ummtaalib

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 11/9/2011 Darul Ifta Australia www.mufti-online.net

Question Is eating prawns halaal or makroo Answer In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu `alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. There is a difference of opinion pertaining to the permissibility of prawns. One group of Ulama hold the view that it is permissible while another group believe it is not permissible. The reason for the difference stems from the categorization of prawns. Those who hold the view of the permissibility of prawns believe that prawns are fish. Others believes that prawns are not fish. Amongst the Ulama who believe that prawns are fish are a)Hazrath Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi rahmatullāhi ῾alaihi b)Hazrath Mufti Abdur Raheem Lajpuri rahmatullāhi ῾alaihi c)Hazrath Mufti Mohammad Abdus Salaam Chatgami rahmatullāhi ῾alaihi Those Ulama who have not regarded prawns to be fish are a)Hazrath Maulana Rasheed Ahmed Gangohi rahmatullāhi ῾alaihi b)Hazrath Maulana Khaleel Ahmed Saharanpuri rahmatullāhi ῾alaihi c)Hazrath Maulana Rasheed Ahmed Ludyanwi rahmatullāhi ῾alaihi When analyzing the basis of the different views, one finds disagreement on what constitutes the valid shar’ee measure upon which we could base the classification of prawns. Those that regard prawns as impermissible believe that the valid grounds would be the classification of the scientists. Hazrath Mufti Rasheed Ahmed Ludyanwi(ra) in Ahsanul Fatāwā mentions that there are three features in fish. 1) Spine 2) Gill 3) Fins These features are not found in prawns, hence prawns are not fish. Hazrath Mufti Abdur Raheem Lajpuri rahmatullāhi ῾alaihi states that prawns have been referred to as fish. Hereunder are some references; الروبيان (جهينكا) هو السمك صغير جداً (حيوة الحيوان 1/460) الاربيان بالكسر سمك كالدود (قاموس المحيط 4/332) (و الاربيان بالكسر سمك كالدود) و في الصحاح بيض من السمك كالدوديكون بالبصرة فصل الراء من باب الواو و الياء (صحاح مع تاج العروس عربي 10/143) امام بغوي و السيد مرتضى الزبيدي Hazrath Ml Ashraf Ali Thanwi (ra) says “there are no specific features of a samak(proven through valid evidence) in the absence of which, would discount it from being classified as a samak.” There are two reliable opinions with respect to the issue of prawns. Taqwā would demand that a person refrains from eating prawns, though there is leeway in consuming it. And Allah knows best. Ali bin Cassim Student Darul Iftaa Los Angeles, CA (USA) Checked and Approved by, Muftī Ebrahim Desai Daruliftaa 35 Candella Rd, Durban, South Africa T : 031-207-5772 F: 086-692-7275 www.daruliftaa.net askimam

My respected Shaykh, Hadhrat Maulana Adam Sahib, holds regular gatherings for students and graduates of the Jame’ah. During these gatherings he gives many advices and thought provoking talks related to the betterment of one’s Self. During his recent gathering my Shaykh mentioned a invaluable story mentioned by Maulana Ashraf Ali Thanvi رحمه الله. The story, to its nearest meaning, is as follows: A man once had a horse which was extremely lazy. The horse would refuse to carry out any of his master’s work and would sit down in between any task, thus leaving it incomplete. The master had made many attempts of reforming his horse, but to no avail the horse continued to disobey the master and was adamant upon not working. After this continued for some time, the master decided that it was in his best interest to sell the horse in the market place and called for a salesperson who knew the market and was an expert on the field of selling horses. They agreed an amount for his services and he headed towards the marketplace with the horse. The master accompanied the horse and the salesperson to the market to overlook the transaction. At the marketplace, the salesperson took his spot and began advertising the horse he had for sale, “who will but this fantastic horse from me… this mighty strong horse… a hardworking and obedient horse who will give many years of service… you will not find a better horse at this discounted price….” All the while the master was listening carefully to these words of the salesperson and he also noticed the increase in interest from those passing by, until it cam to the point where there was a large group of people gathering around the horse who all seemed intent on making a bid for the horse. At this moment the master went to the salesperson and said to him, “if this horse is so good and hardworking then why should I sell it and benefit others. Give the horse to me for I shall take it back and take benefit from it myself”. Saying this he took the horse and returned to his house. Moral of the Story My Shaykh then continued to explain the moral of the story… We are well aware of our situation and how disobedient we are towards Allah سبحانه وتعالى. We are more aware of our shortcomings than anyone else. We are witness upon our evil and sinister intentions and ploys. Yet when a few good words are said in regards to us we tend to forget all of the above and fall into the trap of praise and appreciation. This is like the example of that ignorant man who was well aware of the defects of his horse, yet the praise of one man was sufficient for him to forget all those faults and take back a horse which he himself was displeased with. Lesson We should always be present minded and be aware of our shortcomings. We are witnesses upon our wrong doings and we should never forget this in light of some praises which people may say about us. Yes, we should never display and announce our sins to others but at the same time we should never fall prey to praises in such a manner that we fail to see our downfall. May Allah سبحانه وتعالى grant us all the understanding and give us the inclination and ability to stay steadfast upon the Deena. Aameen. Collection of Treasures

15 Ways to increase earnings with proofs from Quran and Sunnah (Part 1 of 2) 1. The Taqwa of Allah And whosoever fears Allâh and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty). (2) And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine. And whosoever puts his trust in Allâh, then He will suffice him. Verily, Allâh will accomplish his purpose. Indeed Allâh has set a measure for all things. [surah Al-Talaaq, Verse 2-3] And if the people of the towns had believed and had the Taqwâ (piety), certainly, We should have opened for them blessings from the heaven and the earth, but they belied (the Messengers). So We took them (with punishment) for what they used to earn (polytheism and crimes). [ Surah Al-Araf, Verse 96] 2. Seeking forgiveness and repentance "I said (to them): 'Ask forgiveness from your Lord; Verily, He is Oft-Forgiving; (10) 'He will send rain to you in abundance; (11) 'And give you increase in wealth and children, and bestow on you gardens and bestow on you rivers.' "[surah Nooh, Verses 10-12] "And O my people! Ask forgiveness of your Lord and then repent to Him, He will send you (from the sky) abundant rain, and add strength to your strength, so do not turn away as Mujrimûn (criminals, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allâh)."[surah Hood, Verse 52] And (commanding you): "Seek the forgiveness of your Lord, and turn to Him in repentance, that He may grant you good enjoyment, for a term appointed, and bestow His abounding Grace to every owner of grace (i.e. the one who helps and serves needy and deserving, physically and with his wealth, and even with good words). But if you turn away, then I fear for you the torment of a Great Day (i.e. the Day of Resurrection). [surah Hood, Verse 3] 3. Tawakkul ‘Umar Ibn Al-Khattab Radhiyallahu Anhu reported that Prophet (Peace be upon him) said,"If you were to put trust in Allah (Tawakkul) the way that Allah deserves, then you would be provided for as birds are; they leave (in search of food) at the beginning of the day famished, and return at the end of the day full" [shaykah Al-Abani’s Silsilat Al-Sahihah, # 310] And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine. And whosoever puts his trust in Allâh, then He will suffice him. Verily, Allâh will accomplish his purpose. Indeed Allâh has set a measure for all things.[surah Al-Talaaq, Verse 2-3] Would that they were contented with what Allâh and His Messenger (peace be upon him) gave them and had said: "Allâh is Sufficient for us. Allâh will give us of His Bounty, and so will His Messenger (from alms, etc.). We implore Allâh (to enrich us)." [surah Al-Tawba, Verse 59] 4. Constantly worshiping Allah Ta'ala Abu Hurayrah Radhiyallahu Anhu stated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said,"Allah says, ‘O son of Adam! Take time out to constantly worship me, I will fill your chest with richness , and remove your poverty. And if you do not do so. I will make your hands filled with occupation, and will not remove your poverty” [shaykh Al-Albani declared it to authentic in his Sunan Al-Tirmidhi] Ma’qal Ibn Yasaar Radhiyallahu Anhu reported that Prophet (peace be upon him) said:“Your Lord, all glory and honor be to Him says, ‘O Son of Adam! Take the time out to constantly worship Me, I will fill your chest with richness! O Son of Adam! Do not distance yourself from Me, or I will fill your chest with poverty, and fill your hands with work ”[shaykah Al-Albani’s Silsilat Al-Sahihah, # 1359] 5.Thanking Allah Ta'ala And (remember) when your Lord proclaimed: "If you give thanks (by accepting Faith and worshiping none but Allâh), I will give you more (of My Blessings), but if you are thankless (i.e. disbelievers), verily! My Punishment is indeed severe." [surah Ibrahim, Verse 7] 6. Frequently performing Hajj and ‘Umrah It has been reported by Abdullah Ibn Mas’ud Radhiyallahu Anhu that the Prophet of Allah (Peace be upon him) said:"Follow up between Hajj and ‘Umrah (i.e. continuously repeat the performance of Hajj and ‘Umrah) because they both eliminate poverty and sins just like a furnace eliminates the dirty impurities of iron, gold and silver. And an accepted Hajj has no reward less than paradise" [shaykh Al-Albani in Sahih Sunan Al-Tirmidhi (1/245)] 7. Establishing the ties of kinship Abu Hurayrah Radhiyallahu Anhu reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:“Whoever is pleased with the fact that his Rizq be increased, and his life-span be extended, then let him establish the ties of kinship”[Al-Bukhari, # 5985] Anas Ibn Malik reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:“Whoever wishes to have his Rizq increased, and his life-span be extended, then let him establish the ties of kinship” [Al-Bukari, # 5986] Abu Hurayrah Radhiyallahu Anhu reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said:“Learn enough of your lineage, so that you can establish the ties of kinship, for establish the ties of kinship increases the love amongst families and multiplies wealth and extends age” [shaykh Al-Albani in Sahih Sunan Al-Tirmidhi (2/190)] Islaaminfo

Behind every successful man is a woman! "Behind every successful man who devotes his time to serving the Deen, is a woman. She encourages him and supports him, takes care of the children and the household, she serves his ageing parents and his guests, and she is content with whatever little he can provide" Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat (Hafizahullah)

One day a farmer's donkey fell down into a well. The animal cried piteously for hours as the farmer tried to figure out what to do. Finally, he decided the animal was old, and the well needed to be covered up anyway; it just wasn't worth it to retrieve the donkey. He invited all his neighbors to come over and help him. They all grabbed a shovel and began to shovel dirt into the well. At first, the donkey realized what was happening and cried horribly. Then, to everyone's amazement he quieted down. A few shovel loads later, the farmer finally looked down the well. He was astonished at what he saw. With each shovel of dirt that hit his back, the donkey was doing something amazing. He would shake it off and take a step up. As the farmer's neighbors continued to shovel dirt on top of the animal, he would shake it off and take a step up. Pretty soon, everyone was amazed as the donkey stepped up over the edge of the well and happily trotted off! MORAL : Life is going to shovel dirt on you, all kinds of dirt. The trick to getting out of the well is to shake it off and take a step up. Each of our troubles is a steppingstone. We can get out of the deepest wells just by not stopping, never giving up! Shake it off and take a step up. Remember the five simple rules to be happy: 1. Free your heart from hatred - Forgive. 2. Free your mind from worries - Most never happens. 3. Live simply and appreciate what you have. 4. Give more. 5. Expect less from people but more from yourself. You have two choices... smile and close this page, or pass this along to someone else to share the lesson

The Angel by the Grave of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) عن عمار بن ياسر رضي الله عنه قال قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم إن الله وكل بقبري ملكا أعطاه الله أسماء الخلائق فلا يصلي علي أحد إلى يوم القيامة إلا أبلغني باسمه واسم أبيه هذا فلان بن فلان قد صلى عليك رواه البزار (الترغيب و الترهيب رقم 2574) Hadhrat Ammaar bin Yaasir (Radhiallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: “Allah Ta’ala appointed an angel to remain by my grave, such an angel whom Allah Ta’ala gave him the knowledge of the names of the creation. Thus no person will send durood upon me until the day of Qiyaamah, except that he conveys it to me with his name and the name of his father. (He will say) ‘this is so and so the son of so and so, who has recited durood upon you.’” Al-Qawlul Badee’ Allamah Sakhaawi (Rahmatullahi Alaihi) says: “A very reliable student from among the students of Shaikh Raslaan (Rahmatullahi Alaihi) told me that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) appeared in his dream and the kitaab ‘Qawlul Badee’ (a detailed kitaab concerning durood written by Allamah Sakhaawi (Rahmatullahi Alaihi)) was presented to him, and Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) accepted it.” Allamah Sakhaawi (Rahmatullahi Alaihi) says that this pleased me very much and I therefore hope that Allah Ta’ala and Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) accept it, and that I will be greatly rewarded in both the worlds. I therefore urge you all to continue reciting salaat on Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) in all sincerity, for indeed your salaat reaches Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) in his mubaarak grave, and your name is mentioned in his presence. (Fazaail Durood- Qawlul Badee’) يَا رَبِّ صَلِّ وَ سَلِّم دَائِمًا أَبَدًا عَلَى حَبِيبِكَ خَيرِ الخَلْقِ كُلِّهِمِ Ihyaaud Deen

Jumu'ah Reminder! “Whoever reads Surah al-Kahf on the day of Jumu’ah, will have a light that will shine from him from one Friday to the next.” (Sunan Al Kubra lil Bayhaqi- Vol: 3- Pg: 353 – Dar ul kutub al Ilmiyyah)

The Last & Final Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) A MERCY TO ALL Allaah's Messenger was the kindest of men in the same way as he excelled all others in courage and valour. Being extremely kind-hearted, his eyes brimmed with tears at the slightest sign of inhumanity. A Companion, Shaddaad bin 'Aws reported the Apostle as saying: "Allaah has commanded you to show kindness to everyone, so if you have to kill, kill in a good manner, and if you slaughter an animal, slaughter it gently. If anyone of you has to slay an animal, he should sharpen the blade first and treat the animal well." Ibn 'Abbaas relates that a man threw a goat on its side and then started sharpening his knife. When the Prophet saw him he said: "Do you want to kill it twice? Why did you not sharpen the knife before throwing it on the ground?" A Mercy for the Believers The Messenger's compassion towards the believers was of the utmost degree. The Quran describes his compassion in the following verse, which means: "There has certainly come to you a Messenger from among yourselves. Grievous to him is what you suffer; [he is] concerned over you [i.e., your guidance] and to the believers is kind and merciful." [Quran: 9:128] Sa'd bin 'Ubaadah once became ill, so Allaah's Messenger visited him in his house. On seeing his faithful Companion in a pitiful state, he was moved to tears. Then, he said: "Allaah does not punish because of tears, nor because of grief, but he punishes because of this."- and he pointed to his tongue. [Al-Bukhaari] A Mercy Towards his Enemies The prisoners of war taken captive at the battle of Badr were amongst his bitterest enemies. Nevertheless, he made sure that they were given the best of treatment. Among them was Suhayl bin 'Amr who was a fiery speaker and was denouncing the Prophet . 'Umar one the Prophet's closest companions, suggested that two of his lower teeth be pulled out so that he might not be so vile in his speeches. The Prophet replied: "Were I to do this, Allaah would disfigure me on the Day of Judgement, despite the fact that I am His messenger." In Makkah, his people inflicted him with every kind of suffering, eventually forcing him to emigrate to Madeenah, and then waged war on him for five years. However, when he conquered Makkah without bloodshed in the twenty-first year of his Prophethood, he asked the Makkan unbelievers who were awaiting his decision about them: "How do you expect me to treat you?" They responded unanimously: "You are a noble one, the son of a noble one." He announced to them his decision: "You may go free! No reproach this day shall be on you; may God forgive you." A Mercy for Women Prophet Muhammad was also very kind and affectionate towards women. Women were very badly treated in those times. The Noble Prophet gave them honour and dignity at par with men in the community. 'Umar reported: "We did not have much regard for women while we were at Makkah, but they were better treated in Madeenah. Allaah's Messenger established women's rights through his sayings and commandments, which improved their position and status." A Mercy for Children Allaah's Messenger was particularly compassionate towards children. When he saw a child crying, he sat beside him or her and shared his or her feelings. He felt the pain of a mother for her child more than the mother herself. Once he said: "I stand in prayer and wish to prolong it. However, I hear the cry of a child and cut the prayer short for the anxiety which the mother is feeling." [Al-Bukhaari] He would take children in his arms and embrace them. He was once hugging his beloved grandsons, Hasan and Husayn, when Aqrah bin Haabis told him, 'I have got ten children. So far, I have not kissed any of them.' Allaah's Messenger responded: "The one with no pity for others is not pitied." [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim] According to another version, he said: "What can I do for you if Allaah has removed from you the feeling of compassion?" [At-Tirmithi] A Mercy for Slaves The Prophet strongly enjoined the duty of kind and generous treatment upon slaves, servants and labourers engaged in manual work. Jaabir related the Apostle of Allaah as saying: "Feed them with the food which you eat, clothe them with such clothing as you wear, and do not cause trouble to Allaah's creatures." The Apostle is further stated to have said: "Those whom Allaah has made your dependents are your brothers, servants and helpmates. Anybody whose brother has been made subservient to him ought to feed him with the food he eats and clothe him with the clothes he wears; command him not to do that which he is unable to do and if it becomes necessary to do so then he should help him in doing the job." A Mercy for Animals His compassion encompassed not only human beings, but also animals. The Prophet forbade his companions to keep the unintelligent creatures hungry or thirsty, to disturb or to overburden them. He commended that kindness and putting them at ease were meritorious acts tending to bring man nearer to Allaah. Abu Hurayrah reports the Prophet as saying: "A traveller who was thirsty saw a well in the way. He got inside the well and when he came out he saw a dog licking mud due to thirst. The man realised that the dog was as thirsty as him, so he got into the well again, filled his leather sock with water and carried it out holding it with his teeth. Thus, he quenched the thirst of the dog. Allaah was pleased with this act of kindness and pardoned his sins." The Companions asked: "O Messenger of Allaah, is there recompense in the matter of beasts and wild animals also?" The Prophet replied: "There is recompense in regard to every creature that has a living heart." 'Abdullaah bin 'Umar related that the Prophet said: "A woman was cast away to hell only because she had withheld food and water from her cat and refused to set it free so that the cat might satisfy its hunger by eating worms and insects." Once on return from a military campaign, a few Companions took away the chicks of a bird from their nest to stroke them. The mother bird came back and when it could not find its chicks in the nest, it began to fly around screeching. When informed of the matter, Allaah's Messenger became angry and ordered the chicks to be put back in the nest. [Abu Daawood] Conclusion The love and compassion of Allaah's Messenger for all kinds of creatures was not of the kind claimed by today's 'humanists'. He was sincere and balanced in his love and compassion. He was more compassionate than any other person. He was a Prophet raised by Allaah, the Creator and Sustainer of all beings, for the guidance and happiness of conscious beings - mankind and jinn - and the harmony of existence. Therefore, he lived not for himself but for others; he is a mercy for all the worlds. "Indeed, in this [Quran] is notification for a worshipping people. And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds." [Quran: 21:106-107] EISLAM

Allah, The Most Exalted, says: "And when My servants ask you, (Oh Muhammad), concerning Me - indeed I am near. I respond to the invocation of the supplicant when he calls upon Me. So let them respond to Me (by obedience) and believe in Me that they may be (rightly) guided. (Qur’an-2:185) The Noble Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) is reported to have said: “The duas of three people are not rejected. The fasting person’s at the time of breaking fast. A Just Ruler. The oppressed person’s – whose Dua Allah takes above the clouds and the doors of the heavens are opened for it, and Allah says ‘I will certainly help you, even if it be after some time.” (Hadith-Ahmed, Tirmidhi, Ibn Hibaan) Note: Every dua made is granted acceptance with Allah Ta'ala in one of three forms: 1. Allah Ta'ala grants the person what is requested 2. Allah Ta'ala prevents some calamity or harm from afflicting the person in exchange of the dua. 3. The reward of the dua is stored until the Day of Judgement (when the recompense will be far greater) EISLAM

Allah, The Most Exalted, says: ‘If you are thankful, I will surely increase you (in favor); but if you deny, indeed, My punishment is severe’.” (Qur’an 14:7) The Noble Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) is reported to have said: “He who does not thank people, does not thank Allah”. (Hadith-Tirmidhi) “If the recipient of a kindness says to his benefactor Jazakallahu Khair (May Allah reward you with goodness), indeed he has fully praised and been thankful.” (Hadith-Tirmidhi) Note: Indeed one who does not thank those who were kind to him, is not thankful to Allah Ta’ala. We should endeavour to show favour and kindness to those who have benefitted us in whatever way. To pray in these words “Jazakallahu Khair” expresses that I am unable to recompense, so I invoke Allah Subhanahu wa Ta'ala that He may give you a better reward for this. Thus, these words carry praise and benefit for the benefactor. EISLAM

Pearls of Wisdon numbers 21-29 are missing. InshaAllah we shall post them here when they are made available

Pearls of Wisdom number 11-20 are missing. InshaAllah when they are available we shall post them here.

Virtues of Salaah Abu Hurayra Radiyallahu ‘anhu said, "I heard the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, say, 'What do you think would happen if there was a river by someone's door in which he washed five times every day? Do you think that any dirt would remain on him?' They said, 'Not a scrap of dirt would remain on him.' He said, 'That is a metaphor of the five prayers by which Allah wipes out wrong actions.'" Jäbir ibne-’Abdullah Radiyallahu ‘anhuma narrates that Nabi Sallallahu alaihi wasallam said: 'The key to Paradise is Salat and the key to Salat is Wuzu'. (Musnad Ahmad) Anas Radiyallahu ‘anhu narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: 'The comfort and delight of my eyes has been placed in Salat.' (Nasai). Hanzalah Al Usaidi Radiyallahu ‘anhu narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: 'The person who guards the five times Salat, its Wuzu, its prescribed time, its proper Ruku’ and Sujüd, while perceiving it to be the Right of Allah on him, he is forbidden upon Fire.' (Musnad Ahmad) Abu Qatadah ibne-Rib’i Radiyallahu ‘anhu reported that Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam narrates in a Hadith Qudsi that Allah ‘Azza wa Jall has said:' Verily, I have enjoined upon your Ummah five times Salat, and I have taken upon myself an oath that anyone who observes them at their appointed time, I shall admit him into Paradise; if anyone does not offer them regularly, there is no such guarantee from Me for him (I may punish him or forgive him).'(Abu Dawud) Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu ‘anhu narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: 'The five times Salat and the prayer of Friday to Friday, and the fasting of Ramadan to Ramadan, are atonements for sins that have been committed between them, provided the sinner avoids major sins.' (Muslim). Abdullah ibne-’Amr Radiyallahu ‘anhuma narrates that one day, Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam mentioned Salat and said: 'For him who remains mindful of his Salat, it will be a light and an argument in his favour and a means of his salvation on the Day of Judgement; and for him who is not mindful of his Salat, there shall be neither a light, nor an argument in his favour, nor a means for his salvation. And on the Day of Judgement, he will be with Fir’aun, Hamãn and Ubayy ibne-Khalaf.' (Musnad Ahmad) Note: Fir’aun was the king of Egypt at the time of Musa ‘Alaihis salam, Hamãn was his minister, and Ubayy ibne-Khalaf was an ardent idolater and adversary of Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam. Abu Umamah Radiyallahu ‘anhu narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam was asked: O Rasulullah! At what time is Du’a the most readily listened to and accepted? He replied: 'The one made during the course of latter part of the night, and after the obligatory Salat'. (Tirmidhi) Ruwaibah Radiyallahu ‘anhu narrates:' I heard Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam saying: Undoubtedly he will not enter Hell-Fire, who has offered Salat before the rising of the sun, and before its setting; that is Fajr and ‘Asr.' (Muslim) Jundub Al Qasri Radiyallahu ‘anhu narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: 'He who offers the Fajr Salat, is indeed in the Protection of Allah (so do not trouble those who are under Allah’s Protection); for you will be answerable to Allah for violating this protection; because undoubtedly, if He takes anyone to account for violating this protection, He will catch him and fling him headlong on his face into the Hell-Fire.' (Muslim) Umme Farwah Radiyallahu ‘anhã narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam was asked: 'Which is the best of the good deeds? He said: To offer Salat at the beginning of its prescribed time.' (Abu Dawud). Jabir ibne-Abdullah Radiyallahu ‘anhuma narrates: I heard Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam saying: 'Between man and (his entering into) polytheism and unbelief is the abandonment of Salat.' (Muslim) Note: Scholars of Islam have offered several explanations to this hadith. One is that a person who abandons Salat becomes increasingly arrogant and bold in committing sins, which may endanger his faith. Another explanation is that the one who abandons Salat runs the risk of an evil end. Abdullah ibne-’Amr ibnil As narrates from his father, who heard from his grandfather Radiyallahu ‘anhuma, who narrated that Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: 'Command your children when they are seven years old, to perform Salat; and beat them for not observing it when they are ten years old. And at this age separate their beds (i.e. do not let brothers and sisters sleep together).' (Abu Dawud) Note: Beating should not cause bodily harm. 'Uthman ibn 'Affan said, "I heard the Messenger of Allah, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, say, "There is no Muslim man who attends a prescribed prayer and does wudu' for it well and is humble in it and in its bowing, without that being expiation for the sins before it as long as he did not commit any major sin. This will always apply." islaaminfo.co.za

Virtues of Wudu Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu ‘anhu narrates: 'I heard my loving friend, Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam saying: The jewelery of a Mu'min (on the Day of Resurrection) will cover to the places where the water of ablution reaches.' (Muslim) Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu ‘anhu narrates: I heard Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam saying: 'My Ummah will be called on the Day of Resurrection with their limbs and faces shining from traces of Wudu. So whoever amongst you can increase the area of his radiance should do so (i.e. by performing Wudu regularly)'. (Bukhari) ‘Uthmãn ibne-’Affãn Radiyallahu ‘anhu narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: 'Anyone who performs Wudu, and performs Wudu excellently (meaning thereby to carefully observe all the etiquettes), his sins will come out from his body, even coming out from under his nails.' (Muslim) Note: The opinion of the majority of the scholars is that minor sins, are forgiven by Allah Ta'ala through Wudu, Salat and other forms of worship. The major sins, are forgiven by Istighfâr (seeking forgiveness) and Taubah (turning towards Allah with repentance). However, Allah Ta'ala by his bountiful Grace, may even forgive the major sins by virtue of above deeds. (Nawawi) Abu Umämah Radiyallahu ‘anhu narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: 'Whoever stands up to perform his Wudu, intending to offer Salat, then cleans his hands, the sins of his two hands fallout with the first drop of water. Then, when he rinses his mouth, and draws water into his nose and expels it, the sins of his tongue and two lips fallout with the first drop of water. Then, as he cleans his face, the sins of his hearing and seeing fallout with the first drop (of water). Then, when be cleans his two arms past the elbows and his two feet past the ankles, he becomes free of all his offenses and sins, just as he was, the day his mother gave him birth. He (then) said: When he stands for Salat Allah elevates his position, and if he (merely) sits (without standing for Salat ) even then his sitting is free of sins.' (Musnad Ahmad) lbne -‘Umar Radiyallahu ‘anhuma narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: 'For a person who performs Wudu (while already) in a state of purity, for him ten virtues are written'.(Abu Däwüd) Note: Islamic scholars have written that condition for making fresh Wudu, while already in a state of Wudu, is that one has performed any form of worship with the previous Wudu. (Badhl-ul-Majhud) Abu Hurairah Radiyallahu ‘anhu narrates that Rasulullah Sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam said: 'Were it not (for the fear) of overburdening my Ummah, I would have ordered them to (brush their teeth with) Siwak at every Salat.' (Muslim) Note: Siwäk or Miswaak is a natural tooth brush prepared from the roots or branches of various trees and bushes. The most common and beneficial is that of the root of the Salvadora Persica, a wild desert plant known in Arabic as Arak, and in Urdu as Peelu.

Reciting Aayatul Kursi after Every Fardh Salaah عن أبي أمامة رضي الله عنه قال قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم من قرأ آية الكرسي دبر كل صلاة لم يمنعه من دخول الجنة إلا أن يموت رواه النسائي والطبراني بأسانيد أحدها صحيح وقال شيخنا أبو الحسن هو على شرط البخاري وابن حبان في كتاب الصلاة وصححه (الترغيب رقم 2468) و في رواية ضعيفة عن علي رضي الله عنه قال : سمعت رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم على أعواد المنبر يقول : من قرأ آية الكرسي في دبر كل صلاة لم يمنعه من دخول الجنة إلا الموت ومن قرأها حين يأخذ مضجعه آمنه الله على داره ودار جاره وأهل دويرات حوله. )رواه البيهقي في شعب الإيمان رقم 2395) Hadhrat Abu Umaamah (Radhiallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “Whoever recites Aayatul Kursi after every Fardh salaah, nothing prevents him from entering Paradise except death. (In another Hadith reported by Hadhrat Ali (Radhiallahu Anhu)) The one who recites Aayatul kursi at night when retiring to bed, Allah Ta’ala will protect his home, the homes of his neighbours, and the homes of the people around him. Ihyaaud Deen

(Click on picture to enlarge)

Another great source for learning the recitation of the Qur'an! Qur'anic Sciences Institute Start from Scratch Phonetics Exerciser Tajweed Rules Read or Memorise and much more...........

Love for Qur'an Here is a chance for you to learn in the comfort of your own home and at a time that suits you. All you have to do is pick the course above and print out the PDF document and listen to the MP3 recordings that go with each lesson. Put it this way after the first course your prayer content will be correct and amazing because now you have better pronunciation and therefore you can concentrate properly. In course 2 you will look at how to recite the Quran from scratch, yes, from the alphabet all the way to directly looking into the book of Allah and reading fluently. Seems like a dream right? All this can become a reality, all we need from you is your time. In course 3 we will have a look at the rules of Tajweed, which basically means fine tuning and in course 4 we will go through some chapters of the Quran. All in all not a bad deal, all the information you need and at no charge. Remember this is not a substitute for a teacher but rather an aid, after completing each course please check with a local qualified scholar to listen to your prayer or your Quran. Course 1: Your Prayer Made Easy This course will enable you to go through your prayer content step by step. All you have to do now is print the PDF documents on this page and with each page you will find a recording to match. Open the document to the relevant page and then click on the recording with the same title and off you go. Studying your prayer could not be any easier, in the comfort of your own home and when you are free. Most of all, no more embarrassing moments in front of any one. One thing we would suggest is that once the course is complete, please visit a local scholar and recite the content of your prayer to them. Once you have completed the course please spread the message and be a source of correcting someone else's prayer. Every time they pray you will get an equal reward, how amazing is that. How much effort would it take for you to help someone else, not much right.... Course 2: Your Quran Made Easy This is the key course we need to master and therefore I recommend that time be taken to understand each lesson before moving on. Quran is the word of Allah and is very dear to all muslims wherever they may be. We need to recite correctly as it was revealed to the Messenger of Allah (pbuh). When this course is complete, you will be able to directly look into the Quran and read. The first 8 audio recordings, alphabet parts 1-6, full mouth letters and similar sounds are all related to the PDF document named My Alphabet. The rest of the audio is related to the main study book and is clearly marked lesson 1,2,3 etc. We hope you have fun learning and do not forget to pray for us. Remember it is not a crime to go over a lesson a few times to understand it and if need be you can always click the support button and send us a question anytime... Course 3: Your Tajweed Made Easy This course will put the finishing touches to your recitation and teach you certain rules that are related to the Quran. This is a basic level of tajweed and our goal is to get you reading the Quran. After this course we are hoping that you will be able to put words together, construct full verses and in the end memorise chapters of the Quran. These set of rules are not the be all and end all by no means and therefore we want students to recognise that. On the other hand these rules are enough for you as a beginner to get the ball rolling. We would like you to print the PDF and listen to the relevant recording. Please remember the key is understanding and not speed. Not long now before you can sit back and say - At last I have done it... Course 4: Your Surah Made Easy This course will cover 11 surahs (chapters) of the Quran in detail. Surah Al-Fatiha and the last ten surahs of the Quran. You will be shown how to recite these surahs step by step. You will be aided to identify the tajweed rules and also how to pronounce the surahs. The benefit of this will be that you will have more surahs for your prayers. Another benefit will be that after the last 10 surahs you can go through many more on your own and mark the rules. Please remember to go through whatever you learn with scholars locally. After completing this course we hope and pray that you are on a level to sit down on your own and remember your Lord through his words...

Question: Salams, dear mufti sahib, if some one has intercourse with there wife when she is in her monthly periods without realising,what should be done? Answer: بسم الله الرحمن الرحيم الجواب و بالله التوفيق It is strictly prohibited and unlawful, according to the text of Quran, Hadith and the consensus of the Muslims, for a man to have sexual intercouse with his wife whilst she is menstruating. Allah the most high mentions: “O Muhammed, they ask you concerning menstruation. Say: it is an impurity, so keep away from women in their menstruation and do not approach them till they are purified.” (Surah Baqarah, Verse 222) In this verse Allah clearly states menstruation as impurity and commands to stay away from her until she is purified. The Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam has mentioned: “Whoever has intercourse with a menstruating woman or with a woman in her back passage, or goes to a fortune teller and believes what he says, has disbelieved in that which Allaah Ta’ala revealed to Muhammad Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam. (Narrated by Tirmidhi,Hadeeth 3904) Therefore in light of the Qur’an and Hadith, to have intercourse during menstruation in not only strictly prohibited, but a major sin. Furthermore, health experts have said intercourse during menstruation results in many severe illnesses and diseases. The Prophet Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam has mentioned: “That person who has intercourse with his wife whilst she is menstruating should give half a dinar in charity.” (Narrated by An Nasai, Hadeeth 289) The expiation of this sin is that a person repents to Allah Ta’ala and seeks his forgiveness. And if he has the ability he should give 6 grams of silver or the equivalent of it in sadaqa. And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best Mufti Ziyaul Haque Patel www.muftianswers.com ١) وَيَسْأَلُونَكَ عَنِ الْمَحِيضِ قُلْ هُوَ أَذًى فَاعْتَزِلُواْ النِّسَاء فِي الْمَحِيضِ وَلاَ تَقْرَبُوهُنَّ حَتَّىَ يَطْهُرْنَ فَإِذَا تَطَهَّرْنَ فَأْتُوهُنَّ مِنْ حَيْثُ أَمَرَكُمُ اللّهُ إِنَّ اللّهَ يُحِبُّ التَّوَّابِينَ وَيُحِبُّ الْمُتَطَهِّرِينَ. ( سورة البقرة، ص ٢٢٢) (فصل: في حكم هذه الآية وفيه مسائل) المسألة الأولى: أجمع المسلمون على تحريم الجماع في زمن الحيض، ومستحله كافر عن أبي هريرة عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال: «من أتى حائضا أو امرأة في دبرها أو كاهنا فقد كفر بما أنزل على محمد» أخرجه الترمذي. وقال: إنما معنى هذا عند أهل العلم على التغليظ ومن فعله وهو عالم بالتحريم عزره الإمام وفي وجوب الكفارة قولان أحدهما أنه يستغفر الله ويتوب إليه ولا كفارة عليه وهو قول أبي حنيفة والشافعي في الجديد، والقول الثاني أنه تجب عليه الكفارة، وهو القول القديم للشافعي وبه قال أحمد بن حنبل: لما روي عن ابن عباس عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم في الرجل يقع على امرأته وهي حائض، قال: يتصدق بنصف دينار وفي رواية. قال: إذا كان دما أحمر فدينار وإن كان دما أصفر فنصف دينار أخرجه الترمذي. وقال: رفعه بعضهم عن ابن عباس ووقفه بعضهم. ٢) عن أبي هريرة عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال من أتى حائضا أو امرأة في دبرها أو كاهنا فقد كفر بما أنزل على محمد صلى الله عليه وسلم (سنن الترمذي، باب ما جاء في كراهية إتيان الحائض، رقم الحديث ٣٨٠٤) ٣) عن ابن عباس عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم في الذي يأتي امرأته وهي حائض قال يتصدق بدينار، أو بنصف دينار. (رواه النسائي رقم الحديث ٢٨٩)

Employer/Employee Ethics in Islam In this world a person is either an employer or employee. Islam has laid great emphasis that both parties must be just, sincere and transparent in all their dealings and contracts. Allah Ta'ala commands us in the Qur'an with the words: “Be just, for it is the closest to piety (Taqwa)” (Quran S 5, V 8) Neither party should oppress the other by not fulfilling their obligations as per their contracts and agreements. A Muslim, as an employer or employee, should always keep in mind that I am a Muslim first and then an employer/employee. Therefore, through my dignified Akhlaaq (character), just dealings, and fulfilling my commitments, I will become a flag bearer of the noble teachings of Islam. Not only will this behaviour of mine be a means of Da'wah and spreading Islam but it will also pave an easy pathway to Barakah in my earnings and to the perpetual Rahmah of Allah Ta'ala. Special attention in this regard should be directed towards the treatment of domestic and menial workers. It has become almost commonplace for them to be targets of verbal abuse and treatment more befitting animals than human beings. It is our Islamic obligation to realise that they are humans like you and I, and have feelings and emotions like you and I. They should thus be treated with due respect and courtesy. Failure to do so has the potential to see much harm and negativity targeting the Muslim community. May Allah Ta'ala protect us from His punishment and endow us with the ability of fulfilling the rights of others, Aameen. Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians 223 Alpine Road, Overport, Durban

Question: I would like to know if in Jannah there house with families that we will be reunited with, and in Jannah men will marry the houris, then can women have men hoors in Jannah? Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. Allah Ta‘ālā alone has full knowledge of the unseen. However, from the limited knowledge we were given about Jannah and its delights by Allah Ta‘ālā and His Messenger (sallAllāhu ‘alayhi wasallam), there are a few points we would like to mention: 1) Indeed, Allah Ta‘ālā has prepared every pleasure in Jannah for the believers. They will enjoy in Jannah whatever they wish and like. They are showered with Allah Ta‘ālā’s blessings and favours. All their wishes are fulfilled and all their requests are granted. Allah Ta‘ālā says: وَلَكُمْ فِيهَا مَا تَشْتَهِي أَنْفُسُكُمْ وَلَكُمْ فِيهَا مَا تَدَّعُونَ Translation: “There you shall have whatever your heart desires, and you shall have whatever you ask for.” To perfect the joy and delight of believers in Jannah, Allah Ta‘ālā brings together the family members of a person, elevating the ranks of the members of a lower grade to the higher grades of their relatives. Allah Ta‘ālā says: وَالَّذِينَ آمَنُوا وَاتَّبَعَتْهُمْ ذُرِّيَّتُهُمْ بِإِيمَانٍ أَلْحَقْنَا بِهِمْ ذُرِّيَّتَهُمْ وَمَا أَلَتْنَاهُمْ مِنْ عَمَلِهِمْ مِنْ شَيْءٍ ٌ Translation: “Those (Mu’mineen) who do good deeds and whose progeny follow them in Imaan, We shall join their progeny with them (in Jannah) without reducing anything from (the rewards of) their (good) deeds.” [ii] In this verse, Allah Ta‘ālā says that He will bless the believing family members by bringing them together in Jannah. This will be done by elevating the rank of the children who fell short of their parents’ status. This is by Allah’s immense generosity and favour. [iii] Allah Ta‘ālā also says: جَنَّاتُ عَدْنٍ يَدْخُلُونَهَا وَمَنْ صَلَحَ مِنْ آبَائِهِمْ وَأَزْوَاجِهِمْ وَذُرِّيَّاتِهِمْ وَالْمَلَائِكَةُ يَدْخُلُونَ عَلَيْهِمْ مِنْ كُلِّ بَابٍ Translation: “Eternal gardens in which they will enter together with all those of their forefathers, spouses, and progeny who are worthy (of entering Jannah because they have Imaan). And the angels shall come to them from every door.” [iv] Allah Ta‘ālā also says: ادْخُلُوا الْجَنَّةَ أَنْتُمْ وَأَزْوَاجُكُمْ تُحْبَرُونَ “Enter the Garden, you and your wives. You will be made glad.” (43: 70-73) 2) A person’s wife in this world will remain his wife in the hereafter. In Jannah, a wife will forever enjoy the company of her husband. She will only have desire for her husband. She will not have any ill-feelings for her husband. Allah Ta‘ālā says: وَنَزَعْنَا مَا فِي صُدُورِهِمْ مِنْ غِلٍّ Translation: “We shall remove any ill-feelings (hatred and animosity towards other Muslims) that may be in their chests.” [v] Although the men in Jannah will have hoors, they will have their wives from this world too. The wives of this world will be far superior to the hoors in Jannah. Consider the following Hadith. Umm Salamah (radiyAllāhu ‘anhā) narrates that she said to Rasūlullāh (sallAllāhu ‘alayhi wasallam), “O Rasūlallāh! Are the women of this world superior or the hoors?” He replied, “The women of this world will have superiority over the hoors just as the outer lining of a garment has superiority over the inner lining.” Umm Salamah (radiyAllāhu ‘anhā) then asked, “O Rasūlallāh! What is the reason for this?” He answered, “Because they performed Salāh, fasted, and worshipped [Allah]. Allah will put light on their faces and silk on their bodies. They will be fair in complexion and will wear green clothing and yellow jewelry. Their incense-burners will be made of pearls and their combs will be of gold. They will say, ‘We are the women who will stay forever and we will never die. We are the women who will always remain in comfort and we will never undergo difficulty. We are the women who will stay and we will never leave. Listen, we are happy women and we will never become sad. Glad tidings to those men for whom we are and who are for us’” [vi] To compare and compete are also among the feminine qualities. A female feels superior when she outmatches her counterpart. This internal instinct of women will be brought out through the beautiful hoors of Jannah. With all the description of the beauties of hoors and their admiration, when a woman from this world will compare and compete with the hoors, the women of this world will outmatch the hoors of Jannah. The description of hoors serves to bring out a sense of superiority in the women of this world. How then will a man prefer a hoor of Jannah over his wife of this world when she will be more beautiful than the hoors. Hence, the subsequent negative feelings in a women of this world does not arise. In fact, she will appreciate the hoors for giving her the opportunity to supersede in competitive beauty and feeling superior. Although only Allah Ta‘ālā knows the full realities, it is our understanding that if a woman did not get married during her worldly life, or if her husband was not from the people of Jannah, and she got admittance into Jannah, then Allah will wed her to one of the believing men in Jannah, as this would also be one of the desires of a woman of Jannah; and all desires of the inhabitants of Jannah will be fulfilled. These women will live with their husbands and they will be just as happy and content as the rest. In conclusion, the desires of each and every inhabitant of Jannah will be fulfilled. The reality is that whatever we imagine in this world as Jannah is not Jannah. Our imaginations cannot perceive what Allah Ta’ala has saved for His believing servants. May Allah Ta‘ālā bless us to be amongst the dwellers of Jannah. Aameen. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. idealwoman.org حم السجدة – 31 [ii] الطور – 21 [iii][تفسير قرطبى ج9 ص59-60 دار الحديث القاهرة ] [تفسير ابن كثير ج4 ص307 قديمي كتب خانه] [iv] الرعد – 23 [v] الحجر – 47 [vi] تفسير ابن كثير ج4 ص372 قديمى كتب خانه

Why am I still not married? by S Farooq I remember the chagrin and inner turmoil of being single and hopeful of marriage, back during my early twenties! Even after almost a decade of marriage, I still vividly remember the constant roller-coaster of emotions that the heart experiences every time a marriage proposal is negotiated. One thinks: Is this the one? Will this family/person be my future spouse/in-laws? Sometimes the marriage negotiation process painstakingly goes on for months, only to culminate in nothing. Up go one’s dreams, hopes and aspirations about the future into thin air! Once again, it is back to square one. Whether a young, single Muslim is a man or woman, if they are ardently desirous of completing half their Deen, the anguish and frustration (including sexual angst) they feel whenever another year of their life passes by without any impending nuptials on the horizon is, contrary to gender-discriminating cultural myths, similarly disconcerting and unnerving. Wherever in the world they might be, as the years pass and the number of fruitless marriage proposals grows, the singleton might begin to feel despondent and worn down by this trial of patience in their quest of completing half their Deen. So what should one tell a young forlorn wannabe bride or groom when they justifiably ask: “Why am I still unmarried?” First of All: There Is Nothing Wrong with You! Although self-confidence is, admittedly, an effective catalyst in finding a spouse, believe me when I tell you that you are not ugly, weird, unattractive, or unworthy of marriage! Allah Ta'ala created the beautiful, unique you, and if He decrees it, someone out there will agree to marry you just the way you are. So do not despair of Allah’s mercy, and remain positive that someone out there will like you and agree to marry you, insha’Allah. Even if you begin to believe that being short, overweight, shy or acne-skinned is a negative thing going against your favor in the marriage market, it is not, because a certain criteria of looks or education is not a pre-requisite for marriage, contrary to what older people might say. Look around you at recently married or even older couples. Are all of them very good looking? Don’t both of the partners seem to have at least one physical defect or blemish? Does everyone you know in your social circle, who recently got married, look like they stepped off a fashion runway? You will find a wide variety of “real couples” who break every stereotype in the book (and please, refrain from looking at celebrity couples and famous people!): husbands who are shorter than their wives; wives who are older than their husbands; cross-cultural marriages that are refreshingly functional; infertile couples who are very happily married; men who are in love with their plus-size or dark-skinned wives; wives who are more educated than their husbands; the list is endless. Never let others make you feel that if you are thirty-something and still not married, it is because either there is something wrong with you, or because Allah Ta'ala has decreed for you to forever remain single. Divine Wisdom behind Perceived “Delays” in Marriage In a world that is increasingly pressurizing everyone, from babies and children to adults, to achieve their personal milestones in life as early as possible, a righteous and single Muslim who is in his or her late twenties, thirties or forties might find themselves the target of unwarranted social stigmatization and cruel speculation: “Why doesn’t anyone take a liking to her? Do you think she intimidates suitors because she is over-educated?” “Do you think there is magic involved? Should we visit a spiritual specialist to find out?” “Maybe he is socially awkward? Or could it be that big bald spot on his head that chases proposals away?” Unless a single person is outright opposed to the idea of marriage for personal reasons, most of us tend to forget the natural law/principle that applies universally: everyone is different, and they come into this world with a different, unique, preordained decree. So, while most young people, Muslim or not, are able to find a spouse and get married in their teens or twenties, there is no unspoken or written rule that lays down a certain prerequisite age-range for the union, beyond which it supposedly becomes impossible for a person to marry, and be written off as “off the market”. Marriage can take place at any age in life, even at 50 or 60, as Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and many of his companions practically demonstrated. It is also a fact that marriage will not happen within the first 2 or 3 decades of life for every one of us. So we should give more leeway and refrain from making blanket, generalized statements about our older, single brothers and sisters. Becoming Mature and Responsible Enough First It is not that Allah Ta'ala is not answering your du’as. Maybe He has already accepted your du’as for marriage with a righteous person, but it will actually happen practically after a few more years, when it is best and easiest for you to enter this sacred union with that person. One of the main reasons why Allah Ta'ala might be delaying your marriage is to reach certain level of physical, intellectual, financial and emotional maturity. He knows everything about you that even you do not know, which is called ‘the Unseen’, or “ghaib” in Arabic. Maybe He knows that were you to marry right now, within three months as you wish to, you will not succeed at married life because you are still too mentally immature, emotionally insecure, or financially unstable. Maybe Allah Ta'ala is actually being kind towards you by delaying your marriage until the time is best – and surely none can know what He knows, for He sees ahead in our hidden futures – so rest assured, it doesn’t matter in the long run if you get married at 25 or 35, as long as it is a happy, productive and loving marriage, to the right person, who becomes your pillar of support in Deen and accelerates your quest for success in the Hereafter. Da’wah Experience and Acquisition of Knowledge There are some blessings and experiences in life that are more time dependent than others to be availed optimally e.g. seeking Islamic knowledge, which is best done in the early years of one’s life, when the brain and memory work better, and a person is more mentally alert and active. Seeking Islamic knowledge can become more difficult after one takes on the responsibilities of marriage on one’s shoulders. This is because your spouse and children have Shar’i rights upon you, because of which you cannot tear yourself away from them for too long in order to devote yourself to seeking and imparting knowledge full-time. Perhaps Allah Ta'ala wants you to seek more knowledge and engage in more active da’wah work before you settle down in married life. These precious years of your youth will never return, and insha’Allah, decades down the road, a more mature and wise you will cherish, like a priceless gem, every year of experience that you acquired in the fields of Islamic knowledge and da’wah before getting married. Perhaps, later on, you might even thank Allah Ta'ala for giving you the free time and opportunity to gain knowledge of Islam before tying the knot, after practically witnessing the numerous benefits of applying that fruitful knowledge to your married life later on. Better than Early Divorce Many young people get married very early, only to get quickly divorced for a variety of reasons, emerging from the whole experience bitter and emotionally hurt, with painful marks on their psyche that take a long time to heal. Many who have a child from such a marriage have to endure acrimonious feuds with their exes over child custody and alimony, and thenceforth face the challenges of being a single parent. They are left with many regrets, many painful memories, and much disdain if not outright hatred towards the institution of marriage in general. It often takes young divorcés several years to heal from their first bad experience, and become mentally ready to get married again. It could be that your being single, which is a painful trial of patience in your eyes, is a blessing in disguise that is acting as a barrier between you and worse calamities and adversities. Perhaps all your earnest du’as for getting married, about which you might be wondering why they are not being answered by God, are actually averting from you graver problems and pitfalls that you are not even aware of. Perhaps your single status is a great blessing, but in a way that only Allah Ta'ala knows, and you know not. So rejoice that you are still single and desirous of getting married; that you are not a bitter divorcé who is sexually frustrated yet adamant about never getting married again! Increase in Humility Do you remember an “alpha” boy or girl in your school or college, who was undeniably good-looking, inexplicably popular, and always in-demand with the opposite gender? Everyone in your class was probably convinced that he or she would be the first to get married, based on the number of proposals that came their way throughout high school and college. I can think of at least two such girls I was acquainted with back in my student days, who were unanimously considered the most desirable for marriage among our lot, and the rest of us girls presumed, sighing with wishful, self-depreciating conviction, that they’d be the first to tie the knot. Yet, that didn’t happen. As the years passed, the bitter disappointment that these ‘alpha’ young women felt about their continuing single status was exacerbated by the fact that many of their peers who were considered apparently less attractive and “worthy” than them got married first, and that too to decent, nice men who kept them happy. The wisdom behind this decree? By the time these good-lookers actually did tie the knot, they were much more humble and less full of themselves. A welcome landing back down on earth! The lesson that we all can learn from this apparent disparity in cause-and-effect. A delay in marriage increases one’s humility, and makes one more down-to-earth and approachable by others. It also ensures that one constantly keeps turning to Allah in earnest du’as - which is something that Allah loves about His slaves! Conclusion: Blessings Received after Hardship Are Cherished More The more one waits for, works hard for, and remains patient for acquiring a blessing, the more one cherishes it after one receives it. The fatally ill person who gets miraculously cured will live cautiously once he becomes healthy. The pauper will spend his money wisely once he becomes wealthy. The child deprived of education will value knowledge more when he grows up. So, too, will the older single person cherish their marriage, spouse and children more, once they get married. And by then these precious blessings will be so much more worth the wait! By Mail from Islaaminfo

The only survivor of a shipwreck was washed up on a small, uninhabited island. He prayed feverishly for Allãh to rescue him, and every day he scanned the horizon for help, but none seemed forthcoming. Exhausted, he eventually managed to build a little hut out of driftwood to protect him from the elements and to store his few possessions. One day, after scavenging for food, he arrived home to find his little hut in flames, the smoke rolling up to the sky. The worst had happened; everything was lost. He was stunned with grief and anger. "Allãh, how could you do this to me!" he cried. Early the next day, he was awakened by the sound of a ship that was approaching the island. It had come to rescue him. "How did you know I was here?" asked the weary man of his rescuers. "We saw your smoke signal," they replied. It is easy to get discouraged when things are going badly, but we should not lose heart, because Allãh is at work in our lives, even in the midst of pain and suffering. (Ar Rasheed) ATTARBIYAH