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An elder told us to enjoin good, while also battling these enormous challenges

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

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

The Blameworthy Traits of The Soul

Imam Al-Aajurree, may Allāh have mercy upon him, said: If someone said, “Clarify the ugly traits of the soul for me”.

It is said to him:

They are traits that may have already settled in the soul, and it does not love to be separated from them- numerous traits, and if a person examines his soul he might find them as well. Indeed, it is a soul that follows (evil or excess) desires and is engaged in the (evil or excess) pleasures of the worldly life. It has prolonged hope for that which is short-lived and does not show little concern for a lifespan that will inevitably come to an end. It has a fervent desire to love this worldly life, and when it loves it (through sin or excess), the heart becomes hard and turns away from an abode whose bliss will never come to an end (i.e. Paradise).

It loves traits that it knows will harm it tomorrow, laughs and rejoices, enjoys itself with that which its Lord has forbidden, and grieves morning and evening for that which was not decreed for it of those things it hopes for from the worldly life. It is a soul facilitated with ease to seek after the (good) things of the worldly life, finds enjoyment in falling short in good deeds which its Lord calls to (or commands), desires to spend wealth in obedience to Allah, but Satan threatens it with poverty, so it inclines towards that which Satan calls to.

Allāh promises it forgiveness and bounty, but it neither has certainty about it nor is pleased with it. It has firm hope in the promises of the people but is reluctant when the threat of its Lord reaches it. It pleases the people at the expense of Allāh’s anger and hesitates to please its Lord. Allāh calls it to have patience during calamities – a means of consolation and solace, but it does not accept.

It pretends in the presence of the people that it fulfills obligations, but fulfills little of that which Allāh obligates on it. It abandons disobedience after being able to do so out of being shy of the people but has little shyness whilst Allāh [The Most Great] watches it.

It gives little thanks for the innumerable blessings of Allāh, utilises the blessings of Allāh [The Most Generous] – day and night – as an aid to disobey Him. It finds it easy to sit with idle people but finds it difficult to sit with scholars. It obeys (or follows) a deceiver but disobeys the most sincere advisers. It hastens to evil desires but delays repentance today and tomorrow.

Whoever realises these traits in his soul and other than them, he should hasten to discipline it through good behaviour in order to return it to that which is more worthy regarding fear of Allāh [The Mighty and Majestic]- in private and public, having great regret, refrain from the repugnant traits which he knows for sure is with him and continue upon rectification throughout his lifespan. And Allāh is the Bestower of this affair.

An Excerpt from Adab An-Nufūs. page 4

What we have been taught by students of senior scholars since 1995 regarding disagreements involving various personalities

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

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

The Basis of Sound Allegiance

The text of this reminder was quoted by Ustadh Abu Ukkashah, may Allah preserve him and all the teachers, during a one day conference in Stoke On Trent

Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

ﻭﻟﻴﺲ ﻟﻠﻤﻌﻠﻤﻴﻦ ﺃﻥ ﻳﺤﺰﺑﻮﺍ ﺍﻟﻨﺎﺱ
ﻭﻳﻔﻌﻠﻮﺍ ﻣﺎ ﻳﻠﻘﻲ ﺑﻴﻨﻬﻢ ﺍﻟﻌﺪﺍﻭﺓ ﻭﺍﻟﺒﻐﻀﺎﺀ،
ﺑﻞ ﻳﻜﻮﻧﻮﻥ ﻣﺜﻞ ﺍﻷﺧﻮﺓ ﺍﻟﻤﺘﻌﺎﻭﻧﻴﻦ ﻋﻠﻰ
ﺍﻟﺒﺮ ﻭﺍﻟﺘﻘﻮﻱ ﻛﻤﺎ ﻗﺎﻝ ﺗﻌﺈﻟﻰ
وَتَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْبِرِّ وَالتَّقْوَى وَلا تَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الإثْمِ وَالْعُدْوَانِ
وليس لأحد منهم أن يأخذ على أحد عهداً بموافقته على كل ما يريده وموالاة من يواليه ومعاداة من يعاديه،بل من فعل هذا كان من جنس جنكز خان وأمثاله الذين يجعلون من وافقهم صديقاً واليا، ومن خالفهم عدوَّا باغيا، بل عليهم وعلى أتباعهم عهد الله ورسوله بأن يطيعوا الله ورسوله ويفعلوا ما أمر الله ورسوله ويحرموا ما حرم الله ورسوله ويرعوا حقوق المعلمين كما أمر الله ورسوله، فإن كان أستاذ أحد مظلوماً نصره، وإن كان ظالماً لم يعاونه على الظلم بل يمنعه منه كما ثبت في الصحيح أنه قال:
(انصر أخاك ظالماً أو مظلوماً. قيل: يا رسول الله: أنصره مظلوماً فكيف أنصره ظالماً؟. قال تمنعه من الظلم فذلك نصرك إياه).
وإذا وقع بين معلم ومعلم أو تلميذ وتلميذ أو معلم وتلميذ خصومة ومشاجرة لم يجز لأحد أن يعين أحدهما حتى يعلم الحق، فلا يعاونه بجهل ولا بهوى، بل ينظر في الأمر، فإذا تبين له الحق أعان المحق منهما على المبطل سواء كان المحق من أصحابه أو أصحاب غيره، وسواء كان المبطل من أصحابه أو أصحاب غيره، فيكون المقصود عبادة الله وحده وطاعة رسوله واتباع الحق والقيام بالقسط
قال تعالى
يا أيها الذين آمنوا كونوا قوامين بالقسط شهداء لله ولو على أنفسكم أو الوالدين والأقربين، إن يكن غنياً أو فقيراً فالله أولى بهما، فلا تتبعوا الهوى أن تعدلوا وإن تلووا أو تعرضوا فإن الله كان بما تعملون خبيراً

It not allowed for the teachers to initiate (illegal) partisanship between the people and do that which would cause enmity and hatred between them; but rather they should be brothers who cooperate upon righteousness and piety, as Allah [The Exalted] said: [وَتَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْبِرِّ وَالتَّقْوَىٰ ۖ وَلَا تَعَاوَنُوا عَلَى الْإِثْمِ وَالْعُدْوَانِ – 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 a]

It is not allowed for anyone of them to receive a pledge from anyone to be in agreement with him in everything he wants – having allegiance to the one he is allied to and enmity against the one he harbours enmity, and whoever does this is similar to Genghis Khan and his ilk (in this affair), who take as their loyal friends the one in agreement with them and the one who oppose them as a rebellious enemy; rather it is obligated on them and their followers (i.e. the teachers) to fulfil the covenant of Allah and His Messenger by obeying Allah and His Messenger, doing that which Allah and His Messenger have commanded, declare unlawful that which Allah and His Messenger have declared unlawful, and preserve the rights of the teachers in the manner commanded by Allah and His Messenger. So, if one’s teacher is oppressed, he should help him; but if the teacher is the oppressor, he should not aid him in his act of oppression; rather he forbids him from it, as it has been established in the authentic books of hadeeth that the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “Help your brother, whether he is an oppressor or he is an oppressed one. People asked, “O Allah’s Messenger! It is all right to help him if he is oppressed, but how should we help him if he is an oppressor?” The Prophet said, “By preventing him from oppressing others.” [Saheeh Al-Bukhaari 2444]

If an argument and dispute occurs between a teacher and another teacher, or between a student and another student, it is not permissible for anyone to help one of them until he knows the truth – neither to aid him based on ignorance nor desires; rather he he examines the affair, so if the truth becomes clear to him, he helps the one who deserves to be helped (due to him being upon the truth) against the one upon error – regardless whether the one who deserves to be helped is one of his companions or the companion of someone else, or whether the one upon error is one of his companions or the companion of someone else. Therefore, the aim is only to worship Allah alone, obedience to Allah’s Messenger, adherence to truth and establishment of justice. Allah [The Exalted] said:

يا أيها الذين آمنوا كونوا قوامين بالقسط شهداء لله ولو على أنفسكم أو الوالدين والأقربين، إن يكن غنياً أو فقيراً فالله أولى بهما، فلا تتبعوا الهوى أن تعدلوا وإن تلووا أو تعرضوا فإن الله كان بما تعملون خبيراً

O you who believe! Stand out firmly for justice, as witnesses to Allah; even though it be against yourselves, or your parents, or your kin, be he rich or poor, Allah is a Better Protector to both (than you). So follow not the lusts (of your hearts), lest you may avoid justice, and if you distort your witness or refuse to give it, verily, Allah is Ever Well-Acquainted with what you do. [Surah An-Nisaa. Ayah 135] [1] [Footnote b]

The Big Personalities

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: The seeker of truth is not diverted from the truth, fairness and justice due to admiration of the big personalities and being amazed by them, for indeed the truth is more worthy to be followed. It is not permissible to drop the proofs for the sake of this or that great man. The principle [rule] of the Muslim – the unbiased one, the seeker of truth – is always:

قُلْ هَاتُوا بُرْهَانَكُمْ إِن كُنتُمْ صَادِقِينَ

Say, bring forth your proofs if you are truthful. [An-Nahl. 64] [2]

Imam Ash-Shawkaanee, may Allah have mercy on him, said:

فاعلم أنه إذا وقع الخلاف بين المسلمين في أن هذا الشيء بدعة او غير بدعة ، أو مكروه او غير مكروه ، او محرم او غير محرم ، او غير ذلك ، فقد اتفق المسلمون : سلفهم وخلفهم ، من عصر الصحابة الى عصرنا هذا – وهو القرن الثالث عشر منذ البعثة المحمدية – أن الواجب الاختلاف في أي أمر من أمور الدين بين الأئمة المجتهدين : هو الرد الى كتاب الله سبحانه ، وسنة رسوله الناطق بذلك
الكتاب العزيز ( ٤ : ٥٩ فإن تنازعتم في شيء فردوه إلى الله والرسول ( ومعنى الرد الى الله سبحانه : الرد الى كتابه
ومعنى الرد إلى رسوله ال : الرد الى سنته بعد وفاته وهذا مما لا خلاف فيه بين جميع المسلمين . فإذا قال مجتهد من المجتهدين
هذا حلال . وقال الآخر : هذا حرام : فليس
أحدهما أولى بالحق من الآخر وإن كان اكثر منه علماً ، أو اكبر منه سنا ، او اقدم منه عصراً لأن كل واحد منهما فرد من أفراد عباد الله ، ومتعبد بما في الشريعة المطهرة، مما في كتاب الله وسنة رسوله ، ومطلوب منه ما طلب الله من غيره من العباد . وكثرة علمه وبلوغه درجة الاجتهاد او مجاوزته لها لا يسقط عنه شيئاً من الشرائع التي شرعها الله لعباده ، ولا يخرجه من جملة المكلفين من العباد

Know that when differing arise among Muslims regarding whether this thing (matter) is a Bidah or not a Bidah, (something) disliked or not disliked, prohibited, or not prohibited, or other than that, there is a consensus among Muslims (i.e. their scholars) —both the early generations and those that followed, from the era of the Companions to the present day, which is the thirteenth century since the advent of the Prophethood—that the obligation in any differing – in any issue among the issues of the religion – between Imams of Ijtihad is to refer back to the Book of Allah, the Exalted, and the Sunnah of His Messenger, as stated in Allāh’s Book:

فَإِن تَنَٰزَعْتُمْ فِى شَىْءٍ فَرُدُّوهُ إِلَى ٱللَّهِ وَٱلرَّسُولِ

And if you disagree among yourselves over anything then refer it back to Allāh and the Messenger. [An-Nisa 59]

The meaning of referring back to Allah, the Exalted, is to refer to His Book, and the meaning of referring to His Messenger, peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him, is to refer to his Sunnah after his passing. This is a matter about which there is no differing among the Muslims.

If a Mujtahid among the Mujtahideen says that this (thing) is lawful while another says this (thing) is unlawful, neither is any of the two more entitled to the truth than the other, even if he possesses more knowledge, older, or closer to the (early era of Islam). This is because each of them is a servant of Allāh among the servants of Allāh, (required) to worship (Allāh) based on what is found in the pure Sharia- that which is found in Allāh’s Book and the Sunnah of His Messenger, and what is required of him is required of other than him among Allāh’s servants. His abundant knowledge, the attainment of the level of Ijtihad, or even surpassing it, does not exempt him from any of the religious laws legislated by Allah for His servants, nor do they exclude him from those who have reached the age in which one is held accountable for his actions among the servants (of Allāh). [harh As-Sudoor Bi-Tahreem Raf Al-Quboor pages 1-2]

Shaikh Abdus Salaam Burgess, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Just as it is obligated to a student to recant a mistake, similarly, it is obligated to a teacher to return to the truth when he errs. He is not to be prevented from returning to the truth after reviewing a statement that he made and finds that it is in opposition to what is correct, for indeed that is a sign of equity and humbling (oneself) to the truth. Therefore, it is obligatory that one follows what is correct, whether it was (conveyed) by a younger or older person. It is a blessing that a teacher has amongst his students one who notifies him of his mistake and leads him to what is correct, so that he does not persist upon that ignorance. This requires that one shows gratitude to Allah, The Exalted, and then being thankful to the person through whom one was guided, whether it was a student or other than him. [An Excerpt from ‘Awā’iq at-Talab p. 52]

Only Allah’s Pleasure Should Be Sought

Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: One must know that neither is it conceivable to the intellect (i.e. sound intellect) nor (plausible) in the religion to seek the pleasure of the creation [i.e. mankind and Jinn] due to two affairs: First, Imam Ash-Shaafi’ee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “The people are an unattainable goal”. Therefore, it is obligated on you to (pursue) that which would rectify your affairs and adhere to it; abandon its opposite and do not concern (yourself) with it. Second, indeed, we have been commanded to (seek) the pleasure of Allah and His Messenger, as Allah, The Most High, said:

وَٱللَّهُ وَرَسُولُهُۥٓ أَحَقُّ أَن يُرْضُوهُ إِن كَانُوا۟ مُؤْمِنِينَ

But it is more fitting that they should please Allah and His Messenger (Muhammad), if they are believers.[at-Tawbah. 62]

It is obligated to us to fear Allah and not fear anyone except Allah, as Allah, The Most High, said:

فَلَا تَخَافُوهُمْ وَخَافُونِ إِن كُنتُم مُّؤْمِنِينَ

So fear them not, but fear Me, if you are (true) believers. [Aal Imran. 175]

Allah said:

فَلَا تَخْشَوُا۟ ٱلنَّاسَ وَٱخْشَوْنِ

Therefore fear not men but fear Me. [Al-Ma’idah. 44].

Allah said:
فَإِيَّٰىَ فَٱرْهَبُونِ

Then, fear Me (Allah) much [and Me (Alone), i.e. be away from all kinds of sins and evil deeds that Allah has forbidden and do all that Allah has ordained and worship none but Allah. [An-Nahl. 51]

Allah said:
وَإِيَّٰىَ فَٱتَّقُونِ

And fear Me and Me Alone. [Al-Baqarah. 41]

It is obligated to us to fear Allah – fear Allah concerning the (rights) of the people- neither harm them with our hearts (i.e. blameworthy hatred, malice etc) nor with our limbs (i.e. physical harm); fulfil their rights with our hearts and limbs (i.e. wish them good, love for them what we love for ourselves, physically do what will benefit them etc), but do not fear them and leave what Allah and His Messenger commanded. The one who adheres to this path will (reach) the (praiseworthy) outcomes, just as Aa’isha, may Allah be pleased with her, wrote to Mu’aawiyah, may Allah be pleased with him and his father, and said, “To proceed: Indeed, whoever seeks the pleasure of the people at the expense of Allah’s displeasure will (earn) Allah’s displeasure and Allah will cause the people to be displeased with him. And the praise of the people will become blame against him. And whoever seeks Allah’s Pleasure at the expense of people’s displeasure, will (earn) Allah’s Pleasure and Allah will cause the people to be pleased with him”.
Therefore, a person’s concern and intention should be nothing else but to (seek) the Pleasure of Allah and to avoid Allah’s displeasure, and there is no power or might except with Allah. [3]

Imam Muhammad Bin Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: If all the people were pleased with you and Allah is not pleased with you, then indeed it will not benefit you except the Pleasure of Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, for indeed if Allah is pleased with you, He will make people become pleased with you and make their hearts incline towards you, as it has been reported in a hadeeth, “Indeed, when Allah loves a servant, He calls Jibreel and says, ‘Verily, I love this person so you should love him’. Then Jibreel loves him and makes an announcement in the heavens, saying, ‘Indeed, Allaah loves this person and you should love him’, so the inhabitants of the heavens love him. Then he is granted the (pleasure and acceptance) of the (people) in the earth”, just as Allah said:

إِنَّ ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ وَعَمِلُوا۟ ٱلصَّٰلِحَٰتِ سَيَجْعَلُ لَهُمُ ٱلرَّحْمَٰنُ وُدًّا

Verily, those who believe [in the Oneness of Allah and in His Messenger (Muhammad)] and work deeds of righteousness, the Most Beneficent (Allah) will bestow love for them (in the hearts of the believers). [Maryam. 96]

However, if a person seeks after the pleasure of the people at the expense of Allah’s displeasure, the affair will be the opposite. Allah will be angry with him and will make the people become angry with him. This is why when Mu’aawiyah became the Khaleefah, Aa’isha [may Allah be pleased with her] wrote to him, saying, “I heard the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] say, ‘Whoever seeks the pleasure of Allah at the expense of the displeasure of the people, Allaah will suffice him against the people. Whoever seeks the pleasure of people at the expense of Allah’s displeasure, Allah will leave his affair to the people'”. [4]

———————————————————————

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

This Ayah contains all the Masaalih [beneficial affairs] for the slaves in their worldly affairs and affairs related to the Hereafter- be it between themselves or between them and their Lord; for indeed every servant [of Allah] finds himself within two circumstances and obligations – either [required] 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 upon what 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 [virtue] and Taqwaa [piety], for it is basis of all affairs of the religion. As for Taqwa, its reality is to act in obedience to Allah based on Iman in Allah and hoping for Allah’s Reward; fulfil what Allah has commanded based on having Iman in that which Allah has commanded and affirming the reward Allah has promised; abandoning what Allah has forbidden based on one’s belief that what Allah has forbidden is forbidden and fearing Allah’s punishment, just as Talq Bin Habeeb [may Allah have mercy upon him] said: ”When Fitna occurs, extinguish it with Taqwa”. So the people said, “What is Taqwa?” He said, “You act in obedience to Allah upon a light from Allah [i.e. Iman, sincerity etc] and hoping for reward from Allah. And you abandon disobedience to Allah upon a light from Allah and fearing the punishment of Allah”. This is the best of that which has been stated regarding Taqwa, for indeed there has to be an aim and a goal behind every deed. A deed cannot be considered an act of obedience to Allah and an act that gets one close to Allah until it is based on Iman, so that which leads to the performance of that deed is solely due to Iman – neither [Un-Islamic] customs nor [evil] desires, neither seeking praise nor status and other than it; rather it should be solely based on Iman and the aim behind it should be to attain Allah’s reward and seeking after Allah’s Pleasure. [An Excerpt from ‘Badaa’i At-Tafseer Al-Jaami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imaam Ibnul Qayyim Al-Jawziyyah’ Vol 1 pages 307-311. Publisher: Daar Ibn Al-Jawziyyah 2nd Ed, 1431AH- Slightly paraphrased

Footnote b: https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2024/12/08/a-measure-of-genuine-fear-of-allah-connected-to-establishing-justice/

[1] Majmoo Al-Fataawaa. 28/15-17. paraphrased]
[2] Al-Mulakh-khas Al-Jameel Fee Bayaan Manhaj Ash-Shaikh Rabee Fid-Da’wati Wal-Jarhi Wat-Ta’deel. Page 87
[3] An Excerpt from ‘Majmoo Al-Fataawaa 3/233. slightly paraphrased
[4] An Excerpt from ‘Riyaadh As-Saaliheen 1/163. slightly paraphrased

[6] Gentleness of our pious predecessors

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in 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.

It has been transmitted from Habeeb ibn Hujr al-Qaysi, may Allah have mercy upon him, who said: “It used to be said: “How excellent Iman is when adorned with knowledge! How excellent knowledge is when adorned with action! How excellent a deed is when adorned with gentleness!”

Reported Ibn Al-Mubaarak, may Allah have mercy upon him, in Az-Zuhd 1336

Forty

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

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

Allah, The Exalted, said:

وَوَصَّيْنَا الْإِنْسَانَ بِوَالِدَيْهِ إِحْسَانًا ۖ حَمَلَتْهُ أُمُّهُ كُرْهًا وَوَضَعَتْهُ كُرْهًا ۖ وَحَمْلُهُ وَفِصَالُهُ ثَلَاثُونَ شَهْرًا ۚ حَتَّىٰ إِذَا بَلَغَ أَشُدَّهُ وَبَلَغَ أَرْبَعِينَ سَنَةً قَالَ رَبِّ أَوْزِعْنِي أَنْ أَشْكُرَ نِعْمَتَكَ الَّتِي أَنْعَمْتَ عَلَيَّ وَعَلَىٰ وَالِدَيَّ وَأَنْ أَعْمَلَ صَالِحًا تَرْضَاهُ وَأَصْلِحْ لِي فِي ذُرِّيَّتِي ۖ إِنِّي تُبْتُ إِلَيْكَ وَإِنِّي مِنَ الْمُسْلِمِينَ

And We have enjoined on man to be dutiful and kind to his parents. His mother bears him with hardship and she brings him forth with hardship, and the bearing of him, and the weaning of him is thirty (30) months, till when he attains full strength and reaches forty years, he says: ‘’My Lord! Grant me the power and ability that I may be grateful for Your Favour which You have bestowed upon me and upon my parents, and that I may do righteous good deeds, such as please You, and make my off-spring good. Truly, I have turned to You in repentance, and truly, I am one of the Muslims [submitting to Your Will].

Imam Ash-Shawkaani [may Allaah have mercy upon him] said:

وفي هذه الآية دليل على أنه ينبغي لمن بلغ عمره أربعين سنة أن يستكثر من هذه الدعوات

And in this verse, (there) is proof that indeed it is befitting for the one who has reached the age of forty to increase in making these supplications.

رَبِّ أَوْزِعْنِي أَنْ أَشْكُرَ نِعْمَتَكَ الَّتِي أَنْعَمْتَ عَلَيَّ وَعَلَىٰ وَالِدَيَّ وَأَنْ أَعْمَلَ صَالِحًا تَرْضَاهُ وَأَصْلِحْ لِي فِي ذُرِّيَّتِي ۖ إِنِّي تُبْتُ إِلَيْكَ وَإِنِّي مِنَ الْمُسْلِمِينَ

My Lord! Grant me the power and ability that I may be grateful for Your Favour which You have bestowed upon me and upon my parents, and that I may do righteous good deeds, such as please You, and make my off-spring good. Truly, I have turned to You in repentance, and truly, I am one of the Muslims (submitting to Your Will).

Fath Al-Qadir 5/22

Worship and the two types of hearts during Fitna

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

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

Maqil Bin Yasar, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“Worship during Al-Harj is like emigrating to me”. [1]

Imam An-Nawawi, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

The intent behind Al-Harj in this Hadith is when the affairs of the people are in a state of Ikhtilaat [i.e. chaos, confusion, disorder, disarray etc]. The reason behind the great virtue of worship during this state of affairs is because the people are heedless of worship and diverted from it, and none fulfils it except individuals. [2]

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

The intent behind Al-Harj is Al-Ikhtilaat [i.e. chaos, confusion, disarray] when it occurs between the Muslims. This is because many people are diverted from worship due to this state of confusion. Also killing and blood shed occurs during this state of affairs. Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, urges a person to engage in worship during the time of fitan because the majority of the people are diverted from worship. The one who busies himself with worship is like one who has migrated to Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. You know the virtue Al-Hijrah [migration]! Al-Hijrah in the Arabic language means to abandon. Allah said: [وَٱلرُّجۡزَ فَٱهۡجُرۡ – And keep away from the idols]. [Al-Muddathir. 5]

The one who engages in worship during times of fitan and it does not divert him from worship has the reward of one who migrated to Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, because a Muhaajir [emigrant] leaves his country and flees to Allah’s Messenger in order to safeguard his religion. This took place in the early Islamic era – during the era of the Messenger. So, the word Hijrah [migration] in the Islamic legislation means to leave the land of kufr and settle in the land of Iman in order to safeguard one’s religion.

The word Hijrah is also intended to mean abandonment in general, so the one who abandons Fitna and busies himself with worship has abandoned Fitna and proceeded towards worship. Therefore, Hijrah means to abandon something. Allah’s Messenger said: “A (true) Muslim is the one whom other Muslims are safe from his tongue and hands, and a Muhaajir [emigrant] is one who refrains from what Allah has forbidden”.[a] Therefore, he is a Muhaajir because he abandons what Allah has forbidden and fulfils what Allah has commanded. This Hadith urges a person to engage in worship during times of fitna because Fitna diverts people from worship except the one whom Allah blesses with the ability to abandon Fitna and engages in worship.

However, this does not mean that one refrains from warning against Fitna and clarifying for the people, rather – firstly – he abandons Fitna, warns the people and forbids them from it. This is because just as he would like the people to come to him with good, he should also go to them with good. Just as he loves to be safe from Fitna, he should also love the same for the people. This deed of his is Jihad [striving in the path of Allah] and Inkarul Munkar [i.e. the virtuous act of rejecting evil]. [3]

Al-Allaamah Rabee bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercy upon him,  stated:

Let us increase in obedience to (Allah). Let us be mindful of Shubuhaat and Shahawaat, for indeed the Fitan will be exposed to the hearts. Hudhaifah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported from Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, who said, “The Fitan will be exposed to the hearts of the people like a reed mat woven stick by stick, and any heart afflicted by them will have a black mark put into it, but any heart that rejects them will have a white mark put into it. Thus there will be two kinds of hearts: one is pure like a white gemstone and it will not be harmed by any tribulation as long as the heavens and earth endure, and the other is black and dusty like a worn-out vessel, neither recognizing good nor rejecting evil, but rather immersed in its desires”. [Sahih Muslim. Number 144]

The first type of heart: “Pure like a white gemstone and it will not be harmed by any tribulation as long as the heavens and earth endure”. This is because Allah grants them firmness and not due to their own power or strength; rather Allah grants them firmness:

يُثَبِّتُ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِينَ ءَامَنُوا۟ بِٱلْقَوْلِ ٱلثَّابِتِ فِى ٱلْحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنْيَا وَفِى ٱلْءَاخِرَةِ

Allah will keep firm those who believe, with the word that stands firm in this world (i.e. they will keep on worshipping Allah Alone and none else), and in the Hereafter. [Ibrahim 27]

Allah bestows His favour upon them by granting them firmness, thus, they are not harmed regardless of the greatness of the Fitan. Let me strike a similitude: I say, indeed amongst the people in the midst of these Fitan – just as Allah’s Messenger described the situation- are those who are firm like mountains; the winds, floods, hurricanes and storms come along, but they do not shake because the Iman in the hearts is like the firm mountains. Allah keeps them away from the Fitan and makes them firm, so they are not harmed. However, other people are like the trees that are moved -by the wind – to the right and the left until they finally fall. Others are like feathers and the Henna leaves- flying along with the Fitan when little Fitna occurs, such as when a mild wind (blows) the fragile leaves to a far-off place. We ask Allah to keep us firm.

The second type of heart is described as “Black and dusty like a worn-out vessel, neither recognising good nor rejecting evil, but rather immersed in its desires”. This is the state of the one whose heart is immersed in Fitnah. He agrees with it and does not reject it, so the Fitnah enters him gradually until his heart is worn out and thus becomes black like a worn-out vessel – a vessel whose mouth is turned upside down, this, regardless of the amount of water, butter fat and other things one attempts to pour into it, it will not accept anything. Indeed, we have often experienced the affair of this category of people – whose hearts are worn out – and regardless the of proofs and pieces of evidence- from the Qur’an and Sunnah – presented to nullify their falsehood, they do not accept that from you. This has to be the case because indeed Allah’s Messenger described such a person as one with a heart that is similar to a worn-out vessel- a heart that neither recognises truth nor rejects evil; rather it is immersed in its desires. Whatever agrees with his desires, he accepts it- not because it is the truth, but rather only because it agrees with his desires. This is similar to the Yahud [i.e. those Yahud who rejected the clear message of the final Messenger], for they know the truth, but wage war against it – accepting what agrees with their desires and rejecting what opposes their desires and wage war against it. This is something rife in this era amongst those whose hearts are worn-out, thus, they reach this state that has been described by Allah’s Messenger.

It is as if we are witnessing this matter whilst Allah’s Messenger describes these people -in our presence- and we can see their deeds and dishonourable stances. [4]

We ask Allah after Tashahud and before tasleem:

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

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

O Allaah! Let Me Live If Life is Good For Me And Let Me Die if Death is Good For Me

We ask Allah in general:

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. [Saheeh Muslim Number: 2720]

O Allaah! Rectify My Religion For Me, Which The Safeguard of My Affairs – [A Tremendous Supplication]

[1] Saheeh Muslim: Kitaab Al-Fitan Wa-Ash’raat As-Saa’ah- Chapter: The virtue of Ibaadah During Al-Harj. Hadeeth Number 2948]

[2] Saheeh Muslim Bi-Sharhi An-Nawawi. Vol 17. page 70. Hadeeth Number 2948. slightly paraphrased. Publishers: Daar al-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah. Ist Edition 1421 (Year 200) ]

[a] Bukhaari. Hadeeth Number 2382 and Muslim. Hadeeh Number 84]

[3] https://youtu.be/-HxAEXdPD-M?si=tk1PPPvtR57pA4QR

[4] An Excerpt from Marhaban Yaa Talib Al-Ilm. pages 206-208

[2] Gentleness of our pious predecessors

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Basics, 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.

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

When Umar ibn Abdul Aziz -may Allah have mercy upon him- intended to punish a man, he would imprison him for three days before administering the punishment, as he disliked acting hastily in the heat of anger.

Siyar A’lam An-Nubulaa 5/ 133

Muslim Youth – Marriage, Education and Having Children

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

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

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Haadi Al-Madkhali, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “If you are able to exercise patience and seek knowledge, then exercise patience- meaning, study before getting married, just as Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, said “Some people might be prevented from (seeking) knowledge due to marriage”. So, when he gets married, he abandons seeking knowledge and becomes relaxed, and tires himself (i.e. it becomes difficult for him to combine family responsibilities and seeking knowledge at the same time). But if he has the ability to combine the Maslahatayn (i.e. the benefits of marriage and seeking knowledge), then that is good, (as long as) he does not consider himself as one who might commit immoral deeds and fornicate. If this is the case (i.e. fears falling into evil), then -by Allah- it becomes more incumbent upon him to get married to protect himself and guard his chastity”.(1)

Question to Imam Muhammad Bin Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, “If a young man delays marriage until he reaches 30 years of age while having the ability (to get married), is there anything incumbent upon him, because he wants to build his future and complete his education?

Response: Yes, something is incumbent upon him and it that he has followed the guidance of the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, “O young people! Whoever from among you is able to get married, then you should do so for verily it is the most effective in keeping the gazes lowered and maintaining chastity. [Sahih Muslim. Number 1400]

Thus, the Prophet commanded the youth to get married and clarified its benefits. The statement [i.e. the reason given] that he is preoccupied with studies and building his future is false. How many people were not at ease during their studies until after getting married! They found ease and enough provision, and restraint from looking at what Allah has forbidden, such as women, (forbidden) pictures etc. Therefore, my advice to the youth in general is that they should get married at the earliest opportunity by following the command of the Messenger of Allah and seek provision. This is because the married individual desires chastity and modesty, and Allah helps him, as it has been been stated in the narration, ‘It is a right Allah (has obligated upon Himself) to aid three (types of people)… and one of them is ‘the man who marries wanting chastity’.(2)

Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz [may Allaah have mercy upon him] was asked about a husband and a wife who agreed not to have children and whether this is allowed? So, he responded, “This agreement of theirs is not permissible. As long as the woman is able (to bear children), then it is not permissible for them to do this because the Islamic legislation requires that the people give concern to bearing children and make the Ummah numerous. The Prophet [peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him] said, ‘Marry the childbearing, loving woman for I shall outnumber the peoples by you on the Day of Resurrection’. In another wording (of this narration the Prophet said), ‘Outnumber (i.e. the followers of the other) Prophets on the Day of Judgement’. This is because by way of this (i.e. having many children) those who worship Allah among the Muslims will be numerous, the Ummah will be numerous and strong in opposing their enemies. It is not permissible for a man to abandon having children out of fear of either tiredness in seeking after a livelihood or due to difficulty, or due to expenditure, or due to a desire to enjoy one’s wife and other than that. It also not permissible for a woman to do this, rather it is obligated on both of them to pursue the means of having offspring -be eager to seek the means to having children so that the Ummah becomes numerous and to fulfil what the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] stated. However, if the woman either suffers a lot of pain due to an illness of the womb or she cannot give birth except by way of surgical operation, then this is an excuse to not have children. If the surgical operation [or caesarean] will harm her- it is feared that something will happen to her, and also if the children are many- born at close intervals and bringing them up becomes difficult upon her, then there is nothing to prevent her from taking some pills [or contraception] or some preventative measures for a year or two – the period of breastfeeding- so that she becomes strong enough to nurture the children and able to nurture the other newly born”. (3)

[1] http://www.rabee.net/ar/questions.php?cat=51&id=623 paraphrased.

[2] Fatawa Nur Alad Darb 728

[3] Audio link with transcript http://www.binbaz.org.sa/noor/11853 [NB: This is a general Fatwa, therefore married should ask the scholars about their specific circumstances, in order to receive specific ruling related to their situation].

Reflections on some statements of Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali [96]

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Monotheism - Tawheed, Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Shaikh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “It is well-known that Malik, may Allah have mercy upon him, disliked that the supplicant says: ‘ياسيدي سيدي’. He said, “Say as the prophets said: ‘يارب يارب ياكريم’. He also disliked that it is said: ‘ياحنان يامنان’ as this is not reported from him.

Al-Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercy upon hi, briefly commented:

As for al-Mannān, it has been reported in the hadith whose wording is:

اللهم إني أسألك بأن لك الحمد لا إله إلا أنت المنان بديع السماوات والأرض ياذا الجلال والإكرام ياحي ياقيوم

O Allah! I ask You by virtue of the fact that all praise is due to You; none has the right to be worshiped but You alone, al-Mannān (The Beneficent Bestower of Bounties. The One such that all favors and blessings originate from Him. He is The One Who granted them and favored the creation with them), (1) the Originator of the heavens and the earth, the Possessor of Majesty and Honour.

This narration was reported by Abu Dawood in the (Book) of Prayer Hadith (1495), by Al-Tirmidhi in the (Book) of supplications Hadith (3544), by Al-Nasa’i, Hadith (1300), and by Ibn Majah in the (Book) of supplications Hadith (3858). All of these are transmitted through various chains from Anas, and their collective authenticity supports the narration. Al-Albani declared it authentic; see: Sahih Abu Dawood, number (1325). As for al-Ḥannān, it was narrated by Al-Tabarani in Al-Awsat with a weak chain. See: Majma’ Al-Bahrain, Hadith (4639). The statement: “It is not reported” means that it is not reported in this manner. [paraphrased]

هل ثبت اسم المنان والحنان لله تعالى؟

(1) al-Mannān: (The Beneficent Bestower of Bounties. The One such that all favors and blessings originate from Him. He is The One Who granted them and favored the creation with them). [Translated by Shaikh Abu Talhah dawud Burbank, may Allah have mercy upon him and his wife]

Why is noble prophet Musa mentioned more than other prophets in the Qur’an?!

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Da'wah - Calling To Islam, History of Islam, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Scholars of Islam.

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

Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated:

The repetition of stories in the Quran is not done without some benefit; rather, there is benefit in it. Some stories, such as the story of Luqman and the Companions of the Cave have not been repeated and some are repeated based on the need for it. Those that are repeated are not presented in a single context in all places (instances); rather, they must vary. For instance, in Surah Al-A’raf (Ayah 109), Allah said: [قَالَ الْمَلَأُ مِن قَوْمِ فِرْعَوْنَ – The chiefs of Pharaoh’s people said”, and in Surah Ash-Shu’ara (Ayah 34), Allah said: [قَالَ لِلْمَلَا حَوْلَهُ – He (Pharaoh) said to the chiefs around him]. In the first story, the statement of Pharaoh’s companions is highlighted, while in the second, Pharaoh’s own statement is mentioned. This is because Pharaoh spoke and those people affirmed his speech, echoing his sentiments, thus making Pharaoh the initial speaker, and then followed by his rank and file.

You observe that these recurring stories vary according to the needs they address. This is particularly evident in the frequent repetition of the story of Musa, peace be upon him, due to the circumstances that necessitated it. This is because the Jews used to be present in Madinah, in proximity to the Quraysh, as well as the Christians in Najran and other regions. Due to this, the stories of Musa and Isa, peace be upon them, are reiterated more than others, reflecting the demands of the situation and the benefits at hand. Despite this, the repetition is not based on one angle, rather, they vary in length, mellowness and intensity, with certain aspects of the story appearing in one context rather than another. It is exceedingly rare for a verse to be identical to another verse that came before, thus, this occurs very little. For instance, we find among the shortest and most impactful stories in Surah Al-Qamar. The stories (in this Surah) are very brief, yet they contain profound warnings, each concluding with the statement [فَهَلْ مِن مُّدَّكِرٍ Is there anyone to take heed?] The one who reads this Surah with reflection is bound to be affected by (its significance) because it is tremendous.

What is the wisdom behind this repetition (of the stories)?

It highlights the importance of the story, as its repetition demonstrates that close attention is to be given to it. It reinforces the story, ensuring it is firmly established in the hearts of the people. It takes into account the time and the condition of the audience; thus, one often finds brevity and intensity in the stories conyed in the Makkan Surahs, in contrast to those in the Madinan Surahs. A clarification of the eloquence of the Qur’an, as these stories appear in various forms, tailored to the circumstances. It demonstrates the truthfulness of the Qur’an, affirming that it is from Allah, as these stories are presented in diverse ways without any contradiction.

If someone were to say: “You have stated that the various stories do not contradict one another; however, we observe that some appear to conflict, such as the story of Musa and Pharaoh. In certain verses, Pharaoh declared [إِنَّ هَٰذَا لَسَٰحِرٌ عَلِيمٌ- Indeed, this is a well versed sorcerer], while in another verse it is stated: [قَالَ ٱلْمَلَأُ مِن قَوْمِ فِرْعَوْنَ إِنَّ هَٰذَا لَسَٰحِرٌ عَلِيمٌ – The chiefs of the people of Fir’aun (Pharaoh) said: “This is indeed a well-versed sorcerer]. [Al-A’raf 109] So, how can these be reconciled? We say, reconciling this is very easy. The attribution of this statement to his people and to him does not present any contradiction. He expressed it first, and then people followed. This is not unusual (or strange).

Similarly, the statement [لَسَاحِرٌ مُّبِينُ – This is indeed an evident sorcerer] and [لَسَٰحِرٌ عَلِيمٌ – a well versed sorcerer] can be that he said “a well versed sorcerer” at one time and “an evident sorcerer” at another time. This is because a well versed sorcerer must also be evident (or prominent), thus it is known that the subject matter (or narrative) is not limited to one statement. Therefore, a perceptive individual can reconcile what appears to be contradictory within a single narrative. [Source: An Excerpt from “Sharh Usul Fee at-Tafsir” pages 347-35]

The Reason Behind This Article

A beloved cousin called Ibrahim residing in America reached out with a thoughtful inquiry regarding the frequency of mentions of Prophet Musa, peace be upon him, compared to that of Prophet Muhammad, peace and blessings be upon him. He noted that while Musa is referenced numerous times due to his esteemed status as a great Prophet, all Prophets, peace be upon them, hold an esteemed status, with Prophet Muhammad being the most distinguished among them. This led him to question why Musa appears more often in the Qur’an than Prophet Muhammad. Upon receiving his message, I was in the company of my colleagues at the primary school, Ustadh Abu Tasnim and Ustadh Ahmad Qasim. I sought insights on the matter from my colleague at school Ustadh Ahmad Qasim, may Allah preserve him, who kindly directed me to this clarification by Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih al-Uthaymin, may Allah have mercy upon him, and graciously provided me with the relevant pages in Arabic for my perusal. After acquaintance with the Arabic text, I assured my cousin that I would convey this valuable insight to him. May Allah reward him for his desire to increase in knowledge, and may He also bless Ustadh Ahmad Qasim for his generosity and support in sharing this beautiful clarification Aameen.

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