ummtaalib

Sunnats and Aadaab of Safr (Travelling) – Part 5 1. It is preferable for one to begin his journey on a Thursday. Hence if it is possible for one to travel on a Thursday, then one should begin his journey on a Thursday. عن كعب بن مالك رضي الله عنه قال : لقلما كان رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم يخرج إذا خرج في سفر إلا يوم الخميس (بخاري رقم 2949) Hadhrat Ka’b bin Maalik (Radhiallahu Anhu) said: “It was the Mubaarak habit of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) that generally whenever he intended embarking on a journey, he would depart on a Thursday. عن كعب بن مالك رضي الله عنه أن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم خرج يوم الخميس في غزوة تبوك وكان يحب أن يخرج يوم الخميس (بخاري رقم 2950) Hadhrat Ka’b bin Maalik (Radhiallahu Anhu) said: “Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) departed on Thursday for the battle of Tabuk, and he used to like departing on a Thursday. 2. Ensure that you have sufficient provisions for the journey e.g. petrol, spending money etc. عن ابن عباس رضي الله عنهما قال: كان أهل اليمن يَحُجون ولا يتزودون، ويقولون: نحن المتوكلون. فأنزل الله تعالى: وَتَزَوَّدُوا فَإِنَّ خَيْرَ الزَّادِ التَّقْوَى (تفسير ابن كثير) Hadhrat ibn Abbaas (Radhiallahu Anhuma) reports: “The people of Yemen used to perform Hajj without taking along provisions for the journey. They used to say that we are the “Mutawakkiloon” (Those relying solely on Allah Ta’ala and therefore not in need of taking provisions). Thereafter Allah Ta’ala revealed the verses: وَتَزَوَّدُوا فَإِنَّ خَيْرَ الزَّادِ التَّقْوَى And take your provisions (for the journey), and certainly the best provision is taqwa (self restraint). عن ابن عمر رضي الله عنهما قال: إن من كَرَم الرجل طيب زاده في السفر (تفسير ابن كثير) It is reported that Hadhrat ibn Umar (Radhiallahu Anhuma) said: “It is part of the honour and nobility of a man that he takes along sufficient provisions during his journey.

The Harm of Neglecting to Recite Durood عن حسين بن علي رضي الله عنهما قال قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم من ذكرت عنده فخطىء الصلاة علي خطىء طريق الجنة رواه الطبراني (الترغيب و الترهيب 2/507) (قال الهيثمي في مجمع الزوائد: رواه الطبراني و فيه بشير بن محمد الكندي وهو ضعيف Husain bin Ali (Radhiallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “The one in whose presence my name is mentioned and he left out reciting durood upon me, he has left out the path leading one to Paradise يَا رَبِّ صَلِّ وَ سَلِّم دَائِمًا أَبَدًا عَلَى حَبِيبِكَ خَيرِ الخَلْقِ كُلِّهِمِ Ihyaaud Deen

Question and Answer: Q. Related to yesterday’s Q&A, I wanted to bring to your attention that there is a person who does tours to historic places and he says that he is a Mahram for those women who do not have Mahrams. Can such a person be a Mahram? (Query published as received) The basic definition of Mahram for a female is a male relative with whom marriage is permanently and perpetually Haraam (prohibited). For example, immediate relatives by blood such as one’s father, brothers, paternal and maternal uncles, nephews etc. There are other requirements for a person to qualify as a Mahram such as adulthood, trustworthiness, sanity and no potential of Fitnah etc. A person with whom marriage is permissible in Shari’ah cannot be a Mahram. A tour guide who is not related to a woman in such a manner whereby Nikah with her is permanently prohibited in the Shari’ah does not qualify as a Mahram. Claiming that he is a Mahram when he is in fact not a qualified Mahram in Shari’ah is deception and tampering with the laws of Shari’ah. Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians 223 Alpine Road, Overport, Durban

Question Is the following hadith authentic? Backbiting is worse than adultery? Answer These words have been reported as a hadith via several very weak chains. It is therefore not suitable to quote this statement as a hadith of Nabi (sallalahu ‘alayhi wa sallam). However Imam Bayhaqi (rahimahullah) has recorded these words in Shu’abul Iman as the statement of Sufyan ibn ‘Uyaynah (rahimahullah). Hafiz Mundhiri (rahimahullah) says that this is more correct. (Targhib, vol. 3 pg. 511) The complete narration is as follows: Sufyan ibn ‘Uyaynah (rahimahullah) says: “In the sight of Allah, backbiting is worse than adultery and consuming alcohol because adultery and consuming alcohol is between you and Allah, if you repent, Allah will forgive you. However backbiting is never forgiven until the person you spoke against forgives you”. (Shu’abul Iman, hadith: 6314) This narration is suitable to be quoted as the statement of Sufyan ibn ‘Uyaynah (rahimahullah) and not as a hadith of Nabi (sallalahu ‘alayhi wa sallam). And Allah Ta’ala Knows best Verified by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomer Source

My Journey to Freedom By Sumayyah Joan It will be three years since I stood before two Muslim sisters and declared openly my belief in God (Allah) and His Messenger, Peace be upon him, and thus freeing and liberating myself from my former self-imposed bondage. Stepping out of the darkness of disbelief into the light of Islam, it’s funny that I found such freedom in the very thing that was keeping me from Islam in the first place - the hijab. Even though I get the wide gamut of strange stares, points and comments, this covering makes me feel honored, safe and cherished. The word hijab comes from the Arabic word “hajaba” meaning to hide from view or to conceal. Women who don’t reveal their beauty in this society and give in to this oppressive system, are looked upon as invisible, without sexuality and backward. Because I’m often mistaken for a nun, or terrorist, I feel the reactions to the hijab for many women, is the truest test of being a Muslim. But in reality, the hijab is easy! In instructing us to wear the hijab, Allah has given Muslim women what they can bear of injunctions and obligations. For Allah says: “And we do not lay on any soul a burden except to the extent of its ability, and with Us (God) is a Book which speaks the truth…”Qur’an 23:62 Unfortunately, Satan and his cohorts are calling the Muslim woman to enslave her to the creation, and to forget about her servitude to her Creator. Chastity, modesty and piety are deceptively marked as shackles on personal freedom. Allah Ta'ala warns the believers that they should not let Satan deceive them, as he deceived their parents, Adam and Eve. Under the guises of fashion, culture, and modernism, Satan has succeeded and is succeeding to lead the Muslim woman –and all women- into immodesty. Since the heyday of the feminist movement, there has been an increasing amount of scrutiny placed on the dress and status of Muslim women. According to these “liberated” women, the hijab not only covers the head, but also covers the mind, will and intellect. They say that our dress code is outdated and oppressive, and it stops us from being productive human beings. They speak out of ignorance when they say that our hijab does not belong in these modern times, when due to the constant decrease in moral values in the world today, circumstances make the hijab even more necessary. From the dawn of civilization, flowing dresses and headscarves have always been associated with “Godliness” or “God consciousness”. Even the Christian pictorial representation of the earlier prophets and their womenfolk bear familiar likeness to the dress ordained for Muslim men and women (e.g. Mary). This tradition of modesty is reflected in the Qur’an (7:26), wherein Allah says: “O Children of Adam! We (God) have bestowed clothing upon you to cover yourselves and as an adornment (for beauty); and the clothing of righteousness – that is best.”Qur’an 7:26 Allah enjoined hijab on the Muslim woman to protect her from harm. He knows His creation, and knows that when women make a dazzling display of themselves, with immodest clothes, perfumed bodies and made-up faces, it serves to increase the sexual deviance of the overall society. Many of those who are misguided however, would have us think that the hijab is a portable prison that restricts our minds, lives and hearts. It is none of these things, and in order not to fall victim to their plots, we must begin to understand what the hijab truly is- a source of liberation, dignity and protection. What the Hijab is... An act of Obedience to The Creator. An Act of Honour & Dignity. An act of Belief & Faith. An act of Modesty. An act of Purity. An act of Bashfulness. An act of Righteousness. A Shield. What the Hijab is NOT... It is NOT something new. Muslim women follow the example of righteous women in the past such as Mary, the mother of Jesus. It is NOT a symbol of oppression. It is NOT required in non-public places where there are only muslim females and close male relatives. It is NOT a means to restrict a woman’s freedom to express her views and opinion, or to have an education and a career. It is NOT an act of defiance, confrontation or protest to non-Muslims. It is NOT a portable prison. “Indeed, the men who submit and the women who submit, the believing men and the believing women, the obedient men and the obedient women, the truthful men and the truthful women, the patient men and the patient women, the humble men and the humble women, the charitable men and the charitable women, the fasting men and the fasting women, the men who guard their private parts and the women who do so, and the men who remember Allah often and the women who remember - Allah has prepared for them forgiveness and a mighty reward.” [Qur’an 33:35] Islaaminfo

The Importance of Good Intentions عن أبي هريرة قال قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم إنما يبعث الناس على نياتهم رواه ابن ماجه بإسناد حسن ورواه أيضا من حديث جابر إلا أنه قال يحشر الناس (الترغيب و الترهيب 1/65 Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah (Radhiallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “People will be resurrected on the Day of Qiyaamah according to their intentions (i.e. the types of intentions and feelings of good or evil they used to entertain, they will be dealt with accordingly).

You could give her a river, & she would give you back an ocean March 27th, 2014: We prayed over my dear mother today and buried her. Tonight will be the first night in her grave. Subhan'Allah, I always wondered about this day, which will come for us all. My sister and I were talking this morning about how serene and peaceful we feel despite the chaos and cries of people around us. Perhaps it's because we saw her struggle through her illness and took care of her throughout that time, or perhaps it's because she looked so tranquil after her death, or perhaps we are at peace because she is finally at peace. But ultimately, we know it's because Allah is truly Merciful. He literally removed the sharp grief and sorrow associated with the death of a beloved mum, and kindly replaced it with calm, composure and serenity in all of us. I remember my friend talking of this when her own mother passed away, and I didn't understand it back then because I couldn't imagine losing my mother. But today I understand it very well. Allah saves a person when their world crumbles. He gives you strength at difficult times - the kind of strength that you just know is not from you but can only be from Him. And He allows your soul to soar when it is pushed over the cliff by the calamities of life. Alhamdulillah, the funeral turnout was incredibly huge. The masjid had to open up another whole building to accommodate for the large number of attendees, and there wasn't a single person who didn't have something good to say about her. When news of her death went around, you could see how it affected the community both here and abroad. She used to do a lot of good deeds in secret, and it's only now that it's all coming out because people are coming forward to speak of it. Two women couldn't stop sobbing because she was the one who brought them into the community after they felt outcasted. A grown man was crying in town saying that she helped him set up his own business and get on his two feet. Numerous couples say they are indebted to her for her great ability to reconcile between quarreling couples and rebuild broken families. Countless people back home who are in poverty weep today because she always gave to them, and made sure they had something to eat and live on. I personally remember the day I found out she had been sponsoring at least two hafidh students of knowledge (for a few years) who were too poor to continue with their Shari'ah degrees - she had tried to keep it a secret but I pushed her until she told me and wow, was I surprised seeing as though she is always giving sadaqah masha'Allah. She didn't just help people. She rebuilt lives and slowly changed communities. She did so much for others, but what she did for us is beyond my ability to tell. She was the one who facilitated all my learning. After Allah, if it wasn't for her I would never have learnt any Arabic or Qur'an or anything, let alone teach any of it. One day I decided to surprise her by calling her after I completed my hifdh of Qur'an. Wallahi, just as I stepped into class for my khatmah, I received a call on my phone. It was my mother calling to surprise *me* with a gift to go on 'Umrah for my efforts with Qur'an. She had no idea that I was finishing my khatmah and that I was planning on calling her in just an hour. But that was my mum; always a step ahead in charity, gifts, and goodwill. You could give her a river and she would give you back the ocean. I can never do justice to you dear mummy, because you will always be a million times better than anything I could ever say about you. You were my best friend and confidante, my key adviser and helper. You were our mother and so much more. You were loved by the people of this earth and I'm sure this is a sign of Allah's Love for you. May the Lord of the Worlds accept you into His Mercy this night, shower His forgiveness upon you, and prepare your grave tonight as the best of earthly abodes; spacious and filled with light. I ask Him to open the window of Paradise to you, and fill you with peace and happiness. May the Angels greet you as they greet the Prophets, truthful ones, martyrs, and righteous, and may you be accepted as one of them. "Gardens of everlasting residence; they will enter with whoever were righteous among their fathers, their spouses and their descendants. And the angels will enter upon them from every gate saying, "Salamun 'Alaikum (peace be upon you) for what you patiently endured. And excellent is the final home." [al-Ra'd: 23-24] May Allah be pleased with you, ameen. For those who asked, my mother died at the young age of 56. Source : IdealMuslimah.com

Question and Answer: Q. Russian girl recently converted to Islam. She hasn’t learned surah al –Fatihah yet and doesn’t know how to pronounce the Arabic letters correctly. How should such person perform Salah? She knows the basic movements, provisions of Salah (Ruqu, Sajdah ) , but she isn’t able recite the Surah and Dua needed for prayer. How should such people pray? (Query published as received) A. A new Muslim who does not know the Surahs and Duas should make an effort to learn the basic Surahs and Duas required in Salaah. Nevertheless, not knowing these Surahs and Duas should not prevent her from praying Salaah. Islam is easy and makes provisions for all types of people. So whilst she does not know these Surahs and Duas, she should merely perform the actions of Salaah and recite the Takbir (Allahu Akbar) when commencing the Salaah and when moving from posture to posture. In the positions where she is required to read Surahs, she should recite SubhanAllah, AlhamduliLlah, Allahu Akbar or La’ilaha illaLlah (Whichever is easier for her). Her Salaah will be valid in this manner. The Prophet of Allah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) advised his Sahabi (companion) in a similar situation: “If you know anything from the Qur’an, recite it. If not (if you have not memorized anything from the Qur’an), say Alhamdulillah, Allahu Akbar and La ilaha illaLlah” (Tirmizi, Hadith #: 302, Narrated by Rifa’ah bin Rafi’) As she learns the basic Surahs and Duas, she should implement it in her Salaah. And Allah Knows Best Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Jazaakillah for this excellent article. It really needs to be understood inshaAllah!

Backbiting Q: If a person has committed backbiting against someone, and wants to make taubah from backbiting, and the person he was backbiting about does not know about it, does one have to go and tell the person I said this and that about you, make maaf, or can one beg forgiveness from Allah and do some good action and send the sawaab to the person? A: No. He should in a general way ask for forgiveness without specifying the wrong that he had done. And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best. يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اجْتَنِبُوا كَثِيرًا مِّنَ الظَّنِّ إِنَّ بَعْضَ الظَّنِّ إِثْمٌ وَلَا تَجَسَّسُوا وَلَا يَغْتَب بَّعْضُكُم بَعْضًا أَيُحِبُّ أَحَدُكُمْ أَن يَأْكُلَ لَحْمَ أَخِيهِ مَيْتًا فَكَرِهْتُمُوهُ وَاتَّقُوا اللَّـهَ إِنَّ اللَّـهَ تَوَّابٌ رَّحِيمٌ ﴿الحجرات: ١٢﴾ وعن أبي سعيد وجابر قالا : قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم : " الغيبة أشد من الزنا " . قالوا : يا رسول الله وكيف الغيبة أشد من الزنا ؟ قال : " إن الرجل ليزني فيتوب فيتوب الله عليه " - وفي رواية : " فيتوب فيغفر الله له وإن صاحب الغيبة لا يغفر له حتى يغفرها له صاحبه " (مشكاة # 4874) وفيها الغيبة أن تصف أخاك حال كونه غائبا بوصف يكرهه إذا سمعه عن أبي هريرة رضي الله عنه قال قال عليه الصلاة والسلام أتدرون ما الغيبة قالوا الله ورسوله أعلم قال ذكرك أخاك بما يكره قيل أفرأيت إن كان في أخي ما أقول قال إن كان فيه ما تقول اغتبته وإن لم يكن فيه فقد بهته وإذا لم تبلغه يكفيه الندم وإلا شرط بيان كل ما اغتابه به (الدر المختار 6/ 410) قال الشامي : قوله ( وإلا شرط بيان كل ما اغتابه به ) أي مع الاستغفار والتوبة والمراد أن يبين له ذلك ويعتذر إليه ليسمح عنه بأن يبالغ في الثناء عليه والتودد إليه ويلازم ذلك حتى يطيب قلبه وإن لم يطب قلبه كان اعتذاره وتودده حسنة يقابل بها سيئة الغيبة في الآخرة وعليه أن يخلص في الاعتذار وإلا فهو ذنب آخر ويحتمل أن يبقى لخصمه عليه مطالبة في الآخرة لأنه لو علم أنه غير مخلص لما رضي به قاله الإمام الغزالي وغيره وقال أيضا فإن غاب أو مات فقد فات أمره ولا يدرك إلا بكثرة الحسنات لتؤخذ عوضا في القيامة ويجب أن يفصل له إلا أن يكون التفضيل مضرا له كذكره عيوبا يخفيها فإنه يستحل منها مبهما اه وقال منلا علي القاري في شرح المشكاة وهل يكفيه أن يقول اغتبتك فاجعلني في حل أم لا بد أن يبين ما اغتاب قال بعض علمائنا في الغيبة إلا بعلمه بها بل يستغفر الله له إن علم أن إعلامه يثير فتنة ويدل عليه أن الإبراء عن الحقوق المجهولة جائز عندنا والمستحب لصاحب الغيبة أن يبرئه عنها وفي القنية تصافح الخصمين لأجل العذر استحلال قال في النووي ورأيت في فتاوى الطحاوي أنه يكفي الندم والاستغفار في الغيبة وإن بلغت المغتاب ولا اعتبار بتحليل الورثة (رد المحتار 6/ 410-411) Answered by: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

How will one Determine Adab in Deen? Hazrat Thaanwi (Rahmatullahi Alaihi) was once asked regarding placing Deeni kitaabs in a bathroom and toilet that was built but not yet used. Hazrat (Rahmatullahi Alaihi) replied that, apparently this does not seem to be correct. Although the bathroom and toilet have thus far not been used at all, however since they have been built for the purpose of one relieving oneself and bathing, it is against the dictates of adab (etiquette) to place Deeni kitaabs therein. Upon hearing this answer, an educated person who was present at that time enquired, “Doesn’t the impermissibility apply to when the bathroom and toilet are already in use?” Hazrat (Rahmatullahi Alaihi) said that the Fuqaha have used the words المعد لذلك (i.e. the Quran, Hadith or Deeni kitaabs should not be taken to any place that has been designed and prepared for such a purpose). By pondering over the statement of the Fuqaha, one understands that the ruling will relate to a place that has been built for this purpose, irrespective of whether people have commenced using it or not. Moulana further explained that just as it is impermissible for one to place a pair of new shoes on a Deeni kitaab, though one had not yet began using it, similarly will be the ruling in this case. Hazrat (Rahmatullahi Alaihi) then mentioned that etiquette revolves around the general practice of society. One should see whether something is regarded as etiquette in society or not. (Malfoozaat Hakeemul Ummat 10/ 36) Ihyaaud Deen

The following hadith is commonly quoted when emphasising the importance of the sunnah: “Whoever holds of to my sunnah at the time of corruption of my Ummah, will get the reward of a hundred martyrs” References: This hadith is reported by the following Sahabah (radiyallahu ‘anhum) 1) Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (radiyallahu ‘anhu): His narration appears in Mishkatul Masabih. Hafidh Ibn Hajar (rahimahullah) states in his takhreej of this book: “recorded by Baihaqi in his kitabuz zuhd on the authority of Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (radiyallahu’anhu) (Hidayatur Ruwat, hadith:174 ) Imam Naji (rahimahullah) has mentioned that Baihaqi has also recorded it in his Al-Madkhal on the authority of Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (radiyallahu ‘anhu) with the reward as ”a hundred martyrs” (‘Ujalatul Imla, pg.40 ( Note: Imam Tabarani (rahimahullah) cites the narration of Abu Hurairah in Al-Mu’jamul awsat (5414) wherein there is mention of the reward of only “one martyr” Imam Naji (rahimahullah) states that the version of Tabarani was probably altered. He says: لعل لفظ المائة سقطت من الرواية المذكورة “Perhaps the word “hundred” was (accidently) omitted from this (Tabarani’s) narration.” (‘Ujalatul Imla, pg.40) One could also argue that both versions of Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (radiyallahu ‘anhu) be viewed separately. It is possible that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) initially said “one martyr”. Thereafter Almighty Allah increased the reward to that of “one hundred martyrs”. This explanation is common in such cases. Furthermore, the narrations of the following Sahabah also support the reward of one hundred martyrs. 2) Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas (radiyallahu ‘anhuma): ‘Allamah Mundhiri (rahimahullah) quotes the very same wording (the reward of a hundred martyrs) in his Al-Targheeb on the authority of Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas (radiyallahu ‘anhuma) He then references it to Baihaqi also. (Al-Targheeb, vol.1 pg.80 And Kitabuz Zuhd of Baihaqi, hadith:112. Also see Al-Kamil of Ibn ‘Adiy, vol.3 pg.173-174) 3) Sayyiduna ‘Ali (radiyallahu’anhu) Recently, a friend drew my attention to this narration in Ibn Batta’s Al-Ibanatul Kubra (vol.1, pg.309) This version also has the reward as one hundred martyrs. The status of the hadith This hadith can be graded as sound (hasan) according to Hafidh ibn Hajar (rahimahullah) and acceptable according to ‘Allamah Mundhiri (rahimahullah). The reason for this is that Hafidh ibn Hajar has abstained from criticising the narration in his book “Hidayatur Ruwat”. Hafidh ibn Hajar himself has stated that his silence in this particular chapter (fasl thani) denotes acceptance. (Introduction fo Hidayatur Ruwat, vol.1 pg. 58) قال ابن حجر: فالتزمت في التخريج أن أبين حال كل حديث من الفصل الثاني، من كونه صحيحا أو ضعيفا أو منكرا أو موضوعًا، وما سكت عن بيانه فهو حسن. Furthermore, Al-Mundhiri (rahimahullah) has quoted the narration in a manner that indicates acceptability to him. i.e. He used the wordعن (‘an) when doing so. He has stated in his introduction to Al-Targhib that any narration for which he uses the word عن (‘an) will be sahih (authentic), hasan (sound) or close to them two. (Targhib, vol.1 pg. 37) Lastly, Shaykh Muhammad Tahir Al-Fatani (rahimahullah) quotes a similar hadith with the same virtue of a hundred martyrs for reviving a sunnah, and grades it as hasan (sound) (Tadhkiratul Mawdu’at, pg.44) يُلاحَظ أن هؤلاء الأئمة لم يروا في هذا الحديث نكارة، وإلا لبينوها. خلافًا لمن رأى ذلك… An Objection Some people have challenged the authenticity of the narration of Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas (radiyallahu ‘anhuma) because of a narrator in the chain named: Hasan ibn Qutaibah. Their claim is backed by the fact that ‘Allamah Dhahabi (rahimahullah) has declared him extremely weak (هالك) (Al-Mizaan, vol.1 Pg.473 ) According to them, this ought to render the narration as extremely weak. Answer Hasan ibn Qutaibah being extremely weak is not a unanimous verdict. Hafidh Al-Mundhiri (who is an earlier muhaddith to Dhahabi) actually viewed Hasan ibn Qutaibah as one regarding whom there are mixed opinions. He therefore included him in the “chapter of the narrators that are differed upon” at the end of his book. (Targheeb, vol.4 pg.569) Verdicts of the Muhaddithun on Hasan Ibn Qutaibah Imam Daraqutni says: متروك الحديث Al-Azdi said: واهي الحديث Dhahabi said: هالك Note: The above three verdicts denote extreme weakness. Imam Abu Hatim Al-Razi says: ليس بقوي الحديث، ضعيف الحديث Al-‘Uqaily said: كثير الوهم Al-Mundhiri, Ibn Hajar and Al-Buseeri have all used the term: ضعيف Note: The verdicts of these five Muhaddithun denote general weakness, i.e, not severe. Imam Ibn Hibban has declared him as reliable (thiqah) but added: يُخطيئ ويُخالِفُ Imam Ibn ‘Ady says: للحسن بن قتيبة هذا أحاديث غرائب حسان، وأرجو أنه لا بأس به Note: The words used by the above two Muhaddithun denote a degree of credibility. References for the above: Mizanul i’tidal, vol.1 pg.473, Du’afa lil ‘Uqaili, vol.2 pg.17, Al-Jarh Wat-Ta’deel libn Abi Hatim, vol.3, pg.33, Targheeb, vol.4 pg.569, Al-Matalibul ‘Aliyah, vol.4 pg.295, Ihtaful buseeri, vol.9, pg.244, Tiqat-Ibn Hibban, no.772 & Al-Kamil li Ibn ‘Ady, vol.3 pg.174) These quotations clearly illustrate the amount of difference on Hasan ibn Qutaibah’s credibility. To only quote those Muhaddithun who discredit him severely while omitting those who stated otherwise is academic treachery. Narrations that have people like this (differed upon) are generally classified as hasan (sound) by Mundhiri (rahimahullah) and others. (see introduction to Targhib, vol.1 pg.37 & Qawa’id fi ‘Ulumil hadith, pgs.72-77) Summary The varied opinions of the earlier scholars on Hasan Ibn Qutaibah only affect the narration of Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas (radiyallahu ‘anhuma). The hadith in question is further substantiated by the narration of Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (radiyallahu’anhu) in which there is apparently no mention of Hasan ibn Qutaibah. Therefore even though some may challenge the authenticity of the chain of Sayyiduna ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Abbas (radiyallahu ‘anhuma), it acquires sufficient strength when combined with the chain of Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah (radiyallahu ‘anhu). This is probably the reason for three Muhaddithun clearly sanctioning the hadith; they are Imams: Al-Mundhiri, Ibn Hajar and Al-Muhaddith Shaykh Al-Fatani (may Allah be pleased with them all). This is sufficient to prove the acceptability of the hadith. Final caution 1. The word used in this narration is: “man Tamassaka” which translates as: One who holds steadfast to my sunnah, and not: One who revives it (as is commonly quoted). 2. A look at the other ahadith in the chapter under which ‘Allamah Mundhiri and ‘Allamah Baghawi have cited this hadith clearly points to the meaning being: Adherence to the sunnah in general. For example, Hafidh Mundhiri (rahimahullah) quotes the following hadith before this one: “Whoever eats halal, practices upon the sunnah and doesn’t harm the people will enter Jannah” (Hakim) ‘Allamah Baghawi (rahimahullah) cites the following hadith before the one in question: “…Whoever loves my sunnah loves me, and who loves me will be with me in Jannah” (Tirmidhi) Undoubtedly, these ahadith do not mean that the love or practice of just one sunnah yields the reward of Jannah! Although it cannot be denied, that Allah Ta’ala could grant an individual Jannah even for his love for only one sunnah. Therefore, when asked about this issue, Shaykh Yunus Jawnpuri (may Allah protect him) answered: “It’s quite clear that the Hadith is referring to the practice on the entire sunnah, although it wouldn’t be farfetched to understand it to be referring to even just one sunnah” (Al-Yawaqitul Ghaliyah, vol.1 pg.46) After writing the above, I asked my Respected Teacher, Al-Muhaddith Shaykh Muhammad ‘Awwamah (may Allah protect him) on 13 January 2014, about the meaning of the hadith, to which he replied: “It’s difficult to say that it refers to adhering to just one sunnah. The more appropriate meaning is the broader one (i.e, that this is the virtue of holding on to the sunnah in general) although one may use it for a specific sunnah when wisdom demands so.” Be that as it may, let us all make a firm intention to always stick to the way of our Beloved Nabi (sallallahu’alayhi wasallam). And Allah Ta’ala knows best. al-miftah

Our hearts are the same hearts which were given to Junaid Baghdadi and Abdul Qadir Jilani because Allah is just. They made effort at purification and became Shaykh Junaid Baghdadi and Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jilani. We have in our minds that we do not have the capabilities and therefore we do even make the effort.

Backbiting and Slander '...Allah will defend him in this world and in the next....' And why did you not, when you heard it, say? "It is not right of us to speak of this: Glory to God, this is a most serious slander" (Quran 24:16) A commentary on one of the most destructive of major sins Islam is a religion of peace, love and compassion. Lies, suspicion, back biting, slander and gossip are totally alien to Islam. In fact they are considered amongst the most destructive of major sins. This is so because these sins sow enmity and discord among the Muslim Ummah and lead to its destruction. They cause hostilities between people of the same household, and between neighbors, friends and relatives. Islam demands that our relationship with mankind should be one of sincerity and responsibility. It should be one where we have respect for the honor, reputation and privacy of others. Islam teaches us that we are not only held accountable for our own attitudes and actions but also for anything else over which we have control or influence over, in our society or the world around us. Verses: Let's see what the Quran states about backbiting and slander - 'This is the Book, in it is guidance sure, without doubt, to those who fear Allah'. (2:2) Allah has forbidden the believers from backbiting O you who believe! Avoid much suspicion, in deeds some suspicions are sins. And spy not neither backbite one another. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? You would hate it (so hate backbiting). And fear Allah, verily, Allah is the one who accepts repentance, Most Merciful. (49: 12) When we reflect deeply over this assimilation it should be enough to keep us away from backbiting! Do not treat the issue of Backbiting & Slander with indifference because it is a great sin Behold, you received it on your tongues, and said out of your mouths things which you had no knowledge; and you thought it to be a light matter, while it was most serious in the sight of Allah (24: 15) Many of us back bite and gossip without thinking. We think it is minor matter, however Allah reminds us to be careful and even though we think we are doing something little it is in fact very big in the sight of Allah! Allah teaches us to speak out against Slander and try to put a stop to it And why did you not, when you heard it, say? "It is not right of us to speak of this: Glory to Allah, this is a most serious slander" (24:16) Many people are so busy spreading the slander they hear that they do not even stop to think if it is true or not. Shaitan (Satan) wants us to use our tongue to create conflict and hatred Say to My servants that they should only say those things that are best, for Satan does sow dissensions among them, for Satan is to man an avowed enemy. (17:53) Are we falling into Shaitan's (Satan's) trap? We can all analyze ourselves. Hadiths: Let's see what Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) said about Backbiting in the hadiths. Allah states in the Quran - You have indeed in the Messenger of Allah an excellent pattern of conduct. (33:21) The definition of Backbiting & Slander Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) said :"Do you know what backbiting is?" They said, "Allah and His Messenger know best." He then said, "It is to say something about your brother that he would dislike." Someone asked him, "But what if what I say is true?" The Messenger of Allah (Peace Be Upon Him) said, "If what you say about him is true, you are backbiting him, but if it is not true then you have slandered him." (Muslim) We should guard our tongue from sins and use our limbs in acts of obedience Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) said : "Who protects his tongue from unlawful utterances and his private parts from illegal sexual intercourse, I shall guarantee him entrance into Paradise." (Bukhari and Muslim) The definition of the best muslim "I asked the Messenger of Allah (Peace Be Upon Him): Who is the best Muslim? The Messenger of Allah(Peace Be Upon Him) replied, "He is the one from whom Muslims are safe from the evil of his tongue and hands." (Muslim) Deriding people in their presence by making negative facial expressions or by hand gestures while they are unaware is also a form of backbiting. We need to beware of the slipping of our tongues "When man wakes up in the morning each day, all parts of the body warn the tongue saying, ‘Fear Allah as regards us for we are at your mercy; if you are upright, we will be upright and if you are crooked, we become crooked.’" (At-Tirmidhee) Summary Backbiting and slander is so widespread that it has become the topic of people’s meetings and an avenue for expressing their anger, misgivings and jealousy. Those who indulge in backbiting are oblivious of the fact that they are only harming themselves. This is because of the fact that on the Day of Resurrection both the wrongdoer and the wronged will stand before Allah, Who is the Just Judge, Allah will then give this wronged person from the good deeds of the person who wronged him in accordance with his wrong by backbiting. Some situations allow us to inform others of what someone has done. It is allowed for us to inform the authorities when someone does injustice to us or others. It is allowed for us to inform someone who can help a perpetrator from committing further vice. It is also permissible for us to tell whoever seeks our advice on a person for business dealings or marriage. In this case it is not allowed for us to hide what we know about the person so that the enquirer will not be deceived. All these types of speaking about others are lawful. Islam teaches us that if people are being ridiculed or backbited in our presence, we should defend their honor. If we neglect this, we shall deprive ourselves of ever needed help and mercy from Allah - If a man's Muslim brother is slandered in his presence, and he is capable of defending him and does so, Allah will defend him in this world and in the next. But if he fails to defend him, Allah will destroy him in this world and the next. (Baghawi). What will we do the next time we are tempted to backbite or hear slander in our presence? Right now the choice is ours! We ask Allah the Most High, the All Powerful, to teach us that which will benefit us, and to benefit us by that which we learn. May Allah grant blessings and peace to our Prophet Muhammad (Peace Be Upon Him) and his family and companions.

Be more Concerned about the Opinion of Allah Ta’ala than the Opinions of People Once, a person addressed Hazrat Abu Zarr Ghifaari (Radiyallahu Anhu) in a rude manner and began hurling abuse at him. Hazrat Abu Zarr Ghifaari (Radiyallahu Anhu) replied by saying: “The only barrier between Jannat and I is a valley. If I am able to cross over that valley, then I take an oath by Allah that I am not concerned and troubled by what you have to say. However, if I am unable to cross over and I am left on the other side (i.e. the side of Jahannum) then really I am much worse than all what you have to say.” (Jawaahir Paare)

Q: I divorced my wife two years a go. I still have not paid her dowry. I can not afford it. Is it possible if I pay her whatever I can? A: The full amount is a debt upon you. Hence you should pay her the full amount unless she is prepared to forgive you and wave off the debt. And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best. وَإِن طَلَّقْتُمُوهُنَّ مِن قَبْلِ أَن تَمَسُّوهُنَّ وَقَدْ فَرَضْتُمْ لَهُنَّ فَرِيضَةً فَنِصْفُ مَا فَرَضْتُمْ إِلَّا أَن يَعْفُونَ أَوْ يَعْفُوَ الَّذِي بِيَدِهِ عُقْدَةُ النِّكَاحِ وَأَن تَعْفُوا أَقْرَبُ لِلتَّقْوَىٰ وَلَا تَنسَوُا الْفَضْلَ بَيْنَكُمْ إِنَّ اللَّـهَ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونَ بَصِيرٌ ﴿البقرة: ٢٣٧﴾ Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

Duaa to Earn one Forgiveness of Sins and Safety from Jahannum One should Recite the Following Duaa in the Morning and Evening اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّى أَصْبَحْتُ أُشْهِدُكَ وَأُشْهِدُ حَمَلَةَ عَرْشِكَ وَمَلاَئِكَتَكَ وَجَمِيعَ خَلْقِكَ أَنَّكَ أَنْتَ اللَّهُ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ أَنْتَ وَحْدَكَ لاَ شَرِيكَ لَكَ وَأَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُكَ وَرَسُولُكَ O Allah, I spend the morning while I call upon You, and I call upon the angels who are the bearers of Your throne, and I call upon Your (other) angels and I call upon Your entire creation to bear witness that You are Allah, none is worthy of worship except You. You are alone, You have no partner, and Hadhrat Muhammad (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) is Your messenger. عن أنس بن مالك رضي الله عنه قال قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم من قال حين يصبح اللهم إنى أصبحت أشهدك وأشهد حملة عرشك وملائكتك وجميع خلقك أنك أنت الله لا إله إلا أنت وحدك لا شريك لك وأن محمدا عبدك ورسولك إلا غفر له ما أصاب فى يومه ذلك من ذنب وإن قالها حين يمسى غفر له ما أصاب تلك الليلة (ابو داود رقم 5080) Hadhrat Anas (Radhiallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “The one who recites the following Duaa in the morning, then whatever sins he commits during that day will be forgiven. And whoever recites it in the evening, then whatever sins he commits during the night will be forgiven. اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّى أَصْبَحْتُ أُشْهِدُكَ وَأُشْهِدُ حَمَلَةَ عَرْشِكَ وَمَلاَئِكَتَكَ وَجَمِيعَ خَلْقِكَ أَنَّكَ أَنْتَ اللَّهُ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ أَنْتَ وَحْدَكَ لاَ شَرِيكَ لَكَ وَأَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُكَ وَرَسُولُكَ عن أنس بن مالك رضي الله عنه أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قال من قال حين يصبح أو يمسى اللهم إنى أصبحت أشهدك وأشهد حملة عرشك وملائكتك وجميع خلقك أنك أنت الله لا إله إلا أنت وأن محمدا عبدك ورسولك أعتق الله ربعه من النار فمن قالها مرتين أعتق الله نصفه ومن قالها ثلاثا أعتق الله ثلاثة أرباعه فإن قالها أربعا أعتقه الله من النار (ابو داود رقم 5071) Hadhrat Anas (Radhiallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “The one who recites the following Duaa once in the morning or in the evening, then Allah Ta’ala will save one quarter of his body from the fire of Jahannum. Whoever recites it twice, Allah Ta’ala will save half of his body from the fire of Jahannum. Whoever recites it thrice, Allah Ta’ala will save two thirds of his body from the fire of Jahannum. Whoever recites it four times, Allah Ta’ala will save his entire body from the fire of Jahannum اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّى أَصْبَحْتُ أُشْهِدُكَ وَأُشْهِدُ حَمَلَةَ عَرْشِكَ وَمَلاَئِكَتَكَ وَجَمِيعَ خَلْقِكَ أَنَّكَ أَنْتَ اللَّهُ لاَ إِلَهَ إِلاَّ أَنْتَ وَحْدَكَ لاَ شَرِيكَ لَكَ وَأَنَّ مُحَمَّدًا عَبْدُكَ وَرَسُولُكَ Note: When reciting the Duaa in the evening, one will recite the word إنى أمسيت instead of إنى أصبحت. One should not construe the above Duaa as a license to intentionally commit sins. However, one should regard this Duaa as a means of grace and blessings from the side of Allah Ta’ala. that if one mistakenly had fallen into sin, then Allah Ta’ala will forgive him through the blessing of this Duaa. Ihyaaud Deen

Question What is the correct way according to sunnah of drinking Zamzam water sitting or standing? Answer (Fatwa: 1220/1028/B=1433) Zamzam is very sacred and holy water. Hence it is better and mustahab to drink it while standing. However, if someone drank it sitting then it is also lawful. Allah (Subhana Wa Ta’ala) knows Best Darul Ifta, Darul Uloom Deoband

Q: How to deal with a husband who regularly disobeys Allah and gets angry when wife reminds him to stop bad habits? A: Don’t approach him directly. However, commence ta`leem in the home in the mornings and evenings for at least ten to fifteen minutes and then beg Allah Ta`ala’s assistance and guidance for all. And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best. ادعُ إِلىٰ سَبيلِ رَبِّكَ بِالحِكمَةِ وَالمَوعِظَةِ الحَسَنَةِ وَجـٰدِلهُم بِالَّتى هِىَ أَحسَنُ إِنَّ رَبَّكَ هُوَ أَعلَمُ بِمَن ضَلَّ عَن سَبيلِهِ وَهُوَ أَعلَمُ بِالمُهتَدينَ ﴿١٢٥﴾ Answered by: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

Easter Celebrations If anything is reminiscent of Easter, then it is of shops filled with chocolate bunnies, eggs and hot cross buns. For many of us it may simply be a time to indulge in goodies that only come around once a year. But what really is the meaning of all these things and should we be indulging? The BBC tells us the following: “Easter is the most important festival in the Christian calendar. It celebrates the resurrection from the dead of Jesus, three days after he was executed.” According to Christian belief, Good Friday commemorates the Friday on which Jesus was killed on the cross and the next Monday was the day he was resurrected. It is important for us and especially our children who may be exposed to such Christian beliefs at schools to know the true Islamic belief surrounding this issue. î Firstly, Allah is one, eternal and absolute. Neither does he have a son, nor does he die and subsequently be resurrected. î Secondly, Esa Alayhis Salaam (Jesus in English) was one of foremost prophets of Allah. His message, as was the message of all prophets before him, was to worship Allah alone and to submit to His will. î Thirdly, neither was Jesus killed or crucified. Allah Ta’ala divinely protected him and raised him to the heavens where he currently resides. Towards the end of this earthly life, Allah will once again send him to this world, where he will complete the rest of his earthly lifespan and will play his role in establishing Islam on the earth. These are integral beliefs of a Muslim. Ensuring that our children and ourselves are educated regarding the same are essential requirements of Imaan. Masjid Poster of this article can be downloaded here. Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians 223 Alpine Road, Overport,

Rayyan Institute Mercy. Inspiration. Relevance. Our VisionRayyan Institute aims to educate Muslims in their religion in a manner that is easy to comprehend and practical to implement in their lives. Realizing the importance of proper Islamic knowledge in the lives of all Muslims, we offer a commitment to seekers of knowledge to give them the tools to become better Muslims and role-models for their families and communities. With us, seekers of knowledge put themselves on a path through which they can acquire Divine Pleasure and Divine Mercy, which are both priceless. How we teach Rayyan Institute offers its classes in an online format, which means that all you need is an internet connection and a computer, tablet or phone (with speakers or headset) to attend a class from anywhere in the world. Our Approach One of the greatest challenges facing our communities today is that although people have the motivation to advance their Islamic knowledge, there is generally a lack of effort in seeing it through. This is due to a number of obstacles which we intend to remove. The first obstacle is that people think it is difficult to acquire sacred knowledge. They think that you have to be in a certain place, classroom, masjid, or seminary at a particular time. How many times have you desired to join a class you heard about online but were unable to attend due to distance or schedule conflicts. Now, you have access to interactive, live and pre-recorded, sessions from virtually anywhere in the world and learn from some of the best contemporary scholars. Another obstacle is the perceived difficulty in comprehending the subtleties and complexities of certain Islamic sciences. The aim at Rayyan Institute is to simplify our courses and make them easy to understand but without losing the nuances and subtleties of each science. Our teachers have experience in conveying their knowledge in a manner relevant to even the average Muslim.

Recite Durood From Wherever you May Be عن أبى هريرة رضي الله عنه قال قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم لا تجعلوا بيوتكم قبورا ولا تجعلوا قبرى عيدا وصلوا على فإن صلاتكم تبلغنى حيث كنتم (ابو داود رقم 2044) Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah (Radhiallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Do not make your homes into graveyards (i.e. Recite Qur’an and perform salaah in your home so that the home does not be a place void of Aa’maal as is the case of the graveyard), and do not make my grave a place of festivity, and recite durood upon me, for certainly your durood reaches me from wherever you may be. يَا رَبِّ صَلِّ وَ سَلِّم دَائِمًا أَبَدًا عَلَى حَبِيبِكَ خَيرِ الخَلْقِ كُلِّهِمِ

Ikhlaas - Sincerity from “Good Character” by Shaykh Maseehullah Khan (Rahmatullaah) a well known Shaykh of Tasawwuf. Essence: The sole intention in one's obedience to Allah ta'ala should be to please Him and attain nearness to Him. The pleasure of others or their happiness for reasons other than the above, the satisfaction of desires, the acheivements of material gain or any ulterior motive should not enter one's mind. Ikhlaas has different degrees: a) Complete Ikhlaas where the intention is to please Allah ta'ala only b) Ikhlaas of a lower degree is where the intention is to please others without ant motive of personal benefit. c) The lowest degree is the absence of any intention , being "empty minded". This is also Ikhlaas but is very close to Riyaa. Acqusition: 1. Remove Riyaa 2. Concentrate on the quality of deeds and not on their quantity. Where a deed is performed with complete sincerity, the rewards are proportionately greater.

Adopting Ikhlaas for Forty Days عن ابن عباس رضي الله عنهما أن رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم قال من أخلص لله أربعين يوما ظهرت ينابيع الحكمة من قلبه على لسانه )ذكره رزين العبدري في كتابه ولم أره في شيء من الأصول التي جمعها ولم أقف له على إسناد صحيح ولا حسن إنما ذكر في كتب الضعفاء كالكامل وغيره لكن رواه الحسين بن الحسين المروزي في زوائده في كتاب الزهد لعبد الله بن المبارك فقال حدثنا أبو معاوية أنبأنا حجاج عن مكحول عن النبي صلى الله عليه و سلم فذكره مرسلا وكذا رواه أبو الشيخ ابن حبان وغيره عن مكحول مرسلا والله أعلم( (الترغيب و الترهيب 1/62) Hadhrat ibn Abbaas (Radhiyallahu Anhuma) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Whoever adopts the condition of ikhlaas in all his Aa’maal (i.e. bringing true faith in Allah Ta’ala alone and doing every action for His pleasure in accordance to the prescribed manner) for forty days, then springs of wisdom will flow from his heart upon his tongue Ihyaaud Deen