CLASS NOTES: The 7th Condition..Al Qubool, the acceptance

Our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefah presented to us the seventh condition of La Illaha IllAllaah mentioned by the Scholars of Ahlul Sunnah wal Jama’ah, which is Al Qubool, the acceptance, which negates the rejection and arrogance.

The acceptance meaning the acceptance of the requirements of La Illaha IllAllaah, with one’s heart, tongue and by way of one’s actions.

When one accepts La Illaha IllAllaah and that which it necessitates, this will negate the rejection and also negate pride.

From the proofs mentioned by the Ulema for this condition is Allaah Subhanahu wa ta ala mentioning in Surah (43:23-25):

(43:23)

“And similarly, We sent not a warner before you (O Muhammad SalAllaahu alaihe wa Sallam) to any town (people) but the luxurious ones among them said: "We found our fathers following a certain way and religion, and we will indeed follow their footsteps."

Where Allaah says “..We sent not a warner before you (O Muhammad SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam)..”, here, Allaah Subhanahu wa ta ala is informing the Prophet Muhammad SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam that he is not the only one whose message was rejected or turn down. And in Allaah Subhanahu wa taa ala mentioning to the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam that which took place with the previous Messengers was a means of strengthening him. That is by when an individual knows that he is not the only one going through a hardship and that there are others who have experienced the same type of difficulties, if not more, this lightens the burden of one dealing with their trials and tribulations. It also establishes that the Prophet is not being rejected because he is calling to falsehood, rather he is being rejected because the people prefer falsehood over the truth.
The Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam was commanded by Allaah to clarify his position and that which he was upon. And in this is a guideline for us to follow.

Allaah Subhanahu wa ta ala mentions in Surah (12:108):

Say (O Muhammad SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam): "This is my way; I invite unto Allâh (i.e. to the Oneness of Allâh - Islâmic Monotheism) with sure knowledge, I and whosoever follows me (also must invite others to Allâh i.e to the Oneness of Allâh - Islâmic Monotheism) with sure knowledge. And Glorified and Exalted be Allâh (above all that they associate as partners with Him). And I am not of the Mushrikûn (polytheists, pagans, idolaters and disbelievers in the Oneness of Allâh; those who worship others along with Allâh or set up rivals or partners to Allâh)."

Here, the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam is clarifying his methodology and that is :

1. (In him saying) “This is my path, this is my way, I call to Allaah.”

2. His call to Allaah is upon Basheera (insight), knowledge and wisdom.

3. He was commanded to praise Allaah Subhanahu wa ta ala and glorifying Him by saying “SubhaanAllaah! (Glory be to Allaah, the Most High, Who is far removed from imperfection). And that he was not from amongst the polytheists.

This is an indication that his call was to Allaah, upon insight and done sincerely for Allaah Subhanahu wa ta ala.

So those in the field of giving dawah are to:

1. Call to Allaah and not to oneself

2. Call upon knowledge and wisdom , not ignorance and oppression.

3. Be sincere in one’s call, not doing it to be seen or for worldly purpose.

Also from the verse (43:23), from the elite of these people “the luxurious ones”, they would oppose the warners. And in a lot of cases you will find the rich being in opposition to the haqq (truth) because of what Allaah Subhanahu wa ta ala has given them from the dunya as a test, they take it as a sign that they are upon guidance.

The Ulema have mentioned that whoever is an evil person but has a lot of riches and because of those riches the individual sees him or herself upon guidance, they have the misconception of Fir’awn, one of the greatest tyrants known in the history of mankind, considered himself as being upon what was correct because of which Allaah has decreed for him to have from the riches of this dunya. But in reality, it was Musa (Alayhis Salaam) and Haroon and their followers who did not have the riches that Fir’awn possessed but believed in Allaah Subhanahu wa ta ala and His message and they were the ones upon the truth.

So money is not the measuring stick to decide who is upon which is correct and who is not upon what is correct. As the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam mentions that had this dunya (world) been equal to the wing of a mosquito with Allaah, then Allaah would not have given a kafir (disbeliever) a drink of water from this dunya. The dunya is something that is given to the believers and disbelievers alike, but the deen is only given to the believers. So be aware of judging who is upon the truth (starting with ourselves) by how much of the worldly possessions an individual has.

(43:24)

"(The warner) said: "Even if I bring you better guidance than that which you found your fathers following?" They said: "Verily, We disbelieve in that with which you have been sent."

(43:25)

"So We took revenge of them, then see what was the end of those who denied (Islâmic Monotheism)."

These verses entail a great amount of benefit. It shows that the acceptance of La Illaha IllAllaah and that which it entails is a must. Allaah Subhanahu wa ta ala mentions how He dealt with those who would deny or not accept (reject) the message. And they did this from following the ways of their forefathers.

Also from the proofs are verses (37:35-36):

(37:35)

"Truly, when it was said to them: Lâ ilâha ill-Allâh "(none has the right to be worshipped but Allâh)," they puffed themselves up with pride (i.e. denied it)."

(37:36)

"And (they) said: "Are we going to abandon our âliha (gods) for the sake of a mad poet?"

This means that when they were called to La Illaha IllAllaah, they responded in an arrogant manner (though they were not called in that manner).

Arrogance is a dangerous affair that will prevent a person from entering into the Paradise.

Pride is from the characteristics of the disbelievers, it is from the characteristics of the hypocrites and it is from the characteristics of Iblees (satan).

Also in these verses, Allaah Subhanahu wa ta ala describes to us another evil characteristic from the characteristics of the disbelievers when rejecting the truth. And that is that when they are called to the truth, they attack the integrity of the caller (attack the caller’s character) and describe them with that which is not befitting (as in “mad poet“). They try to justify this as an excuse to reject the truth and to arrogantly turn away.

The statement of La Illaha IllAllaah is easy to say upon the tongue, to believe in the heart and for one to live by. The proof of this is in Surah (7:42):

"But those who believed (in the Oneness of Allâh - Islâmic Monotheism), and worked righteousness - We tax not any person beyond his scope, such are the dwellers of Paradise. They will abide therein."

So when calling the people to Islaam, we inform them that entering into the fold of Al-Islaam is something that is not a burden or something that cannot be attained or practiced in all places and at all times.

From the narrations as a proof is from Sahih Al Bukhari, hadeeth #79:

Narrated Abu Musa (RadiAllaahu anhu): The Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam said, “The example of guidance and knowledge with which Allaah has sent me is like abundant rain falling on the earth, some of which was fertile soil that absorbed rain-water and brought forth vegetation and grass in abundance. (And) another portion of it was hard and held the rain-water and Allaah benefited the people with it and they utilized it for drinking, making their animals drink from it and to irrigate the land for cultivation. (And) a portion of it was barren which could neither hold the water nor bring forth vegetation (then the land gave no benefits). The first is the example of the person who comprehends Allaah’s religion (Islaam) and gets benefit (from the knowledge) which Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala has revealed through me (The Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa Sallam) and learns and then teaches it to others. The last example is that of a person who does not care for it and does not take Allaah’s guidance revealed through me (he is like the barren land).”

In this hadeeth, the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam describes three (3) types of land:

1. The land that has taken in water and brought forth vegetation, a good fertile land.

2. The land which did not take in the water, however it contained the water and the water was used for agriculture, to drink, for animals to use and the likes.

3. A Barren land, a hard land. This land did not take in the water nor did it hold and contain the water for people to benefit from it.

The Ulema mentioned the example of the first land, that took in the rain-water, that brought forth vegetation and benefit from the water, this is an example of those who have understood that which the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam came with, they eternalized it , they benefited from it and then they taught others (benefiting the  people with the knowledge). This individual is one who has understanding of the deen. The second land, that does not take the water in for itself but holds the water to benefit the people by way of drinking and the likes, this refers to those who have memorized that which The Messenger SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam brought and the people benefit from their memorization. However the ones who memorized, they do not have understanding of that which they memorize. The third land, that does not take in the rain-water nor contain the water for people to benefit from it, this is an example of the one who has no concern for that which the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam came with. The person does not accept the knowledge and the guidance from the Prophet, rather they turn away from it and reject it. Just like this barren land, they do not benefit from it nor do they benefit others.

Allaah Subhanahu wa ta ala mentions in Surah (6:122):

"Is he who was dead (without Faith by ignorance and disbelief) and We gave him life (by knowledge and Faith) and set for him a light (of Belief) whereby he can walk amongst men, like him who is in the darkness (of disbelief, polytheism and hypocrisy) from which he can never come out? Thus it is made fair­seeming to the disbelievers that which they used to do."

This revelation of Allaah Subhanahu wa ta ala is a light and guidance from Allaah Subhanahu wa ta ala and He gives it to who-so-ever He  Subhanahu wa ta ala pleases. As not everyone will be from the first group mentioned by the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam. It is possible that we may not be from the second group. As many of the people (people in general) on this earth are from the third group. The majority of the people on the earth have no concern for what the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam has brought from the knowledge and the guidance. The people are distracted by the delights and the temporary pleasures of this world from which the shaitan makes fairseeming (such as money, power, fame, glory and other than that). The shaitan does this to distract from what is most important and distracts from fulfilling the purpose of one’s creation.
So it is upon us to always want the best and to ask Allaah Subhanahu wa ta ala to make us of those from the first group, as the first group is the best from the other three. Those examples paint a picture for us to know what to strive for and to ask Allaah Subhanahu wa ta ala for.

The Scholars have mentioned that from this narration we see the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam described that which he has come with (knowledge and guidance) as the rain-water and indeed there is a benefit in it. As the rain-water gives life to the earth, likewise the knowledge and the guidance gives life to the dead hearts and the dead souls.
And the benefit is that the knowledge and the guidance has an affect upon an individual. In order for us to be from the best of the people, the knowledge and the guidance that we learn from the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam has to have a positive affect upon us. Meaning that once we learn, something changes inside and then after that change inside the results of that change is seen outwardly and that is when others begin to benefit.

Please refer to the class recordings for extended benefit:

http://sites.google.com/site/whatisislamlearningseries/home/multimedia

If there are any mistakes that I have made in relaying this class in text form please forgive me.

These classes by our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefa are on Paltalk (religion>Islam>What is Islam1) on Wednesdays and Sundays @ 9pm est
For previous class recordings please visit : http://whatisislam1.multiply.com

Barak Allaahu feekum

CLASS NOTES: The 6th Condition...Al Inqiad or The Adherence

As Salaamu alaikum wa rahmatullaahi wa barakaatuhu

Our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefah has relayed to us the sixth condition of La Illaha IllAllaah,  Al Inqiad, or The Adherence, The Submission (with it’s rights) to La Illaha IllAllaah.

The rights are: The obligatory actions which are to be performed sincerely for the sake of Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala and seeking His Pleasure.

This condition (Al Inqiad or The adherence) negates the abandonment, meaning the abandonment of the submission to the rights of La Illaha IllAllaah.

Al Inqiad is also seen in some of the writings of some of the Mashaykh as “Al Istislaam”.

Al Istislaam has the meaning of submission.

So we have to submit and adhere to La Illaha IllAllaah.

Some of the proofs the Ulema have mentioned of Al Inqiad as a condition is in Qu’ran:

(39:54)

“And turn in repentance and in obedience with true Faith (Islamic Monotheism) to your Lord and submit to Him (in Islaam) before the torment comes upon you, then you will not be helped.”

(4:125)

“And who can be better in religion than one who submits his face (himself) to Allaah and is a good doer…”

A person’s actions will not be that of a good doer unless it is in accordance to the Sunnah of the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam. A person’s actions are rejected unless two (2) conditions are fulfilled:

1.  Ikhlaas (sincerity)

2. Al It’ibah (the following of the Messenger SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam)

Regarding these conditions, people are divided into 4 categories:

1st - The ones whose acts of worship are done and performed sincerely for Allaah and done in accordance to the Sunnah of the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam.

2nd - The ones whose actions are sincerely for Allaah, however they are not in accordance to the Sunnah of the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam

3rd - The ones whose actions are not done sincerely for Allaah, however their actions are done in accordance to the Sunnah of the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam.

4th - The one whose actions are not done sincerely for Allaah, nor are their actions done in accordance to the Sunnah of the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam.

The Ulema mentioned that the 1st category of people will be accepted, while the other three will be rejected.

(31:22)

“And who so ever submits his face (himself) to Allaah and he is a good doer, he has grasped the most trustworthy handhold (La Illaha IllAllaah).”

(4:65)

“But no, by your Lord, they can have no Faith, until they make you (O Muhammad - SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam) judge in all disputes between them, and find in themselves no resistance against your decisions, and accept (them) with full submission.”

The Hadeeth regarding this verse is in Sahih Al Bukhari # 4585, Narrated Urwa: Zubair quarreled with a man from the Ansar concerning of a natural mountainous stream at Al-Harra. The Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam said, “O Zubair! Irrigate (your land) and then let the water flow to your neighbor.” The Ansari said, “ O Allaah’s Messenger! (Is this because) he (Zubair) is your cousin?’ At that, the Prophet’s face became red (with anger) and he said, “O Zubair! Irrigate (your land) and then withhold the water till it fills the land up to the walls, and then let it flow to your neighbor.” So, the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam enabled Az Zubair to take full right after the Ansari provoked his anger. The Prophet had previously given an order that was in favour of both of them. Az Zubair said, “I don’t think but this Verse (4:65) was revealed in this connection.

Also of the narrations as proof from the Ulema is a weak one, as some of the Ulema see the narration as being authentic. it’s a narration on the authority of Abdullah Ibn Amir, it mentioned that the Prophet SalAllahu alaihe wa sallam said, “ None of you will truly believe until his desires follow that which I have come with.”
Again, this narration is declared weak, but some of the Ulema see it as being a good one.

Please refer to the class recordings for extended benefit:

http://sites.google.com/site/whatisislamlearningseries/home/multimedia

If there are any mistakes that I have made in relaying this class in text form please forgive me.

These classes by our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefa are on Paltalk (religion>Islam>What is Islam1) on Wednesdays and Sundays @ 9pm est
For previous class recordings please visit : http://whatisislam1.multiply.com

Barak Allaahu feekum and see you in class in sha Allaah.

4 Levels of Striving against One's Own Soul

As Salaamu alaikum wa rahmatullaah

Our brother mentioned in class that Shaykhul Islam Ibn Qayyim al Jawziyyah Rahimahullaah mentioned that striving against one’s own soul are of four(4) levels:

1. [1st Level] Attaining beneficial knowledge (knowledge of the Qur’an and The Sunnah of the Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam with the understanding of the Sahabah).

2. [2nd Level] The Righteous actions (acting according to that knowledge).

3. [3rd Level] Calling (the people) to that knowledge.

4. [4th Level] Being patient upon the harm that one encounters (from implementing the first three levels)

This class is given by our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefa are on Paltalk (religion>Islam>What is Islam1) on Wednesdays and Sundays @ 9pm est
For previous class recordings please visit : http://whatisislam1.multiply.com

4 Matters to abandon when it comes to the Names and Attributes of Allaah

As Salaamu alaikum wa rahmatullaah

Our  brother in Islam Abu Yusuf Khaleefah mentioned in class 4 matters that we abandon when it comes to the Names and Attributes of Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala , we are to believe in His Names and Attributes without:

1. Ta’weel - Distorting the true meaning.

2. Ta’teel -  Negating (disregarding) them.

3. Tashbeeh - Resembling Allaah to the creation.

4. Takyeef - Asking how or why.


This class is given by our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefa are on Paltalk (religion>Islam>What is Islam1) on Wednesdays and Sundays @ 9pm est
For previous class recordings please visit : http://whatisislam1.multiply.com

What is heard in class about...Groups of Apostasy and Proofs from Qur'an on what Characteristics that Allaah Loves and Hates

As Salaamu alaikum wa rahmatullaah

We picked up where we left off from the last class and the last verse that we're covering was Surah Ma‘idah (5:54) where Allaah states:

    “O you who believe! Whoever from among you turn back from his religion (Islam), Allaah will bring a people whom He will love and they will love Him; humble towards the believers, stern towards the disbelievers, fighting in the Way of Allaah, and never fear of the blame of the blamers. That is the Grace of Allaah which He bestows on whom He wills. And Allaah is All-Sufficient for His creatures’ needs, All-Knower.”

We also covered some benefits from this verse:

It establishes that Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala has mentioned that there are those who will apostate after being believers and it being possible for one to apostate after being a believer.

The Ulema have mentioned that apostasy can come from 4 areas:

1. It could be a CREED or a belief that one holds which will invalidate one’s faith that cause the person to  become an apostate.

2. It could be a STATEMENT that one makes with his tongue that will cause a person to apostate.

3. It could be an ACTION that is done which can cause the person to apostate.

4. The matter of DOUBT.

There are three(3) groups of apostasy:

1. Extreme - The Khawarij - Those who declare the Muslims to be disbelievers because the committing of major sins. They are overwhelmed in the area of fear. They only look towards the verses in the Qur’an which mention  the punishment of the Hell-fire and Allaah’s wrath being severe and the likes (of these text). They do not look towards the text that mention Allaah being the Most Merciful and other than that.

     

2.   Negligent - The Mur’jiah - (1)Those who hold the position that as long as a person has faith (Eemaan) that sins will not harm them. (2)Just as acts of obedience will not benefit the individual as long as the person is a disbeliever.

The scholars (of al-Islam) have mentioned that the second statement is correct but the first statement is a statement of falsehood. Meaning that acts of righteousness will not benefit the person who is a disbeliever. As long as an individual lives upon polytheism and disbelief, it invalidates the individuals actions. As for the first statement (that sins will not harm a person who has faith), this is falsehood.

3.   Between Extremism and Negligence - Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama’ah - Holds that Eemaan is the belief of the heart, a statement of the tongue and actions of the body parts. It increases with righteous actions (obedience to Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala)  and it decreases with sins (obedience to the shaitan). It is strengthened with knowledge and weakened with ignorance. This is from the statement of Imam Ahmed Ibn Hanbal (May Allaah have mercy upon him).

From the Ahlus Sunnah wal Jama’ah, we describe Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala with that which he describes himself with. We do not attribute with Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala descriptions of falsehood, deficiencies, or other than that from the evil matters that are not befitting for Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala.


Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala is independent and not in need of mankind  and we (the believers) should never think that our practice and belief of Islam is a favor to Allaah rather it is Allaah who has favored us, as He mentioned in Qur’an (47:17, addressing the Prophet):

“They regard as favor to you (O Muhammad, SalAllaahu alaihe was sallam) that they have embraced Islam. Say; “Count not your Islam as a favor to me. Nay, but Allaah has conferred a favor upon you that He has guided you to the Faith if you indeed are true.”

…and we must believe this wholeheartedly as this will be a means to humble oneself. We should be humble, well-mattered and submissive to Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala.

Those who apostate from Islam, the harm is on themselves and their apostasy does not harm Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala in the least. And a person’s righteousness is for the benefit of his on soul.

Also to understand, a changing of the people is not only for those who apostate from the deen of al-Islam, this is also for the people of sin. When Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala gives us a favor or blesses us and we do not take care of that favor, He can surely remove us and bring about people who will preserve the favor or blessing and live according to the Law of al-Islam.

Throughout the Qur’an, Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala establishes His Love for people who have certain characteristics (here are some in which this class covered):

(2:195) - “And spend in the Cause of Allah (ie. Jihad of all kinds) and do not throw yourselves into destruction (by not spending your wealth in the Cause of Allaah), and do good. Truly, Allaah loves Al-Muhsinun (the good-doers) .”

(2:222) - “ …Allaah loves those who turn unto Him in repentance and loves those who purify themselves (by taking a bath and cleaning and washing thoroughly their private parts, bodies, for their prayers).”

(3:76) - “Yes, whoever fulfills his pledge and fears Allaah much; verily, then Allaah loves those who are Al-Muttaqun (the pious).”

(3:146) - : “...And Allaah love Al-Sabirun (the patient).”

(3:159) - “…certainly, Allaah loves those who put their trust (in Him).”

(5:42) - “…verily Allaah loves those who act justly.”

(and there are other ayah throughout the Qur’an describing who Allaah loves, but these were covered in this class)

The people that hold these characteristics will be the people that Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala will replace with those who fell into apostasy.

There are also ayah throughout the Qur’an on people who hold characteristics that Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala does not love:

(2:190) - “…Truly, Allaah likes not the transgressors.”

(2:205) - “…and Allaah likes not mischief (corruption).”

(2:276) - “…And Allaah likes not the disbelievers, sinners.”

(3:57)   - “…And Allaah does not like the Zalimun (polytheists and wrong-doers).

(4:36)  - “ ...Verily, Allaah does not like such as are arrogant and/or boastful.”

(5:64)  - “…And Allaah does not like the mischief-makers (those who cause corruption).”

(6:141)  - “…Verily, Allaah likes not (those who waste by extravagance).”

(8: 58)  - “…Certainly, Allaah likes not the treacherous (those who betray).”

So we see that Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala loves praiseworthy characteristics and hate evil characteristics.

If there are any mistakes that I have made in relaying this class in text form please forgive me.

These classes by our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefa are on Paltalk (religion>Islam>What is Islam1) on Wednesdays and Sundays @ 9pm est
For previous class recordings please visit : http://whatisislam1.multiply.com

May Allaah Subhanahu wa ta ala protect us from apostasy, remove those characteristics that we have that are hated by Him and bless us with those characteristics that are loved by Him, Aameen.

The Means to Establish Yourself in this Deen

The Means to Establish Yourself in this Deen (9 points):

1. Spending in the way of Allaah (spending for Allaah from your wealth).

2. Fulfilling the Commandments from Allaah and leaving off the prohibitions.

3. Contemplating over the Qur’an.

   *added note: meaning to contemplate over the meaning of the Qur'an, understanding what you are reading/reciting and contemplating over it.

4. Benefiting from the stories of the Prophets and Messengers and taking them as examples.

    *added note: One of the scholars were asked, “What book is the best to    read regarding the Prophets and the Messengers?”, he replied, “The Qur’an.”

5. Loving Allaah and His Messenger.

    *added note: This is an obligation on the Muslim, for loving Allaah is obedience to Him. The more obedient you are, the greater the love for Him.

6. Loving what Allaah loves and Hating what Allaah hates.

7. To believe (having Eemaan) and having righteous deeds.

    *added note: There are three(3) characteristics of the people who has tasted the sweetness of Eemaan:

     1.  Allaah and His Messenger are more beloved to them than anything.
     2. They love a person for the Sake of Allaah.
     3. They hate to apostate (going back to disbelief) as they hate to be thrown into the hellfire.

8. To be encouraging with truthfulness and patience.

9. To remember Allaah (to be in remembrance of Allaah).

This came from a talk that our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefah gave on Paltalk on 2/2/10 from a weekly class on “Rules Pertaining to the Masjid”.

*If there are any mistakes that I have made in relaying this portion of the talk in text form please forgive me.

May Allaah accept our intentions as good and our efforts in pleasing Him alone, Ameen.

CLASS NOTES: The 5th Condition...Al-Mahabbah (Love)

In class, We’ve arrived to the fifth condition which is Al-Mahabbah or the Love. Love meaning Love for the statement “La Illaha IllAllaah” and that which it indicates. The Love negates the Hatred. The proof for Love being a condition of La Illaha IllAllaah is in Qur’an (2:165) where Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala states:
    
    “And of mankind are some who take (for worship) others besides Allaah as rivals (to Allaah). They love them as they love Allaah. But those who believe, love Allaah more (than anything else)……”

The Scholars have mentioned that the meaning of this ayah is that from amongst the people are those who take from besides Allaah equals, loving them as they love Allaah.

1. The polytheists love their false deities as they love Allaah.
2. The polytheists love their false deities as the believers love Allaah.

Regarding the believers being more strong in the Love for Allaah, the scholars have given two(2) statements for this meaning:

1. The believers love Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala more than the disbelievers love Allaah.
2. The believers love Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala more than the polytheists love their falses deities (their idols).

Also taken from Ahlil Ilm, are the different categories of Love in three(3) sets:

The 1st set (divided into 3):

1. Love for Allaah - (this does not negate Tawheed, rather it is from it‘s completion)
Example(s): Love for the sake of Allaah
The strongest bonds in faith are the Love for the sake of Allaah and the Hate for the sake of Allaah.

2. Natural Love - (that which the person doesn’t prefer over the Love of Allaah, this does not negate the Love for Allaah).
Example(s): love of a spouse, love of a child, love of wealth, food, drink and clothing.

Based upon this is when The Prophet SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam was questioned; “Who are the people most beloved to you?” He said, “Aisha.” And when asked from amongst the men, he said , “Aisha’s father.”

3. Loving along with Allaah - (which negates the Love of Allaah)
that there is love for other than Allaah, equal to or more than the love for Allaah.
Example(s): Things other than Allaah conflicting with the Love for Allaah and one gives precedence to other than Allaah to love equal to or more than Allaah.

The 2nd set (divided into 2):

1. Love of servitude - (must be sincerely for Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala Alone)
It is not permissible to direct this type of Love to other than Allaah, just as it is not permissible to prostrate to other than Allaah.

As mentioned by the Scholars, this type of Love entails one to lower and humble oneself, restricting this to be solely for the one who is loved. To display unconditional love and obedience. This type of Love is only for Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala.

It is mentioned by Shaykhul Islam Ibn Qayyim al Jawziyyah rahimahullâh : “That the worship of the Most Merciful, it is the utmost form of His Love, along with the servant lowering himself. These two matters are the pivots of worship.”

2. Love which is not from love of servitude - (has 4 types)

1. Natural Love (food, drink, spouse and other permissible matters which entails pleasure)
2. Love of Honor (Like a child’s love for their parents. Parents who are not of the polytheists or disbelievers)
Example: The child loves the parent(s) with respect because the parent(s) have raised them correctly and treated them well.
3. Love of Mercy (Like a parent loves a child)
4. Love of Companionship (business partner, colleague, travel partner)

*Note: These 4 types mentioned are not from the types of Ibaadah because in these types of love, you do not have one lowering oneself to the one who is loved, as one would do with Allaah Subhanhu wa at ala.

The 3rd set (divided into 3):

1. Love of Allaah (from Ibaadah)
2. Loving for the sake of Allaah
Example(s): Love for the Messengers and  the Righteous
3. Loving along with Allaah

These are very important to know when it comes to our relationship with Allaah Subhanhu wa at ala and our relationship with one another and how we view us to be.
This also indicates that we have to turn back to the Scholars of al-Islam for the clarity. As for example, you find sometimes that an individual may criticize a person for them saying that they love their (disbelieving) mother saying that we are not suppose to love the disbelievers. Which is true from one aspect, but then from another aspect, the person is not blamed. We do not love the disbelievers with the religious love whether they are our family or not. Meaning we do not love their practices of disbelief and shirk, but to have the natural love for them, as the Scholars have mentioned from the different types of categories of Love. And the Natural Love is something that a person is not blamed for, rather the person is blamed for the religious love and if one falls into this, it will invalidate their Islam, because we have to Love what Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala Loves and Hate what Allaah Subhanahu wa at ala Hates.


These classes by our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefa are on Paltalk (religion>Islam>What is Islam1) on Wednesdays and Sundays @ 9pm est
For previous class recordings please visit : http://whatisislam1.multiply.com

May Allaah guard and protect us from loving other than Him, equal to or more than Him and increase us in eemaan and knowledge of this beautiful religion, Aameen.

The Test Answers for the class series: Understanding "Laa Ilaaha Illallaah" (26-50)

* Note: The test answers are based on that which we’ve covered in this class series.

26.    The proof for this statement is in Qur’an (47:19)

27.    The 8 points that lead to the knowledge of La Illaha Illallaah are:
    1. Contemplating over the Names and Attributes of Allaah
    2. Knowing that Allaah is singled out in the arranging of the affairs of creation
    3. Having knowledge that Allaah is singled out in bestowing of the bounties, which are outward and inward, that which is connected to one’s deen and one’s dunyah.
    4. That which we see and hear of ,of the reward of those who established tawheed, from the awliya of Allaah.
    5. Having knowledge of the descriptions of that which is worshipped along side and taken as deities and how they are deficient.
    6. That the books of Allaah are all agreed upon La illaha Illallaah.
    7. That the elite from the creation (who are the most complete from creation in the matter of character and intellect) are the Messengers, The Prophets and the Scholars, they all bore witness to La Illaha Illallaah
    8. That which Allaah has established from the proofs and evidences in His creation which indicates His tawheed.

28.    The levels of certainty are:
    1. Knowledge of certainty (Ilm ul Yaqeen)
    2. Sight of certainty (Iyn ul Yaqeen)
    3. Taste of certainty (or Truth of certainty, Haqq ul Yaqeen)

29.    The proofs for the levels of certainty are:
    1. Knowledge of certainty (Takathur:5)
    2. Sight of certainty (Takathur:7)
    3. Taste or Truth of certainty (Waqi’ah:95)

30.    The 4 ways a Muslim can apostate from Islaam are:

    1. A Creed or belief that one holds which will invalidate one’s faith.
    2. A Statement that on makes with his tongue.
    3. An Action which is done that can cause a Muslim to apostate.
    4. The matter of doubt.

31.    An example for #1 is: If a person was to believe after believing that none has the right to be worshipped besides Allaah, that someone along with Allaah created along with Allaah.
    An example for #2 is: If a person curses Allaah, or curses the Messenger of Allaah.
    An example for #3 is: If a person supplicates to the dead or do something foul to the Qur’an.
    An example for #4 is: Someone having doubt on whether the Prophet Muhammad (SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam) is the last Messenger or not after believing that he is.

32.    The meaning of Shirk (best mentioned by the Ulema) is making other than Allaah equal with Allaah in those matters which are specifically for Allaah.

33.    There are two categories of Shirk (that we covered in this class)

34.    The differences between the categories is that the major shirk (Akbar) expels the person from the fold of al-Islam whereas the minor shirk (Asghar) does not. The major shirk invalidates all of the person’s actions, even the actions done sincerely for Allaah (Subhana wa at ala) incorrectly whereas the minor shirk only invalidates the action that is present. Also, the one who dies upon major shirk will be punished in the hellfire forever, whereas (according to some of the Ulema) the one who dies upon minor shirk will enter into the hellfire, but they will eventually come out and Allaah knows best.

35.    The two categories of Nifaaq are:
    1. Hypocrisy of Creed  (Nifaaqul It‘ikhadi, which is the greater form)
    2. Hypocrisy of Action (Nifaaqul Amali, which is the lesser form)

36.    The difference between the two categories of Nifaaq are that in Nifaaqul It’ikhadi (major) this person in reality is a disbeliever with Allah (Subhana wa at ala) and this person will be in the lowest depths of the hellfire if they die upon it and Nifaaqul Amali (minor or lesser) does not exit an individual from the fold of Islam but can lead a person to the greater form of hypocrisy.

37.    Nifaaq appeared amongst this ummah after the hijrah of The Prophet (SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam) from Mecca to Medina after Badr (as mentioned by the Ulema).

38.    No. This Ummah is not the first to experience nifaaq rather nifaaq was present amongst the previous nations. The proof for this is in Qur’an (66:10) regarding the wife of Nuh and the wife of Lut where Allaah states: “Allaah sets forth an example for those who disbelieve: the wife of Nuh and the wife of Lut. They were under two of our righteous slaves, but they both betrayed them (their husbands by rejecting their doctrine). So they (Nuh and Lut) availed them (their respective wives) not against Allaah and it was said: “Enter the Fire along with those who enter!””
We covered that Shaykhul Islam Ibn Taymiyyah (rahimhuallaah) covered a very important point  that the betrayal was not in the wives being in beds with other men rather the betrayal was in the religion (deen) by outwardly displaying that they were with their husbands upon the same deen but in reality they were with their people upon kuffir (disbelief). And that which establishes this is that which Allaah (subhana wa at ala) mentioned in (51:35-36): (35) “So We brought out from therein the believers.” (36) “But We found not there any house of the Muslims except one [Lut and his two daughters].”
Shaykhul Islam Ibn Taymiyyah (rahimhuallaah) mentioned that when Allaah (Subhana wa at ala) describes a house, he describes it as a Muslim home, but when it came to Him mentioning those who were saved, only the believers were saved. And that indicates that the wife of Lut outwardly displayed to be a Muslim, so therefore the house is a Muslim home, but when it came to those who were saved, she was not saved because she was not a believer. Showing that she outwardly displayed Islam but in her heart there was kuffir (disbelief) which is greater form of hypocrisy and Allaah knows best.

39.    The five characteristics of  Nifaaq are:
    1. Whenever he speaks, he tells lies
    2. Whenever he promises, he always breaks it (his promise)
    3. If trusted, he proves to be dishonest.
    4. Whenever he quarrels, he behaves in a very evil, insulting manner.
    5. Whenever he makes a covenant, he proves himself treacherous.

40.    The categories of people are(3):
    1. The Believer
    2. The Disbeliever
    3. The Hypocrites

41.    The principle that we covered regarding the affair of the heart is that the affairs of the heart are left to Allaah (Subhana wa at ala) and no one knows them. Even if the out ward strongly indicates something, it is to left to Allaah alone.

42.     The areas where Sidq (truthfulness) is supposed to be in the life of a Muslim is in our speech, actions and most importantly our creed.


43.    When you look at the condition of Ikhlaas, it negates shirk. So when one says La Illaha IllAllaah, he has to say this for the sake of Allaah (Subhana wa at ala). When you look at the condition of Sidq, it negates the lie, meaning from the tongue the person is saying the truth (being truthful in the statement of La Illaha IllAllaah). So Ikhlaas negates Shirk and Sidq negates the lie.

44.    Prior to the Hijrah of The Prophet (SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam) from Mecca to Medina, the Muslims were in a state of weakness and being oppressed. There was no worldly gain for one to obtained in being a Muslim in Mecca. So the Scholars mentioned that those who believed (in Mecca) were truly believers because there was no dunya for one to obtain because the Muslims were in a state of weakness.

45.    The 2 Categories of the miracles of the Prophet (mentioned by Shaykhul Islam Ibn Taymiyyah) are:
    1. El Ayahtus Ihsiya (Tangible)
    2. El Ayahtu Akhaliyah (Intellectual)

 46.    The examples for the “Tangible miracles” of The Prophet are (3):
    1. The miracles that Allaah cause to take place by The Prophet’s hands, outside of his physical being.
    2. That which was witnessed by his physical being and image which was an indication of his prophet hood (the seal of prophet hood)
    3. That which is in The Prophet’s characteristics like truthfulness, trustworthiness and the likes.
    The examples for the “Intellectual signs (miracles) of The Prophet are (6):
    1. He’s from a tribe and not the people of knowledge
    2. 40 years of age passed that he didn’t inform the people of his prophet hood.
    3. His patience and forbearance in conveying the message.
    4. All of The Prophet’s supplications were answered.
    5. The glad tidings of his coming came are in previous scriptures.
    6. He conveyed information about the unseen which testifies his prophet hood as this information could have only come from Allah (subhana wa at ala).

47.    From what we’ve covered, the differences between a test and a punishment depends on the individual who is experiencing the calamity or the affair. Allaah (Subhana wa at ala) put test upon the people to raise their level and a punishment is sent down because of that which the people indulged in with disobedience to Allaah.

48.    From the statement of Shaykh Saalih Ali Shaykh he mentioned that in general it is not permissible for one to say that a Muslim is being punished because it is not known what the case is of this Muslim.

49.    One can determine whether their trial is actually a punishment by if they are people who oppose the commandments of Allaah. If they are upon obedience or disobedience to Allaah (Subhana wa at ala). If the person is obedient to the commandments of Allaah, then the calamity is a test. If the person is upon disobedience to Allaah, then the person can consider that which has befallen him/her as a punishment.

50.    The ones most severely tested by Allaah are The Prophets and Messengers. Then after them are The Righteous, then those who are like them and those who are like them.

If there are any mistakes that I have made in relaying these answers in text form please forgive me.

These classes by our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefah are on Paltalk (religion>Islam>What is Islam1) on Wednesdays and Sundays @ 9pm est

May Allaah grant us all tawfeeq in learning this beautiful deen ul Islam and to implement that which we learn, Ameen.

The Test Answers for the class series: Understanding "Laa Ilaaha Illallaah" (1-25)

* Note: The test answers are based on that which we’ve covered in this class series.
    

1.    The title of this series is “Understanding La Illaha Illallaah”.

2.    It is important to understand La Illaha IllAllaah correctly for various reasons. Amongst those reasons are because this is the most important aspect in the life of a Muslim, one cannot properly worship Allaah without understanding La Illaha IllAllaah correctly as it is the first obligation upon the people. La Illaha IllAllaah is the key to Paradise.

3.    The statement of Shaykhul Islam Ibn Qayyim al- Jawziyyah that La Illaha IllAllaah is the first of the affair and that last of it is because the way one enters into the fold of Islam is by way of the statement of La Illaha IllAllaah, so that is the first of the affair. It is the last of the affair because the way that a Muslim should leave this earth is having his/her statement to be La Illaha IllAllaah. The Messenger of Allah (SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam) said, “Whoevers last statement at the time of death is La Illaha IllAllaah enters into the Paradise.”

4.    The proof of Allaah sending all the Messengers to call their people to La Illaha IllAllaah is in Qur’an (one of the main text as a proof for this) is in 16:36 “And verily, We have sent among every Ummah (nation) a Messenger (proclaiming): “Worship Allaah alone, and avoid taghut (all false deities)…”
Also as an establishment of this point is in 21:25 where Allah (Subhanna wa at ala) mentions: “And We did not send any Messenger before you (O Muhammad SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam) but We revealed to him (saying): La Ilaha Illa Ana (None has the right to be worshipped but I (Allaah), so worship Me (Alone and none else).”
And these two proofs are specific to the question.

5.    The other names that La Illaha IllAllaah are the Kalaima at Tawheed (The statement of  Tawheed) because in this statement “La Illaha IllAllaah“ is where you find the establishment of the Oneness of Allah (Subhanahu wa at ala) in His Lordship, Kalaima Ikhlaas (The statement of sincerity) because in this statement it establishes that all worship is for Allaah (Subhanahu wa at ala). Also the term “The Shahadah” is mentioned because the people are called to bear witness to it. Coming from the statement of The Messenger (SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam) when he sent Muadh to Yemen to call the people of the book to al-Islam he mentioned call them to testify “Ashadu an la ilaha illAllaah” to be testified that none has the right to be worshipped except for Allaah.

6.    There are two pillars to La Illaha IllAllaah

7.    The 2 pillars to Laa Illaaha Illallaah are negation and affirmation

8.    The meaning of negation as a pillar of La Illaaha Illallaah means to negate anything having the right be worshipped except Allaah and the meaning of affirmation as a pillar of La Illaaha Illallaah is to affirm that Allaah is singled out in all worship alone.

9.    The principle that we covered to be extracted is “At Takliyah before At Tahleeyah” meaning there must be the removal before beautification.  Shirk must be removed before one beautifies him/herself with Tawheed.

10.    The proof for this principle is in Qur’an (2:256) where Allah (Subhanahu wa at ala) mentions, “There is no compulsion in the religion. Verily, The right path has to become distinct from the wrong path. So whoever disbelieves in the taghut (all false deities) and believes in Allaah has grabbed hold to the firm handhold, which doesn’t break. And Allaah is All-Hearing and All-Knowing.” In the area of the statement “…Whoever disbelieves in the taghut…” this is the negation (at Takliyah, the removal of shirk) and “…believes in Allaah…” is the affirmation (at Tahleeyah, the beautification).

11.    To say La illaha Illallaah means “There’s no god but Allaah” is incorrect and the proof is in Qur’an (31:25) where Allaah states, “If you were to ask them, “Who has created the heavens and the earth?”, they will say : “Allaah.” Allaah is addressing the Prophet Muhammad (SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam) that if he were to ask the polytheists this. This verse shows that the polytheists believed that Allah (Subhanahu wa at ala) is The Creator. Although that they believed that Allaah is The Creator, this did not enter them into the fold of al-Islam. So to say “There’s no Creator except for Allaah” would mean that the polytheists were believers cause they believed this. Amongst the proof is in (23:84-85) , where Allaah states, (:84)“Say: “Whose is the earth and whoever is therein? If you know!” (:85) “They will say: It is Allaah’s!” Say: “Will you not them remember?” And also in (12:106) where Allaah mentions: “And most of them do not believe in Allaah except that they are polytheists.” Meaning they believe that Allaah is The Creator however they associate partners with Him.

12.    The translated meaning: “There’s no god but Allaah” is incorrect from two angles.
The Scholars mentioned that if one was to say this then that would mean that nothing else is worshipped other than Allaah and other things are worshipped besides Allah. Allaah describes this in Qur’an (11:101), “We did not wrong them, but they have wronged themselves, so their gods that they called on besides Allaah did not benefit them in any way when the commandment of your Lord came, nor did they increase them in anything except destruction.” There are other gods, however the presence of these other gods are false gods, false deities. And the second angle is that a god is worshipped and to say that there is no god but Allaah would mean that everything that is worshipped is Allaah.

13.    The correct translation of Laa Illaaha Illallaah is that There is nothing or noone who has the right to be worshipped except for Allaah.

14.    The 8 conditions of Laa Illaaha Illallaah are:
    1. Al Ilm (knowledge) which negates ignorance
    2. Al Yaqeen (certainty) which negates doubt
    3. Al Ikhlaas (sincerity) which negates polytheism
    4. Al Sidq (truthfulness) which negates lying and hypocrisy
    5. Al Mahabbah (love) which negates hatred
    6. Al Inqiyad (the submission or surrender) which negates abandonment
    7. Al Qubool (acceptance) which negates rejection
    8. Al Kufr bi taghut -the disbelief of the false deities

15.    The proofs for the first condition (Al Ilm, knowledge) are in Qur’an (47:19), (43:86) and in Sahih Muslim #26

16.    The proofs for the second condition (Al Yaqeen, certainty) are in Qur’an (49:15), (9:45) ,  (#3372 of Sahih Al Bukhari and #31 of Sahih Muslim) and #29 of Sahih Muslim.

17.    The proofs for the third condition (Al Ikhlaas, sincerity) are in Qur’an (39:3), (98:5),  in (Sahih Muslim #33 and Sahih Al Bukhari #425) and Sahih Al Bukhari #99

18.    The proofs for the forth condition (Al Sidq, Truthfulness) is in Qur’an (2:8-10),
(29:1-3),in Sahih Muslim #32 and in Sahih Al Bukhari #128

19.    The conditions for ibaadah to be accepted are 3 and are extracted from (18:10):

“Say (O Muhammad SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam): “I am only a man like you. It has been revealed to me that you Ilah (God) is One Ilah (Allaah). So whoever hopes for the Meeting with his Lord, let him work righteousness and associate none as a partner in worship of his Lord.”

    1. Islam (as a condition is extracted from,“..Whoever hopes for the Meeting with his Lord…”)
    2. Ikhlas (as a condition is extracted from, “…associate none as a partner in the worship of his Lord.”)
    3. It’ibaah (as a condition is extracted from, “…let him work righteous actions..”)

20.    The Prophet (SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam) advised Muadh not to convey the glad tidings of that whoever said La Illaha IllAllaah truthfully from his/her heart, the hellfire will be prohibited from them. Muadh mentioned “Should I not inform the people?” The Prophet (SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam) mentioned “Do not inform them for they will depend upon this alone.” The principle (that we covered) is the repelling of the harm (repelling the people depending on that statement alone and leaving off actions) is giving precedence to bringing about the good (the people being given the glad tidings).

21.    The Prophet (SalAllaahu alaihe wa sallam) said: “Whoever concealed knowledge, Allaah will make him wear a bridle of fire upon his face on the Day of Judgment .”

22.    The Ulema covered that it is permissible to conceal knowledge for the purpose of repelling  a greater harm.

23.    The proof from the Sunnah which establishes that ignorance is blameworthy is in found in the Sunan of Abu Dawood that verily the cure for the ignorance is the question.

24.    Imaam Al-Bukhari mentioned in his book: “Chapter, knowledge before the statement and the action.”

25.    This statement is to be found in The Book of Knowledge.

….In shaa Allaah I will post the last 25 answers at another time. May Allaah reward you for your patience, Ameen.

If there are any mistakes that I have made in relaying these answers in text form please forgive me.

These classes by our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefah are on Paltalk (religion>Islam>What is Islam1) on Wednesdays and Sundays @ 9pm est

May Allaah preserve, protect and bless our noble brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefah for giving us his time in giving these most beneficial classes and May Allaah allow us to benefit and implement that which we learn from them seeking the pleasure of Allaah, Ameen.

The Test Questions for the class series: Understanding "Laa Ilaaha Illallaah"

50 Test Questions for the class series: Understanding"Laa Ilaaha Illallaah"

1. What is the title of this series?

2. Why is it important to understand Laa Ilaaha Illallaah correctly?

3. Shaykhul-Islaam Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah stated that: "Laa Ilaaha Illallaah is the first of the affair and the last of it”, explain what he meant.

4. Laa Ilaaha Illallaah is so significant that Allaah sent all of the Messengers to call their people to it, give the proof for this point.

5. What are the other names Laa Ilaaha Illallaah is known by?

6. How many pillars are there to Laa Ilaaha Illallaah?

7. What are the pillars for Laa Ilaaha Illallaah?

8. What is the meaning of each pillar.

9. What principle can be extracted from the pillars?

10. Give the proof for this principle.

11. Some say the meaning of Laa Ilaaha Illallaah is: "There's no creator but Allaah". This is incorrect, provide the proof why.

12. The translated meaning: "There's no god but Allaah" is incorrect from two angles, what are they?

13. What is the correct translated meaning of Laa Ilaaha Illallaah?

14. What are the eight conditions of Laa Ilaaha Illallaah. What are they and what do they negate?
[Please note: From the eight conditions, we covered proofs and evidences for four of them.]

15. What are the proofs for the first condition?

16. What are the proofs for the second condition?

17. What are the proofs for the third condition?

18. What are the proofs for the fourth condition?

19. What are the conditions for Ibaadah to be accepted?

20. The prophet (sallahu alayhi wa salam) advised Muadh not to convey the glad tidings, what principle can be extracted from this statement?

21. What is the punishment for those who conceal knowledge?

22. Is there ever a case when you can conceal knowledge if so, when and provide the proof.

23. What is the proof from the sunnah which establishes that ignorance is blameworthy?

24. What Scholar of the past mentioned in his book: "Chapter, Knowledge before the statement and the action"?

25. Where is this statement to be found?

26. What is the proof for this statement?

27. What are the eight points which lead to the knowledge Laa Ilaaha Illallaah.?

28. What are the levels of certainty?

29. What are the proofs for these levels?

30. What are the four ways a Muslim can apostate from Islaam?

31. Give an example for each.

32. What is the meaning of Shirk?

33. How many categories of Shirk are there?

34. Name some of the differences between the categories.

35. What are the two categories of Nifaaq?

36. What is the difference between the two categories of hypocrisy?

37. When did Nifaaq first appear amongst this Ummah?

38. Is this Ummah the first to experience Nifaaq? Provide the proof for your answer.

39. What are the five characteristics of Nifaaq?

40. What are the categories of people?

41. What is the principle concerning the affairs of the heart?

42. What are the areas where Sidq is supposed to be in the life of the Muslim?

43. What is the difference between Sidq and Ikhlaas?

44. Why do the scholars say whoever was a believer prior to the Hijrah was truly a believer?

45. What are the two categories of the miracles of the prophet?

46. Provide examples for each.

47. What is the difference between a test and a punishment?

48. Is it permissible to say that a Muslim is being punished by Allah, why or why not?

49. How can one determine if their trial is actually a punishment?

50. Who from amongst the people are most severely tested?

These classes by our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefa are on Paltalk (religion>Islam>What is Islam1) on Wednesdays and Sundays @ 9pm est
For previous class recordings please visit :   

http://whatisislam1.multiply.com

*For registered participants, email your answers to whatisislam1@gmail.com

May Allaah grant us with tawfeeq in understanding this beautiful deen of Islam, Ameen.

What is heard in class about.....Categories of The Sunnah

As Salaamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakaatuhu

In class, our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefa mentioned that the Sunnah is divided into 5 categories which are:

1. The Sunnah connected to Creed (Aqeedah), What The Prophet (SalAllaahu alayhe wa  sallam) believed.

2. The verbal Sunnah, What The Prophet (SalAllaahu alayhe wa sallam) said and stated.

3. The physical Sunnah, The Prophet’s (SalAllaahu alayhe wa sallam) actions.

4. The approved Sunnah, The things The Prophet (SalAllaahu alayhe wa sallam) approved of by way of silence.

5. The Sunnah of abandonment, What The Prophet (SalAllaahu alayhe wa sallam) abandoned (left off doing for the pleasure of Allaah).

These classes by our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefa are on Paltalk (religion>Islam>What is Islam1) on Wednesdays and Sundays @ 9pm est
For previous class recordings please visit :    http://whatisislam1.multiply.com

What is heard in class about....."Apostasy and Hypocrisy"

As Salaamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakaatuhu

AREAS OF APOSTASY

Regarding the areas of apostasy , our brother  (Abu Yusuf Khaleefa) said that the Scholars of Islam has mentioned that apostasy from faith can take place from one of four areas:

1. It could be a CREED or a belief that one holds which will invalidate one’s faith that cause the person to  become an apostate.

EXAMPLE:

If a person was to believe after believing that none has the right to be worshipped except for Allaah, that someone along with Allaah created along with Allaah. Or that someone other than Allaah is entitled to supplication. This will invalidate a person’s faith, even if they did not perform the action.

Another example, we know that the Muslim (man and woman) are to pray 5 times a day, which is known by way of necessity amongst the Muslims, an obligation. Now after a person becomes Muslim and then they believe that the 5 prayers are not obligatory after having knowledge, this will invalidate their Islam, because to believe that the 5 prayers are not an obligation on us is denial of that which is in the Qur’an and of the Sunnah of our Prophet Muhammad SalAllaahu Alayhe wa sallam.

2. It could be a STATEMENT that one makes with his tongue that will cause a person to apostate.

EXAMPLE:

Is that a person curses Allaah or curses the Messenger of Allaah, this will invalidate one’s faith, making mockery of the religion, making mockery of something that is legislated. Even though the person could be playing around. It can not make mockery of the legislation of Allaah’s rules and regulations.

3. It could be an ACTION that is done which can cause the person to apostate.

EXAMPLE:

That a person prostrates to an idol, or a person supplicates to the dead, calling upon the dead, desecrating (doing something foul) to the Qur’an…these actions will invalidate a person’s faith.

4. The matter of DOUBT

EXAMPLE:

Someone having doubt whether the Prophet Muhammad SalAllaahu alayhe wa sallam is the last Messenger or not after believing that he is and later expressing to be unsure whether he is the last Messenger or not. This doubt will invalidate a person’s faith.

With regarding the one who wants to enter into the fold of Islam, if the person has doubt regarding the statement that none has the right to be worshipped except for Allaah, then they have not entered into the fold. As long as the doubt is present, this will prevent them from truly entering into the fold. The doubt has to be removed. The person entering when saying “La illaha illaAllaah”, they have to make this statement with surety.

Allaah,  the Exalted, states in Sura Al-Hujarat (49:15):

    “Only those are the believers who have believed in Allaah and His Messenger, and afterward doubt not but strive with their wealth and their lives for the Cause of Allaah. Those are the ones who are truthful.”
This is a proof that doubt invalidates one’s faith. When carefully examined, in this verse, Allaah Subhana wa at ala has made it a condition for the truthfulness of their faith or the faith of those who claim belief in Him and His Messenger, is that they do not have doubt.

Doubt is from the characteristics of the hypocrites.

DESCRIPTION OF HYPOCRISY

Allaah, The Exalted, states in Sura Al-Baqarah (2:8-10):

 “And of mankind, there are some (hypocrites) who say, ‘We believe in Allaah and the Last   Day’ while in fact they believe not.
 They (think to) deceive Allaah and those who believe, while they only deceive themselves and perceive it not!
 In their hearts is a disease (of doubt and hypocrisy) and Allaah has increased their disease.
 A painful torment is theirs because they used to tell lies.”

Allaah reveals some of the traits of the hypocrites of them outwardly displaying good and hiding evil within their hearts. They seek to deceive Allaah by saying one thing with their tongues but hiding another thing within their heart. And they seek to deceive the believers however they only deceive themselves. Allaah knows that what they say with their tongues is not in their hearts and He has exposed the characteristics of the hypocrites to the believers so that they can be aware of them. However, hypocrites are in a state of heedlessness, so their harm returns back to them and are not able to harm Allaah nor the believers who truly believe in Allaah.

Allaah says that in their hearts is a sickness and mentioned by Shaykh Abdur Rahman Ibn Naa’sir As Saa’dee in his tafsir of the Qur’an…
That which is intended by the sickness is sickness of doubt, the conjecture, and the hypocrisy and that is because the heart is subject to two types of sicknesses which removes it from it’s well-being and it’s uprightness:
1. The sickness of false doubts:
    The matter of disbelief in the hypocrisy, the doubt, matters of innovation in the religion are    all sicknesses of doubts.

2. The sickness of evil desires:
    Illegal sexual intercourse (whether fornication or adultery), homosexuality, the love of indecency, acts of disobedience and the committing of these acts are all from the sickness of evil desires.

So in their hearts there is the sickness of doubt and hypocrisy, so Allaah increases them in their sickness. This is an indication that the reward for evil is evil itself. So that which comes as a result of that evil is even more evil if the person doesn’t repent.

So when a person wants to enter into the fold of Islam, it is a must that the person has certainty about the statement of La illaha illaAllaah (That none has the right to be worshipped except for Allaah).

These classes by our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefa are on Paltalk (religion>Islam>What is Islam1) on Wednesdays and Sundays @ 9pm est
For previous class recordings please visit : http://whatisislam1.multiply.com

What is heard in class about....."Having Knowledge of La illaha illaAllaah"

As Salaamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakaatuhu

In the “Understanding La illaha illaAllaah” class, our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefa gave us 8 points that will help an individual to have knowledge of La illaha illaAllaah…..

1. Contemplating over the Names and Attributes of Allaah Subhana wa at ala along with His actions which are an indication of His completeness and magnificence.

2. Having the knowledge that Allaah Subhana wa at ala is singled out with the matter of creation in the arranging of the affairs.

3.  Having knowledge that Allaah alone is the one who bestows the outward and inward bounties upon His creation, His servants. Bounties which are connected to one’s religious life and one’s worldly life. As when one realizes the fact that he has been given a bounty from the Creator then this would necessitate the heart being connected to the Creator.

4. That which we hear of and that which we see from the reward of those who are the allies of the Creator who establish monotheism in their life, who have received support and aid from the Creator AND that which we see from the punishment of the enemies of the Creator from the polytheists. All of this calls to the knowledge that He alone is to be worshipped.

5. Having knowledge of the characteristics of the idols and the equals which have been set up along with the Creator as partners to be worshipped. And that which has been taken as a deity besides the Creator and come to know that that which is worshipped besides the Creator is deficient and not owning any harm or benefit for the one who worships them nor controlling the matter of life or death nor resurrection and other than that.

6. That all of the books sent by the Creator to the messengers were in agreement that none has the right to be worshipped except for the Creator.

7. That the elite of mankind (the best of mankind) who are the most complete of creation in the matter of character, intellect, sound judgment and being upon that which is correct in knowledge….and they are the messengers, the prophets and the scholars. All of them have bore witness that none has the right to be worshipped except for the Creator. So being that these are the forefront of creation, and this is what they were all upon, then this will help us in knowing that none has the right to be worshipped but Allaah alone without partners.

8. That which Allaah has established from the evidences which are an indication of Him being singled out in all acts of worship, which is monotheism. These signs or evidences can be Universal signs or Legislative signs. The Universal signs are that which we find in creation. Looking at ourselves, the Sun, the Moon, the Trees and other matters of creation. When we examine and ponder over creation, it establishes the fact that there is only one Creator and that one Creator is to be the one who is deserving of all acts of worship who has no partners. From the legislative signs, they are the ayah of the Qur’an and the Qur’an is the speech of Allaah and nothing from Allaah Subhana wa at ala is created.
If one say that the Qur’an is created, then they are saying that Allaah Himself is created and we know that this is from the forced ideologies that have been entered upon some individuals from the past from amongst the Muslims who fell into this tremendous error of saying that the Qur’an was created. And this matter was refuted by the scholars of Islam of the past with proofs and evidences from the Qur’an itself and from the statements of the Prophet Muhammad SalAllaahu alayhe wa sallam.

May we use these points to help aid us to have knowledge of  La illaha illaAllaah.

What is heard in class about....."Patience in the matter of Learning this Deen"

As Salaamu alaikum wa rahmatullahi wa barakaatuhu

In the “Understanding La illaha illaAllaah” class, our brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefa mentioned ..…

 “The matter of knowledge is not something that one will attain all at once. As mentioned by Imam Ibn ul Shi’haab (May Allaah have mercy on him), ‘Whoever desires to attain all of the knowledge at one time, then this knowledge will leave him all at one time. However the knowledge should be attained in portions’.

So when a person is traversing on the path of learning the deen of Islam, removing ignorance from himself, this will take some time. It’s not something a person is going to attain overnight. As the scholars of al-Islam, they’ve exerted themselves many years in the path of studying this deen of al-Islam. And we see when Allaah Subhana wa at ala revealed the Qur’an to The Prophet SalAllaahu alayhe wa sallam, He didn’t reveal it to him all at once. Rather, the Qur’an came down to The Prophet SalAllaahu alayhe wa sallam in stages. Allaah Subhana wa at ala mentioned the wisdom of this knowledge coming down in stages, in Sura Furqan (25:32), where Allaah said,

    ‘And those who disbelieve they say, ‘Why is not the Qur’an revealed to him all at once?’ And Allaah said, ‘Thus (it is sent down in parts), that We may strengthen your hearts thereby. And We have revealed it to you gradually, in stages.’

So one of the wisdoms in the Qur’an coming down in stages and not all at once was for the purpose of establishing the heart of The Prophet SalAllaahu alayhe wa sallam. The matter of learning this deen is learned in stages just as revealed to The Prophet SalAllaahu alayhe wa sallam.”

May Allaah Subhana wa at ala bless us with patience in learning and understanding of this beautiful deen, Ameen.

What is heard in class about....."Going to the Ulema"

As Salaamu alaikum wa rahmatullaahi wa barakaatuhu

I have been participating in a class called “Understanding La illaha illaAllaah” given on Paltalk By our Brother Abu Yusuf Khaleefa.

There is a Q and A session that proceed after the class and in one session  he gave some points that are very helpful for us to be aware of in seeking knowledge in sha ‘allaah……

GOING TO THE ULEMA

When asked what (besides arrogance) could prevent someone from going to the people of knowledge , our brother gave some examples and points of what could cause this…..

*Not knowing who the people of knowledge are

“A person may direct his or her affairs to those who are not suitable to handle, bring about or give
solutions to these affairs. Instead of the person going to the scholars of Islam (of the Sunnah), this person     goes to the people of innovation or the people of ignorance.”

*An issue of self admiration (which is in connection to arrogance)

“The Prophet SalAllaahu alayhe wa sallam described arrogance as rejecting the truth and looking down upon the people. This self admiration is that the person becomes amazed with themselves of the knowledge that they’ve acquired, so they feel that they don’t need the ulema, like they don’t need the scholars. This is where a lot of individuals have gone wrong and deviated after being upon the sunnah….being amazed of the level that he or she has attained of knowledge. Their thoughts of the ulema is ‘they are men and we are men, they can have their opinions and we can have our opinions’, where as before the individual was once telling the people to respect the scholars and go to the scholars. But after Allaah Subhana wa at ala allowed them to acquire the knowledge that he or she has acquired, they become self amazed and this is a test. In reality, the more one learns, the more one should humble themselves. Being in this situation leads to destruction. This is not benefiting the individual so one should be mindful of these matters.

*Shyness

“The person may be too shy to go to the scholars and as one of the Salaf mentioned that being shy when it comes to seeking knowledge is not shyness but in reality it is stupidity. And being shy when it comes to defending ones family and standing up for what’s right is not shyness but in reality it is cowardice.

*Having hatred and jealousy for the ulema

“ As a result of jealousy and hatred, it prevents one from going to the ulema as they feel that they should be the ones who have that knowledge and that they should be the ones in that position and the likes. And because of that they don’t go to them. This is where the person’s downfall is, believing himself or herself to be independent from the people of knowledge. The people of knowledge depend on the people of knowledge! You find the scholars going back to the works of other scholars and scholars calling other scholars for affairs. So who are we not to refer our affairs back to the ulema?”….



In sha ‘allaah these points are helpful and beneficial for you as they are for me and for us to keep in mind when seeking knowledge. May Allaah reward us for our efforts in pleasing Him, Ameen.

If you would like to attend these classes, they are given on Paltalk,  Islam section,  in the “What is Islam1” room on Wednesdays and Sundays @ 9pm.

JazakAllaahu khairan, Ameen.