amaturrahmaan

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem By Hadhrat Moulana Abdul Hamid Is’haq Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum) Were we to reflect over various incidents in the annals of our history, we find that without fail, shaytaan whispers negative thoughts in the hearts and minds of people, whereby many incline towards objecting and fault-finding. In the time of Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam), the people said that they want a Nabi like Musa (Alaihis Salaam) who received his Kitaab in one tablet form. They also presented other objections and baseless reasons in not accepting Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam): The Quraish questioned why Nubuwwah was not given to one of their leaders; why an angel was not sent down; and the Jews turned away because the final Nabi descended from Hadhrat Isma`eel (Alaihis Salaam) and not Hadhrat Is`haq (Alaihis Salaam). They also say: 'Why was this Qur'an not revealed to some mighty man from the two towns'? [surah al-Zukhruf,43:31] "They also say: 'How is it that this Messenger eats and walks about the markets? Why has no angel been sent down with him to warn us? Or, why has no treasure been thrown to him, or a garden for him to eat from?' And the harm doers say: 'The man you follow is surely bewitched.'" [surah Al-Furqaan 25:7−8] With the choosing of the Khulafa in the history of Islam, we find objections. …This is what happens all the time. This fitnah has always prevailed… We find the same trend and pattern being followed in every generation, at different levels. The Sheikh passes away and shaitaan places objections in the people, regarding those who are Khulafah. The Mureed thinks or even says: “There is no one to guide me! …I don’t find anyone fit for me. There is no one worthy for me to take Bay`ah, to continue with, on this path…” Is there any humility in this kind of thinking? …There is no humility in this. This kind of thinking smacks of pride! The person’s thinking discloses that he considers himself such a person, such an important and great person that presently in the entire world, there is no one good enough to be a means of guidance and assistance on this path to Allah Ta’ala. When Hadhrat Moulana Muhammad Ilyas (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) passed away, people said that the work of Tabligh was dead – there is no one to continue. Allah Ta’ala disproved their conclusions by bringing Hadhrat Moulana Yusuf (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) into the work, and Masha-Allah, he made the work flourish in the world. When he passed away, the people said there is nobody to continue. Hadhrat Moulana Inaamul Hasan (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) then continued the work. He too passed away and still the work continues – everywhere. This is the effort of shaytaan, where people think: ‘Now there is nobody!’ Sheikhul Hadith, Hadhrat Moulana Muhammad Zakariyyah (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) would say:“Make a connection with a Sheikh who is here today, because tomorrow he too will not be here. Appreciate (make qadr) before even the present day Mashaa`ik are gone.” There are many who compare the present day Mashaa’ik with the Mashaa’ik and Auliya Allah of the past, and in their comparison, they consider and even describe the present day Ahlullah as ‘3rdclass’, as ‘low grade’ or as inferior. …How easily we forget what our own condition is and to what class we belong to... Hadhrat Moulana Maseehullah (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) had given an apt analogy: A person wants to travel from Bombay to Delhi, but he arrives late and the train has already started moving. He has a first class ticket but the first class coach has already moved ahead. If he says: ‘I only travel first class. I will never consider traveling third class.’ – Then he must not expect to reach his destination. …The train is slowly moving out and picking up speed. There is still the opportunity to get onto the third class coach. If he does not, he will not reach Delhi. The person will just stay where he is. He should rather board the third class coach, despite the inferior and inadequate facilities. It may be that the windows do not close, or the fans do not work or the seats are loose, or the hinges are broken. However, despite all of these conditions and the discomfort, if he boards, he will reach his destination. It is a known fact that the destination of the first class coach is the destination of the third class – even though not so comfortably. Hadhrat Moulana Maseehullah (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) then said that the truth is, that there is never a case where the Auliya Allah are third class. …Your thinking is third class. They are not third class. They are all first class. It is the Mureed’s bad thinking: ‘They are not fit for me; not good enough for me!’ This train of thoughts reveals pride. Allah Ta’ala not only informs us that there will always be His Truthful and Sincere Friends, He commands us to keep their company, to be with them. This proves the need for a Sheikh and to relate to him. يٰٓأَيُّهَا الَّذِيْنَ اٰمَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللهَ وَكُوْنُوْا مَعَ الصّٰدِقِيْنَ ◌ “O You who Believe, Fear Allah and join the company of the Truthful ones (the pious, the Auliya Allah).” [surah Taubah 9 : 119] It is essential to have a sheikh and a living sheikh. Hadhrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) had said that he considered it necessary upon every individual to connect himself to a reliable, experienced spiritual guide (and undergo the process of Islaah and Tazkiyyah). Here too, we should keep in mind the following: Not only is there a need to have a Sheikh who is living, but a Sheikh who we can make Mashwarah with. It is to the benefit of the individual if he links up with some Sheikh-e-Kaamil. Without a Sheikh, the Mureed/Saalik will not draw the full blessings of this path. Also: It should not be that Bay`ah is taken and nothing follows thereafter. Of course, great caution needs to be exercised in choosing a Sheikh and a person should seek a Sheikh, making sincere Dua to Allah Ta’ala to guide to the one who will benefit the most. One should not be hasty in regard to taking Bay`ah. It would also only be to one’s benefit if Mashwarah is made and Istikharah is read, when there is an inclination towards any Sheikh of Tariqah. Furthermore: It is sadly a reality that some Khulafa also, become negligent or lax after the demise of their Sheikh – sometimes, even during the lifetime of the Sheikh. They then do not also make suitable guides for others. May Allah Ta’ala save us all. It was for this reason that Hadhrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) would present a yearly list of his Khulafa, so that people are aware who could be taken as a worthy spiritual guide. Anyone whose Khilafat was withdrawn – due to laxity or some other valid reason, would not be included in the list. May Allah Ta’ala guide us all and grant us the appreciation of our Mashaa'ik. Link to blog : http://hameediyyah.blogspot.com/

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem Abusing one’s parents is the recipe for disaster in one’s life. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said that Allah Ta’ala postpones the punishment for every sin for as long as He wishes, but the calamity which follows disobedience to parents comes very soon. In fact, Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) categorised the disobedience of parents as a Major sin. The Hadeeth states : “Allah defers (the punishment of) all sins to the Day of Resurrection excepting disobedience to parents, for which Allah punishes the sinner in this life, before his death.” Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh)

Quitting smoking, drinking, drug-taking or gambling... Bismihi Ta'ala “Anything that takes a person away from the obedience and remembrance of Allah Ta’ala, can neither contain any goodness, nor have any merit. Negligence in one’s relationship with Allah Ta’ala inevitably draws loss upon loss, in this world and the next.” “Kicking the Habit” is a compilation of different prescriptions and advices given by Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) which were found to be extremely beneficial for those sincerely wanting to quit their bad habits of smoking, drinking, drug-taking or gambling. This book will motivate those who read it with an open mind and are keen to give up their bad habits, Insha-Allah. Read the book here

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem We have been taught by Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam), that on seeing a sick person, we should read a certain Dua, the blessings of which are such, that we will be protected from that same sickness. So when we see a line of patients outside a hospital, or we visit the sick, we quietly read the Dua: "All praise is due to Allah who has saved me from that with which He afflicted you and gave me excellence over most of whom He created.[1]" When we see a line of people cueing up in front of a cinema, or engaging in sins, then these people arespiritually sick. We should read the same Dua, and we should also express gratitude to Allah Ta’ala for protecting us – otherwise we too could be in those same sins. Added to this, make sincere Dua that Allah Ta’ala grants Hidayah[2] to these people who are spiritually sick. Just as we do not look down upon a person who is physically sick, we should not look down upon one who is indulging in sins. He is spiritually sick and in greater need of treatment and medication, than the patient with physical ailments. [1] This Dua should not be read aloud, such that the person hears, since it could hurt his feelings. [2] Hidayah: guidance

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem By Hadhrat Moulana Abdul Hamid Is’haq Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum) When we were in Jamaat, in about the year 1400 Hijri (1979), we met an elderly priest, who had accepted Islam. He was about 80 years of age and was from France. Prior to his acceptance of Islam, he was drawn to and loved Islam and the Muslims very greatly and very dearly. On that basis, he built a Masjid for the Muslims in his locality, since the Muslims had no place of worship. On completion of the Masjid, he handed the keys of the Masjid to them so that they could commence with and establish their Salaah in congregation. …Sadly, as is common, those Muslims began to fight amongst themselves as to who would be the chairman, the secretary, etc. The priest then took the keys back and said to them: “I did not have the Masjid built for fights and arguments. I had it build for the Ibaadah (worship) of Allah (Jalla Jalaaluhu)!” Alhamdulillah, Allah Ta’ala opened all doors for his Hidayat (Guidance) and he accepted Islam. On meeting him, he shared with us three special advices. They were: 1. “Never give up the Azaan. …Wherever you are, always call out the Azaan. You people do not know what effect the Azaan has on us Christians! We enjoy hearing the words of Azaan!" Of course, this does not mean that we increase the volume of our mike-systems and wake up the entire neighbourhood at the time of Fajr. There must be consideration also for the non-Muslims, who will be sleeping. At such a time, the mike system should not be used. Disturbing them – especially in the early hours of the morning, when they are asleep – creates animosity towards Islam and Muslims. They then object to us having Masaajid and having our programmes, because of our inconsideration. Then we are a poor reflection of the noble teachings of Islam! May Allah Ta'ala guide us and give us the understanding. 2. “Always perform your Salaah – wherever you are! …Whether it is the Masjid, along the roadside, at a filling station, railway station, etc., perform your Salaah. …The postures of Salaah have a tremendous effect on our hearts. The Ruku – the posture of bowing down, and the Sajdah – the posture of prostrating, impacts upon our hearts greatly.” …On one occasion, after spending time with my Sheikh, Hadhrat Moulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh), I was returning home from Nigel. Since the Salaah time had set in, I stopped at a filling station and read my Salaah on one side. After completing the Salaah, the petrol attendant came up to me and asked me: “What were you doing?” I explained to him about Salaah and he responded: “This is wonderful! I love it! I will also do this every night before going to bed!” On another occasion, when returning from Durban by air, we arrived at sunset. When I entered the terminal building of the OR Tambo airport, I completed my Maghrib Salaah, on one side. Not aware, but the security personnel was observing me all the time. After the Salaah, he approached me and enquired from me as to what I was doing. Again, I explained to him that I was praying, etc. He also expressed his great appreciation at such a wonderful prayer, with such beautiful postures! Sadly, we do not appreciate what Allah Jalla Jalaaluhu and His Rasul (Sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) have given to us, of this beautiful and perfect Dien! …The enemies of Islam, understanding the effect of our Salaah, have deliberately accommodated us with prayer rooms at airport terminals and other places. This is with the intention that our prayers be concealed and hidden away from the people; otherwise the Salaah, on its own, is a great means of Da’wah and invitation to Islam. We think it is a noble gesture that they grant us facilities for Salaah but the reality is that they do not want our Salaah to be seen – because of its great influence and sway on hearts! The third advice given by the elderly French Muslim was: 3. “Never give up your Islamic dressing. You do not realise it, but this dressing leaves a deep impression on our hearts and has a very great influence upon us! …The Sunnah Libaas and the beard have always been the dressing of the Men of Allah and its beauty and Noor draws hearts…. The same effect is felt when seeing those Muslim women covered in their modest and concealing dressing (that is, the Hijaab and Niqaab).” These were the advices of a learned priest who had accepted Islam. He was not making any assumptions. He was presenting these advices from experience and observation. Many first hand experiences prove these same advices to be so true. After my studies, when I returned to South Africa, I had to travel by bus, from Primrose to Germiston Location, where I was teaching. On the third day, a lady also boarded the bus at the same point. She asked me, with admiration and astonishment: “Are you Jesus?!” Subhanallah! They have such admiration and appreciation for this honourable dress. Sadly and most unfortunately, we Muslims have lost our spiritual bearings and are taken with the immodest fashion and dress of the non-Muslims! In the early days, in Germiston, I had decided to buy a washing machine. In those days, washing machines were hardly being used. Clothes were washed by hand. However, we did not want to keep a helper, so I thought to make the household chores lighter, by buying a washing machine. On the morning of one Jumu’ah, I went to have a look at the different washing machines. In one shop, there were two very elderly white ladies, who belonged to the church. When I entered the shop, they were so taken by my dressing – the Kurta Libaas - that they virtually made Tawaaf around me and in great admiration and joy and amazement, they expressed their great appreciation at the dressing. Really, Allah Ta’ala has blessed us with extremely great favours, but we just take them for granted at best; otherwise we show such ingratitude that we totally discard this way of life of Islam for a rotten life which the enemies of Islam are also sick and tired of! A very great and pious Aalim, Moulana Sulaiman Aananwi (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) was visiting his friends in Hekpoort, who were also very pious people. It was a Saturday afternoon and he expressed his desire to take a walk down to the river. The others tried to discourage him because on the way there were Afrikaner people residing and they would probably be sitting on the stoep at the front of their houses. They thought that if these Afrikaner people saw them and saw Moulana dressed in the Sunnah clothing, they would laugh and make a mockery of them! However, Moulana was persistent, and so they went, and as they approached the house, the Afrikaner people called them. These Muslim brothers were sure that they would be laughed and teased. …But what did they say?! They said: “As long as you people dressed like this – in the way of your Messenger (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) - we had great respect for you people. …When you would do hawking, we invited you into our homes, and gave you coffee to drink, since you would not have eaten our food. We gave you places in our homes to sleep and called you Abraam (a term of great respect for the followers of Hadhrat Ibraheem (Alaihis Salaam)). However, when you started dressing like this, pointing to the other people, in shirt and trousers, we lost all respect for you people and started calling you 'koolies' (a very derogatory term)!” In the early days, I had to take Aapaa, my wife, for passport photographs. I chose to take her to a photo studio which was owned by a lady. My wife related that when the lady saw her in her complete Burqaa, she was astonished and amazed and said: “I read about this in books but never imagined I would see anybody dressing like this!” She asked to have an interview with Aapa and asked for details about the Islamic dressing and how Aapa managed to wear this kind of dress, etc. Alhamdulillah, at the end of the conversation, she accepted that this is the most ideal, the safest and the perfect way of dressing for a woman. The same lady also told us that around that time, about 1972, the ruling Nationalist Government was considering giving Muslims, more rights, for their honourable character and values of life. However, for various reasons they found it difficult to implement. In that time, there were only a very few Muslim ladies wearing the Burqah and being fully covered. To the best of what I can remember, in those days, where we lived, Aapaa was the only Muslimah in Hijaab and Burqa. Later, I came to know that Moulana Sulaiman Aananwi’s (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) wife was also in Burqa; fully covered. Thereafter, it was mentioned of a certain lady, in Natal, who also dressed in full Hijaab and Burqa. Around 1977, we were in Karachi, in Jamaat. We were told of an American lady who accepted Islam and came to Pakistan to spend time. Seeing the Islamic dressing of the Muslim women there, in those days, she also put on a Burqa. When she looked at herself in the mirror, she cried profusely. On being asked why she was crying so much, she replied: “This is the first time I look at myself as a woman!” …She was just too delighted and pleased! These are just a few incidents and others have had similar experiences. People have accepted Islam on hearing the beautiful Azaan, seeing the humility of Muslims in Salaah, and the noble postures of Ruku and Sujood. People have accepted Islam on seeing the dignified dressing of the Muslim – but we who are Muslims do not have that kind of spirit and zeal to implement the same in our lives. We do not have that concern of being flag-bearers of Islam and of the Sunnah. Yet, if we did, then without any speeches, we would be giving Da’wah and inviting the world to Islam, wherever we went! If only we appreciated! May Allah Ta’ala give us the understanding, the concern, and the Taufeeq of practising on Dien, entirely. And may Allah Ta’ala make our practice of Islam a means of Hidayah for whoever comes into contact with us. And nothing is difficult for Allah Ta'ala. Link to blog : http://hameediyyah.blogspot.com/

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

Recognizing Truth and Falsehood Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel (Rahmatullahi 'alayh) Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem Our respected Shaykh, Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) often encouraged the recitation of the following Dua, in these times of great Fitnah. It is a beautiful Dua, attributed to Hazrat Abu Bakr (Radhiyallahu anhu), whereby we ask Allah Ta’ala to make apparent to us, what is Haq and Baatil, and grant us the Taufeeq and ability to follow what is Haq and stay away and refrain from whatever is Baatil. The Dua is as follows: اَللّٰهُمَّ اَرِنَا الْحَقَّ حَقًّا وَّ ارْزُقْنَا اتِّبَاعَهٗ وَ اَرِنَا الْبَاطِلَ بَاطِلًا وَّ ارْزُقْنَا اجْتِنَابَهٗ O Allah! Enable us to see the Truth as Truth and give us the ability to follow it. And show us the falsehood as false and give us the ability to refrain from it. This Dua is a lesson for the Ummah. It teaches the Ummah – especially people like us, living in these times of great Fitnah, where for many, Baatil is no longer regarded as Baatil and Haq is no longer regarded as Haq. Looking at these times, we see people from all walks of life, research Islam, and come to conclusions which are in conflict with what Islam truly is. We see Muslims who speak about the need for Haraam to be Halaal, such as interest taking and giving. We see Muslims, influenced by the different “isms”, misinterpret Islam, and clamour for changes in Shari'ah, or call for a modern approach, living in modern times - Na uzu Billahi min zaalik. There is such an onslaught of Baatil and so many, so many are caught up in that assault; in that ambush. In this Dua, اَللّٰهُمَّ اَرِنَا الْحَقَّ حَقًّا وَّ ارْزُقْنَا اتِّبَاعَهٗ O Allah! Enable us to see the Truth as Truth and give us the ability to follow it. ...we learn that knowing Haq is not sufficient. …Because there are many who know Haq, but do not practice on it. Who does not know that pornography is Haraam? Who does not know that adultery is Haraam? That to gamble, take or give interest, miss Salaah, speak lies, commit fraud, etc. is Haraam? Generally, Muslims are acquainted with Halaal and Haraam. However, despite knowing, many of us do not practice. There is no Salaah, Zakaah, Fasting and other Deeni obligations being fulfilled. Accordingly, the Dua continues, asking for the Taufeeq of Ittiba – the ability to practise on it; because Amal (practice) is necessary. Thereafter, Dua is made: وَ اَرِنَا الْبَاطِلَ بَاطِلًا وَّ ارْزُقْنَا اجْتِنَابَه And show us the falsehood as false and give us the ability to refrain from it. We are asking of Allah Ta’ala, that He make known to us, make apparent to us, make clear to us, whatever is Haraam, sinful, detested and disliked by Him. Often, a person sees the Haq as Baatil and vice versa. So Dua is made that we know what is Haq and what is Baatil, without any confusion and uncertainty, that we are easily able to differentiate between the two. …Like a tsunami; sin and falsehood are sweeping through the Muslim Ummah. All around us we find that Baatil is widespread. It has become the norm; it is in vogue, and the majority accepts it and engages in it. It is not even considered Haraam. Take the example of photography[1] - the good and the bad, the ignorant and even the learned ones, are caught up in this vice. No one really speaks out against it, and if a person does, he is labeled as orthodox and out-dated. The same with television[2] – If someone has to advise against viewing television, not only will people argue, they will present the “Fazaa`il” (virtues) of television – despite 80% of those programmes being clearly immoral and Haraam. …But nafs and shaytaan blind the person to Haraam and to the great harms, and the person sees only benefit … The sad condition and plight of the Ummah is gauged when we see the extent of Baatil in our personal lives, and we see how the culture and customs of the Kuffaar have become dominant and have replaced practical implementation of Islam – and everyone is quite content and comfortable living with that. …When the Sahaba (Radhiyallahu 'Anhum) accepted Islam, despite the majority of them coming out of Kufr and Shirk, there was no sign of Kufr in their lives thereafter. We were born and brought up in Islam. We have Islam, but the culture of the Kuffaar is found in all dimensions of our lives – our homes, our businesses, our Nikahs and Walimas, our dressing… Sometimes there is no trace of Islam. …Inna Lillahi wa-inna ilayhi raji’oon. In this Dua, the word “warzuqna” is used. My respected Shaykh, Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) beautifully explained that just as we search for our Rizq, we look forward to it, we enjoy it – so Haq should become like our Rizq. …Like how we seek sustenance, in the same way, we should seek good deeds – with eagerness and enthusiasm. From the early hours of the morning, millions of people are on the move, traveling by car, bus, train, plane – active in the effort of sustenance... and there seems to be no satisfaction when it comes to wanting more and more of the material world. Even if a person is multi-rich, we find the person is still seeking for more. There is just no contentment even in sufficiency. In this Dua, we are asking that we are not content except pursuing the Rizq of Haq, the Rizq of Ibaadah, the Rizq of Sawaab. Ittiba of Haq must become our spiritual Rizq… and this Haq includes both the rights of Allah Ta’ala and the rights of creation – of parents, of wife (or husband), of children, neighbours, and others. Furthermore, we all know that we require food for our survival. …When a person has not eaten in many days, his hearing is affected, his sight is affected, his speech is affected. Weakness sets in. Similarly, without the spiritual nourishment of Haq – knowing it and practicing on it, Imaan will weaken and will deteriorate, on all fronts. Added to this, the Hadeeth informs us: “No soul will die until it completes its sustenance.” - A person does not die until he has eaten the last grain of food which is destined for him. In a similar vein, we are asking for Allah Ta’ala that Haq be the same to us, that we complete our lives on the Rizq of Haq, that our lives end on Haq, on Imaan. We are also asking for Taufeeq to stay away from sin, with the same kind of happiness as when we seek our Rizq; that we look forward to restraining ourselves from all Haraam. Just as a Muslim does not go out in search of pigs for his Rizq; rather he keeps clear of pigs and pork – so too, should he stay away from Baatil. Just as pigs are Haraam, so too is everything else that is classified as sin. Unfortunately, we find that many seek out Haraam. They plan and make arrangements for indulgence in Haraam - going to the cinemas, casinos, visiting porn sites, taking and giving interest, etc. May Allah Ta’ala protect us all. Both, abstinence from sins and doing good deeds must be as we find our sustenance – enjoyable. This, in turn, will bring happiness and Sukoon. If this becomes the condition of a person: He pursues good deeds with that kind of eagerness and abstains from sins, with that kind of happiness, as sustenance is enjoyed, the person becomes a Waliullah (A Friend of Allah Ta'ala). We should learn this Dua, teach it to others and frequently recite it. May Allah Ta'ala grant us Taufeeq. [1] Read Hazrat Maulana’s (RA) discussion on “The Prohibition of Photography” HERE [2] Read Hazrat Maulana’s (RA) article, “The Influence of Television” HERE By Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh)

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem All Branch offices have a connection with the Head Office. In a similar vein, all the branch offices of sins have their connection with the Head Office of Jahannum. The Fire of Jahannum is the Head Office, and the areas and deeds of disobedience are the Branch Offices. Allah Ta’ala inflicts some of that fire which is burning in Hell into the heart and life of a person, in this world, when he indulges in sins. Restlessness and misery burns the heart to such a degree that the likeness is that of those who will enter Jahannum. Allah Ta’ala describes this condition : “... Who will enter the great fire in which he will then neither die nor live (a life of comfort).” [surah Al-A’la : 12/13] Similarly, the branch offices of good deeds have their connection with the Head Office of Jannah. The person who engages in good deeds will experience within his heart and life, a beautiful, fresh garden.

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem Hadhrat Moulana Abdul Hamid Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum) During a trip to the United Kingdom, I gave a talk in a Masjid in London. In the vicinity of the Masjid, Jews predominantly reside. In that talk, I mentioned that once, when Haaji Bhai Padia (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) was travelling by air, a Jewish Rabbi was seated next to him. In conversation, the Jewish Rabbi said to Haaji Bhai Padia (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh): “We are not afraid of the Muslims today, because Allah’s help is not with them, nor with us. Today, everything is about power: The one who has more arms and more ammunition, wins. We have more, and we are more powerful. However, when the Mosques (Masaajid) of the Muslims start filling up for the Fajr prayer as the Masjids get full for the Jumu’ah prayer, we will not be able to fight the Muslims, because Allah’s help will be with them, and we can never overcome the one who is assisted by Allah.” After this talk, a young man came to me and informed me that he is from India (or Pakistan). He said: “I go home once a year. Each time, on my return, my neighbour, who is Jew, asks me: ‘How many people are attending the Fajr prayer?’ …This is the question posed to me every time. Once, I asked him: ‘Why do you always ask me this same question?’ He said: ‘Today, we have no fear for the Muslims, but when their Masjids get full for the Fajr prayer as they do for Jumu’ah, we will not fight them as Allah’s help will be with them and we cannot fight Allah.” Abdullah S’aud is a brother from South America, whose homeland is Palestine. He related that he was a little child when his family was exiled to South America. At that time, Ariel Sharon mentioned to the father of Abdullah S’aud: “You will come back; but not today and not tomorrow. You will come back when your Masjids are full for Fajr like how they are for Jumu’ah.” We clamour and we shout and we cry, for the rise of Islam, yet we do not rise for the Fajr Salaah. Our hypocrisy becomes evident in the light of the Ahadith. There is no doubt of a person’s Nifaaq (hypocrisy) if he is absent from the Fajr and Isha Salaah, in the Masjid. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “The most burdensome prayers for the hypocrites are ‘Isha and Fajr, but if they only knew what they contain, they would come even if they had to crawl.”[1] Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “A person who does not go for Salaah after hearing the Azaan is committing a great wrong and is doing an act of Kufr (disbelief) and Nifaaq (hypocrisy).”[2] Hadhrat Abdullah Ibn Mas’ud (Radhiyallahu ‘anhu) had said: “If you neglect the Sunnah, you will go astray. Verily, I have seen a time when no one stayed away from the congregational prayers except for the hypocrites who were well known for their hypocrisy or a sick man. I remember that a man would be brought leaning on two men and put in the Saff (row) to attain its reward and escape the sins of missing it.”[3] If the entire Ummah performed Salaah - established Salaah - the entire Ummah would be in the protection of Allah Ta’ala, the One who is Al-Mighty and All-Powerful. No power on the surface of the earth will be able to overcome or defeat a people in the special protection of Allah Ta’ala. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “Whoever prays the dawn prayer (Fajr), then He is under Allah’s protection. So beware, O son of Aadam, that Allah does not call you to account for being absent from His protection for any reason.”[4] Boycotting, sanctioning and marching may find a place in bringing attention to injustice and crippling an economy but they do not draw the assistance of Allah Ta’ala. The assistance of Allah Ta’ala comes only with obedience to Allah Ta’ala and with conforming to the Sunnah. Muslims, today, see some kind of solution in marching and boycotting – but sadly, do not see the solution where it is: In practically implementing the teachings of the Qur’aan and Sunnah. We will only overcome the forces of Zionism and the enemies of Islam taking the route of obedience to Allah Ta’ala and His Rasul (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam). Our condition is that Salaah is neglected; the beautiful Sunnah is disregarded - there is no care and no concern to identify ourselves with Rasulullah (Sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam), by adopting the Sunnah Libaas (dress/garb), maintaining the beard one fist length and following in his noble footsteps. ...The majority do not want to give up the song and dance, the interest and gambling, the western culture or the Hollywood/Bollywood culture, and all other sins. ...Then how will we invite Allah Ta’ala’s Nusrah[5], in this manner? Allah Ta'ala has His conditions. These will have to be met first, before we can overcome our enemies. Allah Ta’ala clearly defines His conditions and His promises: “Allah has promised, to those among you who believe and perform righteous deeds, that He will, of surety, grant them in the land, inheritance (of power), as He granted it to those before them… So establish Salaah (Prayer) and give regular Charity (Zakaah); and obey the Messenger that you may receive mercy. ” [surah Nur 24 : 55 / 56] The Sahaba-e-Kiraam (Radhiyallahu ‘anhum) were able to overcome the super powers of their time because they were living Islam. The keys of Masjid-e-Aqsa were willingly handed over to Hadhrat Umar (Radhiyallahu ‘anhu), the Ameerul Mu’mineen, whose reign as the Khalifa saw the establishment of justice on the face of the earth. This justice was through the implementation of the Qur’aan Sharief and Sunnah and standing firm and resolute on its teachings. Hadhrat Umar (Radhiyallahu ‘anhu), himself, said: “We are a people whom Allah Ta’ala elevated with Islam.” – i.e. true and sincere submission to Allah Ta’ala. We talk about Masjid-e-Aqsa and the violation and desecration of Masjid-e-Aqsa by the Israeli Zionist forces. However, the condition of Masjid-e-Aqsa is only a reflection of the condition of the Ummah at large. Sheikh ‘Ali Abbaasi, the Imam of Masjid-e-Aqsa, had asked Hadhrat Mufti Ebrahim Salejee (Daamat Barakaatuhum), the principal of Madrasah Taleemuddeen, about the sad and distressing condition of Palestine and asked why there is no support from the Muslim countries. Hadhrat Mufti Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum) explained that he had read in the Tafsier of Hadhrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) that Allah Ta’ala has different systems for Masjidul Haraam in Makkatul Mukarramah and for Masjidul Aqsa. Hadhrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (Rahmatullahi ‘Alayh) had explained in his Tafsier that Masjidul Haraam is continuously under the protection of Allah Ta’ala. The Kuffaar will not be able to gain control of Baitullah, and the condition of the Muslim Ummah does not affect this protection. This protection has no interruption. The condition of Masjid-e-Aqsa is centred and based on the condition of the Muslim Ummah. If the Ummah is obedient to Allah Ta’ala, then Masjid-e-Aqsa would be in their full control. If the Ummah is in the disobedience of Allah Ta’ala, then the Muslim Ummah loses control of Masjid-e-Aqsa and the land of Palestine. Control is handed over to our enemies. This is what we see today. A great majority of the Muslim Ummah are heedless of the Commandments of Allah Jalla Jalaaluhu; even engaging recklessly in sins. We raise our voices against the Israeli Zionist forces who desecrate our beloved Masjid-e-Aqsa; we march against the injustice, we wave the Palestinian flag everywhere, and we wear its colours in some way or the other - all in solidarity. ...However, if we are not performing Salaah and if, in our lives, there is disobedience to Allah Ta'ala, then let us understand the very, very sad reality: We are instrumental in the desecration and violation of Masjid-e-Aqsa and the oppression of the Palestinian people. Then our role is not constructive; rather it is destructive - because we are a contributing factor to the Israelis having control of Masjid-e-Aqsa. Imam Maalik (Rahmatullahi 'alayh) had said so aptly, in his time: "The last generations of the Ummah can only be reformed by that which reformed its first generations. What was not part of the religion then, cannot become part of the religion now." The first step is establishing Salaah in our lives and working towards bringing the whole of Islam into our lives, practically. If we really want to solve our problems, this is the only way. May Allah Ta’ala forgive us, have mercy upon us, guide us, and grant us the understanding and the Taufeeq of becoming practical on Dien. [1] Sahih Al-Bukhari [2] Musnad Ahmad ibn Hambal, Al-Mu’jamul Kabeer Tabrani [3] Riyaadhus Sawliheen, Mishkatul Masaabih [4] Ibn Majah [5] Nusrah : Divine Assistance

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem My Shaykh, Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh), repeatedly said that if a person adopts the garb or outer features of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam) and the Sawliheen (pious) who follow, then the soul of righteousness will come into his body. For example : Keeping the Sunnah length beard, pants above the ankles (which has been greatly emphasised in the Hadeeth Shareef), the dressing, eating, sleeping, trading and so forth, in conformity with the Sunnah. Hazrat mentioned that he once told a person in Karachi to keep a beard. Not only did this person refuse to do so, he made a joke of this. Allah Ta’ala caused a sickness to afflict him. As a result, pus would ooze out from his cheek. He therefore grew a beard and still had the audacity to say: “I kept it, not because it is a Sunnat, but to cover my wound.” (Na-oozu Billah) One of Hazrat’s Khalifas, who is also a poet, says : If the beard was going to make a person look ugly, it would not have been the Sunnah of my Beloved (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam). The person who is clean-shaven is – as if - ‘announcing’ : I am not happy with the face of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam). – Na’uzu Billah The beauty of a man is his beard. There are a group of angels who read the following Tasbeeh[1] : “Glory be to Allah, who gave beauty to men with their beards and who gave beauty to women with their locks of hair.” [1] Tasbeeh : incantation

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem By Hadhrat Moulana Abdul Hamid Is`haq Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum) When I was lecturing at the Rand Afrikaans University, a professor, who was head of the department, mentioned to me, during a conversation: “The day the Primary Level Religious Institutions (Makaatib) do not exist, the Muslim community will exist as a professional community and as a business community – but they will not exist as a Muslim community anymore.” It was at that point that I realized the agenda and planning of the enemies of Islam. They were systematically trying to break down the structure of Dien, which had been established in South Africa. Their foremost effort was and is drawing the Muslims to their secular institutions – primary, secondary and tertiary - where they would further break down the individual’s Dien – until the mind-set, the lifestyle and the beliefs become secular! Then we would be Muslim in name, but not in identity and not in our outlook – perhaps not even in belief. …May Allah Ta’ala protect us all. And this is what we see today: The modern secular-educated Muslim lives a life which is not aligned to the Qur’aan and Sunnah, in the true sense. There is a wide chasm created between the individual andtrue Islam. This is the effort of secularists in their quest to alienate all of mankind from religion. For many, a modern and “moderate” Islam is accommodated, where the trends and whims of the non-Muslim society are also adopted. Many customs, which have no affiliation with Islam and which may even be prohibited, are legitimised. Intermingling of sexes, adopting the dress and the ways of the disbelievers, etc. are proof of the outcome of secular education. The Ulama are considered outdated and orthodox and are criticised for holding onto what has passed on from generation to generation of the pure and pristine Dien of Islam. On listening to the professor, I understood that the university – and other such western secular institutions of learning – had a specific and detailed strategy to harm the Muslim community. I thus resigned from the post of lecturing. It should be understood that worldly education is permissible in Islam. This is not objectionable. It is a fact that Muslims have been pioneers and forerunners in the field of science, medicine, mathematics, etc. They were great inventors. Their contribution to the progress and advancement of mankind is distinct. The knowledge that is being rejected is that knowledge which deliberately aims at cutting man off from religion, from his Creator. And this is the knowledge which has been given the name, “secular” – by its architects. If a person had to do a little research, then just the definition of secularism exposes the aim of secularists. Secularism is a system which removes and even rejects all forms of religious faith and worship. Secularism demands that religion - if it believed in – should be a private affair and not a public one – and that religion should play no part in education or politics. Most secularists are themselves atheists. One article also explained: “They (Secularists) think that religious schools are divisive (disruptive/incompatible), and damage the prospects of a harmonious and diverse society.” So it follows that their efforts will be to eradicate religious institutions. This is being done by engrossing man in the pursuit of materialism, entertainment and anything that diverts his attention away from religion or wanting to be religious. Man thus becomes far removed from the religious institutions until he sees no need for religion and no need for such institutions. The Darul Ulooms are the bastions, the strongholds of Dien. They are the forts of Islam. It is in the Darul Uloom that we find Dien being taught, comprehensively, meticulously and fully. The Ulama are the shields of Islam; they are a great means of protection for the Ummah, preserving Islam in its pristine purity. The Maktab is the backbone of the Ummah and establishes a strong faith in Allah Ta’ala. Tauheed [1], Risaalat [2] and Aakhirat [3], which are the principles of Dien, are well-grounded in our children. This is what assists in making them firm Believers in Allah Ta’ala. …Wherever, in the world, there is no establishment of the Maktab system, the people there, easily lose their direction in Dien. We see, in our own society, how the secular institutions – that is, the non-Muslim institutions of learning - keep our children occupied fully in everything other than religion. They have extracurricular and extramural activities. They have various events and functions which consume time. Our Muslim children are thus greatly hindered from attending the Maktab and Madrasah on a regular basis. In this manner, our children are kept away from connecting with Dien and improving in their Dien. Parents look to give their children the best secular education; they may consider the prestige and status of attending such institutions, but sadly, they do not look at the repercussions to the Dien and Imaan of their children. And there is no doubt that this kind of education is at the great cost of our children’s Dien – if only we would take understanding. We are dealing with different cases and we are seeing the results. Huge amounts of money are being paid for the destruction of our children’s Imaan. We may not see this today or tomorrow. Secularists have a long-term strategy. Over the twelve years of schooling and thereafter the years of tertiary education, they groom, they tutor and they prepare students in such a way, that when they complete their education or when they graduate, they leave the institution with a secular mind, with material aspirations and ambitions, and generally, with an aversion to religion – because religion is played out as a system that restricts, and secular education promotes freedom on every level. They train them to fit into a western secular society, into a system where they are just pawns – used to support and strengthen the system, where religion is not allowed to feature. Very recently, I met a young Muslim brother who is studying at a tertiary institution. In conversation, I enquired of him, what subjects he studied – and he mentioned history. So I asked regarding the history of mankind. He replied: “Darwin’s theory of evolution. We come from an ape…” He honestly believed that his ancestors were apes or monkeys. When I asked him about the creation of the universe, he responded : “The big bang theory…” Inna Lillahi wa inna ilayhi ra’jioon. These beliefs are in total conflict with Imaan and Islam. In fact, it is Kufr – because Allah Ta’ala has already explained the creation of man in the Qur`aan Sharief. Darwin’s theory is a rejection of the Qur’aan Sharief. Sadly, the brother did not see anything wrong with what he explained. This is one of too many cases that we have dealt with. Many are Muslims from good Muslim homes but this secular education has indoctrinated in their minds, the false belief that they have evolved from a monkey or ape. Today, Darwinism, evolution and the big bang theory are taught in pre-schools, in primary, secondary and tertiary institutions. These ideologies are impressed in the minds of our children and as a result, many Muslims are very confused in their beliefs. Hadhrat Moulana Ashraf Ali Thanwi (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) had said that the people censure and slate the Ulama regarding their stance on secular education. However, the Ulama are looking at the consequences of the modern secular curriculum and have therefore adopted this position. They are against that education which leads to rejection of religion and which leads to atheism. Hadhrat Moulana (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) had said that were we to take note of what is actually happening, we would observe that generally, the modern secular-educated people are unconcerned about Salaah, about maintaining the identity of the Muslim, and they do not heed the other commands of the Shari'ah. They may go against it, criticize it, and even proclaim Islam to be regressing and out-dated. Na’uzu Billah. …Of course, there are some exceptions. Those Ulama were blessed with foresight and understood the purpose of the introduction of western secular education. Without Dieni education, the western secular system asserts and establishes an “Anti-God”, “Anti-Religion” frame of mind. And we should understand that without Dien and without Imaan, Jannat is lost. The consequences are far reaching and extremely grave. The Hereafter is the destination and there are only two places of residence: Jannat or Jahannum. The opportunity of this worldly life is not given to us to secure the worldly life - but it is to secure the Pleasure of Allah Ta'ala and salvation in the Hereafter. Reflect for a while: What accompanies us when we depart from this world? With the exception of a shroud, none of our material possessions, no matter how beloved, will be taken with us. What will be taken are our deeds. When the reality of death manifests itself and the door to the Hereafter is opened, then our worldly qualifications and degrees won't matter, but our faith will be all that matters. We need to prioritize here and now and without any delay, if we want the best of the next life – for ourselves and for our children. May Allah Ta'ala give us the understanding. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the concern regarding our Dieni education and that of our children. ___________ [1] Tauheed : The Oneness of Allah Ta'ala [2] Risalat : The mission of the Messengers (in conveying the message of Dien) [3] Aakhirah : There Hereafter

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem Laughter should be like salt in a curry or chutney with food. Too much salt or only chutney is not going to be desirous. So within limits if a person laughs or makes others laugh, this is not sinful. In fact, to put happiness into the heart of another is a Sunnah which draws rewards. However, too much of laughter is spiritually harmful. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) cautioned us: ‘Do not laugh too much, for excessive laughter deadens the heart.’[1] The trend of frequenting comedy shows and paying for hours of laughter and entertainment, the content of which is shameless and indecent is not at all condoned. In fact, it is Haraam. In these days, many comedy shows target Islam and the beautiful Sunnah. Islam becomes the brunt of mockery. This is extremely dangerous for a person’s Imaan. Allah Ta’ala, the All-Wise, did not create us for a useless purpose, that we squander valuable time in worthless – nay, in destructive past times: "Did you then think that We had created you in jest, and that you would not be brought back to Us (for account)?" [surah Al-Mu`minoon 23 : 115] [1] Ibn Majah

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem By Hadhrat Moulana Abdul Hamid Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum) We are living in such times, where we see the words of Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) in regard to the end of this world, becoming a reality, with each passing day. Rasulullah (Sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said about the signs of the final day: “Signs following one another like the pieces of a necklace falling, one after the other, when its string is cut.”[1] All around, we see the manifestation of the signs of Qiyamah. Some – as mentioned in different Ahadith – are: natural disasters will increase, time will pass swiftly, afflictions will appear, massacre, bloodshed and killing will increase, the murderer will not know as to why he has killed and the slain will not know as to why he has been murdered, the widespread prevalence of music and adultery, women will be naked in spite of being dressed, children will be disobedient to their parents, great injustice will fill the earth, etc. There are just waves and waves of darknesses hitting mankind – in the form of various tribulations and trials. And man is in a state of self-destruction due to his indulgence in sins. Having read an interesting article on the octopus, an analogy came to mind, considering the Fitnahs this Ummah and all of mankind are facing. Like a giant venomous octopus spreading its eight arms, the forces of evil are spreading throughout the world. Via the media, evil spreads speedily and instantly in all directions. It is said that an octopus releases a thick cloud of black ink to confuse its predators. We find that these forces of shaytaan spread darkness to confuse all of mankind. Shaytaan is man’s open enemy – so when it comes to the destruction of man, there is no mercy. Allah Ta’ala warns and cautions us: إِنَّ الشَّيْطٰنَ لَكُمَا عَدُوٌّ مُّبِيْنٌ ◌ “…Verily shaytaan is an open enemy unto you.” [surah Al-A`raaf 7 : 22] إِنَّ الشَّيْطٰنَ لَكُمْ عَدُوٌّ فَاتَّخِذُوْهُ عَدُوّاً ط “Surely shaytaan is an enemy to you, so treat him as an enemy…” [surah Fatir 35:6] It is also said that this black cloud of ink has a special substance that dulls senses. Similarly we find thatthese Fitnahs and these “Isms” dull the spiritual senses. …As an example: Today, music is accepted, by perhaps the majority of Muslims, as entertainment and relaxation – whereas, it is Haraam and it only nourishes Nifaaq (hypocrisy) in the heart. This is darkness that spreads in the heart. It not only dulls Roohaaniyyat (spirituality), it destroys it. Rasulullah (Sallallahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “Music causes hypocrisy to grow in the heart just as water causes crops to grow.”[2] Similarly, alcohol, drugs, gambling, interest taking and giving, adultery and every other sin clouds the spiritual vision and judgement and ‘numbs’ the soul. With eight arms the octopus gains a firm grip over its prey. It gives a nasty bite and has poisonous and deadly saliva to subjugate and overpower its prey. It injects its prey in such a way that it paralyses it and then it dismembers and tears it into small pieces with its beak. These Fitnahs and these sins and these false ideologies bite and paralyse Imaan. They poison the spiritual heart, sometimes fully destroying the person’s Imaan, and they dismember and tear apart the person's entire Dien. This is how shaytaan assaults and attacks. As a result, we find that very sadly, the majority of mankind, have become blinded by these darknesses and have even become spiritually dead in the grip of these satanic “Isms”. It is a known fact, that the octopus is not the king or master in the oceans. We have the great white sharks and we have the killer whales and other sea creatures that are known as apex predators. They are, by far, much, much bigger and stronger than the octopus. In fact, the octopus would not attack such powerful predators. Like the octopus, shaytaan’s influence and his power are limited. Even though, his influence is evident, Allah Ta’ala informs us that his conspiracies and schemes are weak. إِنَّ كَيْدَ الشَّيْطٰنِ كَانَ ضَعِيْفًا ◌ “Surely the plot of shaytaan is ever feeble.” [surah An-Nisaa 4 : 76] When we establish a strong connection with Allah Ta’ala, with obedience and submission to Allah Ta’ala’s Commands and we become the friends of Allah Ta’ala, then Allah Ta’ala protects from the mischief of nafs and shaytaan and from the Fitnahs that abound in the world. Allah Ta’ala makes this known: إِنَّهٗ لَيْسَ لَهٗ سُلْطٰنٌ عَلَى الَّذِيْنَ اٰمَنُوْا وَعَلٰى رَبِّهِمْ يَتَوَكَّلُوْنَ ◌ “Verily, he (shaytaan) has no power over those who believe and put their trust only in their Lord (Allah Ta’ala).” [surah An-Nahl 16 : 99] Allah Ta’ala’s Protection is with those who believe and trust in Him. Allah Ta’ala also grants spiritual strength to overcome and foil the plans and attacks of both nafs and shaytaan. However, those who follow shaytaan, by engaging in sins and immorality, are the ones who become the victims and easy prey of shaytaan: إِنَّمَا سُلْطٰنُهٗ عَلَى الَّذِيْنَ يَتَوَلَّوْنَهٗ وَالَّذِيْنَ هُمْ بِهٖ مُشْرِكُوْنَ ◌ ‘His power is only over those who obey and follow him (shaytaan).’ [surah An-Nahl 16 : 100] In these challenging times, we need to guard ourselves against these Fitnahs, by : Equipping ourselves with the correct Aqaa’id (beliefs) and knowledge of Dien, Fulfilling the Commandments of Allah Ta'ala - especially establishing Salaah, five times a day. Engaging in good deeds, plenty of Dua and Istighfaar, Giving Sadaqah and Keeping ourselves attached to the company of the Ulama-e-Haq, Mashaa’ik and the Righteous. We should also carry out the great responsibility and duty of “Amr Bil Ma’roof and Nahy anil Munkar”[3]. These are measures for our safety and Istiqaamah (steadfastness). As Muslims, there is no losing hope. Imaan is the light of the heart and our guiding light. It is our torch as we walk through the darkness of this worldly life. Practising on Dien is our shield and our fortress in these times when there is a great onslaught and ambush against Imaan and Islam. There is no tolerance shown to religion. All the Isms that circulate in the world are with the single objective of eradicating belief in Allah Ta’ala. This is the promise of shaytaan: “Because You have sent me astray, surely I will sit in wait against them (human beings) on Your Straight Path. Then I will come to them from before them and behind them, from their right and from their left, and You will not find most of them as thankful ones (i.e. they will not be dutiful to You).” [surah Al-A’raaf 7 : 16/17] Holding onto Dien, like how a drowning man holds onto a lifeline, will be our means of salvation, Insha-Allah. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the understanding and the concern, that we take measures to protect ourselves and our families in these very dangerous times. [1] Tirmidhi [2] Bayhaqi, Shu’ab al-Imaan [3] Amr Bil Ma’roof and Nahy anil Munkar :Commanding the good and forbidding the evil Link to blog : http://hameediyyah.blogspot.com/

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem There are those students who have great ambition and high aspirations for worldly success. We find that they will exert themselves in their efforts to secure excellent results in their examinations. To obtain as many A’s or distinctions, diligence and hard work become the order of the day. They ‘burn the midnight oil’ – for what? For success in this worldly life. If this is the one-tracked, single-minded effort for worldly success, what of the Muslim’s efforts to secure the success of the Hereafter? What of the many A’s that a Muslim should make every effort to obtain for success in the Hereafter: The A for Akhlaaq, the A for Aashiq[1] of Allah Ta’ala, the A for “Amal[2]”, the A for “Aabid[3]”, the A for “Aarif[4]”? Why do these As not feature in the lives of the majority? So many are very successful in their Matric examinations, but for many there is no A for Akhlaaq, no ‘A’ for Amal and other noble characteristics of the Muslim. The Muslim’s view of Success is the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala and Nabi (Sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam). In the examination of this worldly life, it is their pleasure which secures an A+. Otherwise, a person is as good as obtaining a ‘Z’. [1] Aashiq : Lover of Allah Ta’ala [2] Amal : action [3] Aabid : worshipper [4] Aarif : One who has recognition of Allah Ta’ala

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem By Hadhrat Moulana Abdul Hamid Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum) On return from our recent Safr[1], being very tired, I had a very deep sleep. I dreamt that a person should look after and protect his heart from all alien interferences, particularly the Baatil (false) sects of Shiasm, Qadianiasm, Barewilism, Salafism, etc. When I awoke and reflected over this dream, I also understood that protection is not only necessary from Baatil sects, but from every type of evil and sin as well. …As well as ideologies such as Secularism, Dawarnism and the various other 'Isms' being propagated. When in our houses, especially at night, before retiring to bed, we make sure we read all our Duas, Aayatul Kursi, etc. We also check that all the doors, windows and gates are properly closed and securely locked, and that our alarm systems are operational. We take various measures to protect ourselves, our families and our homes. When we leave home, we recite all our Duas; we check around for any signs of danger or if there is someone lurking about; we lock the doors of our cars, etc. Similarly, we should check that the doors of our hearts are firmly locked and all security measures are in place: that no wrong beliefs and no sins and no evil desires can enter the heart. Great care and vigilance must be adopted to protect the heart in these present times, where there is temptation and invitation towards Haraam – where the darkness of great Fitnah is spreading and enveloping the world – and where all kinds of sins are accessible with just a touch of the button. We need to take all precautions for the protection of our Imaan, A’maal, Akhlaaq and Taqwa, wherever we may be. Our Sheikh, Hadhrat Moulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) would encourage us to read the following Dua, in these times, where many people cannot differentiate between Haq and Baatil (Truth and Falsehood) and are easily lead astray: “O Allah! Show us (enable us to see) the Truth as Truth and give us the ability to follow it. And show us the falsehood as false and give us the ability to refrain from it.” May Allah Ta’ala grant us the understanding and the concern of securing our Imaan and Islam. [1] Safr : (Dieni) Trip

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem by Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) Allah Ta’ala states regarding the lofty act of Qurbani: لَنْ يَّنَالَ اللّٰهَ لُحُوْمُهَا وَلَا دِمَاۤؤُهَا وَلٰكِنْ يَّنَالُهُ التَّقْوٰﮮ مِنْكُمْ ط كَذٰلِكَ سَخَّرَهَا لَكُمْ لِتُكَبِّرُوا اللّٰهَ عَلٰى مَا هَدٰىكُمْ ط وَبَشِّرِ الْمُحْسِنِيْنَ ◌ “Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you. Thus have We subjected them to you that you may glorify Allah for that [to]which He has guided you; and give good tidings to the doers of good.” [surah Al-Hajj 22: 37] Sadly, despite the knowledge disseminated of the merits and virtues of Qurbani and its obligatory nature, there are many who have the ability and means, yet they still present excuses of not having the money to undertake Qurbani. I am not talking about the poor and needy who are exempt from Qurbani. I am talking about those who are sitting with so many luxuries and they still ask if Qurbani is Waajib (obligatory) or not. …Let us not take this act of Ibaadah so lightly. It is a great and very important Sunnah that has to be upheld, and it is compulsory for those who have the means to do so. Every adult Muslim, male and female, who owns 612.36 grams of silver or its equivalent in money, personal ornaments, stock-in-trade or any other form of wealth which is in excess of the person’s basic personal needs, is obligated to offer Qurbani. It is also incorrect that we only promote Qurbani as a charitable undertaking – as something to assist the poor and needy – in different parts of the world. This is what is being highlighted in our advertisements and notices: That Qurbani be undertaken to distribute to the suffering Ummah, throughout the world. Indeed, distributing to the poor is a great benefit of Qurbani. And similarly in all Ibaadaat, we will find that there are great benefits. However, the benefit is not the objective. This is something that should be understood. The objective of Hajj is not just to meet everyone on Arafat, even though it is a congregation of millions of Muslims from around the world. The objective of fasting is not to lose weight, even though we are eating far less than usual. Similarly, the objective of Qurbani is not just to feed the poor. This is not the purpose. If a person slaughters his animal or many animals, before the Eid Salaah, and then distributes all of that meat to the poor and needy, then even though that kind of generosity is very noble, every Mufti will say that the Qurbani is not valid, and for the Qurbani to be valid, it has to be done after the Eid Salaah. …In a town, if the Eid Salaah is performed at different venues, then after the first Eid Salaah, Qurbani will be valid. Added to this, there are other rules, regulations and conditions to be fulfilled and met for Qurbani to be valid. …This shows that the Qurbani animal is different. Therefore Allah Ta’ala says: لَنْ يَّنَالَ اللّٰهَ لُحُوْمُهَا وَلَا دِمَاۤؤُهَا وَلٰكِنْ يَّنَالُهُ التَّقْوٰﮮ مِنْكُمْ ط “Their meat will not reach Allah, nor will their blood, but what reaches Him is piety from you. ” [surah Al-Hajj 22: 37] So Qurbani is not charity. If Qurbani is only charity, then how can we eat of it? Can we utilize our Zakaat – or a portion of it - for ourselves? No. Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) ate from his own Qurbani – but he (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) would not eat of Sadaqah. So Qurbani should be done seeking the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala. Sadly, most people opt to give their money to different organisations, so that their Qurbani is discharged without any labour. To give money is very easy but this is not the spirit of Qurbani. If we just send our money to the neighbouring countries or overseas, then we are depriving ourselves and our children of the spirit of sacrifice. Yes, send the Nafl Qurbanis to other places – if you wish to – and where the people will benefit. However, at least make one or two at home. Let the children see and take lesson. We ourselves need to see and take lesson. In enlivening this Sunnah, we take so many beautiful lessons. The heart and the soul are stirred to move in the direction of submission to Allah Ta’ala. We see how the sheep or goat or other Qurbani animal is made to lie down, and how its gives its life in the name of Allah Ta’ala. And we take lesson that just as that sheep sacrificed its life on the Hukm of Allah Ta’ala, so we, who are the servants of Allah Ta’ala, should be sacrificing our evil desires. In fact, our whole lives should be sacrificed for Allah Ta’ala. Our respected Shaykh, Hazrat Maulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) presented a wonderful analogy. Hazrat asked: “When does the sun rise?” As we all know, it rises when the horizon turns red. Hazrat then explained: “Just as the sun rises when the horizon turns red, similarly, the suns of Allah Ta’ala’s Muhabbat and Ma’rifat will rise when the horizons of the heart turn red with the blood of one’s evil desires, which have been sacrificed for Allah Ta’ala.” Qurbani is the Sunnah of Hazrat Ibrahim (Alaihis Salaam) and we must remember that Hazrat Ibrahim (Alaihis Salaam) was not slaughtering a ram or sheep. The knife was placed on his beloved son. That was the test and what a test! After making Dua for a son and being granted a son, the Command is then to slaughter that very beloved son. Hazrat Ibrahim (Alaihis Salaam) was Khaleelullah – the Friend of Allah Ta’ala, and he proved his love for Allah Ta’ala. It was not just a claim. It was supported by his entire life – which was clear proof of Ishq. And Ishq is something, that when it comes into the heart, it cannot be hidden. It is something which is evident in speech, in action – in everything and in every way. We find that there was no questioning any of Allah Ta’ala’s Commands. There was immediate submission to every Command. …We should ask ourselves: What have we done to validate our claim of loving Allah Ta’ala and His Rasul (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam)? Hazrat Isma’eel (Alaihis Salaam) was Zabeehullah. We find that there was no objection on hearing the Command of Allah Ta’aala; only immediate submission. Imagine that scene: The son willingly and unhesitatingly tells his father to go ahead in fulfilling the Command of Allah Ta’ala. قَالَ يٰٓأَبَتِ افْعَلْ مَا تُؤْمَرُ ز سَتَجِدُنِىْٓ إِنْ شَآءَ اللّٰهُ مِنَ الصّٰبِرِيْنَ ◌ “(The son) said : ‘O my father! Do as you are commanded: You will find me, if Allah so wills, practising patience and constancy.” [surah As-Saffaat 37 : 102] Both father and son passed their tests with flying colours. And these were very great and difficult tests. … We are not being tested like that. Allah Ta’ala made it easy for us. Despite the ease, we cannot even put the knife on our Haraam desires … yet, if we sacrifice our Haraam desires, we will benefit. We, ourselves, will be the beneficiaries. I often say that in the word “Haraam”, there is the word “harm”. The outcome of Haraam will always be harm. And considering the double ‘a’ in the transliteration, we will experience double Harm: Harm in this world and Harm in the next. There is just no goodness. Sins bring restless, anxiety and a host of problems. What is required is for us to place the knife over the animal within us. What is required is to place the knife over our anger – our unjustified anger; and place the knife over our greed, evil passions, jealousy and other evils. Allah Ta’ala commands us to wake up for Fajr, to read our five Salaah, daily, in the Masjid, to fulfil the other rights of Allah Ta’ala and the rights of Creation. And we are commanded to stay clear, to stay far away, from whatever Allah Ta’ala has declared as Haraam. And in this easy way, gain the Muhabbat of Allah Ta’ala and enjoy the best of both worlds. …There is so much to discuss about the Hajj that will be taking place and everything relating to this Mubarak month: The Farewell Hajj, the unforgettable sermon given by Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam), the Qurbani, and the great virtues of these Mubarak days and nights. We must not depend on only the Jumu`ah talk to learn Deen. We should seek to know and understand all these important events in our beautiful history as well as learn the related Masaa`il of the different Ibaadaat we are commanded to do. May Allah Ta’ala grant us a good, proper understanding and the Taufeeq of striving to earn His Pleasure.

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem EXTRACT “…When we see people making Tawaaf of the Ka’bah Sharief, we are overtaken by the scene. This continues all the time, 24 hours. Whenever we go to the Haram Shareef, upon reaching the Mataaf, there are crowds of people; vast multitudes, occupied in Tawaaf. …This should remind us of the Farishtas (Angels) making Tawaaf of Baitul Ma’moor … Allahu Akbar! … The Farishtas that are holding up the Arsh of Allah Ta’ala are continuously in Zikrullah, in the Remembrance and Praise of Allah Ta’ala. There are Farishtas who make the following Zikr: “O ALLAH! You are free from all faults, and all Praise belongs to You. All Praise is due to You, on Your Tolerance, after You have full knowledge (of our sins.)” Which employer in this world, who, despite having full knowledge that his employees are stealing, gives them a promotion? Which husband is there in the world, who knows that his wife is being disloyal, but he continues to shower her with gifts? …How disloyal we are to Allah Ta’ala!!! …How much do we steal in our Salaah? A Hadith states that the worst thief is he who steals in his Salaah. …Yet, Allah Ta’ala feeds us Biryaani; Allah Ta’ala gives us the homes we live in, the cars we travel in… SubhanAllah. Another group of Farishtas say: “O ALLAH! You are free from all faults, and all Praise belongs to You. All Praise is due to You, that You forgive after having full power to punish (us).” Think of the many wrongs we commit, day in and day out – with our eyes, ears, tongues, hands and feet. Allah Ta’ala has the full power to immediately make us blind, to make us lepers, cause paralysis to overtake us … Yet Allah Ta’ala conceals and covers up our wrongdoings and forgive us. For the one who has recognized Allah Ta’ala, his Ruh is at the Arsh-e-Azam (the High Throne of Allah Ta’ala), whilst physically, he is making Tawaaf of Baitullah. ...Whilst people have their eyes focussed on the Ka`bah Shareef, his heart is focussed and connected with the Owner of Ka`bah Shareef, with Allah Ta’ala. Whilst people are making Tawaaf on the ground, he is making Tawaaf in the Heavens…" READ THE BOOK HERE Link to blog : http://hameediyyah.blogspot.com/

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem Nabi (Sallallaahu 'alayhi wasallam) said: "Verily Allah Ta'ala has prescribed goodness for everything; so when you execute (for Qisaas) do so with dignity, and when you slaughter, do so in a proper, dignified manner. Ensure the blade for slaughter is sharpened and the slaughtering is carried out swiftly." [sahih Muslim]

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem “It is neither their flesh nor their blood that reaches Allah, but what does reach him is the Taqwa (the sense of obedience) on your part. …” [surah Al-Hajj 22 : 37] VIRTUES OF QURBAANI Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: "There is nothing dearer to Allah during the days of Qurbaani than the sacrificing of animals. The sacrificed animal shall come on the Day of Judgement with its horns, hair, and hooves (to be weighed). The sacrifice is accepted by Allah before the blood reaches the ground. Therefore sacrifice with an open and happy heart." [Tirmidhi, Ibne Majah] __________________________ Zaid lbn Arqam (Radhiyallaahu ‘anhu) related that the Sahabah (Radhiyallaahu ‘anhum) queried, 'O Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam): What is Qurbaani?' He (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) replied: 'It is the Sunnah of your father lbraheem (Alayhis Salaam).' They again asked: 'What benefit do we derive from it?' He (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) answered: 'A reward for every hair (of the sacrificed animal).' 'And (what reward is there for animals with) wool, O’ Rasulullah (sallallahu alayhi wasallam)?' they asked. 'A reward', he said, 'for every fibre of the wool.' [ibne Majah] __________________________ “When a person slaughters a Qurbaani animal, he is forgiven at the fall of the first drop of blood, and verily, the animal shall be brought forward on the Day of Judgment with its blood, meat, limbs, etc. and shall be increased in weight seventy times, and then placed on the scale of deeds.” [Kanzul Ummaal] Link to blog : http://hameediyyah.blogspot.com/

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem THE FIRST TEN DAYS OF ZUL-HIJJAH Rasulullah (Sallaahu ‘alayhi Wasallam) said: “On no days is the worship of Allah desired more than in the first ten days of Zul Hijjah. The fast of each of these days is equal to the fast of a whole year, and the Ibaadat (worship) of each of these nights is equal to the Ibaadat of Laylatul Qadr.” [Tirmidhi / Ibn Majah] ___________________________ Hadhrat Ibn `Abbas (RA) reported that Rasulullah (Sallaahu ‘alayhi Wasallam) said: "There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days." The people asked, "Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah?" He said, "Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah, except in the case of a man who went out, giving himself and his wealth up for the cause (of Allah), and came back with nothing." [sahih Bukhari] ___________________________ Hadhrat Abdullah Ibn 'Umar (RA) related that Rasulullah (Sallaahu ‘alayhi Wasallam) said: "No days are as weighty with Allah and so liked by Him for good deeds than the first ten days of Zul Hijjah. So on these days increasingly read: SubhaanAllah, Laa ilaaha illallaah, Alhamdulillah and Allahu Akbar." [Musnad Ahmad] ___________________________ THE DAY OF ARAFAH (9th of ZUL HIJJAH) Hadhrat Talhah (RA) reported that Rasulullah (Sallaahu ‘alayhi Wasallam) said: "Apart from the day of the Battle of Badr there is no day on which the shaytaan is seen to be more humiliated, more rejected, more depressed and more infuriated, than on the day of Arafah, and indeed all this is only because of beholding the abundance of descending mercy (on the day) and Allah's forgiveness of the great sins of the servants." [Mishkaat] Rasulullah (Sallaahu ‘alayhi Wasallam) was asked about fasting on the Day of Arafah (the 9th Zul Hijjah). He said, "It atones for the sins of the previous year and of the coming year." [sahih Muslim] ______________________________ Link to blog : http://hameediyyah.blogspot.com/

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem By Hazrat Maulana Yunus Patel Saheb (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) Allah Ta’ala takes a Qasm by the first ten nights of Zul Hijjah: وَالْفَجْرِ ۙ وَلَيَالٍ عَشْرٍ ۙ “By the dawn And [by] ten nights.” [surah Al-Fajr 89 : 1/2] When Allah Ta’ala is taking a Qasm on the blessedness and status of these nights, then there can be no doubt of the greatness of these nights. Allah Ta’ala is the Creator of the Universe, and Allah Ta’ala has created the days and the nights. As far as the hours of the days and nights, there is no question of different hours. Each day has a fixed twenty four hours. …We describe certain days of our lives as “memorable” and “enjoyable” and we describe certain days of our lives as “miserable” and “sad”. This alludes to the actions or the happenings of that day, which made the day memorable or miserable. So certain days become distinguished for us due to the actions that transpired on those days. As far as Shari’ah is concerned, there is no such thing as the day itself having any misfortune. There is no “bad-luck” day – as people may regard some days. Our deeds make a day good or bad. If we engage in good deeds – we perform our Salaah, fulfil the rights of Allah Ta’ala and the creation, take care of the poor, fast, engage in Zikrullah, Tilawah, Dua and other righteous deeds, so that day is a good day; a bright day. If we spend the day in bad deeds – in Zina, in watching porn, swearing, stealing, dealing in interest or engaging in other vices, we have made the day a bad day; a “dark” day. Such a day is not a blessed day for the person, because he disobeyed Allah Ta’ala in that day. Allah Ta’ala chose these days and nights of Zul Hijjah for Ibaadah. And Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam), who was the most truthful and who received Wahi (revelation) also informed us as of the speciality of these days and nights and how to occupy our time, whereby we gain the maximum profits of this period of time – this peak period for the Ibaadah of Allah Ta’ala. Not only did Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) present to us the greatness of these days and nights, he practically demonstrated the actions that should be carried out during this very Mubarak time. Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) was sinless. No one can engage in more Ibaadah, Zikr, Da’wah, and other good as he did; yet look at how he would stand for hours and hours in Salaah – until his Mubarak feet would swell, and look at how he would place his head in Sajdah for so long that his beloved wife, Hazrat Ayesha (Radhiyallahu anha) would fear his soul had departed. Despite all the responsibilities that were entrusted upon him, he would give exclusive time to the Ibaadah of Allah Ta’ala. So whatever he invited to, he practised upon. Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allah than these ten days.” The people asked: “Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah?” He said: “Not even Jihad for the sake of Allah, except in the case of a man who went out, giving himself and his wealth up for the cause (of Allah Ta’ala), and came back with nothing.”[1] Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) also directed us towards how to occupy our time: "No days are as weighty with Allah and so liked by Him for good deeds than the first ten days of Zul Hijjah. So on these days increasingly read: Subhanallah, La ilaaha illallaah, Alhamdulillah and Allahu Akbar."[2] And Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “On no days is the worship of Allah desired more than in the first ten days of Zul Hijjah. The fast of each of these days is equal to the fast of a whole year, and the Ibaadah (worship) of each of these nights is equal to the Ibaadah of Laylatul Qadr.”[3] We have to search for Laylatul Qadr in Ramadaan, and here Allah Ta’ala is giving us the rewards of Laylatul Qadr, on each of these nights of Zul Hijjah – indicating their blessedness and greatness. Sadly, we have become of those who ask: Is it Fardh? Is it Waajib? …We have learnt the definition of the Fiqh terms: Fardh, Waajib, Sunnah, and so forth, so that whatever is not Fardh, we may leave it out. This is our attitude: If something is Nafl, Mustahab, Ghair Muakkadah – we just leave it out. We don’t include it in our timetable, and if it is there, we strike it off, once we learn that it is optional and can be left out, and there is no sin in not carrying it out. The Sahabah-e-Kiraam (Radhiyallahu anhum) did not have this weak approach to Deen, this offhand attitude to Deen and this laziness in practising on Deen – as we have. No. …They strived in even those actions which were optional. Their sound intellect and their deep understanding were evident in the fact that their entire lives were sacrificed upon the Sunnah. They spent their lives seeking Allah Ta’ala’s Pleasure and Jannah, and raising the flag of Islam wherever they went. How different we are! Our condition becomes apparent when we see how our lives are sacrificed for Dunya; for what is temporary and what will be left behind when we depart from this world. Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “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 (baseless) hope on Allah.”[4] In the light of this Hadith, we can gauge which category we fall into. Unfortunately and very sadly, we look at the bare minimum when it comes to Ibaadaat. …Why is it that we do not settle for the bare minimum when it comes to our clothing, our cars, our homes and other material items? Why are we not content with the bare necessities of life, like how we are content with the bare necessities of Deen? Do we require a very luxury car to get from one place to another? Is this a necessity? …Yes, it is permissible, if the person has a correct intention and there is no pride, arrogance and boasting. But how unfortunate that we choose the best in material commodities and we do not seek the best in spiritual commodities: Al-Baaqiyatus Saalihaat (the everlasting, enduring good deeds). Allah Ta’ala presents to us what is better – so that we profit tremendously. “Wealth and children are [but] adornment of the worldly life. But the enduring good deeds are better to your Lord for reward and better for [one's] hope.” [surah Al-Kahf 18 : 46] Allah Ta’ala is seeking from us the best of deeds, not the best of material possessions: “[He] who created death and life to test you [as to] which of you is best in deed - and He is the Exalted in Might, the Forgiving.” [surah Al-Mulk 67 : 2] What was the purpose of these virtues which are related in these Ahādith? Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) loved the Ummah. He wanted for every Ummati to enter Jannah, with the maximum rewards. So these virtues were presented to us that we appreciate and work in achieving all the rewards attached to these days and nights. We want maximum profits on worldly investments. We appreciate the person who directs us to the right investments – because that will yield great profits, big returns. We value such friendship and welcome such wonderful advice. However, we do not appreciate Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) nor consider his priceless advice and guidance, which will earn for us the vast and immense profits of the Aakhirah (Hereafter). Ibaadaat yield Sawaab (rewards). This is the currency of the Aakhirah. This is what we need to take with us. When we travel in the world, we require certain currency. Not every type of currency will be accepted in a country. If a person takes Zimbabwean Dollars, then that kind of money will be useless and won’t be accepted in any other country. Moreover, we will require a massive suitcase to carry those dollars. …When I went to Zimbabwe, then a few dollars made me a millionaire. At one stage, a hundred-billion-dollar and a hundred-trillion-dollar bill were the currency in Zimbabwe …but that amount could not even purchase a bus ticket[5]. Our condition is that we are traveling towards the Hereafter but we are not accumulating the much needed currency of the Hereafter. We have very little. And we will require a lot of currency. Nothing except good deeds will help us. If we accumulate only the Rands, Dollars and Pounds of this world, and give no attention to securing that wealth which will make us multi-rich in the next life, we will find ourselves to be paupers – and full of regret and remorse for having wasted the opportunity of becoming rich in the true sense of the word. These blessed days and nights are a manifestation of Allah Ta’ala’s great love for us. Out of His Infinite Generosity, He gives us these wonderful opportunities whereby we multiply our rewards and gain the bounties of Jannah with ease, Insha-Allah. Added to this, Allah Ta’ala’s floodgates of Mercy and Forgiveness are wide open – and are not restricted to only the Hujjaaj; rather it is for the entire Ummah. Of course, these fasts are not in the category of the Ramadaan fasts, which are Fardh. These fasts are Nafl. So if a person has many responsibilities or his health is ailing, and fasting will weaken him or prevent him was fulfilling his duties at work, etc. then the person should not fast. There is no sin. However, we should be desirous that if we had the ability, we would have kept these fasts – and on just that good intention, the rewards are secured, Insha-Allah. Where we can keep two or three or at least the fast of the 9th of Zul Hijjah, then let us try and gain the rewards, Insha-Allah. If a person does not engage in any extra deeds, then the least he should do is abstain from all sins. Don’t spend this Mubarak time displeasing Allah Ta’ala. Let it not be that our attitude is: We don’t care. We will not give up our sins. We will continue as we like. How will we then face Nabi (Sallallaahu ‘alaihi wasallam) on the Day of Qiyamah? If he has to hold our garments and say: You claimed to be my Ummatees and you want the drink of Kauthar? – But where did you spend those days and nights? How did your spend those days and nights, despite me informing you of their blessedness? … How will we answer? Hazrat Shaykh Abdul Qadir Jeelani (Rahmatullahi ‘alayh) had related that Allah Ta’ala rewards a person for honouring and appreciating these ten days and nights. Some of the rewards mentioned are: 1.) Barakah in one’s life: In a little time, Allah Ta’ala grants so much. It may be a short span of life, but the person achieves much in his time. We see this in the lives of our Akaabir, who were able to do great work of Dien in their lives. 2.) Barakah in one’s Rizq : Whether a little or a lot, there will be blessings. 3.) Protection of wealth, property and children. 4.) Forgiveness of sins 5.) The pangs of death become easy. 6.) The scale of good deeds will be weighty 7.) Protection from Hell. 8.) Increase in stages in Jannah For the Friends of Allah Ta’ala, these days are like another Ramadaan to enjoy. For them, this is another occasion to take from Allah Ta’ala’s treasures and enjoy the abundant Anwaar. Come, let us join the ranks of Allah Ta’ala’s close and beloved friends by appreciating these great opportunities and enjoining the great profits in both worlds. Let us give up sins and move in the direction of Allah Ta’ala’s obedience and pleasure. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the understanding and Taufeeq. [1] Sahih Bukhari [2] Musnad Ahmad [3] Tirmidhi / Ibn Majah [4] Tirmidhi [5] This was around 2008 - 2009, when the Zimbabwean currency became very weak.

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem A brick which is just lying on the ground has got no real value to anyone. However, if that same brick is used in the building of our house, it secures its value according to the house. The brick will have more value if it used in our local Masjid and will increase in its value, if used in the Jame Masjid of our town. …What to say if it would be used in the Haram of Madinah Sharief or in the Haram of Makkah Sharief? Similarly these sheep, goats, bulls, etc. are just ordinary animals. Once their Nisbat (connection) is established with Qurbaani – with the great sacrifice of Hadhrat Ibraheem (Alaihis salaam) and with the Command of Allah Jalla Jalaaluhu, their value multiplies. Their Nisbat enhances their worth. …Just looking at them, having love for them, attending to them, etc. are all valuable deeds in the Sight of Allah Jalla Jalaaluhu! Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) had said, in regard to these animals for Qurbani, that a reward is written for every hair or every fibre of wool.[1] The rewards that these animals hold will be multiplied further on the Day of Qiyamah, as has been related in the Hadith: “When a person slaughters a Qurbani animal, he is forgiven at the fall of the first drop of blood, and verily, the animal shall be brought forward on the Day of Judgment with its blood, meat, limbs, etc. and shall be increased in weight seventy times, and then placed on the scale of deeds.”[2] By the same token, if a person keeps a horse for the Cause of Allah Ta’ala, the horse establishes a special connection (Nisbat) with Allah Ta’ala. Taking care of such a horse brings tremendous rewards. Hadhrat Abu Hurairah (Radhiyallahu 'anhu) related that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: "If someone keeps a horse in Allah's Cause, motivated by his faith in Allah and his belief in His Promise,then he will be rewarded on the Day of Resurrection for what the horse has eaten or drunk, and for its dung and urine." In another narration, Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) said: “…He to whom the horse will be a source of reward is the one who keeps it in Allah's Cause (prepares it for battle) and ties it by a long rope in a pasture (or a garden). He will get a reward equal to what its long rope allows it to eat in the pasture or the garden, and if that horse breaks its rope and crosses one or two hills, then all its foot-steps and its dung will be counted as good deeds for its owner; and if it passes by a river and drinks from it, then that will also be regarded as a good deed for its owner even if he has had no intention of watering it then…” If this is the position of these animals in the Sight of Allah Ta’ala, what then of man himself, if he establishes Nisbat with Allah Ta’ala? Man has been created from the earth, from dust. “And of His signs is that He created you from dust…” [surah Ar-Rum 30 : 20] If man makes an effort, striving against his nafs, obeying Allah Ta’ala, carrying out righteous deeds seeking the pleasure of Allah Ta’ala, the sand of his body will gain in value. Our Shaykh, Hadhrat Moulana Hakeem Muhammad Akhtar Saheb (Rahmatullahi 'alayh) had explained that the Ahlullah, the Auliya Allah have made the dust from which they have been created, valuable,through the blessings of their Nisbat (contact) with Allah Ta’ala. Whilst millions remain heedless and negligent of Allah Ta’ala, these special servants become most valuable and beloved to Allah Ta’ala, through this special Nisbat. Hadhrat Moulana (Rahmatullahi ‘Alayh) likened mankind to glass bottles, which costs a few Rands or Rupees. If a bottle is filled with an expensive Itr (scent), the bottle becomes as valuable as the amount of scent poured into it. …We find that some Itr is priced at hundreds of Rands, some even more than a thousand Rand. The value of the bottle depends on the amount of scent it contains. Similarly, the value of man increases or decreases according to what fills his heart. If the Noor of Imaan and love of Allah Ta’ala fills his heart, his value increases, in Allah Ta’ala’s Sight. This is the lamp which lights up the path to Allah Ta’ala - to salvation, success and great rewards. If the darkness of Kufr fills his heart, his value is lost – and nothing is gained. (May Allah Ta'ala protect us all). May Allah Ta’ala grant us the understanding and the Taufeeq to strive to attain that special Nisbat, whereby we too become valuable and beloved to Allah Ta’ala. By Hadhrat Moulana Abdul Hamid Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum) [1] Ibn Majah [2] Kanzul Ummaal Link to blog : http://hameediyyah.blogspot.com/

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem On visiting a friend at his home, he brought a container of chocolates and offered them to me. There was a mix of mint chocolate and plain chocolate. …I took one of the plain chocolates, and on taking a bite, tasted the flavour of mint. So I mentioned to the friend : The plain chocolate was after all just plain chocolate but in keeping close company with the mint chocolate, the plain chocolate drew and imbibed the flavour of mint, to such an extent, that on eating the plain chocolate, one would think it to be mint. Similarly, that Mureed[1] who keeps a close companionship with a Shaykh-e-Kaamil[2], will draw the flavours of piety and virtue from the heart of his Shaykh. [1] mureed : disciple of a spiritual guide. [2] Shaykh-e-Kaamil : An accomplished Spiritual guide.

Bismillahir Rahmaanir Raheem By Hadhrat Moulana Abdul Hamid Is`haq Saheb (Daamat Barakaatuhum) When in Madinatul Munawwarah… We should try and spend as much time as possible in the Masjid and as close as possible to the Roudha-e-Mubaarak, sitting quietly, occupied in the recitation of Durood Sharief. We should think that my Durood is: 1.) Saying Jazakumullah to Rasulullah (Sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) for all his favours. 2.) Making Dua for Rasulullah (Sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) 3.) Praising Rasulullah (Sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) 4.) And expressing love for Rasulullah (Sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam). Durood Sharief is a capsule which contains the Ibaadah of Shukr (appreciation), Hamd (praise), Dua (supplication) and Muhabbat (Love). We should keep in mind that Rasulullah (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) is not in need of our Durood Sharief. From our side, our Durood Sharief is out of love, as well as seeking the great benefits of Durood Sharief. When at Roudha-e-Mubaarak, we should also read the Kalimah Shahadah and request Rasulullah (Sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam) to give evidence on our behalf, that we had read the Kalimah. When in Makkatul Mukarramah… We should take advantage of the wonderful and cherished opportunity to make Tawaafs. Nowhere else in the world is this Ibaadah possible. We should try to complete as many Tawaafs as possible, but within our capacity. Keep in mind thatAllah Ta’ala does not look at the quantity of our deeds, Allah Ta’ala looks at the quality, the sincerity and the attention we give to our Ibaadah. Care should be taken not to inconvenience anyone, not even oneself. Tawaaf should be done with humility, dignity and concentration – and should not be done in haste or rushing and dashing through the crowd – as is sometimes seen on the Mataaf. There should be no worldly activities brought into the Tawaaf or into the Masjid – whether Masjidul Haraam or Masjidun Nabawi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam) - for example: making calls on one’s cell-phone, taking photographs, videoing, engaging in idle and unnecessary conversations, etc. This is totally unacceptable behaviour in any Masjid. To a greater degree, it will be reprehensible in the Masjidul Haraam and Masjidun Nabawi (Sallallaahu ‘alayhi wasallam). Keep well occupied reciting the Qur’aan Sharief – with the aim to complete at least one Khatam during one’s stay. Engage in Dua as much as possible – for almost every place in the Haramayn Shareefayn is a place of acceptance of Dua. One should complete one's prescribed Dhikr and try to also bring in the following Tasbeehaat daily: 100 x Istighfaar 100 x Durood Sharief 100 x 3rd Kalimah 100 x 4th Kalimah 100 x All of these Tasbeehaat are very greatly loved by Allah Jalla Jalaaluhu and the rewards are consequently also very great. Together with the various Ibaadaat that are engaged in, while in the Haramayn Shariefayn, we have to preserve and safeguard the Noor accumulating in the heart and guard the rewards which are multiplying in our spiritual bank accounts. It is therefore necessary to abstain from all sins – and special attention needs be given to controlling the gaze - amidst the thousands of strange women and men, who are also present inside and outside the Haram Sharief. May Allah Ta’ala grant us the Taufeeq, as well as appreciation for the time we spend in the Haramayn Shariefayn. Link to blog : http://hameediyyah.blogspot.com/

"Allah Ta’ala is “Ghafoorul-Wadood”(Most Forgiving and Most Loving). Due to Allah Ta'ala's love for His creation, He forgives. Allah Ta’ala loves to forgive and He forgives in great abundance." "When we correct our matters with Allah Ta’ala, Allah Ta’ala corrects our matters with people." "Keeping the Company of the Sheikh must be accompanied with the intentions of Islaah and gaining the Love of Allah Ta’ala. These intentions will then yield great results, Insha-Allah." "We think too much of what other people think. We should focus on just pleasing One Allah." "The Mashaa’ik do not destroy the capital of Love in the heart. They re-channel it: from Haraam to Halaal; from ghairullah to Allah Ta’ala; from those who are dying to THE ONE WHO NEVER DIES. Allah Ta'ala is Al-Hayy (The Ever-Living)."