ummtaalib

Drinking directly from a large utensil One should not drink directly from a large utensil or any such utensil through which the contents one is consuming cannot be seen. عن ابن عباس قال نهى رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم عن الشرب من في السقاء (مشكوة المصابيح رقم 4264) 1. Hadhrat ibn Abbaas (Radhiallahu Anhuma) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) stopped us from drinking directly from the mouth of a water bag (as its contents could not be seen). 2. It is Mustahab for one to drink while sitting. However if it is Zam Zam water or the remaining water in the utensil after wudhu, then one may stand and drink the water. عن ابن عباس : أن النبي صلى الله عليه و سلم شرب من زمزم وهو قائم (ترمذي رقم 1882) Hadhrat ibn Abbaas (Radhiallahu Anhuma) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) drank Zam Zam water while he was standing. عن أبي حية قال : رأيت عليا توضأ فغسل كفيه حتى أنقاهما ثم مضمض ثلاثا واستنشق ثلاثا وغسل وجهه ثلاثا وذراعيه ثلاثا ومسح برأسه مرة ثم غسل قدميه إلى الكعبين ثم قام فأخذ فضل طهوره فشربه وهو قائم ثم قال أحببت أن أريكم كيف كان طهور رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم (ترمذي رقم 48) Hadhrat Abu Hayya (Rahmatullahi Alaihi) reports that I had once seen Hadhrat Ali (Radhiallahu Anhu) perform wudhu (in the following manner). He commenced by washing his hands till his wrists until he thoroughly cleansed them, thereafter he gargled his mouth thrice and inserted water in his nose thrice. Thereafter he washed his face thrice, and washed his hands till his elbows thrice. He thereafter made masah of the head once and washed his feet till the ankles. Subsequently, he took the water that was remaining in the utensil and whilst standing he drank the water. Addressing the people he said: “It was my desire to show you the wudhu of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) (i.e. this was how he performed his wudhu).”

Dars 1 – Introduction Dars 2 – Introduction 2 Dars 3 – Introduction 3 Dars 4 – Obediences Dars 5 – Waking, Using the Toilet, Iistinja Dars 7 – Istinja and Wudu Dars 7 – Wudu 2 Dars 8 – Ghusl and Tayammum Dars 9 – Going to the Masjid Dars 10 – Between Sunna and Fard of Fajr Dars 11 – After Fajr Until Sunrise Dars 12 – Sunrise to Dhuhr Dars 13 – Sunrise to Dhuhr 2 Dars 14 – Dhuhr to Maghrib Dars 15 – Maghrib Until Sleep Dars 16 – Value of Time, Salat Dars 17 – Salat 2 Dars 18 – Salat 3 Dars 19 – Etiquette of Imamat, Etiquette of Friday Dars 20 – Etiquette of Friday 2 Dars 21 – Fasting Dars 22 – Avoiding Disobedience Dars 23 – Falsehood and Breaking Promises Dars 24 – Backbiting and Argumentation Dars 25 – Self Purification and Cursing Dars 26 – Mocking Others and Halal Food Dars 27 – Private Parts, Feet, the Heart Dars 28 – Calamities of the Heart, Envy, Ostentation Dars 29 – Pride, Haughtiness, Hadith of Muaz Dars 30 – Hadith of Muaz 2, More on the Heart Dars 31 – Adab with Allah, the Teacher, and the Student Dars 32 – Adab with Parents, Friends, and Associates Dars 33 – Qualities in Friends Dars 34 – Rights of Friendship 1 Dars 35 – Rights of Friendship 2 Dars 36 – General Advice and End [HD] FULL Mangera Deceptions of the Dunya _2011_ Signs of the Day of Judgement _Aqeeda_ Mufti Abdur Rahman Yusuf Ability vs. Acceptance Advice to University Students Aqeedah of Imam Abu Hanifa Aqida Tahawiyya (The Creed of Imam Tahawi) Part 1 Autopilot salat Be, and it is_ The Power of Allah HD BEING AMONGST THE ULUL ALBAB _ Mangera Between Sulayman ibn Abd al Malik and Abu Hazim Absolutely Inspiring Bringing Barakah into Our Lives [HD] Class 1_ Al Arba’in of Muhammad ibn Jaffar al Kattani Part 2_2 Class 2_ Al Arba’in of Muhammad ibn Jaffar al Kattani Part 2_3 Class 2_ Al Arba’in of Muhammad ibn Jaffar al Kattani Part 3_3 Dealing with Depression and the Realities of Patience Divorce in Islam Divorce; The Illness & it’s Remedies Shaykh Mangera Du’a_ The Essence of Worship YTC 2012 Essential Fiqh of Ramadan Seminar 1_3 Essential Fiqh of Ramadan Seminar 2_3 Essential Fiqh of Ramadan Seminar Q&A Session 3_3 Etiquettes of Disagreement Fiqh of Salah Lesson 1 Fiqh of Salah Lesson 3 Following a Madhab Heart of a Believer [HD] Horse Meat Scandal_ Halal and Haram Issues Imam Abu Hanifa the Theologian Imam Ahmad ibn Hanbal’s Inquisition Imam Ghazali’s Advice_ How to Choose friends Imam Qurtubi’s_ The Secrets to Asceticism Islamic Spirituality_ Tasawwuf, Sufism and Tazkiya (Part 2) 1_3 HD Islamic Spirituality_ Tasawwuf, Sufism and Tazkiya (Part 2) 3_3 HD Ja’far al Sadiq, Muhammad al Baqir, Ali Zayn al Abidin Journey of the Soul Shaykh Hasan Ali Muhammad Abdul Jabbar Living and Dying for Allah Marriage Marriage Mawlana Ashraf Ali Thanwi Meet the Messenger The Shama’il of Imam At Tirmidhi Ramadan 2011 Understanding The Concept Of ‘Amr Bil Ma’roof Wa Nahy Anil Munkar Mufti Abdurrahman ibn Yusuf Mangera Muawiya_ The Restorer of the Muslim Faith Path to Piety 2012 Friday Session 2 Path to Piety 2012 Saturday Session 7 Qur’an & Purification of the Heart Q&A on Divorce Qasida Burdah in Praise of the Prophet Muhammad SAW Qasida Burdah_ Unravelling a Rose Ramadhan; Why do we Sin if Shaytan is Chained up_ Shaykh Mangera Reflections on Sura Qiyama, Revival of Islam Salaat & Salaam; Importance of Salawaat Shaykh Mangera Shaykh Gone Green Sura Qiyama_ Reflections on Style, Structure and Sound The Diligence of Our Righteous Scholars The Harms of Jealousy (Hasad) The Need To Revive The Ummah Mangera 1_2 The Need To Revive The Ummah Mangera 2_2 The Secrets of Ramadanic Success The Virtues and Etiquette of Traveling 1_2 HD The Virtues and Etiquette of Traveling 2_2 HD Virtues of Ashura_ 10th of Muharram What do Women Get in Paradise (Janna) When is the help of Allah_ Why is Sura Kahf so Significant

Q: I want to ask I always feel that I am a sinner and I did too many sins. What to do to avoid sins and also what should I do now for making tauba. Please guide me. I really feel bad. My life is miserable. A: Regularly meditate in this manner at a time when nothing obstructs you, perhaps after Esha salaah. Make wudhu correctly, perform two rakaats of namaaz and then focus deeply over death and the events that will follow after death, the loneliness of the grave, standing before Allah Ta`ala for reckoning, Jannah and Jahannum and thereafter think to yourself, can you tolerate Jahannum for a single moment. When you cannot, then how can you be brazen about matters that will take you to Jahannum. Reprimand yourself saying that you are enjoying the comforts of Allah Ta`ala and His favours during the day and night, and is this the way to show appreciation to the one who is so loving and caring. Then you do not have any understanding of loyalty and faithfulness to the one who is most loyal and beneficent. Thereafter resolve with deep remorse and regret after crying as much as you can, never to repeat these wrongs. And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best. قُل يـٰعِبادِىَ الَّذينَ أَسرَفوا عَلىٰ أَنفُسِهِم لا تَقنَطوا مِن رَحمَةِ اللَّـهِ ۚ إِنَّ اللَّـهَ يَغفِرُ الذُّنوبَ جَميعًا ۚ إِنَّهُ هُوَ الغَفورُ الرَّحيمُ ﴿٥٣﴾ وَأَنيبوا إِلىٰ رَبِّكُم وَأَسلِموا لَهُ مِن قَبلِ أَن يَأتِيَكُمُ العَذابُ ثُمَّ لا تُنصَرونَ﴿٥٤﴾ وَاتَّبِعوا أَحسَنَ ما أُنزِلَ إِلَيكُم مِن رَبِّكُم مِن قَبلِ أَن يَأتِيَكُمُ العَذابُ بَغتَةً وَأَنتُم لا تَشعُرونَ ﴿٥٥﴾ أَن تَقولَ نَفسٌ يـٰحَسرَتىٰ عَلىٰ ما فَرَّطتُ فى جَنبِ اللَّـهِ وَإِن كُنتُ لَمِنَ السّـٰخِرينَ ﴿٥٦﴾ أَو تَقولَ لَو أَنَّ اللَّـهَ هَدىٰنى لَكُنتُ مِنَ المُتَّقينَ ﴿٥٧﴾ أَو تَقولَ حينَ تَرَى العَذابَ لَو أَنَّ لى كَرَّةً فَأَكونَ مِنَ المُحسِنينَ ﴿الزمر: ٥٨﴾ يـٰأَيُّهَا الَّذينَ ءامَنوا توبوا إِلَى اللَّـهِ تَوبَةً نَصوحًا عَسىٰ رَبُّكُم أَن يُكَفِّرَ عَنكُم سَيِّـٔاتِكُم وَيُدخِلَكُم جَنّـٰتٍ تَجرى مِن تَحتِهَا الأَنهـٰرُ يَومَ لا يُخزِى اللَّـهُ النَّبِىَّ وَالَّذينَ ءامَنوا مَعَهُ ۖ نورُهُم يَسعىٰ بَينَ أَيديهِم وَبِأَيمـٰنِهِم يَقولونَ رَبَّنا أَتمِم لَنا نورَنا وَاغفِر لَنا ۖ إِنَّكَ عَلىٰ كُلِّ شَىءٍ قَديرٌ ﴿التحريم: ٨﴾ ولهذا قال العلماء: التوبة النصوح هو أن يُقلعَ عن الذنب في الحاضر، ويندمَ على ما سلف منه في الماضي، ويعزِم على ألا يفعل في المستقبل. ثم إن كان الحق لآدمي ردّه إليه بطريقه. قال الإمام أحمد: حدثنا سفيان، عن عبد الكريم، أخبرني زياد بن أبي مريم، عن عبد الله بن مَعقِل قال: دخلت مع أبي عَلى عبد الله بن مسعود فقال: أنت سمعت النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم يقول: "الندم توبة؟". قال: نعم. وقال مَرَة: نعم سمعته يقول: "الندم توبة". (ابن كثير) Answered by: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

Showing Compassion to the creation of Allah Ta’ala Islam teaches us to be kind and compassionate to the creation of Allah Ta’ala. Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) is reported to have said , الخلق عيال الله فاحب الخلق إلى الله من احسن إلى عياله The creation of Allah are the family of Allah Ta’ala (i.e. Just as a person loves his family, similarly Allah Ta’ala loves His creation.) and the most beloved from the creation in the sight of Allah Ta’ala are those who show kindness to His creation. Our elders and pious predecessors displayed this quality of compassion for the creation throughout their lives. They understood that this was the cornerstone to earn success in this world and the next. They were constantly concerned about being a source of mercy for the creation and refrained from causing the slightest inconvenience to any creation to Allah Ta’ala. This attribute was so deeply entrenched within them, that let alone showing compassion towards their kith and kin, friends and associates, even those who showed enmity towards them were put to shame through the kind conduct they afforded them. Their compassion and kindness was not only confined to the human species, rather it transcended beyond all bounds until even the animal kingdom enjoyed their warmth and love. Hereunder, we will relate a few incidents from the books of history in order for us to gain a glimpse of the compassion displayed by our pious predecessors. Perhaps through these few incidents one will be able to try to imagine the level of compassion and love for the creation in the lives of the Ambiyaa and the Sahabaha (Ridwaanullahi Ta’ala Alaihim Ajma’een). Ihyaaud Deen

40 Salat-Salam with sources mentioned interislam

40 Salat-Salam with sources mentioned interislam

how about this: http://www.islamicteachings.org/forum/topic/20140-virtues-ettiquesttes-of-durood-sharif/ many duroods here: http://www.islamicteachings.org/forum/topic/20108-salaat-wa-salaam-upon-nabi-sallallaahu-alayhi-wasallam/

In Raudhul Faa’ik the following story is related. there was once a woman who had a very evil son. In spite of the fact that she admonished him on numerous occasions, he paid no attention to her advice and never heeded her warnings. In this state without repenting for his evil, he passed away. His mother felt great sorrow and suffered much grief that he died without having repented. She therefore had a great wish to be able to see him in a dream. When she did see him in a dream, she was even more distressed to see him suffering great punishment. After some time, it so happened that she had seen him in a dream again. However, on this occasion she had seen him in great ease and comfort and extremely happy. She asked him the reason for the change in his condition. He replied: “A great sinner passed our graveyard. When he saw our graves he was greatly affected and took heed that he should change his life and become obedient to Allah Ta’ala before it is too late. He started to cry bitterly over his past sins and from a sincere heart, repented for his deeds. He then recited some verses of the Quran Majeed and twenty times recited durood on Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), and conveyed the rewards thereof to the inmates of the graves. I was one of the recipients and the portion that came to me had such an effect that it lifted me from my previous condition to what you now see. O mother, durood on Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) is the light of the hearts, a means of forgiveness of sins, and a source of mercy for both the living and the dead. (Fazaail Durood) يَا رَبِّ صَلِّ وَ سَلِّم دَائِمًا أَبَدًا عَلَى حَبِيبِكَ خَيرِ الخَلْقِ كُلِّهِمِ

Question and Answer: Q. A relative of mine had a miscarriage. She was 4 months pregnant and the baby was developed. Baby was removed by a D&C procedure. What is the procedure for the remains of the foetus ? Is it to be buried? (Query published as received) A. The foetus should be wrapped in a clean cloth and buried. There is no Ghusl or Janazah for a foetus or a stillborn. (al-Fatawa al-Hindiyyah, Vol: 1, Pg: 159) And Allah Knows Best Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

One should recite the following Duaa after drinking milk. اَلّلهُمَّ بَارِك لَنَا فِيهِ وَزِدْنَا مِنهُ O Allah grant us barkat and increase in this milk. عن ابن عباس رضي الله عنهما قال : دخلت مع رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم أنا و خالد بن الوليد على ميمونة فجاءتنا بإناء فيه لبن فشرب رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم وأنا على يمينه و خالد على شماله فقال لي الشربة لك فإن شئت آثرت بها خالدا فقلت ما كنت أوثر على سؤرك أحدا ثم قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم من أطعمه الله الطعام فليقل اللهم بارك لنا فيه وأطعمنا خيرا منه ومن سقاه الله لبنا فليقل اللهم بارك لنا فيه وزدنا منه وقال رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم ليس شيء يجزي مكان الطعام والشراب غير اللبن (ترمذي رقم 3455) Hadhrat ibn Abbaas (Radhiallahu Anhuma) reports: “On one occasion Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam), Hadhrat Khaalid bin Waleed (Radhiallahu Anhu) and I went to the house of Hadhrat Maymoonah (Radhiallahu Anha). She offered us some milk. Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) drank, while I was seated on his right and Hadhrat Khaalid (Radhiallahu Anhu) was seated on his left. Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) addressed me saying: “(Since you are seated on the right) you have the right to drink first, however if you wish, you may give Hadhrat Khaalid preference to drink first (since he is elder).” I replied: “I will not give preference to anyone over myself in regard to your mubaarak drink that is leftover (i.e. I wish to take the maximum barkat from it before anyone else).” Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) then said: “Whoever is blessed with food from the side of Allah Ta’ala, then he should recite the following duaa: اَللَّهُمَّ بَارِك لَنَا فِيهِ وَأَطْعِمْنَا خَيرًا مِنه O Allah, give us barkat in this food and bless us with something better. And whoever is given milk to drink, then he should recite the following duaa: اَلّلهُمَّ بَارِك لَنَا فِيهِ وَزِدْنَا مِنهُ O Allah grant us barkat and increase in this milk. Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) then said: “There is nothing that can be a substitute for both food and drink besides milk.” Ihyaaud Deen

We finished Part 2 by mentioning that when a person converts to Islam all his previous sins, no matter how grave or small, are eliminated. The slate is clean, free from sin, shiny and white; this is a new beginning. However there are some people who may hesitate to accept Islam because they fear they will be unable to stay away from sin. We begin part 3 by discussing this topic. 7. I want to be Muslim but I know there are some sins I cannot stop doing. If a person truly believes that there is no god but Allah, he or she should accept Islam without delay, even if they believe they will continue to sin. When a person is used to living a life unencumbered by any set of moral principles, Islam may at first seem like a set of rules and regulations that are almost impossible to fulfil. Muslims do not drink alcohol, Muslims do not eat pork, Muslim women must wear scarves, Muslims must pray five times every day. Men and women find themselves saying things like, “I could not possibly stop drinking”, or “I would find it too difficult to pray every single day let alone five times”. The reality is however, that once a person has accepted that there is no god worthy of worship but Allah, and developed a relationship with Him the rules and regulations drift into insignificance. It is a slow process of wanting to please God. For some, accepting the guidelines for a happy life is a matter of days, even hours, for others it can be weeks, months, or even years. Every person’s journey into Islam is different. It is important to remember that God forgives all sins. A believer can, by the mercy of God, be admitted to paradise no matter what sins he has committed. On the other hand, a non believer, one who worships something or someone other than the One True God, will be admitted to eternal Hellfire. Therefore given a choice between not accepting Islam altogether or being a Muslim who is sinning, the second choice is certainly much better. 8. I want to be a Muslim but I am afraid to inform others. As we have stressed repeatedly there is nothing in the world that should prevent a person from embracing Islam. If one fears the reaction of others, such as his or her parents, siblings or friends, and feels that they are not ready to inform them, still they should convert and try to practice Islam in secret as much as they can. As time passes, and the connection with God is established, a person’s faith will become stronger and they will know how to handle the situation better. In fact the new Muslim will almost certainly feel liberated and begin to feel the need to inform the whole world about the beauty of Islam. In the meantime it is a good idea to slowly and subtly prepare your friends and family for the changes that will obviously take place. Perhaps one could begin to talk openly about God and religion in general, express an interest in other faiths or Islam in particular. When a person begins to practice Islam, which is in fact a way of life, those close to them often notice a difference. They will see a new found respect for them, the family and society in general; they will also see a change in demeanour often from anxious and unhappy to relaxed and contented. Islam is a way of life and it's difficult to hide it for long. It is important to remember that when people learn of your conversion to Islam there will be a reaction. It will range from those that are happy and accepting, to those who feel upset and disappointed. Often those upset, with time get over it and begin to accept the change. And when they see many positive changes in you, they may actually begin to appreciate your conversion. One needs to stay strong, determined and know that God is with you. Your words and experience may very well lead others to follow your example. Trust in God, learn all you can about your new found faith and let the light of Islam shine through your eyes. 9. I want to be a Muslim but do not know any Muslims Some people learn about Islam from reading, others from watching the behaviour of Muslims they see in their cities and towns, some even learn about Islam from programs on TV and for others, it is the sound of the call to prayer. Often people seek and find the beauty of Islam without ever meeting a Muslim. It simply is not necessary to know Muslims before accepting and converting to Islam. Conversion to Islam is as easy as saying the words, I testify that there is no god but God and I testify that Muhammad is His messenger. The conversion does not have to be done in a mosque (Islamic centre) and nor are witnesses needed for the conversion. These things however, are manifestations of the brotherhood of Islam and mark the beginning of a new faith with the moral and spiritual support of others. Consequently after conversion it could be very helpful for the new Muslim to make contact with other Muslims. Members of your new spiritual family can be found by approaching local mosques and Islamic centres, or introducing yourself to the Muslim who lives down the street, catches the same bus, or works in the same company. However, even if a new Muslim is totally alone, he or she is connected to 1.5 billion other Muslims. Before or after conversion this website is available to help new Muslim or those thinking about converting to Islam. There are literally hundreds of easy to understand articles about Islam. After your conversion, this website will help you get started as a new Muslim by giving you useful resources and online support through Live-Chat.

There is no god but God. It is a simple statement that should make converting to Islam easy. There is only One God, and only one religion, nothing could be more uncomplicated. However, as we discussed in the previous article, whenever a person realises the truth and wants to become a Muslim, Satan introduces the word but. I want to be a Muslim...BUT. But I am not ready. But I don’t speak Arabic, or but I do not want to change my name. Today we will discuss more myths that prevent people from converting to Islam. 3. I want to be a Muslim but I do not want to be circumcised. Prophet Muhammad said that every child was born in a state of fitrah, with the correct understanding of God.[1] and the traditions of Prophet Muhammad tell us that the conditions related to fitrah (the natural state of being) are five. “Five things are part of the fitrah: shaving the pubic hair, circumcision, trimming the moustache, plucking the armpit hairs, and cutting the nails”.[2] This is believed to be the ancient way, the natural way, followed by all of the Prophets, and enjoined on the believers by the laws that they brought.[3] The majority of Islamic scholars agree that circumcision is obligatory for men providing they do not fear that it may harm them. When assessing the degree of harm a man must look to the Quran and the authentic teachings of Prophet Muhammad for guidance. If a man is not able to be circumcised due to fear of injury or any other valid reason that may make his life miserable, the obligation is waived. It is not permissible for the issue to become a barrier that prevents a man from accepting Islam[4]. In other words, it is not a condition for becoming a Muslim. Also, it does not prevent a man from leading the prayers. There is no requirement for female circumcision in Islam. 4. I want to be a Muslim but I am white. Islam is the religion that was revealed for all people, in all places, at all times. It was not revealed for a particular race or ethnicity. It is a complete way of life based on the teachings found in the Quran and the authentic traditions of Prophet Muhammad. Although the Quran was revealed in the Arabic language and Prophet Muhammad was an Arab, it would be wrong to assume that all Muslims are Arabs, or for that matter, that all Arabs are Muslim. In fact the vast majority of the world’s 1.4 billion Muslims are not Arabs. There are no racial or ethnic requirements for one to be a Muslim. In his final sermon Prophet Muhammad reiterated this fact very succinctly. “All humankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab and a non-Arab has no superiority over an Arab; a white person has no superiority over black person nor does a black person have superiority over a white person, except by piety and good action. Learn that every Muslim is a brother to every Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood.”[5] “O humankind! We have created you from a male and a female, and made you into nations and tribes, that you may know one another.” (Quran 49:13) 5. I want to be a Muslim but I do not know anything about Islam. There is no need to know a lot about Islam to become a Muslim. It is enough to know the meaning of testimony and the six pillars of faith. Once a person has embraced Islam, there is time for him to learn about his religion. There is no need to rush and be overwhelmed. Take things slowly, but steadily move forward at your own pace. There is time to understand the inspirational beauty and ease of Islam, and to learn about all the prophets and messengers of Islam including the last prophet, Muhammad. A Muslim never stops learning; it is a process that will continue until death. Prophet Muhammad said, “The believer will never have enough of listening to good things (seeking knowledge) until he reaches Paradise.”[6] 6. I want to be a Muslim but I have committed too many sins. When a person says the testimony of faith (Shahada), I testify that there is no god but God and I testify that Muhammad is His messenger, he becomes like a new born baby. All his previous sins, no matter how great or small are washed away. The slate is clean, free from sin, shiny and white; this is a new beginning. “Say to those who have disbelieved that if they cease, what has previously occurred will be forgiven for them…” (Quran 8:38) There is no compulsion for anyone to accept the truth of Islam. However if your heart tells you there is only One God, do not hesitate. “There is no compulsion in religion. Verily, the Right Path has become distinct from the wrong path. Whoever disbelieves in evil and believes in God, then he has grasped the most trustworthy handhold that will never break. And God is All-Hearer, All-Knower.” (Quran 2:256) Footnotes:[1] Saheeh Muslim [2] Saheeh Al-Bukhari, Saheeh Muslim [3] AS-Shawkaani, Nayl al-Awtaar, Baab Sunan al-Fitrah [4] Fataawa al-Lajnah al-Daa’imah, 5/115, Al-Ijaabaat ‘ala As’ilah al-Jaaliyaaat, 1/3,4 [5] The text of the Farewell Sermon can be found in Saheeh Al-Bukhari and Saheeh Muslim, and in the books of At Tirmidhi and Imam Ahmad. [6] At Tirmidhi

The most fundamental belief in Islam is that there is no true god (deity) but Allah. He, the One, the Only, the First and the Last, has no partners, sons, daughters or intermediaries. He is Alone in His Dominion and in His Omnipotence. It is a very simple concept, it is simply the truth. Nevertheless sometimes the pure belief in God can be overwhelming. Often we are surprised when we call for God and He answers immediately. The religion of Islam encompasses that simple concept – that God is One and wraps it in a package called submission. Islam means, submission to the will of God. The root word of Islam (sa-la-ma) is the same that is shared with the Arabic word meaning peace and security. In essence, peace and security comes from living life according to God’s will. Like a circle of life it always begins and ends in the same place – there is no god but Allah. When we submit to the will of God, we are Muslims and to demonstrate our sincerity we testify that we are Muslim by saying, alone or in the company of other Muslims, La ilah illa Allah, Muhammad rasoolu Allah. There is no true god (deity) but Allah and Mohammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, is His messenger. Whenever any human being experiences and understands God’s mercy, Satan tries his best to harm that individual. Satan does not want us to feel comfort and mercy; he wants us to feel anxious and depressed. He wants us to make mistakes and commit sins. Satan despairs of ever feeling God’s love therefore he wants to corrupt as many human beings as he can. (Satan said) “…surely I will sit in wait against them (human beings) on Your Straight Path. Then I will come to them from before them and behind them, from their right and from their left…” (Quran 7:16-17) Whenever a person realises the truth and wants to become a Muslim, Satan introduces the word ‘but’. I want to become Muslim...BUT! But I am not ready. But I don’t speak Arabic. But I am white. But I don’t really know about Islam. God warned us against Satan and his cunning ways. “O children of Adam. Let not Satan deceive you.” (Quran 7:27) “Surely Satan is an enemy to you so take him as an enemy.” (Quran 35:6) Satan’s whispers try to prevent us from converting to Islam. These ideas should not stand in the way of a person connecting, or reconnecting with the Most Merciful God. In this article, and the next, we will discuss some of the most prominent myths, lay them open to scrutiny and see that God is indeed Most Merciful. He makes converting to Islam easy, not difficult. No buts! 1. I want to be a Muslim but I do not want to change my name. A person embracing Islam does not have to change his or her name. Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, said that everybody was entitled to a good name, a name that had meaning or character. For the vast majority of people it is not an issue, however if you discover that your name has a bad meaning or an association with sinners or tyrants it is better to change it to something more acceptable. If the person’s name is a name of an idol or reflects servitude to something or someone other than God, then it has to be changed. Remember though that Islam is easy. If changing your name officially would cause hardship, distress or harm, it would suffice to change it only among friends and family. 2. I want to be a Muslim but I do not know any Arabic. The religion of Islam was revealed for all people, in all places, at all times. It is not a religion exclusively for Arabs or Arabic speakers. In fact the majority of the world’s 1.4 billion Muslims are not from an Arab background. A person can become Muslim without knowing a single word of Arabic; it does not affect his or her ability to accept Islam. However, the language of Quran is Arabic and the daily prayers are performed in Arabic, so although it is not necessary to learn the whole language, after conversion it will be necessary to learn some Arabic words. If a person is unable to learn enough Arabic to perform his prayers because of a speech defect or because he is not able to pronounce the Arabic, he must try as much as he can. If learning at least some Arabic is not possible, then he is relieved of this obligation, because God does not burden people with more than they are able to bear. However God also says that he has made learning Quran easy, therefore it is obligatory for a person to try his best. “God burdens not a person beyond his scope.” (Quran 2:286) “And We have indeed made the Quran easy to understand and remember” (Quran 54:17) A man came to the Prophet and said: “O Messenger of God, teach me something of the Quran that will suffice me, for I cannot read.” He said, “Say: Subhaan-Allaah wa’l-hamdu Lillaah wa laa ilaaha ill-Allaah wa Allaahu akbar wa laa hawla wa la quwwata illa Billaah (Far removed is God from every imperfection, praise be to God, there is no god except Allah and God is Most great, there is no god except Allah and there is no power or strength except with God).”[1] Entering the fold of Islam is easy. It is a simple process, free of complications. In part 2 we will discuss circumcision, the fact that Islam has no ethnic or race restrictions and becoming Muslim without knowing very much about Islam. Footnotes: [1] Abu Dawood, An Nasai. 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Hair Falling - Cause, Symptoms, Home Treatment and Remedy of Hair Falling - Vitamins and Hair Fall Falling of hair is natural and is common to everyone. Hair tend to fall after gaining full length and new ones grow. But excessive hair-loss is a real problem. It is natural for hair to stop growing after a certain period. Depending on the conditions of an individual, the lower part of, the hair gland gets withers or dries up, the old strand of hair is severed from the pore. This process of severance from the pores is known as falling of hair but the fallen hair is replaced by the growth of new hair. Usually the hair grow by one centimeter in a month. The falling of upto 100 hair in a day is considered normal because the, head can grow this much of hair again. Usually, there is a cycle according to which every strand of hair falls within 3-4 years and new growth takes place. Physicians, generally prescribe iron capsules and vitamin tablets to check the falling of hair but it does not seem to be necessary. One should consult a physician only if the hair-loss is more than 100 per day. The main causes for the falling of hair are anemia, disease affected roots of the hair, the diseases caused, by heat in the body, dandruff, lack of nutrition or too much exposure of the hair to the Sun. Vitamins for hair loss is due to the fact that body does not get enough of some of the nutrients. Taking vitamins for hair fall is just simple step we can take. Vitamins Needed by Hairs? Vitamins generally are good for all your vital body orgain in one or the other forms. Here we have tried to list down the vitamins that are essential for the Hair and hair falling: Vitamin A Vitamin C Vitamin E Bioton - helps prevent hair from premature graying Inositol - It can help in preventing hair loss and hair fall Vitamin B3 - promotes blood circulation and thus creates better scalp cells Vitamin B5 - may stop hair loss and help to regrow hair. Vitamin B6 - it has role in healthy hair growth Vitamin B12 - it has role in healthy hair growth Natural Home remedies for the treatment of Hair Falling Oil : Application of oil is necessary for the health and beauty of the hair. These days most people prefer dry hair. But the roots of dry hair become weak and it leads to hair-loss. Besides application of oil, it also necessary to brush the hair briskly for some time to give it exercise. Brushing also improves blood circulation in the scalp and makes the hair roots strong and prevents hair-loss. First of all, massage your scalp softly with a good oil like coconut oil or almond oil. Rub the oil into the hair gently with the pores of your fingers. Avoid scented oils as far as possible because they make the hair weak and cause premature graying. Vitamins Good for Hair - Natural Vitamins for Hair Growth Deficiency of B vitamins is one of the major cause of hair loss. The body needs plenty of vitamins for good health including the health of hair. Nutrition/Vitamins for hair loss There are certain vitamins and minerals which must be here in adequate quantity or else there will be defective hair growth. The poor eating habits of the current times has been affecting our general health and energy levels. This has a consequence in terms of weaker hair and fingernails. Coenzyme Q10 - This improves scalp circulation and raises the tissue oxygenation levels. It is also important for heart health. L-Cysteine and L-methionine - These amino acids improve hair quality, hair texture and hair growth which can further contain hair falling. Homemade recipes for hair falling Simple home remedy for hair falling using Steam : It prevents hair-loss. Take some hot water in a pan, dip a towel in it, squeeze it lightly and wrap it around the head. When it gets cold, use another towel in the similar way. In this manner, steam your hair for ten minutes. Apply oil into the hair a day before steaming. Steaming keeps the hair soft like silk and healthy. Good home remedy for hair falling using Beet root : Grind beet root leaves along with henna into a paste and apply on the hair. It checks hair-loss, facilitates hair growth and new hair also grow. Effective home remedy for hair falling using Amla : Soak dry amla overnight in water. Next morning wash your hair with it. It will strengthen the hair roots and enhance their natural beauty. It is also beneficial for the brain and eyes. How to get rid of hair falling - Getting rid of hair falling Natural home remedy for hair falling using Long cucumber : The juice of long cucumber facilitates thick growth of hair. It contains silicon and sulphur in plenty. Taking mixed juice of cucumber, carrot and spinach also helps in the growth of hair. If anyone of these foods is not available, you may take the juice of the items readily available during the season; This will facilitates thick growth of hair. Diet tips for hair falling Cabbage: Eating 50 gms. of cabbage leaves daily helps in the growth of new hair. Coconut: Application of coconut oil checks hair-loss and facilitates hair growth. Wheat: Taking the juice of wheat grass daily for forty days checks hair-loss. Precautions for hair falling Washing: In case of excessive hair-loss frequent washing of the head is recommended. Do not comb the wet hair because the wet hair are weak and fragile and can break easily. Allow the hair to dry for some time before combing. Do not use a hair dryer daily for drying the hair because it weakens the hair roots. When using a hair dryer, keep it at a distance of 6-8 inches away from the hair. Do not leave the hair spray in the hair for long because it contains severe harmful chemicals which can cause damage to the hair. Jamiat

This is one of the best explanations of why Allah allows pain and suffering that I have seen: A man went to a Barbershop to have his hair cut and his beard trimmed. As the barber began to work, they began to have a good conversation. They talked about so many things and various subjects when they eventually touched on the subject of Allah The Barber said: I don’t believe that Allah Exists. Why do you say that? Asked the customer. Well, you just have to go out in the street & realize that Allah doesn’t exist. Tell me if Allah Exists, would there be so many sick people? Would there be abandoned Children? If Allah existed, there would be neither suffering nor pain. I can’t imagine a loving Allah who would allow all of these things The customer thought for a moment, but didn’t respond because he didn’t want to start an argument. The Barber finished his job and the customer left the shop. Just after he left the barbershop, he saw a man in the street with long, stringy, dirty hair and untrimmed beard, he looked dirty and unkempt. The customer turned back and entered the barbershop again and said to the barber: You know what? Barbers do not exist. How can you say that? Asked the surprised Barber. I am here, and I am a Barber, & I just worked on you! No! The customer exclaimed. “Barbers don’t exist because if they did, there would be no people with dirty long hair and untrimmed beard, like that man outside. Ah, But Barbers do exist! That’s what happens when people do not come to me.” Exactly, affirmed the customer. “That’s the Point! Allah, too, exists! That’s what happens when people do not go to HIM and don’t look to HIM for Help. That’s why there’s so much pain and suffering in the World”.

Qunoot - e - Naazilah Du'aa for protection against Natural Disaster, Plague and War. When the Muslims Community is afflicted with some hardship then Qunoot-E-Naazilah should be recited in the Fajr Salaat. The Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him) encouraged the Ummah to read Qunoot-e-Naazilah supplication (dua) at the time of distress and calamity. (Hadith- Abu Dawood). Method: After the Rukoo of the second raka'at, while standing in the position known as Qaumah, the Qunoot should be read in a voice lower in tone than when reciting the Qiraa'at. The Muqtadees should place their hands at the side and say Aameen at the proper juncture. Note: Women may also recite this du'aa softly. One may recite it as often as possible as a du'aa. (Click to enlarge) Translation : O, Allah, guide us aright along with those who have been rightly guided and grant us safety along with those that have been granted safety and support us along with those that have been supported and add Your Blessings to what You have given us and save us from the harmful effects of what You have ordained ( i.e. lest I should be wanting in cheerfully submitting to your Decrees) as You alone disposes and no one can dispose against You. Anyone who is under Your Protection cannot be lowered and anyone who is opposed by You cannot gain dignity; our Lord; You are full of blessings and Most High, we beg forgiveness from You and repent before You and may the blessings of Allah be showered on the Holy Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wasallam). O Allah, forgive us and the believing men and women and Muslim men and women, unite their hearts with mutual love, set right their mutual affairs and help them against theirs and Your enemy. O Allah, let Your curse be on those unbelievers who prevent people from treading Your path, who reject Your prophets and fight Your chosen ones. O Allah, make difficult their plans, shake their feet and give them such punishment which is not turned away from a sinning people. Aameen EISLAM

Envy...Some ways to Cure it! Envy refers to the desire that a person feels for the destruction or removal of a blessing that another person has – a destruction which the bearer of this feeling would himself carry out if he had the power to. This is quite different to wanting such blessings for oneself while not wishing for them to be removed from others, for that is, indeed, a positive and commendable desire. Envy is an evil disease of the heart and the cancer of the soul. If unchecked it leads to animosity, bad behaviour, thinking evil of others, backbiting, tale-bearing and dishonesty. It is considered to be among the most dangerous and destructive of internal diseases and is the most destructive to a person's religion and worldly life. Abu Huraryah (ra) narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "When one of you sees someone who has been blessed more than him in money or appearance, then let him look at someone lesser than him, whom he has been preferred over." (Bukhari) What is Envy? Envy is a puzzling and complex emotion. In Christianity, it is known as one of the "Seven Deadly Sins". In Islam, there is hasad (destructive jealousy) where the envier wishes evil for others and to be happy when misfortune befalls them. Ghibtah, however, is envy that is free from malice, meaning the envier neither wants the loss of the blessing nor hating for it to remain with the person, but desiring the same for oneself without the removal of the blessing from others. Envy is not a respected emotion in religion, philosophy, or psychology, yet many of us are suffering from it more and more in a world that forces us to compare ourselves to others. On Social Media Networks we are forced to look into the lives of others and wonder if our life compares as well. In magazines and talk shows, we are forced to look into the lives of celebrities, which leaves us wondering about our own lives. Are we thin enough, pretty enough, successful enough, etc? Even if we try and protect our home environment from being invaded by such images, we are bombarded with them each time we go to the grocery store and see magazine covers promoting the lifestyles of the rich and famous; drive through the town or freeways and see billboards with images promoting plastic surgery; or listen to the radio and hear advertisements for various products that will make us prettier, richer and thinner. Young children as a result are starting to worry about their weight and appearance at ages as young as 4-5 years old. This is worrisome to say the least. "If you compare yourself with others, you may become vain and bitter; for always there will be greater and lesser persons than yourself". How Envy Can Destroy Our Lives "Envy is a propensity to view the well-being of others with distress, even though it does not detract from one's own. [it is] a reluctance to see our own well being overshadowed by another's because the standard we use to see how well off we are is not the intrinsic worth of our own well being but how it compares with that of others. [Envy] aims, at least in terms of one's wishes, at destroying others' good fortune". Envy and jealousy are often used interchangeably but they are separate and distinct emotions. Envy is centrally focused on the competition with another. You can channel the desire for competition into something more productive rather than destructive. 10 Easy Steps to Overcome Envy 1. Stop the comparisons! If you find yourself stalking your friends on Social Media Networks or comparing yourself to celebrities, catch yourself and STOP IT! Come up with an affirmation to soothe yourself such as "I feel blessed with all that I have been given." Giving thanks to Allah for all that has been bestowed upon you takes your focus on what you don't have and brings it back to all that you do have. Make gratitude a regular part of your day. For 30 days, write down three different things you are grateful for at the end of each day. Volunteering at a homeless shelter for one day is also a great way to recognize your blessings. 2. Increase your knowledge. Many of us envy others, without having full knowledge of their lives. "Never criticize a man until you've walked a mile in his moccasins." – When we compare our lives to others, we don't take into consideration the whole picture. Many celebrities fear aging and gaining weight so much, they deprive themselves of nourishing sustenance in order to maintain relevant and remain in the public eye. If we knew all this about our favorite envied individual, would we still want to have that life? Would it not make our life seem more stable by comparison? 3. Recognize and embrace your own individuality. We need to learn to appreciate our differences, within ourselves and with others. We may envy the lives of others but if it were given to us, we may actually wish for our own life back! Embrace what makes you unique and what's different about you. What you consider a flaw in you might actually be what makes you unique and special. "It is much more difficult to judge oneself than to judge others. If you succeed in judging yourself rightly, than you are indeed a man of true wisdom." 4. Recognize that the success of others DOES NOT take way from your own! Be happy for the success and happiness of others and remind yourself it does not take anything away from you. You create your own path and you are responsible for your successes and failures. There is more than enough to go around. You do not need to trample over others to get what you deserve. 5. Learn from the envied: "Don't hate, appreciate and emulate!" Learn from those you envy. You do not need to have all that they have but maybe you can learn from them. If you envy a friend for their success or happiness, you can ask them their "secret." This can deepen your friendship rather than drive the wedge of resentment and envy further. Are they eating healthy and exercising? You can emulate some of the positive traits and apply them to your life. Do they look young because they take care of their skin? You can learn from their techniques. 6. Find out what you can do better, how you can be better! Envy is a non-productive and energy zapping emotion. You can instead channel your energy towards making yourself better. Do you envy how creative or talented your friend is? Explore your own creativity or talents by taking classes and experimenting with various projects. Is your friend adventurous and you wished you traveled more? Start saving up for that trip you've been wanting to take. Rather than stand by and hope great things will happen to you, make things happen. "Thought is the sculptor who can create the person you want to be." 7. Work within your limitations. Understand what is possible and accept what isn't. If you've always wanted to jump out of a plane but are terrified of heights, how can you achieve the sensation without having to actually jump out of a plane? Would riding a scary roller coaster be sufficient? Would taking a helicopter ride be equivalent? Work within your limitations and use them to bust through the mental barriers you have set up for yourself. You don't have to have everything in place to make your dreams a reality. Set your intentions and you'll be amazed how things fall into place after that. It might take years but once it happens, you'll realize it happened at just the right time! 8. Keep your focus on your goals. You must first have goals in order to stay focused on them. Your goals don't have to be major accomplishments. Keep the focus of your goals on increasing your happiness and making you a better person rather than impressing others. Do things because you want to feel good not because you feel bad about your life. 9. Be happy for the envied and genuinely mean it. Being happy for others makes you feel happier inside. Envy takes our focus away from the connection we all have to each other. We envy others because we don't feel good about our own lives. Instead of allowing envy to erode your self-esteem, boost your self-esteem by remembering what makes you special. Focusing on your positives will make you notice the positives in others. "The supplication of a Muslim for his brother in his absence will certainly be answered. Everytime he makes a supplication for good for his brother, the angel appointed for this particular task says: `Ameen! May it be for you, too'." (Muslim). 10. Be the best that you can be. Focus on an area of your life that needs improving, whether it's to become a better person, gossip less, give more, take more time for yourself, get a makeover, get a massage, or learn a new skill. When you feel good about yourself, it's easier to be good to those around you. Confidence and self-esteem are at the core of success and happiness. Work on improving and increasing your self-esteem and self-confidence. The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said: "The deeds of anyone of you will not save you from the Fire." They said, "Even you, [will not be saved by your deeds] O Allah's Apostle?" He said, "No, even I [will not be saved] unless and until Allah bestows His Mercy on me. Therefore, do good deeds properly, sincerely and moderately, and worship Allah in the forenoon and in the afternoon and during a part of the night, and always adopt a middle, moderate, regular course whereby you will reach your target." (Bukhari) EISLAM

Allah, The Most Exalted, says: “Do they envy others for the bounty that Allah has bestowed upon them?". Qur'an-(4:54) The Noble Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) is reported to have said: “Do not envy one another; do not hate one another; do not turn your back on one another (in discontent); (but) be servants of Allah as brothers." (Hadith Bukhari & Muslim) Note: Envy refers to the desire that a person feels for the destruction or removal of a blessing that another person has – a destruction which the bearer of this feeling would himself carry out if he had the power to. This is quite different to wanting such blessings for oneself while not wishing for them to be removed from others, for that is, indeed, a positive and commendable desire. Envy is an evil disease of the heart and the cancer of the soul. If unchecked it leads to animosity, bad behaviour, thinking evil of others, backbiting, tale-bearing and dishonesty. It is considered to be among the most dangerous and destructive of internal diseases and is the most destructive to a person's religion and worldly life.

THE EVILS OF GAMBLING INTRODUCTION Gambling has unfortunately become an acceptable practise in Muslim Society due to its wide scale promotion by the media. A large number of good Muslims are also caught in the web, not realising that they are gambling and that the earnings from the gambling are haraam. The following is a translation of a scholarly article by the late Mufti Muhammad Shafi rahmatullahi alaihe which is being published to make Muslims aware of the different forms of transactions and other items which are classified in Shar'iah as gambling. THE DEFINITION OF GAMBLING Every transaction in which gain and loss is obscure is known as Qimaar' and 'Maisar' in the Shar'iah terminology, and as 'Juwa' in the Urdu language. For instance, if two people compete in a race with the following conditions, that if you surpass me, then I will give you a thousand pounds and if I surpass you then you will have to give me a thousand pounds. Or if someone says, 'If it rains today you will have to give me a thousand pounds and if it does not rain then I will give you a thousand pounds.' Likewise if some packed boxes are being sold for a fixed price, for example four pounds per box and some of the boxes have contents with a value of five pounds with others containing a value of two pounds, then the purchase of these boxes will be Qimaar. Because of the obscurity of the gain and loss. There are numerous methods of gambling and in every age and region, gambling has been played in different forms and methods. There was a certain procedure amongst the Arabs for gambling. There would be ten arrows, each with a special name, all having different shares allocated to them, for example, one share, two shares, three shares, etc. There would also be some without a share at all. They would then jumble the arrows and ask someone to pick an arrow for each person. Whichever arrow was picked out for a person, that would be his allocated share and thereafter would be considered the owner of it. On the other hand, whosoever happened to acquire a share-less arrow he would receive nothing at all. The custom, which went hand in hand with this, was that a camel would be slaughtered and distributed according to the shares entitled to them by the arrows. A person who was unlucky would not only be deprived of the camel meat but he would also have to pay for that camel. This kind of gambling has been labelled Maisar and Azlaam by the Qur'aan. Maisar is that particular camel which is slaughtered and distributed because of gambling and Azlaam are the arrows that are used to define the amount of the shares in gambling. Apart from this, gambling was prevalent in trade in different forms. They were known as Mulamasa and Munabaza, etc., the prohibition of which is present in the Ahaadith of the Prophet sallallahu alaihe wasallam. Before the advent of Islam, gambling was not only customary but also taken to be a cause of pride, nobility and honour. For excessive show of pride, these people would distribute their share of the winnings amongst the poor. (Tafseer-ul-Kabeer Lir-Razi vol 2 p231) THE PROHIBITION OF GAMBLING As Islam plays a moderate role in worship, similarly it plays a role in economics and social orders. How can Islam, the moderate way of life, cope with a state where one can take possession of somebody else's property without any valid reason, due to which, the latter gets poorer and his state diminishes and the former, without working, gathers the wealth equivalent to that of Qaroon (Korah, a kaafir whom Allah bestowed with great wealth at the time of Musa alaihis salaam)? Alternatively, without any religious excuse, a great amount of wealth is taken from the poor people's pocket and a single person is made to own it. Therefore, it was vital for Islam to prohibit these unfair ways of taking possessions. For this reason the open mindedness of the all-encompassing religion, Islam, took consideration and concern of the human passions. When alcoholic drinks and gambling were intended to be banned, their prohibition was not revealed immediately, but firstly all the disadvantages concerning them were made clear. Once these were totally engraved into their hearts, then the laws of prohibition were revealed. In the early days of Islam the Prophet sallallahu alaihe wasallam was questioned regarding the permissibility of gambling and alcohol. The first verse that was revealed regarding this, is in Surah Baqarah which is as follows: "They ask thee concerning wine and gambling. Say, 'In them is great sin and some benefit for men; but the sin is greater than the benefit." (Qur'aan 2:19) In the above aayah, the permissibility and non-permissibility of wine and gambling is not clarified. Soon after understanding the tone of discountenance in the verse, the highly ranked companions of the Holy Prophet sallallahu alaihe wasallam abstained from them. On the other hand, Muslims in general were still involved in them and the Prophet sallallahu alaihe wasallam had not said anything that indicated their prohibition, until Allah revealed the following verse: "O believers! Intoxicants and gambling, worshipping stones and divination by arrows are impure, of shaytan's handiwork: refrain from such abomination that ye may prosper. " (Qur'aan 5:90) In this verse, the total prohibition of alcoholic drinks and gambling has been clearly revealed. Its prohibition has been mentioned with such assurance that Imaam Razi rahmatullahi alaihe states as follows: "Firstly, the Arabic word 'innama' has been placed in the beginning of the verse. In Arabic, this creates emphasis on what is mentioned afterwards. Secondly, these prohibited things have been classified as being 'rijs' (impure), from which natural disposition abstains. Thirdly, they have been branded as satanic acts. Fourthly, their severity has been categorised in the same level as idol worshipping (shirk) in the sense that they all are links of a single chain." After mentioning that these all are 'rijs' (impure), Allah Ta'ala orders: "Keep away from them." Allah Ta'ala does not terminate the subject here, but He carries on mentioning their religious and worldly harm in the following aayah. Allah, the Almighty states conclusively that shaytaan wants to ruin our worldly life and the life of the Hereafter. These forbidden things, (alcohol and gambling), lay the seeds of hatred and hostility between human beings. These evil outcomes are innumerable. Their habit distracts a man from obligatory duties such as salaah and the remembrance of Allah. May Allah protect all the Muslims from their evil. THE NOBLE SAHAABAH'S SPIRIT OF OBEDIENCE AFTER THE ORDER OF PROHIBITION Generally, habits and old customs that become part of a person's temperament are almost second to human nature. This was a time of great trial when, up to now, these sinful acts were part of their life and nobility, but today, they became expressly prohibited. This period is of a great importance for the Muslim Ummah in Islamic history. It is amazing that, on one hand, there was the concern of human feelings and habits in the Shari'ah, and on the other hand, there was a great desire in the Ummah to obey the revealed commandments. After the revelation of the above mentioned verse, Rasoolullah sallallahu alaihe wasallam sent out a caller to proclaim: "Behold, alcoholic drinks (intoxicants) have been made haraam." It was the cry of the caller or perhaps a lightning which immediately changed their habits and feelings. Intoxicants were very popular among the Arabs. They were manufactured and imbedded almost in every home and to drink had, so to speak, become a mark of advancement in culture. As soon as the announcement was made, the people who were greatly addicted to it and who regarded it a virtue and sign of social and cultural eminence and who would spend lavishly in the state of drunkenness from which the poor and needy profited. These very same people now in a short span of time were ready to forsake and sever any ties they may have had in regards to alcohol which had, for years played a major role in their lives. Those who held goblets in their hands immediately threw them on the ground. Many others who were in the act of drinking, spat the contents out. Sounds of pitchers and jars being smashed up were soon audible from neighbouring houses. Wine was running to such an extent that the streets of Madinah were overflowing. Hazrat Anas radiyallahu anhu, an eminent companion of the Prophet sallallahu alaihe wasallam narrates that some friends including Abu Ubayda ibn Jarrah, Abu Dujahna, Mu'az ibn Jabal and Sahl ibn Bayzah radiyallahu anhum had gathered at the house of Abu Talha. Alcohol was flowing and I was acting as the cup-bearer when suddenly the cry of the announcer reached our ears. None of us considered it necessary to go out and investigate the matter. Instead, the containers and jars were smashed to the ground and the wine thrown onto the streets of Madinah. After performing wudhu and ghusl we proceeded towards the Masjid where upon our arrival we found the blessed Prophet sallallahu alaihe wasallam reciting the aforesaid verse. Hazrat Buraidah radiyallahu anhu also narrates a similar account wherein a group of Sahaabah were busy consuming liquor when the announcement was made. The words no sooner reached their ears that the cups were thrown to the ground. Others who were about to swallow the alcohol immediately spat it out, numerous barrels were also destroyed in the process. (Ibn Kathir vol2 p95) This is not the occasion for a lengthy discussion regarding the prohibition of alcohol, nonetheless, due to the fact that the prohibition was revealed at the same time to that of gambling, it was necessary to give an example of the Sahaabah's habitual obedience, courage and passion. From these incidents it can be imagined just how difficult the situation had become for the Sahaabah. Likewise it can be conceived as to how much hardship they must have endured when the prohibition of gambling was also revealed. Therefore, history itself is a witness that after the revelation of the aayah, the Companions refrained from associating with anything that was even minutely related to gambling. In an authentic hadith of Bukhari the Prophet sallallahu alaihe wasallam is reported to have said, "If one person says to another, 'Come lets gamble.' (regardless of whether he acts upon it or not) then he shall be liable of committing a sin; and the compensation for that sin will be to give Sadaqah." It is a disgrace that today's Muslims, despite the fact that severe and grave warnings have been given in the Qur'aan and Ahaadith relating to gambling and alcohol, lead a life of complete ignorance and unconcern. It seems that they no longer have faith in the Qur'aan and Ahaadith, Allah save us! It is not only the illiterate who are involved, but the sad fact is that those who hold lofty positions in society and who are regarded as religious, because they perform their fasts and salaah, have also fallen prey to its evil clutches. Hence for the benefit of those who are unaware or not acquainted, a few forms of gambling are being mentioned that are currently prevalent. CROSSWORD PUZZLES Nowadays, just like the epidemic of plague, the art of gambling too has now become so common that it has become virtually a means of trade and commerce. Under such headlines as "Solve this Puzzle", or "Win this Lottery" of innumerable newspapers and monthly journals that are on an ever-increase. They offer prizes for solving puzzles subject to the submitting of a fee. The participants are lured into false belief that they can win substantial sums of money. Some organisers fix huge prizes for the winners due to which the poor public think that the fees is only a small amount and will not bring no harm and therefore enter trying to win a substantial amount. Because people have fallen prey to this disease, thousands of individuals are entering the lottery. It is crystal clear that when a person enters into playing this game he submits his fee on the understanding that he either loses a small amount or wins a fortune; according to the divine law of Islam this act is classified as 'gambling'. In some monthly magazines this form of gambling has expanded very widely and the income runs into millions from which the businesspersons gain overall benefit. Even if the company tries not to indulge in any form of cheating, and distributes the prize money justly, a substantial amount of money is left over which is the blood and sweat of the poor people. The outcome of all this, is that it is the public who ends up in poverty whilst the organisers benefit from the expenses of the poor. In confirmation of the prohibition of gambling, the above mentioned evidence is sufficient; the democratic rules and curriculum of lslam and its fundamental principles forebears the public money to go in the possession of few individuals. Gambling in the form of crosswords which are prevalent today, are to be reprimanded furthermore severely since they are an aggregation of vices and sins. The sole reason for this is that the public is being urged and exhorted to go against the commandments of Allah Ta'ala and His disobedience and the Holy Prophet sallallahu alaihe wasallam'. Each and every person that takes part in this vice is disobeying the commandments which are stated by Allah Ta'ala very clearly in the Holy Qur'aan. The participator becomes a doer of major sins, most of which falls upon the organisers. The people who help them in any form also become guilty of this particular major vice. Likewise, thousands and millions of Muslim brethren openly go against the clear order of Allah Ta'ala and his Holy Prophet sallallahu alaihe wasallam. In addition, thousands and millions of Muslims become involved in this act of gambling with the result that it becomes an unending and everlasting vice. May Allah Ta'ala bestow the entire mankind with salvation and freedom from this disease, Aameen. THE PRIZE WINNING TICKETS OF (CAR) SHOWS AND EXHIBITIONS It has been observed throughout the years in Karachi, Lahore and many other places that various types of tickets are being sold to enter exhibitions. The organisers issue tickets with lucky numbers and then prizes are allocated to the lucky persons whose numbers appear. This form is not regarded as open gambling because the ticket owner receives the returns by entering the exhibition but now it is all depending on the intention. The person who purchases this ticket on the basis of winning a prize will be indulging in gambling. On the other hand if his intention is solely to enter the exhibition with no desire of winning a prize, and wins the prize then it will not be classified as gambling according to the rules pertaining to gambling. HORSE RACING The present day horse racing where one stakes a certain amount on a particular horse is in fact gambling. It is exactly that form where loss and gain is based on something indistinct, where one person loses his initial amount and the other wins a substantial amount. LOTTERY In this present day each and every kind of lottery is included within gambling and is prohibited. It is found in bazaars and factories and out of which, a few well-known forms are mentioned. The lottery business of this category has now reached an international level. The purchaser of this ticket does not buy the ticket solely with the intention of just buying it but he buys it on the basis of it being a possible winning dice by which he can win the amount of money he has aimed for. That is the reason why this is not merely trade or business venture but rather it is an act of sin to buy these or even to sell them. Because he is not merely committing a sin and transgressing but is also promoting it. Islam gives peace to the mind, body and soul, keeping the human in perfect harmony. Every iota balanced and scaled to perfection. A serene picture of bliss and joy but when a shattering and destructive vice strikes through the heart it leaves it in a weak and downtrodden state. The National Lottery, a new religion, has hit Britain. A moneymaking, exciting, nail-biting game of chance, preying on the human soul and wealth. This modern lottery system of gambling came from the crusades. The crusaders during a siege of the Islamic citadel of Azhar were forced to pass their time by developing new pass-times. One of those was called hazard and today this is the usual French word used for games of chance. Hazard developed into a state enterprise and since then it has been upgraded and reformed constantly, without any feeling of guilt. Now it has, ultimately, hit Britain with a vengeance. It seems it is here to stay for a long time to come. The saddening thing however is that from the constant onslaught of the Modernity on Islam, the National Lottery will contribute a great deal towards their ultimate goal, the total assimilation of the Muslims into the British society. Coming towards the main aspect of our argument that in no manner can it be justified that it is permissible to play the lottery or to take part in any form of gambling whatsoever will follow. Gambling developed and turned into a money-maker, all in the name of charity. The Qur'aan has commanded the prohibition and total ban of any form of gambling and in no way whatsoever can it be proven permissible. Thus, any person who denies the prohibition of any form of gambling such as lottery etc. will be committing an act of kufr. Gambling is prohibited with absolute proof as the Allah Almighty says in the Holy Qur'aan, "O you who believe! Intoxicants (all kinds ofalcoholic drinks), gambling, Al-Ansab, and Al-Azlam (arrows for seeking luck or decision) are an abomination ofsatan, handiwork. So avoid (strictly all) that (abomination) in order that you may be successful." (Qur'aan 5:90) When the Sahaabahs received the order to refrain from gambling they did not hesitate to fulfil. This is because the Holy Prophet sallallahu alaihe wasallam had said, "Whosoever invites a person towards gambling should give some amount of charity to the poor." (Bukhari) Due to inviting a person towards gambling, he has committed a minor sin and created zulmat (darkness) in his heart, thus it is necessary to cleanse it and replace it with the noor (light) of Imaan by giving charity. The indication is that even uttering the word gambling is very dire and leads to bad consequences. There are sound and noble objectives behind this strict prohibition of gambling. 1. Islamic teachings urge the Muslims to follow Allah's directives, for earning a living, which is direct means for the attainment of His objectives. On the other hand gambling, which involves raffling or the lottery makes a person dependant on chance, luck and empty wishes taking him away from honest labour, serious work and productive effort. The gambler loses respect for the laws of caution that Allah has established for the people. 2. In Islam an individual's property is sacred; it may not be taken unless given willingly or by lawful exchange. The Prophet sallallahu alaihe wasallam has said, "A person's wealth is not halal but with his good pleasure. " (Baihaqi, Dar-e-Qutni) What happens in lotteries is that people's wealth is gathered and then one of them takes the lot (e.g. £18 million in the recent lottery draw). The money given to a certain person is not from the lottery organisers in fact it is from individuals' pocket. If you were asked to present your money to the winning person, would you willingly do so? I am sure you would reply no. This is one of the reasons for prohibiting gambling. 3. Gamblers develop hatred and enmity towards one another, although they may claim that losing does not trouble them. However, I would seriously question this, a loser may seem composed but behind his composure is frustration, due to disappointment, anger at the loss of money and regret for not winning the game. The Holy Prophet sallallahu alaihe wasallam has said, "Do not harbour envy or ill-will; and neither spy nor be inquisitive for other persons 'faults nor make bogus offers of prices to spoil a bargain, and O Allah's servants! Be brethren to each other." (Bukhari) 4. Gambling has its own compulsion. The loser plays in the hope of winning and to regain his earlier losses, while the winner plays again to enjoy the pleasure of winning and the greed for more. Naturally, luck changes hands, the loser becomes the winner and the winner the loser. Thus, the gambling addiction is such that gamblers are unable to leave it. 5. The person engaged in gambling does not stop at a point. Satan the accursed, who is our grave enemy, conquers the mind to such an extent that the gambler does not realise as to how much he has spent. If he were to sit down and think of the amount he has lost, he would then surely understand the situation. We read in the papers that a charity firm who greatly in need of cash for renovating their premises gathered a few thousand pounds and were quiet happy to take the chance and gamble it in the lottery. Had this amount been rightly used, it would have at least given some benefit. 6. Because of this addiction, gambling takes a person away from the remembrance of Allah resulting in negligence of his duties towards his Creator. How correct is the Holy Qur'aan in mentioning drinking and gambling together in its verse, since their harmful effects are so similar. That is why usually one is not found without the other. To sum up on the filth of gambling, the saying of Almighty Allah is enough for a fearing Muslim:- "O' you who believe! Intoxicants (all kinds of alcoholic drinks), gambling, Al-A nsab, and Al-Azlam (arrows for seeking luck or decision) are an abomination of Satan's handiwork So avoid (strictly all) that (abomination) in order that you may be successful. Satan wants only to excite enmity and hatred between you with intoxicants (alcoholic drinks) and gambling, and hinder you from the remembrance of Allah and from prayers. So will you not then abstain? And obey Allah and the Messenger, and beware (of even coming near to drinking, or gambling, or Al-Ansab, or Al-Azlam, etc.) and be afraid of Allah. Then if you turn away, you should know that it is Our Messenger's duty to convey (the Message) in the clearest way. The non-permissibility will encompass everyone taking any part, whether it be selling, buying, playing or keeping a vending machine. Muslims should refrain from it as much as possible. Because gambling is a process in which a small sum of money is deposited with the greed of possibly attaining a much greater sum, it is very much appealing to the heart and soul, hence it becomes very hard to even want to believe that it is haraam. May Almighty Allah give us all the ability to act upon His commandments and abstain from His prohibitions, Aameen. inter-islam Back to table of contents

Today we are featuring a most beautiful durood taken from the Dalail ul Khairat Thursday chapter: lovedurood.com (Click on picture to enlarge)

Fear of Accountability and the Gifts of Allah Ta’ala If we study the contents of the first few surahs that were revealed, we will find that the theme in these surahs revolves around Qiyaamah, Jannah and Jahannum. It is obvious that if the commands and prohibitions had to come from the very beginning then it would have been extremely difficult for the new Muslims. But when topics of Qiyaamah etc. were discussed initially then it created the belief of accountability. Hence, when the fear of the hereafter was developed then the commands and prohibitions were no longer difficult. In proportion to the fear within one’s heart will one be able to move in the correct direction. Therefore, these topics have to be discussed on an on-going basis. Among the initial surahs was Surah Najm. Allah Ta‘ala commences with: “By the oath of the star when it sets.” Thereafter, mention is made of Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam). The link between the both is that just as a star is a source of guidance when travelling, likewise Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) is a source of guidance for mankind. Further, Allah Ta‘ala speaks of the star when setting and not about when it rises. The reason for this is that when it is about to set and the sailor realises this he makes the most effort at that time to navigate his course. Otherwise, generally at the time when it rises, he is not much concerned because he feels that he still has plenty of time. Likewise, Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) is not to remain forever. He has a short time in this world. Hence, maximum benefit should be derived from Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam). For those after Nabi (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), this will apply in that Allah Ta‘ala dispenses His gifts of hidaayat (guidance). Thus, when one comes across such opportunities, he should not let them go by for he does not know when such an opportunity will come back again. At times, Allah Ta‘ala enables a person to realise his wrong and allows his conscience to feel the guilt of his wrong. This is also a gift from Allah Ta‘ala to enable one to repent and make taubah. If one does not take advantage of this then he will become immune and addicted to the sin. Source: Al-Haadi

Words of advice by Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat (Hafizahullah) As the UK braces itself for stormy weather and potential flooding in different regions, many will be keeping a watchful eye on the weather forecasts and many will be listening attentively to the radio broadcasts. As Muslims, our focus should always be towards the life and practices of our beloved Rasool Muhammad sallallahu alayhi wasallam & his noble Sahaabah radiallahu anhum. Before anything we should be re-affirming our belief that Allāh ta‘ālā is the Hāākim (The Supreme Ruler) and the Hakīīm (The Most Wise). This means that whatever happens, whether good or bad in appearance, is according to the Wish of Allāh ta‘ālā. He has Power over everything. Every single particle in the whole universe is under His Control. ***What Should We Do At Times Like This?*** Every person, during such times should turn towards Allāh ta‘ālā with humbleness, faith and genuine repentance. According to the Sharī‘ah, common and open disobedience of Allāh ta‘ālā is one of the many reasons for the cause of calamities like earthquakes. When the land is overloaded with the disobedience of Allāh ta‘ālā, earthquakes from beneath and violent storms from above are commonplace. There are various scientific explanations as to why natural disasters occur, however the underlying facts point towards ‘how’ they happen and not ‘why’ they happen. The answer to ‘why’ and ‘when’ and even to ‘how’, in reality, remains with Allāh ta‘ālā. An answer to ‘why’ has been revealed in the Qur’ān: (Corruption and) Mischief has appeared on land and sea because of what the hands of men have earned, that He (Allāh) may give them a taste of some of their deeds in order that they may turn back (from evil). (30:41) Incidents like these are, as it were, ‘wakeup’ alarm calls from Allāh ta‘ālā. Allāh ta‘ālā in His Infinite Mercy is jolting us through such incidents, so that we may mend our ways and reflect on our transgressions and as a result rectify ourselves before it is too late. Allāh ta‘ālā has revealed to his beloved Prophet sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam, that as long as this Ummah continues to repent for their wrong-doings, He will not punish them through calamities. Incidents like these should not be viewed with some momentary sympathy or investigated out of curiosity, but treated strictly as a reminder to wake up and reflect on our lives of disobedience. The way Allāh has the Power to cause calamities in any part of the world, He also has the Power to cause a catastrophe here, in this very city, in the very vicinity of our homes. Hence it is absolutely essential for Muslims, not just from the affected regions, but from all over the world, to turn towards Allāh ta‘ālā. They must direct all their attention towards Him and reflect on their lives to find out where the Commands of Allāh ta‘ālā are being violated, then sincerely repent and resolve to adorn their future lives with taqwā, abstain from the disobedience of Allāh ta‘ālā, and observe His Commands.

Aaishah (ra) reports, "New-born children used to be brought to the Messenger of Allah and he would supplicate for blessings for them, and rub a chewed date upon their palate." (Muslim) Over 1400 years later - the BBC News has reported that "experts" have said - "A dose of sugar given as a gel rubbed into the inside of the cheek is a cheap and effective way to protect premature babies against brain damage" This is why we as Muslims follow the sunnah of the messenger without questioning it. It is revelation from Allah. Everything that the messenger (salAllahu alayhi wa sallam) did is the best. So don't wait until science catches up, because Islam is the forefront of development. The things we do according to the sunnah (such as fasting Mondays and Thursdays) are only just being recognised as "scientific breakthroughs" BBC 'Sugar gel' helps premature babies A dose of sugar given as a gel rubbed into the inside of the cheek is a cheap and effective way to protect premature babies against brain damage, say experts. Dangerously low blood sugar affects about one in 10 babies born too early. Untreated, it can cause permanent harm. Researchers from New Zealand tested the gel therapy in 242 babies under their care and, based on the results, say it should now be a first-line treatment. Their work is published in The Lancet. Sugar dose Dextrose gel treatment costs just over £1 per baby and is simpler to administer than glucose via a drip, say Prof Jane Harding and her team at the University of Auckland. Current treatment typically involves extra feeding and repeated blood tests to measure blood sugar levels. But many babies are admitted to intensive care and given intravenous glucose because their blood sugar remains low - a condition doctors call hypoglycaemia. The study assessed whether treatment with dextrose gel was more effective than feeding alone at reversing hypoglycaemia. Neil Marlow, from the Institute for Women's Health at University College London, said that although dextrose gel had fallen into disuse, these findings suggested it should be resurrected as a treatment. We now had high-quality evidence that it was of value, he said. Andy Cole, chief executive of premature baby charity Bliss, said: "This is a very interesting piece of new research and we always welcome anything that has the potential to improve outcomes for babies born premature or sick. "This is a cost-effective treatment and could reduce admissions to intensive care services, which are already working at high capacity levels. "While the early results of this research show benefits to babies born with low blood sugars, it is clear there is more research to be done to implement this treatment."

ROSES ARE RED VIOLETS ARE BLUE CELEBRATING VALENTINE DAY IS WHAT TRANGSGRESSORS DO SHAYTAAN'S PRESENT BETWEEN THE INTIMATE TWO SO REMEMBER O MUSLIM! IT IS FORBIDDEN FOR YOU!

Question and Answer: Q. is it a sunnah of our Beloved Nabi Muhammad (S.A.W) to have the nikah on the day of Jumuah? (Query published as received) A. There is no record of the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) prescribing Nikah on the day of Jumu'ah to be Sunnah and it therefore should not be regarded as Sunnah. A person may perform Nikah on any day of the week. Nevertheless, it is Mustahabb (preferable) according to some of the Fuqahaa (jurists) such as Allamah ibnul Humam, Imam Ibn Qudamah and Imam Zakariyya al-Ansari (Rahimahumullah) to perform Nikah on a Friday. It is also recorded that some of the Sahabah and Tabi'oon (successors of the Sahabah - Radiyallahu Anhum) preferred Nikah on this day due to the day of Friday being a blessed day. And Allah Knows Best Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians