ummtaalib

Lectures of Moulana Naeem Motala Saheb DB (Son in law of Shaykh Yunus Patel Raheemahullah) at Musjid-e-Noor ~ Asherville ~ Durban ~ South Africa Audio List at Veiled Gems

Khanqah Ashrafiya Islamiya Hazrat Mawlana Shah Abdul Hamid Is'haq Saheb Principal of Daarul Uloom Azaadville, South Africa and A Senior Khalifa of Hadhrat Maulana Shah Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb (DB) Hadhrat Maulana Abdul Hamid Ibn Ibrahim Ishaq Sahib was born on the 24th of Shawwal 1364 AH (20th September 1946) on the auspicious day of Jumuah at 1 p.m. (the time of Jumuah) in Primrose, a district of Germiston, on the East Rand, as recorded by his father on the back of his birth certificate. Hadhrat Maulana Sahib grew up in difficult conditions. The dwelling of Hadhrat Maulana's family was a stable which had been converted into a house. At the young age of nine, Hadhrat Maulana lost his mother, Amina. (May Allah Jalla Jalaaluhu shower her Qabr with His mercy). Maulana attained his Maktab education at Madrasah Quwwatul-Islam in Germiston. Amongst his Asaatizah, were: Maulana Fakhruddin Sahib (RA), Hafiz Muhammad Salloo Sahib (RA), Maulana Ahmed Bera Sahib (RA) and Apa Zubeida (RA). Maulana attended the Singh Indian Primary School in Germiston up to standard five (1370-1376/1952-1958). Thereafter, he proceeded to William Hills High School in Benoni where he completed his Matric (1377-1381/1959-1963). In 1382/1964 (at the age of 17), Hadhrat Maulana enrolled at the Waterval Islamic Institute (Mias Farm) to study the Aalim Course. There, over a period of five years, Maulana studied various Kitaabs, including Hidaaya Awwalain and Jalaalain, under the expert tuition of Asaatiza such as: Mufti Ibrahim Sanjalwi Sahib (RA), Mufti Bashir Sanjalwi Sahib (RA), and Maulana Ibrahim Mia Sahib (DB). During this very period Maulana utilized whatever free time was available for the memorisation of the Quraan Majeed which he completed under the renowned Ustaadh of Hifz, Hadhrat Hafiz Abdur Rahmaan Mia Sahib (RA). Thereafter in 1388 AH (1969), at the age of 22 Maulana travelled to India and took admission in the world famous institute, Darul Uloom Deoband. The following year (1389) Hadhrat Maulana completed the Aalim-Fadhil course, studying Bukhari Sharief under Hadhrat Maulana Fakhruddin Sahib (RA) and Mufti Mahmud Hasan Gangohi Sahib (RA). After qualifying, Maulana spent an additional year at Deoband, solely to make effort on the Quraan Majeed (revision and Tajweed.) When Hadhrat Maulana had arrived in India, Maulana took Bay'at at the hands of Hadhrat Shaikhul Hadeeth, Maulana Muhammad Zakariyyah Sahib(RA) and had established an Islaahi Ta'alluq with Hadhrat Mufti Mahmud Hasan Gangohi Sahib (RA). Before returning to South Africa, Hadhrat Maulana went to Saharanpur to spend Ramadaan in the auspicious company of his mentor. It was during this period that Hadhrat Maulana was informed of the passing away of his father, Ibrahim Bhai, who had passed away on the 29th of Ramadan at the age of 63, due to a heart attack. (May Allah Allah Jalla Jalaaluhu shower his Qabr with His Mercy) On his return from India, Hadhrat Maulana took up the post of Imamat at the Germiston Masjid. Together with Imamat, Maulana taught Maktab and later taught Hifz, and devoted himself to the effort of the Tablighi Jamaat. Maulana had a great fervour and interest to translate the Kitaabs and great works of our Akaabireen (religious elders) from the Urdu language into English. For this, Maulana thought that he should do a course in journalism so that he may have a better command of the language, etc. On application for the course, he was informed that a bachelors degree had to be done first. Maulana thus did his B.A.with Unisa, through correspondence. In 1396 (1976), after completing his B.A. with distinctions, majoring in Arabic and Linguistics, Maulana spent 1 year in Jamaat, in Pakistan, India and Sri Lanka, together with his wife. After completion of the 1 year in Jamaat, the Rand Afrikaans University approached Mias Farm as they required a lecturer in Islamic studies. Mias Farm referred them to Hadhrat Maulana. Maulana made mashwarah concerning this with the Ulama of Mias Farm, as well as with Marhoom Bhai Padia Sahib (Rahmatullahi Alayh). It was eventually decided that Maulana accept the offer. Thus, Maulana became a lecturer at RAU. Maulana not only lectured the students, Maulana also taught lecturers from the Pretoria University, Potchefstroom University, University of the Witwatersrand (Wits) and other Universities. During this period, RAU offered Maulana the option to do his BA Honours, which he did. Maulana lectured at RAU in 1977 and 1978. The University, being pleased with Maulanas results, registered him for his M.A. and doctorate for which only one thesis each had to be written. After having accepted the post, and whilst studying, Hazrat Maulana realized that the university had only requested for Maulana to come in as a lecturer, to further their agenda to harm Muslims. Since then, Maulana has publicly repented for studying for these degrees and lecturing at the university, and hopes that that would be an eye-opener for others. Thereafter in 1979, Maulana left for his second one-year, travelling to countries such as Holland, Belgium, Turkey, France and the UK.On return, Maulana gave up university studies and lecturing, and continued with Imamat, teaching Hifz and the Aalim Course in Germiston. In 1401 (1981), many more students desired to do the Aalim Course under Maulana. Great efforts were made to accommodate them in Germiston, but this did not materialize. In the Khanqah of Hadhrat Shaikhul-Hadeeth, Maulana Muhammad Zakariyyah Saheb, Mashwarah took place as to Maulana moving to Azaadville to establish a Darul Uloom there. Finally in 1402(1982) Maulana moved to Azaadville and established the Darul Uloom there, with the Fadhl of Allah. In 1994, Hadhrat Maulana took bayat to Hadhrat Aarif-Billah Shah Maulana Hakim Muhammad Akhtar Sahib (Daamat Barakaatuhum). Hadhrat Maulana thereafter accompanied his honourable Shaikh for Umrah. On the Mubarak day of Jumuah, in front of the Kabah Sharief, in front of the Mizaab-e-Rahmat, after the Asr Salaah, Maulana was blessed with Khilafat. Despite old age, illness, and the responsibilities of the Darul-Uloom, which rest upon Hadhrat Maulanas shoulders, Hadhrat Maulanas deep hearted passion to spread the message of the love of Allah (JallaJalaaluhu) has caused Hadhrat Maulana to travel the length and breadth of his country as well as many countries of the world. May Allah Allah (Jalla Jalaaluhu) bless Hadhrat Maulana with long life, good health, the strength to continue in his blessed endeavours and Divine acceptance. Ameen

The Seven Masaajid at the Site of the Battle of the Trench Of the many historical and archaeological sites in Madinah, visitors are most likely to visit a group of small masaajid, commonly known as “The Seven Mosques.” There are actually six masaajid but people add a seventh one known as the “Mosque of the Two Qiblas” which is about a kilometer away from the others. These sites are connected to the Battle of the Trench. A trench was dug to defend Madinah when the Quraish along with other tribes marched towards Madinah. Each Masjid is at the site of the place where various Sahabah had their command points during the Battle. Masjid Al-Fath is where our Beloved Prophet sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam made du'a for victory. The largest of the seven mosques is Al-Fath on a hilltop near the western side of Sal’ mountain. It was built when Umar ibn Abd Al-Aziz was governor of Madinah in the years 87 to 93 after Hijrah (705 CE to 711 CE). It was rebuilt in 575 H (1179 CE). It was then rebuilt again during the reign of the Ottoman Sultan Abd Al-Majid I in 1851. (arabnews) The New & Old Masjid Al-Fath It is the place where Prophet sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam prayed continuously for three days for Allah ta'ala to grant victory over the enemy. The Salman Al-Farisi Mosque is located south of Al-Fath Mosque, 20 meters from the base of Sal' mountain. It is named after Salman, the companion of the Prophet (peace be upon him) who recommended digging a trench to fortify the city from an invasion. It has one hall at 7 meters long and 2 meters wide. It was also built while Umar ibn Abd Al-Aziz was governor of Madinah. In 575 H (1179 CE) it was rebuilt on the orders of minister Said Al-Deen Abu Al-Haija. It was rebuilt again during the reign of the Ottoman Sultan Abd Al-Majid I. Looking down on Masjid Salman Farsi in the foreground, Masjid ‘Umar behind it to the right, a dilapidated building in the middle of the car park, and the new Masjid of the Seven Mosques to the left. (Al-Miskeenah) The Abu Bakr Al-Siddeeq Mosque is 15 meters to the southwest of Salman Al-Farisi Mosque. It was reported that Abu Bakr, when he was caliph, prayed Eid prayer there. This is why it was named after him. It was also reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) prayed the Eid prayer there. The Umar ibn Al-Khattab Mosque is 10 meters to the south of Abu Bakr Mosque, opposite Al-Ghamamah mosque and close to the Prophet's Mosque. There is not much historical detail about the mosque, but there is speculation that it could be the ancient mosque at Al-Durrah place where Umar may have prayed during his reign as caliph. This would explain why it was named after him. It has an open yard and is eight steps above the ground. Its structure is similar to Al-Fath Mosque, which indicates that the two structures may have been built and renovated together. The Ali ibn Abi Talib Mosque is east of Fatimah Mosque on a high rectangular hilltop. It is 8.5 meters long and 6.5 meters wide. It has one small step. It is likely to have been built and renovated with Al-Fath Mosque. The Fatimah Al-Zahra Mosque is known as Mus'ad ibn Mo'az Mosque. It is the smallest of the group and measures 4 meters by 3 meters. It has one small step. It has a similar structure to other mosques in the area and may have been built during the Ottoman era, most likely during the reign of Sultan Abd Al-Majid I in 1851. (arabnews.com) *Note that some of these Masaajid have now been demolished or entry restricted (From Al-Miskeenah) Al-Saba’a Masaajid Masjid This one large Masjid symbolically represents the original seven places the Prophet SallAllahu alaihi wasallam and various Sahabah RadhiAllahu anhum established strategic command points during the digging of the ditch and the subsequent Battle of the Trench.

(The following are some advices that were given to some of the students going for Haj by Hadhrat Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (db), Hadhrat Moulana Ilyaas Patel (db) and other Asaatidhah of the Madrasah) Sunniforum.com Purpose and Intention When embarking on such a trip make the following intentions: 1. Solely for the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala. 2. To visit the mubaarak Raudha, grave of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). 3. To change your life and the lives of your beloved ones. General Advice 1. Take along couple of suitcases of Sabar (patience). 2. Leave behind (i.e. at home) three things: I. Anger. II. Expectations & comfort. III. Excitement and panic. 3. Always maintain a smiling face. 4. Restrain your anger. Do not quarrel or fight with anyone, though it may be their fault. 5. Do not engage in gheebah at all. This will nullify the reward of all your efforts. 6. As far as possible, avoid the company of people you know without hurting their feelings. 7. Remain in the state of wudhu at all times in Makkah and Madinah. 8. Daily give sadaqah even if it is only one riyaal a day. 9. Ensure that you perform all your Nafl and Sunnah Salaah in these holy lands. Be regular with Chaast, Ishraaq, Awwaabeen and also the sunnats and Nafl Salaah before and after the Faraaidh. 10. Enquire about the times and venues of the majaalis of the Akaabir. Sit in their gatherings even if you have to leave out your other nafil ibaadah at that time. 11. Do not take any pictures of the Ka’bah shareef or the Green Dome on your cell phone. It may amount to disrespect. There are many pictures available. 12. Speak with respect to the police. Remember: “They are always right.” 13. Do not speak anything against these places or their inhabitants. 14. Wish well for everyone and have a good opinion about everyone. 15. At all times try and make this dua in your heart, “O Allah ! Protect me, correct me and guide me”. 16. Make khidmah of your companions, relatives and other Hajis as much as possible, even though it may disrupt your nafl ibaadah. 17. Instead of drinking cool drink, drink as much Zam Zam as possible. 18. Do not waste too much time in shopping. Remember the worst of places is the bazaar. 19. Instead of bringing back presents for your family and friends, bring back the fear of Allah Ta’ala from Makkah and the sunnah of Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) from Madinah. 20. Read Fazaail-e-Haj thoroughly before going, as well as when you are there. This is necessary for spiritual preparation. 21. Draw up a daily programme for yourself i.e. how many paras tilaawat, zikr, munajaat e maqbul, nafl Salaah etc. you will be reciting daily. 22. On the flight engage in zikr, tilaawat, or reading of some authentic Islamic book. Do not even attempt to read the “in flight magazine.” 23. Prepare a list of duas as well as a list of people for whom you will make dua for in the Haram and other sanctified places (Do not forget to include me in your duas). 24. Recite “Sayyidul Istigfaar” at least thrice after every Salaah. 25. Before returning home from the holy lands, make lots of taubah and istigfaar. Do not ever boast about your Haj and Umrah to anyone. Makkah Mukarramah 1. Keep in mind the sanctity of the place. All the Ambiyaa, Sahaabah, Tabieen and Auliyaa frequented this place. 2. Protect your eyes from Haraam. Whatever spirituality you attain could be lost through sinful gazes. 3. Do not offend anyone in the Haram. There are always approximately 360 Auliyaa in the Haram at all times. It must not happen that the person you offend is a Wali of Allah Ta’ala. 4. Make as many Tawaaf as possible for everyone. In his old age, Hadhrat Mufti Mahmood Hasan Saheb (rahmatullahi alaihi) used to make upto 50 Tawaaf in one day. Excessive Tawaaf in Makkah is better than nafl Umrah's. 5. Try and stay in the Haram from Asr to Esha daily or at the least from Maghrib to Esha. 6. Do not fear heat or crowd to make Tawaaf. Anytime is a good time. Make Tawaaf at midday. The crowd is at its least at this time. Make at least five Tawaaf a day but try for ten. 7. Manyof our Akaabir/Ulama sit behind the hateem area. 8. Make tawaaf on behalf of all your beloved ones, Marhoomeen, etc. 9. Do not make Tawaaf downstairs in the last 2/3 days before Haj. 10. Make at least one khatam of Qur’aan in Makkah. You will receive the reward of 100 000 khatams. 11. Remember all those who did some ihsaan (good) to you and make dua for them. 12. Make dua for ilm e nubuwat and noor e nubuwat. 13. Make dua that Allah Ta’ala blesses you and your children with 5 things. Ilm, Amal, Izzat, Aafiyat, Iffat (purity). 14. Make dua first for Aakhirat then for your worldly needs. 15. The Hajr-e-Aswad has a sealing effect. It seals on you whatever frame of mind you are in. If you are determined to change your life, it will seal that on you, and if you are bent on remaining on your old ways then you will return home worse than the day you left. Madinah Munawarrah: 1. When visiting the Raudha Mubaarak, keep in mind the Hadith: “Whosoever visits my Qabr, my intercession becomes binding upon him.” 2. Take ghusl, wear your best clothes and apply Itr before going to make salaam at the Raudha Mubaarak. 3. Recite 1000 time Surah Kausar before coming into Madinah Shareef. 4. Give Sadqa before going to the Raudha Mubaarak. 5. Go to the Raudha Mubaarak at least twice a day to convey salaams. Thereafter after every Salaah from wherever you are in the Haram, convey Salaams to Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). 6. After entering the Musjidun Nabawi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam), read 2 rakaats tahiyyatul Masjid, then make lots of Istigfaar and dua, thereafter proceed to confer salaam upon our Master, Sayyidinah Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). It is better to read a short salaam that you know rather than reading from a book or card etc. 7. Recite once"... ان الله وملائكته يصلون علي النبي " 70times الصلوة و السلام عليك يارسول اللهthen read thereafter seek intercession in these words: يارسول الله اسئلك الشفاعة واتوسل بك الى الله في ان اموت مسلما على ملتك وسنتك 8. Thereafter convey the salaams of anyone who requested you to do so in these words: السلام عليك يارسول الله من جميع من اوصاني بالسلام عليك . 9. Compulsorily read the section on Madinah in Fazaail e Haj. 10. Recite 1000 times durood shareef daily. 11. Recite 40 durood and Salaam daily. (Take a pocket size one and keep it with you at all times. Every free moment you get, take it out and recite it). 12. Do not engage in any conversations in Musjid e Nabawi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). Feel the presence of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam). 13. Read two rakaats shukar Salaah often and thank Allah Ta’ala for bringing you to this mubaarak place. The more we make shukar the more we will be blessed with visiting these mubaarak places. 14. Make the dua of Hadhrat Umar (radiyallahu anhu): “O Allah grant me Martyrdom in Your path and allow my death to take place in the city of Rasulullah (sallallahu alaihi wasallam).” 15. In Madinah make ta’leem of Fazaail e Haj, (section on Madinah). 16. Try and visit Uhud on a Thursday as this is Mustahab. Recite Aayatul Kursi once, Surah Takaasur once and Surah Ikhlaas 11 times and then recite Surah Yaseen and convey the rewards to the martyrs of Uhud. 17. Visit Musjid e Quba on a Saturday, as this is sunnat. It is also sunnah to walk and go. It is advisable to leave immediately after Fajar Salaah (+ 25 minutes walk). 18. Visit Musjid e Fatah on a Wednesday after Zuhr Salaah. It is the experience of our elders that whatever duas are made here after Zuhr on a Wednesday is definitely accepted. 19. Take sadaqah monies to distribute to the poor in Madinah. Most of the cleaners in and out of the Haram are extremely needy. Spend liberally on them. 20. Make at least one khatam of the Qur’aan in Madinah. You will receive the reward of 50 000 khatams. 21. Try and visit Jannatul Baqee every so often, (a good time is after Ishraaq Salaah) and make dua that Allah Ta’ala reserves a place for you in Baqee. Travel Tips 1. Travel as light as possible. 2. Have a shawl with you at all times. 3. Practice wearing your Ihraam at home before you leave for Umrah. 4. Do a practice run of your Umrah / Ziyaarat by some learned Aalim before leaving home. 5. Buy sim card for your cell phone. 6. Carry one set of clothing in your hand luggage. It will come in handy in the event of luggage getting lost. 7. Check if toilet and bed in your hotel room is facing qiblah or not. Many a times the toilets and beds do face the qiblah. Be careful in this regard. 8. Carry a shoe bag to the Haram. 9. Carry an empty 500ml water bottle in your shoe bag. You can fill it up with zam zam every time you go to the Haram to drink in your room. 10. Take a small shoulder bag for the 5 days of Haj. 11. Carry small pebble bag/packet for stones to pick up at Muzdalifa for Rami at Jamaraat. (70 pebbles in total per person) 12. Take sufficient amount of pad-kos only. Do not take extra, because it gets wasted. 13. Carry Hizbul A’zam / Munajaat Maqbul and 40 durood and salaam to recite daily. (Preferably pocket size). 14. Wear comfortable shoes as there is lot of walking to do. Diabetics must take special care. Things to Take along 1. Clothes 2. Towels 3. Shoe bag for haram 4. Tawaaf tasbeeh 5. Ihraam 6. Pocket size umrah guide 7. Ihram belt or moon bag 8. Vest with pockets for money 9. Waist coat with a lot of pockets 10. Wazeefah kitaabs – Punjsurah 11. Cosmetic bag with nail clipper, soap, tooth brush, tooth paste etc. 12. Non-perishable foods. Chips, biscuits, rusks etc. 13. Pen, diary, pocket note book (very important) 14. Shawl 15. Miswaak 16. Pad Kos – not too much 17. Basic medication – Panadol, asthma pump etc. 18. Mozaas 19. Small pocket / utility knife

Signs of the Acceptance of Hajj The mashaikh have written that there are many signs that Allah has accepted the pilgrim’s Hajj. Hadrat Ashraf Ali Thanvi i writes that the first of these signs is that upon leaving this sacred land the pilgrim has an intense desire in his heart to return for another Hajj. Such people are fortunate because Allah accepts their deed and ignites a flame of desire in their hearts that will keep them yearning for Makkah. In contrast there are those unfortunate wretches who leave with nothing but complaints and vow not to return because they had such a bad experience. Such people return empty handed because their Hajj is not accepted. The Inner Self Revealed Bait Ullah has such an incredible effect on people that a person’s true inner condition becomes exposed whenever he comes in front of it and sends his greetings upon Hajr-e-Aswad. A person might be a habitual backbiter and slanderer. Hence when he appears before Bait Ullah his heart will burst open exposing his true nature for all to see. Thus such a person will become obsessed with slandering others despite being in the blessed House of Allah. He will not be able to stop himself from slandering others even in this sacred location because the power of Bait Ullah will have exposed him for what he truly is. Consequently the same applies to the righteous servants of Allah whose condition is purified even more because they are righteous and grateful. Such people will tolerate all difficulties presented at Hajj for the sake of Allah and count them as blessings. This is the reason why some people return cleansed of their sins and rectified whereas others return worse than they were before. The difference is that the Hajj of the former party is accepted whilst the Hajj of the others is not, and so the latter continue down the path of wretchedness. Acceptance of our Hajj is the biggest reason why we must cry and beg to Allah on this sacred journey. We must cry so much that Allah accepts us if only out of pity. Our righteous elders would weep and beg for years so Allah would accept their Hajj and turn their lives around. Acceptance through Humility A righteous man had completed seventy Hajj, and was now leaving for his last Hajj together with his son. Both of them donned the ihram but when they proclaimed “Labbaik!” they heard a voice that said “La Labbaik!” meaning that their Labbaik was not accepted. Hearing this voice the son said to his father, “What is the use of continuing if our Labbaik is not accepted? Take off the ihram.” The father turned to his son and said, “My son, I heard the same voice when I performed my first Hajj and now am hearing it again on my seventieth Hajj. Tell me if there is anywhere else we can go or any other door where we can beg from other than that of Allah? I have to come here again and again whether He accepts or not because there is no other door at which I can ask.” Allah accepted these words from his servant and inspired him thus: “We have accepted all your past Hajj because of your humility today.”

Various Conveyances Hadrat Ibrahim bin Adham i was on his way to Hajj on foot when someone asked him his destination. He answered that he was going to Hajj and so the man was surprised because on foot this would be an insurmountable journey and said, “But you need transportation for Hajj.” Hadrat Ibrahim bin Adham i replied that he not only had a means of transportation but also had many such means. The man was perplexed by this reply because he could not see any such mode of transport and asked Hadrat to show him. Hadrat Ibrahim bin Adham i said: “When in difficulty I will rely on patience as my transportation, and when I am blessed I will use gratitude as my transport. During sorrow I will rely on inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’oon to carry me, and on La hawla wa la quwatta illa billa to carry me whenever combating nafs and Satan. If I encounter any circumstances of sin I have the vehicle of tawba to see me through. If someone bigger confronts me I will use the vehicle of Allahu Akbar, and I shall complete my Hajj using these different means at every point.”

Vast Knowledge of Our Elders Hadrat Ghulam Habib i once related that at one Hajj he would read the Holy Quran and supplicate to Allah at the completion of every verse depending on whether the verse inspired love or fear. He completed the entire Holy Quran in this fashion, having offered more than a hundred supplications. These people were indeed fortunate because they understood the realities of Allah’s infinite bounties. It is obvious that we are the losers because we do not understand such things because we do not even know how to ask. Acceptance of Dua We may not know the exact times at which duas are accepted, but hadith has told us that there are seventeen key locations at Hajj where duas are accepted. Hujjaj should make a point of learning these key locations so they may be able to offer prayers here and beg from Allah. No one knows the blessed moment when Allah may accept a particular dua or prostration from his servant. The difference between the Hajj of the righteous beings of Allah and that of common people is that of night and day.

Mercy of Allah The Messenger of Allah said there is a special and blessed location between Rukn-e-Yamani and Hajr-e-Aswad where seventy thousand angels stay constantly attentive and say “Ameen” in unison to the supplications of the pilgrims performing tawaf. Such people are tremendously fortunate to have Allah’s angels saying “ameen” to their desires and needs. This is a journey of intense desire and love in which the beloved gives much more than the lover deserves, for this Beloved has infinite treasures. We might pay a worker in our home his earned wages and nothing more, but Allah listens to our every need and desire and gives us even more than the wages that we may have earned. In this journey of love and desire the individual will receive what he had yearned and worked for. The devotee runs out of requests but the Beloved’s treasures never diminish for His treasures are infinite. This is a stream from which everyone can drink from because it never dries.

Most Generous of Hosts The hujjaj are guests of Allah at Hajj, as He commanded Hadrat Ibrahim e to announce an open invitation to all to come worship at His House. Allah is the Supreme Host, and takes great care of His guests even more than we honor someone who may come to our house. The Messenger of Allah said that even the person who sits and looks upon Bait Ullah is a recipient of Allah’s countless blessings. We are unfortunate in that we do not recognize His supreme hospitality, otherwise we would be in Paradise on Earth. Being such an understanding and kind host, Allah has not put any insurmountable difficulty in Hajj. Hajj is not a short prayer that old people would miss because they are slower in performing their ablution or slower to form ranks. Moreover, if this were the case the majority of ladies might miss out on this grand occasion, having spent hundreds to reach there and only to be in their menses and unable to pray at the assigned time. This reasoning is why the only requirement for the pilgrim on the plain of Arafat between the Dhuhr and Isha prayers is just to stay focused and attentive to Allah (wuquf). In wuquf the person may offer prayers or supplicate to Allah for anything and for as long as he wants, for Allah has placed no limitations on this wuquf. In this and countless other ways Allah has made Hajj very easy upon the people by allowing for different circumstances and needs rather than restricting their worship to one or few specific acts.

Recognizing the Enemy The lover would hate anyone who tried to keep him away from his beloved or hindered his quest to attain nearness to the same. Satan tries to create a rift between mankind and Allah and so the hujjaj stone the devil at the stone throwing ritual at the Jumurat. Lovers always shower their beloved with gifts as an outpouring of their love and labor hard to be noticed. Likewise the pilgrims also present a sacrifice to Allah at the conclusion of Hajj.

Moths to A Flame Tawaf is the only ritual within Islam that men and women are commanded to perform in the same vicinity, whereas there is separation in all other situations. Men and women are separated in prayer with a partition to cite just one example. This may seem strange because Islam is very strict in terms of male and female interaction but the ulama have written a fascinating explanation for this: The lovers of Allah journey tirelessly for the chance of worshipping at Bait Ullah, and once they reach this magnificent shrine men lose all sense of their masculinity and women likewise lose heed of their femininity, and in maddened desire they focus only on Bait Ullah. Allah wanted to establish for all mankind that His lovers lose all sense of themselves and relinquish all other loves when coming to worship Him. Allah wanted to further establish the reality that His love is paramount and superior to all other loves that may exist. This is truly the case because even husbands and wives focus only on Allah instead of themselves. It is the only occasion when men and women worship and cry in the same vicinity with no thought to one another.

The Lover’s Destination Every journey has a destination and the destination of Hajj is the pleasure of Allah. There are two kinds of hujjaj: those who are fortunate to see (ziyarah) Bait Ullah and those still more fortunate who are able to see the Creator of Bait Ullah. This is why the tawaf (circumambulation) that is performed after the gathering of Arafat is called Tawaf-e-Ziyarah. Those who have worked hard against their evil desires and lower self (nafs) are able to see the bounties of Allah in all their glory, and those who have not obviously cannot partake in this experience. Thus it is essential to have a righteous alim or shaykh in one’s company so that he may guide at every point. Hajj is a journey of love and desire, and upon close examination love is found to be the paramount force in every action within Hajj. As a general rule lovers whose purpose is a specific beloved pursue their quest single mindedly and ignore all else. They make no attempt to beautify themselves like a wife might do for a husband because the one purpose of getting to the beloved overpowers all other desires or concerns. The rites and rituals of Hajj personify this intense desire of the lover. From the beginning of the journey the lover is told to shed all outer décor and don the ihram, two simple and unstitched sheets of white cloth. For the duration of the journey and Hajj itself this lover is not allowed to apply any sort of scent, nor is the lover allowed to trim the hair or nails. Lovers maddened with love and desire usually not only speak of their love but publicize it loudly in chants or poetry. Hence when the lover of Allah starts on this quest he is also commanded to raise his voice and shout that he is coming to his beloved: Labbaik Allahumma labbaik! Our elders who have gone before us understood and practiced the meaning of this cry, and hundreds would receive guidance because of their efforts. Today we go physically but fail to effect any change within ourselves and return exactly as we were and return to our same heedless lives. A lovesick boy stands outside the window or door of his beloved hoping for a sign of recognition. The lover of Allah circles the House of Allah with the same maddened desire like a moth circles a flame.

Purity of Means The most important thing that pilgrims need to be absolutely sure of is the purity of the finances that are spent for Hajj. There should be no doubt whatsoever that the money for every aspect of the journey from travel to lodging arrangements is legally permissible (halal), with not the slightest hint of being prohibited (haram). Hajj will only be accepted if the means used for it are halal. A hadith in relation to this states that a man was crying to Allah as he clutched the draperies of the Kaaba but his supplication was not accepted. This was because his earning was haram, which made his food and clothing haram. Supplication (dua) will never be accepted here because the very means used to come there are haram, and hence the finances used for Hajj need to be absolutely pure. Someone in doubt about the lawfulness of his earnings should discuss the issue with the local ulama in his city. The great ulama of Islam have dedicated their whole lives to the Holy Quran and sunnah and therefore have the knowledge to solve every potential situation. For example in this case of doubt regarding earnings, they have said that such an individual is permitted to complete his Hajj with a loan. Hajj would thus be completed with halal finances and whatever means he uses to pay back the loan is another matter. Points to Ponder The Messenger of Allah said that among the signs of the Endtime would be that the wealthy among the Muslims will go to Hajj for vacation; the poor will go to beg; and the ulama will go to boast of their superiority over the other Muslims. In light of this hadith the hujjaj (pilgrims) must make it a point to never boast of their Hajj to others. They not only risk having it invalidated but Allah may never give them another chance because of their arrogance. On the other hand others may try to justify not going or make the excuse of limited financial resources. These people should keep in mind that the Messenger of Allah said that Allah increases the livelihood and economic means (rizq) of those who perform Hajj and Umra. Allah will also increase His blessings for those who have little but save methodically with the sincere intentions and desire of performing Hajj.

Invaluable Advice Pilgrims must make sure that they are never verbally critical of anything on this sacred journey. Hadrat Ghulam Habib i once told a story about a pilgrim who was shopping in the market in Madinah for groceries. A vendor suggested that he also buy some yogurt but the man declined saying that the yogurt in Madinah is sour. He proceeded about his day and that night the Messenger of Allah appeared to him in a dream. The Prophet was angry and said, “You say the yogurt in my town is sour? Get out of Madinah!” This pilgrim woke up very distressed and approached the local scholars (ulama) as to what he might do. Some of the ulama advised him to go to the noble burial site of Hadrat Hamza and pray to Allah for mercy and a possible solution. This man did exactly this and presented himself at Hadrat Hamza’s tomb where he cried and begged forgiveness for his reckless speech. That night Hadrat Hamza appeared in this pilgrim’s dream and acknowledged the latter’s profuse supplications but put them aside. Hadrat Hamza said sternly, “Once the beloved of Allah has told you to leave you no longer have permission to stay. Leave now or you will be in danger of losing your faith.” Hence this person had no avenue but to leave.

Correcting our Intention The above is a very poignant reason for keeping our complaining tongue in check for the few days that we are at Hajj. Wherever there is great benefit there will undoubtedly be shortcomings of many kinds because Hajj demands a monumental task of preparation in every field from transportation to sleeping arrangements for the pilgrims. We need to keep focused on the purpose of this sacred journey and consider every shortcoming and trial as a blessing for us. Allah is allowing filthy sinners like us to come to His House and so there is no need to make any comments about anything. There have been countless people much more pious than us who have not been fortunate enough to see Bait Ullah. This is a journey of trials and not the luxury that we have unfortunately become accustomed to. For a sincere and pious worshipper these complaints are only for not seeing the House of Allah and disappear immediately once he or she looks upon the Kaaba. The House of Allah has such a brilliant magnetism and awe that one does not consider a hardship as a hardship anymore because a believer realizes true peace and security in the House of Allah just as a child finds security and love in its mother’s arms. Furthermore, Hadrat Ashraf Ali Thanvi i writes that the righteous find peace upon seeing Bait Ullah just as the believers will find peace when they enter Paradise. Here they forget all past worries and trials. Sincerity and Sacrifice The next important thing that pilgrims need to evaluate is sincerity. Undoubtedly sincerity is an essential requirement of every act of worship, but this requirement is given more emphasis here for the auspicious worship of Hajj. The simple reasoning for this is that Hajj is an act that is required only once a lifetime. A worship such as prayer is observed five times a day so if one prayer was offered without sincerity the person can try harder for the next prayer, but Hajj is a special occasion that only comes once a lifetime for most. Hence people need to be extra careful about what might seem to be the smallest issues. Disputes and arguments are a very normal part of life, which may intensify because Hajj is a long journey that people have to undertake together. Arguments may increase between friends or between family and relatives because unfortunately people do not want to listen but want to lead. We need to keep in mind that this journey is sacred and cannot easily be repeated and so there is no need for any kind of argument or dispute whatsoever. We are Muslims and only temporary travelers in this life, so it is not always necessary that we absolutely have to have the best seat on the bus or the best room in the hotel. We should try and make sure that others in our party are more comfortable than we are rather than inconveniencing them so that we are more at ease. This is a journey of trials and we need to learn to compromise.

Correcting our Outlook The lifestyle that we have become accustomed to has spoiled us and we except a limousine to be waiting at the airport to whisk us away and drop us right outside the Haram. There is a system to everything that we must realize and we must be prepared to allow it to run its own course. We need to realize that we are servants whom the Master is allowing to come visit His House and not the other way around. Presidents and kings of this worthless and temporary world make their visitors wait for hours without explanation and we expect the Master of the universe to cater to our every need. To be allowed to come to Hajj is indeed a blessing for which we should be ready to bear double if not triple the usual burden. Hajj is a journey and act of worship and there is always trial in worship no matter what form. If people desire luxury and comfort they are welcome to stay in their beds because no one is forcing them to go to Hajj. However, people must be prepared for hardship if they have already taken the first steps toward anything.

Some Advices Excerpted from The Discourses by Shaykh Zulfiqar Ahmed (db) Tasawwuf .org A Journey of Trial Hajj is not a luxury tour or vacation, and Allah has made hardship a necessary factor in Hajj. Those who depart with the mindset that Hajj is supposed to be easy get impatient and start complaining at the slightest inconvenience. Hence pilgrims need to begin their journey with the knowledge and intention that Hajj is a journey of trials and not one of luxury. We are lovers and not the beloved but yet we expect our every need to be catered to just like we were the beloved. This is a journey only for lovers, and whoever wants to travel as if he is the beloved will find that he will never get the opportunity for this grand journey. Hadrat Ghulam Habib i used to say that he and the pilgrims would depart for Hajj by ship and reach Arabia after a grueling month’s journey. Once reaching Jeddah the ship would remain at port for three days while immigration and immunization status would be verified. Today this same process does not even take a full three hours let alone three days. Advances in technology such as the aircraft have nullified the trials and tribulations that existed in those times and made travel easy for us but people still complain. Today the luxury exists for us to complete the entire Hajj trip in twenty days or less. The pilgrim should not be desirous of hardship but nevertheless be steadfast and prepared for it.

QUESTION> Is it permissible to use mobile in mosques with Islamic tunes. In Masjid-E-Khaif (in Mina) during Haj women stay in women's mosque whereas men stay in men's mosque (usually those who live in K.S.A and go on their own not through any agent). It becomes easy to contact one's mahram on mobile, though man can go at the door of women's section and tell his name to guard and then He/She can call his name on loud speaker. <ANSWER> In the name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful, It is not appropriate to use cell phones in Masjids, unless absolutely necessary, for in entails disturbing those who are engaged in worship (ibadah). To harm and disturb another individual is a sin in itself, let alone when one is engaged in an Ibadah, such as offering Salat. Allah Most High says: “And those who annoy believing men and women undeservedly bear (on themselves) a calumny and a glaring sin.” (Surah al-Ahzab, V.58) And: “And who is more unjust than he who forbids that in places for the worship of Allah, Allah’s name should be celebrated.” (al-Baqarah, V. 114) The solution to the problem in Hajj is that, one may contact one’s family by going out of the Masjid and using the phone. The one who is being contacted should keep his/her phone silent, as not to disturb others who are engaged in worship. Thereafter, he/she may go out of the Masjid and answer the call. And Allah knows best [Mufti] Muhammad ibn Adam Darul Iftaa Leicester , UK

Is it necessary for a woman to cover her face during Ihram <QUESTION> Is it necessary for a woman to cover her face during Ihram (during Umrah/Hajj)? Will she be excused for not covering her face due to the difficulties associated with niqabs hanging from baseball caps? Inshallah as soon as my state of Ihram is complete, I would wear the Niqab but what about during the days of ihram? <ANSWER> In the name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful, The ruling in the Hanafi Madhhab (and even in other madhhabs) is that, although the face is not considered to be part of one’s nakedness (awra), it is necessary to cover it, due to the fitna involved in not doing so. This is the transmitted position in the Hanafi School, as mentioned in virtually all the major fiqh books. Some contemporary scholars have a more lenient approach to this issue, especially for the West. However, my understanding is (according to what I have learnt from my teachers) that a woman is required to cover her face even in the west except in dire situations. As such, if you are travelling for Hajj, and you normally cover your face at home, you must cover it whilst in the state of Ihram also. This covering must be done in a way that the Niqab does not touch the face, such as wearing a cap, etc… Indeed a woman must not have a cloth whilst in Ihram that touches her face. However, at the same time, she should avoid exposing her face in front of non-Mahram men, especially when she is young and when the risk of Fitna is greater. As such, in the presence of non-Mahram men, she should cover her face in a way that no clothing touches her face, by wearing a cap or something else. Even in the days of the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace), the female Companions (Allah be pleased with them) abstained from exposing their faces in front of non-Mahram men. Sayyida A’isha (Allah be pleased with her) narrates that, the (caravan of) riders would pass by us whilst we were in the state of Ihram in the company of the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him & give him peace). When they got close to us, we would draw our outer cloak from our heads over our faces (m, without letting it touch the face) and when they passed by, we would uncover our faces.” (Sunan Abu Dawud, no. 1826) However, if it becomes very difficult, in that it becomes virtually impossible to wear the niqab (even with a cap, etc), and you fear harm onto yourself, then in such a case you will be excused in leaving the face exposed, but try to keep the face away from non-Mahram men whenever reasonably possible. And Allah knows best [Mufti] Muhammad ibn Adam Darul Iftaa Leicester , UK

<QUESTION> Is it permissible for a male to wear a piece of cloth as underwear under the Ihram or is it forbidden? <ANSWER> In the name of Allah, Most Compassionate, Most Merciful, Almost all of the major books in the Hanafi Madhhab are unanimous on the fact that, it is impermissible for a male who is in the state of Ihram to wear something that is sewn, stitched or knitted to the shape of one’s body. Imam al-Haskafi (Allah have mercy on him) states: “After one has made the intention of Ihram, one must refrain from……wearing a shirt, trousers, meaning any clothing that is made in proportion to the shape of the body or part of the body, such as pliers (zardiya) and a cloak.” The great Hanafi Imam, Allama Ibn Abidin (Allah have mercy on him) explains: “This refers to the prohibition (of wearing) anything that is sewn….And it is related in al-Bahr from Ibn Amir Haj al-Halabi, that the criterion in this regard is that, it will not be permissible to wear anything that is made in proportion to the shape of the whole body or part of the body, in a way that it wraps and surrounds the body (or part of it) due to the sewing, joining parts of the clothing to one another or by any other means, and that it stays upright on the body itself by merely wearing it.” (Radd al-Muhtar ala al-Durr, 2/489) It is stated in al-Fatawa al-Hindiyya: “A person in Ihram must not wear anything that is sewn, such as a shirt, cloak, trousers, turban, or socks...And the unlawful sewn clothing is that which is normally worn.” (al-Fatawa al-Hindiyya, 1/224) The meaning of the above (and other) statements is that, any type of clothing that is either sewn, stitched, knitted, wedged, hemmed, weaved or joined in any other way, to the shape of the whole body or to the shape of an organ of the body, it will not be permissible to wear it. Thus, it will not be permissible for a male who is in the state of Ihram to wear a ghallabiyya (or jubba), shirt, trousers, vest, top, sweater, underwear, shorts, cloak, coat, hat, headgear, turban, gloves, and socks, for all of the above fall within the criterion explained above. However, there is no harm in having stitched patching to the Ihram sheets as well as sewing of the loin in the middle, for this is not stitched or sewn to the shape of the whole body. One may also wear slippers under the condition that the bone on the foot where the shoelace is normally placed, remains exposed. If one does not have such slippers, it will also be allowed to cut the socks to the extent of that bone and then wear them. (See: Radd al-Muhtar, 2/490 & other fiqh references) With the above, I hope your query has been answered. And Allah knows best [Mufti] Muhammad ibn Adam Darul Iftaa Leicester , UK

One never tires of gazing at the sight of the House of Allah, the Kaa'ba. The site upon which the mercy and blessings of Allah are constantly descending. There is truly nothing comparable to the House of Allah on this Earth. People wish time would stand still so they could keep gazing at the Kaa'ba; their thirst is never quenched, rather it increases. Once, while on a visit to Washington, people told me that a woman had accepted Islam and had some questions for me. They told me that many non-practicing Muslim women had started practicing again due to her. At prayer time she would dress in her best clothes as if readying herself for someone special, and would become oblivious to everything around her as soon she started praying. After a brief question and answer session, I asked her what prompted her to accept Islam. She sighed and started explaining; "I was a Jew and my husband was a Christian who was posted in Saudi Arabia for some technical work. Everyday I used to see Muslim men and women dressed in white on their way somewhere. I asked my husband where they were going and he told me that they go to perform pilgrimage at the Muslim shrine of Kaa'ba. I expressed a desire to go but he told me that non-Muslims were not allowed. However, I was determined and so we both bought white clothes and set out. Fortunately no one stopped us and we reached Makkah, from where we found directions to the Kaa'ba. Upon seeing the Kaa'ba our eyes froze and time seemed to stand still. When we turned to look at each other after some time, we were both crying. With our eyes we told each other that this was the Truth and we should accept Islam. No one ever told me about Islam, but there were so many blessings descending on that House that they changed my life forever." The blessings of Tawhid descend in Makkah, and the blessings of Prophethood descend in Madinah. One has seen nothing in life if he has not seen these two holy sites. May Allah give all Muslims the opportunity to visit to His House. Source: Excerpt from a speech of Shaikh Zulfiqar - sacredlearning.com

Darb Zubayda These three photos show the remains of the magnificent aqueduct known as Darb Zubayda. Zubayda bint Ja`far ibn Mansur (d.791A.D.) was daughter of the Abbasid caliph Al-Mansur, and cousin of Harun al-Rashid (r.766-809 A.D.), whom she later married (781A.D.). She was the best known of the Abbasid princesses. She and her husband’s exploits are the subjects of The Thousand and One Nights. It is said that her palace ’sounded like a beehive’ because she employed one hundred women maids who had memorized the Qur’an. She is particularly remembered for the contributions she made to the ulema and the poor, and for the series of wells, reservoirs and artificial pools that provided water for Muslim pilgrims along the route from Baghdad to Mecca and Medina. The route was re-named Darb Zubayda, “Zubayda’s Way”. At its height, the route included milestones, 54 major way stations with cisterns, reservoirs or wells, fire signal towers, hostels and fortresses—all paid for by the Abbasid treasury. The people of Makkah received water from this canal for twelve hundred years, with Muslim rulers continuing to repair and maintain it through the centuries until it eventually started to break up. In parts, the monumental stone artistry still seems intact, after all these years of harsh conditions. Going back to the previous post on Arafat, you will notice this same aqueduct surrounding the base of Jabal Rahmah. The views of it hugging the mountain sides, and winding around valleys as a ribbon around a parcel is awesome, and more so given the harsh nature of the landscape it traverses. Harun al-Rashid ruled from 786 to 809. He performed Hajj six or nine times, including the one in 790 which, in fulfillment of a vow, he made entirely on foot. His final one, performed in 804, was the last Hajj ever made by a caliph. It is recorded that a field of carpets would be rolled out on the sand before them each day of traveling! Zubayda made five or six pilgrimages herself. Apart from patronizing the incredible engineering feat of the aqueduct she is also honoured for her efforts in established an abundant drinking water system in Makkah at the time. One of dozens of maintained rest and water stations on the pilgrim road from Iraq to Makkah, this pool at Aqiq, Saudi Arabia, still holds water more than a thousand years after it was constructed under the patronage of Zubayda. Al-Miskeenah

Masjid-e-Miqaat (Zul Hulaifah) This Masjid is Situated Twelve Kilometers Away From Madinah and it is Declared as Meeqat for Pilgrims. Here a Well is Present Which is Called Ali's Well And The Place is Also Called as Abyar-e-Ali. All Buses / Vehicles Going to Makkah Stop Here And Pilgrims Change Into Ihram A Beautiful place to stop and enter Ihraam. There is a beautiful women's section and ample baths/toilets and changing rooms.

The status of women cannot be questionable as Islam has given rights and privileges to women which they never had in other religions. But still nowadays the most common attack on Islamic morals and values is to question the status of women in Islam. The status of women in Islam is unique and does not have any similarity with previous systems or religions. Let us discuss the status of women in Islam with regard to the history of Safa and Marwa. Safa and Marwa are two hills close to Kaaba in Makkah. Muslims who perform the Hajj must run between Safa and Marwa. This is in memory of a mother’s sacrifice for her son. The great woman was Hajira (May Allah be pleased with her). She was the wife of Prophet Ibrahim (A.S). Haajar/ Hajira was the daughter of king of Egypt and Her son was Prophet Ismael (A.S). Hajira’s sacrifice took place when she was left alone with her baby in the valley of Makkah all for the sake of Allah. Ibn Abbaas (R.A) narrated the story of Haajar/Hajira, the wife of Ibraheem and the mother of his son Ismaeel. He said: Ibraheem brought Hajira and her son Ismaeel while she was suckling him, to a place near the Kabah under a tree on the spot of Zamzam, at the highest place in the mosque. During those days there was nobody in Makkah, nor was there any water. So he made them sit over there and placed near them a leather bag containing some dates, and a small water-skin containing some water, and set out homeward. Hajira followed him saying: “O Ibraheem! Where are you going leaving us in this valley where there is no person whose company we may enjoy, nor is there anything?” She repeated that to him many times, but he did not look back at her. Then she asked him: “Has Allah ordered you to do this?” He said, “Yes.” She said, “Then He will not neglect us” and returned while Ibrahim went on his way. When he reached al-Thaniyyah, where they could not see him, he faced the Ka’bah, and raising both hands, prayed to Allah in the following words: “O our Lord! I have made some of my offspring to dwell in an uncultivable valley by Your Sacred House (the Kaabah at Makkah) in order, O our Lord, that they may perform As‑Salaah (Iqaamat‑as‑Salaah). So fill some hearts among men with love towards them, and (O Allah) provide them with fruits so that they may give thanks”[ Ibraaheem 14:37] Ismaeel’s mother went on suckling Ismael and drinking from the water (she had). When the water in the water-skin had all been used up, she became thirsty and her child also became thirsty. She started looking at her child tossing in agony. She left him, for she could not endure looking at him, and found that the mountain of al-Safa was the nearest mountain to her on that land. She stood on it and started looking at the valley keenly so that she might see somebody, but she could not see anybody. Then she descended from al-Safa and when she reached the valley, she tucked up her robe and ran in the valley like a person in distress and trouble, till she crossed the valley and reached al-Marwa where she stood and started looking, expecting to see somebody, but she could not see anybody. She repeated that (running between al-Safa and al-Marwa) seven times. Ibn Abbaas said: the Prophet (P.B.U.H) said: “This is the source of the tradition of the walking between them (i.e. Safa and Marwa). When she reached Marwa (for the last time) she heard a voice and she asked herself to be quiet and listened attentively. She heard the voice again and said, “O (whoever you may be)! You have made me hear your voice; have you got something to help me?” And she saw an angel at the place of Zamzam, digging the earth with his heel (or his wing), till water flowed from that place. She started to make something like a basin around it, using her hand in this way, and started filling her water-skin with water with her hands, and the water started flowing out after she had scooped some of it.” Ibn Abbaas said: The Prophet (P.B.U.H) added: “May Allah bestow Mercy on Ismael’s mother! Had she left the Zamzam alone (flowing without trying to control it) (or had she not scooped from that water) (to fill her water-skin), Zamzam would have been a stream flowing on the surface of the earth.” The Prophet (P.B.U.H) further added, “Then she drank (water) and suckled her child. The angel said to her: ‘Don’t be afraid of being neglected, for this is the House of Allah which will be built by this boy and his father, and Allah never neglects His people’ This act of running between Safa and Marwa by a woman was so much loved by Allah that Allah has made running between Safa and Marwa compulsory for every man and Woman who performs Hajj. Allah mentioned in Quran: “Behold! Safa and Marwa are among the Symbols of Allah” [surah Baqara:158] Today we drink from Zamzam and it is ever flowing water. When you go for Hajj, remember the struggle of this great woman. What a great example of Status of women in Islam!!

Contemplating On Being A Second Wife? A SECOND WIFE, in fact even a third and a fourth wife, are in exactly the same category as a first wife. The norms of western society, which have been acquired by Muslims, have created in Muslim society similar attitudes of repugnance which westerners display towards a plurality of marriages. In the Qur’aan Majeed and in the Sunnah there is overwhelming evidence for the perfect permissibility of marrying more than one wife. The life of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), of the Sahaabah and the great personalities of Islam in all ages are more than adequate evidence for the sanctity of the institution of polygamy in the same way as is the institution of monogamy. In fact, it is an attitude of kufr to hold in contempt polygamy. This attitude is tantamount to criticizing Allah Ta’ala who has made polygamy lawful, and it is an indirect assault on the practice of Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam), the Ambiya and the Sahaabah. IMMORALITY Western society tolerates fornication and illicit associations by husbands and wives. But, a second marriage is unthinkable. Muslims who ape the west suffer from the very same irrational mental disease. Since the kufr draws filth and falsehood like a magnet draws steel, a compromise with the adultery committed by a husband and even a continued illicit relationship are acceptable to a wife. But never is a second wife tolerable to the first wife. Muslims too have inherited similar emotional stances, attitudes and ideas of the western kuffaar. Even Muslim wives and Muslims in general frown o¬n a second marriage while wives and many others outrightly reject it. As a last resort to prevent the second marriage, the husband’s continued illicit relationship will be condoned with a blind eye, but not his Nikah which is viewed worse than adultery— Nauthubillaah! OPPOSITION In view of the strong opposition of society and the wife in particular to a man marrying a second wife, most men who become entangled in illicit relationships, but are overwhelmed by remorse, endeavour to rectify the wrong in a clandestine way. Since they lack the courage to do what is proper, they enter into secret marriages. Clandestine marriages bring in their wake grave and heartbreaking consequences. Both the man and woman who contemplate such a marriage should reflect seriously and not enter into a union which resembles an illicit relationship. In other words, they should not enact a secret Nikah and conceal the holy bond from the community and the first wife. The opposition, taunts and criticism of society should be ignored. The Pleasure of Allah Ta’ala is of paramount importance, not the emotional eruptions and pleasure of the people. Deficiency of Imaan constrains men who contemplate second marriages to either opt for continuation of the illicit affair for fear of antagonising the first wife and society, or at best, they arrange a secret Nikah. THE SECRET NIKAH Nikah, it should be understood, is a public institution. The teaching and spirit of Islam emphasise the public announcement of a Nikah. That is why the presence of witnesses is an integral constituent of the marriage ceremony which is not valid without witnesses. The public announcement of Nikah is of such great significance that according to the Maaliki Math-hab, it should be proclaimed and advertised with even the beating of the duff (drum). The Hadith states that the distinguishing feature between Nikah and zina is public announcement. While Nikah is publicly proclaimed and acclaimed, zina is concealed. Now if Nikah too is treated with secrecy, what difference is there between marriage and adultery? It therefore does not behove Muslims to conceal what is above board, pure and halaal. Concealing an illicit association is understandable, but not a halaal union enacted to obliterate the illicit affair. A marriage performed in secret and concealed from public knowledge is in conflict with the teaching and spirit of Islam. NOT FOR LONG A secret marriage cannot be concealed for too long. Sooner or later the matter comes to the notice of people. Those who are unaware will justifiably believe that an adulterous affair is existing. When ultimately the Nikah becomes known, a storm erupts. If the Nikah was performed in accordance with the demands of the Shariah, the resultant effect would have been infinitely milder than the consequences of a secret marriage becoming public. MISTRESS? The woman too should understand that she should not submit to the demanding emotions of the married man who is desirous of concealing the contemplated Nikah. It is most dishonourable for a woman to allow herself to be entrapped in such a marriage in which her position will be not much better than that of a mistress. While married, life will continue as if an illicit affair exists between herself and her husband. What pleasure and happiness can an honourable Muslim woman derive from a marriage which she has to conceal, and always duck and dive to save her ‘image’ and the ‘reputation’ of her husband? Over the years numerous such clandestine cases have passed through our office. The results are always miserable and grievous. A woman who accedes to a man’s desire for a clandestine nikah should understand that she will not be treated as a decent wife by her husband. She will live in suspense. She will not be favoured with the rights which a Nikah grants a wife. She will be denied the honour of running a home. The husband will violate most of her rights. She will live in frustration and despondency. Although a wife, wedded to her husband in Allah’s Name, she has to live in darkness and under a cloud of suspicion. NEGLECT After a lapse of time, the man tires of his secret wife. The glamour must necessarily wear thin. Then the serious problems begin. The woman comes to her senses when it is a bit too late. Never submit to a secret marriage proposal. If a man lacks the courage to publicly proclaim his second marriage, it is a sure sign that he will violate the rights of his second wife. He lacks in the quality of Islamic manhood. He marries her to soothe his conscience. His sole motive is sexual gratification. But a happy marriage is not based solely on this factor. If he refuses to have the Nikah in the Musjid and put you on the pedestal of Islamic wifehood, issue a firm refusal for your own sake. Do not open up the avenue of a miserable life for yourself by acting the part of a mistress under a veneer of marriage.