ummtaalib

Mustahabb (rewardable) fasts of the Year Besides the fard (obligatory) fast of Ramadan, there are various Nafl (optional) fasts that Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) kept throughout the year. We too can make an intention of following in His foot steps this year Insha Allah. The Sahabah (radiyallahu ‘anhum) mention that, at times, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) would fast so much that we thought he would not stop and at times he (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) did vice versa. (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 1141, 1972) The Fuqaha (jurists) have classified these fasts into 2 types; a) Sunnat and b) Mustahabb (preferable). The fast of the 9th and 10th or 10th and 11th of Muharram has been classified as a Sunnah fast. (Durrul Mukhtar vol.2 pg.374; Maraqiul Falah pg.350). By fasting on the 10th, one year’s minor sins are forgiven. (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 2000-2007; Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 2838) The following fasts are classified as Mustahabb (meritorious): 1. Every Monday and Thursday. (Maraqiul Falah pg.350; Alamgiri vol.1 pg.201). Virtue: Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) chose to fast these days because the deeds of the Ummah are presented to Allah Ta’ala on these 2 days. (Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 2742; Sahih ibn Khuzaymah, Hadith: 2116-2120) 2. The 13th, 14th and 15th of every month which are known as Ayyamul beedh. (Maraqiul Falah pg.350; Durrul Mukhtar vol.2 pg.375; Alamgiri vol.1 pg.201). Virtue: One who observes these fasts every month will be rewarded as if he fasted his entire lifetime. (Sahih ibn Khuzaymah, Hadith: 2128; Sunan al-Tirmidhi, Hadith: 762; Musnad Ahmad vol.5 pg.140, 252;). However, the 13th of the month of Dhul-Hijjah is excluded. (Imdadul Fatawa) 3. Any three days of each month. (Shami vol.2 pg.375; Tahtawi ala Maraqil falah pg.350; Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 1981; Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 2736, 2739). Virtue: The reward of this fast is same as the previous. In fact this one could be incorporated in the Ayyaamul beedh. (Shami; Sahih ibn Khuzaymah vol.3 pg.303) 4. The 9th of Dhul-Hijjah which is the day of Arafah. However, the Haji who is in Arafah is excluded, because he may be weakened through the fast. If this is not the case, then the Haji may also keep this fast. (Durrul Mukhtar vol.2 pg.375). Some Ulama have classified this as a Sunnah fast just like the 10th of Muharram. (Shami vol.2 pg.375). Virtue: By fasting on this day, two years minor sins will be forgiven. (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 1988; Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 2738-2739) 5. Any six days of Shawwal (month after Ramadan) besides the first of Shawwal; Eid day. (Maraqiul falah pg.350; Alamgiri vol.1 pg.201). Virtue: The one who observes these fasts after observing the fast of Ramadan, will receive the reward of fasting for the entire year. (Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 2750; Sahih ibn Hibban, Hadith: 3634; Sahih ibn Khuzaymah, Hadith: 2114) 6. On Fridays. (Shami vol.2 pg.375; Maraqiul falah pg.350; Alamgiri vol.1 pg.201). However, it is better to fast a day before it or after it as well. (Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 2678; Sahih ibn Khuzaymah, Hadith: 1229;) 7. Saturday and Sunday (together). (Shami vol.2 pg.375-376 refer Sahih ibn Khuzaymah vol.3 pg.318 Hadith: 2167; Sahih ibn Hibban, Hadith: 3616; Mustadrak al-Hakim;) 8. As much as possible in the first half of the month of Sha’ban with no specification on condition that one is confident that this will not weaken him for the fast of Ramadan. (Alamgiri vol.1 pg.201 refer Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 1969; Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 175, 176, 1156) 9. Any or all of the first nine days of Dhul-Hijjah. (Alamgiri vol.1 pg.201). Virtue: The fast of each of these days is equal to the fast of one year. (Sunan Tirmidhi, Hadith: 758, Shu’abul Iman, Hadith: 3758) 10. As much as possible, in the month of Muharram. Virtue: The best fast after Ramadan is the fast of Muharram (Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 2748) For each fast one will receive the reward of fasting for 30 days. (Tabarani; Targheeb vol.2 pg.114) These are most of the fasts that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam), either observed himself or encouraged others to observe. Since fasting is an act of worship in itself, the Fuqaha have stated that it is virtuous for one to fast as much as possible (if he has the strength to do so). Most Beloved Fast in the sight of Allah Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) is reported to have said that the most beloved fasts to Allah is the fast of Dawud (‘alayhis salam); he would fast every alternate day. (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 1131; Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 2731-2732). Note: it is forbidden to fast on the days of both Eids as well as the 11th, 12th, and 13th of Dhul-Hijjah. (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 1990; Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 2666-2672; Sahih ibn Khuzaymah, Hadith: 2100; Shami vol.2 pg.375) and Allah Ta’ala Knows Best al-miftah

Aerial view of the Haram in Makkah (Click on picture to enlarge)

How to Perform Hajj: Step by Step Demonstration Mufti Abdur-Rahman ibn Yusuf Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Final Part Also available on YouTube: Practical Ihram Demonstration by Mufti Abdur-Rahman ibn Yusuf

Hajj: A Journey of Love - A must listen before you go Mufti Abdur-Rahman ibn Yusuf

Hajj & Umrah Lectures from Sacred Learning Listen | Download Length 11.05.06 Hajj Seminar Part I | 70' 31" 11.05.06 Hajj Seminar Part I - Q & A | 02' 38" 11.05.06 Hajj Seminar Part II | 07' 03" 11.05.06 Hajj Seminar Part II - Q & A | 03' 40" 11.05.06 Hajj Seminar Part III | 10' 00" 11.05.06 Hajj Seminar Part III - Q & A | 02' 14" 11.05.06 Hajj Seminar Part IV | 31' 18" 11.05.06 Hajj Seminar Part V | 09' 50" 11.05.06 Hajj Seminar Part VI | 18' 49" 11.05.06 Hajj Seminar Part VI - Q & A | 12' 42" 10.20.06 Visiting Masjid Nabawi | 34' 19" 10.19.06 Performing Hajj: Days 3-6 | 39' 17" 10.18.06 Umrah: Sa'i | 33' 33" 10.18.06 Performing Hajj: Days 1-2 | 58' 50" 10.17.06 Entering the Haram | 41' 37" 10.17.06 Umrah: Tawaf | 57' 18" 10.16.06 Preparing for the Journey - Making a Will | 42' 20" 10.16.06 The Journey Begins | 56' 39" 10.15.06 The Mandate of Hajj | 38' 33" 10.15.06 Preparing for the Journey - General Themes | 51' 19" 10.14.06 The Days of Hajj | 18' 50" 10.14.06 Hajj - The Final Brick | 11' 53" 09.10.06 Preparing for Hajj | 92' 47"

Hajj and Umrah Classroom at Sacred Learning This classroom is dedicated to lectures covering the inner and outer aspects of Hajj and Umrah. Topics include waiting for the days of Hajj, preparing for Hajj and the journey, performing the Hajj itself, and the long-term benefits of Hajj and Umrah in our lives. While these lectures are focused on Hajj and Umrah, many of the lessons and principles discussed are relevant to everyday life. Shaykh Husain has complied essential materials from the lectures in a pocket-sized handbook entitled, Perfecting the Journey. This quick reference guide is useful for anyone traveling to the blessed cities of Makkah and Madinah. Free download is available in PDF and single page versions.

Umrah – A Step by Step Outline by Shaykh (Mufti) Ibrahim Kureshi (HA) READ Hajj – A Step by Step Outline by Shaykh (Mufti) Ibrahim Kureshi (HA) READ

Should men place the hands on the chest in Salah? DarulTahqiq This is a section from al-I’lam bi-takbir al-musalli bi makan wad’il yadayn ba’d takbiratul ihram by the Saudi based writer known as Khalid al-Shaya – [a student of the late Saudi Mufti – Abdal Aziz ibn Baz (d. 1999 CE) and the late Yemeni writer – Muqbil ibn Hadi (d. 2001)]. Al-Shaya has demonstrated that all the known narrations for placing the hands on the chest are weak (da’eef) in some way, and so can not be acted upon, or proven to be the actual Sunna of Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa sallam). Indeed, Imam Ahmed ibn Hanbal (d. 241 AH) said it is makruh (disliked) to place the hands on the chest in Salah, and he also said there is no harm in placing the hands beneath the navel (see Masa’il al-Imam Ahmed – riwaya of Imam Abu Dawud al-Sijistani below). This article is an indirect and useful reply to the claims of the late Nasir al-Albani (d. 1999), Bin Baz (d. 1999), Ibn Uthaymin (d. 2001), Badiud Din al-Sindi (d. 1996) of Pakistan and his students like the late Zubair Ali Za’i (d. 2013), and their inconsequential imitators from the English translators based in the West who have been advocating the placing of the hands upon the chest in Salah. Khalid al-Shaya is from the same sect as those named in this paragraph. Note also, not one of the famous 4 Imams of Islamic jurisprudence (via means of an authentic ascription to them) – Abu Hanifa (d. 150 AH), Malik (d. 179 AH), al-Shafi’i (d. 204 AH) and Ahmed ibn Hanbal (d. 241 AH) is known to have advocated the placing of the hands on the chest in Salah. To illustrate the claim made above, let us look at an authentic report emanating from the legal rulings of the great Hadith Master, Imam Ahmed ibn Hanbal (d. 241 AH), as reported by his disciple, the Imam of Hadith and author of the Sunan, Abu Dawud al-Sijistani (d. 275 AH), as reported in the latters recension of the Masa’il al-Imam Ahmed (pp. 47-48), as follows: قُلْتُ لِأَحْمَدَ ” وَضْعُ الْيَمِينِ عَلَى الشِّمَالِ فِي الصَّلَاةِ تَخْتَارُهُ؟ قَالَ : نَعَمْ “.وَسَمِعْتُهُ ” سُئِلَ عَنْ وَضْعِهِ، فَقَالَ : فَوْقَ السُّرَّةِ قَلِيلًا، وَإِنْ كَانَ تَحْتَ السُّرَّةِ فَلَا بَأْسَ“.وَسَمِعْتُهُ يَقُولُ : ” يَكْرَهُ أَنْ يَكُونَ، يَعْنِي : وَضْعَ الْيَدَيْنِ عِنْدَ الصَّدْرِ Translation: I said to Ahmed, ‘Is your chosen position to place the right hand over the left in prayer?’ He said, ‘Yes.’ And I heard that he was asked about placing it and he said, ‘slightly above the navel. If it is below the navel then there is no harm in it.’ I also heard him saying, ‘It is disliked to be like that’, that is: Placing the hands upon the chest (indas-sadr). Indeed, another famous Imam of hadith known as Ishaq ibn Rahawayh (d. 238 AH) who was not only a contemporary to Imam Ahmed, but also a teacher of Imam al-Bukhari’s (d. 256 AH), has also declared that placing the hands beneath the navel is the strongest position from the perspective of Hadith, as reported by Shaykh Ishaq ibn Mansur al-Kawsaj (d. 251 AH) in his recension of the Masa’il al-Imam Ahmed wa Ishaq ibn Rahawayh. More details are to follow in our forthcoming book in English on this matter. To keep updated on this issue please enter your email in the RSS subscription feed on this website. Peace and blessings be upon our Master Muhammad Abul Hasan Hussain Ahmed January 2014/Rabiul Awwal 1435 AH Download link Read online:

Discharging the damm for covering the face in Ihraam Q: If a woman in the state of Ihraam covers her face, will damm become waajib on her? A: In the state of Ihraam if quarter or more of the face is covered for an entire day or night (i.e. 12 hours) or more then, one damm becomes waajib. If quarter or more of the face is covered for less than one day or night then sadaqa becomes waajib. If less than quarter of the face is covered for an entire day or night or more, then sadaqa becomes waajib. ( يتقي الرفث ) …. ( وقلم الظفر وستر الوجه ) كله أو بعضه كفمه وذقنه نعم في الخانية لا بأس بوضع يده على أنفه… قال الشامى: قوله ( كله أو بعضه ) لكن في تغطية كل الوجه أو الرأس يوما أو ليلة دم الربع منهما كالكل وفي الأقل من يوم أو من الربع صدقة كما في اللباب وأطلقه فشمل المرأة لما في البحر عن غاية البيان من أنها لا تغطي وجهها إجماعا اه أي وإنما تستر وجهها عن الأجانب بإسدال شيء متجاف لا يمس الوجه كما سيأتي آخر هذا الباب وأما في شرح الهداية لابن الكمال من أنها لها ستره بملحفة وخمار وإنما المنهي عنه ستره بشيء فصل على قدره كالنقاب والبرقع فهو بحث عجيب أو نقل غريب مخالف لما سمعته من الإجماع ولما في البحر وغيره في آخر هذا الباب (شامى ج 2 ص 488) و حيثما أطلق الصدقة في جناية الإحرام فهي نصف صاع من بر أو صاع من غيره إلا في جزاء اللبس و الطيب و الحلق و قلم الأظفار إذا فعل شيئا منها كاملا بعذر فهي ثلاثة أصوع طعام أو ستة من غيره و الا في جزاء اللبس اقل من ساعة و جزاء الثلاث و ما دونها من الشعر و الجراد و القمل ففيها تصدق بما شاء و لو يسيرا و الا في قتل المحرم صيدا فهي فيه قدر القيمة (لباب و غيره)… و كل صدقة تجب في الطواف فهي لكل شوط نصف صاع أو في الرمي فلكل حصاة صدقة…(لباب) –(غنية الناسك ص240) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

The Prophetic Mudd PDF

Is there Zakat on Air Miles? Question: Is there Zakat on Air Miles? In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. The Answer: Air Miles, frequent flyer miles or travel points are not subject to Zakat. These reward points will not be added to one’s Zakatable assets regardless of what they can redeem. The Fiqh (jurisprudence of the Answer): Air Miles are not considered to be Māl (wealth) in terms of Shariah and hence are not considered for Zakat[1]. Zakat is only binding on entities which are Māl (wealth) which are productive (nāmī). There are three types of productive wealth designated by Shariah: 1) Money 2) Business stock 3) Animal livestock for growth And Allah Ta’ālā Alone Knows Best Mufti Faraz Adam al-Mahmudi, www.darulfiqh.com

Q. In a Qiraan, Tamattu’ and Ifraad Hajj, is both; Damm-e-Shukr and the slaughtering of a Qurbani animal necessary? A. In a Qiraan and Tamattu’ Hajj (an Umrah and Hajj performed in one Ihraam and two Ihraams respectively), one Damm-e-Shukr is Waajib (necessary). In the case of an Ifraad Hajj (a Hajj performed in one Ihraam only), one Damm-e-Shukr is Mustahab (preferable). (Imdaadul Fataawa 2/197) A Damm-e-Shukr refers to the slaughtering of a small animal for e.g. sheep/goat or one-seventh share of a big animal for e.g. camel/cow/ox/buffalo within the boundaries of the Haram. (Muallimul Hujjaaj 278) On the other hand, Qurbani is Waajib (necessary) upon every Muslim person who is a Muqeem (non-traveller) and who is the owner of Nisaab during the days of Eid(10, 11,12th of Zul-Hijjah) (Hidaayah 4/355). Hence, if during the days of Eid, a person performing a Qiraan, Tamattu’ and Ifraad Hajj is a Muqeem (non-traveller) and he/she possesses the Nisaab, then apart from Damm-e-Shukr being Waajib (necessary) or Mustahab (preferable), the slaughtering of a Qurbani animal will be Waajib (necessary) as well upon him/her. In this case, the Qurbani can be done within the boundaries of the Haram or at one’s country/home. And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best Mufti Ismaeel Bassa Confirmation: Mufti Ebrahim Desai (Islamic rulings on this Q&A newsletter are answered in accordance to the Hanafi Fiqh) Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Q. What is a Qiraan, Tamattu’ and Ifraad Hajj? Can it be done by a South African and a resident of Makkah Mukarramah too? Can everyone do it? Answer. A Qiraan Hajj refers to a person donning the Ihraam with the intention of performing Umrah and Hajj with one Ihraam during the months and days of Hajj; i.e. even after performing Umrah, the person will remain in Ihraam until Hajj is performed. A Tamattu’ Hajj refers to a person donning the Ihraam with the intention of performing Umrah and Hajj with two Ihraams during the months and days of Hajj; i.e. after performing Umrah, the person will come out of Ihraam and will don the Ihraam for the second time to perform Hajj. An Ifraad Hajj refers to a person donning the Ihraam with the intention of performing only Hajj during the months and days of Hajj. It is permissible for Aafaaqis (everyone who resides outside of the Meeqat), thus including South African Hujjaj to perform the Qiraan, Tamattu’ and Ifraad Hajj. It is more virtuous to perform a Qiraan Hajj (provided one is able to abide by the laws of Ihraam), then a Tamattu’ Hajj and then an Ifraad Hajj respectively. However, a resident of Makkah Mukarramah may only perform an Ifraad Hajj. (Muallimul Hujjaaj 97) Note: The donning of one or two Ihraams refers to the intentions of Ihraam and does not refer to one or two sets of Ihraam clothing. The months and days of Hajj are the months of Shawwal, Zul-Qa’dah and the first ten days of Zul-Hijjah. And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best Mufti Ismaeel Bassa Confirmation: Mufti Ebrahim Desai (Islamic rulings on this Q&A newsletter are answered in accordance to the Hanafi Fiqh) Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN)

How should the ring of a woman (or man) be worn? Q: Is it Sunnah for women that when they wear their rings, they should wear it with the front facing inwards (i.e. the stone of the ring facing inwards) as men are supposed to wear their rings? A: Men are supposed to wear their rings in this manner (i.e. with the stone of the ring facing inwards). As far as women are concerned, they do not need to wear their rings in this manner, rather it is permissible for them to wear their rings in the normal manner. And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best. ويجعله لبطن كفه في يده اليسر وقيل اليمنى إلا أنه من شعار الروافض فيجب التحرز عنه قهستاني وغيره قال الشامي : وله ( ويجعله ) أي الفص لبطن كفه بخلاف النسوان لأنه تزين في حقهن هداية (رد المحتار6/ 361) باب الخاتم للنساء وكان على عائشة خواتيم ذهب - عن ابن عباس رضي الله عنهما شهدت العيد مع النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم فصلى قبل الخطبة قال أبو عبد الله وزاد ابن وهب عن ابن جريج فأتى النساء فجعلن يلقين الفتخ والخواتيم في ثوب بلال (صحيح البخاري رقم 5880) وعن عل​ي رضي الله عنه قال نهاني رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم أن أتختم في إصبعي هذه أو هذه قال فأومأ إلى الوسطى والتي تليها . رواه مسلم ( إلى الوسطى والتي تليها ) أي المسبحة ولم يثبت في الإبهام والبنصر رواية عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم عن الصحابة والتابعين فيثبت ندبه في الخنصر وإليه جنح الشافعية والحنفية ذكره ميرك وظاهر القياس أن لبسه في الإبهام والبنصر منهي بالنسبة إلى الرجال دون النساء وقال النووي يكره للرجل جعل الخاتم في الوسطى والتي تليها كراهة تنزيه وأما المرأة فلها التختم في الأصابع كلها رواه مسلم (مرقاة 8/ 186) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

Q. In contemporary medical surgery, cauterization is used. Cautery is the use of electric current (mono-polar or bipolar) to stop the bleeding of blood vessels during surgery. It is also used during telescopic surgery to coagulate larger blood vessels that feed organs like ovaries, uterus, gall bladder, appendix etc. after which organs are removed. In most cases, there are no alternatives. Is the use of contemporary cauterization in medical surgery permissible? A. We have consulted doctors in this regard and we have concluded that the use of cauterization in contemporary medical practice is permissible. More so, in the case of there being no alternative to it for medical reasons. (Sharhu Maa’nil Aathaar 5/488) And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best Mufti Ismaeel Bassa Confirmation: Mufti Ebrahim Desai (Islamic rulings on this Q&A newsletter are answered in accordance to the Hanafi Fiqh) Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN)

The Islamic perspective in regard to holding wedding functions in a hall Q: Why do certain Ulama discourage from holding wedding functions or any other function in a hall? I don't see any problem in using the hall as a venue to host one's functions. Could you please explain to me the correct Islamic perspective in this issue? A: We have prepared a detailed article in regard to holding wedding functions in a hall. Below are the details of the article: Every aspect of the religion of Islam is completely perfect, unique and sublime. In order for one to become a perfect believer and an embodiment of Islam, he is required to practise on every aspect of Islam in the proper manner. Likewise, just as it is vital for the proper functioning of the human body that all the limbs function harmoniously, similarly in order for one to enjoy the true light of Islam, it is essential for one to adhere to every aspect of Islam. While every limb and organ of the human body plays an important role, the most important and essential element is the soul. The soul enables all parts of the human body to function effectively. Once the soul is removed, the human body, with all its faculties, will cease to function. Similarly, though every aspect of Islam is indispensable, the soul of Islam is the Mubaarak Sunnah of Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam). When the Sunnah is removed, it is akin to a dead body without a soul. On the momentous occasion of nikaah, the aspect which creates true happiness and draws immense barakah is to conduct the nikaah in accordance with the Sunnah. The Sunnah advocates that the nikaah should be conducted in the manner in which Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) conducted his nikaah, with the highest level of hayaa and simplicity. In the golden era of Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam), the nikaah would be conducted in the Musjid after which a waleemah would be held in the homes. Nikaah was such a simple and informal affair that only those who happened to be present witnessed the nikaah. Elaborate arrangements would not be made to call people from far and wide to participate in the nikaah and waleemah. In many Ahaadith, we find that Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) was unaware of the nikaah of some Sahaabah who got married in Madinah Munawwarah though he was also present in the Mubaarak city. A cursory glance at current day nikaahs reveals that Muslims have drifted very far from the standard set by Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam). The wedding affair spans over a few days and includes various customary functions viz. a mehndi party, bridal shower, reception by the girl’s party, etc. In most cases, these functions are held in a hall, thereby resembling the kuffaar weddings. Intermingling of sexes, music (or at times playing nazams which resemble music), photography and video filming are just few of the many wrongs that take place in such an environment. At times, the bride is escorted into the hall and walked down the aisle by her father, brother, or even non-mahram cousins so that all may view her. While she is walking down the aisle, if music is not played then it is generally replaced by nazams or qiraat. Sometimes the bride and groom even shake hands, hug or kiss in full view of the audience after which the bride is seated on the stage for the guests to admire. When examined closely, one will realize that the theme and atmosphere of such a wedding is very much like that of a church wedding. Another new practice which has evolved is that of a separate purda or hijaab section being reserved in one corner of the hall for those who are purda conscious (implying that true Islam has no place in the main function and has therefore been sidelined). Furthermore, the Qur’an is sometimes recited on the stage to give the function an Islamic flavour, despite the overall gathering being one of wholesale sin, thus showing gross disrespect to the words of Allah Ta’ala and Deen. It is a common observation that Salaah is delayed or made qadha in such gatherings. Large amounts of money are spent and a considerable amount of time is dedicated to ensuring that the décor and colour scheme are appealing and attractive. The manner in which the nikaah used to take place in the time of Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam), with simplicity and hayaa, is no longer seen in the ummah. Hazrat Aaisha (Radiyallahu Anha) reports that Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: “The nikaah with the most barakah is that nikaah wherein the least expense was incurred.” (Musnad Ahmad) How can a nikaah where the commands of Allah Ta’ala and Nabi (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) are flouted ever be a means of blessings and happiness? Muslims should therefore take it upon themselves to advise family and friends to keep their nikaahs simple and in accordance with the Sunnah. And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best. عن عائشة أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قال إن أعظم النكاح بركة أيسره مؤنة (مسند أحمد رقم 24529) عن أنس أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم رأى عبد الرحمن بن عوف وعليه ردع زعفران فقال النبى صلى الله عليه وسلم مهيم فقال يا رسول الله تزوجت امرأة قال ما أصدقتها قال وزن نواة من ذهب قال أولم ولو بشاة (سنن أبي داود رقم 2111) عن ابن عمر قال قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم من تشبه بقوم فهو منهم. (سنن أبي داود رقم 4033) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

Simple Steps to a Healthier, Happier You! By Umm Ayman Complete health should be a balanced and holistic endeavour. Below are just a few concise steps toward achieving full physical, mental, emotional, spiritual, social and even financial well-being and contentment, Inshaa-Allah. 1. ALWAYS SAY BISMILLAH (I BEGIN IN THE NAME OF ALLAH) The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) taught us: ‘Every deed that does not begin with BISMILLAH - In the name of Allah, is incomplete, (devoid of blessings)’. Hence, with yaqeen (conviction), whatever you decide to do or consume, will be blessed, and no harm will come to you if it is not Allah’s decree. Yet to aid in this conviction you must most certainly make use of your ‘aql (intelligence) and use what has been prescribed. 2. MAKE GOOD INFORMED CHOICES. That’s right. Ask the well-informed and experienced, read a book, do research etc. Keep an open mind, cross reference and always, always verify – until you are satisfied that you have done your best. The rest is in Allah’s hands.Thus does Allah (SWT) advise us; ‘Then ask those who do know; if you, indeed, do not.’ (Qur’an Surah An-Nahl, Verse 43) 3. EAT WHOLESOME FOODS. Drink more water and eat more fruits and vegetables. Avoid grease, salt and sugars. Consume less refined, mass produced hazards and opt more for fresh, natural homemade goodness. Eat moderately. Read the labels. Know what’s going into your body. Above all, enjoy what Allah has bestowed on you. ‘Eat of the wholesome foods we have provided you and give thanks to Allah.’ (Qur’an :Surah Al Baqara, Verse 172) 4. EXERCISE YOUR MIND. Don’t get stuck in a rut, don’t be idle, and don’t overload your brain with irrelevant nonsense. Don’t become complacent and satisfied that you know enough. The brain, like any muscle, atrophies with disuse. So utilize that grey matter. Learn something new. Challenge yourself. Besides, it’s quite true: an idle mind is the devil’s workshop. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) instructs us: ‘Seeking knowledge is an obligation upon every male and female Muslim’ (Hadith Ibn Majah & Bayhaqi) And in quite a few instances in the Holy Quran, Allah (SWT) admonishes us: ‘Why then do you not make use of your intellect?’ (Qur’an -Surah Al-Anbiya, Verse 67) 5. GET SOME SUNSHINE AND FRESH AIR. Breathe deeply and get some exercise. Appreciate Allah’s creation. Simultaneously revel in the miracle that is your own body, as well as the majesty of nature, by getting out there and getting a move on it! Physical exercise is an essential part of achieving good health. Our esteemed Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) has admonished: ‘Your body has a right over you.’ (Hadith-Bukhari) 6. FIND COMFORT AND PLEASURE IN WORSHIP. Increase such deeds that bring you closer to Allah and those actions too that declare your love for The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him).Says Allah (SWT): ‘Behold, by the remembrance of Allah shall you achieve contentment of heart.’ (Qur’an-Surah Ar-Ra'd, Verse 28) With proper application, Salah (prayer) is that connecting line between Creator and creation. Performance of Salah, as it is required of us, and turning towards it in times of both thankfulness and need, is what adds lustre and essence to our lives. Inculcating the Sunnah(practices) of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) too, adds dimension to our lives. Our actions and interactions then have better value. 7. JOIN FAMILY TIES AND KEEP GOOD COMPANY. Strengthen bonds with relatives, mend ties with loved ones and cultivate such relationships that will bring about righteousness. Enjoy lively conversations, create and uphold good customs and play with your children and each other. It’s a Sunnah! Many, many ahadith enumerate the virtues of joining ties of family and friendship. Among the dos and don’ts, one stands out; says The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him): ‘And be, oh slaves of Allah, as brethren.’(Hadith –Muslim) 8. GIVE A LITTLE OF YOURSELF. Share your time, money, skills or knowledge. Every little bit makes a difference, and no one benefits more than you. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) is reported to have said: ‘Smiling at your brother is a charity, enjoining good and prohibiting evil is a charity, giving directions to a lost person is a charity, removing harmful objects, thorns or bones from the roadway is a charity, and emptying from your bucket into your brother’s (to spare him the effort of filling his own) is also counted as an act of charity for you’.(Hadith Tirmidhi) The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) is also reported to have said: ‘Giving charity does not, in any way, decrease your wealth’. (Hadith-Muslim) In fact, it increases the barakah (blessings) in one’s wealth, if Allah wills, as well as earning you multiple rewards. Giving sadaqah (charity) is a means of purifying one’s wealth and self. 9. BE YOUR VERY BEST. AFTER ALL, ALL YOU CAN DO IS TRY! We all have good days. We most certainly have bad days too. We make mistakes, we get hurt. We feel disappointment in ourselves or anger toward others. Things break, people pass away. Accept that this too comes from Allah, and this too shall pass. Accept that you’re human. Accept the pain, grief, anger or disappointment. Feel it, absorb it. Then take a breath and put your best foot forward. Life goes on, you can overcome. Your weaknesses are what make you human. Your humanity is your strength.Says Allah: ‘Allah wants to make things lighter for you, and mankind has been created weak.’(Qur’an Surah An-Nisa, Verse 28) Yet when the angels, in bewilderment, asked Allah why he would place a being as flawed as man on earth, Allah answered: ‘Truly I know what you know not.’ (Qur’an Surah Al-Baqara, Verse 30) It is because, despite our shortcomings, we constantly strive to overcome and excel. 10. REFLECT AND GIVE THANKS. Take stock of yourself. Not only will it give you a clearer perspective and better ideas on how to proceed, it will also bring the realization of how fortunate indeed you are. Even if your circumstance seems so dire at this moment, give thanks that you are among a tiny percentage of the world’s population who has received education, enabling you to read this. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) is reported to have said: ‘The best form of dua is to say ALHAMDULILLAH (All praise is due to Allah)’.(Hadith) Surely, giving sincere praise and thanks to a benefactor can only increase their benevolence upon you. 11. BE SINCERE. Be true to Allah. Be true to people. Only then can you, in fact, be true to yourself. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) has taught us: ‘Actions are judged by its intentions, and every man will have but what he intended.’ (Hadith Bukhari & Muslim) 12. BE CLEAN. Pay attention to your physical hygiene. Keep your environment clean. Use soap and water or a broom. Purify your mind and soul. Make istigfaar (seek forgiveness and increase thikrullah-remembrance of Allah). ‘Truly, Allah loves those who turn unto Him inrepentance and loves those who purify themselves (through bathing, cleaning, and washing).’ (Qura’n Surah Al-Baqara, Verse 222) ‘Cleanliness is half of faith.’ (Hadith Muslim) 13. TAKE REST. Adequate sleep is necessary for optimum performance. Relieve yourself from stress. Relax with your loved ones among the soothing natural bounties all around. It has been reported that The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to make it a habit to take the afternoon for rest and relaxation, often at the homes of family or friends. ‘And We have made for you, your sleep as a means of rest.’ (Qur’an Surah An-Naba’a, Verse 9) Thus truly, rest is among Allah’s gifts to us. A lot of what has been mentioned above is perhaps well-known or common sense, yet indeed, ‘a reminder is beneficial to the believers’ (Qur’an Surah Adh-Dhariyaat, Verse 55) And Allah knows best…! www.eislam.co.za

Feeling Overwhelmed with Multiple Demands? Read this.... By Ahmad Jabir Tarin Throughout life human beings face an array of challenges ranging from family, work, social, spiritual-religious, and other interpersonal stressors. In the midst of the intensity of those challenges a feeling of hopelessness can emerge for many of us. Hopelessness can be described as the overwhelming feeling of dread, gloom and doom where individuals may not see any light at the end of the tunnel to their suffering. This can be exacerbated by stress, defined as: the discrepancy between perceived available resources and the environmental demands placed on an individual. In other words, when people feel they don’t have enough resources to deal with their demands. This ongoing feeling of inadequacy in meeting such demands can breed pessimism about the ending of their suffering/stress. Sometimes it can be accompanied by a sense of desperation. A common experience of hopelessness can occur when responsibilities begins to pile up leading to a feeling of being overwhelmed/over-exertion or simply fatigue. Stress is designed to be a short term experiential feeling of hypervigilence that is functionally designed to help us increase our level of energy (i.e. increasing more resources) to meet our demands. However, when it continues for a long period of time, it simply produces exhaustion and can lead to many adverse health problems. According to research done by Professor Liisa Terrill, she found that background stress i.e., more than 2 demanding tasks such as being a stay at home mother, a student, or employed at the same time significantly increases stress levels for women which could lead to a higher risk for coronary heart disease. For many, it can feel like your psychological resources have been exhausted and you are running out of steam. This can lead to a desire to want to give up and just let it all slip out of our hands. Feeling that you are stuck in an inescapable situation whereby investing in one area causes other demands to continue to be unmet and your inability to effectively and efficiently multitask all items continuously. Consider, the sense of personal inadequacy and disappointment one can feel if they always feel like they are never able to keep up. In fact, according to Steeg et al., in a recent journal published in 2015 in the Journal of Affective Disorders, the researchers found that hopelessness is the most commonly diagnosed mental health disorder leading up to self harm (neglecting self-care due to burnout). It is evident by this that psychological research finds that individuals experiencing emotions of hopelessness have a higher risk of inflicting harm on themselves or those around them, simply looking for an escape to life’s problems. Most forms of hopelessness can be common and impact us psychologically, but if you start to notice the following signs (clinical), then it might be wise to seek assistance through therapy: trouble sleeping, feeling sad/depressed all the time, no enjoyment, losing interest, lack of hygiene, feeling trapped, despair, or excessive guilt. As Steeg et al., concluded that the best initiative for caring for individuals with hopeless behavior is therapeutic intervention. However, for most of us it may never get to that clinical threshold, so here are some therapeutic strategies one can take to overcome this through Spiritual Coping. A form of coping that can be integrated is Spiritual Coping. From amongst the many Prophetic discussions in the Islamic tradition, is hopelessness. In fact, consider that anxiety or stress usually centers around the FEAR of what might happen in the future. That is, if I do not clean up my act or meet the demands of my environment then what will happen? Usually we have many concerning thoughts/cognitions that accompany this, keep us up at night. Such as the possibility of not being able to meet our finances, not finishing school, disappointing family members, and the list can go on and on. One therapeutic tactic is to consider WHAT IF. That is, SO what if I do not meet a particular demand? Will it truly be the end of the world? This cognitive exercise can be combined with, a verse in the Quran regarding an incident of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (s) and his noble companion Abu Bakr ® taking shelter in a cave, fleeing from prosecution. In this verse, Allah (s) narrates the response of the Holy Prophet (s), “…Do not be sad, for indeed Allah is with us!” We can understand that there is solace in recognizing that you’re really not alone. There comes a feeling of encouragement and strength that is attained from knowing that Allah provides a way out of the most difficult situations. This verse also goes to show that at some point the noble companion Abu Bakr ® had a fear of feeling hopeless in a seemingly difficult situation i.e., being persecuted, but the Holy Prophet’s (s) honored words and presence gave him contentment and ease of mind to know that Allah will protect and care for us. The reminder comes to help us DE-catastrophize the REAL possibility of what might occur, as we tend to over-exaggerate the negative implications of most events. This creates a vicious cycle which leads to over-escalation and catastrophizing. If we take a deeper look at our own lives and the way we perceive things, we can take a step back and focus on our thoughts. We could ask ourselves if we’re approaching the scenario in the right way? Perhaps I am being ineffective in my approach. This kind of reflection is adaptive or in other words USEFUL. As opposed to kicking oneself about the outcome or their past actions. An example of this would be like a person who applies for a new job. They take the appropriate steps to prepare for the job, they prepare their resume, they wear the correct dress, and they have a good interview. But lo and behold, the hiring manager tells you, you did not get the job. Immediately the first response is to be let down, and internalize the inability to secure that job as a personal fault. So you begin questioning and doubting yourself when in reality it was something you could not have done any better because you tried your best. A better approach would be to sift through what actions you did before the interview, work on a new approach, and with confidence go for another interview. Instead of looking at it as a failure, change your perception of the situation and consider it another opportunity for you to get better at interviews so by the next interview you’ll do even better and hopefully land the job. Bearing these important concepts and principles in mind, any person feeling hopeless should confide in the knowledge that indeed all difficulties do come to an end. A useful concept that can be practiced is ACT – Acceptance and Commitment Therapy. This theory outlines the fact that the happiest people and most resilient people in the world are those that have ACCEPTED the reality that life carries with it anxieties and difficulties. They are not surprised by it and have come to accept this reality. Its about acceptance rather then striving for a life of being worry-free. It is about changing our perceptions and expectations about reality. And that the propagation of pessimistic thoughts tend to lead to an even darker mental state that in turn can be a cause of physical detriment to ones self. Staying positive is essential to combating hopelessness and having certainty that truly Allah is on my side. It is natural for human beings to feel hopeless during difficult times, however we should be cognizant of the reality of hopelessness. One positive approach one can take is to reach out to their social circles for support, such as a group of friends, colleagues, people at your local gym etc. There is no shame in reaching out during trying times, as it is a normal experience for human beings to experience. It can drain you and sidetrack you from your goals and objectives in life. Making an effort to defer the sense of hopelessness and instead use that moment as a catalyst to boost oneself both spiritually and physically. Source

Performing Saee without Wudhu Q. I understand that a person should be in the state of Wudhu whilst performing Tawaaf and Saee of Umrah. But what if a person performs the Tawaaf of Umrah with Wudhu and the Saee of Umrah without Wudhu? Is there a penalty for performing the Saee of Umrah without Wudhu? A. It is not a condition for a person to be in the state of Wudhu whilst performing the Saee’ of Umrah. Therefore, if a person performed the Tawaaf of Umrah with Wudhu and the Saee’ of Umrah without Wudhu, the Saee’ will be valid and there will be no penalty for it. (Al Bahrur Raaiq 3/23) And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best Mufti Ismaeel Bassa Confirmation: Mufti Ebrahim Desai (Islamic rulings on this Q&A newsletter are answered in accordance to the Hanafi Fiqh) Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

When Seeing a Good Dream If one experiences a good dream, then he should recite Alhamdulillah. If one wishes, one may relate his dream to someone who he is fond of (someone who is his well-wisher). عن أبي سعيد الخدري رضي الله عنه أنه سمع النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم يقول إذا رأى أحدكم رؤيا يحبها فإنما هي من الله فليحمد الله عليها وليحدث بها وإذا رأى غير ذلك مما يكره فإنما هي من الشيطان فليستعذ من شرها ولا يذكرها لأحد فإنها لا تضره (بخارى رقم 6985 ) Hadhrat Abu Saeed Khudri (Radhiallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “If anyone of you sees a good dream that pleases him, then one should regard such a dream to be from the side of Allah Ta’ala, therefore he should praise Allah Ta’ala and he may mention it (to someone who is his well-wisher). However, if he sees a bad dream, then one should regard such a dream to be from the side of Shaytaan, and he should seek the protection of Allah Ta’ala from its evil and he should not mention such a dream to anyone, the evil of such a dream will not cause him any harm. عن أبي قتادة رضي الله عنه قال سمعت النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم يقول: الرؤيا الحسنة من الله فإذا رأى أحدكم ما يحب فلا يحدث به إلا من يحب (بخاري رقم 7044) Hadhrat Abu Qataadah (Radhiyallahu Anhu) reports that he heard Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) say: “Good dreams are from Allah Ta’ala. If anyone of you sees a good dream that pleases him, then he should only mention it to someone who he is fond of.” Ihyaauddeen.co.za

The Blessing of Daughters! Source: Jamiat.org.za Children are no doubt a great gift from Almighty Allah to all parents. Parents must think of their children as such treasures that all the wealth and material resources are worthless as when compared to one’s children. We, as parents, should thank and be grateful to Almighty Allah for blessing us with children whether they are boys or girls. Today, it is quite disheartening to see that some parents rejoice when the newborn child is a male and show their dissatisfaction when the child is a female. But, this should not be the attitude. Islam does not condone this type of behavior, as such was the manner of the parents in the time of ignorance. In pre-Islamic times, the Arabs used to be disheartened and annoyed with the birth of girls, so that a father, when informed his wife had given birth to a girl, said, “By Allah she is not as blissful as a son; her defense is crying and her care is but stealing!” He meant she could not defend her father and her family except by screaming and crying, not by fighting and carrying arms. She also cannot be good to them and care for them except by taking from her husband’s money to give to her family. Their traditions allowed the father to bury his daughter alive for actual poverty, or for expected poverty, or out of fear of a disgrace she might bring upon them when she grew up. In that context, the Qur’an says, denouncing and derogating them: “And when the girl-child who was buried alive is asked. Upon what sin was she killed for.” [Surah al-Takweer, Verses 8-9] The Qur’an also describes the condition of fathers when daughters were born: “And when one among of them receives the glad tidings of a daughter, his face turns black for the day, and he remains seething. Hiding from the people because of the evil of the tidings; “Will he keep her with disgrace, or bury her beneath the earth?”; pay heed! Very evil is the judgment they impose!” [Surah al-Nahl, Verse 58-59] The Qur’an led an uncompromising campaign against those cruel people who kill children-whether male or female. Allah says in the Qur’an: “Indeed ruined are those who slay their children out of senseless ignorance and forbid the sustenance which Allah has bestowed upon them, in order to fabricate lies against Allah; they have undoubtedly gone astray and not attained the path.” [Surah al-Anaam, Verse 140] And Allah Almighty says: “And do not kill your children, fearing poverty; We shall provide sustenance to them as well as to you; indeed killing them is a great mistake.” [Surah Bani Israel, Verse 31] Some ancient laws gave the father the right to sell his daughter if he wished; while others allowed him to hand her to another man who would either kill her or own her if the father killed the other man’s daughter. When Islam was revealed, it decreed a daughter – like a son – was a gift from Allah, to be granted to whomever Allah wishes of His worshipers: “For Allah only is the kingship of the heavens and the earth; He creates whatever He wills; He may bestow daughters to whomever He wills, and sons to whomever He wills. Or may mix them, the sons and daughters; and may make barren whomever He wills; indeed He is All Knowing, Able.” [Surah al-Shoora, Verses 49-50] The Prophet (blessings and peace be upon him) of Islam made Paradise the recompense of every father who conducts himself well with his daughters, has patience in raising them, provides their moral education, and observes Allah’s commands concerning them until they come of age or until his . The Prophet (blessings and peace be upon him) made the place of the father in Paradise next to him. Hadrat Anas reported that the Messenger of Allah SallAllahu Alaihi wa Sallam said, “Whoever brings up two girls till they reach the age of puberty, he and I will come on the Day of Resurrection like this,” (and he joined his blessed fingers.) The beloved Prophet (Peace and Blessings of Allah be Upon Him) has stated that “When a boy is born, then he brings one Noor (light) and when a girl is born, then she brings two Noors.” It has been narrated in a Hadith that the Holy Prophet (Peace and Blessings of Allah be Upon Him) has stated that “If parents are kind and generous towards their daughters, then they will be so close to Him (The Holy Prophet Peace and Blessings of Allah be Upon Him) in Jannah, like one finger is to the next.” The Holy Prophet (Peace and Blessings of Allah be Upon Him) has also stated that “The person who is faced with hardship due to his daughters, and makes Sabr (is patient), then his daughters will be a Pardah (curtain) between him and the Hell-fire.” Hadrat Ibn ‘Abbas reported that the Messenger of Allah SallAllahu Alaihi wa Sallam said, “…and whoever brings up three daughters or a like number of sisters, training them well and showing kindness to them till Allah enriches them (i.e. till they reach the age of puberty), Allah will guarantee Paradise for him.” A man asked: “O Messenger of Allah! Does this apply to two also?” He said: “even to two.” If they had asked whether to one also, the Messenger of Allah would have said that, “even to one…” Sayyiduna Ibn ‘Abbas (Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu) recounted, “Whoever had a female who was not buried nor insulted by him, and had not preferred his male children to her, Allah admits him to Paradise.” Daughters are without doubt a great blessing from Almighty Allah. They are a means of salvation and a path to Jannah (Heaven) for their parents. The crux of one narration states that “One who loves his daughters and withstands the hardship of grooming and getting them married, Almighty Allah makes Jannah compulsory (Waajib) on him and keeps him protected from the Fire of Hell.” And in another Hadith, the beloved Prophet SallAllaho Alaihi wa Sallam said: “They will be a shield for him from the Fire.” The beloved Prophet SallAllahu Alaihi wa Sallam commanded: “Whenever you buy anything from the market place first present it to your female children then to your male children.” “Daughters are a gift from Almighty Allah. Those parents who are kind towards them, then Almighty Allah is generous towards such parents. Those who are merciful to their daughters, Almighty Allah is Merciful towards them.” “When a girl is born to a family, then between the parents and Hell, there shall be a distance of five hundred years.” It has been stated that: When parents rejoice at the birth of a daughter, this is greater than making Tawaaf of the Kaaba seventy times. When Imam Ahmad Ibn Hanbal (Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anhu) would hear that one of his relatives or friends had a baby girl, he would say to them, “Congratulations for the Prophets were mostly fathers of daughters.” Muslims should also remember that the family of the Holy Prophet Muhammad (Peace and Blessings of Allah be Upon Him) is from his beloved daughter Sayyidah Fatima Zahra (Radi Allahu Ta’ala Anha). With these open and authentic texts, with the enhanced and repeated good news, the birth of girls is not at all a fearful burden nor is it a bad omen. On the contrary, it is a blessing to be thanked for and a mercy to be desired and requested because it is a blessing of the Almighty and a reward to be gained. Dear brothers and sisters! Rejoice on the birth of your daughters, love and guide them and give them that which is due to them from your belongings. Do not deprive them of their inheritance as they also have say in this. Remember! Daughters are a blessing and not a burden.

Simple Wedding By Hadrat Mawlānā Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullāh Weddings are moments of much happiness and joy. They are an occasion of happiness not just for the bride and groom, but for family members, associates through to even the general public. It is very regretful that when Allāh ta‘ālā, the most Compassionate, gifts us with such happiness which we remember for the rest of our lives, we use these very moments to indulge in such vices which bring His displeasure and invite His wrath. Music, photography, free mixing between the genders and extravagance in spending are just a few examples. A few incidents from the ahādīth of the Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam are cited in order to allow us to understand how these events were enacted during his blessed time and enable us think and make our weddings more like these. The simple rule from the wedding ceremony through to the walīmah (wedding banquet) was as reported by Sayyidah ‘Ā’ishah radhiyallāhu ‘anhā that the most blessed wedding is that which is least burdensome and easiest in terms of expenditure. (Al-Bayhaqī) With regards the marriage of the Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam, Sayyidunā Anas radhiyallāhu ‘anhu states that the Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam consummated his marriage to Sayyidah Safiyyah bint Huyay radhiyallāhu ‘anhā between Khaybar and Madīnah. On this occasion I invited the Muslims to a walīmah in which neither meat nor bread was offered, rather the Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam ordered for leather dining-sheets to be spread, dates, dried yogurt and butter were laid on it, and that was the walīmah of the Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam.’ (Al-Bukhārī) It is also reported that the Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam did not give a more splendid walīmah on the occasion of marrying any of his wives than the one he gave on marrying Sayyidah Zaynab bint Jahash radhiyallāhu ‘anhā, in which the walīmah was with one goat.’ (Al-Bukhārī) Such simplicity and minimal fuss was adopted by the Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam which served as an example for his companions, who duly followed in his footsteps. These examples are a far cry from what we experience in our weddings today. Sayyidunā ‘Abdur Rahmān ibn ‘Awf radhiyallāhu ‘anhu after migrating from Makkah to Madīnah, gradually earned enough wealth to be able to afford marriage. He married with such simplicity that it was only when the Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam noticed yellow perfume stains on his clothes, that he became aware of his marriage. (Al-Bukhārī) Marriages were consummated with the Hereafter in mind. Although carnal desires were present they were subjugated by thinking of the long term benefits to the extent that upon learning that Jābir radhiyallāhu ‘anhu had married, the Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam inquired from him whether he married a virgin or a divorcee or widow. Sayyidunā Jābir radhiyallāhu ‘anhu informed Rasūlullāh sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam that he did not marry a virgin but opted to marry an elder woman. (Al-Bukhārī) This choice was taken because Sayyidunā Jābir radhiyallāhu ‘anhu had nine small sisters who remained in his custody after the death of his father. The wisdom filled thinking was that a more aged and experienced wife will be able to aid him in educating and providing a good religious upbringing to them. Such was the unselfishness and simplicity of the Prophet sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam and his companions radhiyallāhu ‘anhum. These examples serve as reminders for us as to what weddings should be like. The general trend nowadays is to over indulge in every aspect related to the wedding; from the engagement through to the wedding ceremony itself. Countless customs and practices are adopted which have no basis in Sharī‘ah and are nothing but excuses to spend lavishly and fulfil one’s unlawful wants in the disguise of a celebration. Being moments of happiness and celebration Islām has permitted, rather encouraged, one to rejoice but, as with all things there are boundaries and as long as these boundaries are not surpassed then these events will not attract the wrath and anger of Allāh ta‘ālā. In fact they will become a means of His Blessings and Mercy which in turn will ensure that the wedding finds a favourable foundation on which the couple can base the rest of their lives. © Riyādul Jannah (Vol. 15 No. 8, Aug 2006)

Pearls of Wisdom: No.43 “Food for the Soul” SUBJECT: LOVE FOR THE MESSENGER OF ALLAH (peace be upon him) Allah, The Most Exalted, says: “Say: If you do love Allah, follow (and love) me, Allah will love you.” (Qur’an 3:31) The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said; "None of you will have faith till he loves me more than his father, his children and all mankind.” (Hadith-Bukhari) “He who loves my Sunnah (practices), has loved me and he who has loved me will be with me in Jannah (Paradise)” (Hadith – Tirmidhi) Note: Just as it is incumbent upon us to love Allah Ta’ala so too is it also incumbent upon us to love His Final Messenger Muhammad (Peace be upon him) who sacrificed so much for our guidance and eternal salvation. The Messenger of Allah(pbuh) was both internally and externally truly remarkable and extremely beautiful and was indeed a beacon of light for all of humanity. Just as there is no relish in the food without salt, so to the beauty and wisdom of Islam cannot be truly appreciated without sincere love for The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him). www.eislam.co.za