Approximately 4-5 people were stoned in the time of the Prophet salallahu alaihi wasallam.[iv] And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Mawlana Faraz Ibn Adam, Student Darul Iftaa UK Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. www.daruliftaa.net

Question: Why do females get half the inheritance amount of males? Also, why are stoning, honour killings so prevalent today in the name of Islam? Were they common in the time of the Prophet salallahu alaihi wasallam? Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. You enquire why females receive half the inheritance of their male counterparts. One must understand that the laws of inheritance are by Divine order. As Muslims, our attitude to a divine decree is simply to submit. The point of satisfaction is in the fact that Allah is al-Hakīm (The All Wise). Every decree of Almighty Allah has innumerable benefits and wisdoms which we can never fathom or comprehend. Besides the many benefits in each individual law, the common thread in all the laws of Islam is that they consider the realities of life. There is no room for emotions in these Laws. The Laws of Allah are not based on emotions. They are founded on the best possible course for humanity to follow. Each law, the law itself and its ramifications are beneficial for everyone and everything the law applies to. From the day a woman is born to the day she passes away, she is never responsible to earn her own living. From birth to her marriage, her father or guardian is responsible to provide for her. After marriage, her husband is responsible to provide for her. When she gets old, her children are responsible to look after her. On the other hand, a male is tasked with providing and looking after his whole family. If the male did not receive double the share, this would be injustice on the male. Everybody would be asking the question why Islam does injustice on the males as Islam tasks the male to provide and maintain the family, yet Islam does not channel to him the possible funds needed to uphold this responsibility. For example, if a father passed away and his estate was worth £100,000. The son will receive £66,666.66 and the daughter will receive £33,333.33. The son may have to spend almost the entire amount in maintaining his sister and family. Whereas, the daughter who inherited, she will not be obliged to spend a single pence. She can keep the entire amount to herself. What is better? Receiving £66,666.66 and spending it all on others or receiving £33,333.33 and having the privilege of keeping it all to yourself? And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Mawlana Faraz Ibn Adam, Student Darul Iftaa UK Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. www.daruliftaa.net

Question and Answer: Q. is it Ok for a Woman to Wait at a Jamaat Khana for Females For her Lift Whilst she is in a State of Menses?(Query published as received) A. She can wait in a Jamaat Khana/Musalla in the state of menstruation. A Jamaat Khana is not the same as a Musjid and purity is not a precondition for entering, unlike a Musjid where it is compulsory to be clean. And Allah Knows Best Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed Confirmation: Mufti Ebrahim Desai

Q. can a woman in haidh (menstruation) touch a musalla (prayer mat) just to fold and put it away? I’m asking this because, I was in a situation where I had touched the musalla after it was washed and my mother-in-law said that I was not supposed to touch while in haidh and that she would have to wash the musalla again.(Query published as received) A. It is permissible for a woman in menstruation to touch the prayer mat. This does not make the prayer mat or anything else she touches impure. And Allah Knows Best Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Question:I got married one year ago but now my wife and I are having arguments and at times we don’t talk although we really love each other. We both end up crying after the episode is over, please advise us how to overcome this. Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. Love is an amazing sensation. Only one who has tasted love can appreciate this statement. Love has the potential to make a cold night into a hot summer’s day. Love has the capacity to make the bitter turn sweet. The connection between a husband and wife is also an unexplained phenomenon. The warmth and love between the two can be felt a mile away. The spouses can almost telepathically sense each other. The heart of a human is constantly changing. We are affected by every situation. Our mind frames are influenced by the most trivial of issues. A bad day at work can induce an argument. Bubbling frustration sometimes erupts unintentionally at home. A spouse’s actions may be translated incorrectly by the other spouse, resulting in a negative response. Man’s weakness is just so apparent. One of the most effective solutions to all situations is to simply think for two seconds before doing an action. Think with a clear mind: Will this be of benefit? What will the repercussions of this action be? Always keep one’s emotions under control. Allah the Almighty has placed intelligence in the mind and emotions in the heart. The head rests above the heart. We need to govern our emotions with the intelligence we have been bestowed with. Think, think and think! Despite all the electrifying love flowing between a couple, like all bonds, a marriage can become rusty at times. It needs to be oiled regularly. Every marriage has ups and downs. A marriage has to be maintained and worked upon constantly. Just like houses are cleaned daily to keep them sparkling and neat, a marriage needs constant attention to keep it sparkling. One has to have charisma coupled with a sense of diplomacy. Love and romance for a marriage are like water and sunlight for a plant. A marriage needs to be soaked in love and romance. Show your love to your spouse upon leaving and entering your home. The Prophet salallahu alaihi wasallam would kiss his wife upon departing her company. Bring a gift for your wife unexpectedly. Dress for her in what she likes seeing you in. Take her out somewhere romantic. Express your love constantly in different phrases, gesture and signals. Always assess each situation independently. Do not haste in making judgements. Keep a cool mind and disposition. Do not sleep until you and your wife are happy with one another. Remember to think twice before reacting to anything. Your spouse is a human; she is prone to mistakes. Many a time the husband is in error. We have to be just and fair. Be man enough to control your emotions and change situations. Allah shower your marriage with perpetual love and blessings. Amin And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Mufti Faraz al- Mahmudi jamiat.org.za

What’s in a Bottle? In the early days of Islam when wine and alcohol where first prohibited, Rasulullah Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam also prohibited drinking from those bottles and containers which were associated with alcoholic products. As is prevalent in today’s society, wine and liquor bottles have a certain design to them and one looking at the bottle immediately associates its contents with alcohol. Similarly, in the time of Rasulullah Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam, certain vessels were associated with alcohol. Rasulullah Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam prohibited drinking from these vessels or using them for any purpose even if non-alcoholic. As time passed by and wine became non-existent in the holy lands, the association these containers had with alcohol faded from public perception. Rasulullah Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam then allowed its use as its association with alcohol no longer remained. Today this Ummah is facing a similar unfortunate situation. Juices are being marketed and branded as though they are alcoholic drinks and bottled in bottles that are directly associated with alcohol. The mere sight of these bottles which were once offensive to a Muslim is now to be found in the fridges of Muslim homes. “Islamic” magazines are advertising these products as though they are have been sanctioned by the Shariah. In one Hadith, Rasulullah Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam has stated, “Whoever believes in Allah and the Last Day; let him never sit at a table where alcohol is served.” (Ahmad) Hazrat Anas Radhiyallahu Anhu has reported that Rasulullah Sallallaahu Alayhi Wa Sallam has cursed ten people in regards to alcohol: The one who produces it, the one who instructs its production, the one who drinks it, the one who transports it, the one to who receives it, the one who serves it, the one who sells it, the one who benefits from its profit, the one who buys it, and the one for whom it is bought. (Tirmizi) If anything becomes abundantly clear from these Ahadith, it is that anything even remotely linked to alcohol is condemned in Islam. The Islamic system has been designed that the very sight of alcoholic products offends a believer’s heart. Introducing such drinks into our homes only serves to appease a conscience that craves to emulate the Kaafir system of wining and dining and to desensitize our children towards the distastefulness of alcohol. Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians 223 Alpine Road, Overport, Durban

Prince Mohammad bin Abdulaziz international Airport in Madinah The first batch of Indian pilgrims arrived here today to perform Hajj of this year (Shawwal 1434 / September 2013).

Achieving a Strong Marriage Bond Marriage is considered an 'ibaadah, an act that is pleasing to Allah Ta’aala. It is in accordance with His commandments that husbands and wives love each other and help one another to rear their children as true servants of Allah Ta’aala. Most spouses start out with hopes and rosy dreams; truly committed to making their marriage work. However, as the reality of living with a less than perfect spouse lurks in, and as the pressures of life builds, many individuals do not find as much satisfaction in their relationships. All marriages change over time. However, with hard work and dedication, people can keep their marriages strong and enjoyable. How is it done? What does it take to create a long-lasting, satisfying marriage? Researches indicate that the most successful marriages share some key characteristics. These are some of the characteristics that researchers have found to be common in successful marriages. Let's look at each of these factors. CHARACTERISTICS OF HAPPY AND SATISFYING MARRIAGES 1. POSITIVITY Successful spouses have far more positive than negative interactions. If there is too much negativity — criticizing, demanding, name-calling, holding grudges, etc. — the relationship will suffer. However, if there is never any negativity, it probably means that frustrations and grievances are not getting air time and unresolved tension is accumulating inside one or both partners. The key is balance between the two extremes. There are many ways to foster positivity in a marriage. Being affectionate, truly listening to each other, taking joy in each other's achievements and being playful are just a few examples of positive interactions that help make marriages successful. 2. EMPATHY Another characteristic of happy marriages is empathy. Empathy means understanding a person's perspective by putting oneself in his or her shoes. Many researchers have shown that empathy is important for relationship satisfaction. People are more likely to feel good about their marriage and spouse if their partner expresses empathy towards them. Husbands and wives are more content in their relationships when they perceive that their spouses truly understand their thoughts and feelings. 3. COMMITMENT Successful marriages involve both spouses' commitment to the relationship. When two people are truly dedicated to making their marriage work, despite the unavoidable challenges and obstacles that come, they are much more likely to have a relationship that lasts. Husbands and wives who only focus on themselves and their own desires are not as likely to find joy and satisfaction in their relationships. However, when spouses are committed to investing in their marriage and are willing to sacrifice some of their own preferences for the good of the relationship, they usually have high-quality marriages. 4. ACCEPTANCE One of the most basic needs in a relationship is acceptance. Everyone wants to feel valued and respected. When people feel that their spouses truly accept them for who they are, they are usually more secure and confident in their relationships. Often, there is conflict in marriage because partners cannot accept the individual preferences of their spouses and try to demand change from one another. When one person tries to force change from another, he or she is usually met with resistance. However, research has shown that change is much more likely to occur when spouses respect differences and accept each other unconditionally. Basic acceptance is vital to a happy marriage. 5. MUTUAL LOVE AND RESPECT Perhaps the most important component of successful marriages are love and respect for each other. This may seem very obvious — why would two people get married to someone whom they did not love and respect? The fact is, as time passes and life becomes increasingly complicated, the marriage often suffers as a result. It is all too easy for spouses to lose touch with each other and neglect the love and romance that once came so easily. It is vital that husbands and wives continue to cultivate love and respect for each other throughout their lives. If they do, it is highly likely that their relationships will remain happy and satisfying. Paramount of all, marriage must be based on the teachings of the Noble Qur'an and Sunnah of the Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam. InshaaAllah, married couples will not only gain blessing and harmony from their marriages but also benefits and rewards in the Hereafter. Ameen. www.islaaminfo.co.za

SELF-APPRAISAL When one is insulted or criticized, the natural nafsaani reaction is anger which in turn demands retaliation. The anger is the effect of pride. However, if one reflects for a few brief moments in an endeavour to fathom one’s own moral condition, one will not fail to discern that the anger and the crave to react are generally not justified. Once a man was abusive to the Sahaabi, Hadhrat Abu Zar Ghifaari (radhiyallahu anhu). He responded: “Between Jannat and myself there is a deep valley. If I successfully traverse that (dangerous) valley, then, By Allah!,I have no concern for what you are saying. But, if Allah Ta’ala prevents me from traversing the valley, then I am worse than what you have said of me.” Also, when someone insults you or you are told that he/she has made gheebat of you, then reflect on your own sins. Everyone has some skeletons in the cupboard and some hidden cans of worms on which Allah Ta’ala, Who is Saatirul Uyoob (The Concealer of sins) has cast a veil to protect us from being humiliating. Mujlisul Ulama of South Africa

Question and Answer: Q. Please advise whether it is true that we are not allowed to blow on the food to cool it down? If so, please advise what is the source of this? (Question published as received) A. It is discouraged to blow on food to cool it down. If the food or drink is hot, it should be allowed to cool down naturally before partaking of it. In the Musannaf of Imam Abu Bakr bin Abi Shaybah, which is a famous compilation of Hadith, it is recorded that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) prohibited blowing in food and drink. (Hadith #: 24658) And Allah Knows Best Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed Confirmation: Mufti Ebrahim Desai Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Name your Children with Good Names Sayyiduna Abud Dardaa’ (Radiyallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “You will be called on the day of Qiyamah by your names and the names of your fathers, so keep good names” (Abu Dawood, Hadith #:4948) The above Hadith emphasizes that parents should give good Islamic names to their children. A good name is that which has a good meaning and also gives the child an Islamic identity. Unfortunately, it has become a trend these days to give unusual names to children which lack good meaning and in many cases, lacks an Islamic identity. Such names are preferred merely due them sounding “fancy” or “unique” or even worse, due to it being the name of a fashion icon or actor/actress. Parents should consider the Islamic well-being of the children and ensure that they give their children appropriate names. Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians 223 Alpine Road, Overport, Durban

Question and Answer: Q. Please can you send me something regarding the implications of a Muslim having tattoos on their body from an Islamic perspective? (Question published as received) A. It is forbidden for Muslims to draw tattoos or have tattoos drawn. Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has cursed the one who draws tattoos and the one who has tattoos drawn on himself. It is narrated on the authority of Ibn Mas’ood (Radiallahu Anhu) that he said, “May Allah curse those who tattoo, have (their bodies) tattooed, those who request their eyebrows to be plucked and those who create gaps between their teeth. They are changing what Allah has created. Why should I not curse those whom Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) has cursed? (Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith #: 5943). And Allah Knows Best Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Library of Masjid Nabawi The library was established in 1352 AH. It consists of study halls and over 60,000 books. One hall consists of books on the science of hadith and one hall has books on the science of Tafseer. Then there books on Fiqh (Islamic jurisprudence) and Usool ul Fiqh (Principals of Islamic Jurisprudence). They are ordered under the headings of the four famous schools of thought; Hanafi, Maliki, Shafi'ee and Hambali. There are history books, manuscripts, journals and periodicals. (Pictorial History of Madinah Munawwarah by Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Abdul Ghani)

erm just thought of pointing out a few mistakes in the post: "one of the recently married young brother started" - brothers "beloved Syed Maulana who has patented the discussed of" - discussion of "I personally know of Ulamah and Mahaykh" - Mashaykh "Neglect of the first wife is separate matter altogether" - a separate

Problems, Problems, Problems… By Sister S Bemath PROBLEMS. . . how we hate them! The time and energy we waste, stewing over problems instead of tackling them cheerfully and constructively, recognising them as the growth points of life and progress. Life can expose us to a series of problems. Problems evoke in us a great deal of emotional pain, such as sorrow, fear, anger, anxiety, sadness etc. These are uncomfortable emotions. Do we want to moan about them or solve them? Discipline is the basic set of tools we require to solve life's problems... it is in this whole process of meeting and solving problems that life has its meaning. Problems are the cutting edge that distinguishes success and failure. Problems are what cause us to grow mentally and spiritually. Without growth, we're doomed to stay as we have always been. Wise people learn not to dread problems, but to welcome, expect and tackle problems. Fearing the pain involved causes most to go to any lengths to avoid their problems and the suffering , attempting to escape from or even at times ignoring them by building out the most elaborate fantasies in which to live, sometimes to the total exclusion of reality. A little pain, perhaps, in facing a problem... a little patience, courage, thought and effort to try and solve it – they're preferable to burying it and risk becoming a neurotic cripple who may need psychiatric treatment. In ignoring the problem, we stop growth which we learn from the problems that life brings. Therefore, we avoid real life for the replaced fantasy. When we stop the growth, we also stop the healing we could have attained if we faced our problems and pain with proper responses. As Muslims, we are in direct communication with the Almighty ALLAH. No matter how bad you perceive your situation and your lack of strength is, don't give up! Because, where your strength ends, the grace of ALLAH begins. So, cry your heart to none but ALLAH. Only ALLAH TA'ALA can and will heal you in all possible ways! HE is the only One Who not only Hears and Knows all, but Who can change our situation and give us the patience to deal with our difficulties. Allah, The Most Wise, says: “Remember Me, and I shall remember you; be grateful to Me, and deny Me not.” (Qur'aan 2:152) Life is difficult, and the world is full of troubles, but the sun still shines, and ALLAH'S blessings are everywhere in our lives. Many have complained that “life isn’t fair.” Life consists of examination papers given by Almighty ALLAH to see how much we have learnt in HIS subject called “LIFE”. Sometimes ALLAH tests us so that we can see the rainbow after a stormy rain. If we can’t see the rainbow in this world, then In'Sha'ALLAH we can in the Hereafter. Just be strong in your heart and mind! Furnish it with faith, love, trust, and sincerity for the sake of ALLAH. Make your imagination embroidered with HIS love and light. In'Sha'ALLAH tranquility and contentment will penetrate into our soul. That is when our imagination triumphs over intelligence. Never give up on ALLAH’S MERCY. Doing so is actually tantamount to disbelief. “Truly no one despairs of ALLAH'S soothing Mercy except those who have no faith.” (Qur'aan 12:87) Be it the silence in your life right now or the rumble of the forthcoming storm... you have ALLAH TA'ALA to guide you through! HE sends you hope in the most desperate moments. Don't forget; the heaviest rain comes out of the darkest clouds. Have faith that it shall pass and a sunshine of Sabr (patience) will shine down on you. So, often we associate problems with “the unwanted, difficulty and stress.” We should rather associate them with “lessons, opportunity and growth.” Problems are like washing machines, they twist us, spin us and knock us around, but in the end we come out cleaner, brighter and better than before. Avoiding problems is our attempt to avoid true life's learning opportunities. True emotional and spiritual health comes from acknowledging that life is full of problems. And with this truth, we discover the tools to dealing with these problems. The tools we must discover are found inside discipline. When we develop discipline within every area of our life, we also develop the tools we shall need to successfully confront and overcome problems Insha Allah. Here are few guidelines for problem solving: • Develop the habit of viewing problems optimistically and tackling them creatively. With patience, prayer and supplication, most problems can be overcome. Prayer is the key that unlocks all doors. • Have faith in your ability to solve problems, often while you sleep. Write down what's worrying you before you go to bed, then trust Allah Ta’ala to work on the problem while you sleep. Often an answer comes like a flash in the morning. “Sleep on a problem” is sound common-sense which has worked throughout the ages. • Recognise which problems need to be lived through and which to be worked through. Recognise also that there are no definite answers to every problem and with the passage of time some will evaporate, while others need to be tackled wisely. • Don't suppose that, if you change your circumstances, problems will vanish. Many people think that if this and if that, they would be happy – but every situation has its problems. The secret is to change your attitude towards them. • Place your forehead on the ground and mention ALLAH'S Praises, so that you can obtain true freedom. Let your tears flow in front of HIM and read the supplication of Prophet Yaqoob (Alaihis Salaam), “I only complain of my suffering and grief to ALLAH...” (Qur'aan 12:86) • Write down several possible solutions. If you can't think of any, remember ALLAH, call out HIS name, and ask HIM for help. HE will make a way out when there seems to be no way!!! “…And whosoever fears Allah and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty). And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine. And whosoever puts his trust in Allah, then He will suffice him. Verily, Allah will accomplish his purpose…” (Quran 65: 2-3) Accept your problems. View them positively, creatively and courageously. And, yes, be grateful for them – for, in learning to cope, you'll grow in stature and wisdom. Take the time out every day to thank ALLAH for the blessings in your life – not only will you be overwhelmed because you will never be able to enumerate them, but you will truly recognise ALLAH'S presence in your life. Stay strong and firm because things will get better Insha Allah, it might be stormy now, but it can't rain forever. www.eislam.co.za

As Salaamu Alaikum WaRahmatullaahi Wa Barakhatuhu. The following topics are discussed: 1. POLYGAMY 2. POLYANDRY 3. HIJAB FOR WOMEN 4. WAS ISLAM SPREAD BY THE SWORD? 5. MUSLIMS ARE FUNDAMENTALISTS AND TERRORISTS 6. EATING NON-VEGETARIAN FOOD 7.ISLAMIC METHOD OF SLAUGHTERING ANIMALS APPEARS RUTHLESS 8. NON-VEGETARIAN FOOD MAKES MUSLIMS VIOLENT 9. MUSLIMS WORSHIP THE KAABA 10.NON-MUSLIMS NOT ALLOWED IN MAKKAH 11.PORK FORBIDDEN 12.PROHIBITION OF ALCOHOL 13.EQUALITY OF WITNESSES 14.INHERITANCE 15.HEREAFTER - LIFE AFTER DEATH 16. ALL RELIGIONS TEACH PEOPLE TO BE RIGHTEOUS, THEN WHY FOLLOW ONLY ISLAM? 17. VAST DIFFERENCE BETWEEN ISLAM AND THE ACTUAL PRACTICE OF MUSLIMS 18. NON-MUSLIMS REFERRED AS KAFIRS Please read and pass on to Muslims and Non-Muslims. Was Salaamu Alaikum WaRahmatullaahi Wa Barakhatuhu. www.islaaminfo.co.za Common Questions asked by Non-Muslims.pdf

"And We reveal of the Qur’aan that which is a healing and a Mercy for believers" Medicine, like other sciences, drew it's nourishment from the Quraan and its philosophy of life. And like other sciences, the principal of harmony and balance also worked through and influenced the science of medicine. The whole study of Medicine is also related to the Islamic faith through the injunctions of the Holy Quraan and Hadith of the Holy Prophet concerning hygiene and better and healthy living. In short, the Islamic Shariah has issued directions regarding ablution, cleanliness, general hygiene, dietary habits, healthy foods and many other elements affecting the body and it's health. There is certainly another intimate link between medicine and Islam. The human body is considered to be the formal residence of the soul (Ruh) and therefore closely related to both the spirit and the soul. Thus both soul and spirit, are intimately related to and are dependent upon the physical body of man because the former cannot exist in this world without the latter. Secondly, man has to maintain his outward form as well as his inwardly in a good and healthy condition to exist at all. Therefore the health and care of the body becomes an important matter both for medicine and religion, in order to keep man outwardly and inwardly in a healthy condition. The anatomy and physiology of the human body provided a wide field of study for philosophers, theologians and physicians. Quranic studies further encouraged the study of the human body, it being one of the signs (Aayat) of the Creator. Man being the supreme and noblest creation, the study of his physical body was therefore considered necessary and important for the proper understanding of Allah’s Wisdom. The Quraan has invited man to look into the matter of his own creation in order to find the Wisdom of Allah and to understand the purpose of the whole creation. It is necessary to keep the physical body very healthy so that spirit and soul may also remain healthy in order to achieve spiritual attainment as well as material. Let us briefly examine some of the health regulations prescribed to us by the Quraan and Sunnah: 1) The dietary regulations plays an important role in Islamic medicine. Islam has prohibited certain foods because of their ill-effects, and allowed all other pure, good and clean things. Allah says, "O Believers! Eat of the good and pure things that we have provided for you and render thanks to Allah, if it is (indeed) He whom you worship." (2: 172) As regards the criterion for judging whether a thing is pure or not? It should be noted that all those things are pure which are not unclean according to any principle of Islamic Law, or which are not offensive to good taste or have not universally been regarded as repugnant by cultured people. After stating this general principle with regard to permissible foods, the Quraan specifies the prohibited foods in these words, "He has only forbidden you dead meat and blood and swine flesh and that food over which the name of other than Allah has been invoked" (16 :115) These four things are absolutely forbidden in Islam for reasons known to Allah. However, research on these things have shown that some of them are injurious to human health - as dead meat, blood and swine meat, and some are harmful to moral health as well - flesh of swine, and still others to spiritual health as food over which the name of any other than Allah has been invoked. 2) Alcohol is also prohibited because of it's harmfulness is greater than it's benefits. The physical, moral, social and spiritual evils of intoxicants and gambling are clearly referred to in the Quraan as the filthy work of Shaitaan. 3) The Quraan has also given very useful tips regarding a balanced diet which contains every useful ingredient necessary for the growth and repair of the human body, including protein, fat, calcium, iron, salts etc. The most balanced diet consists of meat, especially roast fat, calf or fish, fresh milk, cheese and fruit. The Quraan makes indirect references to the importance of animal protein in human diet on various occasions. "There came our Messenger to Ibrahim with glad tidings, They said, ‘Peace’. He answered, ‘Peace! and hastened to entertain them with a roasted calf". (11.69). Then the Quraan also mentions the meal of fowls, "And the flesh of fowls, any that they desire". (56:21) Fish is also considered to be food of very high protein and very important for human consumption. The Quraan refers to this fresh food in these words, "It is He who has made the sea to be of service that may you eat thereof flesh that is fresh and tender". (16:14) The Quraan then refers to the importance of animal protein in general in the human diet. "And the castle He created for you, from them you derive warmth and numerous benefits, and their meal you eat". (16:5) The usefulness of fresh milk is stressed in these words. "And in the cattle there is truly a lesson for you. We give you to drink of that which is in their bellies". (23:21) The benefits of fruit as good nourishment is described in these words, "And of the fruit of the date-palm, and grapes, you get out wholesome drink and also good nourishment". (16:67) The Quraan mentions the great medicinal uses of honey for mankind, "And your Lord taught the bee to build it's cells on mountains on trees and inhabitants." (16:68) Honey seems to possess immense medicinal value for various diseases. It is extremely effective and useful for heart diseases and provides top-grade, ready made glucose for body weaknesses. Very good for the eyes, that if used regularly, young people can get rid of their spectacles in a few years. Honey has also been used for preparing and preserving other medicines. Because it does not rot, which is why it is a substitute for alcohol, good for common colds, blood diseases, digestion and so on. In fact the Prophet recommended the use of honey for a great many illnesses. Abdullah Bin Masoud reports Messenger as saying, "Make use of the two remedies, honey and the Quraan". So in short, the ingredients of honey show that it is being useful in these ways: a) As good nourishment. b) As a protective measure c) As a medicine for various kinds of diseases. It's ingredients are calcium, sulphur, carbon, phosphorous, iron, magnesium, chlorine, sodium, potassium and iodine. SurgeryThere is no verse of the Quraan which specifically mentions surgical and anatomical operations as such but by implication and interpretation, a few scholars reported to have taken this verse in this context, "Have we not expanded your breast". (94: 1-3) This is given further support by an incident which occurred during the time of the Prophet’s (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) childhood when two men clothed in white threw him down and opened his belly and searched therein and stretched it apart. There is a possibility the above incident might well have initiated surgical medicine in the early phase of Islamic civilization and might have encouraged many physicians to take the line of medicine. Famous physicians like Ibn Sina, Ibn Al-Quff and so on were encouraged performing surgical operations. ConclusionA little reflection on the Aayats of the Qur’aan will show that the central theme of the Islamic faith – unity – Tawheed covers every aspect of human life and every field of human study. Tawheed is the essence of the science and you cannot proceed even a step forward without referring it in one way or another, because Allah is the starting and finishing point of everything. This is the great distinguishing point between a Muslim scientist and a non-Muslim scientist. Therefore, the former sees everything and all knowledge spring from Allah and must be referred back to Him. http://classicalislamgroup.com/viewpage.php?page=4