ummtaalib

History of the Sacred Chamber By Dr. Imtiaz Ahmad INTRODUCTION Hujrat are those huts in which Prophet Mohammad (SAS) used to reside with his wives. When the Prophet’s Mosque was being built, two huts were also constructed for Prophet’s wives Aisha (RUA) and Sauda(RU). More such huts were built as the number of wives of the Prophet (SAS) increased. All these huts or rooms were adjacent to the mosque and their doors used to open in the mosque. Each hut consisted of a room. It’s walls were built by unbaked bricks of mud and the roof by the branches of palm tree. It had also a tiny yard.As described in Bukhari, Dawud bin Qais (RU) said, “I saw these huts or hujrat. These were covered by the branches of the palm trees. The distance between the entrance door and the door of hujra was about three meters. Each hujra was roughly 5×5 meters. ” Hasan Basri (RU) said, “I was a teenager and I could touch the ceiling of each hut as I stood in it. Each hujra consisted of only one room. The roof of each room was made of wooden pieces.” (Bukhari 581, Khilasa-tul-Vifa 278). The wives of the Prophet (SAS) spent their lives in such ordinary rooms. The hujra of Aisha (RUA) will be described below in more detail. Other hujrat are described in by the author’s separate book titled ‘Houses of the Companions of the Prophet (SAS).’ When Omar bin Abdul Aziz (RU) expanded the Prophet’s Mosque, he included in it all the hujrat except that of Aisha (RUA). Sacred Chamber means that room in which the Prophet used to live with his wife Aisha. Prophet passed away in this room and was buried in this very room. Later on Caliph Abu Bakr (RU) and Caliph Omar (RU) were also buried in this room. Isa (AS) will be buried in this room as well when Allah (SWT) will send him down from the sky and when he (AS) will die like other human beings. DREAM OF AISHA (RUA) Aisha (RUA) said, “I saw in a dream that three moons fell in my lap. I described this dream to my father Abu Bakr (RU).” When Prophet Mohammad (SAS) died and was buried in Aisha’s room, Abu Bakr (RU) referring to Aisha’s (RUA) dream said to her, “This is the one among your moons and it is better than the other two.” BURIAL IN AISHA’S CHAMBER Imam Malik (RTA) said, “Prophet Mohammad (SAS) died on Monday and was buried on Tuesday. Some people suggested that he should be buried near the pulpit. Others suggested Baqee graveyard for his burial. Abu Bakr (RU) said, ‘I have heard from Prophet Mohammad (SAS) that a prophet is buried at that spot where he passes away.’ Hence Prophet Mohammad (SAS) was buried in Aisha’s hujra.” When Prophet Mohammad (SAS) was given a bath before his burial, a sound was heard calling for not removing the shirt of the Prophet (SAS). Hence his shirt was not removed and he was given bath with his clothes on.” “People offered Salat-ul-Janaza individually. No congregational salat was held with an Imam.” (Muwatta Imam Malik) Salam Bin Obeid (RU), was one of the residents of Suffah. He narrated that the companions asked Abu Bakr (RU), “Should we bury the Prophet?” Abu Bakr (RU) replied, “Yes”. They asked, “Where?” Abu Bakr (RU) said “Where he died”. Hence the Prophet (SAS) was buried in Aisha’s chamber. (Majma-al-Zawaid). As described in Bukhari, Aisha (RUA) said, “Prophet Mohammad (SAS) said during his illness before death, ‘Where will I stay tonight? Where am I supposed to be tomorrow?’ All his wives very willingly agreed to let him stay in my chamber during his final illness? He passed away when his head was in my lap. He was buried in my room.” PREPARATION FOR THE GRAVE Abdullah bin Abbas (RU) narrated that at the time of the bath of the Prophet (SAS) some companions gathered outside his house. Abbas (RU) called two of them. He sent one to bring Abu Obeida bin Jarrah (RU) since he used to dig straight graves in Makkah. Abbas (RU) sent the other person to bring Abu Talha (RU) since he used to dig graves in Madina with a side trench in it. At that time Abbas (RU) also made this supplication, “O Allah, choose one of them for your beloved Prophet”. By chance the messengers could not find Abu Obeida (RU) or Abu Talha (RU). Hence Abbas (RU) made the grave for the Prophet with a side trench at the bottom of the grave. (Bukhari, Muwatta) BURIAL OF ABU BAKR (RU) Caliph Abu Bakr (RU) left a will with Aisha [ to bury him by the side of Prophet Mohammad (SAS). Hence he was buried there in such a way that his head was in line with the shoulders of Prophet Mohammad (SAS). A grave with side trench was prepared for him. Ibn Kathir wrote that Abu Bakr (RU) died in Jamada II of 13H. He was sixty three years old just like Prophet Mohammad (SAS). He was, in this way, with the Prophet (SAS) after death just like he was with him during his lifetime. During Abu Bakr’s (RU) fifteen days illness, Omar (RU) led the salat. (Al Bidaih Wa An Nihaih) SUPPLICATION OF OMAR (RU) AND HIS MARTYRDOM Prophet Mohammad (SAS) migrated to Madina and spent rest of his life there and finally died in Madina. Prophet (SAS) used to encourage Muslims to reside and die in Madina. As described by Ibn Majah and narrated by Ibn Omar (RU), Prophet Mohammad (SAS) used to say, “You should wish to die in Madina. I shall be a witness for the person who dies in Madina.” Hence Omar (RU) used to make the following dua as mentioned in Bukhari, “O Allah, please grant me martyrdom and make me die in the city of Your beloved Prophet (SAS).” Ibn Kathir wrote that Allah (SWT) granted the dua of Omar (RU) and combined his both wishes. Omar (RU) was leading Sala-tul-Fajr on 26th of Dhul Hajja in the year of 23H. A person attacked him with a double edged sharp dagger causing a fatal wound. This was done by a slave of Al-Mugayyrah bin Shaabah. This slave was known as Abu Luh Luh who was a worshipper of fire and not a Muslim by faith. Lot of blood was gushing out of the wound of Omar (RU). He was immediately brought to his home. At times he passed out and at times he regained his senses. When he was reminded of the salat, he completed his salat and said “Those who do not establish salat have nothing to do with Islam.” Omar (RU) enquired, “ Who was the attacker?” He was told about Abu Luh Luh, the non Muslim. Omar (RU) said “All praise is for Allah (SWT) who did not cause my death by the hands of a person who is Muslim by faith.” Soon after this he died and was buried by the side of Abu Bakr (RU) on the first of Muharram in the year 24H. Omar (RU) was the third moon which Aisha (RU) saw in her dream. OMAR’S (RU) PERMISSION FOR BURIAL As mentioned in Bukhari and narrated by Amar bin Maimon (RU), “I saw that Omar (RU) was instructing his son, Abdullah bin Omar (RU) to visit Aisha (RUA) and after conveying his salam to her, to make the following request. ‘Omar (RU) requests you to grant him permission to be buried along with his companions in her chamber.’ Ibn Omar went to Aisha (RUA) and requested her accordingly. She said, ‘I had reserved this spot for myself. I however, grant you the permission out of sympathy.’ When Ibn Omar returned he informed Omar (RU) about the permission of Aisha (RUA). Omar (RU) said, ‘After my death again convey my salam to Aisha (RUA) and request her once again to grant the permission for burial in her chamber. If she does not grant the permission, bury me in Baqee cemetry.’ Aisha again granted the permission.” ALI’S (RU) DUA As mentioned in Bukhari, Ibn Abbas (RU) narrated, “Omar (RU) was put on a cot or a bed after his death. Many people surrounded the cot and were making supplications for Omar (RU). I was among these people. One person put his hand on my shoulder. I turned around and noticed that it was Ali (RU). Ali (RU) made the following supplication, ‘O Omar, may Allah’s (SWT), mercy be showered on you. I wish when I face Allah (SWT) I go there with wonderful deeds like yours. I swear I have full faith in the fact that Allah (SWT) will make you join your companions. I often heard this from Prophet Mohammad (SAS), ‘I, Abu Bakr and Omar went. I, Abu Bakr and Omar entered. I, Abu Bakr and Omar came out.” VEIL OF AISHA (RUA) After the burial of Omar (RU) in the Sacred Chamber, Aisha (RUA) put a partition between the area occupied by the graves and rest of the room. It was because Omar (RU) was not mahram to her. Hence she continued keeping her veil from him even after his death. It is mentioned in Tabka-tul-Kubra and narrated by Malik bin Anas (RU), “After burial of Omar (RU) in the Sacred Chamber, Aisha (RUA) divided her room into two parts by building a wall between the graves and rest of her tiny living area. Whenever she went to the area occupied by the graves, she wore Islamic veil.” It is mentioned in Vifa-ul-Vifa, Aisha (RUA) said, “When no wall was built between the graves and my living area, I never took my veil off and used to stay wrapped up in clothes.” These steps of Aisha (RUA) are a guiding light for the Muslim women to observe the Islamic veil. Every muslim woman should ask herself how close she is to this Islamic practice. ORDER OF THE THREE GRAVES There are different narrations regarding the order and lay out of the graves of Prophet Mohammad (SAS) and his two companions resting in the Sacred Chamber. Most of the scholars have described it as follows. First grave from Qiblah or from the southern wall of the Sacred Chamber is of Prophet Mohammad (SAS). Abu Bakr’s (RU) grave is a bit north of the Prophet’s (SAS) grave in such a way that the head of Abu Bakr (RU) is in line with the shoulders of the Prophet (SAS). Slightly north of it is the grave of Omar (RU) and his head is in line with the shoulders of Abu Bakr (RU). Samhoudi and other scholars preferred this description over other versions. Nawawi and many other scholars have used this lay out to guide visitors for salutation to Prophet (SAS) and his companions. Nawawi said, “The visitor should face towards the grave with his back toward Qiblah and respectfully offer salutation to the Prophet (SAS). Then move about half a meter to his right and offer salutation to Abu Bakr (RU). Finally move about half meter more to his right and offer salutation to Omar (RU). THE OUTER APPEARANCE OF THE GRAVES It will be pertinent to mention here that the companions never put bricks or other similar materials on these three graves. Qasim bin Mohammad bin Abu Bakr (RU) narrated as mentioned in Sunan Abu Dawud, “ I visited Aisha (RU) and requested her to show me these three graves. I observed that the graves were neither very high above the ground nor totally in level with the ground. I saw these covered with reddish color earth.” It is mentioned in Tabqa-tul-Kubra by Ibn Saad as narrated by Qassim, “I was only a child when I visited these graves which were covered with reddish color earth.” It is mentioned in Fatah Bari as narrated by Abu Bakr Ajari (RU) “I saw these graves during the period of Omar bin Abdul Aziz (RU). These were about four inches above the ground level”. It is also mentioned in Fatah Bari as narrated by Rija bin Haiwah, “Waleed bin Abdul Malik wrote to Omar bin Abdul Aziz to purchase the hujrat of the wives of Prophet Mohammad (SAS) and include this area in the mosque as well. When the walls of the hujrats were removed, these graves became visible. The sandy soil on the graves had somewhat leveled off. Omar bin Abdul Aziz rebuilt the walls of Aisha’s chamber during the expansion of the Prophet’s Mosque.” A renowned scholar, Samhoudi, mentioned in Vifa-ul-Vifa that the walls of the Sacred Chamber were remodeled in 878H. He had the privilege and honor of entering the Sacred Chamber during these repairs. Samhoudi said, “As I entered the Sacred Chamber, I found very delicate fragrance there which I had never experienced in my life before. I offered salutation to the Prophet (SAS) and his both companions. Then I focused my attention to condition of the graves so that I could describe it fully to others. All three graves were almost even to the ground level. At one place there was a slight rise above the ground level. It was probably, Omar’s (RU) grave. The graves were definitely covered by ordinary earth.” After this occasion nobody has been able to see these graves since all the four walls of the Sacred Chamber have been fully built upto the roof level and closed for any view. I may add that some people are carrying pictures of these graves indicating that the graves are built of bricks or stones and are quite high from the ground level. It is total fabrication. This approach is like following the footsteps of Jews. When Jews wanted to make something permissible for them, they would ascribe it to Prophet Moses (AS) to justify their actions. SPOT FOR THE FOURTH GRAVE As mentioned some hadith and other authentic books there is a spot for a fourth grave in the Sacred Chamber. This is the same spot which Aisha (RUA) offered to Abdur Rahman bin Auf (RU). Hafs bin Omar bin Abdur Rahman narrated, “ When Abdur Rahman bin Auf (RU) was on his death bed, Aisha (RUA) sent him a message that I have kept a spot for you near the Prophet (SAS). Accept it, if you like.” Abdur Rahman (RU) said, “ I have heard that you have not removed your veil since Omar (RU) was burried in your room. Furthermore, I do not like to convert the house of the Prophet (SAS) into a cemetery. I have promised Osman bin Mazun (RU) that our graves will be situated close to each other.” (History of Madina-Ibn Shabah) Hence there is a spot for a fourth grave in the Sacred Chamber. It is also mentioned in Bukhari that Aisha (RUA) left this will with her nephew Abdullah bin Zubair (RU), instructing him not to bury her in the Sacred Chamber. Rather bury her with rest of the wives of the Prophet (SAS) in Baqee cemetery since she does not wish to distinguish herself from his other wives. Imam Malik (RTA) said, “There was some space in the Sacred Chamber. Hence Aisha (RUA) was told that, if it pleased her, she would be buried there after her death”. Aisha (RUA) replied, ‘I would then become one who invents an innovation.’” Many scholars have written that there is a spot for a grave near the eastern part of the Sacred Chamber. Saeed bin Al-Musayyab said, “This is the spot for Isa (AS).” Furthermore, it is obvious that there was a tiny living area for Aisha (RUA) in her humble hut after the partition was built to separate her from the graves. In other words, there is a spot for the fourth grave in the Sacred Chamber, where Isa (AS) will be buried. BURIAL OF ISA (AS) Tirmidhi has mentioned as narrated by Abdullah bin Salam (AS), “The characteristics of Prophet Mohammad (SAS) are described in Old Testament and it is also mentioned there that Isa (AS) will be buried with him”. Abdullah bin Omar (RU) has narrated that Prophet Mohammad (SAS) said, “Isa (AS) will descend to the earth. He will marry and will have children. In this way he will spend forty five years and finally he will die and will be buried with me. On the Day of Judgement. I, Isa (AS), Abu Bakr and Omar will rise from the same site.” (Al-Vifa). HISTORICAL STAGES IN CONSTRUCTION OF THE SACRED CHAMBER Original hujra or hut of Aisha was built of branches of palm trees covered with blanket of hair. The frame of the door was made of wood. The branches of trees were replaced by bricks by Omar (RU). It is narrated by Obeid ullah bin Abu Yazeed that the walls of the house of Prophet (SAS) were not made of bricks, stones or any other such materials. Omar (RU) rebuilt these walls by bricks during his Caliphate. These walls were, however, small. Abdulla bin Zubair raised these higher. (Tabka-tul-Kubra). Near the end of the first century of Hijra, Omar bin Abdul Aziz constructed the walls of the Sacred Chamber with black stone. THE EVENT OF A VISIBLE FOOT Urwa bin Zubair narrated that hujrat were removed during the period of Waleed bin Abdul Malik in order to include them in the expansion of the Prophet’s Mosque. At that time the eastern wall of the Sacred Chamber collapsed. It was necessary to dig its foundation to rebuild it. In this process a foot appeared. Someone said that it was perhaps the Prophet’s (SAS) foot. Urwa saw it and said, “I swear it is not the Prophet’s foot, it is Omar’s (RU) foot”. More detail of this event is given by Abdullah bin Mohammad bin Aqeel. He said, “I used to come to the Prophet’s Mosque in the later part of the night. I used to salute Prophet (SAS) and then used to stay in the mosque till salat-ul-fajr. One night it was raining. When I reached near the house of Al-Mugayyara bin Shaabah (RU), I came across some fragrance which I had never experienced before. I entered the mosque and saluted the Prophet (SAS). I was surprised to see that one wall of the Sacred Chamber had collapsed. I went inside the chamber and saluted the Prophet (SAS) again. Shortly after this Omar bin Abdul Aziz, the Governor of Madina, arrived there since he had been informed about the fall of the wall. He ordered to cover the Sacred Chamber with a large piece of cloth. In the morning a builder was brought and was told to go inside the chamber. He requested that another person should also accompany him. Omar bin Abdul Aziz (RU) became ready for it. Qasim bin Abu Bakr volunteered for it also. Similarly Salim bin Abdullah bin Omar volunteered too and insisted to accompany them as well. Omar bin Abdul Aziz (RU) said, ‘We should not bother the residents of the graves by crowding there.’ Omar (RU) then said to his freed slave, Mazaham, ‘Please go inside all alone.’ Mazaham said, ‘The first grave is slightly lower in height than the other two graves.’ After the completion of the renovation Omar (RU) said to Mazaham, ‘Go inside again and clean the Sacred Chamber.’ Mazaham went in again and did the general cleaning there after the renovation activities. Later on Omar (RU) remarked, ‘I wish I had done this cleaning in place of Mazaham. This cleaning activity would have been better for me than all of the worldly assets.’” FIVE CORNERED WALLS In 91H, Omar bin Abdul Aziz built these five cornered walls around the inner four walls of the Sacred Chamber so that nobody may enter the Sacred Chamber. These outer walls are about seven meters high and are covered by a cloth. These days this outer structure is called Sacred Chamber. Samhoudi said, “The outer walls were made with five corners instead of four, so that the Sacred Chamber does not resemble the Kabah. This was to avoid any possibility of people making prostration to the Sacred Chamber. In 1296H, a screen of a window fell inside the Sacred Chamber. Burzanji went, with the Imam of Prophet’s Mosque, on the roof of the mosque. They saw that there was an inner smaller dome. The inner Sacred Chamber was a square structure and covered with a cloth. Hence it was not possible to see inside the Sacred Chamber enclosed by the four walls. RENOVATION OF WALLS OF THE SACRED CHAMBER During the period of Qaitabai, the walls of the Sacred Chamber were renovated again. Samhoudi described it as follows: “The eastern wall of Sacred Chamber developed some cracks. The cracks were filled and white washing was done on top of it. In due course of time these fillings wore off and cracks appeared in the five cornered walls of the Sacred Chamber. Hence on the 14th of Shaaban 881H, the outer five walls of the Sacred Chamber were removed for reconstruction. The cracks were also visible in the inner four walls of the Sacred Chamber. Hence these innermost walls were also removed. This made the Sacred Chamber open and visible.” Samhoudi stated, “I had the privilege and honor to enter the Sacred Chamber. I entered from the backside (i.e. North). I experienced a unique fragrance there which I never came across in my life. I humbly saluted the Prophet (SAS) and his two companions. I then took part in reconstruction of the Sacred Chamber voluntarily and this construction work was completed on the seventh of Shawwal.” Samhoudi added, “We saw that the inner structure of the Sacred Chamber was a square and built of black stones similar to the stones of Kabah. There was no door in it. The visitor automatically develops very lovely feelings there.” Abu Mohammad's Blog

Under the Green Dome Click on the pictures to enlarge Details of the Noble Chamber

The Fake Tombs The following regarding fake pictures of the tomb of Allah's beloved sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam on the internet has been put together after research at Muftisays.com Below are some pictures with the title “FAKE IMAGE" claimed as Prophet Mohammed's Tomb. I have added most pictures being used on the internet. Hadhrat Ali (radhiAllaahu anhu) narrates that Nabi (sallAllaahu alaihi wasallam) deputed him with the important duty of destroying any (animate) picture or figure that he saw and flattening any grave that he saw which was (unusually) high. [Mishkaat, page 148] The above is the most common fake image The Picture below is probably as far as you’ll get Its behind these walls. We are not able to see! those who try, they just see darkness, dust, light and a veil. SO WHOSE TOMB PICTURES ARE THEY? The tomb in the photo’s are not the BLESSED one of our Prophet (salallahu alayhi was salaam) but it is the tomb of Uthman Ghazi, the first sultan of the Ottoman Empire! And here is the proof : match these pictures.. and match the picture found on Wikipedia and above... en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Osman_I

The husband and wife should both protect themselves from negative thinking. The one who is positive sees everything in good spirits, whereas the one who is negative sees everything falling apart. A positive person enjoys the beauty of the rose, whilst a negative person continues to complain about the thorn beneath it. If the husband and wife have a negative mind, then every word and move of any of the spouses will be a means of pain to the other. Everything will then be misinterpreted and will become a point of dispute. Don’t be like the wife who once told her husband: “Today I really saw a pious man. He was flying in the sky.” When the husband replied: “That was me,” she immediately responded: “I was wondering why he was flying so crooked.” We simply need to become more positive. Before doing anything negative or jumping to any conclusion, reflect as to where this negativity will lead us to. Be positive. Insha-Allah you will enjoy positive outcomes. uswatulmuslimah.co.za

Question: I am married for almost a year. I feel like most of the time my husband doesn’t really love me. He’s never affectionate, or pays attention as I would like him to. I always tell him I love him, as for being intimate I’m always throwing myself at him which makes me mad because I feel like I’m the man having to start everything. What I want is to be swept off my feet. It wouldn’t kill him to say he loves me once in a while, or give me a rose one day. I don’t know what to do. If I talk to him he gets annoyed . I don’t want to say quiet with all these feelings inside me. How can I make our relationship more loving and caring? Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. Sister in Islam, We observe that you are married for almost one year. It is normal for couples to experience some turbulence in the beginning of the marriage. This is a time for couples to get used to one another and make adjustments. You state that your husband does not show love and affection to you; it is natural for a wife to desire the attention of her husband. It is important for you to understand that Allah Ta’ala in his infinite wisdom has created us with different demeanors. It should not be assumed that everyone is on the same “wavelength”. Many individuals do not freely express their inner feelings. This certainly does not mean that such a person does not hold any feelings. Rather, the element of reservation is dominant in them. We advise that you explore and identify the likes and dislikes of your husband. Observe how he reacts to situations and build on that. From time to time, enquire from him if he is feeling uncomfortable with something you are doing and how he would like you to present yourself. This attitude will prompt him to realize how he should react to you and be sensitive to you. At the same time, approach someone you hold close and trust in to point out areas you need to better yourself in. We as humans have our own deficiencies, which should not be ignored. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. idealwoman.org

Question: I intend to go on hajj this year. However, I will be menstruating whilst traveling so i will be pure just in time for hajj days. My question is, do I go into ihram from point of meeqat? And do I have to stay in ihram till I become pure and perform umrah? This will end up being a number of days of menstruating, possibly 5, so Im not sure what Im supposed to be doing. Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. Sister in Islam, It is necessary to go into ihram at or before the meeqat irrespective of whether one is menstruating or not. If you are in the state of haidh while you are in ihram, you cannot perform Umrah. Therefore, you should wait until you become pure before you perform Umrah. [1] And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai.

Question: Is it permissible to use water permeable nail polish whilst performing wudu? Will the prayer be valid? There is a water permeable nail polish. The brand is called Tuesday in love. The water permeability test shows water passing through when tested on tissue paper. There has been another company called Inglot which claimed to be permeable but with testing became evident that this claim was false. However this new product lives up to the claim. Could you please clarify to women if it is indeed permissible to wear the Tuesday in love water permeable nail polish whilst performing wudu (ablution)? Will the wudu be valid? Answer:In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. In principle, water must reach and wet the nails in Wudu.[1]If the nail polish forms a surface on the nail and water does not reach and wet the nails, the Wudu will be invalid.[2] We are unable to comment on the product in reference as we have not conducted a test on it. In issues of ‘Ibaadah, it is important to exercise caution and ensure that the Wudu and Salah is valid. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai.

Question: Can I take a contraceptive pill to prevent my period during Hajj? As the doctor told me that the pill may not completely stop the bleeding, it may cause some spotting. Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. Sister in Islam, It is a well known fact that the use of contraceptive pills is not free from harmful side effects. It is also well known that woman performing Hajj face challenges with their menstrual cycle, especially in view of her departure flight and performing Tawaf-al-ziyarat, which is a compulsory act of hajj. Since every woman has a different cycle and every woman knows her cycle best, it is impractical to offer a general recommendation on the use of contraceptive pills. We advise you consult your gynecologist and act accordingly. You should plan your journey, especially your departure from Makkah Mukarramah in such a way that you have sufficient time to perform your Tawaf-al-ziyarat. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai.

Question: 1) A sister is going for Hajj, she wants to know if she is allowed to take the contraceptive pills? There are many different opinions, from my little research I found that she is allowed to take. 2) When she does take these pills. Everything is in the qudrat of Allah, as pills have no power… so because of the pills sometimes the side effect happens in which spots of blood might become visible (as heard from other people). So what is the ruling of that? Like how about she starts to see few spots of blood then it goes away. Will she be a person with istihaaza? 3) After Hajj she will be travelling to Turkey so is she allowed to continue to take the pill or does she only take the pills during Hajj time and stop thereafter? 4) If she does go to Turkey and stops the pills and gets her haiz is she still allowed to enter the mosques to see them as in the tour whilst avoiding the women’s prayer area. 5) Can a woman perform her Salaah without burkha as in the whole head covering which is from the head to the knees… or can she still perform her salaah with a scarf that covers her hair and she wears long sleeves and makes sure her ankles are covered. Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. 1) A woman should not interfere with her natural monthly cycle. However, in order to overcome some unavoidable challenges especially during Hajj, there is a leeway for her to use contraceptive pills.[1] 2) Contraceptive pills are known to have many side effects including spotting or breakthrough bleeding which generally occurs in between periods.[2] If the spotting occurs during the usual monthly period, then it will be considered as Haiz and she will have to wait until her period is over in order perform Tawaaf-e-Ziyaarah – which is a compulsory act of Hajj – if she has not already done so. If the spotting occurs after the normal monthly cycle, then it will be Istihaza. 3) We advise against the use of contraceptive pills when there is no dire need to do so. 4) A woman in Haiz can not enter the Masjid proper.[3] However, she may enter those parts of the Masaajid which are not included in the boundaries of both the male and female prayer areas. 5) It is necessary for a woman to cover her entire body in Salaah apart from her face, hands and feet.[4] Therefore, she may perform Salaah wearing a scarf. However, the outline of her body should not be clearly visible as this defeats the purpose of covering the body. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. idealwoman.org

Secrets of the Majestic Chamber of Allah’s Beloved sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam A translate of an interview which reveals some of the secrets of the majestic chamber of Allah’s Beloved sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam This is the story of the honoured man who had the privilege of cleaning the dust and changing the covering of the blessed chamber! The Conversations of Tears and Reverence I still remember the conversations with the two old men in Makkah, while looking at their weaving. I was in Makkah, so I headed toward the factory of the covering of the Kaaba, and there I learned that the factory has another honour, for it produces also a covering for the Prophetic Chamber. I met at that time- several years ago- with men who partook in the production and installation, and I didn’t want to waste that opportunity as their youngest was in his sixties and I feared that they would leave this world before I could document this work. I recorded with them conversations that were mixed with tears and reverence; sometimes words would betray them, and at others, their emotions would choke them, as they spoke of their unique experience. Their limbs shook from just the memory- as if it happened yesterday- and not a quarter of a century ago. Shaykh Muhammad Ali Madani, head of the automated weaving division of the factory at that time, was generous with me. I learned from him that he was one of those who took part in weaving and installing the covering of the Prophetic Chamber. I said to him, tell me about the covering and the Prophetic Chamber- describe them to me. His sight wandered far, as if he was bringing those treasured memories before him. Then he answered: On that day, I felt a state of complete amazement take over me. It is a grand spot- of utmost grandeur. I do not know its exact circumference, but it seemed to me that the Prophetic Chamber was 48 meters in circumference. The awe of the place was so overbearing that nothing attracted my attention. I was so dazzled that I only saw the lamps hanging from the chamber ceiling, which were old gifts that would be given to the Mosque of the Prophet in ancient times. I was told that there were some Prophetic relics that were kept in another place- I don’t know where- but I do know that some historical items were kept in the chamber of sayyida Fatima al-Zahraa- the same place that she lived in. He added: the chamber covering is a weave made of pure silk, green in color, padded with a strong cotton cloth, and it is crowned by a belt similar to that of the covering of the Honored Kaaba, except that it is red in color. A quarter of its space is taken up by an embroidery of noble Quranic verses from Surat al-Fath, made of lines of cotton and wires of gold and silver… The covering of the Prophetic Chamber is not changed every year like the covering of the Honored Kaaba, because it is kept inside the chamber and far from the hands of the people and of the elements, and so it is only changed when needed. Then I met shaykh Ahmad Sahirty, head of the embroidery division of the factory. It was apparent to me - back then- how old he was, and how weak his vision. He took the initiative, saying: How can I speak to you about my feelings at the moment I entered the Prophetic Chamber… I can’t.. That is a speech above my abilities of speech, and I never thought that I would one day be asked about this experience. And I guarantee you that I will not be able to go through it again. When the Doors Were Opened He drew nearer to me and added: Look at the lenses of my spectacles- and he pointed at their thickness- and look at my white hair and the weight of the years that I carry. My age I do not count, but I’ve heard them say that I was born in the year 1333 A.H. (1917 C.E.). And in all those years, I did not know a single hobby other than the love of beautiful scents and perfumes. I’ve spent such a long period of time in those years that I’ve lived, trying to satiate that voracious appetite that is still with me; I traveled much and learned much, but I can tell you this with confidence: that I have my own special blends that you will not find with anyone else, and that no one else could ever make. And I tell you this because I discovered my inability and the meagerness of my knowledge on that blessed night, when the doors were opened to us, and we entered the Prophetic Chamber, and I inhaled perfumes and scents that I have never known before, and have never known since. I still do not know the secret of its composition: it was a scent above scents, an aroma above and beyond aromas- something else that us people of expertise, the people of the trade, have never experienced before. When I asked him to describe to me the Prophetic Chamber, a slight chill struck him and coursed through his body. And he said in a faint voice: I believe that the chamber is 11 meters in height. Below the green dome is another dome on which is written: “The tomb of the Prophet, the tomb of Abu Bakr al-Siddeeq, and the tomb of Umar ibn al-Khattab”. And I saw also that there was another tomb that was empty, and next to the four tombs was the chamber of sayyida Fatima al-Zahraa, which is the house in which she lived. From our awe we didn’t know how to remove the special pieces made for the dome- our fingers would shake and our breaths would race. We stayed 14 full nights working from after the Isha prayer until the first adhaan of the Fajr, in order to finish our task. We kept removing the pieces, untying the knots of the old covering, and cleaning all the dust and pigeon feathers that were stuck in that pure place. This scene goes back to the year 1971 C.E., and the covering that we changed was old: it was 75 years old according to the date that was weaved on it, and had never been changed since. I was the first to enter, with the Sayyid Habib, one of the notables of al-Madina al-Munawwara, As’ad Sheera the director of religious endowments of Madina at the time, and Habib Moghrabi from the factory management, and Abd al-Karim Flomban, Nasir Qari, Abd al-Rahim Bukhari and others. We were 13 men, I don’t remember most of them, for they have left unto the Mercy of Allah. We were accompanied by the chief of the Aghas who kept the keys to the Prophetic Chamber, and a number of the servants of the Chamber. Whispering was our speech, and that was if signaling was not sufficient. I was, and still am, suffering from weakness of vision and these spectacles have not left my eyes since those days, but in that chamber I was another person… I felt it, and the difference was clear to me. Strange Happenings The shaykh Sahirti swore, saying: I used to put the thread into the hole of the needle without my spectacles, despite the dim light in which we worked. How do you explain that? And how do you explain the fact that I didn’t feel the allergy that I suffered - and still suffer- from? Because I cough severely from the slightest bit of dust. But that day, I was not affected by the dust of the chamber, or the sand flying into the air. As if sand was no longer sand, and as if the dust became a medicine for my ailment. I used to feel all during those nights that I was a young man, and that youthfulness had been given back to me. Another strange thing happened to me whose secret I haven’t understood until today. We had to take out the old covering, and it was carried by whoever carried it. The embroidered band, 36 meters long, remained. I said to them wrap it and leave it. I went up to it, and despite my weakness, carried it over this shoulder. I went out of the Prophetic Chamber with it, without ever feeling its weight. But after that, they came with five young men to carry it from where I had put it down and they couldn’t. The shaykh began to weep silently and continued, while sighing: Someone asked who carried it and brought it here. I replied saying: me. They didn’t believe me. I said to them: Ask Abd al-Rahim Bukhari, the famous calligrapher of the covering. Source

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-england-24076859 Nothing brings the reality of death in one's heart like a tragic and unexpected death of someone one knows. The tragic fire incident in Leicester on Thursday night was one such incident for my family. I remember a sweet and gentle sister, devoted to studies of the Deen; I remember seeing her last in a little library at the Darul Uloom she studied, surrounded by huge books and I remember being inspired by her! She qualified as an 'Aalimah in August 2013 and immediately joined a class to improve her Qur'an recitation. She died therefore as a student of Deen on Thursday night; Stages upon stages of dying as a student of Deen, on a Friday and as a Martyr! May Allah subhaanahu wata'ala elevate the stages of the family and grant sabrun jameel to Dr Tawfeeq Sahib who lost his beloved wife, three children and his home. The following is advice given by our respected Sahykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat (Hafizahullah) He mentioned seven points in todays evening majlis regarding yesterdays incident.. 1. we should feel sorrow in our heart for this tragic incident as they are our family in Islam whether we know them or not 2. we should go to do taaziyat of the people left behind..not go to increase their sadness but to decrease it by giving comfort 3. if this incident has been done purposefully then make dua for the hidayat of such people who could heartlessly take innocent lives 4. Make dua for the deceased and do isaale Thawab 5. Do not involve in unnecessary speculations of what has happened or what could have happened 6. The grief felt by the father upon losing all the members of his family is undescribable, In a hadith Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi wasallam mentions that the person who misses his asr salaah it is as if he has lost all his family and belongings ie that is how much grief we should feel upon missing any one salah. So be punctual. 7. They had a sudden death..they had no idea that their death was coming that night so we should think also that my death could also be sudden..they had a good death Mashallah travellers, seeking knowledge, shuhadaa, death on a friday..but where will our death be..may it not be while we are sinning away.. May Allah Ta'aala grant us all Tawfiq to take lessons from this incident Aameen

THE SITE OF FATIMA’S (Radhiyallaahu 'anhaa) GRAVE Many people are under the impression that Fatimah (Radhiyallaahu 'anhaa) rests behind the door mentioned in the previous post (Number 29). This is incorrect and the following provides the answer Fatima (RUA), the daughter of the Prophet (SAS), died in a Hujrah adjacent to the Hujrah of Aisha (RUA). Some people erroneously state that she is also buried in her Hujrah. She is in fact, buried in Baqee as proved by many historical facts. 1.Fatima (RUA) used to say, “My modesty is injured by the following thought. After my death, my body will be put on a plank just like bodies of men. It will be covered by a piece of cloth and then carried on shoulders to the graveyard. In this way the shape of my body may become visible to others.” As mentioned in History of Madina, Fatima (RUA) expressed her above concern to Asma bint Omais (RUA). Asma (RUA) said to her, “ Should I not show you what I observed in Habsha?” Fatima (RUA) said, “Why not. Please do demonstrate it to me.” Asma (RUA) ordered a few green branches of palm tree. She bent each one of them into an arc. Then she spread a piece of cloth over these arcs. Fatima (RUA) said, “Fantastic.” This will show the distinction between the janaza of a man and a woman. It will also hide the body of a woman.” Fatima (RUA) added, “Listen Asma, after my death, you and Ali (RU) give me a bath. Nobody else should come near me. Please place the branches of tree on me in the same manner you demonstrated to me.” When Fatima (RUA) died, Asma (RUA) covered a plank of wood in the above manner and said, “This was the will of Fatima (RUA).” It is further explained in History of Madina that Fatima (RUA) was the first Muslim woman to be buried with a cover on her body in the above manner. After that Zainab bint Jahsh (RUA) was buried in the same manner. Consequently, all Muslim women were buried in this fashion. It is clear that Fatima (RUA) knew that her body would be taken from her Hujrah to Baqee. That’s why she expressed her concern and fear to Asma (RUA). If she was to be buried in her Hujrah, she did not need to make above will to Asma (RUA). It is also mentioned in History of Madina that according to some historians, there was a house situated just north of Baqee. It was called Dar Aqeel. The house was adjacent to Baqee and its one door opened into Baqee. Fatima (RUA) was buried in one corner of this very house. 2. It is mention in Vafa-ul-Vafa that Masoudi visited Madina during 302 Hijrah. He saw a stone fixed on certain graves with following inscription on it. In the name of Allah, the most gracious, the most merciful. All praise is for Allah (SWT) who has the power to destroy the nations and has also power to put life in rotten and fragile bones. Here is the grave of Fatima (RUA) daughter of the Prophet (SAS) who is the most distinguished lady of the world. Also are the graves of Hasan (RU) bin Ali (RU), Ali bin Husain bin Ali (RU), Mohammad bin Ali and Jaafar bin Mohammad (RU). 3. It is also mentioned in Vafa-ul-Vafa that Hasan (RU) made the following will to his brother Hussain (RU): “When I die, my body should first be brought near the grave of the Prophet (SAS). It should then be transferred to Baqee and buried near the grave of my mother.” He was buried in Baqee near the grave of Fatima (RUA) as desired in his will. It is very clear from these facts that Fatima (RUA) was not buried in her Hujrah. She was, in fact, buried in Baqee. The arguments of historians with contrary thinking has no weight against above proofs. Samhoudi has written in Vafa-ul-Vafa that such contrary narrations are false and are far from the truth. Source

Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat “Upon observing a speed camera, a driver immediately slows his car, because he is aware that he is being watched; he fears the consequences of speeding. Likewise a person who undergoes spiritual training will always feel the presence of Allāh ta’ala and will always remember, wherever he may be that: ‘Allāh ta’ala is watching me!’”

wa'alaykumus salaam word of caution: if anyone wishes to donate, please email Islamic teachings and avoid posting emails/addresses here. Use the "contact us" option on the top bar of the home page Jazaakumullaahu khayraa

What is Piety? Rasulullah Sallallahu Alayhi Wa Sallam has stated: “Piety is beautiful character and sin is what agitates your conscience and what you fear being revealed in public.” (Muslim) “Verily truth is piety, and piety guides to Paradise. While falsehood is immorality, and immorality leads to the Fire.” (Daarimi) “Verily, Allah looks neither at your physique nor at your wealth but He looks at your heart and your deeds.” (Muslim) Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians 223 Alpine Road, Overport, Durban

BIOGRAPHY OF SAYYID ABUL HASAN ALI NADWI (Rahmatullaahi 'alayhi) Exemplar of Islamic Living, Exponent of Islam, Defender of Islamic Identity (1914 – 31 December, 1999 Biography.pdf

Taqleed made easy- For beginners By Mufti Muhammad ibn Adam Al Kawthari Must Listen if you wish to understand why there is need to follow a Madhab

Alhamdulillah! Ban Removed www.birminghammail.co.uk/news/local-news/birmingham-metro... Birmingham Metropolitan College drops controversial Muslim veil ban 12 Sep 2013 21:00 College announces policy U-turn ahead of student demonstration after petition attracts 8,000 signatures in two days A city college was forced to drop its controversial ban on Muslim face veils – less than 24 hours before a mass demonstration by hundreds of students. The astonishing U-turn by Birmingham Metropolitan College came after a protest petition attracted a staggering 8,000 signatures in just 48 hours. Hundreds of students planned to gather outside the Matthew Boulton city-centre campus at 2.30pm on Friday to voice their opposition to the policy, which was criticised by city councillors and MPs. On Thursday night, in the face of the furore, the college announced its humiliating climbdown. A statement said: “We are concerned that recent media attention is detracting from our core mission of providing high quality learning. As a consequence, we will modify our policies to allow individuals to wear specific items of personal clothing to reflect their cultural values. “The college will still need to be able to confirm an individual’s identity in order to maintain safeguarding and security. “We have listened to the views of our students and we are confident that this modification to our policies will meet the needs of all of our learners and stakeholders.” The Mail reported on Tuesday how education bosses had introduced a ban on all face coverings, including the niqab, for ‘security’ reasons, along with hoodies and caps. But the National Union for Students condemned the ban and an online protest petition had attracted 8,000 names within two days. Speaking before the decision to drop the ban, Aaron Kiely, Black Students Officer for the union, said: “This ban is a complete infringement on the rights to religious freedom and cultural expression and is a clear violation of a woman’s right to choose. “Women in Britain are rightly free to wear religious dress. We will be exploring all options to robustly challenge this outrageous decision. “We call on Birmingham Metropolitan College to reverse its decision and respect the fundamental rights of its diverse student population to freedom of thought, conscience, religion and cultural expression.” The under-fire college said the policy had been in place for some time and had been designed to protect students. In defending the original decision, a statement from college principal Dame Christine Braddock said: “To ensure that safeguarding is a priority, we have developed our policy alongside student views to ensure we keep them safe. “This needs individuals to be easily identifiable at all times when they are on college premises and this includes the removal of hoodies, hats, caps and veils.” The decision was also attacked by senior councillors in the city and MPs. Coun Waseem Zaffer, chairman of the council’s social cohesion board, said the college should be more concerned with failing ethnic minority students than “silly policy making”, in an open letter to Dame Braddock. “Whilst I recognise fully the priority of safeguarding learners from harm I cannot see, however, how the banning of veils contributes to the safeguarding agenda as I very much suspect that those learners who choose to wear the veil will indeed feel that no one is safeguarding their choice for cultural dress,” he said. “I am also deeply concerned about your success rates for apprenticeships, especially for learners from a minority background. “It would appear that learners from some of our most disadvantaged communities, and arguably the ones who need the most support (African-Caribbean and Pakistani) are not doing anywhere near as well as learners from other backgrounds – and this saddens me immensely as many of my constituents have an African-Caribbean or Pakistani heritage.” Shabana Mahmood, Labour MP for Ladywood, had previously said she was “deeply concerned” by the ban . “For those that choose to wear the full veil, it is an important article of faith,” she said. “I am deeply concerned that other colleges may follow suit, as a result of the which increasing numbers of women will be locked out of education and skills training.” A Muslim woman was granted permission to wear her full-face veil while entering a plea in court yesterday – after a judge initially forbade it. The woman, who denies a charge of witness intimidation, had previously been told she would have to show her face so she could be “conclusively identified” by Judge Peter Murphy at Blackfriars Crown Court in London. She refused, arguing the face covering was essential for religious reasons as she was in the presence of men. The same judge yesterday backed down and allowed her to wear her niqab while entering a not guilty plea.

Question and Answer: Q. please explain whether putting braces to straighten a persons skew teeth is permissible.Is this not also changing what Allah has created or the way Allah has created a person? (Question published as received) A. It is permissible as this is considered to be a rectification of the teeth and not changing Allah's creation. Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

aameen

Asslamo Allaikum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuh, Birmingham Metropolitan College (UK) with roughly 9,000 teenage Muslim students has decided to BAN NIQAB for Security reasons! This is a slap in the face of every decent human being who is proud of the multicultural history and heritage of Birmingham. Waseem Zaffar (Chair BCC O&S Social Cohesion & Community Safety Committee) is acutely aware of the situation. Discussions are ongoing and protests are being planned. This thread will be used to keep everyone updated with the situation. All Muslims are requested to make dua to Allah (SWT), seek forgiveness for their sins and beseech for Allah (SWT)'s Mercy because He (SWT) is the Most Merciful of those who show Mercy! All Muslims are requested to stand united because this isn't a Deobandi/Salafi/Tableeghi issue but an issue of Islam All Muslims are requested to only post information which is credible and verified All Muslims are requested touse all possible means at their disposal to raise awareness about this issue.. More will be posted as it becomes available. Jazakallahu Khairun Full Details

EXPOSING ONE’S REAR IN SALAAH! Salaah being the time of presenting oneself in the Divine Court of Allah Ta’ala requires a certain decorum and respect. As certain occasions demand a certain dress code, the Masjid also demands the same. It is truly lamentable that we find individuals in many Masjids, going into Ruku and Sajdah and simultaneously exposing their rear end due to improper attire. Firstly, the Islamic ruling is that if 1/8 of the area of the buttocks is exposed on account of carelessness and lack of concern, the Salaah will be invalidated instantly. If it is exposed involuntarily or mistakenly for the duration of reciting Subhaana Rabbiyal Azeem/Aa'laa three times, the Salaah will also be invalidated. Secondly, the demand of the Masjid is proper attire. Revealing attire is not only disrespectful to the Masjid, it is disrespectful to the Musallees behind you to whom your rear is exposed. At the very least we should keep a Kurta or Jubba in our cars for whenever we perform Salaah or use the Masjid Jubbas when performing Salaah at the Masjid. In this way the sanctity of the Masjid is preserved as well as the validity of our Salaah. NB. This ruling applies to females as well, but is stricter in its application as a female’s back above the waistline must also be compulsorily covered. Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians 223 Alpine Road, Overport, Durban

House of Fatimah (may Allah be pleased with her) This door (intricately patterned metal doors, heavily secured with antique locks), on the eastern side of the Roza Mubarak marks the place where the door of the house of Ali (may Allah be pleased with him) and his wife Fatima (may Allah be pleased with her) was located. Fatima (may Allah be pleased with her) was the youngest and most beloved daughter of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him).This was the residence of Fatimah and her husband Ali and their five esteemed children, Hasan, Hussein, Mohsin (who died in childhood) Umme Kulthoom and Zainab RadhiAllahu anhum. References: History of Madinah Munawwarah – Dr. Muhammad Ilyas Abdul Ghani & Almiskeenah

The Dwellings of the Wives of the Prophet sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam Layout of Hujraat (Dr. Imtiaz Ahmed) Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) was buried in the house of Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) in whose house he was staying at the time of his death. The wives of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) lived in small, simple huts adjacent to the masjid. Each hut consisted of a room which was approximately 5m x 4m with a small backyard and were made of unbaked bricks of mud with branches of palm tree as a roof covering. Sauda & Hafsa On the left side of the hut of Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) was the hut of Sauda (may Allah be pleased with her), the second wife of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him). The hut of Hafsa (may Allah be pleased with her), another wife of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him) and the daughter of Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) was on the opposite side. There used to be a very narrow street between their houses, just enough for one person to walk through. Aisha (may Allah be pleased with her) and Hafsa (may Allah be pleased with her) used to converse with each other while sitting in their own huts. Part of the hut of Hafsa (may Allah be pleased with her) was located inside the present Sacred Chamber and part of it is where visitors stand for salutation to the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be on him). (Notes from Islamic Landmarks) From Almiskeenah Hujuratu Ummahatil Mu’mineen and other adjacent features. The heart swims in an elixir of sweetness as it is carried back to when these rooms were of clay bricks, ceilings of dried date palm leaves, doorways covered with the hides of animals or thick sack cloth. Compacted earthen floors blessed by the noble feet of all the beloved wives RadhiAllahu anhunna of our Blessed Rasul SallAllahu alaihi wasallam as they tended to their daily chores and welcomed others into their modest and humble rooms. Spaces that witnessed our Beloved Nabi SallAllahu alaihi wasallam performing domestic tasks, receiving revelations, entertaining his guests, playing with his grandsons, fare welling loved ones. Walls that he SallAllahu alaihi wasallam passed in and out of and that protected him from the elements for ten years. SubhanAllah. By familiarizing ourselves with the details of how these most blessed rooms on the face of the earth were kindles a love that flames the desire to be closer and to help quell the longing for ostentation. Our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam had he wished, could have built lofty mansions and palaces, but he chose the bliss of the Hereafter as his focus, teaching that pomp and show in this life does not equate with success, that all is temporal. Say: The provision of this world is but small, while the next is better for whoever is God-wary. (4:77) Reflecting on how these Hujurat were brings stillness and deepens the understanding of the importance of zuhud, renunciation of that which steals our contemplation from our true purpose here. Junayd Rahmatullah alaih eloquently said about Zuhud: It is seeing the world as insignificant and erasing its vestiges from the heart, and it is that the hand be free of property and the heart of pursuing it. While Shibli Rahmatullah alaih said: It is to abstain from what is other than God Most High. Allow yourself to be transported back…and then assess your own Hujurat. The Hujuraat (Marked by the coloured circles): green: Sayyidatuna Aishah bint Abu Bakr RadhiAllahu anha red: Sayyidatuna Fatimah RadhiAllahu anha yellow: Sayyidatuna Hafsah bint ‘Umat RadhiAllahu anha dark blue: Sayyidatuna Sauda bint Zama RadhiAllahu anha lime: originally Sayyidatuna Zaynab bint Khuzaymah RadhiAllahu anha before her untimely passing, followed by Sayyidatuna Umm Salamah bint Abu Umama RadhiAllahu anha light blue: Sayyidatuna Zaynab bint Jahsh RadhiAllahu anha lilac: Sayyidatuna Juwayriya bint al-Harith RadhiAllahu anha purple: Sayyidatuna Umm Habibah Ramla bint Abu Sufyan RadhiAllahu anha orange: Sayyidatuna Maimoonah RadhiAllahu anha brown: direction of first Qibla to Jerusalem, when there was a southern door to the Masjid (large pink) burgundy: Minbar green area: Rowdha Shareef with the mihrab (small royal blue) position at the time of our Beloved Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam. Abwab (Doors) marked by the coloured lines: pink, Bab Baqi, blue Bab Jibreel, green Babun-Nisa. The positions of Bab Salam (lime) and Bab Rahmah (orange) at the time of our Blessed Rasulullah SallAllahu alahi wasallam, realizing that they are now positioned on the walls of the extensions blue X: place where Sayyidna Bilal RadhiAllahu anhu delivered Adhan for Juma’ah, while the orange X indicates where he would stand on the stump of a palm trunk for all other Adhans. green X: marks the place where a frame was erected for the donated bunches of dates to be hung for the Ahle Suffa from various donors. pink X: is the approximate place where the Banu Thaqeef pitched their tent when they traveled from Taif seeking teachings from our Blessed Rasulullah SallAllahu alahi wasallam.

To know or not to know Once, the people of the city invited Mulla Nasruddin to deliver a speech. When he got on the minbar (pulpit), he found the audience was not very enthusiastic, so he asked "Do you know what I am going to say?" The audience replied "NO", so he announced "I have no desire to speak to people who don't even know what I will be talking about" and he left. The people felt embarrassed and called him back again the next day. This time when he asked the same question, the people replied "YES" So Mullah Nasruddin said, "Well, since you already know what I am going to say, I won't waste any more of your time" and he left. Now the people were really perplexed. They decided to try one more time and once again invited the Mullah to speak the following week. Once again he asked the same question - "Do you know what I am going to say?" Now the people were prepared and so half of them answered "YES" while the other half replied "NO". So Mullah Nasruddin said "The half who know what I am going to say, tell it to the other half" and he left!