Real faith is having complete trust in God.
It is the belief in the wisdom which comes from the Unseen.
Such certainty can only be attained through the knowledge that emerges with divine help.
-Al-Hujwiri, "The Kashf al-Mahjub"
Thursday, October 09, 2008
Monday, October 06, 2008
The Formula for Paradise...
Worship the Merciful, feed the hungry, and spread peace.
You shall then enter Paradise in peace.
-Prophet Muhammad (SAW), as reported by Abd’Allah bin Amr
You shall then enter Paradise in peace.
-Prophet Muhammad (SAW), as reported by Abd’Allah bin Amr
Sunday, October 05, 2008
Fear and Hope: Two Pillars of Faith
Fear and hope are two pillars of faith.
By practicing either one of them a person will not fall into error,
because both fear and hope lead to union.
Those who fear devote themselves to God through fear of separation from Him,
and those who hope worship in hope of realizing the ultimate union.
-Al-Razi, "The Kashf al-Mahjub"
By practicing either one of them a person will not fall into error,
because both fear and hope lead to union.
Those who fear devote themselves to God through fear of separation from Him,
and those who hope worship in hope of realizing the ultimate union.
-Al-Razi, "The Kashf al-Mahjub"
Friday, September 26, 2008
Best Time to Make Du’a
Life is all about belief in the unseen, the unseen that is more powerful than all the riches of this world. “Oh Allah, the most Gracious, the most Merciful, grant me a peaceful life in this world and the other.” A du'a - the only means of pleading with our Lord. Du’a or supplication brings us closer to Allah, helps us remember Him and proves our faith in Him. It is important to ask through Du’a at all times of need in our life. There are certain times when du'a is more likely to be accepted by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) as mentioned by the Prophet (PBUH). These times are as follows:
1. The Last Third Of The Night
Abu Hurairah (Rali Allahu Anhu) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (SalAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘In the last third of every night our Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer) (Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala)) descends to the lowermost heaven and says; “Who is calling Me, so that I may answer him? Who is asking Me so that may I grant him? Who is seeking forgiveness from Me so that I may forgive him?” [Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith Qudsi]
Amr ibn Absah narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) said: ‘The closest any worshipper can be to His Lord is during the last part of the night, so if you can be amongst those who remember Allah at that time, then do so.’ [At-Tirmidhi, an-Nasa’i, al-Hakim - Sahih]
2. Late at night
When people are sleeping and busy with worldly pleasures Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) gives the believers an opportunity, or an answer hour if they can fight sleep and invoke Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) for whatever they need.
The Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘There is at night an hour, no Muslim happens to be asking Allah any matter of this world or the Hereafter, except that he will be given it, and this (occurs) every night.’ [Muslim #757]
3. Between Adhan and Iqamah
Anas (Rali Allahu Anhu) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘A supplication made between the Adhan and Iqama is not rejected.’ [Ahmad, abu Dawud #521, at-Tirmidhi #212, Sahih al-Jami #3408, an-Nasai and Ibn Hibban graded it sahih (sound)]
4. An Hour on Friday
Narrated Abu Hurairah (Rali Allahu Anhu ): Allah’s Messenger (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) talked about Friday and said:
‘There is an hour on Friday and if a Muslim gets it while offering Salat (prayer) and asks something from Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala), then Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) will definitely meet his demand.’ And he the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) pointed out shortness of that particular time with his hands. [Sahih al-Bukhari]
Some have said that this hour is from the time the Imam (prayer’s leader) enters the mosque on Friday’s prayer until the prayer is over (ie between the two khutbahs), whereas others have said that it is the last hour of the day (ie after the Asr prayer until the Maghrib prayer).
(Note: when we say an hour here we do not mean the hour everyone knows (60 minutes) but an unspecified period of time because the time counters which we use today came after the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) had died.
5. While Drinking Zamzam Water
Jaber (Rali Allahu Anhu ) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘Zamzam water is for what it is drunk for.’ [Ahmad 3: 357 and Ibn Majah #3062]
This means that when you drink Zamzam water you may ask Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) for anything you like to gain or benefit from this water such as healing from illness.... etc.
6. While Prostrating
Abu Hurairah (Rali Allahu Anhu ) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (Salallahu alayhi wasalam), said:
‘The nearest a slave can be to his Lord is when he is prostrating, so invoke (supplicate) Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) much in it. [Muslim, abu Dawud, an-Nasa’i and others, Sahih al-Jami #1175]
When a Muslim is in his Salat (prayer) he is facing Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) and when he prostrates he is the nearest he can be to Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) so it is best to invoke Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) at this time. It is said that while in prostration, one should not ask for worldly needs (ie a nice car, a new job, etc), but for the Hereafter.
7. When Waking Up at Night
Narrated Ubada Bin As-Samit that Allah’s Messenger (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘Whoever wakes up at night and says La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la shrika lahu lahulmulku, wa lahul hamdu, wa huwa ala kulli shai’in qadir. Alhamdu lillahi, wa subhanallahi wa la ilaha illallahu, wallah akbir, wa la hawla wala quwata illa billah (none has the right to be worshipped but Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) He is the only one who has no partners. His is the kingdom and all the praises are for Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) All the glories are for Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) And none has the right to be worshipped but Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) and Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) is the most Great and there is neither might nor power except with Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) and then says, Allahumma ighfir li (O Allah! Forgive me) or invokes Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala), he will be responded to and if he makes ablution and performs Salat (prayer), his Salat (prayer) will be accepted. [Sahih al-Bukhari]
8. At The End Of The Obligatory Salat
Narrated Abu Omamah (Rali Allahu Anhu ): that Allah’s Messenger (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) was asked, O Messenger of Allah, which supplication is heard (by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala), he said the end of the night and at the end of the obligatory Salat (prayer) [at-Tirmidhi] This time is after saying ‘At-tahyat’ , and before making Tasleem (finishing prayer)
9. The Night Of ‘Qadr’ (Decree)
This night is the greatest night of the year. This is the night which the almighty Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) said about it, “The night of Al-Qadar (Decree) is better than a thousand months.” [Surah al-Qadr, 97: 3]
The Night of Decree is one of the odd nights of the last ten nights of the blessed month of Ramadan. The angels descend down to the earth, and the earth is overwhelmed with peace and serenity until the break of dawn and when the doors of Paradise are opened, the worshipper is encouraged to turn to Allah to ask for his needs for this world and the Hereafter.
10. During The Rain
Narrated Sahel Ibn Sa’ad (Rali Allahu Anhu ): that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘Two will not be rejected, Supplication when the Adhan (call of prayer) is being called, and at the time of the rain’. [Al-Hakim 2: 114, and Abu Dawud #2540, ibn Majah]
‘Seek the response to your du’as when the armies meet, and the prayer is called, and when rain falls’ [Reported by Imam al-Shafi’ in al-Umm, al-Sahihah #1469]
The time of the rain is a time of mercy from Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) so, one should take advantage of this time when Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) is having mercy on His slaves.
11. At the Adhan
‘Seek the response to your du’as when the armies meet, and the prayer is called, and when rain falls’ [Reported by Imam al-Shafi’ in al-Umm, al-Sahihah #1469]
In another hadith; ‘When the prayer is called, the doors of the skies are opened, and the du’a is answered’ [al-Tayalisi in his Musnad #2106, al-Sahihah #1413]
12. The One Who Is Suffering Injustice and Oppression
The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said to Mua'ad Ibn Jabal (Rali Allahu Anhu ), 'Beware of the supplication of the unjustly treated, because there is no shelter or veil between it (the supplication of the one who is suffering injustice) and Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala)'
(Sahih Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
The Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) declared,
'Three men whose du'a is never rejected (by Allah) are: the fasting person until he breaks his fast (in another narration, when he breaks fast), the just ruler and the one who is oppressed" (Ahmad, at-Tirmidhi - Hasan)
In another hadith; The Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) declared: 'Three du'as are surely answered: The du'a of the oppressed, the du'a of the traveller, and the du'a of the father/mother (upon their child)'
The One who is suffering injustice is heard by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala) when he invokes Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala) to retain his rights from the unjust one or oppressor. Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala) has sworn to help the one who is suffering from injustice sooner or later as the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said.
13. The Traveller
The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said; Three supplications will not be rejected by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala)), the supplication of the parent for his child, the supplication of the one who is fasting, and the supplication of the traveller. (al-Bayhaqi, at-Tirmidhi - Sahih)
During travel supplication is heard by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala) if the trip is for a good reason, but if the trip is for a bad intention or to perform illegal things (making sins) this will not apply to it.
14. The Parent's Supplication for their Child
The Messenger of Allah (SalAllahu alayhi wasalam) said; Three supplications will not be rejected (by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala)), the supplication of the parent for his child, the supplication of the one who is fasting, and the supplication of the traveller. [al-Bayhaqi, at-Tirmidhi - Sahih]
15. Dua after praising Allah and giving salat on the Prophet (sal Allahu alayhi wasalam) in the tashahhud at the end of salat.
Narrated Faddalah ibn Ubayd (Rali Allahu Anhu ): that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'When anyone of you makes du'a, let him start by glorifying his Lord and praising Him, then let him send blessings upon the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam), then let him pray for whatever he wants' [abu Dawud #1481, at-Tirmidhi #3477]
In another hadith; Baqiy ibn Mukhallid (Rali Allahu Anhu) narrated that that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: 'Every du'a is not responded to until one sends blessings upon the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam)' [al-Bayhaqi]
In another hadith; Umar (Rali Allahu Anhu) narrated that the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'Du'a is detained between the heavens and the earth and no part of it is taken up until you send blessings upon your Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam)' [at-Tirmidhi #486]
After a person has finished his tashahhud and before saying the 'salam', supplication at this time is one likely to be responded to. Ibn Mas'ud narrates: I was once praying, and the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam), Abu Bakr and Umar (were all present). When I sat down (in the final tashahhud), I praised Allah, then sent salams on the Prophet, then started praying for myself. At this, the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'Ask, and you shall be given it! Ask, and you shall be given it!' (at-Tirmidhi #593 - hasan, Mishkat al-Misbah #931)
16. The dua of a Muslim for his absent brother or sister Muslim stemming from the heart.
The prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: 'There is no believing servant who supplicates for his brother in his absence where the angels do not say, 'the same be for you'' [Muslim]
17. Dua on the Day of Arafat
The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: 'The best supplication is the supplication on the day of Arafat'. [at-Tirmidhi and Malik]
The day of Arafat is the essence and pinnacle of Hajj. On this great and momentous day, millions of worshippers gather together on one plain, from every corner of the world, with only one purpose in mind - to response to the call of their Creator. During this auspicious day, Allah does not refuse the requests of His worshippers.
18. Dua during the month of Ramadan
Ramadan is month full of many blessings, thus the du'a of Ramadan is a blessed one. This can be inferred from the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) saying: 'When Ramadan comes, the Doors of Mercy (another narration says Paradise ) are opened, and the doors of Hell are closed, and the Sahitans are locked up'
Thus, it is clear that du'a during Ramadan has a greater chance of being accepted, as the Gates of Paradise and Mercy is opened. [Sahih al-Bukhari #1899, Muslim #1079 and others]
19. Dua when the Armies meet
When the Muslim is facing the enemy in battle, at this critical period, the du'a of a worshipper is accepted.
Sahl bn Sa'd(Rali Allahu Anhu) narrated the the Prophet Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'Two dua's are never rejected, or rarely rejected: the du'a during the call for prayer, and the du'a during the calamity when the two armies attack each other' [abu Dawud #2540, ibn Majah, al-Hakim]
In another narration: 'Seek the response to your du'as when the armies meet, and the prayer is called, and when rain falls' [Reported by Imam al-Shafi' in al-Umm, al-Sahihah #1469]
20. When Muslims gather for the purpose of invoking and remembering Allah (Dhikrullah)
The Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: If a group of people sit together remembering Allah, the angels will circle them, mercy will shroud them, peace will descend onto them and Allah will remember them among those with Him. [Muslim]
21. First Ten days of Dhul-Hijjah
The Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'There are no days during which good deeds are more beloved to Allah than during these ten days' [Sahih al-Bukhai #969 and others]
22. At Midnight
Abu Umamah (Rali Allahu Anhu) said, the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) was questioned; 'Which du'a is heard (by Allah)?' He answered, 'At midnight and at the end of every obligatory prayer.' [At-Tirmidhi - Hasan]
23. Dua of people after the death of a person
In a long hadith, Umm Salamah (Rali Allahu Anhu) narrated that the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said, when Abu Salamah had just passed away, and had closed his eyes,
'Do not ask for yourselves anything but good, for the angels will say 'Ameen' to all that you ask for. O Allah, forgive Abu Salamah, and raise his ranks among those who are guided.' [Muslim, abu Dawud, Ahmad]
24. Dua of the one fasting until he breaks his fast
The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said; Three supplications will not be rejected (by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala)), the supplication of the parent for his child, the supplication of the one who is fasting, and the supplication of the traveller. [al-Bayhaqi, at-Tirmidhi - Sahih]
25. Dua of the one fasting at the time of breaking fast
The prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) declared, 'Three men whose du'a is never rejected by Allah are: when a fasting person breaks fast (in another narration, the fasting person until he breaks his fast), the just ruler and the one who is oppressed.' [Ahmad, at-Tirmidhi - Hasan]
26. Dua of a just Ruler
The prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) declared, 'Three men whose du'a is never rejected by Allah are: the fasting person until he breaks his fast (in another narration, when he breaks fast), the just ruler and the one who is oppressed.' [Ahmad, at-Tirmidhi - Hasan]
27. Du'a of a son or daughter obedient to his or her parents
It is well known in the story narrated in hadith of three men who were trapped by a huge stone in a cave. One of them who was kind to kids and parents asked Allah to remove the stone, and his du'a was answered. [Sahih al-Bukhari 3:36 #472]
28. Dua immediately after wudu
Umar ibn Al-Khattab (Rali Allahu Anhu) reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: 'There is not one of you that makes wudu, and does it perfectly, then says: I testify that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah. He is Alone, having no partners. And I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and messenger', except that the eight gates of Paradise are opened for him, and he can enter into it through whichever one He pleases'
[Muslim #234, abu Dawud #162, Ahmad, an-Nasa'i]
Saying what has been mentioned in the hadith that is directly related to it (ablution)
29. Dua after stoning the Jamarat at Hajj
The stoning of the small Shaitan (jamrat sugra), or the middle Shaitan (jamrat wusta) pillars during Hajj. It is narrated that the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) would stone the small Jamarah (one of the three pillars that is stoned in the last days of Hajj), then face the qiblah, raise his hands, and make du'a for a long time. He would then stone the middle Jamarah and do the same. When he stoned the large Jamarah, he would depart without making any du'a.
[Sahih al-Bukhari #1753 and others]
30. At the Crowing of a Rooster
Abu Hurairah (Rali Allahu Anhu) narrated that the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: 'When you hear a rooster crowing, then ask Allah for His bounties, for it has seen an angel, and when you hear a donkey braying, then seek refuge in Allah from Shaitan, for it has seen a Shaitan' [Sahih al-Bukhari, Muslim, Ahmad, Sahih al-Jami #611]
31. Du'a made inside the Ka'bah
The Ka'bah is a sanctuary that has no comparison in the entire world. The du'a of one who prays inside the hijr is considered as being made inside the ka'bah, as it is part of the house (Baitullah). [This is the semicircle to the right of the Ka'bah if you face the door, opposite to the Yemeni corner and the Black stone wall.]
Usamah ibn Zayd narrated, 'When the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) entered the House (Ka'bah), and he made du'a in all of its corners [Muslim 2: 968 and others]
32. Du'a on the mount of Safa or Marwah during Umrah or Hajj
It is narrated that the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) would make long du'as at Safa and Marwah. [Muslim #1218 and others]
33. While reciting Surah al-Fatihah
The Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said that Allah the Exalted had said: ' I have divided the prayer into two halves between me and my servant, and my servant will receive what he asks for. When the servant says: Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the universe, Allah the Most High says: My servant has praised Me. And when he (the servant) says: The Most Compassionate, the Merciful, and Allah the Most High says: My servant has lauded Me. When he (the servant) says: Master of the Day of Judgment, He remarks: My servant has glorified me, and sometimes He will say: My servant entrusted (his affairs) to Me. When he (the worshipper) says: Thee do we worship and of Thee do we ask help, He (Allah) says: This is between me and my servant, and my servant will receive what he asks for. Then, when he (the worshipper) says: Guide us to the straight path, the path of those to whom Thou hast been Gracious - not of those who have incurred Thy displeasure, nor of those who have gone astray, He (Allah) says: This is for My servant, and My servant will receive what he asks for. [Muslim 4: 395]
34. Saying 'Ameen' during prayer
After finishing the recitation of Al-Fatihah, the saying of 'Ameen' in congregation.
The Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: 'When the Imam says 'Ameen', then recite it behind him (as well), because whoever's Ameen coincides with the Ameen of the angels will have all of his sins forgiven.' [Sahih al-Bukhari #780, Muslim #410 and others]
35. While visiting the sick, and dua made by the sick
Umm Salamah narrated that the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'When you visit the sick, or the dead then say good, because the angels say 'Ameen' to whatever you say. [Muslim #2126]
Ali (Radhi Allahu Anhu ) reported that the Prophet (SalAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'When a Muslim visits his sick Muslim brother in the morning, seventy thousand angels make dua for his forgiveness till the evening. And when he visits him in the evening, seventy thousand angels make dua for his forgiveness till the morning, and he will be granted a garden for it in Jannah.' [At-Tirmidhi, abu Dawud]
- Author unknown
1. The Last Third Of The Night
Abu Hurairah (Rali Allahu Anhu) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (SalAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘In the last third of every night our Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer) (Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala)) descends to the lowermost heaven and says; “Who is calling Me, so that I may answer him? Who is asking Me so that may I grant him? Who is seeking forgiveness from Me so that I may forgive him?” [Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith Qudsi]
Amr ibn Absah narrated that the Prophet (PBUH) said: ‘The closest any worshipper can be to His Lord is during the last part of the night, so if you can be amongst those who remember Allah at that time, then do so.’ [At-Tirmidhi, an-Nasa’i, al-Hakim - Sahih]
2. Late at night
When people are sleeping and busy with worldly pleasures Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) gives the believers an opportunity, or an answer hour if they can fight sleep and invoke Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) for whatever they need.
The Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘There is at night an hour, no Muslim happens to be asking Allah any matter of this world or the Hereafter, except that he will be given it, and this (occurs) every night.’ [Muslim #757]
3. Between Adhan and Iqamah
Anas (Rali Allahu Anhu) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘A supplication made between the Adhan and Iqama is not rejected.’ [Ahmad, abu Dawud #521, at-Tirmidhi #212, Sahih al-Jami #3408, an-Nasai and Ibn Hibban graded it sahih (sound)]
4. An Hour on Friday
Narrated Abu Hurairah (Rali Allahu Anhu ): Allah’s Messenger (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) talked about Friday and said:
‘There is an hour on Friday and if a Muslim gets it while offering Salat (prayer) and asks something from Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala), then Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) will definitely meet his demand.’ And he the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) pointed out shortness of that particular time with his hands. [Sahih al-Bukhari]
Some have said that this hour is from the time the Imam (prayer’s leader) enters the mosque on Friday’s prayer until the prayer is over (ie between the two khutbahs), whereas others have said that it is the last hour of the day (ie after the Asr prayer until the Maghrib prayer).
(Note: when we say an hour here we do not mean the hour everyone knows (60 minutes) but an unspecified period of time because the time counters which we use today came after the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) had died.
5. While Drinking Zamzam Water
Jaber (Rali Allahu Anhu ) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘Zamzam water is for what it is drunk for.’ [Ahmad 3: 357 and Ibn Majah #3062]
This means that when you drink Zamzam water you may ask Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) for anything you like to gain or benefit from this water such as healing from illness.... etc.
6. While Prostrating
Abu Hurairah (Rali Allahu Anhu ) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (Salallahu alayhi wasalam), said:
‘The nearest a slave can be to his Lord is when he is prostrating, so invoke (supplicate) Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) much in it. [Muslim, abu Dawud, an-Nasa’i and others, Sahih al-Jami #1175]
When a Muslim is in his Salat (prayer) he is facing Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) and when he prostrates he is the nearest he can be to Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) so it is best to invoke Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) at this time. It is said that while in prostration, one should not ask for worldly needs (ie a nice car, a new job, etc), but for the Hereafter.
7. When Waking Up at Night
Narrated Ubada Bin As-Samit that Allah’s Messenger (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘Whoever wakes up at night and says La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la shrika lahu lahulmulku, wa lahul hamdu, wa huwa ala kulli shai’in qadir. Alhamdu lillahi, wa subhanallahi wa la ilaha illallahu, wallah akbir, wa la hawla wala quwata illa billah (none has the right to be worshipped but Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) He is the only one who has no partners. His is the kingdom and all the praises are for Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) All the glories are for Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) And none has the right to be worshipped but Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) and Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) is the most Great and there is neither might nor power except with Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) and then says, Allahumma ighfir li (O Allah! Forgive me) or invokes Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala), he will be responded to and if he makes ablution and performs Salat (prayer), his Salat (prayer) will be accepted. [Sahih al-Bukhari]
8. At The End Of The Obligatory Salat
Narrated Abu Omamah (Rali Allahu Anhu ): that Allah’s Messenger (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) was asked, O Messenger of Allah, which supplication is heard (by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala), he said the end of the night and at the end of the obligatory Salat (prayer) [at-Tirmidhi] This time is after saying ‘At-tahyat’ , and before making Tasleem (finishing prayer)
9. The Night Of ‘Qadr’ (Decree)
This night is the greatest night of the year. This is the night which the almighty Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) said about it, “The night of Al-Qadar (Decree) is better than a thousand months.” [Surah al-Qadr, 97: 3]
The Night of Decree is one of the odd nights of the last ten nights of the blessed month of Ramadan. The angels descend down to the earth, and the earth is overwhelmed with peace and serenity until the break of dawn and when the doors of Paradise are opened, the worshipper is encouraged to turn to Allah to ask for his needs for this world and the Hereafter.
10. During The Rain
Narrated Sahel Ibn Sa’ad (Rali Allahu Anhu ): that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘Two will not be rejected, Supplication when the Adhan (call of prayer) is being called, and at the time of the rain’. [Al-Hakim 2: 114, and Abu Dawud #2540, ibn Majah]
‘Seek the response to your du’as when the armies meet, and the prayer is called, and when rain falls’ [Reported by Imam al-Shafi’ in al-Umm, al-Sahihah #1469]
The time of the rain is a time of mercy from Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) so, one should take advantage of this time when Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) is having mercy on His slaves.
11. At the Adhan
‘Seek the response to your du’as when the armies meet, and the prayer is called, and when rain falls’ [Reported by Imam al-Shafi’ in al-Umm, al-Sahihah #1469]
In another hadith; ‘When the prayer is called, the doors of the skies are opened, and the du’a is answered’ [al-Tayalisi in his Musnad #2106, al-Sahihah #1413]
12. The One Who Is Suffering Injustice and Oppression
The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said to Mua'ad Ibn Jabal (Rali Allahu Anhu ), 'Beware of the supplication of the unjustly treated, because there is no shelter or veil between it (the supplication of the one who is suffering injustice) and Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala)'
(Sahih Al-Bukhari and Muslim)
The Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) declared,
'Three men whose du'a is never rejected (by Allah) are: the fasting person until he breaks his fast (in another narration, when he breaks fast), the just ruler and the one who is oppressed" (Ahmad, at-Tirmidhi - Hasan)
In another hadith; The Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) declared: 'Three du'as are surely answered: The du'a of the oppressed, the du'a of the traveller, and the du'a of the father/mother (upon their child)'
The One who is suffering injustice is heard by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala) when he invokes Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala) to retain his rights from the unjust one or oppressor. Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala) has sworn to help the one who is suffering from injustice sooner or later as the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said.
13. The Traveller
The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said; Three supplications will not be rejected by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala)), the supplication of the parent for his child, the supplication of the one who is fasting, and the supplication of the traveller. (al-Bayhaqi, at-Tirmidhi - Sahih)
During travel supplication is heard by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala) if the trip is for a good reason, but if the trip is for a bad intention or to perform illegal things (making sins) this will not apply to it.
14. The Parent's Supplication for their Child
The Messenger of Allah (SalAllahu alayhi wasalam) said; Three supplications will not be rejected (by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala)), the supplication of the parent for his child, the supplication of the one who is fasting, and the supplication of the traveller. [al-Bayhaqi, at-Tirmidhi - Sahih]
15. Dua after praising Allah and giving salat on the Prophet (sal Allahu alayhi wasalam) in the tashahhud at the end of salat.
Narrated Faddalah ibn Ubayd (Rali Allahu Anhu ): that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'When anyone of you makes du'a, let him start by glorifying his Lord and praising Him, then let him send blessings upon the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam), then let him pray for whatever he wants' [abu Dawud #1481, at-Tirmidhi #3477]
In another hadith; Baqiy ibn Mukhallid (Rali Allahu Anhu) narrated that that the Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: 'Every du'a is not responded to until one sends blessings upon the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam)' [al-Bayhaqi]
In another hadith; Umar (Rali Allahu Anhu) narrated that the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'Du'a is detained between the heavens and the earth and no part of it is taken up until you send blessings upon your Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam)' [at-Tirmidhi #486]
After a person has finished his tashahhud and before saying the 'salam', supplication at this time is one likely to be responded to. Ibn Mas'ud narrates: I was once praying, and the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam), Abu Bakr and Umar (were all present). When I sat down (in the final tashahhud), I praised Allah, then sent salams on the Prophet, then started praying for myself. At this, the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'Ask, and you shall be given it! Ask, and you shall be given it!' (at-Tirmidhi #593 - hasan, Mishkat al-Misbah #931)
16. The dua of a Muslim for his absent brother or sister Muslim stemming from the heart.
The prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: 'There is no believing servant who supplicates for his brother in his absence where the angels do not say, 'the same be for you'' [Muslim]
17. Dua on the Day of Arafat
The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: 'The best supplication is the supplication on the day of Arafat'. [at-Tirmidhi and Malik]
The day of Arafat is the essence and pinnacle of Hajj. On this great and momentous day, millions of worshippers gather together on one plain, from every corner of the world, with only one purpose in mind - to response to the call of their Creator. During this auspicious day, Allah does not refuse the requests of His worshippers.
18. Dua during the month of Ramadan
Ramadan is month full of many blessings, thus the du'a of Ramadan is a blessed one. This can be inferred from the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) saying: 'When Ramadan comes, the Doors of Mercy (another narration says Paradise ) are opened, and the doors of Hell are closed, and the Sahitans are locked up'
Thus, it is clear that du'a during Ramadan has a greater chance of being accepted, as the Gates of Paradise and Mercy is opened. [Sahih al-Bukhari #1899, Muslim #1079 and others]
19. Dua when the Armies meet
When the Muslim is facing the enemy in battle, at this critical period, the du'a of a worshipper is accepted.
Sahl bn Sa'd(Rali Allahu Anhu) narrated the the Prophet Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'Two dua's are never rejected, or rarely rejected: the du'a during the call for prayer, and the du'a during the calamity when the two armies attack each other' [abu Dawud #2540, ibn Majah, al-Hakim]
In another narration: 'Seek the response to your du'as when the armies meet, and the prayer is called, and when rain falls' [Reported by Imam al-Shafi' in al-Umm, al-Sahihah #1469]
20. When Muslims gather for the purpose of invoking and remembering Allah (Dhikrullah)
The Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: If a group of people sit together remembering Allah, the angels will circle them, mercy will shroud them, peace will descend onto them and Allah will remember them among those with Him. [Muslim]
21. First Ten days of Dhul-Hijjah
The Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'There are no days during which good deeds are more beloved to Allah than during these ten days' [Sahih al-Bukhai #969 and others]
22. At Midnight
Abu Umamah (Rali Allahu Anhu) said, the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) was questioned; 'Which du'a is heard (by Allah)?' He answered, 'At midnight and at the end of every obligatory prayer.' [At-Tirmidhi - Hasan]
23. Dua of people after the death of a person
In a long hadith, Umm Salamah (Rali Allahu Anhu) narrated that the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said, when Abu Salamah had just passed away, and had closed his eyes,
'Do not ask for yourselves anything but good, for the angels will say 'Ameen' to all that you ask for. O Allah, forgive Abu Salamah, and raise his ranks among those who are guided.' [Muslim, abu Dawud, Ahmad]
24. Dua of the one fasting until he breaks his fast
The Messenger of Allah (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said; Three supplications will not be rejected (by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala)), the supplication of the parent for his child, the supplication of the one who is fasting, and the supplication of the traveller. [al-Bayhaqi, at-Tirmidhi - Sahih]
25. Dua of the one fasting at the time of breaking fast
The prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) declared, 'Three men whose du'a is never rejected by Allah are: when a fasting person breaks fast (in another narration, the fasting person until he breaks his fast), the just ruler and the one who is oppressed.' [Ahmad, at-Tirmidhi - Hasan]
26. Dua of a just Ruler
The prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) declared, 'Three men whose du'a is never rejected by Allah are: the fasting person until he breaks his fast (in another narration, when he breaks fast), the just ruler and the one who is oppressed.' [Ahmad, at-Tirmidhi - Hasan]
27. Du'a of a son or daughter obedient to his or her parents
It is well known in the story narrated in hadith of three men who were trapped by a huge stone in a cave. One of them who was kind to kids and parents asked Allah to remove the stone, and his du'a was answered. [Sahih al-Bukhari 3:36 #472]
28. Dua immediately after wudu
Umar ibn Al-Khattab (Rali Allahu Anhu) reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: 'There is not one of you that makes wudu, and does it perfectly, then says: I testify that there is no deity worthy of worship except Allah. He is Alone, having no partners. And I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and messenger', except that the eight gates of Paradise are opened for him, and he can enter into it through whichever one He pleases'
[Muslim #234, abu Dawud #162, Ahmad, an-Nasa'i]
Saying what has been mentioned in the hadith that is directly related to it (ablution)
29. Dua after stoning the Jamarat at Hajj
The stoning of the small Shaitan (jamrat sugra), or the middle Shaitan (jamrat wusta) pillars during Hajj. It is narrated that the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) would stone the small Jamarah (one of the three pillars that is stoned in the last days of Hajj), then face the qiblah, raise his hands, and make du'a for a long time. He would then stone the middle Jamarah and do the same. When he stoned the large Jamarah, he would depart without making any du'a.
[Sahih al-Bukhari #1753 and others]
30. At the Crowing of a Rooster
Abu Hurairah (Rali Allahu Anhu) narrated that the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: 'When you hear a rooster crowing, then ask Allah for His bounties, for it has seen an angel, and when you hear a donkey braying, then seek refuge in Allah from Shaitan, for it has seen a Shaitan' [Sahih al-Bukhari, Muslim, Ahmad, Sahih al-Jami #611]
31. Du'a made inside the Ka'bah
The Ka'bah is a sanctuary that has no comparison in the entire world. The du'a of one who prays inside the hijr is considered as being made inside the ka'bah, as it is part of the house (Baitullah). [This is the semicircle to the right of the Ka'bah if you face the door, opposite to the Yemeni corner and the Black stone wall.]
Usamah ibn Zayd narrated, 'When the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) entered the House (Ka'bah), and he made du'a in all of its corners [Muslim 2: 968 and others]
32. Du'a on the mount of Safa or Marwah during Umrah or Hajj
It is narrated that the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) would make long du'as at Safa and Marwah. [Muslim #1218 and others]
33. While reciting Surah al-Fatihah
The Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said that Allah the Exalted had said: ' I have divided the prayer into two halves between me and my servant, and my servant will receive what he asks for. When the servant says: Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the universe, Allah the Most High says: My servant has praised Me. And when he (the servant) says: The Most Compassionate, the Merciful, and Allah the Most High says: My servant has lauded Me. When he (the servant) says: Master of the Day of Judgment, He remarks: My servant has glorified me, and sometimes He will say: My servant entrusted (his affairs) to Me. When he (the worshipper) says: Thee do we worship and of Thee do we ask help, He (Allah) says: This is between me and my servant, and my servant will receive what he asks for. Then, when he (the worshipper) says: Guide us to the straight path, the path of those to whom Thou hast been Gracious - not of those who have incurred Thy displeasure, nor of those who have gone astray, He (Allah) says: This is for My servant, and My servant will receive what he asks for. [Muslim 4: 395]
34. Saying 'Ameen' during prayer
After finishing the recitation of Al-Fatihah, the saying of 'Ameen' in congregation.
The Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said: 'When the Imam says 'Ameen', then recite it behind him (as well), because whoever's Ameen coincides with the Ameen of the angels will have all of his sins forgiven.' [Sahih al-Bukhari #780, Muslim #410 and others]
35. While visiting the sick, and dua made by the sick
Umm Salamah narrated that the Prophet (Salallahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'When you visit the sick, or the dead then say good, because the angels say 'Ameen' to whatever you say. [Muslim #2126]
Ali (Radhi Allahu Anhu ) reported that the Prophet (SalAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:
'When a Muslim visits his sick Muslim brother in the morning, seventy thousand angels make dua for his forgiveness till the evening. And when he visits him in the evening, seventy thousand angels make dua for his forgiveness till the morning, and he will be granted a garden for it in Jannah.' [At-Tirmidhi, abu Dawud]
- Author unknown
Tuesday, September 23, 2008
Inspirational Story
Inspirational story
A young man had been to Wednesday Night Class of Quranic Studies. The Mualim had shared about listening to Allah and obeying Allah through intuition. The young man couldn't help but wonder, 'Does Allah still speak to people through intuition?' After Lessons, he went out with some friends for coffee and pie and they discussed the message. Several different ones talked about how Allah had led them in different ways and that at the end you'll know it was Allah(SWT) Who has directed you.
It was about ten o'clock when the young man started driving home. Sitting in his car, he just began to pray, 'Allah...If you still speak to people, speak to me. I will listen. I will do my best to obey.' As he drove down the main street of his town, he had the strangest thought to stop and buy a gallon of milk. He shook his head and said out loud, 'Allah is that you?' He didn't get a reply and started on toward home. But again, the thought, buy a gallon of milk came into his head. 'Okay, Allah, in case that is you, I will buy the milk.' It didn't seem like too hard a test of obedience. He could always use the milk. He stopped and purchased the gallon of milk and started off toward home. As he passed Seventh Street , he again felt the urge, 'Turn Down that street.' This is crazy he thought, and drove on past the intersection. Again, he felt that he should turn down Seventh Street .. At the next intersection, he turned back and headed down Seventh. Half jokingly, he said out loud, 'Okay, Allah, I will.'
He drove several blocks, when suddenly, he felt like he should stop. He pulled over to the curb and looked around. He was in a semi-commercial area of town. It wasn't the best but it wasn't the worst of neighborhoods either. The businesses were closed and most of the houses looked dark like the people were already in bed. Again, he sensed something, 'Go and give the milk to the people in the house across the street.' The young man looked at the house. It was dark and it looked like the people were either gone or they were already asleep. He started to open the door and then sat back in the car seat. 'Allah, this is insane. Those people are asleep and if I wake them up, they are going to be mad and I will look stupid.' Again, he felt like he should go and give the milk.
Finally, he opened the door, 'Okay Allah (SWT), if this is you, I will go to the door and I will give them the milk. If you want me to look like a crazy person, okay. I want to be obedient. I guess that will count for something, but if they don't answer right away, I am out of here.' He walked across the street and rang the bell. He could hear some noise inside. A man's voice yelled out, 'Who is it? What do you want?' Then the door opened before the young man could get away. The man was standing there in his jeans and T-shirt. He looked like he just got out of bed. He had a strange look on his face and he didn't seem too happy to have some stranger standing on his doorstep. 'What is it?' The young man thrust out the gallon of milk, 'Here, I brought this to you.'
The man took the milk and rushed down a hallway. Then from down the hall came a woman carrying the milk toward the kitchen. The man was following her holding a baby. The baby was crying. The man had tears streaming down his face. The man began speaking and half crying, 'We were just praying. We had some big bills this month and we ran out of money. We didn't have any milk for our baby. I was just praying and asking Allah (SWT) to show me how to get some milk.' His wife in the kitchen yelled out, 'I ask him to send an Angel with some. Are you an Angel?'
The young man reached into his wallet and pulled out all the money he had on him and put in the man's hand. He turned and walked back toward his car and the tears were streaming down his face. He knew that Allah (SWT) still answers prayers."
If you put your whole trust in Allah, as you ought, He most certainly will satisfy your needs, as He satisfies those of the birds. They come out hungry in the morning, but return full to their nests." (Tirmidhi)"
What actions are most excellent? To gladden the heart of human beings, to feed the hungry, to help the afflicted, to lighten the sorrow of the sorrowful, and to remove the sufferings of the injured." (Bukhari)
Moral: Allah swt always waits for us. He is ready to forgive us and answer our prayers. However it is us who need to get closer to Him. He is always there for us and waiting for us to ask for anything, yet we choose to do things on our own. Remember that He is the Creator and the Rabb of the universe and is willing to help you in your time of need. I believe it is time that we finally open our hearts and mind and submit ourselves to His will. This is a reminder to myself and to everyone else.
"O Rubb, grant me Your love, grant me that I love those who love You; grant me, that I might do the deeds that win Your love. Make Your love dearer to me than the love of myself, my family and wealth." (Tirmidhi)
Ameen.
A young man had been to Wednesday Night Class of Quranic Studies. The Mualim had shared about listening to Allah and obeying Allah through intuition. The young man couldn't help but wonder, 'Does Allah still speak to people through intuition?' After Lessons, he went out with some friends for coffee and pie and they discussed the message. Several different ones talked about how Allah had led them in different ways and that at the end you'll know it was Allah(SWT) Who has directed you.
It was about ten o'clock when the young man started driving home. Sitting in his car, he just began to pray, 'Allah...If you still speak to people, speak to me. I will listen. I will do my best to obey.' As he drove down the main street of his town, he had the strangest thought to stop and buy a gallon of milk. He shook his head and said out loud, 'Allah is that you?' He didn't get a reply and started on toward home. But again, the thought, buy a gallon of milk came into his head. 'Okay, Allah, in case that is you, I will buy the milk.' It didn't seem like too hard a test of obedience. He could always use the milk. He stopped and purchased the gallon of milk and started off toward home. As he passed Seventh Street , he again felt the urge, 'Turn Down that street.' This is crazy he thought, and drove on past the intersection. Again, he felt that he should turn down Seventh Street .. At the next intersection, he turned back and headed down Seventh. Half jokingly, he said out loud, 'Okay, Allah, I will.'
He drove several blocks, when suddenly, he felt like he should stop. He pulled over to the curb and looked around. He was in a semi-commercial area of town. It wasn't the best but it wasn't the worst of neighborhoods either. The businesses were closed and most of the houses looked dark like the people were already in bed. Again, he sensed something, 'Go and give the milk to the people in the house across the street.' The young man looked at the house. It was dark and it looked like the people were either gone or they were already asleep. He started to open the door and then sat back in the car seat. 'Allah, this is insane. Those people are asleep and if I wake them up, they are going to be mad and I will look stupid.' Again, he felt like he should go and give the milk.
Finally, he opened the door, 'Okay Allah (SWT), if this is you, I will go to the door and I will give them the milk. If you want me to look like a crazy person, okay. I want to be obedient. I guess that will count for something, but if they don't answer right away, I am out of here.' He walked across the street and rang the bell. He could hear some noise inside. A man's voice yelled out, 'Who is it? What do you want?' Then the door opened before the young man could get away. The man was standing there in his jeans and T-shirt. He looked like he just got out of bed. He had a strange look on his face and he didn't seem too happy to have some stranger standing on his doorstep. 'What is it?' The young man thrust out the gallon of milk, 'Here, I brought this to you.'
The man took the milk and rushed down a hallway. Then from down the hall came a woman carrying the milk toward the kitchen. The man was following her holding a baby. The baby was crying. The man had tears streaming down his face. The man began speaking and half crying, 'We were just praying. We had some big bills this month and we ran out of money. We didn't have any milk for our baby. I was just praying and asking Allah (SWT) to show me how to get some milk.' His wife in the kitchen yelled out, 'I ask him to send an Angel with some. Are you an Angel?'
The young man reached into his wallet and pulled out all the money he had on him and put in the man's hand. He turned and walked back toward his car and the tears were streaming down his face. He knew that Allah (SWT) still answers prayers."
If you put your whole trust in Allah, as you ought, He most certainly will satisfy your needs, as He satisfies those of the birds. They come out hungry in the morning, but return full to their nests." (Tirmidhi)"
What actions are most excellent? To gladden the heart of human beings, to feed the hungry, to help the afflicted, to lighten the sorrow of the sorrowful, and to remove the sufferings of the injured." (Bukhari)
Moral: Allah swt always waits for us. He is ready to forgive us and answer our prayers. However it is us who need to get closer to Him. He is always there for us and waiting for us to ask for anything, yet we choose to do things on our own. Remember that He is the Creator and the Rabb of the universe and is willing to help you in your time of need. I believe it is time that we finally open our hearts and mind and submit ourselves to His will. This is a reminder to myself and to everyone else.
"O Rubb, grant me Your love, grant me that I love those who love You; grant me, that I might do the deeds that win Your love. Make Your love dearer to me than the love of myself, my family and wealth." (Tirmidhi)
Ameen.
Monday, September 22, 2008
Purity Does Not Lie in Rituals....
Since man is made of clay, he can never be completely pure.
Since clay is basically foul, how can humans escape their basic nature?
Purity does not lie in rituals, nor can human nature be changed by effort.
Those who love God and remain conscious only of their Beloved attain purity.
-Al-Hujwiri, "The Kashf al-Mahjub"
Since clay is basically foul, how can humans escape their basic nature?
Purity does not lie in rituals, nor can human nature be changed by effort.
Those who love God and remain conscious only of their Beloved attain purity.
-Al-Hujwiri, "The Kashf al-Mahjub"
Monday, September 15, 2008
Your Lord Will be Unjust to No One...
The record of your deeds will be given to each of you.
And those of you who are sinners, will be horrified at what you read.
You will scream, and say: ‘I can hardly believe it! This book leaves out nothing; every action, both great and small, has been noted down.’
Yes, you will find an account of all that you have done.
Your Lord will be unjust to no one.
- Qur'an, Al-Kahf, Surah 18:49
And those of you who are sinners, will be horrified at what you read.
You will scream, and say: ‘I can hardly believe it! This book leaves out nothing; every action, both great and small, has been noted down.’
Yes, you will find an account of all that you have done.
Your Lord will be unjust to no one.
- Qur'an, Al-Kahf, Surah 18:49
How Forgiving is Allah....
A man went back to transgressing after he had sincerely asked forgiveness of God and swore never to sin again.
"How will God forgive me this time?" he asked in despair.
A heavenly voice responded, "You obeyed Me and I made amends for you, then you abandoned Me and I indulged you, and now that you returned to Me I shall receive you."
-Al-Hujwiri, "The Kashf al-Mahjub"
Many of the questions we get on Islamic cyber counseling have to do with this issue -- can Allah really be THAT forgiving? From what I have learned and experienced the key to fogiveness of course is sincere repentance. If we are truly sincere in our tawbah, then yes, Allah is that forgiving and more so, regardless of how many times we slip....
"How will God forgive me this time?" he asked in despair.
A heavenly voice responded, "You obeyed Me and I made amends for you, then you abandoned Me and I indulged you, and now that you returned to Me I shall receive you."
-Al-Hujwiri, "The Kashf al-Mahjub"
Many of the questions we get on Islamic cyber counseling have to do with this issue -- can Allah really be THAT forgiving? From what I have learned and experienced the key to fogiveness of course is sincere repentance. If we are truly sincere in our tawbah, then yes, Allah is that forgiving and more so, regardless of how many times we slip....
Monday, September 08, 2008
The Secrets of Prayer....
Prayer is that which enables the soul to realize its divinity.
Through prayer human beings worship absolute truth, and seek an eternal reward.
Prayer is the foundation-stone of religion; and religion is the means by which the soul is purified of all that pollutes it.
Prayer is the worship of the first cause of all things, the supreme ruler of all the world, the source of all strength.
Prayer is the adoration of the one whose being is necessary.
-Ibn Sina, “Kitab al-Najat”
Through prayer human beings worship absolute truth, and seek an eternal reward.
Prayer is the foundation-stone of religion; and religion is the means by which the soul is purified of all that pollutes it.
Prayer is the worship of the first cause of all things, the supreme ruler of all the world, the source of all strength.
Prayer is the adoration of the one whose being is necessary.
-Ibn Sina, “Kitab al-Najat”
Thursday, September 04, 2008
A Checklist for Ramadhan
1. Ask Allah to enable you to reach Ramadan and to get the most out of it as the Salaf (early generation of pious people) used to do.
2. Intend to fast every day with Iman and pure intention seeking the reward from Allah alone. The Prophet peace be upon him said, "Whoever fasts in Ramadan with Iman and seeking reward (from Allah) his past sins will be forgiven". (Bukhari)
3. Read the whole Qur'an at least once as the Prophet peace be upon him did.
4. Have Suhoor as the Prophet peace be upon him said, "Have Suhoor because it is blessed".
5. Make Du'a during the fast because the Prophet peace be upon him said that three people's supplication is not rejected one of them is the fasting person. Ask for the good of this life and the next for yourself, your family and Muslims in general.
6. Make Dua before opening the fast. The Prophet peace be upon him said, "The fasting person has a supplication that is answered when he opens his fast".
7. Give Sadaqah and be good to people. The Prophet peace be upon him was the most generous of people and he was most generous in Ramadan.
8. Avoid anything that diminishes the fast such as, lying, backbiting, cheating, getting angry. The Prophet peace be upon him said "Whoever does not give up false statements (i.e. telling lies), and evil deeds, and speaking bad words to others, Allah is not in need of his (fasting) leaving his food and drink." [Bukhari]
9. Do not eat too much after Iftar.
10. Ask for forgiveness since this is the month Allah frees people from the fire.
11. Pray At-Tarawih. If you pray in the Masjid complete the Salah with the Imam. If you pray at home prolong the Salah as long as you can. The Prophet peace be upon him said, "Whoever prays during Ramadan with Iman and seeking reward (from Allah) his past sins will be forgiven".
12. Feed the poor and invite others for Iftar. The Prophet peace be upon him said, "Whoever gives Iftar to someone fasting he will have the same reward without decreasing the reward of the person fasting".
13. Try harder the last ten nights especially the odd nights. The prophet would strive in Ramadan more than he would in any other month and more so in the last ten days.
14. Say this Dua in the nights that Laitul-Qadr is likely to fall on: Allhumma innaka afuwun tuhibbul-afwa fa'fu anni (O Allah you are Forgiving and love forgiveness so forgive me).
15. Ask Allah to accept all your good actions during this month."Oh you who believe, what is the matter with you that when you are asked to march forward in the cause of Allah you cling heavily to the earth. Are you pleased with the life of this world rather than the Hereafter but little is the enjoyment of the life of this world as compared with the Hereafter." -Al Quran 9.3
2. Intend to fast every day with Iman and pure intention seeking the reward from Allah alone. The Prophet peace be upon him said, "Whoever fasts in Ramadan with Iman and seeking reward (from Allah) his past sins will be forgiven". (Bukhari)
3. Read the whole Qur'an at least once as the Prophet peace be upon him did.
4. Have Suhoor as the Prophet peace be upon him said, "Have Suhoor because it is blessed".
5. Make Du'a during the fast because the Prophet peace be upon him said that three people's supplication is not rejected one of them is the fasting person. Ask for the good of this life and the next for yourself, your family and Muslims in general.
6. Make Dua before opening the fast. The Prophet peace be upon him said, "The fasting person has a supplication that is answered when he opens his fast".
7. Give Sadaqah and be good to people. The Prophet peace be upon him was the most generous of people and he was most generous in Ramadan.
8. Avoid anything that diminishes the fast such as, lying, backbiting, cheating, getting angry. The Prophet peace be upon him said "Whoever does not give up false statements (i.e. telling lies), and evil deeds, and speaking bad words to others, Allah is not in need of his (fasting) leaving his food and drink." [Bukhari]
9. Do not eat too much after Iftar.
10. Ask for forgiveness since this is the month Allah frees people from the fire.
11. Pray At-Tarawih. If you pray in the Masjid complete the Salah with the Imam. If you pray at home prolong the Salah as long as you can. The Prophet peace be upon him said, "Whoever prays during Ramadan with Iman and seeking reward (from Allah) his past sins will be forgiven".
12. Feed the poor and invite others for Iftar. The Prophet peace be upon him said, "Whoever gives Iftar to someone fasting he will have the same reward without decreasing the reward of the person fasting".
13. Try harder the last ten nights especially the odd nights. The prophet would strive in Ramadan more than he would in any other month and more so in the last ten days.
14. Say this Dua in the nights that Laitul-Qadr is likely to fall on: Allhumma innaka afuwun tuhibbul-afwa fa'fu anni (O Allah you are Forgiving and love forgiveness so forgive me).
15. Ask Allah to accept all your good actions during this month."Oh you who believe, what is the matter with you that when you are asked to march forward in the cause of Allah you cling heavily to the earth. Are you pleased with the life of this world rather than the Hereafter but little is the enjoyment of the life of this world as compared with the Hereafter." -Al Quran 9.3
Wednesday, September 03, 2008
Stand Up in Prayer at Night...
Listen, stand up in prayer during the night*,
for you are a candle,
and at night a candle stands and burns.
*Qur'an: Surah Al-Muzzamil (The Enwrapped One), 73:20
-Rumi, Mathnawi [IV, 1456]
for you are a candle,
and at night a candle stands and burns.
*Qur'an: Surah Al-Muzzamil (The Enwrapped One), 73:20
-Rumi, Mathnawi [IV, 1456]
Tuesday, September 02, 2008
The Month of Mercy has Arrived...
Ramadan is the (month) in which was sent down the Qur'an, as a guide to mankind, also clear (Signs) for guidance and judgment (Between right and wrong). So every one of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting, but if any one is ill, or on a journey, the prescribed period (Should be made up) by days later. Allah intends every facility for you; He does not want to put to difficulties. (He wants you) to complete the prescribed period, and to glorify Him in that He has guided you; and perchance ye shall be grateful.
-Qur'an, Al-Baqara, 2:185
-Qur'an, Al-Baqara, 2:185
Monday, August 25, 2008
How Just is the World...
I never saw anyone as just as the world.
As long as you pursue the world it will pursue you,
but when you turn away from it and seek God,
it will leave you alone and its glamour shall no longer fascinate you.
-Al-Hujwiri, "The Kashf al-Mahjub"
As long as you pursue the world it will pursue you,
but when you turn away from it and seek God,
it will leave you alone and its glamour shall no longer fascinate you.
-Al-Hujwiri, "The Kashf al-Mahjub"
Thursday, August 21, 2008
God is Incomparable....
In order to think about God, you may compare him with other beings;
but remember that he is incomparable.
In this way you will live in the house of truth.
-Ibn Arabi, “Fusus al-hikam”
but remember that he is incomparable.
In this way you will live in the house of truth.
-Ibn Arabi, “Fusus al-hikam”
Monday, August 18, 2008
Thursday, August 14, 2008
The Supreme Being...
God, the supreme being, is neither circumscribed by space, nor touched by time;
he cannot be found in a particular direction, and his essence cannot change.
The secret conversation is thus entirely spiritual;
it is a direct encounter between God and the soul, abstracted from all material constraints.
-Ibn Sina, "Kitab al-Najat"
he cannot be found in a particular direction, and his essence cannot change.
The secret conversation is thus entirely spiritual;
it is a direct encounter between God and the soul, abstracted from all material constraints.
-Ibn Sina, "Kitab al-Najat"
Monday, August 11, 2008
He is Boundless....
Do not think of God as isolated from his creation.
Do not think of God as bound by rules.
Do not compare God with any other entity.
Beware of thinking of God as remote.
You are not God; and you are God.
You see him in the essences of all things; yet he is boundless.
-Ibn Arabi, "Fusus al-hikam"
Do not think of God as bound by rules.
Do not compare God with any other entity.
Beware of thinking of God as remote.
You are not God; and you are God.
You see him in the essences of all things; yet he is boundless.
-Ibn Arabi, "Fusus al-hikam"
Seek from God...
Seek what you wish from God, not from men.
Be satisfied in joy; there is honor therein.
On friends and relatives be not a burden.
Rich is he who hopes from God, not from men.
-Al-Ghazzali, "Ihya Ulum Id-Din"
Be satisfied in joy; there is honor therein.
On friends and relatives be not a burden.
Rich is he who hopes from God, not from men.
-Al-Ghazzali, "Ihya Ulum Id-Din"
Monday, August 04, 2008
Advice for Muslim Parents
KEEPING MUSLIM TEENS MUSLIM
22 Tips for Parents
What does it take for parents to get a teen to become a practicing Muslim? Sound Vision has talked to parents, Imams, activists and Muslims who have grown up in the West to ask what are some practical things parents can do to help Muslim teens maintain their Deen. These are some of their suggestions:
Tip #1: Take parenting more seriously than you would a full-time job
This means both parents must understand their children are a trust from Allah, and He will ask how they were raised. If the children do not grow up practicing Islam because of their parents' negligence, it is not going to be pretty in this life or the next.
Tip #2:Reduce or change work hours and exchange them for time with the family
It is better to have one full-time job, fewer luxuries in the house (i.e. more cars, expensive clothes, a bigger, fancier home) and more time with the family, than many material things and absent parents. This goes for mothers AND fathers. Parents can't instill values in their children if they just aren't there, period. Quit that extra job on the weekends or in the evenings and instead drive the kids to the mosque for Halaqas and activities instead. Or consider switching shifts at work so that you're home when the kids are.
Tip #3: Read the Quran, understanding its meaning, for five minutes every day
Just five minutes. Whether it's in the car during a traffic jam, early morning after Fajr, or right before you go to bed, read the Quran with a translation and/or Tafseer. Then watch the snowball effect. You will, Insha Allah, reconnect with Allah, and in the long run, develop into a role model helping your whole family, not just your teen, reconnect with Him too.
Tip #4: Attend a weekly Halaqa
Trade playing cards or watching television on Sunday afternoons for a Halaqa. If you don't have something already in place during that time slot, help the Imam to set one up. Attend it vigilantly. The added bonus of this is that when children see their parents striving to learn about Islam, they will in many cases be encouraged to do the same.
Tip #5: Respect your teen
Respecting your teen means not treating them like inept babies, but like maturing adults, not talking down to them or humiliating and insulting them. It means involving them in useful activities around the home and seeking their opinions on matters of importance.
Tip #6: Take an interest in what they do
Does Noor play hockey in an all-girls' sports league? Attend Noor's games as regularly as possible. Does Ihsan collect stamps? See if you can find old letters from your parents in Malaysia or Lebanon and pass the stamps on them to her. Does Muhsin love building websites? Visit his site, post a congratulatory e-mail on the message board and offer some suggestions for the site. Give him a book on advanced web design as Eid gift.
Tip #7: Be aware of problems and address them straightforwardly
As you spend more time with your teen, you will be more able to sense if there is something bothering them. Don't brush this feeling under the carpet. Address it straight on. But don't do this in the family meeting or n in front of others. Do it during the next tip.
Tip #8: "Date" your teenager
While dating is commonly associated with boy-girl social meetings, the concept can be extended to any meeting between two people wanting to get to know each other better. It's especially important to "date" your children on an individual level once they hit their teens because they are no longer just "one of the kids". They are young adults who need attention and guidance on an individual level. You can go out on a "date" when Sumayya graduates from high school (instead of going to the prom), when Ahmed gets his driver's license or if you feel there is something bothering them and you want to address them alone.
Tip #9: Don't just be your teen's parent, be his or her partner
Making them a partner means giving them responsibilities within the family. Get 16 year old Amir, who just got his driver's license, to help his mom with grocery shopping on Saturday's; get 15 year old Jasmine, who loves flowers, to be responsible for the garden and mowing the lawn. This way, teens will feel a part of the family, included and needed.
Tip #10: Build a Masjid in your home
Delegate a room, part of the basement or the living room as the home Masjid. You can do this for less than $25. Make this Masjid entirely the responsibility of the kids. Get the eldest to be in charge and to delegate responsibilities for younger siblings. Responsibilities include keeping the Masjid clean, waking people up for Fajr, calling the Adhan, etc.
Tip #11: Don't practice "men's Islam"
That means don't exclude wives or daughters from prayers. When the men are praying in Jamaah, make sure the women are either behind them or also praying in congregation. Make sure the Imam recites the prayer loud enough for the women to hear if they are in another part of the house. Also, encourage women to pray in Jamaah if there are no men present.
Tip #12: Establish an Islamic library and choose a librarian
Equip your home with an Islamic library with books, video and audio cassettes about various aspects of Islam, catering to everyone's age and interests. If 13-year-old Bilal likes adventure novels, for example, make sure you have a couple of Islamic adventure books Get one of your teens to be the librarian. S/he keeps materials organized and in good condition. Any requests for materials to be added to the collection have to go through him or her. Give this librarian a monthly budget for ordering new books, cassettes, etc.
Tip#13: Take them out.....to Islamic activities
Instead of a fancy dinner at a restaurant, save your money to take everyone out to the next Muslim community dinner or activity. Make a special effort to go to events where other Muslim teens will be present and the speaker caters his/her message to this crowd. It's also important to regularly take Bilal and Humayra to Islamic camps and conferences where they will meet other Muslim kids their age on a larger scale.
Tip #14: Move to a racially and religiously mix neighborhood in your city
If your children can interact with Muslim as well as non-Muslim children on a daily basis, it is going to be healthier for their growth. May be a move closer to a masjid is going to help as well.
Tip #15 : Help teens start their own youth group
After living in a Muslim neighborhood and attending Islamic activities regularly, teens in many cases will develop a friendship with other Muslims their age. Don't let this end here.Help them establish a youth group, not just to learn about Islam, but to go to the amusement park together, go swimming, etc. Have meetings at members' houses on a weekly or bimonthly basis. Get this group involved in useful work like cleaning up litter around the Masjid or visiting senior citizens' homes.This group must have parental supervision, although teens' decision-making powers should not be interfered with unless really necessary.
Tip #16: Establish a TV-free evening and monitor TV watching in general
Parents' biggest competitor for their children's attention is the T.V. Sound Vision's unTV guide. Monitoring what everyone watches simply means taking care to remind and help everyone avoid shows which depict sex, violence and encourage unIslamic activities. Put up a list of acceptable and unacceptable shows on the wall beside the T.V. Establishing TV-free evenings means having one evening of the week when no one, adult, teen or child is allowed to watch television. Hopefully, this is a first step towards general TV reduction in the home. This is an ideal time to have the next tip.
Tip #17: Have weekly family meetings
The purpose: to find out what is going on in everyone's lives and to consult the family on important issues. Hanan started attending a Halaqa, Imran just returned from a Muslim youth camp, Bilal aced the last algebra test. The point is not to just give this news in point form. It's to elicit discussion and communication between everyone, and to keep up-to-date about what is going on in everyone's life, which gets harder when kids become teenagers.This is also the place to consult the family and decide on major issues affecting everyone: a move to another city; a marriage of one of the family members; difficulties with a bully in school, etc.Please note: Shura in the family does not mean a majority vote determines what to do about a situation. While the parents remain in charge, teens and younger children voice opinions and suggestions parents will consider in making a final decision about a matter.
Tip #18: Have "Halal Fun night" once a month
"Fun is Haram" is a joke sometimes heard amongst Muslim youth, mocking the attitude of some Muslims for whom virtually anything enjoyable is automatically labeled Haram (forbidden). Islamic entertainment is a much neglected area of Muslim concern. Islamic songs, skits, etc. are a viable tool for the transmission of Islam. Maybe 16-year-old Jameel knows how to play the Duff, while his sister Amira, 14, can write and sing well. Let them present their own Islamic song to the whole family. Or have 12-year-old Ridwan recite some of his best poetry. Make one of the teens in charge of this event. Help them establish a criteria of acceptable and unacceptable Halal entertainment.
Tip #19: Provide the right role models-What would Abu Bakr have done?
Apart from being a role model yourself by trying to practice Islam, make sure you provide teens with reading material about the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) and his Companions (Sahaba), both the men and the women. Otherwise, the characters on the programs your kids watch on television may become their "Sahabas". Discuss what a Companion may have done in a situation relevant to teens' lives. What would Abu Bakr Siddiq do if he saw a someone selling answers to the grade 11 math final exam? What would Aisha have done is she was confronted with the opportunity to cheat her parents?
Tip #20: Read books on Positive Parenting
These can be books written by Muslims, but even books by non-Muslims can help. However, just be ready and make sure you are able to identify what is Islamically acceptable versus what is not.
Tip #21: Get them married early
The societies of the West are permeated by sex: on TV, billboards, on the streets, buses, in movies, etc. A Muslim teenager facing this is in a tough position: succumb to the temptations or try really, really hard not to. Getting them married early (check out some tips for parents) will ease the pressure, and they don't have to stop their studies to do this. Remember, as a parent you will also be partly responsible if your son or daughter wanted to marry, you stopped them and they ended up having sex outside of marriage. You should also remember when undertaking this step not to force your son or daughter to marry someone they do not like.
Tip #22: Last but not least-Make Dua
Make Dua. It is really Allah who guides and misguides, but if you've done your job as a parent, Insha Allah, keeping your teen a practicing Muslim will be easier to do than if you had neglected this duty. As well, make Dua for your teen in front of them. This reminds them how much you love them and your concern for them.
- Soundvision.com
22 Tips for Parents
What does it take for parents to get a teen to become a practicing Muslim? Sound Vision has talked to parents, Imams, activists and Muslims who have grown up in the West to ask what are some practical things parents can do to help Muslim teens maintain their Deen. These are some of their suggestions:
Tip #1: Take parenting more seriously than you would a full-time job
This means both parents must understand their children are a trust from Allah, and He will ask how they were raised. If the children do not grow up practicing Islam because of their parents' negligence, it is not going to be pretty in this life or the next.
Tip #2:Reduce or change work hours and exchange them for time with the family
It is better to have one full-time job, fewer luxuries in the house (i.e. more cars, expensive clothes, a bigger, fancier home) and more time with the family, than many material things and absent parents. This goes for mothers AND fathers. Parents can't instill values in their children if they just aren't there, period. Quit that extra job on the weekends or in the evenings and instead drive the kids to the mosque for Halaqas and activities instead. Or consider switching shifts at work so that you're home when the kids are.
Tip #3: Read the Quran, understanding its meaning, for five minutes every day
Just five minutes. Whether it's in the car during a traffic jam, early morning after Fajr, or right before you go to bed, read the Quran with a translation and/or Tafseer. Then watch the snowball effect. You will, Insha Allah, reconnect with Allah, and in the long run, develop into a role model helping your whole family, not just your teen, reconnect with Him too.
Tip #4: Attend a weekly Halaqa
Trade playing cards or watching television on Sunday afternoons for a Halaqa. If you don't have something already in place during that time slot, help the Imam to set one up. Attend it vigilantly. The added bonus of this is that when children see their parents striving to learn about Islam, they will in many cases be encouraged to do the same.
Tip #5: Respect your teen
Respecting your teen means not treating them like inept babies, but like maturing adults, not talking down to them or humiliating and insulting them. It means involving them in useful activities around the home and seeking their opinions on matters of importance.
Tip #6: Take an interest in what they do
Does Noor play hockey in an all-girls' sports league? Attend Noor's games as regularly as possible. Does Ihsan collect stamps? See if you can find old letters from your parents in Malaysia or Lebanon and pass the stamps on them to her. Does Muhsin love building websites? Visit his site, post a congratulatory e-mail on the message board and offer some suggestions for the site. Give him a book on advanced web design as Eid gift.
Tip #7: Be aware of problems and address them straightforwardly
As you spend more time with your teen, you will be more able to sense if there is something bothering them. Don't brush this feeling under the carpet. Address it straight on. But don't do this in the family meeting or n in front of others. Do it during the next tip.
Tip #8: "Date" your teenager
While dating is commonly associated with boy-girl social meetings, the concept can be extended to any meeting between two people wanting to get to know each other better. It's especially important to "date" your children on an individual level once they hit their teens because they are no longer just "one of the kids". They are young adults who need attention and guidance on an individual level. You can go out on a "date" when Sumayya graduates from high school (instead of going to the prom), when Ahmed gets his driver's license or if you feel there is something bothering them and you want to address them alone.
Tip #9: Don't just be your teen's parent, be his or her partner
Making them a partner means giving them responsibilities within the family. Get 16 year old Amir, who just got his driver's license, to help his mom with grocery shopping on Saturday's; get 15 year old Jasmine, who loves flowers, to be responsible for the garden and mowing the lawn. This way, teens will feel a part of the family, included and needed.
Tip #10: Build a Masjid in your home
Delegate a room, part of the basement or the living room as the home Masjid. You can do this for less than $25. Make this Masjid entirely the responsibility of the kids. Get the eldest to be in charge and to delegate responsibilities for younger siblings. Responsibilities include keeping the Masjid clean, waking people up for Fajr, calling the Adhan, etc.
Tip #11: Don't practice "men's Islam"
That means don't exclude wives or daughters from prayers. When the men are praying in Jamaah, make sure the women are either behind them or also praying in congregation. Make sure the Imam recites the prayer loud enough for the women to hear if they are in another part of the house. Also, encourage women to pray in Jamaah if there are no men present.
Tip #12: Establish an Islamic library and choose a librarian
Equip your home with an Islamic library with books, video and audio cassettes about various aspects of Islam, catering to everyone's age and interests. If 13-year-old Bilal likes adventure novels, for example, make sure you have a couple of Islamic adventure books Get one of your teens to be the librarian. S/he keeps materials organized and in good condition. Any requests for materials to be added to the collection have to go through him or her. Give this librarian a monthly budget for ordering new books, cassettes, etc.
Tip#13: Take them out.....to Islamic activities
Instead of a fancy dinner at a restaurant, save your money to take everyone out to the next Muslim community dinner or activity. Make a special effort to go to events where other Muslim teens will be present and the speaker caters his/her message to this crowd. It's also important to regularly take Bilal and Humayra to Islamic camps and conferences where they will meet other Muslim kids their age on a larger scale.
Tip #14: Move to a racially and religiously mix neighborhood in your city
If your children can interact with Muslim as well as non-Muslim children on a daily basis, it is going to be healthier for their growth. May be a move closer to a masjid is going to help as well.
Tip #15 : Help teens start their own youth group
After living in a Muslim neighborhood and attending Islamic activities regularly, teens in many cases will develop a friendship with other Muslims their age. Don't let this end here.Help them establish a youth group, not just to learn about Islam, but to go to the amusement park together, go swimming, etc. Have meetings at members' houses on a weekly or bimonthly basis. Get this group involved in useful work like cleaning up litter around the Masjid or visiting senior citizens' homes.This group must have parental supervision, although teens' decision-making powers should not be interfered with unless really necessary.
Tip #16: Establish a TV-free evening and monitor TV watching in general
Parents' biggest competitor for their children's attention is the T.V. Sound Vision's unTV guide. Monitoring what everyone watches simply means taking care to remind and help everyone avoid shows which depict sex, violence and encourage unIslamic activities. Put up a list of acceptable and unacceptable shows on the wall beside the T.V. Establishing TV-free evenings means having one evening of the week when no one, adult, teen or child is allowed to watch television. Hopefully, this is a first step towards general TV reduction in the home. This is an ideal time to have the next tip.
Tip #17: Have weekly family meetings
The purpose: to find out what is going on in everyone's lives and to consult the family on important issues. Hanan started attending a Halaqa, Imran just returned from a Muslim youth camp, Bilal aced the last algebra test. The point is not to just give this news in point form. It's to elicit discussion and communication between everyone, and to keep up-to-date about what is going on in everyone's life, which gets harder when kids become teenagers.This is also the place to consult the family and decide on major issues affecting everyone: a move to another city; a marriage of one of the family members; difficulties with a bully in school, etc.Please note: Shura in the family does not mean a majority vote determines what to do about a situation. While the parents remain in charge, teens and younger children voice opinions and suggestions parents will consider in making a final decision about a matter.
Tip #18: Have "Halal Fun night" once a month
"Fun is Haram" is a joke sometimes heard amongst Muslim youth, mocking the attitude of some Muslims for whom virtually anything enjoyable is automatically labeled Haram (forbidden). Islamic entertainment is a much neglected area of Muslim concern. Islamic songs, skits, etc. are a viable tool for the transmission of Islam. Maybe 16-year-old Jameel knows how to play the Duff, while his sister Amira, 14, can write and sing well. Let them present their own Islamic song to the whole family. Or have 12-year-old Ridwan recite some of his best poetry. Make one of the teens in charge of this event. Help them establish a criteria of acceptable and unacceptable Halal entertainment.
Tip #19: Provide the right role models-What would Abu Bakr have done?
Apart from being a role model yourself by trying to practice Islam, make sure you provide teens with reading material about the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) and his Companions (Sahaba), both the men and the women. Otherwise, the characters on the programs your kids watch on television may become their "Sahabas". Discuss what a Companion may have done in a situation relevant to teens' lives. What would Abu Bakr Siddiq do if he saw a someone selling answers to the grade 11 math final exam? What would Aisha have done is she was confronted with the opportunity to cheat her parents?
Tip #20: Read books on Positive Parenting
These can be books written by Muslims, but even books by non-Muslims can help. However, just be ready and make sure you are able to identify what is Islamically acceptable versus what is not.
Tip #21: Get them married early
The societies of the West are permeated by sex: on TV, billboards, on the streets, buses, in movies, etc. A Muslim teenager facing this is in a tough position: succumb to the temptations or try really, really hard not to. Getting them married early (check out some tips for parents) will ease the pressure, and they don't have to stop their studies to do this. Remember, as a parent you will also be partly responsible if your son or daughter wanted to marry, you stopped them and they ended up having sex outside of marriage. You should also remember when undertaking this step not to force your son or daughter to marry someone they do not like.
Tip #22: Last but not least-Make Dua
Make Dua. It is really Allah who guides and misguides, but if you've done your job as a parent, Insha Allah, keeping your teen a practicing Muslim will be easier to do than if you had neglected this duty. As well, make Dua for your teen in front of them. This reminds them how much you love them and your concern for them.
- Soundvision.com
Wednesday, July 30, 2008
The Purpose of Islam is to Teach Humanity Unity
The purpose of Islam is to teach humanity unity. It begins
with the unity of our Lord, that we unify Him in our understanding
and associate nothing with Him. The renowned theologian and
heresiologist, Imam Abu Ishaq al-Isfarayini (d. 418/1027) remarked
that, “All what theologians have said concerning the unity of God
can be summed up in two statements: first, God is other than any
concept that comes to mind. Second, while the essence of God
is utterly unlike other essences, it is, nonetheless, not devoid of
attributes.”
- Sh. Hamza Yusuf
with the unity of our Lord, that we unify Him in our understanding
and associate nothing with Him. The renowned theologian and
heresiologist, Imam Abu Ishaq al-Isfarayini (d. 418/1027) remarked
that, “All what theologians have said concerning the unity of God
can be summed up in two statements: first, God is other than any
concept that comes to mind. Second, while the essence of God
is utterly unlike other essences, it is, nonetheless, not devoid of
attributes.”
- Sh. Hamza Yusuf
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