ummtaalib

Sayyidina Umar al-Farooq (RA) A glimpse into the life of the second rightly guided Khalifa The divinely commissioned position of Risalaat denotes, inter alia, the faith of human accomplishment and excellence. By virtue of Rasulullaah (SallAllaahu alayhi wasallam) declaring Hadhrat Umar (Radhi-Allaahu-anhu ) as being deserving of that prominent appointment, when he mentioned:- "If there be a Nabi after me it should be Umar".Hadhrat Umar (RadhiAllaahu-anhu) definitely qualifies to be a colossal giant among mortals. WHO WAS HADHRAT UMAR (RADHIALLAHU-ANHU)? 1. He for whom the Beloved Nabi (SallAllaahualayhi wasallam) of Allaah prayed for to fortify Islaam. 2. Whom Allaah Ta'aala selected and deputed to elevate Islaam. 3. Before he accepted Islaam, Hadhrat Jibreel(AS) brought the good news to Nabi (SallAllaahu alayhi wasallam) to welcome him. 4. Upon arrival Nabi (SallAllaahu alayhi wasallam) welcomed him warm-heartily. 5. He whose Imaan strengthened all the Sahaabahs Imaan. 6. By his help the Muslims were able to pray to Allaah in the Haram Shareef. 7. Even the earth expressed its happiness when he accepted Islaam. 8. The river Nile flowed strongly celebrating the happiness of his accepting Islaam. 9. He was fortunate to enter the Ka'bah before all the other Sahaabahs. 10. Due to his entering the Ka'bah, the walls boasted with pride to the throne of Allaah Ta'aala. 11. Whose advantageous arrival in Islaam caused the well of Zam Zam to flow its sweetness to the river of Salsabeel in Jannat Ibn Mas'ud (RA) said that Hadhrat Umar's (RA) acceptance of Islaam was a great victory for Islaam, his emigration its success and his Khalifaat was a boon. In the eleven years of his rule Islaam made the greatest strides and the Muslims accomplished their greatest triumphs for the cause of truth, yet Hadhrat Umar remained the humblest and simplest amongst the Muslims. Truly the most deserving of following in Rasulullaah (SallAllaahu alayhi wasallam) footsteps al-islaam

Caliph Abu Bakr (r.a.) NAME AND PARENTAGE OF HADRAT ABU BAKR(R.A.) Hadrat Abu Bakr, as-Siddiq, (R.A.) was born in 573 A.D. at Makkah. Thus he was two years younger than the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). He belonged to a respectable and noble family, the Bani Tamim, a branch of Quraish Tribe. His lineage joins with that of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) six generations before. His name was Abdullah. Abu Bakr was his patronymic name (or Kuniyah) which became so famous that most of the people did not know his real name. After his conversion to Islam he received the title of "As-Siddiq" (The Truthful). His father's name was 'Uthman who was known by his patronymic name, Abu Qahafah. His mother's name was Salma but she was also known by her patronymic name, Ummul Khair. LIFE BEFORE ISLAM Since his boyhood, Hadrat Abu Bakr(R.A.) was a quiet and sincere man. He was very honest and truthful. Because of his sterling character he was the closest friend of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) since his youth and, the friendship proved to be life-long. He was a soft hearted man and keenly felt others sufferings and miseries. He used to help the poor and the needy, the distressed and the downtrodden. Even before embracing Islam he did not like most of the customs of the days of ignorance and never drank any liquor. His main profession was trade. He also accompanied the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) in some of his trade missions. Because of his honesty people trusted him and often kept their money as a trust with him. His nobility and truthfulness soon made him a rich trader. Actually these qualities were soon to serve the noblest cause of Allah. FIRST MAN TO ACCEPT ISLAM Hadrat Abu Bakr(R.A.) was a firm friend of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) and knew him better than any other man. His honesty, nobility, truthfulness and trustworthiness, had great attraction for Abu Bakr. When the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) disclosed to him secretly about the revelation of Allah, Abu Bakr accepted it immediately without having the slightest doubt. In this way he was the first adult free man to believe in the Holy Prophet's Mission, and became his confidant. The Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) once spoke about this, "When I invited people towards Allah, everybody thought over it and hesitated, at least for a while, except Abu Bakr who accepted my call the moment I put it before him, and he did not hesitate even for a moment." When he accepted Islam, the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) was very pleased. DA'WAT (INVITATION) TOWARDS ALLAH As soon as he had accepted Islam he started the work of Da'wat (Invitation towards Allah) first secretly and then openly when it was so allowed by the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). First he went to 'Uthman, Talha, Zubair and Said (Ridwanullah 'alaihim 'Ajma'in). They accepted Islam on his preaching. Next day he went to 'Uthman bin Maz'un, Abu'Ubaidah, Abdur Rahman bin 'Auf and some other prominent Quraish. They also accepted Islam at his hands. In the first instance eight prominent figures accepted Islam at the hands of Hadrat Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (R.A.). Among them was Hadrat Uthman, the third Caliph of Islam. In this way he was the first Muslim, after the Holy Prophet, to preach Islam and to invite people towards Allah in a very fruitful way. The main reason for his success was his popularity among the Meccans because of his honesty, nobility, trustworthiness, good morals and fair dealings. HARDSHIPS FOR DA'WAT (INVITATION) TOWARDS ALLAH Even though he was so much respected yet he was not spared, and disbelievers of Mecca did their best to harass him. When the number of Muslims reached 39, Abu Bakr (R.A.) asked the permission of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) to invite people openly. On his persistent request the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) gave his consent and all of them went to Haram (the Holy Mosque or Ka 'bah) for Tabligh (Preaching). Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) gave a Khutbah (Sermon) which was the first ever delivered in the annals of Islam. Hadrat Hamzah accepted Islam the same day. When disbelievers and idolators from amongst Quraish heard it they fell on the Muslims from all sides. Abu Bakr (R.A.) despite the fact that he was considered to be the noblest of all the people in Mecca, was besmeared with blood. He was kicked, thrashed with shoes, trampled under feet and handled most roughly and savagely. He became unconcious and half-dead. This is the place to observe his extreme love for the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) that when he gained consciousness and opened his eyes in the evening he first enquired. "How is the Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam)?" His deep love for the Holy Prophet, really, was the main cause of his success. His love and respect for the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam) was unbounded. On another occasion the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam) was offering his Salat in the Ka'bah, Abu Jahl came and put a sheet of cloth around his neck and twisted it hard in order to strangle the Holy Prophet to death. Hadrat Abu Bakr saw this, he at once came and pushing Abu Jahl aside took off the piece of cloth around the neck of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). He then said, "Do you want to kill such a gentle person who is a Messenger of Allah and declares Allah as the Cherisher and Sustainer." Then Abu Jahl and other enemies of Islam fell upon Abu Bakr and beat him severely. MISCELLANEOUS SERVICES FOR THE CAUSE OF ISLAM IN MAKKAH Hadrat Abu Bakr served Islam in numerous ways. The Quraish cruelly persecuted a number of slaves who had accepted Islam and made life difficult for them. Muslim slaves were the worst sufferers at the hands of non-Muslim masters. Hadrat Bilal (a negro), one of the best known in the galaxy of Companions of the Holy Prophet, was one among such slaves. His master Umayyah bin Khalf lashed him at night and made him lie on the burning sand during the day because of Bilal's conversion to Islam. Hadrat Abu Bakr bought him freedom and Bilal became a free Muslim. Other Muslim slaves who were bought by Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.), and made free were, 'Amir bin Fuhairah, Nazirah, Nahdiah, Jariah, Bani Momil and Bint Nahdiah etc. (R.A.). Before Hijrah Hadrat Abu Bakr spent lot of money on new converts. When he found himself hard pressed by disbelievers he asked the permission of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) to migrate to Abyssinia in the 5th year of the Mission with other Muslims. The Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) permitted him but in the way he met Ibn-ud-Daghna, the chief of another tribe, Qara. On his enquiry Hadrat Abu Bakr told him about the persecution of Quraish and his intention to migrate to Abyssinia. Ibn-ud- Daghna did not want him to leave Arabia and declared to the people of Mecca that Abu Bakr was under his protection. Then nobody dared to harm him. ABU BAKR(R.A.) GETS THE TITLE OF AS-SIDDIQ The Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) had Mi'raj (Ascension) in the IOth year of his Mission. He narrated his Ascension to the people in the morning. Some of them came to Abu Bakr and said, "Have you listened to your friend (the Holy Prophet)? He is claiming that he visited Jerusalem and the Sublime Throne in the heavens last night and talked with Allah Almighty. Would you believe it?" Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) immediately replied. "If he said so then it is an absolute Truth". They again said, "Do you believe that he visited all these places and came back within a small part of night?" He again replied. "Of course I believe in it and I believe in the things which are farther than it, i.e., the news of Hell and Paradise". For this the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) named him as-Siddiq i.e., the most Truthful and sincere person in Faith not having even slightest doubt. Of course Abu Bakr's faith was so strong that nothing could shake it. ONE OF THE TWO IN THE CAVE When the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam decided to migrate to Medina, Abu Bakr was the only companion with him. He carried all his money, about five to six thousand Darhams, and started in the night with the Holy Prophet. They lay hidden in the cave of Thaur for three days. The Holy Qur'an describes it as follows "When the disbelievers drove him out; he had no more than one companion. They were two in the cave. And he said to his companion: "Have no fear for Allah is with us". Then Allah sent down His peace upon him". (9:40) Abu Bakr's slave 'Amir bin Fuhairah tended the flocks of goats near the cave during the day and supplied them fresh milk in the night. After three days when Quraish stopped the search of the Holy Prophet, 'Amir bin Fuhairah (Abu Bakr's slave) brought two she-camels and both started for Medina. Thus, of all the companions, Abu Bakr (R.A.) had the honour of accompanying the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) in the most critical days of his life. He proved to be most trustworthy on all occasions. HADRAT ABU BAKR(R.A.) AT MADINAH He reached Quba (a place near Medina) with the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) and stopped there. The Medinites were anxiously waiting for the Holy Prophet. At Quba there was a warm welcome. The Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) stopped at the place of Bani 'Amr bin 'Auf at Quba. Multitudes of people came there to see the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) and most of them mistook Hadrat Abu Bakr as the Holy Prophet. On seeing this Hadrat Abu Bakr stood up and spread a sheet over the head of the Holy Prophet to protect from him the scorching rays of the hot sun. Then the Medinites recognised the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). On reaching Medina he fell ill because of the change of climate and got high fever. The Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) prayed for him and he was restored to health. At the time of establishing brotherhood bond between an immigrant from Mecca and a Medinite Muslim the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) took into consideration the position in the society of the two persons. Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) became the brother of Hadrat Haritha bin Zubair, a noted and respected Medinite. BUILDING OF THE PROPHET'S MOSQUE There was an urgent need for building a mosque at Medina and a house for the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam) and his family. The land which was selected for this belonged to two orphans. Their guardians wanted to give the land for the mosque free of charge but the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam) did not accept their offer and asked Hadrat Abu Bakr to pay the price of the land. Thus Hadrat Abu Bakr became the first Muslim to spend most of his money for the cause of Allah at Medina. He participated in the construction of the mosque like an ordinary labourer with other Muslims. PARTICIPATION IN THE HOLY WARS He fought in almost all the battles along with the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). In the first battle of Islam at Badr he was with the Holy Prophet like a shadow. His own son, who had not embraced Islam by that time, was fighting on the side of Quraish. After he accepted Islam he said to Abu Bakr one day, "Dear father! I found you twice under my sword at Badr but I could not raise my hand because of my love for you". "if I had got a chance", Abu Bakr replied, "I would have killed you". It was Abu Bakr's suggestion on which the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) decided to release the prisoners of war after taking ransom. In the battle of Uhud when some of the Muslims were running away, Abu Bakr was firm and when the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam) was brought on the mountain after being injured, he was with him. Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) was the first companion to accept the peace plan of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) without any hesitation at Hudaibiyah when all the Muslims insisted upon fighting. Even a Muslim like Umar (R.A.) hesitated to accept the treaty with the non-believers of Mecca but Hadrat Abu Bakr fully supported the Holy Prophet's decision. On the occasion of Tabuk expedition Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) brought everything that he possessed. When the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) asked him, "What did you leave for your family?" Abu Bakr (R.A.) said, "I have left for them Allah and his Prophet". Even Hadrat Umar (R.A.) admitted that he could never hope to surpass Abu Bakr (R.A.) in his sacrifice for the cause of Allah and Islam. AMIR (CHIEF) OF AL-HAJJUL-AKBAR (9 A.H.) It was the 9th year of Hijrah when the first Haj took place. The Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) had then returned from Tabuk expedition but he was so busy that he could not himself attend the Hajj pilgrimage. He sent Hadrat Abu Bakr as-Siddiq as his deputy to lead the Hajj caravan to Mecca. Among others in the Hajj caravan were Hadrat Sa'd bin Abi-Waqqas, Jabir, and Hadrat Abu Hurairah (R.A.). The Holy Qur'an calls this Hajj pilgrimage as "Al-Hajjul-Akbar" (The Great Hajj) because it was the first ever Hajj in the history of Islam and was the beginning of a new era of Islamic period and constitution. Hadrat Abu Bakr taught the people the Hajj rites and rituals and gave a historic sermon (Khutbah) on the Sacrificial Day before the congregation. Hadrat 'Ali followed him and proclaimed severance of all connections with the heathen world. It was announced: Non-believers should not approach the Ka'bah; no person should perform Hajj naked (as was observed before Islam); and all the treaties with pagan world would cease to operate after four months. The Holy Qur'an mentions it as follows "An announcement from Allah and His Apostle, to the people (assembled) on the day of the Great Pilgrimage (Al-Hajjul-Akbar), that Allah and His Apostle dissolve (treaty) obligations with the Pagans. If, then, you repent, it is better for you (0 Pagan), but if you turn away then you mind it that you cannot frustrate Allah. And proclaim a grievous penalty to those who reject Faith". (9:3) IMAM OF HOLY PROPHET(Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam's) MOSQUE Since his arrival at Medina the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) himself led the Salats at his mosque all the time. This was really a high office and was not given to anybody in the presence of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). A few months after his return from the Farewell Pilgrimage (AI-Hujjatul-Wida') in IO A.H., the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) fell ill. A time came when he was unable to move and could not go to the Mosque to lead the Salat. He had to appoint someone as the Imam and this honour fell to the lot of Abu Bakr. Abu Bakr's daughter, lady 'A'isha (Radiallahu Anha) was one of the most beloved wives of the Holy Prophet Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam). She knew that Hadrat Abu Bakr was a soft hearted man and it would be rather hard for him to replace the Holy Prophet(Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) in the Salat. So she pleaded with the Holy Prophet (Sallailahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) to excuse Hadrat Abu Bakr from this duty but the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) did not change his decision even though he was requested three times. During those days once Abu Bakr was not present at the time of congregational Salat. Somebody asked Hadrat Umar to lead the Salat. The Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) after hearing the voice of Hadrat Umar enquired about the Imam and when he found that Abu Bakr(R.A.) was not leading he was annoyed and said, "Nobody will lead the Salat besides Ibn Abu Qahafa (i.e. Hadrat Abu Bakr)". Then Abu Bakr (R.A.) was called but by that time Hadrat Umar had completed the Salat. The Salat was repeated by the order of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) and Abu Bakr (R.A.) led it. During his sickness, the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) once felt some relief and went for Zuhr Salat, supported by Hadrat 'Ali and Hadrat 'Abbas (R.A.). His face beamed with joy and full satisfaction on seeing Abu Bakr leading the Salat. Sensing the presence of the Holy Prophet, (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) Abu Bakr wanted to step back but the Holy Prophet stopped him and sat down by his side. After the Salat the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) gave his last address: "Allah offered one of His servants the choice of the life on this earth and a life with Him. But the servant accepted the latter". Hearing this tears came out of Abu Bakr's eyes and rolled down to his beard. He thought of the inevitable separation from his Beloved Master (the Holy Prophet). Most of the people did not understand the meaning of Holy Prophet's address and they were surprised at Abu Bakr's crying. Early in the morning of the last day of his life, the Holy Prophet's condition became suddenly better for a while. As the apartment was just adjoining the Mosque, he raised the curtain and observed the Muslims busy in Salat under the Imamat (leadership) of Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.). A smile lit up the pale face of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). Seeing the sign of the Holy Prophet's recovery the people in the Mosque lost control over themselves in sheer delight. They might have fallen out of the file but the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) asked Hadrat Abu Bakr to lead the Salat and he went inside and let the curtain fall. NEWS OF THE DEATH OF THE HOLY PROPHET (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) When Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) found the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) in a better condition in the morning of the last day of his life, he went a few miles outside Medina to meet his wife Hadrat Kharjah bint Zuhair (Radiallahu anha). After hearing the news of the death of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam), he immediately returned and saw great rush at the gate of the Mosque. He did not talk to anybody and went straight to Hadrat ' A'isha's apartment where the Holy Corpse was lying. After taking permission he entered the apartment and kissed the Holy Face, tears rolling out of his eyes. Then he remarked, "May my parents be sacrificed for you. I swear by Allah that death will never come twice to you. You have tasted the death which was destined for you and now you will get no other." He covered the Holy Body with a sheet and came to the Mosque. A multitude of people was crying in the Mosque. Hadrat Umar (R.A.) was in a strong emotional state and was shouting that the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) had not died. Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) tried to calm him but Umar did not pay any attention to him. Noting the delicacy of the situation, Hadrat Abu Bakr stood in another corner of the Mosque and gave his most effective and historical address. All the people gathered around him. He said: "O People! If any one of you worshipped Muhammad (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) he should bear in mind that Muhammad is dead. But those who worshipped Allah should know that He is Alive and will never die. Allah says in the Holy Qur'an: "Muhammad is only a Messenger of Allah. There came down a number of Messengers before him. Then would you turn back from Islam, if he dies or is killed?" The address of Hadrat Abu Bakr touched the hearts of the people. Hadrat Umar also cooled down. Hadrat 'Abdullah says, "It seemed that the verse of the Holy Qur'an to which Abu Bakr referred was just revealed, although we had recited it several times in the past" ABU BAKR(R.A.) CHOSEN AS THE FIRST KHALIFAH The Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) did not nominate his successor and left the choice of his deputy or viceroy (Khalifah) to his Ummah (followers). There were two groups of Muslims in Medina viz., Muhajirin (the Immigrants from Mecca), and Ansar (Helpers i.e., Medinites). After the death of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam), Ansar (Medinites) gathered in a big Hall of Medinah known as "Saqifah-i-Bani Sa'idah" to discuss the appointment of a Khalifah. Hadrat Abu Bakr and Hadrat Umar with other prominent Muhajirin (Immigrants) were in the Mosque. When they were informed about the gathering of Ansar, Hadrat Abu Bakr and Umar also went there accompanied by a number of eminent Muhajirin like Hadrat Abu 'Ubaidah bin al-Jarrah. Since Hadrat 'Ali and Hadrat Zubair (two prominent figures among Muhajirin) were not present at the spot, they could not go to the gathering. Much discussion was going on in the gathering of the Ansar about the selection of a Khalifah. Some of the leading Ansar wanted a Khalifah from amongst the Ansar. When Hadrat Abu Bakr heard it, he said. "We acknowledge the sacrifices of Ansar for Islam. You really deserve to have a Khalifah from amongst yourselves, but Arabs will not agree on any "Amir" (Chief of other than a person from the Quraish." Hearing Hadrat Abu Bakr another Ansari, Khabab bin Mundhar stood up and said, "Let there be two Amirs (Khalifahs) then, one from amongst Quraish and another from amongst Ansar." On this Hadrat Umar stood up and said, "This is not at all possible. There would be great confusion because of two Amirs." Hadrat Khabbab bin Mundhar did not agree with Umar and there was a hot talk between them. Hadrat Abu 'Ubaidah tried to cool them down. Then another Ansari Hadrat Bashir bin an-Nu'man (R.A.) stood up and said, "The Holy Prophet belonged to the Quraish tribe. Quraishites have preference over others. All the Arabs would agree on them. Therefore a Khalifah must be from amongst them. We do not want any dispute with Muhajirin in the matter of Khilafat. We the Medinites are Ansar (Helpers) and we would prefer to remain Helpers of Allah and His Holy Prophet (Sallaliahu'alaihi wa Sallam)." Another Ansari Hadrat Zaid bin Thabit (R.A.) also supported this view and said, "There should be a Khalifah from amongst Muhajirin (Quraishis). We Medinites were Ansar (Helpers) of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) and would remain Ansar (Helpers) of his Khalifah as well." A number of Ansar then supported this view, and there was general satisfaction in the council over the selection of a Muhajir (Quraishi) Khalifah. Seeing this Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) stood up and said, "I propose the name of Umar and Abu'Ubaidah bin al-Jarrah for this post. Select anyone of these two men as your Khalifah." But both of them refused and Hadrat Umar said, "Abu Bakr is the best of all of us because Allah has mentioned him in the Holy Qur'an saying: "The one amongst two in the cave" (9:40). He further said, Abu Bakr excelled at every occasion during the life of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). He deputised the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) in leading Salats, he was appointed the Chief of Haj caravan. As such he is the fittest person to be the Khalifah." Hadrat Abu Bakr still hesitated but Umar (R.A.) and Hadrat Zaid bin Thabit Ansari held his hand and took pledge of loyalty (Bai'at). Then Hadrat Abu 'Ubaidah bin al-Jarrah and Hadrat Bashir bin an-Nu'man Ansari also took pledge of loyalty at his hands. Seeing this people from all the sides rushed to pledge loyalty to Abu Bakr (R.A.) as the first successor of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam). Next day a general pledge of loyalty (Bai'at) was taken by the Muslims in the Mosque of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). Thus Hadrat Abu Bakr assumed the greatest office, after the office of prophethood, and became the first Khalifah of Islam. He gave his first address as a Khalifah in the mosque after the general "Bai'at""0 people! I have been selected as your Trustee although I am no better than anyone of you. If I am right, obey me. If I am misguided, set me right. Of course truth is honesty and a lie is dishonesty. The weakest among you is powerful in my eyes until I do not get him his due, Insha-Allah (If it should please Allah). The most powerful among you is the weakest in my eyes until I do not make him pay due rights to others Insha Allah. Allah sends down disgrace on those people who give up Jihad in the path of Allah. Allah surely sends down calamities on such people who indulge in evils. "I ask you to obey me as long as I obey Allah and His Messenger (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). If I disobey Allah and His Messenger you are free to disobey me. Now come and offer Salat." In his short address, Hadrat Abu Bakr showed the role of an exemplary Khalifah of Islamic Government. No doubt Islamic Government means: "Government of Allah and His Prophet, by His obedient servants for the benefit of the people in this world and in the Hereafter." About thirty three thousand people took pledge of loyalty (Bai'at) at the hand of Hadrat Abu Bakr in the mosque. The selection (or Election) of Hadrat Abu Bakr is a pointer towards Islamic Democracy and furnishes example for selection of a Leader for Ummat-i-Muslimah (Muslim Community) till the Day of Judgement. Hadrat 'Ali took pledge of loyalty a few months later because he was busy in collecting various parts of the Holy Qur'an. Some other reasons have also been given for his delay in "Bai'at'' which are ignored here. PROBLEMS FACED BY HADRAT ABU BAKR AS-SIDDIQ AS A CALIPH After the death of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam), the Arabs were on all sides rising in rebellion. Apostasy and disaffection raised their heads. Christians and Jews were filled with unrest. Some Muslim tribes refused to pay Zakat to the Caliph for "Baitul Mal" (the Public Treasury). Some disbelievers declared themselves to be prophets. There were many problems and much confusion. Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) faced all these with unparalleled courage and the highest degree of Iman (Faith) which is the characteristic of a "SIDDIQ". At this place I would like to point out that "SIDDIQIAT" is the highest stage of Iman (Faith) and "Tawakkul" (Trust in Allah) after prophethood as pointed out in the following verse of the Holy Qur'an "All those who obey Allah and the Prophet are in the company of those upon whom Allah has shown favours - of the Prophets, "Siddiqin" (The Sincere), "Shuhada" (The Martyrs), and "Salihin"(The Righteous Muslims): Ah! What a beautiful company." (4:69). In the following lines I would like to mention the main problems faced by Abu Bakr as-Siddiq (R.A.) in brief. USAMAH'S EXPEDITION The freed slave of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) and his adopted son, Hadrat Zaid bin Harith (R.A.) was martyred at the hands of Syrians (Romans) at Mautah in 8 A.H. A few weeks before his death the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) appointed Hadrat Usamah (R.A.), the son of Zaid to lead an expedition against Syrians in order to avenge the death of his father, Zaid. When Hadrat Usamah was about to leave, the news of the demise of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) came and the departure of the army was postponed. After being chosen as Caliph, the first task before Abu Bakr (R.A.) was to send out this expedition. As a matter of fact, it was the most critical time in the history of Islam. The entire peninsula was in a state of unrest and disorder. Some of the new converts thought Islam would come to an end with the Holy Prophet's life. Many of the tribes had entered the fold of Islam only a short time before and were not firm in Islam. About this the Holy Qur'an has already predicted "The wandering Arabs (Bedouins) say: We have (firm) faith. Say (to them O Muhammad): You believe not (firmly), but rather say "We submit", for the Faith has not entered into your hearts." (39:14). At the same time news came to Medina that apostates under the command of some false prophet were planning to invade the town. Hadrat Abu Bakr(R.A.) was really facing a difficult situation. In the circumstances, the companions approached him to withdraw the expedition of Hadrat Usamah bin Zaid. In their opinion it was unwise to send troops out of Medina because they were needed at home. Here was the test of Abu Bakr's (R.A.) faith in following the ways of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). He got through in his test and proved to be the most firm among all of his companions including Hadrat Umar. Abu Bakr (R.A.) said he could never alter the decision taken by his master (the Holy Prophet). He firmly replied to his companions, "How can I fold up the flag which was unfurled by the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam) himself?" When Muslims saw that Hadrat Abu Bakr was firm they requested him to change the command of Hadrat Usamah because he was too young and inexperienced -- not yet twenty, thus was not fit to lead the expedition. Hearing this Hadrat Abu Bakr was much annoyed and said, "Do you want me to dismiss a man appointed by the Messenger of Allah?" At last the army led by Hadrat Usamah left after three weeks of Holy Prophet's death. Hadrat Umar (R.A.) was also included in the army. Hadrat Abu Bakr sought Usamah's permission to leave him in Medinah, and he agreed. Hadrat Abu Bakr himself bid him farewell and went to some distance out of Medina. The young commander of the army was riding a horse and the great Caliph was walking by his side. After forty days Hadrat Usamah returned to Medinah with a great victory, the victory of Abu Bakr's (R.A.) firm Faith. The success of Usamah's expedition also opened the eyes of those who thought Islam was dying out after the demise of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). Some of the tribes again came back to Islam which they had left. FALSE PROPHETS Some disbelievers declared their prophethood and started revolt. Four of those were main figures among such false prophets. A brief account of them is given here. ASWAD'ANSI He rose in Yemen and was known as 'Ansi, "the Veiled prophet" because he put veil on his face all the time. After collecting a big army he stood up in open revolt against Islam. He was killed by Qais bin Makshuh and his followers scattered. TULAIHA He belonged to the tribe of Bani Asad in northern Arabia. Just after the death of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam) he rose in open revolt. Hadrat Abu Bakr sent Hadrat Khalid bin Walid to crush the rebellion. After a fierce fight Tulaiha's army was defeated and he ran away to Syria. Afterwards he again accepted Islam. SAJAH BINT AL-HARITH IN SUWAID She belonged to the tribe of Bani Tamim. After the death of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) a number of chiefs of this tribe including Malik bin Nuwairah repudiated Islam and Sajah declared her prophethood. Four thousand people including some of the chiefs gathered around her to march to Medina. She also forced those who did not co-operate with her to follow. On her way to Medinah she was informed about the Islamic army led by Khalid bin Walid who had crushed the rebellion of Tulaiha. Hearing the news of Islamic army she was frightened and wrote a letter to Musailimah al-Kadh-dhab (the Liar) seeking his co-operation. Musailimah had also declared his prophethood. A mutual understanding was reached in the beginning but later Sajah married Musailimah and accepted his prophethood. In the meantime Hadrat Khalid bin Walid reached the headquarters of the tribe of Bani Tamim. After the marriage of Sajah with Musailimah most of the people belonging to Bani Tamim had already re-entered Islam. Hadrat Khalid did not say anything to such persons but fought with those who were still apostates and defeated them. After crushing the rebellion of Bani Tamim he turned his attention to the notorious false prophet Musailimah al-Kadhdhab (the Liar). MUSAILIMAH AL-KADH-DHAB (THE LIAR) Musailimah belonged to a tribe of central Arabia. His tribe did not want to follow the "Prophet of Quraish" (the Holy Prophet), so they accepted him as a prophet. According to some historians he declared his prophethood during the later period of the Holy Prophet. However he openly did so after the death of Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). Hadrat Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (R.A.) sent Shurahbeel bin Hasnah and 'Ikrimah (R.A.) to crush the rebellion. Later on Hadrat Khalid bin Walid (R.A.) also joined them. Musailimah was commanding an army of forty thousand Bedouins. Some of them joined only to support their tribe although they did not believe in Musailimah. The Islamic army of thirteen thousand men was under the command of Khalid bin Walid (R.A.). A fierce battle was fought. A number of prominent Companions were slain in the fight. In the end Musailimah's army was defeated. He himself was killed by Wahshi, (R.A.) the same person who was responsible for Hadrat Hamzah's martyrdom in the battle of Uhad at a time when he was not a Muslim. In this battle about 800 Muslims were martyred among whom were 360 Companions of the Holy Prophet. A number of Huffaz. (i.e. those who committed all the Holy Qur'an to memory) were also martyred. Musailimah's defeat raised the standing of Muslims once more in the whole of Arabia. Thus in a short period the false prophets and their followers were wiped out by virtue of firm Faith and Wisdom of As-Siddiq al-Akbar. But there were still a number of problems to be solved. APOSTASY MOVEMENT: The new converts had not learnt the spirit of Islam. For centuries, the Arabian tribes knew no authority. Islam disciplined them and put them under certain moral obligations. Drinking and gambling of pre-Islamic days had been prohibited. Their wild spirit rebelled against this moral control. They wanted a chance which they got after the death of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam), and considered it the right time to throw off the yoke of Islam. That was the time when virtually the whole of Arabian peninsula was under the grip of civil war. It was the firm determination of As-Siddiq al-Akbar which permanently quelled the rebellions. Professor Hitti says: "The short khilafat of Abu Bakr was mostly occupied with the so-called Ridda (apostasy) wars". "The Arabs, throughout the peninsula," says another historian W. Muir, "were relapsing into apostasy". But As-Siddiq al-Akbar did not lose heart and faced the situation with utmost courage and Iman. The rebellion started with the refusal of the tribes to deposit Zakat fund in the Baitul Mal (Public Treasury) as was done during the days of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). Hadrat Abu Bakr called a meeting of his "Shura" (Advisory Council) and sought its advice. Most of the Companions did not consider it advisable to take action for the time being because of the wars against false prophets and major revolts. But Hadrat Abu Bakr was firm on taking strong and prompt action so that others may have a lesson. He therefore declared, "I swear by Allah I will fight alone, if others do not support me, against everybody whosoever refuses a single kid due on him in Zakat." He launched a big campaign without delay. He collected the troops in Medina and divided them into eleven battalions, each under the command of an experienced commander, and sent them out to different parts of Arabia. His instructions for them were to call rebels to Islam first, and if they failed, to fight them. Some of the rebel tribes submitted to Islam without fighting. Wars were waged against those who remained adamant. With the help of these battalions As-Siddiq al-Akbar crushed all the forces of rebellion, disorder and apostasy. He actually showed wonderful courage and ability in suppressing the movement. The apostasy movement which affected the whole of Arabia besides Mecca and Medina, was totally suppressed within a year and Islam was once again the only religion of the Peninsula. When the rebellion was subdued and Islam was re-established, As-Siddiq diverted his attention towards outside Arabia. Hadrat Khalid bin Walid (R.A.) was considered to be the fittest and most suitable commander for the external expeditions, which would be described later. THE REBELLION OF BAHRAIN: Bahrain is a small state in the north-east side of the Arab Peninsula by the Persian Gulf. The people of Bahrain accepted Islam in the lifetime of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). Soon after the Holy Prophet's demise the Muslim governor of Bahrain died and there was disorder in the province. As-Siddiq al-Akbar sent a battalion under the command of 'Ala bin al-Hadrami who defeated the rebelled tribe, Banu Bakr of Bahrain. The other tribe of Bahrain, Banu 'Abdul-Qais, was loyal to Islam and helped the Muslims against the rebels. OTHER REBELLIONS There were other rebellions as well in the adjoining small states like Oman, Mahra, Hadarmaut and Yemen. All these were also suppressed and crushed. START OF ERA OF CONQUEST The Arabian Peninsula was surrounded by the two great Empires of that time. On its north-eastern side was the border of Persian Empire. At that time Iraq was under the control of the Persian Empire. The Northern part of the Peninsula was bordered by the Byzantine Empire (the Eastern Roman Empire). It consisted of Syria, Palestine and Egypt. Byzantine was a Greek city on the Bosphorus and Byzantines were named after this city. It was made the capital of the Eastern Roman Empire in 330 B.C. by Constantine, the Great. The name of the city was changed later on to Constantinople after the name of Constantine, the Great. (Now it is known as Istanbul in Turkey). After suppressing the rebellions of internal tribes and adjoining small states, Abu Bakr(R.A.) turned his attention to the adjoining territories who were doing a lot of damage to Muslims and Islam and were continuously conspiring against Muslims. The Aim of as-Siddiq was not only to suppress their conspiracy against Muslims but, as a matter of fact, to spread the universal message of Islam. As we will see later, each expedition was advised first to invite the enemy towards Islam in a peaceful way, if they accepted the Message Of Allah, they were treated as brothers otherwise Muslims had to accept their challenge. The sword was used as a last resort for self-defence. Some of the main expeditions would be discussed in the following lines in brief which took place during the time of Hadrat Abu Bakr. EXPEDITION TO IRAQ (PERSIAN EMPIRES) There was a lot of confusion during those days in the Persian Empire. A child, Yezdgird, was ruling over the Empire under the supervision of a lady, Puran Dukht. The Persians helped the rebels of Bahrain and had done all they could do to crush Islam. There were certain Arab Tribes living near the border. Some of them accepted Islam while others were Christians. Muthanna, the chief of a border tribe (Wa'il) accepted Islam. Since the bordering Arabs tribes of Iraq (Persia at that time) were the main target of persecution by the Persians, Muthanna and his companions took advantage of the internal conflict of Persian Empire and started small fights. In order that the Persians may not wage a full scale war against Muslims Hadrat Abu Bakr permitted Muthanna to go ahead with his scheme. But later Muthanna came to Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) and sought his permission for a regular fight. The Muslims were endangered by the Persian Empire which wanted to wipe out the increasing power and might of Muslims. Moreover they were not pleased with the help given by the Persians to the Bahrain rebels. Abu Bakr (R.A.) after consulting his "Shura" (Advisory Council) permitted him to start full scale war on the condition that first he must invite Persians to Islam peacefully. Since Muthanna was not much experienced, Hadrat Abu Bakr ordered his great general Hadrat Khalid bin Walid (R.A.) to proceed immediately to reinforce Muthanna's army. It was the first month of the year 12 A.H. (633 A.C.). Hadrat Khalid met Muthanna's army at Ubullah. BATTLE OF CHAINS Hafir was the place where the first battle between Muslims and Persians took place. Persians were under the command of Hurmuz, a famous Persian general. According to the Islamic practice and advice given by the Caliph, Hadrat Khalid invited the Persians to Islam and wrote to them: "We have brought for you the Message of Allah, Islam. Our aim is not to fight. Accept Islam, the peaceful way, and you will be safe. If not then clear our way to the people so that we may explain this beautiful way of life to them. If you accept Islam you will have to pay Jizya (Defence Tax) to the Caliphate. If you do not agree to any of these conditions then the only alternative is the use of sword. Before deciding on the third alternative you should keep in your mind that I am bringing against you a people who love death more than you love your life". Hadrat Khalid (R.A.) was right in telling that Muslims loved death in the path of Allah more than life loved by non-believers. When a Muslim dies in the path of Allah he is a martyr and gets into Paradise before his blood falls on the earth. Persians were too proud and paid no attention to Hadrat Khalid's invitation. A battle took place at Hafir and Persians were defeated and routed. In order not to run from the battlefield the Persians soldiers had tied themselves to one another with chains. Due to this the battle is known as the Battle of Chains. But it proved fruitless because of the effective attack of Muslims. Even the commander of the Persian army was killed in this battle. After the Battle of Chains at Hafir some other small skirmishes took place at Madhar, Walja & Ullis etc. Each time the Muslims fought with a new force several times bigger than them but they defeated the Persians not because of their number and weapons but due to the power of Iman and trust in Allah. THE FALL OF HIRA Hira was a famous fort of Persians. After fighting the small battles described above Hadrat Khalid besieged the city of Hira. Persians resisted in the beginning but later on they surrendered to Muslims. Hadrat Khalid imposed Jizya (Defence Tax) on them. Then he captured other places including Dumatal-Jandal. Some frontier Arab chiefs also submitted to Khalid. The last battle of this expedition of Hadrat Khalid took place at Firad. A huge force of Persian Arabs (residing in Iraq) and Syrians who joined Persians in that battle crossed the river Euphrates. A fierce battle was fought on the l5th Dhul Qa'dah, 12 A.H. Hadrat Khalid routed the enemies and conquered the place. By this victory whole of South and most of the North Iraq were conquered. Then Hadrat Khalid returned to Hira. HADRAT KHALID BIN WALID, SAIFULLAH (THE SWORD OF ALLAH) Hadrat Khalid bin Walid (R.A.) proved to be the most successful general of Islam. With a handful of troops he was able not only to overcome all internal rebellions but also to make Arabia safe for Islam. Then he proceeded to Iraq and gained victory after victory. It was for his abilities, which were foreseen by the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam), that Khalid was given the title of "Saifullah" i.e. Allah's Sword. As-Siddiq al-Akbar was quick to recognise Khalid's (R.A.) ability he put him incharge of the Iraqi campaign. Hadrat Khalid's performance in this campaign has no parallel in history. With an army of a little more than ten thousand men, Khalid (R.A.) overcome a major part of Iraq and brought it under the banner of Islam. At many times he defeated enemies twenty times larger than his own army. Hadrat Khalid (R.A.) knew that success did not lie in the hands of majority or minority, it lies in the hands of Allah Almighty. He declared many times that they were not fighting for the sake of land or fame, their aim was to proclaim Allah's Kalimah (Allah's message). When Allah was with them they did not fear any power. Once he wrote a letter to a commander of Persian army near Hira "All praise is due to Allah who humbled your pride, and dis-united you, and destroyed your might. Accept Islam you will be in peace; or pay Jizya (the Defence Tax) and let us spread Allah's Message. If you do not accept any of these conditions then listen I have brought with me such people who love death more than you love life". In Iraq Hadrat Khalid fought fifteen battles and won complete victory in all of them. Hadrat Khalid was not only a great general and conqueror but also a great administrator. He appointed a deputy and a Qadi (Judge) at every place which he conquered. Some Muslim teachers were also left to teach Islam to the converts and to preach to non-Muslims by peaceful means. Seeing the character of these noble souls and the natural beauty of Islam, most of the time, entire population entered the folds of Islam. It is a fact that by sword or force only tongues could be won not the hearts. It was really the character of Muslims in those days that won the hearts of entire population where they lived. This is a clear proof that Islam never spread by sword or force. Sword was used to clear the way for preaching this truthful way of life, and when people realised its value, grandeur and significance they went all out for it. Iman (Faith) is the affirmation of the heart not of the tongue, and the heart could never be won by sword. Character has greater force than sword and this force was, of course, with the Muslims. Unlike most of warriors Hadrat Khalid, the Saifullah (R.A.), was an extremely kind-hearted man. He had given strict orders to his army to follow all the principles of Islam. They were not allowed to do any harm to farmers and other civilians. The army treated the civilians with kindness and respect. This was a surprise for the conquered people. Instead of molesting the women they found the soldiers worshipping and crying before Allah all night. This was something new for them. This was something new for them. It was said about Muslim conquerors of the time: "They rode on the back of horse during the day (to fight in the Path of Allah) and on the back of Mussalla (the piece of cloth used for prayers) in the night (to worship Allah). "The word by word translation is given here to put emphasis, it actually meant that they fought in the path of Allah throughout the day and worshipped Allah throughout the night. Of course even during the day they were punctual in obligatory Salats. As mentioned above the month of Dhul-Qa'dah, 12 A.H. marked the end of Hadrat Khalid's campaign in Iraq. He then returned to the headquarters at Hira. After resting for a while he took a few men with him and came to Mecca for Hajj and returned to Hira after performing the Hajj. On hearing about Khalid's presence at the Hajj, Hadrat Abu Bakr was amazed but he forbade him not to leave his army alone in future. EXPEDITION TO SYRIA (BYZANTINE EMPIRE) It has been stated in the life of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa -Sallam) that the envoy of the Holy Prophet, Dihya al-Kalbi, was killed by Syrians in 6 A.H. while he was on a mission to Roman Emperor. As a result of which there was the battle of Mu'tah. Later the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) himself marched with 50,000 men to Tabuk (a border post of Syria) when he heard about the invasion plan of Syrians (then known as Romans because Syria was a province of Eastern Roman Empire, the Byzantine at that time). Since Syrians did not turn up to fight, the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) and his Companions returned without any fight. Again there was a danger of Syrian invasion and the Holy Prophet appointed Hadrat Usamah bin Zaid (R.A.)as the commander of the army which was later sent by Hadrat Abu Bakr(R.A.) when he assumed the office of the Caliphate. It has been mentioned before that Hadrat Usamah (R.A.) returned victorious after about forty days. Afterwards Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) was informed about the clashes at: Syrians border and about the plan of invasion by Romans (i.e. Syrians). This was the time when Heraclius was the Emperor of Byzantine Empire, with Constantinople (Istanbul) as the Capital. When Hadrat Abu Bakr(R.A.)found that the Romans (Byzantines) began to conspire against the Muslims in co-operation with the Bedouins of the Syrian frontier, he consulted the "Shura" (Advisory Council) and decided to save the frontiers. As mentioned before, the aim was never to conquer other places. The blame totally lay upon the foreign powers who always encouraged the rebels and by sending them reinforcements attempted to shatter the nascent power of Muslims. Even Western historians like Sir William Muir admit that the Muslim leaders were not responsible for the wars with Persia and Byzantium. A famous Muslim historian, M.M. Siddiqi writes in his book, "Development of Islamic State and Society": "These (the wars) were not started by the Muslims, nor was there slightest attempt on the part of the Islamic leaders to impose their own way of life on the foreign peoples. True, Islam was a missionary religion and an expanding force. The Prophet himself had invited the ruling monarchs of the surrounding countries to accept Islam. But he had never, by word or deed, tried to trespass their domains" To take strong action against Romans (Byzantines) was also necessary keeping in view the Arab trade with Syria as the border clashes made the trade routes dangerous. So in the year 13 A.H. he raised a big army and divided it into four battalions. Each battalion was put under the command of an experienced general. They had to march in different directions. Hadrat Abu 'Ubaidah bin al-Jarrah(R.A.)had to march on Hims; Hadrat Amr bin al-'As(R.A.)on Palestine; Yazid bin Sufyan on Damascus; and Shurahbeel bin Hasnah on Jordan (which was a part of Syria at that time). The army was divided into many companies so that the enemy may not hit with full force on any one of the battalions. The total number of men was 27,000. At the time of departure of the army Hadrat Abu Bakr(R.A.)gave some valuable advice to each commander. A few of them are as under (1) Always fear Allah because He knows what the hearts conceal. (2) Treat your subordinates well. (3) Honour the representatives of your enemies. (4) Always be truthful. (5) Keep away from untruthful men and be intimate with those who are truthful and faithful. (6) Do not be dishonest in any way. (7) Do not disturb saints and worshippers of other religions. (8) Do not destroy places of worship. (9) Do not kill a woman, an old man and children and those who are not fighting with you. (10) Do not cut flowering trees. (II) Do not ruin any populated place. (12) Do not kill goats, camels and cattle besides what you need to eat. (13) Do not burn gardens. (14) Do not be dishonest in booty. When Heracleus heard about the Islamic armies, he also sent four armies to face them. Each of those armies was several times bigger than the total Islamic army. The Muslim commanders informed Hadrat Abu Bakr about the situation and sought reinforcement. They also informed him about their proposal to merge the four armies under one command. Hadrat Abu Bakr(R.A.)approved the proposal of merger and sent the following message to Hadrat'Amr bin al-'As(R.A.), one of the commanders "As-Salamo 'alaikum! (peace be unto you)I am in receipt of your letter in which you have mentioned about the huge Roman armies. Listen! Allah has not given us victories because of a magnitude or scarcity of numbers when we fought in the company of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). Sometimes we fought with him in such a condition that there were not more than two horses in the whole army, and travelled on the back of one camel turn by turn....... Muslims can never be defeated because of small numbers. 0 'Amr! the most righteous among us is the one who keeps away more from sins. Therefore obey Allah and ask your companions as well to obey Him (completely)....you would be successful." (quoted by Tabrani). He further wrote "I have sent orders to Khalid bin Walid (in Iraq) to join you immediately. When he joins you give him due regard. Do not impose your superiority over him and do not try to solve your problems without consulting him, and do not oppose him". (Quoted by Ibn Sa'd). On receiving orders from the Caliph, Hadrat Khalid handed over the charge of affairs in Iraq to Muthanna bin Harith, and hastened to Syria at the head of ten thousand Hadrat Khalid (R.A.) faced some resistance at many places on his way to Syria and conquered many cities and forts including Irak, Rahit, and Busra. Busra was a city in Syria, thus Hadrat Khalid conquered the first place in Syria before he joined the allied Islamic forces. At last he reached Ajna-dayn in the month of Rabi'uth-Thani 13 A.H. (according to some historians he reached in Rabi'ul-Awwal). THE BATTLE OR AJNADAYN: RABI'UL-THANI, 13 A.H. or 31st July 634 When Hadrat Khalid reached Ajnadayn he called a council of all the commanders of Islamic armies whose total strength was between forty and forty five thousand. The first proposal put before them by Hadrat Khalid was to appoint a commander-in-chief. He suggested that one of them should act as the commander-in-chief turn by turn each day. The chief command for the first day was given to Hadrat Khalid (R.A.). He divided the army into several sections and put each section under the command of a commander. The Romans were about two hundred fifty thousand in number while the Muslims were little more than forty thousand. When the Islamic and Roman armies faced each other somebody among the Muslims remarked: "How numerous is the Roman army!" Hadrat Khalid said, "The number of people does not matter. It is the final outcome which is important". At last the battle started. In the beginning the Romans put pressure upon Muslims. Seeing this 'Ikrimah bin Abi Jahl took pledge of some Muslims that they would not give the field to the enemy and would fight unto death. The Roman army was headed by Theodore, brother of Heraclius, the Emperor but there was not that type of discipline in their army as Muslims demonstrated. A fierce battle was fought. The Roman horsemen could not bear the brunt of Muslim attack, and started to flee. Roman cavalry was totally discomfited. Then Muslim forces fell on their infantry and dispersed its ranks. Thus Romans were badly defeated and I took shelter in the trench but were chased and slaughtered in large numbers. Three thousand Muslims were martyred in this battle. Defeat at the battle of Ajnadain was a great shock to Byzantium. After the victory at Ajnadayn the Muslim armies marched forward and laid siege to Damascus. In the meantime Hadrat Abu Bakr(R.A.) fell sick. He received the news of the victory at Ajnadayn when he was confined to bed. Note: There is a controversy between historians regarding the battle which took place at Ajnadayn in 13 A.H. According to some historians this was the battle of Yarmuk, while others say that the battle of Yarmuk took place after the fall of Damascus ILLNESS OF HADRAT ABU BAKR(R.A.) AND UMAR'S(R.A.) NOMINATION It was the 7th Jamada-ul-Akhira, 13 A.H. that As-Siddiq al-Akbar fell ill. He had a severe fever. When the illness took a serious turn he called the "Shura" (Advisory Council) to consult about his successor, the second Caliph. Since he had seen some confusion after the demise of the Holy Prophet for the selection of a Caliph, he preferred to let the Muslims decide the matter in his presence. Following were the leading figures present in the Shura:Umar, 'Uthman,'Ali, 'Abdur-Rahman bin 'Auf, Mu'adh bin Jabal, Ubaiy bin Ka'b, Zaid bin Thabit (Ridwanullah 'alaihim Ajma'in) and other leading Muhajirin and Ansar. According to some historians he first consulted some of the most prominent Companions before calling the meeting of the General Shura about this. Among these persons were 'Uthman,'Abdur rahman bin 'Auf and Usaid bin hadir (R.A.) etc.Hadrat Abu Bakr(R.A.)put his proposal for Hadrat Umar(R.A.)to be the second Caliph. All of them agreed with the proposal except for an objection by some of the Companions about his strictness. That was the only ground on which Hadrat'Ali and Talha (R.A.) also did not agree with Hadrat Abu Bakr(R.A.). But Abu Bakr(R.A.) rejected their plea on the ground that the burden of Caliphate would make him milder. Since there was no opposition to Hadrat Abu Bakr's view, Hadrat Umar was declared to be the next Caliph and all the Companions, including Hadrat'Ali (R.A.) and Hadrat Talha (R.A.), agreed to it. At this point I would like to point out that the decision of Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) for the selection (or election) of Hadrat Umar (R.A.)in his presence during his life was purely based on his "Ijtihad" (Personal Judgment of a Jurist) as explained by him after his nomination of Umar (R.A.) was recorded. As a matter of fact it was the need of the time and Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) was totally right in his "Ijtihad". The proof of this is also the "Ijma'" (Agreement) of the Companions on his proposal to select a Caliph while he was still alive. Although the appointment (election) of the Caliph did not take place in the same way as it happened with Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.), it was not un-democratic in the sense that the nomination of Hadrat Umar took place after fair consultation with the "Shura". Hadrat Abu Bakr never wanted anything which would make Islam weak after him. He knew what had happened after the death of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) the repetition of which was to be avoided. The strength of the Muslim community lay in unity and that had to be preserved at any cost. For these reasons Hadrat Abu Bakr(R.A.) wanted an agreed person to be nominated as his successor in his presence. Therefore he took a decision by "Ijtihad" for the nomination of a Caliph after due consultation. After the "Shura" (Advisory Council) had agreed on Hadrat Umar, Hadrat Abu Bakr asked Hadrat 'Uthman (R.A.) to write the will "Bismillah-irrahmanir-Rahim (In the name of Allah, most Gracious, most Merciful)--This is the declaration which is made by Abu Bakr bin Abi Quhafah while he is about to leave for the next world. At this time even a non-believer starts to believe, and even a great sinner returns to faith, and a disbeliever begins to trust in Allah. I appoint Umar bin Khattab as the Caliph (Khalifah). You must follow his orders and obey him. I have done everything good for the sake of Allah, for His Holy Prophet and for the welfare of His Religion and Muslims and for myself in appointing him (Umar as the Caliph). I hope that he would be honest and just but if he changes his ways, and becomes unjust, I would have no responsibility, as I do not have the knowledge of the unseen. Everybody is responsible for what he does." Afterwards he went up to his balcony with the help of some persons and addressed a big gathering of Muslims: "O my brothers! I have not appointed any of my relations or brothers as a Caliph, I have chosen the best person among you. Do you agree on this'? All of them replied in the affirmative. Then he called Umar (R.A.) and talked with him for a long time and gave him words of parting advice. Some of them are as under "O Umar always fear Allah. An optional deed is not accepted unless the obligatory deed is done. The weight of your goodness would be heavy on the day of Judgement if you followed the Right Path in this world. The deeds of the persons who followed wrong Path in this world be having no weight on the Day of Judgement. They will have a terrible time. Make the Holy Qur'an and Truth your guide for success. Umar if you follow the path I propose for you, I will surely be by your side..........". AS-SIDDIQ AL-AKBAR PASSES AWAY After a fortnight's illness, As-Siddiq al-Akbar passed away at the age of 61 on Tuesday, the 22nd Jamadal-Akhira, 13 A.H. (23rd August 634 A.D.). Before his death he said to his daughter Lady 'A'isha (Radiallahu 'Anha), "Do not use new cloth for my shroud. Wash the sheet in my use and wrap my corpse in it". His wish was acted upon. His next wish was to pay all the money he got as salary for Caliph from "Baitul Mal" (The Public Treasury) after selling his garden. He said, I did not like to take anything from the "Baitul Mal but Umar pressed me to accept some allowance so that I would be relieved of my occupation and devote my full time to the duties of the Khilafat (Caliphate). I was left no choice but to accept the offer". After his death 'A'isha asked Hadrat Umar to take over that garden as desired by her father. Umar remarked: "May Allah bless him. He left no chance for any body to open his lips against him". Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) was a rich merchant before his Khilafat. After he was selected as Caliph, Hadrat Umar and some other Companions put pressure on him to leave his business and accept some allowance from the Baitul Mal. He took the least possible amount which was hardly sufficient for him and his family. Once his wife wanted to prepare some sweet dish, and somehow saved something after one month. When she brought to him the money to make purchases for the sweet dish, Hadrat Abu Bakr said, "It seems that we have been over-paid, beyond our needs". He then deposited the saving in the Baitul Mal and she was not able to prepare the sweet dish. Not only this he got his allowance cut down for future by the amount saved by his wife. As-Siddiq al-Akbar left behind a noble example of selfless service. He lived and worked for the sake of Islam to his last breath, but sought no reward. WIVES AND CHILDREN Wives His first wife was Qatilah bint 'Abdul 'Aziz who bore to him 'Abdullah and Asma (R.A.). His second wife, Umm-i-Ruman gave birth to Lady 'A' isha (R.A.), the most beloved wife of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam), and 'Abdur Rahman (Rad A.). Besides these two he also married Asma' and Habibah (R.A.). Children Daughters (i) Ummul-Mu'minin Hadrat 'A'isha (R.A.) (ii) Asma, and (iii) Umm-i-Kulthum, born to Habibah after his death. Sons (i) 'Abdullah, (ii),'Abdur Rahman and (iii) Muhammad. ABU BAKR, A SAVIOUR OF ISLAM As-Siddiq al-Akbar took the office of Caliphate (Khilafat) at the most crucial and critical moment of Islamic history. He gave Islam a new life after the death of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). Islam, in its infant stage, when he was entrusted with the responsibility to Caliphate, was threatened by rebellions, rise of false prophets and apostasy movements. He crushed all the futile powers because of his unshakeable faith. No amount of difficulties could make him deviate from the Sunnah (Path) of the Holy Master. He brought unity among the Muslims and crushed all the rebellions. In view of his great service for the cause of Islam at that critical moment when there was a lot of confusion, Abu Bakr (R.A.) may rightly be called the Saviour of Islam. It was in the time of Abu Bakr that Islam started to cross the Arabian borders. A major part of Iraq came under his rule and Muslim armies had captured many important cities of Syria. Thus Islam, the religion of whole mankind, started to be a world religion in his period. COLLECTION OF THE HOLY QUR'AN One of the greatest services rendered to Islam by Abu Bakr (R.A.) was the collection of the Holy Qur'an. There were hundreds of Huffaz (i.e., those who committed the whole Holy Qur'an to memory) among the Companions during the life-time of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam) but it had not been compiled in book form though its memorisation continued even after the death of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). In various battles which took place against rebels and false prophets, a number of Huffaz Companions were martyred. In the battle against Musailimah al-Khad-dhab about seventy Huffaz had died. It then occurred to HadratUmar (R.A.) that necessary steps should be taken to preserve the Holy Qur'an intact in its original form against every kind of danger and it was not wise to depend exclusively upon those who had learnt it by heart. Therefore, he urged Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) to put it in black and white in the form of a book. Other Companions also agreed with Umar's opinion but Hadrat Abu Bakr hesitated in the beginning because it was not done by the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). However after some discussion he agreed to it and appointed Hadrat Zaid bin Thabit (R.A.) for this work who was hesitant at first but later, he changed his mind and started the work. Hadrat Zaid bin Thabit was the best qualified person for this work because he had acted as an amanuensis to the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam), and was one of the Companions who had learnt the Holy Qur'an directly from him. Moreover, he was also present on the occasion when the Holy Prophet recited the whole of the completed Holy Qur'an to angel Gabriel. Hadrat Zaid bin Thabit adopted the same order of the various chapters of the Holy Book as was revealed to the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). In the compilation of the Holy Book a number of prominent Companions assisted him. The compiled copy of the Qur'an was kept in the house of Umm ul-Mu'minin, Hadrat Hafsah (Radiallahu 'Anha) who was one of the wives of the Holy Prophet and daughter of Hadrat Umar. It was proclaimed that anyone, who desired, might make a copy of it or compare with it the copy one already possessed. The collection of the Holy Qur'an in a book form was not an act against the Sunnah (Ways) of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam), because the Holy Qur'an declares itself "A BOOK" at a number of places e.g., in the very beginning it says "This is the Book........." (2:2) During his caliphate Hadrat 'Uthman sent copies of the same compilation of the Holy Qur'an, collected during the period of Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.), to various places of his caliphate. In this way we see that Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) kept doing the great work of his Holy Master (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). With unshakeable faith and full courage he had struggled to the utmost. Islam is for ever grateful to its greatest hero, the next to prophets, for the great services he rendered to it. Hadrat Abu Bakr's caliphate lasted for only two years, three months and ten days (according to Islamic calendar). CHARACTER AND PIETY Hadrat Abu Bakr As Siddiq al-Akbar (R.A.) was the most distinguished figure of Islam after the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). He was mild and gentle but stern when necessary. He was the true embodiment of Islam. Being diligent, wise, full of wisdom and a great statesman, he occupies a unique place in the history of Islam. His name would remain for ever in the minds of Muslims. Hadrat Abu Bakr was the most pious Companion of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). He never took unlawful meal. Once one of his slaves brought for him some food to eat. He took a morsel out of it but afterwards he learnt that the slave got it as a result of soothsaying. He then remarked, "Ah! you would have surely killed me". He tried to disgorge it and when he did not succeed he drank water and then vomited the whole thing out. He never spoke any obscene language in any situation. Once he said a harsh word to Hadrat Umar (R.A.) which he realised later and asked him to forgive him. Hadrat Umar delayed in excusing him. He was so much perturbed that he went to the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam) who asked Umar (R.A.) to excuse him. Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) used to fear Allah most of all. Once he went to a garden where he saw a bird. He sighed deeply and said, "0 bird! you are lucky indeed! you eat and drink as you like and fly but do not have fear of reckoning on the Day of Judgement. I wish that I were just like you". Sometimes he said, "I wish I were a blade of grass whose life ended with the grazing of some beast; or a tree that would be cut and done away with". He was a great worshipper. It is said that Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) used to perform Salat similar to that of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). He was the one who spent all of his belongings for the sake of Allah and His Prophet (Sallallahu'alaihi wa Sallam). The Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) gave him the glad tidings of Paradise in these words: "Abu Bakr's name shall be called out from all the gates of Paradise and he will be the first person of my Ummah (people) to enter it". DEMOCRATIC WAY OF HIS GOVERNMENT Hadrat Abu Bakr(Rad. A,) gave the first lesson to whole mankind of 'government by the people' when nobody knew about it. On every occasion he decided matters after due consultation with eminent companions, He used to say: "I am but the Khalifah (deputy) of the Prophet of Allah"(i.e. I have to follow only the ways of the Holy Prophet). Many a time he told the people: "I swear by Allah, I never liked to be a "Khalifah". I even never thought about it, nor desired it either secretly or openly. The yoke of Khilafat has been put on my neck by force. I wish to transfer this trust to a more suitable person". Once some Muslims complained to him about the strictness of Hadrat Umar (R.A.) and said, "He is behaving in such a way as though he is the "Khalifah" instead of you". Hadrat Abu Bakr told them, "Of course, he is the fittest person to be the "Khalifah". I am but a humble servant of Almighty, who has been forced to take charge of this high office". "SHURA" (COUNCIL OF ADVISORS) Hadrat Abu Bakr always decided matters of state after consultation. There was a special "Shura" (Council of Advisors) for this purpose. Although the selection or the election of such council did not take place after public voting, but the prominent figures included in the "Shura" were the most popular persons in the public. If an election, as we know it today, had taken place at that time, all of them would have won it without any exception. The membership of the "Shura" was not based upon colour, race, wealth or worldly power; it was based upon services rendered to Islam, closeness to Allah and His Prophet (of course the closeness to Allah was demonstrated by the closeness to His Prophet). Ibn-i-Sa'd has recorded that whenever Hadrat Abu Bakr(R.A.) faced a problem, he called eminent Muhajirin, and Ansar and the following people (i.e. following people were the permanent members of the "Shura"). Hadrat Umar, 'Uthman, 'Ali, 'Abdur Rahman bin 'Auf, Mu'adh bin Jabal, Ubaiy bin Ka'b and Zaid bin Thabit (R.A.)" On special occasions common consultation took place in which all the prominent Muhajirin and Ansar (i.e. Companions) were called besides the above mentioned personalities. But generally only the above mentioned Companions were called for consultation. APPOINTMENT OF OFFICERS For public offices Hadrat Abu Bakr(R.A.) did not choose his own sons or family members, but gave the chance to people of high merit. Whenever he appointed an officer, he advised him and explained his duties. On the appointment of 'Amr bin 'As and Walid bin 'Uqbah as the collector of the Zakat from the tribe of Quda'ah, he advised them as follows "Fear Allah openly and secretly. Whosoever fears Allah, He provides him sustenance from such source about which he never thought. Whosoever fears Allah, Allah forgives his sins and gives him double reward. No doubt to have good will for the people is great piety. You are on such a way that you may go beyond the prescribed limits very easily. Stick to the rules prescribed by the religion and that would save you from all evils". When he appointed Yazid bin Sufyan as the governor of the conquered part of Syria he gave him following advice "O Yazid! you have relations in Syria, do not try to give unlawful benefits to your kins. Of this I am afraid of my officers. The Holy Prophet said: If a Muslim officer appoints his kins on big posts which they do not deserve, he will be cursed for that by Allah and Allah will not accept any of his excuses or apology for that until he enters Hell." SUPERVISION OVER OFFICERS He was a strict administrator and never allowed any of his officers to behave in an irregular manner. Whenever he found any officer amiss, he immediately warned him. Once on some mistake he wrote to Hadrat Khalid bin Walid: "You are enjoying, and the blood of Muslims is flowing nearby your tent". OFFICERS OF HIS GOVERNMENT The Capital of the State was Medina where Hadrat Umar and Hadrat'Ali (R.A.) were the Qadis (Judges) and Abu 'Ubaidah bin Jarrah was the treasury officer. Besides performing the duties of a Qadi and Mufti (Jurist), Hadrat'Ali also acted as the secretary to Hadrat Abu Bakr. Hadrat 'Uthman (R.A.) was the chief secretary and used to write various ordinances for the Khalifah. The governor of Mecca was Hadrat 'Utba bin Usaid. He and Hadrat Abu Bakr died the same day. Governors of other places were as under Ta'if -- 'Uthman bin al 'As San'a -- Muhajir bin Umayyah Hadramaut -- Zaid bin'Ubaid Kholan (a part of Yemen) -- Ya'la bin Ubaid South Yemen -- Abu Musa al-Ash'ari Janad (a part of Yemen) -- Mu'adh bin Jabal Bahrain -- 'Ala bin al-Hadrami Dumatul-Jandal (Iraq) -- 'Iyad bin Ghanam Iraq -- Muthanna bin Harith Najran -- Jarir bin 'Abdullah Near the end of his reign, Hadrat Abu Bakr had appointed following commanders of Islamic armies in Syria: Abu 'Ubaidah bin al-Jarrah, Yazid bin Abi Sufyan,'Amr bin al-As 'and Shurahbeel bin Hasnah. Hadrat Khalid bin Walid (R.A.) was the commander-in-chief and the greatest general of Islam during the time of Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) BAITUL MAL AND REVENUE ADMINISTRATION During the time of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) and also during the period of Abu Bakr there was no separate department for revenue. Zakat, Sadaqat and other taxes (Kharaj) and booty used to come to Medina for Baitul Mal which was under the charge of Abu 'Ubaidah bin Jarrah (before his departure to Syria as the commander of an army). Whatever funds came in the Baitul Mal were distributed among the needy and the poor immediately. During the later period of his Khilafat Hadrat Abu Bakr built a house for Baitul Mal but at no time money or any other thing accumulated in it. Once somebody asked Abu Bakr to take care of the Safety of Baitul Mal, he said that one lock was enough for that because mush was not allowed to lie in it. During the first year of his Khilafat he gave ten Dirhams as a stipend to each adult in Medina whether he was a free person or a slave, next year when the income had increased he distributed twenty dirhams to each person. In this way he gave the same status to a slave as that to a free person because in human needs all were equal. After the death of Abu Bakr (R.A.) when HadratUmar checked the Baitul Mal in the presence of Hadrat 'Abdur Rahman and Hadrat Uthman (R.A.), he found only one dirham in it, he exclaimed, "May Allah bless Abu Bakr". Then he called the treasury officer and asked him, "How much money did come in revenue for Baitul Mal?" He replied, "Two hundred thousand Dinars". (Note: Dirham was a silver coin in those days while Dinar was a gold coin). Following were the main sources of revenue: Zakat, Ushr (special land tax on lands), Jizya (Indemnity tax), and Booty. ARMY AND ITS ADMINISTRATION There was no regular Islamic force during the time of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). Hadrat Abu Bakr also followed his example. However, when any army departed during his time, he divided it into various battalions. Each battalion was put under the command of an officer, who was under the control of the commander of the whole army. Moreover, he also appointed commander-in-chief of various armies. The commander-in-chief of the four armies sent to Syria was Hadrat Khalid bin Walid (R.A.), who was also known as "Amir-ul-Umara", as mentioned in some books of history. He took particular care for the moral training of the military personnel. When he sent armies to Syria, he gave the following instructions to them:- "During your expedition you would find some people who devote themselves exclusively to worship of their Creator. Don't disturb them and leave them in their sanctuaries. I give you the following advice (i) Don't kill any woman, child or old person; (ii) Don't cut any flowering tree; (iii) Don't destroy any inhabited place; (iv) Don't kill camels or goats except when you need them for your meals; (v) Don't burn an oasis; (vi) Don't be dishonest in booty; (vii) Don't be coward in the field". He reserved a part of the revenue for purchase of arms and for the maintenance of forces. Special pastures were reserved for horses and camels used in the battles. One of such pastures was situated in Baqi' and another was situated at Rabadha. He also used to inspect army camps. There were no permanent cantonments during his time. Once an Islamic army was encamped at Jarf, Hadrat Abu Bakr (R.A.) himself went to inspect the army of Banu Fazarah. Seeing him all the men stood up in his honour and he said, "God bless you". Some of them said, "0 Khalifah (Deputy) of the Prophet of Allah! We have brought healthy horses and mares, and we are very good riders. Please give us a big standard". Hadrat Abu Bakr said, "I can't give you a big standard because it has already been taken by Banu'Abs". PREACHING OF ISLAM As the Khalifah (Deputy) of the Prophet of Allah, he paid special attention towards preaching the right way of life. Because of his efforts the whole of Arabia once more and forever re-entered Islam. He gave strict instructions to all the armies to call at first, the enemy to Islam. Invitation to Islam was usually given for three days before the start of a battle. A number of tribes in Iraq and other places accepted Islam without any battle when Hadrat Khalid and other commanders preached. Once a Christian bishop of Hirah accepted Islam after seeing the good conduct of the Muslims. THE DEPARTMENT OF JURISTS (MUFTIS) Besides the Judiciary in which Qadis (Judges) used to decide the cases, there was a special department of Muftis (Jurists) whose duty was to solve various problems of Muslims in the light of the Holy Qur'an and the Sunnah (Practices) of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). Following were the Muftis (Jurists) in Medina: HadratUmar, 'Ali, 'Uthman 'Abdur Rahman bin 'Auf, Mu'adh bin Jabal, Ubaiy bin Ka'b, and Zaid bin Thabit. No other person besides them was entitled to give verdict or to lay down rules of Islamic Law to Muslims in the light of the Holy Qur'an and the Sunnah. JUDICIARY The judiciary was totally separate from the executive. The judges appointed by Hadrat Abu Bakr were HadratUmar and Hadrat'Ali (R.A.) in Medina. Being a great Jurist Hadrat Abu Bakr was also a judge and gave decisions on various cases. PUNISHMENTS He used to give punishments as prescribed in the Holy Qur'an or told by the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam). He did not establish any police force or any department for it. However, he appointed Hadrat 'Abdullah bin Mas'ud as the Sentinel to take care of crimes. He also laid down such punishments which were given in the Holy Qur'an or the Sunnah. For example he fixed punishment of forty lashes for drinking liquor. He also paid special attention to the safety of highways and various parts of the state. He gave severe punishments to robbers and persons committing breach of peace. DIVISION OF ARABIAN PENINSULA INTO VARIOUS PROVINCES Hadrat Abu Bakr Siddiq divided the Peninsula into various provinces for convenience of administration. In his time following were the provinces of Arabia: Medina, Mecca, Ta'if, San'a (North Yemen), Yemen (i.e. South Yemen), Najran, Hadramaut, Bahrain and Dumatul-Jandal. Every province was under the control of a governor who was the chief executive officer of that region. He did not change the governors or the officers appointed by the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) during his time. He devoted his full energy to the administration of the new born Islamic state. Hadrat Abu Bakr's reign was short and full of rebellions, still his administration was very sound. He followed the footsteps of the Holy Prophet (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) faithfully and to the fullest possible extent and kept strict watch over the affairs of his government. Hadrat Umar (R.A.) always helped him in administration and justice and fulfilled the promise made by him at the time of the election of Abu Bakr (R.A.). He laid down the foundation of a true Islamic republic upon democratic principles. His strong Faith and Trust in Allah were reflected in his administration. A Western historian, Sir W.Muir writes: "His reign was short, but after Muhammad (Sallallahu 'alaihi wa Sallam) himself there is none to whom the Faith was more dear." Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net

A glimpse into the life of the first rightly guided Khalifa during his khilafat until his demise Sayyidina Abu Bakr was appointed the first Khalifah of the Muslim Ummah on the consensus of the Muhaajireen and Ansaar. 'Bukhaari' Sayyidina Abu Bakr put an end to the scourge of apostasy and eradicated the false claimants of Nabuwwat after Rasulullaah . 'Bidaayah wan Nihaayah' Sayyidina Abu Bakr fulfilled the final instructions of Rasulullaah to send out the army of Sayyidina Usaamah against the Romans. 'Ibid' Sayyidina Abu Bakr shook the foundations of the Roman and Persian empires, which ultimately led to the future victories of Islaam. 'Siyarus Sahabah' It was under the instruction of Sayyidina Abu Bakr that the Quraan was collected and compiled. 'Bukhaari' Despite his responsibilities as Khalifah, he still found time to tend to the widows and graze the sheep of the feeble and weak. 'Kanzul Ummaal' Sayyidina Abu Bakr was allotted an allowance from the Baitul-Maal (public treasury) scarcely sufficient for his basic needs. 'Siyarus Sahabah' When Sayyidina Abu Bakr passed away, all he had in his possession was a cloak, cup and a single slave, which he ordered to be deposited in the public treasury. 'Bidaayah wan Nihaayah' Sayyidina Abu Bakr passed away at the age of sixty-three and was buried alongside his dearest and closest friend, Rasulullaah . 'Tabqaat Ibn Sa'ad' Rasulullaah (RA) asked Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA) to accompany him on Hijrat and Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA) arranged the necessary transport and provisions. Ibid Sayyidina Ali stood outside the house of Sayyidina Abu Bakr , after he passed away and said out loud, "O Abu Bakr , may Allaah have Mercy upon you. You were the closest companion and friend of Rasulullaah , you were a comfort to him; you were the one he trusted most. If he had a secret, he would tell it to you; and if he needed to consult someone regarding a matter, he would consult you. You were the first of people to embrace Islaam, and you were the most sincere of them in your Imaan. Your Imaan was stronger than any other person's, as was the degree to which you feared Allaah. And you were wealthier than anyone else in terms of what you acquired from the religion of Allaah. You cared most for both Rasulullaah and Islaam. Of all people, you were the best companion to Rasulullaah ; you possessed the best qualities; you had the best past; you ranked highest; and you were closest to him. And of all people you resembled Rasulullaah the most in terms of his guidance and demeanour. Your ranking was higher than anyone else's, and Rasulullaah honoured you and held you in higher esteem than anyone else. When the people disbelieved in the Messenger of Allaah , you believed in him. Throughout his life, you were both his eyes with which he saw, and his ears with which he heard. On behalf of the Messenger of Allaah and Islaam, may Allaah reward you with the best of rewards." 'Majma'uz Zawaaid' al-islaam

Abyssinian Journey Rasulullaah (SallAllaahu alayhi wasallam) told Hadhrat Abu-Bakr (RadhiAllaahu-anhu) to emigrate to Abyssinia. He proceeded, although, feeling depressed, but he returned. The event concerning his proceeding and returning is very captivating. Hadhrat Abu-Bakr (RadhiAllaahu-anhu) departed for Abyssinia. He had just reached the border of Abyssinia called Bakrul Ghamaad, when he met a chief whose name was Ibn ud Daghna. He knew Hadhrat Abu-Bakr (RadhiAllaahu-anhu) very well and revered him too. When Ibn ud Daghna saw him, he exclaimed: "Abu Bakr! Where are you going ? " Hadhrat Abu-Bakr (RadhiAllaahu-anhu) answered : "The opponents do not allow me to worship Allaah in Makkah. Allaah's domain is not tiny. I am proceeding somewhere where I will worship Allaah". Ibn ud Daghna said: "This can never occur! Go back. What authority has anyone to tell you such a thing ! You are under my custody and responsibility!" Ibn ud Daghna came to Makkah and called all the high-ranking people and proclaimed :"You villains! You are expelling such a person from Makkah who attends to people tenderly, aids the destitute, is useful in troublesome times, and safe-guards your money". The enemies asked: "Who is that?" Ibn ud Daghna replied: "Abu Bakr". All of them retorted: "We are not disputing Abu Bakr in any manner. We only detest him on one point, that is, he recites the Qur'aan and weeps. And he recites in such a pleasing voice that when our women and children listen to it they begin to sob and become influenced.You tell to us if our women and children become Muslims, and leave us behind and go over to the Muslims, then what will transpire? Explain to him to recite the Qur'aan softly and worship secretly - we don't have any ill-feeling towards those things." Ibn ud Daghna said:"I have retrieved him from Barkul Ghamad. He departed from Makkah and was on his road elsewhere. I have brought him back under my custody. If any one were to be informed that the Makkans have expelled a person of the calibre of Abu Bakr he would spit in your faces. The idol-worshippers and the worshipper of One Allaah are both human beings, and humanity must be revered." A few days lapsed after Ibn ud Daghna had expressed these words when Hadhrat Abu-Bakr's (RadhiAllaahuanhu) ecstasy in worshipping Allaah and enthusiasm in reciting the Qur'aan compelled him, to recite the Qur'aan loudly. When he was overwhelmed he would sob. The Makkans reported this to Ibn ud Daghna who questioned Hadhrat Abu Bakr(RadhiAllaahu-anhu) concerning it. Hadhrat Abu-Bakr (RadhiAllaahu-anhu) responded simply: "The authority of Allaah and His Rasul Muhammad (SallAllaahu alayhi wasallam) is adequate for me. Your custody can remain with you." Hadhrat Abu-Bakr (RadhiAllaahu-anhu) was very knowledgeable and exhausted abundant time in prayer. When the "hijrat" occurred most of the Muslims in Makkah migrated to Madinah with the permission of Rasulullaah (SallAllaahu alayhi wasallam). Hadhrat Uthman (RadhiAllaahu-anhu) and Hadhrat Umar (RadhiAllaahu-anhu) also departed, but Hadhrat Ali (RadhiAllaahu-anhu) and Hadhrat Abu-Bakr (RadhiAllaahu-anhu) did not proceed. These two faithful men remained behind in Makkah-awaiting the order. Rasulullaah (SallAllaahu alayhi wasallam) and Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RadhiAllaahu-anhu) were companions in the "Hijrat". Hadhrat Siddiq-e-Akbar was well known. Wherever they travelled the people identified him and inquired : "Who is the gentleman with you?" Hadhrat Abu-Bakr (RadhiAllaahu-anhu) would respond:"This is my guide." People understood that it meant:"one who showed the road",while Hadhrat Abu-Bakr (RadhiAllaahu-anhu)meant: "One who emancipated people from fallacy and exhibited the genuine path."Both meanings could be deduced from just one sentence. Although Hadhrat Abu-Bakr (RadhiAllaahu-anhu) was two years younger than Rasulullaah (SallAllaahu alayhi wasallam) some of his beard's hairs were black, while others were white, but all of Rasulullaah's (SallAllaahu alayhi wasallam) hair was black, that is why the people of Madinah did not identify Rasulullaah (SallAllaahu alayhi wasallam) and mistook Siddiq for Rasulullaah (SallAllaahu alayhi wasallam). When Hadhrat Siddiq Abu-Bakr (RadhiAllaahu-anhu) shaded Rasulullaah (SallAllaahu alayhi wasallam) with his sheet in the extremeheat, the people of Madinah then perceived that the person on whom the shade was cast was, in fact, Rasulullaah (SallAllaahu alayhi wasallam). Hadhrat Abu Bakr R.A used to say, “There has never been a victory in Islaam greater than the victory at Hudaybiyyah but the people on that were day unable to understand what Muhammad ρ and his Rabb were doing. While man is hasty, Allaah does not have the haste man has, because of which matters condense to what Allaah as intended. On the occasion of the Farewell Hajj I have seen Suhayl bin Amr standing at the place where animals were being slaughtered, taking Rasulullaah S.A.W camel closer to him. Rasulullaah S.A.W slaughtered it with his own hand and then called for someone who shaved off his hair. I then saw Suhayl snatching up the hair of Rasulullaah S.A.W and even saw him placing it on his eyes. I then thought that it was the same Suhayl who on the occasion of Hudaybiyyah had refused to allow the writing of "most gracious most merciful" and had refused the writing of ‘Muhammad the Rasool of Allaah’. I then praised Allaah Who had guided him to Islaam.” Hadhrat Aa’isha R.A narrates that the family of Hadhrat Abu Bakr R.A once sent the leg of a goat to them. She then held it as Rasulullaah S.A.W cut it or it was she who cut it as Rasulullaah S.A.W held it. The narrators state that whenever Hadhrat Aa’isha R.A narrated this she would add that his was done without using a lantern. Another narration adds that the narrator asked Hadhrat Aa’isha R.A “O Ummul Mu'mineen! Was this done in the light of a lantern?” She replied, “If we had oil to light a lantern, we would have rather ate the oil.” al-islaam

Opinions of others regarding Abu Bakr (RA) Rasulullaah said, "No person has shown a favour to me except that I have repaid him with the exception of Abu Bakr ; he has shown such favours to me which only Allaah Ta'ala can repay on the Day of Qiyaamah. No person's wealth has benefitted me as much as the wealth of Abu Bakr ." 'Tirmidhi' Rasulullaah said, "As for you, O Abu Bakr ! You will be the first of my Ummat to enter Jannat." 'Abu Dawood' Rasulullaah said, "O Abu Bakr ! You will be my companion at the pond of Kauthar just as you were my companion in the cave (of Thowr)." 'Tirmidhi' Sayyidina Ammaar bin Yaasir said, "Whoever gives superiority to any companion of Rasulullaah over Abu Bakr and Umar has vilified the Muhaajireen and Ansaar." 'Tabraani' Sayyidina Anas bin Maalik said, "We studied the lives of the companions of the previous Ambiyaa and have not found any other Nabi having a companion as excellent as Abu Bakr ." 'Ibn Asaakir' Sayyidina Ali said, "I take an oath by Allaah! A moment of the life of Abu Bakr is better than the entire life of the Mu'min from the progeny of Fir'oun, that was a person who concealed his Imaan whereas Abu Bakr announced his Imaan." 'Musnad Bazzaar' Sayyidina Ali said, "Whoever says that I am better than Abu Bakr , I will punish him with eighty lashes as is given for false testimony." 'Haakim' The son of Sayyidina Ali , Sayyidina Muhammad bin Hanafiyah (A.R) said, "Abu Bakr was the best of the Sahabah in Islaam, from the time he embraced it until he met his Rabb." 'Ibn Abi Shaibah' The son of Sayyidina Hussein , Sayyidina Zainul Aabideen (A.R) said, "The status of Abu Bakr in the opinion of Rasulullaah was exactly what his status is now with Rasulullaah (i.e. alongside Rasulullaah )." 'Musnad Ahmad' His recitation of the Quraan would soften the hearts of others and inspire them to embrace Islaam. Ibid Rasulullaah (RA) asked Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA) to accompany him on Hijrat and Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA) arranged the necessary transport and provisions. Ibid The grandson of Sayyidina Hussein , Sayyidina Baaqir (A.R) narrated from his forefathers, "Abu Bakr became our ruler and he was the best Khalifah of Allaah; he was the most merciful and the kindest to us." 'Haakim' When Sayyidina Ali was asked to appoint his successor after being severely wounded, he replied, "Rasulullaah did not appoint a successor after him so how can I? However if Allaah Ta'ala desires good for the people he will unite them around the best of them after me just as Allaah Ta'ala united us around the best amongst us after Rasulullaah ." 'Haakim' al-islaam

The Obligation of Adhering to a Single Madhhab in all its Rulings If the obligation of a non-mujtahid is only to follow, or make taqlid, of qualified mujtahids, why do scholars insist on the added obligation of restricting one’s taqlid to a single madhhab? The paper linked below addresses this question, providing a detailed explanation for the necessity of adhering to a single madhhab in all its rulings. The obligation and its legal basis are supported by statements and opinions from major early authorities across the recognised schools of jurisprudence. It is argued that this ruling is not only more sound in the present context, but is also supported by strong positions from within each of the four madhhabs, with some of the early scholars having quoted consensus. Read Now...PDF The-Obligation-of-Adhering-to-a-Single-Madhhab-in-All-its-Rulings-PDF.pdf

Enjoyment of Action "The [perceived] enjoyment of sin ends as soon as one ceases committing the sin. But the enjoyment and pleasure of a good deed remains forever." Riyadhul Jannah (February 2014)

Good Character '...but instead tells himself that he does not mind any of these things...' This includes suppressing one's anger, and being gentle and humble. Allah Most High has said: Surely, you are of tremendous nature, (The Holy Quran: 68/4) and: Those who suppress their anger, and forgive other people – assuredly, Allah loves those who do good. (Quran: 3/134) Bukhari and Muslim relate that Abdullah Ibn Amr (May Allah be pleased with you) said, "The Messenger of Allah (Peace Be Upon Him) was never immoderate or obscene. He used to say, 'Among those who are most beloved to me are those who have the finest character.'" They also narrate that Hazrat Aisha (May Allah be pleased with her) said, "Never was the Messenger of Allah (Peace Be Upon Him) given the choice between two things without choosing the easier of them, as long as it entailed no sin. If it did entail sin, he was of all people the most remote from it. Never did he seek revenge for something done against himself; but when the sanctity of Allah was challenged, he would take vengeance for His sake alone." The meaning of good character is the inclination of the soul towards gentle and praiseworthy acts. This may take place in one’s personal actions for Allah Most High, or in actions which involve other people. In the former case, the slave of Allah has an open and welcoming heart for His commandments and prohibitions, and does what He has imposed on him happily and easily, and abstains from the things which He has forbidden him with full contentment, and without the least dissatisfaction. He likes to perform optional good acts, and abstains from many permitted things for the sake of Allah Most High whenever he decides that to abstain in that way would be closer to perfect slavehood to Him. This he does with a contented heart, and without feeling any resentment or hardship. When he deals with other people, he is tolerant when claiming what is his right, and does not ask for anything which is not; but he discharges all the duties which he has towards others. When he falls ill or returns from a trip, and no-one visits him, or when he gives a greeting which is not returned, or when he is a guest but is not honored, or intercedes but is not responded to, or does a good turn for which he is not thanked, or joins a group of people who do not make room for him to sit, or speaks and is not listened to, or asks permission of a friend to enter, and is not granted it, or proposes to a woman, and is not allowed to marry her, or ask for more time to repay a debt, but is not given more time, or asks for it to be reduced, but is not permitted this, and all similar cases, he does not grow angry, or seek to punish people, or feel within himself that he has been snubbed, or ignored; neither does he try to retaliate with the same treatment when able to do so, but instead tells himself that he does not mind any of these things, and responds to each one of them with something which is better, and closer to goodness and piety, and is more praiseworthy and pleasing. He remembers to carry out his duties to others just as he remembers their duties towards himself, so that when one of his Muslim brethren falls ill he visits him, if he is asked to intercede, he does so, if he is asked for a respite in repaying a debt he agrees, and if someone needs assistance he gives it, and if someone asks for favorable terms in a sale, he consents, all without looking to see how the other person had dealt with him in the past, and to find out how other people behave. Instead, he makes "what is better" the imam of his soul, and obeys it completely. Good character may be something which a man is born with, or it may be acquired. However, it may only be acquired from someone who has it more firmly rooted in his nature than his own. It is well known that a man of sensible opinion can become even more sensible by keeping the company of intelligent and sensible people, and that a learned or a righteous man can learn even more by sitting with other people of learning or righteousness; therefore it cannot be denied that a man of beautiful character may acquire an even more beautiful character by being with people whose characters are superior to his own. And Allah gives success! By: Imam Al-Bayhaqi islaaminfo

Sayyidina Abu Bakr Siddique (RA) A glimpse into the life of the first rightly guided Khalifa al-islaam Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA) never indulged in idol worship nor consumed wine before and after embracing Islaam. 'Ibn Asaakir' Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA) was the bosom friend of Rasulullaah (SAW) since childhood. 'Kanzul Ummaal' Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA) was the first adult male to embrace Islaam. 'Fathul Baarie' He would purchase and set free Muslim slaves, who were being persecuted, amongst whom were Hadhrat Bilaal (RA) and Hadhrat Aamir bin Fuhairah (RA) . 'Ibn Asaakir' In the period before Hijrat Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA) spent 35000 Dinaars (gold coins) on the welfare of the Muslims. 'Khulafa-ur Raashideen' Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA) defended Rasulullaah (SAW) from the assaults of the Mushrikeen. 'Bukhaari' His recitation of the Quraan would soften the hearts of others and inspire them to embrace Islaam. Ibid Rasulullaah (RA) asked Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA) to accompany him on Hijrat and Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA) arranged the necessary transport and provisions. Ibid The following persons from the forerunners of the Muhaajireen embraced Islaam through his efforts; ('Siyarus Sahabah') Hadhrat Uthmaan bin Affaan (RA) Hadhrat Sa'ad bin Abi Waqqaas (RA) Hadhrat Abu Ubaidah (RA) Hadhrat Zubair bin Awwaam (RA) Hadhrat Talha bin Ubaidullah (RA) Hadhrat Abdur Rahmaan bin Auf (RA) Hadhrat Abu Salamah (RA) Hadhrat Uthmaan bin Math'oon (RA) Hadhrat Khaalid bin Sa'eed (RA)

At which point does a person become a Musafir (Traveller) Q. I’m going to Johannesburg tomorrow for a few days. I live in Tongaat and the airport is close by to our home. If I read my Asr at the airport, (King Shaka), will I read full or Qasr Salah considering that I have not yet travelled the Safar distance? (Query published as received) A. Once you pass the boundaries of Tongaat, you will be a Musafir. Regardless of the airport being so close to Tongaat and that you have not yet travelled the Safar distance, you are a Musafir upon leaving the boundaries of your hometown as your intended destination is beyond 78 KMs. You will pray Qasr Salaah by reducing the four Rak’ahs of Asr to two if you pray Asr at the airport. And Allah Knows Best Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Objective of Life "We are aware that our objective in life is the worship of Allah subhaanahu wata'ala. However, we are ignorant of the true meaning and essence of worship. True worship is to abstain from disobedience to Allah subhaanahu wata'ala." Riyadhul Jannah (February 2014)

Special Dua for the Ummah Many of us want to make dua for the Ummah but we dont know how to go about it the right way. To make this easy on us all I thought to add some dua for the Ummah here so that we can include these in our daily dua qouta. These dua are taken from Qootul Quloob and Munajaat e Maqbool, they are easy to read, short and concise and come with some very heavy virtues. The dua are presented here so that myself and the reader can easily access them and utilize them. We are also from among the Ummah so when we make these dua we are included in them also. (source: @LoveDurood) (Click on pictures to enlarge)

(Click on picture to enlarge) Fragrance of a Rose

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem Ahadith on Surmah One should use Surmah (kohl / antimony) with the intention of Ajr (reward). It benefits the eye and one receives reward for following the Sunnah also. Hadith 1 Ibn Abbaas (RA) says : “Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said : ‘Use kohl made of Ithmid on the eye; it brightens the eyesight and strengthens and increases the growth of the eye lashes.’” Sayyidina Ibn ‘Abbaas (RA) used to say : ‘Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) had a small container for keeping kohl from which he applied kohl in each eye three times every night.’ Commentary Ithmid is a special type of kohl which is reddish black in colour. It is obtained in the Eastern countries. Some Ulama say it means those who have good eyesight and it should be used by those with whose eyesight it agrees, otherwise a sick person’s eye will pain more by its use. It is more beneficial to apply kohl at the time of sleeping as it will remain longer in the eyes, and will penetrate more into the pores. There are different narrations on the number of times it should be applied in each eye. In a few, it is stated that it should be applied 3 times in each eye, as mentioned above. In other narrations it is stated that it should be applied 3 times in the right eye and 2 times in the left eye. It is supposed that the variations are because of the different times of the narrations. At a certain time, Sayyidina Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) applied it in one manner and at another time, in the other manner. Hafez Ibn Hajar, Mullah ‘Ali Qaari and other ‘Ulama have preferred the first method. The first method has been narrated many times from Sayyidina Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) . Hadith 2 Hazrat Ibn Abbaas (RA) reports : “Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) applied kohl of Ithmid three times in each eye before sleeping.” In a narration also from Ibn Abbaas (RA), it is reported : “Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) had a small container for keeping kohl, from which he applied in each eye, kohl three times before sleeping.” Hadith 3 Hazrat Jaabir bin Abdullah (RA) says : “Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said : ‘Use the kuhl made from Ithmid for the eyes. It brightens the vision and strengthens the growth of the eye lashes.’” Hadith 4 Hazrat Ibn Abbaas (RA) says : “Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said : ‘The best from among all the kohl used by you is the one made from ithmid. It brightens the eyesight and strengthens the growth of the eye lashes.’” Hadith 5 Hazrat Abdullah bin Umar (RA) related the same Hadith from Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) that : ‘Verily use the kohl made from Ithmid. It brightens the vision and strengthens the growth of the eye lashes.’ Commentary In all the above narrations the use of Kohl made from Ithmid has been stressed. Only those eyes are meant that agree with the use of it, otherwise because of certain eye conditions, kohl does not agree with some people, as was mentioned previously. The Ulama have written that due to these commands and practices, it is Sunnah to use Kohl and it is better to use the one made from Ithmid. If one uses kuhl made from any other substance, it will be regarded as Sunnah, but the virtue is obtained by using kohl made of Ithmid. From ‘Shamaa`il Tirmidhi’. Source

10 Ways of developing love for Allah Ta'ala Shaykh Ibn al-Qayyim (rah) says: “The reasons which cause mahabbah (love) of Allaah Ta'ala to develop, are ten: First: Reciting the Qur’aan, reflecting and understanding its meaning and its intent. Second: Drawing closer to Allaah – the Most High – through optional deeds, after fulfilling the obligatory duties. Third: Being continuous in the dhikr (remembrance) of Allaah, with the tongue, the heart and the limbs – under all circumstances. The more continuant the dhikr, the more muhabbah develops and intensifies. Fourth: Giving precedence to what Allaah loves over personal loves, when being overcome by desires. Fifth: Contemplating and deliberating over the Names and Attributes of Allaah. Sixth: Recognizing and remembering the favors and bounties of Allaah – both manifest and hidden. Seventh: To be humble and submissive before Allaah – and this is the greatest matter. Eighth: To be in seclusion reciting the Qur’aan, during that time in which Allaah descends to the lowest heaven (which is the last third of every night), finishing this recitation with seeking Allaah’s forgiveness and repenting to Him. Ninth: To sit in the gatherings of the true and sincere lovers of Allaah, reaping the fruits of their speech, and not to speak except if there is benefit in it and that you know that such talk will increase you in goodness and that it will benefit others as well. Tenth: To stay clear of all those causes which distances the heart from Allaah – the Mighty and Majestic. So these are the ten reasons which cause the person to develop true love for Allaah and to reach the rank of al-muhabbah, by which he reaches his Beloved. Adapted from Shaykh Ibn Qayyim's (rah) Madarij-us-Saalikeen Islaaminfo

Adopting the ways of the Kuffaar It appears in the hadeeth that Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam) said that I absolve myself from the one who joins up with the kuffar. There are different explanations given to this Hadeeth, but the preferred explanation is that this refers to adopting their styles, customs and ways. Hence, when this is their season of celebration and you join them in their celebrations, then this shows that you have a liking for them. Our pious predecessors were very firm in this aspect. They never tried to do a balancing act and try to appease all people. Source: Al-Haadi

Has Gossip Made You Bankrupt..??? By Umm Ammarah You hear a juicy tit bit from a neighbour, who heard it from a friend, who heard from her sister on a social chat group, who added some “spice” to make it more appetizing… and so the gossip goes around town…sounds familiar? Gossip is dangerous and harmful; it can destroy the fabric and morality of a society. People spread gossip for many reasons such as to feel superior (they feel better if someone is worse off than them), out of jealousy, to fit in the group, for attention (they become centre of attention for a few moments), out of revenge and even out of sheer boredom (an idle mind is a devils workshop). We need to remind ourselves over and over again that we are accountable for our deeds in the Court of Allah. Allah Ta’ala says: "Oh you who believe! If a wicked person comes to you with any news, ascertain the truth, lest you harm people unwittingly, and afterwards become full of repentance for what you have done” (Quran 49:6). There once lived a gossip monger. He always preoccupied himself in talking about other s. He could not resist the urge. Whenever he heard a story about somebody he knew, and sometimes about somebody he did not know, he just had to tell it to his friends. Since he was in business, he heard a lot of rumours and stories. He didn’t care if it was true or not. He loved the attention he got from his gossip, which he sometimes spiced up with little details he invented to make them funnier, juicier and more palatable. Other than that, he was really a pleasant man. He kind of knew it was wrong, but . . . it was too tempting, and in any case, most of what he told had really happened, didn’t it? One day he found out something really weird about another businessman and his wife. Of course he felt compelled to share what he knew with his colleagues, who told it to their friends, who told it to people they knew, who told it to their wives and so the gossip spread around town until the unhappy businessman who was the main character in the story heard about it. He ran to the wise man of the town, and wailed and complained that he was ruined! His good name and his reputation were gone with the wind. The wise old man decided to call the man who loved to tell stories. If he was not the one who started them, he might at least know who did. When the nice man with the nasty problem heard from the wise man how devastated his colleague was, he felt truly sorry and admitted his guilt. “True, or not true, that really makes no difference! You just cannot tell stories about people. This is all slander, and it’s like murder—you kill a person’s reputation.” shouted the wise man. The man who started the rumour now felt really bad and sorry. “What can I do to remedy the harm ?” he sobbed. “I will do anything you say!” The wise old man looked at him. “Do you have any feather pillows in your house?, bring me one.” The man was mystified, but he returned with a nice fluffy pillow under his arm. “Cut it open!”said the wise man. The man cut the pillow. A cloud of feathers came out. Being a windy day,they floated all over the place and a lot of them flew out of the window in a big swirling, whirling trail. The wise man waited a while. Then he ordered the man: “Now bring me back all the feathers, and stuff them back in your pillow. All of them, mind you. Not one may be missing!” “That is impossible! The ones here in the room I might get, most of them, but the ones that flew out of the window are gone. I can’t do that, you know it!” “Yes,” that is how it is… once a rumour or a gossip or a ‘secret,’ leaves your mouth, you do not know where it ends up. It flies on the wings of the wind, and you can never get it back!” He ordered the man to sincerely repent to Allah Ta’ala and with remorse deeply apologize to the person about whom he had spread the rumour; that is difficult and painful, but it was the least he could do. After that he talked about the importance of guarding your tongue to all his friends and colleagues. And in the end he became an upright man who overcame a nasty addiction of tale telling! Allah, The Most Wise, says in the Quraan: “ Oh you who believe! Avoid suspicion for suspicion, in some cases is a sin. And backbite not on each other behind their backs. Would any of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? No, you would abhor it...But fear Allah. For Allah is Oft-Returning, Most Merciful" (Quran 49:11-12). The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: "When man wakes up in the morning each day, all his body parts warn his tongue saying: ‘Fear Allah with regards to us, for we are under your mercy; if you are upright, we will be upright and if you are crooked, we will be crooked." (At-Tirmidhi) The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) once asked: "Do you know what backbiting is?" His companions replied: "Allah and His Messenger know best." He then said: "It is to say something about your brother that he would dislike." Someone asked: "But what if what is said is true?" The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) replied: "If what you say about him is true, then you have backbitten him, but if it is not true then you have slandered him." (Hadith-Muslim) Let’s face it, we live in a world where gossip often crosses our path. People gossip and this cannot be changed overnight. But we do have the ability to change what happens when the rumour comes our way. We can simply break this chain of gossip by considering the following : · Beneficial or not? Try to ascertain the worth of the subject under discussion. If non-beneficial refrain from it. Why would I want to be a link in this sinful chain? · Put yourself in their shoes: Would I like people to know this about me? How would this person feel if they knew about this rumour? · Look for positive qualities in people: If you really have to talk about someone who’s not there, talk about how great, hardworking, funny, humble they are instead of deficiencies. · Fear Allah Ta’ala and Repent: Remember Allah can see and hear everything, we are accountable to Allah Ta’ala! If we have engaged in gossip than repent and also ask the wronged one for his or her forgiveness. · Don’t be an audience: Remember that according to a hadith by listening and letting it continue makes us equally responsible. · Change the topic or leave: Allah praised such action in the Quran: "If they hear gossip, they walk away" (Quran 28:55). Diplomatically change the topic and if you cannot than just walk away when your friend tries to gossip or just say "I'm not interested" and ignore any nasty comments. “When you see men engaged in vain discourse about Our Signs, turn away from them unless they turn to a different theme. If Satan ever makes you forget, then after recollection, do not sit in the company of those who do wrong.”(Quran-Al-An’am6:68) · Stop it right there! Do not provide the oxygen needed to spread the fire. Politely and with hikmah (wisdom) admonish and stop the perpetrator/s. · Guard the honour of your fellow being ,remember if you respect people’s privacy they will respect yours. The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:”if anyone defends his brother’s honour in his absence, then it is Allah’s responsibility to set him free from the fire (hell).”(Hadith-Musnad Ahmed) An excellent practice to apply in our lives is the TRIPLE FILTER TEST. One day a man tried to gossip about someone to a pious person. He asked the pious man whether he wanted to hear what he heard about his friend. The pious man replied: Wait before you tell me anything I want you to pass this Triple Filter Test. First Filter is TRUTH: Is what you are about to say absolutely true? The Man: No, I just heard about it. Pious Man: Alright so you tell me that you don’t really know if it is true or not. Second Filter is GOODNESS: Is what you are going to say is GOOD? The Man: No. Pious Man: So you want to tell me something bad and you are not sure that if it is true or not. Third Filter is USEFULNESS: Is what you are going to tell me going to be USEFUL to me? The Man: No. Pious Man: Well if you want tell me something that is neither True nor Good nor even USEFUL, why tell it to me at all? The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him was once asked: "Who is the best Muslim?" He (pbuh)replied: "He is the one from whom Muslims are safe from the evil of his tongue and hands." (Hadith-Muslim) Once The Messenger of Allah (Peace and Blessings be upon him) asked the Sahabah(RA) “Do you know who is bankrupt?” They replied, “Bankrupt among us is he who has no money or property.” He said, “Verily, the real bankrupt one from my Ummah is he who will come on the Day of Resurrection with prayer, fasting and Zakat that he performed. However, he had cursed this person, falsely accused that person, ate up the property of another person, shed the blood of another person and beaten another person. So, this person will be given from his righteous deeds, and that person will be given from his righteous deeds. If his righteous deeds finish before his account is paid in full, sins from their records will be transferred from them to him, and he will then be thrown in the Fire.” (Hadith Muslim ) We can destroy all our good actions by a few loose words that we utter in moments of heedlessness. We need to seek forgiveness of ALLAH TA’ALA, and from the one we wronged, if we have backbitten, slandered or hurt anyone, otherwise on the day of Qiyamat(Resurrection) we will have to compensate them with our good actions. “Great minds discuss ideas. Average minds discuss events. Small minds discuss people.” May Allah Ta’ala guide and protect us all… aameen EISLAM

Youth Dilemmas Are you a follower or leader? Selling Your Paradise for Someone Else’s World By Mufti Abdur Rahman ibn Yusuf As we get older, we gain more experience of life and particular situations. Having these experiences in life is important. How we deal with these situations allows us to discover the consequences of our decisions and we learn to modify our future reactions appropriately. Generally, once people see that certain actions lead to a bad outcome, and assuming that their minds are mature and they have a concern about their life and, more importantly, their life in the hereafter, they will immediately cease those actions in order to avoid the bad outcome. Similarly, if someone performs an action which brings about a good outcome, they will become inspired to continue acting in that way. A simple example of this is smoking. Many young people contemplate smoking because they are invited to smoke by the people around them, be it by irresponsible older siblings/cousins or others in their family, or by ’friends,’ if the person is socialising with the wrong type of people. Ask any smoker who has been smoking for a long time and it is guaranteed that the overwhelming majority will say that smoking is a very bad thing and they wish they had never started, but stopping is now very difficult because it has become so infused in their system and the urge to smoke is so great. As the saying goes “once a smoker, always a smoker”. Unfortunately, this realisation only comes with hindsight and experience, once it is too late. Now, if a young person heard this from a smoker, the question is will it deter them from trying to smoke? If the person is not a ‘follower,’ if they make their own decisions for themselves, then they may be deterred from trying. Unfortunately, the problem we have is that most people are followers rather than leaders, and are unlikely to be deterred by what they hear from someone more experienced than them if they are following the wrong examples. Essentially, it can be said most people are followers and only some are leaders. To expand further, someone is always there to set the trends. A lot of the time, these ‘trend-setters’ are intelligent people but their intelligence is sometimes applied to the wrong things. They then start encouraging other people, who are followers rather than leaders, to get involved. Outwardly, these leaders who encourage others towards negative things may appear to be successful and seemingly enjoying themselves, and so people are tempted to follow their examples to gain the same success and enjoyment that they appear to have. This applies to older people as much as it does to youngsters. However, Allah does not want us to follow these people blindly; He wants every one of us to think for ourselves. The guidance in the Qur’an and hadith are there for everyone. One scholar said that the worst types of people are those who sell their hereafter for someone else’s dunya (life in this world); a hadith says something very similar to this. In other words, to allow someone else to enjoy themselves in this world, people will sacrifice their own life of the hereafter. They may feel that they themselves are getting some enjoyment too, but deep inside, they know that what they are doing is wrong and they feel a sense of remorse or guilt, but because of the need to conform, they will continue with it regardless. The role of parents here is crucial. If parents advise their children on certain matters but, for whatever reason, they just don’t value their opinion or trust their advice (which is a very common problem between parents and teenagers), then the children should go and seek advice from another responsible adult. This could be an older cousin, an uncle or an aunt, anyone who is responsible and who they are able to talk to comfortably, openly and honestly. It should be noted that parents will always have their children’s best interests at heart, but unfortunately, sometimes young people do not understand this. As a twelve or thirteen year old, they think they know about things and what is best for them and parents ‘just don’t understand’. If a third party (a responsible adult) was watching this interaction between a parent and child, they would be able to tell straightaway that the child simply does not understand and lacks experience. As an adult, the question is how to get this message across to the child. This is a problem across all communities and has always been an issue. The difference in this day and age is that now, there is no sense of community supervision. In the past, adults would essentially police the youth wherever they were. These adults felt this was an obligation and a duty of theirs, and society benefited from it. Young people would be guided by the adults in the whole community, not just by their parents. The message they received at home would be reinforced by the guidance received from the wider community. Unfortunately, in this day and age, even if someone’s child is misbehaving in the mosque, it is difficult for an adult to tell that child anything as parents now are very intolerant when it comes to other people saying anything to their children. It is true that some people do not know how to deal with unruly children, but many parents do not like anyone ever telling their children anything, regardless of the manner in which it is done, because in their eyes, their children are angels and cannot do anything wrong. One key message adults need to get across to younger people is that they are still learning and developing an understanding of life, of people and of the world in which we live. Parents have seen more of the world, and are more aware of the potential dangers and pitfalls awaiting their children, so what can seem like a harsh regime of strict parenting is, in fact, parents doing what all parents instinctively do—protecting their children. In fact, for those of us who were born and/or raised here in the UK, USA or the west in general, I can guarantee that when we have children of our own (or as our young children grow older), we will be more strict with them than our parents were with us, and especially so if your own parents were not raised in this country. The reason for this comes from our experience of knowing what goes on at school, college etc. and also generally in the society in which we now live. We have experienced this culture and pressure for ourselves and will try to protect our own children from its bad influences. So my advice to young people is simple—do not sell your hereafter for someone else’s worldly pleasure. This is particularly true for those people who are seen as ‘leaders’. If you know people are following your example then you have a big responsibility. It is reported in one hadith that our beloved Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “The one who shows the right way will get a reward for everyone who follows that right way”. Although each individual who follows will get their own reward, the one who showed them or led them to the right way will also be rewarded for the actions of the followers. For example, if you encourage some friends to go out for da’wa (inviting people to the path of Allah) for any number of hours or days, you will also get the reward for your friends going and for every act of worship which is done by them during those days. By the same token, if you invite someone to do something wrong like vandalising someone’s property, drinking, taking drugs, smoking, clubbing and likewise, you (as well as them) will be considered a sinner for their actions. Allah Most High says in Surat al-Nas: “Say, I seek refuge with the Lord of Mankind; the King of Mankind; the God of Mankind; From the evil of the whisperer who withdraws (when Allah’s name is pronounced); The one who whispers into the hearts of people; Whether from among the Jinn or Mankind” (114:1–6). The whisperer who retreats at Allah’s name is Shaytaan, but the final verse here tells us that there are also people that whisper to others, encouraging them into wrong actions. This can be done by persuasion, by belittling those who abstain from bad actions and in other ways which make it difficult for someone to refuse, even though they know what they are being encouraged to do is wrong. What we must ask ourselves is do we want to be human Shaytaans? By encouraging others to do bad things, you become no better than a human manifestation of Shaytaan. It can start off with something small (like skipping school or putting something that does not belong to you in your pocket) and you may not think it is too bad or too serious but, gradually, it will inevitably lead to worse things. A friend of mine works in a young offenders’ institute. Having spoken with many of these young offenders to determine the cause of the behaviour which led to them being in this institution, he found that most of them pinpointed their parents as the main cause of them going to jail. By this, they meant that there was a lack of proper discipline at home, they had parents who were too soft with them and let them do whatever they wanted. One prisoner, who was there for stealing and shop-lifting, remarked that when he was a child and went to other people’s houses, his mum never made a big deal out of him taking other children’s toys from their houses. This is a common thing we see all the time, even with our own children; when we visit people with children, our child may like one of the toys at the house they are visiting. When it is time to leave, the child will want to take the toy with them and a generous (or embarrassed) host will probably say to let them have it. Unless the child’s parent is strict at this point, the child will expect to be able to be able to take toys whenever they visit another house. Similarly, in the case of this young offender, because his mother didn’t stop this behaviour, it then moved on from toys to picking pockets and shoplifting. What he was saying was that his mother almost made it acceptable to take things which were not his. This can even lead to negative effects on siblings, and in this particular case, this individual eventually got his sister involved. He now blames his mother for his situation, and wishes she had been stricter with him. When your parents are strict with you, you think they are being unreasonable. As I mentioned before, if there is conflict between you and your parents about how strict they are, seek a second opinion from someone who is older and wiser than you but whom you trust. Ask if they think your parents are being unreasonable or just trying to protect you and preserve you from getting involved in bad things. The reward for someone who can preserve themselves from bad things when they are in their youth is as great as that for someone who is a just ruler. Being a just ruler is very difficult because you have so much power to do almost anything you wish. This is narrated in the famous hadith of the seven groups of people to whom Allah will grant shade on the Day of Judgement when there will be no shade other than that under His throne. Each of these seven groups will have achieved something difficult, and one of these groups will be those who used to be focussed on worshipping Allah during their youth. Adults find it a challenge to worship and remember Allah, so to manage it during your youthful life when there are many temptations in your path which you must resist is a considerable achievement. These youths will still socialise with friends, play sports and enjoy themselves but they also remember to perform salat, keep good company, don’t mislead others, enjoy the halal and abstain from the haram etc. For this achievement, Allah will reward them with His shade on the Day of Judgement. If you can preserve your youth, the rest of your life will be preserved. If that message doesn’t resonate with you at the moment and seems difficult to believe, speak to some older people. If you know someone older who has led a life which you think is what you want, then that is even better. If only we could go to a prison and ask those people there how they ended up there and the lessons they would like to pass on, but for them it is now too late. Once you start getting into bad habits, it is very difficult to extract yourself because your desire takes control over you. Eventually, this leads to you becoming bolder, careless and reckless, and sooner or later, you end up in a place you do not want to be. One final request I would like to make is to ask you to be careful with how you use the opportunities (the bad or doubtful) that are available to you out there. Always question things and ask experienced people if they think something is good or bad. If your heart is already inclined towards (or even against) something, you are inherently biased when judging its merits so you should always get another opinion. Social internet sites can be very dangerous, especially if you start interacting with someone you know nothing about. Rather than simply chatting, it has now progressed to a stage where people are sending pictures of themselves to one and another or uploading them where anyone can see them. Picture exchanges are taking place between girls and boys without anybody realising how long these pictures will be available publicly and who will see them. These systems rob people of their modesty and honour, but nobody is compelling you to use them. Always think about what you are posting before doing so. If you don’t need a Facebook account (or any other kind of social media account) then do not have one just to appear cool. You don’t want to be in the situation where you end up ignoring your own parents who are in the same room as you, because you are too busy chatting online, whether it is Facebook, WhatsApp or anything else. Indeed, this is one of the signs of the Day of Judgement and our beloved Prophet Muhammad (Allah bless him and give him peace) said “a time will come when a person distances his parents but will bring close his friends”. Unfortunately, we are seeing this in our households today, but just because it is prophecy doesn’t mean we have to be part of it too. Being good to relatives has a great benefit, and in this regard, the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace) said “if someone wants a better quality life, with more sustenance and provision, then they should be good with their relatives”. If there are no good things which you are involved in, the minimum should be to attend Islamic classes or lectures, spend time inviting others to the deen, read a good Islamic book and pray at least one prayer in the mosque each day. This will give your iman a good boost and bring you great benefit. This is the only way you can stay strong and safe, as well as being able to socialise in an Islamic way. May Allah give all of us the right guidance—Amin Transcribed by Bilal Raja Edited by Ahmed Limbada zamzam academy

Question My husband wants me to wear nail polish all the time. I had read somewhere that you have to take it off for your prayers, and this would then be very cumbersome for me. I don’t understand the logic of this ruling either. If you wear henna, it stains your hands and nails, and water cannot get under the dye to your skin for several weeks, but we know that henna is allowed, and has been worn for ages. What is the difference that makes nail polish not allowed, and therefore what might you suggest as an alternative that I could do to please my husband that won’t make my life difficult at the same time? Answered by: Mufti Abdurrahman ibn Yusuf Assalamu alaykum Actually, nail polish is very different from henna. Nail Polish is like paint which forms a barrier on the nails so that water can not get to them, whereas wetting the nails is necessary in wudu and ritual bathing. Henna, on the hand, does not form a coating but changes the pigment of the skin and nails, hence, does not stop the water from reaching the nails or skin. In terms of an alternative, the most preferred is henna, since it has been recommended by the Prophet (upon him be peace). Since, a woman does not pray during menses, the problem of nail polish being a barrier for wudu would not arise during that time. However, if it was applied during that period it would have to be removed for the ritual bathing afterwards. Explain these points to your husband and hopefully he will understand the complication with nail polish. And Allah knows best. Wassalam, Mufti Abdurrahman ibn Yusuf zamzam academy

Question: I have a problem… In the month of May I started on 8th and finished on 14th. In May I started 28th which means that there wasn’t a 15 day gap of Purity. This means that i am in istihadha. However, I do not know what I have to do. Does this mean i can pray as long as I do my wudhu for each prayer for all the 7 days that I am on for? Or does it mean that I can pray until my 15 days gap have been done and then for the rest of the days i can’t pray? I’m not sure. I need to know… Jzk. Normal days that I’m on for is 7 days! Answered by Umm Yusuf Abdul Sattar Verified by Mufti Abdur Rahman ibn Yusuf In the name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful In situations of abnormal bleeding, we use a woman’s previous cycles to help her determine which part of her bleeding is menstruation, which is purity, and which is istihada. Istihada is that blood that a woman experiences that is not menstruation. During istihada, a woman is obligated to complete her ritual obligations, such as fasting and praying. With the information you have provided, we would assign six days as menstruation and eighteen days as purity. The bleeding you experienced from May 8 – 14 will be menstruation. The bleeding you are currently experiencing will be applied toward your normal eighteen days of purity, which will be counted from May 14 – June 1. After completing the allotted purity, you will consider the next six days menstruation. You should continue to apply the pattern of six days blood and eighteen days purity as long as you experience irregular bleeding. Should anything change, you should consult with a scholar, as the rulings are based on a specific set of circumstances. We also recommend keeping a detailed record of bleeding (regular and irregular) and purity, including dates and times. Lastly, the current bleeding is dysfunctional uterine bleeding (istihada), during which you should continue to pray, with a fresh ablution for each prayer time. You can also refer to “The Laws of Menstruation, Postnatal Bleeding & Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding,” for more information. Feb. 23 – Feb. 27 – 4 Blood 24 Days Tuhr March 23 – 29 – 6 Blood 16 Days Tuhr April 14 – 20 – 6 Blood 18 Days Tuhr May 8 – 14 – 6 Blood 14 Days Tuhr May 28 – Blood 4B, 24T, 6B, 16T, 6B, 18T, 6B, 14T, Blood (Joins) Take 6B, 18T as habit and apply that. So May 8 – May 14 is menstruation. And May 14 – June 1 will be purity. Then take next 6 days as menstruation. Answered by Umm Yusuf Abdul Sattar zamzam academy

Gift for New Muslims (Basics of Islam) Gift_NewMuslims_Print.pdf

Question After almost 1 and a half year I embraced Islam. I just don't like to make dua for my parents during Tashad (due to bad treatment in past from parent). Answer My question is that is it a sin if I stop making dua for them? Bismillahir Rahmanir Raheem Assalaamu alaikum wa rahmatullah May Allah bless you with piety (Taqwa) and purity, strong Imaan,forgiveness of sins, have mercy on you, elevate your status, and bless you with knowledge of Deen and generosity. Ameen! Islam is the religion of Mercy, Peace and Blessing. Its teachings emphasize kind heartedness, help, sympathy, forgiveness, sacrifice, love and care. If we understand it correctly, we will wish it for everyone, including our family and fellow human beings. Kindly review this article http://islameasy.org/K_Islam_Mercy.php Observing Islam and achieving salvation in the eternal life hereafter is an individual’s choice – a personal matter. A Muslim has true love and obedience of Allah Almighty. Since Allah commands good treatment of parents and fellow human beings, A Muslim is also kind to them, for the sake of Allah’s pleasure. There are limits to obedience for anyone if that comes against our obedience to Allah, who is the Creator of everyone! These two aspects are not contradictory, so there should be no confusion. Why do you think practicing Islam is disrespect to parents or Non-Muslims? In the life hereafter, no one will be able to save other person. Everyone is responsible for her own faith and actions. Practicing Islam is not a sin even if one has gone against her parents’ wishes. You will find it truly amazing that the answer comes direct from God, in the Holy Qur’an, Chapter 31, Verses 14-15 14. And We have enjoined on man (to be dutiful and good) to his parents. His mother bore him in weakness and hardship upon weakness and hardship, and his weaning is in two years - give thanks to Me and to your parents, unto Me is the final destination. 15. But if they (both) strive with you to make you join in worship with Me others that of which you have no knowledge, then obey them not, but behave with them in the world kindly, and follow the path of him who turns to Me in repentance and in obedience. Then to Me will be your return, and I shall tell you what you used to do. Islam teaches respect, sympathy and tolerance. Kind treatment of parents is a quality of the believer. The Quraan and Ahaadith are replete with orders and advices of being obedient to one's parents. Allah states, "And worship Allah and do not ascribe any partner to Him and be favorable to parents." (Banu Israaeel). The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) said, "Paradise lies under the feet of the mothers." It is clear from the above quotations that one should respect their parents and be favorable to them. The ruling is general. It includes parents who are Muslims as well as non-Muslims. Asma (Radhiallaahu Anha)states that her mother was a non-Muslim and came to visit her, she enquired from the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) if she can enjoin ties with her non-Muslim mother. The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) replied, "Yes". (Bukhari vol.2) Maintaining ties with non-Muslim parents or relatives presents one with an ideal situation to convey the etiquettes of Islam in a practical way. It is also important to point out that in dealing with non-Muslim parents or relatives, one must not compromise in one's Islamic values and principles. It is incorrect to obey anyone against the orders of Allah. Finally, there is no compulsion in religion. Islam is the continuation of the same original message brought by all previous prophets. And Allah knows best. Ask Alimah Forum

Question: Is it permissible to take photos and videos on holidays etc? Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. At the outset, one must know that Islam forbids making pictures of animate beings (i.e. humans and animals). Severe punishments have been mentioned in the ahaadith for making pictures (of animate beings). Consider the following ahaadith: Abdullah Ibn Masood (Radiyallaahu Anhu) narrates that the Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) said, “The people who will receive the worst punishment in the sight of Allah will be those who make pictures.” (Bukhari and Muslim) Aisha (Radiyallaahu Anha) narrates that once the Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) entered (her house) while there was a curtain with pictures in the house. (Upon seeing it) his face changed and he removed the curtain. He then said, “The people who will receive the worst punishment on the day of judgement will be those who make these pictures.” (Bukhari) Ibn Abbas (Radiyallaahu Anhu) narrates that he heard Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wa sallam) saying, “Everyone who makes pictures will be in Hellfire. A creature will be created for every picture that he made. It (the creature) will then punish him in Hellfire.” (Bukhari and Muslim) Based on the above, it is not permissible to make pictures of animate beings. Regarding taking photos with a camera and taking videos with a camcorder, it is not permissible to do so according to the majority of the scholars, as both of these acts fall under making pictures. Some scholars, however, deem it permissible to take photos with a digital camera provided that the photo is not printed on paper and also to take videos with a camcorder. According to these scholars, capturing an image on a digital camera and capturing video on a camcorder do not fall under making pictures, as these machines do not make/record images, they merely record digital bytes of data (in the case of digital camera) and electronic video signal (in the case of camcorder). Similarly, images and video displayed on a screen do not fall under the definition of pictures as envisaged in the ahaadith according to these scholars. However, printing the digital image on paper is not permissible even according to these scholars, as doing so falls under making pictures. From the two views, the first view (i.e. that it is not permissible to take photos and to capture videos regardless of whether a digital camera/camcorder is used or a non-digital camera/camcorder and regardless of whether the image is printed on paper or merely displayed on screen) is the more precautionary view, especially considering the severe punishment mentioned in the ahaadith. It is also the view of the majority of the scholars of the Indo-Pak subcontinent. The discussion above is in regards to taking pictures and videos of animate beings (humans and animals). As for taking pictures and videos of inanimate objects (such as trees, mountains, buildings, cars, etc.), it is permissible. And Allah knows best. Mufti Faizal Riza Darul Ifta Australia www.mufti-online.net