Sunday, November 20, 2011
Saturday, November 19, 2011
Relaxation is in Paradise!
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
Ibn Al Juwziee said:
Whoever does not read the stories of the Salaf and the path that they tread, he can never tread that path. It is befitting for a person to know and understand that the nature of an individual (character) is a thief. If a person leaves his nature with the people of his time, his nature will steal from theirs and he will become similar to them. But if he reads into the lives of the Salaf his nature will join theirs and he will learn from their character....(Telblees Iblees)
The following are just a few examples from the past and present day scholars informing of their love of knowledge and their preference of it over relaxation.
First:
It was reported by Ibn al Qayyim in his book: "Rawdatul Muhibeen", I was informed by my Sheikh (Ibn Taymiyyah), he said: When I became sick the doctor said to me: Verily your research and Islamic lecturing increases your illness. I (Ibn Taymiyyah) replied: I can not stop, and I will debate you in your knowledge! If a person becomes happy and joyful doesn't this strengthen their soul or spirit, and as a result wards off illness? The doctor responded: Of course. So I (Ibn Taymiyyah) said: Verily my spirit is pleased with knowledge and it strengthens my nature and due to that I find relaxation. The doctor responded: This is something our knowledge doesn't apply to.
Second:
It was reported by Sheikh Muhammed bin Hadee to some of his visitors that he was told a story by Ahmed Al Hakimy, the brother of Sheikh Hafith Al Hakimy:
One year while Sheikh Hafith Al Hakimy was on Hajj or during Ramadan in Mecca, he was looking for the book titled: "Creation of The Servant's Action" by Imam Al Bukhari. While in Mecca he was informed that someone had arrived from India with a copy of the book and that he had given it to the library there in The Haram. Sheikh Hafith visited the library and requested to borrow the book under the condition that he would not leave the Haram and that he would return the book the following day after the rising of the sun. He took the book and requested for someone to bring him paper and a pen. He sat and made his own copy of the book. Then he continued to memorize the book until Fajr. After Fajr he rested for a short period of time and then woke up. Upon waking, he returned the original book to the library and said: Here is your original, and here is an extra copy (the copy he himself wrote) and the book is in my head (memorized).
May Allah grant Sheikh Hafith Al Hakimy ease in his grave and raise him with the righteous ameen.
It was also mentioned by Sheikh Ahmed An Najmee the following:
We (as young boys) were instructed by our teacher Sheikh Abdullah Al Qara'wee to memorize the Quran in preparation for the month of Ramadan. We would memorize during the day, and toward the end of the day we gathered to test one another in memorization. I (Ahmed An Najmee) memorized a hizb for that day. Surprisingly, Hafith Al Hakimy memorized a full Juz! We continued for a full month, and everyday Hafith would memorize a full Juz completing the entire Quran in one month!
Third:
It was reported by Sheikh Abdul Kareem Al Kudair:
I was informed by one of the widows of Sheikh Abdul Azeez bin Baz that one day he returned home from the hospital, and upon entering the house she noticed that he was very tired and exhausted. After falling to sleep, she changed his alarm clock from the normal set time for night prayer, to a later time. The Sheikh woke at his normal time without the clock and inquired why the clock did not work. His wife informed that she had changed the time in order for him to relax. He admonished her and said: Relaxation is in Paradise!
(Lecture titled:"Radiant Pages From The (examples) of The Worship of The Scholars")
Mustafa George
Link to original post here
Thursday, November 17, 2011
How to Attain a Righteous Heart
Question: What is the (proper) way to rectify and cleanse the heart from rancor and envy? And what are the most effective ways to reform the heart in this life?
Answer: Rectification of the heart takes place in different ways. Firstly, sincerity in ones intention for Allaah ‘azza wa jall when doing righteous actions and visualizing the magnitude of Allaah jall wa ‘alla and bearing in mind one’s (absolute) need of Allaah ‘azza wa jall.
Also remembering Allaah much. Allaah, the Most High says: “Those who believe (in the Oneness of Allaah – Islamic Monotheism), and whose hearts find rest in the remembrance of Allaah, Verily, in the remembrance of Allaah do hearts find rest.” (13:28) So from that which rectifies the heart is remembering Allaah much. The Messenger, sallallaahu ‘alaihi wasallaam, has said: The example of the one who remembers Allaah and the one who does not remember Allaah is like that of the living and the dead.
Likewise from the means for the revitalization of the heart is consuming from the halaal (lawful) and leaving off consuming from the haraam (unlawful) because it (i.e. consuming from the haraam) hardens the heart, corrupts and sickens it. Evil nourishment(s) affect the heart and body. And likewise from the reasons Allaah says: “O (you) Messengers! Eat of the Tayyibaat [all kinds of halaal (lawful) foods (meat of slaughtered edible animals, milk products, fats, vegetables, fruits, etc.], and do righteous deeds.” (23:51) and Allaah ordered the believers with that which He ordered the Messengers, He says: “O you who believe (in the Oneness of Allaah – Islamic Monotheism)! Eat of the lawful things that We have provided you with…” (2:172)
Consuming from the tayyibaat means the lawful things because Allaah has made permissible for us the tayyibaat and prohibited upon us the khabaaith (evil things). So therefore, nutrition with the tayyibaat, i.e. which are the lawful things, nourishes the heart with a pleasant nourishment just as nutrition with noxious things nourishes the heart with an abhorrent nourishment. And from those matters that sicken the heart are listening to music and flutes and the like which has become very prevalent in this time (of ours).
From those affairs that sicken the heart or cause it to die is busying one’s self with obscenities and the internet and whatever these evil devices promote from wickedness and evil ideologies like forbidden lusts and despicable sights. This is from those affairs that plague the heart. Likewise accompanying wicked individuals and sitting with them corrupts the heart whereas accompanying the upright people and the scholars and the people of goodness; is from those matters that reform the heart.
Transcribed from: Question Posed to Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan on How to Attain a Righteous Heart | Translated by Fouzaan Qaasim
Saturday, November 5, 2011
Friday, November 4, 2011
Marrying only a seeker of knowledge
Link
Question: “Is it allowed for a woman to make a condition that the one proposing to her must be a student of knowledge?”
Shaykh al-Albaani (rahimahullaah) answers:
“She wants the one proposing to be from the students of knowledge, so what’s the problem? Just like her wanting a righteous man, (here) she keenly desires one who is (both) righteous and a student of knowledge. Of course, when she is making this requirement for him to be a student of knowledge, she does not mean someone who is not righteous. Thus, she means one who is (both) righteous and a student of knowledge. What is the problem with this? If only all young women were of this kind.”
source: silsilat ul-hudaa wa nnoor, tape no. 345/7
asaheeha translations
Question: “Is it allowed for a woman to make a condition that the one proposing to her must be a student of knowledge?”
Shaykh al-Albaani (rahimahullaah) answers:
“She wants the one proposing to be from the students of knowledge, so what’s the problem? Just like her wanting a righteous man, (here) she keenly desires one who is (both) righteous and a student of knowledge. Of course, when she is making this requirement for him to be a student of knowledge, she does not mean someone who is not righteous. Thus, she means one who is (both) righteous and a student of knowledge. What is the problem with this? If only all young women were of this kind.”
source: silsilat ul-hudaa wa nnoor, tape no. 345/7
asaheeha translations
Wednesday, November 2, 2011
Our brother and sister have been buried
Our brother and sister have been buried
AssalamuAlaikum Wa Rahmatullah
We have been informed that the Janazah has been performed and our brother Abu Talha Dawood and his wife have been buried, Rahimahumullah. We ask Allah to make their questioning easy and to grant them firdous. May Allah make them a reminder and make us reflect on our actions and our state of affairs. May Allah make our ending good. We ask Allah to make their children strong and grant them ease.
To Allah we belong and to Him is our Return.
Death is a reminder
No doubt Death is from amongst the greatest reminders of the temporary nature of this Duniya. At the same time it is a way to reflect on our affairs as individuals. "You don't know what you got until its gone." Only last week our brother Abu Talha travelled to Manchester to teach the people in that city. And how often do our brothers and callers travel to various cities to teach the people. And this knowledge is not accumulated to be carried on the backs. It is attained to gain closeness to Allah, to attain the taqwa of Allah. How many of us sit and regret now how much benefit we missed all those years that Abu Talha was teaching on our doorstep. Let us reflect upon this loss and strive in learning, acting upon that knowledge, calling others to it and being patient upon its trials.
Next time there are gatherings of knowledge in your city then race towards reaching it and bring others. For you may learn something from it, act upon it such that it will bring you nearness to Allah azzawajal.
We ask Allah to make our speech and our action seeking the face of our Lord.
http://www.salafitalk.com/threads/657-Abu-Talhah-Dawud-Burbank-and-his-Wife-have-Died?p=1178#post1178
posted by albaseerah.com
Tuesday, November 1, 2011
Whoever loves the Meeting with Allaah..
Narrated Abu Musa (RadiAllaahu anhu) , The Prophet (SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam) said, " Whoever loves the Meeting with Allaah, Allaah too loves the Meeting with him; and whoever hates the Meeting with Allaah, Allaah too hates the Meeting with him."
[Sahih Al-Bukhari 8/6508 The Book of Ar-Riqaq (Softening of the Hearts)]
[Sahih Al-Bukhari 8/6508 The Book of Ar-Riqaq (Softening of the Hearts)]
Saturday, October 29, 2011
No poverty after Paradise, and no Riches after the Fire.
No poverty after Paradise, and no Riches after the Fire.
It is reported that Jundub b. ‘Abdillâh Al-Bajalî – Allah be pleased with him – was once asked for advice and instruction. He said:
I advise you to fear Allâh and obey Him (taqwâ) and I advise you to adhere to the Quran, for it is a light in the dark night and a guidance during the day, so implement it no matter how much struggle and poverty you have to face. If a calamity befalls you, put your wealth forward to protect your religion, and if the calamity continues, put forward your wealth and your life to save your religion [but never risk your religion], for the ruined is he whose religion is ruined, and the looted is he whose religion is taken. And know that there is no poverty after Paradise, and no riches after the Fire.
Al-Dhahabî, Siyar A’lâm Al-Nubalâ` 3:174.
Tuesday, October 18, 2011
Friday, October 14, 2011
Causes of hardheartedness
Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen (rahimahullaah) said:
Causes of hardheartedness include: turning away from Allah, may He be glorified and exalted, and not reading Qur’aan; being preoccupied with this world and focusing mostly on it, and not paying attention to matters of religion, because obeying Allah, may He be exalted, makes the heart soft and brings one back to Allah, may He be blessed and exalted.
The remedy for that is to turn to Allah, repent to Him, remember Him a great deal, read the Qur’aan a great deal, and do acts of worship, as much as one can.
[Fataawa Noor ‘ala al-Darb by Ibn ‘Uthaymeen, 12/171]
This is a repost from: http://eesaibnroy.multiply.com/journal/item/1086/Causes_of_hardheartedness
This is a repost from: http://eesaibnroy.multiply.com/journal/item/1086/Causes_of_hardheartedness
Thursday, September 22, 2011
Friday, September 16, 2011
Wednesday, September 7, 2011
Tuesday, August 30, 2011
Remaining Steadfast After Ramadaan
**Taken from www.salafipublications.com**
Remaining steadfast after Ramadaan
Author: 'Abdullaah Ibn Saalih Al-Fawzaan
Source: Ahaadeeth As-Siyaam: Ahkaam wa Adaab (pg. 155-157)
Sufyaan Ibn 'Abdillaah said: "O Messenger of Allaah , tell me something about Islaam of which I will not ask anyone else besides you (after that)." He said: "Say: 'I believe in Allaah' and then be steadfast (upon that)." [1]
This hadeeth is proof that the servant is obligated, after having Eemaan in Allaah, to persevere and be steadfast upon obeying Him by performing the obligatory acts and avoiding the prohibited ones. This is achieved by following the Straight Path, which is the firm Religion, without drifting away from it to the right or to the left.
If a Muslim lived through Ramadaan and spent its days in fasting and its nights in prayer, and in that month he accustomed himself to doing acts of good, then he must continue to remain upon this obedience to Allaah at all times (after that). This is the true state of the servant (‘abd), for indeed, the Lord of the months is One and He is ever watchful and witnessing His servants at all times.
Indeed, steadfastness after Ramadaan and the rectification of one's statements and actions are the greatest signs that one has gained benefit from the month of Ramadaan and that he struggled in obedience. They are tokens of acceptance and signs of success.
Furthermore, the deeds of a servant do not come to an end with the end of a month and the beginning of another. Rather they continue and extend until one reaches death, for Allaah says: “And worship your Lord until the certainty (i.e. death) comes to you.” [2]
If the fasting of Ramadaan comes to an end, then indeed the voluntary fasting is still prescribed throughout the entire year, and all praise is due to Allaah. If standing in prayer at night during Ramadaan comes to an end, then indeed, the entire year is a time for performing the night prayer. And if the Zakaat-ul-Fitr comes to an end, then there is still the Zakaah that is obligatory as well as the voluntary charity that lasts the whole year. This goes the same for reciting the Qur'aan and pondering over its meaning as well as every other righteous deed that is desirable, for they can be done at all times. From the many bounties that Allaah has bestowed upon His servants is that He has placed for them many different types of acts of worship and He provided many means for doing good deeds. Therefore, the enthusiasm and the zeal of the Muslim must be constant and he must continue to remain in the service of his Master.
It is unfortunate to find some people performing worship by doing different types of righteous acts during Ramadaan – they guard strictly their five daily prayers in the masjid, they recite the Qur’aan abundantly and they give in charity from their money. But when Ramadaan comes to an end, they grow lazy in their worship. Rather, sometimes they even abandon the obligations, both generally, such as praying in congregation, and specifically, such as praying the Fajr prayer!
And they (even) commit forbidden acts such as sleeping over the time of prayers, indulging in places of foolishness and entertainment, and mingling in parks, especially on the day of 'Eed! Obtaining help from these evils is only through the Grace of Allaah. Thus, they demolish what they have constructed and they destroy what they have established. This is an indication of deprivation and a sign of perdition. We ask Allaah for His safeguarding and protection!
Indeed, these types of people take the example of turning in repentance and ceasing from committing evil deeds as something specific and restricted to (only) the month of Ramadaan. So they stop doing these (good) acts when the month stops. Thus, it is as if they have abandoned sinning for the sake of Ramadaan, and not out of fear for Allaah! How evil are these people who do not know Allaah except in Ramadaan!
Truly, the success that Allaah grants His servant lies in the fasting of Ramadaan. And Allaah’s assisting him to do that is a great blessing. Thus this calls for the servant to be grateful to his Lord. And this understanding can be found in Allaah’s saying, after having completed the favor of the month of fasting:
"(He wants that you) must compete the same number of days, and that you must magnify Allaah (by saying Allaahu Akbar) for having guided you, so that you may be grateful to Him." [3]
So the one who is grateful for having fasted, he will remain upon that condition and continue to perform righteous deeds.
Indeed, the true manner of a Muslim is that of one who praises and thanks his Lord for having been bestowed the ability to fast and make qiyaam (night prayer). His condition after Ramadaan is better than it was before Ramadaan. He is more ready to obey, desiring to do good deeds and quick to implement the obligatory acts. This is since he has acquired benefit from this prominent institute of learning. It is that of one who fears for having his fast not accepted, for indeed Allaah only accepts from those who have Taqwaa.
The righteous predecessors would struggle to complete and perfect their deeds, hoping afterwards, that it would be accepted and fearing that it would be rejected. From the reports of 'Alee is that he said: "Be more concerned with having your deeds accepted than with the deed itself. Did you not hear Allaah say: 'Verily Allaah, only accepts from those who have Taqwaa?' [4]" [5]
'Aa'ishah said: "I asked the Messenger of Allaah concerning the ayah: 'And those who give away that which they give (i.e. charity and other good deeds), while their hearts tremble with fear.' Are they the ones who drink alcohol and steal?" He said: "No, O daughter of As-Siddeeq. But rather, they are the ones who fast and pray and give in charity, yet fear that it won't be accepted from them. They are the ones who rush to do good deeds and they are the first to do them." [6]
So be warned and again be warned of turning backward after having attained guidance, of going astray after persevering! And ask Allaah to provide you with endurance in doing righteous deeds and continuity in performing good acts. And ask Allaah that He grant you a good end, in order that He may accept our Ramadaan from us.
Footnotes:
[1] Saheeh Muslim (no. 38)
[2] Surat-ul-Hijr: 99
[3] Surat-ul-Baqarah: 185
[4] Surat-ul-Maa'idah: 27
[5] Lataa'if-ul-Ma'aarif (pg. 246)
[6] Reported by At-Tirmidhee and authenticated by Al-Albaanee in his Saheeh checking of it: (3/79-80)
Remaining steadfast after Ramadaan
Author: 'Abdullaah Ibn Saalih Al-Fawzaan
Source: Ahaadeeth As-Siyaam: Ahkaam wa Adaab (pg. 155-157)
Sufyaan Ibn 'Abdillaah said: "O Messenger of Allaah , tell me something about Islaam of which I will not ask anyone else besides you (after that)." He said: "Say: 'I believe in Allaah' and then be steadfast (upon that)." [1]
This hadeeth is proof that the servant is obligated, after having Eemaan in Allaah, to persevere and be steadfast upon obeying Him by performing the obligatory acts and avoiding the prohibited ones. This is achieved by following the Straight Path, which is the firm Religion, without drifting away from it to the right or to the left.
If a Muslim lived through Ramadaan and spent its days in fasting and its nights in prayer, and in that month he accustomed himself to doing acts of good, then he must continue to remain upon this obedience to Allaah at all times (after that). This is the true state of the servant (‘abd), for indeed, the Lord of the months is One and He is ever watchful and witnessing His servants at all times.
Indeed, steadfastness after Ramadaan and the rectification of one's statements and actions are the greatest signs that one has gained benefit from the month of Ramadaan and that he struggled in obedience. They are tokens of acceptance and signs of success.
Furthermore, the deeds of a servant do not come to an end with the end of a month and the beginning of another. Rather they continue and extend until one reaches death, for Allaah says: “And worship your Lord until the certainty (i.e. death) comes to you.” [2]
If the fasting of Ramadaan comes to an end, then indeed the voluntary fasting is still prescribed throughout the entire year, and all praise is due to Allaah. If standing in prayer at night during Ramadaan comes to an end, then indeed, the entire year is a time for performing the night prayer. And if the Zakaat-ul-Fitr comes to an end, then there is still the Zakaah that is obligatory as well as the voluntary charity that lasts the whole year. This goes the same for reciting the Qur'aan and pondering over its meaning as well as every other righteous deed that is desirable, for they can be done at all times. From the many bounties that Allaah has bestowed upon His servants is that He has placed for them many different types of acts of worship and He provided many means for doing good deeds. Therefore, the enthusiasm and the zeal of the Muslim must be constant and he must continue to remain in the service of his Master.
It is unfortunate to find some people performing worship by doing different types of righteous acts during Ramadaan – they guard strictly their five daily prayers in the masjid, they recite the Qur’aan abundantly and they give in charity from their money. But when Ramadaan comes to an end, they grow lazy in their worship. Rather, sometimes they even abandon the obligations, both generally, such as praying in congregation, and specifically, such as praying the Fajr prayer!
And they (even) commit forbidden acts such as sleeping over the time of prayers, indulging in places of foolishness and entertainment, and mingling in parks, especially on the day of 'Eed! Obtaining help from these evils is only through the Grace of Allaah. Thus, they demolish what they have constructed and they destroy what they have established. This is an indication of deprivation and a sign of perdition. We ask Allaah for His safeguarding and protection!
Indeed, these types of people take the example of turning in repentance and ceasing from committing evil deeds as something specific and restricted to (only) the month of Ramadaan. So they stop doing these (good) acts when the month stops. Thus, it is as if they have abandoned sinning for the sake of Ramadaan, and not out of fear for Allaah! How evil are these people who do not know Allaah except in Ramadaan!
Truly, the success that Allaah grants His servant lies in the fasting of Ramadaan. And Allaah’s assisting him to do that is a great blessing. Thus this calls for the servant to be grateful to his Lord. And this understanding can be found in Allaah’s saying, after having completed the favor of the month of fasting:
"(He wants that you) must compete the same number of days, and that you must magnify Allaah (by saying Allaahu Akbar) for having guided you, so that you may be grateful to Him." [3]
So the one who is grateful for having fasted, he will remain upon that condition and continue to perform righteous deeds.
Indeed, the true manner of a Muslim is that of one who praises and thanks his Lord for having been bestowed the ability to fast and make qiyaam (night prayer). His condition after Ramadaan is better than it was before Ramadaan. He is more ready to obey, desiring to do good deeds and quick to implement the obligatory acts. This is since he has acquired benefit from this prominent institute of learning. It is that of one who fears for having his fast not accepted, for indeed Allaah only accepts from those who have Taqwaa.
The righteous predecessors would struggle to complete and perfect their deeds, hoping afterwards, that it would be accepted and fearing that it would be rejected. From the reports of 'Alee is that he said: "Be more concerned with having your deeds accepted than with the deed itself. Did you not hear Allaah say: 'Verily Allaah, only accepts from those who have Taqwaa?' [4]" [5]
'Aa'ishah said: "I asked the Messenger of Allaah concerning the ayah: 'And those who give away that which they give (i.e. charity and other good deeds), while their hearts tremble with fear.' Are they the ones who drink alcohol and steal?" He said: "No, O daughter of As-Siddeeq. But rather, they are the ones who fast and pray and give in charity, yet fear that it won't be accepted from them. They are the ones who rush to do good deeds and they are the first to do them." [6]
So be warned and again be warned of turning backward after having attained guidance, of going astray after persevering! And ask Allaah to provide you with endurance in doing righteous deeds and continuity in performing good acts. And ask Allaah that He grant you a good end, in order that He may accept our Ramadaan from us.
Footnotes:
[1] Saheeh Muslim (no. 38)
[2] Surat-ul-Hijr: 99
[3] Surat-ul-Baqarah: 185
[4] Surat-ul-Maa'idah: 27
[5] Lataa'if-ul-Ma'aarif (pg. 246)
[6] Reported by At-Tirmidhee and authenticated by Al-Albaanee in his Saheeh checking of it: (3/79-80)
How was your 'Eid?
As Salaamu alaikum wa rahmatullaah wa barakaatuh
Maa shaa Allaah, we had such a wonderful 'Eid day here in Atlantic City. It was great to see all of my sisters and to see the children running about happy and carefree. The weather was beautiful alhamdulillaah. We prayed, listened to a very beneficial and much needed khutbah by our brother Abu Abaad filled with reminders to remain steadfast after Ramadaan , we ate and enjoyed the brother and sisterhood atmosphere. How was everyone elses 'Eid?
Monday, August 29, 2011
Saturday, August 27, 2011
"Do people think......"
Allaah states, " Do people think that they will be left alone because they say: "We believe," and will not be tested. (Noble Qur'aan 29:2)
Thursday, August 25, 2011
"The Hour will not be established until..."
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Tuesday, August 23, 2011
"I will declare war against him..."
Narrated Abu Hurairah RadiAllaahu anhu: Allaah's Messenger SalAllaahu alaihe was sallam said, "Allaah said, 'I will declare war against him who shows hostility to a pious worshipper of Mine. And the most beloved things with which My slave comes nearer to Me, is what I have enjoined upon him; and My slave keeps on coming closer to Me through performing Nawafil (praying and doing extra deeds besides what is obligatory) until I love him, then I become his sense of hearing with which he hears, and his sense of sight with which he sees, and his hand with which he grips, and his leg with which he walks; and if he asks Me, I will give him, and if he asks My Protection (Refuge), I will protect him (i.e.,give him refuge); and I do not hesitate to do anything as I hesitate to take the soul of the believer, for he hates death, and I hate to disappoint him.'" [Sahih al Bukhari, hadeeth #6502, The Book of AR-RIQAQ (Softening of the Hearts)]
Saturday, August 20, 2011
Exerting Oneself During the Last Ten Days of Ramadaan
Exerting Oneself During the Last Ten Days of Ramadaan
AUTHOR: 'Abdullaah bin Saalih Al-Fawzaan
SOURCE: Ahaadeeth As-Siyaam: Ahkaam wa Adaab (pg. 133-135)
PRODUCED BY: Al-Ibaanah.com
‘Aa’ishah (radyAllahau 'anhaa) said: "When the last ten days (of Ramadaan) would come, the Prophet (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) would spend his night in worship, wake his family (at night), exert himself and tighten his Izaar (waistcloth)." [1]
This hadeeth is proof that the last ten days of Ramadaan have a special virtue over any other (set of days), in which one should increase in obedience and acts of worship, such as prayer, making dhikr (remembrance) and reciting the Qur’aan.
‘Aa’ishah (radyAllahau 'anhaa) has described our Prophet and role model, Muhammad (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam), with four attributes:
As for what has been reported concerning the forbiddance of spending the entire night in prayer, which has been mentioned in the hadeeth of 'Abdullaah Ibn 'Amr (radyAllahau 'anhu) , then it is in regards to someone who does that consistently throughout every night of the year.
Also, he (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) would observe 'Itikaaf in the last ten days of Ramadaan and the person who is in the state of 'Itikaaf is restricted from interacting (sexually) with women.
So, O Muslim brother, strive to characterize yourself with these attributes. And guard the prayer you make in the depths of the night (tahajjud) with the Imaam in addition to the Taraaweeh prayer (which is prayed in the early parts of the night), so that your exertion in these last ten days may go beyond that of the first twenty. And so that you may achieve the attribute of "spending the night in worship" by praying.And you must be patient in your obedience to Allaah, for indeed, the tahajjud (night) prayer is difficult, but its reward is great. By Allaah, it is a great opportunity in ones life and a profitable thing to take advantage of, for the one whom Allaah grants it to. And a person does not know if perhaps he will encounter one of Allaah's many rewards during the night prayer, thus serving as assistance for him in this world and in the Hereafter.The righteous predecessors of this ummah would lengthen the prayer at night, exerting themselves. As-Saa'ib Ibn Yazeed said: "'Umar Ibn Al-Khattaab ordered Ubay Bin Ka'ab and Tameem Ad-Daaree to lead the people in prayer with eleven raka'aat. The reciter would recite one hundred verses, to the point that we had to lean upon wooden staffs due to the long standing. And we would not stop until the early parts of Fajr." [3]
'Abdullaah Ibn Abee Bakr reported: "I heard my father (i.e. Abu Bakr) say: 'During Ramadaan, we would finish (the night prayer) late and we would hurry the servants to present the food (of suhoor) for fear that Fajr (morning) would come upon us." [4]
There are two struggles of the soul that the believer faces during Ramadaan: the struggle by day with fasting and the struggle by night with qiyaam (night prayer). So whosoever combines these two and fulfills their rights, then he is amongst the patient -- those who will "be given their reward in full without any reckoning." [5]
These ten days are the last part of the month and a person's actions are based on his last ones. So perhaps, he will encounter the night of Al-Qadr, while standing in prayer for Allaah and thus have all his past sins forgiven. And one must incite, animate and persuade his family to perform acts of worship, especially in these great times in
which no one neglects it except that he has been deprived. What is more incredible than this is that while the people are performing prayer and making tahajjud, some individuals spend their time in forbidden gatherings and sinful events. This is indeed the greatest loss. We ask Allaah for his protection.Therefore, embarking on these last days means entering into the profiting from righteous deeds in what remains of the month. From the unfortunate matters is to see that some people excel in righteous actions, such as prayer and recitation of the Qur'aan, in the first part of the month, but then signs of fatigue and weariness begin to show on them afterwards, especially when the last ten days of Ramadaan come in. And this is in spite of these last ten days possessing a greater standing than the first ones. Thus, one must persevere in striving and struggling and increase his worship when the end of the month draws near. And we must keep in mind that a person's actions are based on his last ones.
Footnotes:
[1] Al-Bukhaaree (4/269) and Muslim (1174)
[2] See Lataa'if-ul-Ma'aarif: pg. 219
[3] See Al-Muwatta (Eng. Dar El-Fiker): vol. 1, pg 154
[4] Also in the Muwatta of Imaam Maalik: vol. 1, pg. 156
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Tuesday, August 9, 2011
Sunday, August 7, 2011
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Rulings for Fasting that are Specific for Women
Rulings for Fasting that are Specific for Women
AUTHOR: Shaikh Saalih Al-Fawzaan
SOURCE: His book Tanbeehaat ‘alaa Ahkaam takhtassu bil-Mu’minaat (pg. 62-67)
PRODUCED BY: Al-Ibaanah.com
Fasting the month of Ramadaan is an obligation on every male and female Muslim, and it is one of the pillars and great foundations of Islaam. Allaah says: "O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you in order that you may attain Taqwaa." [Surah Al-Baqarah: 183] The word "kutiba" (prescribed) here means "furida" obligated. So when the young girl reaches the age in which she will be held accountable for her actions, by having one of the signs of puberty become apparent in her, among which is menstruation, then the obligation of fasting begins for her. She could begin menstruating as early as when she is nine years old. However, some young girls are not aware that they are required to begin fasting at that point, so she doesn’t fast thinking that she is too young, nor do her parents order her to fast. This is a great negligence, for one of the pillars of Islaam is being abandoned.If this occurs to any woman, she is obligated to make up for the days of fasting that she abandoned since the point when she began menstruating, even if a long time has passed since that time, for it remains in her obligations.
Who is obligated to fast Ramadaan?
When the month of Ramadaan comes, every male and female Muslim that (1) has reached the age of puberty, is (2) healthy and (3) a resident (i.e. not traveling) is obligated to fast. And whoever is sick or traveling during the month, may break the fast and make up the number of days missed on other days. Allaah says: "So whoever sights the (moon indicating the beginning of the) month, then he must fast. And whoever is sick or on a journey, then (he may break the fast and instead fast) the number of days missed on other days." [Surah Al-Baqarah: 185] Likewise, whoever enters into Ramadaan and he is very old and not able to fast or has a chronic illness, which does not expect to be cured any specific time - whether male or female - may break the fast and instead feed a needy person half a saa’ (four handfuls) of the food from that people’s land for every day missed. Allaah says: "And as for those who can fast (but) with difficulty, they (may break their fast and) feed a needy person." [Surah Al-Baqarah: 184] Ibn ‘Abbaas (radyAllaahu ‘anhu) said: "This ayah is for the old man of whom it is not anticipated that he will be cured." [Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree]And the sick person of whom it is not hoped that he will be cured from his sickness falls under the ruling of the old person. And he does not have to make up the missed days because of his inability to fast.
A woman is specified with certain excuses that permit her to break the fast in Ramadaan, on the condition that she makes up the days she missed fasting due to these excuses on other days.These excuses are:
1. Menstrual and Postpartum Bleeding: A woman is forbidden from fasting while she is in these two conditions. And she is obligated to make up these missed days of fasting on other days.This is based on what is reported in the two Saheeh collections from ‘Aa’isha (radyAllaahu‘anhaa) who said: "We were ordered to make up the (missed) days of fasting but we were not ordered to make up the (missed) prayers." She gave this answer when a woman asked her: "Why does a menstruating woman have to make up the (missed days of) fasting and not have to make up the (missed) prayers?" So she (radyAllaahu ‘anhaa) clarified that this is from the matters dependent on revelation, which must comply with the reported texts. As for the wisdom behind that, then Shaikh-ul-Islaam Ibn Taimiyyah said in "Majmoo’-ul-Fataawaa" (15/251): "The blood that comes out of the woman because of menstruation has a discharge of blood in it. A menstruating woman can fast in times other than when the blood that comes out of her due to menstruation contains her blood. So her fasting in this situation is a moderate and balanced fast - no blood, which strengthens the body and which is its main substance - comes out of her during these times. But her fasting when she is menstruating necessitates that her blood come out during this time - the blood, which is the main component of her body and which will lead to a weakness and deficiency in her body. And this will necessitate that her fast not be that of a moderate and balanced nature. So that is why she is commanded to fast in times when she is not menstruating."
2. Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding: If because of fasting there is harm caused to the woman or the baby or to both of them, then she may break the fast while she is pregnant or breastfeeding. But if the harm for which reason she is breaking her fast only applies to her baby and not her, then she must make up for the days she missed of fasting and feed a needy person for each day missed. And if the harm only applies to herself, then it is sufficient for her to only make up the missed days. This is based on the pregnant woman and breastfeeding woman falling under the generality of Allaah’s saying: "And for those who can fast (but) with difficulty, they (may break their fast) and instead feed a needy person." [Surah Al-Baqarah: 184] Al-Haafidh Ibn Katheer (rahimahullaah) said in his Tafseer (1/379): "Amongst those who fall into the meaning of this ayah are the pregnant and breastfeeding women if they fear for themselves or for their children." And Shaikh-ul-Islaam Ibn Taimiyyah said: "If a pregnant woman fears for her fetus, then she may not fast and instead make up each day of fasting that was missed on other days and feed a needy person around 2 kilograms of bread." [Majmoo’-ul- Fatawaa: 25/318]
Important Notes:
1. Istihaadah (Irregular Bleeding): This is the condition in which a woman has blood come out of her, which is not her menstrual blood. She must observe the fast and it is not permissible for her to break her fast because of this type of bleeding. When mentioning the allowance of the menstruating woman of breaking her fast, Shaikh-ul-Islaam Ibn Taimiyyah (rahimahullaah) said: "This is contrary to the woman in the state of Istihaadah, for this state comprises an unfixed period of time, and there is not a time in it in which she can be commanded to begin fasting (again). So because of this, it is not possible to caution against it, the same as for throwing up unexpectedly, emitting blood due to a wound, getting a boil, Ihtilaam (when sexual fluid comes out of the private parts not due to intercourse or foreplay), as well as all the other things that do not have a fixed time in which they could be cautioned against. So this (Istihaadah) was not made as something that nullifies the fast, such as the blood of menstruation." [Majmoo’-ul- Fataawaa: 25/251]
2. The Menstruating woman as well as the pregnant and breastfeeding women, if they break their fast in Ramadaan, must make up for the missed days of fasting in the time that occurs between the Ramadaan in which they broke their fast and the forthcoming Ramadaan. But to complete them early is better. And if there only remain a few days before the next Ramadaan begins, then they are obligated to make up the missed days of fasting (from the previous Ramadaan) such that the new Ramadaan will not come upon them while they still have to fast days from the previous Ramadaan. But if they don’t do this and Ramadaan comes upon them while they still owe days of fasting from the previous Ramadaan, and they have no (valid) excuse for delaying it, they are obligated to make up the missed days and to feed a needy person for each day. But if they have a valid excuse, then they must only make up the missed days of fasting. This goes the same for those who must make up the missed days of fasting due to sickness or traveling. Their ruling is like the ruling of the woman who broke the fast due to menses, with the previously mentioned details.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
Sunday, July 31, 2011
Thursday, July 28, 2011
Just in case this happens to you (a template)
As Salaamu alaikum wa rahmatullaah wa barakaatuh
Below, I am just sharing this letter that I had to recently send to a store that you may be able to use in shaa allaah if this happens to you:
Hello, I am a new customer of your market and became a member within the first week of shopping there as I have been in search of a new all natural/organic market. Needless to say by my frequent shopping, I am very pleased with your market and have not had any bad experiences there until today.
I am a very modest woman who observe my religion to the fullest and in doing so I wear the tradition dress/garments of a modest protected woman. I always welcome questions of my religion as it is my duty to invite, however I do not think it is of good etiquette of any of your employees to question on whether I am hot in my clothing in the summer or not. I found it to be very offensive and unnecessary as anyone with intellect knows that the summer brings heat for the lewd and modestly dressed individual.
Everyone from employees to even your customers have been very friendly with every one of my visits so far and I do not wish to have an experience as I mentioned above in your store in the future. I thank you for listening. I trust that this will be handled discreetly, however you may contact me if you need to.
My dear sisters, In sha Allaah this may be of some benefit to you to use as a possible template. You may arrange it to fit your situation.
Wednesday, July 27, 2011
Indeed Our Lives are Extremely Short
"Allaah the Exalted says:
'And I (Allaah) did not create the Jinn and mankind except that they should worship Me.'
[Soorah adh-Dhaariyat 51:56]
Worship in the Arabic language consists of obedience and submissiveness; it is said in the Arabic language that it is a path that is paved (Tareeq Mu'abbad), which means it is made accessible and clear.
The legal definition of worship, as described by Shaykh al Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah: It is a comprehensive term for everything that Allaah loves and is pleased with from the statements and actions, including the apparent from amongst them, as well as the hidden.
However, it is as though we have been created for this world - for eating, drinking, playing and amusement - because we do not establish what Allaah desires from us. Indeed, we hasten towards what opposes our purpose. So let us not play in this world; for indeed our lives are extremely short."
**This was taken from the book by the Shaykhah Umm 'Abdillaah al-Waadi'yyah titled " My Advice to the Women".**
Tuesday, July 12, 2011
There are Six Things...
Bismillaahir Rahmaanir Rahim
Indeed all praise is for Allaah. He is alone and without any partner. May His peace and blessings be upon His Noble and Beloved Prophet, his family and his companions, ameen.
To Proceed:
As Salaamu Alaikum wa Rahmatullaah,
The following is taken from the book:
Az Zuhd- Renouncing Worldy Pleasures for Gaining Allah's Closeness by
Ibn Qayyim Al Jawzeeyah.
"There are six things that if a slave possesses them, he deserves the
title Zuhd:
First: Moderation in one's spending of wealth
Second: lack of desire for leadership
Third: Moderation in one's appearance
Fourth: Not engaging too much with the people
Fifth: Learning to control one's desires
Sixth: Moderation in things not concerning Allah
Ibn Ja'laal said:
"Zuhd is to know that this life is a temporary one that will pass
away; it should not be magnified in one's heart, nor should much
focus be placed on it. Rather, one should turn away from it; it is
said Zuhd means to refrain from this Dunya without showing off
Az Zuhd- Renouncing Worldy Pleasures for Gaining Allah's Closeness by
Ibn Qayyim Al Jawzeeyah.
"There are six things that if a slave possesses them, he deserves the
title Zuhd:
First: Moderation in one's spending of wealth
Second: lack of desire for leadership
Third: Moderation in one's appearance
Fourth: Not engaging too much with the people
Fifth: Learning to control one's desires
Sixth: Moderation in things not concerning Allah
Ibn Ja'laal said:
"Zuhd is to know that this life is a temporary one that will pass
away; it should not be magnified in one's heart, nor should much
focus be placed on it. Rather, one should turn away from it; it is
said Zuhd means to refrain from this Dunya without showing off
Thursday, June 30, 2011
Sunday, June 26, 2011
Monday, June 20, 2011
The Death of Usama bin Laden by Sheikh 'Abdul Muhsin al 'Abaad
Click Here to View In shaa Allaah
بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم
سُئل شيخنا عبدالمحسن بن حمد العبَّاد البدر عن مقتل الخارجي أسامة بن لادن
الموافق لـيوم الأثنين 28/5/1432هـ بعد صلاة العشاء (بدون تسجيل)
السؤال: ما هو القول الوسط في مقتل أسامة بن لادن فهناك من فرح بمقتله,
وهناك من قال إنه كان مجاهداً وحكم له بالشهادة؟
أجاب شيخنا: كيف مجاهد؟! نعم هو مجاهد في سبيل الشيطان.
أسامة بن لادن جلب شراً عظيماً على المسلمين
ولا شك أن ذهابه فيه راحة لهم, يرتاح الناس بذهابه
In The Name of Allah – The Beneficient, The Merciful
On Monday May 2, 2011. Sheikh 'Abdul Muhsin al 'Abaad (may Allah preserve him) was asked concerning the death of Usama bin Laden.
Question:
What is the just opinion concerning the death of Usama bin Laden? There are some who have rejoiced over his death, and there are others who claim that he died as a martyr.
Answer:
How is he considered a martyr?! Yes, in fact he fought in the path of the Shaytan. Because of Usama bin Laden, much evil has befallen the Muslims. There is no doubt, his absence brings about comfort for the Muslims. They can relax now that he is gone. (Arabic text provided by the Sheikh's student 'Abdul Rahmaan al 'Umaysaan: http://www.sahab.net/forums/index.php?showtopic=120559
Translator's comment:
After reading this, some may find within themselves dislike for the statement of the Sheikh, but the reality is, due to the actions of Usama bin Laden and those who follow his methodology, much evil has befallen the Muslim 'Ummah. Entire Muslim countries have been fought, innocent Muslims have been killed, Muslim women have been raped, and the list goes on and on. Therefore, the speech of the Sheikh is not strange. The Muslims need those who can bring about benefit and ease to the 'Ummah, instead of those who cause harm and turmoil. The Prophet r said:
المُسْلِمُ مَنْ سَلِمَ المُسْلِمُونَ مِنْ لِسَانِهِ وَيَدِهِ
"The (true) Muslim, is the one who the other Muslims are safe from his tongue and hands." Sahih al Bukhari #10
Abu Sa'eed al Khudri t mentioned that the Prophet r was asked:
أَيُّ النَّاسِ أَفْضَلُ؟
Who is the best person?
The Prophet r responded:
مُؤْمِنٌ يُجَاهِدُ فِي سَبِيلِ اللَّهِ بِنَفْسِهِ وَمَالِهِ
The believer who fights in the way of Allah with his body and his wealth.
The companions then asked: And then who?
The Prophet r replied:
مُؤْمِنٌ فِي شِعْبٍ مِنَ الشِّعَابِ يَتَّقِي اللَّهَ، وَيَدَعُ النَّاسَ مِنْ شَرِّهِ
The believer who fears Allah, remains amongst the people and protects others from his evil. Sahih al Bukhari#2789
The above proofs, and many others, inform that the true believer is one who protects others from his evil (direct evil, or indirect evil), and he is one who does not wish harm for himself nor does he wish it for others.
If a person were to say:
Isn't it correct that we fight the disbelievers in order to raise the word of Allah?
The answer would be:
Yes, fighting is legislated but with conditions and regulations. If a person seeks to fight in the way of Allah, he must understand these conditions and regulations before doing so. If not, he may cause greater harm than good, thereby causing greater trials and tribulations upon himself and the Muslim community.
It is because of this that we find the scholars of Islam mentioning, in their books of Islamic jurisprudence, chapters on Jihad. This informs us that the matter of Jihad is not based on mere desire and emotion, but rather it is a very important issue in Islam that must be studied and adhered to in order to bring about correct results.
An example of the fact that Jihad has conditions and regulations is illustrated in the statement of the companion Rabaah bin Rabe'a who said:
While we were with the Messenger of Allah r during a battle, he noticed some people crowding around something. Upon seeing this, the Messenger of Allah r said:
Go and see why they are crowded around.
They informed him that it was a (disbelieving) female who was killed during the battle. Upon hearing this, the Prophet said:
مَا كَانَتْ هَذِهِ لِتُقَاتِلَ
She should have not been killed.
Then the Prophet r sent someone to inform Khalid bin Waleed that he should not kill women.
(Sunan Abi Dawood #2669 and declared authentic by Sh. Al Albani)
It is likewise reported in Sahih Muslim that the Prophet r forbid the companions from killing disbelieving children. (Sahih Muslim #1731)
Sheikh al Islam Ibn Taymiyah stated:
The Quran and Sunnah are filled with orders related to Jihad and its merits, but it is incumbent that one knows the difference between the legislated Jihad, which was ordered by Allah and His Messenger, and the innovated Jihad which is performed by the deviants, those who fight in obedience to the shaytan. These individuals believe that they are fighting upon the path of Allah. This (deviant) Jihad is performed by the likes of the people of innovation and desire, such as the Khawarij and those who are similar to them. (Al Eknaiyah pg.473)
An example of the important principle (preventing harm takes precedence over bringing about good) is derived from the statement of Allah – The Mighty and Majestic:
وَلَا تَسُبُّوا الَّذِينَ يَدْعُونَ مِنْ دُونِ اللَّهِ فَيَسُبُّوا اللَّهَ عَدْوًا بِغَيْرِ عِلْمٍ
{Do not insult those whom call on other than Allah, and as a result, they will then insult Allah wrongfully without knowledge.}
Surah al An'am:108
Al Hafith Ibn Katheer mentioned:
In this verse Allah is prohibiting His Prophet and the believers from insulting the false deities, which are worshipped other than Allah. This is the case even though insulting them may contain some benefit, but (the prohibition is mentioned) due to the greater harm that may occur This harm occurs when the believers insult the false deities of the disbelievers, this would cause for them (disbelievers) to insult that which the believers worship, Who is Allah, The One there is no deity worthy of worship except Him. (Tafsir ibn Katheer)
The above proof informs that it is forbidden for a Muslim to indulge in that which is recommended or even commanded, if that act will cause greater harm.
In present times, there is no doubt that the actions of the khawarij of our time have been the direct or indirect reason of much of the turmoil which the Muslim 'Ummah is facing today.
May Allah correct the affairs of the believers.
Note: After translating this fatwa by our beloved Sheikh 'Abdul Muhsin, I noticed that the brothers at www.salafitalk.com had already posted it. May Allah bless them and reward them for their work.
Mustafa George DeBerry
Riyadh, KSA.
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