amaturrahmaan

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem By Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) If there is heavy mist on the windscreens of our cars, we de-mist the windscreen when driving. If we do not do so, we are likely to meet with an accident. Similarly, when our hearts become misted with sins, with evil desires and passions, it becomes necessary to de-mist our hearts with Taubah and Istighfaar. If we do not de-mist our hearts of evils like malice, greed, pride, jealousy, anger, etc., we will always be causing ‘accidents’ in society. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “Everything has a cleaner, and the cleaner of the hearts is the remembrance of Allah.”[1] From another perspective, we learn that everything rusts according to its nature, and the hearts rust with worldly desires and sins. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) explained that hearts rust like how iron rusts. When the Sahabah (RA) asked: “What is its polish?” Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) replied,“Abundant remembrance of death and recitation of the Qur’aan.”[2] Zikrullah thus removes the rust of the spiritual heart - it purifies and cleans the heart. The easiest way to obtain purification of the heart and soul is to spend time in the company of the Ahlullah (the people of Allah Ta’ala) - those who have already purified their hearts. [1] Shu'abul Iman. [This has also been recorded as the statement of Hazrat Abu Darda (RA)] [2] Shu'abul Iman

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem Allah Ta’ala has given the human being a heart. The food which nourishes and pleases the heart is love. The food of the eyes is beautiful scenery and beautiful colour. The ears derive pleasure in listening to beautiful sounds. The tongue appreciates tasty and delicious food and drink. …We find the food for everything is different. The food of the heart, the enjoyment and pleasure of the heart is in love, but the vast majority of people are wasting this precious commodity of love on those things which are transitory and perishable and which will turn to dust. Hazrat Maulana Jalaluddin Rumi (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) related in his Mathnavi: “Your hearts are attached to the things of the world which have their origin in sand. The women of the world are created from sand, the homes are of sand, the food is of sand, the children are of sand. EVERYTHING is of sand. They only appear in different forms and colours. The end result is also sand. Aside from that, you are to be separated from them one day, so why attach yourself to them? Our attachment to these things, which we are to leave behind, should be with a very weak and light adhesive. On the other hand, we are to live with Allah Ta’ala forever. Our attachment to Him should be with a very strong adhesive, i.e. we should create an extremely strong link with Him in our hearts.” The love of one’s parents, wives, children and property is not prohibited, but it should not exceed the love of Allah Ta’ala and His Rasul (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam). This heart is reserved solely for the Love of Allah Ta’ala and His Rasul (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam). Hazrat Khwaja Azizul Hasan Majzoob (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) used to say: “The heart is Allah’s house. It is not the house for (worldly) idols.” [Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (Rahmatullahi 'alayh)]

Bismihi Ta'ala EXTRACT Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel (رَحْمَةُ اللهِ عَلَيْهِ) received his higher Islamic education at Darul-Uloom Deoband during the period 1962 – 1969. Hazrat Maulana studied the first volume of Sahih al-Bukhari under the tutorship of Hazrat Maulana Fakhruddeen (رَحْمَةُ اللهِ عَلَيْهِ) and the second volume under Hazrat Mufti Mahmood (رَحْمَةُ اللهِ عَلَيْهِ). In Hazrat Maulana’s final year of studies, he would accompany Mufti Mahmood (رَحْمَةُ اللهِ عَلَيْهِ), on Thursdays and Fridays, to sit in the company of Shaykhul Hadith, Hazrat Maulana Muhammad Zakariyya (رَحْمَةُ اللهِ عَلَيْهِ). After completing his studies, he was advised by Mufti Mahmood Saheb (رَحْمَةُ اللهِ عَلَيْهِ), his Ustaad, to derive benefit from Hazrat Maulana Abrarul Haq Hardoi (رَحْمَةُ اللهِ عَلَيْهِ). Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel (رَحْمَةُ اللهِ عَلَيْهِ) thus proceeded to Hardoi and stayed there for seven or eight days. Hazrat Maulana Abrarul Haq (رَحْمَةُ اللهِ عَلَيْهِ) showed great compassion towards him during his stay. Read the biography here

Bi Ismihi Ta’ala About the Book This compilation was prepared for those Mureedeen and Saalikeen who attend the Zikr Majaalis of Hazrat Maulana Abdul Hamid Is`haq Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum), but do not know the meaning of the poetry, which is rendered in the Urdu language. In conformity with the teachings and methodology of Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum), Zikr is made with the punctuations of the inspiring ash'aar (poems). The poems are not the Zikr, nor are they the objective. The poems keep the object in mind, so that Zikrullah does not become a ritual. The beautiful poetry also facilitates concentration and enjoyment in taking the name of Allah Ta’ala. Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum) had explained that the true and complete benefits of Zikrullah are realised when one makes Zikr punctually and with sincere love. Read the book here

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem True Zikr is to fulfil the Command of Allah Ta’ala which is directed to us at a particular time – to perform Salaah in its respective time, to pay Zakaah when due, to fast during the month of Ramadaan, to perform Hajj at the time of Hajj (if one has the means), etc. When a person’s parent, wife, child, neighbour, etc. is very ill and requires medication to be brought from the chemist, as a matter of urgency, then at that time, true Zikr is to postpone all optional Ibaadah and attend to the need. Hazrat Ruqayya (RA), the beloved daughter of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam), was very ill when the call for Badr was suddenly made. Since there were only 313 companions accompanying Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam), there was a definite need for Hazrat Uthman (RA), the husband of Hazrat Ruqayya (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam), to also join the expedition. However, Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) left him behind to care for his wife during her severe illness. True Zikrullah is the fulfillment of the Commands of Allah Ta’ala and Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) [by Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (Rahmatullahi 'alayh)]

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem There can be ‘Sihr ’ (sorcery /witchcraft) and ‘magic’ in the words and writings of those who have deviated from the Siratul Mustaqeem . Their words have darkness because they have the darkness of deviation in the form of Kufr (Disbelief), Shirk (Polytheism), Nifaaq (Hypocrisy) and Fisq (Sin) prevalent in their hearts. Those who have spiritually pure hearts can sense this darkness in their hearts, when reading such writings. In fact, shaytaan glorifies the person’s deviated speech or writings and causes it to enter the heart of the reader or listener, as a result of which a person goes astray, sometimes even losing his Imaan (faith). May Allah Ta'ala protect us all. There are so many people who read the books of communists, atheists, Qadianis and Shias, with a so-called ‘open mind’, trusting their intelligence to save them from deviation. However, people of great intelligence and learning went astray. There is no shortage of evidence to prove this point. The writings and speeches of the Ulama-e-Haq and people who have purified their hearts and souls in the company of the pious have Noor (Light). This, in turn, lights up the hearts of both readers and listeners. Those who have to do comparative studies should only do so after acquiring sound knowledge of the teachings of Islam, and should do so under the guidance of the Ulama-e-Haq. [Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (Rahmatullahi 'alayh)]

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem 'Hedayatus Saalikeen' is a compilation of 100 Malfuzaat of Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (Rahmatullahi 'alayh), drawn from Hazrat Maulana's Islaahi talks and Tarbiyyah Lessons. Click HERE to download the book, Insha-Allah.

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem EXTRACT Some other sentiments expressed from other Scholars: “We went to many conferences, but this was just different. It was simple. It was not fancy; it was just different!” “I wish I could always be in an environment like this; not seeing women and not exposed to Fitnah. …Just talks of Dien and in the company of such great Ulama - like being in Jannah! “We felt like we were sleeping all this time. You woke us up to see what the Ummah actually needs from the Ulama!” “People here, walk their talk, by following the Sunnah; contrary to even Ulama from our country.” “Express Shukr to Allah Ta’ala. He made it easy to practise on Dien in a non-Muslim country. Even some Arab countries do not have this privilege.” CLICK HERE FOR PDF

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem By Hadhrat Moulana Abdul Hamid Is’haq Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum) The word Aayah is commonly translated as “verse” but it means “sign”. There are more than 6000 Aayaat in the Qur’aan Sharief. These Aayaat are signs from Allah Ta’ala - which offer us direction to the Zaat (Being) of Allah Ta’ala. …The Qur’aan Sharief leads us to the beautiful destination of Allah Ta’ala’s Ma’rifat, ‘Ishq and Pleasure. As an example: We are currently in Azaadville. If we want to travel to Johannesburg, which is towards the east of Azaadville, we will have to follow the respective signboards to reach Johannesburg. If a person wants to reach any other city, he will have to follow the appropriate signboards to reach that city. …Similarly, with every Aayah of the Qur’aan Sharief, one gets direction to Allah Ta’ala. Alhamdulillah, with Allah Ta’ala’s Fadhl and great Ihsaan, when we commenced learning the Qur’aan Sharief, we read it by looking inside (Naazirah), thereafter we memorised some Surahs, then we went on to become Huffaaz of the Qur’aan Sharief. Alhamdulillah, Allah Ta’ala then opened another special door to more of His Bounties and Blessings - by guiding us to the Darul Uloom and we commenced the ‘Aalim course. There, we went further in learning the Qur’aan Sharief, studying the translation and the Tafaasier (commentaries). Alhamdulillah, after qualifying, many then begin to teach the Qur’aan Sharief to others. …Very sadly, despite being blessed with all of these great bounties, and having this link to the Qur’aan Sharief, many of us have not found Allah Ta’ala; have not recognised Allah Ta’ala. To illustrate: A person undertakes a journey. In spite of many signboards that are placed strategically, offering directions, he gets lost. He even has a GPS to show him the correct route but he still finds himself lost. He then asks someone for directions and the person gives directions, pointing out land marks on the route, and informing him where to turn right or left, etc. The person even draws a sketch with details and landmarks, and keeps in contact with the person, via the cell phone, to ensure that the person is on the right course. If the person still does not reach his destination after all these directions, what would we say of such a person? …Of course, this is not like the case of the person who was lost in KwaZulu Natal and stopped to ask someone for directions. The person said: “Turn right at the second traffic light, left at the stop street, then continue ahead and get lost!” Like a comprehensive map, the Qur’aan Sharief outlines and details the route to Allah Ta’ala; to Najaat (salvation) and to Jannah. From Allah Ta’ala’s side, He has given us 6000+ signs so that we do not get lost. In many places in the Qur’aan Sharief, Allah Ta’ala uses the plural, “Aayaat”. Together with this beautiful guidance, we, ourselves, and every part of our bodies are signs to recognise Allah Ta’ala. وَفِى الْأَرْضِ اٰيٰتٌ لِّلْمُوْقِنِيْنَ◌ وَفِىْٓ أَنْفُسِكُمْ ط أَفَلَا تُبْصِرُوْنَ◌ “On the earth are signs for those of assured Faith, as also in your own selves: Will you not then see?” [surah Az-Zariyat 51 : 20/21] The morning the evening, the mountains, the seas, everything around us, our waking up and our sleeping are all magnificent signs of Allah Ta’ala! Allah Ta’ala does not give meaningless directions – Na’uzu Billah[1]. Allah Ta’ala gives us clear and detailed directions and repeatedly reminds us so that we may stay on course, that we don’t mistakenly take any wrong turns – and that we reach Him in the easiest, safest and quickest way.If we still have not found Allah Ta’ala, we still have not recognised Allah Ta’ala, then there is definitely some failing from our side. We should reflect over what effort we have made in giving up sins? Sins are like concrete walls which separate us from Allah Ta'ala. They block our path to Allah Ta'ala. They block our access to the Qurb (closeness) and Ma'rifat (recognition) of Allah Ta'ala. ...If we want to reach Allah Ta’ala, we will have to undertake some Mujahada[2] against the nafs and we will have to give up our sins. We should also reflect over our intentions when reading the Qur’aan Sharief or teaching the Qur’aan Sharief. The Qur’aan Sharief is Hidayah – so we should be seeking its guidance. It is Ma’rifat of Allah Ta’ala – so we should be seeking this Ma’rifat. It is Qurb (proximity) – so we should be seeking this Qurb. It is Noor – so we should be seeking this Noor. It is Rahmah – so we should be seeking this Rahmah. It is Shifa (cure) from all physical and spiritual ailments – so we should be seeking this Shifa. Hadhrat Hasan Basri (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) had said: "O son of Aadam, how will your heart be softened by the recitation of Qur'aan Sharief if all you read for, is to reach the end of the Surah?" Similarly, how will we take the guidance of the Qur’aan Sharief, acquire the Ma’rifat of Allah Ta’ala and follow the wonderful directions that the Qur’aan Sharief offers, if, from our side, there is no sincere intention or aspiration and we do not practise upon it? With these great bounties of Hidayat and Ma’rifat, a person also becomes Mukhlis (sincere). He realises that Allah Ta’ala alone can reward and that Allah Ta’ala is the One who is the best of those who appreciate. When there is this good understanding, the person will naturally carry out his actions solely for the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala. When there is Ma’rifat, then the person also recognises and understands his own insignificance. Takabbur (pride), Ujub (conceit / vanity) and Riyaa (ostentation) will, Insha-Allah, depart from the heart. In the physical journeys of this world, even with a map, people sometimes request a guide – someone who knows the territory very well and who will facilitate ease with his experience and his knowledge of the landscape, its dangers, etc. and who can be a means of protecting us from mistakes or disasters. Whilst we have the Qur’aan Sharief with its beautiful signs from Allah Ta’ala so that we may traverse and travel this journey towards Allah Ta’ala and reach Allah Ta’ala, this journey also becomes easy when we have a guide. Allah Ta'ala gave us Rasulullah (Sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam) to explain His great signs and to practically demonstrate to us how to follow these great signs. After him, were his Noble Companions (Radhiyallahu ‘anhum) and thereafter their Companions - until we have our present day 'Ulama-e-Haq and our Mashaa'ikh - who teach us, remind us and point out to us the Signs of Allah Ta'ala that we remain on Siratul Mustaqeem and reach our destination. In the Ahadith, Rasulullah (Sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam) encouraged seeking a companion before undertaking a journey ... so that we may have someone who offers us help and support. In this journey to Allah Ta'ala, traversing spiritual realms, we should also seek a companion. The Sheikh-e-Kaamil proves to be a wonderful companion and assistant. He is experienced in traveling the spiritual terrain towards Allah Ta’ala and will be a means of protection, reassurance and success for the travellers to Allah Ta'ala. This great bounty of reaching the destination of the Ma’rifat of Allah Ta’ala is easily obtained through the company of the Auliya Allah[3]. It is in their noble company that we will enjoy the treasures of the Qur’aan Sharief and truly appreciate the wonderful, beautiful and great signs of Allah Ta’ala. We will also experience how each Aayah delivers us closer and closer to Allah Ta’ala! May Allah Ta’ala grant us all the full blessings of the Qur’aan Sharief and the Taufeeq of practising on it entirely. [1] Na’uzu Billah: We seek protection in Allah [2] Mujahada : striving / struggle [3] Auliya Allah : Friends of Allah (Ta’ala) Link to blog : http://hameediyyah.blogspot.com/

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem My Shaykh, Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) mentioned that when people do not appreciate a ‘Ni’mat’ (bounty) of Allah Ta’ala, Allah Ta’ala sometimes snatches away that bounty, whether material or spiritual, and grants it to someone who would appreciate it. The Kuffaar of Makkah Mukarramah did not appreciate and value the priceless treasure in the form of our Beloved Rasul, Sayyidina Muhammad (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam), so Allah Ta’ala took him away from them and blessed the land and people of Madina Munawwarah with his presence and residence. They not only welcomed him, but opened their hearts and homes even to his companions, who had suffered severe persecution with him in Makkah Mukarramah. We should therefore appreciate the gifts of Allah Ta’ala and make “Shukr ” before they are taken away. [Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (Rahmatullahi 'alayh)]

Bismihi Ta'ala EXTRACT A Great Ibaadah One very great Ibaadah that Allah (Jalla Jalaaluhu) has blessed this Ummah with, which is an enjoyable and pleasurable Ibaadah, is the recitation of Durood Shareef and sending Salawaat upon Nabi (Sallallaahu 'alaihi wasallam). There are many types of Ibaadah like how there are many types or work and tasks a person has to do or undertake. For example, one person is a labourer and has to fulfil many chores, like digging holes, etc. Another person works in an air-conditioned office, in comfort, and has light and easy tasks to fulfil. yet he takes a huge salary. Similarly, there are two paths of Dien. The one path is that which consists of lots of Mujahadah (striving and effort) and the other is to work a little, but receive great rewards in return. One of the types of the latter path is the recitation of Durood Shareef. This is such an Ibaadah that can be done in the total comfort of one's home. A person should let the meter of his Durood Shareef run in the comfort of his home and thereby become the Muqarrib (close servant) of Allah (Jalla Jalaaluhu). Amongst the closest servants to Allah (Jalla Jalaaluhu) are those who recite Durood Shareef in abundance, and why should it not be so when Allah (Jalla Jalaaluhu) Himself, has made mention of the honourable and lofty status of Nabi (Sallallaahu 'alaihi wasallam) in the Qur`aan Shareef. Read more here

Sayyidah Ayeshah (ra), the wife of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi waSallam), was once asked: "What was the character of the Prophet?" She replied: “His character was the Qur’aan.” (Sahih Muslim) EXTRACT “And You Are Surely On An Excellent Standard Of Character.” [surah Al-Qalam 68 :4] “The night was dark. The caravan had lost its way. Light was extinguished. Heavy rain and darkness invaded the jungle. Danger intensified.’ …This was the picture of the Jahiliyya (era of ignorance) before the arrival of Nabi Muhammad (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam). People were in a kind of intoxication – intoxicated by vices and crimes. No one had any kind of direction in life. The world out there was nothing but a jungle. It was a question of ‘survival of the fittest’. Everyone was out to grab, grab and grab... The whole world was submerged in zulumaat (darknesses). There was just darkness upon darkness – layers of darknesses… The darkness of tyranny and injustice, the darkness of kufr, the darkness of shirk, the darkness of bid’aat, the darkness of suppression of the rights of the women, the darkness of suppression of the rights of the children, the darkness of cruelty upon the parents, the darkness of stealing, the darkness of gambling, the darkness of every crime … the darkness of every evil infiltrated the lives of people. …In that compounded darkness, Allah Ta’ala sent Nabi Muhammad (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) as a guide and as a light, and darkness was overcome by the brightness and shine of Nubuwwah and the Message of Islam. Read the book HERE

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem Alhamdulillah, there are many who associate with the Mashaa’ikh and many become Bay`at at the hands of some Sheikh. However, very sadly, the relationship is confined to association and not Islaah. Or the person wants credibility, so he establishes ties with some Sheikh. Many make no effort to correspond with the Sheikh for the purpose of Islaah nor do they visit the Sheikh and spend time with him to improve their spiritual condition; whereas in the company of the Sheikh, the Mureed’s Muhabbat and Ma’rifat of Allah Ta’ala, as well as his Islaah, will progress by leaps and bounds, if he is sincere – Insha-Allah. …How will there be improvement and progress, when the Mureed – even if he is an Aalim – is not fulfilling his part? Or he is not sincere in keeping the company of the Sheikh? Hadhrat Moulana Maseehullah (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) had said that when a Mureed delays in Mukatabaat (correspondence) with his Sheikh and he neglects his Ta’alluq (contact) with his Sheikh, then his Munasabat (compatibility / affinity) decreases and he loses out the blessings of his Bay’at. And Hadhrat Moulana (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) also said that where a Mureed informs his Sheikh of his spiritual weaknesses and conditions and he maintains his Ta’alluq, then there will be progress and success. …There are those who become Bay`at and they are granted Ijaazat and Khilafat, and some have many Mureeds – even running in the hundreds or thousands, but they too become comfortable with their spiritual condition, or they feel that now that Ijaazat and Khilafat have been given, they are independent; whereas in the company of the Sheikh, the Khalifa will also draw the teaching, training and expertise of the Sheikh. The fact that many Mureeds do not see any need to maintain that connection, that there is no Islaahi contact, no humility in seeking guidance and advice - shows great weakness. Years pass – and if they do visit, it is to save face or to have their presence acknowledged. If they do make contact, it is because of some problem that they find themselves in and cannot come out of. Where is the Ikhlaas? Others will only discuss their beautiful dreams, or discuss the Ibaadaat and Khidmaat that they are occupied with. They highlight their “kamaal” – their achievements – their Tahajjud, Tilawat, Zikrullah, the Kaifiyyaat (spiritual conditions) they experience, etc. But there is no mention whatsoever of any spiritual sickness or any fears or concerns they have, traveling this path of Sulook. It is a common and a very appropriate saying: “Whoever does not reveal his condition to his physician is not intelligent.” If a person goes to a doctor and says to the doctor: “My pressure is good, my sugar is normal; everything is fine. I am in excellent health!” – The doctor will ask: “Why did you come to me?” Why do we go to the doctor? …To tell him our ailments. To tell him what is wrong with us, so that he may prescribe something for us and we may get cured. In a similar vein, the Sheikh is a spiritual doctor and the Mureed is a patient – who may be suffering from the deadly ailments of pride, vanity, show, jealousy, love of Dunya, and so forth. Others are ‘shy’ to disclose their Roohani or spiritual diseases to the Sheikh. Our Hadhrat (Rahmatullahi ‘Alayh) had said in respect to Mureeds: “Many are not shy. They are frightened - because if they say they are caught up in some sin – like casting lustful gazes or they are jealous of others or they are temperamental or they mistreat their wives – they won’t get Khilafat. Yet, if they acknowledge their weaknesses, seek a remedy and sincerely follow through with whatever is prescribed, they are the ones who will be considered for Khilafat.” There are those who keep company with the Sheikh to give a show of their piety and humbleness. Sometimes, even in that humbleness, there is Riyaa and Takabbur. ...Sometimes, even in the person’s crying and Dua, there is the involvement of nafs! Sometimes, in the Khidmat of the creation, in serving the people, there is the nafs. The person displays his humility to people, but his nafs has a share, wanting to be seen as humble and pious. ...This is a sickness. At times, the person does not realise or recognise his spiritual illnesses, and therefore does not ask for its treatment. He does not recognise the Ujub (vanity), Kibr (pride), Riyaa (ostentation), Hubbe Jah (love for fame) and other major sins in him. He sees himself as pious and righteous, yet he is the one most in need of “ICU” treatment! Who will identify and diagnose? …The Sheikh who is Kaamil. He is blessed with Baseerat (insight) and he is guided by Allah Ta’ala. How many great Ulama, Fuqaha, Muhadditheen and Mufassireen, despite their great, great learning and achievements, still found a distance between their ‘Ilm and ‘Aml, or found some deficiency in regards to their Love of Allah Ta’ala, until they connected themselves with a Sheikh-e-Kaamil; until they humbled themselves? Hajee Imdadullah (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) was not an ‘Aalim; yet Hadhrat Moulana Rashid Ahmad Gangohi (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh), on taking Bay’at to Hajee Imdadullah (Rahmatullahi 'alayh), said:“We knew the names of the mithais (sweetmeats), but it was only in the company of our Sheikh, that we tasted the sweetness of the mithais.” …Meaning, they had the knowledge of Dien and they were highly qualified in the sciences of Dien, but it was only in the company of a Wali of Allah Ta’ala, that the reality of Dien and the spirit of Dien and the Sweetness of Dien, were experienced. It is related that when the son of Sheikh ‘Abdul Qader Jeelani (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) qualified in the various branches of Dien, after many years of travel, he returned home. The father requested the son to address the congregation, which he did, presenting an impressive talk on Qur`aan and Sunnah. The audience listened but there was no influence on their hearts. Sheikh ‘Abdul Qader Jeelani (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) then addressed the same congregation and said: ‘I made the intention to fast today and set aside some milk for Suhoor. A cat came into my home and drank the milk. So the fast was kept without Suhoor.” The entire audience began to tear on just that statement. Amazed at the response, the son asked his father as to why such a simple incident would move the audience to tears whereas his own discussion on Qur`aan and Sunnah did not stir their hearts. The father replied: “My dear son, you have travelled and traversed the lands of the physical world, in your quest for knowledge. You have not as yet traversed the spiritual world, in your quest for Allah Ta’ala. This is the outcome of traversing the inner path to Allah Ta’ala. You have acquired the external dimension of Ilm, but you are yet to acquire its reality!” Some students and ‘Ulama sit before the Mashaa`ikh, and they sit with their own knowledge in front of them – and then they pass their opinions, viewpoints and even their critique, not considering that they may not have that degree of Ma`rifat that the Mashaa’ikh have, nor the experience and the skill and the depth in understanding which Allah Ta’ala blesses the Mashaa’ikh with. Many entertain pride and vanity of their knowledge and of their opinions – whereas, we should ask ourselves: From where did we learn and acquire this knowledge? ...Was it not taught to us? Was there not a time when this knowledge was totally unknown to us? Imam Ahmad Ibn Hambal (Rahmatullahi ‘Alayh) was a great Muhaddith and ‘Aalim. When he would see Hadhrat Bishr Haafi (Rahmatullahi ‘Alayh), he would respectfully stand up, to greet him. His students asked: ‘Why is there so much of respect for Bishr Haafi? He is not even an ‘Aalim.’ Imam Ahmad replied: “I am an ‘Aalim of the Kitaab. He is an ‘Aalim of Allah Ta’ala.” There is a reality that needs to be sought. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) mentioned that the hearts of the close friends of Allah Ta’ala are mines of Taqwa. Hadhrat ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Umar (Radiyallahu’anhu) related that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “Everything has a mine. The mine of Taqwa is the hearts of the Aarifeen (those who have the recognition of Allah Ta’ala).[1] Our Sheikh (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) had beautifully explained that just as we obtain gold from a gold mine, silver from a silver mine, and diamonds from a diamond mine, so the treasure of Taqwa and the treasure of Allah Ta’ala’s Muhabbat and Ma’rifat is drawn from the companionship of His close friends, the Auliya Allah. Hadhrat Moulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb (Rahmatullahi Alayh) mentioned as an example: “If a donkey falls and dies in a salt mine, it too will become salt in due time. …If the Mureed annihilates his opinion in the presence of his Sheikh and he leaves aside his rank, his status and his knowledge, and sincerely spends some time with the Sheikh, Insha-Allah, such a Mureed will make great progress and become the friend of Allah Ta'ala.” However, the nafs is a huge barrier. By nature, the nafs does not like to lower itself. …So the Mureed will have to strive against his nafs to enjoy the fruits of this journey to Allah Ta'ala. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “Whoever humbles himself for the sake of Allah, Allah elevates him.” In this path, there is a demand for humility. One needs to humble himself in this process of Islaah and Tazkiyah – and if it is done seeking Allah Ta’ala, then it is for Allah Ta’ala. Allah Ta’ala then elevates. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the understanding, the humility, the sincerity and the Taufeeq of making our Islaah under the guidance of a Sheikh-e-Kaamil. By Hadhrat Moulana Abdul Hamid Is’haq Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum) [1] Tabarani Link to blog : http://hameediyyah.blogspot.com/

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem by Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (Rahmatullahi 'alayh) Ikhlaas (sincerity) generally starts off with a lot of difficulty. However, just as there is a need for some type of utensil to receive water, so too is there a need for the structure of Ibaadah (worship), be it Salaah, Fasting, Zakaat, Hajj or any other Ibaadat, to receive the desired Ikhlaas. If the utensil is discarded, then what would be used to receive the water? In a similar vein, if the ‘Amal’ (action) is discarded, in what are you going to receive Ikhlaas? Even though there will be shortcomings in our Ibaadah and Ikhlaas, we must continue doing the ‘Amal’ and continue with the effort to do so solely for the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala, and we should engage in plenty of Taubah[1] and Istighfaar[2] for our deficiencies in Ikhlaas. Moreover, it is in the company of the Auliya Allah (Friends of Allah) that a person learns and acquires Ikhlaas. Their hearts are reservoirs of Ikhlaas. [1] Taubah: Repentance [2] Istighfaar : Seeking forgiveness

Salaah | Surrender to Allah Ta'ala Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem By Hadhrat Moulana Abdul Hamid Is`haq Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum) Salaah has to become a Salaah in reality. When we present ourselves for Salaah, we should do so with utmost humility. We should submit ourselves – heart, mind, body and soul, to Allah Ta’ala. Let us keep before us that Salaah is entering the Court of the King of Kings, and let us keep before us our reality: That we are the slaves and servants of Allah Ta’ala. When we bow our heads in Ruku’ and prostrate our heads in Sujood, then we must also bow and prostrate our hearts to Allah Ta’ala and surrender fully to Him. When our heads are in Sujood, then we should also surrender our brains and intellect to Allah Ta’ala. ...We sometimes have our own plans and ideas – which are not in compliance with Dien and Shari'ah. We should relinquish them for the Pleasure of Allah Ta'ala. Submit to the Commandments and Decisions and Plans of Allah Ta’ala, which are full of Wisdom, Mercy and Kindness for His Slaves. Salaah, performed with true ‘Abdiyyat (Servitude), invites the success of this world and the success of the Hereafter. Fortunate and intelligent is the person who establishes Salaah in his or her life. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the Taufeeq of true Abdiyyat and establishing our five daily Salaah. Link to blog : http://hameediyyah.blogspot.com/

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem This life is a journey. We are all on a journey and we are traveling all the time. Even if the person is a couch potato, and passing his life in inactivity and idleness, he too is traveling. If the person is sitting, lying down or sleeping, he too is traveling. The person is in a car: The car is moving and covering distance, and simultaneously, the journey of life too is continuing. The person’s life is moving on and on. One breath follows another. And every breath of life is part of that journey. Seconds are ticking away. Minutes slip through the hourglass of time. Days and nights bring a close to weeks and weeks bring a close to months and months bring a close to the years. Hazrat Hasan Basri (Rahmatullahi ‘Alayh) had so aptly said: "O Son of Aadam! You are nothing but a number of days. Whenever a day passes, a part of you is gone." Every day, every week, every month is part of the journey – like how a person travels 10 kms, 100 kms, 500 kms, 1000 kms… Every passing year of life is like a station which we reach. And no one knows how many stations he has to travel through before he arrives at his destination. …For some, there is just one station – and they die at the tender age of one; some stop at 10 stations and at the age of 10, they disembark. Others have to travel through 50 stations, 60 stations, even 100 stations in life before they reach the end of the journey. Most of us have the experience of flight travel or even traveling by train. We stop here and there in transit and then we arrive at the destination. The pilot informs the passengers when the plane begins its descent for landing, and when the plane lands and comes to a standstill, the pilot announces that all passengers must disembark… This is the reality of life. When we reach the end of this worldly life, the Command is given that the soul now disembarks. And we have already seen so many disembark : seniors and juniors, rich and poor, kings, presidents, subjects – all have to disembark. Therefore we have to be thrifty with time; we have to be prudent and cautious in regard to time. Use it productively and constructively, usefully and efficiently. Time can be likened to the root of a young tree –a sapling. If a person looks after the sapling, and waters the root, it will grow into a big tree, with its branches and leaves spreading out, providing extensive shelter and a tree which gives a lot of fruit. We will say that the person took care of his life and the most precious commodity of his life was his time. Now that time bears fruit because the person carried out good deeds in the time given to him, engaging himself in Salaah, Zikrullah, Tilawah; spending days in fasting, in giving Zakaah and Sadaqaat, striving in earning Halaal sustenance, as well as controlling his gazes when in the shopping centres, markets, universities, colleges, or wherever else, and controlling his heart from the evil desires of nafs and shaytaan.All of these noble deeds were done in time. That tree bears fruit, and he will enjoy those delicious fruits in the grave and in the Hereafter. On the Day of Qiyaamah, he will also enjoy the extensive shelter which his good deeds will offer him, Insha-Allah. Allah Ta’ala also uses the analogy of a tree in the Qur’aan Shareef: “See you not how Allah sets forth a parable? A goodly word as a goodly tree, whose root is firmly fixed, and its branches (reach) to the sky (i.e. very high).” [surah Ibrahim 14 : 24] Here, Allah Ta’ala likens the Believer’s Imaan and his deeds to a tree, with roots, deeply entrenched, a bark which is strong and sturdy, and branches, extending high up. The real dividends and the real earnings and the greatest of all enjoyments, will be experienced in Jannah when he will behold the beauty of Allah Ta’ala with his own eyes. SubhanAllah. ‘That veil, which was covering Allah Ta’ala’s Countenance, will be removed. Now will be the time to smile for those who took that grief on their hearts, and restrained themselves from all evil.’ As for the person who falls for the temptations of nafs and shaytaan, he will have to deal with the consequences of squandering the wealth of life and wasting the fortune of time. His is a bad investment, where the shares drop completely. He may be left with a meagre 20% or 10 %, or he may end up with nothing. If it was spent in disbelief, the net result is the fire of Jahannum – May Allah Ta’ala save us. If it was spent in sins, then we have been warned of punishment in the grave as well as in the Hereafter. Allah Ta’ala likens the disbeliever to a bad tree - because his words and deeds are bad. The roots of the tree are not fixed and not firmly established, and does not stand the test of time. “And the parable of an evil word is that of an evil tree uprooted from the surface of earth, having no stability.” [surah Ibrahim 14: 26] The deeds of the disbeliever are described as: “The deeds of those who disbelieve their Lord are like ashes blown away by the wind on a stormy day. They will not be able to gain anything out of what they did. That is the wandering away from the path.” [surah Ibrahim 14: 18] Their deeds are wasted due to their disbelief in Allah Ta’ala. Thus their time of life was wasted and no good awaits them in the Hereafter. (May Allah Ta’ala protect us all). …When time is lost, life is lost. Sometimes the Hereafter is lost. What a great loss when the person loses out the opportunity of making real investments – which would bring him great, great profits in both worlds. How sad if he reaches the Aakhirah as a pauper, or worse still, as a loser – losing out on Jannah forever. May Allah Ta’ala protect us all. Let us reflect over the words of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa-Sallam) and reflect over which category we are in: ““The intelligent one is he who suppresses his desires and practises for what is after death, and the foolish one is he who makes his nafs follow its desires and (he) places hope on Allah.”[1] …So let us not waste time on those things that will not benefit us in any way. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the Taufeeq of preparation for the journey to the the Hereafter. [1] Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah By Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘Alayh)

Bismihi Ta'ala Synopsis ‘Rujoo Ilallaah’ presents a touching story of the sincere repentance of a Companion of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi waSallam). The book draws attention to and brings to light the genuineness of the repentance, loyalty and piety of the Sahabah-e-Kiraam (RA), as well as their distinction and lofty status in the sight of Allah Ta’ala. Beautifully narrated by Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (RA), the story, together with the discussion, refreshes our commitment to Allah Ta’ala, creates an earnest inclination to repent from all sins, engenders deep hearted hope in the Mercy of Allah Ta’ala, and increases one’s appreciation and gratitude for His Kindness and Forgiveness. Pages – 64 Read the book HERE

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem EXTRACT THE SCALE OF DEEDS BECOME HEAVY BY DUROOD SHARIEF It is narrated in a Hadith that a person will have his bad deeds out-weighing his good deeds, by far, on the scales. He will lose all hope and be very despondent. Suddenly a handsome young man will appear and put a small piece of paper in his pan of good deeds, by which it will outweigh all of the huge amounts of his bad deeds! He will exclaim, “Who are you and what did you put in my pan of good deeds - that it immediately outweighed all my bad deeds?” He will reply : “I am your Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) and this was your Durood you recited on me!” READ THE BOOK HERE

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem Those of us who are involved in some service of Deen, should consider our likeness to the guards who protect the Palace of the King. The guards understand that the King is not in need of their service. The King’s resources are such that he can easily replace one with a hundred more, or a thousand more guards. A guard thus considers it his good fortune to be accepted by the King and to be in his service. In the same vein, those involved in the Khidmat of Deen, have been selected from millions to serve the Deen of the King of Kings. They are defending and guarding the Deen of Islam or propagating the Deen. We should thus consider ourselves as most fortunate, that despite us not deserving such a privilege and despite our failings, Allah Ta’ala is using us for some service or the other. We must understand that this is entirely the Ihsaan (Favour) of Allah Ta’ala. We should not forget that Allah Ta’ala is not in need of us and can easily replace each person with an entire nation, to be in the service of Islam. Allah Ta’ala, in fact, expresses this independence and sovereignty: “…AND IF YOU TURN AWAY, HE WILL REPLACE YOU WITH ANOTHER PEOPLE; THEN THEY WILL NOT BE THE LIKES OF YOU.” [surah Muhammad 47 : 38] Appreciation should be continuously expressed for the great favour of serving Deen; forgiveness should be sought for our shortcomings and inadequacies, and Dua should be made for acceptance in the Court of Allah Ta'ala. We should not seek worldly gains because the rewards of Allah Ta’ala encompass the best of both worlds, for those who are Mukhlis (sincere). [Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (Rahmatullahi 'alayh)]

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem Presently, we find that many learned people, pious people, Ulama and even Mashaa’ikh, condone and even encourage secular education or tertiary education. They stipulate conditions such as: Not getting involved in sins and any immoral behaviour; maintaining one’s identity as a Muslim, performing Salaah, etc. However, dealing with so many cases and we find that even good Muslim children, with a good Dieni upbringing, from good homes and Dieni families, become victims to the environment and get caught up in illicit relationships, fornication, abortions, marriage to non-Muslims, atheism, homosexuality, Shia’ism, Qadianism, drugs, alcohol, etc. These are the incidents that are brought to us – when the damage is done. My Ustaadh, Hafiz Muhammad Salloo Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) had related that a father requested Dua for his young daughter, who he was sending to the UK, to study medicine. The father requested Dua that Allah Ta’ala protects her from all evils and harm since she would be alone in a foreign country. Hadhrat Hafiz Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) said to the father: “You are telling me that you want to send your daughter out in the pouring rain and I must make Dua that she must not get wet. If she goes out in the rain, she must get wet.” …And being alone in a foreign country, or even in another part of the country, leaves her without the “umbrella” of a Mahram, to offer her protection. If there is a young and beautiful, tender and healthy buck in front of a hungry lion, then even if you were to give a lecture to the lion that it must not eat the buck, that advice will not mean anything to the lion. The lion only sees a delicious meal before him, which he will devour. We send our children into the universities and colleges – this is akin to sending them into the lion’s den – except that these institutes are shaytaan’s dens. And we have seen so many devoured by the environment – not only losing their Hayaa and chastity, but their Imaan as well. Recently, a girl, from a very Dieni family, was sent to a foreign country to study. When she was returning home for a holiday, she asked her parents if she could bring her friend along. They gave permission, not realising that her friend was a male, whom she was involved with and also living with. On seeing him and being informed of the relationship, the parents refused to accommodate any Haraam in their home. ...Despite the Dieni upbringing that had been given, this young girl refused to take understanding, saying that there was no way she would give up the Haraam relationship. She chose to leave her family and chose to live in sin. The parents were naturally devastated. Attending these western secular insitutions and pursuing secular education have given rise to such incidents. There is an escalation and surge of cases, brought to us, of Muslim girls and Muslim boys caught up in Zina or homosexuality, giving up Islam, etc. A doctor from Welkom mentioned to me that after his son completed high school, he took him to one of the universities to register him for his tertiary education. However, on seeing how degenerative and immoral the environment at the university is, he decided against enrolling his son. He said to me: “If I send my son to university, it will be paying thousands of Rands to send him to Jahannum. I will be signing a cheque to dispatch my son to Jahannum!” This was the observation and realisation of a medical doctor and he had the good understanding that this tertiary secular education is not worth anything if it meant that his son lost his connection with Dien and lost his Aakhirah. One brother asked me for advice regarding his son’s education. I suggested that he enrol his son in a Darul Uloom and make him an Aalim. Insha-Allah, this would invite the success of both worlds – for his son and for the parents. The father was not keen on this, so I said that his son should join him in the business. The father’s inclination was a university education and this was the decision of the father and son. Later, it was brought to my attention that the son was influenced by Shias and was even propagating shia’ism at the university he was attending. May Allah Ta'ala save us all. Another incident was of a student who would boldly announce to Muslim students, at one of South African universities, that he had been a Muslim, gave up Islam, is an atheist and also a homosexual. This is what the university/college life and secular education took from him and what it then gave him …and many, many more like him. It took away the gems and jewels of Imaan and Dien, of chastity, morality and modesty. Worldly education is permissible in Islam. It is not prohibited. ...Secular education is rejected because its purpose is to eradicate religion. We should also remember that worldly knowledge is necessary to the extent of its necessity and for who it is necessary. One principal of Darul Uloom Deoband was told to introduce worldly education in the Darul Uloom. He replied: “There are enough toilets available. I do not have to introduce more of those toilets in the Darul Uloom.” What he was alluding and indicating to was that Dunyawi education is a necessity just as a toilet is a necessity. And worldly education was and is already more than sufficiently catered for by governments, NGOs, private schools, etc. There was no need for the Darul Uloom to also offer it. Dieni education is a necessity like air and water - and is by far more important. We are dependent on air and water for our survival. To a greater extent we are in need of Dien to survive spiritually. Dien is the basis of salvation in the Hereafter. Qaasimul Uloom wal Khairaat, Hadhrat Moulana Muhammad Qaasim Nanotwi (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) had also explained that where worldly education was flourishing, the knowledge which was sacred (Dieni knowledge) was abandoned. This is why Darul Uloom Deoband focussed entirely on Dieni knowledge. Many are not even aware of the aims of secular education but they endorse and support it. Yet, secular education is that worldly education which does not feature Allah Ta’ala. It is knowledge minus the belief in Allah Ta’ala. It is entirely atheistic in essence. Behind the secular education system, are hard-core atheists. Their aim is to divest us of our religion. Sadly, materialism has become our pursuit. There are some of us, who even have a connection with Dien, yet look towards our children’s Dunya first. Dunya takes priority. Dien takes a back seat or is left out. ...May Allah Ta'ala guide us. We fail to understand the serious repercussions when secular education is favoured over Dieni education. When Dunya is given preference, Dien and Aakhirah can easily be lost. Secular education is a deception. We are deceived into believing that it is a need and a must, and without it, there is no worldly success. Yet, Allah Ta’ala promises success in both Dunya and Aakhirah if we give precedence to Dien. Sometimes, our thinking and our priorities are very wrong. We hear people say that their daughters have to study, they have to get their degrees and they have to earn a living. They consider this a must and their reasons are: What if she gets divorced? Or: In today’s time, you need two incomes per family. …Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi raji’oon. Where is our Imaan? Up until Matric, did Allah Ta’ala not make all the arrangements for their food, shelter, clothing, etc. without them going out to earn? Do we doubt His ability to provide? Why do we have to adopt such negativity regarding our daughters futures that we assume divorce is likely and that they will have to go out and fend for themselves? This mind-set makes evident our weak and diluted trust in Allah Ta’ala and it is chalking out a Taqdeer of adversity and perhaps even a failed marriage - Allah Ta'ala forbid. Rasulullah (Sallallahu 'alayhi wasallam) said: “Allah Ta’ala said: ‘I am as My servant thinks (expects) I am.”[1] Hafez Ibn Hajar (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) had said that this means: “I am able to do whatever he expects I will do.”[2] If our expectation in Allah Ta’ala is good, we invite good circumstances. If our expectation is bad, we invite bad circumstances. Our lives are in the full control of Allah Ta’ala. This kind of negative thinking indicates a very poor opinion of Allah Ta’ala... that Allah Ta'ala will not create favourable conditions and situations. (Na'uzu Billah). With two incomes today, people still complain that it is not enough. …And the truth is that even two incomes are not sufficient in the face of materialism and greed. Our Rizq (sustenance) is Muqaddar. It has been pre-destined. It will reach us – nothing less and nothing more. Women have written, stating that in trying to juggle a career, marriage and responsibilities of children, etc. they have completely exhausted themselves and have lost their bearings spiritually. The second income and all the material luxuries did not buy them happiness and peace; it just brought in its wake, a lot of stress, tension, depression and sickness. Brothers have written that in all their efforts and exertion and sacrifices to acquire the luxuries of the world, there is still a vacuum. There is something missing. This is because Dunya cannot satisfy the Rooh (soul). The soul only finds its peace and contentment in Dien. Let us not foolishly remain trapped in the rat race of Dunya – weighed down and shackled by worldly worries and expenses – and Allah Ta'ala forbid, at the time of death, exiting the world spiritually bankrupt. Not one single thing of all the material comforts of Dunya accumulated will be accompanying us to the Hererafter. So take the provision that is essential – the provision of Imaan and good deeds. Work hard for this, to reap the best of the Hereafter. The worldly life is fleeting. The Herafter is forever. Be intelligent. Invest where there are never-ending returns. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: ‘Verily, the world has been created for you and you have been created for the Hereafter.’[3] May Allah Ta’ala grant us the understanding, the concern and the effort towards learning Dien and achieving Allah Ta’ala’s Pleasure and Jannah. [1] Sahih Bukhari [2] Fath al-Bari [3] Tambeehul Ghaafileen Link to blog : http://hameediyyah.blogspot.com/

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem Our Muslim names, Islamic dress and our prayers are like the sign board found outside a shop, which informs us that inside this shop, sweets, chocolates, biscuits, cakes, fruit, etc. are stocked and sold. The person reading the signboard thus expects to find what has been advertised outside, inside that shop. What would be the reaction of the person if he or she finds cow dung, horse manure and cat’s droppings inside, instead of sweets and chocolates? In a similar vein, our beautiful Muslim names and Islamic garb informs others that inside our hearts there is certain ‘merchandise’ in the form of firm Imaan in Allah Ta’ala and love for His Beloved Rasul (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam). A person expects to find, the attributes of trustworthiness, honesty, sincerity, forgiveness, charity, Taqwa (piety), Zuhd (asceticism), Sabr (patience), Shukr (gratitude), etc. These are the qualities and traits a person expects to find in his social dealings with us. The beard, kurta, turban, tasbeeh, or the cloak, purdah, etc. are all additional signs which lay more and more emphasis on the person’s virtue and goodness. What would be a person’s reaction, when instead of these virtues, he or she finds arrogance, pride, malice, greed, jealousy, etc.? [Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (Rahmatullahi 'alayh)]

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem One of the signs of gaining the Ma’rifah (Recognition) of Allah Ta’ala is to be granted the Taufeeq of Du’aa (supplication). Duas made sincerely, fulfilling the necessary conditions are always accepted. However, Allah Ta’ala, in His Wisdom, answers Duas in different ways. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) has said : “Any Muslim who makes a Dua and his Dua does not contain a request for anything sinful or anything regarding the severance of family ties, Allah grants him one of three things most assuredly; namely, What he has asked is granted immediately, or What he has asked is saved for him as a treasure in the Aakhirah[1], or Allah wards away some calamity from him in lieu of the object asked for.” …A person should therefore not feel that his or her Duas are rejected. Hazrat Ya’qoob (‘alaihis Salaam) on being separated from his beloved son, Hazrat Yusuf (‘alaihis Salaam) made Du’aa for 40 years before Allah Ta’ala re-united him with his son. The Dua was most certainly accepted – more so, since it was the Dua of a Nabi of Allah Ta’ala – but Allah Ta’ala knows best where, when and how Du`aa is to be accepted. [1] Aakhirah : Hereafter Read the book here

Bi Ismihi Ta’ala About the Book In Bukhari Shareef, there is a narration wherein it is mentioned that on one occasion, Nabi (Sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) drew a square (as an illustration), then a line in the middle transcending the square, then short lines on both sides of the middle line. Nabi (Sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) then explained the illustration: The square is the life-span of man. The sides of the square, surrounding him is death, which cannot be escaped. The middle line represents him, living his life (till the end of the square). The line continues beyond the square (his death), representing his hopes and desires, which transcend his life-span. Man constantly faces problems in his worldly sojourn. The little lines on either side of the middle line, represents those problems, misfortunes, hazards and dangers. To overcome them Allah Jalla Jalaaluhu has given us all, protection in dealing with these tests. Amongst these are Sabr (patience) and Shukr (gratitude). If we adopt these two qualities in dealing with life’s challenges, we will pass through the worldly life with ease, Insha-Allah. This book is a transcript of a talk, by our respected Shaykh, Hazrat Maulana Abdul Hamid Is`haq Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum). Read the book here

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem The ‘Suhbat’ or company of the Auliya Allah (Friends of Allah Ta’ala) is such that even if they remain silent in their Majaalis, those who are present and who had come with sincerity, will leave with Noor in their hearts. It is via this Noor that a person makes sincere Taubah, and it is this Noor which is instrumental in creating the keen desire of change in the person’s life. Fragrant roses in a room do not give any speech. Their fragrance imbues throughout the room, enters the nostrils and creates pleasure in the heart. The conditions for benefiting are : The roses must be real and fragrant; not artificial. The people in the room must have their noses open and sinuses unclogged. In a similar manner, the person must be a genuine Wali of Allah Ta’ala and not a fraud, and the people sitting in his company must have love and respect for him and must sit with an open and unprejudiced heart, willing to receive. People sitting in the talks of a Wali, harbouring malice against that Wali, will derive no benefit whatsoever. [Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (Rahmatullahi 'alayh)]

Bismihi Ta'ala EXTRACT Ikhlaas Sometimes, there are many fruit on one branch, while on other branches of the tree, there are very few fruit. Have you not seen such a thing? There are some guava or mango trees where some of the branches are laden with fruit, while other branches are barren, due to the sun not shining on that part of the tree. In the same way, it depends on which branch of Deen, Ikhlaas is directed on. That branch will bear the most fruit, where the Khidmat is accompanied with Ikhlaas. Sometimes, there are lots of branches on a tree. In the same way, there can be lots of Madaaris, Makaatib[1] or Muballigheen[2] but this quantity does not affect the quality of the fruit. The quality depends on the level of Ikhlaas. A person who is out in Jamaat and he has Ikhlaas, will bear sweet fruit – in his efforts. The people who then join that Jamaat will be attracted towards the person, and will change their lives, Insha-Allah. The Sweetness of Ikhlaas The same effect is found in other works of Deen. We often find a branch with fruit which is extremely sour. You will find on a grapevine that some bunches of grapes are sweet while others are sour. So in Deen also, the sweet “grapes” will be found on the branch which was touched by the “sunlight” of Ikhlaas. This is what we need to become: like sweet grapes. This is attained by adopting Ikhlaas.... READ THE BOOK HERE [1] Makaatib: Primary level madrasahs [2] Muballigheen: Those who propagate and preach Islam