ummtaalib

When the Ummah is tested: Causes & Solutions By: Mufti Muhammad Fārūq Meeruti (Rahimahullah) “Verily Allah does not change the condition of a people unless they change it themselves.” (Qur’an 13:11) The Muslim is daily faced by a host of new problems and difficulties. Their lives, property and self-respect is trampled upon and worse than that, their religious matters are tampered and interfered with, their Masjids are under constant threat and are disallowed proper implementation of their Islamic law. Our Blindness Despite this, the Muslim considers these to be chance occurrences or mere coincidences, thus never pausing to even consider the actual cause and reason behind this suffering. At the most, a few concerned souls, who are momentarily stirred by this state of affairs, call up some fancy conference, pass a few vague resolutions and disappear back into oblivion, contented that they have fulfilled their duties towards Islam. The Diagnosis A dire need exists for us to study the Qur’an and Hadith and thereby realize the primary cause for our disgrace and downfall. It is an undisputed axiom of reality that no incident occurs in this universe accidentally. Allah and His Messenger Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam have explained to us in the Qur’an and Hadith: “And whatever calamity befalls you, it is due to your own doings and Allah forgives many of your shortcomings.” (Qur’an 42:30) “Corruption has spread on water and land due to the doings of mankind in order that Allah make them taste the penalty of some of their doings. Perhaps they may retract (from their disobedience).” (Qur’an 30:41) Gratefulness Proper appreciation of Allah’s bounties is the correct utilization of these favours. To utilize life, health, faculties of sight, hearing, feeling, thinking, locomotion, finances, status and position, all for the pleasure of Allah and in accordance with His commandments is true appreciation of Allah’s bounties. The anti-thesis of this is ungratefulness, which invites the wrath and displeasure of Allah. Heavenly Blessings (Barakah) Adopting a life of Taqwa (piety) i.e. fulfilling all the commands of the Shariah and abstaining from the prohibitions is the cause of blessings descending from the heavens. “If the people of the locality had believed and adopted Taqwa (piety), We would have opened upon them the blessings of the heavens and the earth; but they denied and falsified, thus We seized them due to their actions.” (Qur’an, 7:96) The Consequences of Sin With regards to the verse, “And whatever calamity befalls you, it is due to your own doings.” (Qur’an 42:30), Rasulullah (Allah’s peace be upon him) explained the tafsīr of this verse to Hadrat Ali (may Allah’s be pleased with him) thus: “O Ali! whatever calamity befalls you: illness, affliction or any worldly calamity, it is the earning of your own hands.” Once Asmā bint Abi Bakr Radhiyallahu Anha experienced a headache. She exclaimed, “This is due to my sins.” (Durr al-Manthūr, Ibn Kathīr) Our Condition Let us now examine our lifestyles. Salaah, which has been described as the criterion between Imaan and Kufr (disbelief), how much does it feature in the life of the Muslims? How many adhere to the other basic requirements of Islam such as fasting, zakat, and hajj? On the other hand, consider the prohibitions of Islam, how many Muslims are engrossed in these day and night? How many have adopted these as part of their lifestyle? Liquor, Interest, Adultery, Bribery & Corruption, Disobedience to Parents, Enjoining Right and Forbidding Evil, Oppression and Injustice, Dishonouring the Ulama etc. are being perpetrated by Muslims on a daily basis. Our Example How cruel have we been upon ourselves that due to our sins we are constantly involving ourselves in disasters and calamities? At the same time, we continuously lament and wail away at our pathetic condition. Our example is like that of a person suffering from diarrhoea and yet continues to take laxatives, complaining all the time of diarrhoea. What could be said to such a fool? Oppressive Leaders In a similar way, today we complain about the oppression of our leaders, whereas these leaders have been appointed over us due to our transgressions. Rasulullah (Allah’s peace be upon him) said: Just as you (i.e. your actions) are, so will your rulers be. It is a popular adage: “Your actions are your rulers.” In other words, [based upon] your actions will your rulers treat you. This is the example of the Muslim Ummah. If we are disobedient to Allah, He appoints the weakest of nations upon us. They torture and oppress us most mercilessly. Our only salvation is by turning to Allah in sincere regret and repentance. Then no nation – not even the so called superpowers – will have the courage to stare at us! Time and again, we are crushed by disasters and calamities. Our laments, complaints, and wailing never end. Yet, when our shortcomings are pointed out to us, we remain totally indifferent and heedless. Never have we even attempted to bring about any reform within ourselves. Never have we attempted to avoid those destructive sins and crimes that are the direct sources of our misery and suffering. It is most astonishing that when an ordinary doctor warns of some epidemic, we are hasty to inoculate ourselves. Yet, when Allah and His Rasul (Allah’s peace be upon him) are consistently guiding us towards our success and warning us against our destruction (with the greatest of concern and sincerity) we remain totally unmoved and heedless, and we plunge headlong into those very pitfalls of destruction. Our only road to success and glory is total obedience to Allah and His Rasul (Allah’s peace be upon him) and following step-by-step the path tread by our pious predecessors.

6 Easy Ways to Stay Healthy World Health Day (7 April 2019) Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah Radhiyallahu Anhu narrated that Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, “Indeed [among] the first things a person will be asked about on the Day of Qiyamah is that it will be said to him, ‘Did We not make your body healthy and give you cool water to drink?” (Tirmidhi) 1. Feed your soul We are commanded by Allah the Almighty, to pray five times a day. However, apart from the blessings and benefit we gain from Salaah in the Hereafter, does it have health benefits as well? According to an article, during Salaah when you go into sujood, extra blood flows to your brain. Extra blood supply to the skin on your face helps prevent diseases, drains the sinuses and makes it less likely for you to get bronchitis. When a person breathes normally, only two thirds of the capacity of the lung is exhaled out and the remaining one third remains in the lung as a residual air. During sujood, the abdominal visra press against the diaphragm. The latter presses against the lower part of the lungs and the lower lobes. When you breathe during sujood, the remaining one third residual air is aired out, helping your lungs remain in a healthy state. As Muslims, we do not pray with the intention of gaining these health benefits, but rather, to worship the Almighty Allah. These benefits are mere side dishes, while worshiping and getting closer to Allah is our main dish. 2. Feed your body “Eat of the good things which We have provided for you.” (2:173) It is established in the medical practice that we must have a balanced diet with all the right amounts of carbs, proteins, vitamins and minerals etc. in order to help our systems function to their optimal abilities. We also know that eating excessively can cause numerous diseases such as diabetes, vascular diseases, stroke, heart attack etc., and that moderation is the key. “Eat and drink, but avoid excess”. (20: 81) 3. Feed your mind Challenge your brain. Mental activity not only improves your intelligence, but your brain is the centre of everything in your body. If it is healthy, then you are less at risk to attract diseases. The first word revealed in the Quran was “Iqra” which means “read”. Allah is sending us a direct message. We are encouraged to read, read, read! We should read every and anything we can get our hands on, as long as its halal. We should be learning from the cradle to the grave. While what we deem traditionally as Islamic knowledge is at the forefront of what we should know, it is useful for us to realise that Allah is the creator of all things. So, when we are at school and are learning about plateaus and volcanoes in geography, or about protons, neutrons and electrons in chemistry, we are learning about the world in which Allah created us and we should not disregard the importance of this knowledge rather as Muslims we become more aware of the majesty of Allah’s power and grandeur. 4. Feed your heart Research has shown that when you smile, your body releases endorphins which automatically make you happier, and in a brighter mood. Smiles are like high-fives to your immune system; your whole body thanks you just for smiling. The endorphins released during a smile also act as natural pain killers, so when you’re in physical, emotional or mental anguish, try smiling and see the difference it makes! Smiling is Sunnah as well! Our beloved Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, “Your smiling in the face of your brother is considered charity.” (Tirmidhi) 5. Feed your relationships The Prophet Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, “The best of you is the best to his family and I am the best amongst you to my family”. (Tirmidhi) In Islam, family matters. They are the people who will be there for you no matter what happens. They love you unconditionally and we all have a duty to keep our family relations in good order. We are taught to treat our parents with respect and to treat our children with kindness while leading them on the right path of Allah. Having good relationships with our family reduces stress and confusion which at times ages us and makes us unhealthy. We need to be positive and mend all broken relationships in order to have a truly successful and healthy life. 6. Feed your emotions Contrary to popular belief, emotions are not a sign of weakness. It is actually a strength, in that it allows us to handle every and any type of situation thrown at us. We are not mere robots and we need to embrace that. Knowing ourselves allows us to embrace ourselves for who we are and to accept the way we feel. Emotions are given their due place of importance in all Islamic teachings as fundamental elements of the human soul. Islam teaches moderation in everything, aiming to create equilibrium so that one is always at peace with one’s self, the universe, and most importantly, Allah. In Islam, the concept of managing emotions is a pretty easy and simple one. The whole concept sums up in two easy points: looking at the people below us in worldly matters and looking at the people above us in religious matters. This allows us to be focused and content with what we have, and to know where we are headed, rather than shy away from what we experience or feel inadequate about what we do possess. Staying healthy can be really easy. All we need to do is stay positive and implement these few steps and we will, Inshallah, be on our way to a more healthy lifestyle! By Sister Nasmira Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Q. Does the passing of wind from the front passage of a woman break her Wudhu? This happens sometimes. (Question published as received) A. The passing of wind through the front passage of a female (Vaginal flatulence) does not break the wudhu. (Maraaqil Falaah 1/38) And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best Mufti Ismaeel Bassa Confirmation: Mufti Ebrahim Desai (The answer hereby given is specifically based on the question asked and should be read together with the question asked. Islamic rulings on this Q&A newsletter are answered in accordance to the Hanafi Fiqh unless otherwise stated.) Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Q: What is the Islamic perspective on modelling, photography and photoshoots in Islam? Is it Haraam or is it permissible for a male or female to earn a living as a model and appear in fashion shows? A: Working as a model and appearing in fashion shows is totally haraam in Islam as it incorporates a host of activities which contravene the laws of Shari'ah. Below we will explain some of the wrongs and evils tied to this profession: 1. Modelling and fashion shows generally aim to promote the latest styles and designs in fashion. Hence, in an effort to boost their market and make their new fashions appealing, every effort is made to cater for the demands of their clientèle. Nudity and lewd conduct, wine and music, intermingling of men and women etc. are but a few of the many wrongs found in such gatherings. 2. Photography and videoing are an integral part of modelling. Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: إن أشد الناس عذابا عند الله يوم القيامة المصورون (صحيح البخاري 2/880 ، صحيح لمسلم 2/201) Those involved in picture-making will be subjected to the worst forms of punishment on the day of Qiyaamat. (Bukhari 2/880, Muslim 2/201) 3. The Deen of Islam is a Deen which rests on the bedrock of simplicity and hayaa (shame and modesty) in all spheres of a person's life. Whether relating to his domestic, social or economic life, Islam strongly advocates adopting the values of simplicity and hayaa (shame and modesty) to the highest levels. One is thus required to display simplicity and hayaa in his/her dressing, behavior and conduct among people. The modest clothing that Islam commands a woman to wear even when she is in the confines of her home diametrically opposes the body-hugging and revealing clothing promoted by the western culture. Apart from this, the one modelling for a photoshoot or walking down the catwalk - at the time when the music is being played and the videoing is taking place - is required to show off and make an expression of his/her beauty in such clothing. This conduct and behaviour opposes the very core of the Islamic teachings. Islam instructs one to refrain from boastfulness and pride at all times and to adopt humility in all facets of life. Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: لا يدخل الجنة من كان في قلبه مثقال ذرة من كبر (ترمذي رقم 1999) The one who has an iota of pride will never enter paradise. 4. Most of the time, the clothing promoted in modelling is of such a nature that it allows a woman's satar and many parts of her body to be either exposed or discernible. At times, the woman modelling is required to model in unisex clothing or clothing worn by men, whereas the Hadith has condemned and severely cursed a woman that dresses like a man and vice versa. The Hadith has similarly cursed women who reveal and expose parts of their bodies before non-mahram men in a seductive manner with the aim of luring them towards themselves. In modelling, all these wrongs are clearly visible. When this is the grave condition of people who attract the divine wrath of Allah Ta'ala, we can well imagine the condition of all those who congregate at fashion shows to promote such wrongs and to view such women. Below are the Ahaadith that warn us of the serious consequences of such sins. عن ابن عباس رضي الله عنهما قال لعن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم المتشبهين من الرجال بالنساء والمتشبهات من النساء بالرجال رواه البخاري وأبو داود والترمذي والنسائي وابن ماجه والطبراني (الترغيب والترهيب رقم 3139) It is reported from Hadhrat ibn Abbaas (radhiyallahu anhuma) that Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) had cursed those men who emulate women and those women who emulate men in their dressing, etc. عن أبي هريرة قال قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم صنفان من أهل النار لم أرهما قوم معهم سياط كأذناب البقر يضربون بها الناس ونساء كاسيات عاريات مميلات مائلات رؤوسهن كأسنمة البخت المائلة لا يدخلن الجنة ولا يجدن ريحها وإن ريحها ليوجد من مسيرة كذا وكذا. (مسلم 2/383) Hadhrat Abu Hurairah (Radiyallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “There will be two groups (in my ummat) who will be punished in Jahannum whom I have not yet seen (i.e. they will emerge after my demise). One group will carry whips with them, resembling the tails of cattle, with which they will (oppressively) lash the people. The second group will be those women who despite wearing clothes will still be naked (i.e. they will wear tight fitting or transparent clothing). They will attract men to themselves, and they themselves will be inclined towards them. Their heads will resemble the humps of the Bukhti camels (i.e. they will wear buns which will be high like camel humps). They will neither enter Jannah nor smell its fragrance, despite its fragrance being perceivable from a great distance away.” 5. Islam views women as being invaluable and extremely precious. Islam has thus exalted them, making them the queens of their homes. They are instructed to remain within the confines of their homes where all their needs will be fulfilled and taken care of by the men. Men have been tasked with the responsibility of fulfilling the needs of their wives and families and thus they have been commanded to leave the home in order to earn a living. The western culture has dragged women out of their homes under the pretext of gender equality and made them shoulder the obligations and responsibilities of men. In this way, apart from having to play her own role in life (cook, tend to the children, see to the house chores, etc), she also has to play the role of the man and therefore carries a double burden. Hence, we see that the west, by dragging women out of their homes into the market places, have reduced the position of women from a queen to a slave who has to serve all and sundry. This is nothing but a plan to take advantage of women, thereby stripping them of their respect and dignity. How many women are robbed of their chastity and respect in the work place by men who manipulate them and take advantage of them? In this way, we find that the west has debased and degraded women and reduced them to a mere advertising tool to market their products. Hence, we find that her picture is sold to companies in order to be plastered on mundane items such as toothpaste, soaps, cereals, etc. Accordingly, she is modelled before all and sundry in order to make their product sell in the market. This is nothing but gross injustice towards women. True respect, honour and dignity can only be attained by following the pristine, pure teachings of Islam and the mubaarak sunnah of Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). If we seek honour and respect elsewhere, we will bring nothing but disgrace and humiliation to ourselves. Hazrat Umar (Radiyallahu Anhu) has emphasized: إنا كنا أذل قوم فأعزنا الله بالإسلام فمهما نطلب العز بغير ما أعزنا الله به أذلنا الله (حاكم #207) "We were the most disgraced of people. Allah Ta'ala then gave us honour through Islam. If we ever seek honour in something besides that through which Allah Ta'ala has honoured us (Islam), Allah Ta'ala will disgrace us." Hence, from the abovementioned discussion, the severe Deeni harms and consequences for the one who undertakes modelling or even participates in a modelling show as a spectator are quite clear. And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best. Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

Question: If a lady has a miscarriage after 7 weeks and then bleeds after that, will it be regarded as Haidh or Istihaadah? Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. There are three principles and rulings of miscarriage: 1) If the miscarried fetus has any human features such as finger, hand, hair, etc., then the bleeding after the miscarriage is lochia (nifaas). 2) The bleeding after a miscarried embryo (i.e. the stage before any discernible human features) is not lochia (nifaas). 3) If the embryo has no discernible human features, then the bleeding before or after the miscarriage is haidh (menstruation) if it continues for at least 3 days (72 hours) and is preceded by a complete tuhr. If the bleeding is lesser than 3 days or it is before 15 days from the last haidh, then it is Istihadha. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Mirza Mahmood Baig Student Darul Iftaa KSA Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai.

A miser was on his death bed. He told his wife to put all his money in a box and bury it with him. She promised him she would. Soon after that he died. At the funeral her friend asked her if she had done as she had promised. She said yes she had and her friend looked very shocked. She smiled and said, "I deposited all the money in the bank, wrote him a cheque and put it in the box. If he can cash the cheque, he can have the money!"

New Zealand Attack 5 Things Muslims Must Know Everyone has heard of the atrocity that took place in New Zealand on Friday the 8th of Rajab 1440, corresponding to 15th March 2019. The harrowing terrorist attack on two Masājid left at least 50 innocent Muslim worshippers killed and scores more injured. As the dust begins to settle and the world begins to come to terms with this egregious event, below we outline some key lessons to equip Muslims around the world and particularly in the West with the appropriate mind-set moving forward. 1. We have to have Active Patience We begin by offering our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who were killed and injured. We exhort Muslims to embrace active patience (Sabr), rather than passive patience. The latter is to passively accept the news of a calamity because one is left with no choice; whereas active patience is to internally accept and be content that it happened by Allāh’s pre-ordained decree, thereby attaining the fullest reward. On that form of patience, Allah says in the Qur’ān: “We will test you with a certain amount of fear and hunger and loss of wealth and life and fruits. But give good news to the steadfast: Those who, when disaster strikes them, say, ‘We belong to Allāh and to Him we will return.’ Those are the people who will have blessings and mercy from their Lord; they are the ones who are guided.” (2:155-157) All communities are likewise affected by tests of this nature. Shootings at the hands of extremists are sadly commonplace in the world, harming Muslims and non-Muslims. Each and every community has borne a share of this pain. It is, however Allah’s blessing on us that we enjoy comforting hopes of immense rewards and compensation in the hereafter we believe in, something many other communities may not internalise. As Allah says: “…If you feel pain, they too are feeling it just as you are, but you hope for something from Allah which they cannot hope for. Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.” (4:104) New Zealand’s victims were killed in the Masjid, the most beloved place to Allah, on a Friday (Jumu’ah), the most beloved day to Allah, during the Salah beloved to Allāh. May Allah shower them with His immense mercy and elevate their status in Jannah. We also ask Him to give them the best recompense for their families and loved ones. 2. Islamophobia is not new The first point to note is as the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils elucidated precisely, moments after the event: “This massacre today is the product of the ever-increasing Islamophobia and marginalisation of Muslims and is a reminder to all concerned, including political leaders and media commentators, of the horrific consequences that an atmosphere of hate and division can lead to.” Those same white supremacist structures and trends have for decades forced the international community to scapegoat and focus on so-called “Islamic extremism” as a fosterer of terrorism. Countless programmes, schemes, curriculums, conventions and even large-scale military operations have been conducted on the back of this current iteration of the ancient Orientalist myth. Is there an equivalent amount of focus on the driving forces of terrorism committed against Muslims internationally, despite being on the receiving end of most terrorism? Are such anti-Muslim atmospheres and catalysts being criminalised in the same way? Clearly not. 3. We fear only Allah Despite the first point above, we should not allow fear to penetrate our hearts and reside therein. Such fear is of the worst enemies of man and is a sensation that can destroy them even before anything transpires. Apart from natural, temporary fear, we as Muslims should strive to drive out every other fear existing in our hearts save that for Allah the Almighty: “Those to whom people said, ‘The people have gathered against you, so fear them.’ But that merely increased their Iman and they said, ‘Allāh is enough for us and the Best of Guardians.’” (3:173) We should never allow our emotions to take control of our reactions. On the one hand, we should not behave as if we were anticipating such events in order to continue mourning. Some Muslims treat mourning as an objective and presume that the more we mourn, the better and this absolutely wrong. 4. They are not all the same We should not presume, that all white non-Muslims approve of or celebrate this crime, or allow our words or reactions to emit such an assumption. Yes, there are indeed white supremacists, Christian extremists, Neo-Nazis and others today who hold considerable jealousy and ancient hatred for Islam and Muslims, that has precipitated in acts and policies of barbarism for hundreds of years. But just as there is a long tradition of hatred of Islam and Muslims in western Europe, there have also been a number of enlightened thinkers, policy makers and average citizens who opposed this shameful history, who are neutral (if not warm to Islam) and desire justice for all—including Muslims. In the Qur’an, Allah confirms this diversity and cultivates in us this lens of justice when forming our presumptions about members of wider society: “And among the People of the Scripture is he who, if you entrust him with a great amount [of wealth], he will return it to you. And among them is he who, if you entrust him with a [single] silver coin, he will not return it to you unless you are constantly standing over him [demanding it]. That is because they say, “There is no blame upon us concerning the unlearned.” They tell a lie against Allah while they know [it].” (3:75) 5. Now is the time to reach out We should utilise this challenge as an opportunity to give Da’wah to non-Muslims. Many are now sympathising with Muslims, others want to know more about Islam; why we gather for sermons and Allah’s worship on Fridays, why we are calling those killed ‘martyrs’ and why we strengthen one another as to their going to a ‘better destination’ despite the grave worldly losses. Now is the opportune time to address this curiosity. We ask Allah to forgive us and those who preceded us in faith and to shower his mercy and forgiveness on the victims of this horrific atrocity and all of those killed unjustly around the world. Ameen. https://jamiat.org.za/new-zealand-attack-7-things-muslims-must-know/ Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Wa'alaykumus salaam warahmatullah dear sister Safiyah In order to help you insha-allah we will need your habits in menstruation and the purity between menstruation. Do you have a record of the dates before the problem started? If you do then let us know and we will contact you

Yes one day is 24 hours so from Monday 6pm to Tuesday 6 pm is one day and yes exact amount should be noted

Keeping a record of your menstrual cycle is absolutely essential because many rulings depend on it. It is extremely important to keep a record of the exact time and date when bleeding begins and stops. In cases where habits become irregular and problems arise, it is keeping a record which saves a woman from unnecessary hardship of rulings such as having to perform a Ghusl for every Salaah. A simple calendar can be quite sufficient though nowadays it is quite easy to keep a record with various apps which are easily available. Attached are different types of charts you can print out. Yearly Menstruation Record Chart.docx Menstruation Recording Chart.docx

Part Forty Seven ‘Uthmaan bin Mawhab (rahimahullah) narrates the following: On one occasion, a person from Egypt arrived in Makkah Mukarramah and performed haj. While in Makkah Mukaaramah, he saw a group of people seated and asked, “Who are these people?” They replied, “These are the Quraish.” He then asked, “Who is the most learned amongst them?” They replied, “The most learned among them is Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma).” The Egyptian man thus addressed Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) saying, “O Ibnu ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma)! I wish to ask you regarding something, so please answer my questions.” The man thereafter commenced asking his questions. He asked, “Do you know that Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) fled during the Battle of Uhud?” Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) replied, “Yes.” The man next asked, “Do you know that Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was absent during the Battle of Badr?” Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) replied, “Yes.” Finally, the man asked, “Do you know that Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was absent during the Bay‘ah of Ridwaan and did not participate in it?” Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) replied, “Yes.” As this Egyptian was biased against Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) and had ill feelings for him, he exclaimed, “Allahu Akbar!” in happiness, thinking that Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) supported the stance that he held against Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu). Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) then said to him, “Come, let me explain to you the reality of what you are asking about.” Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) then explained: As for Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) fleeing during the Battle of Uhud, I bear witness that Allah Ta‘ala pardoned him and forgave him, together with the other Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) that fled during the Battle of Uhud (as Allah Ta‘ala declared forgiveness in the Qur’aan Majeed for all those who fled during the Battle of Uhud). As for Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) not participating in the Battle of Badr, then the reason is that he was married to the respected daughter of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) and she was ill. Hence, Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) remained behind on the instruction of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) so that he could attend to her and nurse her. Thus Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) said to him, “You will receive the reward of the one who participated in Badr and you will also receive a share in the booty.” As for Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) being absent during the Bay‘ah of Ridwaan, then the reason is that there was no person who was more honored in the sight of the people of Makkah Mukarramah then Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu). Hence, Rasululah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) sent him to speak to the people of Makkah (and inform them that the Muslims had only come to perform ‘umrah and had not come to fight). Had anyone been more honored than Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) would have sent that person instead of him. The Bay‘ah of Ridwaan only took place after Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) went to Makkah on the instruction of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) (as the rumor had spread that the people of Makkah had killed Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu)). Since Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was not present for the bay‘ah, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) gestured with his own blessed right hand saying, “This is the hand of Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu).” Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) then placed his blessed right hand on his left hand and pledged allegiance on behalf of Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu). Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) then addressed the man and said, “Go, and take these answers to your objections against Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) so that you do not harbor ill feelings against him.” (Saheeh Bukhaari #3698)

Part Forty Six According to some narrations, before Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) commenced dictating the letter, he said to Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), “Give me mashura and advise me regarding who I should appoint as the Khalifah, for by Allah, in my sight, you are also worthy of the position of Khilaafah.” Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) replied, “I will write the name of Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu)” and he then commenced writing the letter. However, when he reached the point where the name of Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) had to be written, Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) fell unconscious. Since, Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) knew that Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) wanted Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) to be the next Khalifah, he wrote his name. Thereafter, when Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) regained consciousness, he specified, “Write the name of Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu).” (Hayaatus Sahaabah 2/ 31-33)

Bursting the Bubble As exhausted as she was, she put in the extra effort. “Never mind if I’m tired, I’ll do it for my hubby,” she thought to herself. She wore attractive clothing and jewellery, applied perfume, prepared his favourite meal and dessert and even lit candles, hoping to please her husband by making it a ‘special evening’. Sadly, as soon as he entered, let alone appreciate and admire, and let alone a simple smile and a hug – he didn’t even spare her a second glance! He walked in, glued to his phone, absolutely oblivious to the loving wife who had eagerly awaited him all day. At that moment, her bubble burst and her heart was broken… After reading the above, most people would be quick to condemn the husband’s behaviour and classify him as insensitive, callous and uncaring. Now, consider the following: “Mummy! You know what aapa told us today?” Faatimah excitedly exclaimed as she ran in from madrasah. “Not now Faatimah! I’m busy!” her mother snapped while frantically typing on her phone. “Daddy! See what I made for you with my blocks!” Muhammad said, hopping with happiness. “Can’t you see that I’m on the phone?” his father scolded in irritation. In all the cases above, a person turned to someone that they love, hoping and expecting to receive warmth, love, attention and acceptance, and were instead brushed off abruptly and painfully ignored. Just as a wife feels hurt when her husband treats her indifferently, children similarly feel hurt when their parents treat them in this way. If the husband is guilty, the parents are also guilty and deserving of condemnation. In such a child’s eyes, his parents love their phones more than him as they cannot even put it down for a few minutes to give him attention and love. When the child sees that his parents have bonded with their phones more than with him, it is unsurprising that he develops a fascination with the phone and also wishes to acquire one to bond with. If it is not the phone occupying the parents, then regardless of what it is, it causes hurt and pain to the child – especially when it happens on a continuous basis. As fathers and mothers, we need to understand that parenting is not an eight-to-five occupation where we can knock off for the day, thereafter ignoring all responsibilities of the work place until the next morning. As parents, we can never feel, “I gave my children enough attention today, now it’s my turn to relax and I do not want them to disturb me or bother me.” We are on duty 24/7, and whenever our children come to us, we must show them warmth, love and attention. Failing to do so creates a serious complex in the child, affecting their emotional wellbeing and causing them to develop a dangerous craving for attention. When the wife is displeased with her husband for ignoring her, then due to her intelligence and age, she will be able to express herself with words or even tears. In the case of the child, he does not know how to communicate his need via words. Instead, when he desperately craves the attention and love of his parents, he looks for other ways to gain it – or he will seek the love from outsiders. Children are simple souls and do not understand diplomacy and tact. If a child wants a toy from another child, he will often snatch it without thinking twice. Likewise, when the parents do not give the child the attention that he wants, he tries to ‘snatch’ it from them. This often manifests in the form of naughty behaviour such as breaking things, tantrums, etc., as the child knows no other way to draw his parents’ attention. How sad that the child has to resort to this behaviour simply to make his parents look at him! Unfortunately, this plan backfires. The child is given attention – but in the form of scolding, punishment, etc. and this further entrenches the complex and craving within the child. The parents then lament and complain about the behaviour of their children, failing to realise that it is actually a shout for help from a child who is starving for love and knows no other way to express himself. The next time our child comes to us, even if it may be to show us a flower they picked in the garden, or a ‘picture’ that they scribbled with crayons, or to tell us something silly that their friend told them, or to show us their toy, let us not burst their bubble and break their hearts. Let us take out a few moments to give them our undivided love and attention. uswatulmuslimah

Understanding Tazkiyah By Shaykh-ul-Hadīth, Hadrat Mawlānā Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullāh The Four Parts of Dīn The sole objective of our lives is to acquire the Pleasure of Allāh ta‘ālā, which can only be achieved by following the whole Dīn. The whole Dīn can be categorised into four parts: 1. External actions, which comprise of: a. Performing good actions e.g. Salāh; b. Refraining from sinful actions e.g. backbiting. 2. Internal qualities, which comprise of: a. Purifying the heart from debasing qualities e.g. pride; b. Adorning the heart with praiseworthy traits e.g. humbleness. Allāh ta‘ālā has laid down commands relating to both the external and the internal aspects of Dīn. In both, there are Do’s and Don’ts. For example, performing Salāh, giving Zakāh, fasting and performing Hajj are external actions which must be carried out; whilst causing physical harm, stealing and consuming harām are external actions which must be avoided. Similarly, jealousy, malice and pride are debasing qualities of the heart which are prohibited; whilst Shukr (being grateful to Allāh ta‘ālā) and Sabr (patience) and humbleness are praiseworthy qualities with which every Muslim should strive to adorn his heart. We can therefore conclude that our duties as Muslims are: to carry out good actions; to refrain from sinful actions; to purify the heart from debasing qualities; and to adorn the heart with praiseworthy qualities. All four are termed as Al-A‘māl As-Sālihah (good deeds) and our success lies in carrying them out. Allāh ta‘ālā states: Verily those who believe and do good deeds, for them shall be gardens beneath which rivers flow. That is the great success. (85:11) Tazkiyah and its Importance The process of removing the debasing qualities from the heart and adorning it with the praiseworthy qualities is known as Tazkiyah (soul purification). Through Tazkiyah a person first begins to recognise the shortcomings in his inner traits, such as the existence of pride and miserliness. As a result, he is able to exert effort and replace them with praiseworthy qualities such as humbleness and generosity. Allāh ta‘ālā has emphasised the importance of Tazkiyah in the Glorious Qur’ān by taking oath of seven different things before stating: Undoubtedly, the one who purified it (the soul) has succeeded and the one who soiled it (through kufr, shirk, sin) has certainly failed. (91:9-10) ‘Ilm and Tazkiyah In order to understand the Commands of Allāh ta‘ālā and to carry them out, it is necessary to acquire ‘ilm. Through ‘ilm, we will be able to understand what we are required to do in every situation. Regarding the external actions for example, ‘ilm is required to understand the pre-requisites of Salāh as well as all the necessary aspects within Salāh. Similar is the case for the inner qualities; a person will require ‘ilm to understand which qualities are prohibited and the consequences of having such qualities. For example, our beloved Nabī sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam has informed us that a person with pride equivalent to a mustard seed in his heart will not enter Jannah (without first going in Jahannam). (Abū Dāwūd, At-Tirmidhī, Ibn Mājah). However, without Tazkiyah ‘ilm is not beneficial, as we find that a person has ‘ilm but is unable to practice according to it despite having the desire to do so. For example, a person is aware that offering Fajr Salāh is compulsory, but is unable to leave his bed and go to the masjid. Similarly, despite being aware that sinful glances are not permissible, he is unable to control the gaze from lustful glances. The reason for this is a lack of spiritual stamina to carry out the Commands of Allāh ta‘ālā. Through the process of Tazkiyah, a person purifies his heart from debasing qualities and as a result gains the spiritual stamina required to fulfil all the external actions Commands of Allāh ta‘ālā. External Actions Hold No Value without Tazkiyah Another important point to understand is that without purifying the heart, despite carrying out the external actions of Dīn, they may not be accepted in the Court of Allāh ta‘ālā. This is because a corrupt heart could lead to a person performing deeds with the wrong intention. For example, if a person performs a good action with the intention of acquiring fame, he will gain no reward whatsoever, rather he will be answerable in the Court of Allāh ta‘ālā. Even though outwardly his action may appear perfect and in accordance with the Commands of Allāh ta‘ālā and the Sunnah of Nabī sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam, due to his insincerity his action will yield no benefit. The importance of a purified heart has been explained by Nabī sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam in a hadīth: Indeed there is a piece of flesh in the body; if it is sound, then the whole body will be sound and if it is corrupt then the whole body will be corrupt. Indeed it is the heart. (Al-Bukhārī) Tazkiyah: The Key to Practising the Whole Dīn From the above, it is clear that Tazkiyah is the path that leads to the reformation of the heart, providing the spiritual stamina required for external actions; and making them perfect and worthy of acceptance. Having understood the importance of Tazkiyah, the question arises as to how it can be achieved. For this, read and study ‘The Path to Purification’, published by At-Tazkiyah. Let us recognise the importance of Tazkiyah and exert effort towards its acquisition, so that we may practice the whole Dīn and acquire the eternal bliss of the Hereafter. © Riyādul Jannah (Vol. 26 No. 11/12, Nov/Dec 2017) Islamic Da'wah Academy

Part Forty Five Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) then called Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) in private and gave him certain advices. Thereafter, when Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) left the room, Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) raised his hands high and made the following du‘aa: O Allah! I only intended the good and benefit of the ummah in appointing Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu). I fear that if I do not appoint the correct person, the people will fall into fitnah after my demise, and hence I have decided that which I felt was most appropriate, but You know best. After pondering deeply over the matter, I have appointed over them the one whom I felt was the best among them, the most capable of leading the people, and the most desirous for that which will ensure their guidance and goodness. I am now beset by Your command of death which has come to me, so You see to their affairs after me, as they are Your slaves and their forelocks are in Your control. I beseech You to decide that which is the best for them in appointing their Khalifah after me. Make Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) be among the Khulafaa-e-Raashideen (rightly guided Khalifas) who will follow the blessed way and example of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), the Nabi of mercy, and the way of all the righteous servants whose positions come after the position of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) (from the Ambiyaa (‘alaihimus salaam)) after him, and make his subjects righteous and obedient to him. (Hayaatus Sahaabah 2/ 31-33)

A Friend Indeed “Don’t talk about a person. Enquire about his companions.” (Arabic Proverb) This simply means that if you want to enquire about a person — about his character, what are his habits, is he responsible, etc., then do not enquire specifically about him. Instead, enquire about the company he keeps. If he keeps good company, Insha-Allah he will likewise be a good and upright person. On the contrary if he remains in the company of people accustomed to sin and vice or people of low character and morals, he will generally be judged accordingly. Musk Seller Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) emphasized upon us to always maintain good company. He is reported to have said, “A person follows the way of his friend, therefore beware of who you befriend!” (Sunan Abi Dawood #4833) In another hadeeth, a good friend has been likened to one who sells musk. One will either receive some musk from him as a gift, or buy it from him or at least one will enjoy the fragrance of musk by merely being in his company. In other words one can only benefit from him. The bad friend has been compared to a blacksmith. He will either burn your clothes due to the sparks and embers flying out of his furnace, or at the least one will breathe the toxic fumes. (Saheeh Bukhaari #2101) Thus one will not be able to escape the harm of being in his company. Merely being in the company of the bad friend will leave its negative effects on one. Friend in Need Another common saying is, “A friend in need is a friend indeed.” Supposing you are stranded on a journey and want to reach home. A friend comes and offers you a lift. He then leaves you at the door of your house. Indeed he will be regarded as a true friend. However, if he gave you a lift and dropped you off at the door of your enemy, you will be extremely disappointed and regard his claims of friendship as false. We are all presently on a journey in this world. Our greatest need is to safely reach our home which is Jannah. The person who assists us to travel on the Straight Path and guides us to our home is our true friend. The one who gives us a lift to the vice dens, encourages us to commit sins and ‘helps’ us to engage in vice is dropping us of at the door of our worst enemy. Such a ‘friend’ is either totally ignorant — that he is destroying his friend and thinking that he is doing him a favour — or he is a wolf in sheep’s clothing! He merely pretends to be a friend but is a hidden enemy. Friendship is also a two-way street. While you should choose the right friends, also be a true friend. In the guise of friendship do not push people towards the destruction of this world and the Hereafter by encouraging towards evil or passing on bad habits. Nevertheless choose your friends carefully. A friend will either make you… or break you! alhaadi

How Should a Woman Sit and Prostrate in Prayer? Answered by Ustadha Naielah Ackbarali Question: In the ”Absolute Essentials of Islam” it’s written that women should have their hands at shoulder level in prostration and keep their forearms on the ground. Yet when I attempted to practice this, I found that I could not keep my forearms on the ground without having my hands at head-level, like men. Can you explain this and the way women should perform prostration? Can you also describe the exact sitting position women should be in, please. Answer: Assalamu alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa baraktuhu The basis of the woman’s prayer in the Hanafi madhhab is that it follows the same rulings as the man’s prayer, and any differences between the two return to the principle of what is most concealing and modest for her. [Ibn `Abidin, Radd al Muhtar] In prostration, it is sunna for a woman to draw all of her limbs closely together in order to achieve maximum modesty. Her abdomen rests on top of her thighs and her upper-arms remain closely at her sides while her forearms lay on the floor. [Radd al- Muhtar; Shurunbulali, Maraqi al-Falah] It is sunna for men to prostrate in-between their hands, and their hands are placed at the level of the ears like the opening takbir. So far, I have not found a specific text that indicates that a woman does differently but I am still researching this matter. Yet, it should be noted that the placement of the hands do not affect the validity of the prayer and it is permissible to place one’s hands at the head level while prostrating as long as the ideals of modesty and concealment are upheld. In regards to her toes, it is obligatory for a part of the toes to touch the ground while in prostration in order for the prayer to be considered valid. Shaykh Faraz Rabbani has mentioned that it is not a specific sunna for women to keep their toes upright but there is no harm in doing so during prostration. While sitting for tashahud, she sits in the tawarruk position, which means that she sits on her left buttock with her knees bent and both legs are conveniently positioned to the right side of her body. In Maraqi Falah, al-Hadiyya al-Alaiyya, and Imdad al Fatah, the authors mention that the thigh is placed on top of the other thigh while her leg rests underneath her right hip. In Majma al-Anhar, the author explains further and says that “…she sits on her left buttock and positions both legs to the right side of her body because this is most concealing for her, and she brings together both of her thighs and places her right leg on top of her left leg.” In terms of additional information, the great Hanafi jurist Ibn Abdin notes the differences found within the woman’s prayer in Radd al-Muhtar. I have translated the majority of the details from his list while also adding extra explanations from sources like al-Hadiyya al-Alaiyya, Maraqi al-Falah and Imdad al-Fatah. 1.) When performing the opening takbir, she raises her hands to the level of her shoulders, while men raise their hands to the level of their ears. 2.) When performing the opening takbir, she does not withdraw her hands from underneath her sleeves because it may expose her forearms which are awrah (nakedness), while men should remove their hands from underneath their shawls. 3.) When standing, she places her right inner-palm on top of her left hand and rests them on her chest without clasping them, while men place their hands below their navels and clasp them together. 4.) When bowing, she bends her back slightly so that she touches her knees but she does not straighten her back fully, unlike men who completely align their limbs. 5.) When bowing, she does not spread her fingers apart but rather she keeps them closed together, unlike men who keep their fingers outspread. 6.) When bowing, she places her palms upon her knees and does not grasp her knees, unlike men who grasp their knees. 7.) When bowing, she bends her knees, unlike men who keep their knees straightened. 8.) When bowing and prostrating, she keeps her upper arms (the area from the shoulder to the elbow) as close as possible to the sides of her body, unlike men who distance their upper arms from their bodies. 9.) When prostrating, she rests her forearms on the ground, unlike men who keep their arms raised above the ground. 10.) She does not keep her toes upright like men. 11.) While sitting for tashahud, she sits in the tawarrak position (explained above) and she places her hands on top of her thighs such that the tips of her fingers reach her knees. 12.) While sitting for tashahud, she does not spread her fingers apart but rather she keeps them closed together, unlike men who keep their fingers outspread. 13.) If the Imam forgets something in his prayer, she claps without excessive movement instead of saying ‘SubHanAllah’ like men. 14.) She does not lead the man’s prayer. 15.) It is prohibitively disliked (e.g. sinful) for her to pray in a woman’s group prayer, to give the adhan, or to give the iqama. 16.) If she prays in a mixed congregation, she stands behind the men. 17.) She is not obligated to attend the Friday sermon prayer, but if she does and completes it, it counts as her Dhuhr prayer. 18.) It is not necessary (wajib) for her to attend the Eid prayer as opposed to men. 19.) It is not recommended for her to wait until the brightness of the sun to pray Fajr like it is for men performing the group prayer, but it is best for her to pray at the earliest part of the Fajr prayer time. 20.) She does not recite out loud in the non-silent prayers. Yet, it is important to note that if she is praying by herself in any prayer, she must recite at a level where she can hear herself in order for her prayers to be considered valid. While the majority of information found within this post was extracted from Arabic texts, I would recommend the following English resources for more details about this topic: ”The Salah of Women” by Madrasa Arabiya Islamia Azadville, South Africa ”Heavenly Ornaments’‘ by Maulana Muhammad Ashraf Ali Thanvi Barak Allah fikum Naielah Checked & Approved by Faraz Rabbani

The Wonderful Rewards of Tasbeeh-e-Fatimi Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem On one occasion, Hadhrat Hajee Farouk Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh), one of the senior Khulafa of Hadhrat Moulana Maseehullah (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh), visited us in Azaadville. During the time that he spent with us, he presented the value of Tasbeeh-e-Fatimi in a very unique manner. Hadhrat (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) explained that if a person enjoys gardening and appreciates the diversity of plants and trees, and if he travels in the world and comes across a beautiful, exotic tree or plant, he desires for it to be in his garden. He wants to enjoy its beauty and its fruit, in his own garden. However, to take it back to his country, will require special arrangements to be made. Governments have strict regulations in respect to importing and exporting, and these will have to be fulfilled. Moreover, he will have to consider whether the environment and climate of his country will be conducive and suitable. It may be that the plant is taken back home, but it does not survive due to the climate or due to other factors. If sustainable and feasible, he goes about making preparations to purchase it and bring it back to his country. Since the plant will be imported, he will have to abide by the regulations and protocol of the country, to import such plants. If he acquires the permit or licence, he will have to make arrangements for it to be transported and delivered in a suitable manner – because plants are sensitive and can easily wither away and die, if they are not packaged properly and not cared for. When he does receive it, he will have to plant it and look after it – according to its specifications. He will have to water it, add fertilizer to it, and will have to take care that it is not damaged or destroyed. The seasons bring different weather conditions, so more care is required. He will be cautious that children do not damage the plant while they play, and animals and insects don’t harm or destroy the plant. …So much of effort is made for one plant or tree of this world. …Furthermore, each tree takes time to grow and bear its fruit – years pass in the growth of a tree. In the process, the person may leave this world and not see it thrive and produce fruit. Even if he lives to enjoy the shade, the flowers and the fruit, it will only be a period of time. THE TREES OF JANNAH The Hadith speaks of trees in Jannah which surpass the trees of this world, in every way. Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah (Radiyallahu’anhu) reported that Rasulullah (Sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “…Say: Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, La ilaaha illallaah or Allahu Akbar, one tree will be planted for you in Jannah, for each of these.”[1] For each glorification of Allah Ta’ala, a tree is immediately planted in Jannah. There are no regulations, no costs, no transport arrangements required, etc. And these trees will not die. They are permanent … and we too will be living eternally in Jannah, Insha-Allah. May Allah Ta’ala make it such that we enter Jannah and also enjoy the beauty of the trees of Jannah. In reading the Tasbeeh-e-Fatima, which comprises of 33 times Subhanallah, 33 times Alhamdulillah and 34 times Allahu Akbar, we will be planting 100 trees. The effort to recite is small; the returns are very big. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) described a tree of Jannah: "There is a tree in Jannah (that is so big and huge) that if a rider travels in its shade for one hundred years, he would not be able to cross it."[2] In another Hadith, Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “There is no tree in Jannah that does not have a trunk of gold.”[3] Hadhrat ‘Abdullah ibn Mas’ood (Radiyallahu’anhu) reported that Rasulullah (Sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “I met Nabi Ibraheem (‘alaihis salaam) when I was taken on Mi’raj (ascension to the heavens) and he told me: “O Muhammad, convey my Salaam (greetings) to your Ummah and tell them that Jannah has good soil and sweet water, but it is barren. The plantation of Jannah is (the recitation of) Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, La ilaaha illallaah and Allahu Akbar.”[4] Alhamdulillah, for many, it is a practice to read Tasbeeh-e-Fatimi and engage in Zikrullah after the Fajr and Asr Salaah. These are Mubarak (blessed) times. These are also the times when people enjoy sitting or working in their gardens – so, in that same time, prepare for the real gardens of Aakhirah! Hadhrat Shaikhul Hadith, Maulana Muhammad Zakariyyah (Rahmatullahi ‘Alayh) had said that we should be conscious in undertaking all our A’maaal; thinking over the rewards, profits and the ‘harvest’ that will follow in Jannah. In this instance, we should think that we have planted one hundred magnificent trees in Jannah. Daily, we should contemplate over what we have earned and acquired of Aakhirah, by way of our actions. If a businessman pulls off a big deal and he secures prime property, etc. then in his opinion, this is a great accomplishment; this is success. He is extremely happy. However, all is ‘Faani’ – all is perishable. Nothing of Dunya is made to last. Whereas, the Zikr of Allah Ta’ala is acquiring and building our Jannah, which is forever… which is made to last. Of course, the Niyyah must be right, the Amal must be right and we should ask Allah Ta’ala to accept from us. The same focus and motivation should be brought in, when practising upon the various Sunnats. We should consider that each Sunnah brings the reward of 100 martyrs. Who does not want to multiply his honour by living his entire life according to the beautiful Sunnah? …Where there are people trying to demolish the Sunnah, we should revive it, appreciate it, cherish it and live it. BUILDING YAQEEN There is an incident of a Muslim woman who visited her friend. Whilst they were talking, her 3 year old child came and began to tug at the mother’s garment, saying: “Mummy, we have not built our palace in Jannah today!” Thereafter, her other young children, came to her and they too began to say the same – that they had not built their palaces in Jannah. The sister, who was visiting, expressed her surprise and asked what was meant by the children’s statements. So, the mother sat with her children and they recited Surah Al-Ikhlaas ten times and she explained to her friend, that the Hadith states that the recitation of Surah Al-Ikhlaas 10 times secures a palace in Jannah. The children then expressed their desire to fill up their Jannah with treasures, and they began to recite ‘La Haula wala Quwwata Illah Billah’ … since the Hadith mentions that this is a treasure of Jannah. When the mother asked the children what should be read if they want a drink of Kauthar from Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam), they all eagerly began to recite Durood Sharief. …Allahu Akbar. How enviable, when contemplating the vastness and loftiness of such a Jannah, which is being upgraded daily from such early years. This intelligent mother was fostering Yaqeen (conviction) in the Aakhirah, within the hearts and minds of her little children. We cannot truly imagine what would be achieved and what success will be enjoyed by these children, when their focus and effort is on Aakhirah, Jannah and preparing for Jannah. Allah Ta’ala grant us that kind of enthusiasm as well. Aameen. THE LAND OF DUNYA AND THE LAND OF JANNAH When we purchase a plot of land in this world; it is a fixed area in hectares or acres or square metres. By building a house and adding other amenities, the land does not expand or increase; it remains the same. The land of Jannah is such, that the more Zikrullah we engage in, the more good we do, the more the land increases and the more the land is developed by way of magnificent trees, palaces, rivers and so forth. As mentioned, Jannah is barren land, and it through our A’maal, that these bounties of Jannah are achieved and our plot of Jannah increases and expands. If a person recites the Tasbeeh-e-Fatimi after Fajr and Asr and before sleeping, so he has increased his Jannah with 300 more trees. And if he recites it after every Salaah and before he sleeps, so he has increased his plot of Jannah with 600 trees. If he does so daily, then for every passing week, he has increased his plot of Jannah by 4200 trees! Alhamdulillah, this was discussed in Westville, KZN, on one of our visits, and thereafter a friend mentioned that he approached a brother after Salaah, and he indicated that he should wait a little. After a short time, he explained that he was busy planting his trees in Jannah, with the recitation of Tasbeeh-e-Fatimi, and he had wanted to complete that first. Alhamdulillah. Allah Ta’ala’s Grace. HADHRAT FATIMA (RADHIYALLAHU ‘ANHA) Hadhrat Fatima (Radhiyallahu ‘anha) is described as the queen of the women of Jannah. Despite her lofty rank, she would carry out all the household chores by herself. She would draw water from the well to carry it home and grind the barley in the millstone. Due to these tasks, she developed blisters on her hand. On one occasion, Hadhrat ‘Ali (Radhiyallahu anhu) informed her that some slaves have arrived from the spoils of war and she should request a maid slave from her father, to assist her in the household chores. She thus went to Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) but such was her shame, that she could not ask her own father, and went back home. Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) was informed of Hadhrat Faatima’s (Radhiyallahu ‘anha) visit and went to her home to find out the reason. …From here, we learn the kind of relationship that should be found between parents and children, and the concern parents should have for their children. Unfortunately, today there is widespread neglect and we leave our children in the ‘care’ of the television, i-pad, X-box, PS4, etc. We are clueless to what is happening in their lives, and they don’t disclose anything to us because they find us too busy to give them any special time. Nevertheless, Hadhrat Fatima presented her request to her father. Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) replied: “Shall I not show you something better than what you asked for? When you retire to your bed, recite Subhanallah 33 times, Alhamdulillah 33 times and Allahu-Akbar 34 times. This is better for you than a servant.”[5] This is what is known as Tasbeeh-e-Faatimi. Who does not want better? If someone offers us better than what we want or have, how keen we would be. Whilst it is permissible to have a maid to help at home, our reasons today are generally because our womenfolk want to go gyming, want to socialise, etc. However, by doing one’s own chores at home, a woman will, InshaAllah, maintain her fitness levels. We learn from this Hadith that our physical strength also comes from Zikrullah and other Azkaar, such as Durood Shareef and Istighfaar. Zikrullah gives us energy and strength. …We buy all kinds of energy-boosters, but this is an energy-booster which is unparalleled in its benefits. Similarly, the Qaylulah gives the physical body rest and rejuvenation. …Nowadays, we say that we are exhausted and fatigued and need to go to a resort to rest, whereas the solutions to our problems are to be found in the Qur'aan Shareef, the beautiful Sunnah and in the Zikr of Allah Ta’ala. MEANING AND BENEFIT We should not rush when engaged in any Zikr. Keep in mind, the meaning and benefit. “Subhanallah” means that Allah Ta’ala is Pure. When a person says: “Subhanallah”, the person is acknowledging and proclaiming Allah Ta’ala’s Purity; that Allah Ta’ala is free from any blemish or defect. In this, there is also an acknowledgement, that we are impure. We have so many weaknesses and defects. Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘Alayh) had said that when we glorify Allah Ta’ala thus, Allah Ta’ala, in return, will purify us. …Many Mashaa’ikh instruct that females read 300 times "SubhanAllah". Just on this Tasbeeh, a person will achieve Tazkiyah (purification). Allah Ta’ala will purify, and when Allah Ta’ala purifies, what will be the condition of such a heart! “Alhamdulillah” means that all praises belong to Allah Ta’ala. Allah Ta’ala is not in need of our praises. All praises are for Allah Ta’ala whether we praise Allah Ta’ala or not. Allah Ta’ala is the only one worthy of praise. In the Hamd of Allah Ta’ala, the heart is fully accepting Allah Ta’ala as He is. We should think and believe that only Allah Ta’ala is Owner of all the qualities of praise. We, ourselves are useless and have nothing. From Allah Ta’ala’s Side, and out of His Ihsaan and Karam, when a person praises Him, Allah Ta’ala creates circumstances whereby people praise the person in return. “Allahu-Akbar” means Allah Ta’ala is the greatest. Allah Ta’ala has all the qualities of greatness. Greatness is exclusive to Allah Ta’ala. When a person recognises and acknowledges Allah Ta’ala’s Greatness, Allah Ta’ala places honour into the hearts of the creation for the person who honours Him. Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar (Rahmatullahi ‘Alayh) had explained that this honour is not based on the desire of the nafs, but in the light of the Masnoon Dua: “O Allah, make me small (insignificant) in my own eyes, and make me great (significant) in the eyes of the people.” In our own hearts, we should see ourselves as insignificant and unimportant, but we ask Allah Ta’ala to grant respect and honour in the hearts of people. What outwardly seems to be pride, has its antidote and cure in the first part of the Dua: O Allah, make me small (insignificant) in my own eyes. Respect is necessary to establish order, peace and stability. If there is no respect, there will be complete upheaval in our homes, schools, Masaajid, etc. If no respect is shown to the parents, Ustaadh, Imaam and other seniors, then there will be disorder, turmoil and chaos. And this is what we do see, in these times. Due to a lack of respect and Adab, there is disturbance and disruption in every system. Going back a few decades, cleaning floors or cars, required washing, polishing and shining. Different products would be used. Nowadays, products are formulated which do all three in one. These products are marketed as 3-in-1, 5-in-1, etc. Similarly, the Zikr of Allah Ta’ala has multiple benefits: Cleaning, polishing, and shining the heart. From the time of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam), we have had a 3-in-1 solution to the maintenance of the spiritual heart. "Subhanallah" cleans the heart; "Alhamdulillah" polishes the heart and "Allahu Akbar" shines the heart. Similarly, different Azkaar that are drawn from Ahadith do the same: clean, polish and shine. From another angle: Certain medicines require a prescription. They cannot be purchased over the counter. Allah Ta’ala has made His Zikr for the whole Ummah. No one requires permission to make Tasbeeh – to glorify and praise Allah Ta’ala. This opportunity is available for all. Despite the value being so great, we are found wanting in appreciation and in Amal. Allah Ta’ala has made His Zikr so easy. The Tasbeeh-e-Fatimi takes about a minute and requires no physical exertion or monetary expense. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the Taufeeq to practice. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the Azmat of Deen – Azmat for every aspect of Deen. Ameen! By Hadhrat Moulana Abdul Hamid Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum)

Can a woman travel alone without any relative? Question: AssalamuAlaikum. Mufti Saheb. There is a Hadith that a time will come that woman would travel from Sanaa to Hazramaut and she will not be harmed. This Hadith indicates that when such a time comes then it will be permissible for woman to travel alone. In today’s time Dctr Shabir Ally says that it is permissible and that Hadith that forbids is regarding such a time which they were scared. Can you please explain? Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. Hereunder is the Hadith referred to in the query. عَنْ خَبَّابِ بْنِ الأَرَتِّ قَالَ شكونا إلى رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم وهو متوسد بردة له في ظل الكعبة فقلنا ألا تستنصر لنا ألا تدعو لنا؟ فقال قد كان من قبلكم يؤخذ الرجل فيحفر له في الأرض فيجعل فيها فيجاء بالمنشار فيوضع على رأسه فيجعل نصفين ويمشط بأمشاط الحديد ما دون لحمه وعظمه فما يصده ذلك عن دينه والله ليتمن هذا الأمر حتى يسير الراكب من صنعاء إلى حضرموت لا يخاف إلا الله والذئب على غنمه ولكنكم تستعجلون. Translation: Khabbaab Bin Arit Radiallahu Anhu said: We complained to Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam (about our condition) while he was leaning against his sheet cloak in the shade of the Ka`ba. We said, Will you ask Allah to help us? Will you invoke Allah for us? He said, among those who were before you a (believer) used to be seized and, a pit used to be dug for him and then he used to be placed in it. Then a saw used to be brought and put on his head by which the head would split into two halves. His flesh might be combed with iron combs and removed from his bones, yet, all that did not cause him to revert from his religion. By Allah! This religion (Islam) will be completed (and triumph) till a rider (traveler) goes from San`a' (the capital of Yemen) to Hadramout fearing nobody except Allah and the wolf lest it should trouble his sheep, but you are impatient. Bukhari Take note the Hadith refers to a راكب (male traveller) and not a woman. However, there is another Hadith narrated by Adi bin Hatim Radiallahu Anhu in reference to a woman. Hereunder is the Hadith حَدَّثَنِى مُحَمَّدُ بْنُ الْحَكَمِ أَخْبَرَنَا النَّضْرُ أَخْبَرَنَا إِسْرَائِيلُ أَخْبَرَنَا سَعْدٌ الطَّائِىُّ أَخْبَرَنَا مُحِلُّ بْنُ خَلِيفَةَ عَنْ عَدِىِّ بْنِ حَاتِمٍ قَالَ بَيْنَا أَنَا عِنْدَ النَّبِىِّ - صلى الله عليه وسلم - إِذْ أَتَاهُ رَجُلٌ فَشَكَا إِلَيْهِ الْفَاقَةَ، ثُمَّ أَتَاهُ آخَرُ، فَشَكَا قَطْعَ السَّبِيلِ. فَقَالَ «يَا عَدِىُّ هَلْ رَأَيْتَ الْحِيرَةَ». قُلْتُ لَمْ أَرَهَا وَقَدْ أُنْبِئْتُ عَنْهَا. قَالَ «فَإِنْ طَالَتْ بِكَ حَيَاةٌ لَتَرَيَنَّ الظَّعِينَةَ تَرْتَحِلُ مِنَ الْحِيرَةِ، حَتَّى تَطُوفَ بِالْكَعْبَةِ، لاَ تَخَافُ أَحَدًا إِلاَّ اللَّهَ» Translation: Adi bin Hatim Radiallahu Anhu said: While I was in the city of the Prophet, a man came and complained to him (the Prophet, ) of destitution and poverty. Then another man came and complained of robbery (by highwaymen). Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam said, "Adi! Have you been to Al-Hira?" I said, "I haven't been to it, but I was informed about it." He said, "If you should live for a long time, you will certainly see that a lady in a Howdah traveling from Al-Hira will (safely reach Mecca and) perform the Tawaf of the Ka`ba, fearing none but Allah. Bukhari Here in this Hadith, the travel is from Heera to the Kaaba Shareef and not from Sanaa to Hadramaut. Deducing laws of Shariah directly from Ahadith is the function of the Mujtahideen like the four Imams of Fiqh, Imam Abu Hanifah, Imam Malik, Imam Shafee, Imam Ahmad Bin Hambal Rahimahullah. They were experts of the Qur’an and Ahadith and related sciences. It is incorrect for a non-Mujtahid, let aside a non Aalim to deduce laws of Shariah directly from the Qur’an and Ahadith as such a deduction will not be consistent with any principle and it will be riddled with many contradictions. If the Hadith meant that a woman could travel alone without a Mahram in safe times then there was no time that a woman was more protected and safe than the era of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam as the era of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam is described as خير القرون (the best of eras). Women were given respect, dignity and honor. They were liberated from all forms of domestic, social and economic injustices of the past. Women were announced equal to men in attaining virtuous deeds. إِنَّ الْمُسْلِمِينَ وَالْمُسْلِمَاتِ وَالْمُؤْمِنِينَ وَالْمُؤْمِنَاتِ وَالْقَانِتِينَ وَالْقَانِتَاتِ وَالصَّادِقِينَ وَالصَّادِقَاتِ وَالصَّابِرِينَ وَالصَّابِرَاتِ وَالْخَاشِعِينَ وَالْخَاشِعَاتِ وَالْمُتَصَدِّقِينَ وَالْمُتَصَدِّقَاتِ وَالصَّائِمِينَ وَالصَّائِمَاتِ وَالْحَافِظِينَ فُرُوجَهُمْ وَالْحَافِظَاتِ وَالذَّاكِرِينَ اللَّهَ كَثِيرًا وَالذَّاكِرَاتِ أَعَدَّ اللَّهُ لَهُمْ مَغْفِرَةً وَأَجْرًا عَظِيمًا. Translation: Indeed, the Muslim men and Muslim women, the believing men and believing women, the obedient men and obedient women, the truthful men and truthful women, the patient men and patient women, the humble men and humble women, the charitable men and charitable women, the fasting men and fasting women, the men who guard their private parts and the women who do so, and the men who remember Allah often and the women who do so - for them Allah has prepared forgiveness and a great reward. Surah Al-Ahzaaab verse 35 Despite such a pure and safe environment, Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam stated the following: عن نافع عن عبد الله بن عمر عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال لا يحل لامرأة تؤمن بالله واليوم الآخر تسافر مسيرة ثلاث ليال الا ومعها ذو محرم. Translation: It is not permissible for a woman who believes in Allah and the Last Day to travel for the distance of three days except with a Dhu-Mahram (i.e. a male with whom she cannot marry at all, e.g. her brother, father, grandfather, etc.) or her own husband). Sahih Muslim قَالَ النَّبِيُّ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ:لاَ تُسَافِرِ المَرْأَةُ إِلَّا مَعَ ذِي مَحْرَمٍ، وَلاَ يَدْخُلُ عَلَيْهَا رَجُلٌ إِلَّا وَمَعَهَا مَحْرَمٌ، فَقَالَ رَجُلٌ: يَا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ إِنِّي أُرِيدُ أَنْ أَخْرُجَ فِي جَيْشِ كَذَا وَكَذَا، وَامْرَأَتِي تُرِيدُ الحَجَّ، فَقَالَ: اخْرُجْ مَعَهَا. Translation: Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam said: It is not permissible for a woman who believes in Allah and the Last Day to travel except with a Mahram (unmarriageable kin), and no man may visit her except in the presence of a Dhu-Mahram. A man asked Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam: "O Messenger of Allah! My wife is going on Hajj (pilgrimage), while I want to participate in a battle, what should I do? Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam said: "Go out with her. The most explicit evidence on this issue is the incident of Aisha Radiallahu Anha during Hajjatul Wida. Makkah Mukarramah was already conquered. It was the pure environment of the Haj of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam. The enemies of Islam were suppressed and the Islamic law was in full force. When Hazrat Aisha Radiallahu Anha wanted to perform Umra after Haj, Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam advised Hazrat Aisha’s brother Abdur Rahman to accompany her from Makkah to Tan’eem which is at the border of Haram. The distance between Tan’een and Haram is only about 5km. Hazrat Aisha Radiallahu Anha could have traveled by herself to Tan’eem as it was in the era of Islamic law and the Haj of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam. Hazrat Aisha could have traveled with other Sahabiyyaat to Tan’eem. Why did Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam specifically chose Abdur Rahmaan to accompany her? The answer is simple, Hazrat Aisha Radiallahu Anha was a Shar’ie Musaafir and she had to abide by the laws of Shariah of traveling with a Mahram. Any person who is correctly schooled in Hadith will not rely merely on an indication in the Hadith to deduce a ruling. There are two modes of expression of speech; • One is نص (the objective of the speech). • The other isظاهر (secondary to the objective of the speech). Whilst we consider the secondary points in Hadith, that should not be in conflict with the primary objective of the speech. In the two Ahadith stated in the beginning about safe travel, the primary objective of the speech is emphasis on safety and protection. This is illustrated with example of a rider traveling in one Hadith and woman traveling in another Hadith. It is incorrect to use this illustration of safety to deduce that a woman can travel alone in safe time as that is not the primary objective of the Hadith, especially when there are many Ahadith prohibiting women traveling alone without a Mahram. Furthermore, no Mujtahid has made such a deduction. Hereunder are the rulings of the four Imams of Madhabs on woman travelling alone. According to the Hanafi and Hambali schools of thought, it is not permissible for a woman to travel the distance of three days (equivalent to 48 miles) without her husband or a Mahram (unmarriageable kin) accompanying her. According to the Shafie school of thought, a woman is only permitted to travel with a Mahram or her husband or a group of women. According to the Maliki school of thought if a woman cannot find a Mahram to travel with her for a Wajib travel and she does not have a husband, then she is allowed to travel with a group of pious men or a group of pious women. As for non Wajib travel, the normal principle will apply as stated hereunder. أمّا سفر التّطوّع والمباح فلا يجوز لها الخروج فيه إلاّ مع محرمٍ أو زوجٍ . Translation: As for a voluntary and permissible travel, a woman is not permissible to travel except with a Mahram or a husband. Mausu’atul Fiqhiyyah Al-Kuwaitiyyah 304/23 It is incorrect to assume that the Hadith is referring to today’s time. Please consider the following reports about how unsafe it is for woman to travel alone. • The agency Eric Mower + Associates asked 400 U.S. women about their perceptions on safety when traveling alone. The results reveal that overall, women feel uncomfortable or unsafe traveling solo (although two out of three have done so). Furthermore, two in five women report that they have experienced sexual harassment while on the road alone. • FBI Special Agent David Rodski told reporters the number of sexual assaults during flights is increasing "at an alarming rate," and added, "We're not sure why." Last year, CNN reported it is difficult to determine just how frequently assaults happen on commercial flights because no federal regulatory agency tracks that data nationwide. The FBI doesn't have complete confidence in the official number of midair sexual assaults, because so many cases may go unreported, said Brian Nadeau, assistant special agent in charge with the Baltimore division of the FBI. Investigators believe the numbers are almost certainly much higher. The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, one of the world's largest flight attendant unions, surveyed nearly 2,000 flight attendants in 2016 about their experiences with midair sexual assaults. Among those who responded, 1 out of 5 said they received a report of passenger-on-passenger sexual assault while working a flight. • Airlines are under pressure to provide separate women’s seating to combat the lecherous spread of male passengers over the dividing armrests, amid a surge in midair sexual assaults. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Mahomed Yasser Yunus Hussen Student Darul Iftaa Mozambique Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai.

Part Forty Four When Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) commenced dictating the letter and he reached the point where the name of Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was going to be written, he fell unconscious before he could mention the name of Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu). Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) immediately continued the letter for Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) by writing, “I have appointed ‘Umar, the son of Khattaab, as the Khalifah over you.” On regaining consciousness, Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) said to Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), “Read to me what you have written.” Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) thus read the sentence in which Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was appointed as the Khalifah. Hearing this, Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) exclaimed, “Allahu Akbar! I see that you feared that if I had passed away while unconscious, before the name of Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) could be written, people could have differed regarding the Khilaafah. May Allah Ta‘ala reward you well on behalf of Islam and the Muslims (for writing the name of Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) as I also feel that he is the most worthy for the Khilaafah after my demise). I take an oath in the name of Allah! You have the capability of becoming the Khalifah!” Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) then instructed for the letter to be sealed and thereafter handed it to Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) to read to the people. Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) went to the people with Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) and Hazrat Usaid bin Sa‘eed Al-Qurazi (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) and said to them, “Will you pledge allegiance to the person who has been appointed as the Khalifah in this letter?” The people said yes, and Hazrat ‘Ali (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) further said, “We know whose name is contained in the letter – it is Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu).” The other people also expressed their desire that Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) be appointed as the Khalifah, and they all happily and wholeheartedly pledged allegiance at his hands. (Hayaatus Sahaabah 2/ 31-33)

Wa'alaykumus salaam warahmatullaah hmmm best to ask a person of knowledge for correct understanding bint e Aisha

Part Forty Three When Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was in his final illness, he dictated the following letter to Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) in which he appointed Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) as the Khalifah after him: Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem This is the instruction of Abu Bakr, the son of Abu Quhaafah, at the very end of his life in this world, while exiting the world and entering the life of the Hereafter, and he is close to reaching the point (of the throes of death, wherein the signs of the Hereafter become clear to a person and) where a kaafir will wish that he had brought Imaan, a sinner realizes and gains full conviction of his condition, and a liar will wish to become truthful. I have appointed ‘Umar, the son of Khattaab, as the Khalifah over you. You should thus listen to him and express complete obedience to him, for indeed I have not fallen short in fulfilling my obligation to Allah, His Rasul (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), His deen, and the right I owe to myself and to you, in appointing the best person over you who is most worthy of the Khilaafah from the people. If he rules with justice then that is what I expect of him and that is what I know of him, and if he changes his ways ( after I leave this world, and becomes evil and oppressive) then each man will have to bear the sin that he earns. It is only goodness that I intended in appointing him, and I do not have knowledge of the unseen. وَسَيَعْلَمُ ٱلَّذِينَ ظَلَمُوٓا۟ أَىَّ مُنقَلَبٍ يَنقَلِبُونَ The wrongdoers will soon come to know to what end they will return Was salaamu ‘alaikum warahmatullah To be continued Insha Allah (Hayaatus Sahaabah 2/ 31)

1. Objective of visiting the graveyard. When one visits a graveyard, his intention should be to remind himself of death and life after death and to jolt oneself to prepare for that. Rasulullah (salallahu alayhi wa sallam) has said; كُنْتُ نَهَيْتُكُمْ عَنْ زِيَارَةِ الْقُبُورِ، فَزُورُوهَا؛ فَإِنَّهَا تُزَهِّدُ فِي الدُّنْيَا، وَتُذَكِّرُ الْآخِرَةَ سنن ابن ماجه (1/ 501) “I had prohibited you from visiting the graveyard, now visit it because it (the visiting) withdraws one from the world and reminds of the hereafter”. (Sunan Ibne Majah). 2. When one enters the graveyard he should read; [1] السَّلَامُ عَلَيْكُمْ أَهْلَ الدِّيَارِ مِنَ الْمُؤْمِنِينَ وَالْمُسْلِمِينَ، وَإِنَّا، إِنْ شَاءَ اللهُ لَلَاحِقُونَ، أَسْأَلُ اللهَ لَنَا وَلَكُمُ الْعَافِيَةَ Transliteration: Assalamulaykum ahlad diyaar minal mu`mineen wal muslimeen. Wa inna in sha Allahu bikum lahikuun. As`alullaha lana walakumul aafiyah Translation: Peace be on you, O beleivering dwellers of this dwelling, soon when Allah wishes we shall meet together. I ask Allah A`fiyya for us and for you. 3. One should give due respect to the deceased as he would have given him when he was alive, Rasulullah(salallahu alayhi wa sallam) has mentioned; "كَسْرُ عَظْمِ الْمَيِّتِ كَكَسْرِهِ حَيًّا" سنن ابن ماجه ت الأرنؤوط (2/ 541) “Breaking the bone of a deceased is like breaking his bone whilst he was alive” (Sunan Ibne Majah) 4. One should abstain from trampling any grave as we have been warned against it in a Hadith; نَهَى النَّبِيُّ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ أَنْ تُجَصَّصَ القُبُورُ، وَأَنْ يُكْتَبَ عَلَيْهَا، وَأَنْ يُبْنَى عَلَيْهَا، وَأَنْ تُوطَأَ. سنن الترمذي ت بشار (2/ 359) “Nabi (salallahu alayhi wa sallam) has prohibited that graves be solidified, something be written on them, something be built on it or it be trampled” (Sunan-at-Tirmidhi) 5. One should abstain from sitting on a grave as Nabi (salallahu alayhi wa sallam) has said; «لَأَنْ يَجْلِسَ أَحَدُكُمْ عَلَى جَمْرَةٍ فَتُحْرِقَ ثِيَابَهُ، فَتَخْلُصَ إِلَى جِلْدِهِ، خَيْرٌ لَهُ مِنْ أَنْ يَجْلِسَ عَلَى قَبْرٍ» صحيح مسلم (2/ 667) (It is better that one of you sits on a burning amber and it burns his clothes and gets on his skin than sitting on a grave). (Saheeh Muslim) We can see the severity of sitting on graves from this hadith. 6. One should make as much dua, istigfaar and tilaawat as he wishes and make the intention that the reward of that reading be a gift for the deceased (this will not decrease the reward of the reader himself). N.B a person can make an intention that the reward be passed to all muslims who have passed away.[2] 7. It is preferable one reads Sura Yaseen, Sura Mulk, Sura Fatiha, Sura Zilzaal, Sura Takaathur, Sura Ikhlaas and Ayatul Kursi. 8. One should abstain from talking anything about worldly things, since the graveyard is a place to remind one of death and the hereafter. 9. One may raise his hands and make dua as long as raising the hands does not resemble those who worship graves. If making dua creates such an impression, face the qibla when making dua. 10. When visiting the graveyard, one should use the opportunity to make Tawba, Istigfaar and to reform oneself. Think of the day one will be placed in the Qabr (grave). As much as the deceased appreciate our visiting them and sending thawaab, a person should make his own preparation for death whilst he is alive. And Allah Ta`ala Knows Best. Hussein Muhammad. Student Darul Iftaa Arusha, Tanzania Checked and Approved by: Mufti Ebrahim Desai.

Seerah Series Part 8: Battle of Ahzaab The Battle of the Ditch took place in Shawwal 5 A.H. It was a decisive battle but it presented to the Muslims grave trials that they had not previously experienced. Allah says in the Qur’an: When they came against you from above you and from below you, and when your eyes swerved and your hearts reached your throats, and you thought thoughts about Allah; there it was that the believers were tried, and shaken most mightily. (33: 11) The Jews instigated these hostilities. People from the Banu’n-Nadir and the Banu Wa’il went to the Quraysh in Makkah, calling on them to fight the Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah. The Quraysh who had already experienced war with the Prophet were reluctant to get involved again. However, the Jewish delegation painted such a rosy picture of the outcome that they agreed to co-operate. ‘We will support you,’ the Jews promised, ‘until you obliterate him.’ That delighted the Quraysh. They were eager to carry out the Jews’ ideas. They gathered their forces and prepared for battle. The Jewish delegation then went to the Ghatafan tribes and invited them to join the Quraysh. After the Ghatafan agreed to join in, they went to other tribes, presenting them with the same plan backed by the Quraysh. Thus an alliance was formed between the Quraysh, the Jews, and the Ghatafan against the Muslims. Certain conditions were drawn up. The Quraysh had to gather four thousand fighters and the Ghatafan six thousand, making ten thousand in all. This vast army was to be commanded by Abu Sufyan ibn Harb. The Jews agreed to give one year’s harvest of Khaybar to the Ghatafan to compensate them for their military expenses. WISDOM IS THE LOST PROPERTY OF THE BELIEVER: The Muslims decided to fortify themselves in Madinah and defend the city. Their army numbered less than three thousand so Salman al-Farsi suggested that a ditch should be dug around the city for protection. ‘In Persia,’ Salman said, ‘when we feared invaders, we would dig a ditch around us to keep them at bay.‘ The Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah agreed to his suggestion and a ditch was dug on the exposed side from where they feared the enemy would attack. The Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah planned the work and assigned forty cubits of digging to each group of ten Muslims. The length of the ditch was about five thousand cubits and its depth varied between seven and ten cubits. Its width was at least nine cubits. THE SPIRIT OF EQUALITY AND MUTUAL SUPPORT AMONG THE MUSLIMS: The Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah helped to dig the ditch and encouraged the Muslims working alongside him. Although it was bitterly cold and food was in short supply, the work proceeded smoothly. Abu Talhah said, ‘We complained to the Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah of hunger and we showed him the stones that we had tied round our bellies to ease the pain. Then the Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah showed us that he had two stones on his belly.’ In spite of all this they were happy, praising Allah and chanting poems. No one complained or expressed any regrets. Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) said, ‘The Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah went out to the ditch when the Muhajirun and Ansar were digging in the bitterly cold morning air. They had no slaves to do it for them. Seeing their state of fatigue and hunger, he said: O Allah! True life is the life of the Next World. So forgive the Ansar and the Muhajirun. In response they said: We are those who have given homage to Muhammad. To fight in jihad as long as we have life. The Muslims came upon a large rock which their picks could not shift. When they complained to the Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah about it, he took up a pick, saying, ‘In the name of Allah.’ His first blow broke off a third of the rock and sent sparks flying. ‘Allah is greater!’ he said, ‘I have been given the keys of Syria. By Allah, I see its red castles, if Allah wills.‘ He struck at the rock a second time and another third broke off. ‘Allah is greater. I have been given the keys of Persia and, by Allah, I see the white castles of al-Mada’in. With his third blow, he invoked the name of Allah and the rest of the rock shattered. ‘Allah is greater!’ he exclaimed, ‘Allah is greater! I have been given the keys of the Yemen. By Allah, I see the gates of San’a’ from here. PROPHETIC MIRACLES: A number of miracles were witnessed by the Companions at this time. Once when the ground was too hard to dig in part of the ditch, the Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah called for some water, spat into it and prayed a supplication willed by Allah. When he poured the water over the hard ground, it became soft like sand. On other occasions, a great blessing would appear when a small amount of food could satisfy a large number of Muslims or even be sufficient for an entire army of three thousand workers. “When they came to you from above you and from beneath you” The Muslims had scarcely finished work on the ditch when the Quraysh and the Ghatafan arrived and pitched camp outside Madinah with ten thousand warriors. The Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah assembled his three thousand Muslims, keeping the ditch between them and the enemy. A treaty existed between the Muslims and the Madinan Jewish tribe of Banu Qurayzah. Huyayy ibn Akhtab, the chief of Banu’n-Nadir encouraged the Jews to break the treaty. When the Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah heard of this, he realised that it was a serious setback and everyone feared the consequences. Some of the hypocrites displayed their hypocrisy openly. The Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah even considered making a treaty with the Ghatafan, giving them one-third of Madinah’s dates in order to make things easier for the Ansar who always bore the greatest hardships during wars. He rejected that option after Sa’d ibn Mu’adh and Sa’d ibn ‘Ubadah advised him to remain firm, upright and resolute before the enemy and to refuse any compromise. ‘Messenger of Allah,’ they said, ‘We and these people all used to associate other things with Allah and worship idols; none of us worshipped nor recognised Allah. They would not eat a single date except through hospitality or purchase. Now that Allah has honoured us with Islam and guided us to it and made us mighty by you and Himself, shall we still give them our property? By Allah, we have no need to and, by Allah, we will not give them anything but the sword until Allah decides between us and them.‘ QURAYSH CAVALRY: The Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah and the Muslims remained besieged by their enemies but no fighting took place. However, some of the mounted Quraysh galloped their horses up to the edge of the ditch. When they saw the ditch, they Said, ‘By Allah, this is a device which the Arabs have never used!’ Then, having found the narrowest part, they beat their horses until they jumped over the ditch into the territory of Madinah. Among them was the famous horseman Amr ibn Abd Wudd who was said to be the equal of a thousand horsemen. He stopped and asked, ‘Who will face me?’ Ali ibn Abi Talib sprang forward and said, ‘Amr! You swore by Allah that if a man of the Quraysh offered you two alternatives, you would accept one of them!’ ‘Yes, I did.’ ‘I call you to Allah and to His Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) and to Islam,’ Ali said. ‘I have no need of that.’ ‘Then I call on you to encounter me.’ ‘Nephew,’ said Amr to Ali, ‘By Allah, I do not want to kill you.’ ‘But, by Allah,’ Ali replied, ‘I want to kill you.’ Amr was so furious that he leapt from his horse, hamstrung it, and slapped its face. Then he advanced on Ali who fought back. They circled one another, thrusting and parrying. Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) eventually beheaded Amr with a sweeping blow of his sword. The other horsemen rapidly retreated back across the ditch. A MOTHER ENCOURAGING HER SON TO FIGHT AND GAIN MARTYRDOM: Before the veil was prescribed, A’ishah, Umm al-Mu’minin, said that she was with the Muslim women in the fortress of Banu Harithah when, ‘Sa’d ibn Mu’adh passed by wearing armour so short that his forearm was exposed. He was chanting some verses and his mother called, “Catch up, my son. By Allah, you are late.” ‘ A’ishah continued, ‘I said to her, “Umm Sa’d, I wish Sa’d’s armour were longer than that.” What A’ishah feared took place. Sa’d ibn Mu’adh was hit by an arrow which severed a vein causing excessive bleeding. He died a martyr in the subsequent battle with the Banu Qurayzah. TO ALLAH BELONG THE ARMIES OF THE HEAVENS AND THE EARTH: Their enemies laid siege to the Muslims for about a month. They invaded all the surrounding areas creating great hardship. The hypocrites showed their true colours; some even asked the Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah if they could go into Madinah because they had left their houses unlocked. In reality, they only wanted to flee from the battlefront. While the Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah and his Companions kept a close watch on the enemy besieging them, Nu’aym ibn Mas’ud from the Ghatafan came up to him to say, ‘Messenger of Allah, I have become a Muslim but my people do not know that. Tell me what you want me to do and I will do whatever you wish.’ The Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah replied, ‘You are the only Muslim there, so stay among our enemies and try to help us in whatever way you can. War is a clever device.’ Nu’aym ibn Mas’ud then went to the Banu Qurayzah and aroused doubts in their minds about their position. He mentioned their alliance with the Quraysh and Ghatafan who were distant tribes, and their antagonism towards the Muhajirun and Ansar who were their close neighbours. He suggested they should not fight alongside the Quraysh and Ghatafan until they had taken some leaders as hostages for security. They answered, ‘You have given us good advice.’ When he went to talk to the Quraysh, he told them that the Jews were regretting what they had done and would be asking for some of their leaders to be held hostage as security that the treaty would not be broken. He also said that when they handed them over to the Prophet and his Companions, they would strike off their heads. Then he told the Ghatafan the same story as he had told the Quraysh. The seeds of distrust that he planted in their minds put the two groups on their guard and made them angry with the Jews. A split developed between the allies as a result, and each of them feared the others. When Abu Sufyan and the leaders of the Ghatafan were ready to fight a decisive battle with the Muslims, the Jews put it off, demanding hostages from both sides first. The Quraysh and Ghatafan were convinced that Nu’aym ibn Mas’ud had told them the truth so they refused to grant the Jews’ request. The Jews were also convinced that he had told them the truth. Thus their distrust of each other broke their unity and they split up. Allah supported His Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) by causing a hurricane to blow during the cold wintry nights. It blew down the enemy’s tents and overturned their cooking-pots. The men were disheartened. Abu Sufyan got up and said, ‘Company of Quraysh! By Allah, we are not in a permanent camp. The horses and camels are dying. The Banu Qurayzah have broken their promise to us and we have heard things about them which we dislike. We have suffered from the harshness of the wind as you can see and we are left without a cooking pot, or a fire. Not even a tent is standing up. Leave now, for I am going.’ Abu Sufyan went to his camel which was hobbled and mounted it. He beat it but did not unhobble it until it was standing. When the Ghatafan heard that the Quraysh had departed, they also left. The Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah was standing in prayer when his spy, Hudhayfah ibn al-’Yaman, informed him of what had taken place. In the morning the Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah left the ditch and returned to Madinah. All the Muslims followed him, laying down their weapons. Allah Almighty spoke the truth: O you who believe, remember Allah’s blessing on you when hosts came against you, and We loosed against them a wind, and hosts you did not see. Allah sees what you do. (33: 9) and, Allah sent back those that were unbelievers in their rage and they attained no good. Allah spared the believers of fighting. Surely Allah is Strong, Mighty. (33: 25) The hardships of war were over and the Quraysh never again returned to fight the Muslims. The Messenger(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) of Allah said, ‘The Quraysh will never raid you after this year. Rather you will raid them. Seven Muslims were martyred on the Day of the Ditch while four idol-worshippers were killed by the Muslims. everymuslim

Dislike for Death Hazrat Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Daamat Barakaatuhu) mentioned: When Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) explained to the Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) that a time will come when the disbelieving nations will invite each other to attack the Muslim Ummah like how people are invited to a meal, they asked the reason for this. Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) explained two problems: (1) Love of this world, and (2) Dislike for death. Unfortunately, this is the condition we find ourselves facing. This is what needs to be remedied and thereafter all our problems will be solved. One way of remedying this is to frequently think of death for at least 15 – 20 minutes daily. If we become afraid at the thought of death and the spectacle of the grave etc. then think of the great rewards in Jannat.