What Time Does Tarawih Start?

 

It is prescribed for Muslims to perform Tarawih prayer after Isha on the first night of Ramadan, which is the night on which the new moon is sighted or Muslims complete thirty days of Shaban. 

Similarly at the end of Ramadan, Tarawih prayer should not be offered if it is proven that the month has ended, either by sighting of the new moon of Eid or if the month of thirty days has been completed. 

It is clear that Tarawih prayer is not connected to the fast during the day in Ramadan, rather it is connected to the onset of the month at night in the beginning, and the last day of Ramadan at the end. 

We should not say that Tarawih prayer is a nafl prayer and it is permissible to offer it on any night and in congregation, because tarawih prayer is limited to the month of Ramadan, and those who offer this prayer are seeking the reward that comes for praying it. 

The ruling on offering this prayer in congregation is different from the ruling on offering other prayers in congregation. In Ramadan, it is permissible to pray tarawih in congregation on each night, whilst announcing it and encouraging others to join, unlike qiyam at other times, where praying qiyam in congregation is not part of the Sunnah unless it is done without having the intention beforehand, or it is done for the purpose of encouraging and teaching others.  So it is Sunnah to do it sometimes without committing to doing it all the time or persisting in that. 

Sheikh Muhammad al-Salih al-Uthaymeen (may Allah have mercy on him) said: 

Tarawih at times other than Ramadan is an innovation (bidah). For example, if the people wanted to gather to pray qiyam in congregation in the mosque at times other than Ramadan, this would be an innovation. 

There is nothing wrong with a person praying in congregation in his house occasionally at times other than Ramadan, because this is what the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) did. Once he led Ibn Abbas, and once Ibn Masud and once Hudhayfah ibn al-Yaman, in prayer in his house, but he did not adopt that as a regular Sunnah and he did not do that in the mosque.” (Al-Sharh al-Mumti’, 4/60-61)

Based on this, whoever offers Tarawih prayers before it is proven that Ramadan has begun is like one who offers a prayer at the wrong time. No reward will be written for him, even if he is free of the sin of doing that deliberately. 

Almighty Allah knows best.

Source: www.islamqa.info

Preparing Your Body for Ramadan

 

{O ye who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that ye may (learn) self-restraint.} (Surah Al-Baqarah 2:183).

The Muslim world is welcoming a very dear guest, the holy month of Ramadan, the month of auspicious blessings.

Having awareness of how to prepare our bodies physiologically and our daily diets for the month of fasting is highly essential for enhancement of functions of our organs and their internal processes.

Do you feel shell-shocked for having Ramadan around the corner? Looking for tips to get your health in order before Ramadan? Having bad sleeping habits and want this fixed before Ramadan?

To tackle this important topic, Dr. Amira Ayad, a pharmacist, nutrition specialist and natural health consultant provides answers to all these questions.

Q: I want to fast in some few scattered days before Ramadan. Could this cause fatigue to me before Ramadan or it will help me to get used to fasting?

A: On the contrary, fasting a few days before Ramadan, beside being Sunnah of the Prophet PBUH who used to fast a lot during the month of Sha’aban, will help your body get used to the process and your physiology to adapt to the changing in eating pattern.

Q: I suffer from Type II Diabetes , how can I prepare myself for Ramadan fasting?

A: The most important factor in type II Diabetes in controlling blood sugar level (BSL).

I’m not sure about the dosage and timing of your medication, but, I guess like most of type II diabetes patient, you take your medication once or twice a day. In this case, it would be no problem to gradually shift the time of the medication to be at the time of suhoor and Iftar.

If you take your medicine more than twice a day or you suffer from any other complications please consult your physician first before undergoing any changes.

Second, you should concentrate your carbohydrate intake on what we call low glycemic index foods. These are the carbohydrates that slowly release glucose in the blood like whole wheat, barley, brown rice, beans and legumes.

Avoid simple sugars and refined carbohydrates like white flour, syrups… which cause rapid rise in BSL and pauses stress on your pancreas.

Eat lots of fresh green vegetables, berries and add cinnamon to your desserts, 1-2 teaspoons of cinnamon a day is proven to help balance BSL. Consume adequate amount of protein with each meal (20-30%) of your diet. Alternate between vegetable sources (like legumes, nuts, and beans), meat poultry and fish. Make sure your diet contains lots of fiber as they are known to stabilize and balance your BSL.

Other foods that help stabilize BSL include berries, brewer’s yeast (great source of B vitamins), dairy especially cheese, egg yolk, fish, garlic, kelp, beans and vegetables (not root or starchy vegetables).

Finally, always keep something sweet handy and if at any time of the day you feel any sign of hypoglycemia (low blood sugar level) like dizziness, headache, fainting, nausea… don’t hesitate to break your fast as your body is sending you a warning signal.

Q: Shall we decrease the number of our practices and activities during Ramadan summery daytime to avoid dehydration?

A: This is a purely individual concept. Many people withstand hard work and labor with no signs of thirst or dehydration, while others couldn’t. The most important thing is to listen to your body signals and trust them.

Of course avoid over exertion and too much sun and heat exposure, but, in general, most healthy individuals do not require any special consideration during fasting. Just insure getting enough water, juices and herbal teas during iftar and suhoor and avoid dehydrating drinks like coffee and tea.

Q: Do I have to decrease the food quantities I eat before Ramadan in order not to feel hungry during fasting?

A: I am not sure how much and how frequently you eat now. What I advice is moderation. Eat at regular timing, avoid snacking in between meals and shift to healthy whole food alternatives. This simple change in habits is advisable throughout the year, so it is good to start a practice and try to keep it up.

The most important thing, though, is to focus on quality of food to make sure you get all the required nutrients from your diet. You shouldn’t starve yourself, feel hungry or deprived, if this is the case, this means your body is not getting its full nutritional needs.

- aboutislam.net

About Amira Ayad

Amira Ayad is a natural health consultant and a holistic nutritionist. She holds a Master Degree in Pharmaceutics; and a PhD in natural health. She is a Board Certified Holistic Health practitioner by the American Association of Drugless Practitioners (AADP) and a Registered Orthomolecular Health Practitioner by the International organization of Nutrition Consultants (IONC). She published 2 books: Healing Body & Soul, in 2008; and, The True Secret, in 2011. Amira teaches Biochemistry & Body Metabolism at The Institute of Holistic Nutrition in Toronto, Canada.

Can You Use Toothpaste While Fasting?

 

We have a number of answers on that in the Seekers hub answers. […]

You cannot swallow toothpaste while fasting because swallowing toothpaste or saliva affected by toothpaste would break your fast.

But the use of toothpaste does not in itself invalidate the fast unless you swallow the toothpaste itself or saliva affected by it.

Anything that could reasonably break your fast, deliberately choosing to do so in general is disliked. Because breaking your fast is prohibited.

That which comes close to something, takes something of its rulings.

So deliberately choosing to put anything in your mouth that you could end up swallowing, and thereby invalidating your fast, would be disliked if it’s without reason.

So, toothpaste, in general, will take that ruling as well. After the fast begins, one would avoid it.

But there are circumstances, particularly if someone’s going to work, etc and if your breath is affected, then if you are to use toothpaste and when there’s a need–and it’s disliked–it’s not prohibition. If there’s a need, then just use very little toothpaste and rinse your mouth.

And if you rinse out once you’re considered to have rinsed out the toothpaste any residual taste after that is excused.

So, if there’s no need, you’re just, it’s Saturday, you’re at home, and if you take care of your oral hygiene and you brush before the day starts, it, you should make it to the end of the day.

Don’t have garlic at sahoor time.

The Ruling of Miswak

But and also, it’s useful to learn how to use a tooth stick, sewak, because the tooth stick, right, this sewak or the miswak does not require any external agent in order for you to brush your teeth.

Alright, so if you keep a tooth stick, learn how to use it.

And it’s very useful. You can use it all day. Now you keep it moist so that the ends don’t come off.

But again, you use it once and then you rinse your mouth out once and that that’s enough.

And you can use the tooth stick in the Hanifi school, all day: in the Shafi’i school, only up till the midday. - aboutislam.net

9 Hadiths on How to Deal With Non-Muslims in Your Life

 

Anyone can say or claim anything, be it true or false. What distinguishes the truth from falsehood is one’s practice and deeds. If one’s speech conforms to his/her deeds, one is considered truthful and vice versa. To be truthful, you have to walk the talk!

Anyone can say or claim anything, be it true or false. What distinguishes the truth from falsehood is one’s practice and deeds. If one’s speech conforms to his/her deeds, one is considered truthful and vice versa. To be truthful, you have to walk the talk!

In the case of Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings upon him), it was not him who talked about or described himself. Rather, it was Allah the Almighty Who described him saying:

{And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds} (Al-Anbiya’ 107)

The Prophet’s mercy was not, in any way, restricted to Muslims. It encompassed all, Muslims and non-Muslims, humans and the Jinn, and even animals and non-living things.

He (peace and blessings upon him) even showed mercy to those who wronged him or attempted to kill him.

Below are some prime examples of the mercy shown to his non-Muslim neighbors, relatives, and fellow countrymen.

If you are a new Muslim facing difficulties dealing with your relatives or a young student who has  non-Muslim colleagues or perhaps you are a professional wondering how to interact with your coworkers of different faiths, these hadiths are for you:

Be kind to your non-Muslim relatives

1. Asma’ bint Abu Bakr As-Siddiq (May Allah be pleased with her) said:

“My mother came to me while she was still a polytheist, so I asked the Messenger of Allah, ‘My mother, has come to visit me and she is hoping for (my favor). Shall I maintain good relations with her?’

He (peace and blessings be upon him) replied, ‘Yes, maintain good relations with your mother’” (Al- Bukhari and Muslim).

Is your non-Muslim family hostile? Pray for them

2. Narrated by Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him):

At-Tufail ibn `Amr came to the Prophet and said, ‘The Daws (tribe) have perished as they disobeyed and refused to accept Islam. So invoke Allah against them.’

But the Prophet said, ‘O Allah! Give guidance to the [the tribe of] Daws and bring them [as Muslims]!’” (Al-Bukhari)

Exchanging gifts with non-Muslims

3. Narrated by Ibn `Umar:

`Umar saw a silken cloak for sale draped over a man and requested the Prophet (peace and blessings upon him) to buy it in order to wear it on Fridays and while meeting delegates.

The Prophet (peace and blessings upon him) said, ‘This is worn by the one who will have no share in the Hereafter.’

Later on, Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings upon him) got some silken cloaks similar to that one, and he sent one to `Umar.

`Umar said to the Prophet (peace and blessings upon him), ‘How can I wear it, while you said about it what you said?’

The Prophet (peace and blessings upon him) said, ‘I have not given it to you to wear but to sell or to give to someone else.’

So, `Umar sent it to his brother at Makkah before he embraced Islam” (Al-Bukhari). The Prophet (peace and blessings upon him) did not blame him for his deed.

Receiving gifts from non-Muslims

4. The Prophet (peace and blessings upon him) accepted gifts from non-Muslims too.

Al-Bukhari narrated that a Jewish woman brought him a sheep which was proved later to be poisoned after he ate some of it. The Prophet pardoned her.

However, later on, when Bishr ibn Al-Bara’, who had also eaten from it, died, the Jewish woman was killed for him.

Protect non-Muslims rights

5. A number of the Prophet’s Companions narrated that the Messenger of Allah said:

‘Beware, if anyone wrongs a mu`ahid [i.e. a non-Muslim enjoying the protection of Muslims], or diminishes his right, or forces him to work beyond his capacity, or takes from him anything without his consent, I shall be his adversary on the Day of Judgment” (Abu Dawud).

6. Narrated by `Abdullah ibn `Amr:

The Prophet said, “Whoever killed a mu`ahid  shall not smell the fragrance of Paradise though its fragrance can be smelt at a distance of forty years (of traveling).” (Al-Bukhari).

Visit the sick

7. Narrated by Anas:

“A young Jewish boy used to serve the Prophet and he became sick. So the Prophet went to visit him. He sat near his head and asked him to embrace Islam. The boy looked at his father, who was sitting there. The latter told him to obey the Prophet and the boy embraced Islam.

The Prophet came out saying:

“Praise be to Allah Who saved the boy from the Hell-fire” (Al-Bukhari)

Doing business with non-Muslims? Why not?

8. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to do business and enter into dealings with non-Muslims. It was narrated that `A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said:

“The Messenger of Allah bought some food on credit from a Jew, and he gave him a shield of his as collateral (rahn)” (Al-Bukhari and Muslim).

Respect for deceased persons

9. Jabir ibn Hayyan said:

“The Prophet and his Companions stood up for the funeral of a Jew until it disappeared” (Sunan An-Nasa’i).

A final word

The Prophet (peace and blessings upon him) treated all people well, including non-Muslims. Allah enjoined fairness, kindness, good treatment and rendering back trusts for Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

The Qur’an says:

{Allah does not forbid you from dealing kindly and fairly with those who have neither fought nor driven you out of your homes. Surely Allah loves those who are fair.} (Al-Mumtahanah 60:8)

From this ayah we understand that Muslims should be kind to all peaceful people, Muslims and non-Muslims alike.

As charity begins at home, a Muslim, be it a born Muslim or a new Muslim should deal fairly and nicely with his peers especially when they are family or neighbors.

- aboutislam.net

About Dr. Ali Al-Halawani

Dr. Ali Al-Halawani is Assistant Professor of Linguistics and Translation Studies. He is an author, translator, and writer based in Canada. To date, Al-Halawani authored over 400 original articles on Islam and Muslims, most of which can be accessed on www.aboutislam.net and other famous websites. He has recently started to self-publish his articles and new books, which are available on Amazon and Kindle. You can reach him at alihalawani72@hotmail.com.

Plants in Qur’an: Date Palm

“And tall (and stately) palm-trees, with shoots of fruit-stalks piled one over another” (Surat Qaf 50:10).

From lush tropical rainforests to stark desert lands, from lofty mountain tops to shimmering seashores, we find an array of plants that scientists have estimated to be in the range of 422,000 species.

The astounding diversity of the plant kingdom, which incorporates trees, flowering plants, ferns, mosses, seaweed, and algae, has enthralled botanists for centuries.

This diversity is described in the Qur’an as follows: “And in the earth are neighboring tracts, and gardens of vines, and green crops (fields), and date palms, growing into two or three from a single stem root, or otherwise (one stem root for every palm), watered with the same water; yet some of them We make more excellent than others to eat. Verily! In these things, there are signs for the people who understand.”(Surat Ar-Ra’d 13:3-4).

Plants, the colorful garments of the earth, play a key role in protecting life on this planet. Trees, which cover a third of the earth’s surface, regulate the climate of the earth by absorbing carbon dioxide and releasing oxygen. In addition, plants provide nourishment, medicines, shelter, fuel, and clothing to humankind and animals alike. Plants also fulfill a beautifying and decorative function.

Botanical research by Muslim scholars can be traced back to the second year after Hijrah (7^th Century AD) when a keen interest developed into the medicinal and agricultural aspects of the floral kingdom.

‘Ilm ul-nabaat, the science of plants, encompassed not only scientific studies that classified and described plants, but also contemplated the spiritual and moral lessons drawn from the plant world.

Blessings from Allah

Plants are regarded as one of the countless favors of Allah. As one reads in Surah Ar-Rahman, “So which of the favors of your Lord will you deny?” (Surat Ar-Rahman 55:13).

If humankind attempted to count the blessings of this one favor of Allah, the plant kingdom, it would not be able to fathom the Greatness of the Creator.

“If we would count up the favors of Allah. Never would ye be able to number them. For Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most-Merciful.” (Surat Al-Kahf 16:18).

In this three-part series, we will draw on the work of Dr. Iqtidar Faruqi’s Plants of the Qur’an to discuss three of the plants mentioned in the Qur’an and look at their characteristics, uses and benefits in our lives. The first of these is the date palm.

Date Palm: King of Oasis

The date palm is a tall evergreen and consists of both male and female trees (called dioecious). Only the female trees produce fruit, but one male tree can produce enough pollen to pollinate 40-50 female trees.

At Times of War

Prior to the advent of Islam, date palms, particularly the highly valued male trees, were often cut down and destroyed in battles between tribes. However, this practice was strongly discouraged by the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) and subsequent leaders and viewed as an act of “sacrilege on this earth” (Farooqi, 1997).

During military expeditions, soldiers were instructed not to harm innocent people, nor to cut down any vegetation. However, during the siege of the Banu Nadir tribe in Madinah, Muslims were forced to cut down date palms to “facilitate the movement of the army” (Farooqi, 1997).

The Banu Nadir were angry and wanted to know how the Prophet, “who always forbade corruption and injustice and castigated their perpetrators” (Haykal, 1990), could command the destruction of their orchards. This act greatly saddened the Muslims but was deemed necessary. A verse was revealed at this time that indicated the permissibility of their action in these circumstances.

“And what you (O Muslims) cut down of the palm-trees (of the enemy), or you left them standing on their stems, it was by leave of Allah, and in order that He might disgrace the Fasiqun (the rebellious, disobedient to Allah).” (Surat Al-Hashr 59:5).

Palm Basics

The date palm, which is most commonly unbranched, can grow up to 30 meters. Its 4-5 meter long leaves surround the trunk in a spiral pattern. Branched forms of the date palm also occur (See Surah Ar-Ra’d above).

Date palms produce between five and ten bunches of dates per tree. A single large bunch may contain more than a thousand dates and can weigh between 6 to 8 kg. They begin to bear fruit at 3 to 5 years and reach full production after 10-12 years. Date palms can survive up to 150 years.

Date fruits vary in size, shape, and color. This drupe fruit is characterized by its thin skin, succulent, soft flesh and hard stone or seed in the middle. Unripe dates are green in color, maturing to yellow, then reddish-brown when fully ripe. Each of these states (green to ripe) has been given a particular name in Arabic.

The tree is grown in a nearly rainless belt in the Sahara, as well as in the Middle East in countries such as Saudi Arabia, Jordan, Iran, and Iraq. The variety of dates that are produced amount to 600 according to a report by the Agronomy and Range Science Management Department at the University of California.

In three date-producing countries, Morocco, Tunisia, and Algeria, there is reported to be about 1,000 varieties of dates. Many of these varieties experience neglect and face possible extinction as efforts are concentrated on prized varieties (Campbell).

The date market in the noble city of Madinah, the Souq al-Tumour, sells about 150 varieties, differing in color, shape, taste, and price!

References:

• Agronomy and Range Science Management Department. The crop of the day: The Date, Phoenix dactylifera.
• http://agronomy.ucdavis.edu/gepts/ pb143/CROP/Date/Date.htm
• Al-Shahib, W and Marshall, RJ, 1993. The fruit of the date palm: it’s possible use as the best food for the future? International Journal of Food and Science Nutrition, 54(4): 247-259.
• Campbell, FA, no date. GEF steps in as 1000 date varieties in danger.
• http://www.gefweb.org/Whats_New /Archives/GEF_Steps_in.pdf
• Farooqi, I, 1997. Plants of the Qur’an. Sidrah Publishers: India.
• Haouari, N, Wood, C, Griffiths, G and Levene, M, 1995. The analgesic effect of sucrose in full-term infants: a randomized controlled trial. British Medical Journal 310:1498-1500. (http://www.bmj.com)
• Haykal, MI, 1990. The life of Muhammad. Crescent Publishing Company: India.
• Kasapis, S, no date. Dates: A fruit of promise for the food industry. http://www.nizwa.net/agr/dates/ datefruit/datefruit.html
• Nasr, SH, 1976. Islamic Science: An illustrated guide. World of Islam Festival Publishing Company Ltd.: England.
• Omar-Muhammad, R, 2003. Dates: The crown of sweets. The Muslim Woman, 4(7): 26.
• Relief of Pain: A Medical Discovery. Islamic Voice, 15-04: 172.
• http://www.islamicvoice.com/april.2001/quran.htm

- aboutislam.net

About Najma Mohamed

Najma Mohamed is a freelance environmental researcher and writer residing in Cape Town, South Africa. She completed her M.Sc. in Environmental and Geographical Science at the University of Cape Town and has been involved in both print and broadcast media. She can be reached at najma_mohamed@hotmail.com

There Is Wisdom Behind Life Tests (Quran Reflections)

 

Masjid Al-Hussain, Kuala Perlis, Perlis, Malaysia

Sa`d ibn Abi Waqqas (may Allah be pleased with him) once asked the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him):

“O Messenger of Allah, which people are most severely tested?”

The Prophet (pbuh) replied:

“The Prophets, then the next best and the next best.

A person is tested according to his religious commitment. If he is steadfast in his religious commitment, he will be tested more severely, and if he is frail in his religious commitment, his test will be according to his commitment.

Trials will continue to afflict a person until they leave him walking on the earth with no sin on him.” (Ibn Majah)

Tests Are Inevitable

This life is nothing but a test; each and every situation we go through is part of this test. This test reveals our level of faith and commitment; it also purifies us from our sins as explained by the Prophet in the above hadith.

We read in the Quran what means:

{Do people think once they say, “We believe,” that they will be left without being put to the test? We certainly tested those before them. And ˹in this way˺ Allah will clearly distinguish between those who are truthful and those who are liars.} (Al-`Ankabut 29:2-3)

Here are some inspiring reflections about these verses, collected from QuranReflect.com

Sajid

The imam recited these verses for fajr today, there was something about his recitation, in a spaced out masjid. Still missing some of the familiar faces that use to come before Covid that caused me to reflect.

We all know that were gonna be tested, yet when it comes, we’re always unprepared.
We all know we’re going to die one day, yet when it comes, we’re always unprepared.
There’s something about us, that even after knowing. We don’t know anything.
We keep forgetting as our name Insaan implies.

Everyone has their unique test, and sometimes while reading reflections we can notice the trials that others are facing, but we can also learn how others are clinging on to some verses or passages to help them with their trials.

Sometimes our reflections save others that are suffering silently.
So the reflection here is not really profound, but just a question.
Imagine yourself in Jannah, The Prophet pbuh asks you, “and what was the trial that your Lord tested you with?”

Khalil Ismail

Faith. Imaan is truly something special.
It’s not inherited like our genetic makeup…and it’s not something you simply just have.
Imaan is a gift from Allah swt, a truly special gift that we must guard, nurture, and keep kindled.

And though Imaan is natural, it requires that we put in work to keep it alive.
As we move through this dunya, and gather our life experiences, how we build and structure those pieces often shape our experience of Imaan. How we use the guidance that Allah swt gives us, determines the value of our Imaan…and how long we can make it last.

Allah swt asks us in the second ayah from surat al-ankaboot:
اَحَسِبَ النَّاسُ اَنۡ يُّتۡرَكُوۡۤا اَنۡ يَّقُوۡلُوۡۤا اٰمَنَّا وَهُمۡ لَا يُفۡتَـنُوۡنَ‏
“Do the people think that they will be left to say, “We believe” and they will not be tested?“

Allah promises us that he will test us…If we are to call ourselves believers, then we guarantee a test from our creator!

And subhanAllah sometimes these tests are difficult. And we know that Al-Rahmaan reminds us in Surat Al-Baqarah:
لَا يُكَلِّفُ اللَّهُ نَفْسًا إِلَّا وُسْعَهَا
“Allah will not burden a soul with more than what they can handle” (2:286)

Think about the last time you felt your faith was weak that you’ve perhaps given up hope. That feeling of despair, not being able to see. Missing the light of Iman, is in and of itself a test from Allah.

How beautiful is it that our Creator gives us the answer to rekindling our Imaan, and seeking help:
وَاسْتَعِينُوا بِالصَّبْرِ وَالصَّلَاةِ وَإِنَّهَا لَكَبِيرَةٌ إِلَّا عَلَى الْخَاشِعِينَ
“And seek help through patience and prayer, and this indeed, is a hard thing for all but the humble in spirit.” (2:45)

Faith is not static…when we need Allah the most , we often feel the strong unwavering warmth of Imaan…but at other times it dims and flickers. Perhaps a test from Allah is an opportunity to humble ourselves to Him…and a chance for us to rekindle our taqwa of Him.

O Allah, replace our fears with your Remembrance.
O Allalh, replace our doubts, with seeking your forgiveness.
O Allah, allow us to keep the fire of Iman alive in our hearts , till we meet you.. ameen

Maram

Just a lil ago I was reading Surah Al Ankabut then I started with surah Al Rum. I got to the fifth ayah and I just stopped for a second. I starred at these pages and I just thought to my self that each and every ayah got its own story, own events, own people and got its own history.

Like imagine how excited the sahaba and the Prophet pbuh used to be when a new revelation comes down !?

Ya Allah. I really got upset for a lil though. Our attitude in general is not enough; we really have to care more and pay more attention to every word that is sent down by Allah.

Like imagine The words of ALLAH, the One Whom we worship and we fear and we have hope in.

The One we have never seen before and we still fear Him in every lil act that we do.

We have to dig deeper, as deep as we can till the day we die. It’s a big responsibility to have the WORDS OF ALLAH in front of us and we do so lil about it.

Dont look at how old you are right now, its never too late; you are breathing and that’s good enough. Have a good pure intention and start looking for opportunities to get more educated in the book of Allah so you could act upon what you learn and bring the real Barakah to your life ! 🙂

May Allah make us amongst the companions of the Quran, the people who read, reflect over and act upon it Ya rab!

- aboutislam.net

Editor’s Note: Minor editorial modifications have been made in the above posts.

How Can I Make This Ramadan Memorable?

 

To make this Ramadan memorable we really have to work on changing, mending, or developing something about our character.

This will be memorable because we can then always remember that the blessed month of Ramadan was the turning point in our lives.

It was the time when we started purifying our characters, started a new positive habit, or left a negative, harmful one.

Allah Almighty says in the Quran:

{O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may [gain taqwa].} (Quran 2: 183)

Taqwa means to be more God-conscious in a way that leads us to do what He commands and leave what He prohibits.

Self-Purification

Essentially, Allah Almighty wants us to purify ourselves.

He says:

{And [by] the soul and He who proportioned it. And inspired it [with discernment of] its wickedness and its righteousness, He has succeeded, who purifies it. And he has failed, who instills it [with corruption].} (Quran 91:7-10)

The purification of the self is something that we need to constantly be working on.

But Allah has provided us with the month of Ramadan, wherein we have a great opportunity to progress in this regard.

What corrupts the self is essentially desires and inclinations that are harmful or impure, for example, anger, arrogance, ego, stubbornness, pride, jealousy, self-conceit, uncontrolled desires, etc.

In the month of Ramadan, we learn to control our desires.

Allah Almighty gives us the opportunity to control our innate human desires (like hunger, thirst, etc).

Self-Control and Patience

In Ramadan, we may be fasting in a hot weather and we see a glass of cold water right in front of us. And the only reason why we wouldn’t touch it is our God-conscious.

The only reason we refrain or leave something is for the sake of Allah.

We learn self-restraint and patience. We empower our own soul over our basic desires.

Additionally in this month, Allah is helping us by chaining the devils. So the strong whispering of doing evil are paused.

This is all to help us train ourselves to empower our pure self over the physical desires.

What we can learn is that, just like we were able to control ourselves from the necessities of life for a time like eating and drinking, we also can prevent ourselves from impure things that are not necessary to sustain life.

This includes unleashing our anger on someone, remaining in disagreement with someone due to ego, or refusing to follow a command of Allah due to a personal desire.

A Starting Point

So this Ramadan, one way to make it memorable is to make it a starting point to purify our character; give up something wrong that we’re doing, or start practicing something right that is commendable.

We have a month to train ourselves to do that, while every good deed is multiplied and the evil whispers are distant.

At the end of Ramadan, we are meant to give out zakat (obligatory charity) which is a purification of our wealth, but this is one reflection of the tazkiyya (purification of the self) that we ought to work on throughout the month.

Purification of the self means to have more faith in Allah and more love towards Him that we give up something bad or harmful and control any unhealthy desires for His Sake and for His reward.

Just like we can give up some money for His sake to benefit others, we also give up wrongdoings for His Sake and to bring more peace to ourselves and others.

Quran is the Best Guide

The Quran that Allah Almighty has revealed in this month is the best source of self-purification and guidance in this life and the next.

In Ramadan, we’re meant to read the Quran and ponder on its meanings and take it to heart and then reflect this purity in our actions.

The Quran puts matters in perspective and reminds us of the real worth of this mortal, material world, and the value of the unlimited rewards of Allah and His Closeness that are worth patience and efforts.

The Quran clearly shows us the right path and the pure instructions of what is just and fair, what to do in this life and how to handle it properly.

Let this Ramadan be a turning point.

Make a list of things you want to change about your character.

It could be your anger, short temper with siblings or parents, ego, stubbornness, watching/listening to/speaking about immorality, etc.

All of these could be matters to work on in order to purify ourselves and our characters, not solely for Ramadan, but for the rest of the year so that we would truly be people of taqwa who are conscious of God and in good, pure service to Him.

- aboutislam.net

About Dina Mohamed Basiony

Dina Mohamed Basiony is a writer based in Cairo, Egypt. She specializes in Islam and spirituality. Dina holds an MA and BA in Journalism and Mass Communication from the American University in Cairo.

8 Attempts on the Life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)

 

Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) faced countless attempts to silence him.

Enemies of Islam –be they polytheists, disbelievers, hypocrites– defied the final message and wanted to uproot the Muslim faith and nip it in the bud by putting an end to his life.

They left no stone unturned in their endeavor to confront the Prophet and prevent him from delivering his message to all.

They hurt him and tortured his companions.

Moreover, they mocked, belied and made fun of him; circulated misconceptions about Islam and accused the Qur’an of containing legends and to be made of poetry.

They boycotted and economically besieged Muslims; tempted the Prophet to forsake his mission, and asked him for a number of miracles such as splitting of the moon.

When none of these worked, they decided to assassinate him.

Below is a brief account of 8 assassination attempts on the life of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH). 

1. Abu Jahl and the camel with fearful canines

When Quraish failed to convince the Prophet to quit his mission, Abu Jahl told them he had a plan. He would carry a big stone, wait for the Prophet to start performing his prayer at the Ka`bah, and then smash his head with the stone while prostrating himself in prayers (sujud).

The  Quraish agreed to the plan and vowed to protect Abu Jahl against all possible consequences.

So, Abu Jahl did as he said; however, he was seen retreating with fear and terror on his face while throwing the stone away.

When asked, he said: “When I approached, a male-camel unusual in figure with fearful canines intercepted and almost devoured me.”

The Prophet was reported to have said, “It was Gabriel, if Abu Jahl had approached closer, he would have killed him.” 

2. The assassination squad

Following the migration of the Prophet’s Companions to Madinah, the leaders of Makkah gathered to see what to do with the Prophet who was almost alone at that time. They were afraid that he would catch up with his companions, gather a huge army, and then come back to overtake them all.

Therefore, they agreed to carry out Abu Jahl’s suggestion that “a band of young men, one from each tribe, should strike Muhammad simultaneously with their swords so that the blood-money would be spread over them all and therefore could not be exacted, and his people would seek a mind-based recourse for settlement” (Ar-Raheeq Al-Makhtum).

However, Allah saved the Prophet from their bloody hands and he managed to get to Madinah. 

3. Suraqah ibn Malik and the horse

After the Prophet managed to leave Makkah, Quraish announced a huge prize for anyone who could capture him.

Suraqah went after the Prophet on his way to Madinah. He actually caught up with him at one point but his horse kept stumbling and he had fallen off.

When Abu Bakr Al-Siddiq spotted Suraqah, he said, “O Messenger of Allah, this one has caught up with us.’

The Prophet replied: ‘Don’t be cast down, verily, Allah is with us.’”

Realizing he was unable to hurt the Prophet, Suraqah begged for his forgiveness. He was granted forgiveness and the Prophet confirmed it with a token written by `Amir ibn Fuhairah.

4. The volunteer assassin

One time, the Prophet had set out with some of his Companions to see the Banu An-Nadeer tribe. He was seeking their help in raising the blood-money for two men killed by mistake.

Banu An-Nadeer agreed but asked him and his Companions to sit next to one of their houses and wait. The Jews held a short private meeting and conspired to kill the Prophet.

`Amr ibn Jahsh volunteered to climb up the wall and drop a large stone on his head.

But Gabriel came down to reveal to the Prophet their wicked criminal intention. So he hurried off back to Madinah and his Companions followed him. (Adapted from The Sealed Nectar) 

5. The secret deal

Following the polytheists’ defeat at Badr, the Makkans were overtaken with rage over their horrible loss. Two of their heroes, `Umair ibn Wahab Al-Jumahi and Safwan ibn Umaiyah agreed that the former would murder the Prophet while the latter would discharge the former’s debts and support his family.

`Umair went to Madinah and met with the Prophet. Though he did not utter a word of his wicked intention, the Prophet revealed to him his secret mission.

`Umair was taken by surprise, and immediately took the shahadah.

The Prophet was pleased and asked his Companions to teach `Umair the principles of Islam, the Qur’an and release his son from captivity. 

6. A poisoned sheep

After the defeat of Khaibar, a Jewish woman named Zainab bint Al-Harith offered the Prophet a roasted sheep she had poisoned. He took a mouthful but did not like it.

After investigating the issue, the woman confessed her crime. The Prophet forgave her treacherous attempt. 

7. A hypocrite turns into a faithful believer

Fudalah ibn `Umair was a hypocrite who attempted to assassinate the Prophet while around the Ka`bah. To his surprise, the Prophet told him about what he already planned, and put his noble hand on Fudalah’s chest above his heart in a way to calm him down.

Suddenly, the terrible hypocrite repented to Allah and turned into a faithful devout believer. 

8. Who will save you from me now?

On their way back from the Battle of Dhat Ar-Riqaa`, the Prophet had a short nap after he had hung his sword on a tree. A polytheist (said to be Ghawrath ibn Al-Harith) came and seized the Prophet’s sword. The Prophet woke up to find his sword drawn in the man’s hand.

The Bedouin asked the Prophet (unarmed then): “Who will save you from me now?” The Prophet answered: “It is Allah.”

Suddenly, the man dropped the sword. The Prophet took it up and repeated the same question that the man had asked him moments before: “Who will save you from me now?”

Eventually, the Prophet pardoned him and let him go back to his people safe. 

Moral lessons

Two main lessons can be learned from these attempts and the Prophet’s reactions to them.

First, the Prophet’s noble manners as were manifested in his mercy and forgiveness for those who attempted to kill him. Really he was sent as “mercy to all mankind.”

Secondly, a message to the Muslim ummah that Muslims should not despair or be sad as Allah is with them against all odds. The One Who protected His Messenger from being murdered is the One Who preserved His Message from alteration and would prevent the Prophet’s ummah of being uprooted until the end of days.

- aboutislam.net

About Dr. Ali Al-Halawani

Dr. Ali Al-Halawani is Assistant Professor of Linguistics and Translation Studies. He is an author, translator, and writer based in Canada. To date, Al-Halawani authored over 400 original articles on Islam and Muslims, most of which can be accessed on www.aboutislam.net and other famous websites. He has recently started to self-publish his articles and new books, which are available on Amazon and Kindle. You can reach him at alihalawani72@hotmail.com.