ummtaalib

Mahram & Ghayr Mahram relations Composed by Maulana Sultan, UK Introduction Allah Ta’aala has given us a religion called Islam. Not just as a religion, but also as a complete way of life. A system of life which tackles and provides solutions for every immoral aspect of life and sets boundaries so that mankind does not exceed nor fall below the levels required to live a healthy, balanced and pure life and above all, a life in obedience to Allah. One of the aspects of life covered in Islam is the interacting of males and females. As mentioned above, this aspect of life also has boundaries set in place. With certain things in life, there must be boundaries so that we can know the extent of what we can and cannot do since we are not wild and reckless but rather, civilised people. Also so that we know how far we can go in a matter before problems occur. Definition & Of Mahram & Ghayr Mahram With regards to the interacting of males and females, the males are classed into two groups. ‘Mahrams’ and ‘Ghayr Mahrams’ ‘Mahrams’: This category refers to all those males whom a woman cannot marry at anytime in her life whatsoever. In other word a male who is forbidden permanently, forever (i.e. one’s father, brother or son etc). ‘Ghayr Mahrams’: This category refers to all those males whom a woman is permitted to marry (e.g. a cousin or just a random Muslim male) or a male whom it is forbidden to marry at that moment in time but may become permissible to marry in the future due to a change in circumstances. In other word a male who is temporarily forbidden (e.g. a Muslim female who is already married is temporarily forbidden to marry another Muslim male as long as she is married. But once she divorces her current husband and passes her ‘Iddah’ (waiting period after divorce), she may now marry another Muslim male and he is no longer forbidden for her). Importance Of Mahram & Ghayr Mahram Often, in Islamic law, the above categories are required to establish certain Islamic rules. This is why one will find that the above categories are sometimes conditions, requirements or the basis of several Islamic laws. Example 1: Regards the Islamic topic on marriage, the above categories i.e. being a ‘Mahram’ or ‘Ghayr Mahram’ define who a person can and cannot marry. Example 2: Likewise regards the Islamic topic on ‘Hijaab’ and whom a woman must cover herself a certain amount in front of, again will be determined by whether the male is a ‘Mahram’ or not. Example 3: Also, with regards to the permissibility of women travelling more than the distance of a ‘Shar’ee safar’ (Islamic journey approximately 48 miles from one’s city’s border) depends on whether she can find a ‘Mahram’ to accompany her or not. If found then her travelling that distance or more is permissible otherwise not. Example 4: Similarly one of the main conditions, which make ‘Hajj’ compulsory for a woman, is the presence of a ‘Mahram’ with her throughout her journey. Again, if she does not find a ‘Mahram’ to accompany her during her journey to do ‘Hajj’, then she is not permitted to go do ‘Hajj’ nor is it compulsory upon her until she finds a ‘Mahram’ that can accompany her. As it is obvious from the above examples, the knowledge of the term ‘Mahram’ and ‘Ghayr Mahram’ are very important, as they are the conditions or the basis of several Islamic rules as shown above, hence all the more reason to know and understand who is a ‘Mahram’ and who is not. Overall Purpose of Mahram & Ghayr Mahram As mentioned above, the terms ‘Mahram’ and ‘Ghayr Mahram’ play an important role within Islam under different Islamic topics but regardless of this its purposes within these different topics are similar. In other words the purposes of this separation of ‘Mahrams’ and ‘Ghayr Mahrams’ whether it be during matters of ‘Hijaab’, an Islamic journey, marriage or even ‘Hajj’, are similar. There are many purposes and wisdom behind this separation, a few of which will be mentioned. Firstly, one of the main purposes of this separation is to safeguard people from immoral acts that occur because of unnecessary interacting and intermingling of certain males and females. Allah the All-knowing, the Most wise, knows the causes of corruption and shameless acts and helps people safeguard themselves from these by setting rules in place. Society struggles to deal with corruption, immoral acts and problems such as arguments, affairs, trust between husband and wife, attacks on women and so on. Whereas Islam tackles these problems from their root i.e. unnecessary interacting and intermingling of certain males and females, which without doubt is the cause of many problems in society. For example, many arguments are caused through unnecessary interacting and intermingling of certain males and females. Likewise affairs occur due to unnecessary interacting and intermingling of certain males and females. Also, often a lack of trust between husband and wife is created because of things that happen during unnecessary interacting and intermingling of certain males and females. Then later on, a lack of trust leads to arguments. Similarly, attacks that are carried out on women are mostly brought about through unnecessary interacting and intermingling with males. People constantly search themselves for a way or system that they think will solve these problems and fail to follow the system given by Allah that actually deals with these problems since he is All-knowing, Most wise. Another purpose and wisdom behind separating ‘Mahrams’ and ‘Ghayr Mahrams’ is that it protects the honour and chastity of women. Through unnecessary interacting or intermingling of women and men, if a woman falls prey to corruption and commits a shameless act, then this will be the cause of her losing her real honour and chastity. In this modern day and age, society wishes to grant women freedom, honour and rank but fail to realise that real honour is not achieved by granting women freedom but rather by protecting them from the corruption and shameless acts of life, which Islam does, if followed. Even women themselves have fallen for this false idea of honour and try to fight for more freedom and rights, thinking that this will give them honour and rank. Islam is often criticized for its degrading and lack of honour of women, but as shown above, this could not be any further from the truth. Women want honour and rank and it is what Allah wants for them also but their idea of how to achieve it is different from that of Allah’s. If women wish for honour and rank, then remember that honour lies in the obedience of the laws of Allah, who himself is the one who gives honour. “…and you (Allah) grant honour to whom you will and you disgrace whom you will.” (Surah: 3 Al-Imraan, Verse: 26) Lastly, another wisdom behind this separation is that it serves as a boundary to maintain a balanced and pure society and religious life, which in turn will help a person focus on his or her sole purpose in life i.e. the obedience and worship of Allah. Wherever the unnecessary interacting and intermingling of genders is found, then one will clearly see that without doubt, this is something that diverts a person’s attention from the purpose of life and the fulfilment of one’s Islamic duties as well as from the remembrance of Allah. Hence, by creating these restrictions, Allah aims to help us focus on the reality of life and bring this to our attention. Once a person understands this then these restrictions no longer seem like restrictions but rather a mercy from Allah. Will One Then Not Take Heed? Allah the All-knowing, the Most wise, out of his mercy has given us these laws to follow only for our benefit and success and so that we do not stray from the straight path and fall into corruption as people before us have done. Should we then not be truly grateful? If so, then we should show our gratitude through our actions by obeying Allah. Whether we take heed and become obedient to him by following the laws set by him or not, Allah will not be affected the slightest. He does not need nor depend on our obedience nor does he benefit from it. The only ones who will benefit will be ourselves with success in this world and the hereafter…if only we knew. “Indeed, this is no less than a reminder to mankind, for whomsoever wishes to walk straight.” (Surah: 81 At-Takweer, Verse: 27-28) Who is more merciful to mankind than one who continues to help those who are obedient to him as well as those who are disobedient to him but gains nothing from it? List Of Mahrams & Ghayr Mahrams From a male’s perspective: Mahrams: [Women he is permanently forbidden to marry Mahrams and with whom Islamic restrictions do not apply are]: Father’s wives Mothers and above (i.e. grandmothers, great grandmothers etc, maternal or paternal) Daughters and below (i.e. granddaughters, great granddaughters etc) Sisters (regardless of whether it be one’s real sister, sister with whom your mothers are the same but fathers different or whether it be a sister with whom your fathers are the same but mothers different) Aunts (i.e. one’s mother’s/father’s sister, again regardless of whether it be their real sister, sister with whom their mothers are the same but fathers different or whether it be their sister with whom their fathers are the same but mothers different) Nieces (i.e. daughters of brother/sister regardless of whether they be one’s real brother/sister, brother/sister with whom your mothers are the same but fathers different or brother/sister with whom your fathers are the same but mothers different) Foster Mother (i.e. lady by whom one was breast fed before the age of two) Foster Sister (i.e. a female who was breast fed by the same lady as one was) Mother-in-law and above (i.e. grandmother-in-law, great grandmother-in-law etc, maternal or paternal) Daughter of wife from another marriage (with the condition that both husband and wife have been alone together) Daughter-in-law and below (i.e. son’s wife, grandson’s wife etc) Wife (not forbidden in marriage but is an exception therefore no restrictions apply with one’s wife) Ghayr Mahrams: [From a male’s perspective, women he is permitted to marry or who are temporarily forbidden and with whom Islamic restrictions apply are]: These include all those not listed above (The list above and below is a summary of Surah: 4 An-Nisaa, Verse: 22-23 & Surah: 24 An-Noor, Verse: 31) Please note that regards to one’s foster mother, there is a narration of the Prophet, which mentions that whoever is made forbidden through genealogical relation is forbidden through fosterage. In simple terms, one’s foster mother is like one’s mother and her children become one’s foster brothers and sisters and her father becomes one’s foster grandfather and similarly all those types of people normally forbidden are also forbidden in fosterage (i.e. foster father/mother, foster brother/sister, foster uncle/aunt, foster daughter/son etc) Please note there are a few more detailed rules regards the above and below but have not been mentioned in an attempt to keep this article simple. Where detail has been given, then it is in order to answer common and important queries. From a female’s perspective: Men she is permanently forbidden to marry are the opposite of the above since if marriage is forbidden, then it is forbidden both ways i.e. if a female is forbidden for a certain man then that man is forbidden for her also. You can never say that a certain female is forbidden for me but I am not forbidden for her! Also, those with whom Islamic restrictions do not apply are: Mahrams (i.e. forbidden to marry permanently forever at anytime): Step father (with the condition that both step father and one’s mother have been alone together) Fathers and above (i.e. grandfathers, great grandfathers etc, maternal or paternal) Sons and below (i.e. grandsons, great grandsons etc) Brothers (regardless of whether it be one’s real brother, brother with whom your mothers are the same but fathers different or whether it be a brother with whom your fathers are the same but mothers different) Uncles (i.e. one’s mother’s/father’s brother, again regardless of whether it be their real brother, brother with whom their mothers are the same but fathers different or whether it be their brother with whom their fathers are the same but mothers different) Nephews (i.e. sons of brother/sister regardless of whether they be one’s real brother/sister, brother/sister with whom your mothers are the same but fathers different or brother/sister with whom your fathers are the same but mothers different Foster son (i.e. a boy who a lady has breast fed before the age of two) Foster Brother (i.e. a male who was breast fed by the same lady as one was) Father-in-law and above (i.e. grandfather-in-law, great grandfather-in-law etc, maternal or paternal) Husband’s sons Son-in-law and below (i.e. daughter’s husband, granddaughter’s husband etc Husband (not forbidden in marriage but as an exception is classified as a ‘Mahram’ and therefore no restrictions apply with one’s husband) From a female’s perspective, men she is permitted to marry or who are temporarily forbidden and are those with whom Islamic restrictions apply Ghayr Mahrams (i.e. permitted to marry or temporarily forbidden): These include all those not listed above. [Note: Temporarily forbidden in marraige are- -All the married women. -Combining in marriage at the same time a woman with her sister or her paternal aunt or her maternal aunt or the maternal aunt of her father or the maternal aunt of her mother, or the paternal aunt of her father, or the paternal aunt of her mother is forbidden.] http://theislamicreality.blogspot.co.uk/2013/01/mahram-ghayr-mahram-relations.html

Belief in Taqdeer is a principle article of the Islamic faith. This is often a misunderstood concept giving rise to many unanswered questions such as: a) If destiny has already decreed the final abode of a person then to what avail are his deeds or his supplications to Allah? b) Many narrations refer to certain actions as a cause of increase in ones wealth, lifespan and also a means of averting calamities. For example Thawban reports that the Messenger of Allah said, “Verily a man is deprived of a provision (that was written for him) because of a sin that he commits; only supplication changes destiny; and only righteousness can increase the life span.” (Nasai, Ibn Majah) How may this be when everything has been preordained through destiny? I shall attempt to explain the concept of Taqdeer in a simple and categorical manner. Firstly, the purpose of mankind’s creation is that we worship Allah the Almighty and we show obedience to Him. Allah states in the Holy Qur’an, “I created the Jinn and humankind only that they might worship me.” (51:56) Secondly, this world serves as a test of our obedience towards our creator and so that He may reward us in the next world accordingly. Allah states in the Holy Qur’an, “Verily we created man from a drop of mingled sperm, in order to try him: so we gave him (the gifts), of hearing and sight. We showed him the way: whether he be grateful or ungrateful (rests on his will).” (76:2-3) Thirdly, the notion that this world is a test warrants that the subjects being tested possess free-will or else there would be no meaning to such a test. With the above in mind the concept of destiny may further be explained by understanding destiny to be Allah’s knowledge of how the individual is going to use his free-will rather than a pre-decided factor being enforced upon him without giving him a fair chance. Consider the following example: An appointment is arranged between two individuals. The first arrives before time and waits for the second; he then comments that the second will arrive late as always. He bases his prediction on previous experience and the lax nature of the second individual. This statement does not restrict or bound the latter’s ability to attend on time in any way, it is merely an assertion. Similarly, when Allah the Almighty informs us, through his infinite knowledge, of his knowledge of our precise actions and our consequent abode it should not be perceived to be a compelling decision against our free will, but rather only his knowledge of our decisions. To summarise, every individual has been given free-will and should use it to work towards attaining the pleasure of Allah and that Allah has full knowledge of the individual’s actions; past, present and future. With regards to the second misconception, the possibility of increase in ones wealth, lifespan and aversion of calamities despite destiny being pre-ordained, Allah says, “Allah blots out what he wills and conforms (what he wills): and with Him is the mother of the book (i.e. book of conclusive records).” ( 13:39) Commenting on the above verse Mujahid said, “During Laylatul-Qadr (night of the Decrees), Allah decided what provisions and disasters will occur in the next year. He then brings forward or back (or blots out) whatever He wills.” (Ibn Katheer) Scholars derive from the above that destiny is of two types: a) Muallaq (revocable): This destiny is written on ‘The Preserved Tablet’ (al Lawh al Mahfoodh), and is subject to change and alteration through the omission or commission of certain deeds. For example: the lifespan of a person is originally 50 years, but may increase to 60 years if he performs the ritual of Hajj, or a certain calamity is to befall him unless he averts it by spending in charity. This is the destiny refereed to in the aforementioned narration. b) Mubram (irrevocable): This destiny denotes the eternal knowledge of Allah. It encompasses the final result of the Muallaq destiny i.e. our choice of actions, their consequences and every precise detail of our lives. This definite knowledge of Allah is not subject to change or alter even slightly and is exclusive to Allah only. In the light of the above the following may be derived: Our supplications do change destiny and are of much avail. Good deeds are a source of increase in ones sustenance, and avert calamities. Sins result in a decrease in ones sustenance, and invite calamities http://www.inter-islam.org/faith/taqdeer.htm

Question: Is it permissible to buy gifts for kids because its Christmas? Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ʿalaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. As Muslims, we are sensitive to our belief of pure tawḥīd (Oneness of Allah Taʿālā). This requires us to also completely disassociate ourselves from all practices related to Christianity. Christmas is celebrated by Christians. Exchanging gifts during Christmas is an expression of reverence for Christmas and Christianity. As Muslims it is prohibited for us to revere Christians or any other religion besides Islām. In fact there is a strong fear of kufr in doing so.[1] As a Muslim parent, it is equally important to preserve your Īmān as well as the Īmān of your children. Inculcate in them the importance of tawḥīd and aversion from kufr and its related practices. This attitude will keep them firm on Īmān and hate kufr. If children are accustomed to receiving gifts from their parents on Christmas day, they would grow up finding it difficult to understand the gravity of imitating non-Muslims. Such an attitude will be detrimental to their Īmān as the practice of imitating Christianity borders on kufr. It is not permissible for you to offer gifts to your children during Christmas.[2] And Allah Ta’ālā Knows Best, Checked and Approved by Mufti Ebrahim Desai. http://idealwoman.org/2012/giving-gifts-on-christmas-day/

Q: I continuously get a discharge (from yellow to white) after haidh. What must I do if I feel the discharge during Salaah? Should a break the Salaah and renew my wuduh? How much liquid has to be discharged in order for the wuduh to be broken? What is the minimum time that one can be considered a ma’zurah? A: Every discharge, regardless of the amount, when it comes out invalidates the wudhu. A person will become a ma’zoor if the entire namaaz time passes in such a condition that he is unable to perform the Salaah with the uzr (i.e. the factor which breaks wudhu) (e.g. the coming out of discharge) not being found. ( وينقضه خروج ) كل خارج ( نجس ) بالفتح ويكسر ( منه ) أي من المتوضىء الحي معتادا أو لا من السبيلين أو لا ( إلى ما يطهر ) بالبناء للمفعول أي يلحقه حكم التطهير (الدر المختار 1/134) الباب الثالث في شروط الصلاة وهي عندنا سبعة الطهارة من الأحداث … الخ (الفتاوى الهندية 1/58) والمستحاضة ومن به سلس البول والرعاف الدائم والجرح الذي لا يرقأ يتوضئون لوقت كل صلاة فيصلون بذلك الوضوء في الوقت ما شاءوا من الفرائض والنوافل وقال الشافعي رحمه الله تتوضأ المستحاضة لكل مكتوبة لقوله عليه الصلاة والسلام المستحاضة تتوضأ لكل صلاة ولأن اعتبار طهارتها ضرورة أداء المكتوبة فلا تبقى بعد الفراغ منها(الهداية 1/67) Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach) http://islamqa.org/hanafi/muftionline/46005

by Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (rahmatullahi alayh) The main reason for being unable to solve the many problems the Muslim community is facing presently is that we are misdirecting our energies by ‘watering leaves’, when in actual fact, the ‘root’ is in dire need of water. …We are not getting to the root of the problem, since we are too pre-occupied in watering the leaves of our problems. Take the example of Zina (adultery and fornication) which is the scourge of our society : The consequences are illegitimate children, abortions and various physical and deathly diseases. It is common knowledge that many physical ailments today point to immoral, unrestrained behaviour as the cause. Having moved away from the nasihah (advice) of Qur`aan Shareef and Sunnah, and drawing from the manner in which the non-Muslims try to remedy their problems, many will suggest that a home be built for illegitimate and abandoned children, that more awareness be instilled in the youth on Aids and other transmitted diseases, and more programmes be held, encouraging the youth and others to take more precaution. As we all know, drugs are another major problem amongst our youth. Our attention to remedying the situation is the building of rehabilitation centres. Whilst these efforts offer some benefit, these are, in reality, short term measures and are not solutions to the problems. …Because we have adopted the Western way of thinking, we consider these the solutions. The root cause is the heart. Change the condition of the heart and automatically sins will be given up. If the spiritual heart is in good condition, the actions will be good. If the heart is not in good condition, the actions will be bad. The person will suffer due to his own evil and mischief, and others will also suffer as a result. The supreme qualities of the heart are Imaan and Taqwa, and this is what is lacking in most people. Shariah has laid tremendous emphasis on the purification of the heart. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) lived amongst a people who were immersed in sins, including sins such as adultery, liquor and gambling. His approach and method in eradicating those major problems in that society was creating the love of Allah Ta’ala, the khauf (fear) of Qiyaamah and accountability, and the awareness that Allah Ta’ala is watching every deed: A person can hide and conceal his sins from people but there is Someone who is always watching from above. Allah Ta’ala says in the Qur`aan Shareef : “Verily your Lord is Ever – Watchful (over them).” [surah Al-Fajr 89 : 14] “…And He is with you wheresoever you may be. And Allah sees well all that you do.” [surah Hadeed 57 : 4 ] In this manner, so many problems are solved in one capsule – The capsule of the Love and Fear of Allah Ta’ala. This is the real solution : Change the condition of the heart. Make the heart conscious of Allah Ta’ala. Awaken the spiritual heart. Otherwise funds are being terribly burdened on various projects which are only short term measures and not the solution. The purpose of the Qur`aan Shareef is to learn it, understand it and practice upon its teachings. It is the Qur`aan Shareef that works on the heart : If the person keeps before him the 4 witnesses which will either testify in his favour or against him on the Day of Qiyaamah, he will definitely opt for abstinence from sins. These 4 witnesses are: I. The Earth : “On that Day will she (the earth) declare her tidings.” [surah Zilzaal 99 :4] II. The Angels, Kiramaan Kaatibeen, who take note of all our actions : “But verily over you (are appointed angels) to protect you; Kind and honourable, writing down (your deeds). They know (and understand) all that you do.” [surah Infitaar 82 : 10 / 11 / 12] III. One’s Book of Deeds : “And the Book (of Deeds) will be placed (before you); And you will see the sinful in great terror because of what is (recorded) therein ; They will say : ‘Ah! Woe to us! What a book is this ! It leaves out nothing. Small or great, but takes account thereof!’ They will find all that they did, placed before them : And not one will your Lord treat with injustice.” [surah Kahf 18 : 49] IV. One’s Body : “That Day shall We set a seal on their mouths. But their hands will speak to Us, and their feet bear witness, to all that they did.” [surah Yaaseen 36 :65] If the root of Imaan, which is in the heart, is watered, then the tree of Imaan will bear the fruit of obedience. The above is the solution to all our problems.

“If this world were to be filled with thorns, the hearts of the lovers of Allah will still be flowery gardens”.... Rumi

very beneficial!

Q. When talaaq is given whilst in the state of menstration, how long is the iddat period and in normal situations how long would one have to sit indoors. (Query published as received) A. Talaaq during menstruation is valid and effective. The Iddah of Talaaq for a female who is menstruating is three complete menstrual cycles. If Talaaq was issued during menstruation, the period in which the wife received the Talaaq will not be counted. She has to count three complete menstrual cycles thereafter. And Allah Knows Best Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Do not delve too deep in the subject of Taqdeer By Mufti Shafiq Jakhura Q.My question is regarding taqdeer (fate): if Allah has written the taqdeer for every individual, then why does He punish accordingly, since it is He that has prescribed this . For example the uncle of the Prophet , (Abu Talib) was not able to accept Islam as Allah did not appoint him with hidayat (guidance). If that was the way Allah had prescribed his life, then why should he be punished? A. The subject of taqdeer is one that is very delicate and intricate. Delving too deep into this subject is discouraged and has caused many to go astray. However, in order to clarify your concern one should understand that Taqdeer does not refer to the command of Allah. Allah has not forced nor commanded any person to commit wrong. Rather it refers to the knowledge of Allah. Allah has blessed every person with the ability to choose between right and wrong. One does right or wrong of his/her own prerogative. Hence, if a person does evil or commits a sin, he does not do so because he was forced into it. Rather, he does so out of his own choice. Yes, Allah out of His infinite knowledge knew that this person would choose the wrong path. Perhaps a simple example would assist in understanding this concept further. If a newspaper announces that the head of State is to travel to South Africa, and thereafter he does indeed travel, he does so out of his own choice and not because the newspaper had knowledge thereof or had announced his plans. Nevertheless, my sincere advice is that you do not delve too deep into this subject and accept the concept as mentioned above. Remember, every person has a choice. No person is forced to do good or evil. And Allah Ta'ala Knows Best http://www.albalagh.net/qa/0123.shtml

How do families react when a loved one converts to Islam? Rageh Omaar looks at four real-life stories 1. Yvonne Ridley Yvonne was the journalist captured by the Taliban while reporting undercover in Afghanistan, soon after 9/11. Held on spying charges, she feared she would be stoned. Instead, she was treated with respect. She promised her captors that, after her release, she would study Islam. She read the Qur'an looking for an explanation of the Taliban's treatment of women, only to find there wasn't any: "It's a magna carta for women!" She converted in 2003 and has found that her new faith has helped put behind her three broken marriages and a reputation as the "Patsy Stone of Fleet Street." But she still can't persuade her Mum that converting was a good idea. 2. John Standing John used to try to talk his Muslim girlfriend, Nasera, out of her faith. It was only when she stood firm that he decided to read the Qur'an for himself. Within months, he'd converted to Islam. His father, Tony, admits that John seems a calmer, kinder person since his conversion, but can't help worrying that John's been brainwashed. He's warned him that, if he gets involved in violent extremism, the family will disown him... Not that they expect him to. What his father can't understand is why John feels the need to change his name to Jamal Udeen; why he's abandoned a promising musical career (John believes Islam forbids music); and why he's now talking about emigrating to a Muslim country. Does Islam really demand all those changes? 3. Aqeel Burton Aqeel was brought up in Manchester by Jamaican Christian parents, but rejected his parents' faith because it seemed to him a white person's religion. Not that Islam seemed any less exclusive. The only Muslims he knew at school were Asians. It was only when a Jamaican friend converted that Aqeel became interested in the faith. He read the Qur'an and found that whereas in the past his head had been full of questions, in Islam he found answers. A former professional boxer, Aqeel no longer fights, because of his new faith, but he still trains and finds that the discipline of boxing goes hand-in-glove with the demands of his new faith. 4. Shahnaaz Malik Shahnaaz grew up in a white family in Slough and converted to Islam when she married her Asian boyfriend, Naseer. Back then, he wasn't even a practising Muslim, but over the last six years, she has brought him back to the faith. First, she started wearing a headscarf or hijab. Then, this year, without any prompting from Naseer, she started wearing the full burkha veil. "Ninjas, we call them," says Nas, a little bemused. Not that Shahnaaz is discouraged. She feels liberated from "the beauty contest" that, she says, dominates western culture. Interestingly, her veil provokes abuse from both Asian and white people. All four of the converts have found different ways to reconcile their old lives with the new. However, the fact that all four of them are determined to reconcile the "before" and "after" versions of themselves is a very hopeful sign. Perhaps, in them, we can see a living bridge between Islam and the West - two cultures that many see as being on an inexorable collision course.

They are the framework of the Muslim life: faith, prayer, concern for the needy, self-purification, and the pilgrimage to Makkah for those who are able. First Pillar: Faith لآ اِلَهَ اِلّا اللّهُ مُحَمَّدٌ رَسُوُل اللّهِ There is no god worthy of worship except Allah and Muhammad is His messenger. This declaration of faith is called the Shahada, a simple formula which all the faithful pronounce. In Arabic, the first part is la ilaha illa'Llah - 'there is no god except God'; ilaha (god) can refer to anything which we may be tempted to put in place of God--wealth, power, and the like. Then comes illa'Llah: 'except God', the source of all Creation. The second part of the Shahada is Muhammadun rasulu'Llah: 'Muhammad is the messenger of God.' A message of guidance has come through a man like ourselves. Second Pillar: Prayer Salat is the name for the obligatory prayers which are performed five times a day, and are a direct link between the worshipper and God. There is no hierarchical authority in Islam, and no priests, so the prayers are led by a learned person who knows the Quran, chosen by the congregation. These five prayers contain verses from the Quran, and are said in Arabic, the language of the Revelation, but personal supplication can be offered in one's own language. Prayers are said at dawn, noon, mid-afternoon, sunset and nightfall, and thus determine the rhythm of the entire day. Although it is preferable to worship together in a mosque, a Muslim may pray almost anywhere, such as in fields, offices, factories and universities. Visitors to the Muslim world are struck by the centrality of prayers in daily life. A translation of the Call to Prayer is: 'God is most great. God is most great. God is most great. God is most great. I testify that there is no god except God. I testify that there is no god except God. I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of God. I testify that Muhammad is the messenger of God. Come to prayer! Come to prayer! Come to success (in this life and the Hereafter)! Come to success! God is most great. God is most great. There is no god except God.' Once Muslims prayed towards Jerusalem, but during the Prophet's lifetime it was changed to Makkah. From the minbar, the pulpit, the Imam who leads the prayer gives the sermon at the Friday noon community prayers. Third Pillar: Zakat One of the most important principles of Islam is that all things belong to God, and that wealth is therefore held by human beings in trust. The word zakat means both 'purification' and 'growth'. Our possessions are purified by setting aside a proportion for those in need, and, like the pruning of plants, this cutting back balances and encourages new growth. Each Muslim calculates his or her own zakat individually. For most purposes this involves the payment each year of 2.5% two and a half percent of one's capital. A pious person may also give as much as he or she pleases as sadaqa, and does so preferably in secret. Although this word can be translated as 'voluntary charity' it has a wider meaning. The Prophet (SAW) said: 'Even meeting your brother with a cheerful face is charity.' TheProphet (SAW) said: 'Charity is a necessity for every Muslim.' He was asked: 'What if a person has nothing?' TheProphet (SAW) replied: 'He should work with his own hands for his benefit and then give something out of such earnings in charity.' The Companions asked: 'What if he is not able to work?' The Prophet (SAW) said: 'He should help poor and needy persons.' The Companions further asked 'What if he cannot do even that?' The Prophet (SAW) said 'He should urge others to do good.' The Companions said 'What if he lacks that also?' The Prophet (SAW) said 'He should check himself from doing evil. That is also charity.' Fourth Pillar: The Fast Every year in the month of Ramadan, all Muslims fast from first light until sundown, abstaining from food, drink, and sexual relations. Those who are sick, elderly, or on a joumey, and women who are pregnant or nursing are permitted to break the fast and make up an equal number of days later in the year. If they are physically unable to do this, they must feed a needy person for every day missed. Children begin to fast (and to observe the prayer) from puberty, although many start earlier. Although the fast is most beneficial to the health, it is regarded principally as a method of self purification. By cutting oneself off from worldly comforts, even for a short time, a fasting person gains true sympathy with those who go hungry as well as growth in one's spiritual life. Fifth Pillar: The Pilgrimage (Hajj) The annual pilgrimage to Makkah, the Hajj, is an obligation only for those who are physically and financially able to perform it. Nevertheless, about two million people go to Makkah each year from every comer of the globe providing a unique opportunity for those of different nations to meet one another. Although Makkah is always filled with visitors, the annual Hajj begins in the twelfth month of the Islamic year (which is lunar, not solar, so that Hajj and Ramadan fall sometimes in summer, sometimes in winter). Pilgrims wear special clothes: simple garments which strip away distinctions of class and culture, so that all stand equal before God. The rites of the Hajj, which are of Abrahamic origin, include circling the Ka'ba seven times, and going seven times between the mountains of Safa and Marwa as did Hagar during her search for water. Then the pilgrims stand together on the wide plain of Arafa and join in prayers for God's forgiveness, in what is often thought of as a preview of the Last Judgement. In previous centuries the Hajj was an arduous undertaking. Today, however, Saudi Arabia provides millions of people with water, modem transport, and the most up-to-date health facilities. The close of the Hajj is marked by a festival, the Eid al-Adha, which is celebrated with prayers and the exchange of gifts in Muslim communities everywhere. This, and the Eid al-Fitr, a feast-day commemorating the end of Ramadan, are the main festivals of the Muslim calendar. http://www.muftisays.com/forums/65-the-5-pillars-of-islam/4775-what-are-the-five-pillars-of-islam--briefly-explained.html

By Shaykh (Mufti) Taqi Usmani (HA) Q "What is the procedure for a Christian to convert to Islam in order to marry a Sunni Muslim girl?" A- It is not a correct practice to embrace Islam for the sake of marrying a Muslim girl only. Islam is a composition of certain beliefs and acts. It is a way of life. It is a matter of faith and conviction. In order to become a Muslim, it is necessary to accept all its basic teachings with one's heart and soul. If one's real purpose is only to marry a Muslim girl, and he wants to register himself as a Muslim only because he cannot marry that girl without it, while he does not have faith in the basic beliefs of Islam, he cannot be a Muslim in reality. Therefore, one should know at the first instance that conversion to Islam is not meant for marrying Muslim girls. One should, first, study the basic Islamic beliefs and teachings, and if he is convinced that they are worth accepting, he should accept Islam for its inherent rightfulness and its intrinsic merits, and not only because he wants to marry a girl. Now, the basic beliefs one is required to accept while entering into Islam are the following: God is One. He has neither a partner, nor a son or daughter. He is One in the true sense of the word that has no room for the concept of trinity, or for any other form of camouflage monotheism or a disguised polytheism. The Holy Prophet Muhammad, Salla-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, is the last Messenger of Allah after whom no messenger or prophet of Allah (in any sense of the word) will come. The Holy Qur'an is the last of the divine books revealed on the Holy Prophet, Salla-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, and all its contents are true. The life Hereafter is the eternal life one has to live after his death where he will have to face the fate of his good and evil deeds. All the teachings given by the Holy Qur'an or by the Holy Prophet, Salla-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, in absolute and unambiguous terms are true and acceptable. Once a person accepts all these fundamental beliefs as true, both verbally and in his heart, he becomes a Muslim. Conversion to Islam has no particular procedure, like baptism, etc. As soon as a person accepts the aforementioned beliefs with his heart and soul and professes them verbally, he enters the fold of Islam. It is not necessary that he seeks the mediation of a saint or priest, nor is it a prerequisite to go to a mosque or to an institution for accepting Islam. One can accept Islam on his own. However, it is advisable to go to a learned Muslim who can inform him about the basic beliefs of Islam and can teach him the concise and comprehensive words to express his acceptance of those beliefs. Normally following sentences are used for that purpose: "I bear witness that there is no God but Allah, and I bear witness that Muhammad, Salla-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, is His slave and messenger." "I have believed in Allah and His angels and His book (as they were originally revealed on His prophets) and in His messengers and in the Last Day and in the fact that all the good and bad destinies come from Allah and in being raised alive after death." A further requirement for a convert Muslim is to free himself from those beliefs of his former faith or religion which are not in line with the Islamic beliefs. For example, a Christian must proclaim that he does no more believe Jesus Christ as the son of God or a part of Godhood. Instead, he accepts that he was a revered Messenger of Allah, and was no more than a messenger, having all the human attributes. http://www.albalagh.net/qa/q1.shtml

This is a message to the non-Muslims of the world. I wish to echo this message in every building, slum, desert, house, media outlet and corner street. I am not calling you to a race, ideology, or country. Instead, I am calling you to something that has no boundaries in this world. I am calling you all to the eternal light of Islam. It is the same God that Abraham humbled himself to which I am calling all of you. It is the same call that all the Prophets called to: “Worship Allah and reject disbelief”. Verily, there is none worthy of worship except Allah alone and Muhammad is His final Messenger. To Him alone belongs the dominion of the heavens and the earth and there is not a soul that has a share in His Magnificence. He is Allah; He is not in need of anything but everything depends on Him. There is none like Him as He is above everything. If you choose to accept this call, with Allah’s mercy you will taste the beauty of Islam and enjoy life to its maximum even if you were the poorest person under the sky. That’s because you will live Islam in every action of yours and live with the knowledge that Allah has preserved a remarkable gift for you in Paradise. You will find that following the lifestyle of Prophet Muhammad will become your occupation as it will be the coolness of your eyes. Islam will teach you that every ism, including materialism, is a mere creation of Allah and that it will perish. But Allah will never perish. As a Muslim, your life will begin to revolve around the daily prayer which is to be established five times. The prayer is a re-connection from the spiritual avenues of your heart to Allah directly. If performed correctly, you will feel a change in your spiritual station. In our materialistic world of globalization, it’s easy to forget Allah. So the prayer is a chance to repent, mend your ways, build on your weaknesses, cleanse your heart, and dampen your soul in the remembrance of Allah. You will also begin to realize that your wealth is nothing but a test from Allah. The annual zakat requires a Muslim to give 2.5% of their wealth from the previous year’s earnings to charity. Wealth can be both troublesome and a blessing. If abused, every penny will be counted against you on the Day of Judgment. If used for good causes, it will elevate your status in Allah’s eyes. You will also come to the realization that you will have a bank in the hereafter. This bank however has no paper money, coins, or gold. Rather, it is a bank of deeds. If your good deeds outweigh your evil sins, you will and nothing but felicity from Allah. You add to your deeds from this world by doing all sorts of acts of worship prescribed and explained by Islam. The one who rushes to fill his bank of good deeds in this world will be the one who will and ease entering Paradise in the next, by the permission and kindness of Allah. Through Islam you will find a return to your inner self and natural being. Every year in the month of Ramadan, the Muslim is required to fast for a full month. Each day he will fast from dawn to dusk and break his fast with food. Throughout the day, he makes an extra attempt to stay away from all sorts of sins whether it be from the tongue, heart etc. – and he does his best to busy himself in all different types of worship whether it be reading the Qur’an, repeating Allah’s name, visiting the sick, giving to the poor, doing additional prayers, cleaning the mosque, using his time with friends and family to talk on Islamic affairs, spreading Islam to others or even smiling. In the night, he stands up in prayer and recites the beautiful verses of the Qur’an to strengthen hisfaith, conviction, wisdom and character. The hajj is what the Muslim performs once in his lifetime if he has the means. The Muslim travels to Makkah and performs the prescribed acts of worship there. This time is to be spent in changing your habits and lifestyle for the better. Finally, the one who rejects Islam will have to face the consequences of his disbelief on the Day of Judgment. The day where the hair of a child will turn grey and the pregnant woman will drop her load due to the great terror felt on that day. Those who die as practicing Muslims, and not die in a state of sin, will be of those that are the successful. Those who chase after the life of this world will feel its poisonous pangs in the hereafter: a punishing fire that tortures people eternally in the most ferocious of ways. Those who chase after the life of the next will experience pleasures that no eye has ever seen, no ear has ever heard, and no mind has ever thought of: an eternal life of delight and happiness, empty of troubles and difficulties. - By the brother Hazim al Malahim (May Allah protect him) http://idealwoman.org/2012/an-invitation-to-islam/

Question: I wanted to know that do women need to cut 1 inch of all the hairs after performing Umrah or only cutting an inch of a bundle of hair will suffice? My wife has quite small hair. That is why she is worried a lot. Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. When a woman comes out of Ihrām, she should cut her hair from all the strands of her plaits (hanging hair) equivalent to 1/3 of a finger. The 1/3 of the finger is measured as the area from the fingertip till the first joint from the three joints of the finger. This is the preferred method of cutting hair. However, if a woman wishes to cut this amount (1/3 of the finger) from ¼ of the hair strands of her plaits, this is sufficient. This is by dividing her plaits (hanging hair) into four equal portions and cutting one portion the measure of 1/3 of a finger as explained above. [1] Nevertheless, it is better to cut slightly more than this measure to ensure that the required amount is cut. [2] And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Mufti Ebrahim Desai. [1] (ثُمَّ قَصَّرَ) بِأَنْ يَأْخُذَ مِنْ كُلِّ شَعْرِهِ قَدْرَ الْأُنْمُلَةِ وُجُوبًا وَتَقْصِيرُ الْكُلِّ مَنْدُوبٌ وَالرُّبُعُ وَاجِبٌ (الدر المختار، ج 2، ص 515، سعيد) قال ابن عابدين فى حاشيته على الدر: (قَوْلُهُ بِأَنْ يَأْخُذَ إلَخْ) قَالَ فِي الْبَحْرِ: وَالْمُرَادُ بِالتَّقْصِيرِ أَنْ يَأْخُذَ الرَّجُلُ وَالْمَرْأَةُ مِنْ رُءُوسِ شَعْرِ رُبُعِ الرَّأْسِ مِقْدَارَ الْأُنْمُلَةِ كَذَا ذَكَرَهُ الزَّيْلَعِيُّ، وَمُرَادُهُ أَنْ يَأْخُذَ مِنْ كُلِّ شَعْرَةٍ مِقْدَارَ الْأُنْمُلَةِ كَمَا صَرَّحَ بِهِ فِي الْمُحِيطِ. وَفِي الْبَدَائِعِ قَالُوا: يَجِبُ أَنْ يَزِيدَ فِي التَّقْصِيرِ عَلَى قَدْرِ الْأُنْمُلَةِ حَتَّى يَسْتَوْفِيَ قَدْرَ الْأُنْمُلَةِ مِنْ كُلِّ شَعْرَةٍ بِرَأْسِهِ لِأَنَّ أَطْرَافَ الشَّعْرِ غَيْرُ مُتَسَاوِيَةٍ عَادَةً. قَالَ الْحَلَبِيُّ فِي مَنَاسِكِهِ وَهُوَ حَسَنٌ اهـ وَفِي الشُّرُنْبُلَالِيَّةِ: يَظْهَرُ لِي أَنَّ الْمُرَادَ بِكُلِّ شَعْرَةٍ أَيْ مِنْ شَعْرِ الرُّبُعِ عَلَى وَجْهِ اللُّزُومِ وَمِنْ الْكُلِّ عَلَى سَبِيلِ الْأَوْلَوِيَّةِ فَلَا مُخَالَفَةَ فِي الْأَجْزَاءِ لِأَنَّ الرُّبُعَ كَالْكُلِّ كَمَا فِي الْحَلْقِ اهـ فَقَوْلُ الشَّارِحِ مِنْ كُلِّ شَعْرَةٍ أَيْ مِنْ الرُّبُعِ لَا مِنْ الْكُلِّ وَإِلَّا نَاقَضَ مَا بَعْدَهُ، وَقَوْلُهُ: وُجُوبًا قَيْدٌ لِقَدْرِ الْأُنْمُلَةِ فَلَا يَتَكَرَّرُ مَعَ قَوْلِهِ: وَالرُّبُعُ وَاجِبٌ وَالْأُنْمُلَةُ بِفَتْحِ الْهَمْزَةِ وَالْمِيمِ وَضَمِّ الْمِيمِ لُغَةٌ مَشْهُورَةٌ، وَمَنْ خَطَّأَ رَاوِيَهَا فَقَدْ أَخْطَأَ وَاحِدَةُ الْأَنَامِلِ بَحْرٌ. وَفِي تَهْذِيبِ اللُّغَاتِ لِلنَّوَوِيِّ الْأَنَامِلُ أَطْرَافُ الْأَصَابِعِ. وَقَالَ أَبُو عُمَرَ الشَّيْبَانِيُّ والسجستاني وَالْجَرْيُ لِكُلِّ أُصْبُعٍ ثَلَاثُ أُنْمُلَاتٍ (رد المحتار، ج 2، ص 515-516، سعيد) (قَوْلُهُ وَالتَّقْصِيرُ أَنْ يَأْخُذَ الرَّجُلُ أَوْ الْمَرْأَةُ إلَخْ) قَالَ الْكَرْمَانِيُّ – رَحِمَهُ اللَّهُ – ثُمَّ الْحَلْقُ أَوْ التَّقْصِيرُ لَا يَجُوزُ عِنْدَنَا أَقَلُّ مِنْ رُبُعِ الرَّأْسِ كَمَا فِي مَسْحِ الرَّأْسِ فَإِنْ حَلَقَ أَوْ قَصَّرَ أَقَلَّ مِنْ النِّصْفِ أَجْزَأَهُ، وَهُوَ مُسِيءٌ فِي ذَلِكَ؛ لِأَنَّ السُّنَّةَ حَلْقُ جَمِيعِ الرَّأْسِ أَوْ تَقْصِيرُ جَمِيعِ الرَّأْسِ، وَقَدْ تَرَكَ ذَلِكَ فَيَكُونُ مُسِيئًا اهـ ثُمَّ قَالَ الْكَرْمَانِيُّ وَذَكَرَ فِي الْكَافِي وَفِي آدَابِ الْمُفْتِينَ أَنَّ الْمَرْأَةَ لَوْ قَصَّرَتْ مِقْدَارَ الْأُنْمُلَةِ مِنْ أَحَدِ جَانِبَيْ رَأْسِهَا وَذَلِكَ يَبْلُغُ النِّصْفَ أَوْ دُونَهُ أَجْزَأَهَا وَعَلَّلَ فِيهِ وَقَالَ؛ لِأَنَّ حَلْقَ رُبُعِ الرَّأْسِ أَوْ تَقْصِيرَ رُبُعِهِ مِثْلُ حَلْقِ جَمِيعِ الرَّأْسِ فِي وُجُوبِ الدَّمِ فَكَذَا فِي حُصُولِ التَّحَلُّلِ اهـ (قَوْلُهُ الْأُنْمُلَةُ) قَالَ فِي الْمِصْبَاحِ الْأُنْمُلَةُ الْعُقْدَةُ مِنْ الْأَصَابِعِ وَبَعْضُهُمْ يَقُولُ الْأَنَامِلُ رُءُوسُ الْأَصَابِعِ، وَهِيَ بِفَتْحِ الْهَمْزَةِ وَفَتْحِ الْمِيمِ أَكْثَرُ مِنْ ضَمِّهَا وَابْنُ قُتَيْبَةَ يَجْعَلُ الضَّمَّ مِنْ لَحْنِ الْعَوَامّ اهـ وَفِي الْمُغْرِبِ الْأُنْمُلَةُ بِفَتْحِ الْهَمْزَةِ وَالْمِيمِ لُغَةٌ مَشْهُورَةٌ وَمَنْ خَطَّأَ رَاوِيَهَا فَقَدْ أَخْطَأَ. اهـ. (حاشية الشلبى على التبيين، ج 2، ص 32، مكتبه إمدادية) فتاوى محمودية، ج 10، ص 345، فاروقية [2] زبدة المناسك مع عمدة المناسك، ص 196، سعيد معلم الحجاج، ص 203، إدارة القران http://idealwoman.org/2013/what-is-the-minimum-requirement-for-a-female-cutting-hair-after-umrah/

French Rapper Becomes Muslim And Stuns FansThere is already a lot of debate in France about the hijab worn by Muslim women. But fans of a famous rapper have been left amazed after finding out she became a hijab-wearing Muslim. Mélanie Georgiades, known as Diam’s, went through a transformation over the course of several years. And since 2009, she had been unusually absent from the mainstream rap scene, prompting more than three years of controversy over where she was. Diam’s was finally interviewed with French TV station TF1. She talked about her past experience with drugs and even being in an asylum, until she discovered the “serenity of Islam.” It all started when she wanted to pray with her Muslim friend. She recounted, “it was the first time that I touched the floor with head, and I had a strong feeling that I have never experienced before, and I believe now that kneeling in prayer, shouldn’t be done to anyone but Allah.” She then began to learn more about Islam and read the Islamic holy book, the Quran. After becoming more interested in the faith and realising it was the path she wanted to choose, she became a Muslim, leaving her fame and previous lifestyle behind. In her interview, she said her conversion to Islam was “the result of a personal conviction, after understanding the religion and reading the Holy Quran.” She put her fame aside and conquered various hardships in her life. She is now living a happy life, focussing on her spiritual path.

Q. Is it permissible for town people to partake of meals prepared at a funeral house? (Query published as received) A. It is best to abstain from partaking of meals at the funeral home as in many cases, money is used from the estate without prior consent from all the heirs. Furthermore, even if the money is legitimate, the practice of gathering and eating at the funeral home burdens the grieving family. It is from the teachings of Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam) to take food for the grieving family, not to have them provide food for guests. And Allah Knows Best Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

It could have been the splash of red or the over abundance of hearts, the young man in a designer jeans that caught his eye, but Sheikh Hamaad stopped under the bold "Valentine's day Specials" banner, set his shopping basket on the floor and watched the young man battling to select an appropriate gift from the heaps of hearts, teddy bears and chocolates. Like a busy humming bird he flitted from shelf to shelf struggling to choose. Sheikh Hamaad approached him as he stood scratching his head, "Asalaamu Alaikum, young man, seems like you're battling to make a choice." "Eish, Moulana, this is more difficult than I thought. And lucky I only have to choose for two of them," he said, picking up another heart decorated teddy bear, examining the price and putting down with disappointment. "For your sisters?" Sheikh asked, feigning innocence. "Naah, just friends, you know how it is. You have to do these things" came the prompt reply. Sheikh Hamaad remained silent and fixed his gentle gaze on the young man, something more than the loud Billabong T-shirt and hipster jeans told him that this young man had more than a spark of intelligence. "Tell me, how many Valentine's gifts do your sisters receive?" "Hey, hey .... Moulana my sisters are not like that. They don't do this boyfriend thing. My sisters .... they are pure," exclaimed the young man an angry frown crossing his face. "Just let the guy try and send my sister's one flower and I will make him eat it. You don't know me!" "Oh," said Sheikh Hamaad without any apology, "And your mother, how many Valentine's gifts does she get?" The young man took a step back and glared at Sheikh Hamaad, "La Hawla Wala Quwwata Illa Billah" his words swallowed by his anger, "how can you even say such things about my mother? My mother, she doesn't do this stuff. She is like an angel. She is pure. How can you say this?" Sheikh paused, waiting for the silence to absorb the boy's anger, then said, tauntingly, "So they don't receive any Valentine's gifts or have boyfriend's at all." "I told you, Moulana, my family is pure and they don't do this junk stuff." Knowing the moment was right Sheikh but forward his reasoning, "So you really don't like your sisters receiving these gifts or having boyfriends." "No ways," came the emphatic reply, "not on my life." "Then don't you think," Sheikh ventured, "that other people would also not like their sisters, mothers or aunts to receive such gifts. Just as you would like your sisters to remain pure, they would also like their sisters to be pure?" The young man dropped his head and shifted his feet nervously, "You have a point, Moulana. Didn't ever think of it like that. I don't want to say ... but you are right. I shouldn't be polluting other people's family if I don't like my family to be polluted. This is all quite wrong isn't it?" "Yes, it's quite wrong," without a hint of reprimand in his voice, "this is not our way." "But," he asked, trying to conceal his embarrassment, "It's not like we doing anything serious. I mean it's only a gift. Not like we doing something physical ... so it should be ok, no?" Without disturbing his calmness, Sheikh Hamaad replied, "Do you like to go fishing?" "Now you are talking my language. Not a Sunday, not one, that we not by the dam," he replied his hands waving with excitement, "We sit the whole day me and my buddies. First we prime the place with milie bombs. Just so the fish know we there. And they come, Moulana. They come for the bait. The whole lot, man ....carpe, bass, white fish, you name it. But what's that got to do with buying gifts." "When Shaytaan wants to trap someone," Sheikh replied serenely, "he first puts some bait. Innocent stuff like gifts, the odd sms, just a hello and then when the time is right .... he will strike and how you say ... you fall hook, line and sinker. Then he's got you and it's not long before he reels you in. So it starts with just a little bait. Just like the little gift that seems so innocent - it's the bait." The young man beamed with this new found revelation and couldn't wait to ask, "You are so right! And you have an amazing way of getting a point across Moulana, you didn't just lecture me but you showed me how it is wrong. Thanks a mil. You must have learnt from a great teacher?" "No doubt, I learnt from the best of all teachers," Sheikh answered, "In fact, the best of all mankind ... The Noblest Messenger of Allah - Rasoolullaah sallallaahu 'alayhiw asallam By Abdurrahman Umar

The Arabic word ‘Islam’ simply means ‘submission’, and derives from the Arabic root ‘Salema’, meaning ‘Peace’. In a religious context it means complete submission to the will of God. God Almighty has chosen His Prophets and they have come to this world enjoining righteous conduct and preaching of worshiping One God. After corruptions within Holy Scriptures and mankind, God Almighty has sent the Last Prophet, Muhammad (PBUH), to the whole of mankind to preach that there is only one religion acceptable to God – Islam. ‘The Religion before Allah is Islam (submission to His will)’ Quran: 3:19 Islam is the religion whereby we recognize God’s absolute authority, and reach an unshakable conviction that God alone possesses all power; no other entity possesses any power like Him. The natural result of such a realization is to devote our lives and our worship absolutely to God alone. This is the First Commandment in all the scriptures, including the Old Testament, the New Testament, and the Quran. The Quran is believed by Muslims as God’s final Message to humanity. BlessedIslam

assalaamu 'alaykum jazaakallah for posting...i like the Pharoah and Musa 'alayhis salaam part, great lesson in those few words. (by the way I moved two of your posts to general articles because they were proper articles) It would be nice if you could post short reminders here now and again which readers can apply to daily life ...

Question: I am a general practitioner in UK . My question is it permissible to practice give Botox injections, facial peels, dermabrasions. Mostly done for patients to look younger and good looks. I am mainly thinking of doing it for earning extra money {being honest} I would like to know If its allowed or not. What would be the answer if the need is for medicational use. Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. Botox (Botulinum Toxin Type A) is by nature a poisonous toxin. It has been approved by FDA in US for specific medicinal use, however it has gained more popularity in the cosmetic surgeries. [1] Botox serum uses enzymes from pig’s milk in its initial stage which is later on purified through industrial process. [2] Although the serum may be clinically categorized void of these enzymes in its final product form, it will still be considered an impure substance according to Shariah. Moreover, Botox has been clinically classified as a lethal toxin which if consumed in larger quantities can have devastating effects. Even in the lower medicinal usage, it is not free from some side effects. In some cases it may lead to problems in swallowing, speaking, or breathing, all-over muscle weakness, double vision, blurred vision and drooping eyelids, hoarseness or change or loss of voice (dysphonia), trouble saying words clearly (dysarthria), loss of bladder control, trouble breathing.[3] While these may be isolated conditions, they are sufficient enough for the FDA (Food and Drug Administration) to issue caution against Botox usage.[4] It was perhaps this vital information which pushed many Ulama, locally in South Africa, as well as internationally (Malaysia) to rule against Botox. [5] While many people have used Botox for beauty treatments it has been equally popular in the medical field. Since Botox is essentially a toxin with the ability to weaken or dampen the response in muscles, it has been targeted by many doctors as a temporary relief medication for illnesses due to spasmodic muscles. Some of the practical medical uses for Botox in practice are treatment for inflammation in specific areas, controlling bleeding after intramuscular injection, excessive weakness or wasting in the muscle, swallowing difficulties (dysphagia) or liquid accidentally going into the lungs (aspiration), chronic breathing problems, Diseases or conditions affecting the nervous system, seizures like epilepsy, closed angle glaucoma(eye disease) etc.[6] The medicinal usage is still not void of the potential harmful side effects that could emerge from using this serum, hence, Shariah affords a balanced approach towards its usage. The rules of Shariah are more relaxed in the case of medical need and necessity. However such relaxation is also governed closely by rules. In principle: Necessity renders the restrictions permissible[7] and Necessity warrants (permissibility of the restricted) to the extent of (one’s) necessity.[8] Hence, the use of an impure Botox serum will become permissible for medicinal use only if, The experts of the field opine the need for such a medicine[9] There is no halal alternative available As a doctor one will be responsible in providing a permissible or impermissible service to the consumer. If there is a suitable alternative for skin care treatments then that avenue should be adopted. It is not permissible to use an impure substance to beautify one self. Since Botox is impure because of the use enzymes from pig’s milk it will be impermissible to use it for purely beatification purposes. Facial Peels and dermabrasions or other cosmetic procedures. Facial peels and dermabrasions are skincare procedures which use various techniques like exfoliation of upper layers of skin to rejuvenate a healthier and smoother skin. These procedures are permissible provided that, i. The creams or lotions used do not contain impure or impermissible substance; ii. The procedure does not aim at changing the physical features.[10] iii. The procedure is not harmful to one’s health. At the same time, we also caution that venturing into the skincare procedures should not compromise the general Shar῾ī work ethos (i.e. unnecessary gender interaction etc). And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Mawlana Faisal bin Abdul Hameed Student, Darul Iftaa Canada Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. www.daruliftaa.net http://fatwa.ca/apparel-and-adornment/botox-injections/ [1]“FDA has approved Biologic License Applications (BLAs) for two botulinum toxin type A products (Botox/Botox Cosmetic and Dysport) for clinical use…” Re: Docket No. FDA-2008-P-0061 [2] Muslim Council bans Botox, January 15 2008 accessed Nov. 23 2011. [3] http://www.botox.com/ accessed Nov. 23, 2011 [4] FDA Notifies Public of Adverse Reactions Linked to Botox Use accessed Nov. 23, 2011 [5] Muslim Council bans Botox, January 15 2008 accessed Nov. 23 2011. ; Malaysian Muslims told not to use Botox, July 18 2006 accessed Nov. 30 2011; [6] http://www.netdoctor.co.uk/medicines/100000363.html accessed Dec. 01 2011. [7] ففي الأشباه والنظائر لابن نجيم (ص: 73) الضَّرُورَاتُ تُبِيحُ الْمَحْظُورَاتِ [8] ففى المرجع السابق : مَا أُبِيحَ لِلضَّرُورَةِ يُقَدَّرُ بِقَدْرِهَ [9] ففى الدر المختار وحاشية ابن عابدين (رد المحتار) (1/ 210) (قَوْلُهُ اُخْتُلِفَ فِي التَّدَاوِي بِالْمُحَرَّمِ) فَفِي النِّهَايَةِ عَنْ الذَّخِيرَةِ يَجُوزُ إنْ عَلِمَ فِيهِ شِفَاءً وَلَمْ يَعْلَمْ دَوَاءً آخَرَ [10] The prohibition excludes corrective procedures to rectify abnormalities. More information on this can be read in Fatwa #19172

From a lecture by Shaykh Muhammad Saleem Dhorat, “UM365 - Allah ki be intihaa rahmat” In this lecture our respected Shaykh (hafizahullah) relates two inspiring, heart softening stories. Despite our disobedience and disloyalty to Allah subhaanahu wata’ala we need not despair of His mercy as He remains loyal and His grace knows no bounds. Once the great Shaykh, Zun Noon Misri was walking along a river bank when he noticed that a scorpion ran towards a tortoise, jumped onto its back and the tortoise started swimming across the river. On reaching the other side the scorpion jumped off and raced towards a tree nearby. Zun Noon Misri, amazed at this scenario had followed and he noticed that a man was sleeping under the tree and it occurred to him that the man was probably a sinful person and Allah subhaanahu wata’ala had sent the scorpion as a punishment. As he neared the tree he noticed a huge python moving towards the sleeping person and to his amazement the scorpion leapt at the python, attacked and killed it. Thereafter it ran back to the riverbank, jumped onto the waiting tortoise which carried its load to the other side where they both separated and went their own way. The great Shaykh wondered at this amazing episode. He sat by the man waiting for him to wake up thinking he must be a very special friend of Allah subhaanahu wata’ala for Him to create such measures for his safety. When the man finally woke up Zun Noon Misri was shocked because he could smell the stench of alcohol on his breath. At that moment he was inspired by Allah subhaanahu wata’ala with the following words, “O Zun Noon, why are you shocked? This slave, sinful as he maybe, is My slave”! The second story is about Musa ‘alayhis salaam and Qaaroon whose enmity for the Prophet knew no bounds. After a long time Musa ‘alayhis salaam’s patience wore out and turning to Allah subhaanahu wata’ala he asked that Qaaroon be punished. Allah subhaanahu wata’ala put the earth at his disposal and Musa ‘alayhis salaam commanded the earth to swallow up Qaaroon. Upon this command Qaaroon sank into the earth up to his ankles. He started pleading with Musa ‘alayhis salaam who ignored him and commanded the earth to continue. Qaaroon sank in up to his knees and his fear increased. He pleaded for forgiveness and promised not to persecute him ever again. Musa ‘alayhis salaam refused to accept as he had indeed been tried much and he commanded the earth once again to continue. Qaaroon sank into the earth up to his waist and then as Qaroon continued to beg for forgiveness and mercy he finally disappeared completely. At this Jibra’eel the Angel descended with a message from Allah subhaanahu wata’ala saying, “O Musa, when Qaaroon pleaded with you over and over again you refused to relent. If he had but turned to Me just once I would have forgiven him.” In these stories lies a great lesson for us. We need not despair of the mercy of Allah subhaanahu wata’ala. Despite our disloyalty to Him, he remains loyal to us and does not push us away! Not only that but every occasion of Hajj, Umrah, Ramadhaan etc are but an excuse to forgive us, His disobedient servants! “He made enmity with Shaytaan when he refused to show respect to Insaan (human). Now Insaan betrays Ar-Rahmaan and befriends the enemy Shaytaan.”

Regarding moments of weakness when thoughts of giving in to sin occur, I would like to mention something beneficial I heard from my Shaykh... When there is desire to sin then one should not fall for the devious tricks of Shaytaan and say, “Allah is Ghafoorur Raheem” or remember the verse of the Qur'an: “Do not despair of the mercy of Allah”. At this time one should remember the verse, “Innallaaha shadeedul ‘iqaab”, i.e. Allah’s punishment is great. Fear His wrath coming down and avoid committing the sin. Remember that a Believer does not plan to sin. In fact he avoids all that leads to sin but sometimes nafs and Shaytaan take over and a sin is committed When this happens and a sin is committed, then now have hope in Allah’s mercy and do not despair. . . Now is the time to once again ignore the whisperings of Shaytaan and turn to Allah with regret and repentance. Now is the time to say Allah is Ghafoorur Raheem!

A Few Examples of Mawlana Rumi’s Analogy Mawlana Rumi ra describes “love for the world” in the following way: A ship needs water to float on. It will remain on the surface of the water as long as the water does not enter the ship. Once water enters the ship, it will sink. Similarly man is the ship and the world is the water. Just as the ship needs water to keep afloat, man needs the world to live. As long as the world remains outside and does not enter the heart, man will reach his destination. If the love of the world enters the heart, then like the ship which allows water to enter, it will sink. Mawlana Rumi ra gives the example of those who give their hearts to those other than Allah: It is the height of foolishness to use a candle or a lamp when the sun is at the height of its journey across the earth, so too is it foolish to turn one’s attention towards the glimmer of earthly beauty, in the face of Allah ta’ala’s Eternal Brilliance. Reflection of the Moon: An individual saw the reflection of the moon in the river and thought to himself, “Tonight the moon has descended into the river, let me grab hold of it because to reach up into the heavens is extremely difficult.” When he stepped into the water his foot cause the soil beneath to move and make the water murky, due to which the reflection was no longer visible. He was thus deprived of the reflection as well as the actual moon which remained unattainable. Mawlana Rumi draws a lesson from this , that as long as we remain distant from attractive young men and women we will attain Allah ta’ala. If on the other hand we run behind the reflection of beauty, we will be deprived of the Original. The Snake Catcher Maulana Rumi ra relates a story of a snake catcher who once went to the mountains. Due to the winter cold and heavy snow, many very big snakes lay motionless, as if they were dead. The snake-catcher picked up one of these seemingly lifeless snakes and took it to Baghdad, with the purpose of using it for a show. Showing it off, he made big claims as to how he had deftly captured the snake – captivating the attention of his audience. However, when the sun began to shine and its warmth cloaked the snake, the coldness in its body disappeared. The signs of life were soon apparent and when the snake began to move, the snake-catcher and all those around, fled. Maulana Rumi ra then explains that our nafs is like that snake. With Tazkia (purification) and mushaqqat (effort), our nafs (self) becomes frozen. It appears to be dead. But give it a little heat from the fire of sin and it will bite again. A little exposure to some past sins and the nafs swings back to life.

In one Hadith it is mentioned that the person who recites Durud once, Allaah opens a door of safety and security for him. Another Hadith states that the person who recites Durud once, Allaah will send ten mercies upon him, forgive ten sins of his and raise his stages by ten. Allamah Shams ud Deen Sakhaawi rahmatullah alaih , has first briefly mentioned the special virtues and the benefits in this world and the Aakhirah in Al Qawl al Badee. He then proved them from the Ahadith in detail. Similarly, Muhaddith Bhopali rahmatullah alaih has mentioned the special blessings of Durud in Nuzul ul Abraar as well as the narrator from whom it has been proven. Herewith we briefly mention the special virtues and blessings of Durud, from which we can gauge what great and lofty blessings and benefits Durud holds. By means of this, every believer will be encouraged to recite Durud in abundance A person synchronizes with Allaah in that Allaah also sends Durud. A person synchronizes with the angels in that they also send Durud. A single Durud of a believer draws ten mercies of Allaah. It is a means of attaining the mercy and Du'aa of the angels. It is a means of attaining the Du'aa and mercy of Rasulullaah e. A single Durud causes ten mercies to descend, ten sins are forgiven and a person's stages are raised by ten. Recital of a hundred Durud is a means of freedom from Jahannam and hypocrisy. A hundred Durud causes a hundred needs to be fulfilled. A hundred Durud is a means of getting to live with the martyrs. A hundred Durud draws a thousand Durud of the angels. A person gets the reward of a 'Qeeraat' for reciting Durud once. Forgiveness is sought on behalf of the person who recites Durud. It causes the forgiveness of sins. It purifies deeds. It carries more reward than freeing a slave. A person's deeds will be weighed in a large scale. A person will enter Jannah together with Rasulullaah e. A single Durud draws seventy mercies from the angels. It causes one to get the intercession of Rasulullaah e. It causes one to get the testimony of Rasulullaah e (in ones favour). It is a means of salvation from fear of Qiyaamah. It causes one's scale to be filled with good deeds. It is a means of getting the shade of the 'arsh. It is a means of getting many spouses in Jannah. It is a means of being the closest to Rasulullaah e on the Day of Qiyaamah. It brings the happiness and pleasure of Allaah I. It is a means of being quenched from the pond of kauthar-pond. It brings the help and assistance of the angels. It is a means of protection from severe thirst on the plains of resurrection. It causes a person to be firm on the bridge of siraat. A person attains the reward equal to fighting in a Ghazwah. A person attains the reward of charity if he does not have wealth to give in charity. It is the most beloved of deeds. It is the beauty of gatherings. It causes poverty and straitened conditions to be removed. The blessings of Durud carry on in ones progeny. It is a means of shaking the hand of Rasulullaah e on the Day of Qiyaamah. It causes the rust of the heart to be removed. It causes one to remember something that he forgot. It is a means of protection from mistakes in the path to Jannah. It is a means of strengthening and enlivening the heart. It brings blessings in the affairs of the recite. It causes love for Rasulullaah e to increase. A person will become beloved and honoured in the sight of others. It will cause one to see Rasulullaah e in a dream. It causes one to attain such light through which a person will over power his enemies. It causes sorrow and grief, calamities and difficulties to be removed. It is a means of being saved from drowning. Blessings will come in a person's wealth. A person will get glad tidings of Jannah or he will see his abode in Jannah in this world. It causes one to be saved from the backbiting of others. It causes one to be safe from accusation. It causes all types of blessings in this world and in the Aakhirah. It causes Du'aa to be accepted, that Durud is accepted, and due to this, the Du'aa is also accepted. [Adapted from Al Qawl al Badee p.98, Jilaa ul Afhaam p.246] Alislam.co.za

Q. If a person passed away and had Sajdah Tilawah that he had not completed in his lifetime, how will the family repay it? (Query published as received) A. When one recites a verse of Sajdah of the Qur’an or hears such a verse, it is Wajib (compulsory) to make Sajdah Tilawah. It is Makrooh (disliked) to delay the Sajdah Tilawah without valid reason. If one did not fulfill his/her Wajib Sajdah Tilawah before passing away, there is no Fidyah (compensation) for the omitted Sajdahs. The family should make Istighfar (seek Allah’s forgiveness) on behalf of the deceased. (Imdadul Fatawa, Vol:1, Pg: 559) And Allah Knows Best Mufti Suhail Tarmahomed Confirmation: Mufti Ebrahim Desai Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians Website : www.jamiat.org.za