ummtaalib

Control your self during 4 occasions to be Protected from Shaytaan Al Hasan [RA] stated: “If there are four things present in a person, Allah would preserve him from the Shaytaan and prevent him from entering the Fire: Whoever has control over himself during times of: Raghbah - Longing Rahbah - Fear Shahwah - Desire/Lust Ghadab - Anger.” Ibn Rajab [RA] stated: “These four that al Hasan mentioned are the basis of all evil.” To have Raghbah for something is to want it and believe that it is beneficial for you. So whoever has a need for something, this need may drive him to attain it through any means possible, a lot of which could be impermissible, and the object that is longed for itself could be prohibited. Rahbah is to fear something. If a person fears something he would try to repel it by any means necessary, a lot of which may be impermissible. Shahwah is to desire something that you take pleasure from. A person may desire a lot of things that are prohibited such as fornication, theft, alcohol, disbelief, magic, hypocrisy and innovations. Ghadab - Anger: It is the boiling of the hearts blood to repel a harm fearing that it would take place, or to take revenge from someone who has previously caused harm. A lot of impermissible things take place as a consequence of anger, such as fighting, hitting as well as other types of oppression and transgression. A lot of impermissible forms of speech also take place such as defamation, insults, and evil words. This may even reach the level of disbelief. http://tazkiyatips.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/control-four-to-be-protected-from.html

It is narrated then when you hear the Azaan, then repeat the words. After this, recite Durud and ask waseela for Rasulullaah (S.A.W) which is a great stage in Jannah and is special for Rasulullaah (S.A.W) and he will make intercession from there. So, whoever asked waseela for Rasulullaah (S.A.W), the intercession of Rasulullaah (S.A.W) for him is a certainty. The Du'aa after Azaan has been narrated through various chains (with some additional words in some). However, generally, the following Du'aa is recited, اللهم رب هذه الدعوة التامة والصلوة القائمة آت محمد الوسيله والفضيلة وابعثه مقاما محمود الذي وعدته إنك لا تخلف الميعاد O Allaah, Rabb of this complete call and of this established Salaat, bless Muhammad with waseela and virtue and take Muhammad (S.A.W) to the place of Maqaam e Mahmud - which You have promised. Indeed You do not go against Your promise. For this reason, intercession will become compulsory. It is narrated then when the mu'ezzin says ( حى على الصلاة ), then the listener should say ( لا حول ولا قوة إلا بالله ). And when he says (حى على الفلاح ), the listener should say ( اللهم اجعلنا من اهل الفلاح). The meaning of waseela is also said to be closeness and proximity. From here it is learnt that it is permissible to make Rasulullaah (S.A.W) a waseela to go to Allaah I, i.e. it is love for Allaah I. There is difference of opinion with regards to the meaning of Maqaam e Mahmud. One view is that Rasulullaah (S.A.W) has to give witness upon his Ummah. One view is that he will be granted the flag of hamd on the Day of Qiyaamah. Another view is that Allaah I will place Rasulullaah (S.A.W) on the Divine Throne. It is also said that he will be made to sit on the Kursi. One view states that it is intercession. The author þ says that there is no great difference between these different views because all of them will happen at the same time. Alislam.co.za

More info here: http://www.islamicteachings.org/forum/topic/20437-itikaf-q-a/

VIRTUES OF PERFORMING I'TIKAF Q: What are the virtues of performing I'tikaf ? A: Hadhrat Ali Ibn Husain RA narrates from his father that Rasullullah SAW said: "He who observes the ten days I'tikaf during Ramadhan will obtain the thawaab of two Hajj and two Umrah." (Bayhaqi) Hadhrat Abdullah bin Abbas RA reported that Rasullullah SAW said: "Whosoever for Allah's sake did even one days i'tikaf, Allah would keep him away from Jahannam by trenches." (Tabarani) Hadhrat Ibn Abbas RA reported that Rasullullah SAW said, (about him who engages in i'tikaf), "that he is safe from sin and he also gets that reward which everyone (outside i'tikaf) gets for pious deeds." (Ibn Majah) One of the virtues of I'tikaf , is the seeking and engaging in worship seeking Laylatul Qadr. Hazrat Abu Saeed Khudri(RA) reports that Rasullullah SAW once performed I'tikaf for the first ten days of Ramadhan. Thereafter he made I'tikaf in a Turkish tent (inside the masjid) for the middle ten days. Thereafter he raised his head out of the tent and said, "Verily in search of Laylatul Qadr did I perform I'tikaf for the first ten days, then for the middle ten days……."(Mishkaat) WHAT SHOULD ONE DO DURING I'TIKAF ? Q: What should one do during I'tikaf? A: 1) One should engage oneself in tilawat of Quran, durud and salawat upon Nabi SAW, istighfar and nafil salat. 2) He should abstain from all types of sin and guard his ears, eyes, heart, thus deriving maximum benefit from the I'tikaf. 3) The mu'takif should remember that he is the guest of Almighty Allah, therefore he should be extremely careful of his behaviour in the House of Almighty Allah. 4) The main objective of I'tikaf is to seek Laylatul Qadr, therefore the mu'takifin (brothers in I'tikaf) should exert themselves during the odd nights of Ramadhan. INTENTION FOR SUNNAH I'TIKAF Q: In a sunnah I'tikaf during the last ten days of Ramadhan, how does one make an intention? A: Niyyat (intention) could be done in the heart or verbally expressed, eg. – O Allah I am making I'tikaf for the last ten days of Ramadhan. BATH TO COOL OFF DURING I'TIKAF Q: Can one leave the Masjid to take a bath just to cool off during I'tikaf? A: It is not permissible to do so and the I'tikaf will be invalidated. VENUE FOR FEMALE I'TIKAF Q: Where should a female make her I'tikaf? A: According to the Shafi'es, Malikis, Hanbalis, I'tikaf can only be performed in the Masjid. Hence, men will sit in the male section whilst females will perform their I'tikaf in the female section of the masjid. It is not permissible to perform I'tikaf at home according to the above mentioned scholars. However, the Hanafi scholars state that it is permissible for females to perform their I'tikaf at home in a place which is reserved for salat. Cognizance must be taken of the fact that women must not be in menses or post-natal (nifas), similarly she must take permission from her husband to sit in I'tikaf. DIFFERENCE BETWEEN MALE & FEMALE I'TIKAF Q: Is there any difference between a male and females I'tikaf? A: The same rules which apply to a man observing I'tikaf in the masjid, apply to a woman observing I'tikaf in a place of seclusion at home (according to the Hanafis). The majority of the scholars state that a woman can only perform I'tikaf in a masjid. LADY DOES HER DOMESTIC DUTIES IN I'TIKAF Q: Can a woman do her domestic duties whilst in I'tikaf? A: She can perform her domestic duties in her room, eg. cooking, ironing etc. This is only according to the Hanafi scholars. LEAVING MASJID WHILST IN I'TIKAF Q: Whilst performing I'tikaf, forgetfully I left the masjid for a few minutes, is my I'tikaf valid? A: According to the Hanafis the I'tikaf is broken whilst the majority of the scholars, namely, Shafi'es, Malikis, Hanbalis, state that the I'tikaf is valid. QADHA OF I'TIKAF Q: If ones I'tikaf broke then how does one make qadha? A: In the case of the Sunnah I'tikaf, a person has to make one days qadha from maghrib to maghrib whilst fasting during the day. Only the Hanafi scholars state that qadha is compulsory. This qadha can be kept during Ramadhan or after Ramadhan. START & END SUNNAH I'TIKAF Q: What time does the I'tikaf start and end during Ramadhan? A: The mu'takif (one who observes I'tikaf) should enter the masjid before sunset of the 20th day of Ramadhan. He must remain in the masjid until the sighting of the Eid moon is confirmed. REASONS FOR LEAVING MASJID DURING I'TIKAF Q: What are valid reasons for leaving the masjid during I'tikaf? A: 1. To answer the call of nature. 2. To pass wind. 3. To make wudhu. 4. To take an obligatory bath. 5. To proclaim the azan even if one is not the muazzin. UNDESIRABLE THINGS DURING I'TIKAF Q: Which things are undesirable during I'tikaf? A: 1. To maintain total silence 2. To indulge in idle talk 3. To sleep excessively merely to pass time. 4. To unnecessarily pass wind inside the Masjid. 5. To engage in any occupation, eg. Teaching for a salary. 6. To read books which are not of a deeni nature. 7. To waste time with cell-phones etc. PERMISSIBLE THINGS IN I'TIKAF Q: Things that are permissible during I'tikaf? A: 1. Eating, drinking. 2. Sleeping 3. necessary conversation 4. to change clothes, to apply oil and perfume. 5. To walk inside the masjid 6. To cut hair and nails – these should not fall in the masjid. 7. To study deeni books. JUMMAH BATH IN I'TIKAF Q: Is it permissible to go to the bathroom for a jummah bath during I'tikaf? A: During I'tikaf it is not permissible for one to go for a sunnat bath, like the Friday ghusal. If one does so, then the I'tikaf is broken. WET DREAM IN I'TIKAF Q: If one has a wet dream, does it invalidate the I'tikaf? A: Emission of semen in a wet dream does not invalidate the I'tikaf. However, as soon as he realizes that he is in the state of impurity, he should leave the masjid immediately and perform the fardh ghusal. HUSBAND'S PERMISSION FOR I'TIKAF Q: I want to sit for I'tikaf during the last ten days of Ramadhan, do I need my husband's permission, and can he and the children visit me? A: It is compulsory for you to obtain the permission of your husband to sit in I'tikaf. Your husband and children can visit you, however your husband cannot fondle and touch you with lust etc. CHILDREN IN I'TIKAF Q: Is it permissible for children to sit for I'tikaf? A: The venue for I'tikaf is a Masjid. Bulugh (puberty) is not a condition for the validity of I'tikaf. However, the children must understand the meaning of I'tikaf and must maintain the sanctity of the Masjid. Nowadays, some children sit for I'tikaf and one finds a carnival atmosphere prevailing in the masjid which is not permissible. WUDHU AT ALL TIMES IN I'TIKAF Q: Is it compulsory for the mu'takif (person performing I'tikaf) to remain in wudhu at all times? A: It is meritorious to remain in wudhu as far as possible. If his wudhu breaks, it will be permissible for him to leave the masjid for the purpose of wudhu, even if it is not yet time for salat. Similarly it will be permissible for him to leave the masjid to make wudhu at night to enable him to sleep with wudhu. FAST BREAKS WHILST IN I'TIKAF Q: If someone's fast breaks is the I'tikaf valid? A: It is a pre-requisite for the validity of the I'tikaf that a person must fast. Hence, if the fast breaks, the I'tikaf is also broken according to the Hanafis. ERECTING CUBICLES FOR I'TIKAF Q: Kindly explain whether erecting cubicles for I'tikaf is necessary? A: The purpose of I'tikaf is seclusion in order to maximize ones time in the worship of Almighty Allah. Therefore, the cubicle is conducive to the spirit of I'tikaf. Nabi SAW had a cubicle made of straw mats (Mirqaat, vol 4,page 329). However, if the cubicles are causing inconvenience to the musallees, then a portion of the majsid should be cordoned of for those performing I'tikaf without erecting the cubicles. I'TIKAF IN A MUSALLAH Q: We wish to make I'tikaf in a musallah (jamat khana), is it valid to do so? A: The venue for I'tikaf is valid in a Masjid only. Almighty Allah states: "Do not touch your wives whilst you are in I'tikaf in the Masajid." (surah 2 verse 187) Hence, for men to make I'tikaf in a musallah is not valid. There is consensus on this issue according to all four schools. CONDITIONS FOR I'TIKAF Q: What are the conditions for I'tikaf? A: It must be a masjid. The person must be a sane Muslim and could be a minor or mature adult. A female has to be free from menses and post-natal. Similarly she must take permission from her husband to sit in I'tikaf. MOBILE PHONE DURING I'TIKAF Q: Is it permissible to use the mobile phone during I'tikaf? A: It is permissible to do so when there is a need. However, if the person left the boundary of the masjid to make or receive a call then his I'tikaf is broken. Furthermore, it is not permissible to disturb other people in the masjid with the mobile. Cognizance must be taken of the fact that musical ring-tones are haram. BEST MASJID TO MAKE I'TIKAF Q: Where is the best place to sit for I'tikaf? A: The best place for I'tikaf is the Haram Shareef in Makka Mukarrama, then Masjid Nabawi in Madina Munawwara, then masjid Al-Aqsa in Palestine, thereafter all the masajid are equal. MUEZZIN RENDERS AZAN FROM MINARET WHILE IN I'TIKAF Q: Is it permissible for the muezzin, who is in I'tikaf to go to the minaret to render the azan? A: It is permissible for the muezzin to do so. MU'TAKIF PROTRUDES HEAD OUT OF WINDOW Q: Can a person in I'tikaf put his head out of the window of the masjid? A: It is permissible for the mu'takif to protrude his head out of the window, whilst standing in the masjid. JOIN BROTHERS IN I'TIKAF FOR MEALS Q: Can I join the brothers in I'tikaf for iftar and meals? A: A person who is not in I'tikaf should not join the brother/s in I'tikaf for iftar or meals unless he also makes intention for I'tikaf. This intention will be a nafil and its duration can be for a minute. He should engage in some zikr and then join the brothers for iftar or meals. VISIT SICK OR PARTICIPATE IN JANAZA WHEN IN I'TIKAF Q: If one is sitting for I'tikaf, is one allowed to participate in a janaza salat or visit the sick? A: If one is sitting for nafil I'tikaf, then one may leave the masjid for janaza salat, visit the sick or take a bath to cool off etc. However, if one is sitting for the sunnah I'tikaf, during the last ten days of Ramadhan then according to the Hanafis it is not permissible to leave the masjid for a janaza salat or visit the ill etc. If one does so then the I'tikaf will be broken and qadha will be compulsory. However, according to the Shafi'es, it is permissible to read the salatul janaza as the janaza salat is read in the masjid. Q: When a person is about to start his I'tikaf can he make a condition that if somebody passes away, he will go for the janaza salat or visit the sick. Are these conditions permissible? A: According to all the jurists it is permissible in nafil (voluntary) or wajib I'tikaf (when one takes a vow). However, it is not permissible in the sunnah I'tikaf of Ramadhan, according to the Hanafis. Imam Shafi'e RA allows these type of conditions. MOVE TO ANOTHER MASJID WHILST IN I'TIKAF Q: Is it permissible to move from one masjid to another whilst in I'tikaf? A: It will nullify the I'tikaf if one does so. However, if the masjid is flooded or there is a natural disaster etc. then to leave the masjid for another masjid will be permissible provided that one goes straight to the other masjid. Similarly, if one's life is seriously threatened, eg. criminals, then for one to transfer to another masjid will be acceptable. For reference: Fathul Qadir by Ibn Hummam RA, vol 3, page 111. PERFORM I'TIKAF BUT NO STRENGTH TO FAST Q: I intend observing I'tfikaf during the last ten days of Ramadhan but do not have the strength to fast, kindly advise? A: Fasting is a condition for the I'tikaf during the last ten days of Ramadhan. Thus, I'tikaf without fasting will be considered a nafil I'tikaf. If you recover from your weakness then qadha of the fast is compulsory and if you are suffering from a chronic ailment then fidya will be compulsory upon you. NO ONE MADE THE SUNNAH I'TIKAF IN TOWN Q: In our town no one made the sunnah I'tikaf, what is the verdict? A: According to the Hanafi jurists, the I'tikaf during the last ten days of Ramadhan is sunnat muakkada alal kifaya. This refers to an insisted sunnah which one person can fulfil. However, if no one performs it then everyone is a sinner and repentance is compulsory. Therefore, every town must make arrangements for someone to perform I'tikaf. According to the Malikis, Shafi'es, Hanbalis the I'tikaf is sunnah. Thus, if someone performs the I'tikaf then he/she will be rewarded, but if no one performs it, there is no sin upon them. PAY SOMEONE TO PERFORM THE I'TIKAF Q: Is it permissible to pay someone to perform the I'tikaf? A: I'tikaf should be performed for the love of Almighty Allah and not for material gain. It is not permissible to pay somebody to sit for I'tikaf. Ramadhan Q & A -By Mufti Abdool Kader Hoosen Courtesy of al-Islaah Publications

Question: I am pregnant and I wanted some guidance on purification and prayer during labor. When should I stop praying whilst going to labor? How do I perform ablution? Answer: assalamu `alaykum I pray you are well. A morally responsible female is obligated to pray as long as she is not in a state of menstruation (hayd) or post-natal bleeding (nifas). Post-natal blood is the blood that exits from the uterus through the vagina after the exiting of most of the child. [birgivi, Dhukr al-Mutahhilin] As such, the prayer would only be lifted from a woman in labour after most of the child exits. Prior to that the prayer will remain obligatory upon her. In the situation where a woman is in labor and needs to pray the only thing demanded of her is that she pray to the best of her ability. As such, if she is unable to perform the ritual ablution then she can do the dry-ablution (tayammum) in its place, which can be performed with anything from the earth (such as a rock). Similarly, if she is unable to pray standing, she prays sitting with bowing and prostration, and if unable to do that then with head movements. [ibn `Abidin, Radd al-Muhtar] Further, any involuntary sounds that come out are excused as well and do not invalidate the prayer. Our teacher, Shaykh Faraz Rabbani, quoted his teacher, Shaykh Hassan al-Hindi, as saying that what more beautiful a state to have a child in than in a state of prayer. Child birth is without a doubt difficult, but the prayer was made the “coolness” of the Prophet’s (Allah bless him and grant him peace) eyes, the “key to paradise”, and the “remover of vice”. It is the intimate link between the slave and his Lord, the place wherein the secrets of one’s slavehood are outpoured, small in number but abundant in favor. We should keep the above in mind and strive our best to fulfill the obligations placed upon us for they have only been commanded to benefit us in this world and the next. Wassalam Salman Checked & Approved by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani

Question in itikaaf are women aloud to talk to someone not in itikaaf and are they allowed to play with babies Answer Bismillah Al-jawab billahi at-taufeeq (the answer with Allah’s guidance) Yes, speaking words of advice and guiding others in regard to matters affecting the home is permissible. Similarly, playing with children occasionally for short periods are permissible. It is preferable if they concentrate during the I’tikaf on Dhikr, Tasbihat, Tilawat al Quran and ‘Ibadaat. They should not spend too much time on other matters. Below, are some ettiquettes and information about I’tikaf of women. This is an extract from (Kitabus Sawm). I’tikaf of Women 1. The virtues of I’tikaf is not confined to men; women also can take advantage of it. However, women should not perform I’tikaf in the masjid. Their I’tikaf is only possible in the house. The procedure is as follows: Women should sit for I’tikaf in that place in the house which has been set aside for Salah and Ibadah. If no such place has been previously set aside, then a place must be so set aside prior to the commencement of I’tikaf, and I’tikaf must accordingly be performed therein. (Shami) 2. If no specific place has been built or set aside in the house for Salah, and it is not possible for some reason to so build or set aside a place therein, then in such event a woman may at her discretion demarcate any place within the house and perform I’tikaf there. (Alamghiri) 3. It is necessary for a married woman to obtain the consent of her husband for the purpose of performing I’tikaf. It is not permissible for a woman to perform I’tikaf without the permission of her husband. (Shami) However, husbands should not without reason deprive their wives of performing I’tikaf by refusing consent. On the contrary, they should grant consent. 4. If a woman has commenced I’tikaf with the permission of her husband and thereafter he endeavours to prohibit or prevent her from completing same, then he cannot do so. If he succeeds in preventing her, then the woman is not obliged to complete I’tikaf. (Alamghiri) 5. It is necessary for a woman to be free from menstruation and Nifas in order to perform I’tikaf ‑ that is, she cannot perform I’tikaf in a stage of menstruation and Nifas. 6. Consequently, a woman should, prior to the commencement of Masnun I’tikaf, determine whether the date of her menstruation will coincide with the period of I’tikaf. If the menstruation is expected to occur towards the end of the last ten days of Ramadhan, then she must not perform Masnun I’tikaf. However, she may perform Nafl I’tikaf for the period until the arrival of her menstruation. 7. If a woman has commenced I’tikaf, and thereafter menstruation com­mences during the duration of I’tikaf, then it is Wajib upon her to imme­diately abandon I’tikaf, as soon as her menstruation commences. In such a situation it is Wajib upon her to make Qadha I’tikaf of only the day in which she abandoned the Itikâf (as a result of the intervention of menstruation). The procedure of such Qadha is as follows: After the woman becomes pure of such menstruation, she keeps fast on any day and performs I’tikaf. If the days remain in Ramadhan, then she may make Qadha in Ramadhan in which case the fast of Ramadhan will be sufficient. However, if Ramadhan has terminated at the time of her becom­ing pure from such menstruation, then she must thereafter specifically keep fast Qadha I’tikaf for one day. (Commentary to Behesti Zewar) 8. The place within the home demarcated by a woman for the purpose of I’tikaf will for the duration thereof fall within the Hukm of the Masjid. It is not permissible for her to move from such place without a Sharî necessity. She cannot leave such place and enter any other portion or area of the home. If she does so, her I’tikaf will break. 9. The rules applicable to men relating to moving from the place of I’tikaf are also applicable to women. For those needs and necessities in relation to which it is permissible for men to leave the Masjid, it is similarly permissi­ble for women to leave the place of I’tikaf for such needs and necessities. (not Janazah). For those works in relation to which it is permissible for men to leave the Masjid, it is similarly permissible for women to leave the place of I’tikaf for such works. And Only Allah Ta’ala Knows Best. Moulana Qamruz Zaman London, UK http://www.muftisays.com/qa/question/656/itikaaf-for-women.html

Question When a lady is menstruating, she is not able to perform her salaat, but it is permissible to perform ablution (wudhu). Why is this so? What deeds can a lady perform while in her menses and which deeds can she not perform? Answer Bismillah Al-jawab billahi at-taufeeq (the answer with Allah’s guidance) 1) In the period of Haidh (menstruation), it is Mustahab (perferable) for a woman to make Wudu at the time of prayer, to sit in a clean place and take the name of Allah Ta’ala so that she does not forget the habit of offering her prayer, and when she gets pure she is not reluctant to offer her prayer. (From ‘Heavenly Ornaments’ by Imam Asraf Ali al-Tahanawi) 2) Prohibitions during Haidh (Menstruation) and Nifas (Postnatal Bleeding) During the time a woman is menstruating (Haidh) or experiencing postnatal bleeding (Nifas), the following eight activities are prohibited: 1. Salah (ritual prayer). It is also not permissible for her to perform a prostration of gratitude (Sajda Shukr) or prostration of recitation (Sajda Tilawa). 2. Fasting obligatory or otherwise. 3. Recitation of even a single verse of the Holy Quran: Reading less than a verse without the intention of reciting the Quran is permissible, such as reciting Al-Hamudu li Llah All praise is for Allāh, with the intention of gratitude or the recitation of BismiLlah In the name of Allāh, before eating (Al-Lubab 43). It is permissible to read a word from a verse (Ayat) or (according to another opinion) even half a verse, as long as it does not equal a short verse. It is permissible to recite a verse or more with the intention of supplication (Du’a). For instance, the entire Suratul Fatiha can be recited with the intention of Du’a. Likewise, any other verse or chapter from the Quran can be recited with the intention of Du’a as long as they contain words indicative of supplicationand there is no sin in this. If a woman is teaching Quran to students, then it will be permissible for her to spell out the words bit by bit and not recite the entire verse altogether. She can read one or two words at a time, breaking her breath in between. It is permissible to take the name of Allah, read Du’as, send salutations and blessings (salawat) on the Messenger of Allāh i.e, to recite prayers of forgiveness (Istighfar), or any other zhikr(remembrance). 4. Touching the Quran. However, it is permissible to touch the Quran with a covering, such as a cloth sleeve or bag, but not a covering that is permanently attached to the Quran. It is also not permissible to touch the Quran with a portion of ones garment, such as the sleeve or the edge of a dress while one is wearing them (Shar al-Hidaya of Imām Abd al-Hay Lucknawī 1:212). 5. Entering the Masjid. It is permissible for a menstruating woman to enter a Musalla(temporary place of prayer) or the place where Eid prayer is performed as long as it is not in a Masjid. The laws regarding the impermissibility of entering the Masjid are not applicable to the prayer room which is not a Sharī Masjid. 6. Circumambulation (Tawaf) of the Holy Ka’ba. 7. Sexual intercourse. 8. Sexual enjoyment from the navel to below the knees of a menstruating woman. Therefore, other than intimacy (without a covering) or looking at the above mentioned area, all other types of intimacy and sexual enjoyment are permissible. There is absolutely no problem in the husband and wife eating, drinking, and sleeping together during her menstruation. (The Laws of Menstruation, Postnatal Bleeding, & Dysfunctional Uterine Bleeding- Based on the Hanafi school of Islamic law, By Abdurrahman Ibn Yusuf) And Only Allah Ta’ala Knows Best. ————————————– Moulana Qamruz Zaman London, UK http://www.muftisays.com/qa/question/3054/monthly-courses.html

Answered by Shaykh Faraz Rabbani As I am due to becoming a mother, I have some questions regarding childbirth. Answer: Walaikum assalam, Just general nasiha: Do a lot of dhikr and Qur’an recital before, during and after your childbirth. Allah Most High tells us, “Verily, by the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.” And He said in ahadith qudsi, “I am with My servant when he makes remembrance of Me.” This makes the childbirth easier, and benefits the child. Don’t think of the pain as a hardship alone; be thankful that Allah is granting you the station of motherhood, of which it is reported that, “ Paradise is under the feet of mothers.” Q) if a woman’s waters break, does she become ritually impure (i.e. if the amniotic fluid trickles out and the birth is imminent but not due for a length of time can she still pray?) She is morally responsible to pray (i.e. it remains obligatory for her to do so) until she becomes in a state of nifas, which is after more than half the child has come out. If she cannot pray standing, she can do so sitting or lying down with head movements. If she cannot do wudu, or there is undue hardship in doing so, she can do tayammum on a stone. This is not hardship. Is there a better state to give birth in than prayer? Q) Is the amniotic fluid considered najis Yes. Q) Is a woman sinful if her khimaar slips during labour in the presence of non -Muslim female nurses/midwives. Also what is the minimum requirement of covering during this time? is there any consideration for comfort? i.e. sisters are known to tear off scarves due to discomfort /distress. It is necessary to seek out female Muslim midwives or doctors, if available. Otherwise, it becomes permitted to go to non-Muslim practitioners. It would be permitted to uncover one’s awrah to the extent necessary for the delivery, not more. It helps to have a religious family member or close friend with one, for comfort, and to ensure that no men enter, and that they do not uncover more of one’s awrah than necessary. Q) can she recite qur’an, du,a or durood during the labour, even if she is bleeding? Until she enters a state of post-natal bleeding (nifas, = after more than half the child has come out), she can recite the Qur’an. However, one should not do so in a state of uncoveredness. So during delivery, one should send blessings on the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace), and make much remembrance of Allah. Reciting la ilaha illaAllah a lot helps. An easy to repeat durood that they scholars recommend is: Allahumma Salli` Ala Sayyidina Muhammadin Wa Aalihi Wa Sallim. (O Allah, send blessings and peace on our Master Muhammad and his folk.) [and one intends the whole ummah of the Prophet (Allah bless him and give him peace), in general, with “Wa Aalihi”] http://spa.qibla.com/issue_view.asp?HD=1&ID=255&CATE=87

Q. Please advise on the ruling regarding a woman who is breastfeeding and fasting in Ramadhaan; if she does not fast does she have to make up the fasts at a later stage as well as feed the poor? (Query published as received) A. She will not be sinful for not fasting in Ramadaan due to breastfeeding. However, she will have to make up for the missed fasts at a later stage once she is able to. She does not have to give any monetary compensation. And Allah Knows Best Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed Confirmation: Mufti Ebrahim Desai Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

RAABI’AH BASRIYYAH Also known as RAABI’AH ADAWIYYAH, she was the fourth daughter of her parents. Great saints and scholars have benefitted from her spirituality and piety and many books have been written about her virtues and qualities. The following is my collection of inspiring stories about her. BIRTH The night Raabi’ah bint Isma’eel Adawiyyah Basriyya was born there was no oil in the house with which to anoint her naval. Her mother asked her father to borrow some oil from the neighbours. He left the house but had no intention of asking anyone for anything as he had made a vow not to ask anything of anyone. He therefore knocked softly on the neighbour’s door and returned home saying they did not open the door. He went to sleep filled with grief. That night he beheld the Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam in a dream saying to him, “Do not grieve. This daughter of yours is going to intercede on behalf of seventy thousand of my Ummatis”. He then instructed him thus, “Send a note to Ameer of Basra and tell him that each night he sends Durood upon me, and on Friday nights he sends four hundred Durood upon me. Last night he had forgotten to send Durood upon me. As a recompense for that he must hand over four hundred Dinars to the bearer of the note”. When he woke up he cried and then did as instructed. When the messenger handed over the note to the Ameer of Basra he read it and said, “Give ten thousand Dirhams to the poor as a gesture of thanks that Rasulullaah sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam has thought about me and give four hundred Dinars to this man”. AS A SLAVE After she came of age her parents passed away. There was a great famine in Basra and the sisters were separated. A cruel man abducted her, enslaved her and finally sold her. All day she worked for her master and spent the night in worship. One night her master woke up and heard her supplicating. When he went to investigate he saw a lamp miraculously hanging in midair above her lighting up the entire room. She was saying, “O Allah! You know that my heart’s desire is to serve You, and the light of my eyes is in Your service. You have subjected me to be in the service of people. I am late for Your service”. Raabi’ah’s master resolved to set her free. In the morning he said to her, “You are free to go. If you choose to stay here you are welcome. However, then I shall serve you”. Taking permission she departed to spend time in the worship of Allah ta’ala. ALLAH’S SPECIAL PROTECTION Once Raabi’ah, overcome with tiredness, fell asleep. A thief entered and took her shawl but he was unable to find his way out. When he replaced the shawl he saw the exit. Again he took the shawl and lost his way. He replaced the shawl and saw the way out. He repeated this process several times, then he heard someone saying, “Why bring calamity on yourself? She whose shawl this is, has handed herself over to another Being. Even Shaytaan cannot approach her. A thief is not able to steal her shawl. Leave it and depart”. HER CONCERN This great saintly woman was once seen walking the streets carrying a pail of water in one hand and a fire in the other. On being asked the reason she replied, “I wish I could burn the gardens of Jannat with this fire and put out the fire of Jahannam with this water. Then people will worship Allah subhaanahu wata’ala for His pleasure alone and not for entry into Jannat or for safety from the fire of Jahannam”. TRUE MIRACLE Once she went to visit Hasan Basri, the great saint, to consult him about a religious matter. On arriving at his house she was told he had gone to the riverside outside the city to worship Allah ta’ala undisturbed. At the riverside she observed the great saint immersed in prayers with his prayer mat spread on the surface of the water. To show him that this was no miracle, she spread her prayer mat in the air and started praying. Hasan Basri took the hint and stepped onto the shore. The great saintly lady did likewise and said, “Offering prayers while floating on the surface of the water or praying while suspended in the air, thus imitating a fly or a straw is no miracle. What then is a true miracle? It is to obliterate completely the yearnings of the heart for the sake of the approval of your Creator”. AIDED BY ALLAH When she went for Hajj she took along an emaciated donkey on which she loaded her few belongings. Along the journey it died and the people accompanying her offered to carry her belongings, but she refused saying, “Proceed! I did not come relying on you”. The caravan continued, leaving her behind. With her perfect trust in Allah ta’ala she supplicated for His aid. Even before completing her du’a, the donkey came to life and she continued her journey and reached Makkah Mukarramah. DEPTH OF HER KNOWLEDGE Hasan Basri ra the great saint would not deliver his discourses even if large numbers had attended unless Raabi’ah Basriyya was present. On being questioned he said, “The drink which fills the water trough of elephants cannot be poured for ants.” LEVEL OF TAQWAA Hasan Basri, upon hearing of Raabi’ah’s final illness, decided to visit her and from behind the veil asked about her health and if she desired anything. She replied that she desired Maghfirat (forgiveness). He asked if she had any worldly desires and she replied that she desired dry dates as she had not eaten any for the past 30 years. He enquired about the reason for going without them for so long and she replied that once while in salaat her concentration was disturbed by a desire to eat them and so she punished her nafs and denied it the fulfilling of the desire to eat dry dates. Hasan Basri went out wondering how he could get hold of them as it was not the season for them. Just then a bird flew by and dropped a fresh dry date in his lap. He immediately took it in and offered it to the saintly lady. She asked where he got it as it was not the season for dry dates. When he related the incident of the bird she refused to eat it even though she had such a desire for them since she did not know whose orchard the bird had got it from. Thereafter she asked everyone to leave the room. No sooner did Hasan Basri go out when he and the others heard a voice saying, “Yaa ayyutuhan nafsul mutma’innah, irji’ee ilaa rabbiki raadhiyatam mardhiyyah. Fadkhuli fee ‘ibaadee, wad khuli fee jannati” O contended soul! Return happily to your Lord while He is pleased with you. Enter among My bondsmen and enter My Jannah. (Suratul Fajr) They went in to find she had left this temporary world for the permanent abode of the Hereafter. IN HER GRAVE When this wonderful lady passed away someone saw her in a dream and asked what had transpired when the Angels Munkar and Nakir had arrived to question her. She revealed the following amazing conversation which had taken place... Angels: Who is your Lord, what is your Religion? Raabi’ah: I shall Insha Allah answer your question later. First, you answer my questions please. Where have you come from? Angels: From the Heavens. Raabi’ah: What is the distance between Heaven and earth? Angels: A journey of 500 years. Raabi’ah: Have you not forgotten Allah ta’ala having travelled such a vast distance? Angels: No, we have not forgotten Allah ta’ala. Raabi’ah: When after having sojourned such a long distance you claim not to have forgotten Allah ta’ala, why...are you seriously contemplating that Raabi’ah would forget her Allah after being lowered just 6 feet below the earth...especially when I had not forgotten Him even for a second whilst on earth? And another point, why are you asking me, ‘Who is your Lord?’ Why do you not go and ask my beloved Lord, ‘Who is Raabi’ah?’ He will reply, ‘She is one of Our beloved servants!’ This reply left the Angels completely amazed and speechless! (from “Ashraf’s Orchards) Even if we cannot be of them, we do so love them! O Allah! Include us amongst them!

An insightful and personal account of why a Western teenage girl would reject the 'wonders' of fashion, and want to cover herself in the hijab (veil). I probably do not fit into the preconceived notion of a "rebel". I have no visible tattoos and minimal piercing. I do not possess a leather jacket. In fact, when most people look at me, their first thought usually is something along the lines of "oppressed female". The brave individuals who have mustered the courage to ask me about the way I dress usually have questions like: "Do your parents make you wear that?" or "Don't you find that really unfair?" A while back, a couple of girls in Montreal were kicked out of school for dressing like I do. It seems strange that a little piece of cloth would make for such a controversy. Perhaps the fear is that I am harboring an Uzi machine gun underneath it! Of course, the issue at hand is more than a mere piece of cloth. I am a Muslim woman who, like millions of other Muslim women across the globe, chooses to wear a hijab. And the concept of the hijab, contrary to popular opinion, is actually one of the most fundamental aspects of female empowerment. When I cover myself, I make it virtually impossible for people to judge me according to the way I look. I cannot be categorized because of my attractiveness or lack thereof. Compare this to life in today's society: We are constantly sizing one another up on the basis of our clothing, jewelry, hair and makeup. What kind of depth can there be in a world like this? Yes, I have a body, a physical manifestation upon this Earth. But it is the vessel of an intelligent mind and a strong spirit. It is not for the beholder to leer at or to use in advertisements to sell everything from beer to cars. Because of the superficiality of the world in which we live, external appearances are so stressed that the value of the individual counts for almost nothing. It is a myth that women in today's society are liberated. What kind of freedom can there be when a woman cannot walk down the street without every aspect of her physical self being "checked out"? When I wear the hijab I feel safe from all of this. I can rest assured that no one is looking at me and making assumptions about my character from the length of my skirt. There is a barrier between me and those who would exploit me. I am first and foremost a human being, one of the saddest truths of our time is the question of the beauty myth and female self-image. Reading popular teenage magazines, you can instantly find out what kind of body image is "in" or "out" . And if you have the "wrong" body type, well, then, you're just going to change it, aren't you? After all, there is no way you can be overweight and still be beautiful. Look at any advertisement. Is a woman being used to sell the product? How old is she? How attractive is she? What is she wearing? More often than not, that woman will be no older than her early 20s, taller, slimmer, and more attractive than average, and dressed in skimpy clothing. Why do we allow ourselves to be manipulated like this? Whether the 90s woman wishes to believe it or not, she is being forced into a mould. She is being coerced into selling herself, into compromising herself. This is why we have 13-year-old girls sticking their fingers down their throats to vomit and overweight adolescents hanging themselves. When people ask me if I feel oppressed, I can honestly say no. I made this decision of my own free will. I like the fact that I am taking control of the way other people perceive me. I enjoy the fact that I don't give anyone anything to look at and that I have released myself from the bondage of the swinging pendulum of the fashion industry and other institutions that exploit females. My body is my own business. Nobody can tell me how I should look or whether or not I am beautiful. I know that there is more to me than that. I am also able to say no comfortably when people ask me if I feel as if my sexuality is being repressed. I have taken control of my sexuality. I am thankful I will never have to suffer the fate of trying to lose / gain weight or trying to find the exact lipstick shade that will go with my skin colour. I have made choices about what my priorities are and these are not among them. So next time you see me, don't look at me sympathetically. I am not under duress or a male-worshiping female captive from those barbarous Arab deserts. I've been liberated! (s) Toronto Star Young People's Press, the author a 17 year old high school student

As Muslims, it is our responsibility to remind and invite people toward the beautiful Deen of Islam. Somewhere, somehow over the years, we have become distracted by the Dunya (world), thus resulting in many of us becoming negligent in fulfilling our obligation of giving Da’wah. Occasionally, we feel that we are unable to give Da’wah due to our limited resources. However, this is not justifiable, as ‘Passive Da’wah’ (meaning Da’wah given unconsciously on a day to day basis) may be provided in numerous ways, regardless of a person’s availability of resources or formal education. Da’wah can be executed by anyone and at anytime. We are ambassadors of Islam. How we behave and interact with the creation of Allah Azza Wajal reflects upon us as Muslims. It is imperative that we aspire to acquire good character. Our good characters and manners will leave a positive impression on those whom we meet. Religious injunctions are not commanded by Allah Azza wajal to oppress us, but to protect us and to provide us with an identity. Hijab gives us identity and weaves us into a community that is “Proud to be Muslim.” Regardless of whether we are alone or in public, we need to remember that Allah see’s us. Let us be ambassadors by sitting with the truthful, keeping our desires at bay, making Shukr for everything that we have and by being patient. Passive Da’wah is relatively easy and does not need a large amount of expendable resources. It is fundamentally the giving of ourselves. So read on dear sister, with an open heart and an open mind. The following are simple ways in which you could serve and participate in the work of Da’wah, Insha’Allah, Allah Azza Wajal will assist us with our endeavors through trying to assist others. Ameen. 1. Your neighbors- Exchanging gifts was a great Sunnah of Rasulullah Sallallāhu Alayhi Wasallam and is encouraged in Islam. Perhaps bake a cake and send it over to the neighbors. A simple gesture such as calling them to enquire about their health can really change their perception of Islam and Muslims. 2. Phone or write to a friend- While you chat, you can help renew a sisters Iman (faith),advise her regarding something she’s concerned about, and remind her to have Sabr (patience), which all come under ‘enjoining the good.’ Allah says in the Qur’an, “And remind, for indeed the reminder benefits the Believers.” 3. Media- Participate in spreading the Da’wah by writing for publications, websites etc. There has be something you feel passionately about. Put pen to paper and let your ideas flow! Base what you write upon the Qur’an and Sunnah and have it checked by a reliable scholar. It will be a chance for you to do a bit of research, increase your knowledge, and it may be a valuable resource for others. 4. Support an Islamic Institute- There are plenty of Islamic organizations that help to spread the word of Islam. By sending them a donation you will not only be participating in Da’wah, you’ll be rewarded for Sadaqah Jaariyah (ongoing charity) as your donation may cause a ripple effect, touching future generations, or it may mean someone accepting Islam and practicing it. 5. Distribute Authentic Islamic literature- Spread the publications of the truthful and righteous scholars to create awareness and promote their cause of defending Islam. 6. Start a study circle- Have you thought about joining or starting a study circle? Ask reliable ulama to guide and check your notes so that you may actively pass on authentic information to your peers. Attend classes where we can learn the Tafseer of the noble Quran and get back to the basics such as Wudhu (ablution) and Salaah. 7. Encourage – Your husband and men folk in the family and make them realize their duty to Allah and the Ummah. When we support and aid their efforts in Da’wah and upholding the banner of Islam, we will be rewarded just as much. Allow your husband time to spend in this cause and help him in any way you can. 8. Teach your children- Bringing up our children to love Allah and defend Islam is our most important Da’wah task! Our children and spouses need to be given Da’wah first. Remember that everything you do to increase their knowledge and make them strong, righteous people is priceless and will be rewarded. Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said, “All of you are shepherds and are responsible for their flocks. A leader is a shepherd and is responsible for his flock. A man is a shepherd over his family and is responsible for his flock. A woman is the shepherd in the house of her husband and is responsible for her flock. idealwoman.org

I am now at the prime age of 28, of course much more maturer than when I started my modelling career at the very young age of 17. Being a young teenager, of course, I was in love with fashion and clothes, and took an opporturnity to walk the 'cat walk' , not only did I get fame, money and attention, I obtained lots of free dresses now and then. However, that fame & attention which I attracted, as I look back, indeed, its nothing to be proud of. I remember, I would enter the dressing room, I would have personal attention from the hairdresser, the beauty therapist and they would groom me to look like a professional model. I was told to wear 'tighter' underwear as it was important for 'Sales' to go up. At that time, I didnt think much of it, I was a hungry teenager looking for fame and money. As I walked out on the catwalk, the music banter was very much pitched up to get everyone excited, the green flag was given to me, as my manager shouted to me, "Go on girl, shown them what you got" and I took on the stage, very proud, young and energetic. I still remember walking down the catwalk, tight clothing of the traditional 'shalwar kameez' from the East, half naked arms, high heels, aritifical air fans gently blowing air from the overcast , giving my hair the bounce that was required and yes, the men, the men were stared on me: I could see from the corner of my eye, the way they were closely staring at me, talking with their friends about my figure and were photographing me. I must admit, it did get me annoyed, but the chase of the duniya and making money overshadowed my ignorance, increasing my sins. I quit modelling at the age of 24. The final blow came, when I was watching a video of my catwalk show, I remember how my manager told me with static pride, " You dressed up excellent in that particular show, we sold more DVD'S at the show than we sold of the clothing! The men love it". I felt ashamed and I felt lost. Was I going to be seen thousands of men around the world, for them to get cheap thrills, and to be known as a model for the wrong reason, for the fame of my body? I felt truly very upset and I felt ashamed of what disrespect I had given to myself and my father who passed away when I was a kid. Abida, a close friend at University, was so right, she would always say to me : " Sister, Muslim sisters cover themselves, we have respect, we only show and beautify ourselves for our husbands, not for men we dont know. What are you going to do tomorrow when you have kids and you are older? How will they feel knowing their mum used to dress so 'loosely' and their mother is on DVD being watched by men around the World"? If only I listened to Abida. She was so right. I learnt the hard way, I let money and fame dictate my life. My youth features have now gone, I was 'used' by the fashion industry to make hundreds of thousands of pound in profit but at a huge expense: I have lost my self respect as a Muslimah. I have shamed myself in front of other men. I now live in total regret, I was used, and God knows how many men have seen my catwalks and eyed every part of my body. Indeed, I feel ashamed. What will my future kids think of me. Is this what their mother used to do? Not the ideal islamic role model, I accept. However, I am now much closer to Allah swt, I have repented, and I know that Allah swt is looking for His creation to return back to Him. Please make Duaa for me, that Allah swt forgives me. I only hope and pray, that my personal experience, will help other sisters to never go into modelling on the catwalk, it brings no reward at all, it simply introduces men to 'cheap' thrills by examining your body. Dont live to regret it, I certainly have and will live in deep regret for the rest of my life. I truly understand why Allah swt has given us sisters in Islam so much honour and respect, for tomorrow, we will be mothers who will have to be responsible for all the choices we make in our youth. I salute all those sisters who covered themselves up from a young age, insha'Allah, when you are mothers, you will have children who will be proud of you when they grow up and you will not risk for people to 'point the finger' at you , putting salt on your wounds, rediscovering your past. And Allah swt knows best. Make Dua for me brothers and sisters. Sister in Islam, London, United Kingdom everymuslim.net

Question Is it permissible to make Masah on Sealskin socks? Answer In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. The original SealSkinz socks fulfill all the conditions of a leather sock (Mozah); therefore, it is permissible for one to make Masah on the original SealSkinz socks. We cannot comment on the fake sealskinz socks as we have not seen them. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Moulana Ismail Desai, Student Darul Iftaa Durban, South Africa Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. Hereunder is the original Fatwa of Mufti Ebrahim Desai Saheb (Damat Barakatuhum) on SealSkinz socks: Q) What is your view regarding making Masah on Sealskinz socks. Do they fulfil the sharii requirement of masah? Answer In the name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful Assalaamu `alaykum waRahmatullahi Wabarakatoh In order for it to be permissible to wipe on non-leather socks, it is imperative to fulfil all the conditions of leather socks. After thoroughly studying the inherent qualities of leather socks, our illustrious Fuqaha suggest that non-leather socks should resemble leather socks in the following: 1. They should entirely cover both the ankles. 2. They should be durable enough that a person can walk with the sock for three miles without them tearing. 3. Both socks should independently be free from holes to the extent of three small toes. 4. The socks should remain on the leg without it being tied or fastened. 5. They should be such that water does not seep through them. [Al Mabsoot lil Sarakhsi (1/18, 184 Dar al Fikr), Al Muheet al Burhani (1/343, Al Majlis al Ilmi), Ahkam al Quran lil Jassaas (3/440, Dar al Kutub al Ilmiyyah), Tuhfa al Mulook (1/33, Dar al Bashaair al Islamiyyah), Majma al Anhur (1/75, Dar al kutub al Ilmiyyah), Al Bahr ar raaiq (1/191, 192 Dar al Ma’rifah), Tabyeen al haqaaiq 1/52 Dar al kutub al Ilmiyyah), Al Fatawa al Hindiyyah (1/32, Dar al fikr), Ad Dur al Mukhtaar (1/269, Dar al fikr), Tuhfa al Ahwadhi (1/278, Dar al kutub al Ilmiyyah), Al Maslak adh Dhaki (1/29, Wajidi Publishers), Fatawa Mahmoodiyyah (5/195, Farooqiyyah), Fatawa Haqqaniyyah (2/216, Dar al Uloom Haqqaniyyah), Kifayah al Mufti (2/321, Farouqiyyah, Fatawa Darul Uloom Zakariyyah (1/509-5516, Zam Zam Publishers) (كتاب الحجة علي أهل المدينة – (ج 1 / ص 44 عالم الكتب)ينبغي لمن قاس علي السنة و الآثار أن يقيس علي السنة ما لم يأت فيه أثر لما قد جاءت فيه الآثار مما يشبهه (بداية المجتهد- (ج 1 / ص 52 دار الاسلام) و من صح عنده الأثر أو جوز القياس علي الخف أجاز المسح علي الجوربين شرح فتح القدير - (ج 1 / ص 157 دار الفكر)لا شك أن المسح على الخف على خلاف القياس فلا يصلح إلحاق غيره به إلا إذا كان بطريق الدلالة وهو أن يكون في معناه ومعناه الساتر لمحل الفرض الذي هو بصدد متابعة المشي فيه في السفر وغيره للقطع بأن تعليق المسح بالخف ليس لصورته الخاصة بل لمعناه للزوم الحرج في النزع المتكرر في أوقات الصلاة خصوصا مع آداب السير We have personally examined ‘sealskinz’ socks and are satisfied that they fulfil all the above-mentioned conditions. One can refer to their website to see the full durability of these socks. Hence, it is permissible to use ‘sealskinz’ socks as leather socks and make masah on them. And Allah knows best Checked and Approved by: Mufti Ebrahim Desai http://www.askimam.org/public/question_detail/21184

By Abu Ibrahim Ismail, founder of Islamic Learning Materials Ever wish you could read your husband’s mind? Western culture encourages husbands and wives to talk to each other and discuss things. However, in many Muslim cultures, men are raised to be stoic and tight-lipped. Muslim husbands are very often (not always) reluctant to talk about certain things with their wives. Part of the problem is also that sometimes it is hard to actually formulate our thoughts into the right words. The only thing more difficult than translating thoughts to words is translating feelings to words. 1. Above All, He Desires Your Respect It’s important that Muslim women understand the value of respect for men, especially Muslim men. In Islam, men are taught from a young age that they are supposed to be the bread-winners and caretakers of their families. You can imagine how frustrating it would be for a man, who tries his best to care for his family, to be married to a woman who doesn’t respect him. She may declare that she loves him, but without her respect, he will quickly fall out of love with her. This idea is put forward in the Quran where Allah says: Men are in charge of women by what Allah has given one over the other and what they spend from their wealth. So righteous women are devoutly obedient, guarding in [the husband's] absence what Allah would have them guard. Chapter 4, Verse 34 2. He Desires Your Loyalty This goes hand in hand with respect. There’s nothing that will ruin a marriage quicker than the idea that your spouse is not loyal. The idea, that he or she is not going to stick by you. I’m not talking about infidelity. This is what usually comes to mind when people talk about loyalty in a marriage. What I’m talking about is knowing that the person whom you’ve chosen to spend the rest of your life with is going to be there for you when you really need them. Most men won’t admit it, but we do need women. And we do need your support. And it’s very troubling to be married to a woman who may not be around when the going gets tough. If you are constantly threatening divorce or separation or Khula (Islamic divorce initiated by the wife), you can expect your marriage to fizzle out very quickly. Your husband needs to know that you’re going to be by his side if: He loses his job and the money gets tight. He tries to do something (like start a business or go back to school) but fails at it. His reputation is tarnished or his honor is attacked. You should be loyal to your husband before everything else except Allah and His Messenger (pbuh). If you’re loyal to your husband, than rest assured he’ll be loyal to you. 3. He Wants To Have Sex More Often Let’s get this right out into the open. Some women might think men are narrow-minded brutes for this, but it’s the truth. Men desire sex. Men really desire sex. So when you give him the following excuses: “I’ve got a headache.” “I’m not feeling good.” “Can’t it wait till the weekend? I’m really not in the mood.” Know that your husband is going to go to sleep a little upset with you, even if he doesn’t show it. And do this often enough, he’s going to start resenting you. And that resentment will build up and may lead to him being unnecessarily mean to you or losing some love. Please keep the following hadith in mind: When a man calls his wife to his bed, and she does not respond and he (the husband) spends the night angry with her, the angels curse her until morning. Bukhari and Muslim. Something to think about. 4. He Thinks About Other Women Okay, first of all, calm down. Let me explain this. Most men think about other women. It doesn’t mean he’s going to cheat on you. It doesn’t mean he’s thinking about taking a second wife. It doesn’t mean he’s fantasizing about another woman. It just means that all (straight) men do, at some point in their lives, consider having another woman (i.e. wife). You’re better off coming to terms with this and accepting it than having false, purile notions about men. The best way to combat these thoughts are to apply the advice given in the first three secrets: Respect him. Be loyal to him. Give him physical love when he wants it. Does this mean he’ll never take a second wife if you do these three things? Of course not. But it will raise your value in his mind relative to other woman and he’ll be all the more reluctant to look for those three things (respect, loyalty, and sex) elsewhere. 5. He Wants To Make You Happy Why do you think men work so hard to make money? Why do you think men are willing to leave their jobs and risk starting a business? Why do you think men like buying women gifts? Because deep down, we really just want to make you happy. :) Sometimes we screw it up and forget our anniversary. But we really would prefer to remember because we know it would make you happy. So when your husband buys you a gift, accept it, rejoice over it, thank him profusely, and use it as often as possible. If he buys you some jewelry, wear it. If he buys you a new smartphone, use it. If he buys you perfume, put on for him in the confines of your home. And don’t be so quick to nag him about the things he doesn’t do right. Because then he’ll start feeling that you don’t respect (there’s that word again) the things he does do for you. 6. If You Gently Nudge Him, He Can Be A Better Muslim Nobody’s perfect. Perhaps your husband isn’t a Muslim scholar. Perhaps he’s not the best Muslim in the world. You can nudge him to make him better. But you can’t force him. Do little things to get him to improve his Islam. Offer to wake him up for Salaatul Fajr. Encourage him to make Salaah at the Masjid. Tell him how much nicer he’d look if he grew his beard. This takes deliberate words, a soft touch, and careful action. No one likes to be preached to. But if you do this right, you’ll be getting a double reward: The reward that comes with living with a righteous husband. And the reward in the next life for encouraging your husband to the truth. Except for those who have believed and done righteous deeds and advised each other to truth and advised each other to patience. Chapter 103, Verse 3 7. He Loves You, Even If He Doesn’t Always Show It I know, this one may be kinda hard to swallow. But it’s true (usually). Men are just not that good at showing emotion (unless we’re talking sports or politics). We don’t tell our wives “I love you” often enough. We’re not perfect. And constantly comparing us to Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) ain’t helping. Of course, we are supposed to emulate him (pbuh) as much as we can. And for most of us, we are doing the best we can. But we just can’t treat you the same way he (pbuh) treated his wives. Similarly, it’s unfair for men to expect their wives to behave like Aisha (RA) and his other wives (RA) did. Just because your husband doesn’t treat you in the way (you think) the Prophet (pbuh) treated his wives, doesn’t mean your husband doesn’t love you. It just means he’s human. It is very important that you understand this. If he’s doing his best to take care of you. If he doesn’t abuse you or sleep around. If he sincerely tries to solve your problems and helps you in the best way he can. Then chances are he loves you. A lot. Author: Abu Ibrahim Ismail, founder of Islamic Learning Materials Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net

What’s Going On Under the Hijab? Most men have a hard time understanding women. Even a woman they’ve been married to for years. One minute she’s perfectly fine. The next, she’s crying like a baby. She complains about something but when we offer advice on how to fix it, she still isn’t satisfied. After several years of marriage (and counselling) I’ve learned to not worry so much about what my wife says. Instead, I should worry about what she doesn’t say. With this information in mind, I’ve put together a quick list of things Muslim men should be aware of when it comes to their wife’s mind. 1. Above All, She Wants Your Love This harkens back to a post I wrote a couple of months ago called “Love or Respect: Which Do You Prefer?” In this article I explained that men desire respect from their wives, and women desire love from their husbands. When a wife shows her husband less respect, he in turn shows her less love. And when a husband shows his wife less love, she in turn shows him less respect. And the vicious cycle repeats itself. Stop this prophecy before it becomes self-fulfilling. Show love to your wife. That’s what she wants. Love her despite her flaws and quirks. And Inshallah, she’ll respect you despite your flaws and quirks. 2. She’s Bored It’s the same thing every day. Week in and week out. Not only is she bored but she’s also tired. She has to care for the kids and run the household and then pamper you. Just thinking about doing that every day makes me want to crawl under my covers and hide. I can imagine how the average Muslim housewife must feel. And let’s not forget about working woman. Many Muslim women have to work a full time job as well as hold a house down. So brothers, I implore you, make your wife feel special. Give her a break. Take her out sometimes. Surprise her with a surprise meal. Bring her favorite desert home. Just do something every now and then to break the monotany. 3. She Wants to Be Complimented Appreciation. Everybody wants it. No one wants to feel as if the hard work they do goes unnoticed or even worse, it taken for granted. Your wife does not have to clean your dirty clothes. And she does not have to cook your meals. But she does. And she does that on top of all the other things in her life: Working or going to school. Caring for the kids. Striving to be a better Muslimah. Show your Muslim wife that you appreciate and are thankful for the things she does to maintain you and your family. A simple “thank you” is a good start. 4. She’s Insanely Jealous There’s a reason most women don’t care for polygamy. Be very careful how you talk about other women around your wife. Don’t ever compare your wife to another woman. Don’t compare her to any other female, except to encourage her to emulate the pious Sahabiyyah. Don’t compare her to your mother. Never, ever compare her to your ex-wife (or other wife!) She’s wants to know and believe that she is the center of your universe. So make her feel that way. Even the Prophet’s (pbuh) wives got jealous. Aisha (RA) even got jealous of Khadijah (RA) who was dead. Expect, and respect, the same type of jealousy from your wife. 5. She Wants You to Help Her Become A Better Muslimah If you haven’t seen it yet, I encourage you to watch this video I did a couple of weeks ago for Muslim men. In this video I stress the importance of men taking the role of leader within their families. And that’s the problem with a lot of Muslim men these days. Not only are they not being good leaders, they’re being led by their wives (or mothers, or other women in their lives). Your wife desires and wants you to be her leader. And what better way to lead her than to be show her how to be a better Muslimah? But you can’t show her how to become better if you’re not that great either. Therefore, you have to upgrade your Iman. You have to improve yourself and then pass it on to her in a gentle, respectful way. 6. She Doesn’t Like to Nag, But Sometimes You Make It Hard It’s a common myth that women like to nag their husbands. That’s not entirely true. Yes, there are some people (men and women) whom you can never please. No matter what you do, they’ll always find fault in something. Let’s be reminded of the following hadith: Narrated Ibn ‘Abbas: The Prophet said: “I was shown the Hell-fire and that the majority of its dwellers were women who were ungrateful.” It was asked, “Do they disbelieve in Allah?” (or are they ungrateful to Allah?) He replied, “They are ungrateful to their husbands and are ungrateful for the favors and the good (charitable deeds) done to them. If you have always been good (benevolent) to one of them and then she sees something in you (not of her liking), she will say, ‘I have never received any good from you.” Sahih Bukhari So, yes sisters should be careful about denegrating the things your husband does for you. But very often, you Brother, make it hard for her to hold your tongue. Perhaps you’re always finding fault with her and she looks for things in your character to get even. Perhaps you’re not working (or not working hard enough) and she has to work to take up some slack. Perhaps you’re just not that great of a guy. Once again, upgrade yourself and give her less reasons to complain and nag. 7. More Than Anything, She Wants a Stable, Happy Relationship With You Women don’t get married just because they think it’s gonna be fun. They get married because they want a happy family life and they believe you’re gonna give it to them. Outside of her religious duties, that’s the most important thing in a Muslim woman’s life. Raising a happy, stable, Muslim family. The funny thing is, it’s very easy for you to give that to her. Stop acting like a jerk. Be a good husband to her. Be kind. Show her you love her. Don’t threaten her with divorce or taking a second wife. Yes, you have the right to do both. But using them as threats is inappropriate and detrimental to your marriage. Trust in Allah, watch out for the tricks of Shaytan, and be patient with her. There’s nothing Shaytan would love more than to destroy your marriage. Author: Abu Ibrahim Ismail, founder of Islamic Learning Materials Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net

By Shahnaaz Bemath It's an icy cold winter's morning sitting in the comforts of my home and enjoying a hot cuppa coffee. Suddenly feelings of inner contentment and serenity engulf me. It dawns on me - far too many women feel unimportant, unrecognised and apologetic for being full-time housewives. I prefer the term 'homemaker' - an infinitely better description of a tremendously important role. And so, as an occasion arises with its heavy demands on women, let us reflect upon the vital art of homemaking. How special you feel in a home that is always open with a warm welcome. The kind of old-fashioned home with enough love to spare for outsiders, which beckons you to sit down and relax. In it you'll find a wise blend of order and flexibility. A mother who doesn't fuss if her children and friends run in and out... who is never too busy to sit down for a chat with a friend, a confused teenager or lonely widow. Not that she isn't busy or creative. She probably is, but she recognizes one of the advantages of being Queen of the Home; of having flexitime, which allows her to set aside plans in order to help someone in need, or to rush into the garden to share a small wonder with a child. Lifestyles and options are changing. Many women need, or prefer to work. But full-time home making is a career option, which allows you to make of it what you will. It requires many skills ranging from communication and management to cookery and economics. She'll find time to listen to her family, to friends young and old, rendering invaluable emotional "first-aid." A good homemaker knows the home is the heart of society - a place where family and friends can be nurtured. In swiftly changing times it can be provide a sense of security and continuity where children soak up happy experiences and memories that will affect their whole lives. If you're a bride, anticipate your career as a homemaker with joy. If you're a mature woman who has spent years learning the art of home-making, never be apologetic about being 'only a housewife.' Glow with pride at having chosen such a vital role. I have come to value this 'way of life' through the will and grace of ALLAH TA'ALA by blessing me with a stay-at-home mother who showered me with guidance, compassion, generosity and love. And I in turn will do the same to my kids. May ALLAH TA'ALA give us all women the faith of Aasiyah (Radhiyallahu Anha), purity of Maryam (Radhiyallahu Anha), love of Khadija (Radhiyallahu Anha), affection and knowledge of Aa'ishah (Radhiyallahu Anha), and the favour of being with them in Jannah. Aameen. Courtesy: www.everymuslim.net

Jazakallah. InshaAllah these posters will be very helpful. May Allah subhaanahu wata'ala grant guidance

Please refer Here for the full fatwa of when the Salaah is invalidated.

Question: Mufti saab, can please explain the status of the salat, if during the prayer the back becomes visible and sometimes to the extent the private part becomes visible. Because its become a common thing people come to the masjid with such short T-shirts that during ruku and sajda everything is visible. Also at times during a congregation salat it becomes visible to the person praying behind. Is the person praying behind salat invalidated as well.. somebody told me that the salat is invalid. Some people told me that even the wudhu breaks. Please Clarify Jazakallah Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. In principle, if a quarter of a limb within the ‘awrah (private area which must be concealed during prayer) is exposed with intent or without concern, the Salāh will be invalidated instantly, even if it be for a moment.[1] The ‘awrah of a male in Salāh is from the belly button to the knees. The ‘awrah of a female in Salāh is her entire body besides her face, hands and feet.[2] However, if a quarter of a limb within the ‘awrah was exposed mistakenly or involuntarily, Salāh will only be invalidated if it remained exposed for the duration of reciting Subhāna Rabī al-‘Alā three times.[3] If less than quarter of a limb within the ‘awrah was exposed involuntarily or a quarter of a limb within the ‘awrah was exposed less than the duration of reciting Subhāna Rabī al-‘Alā three times, the Salāh will not be invalidated.[4] The limbs within the ‘awrah for males are as follows: 1) The whole reproductive organ 2) The testicles 3) The anus[5] 4) Each buttock is an individual limb 5) Each thigh with the knee is an individual limb 6) From the navel to the pubic area and the area parallel to this from the sides and back. The limbs within the ‘awrah for females are as follows: 1) The whole reproductive organ 2) The anus 3) Each buttock is an individual limb 4) Each thigh with the knee is an individual limb 5) From the navel to the pubic area and the area parallel to this from the sides and back. 6) Each calf with the ankle is an individual limb 7) Each breast is an individual limb 8 ) Each ear in an individual limb 9) Each upper arm with the elbow is an individual limb 10) Each forearm with the wrist is an individual limb 11) The hair 12) The head 13) The neck 14) Each shoulder is an individual limb[6] Coming back to the question, each buttock is regarded as an individual limb as cited above. Therefore, if even a quarter of one buttock is exposed due to carelessness and lack of concern, the Salāh will be invalidated instantly. If a quarter of one buttock is exposed involuntarily or mistakenly for the duration of reciting Subhāna Rabī al-‘Alā three times, the Salāh will be invalidated. It is common that the top section of both buttocks is revealed simultaneously. When multiple limbs from the ‘awrah are exposed, and the total amount exposed is equivalent to a quarter of the smallest limb, the Salāh will be invalidated with the conditions stipulated above. Therefore, if even one-eighth (1/8) of both buttocks is exposed, the Salāh will be invalidated instantly if it is on account of carelessness and lack of concern. If one-eighth of both buttocks is exposed involuntarily or mistakenly for the duration of reciting Subhāna Rabī al-‘Alā three times, the Salāh will be invalidated.[7] [1] (وَيُمْنَعُ) حَتَّى انْعِقَادَهَا (كَشْفُ رُبْعِ عُضْوٍ) قَدْرَ أَدَاءِ رُكْنٍ بِلَا صُنْعِهِ (مِنْ) عَوْرَةٍ غَلِيظَةٍ أَوْ خَفِيفَةٍ عَلَى الْمُعْتَمَدِ (وَالْغَلِيظَةُ قُبُلٌ وَدُبُرٌ وَمَا حَوْلَهُمَا، وَالْخَفِيفَةُ مَا عَدَا ذَلِكَ) مِنْ الرَّجُلِ وَالْمَرْأَةِ، وَتُجْمَعُ بِالْأَجْزَاءِ لَوْ فِي عُضْوٍ وَاحِدٍ، وَإِلَّا فَبِالْقَدْرِ؛ فَإِنْ بَلَغَ رُبْعَ أَدْنَاهَا كَأُذُنٍ مُنِعَ (الدر المختار ج 1 ص 407-408 أيج أيم سعيد) أحسن الفتاوى ج 3 ص 399 أيج أيم سعيد (قَوْلُهُ بِلَا صُنْعِهِ) فَلَوْ بِهِ فَسَدَتْ فِي الْحَالِ عِنْدَهُمْ قُنْيَةٌ (حاشية ابن عابدين ج 1 ص 408 أيج أيم سعيد) [2] [حد العورة] 1 – وعورة الرجل ما بين السرة ومنتهى الركبة. 2 – وتزيد عليه الأمة البطن والظهر. 3 – وجميع بدن الحرة عورة إلا وجهها وكفيها وقدميها. 4 -[كشف العورة] وكشف ربع عضو من أعضاء العورة يمنع صحة الصلاة. ولو تفرق الانكشاف على أعضاء من العورة وكان جملة ما تفرق يبلغ ربع أصغر الأعضاء المنكشفة منه وإلا فلا.( نور الإيضاح ونجاة الأرواح في الفقه الحنفي ص 53 العصرية) [3] (قَوْلُهُ قَدْرَ أَدَاءِ رُكْنٍ) أَيْ بِسُنَّتِهِ مُنْيَةٌ. قَالَ شَارِحُهَا: وَذَلِكَ قَدْرُ ثَلَاثِ تَسْبِيحَاتٍ اهـ وَكَأَنَّهُ قَيَّدَ بِذَلِكَ حَمْلًا لِلرُّكْنِ عَلَى الْقَصِيرِ مِنْهُ لِلِاحْتِيَاطِ، وَإِلَّا فَالْقُعُودُ الْأَخِيرُ وَالْقِيَامُ الْمُشْتَمِلُ عَلَى الْقِرَاءَةِ الْمَسْنُونَةِ أَكْثَرُ مِنْ ذَلِكَ، ثُمَّ مَا ذَكَرَهُ الشَّارِحُ قَوْلُ أَبِي يُوسُفَ. وَاعْتَبَرَ مُحَمَّدٌ أَدَاءَ الرُّكْنِ حَقِيقَةً، وَالْأَوَّلُ الْمُخْتَارُ لِلِاحْتِيَاطِ كَمَا فِي شَرْحِ الْمُنْيَةِ، وَاحْتُرِزَ عَمَّا إذَا انْكَشَفَ رُبْعُ عُضْوٍ أَقَلَّ مِنْ قَدْرِ أَدَاءِ رُكْنٍ فَلَا يُفْسِدُ اتِّفَاقًا لِأَنَّ الِانْكِشَافَ الْكَثِيرَ فِي الزَّمَانِ الْقَلِيلِ عَفْوٌ كَالِانْكِشَافِ الْقَلِيلِ فِي الزَّمَنِ الْكَثِيرِ، وَعَمَّا إذَا أَدَّى مَعَ الِانْكِشَافِ رُكْنًا فَإِنَّهَا تَفْسُدُ اتِّفَاقًا قَالَ ح: وَاعْلَمْ أَنَّ هَذَا التَّفْصِيلَ فِي الِانْكِشَافِ الْحَادِثِ فِي أَثْنَاءِ الصَّلَاةِ، أَمَّا الْمُقَارِنُ لِابْتِدَائِهَا فَإِنَّهُ يَمْنَعُ انْعِقَادَهَا مُطْلَقًا اتِّفَاقًا بَعْدَ أَنْ يَكُونَ الْمَكْشُوفُ رُبْعَ الْعُضْوِ، وَكَلَامُ الشَّارِحِ يُوهِمُ أَنَّ قَوْلَهُ قَدْرَ أَدَاءِ رُكْنٍ قَيْدٌ فِي مَنْعِ الِانْعِقَادِ أَيْضًا. اهـ. (قَوْلُهُ بِلَا صُنْعِهِ) فَلَوْ بِهِ فَسَدَتْ فِي الْحَالِ عِنْدَهُمْ قُنْيَةٌ قَالَ ح: أَيْ وَإِنْ كَانَ أَقَلَّ مِنْ أَدَاءِ رُكْنٍ. اهـ. وَفِي الْخَانِيَّةِ إذَا طُرِحَ الْمُقْتَدِي فِي الزَّحْمَةِ أَمَامَ الْإِمَامِ، أَوْ فِي صَفِّ النِّسَاءِ أَوْ مَكَان نَجَسٍ، أَوْ حَوَّلُوهُ عَنْ الْقِبْلَةِ أَوْ طَرَحُوا إزَارَهُ، أَوْ سَقَطَ عَنْهُ ثَوْبُهُ، أَوْ انْكَشَفَتْ عَوْرَتُهُ، فَفِيمَا إذَا تَعَمَّدَ ذَلِكَ فَسَدَتْ صَلَاتُهُ وَإِنْ قَلَّ، وَإِلَّا فَإِنْ أَدَّى رُكْنًا فَكَذَلِكَ، وَإِلَّا فَإِنْ مَكَثَ بِعُذْرٍ لَا تَفْسُدُ فِي قَوْلِهِمْ، وَإِلَّا فَفِي ظَاهِرِ الرِّوَايَةِ عَنْ مُحَمَّدٍ تَفْسُدُ اهـ لَكِنْ فِي الْخَانِيَّةِ أَيْضًا مَا يَدُلُّ عَلَى عَدَمِ اشْتِرَاطِ قَوْلِهِ بِلَا صُنْعٍ، فَإِنَّهُ قَالَ لَوْ تَحَوَّلَ إلَى مَكَان نَجَسٍ، إنْ لَمْ يَمْكُثْ عَلَى النَّجَاسَةِ قَدْرَ أَدْنَى رُكْنٍ جَازَتْ صَلَاتُهُ وَإِلَّا فَلَا، وَكَذَا فِي مُنْيَةِ الْمُصَلِّي. قَالَ: وَكَذَا إنْ رَفَعَ نَعْلَيْهِ وَعَلَيْهِمَا قَذَرٌ مَانِعٌ إنْ أَدَّى مَعَهُمَا رُكْنًا فَسَدَتْ وَذَكَرَ نَحْوَ ذَلِكَ فِي الْحِلْيَةِ عَنْ الذَّخِيرَةِ وَالْبَدَائِعِ وَغَيْرِهِمَا. ثُمَّ قَالَ: وَالْأَشْبَهُ الْفَسَادُ مَعَ التَّعَمُّدِ إلَّا لِحَاجَةٍ كَرَفْعِ نَعْلِهِ (حاشية ابن عابدين ج 1 ص 408 أيج أيم سعيد) أحسن الفتاوى ج 3 ص 399 أيج أيم سعيد [4] وَالِانْكِشَافُ الْكَثِيرُ فِي الزَّمَنِ الْقَلِيلِ لَا يَمْنَعُ الْجَوَازَ، حَتَّى لَوْ انْكَشَفَتْ عَوْرَتُهُ كُلُّهَا وَغَطَّاهَا فِي الْحَالِ لَا تَفْسُدُ صَلَاتُهُ وَالْقَلِيلُ مُقَدَّرٌ بِمَا لَا يُؤَدِّي فِيهِ الرُّكْنَ (تبيين الحقائق ج 1 ص 96 إمدادية) والمراد بكشف العورة ما يعم كشف ربع العضو منها (حاشية الطحطاوي ص 337 دار الكتب) [5] (وَحَلَقَةِ الدُّبُرِ بِمُفْرَدِهَا) احْتَرَزَ بِهِ عَمَّا قِيلَ الدُّبُرُ عُضْوٌ مَعَ الْأَلْيَتَيْنِ (مجمع الأنهر ج 1 ص 81 دار إحياء التراث العربي) وَاخْتَلَفُوا فِي الدُّبُرِ هَلْ هُوَ عَوْرَةٌ مَعَ الْأَلْيَتَيْنِ أَوْ كُلِّ أَلْيَةٍ مِنْهُمَا عَوْرَةٌ عَلَى حِدَةٍ وَالدُّبُرُ ثَالِثُهُمَا وَالصَّحِيحُ أَنَّهُ ثَالِثُهُمَا (تبيين الحقائق ج 1 ص 96 إمدادية) [6] [تَتِمَّةٌ] أَعْضَاءُ عَوْرَةِ الرَّجُلِ ثَمَانِيَةٌ: الْأَوَّلُ الذَّكَرُ وَمَا حَوْلَهُ. الثَّانِي الْأُنْثَيَانِ وَمَا حَوْلَهُمَا. الثَّالِثُ الدُّبُرُ وَمَا حَوْلَهُ. الرَّابِعُ وَالْخَامِسُ الْأَلْيَتَانِ. السَّادِسُ وَالسَّابِعُ الْفَخِذَانِ مَعَ الرُّكْبَتَيْنِ. الثَّامِنُ مَا بَيْنَ السُّرَّةِ إلَى الْعَانَةِ مَعَ مَا يُحَاذِي ذَلِكَ مِنْ الْجَنْبَيْنِ وَالظَّهْرِ وَالْبَطْنِ. وَفِي الْأَمَةِ ثَمَانِيَةٌ أَيْضًا: الْفَخِذَانِ مَعَ الرُّكْبَتَيْنِ، وَالْأَلْيَتَانِ وَالْقُبُلُ مَعَ مَا حَوْلَهُ، وَالدُّبُرُ كَذَلِكَ، وَالْبَطْنُ وَالظَّهْرُ مَعَ مَا يَلِيهِمَا مِنْ الْجَنْبَيْنِ. وَفِي الْحُرَّةِ هَذِهِ الثَّمَانِيَةُ، وَيُزَادُ فِيهَا سِتَّةَ عَشَرَ: السَّاقَانِ مَعَ الْكَعْبَيْنِ، وَالثَّدْيَانِ الْمُنْكَسِرَانِ، وَالْأُذُنَانِ، وَالْعَضُدَانِ مَعَ الْمِرْفَقَيْنِ، وَالذِّرَاعَانِ مَعَ الرُّسْغَيْنِ وَالصَّدْرُ، وَالرَّأْسُ، وَالشَّعْرُ، وَالْعُنُقُ، وَظَهْرُ الْكَفَّيْنِ. وَيَنْبَغِي أَنْ يُزَادَ فِيهَا أَيْضًا الْكَتِفَانِ وَلَا يُجْعَلَانِ مَعَ الظَّهْرِ عُضْوًا وَاحِدًا، بِدَلِيلِ أَنَّهُمْ جَعَلُوا ظَهْرَ الْأَمَةِ عَوْرَةً دُونَ كَتِفَيْهَا وَكَذَلِكَ بَطْنَا الْقَدَمَيْنِ عَوْرَةٌ فِي رِوَايَةٍ أَيْ وَهِيَ الْأَصَحُّ كَمَا قَدَّمْنَاهُ عَنْ إعَانَةِ الْحَقِيرِ لِلْمُصَنِّفِ، فَتَصِيرُ ثَمَانِيَةً وَعِشْرِينَ كَذَا حَرَّرَهُ ح. قُلْت: وَقَدَّمْنَا عَنْ التَّتَارْخَانِيَّة أَنَّ صَدْرَ الْأَمَةِ وَثَدْيَيْهَا عَوْرَةٌ، وَقَدَّمْنَا أَيْضًا عَنْ الْقُنْيَةِ أَنَّ جَنْبَيْهَا عَوْرَةٌ مُسْتَقِلَّةٌ عَلَى أَحَدِ قَوْلَيْنِ، وَعَلَيْهِ فَتُزَادُ الْأَمَةُ خَمْسَةً عَلَى الثَّمَانِيَةِ الْمَارَّةِ فَتَصِيرُ أَعْضَاؤُهَا ثَلَاثَةَ عَشَرَ، وَاَللَّهُ تَعَالَى أَعْلَمُ (حاشية ابن عابدين ج 1 ص 409 أيج أيم سعيد) وَالذَّكَرُ يُعْتَبَرُ بِانْفِرَادِهِ وَكَذَا الْأُنْثَيَانِ هُوَ الصَّحِيحُ. هَكَذَا فِي الْهِدَايَةِ وَالْأَلْيَتَانِ كُلُّ وَاحِدَةٍ مِنْهُمَا عَوْرَةٌ عَلَى حِدَةٍ وَالدُّبُرُ ثَالِثُهُمَا هُوَ الصَّحِيحُ كَذَا فِي شَرْحِ الْمَجْمَعِ لِابْنِ الْمَلَكِ وَهَكَذَا فِي التَّبْيِينِ. (الهندية ج 1 ص 59 الرشيدية) [7] ولو تفرق الانكشاف على أعضاء من العورة وكان جملة ما تفرق يبلغ ربع أصغر الأعضاء المنكشفة منه وإلا فلا.( نور الإيضاح ونجاة الأرواح في الفقه الحنفي ص 53 العصرية) And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best Mufti Faraz al-Mahmudi, www.darulfiqh.com

The first thing you should do to enable you to study with ease is to condition your mind to love what you are studying. The more you love what you are studying, the more you will find it easy to spend with your studies. The most important thing you can do to make it easy to commit your study material to your mind and understand them is to enjoy studying each of the subjects. Hereunder are a few practical solutions: 1) Choose a quiet spot in your house where you will be comfortable studying. That spot should only be used for studying. Arrange that area in such a way that you feel comfortable studying there. However, do not make it too comfortable by using soft pillows etc. as this will induce sleep when you sit to study. This area should be in a room where you are alone. It should be quiet and away from all distractions. 2) Before you study, perform two Rakāts of Ṣalātul Hājah seeking the help of Allah Taʿālā to open your mind to what you are going to study. Recite the following two Duas after you have read the two Rakāts: {رَبِّ اشْرَحْ لِيْ صَدْرِيْ وَيَسِّرْ لِيْ أَمْرِيْ وَاحْلُلْ عُقْدَةً مِّنْ لِّسَانِيْ يَفْقَهُوْا قَوْلِيْ} [طه: 25 – 28] {رَبِّ زِدْنِيْ عِلْمًا} [طه: 114](The Dua of Mūsā ʿAlaihis Salām) Oh my Lord, open my heart for me and ease my task for me and untie the knot from my tongue so that they may understand my speech. [surah Ṭāhā, V. 25-28] (The Dua Nabi Ṣallallāhu ʿalaihi wa Sallam was instructed to make) Oh my Lord, increase me in knowledge. [surah Ṭāhā, V. 114] 3) Give up all activities that distract you from studying, e.g. playing games, chatting to friends, social networking, etc. Giving up these things will keep your mind concentrated while you are studying and will give you more time to dedicate to your studies. 4) Try your best to remain in the state of Wudhu while studying. 5) When you feel sleepy, wash your face and continue studying. 6) Focus on understanding the lesson you are revising rather than memorizing it. Consult the teacher of each subject to find out how to study that subject and what to focus on in each lesson. You may even get tips on this from students of higher grades. 7) Make brief notes in your notebook of the key points in the lesson you are revising. After revising the lesson, go over the notes you have made. This will aid you to embed the information in your mind. 8) After revising a lesson, do a rough overview of the next day’s lesson. 9) Discuss your problem with your teachers and seek their advice and Duas. http://idealwoman.org/2013/tips-for-effective-studying/

This is a brief collection of a few couplets which portray the love of Allah. They have been taught to us by our illustrious spiritual mentor and guide, Hazrat-e-Aqdas, Maulana Shah Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Sahib (DB). They are to be read particularly when making zikr, after every ten times of, “La Ilaha il Allah” and “Allah, Allah” for men and “La Ilaha il Allah” and “SubhanAllah” for women. These couplets enhance the quality, expression of love, and concentration in zikr. It should be kept in mind they are not zikr and are not necessary. They are merely an aid to zikr, but since their benefit is so great, one should endeavor to learn them and say them in one’s zikr and at other times as well. If a person recites and ponders over the command of Allah, “Fazkurooni Azkurkum” “Remember Me and I will remember you.”, before starting one’s zikr, there will be much more benefit, enjoyment, and concentration in one’s zikr. If a person thinks that when I make zikr, Allah, the Creator, my Creator and the Creator of the universe, the King of kings, the controller of everything is remembering me, and in fact according to a Hadith, Allah boasts about the one who makes zikr. According to another Hadith, the angels surround the person who makes zikr. One may ask why? The angels who are in the heavens come down to earth? The angels who are in the presence of Allah come to witness the zikr of a human? This occurs for various reasons: The angels are astonished that this person is engaged in zikr without even seeing Allah. The angels notice that this person despite of his human need of food, drink, wife, kids etc. he makes time for the zikr of Allah. He gets no apparent material benefit, and yet he still makes zikr. دل میرا ہو جائے اک میدان ہو تو ہی تو ہو تو ہی تو ہو تو ہی تو اور میرے تن میں بجائے آب و گل درد دل ہو درد دل ہو درد دل غیر سے بلکل ہی اٹھ جائے نظر تو ہی تو آئے نظر د یکھو جدھر Dil mera ho jaye aik maidaan-e-hu Tu hi tu ho tu hi tu ho tu hi tu Aure mere tan mein bajaye aab-o-gil Dared-e-dil ho dard-e-dil ho dard-e-dil Ghair se bikul hi uth jaye nazar Tu hi tu aaye nazar dekhun jidhar May my heart become an open field In which there is no one but you and only you And in my body instead of water and sand May I be blessed with the pain of the heart May my sight be lifted from all else Wherever I look, may I only see You. The ardent lover of Allah makes this prayer that his heart be an empty field in which there is nothing and no one, but Allah. Further, he desires that his body be drenched with the pain of Allah’s love. Love is painful but this pain is pleasurable. For example, like that person who is eating something hot and spicy, his mouth is burning, but he is still enjoying and savoring the food. He eats more and more. Likewise, the love of Allah will make a person give up his wrong lifestyle, his sins, to get up for tahajjud, cry is du’as, outwardly this all seems painful but there is great enjoyment in it for the person doing it. Furthermore, his love is so intense that he does not want to see anything or anyone other than Allah, and that he only sees the manifestation of Allah’s existence in His creation wherever he looks. When a person is blessed with the ma’rifat i.e. recognition of Allah and progresses in this, then he only sees the hidden system of Allah at work. الھی دل میں میرے غیر کا اثر نہ رہے سوائے تیرے کسی پر میری نظر نہ رہے تو کر بے خبر ساری خبروں سے مجھکو الھی رہوں ایک خبردار تیرا Ilahi dil mein mere ghair ka asar Na rahe Siwa-e Tere kisi par meri nazar na rahe Tu kar be-khabar saari khabron se mujh ko Ilahi rahoon eik khabardar tera. O Allah Do not let anything other than you affect my heart. May my gaze be on none but You. Make me unaware of all things. O Allah let me be fully aware of You. The lover of Allah wants to be exclusive for Allah and he wants the highest level of Tauheed in him. So he asks Allah that he be affected by Allah alone. For his needs, his heart and mind should go to none but Allah. All he wants to know about is Allah. اللہ اللہ کیسا پیارا نام ہے عاشقوں کا مینا اور جام ہے Allah, Allah kaisa pyara naam hai Aashiqon ka meena aur jam hai Allah, Allah, what a lovely name…! O Allah, what a beloved name You have. In fact the “Aah” (expression of yearning, pain or grief due to physical, social, or emotional stress) of a humble servant of Allah is joined to the end of the name Allah. This “Aah” does not exist in any other name of the false gods. This is solely and exclusively the quality of just the name of Allah. What a splendid and majestic name it truly is. O Allah! Never deprive me of repeatedly taking Your name. A person may be deprived because of sin. It is not because a person doesn’t have time or is too busy to make zikr. In reality, Allah helps the person at a distance due to sin The name of Allah is not so cheap that a person goes on breaking the law of Allah, never feels remorse or regret, doesn’t repent, and is still given the opportunity to take His blessed name and enjoy it also! Firstly, due to sinning, and after being given respite, a person is deprived of the enjoyment and pleasure of zikr, then of other noble acts. Afterwards, he is deprived of even other acts of worship which may carry over into sunnahs, waajibaat, and even faraaidh. If even after all this, a person still does not make Taubah, his Iman may be in danger. O Allah! Protect us from sins and give us the taufeeq to make your zikr. Aameen! اپنے ملنے کاپتہ کوئی نشاں تو بتادے مجھکو اے رب جہاں Apne milne ka pata koi nishaan, tu bata de mujhko ay Rabb-e-Jahaan. Tell me your address, show me some sign to meet You, O Sustainer of the universe. The lover of Allah wants to always go closer to Allah and therefore always asks for more ma’rifat. The physical, literal meaning is obviously not intended here because that will be kufr. Allah doesn’t have a real address. The love is admitting that I have not gained enough of Your recognition, so grant me more. کوئی تجھ سے کچھ کوئی کچھ چاہتا ہے الھی میں تجھ سے طلبگار تیرا Koi tujh se kuch koi kuch chahta hai, Ilahi mein tujhse talabgaar tera. Some ask You for something and others for something else. My Lord, I only seek from You Yourself. Seldom do people ask of Allah by means of du’a, and when they do, they ask for things of this dunya. Then others ask for things of aakhirat. The true and real ardent lovers of Allah only desire Allah and His pleasure. The dunya has no value in their eyes nor does Jannat. What value would Jannat have without Allah! It is for this reason that the Ahlullah ask Allah for Himself. ہر تمنا دل سے رخصت ہو گئی اب تو آجا اب تو خلوت ہو گئی Har tammanna dil se rukhsat ho gayi, ab to aaja ab to khalwat ho gayi. My heart has bid farewell to all hopes and wishes. Now please come, now I have achieved solitude. This is alluding to the notion that the heart is where Allah manifests His manifestations. When the heart of a mu’min is occupied with other things like hopes and desires, then Allah will not enter that heart. Allah is King of all kings. He requires a clean and pure heart to settle in. When we, as mere humans would feel offended when people do not honor us, then Allah has more ghairat than all of us. Therefore, clean your heart and mind of everything, and then make zikr and you yourself will see the outcome. Source

One day, a brilliantly beautiful and fragrant flower with attractive colors met a pearl that lives far in the bottom of the sea and has none of these characteristics. Both got acquainted with each other. The flower said: "Our family is large; roses and daisies are members of the family. And there are many other species that are various and countless; each has a distinctive scent, appearance etc." Suddenly, a tinge of distress appeared on the flower. "Nothing accounts for sorrow in your talk; so why are depressed?" The pearl asked. "Human beings deal with us carelessly; they slight us. They don't grow us for our sake but to get pleasure from our fragrance and beautiful appearance. They throw us on the street or in the garbage can after we are dispossessed of the most valuable properties; brilliance and fragrance." The flower sighed. And then the flower said to the pearl: "Speak to me about your life! How do you live? How do you feel it? You are buried in the bottom of the sea." The pearl answered: "Although I have none of your distinctive colors and sweet scents, humans think I am precious. They do the impossible to procure me. They go on long journeys, dive deep in the seas searching for me. You might be astounded to know that the further I lay, the more beautiful and brilliant I become. That's what upraises my value in their thought. I live in a thick shell isolated in the dark seas. However, I'm happy and proud to be in a safe zone far from wanton and mischievous hands and still the humans consider me highly valuable." Do you know what the flower and the pearl symbolize? Think, Think, Think... You will find that: The flower is the unveiled woman (who shows her charms) and the pearl is the veiled woman (who conceals her beauties).