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Some Guidelines for Polite Entry Into Your Home and Others’ Homes

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Basics, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To 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'.

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

Knock Three Times When Visiting Someone 

Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri reported: “While I was in one of the gatherings of the Ansar, Abu Musa came as if he was scared, and said, ‘I asked permission to enter upon Umar three times and he did not give me permission, so I returned. (When Umar came to know about it) he said to Abu Musa, ‘Why did you not enter?’ Abu Musa said, ‘I asked permission to enter three times and was not given permission, so I went back, for the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, ‘When one of you asks for permission to enter three times and is not given it, he should go back’. He (Umar) said, ‘By Allah, you will bring witnesses for it’. (Abu Musa went to a gathering of the Ansaar) and said: ‘Is there any of you who heard it from the Prophet?’ Ubayy ibn Ka’b said, ‘By Allah, only the youngest of the people will go with you’. I was the youngest of the people and I went with him and informed Umar that the Prophet had said that. [Al-Bukhari 6245]

Imaam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: This [i.e. Umar asking for a witness] was for the purpose of verification because it is (related) to Ibaadaat (acts of worship). [1]

Mention Your Name When Asked, “Who is It?”

Narrated Jabir Bin Abdillah: I came to the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, in order to consult him regarding my father’s debt. When I knocked at the door, he asked, “Who is that?” I replied: “Me. He said: “Me”, “Me”. He repeated it as if he disliked it. [2]

Do Not Sneak In Your Houses

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

One of the etiquettes of entry into a house, even your own house in which your family lives, is that you walk while making some noise in order to notify them of your presence or entry. You should not enter in secret or unnoticed because that is tantamount to behaving badly towards them. [3]

[1] Al-Hulal Al-Ibreeziyyah Min at-Taliqat Al-Baaziyyah Alaa Sahih Al-Bukhari 4/185

[2]: Summarised Sahih Al-Bukhari (Publisher: Darussalaam) Hadeeth Number 2063; page: 968-969

[3] Source: It’haf at-Tullab Bi-Sharh Mandhumah Al-Aadaab’ page 145

Core Psychopathic Traits of Extreme Corrupters On The Earth

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Featured, Fitnah, Mental Health, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Refutations, Scholars of Islam, Sin.

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

Arrogant hypocrites, argue without truth, lying, wilfully reject guidance, and destroys while believing themselves to be right etc 

Allah, The Most High, said:

وَإِذَا قِيلَ لَهُمْ لَا تُفْسِدُوا۟ فِى ٱلْأَرْضِ قَالُوٓا۟ إِنَّمَا نَحْنُ مُصْلِحُونَ
أَلَآ إِنَّهُمْ هُمُ ٱلْمُفْسِدُونَ وَلَٰكِن لَّا يَشْعُرُونَ

And when it is said to them, “Do not cause corruption on the earth (through your disbelief, sin, treachery, and sedition against those who believe),” they say, “Indeed, we are but reformers (who rectify and make peace).” Indeed, they are the ones who are the mischief-makers (in reality), but they perceive this not (due to their ignorance, disbelief, and arrogance). [1]

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

First, they are declared as liars in their claim.

Secondly, a notification that they are corrupt.

Thirdly, attributed to the root of corruption with the confirmation of their true nature as corrupt individuals.

Finally, declared as very ignorant, signifying their complete lack of self-awareness regarding their corrupt behaviour. [2]

Allah said:

وَمِنَ ٱلنَّاسِ مَن يُعۡجِبُكَ قَوۡلُهُ ۥ فِى ٱلۡحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنۡيَا وَيُشۡهِدُ ٱللَّهَ عَلَىٰ مَا فِى قَلۡبِهِۦ وَهُوَ أَلَدُّ ٱلۡخِصَامِ
وَإِذَا تَوَلَّىٰ سَعَىٰ فِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ لِيُفۡسِدَ فِيهَا وَيُهۡلِكَ ٱلۡحَرۡثَ وَٱلنَّسۡلَ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ لَا يُحِبُّ ٱلۡفَسَادَ
وَإِذَا قِيلَ لَهُ ٱتَّقِ ٱللَّهَ أَخَذَتۡهُ ٱلۡعِزَّةُ بِٱلۡإِثۡمِ‌ۚ فَحَسۡبُهُ ۥ جَهَنَّمُ‌ۚ وَلَبِئۡسَ ٱلۡمِهَادُ

And of mankind there is he whose speech may please you (O Muhammad), in this worldly life, and he calls Allah to witness as to that which is in his heart, yet he is the most quarrelsome of the opponents. And when he turns away, his effort in the land is to make mischief therein and to destroy the crops and the cattle, and Allah likes not mischief. And when it is said to him, “Fear Allah”, he is led by arrogance to (more) crime. So enough for him is Hell, and worst indeed is that place to rest! [Al-Baqarah. 204-206]

وَمِنَ ٱلنَّاسِ مَن يُعۡجِبُكَ قَوۡلُهُ ۥ فِى ٱلۡحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنۡيَا

And of mankind there is he whose speech may please you in this worldly life.

Meaning, the one who hears his speech is pleased when he speaks and he thinks that he has uttered beneficial speech.

He emphasises what he says:

وَيُشۡهِدُ ٱللَّهَ عَلَىٰ مَا فِى قَلۡبِهِ

And he calls Allah to witness as to that which is in his heart.

Meaning, he states that Allaah knows that what is in his heart agrees with what he says, even though he is lying regarding what he says because his speech contradicts his deeds. His speech would have agreed with his deeds had he being truthful, because this the case regarding the believers- those who are not hypocrites. And due to this Allaah said:

وَهُوَ أَلَدُّ ٱلۡخِصَامِ

Yet he is the most quarrelsome of the opponents.

Meaning, when you disagree with him, you’ll find him to be the most quarrelsome, bigoted and difficult person to deal with, as well as the ugly characteristics that results from this behaviour, which are the opposite of the manners of the believers- those who make ease their way, submit to the truth and pardon people.

وَإِذَا تَوَلَّىٰ سَعَىٰ فِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ لِيُفۡسِدَ فِيهَا وَيُهۡلِكَ ٱلۡحَرۡثَ وَٱلنَّسۡلَ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ لَا يُحِبُّ ٱلۡفَسَادَ

And when he turns away, his effort in the land is to make mischief therein and to destroy the crops and the cattle, and Allah likes not mischief.

Meaning, when this person – the one whose speech amazes you – is not in your presence, he strives to commit sins which is tantamount to corruption in the earth, so cattle and crops are destroyed as a result of that corruption. The blessings in the vegetations, fruits and livestock decrease and become little due to evil deeds.

وَٱللَّهُ لَا يُحِبُّ ٱلۡفَسَادَ

And Allah likes not mischief.

Meaning, when it is the case that Allah does not like corruption, then He has an intense hatred for the person who sows corruption in the earth, even if such a person utters a good speech merely on the tongue (i.e. says one thing and does something else).

This verse contains proof regarding the fact that the statements uttered by individuals is not a proof regarding their truthfulness or whether they are upon falsehood, neither that they are righteous nor wicked until deeds ascertain them. And it is obligatory to examine the condition of those who bear witness, the one who is in the right and the falsifier amongst the people based on the righteousness of their deeds – examine the clear indications and their behaviour, and not to be deceived by how they portray themselves and the praise they give themselves. Then Allah mentioned that when this person – the one who causes corruption in the earth through acts of disobedience to Allah – is commanded to fear Allah, he becomes arrogant and haughty:

 أَخَذَتۡهُ ٱلۡعِزَّةُ بِٱلۡإِثۡمِ‌ۚ

He is led by arrogance to (more) crime.

Thus, he combines between disobedience to Allah and being arrogant towards the sincere advisers. [3]

[1] https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/verse/2/11 https://www.thenoblequran.com/q/#/verse/2/12

[2] Bada’i at-Tafseer 1/97

[3] An Excerpt from Tafsir As-Sadi

Gentleness In The Households Is a Sign of Goodness

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Family & Women, Featured, Marriage (Nikkah), Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Prophets, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Aa’isha, may Allah be pleased with her, narrated that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said to her: “O Aa’isha! Be gentle, for indeed when Allah wishes good for a household, He guides them to gentleness”.

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

This hadith contains proof regarding the fact that it is obligatory to give sincere advice and the first people one should give sincere advice is the members of the household- the wives, sons, daughters and others. Also, this hadith contains proof regarding the virtue of gentleness in all matters, for indeed gentleness is not found in any matter except that it beautifies it, and it is not removed from anything except that it ruins it. On the other hand, the opposite of gentleness is warn against and it is the harshness that is applied in other than its rightful place, because its end result will be alienation and disharmony. [1]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymin, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: If a person says:

“What will make a man love his wife and vice versa?”

We say: Allah has clarified this in His statement:

وَعَاشِرُوهُنَّ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ

And live with them honourably. [An-Nisaa. 19]

If every person lives with his wife honourably and vice versa, then love, a strong bond and a happy married life will be established.

[Fataawaa Noor Alad-Darb 6/29. Abridged]

[1]at-Ta’liqat Al-Malihah Alaa Silsilah Al-Ahadith As-Sahihah. 1/277.

Verse 12 Surah Al-Hujurat

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

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

Allah, The Most High, said:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُوا اجْتَنِبُوا كَثِيرًا مِنْ الظَّنِّ إِنَّ بَعْضَ الظَّنِّ إِثْمٌ

O you who believe! Avoid much suspicions, indeed some suspicions are sins. [Al-Hujuraat.  12]

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

Allah, The Most High, forbids much evil suspicion towards the believers, because some suspicions are tantamount to sin, such as the suspicion that is devoid of reality and indications that point to the validity of something, and the suspicion that is accompanied by much forbidden speech and deeds, because the settlement of evil suspicion in the heart does not stop at that; rather it does not cease until the person utters and does that which is not permissible”.

Tafseer As-Sadi

The Humble Beginnings of The Prophet’s Masjid

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Featured, History of Islam, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Prophets, 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.

Anas Bin Malik, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated:

“We used to pray with the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, in scorching heat, and if one of us could not put his face on the earth (because of the heat), he would spread his clothes and prostrate over them”. [1]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him] mentioned that according to some scholars, this happened before the order to delay prayer in extreme heat. The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, observed that it was difficult for people to perform Sujud on the hot ground, so he instructed them to delay the prayer until the weather was cooler. Some scholars explained that “in scorching heat” refers to a day that is very hot and the stone or the thing with which (the floor) of the Masjid is covered becomes too hot to prostrate on, even if the weather itself is not intensely hot. This is an explanation from another angle. [2]

Abu Salamah, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated: I asked Abu Sa’eed, may Allah be pleased with him, and he was a friend of mine, (about the Night of Qadr) and he said: “We practiced I’tikaf in the middle third of the month of Ramadan with the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. In the morning of the 20th of Ramadan, the Prophet came and addressed us and said, “I was informed of (the date of the Night of Qadr) but I was caused to forget it; so search for it in the odd nights of the last ten nights of the month of Ramadan. (In the dream) I saw myself prostrating in mud and water (as a sign). So, whoever was in I’tikaf with me should return to it with me (for another 10 days)”, and we returned. At that time there was no sign of clouds in the sky but suddenly a cloud came and it rained till rainwater started leaking through the roof of the Masjid which was made of date palm leaf stalks. Then the prayer was established and I saw Allah’s Messenger prostrating in mud and water and I saw the traces of mud on his forehead.” [3]

[1] al-Bukhari. 1208

[2] Paraphrased: https://www.alathar.net/home/esound/index.php?op=codevi&coid=43481

[3] al-Bukhari 2016

 

Some Key Factors for Security and Peaceful Coexistence

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

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

Anas, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“Whoever possesses the following three qualities will have the (delight) of faith: The one whom Allah and His Messenger become dearer to him than anything else; the one who loves a person and he loves him only for the sake of Allah, and the one who hates to revert to disbelief as he hates to be thrown into the fire”. [Al-Bukhari 16]

Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“There are not two people who love each other for the sake of Allah, and then they split from each other, except that it is due to a sin of one of them”.

Al-Allaamah Zaid Bin Haadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercy upon him, commented as follows:

This Hadith shows that to love one another, the religious and worldly benefits it contains is legislated in the Shariah. Regarding the religious benefits of this love, (it brings about) cooperation upon righteousness and piety. As for its worldly benefits, it (leads to the attainment of) necessities of life that are sought after. Those who love one another are attached to each other and remain upon that until one of them commits a sin that leads to the destruction of this legislated love- the love that was established for the sake of Allah and for the sake of Islamic brotherhood. Therefore, it is a good thing that the person abandons the sin he committed, which was the cause of separation between them, so that brotherhood for the sake of Allah is restored as it was before, and so that both the religious and worldly benefits of that brotherly love can continue. The basis of the sin committed by one of them may have occurred without any external influence, or it may have occurred due to tale-carrying and instigated by some of the devils amongst mankind- those who hasten to caused corruption in the earth.

Loving one another for the sake of Allah carries reward that has been mentioned in the Shariah texts. Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Allaah will give shade to seven on the day when there will be no shade but His”…and amongst those people are: “Two people who love each other only for the sake of Allah and they meet and part in Allah’s cause only”. [Awnul Ahadis Samad Sharhu Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 1/445-446]

Abdullah Bin Amr, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“Whoever would love to be delivered from Hellfire and admitted into Paradise, let him meet his end whilst believing in Allah and the Last Day, and let him treat people as he would love to be treated”. [(1)]

Imam An-Nawawi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: This is from the Jawami al-Kalim of the Prophet [i.e. precise speech with a comprehensive meaning] and his amazing wisdom. It is obligatory to pay close attention to this important principle and that a person must not deal with the people except in a way he loves to be dealt with. [(2)]

Al-Allamah Zayd Bin Hadi Al-Madkhali, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: A Muslim is to give consideration to his Muslim brothers in the same way he would give consideration to himself- wishing for them the good he wishes for himself and hates that evil should touch them just as he hates that for himself. The one who loves that the people should approach him with good related to the worldly affairs and affairs related to the Afterlife, then it is obligated on him to do the same for them, so that the statement of the Prophet, “You cannot (truly) believe until you wish for your brother what you wish for yourself” becomes a reality in his personality; and also the statement of the Prophet, “The believer in relation to another believer is like a structure, each part strengthening the other”. And also the statement of the Prophet, “The Muslim is the brother of another Muslim”. Whoever is able to have these characteristics, then indeed he has established Iman (in this affair), good manners and good dealings. [(3)]

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

And from the signs of well-being and success is that whenever the slave is increased in his knowledge, he increases in humility and mercy; and whenever he is increased in action, he increases in his fear and caution; and whenever his age is increased, he decreases in eagerness; and whenever he is increased in wealth, he increases in his generosity and spending; and whenever his status and honour is increased, he increases in coming close to the people, in fulfilling their needs and being humble in (their presence). And the signs of wretchedness are: Whenever he is increased in knowledge, he increases in pride and haughtiness; and whenever he is increased in actions, he increases in his boasting, mockery of the people and having a good opinion of himself; and whenever he is increased in his status and honour, he increases in pride and haughtiness. These affairs of [well-being and wretchedness] are a trial and a test from Allah by way of which He puts His slaves to trial. He brings about well-being and wretchedness to a people by way of these affairs. [(4)]

Imam Muhammad Al-Amin Ash-Shanqeetee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Contemplate what the great leader [Muhammad (peace blessings of Allah be upon him)] has been commanded and how he should deal with his society. Allah, The Most High, said:

فَبِمَا رَحْمَةٍ مِّنَ ٱللَّهِ لِنتَ لَهُمْ وَلَوْ كُنتَ فَظًّا غَلِيظَ ٱلْقَلْبِ لَٱنفَضُّوا۟ مِنْ حَوْلِكَ فَٱعْفُ عَنْهُمْ وَٱسْتَغْفِرْ لَهُمْ وَشَاوِرْهُمْ فِى ٱلْأَمْرِ

And by the Mercy of Allah, you dealt with them gently. And had you been severe and harsh-hearted, they would have broken away from about you; so pass over (their faults), and ask (Allah’s) Forgiveness for them; and consult them in the affairs. [Aal Imran. 159]

Contemplate what a person has been commanded and how he should deal with his leader. Allah [The Most High] said:

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوٓا۟ أَطِيعُوا۟ ٱللَّهَ وَأَطِيعُوا۟ ٱلرَّسُولَ وَأُو۟لِى ٱلْأَمْرِ مِنكُمْ

O you who believe! Obey Allah and obey the Messenger (Muhammad), and those of you (Muslims) who are in authority]. [An-Nisaa.59] [Footnote a]

Contemplate what a person has been commanded to do (in order to safeguard close members) of his society, such as his children and wife. Allah [The Most High] said:

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ قُوٓا۟ أَنفُسَكُمْ وَأَهْلِيكُمْ نَارًا وَقُودُهَا ٱلنَّاسُ وَٱلْحِجَارَةُ عَلَيْهَا مَلَٰٓئِكَةٌ غِلَاظٌ شِدَادٌ لَّا يَعْصُونَ ٱللَّهَ مَآ أَمَرَهُمْ وَيَفْعَلُونَ مَا يُؤْمَرُونَ

O you who believe! Ward off from yourselves and your families a Fire (Hell) whose fuel is men and stones, over which are (appointed) angels stern (and) severe, who disobey not, (from executing) the Commands they receive from Allah, but do that which they are commanded. [at-Tahreem. 6]

Contemplate how (the Qur’an) has informed the person about cautiousness and resoluteness when dealing his (close) social group in particular- that if he comes across what is not befitting, he is commanded to pardon and forgive. Firstly, the Qur’an commands him to be cautious and resolute, and secondly, it commands him to pardon and forgive. Allah [The Most High] said:

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوٓا۟ إِنَّ مِنْ أَزْوَٰجِكُمْ وَأَوْلَٰدِكُمْ عَدُوًّا لَّكُمْ فَٱحْذَرُوهُمْ وَإِن تَعْفُوا۟ وَتَصْفَحُوا۟ وَتَغْفِرُوا۟ فَإِنَّ ٱللَّهَ غَفُورٌ رَّحِيمٌ

O you who believe! Verily, among your wives and your children there are enemies for you (i.e. may stop you from the obedience of Allah), therefore beware of them! But if you pardon (them) and overlook, and forgive (their faults), then verily, Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful. [at-Taghabun. 14]

Contemplate how individuals in society have been commanded to deal with one another in general. Allah (The Most High) said:

إِنَّ ٱللَّهَ يَأْمُرُ بِٱلْعَدْلِ وَٱلْإِحْسَٰنِ وَإِيتَآئِ ذِى ٱلْقُرْبَىٰ وَيَنْهَىٰ عَنِ ٱلْفَحْشَآءِ وَٱلْمُنكَرِ وَٱلْبَغْىِ يَعِظُكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَذَكَّرُونَ

Verily, Allah enjoins Al-Adl (i.e. justice and worshipping none but Allah Alone – Islamic Monotheism) and Al-Ihsan [i.e. to be patient in performing your duties to Allah, totally for Allah’s sake and in accordance with the Sunnah (legal ways) of the Prophet in a perfect manner], and giving (help) to kith and kin (i.e. all that Allah has ordered you to give them e.g., wealth, visiting, looking after them, or any other kind of help, etc.): and forbids Al-Fahsha’ (i.e. all evil deeds, e.g. illegal sexual acts, disobedience of parents, polytheism, to tell lies, to give false witness, to kill a life without right, etc.), and Al-Munkar (i.e. all that is prohibited by Islamic law: polytheism of every kind, disbelief and every kind of evil deeds, etc.), and Al-Baghy (i.e. all kinds of oppression), He admonishes you, that you may take heed. [An-Nahl. 90]

Allah [The Most High] said:

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ ٱجْتَنِبُوا۟ كَثِيرًا مِّنَ ٱلظَّنِّ إِنَّ بَعْضَ ٱلظَّنِّ إِثْمٌ وَلَا تَجَسَّسُوا۟ وَلَا يَغْتَب بَّعْضُكُم بَعْضًا

O you who believe! Avoid much suspicions, indeed some suspicions are sins. And spy not, neither backbite one another.[Al-Hujuraat. 12] [Footnote b]

Allah said:

يَٰٓأَيُّهَا ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ لَا يَسْخَرْ قَوْمٌ مِّن قَوْمٍ عَسَىٰٓ أَن يَكُونُوا۟ خَيْرًا مِّنْهُمْ وَلَا نِسَآءٌ مِّن نِّسَآءٍ عَسَىٰٓ أَن يَكُنَّ خَيْرًا مِّنْهُنَّ وَلَا تَلْمِزُوٓا۟ أَنفُسَكُمْ وَلَا تَنَابَزُوا۟ بِٱلْأَلْقَٰبِ بِئْسَ ٱلِٱسْمُ ٱلْفُسُوقُ بَعْدَ ٱلْإِيمَٰنِ وَمَن لَّمْ يَتُبْ فَأُو۟لَٰٓئِكَ هُمُ ٱلظَّٰلِمُونَ

O you who believe! Let not a group scoff at another group, it may be that the latter are better than the former; nor let (some) women scoff at other women, it may be that the latter are better than the former, nor defame one another, nor insult one another by nicknames. How bad is it, to insult one’s brother after having Faith [i.e. to call your Muslim brother (a faithful believer) as: “O sinner”, or “O wicked”, etc.]. And whosoever does not repent, then such are indeed Zalimun (wrong-doers, etc.). [Al-Hujuraat. 11]

Allah said:

وَتَعَاوَنُوا۟ عَلَى ٱلْبِرِّ وَٱلتَّقْوَىٰ وَلَا تَعَاوَنُوا۟ عَلَى ٱلْإِثْمِ وَٱلْعُدْوَٰنِ

Help you one another in Al-Birr and At-Taqwa (virtue, righteousness and piety); but do not help one another in sin and transgression. [Al-Maa’idah. 2] [Footnote c]

Allah said: [إِنَّمَا ٱلْمُؤْمِنُونَ إِخْوَةٌ – The believers are nothing else than brothers (in Islamic religion). [Al-Hujuraat. 10]

Allah said: [وَأَمْرُهُمْ شُورَىٰ بَيْنَهُمْ – And who (conduct) their affairs by mutual consultation. [Ash-Shuraa 38] [Footnote d]

When it is the case that the individuals of a society are not safe – regardless who they may be-from the hostility and enmity of others in their Jinn or human society, and it is the case that every individual is in need of a remedy for this problem whose trial affects everyone, therefore Allah [The Most High] clearly prescribed its remedy in three places in His Book. The remedy for human hostility is that (a person) should turn away from the hostile one and responds to them with what is better. Allah [The Most High] said in Surah Al-A’raf 199: [خُذِ ٱلْعَفْوَ وَأْمُرْ بِٱلْعُرْفِ وَأَعْرِضْ عَنِ ٱلْجَٰهِلِينَ – Show forgiveness, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the foolish (i.e. don’t punish them].

Allah said Surah Al-Muminun 96:

ٱدْفَعْ بِٱلَّتِى هِىَ أَحْسَنُ ٱلسَّيِّئَةَ نَحْنُ أَعْلَمُ بِمَا يَصِفُونَ

Repel evil with that which is better. We are Best-Acquainted with the things they utter].

Allah [The Most High] made it more evident that this divine remedy cuts off this satanic ailment and He also made it more (evident) that this divine (remedy) is not bestowed upon every person, except a person who has been granted in abundance and a great portion (of the happiness in the Hereafter). Allah [The Most High] said:

ٱدْفَعْ بِٱلَّتِى هِىَ أَحْسَنُ فَإِذَا ٱلَّذِى بَيْنَكَ وَبَيْنَهُۥ عَدَٰوَةٌ كَأَنَّهُۥ وَلِىٌّ حَمِيمٌ
وَمَا يُلَقَّىٰهَآ إِلَّا ٱلَّذِينَ صَبَرُوا۟ وَمَا يُلَقَّىٰهَآ إِلَّا ذُو حَظٍّ عَظِيمٍ

Repel (the evil) with one which is better (i.e. Allah ordered the faithful believers to be patient at the time of anger, and to excuse those who treat them badly), then verily! he, between whom and you there was enmity, (will become) as though he was a close friend. But none is granted it (the above quality) except those who are patient, and none is granted it except the owner of the great portion (of the happiness in the Hereafter i.e. Paradise and in this world of a high moral character)” [Fussilat. 34-35]

And there is no remedy against a devil amongst the Jinn except through seeking refuge with Allah. Allah [The Most High] said:

وَإِمَّا يَنزَغَنَّكَ مِنَ ٱلشَّيْطَٰنِ نَزْغٌ فَٱسْتَعِذْ بِٱللَّهِ إِنَّهُۥ سَمِيعٌ عَلِيمٌ

And if an evil whisper comes to you from Shaitan (Satan) then seek refuge with Allah. Verily, He is All-Hearer, All-Knower]. [Al-A’raf 200]

Allah [The Most High] said Surah Al-Muminun 97-98]:

وَقُل رَّبِّ أَعُوذُ بِكَ مِنْ هَمَزَٰتِ ٱلشَّيَٰطِينِ
وَأَعُوذُ بِكَ رَبِّ أَن يَحْضُرُونِ

And say: “My Lord! I seek refuge with You from the whisperings (suggestions) of the Shayatin (devils). “And I seek refuge with You, My Lord! lest they may attend (or come near) me.”

Allah [The Most High] said:

وَإِمَّا يَنزَغَنَّكَ مِنَ ٱلشَّيْطَٰنِ نَزْغٌ فَٱسْتَعِذْ بِٱللَّهِ إِنَّهُۥ هُوَ ٱلسَّمِيعُ ٱلْعَلِيمُ

And if an evil whisper from Shaitan (Satan) tries to turn you away (O Muhammad) (from doing good, etc.), then seek refuge in Allah. Verily, He is the All-Hearer, the All-Knower. [Fussilat, 36] [An Excerpt from ‘Al-Islam Deenun Kaamilun. Pages: 10-12]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al- Uthaimeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, on Interacting With Non-Muslims in Western Countries

The Imam said during a tele-link, on the 28th July 2000:

Likewise, I invite you to have respect for those people who have the right to be respected – those between you and whom there is an agreement (of protection) [i.e. Non-Muslims]. For the land in which you are living is such that there is an agreement between you and them. If this were not the case they would have killed or expelled you. So preserve this agreement, and do not prove treacherous to it, since treachery is a sign of the hypocrites, and it is not from the way of the believers.

And know that it is authentically reported from the Prophet that he said : “Whoever kills one who is under and agreement of protection will not smell the fragrance of Paradise.”

Do not be fooled by those sayings of the foolish people: those who say: “Those people are Non-Muslims, so their wealth is lawful for us [i.e. to misappropriate or take by way of murder and killing.]” For by Allah, this is a lie – a lie about Allah’s Religion, and a lie in Islamic societies.

So we may not say that it is lawful to be treacherous towards people whom we have an agreement with.

O my brothers! O youth! O Muslims! Be truthful in your buying and selling, and renting, and leasing, and in all mutual transactions, because truthfulness is from the characteristics of the believers, and Allah – the Most High – has commanded truthfulness – saying:

“O you who believe – fear and keep you duty to Allaah and be with the truthful”

And the Prophet encouraged truthfulness and said “Adhere to truthfulness, because truthfulness leads to righteousness, and righteousness leads to Paradise; and a person will continue to be truthful, and strive to be truthful until he will be recorded in the sight of Allah as a truthful person“. And he warned against falsehood, and said: “Beware of lying, because lying leads to wickedness, and wickedness leads to the Fire. And a person will continue lying, and striving to lie until he is written in the sight of Allaah as a liar.”

O my brother Muslims! O youth! Be true in your statements with your brothers, and with those Non-Muslims with whom you live, so that you will be inviters to the religion of Islam through your actions and in reality. How many people there are who first entered into Islam because of the behaviour and manners of the Muslims, and their truthfulness, and their being true in their dealings! [salafipublications.com]

We ask Allah:

 اللهمَّ كما حسَّنتَ خَلقي فحسِّنْ خُلُقي

O Allah! Just as you have made my physical appearance beautiful, make my manners beautiful.

———————————————-

Footnote a:

Believer’s Bahaviour Towards Muslim Rulers – [Supplicates For Them….]

Footnote b: Imam As-Sadi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: Allah [The Most High] has forbidden much evil suspicion towards the believers because some suspicions are sins, such as the suspicion devoid of reality and factual evidence, and the suspicion accompanied by much forbidden speech and action, for indeed the settlement of evil suspicion in the heart does not restrict the one (in whose heart is that evil suspicion) only to that; rather, he does not cease until he utters and does that which is not permissible. [Tafseer As-Sadi]

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: Not every suspicion is a sin and there is no harm regarding the suspicion that is based on clear indications regarding the validity of a matter. As for mere assumption, it is not permissible. For example, if a man – who is known to be upright – is seen with a woman by another man, it not permissible to accuse him that the woman he is seen with is a stranger because this is the type of suspicion that is tantamount to sin. [Fataawaa Islaamiyyah 4/537]

Spying: The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, “Whoever listens to the talk of some people who do not like him (to listen) or they run away from him, then molten lead will be poured into his ears on the Day of Resurrection”. [Sahih Al-Bukhaari Number 7042].

Al-Allaamah Saleh Al-Fawzan, may Allah preserve him, said, “This is a severe threat, so one should not listen to the speech of the people if they do not want anyone to know what they are talking about”. [An Excerpt from It’haaf At-Tullaab Bi-Sharhi Mandhoomah Al-Aadaab. page 149]

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

It may be that two or more people gather to speak about a particular affair that concerns them, and they do not want anyone else to know about it; but then a person or more than one person becomes an obstacle by listening to their speech and [wants] to know what they are talking about, whilst they are not pleased with that. This is an act of transgression and foolishness – that a person involves himself into something that does not concern him. And from the perfection of a person’s Islam is to leave that which does not concern him. However, there is an exception to this prohibition such as when a person listens into the speech of those who are focused or (involved) in seeking to breach the state of safety and security of the Muslims”. [An Excerpt from ‘Awnul Ahadis Samad Sharh Al-Adabil Mufrad’ 3/281]

Backbiting: Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said, ‘’Do you know what backbiting is?’’ They (i.e. the Sahaabah) replied Allah and his Messenger know best’’; he said said, “It is to mention your brother what he dislikes’’. Someone asked, ‘’What if what I said is true?’’ He replied, “If what you said about him is true you have backbitten him, and if it is not true you have slandered him’’. [Muslim]

When is speaking about someone behind his back not considered backbiting? It is not considered backbiting when a person makes a complaint about an oppressor to a person who has the ability to stop the oppression; when seeking help to stop an evil- by making that known to the person who has the ability to stop the evil; when seeking for a fatwa; when warning the Muslims so that they are not deceived; when mentioning a person who commits his evil openly or one who calls to bidah and when identifying someone with a physical defect, whilst not intending defamation. [Subul As-Salaam. 4/553]

Footnote c: Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: This verse contains all the Masaalih (things that will bring about benefit and repel harm) for the servants of Allah in their worldly affairs and in the Hereafter – amongst themselves or reharding their relationship with their Lord. This is because every servant of Allah finds himself within two circumstances and obligations – either to fulfil the obligations owed to Allah or the obligations owed to Allah’s creation. As for the obligations owed to the creation, they include (righteous) association, companionship, aiding one another in Allah loves and obedience to Allah, and that is the goal behind one’s search for happiness and success in the afterlife. There can be no happiness in the afterlife except through Bir and Taqwaa because it is basis of all affairs of the religion. [An Excerpt from Bada’i at-Tafsir Al-Jaami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim Al-Jawziyyah. 1/307. Publisher: Daar Ibn Al-Jawziyyah 2nd Edition. 1431AH]

Footnote d: Consultation: Al-Hasan al-Basree [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: “By Allah! Never have a people sought advice except that they were guided to the best of what was available to them.” Then he recited [the statement of Allaah]:

[وَأَمۡرُهُمۡ شُورَىٰ بَيۡنَہُمۡ – And (the Believers) who (conduct) their affairs by mutual consultation].

Al-Allamah Zaid Bin Haadee Al-Mad’khalee [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: Allah [The Mighty and Majestic] commanded His Messenger Muhammad [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] to consult his companions in some affairs. Allah [Glorified be He and free is He from all imperfections] said:

وَشَاوِرۡهُمۡ فِى ٱلۡأَمۡرِ‌ۖ فَإِذَا عَزَمۡتَ فَتَوَكَّلۡ عَلَى ٱللَّهِ‌ۚ

“And consult them in the affairs. Then when you have taken a decision, put your trust in Allah”.

He [i.e. the Messenger] is the example to be followed by the Ummah, therefore when it is the case that Allah commanded him to consult his companions, then there is even a greater reason that the Muslims are in need of consultation amongst themselves. When a difficulty that is related to a Muslim’s religious and worldly affairs occurs, then indeed it is fitting that he consults someone whom he considers reliable, wise, truthful and sincere. He examines [the advice] given by that person, then he makes a choice – either to take that advice or decides not to take it based on what he is satisfied with, in relation to his personal affairs.

The hadeeth places emphasis on the fact that consultation guides to the best outcomes, and due to this it is said: ”The one who consults [others] does not regret [thereafter InShaaAllaah] and the one who performs Istikhaarah will not fail [to achieve good]”. Both Istikhaarah and consultation are legislated and a lot of good is achieved by way of them, as opposed to when affairs are pursued in a rigid and haphazard manner, for indeed this might lead to regret and harm. [An Excerpt from ‘Awnul Ahadis Samad Sharh Al-Adab Al-Mufrad’ 1/285]

[1] Ṣaḥih Muslim 1844]
[2] Sharh Sahih Muslim 12/196
[3] at-Ta’leeqaat Al-Maleehah Alaa Silsilati Al-Ahaadeeth As-Saheehah. 2/29-33
[4] Al-Fawaa’d. page: 228

Verse 3 Surah Al-Insan and a reminder regarding gratitude

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

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

Allah, The Most High, said:

إِنَّا هَدَيْنَٰهُ ٱلسَّبِيلَ إِمَّا شَاكِرًا وَإِمَّا كَفُورًا

Indeed, We have shown him (the human being) the way, whether (he chooses to be) grateful (for Our favours) or ungrateful. [NobleQuran.com by Shaikh abu Iyaad, may Allāh preserve him].

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

ثم أرسل إليه الرسل، وأنزل عليه الكتب، وهداه الطريق الموصلة إلى الله ، ورغبه فيها، وأخبره بما له عند الوصول إلى الله.ثم أخبره بالطريق الموصلة إلى الهلاك، ورهبه منها، وأخبره بما له إذا سلكها، وابتلاه بذلك، فانقسم الناس إلى شاكر لنعمة الله عليه، قائم بما حمله الله من حقوقه، وإلى كفور لنعمة الله عليه، أنعم الله عليه بالنعم الدينية والدنيوية، فردها، وكفر بربه، وسلك الطريق الموصلة إلى الهلاك.ثم ذكر تعالى حال الفريقين عند الجزاء فقال:

Then He sent him messengers, revealed books to him, guided him to the path leading to Allāh’s (pleasure) and urged him toward it and informed him of what he would receive when he follows the path leading to attaining Allāh’s (pleasure). Then He informed him of the path leading to destruction, made him fear it, informed him of what would receive if he follows it, and tested him with that. Thus, people divide into one who is grateful for the favours Allah bestows upon him and fulfilling the duties Allah has obligated to him. And the (other) is one who is ungrateful for the blessings Allah bestows on him. Allah bestows upon him religious and worldly favours, yet he rejects them, disbelieves in his Lord, and follows the path leading to destruction.  [an Excerpt from Tafsir As-Sadi]

 

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 Allah alone]. True Remembrance of Allah necessitates all of this, as well as remembering the blessings and favours, which Allah has bestowed upon His creatures and His kindness to them.

As for Shukr [i.e. to be grateful or thankful to Allah], it is to act in obedience to Allah and seek to draw close to Him through those apparent (deeds of the limbs) and (deeds of the heart) that are beloved to Him. The religion is based on these two: remembrance of Allah, which necessitates having knowledge and awareness of Allah, and being grateful to Him, which necessitates obedience to Him through acts of worship and (refraining from disobedience). This is the purpose behind the creation of the Jinn, mankind, the heavens and the earth- the reason for which reward and punishment are determined, (the reason for which) Allah revealed the Books and sent the Messengers. It is the truth for which the heavens, the earth and what is between them were created, and what is in opposition to it is falsehood, such as the assumption held by the enemies of Allah that there is no purpose behind the creation [free is Allah from what they attribute to Him]. Allah [The Most High] says: [وَمَا خَلَقۡنَا ٱلسَّمَآءَ وَٱلۡأَرۡضَ وَمَا بَيۡنَہُمَا بَـٰطِلاً۬‌ۚ ذَٲلِكَ ظَنُّ ٱلَّذِينَ كَفَرُواْ‌ۚ – And We created not the heaven and the earth and all that is between them without purpose! That is the assumption of those who disbelieve!]

Allah [The Most High] said:

وَمَا خَلَقۡنَا ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَٱلۡأَرۡضَ وَمَا بَيۡنَہُمَا لَـٰعِبِينَ
مَا خَلَقۡنَـٰهُمَآ إِلَّا بِٱلۡحَقِّ

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

Allah [The Most High] said: [وَمَا خَلَقۡنَا ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَٱلۡأَرۡضَ وَمَا بَيۡنَہُمَآ إِلَّا بِٱلۡحَقِّ‌ۗ وَإِنَّ ٱلسَّاعَةَ لَأَتِيَةٌ۬‌ۖ – And We created not the heavens and the earth and all that is between them except with truth, and the Hour is surely coming…]

Allah [The Most High] said: [مَا خَلَقَ ٱللَّهُ ذَٲلِكَ إِلَّا بِٱلۡحَقِّ‌ۚ – Allah did not create this but in truth]. Allah [The Most High] said: 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] said: [أَفَحَسِبۡتُمۡ أَنَّمَا خَلَقۡنَـٰكُمۡ عَبَثً۬ا وَأَنَّكُمۡ إِلَيۡنَا لَا تُرۡجَعُونَ – Did you think that We had created you in play (without any purpose), and that you would not be brought back to Us?]

Allah [The Most High] said: [وَمَا خَلَقۡتُ ٱلۡجِنَّ وَٱلۡإِنسَ إِلَّا لِيَعۡبُدُونِ – And I (Allah) created not the jinns and humans except they should worship Me (Alone)]

Allah, The Most High, said:

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

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

Allah, The Most High, said:

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

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

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

 

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. [8]

———————————————-

Footnotes:

(I): Knowledge and Awareness of Allah: Shaikh Uthaymeen [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, ’ Marifatullaah” – Knowledge and awareness of Allah, 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 (Shari’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 religion found in the book of Allah, the Mighty and Majestic, and in the Sunnah of His Messenger, and also by considering the signs which Allah 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. Allah, 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?” [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 Allah 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: Allah [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]. [7]

[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] 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/

[7] An Excerpt from Tafseer As-Sadi

Neighbours

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

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

Shaikh Muhammad Bin Abdillah As-Subayyil, may Allah have mercy upon him, was asked: “What are the rights of a neighbour?”

Response: The rights of a neighbour are great and many. Indeed, many ahadith have been narrated regarding the rights of a neighbour and among them is the hadith narrated by Abdullah Ibn Umar, may Allah be pleased with him and his father, that the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“Jibreel did not cease advising me (about the rights) of a neighbour to the extent that I thought he (i.e. the neighbour) would be my inheritor”. [Bukhari and Muslim]

Abu Hurairah narrated that the Prophet said: “By Allah, he does not believe (i.e. he is not a perfect believer); by Allah, he does not believe (i.e. he is not a perfect believer); by Allah, he does not believe (i.e. he is not a perfect believer); It was said: Who O Messenger of Allah? He said: The one whose neighbour is not safe from his evil behaviour. [Al-Bukhari]

And there are other narrations that shows the greatness of a neighbour’s rights. There are three types of neighbours: The neighbour with three rights; the neighbour with two rights and the neighbour with one.

The neighbour with three rights is the relative, who has rights as a relative, as a Muslim and the rights of a neighbour.

The neighbour with two rights is a Muslim neighbour, who has rights as a neighbour and as a Muslim.

As for neighbour with one right, he (or she) is a non-Muslim neighbour and has the rights of a neighbour. [1]

The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: ”He is not a (true) believer whose Stomach is filled while his neighbour is hungry”. [2]

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

This Hadith (clearly demonstrates) that the one whose stomach is filled while his neighbour is hungry is not a believer of complete Iman. A person of complete Iman is the one who checks on his neighbour if the neighbour is in need of him. It is not possible for a neighbour to be enjoying himself with foods and drinks while his (other) neighbour cannot find anything and he does not give him anything. This does not reflect the manners of a believer with complete Iman. And because of this, the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, negated the completeness (of the Iman of the one who behaves in such a manner); rather a believer of complete Iman is the one who is generous to his neighbour as much as he is able, especially when he is in need of an essential (thing) such as food and drink. [3]

Question: A neighbour of mine and his children harm me through their speech and actions, will I be rewarded due to being patient with them?

Response: There is no doubt that you will be rewarded (In-Shaa-Allaah) due to your patience while receiving harm from your neighbour and his children. This patience of yours is from good manners and kind treatment to your neighbour. Indeed Allah, The Most High, advised His Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, about kindness to neighbours, saying:

وَاعْبُدُوا اللَّهَ وَلَا تُشْرِكُوا بِهِ شَيْئًا ۖ وَبِالْوَالِدَيْنِ إِحْسَانًا وَبِذِي الْقُرْبَىٰ وَالْيَتَامَىٰ وَالْمَسَاكِينِ وَالْجَارِ ذِي الْقُرْبَىٰ وَالْجَارِ الْجُنُبِ وَالصَّاحِبِ بِالْجَنبِ وَابْنِ السَّبِيلِ وَمَا مَلَكَتْ أَيْمَانُكُمْ ۗ إِنَّ اللَّهَ لَا يُحِبُّ مَن كَانَ مُخْتَالًا فَخُورًا

Worship Allah and join none with Him in worship, and do good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, Al-Masakin (the poor), the neighbour who is near of kin, the neighbour who is a stranger, the companion by your side, the wayfarer (you meet), and those (slaves) whom your right hands possess. Verily, Allah does not like such as are proud and boastful. [4:36]

The Messenger said: “Jibreel did not cease advising me (about the rights) of a neighbour to the extent that I thought he (i.e. the neighbour) would be my inheritor”. [Bukhari and Muslim]

Therefore, be steadfast in exercising patience and you’ll receive reward and a good recompense from Allah (In-Shaa-Allah). There is no doubt that your neighbour is committing evil deeds. The Messenger said:

By Allah, he does not believe (i.e. he is not a perfect believer); by Allah, he does not believe (i.e. he is not a perfect believer); by Allah, he does not believe (i.e. he is not a perfect believer); it was said: Who O Messenger of Allah? He said: The one whose neighbour is not safe from his evil behaviour. [Reported by Bukhari] [4]

[1] Fadaa’il Al A’maal pages 15-16

[2] Reported by Imam Al-Bukhari (rahimahullaah) in Adab Al-Mufrad Number 112 & declared authentic by Imaam Albaani in his checking of Adab Al-Mufrad page 50. Publisher Daar As-Siddeeq 2nd ed [1421 AH/ Year 2000]

[3] Awn Al-Ahad As-Samad Sharh Al-Adab Al-Mufrad 1/137. Publisher: Daar Al-Mirath An-Nabawiy’ 1st ed Year 1434AH/ 2013

[4] Fadaa’il Al-A’maal page 30

The Great Danger of Social Unrest: Witnessing Is Not the Same as Being Informed

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

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

The one who has witnessed events is not the same as the one who has been informed. After colonialism, we lived in a nation that was peaceful with strong familial ties. The first ruler, following our so-called independence from Western colonisation, was loved by many people. He was gentle and tolerant. Like every other post-colonialism country, perfection is is found in any leadership, yet there was a priceless blessing from Allah in our country: peace and security. We had no army as a nation, only a gentle police force. Then, in 1981, a group of young men, may Allah forgive them, orchestrated a coup. I was just 11 years old at the time, and I can recall the announcement made by the coup leaders on Radio Gambia. The first statement I memorized as a 11-year-old was from the spokesperson or leader of the coup, declaring: “Long live the revolution, long live the supreme council of the revolution, hello Gambians, this is no magical question unanswerable”.

The neighboring country, if you wish to refer to it that way, is actually part of the same extended families, clans, and tribes. The only reason we became two separate nations was because of the territorial divisions imposed by the British and the French. Anyone who examines the map will notice that Gambia is in reality a province of Senegal, had it not been for that colonial demarcation. The Senegalese military intervened, leading to arm struggle against rebels and other criminals, resulting in bloodshed that was entirely a very strange thing to Gambians. A week of fighting, while everyone remained indoors, felt like months due to the loss of our freedom of movement and the great sense of safety we had never experienced losing before 1981.

Once the Senegalese army established control, they remained in the country for two years to ensure stability. However, there were ongoing curfews for a long time until life returned to normal. If you had found yourself in a small room, packed with your family, too afraid to step outside, and the best meal you could have was white rice and sardines, you would have truly valued the sense of safety that existed before the coup. You would have come to understand and appreciate the importance of safety and security, even if many lived with very little. Yet, the peace, security, love, and harmony that came with poverty were invaluable compared to the promise of justice through rebellion, chaos, hostility, and violence. After being guided to the Sunnah at the age of 23, the reality of khuruj became clearer to us, as the narrations about the prohibition against khuruj reflected the truths we had experienced in the past. Indeed, the one who witnessed is not the same as the one who is informed. In this regard, the insights provided by the Scholars and their advice against Khuruj based upon the Sunnah are even more appreciated.

Scholarly Clarifications

Allah, The Most High, said:

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]. [Al-Baqara. 126]

Al-Allamah Salih Al-Fawzan, may Allaah protect him, said:

He (Ibrahim – peace be upon him) prioritized security in his supplication over the pursuit of sustenance because security is an essential requirement. Without security, individuals cannot truly enjoy sustenance, as fear undermines the ability to attain it. This is precisely what adversaries aim for—those who seek to destabilise Muslim societies. They wish to create division among Muslims and weaken their unity behind their leaders. This is what they desire – in the guise of promoting beneficial outcomes, rectification, and the alleviation of oppression. They do not desire good advice for the Muslims.

This is all false pretenses, as the absence of rulership would lead to widespread chaos, the proliferation of corruption, and the failure of the promised benefits. Corruption would become rampant, and rectification would be unattainable. Consequently, it is imperative for Muslims to unite under a leadership structure. Even if such leadership exhibits flaws and negligence, the populace should practice patience, as this patience serves to avert greater harm and adversity. Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “It is not known of a group that has ever risen against their Muslim ruler without their circumstances deteriorating further after his removal.” This observation is evident in contemporary times. What is the situation of the countries where the rulers and heads of state have been removed? There has not ceased to be fear, anxiety, chaos, and bloodshed etc. [1]

This underscores the significance of safety as a fundamental necessity for individuals. Otherwise, Ibrahim, peace be upon him, would not have persistently sought Allah’s assistance in establishing it in this land. Consider the regions where a system that ensures safety has deteriorated. In such places, the populace struggles to manage their daily affairs; schools and markets remain closed, and individuals are confined to their homes. Those who have the means often seek to escape to safer locations. When inquiring with one of them, it becomes evident that they feel unable to coexist with their community and family in an environment devoid of safety.

Security can only be effectively established through two key principles: the implementation of Allah’s Laws and obedience to the rulers. The Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, elucidated this essential matter for Muslims in their lives. Irbad Sariyah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, delivered an admonition after the morning prayer—an admonition that instilled fear in our hearts and brought tears to our eyes. A man then asked, ‘Is this a farewell sermon, and what counsel do you offer us?’ He replied, ‘I enjoin on you to fear Allah and to listen and obey, even if an Abyssinian slave is appointed as your ruler. Indeed, those among you who live long enough will witness many differences. Therefore, be cautious of newly introduced matters in the religion, for they lead to misguidance. Whoever among you observes such occurrences is obliged to adhere to my Sunnah and the Sunnah of the rightly guided caliphs, holding firmly to it with your molar teeth.'” [Ahmad 3/126]

This hadith lays the foundations for security within Islam, which consists of two primary components. The first is fear of Allah (The Most High), understood in its fullest and most comprehensive sense. The second component is the adherence to the rulers in matters that are just and beneficial. The fear of Allah fosters a Muslim’s relationship with Allah, their neighbours, and the surrounding environment. Conversely, the absence of Allah’s Shariah leads to chaos and moral decay. Indeed, Allah (The Mighty and Majestic) has issued a warning to those who forsake His Shariah and disobey His Messenger. Allah said:

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. [Al-Nahl. 112]

Listening to and obeying the rulers in a (positive manner) ensures that an individual’s affairs within society remain orderly. This act of compliance is intrinsically linked to fear of Allah. Al-Hasan Al-Basri, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “Indeed, Al-Hajjaaj is a manifestation of Allah’s punishment; therefore, do not attempt to counteract Allah’s punishment with your own hands. Instead, it is essential to submit and exhibit humility, as Allah, the Most High, has stated:

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]. [Al-Muminun. 76]

You see a person who possesses a true understanding of security and his awareness is increased through fear of Allah, thus, he is eager to obey the rulers. However, when there is a lapse in their piety, their sense of security may diminish. Once fear of Allah is established, they they will attain the promise that Allah has mentioned (as follows):

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 practise 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). [Al-Nur 55]

The lack of obedience to the ruler and prioritizing personal interests over that of the ruler is among the most significant factors leading to the corruption of both the land and its inhabitants, as well as a deviation from the path of righteousness and guidance. Al Hasan Al Basri, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated, “By Allah! The establishment of religion is only possible through rulers—despite their potential for tyranny and oppression—because they rectify numerous matters through their governance that outweigh the corruption they may cause.” Imam Ibn Rajab, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated, “The worldly life holds significant benefits when rulers are followed. Through this obedience, the essential matters concerning the sustenance of the populace are established, enabling them to utilize these means as support in demonstrating their faith and fulfilling their obligations to their Lord.” Read: http://www.abukhadeejah.com/the-tyranny-of-the-rulers-a-reason-for-rebellion/

Disregarding the authority of rulers and prioritizing oneself through conflict or other means equates to defying Allah and His Messenger, as well as opposing the principles upheld by Ahlus Sunnah Wal Jamaa’ah, the righteous predecessors. The maintenance of security fosters unity and cooperation among Muslims. Allah, the Mighty and Majestic, stated:

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. [Al-Hujurat. 10]

Allah, The Most High, said:

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. [at-Tawbah 71]

Iman is neither a matter of wishful thinking or superficial assertions; it is a conviction that resides in the heart, evidenced by one’s actions. A true believer cannot be considered as such until he desires for his Muslim brother what he desires for himself and interacts with others in a manner he wishes to be treated. It is universally acknowledged that security is a fundamental aspiration for all; thus, it is incumbent upon a Muslim to actively seek the security of others in order to attain security and safety for himself. Furthermore, maintaining security within a community requires the fulfillment of trusts, while creating an atmosphere of insecurity equates to betrayal. Allah, the Most High, has stated:

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 Amanat (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. [Al-Anfal. 27-29]

Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “They [i.e. Ahlus Sunnah] know that Allah sent Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, for the benefit of the creation in this life and the next, and Allah commands rectification and not corruption”. (2)

Believer’s Bahaviour Towards Muslim Rulers – [Supplicates For Them….]

Closing the Door of Rebellion Against the Ruler – Shaikh Abu Iyaad Amjad Rafiq
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XM1oHd77nKk

[1] Excerpt From a Juma’ah Khutbah: Khutbah Number 1: dated 1432-03-15: http://www.alfawzan.af.org.sa/node/13208 paraphrased

[2]An Excerpt from ‘Silsilah Ar-Rasaa’il Al-Manhajiyyah Fin-Nus’hi Wal-Irshaad Wat-Taw’iyah’. Pages 7 – 30

Reflections from some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali – [111]

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Basics, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, History of 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.

What the people of desires say about Ahlus Sunnah (is that) their preoccupation with refutations is incorrect; no, they are busy with beneficial knowledge, then they would refute the people of bidah when there is a need.

This is nobility because (refutation against ahlul bidah) is (an act of) sincerity to Allah and to His Book; (sincere advice) to the Muslim rulers and their common folk – a path they follow based on the path of the (pious) predecessors to protect the religion.

Source: An Excerpt from Juhud Al-Allamah Rabee Al-Mad’khali Fee Naqd Shubuhaat Al-Hizbiyyeen page 79