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When searching and applying for jobs not only do we look at the Job Specification but also consider other factors which it involves. We look at things such as travelling time, distance from home, fuel costs, salary etc. and then weigh out the options. We will travel further if the salary was to be better even after taking out the cost of the commute. However this would mean we have to make the sacrifices, such as leaving the home earlier and returning later. This would mean we will have less time with our family and loved ones. But we will say— ‘The pays better, it's worth it’. In the same way if a person was to be offered a job of £1 an hour working from home or £25 an hour commuting a short distance to a place of work, which one would they prefer? I know what I would choose. I would choose the £25 per hour job. Everyone who is able to commute will also gladly accept the £25 per hour offer. After all, what's a small sacrifice if its going to pay you better. That's the deal and investment for the Hereafter which Allah has offered us. A person who offers their Salaah at home will only get 1 reward, however the one who goes to the Masjid and offers the prayer their will get 25 to 27 times more rewards! Unfortunately, many of us have decided to earn less when it comes to the matters of the hereafter and seek more for this temporary life. Allah will grant us something great in Jannah (Paradise) for each and every good deed that we perform in this world. So should we not put more effort in decorating our Jannah than decorating our homes in this world. May Allah give us the ability to pray our Salaah in congregation. (Ameen) INSIDE THIS ISSUE... Haazim, a Palestinian reviver of Islam in South America 06 Heartfelt Speech 07 The Majlis of Mufti Moosa 08-09 Badat (D.B.) Virtues of Fajr Salaah 10 Time for Change 11 Inspirational Talk 12 Q& A 13 Modesty 14 Repentance of Maalik Bin Dinar 15 The Sweetness of Patience 16 17-18 Kids Zone Urdu Page 20 Al-Islah contains sacred verses of the Holy Qur’an and the Ahaadith of the Prophet . Please ensure its sanctity. Check the Latest Mehre Faatimi & Zakaat Prices Online: www.rabetah.org Mehre Faatimi £640.04 * Nisaab of Zakaat £254.52 * Al-Islah is distributed for free but can be subscribed for an annual fee of £10.00 (incl p&p for 6 issues) Send in your name & address with a cheque payable to ‘Rabetah’ to the address below. * Figures are correct on 21st October 2014, Please note the above amount changes daily... Al-Islah is published bi-monthly by Rabetah Al-Ulama Al-lslamiyyah Views expressed are those of the contributors and not necessarily of Rabetah Editor: Al-Islah Team Published & Distributed by: Rabetah Al-Ulama Al-lslamiyyah Correspondence is welcomed and should be addressed to the Al -Islah Team Al-Islah Publication, 13 Wayne Close, Batley, West Yorkshire, WF17 0EU Email: [email protected] Issue 56 04-05 Muharram Subscribe to Al-Islah Please Pass On To Others after Reading 02-03 Invaluable Services Website: www.rabetah.org Kids Website: www.alislahkids.com Al-Islah-Publication Al_Islah Alislahproduction This magazine is available online for download at www. rabetah.org/all-islah-magazine www.rabetah.org Nov / Dec 2014 Invaluable Services Service to community, society and nation is the true essence of Islam. It is a noble sentiment and principled passion that is an embedded characteristic of every Muslim. Rendering services, whether individually, collectively or through public or private organisations, should be available to all, regardless of income. Public services such as health, education, transport, housing, social care, law enforcement etc. are amenities that we take for granted but are integral part of ensuring the wellbeing and security of every individual in society. Hence, we should appreciate the values of and merits of public services and if possible engage in services that help and assist others. TheProphet said:"Verily,Allah,theExalted,and Glorious will say on the Day of Resurrection: 'O son of Adam, I was ill but you did not visit Me.' He would say: 'O my Lord, how could I visit you when You are the Lord of the worlds?' Thereupon He would say: 'Did you not know that such and such a slave of Mine was ill but you did not visit him? Did you not realize that if you had visited him (you would have known that I was aware of your visit to him, for which I would reward you) you would have found Me with him?” (Muslim) Visiting the sick is such a meritorious act that Allah expresses disappointment with those who fail to fulfil this noble deed. Thus, what must be the act of those who are constantly assisting the needy and the sick, irrespective of being remunerated for their services? The concept of the NHS which is the envy of many nations, providing health care ‘free at the point of use’ for all UK citizens and legal migrants epitomises the culture and ethos of mercy and compassion that is intrinsic to Islam. The Prophet Muhammad said: “Allah is not merciful to the one who does not show mercy to mankind.” (Tabrani) Therefore, healthcare service is 2 Issue 56 By Maulana Aslam Seedat a worthy cause that we should encourage more Muslims to engage in as part of our obligations and beliefs. In addition, the Prophet Muhammad said: “Every day when the sun rises, charity is incumbent upon every human limb. Resolving dispute between two with justice is charity, helping a person to mount a camel or loading his baggage for him is charity, every step taken towards a mosque is charity, and removing anything from a roadway that causes an inconvenience is also charity.” (Tirmidhi) All the above scenarios are commendable and praiseworthy deeds because they serve to assist those in need and vulnerable. It may be considered mundane and ordinary acts for some but for a Muslim it is necessary and a requisite. Social care in the form of assisting the elderly and the vulnerable, arbitrary services and household waste collections are phrases that come to mind and one can deduce it from the above hadith. This illustrates the emphasis the Prophet Muhammad placed on community work which we sometimes unappreciatively perceive with disdain. Another noble service which is a well-established concept in Islam is foster caring. The most famous orphan in Islam is our beloved Prophet Muhammad . His father died even before his birth and his mother and grandfather had died by the time he had reached eight years of age. In addition, he was given a slave by his wife Khadija whom he subsequently freed and raised as his own son. This illustrated the nature of our Prophet who instinctively understood the plight of the orphans better than anyone as he was brought up as one himself. His teachings demonstrates the importance Islam places on taking homeless and vulnerable children into care and offering them the Islamic www.rabetah.org Nov / Dec 2014 environment which otherwise many Muslim children are deprived of. This is an undervalued service that we continue to neglect without realizing that many Muslim children in the UK and abroad are being taken into non-Muslim homes that are totally unconducive to their beliefs and moral standards. Thus, this particular commendable service should be at the forefront of our minds and greater emphasis placed on proactively engaging with the appropriate public bodies such as social services to ensure Muslim foster carers are available to provide the support and help for the vulnerable children. In conclusion, there are many praiseworthy public and community services that are integral to us, which we underestimate and take their significance very lightly. However, Islam has always considered their relevance because they epitomise the kindness, compassion and sympathy that we should have for those in need. Thus, sometimes the cynicism and indifference towards the political motives of governments and political parties on the WRITE IT issue of public services distort the merits of and values of serving a community and society when it’s muddled with public finance. Nevertheless, regardless of our political affiliation or apathy towards it, the importance of public services must not be undervalued or underestimated. We are constantly benefiting from it whether it’s through health, education, social services or law enforcement or others. Thus, remaining on the fringe of the public services and its debate or distancing from it completely only serves to forego our responsibility that we should all be at the heart of helping and assisting others. We should be at the forefront of the debate and remain proactive in some form of public services, voluntary or nonvoluntary. Additionally, we must thank Allah for bestowing us these services and acknowledge those government bodies and the relevant organisations for delivering the services that we all benefit from. The Prophet Muhammad famously said, "Whoever is not grateful to the people, he is not grateful to Allah." (Tirmidhi) DOWN Hadhrat Mufti Shafi' 'Uthmani Sahib (ra) says that once while he was walking with Hadhrat Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (ra) to his house, Hadhrat took out a pencil and paper, wrote something down, and replaced it in his pocket. He then addressed Mufti Shafi' Sahib (ra), “Mufti Sahib, what have I just done?” Hadhrat Mufti Sahib (ra) replied, “Hadhrat you took out a pencil and paper, jotted down something and replaced it in your pocket.” Hadhrat Thanwi (ra) then drew Mufti Sahib’s attention to and pointed out the wisdom of his action, he said, “Something was repeatedly coming to mind and the apprehension that I may forget it caused my heart to be totally absorbed by it.” “Having written it down, I have removed the weight that bore so heavily on my heart, vacating my heart for Allah .” Hubb-e-Ilahi Issue 56 www.rabetah.org Nov / Dec 2014 3 Haazim, a Palestinian reviver of Islam in South America Subhanallah! A South African Jamaat visits the region, invites the Muslims of the area to Allah, and the entire life trajectory of this family changes. This young boy, Haazim, develops a soft spot for the visitors and begins to serve them This Ramadan, Cii Radio’s Mufti AK Hoosen enthusiastically. It is becoming clear that embarked on a multi-country tour of South Allah has destined that he be a means of America, inspecting the Islamic infrastructure Hidayah for thousands of people. in various regions and offering He associates himself with the ideals encouragement to numerous South African championed by the Tableegh Jamaat, and Ulama who have settled in the region. almost immediately draws flak from his own Ruminating on a touching encounter he had blood. They oppose his affiliation to the in Venezuela, Mufti AK Hoosen shared the Jamaat totally. Matters deteriorate so badly following inspirational story about Haazim, a that Haazim is disowned. young Palestinian immigrant whose sincere efforts for Deen have significantly transformed the Islamic landscape of the continent: Yet, the young man remains steadfast as a rock. He fends for himself and matures. He sells the lone car that is still registered on his name to raise capital for a journey he is Haazim was a young Palestinian brother, thirsting to undertake. He heads of to the whose family settled in South America Indian subcontinent to immerse himself in the decades ago. The family was very affluent work and learn the principles of Tableegh. but also far estranged from the practices of On his return to Venezuela, fountains of Islam. Allah endowed them with wealth you Divine Blessing begin showering upon him. cannot dream of. They literally own an entire He is selected to represent his country at the fleet of private jets and aeroplanes. International Qur’an Memorization 4 Issue 56 www.rabetah.org Nov / Dec 2014 Competition in Makkah, even though he is not a Haafidh. He is judged to be the most knowledgeable youngster in Qur’an in the entire nation. In Makkah, Allah honours him with an opportunity to enter the Ka’bah even though he is barely 20. His parents and siblings are ashamed: We opposed our son, but just look how bitterly people are mourning his departure. Look how much honour he has managed to garner. There is a secret, as yet unrevealed. His wife is pregnant, but she intended to disclose the good news to him en route to the wedding after Isha. of lofty ideals set into blaze by their beloved father. The family experiences a re-awakening. They now follow in Haazim’s footsteps and All the while, Haazim’s relationship with his also align themselves enthusiastically with the work of Tableegh. Their entire fleet of family remains rocky. private jets and coffers of wealth are put at Haazim gets married. Soon, his wife gives the service of the Deen. birth to a baby girl, Maryam. One youngster makes so much sacrifice that Haazim is recognised across Venezuela as today South America – Brazil, Argentina, the livewire of the effort of Tableegh. His Venezuela and other countries – is dotted stature is magnified because of his with Madaaris and Islamic Institutes bearing association with an Haazim’s name. influential and affluent One youngster makes so much During my visit, I went to immigrant family. the graveyard where sacrifice that today South Then, one day, Haazim Haazim is buried and made inexplicably prepares a America – Brazil, Argentina, special Dua for this copy of his will. There Venezuela and other countries – distinguished Da’ee. All the is a Nikah in the family, graves surrounding his is dotted with Madaaris and which his wife requests sported huge tombstones to attend. He agrees to Islamic Institutes bearing and memorials, but his was take her there after he totally unmarked. So Haazim’s name. performs Isha. simple. You could feel it, that this man was specially On his way to the Masjid – the Jamiah Masjid in Valencia – as accepted by Allah , Insha Allah. Allah decrees, Haazim meets up in an Haazim’s wife gave birth, and young accident. Just 26 years old, and his soul is Mohammad and Maryam together with their reunited with his Rabb. mother, today continue holding aloft the torch You must imagine, it could never have been easy for a young man with no feet to stand For one half of his life, he was Ma’soom on, to confront the pressure of his entire (innocent), and from the age of 13 he was in extended family. It would have been the path of Allah, propagating and teaching immensely difficult. But Haazim was sincere, he had Istiqamah (steadfastness), and hence the Deen. became Maqbool (accepted) by Allah . Haazim is honoured further with the death of a martyr. Thousands of people flock to his We make Dua, Allah also makes us funeral and send condolences from all parts Khaadims (Servants) of His Blessed Deen. of South America. Many attest to having Aameen learnt so much about the Deen from this young warrior. Issue 56 www.rabetah.org Nov / Dec 2014 5 MUHARRAM With the sighting of the new moon the Islamic New Year is ushered in. The first month Muharram, is a month of great reward and virtue. Muharram itself means `sacred' and is from those months which have been mentioned as sacred in the Holy Qur’an. Allah states in the Holy Qur’an: "Four of them ( Zil-Qadah, Zil-Hijjah, Muharram and Rajab) are sacred." (Tawbah:36) From out of the four sacred months, Muharram has been blessed with certain specific virtues. Rasulullah said: "The best of fasts besides the month of Ramadhan is the fasting of Allah's month of Muharram." (Muslim) "The one that keeps a fast in the month of Muharram will receive the reward of thirty fasts for each fast (in this sacred month)." (Tabrani) Although the fasts of the month of Muharram are not obligatory, the one who fasts in these days out of his own will and choice is entitled to a great reward by Almighty Allah. THE DAY OF AASHURAH (10th Muharram) Although the month of Muharram is a sacred month as a whole, the 10th of Muharram is the most sacred among all its days. The day is named 'Aashurah'. It is one of the most important and blessed days of Allah in the Islamic calendar. FASTING The Prophet has exhorted and encouraged his Ummah to fast on this day. He said: "This fast is a compensation for the (minor) sins of the past year." (Muslim) It is important to either fast on the ninth and the tenth or the tenth and the eleventh of Muharram. To fast only on the day of Aashurah is Makrooh (undesirable). BEING GENEROUS One should be generous on one's family and dependants and spend more on them than what is normally spent. Rasulullah said: "One who generously spends on his family on the day of Aashurah, Allah will increase (his provision) for the whole year." (Baihaqi) These are the actions supported by Ahadith. Let us observe this great day according to the ways of Rasulullah and the Sahabah , and refrain from all innovations which deprive us of the blessings from Almighty Allah. May Allah guide us all upon the straight path and save us from every act which brings His displeasure. Ameen. Golden Advice of Hadhrat Hassan Al Basri (RA) Someone asked Hassan Al Basri (RA) “What is the secret of your piety?” He replied, “I understood 4 things: 1. I understood my RIZQ (sustenance) cannot be taken by anyone so my heart is contended. 2. I understood no one can do my actions. (worship) so I started doing them myself. 3. I understood Allah is watching me, so I felt shame to do wrong. 4. I understood death is waiting for me so I started to prepare for my meeting with Allah . We as Muslims should implement these 4 points into our lives to be successful in life & the afterlife Insha Allah... 6 54 Issue 56 www.rabetah.org July / August 2014 Nov / Dec 2014 Heartfelt Speech This is the English translation of Honourable Moulana Muhammad Yusuf Khandhelvi’s speech in Urdu. The Head of Tableegh, Honourable Moulana Muhammad Yusuf Khandhelvi, known as Hadhrat Jee (May Allah have mercy on him), delivered a speech forty nine years ago; just three days before he passed away. The date of the speech was Tuesday 30th March 1965 after Fajar Salaah in Raiwand, Pakistan. After reciting the traditional Sunnah sermon in Arabic he said, “Look, my health is not good. All night I could not sleep. Even though I am not well, I feel it is vital to convey this message. Whoever understands it and practices upon it then Allah will honour him, otherwise he will certainly regret it.” “This Ummah has come into being after great difficulties. Our Prophet and the noble Sahabah underwent great difficulties to make it into one Ummah. The people who dislike the unity of this Ummah have always tried hard to divide and totally dismantle it. (They have succeeded and) Now the Muslims have lost their quality and their identity of being one and united. When they were 'One Ummah', a few hundred thousand people ruled the world. Different countries, different languages and different tribes had become one Ummah. When this Ummah arose and spread out in the world, country after country accepted their message. This Ummah was formed in such a manner that not a single person was arrogant and egotistical about their family, tribe, party, city, country or language. They did not give preference to wealth, property or family, rather each individual admired the orders of Allah and the teachings of His Prophet and gave preference to it.” “An Ummah is only formed when all other relationships and connections are not given preference over the orders of Allah and the teachings of His Prophet . “Ummah is not a name given for people from one tribe or people living in the same country. In fact, an Ummah consists of thousands of tribes and countries, all connected. Whoever deems his tribe or country to be better than other tribes and countries, then he is breaking up the Ummah. Firstly, we have crushed the Ummah by creating divisions. Thereafter, others have split the Ummah. If Muslims were to become One Ummah again then even if all the powers in the world got together to overpower it, they would not be able to defeat it. However, if they continue to split the Ummah on the basis of tribe and country then, I swear in the name of Allah’s, your weapons and armies will not be able to save you and protect you.” Issue 56 “Muslims are humiliated and killed throughout the world because they have abolished the notion of One Ummah and they have forgotten the sacrifices of Prophet . I am telling you the worries that are in my heart. All the destruction is because this Ummah has not remained an Ummah; In fact, we have forgotten what an Ummah is and how the Prophet made the Ummah.” “It is not sufficient for the Muslim Ummah to gain Allah’s help that they only have knowledge from the Madrasah. The murderer of Hadhrat Ali , Ibn Muljim, was so punctual with his Salaah and with the remembrance of Allah (Zikr) that when angry people surrounded him after his killing of Ali to cut off his tongue that he said that do whatever you want with me but do not cut off my tongue so that I can continue to remember Allah (do Zikr) until my last breath. Although he was so consistent with the remembrance of Allah, despite that the Prophet said that the murderer of Hadhrat Ali is the most wretched and disgraceful person of my Ummah. Abul Fadhl Faydhy had also gained knowledge from a Madrasah. He was such an expert that he wrote a commentary of the Holy Qur’an in Arabic language only using those Arabic letters that have no dots. Despite this, he was the very person who ill-advised the King Akbar and defamed the Deen of Allah. So how can the knowledge of Madrasah that Ibn Muljim and Abul Fadhl had be enough for becoming One Ummah and for receiving Allah’s unseen help?” “Remember perfectly! the notion of My tribe, my country, my family, my party, all these views are destroying the Ummah. Allah really dislikes this. Whoever breaks the bond of Ummah due to the partisanship to a tribe or country, then Allah will destroy him.” “Ummah will only be created if we, without any rivalry and division, join this effort of Tableegh. Ummah will be created by improving transactions, refining social dealings, fulfilling the rights of people and by helping others. Everyone’s effort should be that there is mutual connection, not detachment. Everyone’s effort should be that we safeguard our tongue. Today, there is huge effort taking place for breaking the bond of the Ummah. The remedy for this is that we do the work of our Prophet and bring people closer to the House of Allah. We talk about Iman, we do Taleem and we do the Zikr of Allah. May Allah give us the ability, capability and the opportunity to bring this into practice, Ameen.” www.rabetah.org Nov / Dec 2014 7 From The Majlis of Mufti Moosa Badat (D.B.) On 24.08.14 on Nisbat Translated from Urdu by Brother Zameer Dabhad Reading from Mariful Hadith by Maulana Manzoor Nomani (RA) - PART 1 As many will know, this is that book of Hadith where the respected Moulana in an easy form has collected all the relevant Hadith commencing from Kitabul Iman and ending at total deen and complete Shariah, in total there are 7-8 parts. The purpose of Tasawwuf we hear again and again is to acquire the love of Allah and his Messenger and along with this is that we develop ikhlas (sincerity) in our actions, Kaifiat (state), Ta’luk (connection) with Allah, all these are important parts of Tasawwuf. These purposes and goals are not against the principles of Qur’an and Hadith and are in fact corroborated by Qur’an and Hadith. Allah makes mention here of the qualities of the believers and describes who the believers are. Verily the believers are those that when Allah is remembered (i.e. the name of Allah is mentioned) their hearts tremble due to the awe and majesty of Allah, and when the ayats of Allah are read to them their Iman increases, (this is the kaifiat that we refer to i.e. Iman is increased), and they place their reliance in their Lord. (Surah 8. Al-Anfal, Ayah 2) At various places within the Holy Qur’an you will find They call unto their Lord with fear and hope (Surah 32. Sajdah, Ayah 16) These are the qualities that a believer possesses If you study the Qur’an then you will find many ayaats relating to turning attention towards Allah , adopting the fear of Allah and developing concentration in worship, similarly many Hadith will be found regarding this. All these are the purposes and aims of Tasawwuf and are not new innovations, in fact many of the great Arab scholars such us Ibn Taymiyyah, Allama Ibn Qayyim, and Ibn Rajab al Hanbali RA, you will find that their books are full of these purposes and that they agreed to these aims. found, as a result of which I decided that in today’s Majlis I will read these. Moulana (RA) has compiled a chapter on Iman. Signs and fruits of Iman It is related by Hazrat Abu Umama narrates: that a personaskedNabi what is Faith?” Nabirepliedwhen your good actions please you (i.e. through your good deed you have happiness in your heart) and when you have regret over your bad actions (i.e. when you happen to commit a sin then you feel sorrow and sadness) then know that you are a truthful believer. (Ahmed) Moulana now explains that Iman has specific signs amongst which one is that when a good deed is done by a person then in his heart he should experience joy and happiness and when a sin is committed there should be remorse and sadness. Until this feeling remains within a person’s conscience then understand that the spirit of Iman is alive within that individual, and having this realisation is the fruit of this Iman. When a person has the above state then that person should know that he is in possession of Iman Alhamdulillah. That is why Hazrat Moulana Ilyas (RA) started that effort whereby at the least a realisation is created within the Ummah, when the realisation is created then this will be followed by actions. Only when the awareness is present will a person be able to differentiate that this is a good deed and this is a bad deed and at the same time he will be able to experience happiness at times of good deeds along with sorrow at times of bad deeds. Pre-requisites of Iman It is related by Hazrat Abbas Ibn Abdul Mutalib that he heardfrom Nabi “He hastastedtheflavour ofFaithand experienced its sweetness who is pleased with Allah as his Lord, Islam ashisReligionandacceptsMuhammad ashis messenger and guide”. (Muslim) That is why we have the morning and evening dua ًّسول ِ َرضِ يتُ ِب ه ُ اَّلل َر ًّبا َو ِباإلِ ْسالَ ِم دِي ًّنا َو ِب ُم َح هم ٍد َن ِب ًّيا َو َر Radeetu bilahi rabaa, wa bil islami deena wa bi muhamdin nabiyaa wa rasula Today I was studying a Hadith and these very points I 8 Issue 56 www.rabetah.org Nov / Dec 2014 In the commentary Moulana explains; Just as all delicious foods possess a flavour, but it can be perceived only when one’s ability to taste has not been lost or become affected due to illness or any other cause. For example you have a halwa which is sweet e.g. habshi halwa is extremely sweet and has a specific enjoyment, you have Indian mithai which has a specific flavour and taste, but only those individuals can enjoy the taste whose ability to taste has not been damaged due to illness. Otherwise, if a person’s ability to taste has been affected by illness he will find that even habshi halwa will taste bitter along with the Indian mithai. Everything will taste bitter to the ill person who has a fever for as long as it remains within them. You find certain individuals who complain that I don’t feel like eating anything or nothing tastes good, what is this? He is unwell, his ability to taste has deteriorated. There is also a special sweetness in Faith which can be enjoyed by those alone who have, willingly and earnestly, made Allah their Lord and Master, (which is why Zikr of La ilaha ilallah and Allah Allah is done so that a special connection with Allah is developed and the sweetness of Zikr is enjoyed), they also accept Muhammad as their prophet and guide, Islam as their religion and way of life, and whose hearts have bowed in submission to Allah and yielded in obedience to the Prophet and assented to be the adherents of the path of Islam. In other words, their bond with Allah, the Prophet and Islam is not merely formal, hereditary or intellectual but is in fact real, sincere, genuine and from the depth of the heart he is pleased with Allah as his Lord. That is why any situation that comes upon that Individual, he realises that it is from Allah and subsequently there is no difference in the state of his heart... Sunnats When A Child Is Born From the book- Beautiful Sunnah of Beloved Nabi By: Shaikh ul Arab wal Ajam Hazrat Maulana Shah Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb (ra) 1. To give azaan in the right ear and iqaamah in the left ear after the child is born. (Tirmidhi- chapter-- Vol.1, Alaikum Bisunnati, Abu Dawood, pg. 340) 2. To give a suitable name to the child on the seventh day. (Abu Dawood) 3. To make aqeeqah on the seventh day. (Abu Dawood) If it cannot be done on the seventh day, it should be done on the fourteenth or the 21st day. 4. The head of the baby should be shaved and silver equal to the weight of the hair should be given in charity. (Tirmidhi) 5. Saffron should be put on the head after it has been shaved. (Abu Dawood) 6. Two male goats should be slaughtered for the aqeeqah of a boy and one male goat or female goat for the aqeeqah of a girl. (Tirmidhi, Abu Dawood) 7. The meat of aqeeqah can be distributed raw or cooked. (Behishti Zewar - Vol. 3) 8. Anyone may partake of the aqeeqah animal, though they be even one’s family members e.g. the grandparents. (Behishti Zewar - Vol. 3) 9. Dry dates should be given to a pious person to chew and then it should be applied in the mouth of the baby, or the baby should be made to suck it. The pious person should also be requested to make dua. (Bukhari) Note: Now-a-days children are being spoilt with love and affection while the parents console themselves by saying that the child will behave when he grows up. One should remember that if the foundation is not straight, the building will also be crooked. Therefore it is necessary to inculcate good character into the child from the very beginning so that one may not regret later. Issue 56 www.rabetah.org Nov / Dec 2014 9 Virtues of Fajr Salaah A Muslim should know the virtues of Fajr Salaah. account for your negligence" “Angels come to you in shifts by night and by day. They meet Rasulullah said: “Whoever prays the dawn prayer in at Fajr and Asr, then those who had stayed with you at night congregation, it is as if he had prayed the whole night ascend, and are asked by the One Who knows better than long.” (Muslim) they: ‘How did you find My servants?’ They say, ‘We left them Rasulullah also said: “The most burdensome prayers for the when they were praying, and we came to them when they hypocrites are Isha and Fajr, but if they only knew what they were praying.’” (Bukhari). contain, they would come even if they had to crawl.” (Musnad According to a Saheeh Hadith: “Whoever prays al-Bardayn Ahmed) (Fajr & Asr) will enter Paradise.” (Bukhari) “Whoever prays Fajr is under the protection of Allah. Do not put yourselves in a situation where Allah has to call you to Where there's a will there's a way In summer, when Fajr is very early, many complain about their inability to get up for Fajr Salaah. …In winter, when Fajr is relatively late, many complain about their inability to get up due to the cold… As the cliché goes, ‘Where there’s a will, there’s a way.’ …If one is sincere in wanting to perform the Fajr Salaah (or any Salaah), then come any season, any type of weather, any condition or any circumstance, the person will do all that which is within his capacity, to fulfil the rights of Allah . Hereunder are a few methods which would help you in waking up for Fajr. An alarm clock should be kept a distance away from the Do not stay awake till late – involved in entertainment or bed. Instead of just switching it off and going back to sleep, you will have to get out of bed to switch it off. If you are a deep sleeper, then use two alarm clocks, with loud alarms. Place one on either side of you – and at a distance. Sincerely make du’aa before sleeping : ‘O Allah, I want to get up or Fajr Salaah. Please give me the ability to do so.’ Tell those at home, who also awaken for the Fajr Salaah, to get you up, even if it means shaking you up. We tend to sleep with our mobile phones therefore Request a friend to give you a call in the morning – 20 or 30 minutes before Fajr. pastimes : browsing the net on your phone, Facebook, Twitter, watching television etc. or in any other activity, even if its a permissible (Mubah) act which would make it difficult to get up for Fajr. In such cases, go to bed early and begin the day early. Shaytaan makes a person feel lazy at Fajr. On awakening, read the masnoon dua: ‘All praise in due to Allah who has given us life after death (i.e. sleep). And to Him will we be raised and returned.’ Then read : ‘La haula wa la qoowata illa billah.’ Ta’awwuz: ‘I seek protection in Allah from Shaytaan, the accursed.’ Even though these are suggested prescriptions, the condition of a Mu’min (Believer in Allah ) is that he or she is also ‘Aashiq’ (a sincere lover) of Allah .. …Since when is an Aashiq negligent in pleasing his or her beloved ? If those who say that they cannot get up for the Fajr Salaah were to read an advertisement in a newspaper by the Bank of England that all those who arrive between 3 a.m. and 4 a.m. at their premises will receive a gold coin worth £1,000 for free. Will they then sleep or camp there the night? …Whereas a gold coin has no worth in comparison to the value of Salaah. We pray that Allah . give us the ability to make it easy for us to wake up for Fajr Salaah. 10 Issue 56 www.rabetah.org Nov / Dec 2014 Where do I start? Imagine waking up one morning to find everyone smiling, just peace, harmony, tranquillity, mutual love, respect, serenity…wouldn’t it be divine? We all desire to change the world for the better, but where do we start? A wise man once said; When I was a young man, I wanted to change the world. I found it was difficult to change the world, so I tried to change my nation. When I found I couldn’t change the nation, I began to focus on my town. I couldn’t change the town, so I tried to change my family. Now, as an old man, I know the only thing I can change is myself. And suddenly I realize that if long ago I had changed myself, I could have made an impact on my family. My family and I could have made an impact on our town. Their impact could have changed the nation and I could indeed have changed the world. So what is really the secret to changing world? Actually it's not such a big secret! Allah . gives us the perfect and most wise solution: “Indeed, Allah will not change the condition of a people until they change what is in themselves.” (Surah Rad, 13:11) If we desire change, then let us change what is within ourselves first and have high hopes and good expectations about gaining help from our Creator. The Messenger of Allah is reported to have said that Allah says: "I treat my servant according to his expectations from Me and I am with him when he remembers Me… If he takes one step towards Me, I will take ten steps towards him. If he walks towards Me, I will run unto him.” (Bukhari & Muslim) Often we fear and resist change. Boldness, courage and determination are essential components of change. The secret of change is not to fight the old, but to refocus and build the new. We need to take it one step at a time. Rome was not built in a day and a journey of a thousand miles starts with the first step. Sometimes it's the smallest decisions we make that can change our life forever. If you change the way you look at things, the things you look at will Insha Allah change. Allah, The Most Wise, is always there to Help and Guide us. So let us not delay and try to be the change that we wish to see in the world. 3. Increases overall health. Additionally, waking up at dawn to pray enhances your blood flow. This keeps you healthy during the day you will probably not get sick. Actually, the Fajr Salaah offers an alternative to Yoga and other kinds of Assalatu Khairum Minan Naum - Prayer is better than sleep meditative workouts. You can effortlessly recite this prayer and you will remain healthy. 1. Wake up before time. The Fajr Salaah ought to be performed very early and thus you require waking up 4. Develops patience. You will develop patience if you read before your normal time. This means that you will begin Fajr Salaah regularly and then incorporated it into your life. your day quite early. It will therefore be simple to This prayer should be recited in a focused and patient way. accomplish a lot more during the day. As such, through beginning your day patiently with the Fajr Prayer Is Better Than Sleep 2. Start your day spiritually. The Fajr Salaah also offers the advantage of offering great spiritual guidance. Your mind and body will be placed in a great spiritual state that will last you all through the day. You will be able to deal better with your regular situations because of guidance from Allah. Issue 56 Salaah, it is now possible for you to begin becoming patient early on. This provides you the best way of dealing with the daily issues and avoiding conflict while placing minimal stress on the body. There are countless other benefits of reciting Fajr Salaah, which means you should start reciting it more often. www.rabetah.org Nov / Dec 2014 11 Inspirational Talk Alhamdulillah, our stay in Makkah Mukarramah has come to an end. Tawafe Wadaa has been done. We are now waiting for the bus to take us to Madinah Munawwarah. We are glad to be going to Madina, but sad to be leaving Makkah Mukarramah. When we keep going near the Baytullah to perform tawaaf and to read Salaah near the Ka’bah we tend to build up a relationship with the Ka’bah. It seems that Ka’bah waits for us and feels sad upon separation. We make dua that Allah protects the Ka'batullah, increases it's honour, raises its status in the eyes of the Ummah, brings here more and more visitors, and also brings us back here again and again. Ameen Shaykh Zulfiqar Ahmad NaqshBandi (DB) came to our hotel last night and delivered a beautiful speech on the love of Rasulullah . Shaykh further went on to mention that the love of the Sahaba for Rasulullah was 'Mahboobe kul jahaan' i.e. The whole universe loved him. He gave examples of non living and living creatures’ love for Rasulullah . He then gave examples of how the companions loved him. He started off by saying love is of 2 types. The fatherly love and the motherly love, however somewhat both are different. Shaykh also said we have to undertake this journey with great love. We should keep reciting Durood Shareef or Qur’an throughout the journey. A father loves the child but at the same time he has to show some authority as well. This is necessary for the nurturing of the child. The mother's love on the other hand is more to do with affection and feelings for the child. She knows her child more than anyone else. She wants everything best for her child. When Imam Shafi'ee (RA) went from Makkah Mukarramah to Madina Munawwarah, it took him 16 days to get there. He says I used to complete one Khatam everyday, thus I did 16 khatams before reaching there." This is the case with these two cities. In Makkah Mukarramah, the greatness and the majesty of Allah is portrayed here. The Hujjaaj love Allah and He loves them. However, there is tawaf, and loud cries of duas, pushing and shoving. This portrays the majesty of Allah; His majesty is affecting those doing tawaf. He is blessing them in a special way. In Madinah Munawwarah, there is Jamaal. The calmness, 12 serenity, and the peaceful environment of Madina is amazing. The beloved of Allah is resting there. He is eager for us to have the best of everything. He loves his Ummah, so he focuses his attention towards them. It is up to us now that while we are there, we pay his Rawdhah (resting place) a regular visit, stay close to his Rawdhah. We should go for salam from the front at least once everyday. Whilst sitting in the Masjid, we should do Muraqabah (Meditation), close our eyes and feel the benevolence of Rasulullah coming into our hearts like the water that flows from a large river to various streams. Issue 56 Shaykh Saheb said "Whatever you recite, give that as a gift to Rasulullah . When a person goes to meet someone senior, he takes a gift for them. This will be your gift for him." May Allah make the journey easy for everyone. May He grant us all true love (ishq) for Rasulullah . May Allah be pleased with us all. Ameen (Shaykh Abdul Raheem, Tafseer e Raheemi) www.rabetah.org Nov / Dec 2014 Answered by Rabetah Iftaa Panel Question: If crab and fish are fried in the same oil, is it permissible to eat the fried fish? Does the crab make the oil impure? Answer: Aquatic creatures which are born and can only live in the water do not become impure upon death, regardless if they are Halal or not. Therefore, lobsters, squids, octopuses and other creatures, despite being unlawful for consumption in the Hanafi school, will be deemed pure after death and will not contaminate other fish and meat sold together. Aquatic creatures which are born in the sea and can survive out of the sea such as crabs and frogs will also remain pure upon death. Thus, if crabs are fried in the same oil as fish, the fried fish will be permissible to consume. The crab will not make the oil impure. (Ikhtiyar Li Ta'lil al-Mukhtar, vol 1, pg 15) Question: Is it permissible to wear silk clothing; shirts, ties, suits etc.? Answer: In a Hadith, the Prophet once emerged whilst holding a piece of silk in his right hand and clutching onto a piece of gold in his left hand. Thereafter he proclaimed, “Verily these two items are forbidden upon the males of my Ummah. ” (Abu Dawood) The Fuqahaa’ (jurists) state that for men to wear clothing made from pure silk is impermissible. A shirt, trouser, blazer, suit or anything else made purely from real silk is impermissible. However, if there is a strip of silk on one’s clothing no wider than four fingers, it will be permissible to wear regardless of the length of the strip of silk. For example, a strip of silk around the cuffs equivalent to four fingers in width will be permissible. Likewise, to have a band of silk around the collar equivalent to four fingers in width is allowed. Clothes which are not made of pure silk but fabric resembling silk or synthetic silk will be permissible to wear on condition the clothing does not resemble feministic clothing. (Ahsanul Fatawa, Vol 8, pg 66) Issue 56 Question: Is it permissible to wear a 9 carat gold ring? Answer: A nine carat gold ring is 9/24 parts gold by mass, or 37.5% gold. This means that 62.5% of the ring is another metal. The permissibility of wearing such a ring is dependent on the foreign alloy. Usually, a 9 carat gold ring is made from one of three alloys: copper, nickel or silver. If the alloy is copper, it will not be permissible to wear such a ring. The wearing of a ring composed of iron, copper, lead or brass is impermissible. If the alloy is made of nickel or silver, it will be permissible to wear a 9 carat ring. Question: Who is the owner of child benefit payments? This is a question that effect very large number of Muslims in the west. Are the parents the complete owner of the money? Do they have the freedom to spend it on other things like household items that are not directly related to the child itself? Could the money be used to pay off debts that the parents have, etc. Answer: As a principle, it is compulsory upon the father to financially maintain his young children. Their needs such as clothing, food, living expenses etc. must be catered for by the father. This maintenance can be sourced from one’s salary, child benefit payments or any other allowance one acquires ownership of. (Al-Fatawa al-Hindiyya) Child benefit (or family allowance, children’s allowance) is a social security payment disbursed to the parents or guardians of children. Child benefit payments are transferred into the ownership of the parent/guardian of the child and not the child. The parent is given ownership and possession of the child benefit to spend in the best interests of the child. As long as the child’s needs and necessities are fulfilled financially, any remaining funds in one’s ownership regardless of the source can be used for any other purpose. www.rabetah.org And Allah Knows Best. Nov / Dec 2014 13 The Hayaa of Hadhrat Fatimah was so lofty and so wonderful and so profound that her last wish and wasiyyah (bequest) became the Sunnah for all Muslim women until the Day of Qiyamah. She instructed that on her death, despite the female’s body being draped with six shrouds, a purdah (barrier) be put up over her body to ensure that no male even accidentally casts a gaze on her wrapped up body. Furthermore, she instructed that she be buried in the darkness of the night. This was an added measure of purdah dictated by her Hayaa. Six shrouds covering the dead body, but still she ordered the erection of a barrier to conceal even her dead, covered body. Hayaa (modesty/shyness) is an integral attribute of Iman. The This Sunnah remains to this day when females are buried and healthier the Iman, the greater will be the quality of Hayaa in will remain until the Day of Qiyamah, Insha Allah. the Believer (Mu’min). While the attribute of Hayaa is common to both Muslim males and females – or should be While this practice prevails today at the time of the death of a Muslim woman, the story is totally different for some when common – it is most profound in Muslim women of Taqwa. they are alive. The quality of Hayaa is such a lofty virtue of the Muslim woman that Allah highlights it in the Qur’an. Describing the When Hayaa is eliminated, then immodesty and immorality noble and beautiful demeanour of the daughter of Hadhrat overwhelm the one who at one stage was a repository of Shuayb , the Qur’an states: “Then one of the two (daughters meekness and modesty. Unfortunately today our sisters hijab and niqab are being reduced to shreds, thanks to the of Prophet Shuayb AS) came to him (Hadhrat Musa ) WhatsApp, Facebook and other social networks. Daughters, walking bashfully (reluctant to draw attention to oneself; shy). sisters, wives and even mothers of some of us have started She said: “Verily, my father calls you…….” (Al-Qasas, 25) uninhibitedly interacting and chatting with ghair-mahrams , Hadhrat Shuayb who had no son sent one of his daughters are freely watching their (ghair-mahrams’) pictures and to call Hadhrat Musa who at the time was a wayfarer posting their own so that the ghair-mahrams of the world can without home. She came walking very bashfully, and with feast upon them. To look at a woman with lust constitutes the lowered head from a respectable distance, delivered her zina of the eyes. What about the Muslim women who candidly father’s message. Hadhrat Musa , whose Hayaa was post their pictures (and those of their kin and friends) on the profound, requested her to walk behind him at a distance. He social networks? Don’t they become accomplices in the sin told her to take a few pebbles. When he had to turn to the committed by those watching these pictures? right on the way to the home of Shuayb of which he was Islam has made hijab a symbol of honour and dignity for unaware, she was to throw a pebble towards the right, and women. Hijab has been ordained by Allah, and not by some the same if he had to turn left from the pathway. His modesty individuals. dictated that she should not direct him with her voice. This Islam protects them from evil eyes and designs of men with was the lofty degree of modesty. sinister motives and grants them an elevated rank, dignity and Thus, the Qur’an makes special mention of the daughter’s such honour that no one has ever granted them in the entire modesty, describing her walk with the term istihya’ which human history. means ‘bashfully’ (reluctant to draw attention to oneself; shy). She was an embodiment of pure bashfulness and Allah states in the Qur’an: “…And the women should not strike their feet (I.e. walk in such a way) so that attention is modesty. drawn to their hidden beauty…” (Surah Nur 31).I.e. they should Once Rasulullah asked Hadhrat Ali : “What is best for a not strike their feet (walk) in such a way that their anklets and woman?” Hadhrat Ali was unable to answer. He said that other ornaments of beauty become manifest before men. he would ask his wife, Hadhrat Fatimah . He went home and Hayaa is of primary importance in preserving the moral fibre when he asked Hadhrat Fatimah , she responded: “The best of any society. That is why Hayaa has been called the for a woman is that no man should see her, and she should see fortification of a woman. It protects her from many sins and no man.” When Hadhrat ‘Ali reported this wonderful prevents ill-intentioned men from daring to have evil thoughts response to Rasulullah , his (our Prophets) blessed face about her. became radiant with pleasure and he delightfully exclaimed: May Allah guide our sisters to emulate the pristine qualities “Fatimah is a part of me.” of our Sahabiyat , Ameen Rasulullah “Hayaa is a branch of Iman.” 14 Issue 56 www.rabetah.org Nov / Dec 2014 of Maalik bin Dinar (RA) Sheikh Maalik bin Dinar (RA) was one of the renowned divines of his times. It is said that, in his early life , he was not a pious man and when someone asked him how he came to repent of his sins and abandon his evil ways, he related the following story about himself. I was a policeman, in my youth, and was fond of wine and would drink like a fish drank day and night and led a carefree life. I bought a beautiful slave-girl whom I loved most dearly. I had a daughter from her, a lovely child, and I was very fond of her and she was also very fond of me. When this baby daughter began to walk and talk, I loved her all the more and she remained with me all the time. The innocent child had a strange habit when she saw a glass of wine in my hands; she would snatch it away and spill it on my clothes. Being fond of her, I did not scold her. As fate would have it, my innocent child died when she was two years old and I was stunned with shock and heart-sore with bitter grief. One night, the fifteenth of Sha'ban, I was dead drunk and went to sleep without performing my Isha Salaat I had a most horrible dream, in which I saw that it was the Day of Resurrection, with men coming out of graves, and I was one of those who were being driven to the Place of Assembly (Maidaan-eHashr). I heard the noise of something following me and, looking back, I saw a huge snake chasing me, close behind. Ah! It was a most horrible sight; the snake had blue catlike eyes, its mouth was wide open and it was rushing towards me, most furiously! I ran faster in terror, desperate for my life, the horrible snake still running after me and drawing closer. I saw an old man, dressed in elegant clothes, with rich perfumes wafting all around his person; I greeted him saying, 'Assallamu-oAlaikum' and he returned my greetings. I said, For the sake of Allah, help me in my misery: He said, 'I am too weak to help you against such a mighty foe; it is beyond my powers. But you must go on running; perhaps you may find some help to save you from it'. Running wildly I saw a cliff in front of me and climbed it, but on reaching its top, I saw, beyond Issue 56 it, the raging Fire of Jahannam, with its most horrifying spectacles. I was so terrified by the snake, that I ran on, till, I was afraid I would fall into Jahannam. Meanwhile, I heard a voice calling aloud, 'Get back, for, you are not one of them (Jahannamis)". I came away and began to run in the opposite direction. The snake also turned around and came after me. I saw, again, the white-robed old man and said to him, 'Old man, can't you save me from this python; I asked you before, but you did not help me'. The man began to cry and said, I am too weak to help you against such a mighty snake, but I can tell you that there is a hill nearby where they keep the 'sacred trusts' of the Muslims. If you go up that hill, you might find something of yours, kept intrust, which might save you from the snake.' I rushed towards the hill, which was round in shape, with a large number of open curtained casements. The casements had golden shutters studded with rich rubies, and most precious jewels; on each shutter hung a curtain made of the rarest silk. When I was going to climb the hill, the angels called aloud, 'Open the windows and raise the curtains and come out of your closets! Here is an unfortunate man in misery; may be you have with you some 'trust' of his, that might help him in his distress." The windows opened at once, the curtains went up, and there issued forth from the casements a host of innocent children, with faces bright as the full moon. By this time I was utterly despondent, for, the snake had drawn very close to me. Now the children called their friends, "Come out quickly all of you, for the snake has come very close to him'. Hearing this, more children came out of the windows, in large crowds, and among them I saw my own dear daughter who had died some time ago. She also espied me and began to weep, exclaiming, 'By Allah! He is my own dear father". She jumped on a swinging cradle, which seemed to be made from heavenly light (Noor) and darted across to me. Next moment, she was standing by my side and I took her to my bosom; she lifted her left hand towards me and with her right band motioned the snake away. The snake www.rabetah.org went away immediately. Then she gave me a seat and sat in my lap and began to stroke my beard with her right hand saying, my dear father, َّللا َو َما َن َز َل ِ َّ ِين آ َم ُنوا أَن َت ْخ َش َع قُلُو ُب ُه ْم لِذ ِْك ِر َ أَ َل ْم َيأْ ِن لِلَّذ م َِن ْال َحق Has not the time come for the Believers (who indulge in sins) that their hearts should submit in all humility to the remembrance Allah and to the truth which is revealed? (Al-Hadeed: 16) I was moved to tears and asked her, “ My daughter, do all of you know the meaning of the Qur’an?” ‘She replied , “We understand the Holy Qur’an even better than you.” ‘I asked her, “My dear child, what was that snake?” ‘She said, “ It was your own evil deeds which had made it so strong that it was about to push you into Jahannam.” I asked, “ And who was that white –robed old man ?” She replied, “That were your good deeds and you had made them so weak with your scanty good deeds that he could not help you against the snake (though he suggested to you a means of escape).” I asked, “What are all of you doing on this hill?” She replied, We are the children of Muslims, who died in infancy. We shall live here till the Day of Resurrection, waiting to be reunited with you when you come to us at last and we shall intercede for you with our Lord.'; And then I awoke from the dream, with the fright (of the snake) still heavy on my heart I turned to Allah in repentance, as soon as I arose, and abandoned my evil ways. (Raudh) The lesson we learn from this story is that when young children die in infancy and their parents show patience and control of their emotions, it becomes a means of their salvation in the Hereafter. Malik ibn Dinaar changed from a person known for alcoholism, and great negligence in his relationship with Allah, to a leading pious scholar. He changed from someone whose actions could have made him merit Hellfire, he turned into a person who, Inshallah, will inhabit Paradise eternally. This story was recorded in “Fazail e Sadaqat” – By Shaykh Muhammad Zakariyya Kandhelvi (r.a) Nov / Dec 2014 15 The Sweetness of The sweetness of Sabr (Patience) outlives grief. Patience is a cup every person has to drink from. Allah is with those who are As‑Saabiroon (the patient)” (AlAnfaal 6:46) There are some types of grief that weigh on the heart, that if they were to be felt by a mountain, that mountain would crumble to the ground… During times of deep trial, despair and sadness, patience is a fort. Relief and comfort can be found in adhering to Deen. We will most definitely be tried and tested in life, and these trials should be borne with "patience, perseverance and prayer." Indeed, people before us have suffered and had their faith tested; so too will we be tried and tested in this life but we should not lose hope or feel despondent. When Rasulullah lost his beloved son Ibrahim, he held his small body in his arms and said, "The eyes send their tears and the heart is saddened, but we do not say anything except that which pleases our Lord. Indeed, O Ibrahim, we are bereaved by your departure from us." Allah says; “Verily, with every difficulty there is relief.” (Qur'an 94:5-6) Patience only comes with great struggle and difficulty. It is like trying to grasp and hold onto a strong and fast-swimming fish with your bare hands. You may succeed for a The human heart is just a moment or two, but if you are not small, fragile piece of flesh vigilant, it will escape from grip just as but with Sabr (patience), it is quickly as it came. Patience doesn't mean burying your head in the sand until the storm has ended and you can be sure safely reemerge into life. And patience isn't peaceful…at least not at first. able to carry the kind of pain that would cause a mountain to disintegrate. True patience is like stepping onto shards of glass and muffling your screams. As you sit and remove the pieces from your skin, tears stinging at your eyes from the pain, you smile and do not say a word. Patience is indeed a pillar of great virtue. Allah says; "No one will be granted such goodness except those who exercise patience and self-restraint, none but persons of the greatest good fortune." (Qur’an 41:35) When our focus ceases to be solely on ourselves, our pride and our ego, then patience is easier to manifest. No matter what types of adverse conditions prevail, a person who exercises patience will not be at loss. The Messenger of Allah said; "How wonderful is the affairs of the believer, for his affairs are all good, and this applies to no one but the believer. If something good happens to him, he is thankful for it and that is good for him. If something bad happens to him, he bears it with patience and that is good for him." (Hadith-Muslim) So next time you are struck with an arrow of grief or caught-up in a storm of difficulties, remember to exercise patience, turn to Allah in repentance and pray to Him for relief… for at the end of every dark tunnel there are rays of light! "Verily man is in loss, except such as have faith, and do righteous deeds, and join together in the mutual enjoining of truth, and of patience and constancy." ( Qur’an 103:2-3) Patience and success are like twin brothers, for victory comes with patience, relief comes with distress and ease comes with hardship. Its relationship to victory is like that of the head to the body. In the Qur’an, Allah has guaranteed those who are patient that He will give them reward without measure. He tells them that He is with them by guiding and supporting them and granting them a clear victory. Allah says; “Surely, 16 Issue 56 www.rabetah.org Nov / Dec 2014 When Prophet Muhammad was 12 years old, he went with his uncle Abu Talib on a business trip to Syria. In a place called Bushra a very interesting incident took place, which caused Abu Talib to return Muhammad to Makkah. On their business trip they met a monk by the name of Bahira (his real name was Georges). Bahira lived a simple life in a monastery. He had The ruin in Busra used to be the very simple provisions and lived a harsh life, Monastery of Bahira the surviving on the bare essentials of life. His diet monk, who spotted the signs of Prophethood on the young was very simple and the clothes he wore were also coarse and well worn. He was looking outside Muhammad It is a tree near Safawi where the young Prophet Muhammad and saw a caravan approaching. His lived at a place on the main caravan route and he regularly saw caravans passing by. They would be carrying different met with Bahira the monk while travelling with his uncle, goods to be sold in the great markets of Syria. Abu Talib, to Syria. He noticed that this caravan was different; there was something special about it. He decided to invite them to a meal and find out more. Bahira sent a message to the caravan that his hospitality was extended to all the members of the caravan. The caravan traders accepted the invitation and arrived at the monk’s place. When they arrived, Bahira searched their faces looking for something. He said that I offered my hospitality to everyone, did you leave anyone behind? They said that we left a young boy Muhammad to look after the camels. Bahira insisted that they send someone to get Muhammad and bring him to the entertainment. When Bahira saw the Last Issue’sCompetition face of Muhammad he was delighted. After the food, Bahira approached Abu Talib saying that Muhammad would be a great prophet one day. He said that when he had seen the caravan in the distance there was a cloud hanging over them, which was shading them from the great heat of the desert. When the caravan had stopped under a tree the cloud had also stopped above them. Bahira said that he had seen the stones and the trees prostrating to Muhammad as Muhammad had been walking by. They only do this for a prophet of Allah. He looked at the Muhammad 's back and noticed the seal of the prophet, which was an oval shape just below Muhammad 's shoulder blades. He said that this was one of the signs of a great prophet to come that was taught to them in their books. Bahira said, "This is the master of all humans, Allah will send him with a message which would be a mercy to all Humans". Bahira advised that Muhammad should be taken back to Makkah at once, if the Jews found out about Muhammad they would try to kill him. Abu Talib took the advice of this wise old monk and sent Muhammad back with some of the guides. Visit: www.alislahkids.com Issue 56 www.rabetah.org Ismail Patel (Age 13) Dewsbury Muhammad Patel (Age 11) Batley Yusuf Mahmood (Age 9) Batley You should receive your prizes very soon! Nov / Dec 2014 17 SUNNATS UPON AWAKENING 1. Immediately on awakening rub the face and the eyes with both the palms in order to remove the effects of sleep. 2. When the eyes open in the morning recite this dua: 3. When awakening from sleep brush your teeth with a Miswaak. 4. When wearing one’s trousers, first put on the right leg, then the left one. When putting on a shirt, first put on the right sleeve and then the left one. The same should be done when wearing a vest. When wearing a shoe, first put on the right shoe. When removing any garment or shoe, first remove the left, then the right. This is the sunnat method when removing any garment from the body. 5. Before putting the hands into any utensils, wash them thrice thoroughly. 1. What was the name of the year that Muhammad was born in? a) The Year of the Elephant b) The Year of the Camel c) The Year of the Cat 2. What was the name of Muhammad 's wet-nurse? a) Halima b) Hafsa c) Aaminah 3. What was the name of the city that Muhammad was born in? a) Madinah b) Cairo c) Jerusalem d) Makkah 4. How old was Muhammad when his mother passed away? a) 2 years old b) 8 years old c) 25 years old d)6 years old 5. How old was Muhammad when he first got married? a) 27 years old b) 25 years old c) 23 years old d) 40 years old 6. What was the name of Muhammad 's Grandfather? a) Abu Talib b) Hamza c) Abu Bakr d) Abu Hurairah e) Abdul Mu'talib For your chance to WIN, simply answer the questions with your Name, Address and Age (Age Limit 11) to; Al-Islah Competition, 13 Wayne Close, Batley, West Yorkshire, WF17 0EU Email: [email protected] or enter online www.alislahkids.com/competition 7. What was the name of Muhammad 's mother? a) Aaminah b) Amira c) Asiyah d) A'isha 8. What was the name of the Christian monk who recognised that Muhammad was a Prophet? a) Waraqah b) Bahira c) Abrahah 9. What was the name of the cave in which the Prophet first received the revelation? a) Cave of Thor b) Cave of Hira c) Cave of Jabal d) Cave of Makkah 10. Which city did the Prophet migrate from Makkah to? a) Madinah b) Jerusalem c) Damascus d) Jeddah ENTRIES MUST BE RECEIVED BEFORE 30th November 2014 18 Issue 56 www.rabetah.org Nov / Dec 2014 THE BEST OF… The Prophet Muhammad said: “The best of the Muslims is he from whose hand and tongue the Muslims are safe.” (Muslim) “The best of people are those with the most excellent character.” (Tabrani) “The best of marriages are the easiest ones.” (Abu Dawud) “The best of dowries are the easiest.” (Hakim) “The best prayers for women are those performed in the most secluded parts of their houses.” (Ibn Khuzaymah) “The best of you are those who feed others and return greetings.” (Abu Ya’lâ) “The most beloved of deeds according to Allah are the continuous ones, even if they are little.” (Bukhari, Muslim) “The most beloved words according to Allah the Most High are four: Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, La ilaha illallah and Allahu Akbar; there is no problem with which one you start with.” (Muslim) “The best of provision is that which suffices.” (Ahmad) “The most beloved word according to me is that which is most truthful.” (Bukhari) “The best word of remembrance is: La ilaha illallah and the best supplication is: Alhamdulillah.” (Tirmidhi) “The best of all charity is that which is given to the relative that harbours enmity against you.” (Ahmad) “The best of all worship is supplication (dua).” (Hakim) ADVERTISE in AL AL--ISLAH MAGAZINE Al-Islah Magazine Advertisement Price List Size BC: Business Card Size A6: 1/4 Page Size A5: 1/2 Page Size A4: Full Page Inside Size A4: Full Back Cover PRINT | WEB | MOBILE £25 £50 £100 £195 £225 Call: 07828106251 / 07886922388 Email: [email protected] Get your Please download and tell all your family, friends and acquaintances and gain reward Issue 56 www.rabetah.org Nov / Dec 2014 19 Mujtaba Biryani Rice (In Arabic, it means “The Chosen One”) India’s Longest & Finest Biryani Rice Mujtaba Biryani Rice is steamed or par-boiled then dried, which locks in that beautiful aromatic flavours and ensures separation of each grain, cooked to perfection. 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