4 Tips for Stronger Family Ties

 

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) often spoke about the family unit being the tell-tale cornerstone of a thriving community.

The Prophet was always kind to his family members, he joked often with them, spent recreational time with them and always advised them to enjoin good and ward off evil.

He reminded them often that he cared for them very much and loved them dearly, invoking Allah to bless his family as much as Allah had blessed him.

He often bought gifts for them, was just in distributing presents, and even visited family members of his deceased wife, Khadijah, indicating that he maintained good relationships with her family and friends even after her passing.

Muslims are often reminded that family relations are just one of the many blessings that humans are allowed and encouraged to enjoy on Earth, illustrating the importance of good family relations as a glimpse of heaven. In fact, it is said that a loving home is like heaven on Earth.

However, in today’s modern society, with time constraints and stress, among other challenges, good family relations tend to fall apart, leaving the Muslim family in shambles and the obstacles to building a strong nation even more challenging than before.

Many modern families consist of two working parents, leaving very little time for the family to recuperate from long hours away from each other – not only for the sake of the children, but also for the respective parents themselves.

In some cases, families are divided geographically, with children studying or working abroad, depending on the circumstances. This can cause family relations to become even more strained and good family relations difficult to achieve.

Make an Effort to Spend Quality Time as a Family

For busy families that are often apart for long hours of the day, making an extra effort to spend quality time together is important.

Ideally, this should be done daily, especially if children are still young and live with and depend on their parents for recognition, praise and a sense of belonging.

Enjoying dinner together is a simple way to spend quality family time, bearing in mind that parents should get rid of their stress and worries and other negative emotions before the dining session while communicating to their children. This also shows that they appreciate the presence of their children after a hectic day at work.

Sharing positive stories is a good way to strengthen family relations. If a member of the family is facing a problem, whether at school or at work, then it can also be shared.

A golden rule is that everyone positively pitches in with constructive solutions to help resolve the challenge. This makes family time a “safe” time, providing a secure venue for family members to voice their concerns, knowing that they are within a circle of support.

Of course if there are pressing issues at hand, it is important for family members to be transparent with each other in order to build trust and respect.

If dinner time is not the most appropriate time to discuss such matters, then family members should not be afraid to request for some quiet, together time to discuss such issues. Other members of the family should hold this request with respect and honor the time spent to help resolve any problems.

This type of quality time slots help strengthen family bonds, and build a strong focus on the home as a safe environment, full of trust and respect. A strong family is one that communicates well, does not judge, or make assumptions about the well-being of the other family members.

Spend Time Engaging in Activities of Interests

People are often happier when they are able to be engaged in activities that spur their interest. As long as such activities do not contradict Islam, family members should find activities of mutual interests to cultivate a strong relationship with each other.

This invitation can and should also involve other family members, such as grandparents, uncles, aunts and cousins. This way, individuals are able to enjoy what they do best, in the company of those who care about them the most.

Activities can range from attending religious classes, participating in charity runs, doing volunteer work, library visits, enjoying sporting events…. The list is endless, and as long as there is mutual respect and interest, these types of rendez-vous will help strengthen the understanding between family members and act as strong mutual grounds for a robust family unit.

Making arrangements for social gatherings is another way to strengthen family ties. Whether it is a weekly get-together at the park or a monthly barbecue it is a great way to meet up with family members and catch up with each other; and also allows individuals to release stress and recount the most important blessings that God has bestowed upon them.

Use Technology to Your Advantage

For families that are divided geographically, Facebook, Skype, e-mail and blogs are just a few ways to keep in touch – this type of communication is seamless, borderless and easy to use. It is also not time-consuming at all.

There are advantages and disadvantages of using technology, but in the instance, the good outweighs the bad, and long-distance family members will be able to keep in touch and up to date with the happenings of their loved ones across the world.

Bear in mind, however, some platforms are launched publicly, and it is still important to respect privacy between family members. Thus, it pays to be vigilant when using certain applications to keep in touch. Even with a geographical divide, it is important to maintain mutual respect and trust between family members.

Obviously, not everyone is privy to such technological advancements, and in this case, there is nothing like rekindling traditional values through traditional means of communication such as letter-writing, and of course, planning scheduled visits way ahead of time.

Strengthen Your Relationship with God

Sometimes family relationships can become strained due to disagreements, misunderstandings or arguments. It is important to resolve these issues.

The first step is to turn to God for guidance. If a person continuously submits to God and invokes His mercy, he or she will have his or her heart filled with mercy, peace and patience in dealing with problems – even family problems.

The next step is to forgive, apologize and move on. Anger, jealousy and general misunderstanding do not come from good sources; thus it is useless to build a relationship based on these acts. Even in the worse sort of misunderstanding, Muslims need to peruse a certain level of civility between each other, especially with family members, and to maintain mutual respect for each other, no matter how different opinions are.

God can help facilitate this, and, as a family, it is even better to seek God’s forgiveness and guidance collectively.

Praying together and for each other, or performing good deeds together is a good way to continuously strengthen one’s relationship with his lord, which will eventually have bountiful spill-over effects upon the unit of such a person’s family.

Family unity represents the cornerstone of a thriving Muslim community. Muslims need to concentrate on building healthy family ties within their single unit, extending the same to their larger web of family members; this, in turn, solidifies the grounds of the nation and its future.

Keeping good company, including supportive family members is just one of the many intangible blessings that God has bestowed upon believers, and the best way to show gratitude is love and cherish the same people in the same family unit.

(Last Published: December 2016)

About Maria Zain

Maria Zain AboutIslam.net author who passed away in December 2014.

-aboutislam.net

What Are the Rulings and Etiquettes of Eid?

 

Surau Al Hidayah Krts Guru Kg. Jawa at Klang, Selangor, Malaysia

Eid, in Islam, is a day of joy, thanksgiving, worship, brotherhood, solidarity, and morality. A Muslim should take the advantage of this day to bring himself nearer to Allah, Most High.

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said, “Every nation has its festival, and this is your festival.” Here, he referred to the fact that these two Eids are exclusively for the Muslims.

The Muslims have no festivals apart from Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha Anas ibn Malik (may Allah be pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allah came to Madinah, the people of Madinah used to have two festivals.

On those two days, they had carnivals and festivity. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) asked the Ansar (the Muslims of Madinah) about it.

They replied that before Islam, they used to have carnivals on those two joyous days. The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) told them, “Instead of those two days, Allah has appointed two other days which are better, the days of Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha.” (Abu Dawud)

These two Eids are among the signs of Allah, to which we must show consideration and understand their objectives. Below, we will elaborate the rulings and etiquette of Eid.

Rulings of Eid

1- Fasting: It is haram to fast on the days of Eid because of the hadith of Abu Sa`id Al-Khudri (may Allah be pleased with him) in which he said that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) forbade fasting on the day of Fitr and the day of Adha. (Muslim)

2- Offering Eid Prayers: Some of the scholars say that Eid Prayers are obligatory – this is the view of the Hanafi scholars and of Ibn Taymiyyah. Some scholars say that Eid Prayer is Fard Kifayah (a communal duty, binding on the Muslims as a group, and it is fulfilled if a sufficient number of people perform it, thereby absolving the rest of sin). This is the view of the Hanbalis. A third group says that Eid Prayer is Sunnah Mu’akkadah (confirmed sunnah). This is the view of the Malikis and Shafi`is.

3- Offering Supererogatory Prayers: There are no Supererogatory Prayers to be offered either before or after the Eid Prayer, as Ibn `Abbas reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to come out on the day of Eid and pray two rak`ahs, with nothing before or after them. This is the case if the Prayer is offered in an open area. If, however, the people pray the Eid Prayer in a mosque, then they should pray two rak`ahs for Tahiyat Al-Masjid.

4- Women attending the Eid Prayers: According to the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him), everyone is urged to attend Eid Prayer, and to co-operate with one another in righteousness and piety. The menstruating woman should not forsake the remembrance of Allah or places of goodness such as gatherings for the purpose of seeking knowledge and remembering Allah – apart from mosques. Women, undoubtedly, should not go out without the Hijab.

Etiquettes of Eid

1- Ghusl (taking a bath): One of the good manners of Eid is to take a bath before going out to the Prayer. It was reported that Sa`id ibn Jubayr said: “Three things are Sunnah on Eid: to walk (to the prayer-place), to take a bath, and to eat before coming out (if it’s Eid al-Fitr).”

2- Eating before coming out: One should not come out to the prayer-place on Eid al-Fitr before eating some dates, because of the hadith narrated by Al-Bukhari from Anas ibn Malik who said: “The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) would not go out in the morning of Eid al-Fitr until he had eaten some dates… and he would eat an odd number.” On Eid al-Adha, on the other hand, it is recommended not to eat until after the Prayer, when one should eat from the meat of one’s sacrifice.

3- Takbir on the day of Eid: This is one of the greatest Sunnahs of this day. Al-Daraqutni and others reported that when Ibn `Umar came out on Eid al-Fitr and Eid al-Adha, he would strive hard in making Takbir until he reached the prayer-place, then he would continue making Takbir until the Imam came.

4- Congratulating one another: People may exchange congratulations and good greetings on Eid, no matter what form the words take. For example, they may say to one another, “Taqabbal Allahu minnaa wa minkum (May Allah accept, from us and from you, our good deeds!)”.

Jubayr ibn Nufayr said: “At the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) when people met one another on the day of Eid, they would say, ‘Taqabbal Allahu minnaa wa minka.’” (Ibn Hajar)

5- Wearing one’s best clothes for Eid: Jabir (may Allah be pleased with him) said: “The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) had a Jubbah (cloak) that he would wear on Eid and on Fridays.” Al-Bayhaqi reported that Ibn `Umar used to wear his best clothes on Eid, so men should wear the best clothes they have when they go out for Eid.

6- Changing route on returning from Prayer-place: Jabir ibn `Abdullah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) used to change his routes on the day of Eid. (Al-Bukhari)

Allah Almighty knows best.

Editor’s note: This fatwa is from Ask the Scholar’s archive and was originally published at an earlier date.

Source: Excerpted, with slight modifications, from, www.islamqa.info

About Sheikh Muhammad Saleh Al-Munajjid

ًA well-known Saudi lecturer and author

Don’t Forget This Manner on ‘Eid Al-Adha

 

One thing didn’t happen last ‘Eid Al-Adha that I hope I don’t forget to do again this year. It’s the most basic of Islamic manners and was lost on all of us.

A European ‘Eid 

In a small Swedish city called Linköping, I was listening to last year’s ‘Eid khutbah in Arabic. Like many non-Arabic-speaking Muslims, I don’t have Arabic as my first language.

I grew up in an Arabic-speaking country, but my Arabic is still rusty and limited. I use a bilingual Qur’an to understand most of the text, but some I can translate off the top of my head.

There were several gaps in my understanding of the khutbah by our local Moroccan imam. 

I am not so familiar with the Moroccan accent, intonation, and vocabulary.

I was sitting by myself in a packed hall of worshippers from several nationalities and language communities.

The prayers take place in a sports hall of the university, as the smaller mosques in our city do not have enough space.

Everyone sits in an undivided, big hall where we can clearly see the imam from the women’s side.

Eid, as usual, is the day of rejoicing, and in that celebratory vibe, I notice many people wearing their traditional dresse;, some are sitting in groups of friends, most often of one language and ethnicity.

Before the ‘Eid khutbah, the imam addresses the congregation in Swedish, the lingua franca of the Muslim community here. 

What is the language of Muslims?

The second-generation Muslims who are either born or grow up in Sweden communicate in Swedish in their schools, playgrounds, and all other places, including the mosque.

Some recent migrants can use only their ethnic languages; other bilingual and educated migrants can use only English as a lingua franca without being able to use or speak Swedish or Arabic.  

The imam was changing his intonation as he came towards the end of his khutbah and began making du’a.

Those people who understand Arabic raised their hands; others copied them; and yet some others just remembered the intonation and the words “Ya Rabb“.

As soon as the du’a is over, and the prayers start, all the mumbling in Somali, Swedish, Arabic, Urdu, Bengali, and so on ends.

Everyone enters prayer mode with just one language, Arabic, whether they understand it or not.

The end of the prayer and the beginning of what?

The ‘Eid Prayer leader was followed meticulously in actions and words—not a different word, not a different step—until the imam turned his head to the right and then to the left.

He says aloud in a rhythm “Assalamo Alikum Wa Rehmat Ullah” turning his head to the right and then repeating again “Assalamo Alikum Wa Rehmat Ullah“.

People stood up and began hugging each other. 

I was sitting in the middle. People of one language group were on my right, and people of another language group were on my left.

The left ones hugged each other, and the right ones hugged each other. I sat there quietly, trying to push a smile onto my face as I stood up. I looked to the person on my left, with whom just minutes ago we were trying to keep our feet together in a safe blockade against Shaytan.

We were so close that I could smell the dark henna in her hands when she raised them following the imam’s calls of “Allah u Akbar“.

When she finally turned her head towards the right shoulder and said, ”Assalamo alikum Wa Rehmat Ullah,” I could feel her breath on my neck.

We were so closely following the steps of our ‘Eid rituals, almost like kids when they play a game together. 

What did the students already forget?

The ‘Eid Prayer almost felt like following the actions of the teacher when you are acting out the nursery rhymes in kindergarten.

We were all facing the Kabah, standing in unison in front of one God—the most beneficent and the most merciful.

What happened after the ritual of the prayers is beyond my understanding.

Shouldn’t such a powerful congregation in unison have some sort of effect on our manners and social interaction? 

I stood there looking at the people’s faces who came from all social classes: educated, not-so-educated, young, old, locals, immigrants, rich, poor, and different ethnicities.

The power and richness of the crowd were overwhelming, but there was something missing too.

As soon as the salah rituals ended, the division of the groups based on languages was somewhat understandable, but people could have easily been inclusive by smiling, greeting, and hugging each other.

We did not even exchange more than the simplest salams, if that.

What I wonder is, are we alone in this misstep? Do you hug and greet people you do not know in your ‘Eid congregations?

From the archives.

About Alia Amir

Alia Amir is a social interaction researcher with a specialization in language policy and classroom interaction. In her academic publications, she has written about conversation analysis, code-switching, English language policy, language policing, and language policing and its effects on language classrooms.She lives in Stockholm with a spirit of Robinson Crusuoe discovering its natural beauty spread on several islands. She writes about her travels and about her experiences as a Kashmiri migrant who has lived in a couple of countries.

- aboutislam.net

Day of Arafah: Fast Makkah Time or My Local Time?

 

It is highly recommended for those outside the Hajj to fast the Day of Arafah. The day of Arafah is the day when the pilgrims perform the rite of wuquf (staying) in the plains of Arafat Mountain. In the past, people did not have the comfort of knowing the day of Arafah in advance.

Nowadays, however, they know it and even watch it as it unfolds from their own living rooms on Televisions or the Internet.

So, it is only common sense that we fast the same day as the day of wuquf (i.e. when they perform the ritual of standing on Arafat).

Allah Almighty knows best.

Editor’s note: This fatwa is from Ask the Scholar’s archive and was originally published at an earlier date.

About Sheikh Ahmad Kutty

Sheikh Ahmad Kutty is a Senior Lecturer and an Islamic Scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada

-  aboutislam.net

Losing Someone: How to Deal With Grief?

Experiencing the loss of a loved one can be extremely painful. experience. However, it’s important to remember that Allah (SWT) is the ultimate provider of life and has complete control over everything. In this regard, Mufti Menk offers valuable insights on how to cope with the loss of a loved one!

- aboutislam.net

Udhiya/Qurbani: Juristic Rulings & Ethics

 

The Udhiya/Qurbani is a widely observed annual tradition done by Muslims worldwide, which was also done by the Prophet (SAW). But, what is the juristic ruling on the practice of Udhiya/Qurbani? Is it obligatory or not? And what are the specific demands or things Muslim should observe while offering Udhiyyah? Click to find out, as Dr. Yasir Qadhi gives a clear and detailed response!

- aboutislam.net

CHAPTER 20, TA-HA (TA-HA)

 

Verses 1-8 The mission of the Quran and the attributes of the One Who sent it

God informs Prophet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, that He did not send down the Quran to cause distress to him, but as a reminder for those who hold God in awe, a revelation from the One who created the earth and the heaven, the Lord of Mercy who is above the Throne.  Everything in the heavens and on earth and between them belongs to Him.  He knows what people keep hidden.

Verses 9-99 Story of Prophet Moses

What follows next is the most vividly described story of Musa.  He is the prophet whom God has talked of the most in the Quran and narrated the events of his life from different angles so that his personality emerges in a different perspective every time.  Reference is made of the journey of Moses and his family from Madyan to Egypt.  When he goes towards the light he hears the voice of God calling him.  Moses holds a conversation with his Lord at the Holy valley.  God tells him to establish prayer for His remembrance, then gives him two miracles.  One, that his staff will turn into a serpent when he throws it on the ground; and second, that when he presses his right hand to his left side, it will come forth white and shining.  After this God tells him about the mission he has been chosen for: call Pharaoh to the path of God.  Moses prays to God for support and for his brother to assist him.  God accepts his prayers and grants him his wish and reminds him of the blessings that were bestowed on him since his birth, when the Pharaoh of that time was killing the sons of all the Israelites.  God further reminds Moses how He had made him go through the various twists and turns of his life before coming finally to this awesome moment when he was being chosen as a Prophet. 

When Pharaoh saw the signs of God, he felt threatened and summoned his sorcerers for a duel.  Pharaoh’s sorcerers challenge to Moses, and finally recognize the truth of their Lord.  Then God commanded Moses to take the people of "Bani Israel" out of the slavery of Pharaoh.  But when Moses went to Mount Toor to receive the Torah, his people started worshipping the statue of a calf, being led astray by Samiri.  Moses banished him and burnt the idol.  The purpose of all these stories from the past is that we may learn from it. 

Verses 100-114 The punishment of those who turn away from the Quran and some spectacles from the Day of Resurrection

Whoever turns away from the Quran will bear a terrible heavy burden on the Day of Resurrection.  When the trumpet is sounded and God gathers the sinful, they will murmur to one another that they stayed only ten days on earth, but the more perceptive of them will say that their stay on earth was only a single day.

On that Day God will blast the mountains into dust and leave a flat plain and people will follow the caller from whom there is no escape.  Every voice will be hushed for the Lord of Mercy.  Only whispers will be heard.  On the Day of Judgement, intercession will be useless except from those to whom the Lord grants permission and whose words He approves.  All faces will be humbled before the Living, Ever Watchful One.  Those burdened with evil deeds will despair, but whoever has done righteous deeds and believed need have no fear of injustice or deprivation. 

Verses 115-127 The story of the angels bowing down to the ground before Adam and warning him against Satan

God commanded the angels to bow down before Adam and they did, but Satan refused, so God told Adam that Satan is an enemy to him and his wife and to not let him drive them out of Paradise.  And as long as he stays in Paradise, he will not go hungry, feel naked, be thirsty, or suffer from the heat of the sun.

But Satan whispered to Adam, tempting to lead Adam to "the tree of immortality and an everlasting kingdom." Adam disobeyed his Lord; both he and Eve fell for Satan’s whispers and ate from the tree.  They became conscious of their nakedness and began to cover themselves with leaves.

Later his Lord brought him close, accepted his repentance, and guided him.  God expelled them from Paradise.  God told them that whoever follows His guidance when it comes, will not go astray nor fall into misery, but whoever turns away from it will have a life of great hardship.  God promises to raise the one who turns away as a blind person on the Day of Resurrection.   He will ask God why was He raised blind when he had sight before! God’s response will be that since he ignored God’s revelations when they came to him, it is only fitting that he is ignored on this Day.  This is how God rewards those who go too far and who do not believe in His revelations.  God says that the greatest and most enduring punishment is in the Hereafter.

Verses 128- 129 Taking lessons from previous nations

Do they not draw a lesson from the many generations God destroyed before them, through whose dwelling places they now walk? There truly are signs in this for anyone with understanding! If it were not for a preordained Word from the Lord, they would already have been destroyed.  Their time has been set.

Verses 130-132 Directions to the Prophet

Prophet Muhammad is told to be patient with what they say, and celebrate the praise of his Lord before the rising and setting of the sun, during the night, and at the beginning and end of the day, so that he may find contentment.  He is instructed by God to not gaze longingly at what God has given some of them to enjoy in this present life.  God tests them through this, but the provision of the Lord in the life to come is better and more lasting.   

Prophet Muhammad is told by God to order people to pray and to be steadfast in prayers himself.  God does not ask anyone to give Him provision, He provides for everyone, and the rewards of the Hereafter belong to the devout.

Verses 133-135 The stubbornness of the polytheists and its consequences

The disbelievers ask why does Prophet Muhammad not bring a sign from his Lord? God tells them that they were given clear proof in the earlier scriptures of the coming of Prophet Muhammad.  If God would have destroyed them through punishment before this Messenger came, they would have complained and asked if only God had sent them a messenger, they would have followed His revelations before they suffered humiliation and disgrace! Prophet Muhammad is told to say that we are all waiting, so you carry on waiting; ultimately you will come to learn who has followed the even path, and has been rightly guided. - islamreligion.com

Early Childhood: The Best Period to Build Faith

 

The early years— we do not exaggerate if we say the early moments— of the child’s life are the best and most important periods to build up the aspects of faith in the child and instill the creed of Tawheed (Islamic Monotheism) and knowing Allah, the Almighty, in him. Therefore, the Prophet  instructed Muslims to let the words of the Aathaan (call to prayer) be the first thing heard by the newborn. These words carry the meanings of pure Tawheed, worshipping Allah, The Almighty, Alone and disassociating from any other worshipped deity.

Ibn Al-Qayyim  said,

The first words to be heard by the child are the words of the heavenly call which include the Highness and Majesty of the Lord and the testimony of faith which is the first step to embracing Islam. So, this is considered like teaching the child the slogan of Islam when he comes to life, as if he is asked to pronounce the testimony of faith. It is also possible that the effect of the Aathaan will reach the heart of the child even if he does not realize it. Also, there is another benefit that when the devil— who awaits the birth of the child— hears the words of the Athaan, he runs away. So, he hears words that weaken and enrage him since the first moment of his being attached to the child.

There is another meaning in saying the words of the Aathaan in the ear of the newborn baby that it is a call to Allah, His Religion and worshipping Him that precedes the call of the devil as the pure Fitrah (sound innate predisposition) precedes the changes that the devil makes therein. There are many other rationales.

Due to the importance of this period in the child’s life in terms of learning the bases of faith; the Prophet  ordered Muslims to make “La ilaaha illa Allah (None is truly worthy of worship but Allah)” the first words to be taught to the child. Ibn ‘Abbaas, may Allah be pleased with him, said that the Prophet  said: “Make the first word to be heard by your children to speak: La ilaaha illa Allah (None is truly worthy of worship but Allah).”

The secret behind this injunction is to let the word of Tawheed and the testimony of embracing Islam be the first thing to be heard by the child, the first thing to be uttered and the first words to be taught to him. The Prophet  ordered parents and mentors to teach the children the acts of worship when they are at the age of seven. ‘Amr ibn Al-‘Aas, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Prophet  said: “Command your children to perform prayer when they are seven years old, and beat them for (not offering) it when they are ten; and separate them in beds.”

On basis of this ruling, we draw an analogy to train the child to fast some days if he could bear fasting. This also applies to other acts of worship.

Importance of attaching children to the Noble Quran from a tender age:

This should take place at a very young age once the child starts speaking. This is the golden period for memorization, learning and maximizing the psychological impact of what the child learns and memorizes.

Therefore, the Prophet  advised parents to maintain this. ‘Ali, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Prophet  said: “Train your children to acquire three characteristics: love of your Prophet, love for the Prophet’s household and reciting the Quran; for the bearers of the Quran will be in the shade of the Throne of Allah on the Day when there will be no shade except His, with His Prophets and His chosen ones.” [At-Tabaraani]

The Companions of the Prophet  pursued this path. Sa‘d ibn Abi Waqqaas, may Allah be pleased with him, said: “We used to teach our children the battles of the Messenger of Allah just as we used to teach them the Surahs (Chapters) of the Quran.” Their keenness on teaching their children the Quran came first; they used it as a means to give an indication of their intense interest and care. Al-Ghazaali  advised Muslims — in his book of Ihyaa’ ‘Uloom Ad-Deen — to teach children the Quran, the Hadeeth and the stories of the righteous people. In Al-Muqadimmah, Ibn Khuldoon  stressed the importance of making children learn and memorize the Quran. He pointed out that the Quran is the basis of education because it leads to establishing the sound creed and implanting faith.

The Quran builds up the child’s character:

Teaching the child the Quran effectively helps him build up the components of faith in his personality. It also inculcates supreme values in him and straightforward behavior. It forms his personality and way of thinking in a way that is characterized by purity and originality. It makes him eloquent and a sound-speaking person. It increases his knowledge and strengthens his memory. There is a report enhancing this meaning that states the following, “Whoever recites the Quran while he is a believing youth, the Quran will be mixed with his flesh and blood and Allah, The Almighty, will make him with the noble and dutiful messenger-angels.”

Memorizing, learning and being attached to the Quran make the souls of children at peace, tranquil and connected to the Creator. Hence, they will enjoy the company of Allah, The Almighty, who will guard them from the harm, evil and domination of the devils. Consequently, the Quran will become indeed mixed with their flesh and blood, by virtue of reciting its verses with their parents or teachers.

Accordingly, they would not tolerate abandoning their Mus-haf (Arabic copy of the Quran) or recorded tapes of the Quran. Even at times of illness and fever, their tongues will utter what is instilled in their fresh and hearts including the words of Allah, The Almighty, and their great attachment to it. - islamweb.net

Why Are Makkah and Madinah So Important to Muslims?

 

All Religions Have Holy Places

First, let’s agree that every religion has its special place which it considers as “the cradle”. This is the launching point from which it spread in the world.

For instance, Bethlehem and Nazareth are considered to be very special places for Christians all over the world.

These two great cities have witnessed very special moments in the life of Jesus Christ (peace be upon him), who is also regarded as a great prophet by Muslims.

The followers of the three Abrahamic faiths–Judaism, Christianity, and Islam–all revere Jerusalem.

This city has witnessed very special moments in the lives of the three greatest prophets: Moses, Jesus, and Muhammad (peace be upon them all).

More specifically, The Aqsa Mosque in Jerusalem is considered the third most holy place for Muslims, after the mosques in Makkah and Madinah.

These cities, Makkah and Madinah, are holy places for all Muslims all over the world, and not only Arab Muslims.

Why Makkah and Madinah?

These two holy cities witnessed the very precious early moments of Islam: the birth of Prophet Muhammad, his early days of preaching the message of Islam, the emergence of the Muslim community, the emigration, and the development of the first Islamic state.

Furthermore, they have also witnessed the revelation of the Quran and thus the last connection between the heavens and earth. Because of this, they are very special.

On top of that, Makkah is the center of the three Abrahamic faiths. It contains the Kaabah–the first House built for the worship of Allah.

Prophet Abraham, who is considered to be the father of the three monotheistic religions, re-established it after many years of disrepair.

Makkah stands on its own as the most sacred place in Islam. It is the destination of all Muslims fulfilling the fifth main Islamic pillar: Hajj (pilgrimage).

Almighty Allah says what means:

The first House (of worship) appointed for men was that at Bakka: Full of blessing and of guidance for all kinds of beings. In it are Signs Manifest; (for example), the Station of Abraham; whoever enters it attains security. Pilgrimage thereto is a duty men owe to Allah,- those who can afford the journey; but if any deny faith, Allah stands not in need of any of His creatures. (Quran 3:96-97)

Next to that is Madinah, which hosts the grave of Prophet Muhammad.

Special Rules in These Cities

In addition, these places are given special rulings in Islamic tradition and jurisprudence.

It is a well-established fact that only Muslims are allowed in these two Holy Sanctuaries.

In any other mosque, any non-Muslim is wholeheartedly welcome to visit.

Makkah and Madinah Are Safe-Havens

Moreover, because they are sacred places, all people—and indeed, all living things—should feel safe there.

It is completely prohibited to threaten anyone, including animals, or to cut down trees or plants in these holy places. One of the Prophet’s Companions, Abdullah ibn Zayd ibn Asim, narrated that the Prophet Muhammad said:

Abraham has made Makkah a sanctuary and prayed for its people and I declare Madinah to be a sanctuary in the same manner as Abraham declared Makkah a sanctuary. And I have prayed [to] Allah (i.e. for the people of Madinah) in the same manner as Abraham did for the people of Makkah. (Al-Bukhari)

Muslims believe that Prophet Abraham prayed for Makkah to be a safe place.

This is mentioned in the Quran, as Almighty Allah says what means:

And remember, Abraham said: “My Lord, make this a City of Peace, and feed its people with fruits,-such of them as believe in Allah and the Last Day.” He said: “(Yea), and such as reject Faith–for a while will I grant them their pleasure, but will soon drive them to the torment of Fire, an evil destination (indeed)!” (Quran 2:126)

Almighty Allah also says in the Quran:

Remember Abraham said: “O my Lord! make this city one of peace and security, and preserve me and my sons from worshipping idols.” (Quran 14:35)

Greeting and Sending Farewell to Makkah

From a jurisprudence perspective, a Muslim is recommended to pray two rakahs (Prayer units) known as “the greeting of the mosque”anytime he enters a normal mosque.

The greeting of the holy mosque in Makkah is quite different: one is required to circumambulate the Kaabah as a way of greeting it.

As well, a Muslim is supposed to bid farewell to the Holy Mosque in Makkah in the same manner whenever he or she is leaving the holy city.

In terms of reward, the prayers offered in these two holy mosques (Makkah and Madinah) are rewarded more than any prayer anywhere else in the world.

Millions of Muslims every year flock to Makkah and Madinah to perform the pilgrimage and visit the Prophet’s grave.

They are full of love, passion, and yearning to come again and again to these two pure spots.

(From Ask About Islam archives)

About Sheikh Ahmad Saad

Ahmed Saad is the founding director of Ihsan Institute of Arabic & Islamic Studies-UK. An international speaker and dynamic scholar. (http://www.ihsaninstitute.co.uk )

-aboutislam.net

Are Hajj and Umrah Same Thing or They Are Different?

 

No, Hajj and Umrah are not the same thing; they are two different forms of pilgrimage.

Hajj is usually referred to as the major pilgrimage or the Pilgrimage, and Umrah as the lesser one.

Both Hajj and Umrah consist of a journey to Makkah that involves certain rituals such as ihram, circumambulating the Ka`bah, walking between the hills of Safa and Marwah, and shaving or cutting the hair.

So, What are the differences between Hajj and Umrah?

1. Extra rituals

The rituals mentioned above are the basic rituals of Umrah. Hajj, on the other hand, has these and additional rituals, including spending days and nights in `Arafah, Mina, and Muzdalifah – areas neighboring the city of Makkah.

The rituals of Umrah are limited and can be finished in few hours, that is why it is described as the lesser pilgrimage. Hajj rituals require at least 4 days and 3 nights to complete them.

2. Time frame

Another difference between Hajj and Umrah is related to their time frame. While there is a specific time for Hajj, you can perform Umrah at any time in the year.

3. Ruling

In addition, Hajj and Umrah differ regarding the ruling of each of them.

Hajj is one of the pillars of Islam. Allah says in the Qur’an

{And pilgrimage to the House is a duty unto Allah for mankind, for him who can find a way thither} (Aal `Imran 3:97).

`Abdullah ibn `Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) quoted the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) as saying

“Islam has been built on five [pillars]: testifying that there is no god but Allah that Muhammed is the Messenger of Allah, performing the prayers, paying the zakah, making the pilgrimage to the House, and fasting in Ramadan.”

So Muslim scholars unanimously agree that Hajj is obligatory once in a lifetime for those eligible.

As for Umrah, Muslim scholars disagree whether it is obligatory or merely a recommended Sunnah. However, it is better to perform it in order to be on the safe side.

You can choose the mode of Hajj known as tamatu` in which both Umrah and Hajj are performed. More information on tamatu` and the other modes of Hajj are provided in this article.

About Muhammad Fathi

Muhammad Fathi is the managing editor of the Shari`ah page, AboutIslam.net and a former Imam and teacher at the Quran Institute of America, MI, USA.

- aboutislam.net

Why Islam series

 

Islam and Security

One of the basic needs of man is to feel secure. The feeling of security is a psychological need which has to be satisfied so as to achieve the individual’s harmony and adjustment. As we know, human needs are of two types: physical and psychological. Physical needs include the need for water, food, and shelter. Psychological needs include the need for belonging, security, and affection. If a physical need is not satisfied, this usually causes harm to the body. On the other hand, if a psychological need is not satisfied, this usually leads to psychological disorders, lack of happiness, anxiety, and a variety of maladjustment symptoms.

Internal harmony

Islam emphasizes the moral and ethical aspects, because man needs more than bread to live happily. Man needs internal harmony. Man is body and soul -- not body or soul only. Therefore, man needs what satisfies both his body soul.

Islam provides man with the feeling of security. This feeling of security is built in different ways.

This feeling will remove despair, hopelessness and anxiety, and will make man more hopeful, active, and self-confident.

Allah’s Mercy

Islam instructs the believer that Allah is the Most Merciful. This concept of Allah’s Mercy is essential in Islam. Allah’s Mercy affects the Muslim in two ways: by example and forgiveness. If Allah is the Merciful, man must be merciful. Man must be merciful to other persons of all races and all religions. He must be merciful to animals as well. He must be merciful to women, relatives and strangers, to parents and children, and to all living beings.

This atmosphere of mercy in Islam gives the person a feeling of security for one’s life, honor, rights and property, because mercy is something you give to others and others give it to you.

Allah’s Mercy works in another way, if man sins, he is not driven out of Allah’s blessings forever. In Islam, if you sin, the door of Allah’s forgiveness remains open. If you sin and then sincerely repent, Allah forgives. This formula of Allah’s Mercy and forgiveness keeps the Muslim secure about his relation with Allah and secure about his ethical code and moral future.  

Human Mercy

This concept of Allah’s Mercy and interhuman mercy is emphasized by Islam. When a Muslim eats, he begins by saying: “In the name of Allah, the Most Merciful and the Most Gracious.” When a Muslim reads the Quran or quotes the Quran he starts by mentioning Allah’s Mercy. In prayer, the Muslim mentions Allah’s Mercy a number of times every day.

Thus, the Muslim lives in an atmosphere of mercy, both physically and psychologically. A Muslim is led to feel that God is merciful and that his brethren are merciful. If a person’s relations with Allah and men are controlled by mercy, this will make him feel secure in the present and the future.

Belief in Allah

Believing in Allah gives the believer a sense of security. How can a person feel secure if he does not believe in Allah? Research has shown that mental disorders show up in non-believers more frequently and more severely than in believers. A non-believer is not sure about anything. He is not sure about his beginning, his end, or his goals. A non-believer is not sure about values, ideals, right, wrong, good, or bad. A non-believer is usually a sceptical person, anxious, disordered and hesitant.

On the contrary, a Muslim knows the origin and purpose of his life. He is one hundred percent sure about what is right and what is wrong, what is good and what is bad. A Muslim is certain about himself, his life, the Universe, his social relations, his rights, and his duties. He is sure of his ideals and values.    

Certainty of Values

The Muslim’s certainty about his values and ideals springs from the comprehensive code of ethics given by God to man. When a person has clear values, clear ideals, a clear beginning, and a clear destination, he feels secure, because he know where he is going.

Coming to more specific data, if we look at some non-Islamic communities, we find that there is a high frequency of persons with mental disorders. This is due to the lack of religion in those communities. With no religion, man feels lost, unsupported, and feels that he has no significant purpose. On the other hand, with belief in Allah, man feels secure, because he feels that he is guided and supported by Allah and that he has a significant purpose.

Thus, Islam provides man with the psychological security he needs throughout life, through the mercy and guidance of Allah.

When you know that Allah guides and protects those who believe in Him, you would feel secure. 

By: Dr. Muhammad Ali Al-Khuli

- islamweb.net