Eid-ul-Adha

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Al-Adha Day: A Model for Sharing and Caring

By Wael Shihab

`Eid Al-Adha has unique spiritual, devotional, educational, and social meanings. It implants in the Muslim's heart the spirit of sharing and caring. It has special rituals, ethics, and values that could, if properly observed, change a Muslim's affairs to the better.


On the day of `Eid, a Muslim is recommended by the Sunnah to have a shower before going to the `Eid Prayer and wear the best of his or her clothes. This reflects Islam's care for cleanliness and beauty. A Muslim should be careful regarding his or her appearance, dress, and personal hygiene.

In the early morning of the `Eid day, a Muslim goes out to pray `Eid with his or her fellow brothers and sisters. Every member of the community should share the happiness and attend the gathering of the `Eid. Kids, women and men, young and elderly, should go out for the `Eid Prayer. It is well-known that even women in their menses are allowed to go out and watch the `Eid Prayer and celebration in the open areas (al-musala) to share the community this blessed time. This implants in the Muslim's heart the sense of brotherhood, unity, and togetherness.

(http://www.islamonline.net/English/Eid_AlAdha/1430/share_care/02.shtml">)

First 10 days of the Month of DhulHijjah - Nov. 18th.09

According to the Prophet, sal Allahu 'alayhi wa sallam, who said,

"There is no day more honorable in Allah's sight and no acts more beloved therein to Allah than those in these ten days (of Dhul-Hijjah)"

In these first 10 days of the Month of DhulHijjah we find:

...the 9th day is the day of Arafah,
...and the 10th day is Eid.

Even if you are not traveling for Hajj, you can still put in extra effort to do more good deeds.

What sort of extra good deeds can you do?
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1. Fasting these 10 days

2. Giving more charity during these 10 days

3. Say the "Eid" Takbeers loudly wherever you go. (Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. Laa ilaaha illa Allah. Allahu Akbar, Allahu Akbar. Walillaahil hamd.)

4. Try to pray more prayers in the Masjid

5. Increase ties of kinship (visit family, say kind words to them, etc.)

6. Perform more voluntary prayers at home

7. Read more Quran, contemplating the meanings

8. Do more Dhikr

9. Ask for forgiveness more frequently


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The wisdom behind delaying the answer for a supplication

It is puzzling your insistence on asking for your desires and whenever they were delayed your insistence increases without thinking that your are not granted what you ask for because of:

1. Your benefit (for what you have asked could be a harm to you in a way)

2. Your sins (for the sinner's prayers are not answered).

If it was the second reason, you will have to clear the path of answering from the stains of sins.

If it was the first reason then look at what you ask for..is it to strengthen your religion, or just a plain earthly desire?

~ If it was only an earthly desire, then know that it is the kindness and the mercy of Allah that delayed it for you, and by your insistence, you are like a child that asks for what harms him and he is denied that for his own good.

~ And if you think that what you asked for is for the benefit of your religion then your benefit could be in delaying it, or the well-being of your faith is by the nonexistence of it.

In other words, the planning of the Truth the Almighty (Allah) is better for you than your own planning, and He could deprive you from what you ask to test your patience.

So let Him see from you a determined patience and you will soon see from Him what will give you joy.

And when you have cleaned the paths of answering (of supplication) from the stains of sin and was patient about what He has chosen for you, then everything that happens to you is better for you whether you were given or deprived of what you have requested.

[Imaam Ibn al-Jawzee (rh) ]


(http://www.lutonmuslims.co.uk/)

Ghibtah

...is a type of envy/jealousy – but free from malice.

There is the famous hadith about Ghibtah,

عن ابن عمر رضى الله عنهما قال : قال رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم : (لا حسد إلا في اثنتين : رجل آتاه الله القرآن فهو يتلوه آناء الليل وآناء النهار ورجل آتاه الله مالاً فهو ينفقه آناء الليل وآناء النهار). (البخاري ومسلم)

Ibn 'Umar radhiyAllahu ‘anhuma reported that the Prophet sallallahu ‘alaihi wa sallam said,

"Envy is allowed in two cases, in case of a man whom Allah has given the Qur'aan and who recites it throughout night and day; and a man on whom Allah has bestowed wealth who gives it away throughout night and day."
[Sahih al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim]


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Scholars have emphasised the distinction between "Ghibtah" and "Hasad".

Al-Ghibtah means to have the desire to achieve the good qualities that others have. Al-Ghibtah is a positive behavior which motivates you to do good, as good as other people do.

For example, when you see a knowledgeable person, you admire and wish to be knowledgeable like him; when you see someone who do a lot of ibadah, you wish to do the same; when you see a rich person who pays charity, you admire him and wish to be like him.

So you admire these people for their good actions and hence you wish to be like them.

Al-Ghibtah, then, is actually good and desirable. It influences our attitude and behavior in a positive way.

Al-Hasad, on the other hand, means 'envy'. It is a negative behavior which is prohibited and condemned in Islam. The Prophet, sallallahu alayhi wasallam, said that al-Hasad demolishes the rewards.

It is envy and jealousy that occurs when you see someone who is given some privileges that you do not have.

It is Allah who gives His Bounty to anyone He choses. So we should not feel any objection to Allah's plan.

That is why al-Hasad is considered a very bad behavior and a major sin.

(Source: http://fortyhadith.iiu.edu.my/hadith25.htm)

Prophet Muhammad's (p.b.u.h) love for his people

Once our Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) was sitting with some of his companion and suddenly he (p.b.u.h) said, "Alas! I wish I could meet my brothers."


Abu Bakr and Umar, who were around him said, "Are we not your brothers? We believe in you and we migrated with you."

Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h) replied, "You are my companions. You accepted Islam and migrated with me but "Alas I wish I could meet my brothers...!"

Again they asked the same question, Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h) replied the same answer. Then they asked "O, Prophet who are those people?"

Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h) replied, "My brothers are those who are during the Akhir uz Zaman (end of time). They will believe in me although they have not seen me."

This shows a glimpse of our Prophet Muhammad's (p.b.u.h) love for us.

(May the blessings of Allah S.W.T be upon him, his family and his companions)

Remembrance of Allah on Friday

Allah commanded the believers to gather to worship Him on Friday,

يأَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ إِذَا نُودِىَ لِلصَّلَوةِ مِن يَوْمِ الْجُمُعَةِ فَاسْعَوْاْ إِلَى ذِكْرِ اللَّهِ

(O you who believe! When the call is proclaimed for the Salah on Al-Jumu`ah (Friday), then hasten (Fas`aw) to the remembrance of Allah) meaning, go to it and head for it.


The meaning of Sa`y (hasten) here does not refer to walking quickly. It only refers to the importance of it.


`Umar bin Al-Khattab and Ibn Mas`ud - may Allah be pleased with them - recited it; (فَامْضُوا إِلَى ذِكْرِ اللهِ) ("Then proceed to the remembrance of Allah.'')


As for walking in haste to the prayer, that was indeed prohibited, since it was recorded in the Two Sahihs from Abu Hurayrah that the Prophet said,

إِذَا سَمِعْتُمُ الْإِقَامَةَ فَامْشُوا إِلَى الصَّلَاةِ وَعَلَيْكُمُ السَّكِينَةَ وَالْوَقَارَ وَلَا تُسْرِعُوا، فَمَا أَدْرَكْتُمْ فَصَلُّوا وَمَا فَاتَكُمْ فَأَتِمُّوا

(When you hear the Iqamah, proceed to offer the prayer with calmness and solemnity and do not rush. And pray whatever you catch, and complete whatever you have missed.) This is the wording with Al-Bukhari.

Abu Qatadah said, "While we were praying behind the Messenger of Allah he heard commotion. At the end of the prayer, the Prophet said;

مَا شَأْنُكُمْ

(What is the matter with you) They said, `We hastened to the prayer.' The Prophet said,

فَلَا تَفْعَلُوا، إِذَا أَتَيْتُمُ الصَّلَاةَ فَامْشُوا وَعَلَيْكُمُ السَّكِينَةَ فَمَا أَدْرَكْتُمْ فَصَلُّوا وَمَا فَاتَكُمْ فَأَتِمُّوا

(Don't do that. When you come for prayer, there should be tranquility upon you. Pray what remains of the prayer and complete what you have missed.)'' The Two Sahihs collected this Hadith.

Al-Hasan commented, "By Allah! Hastening to the prayer is not accomplished by the feet. Indeed they were prohibited from coming to prayer without tranquility and dignity. Rather it is about the hearts, the intention, and the submission.''

Qatadah said,

فَاسْعَوْاْ إِلَى ذِكْرِ اللَّهِ

"(then hasten to the remembrance of Allah) means that you have to hasten to the prayer with your heart and actions, and walk to it.''

'Abdullah ibn al-Mubarak

He used to say, "The beginning of knowledge is the intention, then listening, then understanding, then action, then preservation, and then spreading it."

***

Qadi Abu'l-Fadl said that as-Sadafi mentioned, "When Ibn al-Mubarak came of age, his father sent him 50,000 to use for commerce. He sought after knowledge until he had spent the money. When it was gone, his father met him and said, 'What have you bought?' He brought out his books for him and said, 'This is my trade.' His father went into the house and gave him 30,000 dirhams more and said, 'Take this and follow your trade with them,' and he spent them."

***

Ibn al-Mubarak said, "I studied adab for thirty years and I studied knowledge for twenty years."

***

Some Lessons from Ibn al-Mubarak :


1- No matter how bad you think you are, you can always become better.

2 – You should associate with honorable people.

3 – You should be a helpful guest.

4 – You should give money to the poor.

5 – You should always return borrowed items to their owners.

6 – You should be brave, and hide your good deeds.

7 – Have a tender heart.

8 – Be generous to your friends.

9 – Don’t give in to Satan’s whispers.

10 – Sincerely pray for people.

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He was asked, "Which person has the best state?" He said, "The one who devotes himself to his Lord."

***

Ibn al-Mubarak died in Hit, returning from a naval expedition and was buried in Hit in Ramadan in 181.

Al-Bukhari said that he was born in 118.

When he was near death, he told Nasr, his client, "Put my head on the earth." Nasr wept. He said, "Why do you weep?" He said, "I remember what you had in it of blessing and now you are dying a stranger and a pauper."

He told him, "Be quiet. I asked Allah to let me live the life of the rich and to make me die the death of the poor." Then he said, "Put me down and do not address me again unless I speak again. Put me down so that it is my last words."

***

(Sources : "Tartib al-Madarik" & "Sifat as-Safwah" )

Ramadan - Episode 30

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 30 - Social Awareness

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xozoQnp9fgE)

~ Imam Suhaib Webb encourages everyone to get involved
with Serving the Creator by Serving the Creation.

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AL-QURAN : Al-Baqara(2)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"To Allâh belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is on the earth, and whether you disclose what is in your ownselves or conceal it, Allâh will call you to account for it. Then He forgives whom He wills and punishes whom He wills. And Allâh is Able to do all things." (2:284)

HADITH

Ibn `Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) reported that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) used to supplicate:

"O Allah! To You I have submitted, and in You do I believe, and in You I put my trust, to You do I turn, and for You I argued. O Allah, I seek refuge with You through Your Power; there is none worthy of worship except You Alone; that You safeguard me against going astray. You are the Ever Living, the One Who sustains and protects all that exists; the One Who never dies, whereas human beings and jinn will all die".

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Ramadan - Episode 29

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 29 - Da'wah to Allah

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=0JkcTKwjku4)

~ Mariam Khatib talks about Da'wah to Allah.

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AL-QURAN : Al-A'raf(7)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"And remember your Lord within yourself, humbly and with fear without loudness in words in the mornings, and in the afternoons and be not of those who are neglectful." (7:205)

HADITH

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,

"When any of you is invited to a meal, he should accept the invitation. If he is observing Saum (fasting), he should supplicate for the betterment of the host and if he is not fasting, he should eat.''

[Muslim].

Commentary:

Shari`ah permits a person to break a voluntary fasting. The example of Messenger of Allah (PBUH) clearly shows that it is not binding on him to keep it again as a redeeming step. A man is, therefore, free to break his voluntary fasting and participate in the feast to which he is invited.

However, if somebody is reluctant to break the fast, he should pray for the good and welfare of the host. But we should refuse to attend such treats which are flagrantly masked by extravagance and frivolous un-Islamic rites to the disobedience of Allah.

Ramadan - Episode 28

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 28 - Generosity

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5cgO-RoPi-U)

~ Dr. Esam Omeish talks about generosity.

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AL-QURAN : Al-Baqara(2)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"Not upon you (Muhammad SAW) is their guidance, but Allâh guides whom He wills. And whatever you spend in good, it is for yourselves, when you spend not except seeking Allâh's Countenance. And whatever you spend in good, it will be repaid to you in full, and you shall not be wronged." (2:272)

"Those who spend their wealth (in Allâh's Cause) by night and day, in secret and in public, they shall have their reward with their Lord. On them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve." (2:274)

HADITH

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,

"Wealth is not diminished by giving (in charity). Allah augments the honour of one who forgives; and one who displays humbleness towards another seeking the pleasure of Allah, Allah exalts him in ranks.''

[Muslim].

Commentary:

This Hadith has described three facts.

First, Sadaqah does not diminish wealth because Allah blesses the rest of it and thus recompenses it. Besides, the loss of wealth of the almsgiver will certainly be rewarded on the Day of Resurrection.

Second, man thinks that a conciliatory or forgiving attitude will weaken his position in the eyes of others. He erroneously takes it as his disparagement and insult. However, this Hadith reveals the reality that by this way, Allah (SWT) raises his image and he is not belittled at all, because a forgiving gesture will enhance his esteem in the hearts of people, and in the Hereafter, Divine reward for it will definitely lead to his elevation.

Third, if somebody displays affability and humbleness in his behaviour, Allah (SWT) will project his prestige and dignity into the hearts of others or bless him in the Hereafter.

Ramadan - Episode 27

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 27 - Forgiveness

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Nb0OeZWw0-o)

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AL-QURAN : Al-Hujraat(49)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

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

"O you who believe! Let not a group scoff at another group, it may be that the latter are better than the former; Nor let (some) women scoff at other women, it may be that the latter are better than the former, Nor defame one another, nor insult one another by nicknames. How bad is it, to insult one's brother after having Faith [i.e. to call your Muslim brother (a faithful believer) as: "O sinner", or "O wicked"]. And whosoever does not repent, then such are indeed Zâlimûn (wrong-doers)." (49:11)

HADITH

Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,

"Allah has one hundred mercies, out of which He has sent down only one for jinn, mankind, animals and insects, through which they love one another and have compassion for one another; and through it, wild animals care for their young. Allah has retained ninety-nine mercies to deal kindly with His slaves on the Day of Resurrection.''

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Commentary:

1. We learn from this Hadith that kind and compassionate treatment is liked by Allah and is in fact His Blessing and Benevolence. This is the reason He has given a part of it to His creatures, and a person who is so hard-hearted, that he is not even aware of it has a defect which is extremely displeasing to Allah. Moreover, it is a sign that such a person is deprived of Divine blessing and mercy.

2. On the Day of Resurrection, Almighty Allah will bestow upon the believers hundred mercies. This news has great hopes and joy for His slaves.

Ramadan - Episode 26

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 26 - Brotherhood/Sisterhood

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VDtbLSv72Fs)

~ Zaied Abbassi gives advice on increasing brotherhood/sisterhood.

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AL-QURAN : An-Nuur(24)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"O you who believe! Enter not houses other than your own, until you have asked permission and greeted those in them, that is better for you, in order that you may remember. (24:27)

HADITH

Al-Bara' bin `Azib (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) commanded us to do seven things: to visit the sick, to follow the funeral (of a dead believer), to invoke the Mercy of Allah upon one who sneezes (i.e., by saying to him: Yarhamuk-Allah), to support the weak, to help the oppressed, to promote the greeting of `As-Salamu `Alaikum', and to help those who swear to do something to keep their oaths.

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].


Commentary:

Muslims have obligations towards one another. The fulfillment of this social responsibility creates among them mutual love, a sense of cohesion and feelings of respect for one another.

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Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,

"By Him in Whose Hand is my life! You will not enter Jannah until you believe, and you will not believe until you love one another. Shall I inform you of something which, if you do, you will love one another? Promote greetings amongst yourselves.''

[Muslim].

Commentary:

Iman is a prerequisite for entry to Jannah. Whereas mutual love among Muslims is complementary to it, and this quality can only be attained by giving a social character to the Islamic form of greeting, that is to say, `As-Salamu `Alaikum.'

Ramadan - Episode 25

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 25 - Awareness of Allah
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ayiApKYmCbc)

~ Br. Marwan Marouf talks about the body and spirit in Ramadan

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AL-QURAN : An-Nur(24)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"The only saying of the faithful believers, when they are called to Allâh (His Words, the Qur'ân) and His Messenger (SAW), to judge between them, is that they say: "We hear and we obey." And such are the successful (who will live forever in Paradise). (24:51)

HADITH

Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said,

"Allah says: ' When a slave of Mine draws near to Me a span, I draw near to him a cubit; and if he draws near to Me a cubit, I draw near to him a fathom. And if he comes to Me walking, I go to him running.'''.

[Al-Bukhari].

Commentary:

This Hadith mentions infinite benevolence, generosity, kindness and regard of Allah for His slaves, which is evident from the reward that He gives to His slaves even on their minor good deeds.

Ramadan - Episode 24

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 24 - The Manners of Dialogue

(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=F09IFdBwH-4)

~ Dr. Souhail talks about the manners of dialogue.

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AL-QURAN : Ash-Shura(42)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"And verily, whosoever shows patience and forgives that would truly be from the things recommended by Allâh. (42:43)

HADITH

`Aishah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said,

"Allah is Forbearer and He loves forbearance, and rewards for forbearance while He does not reward severity, and does not give for any thing besides it (forbearance).''

[Muslim]

Commentary:

Mildness is the opposite of harshness. Allah enjoins softness and dislikes stiffness in human relations. Allah assures of reward for gentle behaviour in society, not for unkindness or anything like that. However, inflexibility is preferred to flexibility when there arises a question of religious matters and the limits set by Allah.

Ramadan - Episode 23

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 23 - Islamic Character
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=N2vEi0lH0_c)

~ Dr. Imad Bayoun explains what Islamic character truly is.
He discusses ways of recognising ones true character
and gives tips on self improvement.

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AL-QURAN : Al-Imran(3)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"Everyone shall taste death. And only on the Day of Resurrection shall you be paid your wages in full. And whoever is removed away from the Fire and admitted to Paradise, he indeed is successful. The life of this world is only the enjoyment of deception (a deceiving thing). (3:185)

HADITH

`Abdullah bin `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,

"It is the duty of a Muslim who has something which is to be given as a bequest not to have it for two nights without executing a written will.''

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

In the narration of Muslim it is narrated as `three nights'. Ibn `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) said: Since I heard the Messenger of Allah say this, I have never spent a night without having my will with me.

Commentary:

The emphasis of Messenger of Allah (PBUH) on the necessity of making a last will shows that man has no knowledge of the time of his death. It is necessary for the rich that they should keep with them a testament so as to leave their affairs settled after their death and to ward off any untoward situation with regard to the distribution of their property among their inheritors.

Ramadan - Episode 22

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 22 - Social Consciousness
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_t76gNF7t8I)

~ Muslema Purmul reminds us that we should care for all
those around us regardless of their faith.

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AL-QURAN : At-Tahrim (6)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"O you who believe! Turn to Allâh with sincere repentance! It may be that your Lord will expaite from you your sins, and admit you into Gardens under which rivers flow (Paradise) the Day that Allâh will not disgrace the Prophet (Muhammad SAW) and those who believe with him, Their Light will run forward before them and (with their Records — Books of deeds) in their right hands They will say: "Our Lord! Keep perfect our Light for us [and do not put it off till we cross over the Sirât (a slippery bridge over the Hell) safely] and grant us forgiveness. Verily, You are Able to do all things[] ." (6:8)

HADITH

Ibn `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,

"All of you are guardians and are responsible for your subjects. The ruler is a guardian and responsible for his subjects; the man is a guardian of his family; the woman is guardian in her husband's house and responsible for her wards; a servant is guardian of his master's property and responsible for his ward. So all of you are guardians and are responsible for your subjects".

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Commentary:

This Hadith ordains every individual in society, whether a ruler or ruled or even a woman who leads her life within the four walls of her house, to perform one's duties within one's own sphere.

Ramadan - Episode 21

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 21 - Worshiping Allah
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TiBwIS-beX8)

~ Dr. Souhail talks about offering help and service to others.

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AL-QURAN : Al-Hijr(15:45-48)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"Truly! The Muttaqûn (pious and righteous persons) will be amidst Gardens and water-springs (Paradise). (45)

"(It will be said to them): 'Enter therein (Paradise), in peace and security.' (46)

"And We shall remove from their breasts any deep feeling of bitterness (that they may have), (So they will be like) brothers facing each other on thrones. (47)

"No sense of fatigue shall touch them, nor shall they (ever) be asked to leave it." (48)

HADITH

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,

"Allah, the Exalted, has said: `I have prepared for my righteous slaves what no eye has seen, no ear has heard, and the mind of no man has conceived.' If you wish, recite:

`No person knows what is kept hidden for them of joy as a reward for what they used to do.''' (As-Sajda(32):17)

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Commentary:

About the gifts and pleasures of Jannah, here a Hadith has been stated in the Words of Allah. The subject matter is confirmed from the Verse of the Qur'an given in the text of the Hadith.

"May Allah admit us into Jannah in His Mercy." Amiin.

Ramadan - Episode 20

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 20 - Awareness of Allah
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=eDSQXDJb0NU)

~ Marwan Marouf talks about Awareness of Allah.

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AL-QURAN : An-Nahl(16)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"Verily, Allâh enjoins Al-Adl (i.e. justice and worshipping none but Allâh Alone - Islâmic Monotheism) and Al-Ihsân [i.e. to be patient in performing your duties to Allâh, totally for Allâh's sake and in accordance with the Sunnah (legal ways) of the Prophet SAW in a perfect manner], and giving (help) to kith and kin[] (i.e. all that Allâh has ordered you to give them e.g., wealth, visiting, looking after them, or any other kind of help): and forbids Al-Fahshâ' (i.e all evil deeds, e.g. illegal sexual acts, disobedience of parents, polytheism, to tell lies, to give false witness, to kill a life without right), and Al-Munkar (i.e all that is prohibited by Islâmic law: polytheism of every kind, disbelief and every kind of evil deeds), and Al-Baghy (i.e. all kinds of oppression), He admonishes you, that you may take heed."

(16:90)

HADITH

`Auf bin Malik (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,

"The best of your rulers are those whom you love and who love you, and those who supplicate Allah in your favour and you supplicate Allah in their favour. The worst of your rulers are those whom you hate and who hate you; and whom you curse and who curse you.'' It was asked (by those who were present): "Should not we oppose them?'' He said, "No, as long as they establish Salat; as long as they establish Salat in your midst.''

[Muslim].



Commentary:

The Hadith identifies two categories of rulers.

First, those rulers who are well-wishers of people and provide them with justice. These are the best rulers for whom people also pray.

Second, the worst rulers who are only concerned with their rule and interests and take no interest in providing justice to people and removing their difficulties.

In fact, rulers are advised to adhere to justice, uprightness and equity as this can endear them to Allah as well as to people.

Moreover, we are told that rebellion against rulers is disallowed till they commit a flagrant act of disbelief and stop abiding by the duties of Islam, particularly Salat (prayer).

Ramadan - Episode 19

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 19 - Organization
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cjm_SfjMSP4)

~ Zaied Abbassi goes over practical steps
on becoming more organized in our lives.

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HADITH

Abu Umamah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: I heard the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) saying,

"Read the Qur'an, for it will come as an intercessor for its reciters on the Day of Resurrection.''

[Muslim].

Commentary:

This Hadith tells the excellence of reciting the Qur'an and acting upon its injunctions. Intercession (in this Hadath) means that the Qur'an will be endowed with the power of speech by Allah and it will request Allah to forgive the sins of its reciters who acted upon its teachings. Allah will accept the request of the Qur'an, as signified in other Ahadith.

~~~~~~~~~~~~~

`Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: The Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,

"The one who is proficient in the recitation of the Qur'an will be with the honourable and obedient scribes (angels) and he who recites the Qur'an and finds it difficult to recite, doing his best to recite it in the best way possible, will have a double reward.''

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].


Commentary:

Proficient here means one who reads the Qur'an in accordance with the rules of "Ilm At-Tajwid'' (the science of the recitation of the Qur'an) as is evidenced from the words of Imam Bukhari's narration and the title given to the chapter.

This Hadith also highlights the merit of the reader of the Qur'an who does not know `Ilm At-Tajwid, and for that reason cannot read it fluently. But in spite of this, he reads it with great effort. He will be given double reward, one for the difficulty encountered in reciting it, and another for reading it.

Safratun translated in the Hadith as scribes (angels) mean the angels that convey the Wahy (Revelation) to the Messenger of Allah. Imam Bukhari has taken it to mean "one who makes reconciliation''. The angels who bring Wahy and chastisement from Allah.

Ramadan - Episode 18

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 18 - The Family
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Vf3ls4g-sXQ)

~ Imam Suhaib Webb emphasizes the importance of the family.
He encourages increase in family bonding and activities
during Ramadan and gives some practical suggestions for ways
to increase family togetherness.

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SURAH Al-Isra (17:23-24)


In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"And your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him. And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life, say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them but address them in terms of honour." (17:23)

"And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility through mercy, and say: "My Lord! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up when I was young." (17:24)

HADITH

`Abdullah bin `Amr bin Al-`as (May Allah be pleased with them) reported:

Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "It is one of the gravest sins to abuse one's parents.''

It was asked (by the people): "O Messenger of Allah, how can a man abuse his own parents?''

Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "He abuses the father of somebody who, in return, abuses the former's father; he then abuses the mother of somebody who, in return, abuses his mother".

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Commentary:

We learn from this Hadith that one should not abuse anyone's parents, because in the event, he is paid in the same coin, he will be responsible for disgracing his own parents.

Ramadan - Episode 17

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 17 - Working in Ramadan
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=X0JTYdEA4fw)


~ Br. Bilal Kaleem talks about working in Ramadan.

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SURAH Ash-Shura(42:43)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"And verily, whosoever shows patience and forgives that would truly be from the things recommended by Allâh." (42:43)

HADITH

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,

"He who believes in Allah and the Last Day let him not harm his neighbour; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day let him show hospitality to his guest; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day let him speak good or remain silent".

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Commentary:

This Hadith unfolds the fruits of Faith. One who does not have the qualities mentioned in it, is deprived of the blessings of the Faith.

Faith of such a person is like a fruitless tree, or a flower without fragrance, or a body without soul.

Ramadan - Episode 16

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 16 - Physically Fit
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UzXq-roRN6U)


~ Br. Omar Abdala talks about being physically fit

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SURAH Al-Ahqaf (46:15)


In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"And We have enjoined on man to be dutiful and kind to his parents. His mother bears him with hardship And she brings him forth with hardship, and the bearing of him, and the weaning of him is thirty months, till when he attains full strength and reaches forty years, he says: "My Lord! Grant me the power and ability that I may be grateful for Your Favour which You have bestowed upon me and upon my parents, and that I may do righteous good deeds, such as please You, and make my off-spring good. Truly, I have turned to You in repentance, and truly, I am one of the Muslims (submitting to Your Will)." (46:15)

HADITH

Abdullah bin `Amr bin Al-`as (May Allah be pleased with them) reported:

A man asked Messenger of Allah (PBUH), "Which act in Islam is the best?''

He (PBUH) replied, "To feed (the poor and the needy) and to greet those whom you know and those you do not know.''

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Commentary:

The provision of food to somebody may signify almsgiving or offering or an act of hospitality. It may also be interpreted as meeting the want of a needy person: If he is hungry, he should be fed; if he lacks clothes, the same should be given to him; if he is sick, medicine should be provided to him; and if he is under debt, he should be helped to pay off his debt, and so on.

As for greeting (saying `As-Salamu `alaikum'), it is meant to be popularized because it brings hearts closer to each other and is an antidote to hatred and hostility.

Ramadan - Episode 15

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 15 - Patience
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=6OEk4IsVBNI)


~ Muslema Purmul reminds us of the virtues of patience.

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SURAH Al-Imran(3:92)


In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"By no means shall you attain Al-Birr (piety, righteousness - here it means Allâh's Reward, i.e. Paradise), unless you spend (in Allâh's Cause) of that which you love; and whatever of good you spend, Allâh knows it well." (92)

HADITH

Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Abu Talhah (May Allah be pleased with him) was the richest among the Ansar of Al-Madinah and possessed the largest property from palm-trees, and among his possessions that he loved most, was his garden known as Bairuha' which was opposite the mosque, and Messenger of Allah (PBUH) often visited it and drank from its fresh water.

When the above Ayah(3:92) was revealed, Abu Talhah came to Messenger of Allah (PBUH) and said that, "the dearest of my property is Bairuha' so I have given it as Sadaqah (charity) for Allah's sake, and I anticipate its reward with Him; so spend it, O Messenger of Allah, as Allah guides you.''

Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "Well-done! That is profit earning property. I have heard what you have said, but I think you should spend it on your nearest relatives.''

So Abu Talhah (May Allah be pleased with him) distributed it among nearest relatives and cousins.

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Commentary:

1. This Hadith mentions the spirit of obedience to Allah and His Prophet (PBUH) and effort which the Companions of the Prophet (PBUH) made for attaining a higher status in virtue.

2. To spend the best of one's property in the way of Allah is a sign of perfection of Faith.

3. In the matter of Sadaqat (alms giving and charity), preference must be given to one's closest relations, provided they are poor and stand in need of help, otherwise, these should be spent on other deserving people.

Ramadan - Episode 14

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 14 - Sincere Intentions
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lin6RFFGN1E)


~ Zaied Abbassi of MAS Youth New Jersey reminds us
to have sincere intentions. He outlines some
of the blessings of sincere intentions and practical steps
towards attaining this quality.

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SURAH Al-Ahzab (33:21)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"Indeed in the Messenger of Allâh (Muhammad SAW) you have a good example to follow for him who hopes for (the Meeting with) Allâh and the Last Day and remembers Allâh much." (33:21)

HADITH

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said,

"Do not ask me unnecessarily about the details of the things which I do not mention to you. Verily, the people before you were doomed because they were used to putting many questions to their Prophets and had differences about their Prophets. Refrain from what I forbid you and do what I command you to the best of your ability and capacity".

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

Commentary:

To be unnecessarily inquisitive and create differences and confusion in the Injunctions of Allah and His Prophet (PBUH) leads to destruction. The safest course lies only in following the Orders of Allah and His Prophet (PBUH) without `ifs' and `buts.'

Hairsplitting in religious issues falls in this category. It opens the door for chaos and conflict and paves the way for disunity and separation.

May Allah give sense to the Muslim Ummah to abandon this road and take the Right Path which ensures peace and security. Let it be absolutely clear that the Right Path is one and one alone. There cannot be multiple right paths, it is one and singular. Once a community leaves the Straight Path, it is sure to go astray.

Ramadan - Episode 13

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 13 - Changing Ones Self
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=_PB7sfknLJw)


~ Imam Suhaib Webb talks about the importance of the "self"
and discusses ways on working to change ones self
for the better during Ramadan.

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SURAH Al-Jumua (62:10)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"Then when the (Jumu'ah) Salât (prayer) is ended, you may disperse through the land, and seek the Bounty of Allâh (by working, etc.), and remember Allâh much, that you may be successful " (62:10)

HADITH

Zubair bin `Awwam (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (Peace be upon him) said,

"It is far better for you to take your rope, go to the mountain, (cut some firewood) carry it on your back, and sell it and thereby save your face than begging from people whether they give you or refuse.''

[Al-Bukhari].


Commentary:

As compared to beggary, this Hadith puts emphasis on hard work. However, people may look down upon manual labour or hard work, yet it is certainly far better than seeking charity servilely, because doing a job like this will certainly save a man's self-respect, whereas begging puts him in an awkward position.

To put it in this way, Islam stands for a man's deliverance from indignity and teaches him to keep his sense of dignity.

Ramadan - Episode 12

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In The Shade of Ramadan ~ Season 2

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Episode 12 - Love of Allah
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=lyQrqpAIBko)

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Surah Al-Imran

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"Say (O Muhammad SAW to mankind): "If you (really) love Allâh then follow me (i.e. accept Islâmic Monotheism, follow the Qur'ân and the Sunnah), Allâh will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allâh is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (3:31)

HADITH

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,

"The strong man is not the one who wrestles, but the strong man is in fact the one who controls himself in a fit of rage.''

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].


Commentary:

People are usually impressed by the physical power and strength of somebody. But the real strength of a man lies in the fact that he should be able to wrestle with his passions in a fit of anger and avoid committing an act for which he may subsequently regret.

This is a common observation that wild anger leads to many a wrongdoing of which man repents later on or sheds tears over the ruin resulting from it.

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Ramadan - Episode 11

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In The Shade of Ramadan ~ Season 2

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Episode 11 - Fear of Allah
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=mHsnSY5O4uA)


~ Br. Bilal Kaleem talks about Fear of Allah

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Surah Al-Anfal (8)


In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

O you who believe! If you obey and fear Allâh, He will grant you Furqân [(a criterion to judge between right and wrong), or (Makhraj, i.e. a way for you to get out from every difficulty)], and will expiate for you your sins, and forgive you; and Allâh is the Owner of the Great Bounty. (8:29)

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HADITH

Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said:

"Three (things) follow a dead person: Members of his family, his property and his deeds. Two of them return; and one remains with him. The people and his wealth return; his deeds remain with him".

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].



Commentary:

This Hadith has a warning for the Muslims that they should adopt the way of piety and fear (of Allah), not of sin and impiety because those are actions which will go with him to the grave and which decide his fate in the life after death.

If he carries with him good deeds, he will have a comfortable sojourn in Barzakh (the intervening stage between death and Resurrection).

On the contrary, if the record of his life is devoid of good deeds, all the wealth that he leaves behind, even if it is beyond calculation, will be of no avail to him because what he will be having with him will be the bad deeds which he performed during his life. These bad deeds will be a constant source of torture for him during his stay in Barzakh.

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Ramadan - Episode 10

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 10 -Remembrance of Allah
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZ9qJFgLRXY)

~ Bro. Omar Abdala talks about Remembrance of Allah

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AL-QURAN : Al-Imran (190 - 191)

"Verily! In the creation of the heavens and the earth, and in the alternation of night and day, there are indeed signs for men of understanding". (190)

"Those who remember Allâh (always, and in prayers) standing, sitting, and lying down on their sides, and think deeply about the creation of the heavens and the earth, (saying): "Our Lord! You have not created (all) this without purpose, glory to You! (Exalted are You above all that they associate with You as partners). Give us salvation from the torment of the Fire." (191)

HADITH

Anas bin Malik (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) delivered a Khutbah to us the like of which I had never heard from him before. In the course of the Khutbah, he said: "If you knew what I know, you would laugh little and weep much". Thereupon those present covered their faces and began to sob.


[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].


Commentary:

This Hadith has been mentioned in this chapter for the reason that it furnishes positive proof of the fact that the Companions of the Prophet (PBUH) used to weep out of fear of Allah when they heard sermons and preachings. It induces us to follow them.

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Ramadan - Episode 9

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 9 - Worshiping Allah
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=VeUqfnlHnsM)

~ Dr. Souhail talks about Worshiping Allah

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"For, believers are those who, when Allah is mentioned, feel a tremor in their hearts, and when they hear His signs rehearsed, find their faith strengthened, and put (all) their trust in their Lord." [Al-Anfal (8) : 2]

HADITH :

Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,

"Whoever says (upon leaving his house): `Bismillah, tawakkaltu `alallah, wa la hawla wa la quwwata illa billah [I begin with the Name of Allah; I trust in Allah; there is no altering of conditions but by the Power of Allah],' it will be said to him: 'You are guided, defended and protected.' The devil will go far away from him".


[Abu Dawud, At-Tirmidhi and An-Nasa'i].


Abu Dawud reported it with this addition: "One devil will say to another: 'How can you deal with a man who has been guided, defended and protected?".


Commentary:

The prayer quoted in this Hadith shows the importance of confidence and trust in Allah and request for security against the mischief of Satan.

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Ramadan - Episode 8

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In The Shade of Ramadan - Season 2

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Episode 8 - Managing Time
(http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=a4wsyqvvE84)

~ Managing time.

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Ibn Abbas (May Allah be pleased with them) said: One day, I was riding behind the Prophet (PBUH) when he said,

"O boy! I will instruct you in some matters. Be watchful of Allah (Commandments of Allah), He will preserve you. Safeguard His Rights, He will be ever with you. If you beg, beg of Him Alone; and if you need assistance, supplicate to Allah Alone for help. And remember that if all the people gather to benefit you, they will not be able to benefit you except that which Allah had foreordained (for you); and if all of them gather to do harm to you, they will not be able to afflict you with anything other than that which Allah had pre-destined against you. The pens had been lifted and the ink had dried up".


[At-Tirmidhi].


Another narration is: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said,

"Safeguard the Commandments of Allah, you will find Him before you. Remember Him in prosperity and He will remember you in adversity. Be sure that which you miss, was not to hit you; and what hits you, was never to miss you. Remember that the Help of Allah is obtained with patience, and relief emerges after distress, prosperity follows adversity, and hardship is followed by ease".



Commentary:

1. No one has the power to change the Decision of Allah.

2. Whatever trouble one has to suffer in this world, it does not last for ever. Every trouble is followed by prosperity, pleasure and happiness.

3. One should never ask other than Allah, anyone's help in supernatural way because it amounts to ascribing partnership with Allah. If a person is mindful of the Rights of Allah, then Allah in return takes care of his needs and helps him.

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