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Author: Abdullah Jallow

Mispronunciation In The Arabic Language – A Brief Fa’idah from Shaikh Fawwaz al-Mad’khali

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, History of Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Pearls of Wisdom, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), The Salaf - Pious Predecessors.

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

فهذا  الحافظ ابن عدي؛ إمام في علل الحديث والجرح والتعديل، صاحب كتاب “الكامل في الضعفاء “، قد  استدرك عليه بعض أهل العلم اللحن في اللغة العربية.

وقال الحافظ أبو عبد الرحمن النسائي ـ رحمه الله ـ أنه لا يعاب اللحن على المحدثين، وذكر أمثلة في ذلك من أئمة في هذا الفن، من بينهم  إسماعيل بن أبي خالد يلحن وسفيان ومالك بن أنس وغيرهم من المحدثين. [الخطيب في الكفاية (ج2ص555)].

كثير من العلماء لا تخلو دروسهم وكتبهم من أخطاء لغوية أو إملائية، حتى أن محققي الكتب ينبهون عليها في الحواشي، لكنها لا تُسقط قدرهم؛ لأن هذه الأخطاء من طبيعة البشر، والكمال لله وحده، ولم يجعلها أهل السنة والجماعة يوماً سبباً للطعن في أهليتهم العلمية.

Al-Hafidh Ibn Adi — is an Imam in ilal al-ḥadith and al jarh wat-tadeel [the science or subject regarding hidden defects in hadith and the science of criticism and commendation of narrators], and the author of Al-Kaamil fee Ad-Ḍu’afaa; however, some of the people of knowledge have pointed out and corrected mispronunciations of his in the Arabic language.

Al-Hafidh Abu Abdir Rahman An-Nasaa’ee, may Allah have mercy on him, stated that the Muhadditheen are not faulted for mispronunciation (linguistic errors). He mentioned examples of that regarding the Imams in this field of hadith, from among them Ismaa’eel ibn Abee Khalid, who had mispronunciations, Sufyan, Malik, and other than them among the Muhadditheen. [Al-Khaṭīb, al-Kifāyah, vol. 2, p. 555]

Many scholars’ lessons and books are not free from linguistic or dictation (spelling errors). Even the verifiers of books give notification of them in the footnotes, but this does not topple their status (i.e. the scholars), because indeed these mistakes are from human nature. Perfection belongs to Allah alone, and Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jama’ah – at any time (or at any point) have not made them (i.e. these mistakes) a reason (or cause) for speaking ill against their competence in knowledge of the Shariah. [Paraphrased]

Source: An Excerpt from the Shaikh’s Telegram Channel 

Food for Thought for Daily Interactions, Including WhatsApp, Telegram, and Similar Platforms

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

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

From Justice to Social Conduct: Knowledge, Age, and Mutual Respect—Food for Thought for Daily Interactions, Including WhatsApp, Telegram, and Similar Platforms

Sahl Bin Abu Hathma and Rafi’ Bin Khadij reported that Abdullah Bin Sahl Bin Zaid and Muhayyisa Bin Mas’ud Bin Zaid went out and as they reached Khaibar they were separated. Then Muhayyisa found Abdullah Bin Sahl having been killed. He buried him, and then came to Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him.. They were Huwayyisa Bin Mas’ud and ‘Abdur Rahman Bin Sahl, and he (the latter one) was the youngest of the people began to speak before his companions (had spoken). So, Allah’s Messenger,  peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “The eldest one (eldest in regard to age should speak)”. So, he kept quiet, and his companions (Muhayyisa and Huwayyisa) began to speak, and he (Abdur-Rahman) spoke along with them and they narrated to Allah’s Messenger the murder of Abdullah Bin Sahl. Then he (the Messenger) said to them, “Are you prepared to take fifty oaths so that you may be entitled (to blood-wit) of your companion (or your man who has murdered)?” They said, “How can we take an oath on a matter which we have not witnessed?” He said: “Then the Jews will exonerate themselves by fifty oaths”. They said, “How can we accept the oaths of people who are unbelievers?” When Allah’s Messenger saw that, he himself paid his blood-wit. [Sahih Muslim 1669]

After three ahadith were quoted – including the above one regarding the murder of Abdullah Bin Sahl, Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baz, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated:

These three ahadith are the same as those before them, in clarification of giving precedence to people of virtue, knowledge, and those of old age over those younger than them, giving concern to the matter by placing them in their deserved position in which Allah has placed them, as has preceded in the statement of the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him,

“The one who is well grounded in Allah’s Book and is distinguished among them in recitation should act as Imam for the people, and if they are equally versed in reciting it, then the one who has most knowledge regarding Sunnah; if they are equal regarding the Sunnah, then the earliest one to emigrate; If they emigrated at the same time, then the oldest one in age. No man must lead another in prayer in latter’s house or where (the latter) has authority, or sit in his place of honour in his house, except that he gives you permission or with his permission”. [1]

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

The apparent context of the hadith is that the three came to Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, to relate the news, so Muhayyisa wanted to speak because he was the one who had the story and knew about it, and Abdur Rahman Bin Sahl did not speak because he was not present, or because he was the youngest of the people, or because the intent was to mention the case without making a claim, otherwise who would have had more right to speak? It would have been Abdur Rahman Bin Sahl, Abdullah’s brother because he is his heir. Muhayyisa and Huwayyisa are cousins ​​of the murdered, but why did Muhayyisa want to speak even though he was lesser than a brother in relationship? This is because he had the story and knew about it. And why did Abdur Rahman not speak? It was either because of his young age or because he was sufficed with the statement of Muhayyisa due to him being the witness of the incident or because the intent was to mention the case and not the claim, otherwise if the intent was the claim, then Abdur Rahmaan Bin Sahl would have been the most entitled to speak, then Huwayyisa and then Muhayyisa”. [2]

The Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “He is not one of us who is not merciful to our young, nor respects the rights of our elders, nor enjoins good, nor forbids evil”. [3]

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercy upon him, 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”. [4]

[1]Paraphrased:https://binbaz.org.sa/audios/2335/128-%D9%85%D9%86-%D8%AD%D8%AF%D9%8A%D8%AB-%D8%A7%D9%86%D8%B7%D9%84%D9%82-%D8%B9%D8%A8%D8%AF-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%84%D9%87-%D8%A8%D9%86-%D8%B3%D9%87%D9%84-%D9%88%D9%85%D8%AD%D9%8A%D8%B5%D8%A9-%D8%A8%D9%86-%D9%85%D8%B3%D8%B9%D9%88%D8%AF-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%89-%D8%AE%D9%8A%D8%A8%D8%B1-%D9%88%D9%87%D9%8A-%D9%8A%D9%88%D9%85%D9%89%D8%B0-%D8%B5%D9%84%D8%AD-%D9%81%D8%AA%D9%81%D8%B1%D9%82%D8%A7 ]

[2]https://alathar.net/home/esound/index.php?op=codevi&coid=33690

[3]Sunan at-Tirmidhee 1921]

[4]An Excerpt from Marhaban Yaa Talib Al-Ilm. page 123

[6] Justice For All

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

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

Allah, The Most High, said:

فلذلك فادع واستقم كما أمرت ولا تتبع أهواءهم وقل آمنت بما أنزل الله من كتاب وأمرت لأعدل بينكم الله ربنا وربكم لنا أعمالنا ولكم أعمالكم لا حجة بيننا وبينكم الله يجمع بيننا وإليه المصير

So unto this (religion of Islam, alone and this Qur’an) then invite (people) (O Muhammad ), and Istaqim [(i.e. stand firm and straight on Islamic Monotheism by performing all that is ordained by Allah (good deeds, etc.), and by abstaining from all that is forbidden by Allah (sins and evil deeds, etc.)], as you are commanded, and follow not their desires but say: “I believe in whatsoever Allah has sent down of the Book [all the holy Books, this Qur’an and the Books of the old from the Taurat (Torah), or the Injeel (Gospel) or the Pages of Ibrahim (Abraham)] and I am commanded to do justice among you, Allah is our Lord and your Lord. For us our deeds and for you your deeds. There is no dispute between us and you. Allah will assemble us (all), and to Him is the final return. [Ash-Shuraa. 15]

وَأُمِرۡتُ لِأَعۡدِلَ بَيۡنَكُمُ‌ۖ

And I am commanded to do justice among you.

Meaning, when passing judgement regarding that which you have differed between yourselves. Therefore, your enmity and hatred does not prevent me from judging with justice between you. And from justice is that when judging between people who make different statements – amongst the people of the Scripture and others – one accepts what they possess of truth and reject what they possess of falsehood.

ٱللَّهُ رَبُّنَا وَرَبُّكُمۡ‌ۖ لَنَآ أَعۡمَـٰلُنَا وَلَكُمۡ أَعۡمَـٰلُڪُمۡ‌ۖ لَا حُجَّةَ بَيۡنَنَا وَبَيۡنَكُمُ‌ۖ ٱللَّهُ يَجۡمَعُ بَيۡنَنَا‌ۖ وَإِلَيۡهِ ٱلۡمَصِيرُ

Allah is our Lord and your Lord. For us our deeds and for you your deeds. There is no dispute between us and you. Allah will assemble us (all), and to Him is the final return.

لَا حُجَّةَ بَيۡنَنَا وَبَيۡنَكُمُ‌ۖ

There is no dispute between us and you.

Meaning, there is no dispute between us and you after the realities have been manifested, and after the clear distinction between truth and falsehood, and after the clear distinction between guidance and misguidance, there is no room for debate because the goal behind debate is to distinguish between right and wrong, so that the one to be guided is guided and the proofs established against the misguided one.

ٱللَّهُ يَجۡمَعُ بَيۡنَنَا‌ۖ وَإِلَيۡهِ ٱلۡمَصِيرُ

Allah will assemble us (all), and to Him is the final return.

[An Excerpt from Tafsir As-Sadi]

Tabdee without proof – By Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymin

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Contemporary Issues, Featured, Fitnah, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Refutations, Scholars of Islam, Sin, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

السائل : جزاك الله خيرا يقول السائل : لا يحكم على معين بكفر أو فسق إلا بعد إقامة الحجة والسؤال : هل التبديع مثل التكفير والتفسيق أي يحتاج لإقامة الحجة ؟
الشيخ : نعم نعم كل عيب يوصف به الإنسان فإنه يحتاج إلى ثبوت ما يقتضيه هذا العيب يعني ما يوجب هذا العيب أما أن نصف كل واحد بأنه مبتدع كل واحد بأنه ضال بدون دليل هذا لا يجوز نعم

Questioner: May Allah reward you with good. The questioner asks: “The judgement of Kufr (disbelief) is not issued against a specific individual, nor Fisq (declaring someone sinful), except after establishing proof. Is Tabdīʿ (declaring someone an innovator in the religion) like Takfīr and Tafsīq, in that it also requires establishing the proof?”

The Shaikh: Yes, yes. Every fault (blameworthy trait) with which a person is described requires verification of what justifies attributing that fault to him—meaning what necessitates that fault. As for describing (labeling) everyone an innovator in the religion, (or) misguided,  without evidence, this is not permissible. (Paraphrased)

الشيخ محمد بن صالح العثيمين-فتاوى الحرم النبوي-64b-7
https://alathar.net/home/esound/index.php?op=codevi&coid=117138

Placing Things Where They Don’t Belong: The Reality of Dhulm

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Articles, Basics, Contemporary Issues, Featured, Fitnah, Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Shirk, Sin.

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

Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan, may Allah preserve him, said:

What is Dhulm -[injustice or oppression?] Dhulm is of three types according to the people of knowledge (i.e. the scholars):

Firstly: The greatest of them is shirk and why is shirk referred as Dhulm? This is because the basis of injustice is to place something in other than its rightful place. And the meaning of shirk is to direct acts of worship to other than its rightful place and this is the greatest injustice. Because when they (i.e. the people of shirk) direct acts of worship to other than its rightful place – to those who are not deserving of it, they equate the created (beings) to the Creator, a weak one (i.e. a created being) to Al-Qawee [The One Perfect in Strength (i.e. Allah)], who is not unable to do anything. Therefore, is there any greater injustice after this?

The second type of Dhulm is committed when a person oppresses himself by committing sins. A sinner oppresses himself because he exposes himself to punishment, even though it is incumbent upon him to save himself – place himself in an appropriate situation – and that is to obey Allah.

The third type of Dhulm is committed when a person oppresses others by taking their wealth (unlawfully), backbiting them, spreading tales about them, stealing their wealth, or violating their honour through backbiting, tale carrying, slander, or shedding their blood through unlawful killing, beating, inflicting injuries, degrading them without right.

Source: An Excerpt from I’aanah Al-Mustafeed Bi-Sharhi Kitab At-Tawheed’ page 55-56

 

The Licentious Disputant or Arguer

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Fitnah, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Sin.

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

“When he disputes, he behaves in a sinful (excessive immoral manner)”. [1]

Meaning of Fujur [extreme immoral behaviour] is that a person deliberately exits the truth until turns truth into falsehood and falsehood into truth. This is from that which leads to lying, as the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Beware of lying, for lying leads to Fujur (immoral behaviour), and Fujur leads to the Fire.”

And in the Sahihayn (Al-Bukhari and Muslim), the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “The most hated of men to Allah is the one who is the most quarrelsome”.

So, if a person, when disputing -whether in matters of religion or worldly affairs-has the ability to support falsehood and make it appear to the listener as truth, weakening the truth and presenting it as falsehood, this is one of the most repugnant prohibitions and one of the foulest traits of hypocrisy. In Sunan Abee Dawud, Ibn Umar, may Allah be pleased with him and his father, reported from the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, who said: “Whoever argues in support of falsehood while knowing it will remain under Allah’s wrath until he stops.” [2]

When he disputes, he lies in his disputation, goes into excess in lying, immoral behaviour, and wrong doing (injustice, oppression) due to the absence or weakness of his Iman. Fujur means increasing in sin and manifesting it — we ask Allah for well-being — like the bursting forth of water. He increases in lying, transgression against his opponent, stubborn, and excessive in his disputation due to his weak Iman or the absence of his Iman. [3]

O student of knowledge! It is obligated to you to abandon (blameworthy) debate and argumentation because debate and argumentation is a means to cutting off the path to what is correct, makes a person speak to give the upper hand to himself. Even if the truth is made clear to him, you will find him either rejecting it or misconstruing the truth -out of disliking it- to give himself the upper hand and compel his opponent to accept his statement. Therefore, if you notice (blameworthy) debate and argumentation from your brother when the truth is very clear, but he does not follow it, flee from him like you would flee from a lion, and say, “I do not have anything other than the truth I have mentioned to you”. [4]

We ask Allah:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ مُنْكَرَاتِ الأَخْلاَقِ وَالأَعْمَالِ وَالأَهْوَاءِ

 O Allah! I seek refuge in You from evil character, evil actions, and evil desires. [5]

 

[1] Al-Bukhari 34

[2] Jāmiʿ al-ʿUlūm wa al-Ḥikam (1/432)

[3]https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/13138/%D8%B4%D8%B1%D8%AD-%D8%AD%D8%AF%D9%8A%D8%AB-%D8%A7%D9%8A%D8%A9-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%85%D9%86%D8%A7%D9%81%D9%82-%D8%AB%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%AB, paraphrased

[4] Sharh Hilyah Talib Al-Ilm page 246

[5] Sahih at-Tirmidhi 3591

Finding Purpose Through Remembrance and Worship

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

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

The Three Pillars of Gratitude

Allah [The Most High] says:

لِتَسْتَوُوا عَلَىٰ ظُهُورِهِ ثُمَّ تَذْكُرُوا نِعْمَةَ رَبِّكُمْ إِذَا اسْتَوَيْتُمْ عَلَيْهِ وَتَقُولُوا سُبْحَانَ الَّذِي سَخَّرَ لَنَا هَٰذَا وَمَا كُنَّا لَهُ مُقْرِنِينَ
وَإِنَّا إِلَىٰ رَبِّنَا لَمُنقَلِبُونَ

So that you may mount on their backs, and then may remember the Favour of your Lord when you mount thereon, and say: “Glory to Him Who has subjected this to us, and we could never have it (by our efforts). And verily, to Our Lord, we indeed are to return!” [Surah Az-Zukhruf. Ayaat 13-14]

Imam As-Sadi [may Allah have mercy upon him] said:

The Ayah highlights the three pillars of gratitude, which encompass the acknowledgment of Allah’s blessings, openly expressing gratitude for them, and utilising these blessings to engage in acts of worship solely for the sake of Allah.

Regarding Allah’s statement:

ثُمَّ تَذْكُرُوا نِعْمَةَ رَبِّكُمْ إِذَا اسْتَوَيْتُمْ

And then may remember the favour of your Lord when you mount thereon.

This specific mention is intended to draw attention to the time when a person enjoys those favours because blessings intoxicate many people, leading them to heedlessness, evil, and ungratefulness. Therefore, this situation where Allah commanded (us to remember Him) is a remedy for this destructive ailment. When a person remembers that they are surrounded by Allah’s blessings and that everything comes from Allah and not from oneself, but rather blessings are facilitated by Allah and its means are from Him, one then submits to Allah, humbles himself, thanks and praises Allah, and he is bestowed continuous blessings.

Regarding Allāh’s statement of Allah:

وَإِنَّا إِلَىٰ رَبِّنَا لَمُنقَلِبُونَ

And verily, to Our Lord, we indeed are to return.

This serves as an acknowledgement of recompense (in the Afterlife) and preparing for because the objective behind these favours is to assist a servant of Allah in carrying out the obligations commanded by Allah. [(1)]

Remembrance of Allah and Gratitude

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

Allah [The Most High] said:

فَٱذۡكُرُونِىٓ أَذۡكُرۡكُمۡ وَٱشۡڪُرُواْ لِى وَلَا تَكۡفُرُونِ

Therefore, remember Me (by praying, glorifying, etc.). I will remember you, and be grateful to Me (for My countless Favours on you) and never be ungrateful to Me]. [Al-Baqarah. Ayah 152]

The intent behind Dhikr is not merely to remember (Allah) with one’s tongue, rather it is remembrance with the heart and the tongue. Remembrance of Allah includes remembering Him by His Names and Attributes, His commandments, His prohibitions and His Speech. This necessitates that a person should have knowledge and awareness of Allah (I), belief in Allah, belief in Allah’s Perfect and Lofty Attributes, as well as (constantly) praising Allah with various types of praise [i.e. based on what Allah has legislated in the authentic texts of the Shariah and not by way of Bidah]; and this cannot be accomplished except through Tawheed [i.e. singling Allah out in His Lordship, Names and Attributes, and devoting all acts of worship to Allaah alone]. True Remembrance of Allah necessitates all of this, as well as remembering the blessings and favours, which Allah has bestowed upon His creatures and His kindness to them.

As for Shukr [i.e. to be grateful or thankful to Allah], it is to act in obedience to Allah and seek to draw close to Him through those apparent (deeds of the limbs) and (deeds of the heart) that are beloved to Him. The religion is based on these two: remembrance of Allah, which necessitates having knowledge and awareness of Allah, and being grateful to Him, which necessitates obedience to Him through acts of worship and (refraining from disobedience). This is the purpose behind the creation of the Jinn, mankind, the heavens and the earth- the reason for which reward and punishment are determined, (the reason for which) Allah revealed the Books and sent the Messengers. It is the truth for which the heavens, the earth and what is between them were created, and what is in opposition to it is falsehood, such as the assumption held by the enemies of Allah that there is no purpose behind the creation [free is Allah from what they attribute to Him]. Allah [The Most High] says:

وَمَا خَلَقۡنَا ٱلسَّمَآءَ وَٱلۡأَرۡضَ وَمَا بَيۡنَہُمَا بَـٰطِلاً۬‌ۚ ذَٲلِكَ ظَنُّ ٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ‌ۚ

And We created not the heaven and the earth and all that is between them without purpose! That is the assumption of those who disbelieve!]

Allah [The Most High] said:

وَمَا خَلَقۡنَا ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَٱلۡأَرۡضَ وَمَا بَيۡنَہُمَا لَـٰعِبِينَ
مَا خَلَقۡنَـٰهُمَآ إِلَّا بِٱلۡحَقِّ

And We created not the heavens and the earth, and all that is between them, for mere play; We created them not except with truth (i.e. to examine and test those who are obedient and those who are disobedient and then reward the obedient ones and punish the disobedient ones).

Allah [The Most High] said:

وَمَا خَلَقۡنَا ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَٱلۡأَرۡضَ وَمَا بَيۡنَہُمَآ إِلَّا بِٱلۡحَقِّ‌ۗ وَإِنَّ ٱلسَّاعَةَ لَأَتِيَةٌ۬‌ۖ

And We created not the heavens and the earth and all that is between them except with truth, and the Hour is surely coming…

Allah [The Most High] said:

مَا خَلَقَ ٱللَّهُ ذَٲلِكَ إِلَّا بِٱلۡحَقِّ‌ۚ

Allah did not create this but in truth]. Allah [The Most High] said: Allah [The Most High] said:

أَيَحۡسَبُ ٱلۡإِنسَـٰنُ أَن يُتۡرَكَ سُدًى

Does man think that he will be left Suda [neglected without being punished or rewarded for the obligatory duties enjoined by his Lord (Allah) on him]?

Allah [The Most High] said:

أَفَحَسِبۡتُمۡ أَنَّمَا خَلَقۡنَـٰكُمۡ عَبَثً۬ا وَأَنَّكُمۡ إِلَيۡنَا لَا تُرۡجَعُونَ

Did you think that We had created you in play (without any purpose), and that you would not be brought back to Us?]

Allah [The Most High] said:

وَمَا خَلَقۡتُ ٱلۡجِنَّ وَٱلۡإِنسَ إِلَّا لِيَعۡبُدُونِ

And I (Allah) created not the jinns and humans except they should worship Me (Alone)

Allah [The Most High] said:

ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِى خَلَقَ سَبۡعَ سَمَـٰوَٲتٍ۬ وَمِنَ ٱلۡأَرۡضِ مِثۡلَهُنَّ يَتَنَزَّلُ ٱلۡأَمۡرُ بَيۡنَہُنَّ لِتَعۡلَمُوٓاْ أَنَّ ٱللَّهَ عَلَىٰ كُلِّ شَىۡءٍ۬ قَدِيرٌ۬ وَأَنَّ ٱللَّهَ قَدۡ أَحَاطَ بِكُلِّ شَىۡءٍ عِلۡمَۢا

It is Allah Who has created seven heavens and of the earth the like thereof (i.e. seven). His Command descends between them (heavens and earth), that you may know that Allah has power over all things and that Allah surrounds (comprehends) all things in (His) Knowledge.

Allah [The Most High] said:

جَعَلَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلۡكَعۡبَةَ ٱلۡبَيۡتَ ٱلۡحَرَامَ قِيَـٰمً۬ا لِّلنَّاسِ وَٱلشَّہۡرَ ٱلۡحَرَامَ وَٱلۡهَدۡىَ وَٱلۡقَلَـٰٓٮِٕدَ‌ۚ ذَٲلِكَ لِتَعۡلَمُوٓاْ أَنَّ ٱللَّهَ يَعۡلَمُ مَا فِى ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَمَا فِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ وَأَنَّ ٱللَّهَ بِكُلِّ شَىۡءٍ عَلِيمٌ

Allah has made the Ka’bah, the Sacred House, an asylum of security and Hajj and ‘Umrah (pilgrimage) for mankind, and also the Sacred Month and the animals of offerings and the garlanded (people or animals, etc. marked with the garlands on their necks made from the outer part of the stem of the Makkah trees for their security), that you may know that Allah knows all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth, and that Allah is the All-Knower of each and everything.

Therefore, based on what has (already) been mentioned, it has been established that the purpose behind the creation and the Command is so that Allah is remembered and thanked. Allah is to be remembered and not forgotten, and He should be thanked and not shown ingratitude. Allah [Glorified be He and free is He from all imperfections] acknowledges the one who remembers Him, and He is Ready to appreciate good deeds and to recompense the one who is grateful to Him. Remembrance of Allah is the reason Allah acknowledges the one who does so. (II) Being grateful to Allah is the reason why a person is given an increase in blessings and favours. (III) Remembrance of Allah is to be carried out with the heart and tongue; gratitude is to be carried out with one’s heart- out of love for Allah and constantly turning to Him in repentance and obedience with true faith [Islamic Monotheism]. Extolling and praising Him is to be carried out with one’s tongue and being obedient to Him (by performing acts of obedience). [2]

We ask Allah:

اللَّهُمَّ أَعِنِّي عَلَى ذِكْرِكَ، وَشُكْرِكَ، وَحُسْنِ عِبَادَتِكَ

O Allah, help me remember You, thank You, and worship You in an excellent manner]. [Saheeh Sunan Abee Dawud 1522]

Recalling Allah’s Favours and Not Boasting

Allah [The Exalted] says:

وَأَمَّا بِنِعْمَةِ رَبِّكَ فَحَدِّثْ

And as for the favour of your Lord (in granting you Prophethood, the Qurʾān and all other bounties), then narrate it (to others)]. [3]

Imam As-Sadi [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “This encompasses both blessings from a religious and worldly perspective. It is expressing gratitude to Allah for these blessings and mentioning them specifically if there is a benefit in doing so. Even though one can speak generally about Allah’s blessings because doing so encourages one to be thankful and fosters a sense of love for (Allah) in the hearts of those who receive His blessings. This is because the hearts are naturally inclined towards those who treat them kindly”. [4]

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

The difference between speaking of Allah’s blessings and being boastful about them is that the speaker regarding the blessing (i.e. the one who is not boasting) is making a mention of the Attributes of the Bestower (i.e. Allah), His perfect generosity and benevolence- praising Allah by manifesting the blessings and speaking of them, thanking Allah, and making known all that Allah has bestowed. The speaker intends to make known the Attributes of Allah, praising Allah with love and extolling Him, inspiring the soul to seek (things) from Allah alone, and hoping for (His favours), thus he has a fervent desire (to attain the Love and favours of) Allah by displaying Allah blessings, spreading them, and speaking of them. As for boasting about blessings, it is that one uses them to become arrogant towards the people and to show them that he is nobler and loftier in status than them, enslaves their hearts, and attracts them to himself so that they glorify him and be at his service. [5]

Pursuing Virtuous Leadership or Self-aggrandisement

Allah said:

وَٱلَّذِينَ يَقُولُونَ رَبَّنَا هَبۡ لَنَا مِنۡ أَزۡوَٲجِنَا وَذُرِّيَّـٰتِنَا قُرَّةَ أَعۡيُنٍ۬ وَٱجۡعَلۡنَا لِلۡمُتَّقِينَ إِمَامًا

And those who say: “Our Lord! Bestow on us from our wives and our offspring who will be the comfort of our eyes, and make us leaders for the pious. [Al-Furqan. 74]

Imaam Ibn Al-Qayyim [may Allah have mercy upon him] said:

So, they ask Allah to grant them the comfort of the eye by making their wives and offspring obedient to Him, and to grant them happiness in their hearts due to being followed by the righteous in obedience and servitude to Allah. That is because a trustworthy leader in the religion co-operates with (others) in obedience (to Allah and His Messenger), and that is to call them to (sound) leadership in the religion, whose foundation is patience and certainty, as Allah [The Most High] said:

وَجَعَلۡنَا مِنۡہُمۡ أَٮِٕمَّةً۬ يَہۡدُونَ بِأَمۡرِنَا لَمَّا صَبَرُواْ‌ۖ وَڪَانُواْ بِـَٔايَـٰتِنَا يُوقِنُونَ

And We made from among them (Children of Israel), leaders, giving guidance under Our Command when they were patient and used to believe with certainty in Our Ayat (proofs, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.).

Therefore, in their supplication -[in Al-Furqan Ayah 74]- to Allah that He makes them leaders of the righteous people is that Allah guides them, grants them success, bless them with beneficial knowledge and righteous actions–outwardly and inwardly–without which (sound) leadership in the religion cannot be achieved. This is different from (solely) seeking leadership because its seekers hasten to obtain it to achieve their goals, exaltedness in the earth, enslavement of the hearts to them, attachment to them and aiding them in all their goals, while they are exalted and everyone subservient to them. This pursuit of leadership brings about corruption, which none can evaluate except Allah, such as rebellion, envy, transgression, enmity, oppression, trials, being ardent in defending oneself at the expense of violating the rights of Allah, exalting those despised by Allah and belittling those honoured by Allah. [6]

We ask Allah:
اللَّهُمَّ أَصْلِحْ لِي دِينِي الَّذِي هُوَ عِصْمَةُ أَمْرِي
وَأَصْلِحْ لِي دُنْيَايَ الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَاشِي
وَأَصْلِحْ لِي آخِرَتِي الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَادِي
وَاجْعَلِ الْحَيَاةَ زِيَادَةً لِي فِي كُلِّ خَيْرٍ
وَاجْعَلِ الْمَوْتَ رَاحَةً لِي مِنْ كُلِّ شَرٍّ

O Allah! Rectify my religion for me, which is the safeguard of my affairs; rectify my worldly [affairs], wherein is my livelihood; and rectify my Afterlife to which is my return, and make life for me [as a means of] increase in every good and make death for me as a rest from every evil. [7]

———————————————-

Footnotes:

(I): Knowledge and Awareness of Allaah: Shaikh Uthaymeen [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, ’ Marifatullaah” – Knowledge and awareness of Allaah, the Mighty and Majestic, with the heart, with such knowledge and awareness that it makes the person accept whatever He has prescribed and laid down, and causes him to submit to that, and to judge by the Prescribed Laws (Sharee’ah) which His Messenger Muhammad came with. The servant increases in knowledge and awareness of His Lord by considering the clear signs pertaining to the deen found in the book of Allaah, the Mighty and Majestic, and in the Sunnah of His Messenger, and also by considering the signs which Allaah has provided for us in the creation. So whenever a person examines and considers these signs he will increase in his knowledge and awareness of His creator and His God, who alone has the right to all his worship. Allaah, the Mighty and Majestic, says “And on the earth, there are signs for those with certain belief, and also in your own selves. Will you not then consider?” [Soorah adh Dhaariyaat: 20-21] [Translated by Ustaadh Abu Talhah Dawud Burbank (may Allaah grant him and his wife abundant mercy…Aameen)]

(II): [فَٱذۡكُرُونِىٓ أَذۡكُرۡكُمۡ وَٱشۡڪُرُواْ لِى وَلَا تَكۡفُرُونِ – Therefore, remember Me (by praying, glorifying, etc.). I will remember you, and be grateful to Me (for My countless Favours on you) and never be ungrateful to Me]: Ibn Abbaas and Ibn Jubayr said that this Aayah means, ”Remember Me by obeying Me and I [Allaah] will remember you by granting you My Maghfirah. [Zaadul Maseer Fee Ilmit-Tafseer’by Imaam Ibnul Jawzi. Publisher: Daar Ibn Hazm. 1st Edition 1424AH (2002)]

Al-Maghfirah: It necessitates that Allaah will protect you from the evil consequences of your sins, accept [your deeds, repentance etc], grant you His pleasure and favours, show you kindness and generosity etc. [Majmoo Al-Fataawaa 14/140]

(III): [And be grateful to Me (for My countless Favours on you) and never be ungrateful to Me]: Imaam Ibnul Qayyim said, ”And being grateful to Allaah is the reason behind which a person is given an increase in blessings and favours.” [ Al-Fawaa’id’ page 192-194]. Question: What are some of the evil consequences if a person persists upon disobedience, whilst he or she receives more blessings and favours from Allaah? Answer: Allaah [The Most High] said:

وَالَّذِينَ كَذَّبُوا بِآيَاتِنَا سَنَسْتَدْرِجُهُم مِّنْ حَيْثُ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ
وَأُمْلِي لَهُمْ ۚ إِنَّ كَيْدِي مَتِينٌ

Those who reject Our Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), We shall gradually seize them with punishment in ways they perceive not. And I respite them; certainly My Plan is strong. [سَنَسْتَدْرِجُهُم – We shall gradually seize them with punishment] – by granting them plentiful provision and respite until they think that they will neither be taken to task for their disobedience nor punished, so they increase in disbelief and transgression, and evil upon evil. And through this their punishment is increased and multiplied, so they harm themselves in ways they perceive not. This is why Allah said:

[إِنَّ كَيْدِي مَتِينٌ -certainly My Plan is strong]. [8]

[1] An Excerpt from “Fataawa As-Sa’diyyah” page. 61

[2] An Excerpt from ‘Al-Fawaa’id’ page 192-194. slightly paraphrased

[3] https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/sura/93/11

[4] Tafseer Sadi.

[5] Ar-Rooh 312

[6] Ar-Rooh pages 487-489

[7] Saheeh Muslim Number: 2720]: https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2020/12/29/o-allaah-rectify-my-religion-for-me-which-the-safeguard-of-my-affairs-a-tremendous-supplication/

[8] An Excerpt from Tafseer As-Sadi

Flee to Allah!

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Featured, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Repentance, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

فَفِرُّوا إِلَى اللَّهِ ۖ إِنِّي لَكُم مِّنْهُ نَذِيرٌ مُّبِينٌ

So flee to Allāh. Verily, I am to you from Him a clear warner. [Adh-Dhariyat 50]

Imam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

The reality of fleeing is to get away from one thing to another thing, and it is two types: the escape of the blessed and the escape of the wretched.

The escape of the blessed is to flee to Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, and the escape of the wretched is to flee from Allah and not to Him. As for fleeing to Allah, this is the fleeing (to Him) by Him allies. Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him and his father, said regarding this Ayah:

[فَفِرُّوٓا۟ إِلَى ٱللَّهِ – So flee to Allah]:

Meaning, flee from (Allah’s punishment) and flee to Him (for protection) through obedience.

Sahl Bin Abdillah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Flee from other than Allah to Allah”.

Others (i.e. other scholars) said:

Flee from Allah’s punishment (i.e. by keeping away from disobedience) to His reward through (sound) Iman and obedience. [1]

Imam As-Sadi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

When He (Allah) called His servants to reflect upon His signs that necessitate fear of Him based on knowledge regarding His Greatness and to constantly turn to Him through (submission, obedience and repentance), He then commanded that which is the goal behind it, namely, to flee to Him; meaning: (a person) – outwardly and inwardly – flees from what Allah hates and toward – inwardly and outwardly – what Allah loves. Flee from Jahl to ilm, from Kufr to Iman, from disobedience to obedience, and from heedlessness to the remembrance of Allah.

Whoever perfects these matters has perfected (their adherence) to the entire religion. What was feared is removed from him, and he attains the utmost goal and desire.

Allah referred returning to Him a “flight” because turning to anything other than Him is (accompanied) by various fears and harms, whereas turning to Him is (accompanied) by all kinds of beloved things, safety, joy, happiness, and success. Thus, a servant (of Allah) flees from Allah’s decree to Allah’s decree. Everything you fear, you flee from it towards Allah, The Most High, and depending on the level of one’s fear of Allah, the greater the fleeing to Him.

ۖ إِنِّي لَكُم مِّنْهُ نَذِيرٌ مُّبِينٌ

Indeed, I am to you from Him a clear warner.

Meaning: I warn you of the punishment of Allah and make the warning clear and evident. [2]

[1] The Heart’s Three Solid Pillars In The Path of Worship: Love, Fear, and Hope

[1] An Excerpt from “Madarij As-Salikeen”. 1/383. Publisher: Daar Mannaar 1st Edition. (1424AH- 2003)

[2] An Excerpt from Tafsir As-Sadi. Slightly paraphrased.

[2] Exalt Allah and His Shariah First and Foremost

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Contemporary Issues, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Allah, The Most High, said:

مَا قَدَرُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ حَقَّ قَدْرِهِۦٓ إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ لَقَوِىٌّ عَزِيزٌ

They have not estimated Allah His Rightful Estimate; Verily, Allah is Al-Qawiy, Al-Azeez. [Al-Hajj 74]

Al- Qawiy: The One Perfect in Strength. The One completely able to do anything. None can overcome Him. None can repel His decrees.

Al-Azeez: The Invincible. The Almighty One Whom nothing can overcome. The One Mighty in vengeance when He punishes His enemies. The All-Powerful One Who overcomes all, and before Whose Might all submit, and Who has no need of anyone. [1]

Imam Ash-Shatibi, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated:

Know that Allah has established this Shariah as proof against the creation (humankind and jinn) – the old and young alike, the obedient and the disobedient, the righteous and the wicked. He did not specify the proof against anyone in exclusion of another one. Also, all the other revealed laws were established as proof against all the nations to whom they were revealed. The Shariah is the judge- in general, and specifically; the judge on all those who have reached the age of responsibility. It is the path attached to (what Allah has ordained) and it is the Greatest Guide. Have you not heard the statement of Allah, The Most High:

وَكَذَٲلِكَ أَوۡحَيۡنَآ إِلَيۡكَ رُوحً۬ا مِّنۡ أَمۡرِنَاۚ مَا كُنتَ تَدۡرِى مَا ٱلۡكِتَـٰبُ وَلَا ٱلۡإِيمَـٰنُ وَلَـٰكِن جَعَلۡنَـٰهُ نُورً۬ا نَّہۡدِى بِهِۦ مَن نَّشَآءُ مِنۡ عِبَادِنَاۚ وَإِنَّكَ لَتَہۡدِىٓ إِلَىٰ صِرَٲطٍ۬ مُّسۡتَقِيمٍ۬

And thus We have sent to you (O Muhammad) Ruhan (an Inspiration, and a Mercy) of Our Command. You knew not what is the Book, nor what is Faith? But We have made it (this Qur’an) a light wherewith We guide whosoever of Our slaves We will. And verily, you (O Muhammad) are indeed guiding (mankind) to the Straight Path (i.e. Allah’s religion of Islamic Monotheism). [Ash-Shura 52]

He (the Prophet) – peace and blessings of Allah be upon him- was the first to be guided to the Book and Iman, and then those who followed him. The Book is the Guide and also the Sunnah that was revealed to him explains that guidance (i.e. the Sunnah and the Qur’an explain each other). All the creation (mankind and Jinn) are guided through it. Therefore, when this is the case that the Shariah is worthy of being a decisive proof against them and a beacon by way of which they are guided to the truth, their nobility is determined by the extent to which they embrace its rulings- through acting upon them in speech, belief, and deeds– and not merely due to the level of their intellects or their nobility amongst their people. That is because Allah, The Most High, has determined nobility through Taqwa and no other than it. Allah, The Most High, says: [إِنَّ أَڪۡرَمَكُمۡ عِندَ ٱللَّهِ أَتۡقَٮٰكُمۡۚ- Verily, the most honourable of you with Allah is that (believer) who has At-Taqwa] [49:13] [2]

[1]Source: “Names and Attributes of Allah” By Shaikh Abu Talhah, Dawud Burbank – may Allah have mercy upon him and his wife.
[16/04, 22:10] Abdullah:

[2] Al-I’tisam 3/434

[5] Justice For All

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Contemporary Issues, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

إِنَّ اللَّهَ يَأْمُرُكُمْ أَنْ تُؤَدُّوا الْأَمَانَاتِ إِلَى أَهْلِهَا وَإِذَا حَكَمْتُمْ بَيْنَ النَّاسِ أَنْ تَحْكُمُوا بِالْعَدْلِ إِنَّ اللَّهَ نِعِمَّا يَعِظُكُمْ بِهِ إِنَّ اللَّهَ كَانَ سَمِيعًا بَصِيرًا

Verily! Allah commands that you should render back the trusts to those to whom they are due; and that, when you judge between men, you judge with justice. Verily, how excellent is the teaching which He (Allah) gives you! Truly, Allah is Ever All-Hearer, All-Seer. [An-Nisaa 58]

This includes judgement between them in matters related to [الدماء – homicide, killing, physical violence], wealth, and honour, whether minor or major; (includes) relatives, non-relatives, the righteous, the unrighteous, an ally or enemy.

The intent behind justice Allah has commanded to be upheld is that which Allah has ordained through the speech of His Messenger regarding divine ordainments and rulings, and this necessitates knowledge of justice in order to judge by it.

And since these are good and just commands, He said:

إِنَّ اللَّهَ نِعِمَّا يَعِظُكُمْ بِهِ إِنَّ اللَّهَ كَانَ سَمِيعًا بَصِيرًا

Verily, how excellent is the teaching which He (Allah) gives you! Truly, Allah is Ever All-Hearer, All-Seer.

This is praise from Allah for His commands and prohibitions due to their inclusion of the welfare of the two abodes (the worldly life and after life) and repelling their harms. This is because the one who legislator them is the All-Hearing, the All-Seeing; nothing is hidden from Him, and He knows the welfare of His servants in ways they do not.

An Excerpt from Tafseer As-Sadi.