by Imam Ali Ibn Abi al `Izz al Hanafi
(False) security and despair are ways leading out of the folds of the community of Muslims. The right attitude for the people of the Qiblah lies between the two.
That is to say, a slave should remain between fear and hope. For, the right and the approved kind of fear is that which acts as a barrier between the slave and the things forbidden by Allah. But, if fear is excessive, then the possibility is that the man will fall into despair and pessimism.
On the other hand the approved state of optimism is of a man who does good in the light of the Shari’ah and is hopeful of being rewarded for it. Or, conversely, if a man committed a sin, he repents sincerely, and is hopeful of being forgiven. Allah (subhanahu wa ta’aala) said: “Verily, those who believed, and those who migrated and fought in the way of Allah, it is they who are hopeful of Allah’s mercy. And Allah is very Forgiving, very Merciful.” (Al-Baqarah, 218)
In contrast, if a man indulges in sins and excesses, but is hopeful that he would be forgiven without doing anything good, then, this is self-deception, mere illusion and false hope. Abu ‘All Rowzbari has said, “Fear and hope are like the two wings of a bird. If they are well balanced, the flight will be well balanced. However, if the Left one is stunted, the Right would also be stunted. And, to be sure, if the two are lost, the bird will soon be in the throes of death.”
Allah has praised the people of hope and fear in the following verse: ‘Is one who worships devotedly during the night, prostrating himself or standing, fearing the Hereafter, and hoping for the mercy of his Lord (is equal to him who doesn’t do these things)?’ (Al Zumar, 9)
Hope then also demands fear. If that was not the case, one would be in a state of false security. Conversely, fear demands hope. Without that it would be despair.
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Monday, August 31, 2009
Ramadan Hadith- Day 10
Abu Salamah bin 'Abdul-Rahman reported that he asked 'A'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) about the night Prayer (Taraweeh) of the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) during the month of Ramadan. She said: The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) did not observe – either in Ramadan or in any other month more than eleven rak'ahs (units of prayer) of the night Prayer (Taraweeh). He in the first instance observed four rak'ahs. Ask not about their excellence and their length (i.e. these were matchless in perfection and length). He again observed four rak'ahs, and ask not about their excellence and length. He would then observe three rak'ahs (of the Witr Prayer). 'A'ishah again reported: I asked: Messenger of Allah, do you sleep before observing the Witr Prayer? He said: O 'A'ishah, my eyes sleep but my heart does not. (Muslim)
Sunday, August 30, 2009
Sharh As-Siyaam Wa Al-Qiyaam- Part 2
Khutbah by Shaykh Abdullah Azzaam (may Allah have mercy on him)
And it was reported from some of the Tabi’in, and those who came after them, in regards to their Qur’an and prayer, that some of them would complete reciting the Qur’an sixty times in Ramadan, and this was specifically narrated in regards to al-Imam ash-Shafi’i; he used to complete it once during the day, and once during the night. Some of them would complete it once during the night and day, and others would complete it once every three days, until they reached the last ten days, in which they would seclude themselves in the mosque, completing it once a day.
And to complete the Qur’an in a day is easy, if we keep in mind that to recite the Qur’an slowly (tartil) takes about 24 hours, and a quicker recitation takes about ten hours. It is possible for the one who has memorized the Qur’an to complete one juz’ in 20 minutes, allowing him to complete all thirty ajzaa’ in ten hours. I was told by Abu al-Hasan an-Nadawi: “I saw my teachers, and some of them would not speak at all in Ramadan. Rather, they would only engage in worship; either Qur’an or prayer. If someone were to speak to them, they would count out their words, and calculate them by the minutes and seconds.”
So, Ramadan consists of fasting and prayer.
Because of this, the Salaf, such as al-Imam Malik, would seclude themselves until the time of giving a class, saying: “Verily, Ramadan is for praying and reciting the Qur’an.” Some of them would say: “Ramadan is praying, giving charity, and reciting the Qur’an.”
And Ramadan is the Ramadan of Jihad, so, I advise everyone of you to not fall short in a single day in Ramadan.
I was in Qatar, or the Emirates, and I was told: “The brothers in America called, asking if you could go spend the last ten nights with them.” I said: “Subhan Allah! I spend the last ten nights in America, and I leave Jalalabad, Qandahar, and Kabul erupting? The hour in these places is better than standing in prayer for sixty years, and I go and enter America, even if in Ramadan?” And because of this, for the duration of my stay here, especially in the last five years, I always loved to spend every Ramadan outside of Peshawar, and to not enter Peshawar unless it was necessary. I would spend it either in the training camp in Sada, Jadji, or any other place, so that it would be written for me as a Ramadan of ribat, and the Ramadan in the land of ribat is a thousand times better than Ramadan outside of the land of ribat, as the Prophet said: “Ribat for one day in the Path of Allah is better than a thousand days in any other place, even if one were to fast all day and pray all night.” [Reported by at-Tirmidhi and an-Nasa’i]
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
And it was reported from some of the Tabi’in, and those who came after them, in regards to their Qur’an and prayer, that some of them would complete reciting the Qur’an sixty times in Ramadan, and this was specifically narrated in regards to al-Imam ash-Shafi’i; he used to complete it once during the day, and once during the night. Some of them would complete it once during the night and day, and others would complete it once every three days, until they reached the last ten days, in which they would seclude themselves in the mosque, completing it once a day.
And to complete the Qur’an in a day is easy, if we keep in mind that to recite the Qur’an slowly (tartil) takes about 24 hours, and a quicker recitation takes about ten hours. It is possible for the one who has memorized the Qur’an to complete one juz’ in 20 minutes, allowing him to complete all thirty ajzaa’ in ten hours. I was told by Abu al-Hasan an-Nadawi: “I saw my teachers, and some of them would not speak at all in Ramadan. Rather, they would only engage in worship; either Qur’an or prayer. If someone were to speak to them, they would count out their words, and calculate them by the minutes and seconds.”
So, Ramadan consists of fasting and prayer.
Because of this, the Salaf, such as al-Imam Malik, would seclude themselves until the time of giving a class, saying: “Verily, Ramadan is for praying and reciting the Qur’an.” Some of them would say: “Ramadan is praying, giving charity, and reciting the Qur’an.”
And Ramadan is the Ramadan of Jihad, so, I advise everyone of you to not fall short in a single day in Ramadan.
I was in Qatar, or the Emirates, and I was told: “The brothers in America called, asking if you could go spend the last ten nights with them.” I said: “Subhan Allah! I spend the last ten nights in America, and I leave Jalalabad, Qandahar, and Kabul erupting? The hour in these places is better than standing in prayer for sixty years, and I go and enter America, even if in Ramadan?” And because of this, for the duration of my stay here, especially in the last five years, I always loved to spend every Ramadan outside of Peshawar, and to not enter Peshawar unless it was necessary. I would spend it either in the training camp in Sada, Jadji, or any other place, so that it would be written for me as a Ramadan of ribat, and the Ramadan in the land of ribat is a thousand times better than Ramadan outside of the land of ribat, as the Prophet said: “Ribat for one day in the Path of Allah is better than a thousand days in any other place, even if one were to fast all day and pray all night.” [Reported by at-Tirmidhi and an-Nasa’i]
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 9
Narrated Sahl (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet (may peace be upon him) said, There is a gate in Paradise called ArRaiyân, and those who observe Saum (fasts) will enter through it on the Day of Resurrection and none except them will enter through it. It will be said, `Where are those who used to observe Saum (fasts)?' They will get up, and none except them will enter through it. After their entry the gate will be closed and nobody will enter through it. (Al Bukhari)
Saturday, August 29, 2009
Ummah Films- Seasonal Muslims
More information on this can be found at http://ummahfilms.blogspot.com/2006/07/videoblog-7-seasonal-muslims.html
Wisdom Behind Fasting- Part 2
by Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-’Uthaimeen
From the wisdom behind fasting is that it is a means of attaining Taqwaa, as Allaah says: “O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, in order that you gain Taqwaa.” This is since a person who is fasting is commanded to do the obligatory duties and to avoid sinful acts.
The Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) said: “Whoever does not abandon false speech, acting upon that (false speech) and (acts of) ignorance (i.e. sins), then Allaah has no need of him abandoning his food and drink.” (Reported by Al-Bukhaaree)
So when a person is fasting, every time he desires to do a sinful act, he will remember that he is fasting and thus withhold himself from that.
This is why the Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) ordered the person who is fasting, when cursed at and abused, to say: “I am fasting”, cautioning him (the reviler) that a person fasting is commanded to refrain from cursing and reviling and reminding himself that he is fasting and cannot counter with cursing.
Source:
Majaalis Shahr Ramadaan pgs. 41-43
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
From the wisdom behind fasting is that it is a means of attaining Taqwaa, as Allaah says: “O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, in order that you gain Taqwaa.” This is since a person who is fasting is commanded to do the obligatory duties and to avoid sinful acts.
The Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) said: “Whoever does not abandon false speech, acting upon that (false speech) and (acts of) ignorance (i.e. sins), then Allaah has no need of him abandoning his food and drink.” (Reported by Al-Bukhaaree)
So when a person is fasting, every time he desires to do a sinful act, he will remember that he is fasting and thus withhold himself from that.
This is why the Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) ordered the person who is fasting, when cursed at and abused, to say: “I am fasting”, cautioning him (the reviler) that a person fasting is commanded to refrain from cursing and reviling and reminding himself that he is fasting and cannot counter with cursing.
Source:
Majaalis Shahr Ramadaan pgs. 41-43
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 8
Narrated Sahl bin Sa`d (may Allah be pleased with him): Allâh's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said, The people (Muslim Ummah) will remain on the right path as long as they hasten to break their fast. (Break the fast on time, without delay) (Al Bukhari)
Friday, August 28, 2009
Qadar
Imaam Ash-Shaafi’ee said: “Whatever You wish occurs, even if I do not wish it. And whatever I wish cannot occur, unless You will it. You created the servants upon your knowledge, so in terms of knowledge, there is the young and the old. This one You have favored, and this one You have forsaken, and this one You support, and that one You do not support. So from amongst them is the wretched and the fortunate, and from them is the repugnant and the good.”
Related in Manaaqibush-Shaafi’ee (1/42-413), and Sharh Usoolul-Itiqaad Ahlus-Sunnah wal- Jamaa’ah (2/702)
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Related in Manaaqibush-Shaafi’ee (1/42-413), and Sharh Usoolul-Itiqaad Ahlus-Sunnah wal- Jamaa’ah (2/702)
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 7
Narrated Abu Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him): Allah’s Apostle (may peace be upon him) said, Whoever prayed at night the whole month of Ramadhan out of sincere faith and hoping for a reward from Allah, then all his previous sins will be forgiven. (Bukhari)
Thursday, August 27, 2009
Sharh As-Siyaam Wa Al-Qiyaam- Part 1
Khutbah by Shaykh Abdullah Azzaam (may Allah have mercy on him)
“It is, as the Lord of Glory said, a fixed number of days. Rather, it is a fixed number of hours! The month of Ramadan is either 720 hours, or 696 hours, and every minute of it has a price and a value. The Salaf and the Companions - may Allah be pleased with them - used to await these days of Ramadan from the year to year, as it has been reported in a narration that the Companions used to say, when Rajab had arrived: “O Allah, assist us in worshipping You in Rajab and Sha’ban, and allow us to witness Ramadan.”
Because Ramadan is the annual occasion of the cleansing of the soul, spirit, and body, its effect on the human spirit and body is not that profound. The acts of worship of the soul are many, and as much as the body receives its share of pain during the course of its worship, it will receive its share of light. That is why Jihad is the uppermost peak of Islam; because it is the most painful and difficult of the acts of worship. Its reward is greater, its effect on the soul deeper, and its result in building the spirit and in ingraining Tawhid in it is great.
Therefore, there are acts of worship dealing with one’s wealth. However, its effect on the soul is usually less than the effect of an act of worship dealing with the body. So, Zakah has a deep effect on the soul, as it purifies it from covetousness. However, you cannot truly sympathize with the poor person unless you feel his pain, live as he lives, and starve as he starves. If you starve, then you feel your body becoming stronger and more durable. At that time, you become joyous that you were able to sacrifice something and purify yourself from covetousness.
Jihad is the same way: Jihad with one’s wealth does not purify one’s soul in the same way as Jihad with one’s self does. And because of this, Islam did not relieve any of the Companions of the obligation of Jihad with his self, no matter what his position in society, and no matter how good his reputation, such as in the case of ‘Uthman.
The Salaf - may Allah be Pleased with them - would calculate Ramadan by the minute. They were praying behind Ubayy bin Ka’b- and ‘Umar bin al-Khattab was praying Tarawih behind him - and they would require sticks to support themselves on as a result of his long standing in the prayer, and the Companions would say: “We fear that we will miss the suhur praying behind Ubayy, and we fear that the Fajr time will come, causing us to miss the Blessed Meal - they used to refer to suhur as the Blessed Meal - so, let our children rush to prepare the meal.”
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
“It is, as the Lord of Glory said, a fixed number of days. Rather, it is a fixed number of hours! The month of Ramadan is either 720 hours, or 696 hours, and every minute of it has a price and a value. The Salaf and the Companions - may Allah be pleased with them - used to await these days of Ramadan from the year to year, as it has been reported in a narration that the Companions used to say, when Rajab had arrived: “O Allah, assist us in worshipping You in Rajab and Sha’ban, and allow us to witness Ramadan.”
Because Ramadan is the annual occasion of the cleansing of the soul, spirit, and body, its effect on the human spirit and body is not that profound. The acts of worship of the soul are many, and as much as the body receives its share of pain during the course of its worship, it will receive its share of light. That is why Jihad is the uppermost peak of Islam; because it is the most painful and difficult of the acts of worship. Its reward is greater, its effect on the soul deeper, and its result in building the spirit and in ingraining Tawhid in it is great.
Therefore, there are acts of worship dealing with one’s wealth. However, its effect on the soul is usually less than the effect of an act of worship dealing with the body. So, Zakah has a deep effect on the soul, as it purifies it from covetousness. However, you cannot truly sympathize with the poor person unless you feel his pain, live as he lives, and starve as he starves. If you starve, then you feel your body becoming stronger and more durable. At that time, you become joyous that you were able to sacrifice something and purify yourself from covetousness.
Jihad is the same way: Jihad with one’s wealth does not purify one’s soul in the same way as Jihad with one’s self does. And because of this, Islam did not relieve any of the Companions of the obligation of Jihad with his self, no matter what his position in society, and no matter how good his reputation, such as in the case of ‘Uthman.
The Salaf - may Allah be Pleased with them - would calculate Ramadan by the minute. They were praying behind Ubayy bin Ka’b- and ‘Umar bin al-Khattab was praying Tarawih behind him - and they would require sticks to support themselves on as a result of his long standing in the prayer, and the Companions would say: “We fear that we will miss the suhur praying behind Ubayy, and we fear that the Fajr time will come, causing us to miss the Blessed Meal - they used to refer to suhur as the Blessed Meal - so, let our children rush to prepare the meal.”
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 6
Ibn 'Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) was the most generous of people in charity, but he was even more generous in the month of Ramadan. Angel Gabriel (peace be upon him) used to meet him every year during the month of Ramadan until it ended, so that Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) could recite the Qur'an to him; and when Gabriel met Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) he was more generous in giving charity than the blowing wind. (Muslim)
Wednesday, August 26, 2009
Piety
It was narrated that Sufyan ibn ‘Uyanah said: “With remembrance of the pious, mercy is bestowed.”
And from Imam Abu Hanifa, he said: “The stories of the scholars and al-Muhsineen (the good doers), is more beloved to me than increasing in the knowledge of fiqh, because it contains the understanding of the manners and etiquettes of this ummah (nation).
Source:
Jama’ bayn al-‘ilm wal fadl (1/117) and Farteeb al-Mudrak (1/56)
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
And from Imam Abu Hanifa, he said: “The stories of the scholars and al-Muhsineen (the good doers), is more beloved to me than increasing in the knowledge of fiqh, because it contains the understanding of the manners and etiquettes of this ummah (nation).
Source:
Jama’ bayn al-‘ilm wal fadl (1/117) and Farteeb al-Mudrak (1/56)
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 5
Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: Any servant of Allah who observes one day of Fast for Allah's sake, Allah would remove his face away from the Fire of Hell a distance equivalent to seventy years. (Muslim)
Tuesday, August 25, 2009
Ummah Films- Ramadan Reruns
More information on this can be found at http://ummahfilms.blogspot.com/2006/12/ramadan-reruns-new-ummah-films-video.html
The Doors of Success
Shaqeeq Ibn Ibraheem said: “The doors of success have been closed upon the creation because of six things: Their busying themselves with the blessings of Allah instead of thanking Allah for them; Their desire for knowledge while they abandon actions; The hastiness to sin and delaying repentance; The deception of having righteous companions and not taking them as examples; The turning away of the dunya from them while they chase it; The approach of the afterlife towards them while they turn away from it.”
Source:
Al Fawaai’d by Ibn Al Qayim: p. 161
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Source:
Al Fawaai’d by Ibn Al Qayim: p. 161
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 4
Narrated Abû Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet (may peace be upon him) said, Whoever does not give up telling lies (false statements) and acting on those lies, and evil actions etc., Allâh is not in need of his leaving his food and drink (i.e. Allâh will not accept his Saum (fasting)). (Bukhari)
Monday, August 24, 2009
Darkness and Its Lamps
Abu Bakr al-Siddiq [radiyAllahu`anhu] said: “Darkness is of five types and its lamps are five: Love of the dunya is a darkness and its lamp is God consciousness; Sins are a darkness and their lamp is repentance; The grave is a darkness and its lamp is: ‘There is no god but Allah, Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah’; the Hereafter is a darkness and its lamp is righteous actions; and the path is a darkness and its lamp is certitude.”
From “Ibn Hajars Preparation For The Day of Judgment”
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
From “Ibn Hajars Preparation For The Day of Judgment”
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 3
Abu Hurairah, (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: When there comes the month of Ramadan, the gates of Paradise are opened, and the gates of Hell are locked and the devils are chained. (Muslim)
Sunday, August 23, 2009
Wisdom Behind Fasting- Part 1
by Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-’Uthaimeen
From the wisdom of fasting is that: It is an act of worship done for Allaah, in which the ‘abd (servant) draws closer to His Lord by abandoning the things that he loves and desires, such as food, drink and sexual intercourse. So because of this, the truthfulness of his Faith and the completeness of his servitude to Allaah become apparent, as well as his love for Allaah and his longing for what Allaah has prepared for him (of good). This is since the one who fasts does not abandon something that is beloved to him except for that which is greater to him than it (which is Allaah). When the believer knows that Allaah’s contentmentl ies in the fasting- which is abandoning those desires that he naturallyloves- he will give his Lord’s contentment precedence over his desires. So he abandons his desires no matter how much he longs and yearns for them, because his delight and the tranquility of his soul lies in his abandoning all that for the sake of Allaah. Because of this, many of the believers- if one of them were to be beaten or forced to break his fast during a day in Ramadaan without a valid excuse, he would not break his fast. So this is from the greatest and most profound aspects of wisdom behind fasting.
Source:
Majaalis Shahr Ramadaan pgs. 41-43
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
From the wisdom of fasting is that: It is an act of worship done for Allaah, in which the ‘abd (servant) draws closer to His Lord by abandoning the things that he loves and desires, such as food, drink and sexual intercourse. So because of this, the truthfulness of his Faith and the completeness of his servitude to Allaah become apparent, as well as his love for Allaah and his longing for what Allaah has prepared for him (of good). This is since the one who fasts does not abandon something that is beloved to him except for that which is greater to him than it (which is Allaah). When the believer knows that Allaah’s contentmentl ies in the fasting- which is abandoning those desires that he naturallyloves- he will give his Lord’s contentment precedence over his desires. So he abandons his desires no matter how much he longs and yearns for them, because his delight and the tranquility of his soul lies in his abandoning all that for the sake of Allaah. Because of this, many of the believers- if one of them were to be beaten or forced to break his fast during a day in Ramadaan without a valid excuse, he would not break his fast. So this is from the greatest and most profound aspects of wisdom behind fasting.
Source:
Majaalis Shahr Ramadaan pgs. 41-43
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 2
Narrated Abû Huraira (may Allah be pleased with him): Allâh's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said, Saum (fasting) is a shield (or a screen or a shelter from the Hellfire). So, the person observing Saum (fast) should avoid sexual relations with his wife and should not behave foolishly and impudently, and if somebody fights with him or abuses him, he should say to him twice, `I am observing Saum (fast).' The Prophet (may peace be upon him) added, By Him in Whose Hands my soul is, the smell coming out from the mouth of a person observing Saum (fast) is better with Allâh than the smell of musk. (Allâh says about the fasting person), `He has left his food, drink and desires for My sake. The Saum (fast) is for Me, So I will reward the fasting person for it … (Bukhari)
Saturday, August 22, 2009
Ramadan in History- Part 1
by Dr. Abdullah Hakim Quick
Oh you who believe, Ramadan is a sacred month wherein Almighty Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) is constantly testing His creation and giving humanity the opportunity to achieve infinite, endless Bliss. Fasting is a complete purification and a means to developing the consciousness of Allah’s (subhanahu wa ta’ala) presence. The consciousness of Allah (subhanahu wata’ala), Taqwa, is a protection against the schemes of Shaitan, and the suffering of this world. Allah (subhanahuwa ta’ala) has informed us that, “Whoever keeps his duty to Allah (has taqwa), He ordains a way out for him and gives him sustenance from where he imagines not. And whoever trusts in Allah, He is sufficient for him. Surely Allah attains His purpose. Allah has appointed a measure for everything.” (65:2)
Many Muslims today have a misconception about fasting and the activities of a fasting person. They go into a state of semi-hibernation, spending most of their daylight hours in bed. If they fear Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala), they wake up for prayer, but then return to sleep immediately. This unnatural sleep makes them become lazy, dull witted and often cranky.
Ramadan is actually a time of increased activity wherein the believer, now lightened of the burdens of constant eating and drinking, should be more willing to strive and struggle for Allah(subhanahuwa ta’ala). The Prophet (May the blessing and peace of Allah be upon him) passed through approximately nine Ramadans after the Hijrah. They were filled with decisive events and left us a shining example of sacrifice and submission to Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala).
In the first year after the Hijrah, the Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) sent Hamza ibn Abdul Muttalib with thirty Muslim riders to Saif al Bahr to investigate three hundred riders from Quraish who had camped auspiciously in that area. The Muslims were about to engage the disbelievers, but they were separated by Majdy ibn Umar al-Juhany.
The Hypocrites of Al-Madinah, hoping to oppose the unity of the Muslims, built their own masjid (called Masjid al-Diraar). The Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) ordered this masjid to be destroyed in Ramadan.
On the seventeenth of Ramadan, 3 A.H., Almighty Allah (subhanahu wa ta’aala) separated truth from falsehood at the Great Battle of Badr. The Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) and 313 of his companions set out to intercept a caravan of their own goods that had been left in Makkah. It was led by Abu Sufyan, himself, and estimated at 60,000 dinars. They were met, instead, by a well equipped army of the nobility of Quraish, intent on putting out the light of Islam. Despite being outnumbered three to one and appearing weak and unseasoned, the Muslims defended their faith with a burning desire to protect the Prophet and meet their Lord through martyrdom. Allah (subhanahuwa ta’aala) gave them a decisive victory on this day of Ramadan, that would never be forgotten.
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Oh you who believe, Ramadan is a sacred month wherein Almighty Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) is constantly testing His creation and giving humanity the opportunity to achieve infinite, endless Bliss. Fasting is a complete purification and a means to developing the consciousness of Allah’s (subhanahu wa ta’ala) presence. The consciousness of Allah (subhanahu wata’ala), Taqwa, is a protection against the schemes of Shaitan, and the suffering of this world. Allah (subhanahuwa ta’ala) has informed us that, “Whoever keeps his duty to Allah (has taqwa), He ordains a way out for him and gives him sustenance from where he imagines not. And whoever trusts in Allah, He is sufficient for him. Surely Allah attains His purpose. Allah has appointed a measure for everything.” (65:2)
Many Muslims today have a misconception about fasting and the activities of a fasting person. They go into a state of semi-hibernation, spending most of their daylight hours in bed. If they fear Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala), they wake up for prayer, but then return to sleep immediately. This unnatural sleep makes them become lazy, dull witted and often cranky.
Ramadan is actually a time of increased activity wherein the believer, now lightened of the burdens of constant eating and drinking, should be more willing to strive and struggle for Allah(subhanahuwa ta’ala). The Prophet (May the blessing and peace of Allah be upon him) passed through approximately nine Ramadans after the Hijrah. They were filled with decisive events and left us a shining example of sacrifice and submission to Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala).
In the first year after the Hijrah, the Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) sent Hamza ibn Abdul Muttalib with thirty Muslim riders to Saif al Bahr to investigate three hundred riders from Quraish who had camped auspiciously in that area. The Muslims were about to engage the disbelievers, but they were separated by Majdy ibn Umar al-Juhany.
The Hypocrites of Al-Madinah, hoping to oppose the unity of the Muslims, built their own masjid (called Masjid al-Diraar). The Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) ordered this masjid to be destroyed in Ramadan.
On the seventeenth of Ramadan, 3 A.H., Almighty Allah (subhanahu wa ta’aala) separated truth from falsehood at the Great Battle of Badr. The Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) and 313 of his companions set out to intercept a caravan of their own goods that had been left in Makkah. It was led by Abu Sufyan, himself, and estimated at 60,000 dinars. They were met, instead, by a well equipped army of the nobility of Quraish, intent on putting out the light of Islam. Despite being outnumbered three to one and appearing weak and unseasoned, the Muslims defended their faith with a burning desire to protect the Prophet and meet their Lord through martyrdom. Allah (subhanahuwa ta’aala) gave them a decisive victory on this day of Ramadan, that would never be forgotten.
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 1
Narrated `Abdullâh bin `Umar (may Allah be pleased with him): Allâh's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said, The month can be 29 nights (i.e. days), and do not observe Saum (fast) till you see the crescent, and if the sky is overcast, then complete the month of Sha`bân as 30 days. (Bukhari)
Check these out!
Ramadan Brochures
1. The Month of Fasting- Ramadan
http://www.whyislam.org/OrderLiterature/Literature/41.pdf
2. Ramadan and Fasting- Fasting the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar
http://www.iiie.net/node/7
3. Ramadan- A Time for Revival or Survival?
http://web.youngmuslims.ca/resources/brochures/52-brochures/100-ramadan.html
4. Welcoming Ramadan
http://ionaonline.org/Internal_Pages/Broch...lcmgRmdn_wv.pdf
Ramadan Audio
1. http://www.halaltube.com/preparing-for-ramadan-with-halal-tube
2. http://www.islamictube.net/search_result.php?search_id=ramadan&search_type=search_videos&search_for=any&sort=relevance
Ramadan with Muslim Matters
http://muslimmatters.org/tag/ramadan/
For Sisters ONLY
1. http://sisters.islamway.com/forum/index.php?showforum=20
2. http://sistersbookroom.bbactif.com/sawm-fasting-the-month-of-ramadan-f50/
Check these out too!
1. http://www.ramadanreminders.com/
2. http://www.ramadhanzone.com/
3. http://kalamullah.com/ramadan.html
4. http://english.islamway.com/bindex.php?sec...&topicid=35
5. http://www.soundvision.com/info/ramadan/
6. http://www.alghurabaa.org/books/ramadan/
1. The Month of Fasting- Ramadan
http://www.whyislam.org/OrderLiterature/Literature/41.pdf
2. Ramadan and Fasting- Fasting the ninth month of the Islamic lunar calendar
http://www.iiie.net/node/7
3. Ramadan- A Time for Revival or Survival?
http://web.youngmuslims.ca/resources/brochures/52-brochures/100-ramadan.html
4. Welcoming Ramadan
http://ionaonline.org/Internal_Pages/Broch...lcmgRmdn_wv.pdf
Ramadan Audio
1. http://www.halaltube.com/preparing-for-ramadan-with-halal-tube
2. http://www.islamictube.net/search_result.php?search_id=ramadan&search_type=search_videos&search_for=any&sort=relevance
Ramadan with Muslim Matters
http://muslimmatters.org/tag/ramadan/
For Sisters ONLY
1. http://sisters.islamway.com/forum/index.php?showforum=20
2. http://sistersbookroom.bbactif.com/sawm-fasting-the-month-of-ramadan-f50/
Check these out too!
1. http://www.ramadanreminders.com/
2. http://www.ramadhanzone.com/
3. http://kalamullah.com/ramadan.html
4. http://english.islamway.com/bindex.php?sec...&topicid=35
5. http://www.soundvision.com/info/ramadan/
6. http://www.alghurabaa.org/books/ramadan/
Check these out too!
1. http://www.godallah.com/
2. http://www.beconvinced.com/archive/en/main.php?action=showcat&catid=03
3. http://www.islamreligion.com/category/39/
4. http://www.islamreligion.com/category/51/
5. http://www.islaam.net/main/display.php?category=3
6. http://www.islaam.net/main/display.php?category=27
7. http://kalamullah.com/aqeedah.html
8. http://www.alghurabaa.org/books/aqeedah-tawheed/
2. http://www.beconvinced.com/archive/en/main.php?action=showcat&catid=03
3. http://www.islamreligion.com/category/39/
4. http://www.islamreligion.com/category/51/
5. http://www.islaam.net/main/display.php?category=3
6. http://www.islaam.net/main/display.php?category=27
7. http://kalamullah.com/aqeedah.html
8. http://www.alghurabaa.org/books/aqeedah-tawheed/
Wednesday, August 19, 2009
The Mercy of Allah (God) (IISNA pamphlet)
“Limitless is your Lord in His mercy…” Qur’an 6:147
God Almighty is full of love and kindness to His creation. All blessings and goodness in this world and the next are clear proofs of His Mercy. Indeed, Islam teaches that God is more merciful toward us than our own mothers. How can it be otherwise, when some of God’s names and attributes include:
1. The Acceptor of Repentance;
2. The Compassionate;
3. The Loving;
4. The Forbearing One;
5. The Most Gracious;
6. The Most Merciful;
7. The Source of Goodness;
8. The Most Generous;
9. The Bestower
These names all indicate that God is characterized by mercy, goodness and generosity. They testify to the vastness and perfection of His mercy, which He blesses all of His creation. This same creation is addressed by God, when He says, “O son of Adam, were you to come to Me with sins nearly as great as the earth and were you then to face Me, ascribing no partner to Me, I would bring you forgiveness nearly as great as the earth.”
Examples of Allah's Mercy & blessings
“Then which of the Blessings of your Lord will you deny?” Qur’an 55:13
Throughout life, people continually receive Allah’s blessings, be it good health, sight, hearing, nourishment, clean air, children, wealth and countless others. Some use their Godgiven gifts of intelligence and reasoning to acknowledge these blessings, grasp the purpose of their existence, and thereby submit themselves to Allah. Others, however, do not appreciate the mercy of Allah toward their own selves, even though He feeds and sustains them despite their disobedience toward Him. They are given mobility, enjoyment, freedom of thought and action, despite their outright denial of Him. Their very existence would not be, were it not for the Mercy of Allah.
Ultimately, everyone has the free will to acknowledge their blessings, use them in a manner ordained by Allah (the Lord of mankind) and worship Him alone. Below, we have outlined a glimpse of such blessings, because “... if you were to try and count the favors of Allah, you could not enumerate them. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” Qur’an 16:18
Guidance Through Divine Scriptures & Prophets
“It is He Who has sent down the Book (the Qur’an) to you (Muhammad) with truth, confirming what came before it. And He sent down the Taurah and the Injeel (the original revelations revealed to Prophets Moses and Jesus respectively).” Qur’an 3:3
From the beginning of creation, man was not left to face the struggles of life alone. Due to God’s mercy, man received revelation through Prophets, who conveyed and taught it to their people to guide and protect them. The most perfect and merciful of revelations was the Qur’an and the last of the prophets was Muhammad (peace be upon him).
The Qur’an – the final revelation – superseded and abrogated previous revelations, and is the ultimate mercy and guidance for mankind. Just as God sent Messengers in the past, He also sent mankind a living, perfect and practical example of how the Qur’an’s teachings of mercy and justice should be practically applied in our daily lives. This example was Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) - a mercy to mankind.
“And We (God) have not sent you (Muhammad) except as a mercy for mankind.” Qur’an 21:107
Following are just some of the Prophet’s sayings which are indicative of his mercy, kindness, tolerance and beautiful teachings:
1. “Kindness is not found in anything except that it adds to its beauty, and is not withdrawn from anything except that it makes it deficient.”
2. “The most perfect of believers in belief is the best of them in character.”
3. “He is not a perfect Muslim who eats his fill while his neighbor goes hungry.”
4. “Allah will not show mercy to him who does not show mercy to others.”
How desperately do we, as a society, and in these times, need such beautiful advice?
Mercy Towards The Creation
The creation of human beings and all their faculties is a great mercy in itself. The fact that we can get out of bed, work, eat, play and sleep should make us grateful.
“And out of His mercy He made for you the night and the day that you may rest therein and [by day] seek from his bounty and [that] perhaps you will be grateful.” Qur’an 28:73
A spouse is one of the greatest of mercies, a means to tranquility and affection.
“And of His signs is that He created for you, from yourselves, mates that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought.” Qur’an 30:21
Another mercy is the fact that He created us sinless and will not hold us to account until the age of maturity and decision making. This is in stark contrast to the “Original Sin” concept in Christianity.
Forgiveness of sins is another example of Allah’s mercy, as Allah knows we are imperfect and commit mistakes. Allah knows we are imperfect and consequently commit mistakes throughout life. The fact that believers commit sins does not mean that we should lose hope of Allah’s mercy or that we have exhausted Allah’s forgiveness.
“O My servants who have transgressed against their souls! Do not despair of the Mercy of God: for God forgives all sins: for He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” Qur’an 39:53
Even animals are not exempt from Allah’s Mercy. They have faculties of hearing and sight, are provided with sustenance and offspring, and are granted many other blessings. Allah’s mercy envelops them to the point that because of one single portion of Allah’s mercy sent to earth, “...His creatures are merciful to each other, so that even the mare lifts up its hoof away from its baby animal, lest it should trample on it.” The Merciful Creator ensures that every creation is looked after - from the fish in the depths of the ocean, to the insects in the earth, and the birds in the skies – all are sustained by Him.
How to increase Allah's Mercy upon us
“Indeed, the mercy of Allah is near to the doers of good.” Qur’an 7:56
Due to God’s Mercy, He has promised to forgive and pardon whosoever follows the appropriate means as mentioned in the following verse:
“And surely, I am indeed forgiving to him who repents, believes (in My Oneness, and associates none in worship with Me) and does righteous good deeds, and then remains constant in doing them.” Qur’an 20:82
Part and parcel of having the correct belief is believing and obeying the final Messenger, Muhammad (peace be upon him).
In short, the people who receive more of Allah’s mercy are those who have acknowledged His blessings and favors; used them in a way which pleases God; spent their God-given wealth in charity and to look after the needy; employed their hands to care for orphans; utilized their gift of speech to speak good; and performed other honorable acts ordained by God.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Allah will show mercy to those who show mercy to people. Show mercy to those who are on earth - the One Who is in Heaven will show mercy to you.”
Below, are some ways to attain God’s Mercy.
1. “Obey Allah and the Messenger that you may obtain mercy.” Qur’an 3:132
2. By following the teachings of mercy and justice found in the Qur’an: “And this is a blessed Book We have revealed; therefore follow it and protect yourself (against evil), that mercy may be shown to you.” Qur’an 6:155
3. “Keep up prayer and pay the compulsory charity (to the needy) and obey the Messenger, so that mercy may be shown to you.” Qur’an 24:56
4. Sincerely asking for Mercy from God. “Our Lord! Make not our hearts to deviate after you have guided us aright, and grant us mercy from Yourself; surely You are The Bestower.” Qur’an 3:8
Mercy & Accountability
Alongside Allah’s attribute of Mercy is His attribute of Justice.
“Verily, for the Righteous, are Gardens of Delight, in the Presence of their Lord. Shall We then treat the People of Faith like those who do not believe? What is the matter with you? How do you judge?” Qur’an 68:34-36
Allah is the Most-Merciful, however, He is also Swift in Reckoning. One cannot try to deceive Allah and take advantage of His Mercy by constantly committing the same sins without sincere repentance or resolving never to go back to the sin again.
“And of no effect is the repentance of those who continue to do evil deeds until death faces one of them and he says: ‘Now I repent;’ nor of those who die while they are disbelievers.” Qur’an 4:18
Muslims are encouraged to have hope of reward for good deeds, while being concerned about sins they may perform. When they commit sins, they repent sincerely, and are hopeful of being forgiven. And finally, they feel content with the words of their Creator, and keep it close to their heart:
“Surely Allah is Most Gentle, Ever Compassionate to people.” Qur’an 22:65
God Almighty is full of love and kindness to His creation. All blessings and goodness in this world and the next are clear proofs of His Mercy. Indeed, Islam teaches that God is more merciful toward us than our own mothers. How can it be otherwise, when some of God’s names and attributes include:
1. The Acceptor of Repentance;
2. The Compassionate;
3. The Loving;
4. The Forbearing One;
5. The Most Gracious;
6. The Most Merciful;
7. The Source of Goodness;
8. The Most Generous;
9. The Bestower
These names all indicate that God is characterized by mercy, goodness and generosity. They testify to the vastness and perfection of His mercy, which He blesses all of His creation. This same creation is addressed by God, when He says, “O son of Adam, were you to come to Me with sins nearly as great as the earth and were you then to face Me, ascribing no partner to Me, I would bring you forgiveness nearly as great as the earth.”
Examples of Allah's Mercy & blessings
“Then which of the Blessings of your Lord will you deny?” Qur’an 55:13
Throughout life, people continually receive Allah’s blessings, be it good health, sight, hearing, nourishment, clean air, children, wealth and countless others. Some use their Godgiven gifts of intelligence and reasoning to acknowledge these blessings, grasp the purpose of their existence, and thereby submit themselves to Allah. Others, however, do not appreciate the mercy of Allah toward their own selves, even though He feeds and sustains them despite their disobedience toward Him. They are given mobility, enjoyment, freedom of thought and action, despite their outright denial of Him. Their very existence would not be, were it not for the Mercy of Allah.
Ultimately, everyone has the free will to acknowledge their blessings, use them in a manner ordained by Allah (the Lord of mankind) and worship Him alone. Below, we have outlined a glimpse of such blessings, because “... if you were to try and count the favors of Allah, you could not enumerate them. Indeed, Allah is Forgiving and Merciful.” Qur’an 16:18
Guidance Through Divine Scriptures & Prophets
“It is He Who has sent down the Book (the Qur’an) to you (Muhammad) with truth, confirming what came before it. And He sent down the Taurah and the Injeel (the original revelations revealed to Prophets Moses and Jesus respectively).” Qur’an 3:3
From the beginning of creation, man was not left to face the struggles of life alone. Due to God’s mercy, man received revelation through Prophets, who conveyed and taught it to their people to guide and protect them. The most perfect and merciful of revelations was the Qur’an and the last of the prophets was Muhammad (peace be upon him).
The Qur’an – the final revelation – superseded and abrogated previous revelations, and is the ultimate mercy and guidance for mankind. Just as God sent Messengers in the past, He also sent mankind a living, perfect and practical example of how the Qur’an’s teachings of mercy and justice should be practically applied in our daily lives. This example was Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) - a mercy to mankind.
“And We (God) have not sent you (Muhammad) except as a mercy for mankind.” Qur’an 21:107
Following are just some of the Prophet’s sayings which are indicative of his mercy, kindness, tolerance and beautiful teachings:
1. “Kindness is not found in anything except that it adds to its beauty, and is not withdrawn from anything except that it makes it deficient.”
2. “The most perfect of believers in belief is the best of them in character.”
3. “He is not a perfect Muslim who eats his fill while his neighbor goes hungry.”
4. “Allah will not show mercy to him who does not show mercy to others.”
How desperately do we, as a society, and in these times, need such beautiful advice?
Mercy Towards The Creation
The creation of human beings and all their faculties is a great mercy in itself. The fact that we can get out of bed, work, eat, play and sleep should make us grateful.
“And out of His mercy He made for you the night and the day that you may rest therein and [by day] seek from his bounty and [that] perhaps you will be grateful.” Qur’an 28:73
A spouse is one of the greatest of mercies, a means to tranquility and affection.
“And of His signs is that He created for you, from yourselves, mates that you may find tranquility in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought.” Qur’an 30:21
Another mercy is the fact that He created us sinless and will not hold us to account until the age of maturity and decision making. This is in stark contrast to the “Original Sin” concept in Christianity.
Forgiveness of sins is another example of Allah’s mercy, as Allah knows we are imperfect and commit mistakes. Allah knows we are imperfect and consequently commit mistakes throughout life. The fact that believers commit sins does not mean that we should lose hope of Allah’s mercy or that we have exhausted Allah’s forgiveness.
“O My servants who have transgressed against their souls! Do not despair of the Mercy of God: for God forgives all sins: for He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” Qur’an 39:53
Even animals are not exempt from Allah’s Mercy. They have faculties of hearing and sight, are provided with sustenance and offspring, and are granted many other blessings. Allah’s mercy envelops them to the point that because of one single portion of Allah’s mercy sent to earth, “...His creatures are merciful to each other, so that even the mare lifts up its hoof away from its baby animal, lest it should trample on it.” The Merciful Creator ensures that every creation is looked after - from the fish in the depths of the ocean, to the insects in the earth, and the birds in the skies – all are sustained by Him.
How to increase Allah's Mercy upon us
“Indeed, the mercy of Allah is near to the doers of good.” Qur’an 7:56
Due to God’s Mercy, He has promised to forgive and pardon whosoever follows the appropriate means as mentioned in the following verse:
“And surely, I am indeed forgiving to him who repents, believes (in My Oneness, and associates none in worship with Me) and does righteous good deeds, and then remains constant in doing them.” Qur’an 20:82
Part and parcel of having the correct belief is believing and obeying the final Messenger, Muhammad (peace be upon him).
In short, the people who receive more of Allah’s mercy are those who have acknowledged His blessings and favors; used them in a way which pleases God; spent their God-given wealth in charity and to look after the needy; employed their hands to care for orphans; utilized their gift of speech to speak good; and performed other honorable acts ordained by God.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Allah will show mercy to those who show mercy to people. Show mercy to those who are on earth - the One Who is in Heaven will show mercy to you.”
Below, are some ways to attain God’s Mercy.
1. “Obey Allah and the Messenger that you may obtain mercy.” Qur’an 3:132
2. By following the teachings of mercy and justice found in the Qur’an: “And this is a blessed Book We have revealed; therefore follow it and protect yourself (against evil), that mercy may be shown to you.” Qur’an 6:155
3. “Keep up prayer and pay the compulsory charity (to the needy) and obey the Messenger, so that mercy may be shown to you.” Qur’an 24:56
4. Sincerely asking for Mercy from God. “Our Lord! Make not our hearts to deviate after you have guided us aright, and grant us mercy from Yourself; surely You are The Bestower.” Qur’an 3:8
Mercy & Accountability
Alongside Allah’s attribute of Mercy is His attribute of Justice.
“Verily, for the Righteous, are Gardens of Delight, in the Presence of their Lord. Shall We then treat the People of Faith like those who do not believe? What is the matter with you? How do you judge?” Qur’an 68:34-36
Allah is the Most-Merciful, however, He is also Swift in Reckoning. One cannot try to deceive Allah and take advantage of His Mercy by constantly committing the same sins without sincere repentance or resolving never to go back to the sin again.
“And of no effect is the repentance of those who continue to do evil deeds until death faces one of them and he says: ‘Now I repent;’ nor of those who die while they are disbelievers.” Qur’an 4:18
Muslims are encouraged to have hope of reward for good deeds, while being concerned about sins they may perform. When they commit sins, they repent sincerely, and are hopeful of being forgiven. And finally, they feel content with the words of their Creator, and keep it close to their heart:
“Surely Allah is Most Gentle, Ever Compassionate to people.” Qur’an 22:65
The Oneness of God in Islam (IISNA pamphlet)
Say: He, Allah, is One. Allah is He on Whom all depend. He begets not, nor is He begotten. And none is like Him. Qur’an 112:1-4
The teaching of God’s complete Oneness is the essence of Islam. All other laws, beliefs and commands of Islam are built on this foundation. Take it away, and there is nothing left of the religion.
God’s name is unique
“Allah” is the proper and personal name applied to The One True God. Nothing else can be called Allah. The term has no plural or gender unlike the English word “God” which can be made both plural and feminine (i.e. gods/goddess). The unique usage of “Allah” as a personal name of God is a reflection of Islam’s emphasis on the purity of the belief in one God.
There is no god except Allah
And your god is One God. There is no god but He. Qur’an 2:163
The Oneness of God in Islam is a comprehensive teaching and can be further understood through the following attributes of Allah:
1. Allah has no partners, no equals and no rivals
2. Allah has no father, mother, sons, daughters or wives
3. Allah is worshipped directly without anyone or anything acting as an intermediary
4. Allah is not in need of anyone’s worship
5. Allah is not answerable to anyone
6. Allah is not dependant on any person or thing, but all persons and things are dependant on Him
7. Allah created everything without any assistance
8. There is nothing above or comparable to Allah
9. There is nothing that exists except that it is completely subservient to Him
10. No one can withhold what Allah provides and no one can provide what Allah withholds
11. Allah alone can benefit or harm
Allah has no equals
Are many lords differing among themselves better, or Allah, the One, the Supreme? Qur’an 12:39
Muslims believe that the existence of the One True, Unique, Supreme, Almighty God, is the only logical concept of God. There cannot be, for example, two Absolutely Powerful Creators, and a moment’s thought shows that this is not feasible. If there were more than one God it would surely lead to confusion, disorder, chaos and destruction in the universe. The universe however, is in complete harmony. The Qur’an summarizes this in the following verse:
No son (or offspring) did Allah beget, nor is there any god along with Him. (If there had been many gods) then each god would have taken away what he had created, and some would have tried to overcome others! Glorified be Allah above all that they attribute to Him. Qur’an 23:91
Allah alone is worthy of worship
And worship Allah and associate none with Him. Qur’an 4:36
From the Islamic standpoint, believing in the Oneness of God means to realize that all prayer and acts of worship should be exclusively to God. None have the right to be invoked, supplicated, sworn upon or prayed to but God alone. Nothing else is worthy of worship: not statues, crosses, tombs, the sun, the moon, stars, temples, animals, Prophets, Messengers, saints, priests or religious scholars. All of these things are created and limited, hence imperfect - they are not worthy of worship in Islam, whereas Allah is perfect.
The Qur’an reminds us of the falsity of all alleged gods as follows:
1. Do you worship what you have carved yourself? But Allah has created you and what you make. Qur’an 37:95-96
2. Surely those you call upon besides Allah, are only slaves like yourselves. Qur’an 7:194
The creation does not share in Allah’s Perfect attributes
And there is nothing like Him. Qur’an 112:4
Islam teaches that no part of Allah is present in anyone or anything (although His knowledge encompasses everything). The idea of any created object or being possessing any of Allah’s perfect attributes is completely rejected in Islam. To give a created thing attributes or powers only befitting the Creator is to elevate the creation to a level of partnership with the Creator. For example, the belief that good-luck charms, amulets and superstitions, such as rabbits’ feet, horse shoes and the number 13, have the ability to bring benefit or harm is effectively making partners with Allah. This is because He alone is All-Powerful, and therefore He alone is able to harm or benefit:
And do not call besides Allah on that which can neither benefit you nor harm you, for if you do then surely you will be amongst the wrong-doers. Qur’an 10:106
Other examples include fortune telling and astrology. Whoever claims to know the future is attributing to himself/herself one of the attributes of Allah, i.e. the only Knower of the unseen and hidden things.
He alone has the keys of the Unseen, none knows them but He. Qur’an 6:59
Allah is not like His creation
Similar to how Islam forbids attributing Allah’s divine attributes to His creation, Islam also rejects the notion of attributing human qualities and limitations to Allah. An example of this is how some religions claim that “God rested on the 7th day” after He created everything. Allah does not need rest and to believe so is to attribute imperfection to Allah:
We created the heavens and the earth and what is in between them in six days, and no weariness touched Us. Qur'an 50:38
Islam makes a clear distinction between the imperfection of creation and the perfection of Allah. He is far above any imperfections that His creation has described Him with. Some religions however, believe that Allah fashioned Himself into a human body and was both fully God and fully man at the same time. We should consider that God has attributes of perfection such as being All-Knowing, All-Powerful and Immortal. Man however, has imperfect attributes. Man has limited knowledge, limited power and is mortal. Muslims are saved from having to ponder over this illogical concept (that God became man or any aspect of His creation) due to the pure and comprehensive Islamic concept of God.
Allah is worshipped directly
There is nothing to prevent a person from calling directly upon Allah and asking for His help and forgiveness. Allah hears all who praise and call upon Him. There is no “middle man” in Islam; everyone has uninterrupted and direct access to God. Muslims are required to maintain a direct relationship with God. Worshipping Allah indirectly (e.g. through an idol, statue or other intermediaries) is viewed as compromising Allah’s Oneness and contaminating the purity of worship that Allah surely deserves.
Surely pure religion (Worship and obedience) is for Allah only. And those who take protectors besides Him (say): “We worship them only that they may bring us closer to Allah” … Truly Allah guides not him who is a liar and a disbeliever. Qur’an 39:3
All Prophets called to the Oneness of God
And certainly We raised in every nation a messenger (saying): Serve Allah and avoid false gods. Qur’an 16:36
Muslims believe in all the Prophets that Allah sent to every nation. They all came with the same message – the Oneness of God. Below we see some examples:
1. Noah (peace be upon him) said [Qur’an 7:59], “O my people! Worship Allah! You have no other gods besides Him.”
2. Abraham (peace be upon him) said [Qur’an 21:66], “Do you worship besides Allah, things that can neither be of any good to you nor do you harm?”
3. Moses (peace be upon him) said [Qur’an 7:140], “What! Shall I seek for you a god other than Allah while He has made you excel (all) created things?”
4. Jesus (peace be upon him) said [Qur’an 43:64], “For Allah, He is my Lord and your Lord: so worship Him: this is the Straight Way.”
5. Muhammad (peace be upon him) was commanded to say [Qur’an 18:110], “I am only a man like you. It has been revealed to me that your God is One God. So whoever expects to meet his Lord then let him do good deeds and associate none as a partner in the worship of his Lord.”
The foundation of the Islamic faith is belief in the Oneness and Uniqueness of Almighty God, and as we have seen, Islam discards any concept which leads to the denial of Allah’s Oneness. There is One God, and none has the right to be worshipped but He.
The teaching of God’s complete Oneness is the essence of Islam. All other laws, beliefs and commands of Islam are built on this foundation. Take it away, and there is nothing left of the religion.
God’s name is unique
“Allah” is the proper and personal name applied to The One True God. Nothing else can be called Allah. The term has no plural or gender unlike the English word “God” which can be made both plural and feminine (i.e. gods/goddess). The unique usage of “Allah” as a personal name of God is a reflection of Islam’s emphasis on the purity of the belief in one God.
There is no god except Allah
And your god is One God. There is no god but He. Qur’an 2:163
The Oneness of God in Islam is a comprehensive teaching and can be further understood through the following attributes of Allah:
1. Allah has no partners, no equals and no rivals
2. Allah has no father, mother, sons, daughters or wives
3. Allah is worshipped directly without anyone or anything acting as an intermediary
4. Allah is not in need of anyone’s worship
5. Allah is not answerable to anyone
6. Allah is not dependant on any person or thing, but all persons and things are dependant on Him
7. Allah created everything without any assistance
8. There is nothing above or comparable to Allah
9. There is nothing that exists except that it is completely subservient to Him
10. No one can withhold what Allah provides and no one can provide what Allah withholds
11. Allah alone can benefit or harm
Allah has no equals
Are many lords differing among themselves better, or Allah, the One, the Supreme? Qur’an 12:39
Muslims believe that the existence of the One True, Unique, Supreme, Almighty God, is the only logical concept of God. There cannot be, for example, two Absolutely Powerful Creators, and a moment’s thought shows that this is not feasible. If there were more than one God it would surely lead to confusion, disorder, chaos and destruction in the universe. The universe however, is in complete harmony. The Qur’an summarizes this in the following verse:
No son (or offspring) did Allah beget, nor is there any god along with Him. (If there had been many gods) then each god would have taken away what he had created, and some would have tried to overcome others! Glorified be Allah above all that they attribute to Him. Qur’an 23:91
Allah alone is worthy of worship
And worship Allah and associate none with Him. Qur’an 4:36
From the Islamic standpoint, believing in the Oneness of God means to realize that all prayer and acts of worship should be exclusively to God. None have the right to be invoked, supplicated, sworn upon or prayed to but God alone. Nothing else is worthy of worship: not statues, crosses, tombs, the sun, the moon, stars, temples, animals, Prophets, Messengers, saints, priests or religious scholars. All of these things are created and limited, hence imperfect - they are not worthy of worship in Islam, whereas Allah is perfect.
The Qur’an reminds us of the falsity of all alleged gods as follows:
1. Do you worship what you have carved yourself? But Allah has created you and what you make. Qur’an 37:95-96
2. Surely those you call upon besides Allah, are only slaves like yourselves. Qur’an 7:194
The creation does not share in Allah’s Perfect attributes
And there is nothing like Him. Qur’an 112:4
Islam teaches that no part of Allah is present in anyone or anything (although His knowledge encompasses everything). The idea of any created object or being possessing any of Allah’s perfect attributes is completely rejected in Islam. To give a created thing attributes or powers only befitting the Creator is to elevate the creation to a level of partnership with the Creator. For example, the belief that good-luck charms, amulets and superstitions, such as rabbits’ feet, horse shoes and the number 13, have the ability to bring benefit or harm is effectively making partners with Allah. This is because He alone is All-Powerful, and therefore He alone is able to harm or benefit:
And do not call besides Allah on that which can neither benefit you nor harm you, for if you do then surely you will be amongst the wrong-doers. Qur’an 10:106
Other examples include fortune telling and astrology. Whoever claims to know the future is attributing to himself/herself one of the attributes of Allah, i.e. the only Knower of the unseen and hidden things.
He alone has the keys of the Unseen, none knows them but He. Qur’an 6:59
Allah is not like His creation
Similar to how Islam forbids attributing Allah’s divine attributes to His creation, Islam also rejects the notion of attributing human qualities and limitations to Allah. An example of this is how some religions claim that “God rested on the 7th day” after He created everything. Allah does not need rest and to believe so is to attribute imperfection to Allah:
We created the heavens and the earth and what is in between them in six days, and no weariness touched Us. Qur'an 50:38
Islam makes a clear distinction between the imperfection of creation and the perfection of Allah. He is far above any imperfections that His creation has described Him with. Some religions however, believe that Allah fashioned Himself into a human body and was both fully God and fully man at the same time. We should consider that God has attributes of perfection such as being All-Knowing, All-Powerful and Immortal. Man however, has imperfect attributes. Man has limited knowledge, limited power and is mortal. Muslims are saved from having to ponder over this illogical concept (that God became man or any aspect of His creation) due to the pure and comprehensive Islamic concept of God.
Allah is worshipped directly
There is nothing to prevent a person from calling directly upon Allah and asking for His help and forgiveness. Allah hears all who praise and call upon Him. There is no “middle man” in Islam; everyone has uninterrupted and direct access to God. Muslims are required to maintain a direct relationship with God. Worshipping Allah indirectly (e.g. through an idol, statue or other intermediaries) is viewed as compromising Allah’s Oneness and contaminating the purity of worship that Allah surely deserves.
Surely pure religion (Worship and obedience) is for Allah only. And those who take protectors besides Him (say): “We worship them only that they may bring us closer to Allah” … Truly Allah guides not him who is a liar and a disbeliever. Qur’an 39:3
All Prophets called to the Oneness of God
And certainly We raised in every nation a messenger (saying): Serve Allah and avoid false gods. Qur’an 16:36
Muslims believe in all the Prophets that Allah sent to every nation. They all came with the same message – the Oneness of God. Below we see some examples:
1. Noah (peace be upon him) said [Qur’an 7:59], “O my people! Worship Allah! You have no other gods besides Him.”
2. Abraham (peace be upon him) said [Qur’an 21:66], “Do you worship besides Allah, things that can neither be of any good to you nor do you harm?”
3. Moses (peace be upon him) said [Qur’an 7:140], “What! Shall I seek for you a god other than Allah while He has made you excel (all) created things?”
4. Jesus (peace be upon him) said [Qur’an 43:64], “For Allah, He is my Lord and your Lord: so worship Him: this is the Straight Way.”
5. Muhammad (peace be upon him) was commanded to say [Qur’an 18:110], “I am only a man like you. It has been revealed to me that your God is One God. So whoever expects to meet his Lord then let him do good deeds and associate none as a partner in the worship of his Lord.”
The foundation of the Islamic faith is belief in the Oneness and Uniqueness of Almighty God, and as we have seen, Islam discards any concept which leads to the denial of Allah’s Oneness. There is One God, and none has the right to be worshipped but He.
Tuesday, August 18, 2009
Allah (III&E brochure)
The Creator And Lord Of The Universe
by M. Amir Ali, Ph.D.
Allah is the name of the true One God in the Arabic language. In the Hebrew language His name is Eloh, Elohim for respect. It is well known that when a word is borrowed from one language to another it’s spelling and pronunciation is often altered. It is, therefore, reasonable to say that Eloh and Allah are names of the same Deity of Abraham believed by the three monotheistic religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Islam is the most rigorously monotheistic religion among the three dedicated to the worship of Allah, never seen by a human eye.
Who is Allah? The translation of verses from the Qur’an are given to answer this question. References of the verses are given in brackets, the number before the colon represents the Surah (chapter) and the following number represents the verse number.
Allah, the One Only
1. "Proclaim: Allah is One. Allah is Eternal. He neither begets nor was begotten." (112:1-4)
2. "Nothing is like unto Him." (42:11)
3. "If there were therein Gods besides Allah, then verily both (the heavens and the earth) would have collapsed into disorder and chaos. Glorified be Allah, the Lord of the Throne, transcendent beyond all they ascribe unto Him." (21:22)
4. "Sight can never reach Him; His sight reaches all things." (6:103)
5. "And proclaim: Praise be to Allah, Who has not taken unto Himself a son, and Who has no partner in the Sovereignty, nor has He (need for) any protecting friend through dependence. (17:111)
6. "Allah! There is no God save Him." (3:2, 2:255)
7. "Is there any God beside Allah? Nay, but they are folk who ascribe equals (unto Him)! (27:60).
8. "Is there any God beside Allah? Nay, but most of them know not." (27:61)
Attributes of Allah
Muslims talk about ninety-nine attributes of Allah; a few are given in the following verses of the Qur’an.
1. "And He is the Mighty, the Wise. His is the Sovereignty of the heavens and the earth; He gives life and He gives death; and He is able to do all things. He is the First and the Last, and the Outward and the Inward; and He is the Knower of all things." (57:1-3)
2. "Allah is He, other than Whom there is no deity. He knows (all things) both secret and open; He, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. Allah is He, other than Whom there is no deity; the Sovereign, the Holy One, the Source of Peace (and Perfection), the Guardian of Faith, the Preserver of Safety, the Exalted in Might, the Irresistible, the Supreme: Glory to Allah! (High is He) above the partners they attribute to Him. He is Allah the Creator, the Evolver, the Bestower of Forms (and Colors). To Him belong the Most Beautiful Names: Whatever is the heavens and on earth, do declare His Praise and Glory; and He is exalted in Might, the Wise." (59:22-24)
3. "Allah! There is no God save Him, the Alive, the Eternal. Neither slumber nor sleep overtakes Him. Unto Him belongs whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth. Who is he that intercedes with Him save by His permission? He knows that which is in front of them and that which is behind them, while they encompass nothing of His knowledge save what He will. His throne includes the heavens and the earth, and He is never weary of preserving them. He is the Sublime, the Tremendous." (2:255)
4. "The Originator of the heavens and the earth!" (6:101)
5. "The Beneficent, the Merciful: Owner of the Day of Judgment. (1:3-4)
6. "Say: Call upon Allah, or call upon Ar-Rahman: by whatever name you call upon Him, (it is well): For to Him belong the Most Beautiful Names." (17:110)
7. "And you seek the Grace of Allah: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (73:20)
8. "The revelation of this Book is from Allah, Exalted in Power, Full of Knowledge, Who forgives sin, accepts repentance, is strict in punishment, and has a long reach (in all things). There is no god but He: to Him is the Final Goal." (40:2-3)
Allah the Creator
1. "Have not those who disbelieve known that the heavens and the earth were of one piece, then We parted them, and We made every living thing from water? Will they not then believe?" (21:30)
[In this verse ‘We’ belongs to imperial language, not of plurality. In the Qur’an, Allah uses ‘I’, ‘Me’ ‘We’ and ‘Us’ for Himself.]
2. "And He it is Who created the night and the day, and the sun and the moon. They float each in an orbit… And from among His signs are the night and the day, and the sun and the moon. Prostrate not to the sun nor to the moon, but prostrate to Allah Who created them, if you (really) worship Him." (21:33, 41:37)
3. "He has created man: He has imparted unto him articulate thought and speech. [At His behest] the sun and the moon run their appointed courses; the stars and the trees prostrate themselves [before Him]. And the skies has He raised high, and has devised [for all things] a measure, so that you [too, O men,] might never transgress the measure [of what is right]: weigh, therefore, [your deeds] with equity, and cut not the measure short! (55:3-9)
4. "It is Allah Who created everything in the best of form…It is He Who created and perfected all things." (32:7, 87:2)
5. "It is Allah Who created life and death that you may prove yourself worthy in your deeds." (67:2)
6. "Such is Allah, your Lord. There is no god except Him, the Creator of all things, so serve Him. And He takes care of all things." (6:102)
7. "He is the Cleaver of the daybreak, and He has appointed the night for stillness, and the sun and the moon to run their appointed courses: [all] this is laid down by the Will of the Almighty, the All-Knowing. (6:96)
8. "Allah is He Who created seven heavens and of the earth a similar number. Through the midst of them (all) descends His command: that you may know that Allah has power over all things, and that Allah comprehends all things in (His) knowledge." (65:12)
9. "He it is Who has made the sun a [source of] radiant light and the moon shining [surface], and has determined for it phases so that you might know how to compute the years and to measure [time]. None of this has Allah created without [an inner] truth. Clearly does He spell out these messages unto people of [innate] knowledge." (10:5)
10. "Allah has indeed made all things in heaven and earth subservient to humankind; it is all from Him. Lo! Herein verily are portents for people who reflect." (45:13)
Allah, the Sustainer, the Cherisher, the Lord (Al-Rabb)
1. "All praise is due to Allah Alone, the Lord [the Sustainer, the Cherisher] of the worlds." (1:2)
2. "Everything We have created and prescribed for its measure, its character and destiny…No creature creeps on earth but Allah provides for it its sustenance. He knows its purpose and destiny. For it is He Who prescribed them in His eternal order…The sun rises and sets traversing its orbit exactly as the Almighty, the All Knowing has ordained. And the moon passes regularly through its phases, returning to its original thin crescent form. Neither sun nor moon overtakes the other; neither night nor day deviates from their preordained courses. Each moves in the orbit Allah has ordained for it. (54:49, 11:6, 36:38-40)
In the Qur’an, the name Allah is used more than 2,600 times and His attribute, Al-Rabb (the Lord, the Cherisher, the Sustainer), has been used over 1,000 times.
Allah Revealed the Truth – Option Given
1. "We revealed to you the Book in truth, that you may proclaim it to the world. Whoever decides to be guided by its guidance does so to his own credit. Whoever rejects its guidance does so to his own discredit and you are not a warder over them." (39:41)
2. "Let there be no compulsion [or coercion] in religion: Truth stands out clear from error; whoever rejects evil and believes in Allah has grasped the most trustworthy handhold that never breaks. And Allah hears and knows all things." (2:256)
3. "And say: The Truth [has now come] from your Lord: let, then him who wills, believe in it, and let him who wills, reject it." (18:29)
4. "And if your Lord willed, all who are in the earth would have believed together. Would you [Muhammad] compel men until they are believers?" (10:99)
5. "No person is responsible for the guilt of another. To every person belongs the merit or demerit of what he had wrought… Allah does not charge a person with more than he can bear. Therefore, to everyone belongs the credit or discredit which he had personally earned." (53:38-39, 2:286)
6. "Whoever guides himself by Our revelation does so to his own credit. Whoever goes astray does so to his own peril. Nobody will be responsible for another’s deeds, and We will not judge but after a messenger sent [to proclaim and warn] … Whoever does good will have that good reckoned for him. Whoever does evil will have that evil marked against him. Your Lord commits no injustice to His servants." (17:15, 41:46)
7. "Say: You are not accountable for our crimes; nor are we for the evil you do… On the Day of Judgment, no person will of any avail to another, neither for good nor for ill. Those who committed injustice will be assigned to the Fire which they denied." (34:25,42)
8. "Say: Are those who know equal with those who know not? But only men of understanding will pay heed." (39:9)
9. "There is not an animal in the earth nor a flying creature flying on two wings, but they are community like unto you. We have neglected nothing in the Book. Then unto their Lord they will be gathered." (6:38)
10. "Allah has made what is in the heavens and on the earth subservient to you… And He has made subservient to you the sun and the moon, predetermined in their orbits, and the day and the night… It is Allah Who made you His trustees on earth… Can you not see that Allah made all that is on earth subservient to you?" (14:33, 31:29, 35:39, 22:65)
Allah was the God-in-Chief of the Pagan Arabs
1. "If indeed you ask them (the pagan Arabs) who has created the heavens and the earth and subjected the sun and the moon (to His Law), they will certainly reply, ‘Allah’… And if indeed you ask them Who it is that sends down rain from the sky, and gives life therewith to the earth after its death, they will certainly reply, ‘Allah!’" (29:61,63; similar message is found in 31:25; 39:38; 43:9)
2. "And those unto whom they (the pagan Arabs) call instead of Him (Allah) possess no power of intercession, … And if you ask them who created them (gods of the pagans and pagans themselves), they will surely say, ‘Allah!’" (43:86,87)
Fabrications against Islam
In 1990, one of the most anti-Islam demagogues, named Robert Morey, published an anti-Islam book in which he claimed that Allah is the name of the moon-god, therefore, Islam is another old pagan religion. The claim that Allah is the moon god did not exist before the publication of Robert Morey’s book in 1990; apparently he is the originator of this idea. Allah is the name of the originator of the Universe who has a variety of names in various languages. "Moon-god" has existed in many animist societies but it is Morey who combined two into one and the same deity. Others, like Jack Chic of Chick Publications of California and a few additional Islam-haters have picked up the Morey fabrication of moon-god, and are publishing tracts, brochures, flyers and comic books distributing them by the millions all over the world. These Islam-haters subscribe to the Nazi belief that if a lie is spoken loud enough and spoken repeatedly, it will be believed. Thus, Robert Morey, Jack Chick and others like them are disciples of the Nazis and are not ashamed of using the scare tactics of McCarthyism. Muslim leaders have met both of them and asked for the proof of their allegations; they had none but refused to cease their propaganda of lies and deception. For documentary evidence of Robert Morey’s fabrication of "Allah, the moon-god", see on Internet "Islamic Awareness" by Shabbir Ally.
Any intelligent reader, however much he may be ignorant of Islam, can see from the above quoted sixty plus verses of the Qur’an, that the moon is one of the creations of Allah. The moon is a tiny part of Allah’s universe.
Arab Christians and Arab Jews believe in Allah
Arabs include Christians and Jews who speak Arabic language as their mother tongue. In the Arabic language Bible the name "Allah" is written wherever "God" appears in the English language. The Arabic language Bible printed in the U.S. uses the name, Allah, on the first page of Genesis. Does this mean that the Christians also believe in "Allah, the moon-god" of Robert Morey and Jack Chic?
An Appeal
The reader of this brochure is requested to distribute this brochure to the widest possible audiences. Photocopies may be made and distributed to American people. You may obtain printed copies of this brochure and other brochures about Islam from the III&E for a small donation. Islam-haters are trying to widen the gap between the Muslims and their non-Muslim American brethren. The goal of anti-Islam demagogues is to create hate against the Muslim minority in the non-Muslim majority of America. Would you, as a decent human being allow it happen? The reader of this brochure is requested to bridge the gap between fellow Americans of different faiths by participating in the education of the American people about the correct faith of the Muslims.
Additional Reading
1. Muhammad Asad, translator, THE MESSAGE OF THE QUR’AN, Dar al-Andalus Limited, 3 Library Ramp, Gibralter.
2. Abdullah Yusuf Ali, translator, THE HOLY QUR’AN, Text, Translation and Commentary, Amana Corporation, 4411 41st Street, Brentwood, MD 220722.
3. Muhammad Marmaduke Pickthall, translator, THE GLORIOUS QUR’AN, various publishers.
4. Zafar Ishaq Ansari, translator, TOWARDS UNDERSTANDING THE QUR’AN, English rendering of Tafhim al-Qur’an by Sayyid Abul A’la Mawdudi, The Islamic Foundation, Leicester, U.K.
5. M. Amir Ali, A BIRD’S EYE VIEW OF ISLAMIC BELIEFS & PRACTICES, The Institute of Islamic Information & Education (III&E), Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A.
6. Brochures and booklets published by the III&E
7. There are many Internet sites. See www.iiie.net and links to others.
8. Isma’il Raji al Faruqi, TAWHID: ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR THOUGHT AND LIFE, International Institute of Islamic Thought (IIIT), Herndon, Virginia, U.S.A.
9. Hammudah Abdalati, ISLAM IN FOCUS, American Trust Publications, Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.A.
10. Suzanne Haneef, WHAT EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ISLAM AND MUSLIMS, Library of Islam, Des Plaines, Illinois, U.S.A.
by M. Amir Ali, Ph.D.
Allah is the name of the true One God in the Arabic language. In the Hebrew language His name is Eloh, Elohim for respect. It is well known that when a word is borrowed from one language to another it’s spelling and pronunciation is often altered. It is, therefore, reasonable to say that Eloh and Allah are names of the same Deity of Abraham believed by the three monotheistic religions of Judaism, Christianity and Islam. Islam is the most rigorously monotheistic religion among the three dedicated to the worship of Allah, never seen by a human eye.
Who is Allah? The translation of verses from the Qur’an are given to answer this question. References of the verses are given in brackets, the number before the colon represents the Surah (chapter) and the following number represents the verse number.
Allah, the One Only
1. "Proclaim: Allah is One. Allah is Eternal. He neither begets nor was begotten." (112:1-4)
2. "Nothing is like unto Him." (42:11)
3. "If there were therein Gods besides Allah, then verily both (the heavens and the earth) would have collapsed into disorder and chaos. Glorified be Allah, the Lord of the Throne, transcendent beyond all they ascribe unto Him." (21:22)
4. "Sight can never reach Him; His sight reaches all things." (6:103)
5. "And proclaim: Praise be to Allah, Who has not taken unto Himself a son, and Who has no partner in the Sovereignty, nor has He (need for) any protecting friend through dependence. (17:111)
6. "Allah! There is no God save Him." (3:2, 2:255)
7. "Is there any God beside Allah? Nay, but they are folk who ascribe equals (unto Him)! (27:60).
8. "Is there any God beside Allah? Nay, but most of them know not." (27:61)
Attributes of Allah
Muslims talk about ninety-nine attributes of Allah; a few are given in the following verses of the Qur’an.
1. "And He is the Mighty, the Wise. His is the Sovereignty of the heavens and the earth; He gives life and He gives death; and He is able to do all things. He is the First and the Last, and the Outward and the Inward; and He is the Knower of all things." (57:1-3)
2. "Allah is He, other than Whom there is no deity. He knows (all things) both secret and open; He, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. Allah is He, other than Whom there is no deity; the Sovereign, the Holy One, the Source of Peace (and Perfection), the Guardian of Faith, the Preserver of Safety, the Exalted in Might, the Irresistible, the Supreme: Glory to Allah! (High is He) above the partners they attribute to Him. He is Allah the Creator, the Evolver, the Bestower of Forms (and Colors). To Him belong the Most Beautiful Names: Whatever is the heavens and on earth, do declare His Praise and Glory; and He is exalted in Might, the Wise." (59:22-24)
3. "Allah! There is no God save Him, the Alive, the Eternal. Neither slumber nor sleep overtakes Him. Unto Him belongs whatsoever is in the heavens and whatsoever is in the earth. Who is he that intercedes with Him save by His permission? He knows that which is in front of them and that which is behind them, while they encompass nothing of His knowledge save what He will. His throne includes the heavens and the earth, and He is never weary of preserving them. He is the Sublime, the Tremendous." (2:255)
4. "The Originator of the heavens and the earth!" (6:101)
5. "The Beneficent, the Merciful: Owner of the Day of Judgment. (1:3-4)
6. "Say: Call upon Allah, or call upon Ar-Rahman: by whatever name you call upon Him, (it is well): For to Him belong the Most Beautiful Names." (17:110)
7. "And you seek the Grace of Allah: for Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (73:20)
8. "The revelation of this Book is from Allah, Exalted in Power, Full of Knowledge, Who forgives sin, accepts repentance, is strict in punishment, and has a long reach (in all things). There is no god but He: to Him is the Final Goal." (40:2-3)
Allah the Creator
1. "Have not those who disbelieve known that the heavens and the earth were of one piece, then We parted them, and We made every living thing from water? Will they not then believe?" (21:30)
[In this verse ‘We’ belongs to imperial language, not of plurality. In the Qur’an, Allah uses ‘I’, ‘Me’ ‘We’ and ‘Us’ for Himself.]
2. "And He it is Who created the night and the day, and the sun and the moon. They float each in an orbit… And from among His signs are the night and the day, and the sun and the moon. Prostrate not to the sun nor to the moon, but prostrate to Allah Who created them, if you (really) worship Him." (21:33, 41:37)
3. "He has created man: He has imparted unto him articulate thought and speech. [At His behest] the sun and the moon run their appointed courses; the stars and the trees prostrate themselves [before Him]. And the skies has He raised high, and has devised [for all things] a measure, so that you [too, O men,] might never transgress the measure [of what is right]: weigh, therefore, [your deeds] with equity, and cut not the measure short! (55:3-9)
4. "It is Allah Who created everything in the best of form…It is He Who created and perfected all things." (32:7, 87:2)
5. "It is Allah Who created life and death that you may prove yourself worthy in your deeds." (67:2)
6. "Such is Allah, your Lord. There is no god except Him, the Creator of all things, so serve Him. And He takes care of all things." (6:102)
7. "He is the Cleaver of the daybreak, and He has appointed the night for stillness, and the sun and the moon to run their appointed courses: [all] this is laid down by the Will of the Almighty, the All-Knowing. (6:96)
8. "Allah is He Who created seven heavens and of the earth a similar number. Through the midst of them (all) descends His command: that you may know that Allah has power over all things, and that Allah comprehends all things in (His) knowledge." (65:12)
9. "He it is Who has made the sun a [source of] radiant light and the moon shining [surface], and has determined for it phases so that you might know how to compute the years and to measure [time]. None of this has Allah created without [an inner] truth. Clearly does He spell out these messages unto people of [innate] knowledge." (10:5)
10. "Allah has indeed made all things in heaven and earth subservient to humankind; it is all from Him. Lo! Herein verily are portents for people who reflect." (45:13)
Allah, the Sustainer, the Cherisher, the Lord (Al-Rabb)
1. "All praise is due to Allah Alone, the Lord [the Sustainer, the Cherisher] of the worlds." (1:2)
2. "Everything We have created and prescribed for its measure, its character and destiny…No creature creeps on earth but Allah provides for it its sustenance. He knows its purpose and destiny. For it is He Who prescribed them in His eternal order…The sun rises and sets traversing its orbit exactly as the Almighty, the All Knowing has ordained. And the moon passes regularly through its phases, returning to its original thin crescent form. Neither sun nor moon overtakes the other; neither night nor day deviates from their preordained courses. Each moves in the orbit Allah has ordained for it. (54:49, 11:6, 36:38-40)
In the Qur’an, the name Allah is used more than 2,600 times and His attribute, Al-Rabb (the Lord, the Cherisher, the Sustainer), has been used over 1,000 times.
Allah Revealed the Truth – Option Given
1. "We revealed to you the Book in truth, that you may proclaim it to the world. Whoever decides to be guided by its guidance does so to his own credit. Whoever rejects its guidance does so to his own discredit and you are not a warder over them." (39:41)
2. "Let there be no compulsion [or coercion] in religion: Truth stands out clear from error; whoever rejects evil and believes in Allah has grasped the most trustworthy handhold that never breaks. And Allah hears and knows all things." (2:256)
3. "And say: The Truth [has now come] from your Lord: let, then him who wills, believe in it, and let him who wills, reject it." (18:29)
4. "And if your Lord willed, all who are in the earth would have believed together. Would you [Muhammad] compel men until they are believers?" (10:99)
5. "No person is responsible for the guilt of another. To every person belongs the merit or demerit of what he had wrought… Allah does not charge a person with more than he can bear. Therefore, to everyone belongs the credit or discredit which he had personally earned." (53:38-39, 2:286)
6. "Whoever guides himself by Our revelation does so to his own credit. Whoever goes astray does so to his own peril. Nobody will be responsible for another’s deeds, and We will not judge but after a messenger sent [to proclaim and warn] … Whoever does good will have that good reckoned for him. Whoever does evil will have that evil marked against him. Your Lord commits no injustice to His servants." (17:15, 41:46)
7. "Say: You are not accountable for our crimes; nor are we for the evil you do… On the Day of Judgment, no person will of any avail to another, neither for good nor for ill. Those who committed injustice will be assigned to the Fire which they denied." (34:25,42)
8. "Say: Are those who know equal with those who know not? But only men of understanding will pay heed." (39:9)
9. "There is not an animal in the earth nor a flying creature flying on two wings, but they are community like unto you. We have neglected nothing in the Book. Then unto their Lord they will be gathered." (6:38)
10. "Allah has made what is in the heavens and on the earth subservient to you… And He has made subservient to you the sun and the moon, predetermined in their orbits, and the day and the night… It is Allah Who made you His trustees on earth… Can you not see that Allah made all that is on earth subservient to you?" (14:33, 31:29, 35:39, 22:65)
Allah was the God-in-Chief of the Pagan Arabs
1. "If indeed you ask them (the pagan Arabs) who has created the heavens and the earth and subjected the sun and the moon (to His Law), they will certainly reply, ‘Allah’… And if indeed you ask them Who it is that sends down rain from the sky, and gives life therewith to the earth after its death, they will certainly reply, ‘Allah!’" (29:61,63; similar message is found in 31:25; 39:38; 43:9)
2. "And those unto whom they (the pagan Arabs) call instead of Him (Allah) possess no power of intercession, … And if you ask them who created them (gods of the pagans and pagans themselves), they will surely say, ‘Allah!’" (43:86,87)
Fabrications against Islam
In 1990, one of the most anti-Islam demagogues, named Robert Morey, published an anti-Islam book in which he claimed that Allah is the name of the moon-god, therefore, Islam is another old pagan religion. The claim that Allah is the moon god did not exist before the publication of Robert Morey’s book in 1990; apparently he is the originator of this idea. Allah is the name of the originator of the Universe who has a variety of names in various languages. "Moon-god" has existed in many animist societies but it is Morey who combined two into one and the same deity. Others, like Jack Chic of Chick Publications of California and a few additional Islam-haters have picked up the Morey fabrication of moon-god, and are publishing tracts, brochures, flyers and comic books distributing them by the millions all over the world. These Islam-haters subscribe to the Nazi belief that if a lie is spoken loud enough and spoken repeatedly, it will be believed. Thus, Robert Morey, Jack Chick and others like them are disciples of the Nazis and are not ashamed of using the scare tactics of McCarthyism. Muslim leaders have met both of them and asked for the proof of their allegations; they had none but refused to cease their propaganda of lies and deception. For documentary evidence of Robert Morey’s fabrication of "Allah, the moon-god", see on Internet "Islamic Awareness" by Shabbir Ally.
Any intelligent reader, however much he may be ignorant of Islam, can see from the above quoted sixty plus verses of the Qur’an, that the moon is one of the creations of Allah. The moon is a tiny part of Allah’s universe.
Arab Christians and Arab Jews believe in Allah
Arabs include Christians and Jews who speak Arabic language as their mother tongue. In the Arabic language Bible the name "Allah" is written wherever "God" appears in the English language. The Arabic language Bible printed in the U.S. uses the name, Allah, on the first page of Genesis. Does this mean that the Christians also believe in "Allah, the moon-god" of Robert Morey and Jack Chic?
An Appeal
The reader of this brochure is requested to distribute this brochure to the widest possible audiences. Photocopies may be made and distributed to American people. You may obtain printed copies of this brochure and other brochures about Islam from the III&E for a small donation. Islam-haters are trying to widen the gap between the Muslims and their non-Muslim American brethren. The goal of anti-Islam demagogues is to create hate against the Muslim minority in the non-Muslim majority of America. Would you, as a decent human being allow it happen? The reader of this brochure is requested to bridge the gap between fellow Americans of different faiths by participating in the education of the American people about the correct faith of the Muslims.
Additional Reading
1. Muhammad Asad, translator, THE MESSAGE OF THE QUR’AN, Dar al-Andalus Limited, 3 Library Ramp, Gibralter.
2. Abdullah Yusuf Ali, translator, THE HOLY QUR’AN, Text, Translation and Commentary, Amana Corporation, 4411 41st Street, Brentwood, MD 220722.
3. Muhammad Marmaduke Pickthall, translator, THE GLORIOUS QUR’AN, various publishers.
4. Zafar Ishaq Ansari, translator, TOWARDS UNDERSTANDING THE QUR’AN, English rendering of Tafhim al-Qur’an by Sayyid Abul A’la Mawdudi, The Islamic Foundation, Leicester, U.K.
5. M. Amir Ali, A BIRD’S EYE VIEW OF ISLAMIC BELIEFS & PRACTICES, The Institute of Islamic Information & Education (III&E), Chicago, Illinois, U.S.A.
6. Brochures and booklets published by the III&E
7. There are many Internet sites. See www.iiie.net and links to others.
8. Isma’il Raji al Faruqi, TAWHID: ITS IMPLICATIONS FOR THOUGHT AND LIFE, International Institute of Islamic Thought (IIIT), Herndon, Virginia, U.S.A.
9. Hammudah Abdalati, ISLAM IN FOCUS, American Trust Publications, Indianapolis, Indiana, U.S.A.
10. Suzanne Haneef, WHAT EVERYONE SHOULD KNOW ABOUT ISLAM AND MUSLIMS, Library of Islam, Des Plaines, Illinois, U.S.A.
Concept of God in Islam (Why Islam? brochure)
Every language has one or more terms that are used in reference to God and sometimes to lesser deities. This is not the case with the word Allah. Allah is the personal name of the One True God. Nothing else can be called Allah. The term has no plural or gender. This shows its exclusivity when compared to the word god which can be made plural, i.e. gods or feminine, i.e. goddess. It is interesting to note that Allah is the personal name of God in Aramaic, the language of Jesus (p). The word Allah is a reflection of the unique concept that Islam associates with God.
To a Muslim, Allah is the Almighty, Creator and Sustainer of the universe, who is similar to none and nothing is comparable to Him. The Prophet Muhammad (p) was asked by his contemporaries about Allah. The answer came directly from God Himself in the form of a short chapter of the Quran that is considered the essence of the Unity of God or the motto of monotheism. Say: He is Allah, the One; Allah, the Eternal, Absolute; He begetteth not, nor is He begotten, and there is none like unto Him. [Al-Quran 112:1-4]
Some non-Muslims allege that the concept of God in Islam is that of a stern and cruel God who demands to be obeyed fully. He is not loving and kind. Nothing can be farther from the truth than this allegation. It is enough to know that with the exception of one, each of the 114 chapters of the Quran begins with the verse: In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful In one of the sayings of Prophet Muhammad (p) we are told: God is more loving and kinder than a mother to her dear child.
Besides being Merciful, God is Just too. Hence evildoers and sinners must have their share of punishment and the virtuous their rightful reward. Actually, Gods attribute of Mercy has full manifestation in His attribute of Justice. People suffering throughout their lives for His sake and people oppressing and exploiting other people all their lives should not receive similar treatment from their Lord. Expecting similar treatment for them will amount to negating the very belief in the accountability in the Hereafter and thereby negating all the incentives for a moral and virtuous life in this world.
The following verses from the Quran are very clear and straightforward: Verily, for the righteous are Gardens of delight in the Presence of their Lord. Shall we then treat the people of Faith like the people of Sin? What is the matter with you? How judge you? [Al-Quran 68:34-36]
Islam rejects characterizing God in any human form or depicting him as favoring certain individuals or nations on the basis of wealth, power or race. He created the human beings as equals. They may distinguish themselves and earn His favor through virtue and piety alone.
The concept that God rested on the seventh day of creation, that God wrestled with one of His soldiers, that God is an envious plotter against mankind, or that God is incarnate in any human being are considered blasphemy from the Islamic point of view. The unique usage of Allah as the personal name of God is a reflection of Islam's emphasis on the purity of the belief in God. This belief in the Unity of God, is the essence of the message of all the Prophets of God. Because of this, Islam considers associating any deity or personality with God as a grave sin that God will never forgive if the person dies without repenting.
The Creator must be of a different nature from the things created because if He is of the same nature as they are, He will be temporal and will therefore need a maker. It follows that nothing is like Him. If the maker is not temporal, then He must be eternal. But if he is eternal, He cannot be caused, and if nothing caused Him to come into existence, nothing outside Him causes Him to continue to exist, which means that He must be self-sufficient. And if He does not depend on anything for the continuance of His own existence, then this existence can have no end. The Creator is therefore eternal: He is the First and the Last, the Evident and the Immanent: and He has full knowledge of all things. [Al-Quran 57:3]
He is self-sufficient or self-subsistent or, to use a Quranic term, He is Al-Qayyum. The Creator does not create only in the sense of bringing things into existence. He also preserves them and takes them out of existence and is the ultimate cause of whatever happens to them.
1. Allah is the Creator of all things, and He is the Guardian and Disposer of all affairs. To Him belong the keys of the heavens and the earth: and those who reject the Signs of Allah,- it is they who will be in loss. [Al-Quran 39:62-63]
2. There is no moving creature on earth but its sustenance dependeth on Allah: He knoweth the time and place of its definite abode and its temporary deposit: All is in a clear Record. [Al-Quran 57:3]
Gods Attributes
If the Creator is Eternal and Everlasting, then His attributes must also be Eternal and Everlasting. He should not lose any of His attributes nor acquire new ones. If this is so, then His attributes are absolute. Can there be more than one Creator with such absolute attributes? Can there be for example, two absolutely powerful Creators? A moments thought shows that this is not feasible. The Quran summarizes this argument in the following verses:
No son did Allah beget, nor is there any god along with Him: (if there were many gods), behold, each god would have taken away what he had created, and some would have lorded it over others! Glory to Allah! (He is free) from the (sort of) things they attribute to Him! [Al-Quran 23:91]
The oneness of God
The Quran reminds us of the falsity of all alleged gods. To the worshippers of man-made objects it asks:
1. Worship ye that which ye have (yourselves) carved? But Allah has created you and your handwork. [Al-Quran 37:95-96]
2. Say: Do ye then take (for worship) protectors other than Him, such as have no power either for good or for harm to themselves?" [Al-Quran 13:16]
3. To the worshippers of heavenly bodies it cites the story of Abraham: When the night covered him over, He saw a star: He said: This is my Lord. But when it set, He said: I love not those that set. When he saw the moon rising in splendor, he said: This is my Lord. But when the moon set, He said: unless my Lord guide me, I shall surely be among those who go astray. When he saw the sun rising in splendor, he said: This is my Lord; this is the greatest (of all). But when the sun set, he said: O my people! I am indeed free from your (guilt) of giving partners to Allah. For me, I have set my face, firmly and truly, towards Him Who created the heavens and the earth, and never shall I give partners to Allah." [Al-Quran 6:76-79]
The Believers Attitude
In order to be a Muslim (i.e., to submit oneself to God), it is necessary to believe in the Oneness of God, in the sense of His being the only Creator, Preserver, Nourisher, etc. But this belief, later on called Tawhid Ar-Rububiyyah, is not enough. Many of the idolaters knew and believed that only the Supreme God could do all this. To acquire Tawhid Ar-Rububiyyah one must add Tawhid Al-Uluhiyyah, i.e. one acknowledges the fact that it is God alone who deserves to be worshipped, and thus abstains from worshipping any other thing or being.
Having achieved this knowledge of the One True God, man should constantly have faith in Him, and should allow nothing to induce him to deny the truth. When true faith enters a persons heart, it impacts the persons outlook and behavior. The Prophet said, Faith is that which resides firmly in the heart and which is proved by deeds. One of the striking results of faith is the feeling of gratitude towards God, which could be said to be the essence of Ibada (worship). The feeling of gratitude is so important that anyone denying the Truth is called kafir, one who is ungrateful. A believer loves, and is grateful to God for the bounties He bestowed upon him. He is aware of the fact that his good deeds are far from being commensurate with Divine favors, and therefore he is always anxious to please God. He remembers God often. The Quran promotes this feeling of gratitude by repeating the attributes of God very frequently.
Allah is He, than Whom there is no other god; Who knows (all things) both secret and open; He, Most Gracious, Most Merciful. Allah is He, than Whom there is no other god; the Sovereign, the Holy One, the Source of Peace (and Perfection), the Guardian of Faith, the Preserver of Safety, the Exalted in Might, the Irresistible, the Supreme: Glory to Allah! (High is He) above the partners they attribute to Him. He is Allah, the Creator, the Evolver, the Bestower of Forms (or Colors). To Him belong the Most Beautiful Names: whatever is in the heavens and on earth, doth declare His Praises and Glory: and He is the Exalted in Might, the Wise. [Al-Quran 59:22-24]
Allah! There is no god but He, the Living, the Self-subsisting, Eternal. No slumber can seize Him nor sleep. His are all things in the heavens and on earth. Who is there can intercede in His presence except as He permitteth? He knoweth what (appeareth to His creatures as) before or after or behind them. Nor shall they compass aught of His knowledge except as He willeth. His Throne doth extend over the heavens and the earth, and He feeleth no fatigue in guarding and preserving them for He is the Most High, the Supreme (in glory). [Al-Quran 2:255]
O People of the Book! Commit no excesses in your religion: Nor say of Allah aught but the truth. Christ Jesus the son of Mary was (no more than) a messenger of Allah, and His Word, which He bestowed on Mary, and a spirit proceeding from Him: so believe in Allah and His messengers. Say not Trinity : desist: it will be better for you: for Allah is one Allah: Glory be to Him: (far exalted is He) above having a son. To Him belong all things in the heavens and on earth. And enough is Allah as a Disposer of affairs. [Al-Quran 4:171]
[Source : WAMY2 Series on Islam]
1 (p) here stands for peace be upon him
2 World Assembly of Muslim Youth
Monday, August 17, 2009
Friday, August 14, 2009
Thursday, August 13, 2009
About Islam (IISNA pamphlet)
Belief and Worship of The One True God is the cornerstone of a Muslim’s belief.
Many religions also claim belief in One God however, they associate partners with Him. The following are examples:
1. Worshipping or asking forgiveness of God through His creation
2. Delegating some of God’s attributes to other objects or beings
3. Setting up rivals with God by elevating something to be in opposition to Him
The above mentioned beliefs or actions all go against the very principles of Islam.
About Allah
Allah is the personal name of the One True God.
The name “Allah” is the combination of two Arabic words, “Al” and “ilah”. “Al” means “The”, and “ilah” means “God”. These two words come together and refer to “The God”, which implies “The Only God”, or “The Only True God”.
Nothing else can be called Allah. The term has no plural or gender. This shows its uniqueness when compared with the word “god” which can be made plural (i.e. gods) or feminine (i.e. goddess). Muslims believe that Allah is:
The One:
1. Allah is one and has no partners at all
2. Allah has no equals or associates
3. Islam rejects characterizing Allah in any human form
4. None of His creation resembles Him
5. There is nothing comparable to Allah
6. No part of Allah is present in anyone (although his knowledge encompasses everything)
The Praiseworthy:
1. No being or object is worthy to be worshipped except Allah
2. Any worship and prayers directed towards (or through) saints, prophets, other human beings or nature is considered idolatry
3. Allah hears all who praise Him
4. Everyone has direct access to Allah
5. Muslims have a direct connection with Allah without the need for any intermediaries [such as idols, saints, angels, priests, planets, Jesus (peace be upon him), animals, graves or statues]
The All-Just:
1. Allah judges everyone based on their own deeds and everyone is accountable for his/her own actions
2. Humans may distinguish themselves and earn Allah's favor through virtue and piety only (not through race or wealth)
The Most High:
1. Allah is over His creation separated from his creatures
2. Allah is high above being compared to anything
The All-Merciful:
1. Allah is incomparably more merciful to His creation than a mother to her baby
2. No one is “born into sin”
3. Allah forgives all sins
The All-Powerful:
1. Allah has no rivals
2. The concept that Allah rested on the 7th day of creation has no basis in Islam
3. Allah has control over everything
4. Obedience to Allah does not increase His Power, and disobedience to Allah does not decrease His Power in any way
5. Not a leaf falls without the permission of Allah
To truly ponder the majesty of Allah makes one humble. This is what Allah calls us to do - to know Him through His attributes and names, realize His Omnipotence and Majesty, call upon Him, and humble ourselves to Him. Allah’s beautiful names and attributes also include:
1. The Creator and Sustainer
2. The Forgiver and Pardoner
3. The Appreciative
4. The All-Knower and All-Aware
5. The One who answers the one in need if he asks Him
6. The One free and far removed from any deficiency
7. The incomparably Great
About the Qur'an
Muslims believe that the Qur’an is the literal word of God (1). Together with the authentic sayings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), it is the main source of Islamic knowledge. The following are some verses that confirm what has been discussed:
1. “Allah is He, other than Whom there is no other god.” Qur’an 59:22
2. “And worship Allah and associate none with Him.” Qur’an 4:36
3. “So set no equals to Allah while you know (there is none equal to him).” Qur’an 2:22
4. “Say: ‘How do you worship besides Allah something which has no power either to harm or benefit you?" Qur’an 5:76
5. “There is nothing like Him and He hears and sees all things.” Qur’an 42:11
6. “Your Lord says: ‘Call upon Me, I will answer you.” Qur’an 40:60
About Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
Muslims believe that Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the final Prophet in a long chain of Prophets sent to call the people to the obedience and worship of God alone. Some of these Prophets include Adam, Noah, Joseph, Jacob, Abraham, David, Jesus and Moses (peace be upon them all).
Muslims do not worship or ask divine guidance of Muhammad (peace be upon him). He warned: “Do not exceed bounds in praising me as the Christians do in praising Jesus, Son of Mary. I am only the Lord’s servant; then call me the Servant of Allah and His Messenger.”
Just as Muslims believe that Moses (peace be upon him) was sent with the Torah (2) and that Jesus (peace be upon him) was sent with the Gospel (3), Muslims also believe that Muhammad (peace be upon him) was sent with The Qur’an to demonstrate how its teachings should be applied.
Some sayings of the Prophet (peace be upon him) include:
1. “Among the best of you are they who have the best character.”
2. “Allah will not show mercy to him who does not show mercy to others.”
3. “The strong is not the one who overcomes the people by his strength but the strong is the one who controls himself while in anger.”
4. “Look at the person who is below you; and do not look at one who is superior to you. Thereby you would be able to better appreciate the favors that God has bestowed upon you.”
5. “Do not consider even the smallest good deed as insignificant; even meeting your brother with a cheerful face.”
6. “Be humble and do not harm or consider yourself superior to others.”
About Worship
We have established that Islam teaches that only God alone deserves worship. So what is worship?
Muslim scholars have defined “worship” as, “An all-inclusive term for those internal and external sayings and actions of a person that are pleasing to Allah.”
In other words, the concept of worship in Islam is not limited to rituals such as praying, fasting, giving charity, and performing pilgrimage - it is much more.
A person can turn everyday activities into acts of worship by purifying his or her intention and sincerely seeking Allah’s pleasure through these activities. Allah’s Messenger (may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Greeting a person is charity. Acting justly is charity. Helping a man with his horse is charity. A good word is charity. Every step taken on the way to performing prayers is charity. Removing an obstacle from the road is charity.”
Even earning a living can be done for the sake of God if done for the right reasons (e.g. working to support a family). If however one works to show off or earn fame then this can not be considered worship.
The above might sound strange to those who view religion only as a personal relation between the individual and God and as having no impact on those activities that are not connected specifically with any religious rituals. For Muslims however, Islam is not just a religion, but a complete way of life.
-----
1. Any Quranic translation, either in English or any other language, is neither a Qur’an, nor a version of the Qur’an, but rather it is only a translation of the meaning of the Qur’an. The Qur’an exists only in the Arabic in which it was revealed.
2,3. Only the Qur’an has remained unchanged and preserved, while the other original revelations have been lost or corrupted.
Many religions also claim belief in One God however, they associate partners with Him. The following are examples:
1. Worshipping or asking forgiveness of God through His creation
2. Delegating some of God’s attributes to other objects or beings
3. Setting up rivals with God by elevating something to be in opposition to Him
The above mentioned beliefs or actions all go against the very principles of Islam.
About Allah
Allah is the personal name of the One True God.
The name “Allah” is the combination of two Arabic words, “Al” and “ilah”. “Al” means “The”, and “ilah” means “God”. These two words come together and refer to “The God”, which implies “The Only God”, or “The Only True God”.
Nothing else can be called Allah. The term has no plural or gender. This shows its uniqueness when compared with the word “god” which can be made plural (i.e. gods) or feminine (i.e. goddess). Muslims believe that Allah is:
The One:
1. Allah is one and has no partners at all
2. Allah has no equals or associates
3. Islam rejects characterizing Allah in any human form
4. None of His creation resembles Him
5. There is nothing comparable to Allah
6. No part of Allah is present in anyone (although his knowledge encompasses everything)
The Praiseworthy:
1. No being or object is worthy to be worshipped except Allah
2. Any worship and prayers directed towards (or through) saints, prophets, other human beings or nature is considered idolatry
3. Allah hears all who praise Him
4. Everyone has direct access to Allah
5. Muslims have a direct connection with Allah without the need for any intermediaries [such as idols, saints, angels, priests, planets, Jesus (peace be upon him), animals, graves or statues]
The All-Just:
1. Allah judges everyone based on their own deeds and everyone is accountable for his/her own actions
2. Humans may distinguish themselves and earn Allah's favor through virtue and piety only (not through race or wealth)
The Most High:
1. Allah is over His creation separated from his creatures
2. Allah is high above being compared to anything
The All-Merciful:
1. Allah is incomparably more merciful to His creation than a mother to her baby
2. No one is “born into sin”
3. Allah forgives all sins
The All-Powerful:
1. Allah has no rivals
2. The concept that Allah rested on the 7th day of creation has no basis in Islam
3. Allah has control over everything
4. Obedience to Allah does not increase His Power, and disobedience to Allah does not decrease His Power in any way
5. Not a leaf falls without the permission of Allah
To truly ponder the majesty of Allah makes one humble. This is what Allah calls us to do - to know Him through His attributes and names, realize His Omnipotence and Majesty, call upon Him, and humble ourselves to Him. Allah’s beautiful names and attributes also include:
1. The Creator and Sustainer
2. The Forgiver and Pardoner
3. The Appreciative
4. The All-Knower and All-Aware
5. The One who answers the one in need if he asks Him
6. The One free and far removed from any deficiency
7. The incomparably Great
About the Qur'an
Muslims believe that the Qur’an is the literal word of God (1). Together with the authentic sayings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), it is the main source of Islamic knowledge. The following are some verses that confirm what has been discussed:
1. “Allah is He, other than Whom there is no other god.” Qur’an 59:22
2. “And worship Allah and associate none with Him.” Qur’an 4:36
3. “So set no equals to Allah while you know (there is none equal to him).” Qur’an 2:22
4. “Say: ‘How do you worship besides Allah something which has no power either to harm or benefit you?" Qur’an 5:76
5. “There is nothing like Him and He hears and sees all things.” Qur’an 42:11
6. “Your Lord says: ‘Call upon Me, I will answer you.” Qur’an 40:60
About Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him)
Muslims believe that Muhammad (peace be upon him) is the final Prophet in a long chain of Prophets sent to call the people to the obedience and worship of God alone. Some of these Prophets include Adam, Noah, Joseph, Jacob, Abraham, David, Jesus and Moses (peace be upon them all).
Muslims do not worship or ask divine guidance of Muhammad (peace be upon him). He warned: “Do not exceed bounds in praising me as the Christians do in praising Jesus, Son of Mary. I am only the Lord’s servant; then call me the Servant of Allah and His Messenger.”
Just as Muslims believe that Moses (peace be upon him) was sent with the Torah (2) and that Jesus (peace be upon him) was sent with the Gospel (3), Muslims also believe that Muhammad (peace be upon him) was sent with The Qur’an to demonstrate how its teachings should be applied.
Some sayings of the Prophet (peace be upon him) include:
1. “Among the best of you are they who have the best character.”
2. “Allah will not show mercy to him who does not show mercy to others.”
3. “The strong is not the one who overcomes the people by his strength but the strong is the one who controls himself while in anger.”
4. “Look at the person who is below you; and do not look at one who is superior to you. Thereby you would be able to better appreciate the favors that God has bestowed upon you.”
5. “Do not consider even the smallest good deed as insignificant; even meeting your brother with a cheerful face.”
6. “Be humble and do not harm or consider yourself superior to others.”
About Worship
We have established that Islam teaches that only God alone deserves worship. So what is worship?
Muslim scholars have defined “worship” as, “An all-inclusive term for those internal and external sayings and actions of a person that are pleasing to Allah.”
In other words, the concept of worship in Islam is not limited to rituals such as praying, fasting, giving charity, and performing pilgrimage - it is much more.
A person can turn everyday activities into acts of worship by purifying his or her intention and sincerely seeking Allah’s pleasure through these activities. Allah’s Messenger (may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Greeting a person is charity. Acting justly is charity. Helping a man with his horse is charity. A good word is charity. Every step taken on the way to performing prayers is charity. Removing an obstacle from the road is charity.”
Even earning a living can be done for the sake of God if done for the right reasons (e.g. working to support a family). If however one works to show off or earn fame then this can not be considered worship.
The above might sound strange to those who view religion only as a personal relation between the individual and God and as having no impact on those activities that are not connected specifically with any religious rituals. For Muslims however, Islam is not just a religion, but a complete way of life.
-----
1. Any Quranic translation, either in English or any other language, is neither a Qur’an, nor a version of the Qur’an, but rather it is only a translation of the meaning of the Qur’an. The Qur’an exists only in the Arabic in which it was revealed.
2,3. Only the Qur’an has remained unchanged and preserved, while the other original revelations have been lost or corrupted.
Tuesday, August 11, 2009
The Fog is Lifting (8 Parts)
Film Synopsis
Unreliable sources have made Islam by far the most misunderstood religion in the world.
The Fog is Lifting is a series of documentaries that challenges your knowledge about the Islamic faith and traditions.
In this DVD titled Islam in Brief - the first part of The Fog is Lifting- you will learn in 74 minutes more information than what you can acquire in 74 days of reading.
For the viewers convenience, the Film consists of ten chapters; each one deals with one or more specific concept, belief or ritual, even though it is recommended to watch the chapters in order.
Chapter One: The Meaning of Islam; An explanation of the meaning of the word Islam linguistically and idiomatically, and explains why the word Muslim in Arabic doesnt mean literally a follower of Prophet Muhammad.
Chapter Two: Does God exist? Challenging Atheism and proving the concept of Intelligent Design, as well as comparing the words of Philosophers with the words of the Quran.
Chapter Three: Islamic Perspectives; Some Muslim parents tried to force their Jewish sons to convert to Islam, what was the position of the Quran? In this Chapter there is an explanation of the Islamic perception on Original Goodness, Freedom of Choice and equality.
The Six Beliefs
Chapter Four: Islamic Beliefs 1; Is Allah the God of Muslims alone? Or Is Allah the God of non Muslims like Jews and Christians as well?
Chapter Five: Islamic Beliefs 2; an explanation of the Muslims beliefs in the Angels, and the Scriptures of God, including the Quranic position from the Torah and the Gospel, you will also listen to the Quran recited in Arabic.
Chapter Six: Islam and Science; an amazing presentation of the position of science in Islam, and of few scientific miracles of the Quran.
Chapter Seven: Islamic Beliefs 3; what do Muslims believe about messengers, about Jesus Christ and about Muhammad?
Chapter Eight: Islamic Beliefs 4; an explanation of the Islamic Beliefs on resurrection and on Divine Destiny.
The Five Pillars of Islam
Chapter Nine: Pillars of Islam 1; an explanation of the real meanings of the Shahada (testimony of faith), and the ways of communication with Allah.
Chapter Ten: Pillars of Islam 2; how much do Muslims pay as a financial obligation and to whom? What makes a Muslim fasts and abstain from the lawful including eating and drinking for about 15 hours a day in Ramadan, The power of Hajj (Pilgrimage) in changing people highlighting the experience of Malcolm X.
Islam in Brief is originally a power point presentation given by Fadel Soliman-the author of the film- to over 40,000 non Muslims all over the globe in Churches, universities, conferences and government agencies, etc
Islam: a Religion of Peace or War? is the title of Part II of The Fog is Lifting is planned to be out in 2008, focusing on the concept of Jihad and contemporary worlds problems like terrorism and fanaticism.
Monday, August 10, 2009
Introduction to Islamic Beliefs and Practices (III&E brochure)
7 basic beliefs and 7 basic practices
by M. Amir Ali, Ph.D.
The approach to the presentation of Islamic beliefs and practices depends upon the addressee's religion and culture. A reference point of commonalty or contrast is useful. For example, the Christians believe in the "original sin"; the connotation is that a human being has the stigma of being born as a sinner and is dirty filthy by nature. What has a newborn done to be a sinner or to be a filthy person? Contrast this with the Islamic teaching that every human being is born in nature, meaning good with no stigma of any kind and, if left alone without any brain washing will do no wrong. Such a person has a natural ability to distinguish between right and wrong and his tendency is to do right. In the society which raises a person brain washed, many times when he reaches puberty he is all confused – good has become bad and bad has become good under the influence of the society. He was not dirty by birth but the society has made him dirty in beliefs and practices.
Purification
When clothes get dirty, they are washed; when the body gets dirty, a bath or a shower is in order. Similarly, when beliefs and practices have become dirty, a purification job is in order and this purification is the entry into Islam through the door of witnessing or shahadah. Once a person has entered Islam he is purified as a newborn and has a second chance to start over again. His past sins are washed away while keeping his good works as assets.
Analogy of a Building
There are two aspects of purification: (a) physical, and (b) spiritual. Physical purification consists of purifying the body, clothes and environment. Spiritual purification consists of purifying beliefs and practices (works or deeds). The analogy of Islam is that of a building. A building has its foundation, pillars, roof, walls and other components. The foundation of a building is underground and not visible; similarly, the foundation of Islam consists of beliefs and remains invisible. The pillars, walls, roof and other parts of a building are visible. Similarly, what a Muslim says and does is visible and becomes the pillars, roof and walls of Islam. Frequently, Muslims talk about the five pillars of Islam without thinking that five pillars cannot stand without a foundation and only pillars standing on the ground are not called a building. It is, therefore, necessary that Islam be presented in its totality not just five pillars. Five pillars are a necessary but small part of a Muslim's life.
Beliefs as the Foundation of Islam
As the foundation of a building consists of many components, such as, steel, cement, rocks, etc., the foundation of Islam consists of seven components.
1. Allah, the Only True God
Nothing is made without its planner and maker. Similarly, this universe, the earth and life on it, did not happen by itself - the first cause is the Creator, Allah or the God. Allah is the Creator of life and death, hence He is free of death and is Ever Living or Eternal. He created males and females for procreation, hence He is free of gender. Whatever He created He knows in its minutest detail, hence He is All-Knowing. Similarly, He is All-Seeing, All-Hearing, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful, Forgiving, Just; He has many attributes or good names – Muslims are told that He has ninety-nine names. All of His names are not abstract words but they have relevance in every Muslim's life. He created everything and humankind for a purpose: to serve Him. The God, in Islam, is the bedrock of the foundation of Islam.
2. Prophets and Messengers
Only Allah can tell the purpose of the creation of humankind which He does through his chosen human beings called prophets and messengers. Islam recognizes many prophets of the Bible, such as, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus and many in between them. Muhammad Ibn Abd-Allah Ibn Abd-al Muttalib was the last prophet-messenger of Allah who lived fourteen centuries ago. He received guidance from Allah, gave its meaning in words and deeds, thus becoming the role model for humankind.
3. The Guidance from Allah
When one accepts a new job he is given a job description and someone shows him how to do various tasks. Similarly, Allah gives the job description in His revelations and the Prophet shows the meaning and implementation of what and how. All the prophets of the Bible fulfilled their duties and the last prophet, Muhammad, did also. He left behind the Word of Allah, the Qur'an, and his teachings, Hadith, were collected by his companions. The Qur'an and the Hadith are the textual sources of Islamic teachings and will remain so as long as there is life on earth. Allah Himself has taken the responsibility for their preservation.
4. The Angels
Another creation of Allah, scattered all over the universe doing the work for Him, is angels. Human beings have been given very little knowledge about angels. One much honored angel, Gabriel or Jibrail, brought Allah's guidance to the prophets. Along with other angels mentioned in the Qur'an there are two angels with each human being writing his deeds.
5. The Last Day
Allah has created everything with a preset life span. Everything and everyone, from the moment of creation, are running towards its destruction or death. Modern sciences have arrived at the same conclusion. Science tells us that the solar system is middle-aged; when sun arrives at the moment of its death, that will be the end of its planets, including the earth. Similarly, the whole universe has its life span and there will be a Big Crush, the opposite of the Big Bang.
The last day for each human being is the day of his/her death, as there is a last day for life on earth. On the last day of the earth, there will be earthquakes, mountains will either be rendered to sand or will float in space like carded wool, water of the oceans will either be sucked into the earth or will boil away and the valleys thus created will be filled with earth or rocks. The earth will become smooth without mountains or valleys with no life on it. However, this is not the end of human beings. There is life hereafter or the after life.
6. The Life Hereafter
Allah is Just but there is much injustice on earth. Murderers are getting away with murders, embezzlers are getting away with their loot, dictators are getting away with their oppression and injustices, and other criminals are getting away with their crimes. Are they really getting away with their crimes? No, it only appears that way. Everyone will be accountable for his deeds to Allah on the Day of Judgment and will receive reward or punishment. The life of the earth is the life of trials, not the place of real reward or punishment. This leads to the reality of Life Hereafter. After destruction of life on earth Allah will command human beings to come back to life with body and soul, their resurrection. Resurrection is followed by the judgment by Allah. No judgment is complete without reward for good doers and punishment for evil livers. The reward is the life of paradise and punishment is the life of hell. Both are believed to be eternal.
7. Al Qadr (Measure, Destiny, Decree)
People are created as males and females, short or tall, black, white, brown, yellow, smart or not so smart, with appointed parents, having a given time and place of birth and death and so on. All this is decreed by Allah. However, human beings have choices and enjoy limited freedom. The result of their activities depends upon their level of knowledge, level of effort and permission of Allah to succeed. Since human beings do not have perfect knowledge, sometimes they succeed and other times they fail in their pursuits. The admission that only Allah has perfect knowledge and human knowledge is imperfect and practical implications of this admission is Qadr.
Works and Deeds as the Building of Islam Above Ground
The visible part of a building is whatever exists above ground built on a stable foundation. Similarly, a Muslim's life, his talk and his activities must represent his beliefs. They are summarized below.
Five Rites (Acts) of Worship
The term worship has two aspects: (a) Love for Allah more than the love for anyone or anything in life, including the love of one's own life. It simply means that one is willing to give up anyone or anything for the love for Allah. (b) Obedience of Allah and His Messenger for the love of them. If one looks for worldly benefits in obedience of Allah or desires to avoid worldly harm by obeying, then it is for business not for the love of Allah. Five rites of worship are given below.
1. Shahadah, Witnessing
If one believes in the seven aspects of beliefs and is willing to live his life accordingly, he declares his intention voluntarily and publicly or at least in front of two or more witnesses. Such declaration consists of pronouncing, "La Ilaha illa-Allah wa Muhammadur-Rasool-Allah" meaning there is no deity but Allah and Muhammad is His Messenger. This pronouncement has the connotation that my Creator, Provider and Sustainer Lord is Allah and I have been brought to this world by Allah to serve Him for which I will be accountable on the Day of Judgment. The Messenger of Allah, Muhammad(S), brought the guidance from Allah, delivered to me and became a role model for me, therefore, I am going to live by the Qur'an and Sunnah (the way of the Messenger of Allah, Muhammad(S)).
2. Salah, Prescribed Prayers
Once a person takes shahadah, he is a Muslim and is required to perform the five daily prescribed prayers. In prayers a person addresses Allah directly without any intermediary or intercessor. Islam is the only religion in the world which has removed all kinds of intermediaries and intercessors between man and Allah.
3. Zakah, Wealth Cleansing Tax
The basic principle is that Allah is the owner of heavens and the earth, therefore, He is my owner and everything in my possession belongs to Him. I am only a trustee of Allah for anything in my possession. I must do whatever Allah requires me to do. Allah demands that when a certain amount of money is in one's possession for a year, a small percentage (typically 2.5%) must be spent for Allah's causes. In general, collection of Zakah is spent to help the poor and needy and other Islamic causes.
4. Sawm, Fasting in the Month of Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month of Islamic lunar calendar. During this month Muslims are required to fast from dawn to dusk, meaning not to eat, drink, smoke or indulge in sex. After sunset all lawful food, drink and sex are allowed. However, one must implement the moral code of Islam very strictly because non-adherence has double jeopardy, namely, violating the moral code and nullification of the fast. The fast is a test of one's sincerity to Allah.
5. Hajj, Pilgrimage to Makkah
A Muslim must perform Hajj once in a life time provided expenses can be met without borrowing or owing any money to anyone, health is good and the way is safe. Hajj is the re-creation of some of the trials and tribulations of Prophets Abraham and Ishmael, and Hagar, the wife of Abraham, with a few additional rituals. The Hajj lasts for five days from the 8th to 12th of Dhul Hijjah. Approximately two million people perform Hajj every year.
Significance of the Pillars
The above mentioned five rites of worship are also called the five pillars of Islam. Pillars are supporters of roofs and walls. If the pillars fall down there is no building left. Similarly, if a Muslim is not doing his five daily salah, this pillar is absent from his building of Islam and part of the building is destroyed. He may claim to be a Muslim but in practice he is a hypocrite. The same analogy is applied to other pillars.
Excellence in Knowledge and Conduct
A good believing and practicing Muslim is a role model for the people and the Muslim Ummah is the role model for all other societies. A Muslim scientist must be the best among his peers, a doctor must be the best, a car mechanic must be the best and so on. A role model must excel in all aspects of his life, that is, in knowledge, profession, on the job, in his moral character and honoring other people's rights. Most importantly he must excel in his service to his Lord, Allah.
Islamic Moral Code, Enjoining Good and Forbidding Evil
Islam requires Muslims to be righteous, truthful, fulfill their promises, be courteous, gentle in disagreements, have humility, keep the trust and keep all other well known virtues. Naturally, Islam condemns the immoral and criminal acts of lying, cheating, backbiting, slandering, breaking promises, breaching the trust, arrogance, haughtiness, and all other well known vices. It is not enough to stay away from vices and adopt all virtues but he has a duty to promote the same good in the society and do everything possible to stop evil and vice.
Fulfill the Duty to Others
There are mutual rights and duties. However, Allah will not ask on the Day of Judgment if you have received all your rights but He will ask if you have done all your duties. Human duties fall under four categories:
1. Duty to Allah
The first and foremost duty is to Allah. There are three duties to Allah, (a) not to associate partners with Him, (b) not to worship anyone but Allah, and (c) not to depend upon anyone for help but Allah.
2. Duty to Other Human Beings
Whenever there is interaction with another person there are mutual rights and duties. One person's rights are other person's duties. There are duties to parents, spouse, children, relatives, neighbors, buyers, sellers, ruler, ruled, boss, subordinates and so on.
3. Community Duty
There is a duty to defend the family, the country and the community as a whole. In addition there are people who cannot provide for themselves, such as, the poor, orphans, widows, handicapped, refugees and others whom a single person cannot support fully but the community as a whole can. Every Muslim should be a part of such a support system. Every human being has five basic rights, namely, food, clothing, shelter, education and health maintenance; every Muslim should be part of the system providing basic rights to all those who cannot provide for themselves.
4. Duty to Manage the Earth
Allah has appointed man Khalifah on the earth, meaning that man is a trustee or manager of the earth for the owner, Allah. Humankind, in general, and Muslims, in particular, have the duty to see that the resources of the earth are not abused: air and water are not polluted, animals are not killed for fun or for greedy people, trees are not cut down unnecessarily and so on. Use resources of the earth but do not abuse them.
Lawful (Halal) and Unlawful (Haram)
This is a part of Islamic Shari'ah, civil and criminal law. Every Muslim is not going to be an Islamic lawyer or a judge, but he should know about a few unlawful things. The basic principle is that everything is lawful except those things which are explicitly unlawful. A few things are doubtful therefore it is advisable to avoid them. The unlawful things fall under four categories.
1. Food and Drink
There are a number of things which have been forbidden as food and drink, such as, flesh of swine, blood, anything offered in the name of anyone other than Allah, flesh of dead animals, carnivorous animals, birds of prey, all intoxicants including alcoholic liquor and drugs of abuse and anything poisonous to humans.
2. Sources of Income
Any business involving production, distribution or sale of unlawful food or drinks is unlawful. In addition, all trades of exploitation or taking others rights away are unlawful, such as, prostitution, gambling, usury and interest, stealing, robbery, embezzlement, monopolizing and hoarding to raise prices and others.
3. Spending the Wealth
It has been mentioned that all wealth is owned by Allah and human beings are trustees for whatever they possess. It is, therefore, necessary that Allah's wealth not be spent wherever Allah does not desire it to be spent. A few examples of such unlawful areas are already given above. One person's spending is another person's source of income. Additional unlawful areas are spending money on unlawful food and drinks to serve others.
4. Sexual Relations
A simple principle is no sex without marriage. An engagement is a social custom not a religious rite. A person closest in blood relation lawful to marry is a first cousin. There is no permission for homosexuality or such "marriages" in Islam.
Conveying the Message of Islam
A duty of every Muslim, male and female, individually and collectively, is to present Islam to the non-Muslims. A Muslim, by the Grace and Mercy of Allah, may go to paradise but a non-Muslim has no such chance. At least, a person must convey the message of Islam to his loved ones, giving them a chance to save themselves from the hell fire.
Implementation of the Rule of Allah
Every aspect of a Muslim's life should be guided by Allah, including personal, family, social, economic and political life. None of the aspects of human life are outside the domain of Allah.
In summary, there are seven essential components of beliefs and seven essentials of good works required of every sane adult Muslim, male and female. The Qur'an and Hadith are essentially explanations of beliefs (Iman) and good works ('Amal-us-Salihat) and learning them in detail could be a life long pursuit.
by M. Amir Ali, Ph.D.
The approach to the presentation of Islamic beliefs and practices depends upon the addressee's religion and culture. A reference point of commonalty or contrast is useful. For example, the Christians believe in the "original sin"; the connotation is that a human being has the stigma of being born as a sinner and is dirty filthy by nature. What has a newborn done to be a sinner or to be a filthy person? Contrast this with the Islamic teaching that every human being is born in nature, meaning good with no stigma of any kind and, if left alone without any brain washing will do no wrong. Such a person has a natural ability to distinguish between right and wrong and his tendency is to do right. In the society which raises a person brain washed, many times when he reaches puberty he is all confused – good has become bad and bad has become good under the influence of the society. He was not dirty by birth but the society has made him dirty in beliefs and practices.
Purification
When clothes get dirty, they are washed; when the body gets dirty, a bath or a shower is in order. Similarly, when beliefs and practices have become dirty, a purification job is in order and this purification is the entry into Islam through the door of witnessing or shahadah. Once a person has entered Islam he is purified as a newborn and has a second chance to start over again. His past sins are washed away while keeping his good works as assets.
Analogy of a Building
There are two aspects of purification: (a) physical, and (b) spiritual. Physical purification consists of purifying the body, clothes and environment. Spiritual purification consists of purifying beliefs and practices (works or deeds). The analogy of Islam is that of a building. A building has its foundation, pillars, roof, walls and other components. The foundation of a building is underground and not visible; similarly, the foundation of Islam consists of beliefs and remains invisible. The pillars, walls, roof and other parts of a building are visible. Similarly, what a Muslim says and does is visible and becomes the pillars, roof and walls of Islam. Frequently, Muslims talk about the five pillars of Islam without thinking that five pillars cannot stand without a foundation and only pillars standing on the ground are not called a building. It is, therefore, necessary that Islam be presented in its totality not just five pillars. Five pillars are a necessary but small part of a Muslim's life.
Beliefs as the Foundation of Islam
As the foundation of a building consists of many components, such as, steel, cement, rocks, etc., the foundation of Islam consists of seven components.
1. Allah, the Only True God
Nothing is made without its planner and maker. Similarly, this universe, the earth and life on it, did not happen by itself - the first cause is the Creator, Allah or the God. Allah is the Creator of life and death, hence He is free of death and is Ever Living or Eternal. He created males and females for procreation, hence He is free of gender. Whatever He created He knows in its minutest detail, hence He is All-Knowing. Similarly, He is All-Seeing, All-Hearing, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful, Forgiving, Just; He has many attributes or good names – Muslims are told that He has ninety-nine names. All of His names are not abstract words but they have relevance in every Muslim's life. He created everything and humankind for a purpose: to serve Him. The God, in Islam, is the bedrock of the foundation of Islam.
2. Prophets and Messengers
Only Allah can tell the purpose of the creation of humankind which He does through his chosen human beings called prophets and messengers. Islam recognizes many prophets of the Bible, such as, Noah, Abraham, Moses, Jesus and many in between them. Muhammad Ibn Abd-Allah Ibn Abd-al Muttalib was the last prophet-messenger of Allah who lived fourteen centuries ago. He received guidance from Allah, gave its meaning in words and deeds, thus becoming the role model for humankind.
3. The Guidance from Allah
When one accepts a new job he is given a job description and someone shows him how to do various tasks. Similarly, Allah gives the job description in His revelations and the Prophet shows the meaning and implementation of what and how. All the prophets of the Bible fulfilled their duties and the last prophet, Muhammad, did also. He left behind the Word of Allah, the Qur'an, and his teachings, Hadith, were collected by his companions. The Qur'an and the Hadith are the textual sources of Islamic teachings and will remain so as long as there is life on earth. Allah Himself has taken the responsibility for their preservation.
4. The Angels
Another creation of Allah, scattered all over the universe doing the work for Him, is angels. Human beings have been given very little knowledge about angels. One much honored angel, Gabriel or Jibrail, brought Allah's guidance to the prophets. Along with other angels mentioned in the Qur'an there are two angels with each human being writing his deeds.
5. The Last Day
Allah has created everything with a preset life span. Everything and everyone, from the moment of creation, are running towards its destruction or death. Modern sciences have arrived at the same conclusion. Science tells us that the solar system is middle-aged; when sun arrives at the moment of its death, that will be the end of its planets, including the earth. Similarly, the whole universe has its life span and there will be a Big Crush, the opposite of the Big Bang.
The last day for each human being is the day of his/her death, as there is a last day for life on earth. On the last day of the earth, there will be earthquakes, mountains will either be rendered to sand or will float in space like carded wool, water of the oceans will either be sucked into the earth or will boil away and the valleys thus created will be filled with earth or rocks. The earth will become smooth without mountains or valleys with no life on it. However, this is not the end of human beings. There is life hereafter or the after life.
6. The Life Hereafter
Allah is Just but there is much injustice on earth. Murderers are getting away with murders, embezzlers are getting away with their loot, dictators are getting away with their oppression and injustices, and other criminals are getting away with their crimes. Are they really getting away with their crimes? No, it only appears that way. Everyone will be accountable for his deeds to Allah on the Day of Judgment and will receive reward or punishment. The life of the earth is the life of trials, not the place of real reward or punishment. This leads to the reality of Life Hereafter. After destruction of life on earth Allah will command human beings to come back to life with body and soul, their resurrection. Resurrection is followed by the judgment by Allah. No judgment is complete without reward for good doers and punishment for evil livers. The reward is the life of paradise and punishment is the life of hell. Both are believed to be eternal.
7. Al Qadr (Measure, Destiny, Decree)
People are created as males and females, short or tall, black, white, brown, yellow, smart or not so smart, with appointed parents, having a given time and place of birth and death and so on. All this is decreed by Allah. However, human beings have choices and enjoy limited freedom. The result of their activities depends upon their level of knowledge, level of effort and permission of Allah to succeed. Since human beings do not have perfect knowledge, sometimes they succeed and other times they fail in their pursuits. The admission that only Allah has perfect knowledge and human knowledge is imperfect and practical implications of this admission is Qadr.
Works and Deeds as the Building of Islam Above Ground
The visible part of a building is whatever exists above ground built on a stable foundation. Similarly, a Muslim's life, his talk and his activities must represent his beliefs. They are summarized below.
Five Rites (Acts) of Worship
The term worship has two aspects: (a) Love for Allah more than the love for anyone or anything in life, including the love of one's own life. It simply means that one is willing to give up anyone or anything for the love for Allah. (b) Obedience of Allah and His Messenger for the love of them. If one looks for worldly benefits in obedience of Allah or desires to avoid worldly harm by obeying, then it is for business not for the love of Allah. Five rites of worship are given below.
1. Shahadah, Witnessing
If one believes in the seven aspects of beliefs and is willing to live his life accordingly, he declares his intention voluntarily and publicly or at least in front of two or more witnesses. Such declaration consists of pronouncing, "La Ilaha illa-Allah wa Muhammadur-Rasool-Allah" meaning there is no deity but Allah and Muhammad is His Messenger. This pronouncement has the connotation that my Creator, Provider and Sustainer Lord is Allah and I have been brought to this world by Allah to serve Him for which I will be accountable on the Day of Judgment. The Messenger of Allah, Muhammad(S), brought the guidance from Allah, delivered to me and became a role model for me, therefore, I am going to live by the Qur'an and Sunnah (the way of the Messenger of Allah, Muhammad(S)).
2. Salah, Prescribed Prayers
Once a person takes shahadah, he is a Muslim and is required to perform the five daily prescribed prayers. In prayers a person addresses Allah directly without any intermediary or intercessor. Islam is the only religion in the world which has removed all kinds of intermediaries and intercessors between man and Allah.
3. Zakah, Wealth Cleansing Tax
The basic principle is that Allah is the owner of heavens and the earth, therefore, He is my owner and everything in my possession belongs to Him. I am only a trustee of Allah for anything in my possession. I must do whatever Allah requires me to do. Allah demands that when a certain amount of money is in one's possession for a year, a small percentage (typically 2.5%) must be spent for Allah's causes. In general, collection of Zakah is spent to help the poor and needy and other Islamic causes.
4. Sawm, Fasting in the Month of Ramadan
Ramadan is the ninth month of Islamic lunar calendar. During this month Muslims are required to fast from dawn to dusk, meaning not to eat, drink, smoke or indulge in sex. After sunset all lawful food, drink and sex are allowed. However, one must implement the moral code of Islam very strictly because non-adherence has double jeopardy, namely, violating the moral code and nullification of the fast. The fast is a test of one's sincerity to Allah.
5. Hajj, Pilgrimage to Makkah
A Muslim must perform Hajj once in a life time provided expenses can be met without borrowing or owing any money to anyone, health is good and the way is safe. Hajj is the re-creation of some of the trials and tribulations of Prophets Abraham and Ishmael, and Hagar, the wife of Abraham, with a few additional rituals. The Hajj lasts for five days from the 8th to 12th of Dhul Hijjah. Approximately two million people perform Hajj every year.
Significance of the Pillars
The above mentioned five rites of worship are also called the five pillars of Islam. Pillars are supporters of roofs and walls. If the pillars fall down there is no building left. Similarly, if a Muslim is not doing his five daily salah, this pillar is absent from his building of Islam and part of the building is destroyed. He may claim to be a Muslim but in practice he is a hypocrite. The same analogy is applied to other pillars.
Excellence in Knowledge and Conduct
A good believing and practicing Muslim is a role model for the people and the Muslim Ummah is the role model for all other societies. A Muslim scientist must be the best among his peers, a doctor must be the best, a car mechanic must be the best and so on. A role model must excel in all aspects of his life, that is, in knowledge, profession, on the job, in his moral character and honoring other people's rights. Most importantly he must excel in his service to his Lord, Allah.
Islamic Moral Code, Enjoining Good and Forbidding Evil
Islam requires Muslims to be righteous, truthful, fulfill their promises, be courteous, gentle in disagreements, have humility, keep the trust and keep all other well known virtues. Naturally, Islam condemns the immoral and criminal acts of lying, cheating, backbiting, slandering, breaking promises, breaching the trust, arrogance, haughtiness, and all other well known vices. It is not enough to stay away from vices and adopt all virtues but he has a duty to promote the same good in the society and do everything possible to stop evil and vice.
Fulfill the Duty to Others
There are mutual rights and duties. However, Allah will not ask on the Day of Judgment if you have received all your rights but He will ask if you have done all your duties. Human duties fall under four categories:
1. Duty to Allah
The first and foremost duty is to Allah. There are three duties to Allah, (a) not to associate partners with Him, (b) not to worship anyone but Allah, and (c) not to depend upon anyone for help but Allah.
2. Duty to Other Human Beings
Whenever there is interaction with another person there are mutual rights and duties. One person's rights are other person's duties. There are duties to parents, spouse, children, relatives, neighbors, buyers, sellers, ruler, ruled, boss, subordinates and so on.
3. Community Duty
There is a duty to defend the family, the country and the community as a whole. In addition there are people who cannot provide for themselves, such as, the poor, orphans, widows, handicapped, refugees and others whom a single person cannot support fully but the community as a whole can. Every Muslim should be a part of such a support system. Every human being has five basic rights, namely, food, clothing, shelter, education and health maintenance; every Muslim should be part of the system providing basic rights to all those who cannot provide for themselves.
4. Duty to Manage the Earth
Allah has appointed man Khalifah on the earth, meaning that man is a trustee or manager of the earth for the owner, Allah. Humankind, in general, and Muslims, in particular, have the duty to see that the resources of the earth are not abused: air and water are not polluted, animals are not killed for fun or for greedy people, trees are not cut down unnecessarily and so on. Use resources of the earth but do not abuse them.
Lawful (Halal) and Unlawful (Haram)
This is a part of Islamic Shari'ah, civil and criminal law. Every Muslim is not going to be an Islamic lawyer or a judge, but he should know about a few unlawful things. The basic principle is that everything is lawful except those things which are explicitly unlawful. A few things are doubtful therefore it is advisable to avoid them. The unlawful things fall under four categories.
1. Food and Drink
There are a number of things which have been forbidden as food and drink, such as, flesh of swine, blood, anything offered in the name of anyone other than Allah, flesh of dead animals, carnivorous animals, birds of prey, all intoxicants including alcoholic liquor and drugs of abuse and anything poisonous to humans.
2. Sources of Income
Any business involving production, distribution or sale of unlawful food or drinks is unlawful. In addition, all trades of exploitation or taking others rights away are unlawful, such as, prostitution, gambling, usury and interest, stealing, robbery, embezzlement, monopolizing and hoarding to raise prices and others.
3. Spending the Wealth
It has been mentioned that all wealth is owned by Allah and human beings are trustees for whatever they possess. It is, therefore, necessary that Allah's wealth not be spent wherever Allah does not desire it to be spent. A few examples of such unlawful areas are already given above. One person's spending is another person's source of income. Additional unlawful areas are spending money on unlawful food and drinks to serve others.
4. Sexual Relations
A simple principle is no sex without marriage. An engagement is a social custom not a religious rite. A person closest in blood relation lawful to marry is a first cousin. There is no permission for homosexuality or such "marriages" in Islam.
Conveying the Message of Islam
A duty of every Muslim, male and female, individually and collectively, is to present Islam to the non-Muslims. A Muslim, by the Grace and Mercy of Allah, may go to paradise but a non-Muslim has no such chance. At least, a person must convey the message of Islam to his loved ones, giving them a chance to save themselves from the hell fire.
Implementation of the Rule of Allah
Every aspect of a Muslim's life should be guided by Allah, including personal, family, social, economic and political life. None of the aspects of human life are outside the domain of Allah.
In summary, there are seven essential components of beliefs and seven essentials of good works required of every sane adult Muslim, male and female. The Qur'an and Hadith are essentially explanations of beliefs (Iman) and good works ('Amal-us-Salihat) and learning them in detail could be a life long pursuit.
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