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Gratitude and Remembrance of Allah, Recalling Allah’s Favours or Fluanting, Pursuing Virtuous Leadership or Self-aggrandisement

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, 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 saying: [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 the 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]. [Surah 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] says:
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] says: [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: Allaah [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] says: [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] says: [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] says:
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] says:
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 saying: [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 or Flaunting

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 says:

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. [Surah Al-Furqan. Ayah 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] says:

[ 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 Surah Al-Furqaan 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

[1] Trials of Life- [Some issues we didn’t contemplate thoroughly – during our youth – in our religious and worldly affairs, and during serious disagreement between close ones]

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

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

SUPPLICATION

A Tremendous Supplication After Tashahud and Before Tasleem:

اللَّهُمَّ بِعِلْمِكَ الْغَيْبَ وَقُدْرَتِكَ عَلَى الْخَلْقِ أَحْيِنِي مَا عَلِمْتَ الْحَيَاةَ خَيْراً لِي وَتَوَفَّنِي إِذَا عَلِمْتَ الْوَفَاةَ خَيْراً لِي، اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ خَشْيَتَكَ فِي الْغَيْبِ وَالشَّهَادَةِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ كَلِمَةَ الْحَقِّ فِي الرِّضَا وَالْغَضَبِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ الْقَصْدَ فِي الْغِنَى وَالْفَقْرِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ نَعِيماً لَا يَنْفَذُ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ قُرَّةَ عَيْنٍ لَا تَنْقَطِعُ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ الرِّضِا بَعْدَ الْقَضَاءِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ بَرْدَ الْعَيْشِ بَعْدَ الْمَوْتِ، وَأَسْأَلُكَ لَذَّةَ النَّظَرِ إِلَى وَجْهِكَ وَالشَّوْقَ إِلَى لِقَائِكَ فِي غَيْرِ ضَرَّاءَ مُضِرَّةٍ وَلَا فِتْنَةٍ مُضِلَّةٍ، اللَّهُمَّ زَيِّنَّا بِزِينَةِ الْإِيمَانِ
وَاجْعَلْنَا هُدَاةً مُهْتَدِينَ

O Allah! By Your Knowledge of the unseen and by Your Power over creation, let me live if life is good for me, and let me die if death is good for me; O Allah! I ask You to grant me (the blessing of having) fear of You in private and public, and I ask You (to make me utter) a statement of truth in times of contentment and anger, and I ask You for moderation when in a state of wealth and poverty, and I ask you for blessings that never ceases, and I ask You for the coolness of my eye that never ends, and I ask You (to make me pleased) after (Your) decree; and I ask You for a life of (ease, comfort, tranquillity, etc) after death; I ask You for the delight of looking at Your Face (i.e. in the Hereafter) and yearning to meet You without any harm and misleading trials (coming upon me). O Allah! Adorn us with the adornment of Iman, and make us (from those who are) guided and guiding (others). [1]

اللَّهُمَّ بِعِلْمِكَ الْغَيْبَ وَقُدْرَتِكَ عَلَى الْخَلْقِ أَحْيِنِي مَا عَلِمْتَ الْحَيَاةَ خَيْراً لِي وَتَوَفَّنِي إِذَا عَلِمْتَ الْوَفَاةَ خَيْراً لِي

*”O Allah! By Your Knowledge of the unseen and by Your Power over creation, let me live if life is good for me, and let me die if death is good for me”.

This requires surrendering and submitting all of one’s affairs to the Lord, asking Allah for the best outcome in every situation, and seeking that through His All-Encompassing knowledge because Allah has complete knowledge of both hidden and visible matters, and He has absolute power over everything. No one can change His judgment or prevent His decree. It is well known that a servant of Allah cannot predict the outcome of their affairs or their final destination. They are also unable to achieve good or avoid harm except with the help and ease granted by Allah. Therefore, a servant of Allah is always in need of Allah, regardless of where he may be. This is why one says in this supplication: [أَحْيِنِي مَا عَلِمْتَ الْحَيَاةَ خَيْراً لِي وَتَوَفَّنِي إِذَا عَلِمْتَ الْوَفَاةَ خَيْراً لِي – Let me live if life is good for me, and let me die if You know that death is good for me].

That’s why the Sunnah forbids against wishing for death when faced with hardships, as one may not fully understand the repercussions. The Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “Let none of you wish for death. If he is righteous, he might increase his good deeds. If he is sinful, he might repent”. [Bukhaari]

 

*[اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ خَشْيَتَكَ فِي الْغَيْبِ وَالشَّهَادَةِ – O Allah! I ask You to grant me (the blessing of having) fear of You in private and public].

Meaning: That I fear You in private and public- when I am with the people and when they are absent because while some fear Allah in public and when seen, the true measure of devotion lies in fearing Allah when not seen by the people. Allah praised those who fear Him in the unseen, saying: [ الَّذِينَ يَخْشَوْنَ رَبَّهُمْ بِالْغَيْبِ وَهُمْ مِنْ السَّاعَةِ مُشْفِقُونَ – Those who fear their Lord without seeing Him, while they are afraid of the Hour]. [Surah Al-Anbiyaa. Aayah 49]

Allah [The Most High] says: [ مَنْ خَشِيَ الرَّحْمَنَ بِالْغَيْبِ وَجَاءَ بِقَلْبٍ مُنِيبٍ – Who feared the Most Beneficent (Allah) in the Ghaib (unseen): (i.e. in this worldly life before seeing and meeting Him), and brought a heart turned in repentance (to Him – and absolutely free from each and every kind of polytheism)]. [Surah Qaaf. Ayah 33]

 

*[وَأَسْأَلُكَ كَلِمَةَ الْحَقِّ فِي الرِّضَا وَالْغَضَبِ – And I ask you (to make me utter) a statement of truth in times of contentment and anger].

Meaning: Empower me to speak the truth during moments of contentment and anger. Speaking the truth during moments of anger is a virtuous and powerful act, as anger often leads a person to utter the opposite of truth and other than justice. Indeed, Allah commends those of His servants who forgive when angered and their anger never drives them towards transgression and aggression. Allah [The Most High] says: [ وَإِذَا مَا غَضِبُوا هُمْ يَغْفِرُونَ – And when they are angry, they forgive]. [Surah Ash-Shuraa. Ayah 37]

If someone speaks only the truth when they’re angry, it shows that they have a strong faith and are in control of their soul (by the permission of Allah). In a hadeeth. the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “The strong one (i.e. the one who is more worthy to be described as a strong person) is not the one who (overcomes the people in) wrestling, rather the strong person is the one who restrains his himself when angry”.

*[وَأَسْأَلُكَ الْقَصْدَ فِي الْغِنَى وَالْفَقْرِ – And I ask You for moderation when in a state of wealth and poverty].

Meaning: Being moderate whether I’m poor or wealthy, following the balanced path set by the Shariah; neither stingy when I’m poor and fear running out of what I have; nor being extravagant and burdening myself with things I can’t handle, as Allah [The Most High] says: [ وَلاَ تَجْعَلْ يَدَكَ مَغْلُولَةً إِلَى عُنُقِكَ وَلاَ تَبْسُطْهَا كُلَّ الْبَسْطِ فَتَقْعُدَ مَلُومًا مَحْسُورًا – And let not your hand be tied (like a miser) to your neck, nor stretch it forth to its utmost reach (like a spendthrift), so that you become blameworthy and in severe poverty]- [Surah Al-Israa. Aayah 29].

And that if one is wealthy, his wealth does not lead him to extravagance and he exceeds the limits. Allah [The Most High] says: [وَالَّذِينَ إِذَا أَنفَقُوا لَمْ يُسْرِفُوا وَلَمْ يَقْتُرُوا وَكَانَ بَيْنَ ذَلِكَ قَوَامًا – And those, who, when they spend, are neither extravagant nor niggardly, but hold a medium (way) between those (extremes)]. [Surah Al-Furqaan. Ayah 67]

 

*[وَأَسْأَلُكَ نَعِيماً لَا يَنْفَذُ – And I ask you for blessings that never ceases]. Meaning: The blessing that never ceases is the blessing of the Hereafter, as Allah [The Most High] says: [مَا عِنْدَكُمْ يَنفَدُ وَمَا عِنْدَ اللَّهِ بَاقٍ – Whatever is with you, will be exhausted, and whatever with Allah will remain]. [Surah An-Nahl. Ayah 96] Allah says: [ إِنَّ هَذَا لَرِزْقُنَا مَا لَهُ مِنْ نَفَادٍ – (It will be said to them)! Verily, this is Our Provision which will never finish]. [Surah Saad. Ayah 54]

 

*[وَأَسْأَلُكَ قُرَّةَ عَيْنٍ لَا تَنْقَطِعُ -And I ask You for the coolness of my eye that will never end]. Meaning: Some blessings come to an end, while others do not. The coolness of one’s eyes in worldly things is only temporary and will eventually fade away. Moreover, this is tainted with fear and anxiety due to the hardships and pain we experience. As a result, believers do not find greater pleasure in anything of this world except in their love for Allah, their remembrance of Him, and their obedience to Him, as the Messenger said, “The coolness [pleasure or delight] of my eyes is in prayer”. Therefore, whoever finds the pleasure of his eyes in this (i.e. their love for Allah and obedience to Him), they have something that will never cease to exist in this world, in the grave, and the Hereafter.

*[وَأَسْأَلُكَ الرِّضِا بَعْدَ الْقَضَاءِ – And I ask You (to make me pleased) after (Your) decree]. Meaning: Asking Allah to grant you contentment after His decree has been fulfilled, as it would genuinely demonstrate your satisfaction with Allah’s decree.

 

*[وَأَسْأَلُكَ بَرْدَ الْعَيْشِ بَعْدَ الْمَوْتِ – And I ask You for a life of (ease, comfort, tranquillity etc) after death]. Meaning: This demonstrates that the true essence of a perfect life, filled with goodness and comfort, can only be experienced after death. Life before death is marred by pain and suffering. If the only pain we had to endure in this life was death itself, that would have been enough. But the reality is that life is filled with countless pains, sorrows, illnesses, the frailty of old age, and the heartache of being separated from loved ones.

*[وَأَسْأَلُكَ لَذَّةَ النَّظَرِ إِلَى وَجْهِكَ وَالشَّوْقَ إِلَى لِقَائِكَ فِي غَيْرِ ضَرَّاءَ مُضِرَّةٍ وَلَا فِتْنَةٍ مُضِلَّةٍ – And I ask You for the delight of looking at Your Face (i.e. in the Hereafter) and yearning to meet You without any harm and misleading trials (coming upon me)]. This part of the supplication brings together the best aspects of both this life and the Hereafter – the desire to meet Allah and see His Noble face in the Hereafter [May He be free from any imperfections, equals, similarities, or partners]. And since the fulfilment of this desire depends on being protected from harm in this life and being tested in one’s religious affairs, one expresses the following sentiment: [فِي غَيْرِ ضَرَّاءَ مُضِرَّةٍ وَلَا فِتْنَةٍ مُضِلَّةٍ – without any harm and misleading trials (coming upon me)].

The meeting between the believer and his lord on the day of judgment has been mentioned in many texts in the Qur’an and Sunnah. Only those who have deviated from the right path would deny it. It is the ultimate happiness for the people of Jannah and brings them the greatest joy. The Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said: When the people of Paradise would enter Paradise, Allah [The Blessed and the Exalted] would ask, “Do you wish Me to give you anything more?” They would say, “Have You not brightened our faces? Have You not made us enter Paradise and saved us from Fire?” He would lift the veil, and of things given to them, nothing would be dearer to them than looking at their Lord”. [Saheeh Muslim 181]

 

*[اللَّهُمَّ زَيِّنَّا بِزِينَةِ الْإِيمَانِ وِاجْعَلْنَا هُدَاةً مُهْتَدِينَ – O Allah! Adorn us with the adornment of Eemaan, and make us (from those who are) guided and guiding (others)]. Meaning: Beautification with Imaan involves adornment of the heart with authentic creed and noble deeds of the heart. It also entails adorning the tongue with remembrance of Allah and recitation of the Qur’an, as well as enjoining good and forbidding evil; adorning the limbs with righteous deeds that bring one closer to Allah.

 

*[ وَاجْعَلْنَا هُدَاةً مُهْتَدِينَ – And make us (from those who are) guided and guiding (others)]. Meaning: To be guided and guide others. This is the greatest status when one is acquainted with the truth, lives by it, and teaches others. We pray to Allah to lead us towards this path and allow us to be among those who are guided and guiding others.

[An “Excerpt from “Fiqh Al-Adiyah Wal Adkaar. 3/165-169. Slightly paraphrased]

To be continued…InShaaAllah

[Ref 1: Sunan An-Nasaa’ee’ Number 1305 & declared Saheeh by Imaam Albaani (rahimahullaah) in As-Saheehah Number 1301]

[13] Imaam Ahmad: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Imam Ahmad Ibn Hanbal [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: “I hold that the leader of the believers is to be obeyed (in good) in private and public, in my times of hardship and ease, in my times of enthusiasm and when I dislike doing something (i.e. something that’s not unlawful, but one does not like to do it), and when others are given precedence over me. Indeed, I supplicate to Allah – night and day – for him to be successful and guided”.

Al-Bidaayah Wan-Nihaayah 14/413

[12] Ubaydullah Bin Adi Bin Al-Khiyar: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

Written by Amjad Khan on . Posted in Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Ubaydullah Bin Adi Bin Al-Khiyar narrated that Al-Miswar Bin Makhrama and Abdur-Rahman Bin Al-Aswad Bin Abu Yaghuth said (to me), “What prevents you from speaking to Uthman about his brother Al-Walid because people have spoken much about him?” So, I went to Uthman and when he went out for prayer I said (to him), “I have something to say to you and it is a piece of advice for you”. Uthman said, “O man, from you.” (Umar said: I see that he said, “I seek Refuge with Allah from you.”) So I left him and went to them. Then the messenger of Uthman came and I went to him (i.e. `Uthman), `Uthman asked, “What is your advice?” I replied, “Allah sent Muhammad with the truth and revealed the Divine Book (i.e. Qur’an) to him, and you were amongst those who followed Allah and His Messenger, and you participated in the two migrations (to Ethiopia and Medina) and enjoyed the company of Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) and saw his way. No doubt, the people are talking much about Al-Walid.” `Uthman said, “Did you receive your knowledge directly from Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) ?” I said, “No, but his knowledge did reach me and it reached (even) to a virgin in her seclusion.” Uthman said, “And then Allah sent Muhammad with the truth and I was amongst those who followed Allah and His Messenger and I believed in whatever he (i.e. the Prophet) was sent with, and participated in two migrations, as you have said, and I enjoyed the company of Allah’s Messenger (ﷺ) and gave the pledge of allegiance him. By Allah! I never disobeyed him, nor did I cheat him till Allah took him unto Him. Then I treated Abu Bakr and then Umar similarly and then I was made Caliph. So, don’t I have rights similar to theirs?” I said, “Yes.” He said, “Then what are these talks reaching me from you people? Now, concerning what you mentioned about the question of Al-Walid, Allah willing, I shall deal with him according to what is right.” Then he called Ali and ordered him to flog him, and Ali flogged him (i.e. Al-Walid) eighty lashes. [Sahih Al-Bukhari. 3696]

[8] Ibn Sammaak: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

Written by faizkara on . Posted in Brotherhood, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Ibn Sammaak [may Allah have mercy upon you] once said to Haaroon Ar-Rasheed [may Allah have mercy upon him]: “Indeed, you will die one day, enter the grave on your own and will be resurrected (on the day of judgement), so beware of your standing in the presence of Allah [The Mighty and Majestic] and in the presence of paradise and hellfire when one will be restricted and the feet will not move. There will be regret, but no repentance will be accepted – neither will a statement be uttered with ambiguity nor will wealth be accepted as ransom”. Haaroon began to weep until his voice could be heard; then Yahyah Bin Khaalid [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “O Ibn As-Sammaak! Indeed, tonight you have brought difficulty on the leader of the believers”. Haaroon got up and left while weeping.

Al-Bidaayah Wan-Nihaayah. Vol 10. Pages 213-217

[7] Al-Allaamah Saalih Al-Fawzaan: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

Written by Amjad Khan on . Posted in Brotherhood, 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 Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Allah (The Most High) says:
وَإِذۡ قَالَ إِبۡرَٲهِـۧمُ رَبِّ ٱجۡعَلۡ هَـٰذَا بَلَدًا ءَامِنً۬ا وَٱرۡزُقۡ أَهۡلَهُ ۥ مِنَ ٱلثَّمَرَٲتِ مَنۡ ءَامَنَ مِنۡہُم بِٱللَّهِ وَٱلۡيَوۡمِ ٱلۡأَخِرِ‌ۖ

And (remember) when Ibrahim (Abraham) said, “My Lord, make this city (Makkah) a place of security and provide its people with fruits, such of them as believe in Allah and the Last Day.” [Surah Al-Baqarah. Ayah 126]

Indeed, he (Ibraaheem- peace and blessings be upon him) gave priority to security over seeking sustenance because security is a necessity. Security is a necessity and the people cannot enjoy sustenance alongside fear; rather sustenance cannot be reached in the presence of fear. This is what the enemies desire- those who try to destabilise Muslim societies. They wish to disassociate the Muslims from their unity behind their Muslim rulers. This is what they desire – and they do not desire good advice (rectification etc) for the Muslims – in the name of fulfilling beneficial affairs, rectification, removal of oppression, and the like. All of this is lies and pretenses because if rulership slips away chaos will be at large, corruption will spread and the beneficial affairs which they say will be fulfilled will be non-existent. Corruption will be at large and there will not be rectification. Therefore, for this reason, there has to be rulership upon which the Muslims unite. Even if (such rulership) has shortcomings and negligence, the (people) should exercise patience because there is a prevention of that which is more severe and harmful in exercising patience. Shaikhul Islam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “It is not known of a group that rose against their Muslim Ruler, except that their state of affairs after his removal was eviler than their state of affairs whilst he was present”. This is something experienced at present! The rulers and heads of state who have been removed, what is the state of affairs of their countries after they were (removed)? There has not ceased to be fear, anxiety, chaos, bloodshed, etc. [Paraphrased] Listen below:

https://safeshare.tv/x/GTWtXddirt
https://video.link/w/tr4U?src=syt

To be continued…InShaaAllah

[6] Al-Hasan Al-Basri and others: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Brotherhood, 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 Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

The Importance of Safety And Security In a Country

Security is a great blessing without which a person would not be able to lead a productive, fulfilling, and joyful life. As a result, Makkah and the Masjid Al-Haraam have been blessed by Allah, becoming a safe and sacred sanctuary. Allah says:

وَإِذْ جَعَلْنَا الْبَيْتَ مَثَابَةً لِّلنَّاسِ وَأَمْنًا وَاتَّخِذُوا مِن مَّقَامِ إِبْرَاهِيمَ مُصَلًّى ۖ وَعَهِدْنَا إِلَىٰ إِبْرَاهِيمَ وَإِسْمَاعِيلَ أَن طَهِّرَا بَيْتِيَ لِلطَّائِفِينَ وَالْعَاكِفِينَ وَالرُّكَّعِ السُّجُودِ

And [remember] when We made the House (the Ka’bah at Makkah) a place of resort for mankind and a place of safety. And take you (people) the Maqam (place) of Ibrahim (Abraham) [or the stone on which Ibrahim (Abraham) stood while he was building the Ka’bah] as a place of prayer (for some of your prayers, e.g. two Rak’at after the Tawaf of the Ka’bah at Makkah), and We commanded Ibrahim (Abraham) and Isma’il (Ishmael) that they should purify My House (the Ka’bah at Makkah) for those who are circumambulating it, or staying (I’tikaf), or bowing or prostrating themselves (there, in prayer). [Surah Al-Baqarah. Ayah 125]

Allah says:
فِيهِ آيَاتٌ بَيِّنَاتٌ مَّقَامُ إِبْرَاهِيمَ ۖ وَمَن دَخَلَهُ كَانَ آمِنًا ۗ وَلِلَّهِ عَلَى النَّاسِ حِجُّ الْبَيْتِ مَنِ اسْتَطَاعَ إِلَيْهِ سَبِيلًا ۚ وَمَن كَفَرَ فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ غَنِيٌّ عَنِ الْعَالَمِينَ

In it are manifest signs (for example), the Maqam (place) of Ibrahim (Abraham); whosoever enters it, he attains security. And Hajj(pilgrimage to Makkah) to the House (Ka’bah) is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, those who can afford the expenses (for one’s conveyance, provision and residence); and whoever disbelieves [i.e. denies Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah), then he is a disbeliever of Allah], then Allah stands not in need of any of the ‘Alamin (mankind and jinns)]. [Surah Al-Imran. Ayah 97]

Allah [The Most High] says:
وَقَالُوا إِن نَّتَّبِعِ الْهُدَىٰ مَعَكَ نُتَخَطَّفْ مِنْ أَرْضِنَا ۚ أَوَلَمْ نُمَكِّن لَّهُمْ حَرَمًا آمِنًا يُجْبَىٰ إِلَيْهِ ثَمَرَاتُ كُلِّ شَيْءٍ رِّزْقًا مِّن لَّدُنَّا وَلَٰكِنَّ أَكْثَرَهُمْ لَا يَعْلَمُونَ

And they say: “If we follow the guidance with you, we would be snatched away from our land.” Have We not established for them a secure sanctuary (Makkah), to which are brought fruits of all kinds, a provision from Ourselves, but most of them know not. [Surah Al-Qasas. Ayah 57]

Allah [The Most High] says:
أَوَلَمْ يَرَوْا أَنَّا جَعَلْنَا حَرَمًا آمِنًا وَيُتَخَطَّفُ النَّاسُ مِنْ حَوْلِهِمْ ۚ أَفَبِالْبَاطِلِ يُؤْمِنُونَ وَبِنِعْمَةِ اللَّهِ يَكْفُرُونَ

Have they not seen that We have made (Makkah) a sanctuary secure and that men are being snatched away from all around them? Then do they believe in Batil (falsehood – polytheism, idols and all deities other than Allah), and deny (become ingrate for) the Graces of Allah?] [Surah Al-Ankabut. Ayah 67]

Allah [The Most High] says:
لِإِيلَافِ قُرَيْشٍ
إِيلَافِهِمْ رِحْلَةَ الشِّتَاءِ وَالصَّيْفِ
فَلْيَعْبُدُوا رَبَّ هَٰذَا الْبَيْتِ
الَّذِي أَطْعَمَهُم مِّن جُوعٍ وَآمَنَهُم مِّنْ خَوْفٍ

(It is a great Grace and Protection from Allah), for the taming of the Quraish; (And with all those Allah’s Grace and Protections for their taming, We cause) the (Quraish) caravans to set forth safe in winter (to the south), and in summer (to the north without any fear). So let them worship (Allah) the Lord of this House (the Ka’bah in Makkah). (He) Who has fed them against hunger, and has made them safe from fear. [Surah Quraish]

If someone has been granted physical well-being and safety in their surroundings, they have achieved all the blessings of this world. Salamah Bin Ubaidullaah Ibn Mihsan Al-Khatmiy narrated from his father that the Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said: “Whoever among you wakes up (in the morning) safe in his property, healthy in his body and has his daily nourishment, it is as if he has been granted the entire world”. [1]

When our upright leader Ibraaheem [peace be upon him] settled some of his offspring at this valley [i.e. Makkah], the first of his supplications was:

رَبِّ اجْعَلْ هَٰذَا بَلَدًا آمِنًا وَارْزُقْ أَهْلَهُ مِنَ الثَّمَرَاتِ مَنْ آمَنَ مِنْهُم بِاللَّهِ وَالْيَوْمِ الْآخِرِ ۖ قَالَ وَمَن كَفَرَ فَأُمَتِّعُهُ قَلِيلًا ثُمَّ أَضْطَرُّهُ إِلَىٰ عَذَابِ النَّارِ ۖ وَبِئْسَ الْمَصِيرُ

“My Lord, make this city (Makkah) a place of security and provide its people with fruits, such of them as believe in Allah and the Last Day.” He (Allah) answered: “As for him who disbelieves, I shall leave him in contentment for a while, then I shall compel him to the torment of the Fire, and worst indeed is that destination!] [Surah Al-Baqarah. Ayah 126]

This highlights the importance of safety for individuals, otherwise, Prophet Ibraaheem [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] would not have repeatedly asked Allah to make it a reality in this land. If you observe lands where safety has been compromised, you will notice that people are unable to carry out their daily activities. Schools and markets are closed, and everyone remains in their homes. Those who have the means would quickly leave this land and relocate elsewhere. If you ask them, they will express their inability to live with their loved ones in a place where safety is absent. Security can only be ensured through two things: following Allah’s laws and obeying the rulers. The Messenger (peace and blessings be upon him) emphasized the importance of these two aspects in a Muslim’s life in the hadith reported by Irbaad Ibn Saariyah [may Allah be pleased with him] who said: Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] gave us an admonition after the morning prayer –an admonition that made our hearts fearful and our eyes tearful. So, a man said, “Indeed, is this a farewell sermon, so what do you advise us?” He said, “I enjoin you to fear Allah and that you listen and obey, even if an Abyssinian slave (is made a ruler over you); for indeed he among you who lives long enough will see many differences. So, beware of newly invented matters (in the religion) because indeed it is misguidance. And whoever among you witnesses that, then it is obligated on him to adhere to my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the rightly guided Caliphs [i.e. AbuBakr, Umar, Uthmaan, and Ali], adhere to it with your molar teeth”. [2]

This hadeeth establishes the basis of security in Islam and it includes two important aspects: fear of Allah and obedience to the rulers. Fear of Allah rectifies a Muslim’s relationship with Allah, neighbors, and everything around them, and in the absence of Allah’s Shariah, destruction and corruption will prevail. Allah has warned those who abandon His Shariah and disobey His Messenger. Allah says:

وَضَرَبَ اللَّهُ مَثَلًا قَرْيَةً كَانَتْ آمِنَةً مُّطْمَئِنَّةً يَأْتِيهَا رِزْقُهَا رَغَدًا مِّن كُلِّ مَكَانٍ فَكَفَرَتْ بِأَنْعُمِ اللَّهِ فَأَذَاقَهَا اللَّهُ لِبَاسَ الْجُوعِ وَالْخَوْفِ بِمَا كَانُوا يَصْنَعُونَ

And Allah puts forward the example of a township (Makkah), that dwelt secure and well content; its provision coming to it in abundance from every place, but it (its people) denied the Favours of Allah (with ungratefulness). So Allah made it taste the extreme of hunger (famine) and fear, because of that (evil, i.e. denying Prophet Muhammad) which they (its people) used to do. [Surah An-Nahl. Ayah 112]

By listening to the rulers and obeying them (in good), all the affairs of the person’s life in his society will be in a state of normality. Listening to the rulers and obeying them (in good) is included in the subject matter of fear of Allah. Al-Hasan Al-Basri [may Allah have mercy upon him] used to say, “Indeed, Al-Hajjaaj is the punishment of Allah, so do not repel the punishment of Allaah with your own hands; rather you must submit and show humility because Allah [The Most High] said: [وَلَقَدْ أَخَذْنَاهُم بِالْعَذَابِ فَمَا اسْتَكَانُوا لِرَبِّهِمْ وَمَا يَتَضَرَّعُونَ – And Indeed We seized them with punishment, but they humbled not themselves to their Lord, nor did they invoke (Allaah) with submission to Him]”. [Surah Al-Muminoon. Ayah 76]

So, you meet someone who understands what security means and their understanding increases because of fear of Allah, and they are eager to obey the rulers in a good way. But when they don’t fully live up to their fear of Allah, their sense of security becomes lacking. When fear of Allah is fulfilled, they will receive the promise that Allah has mentioned in Surah An-Noor.

وَعَدَ اللَّهُ الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا مِنكُمْ وَعَمِلُوا الصَّالِحَاتِ لَيَسْتَخْلِفَنَّهُمْ فِي الْأَرْضِ كَمَا اسْتَخْلَفَ الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِهِمْ وَلَيُمَكِّنَنَّ لَهُمْ دِينَهُمُ الَّذِي ارْتَضَىٰ لَهُمْ وَلَيُبَدِّلَنَّهُم مِّن بَعْدِ خَوْفِهِمْ أَمْنًا ۚ يَعْبُدُونَنِي لَا يُشْرِكُونَ بِي شَيْئًا ۚ وَمَن كَفَرَ بَعْدَ ذَٰلِكَ فَأُولَٰئِكَ هُمُ الْفَاسِقُونَ

Allah has promised those among you who believe, and do righteous good deeds, that He will certainly grant them succession to (the present rulers) in the earth, as He granted it to those before them, and that He will grant them the authority to practice their religion, that which He has chosen for them (i.e. Islam). And He will surely give them in exchange a safe security after their fear (provided) they (believers) worship Me and do not associate anything (in worship) with Me. But whoever disbelieved after this, they are the Fasiqun (rebellious, disobedient to Allah). [Surah An-Noor. Ayah 55]

It is a well-known fact that (some aspects of the religion dealing with societal issues) cannot be established properly without a strong community of Muslims. And a strong community of Muslims cannot exist without a leader. This leader can only be effective if people listen to him and obey him in good. However, when people refuse to obey the ruler and prioritise their desires, it leads to corruption and a deviation from the right path. This disobedience is one of the major reasons for the downfall of both the land and its people. Al Hasan Al Basri [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “By Allah! The religion cannot be established except by way of rulers, even if they commit tyranny and oppression, due to the many affairs that Allah rectifies through them more than what they corrupt”.

Ibn Rajab [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “There is (good and great advantage) in the worldly life when rulers are obeyed. And by way of it, the beneficial affairs related to the livelihood of the people are established and they utilise them as an aid through which they manifest their religion and obey their Lord”.

Disobedience to the rulers and putting oneself before them by fighting or other than that (is tantamount) to disobeying Allah and His Messenger, and opposition to that which Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jamaa’ah were upon – the pious predecessors. Preservation of security leads to brotherhood and mutual alliance between the Muslims. Allah [The Mighty and Majestic] says: [إِنَّمَا الْمُؤْمِنُونَ إِخْوَةٌ فَأَصْلِحُوا بَيْنَ أَخَوَيْكُمْ ۚ وَاتَّقُوا اللَّهَ لَعَلَّكُمْ تُرْحَمُونَ – The believers are nothing else than brothers (in Islamic religion). So, make reconciliation between your brothers, and fear Allah, that you may receive mercy]. [Surah Al-Hujuraat. Ayah 10]

Allah [The Most High] says:
وَالْمُؤْمِنُونَ وَالْمُؤْمِنَاتُ بَعْضُهُمْ أَوْلِيَاءُ بَعْضٍ ۚ يَأْمُرُونَ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ وَيَنْهَوْنَ عَنِ الْمُنكَرِ وَيُقِيمُونَ الصَّلَاةَ وَيُؤْتُونَ الزَّكَاةَ وَيُطِيعُونَ اللَّهَ وَرَسُولَهُ ۚ أُولَٰئِكَ سَيَرْحَمُهُمُ اللَّهُ ۗ إِنَّ اللَّهَ عَزِيزٌ حَكِيمٌ

The believers, men, and women are Auliya’ (helpers, supporters, friends, protectors) of one another, they enjoin (on the people) Al-Ma’ruf, and forbid (people) from Al-Munkar; they perform As-Salat and give the Zakat, and obey Allah and His Messenger. Allah will have His Mercy on them. Surely Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise. [Surah At-Tawbah. Ayah 71]

Imaan is neither wishful thinking nor mere claims, rather it is what settles in the heart and actions testify to it. A person cannot be a true believer until he loves for his Muslim brother what he loves for himself and until he deals with the people in a manner he loves to be dealt with! It is well known that security is something sought after by everyone, therefore it is the responsibility of a Muslim that he is eager for the security of others so that he can receive security and safety for himself.

Also, preserving security in the land necessitates the fulfilment of trusts, whereas bringing about a state of insecurity is tantamount to treachery. Allah [The Most High] says:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا لَا تَخُونُوا اللَّهَ وَالرَّسُولَ وَتَخُونُوا أَمَانَاتِكُمْ وَأَنتُمْ تَعْلَمُونَ
وَاعْلَمُوا أَنَّمَا أَمْوَالُكُمْ وَأَوْلَادُكُمْ فِتْنَةٌ وَأَنَّ اللَّهَ عِندَهُ أَجْرٌ عَظِيمٌ
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا إِن تَتَّقُوا اللَّهَ يَجْعَل لَّكُمْ فُرْقَانًا وَيُكَفِّرْ عَنكُمْ سَيِّئَاتِكُمْ وَيَغْفِرْ لَكُمْ ۗ وَاللَّهُ ذُو الْفَضْلِ الْعَظِيمِ

O you who believe! Betray not Allah and His Messenger, nor betray knowingly your Amaanaat (things entrusted to you, and all the duties which Allah has ordained for you). And know that your possessions and your children are but a trial and that surely with Allah is a mighty reward. O you who believe! If you obey and fear Allah, He will grant you Furqan a criterion [(to judge between right and wrong), or (Makhraj, i.e. making a way for you to get out from every difficulty)], and will expiate for you your sins, and forgive you, and Allah is the Owner of the Great Bounty. [Surah Al-Anfaal. Ayaat 27-29] [3]

Shaikhul Islam Ibn Taymiyyah [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “Indeed it has been stated that ninety-nine years with an oppressive ruler is better than a single night without a ruler”. [4]

Al-Allaamah Saalih Al-Fawzaan [may Allaah preserve him] was asked: How do we reconcile the Hadith: “Whoever is killed while protecting his property, then he is a martyr”. [5] And the Hadith, “You should listen and obey the ruler even if he flogs your back and takes your wealth, then still hear and obey” [6]

Answer: “You should listen and obey the ruler even if he flogs your back and takes your wealth”, this is with the Muslim Ruler. (i.e. this is the manner the Muslim is expected to behave with the Muslim Ruler). As for protecting one’s wealth (by way of resistance), this is (done) with other than the Muslim Ruler. If an oppressor, a thief, a robber, or a highway robber wants to take your wealth, you defend (yourself) even if you are killed. If killed, you are a martyr. As for the Muslim Ruler, you do not resist. Even if your wealth is taken, you do not resist; rather exercise patience due to the greater evil (i.e. the greater evil that may come about from resisting). So, there is differentiation between the Muslim Ruler and someone among the people (i.e. oppression received from someone among the people).

Question: What do you say to the one who says: “Indeed, the hadith (i.e. the above hadith) nurtures the Muslim upon weakness”?

Answer: The Hadith nurtures the Muslim with obedience and strength because obedience to the Muslim Ruler is strength and not weakness. He leaves this (i.e. this resistance against the Muslim Ruler) for the sake of a universal good and (for the sake of) uniting the word of the Muslims. The people of vain desires want to do away with the authentic proofs so that they can safeguard their views. This is their intention. They bring doubts in the verses of the Qur’an and the ahaadith to safeguard their deviated views. [7]

Al-Allaamah Al-Izz Bin Abdis Salaam [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said, “Had it not been for the appointment of a ruler, the beneficial universal affairs would have been lost, universal corruption would have become the reality, the strong would have overcome the weak and the (immoral) ones would have overcome the noble (mannered) ones”. Shaikh Abdus-Salaam Burgess [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “The explanation of this is that the majority of the children of Adam are inclined towards injustice and love of vengeance, and had it not been that there was a ruler who administers their affairs, they would have become like the beasts of the wild and fish of the sea—the strong eat the weak”. [8]

To be continued…InShaaAllah

[1] As-Saheehah. 2318

[2] Reported by Ahmad 3/126

[3] An Excerpt from “Silsilah Ar-Rasaa’il Al-Manhajiyyah Fin-Nus’hi Wal-Irshaad Wat-Taw’iyah”. pages 7–27

[4] Al-Fataawaa: 14/268

[5] Al-Bukhaari. Number 2480

[6] Sahih Muslim 4554

[7]: Explanation of the hadith: ‘’We were in a state of ignorance p.46-47. Questions and Answers section

[8] Aqeedah Ahlil Islam Feemaa Yajibu Lil-Imam: page 11

[5] Khalid Bin Safwaan: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

Written by faizkara on . Posted in Brotherhood, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Umar Bin Abdil Azeez [may Allah have mercy upon him] said to Khalid Bin Safwan [may Allah have mercy upon him], “Admonish me”. Khalid said, “O leader of the believers! There are a people who have been deluded by Allah’s concealment of (their sins, flaws, etc.), and the good praise (received) has put them to trial; thus, do not allow the ignorance of others (about your reality) to override what you know about yourself. May Allah protect us and you from being misled by Allah’s concealment of (our sins, flaws, etc), and from being pleased with the praise (received), falling short and neglecting that which Allah has obligated to us, and inclining towards (vain) desires.” He (Umar) wept and stated, “May Allah protect us and you from following (vain) desires”.

[Tahdheeb Al-Hilyah 2/485]

Imam Ibn Baz on the Manhaj of Correcting the Rulers

https://www.salafipublications.com/sps/sp.cfm?subsecID=MNJ16&articleID=MNJ160003&articlePages=1#:~:text=The%20followed%20path%20with%20the,is%20directed%20towards%20the%20good.

Is the Tyranny of the Rulers a Reason for Rebellion? The Duty of a Muslim Towards the Muslim Leaders in Light of the Qur’ān, Sunnah, and the Scholars of the Salaf.

https://abukhadeejah.com/the-tyranny-of-the-rulers-a-reason-for-rebellion/

To be continued InShaaAllah

 

[4] Muhammad Bin Kab, Rajaa Bin Haywah and Saalim Bin Abdillah: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

Written by Amjad Khan on . Posted in Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Sufyan Bin Uyaynah [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “Upon assuming the position of Khaleefah, Umar Bin Abdil Azeez [may Allah have mercy upon him] reached out to Muhammad Bin Kab, Rajaa Bin Haywah, and Saalim Bin Abdillah [may Allah have mercy upon them] and said, “You witness the trial I face and it has fallen upon me, therefore, what do you advise?” Muhammad Bin Kab said, “Regard the elderly as your own father, treat the youth as your brother, and care for the young ones as your own children; therefore, be good to your father, maintain strong bonds with your brother, and be compassionate towards your child”. Rajaa said, “Wish for the people what you wish for yourself, detest for them what you detest for yourself, and interact with them in a manner that you would appreciate in return.” Saalim said, “Focus on one matter by diminishing the desires of worldly life and let your natural inclination lead you to contemplate death.” Umar proclaimed, “Laa Hawla Walaa Quwwata Illaa Billaah”.

An Excerpt from Al-Bidaayah Wan-Nihaayah. Vol 9. Pages 193-202. Publisher: Maktabah Al-Ma’aarif and Daar ibn Hazm. 9th Edition. 1414 AH (1994)

Imam Ibn Baz on the Manhaj of Correcting the Rulers

https://www.salafipublications.com/sps/sp.cfm?subsecID=MNJ16&articleID=MNJ160003&articlePages=1#:~:text=The%20followed%20path%20with%20the,is%20directed%20towards%20the%20good.

Is the Tyranny of the Rulers a Reason for Rebellion? The Duty of a Muslim Towards the Muslim Leaders in Light of the Qur’ān, Sunnah, and the Scholars of the Salaf.
https://abukhadeejah.com/the-tyranny-of-the-rulers-a-reason-for-rebellion/

To be continued InShaaAllah

[3] Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz: Exemplifying Positive Engagement and Effective Communication with the Rulers

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, 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 Allah, The Most Merciful, The Bestower of Mercy.

Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allah have mercy upon him] was asked: “The worst scholars are those who approach (visit) the rulers”. What is the level of authenticity of this hadith?

Response: I do not know about its authenticity, and if it were authentic, then it would imply an evil visit. If it is authentic, then it signifies a visit driven by vain desires, material wealth, and alignment with falsehood. (But), if the scholars neglect the rulers, they will become corrupt. If the scholars neglect the rulers and isolate them, the state of affairs will become corrupted, and the rights of the people will be violated. Therefore, goodness and Maslahah (i.e. what will bring about welfare and repel harm) is that the scholars visit and guide the rulers, and the rulers seek Tawjeeh (guidance) from them, Irshaad (the upright path to follow in all affairs), advise them regarding the avoidance of injustice, support the oppressed, and prevention of injustice against them, just as the scholars -from the time of the companions to the present day ours- visit them. As for the scholars abandoning and boycotting the rulers, and not visiting them, this is wrong – a blunder, and only those who do not know public welfare would suggest such a course of action. [paraphrased]

ما صحة حديث: شرار العلماء الذين يأتون إلى الأمراء؟
الجواب:
ما أعرف له صحة، ولو صح فالمقصود زيارتهم الخبيثة، لو صح، فالمراد بالزيارة التي للشهوة، والمال، والموافقة على الباطل.
وإذا أهمل العلماء الأمراء؛ فسدوا، إذا أهمل العلماء الأمراء، وانزووا عنهم؛ فسد الأمر، وضاعت الحقوق، فالمصلحة، والخير في أن يزورهم العلماء، ويرشدوهم، ويطلبوا منهم التوجيه، والإرشاد، والنصيحة عن الظلم، ونصر المظلومين، وإزالة الظلم عنهم، كما زارهم العلماء سابقًا من عهد الصحابة إلى يومنا هذا.
أما كون العلماء يتركونهم، ويهجرونهم، ولا يزورونهم؛ فهذا خطأ، هذا غلط، لا يقوله إلا الجهلة الذين لا يعرفون المصالح العامة

https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/1913/%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%AD%D9%83%D9%85-%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%89-%D8%AD%D8%AF%D9%8A%D8%AB-%D8%B4%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%B1-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%85%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%B0%D9%8A%D9%86-%D9%8A%D8%A7%D8%AA%D9%88%D9%86-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7%D9%85%D8%B1%D8%A7%D8%A1

 

Imam Ibn Baz on the Manhaj of Correcting the Rulers

https://www.salafipublications.com/sps/sp.cfm?subsecID=MNJ16&articleID=MNJ160003&articlePages=1#:~:text=The%20followed%20path%20with%20the,is%20directed%20towards%20the%20good.

Is the Tyranny of the Rulers a Reason for Rebellion? The Duty of a Muslim Towards the Muslim Leaders in Light of the Qur’ān, Sunnah, and the Scholars of the Salaf.
https://abukhadeejah.com/the-tyranny-of-the-rulers-a-reason-for-rebellion/

To be continued InShaaAllah