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Year: 2024

The blessing of waking up in the morning upon Islam

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Monotheism - Tawheed, Purification of The Soul, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

أَصْبَحْنَا عَلَى فِطْرَةِ الْإِسْلَامِ وَعَلَى كَلِمَةِ الْإِخْلَاصِ، وَعَلَى دِينِ نَبِيِّنَا مُحَمَّدٍ صَلَى اللهُ عَلِيهِ وَسَلَّمَ، وَعَلَى مِلَّةِ أَبِينَا إِبْرَاهِيمَ، حَنِيفَاً مُسْلِماً وَمَا كَانَ مِنَ الْمُشْرِكِينَ

We have reached the morning whilst being upon the Fitrah of Islam; upon the statement of Ikhlas; and upon the religion of our Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and the way of our forefather Ibrahim , who was Haneefan [one who singled out Allah in worship and distanced himself from everything worshipped besides Allah] and Musliman [a true Muslim], and he was not of those who associated partners to Allah [in worship]. NB: In the evening, the phrase [أَصْبَحْنَا  – we have reached the morning] is replaced with [أَمْسَيْنَا – we have reached the evening]

Explanation

[أَصْبَحْنَا عَلَى فِطْرَةِ الإِسْلاَمِ – We have (reached the morning whilst being upon) the Fitrah of Islam]- Meaning: We have been favoured through reaching the morning, whilst we are upon the religion of Islam, adhering and being safeguarded upon it- neither being from those upon something different nor those who substitute their Islam.

The religion of Islam is the religion of Fitrah- [i.e. the religion a person would naturally incline towards because Allah created mankind with the natural disposition to incline towards it], therefore, a person turns towards it wholeheartedly, making it the main goal and adhering to it -outwardly and inwardly- through the deeds and sound creed ordained by Allah. Allah, The Most High, said:

 فَأَقِمۡ وَجۡهَكَ لِلدِّينِ حَنِيفً۬ا‌ۚ فِطۡرَتَ ٱللَّهِ ٱلَّتِى فَطَرَ ٱلنَّاسَ عَلَيۡہَا‌ۚ لَا تَبۡدِيلَ لِخَلۡقِ ٱللَّهِ‌ۚ ذَٲلِكَ ٱلدِّينُ ٱلۡقَيِّمُ وَلَـٰكِنَّ أَڪۡثَرَ ٱلنَّاسِ لَا يَعۡلَمُونَ

So set you [O Muhammad] your face towards the religion of pure Islamic Monotheism Hanifan [worship none but Allah Alone] Allah’s Fitrah [i.e. Allah’s Islamic Monotheism], with which He has created mankind. No change let there be in Khalqillaah [i.e. the Religion of pure Islamic Monotheism], that is the straight religion, but most of men know not].

This is the natural disposition upon which mankind was created, so whoever abandons this state has opposed and corrupted his natural disposition, just as the Messenger said that Allah said: “Indeed, I created My servants as Hunafaa [i.e. one having a natural inclination to worship Allah alone and respond to the call of my Messengers], but it is Satan who turns them away from the right religion and makes unlawful for them what I made lawful for them, and commanded them to ascribe partners to Me that which I have sent down no authority.” [Saheeh Muslim Number 2865]

[وَكَلِمَةِ الإِخْلاَصِ   – (we have reached the morning, whilst being upon) the statement of Ikhlaas]: Meaning: We have reached the morning whilst being upon this pure statement and that is the statement: “There is no deity worthy of worship except Allah”. This great and lofty statement is the best of all great statements and loftiest of them; rather it is main fountainhead of the religion and its foundation. Due to this, mankind was created solely for the purpose of fulfilling what this statement necessitates, and likewise due to this statement the Messengers were sent to mankind, the Books were revealed and the people were divided into believers and disbelievers. It is the essence of the call of the Messengers and the basis of their message. It is the greatest favour that Allah has bestowed on His servants. Sufyaan Bin Uyaynah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “Allah has not bestowed on a servant -amongst His servants -a bounty  greater than the fact He acquainted them with statement [ لا إله إلا الله –  There is no deity worthy of worship except Allaah]

The statement [ لا إله إلا الله –  There is no deity worthy of worship except Allah] is a statement of sincerity -a statement of Islamic Monotheism and rejection of Shirk [i.e. polytheism of all types – in belief, creed, deeds, ideas etc]. Allah, The Most High, said that Prophet Ibrahim, peace be upon him, said to his people:

وَإِذۡ قَالَ إِبۡرَٲهِيمُ لِأَبِيهِ وَقَوۡمِهِۦۤ إِنَّنِى بَرَآءٌ۬ مِّمَّا تَعۡبُدُونَ
لَّا ٱلَّذِى فَطَرَنِى فَإِنَّهُ ۥ سَيَہۡدِينِ
وَجَعَلَهَا كَلِمَةَۢ بَاقِيَةً۬ فِى عَقِبِهِۦ لَعَلَّهُمۡ يَرۡجِعُونَ

And (remember) when Ibrahim (Abraham) said to his father and his people: “Verily, I am innocent of what you worship, “Except Him (i.e. I worship none but Allah Alone) Who did create me, and verily, He will guide me.” And he made it [i.e. La ilaha ill-Allah (none has the right to be worshipped but Allah Alone)] a Word lasting among his offspring (True Monotheism), that they may turn back (i.e. to repent to Allah or receive admonition).

If a servant of Allah wakes up whilst being upon what this statement of sincerity necessitates -neither being from those upon something else nor who substitute it- he has reached the morning whilst being upon a good situation.

[وَعَلَى دِينِ نَبِيِّنَا مُحَمَّدٍ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ – (i.e. and we have reached the morning whilst being) upon the religion of our Prophet Muhammad]- Meaning: We have reached the morning whilst being upon this great religion, which Allah is pleased with for His servants and sent His Prophet with. Allah [The Most High] said:

[ٱلۡيَوۡمَ أَكۡمَلۡتُ لَكُمۡ دِينَكُمۡ وَأَتۡمَمۡتُ عَلَيۡكُمۡ نِعۡمَتِى وَرَضِيتُ لَكُمُ ٱلۡإِسۡلَـٰمَ دِينً۬ا‌ۚ – This day, I have perfected your religion for you, completed My Favour upon you, and have chosen for you Islam as your religion]. Allah said: [إِنَّ ٱلدِّينَ عِندَ ٱللَّهِ ٱلۡإِسۡلَـٰمُ‌ۗ  –  Truly, the religion with Allah is Islam. (3:19)]

Allah said: [وَمَن يَبۡتَغِ غَيۡرَ ٱلۡإِسۡلَـٰمِ دِينً۬ا فَلَن يُقۡبَلَ مِنۡهُ وَهُوَ فِى ٱلۡأَخِرَةِ مِنَ ٱلۡخَـٰسِرِينَ   – And whoever seeks a religion other than Islam, it will never be accepted of him, and in the Hereafter he will be one of the losers. (3:85]

Allah stated about those whom He favoured with this religion:

وَلَـٰكِنَّ ٱللَّهَ حَبَّبَ إِلَيۡكُمُ ٱلۡإِيمَـٰنَ وَزَيَّنَهُ ۥ فِى قُلُوبِكُمۡ وَكَرَّهَ إِلَيۡكُمُ ٱلۡكُفۡرَ وَٱلۡفُسُوقَ وَٱلۡعِصۡيَانَ‌ۚ أُوْلَـٰٓٮِٕكَ هُمُ ٱلرَّٲشِدُونَ

But Allah has endeared the Faith to you and has beautified it in your hearts, and has made disbelief, wickedness and disobedience (to Allah and His Messenger) hateful to you. These! They are the rightly guided ones. [49:7]

Allah said: [وَلَوۡلَا فَضۡلُ ٱللَّهِ عَلَيۡكُمۡ وَرَحۡمَتُهُ ۥ مَا زَكَىٰ مِنكُم مِّنۡ أَحَدٍ أَبَدً۬ا وَلَـٰكِنَّ ٱللَّهَ يُزَكِّى مَن يَشَآءُ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ سَمِيعٌ عَلِيمٌ۬ – And had it not been for the Grace of Allah and His Mercy on you, not one of you would ever have been pure from sins. But Allah purifies (guides to Islam) whom He wills, and Allah is All-Hearer, All-Knower. [24:21]

[وَعَلَى مِلَّةِ أَبِينَا إِبْرَاهِيمَ حَنِيفًا وَمَا كَانَ مِنْ الْمُشْرِكِينَ – and the way of our forefather Ibrahim, who was Haneefan (one who singled out Allah in worship and distanced himself from everything worshipped besides Allah) and Musliman (a true Muslim), and he was not of those who associated partners to Allah (in worship)]- Meaning: We have reached the morning whilst being upon this blessed religion of Ibraaheem, – the friend of the Most Merciful (Allah)- the religion of Monotheism and distanced from polytheism. And indeed Allah commanded His Prophet, peace and blessing of Allah be upon him, to follow the way of Prophet Ibrahim, saying:

[قُلۡ إِنَّنِى هَدَٮٰنِى رَبِّىٓ إِلَىٰ صِرَٲطٍ۬ مُّسۡتَقِيمٍ۬ دِينً۬ا قِيَمً۬ا مِّلَّةَ إِبۡرَٲهِيمَ حَنِيفً۬ا‌ۚ وَمَا كَانَ مِنَ ٱلۡمُشۡرِكِينَ – Say (O Muhammad): “Truly, my Lord has guided me to a Straight Path, a right religion, the religion of Ibrahim (Abraham), Hanifa[i.e. the true Islamic Monotheism – to believe in One God (Allah i.e. to worship none but Allah, Alone)] [6:161]

Allah said: [وَجَـٰهِدُواْ فِى ٱللَّهِ حَقَّ جِهَادِهِۦ‌ۚ هُوَ ٱجۡتَبَٮٰكُمۡ وَمَا جَعَلَ عَلَيۡكُمۡ فِى ٱلدِّينِ مِنۡ حَرَجٍ۬‌ۚ مِّلَّةَ أَبِيكُمۡ إِبۡرَٲهِيمَ‌ۚ – And strive hard in Allah’s Cause as you ought to strive (with sincerity and with all your efforts that His Name should be superior). He has chosen you (to convey His Message of Islamic Monotheism to mankind by inviting them to His religion, Islam), and has not laid upon you in religion any hardship, it is the religion of your father Ibrahim (Abraham) (Islamic Monotheism).

If a servant of Allah wakes up in the morning whilst being upon this blessed religion of Islamic Monotheism, he (or she) is upon a tremendous good and virtue. How beautiful and great that a Muslim begins their morning with these blessed statements.

[An Excerpt from ‘Fiqhul Ad’iyah Wal Adhkar’ pages 3/35-39]

Current Affairs

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Some people say that someone who does not grasp current affairs is not a scholar, yet they forget what the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Whoever Allah wishes good for, He grants them understanding in the religion”. They lose sight of the reality that preoccupying oneself with current affairs distracts a person from understanding the religion and may even keep people from engaging in correct worship, which is to worship Allah alone while devoting one’s heart to Allah, contemplating Allah’s divine revelation (i.e. the Qur’an and the Sunnah) and His universal signs (i.e. the things He has created). In reality, preoccupying the youth with current affairs prevents them from understanding the religion Allah has ordained because the heart is a vessel that does not take another thing when it is filled with something else, thus, it is not possible to fill it with this and that. Being preoccupied with seeking understanding in the religion, fulfilling acts of worship, pure Islamic monotheism, and sincerity are the better to do for the individual than learning about current affairs and what such and such a person is about.

It is possible that one receives knowledge of current affairs through flimsy and fabricated media narrations, or bases knowledge of current affairs on the analysis and speculations of a person. The one engaged in the subject of current affairs may seek to establish an analysis that is far from what the current affairs are or they look into affairs that have been concocted for them by the enemies (regarding) a specific event, but this event turns out to be something else and does not exist at all, thus, all those plans come to naught.

Therefore, it is important that one learns what Islam expects of them- the understanding related to one’s self, rectification of the heart through sound belief and wishing good for the Muslims, and this is related to the understanding of halal, haram, and other affairs of a similar nature. (However), if necessary, one can acquire knowledge about current affairs; but when it comes to matters that haven’t actually happened yet, such as lies, deception, analysis, and speculation, attaching absolute emphasis to it has no foundation. (1)

Analysing The Plots Against Islam Is A Fard Kifaayah to Be Carried Out By The Scholars and Their Outstanding Students

 

Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadee Al-Madkhalee, may Allah preserve him, says:

So it is not permissible for the Ulamaa to remain heedless of their plans (i.e. the enemies of Islaam), their actions, their publications, their missionary activities and their various calls (to the Muslims). And also the various poisons they are infusing – which are in opposition to the Qur’aan and the Messenger (sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) and his Sunnah. And nor of what plans they have for (the destruction of) the beliefs and methodologies of Islaam. It is not permissible either, to remain heedless of their concentrated efforts to Christianize or secularize the Muslim youth. And along with that, the Muslim youth and the students are not able to oppose this plan and strategy. Rather it is necessary that the distinguished Ulamaa – those who are experienced and shrewd – it is for such people, in all the places to undertake this duty. So it is obligatory for some of the intelligent and ingenious people from the field of Aqeedah to be mobilised for opposing these plans. And likewise it is a must that the intelligent and distinguished from amongst the specialists in the Sunnah – that they be mobilised for the refutation of these and similarly the eminent and distinguished from amongst those in the fields of Orientalism for the refutation of the plans of the Orientalists.” (Ahl ul-Hadeeth, p.102)

He also says: “I myself believe that it is a benefit – rather it is of necessity – that we know what the enemies are planning for us, and that it is necessary for us to prepare (ourselves in strength) to destroy their plans. However, I do not exaggerate in this matter, rather my view is the view of our Ulamaa and they have all agreed upon this – that amongst the obligatory matters there are some that are Fard Ain and others that are Fard Kifaayah – and even if knowing the state of the enemies is harmful – it is still necessary for us to know it – but it is treated as Fard Kifaayah. When some attend to it, then the harm is removed from the rest” up until he said: “So I consider that there is no criticism for the Ulamaa and the students of knowledge who take great concern for preserving the Sharee’ah of Allaah – in terms of the Book, the Sunnah and its understanding – for this is one of the duties of the Kifaayah actions. And I believe that these people are more superior, noble, truthful and of more benefit to Islaam than those who are weak in their knowledge of the religion of Allaah or those who have no share in acquainting themselves with it.” (2)

(1) An Excerpt from ‘Sharh Hilyati Taalibil Ilm’ pages 194-195

(2) An excerpt from an article at www.salafipublications.com titled: The Salafis and Looking into the Affairs of the Ummah]

The so-called Awliya who are impervious to pain!

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Contemporary Issues, Deviated Groups, Sects and Parties, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Refutations, Scholars of Islam, Sufis.

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, was asked about a people who hit themselves with metal objects and weapons, and it does not have any effect on them, and they claim that they are Awliyaa of Allah!

The Shaikh responded: Just because these people hit themselves with metal objects or other things and it does not have any effect on them is neither a proof that they are truthful nor that they are Awliyaa of Allah, nor that this is a miracle of theirs; rather this deed of theirs is a type of magic through which they deceive the eyes of the people. Magic  can occur through this and other ways. When the Pharaoh’s magicians threw their ropes and sticks, it appeared as if they moved fast and that they were snakes, just as Allah said: [سَحَرُوٓاْ أَعۡيُنَ ٱلنَّاسِ وَٱسۡتَرۡهَبُوهُمۡ وَجَآءُو بِسِحۡرٍ عَظِيمٍ- They bewitched the eyes of the people, and struck terror into them, and they displayed a great magic]. [Surah Al-A’raaf. Aayah 116]

There is no doubt that what they did was a type of magic and it was not a miracle. Therefore, know – may Allah have mercy upon you – that miracles do not occur except at the hands of Allah’s true Awliyaa – those who truly fear Allah and are steadfast upon the religion ordained by Allah. Allah described them in His statement:

 أَلَآ إِنَّ أَوۡلِيَآءَ ٱللَّهِ لَا خَوۡفٌ عَلَيۡهِمۡ وَلَا هُمۡ يَحۡزَنُونَ

ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ وَڪَانُواْ يَتَّقُونَ

No doubt! Verily, the Awliya’ of Allah [i.e. those who believe in the Oneness of Allah and fear Allah much (abstain from all kinds of sins and evil deeds which he has forbidden), and love Allah much (perform all kinds of good deeds which He has ordained)], no fear shall come upon them nor shall they grieve, – those who believed [in the Oneness of Allah – Islamic Monotheism), and used to fear Allah much (by abstaining from evil deeds and sins and by doing righteous deeds]. [Yunus. 62-63]

Therefore, not everyone who claims to be a Waliy of Allah is truly a Waliy of Allah, otherwise everyone would make such a claim; rather a claimant is judged by his deeds. If his deeds are based on Iman and piety, he is a Waliy. Merely claiming that he is a Waliy is something that cannot be attributed to true fear of Allah because indeed Allah, The Most High, Said: [ فَلَا تُزَكُّوٓاْ أَنفُسَكُمۡ‌ۖ هُوَ أَعۡلَمُ بِمَنِ ٱتَّقَىٰ  – So ascribe not purity to yourselves. He (Allah) knows best him who fears Allah and keep his duty to Him]. [An-Najm. 32]

If a person claims that he is a Waliy, he has praised himself and fallen into an act of disobedience to Allah, and this is in opposition to piety. Due to this,  the true Awliyaa of Allah do not praise themselves, rather they believe in Allah, fear Allah and obey Allah in a perfect manner. Neither do they beguile nor deceive the people with the likes of these claims and thus misguide them from the path of Allah.

An Excerpt from “Fataawaa Fadeelah Ash-Shaikh Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen Fil Aqeedah. 2/855-856

Yusuf, Allah’s prophet, son of Allah’s prophet, son of Allah’s prophet, son of Allah’s friend

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Uncategorized, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him narrated that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, was asked, “Who is the most honourable amongst the people?” He said, “The one who fears Allah the most”. They said, “We are not asking you about this”. He said, “Then the most honourable amongst the people is Yusuf, Allah’s prophet, the son of Allah’s prophet, the son of Allah’s prophet, the son of Allah’s friend (i.e. Prophet Ibrahim)”. They said, “We are not asking you about this”. He said, “So you are asking me about the Arabs’ descent; the people are of different descents and those who were best in the pre-Islamic period are the best in Islam, if they acquire (sound) understanding of (religion)”.

Al-Allamah Zayd Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercy upon, said:

In this hadith, it is legislated for the one to whom something related to the religion is hidden that he asks, and the scholar is the one who is asked. The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, is the foremost teacher and the one who conveys the religion (ordained) by Allah. His companions used to ask him about that which they wanted to understand in order to act upon it. This hadith is proof that the companions of the prophet asked about matters related to their religion in order to acquire understanding of the religion. Knowledge- as it is said – is based on questions and answers. In this hadith, there is proof of the virtue of piety, just as Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, said:

إِنَّ أَڪۡرَمَكُمۡ عِندَ ٱللَّهِ أَتۡقَٮٰكُمۡ‌ۚ

“The most honourable of you in the sight of Allah are those who fear Allah the most”.

Piety gathers every good because it is clearly manifested by fulfilling commands, keeping away from prohibitions, declaring lawful what is lawful and declaring unlawful what is unlawful – inwardly (in one’s heart) and apparent (on one’s actions), and adherence to the (Qur’an and the Sunnah).

In this hadith, there is proof regarding the virtue of Yusuf, peace be upon him, and his fathers because the Prophet peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, mentioned them.

In this hadith, there is proof regarding the humility of the Prophet because he made known to them the virtue of his brother- the noble Prophet – Yusuf.

In this hadith, there is proof regarding the virtue of the Arabs if they possess understanding of Islam and learn the religion, for indeed the noble Qur’an was sent down in the language of the Arab, thus, if they acquire understanding of the religion, they will be able to convey it in Allah’s earth. This is what took place in this Ummah of Muhammad, for indeed after he was sent, he called the Arabs to Iman until a great Ummah was established who were able to perform Jihad (a) and give Dawah in the path of Allah. They dispersed in the earth after acquiring understanding of their religion from Allah’s Messenger and spread it in the regions of the earth- propagated, teaching, performing Jihad and judging between the people, until Allah (gave Islam the upper hand) almost everywhere in the world through them, and this was a favour bestowed on them by Allah.

In this hadith, there is proof regarding the virtue of understanding in the religion and that the one who acquires understanding of the religion with a good intention in order to remove ignorance from himself, act based on the understanding in the Islamic religion and spread it in the earth, he has a great reward and station in the sight of Allah. And Allah knows best.

The evidence (or testimony for the main subject matter in this hadith) is that the people are of different descents. The best of them during the pre-Islamic era are the best in Islam if they possess (sound) understanding. Therefore, whoever was from the good people during the pre-Islamic era and acted that way amongst the people, then Allah blessed them to accept Islam and they acquire understanding, they’ll be the best people because they had a good basis which Islam increased in good and perfection. (1)

Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Whoever is held back by his deeds, his lineage will not push him forward”. (2)

Imam An-Nawawi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “Its meaning is that the one whose deeds are deficient and he does not catch up with the performers of (good) deeds, it is obligated to him not to crown himself with nobility of lineage and the virtues of his forefathers, while he is lagging behind in (performing good) deeds”. (3)

[1] :An Excerpt from “at-Taleeqaat Al-Maleehah Alaa Silsilah Al-Ahaadeeth As-Saheehah. 1/34-35

[2] Sahih Muslim 2699

[3] Sharh Sahih Muslim. 17/18

All the pleasures dwindle except one for the believer

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Uncategorized, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Whoever is given strength and facilitated to (engage in) something, his pleasure will be found in utilising that strength. Whoever is granted the strength to have sexual relations will find pleasure in utilising his strength in it. Whoever is given strength to become angry and overcome (others) will utilise the strength of his anger. Whoever is given the strength to eat and drink, his pleasure will be found in utilising his strength. Whoever is given the strength to (acquire) knowledge and understanding, his pleasure will be found in utilising his strength and directing it towards knowledge. Whoever is given strength in loving Allah, turning to Him in repentance, submission and obedience, being devoted to Allah (sincerely in one’s) heart, having an ardent desire to please, obey, and meet Allah in (the Hereafter) and desiring to come close to Allah, be recognised and loved by Allah, he will find his pleasure and bliss in utilising this strength in that. All the pleasures will dwindle and disappear, except this one (i.e. love of Allah).

[Al-Fawaa’id 121-122]

[1] O my Lord! My people deserted this Qur’an

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Imam Ibn Al Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: Boycotting the Qur’an is of different types:

To abandon listening to it; to abandon belief in it and not paying attention to it.

To abandon acting upon it. To abandon judging by it in the fundamentals of the religion and its subsidiary issues.

To (claim) that it does not give certainty. To (claim) that its statements do not lead to knowledge.

To abandon contemplating it. To abandon seeking to understand it. To abandon acquiring knowledge of what Allah intends by it and its remedies.

Even though some of these types of boycotting are less serious than others, they are all included in Allah’s statement:

وَقَالَ الرَّسُولُ يَا رَبِّ إِنَّ قَوْمِي اتَّخَذُوا هَٰذَا الْقُرْآنَ مَهْجُورًا

And the Messenger Muhammad will say: ‘’O my Lord! My people deserted this Qur’an”.

Al Fawa’id. page. 132

How the Khawaarij settled in different lands

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Bid'ah (Innovation), Deviated Groups, Sects and Parties, History of Islam, Khawaarij, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Refutations, Sin.

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Four thousand Khawaarij were fought against by Ali, Ameerul Mumineen, may Allah be pleased with him, at Nahrawan and none of them survived except nine. Two men from them departed to Sijistan and through them appeared the Khawarij of Sijstaan; two men from them departed to Yemen and through them appeared the Ibadiyyah of Yemen; two men from them departed to Oman and through them appeared the Khawaarij of Oman; two men from them departed towards other regions of the Arabian Peninsula and through them appeared the Khawaarij of those regions. A man from them departed to Syria. This was one of the reasons behind their settlement in different lands. Thereafter, they became different murderous sects upon divergent creeds.

Al-Firaq Baynal Firaq. page 80

Useless Claim

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Deviated Groups, Sects and Parties, Mental Health, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Qur'aan, Refutations, Shirk, Sin, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

“Our civilization was great. The Pharaohs were dark-skinned people and we must celebrate their achievements because the Europeans want to portray them as light-skinned people”.

Allah – The Exalted- said:

قَدْ خَلَتْ مِنْ قَبْلِكُمْ سُنَنٌ فَسِيرُوا فِي الْأَرْضِ فَانْظُرُوا كَيْفَ كَانَ عَاقِبَةُ الْمُكَذِّبِينَ

Many similar mishaps [troubles, problems] of life were faced by nations that have passed away before you, so travel through the earth, and see what was the end of those who disbelieved]. [Aal Imraan. 137]

Imam Ibnul Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: Indeed, there were nations like yourselves before you, so look to their evil end. You have to know that the reason behind their evil end was due to their disbelief in the revelations of Allah and His Messengers. They were the forefathers and you are the descendants. The main affair that connects you to each other is your disbelief and the ruling on that disbelief is destruction. [I’laam Al-Muwaqqi’een 1/181]

Imam Muhammad Bin Salih Al-Uthaymin, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: If it is said, “What is the benefit in narrating to us the stories of the destroyed nations despite the fact that this Ummah will not be completely destroyed in a manner similar to the destruction of the previous nations before it?”

The Answer: Indeed, this has two benefits: The first benefit is a clarification of Allaah’s blessings upon us that the occurrence of a complete destruction is removed from us, and that were it not for Allaah’s Benevolence we would have been deserving of it. Second, the likeness of the punishment they received may occur in the hereafter for the one who did what they did, if punishment was not received in the worldly life. And this may be understood from the statement of Allaah: “Such is the Seizure of your Lord when He seizes the population of towns while they are doing wrong. Verily, His Seizure is painful and severe. Indeed in that (there) is a sure lesson for those who fear the torment of the Hereafter.” So what is apparent from this Ayah is that what is similar to the punishment they received will happen in the Hereafter, and Allaah knows best. [Al-Muntaqaa Min Fawaa-idil Fawaa-id 123-124]

The Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: Indeed, Allah [The Most High] has removed from you the pride of the pre-Islamic period and its boasting about ancestors. One is only a pious believer or a wretched sinner. You are sons of Adam and Adam (was created from) dust. Let the people abandon boasting about their ancestors, for they are merely fuel in Jahannam; or they will become more insignificant in (the sight of) Allah than the beetle which rolls dung with its nose. [Sahih Abu Dawud 5116]

Allah [The Exalted] said:

وَإِذَا قِيلَ لَهُمُ ٱتَّبِعُواْ مَآ أَنزَلَ ٱللَّهُ قَالُواْ بَلۡ نَتَّبِعُ مَا وَجَدۡنَا عَلَيۡهِ ءَابَآءَنَآ‌ۚ أَوَلَوۡ ڪَانَ ٱلشَّيۡطَـٰنُ يَدۡعُوهُمۡ إِلَىٰ عَذَابِ ٱلسَّعِيرِ

And when it is said to them: “Follow that which Allah has sent down”, they say: “Nay, we shall follow that which we found our fathers (following).” (Would they do so) even if Shaitan (Satan) invites them to the torment of the Fire. [Luqman. 21]

Allah [The Exalted] stated:

وَلِكُلِّ أُمَّةٍ أَجَلٌ۬‌ۖ فَإِذَا جَآءَ أَجَلُهُمۡ لَا يَسۡتَأۡخِرُونَ سَاعَةً۬‌ۖ وَلَا يَسۡتَقۡدِمُونَ
يَـٰبَنِىٓ ءَادَمَ إِمَّا يَأۡتِيَنَّكُمۡ رُسُلٌ۬ مِّنكُمۡ يَقُصُّونَ عَلَيۡكُمۡ ءَايَـٰتِى‌ۙ فَمَنِ ٱتَّقَىٰ وَأَصۡلَحَ فَلَا خَوۡفٌ عَلَيۡہِمۡ وَلَا هُمۡ يَحۡزَنُونَ
وَٱلَّذِينَ كَذَّبُواْ بِـَٔايَـٰتِنَا وَٱسۡتَكۡبَرُواْ عَنۡہَآ أُوْلَـٰٓٮِٕكَ أَصۡحَـٰبُ ٱلنَّارِ‌ۖ هُمۡ فِيہَا خَـٰلِدُونَ
فَمَنۡ أَظۡلَمُ مِمَّنِ ٱفۡتَرَىٰ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ كَذِبًا أَوۡ كَذَّبَ بِـَٔايَـٰتِهِۦۤ‌ۚ أُوْلَـٰٓٮِٕكَ يَنَالُهُمۡ نَصِيبُہُم مِّنَ ٱلۡكِتَـٰبِ‌ۖ حَتَّىٰٓ إِذَا جَآءَتۡہُمۡ رُسُلُنَا يَتَوَفَّوۡنَہُمۡ قَالُوٓاْ أَيۡنَ مَا كُنتُمۡ تَدۡعُونَ مِن دُونِ ٱللَّهِ‌ۖ قَالُواْ ضَلُّواْ عَنَّا وَشَہِدُواْ عَلَىٰٓ أَنفُسِہِمۡ أَنَّہُمۡ كَانُواْ كَـٰفِرِينَ

قَالَ ٱدۡخُلُواْ فِىٓ أُمَمٍ۬ قَدۡ خَلَتۡ مِن قَبۡلِڪُم مِّنَ ٱلۡجِنِّ وَٱلۡإِنسِ فِى ٱلنَّارِ‌ۖ كُلَّمَا دَخَلَتۡ أُمَّةٌ۬ لَّعَنَتۡ أُخۡتَہَا‌ۖ حَتَّىٰٓ إِذَا ٱدَّارَڪُواْ فِيہَا جَمِيعً۬ا قَالَتۡ أُخۡرَٮٰهُمۡ لِأُولَٮٰهُمۡ رَبَّنَا هَـٰٓؤُلَآءِ أَضَلُّونَا فَـَٔاتِہِمۡ عَذَابً۬ا ضِعۡفً۬ا مِّنَ ٱلنَّارِ‌ۖ قَالَ لِكُلٍّ۬ ضِعۡفٌ۬ وَلَـٰكِن لَّا تَعۡلَمُونَ
وَقَالَتۡ أُولَٮٰهُمۡ لِأُخۡرَٮٰهُمۡ فَمَا كَانَ لَكُمۡ عَلَيۡنَا مِن فَضۡلٍ۬ فَذُوقُواْ ٱلۡعَذَابَ بِمَا كُنتُمۡ تَكۡسِبُونَ

And every nation has its appointed term; when their term is reached, neither can they delay it nor can they advance it an hour (or a moment). O Children of Adam! If there come to you Messengers from amongst you, reciting to you, My Verses, then whosoever becomes pious and righteous, on them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve. But those who reject Our Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) and treat them with arrogance, they are the dwellers of the (Hell) Fire, they will abide therein forever. Who is more unjust than one who invents a lie against Allah or rejects His Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.)? For such their appointed portion (good things of this worldly life and their period of stay therein) will reach them from the Book (of Decrees) until, when Our Messengers (the angel of death and his assistants) come to them to take their souls, they (the angels) will say: “Where are those whom you used to invoke and worship besides Allah,” they will reply, “They have vanished and deserted us.” And they will bear witness against themselves, that they were disbelievers. (Allah) will say: “Enter you in the company of nations who passed away before you, of men and jinns, into the Fire.” Every time a new nation enters, it curses its sister nation (that went before), until they will be gathered all together in the Fire. The last of them will say to the first of them: “Our Lord! These misled us, so give them a double torment of the Fire.” He will say: “For each one there is double (torment), but you know not.” The first of them will say to the last of them: “You were not better than us, so taste the torment for what you used to earn.” [Surah Al-A’raaf. Verses 34-39]

Allah [The Exalted] said:

مَّثَلُ ٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ بِرَبِّهِمۡ‌ۖ أَعۡمَـٰلُهُمۡ كَرَمَادٍ ٱشۡتَدَّتۡ بِهِ ٱلرِّيحُ فِى يَوۡمٍ عَاصِفٍ۬‌ۖ لَّا يَقۡدِرُونَ مِمَّا ڪَسَبُواْ عَلَىٰ شَىۡءٍ۬‌ۚ ذَٲلِكَ هُوَ ٱلضَّلَـٰلُ ٱلۡبَعِيدُ (١٨) أَلَمۡ تَرَ أَنَّ ٱللَّهَ خَلَقَ ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَٱلۡأَرۡضَ بِٱلۡحَقِّ‌ۚ إِن يَشَأۡ يُذۡهِبۡكُمۡ وَيَأۡتِ بِخَلۡقٍ۬ جَدِيدٍ۬ (١٩) وَمَا ذَٲلِكَ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ بِعَزِيزٍ۬ (٢٠) وَبَرَزُواْ لِلَّهِ جَمِيعً۬ا فَقَالَ ٱلضُّعَفَـٰٓؤُاْ لِلَّذِينَ ٱسۡتَكۡبَرُوٓاْ إِنَّا ڪُنَّا لَكُمۡ تَبَعً۬ا فَهَلۡ أَنتُم مُّغۡنُونَ عَنَّا مِنۡ عَذَابِ ٱللَّهِ مِن شَىۡءٍ۬‌ۚ قَالُواْ لَوۡ هَدَٮٰنَا ٱللَّهُ لَهَدَيۡنَـٰڪُمۡ‌ۖ سَوَآءٌ عَلَيۡنَآ أَجَزِعۡنَآ أَمۡ صَبَرۡنَا مَا لَنَا مِن مَّحِيصٍ۬ (٢١) وَقَالَ ٱلشَّيۡطَـٰنُ لَمَّا قُضِىَ ٱلۡأَمۡرُ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ وَعَدَڪُمۡ وَعۡدَ ٱلۡحَقِّ وَوَعَدتُّكُمۡ فَأَخۡلَفۡتُڪُمۡ‌ۖ وَمَا كَانَ لِىَ عَلَيۡكُم مِّن سُلۡطَـٰنٍ إِلَّآ أَن دَعَوۡتُكُمۡ فَٱسۡتَجَبۡتُمۡ لِى‌ۖ فَلَا تَلُومُونِى وَلُومُوٓاْ أَنفُسَڪُم‌ۖ مَّآ أَنَا۟ بِمُصۡرِخِڪُمۡ وَمَآ أَنتُم بِمُصۡرِخِىَّ‌ۖ إِنِّى ڪَفَرۡتُ بِمَآ أَشۡرَڪۡتُمُونِ مِن قَبۡلُ‌ۗ إِنَّ ٱلظَّـٰلِمِينَ لَهُمۡ عَذَابٌ أَلِيمٌ۬ (٢٢) وَأُدۡخِلَ ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ وَعَمِلُواْ ٱلصَّـٰلِحَـٰتِ جَنَّـٰتٍ۬ تَجۡرِى مِن تَحۡتِہَا ٱلۡأَنۡہَـٰرُ خَـٰلِدِينَ فِيہَا بِإِذۡنِ رَبِّهِمۡ‌ۖ تَحِيَّتُہُمۡ فِيہَا سَلَـٰمٌ (٢٣) أَلَمۡ تَرَ كَيۡفَ ضَرَبَ ٱللَّهُ مَثَلاً۬ كَلِمَةً۬ طَيِّبَةً۬ كَشَجَرَةٍ۬ طَيِّبَةٍ أَصۡلُهَا ثَابِتٌ۬ وَفَرۡعُهَا فِى ٱلسَّمَآءِ (٢٤) تُؤۡتِىٓ أُڪُلَهَا كُلَّ حِينِۭ بِإِذۡنِ رَبِّهَا‌ۗ وَيَضۡرِبُ ٱللَّهُ ٱلۡأَمۡثَالَ لِلنَّاسِ لَعَلَّهُمۡ يَتَذَڪَّرُونَ (٢٥) وَمَثَلُ كَلِمَةٍ خَبِيثَةٍ۬ كَشَجَرَةٍ خَبِيثَةٍ ٱجۡتُثَّتۡ مِن فَوۡقِ ٱلۡأَرۡضِ مَا لَهَا مِن قَرَارٍ۬ (٢٦) يُثَبِّتُ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ بِٱلۡقَوۡلِ ٱلثَّابِتِ فِى ٱلۡحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنۡيَا وَفِى ٱلۡأَخِرَةِ‌ۖ وَيُضِلُّ ٱللَّهُ ٱلظَّـٰلِمِينَ‌ۚ وَيَفۡعَلُ ٱللَّهُ مَا
يَشَآءُ (٢٧)

The parable of those who disbelieve in their Lord is that their works are as ashes, on which the wind blows furiously on a stormy day, they shall not be able to get aught of what they have earned. That is the straying, far away (from the Right Path). Do you not see that Allah has created the heavens and the earth with truth? If He will, He can remove you and bring (in your place) a new creation! And for Allah that is not hard or difficult (i.e. very easy for Allah). And they all shall appear before Allah (on the Day of Resurrection) then the weak will say to those who were arrogant (chiefs): “Verily, we were following you; can you avail us anything from Allah’s Torment?” They will say: “Had Allah guided us, we would have guided you. It makes no difference to us (now) whether we rage, or bear (these torments) with patience, there is no place of refuge for us.” And Shaitan (Satan) will say when the matter has been decided: “Verily, Allah promised you a promise of truth. And I too promised you, but I betrayed you. I had no authority over you except that I called you, so you responded to me. So blame me not, but blame yourselves. I cannot help you, nor can you help me. I deny your former act in associating me (Satan) as a partner with Allah (by obeying me in the life of the world). Verily, there is a painful torment for the Zalimun (polytheists and wrong-doers, etc.).” And those who believed (in the Oneness of Allah and His Messengers and whatever they brought) and did righteous deeds, will be made to enter Gardens under which rivers flow, – to dwell therein forever (i.e.in Paradise), with the permission of their Lord. Their greeting therein will be: Salam (peace!) . See you not how Allah sets forth a parable? – A goodly word as a goodly tree, whose root is firmly fixed, and its branches (reach) to the sky (i.e. very high). Giving its fruit at all times, by the Leave of its Lord and Allah sets forth parables for mankind in order that they may remember. And the parable of an evil word is that of an evil tree uprooted from the surface of earth having no stability. Allah will keep firm those who believe, with the word that stands firm in this world (i.e. they will keep on worshipping Allah Alone and none else), and in the Hereafter. And Allah will cause to go astray those who are Zalimun (polytheists and wrong-doers, etc.), and Allah does what He wills. [Ibrahim 18-27]

Thus, regardless of whether the Pharoahs were dark skinned or not, or the greatness of their worldly achievements, they are fuel for the fire.

Two Hungry Wolves Let Loose Among Sheep

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul.

In The Name of Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Two hungry wolves let loose among sheep are not more harmful than a person’s craving after wealth and status is to his Religion.” (1)

Shaikh Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, clarified that the corruption through craving for wealth and high status in the religion cannot be lesser than the corruption (caused) by two hungry wolves let loose among a livestock, and this is manifest, for indeed there is (nothing) of this craving in the sound religion. This is because when the heart tastes the sweetness of servitude to Allah and love of Him, nothing else becomes more beloved to it than that. Through this, evil and immorality are averted from the people who are sincere to Allah. (2)

Imam Ibn Rajab, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: Eagerness for high status is of two types: the first type is to seek high status through leadership, authority and wealth. This is very dangerous and in most cases it prevents (a person) from the good of the afterlife, its nobility, honour and elevated station. Allah, The Most High, said:

[تِلْكَ الدَّارُ الْآخِرَةُ نَجْعَلُهَا لِلَّذِينَ لَا يُرِيدُونَ عُلُوًّا فِي الْأَرْضِ وَلَا فَسَادًا ۚ وَالْعَاقِبَةُ لِلْمُتَّقِينَ – That home of the Hereafter (i.e. Paradise), We shall assign to those who rebel not against the truth with pride and oppression in the land nor do mischief by committing crimes. And the good end is for the pious]. [Al-Qasas. 83]

The second type is to seek high status and to be raised in status above the people through the religious affairs, such as knowledge, deeds and Zuhd. This is more abominable than the first type and greater in danger and corruption. This is because knowledge, deeds and Zuhd are for seeking what Allah (has prepared for His slaves) of high station and everlasting bliss – a means to drawing close to Him and to receive His favours. Imam Sufyaan Ath-Thawree, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Knowledge has more virtue because it is for attaining fear of Allah, but if not, it is just like all other things”. (3)

Imam Muhamad Ibn Saaleh Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “Two hungry wolves let loose on a flock! Then what will remain from the flock?! Even when a single wolf stops eating because its stomach is full, it still kills the rest of the flock, then what about two hungry wolves let loose on a flock!! Not a single will remain. Likewise, a person who craves for wealth or status will corrupt the religion. Because of this, it is obligated to a person that his intention is far removed from this- far removed from craving for wealth and status in the religion. We ask Allah to aid us to accomplish this”. (4)

[1] Declared authentic by Imam Al-Albani [ may Allah have mercy upon him] in Saheeh Sunan At-Tirmidhee 2376

[2] An Excerpt from (Majmoo Al-Fataawaa) 10/215]

[3] Excerpts from the book (Two hungry wolves let loose amongst a flock of sheep) pages: 29-33]

[4] An Excerpt from at-Taleeq Alaa Siyaasah Shar’iyyah. pages 454-455

Reflections from some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi al-Mad’khali [17 of 80]

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Basics, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Sin, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

One of the obstacles to knowledge and the disappearance of knowledge is when you do not act upon what you have learnt. Therefore, O students of knowledge! It is incumbent upon us to act upon what we have learnt. Sound knowledge is that which purifies the souls. How would you purify the soul if you do not act?! How would you be cleansed from the impure hidden traits and the evil traits that are visible, such as bad manners, arrogance, envy, covetousness and showoff?! All these deeds occur as a result of not applying knowledge. You possess knowledge of any matter, knowledge urges you towards sincerity. Your Lord, The Blessed and Exalted, said:

وَمَا أُمِرُوا إِلَّا لِيَعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ مُخْلِصِينَ لَهُ الدِّينَ حُنَفَاءوَيُقِيمُوا الصَّلَاةَ وَيُؤْتُوا الزَّكَاةَ ۚ وَذَٰلِكَ دِينُ الْقَيِّمَةِ

And they were commanded not, but that they should worship Allah, and worship none but Him Alone, and perform the prayer and give Zakat; and that is the right religion. [Surah Al-Bayyinah. 5]

How many times has Allah censured the Yahud and Nasaaraa because they do not act?! You have heard a similitude that was given about a scholar amongst the scholars of Bani Israa’eel.

Allah said:

مَثَلُ ٱلَّذِينَ حُمِّلُوا۟ ٱلتَّوْرَىٰةَ ثُمَّ لَمْ يَحْمِلُوهَا كَمَثَلِ ٱلْحِمَارِ يَحْمِلُ أَسْفَارًۢا بِئْسَ مَثَلُ ٱلْقَوْمِ ٱلَّذِينَ كَذَّبُوا۟ بِـَٔايَٰتِ ٱللَّهِ وَٱللَّهُ لَا يَهْدِى ٱلْقَوْمَ ٱلظَّٰلِمِينَ

The likeness of those who were entrusted with the (obligation of the) Taurat, but who subsequently failed in those (obligations), is as the likeness of a donkey who carries huge burdens of books [but understands nothing from them]. How bad is the example (or the likeness) of people who deny the Ayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, signs, revelations, etc.) of Allah. And Allah guides not the people who are wrong-doers. [Al-Jumu’ah’ 5]

They acquired knowledge of the Tawrat but did not act upon it, thus that led them to disbelief in Allah. Had they acted upon what is in the Tawrat that was revealed to Musa, peace be upon him, they would have believed in Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, but neither did they act upon what was in the Tawrat nor what was in the Injeel, nor what Muhammad brought; they belied him.

An Excerpt from “Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm”. page 226