ummtaalib

Sūrah an-Nūr: Hijab One of the key qualities for eternal success mentioned in the previous sūrah was guarding chastity. This sūrah further amplifies on it and gives commands both for the preservation of that chastity and for the punishment when it is violated. It begins with the punishment for fornication, followed by punishment for slandering a chaste woman or man. These are two of the four Ḥudūd laws, which are not subject to any change with the passage of time. The other two Ḥudūd Laws deal with punishments for theft and consuming alcohol. It also deals with the slander of Sayyidah ʿĀ’ishah by the hypocrites, rebuking them and testifying to her chastity. It continues to give commands for the preservation of ḥayā in the social life of the Muslim community. This forms the essential Islamic “sex education” course. And a key component of that course is contained in the following two āyahs. قُل لِّلْمُؤْمِنِينَ يَغُضُّوا مِنْ أَبْصَارِهِمْ وَيَحْفَظُوا فُرُوجَهُمْ ۚ ذَٰلِكَ أَزْكَىٰ لَهُمْ ۗ إِنَّ اللَّهَ خَبِيرٌ بِمَا يَصْنَعُونَ Tell the believing men that they must restrain their gazes and guard their chastity; it is more decent for them. Surely Allāh is All-Aware of what they do. (An-Nūr, 24:30) وَقُل لِّلْمُؤْمِنَاتِ يَغْضُضْنَ مِنْ أَبْصَارِهِنَّ وَيَحْفَظْنَ فُرُوجَهُنَّ وَلَا يُبْدِينَ زِينَتَهُنَّ إِلَّا مَا ظَهَرَ مِنْهَا ۖ وَلْيَضْرِبْنَ بِخُمُرِهِنَّ عَلَىٰ جُيُوبِهِنَّ ۖ وَلَا يُبْدِينَ زِينَتَهُنَّ إِلَّا لِبُعُولَتِهِنَّ أَوْ آبَائِهِنَّ أَوْ آبَاءِ بُعُولَتِهِنَّ أَوْ أَبْنَائِهِنَّ أَوْ أَبْنَاءِ بُعُولَتِهِنَّ أَوْ إِخْوَانِهِنَّ أَوْ بَنِي إِخْوَانِهِنَّ أَوْ بَنِي أَخَوَاتِهِنَّ أَوْ نِسَائِهِنَّ أَوْ مَا مَلَكَتْ أَيْمَانُهُنَّ أَوِ التَّابِعِينَ غَيْرِ أُولِي الْإِرْبَةِ مِنَ الرِّجَالِ أَوِ الطِّفْلِ الَّذِينَ لَمْ يَظْهَرُوا عَلَىٰ عَوْرَاتِ النِّسَاءِ ۖ وَلَا يَضْرِبْنَ بِأَرْجُلِهِنَّ لِيُعْلَمَ مَا يُخْفِينَ مِن زِينَتِهِنَّ ۚ وَتُوبُوا إِلَى اللَّهِ جَمِيعًا أَيُّهَ الْمُؤْمِنُونَ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُفْلِحُونَ And tell the believing women that they must restrain their gazes and guard their chastity, and must not expose their adornment, except that which (necessarily) appears thereof, and must wrap their bosoms with their shawls, and must not expose their adornment, except to their husbands or their fathers or the fathers of their husbands, or to their sons or the sons of their husbands, or to their brothers or the sons of their brothers or the sons of their sisters, or to their women, or to those owned by their right hands, or male attendants having no (sexual) urge, or to the children who are not yet conscious of the private parts of women. And let them not stamp their feet in a way that the adornment they conceal is known. And repent to Allāh O believers, all of you, so that you may achieve success. (An-Nūr, 24:31) The first step toward preserving chastity is the creation of the environment in which temptations are minimized. A woman’s beauty is not public property to be enjoyed by one and all. It is a private treasure that has to be kept private. Both men and women have to restrain their gazes so the looks that can potentially start lusts are nipped in the bud. But women have to do more by covering themselves as detailed above. Ḥayā’ Islam’s laws about hijab, its ban against free mixing of men and women, its teachings about gender-relations—all of these reflect a deep concern for ḥayā. The only people who will try to water down these injunctions are those who are not fully cognizant of ḥayā’s central place in Islamic life and the destruction caused in the society by its absence. What is ḥayā? It is normally translated as modesty or inhibition but neither word conveys the same idea as ḥayā. Modesty suggests shunning indecent behavior but it also implies bashfulness based on timidity. That is why the adjective based on its opposite, immodest, is sometimes also used as a compliment suggesting courage. Inhibition is defined as: “Conscious or unconscious mechanism whereby unacceptable impulses are suppressed.” This is a very neutral definition with no reference to right or wrong. Thus one finds psychiatrists “helping” their patients overcome inhibitions. In contrast to the moral ambiguity of these words, ḥayā refers to an extremely desirable quality that protects us from all evil. It is a natural feeling that brings us pain at the very idea of committing a wrong. Along with its unique connotation comes the unique value of ḥayā in Islam. Prophet Muḥammad ﷺ said: “Every religion has a distinct call. For Islam it is ḥayā.” Another famous hadith says: “There are more than seventy branches of Īmān (faith). The foremost is the declaration that there is no god except Allāh and the least of it is removing harmful things from the path. And ḥayā is a branch of Īmān.” As some Muḥadithīn point out, the number seventy is a figure of speech. What the hadith tells us is that the declaration of faith is the most important part of Īmān but that is not all. Īmān also has to reflect itself in all kinds of actions in real life. Moreover, ḥayā is a centerpiece of most of the actions that Īmān calls for. It is the basic building block of Islamic morality. When it is lost everything is lost. Restraining Gazes The command to restrain gazes is seen today in wholesale violation. In fact women feel they are a greater target of stares on the streets, say, in Karachi or Istanbul than they are in Los Angeles or London. This sad reality then leads some to question the very restrictions being violated. Maybe we can have better morality if all the restrictions are removed? We need to put this delusion to rest. What we are seeing in Los Angeles or London are better manners and not better morals. The alarming rates of sexual improprieties at every level of the society, from the President on down, at the same time that sexual impropriety is being constantly redefined and narrowed down, are sufficient to put an end to this fanciful thesis. However it does show that when believers violate Allāh’s commands, they may become worse than anybody else in their manners as well. This should not detract us from the fact that the goal of the believers is to excel in both manners and morals. This can only be achieved by turning back to Allāh. Once again, we need to start listening to the Qur’ān to get out of this terrible mess. Qur'an Reflections Al-Balagh

Not Fasting during the Month of Ramadhaan without a Valid Excuse Q: What is the ruling regarding the person who does not fast during the month of Ramadhaan without a valid excuse and eats openly? A: Fasting is a salient feature of Islam. To openly eat and drink during the month of Ramadhaan is tantamount to showing disregard to the salient feature of Islam and a major sin. If the one who does not fast and openly eats and drinks regards it as a sin but does so due to weakness of Imaan he will be guilty of a major sin but will not come out of the fold of Islam. If he believes that there is no sin in what he is doing then such a person has regarded this salient feature of Islam as insignificant. Hence this will render him out of the fold of Islam. (Ahsanul Fataawa vol.1 pg.37) ولو أكل عمدا شهرة بلا عذر يقتل و تمامه في شرح الوهبانية قال في الوهبانية : ولو أكل الإنسان عمدا و شهرة ولا عذر فيه قيل بالقتل يؤمر قال الشرنبلالي صورتها: تعمد من لا عذر له الإكل جهارا يقتل لأنه مستهزئ بالدين أو منكر (ردالمحتار على در المختار ج2 ص413) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

Giving Sadaqatul Fitr to a Non-Muslim Q: If someone gives his sadaqatul fitr to a non-muslim in a Non-Islamic state, will the sadaqatul fitr be discharged? A: The sadaqatul fitr will not be discharged. ( ولا ) تدفع ( إلى ذمي ) لحديث معاذ ( وجاز ) دفع ( غيرها وغير العشر ) والخراج ( إليه ) أي الذمي ولو واجبا كنذر وكفارة وفطرة خلافا للثاني وبقوله يفتى حاوي القدسي وأما الحربي ولو مستأمنا فجميع الصدقات لا تجوز له اتفاقا بحر عن الغاية وغيرها لكن جزم الزيلعي بجواز التطوع له قال الشامي: قوله ( غير العشر ) فإنه ملحق بالزكاة ولذا سموه زكاة الزرع وأما الخراج فليس من الصدقات التي الكلامفيها ومصرفه مصالح المسلمين كما مر ولذا لم يستثن في الكنز و الهداية إلا الزكاة قوله ( خلافا للثاني ) حيث قال إن دفع سائر الصدقات الواجبة إليه لا يجوز اعتبارا بالزكاة وصرح في الهداية وغيرها بأن هذا رواية عن الثاني وظاهره أن قوله المشهور كقولهما قوله ( وبقوله يفتى ) الذي في حاشية الخير الرملي عن الحاوي وبقوله نأخذ قلت لكن كلام الهداية وغيرها يفيد ترجيح قولهما وعليه المتون قوله ( وأما الحربي ) محترز الذمي قوله ( عن الغاية ) أي غاية البيان وقوله وغيرها أي النهاية فافهم قوله ( لكن جزم الزيلعي بجواز التطوع له ) أي للمستأمن كما تفيده عبارة النهر ثم إن هذا لم أره في الزيلعي وكذا قال أبو السعود وغيره مع أنه مخالف لدعوى الاتفاق لكن رأيت في المحيط من كتاب الكسب ذكر محمد في السير الكبير لا بأس للمسلم أن يعطي كافرا حربيا أو ذميا وأن يقبل الهدية منه لما روي أن النبي بعث خمسمائة دينار إلى مكة حين قحطوا وأمر بدفعها إلى أبي سفيان بن حرب وصفوان بن أمية ليفرقا على فقراء أهل مكة ولأن صلة الرحم محمودة في كل دين والإهداء إلى الغير من مكارم الأخلاق الخ وسنذكر تمام الكلام على ذلك في أول كتاب الوصايا (رد المحتار 2/351-352) وأما أهل الذمة فلا يجوز صرف الزكاة إليهم بالاتفاق ويجوز صرف صدقة التطوع إليهم بالاتفاق واختلفوا في صدقة الفطر والنذور والكفارات قال أبو حنيفة ومحمد رحمهما الله تعالى يجوز إلا أن فقراء المسلمين أحب إلينا كذا في شرح الطحاوي وأما الحربي المستأمن فلا يجوز دفع الزكاة والصدقة الواجبة إليه بالإجماع ويجوز صرف التطوع إليه (الفتاوى الهندية 1/188) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

18th Night Taraweeh Summary The 22nd para is recited in this Taraaweeh. Referring to the time when Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) was upset with his on some account, Allaah tells them, “Oh wives of the prophet! You are not like any other women (but higher in status).” [verse 32] Allaah instructs them never to make a display of themselves and to learn the Qur'aan and Sunnah from their homes, which they should teach to others. Allaah advises that His commands be carried out even though difficulties have to be borne in achieving the same. Allaah then states, “Muhammed (sallallaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) is not the father of any man amongst you, but he is Allaah’s messenger and the seal of all prophets.” [verse 40] In honour of Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam), Allaah says in verse 56, “Verily Allaah and his angels shower their special mercies on the Prophet (sallallaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam). Oh you who believe! Convey mercies and salutations upon him.” Thereafter, Allaah makes mention of numerous laws of marriage, divorce, iddah and hijaab. In verse 70, Allaah commands the Muslims to speak only what is good because this will afford them the capacity to carry out good deeds. Allaah makes it clear that the only road to success is in following the teachings of Allaah and Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam). In verse 72 Allaah says that the awesome trust of bearing the Shari'ah was offered to the heavens, the earth and the mountains but they all shrank from the task. It was only man who was able to bear the responsibility. Allaah curses the kuffaar and Munafiqeen in this Surah, whereafter the Surah closes with mention of Allaah’s mercy. After Surah Ahzaab, Surah Saba begins with the dynamic statement that “All praise belongs to Allaah, to Whom belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is in the earth. All praise belongs to Him in the Hereafter as well. He is The Wise, the Informed.” Allaah dispels the foolish altercation of the kuffaar who say that they must be correct in their beliefs and deeds because Allaah has not yet annihilated them with His punishment. Allaah tells Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) that he should warn these kuffaar that Allaah’s punishment can afflict them at any stage just as it struck the nations of the past. There are lessons to be learnt from these incidents for people with Imaan. Relating the incidents of various Ambiya (A.S), Allaah begins with the narrative of Hadhrat Dawood (A.S). Allaah made iron soft for him, which he would mould as he pleased. Allaah also subjugated the birds and mountains for him, all of which would hymn Allaah’s Dhikr along with him. Allaah made a spring of copper gush forth for Hadhrat Sulaymaan (A.S) and also granted him control over the winds and the jinn. Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the 18th night of Taraaweeh Download Now Allaah speaks about the people of Saba in this Surah, whom Allaah destroyed in a flood because they were ungrateful for the bounties that He bestowed on them. Surah Faatir follows Surah Saba as the 35th Surah of the Qur'aan. Herein Allaah states that He has created the heavens and the earth without any previous example. Thereafter, Allaah states that He “made the angels messengers, possessing two, three and four wings. Allaah increases in His creation as He pleases. Verily Allaah has power over all things. There is none to withhold the mercy Allaah opens to people, and there is none to release the mercy that He withholds. He is the Mighty, the Wise.” [verse 1 and 2] Thereafter, Allaah warns man to beware of Shaytaan’s ploys because he beautifies the deeds of people for them so that sin appears to be virtuous to them. Shaytaan must be treated as the avowed enemy he is to man. Speaking about those who spend their wealth for Allaah’s pleasure, Allaah says that He will “grant them their reward in full and increase them from His grace. Verily He is Most Forgiving, Most Appreciative.” [verse 30] Every being is dependent on Allaah, Who has power to do whatever He pleases. Allaah declares in verse 45, “If Allaah was to take man to task for whatever he does, Allaah would not leave a single living creature on the face of the earth (because His punishment would destroy them all). But Allaah defers them till an appointed term.” Surah Yaaseen follows Surah Faatir. Allaah says that that He has revealed the Qur'aan to Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) so that he may guide people. However, there are those kuffaar who have veils upon their hearts and will not respond. Regarding them Allaah says, “It the same to them whether you warn them or you do not warn them. They will never believe. You can only warn him who follows the advice and fears Rahmaan without seeing Him. Give him the glad tidings of forgiveness and a bountiful provision.” [verses 10 and 11] The concluding verse of this Surah advises, “Follow those who do not ask any remuneration from you, and who are rightly guided.” [verse 21]

Watching TV Q. In my country, most tv programs including news broadcast are being sponsored by alcoholic companies or banks that deal in interest. though i bought my tv and pay my bills myself, is it haram for me to watch the programs because they are being sponsored by haram companies? Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. Watching television constitutes great harm and violation of Sharī’ah. Even sports programmes and news readings contain many sinful and prohibited items. Further, the moral and spiritual harms too are evident. Hereunder is an article on the harms of watching television and movies and the rationale behind its prohibition: Watching TV and movies Watching TV and movies is not permissible according to Islam because TV programmes and movies constitute multiple sins, of which even one would be sufficient to render something impermissible. The heinous effect TV and movies have had globally is as apparent as daylight, and yet those intoxicated by the effects of TV and movies cannot see this. One of the specialities of TV and movies is that it makes even a sensible person deaf, dumb and blind in that he deems permissible and acceptable the evils and sins displayed and promoted by TV and movies that he would normally, without hesitation, declare to be sinful and evil. He lets himself and his family watch and enjoy the evils that he would normally do everything to keep himself and his family away from. Such is the intoxicating effect of TV and movies that it causes all sense of morality and uprightness to go right down the drain. And because of this, families are breaking apart; immorality, lewdness and promiscuity are becoming the order of the day, the youngsters are becoming more disrespectful to their parents and elders, the youngsters and the adults alike are straying further away from the beautiful teachings of Islam and are instead adopting the ways and lifestyle of the immoral people, people are becoming more and more materialistic and are harbouring aversion to religion, and many other heinous acts are taking place that one would feel ashamed to write about. May Allah Ta’ala protect us. Hereunder are some sins that a person commits by watching TV and movies: · Looking at people of the opposite gender without dire necessity and in a way prohibited by Islam. The Quran commands the males and females alike to lower their gazes, and this is not feasible in the case of TV and movies. · Looking at people who are considered nude in Islam. · Listening to music. Music is a great sin in Islam. · Displaying pictures in the house. According to the hadith, pictures prevent angels of mercy from entering the house. If there are no angels of mercy in the house, the house will be full of devils. · Watching and listening to immoral people, thereby, creating admiration for them and their ways. The hadith tells us that a person in the life hereafter will be with the ones he loves and admires. · Watching and listening to things that are forbidden according to Islam, thereby, supporting such forbidden things. · Wasting time. Time is very precious according to Islam. · Putting oneself in a state of heedlessness. And because of this heedlessness, many salaats are not offered on time or at all. · Supporting the list of evils mentioned below that TV and movies promote. · By letting one’s family watch TV and movies, he invites them to commit all of the evils above and below. Therefore, instead of inviting them to the teachings of Islam, he invites them to the wrath of Allah. Instead of guiding them to paradise, he guides them to the fire of Hell. Not only are TV and movies evil in themselves, they quite boldly and openly promote evil in all its forms. The following are some evils that movies and TV promote indiscriminately that can be observed by any unbiased, sensible and honest person: · Nudity · Promiscuity · Intermingling of the genders · Profanity · Offensive language · Taking alcohol and drugs · Vulgarity · Vanity and arrogance · Violence · Crime · Greed · Corruption · Dishonesty · Atheism · Secularism · Mockery of religion · Disrespect · Defiance of authority · Disobedience of parents, teachers and elders. · Following ones whims and desires indiscriminately. Please remember that the list above is by no means exhaustive. The gist of the above is that a Muslim who fears Allah the Almighty and believes in the Day of Judgement and life after death should stay far away from TV and movies. He should instead spend his free time in things that please Allah Ta’ala such as listening to lectures of the Ulama (scholars), reading the Quran, hadith and Islamic literature, taking part in ilmi and deeni gatherings, etc. In addition, one should take the warnings contained in the following Qur’anic verses seriously: Translation: O you who believe! enter into Islam fully and do not follow the footsteps of Satan; surely he is your open enemy. (Quran 2:208) Verily Satan is an enemy to you: so treat him as an enemy. He only invites his adherents that they may become companions of the Blazing Fire. (Quran 35:6) And let not Satan turn you aside. Lo! he is an open enemy for you. (Quran 43:62) The reckoning has drawn near to men, and in heedlessness are they turning aside. (Quran 21:1) O you who believe, save your souls, and those of your families, from the fire whose fuel is men and stones, over which are set angels fierce and terrible; who disobey not Allah in what He has commanded them, but perform what they are commanded. (Quran 66:6) A poet has pertinently described the evil of letting loose and not controlling ones gaze, and it aptly applies to watching TV and movies: كل الحوادث مبداها من النظر … ومعظم النار من مستصغر الشرر والمرء ما دام ذا عين يقلبها … في أعين العين موقوف على الخطر كم نظرة فعلت في قلب فاعلها … فعل السهام بلا قوس ولا وتر يسر ناظره ما ضر خاطره … لا مرحباً بسرور عاد بالضرر Translation: All evil occurrences begin with ones glance, And most fires are caught by (negligence of) those who deem sparks insignificant. A man remains in danger as long as his eyes scrutinize the eyes of (beautiful) women with large (gorgeous) eyes, How many a glance has done to the heart the same as what an arrow would do — without any bow or string. The one glancing is pleased with what harms his inner self. No thanks to pleasure that brings harm.[1] In light of all these harms, it is impermissible to watch television, regardless of whether the programmes have been sponsored by companies dealing in alcohol and interest or not. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Nabeel Valli Student Darul Iftaa Lusaka, Zambia Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. www.daruliftaa.net

Breaking a Fast on the Advise of a Doctor Q: A person whilst fasting had fallen ill. The doctor advised him to break his fast. Is he sinful for doing so and will both Qadha and Kaffarah be Waajib or only Qadha? A: If he is unable to continue with the fast it will be permissible for him to break the fast and only Qadha will be Waajib. المريض إذا خاف على نفسه التلف أو ذهاب عضو يفطر بالإجماع وإن خاف زيادة العلة وامتداده فكذلك وعليه القضاء إذا أفطر كذا في المحيط (الفتاوى الهندية ج1 ص207) ( أو مريض خاف الزيادة ) لمرضه (الدر المختار 2/422-فصل في العوارض المبيحة لعدم الصائم) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

17th Night Taraweeh Summary Till the sixteenth Taraaweeh, one and a quarter paras were being recited nightly. From the 17th Taraaweeh, only one para will be recited nightly. Therefore, this (17th) Taraaweeh will includes the entire 21st para, which is made up of part of Surah Ankaboot, the entire Surah Roum, Surah Luqmaan, Surah Sajdah, and a part of Surah Ahzaab (till verse 30). Allaah addresses Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) saying. “Recite that of the Book, which has been revealed to you and establish salaah. Verily salaah forbids from obscenity and evil.” [verse 45] So that the Ahlul Kitaab (Jews and Christians) can accept Islam, Allaah advises, “Only debate with the People of the Book with that which is best; save for those of them who are unjust. And say, ‘We believe in what was revealed to us (the Qur'aan) and what was revealed to you (just as well). Our deity and your deity is One and we surrender to Him.” [verse 46] Allaah mentions how strange it is that the kuffaar believe that Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) wrote the Qur'aan whereas they all knew well that he was unlettered. It is obvious that the Qur'aan could have only proceeded from Allaah. Allaah addresses the Mu'mineen saying, “Oh My believing bondsmen! Indeed my earth is vast, so worship Me only (wherever you may go). Every soul shall taste death, whereafter you people will be returned to Us.” [verse 56/7] Later in the Surah Allaah discusses Jannah and also mentions that all sustenance comes from Allaah only. Thereafter Allaah says that He will certainly guide aright those who strive in His cause. Allaah says, “We shall definitely show Our avenues to those who endure suffering in Our cause. Verily Allaah is certainly with those who do good.” [verse 69] After Surah Ankaboot, Surah Roum begins by telling people that although the Persians defeated the Romans in battle, the Mu'mineen will be pleased to note that the Romans will be victorious within a few years. Thereafter, Allaah cites numerous signs that denote His great power and might. Allaah then asserts that Islam is true and cannot be altered. Allaah adds, “This is the upright religion, but most people do not know.” [verse 30] Allaah also announces to people that usurious trade can never be profitable because it is haraam and devoid of blessings. Blessings are in that wealth from which zakaah is paid. Allaah says in verse 39, “Whatever usury you give to increase people’s wealth does not increase in Allaah’s sight. Whatever you give in zakaah, seeking Allaah’s pleasure, then such people truly multiply (their rewards).” Allaah also tells Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) that there will be some people who will never accept the truth despite his most concerted efforts. This is because the seal of ignorance has been stamped on their hearts. The entire Surah Roum centres around the following three subjects: 1) The purpose behind the creation of everything. 2) The proofs of Tauheed. 3) Islam is a natural endowment. After Surah Roum, Surah Luqmaan commences by stating, “These are verses of the Wise Book (the Qur'aan, which is) A guidance and mercy for those who do good.” Thereafter, Allaah speaks about another breed of people when He says (in verse 6) that there are those who seek futile pastimes which deviate them from remembering Allaah. Allaah then conveys the message of Tauheed. Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the night of Taraaweeh Download Now Later in the Surah, Allaah speaks about Hadhrat Luqmaan (A.S) and quotes his words of advice. Allaah says, “We certainly granted wisdom to Luqmaan (inspiring him) to express gratitude to Allaah. Whoever will be grateful to Allaah, expresses gratitude for his own benefit. As for him who is ungrateful, Allaah is certainly Independent, Most Worthy of praise.” [verse 12] Hadhrat Luqmaan (A.S) never perpetrated shirk and he also enjoined his children never to commit this vile deed. Allaah declares, “Oh people! Fear Allaah and beware of the day when a father will be of no avail to his son, nor will a child be of any avail to his father.” [verse 33] The Surah also teaches man never to walk with pride, never to turn one’s face away from another, and never to raise his voice because the worst of all sounds is that of the donkey. Allaah then repeats the message of Tauheed when He cites various bounties that He has bestowed on man. Allaah concludes the Surah with the verse: “Verily the knowledge of Qiyamah is only with Allaah, He sends the rains and knows what is in the wombs. A soul does not know what it will earn tomorrow and does not know which land it will die in. Undoubtedly Allaah is All Knowing, Informed.” Surah Sajdah begins after Surah Luqmaan and primarily discusses the truth of the Qur'aan and the distinction of man. Allaah remarks that the kuffaar are truly foolish to believe that although Allaah created the heavens, the earth and all of creation, he could not reveal the Qur'aan. Allaah says about these rejecters, “Who is more unjust than he who is reminded of the verses of his Rabb and then turns away therefrom? We will certainly exact retribution from the criminals.” [verse 22] Allaah concludes the Surah by telling Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam), “So turn away from them and wait. They are also waiting.” [verse 30] Allaah then begins Surah Ahzaab by saying, “Oh Prophet (sallallaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam)! Fear Allaah and do not follow the disbelievers and the hypocrites. Undoubtedly Allaah is ever the All Knowing, the Wise. Follow what has been revealed to you from your Rabb. Allaah is Ever Informed of what you do.” Allaah makes it clear in this Surah that he has neither granted any wife the status of her husband’s mother nor has He granted any adopted child the status of a biological child. Allaah says that adopted children will retain the name of their biological fathers and should not be referred to as the children of the adoptive father. Allaah says about Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) and his wives, “The Prophet (sallallaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) has a greater relationship with the believers than even their own selves, and his wives are their mothers.” [verse 6] In verse 19 Allaah speaks about those people who refuse o participate in jihaad for fear of jihaad itself or for fear of death. Allaah says about them: “These are the ones who do not believe, so Allaah annihilates their deeds.” Towards the end of the Surah Allaah tells people, “There is definitely an excellent example in Allaah’s messenger (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) for the one who fears Allaah and the Last Day, and remembers Allaah abundantly.” [verse 21] May Allaah make us practise habitually upon the teachings of the Shari'ah and have perfect trust in Him. May He cast us into the mould of Islam and allow us to follow in the footsteps of Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam). Aameen.

Sūrah al-Mu’minūn Reflections on Falāḥ (Success) This sūrah begins with the promise of falāḥ for the believers who have certain qualities. It ends with the categorical assertion that non-believers will not get falāḥ. The first eleven āyahs specify the type of person who will definitely achieve falāḥ. Translated as success, falāḥ signifies a state where a person’s every wish comes true and at the same he is protected from everything undesirable. This point is also made explicit in other āyahs. “We have been your friends in the worldly life, and (will remain as such) in the Hereafter. And for you here is whatever your souls desire, and for you here is whatever you call for.” “And there will be whatever souls desire and that which eyes enjoy. And you will be living in it forever.” The point to ponder is that if everyone can get all their wishes fulfilled, this could also potentially lead to chaos. People, after all, are capable of harboring wild wishes! The answer is that only those people will be admitted to Paradise who can handle such a privilege with responsibility, who have purified themselves thoroughly and developed a personality that is qualified to get such a blank check. Paradise is an exclusive place. Not in the sense that it is reserved for a specific race or nationality or color or economic standing. But in the sense that it is meant only for those who have developed the required personal qualities. It is a beautiful place, more beautiful than the most beautiful place the human mind can even imagine. It is meant for people who have developed an inner beauty. Unlike physical beauty which may be inherited, this is the beauty of the soul which is to be acquired—through the purification of one’s intentions and actions. The qualities mentioned in this sūrah (āyah 1-11) should be read with this perspective in mind. This is not a disjointed list of some things that believers are supposed to do; the qualities paint the portrait of the God fearing and God conscious personality that is always seeking good and avoiding evil. We should be judging ourselves not only on the specific qualities listed here but also on how close we are to that ideal personality to see how far we are from true and eternal success. Qualities for Attaining Falāḥ The listed qualities are: A) They are believers. This is the key quality. The success in the Hereafter belongs only to the believers. The point is further emphasized in the end of this sūrah, where it says: “Lo! Disbelievers will not be successful.” Paradise is not something that will be given away to those who do not even believe in it and are not even seeking it. B) They concentrate their attention in humbleness when offering ṣalāh (prayers). This is the state of their prayer. Concentration and humbleness mark it, and with the frequency of ṣalāh in their daily life, make these the overriding parts of their personality. C) They keep themselves away from vain things. They stay away not only from sins, but also from vain pursuits and useless and purposeless activities. They know the value of their time and their resources and do not waste any of them on things that will not contribute to their success. D) They are performers of Zakāh. This refers to self purification as well as the purification of one’s wealth through the charitable donation normally known as Zakāh. E) They guard their chastity. They stay away from all extramarital sex and things that can lead to it. F) They honestly look after their trusts and covenants. They are a people for whom talk is not cheap. When they give their word, they honor it. Their pledges are solid. They are honorable people in their dealings with everyone. G) They (strictly) guard their prayers.The desirable traits are bracketed with references to ṣalāh, thus indicating that it is the pillar of the successful personality. A Muslim negligent in his prayers is far from the model of success that Islam espouses. Qur'an Reflections Al-Balagh

Are watching cartoons and animated movies permissible? what is the ruling on watching cartoons and animated movies and playing games ? Answer In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. The permissibility of digital photography and videos is a highly contested issue amongst contemporary ‘Ulamā. Whilst many ‘Ulamā permit this, many others consider it to be the same as typical photography, hence deeming it impermissible. However, there are many other aspects to be considered in cartoons and games that are often overlooked. Cartoons have proved to be extremely detrimental to a child’s health by many researchers and psychologists. Some of the points deduced from these researches are as follows: Children may become less sensitive to the pain and suffering of others. Children who watch violence neither fear violence nor are they bothered by violence in general. Children are more likely to become aggressive or resort to harmful actions towards others. High levels of violence in cartoons can make children more aggressive. Animated shows aimed at youngsters often have more brutality than programmes broadcast for general audiences.[1] Children have grown much more interested in cartoons in recent years and it has become the main pastime for them; whereas previously children spent their time in outdoor activities playing with their peers and enjoying different games. Children who consistently spend more than 4 hours a day watching TV are more likely to be overweight and are prone to violence. Kids who see violent acts are more likely to show aggressive behavior and also may fear that the world is scary and that something bad will happen to them. These children are impatient and disobedient. Increases their appetite for more violence in entertainment and in real life. Cartoon violence is damaging to the children because they cannot tell the difference between real life and fiction.The American Academy of Pediatrics (AAP) and the American Academy of Child and Adolescent Psychiatry (AACAP) both believe that TV does influence the behavior of children as young as one year old. “Children who view shows in which violence is very realistic, frequently repeated or unpunished are more likely to imitate what they see,” AACAP says. This speaks to the impressionable minds of children, who are still learning control of their minds and bodies, and are likely to mimic what they see. AACAP also stresses the need for parents to keep a close eye on what their children watch. “Parents must be there,” AACAP said.[2] Children who watch too much cartoons on television are more likely to have mental and emotional problems, along with brain and eye injuries and unexpectedly the risk of a physical problem increases. From the time children start school to the time that they graduate they are averaged to spend around 18,000 hours watching television. · A tremendous amount of childhood involvement with electronic media can limit social interaction and may obstruct the development of a brain’s social systems. In December 1997, an episode of the Japanese cartoon “Pocket Monster” (later renamed “Pokémon” for international distribution) drew worldwide attention after multiple cases of children suffering seizures after watching the episode were reported (Warner, 2004). “Either high-speed flashes of light or rapid color changes are thought able to induce seizures in vulnerable individuals.” They found this to be the reason for so many seizures in Japan. “Rapid changing stimuli can play havoc with the special cells in the retina called rods and cones that help the eye transmit visual information to the brain.” Cartoons are displaying false sense of reality upon children. At a young age, this false sense of reality can really affect them. The risk of injury rose by about 34% in the children studied. Cartoon makers are intentionally brainwashing their children by secretly placing messages never to be deciphered by the conscious mind, but instead propagating the subconscious, into behaving a certain way. This practice is known as subliminal messaging.[3] It is clear and evident from the points mentioned above that the dilemma does not lie simply in the content of the cartoon but in the harms concomitant to it as well. It is a basic principle in Islam to keep our distance from anything that may reciprocate harm. Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘Alayhi Wasallam mentioned: لَا ضَرَرَ وَلَا ضِرَارَ “There should be neither harming nor reciprocating harm.”[4] These were only the harms confirmed and verified by the scientists. There are many other factors that cartoons contain which Shari’ah deems to by impermissible. Consider the following: Music Subliminal messages making the intermingling with the opposite gender seem normal Justification to the exposure of the satr Instilling immorality within one’s self Inculcating the traits and qualities of the Kuffār Wasting time. Time is very precious according to Islam. Promotion of the many evils viewed in the cartoon Offensive language alcohol and drugs Disrespect to the parents, teachers and elders. Vulgarity Violence It is clear from the above; the harms of watching cartoons are too obvious.[5] And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best AbdulMannan Nizami Student Darul Iftaa Chicago, IL, USA Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. www.daruliftaa.net

Understanding Television What Can Be Done? By Khalid Baig Television has spread like a wild fire in the world, including the Muslim world. It seems to have overcome the limitations of space and time. Consider place. In Saudi Arabia, one can find the imprints of Hollywood only a few yards away from the Haram, the most sacred of all sanctuaries of Islam. Videocassettes are easily available at stores. A hotel attendant, at a walking distance from the Haram al-Sharif in Makkah can be found busy watching English movies on the television in his office even as the prayers are going on. At the Jeddah airport, the Umrah pilgrims can watch a European beauty contest courtesy of an Egyptian TV channel being broadcast to the airport television sets. Consider time. Ramadan is the most sacred month in the Islamic calendar, a period of time that is to be devoted to direct acts of worship of Allah. Yet, during Ramadan, believers around the world can be found glued to their television sets when they should be busy making dua, doing dhikr and tilawa or offering nafl prayers. Or consider the time of suffering. Hardly a day goes by when we do not get the news of pain and suffering from Palestine, Kashmir, Iraq, Chechnya, Afghanistan, or a dozen other hot spots around the globe. Yet, between all the suffering and grieving that accompanies the tragedy, the dish antennas on the rooftops have been flourishing. In the past at times of catastrophes people would turn to Allah, would stop going to the cinema houses, and would repent from sins, even though temporarily. Today, there is an ever-increasing appetite for the television fun. This is also true in the lands closest to the areas of suffering. On days when a strike is called to protest Indian atrocities in Kashmir, the video stores in Karachi run out of videos of Indian movies. Throughout the world religious, moral and social values have been drastically undermined by this great "technological gift" of the century. And entire nations seem to be helplessly "enjoying" the invasion. When people are doing nothing, they watch television. When they are doing something else, they still have television in the background. The device has contributed to the addition of a new space in the architecture of the private home: the TV lounge. It is a space where perfect strangers come to pedal nudity, immorality, and hedonism. This is the space, which increasingly controls the entire house. It is fashionable to complain about "excessive" sex and violence on television. Even those who make money from this enterprise willingly do that. CNN tycoon Ted Turner said in July 93 before a U.S Congressional subcommittee: "I don't need experts to tell me that the amount of violence on television today and its increasingly graphic portrayal can be harmful to children. Television violence is the single most significant factor contributing to violence in America." And a poll released in February 95 in the U.S. by Children Now, whose directors include TV producers and Warner Brothers Chairman, reported that most children believe that what they see on television encourages fornication, disrespect for parents, telling lies, and aggressive behavior. The most significant thing here is that what the TV industry wants us to discuss (and we willingly follow) is what is ON television, not television itself. Everyone will wholeheartedly agree with the problems with TV programs and offer all kinds of advice. (Watch the programs with your children. Tell them what is wrong. Be critical. Be creative.) Irrational and meaningless as it is, this exercise will nonetheless soothe your irritation. In the meantime, keep on watching. It is fun. It is also unavoidable. In about two decades, this "wonderful" technical development has played havoc with societies around the globe. But what is even more unprecedented is the ambivalence with which these societies face this greatest of all invasions. Underlying this is a strongly held belief that television is a neutral tool that can be used with equal facility for good or evil. Unfortunately, this position has been taken without any critical examination of the facts. It is about time that we approached the subject with an open mind.Neutral Tool? Is technology ever neutral? "[Every technology] has within its physical form a predisposition toward being used in certain ways and not others," writes Niel Postman, chair of the department of Communication Arts at New York University. "Only those who know nothing of the history of technology believe that a technology is entirely neutral." (Amusing Ourselves to Death, 1985). What about television? It reflects the idea that serious discourse can be carried out through pictures instead of words. As Postman explains: "The single most important fact about television is that people watch it, which is why it is called ‘television.' And what they watch, and like to watch, are moving pictures?? millions of them, of short duration and dynamic variety. It is in the nature of the medium that it must suppress the content of ideas in order to accommodate the requirements of visual interest." Words and pictures do not occupy the same universe of discourse. A piece of writing requires one to go beyond the shape of the letters to read them. It requires thought to understand what is being said. Television does not require reflection, in fact it does not even permit it. That is why little children can spend hours in front of the mini screen. Television can titillate, it cannot teach. It can bring images into our heart, not ideas into our mind. It appeals to the emotions, not the intellect. But isn't a picture worth a thousand words? Is it? It is important to note that this claim itself is made in words. A picture cannot make any claims. For reason, arguments, claims, and judgment belong in the universe of words not pictures. That is why advertisers love pictures. Consider an ad for, say, Coca-Cola, that just shows young people singing, dancing, having fun, and enjoying the drink. The audiences make the connection between happiness and Coke. This ad cannot be refuted. It makes no claim, so there is nothing to refute.Medium Is The Message The above explains Marshal McLuhan's famous aphorism. The inherent, built in biases of a medium allow certain types of messages and not others. The communication is conditioned by the medium. It is enhanced or distorted by it. The medium is the message. And when the medium is TV, the message is Entertainment. As Postman notes: "Entertainment is the supra ideology of all discourse on television." Whether it is news, science, religion, or education, if it is happening on TV, it must follow the dictates of entertainment. In fact, a new term has been coined indicating a blend of education and entertainment: Edutainment. It smells like the language problem of a TV baby. But remember that it is already being used by the serious press. Which suggests that edutainment will produce even more edutainment!Like A Drug Actually, TV is not just another kind of entertainment either. As a project by the National Institute of Mental Health in the U.S. involving 1200 subjects in nine studies over a 13 year period found in 1990, television is like a drug. The researchers asked the subjects, ages 10 to 82, to note down their activities and moods every time a beeper was activated, which was done randomly. The researchers found that when people sit down to watch TV, particularly for long periods, they tend to be in low moods. The longer they watch, the less able they are to concentrate. As time goes on, they grow sadder, lonelier, more irritable, and more hostile. Although people are relaxed when the television set is on, when they turn it off, they are less relaxed than before they began, "much like a drug that makes people feel better while they are doing it but worse afterward." And just like a drug the weaker segments of the society are its greatest target. Thus in the U.S. blacks tend to watch more TV than whites. And now thanks to satellite TV transmissions over which the poor countries have no control, the rest of the world is being turned into the U.S. black under class.Islamic Work And Television Can this dangerous drug be somehow converted into a medicine? Not too long ago, a young professional in the U.S. approached prominent Muslim scholar and Deputy Cairman of the Jeddah based Islamic Fiqh Council of the Organization of Islamic Conference (OIC), Justice Taqi Usmani to inquire about his profession. He produced computer graphics for the television and motion picture industry. This is the age of the media, and the only effective way to spread Islam today is through television and movies, he argued. If we do not learn the trade how shall we be able to produce such programs and if we don't who will, he inquired. Yet, some people had told him that it was not a good profession. "I have given a lot of anxious thought to this issue," replied Justice Usmani in his characteristic measured tone, weighing every word. "And I have reached the conclusion that the cause of Islam cannot be served through television, especially under the current circumstances. You should seek another line of work." Frankly, there are lot of enthusiasts who may be totally bewildered by this answer for it challenges both conventional wisdom as well as some dearly held dreams. They may even consider anyone making this suggestion as belonging to the Flat Earth Society: backward, anti-progress, ignorant of today's realities. Let us grant them their day in court and look at their case objectively. The enthusiasts have shown interest in three primary areas. The first deals with propagation of Islam. There are lots of sincere Muslims putting lot of hope in a yet-to-be-released video that will attract the people of the world to Islam by the thousands. They are simply confusing Dawah with propaganda! Dawah means inviting people to the Straight Path by relaying the True Message to them without any distortion. It is a very serious message and requires a serious medium to deliver it. The message is for their own benefit and what they do with it is their own business. Our job is done once we have communicated the message correctly. Our job is not to manipulate people into submission to Allah any more than it is to coerce them into it. A Dawah worker is a teacher, a propagandist is a manipulator. Television is a good tool for manipulating, not for teaching. The second area deals with the education ("edutainment") of children. Many videos have already been produced for this purpose. In one program from a popular series of such videos, a puppet named Adam drives a skateboard to the mosque. Scenes of Adam doing his antics are mixed with the videos of real children praying. But there is no doubt that Adam is the hero of this story. Here is a clear case of the medium distorting the message. The children who learn to pray this way may learn the mechanics of Salat, but they would have paid a terrible price for it. The idea of Salat will be associated in their mind with the images of puppets, skateboards, and the idea of fun. Missing will be the spiritual dimension of prayer, the solemnness and grace of this pillar of Islam. Such videos are very popular as they help assuage the guilt feelings of parents over their failure to control the TV in the first place. To be fair there is a useful role for these videos but it is not normally perceived. Doctors use nicotine patches to help their patients stop smoking. Nicotine is not a medicine, but it becomes therapeutic under the circumstances. Similarly, the TV addicts may be helped by such videos to get over their addiction. It might work if that is the goal. But this is very different from the view that here is a Brave New Way of teaching Islam. The children and their parents must realize that ultimately they have to learn their religion the old fashioned way: read books, listen to lectures, work hard. The third type of videos are used by relief organizations showing the terrible situation of Muslims in Kashmir, Bosnia, Palestine and elsewhere. The intentions are noble, the results look great. But someone must ask the hard question: Why should the Muslims need disaster pornography before they can come to the help of their brothers and sisters? What are the implications of this practice for both present and future? There are, of course, cases where the TV is being used against its grain, where the only video is that of a talking head. Such Islamic programs in Egypt or Saudi Arabia, as elsewhere, may not contain all the dangers cited above, solely because there the TV is being used just as an expensive radio. The problem is such programs will not be able to withstand the onslaught of CNN or MTV, of dazzling colors and dynamic pictures. The question remains how long can you use a tool against its grain? The simple fact is that no one buys a TV and VCR because they desperately wanted to learn about Islam and it was the best way of doing it. The TV lounge is not a study room and all the Islamic videos in the world are not going to make it one. It is a peace of Hollywood. The rest is camouflage or self-deception. The earlier we get out of it, the better.What Can Be Done?Television is powerful. It is everywhere. Is there anything that us mortals can do about it? The answer is yes. Things can be done at individual, as well as collective levels. At the individual level, try using the ON/OFF switch. It takes some effort and will power, but the device can be turned off. The key is to involve the entire family. Those nervous about the idea may rest assured that there is no known disease linked to lack of exposure to TV! Also those who have tried it know that it becomes easier with time. Community Organizations and Islamic Schools can help by educating the people about the perils of watching TV, countering the social pressures, and providing healthy alternatives. Ramadan: The TV Free Month. Our best chance of kicking the television habit comes in Ramadan every year. It is the time of year when every Muslim who has any trace of Iman in his or her heart, is naturally inclined toward doing good and staying away from evil. And it should be like that. Did not the Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, curse the Muslim who finds Ramadan but does not use it to seek forgiveness for his previous sins? If we cannot leave sins or vain activities during Ramadan, when can we? We not only have the strongest moral and religious reasons to do so, it is also easy because the regular activities of Ramadan leave little time to be wasted in front of television. Muslim organizations and communities will do a great service by launching a campaign to declare Ramadan as the TV free month. Urge all the Muslims in your community to turn it off for at least one month. And who knows, after one month many may decide to stay away from it because of the personal insights they got through the experience. Of course, if you are convinced, do not wait until the next Ramadan. Start today. By Khalid Baig Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net

The Search for Laylatul Qadr Hazrat Aisha Radhiyallahu Anha reports Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, “Search for the Night of Power in the odd nights of the last ten nights of Ramadhan.”(Bukhari) Hazrat Aisha Radhiyallahu Anha once asked Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam, “If I find Laylatul Qadr, what Dua should I recite?” Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam replied: اَللّٰهُمَّ إِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي “O Allah! Verily You are most forgiving. You love to forgive, therefore forgive me.” (Tirmizi) Hazrat Anas Radhiyallahu Anhu reports that Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, “When Laylatul Qadr occurs, Jibraeel Alayhis Salaam descends with a very large group of angels onto earth, making Dua-e-Rahmah (mercy) for those engaged in Salaah, remembrance of Allah and other acts of worship.” (Mazhari)

Taking Zakaah beyond Ramadaan by Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (rahmatullah alayh) Alhamdulillah, we find that with the commencement of Ramadaan, thousands of Muslims begin to contribute to different noble causes – whether these are specific for Ramadaan, such as providing Iftaar, Sehri or hampers for the poor, or whether in respect to the general efforts made to alleviate the plight of those who are suffering in different parts of the world. …So monies begin to pour in by way of Zakaah, Sadaqah and Lillah – Alhamdulillah. May Allah Ta’ala accept the different contributions. There is, however, one shortfall when it comes to the payment of Zakaah, and that is, that the majority choose to give their Zakaah in the month of Ramadaan, thinking that they are getting a greater reward giving in Ramadaan; whereas for many, their Zakaah was sometimes due months before. This deliberate delay in payment of Zakaah makes the person a faasiq (an open transgressor). …Even though one is paying later and that too, in the blessed month of Ramadaan, one reaches Ramadaan and one enters Ramadaan, as a flagrant sinner. Allah Ta’ala save us and forgive us. The setback to this pattern and tendency is that we have an overwhelming amount of Zakaah and charity paid out in the month of Ramadaan. And since Zakaah is something which needs to be distributed and discharged as soon as possible, we find that for the next 11 months, many organisations do not have such funds to continue their assistance to the poor and needy – because of the imbalance created. If everyone paid his or her Zakaah timeously, when it is due – whether Muharram, Safar, Rabiul Awwal, Rajab, instead of all being given out in the month of Ramadaan – then some equilibrium would be established in the discharge of Zakaah and in the assistance rendered to the poor and needy for the remaining year. Moreover, this payment of Zakaah in its correct time, should not thereafter make the giver negligent in spending in other avenues at other times. We should increase our generosity in the month of Ramadaan and also spend whenever and wherever there may be a call for assistance – and that spending should be from our wealth. …Because Zakaah is not our wealth. It does not belong to us, that we can keep and use as we wish. It rightfully belongs to the poor. It is their wealth. So we should be giving from our own wealth, over and above Zakaah. Furthermore, when giving Zakaah or Sadaqah, then it is very important to keep in mind, the dignity of the recipient and to give with respect and consideration. Many people consider that they are doing a favour to the poor and needy when giving charity, and they do so in a manner which demeans and debases the poor and needy. Let us understand this point: We are in need of them. The reality is that we are the needy ones, for if there were no poor, needy and destitute people in the world, to whom would we give our Zakaah and discharge that due? To whom would we give our Sadaqaat and draw rewards? Moreover, Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi waSallam) described the poor as ‘very rich people’ and directed us to keep contact with them and spend on them because on the Day of Judgment they will be told to lead every such person who favoured them, into Jannah. Other Ahaadeeth describe how, in the Hereafter, the poor will be the ones who will come to the assistance of those who did them a good turn in the worldly life. The poor will thus become the means of najaat (salvation) for many who may have been very wealthy in this worldly life. They may even be the ones who will hold our hands and take us with them into Jannah. Thus, we need to be conscious and mindful of the dignity and self-respect of the poor. They too have a right to respect. May Allah Ta’ala grant us this understanding, grant us the Taufeeq to practice accordingly, grant us sincerity in our spending and accept our Zakaah, Sadaqaat and other humble efforts to please Him. Source

Pornography - Preventative Measures

If there was thumbs up emoticon, i would use at least three...hmm maybe we should have it here

No issue at all. If unclear we will ask for clarification Allah ta'ala accept everyone's efforts and make it a means of benefit for all of us in both worlds. Jazaakallaah

16th Night Taraweeh Summary This Taraaweeh begins from the last quarter of the 19th para (from verse 7 of Surah Naml) and finishes off at the end of the 20th para (verse 44 of Surah Ankaboot). Allaah relates the detail incidents of Hadhrat Dawood (A.S) and Hadhrat Sulaymaan (A.S). The stories of these two illustrious Ambiya (A.S) begins with verse 15 where Allaah says, “Indeed We granted knowledge to Dawood and Sulaymaan.” Amongst the many bounties that Allaah conferred on them was that He taught them the language of the birds and also granted them control over the Jinn, humans, animals and birds. Allaah recounts these incidents so that people may learn lessons and realise the power of Allaah. Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the 16th night of Taraaweeh Download Now End 19th Para - Start 20th Para Allaah also declares, “Say, ‘None in the heavens and the earth has knowledge of the unseen besides Allaah. They do not even know when they will be resurrected (for the Day of Qiyaamah).” [verse 65] None besides Allaah has knowledge of when Qiyaamah will take place. However people are assured that “Indeed your Rabb knows what their hearts conceal and what they disclose.” [verse 74] Towards the end of the Surah Allaah describes the scene of Qiyaamah when He says, “The day when the trumpet will be blown and all within the heavens and the earth will be terrified, except those whom Allaah wills. They will all come to Allaah in humility. You will look at the mountains, thinking them to be solid, but they will be passing by like clouds. This is the doing of Allaah, Who perfects everything. Indeed He is Informed of what you do. Whoever brings a good deed, shall receive something better. And they will be safe from the terror of that day. Whoever brings a sin, they will fall on their faces in the Fire. ‘You are only recompensed for what you have perpetrated.” [verses 87 to 90] In concluding the Surah Allaah assures man, “Your Rabb is not unaware of what you do.” [verse 93] Every person should therefore be wary of whatever he does. Surah Qasas commences after Surah Shu’araa and recounts the entire incident of Hadhrat Moosa (A.S) and Fir'oun. The Surah also makes mention of Qaaroon and his immense fortune, which caused him to become extremely arrogant. As a result of his attitude Allaah caused the ground to swallow him up along with all his wealth. Allaah then tells Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) that he is informed of these narratives so that he may caution the kuffaar. If they take heed, they stand a chance of being saved from Allaah’s terrible punishment. If not, they stand to face an awful doom. Allaah then prompts the kuffaar to think a while. Allaah says, “Say, ‘Tell me. If Allaah makes the night perpetual for you till the Day of Qiyamah, which deity besides Him can bring light to you? Can you not hear?’ Say, ‘Tell me. If Allaah makes the day perpetual for you till the Day of Qiyamah, which deity besides Him can bring night to you, wherein you may find peace? Can you not see?” [verses 71/2] Allaah states further in verse 73, “Due to His mercy, He has created the day and the night for you so that you may find peace therein, seek from His bounty, and express your gratitude to Him.” Allaah exhorts his Prophet (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) not to be grieved about the opposition that the kuffaar pose because everything in this world is temporary. To highlight the transitory nature of the effects of this world, Allaah cites the example of Qaaroon. His people advised him saying, “Do not be boastful, for verily Allaah does not like the boastful ones.” [verse 76] Allaah says further, “So he emerged amongst his people in pomp and splendour. Those who desired the world gaped, ‘If only we also possessed what Qaaroon has! Undoubtedly, he is extremely fortunate. Those who were granted knowledge said, ‘Woe to you! Allaah’s rewards are better for the one who believes and does good deeds. Only the patient ones shall receive this.” [verses 79 and 80] As a result of his pride and failure to fulfil the obligatory rights of his riches, Allaah “plunged Qaaroon and his home within the ground.” [verse 81] This incident proves that everything besides Allaah shall perish even though a thing may seem very great. The Surah also ends on the note of Tauheed where Allaah says, “Do not call to another deity with Allaah. There is none worthy of worship besides Him. Everything shall perish besides His Countenance. All decisions rest with Him and to Him shall you all be returned.” [verse 88] Surah Ankaboot follows Surah Qasas and it beautifully distinguishes between the true Mu'mineen and the Munafiqeen as well as between those who are true and those who are false. The narratives of many Ambiya (A.S) are also related. Allaah begins the Surah by stating, “Do people think that they will be left to say, ‘We believe!’ without being tested? We certainly tested those before them, and Allaah will definitely know about those who are true and He will definitely know the liars.” [verses 2 & 3] Although Allaah has commanded man to be obedient to his parents, Allaah mentions in this Surah that parents should not be obeyed if they attempt to induce one to forsake Islam. “The creation cannot be obeyed if the Creator would be disobeyed.” Allaah says, “The disbelievers say to the believers, ‘Follow our way and we will bear the burden of your sins.’ They will not carry any part of their sins. They are certain liars.” [verse 12] Allaah then cites the incident of Hadhrat Nooh (A.S) who preached to his nation for 950 years. Despite his tireless efforts the vast majority of them refused to accept his message and were eventually drowned in the flood. Allaah then speaks of the annihilation of the nations of Hadhrat Ibraheem (A.S), Hadhrat Loot (A.S) and Hadhrat Shu’aib (A.S). There are many lessons that the Mu'mineen may learn from all these narratives. May Allaah bless us with fear for Him, humility and abstinence. May Allaah save us from the evils of pride, arrogance and boastfulness; and imbue the belief of Tauheed within us. May He grant us the ability to exercise patience when tested and faces with adversities. Aameen. End 20th Para - Start 21st Para

15th Night Taraweeh Summary This Taraaweeh begins from the second half of the 18th para (from verse 21 of Surah Noor) and ends at the third quarter of the 19th para (verse 6 of Surah Naml). Allaah addresses the Mu'mineen saying, “Oh you who believe, do not follow the footsteps of shaytaan. Whoever follows the footsteps of shaytaan, then verily he commands immorality and evil.” [verse 21] Allaah also mentions, “We have surely revealed clear laws to you, some narratives of those who passed before you, and an advice for those who have taqwa (i.e. for those who have fear for Allaah).” [verse 34] In the next verse Allaah declares, “Allaah is the Light of the heavens and the earth.” A Mu'min is therefore one who will take light from Allaah to guide him through life and who will adhere to the teachings of the Ambiya (A.S) because “Those who oppose the messenger’s commands should beware that some calamity or a grievous punishment should afflict them.” [verse 63] Surah Furqaan follows Surah Noor. Allaah introduces the Surah by stating, “Blessed indeed is the Being Who revealed the Criterion upon His bondsman so that he may be a warner to the universe (that a severe punishment awaits the person who does not believe).” Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the 15th night of Taraaweeh Download Now End 18th Para - Start 19th Para Allaah tells Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) that he should not be distressed about the harassment of the kuffaar because “Your Rabb suffices as a Guide and a Helper.” [verse 31] Allaah also commands Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to tell the people that he requires no remuneration for his efforts at propagating. The only reward he desired was that people follow the straight path and become true bondsmen of Allaah who “walk on earth in humility and, when the ignorant talk to them, they say, ‘Peace.” [verse 63] This means that they do not enter into arguments with ignorant people and gracefully pass by them. Allaah then makes it clear that the true Mu'mineen will attain lofty ranks of Jannah while the kuffaar will be unable save themselves from Allaah’s punishment. Surah Shu’araa follows Surah Furqaan. This Surah contains the stories of Hadhrat Moosa (A.S) and Hadhrat Ibraheem (A.S), as well as mention of the destruction of the Aad, the Thamud and the nation of Hadhrat Nooh (A.S). Allaah also makes mention of the plight that evil poets who are constantly lost in their futile thoughts will suffer. Addressing Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam), Allaah states, “It seems like you will destroy yourself because they are not believing. If We willed, We would have revealed a great sign to them from the sky, causing their necks to bow before it in humility.” [verses 3 and 4] However, because the kuffaar have already refused to accept the truth, they will have to suffer the punishment for their obstinacy. Allaah then proceeds to recount approximately seven incidents, amongst these being the stories of Hadhrat Ibraheem (A.S), Hadhrat Nooh (A.S), Hadhrat Hood (A.S), Hadhrat Saalih (A.S), Hadhrat Loot (A.S) and Hadhrat Shu’aib (A.S). Each one of these incidents are a means of guidance for people, but there will still be many rejecters who refuse to believe in them and will mock at them. Allaah says, “They have certainly denied, so shortly the news of what they used to mock at will come to them.” [verse 6] The Mushrikeen claimed that Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) was a poet and that the Qur'aan was a composition of poetry. Allaah denies that the Qur'aan could ever be the work of a poet or a Jinn. Allaah concludes the Surah by saying, “Only deviated people follow the poets. Do you not see that they wander astray in every valley? And that they say things which they never do? Save for those (poets) who believe, do good deeds, remember Allaah abundantly and avenge themselves after being oppressed. Shortly the oppressors will come to know to which place they will return.” [verses 224 to 228] In this Taraaweeh only a part of Surah Naml is recited. Allaah states that the Qur'aan is “a guidance and a conveyor of glad tidings for the believers.” In this regard, the Surah proceeds to discuss the epics of Hadhrat Moosa (A.S), Hadhrat Dawood (A.S), Hadhrat Sulaymaan (A.S), the Aad and the Thamud. Allaah opens the Surah by saying, “These are the verses of the Qur'aan and a clear Book. (It is) a guidance and a conveyor of glad tidings for the believers; those who establish salaah, pay zakaah and are convinced about the Hereafter.” [verse 1, 2 and 3] Allaah further says that He has beautified the deeds of the kuffaar so that they continue to sin and earn multiple punishment for it. Allaah says about them, “For such people there shall be a terrible punishment and they will be the worst losers in the Hereafter.” [verse 5] Thereafter, Allaah addresses Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) saying, “Undoubtedly, you are given the Qur'aan from the Wise, the All Knowing.” [verse 6] May Allaah grant us all the capacity to follow Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) and may He save us from all sins; especially from those sins that were the cause for other nations to be destroyed. May He also afford us the consciousness to accept the Qur'aan as a fountainhead of guidance and our code of life. Aameen.

14th Night Taraweeh Summary This Taraaweeh begins from the second quarter of the 17th para (from verse 51 of Surah Ambiya) and ends halfway into the 18th para (verse 20 of Surah Noor). In the remaining verses of Surah Ambiya, Allaah discusses the various Ambiya (A.S) from Hadhrat Ibraheem (A.S) to Hadhrat Isa (A.S). Thereafter, Allaah says about Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam), “We have sent you as a mercy to the universe.” [verse 107] The next verse declares Tauheed when Allaah instructs Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) to “Say, ‘It has been revealed to me that your deity is but One Deity. So will you submit to this?” Surah Hajj follows Surah Ambiya and opens with a reminder of Qiyaamah. Allaah says, “Oh people! Fear your Rabb. The earthquake of Qiyamah is a tremendous thing indeed. The day when you will witness it, every nursing mother will forget her suckling infant and every pregnant woman will abort (because of intense fear). And you will see people in a drunken stupor whereas they will not be drunk, but Allaah’s punishment is severe.” [verses 1 and 2] Allaah also cautions those Mu'mineen whose faith is weak that they should make a concerted effort to strengthen their Imaan and carry out good deeds so that the welfare of their lives in this world and in the Hereafter is not jeopardised. Allaah says that it was Hadhrat Ibraheem (A.S) who termed this ummah as Muslimeen. Allaah also makes mention of the Kaa'ba and instructs “and perform tawaaf around the ‘Baitul Ateeq’ (the Kaa'ba).” [verse 29] Thereafter, certain rites of hajj are mentioned, about which Allaah states, “And whoever honours Allaah’s signs, then this is due to the taqwa of hearts.” [verse 32]. With regard to sacrificial animals on the occasion of hajj Allaah says, “Their flesh and blood will never reach Allaah, but it is your taqwa that will reach Him.” [verse 37] Allaah concludes the Surah with the following message to the Muslims: 77. “Oh you who believe, bow, prostrate, worship your Rabb and carry out good deeds so that you may be successful.” 78. “Strive for Allaah with the endeavour that is His right. He has chosen you and has not placed any hardship upon in religion. Follow the creed of your father, Ibraheem. It was him who named you Muslims from before and in this Qur'aan, so that the messenger (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) be a witness over you people, and that you be witnesses over mankind. So establish salaah, pay zakaah and hold fast to (the rope of) Allaah. He is your Protecting Friend. The Best Protecting Friend and the Best Helper.” [verses 77/8] Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the 14th night of Taraweeh Download Now End 17th - Start 18th Para These concluding words of Surah Hajj draw the 17th para to a close and lead to the opening verses of Surah Mu'minoon. At the beginning of this Surah Allaah describes those Mu'mineen whose beliefs are correct, who worship Allaah diligently and are also particular about fulfilling the rights of others. In describing the qualities of the Mu'mineen, Allaah exhorts all the Mu'mineen that they should sincerely worship Him, fulfil the promises and pledges they make with others and abstain from all acts of lechery. These are amongst the acts that will lead to eternal success. After discussing the qualities if the Mu'mineen, Allaah discusses the signs that denote His greatness and His oneness. Amongst these signs Allaah mentions the creation of man, the creation of the heavens and the earth, as well as the various plants and animals together with the milk that Allaah produces from their bellies. All these boons denote Allaah’s all encompassing mercy and compassion towards His creation, which should spur man to accept the belief of Tauheed. Allaah then cites the incident of Hadhrat Nooh (A.S) so that people may learn that success lies in following the teachings of Allaah’s Ambiya (A.S). Allaah also urges the Mu'mineen not to destroy their deeds by being proud and that their hearts should always be apprehensive of returning to Allaah for reckoning. Further describing the qualities of the Mu'mineen Allaah says, “These people hasten to perform good deeds and are the forerunners in this.” [verse 61] Allaah states a blanket rule when He says, “We do not burden any soul more than it can bear.” [verse 62] Allaah also tells Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) that the kuffaar will never cease to oppose him till their deaths, when they will regret their ways. However, it will then be too late. The 24th Surah of the Qur'aan, Surah Noor, commences after Surah Mu'minoon and contains verses that are pertinent to the morality of society. A gist of the Surah may be mentioned in the following twelve points: 1) A hundred lashes are to be metered out to any unmarried man or woman guilty of fornication. 2) Men and women guilty of fornication should be ostracised from society and none should marry them. 3) Eighty lashes should be metered out to anyone who accuses another of adultery or fornication without the required proof. 4) If a husband or a wife accuses their partner of adultery, each should take four oaths in Allaah’s name that s/he is truthful and that the other is lying. A fifth oath should then be taken by each of them invoking Allaah’s curse him/her if s/he is lying. 5) “Unchaste women are for unchaste men and unchaste men are for unchaste women. Pure women are for pure men and pure men are for pure women. These people are innocent of what the slanderers say. Theirs is forgiveness and a bounteous reward.” [verse 26] 6) An accused person will be regarded as innocent till proven guilty. 7) Never enter another person’s home without permission. 8) Men and women should neither stare at each other nor steal secretive glances at each other. 9) Women must never display their charms before men who are not close family members. 10) Islam does not approve of leading one’s life as a bachelor or a spinster. 11) During times of privacy, not even children are allowed to enter any person’s room without permission. 12) Even when the blind or paralysed eat from the homes of relatives without permission, it will not be regarded as theft. Allaah also discusses the incident of the slander against Hadhrat Aa'isha (R.A). In Surah Noor Allaah refutes the allegation of adultery that the Munafiqeen attributed to Hadhrat Aa'isha (R.A) and warned the Mu'mineen that they should never accept such rumours in future. May Allaah grant us all the guidance to practise on the teachings of Islam and refrain from immoral acts, slander, evil glances and all other sins. Aameen.

13th Night Taraweeh Summary This Taraaweeh commences from the beginning of the 16th para and ends after the first quarter of the 17th para (verse 50 of Surah Ambiya). This part of Surah Kahaf contains the incident of Dhul Qarnain whose kingdom was extremely extensive. He was a pious Mu'min who ruled very justly. It was during his reign that the barbaric tribes of Ya’jooj and Ma’jooj plundered other nations and wreaked havoc in their lives. Dhul Qarnain stemmed their tide of anarchy by erecting a wall of iron and copper at their exit between two mountains. He made it clear to the people there that it was only Allaah’s mercy that kept the wall from collapsing because it was merely a temporary object of this world. They were therefore to continue performing good deeds and purge their deeds of shirk. In this regard the final verse of the Surah reads: “So whoever aspires for the meeting with his Rabb should perform good deeds and not associate anyone as partner to the worship of his Rabb.” [verse 110] Surah Maryam follows Surah Kahaf. This Surah commences with mention of how Allaah blessed Hadhrat Zakariyyah (A.S) with a child after he had already advanced in age. His son was Hadhrat Yahya (A.S), who was a soft-hearted Nabi who possessed a decisive sense of judgement. Thereafter Allaah relates the epic of Hadhrat Maryam (A.S) when she miraculously gave birth to Hadhrat Isa (A.S) without a father. Many other Ambiya (A.S) are mentioned thereafter. The objective of mentioning these Ambiya (A.S) is to impress upon people’s minds that all the Ambiya (A.S) brought the same message that Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) brought. However, depravity crept into the lives of people through the passage of time and they resorted to kufr and shirk. Towards the end of the Surah Allaah declares that it is profane to say that He has children because it does not behove His loftiness and grandeur to have any children. Claiming that Allaah has children is an open invitation to His wrath and punishment. Surah TaaHaa follows Surah Maryam. At the very outset Allaah addresses Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) saying, “We have not revealed the Qur'aan to you to cause you difficulty. However, it is an advice for him who fears.” Allaah has not charged Rasululllaah (sallAllaahu-alayhi-wa-sallam) with forcing people to believe when they do not want to. The Qur'aan will be of benefit to those who fear that Allaah will take them to task for their sins. Thereafter, Allaah narrates the incident of Hadhrat Moosa (A.S). The Surah mentions the following events in Hadhrat Moosa (A.S)’s life: _ When he is conferred the mantle of prophethood on the plain of Tuwa. _ His miracles of the staff and shining hand. _ His upbringing in Fir'oun’s palace. _ His preaching to Fir'oun. _ His contest against the magicians. _ His departure from Egypt with the Bani Israa'eel. _ Fir'oun and his army pursue them and are eventually drowned. _ The Bani Israa'eel treachery and disobedience of the Bani Israa'eel which leads them to take a calf as their deity. Thereafter the Surah speaks about Qiyaamah and urges the performance of salaah. Towards the end of the Surah Allaah says to the Mu'mineen, “Never strain your eyes towards the splendour of the worldly life and the wives that We have granted the disbelievers to enjoy, to test them therewith. The provision of your Rabb is best and more lasting.” [verse 131] Hear Mufti A Hoosen Elias audio summary of the 13th night of Taraaweeh Download Now End 16th Para - Start 17th Para The next Surah is Surah Ambiya, which derives its name from the fact that it mentions a series of Ambiya (A.S). The Surah also cautions people against being negligent about Qiyaamah and reckoning. Allaah mentions that the Qur'aan contains every type of advice and explanation for mankind. They therefore have a choice before them and can project the consequences of their deeds. None can ever save himself from Allaah’s punishment when it comes, and people will be foolish to pin their hopes in their fabricated gods. People will be called to account for every minute deed – even and act the size of a mustard seed will be weighed in the scale of deeds. Allaah’s judgement on the Day of Qiyaamah will be final and binding. May Allaah grant us all the Taufeeq to practise. Aameen.

InshaAllah your plea for help becomes a means of guidance for yourself and many more, so I have taken the liberty to edit the title so others can benefit inshaAllah and I would like to add the following which I heard form Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat of the Islamic Da'wah Academy... Those who err and remember Allah! Regarding verse 3: 135 وَالَّذِينَ إِذَا فَعَلُوا فَاحِشَةً أَوْ ظَلَمُوا أَنفُسَهُمْ ذَكَرُوا اللَّهَ فَاسْتَغْفَرُوا لِذُنُوبِهِمْ وَمَن يَغْفِرُ الذُّنُوبَ إِلَّا اللَّهُ وَلَمْ يُصِرُّوا عَلَىٰ مَا فَعَلُوا وَهُمْ يَعْلَمُونَ And those who if they made/did an enormous/atrocious deed , they caused injustice (to) themselves, they mentioned/remembered God, so they asked for forgiveness for their crimes, and who forgives the crimes except God? And they did not insist/persist on what they made/did, and they know The respected shaykh said we all err however the friends of Allah are those who when they err, they ذَكَرُوا اللَّهَ "Remember Allah". They turn to him and make the connection strong once more. They are not proud....and Who forgive sins except Allah ta'ala?

Quran Tafsir Ibn Kathir Suratul Kahf (The Cave)

Secrets Of Surah Al-Kahf Ever wondered why Prophet Muhammad(SAW) asked us to recite Surat Al-Kahf every Friday? Let’s find out today inshaAllah… This Surah has Four stories in it,having some morals,lets see them and understand what they are saying to us: 1) The People Of The Cave Its the story of young men who lived in a disbelieving town, so they decided to migrate for the sake of Allah and run away. -Allah rewards them with mercy in the cave and protection from the sun - They woke up and found the entire village believers. MORAL:TRIAL OF FAITH. 2) The Owner Of Two Gardens A story of a man whom Allah blessed with two beautiful gardens, but the man forgot to thank the One who blessed him with everything and he even dared to doubt Allah regarding the afterlife. So His garden was destroyed - He regretted, but was too late and his regret did not benefit him . MORAL:TRIAL OF WEALTH. 3) Musa(AS) and Khidr(AS) When Musa(AS) was asked-“Who’s the most knowledgeable of the people of earth?”” Musa(AS) said:Me…, but Allah revealed to him that there’s someone who Knows more than him. Musa(AS) traveled to the man and learnt how the Divine Wisdom can sometimes be hidden in matters which we perceive as bad. MORAL:TRIAL OF KNOWLEDGE. 4) Dhul-Qarnayn Its a story of the great King that was given knowledge and power and was going around the world, helping people and spreading all that’s good. He was able to overcome the problem of Yajooj-Majooj and build a massive dam with the help of people whom he could not even understand. MORAL:TRIAL OF POWER. In the middle Allah mentions Iblees as the one who stirs these trials: Behold! We said to the angels “Bow down to Adam”: they bowed down except Iblis. He was one of the Jinns, and he broke the Command of his Lord. Will ye then take him and his progeny as protectors rather than Me? And they are enemies to you! Evil would be the exchange for the wrongdoers! Now let us see what’s the relationship between Surat Al-Kahf and the Dajjal (Anti-Christ)? Dajjal will appear before Day of Judgement with the 4 trials: ***He’ll ask people to worship him and not Allah: Trial of Faith . ***He’ll be given powers to start/stop rain and tempt people with his wealth: Trial of with his Wealth. . ***He’ll try people with the “knowledge” and news he gives them: Trial of Knowledge . ***He’ll control huge parts of the Earth. Trial of Power . How to survive these trials? The answers are in Surat Al-Kahf: Survival Kit 1: Good companionship. “And keep thy soul content with those who call on their Lord morning and evening, seeking His Face; and let not thine eyes pass beyond them, seeking the pomp and glitter of this Life; no obey any whose heart We have permitted to neglect the remembrance of Us, one who follows his own desires, whose case has gone beyond all bounds.” (Surat Al-Kahf, verse 28) Survival Kit 2: Knowing the Truth of this World . “Set forth to them the similitude of the life of this world: It is like the rain which we send down from the skies: the earth’s vegetation absorbs it, but soon it becomes dry stubble, which the winds do scatter: it is (only) Allah who prevails over all things” (Surat Al-Kahf, verse 45) Survival Kit 3: Humbleness. “Moses said: “Thou wilt find me, if Allah so will, (truly) patient: nor shall I disobey thee in aught.””(Surat Al-Kahf, verse 69) Survival Kit 4: Sincerity. “Say: “I am but a man like yourselves, (but) the inspiration has come to me, that your Allah is one Allah. whoever expects to meet his Lord, let him work righteousness, and, in the worship of his Lord, admit no one as partner.” (Surat Al- Kahf, verse 110) Survival Kit 5: Calling to Allah . “And recite (and teach) what has been revealed to thee of the Book of thy Lord: none can change His Words, and none wilt thou find as a refuge other than Him.” (Surat Al-Kahf, verse 27) Survival Kit 6: Remembering the HereAfter . “ One Day We shall remove the mountains, and thou wilt see the earth as a level stretch, and We shall gather them, all together, nor shall We leave out any one of them. And they will be marshalled before thy Lord in ranks, (with the announcement), “Now have ye come to Us (bare) as We created you first: aye, ye thought We shall not fulfil the appointment made to you to meet (Us)!”: And the Book (of Deeds) will be placed (before you); and thou wilt see the sinful in great terror because of what is (recorded) therein; they will say, “Ah! woe to us! what a Book is this! It leaves out nothing small or great,but takes account thereof !” They will find all that they did, placed before them: And not one will thy Lord treat with injustice.” (Surat Al-Kahf, verses 47-49) Abu Darda' ~ may Allah be pleased with him ~ related that the Holy Prophet said, " One who memorized the first ten verses of Suratul Kahf will be secure against the Dajjal. Another version says: "One who commits to his memory the last 10 verses of this surah will remain immune from the Dajjal. Source

What is the Link Between Sura al-Kahf and the Dajjal? Answered by Ustadha Shaista Maqbool Question: I came across a hadith that mentions that whoever commits the first ten verses of Surat Al-Kahf to memory will be saved from the fitna of the Dajjal. What is the connection between Surat Al-Kahf and the Dajjal? Answer: Wa’alaikum assalaam warahmatu Allah, Imam Muslims narrates in his Sahih that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah upon him) said: “Whosoever memorizes 10 verses from the beginning of Surah al-Kahf will be protected from the tribulation of the Dajjal.” Imam Munawi in his Fayd al-Qadeer (commentary on Jami’ as-Saghir of Imam Suyuti) said: “It is because of what is in the story of the people of the cave of wonders, such that whoever knows these will not be amazed by the Dajjal and therefore, he will not be tried; or, whosoever ponders over these verses and contemplates their meanings will be weary of the Dajjal and therefore safe from him; or that this is a specialty given to this Surah…” And Allah knows best. wasalaam, Shaista Maqbool Checkec & Approved by Faraz Rabbani Source

Sūrah Al-Kahf This sūrah starts in the fifteenth juz and is concluded in the sixteenth. It is highly recommended that we recite it every Friday. Several ahadith promise that those who do so will be protected from the deceptions of Dajjāl. The Dajjāl will be a person who personifies deception. His will be an era of extreme trials and tribulations for the believers. We are asked to always pray for protection against those trials. While the Dajjāl has not yet appeared, we are indeed living in an age when dajjālic deceptions are increasingly manifest all around us. The story of the People of the Cave is narrated in āyahs 9-26. These were young people for whom their faith was all important. They lived at a time when the people of faith were being persecuted by a ruthless king. They could not fight him, nor could they surrender to him. So they took refuge in a cave. They put their affair in the Hands of Allāh and He saved them from persecution through a miraculous sleep that lasted for three centuries. The story of Prophet Mūsā and Khiḍr is narrated in āyahs 60-82. Its most important moral is that things are not always what they appear to be. We should not be deceived or disheartened by the events that unfold before us every day. What seems to be an imperfect world is actually a perfect testing ground. The story of Dhul Qarnayn is told in āyahs 83-98. He was a powerful, just, and Allāh fearing king. Two actions of his are specially highlighted. 1) His declaration that he would punish the unjust and deal kindly with the virtuous. This makes moral purpose and virtue as the yardstick with which to measure any ruler. In contrast secular western democracy holds that the government has no business deciding morality or virtue. 2) He refused to tax the people for a national project even when the tax was offered by the people. This was obviously not for the purpose of improving his chances of reelection; it was the extension of morality and virtue to the economic field. Here are reflections on some āyahs from this sūrah. InshāAllāh َلَا تَقُولَنَّ لِشَيْءٍ إِنِّي فَاعِلٌ ذَٰلِكَ غَدً إِلَّا أَن يَشَاءَ اللَّهُ ۚ وَاذْكُر رَّبَّكَ إِذَا نَسِيتَ And never say about anything, “I shall surely do this tomorrow,” without (adding), “If Allāh so wills.” And remember your Lord if you forget. (Al-Kahf, 18:23-24). Here is the background for this āyah. The account of the Seven Sleepers, the encounter between Prophet Mūsā and Khiḍr, and the story of the king Dhul Qarnayn were unknown to the Arabs. The Quraysh of Makkah were advised by Jewish scholars in Madinah to ask the Prophet ﷺ about them as a test of the authenticity of his prophethood. He promised to answer the question the next day expecting the revelation to come by that time. This sūrah was the answer. (This was a most brilliant answer that not only gave details about them, but also applied their stories to the situation at hand to show that the Quraysh were on the side of wrong in the stories about right and wrong. Unfortunately obstinacy kept the Quraysh and the Jews from accepting the Truth.) This sūrah was the answer, but it was delayed by two weeks. The two anxious weeks were a Divine reminder of an important message mentioned in this āyah. We should never announce plans about the future as if we control it. Rather we should qualify these by the words, inshāAllāh (If Allāh wills). There was a time when in the Western world, the phrase God willing, carried the same message. Today the secularized discourse shies away from acknowledging that we do not control the future. And even when it does acknowledge that, it refuses to acknowledge that the control belongs to God. So “God willing” is replaced by any number of clumsy expressions, whose common concern is to avoid mentioning God, like “If fate decrees,” “If the wind blows right,” “Hope it’s my lucky day,” “Barring some unforeseen (circumstance/ incident/accident),” “If things work out,” and “If things go according to plan.” Superstition also reigns supreme as people normally say “knock on wood” or “keep your fingers crossed.” We should not give in to this secular madness. We need to bring inshāAllāh2 (and God willing) back to our everyday discourse—on every continent and in every language of the world. For wherever we are and whatever language we speak, the future is always totally in the Hands of Allāh. Extremism وَاصْبِرْ نَفْسَكَ مَعَ الَّذِينَ يَدْعُونَ رَبَّهُم بِالْغَدَاةِ وَالْعَشِيِّ يُرِيدُونَ وَجْهَهُ ۖ وَلَا تَعْدُ عَيْنَاكَ عَنْهُمْ تُرِيدُ زِينَةَ الْحَيَاةِ الدُّنْيَا ۖ وَلَا تُطِعْ مَنْ أَغْفَلْنَا قَلْبَهُ عَن ذِكْرِنَا وَاتَّبَعَ هَوَاهُ وَكَانَ أَمْرُهُ فُرُطًا Keep yourself content with those who call their Sustainer morning and evening, seeking His countenance, and let not your eyes overlook them, seeking the splendor of the worldly life. And do not obey the one whose heart We have made heedless of Our remembrance, and who has followed his desire and whose behavior has exceeded the limits. (Al-Kahf, 18:28) Here is the most profound—and ignored—truth about extremism. Those who do not remember Allāh end up following their own desires and go to extremes in satisfying them. It all starts from a single minded devotion to the splendor of this worldly life. Extremism is thus a direct and inevitable result of materialism and unbelief. And turning to Allāh—and away from obedience to our lusts and greed—is the only way to fight it. Recently the spelling of this expression has received undue attention due to some misconceptions about the meaning of the phrase when “inshā” is written together in English (as opposed to “in shā”). The fact is that readers of English tend to pronounce and understand it in the same manner when written as “inshallāh” or “inshāAllāh» or «in shaa Allāh.» In all cases they clearly understand it to mean «If Allāh wills.» So all are valid forms as affirmed by many scholars. The Life of this World. وَاضْرِبْ لَهُم مَّثَلَ الْحَيَاةِ الدُّنْيَا كَمَاءٍ أَنزَلْنَاهُ مِنَ السَّمَاءِ فَاخْتَلَطَ بِهِ نَبَاتُ الْأَرْضِ فَأَصْبَحَ هَشِيمًا تَذْرُوهُ الرِّيَاحُ ۗ وَكَانَ اللَّهُ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ مُّقْتَدِرًا Set forth to them the similitude of the life of this world: It is like the rain which we send down from the skies: the earth’s vegetation absorbs it, but soon it becomes dry stubble, which the winds do scatter: it is (only) Allāh who prevails over all things. (Al-Kahf,18:45) All the pleasures and riches of this world are short-lived. Here today, gone tomorrow. How foolish that one should make them the yardstick to measure success in life. This comment follows the account of the encounter of two characters: a rich non-believer and a poor believer. The latter was not at all impressed by the riches of the former and was much concerned about his unbelief and ungratefulness towards Allāh. The former refused to listen to him and was destroyed. This āyah captures the moral of the story. That encounter continues today and so does the need for remembering the story and its moral. The Greatest Loss قُلْ هَلْ نُنَبِّئُكُم بِالْأَخْسَرِينَ أَعْمَالًا. الَّذِينَ ضَلَّ سَعْيُهُمْ فِي الْحَيَاةِ الدُّنْيَا وَهُمْ يَحْسَبُونَ أَنَّهُمْ يُحْسِنُونَ صُنْعًا. أُولَٰئِكَ الَّذِينَ كَفَرُوا بِآيَاتِ رَبِّهِمْ وَلِقَائِهِ فَحَبِطَتْ أَعْمَالُهُمْ فَلَا نُقِيمُ لَهُمْ يَوْمَ الْقِيَامَةِ وَزْنًا Say, “Shall We tell you about the greatest losers in respect of (their) deeds? Those are the ones whose effort in the worldly life has gone in vain, while they think they are doing well. Those are the ones who rejected the signs of their Sustainer and (the concept of ) meeting with Him, so their deeds have gone to waste, and We shall assign to them no weight at all.” (Al-Kahf, 18:103-105) Good deeds without the right motives are a waste. Motives are the soul of every action. In turn motives are driven by belief. When belief in Allāh and the Hereafter is absent then one’s good deeds are soulless. This is an all important reminder that we need to purify both our intentions and our actions. If we do not seek rewards from Allāh in the Hereafter, we’ll surely not get them. Qur'an Reflections Al-Balagh

Ramadhãn And the Qur’ãn Fasting during Ramadhãn has a connection also with the revelation of the Noble Qur’ãn. This connection has many implications. One of these is that – just as if the Qur’ãn were to be revealed in every Ramadhãn, a believer should seek to be like the angels and abandon eating and drinking, and divest himself of the vain preoccupations and gross needs of his carnal self. During Ramadhãn, he should recite or listen to the Qur’ãn as if it were being revealed for the first time or, if he is able, listen to the Qur’ãn as if he were hearing it recited by the Prophet Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) or by Sayyidniah Jibraeel to Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) revealed by Allah Himself to Muhammad (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) through Sayyidniah Jibraeel . Also, he should respect the Qur’ãn in the actions of his daily life and, by conveying its message to the others, demonstrate the Divine purpose for revealing the Qur’ãn. The Muslim world becomes in Ramadhãn like a huge masjid where millions of reciters recite the Qur’ãn, that heavenly address, to the inhabitants of the earth. Demonstrating the reality of the verse, The month of Ramadhãn, in which the Qur’ãn was revealed, Ramadhãn proves itself to be the month of the Qur’ãn: while some members of the vast congregation in that great mosque of the Muslim world listen to its recitation with solemn reverence, others recite it themselves. The rewards for the good deeds done in Ramadan are multiplied by a thousand. According to one hadith, ten rewards are given for each letter of the Wise Qur’ãn. The recitation of a single letter means ten good deeds, and brings forth ten fruits of Paradise. However, in the whole month of Ramadhãn, the reward for each letter of the Qur’ãn is multiplied not by ten, but by a thousand. Furthermore, the reward for each letter of the holy Qur’ãn recited in the Night of Power is multiplied by thirty thousand. Thus, the Qur’ãn, each of whose letters yields thirty thousand permanent fruits of Paradise, becomes in Ramadhãn like a huge blessed tree which produces for believers millions of permanent fruits of Paradise. Consider, then, how holy and profitable a trade this is, and know in how great a loss those are who do not appreciate the letters of the Qur’ãn! The one who fasts, should prevent his tongue from lying, backbiting, bad language and indecent talk, and make it busy with the recitation of the Qur’ãn, glorification of Allah, seeking His forgiveness. In the same way, he should prevent his eyes from looking at, and his ears from listening to, the forbidden things. He should, instead, use his eyes to see such things as those which, for example, will give a spiritual lesson or moral warning; and use his ears to listen to the Qur’ãn. ATTARBIYAH Islamic Tarbiyah Academy