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Author: Abdullah Jallow

Behaviour Expected – In The Masjid and Elsewhere – When Interacting With Our Contemporaries In Any Affair of Knowledge

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

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

Do I Have a Low Opinion of My Contemporary Just Because He Has Not Benefitted More Than Me In Affairs of Knowledge?!

The questioner [may Allaah bless him] asks Shaikh Saaleh Aala Ash-Shaikh [may Allaah preserve him]: “I have been seeking knowledge for a number of years, but despite this, neither have I consolidated the knowledge-based information (sought after) nor am I aware of the benefit (acquired from that). What do you advise me? May Allaah reward you”.

Answer: Do not say that you are not aware of a benefit because a student of knowledge is (considered to be engaged) in worship. The aim behind seeking knowledge is that the person receives Allaah’s [The Mighty and Majestic] Pleasure.

You all know about the man who went away to repent, so the angel of death came to him (i.e. took his soul); then the angels of mercy and the angels of punishment disputed about his affair- angels of mercy said, “He came along being repentant and remorseful in his heart in the presence of Allaah” but the angels of punishment said, “He has done no good at all”. Then another angel came in the form of a human being in order to decide between them and said, “Measure between the two lands” (i.e. to find out which of them he was closer to). They measured it and found him nearer to the land where he intended to go (i.e. the land of the pious people), so the angels of mercy took him. This repentant man was forgiven because his steps (towards repentance) were recorded for him; therefore the steps of a student of knowledge towards knowledge are an act of worship similar to the steps of the repentant migrator towards the land of goodness. Seeking knowledge is better for you than supererogatory prayer or some of the supererogatory acts of worship; therefore there has to be a truthful intention (behind it). Then the benefit will (be acquired) bit by bit. And the aim is not to become a scholar or a student of knowledge initially; rather the aim behind your seeking knowledge is to remove ignorance from yourself-worshiping Allaah [The Mighty and Majestic] with correct acts of worship and that your Aqeedah is sound, become submissive to Allaah, safeguarded from doubtful affairs that are made to resemble the truth and from seeking fame. Allaah (The Most High) said:

يَوۡمَ لَا يَنفَعُ مَالٌ۬ وَلَا بَنُونَ
إِلَّا مَنۡ أَتَى ٱللَّهَ بِقَلۡبٍ۬ سَلِيمٍ۬

The Day whereon neither wealth nor sons will avail; except him who brings to Allah a clean heart [clean from Shirk (polytheism) and Nifaq (hypocrisy)].

Allaah (The Mighty and Exalted) said: [إِنَّ ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ وَعَمِلُواْ ٱلصَّـٰلِحَـٰتِ إِنَّا لَا نُضِيعُ أَجۡرَ مَنۡ أَحۡسَنَ عَمَلاً – Verily! As for those who believe and do righteous deeds, certainly! We shall not suffer to be lost the reward of anyone who does his (righteous) deeds in the most perfect manner].

If you never benefited except yourself and your family, then there is great good in this. (1)

 

Neither Belittle Nor Mock at Others Below You in Knowledge

Allaah [The Most High] said:
وَإِذْ قَالَ مُوسَىٰ لِقَوْمِهِ إِنَّ اللَّهَ يَأْمُرُكُمْ أَن تَذْبَحُوا بَقَرَةً ۖ قَالُوا أَتَتَّخِذُنَا هُزُوًا ۖ قَالَ أَعُوذُ بِاللَّهِ أَنْ أَكُونَ مِنَ الْجَاهِلِينَ

And (remember) when Musa (Moses) said to his people: “Verily, Allah commands you that you slaughter a cow.” They said, “Do you make fun of us?” He said, “I take Allah’s Refuge from being among Al-Jahilun (the ignorants or the foolish). [2:67]

A Jaahil [ignorant one] is that one who speaks with a speech that contains no benefit and he mocks at the people. As for a sensible person, he sees that one of the most blameworthy traits -which is abhorred by [sound] religion and intellect- is to mock at someone who is a human being like himself. And if he has been favoured over another person, then this favour necessitates that he thanks Allaah and shows mercy to Allaah’s servants. Therefore, when Musa [alayhis-salaam] said this to them [i.e. I take Allaah’s Refuge from being among the ignorant], they knew that it [i.e. what he commanded them] was truth, so they said: [ادْعُ لَنَا رَبَّكَ يُبَيِّن لَّنَا مَا هِيَ -call upon your Lord for us that He may make plain to us what it is!(2:68)] (2)

Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadee [may Allaah preserve him] said, “Abdullaah Ibn Al-Mubaarak [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, ‘Whoever belittles the scholars will ruin his religion; whoever belittles the rulers will ruin his worldly affairs and whoever belittles his brothers will ruin his sense of honour’. O my brothers! Therefore, let us behave in a good manner, especially the students of knowledge”. (2.1)

The Shaikh also said: This knowledge (of the Sharee’ah) was spread mostly through (praiseworthy) manners – through patience, forbearance, firm fulfilment of obligations and responsibilities, truthfulness, honourable behaviour, nobility, noble mindedness, fulfilling promises and what is similar to that. These manners became manifest to the people, so the hearts, ears and eyes of the nations accepted this guidance, which the companions of Muhammad carried”. (2.2)

The Shaikh also said: “Good manners is a necessity in the path of seeking knowledge, and (when dealing with) scholars and elders. It was said to king Abdul Azeez [may have mercy upon him], ‘How do you view the people?’ He said, ‘The people in my view are three types: a man who is older than me, so he is placed in my father’s position; a man who is in my age group, so he is placed in my brother’s position, and a man who is younger than me, so he is like my son’. Therefore, a Muslim behaves towards his brothers in this manner- he places the people in these different categories. The student of knowledge should respect the elders, honour his contemporaries and show mercy to those below his age. The one who is old in age is like his father, the one in his age group is like his brother and the one below him in age is like his son. (2.3)

 

Al-Allaamah Saaleh Aala Ash-Shaikh [may Allaah preserve him] gave some advice regarding the relationship expected between students of knowledge whilst in pursuit of knowledge

He said: There may be different people in attendance -some of them attend for knowledge, some of them attend as beginners, among them are those who attend to be in a sitting where Allaah is remembered and they listen (especially if it is after dawn or during time periods when supplications are answered), and among them are those who attend for a benefit, and are content with whatever they obtain. And that which is befitting in reality is that the students of knowledge should treat each other well, so the student teaches his brother – who is a beginner – the way to learn and gives him advice. This is why we should show mercy to one another in the lessons, and in all affairs of knowledge, and perhaps the reason scholars begin their texts with the advice to the seeker of knowledge to be merciful. This is why you find in Hadeeth Ijaazaat that the first hadith transmitted is “The merciful will be shown mercy by the Most Merciful. Be merciful to those on the earth and the One in the heavens will have mercy upon you”. [Saheeh Sunan Tirmidhee 1924]

Question: Why do they learn the hadith, “The merciful will be shown mercy by the Most Merciful?” Answer: Know, may Allaah have mercy upon you, that it is one of the qualities of a seeker of knowledge – whom Allaah blesses and shows mercy – that he is merciful towards those around him, guides, teaches and aids them etc. If whilst in pursuit of knowledge you are merciful to the people – to colleagues and friends, and being present in cooperation and goodness, then receive glad tidings of Allaah’s Mercy and His true promise based on the statement of His Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him], “The merciful will be shown mercy by the Most Merciful”. (3)

Finally, Al-Allaamah Muqbil Bin Haadi Al-Waadi’ee [may Allaah have mercy upon him] stated, “If a person fears being amazed with himself, then let him not compare himself with contemporaries, (rather) look at Haafidh Ibn Hajr or Al-Haafidh Ibn katheer, Shaikhul Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah and other than them amongst the Huffaaz”. (4)

Imaam Ash-Shaafi’ee [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “If self-amazement is concealed within your deeds, then recall the one whose pleasure you are seeking, which blessings you desire and which outcome you fear. The one who ponders upon this, his actions will become small in his presence”. (5)

Imaam Sufyaan Ath’Thawree [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “Beware of what corrupts your deeds, for indeed Riyaa is what corrupts your deeds. And if it is not Riyaa, then it may be you being amazed with yourself until it makes you think that you are more virtuous than your brother. It may be that you have not achieved deeds the likes of which he has achieved, and it may be that he has more ورع [apprehensive fear (see footnote a)] and righteous deeds than you. And if it is not self-amazement, then beware of loving the praise of the people-loving their praise so that they may honour you due to your deeds and see you as someone of nobility and high status in their hearts. Remembering death a lot is enough to make you have less concern for the things of the worldly life and make you have a fervent desire for the afterlife. A prolonged hope (for the things of this worldly life) is enough as a (means) to having little fear of (Allaah) and committing acts of disobedience, and the distress and regret on the Day of Judgment is enough for the one who knows but does not act”. (6)

Footnote a: ورع Wara (apprehensive fear): The translation of this tern as ‘Apprehensive fear’ was taken from one of Shaikh Amjad Rafiq’s articles.

[Ref 1: Source: الوصايا الجليّة للاستفادة من الدروس العلميّة للشيخ العلامة صالح آل الشيخ- Question 3. Page 24. slightly paraphrased]

[Ref 2: An Excerpt from Tayseer al-Kareem ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer Kalaam al-Mannaan]

[Ref 2.1: Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm’ pages 123-124]

[Ref 2.2: An Excerpt from Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm. page 86]

[Ref 2.3: An Excerpt from Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm’ page 123]

[Ref 3: An Excerpt From (الوصايا الجلية للاستفادة من الدروس العلمية – pages 30-32. paraphrased]
https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2022/10/29/a-young-student-of-knowledge-studying-in-a-muslim-country-gave-us-an-important-reminder/

[Ref 4: Al-Bashaa-ir Fis-Samaa-i Al-Mubaashir’ page 14. with introduction by Shaikh Muhammad Bin Abdul-Wahhaab Al-Wassaabee (rahimahullaah)]

[Ref 5: Siyar A’laam Nubulaa: 10/42]

[Ref 6: Hilyatul Awliyaa 6/391]

The Obligation of Hijrah (Migration) to Daarul Islaam (A Muslim Country)

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

The Obligation of Hijrah to Daarul Islaam – by Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz and Al-Allaamah Ubaid al-Jaabiri

Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] was asked: What is your advice to brothers and sisters who live in England and do not work, and receive financial aid from the government? Sometimes they get a job, but they do not inform the government. Is this work of theirs a right thing?

Answer: It is obligated on all Muslims residing in Daarul Kufr (1) to migrate to Bilaad Al-Islaamiyyah (2) – if they are able to do so – in which duties of Islam are established. If not able to do that, then (they migrate) to the countries that are lesser in evil, just as a group of the companions migrated – when commanded by the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] – from Makkah to Abyssinia, because the land of Abyssinia at that time was lesser evil than the evil that befell the Muslims in Makkah before the conquest of Makkah. But, if they cannot, then they must fear Allaah in their place (of residence), beware of what Allah has forbidden them and fulfil what Allaah has enjoined upon them. And there is no sin on them in accepting help and assistance from the non-Muslim state if this does not result in abandoning an obligation or committing a prohibited act, (but) they are not entitled to take assistance except officially as decided by the state, and they are not allowed to lie to obtain it. And it is obligated on all of them to fear Allaah in everything, beware of what Allaah forbids, seek understanding in the Qur’an and Sunnah among themselves and ask the people of knowledge (i.e. the scholars) about what is difficult for them to understand (or regarding a difficult situation that requires a verdict) , even if by correspondence or by phone. May Allaah rectify the circumstances of all Muslims, preserve their religion for them, grant them understanding in it, and protect them from the evil of themselves and the evil of their enemies, for indeed He is magnanimous and generous. [Majmoo Fataawaa Wa Maqaalaat Ash-Shaikh Ibn Baaz 28/238]

Al-Allaamah Ubaid Bin Abdillaah Al-Jaabir [may Allaah have mercy upon him] stated: In the name Allaah and all praise is due to Allaah. May Allaah send His salaah and salaam upon our Prophet Muhammad and his family and all his companions. I say: The establishment of this affair is not excluded from that which the Book of our Lord and the Sunnah of our Prophet demonstrated; and [that which] the Imaams of Knowledge and the Religion [past and present follow(ed), pertaining to migration from the lands of kufr to the lands of Islaam, or from a kaafir land or to another kaafir land in which the Muslim’s Religion and honour is safe. In summary, the one who sits and accompanies me knows that of me. I say, and with Allaah is facilitation of Tawfeeq (i.e. guidance and the ability to act upon it):

Firstly: This Hijrah is from the legislated ordinances of Allaah and He has not abrogated it. He [sallal-laahu-alayhi-wasallam] said: “Hijrah will not cease to continue until repentance ceases to continue, and repentance will not cease to continue until the sun rises from the west”. So, it [hijrah] remains.

Secondly: What is apparent to me concerning Hijrah at present is of two examples [affairs]; [a] Obligation [b] Sunnah. The Obligatory Hijrah: If a person is in a kaafir land (being) put to trial in his religion and honour, and he is unable to establish that which Allaah has enjoined upon him pertaining to his Religion and worship of his Lord, then Hijrah is obligatory upon him on the basis of what has already been clarified; if he is able to make Hijrah, yes, then he migrates to a Muslim land and this is the Asl, or to a Kaafir land in which his Religion and honour is safe, just as the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] commanded the Muslims to migrate to Habasha [Ethiopia] when the Quraish harmed them; and (he) mentioned that there was a king [in Habasha] who oppresses no one under his protection, or as he said: “(oppresses no one) next to him.” This is what I affirm and adhere to as [religion] to Allaah.

As for the recommended prescribed Hijrah: It is the Hijrah from the land of the disbelievers to the lands of Islaam in order to strengthen his religion, or to gain knowledge, or to earn lawful earnings in the land of Islaam. So when this is established- and if I did say on a day from the days about making hijrah to Birmingham unrestrictedly- then this is a slip [mistake] and I seek Allaah’s forgiveness from this if it was an upright transmission of the trustworthy people of Sunnah. This is the third point or affair.

The Fourth Point: Many amongst the people in Europe or in the Asian States in India or other than it ask; they are put to trial in their Religion by some of the innovators from the brelviyyah- the extremist soofees from the people of Wahdatul Wujood and other than them. So I say them [i.e. those put to trial]: Make Hijrah to Birmingham because Maktabatus Salafiyyah is there. Therefore, my answer to them is not that Birmingham is a land of Hijrah unrestrictedly, for Birmingham is from the cities of Britain and Britain is a Kaafir Land. I urge them to make Hijrah to where they will find the Maktabah, where they will affiliate with Maktabatus Salafiyyah over there [in Britain], and to participate in lessons and muhaadaraat within which are scholars of excellence, from them: Ash-Shaikh Abdullaah Bin Abdur Rahmaan Al-Ghudiyaan from the Committee of Major Scholars and Fatwah Committee of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia. He delivered lessons to them and has died [rahimahullaah]. So the likes of this Maktbah is worthy of being affiliated to [for] the one who cannot find a place to seek shelter; especially if he has a desire to attain knowledge of the Sharee-ah, particularly in the affair of Aqeedah, the Sunnah and waging war against innovation and its people. This is what I mentioned and I affirm it. And I repeat: if I did establish [affirm] the opposite of that, then it is one of two affairs: [a] It is either a slip [mistake] from me or [b] a distortion [misrepresentation] of (my speech). And that which is from me, then indeed I seek the forgiveness of Allaah from it; and that which is a distortion [misrepresentation] of my speech and a forged saying on me, then I ask Allaah to set it aside between me and my adversaries on yaumul qiyaamah. [End of quote] http://www.salafitalk.net/st/viewmessages.cfm?Forum=9&Topic=12027

Footnotes 1 and 2: Daarul Islaam (or Bilaad Al-Islaamiyyah) is a country whose people are predominantly Muslims, even if the ruler is either a polytheist or does not ascribe to any religion. This land is a Muslim land and it is considered Daarul Islam. As for Daarul Kufr, it is a country whose people are predominantly disbelievers [in Allaah, or disbelievers in both Allaah and His final Messenger Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him)]. For further details listen here:

 

Let’s Not Be Preoccupied With Excess Food and Drink to The Extent That Maghrib Prayer Is Delayed Without a Need!

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

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

Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] was asked: The female questioner says in the last question: “Is it Sunnah when breaking the fast, or breaking of the fast by the fasting person, to eat dates, drink water; then get up to pray Maghrib, then after that eat whatever food and drink he wants?”

Response: Yes; because this is the (deed) in which the two beneficial affairs can be combined together (i.e. break the fast as well as pray Maghrib without unnecessary delay); so he hasten to break the fast with what Allaah has made easy such as wet or dry dates, or water (see footnote a), then he goes to pray with the congregation so that he does not miss the congregational prayer; then he comes back and has dinner. There is no harm in this. However, if – for example – they are a group on a journey, they may eat and have dinner, then pray. If they delay the dinner and offer the prayer after they break their fast, there is no harm in that; but in cities and villages, a person eats what Allaah makes easy for one to break the fast with, then he goes to prayer so that he does not miss the congregational prayer. (1)

Footnote a: Abu Dharr [may Allaah be pleased with him] reported that Allaah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “My Ummah will continue in goodness so long as they hasten to break their fast and delay the pre-fasting meal”. [Saheeh Al-Jaami 7224]

Abu Hurayrah [may Allaah be pleased with him] reported that the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “The religion will not cease to prevail as long as people hasten to break the fast, because the Jews and the Christians (i.e. those amongst them who deviated from the path of their Prophets) delay it”. (2)

“The religion will not cease to prevail”– Meaning, triumphant and lofty or manifest and clear; “as long as the people hasten to break the fast”– Meaning, they earnestly hasten to break the fast; “because the Jews and the Christians delay it” [i.e. those amongst them who deviated from the path of their Prophets]. At-Teebiy [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “In this is proof that upright establishment of the religion of pure Islamic monotheism is by way of opposing the enemies amongst the people of the scripture, and being in agreement with them ruins the religion”. [i.e. what they have innovated in the religion of the Prophets] (3)

Shaikhul Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “This is a text regarding (the fact that) triumph of the religion is attained through hastening to break the fast, and it is for the purpose of opposing the Jews and Christians [i.e. those amongst them who deviated, innovated in religion and opposed their prophets]. And when it is the case that opposing them is a reason behind the triumph of the religion, then the purpose of sending the Messengers is so that the religion ordained by Allaah prevails over all others. Therefore, being in opposition to (the deviated people) is one of the greatest goals behind the advent of the Messengers”. (4)

Sahl Ibn Sad [may Allaah be pleased with him] said that Allaah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “The people will not cease to be upon good as long as they hasten to break the fast”. (5)

Imaam An-Nawawi [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “In this is an urge to hasten (to break the fast) after the setting of the sun is ascertained. And what this means is that the affair of the Ummah will not ceased being consistent and that they will (remain upon) good if they preserve this Prophetic tradition. If they delay breaking the fast, then this is a sign of corruption”. (6)

They will not cease to be upon good if they do this by acting upon the Sunnah and limit themselves to its prescribed legislated boundaries, and not being over-stringent (through what their) intellects (suggest to them) and changing its principles. The people of the scripture [i.e. those amongst them who deviated] delayed breaking the fast until the stars appeared. (7)

Breaking the fast in the Masjid: Al-Allaamah Abdullaah Bin Humaid [may Allaah have mercy upon him] was asked: Is attendance at the Haram (in Makkah) and breaking the fast over there something desired in the Sunnah or not, for some people obligate that on themselves?

Answer: It is not Sunnah; rather some people break their fast at the Haram in order to be present for Maghrib Salaah. That is because they will miss the Maghrib Salaah if they were to break their fast at home. And it is not the case that breaking the fast at a Masjid has a distinguished virtue; rather it is for the purpose of attending the congregational prayer. So they (i.e. the people) break their fast over there in order to attend the congregational prayer and not miss it. As for merely breaking the fast, it contains the same reward whether the person does so in his house or at another place. They (i.e. the people) only choose it (i.e. the Masjid) because the Salaah is established over there, so that they can perform it at the Kabah and together with the Muslims as a group. This is the aim. (8)

Finally, let us pay attention to this advice of Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz so that we do not preoccupy ourselves with food and drink to the extent that the Maghrib prayer is delayed without a need, because indeed there is enough time to eat after the Maghrib prayer.

[Ref1:paraphrased https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/12020/%D9%83%D9%8A%D9%81%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AC%D9%85%D8%B9-%D8%A8%D9%8A%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7%D9%81%D8%B7%D8%A7%D8%B1-%D9%88%D8%B5%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D8%BA%D8%B1%D8%A8 ]

[Ref 2: Abu Dawud Number 2353. Hadeeth graded ‘Hasan’ by Imaam Al- Albaanee in Saheeh Abu Dawud. Publisher: Maktabah Al-M’aarif. 1st Edition]

[Ref 3: Awnul Ma’bood Sharh Sunan Abee Daawud. Vol 3. Pages 343-344. slightly paraphrased. Publisher: Daarul Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah. 1st Edition 1419AH (1998)]

[Ref 4: Iqtidaa As-Siraat Al-Mustaqeem 1/209. slightly paraphrased]

[Ref 5: Saheeh Muslim 1098]

[Ref 6: Sharh Saheeh Muslim. Slightly paraphrased. Vol 7 pages 180-181. Publisher: Daar Al-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah. 1st Edition 1421AH (2000)].

[Ref 7: Fat’hul Baaree Sharh Saheeh Al-Bukhaari Vol 4/ 253. Publisher: Daarus Salaam. 1st Edition 1421AH (2000)]

[Ref 8: Al-Fataawaa Wad-Duroos Fil Masjidil Haraam. pages 528-529]

Generosity In Ramadhaan Does Not Necessitate That We Become Wasteful

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Charity (Sadaqah), Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Fasting, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Ramadhan, Worship - 'Ibaadah', Zakaat.

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

Allaah [The Most High] said:

وَآتِ ذَا الْقُرْبَىٰ حَقَّهُ وَالْمِسْكِينَ وَابْنَ السَّبِيلِ وَلَا تُبَذِّرْ تَبْذِيرًا
إِنَّ الْمُبَذِّرِينَ كَانُوا إِخْوَانَ الشَّيَاطِينِ ۖ وَكَانَ الشَّيْطَانُ لِرَبِّهِ كَفُورًا

And give to the kindred his due and to the Miskin (poor) and to the wayfarer. But spend not wastefully (your wealth) in the manner of a spendthrift. Verily, spendthrifts are brothers of the Shayaateen (devils), and the Shaitan (Devil – Satan) is ever ungrateful to his Lord. [Surah Al-Israa. Aayaat 26-27]

Imaam As-Sa’di [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “Shaytaan does not call the person except to every blameworthy habit. So he calls him to miserliness and to refrain from spending, but when the person refuses to obey him, he calls him to overspending and extravagance; but Allaah calls to the most just and balance of affairs and He praises the person for that, as He [The One free from all imperfections] stated about His faithful slaves: [وَالَّذِينَ إِذَا أَنْفَقُوا لَمْ يُسْرِفُوا وَلَمْ يَقْتُرُوا وَكَانَ بَيْنَ ذَٰلِكَ قَوَامًا – And those, who, when they spend, are neither extravagant nor miserly, but hold a medium (way) between those (extremes)]”. [Surah Furqaan. Verse 67] (1)

Ibn Abbaas [may Allaah be pleased with him and his father] narrated: “The Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] was the most generous amongst the people, and he used to be more so in the month of Ramadaan when Jibreel visited him, and Jibreel used to meet him on every night of Ramadaan till the end of the month. The Prophet used to recite the Noble Qur’aan to Jibreel, and when Jibreel met him, he used to be more generous than the fair wind [sent by Allaah with glad tidings (rain) in readiness and haste to do charitable deeds]”. [Saheeh al-Bukhaari 1902]

Zain Ibnul Muneer [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “The intent behind the likeness (or comparison) between the Prophet’s [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] generosity and the fair wind, is that the wind is one of mercy which Allaah [The Exalted] sends and sends down rain that falls everywhere- both on a dead land [i.e. falls on a dry land and revives it] as well as the land that is not dead; (likewise) the Prophet’s good conduct and benevolence benefits everyone – the poor, the wealthy and the one who has enough – more than the rain that falls [after the arrival of that] fair wind”. (2)

Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “He [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] was the most generous amongst the people with regards to wealth and bestowing (things) to the people, and not that he was (only) generous after being asked. And in the final year (of his life), Jibreel met him twice and he finished the recitation of the (Qur’aan) twice. And from the benefits of (this hadeeth) is that: (a) it is more virtuous to study and recite the Qur’aan at night with the righteous people, the scholars and the good people. The Prophet recited (the Qur’aan to Jibreel) to receive that which Allaah has of reward [i.e. reward in the afterlife]. (b) Generosity in times (when people are in need) and in Ramadaan is something sought after [in the religion of Islaam]. (3)

Imaam Ibnul Qayyim [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “The limits of Generosity are between two extremes; when one goes beyond its limits, it leads to extravagance and squander. And when a person is lacking in generosity, it leads to miserliness and tight-fistedness”. (4)

Al-Allaamah Saaleh Al-Fawzaan [may Allaah preserve him] said, “These squanderers who waste meat and food and dispose of it in waste bins should be reminded that there are hungry people hoping for a mouth full of (food) and a scrap of bread. (Should) fear Allaah and to fear Him in their gatherings, and that they do not become the cause of Allaah’s blessings being stop”. (5)

An Important Affair Regarding Charity

Allaah [The Exalted] said: [قَوۡلٌ۬ مَّعۡرُوفٌ۬ وَمَغۡفِرَةٌ خَيۡرٌ۬ مِّن صَدَقَةٍ۬ يَتۡبَعُهَآ أَذً۬ى‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ غَنِىٌّ حَلِيمٌ۬ – Kind words and forgiving of faults are better than Sadaqah (charity) followed by injury. And Allah is Rich (Free of all wants) and He is Most-Forbearing]. [Surah Al-Baqarah. Aayah 263]

Imaam Ibnul Qayyim [may Allaah have mercy upon him] stated: Allaah informed (us) that kind speech- which all hearts recognize and do not reject; and forgiveness, which is to pardon the one who treated you badly-, are better than charity that is followed by harm. Kind speech is good treatment and charity through speech; and forgiveness is good treatment by way of refraining from retaliation and holding someone responsible. These are two types of good treatments. As for charity followed by harm, it is a good deed that is followed by its nullifier, and there is no doubt that two good deeds are better than a good dead that is nullified. This also includes the forgiveness shown by the person when he encounters some harm and harsh behaviour from the one who he could not fulfil his request; therefore, showing forgiveness to him would be better than giving him charity and then harming him. Speaking kindly to him, refraining [from retaliation] and forgiving him is better for you than giving him charity and then harming him. Then Allaah [The Most High] ended this Aayah with the mention of two of His Attributes which are suitable for mention in this affair, saying: [وَٱللَّهُ غَنِىٌّ حَلِيمٌ۬- and He is Most-Forbearing]. Indeed, Allaah is not in need of you and nothing [from the benefits of] your charity reaches him, rather all the abundant good in this charity and its benefits returns to you and not to Allaah [Glorified and Exalted be He]. Therefore, how can one flaunt by way of his spending and causes harm whilst Allaah is completely not in need of it and everything else besides it. In addition to this, Allaah is forbearing because He does not hasten punishment against the one who flaunts. Allaah is completely free from need in every way and He is the One described as One with forbearance, the one who overlooks and forgives, alongside the fact that He bestows His vast [limitless] favours and ample [limitless] gifts; then how can one of you harm another person by flaunting and offending, even though what you give is little, and you are weak and poor [in the sight of Allaah]. Then Allaah said:

يَـٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُواْ لَا تُبۡطِلُواْ صَدَقَـٰتِكُم بِٱلۡمَنِّ وَٱلۡأَذَىٰ كَٱلَّذِى يُنفِقُ مَالَهُ ۥ رِئَآءَ ٱلنَّاسِ وَلَا يُؤۡمِنُ بِٱللَّهِ وَٱلۡيَوۡمِ ٱلۡأَخِرِ‌ۖ فَمَثَلُهُ ۥ كَمَثَلِ صَفۡوَانٍ عَلَيۡهِ تُرَابٌ۬ فَأَصَابَهُ ۥ وَابِلٌ۬ فَتَرَڪَهُ ۥ صَلۡدً۬ا‌ۖ لَّا يَقۡدِرُونَ عَلَىٰ شَىۡءٍ۬ مِّمَّا ڪَسَبُواْ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ لَا يَهۡدِى ٱلۡقَوۡمَ ٱلۡكَـٰفِرِينَ

O you who believe! Do not render in vain your Sadaqah (charity) by reminders of your generosity or by injury, like him who spends his wealth to be seen of men, and he does not believe in Allah, nor in the Last Day. His likeness is the likeness of a smooth rock on which is a little dust; on it falls heavy rain which leaves it bare. They are not able to do anything with what they have earned. And Allah does not guide the disbelieving people. [Al-Baqarah 264].

This verse necessitates that flaunting and harm nullifies the reward in charity, and it is also proof that good deeds can be nullified by evil deeds”. (6)

Allaah [The Exalted] said:

وَمَثَلُ ٱلَّذِينَ يُنفِقُونَ أَمۡوَٲلَهُمُ ٱبۡتِغَآءَ مَرۡضَاتِ ٱللَّهِ وَتَثۡبِيتً۬ا مِّنۡ أَنفُسِهِمۡ كَمَثَلِ جَنَّةِۭ بِرَبۡوَةٍ أَصَابَهَا وَابِلٌ۬ فَـَٔاتَتۡ أُڪُلَهَا ضِعۡفَيۡنِ فَإِن لَّمۡ يُصِبۡہَا وَابِلٌ۬ فَطَلٌّ۬‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ بِمَا تَعۡمَلُونَ بَصِيرٌ

And the likeness of those who spend their wealth seeking Allah’s Pleasure while they in their ownselves are sure and certain that Allah will reward them (for their spending in His Cause), is the likeness of a garden on a height; heavy rain falls on it and it doubles its yield of harvest. And if it does not receive heavy rain, light rain suffices it. And Allah is All-Seer of (knows well) what you do.

Imaam Ibnul Qayyim [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: This parable is the basis of the spending that is based on sincerity and truthfulness, for indeed seeking the Pleasure of Allaah is sincerity itself, and being certain in oneself is truthfulness. Indeed, the spender is faced with two [corrupt] affairs and if he is saved from them, he will be similar to what has been mentioned in this Aayah. Firstly is seeking praise or commendation, or [spending due] to one of his worldly ambitions, and this is the state of affairs of most those who spend. The second affair is the weakness, swaying and doubt in his soul as to whether he should [spend] or not. So, [the first corrupt affair] prevents one from seeking the Pleasure of Allaah and the second prevents him from being certain about spending, because indeed being certain is that the soul is given the courage, strengthened and pushed to spend, and this is its truthfulness. As for seeking the Pleasure of Allaah, this is sincerity. When it is the case that the basis of spending to seek the Pleasure of Allaah and being certain about it is likened to a garden- the garden with numerous trees and is situated on an elevated place, then indeed it is the garden that is more perfect than the garden that is situated at a very low place. That is because when a garden is elevated, [exposed] to the air, exposed to the sun when it is rising and after it has risen, as well as at the time of its setting, then its fruits become more mature, wholesome, better and more numerous, because fruits increase in their good quality and good health [when more exposed] to the air and sun, as opposed to fruits that are grown under the shade. When it is the case that nothing is feared for a garden that is situated in an elevated place, except insufficient water, therefore Allaah said, [أَصَابَهَا وَابِلٌ۬ – heavy rain falls on it], and thus its fruits are brought forth and it produces the blessings [decreed by Allaah]. So, it brings forth its fruit twice as much as that of others, or twice as much due to the heavy rain. This is similar to the situation of those who are foremost in spending.

Then Allaah said: [فَإِن لَّمۡ يُصِبۡہَا وَابِلٌ۬ فَطَلٌّ۬ – And if it does not receive heavy rain, light rain suffices it]. This is inferior to that of the heavy rain; but it is enough for the garden because of the [suitability and fertility] of its hotbed and the good manner in which it was planted, therefore it is enough to bring forth its benefit by way of the light rain. This is similar to the case of the pious people- those upon the second level of spending and they are of different stations in the sight of Allaah.

The people [whose spending is likened to the garden that received the heavy rain] are of a higher station – those who spend their wealth day and night, in secret and openly, and they give precedence to others over themselves, even though they are in need themselves. As for the people whose [spending is likened to the garden that received] the light rain, they are those upon a level in the middle. The likeness of these two groups and their deeds is that of a garden upon an elevated place, and their spending – a lot- is likened to a heavy rain and light rain. And just as one of the two types of rains necessitates that it will make the fruits of the garden [good and healthy] etc…likewise is their spending- whether a lot or small, after it is was based on seeking the Pleasure of Allaah and being certain in oneself regarding that. It [i.e. their spending] is pure in the sight of Allaah – increases and doubles. (7)

[Ref 1: An Excerpt from Tafseer as-Sadi]

[Ref 2: An Excerpt from Fat-hul Baari Sharh Saheeh Al-Bukhaari. Vol 4. Page 150. Hadeeth 1902. Publisher- Daarus Salaam 1421 (Year 2000). 1st Edition). Slightly paraphrased]

[Ref 3: An Excerpt from Al-Hulalul Ibreeziyyah Min Ta’liqaat Al-Baaziyyah Alaa Saheeh Al-Bukhaariy. 2/121. Footnotes numbers: 1, 2 &3]

[Ref 4: Al-Fawaa’id page 207- 209]

[Ref 5: Source: An Excerpt From (Al-Bayaan Li-Akhtaa’i Ba’dil Kuttaab) Vol 2. page 27]

[Ref 6: An Excerpt from ‘Tareequl Hijratayn pages 452-453. Slightly paraphrased]

[Ref 7: An Excerpt from Tareequl Hijratayn. by Imaam Ibnul Qayyim (rahmahullaah). Pages 454-455. Slightly paraphrased]

The Mu’adh-dhin In Ramadhaan Is Trusted, But He Should Not Be Over-stringent

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Ramadhan, Salafi Mosques & Centres, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

The Mu’adh-dhin Is Relied Upon

Al-Allaamah Abdullah Bin Muhammad Bin Humaid [may Allaah nhave mercy upon him] was asked: “When does the one stops eating and drinking; is it whilst the Adhaan (of Fajr) is being called or after the Adhaan has been called?”

Answer: The Islamic legislation commands cessation of (eating and drinking) when fajr arrives (i.e. when a person is certain that Fajr has entered), whether before the Adhaan or after the Adhaan (i.e. whether he hears the Adhaan being called after he is already certain that fajr has entered or whether he heard it thereafter after already being certain that it has entered). That is because Allaah said: “And eat and drink until the white thread (light) of dawn appears to you distinct from the black thread (darkness of night), then complete your Saum (fast) till the nightfall.” [Surah Al-Baqara: Ayah: 187]

However, the common practice is that the Mu’adh-dhin does not call the Adhaan except when fajr arrives. So when it is the case that it has being legislated to (cease eating and drinking) when the Adhaan is called, then it is incumbent to stop and not eat. Therefore, stop eating when the Adhaan begins, because in the majority of cases the Mu’adh-dhin does not call the Adhaan except when fajr arrives, especially the Mu’adh-dhin of Masjid Al-haraam (i.e. the Kabah). (see footnote a) (1)

Calling The Adhaan Four or Five Minutes Before Fajr As a Precaution

Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-Uthaymeen [may Allaah have mercy upon him] stated: This precaution is not legislated and indeed the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “The over-stringent ones are destroyed”. (see footnote b) It is incorrect because if they take this precaution in relation to the fasting, they will commit a mistake or a misdeed. That is because many people get up and pray Fajr when they hear the Mu’adh-dhin. Therefore, the one who hears the A’dhaan of the Mu’adh-dhin before Fajr and starts praying might have prayed before the right time and prayer before its right time is incorrect. So in this regard, the Musalloon [performers of the prayer] have been wronged. Likewise, the Saa’imoon [i.e. those who intend to perform the fast on that day] are wronged because he [Mu’adh-dhin] prevents them from eating and drinking despite the fact that it is permissible [i.e. eating and drinking until the correct time of Fajr].  He commits an offence against the Saa’imoon because he prevents them from that which Allaah has made permissible for them, and he commits an offence against the performers of the prayer when they pray before the right time of Fajr and this is a nullifier of the prayer. Therefore, it is obligated on the Mu’adh-dhin to fear Allaah [The Mighty and Majestic] and follows- whilst aspiring to establish what is correct- that which the Book and Sunnah guides to. (2)

Footnote a: NB: Abu Huraira [may Allaah be pleased with him] reported that Allaah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “When one of you hears the call to prayer while eating the pre-fasting meal and his vessel is in his hand, let him not put it down until he fulfills his needs from it”. [Sunan Abee Daawud 2350]

Footnote b: The Messenger said, ‘’The over-stringent ones are destroyed’’: Imaam Nawawi (rahimahullaah) said: ”The over-stringent ones are those who look too deeply (into affairs) and are excessive- those who exceed the Hudood [prescribed legislated sharia boundaries] in their statements and actions.” [Source: Saheeh Muslim Hadeeth Number 2670 & Saheeh Muslim Bi-Sharh An-Nawawi Vol 16, Page 180 & page 220. Publisher Dar Al-Kotob Al-Ilmiyyah 1st ed 1421AH (Year 200)]

Also, we witness the extremism of those whose Ramadhaan time tables – in the name of precaution – compels the people to stop eating at the wrong time and thus deprive them of the opportunity to eat and drink to their satisfaction before the beginning of the fast. Therefore, follow the time tables of the Masaajid of Sunnah.

[Ref 1: Al-Fataawaa Wad-Duroos Fil-Masjid Al-Haraam. Pages 473-474]
[Ref 2: An Excerpt from ‘Majmoo Fataawaa. 19/295]

Sound Creed and Methodology, and Distancing from Path of Ahlul Bidah In Relation to Suhoor and Iftaar

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Bid'ah (Innovation), Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Abu Dharr [may Allaah be pleased with him] reported that Allaah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “My Ummah will continue in goodness so long as they hasten to break their fast and delay the pre-fasting meal”. [Saheeh Al-Jaami 7224]

Abu Hurayrah [may Allaah be pleased with him] reported that the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “The religion will not cease to prevail as long as people hasten to break the fast, because the Jews and the Christians (i.e. those amongst them who deviated from the path of their Prophets) delay it”. (1)

“The religion will not cease to prevail”– Meaning, triumphant and lofty or manifest and clear; “as long as the people hasten to break the fast”– Meaning, they earnestly hasten to break the fast; “because the Jews and the Christians delay it” [i.e. those amongst them who deviated from the path of their Prophets]. At-Teebiy [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “In this is proof that upright establishment of the religion of pure Islamic monotheism is by way of opposing the enemies amongst the people of the scripture, and being in agreement with them ruins the religion”. [i.e. what they have innovated in the religion of the Prophets] (2)

Shaikhul Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “This is a text regarding (the fact that) triumph of the religion is attained through hastening to break the fast, and it is for the purpose of opposing the Jews and Christians [i.e. those amongst them who deviated, innovated in religion and opposed their prophets]. And when it is the case that opposing them is a reason behind the triumph of the religion, then the purpose of sending the Messengers is so that the religion ordained by Allaah prevails over all others. Therefore, being in opposition to (the deviated people) is one of the greatest goals behind the advent of the Messengers”. (3)

Sahl Ibn Sad [may Allaah be pleased with him] said that Allaah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “The people will not cease to be upon good as long as they hasten to break the fast”. (4)

Imaam An-Nawawi [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “In this is an urge to hasten (to break the fast) after the setting of the sun is ascertained. And what this means is that the affair of the Ummah will not ceased being consistent and that they will (remain upon) good if they preserve this Prophetic tradition. If they delay breaking the fast, then this is a sign of corruption”. (5)

They will not cease to be upon good if they do this by acting upon the Sunnah and limit themselves to its prescribed legislated boundaries, and not being over-stringent (through what their) intellects (suggest to them) and changing its principles. The people of the scripture [i.e. those amongst them who deviated] delayed breaking the fast until the stars appeared. (6)

Is The One Who Provides Suhoor For Needy People The Same As The One Who Provides Iftaar?

Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-Uthaymeen [may Allaah have mercy upon him] was asked: In Ramadhaan, one notices the concern people give to providing Iftaar for those needy people who observe the fast – whether it is in the Masaajid or the houses – in order to receive reward just as the Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “Whoever provides Iftaar for a fasting person, he has reward similar to his” [i.e. reward similar to that of the fasting person]. However, we find big tables [i.e. with food and drink] at the time of Iftaar -in the Masaajid- but few people sit to eat, whereas it is very rare to find one who provides Suhoor for a needy fasting person. Therefore, is the reward received by the one who provides Suhoor for the people similar to the one who provides Iftaar?

Answer: I do not know of a (specific) exhortation -as an act of Sunnah- to provide Suhoor for the fasting people, and it is not possible to compare it to providing Iftaar. That is because the fasting person’s need for eating and drinking during Iftaar is much greater than his need for eating and drinking during Suhoor; therefore, we do not go beyond what has been reported in the Sunnah. However, whoever knows someone- from the poor people around him- who is in need of food for Suhoor, then the door is open in this affair [i.e. he can provide that person with food for Suhoor]. (7)

Al-Allaamah Abdullaah Bin Humaid [may Allaah have mercy upon him] was asked: Is attendance at the Haram (in Makkah) and breaking the fast over there something desired in the Sunnah or not, for some people obligate that on themselves?

Answer: It is not Sunnah; rather some people break their fast at the Haram in order to be present for Maghrib Salaah. That is because they will miss the Maghrib Salaah if they were to break their fast at home. And it is not the case that breaking the fast at a Masjid has a distinguished virtue; rather it is for the purpose of attending the congregational prayer. So they (i.e. the people) break their fast over there in order to attend the congregational prayer and not miss it. As for merely breaking the fast, it contains the same reward whether the person does so in his house or at another place. They (i.e. the people) only choose it (i.e. the Masjid) because the Salaah is established over there, so that they can perform it at the Kabah and together with the Muslims as a group. This is the aim. (8)

[Ref 1: Abu Dawud Number 2353. Hadeeth graded ‘Hasan’ by Imaam Al- Albaanee in Saheeh Abu Dawud. Publisher: Maktabah Al-M’aarif. 1st Edition]

[Ref 2: Awnul Ma’bood Sharh Sunan Abee Daawud. Vol 3. Pages 343-344. slightly paraphrased. Publisher: Daarul Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah. 1st Edition 1419AH (1998)]

[Ref 3: Iqtidaa As-Siraat Al-Mustaqeem 1/209. slightly paraphrased]

[Ref 4: Saheeh Muslim 1098]

[Ref 5: Sharh Saheeh Muslim. Slightly paraphrased. Vol 7 pages 180-181. Publisher: Daar Al-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah. 1st Edition 1421AH (2000)].

[Ref 6: Fat’hul Baaree Sharh Saheeh Al-Bukhaari Vol 4/ 253. Publisher: Daarus Salaam. 1st Edition 1421AH (2000)]

[Ref 7: Fataawaa Alaa At-tareeq Fee Masaa’il Mutanawwi’ah. Fatwa Number 871]

[Ref 8: Al-Fataawaa Wad-Duroos Fil Masjidil Haraam. pages 528-529]

Reminder to Our Sons Regarding Our Precious and Noble Daughters-In-Law

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Family & Women, Marriage (Nikkah), Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Allaah [The Exalted] said: [وَهُوَ الَّذِي خَلَقَ مِنَ الْمَاءِ بَشَرًا فَجَعَلَهُ نَسَبًا وَصِهْرًا وَكَانَ رَبُّكَ قَدِيرًا – And it is He Who has created man from water, and has appointed for him kindred by blood, and kindred by marriage. And your Lord is Ever All-Powerful to do what He will]. [Surah Al-Furqan. Aayah 54]

The Love Between Husband and Wife

Allaah (The Most High) said:

وَمِنْ آيَاتِهِ أَنْ خَلَقَ لَكُم مِّنْ أَنفُسِكُمْ أَزْوَاجًا لِّتَسْكُنُوا إِلَيْهَا وَجَعَلَ بَيْنَكُم مَّوَدَّةً وَرَحْمَةً ۚ إِنَّ فِي ذَٰلِكَ لَآيَاتٍ لِّقَوْمٍ يَتَفَكَّرُونَ

And among His Signs is this, that He created for you wives from among yourselves, that you may find repose in them, and He has put between you affection and mercy. Verily, in that are indeed signs for a people who reflect. [Surah Ar-Rum. Aayah 21]

Imaam As-Sadi [may Allaah have mercy upon him] stated: “In most cases, you will not find love in anyone similar to the love and mercy between a husband and wife”. [Tafseer As-Sadi]

The Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “There is nothing like marriage for two who love one another” – Meaning, there is no bond like that bond between two people in marriage who love one another, for if they are married and love is present between them, it will increase in strength every day. (1)

Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-Uthaymeen [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: If a person says: “What will make a man love his wife and vice versa?” We say: Allaah has clarified this in His statement: [وَعَاشِرُوهُنَّ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ – And live with them honourably]. [Surah An-Nisaa. Aayah 19] If every person lives with his wife honourably and vice versa, then love, a strong bond and a happy married life will be established. (2)

The Blessing of Gentleness In The Households

Jareer Ibn Abdullah [may Allaah be pleased with him] reported that the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “Verily, Allah [The Mighty and Majestic] rewards for gentleness that which He does not give insolence. If Allah loves a servant, He grants him the quality of gentleness. No household is deprived of kindness, except that they have been truly deprived”. (3)

Aa’Isha [may Allaah be pleased with her] narrated that Allaah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said to her, “O Aa’Isha! Be gentle, for indeed when Allaah wishes good for a household, He guides them to gentleness”. Al-Allaamah Zaid Bin Haadi Al-Mad’khali [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “This hadeeth contains proof regarding the fact that it is obligatory to give sincere advice and the first people one should give sincere advice is the members of the household- the wives, sons, daughters and others. Also this hadeeth contains proof regarding the virtue of gentleness in all affairs, for indeed gentleness is not found in any affair except that it beautifies it, and it is not removed from anything except that it damages it. On the other hand, the opposite of gentleness is warn against and it is the harshness that is applied in other than its rightful place, because its end result will be alienation and disharmony”. (4)

A Man’s Knowledge Regarding The Feelings of His Wife In different Situations, Whilst Sincere Love And Respect Is Maintained Between Them: https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2020/09/13/a-mans-knowledge-regarding-the-feelings-of-his-wife-in-different-situations-whilst-sincere-love-and-respect-is-maintained-between-them/

 

Satan hates the good relationship between husband and wife

Jaabir [may Allaah be pleased with him] narrated that Allaah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him]said: Iblis places his throne upon water; he then sends detachments [for creating dissension]; the nearer to him in rank are those who are most notorious in creating dissension. One of them comes and says: I did so and so. And he says: You have done nothing. Then one amongst them comes and says: I did not spare so and so until I sowed the seed of discord between a husband and a wife. The Satan goes near him and says: ‘You have done well. A’mash said: He then embraces him. [Saheeh Muslim. Number:2813]

Imaam Ibnul Qayyim [may Allaah have mercy upon him] stated: “And because of the fact that this bond (between husband and wife) is from the most beloved affairs to Allaah and His Messenger, it is from the most hated affairs to the enemy of Allaah [i.e. shaytaan]. Therefore he hastens to split two people who love another for the sake of Allaah”. (5)

Welcome O Noble daughters-in-law! Daughters of noble generous fathers and forbearing mothers who gave you in marriage to our sons. You’ve left beloved fathers, mothers, brothers and sisters to be in the company of our sons, therefore, it is incumbent upon us to welcome you with open arms and preserve you like precious pearls. May Allaah bless you for being another source of increased happiness and joy in our lives. We ask Allaah by His Greatest Name to grant you and our sons happiness, steadfastness, love and compassion Aameen.

And we say to our sons: your fathers are not infallible, therefore, never copy their mistakes in the name of manliness; rather, know that the Sunnah is the only source of happiness, success and upright conduct. Imaam Sufyaan Ibn Uyaynah [may Allaah have mercy upon him] used to say, “Indeed, the Messenger [peace and blessings of allaah be upon him] is the greatest criterion (i.e. amongst mankind and Jinn) and all affairs are presented to him (i.e. for judgement and judged) based on his manners, path and guidance; so whatever is in agreement with this is truth, and whatever is in opposition is falsehood”. (6)

Never copy our mistakes in the name of “My father used to do such and such” because success is not found in following fathers and forefathers upon error. May Allaah make you and your wives Mubaarak wherever you maybe Aameen.

[Ref 1: Reported by Imaam Ibn Maajah 2/153. Hadeeth Number: 1847. Declared Authentic by Imaam Albaanee in As-Saheehah 2/196. Sharh Sunan Ibn Maajah by As-Sindee (rahimahullaah)… Hadeeth Number 1847’ Book of Marriage- Chapter: The Excellence of Marriage]

[Ref 2: Fataawaa Noor Alad-Darb 6/29]

[Ref 3: Saheeh At-Targheeb. Number 2666]

[Ref 4: At-ta’leeqaat Al-Maleehah Alaa Silsilah Al-Ahaadeeth As-Saheehah. Vol 1 page 277. Slightly paraphrased]

[Ref 5: Rawdatul Muhibbeen. Page 188]

[Ref 6: Al-Jaami Li-Akhlaaq Ar-Raawi Wa Aadaab As-Saami’  page 8]

 

Caution When Am Given Access to Wealth, Status, Position or Recognition More Than Others!

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Allaah [The Exalted] said:

فَأَمَّا ٱلۡإِنسَـٰنُ إِذَا مَا ٱبۡتَلَٮٰهُ رَبُّهُ ۥ فَأَكۡرَمَهُ ۥ وَنَعَّمَهُ ۥ فَيَقُولُ رَبِّىٓ أَكۡرَمَنِ
وَأَمَّآ إِذَا مَا ٱبۡتَلَٮٰهُ فَقَدَرَ عَلَيۡهِ رِزۡقَهُ ۥ فَيَقُولُ رَبِّىٓ أَهَـٰنَنِ

As for man, when his Lord tries him by giving him honour and gifts, then he says (puffed up): “My Lord has honoured me.” But when He tries him, by straitening his means of life, he says: “My Lord has humiliated me!” [Surah Al-Fajr. Aayaat 15-16]

When tried with richness and wealth, and given in abundance, he says that his lord has honoured him due to what he has been given. And when afflicted with poverty, he says that his lord has degraded him. However, this view of his is incorrect; rather he should praise Allaah in both circumstances-in times of poverty and richness. (1)

The human is ignorant and unjust. He has no knowledge of the final outcomes of events. He thinks that the situation in which he finds himself is to continue and will never cease. He thinks that the kind treatment and blessings he receives from Allaah in the worldly life is an indication that he is honoured by Allaah, and that he is one close to Him. However, not everyone who receives Allaah’s blessings in this worldly life is one honoured by Allaah, and not everyone whom Allaah afflicts with poverty is one humiliated by Allaah; rather riches and poverty, scarcity and abundance are a trial and a test by way of which Allaah makes known those who will show gratitude and those who will exercise patience. (2)

What Did Prophet Sulaymaan [peace be upon him] say when he saw the throne of Bilqees [peace be upon her] placed before him within the twinkling of an eye?

[هَـٰذَا مِن فَضۡلِ رَبِّى لِيَبۡلُوَنِىٓ ءَأَشۡكُرُ أَمۡ أَكۡفُرُ‌ۖ – This is by the Grace of my Lord to test me whether I am grateful or ungrateful!]- Meaning, to test me by way of of it. He was not beguiled kingdom, authority and power as is the habit of the ignorant kings; rather he knew that this was a test from his Lord, so he was scared of not being thankful for these blessings. Then he clarified that being grateful to Allaah does not benefit Allaah; rather its benefits returns to the grateful one; so he said: [وَمَن شَكَرَ فَإِنَّمَا يَشۡكُرُ لِنَفۡسِهِۦ‌ۖ وَمَن كَفَرَ فَإِنَّ رَبِّى غَنِىٌّ۬ كَرِيمٌ۬- and whoever is ungrateful, (he is ungrateful only for the loss of his ownself). Certainly! My Lord is Rich (Free of all wants), Bountiful]- Meaning, Allaah is not in need of a person’s deeds, and He is generous, bestows abundant good that to both a grateful person and an ungrateful person, except that being grateful for the blessings He bestows leads to more blessings and being ungrateful leads to its decrease. (3)

Just Because We Are Given Does Not Mean That We Are of Higher Status

Al-Allaamah Saalih Al-Fawzaan [may Allaah preserve him] stated, “When the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] used to distribute wealth, he used to give those whose Eemaan was weak and the hypocrites – gave them more; but he did not give anything to the best of the Sahaabah; rather he entrusted them to their religion, for indeed due to their [strong] Eemaan they would not become angry if not given. As for the people of weak Eemaan, the Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] feared that they will be enraged, so he gave them and brought their hearts closer (the religion)”. (4)

Have I Ever Felt That Such and Such Believer Is Not Worthy to Be In a Gathering Where Many People Are Entitled to Be Present Because Either I Feel More Worthy of It or That His Presence Makes Me Feel That His Status Has Been Elevated to Me, So I Wish That He Is Prevented From That Gathering:

وَلَا تَطۡرُدِ ٱلَّذِينَ يَدۡعُونَ رَبَّهُم بِٱلۡغَدَوٰةِ وَٱلۡعَشِىِّ يُرِيدُونَ وَجۡهَهُ ۥ‌ۖ مَا عَلَيۡكَ مِنۡ حِسَابِهِم مِّن شَىۡءٍ۬ وَمَا مِنۡ حِسَابِكَ عَلَيۡهِم مِّن شَىۡءٍ۬ فَتَطۡرُدَهُمۡ فَتَكُونَ مِنَ ٱلظَّـٰلِمِينَ

And turn not away those who invoke their Lord, morning and afternoon seeking His Face. You are accountable for them in nothing, and they are accountable for you in nothing, that you may turn them away, and thus become of the Zalimun (unjust). [Surah Al-An’aam. Aayaat 52]

Meaning, “O Prophet! Do not keep the weak Muslims away from sitting with you, who worship their Lord at the beginning of the day and at the end of it, wanting by their righteous deeds the Face of Allaah. You are not accountable any thing with regards the deeds of these poor people, but their account of deeds is with Allaah, and they are not accountable for anything regarding your deeds. If you distance them, then indeed, you are among those who transgress the limits imposed by Allaah – those who place affairs in other than its right place”. (5)

 

Have I Ever Felt That I Am More Virtuous Just Because People Listen to Me or Accept My Intercession

Sahl [may Allaah be pleased with him] reported: A man passed by Allaah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him], and Allaah’s Messenger asked (his companions), “What do you say about this man?” They replied, “If he asks for a lady’s hand, he ought to be given her in marriage; and if he intercedes (for someone), his intercession will be accepted; and if he speaks, he will be listened to”. Allaah’s Messenger kept silent, and then another man from the poor Muslims passed by, and Allaah’s Messenger asked (them), “What do you say about this man?” They replied, “If he asks for a lady’s hand in marriage, no one will accept him, and if he intercedes (for someone), his intercession will not be accepted; and if he speaks, he will not be listened to”. Allaah’s Messenger said, “This poor man is better than so many of the first as to fill the earth”. Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] briefly commented on this hadith, saying, “This clarifies that what matters is the religion (of a person) and not wealth and status. All those (men) were from the Sahaabah”. (5.1)

 

Have I Ever Refused to Give Room to Someone In a Gathering Where Everyone Is Entitled to Be Present!

Allaah [The Most High] said:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا إِذَا قِيلَ لَكُمْ تَفَسَّحُوا فِي الْمَجَالِسِ فَافْسَحُوا يَفْسَحِ اللَّهُ لَكُمْ ۖ وَإِذَا قِيلَ انْشُزُوا فَانْشُزُوا يَرْفَعِ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مِنْكُمْ وَالَّذِينَ أُوتُوا الْعِلْمَ دَرَجَاتٍ ۚ وَاللَّهُ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونَ خَبِيرٌ

O you who believe! When you are told to make room in the assemblies, [spread out and] make room. Allah will give you [ample] room [from His Mercy]. And when you are told to rise up, rise up. Allah will exalt in degree those of you who believe, and those who have been granted knowledge. And Allah is Well-Acquainted with what you do. [58:11]

This is a practical code of behaviour commanded by Allaah to His believing slaves- that when they come together in one of their gatherings, some of them or some of those who have already arrived should make room [for others]; for indeed it is part of good etiquettes to make room for him [i.e. the other person] to reach his goal. And this is not to harm the one who is [already] in the gathering in anyway; rather he enables his [Muslim] brother to reach his goal without him being harmed, and reward is given in accordance with a deed; for indeed whoever makes room, Allaah makes room for him, and whoever shows generosity to his brother, Allaah will show him generosity.

[وَإِذَا قِيلَ انْشُزُوا – And when you are told to rise up]- Meaning: To rise up and retire from your gathering for an [obligatory or important] need [i.e. prayer etc], then [فَانْشُزُوا – rise up] – Meaning: proceed towards the fulfilment of that beneficial affair, for indeed the fulfilment of the likes of these affairs is connected to knowledge and Eemaan. And Allaah [The Most High] will exalt in degree the people of knowledge and Eemaan in accordance with what He has portioned out for them from knowledge and Eemaan.

[وَاللَّهُ بِمَا تَعْمَلُونَ خَبِير -And Allah is Well-Acquainted with what you do]- Meaning: Allaah [The Most High] rewards every performer of deeds in accordance with his [or her] deeds-if they are good, there will be good recompense, and if evil deeds, there will be an evil recompense. And in this Ayah [i.e. 58:11] is [a mention] of the virtue of knowledge, whose beautification and benefit is that one disciplines [himself or herself] with its etiquettes and act in accordance with what it necessitates. (6)

What Should I Strive to Achieve In Gatherings

Imaam As-Sadi [may Allaah have mercy upon him] stated: When you sit with the people, make humility the sign by which you are recognized. Fear of Allaah should be your shield and giving advice to the servants of Allaah as your constant habit. Be eager to (make) every gathering in which you sit one of goodness- either research into affairs of knowledge or advice on religious matters; either directing (others) towards a general or a particular beneficial affair, or making a mention of the blessings of Allaah; either making a mention of the superior status of praiseworthy manners and good etiquettes or warning against that which is detrimental to the well-being of one’s religious or worldly (affairs). The least of this (i.e. your companionship and advice to those you sit with) is that the earnings from their occupations should be by way of permissible (means) and not what is forbidden.

Behave well towards the young, the old and your peers. Deal with each of them in a way they deserve and have respect for the one who deserves to be respected and honoured. Be eager to make your congregation relaxed by way of speech that is appropriate and good, even if that was in relation to the worldly (affairs).
The sensible and determined person achieves abundant goodness through the gatherings of the people and he becomes more beloved to them than all (beloved things). This is because he approaches the people with what they approve (i.e. good) and statements they desire, and the foundation in this is success in taking over control of all the affairs placed before them.

And these affairs (i.e. good advice and companionship) become more emphasized on a journey, because during a journey sitting together is prolonged and the travellers are in need of having someone who revives their hearts with good statements, the news of events and joke–if all of that is truth and not too much–and to assist them with the essential affairs of travel. And Allaah is the One Who grants all success. (7)

We ask Allaah: [اللهم كما حَسَّنْت خَلْقِي فَحَسِّنْ خُلُقِي – O Allah! Just as You made my external form beautiful, make my character beautiful as well]. https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2021/07/31/o-allah-just-as-you-made-my-external-form-beautiful-make-my-character-beautiful-as-well/

[Ref1: An Excerpt from ‘Zaadul Maseer’  Slightly paraphrased]

[Ref2: An Excerpt from ‘Tayseer Al-Kareem Ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer Kalaam Al-Mannaan.’ Slightly paraphrased]

[Ref 3: An Excerpt from ‘Tayseer Al-Kareem Ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer Kalaam al-Mannaan’. Slightly paraphrased]

[Ref 4: An Excerpt from Tasheelul Il’haam Bi-Fiqhil Ahaadeeth Min Bulooghil Maraam’ Vol 6’ page 217-218. Publisher: Daar al-Imaam Ahmad’ 1st edition 1430 AH (Year 2009). slightly paraphrased

[Ref 5: At-Tafseer Al-Muyassar]

[Ref 5.1: Al-Hulalul Ibreeziyyah Min At-Taleeqaat Al-baaziyyah Alaa Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree 4/35. Footnote Number 3]

[Ref 6: An Excerpt from ‘Tayseer Al-Kareem Ar-Rahmaan Fee Tafseer Kalaam Al-Mannaan) by Imaam As-Sadi (rahimahullaah). slightly paraphrased]

[Ref 7: Noorul Basaa’ir Wal al-baab fee ahkaam al ‘Ibaadaat Wal Mu‘aamalaat Wal Huqooq Wal Aadaab’ pages 64-65]

Women Playing The Duff During Weddings

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Family & Women, Fatawa-Rulings, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul.

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

Shaikhul Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said:

Indeed, it known from the religion of Islam by necessity that the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] did not legislate for the righteous of his Ummah, the devout worshippers and the Zuhhaad (i.e. those who suffice only with necessities of life) amongst them to gather together to listen to melodic poetic verses whilst clapping, striking with a rod or a Duff. Likewise, he did not make it permissible for anyone to turn away from following him and that which he brought from the Book and wisdom (i.e. the Sunnah)- neither in affairs related to (acts of worship of the heart, creed etc) nor the apparent (acts of worship of the limbs); neither allowed for a common person nor for an elite (to do so); but rather the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] permitted some types of entertainment at weddings and the like, just as he permitted women to beat the duff at weddings and joyous occasions. As for the men during his time, neither any of them used to beat the Duff nor clap with the palm; rather, it has been established in the Saheeh (i.e. Al-Bukhaari and Muslim] that he said: “Clapping is for women and saying Subhaanallaah is for the men”. (see footnote a) He cursed women who imitate men, and men who imitate women. And since singing, playing the duff and clapping are the actions of women, the Salaf called the men who did that effeminate, and they called the singing men effeminate, and this is well known in their speech. (1)

Listen to speech of Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-Uthaymeen [may Allaah have mercy upon him] on these links about women playing the Duff: https://youtu.be/u5p3_7eHZVM https://youtu.be/YJyqPlLGUbU

And the speech of Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] on the same subject matter as follows:

تقول السائلة في آخر أسئلتها: هل يجوز ضرب الدف قبل يوم الزواج أو بعده؟
علماً بأنني سمعت بأنه لا يضرب إلا في يوم الزفاف فقط
الجواب
السنة أن يضرب في الزفاف ليلة الزفاف، هذا هو السنة، وهكذا للجواري أيام العيد لا بأس، أما غيره فتركه أحوط، تركه الأحوط للنساء، إنما السنة ضربه بإعلان النكاح ليلة الزفاف، أو كان في يوم العيد، كما فعله بعض الجواري عند النبي ﷺ، وقال لما أنكر عليهن أبو بكر قال: دعهن فإن لكل قوم عيدًا، وهذا عيدنا أهل الإسلام فدل على أنه يسمح للجواري والنساء بضرب الدف يوم العيد، عيد الفطر عيد النحر، وهكذا في الزواج لإعلان النكاح، أما الطبل لا، لا يستمع للطبل، ولكن الدف ذو الوجه الواحد، نعم

https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/13172/%D8%AD%D9%83%D9%85-%D8%B6%D8%B1%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AF%D9%81-%D9%84%D9%84%D9%86%D8%B3%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D9%82%D8%A8%D9%84-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B2%D9%88%D8%A7%D8%AC-%D9%88%D8%A8%D8%B9%D8%AF%D9%87

السؤال: أحسنتم، أيضاً يقول في سؤاله الثاني: هل يجوز استعمال الدف في الحفلات الدينية أم يعتبر من الآلات الموسيقية

المحرمة، أفيدونا جزاكم الله خيراً؟
الجواب: الدف إنما هو في حق النساء، هذا هو الذي يجوز في حق النساء في الأعراس ونحوها من أمور النساء، وأما الرجال فلا يجوز لهم لا الدف ولا الطبل ولا غير ذلك؛ لأنه من آلات الملاهي، وإنما يجوز اللعب بالحراب.. بالأسلحة.. بالرمي.. بالبنادق؛ لأنه تدرب على شئون الحرب، كما فعل الحبشة بين يدي النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم بالدرق والحراب في مسجده عليه الصلاة والسلام، هذا لا بأس به، أما اللعب بالدفوف والطبول والأغاني عليه، هذا لا يجوز، والله المستعان. نعم

https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/4668/%D8%AD%D9%83%D9%85-%D8%B6%D8%B1%D8%A8-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AF%D9%81-%D9%81%D9%8A-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AD%D9%81%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%AA-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AF%D9%8A%D9%86%D9%8A%D8%A9%C2%A0

————————————————————————

Footnote a: Abu Hurairah [may Allaah be pleased with him] reported that the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, “Saying Subhaanallaah is for men and clapping is for women.” (i.e. if the Imaam makes a mistake in the prayer) [Saheeh al-Bukhaari 1203]

Imaam Muhammad Ibn Abdul-Wahhaab [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: “They (i.e. the pre-Islamic people of ignorance) carried out worship by whistling and clapping their hands”. Al-Allaamah Saalih Al-Fawzaan [may Allaah preserve him] stated: From the affairs (i.e. practices) of the Pre-Islamic days of Ignorance which Allaah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] opposed was that they carried out worship-seeking closeness to Allaah- through whistling and clapping. Allaah (The Most High) said: [وَمَا كَانَ صَلاَتُهُمْ عِندَ الْبَيْتِ إِلاَّ مُكَاء وَتَصْدِيَةً َ – And their prayer at the House (Ka’bah) was nothing but whistling and clapping of hands]. [Surah Al-Anfaal:35]

That is: The polytheists did not seek closeness to Allaah at the noble kabah, except through whistling and clapping. Al-Mukaa means whistling and Tasdeeyah means clapping with the two hands and palms. They used to do this at the Baytullaah and named it prayer- seeking nearness to Allaah (Glorified and Exalted be He) by way of it. This is from the (affairs which) the shayaateen among mankind and jinn made fair seeming to them. That is because worship cannot be (carried out) except by way of that which Allaah (Glorified and Exalted be He) has legislated; it is Tawqeefiyyah (i.e. established by the texts of the Qur’aan and authentic Sunnah). A person should not initiate anything (i.e. acts of worship) or take it from someone else, while it is neither legislated by Allaah to be established as worship to Allaah nor does it have any origin in the Islamic legislation. (see Footnote b) (read here about bidah http://www.bidah.com/authors/Abu.Iyaad.cfm)

And from this, the prohibition of these two traits -whistling and clapping- can be established, even if a person does not intend to perform worship through them, because there is resemblance to the polytheists in that. And (with regards) to clapping, the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] specifically permitted it for the women when there is a need, such as informing the Imaam (i.e. by clapping) if he makes a mistake in the prayer. And that is because of the fitnah -if men are present- that may take place from her voice. It is neither permissible for a man to imitate the Kuffaar nor a women by way of clapping. And when it the case that clapping is not permissible for men out of necessity with regards to informing the Imaam when he makes a mistake in the prayer, rather he informs the Imaam by way of Tasbeeh [i.e. saying سبحان الله], then it not being allowed when there is no necessity is even a stronger reason. And in this there is rebuttal against those men who whistle in the gatherings in resemblance to the unbelievers. [Source: Sharh Masaa’il Al-Jaahiliyyah. Pages 104-105. Slightly paraphrased]

Footnote b: Bida’atul Mukaffirah and Bida’atul Mufassiqah: Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadee Al-Madkhalee [may Allaah preserve him] was asked whether there is a difference between Bidah Al-Mukaffirah and Bidah Al-Mufassiqah; so he replied that there is Bidah Mukaffirah, such as rejecting the Ruyah (i.e. denying that the believers will see Allaah in the afterlife); rejecting Allaah’s Uluww [i.e. denying that Allaah is above his creation –Allaah ascended over the Throne in a way that benefits his majesty)]; invoking other than Allaah; offering slaughtered sacrifice (i.e. animals) to other than Allaah etc. These are affairs of Bidah Al-Mukaffirah (the bidah that is tantamount to disbelief); but we do not make Takfeer of the people who commit this type of Bidah until we establish the proofs against them. That is because some of them (i.e. the people who fall into these affairs) carry doubts and are far away from the era of Prophethood and its light (i.e. guidance). So they fall into the likes these innovations. Rejecting the Ruyah is disbelief; rejecting Allaah’s Uluww is disbelief; the saying that the Qur’aan is created is disbelief-major disbelief; but this person -[who testifies that none has the right to be worshipped except Allaah and that Muhammad is the messenger of Allaah, and he prays, observes fasting, wants paradise and believes in that] -received the doubts of the people of falsehood, so he falls into the likes of these affairs (i.e. these innovations that are tantamount to disbelief). So we say to him, “You have fallen into disbelief and the evidence is this and this, and we clarify for him”. So if Allaah grants him Tawfeeq [i.e. blesses him with knowledge and to act] and he returns to the truth, then all praise is due to Allaah; but if not, we declare him a disbeliever after establishing the proofs against him. As for Bidah Al-Mufassiqah it is other than this (i.e. it is not at the level of that which is tantamount to disbelief)…[ http://www.rabee.net/ar/questions.php?cat=26&id=484 .paraphrased] NB: Takfeer: [i.e.expelling a Muslim from the foldnof Islam] is the job of the upright scholars of Islaam. Read here about the Principles of Takfir: http://www.salafipublications.com/sps/sp.cfm?secID=MNJ&subsecID=MNJ09&loadpage=displaysubsection.cfm

Ref 1: Paraphrased (Majmoo Al-Fataawaa 11/565-566)

قد عرف بالاضطرار من دين الإسلام أن النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم لم يشرع لصالحي أمَّته وعبَّادهم وزهَّادهم أن يجتمعوا على استماع الأبيات الملحنة مع ضرب بالكف أو ضرب بالقضيب أو الدف ، كما لم يبح لأحدٍ أن يخرج عن متابعته واتِّباع ما جاء به من الكتاب والحكمة ، لا في باطن الأمر ولا في ظاهره ، ولا لعامِّي ولا لخاصِّي ، ولكن رخص النبي صلى الله عليه وسلم في أنواعٍ من اللهو في العرس ونحوه ، كما رخَّص للنساء أن يضربن بالدف في الأعراس والأفراح ، وأمَّا الرجال على عهده فلم يكن أحدٌ منهم يضرب بدفٍّ ولا يصفِّق بكفٍّ ، بل قد ثبت عنه في الصحيح أنَّه قال : ” التصفيق للنساء ، والتسبيح للرجال ” و ” لعن المتشبِّهات من النساء بالرجال ، والمتشبهين من الرجال بالنساء ” .
ولما كان الغناء والضرب بالدف والكف مِن عمل النساء كان السلف يسمُّون من يفعل ذلك من الرجال مخنَّثاً ويسمُّون الرجال المغنِّين مخانيثاً ، وهذا مشهورٌ في كلامهم

An Important Affair to Pay Attention to When Quoting or Retweeting Statements of Scholars and Senior Students

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, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Indeed, it is praiseworthy to quote and retweet the scholars, as well as the senior students of knowledge in the East and the West, especially when they speak about issues of Dawah; however, the affair is not about who retweets or quotes the most, or who promotes such and such scholar or elder student the most; rather one of the most imporant affairs we should recall is the statement of Imaam Ahmad [may Allaah have mercy upon him] when he stated: “(There) is nothing equal to knowledge for the one who makes his intention correct (i.e. sincere). So they (i.e. the people) said, ‘And how do (we) make the intention correct (i.e. sincere) O father of Abdullaah?!’ He said, ‘You make an intention to remove ignorance from yourself and others'”. [Aadaab Ash-Sharee’ah’ 2/45 by Ibn Muflih- (rahimahullaah)]

Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadi [may Allaah preserve him] said, “O my brothers! Sincerity is a great affair. It is incumbent upon a Muslim to guard it and take himself to account at every moment of his life. One of the Salaf said, ‘I used to hold that the hadeeth requires a Niyyah [i.e. sincere intention for seeking knowledge of hadeeth], but then I realised that every hadeeth requires an intention. Therefore, when you narrate or speak, do you desire praise from the people or do you desire the Face of Allaah [The Blessed and Exalted]? Do you desire that it is said, ‘He is a scholar; he is intelligent; he is a learned person of sound, precise and robust understanding’ or do you desire the Face of Allaah and to fulfil the responsibility you carry [i.e. knowledge of the religion]. (1)

Finally, on a seperate note, we are also in need of being reminded – in the West – of good manners! The Prophet [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam] said, “I was sent to perfect noble manners”. Al-Allaamah Zayd Bin Haadee Al-Madkhalee [rahimahullaah] said: “This hadeeth is from the Jawaami Al kalim of the Messenger [i.e. a precise statement whose meaning is vast]. In it is proof regarding the importance of good manners and how can that not be the case when it is the fact that the Prophet [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam] said (in another hadeeth), “Righteousness is good character”. Therefore, it is obligated on a believer to have good manners in his relationship with his Lord and in his dealings with the people. His manners should be based on the judgement of the noble Islamic legislation – in speech, deeds, dealings and all his actions. (2)

Al-Allaamah Rabee Bin Haadee al-Madkhalee [hafidhahullaah] said: Knowledge is not merely about studying and obtaining certificates, rather the goal is to acquire sound and precise understanding – sound understanding in affairs of Aqeedah, worship, good manners, good etiquettes and everything related to the life of a believer. It is obligated on the believers to carry out everything related to their lives based on the Book of Allaah and the (authentic) sunnah of Allaah’s Messenger [sallal laahu alayhi wasallam]. The believer performs acts of worship sincerely for the Sake of Allaah because Allaah commanded him to be sincere. [Allaah (The Blessed and Exalted) said]:

وَمَآ أُمِرُوٓاْ إِلَّا لِيَعۡبُدُواْ ٱللَّهَ مُخۡلِصِينَ لَهُ ٱلدِّينَ حُنَفَآءَ وَيُقِيمُواْ ٱلصَّلَوٰةَ وَيُؤۡتُواْ ٱلزَّكَوٰةَ‌ۚ وَذَٲلِكَ دِينُ ٱلۡقَيِّمَةِ

And they were commanded not, but that they should worship Allah, and worship none but Him Alone (abstaining from ascribing partners to Him), and perform As-Salat (Iqamat-as-Salat) and give Zakat: and that is the right religion. [Surah Al-Bayyinah’ Aayah 5] (3)

Shaikh Abdullah Al-Bukhari [hafidhahullaah] advises the students about good manners:
https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2016/03/26/an-important-advice-about-having-good-manners-by-shaikh-abdullah-al-bukhaari/

Careful Deliberation and Sound Verification!
Also be alert, because there are those who play games with the statements of the scholars on twitter. A scholar transmits something whilst intending a general advice or a specific situation in his country, but then another person who harbours rancour – without a justified reason – uses that statement to directly or indirectly belittle people in his country of residence. Imaam Muhammad Ibn Saaleh Al-Uthaymeen [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said: Verification is one of the most important affairs, if not the most important. Verifying what is transmitted from others is an important affair, because sometimes the transmitters harbour evil intentions, so they transmit – intentionally and deliberately – that which will tarnish the reputation of the one they transmit from. And sometimes they do not harbour an evil intention, but they understand something in a manner that is opposite to what is intended by it. Therefore, it is obligatory to verify. So, when the proof (or sound source) of the transmission is established, then the one from whom the statement was transmitted is engaged in a discussion before a judgement is passed as to whether it is a mistake or not. That is because it may become clear to you – by way of discussion – that the one from whom the statement was transmitted is correct. And if not, then what is known is that if a person were to immediately pass a judgement merely based on what he hears, he will transmit things (i.e. statements, views, opinions etc) from some of the scholars – those considered to be the beacons of (Sharee’ah) knowledge – that which the souls will dislike; but when one verifies, contemplates and establishes contact with this Shaikh, the affair will become clarified. (4)

When we come across a general statement of a scholar – either a tweet or quote, being utilised by a person who has won the trust of some of the people but harbours rancour – without any justifified reason – against other seekers of knowledge, we try to get hold of one of the elder teachers to explain, such as the likes of Shaikh Abu Khadeejah, Shaikh Abu Hakeem, Shaikh Abdul Ilaah, Shaikh Uwais At-Taweel, Shaikh Abu Iyaadh, Shaikh Abu Idrees and others.

[Ref 1: Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm’ pages 53-55]

[Ref 2: At-taleeqaatul Maleehah Alaa Silsilah Al-Ahaadeeth As-Saheehah. Vol 1. Page 143. Slightly paraphrased]

[Ref 3: Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm’ pages 72 – 73. Slightly paraphrased]

[Ref 4 Excerpt from Sharh Hilyatil Taalibil Ilm Pages 75-76]