ummtaalib

WORSE THAN ZINAA The extent to which the Shariah detests the extremely abhorrent crime of zina is evident from the punishment that has been stipulated for it. An unmarried person found guilty of this crime will be given eighty lashes. A married person will be stoned to death. Aside from the Shar’i punishment, every straight thinking person abhors this evil totally. If the person guilty of this evil is exposed, he becomes disgraced in society. The parents of such a person, who has been exposed, will not have the courage to face society. Yes. Zina is a terrible deed. Everybody rightly regards it as such. However, there is something worse than zina. It is worse than that evil which is punishable with eighty lashes or stoning to death. It has been declared to be worse by none other than Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). Yet, despite the fact that it is worse than zina, it goes on all the time. The whole family engages in it together. It is a favourite past time for many. It continues even in the Musjid. It does not even stop in Ramadhaan. People indulge in it even while sitting directly in front of the Ka’ba Shareef. The camps of Mina and the plains of Arafaat are also not free of it . . . The list goes on and on. What, then, is this terrible sin, this ghastly deed, this disgusting evil which is worse than the most despicable crime of zina? Yet it takes place almost everywhere. It is simply the wretched act of . . . GHEEBAT (backbiting). Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is reported to have said: “Gheebat is worse than zina” (Mishkaat). But do we regard it as such? Do we carry the same abhorrence in our hearts for gheebat as we have for zina? Does the husband stop his wife in her tracks when she indulges in the act that is worse than zina, and vice versa? Rarely does this happen. The Qur’an denounces the sin of gheebat in extremely strong terms. Allah Ta’ala asks: “Does any one of you love to eat the flesh of his dead brother?” Gheebat is thus akin to eating the flesh of a dead person. WHY WORSE ? Why is gheebat worse than zina? The person guilty of adultery realizes he is committing a grave sin. He even feels ashamed. Thus such a person would often quickly make sincere tawba and gain the forgiveness of Allah Ta’ala. But the one involved in gheebat feels that he is doing nothing wrong. He therefore does not even repent. In the meantime he has passed on his precious good deeds to the one he has spoken ill of. Also, gheebat is a means of creating mischief. Those who were not involved in any way in an incident or who have nothing to do with it listen to the sordid details with relish. They in turn pass it on to others until entire families and communities are engulfed in its flames. The end-result is severe fitna. Allah Ta’ala declares: “And fitna is worse than murder.” Thus the gravity of the crime of gheebat is apparent. Therefore STOP this evil. STOP passing your good deeds to those you dislike. STOP making your pet past time the discussion of the ills of your boss, employee, colleague, rival, partner, mother-in-law/daughter-in-law/other-in-laws, or any body else. Use the time to ponder over one’s own sins and weaknesses. This will be of benefit to one. Just simply put a fullstop to backbiting. You may not always be in the position to stop others. But you definitely can . . . STOP YOURSELF . . . from backbiting or listening to it. Source

WHAT IS GHEEBAT? In the Hadith Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) is reported to have said: “Backbiting is to mention something of your fellow Muslim brother what he would dislike (that such a thing is being mentioned about him.” Somebody asked: “And what if it is true?” Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) replied: “If it is true you have indulged in gheebat. If it is a lie, you are guilty of slandering him” (Mishkaat). Thus the common retort to justify one’s backbiting such as “what I am saying is true!” will not negate the sin of gheebat. In fact this is gheebat in its totality.

Part Twelve Hijrah to Madinah Munawwarah: Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) and his respected family, Hazrat Ruqayyah (radhiyallahu ‘anha), eventually returned to Makkah Mukarramah from Abyssinia. They thereafter performed Hijrah to Madinah Munawwarah. When Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) arrived in Madinah Munawwarah with his respected family, he was hosted by Hazrat Aws bin Thaabit (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), the brother of Hazrat Hassaan bin Thaabit (radhiyallahu ‘anhu). (Usdul Ghaabah 3/216) Absence from the Battle of Badr: Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was not present for the Battle of Badr. The reason is that his respected wife, Hazrat Ruqayyah (radhiyallahu ‘anha), who was the blessed daughter of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), became extremely ill and was on the verge of passing away. Hence, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) instructed Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) to remain with her in Madinah Munawwarah in order to attend to her. Hazrat Ruqayyah (radhiyallahu ‘anha) eventually passed away on the same day in which the news arrived that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) and the Muslims were victorious in the battle against the disbelievers. On account of his deep desire to participate in the battle, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) allotted him a share of the booty and also promised him that he would enjoy the reward of those who had participated. Hence, he was equal to those who fought in the battle. (Usdul Ghaabah 3/216, Ibn Sa’d 3/41) In this regard, Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) narrates, “The only reason for Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) not participating in the Battle of Badr was that he was married to the blessed daughter of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) and she was ill (at the time of the battle). Hence, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) said to him, ‘Indeed you will have the reward of one who participated in Badr as well as the booty.’” (Saheeh Bukhaari #3130)

Fatimah bintu Nasr ibn Al 'Attar Al Baghdadiyyah Question There is a narration about the modesty of a pious woman who had such haya, that she never left her house except on three occasions (Her birth, when she got married and her janazah) I am unsure about her name, if it was Fatimah Al Baghdadiyyah or another person What is the source of this report and the identity of the righteous woman? Answer This was indeed Fatimah bintu Nasr ibn Al 'Attar Al Baghdadiyyah. She was known to be extremely pious. 'Allamah Dhahabi (rahimahullah) writes, 'Her brother said: 'She only left the house thrice in her entire lifetime' (Tarikhul Islam, vol. 23 pg. 526, Al Bidayah Wan Nihayah, vol. 14 pg. 284/285) And Allah Ta'ala Knows best. Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar hadithanswers.com

Acquiring Deeni Knowledge Read Here Ihyauddeen Newsletter

Imam Baqy Ibn Makhlad (rahimahullah); A True Student Imam Baqy ibn Makhlad al Andulusy (rahimahullah) was born in Spain and he passed away there as well. He was born in the year 201 A.H. and passed away in 276 A.H. At the age of 20 he traveled to Baghdad on foot for the sole purpose of meeting Imam Ahmad ibn Hambal (rahimahullah) He relates: “When I drew near to Baghdad, I heard of the sanction on Imam Ahmad (rahimahullah) and that he was banned from having any lessons. I became extremely saddened by this. After reaching Baghdad I went to the Masjid in search of some gathering of learning. I was shown a huge gathering wherein someone was authenticating people. He was mentioning the categories of the various narrators of Hadith. Upon enquiry I was told that this was Imam Yahya ibn Ma’in (rahimahullah) I then saw a gap near him and went closer and asked: “O Abu Zakariyya ! May Allah have mercy on you, I am a traveler and very far away from home. I wish to ask you a question so please do not refuse me”. He said to me: “Go ahead”. I enquired from him about a few of people that I had met from the As-habul Hadith (seekers of Hadith). Some of them he authorised and some he unauthorised… Then I said to him: “Can I seek your authorisation of Imam Ahmad ibn Hambal?” He looked at me astonished and said: “Can a person like me be asked about Imam Ahmad ibn Hambal (rahimahullah)?! Verily that is the leader of all the Muslims and the best and most exalted of them”. I then went out in search of the house of Imam Ahmad (rahimahullah). I tapped on the door. When he came out he saw a man who he did not recognize. I said to him: “O Abu Abdillah! I am a man who is far away from his home and this is my first time in this town. I am a student of Hadith and I have undertaken this journey specially to benefit from you”. He said to me: “Come to the passage so nobody sees you”. He then asked me: “Where are you from?” I replied: “From the far West” he asked: “From Africa?” I replied: “Further than that. I have to cross the sea to go to Africa, I am from Spain”. He said: “Your country is very far off . Nothing is more beloved to me than to assist a person like you but I have been afflicted with the sanctions that you my have heard of ” I said: “Of course, I heard of it whilst I was near Baghdad, but O Abu Abdillah! This is the first time I have come here. Nobody knows me so if you permit I will come every day in the clothes of a beggar and call out at the door like they normally call out. Then you could come to this passage and if you narrate to me only one Hadith a day it would be sufficient for me”. He replied: “Yes on condition that you do not go to any other gathering or halaqah (gathering) of the As-habul hadith”. I said: “As you wish “. So I use to take a stick in my hand, wrap a cloth on my head, put my paper and ink in my sleeve and come to his door and call out like the beggars would call out. Then he would come to the passage and narrate to me two or three Hadiths and sometimes even more. In this manner I collected approximately 300 Hadiths. I did this till the end of the sanctions and till Imam Ahmad (rahimahullah) regained his status in the eyes of the people. Whenever I would attend his gathering later on, he would keep me close to him and he would say to the As-habul Hadith: “This person is fit to be called a student of Hadith”. Then he would narrate to them my experience with him”. Imam Abul Walid Al-Faradhy (rahimahullah) says: “Imam Baqy ibn Makhlad (rahimahullah) use to say: “Verily I know a man (referring to himself) who days use to pass by during his student-hood and he would not have food to eat except cabbage leaves that would be thrown away as garbage.” He once said to his students: “Are you’ll seeking ‘ilm (knowledge), is this the way to seek ‘ilm?!! Only when one of you does not have anything to do does he think of seeking knowledge! verily I know a man (referring to himself) who days use to pass by during his student days and he would not have anything to eat but the cabbage leaves that people use to throw on the streets! And certainly I know a man who sold his pants many a times to buy pages for writing!!! Extracted from the book: صفحات من صبر العلماء على شدائد العلم والتحصيل “Incidents of the sacrifices of the ‘Ulama in their quest for knowledge” By Shaykh ‘Abdul Fattah Abu Ghuddah (rahimahullah) Lessons to be acquired from the incident of this “genuine student of Din”: The manner in which he plotted to benefit from the vast knowledge of Imam Ahnad (rahimahullah) despite those very delicate circumstances. His long sojourn of hundreds of miles from Spain to Baghdad for this purpose. His tolerance of extreme poverty in the path of acquiring knowledge. Let us try and emulate these great ‘Ulama to some extent in their manner of seeking knowledge. It is said that Imam Baqy ibn Makhlad (rahimahullah) had compiled a very large and comprehensive work on Hadith but unfortunately its whereabouts are unknown today. May Allah Ta’ala make it easy to locate this magnificent piece of work of Imam Baqy ibn Makhlad (rahimahullah) (amin) al-miftah

HOW CAN I BRING MY SIBLINGS ONTO DEEN? Question: I have a question regarding practice of Deen. My siblings have stopped praying salaah and deeni activities for two years. Both of them are Haafiz. It might be that because of all the expectations and judgements that the Muslim community has put on them. No matter what they do no one seems to be happy with them. If my brothers didn’t go to the masjid my dad wouldn’t talk to them for days. I know that my parents were only ever trying to help and nurture us, but sometimes things did get too extreme. I'm scared that if we pressure them too much it will only drive them further away from Deen. Please help me. Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. Sister-in-Islam, We take note of the contents of your email. It is encouraging to note your passion for Deen and your desire to help your siblings become better Muslims. Make Allāh Ta`ālā help you fulfill this endeavor. Ameen. Rasulullah Sallalahu Alayhi Wasallam has stated in a Hadith, الشَّبَابَ شُعْبَةٌ مِنَ الْجُنُونِ Translation: Adolescence is a branch of insanity.1 Masha-Allah, you realize the importance of helping your brothers overcome the challenges they are currently facing and Insha-Allah your effort will not go in vain. Be confident that by the Will of Allah you will be able to help them. A person in his youth faces many challenges from biological to financial, from family to social. The different feelings tend to cloud their rationale and they end up making serious mistakes. If they are not carefully handled, the mistakes could develop into perpetual habits and thus aggravating the problem. It is the responsibility of seniors to bring balance in their lives and use diplomacy and wisdom in doing so. What you state regarding your siblings is a typical conduct of a youth. We advise you to adopt the following ways: · Speak to them with a soft tone, respect and dignity. They may feel they deserve to be talked to with respect and not be scolded at every time. · Keep a very friendly and positive attitude towards them and hopefully this will soften their hearts towards you and they will be more willing to listen to you. Allow them to confide in you and share their sentiments with you; · It may be that your siblings feel lonely, deserted and abandoned. Spend quality time with them and bond with them. · Encourage them with wisdom and remind them that the doors of mercy are always open and true happiness lies in the Akhirah. · You seem to have a very good relationship with your parents. Try to contribute to a change in your parent’s mindset. Consider the following advice narrated by Faqeehul Ummah Hazrat Mufti Mahmood Saheb Gangohi Rahimahullah of Hazrat Moulana Maseehullah Khan Saheb Rahimahullah, Nowadays parents should behave towards their children as children. Father should act as a son; not with the awe and fear of yesteryear. He should deal with love, tenderness and affection…. ‘Son it is time for the meals.... son it is time for bed, etc. These are all request; as if one brother is talking to another; for the era of dictating and commanding are over (Ashraf’s Blessings, Page 369) · While you may witness them demonstrating unsuitable behaviour and reacting unjustifiably, console them and show your sisterly love and affection to them. Try to diagnose the cause of their behaviour. · Spend family time together for example, have meals together and have common and light hearted conversations. · Also go out as a family and spend quality time. · Most important of all, family members should show love and affection to each other. · Turn to Allah and make Dua for love and muhabbat in the family. Request your parents to do the same as well. Through patience and perseverance, your siblings will come around and learn to establish a strong connection with Allah Ta'ālā. Insha Allāh. Keep hope in Allah and your efforts will be appreciated by Allah. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Huzaifah Deedat Student Darul Iftaa Lusaka, Zambia Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. ___________________ مسند الشهاب القضاعي- مؤسسة الرسالة (1/ 100) 1 أَخْبَرَنَا الْقَاضِي أَبُو مُحَمَّدٍ عَبْدُ الْكَرِيمِ بْنُ الْمُنْتَصِرِ، بِإِسْنَادِهِ الْمُقَدَّمُ ذِكْرُهُ فِي الْجُزْءِ الْأَوَّلِ، عَنْ زَيْدِ بْنِ خَالِدٍ، عَنِ النَّبِيِّ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ أَنَّهُ قَالَ فِي الْخُطْبَةِ الطَّوِيلَةِ الَّتِي فِيهَا «الشَّبَابُ شُعْبَةٌ مِنَ الْجُنُونِ» ، وَمَا ذَكَرَ مَعَهُ اعتلال القلوب للخرائطي- نزار مصطفى الباز (1/ 103) حَدَّثَنَا أَبُو عَبْدِ اللَّهِ أَحْمَدُ بْنُ مُحَمَّدِ بْنِ غَالِبٍ قَالَ: حَدَّثَنَا مُحَمَّدُ بْنُ عُبَيْدٍ الْمَدَنِيُّ، وَعَبْدُ الْعَزِيزِ بْنُ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ، عَنْ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ نَافِعٍ، عَنْ عَبْدِ اللَّهِ بْنِ مُصْعَبِ بْنِ خَالِدِ بْنِ يَزِيدَ بْنِ خَالِدِ بْنِ الْجُهَنِيِّ، عَنْ أَبِيهِ، عَنْ جَدِّهِ زَيْدِ بْنِ خَالِدٍ أَنَّ رَسُولَ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ قَالَ: «الشَّبَابُ شُعْبَةٌ مِنَ الْجُنُونِ، وَالنِّسَاءُ حِبَالَةُ الشَّيْطَانِ المقاصد الحسنة (ص: 401)- دار الكتاب العربي حَدِيث: الشَّبَابُ شُعْبَةٌ مِنَ الْجُنُونِ، وَالنِّسَاءُ حِبَالَةُ الشَّيْطَانِ، أبو نُعيم في الحلية عن عبد الرحمن بن عابس، وابن لال عن ابن مسعود، والديلمي عن عبد اللَّه بن عامر في حديث طويل، والتيمي في ترغيبه عن زيد بن خالد، كلهم مرفوعا به، وحبالة بالكسر هو ما يصاد به من أي شيء كان، وجمعه حبائل، والرواية به أكثر أي مصائده، ولا ينافيه ما روينا عن سفيان الثوري من قوله: يا معشر الشباب عليكم بقيام الليل، فإنما الخير في الشباب، لكونه محلا للقوة، والنشاط غالبا، ومن شواهد الحديث: عجب ربك من شاب ليست له صبوة، وسيأتي الجامع الصغير وزيادته (ص: 7171، بترقيم الشاملة آليا) الخرائطي فِي اعتلال الْقُلُوب) عَن زيد بن خالد الجهني.( الشَّبَابُ شُعْبَةٌ مِنَ الجُنُونِ وَالنِّسَاءُ حُبَالَةُ الشَّيْطَانِ

Sayyiduna Muaawiya Radhiyallahu Anhu STATUS AND PERSONALITY The Sahabah Kirām are those eminent people concerning whom Almighty Allah has declared his eternal satisfaction and blessings in the Holy Qur'an. Therefore, anyone who challenges the honour and status of these great souls has indeed challenged the decree of Almighty Allah. 1. Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah Radhiyallahu Anhu narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, "Do not revile my companions. By (Allah) in Whose Hand my soul is! If any one of you spends gold (piled up) like (mount) 'Uhud it will not equal to a pint of their charity, nor its half." (Muslim) 2. Sayyiduna Abdullah Ibn Umar Radhiyallahu Anhu narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, "When you see anybody reviling and cursing my companions, you must say, 'May Allah's curse be upon your mischief and malice'." (Tirmidhi) 3. Sayyiduna Abdullah Ibn Mughaffal Radhiyallahu Anhu narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallamsaid, "Fear Allah in every matter concerning my Companions. Do not make them the targets (of your criticism) after me. Whoever loves them, loves them out of love for me, and whoever hates them, hates them out of hatred for me. Whoever harms them has indeed harmed me and whoever harms me has harmed Allah; and whoever harms Allah, it is imminent that Allah will seize him." (Tirmidhi) Whilst the collective sacrifices and favours of the Sahābah upon the Ummah are innumerable, some individuals from this shining galaxy excelled in their services to the Deen of Allah and especially to the Ummah more than others. Amongst these champions of Islam was Amir Muāwiyyah Ibn Abi Sufyan Radhiyallahu Anhu, whose status and prestige in the blessed court of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam was such that he was amongst those elite companions to whom the magnanimous task of preserving the divine revelation of the Qur’an in written form was entrusted. GLAD TIDINGS FROM THE BLESSED LIPS OF RASŪLULLAH SALLALLAHU ALAYHI WA SALLAM The love and affection which the beloved Rasūl of Allah had for him may be gauged from the following supplications and incidents: Once Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam supplicated, “O Allah! Make Muāwiyyah a means of guidance, make him one who is on guidance and bless people with guidance through him.” (Tirmidhi) On another occasion Rasūlullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam sat on his camel and asked Hadhrat Muāwiyyah Radhiyallahu Anhu to sit behind him. After a while Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam remarked: Muāwiyyah! Which part of your body is touching with mine?” He answered: “O Rasulullah! My bosom.” Thereupon, Rasūlullah i supplicated: “O Allah! Bless him with great knowledge.” (al-Tārikh al-Islām of Imam al-Dhahabi) Once our beloved Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam made the following Dua: “O Allah! Endow Muāwiyyah with special knowledge of the Qur’an and save him from any afflictions.” (Ibn Hibbān) His sister, Ummul Mu’mineen, Ummi Habibah was the beloved wife of Rasūlullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam. Once Rasūlullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam came home and found that Muāwiyyah Radhiyallahu Anhu was visiting his sister. Rasūlullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam asked her if she loved him, she replied that he is her brother and surely she loves him. It was on this occasion that Muāwiyyah Radhiyallahu Anhu received the following glad tidings, when the Nabi of Allah said, “Allah and his Rasūllove Muāwiyyah as well.” (al-Tabrāni) CONCLUSION Sayyiduna Muāwiyyah Radhiyallahu Anhu was a Sahābi (companion) of great stature and benevolence. Sadly, Muāwiyyah Radhiyallahu Anhu is one such individual from amongst the Sahābah whose great personality, distinguished qualities and astounding credentials have not only been ignored but arduous efforts took place in concealing his accomplishments. Most of the allegations for which he has been unjustifiably been blamed of take their roots in the difference of opinion that arose between Muāwiyyah and Ali Radhiyallahu Anhuma. We have to realize that on both sides were imminent sahabah al-Kirām, all of whom were driven by the sincere belief of the veracity of their respective causes. The preposterous accusations levelled at him have actually been promoted by antagonist Shias and baseless historical records. Unfortunately, many a time our own Muslim brethren fall prey to these cynical propagandas and in turn join the accursed group of people who vilify the chosen companions of Rasūlullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam. May Almighty Allah protect us all. After the battle of Siffīn, Ali Radhiyallahu anhu said: “O people do not disregard the leadership of Muāwiyyah, for verily, if you lose him it would be as tragic as losing the limbs of your bodies.” (al-Bidayah wa al-Nihayah) Qādhi Ayādhhas quoted in his al-Shifā: If we claim to revere and honour Rasūlullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam, we must also respect his Sahaabah. As Muslims, it is compulsory on us to appreciate the fact that we owe them, to follow them and to ask for forgiveness on their behalf. No doubt, they had their differences but we have no right to comment on them. We must beware of the stories forges by Shias, innovators and biased historians, whose mischievous motive is to slander the sahabah al-Kirām. We must always speak of their virtues and hold our tongues from uttering any possible comment that might insult their status. May Almighty Allah protect the Ummah from the enemies of Rasūlullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam and his companions and may Allah Ta’ala bless us with sincere love for them. Ameen PREPARED BY: DARUL ULOOM ZAKARIYYA

Part Eleven The First Muslim to Perform Hijrah with his Family (continued): When Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) intended performing Hijrah to Abyssinia, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) said to him, “Take Hazrat Ruqayyah (radhiyallahu ‘anha) with you. I feel that each of you will support and encourage the other to persevere.” After a while from the time of their departure, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) asked Hazrat Asmaa (radhiyallahu ‘anha), the respected daughter of Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), to enquire regarding them. After enquiring, she found Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) with her respected father, Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu). She said, “O Rasul of Allah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam)! I received information that Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) is presently travelling in the direction of the sea in the condition that his respected family, Hazrat Ruqayyah (radhiyallahu ‘anha) is seated on a saddled donkey.” Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) became pleased and said, “O Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu)! They are the first people in the world to perform Hijrah in the path of Allah Ta‘ala after the two Ambiyaa, Nabi Lut (‘alaihis salaam) and Nabi Ebrahim (‘alaihis salaam), performed Hijrah.” (Mustadrak Haakim #6849)

The Tragedy and Massacre of Ghouta Ghouta has been honoured as “the great homeland” and “one of the best towns” by the Messenger ﷺ. Don’t let its cries go unheard. Sayyiduna Abu Dardaa Radhiyallahu Anhu reports, “I heard the Prophet Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam say, “The day of the great massacre [malhamatal kubra] (day of great number of deaths) is in the camp of the Muslims. In a land which is called al ghouta. Within it is a city which is said of it Damascus. The great homeland of the Muslims.” [Hakim] “The headquarters of the Muslims on will be in Ghouta on the day of al-malhama (the massacre), besides the city of Damascus is among the best towns of Ash Sham (Syria).” [Abu Dawud] A Medic's Testimony: The horrifying reality of working in Syria's Eastern Ghouta 3 APRIL 2018 • 4:44PM I don't know whether writing this is a good idea. I’m not sure whether anything I say will ever be heard – and even if my words do reach the outside world, I have no reason to believe that anything will change. But I will share my story anyway, for it is the story of every man, woman and child who once lived in this land. I was born in Douma, Eastern Ghouta, into a family who has lived here for generations. My father owns a grocery shop, which he inherited from his father before him. Family here is everything. Seven years ago, I wouldn’t have believed that one day people would die of hunger in Ghouta - Syria’s green-belt which enjoys endless sun and the richest soil in the region. People used to say that ‘nobody starves in Damascus, while the sun is shining on its gardens’. These memories are a distant reality now, a tempting dream. When the unrest erupted, I can confidently say that nobody knew where this road was going to lead, or the scale of terror that would be unleashed. At the beginning, almost every aspect of normal life ground to a halt. But this didn’t last long - we found ways to carry on living, to adapt. When schools closed, students continued learning in basements, and when hospitals were bombed, doctors performed surgery in their own homes. Everyone had a purpose, and I soon found mine – I started working in a hospital as a student doctor. It was in the emergency room (ER) that I first witnessed the cost of this war. I have seen the effect of every type of weapon on the human body, from bullets and bombs, to chemical attacks. Some days I saw a sniper’s casualties arrive one by one, and other days whole neighbourhoods or families arrived together. Sometimes there would be dozens of injured patients bleeding on the floor, waiting for us to help them. We would run between them, trying to save several at once, always trying to assess who has a chance of survival, who we should help first. When children were brought into the ER, this is where the sorrow becomes limitless. A child would be brought to hospital, small and clinging to a life that he has barely started living. He has already lost family members, even though he hasn’t yet learnt to say their names. He has lost a house he will not remember. He doesn’t understand why he’s there, why the pain is not going away, why his mother is not beside him. I’ve seen children like this every day. I remember them all, and I know them by name. There was Nour who had both of his legs amputated, and would stare at where his legs should have been, and cry. There was Abdul, who lost an arm at just eighteen months old. These are the cases that break me. I’ve lost count of the times that I’ve seen mothers crying for their lost babies, fathers collapsing at their child’s cold feet, children refusing to let go of their lifeless sibling’s hand, and people who died in anonymity with nobody to mourn them in their final moments. And yet children’s resilience and strength has always left me speechless. Children as young as seven would ask to leave the hospital after being treated, so that they can find food for their families – they would be worried that their siblings would go hungry without them. The siege began in 2013. At the time, we didn’t understand what that meant. We could not yet imagine that we would become prisoners in our own homes, or that food and water would become scarce, whilst disease became rife. A new Stone Age was forced upon us. Soon, everyone was starving, terrified and exhausted. People would farm what was left of their land and wait hungrily for the harvest season – only for the fields to be scorched by planes just before they could harvest it. We’ve seen days when the only food available to eat was the grass we used to feed our cows. Many didn’t even have that. We’ve had to endure unrelenting attacks including bombs in populated areas, the destruction of our schools and hospitals, and a devastating chemical attack that killed hundreds. Our children have been forced to abandon their childhoods. Many carry the burden of trying to make a living for their families, or having to beg on the street to bring home a piece of bread. It is a common sight to see children rummaging through rubbish, looking for something to eat. They think it’s normal to spend their lives dodging bombs, losing their homes and loved ones, or being scared and hungry. Some have gone their entire lives without going for a picnic with their family, or playing in a park. On the rare occasions that fresh fruit and biscuits reached the markets, it wasn’t a treat, but a painful reminder of everything we have lost. Our children who knew nothing but life under siege didn’t know how to peel a banana, or what chocolate tastes like. The war has changed everyone and everything in Eastern Ghouta. Things we thought we could never live without proved to be unimportant, and all our priorities have changed. Now, the first priority is to survive, and the second is to stay sane. The first is out of our control, and the second is a game of chance. But in our darkest days, we support each other. Whenever someone falls, many hands reach down to help them stand up again. In Eastern Ghouta, we have all been pushed to our limits. Everyone has lost something, or someone. And yet, everyone still clings to a precious thread of hope, as we know it is the only reason to take another breath. So we have looked after this hope the way we used to look after our olive trees – it is our last and most valuable currency. Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Listening Attentively A Requisite for ‘Ilm and Hidāyah By Shaykh-ul-Hadīth, Hadrat Mawlānā Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullāh The great muhaddith and faqīh, Sufyān Ibn ‘Uyaynah rahimahullāh states: The first step towards acquiring ‘ilm is istimā‘ i.e. listening attentively, then to understand, then to memorise/remember, then to act upon it and propagate. The importance of listening with full attention is the first step and an essential requisite for success in acquiring ‘ilm, which is the prerequisite to acting according to the Wishes of the Creator. It is for this reason Allāh ta‘ālā used the word istimā‘ (listening with intent) instead of sam‘ (merely to listen with or without intention), followed by the word insāt (to become silent), when stating the adab of listening to the Qur’ān in the following verse: When the Qur’ān is recited, listen to it attentively and be silent, so that you may be showered with mercy. (7:204) Allāh ta‘ālā has promised to bestow His Mercy upon those who listen attentively, which will manifest in the form of the ability to abstain from wrong and engage in good deeds. Allāh ta‘ālā states: ..those who listen to the word attentively (of Allāh ta‘ālā and His Rasūl sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam, and follow (it, knowing that it is) the best of it (of all speech). These are the ones whom Allāh has guided, and these are the ones who possess (true) intelligence (wisdom). (39:18) The importance of istimā‘ can be further understood by how Allāh ta‘ālā addressed Mūsā ‘alayhis salām when sending revelation to him. Allāh ta‘ālā states: I have chosen you (for prophethood), so listen attentively to what is revealed. (20:13) The commentators of the Qur’ān have mentioned that when Mūsā ‘alayhis salām was commanded that he should listen attentively to what is revealed to him, he stood on a rock, leaning against another, placed his right hand over his left, dropped his chin on his chest and stood listening attentively. From the above it is clear how important it is to listen attentively when seeking knowledge or listening to a discourse: only those people will genuinely benefit who listen attentively with sound understanding. How to Listen Attentively The pious predecessors have defined the term istimā‘ in detail. Wahb Ibn Munabbih rahimahullāh further explains the essence of istimā‘ by stating that it comprises of the following: a. Keeping the body motionless. A person should not engage any part of his body in anything whilst listening. He should become motionless. Fidgeting, playing around with clothes and other such actions dilute the concentration one needs when listening to religious discourses and lessons. The Sahābah radhiyallāhu ‘anhum, when in the company of Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam, would sit so still that they were described with the phrase, “as if birds were sitting on their heads.” If a bird was to sit on a person and he desired that it does not fly away, he will need to be extremely still. This was the condition of the Sahābah radhiyallāhu ‘anhum whilst sitting in the company of Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam and listening to him. b. Lowering the gaze. In essence, lowering the gaze means that one should not be distracted by anything and be totally focused towards the lesson being imparted. Hence, a person needs to abstain from looking here and there. Focussing in a manner which will prevent one from being distracted is essential to listening attentively. This can be achieved by either looking down or at the speaker. Furthermore, it portrays interest to the speaker which will further enhance the quality of delivery. c. Attention of the ears. During the discourse or lesson, a person should lend his ears only to the speaker. d. Attention of the mind. Whilst listening, the mind should also be alert and attentive. Being preoccupied or thinking about other things will be a hindrance in giving the required attention. It is for this reason students are advised to disengage from all such activities and devices which occupy the mind. e. Firm intention to act. If a person does not intend to act upon the knowledge being imparted, his attention will not always be completely focused. Having a firm intention to practice will motivate a person to focus on everything being said. When a person adopts such a manner of listening then he will fulfil the requisites of istimā‘ and gain the Pleasure of Allāh ta‘ālā. Allāh ta‘ālā will in return, grant him the correct understanding of knowledge and enlighten his heart with a special Nūr. Consequently, he will become from those who have been guided and granted a deep level of understanding, i.e. wisdom, as stated in the verse of the Glorious Qur’ān: ..those who listen to the word attentively (of Allāh ta‘ālā and His Rasūl sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam, and follow (it, knowing that it is) the best of it (of all speech). These are the ones whom Allāh has guided, and these are the ones who possess (true) intelligence (wisdom). [39:18] May Allāh ta‘ālā grant us the tawfīq to implement the act of listening attentively so that we may acquire true benefit from religious discourses and lessons. Āmīn. © Riyādul Jannah (Vol. 25 No. 9, September 2016)

Q. Assalamu alaykum I would like to know the ruling on a woman sitting to read salaah in the latter stages of her pregnancy? Is it allowed? (Question published as received) A. In general, a pregnant woman is not exempt from standing and performing Salaah. However, if a pregnant woman experiences severe difficulty in making Qiyaam (standing) and/or Ruku and Sajdah, then she may sit and perform Salaah, irrespective if this occurs during the early or latter stages of pregnancy. (Tahtaawi Ala Maraaqil Falaah 1/400/1) 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)

Question and Answer: Q. As is common knowledge there are many ahadith with regard to importance and the obligation of keeping family ties in Islam. Does this also apply with regard to all in-laws such as keeping family ties with father in law , mother in law, brother in law, sister in law, son in law, daughter in law etc. Are the keeping of such ties obligatory on a Muslim and/or If such ties are broken will it earn the displeasure of Allah Rabbul Aalameen. And does it apply to the one who breaks such ties or to all parties concerned. Also this does not create a good environment and makes it difficult for the family member that is married to maintain good family ties. Also what does keeping family ties actually entail. Understandably the relationship is not the same as a blood relationship. Merely greeting for the sake of doing so when meeting by chance or at a function for the sake of pretense in public and avoiding the inlaws as far as possible. Does that mean the ties are broken or maintained. Jazaak Allah Khair, Your Brother in Islam. (Question shortened and published) A. The obligation of maintaining family ties does not extend to one’s in-laws. It rather refers to one’s own family. Nonetheless, a good relationship with one’s in-laws is still important as it impacts on the husband’s relationship with his wife and his children. If the relationship with the in-laws sours then the marriage will not be left unscathed. In most relations in life, a level of patience and tolerance is required. Life is not hiccup-free. When considering the issues you have with your in-laws and how to deal with them, reverse the situation in your mind and imagine your wife in your position having to deal with the same issues with your family. The manner in which you think it appropriate for her to deal with your family is the manner in which you should deal with your in-laws (Do note that a man's sister-in-law is not his Mahram, hence purdah should be maintained between them.) At the end of the day, we all are human which, by default, means that we are flawed. Hence, it is to be expected that someone would say or do something inappropriate or behave in an unbecoming manner. When Allah Ta'ala speaks of the righteous, He says, “Those who give (in charity) in times of both ease and hardship, those who suppress their anger and forgive others; and Allah loves those who do good.” (Surah 3, Verse 134) In this verse, there is a subtle indication that we will be faced with situations that anger and infuriate us, that try our patience and that we will have to deal with people who will offend us. For only if this happens will we be able to gain the virtue of suppressing our anger and forgiving others. We should also consider that our in-laws have given their daughter and their sister to be under our care, to be of assistance to us, to be our partners and faithful companions and to be the mothers of our children. They will be the grandparents, uncles and aunts of our children who will love and care for them. If we cannot have patience with our in-laws and forgive their mistakes, then who will have patience with and who will we forgive? Yes, there are times when the situation becomes really intolerable and to associate with our in-laws only results in misery. In such situations, a cooling of relations is in order and a superficial relationship of merely greeting and exchanging pleasantries when necessary is acceptable. But this is generally not the case. We must ask ourselves, how much have we implemented patience and forgiveness in our relationships with them? Unfortunately, there are many people who are quick to anger and slow to forgive. Yet, the Sunnah of our beloved master, Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam was that he was slow to anger and quick to forgive; a practice that everyone of us, husbands, wives and in-laws, should strive to inculcate in our lives. If we do this, then we will undoubtedly save many marriages from the problems and heartache that they currently face. And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best Mufti Moosa Salie Confirmation: Mufti Ismaeel Bassa (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

Advice to daughter in law

Advice to Mother in law

Ibn Majah, ad-Daraqutnee and others. It was also related by Malik in al-Muwatta This Hadith of our Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلّم tells us we should not be the cause of any harm and nor should it be reciprocated. It is not just physically harming people but includes every form of harm. Wasiyyah (will) – if a person has some money and he wants to give it to someone who is no related to him. He is allowed but he must not exceed the limits (one third). If he exceeds the limits, he will cause harm to the immediate inheritors. Marriage and relationship between husband and wife. As stated in Surah Al-Baqarah Ayah 231 – someone divorces his wife and then he reconciles with her, but his intention in reconciliation is so that he can cause her harm. · Traveling or being away from the family for a long time and without a good reason – this can cause harm to the wife and family. Breastfeeding – in the case of divorce, the husband tries to take the baby away from the mother and not allow her to feed him. This is prohibited. [See Surah Al-Baqarah : Ayah 233] Selling and trading – when someone is in great need of something, the seller (who knows this) sells him at a very high price – this is not allowed. Someone who wants to buy is not good at bargaining, and because of this the seller sells at a very high price, more than it is worth. Burning rubbish on your property on a windy day. This will cause harm to your neighbours. It may cause harm to the environment and the people in the neighbouring countries. This kind of harm should be brought to an end. Building a high building, as mentioned above. Building a high building where it will obstruct air, sunlight, and moonlight, is not allowed because it will cause harm. Digging a well that will cause damage to the well of one’s neighbour. If one needs to dig a well, he should position it a little further away from his neighbour’s. Behaving on one’s property in a way that will harm his neighbours. Causing bad smell to spread from one’s property to his neighbours.

Part Ten The First Muslim to Perform Hijrah with his Family: Hazrat Anas (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) reports that Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) had left for Abyssinia, performing Hijrah with his respected wife, Hazrat Ruqayyah (radhiyallahu ‘anha), the blessed daughter of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam). News of their condition was delayed, and hence Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) became concerned and would come out of Makkah Mukarramah, seeking information in their regard. Eventually, a woman came to Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) and gave him information regarding them. On this occasion, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) remarked, “Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) is the first person to perform Hijrah in the path of Allah Ta‘ala with his family after Nabi Lut (‘alaihis salaam).” (Majma’uz Zawaa’id #14498) Source: Whatisislam.co.za

Rules of Salaah for a Musaafir (traveller) Q. As -Salaam-Hu-Allaikum Can u please explain to me how do I perform my salaat when I'm travelling and when I get to a destination and stay there less than 15days,Jazakallah . KIND REGARDS (Question published as received) A. A person who intends to travel a distance of 78 kilometres or 48 miles or more (from the boundaries of one’s city/town) is categorized as a Musaafir (traveller). If a Musaafir (traveller) intends to remain at a destination for less than fifteen days, he will also be categorized as a Musaafir (traveller). However, if a Musaafir (traveller) intends to remain at a destination for fifteen days or more, he will only be categorized as a Musaafir (traveller) during his journey. Once he reaches his destination, he will not be categorized as a Musaafir (traveller). As such, if you intend to travel a distance of 78 kilometres or 48 miles or more and stay at a destination for less than fifteen days, you will be categorized as a Musaafir (traveller) during your journey and once you reach your destination. A Musaafir (traveller) will make Qasr i.e. perform two Rakaats of Fardh Salaah instead of a four Rakaats Fardh Salaah. Qasr will be made in the Fardh Salaahs of Zuhr, Asr and Esha Salaahs. There is no Qasr in the Fardh Salaahs of Fajr and Maghrib Salaahs. Similarly, there is no Qasr in Witr, Sunnah and Nafl Salaahs. The Sunnah and Nafl Salaahs should be performed if a person is not in a hurry whilst travelling. (Nurul Idaah 99-102) 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)

The Effects of Company Hazrat Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Daamat Barakaatuhu) mentioned Among the most disastrous elements in this path of sulook is company. It is so detrimental that it can take one to the lowest of the low. Company and association is not restricted to just friends and people. It also refers to the things that we read or hear. Many a times a person’s mind is covered with doubts or his thoughts are scattered after reading an article, or listening to a programme or after seeing a picture. These should not be treated as insignificant. In fact, when it happens for the first time, then such articles etc. should be discarded. Some say that it isn’t a ‘train smash’. Yes, it’s not a train smash, it’s a ‘brain smash’, for this person is now perpetually troubled by these doubts and confounding thoughts. ihyauddeen.co.za

WHAT IS THE REALITY BEHIND THE VERSES OF THE SWORD? Question: I always hear from the people who hate and attack Islam that all the verses in the Quran that have to do with peace (like 60:8) are abrogated by later verses (like 9:5). Is this true? And does this mean supposed Muslims from these groups can go out and start murdering people? How do we know that they are wrong? Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. The information in reference is incorrect. The verses of peace are permanently entrenched verses and not abrogated. The verses referring to war are specific and within a specific context. These verses do not override the verses of sanctity of life and human dignity and honour. [1] Regardless of the academic discussion on the verse, the position of Islam is straightforward and simple. Islam is a religion of peace and harmony. Islam does not encourage fighting, enmity and hatred. Rather Islam encourages love and affection. The word “Islam” in addition to meaning submission (to Allah) is derived from the Arabic word “Salam” (peace). The Muslims greet others by saying 'Salaam'. This is understood from the following incidents: The mother of Asma (Radhiallahu Anha) was a disbeliever. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) commanded Asma (Radhiallahu Anha) to maintain ties with her mother. In the Quran, Allah Ta’āla speaks of the incident of Fir’own who was a tyrant ruler and he disliked Musa (Alayhis salaam) and his followers. Allah Ta’āla commanded Musa (Alayhis salaam) to invite Fir’own to his worship and advised him to address Fir’own in kind words, perhaps Fir’own may take heed. VERSES OF THE HOLY QUR’AAN COMMANDING GOOD TREATMENT OF DISBELIEVERS: 1.And have patience against what they (your enemies) say, and withdraw from them in a beautiful manner. (Surah 73, verse 10) 2. So overlook (their wrong-doings) with gracious forgiveness. (Surah 15,verse 85) 3.And do not debate with the People of the Book except in the best of manners; (Surah 29, verse 46) 4.Invite unto your Lord with wisdom and beautiful advice, and engage them in debate in a style that is best. (Surah 16, verse 125) 5.And be kind (to others) like Allah has been kind to you, and seek not mischief in the land; (Surah 28, verse 77) 6.And turn not your face from people in arrogance, nor walk on earth in insolence. Verily Allah does not love every arrogant boaster. (Surah 31, verse 18) 7.And Allah does not forbid you from being kind and just to those (disbelievers) who do not fight you with regards to Religion, nor evict you from your homes. Verily Allah loves those who are just. (Surah 60, verse 8) 8.And if they (The Pagans) desist (from fighting you) then there should be no transgression (against them), except against a people who are oppressors. (Surah 2, verse 193) 9.And if they (the enemy) incline towards peace then you too, incline towards the same. (Surah 8, verse 61) 10.And if any of the Disbelievers seeks refuge from you, then grant him refuge so that he can hear the Word of Allah, then escort him to a place where he is secure. The above are some of the many verses of the Qur’aan that instruct Muslims to be peaceful, loving and kind. Consider the following verse of the Qur’aan on the sanctity of life. Allah Taala says: مِنْ أَجْلِ ذلِكَ كَتَبْنا عَلى بَنِي إِسْرائِيلَ أَنَّهُ مَنْ قَتَلَ نَفْساً بِغَيْرِ نَفْسٍ أَوْ فَسادٍ فِي الْأَرْضِ فَكَأَنَّما قَتَلَ النَّاسَ جَمِيعاً وَمَنْ أَحْياها فَكَأَنَّما أَحْيَا النَّاسَ جَمِيعاً وَلَقَدْ جاءَتْهُمْ رُسُلُنا بِالْبَيِّناتِ ثُمَّ إِنَّ كَثِيراً مِنْهُمْ بَعْدَ ذلِكَ فِي الْأَرْضِ لَمُسْرِفُونَ Translation: Because of this (incident), we decreed (prescribed) for the Bani Israail that whoever kills another for a reason other than (executing a murder of) a soul or (other than executing someone who causes) corruption on the earth (such as those who ridicule the Ambiyaa), then it is as if he had killed all of mankind. Whoever preserves a life, it is as if he has preserved the lives of the entire mankind. Undoubtedly, our Rasool had come to them (to the Bani Israail) with clear signs (miracles). However, many of them overstepped (by oppression, transgression, violence) the limits on earth thereafter (by rejecting the Ambiyaa and even assassinating many of them.) (Surah Al-Maaidah, Aayah 32) And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Muhammad IV Patel Student Darul Iftaa Lusaka, Zambia Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. جلد 4 ص 310 معارف القران [1] پہلی جماعت جو قریش مکّہ کی تھی جنہوں نے میثاق حدیبیہ کو خود توڑ دیا تھا اب یہ کسی مزید مہلت کے مستحق نہ تھے مگر چونکے یہ زمانہ أشهرحرم کا زمانہ تھا جن میں جنگ و قتال منجانب الله ممنوع تھا اس لئے ان کے متعلق تو وو حکم آیا جو سوره توبہ کی پانچویں آیت میں مذکور ہے. فَإِذَا انسَلَخَ الأَشْهُرُ الْحُرُمُ فَاقْتُلُواْ الْمُشْرِكِينَ حَيْثُ وَجَدتُّمُوهُمْ وَخُذُوهُمْ وَاحْصُرُوهُمْ وَاقْعُدُواْ لَهُمْ كُلَّ مَرْصَدٍ فَإِن تَابُواْ وَأَقَامُواْ الصَّلاَةَ وَآتَوُاْ الزَّكَاةَ فَخَلُّواْ سَبِيلَهُمْ إِنَّ اللَّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ. جس کا حاصل یہ تھا کے ان لوگوں نے عہد شکنی کر کر اپنا کوئ حق باقی نہیں چوڑا مگر أشهرحرم کا احترام بہرحال ضروری ہے. اس لئے أشهرحرم ختم ہوتے ھی یا وو جزیرہ العرب سے نکل جاییں یا مسلمان ہو جاییں ورنہ ان سے جنگ کی جاییں گی. تفسير الطبري = جامع البيان ت شاكر (14/ 133) 16473- حدثنا بشر قال، حدثنا يزيد قال، حدثنا سعيد، عن قتادة قوله: (إلا الذين عاهدتم من المشركين ثم لم ينقصوكم شيئا ولم يظاهروا عليكم أحدا) ، الآية، قال: هم مشركو قريش، الذين عاهدهم رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم زمن الحديبية، وكان بقي من مدتهم أربعة أشهر بعد يوم النحر. فأمر الله نبيه أن يوفي لهم بعهدهم إلى مدتهم، ومن لا عهد له إلى انسلاخ المحرم، ونبذ إلى كل ذي عهد عهده، وأمره بقتالهم حتى يشهدوا أن لا إله إلا الله، وأن محمدًا رسول الله، وأن لا يقبل منهم إلا ذلك تفسير البيضاوي = أنوار التنزيل وأسرار التأويل (3/ 71) إِلَّا الَّذِينَ عاهَدْتُمْ مِنَ الْمُشْرِكِينَ استثناء من المشركين، أو استدراك فكأنه قيل لهم بعد أن أمروا بنبذ العهد إلى الناكثين ولكن الذين عاهدوا منهم. ثُمَّ لَمْ يَنْقُصُوكُمْ شَيْئاً من شروط العهد ولم ينكثوه أو لم يقتلوا منكم ولم يضروكم قط. وَلَمْ يُظاهِرُوا عَلَيْكُمْ أَحَداً من أعدائكم فَأَتِمُّوا إِلَيْهِمْ عَهْدَهُمْ إِلى مُدَّتِهِمْ إلى تمام مدتهم ولا تجروهم مجرى الناكثين. إِنَّ اللَّهَ يُحِبُّ الْمُتَّقِينَ تعليل وتنبيه على أن إتمام عهدهم من باب التقوى تفسیر عثمانی جلد 1ص 541 الإتقان في علوم القرآن

Who are The Blind Followers? Why is Taqlid necessary? This is a book by Shaykh Abu Usamah from South Africa. It covers several major unfounded doubts in the minds of many concerning the issues of following a madhhab (School of Islamic Law). The book is in question and answer format which makes it easier to comprehend. A lot of the discussions have been adapted from “Atharul Hadith” of Shaykh Muhammad ‘Awwamah (may Allah protect him) which has been extremely successful in eradicating many contemporary misconceptions. Download the book – HERE darultahqiq

Qadha/Fidyah for Salaah missed while unconscious Q. A family member was not in a conscious state for 2 months before passing away and was unable to perform Salaah. Is there Fidyah for the Missed Salaahs? (Question summarized and published) A. In principle, if a person had been unconscious for a period of five Salaahs or less, it will be necessary to make Qadha (make up) of the missed Salaahs. In an event of a person passing away in such a state, the Fidyah amount of the missed Salaahs will suffice Inshallah. However, if the period of unconsciousness lasted for six Salaahs or more, Qadha and Fidyah of the missed Salaahs will not be necessary. (Hidaayah 1/78) 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

Part Nine Hijrah to Abyssinia: After Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) accepted Islam, his uncle, Hakam bin Abil ‘Aas bin Umayyah, caught him and shackled him. He said to Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), “Have you turned away from the religion of your forefathers, accepting a new religion? By Allah! I will never release you until you forsake this new religion that you are following!” Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) replied, “By Allah! I will never leave this religion nor will I part from it!” Eventually, when Hakam saw the firmness and determination with which Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) adhered to Islam, he relented and released him. Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) had performed both migrations to Abyssinia with his respected wife, Hazrat Ruqayyah (radhiyallahu ‘anha). (Tabaqaat ibn Sa’d 3/40) Source: Whatisislam.co.za

The Sweetness of Perseverance and the Consequence of Haste by Abdur-Rahman For all our young imams and da’is out there, the following is an important account that highlights the wisdom behind a non-hasty and measured approach to reforming opinions and delivering your da’wa. For all our young imams and da’is out there, the following is an important account that highlights the wisdom behind a non-hasty and measured approach to reforming opinions and delivering your da’wa. More often than not, local traditions and opinions held for generations cannot be changed in a short amount of time. It requires great amounts of patience, knowledge, tact and wisdom and above all time. Many of us, with youthful vigor and ‘ilmi zeal, sometimes want to change thing overnight and become greatly depressed when it backfires. The account below may also be helpful for those who have found guidance themselves and would like their parents, siblings, spouse, or friends to also be spiritually enlightened. اَلْأَنَاةُ مِنَ اللهِ وَالْعَجَلَةُ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “Calmness and patient deliberation is from Allah and haste is from Satan” (Tirmidhī). This in an account of the insight and prudence of the Great Imam Abu Hanifa and how his advice is played out by two of his students and the clear consequences of each. The early biographer and historian Saymari relates that Yusuf ibn Khalid al-Samti came from Basra to Kufa and studied jurisprudence under Imam Abu Hanifa. When it was time to return the Imam advised him: “When you reach Basra you will come upon people who already have their leaders [and scholars] that they follow. Do not be hasty in taking up a pillar [in the mosque] and attracting a class [to yourself there], saying, ‘Abu Hanifa said this and Abu Hanifa said that. If you do this your class will be dispersed [very quickly].” Samti left for Basra and felt confident to take up a position [as a teacher] by one of the pillars [of the mosque]. Doing this he began to relate from Abu Hanifa. However, he was very quickly forced to leave his teaching. After this, no one took the name of Abu Hanifa until another senior student of the Imam, Zufar ibn al-Hudhayl, returned to Basra. He began by first sitting in the company of the established shaykhs of the city. When the need arose he would provide them with input about additional support and proofs for their opinions. They liked this very much. He would then say, ‘There is another opinion on this issue that is better than this’ and would cite it and provide evidences for it without revealing to them that it was the opinion of Abu Ḥanīfa being cited. Eventually, these opinions found a place in their hearts and he finally revealed to them that they were the opinion of Imam Abū Hanifa. Their response was now that they were sound opinion and it did not matter who had formulated them. This remained his approach until he had convinced them all of the opinions of Abu Hanifa. He did not live very long and died within either years of the Imam’s death in 158 AH (Akhbar Abu Hanifa wa Ashabuhu p. 104; Al-Madkhal 1:119). zamzam academy