ummtaalib

Q: Salaamz dear Mufti Saab, I would like to ask you concerning the truth behind the Trinity which the Christians preach and propogate. Could it be that they have mixed up calling Isa, Angel Jibreel And Allaah as one ? or is it something more than that? Its something which has bothered me for quite a while and would appreciate any explanation you have regarding it. May Allaah continue to bless you and your efforts at Darul Uloom and may he continue to shower upon you the bounty of knowledge. Salaamz A: Wa alaikum As Salaam, It was an intentional act of theirs to attribute divinity to Isa (A.S). They knew very well that Isa (A.S) was a prophet who lived amongst the people as a human being. The disciples ate with him, drank with him and walked along with him. Therefore, there was absolutely no doubt in the minds of the early followers of Isa (A.S) that he was only a prophet who could not share divinity with Allah. The early Christians, through the teachings of the Gospel, also knew very well that there was only one God, Allah. Their Gospel taught them that Allah is alone, who has no partners, sons, peers or equals. This also was a deep rooted belief held by the early Christians since it was evident from the life and teachings of their prophet, Isa (A.S). About Jibraeel (A.S), they knew that he was an angel whom they referred to as the Holy Ghost. They also knew that Isa (A.S) was strengthened by angel Jibraeel (A.S) who came from Allah. From their teachings of the Gospel, they were fully aware that Allah, Isa (A.S) and Jibraeel (A.S) were three separate beings and were not one. Hence, it was totally impossible for any Christian (scholar or non scholar) to be mixed up and confused about calling one by the name of the other. It is to be noted that the early disciples and followers of Isa (A.S) believed in him to be only a prophet and Messenger of Allah. The disciples of Isa (A.S) never called Isa (A.S) ‘father’, ‘God’ or ‘son of God’. Instead, they referred to him as ‘teacher’, ‘master’, ‘holy servant’. In this regard, we find that in the book of Matthew, Isa (A.S) is reported to have said to his disciples, ‘But you are not to be called Rabbi, for you have one teacher, and you are all brethren, and call no man your father on earth, for you have one father who is in heaven’ (Matt 23: 8 – 11). Here, it is evident that Isa (A.S) referred to himself as a teacher to the disciples, and he also told them that they had only one father (Lord) who was in heaven. That is, he was not their lord. In another narration in Acts 2:22, it is stated that while addressing a party of the Jews, Peter (the disciple of Isa) said, ‘Men of Israel, hear these words: Jesus of Nazareth, a man attested to you by God with mighty works and wonders and signs which God did through him in your midst, as you yourselves know’. (Acts 2:22). Here, it is evident that Peter, the beloved disciple to Isa (A.S) accepted and considered Isa (A.S) to be ‘a man attested by God’. That is, he was a Messenger of God. In another passage, Peter again said to the Jews about Isa (A.S), ‘The God of Abraham and of Isaac and of Jacob, the God of our fathers, glorified His servant Jesus’ (Acts 3:13). Here, Peter called Isa (A.S) a servant of Allah, not God or the son of God. These along with many other verses of the present day Gospel (Bible) reveal that the disciples regarded Isa (A.S) (Jesus) only as ‘a man’, ‘a Messenger of God’, ‘a servant of God’, ‘a teacher’, ‘a Messiah’. It is also evident that the disciples of Isa (A.S) knew nothing of, and did not believe in the doctrines of Trinity and incarnation of Jesus. From the teachings of Isa (A.S) recorded in the Christian Scriptures, one will see clearly that Isa (A.S) preached and propagated the Oneness of Allah (Tawheed). In this regard, the Gospel of Matthew and Mark record that Jesus said, ‘Hear O Israel, the Lord our God, the Lord is One; and you shall love the Lord, your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind, and with all your strength’. (Mark 12:29; Matt 22:36). From this message, one can see clearly that Isa (A.S) (Jesus) was firm upon the teaching of the Oneness of Allah and that his teaching was the same given by every prophet on the face of the earth. From such teachings and statements of Jesus, one will see that he never preached the doctrines of Trinity and incarnation, nor did he claim to be God or His son. These were fabrications, invented by the latter Christians. In the Gospel of John, Isa (A.S) (Jesus) invokes Allah as follows, ‘And this is eternal life that they may know thee the Only true God, and Jesus Christ whom thou hast sent’. (John 17:2) The doctrines of trinity and incarnation of Jesus were invented by Paul, the real founder of modern day Christianity. Some of Paul’s statements which are in total contrast to the words and message of Jesus are: In his letter to Philippians he (Paul) says: ‘Jesus, who, though he was in the form of God, did not count equality with God a thing to be grasped, but emptied himself, taking the form of a servant, being born in the likeness of men. And being found in human form he humbled himself and became obedient unto death, even death of the cross. Therefore god has highly exalted him…that at the name of Jesus every knee should bow…and every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is lord’. In his letter to the Colossians, he (Paul) says, ‘He (Jesus) is the image of the invisible God, the first born of all creation; for in him all things were created, in heaven and on earth, visible and invisible, whether thrones or dominions or principalities or authorities – all things were created through him and for him’ (Col 1:15-17). The above teachings of Paul brought about the doctrines of Incarnation, Trinity, Crucifixion and Redemption. These were such theories that did not originate from Jesus or from the Gospel which was given to him. Belief in the trinity was an intentional act and there was no mix up. The Catholic doctrine believes Jesus (Isa A.S) is God without ceasing to be what he was. As mentioned by their Scholars ‘Jesus was both man and God at the same time’ (Encyclopedia of Religion and Ethics). On accounted of the fabricated teachings of the Trinity, many groups arose in the beginning centuries of Christianity who tried to reconcile between the differing opinions as to who Jesus was. There were some like Paul of Samosata (the Bishop of Antioch 260-272 A.D), and Lucian (well-known Christian theologian/ascetic) along with a large group and their followers who held that Jesus was a creature and a mere man. He was not a divine being (From Christ to Constantine-James Makinon). In the fourth century Arius, the well-known Christian thinker, fought a great battle against the church of his time and caused an outcry in the Christian world (at that time). James Makinon in his famous work ‘From Christ to Constantine’ mentioned the following about the position held by Arius. He writes: “Arius on the contrary insisted that God alone is eternal and has no equal. That he created the son out of nothing; that the son is, therefore, not eternal.” When Arius propounded his theories, it was widely accepted especially by the Eastern Church. However, the Central Churches of Antioch and Alexandria were ruled by Alexander, Athanasius and the like, who were not willing to accept any solution to the problem which touched the divinity of Jesus or affected the doctrine of Incarnation. Consequently, when emperor Constantine convened the Council of Nicaea in 323 A.D, the theories and views of Arius were not only strongly rejected but Arius himself was sent into Exile. Another sect which emerged in the fifth century AD was the Paulician Sect which held a middle view in regard to Jesus. The sect asserted that Jesus was not God but an Angel. God sent him to the world so that he may reform it. Consequently, he was born in human form from the womb of Virgin Mary. The influence of this sect remained mainly in the region of Asia Minor and Armenia. This Sect did not receive general acceptance, because of the absence of scriptural evidence relating to Jesus being an Angel. In the middle of the fifth century AD, there arose the Nestorian Sect whose leader was Nestorius. He attempted to solve this problem of the church and he presented a new philosophy. He preached that the essence of Jesus consisted of two persons, the one son, the other God. He said that Jesus being god is true and his being a human being is also true. He presented Jesus as two persons and two natures or realties. This theory was condemned by all the churches and Nestorius was imprisoned and exiled. In this way, other Sects came up in the sixth and seventh century, all of whom tried to explain the reality of Jesus. Is he Man? Is he God? Was he an Incarnate? All this questions continued to baffle Christian thinkers and until today, they are still confused about the truth of Jesus. The above details were given to show that the idea of trinity was not a ‘mix-up’ or an error. It was an intentional plan of Paul to remove Christianity from the teachings of true monotheism and to give it a new outlook. The fabrications that were brought by Paul and his indifference to the teachings of Jesus are so well-known in the circle of Christian theologians and scholars that some of them have made this clear in their writings. In this regard, the Encyclopaedia Britannica in describing the condition of Paul states: “One group among the writers represented for example by W. Wrede, who were by no means oppose to Paul, opine that Paul changed Christianity to such an extent that he has become its second founder. In reality, he is the founder of the ‘Church Christianity’ which is totally different from the Christianity brought by Jesus. They say that ‘follow Jesus or follow Paul, but both cannot be followed simultaneously.’ In a similar manner, Von Loewinch (Professor of church history and Christian art) also stated that Paul separated Christianity from Judaism and gave it a distinct form. Hence, he is the creator of those churches which were built in the name of Jesus. It is clear from the above quotations of those Christian scholars that Paul distorted the teachings of Christianity that came from Jesus and made it a new religion. (Izharul Haqq – Maulana Rahmatullah Kiranwi; What is Christianity – Mufti Taqi Usmani). And Allah Knows Best. Mufti Waseem Khan. Date: 19/11/2013 Source

Reasons for following a Madhab Question: assalam u alaikum This message is not to disrespect any imams, it is just to get information. jazakhaallah We as muslims are supposed to follow the Qur’an and Sunnah. What is the reason we follow one of the reknowned imams? Answer: Wa alaikum salaam, Following the Imams is actually following the Kitaab and the Sunnah. It is a grave misunderstanding on the part of some Muslims to think that following an Imam of fiqh is separate or opposed to following the Quran and Sunnah. Just as scholars collected, compiled and documented Ahadith and became Imaams of Hadith like Imaams Bukhari, Muslim, Tirmidhi and others, so too, other scholars became experts in the field of Fiqh and thus, became Imams of Fiqh. Muslims accept the scholars of Ahadith and place reliance on their compilation of Ahadith. They rely on the judgment these scholars have made on these traditions and accept their opinions concerning these. In the same manner, Muslims accept the Imaams of fiqh and place reliance on their Fatwas (religious verdicts). They rely on their explanations regarding the laws contained in the Quran and Sunnah and accept their opinions concerning these. It is a well-established practice that from the time of the Sahabah until today, Muslims have always followed and accepted Islamic scholars for explanations, interpretations and religious verdicts regarding matters of Islam. This act has never been seen as leaving off the Quran and Sunnah to follow a scholar, but has been considered as the ideal way of following the Quran and Sunnah, seeing that the majority of Muslims are uneducated regarding the details of Islamic law. The Sahabah followed those among them who were the most knowledgeable in Islam. The Tabi’een followed the most knowledgeable among them, and the same was done in the period of the Atba’ut Tabi’een (3rd generation Muslims). The act of following Scholars and accepting their verdicts, explainations and interpretations was never seen or considered to be opposing to the act of following the Quran and Sunnah. No one from among the great scholars of the early generations of the Muslims held such opinion. Instead, they all accepted each other and also followed those who were expert scholars in different fields. It is for this reason, we find that the great Mufassireen (exegetes/commentators), Muhadditheen (traditionalists), Fuqaha (jurist experts) of the past, adhered and followed an Imaam of Fiqh. Expert scholars like Hafiz Ibn Katheer, Ibn Jareer At-Tabri, Hafiz Ibn Taimiyah, Hafiz Ibn Al-Qayyim, Hafiz Ibn Hajr, Imam Nawawi, Imaam Suyuti and even compilers of the Ahadith were all followers of an Imaam of Fiqh. Hence, following one of the renowned Imaams of Fiqh is in reality, following the teachings of the Quran and Sunnah. For more information you can read the article on Taqleed which is posted on our website. And Allah knows best. Mufti Waseem Khan. http://www.darululoomtt.net/reasons-madhab/

Question: I’ve a question about Islamic dress code. The broader guidelines by Albalagh article are really helpful . But I’ve often have had debates with people specifically on so called western dress code. I mean jeans/dress pants/pajamas and Bermuda shorts (below knee). My friends tell me these dresses are non-Islamic and they base it on the fact that they are worn more in non-Muslim countries. It so happens that there are 6 billion non Muslims in the world and the 1 billion Muslims also do not wear kurta/kamiz/tope as their common dress. Clearly dress pants/jeans is the natural dress for Muslims living in American continents, Europe/North Asia and Australia who were born there. What is our sufficient proof that these dresses are ‘characteristic’ of ‘Christians, Jews, Hindus, Zen, Buddhists’ etc etc. In short why do we put non-Muslims and ‘followers of other religion’ into one category and consequently label the Muslims living in these continents to be liberals/modernists and not true believers as they do not wear the ‘middle eastern or south Asian’ dress code of shalwar/kurta/kamiz/tope? Can you please clarify it for me why is my dress un-Islamic if i wear business casual dress without show off and my dress is not even tight and revealing? Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. We have gone through the article and concur with the broader guidelines mentioned therein. As for your concern about the modality of the clothing to fulfill these broader guidelines, we assert what Br. Khalid Baig mentions at the end of his article. “Islam has not prescribed a particular dress style, giving us ample room to accommodate our needs, circumstances and tastes. … Any garment that accommodates these principles will be Islamic dress.” If all these guidelines were to be represented by one word, it would be “hayā’ ” (shame and modesty). Islam gives prime importance to hayā’. Hence, whichever style and modality of dressing one adopts, it has to conform with hayā’. Although this representation of an Islamic dress code is very comprehensive, it presents an ambiguity for someone selecting his wardrobe. What is the yard stick for hayā’? Who represents hayā’? etc. As a rule of thumb, the ideals are governed by the actions of Sulahā’ Mashayikh (pious elders) and ‘Ulamā’ of the ummah of Rasulullah salallahu alayhi wasallam. Rasulullah salallahu alayhi wasallam has mentioned, “…Indeed ‘Ulamā’ are the inheritors of the prophets…” (Sunan Tirmidhī) [1] The hadīth clarifies further that the inheritance referred to is the knowledge which is given to ‘Ulamā’. ‘Ilm which is referred here is not mere information, rather a spiritual nūr which descends into the hearts of these ‘ulamā’ through practicing on that knowledge. It is this spirituality that instills the hayā’. In the above hadīth when we are being commanded to follow our ‘ulamā’, we are being shown our role models. When addressing our wardrobe too, we must look up to these pious ‘ulamā’ to learn how they dress themselves. Their practice shows us the practical application of the theories of hayā’ and modesty. With this rule of thumb, it will become easier to understand what the parameters of hayā’ are. In some areas we may find ‘Ulamā’ wearing spacious dress pants and loose shirts, while in other places they may wear long robes. In Pakistan and India most ‘ulamā’ wear the shalwar and kameez while in Middle Eastern countries they wear long jubba/thobes. All these types of clothing are permissible. At the same time we must keep in mind that while the ‘ulamā’ are our role-models, some of us would still opt for less than the ideal. If this is the case then we must avoid such clothing which would associate us with another religion. What is meant here is that if a dress is such that an onlooker associates that modality to some other religion or cult etc. then such dressing will not be permissible. An example would be adorning all black clothes, painting fingernails and lips with black paint like Goths. Similarly, adorning a Buddhist monk’s robe or adorning a Jewish yarmulke. All these items are salient features of other religion, hence impermissible.[2] An item of clothing being associated to another religion may change due to place or time. By way of example, at one point in time in the Indian Subcontinent, pants and shirts were iconic of the British colonists. But in our times, if some person wears a dress pant or shirt, it does not cross an onlooker’s mind that this person is a non-Muslim or holds his allegiance to non Muslims. At the same time, while these dress pants and shirts will be permissible they would not be the ideal. This is because if an onlooker sees someone wearing pants and shirts, then although he will not think of the person as non-Muslim, at the same time he will never think of him to be an ‘Alim or an Ahl Allah. The perception of the common onlooker establishes that the dress is not those of Sulahā’ and ‘Ulamā’. Hazrat Maulāna Ashraf Ali Thanvi rahimahullah mentions that this concept of Tashabbuh (emulating someone else) is very powerful and can be easily demonstrated. He then gives an example of an ‘Alim. He says that if tashabbuh does not hold much merit, then let the ‘Alim go home and adorn himself with his wife’s clothing, wear some lipstick, some makeup foundation and beautify himself with some jewellery and return to the pulpit to give a sermon. Maulana Thanvi rahimahullah asserts that not a single congregation that has an ounce of hayā’ would make him their Imam and a source of religious discourse. This just shows that the perception of the onlooker plays great deal on the spirituality and status of the person. The ‘Alim who is now dressed like a woman is still a man but no one wishes to engage with him.[3] Another contemporary example would be our current cultures and norms. The emerging trends among the teens are bizarre to say the least. We have people wearing torn jeans, dropped down to shows one’s boxers, topped with a baggy t-shirt with a symbol of some heavy metal musical band on it and covering the head with a bandana. While technically one could find millions of people dressed like this, imagine if you go for your next Jummah Salah and your Imam ascends his pulpit dressed like above. Would we be able to justify his outlook saying that millions of Muslims and billion others non-Muslims are dressing like that? Of course we would not. There is a certain perception we attached to these modalities. It is that perception which will decide whether these cloths are outright impermissible, undesirable, permissible or desirable. On the flip side, emulating the Sulahā’ and pious people will attain the barakah from Allah. Maulana Thanvi rahimahullah mentions that emulating the Sulahā’, whether in actions or in dressing, is desirable according to the Ahl Allah, even if one does so out of riyā’. The rational given by Maulana rahimahullah is that the action shows an inherent azmat (honor) for the actions of the Sulahā’ and ‘Ulamā’. So it is hopeful that such a person will be counted among the hadīth of Rasulullah salallahu alayhi wasallam that, “He who emulates a group of people will be from among them”.[4] The same guidelines will apply to women as well. It should be kept in mind that this whole discussion is on those clothes which are permissible. If any clothing of a woman violates the awrah, it will not be permissible. At the same time, the hallmark of hayā’ indicates that a woman’s clothing is embodiment of decency and not a magnet for attraction. Any form of adornment which attracts undue attention, whether through application of eye liner or through beautification of ones abaya/jalabiya, will be impermissible. If we cannot expect our role models in a certain dress, then we can reflect on our own dressing to find the optimum dress code for ourselves. Insha’Allah, with pure intention of pleasing only Allah Ta‘ala we should choose a clothing style that will invite the divine mercy and pleasure of Allah. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Mawlana Faisal bin Abdul Hameed, Student Darul Iftaa Montréal, Canada Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. [1] ”… إن العلماء ورثة الأنبياء، إن الأنبياء لم يورثوا دينارا ولا درهما إنما ورثوا العلم، فمن أخذ به أخذ بحظ وافر…”( سنن الترمذي ت شاكر (5/ 49) – شركة مكتبة ومطبعة مصطفى البابي الحلبي) [2] عَنِ ابْنِ عُمَرَ، قَالَ: قَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ: «مَنْ تَشَبَّهَ بِقَوْمٍ فَهُوَ مِنْهُمْ» (سنن أبي داود 4/ 44 المكتبة العصرية) [3] Malfuzāt Hakīmul Ummah Vol. 26 Pg 136. [4] Ibid. Source

By Khalid Baig What would you think of a home that provided no shelter and no privacy? What would you think of a meal that provided no nourishment and no energy? It does not take much to realize that if one were in the business of selling any of these he would go bankrupt very quickly. Yet, amazingly the rules seem to be different when it comes to another basic need: clothing, especially women's clothing. Every year fashion centers in Europe and America come up with the latest designs. And what have they designed? Another way of not covering the body; the dress equivalent of the home that provides no shelter and no privacy. One might ask, if a person did not want to cover themselves why would they buy anything, least of all expensive fashions, to achieve that? If we think about it, we may see the tension between two forces. All human beings (except for the handful of deviants who call themselves naturalists) have an inborn sense of shame. People of all religions agree on the need to cover themselves in public. Yet we also find a force that promotes nudity. Large segments of humanity are caught between two impulses: to cover or not to cover. Our clothing designs reflect different levels of compromise between these opposing forces. Why? What is going on? Science cannot answer the question. It cannot trace the origins of forces that take place deep in our mind. In addition, most of the scientific establishment is still dominated by the followers of Mr. Darwin and Darwinism is a system of belief not science. Their beliefs keep them from dealing honestly with a simple fact: while all other animals have a skin that provides them protection against the elements, human beings don't. Monkeys can live without clothing, human beings cannot. The Qur'an answers the question. Our bodies did not develop our skin--- so thin and fur free that it requires external covering for protection---because of some unexplained evolutionary accident. Our Creator designed it this way so we will always need clothing. He also put in us the sense of shame that forces us to cover ourselves. On the other hand, the first act of Satan was to cause Adam and Eve to expose themselves: "So by deceit he brought about their fall: when they tasted of the tree, their shameful parts became manifest to them, and they began to sew together the leaves of the Garden over their bodies." [Al-A'raf 7:22]. This is the source of the tension we see. Two opposing forces. Good and evil. With that background we can understand the importance of clothing. "Oh Children of Adam! We have bestowed raiment upon you to cover your shame as well as to be an adornment to you. But the raiment of righteousness---that is the best." [Al-A'raf 7:26]. The address here is to all humanity, emphasizing thereby the universal human need to cover ourselves properly. The Qur'an then warns that Satan was not finished after his first attempt: "Oh Children of Adam! Let not Satan seduce you in the same manner as he got your parents out of the Garden, stripping them of their raiment, to expose their shame." [Al-A'raf 7:27]. Once we realize the nature of the dress issue, it is natural that we should turn to our Creator to seek guidance for the proper dress code. Qur'an and Sunnah have provided ample guidance on the subject which can be summarized in four essential principles. Our dress must cover our body adequately. Again we cannot determine what is adequate coverage on our own, as any witness to the misery of those who have tried it can readily ascertain. Shar'iah, as always, takes us out of this misery by defining it for us. For men, it is the middle part of the body from navel to knee. For women, it is the entire body except hands and face. These parts must never be exposed to any other person (except in case of genuine need e.g. medical treatment). In addition, the cloth must be neither see-through nor tight fitting. Our dress should provide adornment. It should provide for decent appearance. Our appearance should not be an eyesore for decent human beings. For men, this extends the coverage requirements to include most of the body. For women, the essential requirement is that their dress should identify them as respectable ladies who would be honored not harassed. Additionally, hijab rules aim at protecting them from the gaze of other men. Our dress should establish our Islamic identity. At the least it should not identify us as followers of another religion. But, additionally it should positively identify us as Muslims. The design of our dress must avoid three deadly sins: show off, arrogance, and self indulgence. These are very serious diseases of the heart in their own right that we must avoid at all times. Our garments provide an easy opportunity to nurture them. Hence the need to be extra cautious. One Hadith states "Eat what you feel like and wear what you feel like. But avoid two things: extravagance and arrogance." [bukhari]. At the risk of stating the obvious one should be reminded that this Hadith establishes an overriding concern that limits our choices within the realm of what is considered halal. It does not do away with the distinction between halal and haram. As one implication of this general requirement, men are also required not to wear their lower garments below the ankle. (Many well-meaning Muslims today have been persuaded that this is a petty issue. This misgiving can be put to rest in a hurry if we just refer to the Hadith of Jabir bin Sulaym, Radi-Allahu anhu, in Abu Dawood. He asked the Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam for some advice when leaving him after his very first meeting. Of the six pieces of advice given him one was: "Never let your lower garment go below the ankles because that is arrogance. And Allah does not like arrogance." Another was "Never belittle a good deed.") Islam has not prescribed a particular dress style, giving us ample room to accommodate our needs, circumstances and tastes. However, these principles are for everyone and forever. Any garment that accommodates these principles will be Islamic dress. This is Islamic formula to dress for success. Eternal success. Al-Balagh

How many times did you hear this from an advertisement “Escape to Bahamas” or “Escape To Hawaii” notice the word “ESCAPE”, when does someone “escapes” from something? Its only when someone is in prison and they want to get freedom. Most non -Muslims fall for the “escape” commercial because the life they are leading is essentially a glorified prison, it might be another day of working job you hate or another day of dealing with a failing marriage or another day of taking care of children who seem entirely ungrateful for you, there seem to be a lot to escape from and many commercials for vocations provide that very escape. But When you look into what our creator is calling us towards and how it frees us from any needs of this world, you will realize the only way in which someone can live happy life is doing what their creator has prescribed for them. “Whoever does righteousness, whether male or female, while he is a believer – We will surely cause him to live a good life, and We will surely give them their reward [in the Hereafter] according to the best of what they used to do.” 16:97 Ibn Qayyim (rahimahu Allah) put it eloquently when he said “When a person spends his entire day with no other concern but Allah alone, Allah, may He be glorified, will take care of all his needs and take care of all that is worrying him; He will empty his heart so that it will be filled only with love for Him, free his tongue so that it will speak only in remembrance of Him (dhikr) and cause all his faculties to work only in obedience to Him. But if a person spends his entire day with no other concern but this world, Allah will make him bear its distress, anxiety and pain; He will leave him to sort himself out, and cause his heart to be distracted from the love of Allah towards the love of some created being, cause his tongue to speak only in remembering people instead of remembering Allah, and cause him to use his talents and energy in obeying and serving them.” idealwoman.org

إِنَّ الدِّينَ عِنْدَ اللَّهِ الْإِسْلَامُ Indeed, the (true) religion in the sight of Allah is Islam. [surah Aal 'Imran, 18] Islam, our religion and our way of life. A religion selected by Allah the Almighty for the ummah of our beloved Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wa sallam); a guide for us in this dunya and a means of salvation in the akhirah (hereafter). The closer you come towards it, the clearer you see its light. As youth of this ummah, we must hold on to this light of Islam. To leave this world with Iman is our ultimate goal. This deen is our legacy, it is what we live for. Our means of success lies within Islam. To live it, to breathe it, to practice it and preach it. To give da’wah in its cause while adopting the way of those who strived in its path. It is the way of our Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wa sallam) and the way of his Sahabah (may Allah have mercy on them) and the Salaf (pious predecessors). So listen oh youth and hear me out. Hold on to these role models and let them be you guiding light. They are the ones who taught us Islam and they are the ones who showed us wrong from right. Islam also teaches us kindness and affection. It creates love between us as long as we take heed from its lessons; to give preference to others and love for them what you love for yourself; to respect our elders and to show mercy to our youngsters. To look for the best in people and avoid looking for their faults; to mind our own business and let our hearts remain pure and clean. This is our deen, our religion and our Islam. Allah has sent us to a world that is full with tests and trials, so do not rejoice at the shortcomings of others, lest Allah burden you with the same. Live with true harmony and do not let these differences divide us. For the barakah (blessings) of Allah remains with those who stick together. As Muslims we believe that everything is from Allah. We accept all that is from him in times of happiness and despair. So listen oh youth and heed my advice. Whatever difficulty you face, it is a test from Allah. Observe patience and perseverance, and engage yourself in Dhikr (remembrance of Allah); always remain positive and pin your hopes in Allah. Allah has also commanded us to fulfill our Islamic responsibilities. We must be steadfast in our prayers and perform all the the faraidh (compulsory acts), but we must never forget to take advantage of the sunnahs and nawafils. So do the best that you can and never let yourself waver in performing good deeds and striving to become better. As our duty to Islam we must seek the knowledge of this deen and perfect it through practice. For knowledge is mere facts whereas wisdom comes from practice. Even if you face ridicule and mockery for practicing on this deen, simply ignore it and let it not lower your self esteem. How we live our lives today will ultimately affect our akhirah, so perform good deeds and enjoin others to do the same. But never forget to always fix your niyyah (intention) as deeds are judged according to our intentions. You must always remember that you are from the ummah of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wa sallam). You are precious to Allah and are the flag bearers of his deen. So let no one make you feel that you have no worth, for in Allah’s eyes you are the best on this Earth. There is an ancient saying that goes :“When a blade of grass is cut, the whole universe quivers.” So listen oh youth, you are the blades of grass for Islam. You are the ummah of our prophet and the bearers of his message. So shine forth with your Iman, value yourself and your Islam. Let us practice this deen and make our Rasulullah (sallallahi alaihi wa sallam) proud! idealwoman.org

Any arguments sister Mariam...even to do with the dunya, we should avoid arguments.

People who drank 2 or more a day were more likely to have protein in their urine, a sign of trouble SATURDAY, Nov. 9 (HealthDay News) -- If you have a penchant for drinking sugary sodas, you might be raising your risk for kidney disease, new research suggests. Employees at a university in Japan who consumed more than two sodas a day were more likely to have protein in their urine when compared to those who had fewer or no sodas on a daily basis. Protein in the urine is considered an early, but reversible, marker of kidney damage. The new study showed an association between drinking soda and an increased risk of kidney damage, but it didn't necessarily prove that soda is the culprit. The study included more than 12,000 university employees who underwent their annual check-ups at their health center. As part of the exam, their urine was tested for evidence of protein. Nearly 11 percent of employees who said they drank two or more soft drinks per day had protein in their urine during three years of follow-up. In contrast, 8.4 percent of those who did not any drink soda and roughly 9 percent of those who drank about one can a day tested positive for protein in their urine. A related study in rats found that moderate consumption of a sugar called fructose increases the kidney's sensitivity to a protein that regulates salt balance. According to the Case Western Reserve University researchers, this leads to increased salt reabsorption by cells in the kidneys, which might explain why soda consumption has been linked to diabetes, obesity, kidney failure and high blood pressure. Both studies were scheduled for presentation Saturday at the annual meeting of the American Society of Nephrology, in Atlanta. Research presented at meetings typically is considered preliminary until published in a peer-reviewed medical journal. Experts said the new findings add to a growing body of evidence on the unhealthy side effects of drinking too much soda. Protein in the urine may be a marker for more than just kidney disease, said Dr. Orlando Gutierrez, a kidney specialist at the University of Alabama at Birmingham. "We now understand that protein in the urine may be a really early marker for heart disease, stroke and heart failure," he said. "We can assume that this is a healthy population, so I think the results are relative to healthier people, not just those with kidney disease," Gutierrez said. Dr. Anil Agarwal, a kidney specialist at Ohio State University, agreed. "The new study suggests that even individuals with normal kidney function are at risk for damage if they drink too much soda," he said. And soft drinks sweetened with high-fructose corn syrup may be the most dangerous. "Fructose is sweeter than glucose, and doesn't cause feelings of satiety," he said. It may cause damage via a different pathway than glucose. Instead of increasing blood-sugar levels, fructose may affect the kidneys, he said. "There is no safe amount of soda," Agarwal said. "If you look at the recommended amounts of sugar we can safely consume every day, one can of soda exceeds the maximum level." American Heart Association guidelines state that the recommended daily sugar intake is 9 teaspoons for adult men, 5 teaspoons for adult women and 3 teaspoons for children. A 12-ounce can of non-diet soda has about 7 teaspoons of sugar, Agarwal said. Dr. Jaime Uribarri, a kidney specialist at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Medical Center in New York City, said the new findings "reaffirm an association between soda and health problems." He added that diet soda also can cause health problems. The bottom line? "Drink water instead of soda," Uribarri said. SOURCES: Orlando Gutierrez, M.D., nephrologist, University of Alabama at Birmingham; Anil Agarwal, M.D., nephrologist, Ohio State University, Columbus; Jaime Uribarri, M.D., professor, medicine and nephrology, Icahn School of Medicine, Mount Sinai Medical Center, New York City; Nov. 9, 2013, presentations, American Society of Nephrology annual meeting, Atlanta www.nlm.nih.gov/medlineplus/news/fullstory_142376.html duas.. wa Assalam. muftisays

Part 5 (Final part) The Couches of the People of Paradise The palaces of Paradise have been prepared, and in their gardens are places to sit and recline, beautiful couches of delightful colours and high beds whose interiors are lined with silk brocade, let alone how magnificent their outward appearance must be. There are cushions and splendid carpets laid out in the most delightful fashion. Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) says: "Therein will be thrones raised high, And cups set at hand, and cushions set in rows, and rich carpets " [88:13-16] "They will recline on thrones arranged in ranks. And We shall marry them to Houris with wide lovely eyes." [52:20] "A multitude of those will be from the first generations and a few of those will be from the later time . on thrones woven with gold and precious stones,reclining thereon, face to face." [56:13-16] This reclining on those thrones and couches will be one of the luxuries that the people of Paradise will enjoy when they gather together, as Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) says, "And we shall remove from their breasts any lurking sense of injury; brothers facing each other on thrones ." [15:47] "Reclining on green cushions and rich beautiful mattresses" [55:76} "Reclining upon the couches lined with silk brocade" [55:54] The Market of the People of Paradise Muslim reported from Anas ibn Maalik that the Messenger of Allaah (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wa Salaam) said; "In Paradise there is a market to which the people will come every Friday, then a wind will come from the north and blow on their faces, and clothes, and they will increase in beauty. Then they will return to their wives, who will also have increased in beauty. Their wives will say to them, "By Allaah, you increased in beauty after you left us." And they will say, "And you too, by Allaah, you have increased in beauty since you left us." [saheeh Muslim, Kitaab al-Jannah, Baab fi Sooq al-Jannah, 4/2178, no. 2833] an-Nawawi commented on this hadith, "What is meant by a market is a gathering place where the people will come together, just as they gather in marketplaces in this world. Gathering together every Friday means that they will meet once a week, or what approximates to once a week; there will be no real weeks there, as there will be no sun or moon or days. The wind of Paradise was described specifically as being the north winds, because for the Arabs this is the wind that brings rain, coming from the direction of Syria, so they always hoped for a wind coming from the north. In the hadith this wind is called al-Mutheerah, i.e. something that carries things, because it will blow the sand or dust of Paradise into their faces, which is musk." [sharh an-Nawawi ala Muslim, 17/170] The Gatherings and Conversations of the People of Paradise The people of Paradise will visit one another, in delightful gatherings where they will remember their lives in this world and how Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) has blessed them by admitting them to Paradise. Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) described the gatherings of the people of Paradise: "And We shall remove from their breasts any lurking sense of injury, brothers, facing each other on thrones ." [15:47] Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) has also described some of the kinds of conversation that will take place in their gatherings: "And some of them draw near to others, questioning, saying, "Aforetime we were afraid with our families , but Allaah has been gracious to us, and has saved us from the torment of the Fire. Verily, we used to invoke Him before. Verily He is Al-Barr, the All-Merciful." [52:25-28] The Wives of the People of Paradise (i) The Wife Of The Believer In This World Will Be His Wife In The Hereafter If She Is Righteous "Gardens of 'Adn, which they shall enter, and those who act righteously from among their fathers, and their wives and their offspring..." [13:23] "They and their wives will be in pleasant shade, reclining on thrones." [36:56] "Enter Paradise, you and your wives, in happiness" [43:70] (ii) al-Hoor al-'Eeyn Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) will marry the believers in Paradise to beautiful women who were not their wives in this world, as Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) says: "So and We shall marry them to Houris with wide lovely eyes." [44:54] al-Hoor is the plural of Hooraa', which is a woman, the white parts of her eyes intensely white, and the black is intensely black. al-'Eeyn is the plural fo 'Aynaa, which is the woman whose eyes are wide. The Qur'aan describes al-Hoor al-'Eeyn as being firm and full-breasted: "Verily, for al-Muttaqoon, there will be a success; gardens and grapeyards and young full-breasted maidens of equal age." [78:31-33] Al-Hoor al-'Eeyn are creatures that Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) has made especially for Paradise, and has made them virgins: "Verily, We have created of special creation, and made them virgin-pure , beloved , equal in age." [56:35-37] The fact that they are virgins means that no-one has ever married them before: "...whom no man or jinn has touched before them." [55:56] This refutes the idea that the wives that Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) will create for them in Paradise will be their wives from this life, made young again after old age had overtaken them. That idea if correct in that Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) will admit the believing women to Paradise with their youth restored but they are not al-Hoor al-'Eeyn whom Allaah created in Paradise. The Qur'an also speaks of the beauty of the women of al-Jannah: "And Houris with wide lovely eyes , Like unto preserved pearls." [56:22-23] Maknoon ["preserved"] means hidden or protected, something whose colour is not changed by exposure to sunlight or by being tampered with. Elsewhere, Allaah likens them to rubies and coral, two beautiful precious stones: "In them will be restraining their glances, whom no man or jinn has touched before them, Then which of the favours of your Rabb will you deny? Like unto rubies and coral." [55:56-58] al-Hoor are also described as restraining their gaze upon their husbands i.e. they restrict their gaze and don't let their eyes wander to others. Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) has stated that they are very beautiful, and it is sufficient to know that Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) said: "In them will be fair good and beautiful; then which of the favours of your Rabb will you deny? Companions restrained in pavilions" [55:70-72] Look at this beauty that the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wa Salaam) described! Can you find any comparison to it in the world that you know?! : "If one of the women of Paradise were to look at the people of this world, everything in between them would be lit up and filled with her fragrance. The veil on her head is better than this world and everything in it." [al-Bukhaari, in as-Saheeh, Kitaab al-Jihaad, Baab wa Zawwajnahum bi Hoor-'Eeyn. Fath al-Baari, 6/15] Earning The Blessings Of Paradise Does Not Mean One Has To Forego The Pleasures Of This World Monks and ascetics, and many of the believers of this ummah think that the blessings of the hereafter cannot be attained without giving up the good things and pleasures of this world. So you see them punishing themselves and making life hard for themselves with non-stop fasting and praying at night. Some of them even deny themselves good food, drink and clothing and reject work and marriage. All of this is wrong, for Allaah has created the good things of this world for the believers, and He denounces those who forbid the beautiful things that Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) has created for His slaves: "Say: "Who has forbidden the adornment with clothes given by Allah, which He has produced for His slaves, and at-Tayyibaat of food?" Say: "They are in the life of this world, for those who believe, exclusively for them on the Day of Resurrection ." [7:32] This world is only condemned when it distracts the believer from the Hereafter, but if he treats it as a means of achieving success in the aakhirah then its pleasures need not be spurned, as some people think. The Conclusion Of Their Prayer Will Be Al-Hamdulillaahi Rabbil-Aalameen The believers will pass through the turmoil of the Day of Judgement, then they will cross as-Siraat and will witness its horrors. Then Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) will admit them to gardens of delight in Paradise, after removing all grief and sorrow from their hearts. They will see the wonders that Allaah has prepared for them in Paradise and they will raise their voices in praise and glorification of Allaah because He will have lifted their sorrow, fulfilled His promise to them, and caused them to inherit Paradise: "And they will say, "All praise and thanks be to Allaah, Who has removed from us grief. For Our Rabb is indeed Oft-Forgiving, Most Ready to appreciate Who out of His Grace, has lodged us in a home that will last forever, there, toil will not touch us, nor will weariness touch us" [35:34-35] "And they will say, "All the praises and thanks be to Allaah Who Has fulfilled His promise to us and has made us inherit land. We can dwell in Paradise where we will; how excellent a reward for the workers!" And you will see the angels surrounding the Throne from all around, glorifying the praises of their Rabb. And they will be judged with truth, and it will be said, "All the praises and thanks be to Allaah, the Rabb of the Aalameen" [39:74-75] And the conclusion of their prayer will be al-Hamdulillaahi Rabbil Aalameen: "Their prayer will be Glory to You, O Allaah! and their greeting therein will be Peace, and the conclusion of their prayer will be, "Praise be to Allaah, Lord of the Worlds" [10:10] www.islaaminfo.co.za

Sister Acacia, Jazaakillah for the time you have taken and for the very very useful suggestions...and aameeen! May Allah ta'ala may us all a part of the service of His Deen. Definitely will discuss everything in shura...as for halalified videos, I've already suggested it however I think brother arshad explained some technical stuff which is over my head I love your input : )

I know you meant muftisays...bro arshad said "portal" http://www.islamicteachings.org/forum/portal/ can you check it out if its the same thing Also bro arshad says it should show latest topics in main area correctly.

I found it too funny...but its deadly serious when you think about it! I wonder just how many people around the globe rely on the internet for their deen and that is why inshaAllah we must use the tools at hand and do as much as we can to propagate correct teachings from authentic sources

Make sure you go to the correct sources for your Deen!!

Bringing Concentration in Salaah by Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (rahmatullah alayh) A common complaint of many who seek reformation, is their lack of concentration in Salaah, and finding themselves wanting in the spirit of Salaah. They write or ask for some prescription to bring in that spirit and that love of Allah Ta’ala through Salaah. The following guidelines will, Insha-Allah, assist in improving the quality of one’s Salaah : Men should try and reach the Musjid before the Azaan, so that they may with etiquette and ease, read the Sunnat Salaah – and this should take them about 5 minutes. In the remaining few minutes before the Fardh, make Istighfaar, Taubah, or Zikrullah, or think of the Aakhirah (the Hereafter) and accountability and presentation of one’s deeds in the Court of Allah Ta’ala. Reflect over one’s life : What if my death has to come now ? …Try and cut off from the business and worldly activities as much as possible through this little meditation and Zikr. Now comes the Fardh Salaah : Insha-Allah, by this time, much of one’s heart will be in that Salaah. Insha-Allah, with a little effort and perseverance, there will be full attention and concentration. Ladies should try and read Salaah in its early time, thus giving themselves the opportunity of making preparation for Salaah, without any haste. They too should make a little zikr before commencing with Salaah, to get into the right frame of mind. Moreover, if we give priority status to fulfilling the Rights of Allah Ta’ala, then He will assist us in fulfilling our tasks. He will grant Barakah in time so that our undertakings are completed, Insha-Allah. Condition the mind; address yourself – I am standing before the King of Kings. SubhanAllah. …I have been chosen, from millions, to converse with ‘Rabbul ‘Aalameen’ and I am being afforded the greatest honour and privilege (above millions of others), to make sujood to Allah Ta’ala… to be nearest to Allah Ta’ala. [ …If we could truly fathom the greatness of the gift, this ultimate honour, this good fortune – we would never want to leave the position of sujood.] And whilst reading the Qur`aan Sharif in Salaah (and even outside Salaah) then think : This is the Kalaam (speech) of my Allah – of my Beloved. By contemplating the meaning of the verses that you are reading, think : I am listening to the speech of Allah Ta’ala. And since you are reading His Speech, He is also listening to you … Therefore learn the meaning of the Surahs we normally recite in Salaah. It will not take long to do so, if a little is learnt every day. And think : In this Salaah, in this Tilawat, in this Zikr, in this Hamd – I have the special attention of Allah Ta’ala. I have exclusive attention because this is my ‘Me`raj’; this is my conversation and communication with the Master of the Worlds. ….What a compounded bounty – SubhanAllah : So many gifts in the gift packaged as Salaah. How can any sane thinking Muslim ever refuse such a gift ? In contemplating this, we will experience the beauty and sweetness and pleasure of Salaah … we will understand the Hadith in which Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) says that the coolness of his eyes is in Salaah. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the reality.

Futile Arguments by Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (rahmatullah alayh) It seems as if everyone has something to argue about these days. Arguing is a waste of precious time and a diversion of shaytaan, from carrying out good deeds or rendering services to Deen. We do not have to worry about arguing with every other person. We have got no time to argue with people. Only that person will go around arguing with people who has got the time. …He has got the time to waste, therefore he will go around arguing. One person went to the barber and said : “I have got black and white hair. So just take out all the white hair.” The barber shaved off all his hair, placed it in front of the man and said: “Now you can pick out all the white strands. I do not have the time for that.” The person whose heart is connected with Allah Ta’ala does not have the time for arguments, for fights, for unnecessary quarrels and for wasting time over useless, futile activities. “That person whose eye is on where the orders are coming, will not waste his time going and fighting with everybody.” One person wrote a lengthy letter to me. He mentioned, amongst other things: “Maulana, you and all your blind followers who attend your programmes…” – have got this weakness, this weakness, this weakness.” I gave the reply: “JazakAllah for informing us of some of our weaknesses. There are many more which Allah Ta’ala has concealed. I make Shukr to Allah Ta’ala that He did not reveal all our weaknesses. Please do keep me informed when you notice more weaknesses, and make Dua that Allah Ta’ala gives us Hidayat.” That is all! Finished! …What am I going to start arguing about? Futile arguing creates restlessness and darkness in the heart. It opens the door to misguidance. It leads a person away from Siratul Mustaqeem (the straight path). Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) cautioned us: “No people will go astray after having being guided except that they become argumentative.”[1] Thus, we should not waste time over pettiness. We do not have the time for that. There will always be enemies; there will always be jealousy; there will always be malice. …There will be those who cannot see or stomach the progress of certain people and who will want to create unnecessary trouble and impede the person’s progress. This will happen. It happened in the time of Rasullullah (Sallallaahu alayhi wassallam) – and will continue. So we should be careful not to get caught up with these type of wasteful issues. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “I guarantee a house in the outskirts of Paradise to the one who forsakes argument even when he is in the right.’[2] If we keep before us this Hadeeth and have Yaqeen (conviction) on the words of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam), many arguments would not even surface. [1] Tirmidhi [2] Abu Dawood

Conqueror of Hearts This is a wonderful little book on Shaykh Zulfiqar Ahmad's (ds) travels in Turkey. Beautifully compiled by Mustafa Kamal and enhanced with relevant stories, photos, and poetry. We are taken on a 5 day journey with Hazrat and his company. ... is a travelogue which details Shaykh Zulfiqar Ahmad Naqshbandi-Mujaddidi (db)'s travels in Turkey. Included within are Hazrat's observations on the causes of the current predicament of the Ummah, made while touring Istanbul, the land opened for Islam by the great Muslim conqueror Sultan Muhammad al-Fateh. Also contained herein are invaluable insights for those traveling the spiritual path, shared in Konya, the city of one of the greatest lovers of Allah (Ta'aala), Maulana Jalaluddin Rumi Scanned Copy Here

Turkey is a popular choice for a holiday amongst Muslims Get the most out of your holiday to Turkey by reading the travel accounts below. The account by Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat (Hafizahullah) covers various popular destinations and encourage travellers to benefit spiritually as well as physically from their holidays. 01Reflections-Turkey.pdf 02Reflections-Turkey.pdf Islamic Da'wah Academy

I know a brelwi brother from my family and he said to me your aquidah is wrong. He said you have to believe that you could ask dua from the awliya( that pasted away ) , the prophet (SAW) is haazir naazir and alimul ghayb. They also read something called fatiha on food. if you know to know what that is is its makind dua in front of food on a special day like a pious person death day and they read surah fatiha then ikhlaas falaq and naas and then they say to send the reward to that person. i want to know if this is allowed and also can the other stuff i mentioned. Can you please give me a full detailed fatwa on this and also can you tell me any kitabs Answer In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful Assalaamu `alaykum waRahmatullahi Wabarakatuh Your query has four parts to it: Can one ask the Awliya to grant ones Duas? It is not permissible to ask the Awliya to fulfill ones Duas. However, it is permissible for one to ask Allah (Subhanah WaTa’ala) through the Wasila of the Awliya. This is done by asking Allah (Subhanah WaTa’ala) to fulfill ones such and such Dua through the love that one has for the Awliya. Thus, one is not directly asking the Awliya, rather he is, in essence, asking from Allah (Subhanah WaTa’ala) who alone is capable of fulfilling Duas. Is the Prophet (SalAllahu Alahi Wasalaam) Hazir Nazir? It is incorrect to believe that the Prophet (SalAllahu Alahi Wasalaam) has the ability to be present everywhere. Rather, Allah (Subhanah WaTa’ala) is the only One who has the ability to witness all things at one time. To believe the Prophet (SalAllahu Alahi Wassalaam) is Hazir Nazir is completely disrespectful to Allah (Subhanah WaTa’ala) and the Prophet (SaAllahu Alahi Wassalaam). For example, some have the belief that the Prophet (SalAllahu Alahi Wassalaam) actually attends gatherings where Durood is recited upon him Rather, the correct belief is that the Prophet (SalAllahu Alahi Wassalaam) is informed of our actions and Salaams are conveyed to him through angels, not that he actually comes to the gatherings. It is mentioned in Hadith by the Prophet (SalAllahu Alahi Wassalaam) حدثنا محمد بن يوسف ثنا سفيان عن عبد الله بن السائب عن زاذان عن عبد الله بن مسعود قال قال قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم : ان لله ملائكة سياحين في الأرض يبلغوني عن أمتي السلام (سنن الدارمي 2/409؛ عربي) The Prophet (SalAllahu Alahi Wassalaam) said: “Verily, Allah has angels that travel the Earth and convey my Ummah’s salutations to me” (al-Darami) عن ابن مسعود أيضا عن النبي صلى الله عليه وآله وسلم قال: (حياتي خير لكم تحدثون ويحدث لكم ووفاتي خير لكم تعرض علي أعمالكم فما رأيت من خير حمدت الله وما رأيت من شر استغفرت الله لكم) رواه البزار بإسناد جوده الحافظ العراقي وصححه الحافظ الهيثمي والجلال السيوطي والشهاب القسطلاني (الأحاديث المنتقاة، ص 91؛ جوامع الكلم) The Prophet (SalAllahu Alahi Wassalaam) said: “My life is good for you [since] you commit acts and its verdicts are given to you [through me]. And my death is [also] good for you [since] your deeds are presented to me. I praise Allāh for the good I see and I ask Him for your forgiveness for the evil I see” (al-Ahādīth al-Muntaqāh) These two Ahadith clearly show that our Salaams and actions are presented to the Prophet (SalAllahu Alahi Wassalaam) through angels, not that he actually comes to the gatherings. Therefore, it will be incorrect to believe that the Prophet (SalAllahu Alahi Wassalaam) is Hazir Nazir. Is the Prophet (SaAllahu Alahi Wassalaam) Alim ul-Ghayb? The Prophet (SalAllahu Alahi Wassalaam) was given knowledge of many things of the unseen, yet his knowledge was still limited. The ability to have complete knowledge of everything is the characteristic of Allah (Subhanah WaTa’ala) alone and no one else. This is proven through many Ayaat of the Quran a few of them are as follows: قُل لاَّ يَعْلَمُ مَن فِي السَّمَاوَاتِ وَالأَرْضِ الْغَيْبَ إِلاَّ اللَّهُ (النمل: 65) Say: “None in the Heavens and the earth knows the Ghayb (Unseen) except Allah” (Quran 27: 65) قُل لاَّ أَقُولُ لَكُمْ عِندِي خَزَآئِنُ اللَّهِ وَلا أَعْلَمُ الْغَيْبَ(الانعام: 50) Say (O Muhammad SalAllahu Alahi Wassalam): I do not tell that with me are the treasures of Allah, nor (that) I know the Unseen (Quran 6: 50) قُل لاَّ أَمْلِكُ لِنَفْسِي نَفْعًا وَلاَ ضَرًّا إِلاَّ مَا شَاء اللَّهُ وَلَوْ كُنتُ أَعْلَمُ الْغَيْبَ لاَسْتَكْثَرْتُ مِنَ الْخَيْرِ وَمَا مَسَّنِيَ السُّوءُ(الاعراف:188) Say (O Muhammad SalAllahu Alahi Wassalaam): “I possess no power over benefit or hurt to myself except as Allah wills. If I had the knowledge of the Ghayb (Unseen), I should have secured for myself an abundance of wealth, and no evil should have touched me. (Quran 7: 188) وَعِندَهُ مَفَاتِحُ الْغَيْبِ لاَ يَعْلَمُهَا إِلاَّ هُوَ(الانعام: 59) And with Him (Allah) are the keys of the Ghayb (all that is hidden), none knows them but He (Allah). (Quran 6: 59) Clearly, these aayaat prove that no one other than Allah (Subhana WaTa’ala) has the knowledge of the Ghayb. Furthermore, in one incident, Aishah (Radhi Allahu Anhaa) was falsely accused of indecency and, thus, the Prophet (SalAllahu Alahi Wassalaam) was worried for a long period of time. Until Allah (Subhanah WaTa’ala) sent down the Wahy to inform him of the truth. If he was knowledgeable of the Ghayb, then he would have known the reality of the situation. Many other instances, besides this one, have clearly shown that the beloved Prophet (SalAllahu Alahi Wassalaam) did not have knowledge of the Ghayb. Is it permissible to read Fatiha on food? The method mentioned in the query has no basis in Islam and therefore, is not permissible. To specify a certain day to do this and to do it for the Awliya makes this act impermissible. Rather any act of worship must be peformed for the sole pleasure of Allah (Subhanah WaTa’ala). However, if one feeds the poor and then intends its reward for the Awliya, then this method is permissible. The desire to send reward to ones deceased loved ones also existed at the time of the Sahabah, Tabieen, Tab-e-Tabieen, and so on, but not one incident is recorded of them doing it in the manner mentioned in the query. The method prescribed above has been mentioned, rather preferred, by the great Ulema of our Deen. Therefore, it is only appropriate to do this in the manner proven by Shariah. May Allah (Subhanah WaTa’ala) give all of us the Tawfiq to act upon his commands and the Sunah of our beloved Prophet (SalAllahu Alahi Wassalaam) in the best and purist of ways. Ameen. The following Kitabs may be read for more information: Ilm Ghayb by Hazrat Maulana Qari Muhammed Tayyab Sahab Mutala’a Barelwiyat by Dr. Allama Khalid Mahmood Sahab Ankhonki Tahandak by Hazrat Maulana Muhammed Sarfaraz Khan Sahab Barelwi Fitna Ka Naya Roop by Maulana Muhammed Arif Nadwi Sahab (Fatawa Mahmoodiya, 1/278, 345-358, 471-591, Farooqiya) (Nizam ul-Fatawa, 1/191-192, Taj) (Bahisti Zewar, 1/26-30, Zam Zam) (Fatawa Rahimiya, 2/115-116, 248, Isha’at) And Allah knows best Wassalamu Alaikum Ml. Sajid bin Shabbir, Student Darul Iftaa Checked and Approved by: Mufti Ebrahim Desai Darul Iftaa, Madrassah In’aamiyyah

Reading salam in the name of Prophet Muhammed s. w.a.s is right? Answer (Fatwa: 806/806/M=1431) When the name of the holy Prophet Muhammad (صلى الله عليه وسلم) is pronounced then sending durood and salam to him is mustahab. But the ongoing method of salat o salam (reciting durood loudly while standing believing him hazir w nazir i.e. omnipresent and omniscient is wrong, and it must be avoided. Allah (Subhana Wa Ta’ala) knows Best Darul Ifta, Darul Uloom Deoband

Q. I would like to know the view of the majority of the Ulama on the alleged omnipresence of the Holy Prophet (SAW). A. The established Aqeedah of the Ahlus Sunnah wal Jamaah (Sunni Muslims) is that the Prophet (SAS) is not Omni present. (The Mas’ala of Hadhir and Nadhir (Omni presence page 24). There is absolutely no difference of opinion on this matter among the scholars of the Ahlus Sunnah wal Jamaah. In fact, from the time of the Prophet (SA) until today, all the scholars and Muslims who held on to the true teachings of the Prophet (SA) and that of the Sahabahs (Ahlus Sunnah wal Jamaah ) have unanimously declared that the ‘invented teaching of the Omnipresence of the prophet (SA)’ is not established in the teachings of Islam. This is the view of all the scholars of Ahlus Sunnah wal Jamaah. As for those who subscribe to the Omni presence of the Prophet (SA), they are following an innovated teaching, and not the ‘Sunni’ teaching. Although they may claim that they hold on to the teachings of the Sunni Muslims, this innovated belief is not from the creed of the Ahlus Sunnah wal Jamaah. For more information you can read our article on ‘Hazir and Nazir’ for the Prophet (SA). And Allah knows best. Mufti Waseem Khan Source

Part 4 The Food and Drink of the People of Paradise The people will have whatever food and drink they desire: "Any fruit that they may choose, And the flesh of fowls that they desire" [56:20-21] "...there will be there all that the souls could desire, all that the eyes could delight in.." [43:71] Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) will permit them to take whatever they want of the good food and drink of Paradise: "Eat and drink at ease for that which you have sent on before you in days past!" [69:24] In Paradise there will be a sea of water, a sea of wine, a sea of milk and a sea of honey, and the rivers of Paradise will flow out of these seas. There will be also many springs in Paradise, and its people will drink from these seas, rivers and springs. (i) The Wine of the People of Paradise One of the drinks that Allaah will bestow on the people of Paradise will be wine. The wine of Paradise is free of all the troubles and problems that characterise the wine of this world, which makes people lose their minds, and causes headaches, stomach aches and other physical disorders, or which may have something wrong in the way it is made, or its colour, etc. But the wine of Paradise is free from all such faults; it is pure and beautiful: "Round them will be passed a cup of pure wine; white, delicious to the drinkers. Neither will they have ghoul [any kind of hurt, abdominal pain, headache, etc] from that, nor will they suffer intoxication therefrom" [37:45-47] Allaah described the beauty of its white colour, then explained that its drinker enjoy it very much, without is affecting their minds: "..rivers of wine delicious to those who drink.." [47:15] And they will never be adversely affected by drinking it: "..nor will they suffer intoxication therefrom" [37:47] Elsewhere in the Qur'aan, Allaah describes the wine of Paradise, "They will be served by immortal boys, With cups and jugs, and a glass from the flowing wine, Wherefrom they will get neither any aching of the head, nor any intoxication" [56:17-19] Commenting on this passage, Ibn Katheer said, "it does not cause their heads to ache or their minds to be fogged; it is pure, although it still contains the ingredients that make it a delight to the drinker. ad-Dahhaak narrated that Ibn 'Abbaas said, "Wine produces four things: drunkenness, headache, vomit and urine. Allaah (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wa Salaam) has mentioned the wine of Paradise, and He has purified it of all these things." [Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 6/514] In another part of the Qur'aan, Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) says: "They will be given to drink pure sealed wine, the last thereof will be the smell of musk.." [83:25-26] This wine is sealed or covered, and at the end of it, the drinker will find the scent of musk. (ii) The food and drink of the people of Paradise does not produce any impure excrement. This does not only apply to the first group to enter Paradise, all those who enter will be similarly pure. Muslim reports from Abu Hurayrah that the Messenger of Allaah (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wa Salaam) said, "The first group of my ummah to enter Paradise will be as beautiful as the full moon and those that come after them will be like the brightest shining star, and those that follow them will be ranked according to their status. They will not defecate, urinate or blow their noses or spit." [Muslim in Kitaab al-Jannah, Baab awwal zumrah tadkhul al-Jannah, 4/2188, no. 2834] (iii) Why Will the People of Paradise Eat and Drink and Comb their Hair? If the people of Paradise are to abide there forever, and it is free form all discomfort, pain and sickness, if there is no hunger or thirst there, and no impurities or dirt, then why will the people of Paradise eat and drink, and wear perfume and comb their hair? al-Qurtubee answered this question in at-Tadhkirah [p. 475, see also al-Fath, 6/325]: "The luxuries and clothing of the people of Paradise will not be for the purpose of warding off potential pains; they will not eat because of hunger or drink because of thirst, or wear perfume because of some offensive odour, because Paradise is a never-ending succession of delight and joy. Do you not remember the words of Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) to Aadam? "Verily you have that you will never be hungry therein nor naked. And you suffer not from thirst therein nor from the sun's heat." [20:118-119] The wisdom behind it [food and drink, etc] is so that Allaah will introduce Paradise to them in ways similar to the good things that they enjoyed on earth, but He will increase it in ways known only to Him." (iv) The Vessels and Cups of the People of Paradise The vessels from which the people of Paradise will eat and drink will be of gold and silver. Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) says: "Trays of gold and cups will be passed round them.." [43:71] i.e. cups of gold. And Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) says, "And amongst them, will be passed round vessels of silver and cups of crystal, crystal-clear, made of silver. They will determine the measure thereof according to their wishes." [76:15] i.e it will combine the purity of crystal with the whiteness of silver. al-Bukhaari and Muslim reported from Abu Musaa al-Ash'ari that the Messenger of Allaah (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wa Salaam) said, "The believer in paradise will have a tent made of a hollowed out pearl.. and two gardens of silver, their vessels and everything in them, and two gardens of gold, their vessels and everything in them." [Mishkaat al-Masaabeeh, 3/86] Among the vessels from which they will drink will be cups and jugs and glasses: "They will be served by immortal boys, with cups, and jugs and a glass from the flowing wine." [56:17-18] The Clothing, Jewellery and Incense-Burners Of the People of Paradise The people of Paradise will wear the most luxurious clothes, amongst other things, garments of silk and bracelets of gold, silver and pearls. Allaah (Subhaanahu Wa Ta'ala) says: "...wherein they will be adorned with bracelets of gold and pearls, and their garments will be of silk." [22:23] "'Adn Paradise they will enter, therein will they be adorned with bracelets of gold and pearls, and their garments there will be of silk." [35:33] "...They will be adorned with bracelets of silver, and their Rabb will give them a pure drink." [76:21] Their clothes will be colourful, including garments of green silk and brocade: "..They will be adorned therein with bracelets of gold, and they will wear green garments of fine silk and heavy brocade. They will recline therein on raised thrones. How good the recompense! How beautiful a couch to recline on." [18:31] "Their garments will be of fine green silk, and gold embroidery. They will be adorned with bracelets of silver.." [76:21] The Prophet (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wa Salaam) also told us that the people of Paradise will have combs of gold and silver, and that they will perfume themselves with 'Ud at-Teeb, even though the scent of musk will be emanating from their pure bodies. al-Bukhaari narrates from Abu Hurayrah that the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wa Salaam) said of those who will enter Paradise: "Their vessels will be of gold and silver, their combs will be of gold and the coals of their incense-burners will be of aloe-wood [Abul-Yaman said, "of 'Ud at-Teeb] and their sweat will be musk." [al-Bukhaari, Kitaab Bid' al-Khalq, Baab Maa Jaa'a fi Sifat al-Jannah wan-Naar, Fath al-Baari, 6/319] Their jewellery will include crowns. at-Tirmidhi and Ibn Maajah report from al-Miqdaam ibn Ma'd Yakrib that among the honours bestowed upon the martyr will be: "..there will be placed upon his head a crown of dignity, one ruby of which is better than this world and all that is in it." [Mishkaat al-Masaabeeh, 3/358, no. 3834, Saheeh Muslim, saheeh] The clothing and jewellery of the people of Paradise will never wear out or fade. Muslim reports from Abu Hurayrah (Radiyallahu Anhu) that the Prophet (Sallallaahu Alaihi Wa Salaam) said, "Whoever enters Paradise is blessed, and will never be miserable, his clothes will never wear out and his youth will never fade away." [saheeh Muslim, Kitaab al-Jannah, Baab fi Dawam Na'eem al-Jannah, 4/2181, no. 2836]

Yes being patient in a calamity is definite tough as is being grateful while in ease and comfort and safety which is also when one can forget Allah ta'ala. As for the respected Doctor, he is showing amazing strength and patience. After the funerals he has dedicated his life to bring fruition to the vision his wife and children had. As he said in an interview recently, he could easily take the easy way out and retire from work but he wishes to continue his work as well the wonderful work of deen he has begun in Ireland for which his whole family was dedicated...may ALLAH GRANT HIM GREAT STAGES!

Jazaakumullah for your valued responses...and all good is from Allah subhaanahu wata'ala. I look at doing my bit on this forum as a very special blessing from Him. I ask for acceptance through His grace. @Acacia: yes pls look with critical eye then get back...about the name change, just been feeling the need to make it more appealing and also so that members know whats its about. I feel that section is quite relevant to our lives @Naqshband: Not sure what you mean by "add dedicated section for "recent posts" as we have in MS" ...do you mean like the replies on previously posted topics? If so will ask brother arshad to look into it please continue to look around and make suggestions...constructive criticism will be inshaAllah valued

Assalaamu 'alaykum Warahmatullah Jazaakumullaahu khayran to our new members who have been adding valuable content in the various categories. Your reward is with Allah subhaanahu wata'ala! May He grant acceptance to all of us and make our efforts a means of attaining His pleasure, aameen! Ok my brothers and sisters, mashwarah (Consultation) time. The reason for this consultation is that it would be wonderful if you can all be a part of this forum inshaAllah by helping to make it better. So lets start in the name of Allah and see what we can come up with. What additions would you like to see? What needs to be changed for the better? I was thinking of changing the title of the category "Matters of the heart"...to what? any suggestions? any new ideas? InshaAlllah hoping to see replies....

maybe this should be in the "Matters of the heart" section....its a message for all of us