Wednesday, August 31, 2011
Eid, Muslim Days of Celebration by Sabrina F.
Here is an article I wrote for my high school newspaper my senior year (2010-2011) about Ramadan, Eid, and Islam.
Have you heard any of your classmates say they were fasting? Most likely they are Muslim, a follower of the religion Islam. Did you have any questions in mind, like what is the importance of fasting in a Muslim’s life, who is required to fast, or what is Eid?
For starters, Ramadan is the 9th month of the lunar calendar, beginning with the sighting of the new moon. During this month, Muslims all over the world, no matter what nationality they are, where they live, their gender, etc. stay away from food, drink, and for married couples, any sexual relations, from sunrise to sunset for about 29-30 days, depending on the sighting of the next moon. (Before sunrise and after sunset each day, Muslims can go back to these). After the declaration of faith (Shahadah) and performing the five daily prayers on time (Salaat), fasting is the third of five pillars of Islam. The last two pillars are paying Zakat and going for Hajj. These five specific rites are the foundations of a Muslim’s life.
For obligatory fasts, a person must be a Muslim who has reached puberty, is of sane body and mind, and is not traveling. On the other hand, there are exceptions to people who do not have to fast in Ramadan, but have to makeup for missed fasts before the next Ramadan. Reasons where fasting is optional includes; if a person is traveling (who doesn’t have the intention to not fast), is sick (if harmful to their health), or women who are pregnant or nursing (if they or their child will be in danger).
Lessons to be learnt in Ramadan are numerous. One lesson is to become God (Allah) conscious, or being mindful that God is always aware of what we do. As Allah says in the holy book of Islam (Quran), "O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed upon those before you in order that you may attain God consciousness (taqwa)." (Quran, 2:183).
Another important lesson is learning self control and discipline. This is obvious if one is abstaining from a natural human desire like eating. Ramadan is also a good time to give up bad habits and replace them with good ones and implement good manners. An authentic narration of Prophet Muhammad's (hadith) says, “Whoever does not give up telling lies (false statements) and acting on those lies, and any evil actions, Allah is not in need of him leaving his food and drink” (i.e. Allah will not accept his fasting) (Sahih Bukhari).
Learning to become patient and charitable should also be goals to achieve in Ramadan and continue throughout the rest of the year. As humans, we should know to not take things for granted and be thankful to God for everything we have. Recognizing God’s blessings is something a Muslim realizes after a day of fasting! Getting the feeling of what the less fortunate have to go through without daily necessities such as food and drink is something we should all show appreciation for towards God, and what better way to show gratitude then obeying God in what he told us to do (such as fasting) and abstaining from what he has forbidden (such as associating partners with him).
The sighting of the new moon ends Ramadan. The next day known as Eid-ul-Fitr, or the festival of breaking fast, is a day when Muslims in the community come together at the masjid (Muslim house of worship) for prayers. Muslims wear new clothes, give each other gifts, and share meals with family, friends, and the needy. A compulsory charity (Zakat) from personal possessions such a gold or silver, money, livestock, agricultural produce, or business commodities must be given by Muslims prior to the end of Ramadan for the benefit of the less fortunate so they can also join in the Eid celebration.
When asked what she looks forward to on Eid, senior J.C. replied, "the cultural food". Some other responses to what they look forward to included; dressing up, getting presents, family coming together, and going out with friends.
The second Muslim celebration, called Eid-ul-Adha (festival of sacrifice), ends the pilgrimage to Makkah, Saudi Arabia (Hajj) that Muslims must make at least once in their lifetime if they are physically and financially able. During the trip, Muslims travel to many locations and perform certain rites, such as going around the Kabah and between two mountains as Hajar (Ibrahim’s wife) did during her search for water for her son Isma'il, among many other rites. The pilgrimage ends with Eid ul-Adha, which is celebrated with prayers, the sacrifice of an animal, and the exchange of greetings and gifts in Muslim communities everywhere.
New Jersey is home to about a half million Muslims, and 100 masjids, according to the Council on American Islamic Relations. Thus, New Jersey districts should accommodate for Muslim students having a day off for both Eids, just as Paterson, Atlantic City, Trenton, Piscataway, Prospect Park, and others have done.
Check out http://www.fastramadan.com/index.php, http://www.2eids.com/, and http://www.performhajj.com/ for information on Ramadan, Eid, and Hajj, and also my blog at http://learnislam2day.blogspot.com/ for information about Islam and Muslims.
Have you heard any of your classmates say they were fasting? Most likely they are Muslim, a follower of the religion Islam. Did you have any questions in mind, like what is the importance of fasting in a Muslim’s life, who is required to fast, or what is Eid?
For starters, Ramadan is the 9th month of the lunar calendar, beginning with the sighting of the new moon. During this month, Muslims all over the world, no matter what nationality they are, where they live, their gender, etc. stay away from food, drink, and for married couples, any sexual relations, from sunrise to sunset for about 29-30 days, depending on the sighting of the next moon. (Before sunrise and after sunset each day, Muslims can go back to these). After the declaration of faith (Shahadah) and performing the five daily prayers on time (Salaat), fasting is the third of five pillars of Islam. The last two pillars are paying Zakat and going for Hajj. These five specific rites are the foundations of a Muslim’s life.
For obligatory fasts, a person must be a Muslim who has reached puberty, is of sane body and mind, and is not traveling. On the other hand, there are exceptions to people who do not have to fast in Ramadan, but have to makeup for missed fasts before the next Ramadan. Reasons where fasting is optional includes; if a person is traveling (who doesn’t have the intention to not fast), is sick (if harmful to their health), or women who are pregnant or nursing (if they or their child will be in danger).
Lessons to be learnt in Ramadan are numerous. One lesson is to become God (Allah) conscious, or being mindful that God is always aware of what we do. As Allah says in the holy book of Islam (Quran), "O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed upon those before you in order that you may attain God consciousness (taqwa)." (Quran, 2:183).
Another important lesson is learning self control and discipline. This is obvious if one is abstaining from a natural human desire like eating. Ramadan is also a good time to give up bad habits and replace them with good ones and implement good manners. An authentic narration of Prophet Muhammad's (hadith) says, “Whoever does not give up telling lies (false statements) and acting on those lies, and any evil actions, Allah is not in need of him leaving his food and drink” (i.e. Allah will not accept his fasting) (Sahih Bukhari).
Learning to become patient and charitable should also be goals to achieve in Ramadan and continue throughout the rest of the year. As humans, we should know to not take things for granted and be thankful to God for everything we have. Recognizing God’s blessings is something a Muslim realizes after a day of fasting! Getting the feeling of what the less fortunate have to go through without daily necessities such as food and drink is something we should all show appreciation for towards God, and what better way to show gratitude then obeying God in what he told us to do (such as fasting) and abstaining from what he has forbidden (such as associating partners with him).
The sighting of the new moon ends Ramadan. The next day known as Eid-ul-Fitr, or the festival of breaking fast, is a day when Muslims in the community come together at the masjid (Muslim house of worship) for prayers. Muslims wear new clothes, give each other gifts, and share meals with family, friends, and the needy. A compulsory charity (Zakat) from personal possessions such a gold or silver, money, livestock, agricultural produce, or business commodities must be given by Muslims prior to the end of Ramadan for the benefit of the less fortunate so they can also join in the Eid celebration.
When asked what she looks forward to on Eid, senior J.C. replied, "the cultural food". Some other responses to what they look forward to included; dressing up, getting presents, family coming together, and going out with friends.
The second Muslim celebration, called Eid-ul-Adha (festival of sacrifice), ends the pilgrimage to Makkah, Saudi Arabia (Hajj) that Muslims must make at least once in their lifetime if they are physically and financially able. During the trip, Muslims travel to many locations and perform certain rites, such as going around the Kabah and between two mountains as Hajar (Ibrahim’s wife) did during her search for water for her son Isma'il, among many other rites. The pilgrimage ends with Eid ul-Adha, which is celebrated with prayers, the sacrifice of an animal, and the exchange of greetings and gifts in Muslim communities everywhere.
New Jersey is home to about a half million Muslims, and 100 masjids, according to the Council on American Islamic Relations. Thus, New Jersey districts should accommodate for Muslim students having a day off for both Eids, just as Paterson, Atlantic City, Trenton, Piscataway, Prospect Park, and others have done.
Check out http://www.fastramadan.com/index.php, http://www.2eids.com/, and http://www.performhajj.com/ for information on Ramadan, Eid, and Hajj, and also my blog at http://learnislam2day.blogspot.com/ for information about Islam and Muslims.
Sunday, August 28, 2011
The Night of Power
With the last ten days of Ramadan upon us, it is important for us as smart, practicing Muslimahs to take advantage of the blessings that Allah has bestowed on the night of Laylatul-Qadr.
The night is so important that an entire surah was dedicated to it in the Quran.
In the name of God, the Benevolent, the Merciful.
1 Indeed, We sent the Qur’an down during the Night of Power.
2 And what can make you know what the Night of Power is?
3 The Night of Power is better than a thousand months.
4 The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter.
5 Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.
(Surah 97: Ayah 1-5)
Sheikh Muhammad Alshareef gave 4 easy steps to utilize the reward that can be gained from this night:
Step 1: Go somewhere really beautiful, where no one can disturb you.
Step 2: Imagine Allah says to you, “Ask whatever you wish and I shall grant it to you.” Think of everything good you would ask for from this life and the next.
Step 3: After thinking of everything you can, sit down and write it out.
Step 4: Pick 5 things, your favorites, and consistently ask Allah for these 5 things every night in the last ten days. Your dua will be guaranteed to have landed on Laylatul-Qadr! How cool is that?
Along with making dua, I encourage my fellow brothers and sisters in Islam to do the following as well:
1. Wake up for tahajjud. Set your alarm to a little earlier than suhoor and pray as if you are standing in front of Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala. Concentrate on the meaning of what you recite. Pray as if you are praying your last prayer.
2. Read a little more Quran than you normally would. Remember: the Quran will be your witness on the Day of Judgment as to how much you read it. Would you want it to witness for you or against you?
3. This is a perfect time to ask for forgiveness and forgive others who have wronged you. Did you know forgiving others erases your sins? Did you know holding grudges is against Islam? Cleanse your heart and begin the year with a fresh start.
May Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala allow us to reap the rewards of the Night of Power, and may He grant us success in both this life and the next. Ameen!
Source: http://www.igotitcovered.org/2009/09/12/the-night-of-power/
The night is so important that an entire surah was dedicated to it in the Quran.
In the name of God, the Benevolent, the Merciful.
1 Indeed, We sent the Qur’an down during the Night of Power.
2 And what can make you know what the Night of Power is?
3 The Night of Power is better than a thousand months.
4 The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter.
5 Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.
(Surah 97: Ayah 1-5)
Sheikh Muhammad Alshareef gave 4 easy steps to utilize the reward that can be gained from this night:
Step 1: Go somewhere really beautiful, where no one can disturb you.
Step 2: Imagine Allah says to you, “Ask whatever you wish and I shall grant it to you.” Think of everything good you would ask for from this life and the next.
Step 3: After thinking of everything you can, sit down and write it out.
Step 4: Pick 5 things, your favorites, and consistently ask Allah for these 5 things every night in the last ten days. Your dua will be guaranteed to have landed on Laylatul-Qadr! How cool is that?
Along with making dua, I encourage my fellow brothers and sisters in Islam to do the following as well:
1. Wake up for tahajjud. Set your alarm to a little earlier than suhoor and pray as if you are standing in front of Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala. Concentrate on the meaning of what you recite. Pray as if you are praying your last prayer.
2. Read a little more Quran than you normally would. Remember: the Quran will be your witness on the Day of Judgment as to how much you read it. Would you want it to witness for you or against you?
3. This is a perfect time to ask for forgiveness and forgive others who have wronged you. Did you know forgiving others erases your sins? Did you know holding grudges is against Islam? Cleanse your heart and begin the year with a fresh start.
May Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala allow us to reap the rewards of the Night of Power, and may He grant us success in both this life and the next. Ameen!
Source: http://www.igotitcovered.org/2009/09/12/the-night-of-power/
Tuesday, August 23, 2011
Friday, August 19, 2011
7 Productive Tips for Iftar by Nasmeera Firdous
Breaking the fast with the right type of foods is crucial to keeping your body strong and healthy. While some people resort to junk foods (due to their convenience), others try to fill their stomach with countless varieties of dishes in order to make up for not eating the whole day. While the former is detrimental to the body and does more harm than good, the latter option of feasting also becomes detrimental to your mind and soul.
It is important to feed our bodies with the right type of foods, ensuring that we do not overdo it by binging during iftar.
So, here are 7 tips to consider for iftar:
1. Break your fast with dates and a glass of water
Dates are great for iftar because they provide a concentrated source of sugar and nutrients. Most importantly, it was the practice of our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him) to break the fast with dates.
Sulaiman ibn ‘Amr (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may peace and blessings be upon him) 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.” (Ahmad and at-Tirmidhi)
2. Consume carbohydrate-dense foods
Whole grains and cereals, and foods like these, provide the necessary calories and sugars that the body has been deprived of for the entire day. Use brown bread for preparing sandwiches. You can also consume pastas given their easy method of preparation. They provide wholesome nutrients, numerous vitamins and are good sources of fiber (which helps regulate bowel movements, and prevent constipation).
3. Do not binge during iftar
Your digestive system will take time to accept foods after being deprived of calories for an entire day, so remember to take it easy. Overeating could lead to gastrointestinal problems; a sudden intake of foods will force your stomach to produce numerous enzymes all at once, causing discomfort. Therefore, remember to eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly. Moreover, it is not Islamically healthy to overeat.
4. Incorporate liquids and consume more fluids
Drink sufficient quantities of water to prevent dehydration. Water will help flush out toxins and aid digestion. In addition, fresh fruit juices are excellent sources of sugars, vitamins and minerals. You can also consume chicken soups or stews; these are rich in protein, which helps in building tissue or muscle mass and prevents the body from getting exhausted easily. Soups are also a good source of nutrients and electrolytes which help prevent exhaustion and dehydration.
5. Avoid oily/fried foods
These take a longer time for digestion and make you feel full, but do not necessarily nourish you or provide nutrients. They are not an ideal option to consider for iftar (or in general). However, if you must, consume small portions at dinner time.
6. Hasten to break your fast
This isn’t so much a tip about what to break your fast with, but when to break your fast. Breaking the fast on time is an important aspect of Ramadan as delaying it unnecessarily is not recommended.
Sahl ibn Sa`d (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “The people will not cease to be upon good as long as they hasten in breaking the fast.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
7. Share the iftar meal
You can increase your blessings by providing iftar meals to your neighbors, relatives, the needy – any Muslim who is fasting!
Our Prophet (may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “He who gives food for a fasting person to break his fast, he will receive the same reward as him, except that nothing will be reduced from the fasting person’s reward.” (Ahmad, Ibn Majah, at-Tirmithi, Ibn Hibban, Sahih)
Fasting during the month of Ramadan gives us numerous opportunities to control our nafs, discipline our hearts and souls, helping us become more obedient towards Allah, the Exalted. It is also a time to look after and discipline our bodies. The take-home message is avoid binging during iftar but at the same time, make sure that your body is getting the right type of nutrients in the right amounts to prevent dehydration, exhaustion, fatigue or discomfort.
May the fasting break their fasts in your homes, and may your meals and homes be blessed. Ameen.
So which foods do you incorporate into your Ramadan diet to help maintain your productivity?
About the Author
Nasmeera Firdous is enthusiastic about eating healthy for a happy living and likes to write articles that would help people understand how they can lead a productive life by eating the right type of foods. She has undertaken postgraduate studies in Nutrition and Health.
Source: http://www.productiveramadan.com/7-productive-tips-for-iftar/
It is important to feed our bodies with the right type of foods, ensuring that we do not overdo it by binging during iftar.
So, here are 7 tips to consider for iftar:
1. Break your fast with dates and a glass of water
Dates are great for iftar because they provide a concentrated source of sugar and nutrients. Most importantly, it was the practice of our beloved Prophet (peace be upon him) to break the fast with dates.
Sulaiman ibn ‘Amr (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may peace and blessings be upon him) 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.” (Ahmad and at-Tirmidhi)
2. Consume carbohydrate-dense foods
Whole grains and cereals, and foods like these, provide the necessary calories and sugars that the body has been deprived of for the entire day. Use brown bread for preparing sandwiches. You can also consume pastas given their easy method of preparation. They provide wholesome nutrients, numerous vitamins and are good sources of fiber (which helps regulate bowel movements, and prevent constipation).
3. Do not binge during iftar
Your digestive system will take time to accept foods after being deprived of calories for an entire day, so remember to take it easy. Overeating could lead to gastrointestinal problems; a sudden intake of foods will force your stomach to produce numerous enzymes all at once, causing discomfort. Therefore, remember to eat slowly and chew your food thoroughly. Moreover, it is not Islamically healthy to overeat.
4. Incorporate liquids and consume more fluids
Drink sufficient quantities of water to prevent dehydration. Water will help flush out toxins and aid digestion. In addition, fresh fruit juices are excellent sources of sugars, vitamins and minerals. You can also consume chicken soups or stews; these are rich in protein, which helps in building tissue or muscle mass and prevents the body from getting exhausted easily. Soups are also a good source of nutrients and electrolytes which help prevent exhaustion and dehydration.
5. Avoid oily/fried foods
These take a longer time for digestion and make you feel full, but do not necessarily nourish you or provide nutrients. They are not an ideal option to consider for iftar (or in general). However, if you must, consume small portions at dinner time.
6. Hasten to break your fast
This isn’t so much a tip about what to break your fast with, but when to break your fast. Breaking the fast on time is an important aspect of Ramadan as delaying it unnecessarily is not recommended.
Sahl ibn Sa`d (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “The people will not cease to be upon good as long as they hasten in breaking the fast.” (Bukhari and Muslim)
7. Share the iftar meal
You can increase your blessings by providing iftar meals to your neighbors, relatives, the needy – any Muslim who is fasting!
Our Prophet (may peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “He who gives food for a fasting person to break his fast, he will receive the same reward as him, except that nothing will be reduced from the fasting person’s reward.” (Ahmad, Ibn Majah, at-Tirmithi, Ibn Hibban, Sahih)
Fasting during the month of Ramadan gives us numerous opportunities to control our nafs, discipline our hearts and souls, helping us become more obedient towards Allah, the Exalted. It is also a time to look after and discipline our bodies. The take-home message is avoid binging during iftar but at the same time, make sure that your body is getting the right type of nutrients in the right amounts to prevent dehydration, exhaustion, fatigue or discomfort.
May the fasting break their fasts in your homes, and may your meals and homes be blessed. Ameen.
So which foods do you incorporate into your Ramadan diet to help maintain your productivity?
About the Author
Nasmeera Firdous is enthusiastic about eating healthy for a happy living and likes to write articles that would help people understand how they can lead a productive life by eating the right type of foods. She has undertaken postgraduate studies in Nutrition and Health.
Source: http://www.productiveramadan.com/7-productive-tips-for-iftar/
The 10 Step Suhoor Routine by Nasmeera Firdous
Ramadan is one of the countless blessings bestowed by Allah (Subhanahu Wa Ta’ala) on this Ummah. An entire month to ask for forgiveness, learn about self control and become a better human being spiritually, physically and emotionally, Ramadan is a truly unique month.
The well known verse about Ramadan states: “O you who believe! Observing As-Saum (the fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqun (the pious).” (2:183)
Whilst Ramadan is about spiritual re-connection, there is a huge need to link it to our physical routine. Consuming the right types of food in the right amounts is important. Few think that fasting would exhaust them completely and hinder their work output although others look at Ramadan as an excellent opportunity to lose some quick pounds and get their desired weight and figure! Surprisingly, both notions are incorrect.
The pre-dawn meal (suhoor) is not obligatory, but it is a blessed part of fasting we shouldn’t abandon. Amr ibn al–Aas (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “The difference between our fasting and that of the people of the Book is eating shortly before dawn.”(Saheeh Muslim)
Anas bin Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Take suhoor as there is a blessing in it.” (Saheeh Bukhari and Muslim)
Aboo Saeed al–Khudree (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Taking the pre-dawn meal in Ramadan is a blessing, so do not leave it, even by drinking a mouthful of water. For Allah the Noble and the Mighty, and His angels send blessings over those who have taken the pre-dawn meal.” (Ahmad)
Skipping suhoor has become a norm amongst some these days. Some complain about lack of time, others are negligent and simply chose to ignore this huge blessing. However, here are some useful tips to plan a nutritious suhoor meal well in advance.
1. Begin with Remembrance of Allah
It is a beautiful iman boost, and what better way to start off your day; you’re starting off your day on the right foot, marked by spirituality and productivity. Shun lethargy and sleep with wudhu. It is one of the most effective ways to wash away your sins, and your sleep as well! Begin with the precious tahajjud prayer. This is one of the easiest ways to start your day “early”, giving you enough time to wake and up and remain alert.
2. Start with Dates
Start your meal with dates. Our Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “How excellent are dates as the believer’s suhoor”. [Abu Dawood, Ibn Hibban and al-Baihaqee; Sahih]
3. Include Whole-Wheat in Your Meal
Oats is one of the easiest foods to cook. It has numerous health benefits. It is filled with complex carbohydrates. These take time to break up inside your body. This is amazingly useful in releasing the right amount of calories at a slow rate, giving you energy throughout the day. This will prevent a quick burn up of calories, preventing you from feeling lethargic and tired during the day. Refined products on the other hand release calories at an extremely faster rate, making you feel hungry quickly, in turn making you tired and worn out.
4. AVOID Fried Foods!
This is the toughest step as many cultural dishes tend to go for the fried option – however create havoc for the digestive system! These foods will force the stomach to release numerous enzymes and will take a longer time for digestion. Heartburn and diarrhea are common symptoms associated with fried foods. They fill your stomach quickly, preventing you from eating further and so better to avoid it as best you can.
5. Mix of Fruits & Vegetables
You can cut different types of fruits (preferably with skin) and mix them up in a bowl to make a nice salad. Add a handful of different nuts like almonds, walnuts and cashew nuts. You can also drizzle some honey on top. You can also boil vegetables or consume them raw depending on your preferences. Fruits and vegetables are extremely rich in nutrients like vitamins and minerals. They are also very rich in antioxidants.
The latter prevents accumulation of free radicals (responsible for causing cancer and other detrimental changes in the body), and are extremely useful in protecting the body from numerous diseases and illnesses. Fruits and vegetables are natural sources of fiber, which is crucial in preventing constipation, a problem experienced by many during fasting. Fiber builds up roughage, helps in cleaning the bowel, and provides satiety and fullness while eating, making you feel satisfied and full.
6. A Glass of Milk & Honey
Milk is the drink of the Ummah, and the benefits of honey are numerous and have been noted in the Quran for medical benefits. We should appreciate the great blessing of honey.
7. NO Salty Foods in Your Diet
Salt removes excess water from the cells, making the cells dehydrated. This in turn makes your body dehydrated, making you feel thirsty very quickly. Salty foods or a high intake of salt is therefore not advisable while fasting so for those who like to sprinkle salt on everything – now’s the time to stop! Soups on the other hand fill your stomach but do not provide enough calories.
8. Water, Water, Water!
Avoid tea or coffee. These beverages are not preferred whilst fasting. They dehydrate the body and release toxins which in turn need to be flushed with water, and are therefore not advisable while fasting so drink water/juices instead.
9. Eggs in a Cup
Eggs are good to include in your diet, for those on a weight loss program, avoid egg yolk but include egg white in your meal. Consume them in boiled form or poached form. Do not fry them. Fish and chicken can also be consumed liberally; yogurt too is another good source of protein.
10. Use Cooking Olive Oil
It has many health benefits, and is tasty but use in moderation!
Always remember to plan your meal in advance. This way, you will be prepared and know what exactly you have to cook early in the morning. Eat right, and maintain a positive attitude to feel cheerful and energetic.
Enjoy the benefits of a blessed Ramadan and get your productivity soaring inshaAllah!
About the Author
Nasmeera Firdous is enthusiastic about eating healthy for a happy living and likes to write articles that would help people understand how they can lead a productive life by eating the right type of foods. She has undertaken postgraduate studies in Nutrition and Health.
Source: http://www.productiveramadan.com/the-10-step-suhoor-routine/
The well known verse about Ramadan states: “O you who believe! Observing As-Saum (the fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqun (the pious).” (2:183)
Whilst Ramadan is about spiritual re-connection, there is a huge need to link it to our physical routine. Consuming the right types of food in the right amounts is important. Few think that fasting would exhaust them completely and hinder their work output although others look at Ramadan as an excellent opportunity to lose some quick pounds and get their desired weight and figure! Surprisingly, both notions are incorrect.
The pre-dawn meal (suhoor) is not obligatory, but it is a blessed part of fasting we shouldn’t abandon. Amr ibn al–Aas (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “The difference between our fasting and that of the people of the Book is eating shortly before dawn.”(Saheeh Muslim)
Anas bin Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Take suhoor as there is a blessing in it.” (Saheeh Bukhari and Muslim)
Aboo Saeed al–Khudree (may Allah be pleased with him) narrated that the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Taking the pre-dawn meal in Ramadan is a blessing, so do not leave it, even by drinking a mouthful of water. For Allah the Noble and the Mighty, and His angels send blessings over those who have taken the pre-dawn meal.” (Ahmad)
Skipping suhoor has become a norm amongst some these days. Some complain about lack of time, others are negligent and simply chose to ignore this huge blessing. However, here are some useful tips to plan a nutritious suhoor meal well in advance.
1. Begin with Remembrance of Allah
It is a beautiful iman boost, and what better way to start off your day; you’re starting off your day on the right foot, marked by spirituality and productivity. Shun lethargy and sleep with wudhu. It is one of the most effective ways to wash away your sins, and your sleep as well! Begin with the precious tahajjud prayer. This is one of the easiest ways to start your day “early”, giving you enough time to wake and up and remain alert.
2. Start with Dates
Start your meal with dates. Our Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “How excellent are dates as the believer’s suhoor”. [Abu Dawood, Ibn Hibban and al-Baihaqee; Sahih]
3. Include Whole-Wheat in Your Meal
Oats is one of the easiest foods to cook. It has numerous health benefits. It is filled with complex carbohydrates. These take time to break up inside your body. This is amazingly useful in releasing the right amount of calories at a slow rate, giving you energy throughout the day. This will prevent a quick burn up of calories, preventing you from feeling lethargic and tired during the day. Refined products on the other hand release calories at an extremely faster rate, making you feel hungry quickly, in turn making you tired and worn out.
4. AVOID Fried Foods!
This is the toughest step as many cultural dishes tend to go for the fried option – however create havoc for the digestive system! These foods will force the stomach to release numerous enzymes and will take a longer time for digestion. Heartburn and diarrhea are common symptoms associated with fried foods. They fill your stomach quickly, preventing you from eating further and so better to avoid it as best you can.
5. Mix of Fruits & Vegetables
You can cut different types of fruits (preferably with skin) and mix them up in a bowl to make a nice salad. Add a handful of different nuts like almonds, walnuts and cashew nuts. You can also drizzle some honey on top. You can also boil vegetables or consume them raw depending on your preferences. Fruits and vegetables are extremely rich in nutrients like vitamins and minerals. They are also very rich in antioxidants.
The latter prevents accumulation of free radicals (responsible for causing cancer and other detrimental changes in the body), and are extremely useful in protecting the body from numerous diseases and illnesses. Fruits and vegetables are natural sources of fiber, which is crucial in preventing constipation, a problem experienced by many during fasting. Fiber builds up roughage, helps in cleaning the bowel, and provides satiety and fullness while eating, making you feel satisfied and full.
6. A Glass of Milk & Honey
Milk is the drink of the Ummah, and the benefits of honey are numerous and have been noted in the Quran for medical benefits. We should appreciate the great blessing of honey.
7. NO Salty Foods in Your Diet
Salt removes excess water from the cells, making the cells dehydrated. This in turn makes your body dehydrated, making you feel thirsty very quickly. Salty foods or a high intake of salt is therefore not advisable while fasting so for those who like to sprinkle salt on everything – now’s the time to stop! Soups on the other hand fill your stomach but do not provide enough calories.
8. Water, Water, Water!
Avoid tea or coffee. These beverages are not preferred whilst fasting. They dehydrate the body and release toxins which in turn need to be flushed with water, and are therefore not advisable while fasting so drink water/juices instead.
9. Eggs in a Cup
Eggs are good to include in your diet, for those on a weight loss program, avoid egg yolk but include egg white in your meal. Consume them in boiled form or poached form. Do not fry them. Fish and chicken can also be consumed liberally; yogurt too is another good source of protein.
10. Use Cooking Olive Oil
It has many health benefits, and is tasty but use in moderation!
Always remember to plan your meal in advance. This way, you will be prepared and know what exactly you have to cook early in the morning. Eat right, and maintain a positive attitude to feel cheerful and energetic.
Enjoy the benefits of a blessed Ramadan and get your productivity soaring inshaAllah!
About the Author
Nasmeera Firdous is enthusiastic about eating healthy for a happy living and likes to write articles that would help people understand how they can lead a productive life by eating the right type of foods. She has undertaken postgraduate studies in Nutrition and Health.
Source: http://www.productiveramadan.com/the-10-step-suhoor-routine/
Thursday, August 18, 2011
5 Steps to Control Your Anger
No matter how hard we try, each Ramadan we can easily ruin our good deeds and succumb to trivial arguments. In the article below you’ll learn how you can restrain yourself from getting into an argument this Ramadan, whether the man on the subway pushes past you or your family just drive you crazy during the day!
Fasting is your combat tool and the ultimate productivity technique to enhance our character, strengthen our sense of patience and generate a new found spiritual high. Allah (SWT) does not need you to leave your food and drink if you do not strive to leave harmful character traits.
Outlined below are 5 steps you can take to cool down before shaitan tries to trick you and make you miss out on multiple rewards.
1. Be calm and collected
Remember the hadith in Sahih Bukhari of the Prophet (peace be upon him) in which he said: “Fasting is a shield (or a screen or a shelter). So, the person observing fasting should avoid sexual relation with his wife and should not behave foolishly and impudently, and if somebody fights with him or abuses him, he should tell him twice, ‘I am fasting.” Training your soul is the key focus of the blessed month of Ramadan. Being patient in times of conflict will show greater perseverance and bring rewards so long as you remain calm and collected. [On this note, check out recent ProductiveRamadan Animation]
2. Seek refuge in Allah
Second step to control your temper, is to recite ‘audhoobillah’. Seek refuge in Allah (Subahanahu Wa Ta’ala) from shaitaan by reciting “Audhoobillahi min al-shaytaani al-rajeem” many times – it has a calming effect as you reflect on the situation. Many people have also found that the recital of Ayatul Kursi can beat shaitan’s attempts to put your guard down. You might say “I thought Shaytaan is locked up during Ramadan”, that’s true but that does not mean you are free from the evil influences of the jinn (see source below). They are weaker in Ramadan than in any other time of year so make it your utmost goal to be able to defeat the whispers of shaytan.
Allah (Subahanahu Wa Ta’la) says: “And if there comes to you from Satan an evil suggestion, then seek refuge in Allah. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Knowing.” (Qur’an, 41:36)
3. Be ready to overlook faults
When our temper reaches a limit, we feel anger in our hearts and this strains relationships. Be ready to forgive the person who has wronged you as it is one of the noblest deeds we can do in Islam. Remember we all make mistakes, and the sooner you accept that, you will forgive in your momentary lapse.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “The best of the two persons is the one who begins with salaam.” (Related by Nawawi in his book Al-Adkar)
4. Be on guard at all times
Step 4 is key to a successful Ramadan and is indeed to emulate the advice of the Prophet (peace be upon him) by using fasting as our shield. Always be conscious that Allah is All-Aware of our actions. Just as a soldier is on guard from the enemy you must also fight the battle with your mind, your body, and your tongue. Say twice: ‘I am fasting’ to yourself and to the one who provokes you.
5. Get up and leave
The last step might be more forceful if the man on the subway just doesn’t want to get out of your way! (It happens all too often in London :) If you still feel ready to explode into an argument, then get up and leave your surroundings or the person provoking you. We can become angry and hot-tempered, saying things we often look back and regret. Take that moment to leave the room immediately. You’ll return with a new outlook inshaAllah and refreshed approach which will make you less prone to arguing.
If you are standing up then be advised to sit down. Or if you’re sitting down – and still fuming then lie down. Research shows that our blood pressure reduces significantly when we sit or lie down. A teacher once also advised me that a cool glass of water can extinguish that hot-temper, but maybe after iftaar…
I hope these steps will help you next time you feel angry. Slot it into your Habitator if you’re feeling that tad bit impatient often. Nothing is easy unless Allah makes it easy for us, but strive hard for Allah (Subahanahu Wa Ta’la) will not change our condition until we change what is in ourselves.
http://www.islam-qa.com/en/ref/12653
Source: http://www.productiveramadan.com/5-steps-to-control-your-temper/
Fasting is your combat tool and the ultimate productivity technique to enhance our character, strengthen our sense of patience and generate a new found spiritual high. Allah (SWT) does not need you to leave your food and drink if you do not strive to leave harmful character traits.
Outlined below are 5 steps you can take to cool down before shaitan tries to trick you and make you miss out on multiple rewards.
1. Be calm and collected
Remember the hadith in Sahih Bukhari of the Prophet (peace be upon him) in which he said: “Fasting is a shield (or a screen or a shelter). So, the person observing fasting should avoid sexual relation with his wife and should not behave foolishly and impudently, and if somebody fights with him or abuses him, he should tell him twice, ‘I am fasting.” Training your soul is the key focus of the blessed month of Ramadan. Being patient in times of conflict will show greater perseverance and bring rewards so long as you remain calm and collected. [On this note, check out recent ProductiveRamadan Animation]
2. Seek refuge in Allah
Second step to control your temper, is to recite ‘audhoobillah’. Seek refuge in Allah (Subahanahu Wa Ta’ala) from shaitaan by reciting “Audhoobillahi min al-shaytaani al-rajeem” many times – it has a calming effect as you reflect on the situation. Many people have also found that the recital of Ayatul Kursi can beat shaitan’s attempts to put your guard down. You might say “I thought Shaytaan is locked up during Ramadan”, that’s true but that does not mean you are free from the evil influences of the jinn (see source below). They are weaker in Ramadan than in any other time of year so make it your utmost goal to be able to defeat the whispers of shaytan.
Allah (Subahanahu Wa Ta’la) says: “And if there comes to you from Satan an evil suggestion, then seek refuge in Allah. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Knowing.” (Qur’an, 41:36)
3. Be ready to overlook faults
When our temper reaches a limit, we feel anger in our hearts and this strains relationships. Be ready to forgive the person who has wronged you as it is one of the noblest deeds we can do in Islam. Remember we all make mistakes, and the sooner you accept that, you will forgive in your momentary lapse.
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “The best of the two persons is the one who begins with salaam.” (Related by Nawawi in his book Al-Adkar)
4. Be on guard at all times
Step 4 is key to a successful Ramadan and is indeed to emulate the advice of the Prophet (peace be upon him) by using fasting as our shield. Always be conscious that Allah is All-Aware of our actions. Just as a soldier is on guard from the enemy you must also fight the battle with your mind, your body, and your tongue. Say twice: ‘I am fasting’ to yourself and to the one who provokes you.
5. Get up and leave
The last step might be more forceful if the man on the subway just doesn’t want to get out of your way! (It happens all too often in London :) If you still feel ready to explode into an argument, then get up and leave your surroundings or the person provoking you. We can become angry and hot-tempered, saying things we often look back and regret. Take that moment to leave the room immediately. You’ll return with a new outlook inshaAllah and refreshed approach which will make you less prone to arguing.
If you are standing up then be advised to sit down. Or if you’re sitting down – and still fuming then lie down. Research shows that our blood pressure reduces significantly when we sit or lie down. A teacher once also advised me that a cool glass of water can extinguish that hot-temper, but maybe after iftaar…
I hope these steps will help you next time you feel angry. Slot it into your Habitator if you’re feeling that tad bit impatient often. Nothing is easy unless Allah makes it easy for us, but strive hard for Allah (Subahanahu Wa Ta’la) will not change our condition until we change what is in ourselves.
http://www.islam-qa.com/en/ref/12653
Source: http://www.productiveramadan.com/5-steps-to-control-your-temper/
Wednesday, August 17, 2011
Muslim Quality Control: Develop Your Character this Ramadan by Anum Ali
Globally acclaimed companies like Unilever, Procter and Gamble, Coca-Cola Company, and others all have a secret formula for corporate success: “Quality Control.” The quality of what they deliver is what wins them awards for their performance. Similarly, a Muslim must function like the global best, and aim to be their best. Ramadan is a month of quality control for a Muslim which allows us to polish our character, realize and refine our virtues, and introduce and instill good manners. Ramadan is the Muslim’s quality control, contributing to success in the Hereafter, inshaAllah.
The Screening Process: Self-Awareness
If you don’t want to acknowledge your shortcomings or are too proud to fix them, you will not be able to correct and improve yourself. On a visit to a beverage factory, I observed how the bottled drinks are screened in high-power screening lights to check for solid impurities. You should screen yourself similarly before the onset of Ramadan so you know what you have to scoop out of your personality, character, habits, and heart.
Think of it like this:
• Your solid impurities are what you can observe visibly: your dressing, appearance, gestures, and living environment.
• Your chemical impurities are the way your manners and behavior are when interacting with people: family, friends, Muslims, non-Muslims.
• Finally, your microscopic impurities are the ones that infect your heart, mind, and soul like: backbiting, slander, lies, lust, greed, envy, excessiveness, wasting time, cheating, impatience, ungratefulness, so on and so forth.
So before Ramadan begins, make a ‘Screening Checklist’ ready with a list of:
(1) Personal impurities
(2) Social impurities
(3) Impurities of the heart
Personal Grooming
A strong filter and cleanser is needed to get rid of the solid, apparent impurities. Personal grooming, modesty, health and hygiene are a strongly emphasized Sunnah and yet we find several brothers and sisters either ignoring it or not understanding it. Each one of us is a representative of Islam, especially if the sisters are wearing hijab/jilbab and the brothers observe beards. Therefore we should abide by the prescriptions of grooming and cleanliness that Prophet Mohammad (peace and blessings be upon him) gifted to us.
The state of fasting is a state of spiritual purity and it should reflect in our physical appearance as well. It’s time to get our act together and research the habits of cleanliness a Muslim should have (for example Miswak, ghusl on Fridays, cleaning with water after using the bathroom). You should work towards perfecting your Wudu (ablution), your clothing, and your appearance. Also keeping a clean room, house, or kitchen provides more tranquility for the mind and family.
Consider a Muslim as a book and if this book is to be judged by its cover, the cover should be modest, devoted to Allah the Exalted, following the Prophet (peace be upon him) as much as we can, and gleaming with cleanliness and iman.
Beautifying Social Mannerisms
We have countless social flaws – some of which are major sins – ranging from our communication to our interactions. It is the duty of every Muslim to be a brother or sister of another Muslim, and to beautifully invite others to Islam. Take the time to make improvements to how you interact with others.
If you feel you’ve been antisocial or absent, reconnect with family and righteous friends to revive the bonds of love and friendship. Ramadan provides the most beautiful of opportunities. You can arrange to meet at mosques and community centers for prayers or arrange for a communal iftar. Ramadan is a time to repent and resolve not to go back to ill social actions.
Polish the Virtues
An untamed self is like a raging bull that Shaytan loves to ride. This means that if you do not control it, it would be easier to misguide you. Your biggest challenge is to identify areas of weakness because most of the time we’re in a state of denial about them. Once you acknowledge what they are, then you can start working to reduce and eliminate them. Brainstorm what you can, consult authentic websites or books, and perhaps consult family and friends to create your checklist. The primary step is to block the sources that lead to the development of these ill personality traits. If you are a habitual liar, begin training yourself to take a moment to think before you respond to somebody, and take that moment to decide not to lie.
Self-Evaluation
At the end of it, constructively evaluate yourself. Offer thanks to Allah for the ones that you overcame with His help and highlight the ones you have yet to overcome, improving our character is a constant journey. It could also be beneficial for you to connect with a Muslim mentor, peer, or life coach. If you happen to find a sincere or a learned friend for direct communication, it’s the best guidance you can get. If you cannot access them personally, then there are always the beneficial resources available online.
This Ramadan make the intention to improve your character so you emerge as a spiritually beautiful Muslim this year, inshaAllah.
For more information, visit your local Islamic book shop or online to purchase books on Muslim character, manners, and diseases of the heart.
About the Author
Anum Ali has a BA Business Administration. Sr. Anum is also a Writer and Media Director for Habibi Halaqas.
Source: http://www.productiveramadan.com/muslim-quality-control-develop-your-character-this-ramadan/
The Screening Process: Self-Awareness
If you don’t want to acknowledge your shortcomings or are too proud to fix them, you will not be able to correct and improve yourself. On a visit to a beverage factory, I observed how the bottled drinks are screened in high-power screening lights to check for solid impurities. You should screen yourself similarly before the onset of Ramadan so you know what you have to scoop out of your personality, character, habits, and heart.
Think of it like this:
• Your solid impurities are what you can observe visibly: your dressing, appearance, gestures, and living environment.
• Your chemical impurities are the way your manners and behavior are when interacting with people: family, friends, Muslims, non-Muslims.
• Finally, your microscopic impurities are the ones that infect your heart, mind, and soul like: backbiting, slander, lies, lust, greed, envy, excessiveness, wasting time, cheating, impatience, ungratefulness, so on and so forth.
So before Ramadan begins, make a ‘Screening Checklist’ ready with a list of:
(1) Personal impurities
(2) Social impurities
(3) Impurities of the heart
Personal Grooming
A strong filter and cleanser is needed to get rid of the solid, apparent impurities. Personal grooming, modesty, health and hygiene are a strongly emphasized Sunnah and yet we find several brothers and sisters either ignoring it or not understanding it. Each one of us is a representative of Islam, especially if the sisters are wearing hijab/jilbab and the brothers observe beards. Therefore we should abide by the prescriptions of grooming and cleanliness that Prophet Mohammad (peace and blessings be upon him) gifted to us.
The state of fasting is a state of spiritual purity and it should reflect in our physical appearance as well. It’s time to get our act together and research the habits of cleanliness a Muslim should have (for example Miswak, ghusl on Fridays, cleaning with water after using the bathroom). You should work towards perfecting your Wudu (ablution), your clothing, and your appearance. Also keeping a clean room, house, or kitchen provides more tranquility for the mind and family.
Consider a Muslim as a book and if this book is to be judged by its cover, the cover should be modest, devoted to Allah the Exalted, following the Prophet (peace be upon him) as much as we can, and gleaming with cleanliness and iman.
Beautifying Social Mannerisms
We have countless social flaws – some of which are major sins – ranging from our communication to our interactions. It is the duty of every Muslim to be a brother or sister of another Muslim, and to beautifully invite others to Islam. Take the time to make improvements to how you interact with others.
If you feel you’ve been antisocial or absent, reconnect with family and righteous friends to revive the bonds of love and friendship. Ramadan provides the most beautiful of opportunities. You can arrange to meet at mosques and community centers for prayers or arrange for a communal iftar. Ramadan is a time to repent and resolve not to go back to ill social actions.
Polish the Virtues
An untamed self is like a raging bull that Shaytan loves to ride. This means that if you do not control it, it would be easier to misguide you. Your biggest challenge is to identify areas of weakness because most of the time we’re in a state of denial about them. Once you acknowledge what they are, then you can start working to reduce and eliminate them. Brainstorm what you can, consult authentic websites or books, and perhaps consult family and friends to create your checklist. The primary step is to block the sources that lead to the development of these ill personality traits. If you are a habitual liar, begin training yourself to take a moment to think before you respond to somebody, and take that moment to decide not to lie.
Self-Evaluation
At the end of it, constructively evaluate yourself. Offer thanks to Allah for the ones that you overcame with His help and highlight the ones you have yet to overcome, improving our character is a constant journey. It could also be beneficial for you to connect with a Muslim mentor, peer, or life coach. If you happen to find a sincere or a learned friend for direct communication, it’s the best guidance you can get. If you cannot access them personally, then there are always the beneficial resources available online.
This Ramadan make the intention to improve your character so you emerge as a spiritually beautiful Muslim this year, inshaAllah.
For more information, visit your local Islamic book shop or online to purchase books on Muslim character, manners, and diseases of the heart.
About the Author
Anum Ali has a BA Business Administration. Sr. Anum is also a Writer and Media Director for Habibi Halaqas.
Source: http://www.productiveramadan.com/muslim-quality-control-develop-your-character-this-ramadan/
Monday, August 15, 2011
Saturday, August 13, 2011
Islamic Ruling (Fatwa) No.127170: Reciting a special du'a after every 4 rak'ahs of taraaweeh
Fatwa Date: Ramadhaan 25, 1430/15-9-2009
Question
I would like to know is there any special dua to be recited after every 4 rak’has of taraweeh. The people usually follow it where I live. I tried to find the reference or hadiths quoting this special dua but did not find one. Can you please help me? The dua people read starts like this: 'Subhana zil mulki wal malakoot, subhana zil izzti wal azmati, wal haibati, wal qudrati, wal kibri yaa-i wal jabroot. Subhanal malakil hai yil lazee, la yanamu wa-la yamoot, sub-boo-hun, qud-du-sun, rabbana, wa rabbul ma laai katu wa rooh." Is it correct to read this dua?
Answer
All perfect praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.
As far as we know, there is no particular mention of Allah or supplication that is said during the rak’ahs of taraaweeh, so it is not permissible to say this supplication because in principle the matters of worship are restricted to what has religious evidence and it is not permissible to innovate any of it without religious evidence.
Aa’ishah narrated that the Prophet said: "Whoever introduces into this matter of ours [Islam] that which is not a part of it, it will be rejected." [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]
However, if one says this supplication sometimes during taraweeh or after it without repeating this regularly, then this is permissible because its meaning is correct.
Allah knows best.
Source: http://www.islamweb.net/emainpage/index.php?page=showfatwa&Option=FatwaId&Id=127170
Question
I would like to know is there any special dua to be recited after every 4 rak’has of taraweeh. The people usually follow it where I live. I tried to find the reference or hadiths quoting this special dua but did not find one. Can you please help me? The dua people read starts like this: 'Subhana zil mulki wal malakoot, subhana zil izzti wal azmati, wal haibati, wal qudrati, wal kibri yaa-i wal jabroot. Subhanal malakil hai yil lazee, la yanamu wa-la yamoot, sub-boo-hun, qud-du-sun, rabbana, wa rabbul ma laai katu wa rooh." Is it correct to read this dua?
Answer
All perfect praise be to Allah, the Lord of the worlds. I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allah, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger.
As far as we know, there is no particular mention of Allah or supplication that is said during the rak’ahs of taraaweeh, so it is not permissible to say this supplication because in principle the matters of worship are restricted to what has religious evidence and it is not permissible to innovate any of it without religious evidence.
Aa’ishah narrated that the Prophet said: "Whoever introduces into this matter of ours [Islam] that which is not a part of it, it will be rejected." [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]
However, if one says this supplication sometimes during taraweeh or after it without repeating this regularly, then this is permissible because its meaning is correct.
Allah knows best.
Source: http://www.islamweb.net/emainpage/index.php?page=showfatwa&Option=FatwaId&Id=127170
Islamic Ruling (Fatwa) No. 49698: Fasting is not accepted if one doesn’t pray
Question
Is it permissible to fast without praying?
Answer
Praise be to Allah.
No good deeds will be accepted from one who does not pray – no zakaah, no fasting, no Hajj or anything else.
Al-Bukhaari (520) narrated that Buraydah said: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Whoever does not pray ‘Asr, his good deeds will be annulled.”
What is meant by “his good deeds will be annulled” is that they will be rendered invalid and will be of no benefit to him. This hadeeth indicates that Allah will not accept any good deed from one who does not pray, so the one who does not pray will not benefit at all from his good deeds and no good deed of his will be taken up to Allah.
It seems from the hadeeth that there are two types of those who do not pray: those who do not pray at all, which annuls all their good deeds, and those who do not offer a particular prayer on a particular day, which annuls the good deeds of that day. So annulment of all good deeds happens to those who forsake all the prayers, and annulment of the good deeds of a particular day happens to the one who omits a particular prayer.
Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen was asked in Fataawa al-Siyaam (p. 87) about the ruling on the fasting of one who does not pray.
He replied: The fast of one who does not pray is not valid and is not accepted, because the one who does not pray is a kaafir and an apostate, because Allah says (interpretation of the meaning): “But if they repent [by rejecting shirk (polytheism) and accept Islamic monotheism], perform as-salaah (iqaamat-as-salaah) and give zakaah, then they are your brethren in religion.” [al-Tawbah 9:11]
And the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Between a man and shirk and kufr stands his giving up prayer.” (Narrated by Muslim, 82) And he (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “The covenant that separates us from them is prayer; whoever gives up prayer is a kaafir.” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 2621; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi)
This is also the view of most of the Sahaabah, if not their consensus. ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Shaqeeq (may Allah have mercy on him), who was one of the well-known Taabi’een, said: “The companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) did not think that omitting any action made a person a kaafir, except for prayer. Based on this, if a person fasts but he does not pray, then his fast is rejected and not accepted, and it will not avail him anything before Allah on the Day of Resurrection. We say to him: Pray then fast, because if you fast but do not pray, then your fast will be rejected, because acts of worship are not accepted from a kaafir.
The Standing Committee (10/140) was asked: if a person is keen to fast in Ramadan and to pray in Ramadan only, but he stops praying as soon as Ramadan is over, does his fasting count?
They replied: Prayer is one of the pillars of Islam, and it is the most important pillar after the Shahaadatayn. It is an individual obligation (fard ‘ayn), and whoever does not do it because he denies that it is obligatory, or he does not do it because he is careless and lazy, is a kaafir. With regard to those who fast Ramadan and pray in Ramadan only, this is trying to cheat Allah, and unfortunate indeed are those who only acknowledge Allah in Ramadan. Their fasting is not valid if they do not pray at times other than Ramadan, rather this makes them kaafirs in the sense of major kufr (kufr akbar), even if they do not deny that prayer is obligatory, according to the more sound of the two scholarly opinions.
Islam Q&A
Source: http://www.islam-qa.com/en/ref/49698
Is it permissible to fast without praying?
Answer
Praise be to Allah.
No good deeds will be accepted from one who does not pray – no zakaah, no fasting, no Hajj or anything else.
Al-Bukhaari (520) narrated that Buraydah said: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Whoever does not pray ‘Asr, his good deeds will be annulled.”
What is meant by “his good deeds will be annulled” is that they will be rendered invalid and will be of no benefit to him. This hadeeth indicates that Allah will not accept any good deed from one who does not pray, so the one who does not pray will not benefit at all from his good deeds and no good deed of his will be taken up to Allah.
It seems from the hadeeth that there are two types of those who do not pray: those who do not pray at all, which annuls all their good deeds, and those who do not offer a particular prayer on a particular day, which annuls the good deeds of that day. So annulment of all good deeds happens to those who forsake all the prayers, and annulment of the good deeds of a particular day happens to the one who omits a particular prayer.
Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen was asked in Fataawa al-Siyaam (p. 87) about the ruling on the fasting of one who does not pray.
He replied: The fast of one who does not pray is not valid and is not accepted, because the one who does not pray is a kaafir and an apostate, because Allah says (interpretation of the meaning): “But if they repent [by rejecting shirk (polytheism) and accept Islamic monotheism], perform as-salaah (iqaamat-as-salaah) and give zakaah, then they are your brethren in religion.” [al-Tawbah 9:11]
And the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Between a man and shirk and kufr stands his giving up prayer.” (Narrated by Muslim, 82) And he (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “The covenant that separates us from them is prayer; whoever gives up prayer is a kaafir.” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 2621; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi)
This is also the view of most of the Sahaabah, if not their consensus. ‘Abd-Allaah ibn Shaqeeq (may Allah have mercy on him), who was one of the well-known Taabi’een, said: “The companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) did not think that omitting any action made a person a kaafir, except for prayer. Based on this, if a person fasts but he does not pray, then his fast is rejected and not accepted, and it will not avail him anything before Allah on the Day of Resurrection. We say to him: Pray then fast, because if you fast but do not pray, then your fast will be rejected, because acts of worship are not accepted from a kaafir.
The Standing Committee (10/140) was asked: if a person is keen to fast in Ramadan and to pray in Ramadan only, but he stops praying as soon as Ramadan is over, does his fasting count?
They replied: Prayer is one of the pillars of Islam, and it is the most important pillar after the Shahaadatayn. It is an individual obligation (fard ‘ayn), and whoever does not do it because he denies that it is obligatory, or he does not do it because he is careless and lazy, is a kaafir. With regard to those who fast Ramadan and pray in Ramadan only, this is trying to cheat Allah, and unfortunate indeed are those who only acknowledge Allah in Ramadan. Their fasting is not valid if they do not pray at times other than Ramadan, rather this makes them kaafirs in the sense of major kufr (kufr akbar), even if they do not deny that prayer is obligatory, according to the more sound of the two scholarly opinions.
Islam Q&A
Source: http://www.islam-qa.com/en/ref/49698
Wednesday, August 10, 2011
Virtues of Ramadan by Yasir Qadhi lecture notes by Arif Kabir
Ramadan Special: Virtues of Ramadan
The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wa sallam), during the time of Ramadan, stood up on a minbar, called the Companions, gave them a khutbah, and said, “Oh people, know that a month is upon you. Know that you are witnessing a month that Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala has made sacred, that Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala made obligatory to fast during its days and He has requested that you stand during its nights (it’s not obligatory, but it is rather good to do so).
Locked Up
This month, as said by the Prophet, is one that all of the doors of Hell are shut and chained, and all of the gates of Ramadan are opened, meaning that every opportunity to do good is opened up, you are safe from the fire of Hell, and go to Jannah. This is a month that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wa sallam) has said that all of the evil Shayaateen are locked up, and they are not allowed to go around, whispering evil thoughts and this is a month that every single night, Allah suhanahu wa ta’ala saves people who were destined to go to Hell, and this month has a day that is better than a thousands months. This month is Ramadan.
The Preferred Month
Allah has preferred certain months over others, and Ramadan is the most preferred month in the sight of Allah. Realize that this month has been made very easy as the Shayaateen and gates of Hell are locked, and also realize that 100 percent of the evil deeds that you do in this month is solely from your soul. Therefore, Ramadan is a reflection of your soul.
The Three Ameens
One day, when the Prophet was giving the Friday khutbah, he was climbing up the pulpit, which had three steps. When he climbed the first step, he said Ameen. Then he climbed up the second and said Ameen. Then he climbed up the third and said Ameen. So the companions were confused and said, “Oh Messenger of Allah, we have never heard you say Ameen every time you climb a step. What is the reason for this?” The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wa sallam) said, “When I was climbing the pulpit, Jibreel came to me and told me, ‘Oh Muhammad, anyone in your nation who manages to be alive when Ramadan comes and does not manage to get his sins forgiven, let him perish in the HellFire – Say Ameen!’ So Muhammad said Ameen. Then when he climbed the second step, Jibreel said, ‘Anyone who manages to catch Laylatul Qadr and does not manage to get his sins forgiven, may he perish in the Hellfire – Say Ameen!’ So the Prophet said Ameen and when the Prophet climbed the third step, Jibreel said to him, ‘Oh Muhammad, anyone of your Ummah who manages to catch their parents, whether one of them or both, when they are elderly and they need his help and is not able to service them properly and get his sins forgiven, may he perish – say Ameen! So the Prophet said Ameen. So three duas are made – three golden opportunities that even the worst of men can get all of their sins erased by turning to Allah. Two of those opportunities are related to Ramadan – the entire month and Laylatul Qadr. Therefore, if you cannot be righteous in this month, then there is no hope for you because there are no excuses.
Three ways to forgive all bad deeds:
So what do you have to do? The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wa sallam) mentioned three things and anyone of them will unconditionally forgive all of one’s bad deeds:
1. Whoever fasts the entire month of Ramadan, believing in Allah and hoping for Allah’s reward
2. Standing up at night in Ramadan (ex. Taraweeh)
3. The night of Laylatul Qadr
Ar-Rayyan
One more blessing of Ramadan is that it is the month when you perfect your fasting in it, and you can enter through a special door set aside for those who fast. The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wa sallam) said, “In Jannah, there is a special door called Ar-Rayyan” and Ar-Rayyan means that which will give you a lot of water, because the way to get to that is to deprive yourself of water (by fasting).
Ramadan has been put for you to achieve righteousness and piety – this is the ultimate goal; Allah does not benefit when you tire yourself out. Rather, you are the one that benefit. May Allah make us among those whose sins are forgiven in this month, whose fasting is accepted, whose reading of the Qur’an is accepted, and whose Qiyyam is accepted, and may He make us among those who enter Jannah through the gate of Rayyan.
Source: http://ilmnotes.wordpress.com/2009/07/31/virtues-of-ramadan/
The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wa sallam), during the time of Ramadan, stood up on a minbar, called the Companions, gave them a khutbah, and said, “Oh people, know that a month is upon you. Know that you are witnessing a month that Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala has made sacred, that Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala made obligatory to fast during its days and He has requested that you stand during its nights (it’s not obligatory, but it is rather good to do so).
Locked Up
This month, as said by the Prophet, is one that all of the doors of Hell are shut and chained, and all of the gates of Ramadan are opened, meaning that every opportunity to do good is opened up, you are safe from the fire of Hell, and go to Jannah. This is a month that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wa sallam) has said that all of the evil Shayaateen are locked up, and they are not allowed to go around, whispering evil thoughts and this is a month that every single night, Allah suhanahu wa ta’ala saves people who were destined to go to Hell, and this month has a day that is better than a thousands months. This month is Ramadan.
The Preferred Month
Allah has preferred certain months over others, and Ramadan is the most preferred month in the sight of Allah. Realize that this month has been made very easy as the Shayaateen and gates of Hell are locked, and also realize that 100 percent of the evil deeds that you do in this month is solely from your soul. Therefore, Ramadan is a reflection of your soul.
The Three Ameens
One day, when the Prophet was giving the Friday khutbah, he was climbing up the pulpit, which had three steps. When he climbed the first step, he said Ameen. Then he climbed up the second and said Ameen. Then he climbed up the third and said Ameen. So the companions were confused and said, “Oh Messenger of Allah, we have never heard you say Ameen every time you climb a step. What is the reason for this?” The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wa sallam) said, “When I was climbing the pulpit, Jibreel came to me and told me, ‘Oh Muhammad, anyone in your nation who manages to be alive when Ramadan comes and does not manage to get his sins forgiven, let him perish in the HellFire – Say Ameen!’ So Muhammad said Ameen. Then when he climbed the second step, Jibreel said, ‘Anyone who manages to catch Laylatul Qadr and does not manage to get his sins forgiven, may he perish in the Hellfire – Say Ameen!’ So the Prophet said Ameen and when the Prophet climbed the third step, Jibreel said to him, ‘Oh Muhammad, anyone of your Ummah who manages to catch their parents, whether one of them or both, when they are elderly and they need his help and is not able to service them properly and get his sins forgiven, may he perish – say Ameen! So the Prophet said Ameen. So three duas are made – three golden opportunities that even the worst of men can get all of their sins erased by turning to Allah. Two of those opportunities are related to Ramadan – the entire month and Laylatul Qadr. Therefore, if you cannot be righteous in this month, then there is no hope for you because there are no excuses.
Three ways to forgive all bad deeds:
So what do you have to do? The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wa sallam) mentioned three things and anyone of them will unconditionally forgive all of one’s bad deeds:
1. Whoever fasts the entire month of Ramadan, believing in Allah and hoping for Allah’s reward
2. Standing up at night in Ramadan (ex. Taraweeh)
3. The night of Laylatul Qadr
Ar-Rayyan
One more blessing of Ramadan is that it is the month when you perfect your fasting in it, and you can enter through a special door set aside for those who fast. The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wa sallam) said, “In Jannah, there is a special door called Ar-Rayyan” and Ar-Rayyan means that which will give you a lot of water, because the way to get to that is to deprive yourself of water (by fasting).
Ramadan has been put for you to achieve righteousness and piety – this is the ultimate goal; Allah does not benefit when you tire yourself out. Rather, you are the one that benefit. May Allah make us among those whose sins are forgiven in this month, whose fasting is accepted, whose reading of the Qur’an is accepted, and whose Qiyyam is accepted, and may He make us among those who enter Jannah through the gate of Rayyan.
Source: http://ilmnotes.wordpress.com/2009/07/31/virtues-of-ramadan/
Monday, August 8, 2011
Saturday, August 6, 2011
No Breaks from Ramadan
With Ramadan fast approaching, it is best to be prepared for this blessed month. Many people focus on taking advantage of Ramadan by fasting, performing Salah, going to the Masjid for Taraweeh and Tahujjud and reciting from the Holy Qur’an.
However, as women, we know there is a certain time period when we cannot fast and pray. Because of this, we tend to feel disconnected from Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala and our iman tends to decrease.
Instead of focusing on the acts of worship we cannot perform, we have to find other ways to keep our iman high and gain reward from our Lord.
Be content with Allah’s decree
The most important thing to do is to be content with what Allah ta’ala has decreed for us, as women. That means don’t hate your period and don’t hate not fasting. Also, complaining about your situation suggests that you are not satisfied with what Allah ta’ala has ordained. It also proposes the idea that you think your Lord is somehow being unfair to you and not giving you as much reward as you deserve or want to earn, which is absurd. Our Lord is not trying to make us “lose points” and He is never unfair.
Remember Allah is Merciful
Anytime you feel down about “missing out” during Ramadan, remember: Abdullah Bin ‘Amr reported that the Prophet said: “No (believing) person gets sick, but (his deeds) will be recorded for him in accordance with what he used to do when he was well.” [Bukhari]
I am not suggesting that this is what happens when we are menstruating, because I do not know if that is the case. However, I do believe that our Rabb, who has placed such a merciful method of recording our deeds, has one just as merciful for women.
Sickness is a blessing
Surely, we have all heard that when someone is ill, his or her sins are being washed away. So while we are not praying, it is possible that enduring a few painful cramps with patience may raise our ranks in front of Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala more than praying a few Rak’ahs and may wash away many of our sins.
Abu Sa`id and Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with them) reported that the Prophet (salAllahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “Never a believer is stricken with a discomfort, an illness, an anxiety, a grief or mental worry or even the pricking of a thorn but Allah will expiate his sins on account of his patience.” [Bukhari and Muslim]
A break from fasting is not a break from Ramadan
Remember, just because you are unable to fast and pray does not mean you should give up all the good you have been doing. Continue to make the efforts of being a better Muslimah by abstaining from watching TV or listening to music. If you have been trying to gossip less, keep up the effort. Refrain from the negative actions that you were refraining from while fasting.
Replace certain good deeds with other ones
•Instead of going to the Masjid to pray Taraweeh, you can go to the Masjid and listen to the recitation.
•Baby-sit for a sister who has children so that she can go to the Masjid instead.
•Offer to baby-sit in the children’s area in the Masjid.
•Make a du’a list so that you do not end up repeating the same few du’as over and over again.
•Help around the house as much as you can by offering to cook, clean, or simply take care of things when others may be too tired from fasting, so that you can get reward.
•Serve food and water while people are eating.
•Listen to the Qur’an on your iPod or laptop while you are doing daily chores.
•Feed those who are fasting, which will give you the same amount of reward.
Don’t forget to eat
We tend not to eat all day even though we are not fasting. There is reward in eating, since Allah has ordained us not to fast during this time. However, if Allah has given us ease, we should accept it and be thankful to Him. When we are fasting, we complain of hunger, yet when we are not fasting, we do not eat. SubhanAllah! But remember; try not to eat in front of those who are fasting out of good etiquette.
Stay in the habit of Salah times
To stay in the habit of making Salah, when you hear the adhan, go make wudu. While others are praying, take the time to make dhikr, istighfaar or du’a. This way, you stay in the habit of prayer times and you will not struggle once you pray again.
Just remember that there is a lot that can be done when you cannot pray and fast. All you have to do is make an effort to stay connected with Allah ta’ala and insha’Allah, He will help you. You just need to make the intention.
Source: http://www.igotitcovered.org/2011/07/06/no-breaks-from-ramadan/
However, as women, we know there is a certain time period when we cannot fast and pray. Because of this, we tend to feel disconnected from Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala and our iman tends to decrease.
Instead of focusing on the acts of worship we cannot perform, we have to find other ways to keep our iman high and gain reward from our Lord.
Be content with Allah’s decree
The most important thing to do is to be content with what Allah ta’ala has decreed for us, as women. That means don’t hate your period and don’t hate not fasting. Also, complaining about your situation suggests that you are not satisfied with what Allah ta’ala has ordained. It also proposes the idea that you think your Lord is somehow being unfair to you and not giving you as much reward as you deserve or want to earn, which is absurd. Our Lord is not trying to make us “lose points” and He is never unfair.
Remember Allah is Merciful
Anytime you feel down about “missing out” during Ramadan, remember: Abdullah Bin ‘Amr reported that the Prophet said: “No (believing) person gets sick, but (his deeds) will be recorded for him in accordance with what he used to do when he was well.” [Bukhari]
I am not suggesting that this is what happens when we are menstruating, because I do not know if that is the case. However, I do believe that our Rabb, who has placed such a merciful method of recording our deeds, has one just as merciful for women.
Sickness is a blessing
Surely, we have all heard that when someone is ill, his or her sins are being washed away. So while we are not praying, it is possible that enduring a few painful cramps with patience may raise our ranks in front of Allah subhanahu wa ta’ala more than praying a few Rak’ahs and may wash away many of our sins.
Abu Sa`id and Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with them) reported that the Prophet (salAllahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “Never a believer is stricken with a discomfort, an illness, an anxiety, a grief or mental worry or even the pricking of a thorn but Allah will expiate his sins on account of his patience.” [Bukhari and Muslim]
A break from fasting is not a break from Ramadan
Remember, just because you are unable to fast and pray does not mean you should give up all the good you have been doing. Continue to make the efforts of being a better Muslimah by abstaining from watching TV or listening to music. If you have been trying to gossip less, keep up the effort. Refrain from the negative actions that you were refraining from while fasting.
Replace certain good deeds with other ones
•Instead of going to the Masjid to pray Taraweeh, you can go to the Masjid and listen to the recitation.
•Baby-sit for a sister who has children so that she can go to the Masjid instead.
•Offer to baby-sit in the children’s area in the Masjid.
•Make a du’a list so that you do not end up repeating the same few du’as over and over again.
•Help around the house as much as you can by offering to cook, clean, or simply take care of things when others may be too tired from fasting, so that you can get reward.
•Serve food and water while people are eating.
•Listen to the Qur’an on your iPod or laptop while you are doing daily chores.
•Feed those who are fasting, which will give you the same amount of reward.
Don’t forget to eat
We tend not to eat all day even though we are not fasting. There is reward in eating, since Allah has ordained us not to fast during this time. However, if Allah has given us ease, we should accept it and be thankful to Him. When we are fasting, we complain of hunger, yet when we are not fasting, we do not eat. SubhanAllah! But remember; try not to eat in front of those who are fasting out of good etiquette.
Stay in the habit of Salah times
To stay in the habit of making Salah, when you hear the adhan, go make wudu. While others are praying, take the time to make dhikr, istighfaar or du’a. This way, you stay in the habit of prayer times and you will not struggle once you pray again.
Just remember that there is a lot that can be done when you cannot pray and fast. All you have to do is make an effort to stay connected with Allah ta’ala and insha’Allah, He will help you. You just need to make the intention.
Source: http://www.igotitcovered.org/2011/07/06/no-breaks-from-ramadan/
Friday, August 5, 2011
A Women’s Guide to Spirituality in Ramadan during Menstruation and Postnatal Bleeding by Kanika Aggarwal
Some information has been adapted from the following sources: Closed Doors and Opened Eyes: Spirituality for the Non-Fasting by Shazia Ahmad & A Muslim Day in Ramadan – Morning till Evening by Sh. Riad Quarzazi. Previously published in Sisters magazine August 2011 Issue
While others will be busy in acts of worship such as fasting, praying, reading Qur’an, etc., most women will spend a portion of Ramadan in the state of menstruation (or postnatal bleeding), leaving them unable to participate in the aforementioned activities.
It is not easy to stay positive at times like these, especially when we see those around us rushing to masaajid for taraweeh prayers, spending time in ‘itikaaf and reciting the Qur’an. This can lead us to feeling deprived of the reward of this blessed month, and often this feeling ends up decreasing our spirituality rather than increasing it.
Our menstrual cycles (or postnatal bleeding) are a part of Allah subhaana wa ta’alaa‘s creation and something that is ordained by Him. Allah subhaana wa ta’alaa tells us in the Qur’an that “He has created us in the best of molds” [At-Teen:4]. We are also told that Allah has “appointed a due proportion” [At-Talaq:2-3] for everything and that “for every matter there is an appointed time given” [Ar-Rad:38]. [1] Thus, to complain about it would be to question the Wisdom of Allah subhaana wa ta’alaa. This is not anything to feel sad or inconvenienced about, but rather it should be accepted as part of the Divine Wisdom.
This same message was conveyed to us by Ayesha radi Allahu ‘anha via the hadith of the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam.
Ayesha narrates that, “We set out with the sole intention of performing Hajj and when we reached Sarif, my menses began. The Messenger of Allah sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam came to me while I was crying and asked, ‘What is the matter with you? Has your menses started?’ I replied, ‘Yes.’ He said, ‘This is something which Allah has destined for the daughter of Adam.’” (Al-Hakim)
Islam is the straight path that leads to the pleasure of Allah subhanaa wa ta’ala and ultimate success in the aakhirah. However, praise be to Allah, the path of Islam is broad, i.e. there is a huge variety of good deeds one can do to come closer to Allah subhaana wa ta’aala. Likewise, there are many other ways of achieving spirituality while we are on our menses (or going through postnatal bleeding) besides salaah, siyaam and ‘itikaaf. This was exemplified for us through the practice of the wife of the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam.
Narrated Maimuna, the wife of the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam, “During my menses, I never prayed, but used to sit on the mat beside the mosque of Allah’s Apostle…” (Bukhari)
Here are a few practical suggestions of good deeds that a Muslimah can do while she is menstruating or has postnatal bleeding.
At the time of the adhaan:
• Repeat after the adhaan
• Make du’a for the intercession of the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam after the adhaan
• Allaahumma Rabba haathihid-da ‘watit-taammati wassalaatil-qaa’imati, ‘aati Muhammadanil-waseelata walfadheelata, wab ‘ath-hu maqaamam-mahmoodanil-lathee wa’adtahu, ['innaka laa tukhliful-mee'aad] (O Allah, Lord of this perfect call and established prayer. Grant Muhammad the intercession and favor, and raise him to the honored station You have promised him, [verily You do not neglect promises]). [Reference: Bukhari & Bayhaqi]
• Make du’a between the adhaan and iqaama. Invocation during this time is not rejected.
When you wake up:
• “Alhamdu lillaahil-lathee ‘ahyaanaa ba’da maa ‘amaatanaa wa’ilayhin-nushoor.” (Praise is to Allah Who gives us life after He has caused us to die and to Him is the return.) [Reference: Bukhari]
• “Laa ‘illaha ‘illallahu wahdahu la shareeka lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu, wa Huwa ‘alaa kulli shay’in Qadeer Subhaanallahi, walhamdu lillaahi, wa laa ‘ilaha ‘illallahu, wallaahu ‘akbar, wa laa hawla wa laa Quwwata ‘illaa billaahil-’Aliyyil-’Adheem, Rabbighfir lee.” (There is none worth of worship but Allah alone, Who has no partner, His is the dominion and to Him belongs all praise, and He is able to do all things. Glory is to Allah. Praise is to Allah. There is none worth of worship but Allah. Allah is the Most Great. There is no might and no power except by Allah’s leave, the Exalted, the Mighty. My Lord, forgive me.) [Reference: Bukhari]
In the morning (after fajr) / evening (before maghrib):
• “A ‘oothu billaahi minash-Shaytaanir-rajeem. Allaahu laa ‘ilaaha ‘illaa Huwal-Hayyul-Qayyoom, laa ta’khuthuhu sinatun wa laa nawm, lahu maa fis-samaawaati wa maa fil-’ardh, man thai-lathee yashfa’u ‘indahu ‘illaa bi’ithnih, ya’lamu maa bayna ‘aydeehim wa maa khalfahum, wa laa yuheetoona bishay’im-min ‘ilmihi ‘illaa bimaa shaa’a, wasi’a kursiyyuhus samaawaati wal’ardh, wa laa ya’ooduhu hifdhuhumaa, wa Huwal- ‘Aliyyul- ‘Adheem.” (I seek refuge in Allah from Satan the outcast. – Allah! There is none worthy of worship but He, the Ever Living, the One Who sustains and protects all that exists. Neither slumber nor sleep overtakes Him. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is he that can intercede with Him except with His Permission? He knows what happens to them in this world, and what will happen to them in the Hereafter. And they will never encompass anything of His Knowledge except that which He wills. His Throne extends over the heavens and the earth, and He feels no fatigue in guarding and preserving them. And He is the Most High, the Most Great.) [Reference: Al Hakim]
• Recite Surat’l-Ikhlaas, Surat’l-Falaq, Surat’l-Nas – 3 times each in morning and evening [Reference: Abu Dawud & Tirmidhi]
• More morning and evening adhkaar can be found here: http://www.islamawareness.net/Dua/Fortress/027.html
• Suggested Task: Read an English translation of half a juz of the Qur’an after fajr and before maghrib to complete 1 juz a day insha’Allah
During afternoon time:
• Listen to an Islamic lecture or read an Islamic book
At maghrib time:
• Help people break their fast by offering them dates and water
• Host an iftaar for family and guests
At isha time:
• Have family circle time at home and have a member of the house recite the Qur’an to the rest of the family followed by tafseer of those ayaat
Before sleeping:
• Cup your palms together, blow gently into them and recite Surat’l-Ikhlaas, Surat’l-Falaq, and Surat’l-Nas. Then pass your hands over as much of your body as you can reach, beginning with the head and then face, then the entire front of your body. Do this three times. [Reference: Bukhari]
• Recite Ayat’l-Kursi. [Reference: Bukhari]
• Recite last 2 verses of Surat’l-Baqarah. [Reference: Bukhari]
• Recite Surah Mulk. [Reference: An Nasai]
• More on “what to say before sleeping” can be found here: http://www.islamawareness.net/Dua/Fortress/028.html
Other acts that you can do
At the masjid:
• Shake hands with sisters and spread salaam at the masjid, especially engaging with newcomers.
• Sponsor iftaars at various masaajid if possible
• Volunteer for masjid clean up afterwards [1]
• Babysit during taraweeh so that the mothers (and everyone else!) can pray with khushu’ and concentration [1]
• Make a CD of beautiful Qur’an recitation and du’as and distribute it at the masjid [1]
At home:
• Have a qiyaam program for other sisters at your house – prepare iftaar and suhoor for them
• Look for new converts, those who are newly practicing or people who have lost touch with the community and invite them over for iftaar and ‘Eid [1]
• Think of Eid party ideas/gifts for family, spouse, children, neighbors and begin your preparations.
In your own time:
• Memorize ayaat of the Qur’an.
• Donate – clothes, food, toys, money etc.
• Make tawbah (repentance) and shukr (gratitude)
• Memorize Allah’s names and their meanings [1]. Use them in making personal du’a.
• Visit the sick in your area or at the hospital [1].
• Always keep your tongue moist with the dhikr of Allah subhaana wa ta’aala. Say SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, La ilaaha illallah, Allahu Akbar and send salaams and salawaat on the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam while cooking, cleaning, driving, etc.
I sincerely pray that this Ramadan all of us witness an increase in our spirituality and a betterment in the relationship we have with Allah subhaana wa ta’aala. May Allah allow us to witness the blessed month of Ramadan and give us the opportunity to perform acts of ibaadah that weigh heavy on the scales on the Day of Judgment, ameen.
[1] These ideas were co-opted from Sr Shazia Ahmed’s article which can be found on SuhaibWebb.com.
Source: http://muslimmatters.org/2011/08/03/a-womens-guide-to-spirituality-in-ramadan-during-menstruation-and-postnatal-bleeding/
While others will be busy in acts of worship such as fasting, praying, reading Qur’an, etc., most women will spend a portion of Ramadan in the state of menstruation (or postnatal bleeding), leaving them unable to participate in the aforementioned activities.
It is not easy to stay positive at times like these, especially when we see those around us rushing to masaajid for taraweeh prayers, spending time in ‘itikaaf and reciting the Qur’an. This can lead us to feeling deprived of the reward of this blessed month, and often this feeling ends up decreasing our spirituality rather than increasing it.
Our menstrual cycles (or postnatal bleeding) are a part of Allah subhaana wa ta’alaa‘s creation and something that is ordained by Him. Allah subhaana wa ta’alaa tells us in the Qur’an that “He has created us in the best of molds” [At-Teen:4]. We are also told that Allah has “appointed a due proportion” [At-Talaq:2-3] for everything and that “for every matter there is an appointed time given” [Ar-Rad:38]. [1] Thus, to complain about it would be to question the Wisdom of Allah subhaana wa ta’alaa. This is not anything to feel sad or inconvenienced about, but rather it should be accepted as part of the Divine Wisdom.
This same message was conveyed to us by Ayesha radi Allahu ‘anha via the hadith of the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam.
Ayesha narrates that, “We set out with the sole intention of performing Hajj and when we reached Sarif, my menses began. The Messenger of Allah sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam came to me while I was crying and asked, ‘What is the matter with you? Has your menses started?’ I replied, ‘Yes.’ He said, ‘This is something which Allah has destined for the daughter of Adam.’” (Al-Hakim)
Islam is the straight path that leads to the pleasure of Allah subhanaa wa ta’ala and ultimate success in the aakhirah. However, praise be to Allah, the path of Islam is broad, i.e. there is a huge variety of good deeds one can do to come closer to Allah subhaana wa ta’aala. Likewise, there are many other ways of achieving spirituality while we are on our menses (or going through postnatal bleeding) besides salaah, siyaam and ‘itikaaf. This was exemplified for us through the practice of the wife of the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam.
Narrated Maimuna, the wife of the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam, “During my menses, I never prayed, but used to sit on the mat beside the mosque of Allah’s Apostle…” (Bukhari)
Here are a few practical suggestions of good deeds that a Muslimah can do while she is menstruating or has postnatal bleeding.
At the time of the adhaan:
• Repeat after the adhaan
• Make du’a for the intercession of the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam after the adhaan
• Allaahumma Rabba haathihid-da ‘watit-taammati wassalaatil-qaa’imati, ‘aati Muhammadanil-waseelata walfadheelata, wab ‘ath-hu maqaamam-mahmoodanil-lathee wa’adtahu, ['innaka laa tukhliful-mee'aad] (O Allah, Lord of this perfect call and established prayer. Grant Muhammad the intercession and favor, and raise him to the honored station You have promised him, [verily You do not neglect promises]). [Reference: Bukhari & Bayhaqi]
• Make du’a between the adhaan and iqaama. Invocation during this time is not rejected.
When you wake up:
• “Alhamdu lillaahil-lathee ‘ahyaanaa ba’da maa ‘amaatanaa wa’ilayhin-nushoor.” (Praise is to Allah Who gives us life after He has caused us to die and to Him is the return.) [Reference: Bukhari]
• “Laa ‘illaha ‘illallahu wahdahu la shareeka lahu, lahul-mulku wa lahul-hamdu, wa Huwa ‘alaa kulli shay’in Qadeer Subhaanallahi, walhamdu lillaahi, wa laa ‘ilaha ‘illallahu, wallaahu ‘akbar, wa laa hawla wa laa Quwwata ‘illaa billaahil-’Aliyyil-’Adheem, Rabbighfir lee.” (There is none worth of worship but Allah alone, Who has no partner, His is the dominion and to Him belongs all praise, and He is able to do all things. Glory is to Allah. Praise is to Allah. There is none worth of worship but Allah. Allah is the Most Great. There is no might and no power except by Allah’s leave, the Exalted, the Mighty. My Lord, forgive me.) [Reference: Bukhari]
In the morning (after fajr) / evening (before maghrib):
• “A ‘oothu billaahi minash-Shaytaanir-rajeem. Allaahu laa ‘ilaaha ‘illaa Huwal-Hayyul-Qayyoom, laa ta’khuthuhu sinatun wa laa nawm, lahu maa fis-samaawaati wa maa fil-’ardh, man thai-lathee yashfa’u ‘indahu ‘illaa bi’ithnih, ya’lamu maa bayna ‘aydeehim wa maa khalfahum, wa laa yuheetoona bishay’im-min ‘ilmihi ‘illaa bimaa shaa’a, wasi’a kursiyyuhus samaawaati wal’ardh, wa laa ya’ooduhu hifdhuhumaa, wa Huwal- ‘Aliyyul- ‘Adheem.” (I seek refuge in Allah from Satan the outcast. – Allah! There is none worthy of worship but He, the Ever Living, the One Who sustains and protects all that exists. Neither slumber nor sleep overtakes Him. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on the earth. Who is he that can intercede with Him except with His Permission? He knows what happens to them in this world, and what will happen to them in the Hereafter. And they will never encompass anything of His Knowledge except that which He wills. His Throne extends over the heavens and the earth, and He feels no fatigue in guarding and preserving them. And He is the Most High, the Most Great.) [Reference: Al Hakim]
• Recite Surat’l-Ikhlaas, Surat’l-Falaq, Surat’l-Nas – 3 times each in morning and evening [Reference: Abu Dawud & Tirmidhi]
• More morning and evening adhkaar can be found here: http://www.islamawareness.net/Dua/Fortress/027.html
• Suggested Task: Read an English translation of half a juz of the Qur’an after fajr and before maghrib to complete 1 juz a day insha’Allah
During afternoon time:
• Listen to an Islamic lecture or read an Islamic book
At maghrib time:
• Help people break their fast by offering them dates and water
• Host an iftaar for family and guests
At isha time:
• Have family circle time at home and have a member of the house recite the Qur’an to the rest of the family followed by tafseer of those ayaat
Before sleeping:
• Cup your palms together, blow gently into them and recite Surat’l-Ikhlaas, Surat’l-Falaq, and Surat’l-Nas. Then pass your hands over as much of your body as you can reach, beginning with the head and then face, then the entire front of your body. Do this three times. [Reference: Bukhari]
• Recite Ayat’l-Kursi. [Reference: Bukhari]
• Recite last 2 verses of Surat’l-Baqarah. [Reference: Bukhari]
• Recite Surah Mulk. [Reference: An Nasai]
• More on “what to say before sleeping” can be found here: http://www.islamawareness.net/Dua/Fortress/028.html
Other acts that you can do
At the masjid:
• Shake hands with sisters and spread salaam at the masjid, especially engaging with newcomers.
• Sponsor iftaars at various masaajid if possible
• Volunteer for masjid clean up afterwards [1]
• Babysit during taraweeh so that the mothers (and everyone else!) can pray with khushu’ and concentration [1]
• Make a CD of beautiful Qur’an recitation and du’as and distribute it at the masjid [1]
At home:
• Have a qiyaam program for other sisters at your house – prepare iftaar and suhoor for them
• Look for new converts, those who are newly practicing or people who have lost touch with the community and invite them over for iftaar and ‘Eid [1]
• Think of Eid party ideas/gifts for family, spouse, children, neighbors and begin your preparations.
In your own time:
• Memorize ayaat of the Qur’an.
• Donate – clothes, food, toys, money etc.
• Make tawbah (repentance) and shukr (gratitude)
• Memorize Allah’s names and their meanings [1]. Use them in making personal du’a.
• Visit the sick in your area or at the hospital [1].
• Always keep your tongue moist with the dhikr of Allah subhaana wa ta’aala. Say SubhanAllah, Alhamdulillah, La ilaaha illallah, Allahu Akbar and send salaams and salawaat on the Prophet sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam while cooking, cleaning, driving, etc.
I sincerely pray that this Ramadan all of us witness an increase in our spirituality and a betterment in the relationship we have with Allah subhaana wa ta’aala. May Allah allow us to witness the blessed month of Ramadan and give us the opportunity to perform acts of ibaadah that weigh heavy on the scales on the Day of Judgment, ameen.
[1] These ideas were co-opted from Sr Shazia Ahmed’s article which can be found on SuhaibWebb.com.
Source: http://muslimmatters.org/2011/08/03/a-womens-guide-to-spirituality-in-ramadan-during-menstruation-and-postnatal-bleeding/
Thursday, August 4, 2011
Wednesday, August 3, 2011
Reminder
Please check out the last 2 years worth of Ramadan related posts. Remember, they are in reverse order.
Tuesday, August 2, 2011
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