In an attempt to understand how those who lived before us treated the gift of time, I began reading ‘The Value of Time’. We live in an era where time has little value and the accumulation of wealth overshadows our desire to attain beneficial knowledge. As you go through this treasure trove you soon come to realise how we are regretfully not of those people who know the true value of time. Instead we fritter it away, giving other irrelevant tasks weight compared to attaining and spreading beneficial knowledge, and we have lost a zeal for investing in good deeds – the one thing which will outlast us when we leave this world.

What passes through the pages in this book will leave you awe-struck, that the scholars of the past sacrificed everything from eating even when their body was calling in hunger, to minimal social relations in order to preserve time for the most important matters. If you were to take any lesson from this review, it is that we are given a microscopic view into the lives of wise giants in Islam. Wise because their profit was in the wealth of knowledge they produced for the masses. A profound use of their time shows that ensuring every moment was used for something beneficial and pleasing to Allah (Subahanahu Wa Ta’ala).









What particularly struck me about the way the book was beautifully compiled – was the reality of time worthy actions being achieved; sadly the accomplishment of goals in our lifetime is rare in our world of ‘uber-busyness’. I want to highlight some of the points mentioned in the book, though it will not suffice as an introduction so I hope that by the end of the review you will feel compelled to buy your own copy of the book or order a copy from IslamicBookStore.com and take practical lessons from it that can be applied in your own life.







Time is defined in the book as ‘the loftiest and most precious of all primary blessings’ and ‘is the substance of life, the sphere in which man exists, the citadel of his spirit, and his subsistence – him benefiting himself and others’. As many of us know, Allah swears by time in the Qur’aan in Surah Al Asr, so we should ask ourselves that if we are at a loss with time then wouldn’t the intelligent and wise people invest their time in the actions that will outlast his existence in this world? One highlight of this short yet comprehensive treatise is that it can change your perspective of time, so you come to realise the invaluable deed of attaining knowledge as being your goal in life.







One of my favourite scholarly works to read from are by the eminent Shaykul Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, about whom the author says in ‘The Value of Time’: “Even more remarkable is the example of Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, born 661, died 728, may Allah have mercy on him, at the age of 57 leaving around five-hundred written volumes. He could not have written hundreds of books, such that neither his companions, nor even his shaykh himself could count them, without complete use of his time in learning writing and worship”.







So you may be asking yourself: what are the secret ingredients of these prominent scholars we can only marvel at? I’d say they truly understood the statement that ‘time passes naturally, ends automatically, so whoever is not aware of his soul, his time will be lost, his loss will be great, and his regrets will be severe’. And it is indeed true to say that: ‘The pious predecessors and those successors who followed their way were the keenest of people to gain time and to fill it with good deeds, whether they were scholars or worshippers, for they raced against the hours, and used every instant, being very careful with their time, so that they may not lose any part of it’.







Of those mentioned, Ibn Jarir, Ibn Aqil, Ibn Taymiyyah and Ibn Al-Jawzi and many others all reflect that protecting what time is spent on and striving for only the important knowledge leads to success for ‘the wise man must devote (his) keen mind and precious time to better actions and the higher aspirations, in order to attain what is most excellent and useful’.

In summary, we, the readers in an age where time is used and abused, can take these inspiring snippets of the great legacies that have come to pass and learn to utilise every moment Allah has blessed us with through:



Reflection: For Allah has warned us of those who are wasteful with time and says:“Did we not grant you a life long enough for him who reflected to reflect therein?” [Quran Chapter 35 Verse 37]

Eating less: They were careful to lose even a second of their time in pursuit of knowledge because of eating. Such that in some of the stories written they ate only bread as their soul was satisfied with the food of knowledge.

Walking faster: In order to travel in pursuit of the knowledge they were seeking in abundance, so they would not be lazy in going from one end of the earth to the other to obtain it.

Mixing with the people less: They would reduce their social time which is prevalent in our daily activities today. Leaving the people and not coming out of their homes unless for prayer in the masjid or necessary matters.

Constantly Writing and Reading: This is paramount to the first point, their reflection on the knowledge they gained led to the numerous works presented before us. This is testimony of their vigilance in worshiping Allah and being cautious not to waste a single moment by reading, writing or remembering; and spreading this beneficial knowledge.

And I could go on, but I want to leave you with a passage from the book to think about in respect to your own life and use of time: ‘Is your life in this universe anything other than the time which passes between birth and death? Gold can vanish, but you may acquire many times what you lose. But you cannot return lost time that has passed! Therefore time is more precious than gold, and dearer than diamonds or any precious stone or any profit, for it is life itself.’

BEING A LEADER

Being a leader is about being brave...


When weakness hits it's about the Iman* you save...

...Serve others and value them it's about getting out the cave...

Wish for others what you wish for yourself it's about giving your brother water in the heart wave...

Take risks and have the courage to stand out it's about making the most of your time...

Keeping trust in Allah and making dua* it's about turning to the All-Mightly the sublime...

Watch your faith grow from a seed to a tree it's about transforming sand into a dime...

Bismillah and strive until death overtakes you it's about removing your fears...

Only fear Allah and shower people with peace it's about weeping to Allah in repentance with tears...

Be Sincere and love others with your character it's about breathing each heart beat till the glass is full...

WHAT IS PRIDE?

From 'Abdullaah Ibn Mas'ood radi-Allaahu 'anhu who related that Allaah's Messenger sal-Allaahu 'alayhe wa sallam said:




"Whoever has an atoms worth of kibr (pride) in his heart will not enter Paradise." So a man said: What about a person who loves (i.e. takes pride in) wearing beautiful clothes and beautiful shoes? So he replied: "Indeed Allaah is beautiful and loves beauty. Kibr (pride) is to reject the truth, and to despise the people."



So Allaah - the Most High - informs us that the Hellfire is the abode of those who have kibr (pride and arrogance). And we learn from the (above) hadeeth that: "Whoever has on atoms worth of kibr (pride) in his heart will not enter Paradise." So this is a proof that kibr (pride) necessitates entry into the Hellfire and prevents entry into Paradise. And this comprehensive explanation that the Prophet sal-Allaahu 'alayhe wa sallam mentioned has clarified the meaning of kibr (pride) in the dearest possible manner. So he divided kibr into two types:-



[1] Pride against the truth: This is to reject the truth and not to accept it. So anyone who reject the truth is proud and arrogant - in accordance with what he reject of the truth. So it is obligatory upon everyone to humble themselves to the truth which Allaah sent His Messenger with, and which He sent down in His Book. As for those whose pride and arrogance prevents them from totally complying with the Messengers (i.e. having eemaan or faith in them and their message) - then they are kuffaar (unbelievers) who will dwell in the Hellfire for eternity. Since when the truth comes to them via the Messengers, who explain to them the signs and clear proofs, they reject it and are prevented from accepting it, due to the kibr that they harbour in their hearts. Allaah the Most High - said:



"Indeed those who argue about the Signs of Allaah without any authority having come to them, there is nothing in their hearts except kibr (pride). They will never accept the Prophet Muhammad sal-Allaahu 'alayhe wa sallam as a Prophet." [Soorah Ghaafir (40):56]



As for those whose arrogance and pride prevent them from complying with parts of the truth - because it opposes their personal opinions or their whims and desires - then such people are not kuffaar (unbelievers), but such an action necessitates them being punished in accordance with what they have of kibr. This is why the Scholars are agreed that whenever the Sunnah (guidance and way) of Allaah's Messenger sal-Allaahu 'alayhe wa sallam has been explained to anyone, then it is not lawful for him to turn away from it to the saying of someone else, whoever and whatever status he may have. So it is obligatory upon the seeker of knowledge to give complete and absolute precedence to the saying of Allaah and the saying of His Messenger sal-Allaahu 'alayhe wa sallam over and above the saying of anyone else, and that he should make that the basis to which he returns, and the foundation upon which he builds; following the guidance of the Prophet sal-Allaahu 'alayhe wa sallam, striving hard to understand what is intended from it, and following this, both inwardly and outwardly. When a person conforms to this great principle, then he has indeed reached goodness and excellence, and all his errors will be forgiven to him; since his overall objective is to follow that which has been prescribed upon him. So his errors are excused due to his striving his best to recognise and comply with the truth - and this is humbling oneself to the truth.



[2] Pride towards people: This type is to despise the people, and to look down upon them. This attitude arises when a person is amazed with his own self, thinks highly of himself, and thinks he is better than others. So this causes him to have kibr towards the creation, despise them, mock them, and to degrade them through both speech and action. Allaah's Messenger sal-Allaahu 'alayhe wa sallam said:



"It is enough evil for a person to despise his brother Muslim." 2



This is why the man asked: "What about a person who loves (i.e. takes pride in) wearing beautiful clothes and shoes?" Because he feared that this was the kibr which would be under the threat of punishment. So the Prophet sal-Allaahu 'alayhe wa sallam explained to him that this was not from kibr; since this person was one who complied with the truth, and was humble towards people, and that this was from the beauty that Allaah loves, for indeed Allaah - the Most High is beautiful in His Dhaat (Self), Sifaat (Attributes) and Af'aal (Actions), and He loves both outer and inner beauty.



As regards outer beauty, then it includes cleanliness of the body, clothes and place. As regards to inner beauty, then it is beautifying the character. This is why the Prophet sal-Allaahu 'alayhe wa sallam used to supplicate:



"O Allaah! Guide me to having beautiful manners and characteristics, no one can guide me to beautifying them except You. And turn away from me all evil actions and characteristics, no one can turn them away from me except You."3



And Allaah knows best.





1. Related by Muslim in his Sahih (1/65).

2. Related by Muslim (no.2564).

3. Related by an-Nasa'i (no.861). It was authenticated by al-Albani in his Sifatus-Salah (p.93).

Dua when U need help from the Creator

There are certain times dua (supplication) is more likely to be accepted by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) as mentioned by Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam). These times are as follows:




1. The Last Third Of The Night



Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘In the last third of every night our Rabb (Cherisher and Sustainer) (Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala)) descends to the lowermost heaven and says; “Who is calling Me, so that I may answer him? Who is asking Me so that may I grant him? Who is seeking forgiveness from Me so that I may forgive him?.”‘ [Sahih al-Bukhari, Hadith Qudsi]



Amr ibn Absah narrated that the Prophet said: ‘The closest any worshipper can be to His Lord is during the last part of the night, so if you can be amongst those who remember Allah at that time, then do so.’ [at-Tirmidhi, an-Nasa'i, al-Hakim - Sahih]



2. Late at night



When people are sleeping and busy with worldly pleasures Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) gives the believers an opportunity, or an answer hour if they can fight sleep and invoke Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) for whatever they need.



The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘There is at night an hour, no Muslim happens to be asking Allah any matter of this world or the Hereafter, except that he will be given it, and this (occurs) every night.’ [Muslim #757]



3. Between Adhan and Iqamah



Anas (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘A supplication made between the Adhan and Iqama is not rejected.’ [Ahmad, abu Dawud #521, at-Tirmidhi #212, Sahih al-Jami #3408, an-Nasai and Ibn Hibban graded it sahih (sound)]



4. An Hour on Friday



Narrated Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu): Allah’s Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) talked about Friday and said: ‘There is an hour o n Friday and if a Muslim gets it while offering Salat (prayer) and asks something from Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala), then Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) will definitely meet his demand.’ And he (the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) pointed out the shortness of that particular time with his hands. [Sahih al-Bukhari]



Some have said that this hour is from the time the Imam (prayer’s leader) enters the mosque o n Friday’s prayer until the prayer is over (ie between the two khutbahs), whereas others have said that it is the last hour of the day (ie after the Asr prayer until the Maghrib prayer).

(Note: when we say an hour here we do not mean the hour everyone knows (60 minutes) but an unspecified period of time because the time counters which we use today came after the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) had died.



5. While Drinking Zamzam Water



Jaber (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘Zamzam water is for what it is drunk for.’ [Ahmad 3: 357 and Ibn Majah #3062]



This means that when you drink Zamzam water you may ask Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) for anything you like to gain or benefit from this water such as healing from illness…. etc.



6. While Prostrating



Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam), said: ‘The nearest a slave can be to his Lord is when he is prostrating, so invoke (supplicate) Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) much in it. [Muslim, abu Dawud, an-Nasa'i and others, Sahih al-Jami #1175]



When a Muslim is in his Salat (prayer) he is facing Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) and when he prostrates he is the nearest he can be to Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) so it is best to invoke Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) at this time. It is said that while in prostration, o ne should not ask for worldy needs (ie a nice car, a new job, etc), but for the Hereafter.



7. When Waking Up at Night



Narrated Ubada Bin As-Samit that Allah’s Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘Whomever wakes up at night and says La ilaha illallahu wahdahu la shrika lahu lahulmulku, wa lahul hamdu, wa huwa ala kulli shai’in qadir. Alhamdu lillahi, wa subhanallahi wa la ilaha illallahu, wallah akbir, wa la hawla wala quwata illa billah (none has the right to be worshipped but Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) He is the o nly o ne who has no partners. His is the kingdom and all the praises are for Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) All the glories are for Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) And none has the right to be worshipped but Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) and Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) is the most Great and there is neither might nor power except with Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) and then says, Allahumma ighfir li (O Allah! Forgive me) or invokes Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala), he will be responded to and if he makes ablution and performs Salat (prayer), his Salat (prayer) will be accepted. [Sahih al-Bukhari]



8. At The End Of The Obligatory Salat:



Narrated Abu Omamah (radiAllahu anhu): that Allah’s Messenger (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) was asked, O Messenger of Allah, which supplication is heard (by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala), he said the end of the night and at the end of the obligatory Salat (prayer) [at-Tirmidhi]



This time is after saying ‘At-tahyat’ , and before making Tasleem (finishing prayer)



9. The Night Of ‘Qadr’ (Decree)



This night is the greatest night of the year. This is the night which the almighty Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) said about it, “The night of Al-Qadar (Decree) is better than a thousand months.” [Surah al-Qadr, 97: 3]



The Night of Decree is o ne of the odd nights of the last ten nights of the blessed month of Ramadan. The angels descend down to the earth, and the earth is overwhelmed with peace and serenity until the break of dawn and when he doors of Paradise are opened, the worshipper is encouraged to turn to Allah to ask for his needs for this world and the Hereafter.



10. During The Rain



Narrated Sahel Ibn Sa’ad (radiAllahu anhu): that the Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘Two will not be rejected, Supplication when the Adhan (call of prayer) is being called, and at the time of the rain’. [Al-Hakim 2: 114, and Abu Dawud #2540, ibn Majah]



‘Seek the response to your du’as when the armies meet, and the prayer is called, and when rain falls’ [reported by Imam al-Shafi' in al-Umm, al-Sahihah #1469]



The time of the rain is a time of mercy from Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) so, o ne should take advantage of this time when Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) is having mercy o n His slaves.



11. At the Adhan



‘Seek the response to your du’as when the armies meet, and the prayer is called, and when rain falls’ [reported by Imam al-Shafi' in al-Umm, al-Sahihah #1469]



In another hadith; ‘When the prayer is called, the doors of the skies are opened, and the du’a is answered’ [al-Tayalisi in his Musnad #2106, al-Sahihah #1413]



12. The One Who Is Suffering Injustice and Oppression



The Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said to Mua’ad Ibn Jabal (radiAllahu anhu), ‘Beware of the supplication of the unjustly treated, because there is no shelter or veil between it (the supplication of the o ne who is suffering injustice) and Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala)’ [Sahih Al-Bukhari and Muslim]



The prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) declared, ‘Three men whose dua is never rejected (by Allah) are: the fasting person until he breaks his fast (in another narration, when he breaks fast), the just ruler and the o ne who is oppressed.’

[Ahmad, at-Tirmidhi - Hasan]



In another hadith; The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) declared: ‘Three du’as are surely answered: The du’a of the oppressed, the du’a of the traveler, and the du’a of the father/mother (upon their child)’



The o ne who is suffering injustice is heard by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) when he invokes Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) to retain his rights from the unjust o ne or oppressor. Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) has sworn to help the o ne who is suffering from injustice sooner or later as the Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said.



13. The Traveler



The Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said; Three supplications will not be rejected (by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala)), the supplication of the parent for his child, the supplication of the o ne who is fasting, and the supplication of the traveler. [al-Bayhaqi, at-Tirmidhi - Sahih]



During travel supplication is heard by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala) if the trip is for a good reason, but if the trip is for a bad intention or to perform illegal things (making sins) this will not apply to it.



14. The Parent’s Supplication for their Child



The Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said; Three supplications will not be rejected (by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala)), the supplication of the parent for his child, the supplication of the o ne who is fasting, and the supplication of the traveler. [al-Bayhaqi, at-Tirmidhi - Sahih]



15. Dua after praising Allah and giving salat o n the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) in the tashahhud at the end of salat.



Narrated Faddalah ibn Ubayd (radiAllahu anhu): that the Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘When anyone of you makes du’a, let him start by glorifying his Lord and praising Him, then let him send blessings upon the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam), then let him pray for whatever he wants’ [abu Dawud #1481, at-Tirmidhi #3477]



In another hadith; Baqiy ibn Mukhallid (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that that the Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘Every du’a is not responded to until o ne sends blessings upon the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam)’ [al-Bayhaqi]



In another hadith; Umar (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘Du’a is detained between the heavens and the earth and no part of it is taken up until you send blessings upon your Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam)’

[at-Tirmidhi #486]



After a person has finished his tashahhud and before saying the ’salam’, supplication at this time is o ne likely to be responded to. Ibn Mas’ud narrates: I was o nce praying, and the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam), Abu Bakr and Umar (were all present). When I sat down (in the final tashahhud), I praised Allah, then sent salams o n the Prophet, then started praying for myself. At this, the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:‘Ask, and you shall be given it! Ask, and you shall be given it!’ [at-Tirmidhi #593 - hasan, Mishkat al-Misbah #931]



16. The dua of a Muslim for his absent brother or sister Muslim stemming from the heart.



The prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:

‘There is no believing servant who supplicates for his brother in his absence where the angels do not say, ‘the same be for you” [Muslim]



17. Dua o n the Day of Arafat



The Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘The best supplication is the supplication o n the day of Arafat’.[at-Tirmidhi and Malik]



The day of Arafat is the essence and pinnacle of Hajj. o n this great and momentous day, millions of worshippers gather together o n o ne plain, from every corner of the world, with o nly o ne purpose in mind – to respone to the call of their Creator. During this auspicious day, Allah does not refuse the requests of His worshippers.



18. Dua during the month of Ramadan



Ramadan is month full of many blessings, thus the du’a of Ramadan is a blessed o ne. This can be inferred from the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) saying: ‘When Ramadan comes, the Doors of Mercy (another narration says Paradise) are opened, and the doors of Hell are closed, and the Sahitans are locked up’ Thus, it is clear that du’a during Ramadan has a greater chance of being accepted, as the Gates of Paradise and Mercy are opened.

[Sahih al-Bukhari #1899, Muslim #1079 and others]



19. Dua when the Armies meet



When the Muslim is facing the enemy in battle, at this critical period, the du’a of a worshipper is accepted.



Sahl ibn Sa’d (radiAllahu anhu) narrtaed the the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:

‘Two duas are never rejected, or rarely rejected: the du’a during the call for prayer, and the du’a during the clamity when the two armies attack each other’ [abu Dawud #2540, ibn Majah, al-Hakim]



In another narration: ‘Seek the response to your du’as when the armies meet, and the prayer is called, and when rain falls’[reported by Imam al-Shafi' in al-Umm, al-Sahihah #1469]



20. When Muslims gather for the purpose of invoking and remembering Allah (Dhikrullah) .



The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:

If a group of people sit together remembering Allah, the angels will circle them, mercy will shroud them, peace will descend o nto them and Allah will remember them among those with Him. [Muslim]



21. First Ten days of Dhul-Hijjah



The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:

‘There are no days during which good deeds are more beloved to Allah than during these ten days’ [Sahih al-Bukhai #969 and others]



22. Dua when the heart reaches out to Allah and is ready to be totally sincere



23. At Midnight



Abu Umamah (radiAllahu anhu) said, the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) was questioned; ‘Which du’a is heard (by Allah)?’ He answered, ‘At midnight and at the end of every obligatory prayer.’[at-Tirmidhi - Hasan]



25. Dua of people after the death of a person



In a long hadith, Umm Salamah (radiAllahu anha) narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said, when Abu Salamah had just passed away, and had closed his eyes,

‘Do not ask for yourselves anything but good, for the angels will say ‘Ameen’ to all that you ask for. O Allah, forgive Abu Salamah, and raise his ranks among those who are guided.’

[Muslim, abu Dawud, Ahmad]



26. Dua of the o ne fasting until he breaks his fast.



The Messenger of Allah (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said; Three supplications will not be rejected (by Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta’ala)), the supplication of the parent for his child, the supplication of the o ne who is fasting, and the supplication of the traveler. [al-Bayhaqi, at-Tirmidhi - Sahih]



27. Dua of the o ne fasting at the time of breaking fast



The prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) declared,

‘Three men whose dua is never rejected (by Allah) are: when a fasting person breaks fast (in another narration, the fasting person until he breaks his fast), the just ruler and the o ne who is oppressed.’ [Ahmad, at-Tirmidhi - Hasan]



29. Dua of a just Ruler



The prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) declared,

‘Three men whose dua is never rejected (by Allah) are: the fasting person until he breaks his fast (in another narration, when he breaks fast), the just ruler and the o ne who is oppressed.’

[Ahmad, at-Tirmidhi - Hasan]



30. Dua of a son or daughter obedient to his or her parents



It is well known in the story narrated in hadith os three men who were trapped by a huge stone in a cave. o ne of them who was kind to kis parents asked Allah to remove the stone, and his du’a was answered. [Sahih al-Bukhari 3:36 #472]



31. Dua immediately after wudu



Umar ibn Al-Khattab reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:

‘There is not o ne of you that makes wudu, and does it perfectly, then says: I testify that there is no diety worthy of worship except Allah. he is Alone, having no partners. And I bear witness that Muhammad is His slave and messenger’, except that the eight gates of Paradise are opened for him, and he can enter into it through whichever o ne he pleases’

[Muslim #234, abu Dawud #162, Ahmad, an-Nasa'i]



Saying what has been mentioned in the hadith that is directly related to it (ablution)



32. Dua after stoning the Jamarat at Hajj



The stoning of the small Shaitan (jamrat sugra), or the middle Shaitan (jamrat wusta) pillars during Hajj.



It is narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) would stone the small Jamarah (one of the three pillars that is stoned in the last days of Hajj), then face the qiblah, raise his hands, and make du’a for a long time. He would then stone the middle Jamarah and do the same. When he stoned the large Jamarah, he would depart without making any du’a. [Sahih al-Bukhari #1753 and others]



33. At the Crowing of a Rooster



Abu Hurairah (radiAllahu anhu) narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:

‘When you hear a rooster crowing, then ask Allah for His bounties, for it has seen an angel, and when you hear a donkey braying, then seek refuge in Allah from Shaitan, for it has seen a Shaitan’ [Sahih al-Bukhari, Muslim, Ahmad, Sahih al-Jami #611]



34. Du’a made inside the Ka’bah



The Ka’bah is a sanctuary that has no comparison in the entire world. The du’a of o ne who prays inside the hijr is considered as being made inside the ka’bah, as it is part of the house (Baitullah). [This is the semicircle to the right of the Ka'bah if you face the door, opposite to the Yemeni corner and the Black stone wall.]



Usamah ibn Zayd narrated, ‘When the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) entered the House (Ka’bah), he made du’a in all of its corners [Muslim 2: 968 and others]



35. Du’a o n the mount of Safa or Marwah during Umrah or Hajj



It is narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) would make long du’as at Safa and Marwah. [Muslim #1218 and others]



36. Dua at any of the holy sites.



37. While reciting Surah al-Fatihah



The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said that Allah the Exalted had said:

‘ I have divided the prayer into two halves between Me and My servant, and My servant will receive what he asks for. When the servant says: Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the universe, Allah the Most High says: My servant has praised Me. And when he (the servant) says: The Most Compassionate, the Merciful, Allah the Most High says: My servant has lauded Me. When he (the servant) says: Master of the Day of Judgment, He remarks: My servant has glorified Me, and sometimes He will say: My servant entrusted (his affairs) to Me. When he (the worshipper) says: Thee do we worship and of Thee do we ask help, He (Allah) says: This is between Me and My servant, and My servant will receive what he asks for. Then, when he (the worshipper) says: Guide us to the straight path, the path of those to whom Thou hast been Gracious — not of those who have incurred Thy displeasure, nor of those who have gone astray, He (Allah) says: This is for My servant, and My servant will receive what he asks for.

[Muslim 4: 395]



38. Saying ‘Ameen’ during prayer



After finishing the recitation of al-Fatihah, the saying of‘Ameen’ in congregation.

The Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said: ‘When the Imam says ‘Ameen’, then recite it behind him (as well), because whoever’s Ameen coincides with the Ameen of the angels will have all of his sins forgiven.’ [Sahih al-Bukhari #780, Muslim #410 and others]



39. While visiting the sick, and dua made by the sick



Umm Salamah narrated that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:

‘When you visit the sick, or the dead then say good, because the angels say ‘Ameen’ to whatever you say [Muslim #2126]



Ali (radiAllahu anhu) reported that the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) said:

‘When a Muslim visits his sick Muslim brother in the morning, seventy thousand angels make dua for his forgiveness till the evening. And when he visits him in the evening, seventy thousand angels make dua for his forgiveness till the morning, and he will be granted a garden for it in Jannah.’ [at-Tirmidhi, abu Dawud]

Do we follow our hearts blindly?

Those who enjoy what's good/right and who stay away from evil/wrong.


So this means a believer is someone who truly understood the meaning of Islam and the meaning of a Muslim in details. One who is able to think and understand the Quran and Sunnah(Islam).One who then after using wisdom and logic, loves and practices Islam as it should be practiced with a great pure heart. Who is able to know logically what's right and wrong.Than the good deeds are counted according to the pure intentions.Allah swt than rewards the Muslim with whatever he/she wishes for and even much more .Islam is not something that you follow things blindly. Islam is a pure way of life and teachings that are followed with logical wisdom and pure heart. And once this is understood then the unity and brotherhood in Islam will be understood too.

BROTHERHOOD AND UNITY

Allah swt says in the Quran about brotherhood and commands us to act as brothers and sisters

"The believers are nothing else than brothers (in Islâmic religion). So make reconciliation between your brothers, and fear Allâh, that you may receive mercy. "(Surah 49:10)



That's it, act as true brothers and sisters with each other and you won't be astray.Love and respect each other as brothers and sisters :)



Muhammad saws said the real Muslims must love each other as real brothers and sisters to.

"You will not enter Paradise until you have faith, and you will not have faith until you love each other..."(hadith)

Brotherhood is to live in peace and understanding with one another. If one disagrees with another than they should follow the best meaning of what is discussed. We can argue but we can still love. We can forgive and have mercy always for one another. Brother/Sister love should grow constantly. For this reason we must not fight nor hate each other(especially not kill),even if that happens to some(since we are weak humans)than hate should not be more than 3 days, .A real Muslim will wish for his bro/sis in Islam what he wishes for himself and help him/her to live in peace.One must not take advantage of another and should respect his/her rights.

Do help each other and do be happy together. Learn from one another, do admit your mistakes when you do them accidently and than fix them. Purify yourselves with love and understanding for each other.

Do understand that if you don't act like this then there'll be a total mess(which you can see clearly in our time that's exactly what's happening among the Ummah).Wish for each other good as you wish for yourself. Be open with each other but also know when to put a limit cos Allah swt doesn't love those who are extremists. Try as much as you can to be a humble/modest Muslim/Muslimahs.



Allah wants us to live together in peace, love and tranquility, not backbiting and hating one another for no reasons. Even with non Muslims we should live in peace and respect. A Muslim doesn't hate nor judge injustly.A Muslims helps any innocent person and loves his bro/sis for the sake of Allah swt.Let us be the wonderful Ummah that Allah swt wishes for us to be.

Muhammad saws said:

“All mankind is from Adam and Eve, an Arab has no superiority over a non-Arab nor a non-Arab has any superiority over an Arab; also a white has no superiority over black nor a black has any superiority over white except by piety and good action. Learn that every Muslim is a brother to every Muslim and that the Muslims constitute one brotherhood.”



A muslim is like a real brother to another and this is why he(saws) also said ""None of you will have faith till he wishes for his (Muslim) brother what he likes for himself." (Sahih Al-Bukhari Volume 1, Book 2, Number 12) .



"You will not enter Paradise until you have faith, and you will not have faith until you love each other."

Shall I direct you to something which if you fulfill you will love one another? Spread peace among yourselves."(It was reported by Muslim)



"A Muslim is the brother of another Muslim. He does not oppress him, nor does he leave him at the mercy of others." (Sahih Muslim Book 032, Number 6219)



"Your smile in the face of your brothers is an act of charity."(hadith)



Even a smile is a charity and charity is worship and Allah swt is pleased with one when he does things for the sake of Allah swt.Allah swt says and His messenger saws that we should greet each other with "salaam aleykum"(peace of Allah be with you),even the greeting should be with peace so we should not violate peace.



So let us change and start uniting for the sake of Allah swt.Let us live in peace and love.Let us start practicing real Islam with pure heart and wisdom/logic.Let us really be Muslims !!



Allah says :

“The Mu’minoon are but a single Brotherhood.” (The Holy Qur’an, 49:10)



For this We sent a Messenger to you from among you to recite Our Signs to you and purify you and teach you the Book and Wisdom and teach you things you did not know before. (Surat 02:151)



Say: "Will you inform Allâh of your religion While Allâh knows all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth, and Allâh is All-Aware of everything.They regard as favour to you (O Muhammad SAW) that they have embraced Islâm. Say: "Count not your Islâm as a favour to me. Nay, but Allâh has conferred a favour upon you, that He has guided you to the Faith, if you indeed are true. Verily, Allâh knows the unseen of the heavens and the earth. And Allâh is the All-Seer of what you do.(Surah 49:16-18)



And follow what is revealed to you and be patient till Allah should give judgment, and He is the best of the judges. (Surah 10.109)



And follow what is revealed to you from your Lord; surely Allah is Aware of what you do

(Surah 33.002)



In the name of God, the infinitely Compassionate and Merciful.

Praise be to God, Lord of all the worlds.

The Compassionate, the Merciful. Ruler on the Day of Reckoning.

You alone do we worship, and You alone do we ask for help.

Guide us on the straight path,

the path of those who have received your grace;

not the path of those who have brought down wrath, nor of those who wander astray.

Amen.(Surah Al Fatiha)



Assalaamun Aleykum Wa Rahmatullahi Wa Barakatuhu

(May the peace,mercy and blessings of Allah swt be with you)

dua for EATING.

BEFORE EATING


Allhuma baa rik lanaa feemaa razaqtanaa wa qinaa azaaba al-naar
Translation: O Allah! Bless us on everything You give us, and avoid us from Hellfire. And with the name of Allah.

AFTER EATING 

Alhamdulillahillazee at 'amanaa wa saqaanaa wa kafaa naa wa awaa naa
Translation: All Praises be to Allah, who provides us food, drink, satisfaction and protection

WAYS TO PROTECT FROM THE CURSED SHAYTAN

1.وَإِمَّا يَنزَغَنَّكَ مِنَ ٱلشَّيۡطَـٰنِ نَزۡغٌ۬ فَٱسۡتَعِذۡ بِٱللَّهِ‌ۖ إِنَّهُ ۥ هُوَ ٱلسَّمِيعُ ٱلۡعَلِيمُ “And if there comes to you from Satan an evil suggestion, then seek refuge in Allah. Indeed, He is the Hearing, the Knowing.” [41:36]
2. Recitation of the two soorahs al-Falaq,
قُلۡ أَعُوذُ بِرَبِّ ٱلۡفَلَقِ (١) مِن شَرِّ مَا خَلَقَ (٢) وَمِن شَرِّ غَاسِقٍ إِذَا وَقَبَ (٣) وَمِن شَرِّ ٱلنَّفَّـٰثَـٰتِ فِى ٱلۡعُقَدِ (٤) وَمِن شَرِّ حَاسِدٍ إِذَا حَسَدَ (٥

Say: "I seek refuge with (Allâh) the Lord of the daybreak, (1) "From the evil of what He has created; (2) "And from the evil of the darkening (night) as it comes with its darkness; (or the moon as it sets or goes away) (3) "And from the evil of those who practise witchcrafts when they blow in the knots, (4) "And from the evil of the envier when he envies." (5)
and an-Nas,
قُلۡ أَعُوذُ بِرَبِّ ٱلنَّاسِ (١) مَلِكِ ٱلنَّاسِ (٢) إِلَـٰهِ ٱلنَّاسِ (٣) مِن شَرِّ ٱلۡوَسۡوَاسِ ٱلۡخَنَّاسِ (٤) ٱلَّذِى يُوَسۡوِسُ فِى صُدُورِ ٱلنَّاسِ (٥) مِنَ ٱلۡجِنَّةِ وَٱلنَّاسِ (٦

Say: "I seek refuge with (Allâh) the Lord of mankind, (1) "The King of mankind — [] (2) "The Ilâh (God) of mankind, (3) "From the evil of the whisperer (devil who whispers evil in the hearts of men) who withdraws (from his whispering in one's heart after one remembers Allâh)[] , (4) "Who whispers in the breasts of mankind, (5) "Of jinn and men." (6)
as they have wondrous effect in seeking refuge with Allah from his evil, weakening Shaytan and protection from him. This is why the Messenger, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, said: “No person seeks refuge with anything like the Mu`awwidhatayn (soorahs al-Falaq and an-Nas)”. [an-Nasaa’i, 5337]3. Recitation of Ayat al-Kursi (2:255).
ٱللَّهُ لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ ٱلۡحَىُّ ٱلۡقَيُّومُ‌ۚ لَا تَأۡخُذُهُ ۥ سِنَةٌ۬ وَلَا نَوۡمٌ۬‌ۚ لَّهُ ۥ مَا فِى ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَمَا فِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ‌ۗ مَن ذَا ٱلَّذِى يَشۡفَعُ عِندَهُ ۥۤ إِلَّا بِإِذۡنِهِۦ‌ۚ يَعۡلَمُ مَا بَيۡنَ أَيۡدِيهِمۡ وَمَا خَلۡفَهُمۡ‌ۖ وَلَا يُحِيطُونَ بِشَىۡءٍ۬ مِّنۡ عِلۡمِهِۦۤ إِلَّا بِمَا شَآءَ‌ۚ وَسِعَ كُرۡسِيُّهُ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَٱلۡأَرۡضَ‌ۖ وَلَا يَـُٔودُهُ ۥ حِفۡظُهُمَا‌ۚ وَهُوَ ٱلۡعَلِىُّ ٱلۡعَظِيمُ (٢٥٥

Allâh! Lâ ilâha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He), the Ever Living, the One Who sustains and protects all that exists. Neither slumber, nor sleep overtake Him. To Him belongs whatever is in the heavens and whatever is on earth. Who is he that can intercede with Him except with His Permission? He knows what happens to them (His creatures) in this world, and what will happen to them in the Hereafter . And they will never compass anything of His Knowledge except that which He wills. His Kursî[] extends over the heavens and the earth, and He feels no fatigue in guarding and preserving them. And He is the Most High, the Most Great.

4. Recitation of soorah al-Baqarah. The Messenger, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, said, “The house in which al-Baqarah is recited is not approached by Shaytan.” [Muslim]

5. The final part of al-Baqarah. The Messenger, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, said, “Whoever recites the two last verses of al-Baqarah at night they will suffice him.” [Muslim]

6. Recitation of the beginning of soorah Mu’min (Ghafir), until His saying, “wa ilayhi-l-maseer” (to Him is the destination). (i.e.حمٓ (١) تَنزِيلُ ٱلۡكِتَـٰبِ مِنَ ٱللَّهِ ٱلۡعَزِيزِ ٱلۡعَلِيمِ (٢ “Ha. Meem. The revelation of the Book is from Allah, the Exalted in Might, the Knowing, the forgiver of sin, acceptor of repentance, severe in punishment, owner of abundance. There is no deity except Him; to Him is the destination.” [40:1-2])

7. Saying “la ilaha ill Allah wahdahu la sharika lah, lahul mulku wa lahul hamdu wa huwa `ala kulli shay’in qadir” (there is nothing worthy of worship except Allah, He has no partner, His is the Dominion and Praise, and He is able to do all things) a hundred times.

8. The most beneficial form of protection from Shaytan: abundance of remembrance of Allah, the Exalted.

9. Ablution and prayer, and they are from among the greatest means of protection, especially at the time of emergence of anger and desire.

10. Abstinence from excess speech, food and mixing with people.

By Imam Ibn ul Qayyim al Jawziyyah
Summarized from Bida’i` al-Fawa’id (304-308)

FATWA ON CPF NOMINATION (SINGAPORE)

This is a great concern from me personally as I feel that we as parents are able to make sound decisions based on how our children's characters are like.    Sometimes, our children do not deserve to inherit our CPF monies, therefore..with this fatwa, we are clearer that we can give our money to more deserving people.

FATWA ON CPF MONIES

Increase Your Good Deeds in the 1st ten days of Dhul Hijjah

The first ten days of Dhul Hijjah have arrived. Ibn 'Abbas reported that Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said in reference to the first ten days of Dhul Hijjah:


"No good deeds done on other days are superior to those done on these days."



Here are some other ways you can increase your good deeds in these blessed ten days:


Fasting


Increased ibaadah (worship)


Reading Quran


Increased kindness to neighbors


Giving charity, even if just one day.

Good read for singapore parents and singaporeans...............

Self made millionaire commented in his blog in regard to the learning spirit of foreigners and singaporeans.

I believe instilling the right islamic spirit in our children will ensure this will not happen to our muslim children.  Unfortunately due to the metropolitan lifestyle desired by many singapore muslims,  this virtue of seeking knowledge and to excel in all aspects in their lives have diminished.  We need to look into this issue and address this issue within our family unit to ensure the problem to be resolved.

http://sg.theasianparent.com/articles/expats-will-rule-singapore-says-adam-khoo

THE HUMP ON THE CAMEL??

THE HUMPY STYLE IS IN SINGAPORE FINALLY. EVEN WOMEN IS THEIR LATE 40s ARE CATCHING UP IN STYLE. 

Rasulallah (صلى الله عليه وسلم) has mentioned, “There are two groups of people who are from amongst the inmates of the fire, I have not seen them. a) Such a nation who possesses whips like the tails of cattle, they beat the people with it. b) Women who are dressed, yet they are naked, they inclining towards others and others inclining towards them, their heads are like the leaning humps of female camels, they will not enter Jannah, nor will they get its fragrance. Verily, its fragrance can be smelt from such and such distance”. (Sahih Muslim vol.2 pg 205/383, Rashidiyyah)Was it right or wrong? You decide.

 Written by Rachelle Kliger
Published Sunday, May 30, 2010

Latest style in Islamic headscarves, the ‘puffed’ Hijab, riles conservatives.

It’s called the Abu-Nafkha-style Hijab. It’s popular, especially among teenagers and women with a flare for the flamboyant, and it has clerics and fashion aficionados fuming.

Abu-Nafkha is a relatively new style of Hijab, the religious headscarf worn by Muslim women, and is slowly gaining popularity throughout the Arab world.

The style is called Abu-Nafkha, or “puffed” because it involves creating a bulge under the scarf, usually by placing a large floral hair clip at the back of the head to add volume. This makes women look as if they have very thick hair.

Has your heart broken?

Allah Resides in Broken Hearts



Divine narrative: (hadith qudsi)“I am with those whose hearts are broken for My sake.” (At haf 6/290)The heart of a man receives shocks in many ways, e.g. anxieties, troubles, accidents, casualties, thus the heart is broken, but why? Just to make it a target for Allah’s mercy and bounty.

The heart is like a mirror. Do not prevent it from being broken. It’s breakage is more dearer in the sight of its maker (i.e Allah), than its safety. Almighty Allah being indeed the Maker.Dr Abdul Hayi Sahab used to say, when Allah breaks the heart of any of His servants, He desires to lift them to greater heights. These shocks, anxieties and sorrows which come to men are forced exertions in deen (faith) by which the servants progress in leaps and bounds to higher degrees and this is not possible in normal circumstances. He used to recite a couplet:“The potter threw down the pot to break it, saying that after breaking it, he would reshape it (in a better form).”“The moon like beloved ones take up their residence in deserted houses. They reside in the hearts of those who they ruin.”The divine light penetrates into the broken hearts, so do not be afraid of occasions of sorrow and shocks. If you truly and firmly believe in Allah, then this broken heart, these rising sighs and these tears will take you to greater heights of spiritual achievement.“The Valley of love is too far off, but some time a hundred years long journey is covered with one sigh, in the twinkling of an eye. Man should not therefore, get dejected and disappointed with these shocks and anxieties.”

If you can just get through this day,

Drag one foot after the other,

Your broken heart will fade away.

Again you’ll learn the words to say,

Teach yourself how not to suffer,

If you can just get through this day.

 Battle through the workplace affray ,

Do one task after the other,

Your broken heart will fade away.

The world will cease to seem so grey,

Eyes and smiles will soon recover,

If you can just get through this day.

Clear piles of paper from your tray,

Draw one breath after the other,

Your broken heart will fade away.

I promise you will be okay,And perhaps forgive that lover;

If you can just get through this day,Your broken heart will fade away.

Through Education, we build tolerance

America and Muslims have an opportunity to repair frayed relations and build bridges for the future, writes Aijaz Zaka Syed






As if there were not enough issues already to drive America and Muslims apart, we had to invent this one. Look at the case of the proposed mosque in New York. The entire US media and rightwing brigade are acting as if Muslims have invaded America and are building a monument to Osama Bin Laden at the site where the World Trade Center once stood.

Reality is a little different. If anyone cares to know, the United States, and New York in particular, are home to a large Muslim population and this isn't the first mosque to be built in the Big Apple. There are numerous mosques and prayer halls all over the city.

More important, it's wrong to call it the "Ground Zero mosque". For one, it's not being built at the site of the Twin Towers but a few blocks away from it. Besides, it's not just a mosque in the strictest conventional sense that is coming up in Manhattan. Cordoba House, a $100 million project mooted by a Kuwaiti immigrant, Imam Feisal Abdul-Raouf and his Indian wife Daisy Khan, is a cultural centre, which will include a prayer area, sports facilities, theatre and a restaurant.

The aim, according to the promoters, is to foster "integration, tolerance of difference and community cohesion ... a place where individuals, regardless of their backgrounds, will find a centre of learning, art and culture." Imam Abdul Rauf calls himself a follower of "moderate Islam" in the tradition of South Asia's Sufis. Frankly, I do not care much for this nonsense about "moderate Islam". For there is no such thing as moderate or extremist Islam. Islam is Islam is Islam: take it or leave it. You accept it the way it is. You cannot distort or mould it or water down its teachings to suit your own convenience or requirements. This is one faith that brooks no half measures. And it needs no testimonials from either its followers or foes.

No matter what anyone says or thinks, Islam is moderate by nature and preaches moderation, reason and restraint in all respects -- even in your devotion and faith. It doesn't want you to spend all your time in the mosque or cloister yourself from the world to do nothing but pray all the time. If it stands for submitting oneself to the will of God, it also means peace, literally. This is why all this fuss over an Islamic centre near Ground Zero is rather unfortunate.

It's all the more absurd considering Imam Abdul-Raouf has long been a champion of building bridges and better Islam-West relations. He never tires of sermonising to his flock on the need for the faithful to live peacefully with other religions and communities, going out of his way to emphasise all that is common in all religions, especially between Islam and Christianity, and Judaism. In fact, in his recent book, What's Right With Islam is What's Right with America, he argues that unlike many Muslim countries, America is "the ideal Islamic society" because it encourages tolerance, human rights and promotes freedom of practising faith. As Fareed Zakaria puts it, the cleric's vision of Islam is Bin Laden's worst nightmare.

With the Cordoba House, Imam Abdul Rauf hopes to carry forward this mission of building healthier Islam-West relations. That such a noble initiative should face such bitter opposition and hostility from the US right, and even ordinary Americans, the majority of them genuinely tolerant and generous of spirit, is tragically ironic.

Having failed to block the project, the neocons are venting their ire on Muslims. Former Alaska Governor Sarah Palin (remember her?) has gone on Twitter to ask "peaceful Muslims" to "repudiate the mosque", because it "stabs hearts". Conservative pundit and former House Speaker Newt Gingrich says no mosque can be built near Ground Zero as long there are no churches and synagogues in Saudi Arabia.

A former New York mayor and another frustrated presidential hopeful terms Cordoba House a "desecration" and an insult to the victims of 9/11 attacks. A Florida church has given the call for "burn a Quran day" to protest the "Ground Zero mosque".

As these instances of Islamophobia grow across America, fuelled by preachers of sweetness and light such as Pat Robertson and Ann Coulter, and TV networks like Fox News, some wonder if Cordoba House is such a good idea. Given the rancour and acidic bitterness the issue has already generated, which is being exploited by Muslim bashers, some think the promoters should just call off the whole thing. It now seems to defeat the very object of the project.

They're probably right. Islam believes that the whole earth is a mosque for believers. You do not need walls and a roof to pray. Wherever you stand to pray or prostrate before God, that piece of land is the mosque. This is what early Muslims did, praying wherever and whenever they could, even when they were fighting for their lives. So Islam and Muslims in America do not need that piece of land near Ground Zero for their survival or identity. Their faith is beyond all this.

However, the Manhattan mosque initiative has subjected both America and Muslims to an unprecedented test. It not just tests America's claim to be the "land of the free" but also the much-celebrated ideals of its founding fathers. It tests its fabled democracy and freedom and its claim to be a land where everyone is welcome and has the right to do his or her own thing.

By giving the go-ahead for the mosque project in Manhattan, close to the site of the 11 September terror attacks, New York and its mayor Michael Bloomberg have already earned the admiration of many Muslims around the world. However, the ongoing campaign against the mosque and indirectly against Muslims is sure to get fiercer and nastier in the days and months to come. The response of the US leadership will be watched closely around the world, especially by Muslims.

On the other hand, Muslims face a situation that refreshes the memories of the 9/11 aftermath. Right now, they need all the survival skills they've got. Already, there's an alarming upsurge in hostility and paranoia in the land that they chose to make their home.

But I see an opportunity in this brewing crisis. Muslims must use this opportunity to clear the cobwebs clouding the image of their faith in the minds of Americans. They have an opportunity to remind and explain to Americans, and the world, that the destruction that struck the Twin Towers does not represent Islam, but peace, compassion and equality do.

In the Manhattan mosque initiative, America and Muslims have an opportunity to repair their long-frayed relations and build bridges for a shared future. The wounds inflicted by the US wars and policies in the Muslim world are deep, but gestures like these could make them less painful.
The Cordoba House project should be a monument to healthier and better Islam-West relations, and for a better world. There's too much at stake in this struggle for America and Islam's soul.

* The writer is opinion editor of Khaleej Times .

STOP GOSSIPS AND DONT TALK BEHIND PEOPLE'S BACK

As muslims, we need to be aware of our tongues and our speech while we are in a group. We can be strayed easily. May Allah protect us from the evil of our tongues

SAYS SALAM TO PROPHET MUHAMMAD (PBUH)

‎"Cause no harm to yourselves nor cause it to others." The Prophet (peace be upon him)

1. The piety and humility of the Salat


When Ramadan came to a close, the rightly guided predecessors (As-Salaf As-Saalih) used to frequently seek forgiveness, repent to Allaah – The Mighty and Majestic – and fear that their (deeds) would not be accepted. They used to exert themselves (in worship) in Ramadan and outside of Ramadan, afterwards they would be fearful that none of this will be accepted.

2. How the Salat behaved when Ramadan was approaching and when it left

They used to seek the forgiveness of Allah and repent. So much so that it was reported that they would supplicate to Allah for six months that He would allow them to reach Ramadan. If He allowed them to reach Ramadan, they would fast, pray at night and supplicate for the next six months that He accepts the month of Ramadan from them.

3. Signs that Ramadan has been accepted

Following good deeds with good is a sign that (an act) has been accepted, whether it is pertaining to Ramadan or other than it. If the Muslim is in a good state after Ramadan, performing many good deeds and righteous actions, then this is a proof of acceptance.

4. Signs that Ramadan hasn’t been accepted

If the opposite is true, and he follows good with evil, and as soon as Ramadan is over he follows on from this with sins, heedlessness and turning away from the obedience of Allah, then this is a proof that it hasn’t been accepted.

Every person knows their true situation after Ramadan. So let them look, if they are in a better state, then let them thank Allah, as this shows (that it has been) accepted.

If their state is worse, then let them repent to Allah and seek the forgiveness of Allah, as this is a proof that it hasn’t been accepted and it is a proof of negligence and carelessness.

5. Do not despair of the Mercy of Allah

But the slave should not lose hope of the mercy of Allah. He should not close the door that is between him and Allah and despair of the mercy of Allah.



“Say: O my slaves who have transgressed against themselves (by committing evil deeds and sins). Do not despair of the Mercy of Allah: verily Allah forgives all sins. He is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.” (Az-Zumar: 53)



It is upon him to repent, seek the forgiveness of Allah and return to Allah – The Mighty and Majestic.

Allah – The Mighty and Majestic – accepts repentance from those that repent.



“And He it is Who accepts repentance from His slaves, and forgives sins, and He knows what you do.” (Ash-Shura:25)



And the peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad.

By the Shaykh, ‘Allaamah Saalih Al-Fawzaan



Ithaaf Ahlil Eemaan bi Duroos Shahr Ar-Ramadaan pg. 119-120



Translated by Hassan As-Somali

GROW YOUR WEALTH - MAKE YOUR DUA IN RAMANDAN

7 Ways to Increase Your Wealth Whilst Coming Closer to Allah


Ask Allah for Forgiveness (Nuh: Ask your Lord for forgiveness...He will increase you in wealth)

Fulfill ties of Kinship (Silat ArRahim) Anas : 'Whoever likes to have increase in his Rizq and to live long, should honor ties with his blood relatives' [ Bukhari and Muslim ]

Halal Business: (And Allah made business transactions halal and Riba Haram)

Interest Free Loans, Qardh Hasan (Who is it that will loan to Allah a goodly loan, so that Allah may compound it many times) The Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi wa Sallam) said: "And whoever fulfills the needs of his brother, Allah will fulfill his needs." [ Bukhari and Muslim ]

Zakah (700x return, promise from Allah) ~ Allaah has said ‘O bani Adam, spend! I will spend on you. ~ “...Money will never decrease because of charity” [al-Tirmidi]

Taqwa – (And whoever has Taqwa of Allah, Allah makes a way out for them, and provides for them from where they would not imagine) provide from where they would never imagine

Dua: rabbana aatina fid dunya hasanah... (O Allah, give us goodness in this life, and goodness in the next, and protect us from Hellfire)

Ramadan is the most important month of our calendar. It is a tremendous gift from Allah in so many ways. In our current state of being down and out, it can uplift us, empower us, and turn around our situation individually and collectively. It is the spring season for the garden of Islam when dry grass can come back to life and flowers bloom. But these benefits are not promised for lifeless and thoughtless rituals alone. They will be ours if our actions are informed by the message of Ramadan.

Today the message of Ramadan tends to get drowned out by much louder voices of the pop culture that have an opposite message. We have become so accustomed to them that many of us remain enslaved to them even during Ramadan.



The most important message of Ramadan is that we are not just body. We are body and soul. And that what makes us human beings and that determines our value as human beings is the soul and not the body. During Ramadan we deprive the body to uplift the soul. This is all simple and familiar. But we can understand its significance if we remember that the message of the materialistic hedonistic global pop culture that has engulfed every Muslim land today --- just like the rest of the world--- is exactly the opposite. It says that body is everything. That the materialistic world is all that counts. That the greatest happiness -- if not virtue-- is in filling the appetites of the body. This message produces endless appetites and consequently endless wars to fill those endless appetites through endless exploitation. It produces endless frustrations since the gap between desires and achievements can never be filled. It produces endless chaos and endless oppression. Yet this trash comes in such beautiful and enticing packages that we can hardly resist it. We equate this slavery with freedom. We consider this march to disaster as progress. And with every movement, we get further and deeper into the mire.



Ramadan is here to liberate us from all this. Here is a powerful message that it is soul over body. Take a break from the pop culture. Turn off the music and TV. Say goodbye to the endless and futile pursuit of happiness in sensory pleasures. Rediscover your inner self that has been buried deep under it. Reorient yourself. Devote your time to the reading of the Qur'an, to voluntary worship, to prayers and conversations with Allah. Reflect on the direction of your life and your priorities. Reflect on and strengthen your relationship with your Creator.



On the last day of one Sha'ban, Prophet MuhammadSall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, gave a Khutbah about the upcoming month of Ramadan. It is a very important Khutbah that we should carefully read before every Ramadan to prepare ourselves mentally for the sacred month. It begins: "Oh people! A great month is coming to you. A blessed month. A month in which there is one night that is better than a thousand months. A month in which Allah has made it compulsory upon you to fast by day, and voluntary to pray by night. Whoever draws nearer to Allah by performing any of the voluntary good deeds in this month shall receive the same reward as is there for performing an obligatory deed at any other time. And whoever discharges an obligatory deed in this month shall receive the reward of performing seventy obligations at any other time. It is the month of Sabr (patience), and the reward for sabr is Heaven. It is the month of kindness and charity. It is a month in which a believer's sustenance is increased. Whoever gives food to a fasting person to break his fast, shall have his sins forgiven, and he will be saved from the Fire of Hell, and he shall have the same reward as the fasting person, without the latter's reward being diminished at all."



The hadith continues and contains many other very important messages. However let us take the time to highlight two of the statements contained above. First, that Ramadan is the month of sabr. The English translation is patience but that word has a very narrow meaning compared to sabr. Sabr means not only patience and perseverance in the face of difficulties, it also means being steadfast in avoiding sin in the face of temptations and being persistent in performing virtues when that is not easy. Overcoming hunger and thirst during fasting is part of it. But protecting our eyes, ears, minds, tongues, and hands, etc. from all sins is also part of it. So is being persistent in doing good deeds as much as possible despite external or internal obstacles. Ramadan requires sabr in its fullest sense and provides a training ground for that very important quality to be developed and nurtured. Here is a recipe for the complete overhaul of our life, not just a small adjustment in meal times.



The highest point of Ramadan is itikaf, an act of worship in which a person secludes himself in a masjid to devote his time entirely to worshipping and remembering Allah. Some in every Muslim community must take a break and go to the masjid for the entire last ten days of Ramadan. Others should imbibe the spirit and do whatever they can.



But we must differentiate between worldly pleasures and worldly responsibilities. We take a break from the former and not the latter. Syedna Abdullah ibn Abbas, Radi-Allahu unhu, was performing itikaf, when a person came and sat down silently. Sensing his distressed condition Ibn Abbas enquired about his situation, learnt that he needed help, and proceeded to leave the masjid to go out and help him. Now this action does nullify the itikaf, making a makeup obligatory. So the person, though grateful, was curious. Explaining his action, Ibn Abbas related a hadith that when a person makes efforts to help his brother, he earns the reward for performing itikaf for ten years.



This brings us to the second statement to consider: that Ramadan is the month of kindness and charity. With those in distress in the millions in the world today, the need for remembering this message of Ramadan cannot be overstated.



Unfortunately, today another scene seems to be dominant in some parts of the Muslim world. Here Ramadan is the month of celebrations, shopping, fancy iftars at posh restaurants, entertainment and gossip. People stay up at night but not for worship; they while away that time watching TV or wandering in the bazaar. Ramadan here is more a month of feasting than fasting.



No one can take away our Ramadan from us; we just give it away ourselves. And if we realize the utter blunder we have made, we can take it back.

VERY INSPIRING

When I woke up this morning I asked myself: What are some of the secrets of success in life?

 I found the answer right there in my very room.

The Fan said - Be cool.

The Roof said - Aim high.

The Window said - See the world.

The Clock said - Every minute is precious.

The Mirror said - Reflect before you act.

The Door said - Push hard for your goals.

And don't forget, the Carpet said - Kneel down & pray

Reminder about Allah's Sovereignty

We do not trangress against ALLAH(swt)'S DECREE.  This shows there is all power of God's creations of Nature.  Rain brings us fresher air. oh yeah!

A non muslim's experience with covered up

I walked down the street in my long white dress and inch-long, black hair one afternoon, and truck drivers whistled and shouted obscenities at me. I felt defeated. I had just stepped out of a hair salon. I had cut my hair short, telling the hairdresser to trim it as she would a cut a man’s hair.I sat numbly as my hairdresser skillfully sheared into my shoulder-length hair with her scissors, asking me with every inch she cut off if; I was freaking out yet. I wasn’t freaking out, but I felt self-mutilated.

I believe that men who see women as only bad word is not allowed beings often commit violence against them, such as rape and battery. bad word is not allowed abuse and assault are not only my fears, but my reality.

I was molested and raped. My experiences with men who violated me have made me angry and frustrated.

How do I stop the violence? How do I prevent men from seeing me as an object rather than a female? How do I stop them from equating the two? How do I proceed with life after experiencing what others only dread? The experiences have left me with questions about my identity. Am I just another Chinese-American female? I used to think that I have to arrive at a conclusion about who I am, but now I realize that my identity is constantly evolving in .


MY EXPERIENCE OF BEING "HIJABED"

One experience that was particularly educational was when I ?dressed up? as a Muslim woman for a drive along Crenshaw Boulevard with three Muslim men as part of a newsmagazine project. I wore a white, long-sleeved cotton shirt, and a flowery silk scarf that covered my head, which I borrowed from a Muslim woman. Not only did I look the part, I believed I felt the part. Of course, I wouldn’t really know what it feels like to be Hijabed-I coined this word for the lack of a better term-everyday, because I was not raised with Islamic teachings.


However, people perceived me as a Muslim woman and did not treat me as a bad word is not allowed being by making cruel remarks. I noticed that men’s eyes did not glide over my body as has happened when I wasn’t Hijabed. I was fully clothed, exposing only my face. I remembered walking into an Islamic center and an African-American gentleman inside addressed me as ?sister?, and asked where I came from. I told him I was originally from China. That didn’t seem to matter. He respected me and assumed I was Muslim. I didn’t know how to break the news to him because I wasn’t sure if I was or not.

I walked into the store that sold African jewelry and furniture and another gentleman asked me as I was walking out if I was Muslim. I looked at him and smiled, not knowing how to respond. I chose not to answer.


BEING HIJABED CHANGED OTHERS’ PERCEPTION OF ME

Outside the store, I asked one of the Muslim men I was with, Am I Muslim?? He explained that everything that breathes and submits is. I have concluded that I may be and just don’t know it. I haven’t labeled myself as such yet. I don’t know enough about Islam to assert that I am Muslim.


HIJAB AS OPPRESSION: A SUPERFICIAL AND MISGUIDED VIEW

I consciously chose to be Hijabed because I was searching for respect from men. Initially, as both a Women’s Studies major and a thinking female, I bought into the Western view that the wearing of a scarf is oppressive. After this experience and much reflection, I have arrived at the conclusion that such a view is superficial and misguided.

THE MOST LIBERATING EXPERIENCE OF MY LIFE

I covered up that day out of choice, and it was the most liberating experience of my life. I now see alternatives to being a woman. I discovered that the way I dress dictated others’ reaction towards me. It saddens me that this is a reality. It is a reality that I have accepted, and chose to conquer rather than be conquered by it. It was my sexuality that I covered, not my femininity. The covering of the former allowed the liberation of the latter.


by Kathy Chin

This article was originally published in Al-Talib, the newsmagazine of the Muslim Students’ Association of the University of California in Los Angeles (UCLA) in October 1994. At the time of its publication, Kathy Chin was a senior at UCLA majoring in Psychobiology and Women’s Studies.