ummtaalib

WHAT IS THE REALITY BEHIND THE VERSES OF THE SWORD? Question: I always hear from the people who hate and attack Islam that all the verses in the Quran that have to do with peace (like 60:8) are abrogated by later verses (like 9:5). Is this true? And does this mean supposed Muslims from these groups can go out and start murdering people? How do we know that they are wrong? Answer: In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. The information in reference is incorrect. The verses of peace are permanently entrenched verses and not abrogated. The verses referring to war are specific and within a specific context. These verses do not override the verses of sanctity of life and human dignity and honour. [1] Regardless of the academic discussion on the verse, the position of Islam is straightforward and simple. Islam is a religion of peace and harmony. Islam does not encourage fighting, enmity and hatred. Rather Islam encourages love and affection. The word “Islam” in addition to meaning submission (to Allah) is derived from the Arabic word “Salam” (peace). The Muslims greet others by saying 'Salaam'. This is understood from the following incidents: The mother of Asma (Radhiallahu Anha) was a disbeliever. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu Alayhi Wasallam) commanded Asma (Radhiallahu Anha) to maintain ties with her mother. In the Quran, Allah Ta’āla speaks of the incident of Fir’own who was a tyrant ruler and he disliked Musa (Alayhis salaam) and his followers. Allah Ta’āla commanded Musa (Alayhis salaam) to invite Fir’own to his worship and advised him to address Fir’own in kind words, perhaps Fir’own may take heed. VERSES OF THE HOLY QUR’AAN COMMANDING GOOD TREATMENT OF DISBELIEVERS: 1.And have patience against what they (your enemies) say, and withdraw from them in a beautiful manner. (Surah 73, verse 10) 2. So overlook (their wrong-doings) with gracious forgiveness. (Surah 15,verse 85) 3.And do not debate with the People of the Book except in the best of manners; (Surah 29, verse 46) 4.Invite unto your Lord with wisdom and beautiful advice, and engage them in debate in a style that is best. (Surah 16, verse 125) 5.And be kind (to others) like Allah has been kind to you, and seek not mischief in the land; (Surah 28, verse 77) 6.And turn not your face from people in arrogance, nor walk on earth in insolence. Verily Allah does not love every arrogant boaster. (Surah 31, verse 18) 7.And Allah does not forbid you from being kind and just to those (disbelievers) who do not fight you with regards to Religion, nor evict you from your homes. Verily Allah loves those who are just. (Surah 60, verse 8) 8.And if they (The Pagans) desist (from fighting you) then there should be no transgression (against them), except against a people who are oppressors. (Surah 2, verse 193) 9.And if they (the enemy) incline towards peace then you too, incline towards the same. (Surah 8, verse 61) 10.And if any of the Disbelievers seeks refuge from you, then grant him refuge so that he can hear the Word of Allah, then escort him to a place where he is secure. The above are some of the many verses of the Qur’aan that instruct Muslims to be peaceful, loving and kind. Consider the following verse of the Qur’aan on the sanctity of life. Allah Taala says: مِنْ أَجْلِ ذلِكَ كَتَبْنا عَلى بَنِي إِسْرائِيلَ أَنَّهُ مَنْ قَتَلَ نَفْساً بِغَيْرِ نَفْسٍ أَوْ فَسادٍ فِي الْأَرْضِ فَكَأَنَّما قَتَلَ النَّاسَ جَمِيعاً وَمَنْ أَحْياها فَكَأَنَّما أَحْيَا النَّاسَ جَمِيعاً وَلَقَدْ جاءَتْهُمْ رُسُلُنا بِالْبَيِّناتِ ثُمَّ إِنَّ كَثِيراً مِنْهُمْ بَعْدَ ذلِكَ فِي الْأَرْضِ لَمُسْرِفُونَ Translation: Because of this (incident), we decreed (prescribed) for the Bani Israail that whoever kills another for a reason other than (executing a murder of) a soul or (other than executing someone who causes) corruption on the earth (such as those who ridicule the Ambiyaa), then it is as if he had killed all of mankind. Whoever preserves a life, it is as if he has preserved the lives of the entire mankind. Undoubtedly, our Rasool had come to them (to the Bani Israail) with clear signs (miracles). However, many of them overstepped (by oppression, transgression, violence) the limits on earth thereafter (by rejecting the Ambiyaa and even assassinating many of them.) (Surah Al-Maaidah, Aayah 32) And Allah Ta’āla Knows Best Muhammad IV Patel Student Darul Iftaa Lusaka, Zambia Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai. جلد 4 ص 310 معارف القران [1] پہلی جماعت جو قریش مکّہ کی تھی جنہوں نے میثاق حدیبیہ کو خود توڑ دیا تھا اب یہ کسی مزید مہلت کے مستحق نہ تھے مگر چونکے یہ زمانہ أشهرحرم کا زمانہ تھا جن میں جنگ و قتال منجانب الله ممنوع تھا اس لئے ان کے متعلق تو وو حکم آیا جو سوره توبہ کی پانچویں آیت میں مذکور ہے. فَإِذَا انسَلَخَ الأَشْهُرُ الْحُرُمُ فَاقْتُلُواْ الْمُشْرِكِينَ حَيْثُ وَجَدتُّمُوهُمْ وَخُذُوهُمْ وَاحْصُرُوهُمْ وَاقْعُدُواْ لَهُمْ كُلَّ مَرْصَدٍ فَإِن تَابُواْ وَأَقَامُواْ الصَّلاَةَ وَآتَوُاْ الزَّكَاةَ فَخَلُّواْ سَبِيلَهُمْ إِنَّ اللَّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ. جس کا حاصل یہ تھا کے ان لوگوں نے عہد شکنی کر کر اپنا کوئ حق باقی نہیں چوڑا مگر أشهرحرم کا احترام بہرحال ضروری ہے. اس لئے أشهرحرم ختم ہوتے ھی یا وو جزیرہ العرب سے نکل جاییں یا مسلمان ہو جاییں ورنہ ان سے جنگ کی جاییں گی. تفسير الطبري = جامع البيان ت شاكر (14/ 133) 16473- حدثنا بشر قال، حدثنا يزيد قال، حدثنا سعيد، عن قتادة قوله: (إلا الذين عاهدتم من المشركين ثم لم ينقصوكم شيئا ولم يظاهروا عليكم أحدا) ، الآية، قال: هم مشركو قريش، الذين عاهدهم رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم زمن الحديبية، وكان بقي من مدتهم أربعة أشهر بعد يوم النحر. فأمر الله نبيه أن يوفي لهم بعهدهم إلى مدتهم، ومن لا عهد له إلى انسلاخ المحرم، ونبذ إلى كل ذي عهد عهده، وأمره بقتالهم حتى يشهدوا أن لا إله إلا الله، وأن محمدًا رسول الله، وأن لا يقبل منهم إلا ذلك تفسير البيضاوي = أنوار التنزيل وأسرار التأويل (3/ 71) إِلَّا الَّذِينَ عاهَدْتُمْ مِنَ الْمُشْرِكِينَ استثناء من المشركين، أو استدراك فكأنه قيل لهم بعد أن أمروا بنبذ العهد إلى الناكثين ولكن الذين عاهدوا منهم. ثُمَّ لَمْ يَنْقُصُوكُمْ شَيْئاً من شروط العهد ولم ينكثوه أو لم يقتلوا منكم ولم يضروكم قط. وَلَمْ يُظاهِرُوا عَلَيْكُمْ أَحَداً من أعدائكم فَأَتِمُّوا إِلَيْهِمْ عَهْدَهُمْ إِلى مُدَّتِهِمْ إلى تمام مدتهم ولا تجروهم مجرى الناكثين. إِنَّ اللَّهَ يُحِبُّ الْمُتَّقِينَ تعليل وتنبيه على أن إتمام عهدهم من باب التقوى تفسیر عثمانی جلد 1ص 541 الإتقان في علوم القرآن

Who are The Blind Followers? Why is Taqlid necessary? This is a book by Shaykh Abu Usamah from South Africa. It covers several major unfounded doubts in the minds of many concerning the issues of following a madhhab (School of Islamic Law). The book is in question and answer format which makes it easier to comprehend. A lot of the discussions have been adapted from “Atharul Hadith” of Shaykh Muhammad ‘Awwamah (may Allah protect him) which has been extremely successful in eradicating many contemporary misconceptions. Download the book – HERE darultahqiq

Qadha/Fidyah for Salaah missed while unconscious Q. A family member was not in a conscious state for 2 months before passing away and was unable to perform Salaah. Is there Fidyah for the Missed Salaahs? (Question summarized and published) A. In principle, if a person had been unconscious for a period of five Salaahs or less, it will be necessary to make Qadha (make up) of the missed Salaahs. In an event of a person passing away in such a state, the Fidyah amount of the missed Salaahs will suffice Inshallah. However, if the period of unconsciousness lasted for six Salaahs or more, Qadha and Fidyah of the missed Salaahs will not be necessary. (Hidaayah 1/78) 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

Part Nine Hijrah to Abyssinia: After Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) accepted Islam, his uncle, Hakam bin Abil ‘Aas bin Umayyah, caught him and shackled him. He said to Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu), “Have you turned away from the religion of your forefathers, accepting a new religion? By Allah! I will never release you until you forsake this new religion that you are following!” Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) replied, “By Allah! I will never leave this religion nor will I part from it!” Eventually, when Hakam saw the firmness and determination with which Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) adhered to Islam, he relented and released him. Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) had performed both migrations to Abyssinia with his respected wife, Hazrat Ruqayyah (radhiyallahu ‘anha). (Tabaqaat ibn Sa’d 3/40) Source: Whatisislam.co.za

The Sweetness of Perseverance and the Consequence of Haste by Abdur-Rahman For all our young imams and da’is out there, the following is an important account that highlights the wisdom behind a non-hasty and measured approach to reforming opinions and delivering your da’wa. For all our young imams and da’is out there, the following is an important account that highlights the wisdom behind a non-hasty and measured approach to reforming opinions and delivering your da’wa. More often than not, local traditions and opinions held for generations cannot be changed in a short amount of time. It requires great amounts of patience, knowledge, tact and wisdom and above all time. Many of us, with youthful vigor and ‘ilmi zeal, sometimes want to change thing overnight and become greatly depressed when it backfires. The account below may also be helpful for those who have found guidance themselves and would like their parents, siblings, spouse, or friends to also be spiritually enlightened. اَلْأَنَاةُ مِنَ اللهِ وَالْعَجَلَةُ مِنَ الشَّيْطَانِ The Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) said, “Calmness and patient deliberation is from Allah and haste is from Satan” (Tirmidhī). This in an account of the insight and prudence of the Great Imam Abu Hanifa and how his advice is played out by two of his students and the clear consequences of each. The early biographer and historian Saymari relates that Yusuf ibn Khalid al-Samti came from Basra to Kufa and studied jurisprudence under Imam Abu Hanifa. When it was time to return the Imam advised him: “When you reach Basra you will come upon people who already have their leaders [and scholars] that they follow. Do not be hasty in taking up a pillar [in the mosque] and attracting a class [to yourself there], saying, ‘Abu Hanifa said this and Abu Hanifa said that. If you do this your class will be dispersed [very quickly].” Samti left for Basra and felt confident to take up a position [as a teacher] by one of the pillars [of the mosque]. Doing this he began to relate from Abu Hanifa. However, he was very quickly forced to leave his teaching. After this, no one took the name of Abu Hanifa until another senior student of the Imam, Zufar ibn al-Hudhayl, returned to Basra. He began by first sitting in the company of the established shaykhs of the city. When the need arose he would provide them with input about additional support and proofs for their opinions. They liked this very much. He would then say, ‘There is another opinion on this issue that is better than this’ and would cite it and provide evidences for it without revealing to them that it was the opinion of Abu Ḥanīfa being cited. Eventually, these opinions found a place in their hearts and he finally revealed to them that they were the opinion of Imam Abū Hanifa. Their response was now that they were sound opinion and it did not matter who had formulated them. This remained his approach until he had convinced them all of the opinions of Abu Hanifa. He did not live very long and died within either years of the Imam’s death in 158 AH (Akhbar Abu Hanifa wa Ashabuhu p. 104; Al-Madkhal 1:119). zamzam academy

Assalaamu 'alaykum warahmatullaah sis! Welcome back and Jaakillaahu khayran for this reminder...very thought provoking

Islam's unique growth Question What is the meaning of this Hadith: 'Islam began as something strange and will revert to being strange as it began.' Answer This is a Hadith from Sahih Muslim. The Arabic word used in this Hadith: Ghariban can be translated and interpreted in a few ways. 1. The common translation is as you have cited it: strange. This means, that Islam started as something strange; something that people considered as odd. It was unpopular in the society of Makkah. After this Allah Ta'ala spread the winds of guidance and Islam spread far and wide. Thereafter, being a Muslim was not odd anymore. The second part of the Hadith would mean: There would come a time when it will return to this state, i.e, a state of being odd. Those who practice on the ideal Islam will be considered strange and odd. (Al-Mufhim, Hadith: 114, Sharhun Nawawi 'ala Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 370 and Faydul Qadir, Hadith: 1951) 2. After providing the above explanation, 'Allamah Qurtubi (rahimahullah) states: [Since the word Gharib could also mean: a stranger/ traveller] 'It could also be referring to the Muhajirun (early migrators). The Muhajirun were forced to leave their homeland [of Makkah] to protect their religion. [Thus they were travellers who were strangers at first in Madinah]. In this case, the last part of the Hadith would mean that a time will come wherein there would be much trouble on the Muslims once again. This will force them to also leave their homelands once again to preserve their religion as the [earlier] Muhajirun had done.' (Al-Mufhim, Hadith: 114. Also see Sharhun Nawawi 'ala Sahih Muslim, Hadith: 370) 3. Another explanation given by Shaykh 'Abdul Fattah Abu Ghuddah (rahimahullah) is as follows: [One meaning of the word Ghariban is: unique] In the beginning days, Islam managed to spread in a unique way, i.e, despite all opposition, Allah Ta'ala caused it to prevail. The second part of the Hadith would mean: Islam in the latter eras, will also return to its glory in a strange way; in a way that will be unique and unfathomable. Insha Allah. I heard this from the senior 'Alim of India, Moulana Ibrahim Devla (hafizahullah) who heard this directly from Shaykh 'Abdul Fattah (rahimahullah) during one of his visits to India. In instances like this, there is no harm in understanding the Hadith to be referring all of the above meanings, it their own right. This is common in non legislative texts of Shari'ah. (refer: Muqaddimahtut Tafsir of Ibn Taymiyah (rahimahullah), pg. 4) And Allah Ta'ala Knows best, Answered by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar hadithanswers.com

INAUGURATION FOR A NEW HOUSE Question I have constructed a new house. is it permitted to do an inauguration? Answer In the Name of Allah, the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful. As-salāmu ‘alaykum wa-rahmatullāhi wa-barakātuh. Alhamdulillah, we are pleased to know that Allah has blessed you with a new house. Thank Allah for this bounty. The concept of inauguration (ceremony) for a new house as in the general norm has no basis in Islam. There are many negative factors in having an opening ceremony for a new house. There is a great possibility of showing off one’s wealth and abilities in the ceremony. That deprives one of the mercy of Allah and barakah. Furthermore, we live in an era of jealously and evil eyes. It is possible that some people may not bear your happiness and begin having jealousy for you. That can be harmful to you. If you wish to express your happiness, you may practice on a sunnah. Invite some pious people (saaliheen) to a meal and request them to preform Nafl Salah in your home and make that place your musalla. A Sahabi, Hadarat Itban bin Malik Radiallahu Anhu invited Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam to his house to perform Salah in his house so that he could make that place his musalla (place for Salah). He used that occasion to be hospitable to Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam and other Sahabah who gathered at that time. Remember, this practice too should not be regarded as compulsory. If one violates the laws of Allah and does not follow Shariah, do not expect the new house itself will bring peace to one. There are many people living in a life of misery in spacious mansions. Peace and happiness lies in obeying Allah and his Rasul and Shariah. No amount of money can purchase such peace. If you want the mercy of Allah and barakah in your home, 1) Obey Allah in all aspects of your life. 2) Practice on the sunnah of Rasulullah Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam. 3) Abstain from committing sins. 4) Recite Quran and Zikr daily in the house. Inshallah, your house will be a means of peace and tranquility for you. And Allah Taala Knows Best Mehrazur Rahman Student Darul Iftaa Brooklyn, NY, USA Checked and Approved by, Mufti Ebrahim Desai.

The Sunnah of exchanging gifts Among the many Sunnats of our Nabi (sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) that pertain to our social life is the beautiful Sunnah of exchanging gifts. Rasulullah (sallallahu ’alayhi wasallam) said: ‘Offer gifts to each other, for this creates affection and removes the anger of the hearts.’ (Muwatta Imam Malik, see Al-Tamhid, vol.15 pg.85-91 and Takhrijul Ihya, Hadith: 1453) Sayyidah ‘Aaishah (radiyallahu ‘anha) states: ‘Rasulullah (sallallahu ’alayhi wasallam) use to accept gifts and would give something in return.’ (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 2585) This is more appreciated when one comprehends the state of poverty of Rasulullah (sallallahu ’alayhi wasallam). Despite his dire conditions, he (sallallahu ’alayhi wasallam) would ensure to replace the gift offered to him. Repay, at all costs! In one Hadith, Nabi (sallallahu ’alayhi wasallam) instructs us with the following: ‘Repay him who does good to you. If you cannot afford to, then [at least] make du’a for him till you feel that you have sufficiently repaid him.’ (Sunan Abi Dawud, Hadith: 1669 with an authentic chain. See Ma’alim Irshadiyyah, pg.325) Let us inculcate this noble Sunnah and thereby increase our mutual bond with fellow Muslims/relatives. almiftah

Part Eight Dream before Islam: Hazrat Yazid bin Roomaan (rahimahullah) narrates: Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) and Hazrat Talhah (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) had proceeded, after Hazrat Zubair bin ‘Awwaam (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) had accepted Islam, until they entered into the blessed presence of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam). Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) invited them to Islam, recited a portion of the Qur’aan Majeed to them, informed them of the rights of Islam and promised them to receive honor from Allah Ta‘ala if they upheld the Deen of Islam. They both brought Imaan and accepted the message of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam). Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) then said, “O Rasul of Allah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam)! I arrived recently from Shaam. (While we were travelling from Shaam,) when we were between Mu‘aan and Zarqaa’, we were as if asleep when we heard a person announce, ‘O people who are asleep! Wake up, for Ahmed (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) has appeared in Makkah Mukarramah!” When we thereafter arrived in Makkah Mukarramah, we heard of you (claiming to be the Nabi of Allah Ta‘ala).” Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) had accepted Islam in the very early days, before Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) had entered Daar-ul-Arqam. (Ibn Sa’d 3/40)

The Map of Marriage Any intelligent person undertaking a very long journey – through a route which he has not travelled before – will ensure that he makes adequate preparations before he departs. He will seek advice and directions and will make enquiries regarding the road and what to expect. After making all the appropriate preparations and taking all the necessary advice and directions, he will most likely carry a GPS to guide him along the way and prevent him from taking any wrong turns. Marriage is also a journey. However, the journey of marriage is meant to last a lifetime. It takes one through different terrains and past various sceneries. While it may generally be smooth sailing, like a luxury car on an open freeway, there are sometimes the odd and unexpected gravel patches. While the route may mainly usher one past gardens, rivers, waterfalls and rolling seas, it does also sometimes lead one through dry and quiet deserts. If the traveller keeps his eye on the road and focuses on his destination, he will Insha’Allah safely pass through all the hills and valleys as well as gardens and deserts. The believer’s destination in marriage, like everything else, is the pleasure of Allah Ta‘ala. The perfect, all-terrain vehicle that will transport him safely and smoothly through the open freeways as well as the rocky patches is Deen – the path of the Quraan Majeed and Sunnah, while the advice of the ‘Ulama and elders is the GPS, assisting them to remain on this path. As long as the couple are in the right vehicle and remain on the path of Deen and focused on their destination, Insha’Allah they will travel smoothly and will not have a bumpy ride. They will thus travel safely through their journey of marriage, until the angel of death makes them part from each other. uswatulmuslimah.co.za

(Click on pictures to enlarge) darultahqiq

From Our Perspective (part 1) In the recent past, due to several reasons, there has been a significant shift in the channel of Islamic information in our societies. In the past, our system of information was in line with the ancient methods; that is to acquire Islamic knowledge from heart to heart. This was done in madrasahs as well as via the mimbars of the masajid. Now that the world has become a global village, the channel of education has been broadened. Just as this brings some benefit, it also has its hazards. As a result, we have become beset with fitnahs of all kinds. One such trial is the scourge of salafism; a doctrine or ideology that deceitfully claims to uphold the teachings of the salaf, but in reality actually defames the very same thing!! A consequence of this is that people begin to question the legality of other madhahib. In our province, the overwhelming majority are Hanafis. Therefore the attack of these ill-informed individuals would be focused on the Hanafi Madhab. The purpose of this booklet; entitled: ‘From Our Perspective’ is to enlighten one and all about the authentic proofs that support the Hanafi standpoint on issues that these individuals raise objection to. The book is meant to be brief, and therefore most of the chapters have just one clear authentic proof. For more elaboration on such issues, the ‘Ulama can refer to the detailed Arabic works on this subject. Download the e-book – HERE

5 Point Plan: Preparing For Ramadan In a few days time, we will enter Rajab followed by Sha'ban and then Ramadan. "O Allah, make the months of Rajab and Sha'ban blessed for us, and let us witness the month of Ramadan." Rajab itself is a blessed month being from the Al-Ash'hur Al-Hurum (Sacred months), where the rewards of virtuous deeds are increased. It is therefore perfect to start our preparation for Ramadan 1) Fast some extra days during these 2 months. For Example the Sunnah fast of Mondays & Thursdays. 2) Increase and renew our Tawbah (repentance) and practice perfecting it. 3) Increase our Ibadah (acts of worship) For example, 2 extra Raka'at of Nafl Salah, 2 extra pages of the Qur'an daily, practice 1 more daily Dua'a. 4) Train our Tongue, Ears & Eyesight Get them used to the act of worship and to refrain from sins. 5) Gradually reduce the time we spend on Social Media and The Television. For example remove yourself from 2/3 unnecessary groups and stop watching few unnecessary television shows. kitaabun.com

Protection from Dajjal Question Is the recital of the first ten (10) and last ten (10) verses of Surah Kahf described as protection from the fitnah of Dajjal in the Hadith? Also, if yes / no, what a’maal are mentioned in the ahadith for protection from the fitnah of Dajjal? Answer Sayyiduna Abud Darda (radiyallahu’anhu) reports that Rasulullah (sallallahu’alayhi wasallam) said: ‘Whoever memorises the first ten verses of Surah Kahf, will be saved from the trial of Dajjal.’ There are a few narrations of this Hadith. Some mention the first ten (10) verses and others, the last ten (10). Both have been recorded by Imam Muslim in his Sahih (Hadith 1880, 1881). As a precaution, one should recite/memorise both sets, the first ten as well as the last ten verses. This (reciting the beginning and end of Surah Kahf) has actually been recorded in a narration of Musnad Ahmad, without any mention as being protection from Dajjal. The reward in this version is that one will be blessed with light (nur) from one’s feet till the sky. (Musnad Ahmad, vol.3 pg.439) Reciting the entire Surah In one narration of Nasa’i, there is no specification of the first ten (10) or last ten (10). (Mukhtasar Abi Dawud of Hafiz Mundhiri vol.6 pg.176; Hadith: 4154, 4156) Some commentators have recommended reciting the entire surah, as is recorded in the above version, as well as in the narration of Mustadrak Hakim (vol.1 pg.511). They explain that Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alayi wasallam) probably initially mentioned the first ten verses, followed by the last ten to gradually encourage its complete recital. (Al-Mufhim, Hadith: 683) Another recital for protection from Dajjal Sayyidatuna ‘Aaishah (radiyallahu’anha) reported that Rasulullah (sallallahu’alayhi wasallam) would recite the following du’a before the salam in his salah Allahumma inni a’udhu bika min ‘adhabil Qabr, wa a’udhu bika min fitnatil masihid dajjal, wa a’udhu bika min fitnatil mahya wa fitnatil mamat. Allahumma inni a’udhu bika minal ma-thami wal maghram ‘O Allah I seek you refuge from the punishment of the grave, and from the trial of Dajjal, and the trials of life and death. O Allah I seek your protection form sin and debt.’ (Sahih Bukhari, Hadith: 832) And Allah Ta’ala Knows best. Answered by: Moulana Muhammad Abasoomar Checked by: Moulana Haroon Abasoomar hadithanswers

Taqlid of the Mujtahid Imams: Shaykh Kiranawi’s reply to Ibn al Qayyim The following work is an English translation of a treatise known as al-Din al-Qayyim by Shaykh Habib Ahmad al-Kiranawi of India, it was originally written in Arabic as a riposte to Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyya (d. 751 AH) of Damascus, on the latter’s treatment and claims on the issue of Taqlid. Thus, it is esentially a scholarly defence of the need and permissibility of following qualified scholarship (Taqlid) of the highest ranking Imams known as Mujtahids, like Abu Hanifa (d. 150 AH), Malik ibn Anas (d. 179 AH), al-Shafi’i (d. 204 AH) and Ibn Hanbal (d. 241 AH). These Imams are the founders of the four most accepted schools of Islamic jurisprudence (Madhhabs) in Sunni Islam for more than 1200 years. Their schools represent the real understanding of the teachings of the earliest Muslims, meaning, the Way of the Sahaba, and what they received from the Companionship of Allah’s Messenger, sallallahu alaihi wa sallam. Till this day, most Muslim scholars and laiety on the surface of the earth are adherents of one of these four recognised Madhhabs. It is only a small minority who have distanced themselves from Taqlid via the centuries as the books of Islamic scholarship and history attest to for more than a millenium. The English edition was translated from Arabic by Shaykh Zameelur Rahman from England, and with his permission it has been uploaded here for the benefit of all readers who wish to understand the issue of Taqlid, and why it is necessary for most Muslims to practice Islam in their lives with the conviction that it is based on not only the sources of the Sharia, but explained and detailed accurately by premier authorities known as Mujtahid Imams. Download link darultahqiq

Part 9 1. Meals should not be served at the home of the deceased to those who come for ta’ziyah. Serving meals at the home is an innovatory practice. 2. It is impermissible to hire a person to recite a portion of the Quraan Majeed and convey the reward to the deceased.

Accept responsibility when it’s your's! (From al-Miftah) It has become a common trend nowadays for people to pass on information with the following disclaimer: ‘Retweets are not necessarily endorsements’ or: ‘The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily that of the editor.’ Whilst this may be a legal shield in this world, in no way does it absolve one in the court of Allah! We are indeed responsible for whatever we say, write, pass on or share. One who is sharing information actually assumes the position of a muballigh (preacher). Every preacher is duty bound to verify the information he shares and to ensure he isn’t a carter of falsehood. The gem of the last century, Shaykh ‘Abdul Hay Laknawi (rahimahullah) writes: ‘If the view is baseless, it is not permissible to quote it, but for the motive of pointing out its flaw... ...it is not permissible to remain silent whilst quoting it, which gives the impression of it being correct.’ (Tadhkiratur Rashid, pg.74) Let’s ask ourselves the following questions: • If we do not endorse what we are propagating, then why are we spreading it?! • Why do we want for others what we do not want for ourselves?! • What is the purpose of publicising such information? Whatever the answer to the above, we are still responsible in Allah’s court. Many of us seem to be unaware of this. As Received Some of us have the habit of adding the following disclaimer at the end of text messages: ‘As received’. This may be a legitimate form of precaution, but one should still weigh up the information before passing it on. If it seems legitimate, but one is not completely sure, then one may add this note when sharing it. All of the ‘disclaimers’ discussed in this article are a result of the ill habit of passing/sharing whatever we receive or discover, without verification. One who passes everything he receives, without verification is considered a liar in the Hadith of Rasulullah (sallallahu’alayhi wasallam). كفى بالمرء كذبا أن يحدث بكل ما سمع

Signs of Allah in the Sugarcane Allah has placed innumerable bounties for us on earth, one of them being the sugar cane. Although it looks like bamboo, it is filled with a liquid from which sugar is extracted and so many sweets and other foods are made. Allah has also placed many cures in this juice, which physicians prescribe for their patients. It is only by the power of Allah that such sweetness and benefit is found in an ordinary cane.

The True Meaning of “Zikrullah” Hazrat Moulana Muhammad Ilyaas (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) once mentioned: The true meaning of “Zikrullah” (the remembrance of Allah Ta’ala) is that no matter which place, situation and condition a person may be in, he is conscious and aware of Allah Ta’ala and of what Allah Ta’ala wants from him at that time. Similarly, he is conscious of the laws of Deen that are directed towards him at that moment. Generally, I emphasize and encourage my friends upon acquiring this form of zikr in their lives. (Malfoozaat Hazrat Moulana Muhammad Ilyaas (rahmatullahi ‘alaih) pg. 21)

Part Seven Islam: (Continuing from Part Six) Hazrat ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) continued: By Allah! Just a few moments later, Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) passed by with Hazrat ‘Ali (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) who was carrying a cloth for Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam). When Hazrat Abu Bakr (radhiyallahu ‘anhu) saw him, he stood and went to him. He then spoke quietly into the blessed ear of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), after which Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) came and sat. After sitting, he turned to me and said, “O ‘Uthmaan (radhiyallahu ‘anhu)! Accept the invitation which Allah Ta‘ala is giving you to His Jannah, as I am indeed the messenger of Allah Ta‘ala to you and to His entire creation.” Hearing these blessed words of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam), I could not help but accept Islam. I then recited the Shahaadah saying, “There is no deity besides Allah alone, who has no partner, and Muhammed (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam) is His servant and messenger.” Soon thereafter, I married Hazrat Ruqayyah (radhiyallahu ‘anha), the respected daughter of Rasulullah (sallallahu ‘alaihi wasallam). (Isaabah vol. 4 pg. 327 and Al-Riyaadh-un-Nadhrah vol. 3 pg. 8)

One should recite tasbeeh-e-Faatimi after every salaah i.e. 33 times Suhbaanallah, 33 times Alhamdulillah, 33 times Allahu Akbar, and complete the hundred by reciting: لَا إلَهَ إلَّا اللهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيْكَ لَهُ لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ وَهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيْر عن أبي هريرة رضي الله عنه عن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم من سبح الله في دبر كل صلاة ثلاثا وثلاثين وحمد الله ثلاثا وثلاثين وكبر الله ثلاثا وثلاثين فتلك تسعة وتسعون وقال تمام المائة لا إله إلا الله وحده لا شريك له له الملك وله الحمد وهو على كل شيء قدير غفرت خطاياه وإن كانت مثل زبد البحر ( صحيح مسلم رقم 597) Hadhrat Abu Hurairah (Radhiyallahu Anhu) reports that Rasulullah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said: “The one who recites after the fardh salaah tasbeeh (Subhaanallah) 33 times, tahmeed (Alhamdulillah) 33 times, takbeer (Allahu Akbar) 33 times, and completes the hundred by reciting لَا إلَهَ إلَّا اللهُ وَحْدَهُ لَا شَرِيْكَ لَهُ لَهُ الْمُلْكُ وَلَهُ الْحَمْدُ وَهُوَ عَلَى كُلِّ شَيْءٍ قَدِيْر his previous (minor) sins will be forgiven even though it be as much as the foam of the ocean.”

GAME OVER Playing is a natural activity for a child and is even important for the correct, healthy development of a child. For a child, playing is not merely a pastime. Rather, it is a developmental and educational process through which the child learns many basic principles such as cause and effect, effort and reward, etc. It is due to the process of playing being such an effective medium of education that teachers seek to capitalize on playing and use it to engage the students in games through which they will be educated in a subtle yet definite and enjoyable manner. However, since the world has taken the route of technology, the nature of ‘the game’ has changed. Now, games are seldom played on fields and in backyards. Rather, the computer, tablet and phone screen has become the new field of play, and once the game begins, players become glued to the screen. For many parents, ‘parking’ the child before the PC or placing an iPad in their hands is a daily solution to occupying the child, leaving the parent free to attend to their own responsibilities or even relax. This has led to children becoming increasingly addicted to these games. As a result, if a child is invited to play soccer in the backyard, it is not farfetched to imagine him replying, “Why should I kick a ball when I already have an app for that!” The result? The virtual world is now preferred to living life in the real world. The dangers that accompany these games are numerous. Games that contain music, pictures of animate objects, indecent content and other similar elements of Haraam are impermissible, and playing these games cause devastating damage to the Imaan of the player. However, even if the game is void of these Haraam elements, these games transmit many subtle messages to these young, impressionable players. Children who grow up playing car racing games generally grow up mimicking the same behaviour by living life “in the fast lane”. Similarly, when games are played that depict and encourage violence, such as fighting, shooting and war games, then the child develops violent tendencies as his natural, inborn aversion to violence is desensitized. In many cases, children who pulled a gun on their classmates and went onto a shooting rampage, murdering innocent people, were found to be avid players of these games. The fundamental difference between these games and the real world is that there are no real consequences in the gaming world. Rather, when one encounters difficulty, one can easily escape by pressing the convenient ‘reset’ button. In real life, there is no reset. When reckless driving leads to an accident and the loss of lives, there is no reset. When a gun is pulled and lives are lost, there is no reset. In real life, there is only one result – the child’s life is ruined and it’s GAME OVER. Furthermore, the playing of the past almost always benefited the child in one way or another. If the child was running in a field, his body benefited. If the child was playing in the kitchen, they were perhaps learning a basic skill such as peeling potatoes, rolling dough, etc. If the child played in the garden, they learnt how to wield a spade, etc. Hence, even though the child was playing, the child was developing a practical skill with which they would be able to benefit themselves and others. On the contrary, most children glued to their screens suffer obesity, anti-social behaviour and a range of other physical and psychological problems. If we truly love our children, let us wake up to the damage that these devices are wreaking on our innocent children. At the very least, let us limit their screen time. Switch off the game before it’s GAME OVER. Jamiatul Ulama (KZN) Council of Muslim Theologians

يَا رَبِّ صَلِّ وَ سَلِّم دَائِمًا أَبَدًا عَلَى حَبِيبِكَ خَيرِ الخَلْقِ كُلِّهِمِ