In the Name of Allah,
All praise is due to Allah, the one who holds my life in his hand.
I received a question over the weekend that reminded me to write about this topic. For muslims living side by side with non-muslims, it becomes very odd and confusing at the time of non-Islamic religious holidays. And, one of the biggest question that bother people is that should we greet them in their holiday, or not?
Sole purpose of Islam is to establish civlized, mannered, and curteous society. As the messenger of Allah (PBUH) said himself.
Yahya related to me from Malik that he had heard that the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "I was sent to perfect good character."
(Malik's Muwatta Book 47, Number 47.1.8)
So, Islam would never teach to be rude or disrespectful, because that would be contrary to the purpose of messenger of Allah's life.
However, it does not mean that we disobey Allah to make non-muslims feel good, and anything that is prohibited should not be done for the sake of good manners, because Allah has best manners, and he never prohibits something that is good for us.
In essence, we have to find out if saying "Merry Christmas" violates an order of the Allah (remember that order of the Prophet (PBUH) is from Allah and not from himself so that counts as well).
First condition to be a Muslim is to proclaim that none worthy of worship beside Allah, and if someone worships other than Allah would automatically leaves Islam. This should be pretty clear, and no evidence is needed here. If one disagree with this, there are bigger issues to discuss then a greeting.
“Whoever imitates a people is one of them.” Narrated by Abu Dawood (4031)
Above hadith talks about the actions that are specific to Christians, and no other nation use it beside in the context of Christians. For example, wearing cross (with bottom end elongated) etc. If a person imitates the unique aspect of a nation or race, Islam consider that person to be one of them, but that is not why this greeting becomes prohibited. This is just to remind ourselves to not lose our identity.
Christmas is a religious celebration for the birth of Jesus, and there are billions of Christians who pray in the church on this day, and consider this to be the most sacred day. There are some who consider it to be a secular holiday, but those are still following the traditions of the practicing Christians. Regardless, it is pretty safe to say that Christmas is a religious holiday for some.
For Christians, worshiping God includes many things, and it varies from one sect of Christians to the next. It includes, certain time of the year, certains words uttered, certain traditions followed, certain rituals performed. Similarly, Muslims worship God by celebrating Eid, and greet each other on the day of Eid. In addition, Muslims are required to greet with salam each other, and it is considered part of worshiping Allah.
Now, the only question remains is "Is saying Merry Christmas, part of Christian worshipping tradition?" If it is, then we are prohibited to initiate or respond with that greeting. However, we can respond their greeting with a "Thank You", since we should appreciate their gesture to include us in their celebration.
For the greeting to become part of worship, we have to show that a group of followers consider it to be such, regardless of what other non-practicing people consider it to be.
Christmas is a religous celebration, where worship is performed by Christians on this day. Many church services include a traditional christmas greeting which in most part of the world is "Merry Christmas".
Following two images shows that greeting on Christmas is part of the traditions, and all such traditions performed by Pope in Catholicism are considered to be part of worship. So, greeting for Christmas is part of worship for this religion.
http://www.allvoices.com/contributed-news/7706419-merry-christmas-greeting-messages/image/69016735-pope-benedict-xvi-is-greeted-by-cardinals-during-the-traditional-exchange-of-christmas
http://www.allvoices.com/contributed-news/7706419-merry-christmas-greeting-messages/image/69016737-pope-benedict-xvi-sits-during-the-traditional-exchange-of-christmas-greetings-to-the-curia
Now, once we have proven that greeting for Christmas is part of the worship, lets look at the words used by the Pope to make that greeting. In the following offical letter, the Pope is greeting the followers with Christmas greetings, and says "...Merry Christmas and very many good wishes also for the New Year! ". Here the words "Merry Christmas" are the greeting for christmas, and rest is the wish for new year. Wishing a new year is not proven to be religous for a specific religion, and he is using it because of the proximity of the two. So, Wishing new year is not prohibited due to the fact that it is not connected to religious ceremony. However, this letter ties the words "Merry Chrsitmas" to the leader of a Christian sect using it to recognize his dedication to his beliefs, which is the definition of worship.
http://www.vatican.va/holy_father/benedict_xvi/speeches/2006/december/documents/hf_ben_xvi_spe_20061222_curia-romana_en.html
Hence, the greeting "Merry Christmas" is part of worshiping other then Allah, and is a violation of the first oath a Muslim takes when he or she becomes a Muslim. Please do not take it lightly because our faith depends upon rejecting the worship of birth and death of Jesus. If we wish someone this greeting, we are participating in the activity that glorifies the worship of someone other than Allah.
Would you wish someone, when they move in together to fornicate (couples without marraige), or they about to suicide, or stealing, or opressing someone? I hope not. So, why would you wish someone when they are celebrating commiting the biggest sin of all "Shirk" (biggest self inflicted wound or Zulm a human can do).
There is nothing wrong with wishing someone Happy New Year or Happy ThanksGiving, but it is wrong to wish a non-muslim on their religous celebration, because by definition they are celebrating "Shirk" (polytheism) and they are commiting suicide in the life hereafter.
I want all the non-muslims to succeed (become muslims), and will never cheer at their demise, which will be wishing them "Merry Christmas".
JazakAllah Khairin
a struggling muslim
AbuArman (Adnan Jumani)
Monday, December 27, 2010
Thursday, December 23, 2010
How to recognize hypocricy and eliminate it?
In the Name of Allah,
All praise is due to Allah, the creator and the sustainer of all creation.
If I say something wrong it is from my ego, and if I speak the truth it is from Allah.
Update on Islamic Center of Windermere: Sorry for the short notice, but the meeting is delayed until further notice. Someone has presented an alternative which I would like to discuss in person before moving forward with a general meeting.
"And of mankind, there are some who say: "We believe in Allah and the Last Day'' while in fact they do not believe. They try to deceive Allah and those who believe, while they only deceive themselves, and perceive (it) not!" (Quran 2:8-9)
When I started to try to practice Islam, one thing that keep coming back to me was the fear that I may be a hypocrite. I could be advising others to remember Allah, but not doing it myself. Or, may be I pretend to be a Muslim, but in the depths of my heart, there exist a doubt on Allah's existence. Until today, it is a constant fear, and sometimes I have caught myself acting hypocritacilly, and asked forgiveness from Allah. So, I speak from experience on this topic.
Thankfully, Quran and Sunnah provides a detection mechanism to find hypocrisy in our lives, and remove it once we find it. Before we dive into that mechanism, we have to list the two different types of Nifaq (hypocricy).
a) Greater (An-Nifaaq Al-Akbar): To present an outward appearance of belief in Allah, his Angels, his books, his messengers, the last day, etc. while concealing withing that which negates all or some of that. This is the hypocrisy which the Prophet (PBUH) confronted during his life and the ones who Allah said in the Qur’an that they are in "the lowest depth of hell-fire".
b) Lesser (An-Nifaaq Al-Asghar) or hypocrisy of action: To present an outward appearance of good and good deeds while concealing within that which negates that.
Ayah above refers to hypocricy in belief which is the worst kind of hypocrisy. Punishment for it is worst than the punishment of others in hell.
" The hypocrites are in the lowest level of the Fire. You will not find any one to help them,” (Quran 4:145)
Allah provided a detection mechanism for them in the following ayah. An hypocrite in belief would assure others of their strong beleives when in the masjid or religous discussion, but when in a more secular gathering or alone, he/she would downplay being a Muslim.
“And when they meet those who believe, they say: “We believe,” but when they are alone with their Shayâtin (devils – polytheists, hypocrites, etc.), they say: “Truly, we are with you; verily, we were but mocking.” (Quran 2:14)
Another way to detect is the habbit of avoiding all gatherings or situations where they might have to act upon their beleives.
“And when it is said to them: “Come to what Allâh has sent down and to the Messenger (Muhammad),” you (Muhammad) see the hypocrites turn away from you (Muhammad) with aversion.” (Quran 4:61)
It is not easy to eliminate hypocricy in belief, because the belief in Allah never took root in the heart. For them, Islam is a title and they play along. Only way out is to accept Allah as the master and remove the doubts from the heart.
Hypocrisy in action is the lesser type, and is more common among muslims. It means that a person has whole hartedly believed in oneness of Allah, and is muslim in heart. However, some of their actions are hypocritical. Following is the general rule to identify hypocrisy of that type.
"Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Amr:
The Prophet said, "Whoever has the following four (characteristics) will be a pure hypocrite and whoever has one of the following four characteristics will have one characteristic of hypocrisy unless and until he gives it up.
1. Whenever he is entrusted, he betrays.
2. Whenever he speaks, he tells a lie.
3. Whenever he makes a covenant, he proves treacherous.
4. Whenever he quarrels, he behaves in a very imprudent, evil and insulting manner."
(Bukhari Volume 1, Book 2, Number 33)
This is a very powerful hadith, becuase it lays it out in simple terms what are the symptoms of hypocrisy. So, if one has the four characteristics listed above, our Prophet (PBUH) is guaranteeing him or her to be a hypocrite, regardless of his other deeds. I hope none of us possess these four at the same time. When I read this hadith a while ago, it was very scary to me because I was on occassion liying, betraying the trust, breaking promises, and in the heat of the argument say whithout thinking if it is true or not.
One who has these character traits in interaction with other people is most likely to have them with regard to Allah and his Prophet (PBUH). That is why the existence of them is a ‘sign’ of the existence of greater hypocrisy, possibly.
Another sign is missing fajr and Isha salat regularly.
"Narrated Abu Hurairah (RAA) Rasualullah (SAW) said, "No prayer is harder for the hypocrites than the Fajr and the 'Isha' prayers..."(Bukhari Volume 1, Book 11, Hadith # 626)
Very common variation of hypocricy that I have noticed is that some people will act differently with a politician or rich guest, but when they leave they would act differently. Theses are the telling sign of possible deep hypocrisy, since it is a disease.
Hypocrisy in action is a disease of the heart, and it can spread fast to become the hypocrisy of belief, so we have to act fast and keep our heart healthy. Another way of looking at hypocrisy is the love for this world, because when our actions are not reflecting our beliefs, it is usually because our beliefs have become inconvenient, or we are expecting worldly loss due to our actions according to Islam. Our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has called this love for the world "rust for the heart", and prescribed two medicines below.
The Prophet [saw] once remarked: “Surely, these hearts get rusted as iron gets rusted in water." He was asked how the heart’s rust could be rubbed off. He replied: "By frequent remembrance of death and the recitation of the Qur’an.”
[Bayhaqi]
Beside these medicines, one can bring sincerity in their actions, and have an intention to align their deeds with their beliefs. Also, speaking the truth, keeping the promise, keeping the trust, and not transgressing during argument can help reduce hypocrisy in our lives.
We should fear hypocrisy like we fear diseases, and do a regular checkup to see if any of our actions are hyocritical.
JazakAllah Khairin
A struggling Muslim
AbuArman (Adnan Juman)
All praise is due to Allah, the creator and the sustainer of all creation.
If I say something wrong it is from my ego, and if I speak the truth it is from Allah.
Update on Islamic Center of Windermere: Sorry for the short notice, but the meeting is delayed until further notice. Someone has presented an alternative which I would like to discuss in person before moving forward with a general meeting.
"And of mankind, there are some who say: "We believe in Allah and the Last Day'' while in fact they do not believe. They try to deceive Allah and those who believe, while they only deceive themselves, and perceive (it) not!" (Quran 2:8-9)
When I started to try to practice Islam, one thing that keep coming back to me was the fear that I may be a hypocrite. I could be advising others to remember Allah, but not doing it myself. Or, may be I pretend to be a Muslim, but in the depths of my heart, there exist a doubt on Allah's existence. Until today, it is a constant fear, and sometimes I have caught myself acting hypocritacilly, and asked forgiveness from Allah. So, I speak from experience on this topic.
Thankfully, Quran and Sunnah provides a detection mechanism to find hypocrisy in our lives, and remove it once we find it. Before we dive into that mechanism, we have to list the two different types of Nifaq (hypocricy).
a) Greater (An-Nifaaq Al-Akbar): To present an outward appearance of belief in Allah, his Angels, his books, his messengers, the last day, etc. while concealing withing that which negates all or some of that. This is the hypocrisy which the Prophet (PBUH) confronted during his life and the ones who Allah said in the Qur’an that they are in "the lowest depth of hell-fire".
b) Lesser (An-Nifaaq Al-Asghar) or hypocrisy of action: To present an outward appearance of good and good deeds while concealing within that which negates that.
Ayah above refers to hypocricy in belief which is the worst kind of hypocrisy. Punishment for it is worst than the punishment of others in hell.
" The hypocrites are in the lowest level of the Fire. You will not find any one to help them,” (Quran 4:145)
Allah provided a detection mechanism for them in the following ayah. An hypocrite in belief would assure others of their strong beleives when in the masjid or religous discussion, but when in a more secular gathering or alone, he/she would downplay being a Muslim.
“And when they meet those who believe, they say: “We believe,” but when they are alone with their Shayâtin (devils – polytheists, hypocrites, etc.), they say: “Truly, we are with you; verily, we were but mocking.” (Quran 2:14)
Another way to detect is the habbit of avoiding all gatherings or situations where they might have to act upon their beleives.
“And when it is said to them: “Come to what Allâh has sent down and to the Messenger (Muhammad),” you (Muhammad) see the hypocrites turn away from you (Muhammad) with aversion.” (Quran 4:61)
It is not easy to eliminate hypocricy in belief, because the belief in Allah never took root in the heart. For them, Islam is a title and they play along. Only way out is to accept Allah as the master and remove the doubts from the heart.
Hypocrisy in action is the lesser type, and is more common among muslims. It means that a person has whole hartedly believed in oneness of Allah, and is muslim in heart. However, some of their actions are hypocritical. Following is the general rule to identify hypocrisy of that type.
"Narrated 'Abdullah bin 'Amr:
The Prophet said, "Whoever has the following four (characteristics) will be a pure hypocrite and whoever has one of the following four characteristics will have one characteristic of hypocrisy unless and until he gives it up.
1. Whenever he is entrusted, he betrays.
2. Whenever he speaks, he tells a lie.
3. Whenever he makes a covenant, he proves treacherous.
4. Whenever he quarrels, he behaves in a very imprudent, evil and insulting manner."
(Bukhari Volume 1, Book 2, Number 33)
This is a very powerful hadith, becuase it lays it out in simple terms what are the symptoms of hypocrisy. So, if one has the four characteristics listed above, our Prophet (PBUH) is guaranteeing him or her to be a hypocrite, regardless of his other deeds. I hope none of us possess these four at the same time. When I read this hadith a while ago, it was very scary to me because I was on occassion liying, betraying the trust, breaking promises, and in the heat of the argument say whithout thinking if it is true or not.
One who has these character traits in interaction with other people is most likely to have them with regard to Allah and his Prophet (PBUH). That is why the existence of them is a ‘sign’ of the existence of greater hypocrisy, possibly.
Another sign is missing fajr and Isha salat regularly.
"Narrated Abu Hurairah (RAA) Rasualullah (SAW) said, "No prayer is harder for the hypocrites than the Fajr and the 'Isha' prayers..."(Bukhari Volume 1, Book 11, Hadith # 626)
Very common variation of hypocricy that I have noticed is that some people will act differently with a politician or rich guest, but when they leave they would act differently. Theses are the telling sign of possible deep hypocrisy, since it is a disease.
Hypocrisy in action is a disease of the heart, and it can spread fast to become the hypocrisy of belief, so we have to act fast and keep our heart healthy. Another way of looking at hypocrisy is the love for this world, because when our actions are not reflecting our beliefs, it is usually because our beliefs have become inconvenient, or we are expecting worldly loss due to our actions according to Islam. Our Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) has called this love for the world "rust for the heart", and prescribed two medicines below.
The Prophet [saw] once remarked: “Surely, these hearts get rusted as iron gets rusted in water." He was asked how the heart’s rust could be rubbed off. He replied: "By frequent remembrance of death and the recitation of the Qur’an.”
[Bayhaqi]
Beside these medicines, one can bring sincerity in their actions, and have an intention to align their deeds with their beliefs. Also, speaking the truth, keeping the promise, keeping the trust, and not transgressing during argument can help reduce hypocrisy in our lives.
We should fear hypocrisy like we fear diseases, and do a regular checkup to see if any of our actions are hyocritical.
JazakAllah Khairin
A struggling Muslim
AbuArman (Adnan Juman)
Friday, December 3, 2010
Is Watching TV Haram?
In the Name of Allah,
All praise is due to Allah, the creator and the sustainer.
I had many stories to tell from hajj, but I will do that some other time. Some thing that occupied my mind for a while, and I received many questions on this, when I sent the warning on Jadoo TV. The big question that many practicing muslims wonder is whether watching television Haram. (remember that non-practicing muslim would not care much either way, as they are done with Islam once walk out of Masjid)
Since I was a kid, we had a television set, and we watched the once a day program for kids, or once a day news cast, or once a day drama etc. It was usually a family affair, and the most we spent was 6 to 7 hours a week. In Pakistan, during those days, there was a fear of Allah, and programs were approved for modesty, and I don't recall anytime where my father would have got up and put his hand on my eyes and said that this is not for kids, or even close to it.
Unfortunately, last I visited Pakistan, some channels were so out of line that I had to look away from the screen as I was embarrassed. So, I don't think I need to mention the situation of TV channels in USA. Of course, there are channels and programs that are somewhat modest.
Now, if we are trying to follow Islam, how do we know if we can watch TV?
We have to look at several aspect of this act, and decide for each possibility of prohibition.
1. Is transmitting live video haram?
Making images is discouraged, if not prohibited in Islam, in general. This includes taking photographs for personal use. Exception have been given for picutres to identify someone. We should avoid as much as we can from taking pictures or let anyone take our pictures. Following hadith shows the sever punishment for that.
Hadith - Bukhari 3:428, Narrated Said bin Abu Al-Hasan
While I was with Ibn 'Abbas a man came and said, "O father of 'Abbas! My sustenance is from my manual profession and I make these pictures." Ibn 'Abbas said, "I will tell you only what I heard from Allah's Apostle . I heard him saying, 'Whoever makes a picture will be punished by Allah till he puts life in it, and he will never be able to put life in it.' " Hearing this, that man heaved a sigh and his face turned pale. Ibn 'Abbas said to him, "What a pity! If you insist on making pictures I advise you to make pictures of trees and any other unanimated objects."
Hadith - At-Tirmidhi
"On the Day of Resurrection a neck will stretch forth from Hell; it will have two eyes to see, two ears to hear, and a tongue to speak. It will say, "I have been appointed to take care of three types of people: every arrogant tyrant, every person who called on some deity other than Allaah (swt) and those who made pictures" [at-Tirmidhi stated that this hadith was saheeh - at-Takhweef min an-Naar, p.179, See also Jaami' al-Usool, 10/518, the editor said its isnaad is hasan]
Hadith - Muslim, Narrated Ali ibn AbuTalib
AbulHayyaj al-Asadi told that Ali ibn AbuTalib said to him: Should I not send you on the same mission as Allah's Messenger sent me? Do not leave an image without obliterating it, or a high grave without levelling it. This hadith has been reported by Habib with the same chain of transmitters and he said: (do not leave) a picture without obliterating it.
On the other hand, video broadcast that we don't capture or keep for non-educational purposes is exempt from this, becuase once we see it, it has disappeared, which is very close to our eye sight. Within our eyes, images are formed that are transmitted at a certain speed to show us what we see. So, the technology of television braodcast is halal.
2. Are there some programs prohibited?
Every intelligent person should come to this conclusion that even if TV technology is halal, there could be transmissions that are prohibited to watch, as they are prohibited to see from our eyes.
I am not going to list all, but here are some.
a) Musical instruments are haram.
Hadith - Bukhari 7:494
Narrated Abu 'Amir or Abu Malik Al-Ash'ari that he heard the Prophet saying, "From among my followers there will be some people who will consider illegal sexual intercourse, the wearing of silk, the drinking of alcoholic drinks, and the use of musical instruments as lawful.
b) Indecent or shameful acts are haram to watch or perform.
When they do aught that is shameful, they say: "We found our fathers doing so"; and "Allah commanded us thus": Say: "Nay, Allah never commands what is shameful: do ye say of Allah what ye know not?" (Quran 7:28 )
c) Watching after hearing Adhan, or missing salat due to TV is haram.
And of mankind is he who purchases idle talks (i.e. music, singing, etc.) to mislead (men) from the Path of Allah without knowledge, and takes it (the Path of Allah, the Verses of the Qur'an) by way of mockery. For such there will be a humiliating torment (in the Hell-Fire). (Quran 31:6)
d) Anything on TV that leads to haram should be avoided as well.
3. Is it prohibited to entertain and pass time?
In general, Islam allows everything in our life, except a few, which means everything is halal, except which is explicitly prohibited. So, entertainment or passing time is an importann aspect of life, and it is allowable. However, some may find more closeness to Allah in reducing the pass time and devoting to zikr of Allah.
There is a big warning sign here, because the entertainment and pass time should not take us away from Salat, or our responsibilities. If that happens, then anything we are doing becomes haram.
Now, we know that watching TV, in general, is allowed but we need to be careful on how and what we watch. I have struggled alot with this, because I loved entertaining myself through TV. Slowly, I have started to reduce the time, and eliminate haram content.
My suggestion is to improve our TV habbits slowly but consistently, but stop watching musical, and indecent programs right away, and never let this habbit delay your salat. I have seen the difference it has made in my life, and avoiding haram content has created more interest in Allah, because anything we see affects our state of mind.
In the end, I have to mention that some people are confused due to fatwaas from some scholars advising not to watch TV or making it haram. I have not seen a single fatwaas yet, but I see the following.
http://www.telegraphindia.com/1071220/asp/nation/story_8688288.asp
I don't know if it is true about Deoband, but if it was, they are not prohibiting it but suggesting avoidance to prevent slipup. Also, the word "Fatwaa" means "legal opinion" not a law, which means if the evidence supporting that opinion is not sound we can reject it. Of course, if you lack knowledge to evaluate the evidences, you find trusted opinions until someone can provide stronger evidence refuting it and are easy to interpret.
Please don't make things haram for yourself that are halal, and make it easy on yourself to follow the beautiful religion of Islam. Balance is the key.
Salman al-Farsi reported that when the Messenger of Allah (peace be on him) was asked about animal fat, cheese, and fur, he replied, "The halal is that which Allah has made lawful in His Book and the haram is that which He has forbidden, and that concerning which He is silent He has permitted as a favor to you." (Reported by al-Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah.)
If you beleive in Allah, and the day of judgement, let us take an oath to not let television corrupt our minds or miss the duties toward Allah and his creation, but enjoy it if we wish in the proper way.
JazakAllah Khairin
A struggling muslim
AbuArman (Adnan)
All praise is due to Allah, the creator and the sustainer.
I had many stories to tell from hajj, but I will do that some other time. Some thing that occupied my mind for a while, and I received many questions on this, when I sent the warning on Jadoo TV. The big question that many practicing muslims wonder is whether watching television Haram. (remember that non-practicing muslim would not care much either way, as they are done with Islam once walk out of Masjid)
Since I was a kid, we had a television set, and we watched the once a day program for kids, or once a day news cast, or once a day drama etc. It was usually a family affair, and the most we spent was 6 to 7 hours a week. In Pakistan, during those days, there was a fear of Allah, and programs were approved for modesty, and I don't recall anytime where my father would have got up and put his hand on my eyes and said that this is not for kids, or even close to it.
Unfortunately, last I visited Pakistan, some channels were so out of line that I had to look away from the screen as I was embarrassed. So, I don't think I need to mention the situation of TV channels in USA. Of course, there are channels and programs that are somewhat modest.
Now, if we are trying to follow Islam, how do we know if we can watch TV?
We have to look at several aspect of this act, and decide for each possibility of prohibition.
1. Is transmitting live video haram?
Making images is discouraged, if not prohibited in Islam, in general. This includes taking photographs for personal use. Exception have been given for picutres to identify someone. We should avoid as much as we can from taking pictures or let anyone take our pictures. Following hadith shows the sever punishment for that.
Hadith - Bukhari 3:428, Narrated Said bin Abu Al-Hasan
While I was with Ibn 'Abbas a man came and said, "O father of 'Abbas! My sustenance is from my manual profession and I make these pictures." Ibn 'Abbas said, "I will tell you only what I heard from Allah's Apostle . I heard him saying, 'Whoever makes a picture will be punished by Allah till he puts life in it, and he will never be able to put life in it.' " Hearing this, that man heaved a sigh and his face turned pale. Ibn 'Abbas said to him, "What a pity! If you insist on making pictures I advise you to make pictures of trees and any other unanimated objects."
Hadith - At-Tirmidhi
"On the Day of Resurrection a neck will stretch forth from Hell; it will have two eyes to see, two ears to hear, and a tongue to speak. It will say, "I have been appointed to take care of three types of people: every arrogant tyrant, every person who called on some deity other than Allaah (swt) and those who made pictures" [at-Tirmidhi stated that this hadith was saheeh - at-Takhweef min an-Naar, p.179, See also Jaami' al-Usool, 10/518, the editor said its isnaad is hasan]
Hadith - Muslim, Narrated Ali ibn AbuTalib
AbulHayyaj al-Asadi told that Ali ibn AbuTalib said to him: Should I not send you on the same mission as Allah's Messenger sent me? Do not leave an image without obliterating it, or a high grave without levelling it. This hadith has been reported by Habib with the same chain of transmitters and he said: (do not leave) a picture without obliterating it.
On the other hand, video broadcast that we don't capture or keep for non-educational purposes is exempt from this, becuase once we see it, it has disappeared, which is very close to our eye sight. Within our eyes, images are formed that are transmitted at a certain speed to show us what we see. So, the technology of television braodcast is halal.
2. Are there some programs prohibited?
Every intelligent person should come to this conclusion that even if TV technology is halal, there could be transmissions that are prohibited to watch, as they are prohibited to see from our eyes.
I am not going to list all, but here are some.
a) Musical instruments are haram.
Hadith - Bukhari 7:494
Narrated Abu 'Amir or Abu Malik Al-Ash'ari that he heard the Prophet saying, "From among my followers there will be some people who will consider illegal sexual intercourse, the wearing of silk, the drinking of alcoholic drinks, and the use of musical instruments as lawful.
b) Indecent or shameful acts are haram to watch or perform.
When they do aught that is shameful, they say: "We found our fathers doing so"; and "Allah commanded us thus": Say: "Nay, Allah never commands what is shameful: do ye say of Allah what ye know not?" (Quran 7:28 )
c) Watching after hearing Adhan, or missing salat due to TV is haram.
And of mankind is he who purchases idle talks (i.e. music, singing, etc.) to mislead (men) from the Path of Allah without knowledge, and takes it (the Path of Allah, the Verses of the Qur'an) by way of mockery. For such there will be a humiliating torment (in the Hell-Fire). (Quran 31:6)
d) Anything on TV that leads to haram should be avoided as well.
3. Is it prohibited to entertain and pass time?
In general, Islam allows everything in our life, except a few, which means everything is halal, except which is explicitly prohibited. So, entertainment or passing time is an importann aspect of life, and it is allowable. However, some may find more closeness to Allah in reducing the pass time and devoting to zikr of Allah.
There is a big warning sign here, because the entertainment and pass time should not take us away from Salat, or our responsibilities. If that happens, then anything we are doing becomes haram.
Now, we know that watching TV, in general, is allowed but we need to be careful on how and what we watch. I have struggled alot with this, because I loved entertaining myself through TV. Slowly, I have started to reduce the time, and eliminate haram content.
My suggestion is to improve our TV habbits slowly but consistently, but stop watching musical, and indecent programs right away, and never let this habbit delay your salat. I have seen the difference it has made in my life, and avoiding haram content has created more interest in Allah, because anything we see affects our state of mind.
In the end, I have to mention that some people are confused due to fatwaas from some scholars advising not to watch TV or making it haram. I have not seen a single fatwaas yet, but I see the following.
http://www.telegraphindia.com/1071220/asp/nation/story_8688288.asp
I don't know if it is true about Deoband, but if it was, they are not prohibiting it but suggesting avoidance to prevent slipup. Also, the word "Fatwaa" means "legal opinion" not a law, which means if the evidence supporting that opinion is not sound we can reject it. Of course, if you lack knowledge to evaluate the evidences, you find trusted opinions until someone can provide stronger evidence refuting it and are easy to interpret.
Please don't make things haram for yourself that are halal, and make it easy on yourself to follow the beautiful religion of Islam. Balance is the key.
Salman al-Farsi reported that when the Messenger of Allah (peace be on him) was asked about animal fat, cheese, and fur, he replied, "The halal is that which Allah has made lawful in His Book and the haram is that which He has forbidden, and that concerning which He is silent He has permitted as a favor to you." (Reported by al-Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah.)
If you beleive in Allah, and the day of judgement, let us take an oath to not let television corrupt our minds or miss the duties toward Allah and his creation, but enjoy it if we wish in the proper way.
JazakAllah Khairin
A struggling muslim
AbuArman (Adnan)
Friday, November 5, 2010
Hajj: Rehearsal for the last journey.
In the name of Allah,
All praise is due to whom in his hands is my life.
فِيهِ ءَايَـٰتُۢ بَيِّنَـٰتٌ۬ مَّقَامُ إِبۡرَٲهِيمَۖ وَمَن دَخَلَهُ ۥ كَانَ ءَامِنً۬اۗ وَلِلَّهِ عَلَى ٱلنَّاسِ حِجُّ ٱلۡبَيۡتِ مَنِ ٱسۡتَطَاعَ إِلَيۡهِ سَبِيلاً۬ۚ وَمَن كَفَرَ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ غَنِىٌّ عَنِ ٱلۡعَـٰلَمِينَ (٩٧)
"In it are signs manifest; (for example), the Station of Abraham; whoever enters it attains security; pilgrimage thereto is a duty men owe to Allah―those who can afford the journey; but if any deny faith; Allah stands not in need of any of His creatures." (Quran 3:97)
Allah's Messenger (p.b.u.h.) said, "He who is not prevented from performing the pilgrimage by an obvious necessity, a tyrannical ruler, or a disease which confines him at home, and dies without having performed the pilgrimage, may die if he wishes as a Jew, or if he wishes as a Christian." (Tirmidhi: 2535, Narrated Abu Umamah) (Darimi transmitted it)
When I was young I was told that Hajj is something you do once in a life time, and you can do it anytime in your life. They recommended to do it in the last days of life, because it will be easier to refrain from sin after that. During Hajj, there is a commitment to Allah that we repent for our sins, and repentence is only accepted if the intention is to never do that sin.
Recently, I found out that Hajj becomes fardh upon us once we are adult, and can afford it, and there is no physical limiations. This made me realize that I had no reason not to go for Hajj. So, I am intending to depart on Hajj tomorrow, InshaAllah. I would like to suggest you all who haven't perform hajj, and are able to go to make intention for next year. You don't have to follow Indian/Pakistani culture where people sin, sin, and sin, untill old age when sinning becomes difficult, then they go to Hajj. No offense intended to whom that follow this logic, but it is a little risky one.
So, what is the purpose for Hajj? Hajj rituals are very similar to what will happen to us on the day of judgement. We all will be in large crowd, moving, standing, reflecting on our lives. We will be moved to the grounds of arafat, and will stand before Allah. There will be no duties on that day except to be attentive to Allah.
Hence, it is a rehearsal for the difficult day to come. Allah, with his mercy, has allowed us the sneak preview for the movie to be released. On top of that, we are given opportunity to improve our results on that day by realizing our faults, promise to stop them, ask forgiveness, and promise to never repeat them. Practice makes perfect, so get on the practice suit and go to Hajj.
One who delays hajj intentionally is similar to the one who receives a letter of large inheritance from a distant relative, and delays responding to the letter. As a muslim, we inherited the internal knowledge of how we can ammend our lives, but this dunya keeps us distracted.
Also, like any other deeds, intention is what makes that deed count. So, if the person sincerely cut the ties from the world during the Hajj, and repent for the sins, and keeps the promise made during Hajj may have their Hajj accepted.
In fact, if you are not going to hajj this year, you also have an opportunity to gain tons of rewards by fasting on first 9 days, or atleast on 9th Dhul-Hijja (Arafat day). And, do good deeds during these days.
"By the dawn; by the 10 nights" [Noble Quran 89:1-2]
Ibn Abbas, Ibn al-Zubayr, Mujahid and others of the earlier and later generations said that this refers to the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. Ibn Kathir said: "This is the correct opinion." [Tafsir Ibn Kathir, 8/413]
Narrated Ibn Abbas:
The Prophet said, "No good deeds done on other days are superior to those done on these (first ten days of Dhul Hijja)." Then some companions of the Prophet said, "Not even Jihad?" He replied, "Not even Jihad, except that of a man who does it by putting himself and his property in danger (for Allah's sake) and does not return with any of those things." (Bukhari Volume 2, Book 15, Number 86)
"...I seek from Allah that fasting on the day of 'Arafa may atone for the sins of the preceding and the coming years. " (Muslim Book 006, Number 2602)
If you beleive in Allah, and the last day, I recommend the following article in details and follow as much as you can.
http://www.islamicfinder.org/articles/article.php?id=420&lang
I ask forgiveness from you all for any sins I commited against you. Please show mercy upon me, and Allah will show mercy upon you.
If you have a specific dua that you want me to beg from Allah, please reply to this, and give me names and details, as you feel comfortable. Please pray for my Hajj to become Hajj Mabrur.
Jazakallah Khairin
AbuArman
A struggling muslim.
All praise is due to whom in his hands is my life.
فِيهِ ءَايَـٰتُۢ بَيِّنَـٰتٌ۬ مَّقَامُ إِبۡرَٲهِيمَۖ وَمَن دَخَلَهُ ۥ كَانَ ءَامِنً۬اۗ وَلِلَّهِ عَلَى ٱلنَّاسِ حِجُّ ٱلۡبَيۡتِ مَنِ ٱسۡتَطَاعَ إِلَيۡهِ سَبِيلاً۬ۚ وَمَن كَفَرَ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ غَنِىٌّ عَنِ ٱلۡعَـٰلَمِينَ (٩٧)
"In it are signs manifest; (for example), the Station of Abraham; whoever enters it attains security; pilgrimage thereto is a duty men owe to Allah―those who can afford the journey; but if any deny faith; Allah stands not in need of any of His creatures." (Quran 3:97)
Allah's Messenger (p.b.u.h.) said, "He who is not prevented from performing the pilgrimage by an obvious necessity, a tyrannical ruler, or a disease which confines him at home, and dies without having performed the pilgrimage, may die if he wishes as a Jew, or if he wishes as a Christian." (Tirmidhi: 2535, Narrated Abu Umamah) (Darimi transmitted it)
When I was young I was told that Hajj is something you do once in a life time, and you can do it anytime in your life. They recommended to do it in the last days of life, because it will be easier to refrain from sin after that. During Hajj, there is a commitment to Allah that we repent for our sins, and repentence is only accepted if the intention is to never do that sin.
Recently, I found out that Hajj becomes fardh upon us once we are adult, and can afford it, and there is no physical limiations. This made me realize that I had no reason not to go for Hajj. So, I am intending to depart on Hajj tomorrow, InshaAllah. I would like to suggest you all who haven't perform hajj, and are able to go to make intention for next year. You don't have to follow Indian/Pakistani culture where people sin, sin, and sin, untill old age when sinning becomes difficult, then they go to Hajj. No offense intended to whom that follow this logic, but it is a little risky one.
So, what is the purpose for Hajj? Hajj rituals are very similar to what will happen to us on the day of judgement. We all will be in large crowd, moving, standing, reflecting on our lives. We will be moved to the grounds of arafat, and will stand before Allah. There will be no duties on that day except to be attentive to Allah.
Hence, it is a rehearsal for the difficult day to come. Allah, with his mercy, has allowed us the sneak preview for the movie to be released. On top of that, we are given opportunity to improve our results on that day by realizing our faults, promise to stop them, ask forgiveness, and promise to never repeat them. Practice makes perfect, so get on the practice suit and go to Hajj.
One who delays hajj intentionally is similar to the one who receives a letter of large inheritance from a distant relative, and delays responding to the letter. As a muslim, we inherited the internal knowledge of how we can ammend our lives, but this dunya keeps us distracted.
Also, like any other deeds, intention is what makes that deed count. So, if the person sincerely cut the ties from the world during the Hajj, and repent for the sins, and keeps the promise made during Hajj may have their Hajj accepted.
In fact, if you are not going to hajj this year, you also have an opportunity to gain tons of rewards by fasting on first 9 days, or atleast on 9th Dhul-Hijja (Arafat day). And, do good deeds during these days.
"By the dawn; by the 10 nights" [Noble Quran 89:1-2]
Ibn Abbas, Ibn al-Zubayr, Mujahid and others of the earlier and later generations said that this refers to the first ten days of Dhul-Hijjah. Ibn Kathir said: "This is the correct opinion." [Tafsir Ibn Kathir, 8/413]
Narrated Ibn Abbas:
The Prophet said, "No good deeds done on other days are superior to those done on these (first ten days of Dhul Hijja)." Then some companions of the Prophet said, "Not even Jihad?" He replied, "Not even Jihad, except that of a man who does it by putting himself and his property in danger (for Allah's sake) and does not return with any of those things." (Bukhari Volume 2, Book 15, Number 86)
"...I seek from Allah that fasting on the day of 'Arafa may atone for the sins of the preceding and the coming years. " (Muslim Book 006, Number 2602)
If you beleive in Allah, and the last day, I recommend the following article in details and follow as much as you can.
http://www.islamicfinder.org/articles/article.php?id=420&lang
I ask forgiveness from you all for any sins I commited against you. Please show mercy upon me, and Allah will show mercy upon you.
If you have a specific dua that you want me to beg from Allah, please reply to this, and give me names and details, as you feel comfortable. Please pray for my Hajj to become Hajj Mabrur.
Jazakallah Khairin
AbuArman
A struggling muslim.
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
Loving Muhammad (PBUH)!!
In the Name of Allah,
None worthy of worship except Allah, and Muhammad is his messenger.
"Say to them: If you love God, follow (and love and honor) me, and God will love you" (3:31)
Narrated Abu Huraira:
“Allah’s Apostle said, “By Him in Whose Hands my life is, none of you will have faith till he loves me more than his father and his
children.” (Volume 1, Book 2, Number 14)
As a Muslim, we know what we know because Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) told us, so beleiving in him is the critical part of our faith, and everyone knows that.
I am not too much interested in that, because it becomes part of declaration of faith. I would like to talk about who Muhammad (PBUH) was.
Last few years I have been studying his life, and I have seen him in a different light than most of the Muslims. What intrigued me was the early period of his prophethood, when he received the first revelation. In early days, he wasn't too sure about the message and had doubts. His wife took him to her cousin who was a christian, and here is what they talked.
"Allah's Apostle asked, "Will they drive me out?" Waraqa replied in the affirmative and said, "Anyone (man) who came with something similar to what you have brought was treated with hostility; and if I should remain alive till the day when you will be turned out then I would support you strongly." But after a few days Waraqa died " (Bukhari Volume 1 Book 1 #3)
This shows the humanity of him, and the emotions that we all go through if we are uncertain of something. There was a pause in revelation after first one, and Prophet (PBUH) started to doubt that there will be ever another revelation. This is the period where he was starting to getting used to and convincing himself that he has to do this.
Overall the first 13 years were the most difficult of his life, specially the last year of the 13 were so depressing that it is called the year of sorrow. During this time, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had to use every ounce of his will power to keep going. It was so easy to give up and join the family. He could have become passive, and said that it is not my job. He did not. He took the taunts, the jokes, the physical humiliation, the peer pressure,... head on, and kept going.
I love Muhammad (PBUH) for that. I love him for his perseverance. I love him for his conviction. I love him for his confidence. I love him for his steadfastedness. I love him for his strength within weakness. I love him for sacrificing the honor for the truth. I love him for not compromising the principle for unity. I love him for speaking up. I love him for not second guessing his intentions. I love him for trusting Allah when all of us would have run away. I love him for going against family, friends, establishment to preach Islam.
We should not love him because he asked us to love him. It is not love when you force yourself. You have to fall in love with someone. You have to find something in that person that makes it impossible for you to think negative about them.
Our love should reflect in our action. If you love him, listen to him. If you love him, follow what he asked us to do. If you love him, be like him. If you love him, do something to show your affection, just like you would to someone else.
What have we done to show that we love him? Do we really love him? Or, do we love some half man half god figure that some present (May allah protect me for even thinking about this)? What is one thing that we don't like, but we do it becuase we love him? What do we have in common with him?
I can assure that none of us will enter Jannah, until we have an atom worth of faith, and we will have no faith until we love Muhammad (PBUH) more than we love our kids, our wife, our car, our briefcase, our jobs, our hotel, our house, our bed, our parents, our free will, our wishes, our status as Imam of the masjid, our status in the family, our money, our favourite player, our favourite sports, our favourite food...
If we truly love him, there should always be one question in our mind. Before we do this, how did Muhammad (PBUH) do this, or how did he asked us to do? Once you know the answer to that, there should be no reason to not follow his command, becuase his command is the way to Allah.
"Whoever splits from the Messenger after the guidance is clear to him and follows other than the path of the believers, We shall entrust him to what he has turned to and expose him unto Hell - an evil retreat!" (Quran4:115)
O Allah! Send your blessings/greetings (Salawat) on Muhammad and his family, the same way as You sent Your blessings/greetings on Abraham's family. You are indeed worthy of all praise, full of glory
JazakAllah Khairin
AbuArman
A struggling Muslim
None worthy of worship except Allah, and Muhammad is his messenger.
"Say to them: If you love God, follow (and love and honor) me, and God will love you" (3:31)
Narrated Abu Huraira:
“Allah’s Apostle said, “By Him in Whose Hands my life is, none of you will have faith till he loves me more than his father and his
children.” (Volume 1, Book 2, Number 14)
As a Muslim, we know what we know because Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) told us, so beleiving in him is the critical part of our faith, and everyone knows that.
I am not too much interested in that, because it becomes part of declaration of faith. I would like to talk about who Muhammad (PBUH) was.
Last few years I have been studying his life, and I have seen him in a different light than most of the Muslims. What intrigued me was the early period of his prophethood, when he received the first revelation. In early days, he wasn't too sure about the message and had doubts. His wife took him to her cousin who was a christian, and here is what they talked.
"Allah's Apostle asked, "Will they drive me out?" Waraqa replied in the affirmative and said, "Anyone (man) who came with something similar to what you have brought was treated with hostility; and if I should remain alive till the day when you will be turned out then I would support you strongly." But after a few days Waraqa died " (Bukhari Volume 1 Book 1 #3)
This shows the humanity of him, and the emotions that we all go through if we are uncertain of something. There was a pause in revelation after first one, and Prophet (PBUH) started to doubt that there will be ever another revelation. This is the period where he was starting to getting used to and convincing himself that he has to do this.
Overall the first 13 years were the most difficult of his life, specially the last year of the 13 were so depressing that it is called the year of sorrow. During this time, Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) had to use every ounce of his will power to keep going. It was so easy to give up and join the family. He could have become passive, and said that it is not my job. He did not. He took the taunts, the jokes, the physical humiliation, the peer pressure,... head on, and kept going.
I love Muhammad (PBUH) for that. I love him for his perseverance. I love him for his conviction. I love him for his confidence. I love him for his steadfastedness. I love him for his strength within weakness. I love him for sacrificing the honor for the truth. I love him for not compromising the principle for unity. I love him for speaking up. I love him for not second guessing his intentions. I love him for trusting Allah when all of us would have run away. I love him for going against family, friends, establishment to preach Islam.
We should not love him because he asked us to love him. It is not love when you force yourself. You have to fall in love with someone. You have to find something in that person that makes it impossible for you to think negative about them.
Our love should reflect in our action. If you love him, listen to him. If you love him, follow what he asked us to do. If you love him, be like him. If you love him, do something to show your affection, just like you would to someone else.
What have we done to show that we love him? Do we really love him? Or, do we love some half man half god figure that some present (May allah protect me for even thinking about this)? What is one thing that we don't like, but we do it becuase we love him? What do we have in common with him?
I can assure that none of us will enter Jannah, until we have an atom worth of faith, and we will have no faith until we love Muhammad (PBUH) more than we love our kids, our wife, our car, our briefcase, our jobs, our hotel, our house, our bed, our parents, our free will, our wishes, our status as Imam of the masjid, our status in the family, our money, our favourite player, our favourite sports, our favourite food...
If we truly love him, there should always be one question in our mind. Before we do this, how did Muhammad (PBUH) do this, or how did he asked us to do? Once you know the answer to that, there should be no reason to not follow his command, becuase his command is the way to Allah.
"Whoever splits from the Messenger after the guidance is clear to him and follows other than the path of the believers, We shall entrust him to what he has turned to and expose him unto Hell - an evil retreat!" (Quran4:115)
O Allah! Send your blessings/greetings (Salawat) on Muhammad and his family, the same way as You sent Your blessings/greetings on Abraham's family. You are indeed worthy of all praise, full of glory
JazakAllah Khairin
AbuArman
A struggling Muslim
Tuesday, November 2, 2010
Is there a such thing as a Muslim but not Religous!
In the Name of Allah,
All praise due to Allah, the Creator, the Sustainer.
"And say: `My Rubb! Increase me in knowledge.'' (20:114)
"It is only those who have knowledge among His slaves that fear Allah.'' (35:28)
Mu`awiyah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah said, "When Allah wishes good for someone, He bestows upon him the understanding of Deen.''
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The seeking of knowledge is obligatory for every Muslim." - Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 74
As I walk in late to the Tafsir class on Sunday, I saw all the people who were sitting listening, and there was something a miss. See, after some salat, there will be a person who stands up and announce that there will be a small talk on deen (religion)afterwards, and, the whole Jamat that is focused on bringing people to the Masjid, and, in some cases, take people to far masajid, was missing. [There was one from that Jamat there but that was unusual].
Then, there are some brothers who come for cricket at Asar, they were missing. Also, there are some who are huffaz, and lead salat in some cases were missing.
Then, there are some brothers who come to Maghrib on Sunday were missing.
Then, Arab brothers who come to salat regularly were missing.
Then, there are brothers who come for almost every fardh salat were missing.
Then, there are brothers who are leading the community, or on the school board were missing.
Bottom line is that everyone has one reason or the other to NOT show up in Jamah Masjid after Maghrib on every Sunday. For them, "dancing with the stars", or "NFL games", or "Chatting with friends", or "Indian Dramas", or Allah knows what else is more important than learn the meaning of Quran that took 23 years to come down with blood and sweat of our beloved Prophet (PBUH), and lives of the honorable sahaba (RA). I am not referring to people who have valid excuses, of course.
Unless we have an excuse, missing Tafsir of Quran amounts to intentional ignorance of Allah's words. If one is part of "Jamat" and don't participate in Tafsir of Quran, I am not sure what other benefit of Masjid are they inviting people to.
To people, who think that they are following Islam, and walk away after the announcement is made for Tafsir after Maghrib, I don't buy their claim.
To people who come for cricket, and spent 2 hours running after a ball, but don't seem to find time for Tafsir of Quran, I hope the skills in cricket will save them on the day of judgement.
To people who are sitting at home, and not coming for Tafsir, it does not convince me that "they worship none but allah" because Allah's words are being explained, and they are not there, which amounts to worship when convenient, and not if it is on Sunday evening.
Brothers and Sisters, seeking knowledge of Deen (religion) is not optional, but is our duty. On top of that, it is one thing to not come on Maghrib on Sunday, but it is another to walk out of the masjid as Tafsir starts. Do you have another means of learning about the meaning of the Quran? Do you find it boring to know what is in this book that has been protected by young kids with their lives?
Wallah! if my beloved Prophet (PBUH) was alive today, he would have cried at Muslims walking out after Maghrib, and not staying to listen to the meaning behind the verse read in Salat.
This is the cause of difficulty on our nation, and nothing else. Not the economy or insincere leaders, or Non-Muslims. If we make an intention, and try our best to learn our deen, I promise you that our lives will improve 10 fold, and the world will start respecting our religion, and we don't have to shave our beards to blend in, but they will grow beard to blend in with us. This is no joke!
At the root of this is two reasons, which no one talks about.
- Difference of opinion with the person teaching
- Prefer being a Muslim, but not religious
First reason is very hard to resolve, because everyone has created "Madhahib" (religions) within "Madhab" (Islam), and they identify themselves as Hanafi, Maliki, Hanbili, Shafii, Tablighi, Deobandi, Barelvi, and whatever they can find to disagree upon, they have splitted the religion. No one identify themselves as Muslim anymore. I have read many books on the lives of sahaba, and yet to find a single evidence of these divisions, although Ibn Masood and Ibn Abbas disagreed on many opinions.
Second reason is very serious, because this is very clear attitude among Muslims nowadays. We are Muslims, but not religious. For love of God, I can never undertand this term "religious". Either you are a muslim or not. If you are a muslim, you are religous, because Islam is a religion. Now, if you are atheist, I understand the term.
A person could be non-practicing Muslim, which is similar to saying that I am a lawyer but don't practice. It is kind of funny because one has to go through alot of study to become a lawyer, and it is insane to become a lawyer and work in 7-Eleven afterwards.
In my opinion, a person who thinks he/she is a muslim, but doesn't practice is either not convinced that Islam is the best way to live life, or is convinced that it is out of date, or simply not convinced that there will be retribution. For example, would anyone looking at the Police car, intentionally break the red light. On the contrary, sight of cops brings this sense of community and moral in us that we will use two hands on steering to show the cop that we are not be pulled over.
When was the last time we corrected our lives thinking there are angels writting every deed, and we will be held responsible for it. This is called taqwa with Allah. It makes us better than other creations, not the best car, or clothes, or the best profession.
If you have not understood Quran completely, please come to Tafsir of Quran, and sit under calm, and soothing environment. You may even socialize afterwards, and find it very refreshing to hear the words of Allah.
If you beleive that Quran has nothing to teach you, please avoid the tafsir program as much as you can. I will not be there on next sunday, but I pray to Allah that the Masjid will be full as it was on 27th of Ramadan to receive some fake blessings that our Rasool (PBUH) didn't know about, because he didn't had the "dua on 27th Ramadan".
Of course, tafsir has no benefit, if we don't follow it. We have to trust Allah when he tells us that Islam is good for us, and not fall into the trap that practicing Islam will harm our image. Practicing Islam is the only way, and everything else leads to a loss.
The Prophet also said: "Knowledge from which no benefit is derived is like a treasure out of which nothing is spent in the cause of God." - Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 108
JazakAllah Khairin
AbuArman
A struggling muslim
All praise due to Allah, the Creator, the Sustainer.
"And say: `My Rubb! Increase me in knowledge.'' (20:114)
"It is only those who have knowledge among His slaves that fear Allah.'' (35:28)
Mu`awiyah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah said, "When Allah wishes good for someone, He bestows upon him the understanding of Deen.''
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The seeking of knowledge is obligatory for every Muslim." - Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 74
As I walk in late to the Tafsir class on Sunday, I saw all the people who were sitting listening, and there was something a miss. See, after some salat, there will be a person who stands up and announce that there will be a small talk on deen (religion)afterwards, and, the whole Jamat that is focused on bringing people to the Masjid, and, in some cases, take people to far masajid, was missing. [There was one from that Jamat there but that was unusual].
Then, there are some brothers who come for cricket at Asar, they were missing. Also, there are some who are huffaz, and lead salat in some cases were missing.
Then, there are some brothers who come to Maghrib on Sunday were missing.
Then, Arab brothers who come to salat regularly were missing.
Then, there are brothers who come for almost every fardh salat were missing.
Then, there are brothers who are leading the community, or on the school board were missing.
Bottom line is that everyone has one reason or the other to NOT show up in Jamah Masjid after Maghrib on every Sunday. For them, "dancing with the stars", or "NFL games", or "Chatting with friends", or "Indian Dramas", or Allah knows what else is more important than learn the meaning of Quran that took 23 years to come down with blood and sweat of our beloved Prophet (PBUH), and lives of the honorable sahaba (RA). I am not referring to people who have valid excuses, of course.
Unless we have an excuse, missing Tafsir of Quran amounts to intentional ignorance of Allah's words. If one is part of "Jamat" and don't participate in Tafsir of Quran, I am not sure what other benefit of Masjid are they inviting people to.
To people, who think that they are following Islam, and walk away after the announcement is made for Tafsir after Maghrib, I don't buy their claim.
To people who come for cricket, and spent 2 hours running after a ball, but don't seem to find time for Tafsir of Quran, I hope the skills in cricket will save them on the day of judgement.
To people who are sitting at home, and not coming for Tafsir, it does not convince me that "they worship none but allah" because Allah's words are being explained, and they are not there, which amounts to worship when convenient, and not if it is on Sunday evening.
Brothers and Sisters, seeking knowledge of Deen (religion) is not optional, but is our duty. On top of that, it is one thing to not come on Maghrib on Sunday, but it is another to walk out of the masjid as Tafsir starts. Do you have another means of learning about the meaning of the Quran? Do you find it boring to know what is in this book that has been protected by young kids with their lives?
Wallah! if my beloved Prophet (PBUH) was alive today, he would have cried at Muslims walking out after Maghrib, and not staying to listen to the meaning behind the verse read in Salat.
This is the cause of difficulty on our nation, and nothing else. Not the economy or insincere leaders, or Non-Muslims. If we make an intention, and try our best to learn our deen, I promise you that our lives will improve 10 fold, and the world will start respecting our religion, and we don't have to shave our beards to blend in, but they will grow beard to blend in with us. This is no joke!
At the root of this is two reasons, which no one talks about.
- Difference of opinion with the person teaching
- Prefer being a Muslim, but not religious
First reason is very hard to resolve, because everyone has created "Madhahib" (religions) within "Madhab" (Islam), and they identify themselves as Hanafi, Maliki, Hanbili, Shafii, Tablighi, Deobandi, Barelvi, and whatever they can find to disagree upon, they have splitted the religion. No one identify themselves as Muslim anymore. I have read many books on the lives of sahaba, and yet to find a single evidence of these divisions, although Ibn Masood and Ibn Abbas disagreed on many opinions.
Second reason is very serious, because this is very clear attitude among Muslims nowadays. We are Muslims, but not religious. For love of God, I can never undertand this term "religious". Either you are a muslim or not. If you are a muslim, you are religous, because Islam is a religion. Now, if you are atheist, I understand the term.
A person could be non-practicing Muslim, which is similar to saying that I am a lawyer but don't practice. It is kind of funny because one has to go through alot of study to become a lawyer, and it is insane to become a lawyer and work in 7-Eleven afterwards.
In my opinion, a person who thinks he/she is a muslim, but doesn't practice is either not convinced that Islam is the best way to live life, or is convinced that it is out of date, or simply not convinced that there will be retribution. For example, would anyone looking at the Police car, intentionally break the red light. On the contrary, sight of cops brings this sense of community and moral in us that we will use two hands on steering to show the cop that we are not be pulled over.
When was the last time we corrected our lives thinking there are angels writting every deed, and we will be held responsible for it. This is called taqwa with Allah. It makes us better than other creations, not the best car, or clothes, or the best profession.
If you have not understood Quran completely, please come to Tafsir of Quran, and sit under calm, and soothing environment. You may even socialize afterwards, and find it very refreshing to hear the words of Allah.
If you beleive that Quran has nothing to teach you, please avoid the tafsir program as much as you can. I will not be there on next sunday, but I pray to Allah that the Masjid will be full as it was on 27th of Ramadan to receive some fake blessings that our Rasool (PBUH) didn't know about, because he didn't had the "dua on 27th Ramadan".
Of course, tafsir has no benefit, if we don't follow it. We have to trust Allah when he tells us that Islam is good for us, and not fall into the trap that practicing Islam will harm our image. Practicing Islam is the only way, and everything else leads to a loss.
The Prophet also said: "Knowledge from which no benefit is derived is like a treasure out of which nothing is spent in the cause of God." - Al-Tirmidhi, Hadith 108
JazakAllah Khairin
AbuArman
A struggling muslim
Sunday, October 24, 2010
How to cleanse our heart?
In the Name of Allah,
All praise is due to Allah, the Creator, the Sustainer.
The Prophet has said: “When a believer sins, a black dot appears in his heart, and then when he repents, his heart is cleansed (of the black spot). And when he sins more, the spot enlarges, till it covers the entire heart. Hence, this is the stain that Allah has mentioned in the Qur’an: ‘By no means! But on their hearts is the stain of the (ill) that they do!’ (Qur’an, 83:14)’” (Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal)
Someone once told me that it is better to stop sinning than do a good deed. I believe it to be true. If we are not performing alot of good deeds, we may still enter Jannah. All is required that we perform the duties (Faraidh), and avoid Major Sins.
Only chance to get guidance from Allah is to have a clean heart, and Major Sins blackens the heart very fast. So, if we can avoid Major sins, we have a very good chance of turning it around. Otherwise the blackness will keep us "bored" from the guidance.
Following is a pretty good list of Major Sins, which we can stop doing. It may not be in the order of severity, but we should work on all of them.
Some of the major sins or kaba’ir are as follows:
1. Associating partners with Allah (Shirk)
2. Committing murder (25:68)
3. Performing Sorcery (2:102)
4. Not performing the Prayers (19:59)
5. Withholding the Zakah (3:180)
6. Breaking the fast of Ramadan or not fasting in that month without a valid excuse.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Islam is built upon five pillars: testifying that there is no true god except Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, performing the prayers, paying the Zakah, making the pilgrimage to the house (Hajj), and fasting the month of Ramadan.” (Sahih al-Jami # 2837)
7. Not performing the pilgrimage when one has the ability to do so.
8. Disobeying one’s parents (17:23)
9. Severing ties of kinship. (47:22)
10. Committing adultery or fornication (17:30)
11. Committing sodomy
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Allah will not look at a person (with pleasure) who commits sodomy with a man or a woman.” (Sahih al-Jami # 7678)
12. Taking or paying interest (2:275)
13. Devouring the wealth of orphans (4:10)
14. Forging statements concerning Allah or forging Hadith (39:60)
15. Fleeing from the battle (8:16)
16. Wrongdoing, deception or oppression on the part of the ruler (42:42)
17. Being arrogant, boastful and vain (16:23)
18. Giving false testimony (25:72)
19. Drinking alcoholic beverages (5:90)
20. Gambling (5:90)
21. Slandering innocent women (24:23)
22. Misappropriating something from the booty (3:161)
23. Stealing (5:38)
24. Committing highway robbery (5:33)
25. Making false oath
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “If someone is ordered to take an oath and he takes a false oath in order to take possession of property of a Muslim, then he will incur Allah's wrath when he meets Him.” (Sahih al-Jami # 6083)
26. Committing oppression
27. Levying illegal taxes
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Do you know who the bankrupt is? The bankrupt form my nation is the one who appears on the Day of Resurrection having performed the prayers, fasted and paid the Zakah, but had also abused that person, slandered that person, wrongfully taken the wealth of that person and spilled the blood of that person. These people will take from his good deeds. If his good deeds are thereby exhausted, he will be given their sins and then he will be thrown into the hell-fire.” (Sahih al-Jami #87)
28. Consuming forbidden wealth or taking it by any means (2:188)
29. Committing suicide (4:29)
30. Being a perpetual liar (3:61)
31. Ruling by laws other than the laws of Islam (5:44)
32. Engaging in bribery (2:188)
33. Women appearing like men and vice-versa.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Allah's curse is upon women who appear like men and upon men who appear like women.” (Sahih al-Jami # 4976)
34. Being a “dayyouth.”
Dayyouth is the one who approves the indecency of his womenfolk and who is void of jealousy or a pimp who facilitates indecency between two people. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Allah has forbidden the Paradise to three people: the alcoholic, the runaway slave, and the one who is complacent in the face of the evil deeds that his family is performing.” (Sahih al-Jami # 3047)
35. Marrying for the purpose of making a woman allowable for another.
36. Not keeping clean from the remains of urine.
Ibn `Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) passed by a grave and said, “These two are being punished and they are not punished for something hard. But it is a great sin. One of them did not keep himself clean form his urine and the other went around spreading tales.” (Sahih al-Jami # 2436)
37. Acting for show (107:4-6)
38. Acquiring knowledge only for worldly gain or concealing knowledge (2:160)
39. Breaching trusts (8:27)
40. Reminding people of one's kindness (2:27)
41. Denying predestination (54:49)
“If Allah were to punish the inhabitants of the heavens and earths, then He would punish and He would not be doing injustice to them. If He were to have mercy on them, His mercy would be greater than their actions. If a person had amount of gold equivalent to Mount Uhud or similar to Mount Uhud and spent it in the Path of Allah, (that spending) would not be accepted form him by Allah until he believes in the preordainment of good and evil. And until he knows that what afflicted him was not going to miss him and what missed him was not going to afflict him. If you were to die with any belief other than that, you would enter the Hellfire.” (Kitab al-Sunnah by Ibn Abu Asi # 245. Albani says that its chain is Sahih)
42. Eavesdropping on other’s private conversation. (49:12)
43. Spreading harmful tales (54:10)
44. Cursing others.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Abusing a Muslim is evil and fighting him is disbelief.” (Sahih al-Jami # 3598)
45. Not fulfilling one’s promises.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Whoever has a four characteristic is a complete hypocrite. Whoever posses any of these characteristics has the characteristics of hypocrisy until he gives it up; whenever he makes a promise, he breaks it up…” (Al-Bukhari)
46. Believing in what soothsayers & astrologers say.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Whoever goes to fortuneteller and asks him about something will not have his prayer accepted for forty nights.” (Sahih al-Jami # 5816)
47. A wife being rebellious to her husband (4:34)
48. Striking one's self, wailing, tearing one's clothing, pulling one's hair & similar deeds as a form of mourning.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “One who strikes his cheeks or tears his clothing and shouts in the manner of pre-Islamic culture is not one of us.” (Sahih al-Jami # 5713)
49. Being overbearing or taking advantage of the weak, slaves, wives or animals
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Allah will torture those who torture people in this world.” (Reported by Muslim)
50. Harming neighbors.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “A person whose neighbor is not safe from his mischief will not enter paradise.” (sahih al-Jami # 7002)
51. Harming and abusing Muslims (33:58)
52. Harming the slaves of Allah.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said that Allah said, “Whoever shows enmity to a slave of Mine (Allah's) I shall be at war with him.” (Sahih al-Jami # 1778)
53. Men wearing silk & gold.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Gold and silk have been permitted for the females of my nation and forbidden for its males.” (Sahih al-Jami # 209)
The Prophet (saw) also said, “Men who wears silk in this world will have no portion [of heavens] in the hereafter.” (Muslim)
54. Sacrificing animals for other than Allah.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “The one who sacrifices for other than Allah is cursed by Allah.” (Sahih al-Jami # 4988)
55. Claiming that somebody is one’s father while the claimant knows it is not true.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “One who claims that someone is his father and knows that it is not true will be forbidden of paradise.” (Sahih al-Jami # 5865)
56. Arguing or quarreling for show & not seeking the truth.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Whoever argues in support of something that is wrong and he knows it Allah will be angry with him until he stops.” (Sahih al-Jami # 6073)
57. Not measuring weights properly (83:1-3)
58. Thinking that one is safe from Allah’s planning (7:99)
59. Eating carrion, blood or pork meat (6:145)
60. Continually not performing the Friday prayers and congregational prayers without any valid excuse
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “If people don't stop abandoning the Friday Prayers Allah may seal their hearts and they will become headless.” (Reported by Muslim)
61. Harming others by manipulation one’s bequests (4: 12)
62. Being deceitful or deceptive (35:43)
63. Spying on the Muslims & pointing out their secrets (68:11)
64. Abusing or reviling anyone of the Companions of the Prophet (saw)
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Do not revile my companions for, by the One in whose hands is my soul, if you were to spend in charity a mountain of gold similar to mount Uhud it would not be equal to a handful or a half a handful (or what they have done).” (Sahih al-Jami # 7187)
JazakAllah Khairin
AbuArman
A Struggling Muslim
Referances
http://www.islamonline.net/servlet/Satellite?pagename=IslamOnline-English-Ask_Scholar/FatwaE/FatwaE&cid=1119503543812#ixzz13H4WdKja
All praise is due to Allah, the Creator, the Sustainer.
The Prophet has said: “When a believer sins, a black dot appears in his heart, and then when he repents, his heart is cleansed (of the black spot). And when he sins more, the spot enlarges, till it covers the entire heart. Hence, this is the stain that Allah has mentioned in the Qur’an: ‘By no means! But on their hearts is the stain of the (ill) that they do!’ (Qur’an, 83:14)’” (Imam Ahmad bin Hanbal)
Someone once told me that it is better to stop sinning than do a good deed. I believe it to be true. If we are not performing alot of good deeds, we may still enter Jannah. All is required that we perform the duties (Faraidh), and avoid Major Sins.
Only chance to get guidance from Allah is to have a clean heart, and Major Sins blackens the heart very fast. So, if we can avoid Major sins, we have a very good chance of turning it around. Otherwise the blackness will keep us "bored" from the guidance.
Following is a pretty good list of Major Sins, which we can stop doing. It may not be in the order of severity, but we should work on all of them.
Some of the major sins or kaba’ir are as follows:
1. Associating partners with Allah (Shirk)
2. Committing murder (25:68)
3. Performing Sorcery (2:102)
4. Not performing the Prayers (19:59)
5. Withholding the Zakah (3:180)
6. Breaking the fast of Ramadan or not fasting in that month without a valid excuse.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Islam is built upon five pillars: testifying that there is no true god except Allah and that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah, performing the prayers, paying the Zakah, making the pilgrimage to the house (Hajj), and fasting the month of Ramadan.” (Sahih al-Jami # 2837)
7. Not performing the pilgrimage when one has the ability to do so.
8. Disobeying one’s parents (17:23)
9. Severing ties of kinship. (47:22)
10. Committing adultery or fornication (17:30)
11. Committing sodomy
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Allah will not look at a person (with pleasure) who commits sodomy with a man or a woman.” (Sahih al-Jami # 7678)
12. Taking or paying interest (2:275)
13. Devouring the wealth of orphans (4:10)
14. Forging statements concerning Allah or forging Hadith (39:60)
15. Fleeing from the battle (8:16)
16. Wrongdoing, deception or oppression on the part of the ruler (42:42)
17. Being arrogant, boastful and vain (16:23)
18. Giving false testimony (25:72)
19. Drinking alcoholic beverages (5:90)
20. Gambling (5:90)
21. Slandering innocent women (24:23)
22. Misappropriating something from the booty (3:161)
23. Stealing (5:38)
24. Committing highway robbery (5:33)
25. Making false oath
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “If someone is ordered to take an oath and he takes a false oath in order to take possession of property of a Muslim, then he will incur Allah's wrath when he meets Him.” (Sahih al-Jami # 6083)
26. Committing oppression
27. Levying illegal taxes
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Do you know who the bankrupt is? The bankrupt form my nation is the one who appears on the Day of Resurrection having performed the prayers, fasted and paid the Zakah, but had also abused that person, slandered that person, wrongfully taken the wealth of that person and spilled the blood of that person. These people will take from his good deeds. If his good deeds are thereby exhausted, he will be given their sins and then he will be thrown into the hell-fire.” (Sahih al-Jami #87)
28. Consuming forbidden wealth or taking it by any means (2:188)
29. Committing suicide (4:29)
30. Being a perpetual liar (3:61)
31. Ruling by laws other than the laws of Islam (5:44)
32. Engaging in bribery (2:188)
33. Women appearing like men and vice-versa.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Allah's curse is upon women who appear like men and upon men who appear like women.” (Sahih al-Jami # 4976)
34. Being a “dayyouth.”
Dayyouth is the one who approves the indecency of his womenfolk and who is void of jealousy or a pimp who facilitates indecency between two people. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Allah has forbidden the Paradise to three people: the alcoholic, the runaway slave, and the one who is complacent in the face of the evil deeds that his family is performing.” (Sahih al-Jami # 3047)
35. Marrying for the purpose of making a woman allowable for another.
36. Not keeping clean from the remains of urine.
Ibn `Abbas (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) passed by a grave and said, “These two are being punished and they are not punished for something hard. But it is a great sin. One of them did not keep himself clean form his urine and the other went around spreading tales.” (Sahih al-Jami # 2436)
37. Acting for show (107:4-6)
38. Acquiring knowledge only for worldly gain or concealing knowledge (2:160)
39. Breaching trusts (8:27)
40. Reminding people of one's kindness (2:27)
41. Denying predestination (54:49)
“If Allah were to punish the inhabitants of the heavens and earths, then He would punish and He would not be doing injustice to them. If He were to have mercy on them, His mercy would be greater than their actions. If a person had amount of gold equivalent to Mount Uhud or similar to Mount Uhud and spent it in the Path of Allah, (that spending) would not be accepted form him by Allah until he believes in the preordainment of good and evil. And until he knows that what afflicted him was not going to miss him and what missed him was not going to afflict him. If you were to die with any belief other than that, you would enter the Hellfire.” (Kitab al-Sunnah by Ibn Abu Asi # 245. Albani says that its chain is Sahih)
42. Eavesdropping on other’s private conversation. (49:12)
43. Spreading harmful tales (54:10)
44. Cursing others.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Abusing a Muslim is evil and fighting him is disbelief.” (Sahih al-Jami # 3598)
45. Not fulfilling one’s promises.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Whoever has a four characteristic is a complete hypocrite. Whoever posses any of these characteristics has the characteristics of hypocrisy until he gives it up; whenever he makes a promise, he breaks it up…” (Al-Bukhari)
46. Believing in what soothsayers & astrologers say.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Whoever goes to fortuneteller and asks him about something will not have his prayer accepted for forty nights.” (Sahih al-Jami # 5816)
47. A wife being rebellious to her husband (4:34)
48. Striking one's self, wailing, tearing one's clothing, pulling one's hair & similar deeds as a form of mourning.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “One who strikes his cheeks or tears his clothing and shouts in the manner of pre-Islamic culture is not one of us.” (Sahih al-Jami # 5713)
49. Being overbearing or taking advantage of the weak, slaves, wives or animals
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Allah will torture those who torture people in this world.” (Reported by Muslim)
50. Harming neighbors.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “A person whose neighbor is not safe from his mischief will not enter paradise.” (sahih al-Jami # 7002)
51. Harming and abusing Muslims (33:58)
52. Harming the slaves of Allah.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said that Allah said, “Whoever shows enmity to a slave of Mine (Allah's) I shall be at war with him.” (Sahih al-Jami # 1778)
53. Men wearing silk & gold.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Gold and silk have been permitted for the females of my nation and forbidden for its males.” (Sahih al-Jami # 209)
The Prophet (saw) also said, “Men who wears silk in this world will have no portion [of heavens] in the hereafter.” (Muslim)
54. Sacrificing animals for other than Allah.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “The one who sacrifices for other than Allah is cursed by Allah.” (Sahih al-Jami # 4988)
55. Claiming that somebody is one’s father while the claimant knows it is not true.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “One who claims that someone is his father and knows that it is not true will be forbidden of paradise.” (Sahih al-Jami # 5865)
56. Arguing or quarreling for show & not seeking the truth.
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Whoever argues in support of something that is wrong and he knows it Allah will be angry with him until he stops.” (Sahih al-Jami # 6073)
57. Not measuring weights properly (83:1-3)
58. Thinking that one is safe from Allah’s planning (7:99)
59. Eating carrion, blood or pork meat (6:145)
60. Continually not performing the Friday prayers and congregational prayers without any valid excuse
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “If people don't stop abandoning the Friday Prayers Allah may seal their hearts and they will become headless.” (Reported by Muslim)
61. Harming others by manipulation one’s bequests (4: 12)
62. Being deceitful or deceptive (35:43)
63. Spying on the Muslims & pointing out their secrets (68:11)
64. Abusing or reviling anyone of the Companions of the Prophet (saw)
The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Do not revile my companions for, by the One in whose hands is my soul, if you were to spend in charity a mountain of gold similar to mount Uhud it would not be equal to a handful or a half a handful (or what they have done).” (Sahih al-Jami # 7187)
JazakAllah Khairin
AbuArman
A Struggling Muslim
Referances
http://www.islamonline.net/servlet/Satellite?pagename=IslamOnline-English-Ask_Scholar/FatwaE/FatwaE&cid=1119503543812#ixzz13H4WdKja
Wednesday, October 20, 2010
How to become practicing Muslim?
In the Name of Allah,
All praise is due to Allah, the Creator, the Sustainer.
" By Al-'Asr (the time).Verily! Man is in loss, Except those who believe (in Islâmic Monotheism) and do righteous good deeds, and recommend one another to the truth (i.e. order one another to perform all kinds of good deeds (Al-Ma'rûf)which Allâh has ordained, and abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds (Al-Munkar)which Allâh has forbidden), and recommend one another to patience (for the sufferings, harms, and injuries which one may encounter in Allâh's Cause during preaching His religion of Islâmic Monotheism or Jihâd, etc.)." (Quran 103)
"At-Tabarani recorded from `Abdullah bin Hisn Abi Madinah that he said, "Whenever two men from the Companions of the Messenger of Allah used to meet, they would not part until one of them had recited Surat Al-`Asr in its entirety to the other, and one of them had given the greetings of peace to the other.'' Ash-Shafi`i said, "If the people were to ponder on this Surah, it would be sufficient for them.''" (Tafsir ibn Kathir)
Above Surah is the best scale to measure ourselves if we are on the right path. Allah makes the most perfect logical argument, I have ever seen made. Allah created humans, and he understands that only using our language is not enough to convey the message, but logic has to be used to convince a human. So, Allah has used negation to begin his most important messages, and this Surah is one of them.
Humans are logical beings, and Quran is a guidance for Humans, so Allah uses language that we can understand. Instead of listing all the rules, he starts by negating every action as being useless. So, this short surah can cover everything a Human will do. If he were to list all the good we can do, it would have span a big book, because everything Allah has created is halal for us, except a very small number. Yet, we stick to that small number of haram, and call Islam as a narrow religion. "Why can't I shave my beard?" "Why can't I listen to music?" "Why can't I go out without covering my hairs and neck?"
Allah is saying that goal for creating humans is to come back to Jannah, and most of them are heading towards Hell fire, except some who change direction. Then, he lists four things "Believing in Allah", "Follow Allah's command", "Advice others regarding Islam", and "Advice others regarding restraint".
There is a logical "And" between all four, which means all 4 have to be in a human for him/her to qualify to enter Jannah, not one, two or three. That is it. This is the blue print to Jannah. Not 27th Ramadan, not Witr after Isha, not tasbeeh, not Reading Quran in Arabic, etc. Those are extra credit, and we shouldn't go for extra credit before completing the homework. By negating everything else, he Allah is presenting the four heavist things that will be enough to take us to Jannah.
So, how do we go about doing these 4 things? I have thought alot about this, and struggled since 2006.
Here is what works for me. Whenever I find something in my life in violation of order of Allah or his Rasool (PBUH), I make a plan on how to eliminate it. It is almost impossible to stop cold turkey, because you will go back or end in a state where haram and halal is mixed, which is the worst.
For example, I found out that listening to Musical instrument was haram. Now, I loved music like other Pakistanis. Junoon was my favourite band, and Amitabh's songs were my life. I tried stop listening to it altogether, but then I will felt restless. While I am driving, I needed something to occupy myself. I added one CD of 30th para with other Music, and I would switch between the haram and halal. It certainly kept the peace between the two fighting sides within me for a while.
Slowly, I added another CD of Islamic songs wihtout musical instruments, but still listen to other music to keep feeding the Nafs, so it doesn't rebel. Basically, I was weining my Nafs off from the addiction of haram Music. I certainly felt that one step I took, "help" came running 10 steps.
At that stage, I decided to remove the CDs from my car, but I still listen to Music in other forms. Musical instruments are certainly food for the soul, but they are haram food. I beleive that a person can never come close to Allah, if they always have musical tunes playing in the sub concious. As my mind start loosing grip from Musical instruments, I start seeing things clearly. Suddenly, an ayah of Quran or hadith would affect my heart, whereas before it sound really boring.
In essence, I trained myself to stop, and the restlessness went away.
See, I found it boring to pray Salat, but found it really entertaining to listen to Amitabh's and Junoon Music. I used to not mind chatting my sister in laws and other ladies in the family dinners. I used to call everyone with a beard "Maulana", which usually means "a person who takes religion too seriously, and need to lighten up". I tried my best to not look like Muslim, so people won't think about me differently...
Once I decided to practice Islam, it became really tough because my family was neck deep in unIslamic traditions. First reaction from my family was very severe. This is a story for another day.
At personal level, I found myself rebelling aginst my will. On several occassions, I
broke my oath and reverted to sin. It was very easy to just drop the restrains, and join the party, but the remembrance of death and grave kept me going.
Most difficult thing to fight is the peer pressure from your loved ones. They will mock you, or comment such as "No one is perfect" "Prophet was perfect, and we can't be like him" or "We don't have to go too deep" "we are already Muslim why do we need to do more". If one is able to fight that pressure, and stand the wind of resistence, they will be successful.
Another thing to remember is that the process of improving ones life never stops. If someone thinks that they have all the major sins undercontrolled, and praying 5 times salat, they have fallen in to the trap of Satan. If Umar (RA) can drag his face in the mud worrying if he has done enough before he passed away, who are we.
One thing that no one talks about is that, to start practicing Islam, the changes have to be made, and you will have to fight your nafs, who knows you inside out, because your nafs can play tricks where you slowly slip back into sin without knowing about it. Either your nafs can be in control, or you are. You can never share the control with your nafs. You have to starve it, you have to trick it, you have to win. So, what am I talking about?
Hadith - Sahih Muslim 6757, Narrated Abdullah ibn Mas'ud, similar narration 6759 by 'Aisha, r.a.
Allah's Apostle said: There is none amongst you with whom is not an attache from amongst the jinn (devil). They (the Companions) said: Allah's Apostle with you too? Thereupon he said: Yes, but Allah helps me against him and so I am safe from his hand and he does not command me but for good.
So, the best way to take control of your actions is to target the biggest sin in you life, and take a couple at a time, and work on them. Divide and conquer is the key. Every six months, you should be able to look back and say, "Yes, I got this sin under control" which doesn't means that you will not accidently do it, it just means that intentionally you will not allow yourself.
In conclusion, never think that you are clear, even if you are the Imam of the Masjid, because Satan is an intelligent being, and he also goes for the bigger price. Always have one sin in the target, and keep at it. Although new year doesn't mean anything from the earth's orbit perspective, but use the new year if you like, and setup some goals, and beat that nafs, before it takes all of us to Hell fire.
JazakAllah Khairin
A struggling Muslim
AbuArman (Adnan Jumani)
All praise is due to Allah, the Creator, the Sustainer.
" By Al-'Asr (the time).Verily! Man is in loss, Except those who believe (in Islâmic Monotheism) and do righteous good deeds, and recommend one another to the truth (i.e. order one another to perform all kinds of good deeds (Al-Ma'rûf)which Allâh has ordained, and abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds (Al-Munkar)which Allâh has forbidden), and recommend one another to patience (for the sufferings, harms, and injuries which one may encounter in Allâh's Cause during preaching His religion of Islâmic Monotheism or Jihâd, etc.)." (Quran 103)
"At-Tabarani recorded from `Abdullah bin Hisn Abi Madinah that he said, "Whenever two men from the Companions of the Messenger of Allah used to meet, they would not part until one of them had recited Surat Al-`Asr in its entirety to the other, and one of them had given the greetings of peace to the other.'' Ash-Shafi`i said, "If the people were to ponder on this Surah, it would be sufficient for them.''" (Tafsir ibn Kathir)
Above Surah is the best scale to measure ourselves if we are on the right path. Allah makes the most perfect logical argument, I have ever seen made. Allah created humans, and he understands that only using our language is not enough to convey the message, but logic has to be used to convince a human. So, Allah has used negation to begin his most important messages, and this Surah is one of them.
Humans are logical beings, and Quran is a guidance for Humans, so Allah uses language that we can understand. Instead of listing all the rules, he starts by negating every action as being useless. So, this short surah can cover everything a Human will do. If he were to list all the good we can do, it would have span a big book, because everything Allah has created is halal for us, except a very small number. Yet, we stick to that small number of haram, and call Islam as a narrow religion. "Why can't I shave my beard?" "Why can't I listen to music?" "Why can't I go out without covering my hairs and neck?"
Allah is saying that goal for creating humans is to come back to Jannah, and most of them are heading towards Hell fire, except some who change direction. Then, he lists four things "Believing in Allah", "Follow Allah's command", "Advice others regarding Islam", and "Advice others regarding restraint".
There is a logical "And" between all four, which means all 4 have to be in a human for him/her to qualify to enter Jannah, not one, two or three. That is it. This is the blue print to Jannah. Not 27th Ramadan, not Witr after Isha, not tasbeeh, not Reading Quran in Arabic, etc. Those are extra credit, and we shouldn't go for extra credit before completing the homework. By negating everything else, he Allah is presenting the four heavist things that will be enough to take us to Jannah.
So, how do we go about doing these 4 things? I have thought alot about this, and struggled since 2006.
Here is what works for me. Whenever I find something in my life in violation of order of Allah or his Rasool (PBUH), I make a plan on how to eliminate it. It is almost impossible to stop cold turkey, because you will go back or end in a state where haram and halal is mixed, which is the worst.
For example, I found out that listening to Musical instrument was haram. Now, I loved music like other Pakistanis. Junoon was my favourite band, and Amitabh's songs were my life. I tried stop listening to it altogether, but then I will felt restless. While I am driving, I needed something to occupy myself. I added one CD of 30th para with other Music, and I would switch between the haram and halal. It certainly kept the peace between the two fighting sides within me for a while.
Slowly, I added another CD of Islamic songs wihtout musical instruments, but still listen to other music to keep feeding the Nafs, so it doesn't rebel. Basically, I was weining my Nafs off from the addiction of haram Music. I certainly felt that one step I took, "help" came running 10 steps.
At that stage, I decided to remove the CDs from my car, but I still listen to Music in other forms. Musical instruments are certainly food for the soul, but they are haram food. I beleive that a person can never come close to Allah, if they always have musical tunes playing in the sub concious. As my mind start loosing grip from Musical instruments, I start seeing things clearly. Suddenly, an ayah of Quran or hadith would affect my heart, whereas before it sound really boring.
In essence, I trained myself to stop, and the restlessness went away.
See, I found it boring to pray Salat, but found it really entertaining to listen to Amitabh's and Junoon Music. I used to not mind chatting my sister in laws and other ladies in the family dinners. I used to call everyone with a beard "Maulana", which usually means "a person who takes religion too seriously, and need to lighten up". I tried my best to not look like Muslim, so people won't think about me differently...
Once I decided to practice Islam, it became really tough because my family was neck deep in unIslamic traditions. First reaction from my family was very severe. This is a story for another day.
At personal level, I found myself rebelling aginst my will. On several occassions, I
broke my oath and reverted to sin. It was very easy to just drop the restrains, and join the party, but the remembrance of death and grave kept me going.
Most difficult thing to fight is the peer pressure from your loved ones. They will mock you, or comment such as "No one is perfect" "Prophet was perfect, and we can't be like him" or "We don't have to go too deep" "we are already Muslim why do we need to do more". If one is able to fight that pressure, and stand the wind of resistence, they will be successful.
Another thing to remember is that the process of improving ones life never stops. If someone thinks that they have all the major sins undercontrolled, and praying 5 times salat, they have fallen in to the trap of Satan. If Umar (RA) can drag his face in the mud worrying if he has done enough before he passed away, who are we.
One thing that no one talks about is that, to start practicing Islam, the changes have to be made, and you will have to fight your nafs, who knows you inside out, because your nafs can play tricks where you slowly slip back into sin without knowing about it. Either your nafs can be in control, or you are. You can never share the control with your nafs. You have to starve it, you have to trick it, you have to win. So, what am I talking about?
Hadith - Sahih Muslim 6757, Narrated Abdullah ibn Mas'ud, similar narration 6759 by 'Aisha, r.a.
Allah's Apostle said: There is none amongst you with whom is not an attache from amongst the jinn (devil). They (the Companions) said: Allah's Apostle with you too? Thereupon he said: Yes, but Allah helps me against him and so I am safe from his hand and he does not command me but for good.
So, the best way to take control of your actions is to target the biggest sin in you life, and take a couple at a time, and work on them. Divide and conquer is the key. Every six months, you should be able to look back and say, "Yes, I got this sin under control" which doesn't means that you will not accidently do it, it just means that intentionally you will not allow yourself.
In conclusion, never think that you are clear, even if you are the Imam of the Masjid, because Satan is an intelligent being, and he also goes for the bigger price. Always have one sin in the target, and keep at it. Although new year doesn't mean anything from the earth's orbit perspective, but use the new year if you like, and setup some goals, and beat that nafs, before it takes all of us to Hell fire.
JazakAllah Khairin
A struggling Muslim
AbuArman (Adnan Jumani)
Wednesday, October 6, 2010
Can we handle the truth?
In the Name of Allah,
All praise is due to Allah, the creator the sustainer.
I received an email from a very active brother, who is very sincere in his intentions, but he mentioned that he was using Jadoo TV, and he advised me to get it as well. I politely replied to him that Jadoo TV is haram as it provides a way for people to steal programming from channels that don't allow distribution. Surprisingly, he defended the use of this illegal service.
He claimed to follow the truth, but when I explained the reason why it is Haram for Muslims to use stolen services, he could not handle it. If we claim to teach truth, we should be able to handle the truth, even if it is unpleasant. Reminds me of the famous line from a movie "You can't handle the truth!"
Then, I mentioned this to another young brother, and he was surprised to hear that. Then, he mentioned to another brother in the Masjid, and he got a strong response to this, in defense of Jadoo TV. So, he called me and asked me if I researched and have proof of what I say. Only Allah knows if it is true, but following is what I told him.
Jadoo TV does not provide channels, but provide a box that amplifies a video stream from internet to the TV. It is completely legal. Then, they provide a user forum http://myjadoo.jadootv.com which allows anyone to upload a live stream, which is also legal, because there are many channels that stream for free on the internet.
Now, most of the channels that are being hosted there are ilelgally streamed. For example, Geo TV, Fox News, Sky News are a few to name. These channels (Muslim and Non-Muslim) do not allow to stream their programming over the internet let alone distribute to homes. People who are buying these boxes are not buying for the legal channels, but for those premium channels that are available through satelite with a cost.
I called them at 619-523-6688 and asked them how can they allow illegal streaming. Their answer was very clever. They said that we don't control the forum, so if users post ilelgal content, it is up to them. They also have the following on their legal disclaimer page. https://myjadoo.jadootv.com/dmca.php
They know that the reason people are joining in is to watch premium channels for free, but they hide behind a disclaimer. Also, they make it impossible to report it by refusing to accept reports unless you own that channel. I am not able to confirm this, but Geo TV is already taking legal actions against them.
Improtant thing to note is that they may or may not be protected by their lawyers, but we are commiting haram act, rergardless, if we watch these channels knowingly that we are not paying the monthly subscription.
Let us prove this calim now that to use this service is haram from three different Sharia point of views.
1) It is illegal to stream, distribute, and watch these channels in this fashion, according to law of the land, and Islam prohibit us from breaking the law of the land.
Sayyiduna Abd Allah ibn Umar (Allah be pleased with him) narrates that the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) said: “It is necessary upon a Muslim to listen to and obey the ruler, as long as one is not ordered to carry out a sin. If he is commanded to commit a sin, then there is no adherence and obedience.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, no. 2796 & Sunan Tirmidhi)
2) These programming are property of those channels, and if we watch them without their permission, we are utilizing their property without their consent. Think of breaking into your neighbours car, and take it for a spin. Distrusting someone's property is prohibited in Islam.
Narrated Abu Huraira:
The Prophet said, "When an adulterer commits illegal sexual intercourse, then he is not a believer at the time, he is doing it, and when a drinker of an alcoholic liquor drinks it, then he is not a believer at the time of drinking it, and when a thief steals, then he is not a believer at the time of stealing, and when a robber robs, and the people look at him, then he is not a believer at the time of doing robbery. (Bukhari Volume 3, Book 43, Number 655)
3) By people switching to this service versus purchasing the subscription from DishNetwork, they are hurting them financially. As you know, hurting another human (except for three allowable reasons) in Sharia is prohibited.
، أيها الناس إن دماءكم وأموالكم عليكم حرام إلى أن تلقوا ربكم كحرمة يومكم هذا ، وكحرمة شهركم هذا ، وإنكم ستلقون ربكم فيسألكم عن أعمالكم وقد بلغت ، فمن كان عنده أمانة فليؤدها إلى من ائتمنه عليها ، وإن كل ربا موضوع ولكن لكم رءوس أموالكم لا تظلمون ولا تظلمون
“O People! just as you regard this month, this day, this city as Sacred, so regard the life and property of every one as a sacred trust. Return the goods entrusted to you to their rightful owners. Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you. Remember that you will indeed meet your LORD, and that he will indeed reckon your deeds." (Last Sermon Prophet (PBUH) Mutwatir hadith)
When Prophet (PBUH) was leaving this earth, he had a final chance to teach us the most important thing we needed to know. There were thousands of Muslims standing listening to his words. He knew that whatever he said in that occassion will echo in the world till the last day. So, the above is his opening statement. He chose to give us the ultimate order from Allah, which is not to pray salat, or fast, or zikr of Allah, or fight the kuffar.
He ordered us to respect the life and property of every Human (muslim or kuffar) as we respect Kaba. He ordered us to hurt no Human (Muslim or Kafir) (physically or ecomomically.
He used the arabic word "An'Nas" which means mankind, not "Muslimeen" or "Mu'mineen". So, don't be decieved by Satan in thinking he was talking about only Muslims.
After we have established that it is haram to use this service, it is always our choice to use haram, and give haram to our kids and spouses, but defending it to be halal is whole another level of sin.
Personally, I have done this also by watching cricket match on the internet, and I ask Allah's forgiveness for that, and I am trying to avoid this. Someone close to me does this on a daily basis from youtube, and last night I explained this to them as well.
We all make mistakes, no one should ask anyone to be perfect, but we should accept the truth when it is presented to us, and not defend the falsehood, because that doubles down on our sins.
I ask you brothers and sisters. What would you do if you see someone disrespecting Kaba. Would you stop him or her? Would you look the other way? Would you give him a chance to change his or her mind? No, ofcourse not.
So, why is that when we see someone stealing someones property or hurting someone, physically, verbally, or ecomomically, we are not stopping them with our hands, or our tongues, or atleast accept that it is a sin?
There are people among us, Muslims, who are killing innocents humans, and fellow Muslims, and we read it in the nespaper, and move on to our daily routine. Of course there are Non-Muslims who are killing Muslims as well, but they don't have Islam or the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), as we do. If we return tit for tat, who would establish Islam, who would follow this order from Prophet (PBUH)?
Then, there are among us, who hurt people by deceiving humans into buying faulty products. They will not explain in their stores, the defects in the products. They should know better.
Then, there are among us who buy illegal cable boxes to avoid paying monthly subscriptions. And, on top of that they will consider it halal. It is stealing to stream content of channels that don't allow streaming. Jadoo TV is facilitating streaming of Geo TV, Fox News, CNN, etc which are the property of someone, and we are not suppose to use them without their permissions. It hurts them financially. It creates a society of thieves in our homes.
Then, there are among us who would follow the people from airport and rob them on gun point. This is so common in Pakistan, that I don't even need to explain it.
Then, there are among us who use their connections to get jobs for their relatives, and hurt more qualified candidates. May Allah destroy this trend.
Then, there are among us who use their political influence to get goverment lands or contracts, and hurt the process where others rights are opressed.
Then, there are among us who cut people off on the road. Is this the character of the one we follow? Do we only follow him in long beard and traditional clothing?
Then, there are among us who park their car blocking the path without any regards for other traffic. In the Taraweeh? let alone somewhere else. Always think twice, if our action will hurt someone.
Wallah! The list is too long. The list is too long. The list is too long.
In the Name of my Lord, these may be small for us, but they accumulate over time, and Allah has promised to account for everything as small as atom weight.
Let us promise ourselves to stop taking life or property of another Human, and stop hurting other innocent humans (Muslims or NonMuslims). Ameen!
JazakAllah Khairin
A struggling Muslim
AbuArman
All praise is due to Allah, the creator the sustainer.
I received an email from a very active brother, who is very sincere in his intentions, but he mentioned that he was using Jadoo TV, and he advised me to get it as well. I politely replied to him that Jadoo TV is haram as it provides a way for people to steal programming from channels that don't allow distribution. Surprisingly, he defended the use of this illegal service.
He claimed to follow the truth, but when I explained the reason why it is Haram for Muslims to use stolen services, he could not handle it. If we claim to teach truth, we should be able to handle the truth, even if it is unpleasant. Reminds me of the famous line from a movie "You can't handle the truth!"
Then, I mentioned this to another young brother, and he was surprised to hear that. Then, he mentioned to another brother in the Masjid, and he got a strong response to this, in defense of Jadoo TV. So, he called me and asked me if I researched and have proof of what I say. Only Allah knows if it is true, but following is what I told him.
Jadoo TV does not provide channels, but provide a box that amplifies a video stream from internet to the TV. It is completely legal. Then, they provide a user forum http://myjadoo.jadootv.com which allows anyone to upload a live stream, which is also legal, because there are many channels that stream for free on the internet.
Now, most of the channels that are being hosted there are ilelgally streamed. For example, Geo TV, Fox News, Sky News are a few to name. These channels (Muslim and Non-Muslim) do not allow to stream their programming over the internet let alone distribute to homes. People who are buying these boxes are not buying for the legal channels, but for those premium channels that are available through satelite with a cost.
I called them at 619-523-6688 and asked them how can they allow illegal streaming. Their answer was very clever. They said that we don't control the forum, so if users post ilelgal content, it is up to them. They also have the following on their legal disclaimer page. https://myjadoo.jadootv.com/dmca.php
They know that the reason people are joining in is to watch premium channels for free, but they hide behind a disclaimer. Also, they make it impossible to report it by refusing to accept reports unless you own that channel. I am not able to confirm this, but Geo TV is already taking legal actions against them.
Improtant thing to note is that they may or may not be protected by their lawyers, but we are commiting haram act, rergardless, if we watch these channels knowingly that we are not paying the monthly subscription.
Let us prove this calim now that to use this service is haram from three different Sharia point of views.
1) It is illegal to stream, distribute, and watch these channels in this fashion, according to law of the land, and Islam prohibit us from breaking the law of the land.
Sayyiduna Abd Allah ibn Umar (Allah be pleased with him) narrates that the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace) said: “It is necessary upon a Muslim to listen to and obey the ruler, as long as one is not ordered to carry out a sin. If he is commanded to commit a sin, then there is no adherence and obedience.” (Sahih al-Bukhari, no. 2796 & Sunan Tirmidhi)
2) These programming are property of those channels, and if we watch them without their permission, we are utilizing their property without their consent. Think of breaking into your neighbours car, and take it for a spin. Distrusting someone's property is prohibited in Islam.
Narrated Abu Huraira:
The Prophet said, "When an adulterer commits illegal sexual intercourse, then he is not a believer at the time, he is doing it, and when a drinker of an alcoholic liquor drinks it, then he is not a believer at the time of drinking it, and when a thief steals, then he is not a believer at the time of stealing, and when a robber robs, and the people look at him, then he is not a believer at the time of doing robbery. (Bukhari Volume 3, Book 43, Number 655)
3) By people switching to this service versus purchasing the subscription from DishNetwork, they are hurting them financially. As you know, hurting another human (except for three allowable reasons) in Sharia is prohibited.
، أيها الناس إن دماءكم وأموالكم عليكم حرام إلى أن تلقوا ربكم كحرمة يومكم هذا ، وكحرمة شهركم هذا ، وإنكم ستلقون ربكم فيسألكم عن أعمالكم وقد بلغت ، فمن كان عنده أمانة فليؤدها إلى من ائتمنه عليها ، وإن كل ربا موضوع ولكن لكم رءوس أموالكم لا تظلمون ولا تظلمون
“O People! just as you regard this month, this day, this city as Sacred, so regard the life and property of every one as a sacred trust. Return the goods entrusted to you to their rightful owners. Hurt no one so that no one may hurt you. Remember that you will indeed meet your LORD, and that he will indeed reckon your deeds." (Last Sermon Prophet (PBUH) Mutwatir hadith)
When Prophet (PBUH) was leaving this earth, he had a final chance to teach us the most important thing we needed to know. There were thousands of Muslims standing listening to his words. He knew that whatever he said in that occassion will echo in the world till the last day. So, the above is his opening statement. He chose to give us the ultimate order from Allah, which is not to pray salat, or fast, or zikr of Allah, or fight the kuffar.
He ordered us to respect the life and property of every Human (muslim or kuffar) as we respect Kaba. He ordered us to hurt no Human (Muslim or Kafir) (physically or ecomomically.
He used the arabic word "An'Nas" which means mankind, not "Muslimeen" or "Mu'mineen". So, don't be decieved by Satan in thinking he was talking about only Muslims.
After we have established that it is haram to use this service, it is always our choice to use haram, and give haram to our kids and spouses, but defending it to be halal is whole another level of sin.
Personally, I have done this also by watching cricket match on the internet, and I ask Allah's forgiveness for that, and I am trying to avoid this. Someone close to me does this on a daily basis from youtube, and last night I explained this to them as well.
We all make mistakes, no one should ask anyone to be perfect, but we should accept the truth when it is presented to us, and not defend the falsehood, because that doubles down on our sins.
I ask you brothers and sisters. What would you do if you see someone disrespecting Kaba. Would you stop him or her? Would you look the other way? Would you give him a chance to change his or her mind? No, ofcourse not.
So, why is that when we see someone stealing someones property or hurting someone, physically, verbally, or ecomomically, we are not stopping them with our hands, or our tongues, or atleast accept that it is a sin?
There are people among us, Muslims, who are killing innocents humans, and fellow Muslims, and we read it in the nespaper, and move on to our daily routine. Of course there are Non-Muslims who are killing Muslims as well, but they don't have Islam or the teachings of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH), as we do. If we return tit for tat, who would establish Islam, who would follow this order from Prophet (PBUH)?
Then, there are among us, who hurt people by deceiving humans into buying faulty products. They will not explain in their stores, the defects in the products. They should know better.
Then, there are among us who buy illegal cable boxes to avoid paying monthly subscriptions. And, on top of that they will consider it halal. It is stealing to stream content of channels that don't allow streaming. Jadoo TV is facilitating streaming of Geo TV, Fox News, CNN, etc which are the property of someone, and we are not suppose to use them without their permissions. It hurts them financially. It creates a society of thieves in our homes.
Then, there are among us who would follow the people from airport and rob them on gun point. This is so common in Pakistan, that I don't even need to explain it.
Then, there are among us who use their connections to get jobs for their relatives, and hurt more qualified candidates. May Allah destroy this trend.
Then, there are among us who use their political influence to get goverment lands or contracts, and hurt the process where others rights are opressed.
Then, there are among us who cut people off on the road. Is this the character of the one we follow? Do we only follow him in long beard and traditional clothing?
Then, there are among us who park their car blocking the path without any regards for other traffic. In the Taraweeh? let alone somewhere else. Always think twice, if our action will hurt someone.
Wallah! The list is too long. The list is too long. The list is too long.
In the Name of my Lord, these may be small for us, but they accumulate over time, and Allah has promised to account for everything as small as atom weight.
Let us promise ourselves to stop taking life or property of another Human, and stop hurting other innocent humans (Muslims or NonMuslims). Ameen!
JazakAllah Khairin
A struggling Muslim
AbuArman
Friday, September 24, 2010
Why do I bother sending emails?
In the Name of Allah,
All praise due to Allah, the creator, the sustainer.
Last Friday, I ran into someone I have known for a long time, and I admire very much. He mentioned that another brother who we know mutually got one of my emails, and was not happy about the content. He also argued that may be we shouldn't confront someone if they follow the wrong path, as it may offend them. As long as they are Muslim, they should follow their faith, and we should follow our faith. I don't agree with this, because we are given a direct command to do the opposite.
If I offended someone, I expect a direct reply, so I can corrected my fault or explain. Regardless, I appologize to anyone whose feeling got hurt with something I sent, and offer to remove their name from my distribution list.
I would never want to hurt anyone's feeling, so if there is anyone on this email that would like to be removed, please reply with a small note, and I will be glad to remove them. Of course, I would never stop sharing what I learn, even if my life or my family's life is threatened. It is an order from Allah to us, and I intend to follow.
So, why do I bother sending emails?
Interestingly, I received a few other feedbacks, and I would like to share them too.
Last Friday, I received the following email from a young sister who got my emails forwarded, and got to know a wonderful site http://edars.com/ which has a treasure that Fort Knox will not contain.
"Asalaam o alikum,
I know that as you are reading this, you most be wondering who this is and to answer that, I am -------, -- years of age,daughter of ---, ---------@hotmail.com, i hope that rings some sort of a bell, you have been forwarding really healthy Islamic emails and links to her, and she has been forwarding it to me. Just one of that link sort of changed my life, Edars.com. Great insight to Islam, MashAllah, and actually, in a way, thanks to you, i now have the Islamic knowledge, i should have had a long time ago, and Alhumdolillah it continues to grow and influence my inner.
God bless you and your family.
Thanks,
---. "
As you can see that there is no equal to the benefit someone can receive from a small effort. May Allah bestow his favor on her by providing knowledge of Islam.
Then, day before I received call from my father from Pakistan, and he mentioned that his dear friend who I have been sending email greatly appreciated that.
Another email received agreeing with the view I presented with proofs about apostate.
"I concur 100%. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was sent as a mercy for all mankind and we have made a mockery of the glorious life which he lead and we should follow! May Allah accept your efforts!!"
Happiest news I received was one of the person I got to know has accepted Islam 4 months ago, and he really appreciates all the knowledge about Islam I have been forwarding, being a new Muslim. May Allah accept his Shahadah, and forgive all his previous sins.
Another relative of mine has been actively learning about Islam recently, and these emails have helped him sort out some things.
In short, I appologize for any strong opinions I injected in my emails, but mostly I have forwarded proves from Quran and Sunnah, so anyone can provide counter arguments easily. Please do not remind me that I am not a scholar, as I already know that. I don't beleive in the Jewish model of people depending on scholars to interpret the meaning of the Holly Scriptures, as it leads to personal opinions becoming Sharia law.
We should consult with scholars, if matters are not clear, but where clear commands from Allah, and Prophet (PBUH) are available, we should follow them.
"Allah the Most High said: Let there be among you a community who enjoin good and forbid evil; it is they that shall be successful," [3:104]
"Those of the Israelites who were unbelievers have already been cursed on the tongue of David and Jesus, son of Mary, for they were disobedient, and transgressed. They did not forbid one another from committing the evil that they wrought. What they used to do was foul indeed. [5:79]"
Please "pay it forward".
- Stop someone from doing gheebat.
- Stop someone from listening Musical instrument
- Stop someone from paying interest
- Stop someone from staring at our sisters
- Stop someone from breaking promise
- Share your knowledge. Don't hoard all the treasure of the knowledge in your heart. I know some in our local Masjid who have loads of knowledge, but they will not share it with us. Just come for salat and walk out quitely. They should find the young ones, and pass on the knowledge. Think, what if Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) just kept quite about Islam?
JazakAllah Khairin
AbuArman
A struggling Muslim
All praise due to Allah, the creator, the sustainer.
Last Friday, I ran into someone I have known for a long time, and I admire very much. He mentioned that another brother who we know mutually got one of my emails, and was not happy about the content. He also argued that may be we shouldn't confront someone if they follow the wrong path, as it may offend them. As long as they are Muslim, they should follow their faith, and we should follow our faith. I don't agree with this, because we are given a direct command to do the opposite.
If I offended someone, I expect a direct reply, so I can corrected my fault or explain. Regardless, I appologize to anyone whose feeling got hurt with something I sent, and offer to remove their name from my distribution list.
I would never want to hurt anyone's feeling, so if there is anyone on this email that would like to be removed, please reply with a small note, and I will be glad to remove them. Of course, I would never stop sharing what I learn, even if my life or my family's life is threatened. It is an order from Allah to us, and I intend to follow.
So, why do I bother sending emails?
Interestingly, I received a few other feedbacks, and I would like to share them too.
Last Friday, I received the following email from a young sister who got my emails forwarded, and got to know a wonderful site http://edars.com/ which has a treasure that Fort Knox will not contain.
"Asalaam o alikum,
I know that as you are reading this, you most be wondering who this is and to answer that, I am -------, -- years of age,daughter of ---, ---------@hotmail.com, i hope that rings some sort of a bell, you have been forwarding really healthy Islamic emails and links to her, and she has been forwarding it to me. Just one of that link sort of changed my life, Edars.com. Great insight to Islam, MashAllah, and actually, in a way, thanks to you, i now have the Islamic knowledge, i should have had a long time ago, and Alhumdolillah it continues to grow and influence my inner.
God bless you and your family.
Thanks,
---. "
As you can see that there is no equal to the benefit someone can receive from a small effort. May Allah bestow his favor on her by providing knowledge of Islam.
Then, day before I received call from my father from Pakistan, and he mentioned that his dear friend who I have been sending email greatly appreciated that.
Another email received agreeing with the view I presented with proofs about apostate.
"I concur 100%. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was sent as a mercy for all mankind and we have made a mockery of the glorious life which he lead and we should follow! May Allah accept your efforts!!"
Happiest news I received was one of the person I got to know has accepted Islam 4 months ago, and he really appreciates all the knowledge about Islam I have been forwarding, being a new Muslim. May Allah accept his Shahadah, and forgive all his previous sins.
Another relative of mine has been actively learning about Islam recently, and these emails have helped him sort out some things.
In short, I appologize for any strong opinions I injected in my emails, but mostly I have forwarded proves from Quran and Sunnah, so anyone can provide counter arguments easily. Please do not remind me that I am not a scholar, as I already know that. I don't beleive in the Jewish model of people depending on scholars to interpret the meaning of the Holly Scriptures, as it leads to personal opinions becoming Sharia law.
We should consult with scholars, if matters are not clear, but where clear commands from Allah, and Prophet (PBUH) are available, we should follow them.
"Allah the Most High said: Let there be among you a community who enjoin good and forbid evil; it is they that shall be successful," [3:104]
"Those of the Israelites who were unbelievers have already been cursed on the tongue of David and Jesus, son of Mary, for they were disobedient, and transgressed. They did not forbid one another from committing the evil that they wrought. What they used to do was foul indeed. [5:79]"
Please "pay it forward".
- Stop someone from doing gheebat.
- Stop someone from listening Musical instrument
- Stop someone from paying interest
- Stop someone from staring at our sisters
- Stop someone from breaking promise
- Share your knowledge. Don't hoard all the treasure of the knowledge in your heart. I know some in our local Masjid who have loads of knowledge, but they will not share it with us. Just come for salat and walk out quitely. They should find the young ones, and pass on the knowledge. Think, what if Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) just kept quite about Islam?
JazakAllah Khairin
AbuArman
A struggling Muslim
Sunday, September 19, 2010
Is there Wine in Jannah?
In the Name of Allah,
I received a question through text. One of my relative was asked by someone if there will be Wine in Jannah?
Simple Answer to that is yes. Wine will not taste foul like it does here. It will not affect us the same way. It will be a pleasunt drink and there will be no hangovers.
"(Here is) a Parable of the Garden which the righteous are promised: in it are rivers of water incorruptible; rivers of milk of which the taste never changes; rivers of wine, a joy to those who drink;" (Quran 47:15)
"it (the wine) has no bad effects, nor does it cause intoxication." (Quran37:47)
"From which (the wine) they will have no headache, nor will they be intoxicated." (Quran 56:19)
So, it is pretty clear that we will InshAllah get Wine in abundance, but it will be missing the downside of drinking wine in this world.
However, we can not drink Wine here, and if we do, we may not be able to drink it in afterlife.
Hadith - Muslim #4963, Narrated Abdullah ibn Umar
Allah's Messenger said: Every intoxicant is Khamr and every intoxicant is forbidden. He who drinks wine in this world and dies while he is addicted to it, not having repented, will not be given a drink in the Hereafter.
May this be the motivation for people to keep away from Intoxicating drinks.
JazakAllah
AbuArman
A struggling Muslim
I received a question through text. One of my relative was asked by someone if there will be Wine in Jannah?
Simple Answer to that is yes. Wine will not taste foul like it does here. It will not affect us the same way. It will be a pleasunt drink and there will be no hangovers.
"(Here is) a Parable of the Garden which the righteous are promised: in it are rivers of water incorruptible; rivers of milk of which the taste never changes; rivers of wine, a joy to those who drink;" (Quran 47:15)
"it (the wine) has no bad effects, nor does it cause intoxication." (Quran37:47)
"From which (the wine) they will have no headache, nor will they be intoxicated." (Quran 56:19)
So, it is pretty clear that we will InshAllah get Wine in abundance, but it will be missing the downside of drinking wine in this world.
However, we can not drink Wine here, and if we do, we may not be able to drink it in afterlife.
Hadith - Muslim #4963, Narrated Abdullah ibn Umar
Allah's Messenger said: Every intoxicant is Khamr and every intoxicant is forbidden. He who drinks wine in this world and dies while he is addicted to it, not having repented, will not be given a drink in the Hereafter.
May this be the motivation for people to keep away from Intoxicating drinks.
JazakAllah
AbuArman
A struggling Muslim
Tuesday, September 14, 2010
Ramadan Fever is Over !?!
In the Name of Allah,
All praise due to Allah, in whose hands is my life. I worship none but Allah, the creator, the sustainer.
Last night, I went for Maghrib Salat in the Masjid. Winds were calm, and weather was pleasant. As I drove into the Masjid road, something struck me as different. I couldn't figure out for a few minutes what it was. Finally it came to me. Today was 3 days after Eid. There were only 3 cars. Two were from the Imams, and one other probably the brother's who was untieing the wires from Iftar tent.
I almost broke down in tears, and fear came upto me. See, I got tied up with family activities since the Asr prayer on Eid day until that time, and I was feeling restless to go to masjid. Now, I felt guilty for not trying harder to visit masjid last 3 days.
As I slowly walk into the Masjid, the reality of Ramadan fever struck me. So, all the glory, and sincerity was halted in those Muslim's life? Where are they now? Are they praying Maghrib at home, or are they watching the Monday Night Football? Is this the new religion, Pakistani/Indian community has created?
Then, I start thinking about all those brothers I met during Ramadan. Wearing clean and bright religious traditional clothes walking up and down the Masjid waiting for iftar or Taraveeh. Some of them, I start becoming fond of them. They shook my hand, and ask questions, as I sat with them. I felt like the times of Prophet (PBUH) where people came in droves with utmost sincerity to Masajid.
Now, I wonder where are they. Middle aged brother who stopped shaving and I could see the white hairs in the growing beard, motivated me to pray salat with more attention, being jealous of his devoution. Aged person whose son brought him to masjid during Iftar time with dificulty that impressed me to start respecting my father more. Brother who wore the most elegant clothes for Salat, and made me shy of standing beside him. Brothers with long beards, floating around with Quran under their arm shaking people's hand.
I remember the group of brothers, who I love from bottom of my heart, would fight over the inches of the first row during Taraveeh. I see them now sitting in the last row for Fard salat. Brothers I know who forced out young man with short beard because their hairs aren't growing fast enough to lead Salat. Behind which Imam they pray their Maghrib Salat today? Taraveeh goers who would frown upon me when I had to go home after 8 rakat to attend a family affair. What is the count of their rakats today?
One night, I was walking out of the Masjid, one brother came upto me, and ask me a question. Now the question was very simple, and I have asked in different cases. He asked, "Salam, Do you know when is Taraveeh tonight?" I said right after I'sha. His got puzzeled. He asked with force this time. "What time?". I replied 9:30 PM for I'sha, and then 9:45 PM for Taraveeh. He said slowly but I could hear him. "Oh ok! 9:45 PM". I knew he was planning on skipping I'sha.
Now, I was born in Pakistan so I used to see this shift in people's life there. In fact, one of my relative has a hotel in Dubai, so I asked him when he was leaving. He replied, "I need to get back before Ramadan, so we can start renovation". I asked why in Ramadan. He explained to me that Dubai prohibits Alcohol and Dance parties during Ramadan, so the business is dead, which makes the perfect time for renovation. It gave the hadith about Satan being chained another meaning altogether. I start imagining Satans walking around in the streets of Dubai, looking for customers. I felt bad for those poor souls in Dubai who couldn't find Alcohol and entertainment during the blessed month. I bet Iblis celebrated Eid like no Human would. Dubai is open for business!
I don't say these things to look down upon them, as I myself missed 3 days of Salat in Masjid, but there has to be sincere love for Allah and Masjid. It is worst in Indian/Pakistani culture, because we have made them part of our culture.
I pray to Allah that I am able to see those brothers before next Ramadan, as I may not be alive until then. More importanly, May Allah allow us to attend Masjid regularly.
JazakAllah
A struggling Muslim
AbuArman
All praise due to Allah, in whose hands is my life. I worship none but Allah, the creator, the sustainer.
Last night, I went for Maghrib Salat in the Masjid. Winds were calm, and weather was pleasant. As I drove into the Masjid road, something struck me as different. I couldn't figure out for a few minutes what it was. Finally it came to me. Today was 3 days after Eid. There were only 3 cars. Two were from the Imams, and one other probably the brother's who was untieing the wires from Iftar tent.
I almost broke down in tears, and fear came upto me. See, I got tied up with family activities since the Asr prayer on Eid day until that time, and I was feeling restless to go to masjid. Now, I felt guilty for not trying harder to visit masjid last 3 days.
As I slowly walk into the Masjid, the reality of Ramadan fever struck me. So, all the glory, and sincerity was halted in those Muslim's life? Where are they now? Are they praying Maghrib at home, or are they watching the Monday Night Football? Is this the new religion, Pakistani/Indian community has created?
Then, I start thinking about all those brothers I met during Ramadan. Wearing clean and bright religious traditional clothes walking up and down the Masjid waiting for iftar or Taraveeh. Some of them, I start becoming fond of them. They shook my hand, and ask questions, as I sat with them. I felt like the times of Prophet (PBUH) where people came in droves with utmost sincerity to Masajid.
Now, I wonder where are they. Middle aged brother who stopped shaving and I could see the white hairs in the growing beard, motivated me to pray salat with more attention, being jealous of his devoution. Aged person whose son brought him to masjid during Iftar time with dificulty that impressed me to start respecting my father more. Brother who wore the most elegant clothes for Salat, and made me shy of standing beside him. Brothers with long beards, floating around with Quran under their arm shaking people's hand.
I remember the group of brothers, who I love from bottom of my heart, would fight over the inches of the first row during Taraveeh. I see them now sitting in the last row for Fard salat. Brothers I know who forced out young man with short beard because their hairs aren't growing fast enough to lead Salat. Behind which Imam they pray their Maghrib Salat today? Taraveeh goers who would frown upon me when I had to go home after 8 rakat to attend a family affair. What is the count of their rakats today?
One night, I was walking out of the Masjid, one brother came upto me, and ask me a question. Now the question was very simple, and I have asked in different cases. He asked, "Salam, Do you know when is Taraveeh tonight?" I said right after I'sha. His got puzzeled. He asked with force this time. "What time?". I replied 9:30 PM for I'sha, and then 9:45 PM for Taraveeh. He said slowly but I could hear him. "Oh ok! 9:45 PM". I knew he was planning on skipping I'sha.
Now, I was born in Pakistan so I used to see this shift in people's life there. In fact, one of my relative has a hotel in Dubai, so I asked him when he was leaving. He replied, "I need to get back before Ramadan, so we can start renovation". I asked why in Ramadan. He explained to me that Dubai prohibits Alcohol and Dance parties during Ramadan, so the business is dead, which makes the perfect time for renovation. It gave the hadith about Satan being chained another meaning altogether. I start imagining Satans walking around in the streets of Dubai, looking for customers. I felt bad for those poor souls in Dubai who couldn't find Alcohol and entertainment during the blessed month. I bet Iblis celebrated Eid like no Human would. Dubai is open for business!
I don't say these things to look down upon them, as I myself missed 3 days of Salat in Masjid, but there has to be sincere love for Allah and Masjid. It is worst in Indian/Pakistani culture, because we have made them part of our culture.
I pray to Allah that I am able to see those brothers before next Ramadan, as I may not be alive until then. More importanly, May Allah allow us to attend Masjid regularly.
JazakAllah
A struggling Muslim
AbuArman
Thursday, September 9, 2010
How to celebrate Eid?
In the name of Allah,
"For every people (nation) there is a feast, and this is our feast (Eid). (Bukhari, Muslim)
Islam has removed the burden of celebrating anniversary, birthdays, etc. and simplified to celebrate two days of Eidain. Our religion, Islam, is so perfect that it provides celebration that does not require spending money, so poorest of the poorest can celebrate. All a person need is a clean piece of cloth, and a Muslim gathering nearby to perform the Eid Salat. Alhamdulilah!
I know that some of you are puzzled on what I just said. Eid being cheap and simple. It is true that we have made Eidain to be a very complicated and expensive affair. However, it is not meant to be such. I would like to share what to do and what NOT to do on Eid.
All men who cover their body, all women who cover their body and head, and all kids are required to attend Eid Salat, except menstruating women. Women who usually don't wear hijab are not required to come for Eid Salat. If someone is poor and can't afford to cover their body, we should try to provide for them. (Fardh)
Umm ‘Atiyyah (may Allaah be pleased with her) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) commanded us to bring them (women) out on (Eid) al-Fitr and (Eid) al-Adha, and to bring out adolescent girls, menstruating women and virgins, but the menstruating women were to stay away from the prayer, but were to witness goodness and the gathering of the Muslims. I said: “O Messenger of Allaah, what if one of us does not have a jilbaab?” He said: “Let her sister lend her a jilbab.” (Sahih Bukhari Book 8 #347)
No Salat should be performed immediately before or after Eid Salat. (Fardh)
The Prophet (sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) went out and offered a two Rak’aat prayer on the Day of Eid-ul-Fitr and did not offer any other prayer before or after it and at that time Bilal (radiallahu ‘anhu) was accompanying him. (Bukhari Book 15, Number 104)
No speeches before salat. Two rakat followed by a speech, preferably in a language of the land, so people can understand. (Fardh).
Ibn Abbass (ra) reported: " I participated in the Eid-ul-Fitr prayer with the Messenger of Allah (saw), Abu Bakr (ra), Umar (ra) and Uthman (ra), and all of them held Eid prayer before Khutbah, and then the Prophet Muhammad (saw) delivered the Khutbah (sermon)." ( Muslim Book 004, Number 1923)
Imam to preach to women directly after Khutbah. (Recommended)
‘Ata (radiallahu ‘anhu) said, “Jabir bin ‘Abdullah said, ‘The Prophet went out on the Day of Eid-ul-Fitr and offered the prayer before delivering the khutba. ‘Ata told me that during the early days of Ibn Az-Zubair, Ibn Abbas had sent a message to him telling him that the Adhan for the ‘Id Prayer was never pronounced (in the life time of Allah’s Messenger) and the khutbah used to be delivered after the prayer. ‘Ata told me that Ibn Abbas and Jabir bin ‘Abdullah had said there was no Adhan for the prayer of Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Aqha.’ ‘Ata said, “I heard Jabir bin ‘Abdullah saying, ‘The Prophet stood up and started with the prayer, and after it he delivered the khutbah. When the Prophet of Allah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) finished (the khutbah), he went to the women and preached to them, while he was leaning on Bilal’s hand. Bilal was spreading his garment and the ladies were putting alms in it.’” I said to Ata, “Do you think it incumbent upon an Imam to go to the women and preach to them after finishing the prayer and Khutba?” ‘Ata’ said, “No doubt it is incumbent on Imams to do so, and why should they not do so?” (Bukhari Book 15, Number 78)
Men should wear the best of the clothes they have. It doesn't have to be new. So, no need for wasting money on new clothes every year. Perfume is must. (Fardh)
Al-Hassan as-Sibt says: "The Messenger of Allah (Sallaho Alaihe Wassallam) ordered us to wear the best clothes we could find for the two 'ids and to apply the best perfume we could find and to sacrifice the best animal we could find." This is related by al-Hakim and in its chain is Ishaq ibn Barzakh whom al-'Azdi declares to be weak while Ibn Hibban says he is trustworthy.
Women, however, can not dress up attractively when they come for Eid salat, and they have to be covered. (Fardh)
Aisha (RA) reports that Allah's Apostle used to offer the Fajr prayer and some believing women covered with their veiling sheets used to attend the Fajr prayer with him and then they would return to their homes unrecognized (Bukhari Book 8, Number 368).
Women should not use perfume when coming for Eid. (Fardh)
Zainub (RA), the wife of Abdullah bin Masood (RA), reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "If any woman attends the Masjid, she should not use any perfume" (Muslim Book 004, Number 0893)
Women should not adorned themselves with makeup, jewelery, cloths etc. (Fardh)
It is reported that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) was in the Masjid when a woman from the people of Muzaina who had adorned herself came into the Masjid. Upon this Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “O People, prevent your women from wearing attractive garments and walking proudly in the Masjid since the people of Bani Israeel were cursed because of this very action of their women (Ibn Majah)
We should try to avoid contacts with Non-Mahram men or women. This is a general rule that does not change for Eid. Physical contact like shaking hands is haram, and unnecessary conversation should be discouraged. (Recommended)
Malik related to me from Muhammad ibn al-Munkadir that Umayma bint Ruqayqa said, "I went to the Messenger of Allah with the women who took an oath of allegiance with him in Islam. They said, 'Messenger of Allah! We take a pledge with you not to associate anything with Allah, not to steal, not to commit adultery, not to kill our children, nor to produce any lie that we have devised between our hands and feet, and not to disobey you in what is known.' The Messenger of Allah said, 'In what you can do and are able.' "
Umayma continued, "They said, 'Allah and His Messenger are more merciful to us than ourselves. Come, let us give our hands to you, Messenger of Allah!' The Messenger of Allah said, 'I do not shake hands with women. My word to a hundred women is like my word to one woman.' "(Muwatta Book 55, Number 55.1.2)
Eat dates before Salat (Suggested)
Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) never proceeded (for the prayer) on the Day of Eid-ul-Fitr unless he had eaten some dates. Anas (radiallahu ‘anhu) also narrated: The Prophet (sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) used to eat odd number of dates. (Bukhari 2.73)
Return from a different path. No need to go crazy looking for a complete different path, just change as much as you can. (Suggested)
On the Day of Eid the Prophet (sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) used to return (after offering the Eid prayer) through a way different from that by which he went. (Bukhari Book 15, Number 102)
JazakAllah Khair
A struggling Muslim
Abu Arman
"For every people (nation) there is a feast, and this is our feast (Eid). (Bukhari, Muslim)
Islam has removed the burden of celebrating anniversary, birthdays, etc. and simplified to celebrate two days of Eidain. Our religion, Islam, is so perfect that it provides celebration that does not require spending money, so poorest of the poorest can celebrate. All a person need is a clean piece of cloth, and a Muslim gathering nearby to perform the Eid Salat. Alhamdulilah!
I know that some of you are puzzled on what I just said. Eid being cheap and simple. It is true that we have made Eidain to be a very complicated and expensive affair. However, it is not meant to be such. I would like to share what to do and what NOT to do on Eid.
All men who cover their body, all women who cover their body and head, and all kids are required to attend Eid Salat, except menstruating women. Women who usually don't wear hijab are not required to come for Eid Salat. If someone is poor and can't afford to cover their body, we should try to provide for them. (Fardh)
Umm ‘Atiyyah (may Allaah be pleased with her) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) commanded us to bring them (women) out on (Eid) al-Fitr and (Eid) al-Adha, and to bring out adolescent girls, menstruating women and virgins, but the menstruating women were to stay away from the prayer, but were to witness goodness and the gathering of the Muslims. I said: “O Messenger of Allaah, what if one of us does not have a jilbaab?” He said: “Let her sister lend her a jilbab.” (Sahih Bukhari Book 8 #347)
No Salat should be performed immediately before or after Eid Salat. (Fardh)
The Prophet (sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) went out and offered a two Rak’aat prayer on the Day of Eid-ul-Fitr and did not offer any other prayer before or after it and at that time Bilal (radiallahu ‘anhu) was accompanying him. (Bukhari Book 15, Number 104)
No speeches before salat. Two rakat followed by a speech, preferably in a language of the land, so people can understand. (Fardh).
Ibn Abbass (ra) reported: " I participated in the Eid-ul-Fitr prayer with the Messenger of Allah (saw), Abu Bakr (ra), Umar (ra) and Uthman (ra), and all of them held Eid prayer before Khutbah, and then the Prophet Muhammad (saw) delivered the Khutbah (sermon)." ( Muslim Book 004, Number 1923)
Imam to preach to women directly after Khutbah. (Recommended)
‘Ata (radiallahu ‘anhu) said, “Jabir bin ‘Abdullah said, ‘The Prophet went out on the Day of Eid-ul-Fitr and offered the prayer before delivering the khutba. ‘Ata told me that during the early days of Ibn Az-Zubair, Ibn Abbas had sent a message to him telling him that the Adhan for the ‘Id Prayer was never pronounced (in the life time of Allah’s Messenger) and the khutbah used to be delivered after the prayer. ‘Ata told me that Ibn Abbas and Jabir bin ‘Abdullah had said there was no Adhan for the prayer of Eid-ul-Fitr and Eid-ul-Aqha.’ ‘Ata said, “I heard Jabir bin ‘Abdullah saying, ‘The Prophet stood up and started with the prayer, and after it he delivered the khutbah. When the Prophet of Allah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) finished (the khutbah), he went to the women and preached to them, while he was leaning on Bilal’s hand. Bilal was spreading his garment and the ladies were putting alms in it.’” I said to Ata, “Do you think it incumbent upon an Imam to go to the women and preach to them after finishing the prayer and Khutba?” ‘Ata’ said, “No doubt it is incumbent on Imams to do so, and why should they not do so?” (Bukhari Book 15, Number 78)
Men should wear the best of the clothes they have. It doesn't have to be new. So, no need for wasting money on new clothes every year. Perfume is must. (Fardh)
Al-Hassan as-Sibt says: "The Messenger of Allah (Sallaho Alaihe Wassallam) ordered us to wear the best clothes we could find for the two 'ids and to apply the best perfume we could find and to sacrifice the best animal we could find." This is related by al-Hakim and in its chain is Ishaq ibn Barzakh whom al-'Azdi declares to be weak while Ibn Hibban says he is trustworthy.
Women, however, can not dress up attractively when they come for Eid salat, and they have to be covered. (Fardh)
Aisha (RA) reports that Allah's Apostle used to offer the Fajr prayer and some believing women covered with their veiling sheets used to attend the Fajr prayer with him and then they would return to their homes unrecognized (Bukhari Book 8, Number 368).
Women should not use perfume when coming for Eid. (Fardh)
Zainub (RA), the wife of Abdullah bin Masood (RA), reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: "If any woman attends the Masjid, she should not use any perfume" (Muslim Book 004, Number 0893)
Women should not adorned themselves with makeup, jewelery, cloths etc. (Fardh)
It is reported that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) was in the Masjid when a woman from the people of Muzaina who had adorned herself came into the Masjid. Upon this Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “O People, prevent your women from wearing attractive garments and walking proudly in the Masjid since the people of Bani Israeel were cursed because of this very action of their women (Ibn Majah)
We should try to avoid contacts with Non-Mahram men or women. This is a general rule that does not change for Eid. Physical contact like shaking hands is haram, and unnecessary conversation should be discouraged. (Recommended)
Malik related to me from Muhammad ibn al-Munkadir that Umayma bint Ruqayqa said, "I went to the Messenger of Allah with the women who took an oath of allegiance with him in Islam. They said, 'Messenger of Allah! We take a pledge with you not to associate anything with Allah, not to steal, not to commit adultery, not to kill our children, nor to produce any lie that we have devised between our hands and feet, and not to disobey you in what is known.' The Messenger of Allah said, 'In what you can do and are able.' "
Umayma continued, "They said, 'Allah and His Messenger are more merciful to us than ourselves. Come, let us give our hands to you, Messenger of Allah!' The Messenger of Allah said, 'I do not shake hands with women. My word to a hundred women is like my word to one woman.' "(Muwatta Book 55, Number 55.1.2)
Eat dates before Salat (Suggested)
Allah’s Messenger (sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) never proceeded (for the prayer) on the Day of Eid-ul-Fitr unless he had eaten some dates. Anas (radiallahu ‘anhu) also narrated: The Prophet (sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) used to eat odd number of dates. (Bukhari 2.73)
Return from a different path. No need to go crazy looking for a complete different path, just change as much as you can. (Suggested)
On the Day of Eid the Prophet (sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) used to return (after offering the Eid prayer) through a way different from that by which he went. (Bukhari Book 15, Number 102)
JazakAllah Khair
A struggling Muslim
Abu Arman
Friday, September 3, 2010
How to establish Islamic State in Modern Age?
In the Name of Allah, the most beneficent, the most merciful
At this moment in time, no country, city, or village exist that can be reffered to as an Islamic State. An Islamic State have to be based completely on Islamic Shariah. However, Islam does exist as a theology that may be practiced by Muslims with various level of devoution.
I had lengthy debates on this topic with Muslims, Non-Muslims, and Athiests alike, and almost everyone is convinced that it is not possible to establish an Islamic state in this age. I beg to differ with this conclusion.
Another opinion is that Muslim countries that calls themselves Islamic republic are Islamic states. That is not the case either. In fact, Al-Saudi Al-Arabiya is not an Islamic state either.
It violates the basic principle of Allah being the ruler. They have kept a royal family that is against all the teachings of Islam. If the Saudi Royal family gives up the rule and form the counsel to choose leader who is best fit to lead, we may see a shift.
So, What is an Islamic state?
An Islamic state is a community where the only ruler exist is Allah. Of course, you need someone to run the Administration of the state, who is called Custodian (Khalifah). His Job is to apply Allah's laws, with guidance from Sunnah of Prophet (PBUH).
Wouldn't this religous state be opressive on people?
No, certainly not. Allah's laws can never be opressive, as his Mercy superceeds his Anger. In practical terms, Islamic Laws are based upon the best balance of rights. It has been proven for centuries of Islamic state that existed with peace and prosperity between 623 AD to 1300 AD. People flocked to Islamic state for education, jobs, safety, conviniences.
Why do we need an Islamic State?
Absence of an Islamic State has slowed down the progress of human research, and increase in crimes, and increase in Women's opression, and decrease health among humans, ... Humans need to be at peace physically and spritually to think on critical problems, and find solutions.
How do we establish an Islamic State?
This is a very difficult question, since there will be many opinions on this. Some will say religous theocracy system need to be established. Some will say secular democracy with a spirit of Shariah would be needed. Both answers are wrong, and are extremes created by human mind.
Humans are not capable of establishing government or run the goverment on their own. They need Allah's guidance to acheive that. So, the Islamic State has to be based on Allah's guidance. However, it cannot be a State where people are not free to chose their religion, as it will violate Allah's command meaning "There is no compulsion in religion".
Fortunately, we have examples of Islamic states, and the best one is Medina under the best Human being ever lived (PBUH). Next best example is Khilafat of Umar (RA). In fact, his custodianship is the best fit for the modern Age. There is alot to be said about that.
Following Article defines the finer points about why Muslims are confused by two extremes, and reacting violently.
http://www.alislam.org/library/articles/Freedom-of-Expression-and-Islamic-Ideals-Sirajul-Haq-Khan.pdf
Religious minded with insufficient knowledge in Islam are frustrated with dominance of Non-Muslim influence, and have been reacting with violence. On the other hand, Secular minded with insufficient spirit of Islam are frustrated with violent reaction by religious extremists, and have been reacting with extreme view of their own to abandon Hijab, beard, Salat, etc and to embrace Alcohol, Music, Cultural slavery.
Both of these reactions are unIslamic, and only hurt further chance of establishing an Islamic state. What is required is a balance of Religous spirit with tolerance.
If one claims that the method used by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is outdated, then they have not understood the ayat where Allah has finalized the revelation. Allah has provided us with a set of rules that do not become obselete with time, and thinking that they do is a grave mistake.
The Plan
Islamic state is made up of communities who are completely submissive to Allah's will. These communities are made up of families who are completely submissive to Allah's will. These families are made up of individual who are completely submissive to Allah's will. As everything else in Islam, establishing an Islamic state is simple and in our hands.
We as individual need to testify that we have no master except Allah, and his will was communicated through Muhammad (PBUH). Then, we have to surrender our wills to go against this testification. We can't have an Imam as master (as a guide may be), can't have a political leader as master (as our servent may be), can't have social standing as master (as our character may be), can't have wealth as master (as a means may be), can't have pleasure as master (as a relief may be). To clarify, if any of the above contradict Allah's command, abandon it without hesitation.
Next, as a family member, we need to stop other family members from commiting Haram. We can't have an attitude of "minding our own business". Islam teaches us to be humble and Curteous, but be direct and true, which means if you walk in to a family gathering where backbiting is happening, immediately speak up politely, and ask them to stop. Also, we need to invite family members towards good actions. If it is time for Salat, ask them to have a jamat. If there is a confrontation between two memners, asked them to say "I seek refuge in Allah, from Shaytan and its influence", and try to solve it. This was the feature of Our Rasool(PBUH) which he was famous for.
Next, as a community memeber, we need to visit Masjid regularly. Once in the Masjid, don't spent time on lengthy discussion, as it is impossible to avoid backbitting and slander if we speak without purpose for more than 3 mintues. Look for oportunity to learn from others, and sometime teach others for what they don't know. One thing that is very common, an always will destroy communities, is to find like minded company. This creates factions. We have to make effort to communicate with people who don't agree with us. Never! I repeat never use the labels such as "Arab", "Desi" "Salafi", "Hanafi", "Brelwi", "Tablighi", even if no one is around. Our human psychology learn from what we say, and if we say it enough times, it records it as a perception.
Everyday we wake up, we should have 3 objectives.
- How can I oppress my will today in favour of Allah's will?
- How can I convince a family member towards Halal and away from Haram?
- How can I make a difference in the community?
This process can take upto approx 20 years.
At the end of 20 years, we should have at least 2 or 3 indivduals who can be chosen as a leader, and they will be so sincere that they will not want to become leader unless compelled. Once they become our leader, they will start the next stage of building a State of Islam. Non-Muslims will be already attracted towards Muslims for their beautiful character and perfect solutions, so this is an inside out revolution. Peaceful but strong.
If you have not noticed yet, this is exactly how our Prophet (PBUH) built a State. He was a human builder, and the humans he built were like Super Humans that Non-Muslims travelled far distances just to meet them.
How to begin?
Take an oath today to remove doubt, and become sincere towards learning and then implementing Islam in the life
Where to register?
Report 5 times a day to local Masjid.
Intention of these words are to spark thoughts and ideas, and not to present a strict opinion.
JazakAllah Khairin
A struggling Muslim
Adnan Jumani
At this moment in time, no country, city, or village exist that can be reffered to as an Islamic State. An Islamic State have to be based completely on Islamic Shariah. However, Islam does exist as a theology that may be practiced by Muslims with various level of devoution.
I had lengthy debates on this topic with Muslims, Non-Muslims, and Athiests alike, and almost everyone is convinced that it is not possible to establish an Islamic state in this age. I beg to differ with this conclusion.
Another opinion is that Muslim countries that calls themselves Islamic republic are Islamic states. That is not the case either. In fact, Al-Saudi Al-Arabiya is not an Islamic state either.
It violates the basic principle of Allah being the ruler. They have kept a royal family that is against all the teachings of Islam. If the Saudi Royal family gives up the rule and form the counsel to choose leader who is best fit to lead, we may see a shift.
So, What is an Islamic state?
An Islamic state is a community where the only ruler exist is Allah. Of course, you need someone to run the Administration of the state, who is called Custodian (Khalifah). His Job is to apply Allah's laws, with guidance from Sunnah of Prophet (PBUH).
Wouldn't this religous state be opressive on people?
No, certainly not. Allah's laws can never be opressive, as his Mercy superceeds his Anger. In practical terms, Islamic Laws are based upon the best balance of rights. It has been proven for centuries of Islamic state that existed with peace and prosperity between 623 AD to 1300 AD. People flocked to Islamic state for education, jobs, safety, conviniences.
Why do we need an Islamic State?
Absence of an Islamic State has slowed down the progress of human research, and increase in crimes, and increase in Women's opression, and decrease health among humans, ... Humans need to be at peace physically and spritually to think on critical problems, and find solutions.
How do we establish an Islamic State?
This is a very difficult question, since there will be many opinions on this. Some will say religous theocracy system need to be established. Some will say secular democracy with a spirit of Shariah would be needed. Both answers are wrong, and are extremes created by human mind.
Humans are not capable of establishing government or run the goverment on their own. They need Allah's guidance to acheive that. So, the Islamic State has to be based on Allah's guidance. However, it cannot be a State where people are not free to chose their religion, as it will violate Allah's command meaning "There is no compulsion in religion".
Fortunately, we have examples of Islamic states, and the best one is Medina under the best Human being ever lived (PBUH). Next best example is Khilafat of Umar (RA). In fact, his custodianship is the best fit for the modern Age. There is alot to be said about that.
Following Article defines the finer points about why Muslims are confused by two extremes, and reacting violently.
http://www.alislam.org/library/articles/Freedom-of-Expression-and-Islamic-Ideals-Sirajul-Haq-Khan.pdf
Religious minded with insufficient knowledge in Islam are frustrated with dominance of Non-Muslim influence, and have been reacting with violence. On the other hand, Secular minded with insufficient spirit of Islam are frustrated with violent reaction by religious extremists, and have been reacting with extreme view of their own to abandon Hijab, beard, Salat, etc and to embrace Alcohol, Music, Cultural slavery.
Both of these reactions are unIslamic, and only hurt further chance of establishing an Islamic state. What is required is a balance of Religous spirit with tolerance.
If one claims that the method used by Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is outdated, then they have not understood the ayat where Allah has finalized the revelation. Allah has provided us with a set of rules that do not become obselete with time, and thinking that they do is a grave mistake.
The Plan
Islamic state is made up of communities who are completely submissive to Allah's will. These communities are made up of families who are completely submissive to Allah's will. These families are made up of individual who are completely submissive to Allah's will. As everything else in Islam, establishing an Islamic state is simple and in our hands.
We as individual need to testify that we have no master except Allah, and his will was communicated through Muhammad (PBUH). Then, we have to surrender our wills to go against this testification. We can't have an Imam as master (as a guide may be), can't have a political leader as master (as our servent may be), can't have social standing as master (as our character may be), can't have wealth as master (as a means may be), can't have pleasure as master (as a relief may be). To clarify, if any of the above contradict Allah's command, abandon it without hesitation.
Next, as a family member, we need to stop other family members from commiting Haram. We can't have an attitude of "minding our own business". Islam teaches us to be humble and Curteous, but be direct and true, which means if you walk in to a family gathering where backbiting is happening, immediately speak up politely, and ask them to stop. Also, we need to invite family members towards good actions. If it is time for Salat, ask them to have a jamat. If there is a confrontation between two memners, asked them to say "I seek refuge in Allah, from Shaytan and its influence", and try to solve it. This was the feature of Our Rasool(PBUH) which he was famous for.
Next, as a community memeber, we need to visit Masjid regularly. Once in the Masjid, don't spent time on lengthy discussion, as it is impossible to avoid backbitting and slander if we speak without purpose for more than 3 mintues. Look for oportunity to learn from others, and sometime teach others for what they don't know. One thing that is very common, an always will destroy communities, is to find like minded company. This creates factions. We have to make effort to communicate with people who don't agree with us. Never! I repeat never use the labels such as "Arab", "Desi" "Salafi", "Hanafi", "Brelwi", "Tablighi", even if no one is around. Our human psychology learn from what we say, and if we say it enough times, it records it as a perception.
Everyday we wake up, we should have 3 objectives.
- How can I oppress my will today in favour of Allah's will?
- How can I convince a family member towards Halal and away from Haram?
- How can I make a difference in the community?
This process can take upto approx 20 years.
At the end of 20 years, we should have at least 2 or 3 indivduals who can be chosen as a leader, and they will be so sincere that they will not want to become leader unless compelled. Once they become our leader, they will start the next stage of building a State of Islam. Non-Muslims will be already attracted towards Muslims for their beautiful character and perfect solutions, so this is an inside out revolution. Peaceful but strong.
If you have not noticed yet, this is exactly how our Prophet (PBUH) built a State. He was a human builder, and the humans he built were like Super Humans that Non-Muslims travelled far distances just to meet them.
How to begin?
Take an oath today to remove doubt, and become sincere towards learning and then implementing Islam in the life
Where to register?
Report 5 times a day to local Masjid.
Intention of these words are to spark thoughts and ideas, and not to present a strict opinion.
JazakAllah Khairin
A struggling Muslim
Adnan Jumani
Sunday, August 29, 2010
If you are Muslim, Pay Zakat!
In the Name of Allah,
Recently, one brother approached me asking about Zakat, and the amount due. I would like to share some info that may guide people in the right direction.
Is Zakat Fard?
Yes. This should be an obvious thing that Zakat is obligatory, but in case, following verses of Quran and hadith prove the obligation.
"Who do not give the obligatory charity (Zakat), and with regard to the Hereafter, they are disbelievers." (Quran 41:7)
Volume 2, Book 24, Number 573:
Nisab is the exemption limit for the payment of Zakat. In other words, it is the amount which savings or capital or product must exceed in order for the Muslim owner to be obliged to give zakat. Nisab amount calculated based on 3 oz of pure Gold. This changes on a daily basis, so either use a calculator, or look it up for that day.
Who or where to pay Zakat?
To free slaves
Riqab is the term used to describe the group of people who are slaves. The Zakah money is used to free the slaves. For the Gharimeen-those who are in debt
Zakah money is used to pay off debts but these people are not living in luxury, they are living a normal life. For example, someone who has gone bankrupt because of job loss and is overloaded with debt. Fee Sabeelillah (for the Cause of Allah) Ibn as Sabeel
This refers to a traveler, for instance who has lost his wallet and has to get back to his home.
Recently, one brother approached me asking about Zakat, and the amount due. I would like to share some info that may guide people in the right direction.
Is Zakat Fard?
Yes. This should be an obvious thing that Zakat is obligatory, but in case, following verses of Quran and hadith prove the obligation.
"You shall observe the Contact Prayers (Salat) and give the obligatory charity (Zakat), and bow down with those who bow down." (Quran 2:43)
"Who do not give the obligatory charity (Zakat), and with regard to the Hereafter, they are disbelievers." (Quran 41:7)
Volume 2, Book 24, Number 573:
Volume 2, Book 24, Number 486:Narrated Abu Ma'bad,:
(the slave of Ibn Abbas) Allah's Apostle said to Muadh when he sent him to Yemen, "You will go to the people of the Scripture. So, when you reach there, invite them to testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah, and that Muhammad is His Apostle. And if they obey you in that, tell them that Allah has enjoined on them five prayers in each day and night. And if they obey you in that tell them that Allah has made it obligatory on them to pay the Zakat which will be taken from the rich among them and given to the poor among them. If they obey you in that, then avoid taking the best of their possessions, and be afraid of the curse of an oppressed person because there is no screen between his invocation and Allah."
Narrated Abu Huraira:
Allah's Apostle said, "Whoever is made wealthy by Allah and does not pay the Zakat of his wealth, then on the Day of Resurrection his wealth will be made like a bald-headed poisonous male snake with two black spots over the eyes. The snake will encircle his neck and bite his cheeks and say, 'I am your wealth, I am your treasure.' " Then the Prophet recited the holy verses:-- 'Let not those who withhold . . .' (to the end of the verse). (3.180).
When is Zakat Due ?
- 1. Passage of One Lunar Year:
- Zakat is obligatory after a time span of one lunar year passes with the money in the control of it's owner. Then the owner needs to pay 2.5% (or 1/40) of the money as Zakat. (A lunar year is approximately 355 days).
- 2. Deduction of Debts:
- The owner should deduct any amount of money he or she borrowed from others; then check if the rest reaches the necessary nisab, then pays Zakat for it.
How much to pay?
Volume 2, Book 24, Number 487:Narrated Abu Said:
Allah's Apostle (p.b.u.h) said, "No Zakat is due on property mounting to less than five Uqiyas (of silver), and no Zakat is due on less than five camels, and there is no Zakat on less than five Wasqs." (A Wasqs equals 60 Sa's) & (1 Sa=3 K gms App.)
Zakat is not just charity, but it is more like annual tax that Muslims have to pay on their properties that are not necessity (Cash, Jewelry, etc) excluding the debt owed for next 12 lunar months.
If we try to hide our savings from zakat, we are missing the point.
"And those who hoard up gold and silver, and do not spend them in the wayof God, announce unto them a painful punishment..." (Quran 9:34)
http://www.soundvision.com/Info/life/zakatcalc.asp
Each Muslim calculates his or her own Zakat individually. For most purposes this involves the payment each year of two and a half percent of one's capital. So, you just pick a date on lunar calendar and stick to it for the rest of your life. Preferably use Ramadan to get extra reward.
Any amount until "Nisab" is exempt from Zakat. So, we subtract that amount from the final total and pay Zakat on the rest.
Personal properties that are necessity are exempted from Zakat.
Volume 2, Book 24, Number 542:Narrated Abu Huraira:
Allah's Apostle said, "There is no Zakat either on a horse or a slave belonging to a Muslim"
Who or where to pay Zakat?
You can pay zakat to any relative who is not:
- Your parent, grandparent and ascending
- Your child, grandchild and descending
- Your spouse
As for all other relatives then it is not only permissible, but better to pay zakat to them if they are valid zakat-recipients.
- The poor (Fuqara)-this refers to someone who has no income or incapable of earning income
- The needy (Masakin)-this is someone who for instance, may have a job, a house and a car, but their income is below the minimum requirement.
- Employees of the Zakah.
- Sympathizers. These are those people who might enter or who have already entered Islam. Anyone we feel are good friends or ours (non-Muslim or new Muslims) we give them a gift from the Zakah money.
(To draw their hearts closer.) Some people are given because some of his peers
might embrace Islam, while others are given to collect alms from surrounding
areas, or to defend Muslim outposts. Allah knows best. (Ibn Kathir)
Riqab is the term used to describe the group of people who are slaves. The Zakah money is used to free the slaves.
Zakah money is used to pay off debts but these people are not living in luxury, they are living a normal life. For example, someone who has gone bankrupt because of job loss and is overloaded with debt.
This refers to a traveler, for instance who has lost his wallet and has to get back to his home.
If there is no close relative or neighbour in need of it, it is suggested to pay Zakat in your local masjid, since they will have a program to help people in the neighbourhood.
First two categories are top priorities, and Masjid can take care after that. Rest categories are for future generations, when wealth will be so common that you would need to search for a person to pay zakat. Please don't spent time looking for a traveler, as that is the last person for zakat.
Following masjid accepts Zakat and helps locals in Orlando.
And Allah knows best.
JazakAllah Khairin
Adnan Jumani
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