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A supplication of Abu Ad-Darda

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, 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.

Ibn Abee Shaybah, may Allah have mercy upon him, reported in Kitab Al-Iman and also in Al-Musannaf (6/164) that Abu Ad-Darda, may Allah be pleased with him, always use to supplicate, saying:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي  أَسْأَلُكَ إيمَانًا دَائِمًا وَعِلْمًا نَافِعًا وَهَدْيًا قَيِّمًا

“O Allah! I ask you for abiding Iman, beneficial knowledge and upright guidance”.

Mu’aawiyyah Ibn Qurra, may Allah have mercy upon him, transmitted this narration from Abu Darda and then said: “This is because there is Imaan that is not abiding, knowledge that is not beneficial and guidance that is not upright”.

Al-Madkhal Li-diraasaat Al-Aqeedah Al-Islaamiy yah. Lesson 2

The Comprehensive Message

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Bid'ah (Innovation), Brotherhood, Charity (Sadaqah), Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Death, Deviated Groups, Sects and Parties, Eid, Family & Women, Fasting, Hajj, Dhul Hijjah, Eid al Adha, Hijrah (Migration), History of Islam, Innovations In Islam (Bidah), Islamic Jurisprudence - 'Fiqh', Jahannam (Hell Fire), Jannah (Paradise), Literature, Marriage (Nikkah), Mental Health, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Muharram and Ashoorah, Pearls of Wisdom, Prophets, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Ramadhan, Refutations, Repentance, Sahaabah, Salaah - Prayer, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Salafi Mosques & Centres, Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, Shirk, Sin, Tamyee', Taraweeh, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah', Zakaat, Zuhd (Abstinence).

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

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

Muhammad’s, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, Ummah is not in need of anyone after him; rather the only need they have is someone to convey what he came with.

Muhammad’s message is comprehensive, universal and preserved. This universality, comprehensiveness and preservation is not limited to (any time, place or situation), rather it is comprehensive for those to whom Muhammad was sent [the whole world] and likewise with regards to everything that is needed in the fundamental and subsidiary issues of the religion.

Muhammad’s message is sufficient, all embracing and universal- nothing else is needed besides it. It has not isolated any affair of truth needed by his Ummah in their sciences and deeds. The Messenger of Allah did not leave this world until he acquainted his Ummah with everything. He even taught them the etiquettes of using the toilet; the etiquettes of sexual relations; the etiquettes of sleep and after waking up; the etiquettes of eating, drinking and travel.

He acquainted them with the etiquettes of speech and silence; the etiquettes of keeping company with the people and seclusion. He acquainted them with the affairs of illness, good health, poverty and wealth. He acquainted them with all the affairs of life and death. He described Allah’s throne, the angels, the jinn, the hell fire and the day of judgement in such a manner as if one has seen them with the naked eye. He informed them about their Lord and His Perfect Names and Attributes, and that Allah alone is their true object of worship.

He acquainted them with the Prophets of old and their nations – the events that took place between them and their nations – in such a manner as if one was present at that time. He acquainted them with all the means to good and the paths of evil- in general and in detail- which no other prophet informed his nation. He acquainted them with death and what will take place in the grave – either bliss or punishment. He acquainted them with the evidences and proofs of Tawhid [i.e. the oneness of Allah in His Lordship, Names and Attributes, and that Allah alone has the right to be worshipped].

He acquainted them with Prophet hood and the affairs of the Afterlife, and he refuted all the sects of disbelief and misguidance. He acquainted them with war strategies- how to confront the enemy, the way to achieve victory and conquests. If only they knew and understood these affairs in the correct manner [i.e. the manner it should be understood], they would not be overcome by their enemy. He acquainted them with the plots of Iblees and the ways through which he approaches them, and the ways to repel those plots and plans. He acquainted them with the soul- its characteristics and faults- in such a manner that they are not in need of anyone else to tell them about it. He taught them how to live their daily lives and had they acknowledged and acted upon this; their worldly affairs would be firmly established. He brought them all the means of success in this life and the next, and they do not need anyone besides him. So how can it be said that the path of Muhammad is in need of something else outside of it. The reason for such a claim is due to the weak and little understanding of a person. Allah [The Most High] said:

أَوَلَمْ يَكْفِهِمْ أَنَّا أَنزَلْنَا عَلَيْكَ الْكِتَابَ يُتْلَىٰ عَلَيْهِمْ ۚ إِنَّ فِي ذَٰلِكَ لَرَحْمَةً وَذِكْرَىٰ لِقَوْمٍ يُؤْمِنُونَ

Is it not sufficient for them that We have sent down to you the Book (the Qur’an) which is recited to them? Verily, herein is mercy and a reminder (or an admonition) for a people who believe.

Allah [The Most High] said:

وَنَزَّلْنَا عَلَيْكَ الْكِتَابَ تِبْيَانًا لِّكُلِّ شَيْءٍ وَهُدًى وَرَحْمَةً وَبُشْرَىٰ لِلْمُسْلِمِينَ

And We have sent down to you the Book (the Qur’an) as an exposition of everything, a guidance, a mercy, and glad tidings for those who have submitted themselves (to Allah as Muslims).

Allah [The Most High] said:

يَا أَيُّهَا النَّاسُ قَدْ جَاءَتْكُم مَّوْعِظَةٌ مِّن رَّبِّكُمْ وَشِفَاءٌ لِّمَا فِي الصُّدُورِ وَهُدًى وَرَحْمَةٌ لِّلْمُؤْمِنِينَ

O mankind! There has come to you a good advice from your Lord (i.e. the Qur’an, ordering all that is good and forbidding all that is evil), and a healing for that (disease of ignorance, doubt, hypocrisy and differences, etc.) in your breasts, – a guidance and a mercy (explaining lawful and unlawful things, etc.) for the believers.

An Excerpt from I’lam Al-Muwaqqi’een 4/375-377

Two Compelling Admonitions – “Outcomes of Truthfulness and Lying” By Al-Allamah Rabee

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Bid'ah (Innovation), Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Deviated Callers & Individuals, Deviated Groups, Sects and Parties, Featured, History of Islam, Innovations In Islam (Bidah), Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Prophets, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Refutations, Repentance, Sahaabah, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, Seeking Knowledge, Shirk, Sin, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors.

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

Two Compelling Admonitions [By Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Madf’khali, may Allah preserve him], On The Tremendous and Fruitful Outcomes of Truthfulness and The Detrimental Outcomes of Lying

Outcomes_of_Truthfulness_and_Lying

The Importance of Truthfulness – By Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali [Part 9]

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), History of Islam, Jahannam (Hell Fire), Jannah (Paradise), Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Sahaabah, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah preserve him, continued…

Due to his profound happiness at this repentance and his deep appreciation for this blessing, he emphasised that through the behaviour of one who is grateful for Allah’s blessings upon him, thus he said: “O Allah’s Messenger! Because of the acceptance of my repentance I will give up all my wealth as alms for the Sake of Allah and His Messenger”. The enticing wealth that was one of the reasons behind him not participating in Jihad serves as further evidence of the sincerity of his repentance and his diligence in that. Then Allah’s Messenger- the compassionate and merciful, advised him to retain a portion of his wealth. So, what did he do? He relinquished his wealth at Madinah, which withheld him from participating in military expedition in the path of Allah, while he retained the better part of that distant wealth (acquired at Khaybar), which perhaps had no connection to withholding him from Jihad. He expressed a strong reason for his salvation, which – in his view- was solely one reason that saved him from utter destruction. He stated, “O Messenger of Allah, indeed Allah saved me for telling the truth; so it is a part of my repentance not to tell but the truth as long as I am alive”. By Allah Grace in fulfilling what he promised to the Messenger, peace be upon him, and in what kab saw as essential to his repentance to this day, it is the best of what he has stated: “By Allah, I do not know anyone of the Muslims whom Allah has helped to speak the truth more than me. Since I have mentioned that truth to Allah’s Messenger till today, I have never intended to tell a lie”.

What (an exemplary example regarding) fear of Allah (associated) with truthfulness and the nobility of the truthful ones that is stand in stark contrast to the (behaviour) of the liars, and a decisive (proof) against the liars in every era and place. How can not be the case when it (lying) is one of the greatest call to disbelief and hypocrisy, and its least (harmful) circumstance is that it is one of the stations of hypocrisy, may Allah protect us from it and from all that displeases Him. Then he spoke about this blessing which Allah bestowed upon: “”By Allah, I do not know anyone of the Muslims whom Allah has helped to speak the truth more than me. Since I have mentioned that truth to Allah’s Messenger till today, I have never intended to tell a lie. I hope that Allah will also save me (from telling lies) the rest of my life”. Then Allah revealed to His Messenger:

وَعَلَى الثَّلَاثَةِ الَّذِينَ خُلِّفُوا حَتَّىٰ إِذَا ضَاقَتْ عَلَيْهِمُ الْأَرْضُ بِمَا رَحُبَتْ وَضَاقَتْ عَلَيْهِمْ أَنفُسُهُمْ وَظَنُّوا أَن لَّا مَلْجَأَ مِنَ اللَّهِ إِلَّا إِلَيْهِ ثُمَّ تَابَ عَلَيْهِمْ لِيَتُوبُوا ۚ إِنَّ اللَّهَ هُوَ التَّوَّابُ الرَّحِيمُ
يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اتَّقُوا اللَّهَ وَكُونُوا مَعَ الصَّادِقِينَ

And (He did forgive also) the three [who did not join the Tabuk expedition (whom the Prophet SAW)] left (i.e. he did not give his judgement in their case, and their case was suspended for Allah’s Decision) till for them the earth, vast as it is, was straitened and their ownselves were straitened to them, and they perceived that there is no fleeing from Allah, and no refuge but with Him. Then, He accepted their repentance, that they might repent (unto Him). Verily, Allah is the One Who accepts repentance, Most Merciful. O you who believe! Be afraid of Allah, and be with those who are true (in words and deeds). [Al-Tawbah 118-119]

Kab said: By Allah, Allah has never bestowed upon me, apart from His guiding me to Islam, a Greater blessing than the fact that I did not tell a lie to Allah’s Messenger which would have caused me to perish as those who have told a lie perished, for Allah described those who told lies with the worst description He ever attributed to anybody else. Allah said:

سَيَحْلِفُونَ بِاللَّهِ لَكُمْ إِذَا انقَلَبْتُمْ إِلَيْهِمْ لِتُعْرِضُوا عَنْهُمْ ۖ فَأَعْرِضُوا عَنْهُمْ ۖ إِنَّهُمْ رِجْسٌ ۖ وَمَأْوَاهُمْ جَهَنَّمُ جَزَاءً بِمَا كَانُوا يَكْسِبُونَ
يَحْلِفُونَ لَكُمْ لِتَرْضَوْا عَنْهُمْ ۖ فَإِن تَرْضَوْا عَنْهُمْ فَإِنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يَرْضَىٰ عَنِ الْقَوْمِ الْفَاسِقِينَ

They will swear by Allah to you (Muslims) when you return to them, that you may turn away from them. So turn away from them. Surely, they are Rijsun [i.e. Najasun (impure) because of their evil deeds], and Hell is their dwelling place, – a recompense for that which they used to earn. They (the hypocrites) swear to you (Muslims) that you may be pleased with them, but if you are pleased with them, certainly Allah is not pleased with the people who are Al-Fasiqun (rebellious, disobedient to Allah). [al-Tawbah 95-96]

This is the outcome for the liars, even if their lie was flattery and excuses. The forgiveness sought by the Messenger for them did not benefit them in anything in their lives nor after their deaths. Allah said:

اسْتَغْفِرْ لَهُمْ أَوْ لَا تَسْتَغْفِرْ لَهُمْ إِن تَسْتَغْفِرْ لَهُمْ سَبْعِينَ مَرَّةً فَلَن يَغْفِرَ اللَّهُ لَهُمْ ۚ ذَٰلِكَ بِأَنَّهُمْ كَفَرُوا بِاللَّهِ وَرَسُولِهِ

Whether you (O Muhammad) ask forgiveness for them (hypocrites) or ask not forgiveness for them, (and even) if you ask seventy times for their forgiveness, Allah will not forgive them. [al-Tawbah 80]

[فَمَا تَنفَعُهُمْ شَفَاعَةُ الشَّافِعِينَ – So no intercession of intercessors will be of any use to them. [Al-Mud-dath-thir 48]

There is a mighty moral lesson here for those who do not purify themselves through monotheism, Iman, truthfulness, and good deeds. Among those deceitful liars, some may have believed that their lies and trickery will lead to the Prophet’s forgiveness and mercy, saving them from Allah wrath and humiliation in this life and the hereafter. However, Allah has shattered their hopes and humiliated them in this worldly life and the Hereafter. The Prophet’s intercession did not benefited them at all. The Qur’an made this reality clear in in Surah al-Tawbah and other than it, and the Prophet emphasised through his statement to the Quraysh, addressing each clan and individual: “Redeem yourselves from Allah; I cannot protect you from Him in any way.”

Liars should be cautious at all times and in all places with regards to their Iman, beliefs, statements, and testimonies, as this lying may lead them to the abyss of destruction that has engulfed those liars before them.

And there is a lesson and good news for those who are truthful in their Iman, Islam, good deeds, statements, and testimonies, regarding salvation from destruction, as Kab and his companions, may Allah be pleased with them, attained salvation through truthfulness in a situation that tempted those with weak Iman and souls to lie. Allah said:

هذا يَوْمَ يَنْفَعُ الصَّادِقِينَ صِدْقُهُمْ لَهُمْ جنات الخري من تحتها الأنهار خالدين فيها أبدا رضي الله عنهمْ وَرَضُوا عَنْهُ ذَلِكَ الْفَوْزُ الْعَظِيمُ .

This is a Day on which the truthful will profit from their truth: theirs are Gardens under which rivers flow (in Paradise) – they shall abide therein forever. Allah is pleased with them and they with Him. That is the great success (Paradise). [Al-Ma’idah 119]

Narrated Talha bin Ubaidullah, may Allah be pleased with him: A man from Najd with unkempt hair came to Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and we heard his loud voice but could not understand what he was saying, till he came near and then we came to know that he was asking about Islam. Allah’s Messenger said, “You have to offer prayers perfectly five times in a day and night (24 hours).” The man asked, “Is there any more (prayers)?” Allah’s Messenger replied, “No, but if you want to offer the Nawafil prayers (you can).” Allah’s Messenger further said to him: “You have to observe fasts during the month of Ramadan.” The man asked, “Is there any more fasting?” Allah’s Messenger replied, “No, but if you want to observe the Nawafil fasts (you can.)” Then Allah’s Messenger further said to him, “You have to pay the Zakat (obligatory charity).” The man asked, “Is there any thing other than the Zakat for me to pay?” Allah’s Messenger replied, “No, unless you want to give alms of your own.” And then that man retreated saying, “By Allah! I will neither do less nor more than this.” Allah’s Messenger said, “If what he said is true, then he will be successful (i.e. he will be granted Paradise).” [Al-Bukhari 46]

It is reported in Sahih Muslim on the authority of Anas Ibn Malik, may Allah be pleased with him, who said: We were forbidden that we should ask anything (without the genuine need) from the Holy Prophet. It, therefore, pleased us that an intelligent person from the dwellers of the desert should come and asked him (the Prophet) and we should listen to it. A man from the dwellers of the desert came and said: “Muhammad, your messenger came to us and told us your assertion that verily Allah had sent you (as a prophet)”. He (the Prophet) said: “He told the truth”. He (the bedouin) said: “Who created the heaven?” He (the Prophet) replied: “Allah”. He (the bedouin again) said: “Who created the earth?” He (the Prophet) replied: “Allah”. He (the bedouin again) said: “Who raised these mountains and who created in them whatever is created there?” He (the Prophet) replied: “Allah”. Upon this he (the bedouin) remarked: “By Him Who created the heaven and created the earth and raised mountains thereupon, has Allah (in fact) sent you?” He (the Prophet) said: “Yes”. He (the bedouin) said: “Your messenger also told us that five prayers (had been made) obligatory for us during the day and the night”. He (the Prophet) remarked: “He told you the truth”. He (the bedouin) said: “By Him Who sent you, is it Allah Who ordered you about this (i. e. prayers)?” He (the Prophet) said: “Yes”. He (the bedouin) said: “Your messenger told us that Zakat had been made obligatory in our riches”. He (the Prophet) said. “He has told the truth”. He (the bedouin) said: “By Him Who sent you (as a prophet), is it Allah Who ordered you about it (Zakat)?” He (the Prophet) said: “Yes”. He (the bedouin) said: “Your messenger told us that it had been made obligatory for us to fast every year during the month of Ramadan”. He (the Prophet) said: “He has told the truth”. He (the bedouin) said: “By Him Who sent you (as a prophet), is it Allah Who ordered you about it (the fasts of Ramadan)?” He (the Prophet) said: “Yes”. He (the bedouin) said: “Your messenger also told us that pilgrimage (Hajj) to the House (of Ka’bah) had been made obligatory for him who is able to undertake the journey to it”. He (the Prophet) said: “Yes”. The narrator said that he (the bedouin) set off (at the conclusion of this answer, but at the time of his departure) remarked: “By Him Who sent you with the Truth, I would neither make any addition to them nor would I diminish anything out of them”. Upon this the Prophet remarked: “If he were true (to what he said) he must enter Paradise”. [Sahih Muslim 12]

These two intelligent questioners have been blessed by Allah with the gift of sound intellect, insight, and the ability to ask good questions, especially the latter of the two. It is said that he is Dhaman ibn Thalabah al-Hudhali. The first one asked Allah’s Messenger about the tenets of Islam, and the Prophet responded with what Allah has commanded His servants regarding the pillars of this religion after the two testimonies of faith, as the questioner appeared to be a Muslim. Thus, he was informed that Islam consists of these obligations.

The questioner acknowledged this and committed to it because he wanted to know if there is anything additional he must do beyond what he has mentioned regarding these pillars. The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, told him that there is nothing more required unless he chooses to perform voluntary acts. When the Prophet distinguished between obligatory acts and voluntary ones, the individual swore by Allah that he would neither add to nor subtract from those obligations. The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, responded by giving him and the Ummah glad tidings of great rewards for those who fulfill these obligations properly: “He will succeed if he is truthful,” meaning that his actions must align with his words. His success is contingent upon his honesty in both speech and action, and he is blessed for that..

The second questioner had a deeper and broader question than the first. Muhammad Ibn Ismail al-Asfahani al-Salafi, the author of “at-Tareer” said: “This is from fine manner of asking questions by this man’s and the elegance of its structure. He first sought confirmation of the truthfulness of the messenger sent by the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, to invite them to Islam, asking if he was indeed sent by Allah. The Prophet affirmed this. Then, he asked about the Creator of the heavens and the earth and who established the mountains, as he, like other Arabs, believed in the oneness of Allah’s Lordship.

The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, responded by saying: “Allah, Allah, Allah” in all of that. He then confirmed everything that the messenger of Allah’s Messenger conveyed to them regarding the religious acts of Islam, including prayer, almsgiving, and fasting, while the Messenger affirmed: “He (i.e. the one I sent to convey the message) spoke the truth, spoke the truth”, and so on. When the Messenger of Allah finished answering the man’s questions, the man said: “By the One who sent you with the truth, I will neither add to them nor take away from them.” The Messenger of Allah said: “If he is truthful, he will enter Paradise.”

Verily the fruits of truthfulness are great for the truthful person; the one trutrhful in belief, speech, and the application of the righteous actions based on what Allah and His Messenger have ordained. These are some of the fruits of truthfulness that guide – in this life – towards righteousness, which encompasses all good qualities, and enables one to attain high stations from Allah, residing eternally in gardens with rivers flowing beneath them, having achieved the greatest goal. And above these stations is Allah’s Pleasure whose fruits are guidance towards righteousness and ultimately to paradise. Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “Verily, truthfulness leads to righteousness and righteousness leads to Paradise. A man continues to be truthful and encourages honesty until he is recorded with Allah as truthful”.

From its fruits is to attain the success of receiving Allah’s Pleasure, then success in attaining paradise, where rivers flow beneath. This benefit becomes evident and manifest, Allah said:

هَٰذَا يَوْمُ يَنفَعُ ٱلصَّٰدِقِينَ صِدْقُهُمْ لَهُمْ جَنَّٰتٌ تَجْرِى مِن تَحْتِهَا ٱلْأَنْهَٰرُ خَٰلِدِينَ فِيهَآ أَبَدًا رَّضِىَ ٱللَّهُ عَنْهُمْ وَرَضُوا۟ عَنْهُ ذَٰلِكَ ٱلْفَوْزُ ٱلْعَظِيمُ

Allah will say: “This is a Day on which the truthful will profit from their truth: theirs are Gardens under which rivers flow (in Paradise) – they shall abide therein forever. Allah is pleased with them and they with Him. That is the great success (Paradise). [Al Maidah 119]

It is reported in Al-Bukhari and Muslim from Abu Sa’id Al-Khudri who said that the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said that Allah will say to the people of paradise: “O the people of Paradise!” They will say, ‘Labbaik, O our Lord, and Sa`daik, and all the good is in Your Hands!’ Allah will say, “Are you satisfied?’ They will say, ‘Why shouldn’t we be satisfied, O our Lord as You have given us what You have not given to any of Your created beings?’ He will say, ‘Shall I not give you something better than that?’ They will say, ‘O our Lord! What else could be better than that?’ He will say, ‘I bestow My Pleasure on you and will never be angry with you after that”. [Al-Bukhari 7518]

Congratulations to the truthful for this great success, eternal bliss, everlasting Pleasure of Allah, and eternal life. May Allah make us among them through His grace, favour, and mercy. Indeed, He is compassionate, merciful, generous, and kind. May peace be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and his companions.

Written by the one in need of Allah’s pardon and forgiveness.

Rabee’ Nin Hadi Umayr Al-Madkhali.

Arabic Text: sidq

The Importance of Truthfulness – By Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali [Part 7]

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

Al-Allamah Rabee bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah preserve him, continued….

Kab, may Allah be pleased with him, said: When this news reached me that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, was on his way back from Tabuk, I was greatly perturbed. I thought of fabricating false stories and asked myself how I would save myself from his anger on the following day. In this connection, I sought the help of every prudent man from amongst the members of my family and when it was said to me that Allah’s Messenger was about to arrive, all the false ideas banished (from my mind) and I came to the conclusion that nothing could save me but the telling of truth, so I decided to speak the truth and it was in the morning that Allah’s Messenger arrived (in Medina). And it was his habit that as he came back from a journey he first went to the mosque and observed two Rak’ahs of nafl prayer and then sat amongst people.

And as he did that, those who had remained behind him began to put forward their excuses and take an oath before him and they were more than eighty persons. Allah’s Messenger accepted their excuses on the very face of them and accepted their allegiance and sought forgiveness for them and left their secret (intentions) to Allah, until I presented myself to him. I greeted him and he smiled and there was a tinge of anger in that. He then said to me: “Come forward”. I went forward until I sat in front of him. He said to me: “What kept you back? Could you not afford to go in for a ride?” I said: “Allah’s Messenger, by Allah, if I were to sit in the presence of anybody else from amongst the people of the world, I would have definitely saved myself from his anger on one pretext (or the other) and I have also the knack to fall into argumentation, but, by Allah, I am fully aware of the fact that if I were to put forward before you a false excuse to please you, Allah would definitely provoke your wrath upon me, and if I speak the truth you may be annoyed with me, but I hope that Allah would make its end well and, by Allah, there is no valid excuse for me. By Allah, I never possessed so good means, and I never had such favourable conditions for me as I had when I stayed behind you (failed to join the expedition)”. Thereupon, Allah’s Messenger said: “This man told the truth, so get up until Allah gives a decision in your case”. I stood up. [end of hadith]

Indeed, they achieved success through the honour, victory, and rewards they received. So, what beneficial lesson comes from their absence from the Battle of Tabuk, even if it can be explained based on its reasons? In this part, he shared his new circumstances upon the Messenger’s return, revealing that he had not participated in the military campaign due to his desire for the shade and the fruits of the trees. No one else shared this lagging behind except for those steeped in hypocrisy, the weak, and those with legitimate excuses. His sincere discerning heart was burdened with the harshness of pain and sorrow, while at the same time, shaytan suggested to him and attempted to fill his soul with various types of lies; however, by Allah’s Grace and care for him, the darknesses of lies and falsehood were lifted from him due to his truthful faith and sincerity to Allah, the Lord of the entire existence, thus, Allah granted him the greatest means of salvation after faith, and that is truthfulness, especially in times of danger and overwhelming events.

He said, “When I was told that Allah’s Messenger was on his way back, the falsehood was removed from me, and I realised that nothing of it will never save me”. Thus, his truthfulness became more wholesome, as the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, arrived in the morning. He mentioned that Sunnah often overlooked or forgotten by many Muslims, which is to perform two Rak’ats in the Masjid upon a Muslim’s return from travel. He mentioned the situation of those who gave (lame) excuses (for their absence from the military expedition), meaning the hypocrites, who resorted to lies and falsehood, that they reinforced their lies with oaths, thus, the Prophet could only accept what they displayed apparently, and entrusted their true hidden intentions to Allah, the knower of unseen, who is aware of the treachery of the eyes and what the hearts conceal. However, Ka’b, may Allah be pleased with him, with his understanding and sound intellect, he recognised that lying to Allah’s Messenger, even when fortified by solemn oaths, would not spare him from the wrath of Allah and subsequently the anger of His Messenger. He discerned this truth through his keen insight and intellect after Allah had granted him this, thus, he refused any other thing besides openly declaring the clear reality. [Paraphrased. Refer to Arabic here: sidq ]

To be continued…InShaAllah

Some things the Qur’an constantly highlights for us to consider

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Featured, Jahannam (Hell Fire), Jannah (Paradise), Mental Health, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Prophets, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Repentance, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Uncategorized, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Allah, The Exalted, said:

وَإِنَّهُ لَتَذۡكِرَةٌ۬ لِّلۡمُتَّقِينَ

And verily, this Qur’an is a Reminder for the people who fear Allaah. [Al-Haaqqah. 48]

The Qur’an is a reminder for the people who fear Allah. The person who fears Allah is reminded through the Qur’aan, then enabled to see what is beneficial and harmful to him, thus, he pursues what is beneficial and avoids what is harmful.

The Qur’an reminds him of the Perfect Names, Attributes and Actions of his Lord, so he believes in them.

The Qur’an reminds him of Allah’s reward, punishment, threats, commands and prohibitions, and the amazing events through which Allah’s allies (were supported) and His enemies (destroyed).

The Qur’an reminds the pious person about his soul, the means to its purification, cleanliness and elevation, and what would defile, lower and disgrace it. He remembers, through the Qur’an, the knowledge related to the beginning of creation, the Hereafter, paradise and hell fire, and the knowledge about good and evil.

The Qur’an is a reminder about reality, a proof for humankind and Jinn, a benefit and source of good welfare (in all affairs of their life) and a guidance for those who seek knowledge. [1]

Allah, The Most High, said: [وَنُنَزِّلُ مِنَ ٱلۡقُرۡءَانِ مَا هُوَ شِفَآءٌ۬ وَرَحۡمَةٌ۬ لِّلۡمُؤۡمِنِينَ‌ۙ – And We send down from the Qur’an that which is a healing and a mercy to those who believe (in Islamic Monotheism and act on it)]. [Al-Israa. 82]

There are three statements (of the scholars) regarding the Qur’an being a healing: It is a healing for misguidance due to what it contains of guidance. It is healing for illnesses due to what it contains of blessings. It is healing due to its explanation and clarification of the obligatory duties and rulings of the religion. [2]

The Qur’an is a healing for the diseases of ignorance, doubt and scepticism. Allah has never revealed a cure that is neither more comprehensive and beneficial; nor greater and quicker in removing diseases than the Qur’an. [3]

The healing that the Qur’an contains deals with all (diseases) of the hearts, such the disease of Shubhah (a matter that is made to resemble truth but is falsehood in reality), ignorance, corrupt views, perversion and evil goals. This is because is founded on the Knowledge that is based on absolute certainty through which every ambiguity and ignorance is removed, and it contains an admonition and a reminder through which every desire that is in opposition to the command of Allaah is removed. It is a healing for the bodies against harmful things and illnesses. As for it being a mercy, it is due to the Asbaab [i.e. sound means] and Wasaa’il [i.e. paths] it guides to, which if the servant of Allah acts upon them, they will be successfully (receive) Mercy and an everlasting happiness- reward in this worldly life and everlasting reward in the Hereafter. [4]

The Qur’an combines between healing for the diseases of the heart, such as doubt, hypocrisy and other than that. It is a healing for the bodies when utilised for Ruqya, such as what took place in the story of the man who performed ruqya with Surah Al-Fatihah on a man who was stung and it is an authentic and well known story. [5]

Attention Given To The Qur’an By The Pious Predecessors

Abu Salamah, may Allah be pleased with him, said: Whenever Abu Musa, may Allah be pleased with him, sat with Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, he may say to him, “O Abu Musa! Remind”. So he recited. [6]

Abdullah Ibn Mas’ud, may Allah be pleased with him, said: Whoever is able to learn something from the Qur’an, let him do so. Indeed, the houses that are deprived of good the most are the ones where there is no recitation of Allah’s Book. This is because the houses where there is no recitation is like the demolished houses that have no inhabitants. Indeed shaytaan exits a house in which Surah Al Baqarah is heard. [7]

He also said: The hearts are receptacles so busy filling them with the Qur’aan and do not busy them with other than it. [8]

Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him and his father, said: It would be more beloved to me to recite Surah Al-Baqarah during the night than recite the Qur’an haphazardly. [9]

Ubayd Bin Ja’d, may Allah have mercy upon him, reported from a man from who said, “I heard the people in the towns saying that Salman Al-Farisi, may Allah be pleased with him, is in the Masjid, so they approached him until about a thousand people gathered. He stood up and said, “Sit down, sit down”. When they sat down, he started reciting Surah Yusuf, then the people began moving away and departing until about a hundred were left. He became angry and said, “So you wanted adorned speech, but then I recited to you the book of Allah and you left!” [10]

Masruq, may Allah have mery upon him, said: A man from the people of Makkah said to me, “This is the place where your brother Tameem Ad-Daaree, may Allah be pleased with him, used to stand. Indeed, one night I saw him until in the morning or nearly morning time, while he was crying and reciting: [أَمۡ حَسِبَ ٱلَّذِينَ يَعۡمَلُونَ ٱلسَّيِّـَٔاتِ أَن يَسۡبِقُونَا‌ۚ سَآءَ مَا يَحۡكُمُونَ – Or does those who do evil deeds think that they can outstrip Us (i.e. escape Our Punishment)? Evil is that which they judge! [Surah Al-Ankabut. Verse 4]” [11]

Muqatil Bin Hayyan, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: I once prayed behind Umar Bin Abdil Azeez, may Allah have mercy upon him; he read [وَقِفُوهُمۡ‌ۖ إِنَّہُم مَّسۡـُٔولُونَ- But stop them (i.e. when the wrong doers will be held to account on the day of judgement), verily they are to be questioned] [As-Saffaat. 24]. He kept on repeating it and was not able to go past it (i.e. due to the severity of what the verse meant). [12]

Maymun Bin Mihran, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: Once Umar Bin Abdul Azeez, may Allah have mercy upon him, cried after reciting the verse [أَلۡهَٮٰكُمُ ٱلتَّكَاثُرُ-The mutual rivalry for piling up of worldly things diverts you]. Then he recited [حَتَّىٰ زُرۡتُمُ ٱلۡمَقَابِرَ – until you visit the graves (i.e. till you die)]. Then he said, “I will not see the graves except as a visitor and the one who visits them must either be returned to paradise or hell”. [13]

Aamir Bin Abdil Qays, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: I don’t care what escapes me from the worldly things after knowing this verse:

وَمَا مِن دَآبَّةٍ۬ فِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ إِلَّا عَلَى ٱللَّهِ رِزۡقُهَا وَيَعۡلَمُ مُسۡتَقَرَّهَا وَمُسۡتَوۡدَعَهَا‌ۚ كُلٌّ۬ فِى ڪِتَـٰبٍ۬ مُّبِينٍ۬

And no (moving) living creature is there on earth but its provision is due from Allah. And He knows its dwelling place and its deposit (in the uterous, grave, etc.). all is in a Clear Book (Al-Lauh Al-Mahfuz – the Book of Decrees with Allah). [Hud. 6]

And Allah’s statement: [مَّا يَفۡتَحِ ٱللَّهُ لِلنَّاسِ مِن رَّحۡمَةٍ۬ فَلَا مُمۡسِكَ لَهَاۖ وَمَا يُمۡسِكۡ فَلَا مُرۡسِلَ لَهُ ۥ مِنۢ بَعۡدِهِۚ – Whatever of mercy (i.e. of good), Allah may grant to mankind, none can withhold it, and whatever He may withhold, none can grant it thereafter]. [Fatir. 2] [14]

Malik Bin Deenaar, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: When the Qur’an is recited to the truthful people, their hearts become enraptured by the Hereafter. [15]

Ibn Wahb, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: It was said to the sister of Malik Bin Deenaar, “What did Malik use to busy himself with in the house?” She replied, “With the Mushaf and recitation”. [16]

Imam Fudayl Ibn Iyaad, may Allah have mercy upon him, once cried after reading Allah’s statement: [أَلَمۡ نَجۡعَل لَّهُ ۥ عَيۡنَيۡنِ-Have We not made for him (i.e. the human) a pair of eyes?][ وَلِسَانً۬ا وَشَفَتَيۡنِ -And a tongue and a pair of lips?]. He was asked why he cried, he said, “Have you spent a night really thanking Allah (for giving) you  two eyes through which you can see and a tongue through which you speak?”  [17]

[1] at-Tibyaan Fee Aqsaamil Qur’an. 193-194

[2] Zaad Al-Masir Fee Ilm at-Tafsir By Imam Ibn Al-Jawzi—Tafseer Surah al-Israa

[3] Al-Jawaab Al-Kaafee page 4

[4] Tafsir As-Sadi

[5] Adwaa Al-Bayaan–Tafseer Surah Al-Israa Ayah 82

[6] Siyar Alam An-Nubulaa 1/280

[7] Hilyah Al-Awliyaa (Tahdheeb). 1/119

[8] Az-Zuhd 298. By Imam Ahmad

[9] Sifatus Safwa 1/372

[10] Hilyah Al-Awliyaa (Tahdheeb) 1/163

[11] Mawsu’ah 1/256-257 by Ibn Abee Dunyaa

[12] Mawsu’ah 3/255.

[13] Mawsu’ah 255.

[14] Mawsu’ah 1/279.

[15] Sifatus Safwa. 3/204

[16] Siyar A’laam An-Nubulaa 2/736

[17] Jami Al-Ulum Wal-Hikam. page 259

The Salafi is not afraid of criticism if his mistake truly exist

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Featured, 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.

The Salafi is not afraid of criticism or correcting his mistakes if they exist in reality, but he does not accept criticism devoid of proof

Khalid Bin Hayyaan narrated from Jafar Bin Burqaan, may Allah have mercy upon them, who said: Maymoon Bin Mihran, may Allah have mercy upon him said to me, “O Jafar! Say what I detest (i.e. the bitter truth) in my face since a man will not have (fulfilled) advice to his brother until he says in his face what he detests”. (1)

Umar Ibn Abdul Azeez, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: Whoever advises his brother to rectify affairs related to his religion and gives him insight into a worldly affair has perfected their relationship and fulfilled his obligation of (brotherhood) to him”. (2)

Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Speech about the people has to be with knowledge and justice, and not based on ignorance and oppression”. (3)

“The just among men is the one who informs of an affair the way it is; he neither adds to it and becomes a liar nor does he subtract from it and becomes a concealer”. (4)

The one who follows the path of justice will exalt the one worthy of being exalted and he will love and ally with him; he will give the truth its due right, exalt the truth and show mercy to the creation.(5)

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah preserve him, said: “The Salafiyyoon do not accept statements, except when they are based on evidence and proof”. (6)

The Shaikh also said:

When you speak about a Muslim, whether an individual who is a Mubtadi or a Sunni, firstly, examine yourself. What do you want through this speech? “Whoever believes in Allah and the last day should either speak good or remain silent”. If in this speech of yours there is good for the Muslims by warning them about this man, and your intention is to seek Allah’s Face, you intend to sincerely advice the ummah, then speak while being cautious of entering into personal desires and personal goals for revenge against this or that person. If the speech stem from an intention for revenge, this would be detrimental to the person (i.e the speaker) and would exceed the permissible allowance in this matter, whose initial basis is fundamentally prohibited. This is because Allah has forbidden backbiting and tale carrying, as these matters corrupt the lives of Muslims. A Muslim should resort to (such speech) only in cases of dire necessity. He does not unleash his tongue to speak freely. Instead, he only speaks out of necessity and when he knows completely that this matter is incumbent upon him and the people will benefit from it. May Allah bless you, be conscious (mindful) regarding this subject matter. (7)

(1) Siyar A’lam An-Nubulaa. 5/75

(2) Tarikh at-Tabari 6/572

(3) Minhaj As-Sunnah: 4/337

(4) Majmu 20/84

(5) Minhaj As-Sunnah 4/544

(6) Umdah Al-Abiy 417

(7) Fadl Al-Hajj Wat Talbiyah 43

The Importance of Truthfulness – By Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali [Part 5]

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

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah preserve him, continued…

Indeed, Allah has praised the companions of Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and has commended them a lot in His book; and His Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, has praised them in many Prophetic reports. One of the most prominent and evident characteristics attributed to them is truthfulness, without which neither the religion nor the worldly affairs will be established (in an upright manner). These truthful people, along with their successors, have – with absolute truthfulness and integrity- transmitted to us the text of the Quran (based on its successive, numerous unbroken and authentic chains of transmission from every generation), the authentic Sunnah of the Messenger, including both the reports (based on their successive, numerous unbroken and authentic chains of transmission from every generation) and the ones (based on their authentic chain from a single trustworthy narrator), in which are established – with authenticity – the biography of Allah’s Messenger, his Jihad and military expeditions. [Footnote a]

The authentic books, the Musannafaat, the Jawami, the Ma’aajim, the books of creed and and other than them are replete with these transmissions. The Imams of Al-Jarh Wat-Tadeel, have distinguished – in them – the sound narrations from the weak ones, ensuring that the Ummah remains on a straight path, an upright methodology, a conscious and rightly guided life. They transmitted the biography of the noble companions, their different statuses and virtues, which distinguished them among all the nations of the prophets, and through this they are indeed the best nation brought forth for humanity. The books on the virtues of the companions and their statuses, along with all the compilations of the Sunnah, are replete with such (lofty characteristics).

Allah’s general praise for them regarding their lofty characteristics and truthfulness being one of them has already been stated in this speech. However, this speech of mine cannot accommodate the mention of (all) authentic accounts of their truthfulness, instead I will provide an example involving three individuals who experienced a specific single incident. The Most prominent among these three is that noble companion, Ka’b ibn Malik – that man whom Allah saved from the hell fire, hypocrisy, the wrath of Allah and His Messenger through his truthfulness. His story is well-known, and although it is lengthy and cannot be fully recounted here, I will select excerpts that illustrate the status of this companion and his peers in this event, from which a Muslim can draw lessons and inspiration from these truthful individuals. [Paraphrased. Arabic text here: sidq ]

To be continued…InShaAllah.

—————————————–

Footnote a:

https://abukhadeejah.com/salafi-shaikh-fawzaan-on-jihaad-in-our-times-and-the-guidelines-of-jihaad-according-to-islam/

https://abukhadeejah.com/the-life-of-the-muhammad-in-madinah-treaties-conquests-and-his-death/

The Importance of truthfulness – By Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali [Part 1]

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

The Importance of truthfulness and its necessity for the (upright) establishment of the worldly and religious matters- By Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah preserve him

All praise is due to Allah, and may peace and blessings be upon Allah’s Messenger, his family, his companions, and those who follow his guidance. To proceed:

Indeed, the quality (trait) of truthfulness is one of the greatest foundations of both the religion and worldly matters; neither the worldly matters nor can the religion be upright through lies, betrayal, or deception. Truthfulness and (truthful) affirmation is the strong bond between the Messengers and those who believe in them. Allah, The Exalted, said:

وَالَّذِي جَاءَ بِالصِّدْقِ وَصَدَّقَ بِهِ ۙ أُولَٰئِكَ هُمُ الْمُتَّقُونَ
لَهُم مَّا يَشَاءُونَ عِندَ رَبِّهِمْ ۚ ذَٰلِكَ جَزَاءُ الْمُحْسِنِينَ

And he (Muhammad SAW) who has brought the truth (this Quran and Islamic Monotheism) and (those who) believed therein (i.e. the true believers of Islamic Monotheism), those are the pious. They shall have all that they will desire with their Lord. That is the reward of good-doers. [Az-Zumar 33-34]

He (Allah) stated about lies and denial (of truth):

فَمَنْ أَظْلَمُ مِمَّن كَذَبَ عَلَى اللَّهِ وَكَذَّبَ بِالصِّدْقِ إِذْ جَاءَهُ ۚ أَلَيْسَ فِي جَهَنَّمَ مَثْوًى لِّلْكَافِرِينَ

Then, who does more wrong than one who utters a lie against Allah, and denies the truth [this Quran, the Prophet (Muhammad), the Islamic Monotheism, the Resurrection and the reward or punishment according to good or evil deeds] when it comes to him! Is there not in Hell an abode for the disbelievers? [Az-Zumar 32]

Due to the station of truthfulness and (truthful) affirmation of truth – in the Sight of Allah, among rational people, the possessors of sound natural disposition- and their good outcomes; and (due to) the danger of lies and denial of truth, I wish to present this speech that is derived from Allah’s Book and the Sunnah of Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and from the biography and circumstances of some of the truthful and faithful companions of Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. I beseech Allah to assist and grant me the ability through everything I am able to provide advice and clarification to my fellow Muslims. And I ask Him to place us all among those who are truthful, eager to adhere to the truth, and steadfast upon it; and make all of us among those who love the truth and strive to follow it, and (truthfully) affirm it. [paraphrased] Refer to Arabic text: sidq

To be continued InShaAllah

Stance towards those who revile the pious predecessors

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Bid'ah (Innovation), Brotherhood, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Hadaadis, History of Islam, Khawaarij, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, Shi'a, Sufis, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Ali Ibn Shaqeeq, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: I heard Abdullah Ibn Al-Mubarak, may Allah have mercy upon him, saying in the midst of the people, “Abandon the narrations of Amr Bin Thabit because he used to revile the pious predecessors”. [Muslim 1/16]

Shaikh Jamal Bin Fareehaan, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “How about if Ibn Al-Mubarak was to appear amongst us; what would he have said about those who speak ill of the companions of the Messenger, such as the likes of Mawdudi, Sayyid Qutb, Tariq Suwaydaan, Hasan Bin Farhaan al-Maliki, Abul Hasan al-Maribi al-Misri and those who defend these people or keep silent about them!” [  لم الدر المنثور .page 143]