http://www.islamreligion.com/articles/41/
Reality of Angels
In common folklore, angels are thought of as good forces of nature, hologram images, or illusions. Western iconography sometimes depicts angels as fat cherubic babies or handsome young men or women with a halo surrounding their head. In Islamic doctrine, they are real created beings who will eventually suffer death, but are generally hidden from our senses.
They are not divine or semi-divine, and they are not God’s associates running different districts of the universe. Also, they are not objects to be worshipped or prayed to, as they do not deliver our prayers to God. They all submit to God and carry out His commands.
In the Islamic worldview, there are no fallen angels: they are not divided into ‘good’ and ‘evil’ angels. Human beings do not become angels after death. Satan is not a fallen angel, but is one of the jinn, a creation of God parallel to human beings and angels.
Angels were created from light before human beings were created, and thus their graphic or symbolic representation in Islamic art is rare. Nevertheless, they are generally beautiful beings with wings as described in Muslim scripture.
Angels form different cosmic hierarchies and orders in the sense that they are of different size, status, and merit.
The greatest of them is Gabriel. The Prophet of Islam actually saw him in his original form. Also, the attendants of God’s Throne are among the greatest angels. They love the believers and beseech God to forgive them their sins. They carry the Throne of God, about whom the Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, said: “I have been given permission to speak about one of the angels of God who carry the Throne. The distance between his ear-lobes and his shoulders is equivalent to a seven-hundred-year journey.” (Abu Daud)
They do not eat or drink. The angels do not get bored or tired of worshipping God: “They celebrate His praises night and day, nor do they ever slacken.” (Quran 21:20)
The Number of Angels
How many angels there are? Only God knows. The Much-Frequented House is a sacred heavenly sanctuary above the Kaaba, the black cube in the city of Mecca. Every day seventy thousand angels visit it and leave, never returning to it again, followed by another group. [1]
The Names of Angels
Muslims believe in specific angels mentioned in the Islamic sources like Jibreel (Gabriel), Mika'eel (Michael), Israfeel, Malik - the guard over Hell, and others. Of these, only Gabriel and Michael are mentioned in the Bible.
Angelic Abilities
The angels possess great powers given to them by God. They can take on different forms. The Muslim scripture describes how at the moment of Jesus’ conception, God sent Gabriel to Mary in the form of a man: “…Then We sent to her Our angel, and he appeared before her as a man in all respects.” (Quran 19:17)
Angels also visited Abraham in human form. Similarly, angels came to Lot to deliver him from danger in the form of handsome, young men. Gabriel used to visit Prophet Muhammad in different forms. Sometimes, he would appear in the form of one of his handsome disciples, and sometimes in the form of a desert Bedouin.
Angels have the ability to take human forms in some circumstances involving common people.
Gabriel is God’s heavenly messenger to mankind. He would convey the revelation from God to His human messengers. God says: “Say: whoever is an enemy to Gabriel - for he brings down the (revelation) to your heart by God’s will...” (Quran 2:97)
Tasks of the Angels
Some angels are put in charge of executing God’s law in the physical world. Michael is responsible for rain, directing it wherever God wishes. He has helpers who assist him by the command of his Lord; they direct the winds and clouds, as God wills. Another is responsible for blowing the Horn, which will be blown by Israafeel at the onset of the Day of Judgment. Others are responsible for taking souls out of the bodies at the time of death: the Angel of Death and his assistants. God says: “Say: the Angel of Death, put in charge of you, will (duly) take your souls, then shall you be brought back to your Lord.” (Quran 32:11)
Then there are guardian angels responsible for protecting the believer throughout his life, at home or traveling, asleep or awake.
Others are responsible for recording the deeds of man, good and bad. These are known as the “honorable scribes.”
Two angels, Munkar and Nakeer, are responsible for testing people in the grave.
Among them are keepers of Paradise and the nineteen ‘guards’ of Hell whose leader is named ‘Malik.’
There are also angels responsible for breathing the soul into the fetus and writing down its provisions, life-span, actions, and whether it will be wretched or happy.
Some angels are roamers, traveling around the world in search of gatherings where God is remembered. There are also angels constituting God’s heavenly army, standing in rows, they never get tired or sit down, and others who bow or prostrate, and never raise their heads, always worshipping God.
As we learn from above, the angels are a grandiose creation of God, varying in numbers, roles, and abilities. God is in no need of these creatures, but having knowledge and belief in them adds to the awe that one feels towards God, in that He is able to create as He wishes, for indeed the magnificence of His creation is a proof of the magnificence of the Creator.
Footnotes:
[1] Saheeh Al-Bukhari.
Monday, September 28, 2009
Angels: Messengers with Wings
http://www.khutbah.com/en/allah_angels/angels.php
by Muhammad Alshareef
In the name of Allah. All praise is due to Allah and may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon His beloved Messenger, his family and companions, and those that follow them in righteousness till the final day.
The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam was once sitting in his home, his lower legs uncovered, when Abu Bakr radi Allahu anhu came in, followed by 'Umar radi Allahu anhu. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam remained seated as he was. Then Uthman radi Allahu anhu arrived, and this time the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam sat up, covered his lower legs and greeted him with the warmest greeting. Aisha radi Allahu anha witnessed this and when she later questioned the Messenger of Allah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam about it, he sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam replied, “Should I not be shy from he whom the angels are shy of?”
Jibreel alayhis salaam once came to the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam and asked him about Islam, eman, and ihsan. The Messenger of Allah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam in response to the question, "What is eman?" said, "Eman is to believe in Allah, in His angels, His books, His Messengers, the Last Day, and the divine decree – the good and the bad thereof."
We learn from the above hadith that believing in the angels is one of the pillars of eman. Angels are a creation of Allah. They were created before our father Adam alayhis salaam was created. Allah created them from light; they do not eat or drink; they are characterized by neither feminine nor masculine qualities; and they do not tire. Some spend their entire existence in ruku', others in sujood and then when the judgment is called they will raise their heads and say, "Glory be to You, our Lord, we did not worship You in a way befitting Your Majesty."
The Messenger of Allah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam told us about some of the characteristics and duties of the angels. Some of what he sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam taught us is as follows:
1. Their creation is huge.
The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam said, "I saw Jibreel in the fashion that he was originally created in. He had 600 wings, each wing filling the (entire) horizon (i.e. the east to the west, as far as the eye could see)."
This event is mentioned in the Qur'an as well: And indeed he (Muhammad sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam) saw him (Jibreel alayhis salaam) in the clear horizon (towards the east) (At-Takweer 81/23).
2. They have the ability to change shape.
We know this from the story of Maryam and also from the hadith of Jibreel alayhis salaam in which we are told that he appeared before the companions in the form of a man, wearing an intensely white garment and having intensely black hair.
3. They live in the heavens, from which they descend to carry out the duties appointed to them.
Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala says: Nearly the heavens might be rent asunder from above them (by His majesty) and the angels glorify the praises of their Lord (Ash-Shura 42/5). This was just a glimpse into some of the characteristics of the angels. As for the relationship between the angels and the mu'mineen, this is a very close one. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam told us that they witness the gatherings of Muslims in which Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala is remembered. He sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam said: "Allah has some angels who look for those who celebrate the praises of Allah on the roads and paths. And when they find some people celebrating the praises of Allah, they call each other, saying, 'Come to the object of your pursuit.'"
He added:
"Then the angels encircle them with their wings up to the sky of the world. (After those people celebrated the praises of Allah, and the angels go back) their Lord, asks them (those angels), though He knows better than them, 'What do My slaves say?'
"The angels reply, 'They say subhan Allah, Allahu Akbar, and alhamdulillah.'"
"Allah then says 'Did they see Me?' The angels reply, 'No! By Allah, they didn't see You.'"
"Allah says, 'How would it have been if they saw Me?'"
"The angels reply, 'If they saw You, they would worship You more devoutly and celebrate Your Glory more deeply, and declare Your freedom from any resemblance to anything more often.'"
"Allah says (to the angels), 'What do they ask Me for?'"
"The angels reply, 'They ask You for Paradise.'"
"Allah says (to the angels), 'Did they see it?'"
"The angels say, 'No! By Allah, O Lord! They did not see it.'"
"Allah says, 'How would it have been if they saw it?'"
"The angels say, 'If they saw it, they would have greater covetousness for it and would seek it with greater zeal and would have greater desire for it.'"
"Allah says, 'From what do they seek refuge?'"
"The angels reply, 'They seek refuge from the (Hell) Fire.'"
"Allah says, 'Did they see it?'"
"The angels say, 'No! By Allah, O Lord! They did not see it.'"
"Allah says, 'How would it have been if they saw it?'"
"The angels say, "'If they saw it they would flee from it with the extreme fleeing and would have extreme fear from it.'"
"Then Allah says, 'I make you witnesses that I have forgiven them.'"
Allah's Apostle sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam added: "One of the angels says, 'There was so-and-so amongst them, and he was not one of them, but he had just come for some need.'"
"Allah says, 'These are those people whose companions will not fall into misery.'"
The angels love the believers. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam said: "When Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala loves someone he calls to Jibreel saying, ‘O Jibreel, I love such and such a person, so love him.’ Then Jibreel will call to the (angels) of the heavens, ‘Allah loves such and such a person so love him.’ And the angels will love [that person]. And then Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala will place acceptance on earth for that mu’min" (Bukhari and Muslim).
The angels also pray for the believers. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam explained: "Any servant that prays for me, an angel will pray for them" (Sahih Al-Jami’). And the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam also said that there is an angel appointed to say, "Ameen and to you the same," when someone supplicates for his brother in his absence. And of course, the angels undoubtedly assist the mu’mineen in jihaad. In the Battle of Badr the Messenger of Allah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam left Madinah with only 317 companions in pursuit of a caravan, unprepared for war. When the Muslim army found themselves confronted with over 1000 well-prepared fighters from the Quraish who had weapons and horses, the prospects of them emerging victorious seemed grim, especially since it was to be their first battle. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam entered his tent, prayed and raised his hands invoking victory from Allah. He raised his hands so high that his shawl would fall off and Abu Bakr radi Allahu anhu was there placing it back on his shoulders. He, sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam cried and prayed until Abu Bakr radi Allahu anhu felt sympathy for the state in which he saw him. He called out to the Messenger of Allah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam, "Ruwaidan Ya RasuAllah. Inallaha naasiruk wa mujizu wa’dak (Take it easy, O Messenger of Allah. Allah shall surely aid you, and fulfill the promise [He made] to you.)."
Then Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala revealed the verse: (Remember) when your Lord inspired the angels, "Verily, I am with you, so keep firm those who have believed. I will cast terror into the hearts of those who have disbelieved, so strike them over the necks, and smite them over all their fingers and toes" (Al-Anfal 8/12).
Jibreel asked the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam what the position of the men who had participated in the Battle of Badr with him was. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam replied, "They are the best of us."
Then Jibraeel said, "Likewise, the angels that attended Badr are the best amongst the angels."
And of course, the angels are there when the mu’min dies. Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala tells us of that day when they come to extract the soul of the mu’min: Verily, those who say: "Our Lord is Allah (alone)," and they (lived) upright, on them the angels will descend (at the time of their death, saying), "Fear not, nor grieve! Rather receive the glad tidings of Paradise which you have been promised" (Fussilat 41/30)!
Just as the angels are a part of the mu’mins life, death and resurrection, they are also a part of the existence and end of the kafir, but in a different way. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam told us that when Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala hates a person he calls to Jibreel alayhis salaam saying, "O Jibreel, I hate such and such a person so hate him." Then Jibreel will call to the (angels) of the heavens, "Allah hates such and such a person so hate him." And the angels will hate him. And then Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala will place displeasure on earth for him.
During the time of the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam, the kuffar mocked him by requesting to see the angels in this life, claiming that only then would they believe. Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala recorded their statement in the Qur'an, for them and others who believe with their eyes and not their hearts: And those who expect not to meet with Us (those who deny the Day of Resurrection and the life of the Hereafter) saying, "Why are not the angels sent down to us, or why do we not see our Lord?" indeed they think too highly of themselves, and are scornful with great pride! / On the Day they will see the angels – no glad tidings will there be for the mujrimoon (the criminals) and they will say, "Forbidden to you is any sort of glad tidings" (Al-Furqan 25/21-22).
And Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala tells us about their conversation with the angel custodians of Hell, when they enter it: And those in the fire will say to the keepers (angels) of Hell, "Call your Lord to lighten for us a day of the punishment." / They will reply, "Did there not come to you your Messengers with clear proofs?" They will say, "Yes." They will say, "Then pray," and the prayer of the disbelievers is to no avail (Ghafir 40/49-50).
What, we may now ask, is our duty towards these angels? It is to believe in them and respect them in the manner they are deserving of. Thus, when we hear that angels do not enter houses that have dogs and images, we immediately go and rid ourselves of that which will rob our houses of their blessed presence. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam told us in an authentic hadith that the angels will not enter a house in which there is an image or a dog. It is unfortunate that many Muslim homes have found a place on their shelves to put up figurines of animals, or dolls, and walls on which to mount pictures of animate objects. If prayer time comes they may cover these items or they may not, but irrespective – this is a house that is robbed of the angels' blessed presence, protection and du'a. And it is most likely that devils and jinns will find refuge in a home in which angels are absent. May Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala protect us all.
Throughout the stages of our creation the angels have been there, carrying out some duty or the other. When we were nothing in our mothers' wombs, an angel was present, breathing a soul into us. They are there everyday reporting to Allah about our salah. They are there every second recording what we whisper and speak. When the time of our death comes they are there, ready to take our souls. And when the Day of Judgment commences, an angel will be there, blowing the trumpet to announce its arrival.
The closest angels to us are those which are present on our shoulders, recording our good deeds and our bad deeds. Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala mentions them in the Quran: Not a word does he (or she) utter except that there is a watcher near him, ready (to record it) (Qaaf 50/18).
If we had a tape recorder on both shoulders and there was a competition in which the person who glorified Allah would get one dollar for each time he/she did so, and the person who spoke ill would be lashed once, imagine what would happen! Our community would be ignited by tasbeeh – "Subhan Allah, alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar." And at the end of the day someone would win $30,000, another $50,000. Who would not want to participate in such an easy competition with such high stakes?
Remember dear brothers and sisters, we are being recorded all the time and the stakes are much higher!
by Muhammad Alshareef
In the name of Allah. All praise is due to Allah and may the peace and blessings of Allah be upon His beloved Messenger, his family and companions, and those that follow them in righteousness till the final day.
The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam was once sitting in his home, his lower legs uncovered, when Abu Bakr radi Allahu anhu came in, followed by 'Umar radi Allahu anhu. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam remained seated as he was. Then Uthman radi Allahu anhu arrived, and this time the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam sat up, covered his lower legs and greeted him with the warmest greeting. Aisha radi Allahu anha witnessed this and when she later questioned the Messenger of Allah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam about it, he sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam replied, “Should I not be shy from he whom the angels are shy of?”
Jibreel alayhis salaam once came to the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam and asked him about Islam, eman, and ihsan. The Messenger of Allah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam in response to the question, "What is eman?" said, "Eman is to believe in Allah, in His angels, His books, His Messengers, the Last Day, and the divine decree – the good and the bad thereof."
We learn from the above hadith that believing in the angels is one of the pillars of eman. Angels are a creation of Allah. They were created before our father Adam alayhis salaam was created. Allah created them from light; they do not eat or drink; they are characterized by neither feminine nor masculine qualities; and they do not tire. Some spend their entire existence in ruku', others in sujood and then when the judgment is called they will raise their heads and say, "Glory be to You, our Lord, we did not worship You in a way befitting Your Majesty."
The Messenger of Allah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam told us about some of the characteristics and duties of the angels. Some of what he sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam taught us is as follows:
1. Their creation is huge.
The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam said, "I saw Jibreel in the fashion that he was originally created in. He had 600 wings, each wing filling the (entire) horizon (i.e. the east to the west, as far as the eye could see)."
This event is mentioned in the Qur'an as well: And indeed he (Muhammad sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam) saw him (Jibreel alayhis salaam) in the clear horizon (towards the east) (At-Takweer 81/23).
2. They have the ability to change shape.
We know this from the story of Maryam and also from the hadith of Jibreel alayhis salaam in which we are told that he appeared before the companions in the form of a man, wearing an intensely white garment and having intensely black hair.
3. They live in the heavens, from which they descend to carry out the duties appointed to them.
Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala says: Nearly the heavens might be rent asunder from above them (by His majesty) and the angels glorify the praises of their Lord (Ash-Shura 42/5). This was just a glimpse into some of the characteristics of the angels. As for the relationship between the angels and the mu'mineen, this is a very close one. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam told us that they witness the gatherings of Muslims in which Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala is remembered. He sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam said: "Allah has some angels who look for those who celebrate the praises of Allah on the roads and paths. And when they find some people celebrating the praises of Allah, they call each other, saying, 'Come to the object of your pursuit.'"
He added:
"Then the angels encircle them with their wings up to the sky of the world. (After those people celebrated the praises of Allah, and the angels go back) their Lord, asks them (those angels), though He knows better than them, 'What do My slaves say?'
"The angels reply, 'They say subhan Allah, Allahu Akbar, and alhamdulillah.'"
"Allah then says 'Did they see Me?' The angels reply, 'No! By Allah, they didn't see You.'"
"Allah says, 'How would it have been if they saw Me?'"
"The angels reply, 'If they saw You, they would worship You more devoutly and celebrate Your Glory more deeply, and declare Your freedom from any resemblance to anything more often.'"
"Allah says (to the angels), 'What do they ask Me for?'"
"The angels reply, 'They ask You for Paradise.'"
"Allah says (to the angels), 'Did they see it?'"
"The angels say, 'No! By Allah, O Lord! They did not see it.'"
"Allah says, 'How would it have been if they saw it?'"
"The angels say, 'If they saw it, they would have greater covetousness for it and would seek it with greater zeal and would have greater desire for it.'"
"Allah says, 'From what do they seek refuge?'"
"The angels reply, 'They seek refuge from the (Hell) Fire.'"
"Allah says, 'Did they see it?'"
"The angels say, 'No! By Allah, O Lord! They did not see it.'"
"Allah says, 'How would it have been if they saw it?'"
"The angels say, "'If they saw it they would flee from it with the extreme fleeing and would have extreme fear from it.'"
"Then Allah says, 'I make you witnesses that I have forgiven them.'"
Allah's Apostle sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam added: "One of the angels says, 'There was so-and-so amongst them, and he was not one of them, but he had just come for some need.'"
"Allah says, 'These are those people whose companions will not fall into misery.'"
The angels love the believers. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam said: "When Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala loves someone he calls to Jibreel saying, ‘O Jibreel, I love such and such a person, so love him.’ Then Jibreel will call to the (angels) of the heavens, ‘Allah loves such and such a person so love him.’ And the angels will love [that person]. And then Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala will place acceptance on earth for that mu’min" (Bukhari and Muslim).
The angels also pray for the believers. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam explained: "Any servant that prays for me, an angel will pray for them" (Sahih Al-Jami’). And the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam also said that there is an angel appointed to say, "Ameen and to you the same," when someone supplicates for his brother in his absence. And of course, the angels undoubtedly assist the mu’mineen in jihaad. In the Battle of Badr the Messenger of Allah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam left Madinah with only 317 companions in pursuit of a caravan, unprepared for war. When the Muslim army found themselves confronted with over 1000 well-prepared fighters from the Quraish who had weapons and horses, the prospects of them emerging victorious seemed grim, especially since it was to be their first battle. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam entered his tent, prayed and raised his hands invoking victory from Allah. He raised his hands so high that his shawl would fall off and Abu Bakr radi Allahu anhu was there placing it back on his shoulders. He, sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam cried and prayed until Abu Bakr radi Allahu anhu felt sympathy for the state in which he saw him. He called out to the Messenger of Allah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam, "Ruwaidan Ya RasuAllah. Inallaha naasiruk wa mujizu wa’dak (Take it easy, O Messenger of Allah. Allah shall surely aid you, and fulfill the promise [He made] to you.)."
Then Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala revealed the verse: (Remember) when your Lord inspired the angels, "Verily, I am with you, so keep firm those who have believed. I will cast terror into the hearts of those who have disbelieved, so strike them over the necks, and smite them over all their fingers and toes" (Al-Anfal 8/12).
Jibreel asked the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam what the position of the men who had participated in the Battle of Badr with him was. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam replied, "They are the best of us."
Then Jibraeel said, "Likewise, the angels that attended Badr are the best amongst the angels."
And of course, the angels are there when the mu’min dies. Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala tells us of that day when they come to extract the soul of the mu’min: Verily, those who say: "Our Lord is Allah (alone)," and they (lived) upright, on them the angels will descend (at the time of their death, saying), "Fear not, nor grieve! Rather receive the glad tidings of Paradise which you have been promised" (Fussilat 41/30)!
Just as the angels are a part of the mu’mins life, death and resurrection, they are also a part of the existence and end of the kafir, but in a different way. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam told us that when Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala hates a person he calls to Jibreel alayhis salaam saying, "O Jibreel, I hate such and such a person so hate him." Then Jibreel will call to the (angels) of the heavens, "Allah hates such and such a person so hate him." And the angels will hate him. And then Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala will place displeasure on earth for him.
During the time of the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam, the kuffar mocked him by requesting to see the angels in this life, claiming that only then would they believe. Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala recorded their statement in the Qur'an, for them and others who believe with their eyes and not their hearts: And those who expect not to meet with Us (those who deny the Day of Resurrection and the life of the Hereafter) saying, "Why are not the angels sent down to us, or why do we not see our Lord?" indeed they think too highly of themselves, and are scornful with great pride! / On the Day they will see the angels – no glad tidings will there be for the mujrimoon (the criminals) and they will say, "Forbidden to you is any sort of glad tidings" (Al-Furqan 25/21-22).
And Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala tells us about their conversation with the angel custodians of Hell, when they enter it: And those in the fire will say to the keepers (angels) of Hell, "Call your Lord to lighten for us a day of the punishment." / They will reply, "Did there not come to you your Messengers with clear proofs?" They will say, "Yes." They will say, "Then pray," and the prayer of the disbelievers is to no avail (Ghafir 40/49-50).
What, we may now ask, is our duty towards these angels? It is to believe in them and respect them in the manner they are deserving of. Thus, when we hear that angels do not enter houses that have dogs and images, we immediately go and rid ourselves of that which will rob our houses of their blessed presence. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam told us in an authentic hadith that the angels will not enter a house in which there is an image or a dog. It is unfortunate that many Muslim homes have found a place on their shelves to put up figurines of animals, or dolls, and walls on which to mount pictures of animate objects. If prayer time comes they may cover these items or they may not, but irrespective – this is a house that is robbed of the angels' blessed presence, protection and du'a. And it is most likely that devils and jinns will find refuge in a home in which angels are absent. May Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala protect us all.
Throughout the stages of our creation the angels have been there, carrying out some duty or the other. When we were nothing in our mothers' wombs, an angel was present, breathing a soul into us. They are there everyday reporting to Allah about our salah. They are there every second recording what we whisper and speak. When the time of our death comes they are there, ready to take our souls. And when the Day of Judgment commences, an angel will be there, blowing the trumpet to announce its arrival.
The closest angels to us are those which are present on our shoulders, recording our good deeds and our bad deeds. Allah subhaanahu wa ta ‘aala mentions them in the Quran: Not a word does he (or she) utter except that there is a watcher near him, ready (to record it) (Qaaf 50/18).
If we had a tape recorder on both shoulders and there was a competition in which the person who glorified Allah would get one dollar for each time he/she did so, and the person who spoke ill would be lashed once, imagine what would happen! Our community would be ignited by tasbeeh – "Subhan Allah, alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar." And at the end of the day someone would win $30,000, another $50,000. Who would not want to participate in such an easy competition with such high stakes?
Remember dear brothers and sisters, we are being recorded all the time and the stakes are much higher!
Sunday, September 27, 2009
The Belief in the Angels
The angels are a creation from the World of Al-Ghayb [1] who worship Allaah and possess nothing from the Divine Qualities of Ruboobiyyah and Uloohiyyah. Allaah created them from Light and granted them the complete submission to His Command and the ability to execute it.
Allaah (Ta’aalaa) said: “And those who are near Him (i.e. the angels) are not too proud to worship Him, nor are they weary (of His worship).” [Qur’aan 21:19-20]
They are great in number; none can enumerate them except Allaah (Ta’aalaa). It is confirmed from the Hadeeth of Anas (radhi-Allaahu ‘anhu) in his narration of the story of Al-Mi’raaj [2] that the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) said: “...I was shown Al-Bait Al-Ma’moor. [3] I asked Jibreel about it and he said: ‘This is Al-Bait Al-Ma’moor where seventy thousand angels perform Salaat daily. When they leave, they never return to it (but always a fresh batch comes into it daily).” [4]
The Belief in the Angels Comprises Four Matters:
1. The belief in their existence.
2. To believe in those whose Names are known to us, like Jibreel, and to generally believe in those whose Names we don’t know.
3. The belief in what we know from their Attributes, like that of Jibreel whom the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) saw in his genuine shape in which he was created, having six hundred wings, and covering the whole horizon. [5]
The angel may, by Allaah’s Command, take the form of a man as happened to Jibreel when Allaah sent Him to Maryam where he appeared to her in the form of a man in all respects. [6] Also when he came to the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) while he was sitting in the company of his Sahaabah. He (Jibreel) appeared in the form of man dressed in extremely white clothes, his hair exceedingly black; no signs of journeying were to be seen on him, and none of the Sahaabah knew him. He sat down by the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) resting his knees against his and placing the palms of his hands upon his thighs. He then asked the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) about Islaam, Eemaan, Ihsaan [7], the Hour (i.e. Day of Resurrection) and its Signs. The Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) answered his questions after which he left. Then the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) said: “That was Jibreel, who came to teach you your Deen.”
Similarly, the angels whom Allaah sent to Ibraaheem (alayhis-salaam) and Loot (alayhis-salaam) appeared in the form of men.
4. To believe in what we know of their deeds which they perform in compliance with the Command of Allaah (Ta’aalaa), like their Tasbeeh and worship of Allaah [8] day and night without boredom or slackness.
Some Angels May Have Specialized Tasks:
For example:
1. Jibreel: the Al-‘Ameen (the entrusted) on Allaah’s Revelation. He (Ta’aalaa) sends him to the Prophets and Messengers.
2. Mikaa’eel: In charge of Al-Qatr i.e. rainfall and plants. [9]
3. Israafeel: Responsible for the blowing of the Trumpet on the Day when the Hour will be established and creation will be resurrected. [10]
4. Malakul Mawt (The Angel of Death): Assigned to pull out the souls at the time of death. [11]
5. The angels appointed to the womb: When the embryo completes four months in the mother’s womb, Allaah send to him an angel and orders him to record his provision, his life term, his deeds, and whether he will be of the wretched or the blessed (in the Hereafter).
6. The angels appointed to watch and keep records of the deeds of the children of Adam (mankind): one sitting on the right and one on the left of each person. [12]
7. The angels assigned to question the dead once they are buried. Two angels come and ask him about his Rabb (Allaah), his religion, and his Prophet. [13]
The Belief in the Angels Yields Great Benefits, Amongst Them:
1. Being aware of Allaah’s Greatness, Power, and Authority. Certainly the greatness of creation (in this case the angels) is due to the Greatness of the Creator.
2. To give thanks to Allaah for His concern for the children of Adam whereby He assigned some of these angels to protect them and record their deed as well as other interests.
3. To love the angels for what they have done from worship to Allaah (Ta’aalaa).
Some of those who deviated (from the Straight Path) denied that the angels are genuine forms. They said that they represent the power of potential good in creation. This position belies the Book of Allaah, the Sunnah of His Messenger and the general consensus of Muslims.
Allaah (Ta’aalaa) said:
“All praise is due to Allaah, the (only) Originator (or Creator) of the heavens and the earth Who made the angels messengers with wings - two, three, and four.” [Qur’aan 35:1]
“And if you could see when the angels pull away the souls of the Kufaar (at death), they smite their faces and their backs.” [Qur’aan 8:50]
“And if you could but see when the Thaalimeen (polytheists, wrong-doers, etc.) are in the agonies of death, while the angels stretching forth their hands (saying): ‘Deliver your souls’.” [Qur’aan 6:93]
“Until when fear is banished from their (angels’) hearts, they (angels) say: ‘What is that your Rabb has said?’ They say: ‘The truth. And He is the Most High, the Great.’ ” [Qur’aan 34:23]
Allaah also said about the people of Al-Jannah that: “And the angels shall enter unto them from every gate (saying): ‘Salaam be upon you for that you persevered in patience. Excellent indeed is the final home.’ ” [Qur’aan 13:23-24]
The Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) said in the Hadeeth reported by Abu Hurairah (radhi-Allaahu ‘anhu) and collected in Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree: “If Allaah loves a person, He Calls Jibreel that: ‘Allaah loves so-and-so. O Jibreel! Love him.’ Jibreel would love him and make an announcement amongst the inhabitants of the heaven: ‘Allaah loves so-and-so, therefore you should love him also.’ The inhabitants of the heavens would love him, and then he is granted the pleasures of the people on the earth.” [14]
In the same book (Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree), the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) said: “On every Friday the angels take the stand at every gate of the mosque recording the names of the people one after the other (according to the time of their arrival for the Friday prayer), and when the Imaam sits (on the pulpit) they fold up their scrolls and get ready to listen to the Thikr (Khutba: the Friday speech).” [15]
The above texts clearly state that the angels are genuine forms (of creation) and not moral forces as those who deviated (from the Straight Path) say. The general consensus of the Muslims is in accordance with the above texts.
Footnotes:
[1] Al-Ghayb: Realities and domains beyond human perception. [TN]
[2] Which describes the ascent of the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) to the Heavens. See for example Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree, V.1, Hadeeth # 345, and V.5 Hadeeth no. 227. [TN]
[3] Al-Bait (The House) Al-Ma’moor (Inhabited): in the seventh heaven parable to the Ka’bah in Makkah, continuously visited by the angels. Ibn Katheer said: “It is the Ka’bah for the inhabitants of the seventh heaven.” See Tafseer Ibn Katheer (Qur’aan 52:4) and As-Silsalah As-Saheehah by Shaykh Naasir-ud-Deen Al-Albaanee, V.1, no. 477. [TN]
[4] Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree, V.4, Hadeeth no. 429.
[5] See Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree, V.4, Hadeeth nos. 455-457.
[6] See Qur’aan 19:17.
[7] When Jibreel (alayhis-salaam) asked the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) about Ihsaan, he (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) replied: “Ihsaan is to worship Allaah as though you are seeing Him, and while you see Him not yet truly He sees you.” For full account of this Hadeeth, see Saheeh Muslim, V.1, Hadeeth no. 47. [TN]
[8] Magnifying the Perfection of Allaah, Most High. [TN]
[9] See Al-Bidaayah wan-Nihaayah by Ibn Katheer, V.1, p.50. [TN]
[10] See Fathul Baaree by Ibn Hajr Al-Asqalaanee, V.11, p.368. [TN]
[11] Allaah (Ta’aalaa) said: “Say: ‘The angel of death, who is set over you, will take your souls, then you shall be brought to your Rabb.’ ” [Qur’aan 32:11] [TN]
[12] Allaah, the Exalted, said:
“But verily, over you (are appointed angels in charge of mankind) to watch you. (They) are honorable in Allaah’s Sight, writing down (your deeds). They know all that you do.” [Qur’aan 82:10-12]
“(Remember!) that the two Receivers (recording angels) receive, one sitting on the right and one on the left (to note his or her actions). Not a word does he (or she) utter. but there is a watcher by him (or her) (to record it).” [Qur’aan 50:17-18]
[13] When a dead person is buried, two black (looking) angels having blue eyes, one called Munkar and the other Nakeer, will come to him. They will ask about Allaah, the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) and his religion. A Hadeeth related by At-Tirmidhee and Shaykh Al-Albaanee said it is hasan. See At-Tahaawiyyah, FN. no. 528, p.399, As-Saheehah, Hadeeth no. 1391, and At-Tabreezee’s Mushkaatul Massaabeeh, V.1, Hadeeth no. 130. [TN]
[14] Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree, V.4, Hadeeth no. 431.
[15] Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree, V.4, Hadeeth no. 433.
Taken from Explaining The Fundamentals Of Faith by Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saalih al-Uthaymeen translated by Dr. Saalih as-Saalih
Allaah (Ta’aalaa) said: “And those who are near Him (i.e. the angels) are not too proud to worship Him, nor are they weary (of His worship).” [Qur’aan 21:19-20]
They are great in number; none can enumerate them except Allaah (Ta’aalaa). It is confirmed from the Hadeeth of Anas (radhi-Allaahu ‘anhu) in his narration of the story of Al-Mi’raaj [2] that the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) said: “...I was shown Al-Bait Al-Ma’moor. [3] I asked Jibreel about it and he said: ‘This is Al-Bait Al-Ma’moor where seventy thousand angels perform Salaat daily. When they leave, they never return to it (but always a fresh batch comes into it daily).” [4]
The Belief in the Angels Comprises Four Matters:
1. The belief in their existence.
2. To believe in those whose Names are known to us, like Jibreel, and to generally believe in those whose Names we don’t know.
3. The belief in what we know from their Attributes, like that of Jibreel whom the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) saw in his genuine shape in which he was created, having six hundred wings, and covering the whole horizon. [5]
The angel may, by Allaah’s Command, take the form of a man as happened to Jibreel when Allaah sent Him to Maryam where he appeared to her in the form of a man in all respects. [6] Also when he came to the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) while he was sitting in the company of his Sahaabah. He (Jibreel) appeared in the form of man dressed in extremely white clothes, his hair exceedingly black; no signs of journeying were to be seen on him, and none of the Sahaabah knew him. He sat down by the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) resting his knees against his and placing the palms of his hands upon his thighs. He then asked the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) about Islaam, Eemaan, Ihsaan [7], the Hour (i.e. Day of Resurrection) and its Signs. The Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) answered his questions after which he left. Then the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) said: “That was Jibreel, who came to teach you your Deen.”
Similarly, the angels whom Allaah sent to Ibraaheem (alayhis-salaam) and Loot (alayhis-salaam) appeared in the form of men.
4. To believe in what we know of their deeds which they perform in compliance with the Command of Allaah (Ta’aalaa), like their Tasbeeh and worship of Allaah [8] day and night without boredom or slackness.
Some Angels May Have Specialized Tasks:
For example:
1. Jibreel: the Al-‘Ameen (the entrusted) on Allaah’s Revelation. He (Ta’aalaa) sends him to the Prophets and Messengers.
2. Mikaa’eel: In charge of Al-Qatr i.e. rainfall and plants. [9]
3. Israafeel: Responsible for the blowing of the Trumpet on the Day when the Hour will be established and creation will be resurrected. [10]
4. Malakul Mawt (The Angel of Death): Assigned to pull out the souls at the time of death. [11]
5. The angels appointed to the womb: When the embryo completes four months in the mother’s womb, Allaah send to him an angel and orders him to record his provision, his life term, his deeds, and whether he will be of the wretched or the blessed (in the Hereafter).
6. The angels appointed to watch and keep records of the deeds of the children of Adam (mankind): one sitting on the right and one on the left of each person. [12]
7. The angels assigned to question the dead once they are buried. Two angels come and ask him about his Rabb (Allaah), his religion, and his Prophet. [13]
The Belief in the Angels Yields Great Benefits, Amongst Them:
1. Being aware of Allaah’s Greatness, Power, and Authority. Certainly the greatness of creation (in this case the angels) is due to the Greatness of the Creator.
2. To give thanks to Allaah for His concern for the children of Adam whereby He assigned some of these angels to protect them and record their deed as well as other interests.
3. To love the angels for what they have done from worship to Allaah (Ta’aalaa).
Some of those who deviated (from the Straight Path) denied that the angels are genuine forms. They said that they represent the power of potential good in creation. This position belies the Book of Allaah, the Sunnah of His Messenger and the general consensus of Muslims.
Allaah (Ta’aalaa) said:
“All praise is due to Allaah, the (only) Originator (or Creator) of the heavens and the earth Who made the angels messengers with wings - two, three, and four.” [Qur’aan 35:1]
“And if you could see when the angels pull away the souls of the Kufaar (at death), they smite their faces and their backs.” [Qur’aan 8:50]
“And if you could but see when the Thaalimeen (polytheists, wrong-doers, etc.) are in the agonies of death, while the angels stretching forth their hands (saying): ‘Deliver your souls’.” [Qur’aan 6:93]
“Until when fear is banished from their (angels’) hearts, they (angels) say: ‘What is that your Rabb has said?’ They say: ‘The truth. And He is the Most High, the Great.’ ” [Qur’aan 34:23]
Allaah also said about the people of Al-Jannah that: “And the angels shall enter unto them from every gate (saying): ‘Salaam be upon you for that you persevered in patience. Excellent indeed is the final home.’ ” [Qur’aan 13:23-24]
The Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) said in the Hadeeth reported by Abu Hurairah (radhi-Allaahu ‘anhu) and collected in Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree: “If Allaah loves a person, He Calls Jibreel that: ‘Allaah loves so-and-so. O Jibreel! Love him.’ Jibreel would love him and make an announcement amongst the inhabitants of the heaven: ‘Allaah loves so-and-so, therefore you should love him also.’ The inhabitants of the heavens would love him, and then he is granted the pleasures of the people on the earth.” [14]
In the same book (Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree), the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) said: “On every Friday the angels take the stand at every gate of the mosque recording the names of the people one after the other (according to the time of their arrival for the Friday prayer), and when the Imaam sits (on the pulpit) they fold up their scrolls and get ready to listen to the Thikr (Khutba: the Friday speech).” [15]
The above texts clearly state that the angels are genuine forms (of creation) and not moral forces as those who deviated (from the Straight Path) say. The general consensus of the Muslims is in accordance with the above texts.
Footnotes:
[1] Al-Ghayb: Realities and domains beyond human perception. [TN]
[2] Which describes the ascent of the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) to the Heavens. See for example Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree, V.1, Hadeeth # 345, and V.5 Hadeeth no. 227. [TN]
[3] Al-Bait (The House) Al-Ma’moor (Inhabited): in the seventh heaven parable to the Ka’bah in Makkah, continuously visited by the angels. Ibn Katheer said: “It is the Ka’bah for the inhabitants of the seventh heaven.” See Tafseer Ibn Katheer (Qur’aan 52:4) and As-Silsalah As-Saheehah by Shaykh Naasir-ud-Deen Al-Albaanee, V.1, no. 477. [TN]
[4] Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree, V.4, Hadeeth no. 429.
[5] See Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree, V.4, Hadeeth nos. 455-457.
[6] See Qur’aan 19:17.
[7] When Jibreel (alayhis-salaam) asked the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) about Ihsaan, he (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) replied: “Ihsaan is to worship Allaah as though you are seeing Him, and while you see Him not yet truly He sees you.” For full account of this Hadeeth, see Saheeh Muslim, V.1, Hadeeth no. 47. [TN]
[8] Magnifying the Perfection of Allaah, Most High. [TN]
[9] See Al-Bidaayah wan-Nihaayah by Ibn Katheer, V.1, p.50. [TN]
[10] See Fathul Baaree by Ibn Hajr Al-Asqalaanee, V.11, p.368. [TN]
[11] Allaah (Ta’aalaa) said: “Say: ‘The angel of death, who is set over you, will take your souls, then you shall be brought to your Rabb.’ ” [Qur’aan 32:11] [TN]
[12] Allaah, the Exalted, said:
“But verily, over you (are appointed angels in charge of mankind) to watch you. (They) are honorable in Allaah’s Sight, writing down (your deeds). They know all that you do.” [Qur’aan 82:10-12]
“(Remember!) that the two Receivers (recording angels) receive, one sitting on the right and one on the left (to note his or her actions). Not a word does he (or she) utter. but there is a watcher by him (or her) (to record it).” [Qur’aan 50:17-18]
[13] When a dead person is buried, two black (looking) angels having blue eyes, one called Munkar and the other Nakeer, will come to him. They will ask about Allaah, the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa-sallam) and his religion. A Hadeeth related by At-Tirmidhee and Shaykh Al-Albaanee said it is hasan. See At-Tahaawiyyah, FN. no. 528, p.399, As-Saheehah, Hadeeth no. 1391, and At-Tabreezee’s Mushkaatul Massaabeeh, V.1, Hadeeth no. 130. [TN]
[14] Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree, V.4, Hadeeth no. 431.
[15] Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree, V.4, Hadeeth no. 433.
Taken from Explaining The Fundamentals Of Faith by Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saalih al-Uthaymeen translated by Dr. Saalih as-Saalih
Monday, September 21, 2009
Saturday, September 19, 2009
Women Going Out to the Eid Prayer
It is better for women to go out to the Eid prayer. This was enjoined by the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him).
Al-Bukhaari (324) and Muslim (890) narrated that Umm ‘Atiyyah (may Allaah be pleased with her) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) commanded us to bring them (women) out on (Eid) al-Fitr and (Eid) al-Adha, and to bring out adolescent girls, menstruating women and virgins, but the menstruating women were to stay away from the prayer, but were to witness goodness and the gathering of the Muslims. I said: “O Messenger of Allaah, what if one of us does not have a jilbaab?” He said: “Let her sister lend her a jilbab.”
Al-Haafiz said: This shows that it is mustahabb for women to come out and attend the Eid prayers, whether they are young or not.
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Al-Bukhaari (324) and Muslim (890) narrated that Umm ‘Atiyyah (may Allaah be pleased with her) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) commanded us to bring them (women) out on (Eid) al-Fitr and (Eid) al-Adha, and to bring out adolescent girls, menstruating women and virgins, but the menstruating women were to stay away from the prayer, but were to witness goodness and the gathering of the Muslims. I said: “O Messenger of Allaah, what if one of us does not have a jilbaab?” He said: “Let her sister lend her a jilbab.”
Al-Haafiz said: This shows that it is mustahabb for women to come out and attend the Eid prayers, whether they are young or not.
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 29
Narrated `Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her): Allâh's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said, Whoever died while leaving missed saum (fasts) from Ramadân, then his guardians must observe saum (fast) on his behalf. (Bukhari)
Friday, September 18, 2009
Wisdom Behind Fasting- Part 7
by Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-’Uthaimeen
From the wisdom behind fasting are the health benefits that come as a result of it, which are attained by in-taking little food, allowing the digestive system to rest for a specified time, which lets excess wastes and excrements that are harmful to the body be discharged.
So how great and profound is the wisdom of Allaah, and how beneficial are His commandments to His creatures!
O Allaah, give us comprehension of Your religion and allow us to understand the inner secrets of Your commandments. Rectify for us the affairs of our religion and our worldly life. And forgive us and our parents and all the Muslims, by Your mercy, O Most Merciful. And may the peace and blessings of Allaah be on Muhammad (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) and on his family and all his Companions.
Source:
Majaalis Shahr Ramadaan pgs. 41-43
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
From the wisdom behind fasting are the health benefits that come as a result of it, which are attained by in-taking little food, allowing the digestive system to rest for a specified time, which lets excess wastes and excrements that are harmful to the body be discharged.
So how great and profound is the wisdom of Allaah, and how beneficial are His commandments to His creatures!
O Allaah, give us comprehension of Your religion and allow us to understand the inner secrets of Your commandments. Rectify for us the affairs of our religion and our worldly life. And forgive us and our parents and all the Muslims, by Your mercy, O Most Merciful. And may the peace and blessings of Allaah be on Muhammad (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) and on his family and all his Companions.
Source:
Majaalis Shahr Ramadaan pgs. 41-43
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 28
Narrated Ibn `Abbâs (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet (may peace be upon him) was cupped (process of removing bad blood with a vacuum and a cup) while he was in the state of Ihrâm, and also while he was observing a Saum (fast). (Al Bukhari)
Thursday, September 17, 2009
Laylat Al-Qadr
Allaah has blessed Ramadaan with Laylat al-Qadr. Explaining the great status of this blessed night, Surat al-Qadr was revealed, and there are many ahaadeeth which also speak of that, such as the hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) who said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “There has come to you Ramadaan, a blessed month which Allaah has enjoined you to fast, during which the gates of heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed, and the rebellious devils are chained up. In it there is a night which is better than a thousand months, and whoever is deprived of its goodness is indeed deprived.” Narrated by al-Nasaa’i, 2106; Ahmad, 8769. Classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Targheeb, 999.
And Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever spends Laylat al-Qadr in prayer out of faith and in the hope of reward, will be forgiven his previous sins.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1910; Muslim, 760.
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
And Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever spends Laylat al-Qadr in prayer out of faith and in the hope of reward, will be forgiven his previous sins.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1910; Muslim, 760.
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 27
Ibn 'Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) forbade uninterrupted fasting (Saum Wisal – fasting for more than one day in a row). They (some of the Companions) said: You yourself fast uninterruptedly, whereupon he said: I am not like you. I am fed and supplied drink by Allah. (Muslim)
Wednesday, September 16, 2009
Sharh As-Siyaam Wa Al-Qiyaam- Part 4
Khutbah by Shaykh Abdullah Azzaam (may Allah have mercy on him)
So, when the Fajr time enters, go to the mosque and pray there. And try, if you do not have work, to not sleep during the time between Fajr and sunrise: “For me to sit with a group of people after the morning prayer, remembering Allah - the Mighty and Majestic - until the sun rises is more beloved to me than freeing four slaves from the children of Isma’il...” (Reported by Abu Dawud)
After this, go and rest until midday. From midday until ‘Asr, attend to the needs of your family.
Try to generally decrease in eating, drinking, and consuming sweets, keeping in mind that you are surrounded by widows, children, and orphans who are unable to plain rice. Set aside your sweets, bread, and rice for such people.
Your women are also in need of cleansing their souls, and they are in need of freeing themselves for the recitation of the Qur’an and worship. Their preoccupation with preparing food is a preoccupation from the essential activities of Ramadan; it is a preoccupation from istighfar, recitation, and worship. So, if you pray the ‘Asr, and you have no other obligations to keep you busy, seclude yourself in the mosque until the sun sets, and indulge in the recitation of the Qur’an: “...and for me to sit with a group of people after the ‘Asr prayer, remembering Allah - the Mighty and Majestic - until the sun sets is more beloved to me than freeing four slaves from the children of Isma’il.”
So, when it is time for Maghrib prayer, pray it, and return to your home.
This is a program that anyone can follow, either most or all of it. Pay close attention to these days, in particular, and pay attention to these hours. In Ramadan, there is no time for ‘he said, she said,’ or watching television, or socialization. Do not visit one another in your houses during the nights of Ramadan, as this constitutes wasting and theft of time of this blessed month. There is the mosque in which you are able to meet and chat in after praying Tarawih, and any of your brothers who need something from you, your meeting place is in the mosque, and your place of departure is the mosque. Do not preoccupy the people with your presence in their homes during the nights of Ramadan...”
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
So, when the Fajr time enters, go to the mosque and pray there. And try, if you do not have work, to not sleep during the time between Fajr and sunrise: “For me to sit with a group of people after the morning prayer, remembering Allah - the Mighty and Majestic - until the sun rises is more beloved to me than freeing four slaves from the children of Isma’il...” (Reported by Abu Dawud)
After this, go and rest until midday. From midday until ‘Asr, attend to the needs of your family.
Try to generally decrease in eating, drinking, and consuming sweets, keeping in mind that you are surrounded by widows, children, and orphans who are unable to plain rice. Set aside your sweets, bread, and rice for such people.
Your women are also in need of cleansing their souls, and they are in need of freeing themselves for the recitation of the Qur’an and worship. Their preoccupation with preparing food is a preoccupation from the essential activities of Ramadan; it is a preoccupation from istighfar, recitation, and worship. So, if you pray the ‘Asr, and you have no other obligations to keep you busy, seclude yourself in the mosque until the sun sets, and indulge in the recitation of the Qur’an: “...and for me to sit with a group of people after the ‘Asr prayer, remembering Allah - the Mighty and Majestic - until the sun sets is more beloved to me than freeing four slaves from the children of Isma’il.”
So, when it is time for Maghrib prayer, pray it, and return to your home.
This is a program that anyone can follow, either most or all of it. Pay close attention to these days, in particular, and pay attention to these hours. In Ramadan, there is no time for ‘he said, she said,’ or watching television, or socialization. Do not visit one another in your houses during the nights of Ramadan, as this constitutes wasting and theft of time of this blessed month. There is the mosque in which you are able to meet and chat in after praying Tarawih, and any of your brothers who need something from you, your meeting place is in the mosque, and your place of departure is the mosque. Do not preoccupy the people with your presence in their homes during the nights of Ramadan...”
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 26
Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (may peace be upon him) said: If any one of you is invited to a meal when he is fasting, he should say: I am fasting. (Muslim)
Tuesday, September 15, 2009
Wisdom Behind Fasting- Part 6
by Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-’Uthaimeen
From the wisdom of fasting is that the soul is broken down and restricted from having pride, to the point that it humbles itself to the truth and softens itself before the creation. This is because eating, drinking and having sexual intercourse with women - all of these things bring about insolence, arrogance, vanity and pride over people and over the truth. The soul preoccupies itself with trying to obtain these things because of its need for them. So when it obtains these things, the soul feels like it has conquered what it desired and so it falls into the happiness and proudness that is condemned. And this is a cause for its destruction. Only those whom Allaah protects are saved from this. And from the wisdom behind fasting is that the passageways of blood (in the body) become narrow due to hunger and thirst, so therefore the passageways of the Devil in the human body also become narrower. This is since the Devil flows through the son of Adam like the flowing of blood, as is authentically recorded in the two Saheeh collections.
So by fasting, the whisperings of the Devil are subdued and the strength of one’s desires and anger are subjugated. This is why the Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) said: “O young men! Whoever amongst you can afford it, should get married, for it is the best means for lowering one’s gaze and the best way of keeping (one’s) private parts chaste. But whoever is not able to marry, then let him fast, for it has protection.”
Source:
Majaalis Shahr Ramadaan pgs. 41-43
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
From the wisdom of fasting is that the soul is broken down and restricted from having pride, to the point that it humbles itself to the truth and softens itself before the creation. This is because eating, drinking and having sexual intercourse with women - all of these things bring about insolence, arrogance, vanity and pride over people and over the truth. The soul preoccupies itself with trying to obtain these things because of its need for them. So when it obtains these things, the soul feels like it has conquered what it desired and so it falls into the happiness and proudness that is condemned. And this is a cause for its destruction. Only those whom Allaah protects are saved from this. And from the wisdom behind fasting is that the passageways of blood (in the body) become narrow due to hunger and thirst, so therefore the passageways of the Devil in the human body also become narrower. This is since the Devil flows through the son of Adam like the flowing of blood, as is authentically recorded in the two Saheeh collections.
So by fasting, the whisperings of the Devil are subdued and the strength of one’s desires and anger are subjugated. This is why the Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) said: “O young men! Whoever amongst you can afford it, should get married, for it is the best means for lowering one’s gaze and the best way of keeping (one’s) private parts chaste. But whoever is not able to marry, then let him fast, for it has protection.”
Source:
Majaalis Shahr Ramadaan pgs. 41-43
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 25
Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: A person came to the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) and said: Messenger of Allah, I am ruined. He (the Prophet) asked: What has brought about your ruin? He said: I have had intercourse with my wife during the month of Ramadan. Upon this he (the Prophet) asked: Can you set a slave free? He said: No. He (the Prophet) again asked: Can you fast for two consecutive months? He said: No. He (the Prophet) asked: Can you provide food to sixty poor people? He said: No. He then sat down and (in the meanwhile) there was brought to the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) a basket which contained dates. He (the Prophet) said: Give these dates in Charity. He (the man) asked: Am I to give to one who is poorer than me? There is no family poorer than mine between the two lava plains of Medina. The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) laughed till his molar teeth became visible and said: Go and give it to your family to eat. (Muslim)
Monday, September 14, 2009
The Keys to the Life of the Heart
"The keys to the life of the heart lie in reflecting upon the Qur’an, being humble before Allah in secret, and leaving sins"
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 24
'A'ishah and Umm Salamah (may Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Prophet (may peace be upon him) woke up in the morning in a state of janabah (major impurity, i.e. after sexual relations with his wife) which was not due to the wet dream and then observed the Fast. (Muslim)
Sunday, September 13, 2009
Taqwa
‘Umar ibn ‘Abdul-Azeez said: “None can reach the state of Taqwa until he possesses neither actions nor words that can be exposed to his embarrassment, either in this world or the Hereafter.”
He was also once asked: “When does the worshipper reach the peak of Taqwa?” He replied: “If he puts all of the thoughts and desires in his heart on a plate, and then wandered around in the market, he should not feel ashamed of anything there.”
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
He was also once asked: “When does the worshipper reach the peak of Taqwa?” He replied: “If he puts all of the thoughts and desires in his heart on a plate, and then wandered around in the market, he should not feel ashamed of anything there.”
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 23
'A'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) narrated: The Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) kissed one of his wives while he was fasting, and then she ('A'ishah) smiled as she was narrating. (Muslim)
Saturday, September 12, 2009
Wisdom Behind Fasting- Part 5
by Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-’Uthaimeen
From the wisdom behind fasting is that the person who has wealth is caused to realize the blessing of wealth that Allaah has bestowed on him, such that Allaah blessed him with food, drink and sexual intercourse. Many people are deprived of these things, so he should praise Allaah for these blessings and thank Him for granting him them. And he should remember his brother who is poor and who probably goes through the day starved and hungry. So he should be generous to him and give him charity so that he can clothe his nudity and satisfy his hunger.
Source:
Majaalis Shahr Ramadaan pgs. 41-43
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
From the wisdom behind fasting is that the person who has wealth is caused to realize the blessing of wealth that Allaah has bestowed on him, such that Allaah blessed him with food, drink and sexual intercourse. Many people are deprived of these things, so he should praise Allaah for these blessings and thank Him for granting him them. And he should remember his brother who is poor and who probably goes through the day starved and hungry. So he should be generous to him and give him charity so that he can clothe his nudity and satisfy his hunger.
Source:
Majaalis Shahr Ramadaan pgs. 41-43
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 22
Narrated ‘Amir Bin Rabi’a (may Allah be pleased with him): I saw the Prophet (may peace be upon him) cleaning his teeth with Siwak (small branch of a tree) while he was fasting so many times as I cannot count. (Bukhari)
Friday, September 11, 2009
Sharh As-Siyaam Wa Al-Qiyaam- Part 3
Khutbah by Shaykh Abdullah Azzaam (may Allah have mercy on him)
So, brothers, whoever of you stays in Peshawar, then let him comply with the following daily program:
Do not stay up late in Ramadan, as Ramadan is the time of praying, fasting, and seeking Allah’s forgiveness during the morning hours. So, break your fast in your homes on some dates or water, or in the mosque, and provide some dates and water in the mosques for those who might break their fast there, and glad tidings to the one who provides food for the one breaking his fast: “Whoever provides food for the fasting person, then, he will have the same reward as the fasting person, without the fasting person’s reward being diminished at all,” even if it is only on a piece of a date, so, for this, let the competitors compete for this great reward.
Comply with this program, and it is easy: break your fast in the mosque, then pray the Maghrib. Return to your homes, eat as much as Allah has Willed for you to eat, and after that, make istighfar while you are awaiting the time for ‘Isha’. Then, pray the ‘Isha’ and Tarawih in the mosque, then, return to your homes. Eat the suhur, and be particular about this time. In addition to it being a blessed meal, the best time to make istighfar is in these early morning hours.
So, after the suhur, rush to make ablution and perform some Tahajjud, and increase in your connection with the Lord of Glory: “Our Lord descends to the lowest heaven during the last third of the night, Asking: ‘Who will call on Me so that I may respond to him? Who is asking something of Me so I may give it to him? Who is asking for My forgiveness so I may forgive him?”
Take advantage of these times - the early morning hours - in which an answered supplication is almost certain.
“Those who are patient, those who are true, the obedient with sincere devotion in worship to Allah, and those who in the Way of Allah, and those who pray and beg Allah’s Pardon in the last hours of the night.” (Al ‘Imran; 17)
“They used to sleep but little by night, and in the hours before dawn, they were asking for forgiveness.” (adh-Dhariyat; 17-18)
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
So, brothers, whoever of you stays in Peshawar, then let him comply with the following daily program:
Do not stay up late in Ramadan, as Ramadan is the time of praying, fasting, and seeking Allah’s forgiveness during the morning hours. So, break your fast in your homes on some dates or water, or in the mosque, and provide some dates and water in the mosques for those who might break their fast there, and glad tidings to the one who provides food for the one breaking his fast: “Whoever provides food for the fasting person, then, he will have the same reward as the fasting person, without the fasting person’s reward being diminished at all,” even if it is only on a piece of a date, so, for this, let the competitors compete for this great reward.
Comply with this program, and it is easy: break your fast in the mosque, then pray the Maghrib. Return to your homes, eat as much as Allah has Willed for you to eat, and after that, make istighfar while you are awaiting the time for ‘Isha’. Then, pray the ‘Isha’ and Tarawih in the mosque, then, return to your homes. Eat the suhur, and be particular about this time. In addition to it being a blessed meal, the best time to make istighfar is in these early morning hours.
So, after the suhur, rush to make ablution and perform some Tahajjud, and increase in your connection with the Lord of Glory: “Our Lord descends to the lowest heaven during the last third of the night, Asking: ‘Who will call on Me so that I may respond to him? Who is asking something of Me so I may give it to him? Who is asking for My forgiveness so I may forgive him?”
Take advantage of these times - the early morning hours - in which an answered supplication is almost certain.
“Those who are patient, those who are true, the obedient with sincere devotion in worship to Allah, and those who in the Way of Allah, and those who pray and beg Allah’s Pardon in the last hours of the night.” (Al ‘Imran; 17)
“They used to sleep but little by night, and in the hours before dawn, they were asking for forgiveness.” (adh-Dhariyat; 17-18)
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 21
Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: If anyone forgets that he is fasting and eats or drinks, he should complete his Fast (i.e. don’t stop fasting) for it was Allah Who fed him and gave him drink. (Muslim)
Thursday, September 10, 2009
Two Types of Knowledge
Shaykh al-Islaam lbn Taymiyyah states: “...this is why it is said, ‘Knowledge is of two types: knowledge in the heart and knowledge upon the tongue. The knowledge in the heart is the beneficial knowledge and the knowledge upon the tongue is the proof of Allaah upon His slaves” (This is a statement of al-Hasan al-Basree, may Allaah have mercy upon him, and it is recorded by ad-Daarimee (1/102). Shaykh al-Islaam mentioned this in al-Fataawa and attributed it to al-Hasan, see: 7/23.) … so the faqeeh whose heart has acquired understanding and enlightenment is not like the khateeb who addresses with his tongue. The heart may attain great matters of knowledge and understanding and its occupier may not speak of it to anyone. Similarly, one may speak about many issues concerning the heart and its states and the person may be at the same time void and bare of such matters.
Source:
Dar’ at-Ta’aarud 7/453-454
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Source:
Dar’ at-Ta’aarud 7/453-454
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 20
Narrated `Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her), the wife of the Prophet (may peace be upon him): While Allâh's Messenger (may peace be upon him) was in I’tikaf (seclusion in the mosque) he used to put his head in the house (their house was right next to the Prophet’s mosque) so that I could comb and oil his hair. Whenever he was in I`tikâf he never used to enter the house except for an urgent need. (Bukhari)
Wednesday, September 9, 2009
What Exactly is Hawaa?
The meaning of hawaa is the loving and the loathing which is in the self. It is not in and of itself blameworthy, since it is not under the control of the person, rather what is blameworthy is the following of these likes, desires and dislikes.
Allah said to Dawood: (O Dawood, we have made you a successor on the Earth, so rule between the people with the truth, and do not follow hawaa lest it lead you astray from the path of Allah.) Qur’an 38/26
And Allah said in another ayah: (And who is more astray than the one who follows his hawaa without guidance from Allah?) Qur’an 28/50
The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) tells us in the hadith: “Three things which save: fear of Allah in public and private, moderation in poverty and in wealth, and speaking the truth when angry and when contented. And three things which lead to destruction: obedience to greed, following of hawaa, and a person’s being pleased with himself.”
The love and the hate of which we are speaking brings about certain “tastes” and feelings and desires in the presence of the loved or hated thing. Whoever follows these desires and feelings without an order from Allah and His Prophet, is the one described as the follower of his hawaa. In fact, this may even reach the level of shirk wherein he takes as his god his own hawaa! (See Qur`an 43/25)
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Allah said to Dawood: (O Dawood, we have made you a successor on the Earth, so rule between the people with the truth, and do not follow hawaa lest it lead you astray from the path of Allah.) Qur’an 38/26
And Allah said in another ayah: (And who is more astray than the one who follows his hawaa without guidance from Allah?) Qur’an 28/50
The Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) tells us in the hadith: “Three things which save: fear of Allah in public and private, moderation in poverty and in wealth, and speaking the truth when angry and when contented. And three things which lead to destruction: obedience to greed, following of hawaa, and a person’s being pleased with himself.”
The love and the hate of which we are speaking brings about certain “tastes” and feelings and desires in the presence of the loved or hated thing. Whoever follows these desires and feelings without an order from Allah and His Prophet, is the one described as the follower of his hawaa. In fact, this may even reach the level of shirk wherein he takes as his god his own hawaa! (See Qur`an 43/25)
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 19
Narrated `Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) the wife of the Prophet (may peace be upon him): The Prophet (may peace be upon him) used to practice I`tikâf (seclusion in the mosque) in the last ten days of Ramadân till he died and then his wives used to practice I`tikâf after him. (Al Bukhari)
Tuesday, September 8, 2009
What Good is There?
Ibn Al-Qayyim said, “What good is there in a person who sees the sacred things of Allah being violated, His limits transgressed, His religion forsaken, the Sunnah of His Messenger neglected, and yet he remains indifferent, with a ‘cold heart’ and silenced tongue, like a silent devil.
Such people, besides being despised by Allah, have been afflicted by the worst disease, namely the death of their hearts.
For the more the heart is alive and vibrant, the more its anger for the sake of Allah and His Messenger is felt, and the stronger and more complete its support for the Deen.”
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Such people, besides being despised by Allah, have been afflicted by the worst disease, namely the death of their hearts.
For the more the heart is alive and vibrant, the more its anger for the sake of Allah and His Messenger is felt, and the stronger and more complete its support for the Deen.”
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 18
Narrated Ibn `Abbâs (may Allah be pleased with him): The Prophet (may peace be upon him) said, Look for the lailat of Qadr (the night of power) in the last ten nights of Ramadân - on the night when nine or seven or five nights remain out of the last ten nights of Ramadân ((i.e. 21, 23, 25, 27, 29,) respectively). (Bukhari)
Monday, September 7, 2009
Ramadan in History- Part 2
by Dr. Abdullah Hakim Quick
In 6 A.H., Zayd ibn Haritha was sent to Wadi al-Qura at the head of a detachment to confront Fatimah bint Rabiah, the queen of that area. Fatimah had previously attacked a caravan led by Zayd and had succeeded in plundering its wealth. She was known to be the most protected woman in Arabia, as she hung fifty swords of her close relatives in her home.
Fatimah was equally renowned for showing open hostility to Islam. She was killed in a battle against these Muslims in the month of Ramadan.
Such was the month of Ramadan in the time of the Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him). It was a time of purification, enjoining the good, forbidding evil, and striving hard with one’s life and wealth. After the death of the Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him), Muslims carried on this tradition and Allah used the true believers to affect the course of history. Ramadan continued to be a time of great trials and crucial events.
Ninety-two years after the Hijrah, Islam had spread across North Africa, Iran, Afghanistan, Yemen and Syria. Spain was under the tyrannical rule of King Roderic of the Visigoths.
Roderic had forced his six million serfs and persecuted Jews to seek the aid of the Muslims of North Africa in order to be delivered. Musa ibn Husair, the Umayyad governor of North Africa, responded by sending his courageous general Tariq ibn Ziyad at the head of 12,000 Berber and Arab troops In Ramadan of that year, they were confronted with a combined Visigoth army of 90,000 Christians led by Roderic, himself, who was seated on a throne of ivory, silver, and precious gems and drawn by white mules. Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) manifested a clear victory over the forces of disbelief. Not only was Roderic and his forces completely annihilated, but Tariq and Musa succeeded in liberating the whole of Spain, Sicily and of France. This was the beginning of the Golden Age of Al-Andalus where Muslims ruled for over 700 years.
In the year 682 A.H., Salahuddin al-Ayyubi, after battling with the Crusaders for years, finally drove them out of Syria and the whole of their occupied lands in the month of Ramadan. The Muslim world was then destined to meet one of its most frightening challenges.
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
In 6 A.H., Zayd ibn Haritha was sent to Wadi al-Qura at the head of a detachment to confront Fatimah bint Rabiah, the queen of that area. Fatimah had previously attacked a caravan led by Zayd and had succeeded in plundering its wealth. She was known to be the most protected woman in Arabia, as she hung fifty swords of her close relatives in her home.
Fatimah was equally renowned for showing open hostility to Islam. She was killed in a battle against these Muslims in the month of Ramadan.
Such was the month of Ramadan in the time of the Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him). It was a time of purification, enjoining the good, forbidding evil, and striving hard with one’s life and wealth. After the death of the Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him), Muslims carried on this tradition and Allah used the true believers to affect the course of history. Ramadan continued to be a time of great trials and crucial events.
Ninety-two years after the Hijrah, Islam had spread across North Africa, Iran, Afghanistan, Yemen and Syria. Spain was under the tyrannical rule of King Roderic of the Visigoths.
Roderic had forced his six million serfs and persecuted Jews to seek the aid of the Muslims of North Africa in order to be delivered. Musa ibn Husair, the Umayyad governor of North Africa, responded by sending his courageous general Tariq ibn Ziyad at the head of 12,000 Berber and Arab troops In Ramadan of that year, they were confronted with a combined Visigoth army of 90,000 Christians led by Roderic, himself, who was seated on a throne of ivory, silver, and precious gems and drawn by white mules. Allah (subhanahu wa ta’ala) manifested a clear victory over the forces of disbelief. Not only was Roderic and his forces completely annihilated, but Tariq and Musa succeeded in liberating the whole of Spain, Sicily and of France. This was the beginning of the Golden Age of Al-Andalus where Muslims ruled for over 700 years.
In the year 682 A.H., Salahuddin al-Ayyubi, after battling with the Crusaders for years, finally drove them out of Syria and the whole of their occupied lands in the month of Ramadan. The Muslim world was then destined to meet one of its most frightening challenges.
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 17
Narrated Abû Sa`id (may Allah be pleased with him) about the Night of Qadr, he said: We practiced I`tikâf (seclusion in the mosque) in the middle third of the month of Ramadân with the Prophet (may peace be upon him). In the morning of the 20th of Ramadan, the Prophet (may peace be upon him) came and addressed us and said, I was informed of the date of the Night of Qadr but I was caused to forget it; so search for it in the odd nights of the last ten nights of the month of Ramadân … (Al Bukhari)
Sunday, September 6, 2009
Wisdom Behind Fasting- Part 4
by Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-’Uthaimeen
From the wisdom behind fasting is that it trains one to curb the soul, and it gives one strength to withhold his soul by its bridle, such that one can govern it and lead it towards that which is good for it and what will make it prosper. This is because the soul commands one to do evil, except for those souls that my Lord has mercy on. So when a person undoes and lets go of his (soul’s) bridle, the soul lands him into many dangers. But when he controls it and curbs it, he is able to lead it to the highest of levels and the greatest of goals.
Source:
Majaalis Shahr Ramadaan pgs. 41-43
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
From the wisdom behind fasting is that it trains one to curb the soul, and it gives one strength to withhold his soul by its bridle, such that one can govern it and lead it towards that which is good for it and what will make it prosper. This is because the soul commands one to do evil, except for those souls that my Lord has mercy on. So when a person undoes and lets go of his (soul’s) bridle, the soul lands him into many dangers. But when he controls it and curbs it, he is able to lead it to the highest of levels and the greatest of goals.
Source:
Majaalis Shahr Ramadaan pgs. 41-43
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 16
Narrated `Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her): With the start of the last ten days of Ramadân, the Prophet (may peace be upon him) used to tighten his waist-belt (i.e. work hard) and used to offer Salât (prayer) all the night, and used to keep his family awake for the Salât (prayers). (Al Bukhari)
Saturday, September 5, 2009
The Majority of Hellfire's Inhabitants
Ibn ‘Abbas radiyallahu anhu stated that the Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) said: “I looked into Hell-fire and the majority of its inhabitants were women who were ungrateful.”
It was asked, “Did they disbelieve in Allah and were ungrateful to Him?”
He (salallahu alaihi wa sallam) replied, “They were ungrateful to their husbands and were ungrateful for favors and good deeds done for them. If you had always been good to one of them and she saw something in you not to her likening, she would say: “I have never seen any good from you at all.” (Bukhari)
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
It was asked, “Did they disbelieve in Allah and were ungrateful to Him?”
He (salallahu alaihi wa sallam) replied, “They were ungrateful to their husbands and were ungrateful for favors and good deeds done for them. If you had always been good to one of them and she saw something in you not to her likening, she would say: “I have never seen any good from you at all.” (Bukhari)
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 15
'A'ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) reported: Hamzah bin 'Amr Al-Aslami asked the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) about Fasting on a journey, and he (the Prophet) said: If you wish to fast do so, and if you prefer to break your fast you may do so. (Muslim)
Friday, September 4, 2009
Hasten to Break the Fast
It is preferred for the fasting person to hasten in breaking the fast when the sun has set. Sahl ibn Sad reported that the Prophet sallallaahu alayhi was sallam said: “The people will always be with the good as long as they hasten in breaking the fast.” This is related by al-Bukhari and Muslim.
The fast should be broken with an odd number of dates or, if that is not available, with some water. Anas reported: “The Messenger of Allah (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) would break his fast with ripe dates before he would pray. If those were not available, he would eat dried dates. If those were not available, he would drink some water.” This hadith is related by Abu Dawud and by al-Hakim, who called it sahih, and by at-Tirmidhi, who called it hassan.
Sulaiman ibn ‘Amr reported that the Prophet salla llaahu alayhi was sallam said: “If one of you is fasting, he should break his fast with dates. If dates are not available, then with water, for water is purifying.” This is related by Ahmad and by at-Tirmidhi, who called it hassan sahih.
A supplication for breaking the fast is: “The thirst is gone, the veins have been moistened, and the reward is assured, if Allah Wills.” (Dhahaba al-dhama’, wa abtallat al-‘uruq, wa thabat al-ajr, in Sha’ Allah) This was reported by Abu Dawud, and al-Albani included it in ‘Sahih al-Jami’.’
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
The fast should be broken with an odd number of dates or, if that is not available, with some water. Anas reported: “The Messenger of Allah (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) would break his fast with ripe dates before he would pray. If those were not available, he would eat dried dates. If those were not available, he would drink some water.” This hadith is related by Abu Dawud and by al-Hakim, who called it sahih, and by at-Tirmidhi, who called it hassan.
Sulaiman ibn ‘Amr reported that the Prophet salla llaahu alayhi was sallam said: “If one of you is fasting, he should break his fast with dates. If dates are not available, then with water, for water is purifying.” This is related by Ahmad and by at-Tirmidhi, who called it hassan sahih.
A supplication for breaking the fast is: “The thirst is gone, the veins have been moistened, and the reward is assured, if Allah Wills.” (Dhahaba al-dhama’, wa abtallat al-‘uruq, wa thabat al-ajr, in Sha’ Allah) This was reported by Abu Dawud, and al-Albani included it in ‘Sahih al-Jami’.’
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 14
Jabir bin 'Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: In the course of a journey, Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) saw a man whom the people were crowding around and providing some shade. Upon this, he (the Prophet) asked: What is the matter with him? They said: He is a person observing Fast. Whereupon the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him) said: It is not righteousness that you fast while you are traveling. (Muslim)
Thursday, September 3, 2009
True Promise of a Powerful King
Shaddad Ibn `Amr said: “The Hereafter is a true promisewhere a powerful king will judge between the people. The life of this world is full of vanities that are available for both the pious and the sinner. There is no plea for him who hears and disobeys, and no plea against him who hears and obeys. Don’t take the life of this world as a valuable thing because it spares none, and don’t reject it because the Hereafter can be obtained only through the life of this world.”
Source:
The Life of This World is a Transient Shade by Abdul Malik Al-Qasim
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Source:
The Life of This World is a Transient Shade by Abdul Malik Al-Qasim
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 13
Zaid Bin Thabit (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated: We took Sahur (light meal before the break of dawn) with the Messenger of Allah (may peace be upon him), we then stood up for prayer. I said, how much time was there between the two acts, he said, the time it takes to recite fifty verses of the Qur’an. (Muslim)
Wednesday, September 2, 2009
Wisdom Behind Fasting- Part 3
by Shaykh Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-’Uthaimeen
From the wisdom behind fasting is that the heart opens to contemplation and remembrance (of Allaah). This is since fulfilling one’s desires leads to heedlessness and perhaps the heart becomes hardened and blinded from the truth. This is why the Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) advised us to eat and drink little, where he said: “The Son of Aadam does not fill a vessel worse than his stomach.” (Reported by Ahmad, An-Nasaa’ee and Ibn Maajah)
Source:
Majaalis Shahr Ramadaan pgs. 41-43
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
From the wisdom behind fasting is that the heart opens to contemplation and remembrance (of Allaah). This is since fulfilling one’s desires leads to heedlessness and perhaps the heart becomes hardened and blinded from the truth. This is why the Prophet (may the Blessing and Peace of Allah be upon him) advised us to eat and drink little, where he said: “The Son of Aadam does not fill a vessel worse than his stomach.” (Reported by Ahmad, An-Nasaa’ee and Ibn Maajah)
Source:
Majaalis Shahr Ramadaan pgs. 41-43
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 12
Anas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: Allah's Messenger (may peace be upon him) said: Take Suhur (small meal before dawn); for in the Suhur there is a blessing. (Muslim)
Tuesday, September 1, 2009
The Qur'an
It was narrated that Buraydah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: I heard the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) say: “The Qur’aan will meet its companion on the Day of Resurrection when his grave is opened for him, in the form of a pale man. It will say to him, ‘Do you recognize me?’ He will say: ‘I do not recognize you.’ It will say: ‘I am your companion the Qur’aan, who kept you thirsty on hot days and kept you awake at night. Every merchant benefits from his business and today you will benefit from your good deeds.’ He will be given dominion in his right hand and eternity in his left, and there will be placed on his head a crown of dignity, and his parents will be clothed with priceless garments the like of which have never been seen in this world. They will say: ‘Why have we been clothed with this?’ It will be said: ‘Because your son used to recite Qur’aan.’ Then it will be said to him: ‘Recite and ascend in the degrees of Paradise,’ and he will continue to ascend so long as he recites, either at a fast pace or a slow pace .”
Narrated by Ahmad in al-Musnad (394) and Ibn Maajah in al-Sunan (3781); classed as hasan by al-Busayri in al-Zawaa’id and by al-Albaani in al-Silsilah al-Saheehah (2829).
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Narrated by Ahmad in al-Musnad (394) and Ibn Maajah in al-Sunan (3781); classed as hasan by al-Busayri in al-Zawaa’id and by al-Albaani in al-Silsilah al-Saheehah (2829).
Taken from Benefit of the Day- Ramadan 1429
Ramadan Hadith- Day 11
Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported: When anyone of you gets up in the morning in a state of Fasting, he should neither have sexual relations with his wife, nor use obscene language or do any act of ignorance. And if anyone slanders him or quarrels with him, he should say: "I am fasting, I am fasting." (Muslim)
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