ummtaalib

Did Nabi (sallallahu 'alayhi wa sallam) see Waraqah ibn Nawfal in Jannah? Question Is this Hadith authentic? Al Hakim reported from Sayyidatuna ‘Aaishah (radiyallahu ‘anha) that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “Do not slander Waraqah ibn Nawfal for I have seen that he will have one or two gardens in Jannah” Answer Imam Hakim (rahimahullah) has recorded this narration and has declared it as authentic. (Mustadrak Hakim, vol. 2 pg. 609) Hafiz Abu Bakr Al Bazzar (rahimahullah) has also recorded two versions of this narration. The first via an unbroken chain (متصلا) and the second mursalan (مرسلا), [where the Tabi’i attributes a Hadith directly to Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam), omitting his source] (Refer: Majma’uz Zawaid, vol. 9 pg. 416) Imam Daraqutni (rahimahullah) and Hafiz Ibn Kathir (rahimahullah) have preferred the version where the Tabi’i attributed the Hadith directly to Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) (Refer: Al Bidayah Wan Nihayah, vol. 3 pg. 198.) Nevertheless, the narration in question is still suitable to quote and is further supported by the following narrations: 1) Sayyidatuna Khadijah (radiyallahu ‘anha) asked Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) regarding Waraqah ibn Nawfal. Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: ” I had seen in in a dream dressed in white clothing. If he were destined for Jahannam I don’t think he would have been wearing white” (Musnad Ahmad, vol. 6 pg. 65 Hafiz Ibn Kathir has declared the chain of narrators as sound –hasan-. Al Bidayah Wan Nihayah, vol. 3 pg. 197) 2) Sayyiduna Jabir (radiyallahu ‘anhu) reports that Rasulullah (sallalahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “I saw him [Waraqah ibn Nawfal] walking in the center of Jannah, wearing a silk garment” (Musnad Abu Ya’la with a weak chain, Hadith: 2047. Refer: Majma’uz Zawaid, vol. 9 pg. 416) Some Muhaddithun and Biographers of Sahabah were of the view that Waraqah ibn Nawfal was a Sahabi. See here for more details. And Allah Ta’ala Knows best Answered by: Moulana Suhail Motala Approved by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar Source

After Prophet Muhammad sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam received the first revelation in the Cave of Heera, he left the cave and returned home to Khadeejah RA and said,زَمِّلُونِي زَمِّلُونِي (Wrap me up, wrap me up!) So she wrapped him up until his fear went away. After that he told Khadeejah everything that had happened and said he feared that something may happen to him. Khadeejah replied that Allah would never disgrace him since he kept goo relations with relatives, spoke the truth, helped the poor and the destitute, served guests generously and helped the deserving. She then accompanied him to see her paternal cousin Waraqah bin Nawfal bin Asad bin `Abdul-`Uzza bin Qusay. Waraqa had studied the books of both the Jews and the Christians very closely and he had learned a great deal from many of their wisest people. He knew that the coming of another Prophet had been foretold by both Moses and Jesus, peace be on them, and he knew many of the signs that would confirm the identity of this Prophet when he appeared. After listening closely to his story, Waraqa, who was both old and blind, exclaimed, “This is the same being who brought the revelations of Allah to Moses. I wish I was young and could be alive when your people will drive you out.” “Will they drive me out?” asked Muhammad. “Yes,” replied Waraqa. “No one has come with what you have been given without being treated with enmity; and if I were to live until the day when you are turned out, then I would support you with all my might. Let me just feel your back.” So, saying, Waraqa felt between the Prophet’s shoulder-blades and found what he was feeling for: a small round, slightly raised irregularity in the skin, about the size of a pigeon’s egg. This was yet another of the many signs that Waraqa already knew would indicate the identity of the next Prophet after Jesus, (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). “This is the Seal of the Prophethood!” he exclaimed. “Now I am certain that you are indeed the Prophet whose coming was foretold in the Torah that was revealed to Moses and in the Injil that was revealed to Jesus, (pbut) You are indeed the Messenger of Allah, and the being who appeared to you on the mountain was indeed the angel Jibril!”

Wa'alaykumus salaam warahmatullah Yes that's fine

Q. Can a women perform Tawaaf-e-Ziyaarah in Haidh? Does she have to perform Tawaaf-e-Widaa if she is in Haidh? (Question published as received) A. A woman in the state of menstruation (Haidh) will perform all the rituals of Hajj during the five days of Hajj expect for the following two rituals: 1) Tawaaf-e-Ziyaarah: The performance of Tawaaf-e-Ziyaarah is a compulsory (Fardh) act of Hajj, which is performed after pelting on the 10th of Dhul-Hijjah until the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. A woman in the state of menstruation cannot perform Tawaaf-e-Ziyaarah until her menstruation has terminated. She should wait for her menses to terminate and then perform Tawaaf-e-Ziyaarah even if it terminates after the 12th of Dhul-Hijjah. N.B. If a woman performs Tawaaf-e-Ziyaarah in the state of menstruation, a penalty of a big animal (Badanah) i.e. cow, camel etc. becomes necessary (Waajib) to compensate for it. In doing so, the performance of Tawaaf-e-Ziyaarah will be fulfilled and the Hajj would be completed. 2) Tawaaf-e-Widaa: The performance of Tawaaf-e-Widaa is a necessary (Waajib) act of Hajj for non-residents of Makkah, which is performed before departing from Makkah Mukarramah after performing all the rituals of Hajj. A woman in the state of menstruation is exempt from performing Tawaaf-e-Widaa, if she has completed all her rituals of Hajj and it is time to depart. In such a case, no form of penalty will apply. (Muallimul-Hujjaaj 183/186/196/197/231) And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best Mufti Ismaeel Bassa Confirmation: Mufti Ebrahim Desai (The answer hereby given is specifically based on the question asked and should be read together with the question asked. Islamic rulings on this Q&A newsletter are answered in accordance to the Hanafi Fiqh unless otherwise stated.) Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN)

Can we know Allah Ta'ala? Allah ta’ala says in the Qur’an: لَيْسَ كَمِثْلِهِ شَيْءٌ ۖ وَهُوَ السَّمِيعُ الْبَصِيرُ “There is no one like Him. He Alone hears all and sees all” [Surah Shu’araa:11] meaning there is nothing similar or comparable to Him. There have been theological discussions among Scholars and there are different opinions with some saying, how can we know something that is unlike anything? Therefore they are saying it is not possible to know Allah ta’ala. Junaid Baghdaadi (رحمه الله) says, “Only God knows God.” However we have the well-known concept of “Ma’rifah” (Comes from عرف i.e. deep awareness/knowledge). Ma’rifat is to recognise the greatness of Allah ta’ala and part of the recognition is recognising one’s own dependency upon Him i.e. how low, humble and dependant we are. There is famous saying of Scholars; من عرف نفسه فقد عرف ربه -Whosoever knows himself, knows his Lord. Imam Ghazali (رحمه الله) has especially gone to its depth and explains with many examples. He says if one person says, “I know Allah” and another says “I do not know Allah”, they are both correct as there are different ways of “knowing”. Some knowledge is general and some, specific. For example a person says he knows a writer i.e. in terms of his writings, then that is correct and if a person says he does not know the writer i.e. in terms of who he is, his character etc. then that is also correct. Therefore generally we know Allah ta’ala is there i.e. we know of His existence however we do not have the real, deep, intimate knowledge of Allah ta’ala. Another example he gives is a glass with some liquid in it. If someone asks what it is and the answer given is, “sweet” or “bitter”, it is not really giving an answer as to what the substance is. It is describing the attributes of the substance so in a way it is an answer but not the real answer and that is our knowledge of the Sifaat of Allah ta’ala. We know He is Raheem (Merciful), Ghaffaar (Most Forgiving) etc. but Who is He? We do not have that deep, intimate knowledge of Him. Imam Ghazali (رحمه الله) says the knowledge is there however it is very limited and very inadequate. When we study the names of Allah ta’ala, it opens up different perspectives as there are different ways Allah ta’ala manifests His attributes and we can understand Allah ta’ala through the way He manifests Himself through His attributes. Imam Ghazali (رحمه الله) goes on to give the example of a blind man and colours. His sense of sight will not be able to comprehend the colours. It is like a person who describes the taste of a fruit in different ways however the other person can never fully know what the taste is like. We have five senses however they are very limited and it is like being blind as we cannot really know and understand Allah ta’ala. The only time we will truly realise that sense of knowing Allah ta’ala fully, is in the Aakhirah. Whatever we sense and feel in this world is going to be limited compared to the Aakhirah. We imagine and compare His attributes to those of the world i.e. we imagine His mercy to that of someone of this world. He is Living but not like living things we know. He is Powerful but it is not like those who are powerful in this world etc. Knowing Allah ta’ala has ranks or levels. One is to know Allah ta’ala in general terms i.e. he is Powerful, and a higher level is to see the subtle workings of Allah ta’ala in the world and really know His power even though this knowledge is inadequate. It is similar to knowing your teacher as a teacher however we cannot know her as her own mother would know her. So knowledge of Allah ta’ala has different levels and though they are all inadequate, some levels are more inadequate than others. Therefore even if some Scholars say it is not possible at all to know Allah ta’ala, and we may not understand the in depth philosophical debates of the Scholars and the knowledge we acquire may be limited and inadequate, we should still try to know Allah ta’ala. That is why Allah ta’ala mentions His names and attributes in the Qur’an. The Ultimate Knowledge of Allah ta’ala The ultimate knowledge according to the Sahaba RA and the Scholars is to realise that one does not really know Him. Abu Bakr Siddique RA said, “To realise I cannot attain Ma’rifat (I cannot know God) is in itself Ma’rifat.”Therefore to realise one can never really know Him, is to know Him. The Prophet sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam said in Du’a: اللهم إني أعوذ برضاك من سخطك، وبمعافاتك من عقوبتك، وأعوذ بك منك، لا أحصي ثناء عليك أنت كما أثنيت على نفسك‏ "O Allah! I seek protection against Your Wrath in Your Pleasure. I seek protection in Your Pardon against Your chastisement, I am not capable of enumerating praise of You. You are as You have praised Yourself." Therefore by studying the names of Allah ta'ala, we will increase our awareness of how little we know.

Part 2 Jungles Cleared History proves that this is how the Muslim will attain victory and glory over the world. This is how the Muslims of yonder, despite being in the minority, conquered city after city, country after country, and ruled the world over centuries. Then not only did they rule over land and people; they even ruled over animals and the elements of nature. When the army of the Sahabah stood on the shore of Africa’s formidable jungles, then the commander-in-chief, Hadrat Uqba (may Allah’s be pleased with him) made an announcement to the speechless inhabitants of the jungle: “O residents of the jungle! We are the Sahabah on our mission. We request you to clear this jungle. After this ultimatum if any of you are found herein, we will kill you!” Hardly was this announcement completed that streams of deadly animals, herding away their young ones, were seen exiting the jungle as swiftly as possibly. Lions Tamed A Sahabi, Hadrat Safīnah (may Allah’s be pleased with him), once lost his way and strayed away into a jungle. Suddenly a lion appeared. He introduced himself to the lion and explained his plight to it. Waging its tail like a subdued puppy, the lion led the way for him, growling away any would-be attackers, and finally led him to a clearing where an army of the Sahabah (may Allah’s be pleased with him) was encamped. Seas Subjugated In the battle of Madāin, the Sahabah needed to cross a stormy sea in order to reach the enemy shores. There were no ships available. Hadrat Sa’ad (may Allah’s be pleased with him) instructed his army to plunge into the sea in pairs of two. The horses pranced across the water most calmly. Hadrat Sa’ad (may Allah’s be pleased with him) was heard saying, “Verily Allah will certainly assist His friends; Allah will certainly grant them victory over their enemies until they do not commit injustices or until their vices do not overpower their virtues.” Similar is the incident of Hadrat Ala bin Hadhrami who crossed the sea with an army of four thousand soldiers. Such was their crossing that not even the hooves of the horses became wet. Oppression – Its Results History is replete with incidents of the destruction of the oppressor and the alleviation of the oppressed. Did Allah not disgrace Namrūd at the hands of his populace and destroy him through an insignificant mosquito? Did He not protect His friend, Hadrat Ibrahim (peace be upon him) from the blazing inferno and convert it into a garden of bliss? Thus Allah assists the oppressed and destroys the oppressors. Did Allah not crush the proud and mighty Pharoah and elevate the oppressed and down-trodden Bani Isrā’īl? History bears ample testimony to the fact that so long as the Muslims continued to uphold the Qur’an and hadith in their daily lives, countries – nay, empires crumbled at their feet. Small bands of devout Muslims were sufficient to awestruck and demolish mighty forces. Emperors of superpowers trembled at the mere thought of the Muslims. Yet these very victors of mighty empires, when they succumbed to comforts and luxuries, discarded the Qur’an and hadith, resorted to oppression and cruelty of their subjugates, became power-drunk and arrogant and indulged openly in wine and women, fell from the glorious pinnacles of civilization and progress into the abyss of disgrace and stagnation. Slumber of the Muslim Nation With great regret and sorrow it has to be noted that despite all these upheavals, the Muslim nation continues to slumber away. Never have they taken lesson from their past and never have they formulated a directive and a goal for the future. Never have we pondered over the vicissitudes of life, the daily lessons of the change of tides in the affairs of the world. Despite being totally insignificant in the affairs of the world and in the eyes of non-Muslims, we continue to labour away in this false sense of pride that we once ruled the world. The Muslims continue to lead a sedentary existence of listlessness, heedlessness, indulgence in luxuries and pleasures, false pride and vain glory, sin, crime and transgression, oppression and exploitation, ignorance in trade, commerce, science and technology. On the other hand they are involved in mutual hatred, enmity, racism, discrimination, embroiled against each other in court cases and lawsuits. Their ignorance of religion compels them to uphold meaningless customs and rituals; and competing against each other in these, they spend lavishly and large sums of money, involving themselves at times in massive debts accompanied by hefty percentages of interest. Ultimately they have to sell hearth and home to alleviate these crushing financial disasters and land up as penniless paupers on the side of streets. Due to lethargy and indolence they are not prepared to undertake labour or any menial occupations and finally end up as the scum and scavengers of society: abject beggars at the doors of all and sundry. What a dismal picture! When will we awake? The Cure This is merely a framework and a totally elementary program for general upliftment and reform of the Muslim Ummah: Every Muslim, male and female, must immediately resolve to at least fulfill the basic requirements of Islam, especially Salah. A massive educational program to be specially launched on an organized basis with emphasis on religious education and more so education of adults. Basing our social life on the Sunnah and our economic activities solely on the laws of the Shariah. Total abstention from mutual conflicts and in-fighting. In case of contention, to amicably solve any problems through proper arbitration. Dissociation from all customs and rituals at the time of birth, marriages, funerals, and other occasions. Particular emphasis on cleanliness, health education, and physical fitness. May Allah grant all Muslims the good of both the worlds. Jamiatul Ulama (KZN)

When the Ummah is tested: Causes & Solutions By: Mufti Muhammad Fārūq Meeruti (Rahimahullah) “Verily Allah does not change the condition of a people unless they change it themselves.” (Qur’an 13:11) The Muslim is daily faced by a host of new problems and difficulties. Their lives, property and self-respect is trampled upon and worse than that, their religious matters are tampered and interfered with, their Masjids are under constant threat and are disallowed proper implementation of their Islamic law. Our Blindness Despite this, the Muslim considers these to be chance occurrences or mere coincidences, thus never pausing to even consider the actual cause and reason behind this suffering. At the most, a few concerned souls, who are momentarily stirred by this state of affairs, call up some fancy conference, pass a few vague resolutions and disappear back into oblivion, contented that they have fulfilled their duties towards Islam. The Diagnosis A dire need exists for us to study the Qur’an and Hadith and thereby realize the primary cause for our disgrace and downfall. It is an undisputed axiom of reality that no incident occurs in this universe accidentally. Allah and His Messenger Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam have explained to us in the Qur’an and Hadith: “And whatever calamity befalls you, it is due to your own doings and Allah forgives many of your shortcomings.” (Qur’an 42:30) “Corruption has spread on water and land due to the doings of mankind in order that Allah make them taste the penalty of some of their doings. Perhaps they may retract (from their disobedience).” (Qur’an 30:41) Gratefulness Proper appreciation of Allah’s bounties is the correct utilization of these favours. To utilize life, health, faculties of sight, hearing, feeling, thinking, locomotion, finances, status and position, all for the pleasure of Allah and in accordance with His commandments is true appreciation of Allah’s bounties. The anti-thesis of this is ungratefulness, which invites the wrath and displeasure of Allah. Heavenly Blessings (Barakah) Adopting a life of Taqwa (piety) i.e. fulfilling all the commands of the Shariah and abstaining from the prohibitions is the cause of blessings descending from the heavens. “If the people of the locality had believed and adopted Taqwa (piety), We would have opened upon them the blessings of the heavens and the earth; but they denied and falsified, thus We seized them due to their actions.” (Qur’an, 7:96) The Consequences of Sin With regards to the verse, “And whatever calamity befalls you, it is due to your own doings.” (Qur’an 42:30), Rasulullah (Allah’s peace be upon him) explained the tafsīr of this verse to Hadrat Ali (may Allah’s be pleased with him) thus: “O Ali! whatever calamity befalls you: illness, affliction or any worldly calamity, it is the earning of your own hands.” Once Asmā bint Abi Bakr Radhiyallahu Anha experienced a headache. She exclaimed, “This is due to my sins.” (Durr al-Manthūr, Ibn Kathīr) Our Condition Let us now examine our lifestyles. Salaah, which has been described as the criterion between Imaan and Kufr (disbelief), how much does it feature in the life of the Muslims? How many adhere to the other basic requirements of Islam such as fasting, zakat, and hajj? On the other hand, consider the prohibitions of Islam, how many Muslims are engrossed in these day and night? How many have adopted these as part of their lifestyle? Liquor, Interest, Adultery, Bribery & Corruption, Disobedience to Parents, Enjoining Right and Forbidding Evil, Oppression and Injustice, Dishonouring the Ulama etc. are being perpetrated by Muslims on a daily basis. Our Example How cruel have we been upon ourselves that due to our sins we are constantly involving ourselves in disasters and calamities? At the same time, we continuously lament and wail away at our pathetic condition. Our example is like that of a person suffering from diarrhoea and yet continues to take laxatives, complaining all the time of diarrhoea. What could be said to such a fool? Oppressive Leaders In a similar way, today we complain about the oppression of our leaders, whereas these leaders have been appointed over us due to our transgressions. Rasulullah (Allah’s peace be upon him) said: Just as you (i.e. your actions) are, so will your rulers be. It is a popular adage: “Your actions are your rulers.” In other words, [based upon] your actions will your rulers treat you. This is the example of the Muslim Ummah. If we are disobedient to Allah, He appoints the weakest of nations upon us. They torture and oppress us most mercilessly. Our only salvation is by turning to Allah in sincere regret and repentance. Then no nation – not even the so called superpowers – will have the courage to stare at us! Time and again, we are crushed by disasters and calamities. Our laments, complaints, and wailing never end. Yet, when our shortcomings are pointed out to us, we remain totally indifferent and heedless. Never have we even attempted to bring about any reform within ourselves. Never have we attempted to avoid those destructive sins and crimes that are the direct sources of our misery and suffering. It is most astonishing that when an ordinary doctor warns of some epidemic, we are hasty to inoculate ourselves. Yet, when Allah and His Rasul (Allah’s peace be upon him) are consistently guiding us towards our success and warning us against our destruction (with the greatest of concern and sincerity) we remain totally unmoved and heedless, and we plunge headlong into those very pitfalls of destruction. Our only road to success and glory is total obedience to Allah and His Rasul (Allah’s peace be upon him) and following step-by-step the path tread by our pious predecessors.

6 Easy Ways to Stay Healthy World Health Day (7 April 2019) Sayyiduna Abu Hurairah Radhiyallahu Anhu narrated that Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, “Indeed [among] the first things a person will be asked about on the Day of Qiyamah is that it will be said to him, ‘Did We not make your body healthy and give you cool water to drink?” (Tirmidhi) 1. Feed your soul We are commanded by Allah the Almighty, to pray five times a day. However, apart from the blessings and benefit we gain from Salaah in the Hereafter, does it have health benefits as well? According to an article, during Salaah when you go into sujood, extra blood flows to your brain. Extra blood supply to the skin on your face helps prevent diseases, drains the sinuses and makes it less likely for you to get bronchitis. When a person breathes normally, only two thirds of the capacity of the lung is exhaled out and the remaining one third remains in the lung as a residual air. During sujood, the abdominal visra press against the diaphragm. The latter presses against the lower part of the lungs and the lower lobes. When you breathe during sujood, the remaining one third residual air is aired out, helping your lungs remain in a healthy state. As Muslims, we do not pray with the intention of gaining these health benefits, but rather, to worship the Almighty Allah. These benefits are mere side dishes, while worshiping and getting closer to Allah is our main dish. 2. Feed your body “Eat of the good things which We have provided for you.” (2:173) It is established in the medical practice that we must have a balanced diet with all the right amounts of carbs, proteins, vitamins and minerals etc. in order to help our systems function to their optimal abilities. We also know that eating excessively can cause numerous diseases such as diabetes, vascular diseases, stroke, heart attack etc., and that moderation is the key. “Eat and drink, but avoid excess”. (20: 81) 3. Feed your mind Challenge your brain. Mental activity not only improves your intelligence, but your brain is the centre of everything in your body. If it is healthy, then you are less at risk to attract diseases. The first word revealed in the Quran was “Iqra” which means “read”. Allah is sending us a direct message. We are encouraged to read, read, read! We should read every and anything we can get our hands on, as long as its halal. We should be learning from the cradle to the grave. While what we deem traditionally as Islamic knowledge is at the forefront of what we should know, it is useful for us to realise that Allah is the creator of all things. So, when we are at school and are learning about plateaus and volcanoes in geography, or about protons, neutrons and electrons in chemistry, we are learning about the world in which Allah created us and we should not disregard the importance of this knowledge rather as Muslims we become more aware of the majesty of Allah’s power and grandeur. 4. Feed your heart Research has shown that when you smile, your body releases endorphins which automatically make you happier, and in a brighter mood. Smiles are like high-fives to your immune system; your whole body thanks you just for smiling. The endorphins released during a smile also act as natural pain killers, so when you’re in physical, emotional or mental anguish, try smiling and see the difference it makes! Smiling is Sunnah as well! Our beloved Nabi Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, “Your smiling in the face of your brother is considered charity.” (Tirmidhi) 5. Feed your relationships The Prophet Sallallahu Alayhi wa Sallam said, “The best of you is the best to his family and I am the best amongst you to my family”. (Tirmidhi) In Islam, family matters. They are the people who will be there for you no matter what happens. They love you unconditionally and we all have a duty to keep our family relations in good order. We are taught to treat our parents with respect and to treat our children with kindness while leading them on the right path of Allah. Having good relationships with our family reduces stress and confusion which at times ages us and makes us unhealthy. We need to be positive and mend all broken relationships in order to have a truly successful and healthy life. 6. Feed your emotions Contrary to popular belief, emotions are not a sign of weakness. It is actually a strength, in that it allows us to handle every and any type of situation thrown at us. We are not mere robots and we need to embrace that. Knowing ourselves allows us to embrace ourselves for who we are and to accept the way we feel. Emotions are given their due place of importance in all Islamic teachings as fundamental elements of the human soul. Islam teaches moderation in everything, aiming to create equilibrium so that one is always at peace with one’s self, the universe, and most importantly, Allah. In Islam, the concept of managing emotions is a pretty easy and simple one. The whole concept sums up in two easy points: looking at the people below us in worldly matters and looking at the people above us in religious matters. This allows us to be focused and content with what we have, and to know where we are headed, rather than shy away from what we experience or feel inadequate about what we do possess. Staying healthy can be really easy. All we need to do is stay positive and implement these few steps and we will, Inshallah, be on our way to a more healthy lifestyle! By Sister Nasmira Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Q. Does the passing of wind from the front passage of a woman break her Wudhu? This happens sometimes. (Question published as received) A. The passing of wind through the front passage of a female (Vaginal flatulence) does not break the wudhu. (Maraaqil Falaah 1/38) And Allah Ta’ala Knows Best Mufti Ismaeel Bassa Confirmation: Mufti Ebrahim Desai (The answer hereby given is specifically based on the question asked and should be read together with the question asked. Islamic rulings on this Q&A newsletter are answered in accordance to the Hanafi Fiqh unless otherwise stated.) Fatwa Department Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Q: What is the Islamic perspective on modelling, photography and photoshoots in Islam? Is it Haraam or is it permissible for a male or female to earn a living as a model and appear in fashion shows? A: Working as a model and appearing in fashion shows is totally haraam in Islam as it incorporates a host of activities which contravene the laws of Shari'ah. Below we will explain some of the wrongs and evils tied to this profession: 1. Modelling and fashion shows generally aim to promote the latest styles and designs in fashion. Hence, in an effort to boost their market and make their new fashions appealing, every effort is made to cater for the demands of their clientèle. Nudity and lewd conduct, wine and music, intermingling of men and women etc. are but a few of the many wrongs found in such gatherings. 2. Photography and videoing are an integral part of modelling. Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam) said: إن أشد الناس عذابا عند الله يوم القيامة المصورون (صحيح البخاري 2/880 ، صحيح لمسلم 2/201) Those involved in picture-making will be subjected to the worst forms of punishment on the day of Qiyaamat. (Bukhari 2/880, Muslim 2/201) 3. The Deen of Islam is a Deen which rests on the bedrock of simplicity and hayaa (shame and modesty) in all spheres of a person's life. Whether relating to his domestic, social or economic life, Islam strongly advocates adopting the values of simplicity and hayaa (shame and modesty) to the highest levels. One is thus required to display simplicity and hayaa in his/her dressing, behavior and conduct among people. The modest clothing that Islam commands a woman to wear even when she is in the confines of her home diametrically opposes the body-hugging and revealing clothing promoted by the western culture. Apart from this, the one modelling for a photoshoot or walking down the catwalk - at the time when the music is being played and the videoing is taking place - is required to show off and make an expression of his/her beauty in such clothing. This conduct and behaviour opposes the very core of the Islamic teachings. Islam instructs one to refrain from boastfulness and pride at all times and to adopt humility in all facets of life. Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam) said: لا يدخل الجنة من كان في قلبه مثقال ذرة من كبر (ترمذي رقم 1999) The one who has an iota of pride will never enter paradise. 4. Most of the time, the clothing promoted in modelling is of such a nature that it allows a woman's satar and many parts of her body to be either exposed or discernible. At times, the woman modelling is required to model in unisex clothing or clothing worn by men, whereas the Hadith has condemned and severely cursed a woman that dresses like a man and vice versa. The Hadith has similarly cursed women who reveal and expose parts of their bodies before non-mahram men in a seductive manner with the aim of luring them towards themselves. In modelling, all these wrongs are clearly visible. When this is the grave condition of people who attract the divine wrath of Allah Ta'ala, we can well imagine the condition of all those who congregate at fashion shows to promote such wrongs and to view such women. Below are the Ahaadith that warn us of the serious consequences of such sins. عن ابن عباس رضي الله عنهما قال لعن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم المتشبهين من الرجال بالنساء والمتشبهات من النساء بالرجال رواه البخاري وأبو داود والترمذي والنسائي وابن ماجه والطبراني (الترغيب والترهيب رقم 3139) It is reported from Hadhrat ibn Abbaas (radhiyallahu anhuma) that Nabi (sallallahu alaihi wasallam) had cursed those men who emulate women and those women who emulate men in their dressing, etc. عن أبي هريرة قال قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم صنفان من أهل النار لم أرهما قوم معهم سياط كأذناب البقر يضربون بها الناس ونساء كاسيات عاريات مميلات مائلات رؤوسهن كأسنمة البخت المائلة لا يدخلن الجنة ولا يجدن ريحها وإن ريحها ليوجد من مسيرة كذا وكذا. (مسلم 2/383) Hadhrat Abu Hurairah (Radiyallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “There will be two groups (in my ummat) who will be punished in Jahannum whom I have not yet seen (i.e. they will emerge after my demise). One group will carry whips with them, resembling the tails of cattle, with which they will (oppressively) lash the people. The second group will be those women who despite wearing clothes will still be naked (i.e. they will wear tight fitting or transparent clothing). They will attract men to themselves, and they themselves will be inclined towards them. Their heads will resemble the humps of the Bukhti camels (i.e. they will wear buns which will be high like camel humps). They will neither enter Jannah nor smell its fragrance, despite its fragrance being perceivable from a great distance away.” 5. Islam views women as being invaluable and extremely precious. Islam has thus exalted them, making them the queens of their homes. They are instructed to remain within the confines of their homes where all their needs will be fulfilled and taken care of by the men. Men have been tasked with the responsibility of fulfilling the needs of their wives and families and thus they have been commanded to leave the home in order to earn a living. The western culture has dragged women out of their homes under the pretext of gender equality and made them shoulder the obligations and responsibilities of men. In this way, apart from having to play her own role in life (cook, tend to the children, see to the house chores, etc), she also has to play the role of the man and therefore carries a double burden. Hence, we see that the west, by dragging women out of their homes into the market places, have reduced the position of women from a queen to a slave who has to serve all and sundry. This is nothing but a plan to take advantage of women, thereby stripping them of their respect and dignity. How many women are robbed of their chastity and respect in the work place by men who manipulate them and take advantage of them? In this way, we find that the west has debased and degraded women and reduced them to a mere advertising tool to market their products. Hence, we find that her picture is sold to companies in order to be plastered on mundane items such as toothpaste, soaps, cereals, etc. Accordingly, she is modelled before all and sundry in order to make their product sell in the market. This is nothing but gross injustice towards women. True respect, honour and dignity can only be attained by following the pristine, pure teachings of Islam and the mubaarak sunnah of Nabi (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam). If we seek honour and respect elsewhere, we will bring nothing but disgrace and humiliation to ourselves. Hazrat Umar (Radiyallahu Anhu) has emphasized: إنا كنا أذل قوم فأعزنا الله بالإسلام فمهما نطلب العز بغير ما أعزنا الله به أذلنا الله (حاكم #207) "We were the most disgraced of people. Allah Ta'ala then gave us honour through Islam. If we ever seek honour in something besides that through which Allah Ta'ala has honoured us (Islam), Allah Ta'ala will disgrace us." Hence, from the abovementioned discussion, the severe Deeni harms and consequences for the one who undertakes modelling or even participates in a modelling show as a spectator are quite clear. And Allah Ta'ala (الله تعالى) knows best. Answered by: Mufti Zakaria Makada Checked & Approved: Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Isipingo Beach)

Question: If a lady has a miscarriage after 7 weeks and then bleeds after that, will it be regarded as Haidh or Istihaadah? Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. There are three principles and rulings of miscarriage: 1) If the miscarried fetus has any human features such as finger, hand, hair, etc., then the bleeding after the miscarriage is lochia (nifaas). 2) The bleeding after a miscarried embryo (i.e. the stage before any discernible human features) is not lochia (nifaas). 3) If the embryo has no discernible human features, then the bleeding before or after the miscarriage is haidh (menstruation) if it continues for at least 3 days (72 hours) and is preceded by a complete tuhr. If the bleeding is lesser than 3 days or it is before 15 days from the last haidh, then it is Istihadha. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Mirza Mahmood Baig Student Darul Iftaa KSA Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai.

A miser was on his death bed. He told his wife to put all his money in a box and bury it with him. She promised him she would. Soon after that he died. At the funeral her friend asked her if she had done as she had promised. She said yes she had and her friend looked very shocked. She smiled and said, "I deposited all the money in the bank, wrote him a cheque and put it in the box. If he can cash the cheque, he can have the money!"

New Zealand Attack 5 Things Muslims Must Know Everyone has heard of the atrocity that took place in New Zealand on Friday the 8th of Rajab 1440, corresponding to 15th March 2019. The harrowing terrorist attack on two Masājid left at least 50 innocent Muslim worshippers killed and scores more injured. As the dust begins to settle and the world begins to come to terms with this egregious event, below we outline some key lessons to equip Muslims around the world and particularly in the West with the appropriate mind-set moving forward. 1. We have to have Active Patience We begin by offering our heartfelt condolences to the families of those who were killed and injured. We exhort Muslims to embrace active patience (Sabr), rather than passive patience. The latter is to passively accept the news of a calamity because one is left with no choice; whereas active patience is to internally accept and be content that it happened by Allāh’s pre-ordained decree, thereby attaining the fullest reward. On that form of patience, Allah says in the Qur’ān: “We will test you with a certain amount of fear and hunger and loss of wealth and life and fruits. But give good news to the steadfast: Those who, when disaster strikes them, say, ‘We belong to Allāh and to Him we will return.’ Those are the people who will have blessings and mercy from their Lord; they are the ones who are guided.” (2:155-157) All communities are likewise affected by tests of this nature. Shootings at the hands of extremists are sadly commonplace in the world, harming Muslims and non-Muslims. Each and every community has borne a share of this pain. It is, however Allah’s blessing on us that we enjoy comforting hopes of immense rewards and compensation in the hereafter we believe in, something many other communities may not internalise. As Allah says: “…If you feel pain, they too are feeling it just as you are, but you hope for something from Allah which they cannot hope for. Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.” (4:104) New Zealand’s victims were killed in the Masjid, the most beloved place to Allah, on a Friday (Jumu’ah), the most beloved day to Allah, during the Salah beloved to Allāh. May Allah shower them with His immense mercy and elevate their status in Jannah. We also ask Him to give them the best recompense for their families and loved ones. 2. Islamophobia is not new The first point to note is as the Australian Federation of Islamic Councils elucidated precisely, moments after the event: “This massacre today is the product of the ever-increasing Islamophobia and marginalisation of Muslims and is a reminder to all concerned, including political leaders and media commentators, of the horrific consequences that an atmosphere of hate and division can lead to.” Those same white supremacist structures and trends have for decades forced the international community to scapegoat and focus on so-called “Islamic extremism” as a fosterer of terrorism. Countless programmes, schemes, curriculums, conventions and even large-scale military operations have been conducted on the back of this current iteration of the ancient Orientalist myth. Is there an equivalent amount of focus on the driving forces of terrorism committed against Muslims internationally, despite being on the receiving end of most terrorism? Are such anti-Muslim atmospheres and catalysts being criminalised in the same way? Clearly not. 3. We fear only Allah Despite the first point above, we should not allow fear to penetrate our hearts and reside therein. Such fear is of the worst enemies of man and is a sensation that can destroy them even before anything transpires. Apart from natural, temporary fear, we as Muslims should strive to drive out every other fear existing in our hearts save that for Allah the Almighty: “Those to whom people said, ‘The people have gathered against you, so fear them.’ But that merely increased their Iman and they said, ‘Allāh is enough for us and the Best of Guardians.’” (3:173) We should never allow our emotions to take control of our reactions. On the one hand, we should not behave as if we were anticipating such events in order to continue mourning. Some Muslims treat mourning as an objective and presume that the more we mourn, the better and this absolutely wrong. 4. They are not all the same We should not presume, that all white non-Muslims approve of or celebrate this crime, or allow our words or reactions to emit such an assumption. Yes, there are indeed white supremacists, Christian extremists, Neo-Nazis and others today who hold considerable jealousy and ancient hatred for Islam and Muslims, that has precipitated in acts and policies of barbarism for hundreds of years. But just as there is a long tradition of hatred of Islam and Muslims in western Europe, there have also been a number of enlightened thinkers, policy makers and average citizens who opposed this shameful history, who are neutral (if not warm to Islam) and desire justice for all—including Muslims. In the Qur’an, Allah confirms this diversity and cultivates in us this lens of justice when forming our presumptions about members of wider society: “And among the People of the Scripture is he who, if you entrust him with a great amount [of wealth], he will return it to you. And among them is he who, if you entrust him with a [single] silver coin, he will not return it to you unless you are constantly standing over him [demanding it]. That is because they say, “There is no blame upon us concerning the unlearned.” They tell a lie against Allah while they know [it].” (3:75) 5. Now is the time to reach out We should utilise this challenge as an opportunity to give Da’wah to non-Muslims. Many are now sympathising with Muslims, others want to know more about Islam; why we gather for sermons and Allah’s worship on Fridays, why we are calling those killed ‘martyrs’ and why we strengthen one another as to their going to a ‘better destination’ despite the grave worldly losses. Now is the opportune time to address this curiosity. We ask Allah to forgive us and those who preceded us in faith and to shower his mercy and forgiveness on the victims of this horrific atrocity and all of those killed unjustly around the world. Ameen. https://jamiat.org.za/new-zealand-attack-7-things-muslims-must-know/ Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

Wa'alaykumus salaam warahmatullah dear sister Safiyah In order to help you insha-allah we will need your habits in menstruation and the purity between menstruation. Do you have a record of the dates before the problem started? If you do then let us know and we will contact you

Yes one day is 24 hours so from Monday 6pm to Tuesday 6 pm is one day and yes exact amount should be noted

Keeping a record of your menstrual cycle is absolutely essential because many rulings depend on it. It is extremely important to keep a record of the exact time and date when bleeding begins and stops. In cases where habits become irregular and problems arise, it is keeping a record which saves a woman from unnecessary hardship of rulings such as having to perform a Ghusl for every Salaah. A simple calendar can be quite sufficient though nowadays it is quite easy to keep a record with various apps which are easily available. Attached are different types of charts you can print out. Yearly Menstruation Record Chart.docx Menstruation Recording Chart.docx

Part Forty Seven ‘Uthmaan bin Mawhab (rahimahullah) narrates the following: On one occasion, a person from Egypt arrived in Makkah Mukarramah and performed haj. While in Makkah Mukaaramah, he saw a group of people seated and asked, “Who are these people?” They replied, “These are the Quraish.” He then asked, “Who is the most learned amongst them?” They replied, “The most learned among them is Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma).” The Egyptian man thus addressed Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) saying, “O Ibnu ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma)! I wish to ask you regarding something, so please answer my questions.” The man thereafter commenced asking his questions. He asked, “Do you know that Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) fled during the Battle of Uhud?” Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) replied, “Yes.” The man next asked, “Do you know that Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was absent during the Battle of Badr?” Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) replied, “Yes.” Finally, the man asked, “Do you know that Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was absent during the Bay‘ah of Ridwaan and did not participate in it?” Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) replied, “Yes.” As this Egyptian was biased against Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) and had ill feelings for him, he exclaimed, “Allahu Akbar!” in happiness, thinking that Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) supported the stance that he held against Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu). Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) then said to him, “Come, let me explain to you the reality of what you are asking about.” Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) then explained: As for Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) fleeing during the Battle of Uhud, I bear witness that Allah Ta‘ala pardoned him and forgave him, together with the other Sahaabah (radhiyallahu ‘anhum) that fled during the Battle of Uhud (as Allah Ta‘ala declared forgiveness in the Qur’aan Majeed for all those who fled during the Battle of Uhud). As for Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) not participating in the Battle of Badr, then the reason is that he was married to the respected daughter of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) and she was ill. Hence, Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) remained behind on the instruction of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) so that he could attend to her and nurse her. Thus Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) said to him, “You will receive the reward of the one who participated in Badr and you will also receive a share in the booty.” As for Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) being absent during the Bay‘ah of Ridwaan, then the reason is that there was no person who was more honored in the sight of the people of Makkah Mukarramah then Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu). Hence, Rasululah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) sent him to speak to the people of Makkah (and inform them that the Muslims had only come to perform ‘umrah and had not come to fight). Had anyone been more honored than Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) would have sent that person instead of him. The Bay‘ah of Ridwaan only took place after Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) went to Makkah on the instruction of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) (as the rumor had spread that the people of Makkah had killed Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu)). Since Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) was not present for the bay‘ah, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) gestured with his own blessed right hand saying, “This is the hand of Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu).” Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) then placed his blessed right hand on his left hand and pledged allegiance on behalf of Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu). Hazrat ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhuma) then addressed the man and said, “Go, and take these answers to your objections against Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) so that you do not harbor ill feelings against him.” (Saheeh Bukhaari #3698)

Part Forty Six According to some narrations, before Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) commenced dictating the letter, he said to Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), “Give me mashura and advise me regarding who I should appoint as the Khalifah, for by Allah, in my sight, you are also worthy of the position of Khilaafah.” Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) replied, “I will write the name of Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu)” and he then commenced writing the letter. However, when he reached the point where the name of Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) had to be written, Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) fell unconscious. Since, Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) knew that Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) wanted Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) to be the next Khalifah, he wrote his name. Thereafter, when Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) regained consciousness, he specified, “Write the name of Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu).” (Hayaatus Sahaabah 2/ 31-33)

Bursting the Bubble As exhausted as she was, she put in the extra effort. “Never mind if I’m tired, I’ll do it for my hubby,” she thought to herself. She wore attractive clothing and jewellery, applied perfume, prepared his favourite meal and dessert and even lit candles, hoping to please her husband by making it a ‘special evening’. Sadly, as soon as he entered, let alone appreciate and admire, and let alone a simple smile and a hug – he didn’t even spare her a second glance! He walked in, glued to his phone, absolutely oblivious to the loving wife who had eagerly awaited him all day. At that moment, her bubble burst and her heart was broken… After reading the above, most people would be quick to condemn the husband’s behaviour and classify him as insensitive, callous and uncaring. Now, consider the following: “Mummy! You know what aapa told us today?” Faatimah excitedly exclaimed as she ran in from madrasah. “Not now Faatimah! I’m busy!” her mother snapped while frantically typing on her phone. “Daddy! See what I made for you with my blocks!” Muhammad said, hopping with happiness. “Can’t you see that I’m on the phone?” his father scolded in irritation. In all the cases above, a person turned to someone that they love, hoping and expecting to receive warmth, love, attention and acceptance, and were instead brushed off abruptly and painfully ignored. Just as a wife feels hurt when her husband treats her indifferently, children similarly feel hurt when their parents treat them in this way. If the husband is guilty, the parents are also guilty and deserving of condemnation. In such a child’s eyes, his parents love their phones more than him as they cannot even put it down for a few minutes to give him attention and love. When the child sees that his parents have bonded with their phones more than with him, it is unsurprising that he develops a fascination with the phone and also wishes to acquire one to bond with. If it is not the phone occupying the parents, then regardless of what it is, it causes hurt and pain to the child – especially when it happens on a continuous basis. As fathers and mothers, we need to understand that parenting is not an eight-to-five occupation where we can knock off for the day, thereafter ignoring all responsibilities of the work place until the next morning. As parents, we can never feel, “I gave my children enough attention today, now it’s my turn to relax and I do not want them to disturb me or bother me.” We are on duty 24/7, and whenever our children come to us, we must show them warmth, love and attention. Failing to do so creates a serious complex in the child, affecting their emotional wellbeing and causing them to develop a dangerous craving for attention. When the wife is displeased with her husband for ignoring her, then due to her intelligence and age, she will be able to express herself with words or even tears. In the case of the child, he does not know how to communicate his need via words. Instead, when he desperately craves the attention and love of his parents, he looks for other ways to gain it – or he will seek the love from outsiders. Children are simple souls and do not understand diplomacy and tact. If a child wants a toy from another child, he will often snatch it without thinking twice. Likewise, when the parents do not give the child the attention that he wants, he tries to ‘snatch’ it from them. This often manifests in the form of naughty behaviour such as breaking things, tantrums, etc., as the child knows no other way to draw his parents’ attention. How sad that the child has to resort to this behaviour simply to make his parents look at him! Unfortunately, this plan backfires. The child is given attention – but in the form of scolding, punishment, etc. and this further entrenches the complex and craving within the child. The parents then lament and complain about the behaviour of their children, failing to realise that it is actually a shout for help from a child who is starving for love and knows no other way to express himself. The next time our child comes to us, even if it may be to show us a flower they picked in the garden, or a ‘picture’ that they scribbled with crayons, or to tell us something silly that their friend told them, or to show us their toy, let us not burst their bubble and break their hearts. Let us take out a few moments to give them our undivided love and attention. uswatulmuslimah

Understanding Tazkiyah By Shaykh-ul-Hadīth, Hadrat Mawlānā Muhammad Saleem Dhorat hafizahullāh The Four Parts of Dīn The sole objective of our lives is to acquire the Pleasure of Allāh ta‘ālā, which can only be achieved by following the whole Dīn. The whole Dīn can be categorised into four parts: 1. External actions, which comprise of: a. Performing good actions e.g. Salāh; b. Refraining from sinful actions e.g. backbiting. 2. Internal qualities, which comprise of: a. Purifying the heart from debasing qualities e.g. pride; b. Adorning the heart with praiseworthy traits e.g. humbleness. Allāh ta‘ālā has laid down commands relating to both the external and the internal aspects of Dīn. In both, there are Do’s and Don’ts. For example, performing Salāh, giving Zakāh, fasting and performing Hajj are external actions which must be carried out; whilst causing physical harm, stealing and consuming harām are external actions which must be avoided. Similarly, jealousy, malice and pride are debasing qualities of the heart which are prohibited; whilst Shukr (being grateful to Allāh ta‘ālā) and Sabr (patience) and humbleness are praiseworthy qualities with which every Muslim should strive to adorn his heart. We can therefore conclude that our duties as Muslims are: to carry out good actions; to refrain from sinful actions; to purify the heart from debasing qualities; and to adorn the heart with praiseworthy qualities. All four are termed as Al-A‘māl As-Sālihah (good deeds) and our success lies in carrying them out. Allāh ta‘ālā states: Verily those who believe and do good deeds, for them shall be gardens beneath which rivers flow. That is the great success. (85:11) Tazkiyah and its Importance The process of removing the debasing qualities from the heart and adorning it with the praiseworthy qualities is known as Tazkiyah (soul purification). Through Tazkiyah a person first begins to recognise the shortcomings in his inner traits, such as the existence of pride and miserliness. As a result, he is able to exert effort and replace them with praiseworthy qualities such as humbleness and generosity. Allāh ta‘ālā has emphasised the importance of Tazkiyah in the Glorious Qur’ān by taking oath of seven different things before stating: Undoubtedly, the one who purified it (the soul) has succeeded and the one who soiled it (through kufr, shirk, sin) has certainly failed. (91:9-10) ‘Ilm and Tazkiyah In order to understand the Commands of Allāh ta‘ālā and to carry them out, it is necessary to acquire ‘ilm. Through ‘ilm, we will be able to understand what we are required to do in every situation. Regarding the external actions for example, ‘ilm is required to understand the pre-requisites of Salāh as well as all the necessary aspects within Salāh. Similar is the case for the inner qualities; a person will require ‘ilm to understand which qualities are prohibited and the consequences of having such qualities. For example, our beloved Nabī sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam has informed us that a person with pride equivalent to a mustard seed in his heart will not enter Jannah (without first going in Jahannam). (Abū Dāwūd, At-Tirmidhī, Ibn Mājah). However, without Tazkiyah ‘ilm is not beneficial, as we find that a person has ‘ilm but is unable to practice according to it despite having the desire to do so. For example, a person is aware that offering Fajr Salāh is compulsory, but is unable to leave his bed and go to the masjid. Similarly, despite being aware that sinful glances are not permissible, he is unable to control the gaze from lustful glances. The reason for this is a lack of spiritual stamina to carry out the Commands of Allāh ta‘ālā. Through the process of Tazkiyah, a person purifies his heart from debasing qualities and as a result gains the spiritual stamina required to fulfil all the external actions Commands of Allāh ta‘ālā. External Actions Hold No Value without Tazkiyah Another important point to understand is that without purifying the heart, despite carrying out the external actions of Dīn, they may not be accepted in the Court of Allāh ta‘ālā. This is because a corrupt heart could lead to a person performing deeds with the wrong intention. For example, if a person performs a good action with the intention of acquiring fame, he will gain no reward whatsoever, rather he will be answerable in the Court of Allāh ta‘ālā. Even though outwardly his action may appear perfect and in accordance with the Commands of Allāh ta‘ālā and the Sunnah of Nabī sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam, due to his insincerity his action will yield no benefit. The importance of a purified heart has been explained by Nabī sallallāhu ‘alayhi wasallam in a hadīth: Indeed there is a piece of flesh in the body; if it is sound, then the whole body will be sound and if it is corrupt then the whole body will be corrupt. Indeed it is the heart. (Al-Bukhārī) Tazkiyah: The Key to Practising the Whole Dīn From the above, it is clear that Tazkiyah is the path that leads to the reformation of the heart, providing the spiritual stamina required for external actions; and making them perfect and worthy of acceptance. Having understood the importance of Tazkiyah, the question arises as to how it can be achieved. For this, read and study ‘The Path to Purification’, published by At-Tazkiyah. Let us recognise the importance of Tazkiyah and exert effort towards its acquisition, so that we may practice the whole Dīn and acquire the eternal bliss of the Hereafter. © Riyādul Jannah (Vol. 26 No. 11/12, Nov/Dec 2017) Islamic Da'wah Academy

Part Forty Five Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) then called Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) in private and gave him certain advices. Thereafter, when Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) left the room, Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) raised his hands high and made the following du‘aa: O Allah! I only intended the good and benefit of the ummah in appointing Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu). I fear that if I do not appoint the correct person, the people will fall into fitnah after my demise, and hence I have decided that which I felt was most appropriate, but You know best. After pondering deeply over the matter, I have appointed over them the one whom I felt was the best among them, the most capable of leading the people, and the most desirous for that which will ensure their guidance and goodness. I am now beset by Your command of death which has come to me, so You see to their affairs after me, as they are Your slaves and their forelocks are in Your control. I beseech You to decide that which is the best for them in appointing their Khalifah after me. Make Hazrat ‘Umar (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) be among the Khulafaa-e-Raashideen (rightly guided Khalifas) who will follow the blessed way and example of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), the Nabi of mercy, and the way of all the righteous servants whose positions come after the position of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) (from the Ambiyaa (‘alaihimus salaam)) after him, and make his subjects righteous and obedient to him. (Hayaatus Sahaabah 2/ 31-33)

A Friend Indeed “Don’t talk about a person. Enquire about his companions.” (Arabic Proverb) This simply means that if you want to enquire about a person — about his character, what are his habits, is he responsible, etc., then do not enquire specifically about him. Instead, enquire about the company he keeps. If he keeps good company, Insha-Allah he will likewise be a good and upright person. On the contrary if he remains in the company of people accustomed to sin and vice or people of low character and morals, he will generally be judged accordingly. Musk Seller Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) emphasized upon us to always maintain good company. He is reported to have said, “A person follows the way of his friend, therefore beware of who you befriend!” (Sunan Abi Dawood #4833) In another hadeeth, a good friend has been likened to one who sells musk. One will either receive some musk from him as a gift, or buy it from him or at least one will enjoy the fragrance of musk by merely being in his company. In other words one can only benefit from him. The bad friend has been compared to a blacksmith. He will either burn your clothes due to the sparks and embers flying out of his furnace, or at the least one will breathe the toxic fumes. (Saheeh Bukhaari #2101) Thus one will not be able to escape the harm of being in his company. Merely being in the company of the bad friend will leave its negative effects on one. Friend in Need Another common saying is, “A friend in need is a friend indeed.” Supposing you are stranded on a journey and want to reach home. A friend comes and offers you a lift. He then leaves you at the door of your house. Indeed he will be regarded as a true friend. However, if he gave you a lift and dropped you off at the door of your enemy, you will be extremely disappointed and regard his claims of friendship as false. We are all presently on a journey in this world. Our greatest need is to safely reach our home which is Jannah. The person who assists us to travel on the Straight Path and guides us to our home is our true friend. The one who gives us a lift to the vice dens, encourages us to commit sins and ‘helps’ us to engage in vice is dropping us of at the door of our worst enemy. Such a ‘friend’ is either totally ignorant — that he is destroying his friend and thinking that he is doing him a favour — or he is a wolf in sheep’s clothing! He merely pretends to be a friend but is a hidden enemy. Friendship is also a two-way street. While you should choose the right friends, also be a true friend. In the guise of friendship do not push people towards the destruction of this world and the Hereafter by encouraging towards evil or passing on bad habits. Nevertheless choose your friends carefully. A friend will either make you… or break you! alhaadi

How Should a Woman Sit and Prostrate in Prayer? Answered by Ustadha Naielah Ackbarali Question: In the ”Absolute Essentials of Islam” it’s written that women should have their hands at shoulder level in prostration and keep their forearms on the ground. Yet when I attempted to practice this, I found that I could not keep my forearms on the ground without having my hands at head-level, like men. Can you explain this and the way women should perform prostration? Can you also describe the exact sitting position women should be in, please. Answer: Assalamu alaykum wa rahmatullahi wa baraktuhu The basis of the woman’s prayer in the Hanafi madhhab is that it follows the same rulings as the man’s prayer, and any differences between the two return to the principle of what is most concealing and modest for her. [Ibn `Abidin, Radd al Muhtar] In prostration, it is sunna for a woman to draw all of her limbs closely together in order to achieve maximum modesty. Her abdomen rests on top of her thighs and her upper-arms remain closely at her sides while her forearms lay on the floor. [Radd al- Muhtar; Shurunbulali, Maraqi al-Falah] It is sunna for men to prostrate in-between their hands, and their hands are placed at the level of the ears like the opening takbir. So far, I have not found a specific text that indicates that a woman does differently but I am still researching this matter. Yet, it should be noted that the placement of the hands do not affect the validity of the prayer and it is permissible to place one’s hands at the head level while prostrating as long as the ideals of modesty and concealment are upheld. In regards to her toes, it is obligatory for a part of the toes to touch the ground while in prostration in order for the prayer to be considered valid. Shaykh Faraz Rabbani has mentioned that it is not a specific sunna for women to keep their toes upright but there is no harm in doing so during prostration. While sitting for tashahud, she sits in the tawarruk position, which means that she sits on her left buttock with her knees bent and both legs are conveniently positioned to the right side of her body. In Maraqi Falah, al-Hadiyya al-Alaiyya, and Imdad al Fatah, the authors mention that the thigh is placed on top of the other thigh while her leg rests underneath her right hip. In Majma al-Anhar, the author explains further and says that “…she sits on her left buttock and positions both legs to the right side of her body because this is most concealing for her, and she brings together both of her thighs and places her right leg on top of her left leg.” In terms of additional information, the great Hanafi jurist Ibn Abdin notes the differences found within the woman’s prayer in Radd al-Muhtar. I have translated the majority of the details from his list while also adding extra explanations from sources like al-Hadiyya al-Alaiyya, Maraqi al-Falah and Imdad al-Fatah. 1.) When performing the opening takbir, she raises her hands to the level of her shoulders, while men raise their hands to the level of their ears. 2.) When performing the opening takbir, she does not withdraw her hands from underneath her sleeves because it may expose her forearms which are awrah (nakedness), while men should remove their hands from underneath their shawls. 3.) When standing, she places her right inner-palm on top of her left hand and rests them on her chest without clasping them, while men place their hands below their navels and clasp them together. 4.) When bowing, she bends her back slightly so that she touches her knees but she does not straighten her back fully, unlike men who completely align their limbs. 5.) When bowing, she does not spread her fingers apart but rather she keeps them closed together, unlike men who keep their fingers outspread. 6.) When bowing, she places her palms upon her knees and does not grasp her knees, unlike men who grasp their knees. 7.) When bowing, she bends her knees, unlike men who keep their knees straightened. 8.) When bowing and prostrating, she keeps her upper arms (the area from the shoulder to the elbow) as close as possible to the sides of her body, unlike men who distance their upper arms from their bodies. 9.) When prostrating, she rests her forearms on the ground, unlike men who keep their arms raised above the ground. 10.) She does not keep her toes upright like men. 11.) While sitting for tashahud, she sits in the tawarrak position (explained above) and she places her hands on top of her thighs such that the tips of her fingers reach her knees. 12.) While sitting for tashahud, she does not spread her fingers apart but rather she keeps them closed together, unlike men who keep their fingers outspread. 13.) If the Imam forgets something in his prayer, she claps without excessive movement instead of saying ‘SubHanAllah’ like men. 14.) She does not lead the man’s prayer. 15.) It is prohibitively disliked (e.g. sinful) for her to pray in a woman’s group prayer, to give the adhan, or to give the iqama. 16.) If she prays in a mixed congregation, she stands behind the men. 17.) She is not obligated to attend the Friday sermon prayer, but if she does and completes it, it counts as her Dhuhr prayer. 18.) It is not necessary (wajib) for her to attend the Eid prayer as opposed to men. 19.) It is not recommended for her to wait until the brightness of the sun to pray Fajr like it is for men performing the group prayer, but it is best for her to pray at the earliest part of the Fajr prayer time. 20.) She does not recite out loud in the non-silent prayers. Yet, it is important to note that if she is praying by herself in any prayer, she must recite at a level where she can hear herself in order for her prayers to be considered valid. While the majority of information found within this post was extracted from Arabic texts, I would recommend the following English resources for more details about this topic: ”The Salah of Women” by Madrasa Arabiya Islamia Azadville, South Africa ”Heavenly Ornaments’‘ by Maulana Muhammad Ashraf Ali Thanvi Barak Allah fikum Naielah Checked & Approved by Faraz Rabbani

The Wonderful Rewards of Tasbeeh-e-Fatimi Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem On one occasion, Hadhrat Hajee Farouk Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh), one of the senior Khulafa of Hadhrat Moulana Maseehullah (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh), visited us in Azaadville. During the time that he spent with us, he presented the value of Tasbeeh-e-Fatimi in a very unique manner. Hadhrat (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) explained that if a person enjoys gardening and appreciates the diversity of plants and trees, and if he travels in the world and comes across a beautiful, exotic tree or plant, he desires for it to be in his garden. He wants to enjoy its beauty and its fruit, in his own garden. However, to take it back to his country, will require special arrangements to be made. Governments have strict regulations in respect to importing and exporting, and these will have to be fulfilled. Moreover, he will have to consider whether the environment and climate of his country will be conducive and suitable. It may be that the plant is taken back home, but it does not survive due to the climate or due to other factors. If sustainable and feasible, he goes about making preparations to purchase it and bring it back to his country. Since the plant will be imported, he will have to abide by the regulations and protocol of the country, to import such plants. If he acquires the permit or licence, he will have to make arrangements for it to be transported and delivered in a suitable manner – because plants are sensitive and can easily wither away and die, if they are not packaged properly and not cared for. When he does receive it, he will have to plant it and look after it – according to its specifications. He will have to water it, add fertilizer to it, and will have to take care that it is not damaged or destroyed. The seasons bring different weather conditions, so more care is required. He will be cautious that children do not damage the plant while they play, and animals and insects don’t harm or destroy the plant. …So much of effort is made for one plant or tree of this world. …Furthermore, each tree takes time to grow and bear its fruit – years pass in the growth of a tree. In the process, the person may leave this world and not see it thrive and produce fruit. Even if he lives to enjoy the shade, the flowers and the fruit, it will only be a period of time. THE TREES OF JANNAH The Hadith speaks of trees in Jannah which surpass the trees of this world, in every way. Hadhrat Abu Hurayrah (Radiyallahu’anhu) reported that Rasulullah (Sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “…Say: Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, La ilaaha illallaah or Allahu Akbar, one tree will be planted for you in Jannah, for each of these.”[1] For each glorification of Allah Ta’ala, a tree is immediately planted in Jannah. There are no regulations, no costs, no transport arrangements required, etc. And these trees will not die. They are permanent … and we too will be living eternally in Jannah, Insha-Allah. May Allah Ta’ala make it such that we enter Jannah and also enjoy the beauty of the trees of Jannah. In reading the Tasbeeh-e-Fatima, which comprises of 33 times Subhanallah, 33 times Alhamdulillah and 34 times Allahu Akbar, we will be planting 100 trees. The effort to recite is small; the returns are very big. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) described a tree of Jannah: "There is a tree in Jannah (that is so big and huge) that if a rider travels in its shade for one hundred years, he would not be able to cross it."[2] In another Hadith, Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “There is no tree in Jannah that does not have a trunk of gold.”[3] Hadhrat ‘Abdullah ibn Mas’ood (Radiyallahu’anhu) reported that Rasulullah (Sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “I met Nabi Ibraheem (‘alaihis salaam) when I was taken on Mi’raj (ascension to the heavens) and he told me: “O Muhammad, convey my Salaam (greetings) to your Ummah and tell them that Jannah has good soil and sweet water, but it is barren. The plantation of Jannah is (the recitation of) Subhanallah, Alhamdulillah, La ilaaha illallaah and Allahu Akbar.”[4] Alhamdulillah, for many, it is a practice to read Tasbeeh-e-Fatimi and engage in Zikrullah after the Fajr and Asr Salaah. These are Mubarak (blessed) times. These are also the times when people enjoy sitting or working in their gardens – so, in that same time, prepare for the real gardens of Aakhirah! Hadhrat Shaikhul Hadith, Maulana Muhammad Zakariyyah (Rahmatullahi ‘Alayh) had said that we should be conscious in undertaking all our A’maaal; thinking over the rewards, profits and the ‘harvest’ that will follow in Jannah. In this instance, we should think that we have planted one hundred magnificent trees in Jannah. Daily, we should contemplate over what we have earned and acquired of Aakhirah, by way of our actions. If a businessman pulls off a big deal and he secures prime property, etc. then in his opinion, this is a great accomplishment; this is success. He is extremely happy. However, all is ‘Faani’ – all is perishable. Nothing of Dunya is made to last. Whereas, the Zikr of Allah Ta’ala is acquiring and building our Jannah, which is forever… which is made to last. Of course, the Niyyah must be right, the Amal must be right and we should ask Allah Ta’ala to accept from us. The same focus and motivation should be brought in, when practising upon the various Sunnats. We should consider that each Sunnah brings the reward of 100 martyrs. Who does not want to multiply his honour by living his entire life according to the beautiful Sunnah? …Where there are people trying to demolish the Sunnah, we should revive it, appreciate it, cherish it and live it. BUILDING YAQEEN There is an incident of a Muslim woman who visited her friend. Whilst they were talking, her 3 year old child came and began to tug at the mother’s garment, saying: “Mummy, we have not built our palace in Jannah today!” Thereafter, her other young children, came to her and they too began to say the same – that they had not built their palaces in Jannah. The sister, who was visiting, expressed her surprise and asked what was meant by the children’s statements. So, the mother sat with her children and they recited Surah Al-Ikhlaas ten times and she explained to her friend, that the Hadith states that the recitation of Surah Al-Ikhlaas 10 times secures a palace in Jannah. The children then expressed their desire to fill up their Jannah with treasures, and they began to recite ‘La Haula wala Quwwata Illah Billah’ … since the Hadith mentions that this is a treasure of Jannah. When the mother asked the children what should be read if they want a drink of Kauthar from Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam), they all eagerly began to recite Durood Sharief. …Allahu Akbar. How enviable, when contemplating the vastness and loftiness of such a Jannah, which is being upgraded daily from such early years. This intelligent mother was fostering Yaqeen (conviction) in the Aakhirah, within the hearts and minds of her little children. We cannot truly imagine what would be achieved and what success will be enjoyed by these children, when their focus and effort is on Aakhirah, Jannah and preparing for Jannah. Allah Ta’ala grant us that kind of enthusiasm as well. Aameen. THE LAND OF DUNYA AND THE LAND OF JANNAH When we purchase a plot of land in this world; it is a fixed area in hectares or acres or square metres. By building a house and adding other amenities, the land does not expand or increase; it remains the same. The land of Jannah is such, that the more Zikrullah we engage in, the more good we do, the more the land increases and the more the land is developed by way of magnificent trees, palaces, rivers and so forth. As mentioned, Jannah is barren land, and it through our A’maal, that these bounties of Jannah are achieved and our plot of Jannah increases and expands. If a person recites the Tasbeeh-e-Fatimi after Fajr and Asr and before sleeping, so he has increased his Jannah with 300 more trees. And if he recites it after every Salaah and before he sleeps, so he has increased his plot of Jannah with 600 trees. If he does so daily, then for every passing week, he has increased his plot of Jannah by 4200 trees! Alhamdulillah, this was discussed in Westville, KZN, on one of our visits, and thereafter a friend mentioned that he approached a brother after Salaah, and he indicated that he should wait a little. After a short time, he explained that he was busy planting his trees in Jannah, with the recitation of Tasbeeh-e-Fatimi, and he had wanted to complete that first. Alhamdulillah. Allah Ta’ala’s Grace. HADHRAT FATIMA (RADHIYALLAHU ‘ANHA) Hadhrat Fatima (Radhiyallahu ‘anha) is described as the queen of the women of Jannah. Despite her lofty rank, she would carry out all the household chores by herself. She would draw water from the well to carry it home and grind the barley in the millstone. Due to these tasks, she developed blisters on her hand. On one occasion, Hadhrat ‘Ali (Radhiyallahu anhu) informed her that some slaves have arrived from the spoils of war and she should request a maid slave from her father, to assist her in the household chores. She thus went to Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) but such was her shame, that she could not ask her own father, and went back home. Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) was informed of Hadhrat Faatima’s (Radhiyallahu ‘anha) visit and went to her home to find out the reason. …From here, we learn the kind of relationship that should be found between parents and children, and the concern parents should have for their children. Unfortunately, today there is widespread neglect and we leave our children in the ‘care’ of the television, i-pad, X-box, PS4, etc. We are clueless to what is happening in their lives, and they don’t disclose anything to us because they find us too busy to give them any special time. Nevertheless, Hadhrat Fatima presented her request to her father. Rasulullah (Sallallahu alayhi wasallam) replied: “Shall I not show you something better than what you asked for? When you retire to your bed, recite Subhanallah 33 times, Alhamdulillah 33 times and Allahu-Akbar 34 times. This is better for you than a servant.”[5] This is what is known as Tasbeeh-e-Faatimi. Who does not want better? If someone offers us better than what we want or have, how keen we would be. Whilst it is permissible to have a maid to help at home, our reasons today are generally because our womenfolk want to go gyming, want to socialise, etc. However, by doing one’s own chores at home, a woman will, InshaAllah, maintain her fitness levels. We learn from this Hadith that our physical strength also comes from Zikrullah and other Azkaar, such as Durood Shareef and Istighfaar. Zikrullah gives us energy and strength. …We buy all kinds of energy-boosters, but this is an energy-booster which is unparalleled in its benefits. Similarly, the Qaylulah gives the physical body rest and rejuvenation. …Nowadays, we say that we are exhausted and fatigued and need to go to a resort to rest, whereas the solutions to our problems are to be found in the Qur'aan Shareef, the beautiful Sunnah and in the Zikr of Allah Ta’ala. MEANING AND BENEFIT We should not rush when engaged in any Zikr. Keep in mind, the meaning and benefit. “Subhanallah” means that Allah Ta’ala is Pure. When a person says: “Subhanallah”, the person is acknowledging and proclaiming Allah Ta’ala’s Purity; that Allah Ta’ala is free from any blemish or defect. In this, there is also an acknowledgement, that we are impure. We have so many weaknesses and defects. Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘Alayh) had said that when we glorify Allah Ta’ala thus, Allah Ta’ala, in return, will purify us. …Many Mashaa’ikh instruct that females read 300 times "SubhanAllah". Just on this Tasbeeh, a person will achieve Tazkiyah (purification). Allah Ta’ala will purify, and when Allah Ta’ala purifies, what will be the condition of such a heart! “Alhamdulillah” means that all praises belong to Allah Ta’ala. Allah Ta’ala is not in need of our praises. All praises are for Allah Ta’ala whether we praise Allah Ta’ala or not. Allah Ta’ala is the only one worthy of praise. In the Hamd of Allah Ta’ala, the heart is fully accepting Allah Ta’ala as He is. We should think and believe that only Allah Ta’ala is Owner of all the qualities of praise. We, ourselves are useless and have nothing. From Allah Ta’ala’s Side, and out of His Ihsaan and Karam, when a person praises Him, Allah Ta’ala creates circumstances whereby people praise the person in return. “Allahu-Akbar” means Allah Ta’ala is the greatest. Allah Ta’ala has all the qualities of greatness. Greatness is exclusive to Allah Ta’ala. When a person recognises and acknowledges Allah Ta’ala’s Greatness, Allah Ta’ala places honour into the hearts of the creation for the person who honours Him. Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar (Rahmatullahi ‘Alayh) had explained that this honour is not based on the desire of the nafs, but in the light of the Masnoon Dua: “O Allah, make me small (insignificant) in my own eyes, and make me great (significant) in the eyes of the people.” In our own hearts, we should see ourselves as insignificant and unimportant, but we ask Allah Ta’ala to grant respect and honour in the hearts of people. What outwardly seems to be pride, has its antidote and cure in the first part of the Dua: O Allah, make me small (insignificant) in my own eyes. Respect is necessary to establish order, peace and stability. If there is no respect, there will be complete upheaval in our homes, schools, Masaajid, etc. If no respect is shown to the parents, Ustaadh, Imaam and other seniors, then there will be disorder, turmoil and chaos. And this is what we do see, in these times. Due to a lack of respect and Adab, there is disturbance and disruption in every system. Going back a few decades, cleaning floors or cars, required washing, polishing and shining. Different products would be used. Nowadays, products are formulated which do all three in one. These products are marketed as 3-in-1, 5-in-1, etc. Similarly, the Zikr of Allah Ta’ala has multiple benefits: Cleaning, polishing, and shining the heart. From the time of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam), we have had a 3-in-1 solution to the maintenance of the spiritual heart. "Subhanallah" cleans the heart; "Alhamdulillah" polishes the heart and "Allahu Akbar" shines the heart. Similarly, different Azkaar that are drawn from Ahadith do the same: clean, polish and shine. From another angle: Certain medicines require a prescription. They cannot be purchased over the counter. Allah Ta’ala has made His Zikr for the whole Ummah. No one requires permission to make Tasbeeh – to glorify and praise Allah Ta’ala. This opportunity is available for all. Despite the value being so great, we are found wanting in appreciation and in Amal. Allah Ta’ala has made His Zikr so easy. The Tasbeeh-e-Fatimi takes about a minute and requires no physical exertion or monetary expense. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the Taufeeq to practice. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the Azmat of Deen – Azmat for every aspect of Deen. Ameen! By Hadhrat Moulana Abdul Hamid Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum)

Can a woman travel alone without any relative? Question: AssalamuAlaikum. Mufti Saheb. There is a Hadith that a time will come that woman would travel from Sanaa to Hazramaut and she will not be harmed. This Hadith indicates that when such a time comes then it will be permissible for woman to travel alone. In today’s time Dctr Shabir Ally says that it is permissible and that Hadith that forbids is regarding such a time which they were scared. Can you please explain? Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. Hereunder is the Hadith referred to in the query. عَنْ خَبَّابِ بْنِ الأَرَتِّ قَالَ شكونا إلى رسول الله صلى الله عليه و سلم وهو متوسد بردة له في ظل الكعبة فقلنا ألا تستنصر لنا ألا تدعو لنا؟ فقال قد كان من قبلكم يؤخذ الرجل فيحفر له في الأرض فيجعل فيها فيجاء بالمنشار فيوضع على رأسه فيجعل نصفين ويمشط بأمشاط الحديد ما دون لحمه وعظمه فما يصده ذلك عن دينه والله ليتمن هذا الأمر حتى يسير الراكب من صنعاء إلى حضرموت لا يخاف إلا الله والذئب على غنمه ولكنكم تستعجلون. Translation: Khabbaab Bin Arit Radiallahu Anhu said: We complained to Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam (about our condition) while he was leaning against his sheet cloak in the shade of the Ka`ba. We said, Will you ask Allah to help us? Will you invoke Allah for us? He said, among those who were before you a (believer) used to be seized and, a pit used to be dug for him and then he used to be placed in it. Then a saw used to be brought and put on his head by which the head would split into two halves. His flesh might be combed with iron combs and removed from his bones, yet, all that did not cause him to revert from his religion. By Allah! This religion (Islam) will be completed (and triumph) till a rider (traveler) goes from San`a' (the capital of Yemen) to Hadramout fearing nobody except Allah and the wolf lest it should trouble his sheep, but you are impatient. Bukhari Take note the Hadith refers to a راكب (male traveller) and not a woman. However, there is another Hadith narrated by Adi bin Hatim Radiallahu Anhu in reference to a woman. Hereunder is the Hadith حَدَّثَنِى مُحَمَّدُ بْنُ الْحَكَمِ أَخْبَرَنَا النَّضْرُ أَخْبَرَنَا إِسْرَائِيلُ أَخْبَرَنَا سَعْدٌ الطَّائِىُّ أَخْبَرَنَا مُحِلُّ بْنُ خَلِيفَةَ عَنْ عَدِىِّ بْنِ حَاتِمٍ قَالَ بَيْنَا أَنَا عِنْدَ النَّبِىِّ - صلى الله عليه وسلم - إِذْ أَتَاهُ رَجُلٌ فَشَكَا إِلَيْهِ الْفَاقَةَ، ثُمَّ أَتَاهُ آخَرُ، فَشَكَا قَطْعَ السَّبِيلِ. فَقَالَ «يَا عَدِىُّ هَلْ رَأَيْتَ الْحِيرَةَ». قُلْتُ لَمْ أَرَهَا وَقَدْ أُنْبِئْتُ عَنْهَا. قَالَ «فَإِنْ طَالَتْ بِكَ حَيَاةٌ لَتَرَيَنَّ الظَّعِينَةَ تَرْتَحِلُ مِنَ الْحِيرَةِ، حَتَّى تَطُوفَ بِالْكَعْبَةِ، لاَ تَخَافُ أَحَدًا إِلاَّ اللَّهَ» Translation: Adi bin Hatim Radiallahu Anhu said: While I was in the city of the Prophet, a man came and complained to him (the Prophet, ) of destitution and poverty. Then another man came and complained of robbery (by highwaymen). Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam said, "Adi! Have you been to Al-Hira?" I said, "I haven't been to it, but I was informed about it." He said, "If you should live for a long time, you will certainly see that a lady in a Howdah traveling from Al-Hira will (safely reach Mecca and) perform the Tawaf of the Ka`ba, fearing none but Allah. Bukhari Here in this Hadith, the travel is from Heera to the Kaaba Shareef and not from Sanaa to Hadramaut. Deducing laws of Shariah directly from Ahadith is the function of the Mujtahideen like the four Imams of Fiqh, Imam Abu Hanifah, Imam Malik, Imam Shafee, Imam Ahmad Bin Hambal Rahimahullah. They were experts of the Qur’an and Ahadith and related sciences. It is incorrect for a non-Mujtahid, let aside a non Aalim to deduce laws of Shariah directly from the Qur’an and Ahadith as such a deduction will not be consistent with any principle and it will be riddled with many contradictions. If the Hadith meant that a woman could travel alone without a Mahram in safe times then there was no time that a woman was more protected and safe than the era of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam as the era of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam is described as خير القرون (the best of eras). Women were given respect, dignity and honor. They were liberated from all forms of domestic, social and economic injustices of the past. Women were announced equal to men in attaining virtuous deeds. إِنَّ الْمُسْلِمِينَ وَالْمُسْلِمَاتِ وَالْمُؤْمِنِينَ وَالْمُؤْمِنَاتِ وَالْقَانِتِينَ وَالْقَانِتَاتِ وَالصَّادِقِينَ وَالصَّادِقَاتِ وَالصَّابِرِينَ وَالصَّابِرَاتِ وَالْخَاشِعِينَ وَالْخَاشِعَاتِ وَالْمُتَصَدِّقِينَ وَالْمُتَصَدِّقَاتِ وَالصَّائِمِينَ وَالصَّائِمَاتِ وَالْحَافِظِينَ فُرُوجَهُمْ وَالْحَافِظَاتِ وَالذَّاكِرِينَ اللَّهَ كَثِيرًا وَالذَّاكِرَاتِ أَعَدَّ اللَّهُ لَهُمْ مَغْفِرَةً وَأَجْرًا عَظِيمًا. Translation: Indeed, the Muslim men and Muslim women, the believing men and believing women, the obedient men and obedient women, the truthful men and truthful women, the patient men and patient women, the humble men and humble women, the charitable men and charitable women, the fasting men and fasting women, the men who guard their private parts and the women who do so, and the men who remember Allah often and the women who do so - for them Allah has prepared forgiveness and a great reward. Surah Al-Ahzaaab verse 35 Despite such a pure and safe environment, Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam stated the following: عن نافع عن عبد الله بن عمر عن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم قال لا يحل لامرأة تؤمن بالله واليوم الآخر تسافر مسيرة ثلاث ليال الا ومعها ذو محرم. Translation: It is not permissible for a woman who believes in Allah and the Last Day to travel for the distance of three days except with a Dhu-Mahram (i.e. a male with whom she cannot marry at all, e.g. her brother, father, grandfather, etc.) or her own husband). Sahih Muslim قَالَ النَّبِيُّ صَلَّى اللهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ:لاَ تُسَافِرِ المَرْأَةُ إِلَّا مَعَ ذِي مَحْرَمٍ، وَلاَ يَدْخُلُ عَلَيْهَا رَجُلٌ إِلَّا وَمَعَهَا مَحْرَمٌ، فَقَالَ رَجُلٌ: يَا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ إِنِّي أُرِيدُ أَنْ أَخْرُجَ فِي جَيْشِ كَذَا وَكَذَا، وَامْرَأَتِي تُرِيدُ الحَجَّ، فَقَالَ: اخْرُجْ مَعَهَا. Translation: Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam said: It is not permissible for a woman who believes in Allah and the Last Day to travel except with a Mahram (unmarriageable kin), and no man may visit her except in the presence of a Dhu-Mahram. A man asked Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam: "O Messenger of Allah! My wife is going on Hajj (pilgrimage), while I want to participate in a battle, what should I do? Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wa Sallam said: "Go out with her. The most explicit evidence on this issue is the incident of Aisha Radiallahu Anha during Hajjatul Wida. Makkah Mukarramah was already conquered. It was the pure environment of the Haj of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam. The enemies of Islam were suppressed and the Islamic law was in full force. When Hazrat Aisha Radiallahu Anha wanted to perform Umra after Haj, Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam advised Hazrat Aisha’s brother Abdur Rahman to accompany her from Makkah to Tan’eem which is at the border of Haram. The distance between Tan’een and Haram is only about 5km. Hazrat Aisha Radiallahu Anha could have traveled by herself to Tan’eem as it was in the era of Islamic law and the Haj of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam. Hazrat Aisha could have traveled with other Sahabiyyaat to Tan’eem. Why did Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam specifically chose Abdur Rahmaan to accompany her? The answer is simple, Hazrat Aisha Radiallahu Anha was a Shar’ie Musaafir and she had to abide by the laws of Shariah of traveling with a Mahram. Any person who is correctly schooled in Hadith will not rely merely on an indication in the Hadith to deduce a ruling. There are two modes of expression of speech; • One is نص (the objective of the speech). • The other isظاهر (secondary to the objective of the speech). Whilst we consider the secondary points in Hadith, that should not be in conflict with the primary objective of the speech. In the two Ahadith stated in the beginning about safe travel, the primary objective of the speech is emphasis on safety and protection. This is illustrated with example of a rider traveling in one Hadith and woman traveling in another Hadith. It is incorrect to use this illustration of safety to deduce that a woman can travel alone in safe time as that is not the primary objective of the Hadith, especially when there are many Ahadith prohibiting women traveling alone without a Mahram. Furthermore, no Mujtahid has made such a deduction. Hereunder are the rulings of the four Imams of Madhabs on woman travelling alone. According to the Hanafi and Hambali schools of thought, it is not permissible for a woman to travel the distance of three days (equivalent to 48 miles) without her husband or a Mahram (unmarriageable kin) accompanying her. According to the Shafie school of thought, a woman is only permitted to travel with a Mahram or her husband or a group of women. According to the Maliki school of thought if a woman cannot find a Mahram to travel with her for a Wajib travel and she does not have a husband, then she is allowed to travel with a group of pious men or a group of pious women. As for non Wajib travel, the normal principle will apply as stated hereunder. أمّا سفر التّطوّع والمباح فلا يجوز لها الخروج فيه إلاّ مع محرمٍ أو زوجٍ . Translation: As for a voluntary and permissible travel, a woman is not permissible to travel except with a Mahram or a husband. Mausu’atul Fiqhiyyah Al-Kuwaitiyyah 304/23 It is incorrect to assume that the Hadith is referring to today’s time. Please consider the following reports about how unsafe it is for woman to travel alone. • The agency Eric Mower + Associates asked 400 U.S. women about their perceptions on safety when traveling alone. The results reveal that overall, women feel uncomfortable or unsafe traveling solo (although two out of three have done so). Furthermore, two in five women report that they have experienced sexual harassment while on the road alone. • FBI Special Agent David Rodski told reporters the number of sexual assaults during flights is increasing "at an alarming rate," and added, "We're not sure why." Last year, CNN reported it is difficult to determine just how frequently assaults happen on commercial flights because no federal regulatory agency tracks that data nationwide. The FBI doesn't have complete confidence in the official number of midair sexual assaults, because so many cases may go unreported, said Brian Nadeau, assistant special agent in charge with the Baltimore division of the FBI. Investigators believe the numbers are almost certainly much higher. The Association of Flight Attendants-CWA, one of the world's largest flight attendant unions, surveyed nearly 2,000 flight attendants in 2016 about their experiences with midair sexual assaults. Among those who responded, 1 out of 5 said they received a report of passenger-on-passenger sexual assault while working a flight. • Airlines are under pressure to provide separate women’s seating to combat the lecherous spread of male passengers over the dividing armrests, amid a surge in midair sexual assaults. And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Mahomed Yasser Yunus Hussen Student Darul Iftaa Mozambique Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai.