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A Timeless and Lofty Trait: Welcoming Truth from Whoever Utters It

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

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

I invoke Allah as a witness to the fact that my intention in this article is not to address any particular situation or person, regardless of where it may be shared on—be it Twitter, WhatsApp, Telegram, or elsewhere. Instead, this article is simply to demonstrate a timeless lofty character trait from the Qur’an about welcoming truth from anyone, whether it is conveyed by someone we love dearly or not, or from someone of great renown or not. Therefore, the main goal of this article is to remind myself first and foremost and anyone it reaches that we ask Allah to constantly bless us with the ability to self-reflect in all matters, especially the one that will be addressed in this article. In this regard, Ibn Shaheen, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Among the supplications of those who preceded (i.e. the pious predecessors) is that they used to say:

اللَّهُمَّ أَرِنِي الْحَقَّ حَقًّا وَارْزُقْنِي اتِّبَاعَهُ، وَأَرِنِي الْبَاطِلَ بَاطِلًا وَارْزُقْنِي اجْتِنَابَهُ

O Allah! Show me the truth as truth (or as it is in reality) and bestow on me (the ability) to follow it; show me falsehood as falsehood (or as it is in reality) and bestow on me (the ability) to avoid it. [1]

To proceed:

Allah, the Most High, said:

وَٱلَّذِينَ إِذَا ذُكِّرُوا۟ بِـَٔايَٰتِ رَبِّهِمْ لَمْ يَخِرُّوا۟ عَلَيْهَا صُمًّا وَعُمْيَانًا

And those who, when they are reminded of the Signs of their Lord, fall not deaf and blind thereat. [Al-Furqan 73]

Imam Muḥammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymin, may Allah have mercy upon him, commented:

ولم يبين من المذكِّر ليشمل كل مذكِّر؛ وليبين أن قبولهم للتذكير ليس من أجل شخص مذكِّر؛ لأن من الناس من لا يقبل الحق إلا من شخص معين، إذا جاءه من شخص آخر لم يقبله، مثل ما فعل أهل الكتاب بالنبي عليه الصلاة والسلام، وغيرهم أيضًا، لا يقبلون الحق إلا من طائفة معينة أو شخص معين

He (Allah) did not make known (specifically) the one giving the reminder, therefore, it includes every person who gives a reminder. This is because among the people there is one who does not accept the truth except from a specific person; if it reaches him from another person, he does not accept it, such as how the people of the Scripture behaved towards the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him, and other than them, who do not accept the truth except from a specific party or person.

وَلَئِنْ أَتَيْتَ الَّذِينَ أُوتُوا الْكِتَابَ بِكُلِّ آيَةٍ مَا تَبِعُوا قِبْلَتَكَ

And even if you were to bring to the people of the Scripture all the Signs, they would not follow your Qiblah (prayer direction). [Al-Baqarah 145]

فهنا قال: ﴿إِذَا ذُكِّرُوا﴾ ولم يبين المذكر إشارة إلى أنهم إنما يقبلون الحق؛ لأنه حق، لا من أجل من قال به، نعم، فهم لا يقبلون التذكير لأجل شخص مذكِّر أو يردونه من أجل شخص مذكِّر، وإنما يقبلونه؛ لأنه تذكير، وهذا هو الفائدة في حذف الفاعل

 

إِذَا ذُكِّرُوا

“When they are reminded”.

Here (in this phrase), He (Allah) did not make known (specifically) the one who gives the reminder, as a demonstration that they (the ones receiving the reminder) accept the truth (solely) because it is the truth, not because of who utters it. They neither accept nor reject a reminder (merely) due to the person who gives the reminder; rather, they accept it because it is a reminder. This is the benefit of omitting- (from the verse) – the doer (i.e. the one giving the reminder). [2]

The Imam, may Allah have mercy upon him, also stated:

يعني إذا نسوا شيئاً من طاعة الله ثم ذكّرهم أحد بذلك قبلوا وسمعوا وأبصروا
فلم يخروا عليها صماً وعميانا.
وإنما تلقونها بالقبول والراحة ويقومون بما يجب عليهم.
إن بعض الناس والعياذ بالله إذا ذكر بآيات الله استنكف واستكبر.
وقال: من أنت حتى تأمرني؟ من أنت حتى تنهاني؟ أنا أكبر منك. أنا أعلم منك
وهذا محرم
الواجب إذا ذكرك أحدٌ بطاعة الله أن تتذكر، وأن لا تخر على ذلك أصم أعمى

Meaning:

When they forget something pertaining to obedience to Allah, then someone reminds them, they accept it, listen, and hearken to clear insight (give thought, observe, etc.), not falling on deaf ears and blind thereat. Rather, they receive (welcome) it with acceptance and repose and fulfil what is obligated to them.

Indeed, some people – and Allāh’s Refuge is sought – when they are reminded of Allah’s verses, they become dismissive (disdainful, etc.) and arrogant, and say:

“Who are you to command me? Who are you to forbid me (from this or that)? I am older than you. I am more knowledgeable (or I know more) than you”.

This (behaviour) is forbidden. When someone reminds you of obedience to Allah, the obligation is that you take heed; (it should) not fall on deaf ears and be blind thereat. [3]

[1] Sharh Madhahib Ahl As-Sunnah page 40.

[2] An Excerpt from Tafseer Surah Al-Furqan. (Paraphrased). May Allah bless my Salafi brother, colleague, and friend, Abu Zakariyyah (Abdul Malik Al-Congoli Al-Ifreeqee) for sharing the Arabic text of this reminder.

[3](Paraphrased): https://www.alathar.net/home/esound/index.php?op=codevi&coid=166809

river beside trees and grass field

[5] The Self-Evident and Irresistible Nature of Pure Islamic Monotheism

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

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

Allah, The Most High, said:
طه
مَآ أَنزَلۡنَا عَلَيۡكَ ٱلۡقُرۡءَانَ لِتَشۡقَىٰٓ
إِلَّا تَذۡڪِرَةً۬ لِّمَن يَخۡشَىٰ
تَنزِيلاً۬ مِّمَّنۡ خَلَقَ ٱلۡأَرۡضَ وَٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ ٱلۡعُلَى
ٱلرَّحۡمَـٰنُ عَلَى ٱلۡعَرۡشِ ٱسۡتَوَىٰ
لَهُ ۥ مَا فِى ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَمَا فِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ وَمَا بَيۡنَہُمَا وَمَا تَحۡتَ ٱلثَّرَىٰ
وَإِن تَجۡهَرۡ بِٱلۡقَوۡلِ فَإِنَّهُ ۥ يَعۡلَمُ ٱلسِّرَّ وَأَخۡفَى هُوَ‌ۖ ل
ٱللَّهُ لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ‌ۖ لَهُ ٱلۡأَسۡمَآءُ ٱلۡحُسۡنَىٰ

Ta-Ha. We have not sent down the Qur’an unto you (O Muhammad) to cause you distress; but only as a Reminder to those who fear (Allah). A revelation from Him (Allah) Who has created the earth and high heavens. The Most Beneficent (Allah) Istawa (rose over) the (Mighty) Throne (in a manner that suits His Majesty). To Him belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is on the earth, and all that is between them, and all that is under the soil. And if you (O Muhammad) speak (the invocation) aloud, then verily, He knows the secret and that which is yet more hidden. Allah! Laa ilaaha illaa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He)! To Him belong the Best Names. [Taha. 1-8]

مَآ أَنزَلۡنَا عَلَيۡكَ ٱلۡقُرۡءَانَ لِتَشۡقَىٰٓ

We have not sent down the Qur’an unto you (O Muhammad) to cause you distress.

Juwaybir reported from Ad-Dahhak, who said that when Allah revealed the Qur’an to His Messenger, he and his Companions acted upon it. Then the Quraish polytheists said, “This Qur’an was not revealed to Muhammad except to cause him distress”. Thus, Allah, The Most High, revealed:

طه
مَآ أَنزَلۡنَا عَلَيۡكَ ٱلۡقُرۡءَانَ لِتَشۡقَىٰٓ
إِلَّا تَذۡڪِرَةً۬ لِّمَن يَخۡشَىٰ

“Ta-Ha. We have not sent down the Qur’an unto you (O Muhammad) to cause you distress, but only as a Reminder to those who fear (Allah)”.

Meaning: The matter is not what the falsifiers claim; rather the one to whom Allah grants knowledge, this is because (Allah) wants him to acquire abundant good as established in Sahih Al-Bukhari and Sahih Muslim from Mu’aawiyah, may Allah be pleased with him, who said: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“Whoever Allah wants good for, He gives him understanding of the religion”.

إِلَّا تَذۡڪِرَةً۬ لِّمَن يَخۡشَى

But only as a Reminder to those who fear (Allah).

Meaning: Indeed Allah revealed His Book and sent His Messenger as a mercy through which He shows mercy to His slaves, so that the person who ponders might be reminded and benefits from what he hears of the Book of Allah, for it a reminder in which Allah revealed what He has made lawful and unlawful.

تَنزِيلاً۬ مِّمَّنۡ خَلَقَ ٱلۡأَرۡضَ وَٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ ٱلۡعُلَى

A revelation from Him (Allah) Who has created the earth and high heavens.

Meaning: O Muhammad! This Qur’an, given to you, is a revelation from your Lord- the Lord of everything, the Owner of everything and the One Who is Fully Able to do whatever He wills. He created the earth- both its regions that are easy to access and those that are difficult to access. He created the high heavens- elevated and having great distances between each other.

ٱلرَّحۡمَـٰنُ عَلَى ٱلۡعَرۡشِ ٱسۡتَوَىٰ

The Most Beneficent (Allah) Istawa (rose over) the (Mighty) Throne (in a manner that suits His Majesty).

لَهُ ۥ مَا فِى ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَمَا فِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ وَمَا بَيۡنَہُمَا وَمَا تَحۡتَ ٱلثَّرَىٰ

To Him belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is on the earth, and all that is between them, and all that is under the soil.

Meaning: He is the owner of everything in the heavens and the earth. They are in His complete grasp, under His absolute control, will, intent and judgement. He is the Creator of all of them, their owner and God. Neither is there a true deity nor a true Lord besides Him.

And regarding the Ayah

وَإِن تَجۡهَرۡ بِٱلۡقَوۡلِ فَإِنَّهُ ۥ يَعۡلَمُ ٱلسِّرَّ وَأَخۡفَى

And if you (O Muhammad) speak (the invocation) aloud, then verily, He knows the secret and that which is yet more hidden.

Meaning: The One Who revealed this Qur’an [i.e. Allah] is also the One Who created the high heavens and the earth. He knows the secret and that which is even more hidden. Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him, said:

Allah knows what the children of Adam hide in their souls and what is hidden from the children of Adam before they do what they do. Allah knows all of that and His knowledge encompasses what has already taken place and what will happen in future.

Then Allah, The Most High, said:

ٱللَّهُ لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ‌ۖ لَهُ ٱلۡأَسۡمَآءُ ٱلۡحُسۡنَىٰ

Allah! Laa ilaaha illaa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He)! To Him belong the Best Names.

Meaning: Allah is the One Who revealed this Qur’an to you (O Muhammad) and there is no deity worthy of worship except Him. Allah is the possessor of the perfect Names and lofty Attributes. [1]

There is no deity worthy of being loved, feared and invoked besides Him. There is no deity to whom a person should humble himself, turn to in repentance, submission and obedience besides Him. [2]

[1]Al-Misbah Al-Munir Fee Tahdhib Tafsir Ibn Kathir

[2]Tafsir As-Sadi

Gentleness and Harshness in Religious Guidance — The People of Knowledge

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

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

Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdul Wahhab, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated in Al-Usul ath-Thalatha:

“I’lam, Rahimakallaah – Know, may Allah have mercy upon you”.

Shaikh Abdur Razzaq Al-Badr, may Allah preserve him, said:

In the beginning of all the three principles, Imam Muhammad Ibn Abdil Wahhab, may Allah have mercy upon him, started by supplicating for the learner. In the first principle, he said:

اعلم رحمك الله

Know, may Allah have mercy upon you.

In the second principle, he said:

اعلم رحمك الله

Know, may Allah have mercy upon.

In the third principle, he began by saying:

اعلم ارشدك الله لطاعته

Know, may Allah guide you to His obedience.

Beginning with the word اعلم in this treatise and in his other treatises is employed when discussing important and great subjects, and due to this, you find that in the Qur’an, this word اعلم is mentioned in the great subjects and important commandments, such as the statement of Allah:

فَٱعۡلَمۡ أَنَّهُ ۥ لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا ٱللَّهُ

So know (O Muhammad) that Laa ilaaha ill-Allah (none has the right to be worshipped but Allah).

In the Qur’an, there are over 30 verses with this word mentioned in connection with Allah’s Names and Attributes, or in the affirmation of Tawhid and other important and great subjects. It is a word that is mentioned so that the reader’s or listener’s attention is captured.

Also supplicating for others is a sign of sincere advice and it is the path of the sincere advisers, for indeed the sincere adviser combines – for the one who is being advised – beneficial, gentle clarification and sincere supplication. He teaches him in a beneficia, gentle manner and supplicates for him while hoping that Allah benefits him through this knowledge. This is a matter that must be given importance – that a scholar, the one who nurtures others, an admonisher or a khateeb supplicates for the people, that Allah benefits, guides and shows them mercy. This supplication emanates from the mercy in the adviser’s heart, the eagerness in his heart and great desire that Allah benefits those who are being advised or called to Islam.

Sometimes the word رحمة is mentioned on its own and sometimes it is mentioned alongside المغفرة. When they are mentioned together, Al-Maghfirah means forgiveness of one’s previous sins in the past, and Rahma means asking Allah to protect, aid, forgive and guide a person towards righteous deeds and statements. And if one of them is mentioned alone, the meaning of the other is included in it. [1]

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

Rahimakallaah” is a supplication made for the student of knowledge. The Shaikh (Imam Muhammad ibn Abdul Wahhab) supplicates for Allah’s Mercy upon the students of knowledge, that Allah has mercy upon them. Therefore, in this there is gentleness from the teacher towards the student.

Indeed, he begins with a good statement and a righteous supplication so that it has an effect and thereby making the student incline towards his teacher with acceptance. But if he begins with a harsh statement or a statement that is not deemed appropriate, this would make him flee.

Therefore, it is obligated to a teacher and the one who calls to (the path of) Allah, and the one who enjoins good and forbids evil, that he is gentle with the one he addresses – through supplication for him, commendation and soft speech, because this urges towards acceptance. However, as for the stubborn wilful, opposer, this one is to be addressed differently. Allah said:

وَلَا تُجَـٰدِلُوٓاْ أَهۡلَ ٱلۡڪِتَـٰبِ إِلَّا بِٱلَّتِى هِىَ أَحۡسَنُ إِلَّا ٱلَّذِينَ ظَلَمُواْ مِنۡهُمۡ‌ۖ

And argue not with the people of the Scripture unless it be in a way that is better, except with such of them as do wrong]. [29:46]

Those who do wrong among the people of the scripture- wilfully opposing and are haughty- are not addressed with what is better; rather they are addressed with what would prevent from their (harm and misguidance). Allah said:

يَـٰٓأَيُّہَا ٱلنَّبِىُّ جَـٰهِدِ ٱلۡڪُفَّارَ وَٱلۡمُنَـٰفِقِينَ وَٱغۡلُظۡ عَلَيۡہِمۡ‌ۚ وَمَأۡوَٮٰهُمۡ جَهَنَّمُ‌ۖ وَبِئۡسَ ٱلۡمَصِيرُ

O Prophet (Muhammad)! Strive hard against the disbelievers and the hypocrites, and be harsh against them, their abode is Hell,-and worst indeed is that destination]. [9:73]

Striving against the hypocrites is not carried out with weapons, rather it is carried out with proofs, statements, refutation against them with harshness that will prevent (them from propagating their misguidance and harm) and to keep the people away from them. Allah said about them: [وَقُل لَّهُمۡ فِىٓ أَنفُسِہِمۡ قَوۡلاَۢ بَلِيغً۬ا – But admonish them, and speak to them an effective word to reach their innerselves] [4:63]

Therefore, there is a specific type of speech that is prescribed for these people because they are wilful opposers and people afflicted with pride. They do not want the truth, rather they want to misguide the people. So, they are addressed in a way they deserve. As for the seeker of guidance, this one is addressed with gentleness and mercy. This is because he wants the truth, knowledge and something beneficial. [2]

Allamah Rabee Bin Hadi Al-Mad’khali, may Allah have mercy upon him, was asked?

When should we employ gentleness and when should we employ harshness in Dawah to the path of Allah, and in (our) dealings with the people?

Response: The initial approach (or the basis) with regards to Dawah is gentleness, softness, and wisdom. This is the basis (or initial approach) regarding it. May Allah bless you, however, if you find someone who is obstinate, does not accept the truth, you establish proof against him and he rejects (it), then you may employ a rebuttal. If you possess (political) authority this person is a caller, you discipline him with the sword, which could lead to execution (in Islamic law) if he persists in spreading corruption.

There are among the scholars – from the various schools of Islamic jurisprudence – who hold that this person is more severe in corruption than highway robbers. Therefore, he is advised, and proof is established against him, if he refuses, then the Hakim Al-Shar’ee (i.e. the one recognised as the legitimate ruler in the Shariah) may embark upon punishing him, which maybe through imprisonment, exile, or execution.

May Allah bless you, indeed, they (i.e. the Scholars) issued the judgement of execution against Jahm ibn Safwan and others, Bishr al-Mareesee, and other than them; among them (i.e. those officially executed) were Ja’ad ibn Dirham. This is the ruling of the scholars against those who obstinately persist in spreading their Bidah. And if Allah benefits him (with guidance) and he recants, this is what is sought after. [3] [end of quotes]

Finally, caution required! We must seek advice and guidance from the upright people of knowledge when dealing with the likes of those who persist upon error because when to employ gentleness and harshness can be very ambiguous in some situations, thus, gentleness without guidance maybe exploited by one utilising victim mentality in order to escape accountability and harshness without guidance maybe exploited by an extremist. Therefore, we need the insight of the experienced people of knowledge whenever we  encounter different situations. And Allah knows best.

[1] Sharh Usul ath-Thalatha Audio Number 1. Masjid An-Nabawi. Date: 22/08/1434.

[2] An Excerpt from ‘Sharh Usul Ath-Thalaatha. page13-15.

[3] متى نستعمل اللين ومتى نستعمل الشدة في الدعوة إلى الله وفي المعاملات مع الناس؟ – العلامة الشيخ ربيع بن هادي عمير المدخلي

متى نستعمل اللين ومتى نستعمل الشدة في الدعوة إلى الله وفي المعاملات مع الناس؟

[4] Sharh Umdah Al-Ahkam: Audio lesson 9

[4] The Self-Evident and Irresistible Nature of Pure Islamic Monotheism

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

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

Allah, The Most High, said:

فَٱعۡلَمۡ أَنَّهُ ۥ لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا ٱللَّهُ وَٱسۡتَغۡفِرۡ لِذَنۢبِكَ وَلِلۡمُؤۡمِنِينَ وَٱلۡمُؤۡمِنَـٰتِ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ يَعۡلَمُ مُتَقَلَّبَكُمۡ

So know [O Muhammad] that Laa ilaaha ill-Allah [none has the right to be worshipped but Allah], and ask forgiveness for your sin, and also for [the sin of] believing men and believing women. And Allah knows well your moving about, and your place of rest [in your homes, graves etc]. [Surah Muhammad. verse 19]

It is Fard Ayn [i.e. an individual duty (or obligation)] to have knowledge of Laa Ilaaha Ilal laah [i.e. that none has the right to be worshipped except Allah], because it is knowledge a person cannot do without. This knowledge can be acquired through several ways and the greatest of them is to seek knowledge about the sound meanings of Allah’s Names and Attributes, because that teaches a person the Greatness of Allah, directs him to deify and worship Allah alone and makes him know that Allah alone is worthy of all praise.

To know that Allah [The Most High] alone is the Creator, the One in control of all affairs of the universe and this necessitates that He alone has the right to be deified and worshipped.

To know that Allaah [The Most High] alone bestowed the creation with all the apparent blessings they have [i.e. Islaam, the lawful pleasures of this world- including health, good looks, etc] and all the hidden blessings [i.e. Iman, knowledge, wisdom, guidance for doing righteous deeds, and also the pleasures and delights of the Hereafter in Paradise, etc]. All this necessitates that the hearts should be attached to Allaah, love Him, deify Him alone and associate no partners to Him.

To pay attention to what one sees and hears regarding the reward Allah [The Most High] bestows on those who establish Laa Ilaaha Ilal laah- the help He gives them and the bliss He has kept for them in the afterlife; and the punishment He inflicts on the enemies of Tawhid- those who associate partners with Him in worship. All this shows that Allah alone has the right to be worshipped.

To know the characteristics of the idols and the other false deities that are worshipped besides Allah due to the fact that they are deficient in every way and dependent on others. Neither do they have the ability to harm nor benefit; neither do they have the ability to cause death nor give life, nor can they raise the dead. Neither can they aid those who worship them nor can they give them an atom’s weight of benefit, nor repel an atom’s weight of harm from them. The one who knows that these are some of the characteristics of the idols and false deities will know that none has the right worshipped except Allaah and that everything worshipped besides Allaah is false.

To know that the best of the creation-those people who possess the noblest and most perfect manners, the most sound intellects, views and the most perfect in knowledge- are the Messengers and Prophets of Allah and then the pious learned scholars, and they all testify to the fact that Allah alone has the right to be worshipped.

An Excerpt from “Taysir As-Sadi”

[4] The Shariah as the Sole Decisive Proof of Elevation and Nobility through Firm Adherence

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

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

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

Many people humble themselves to one another more than they humble themselves to Allah – The Most High, The Most Great. It is neither permissible for a person to be a slave except to Allah, (i.e. not to be subservient to anyone in a manner that only Allah deserves) nor humble himself except to the Greatness of Allah. Allah [Glorified be He and free is He from all imperfections] said:

هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِى لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ‌ۖ عَـٰلِمُ ٱلۡغَيۡبِ وَٱلشَّهَـٰدَةِ‌ۖ هُوَ ٱلرَّحۡمَـٰنُ ٱلرَّحِيمُ
هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِى لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ ٱلۡمَلِكُ ٱلۡقُدُّوسُ ٱلسَّلَـٰمُ ٱلۡمُؤۡمِنُ ٱلۡمُهَيۡمِنُ ٱلۡعَزِيزُ ٱلۡجَبَّارُ ٱلۡمُتَڪَبِّرُ‌ۚ سُبۡحَـٰنَ ٱللَّهِ عَمَّا يُشۡرِڪُونَ
هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلۡخَـٰلِقُ ٱلۡبَارِئُ ٱلۡمُصَوِّرُ‌ۖ لَهُ ٱلۡأَسۡمَآءُ ٱلۡحُسۡنَىٰ‌ۚ يُسَبِّحُ لَهُ ۥ مَا فِى ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَٱلۡأَرۡضِ‌ۖ وَهُوَ ٱلۡعَزِيزُ ٱلۡحَكِيمُ

He is Allah besides Whom none has the right to be worshipped but He; the King, the Holy, the One Free from all defects, the Giver of security, the Watcher over His creatures, the All-Mighty, the Compeller, the Supreme. Glory be to Allaah! [High is He] above all that they associate as partners with Him. He is Allaah, the Creator, the Inventor of all things, the Bestower of forms. To Him belong the Best Names. All that is in the heavens and the earth glorify Him. And He is the All-Mighty, the All-Wise. [Surah Al-Hashar’ Ayaat 23-24]

Examine those Ayaat in the last part of Surah Al-Hashar! The statement:

هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِى لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ

He is Allah besides Whom none has the right to be worshipped but He)]: This necessitates Tawheed Al-Uluhiyyah [The Oneness as the only one Who has the right to be worshipped].

The statement:

هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِى لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ‌ۖ عَـٰلِمُ ٱلۡغَيۡبِ وَٱلشَّهَـٰدَةِ‌ۖ هُوَ ٱلرَّحۡمَـٰنُ ٱلرَّحِيمُ

He is Allah, besides Whom none has the right to be worshipped but He, the All-Knower of the unseen and the seen (open). He is the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful]: This necessitates Tawheed Al-Asmaa Was Sifaat [The Oneness of Allah in His Names and Attributes.

The statement:
هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلۡخَـٰلِقُ ٱلۡبَارِئُ ٱلۡمُصَوِّرُ‌ۖ

He is Allah, the Creator, the Inventor of all things, the Bestower of forms]. This necessitates Tawheed Ar-Roboobiyyah [The Oneness of Allah in His Lordship].

These few Ayaat in the last part of Surah Al-Hashr necessitate all the categories of Tawheed [Pure Islamic Monotheism]. [1]

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

The love for high status and wealth often leads to the abandonment of fairness, which in turn distances individuals from the truth. This abandonment further results in the concealment of truth and the failure to clarify what Allah has obligated. The two aforementioned matters are a greater enemy to an individual than a pair of hunting wolves, [Footnote a] as stated by Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] because it was the reason that led the people of the scripture to distort Allah’s Books and hide the clear evidences and guidance that were revealed to them, such as what happened to the Jewish Rabbis (i.e. those who deviated after the advents of their Prophets). Allah, in His Mighty Book, and the Messenger, through authentic narrations, have both informed us about this.

The Imam also stated:

We often see a man who holds a belief that aligns with truth and correctness. However, when he speaks to someone who disagrees with him- one who is inclined towards something of the innovated matters in the religion, and especially if that person holds a position of leadership or worldly wealth, not to mention a king, he agrees with him, strengthens, supports and aids him against others.

The least in such circumstances is that he would hide what he believes is the truth and show contempt – in the presence of a person from whom it is neither possible to receive harm nor benefit – towards what has become clear to him is the right thing, so, what about someone from whom harm and benefit are possible? This behavior is essentially prioritizing worldly things and the life of this world over the religion and the afterlife. If he observed and reflected upon what has happened to him, he would have realised that his inclination toward the (vain) desires of a man, two men, three or more individuals – among those he compliments within that gathering, conceals the truth to be in agreement with them and to gain affection, acquire their possessions, and avoid being isolated by them -is a deficiency in upholding the truth and tantamount to exalting falsehood. If it were not for the fact that these individuals hold a higher position in his eyes than the Lord, he would not have been inclined to their (vain) desires and abandoned what he knows to be what Allah wants and demands from His servants. [2]

Footnote a: Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] said, “Two hungry wolves let loose among sheep are not more harmful than a person’s craving after wealth and status is to his Religion”. [3]

Imam Muhamad Ibn Saalih Al-Uthaymeen [may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “Two hungry wolves let loose on a flock -then what will remain from the flock?! Even when a single wolf stops eating because its stomach is full, it still kills the rest of the flock; then what about two hungry wolves let loose on a flock!! Not a single will remain. Likewise, a person who craves wealth or status will corrupt the religion and because of this, it is obligated to a person that his intention is far removed from this- far removed from craving wealth and status in the religion. We ask Allah to aid us to accomplish this”. [4]

We ask Allah:

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْأَلُكَ حُبَّكَ وَحُبَّ مَنْ يُحِبُّكَ وَالْعَمَلَ الَّذِي يُبَلِّغُنِي حُبَّكَ

O Allah, I ask you for your love and the love of those who love you and the deeds that will bring me your love.

[1] An Excerpt from Majmu Wa Rasaail Wa Fataawa 1/22

[2] An Excerpt from Adabud Talab Wa Muntahaa Al-Adab. Pages 93-95. Slightly paraphrased]

[3] Reported by Tirmidhee no.2376. Declared Authentic by Imaam Albaani (rahimahullaah) Saheeh Sunan At-Tirmidhee Vol 2 page 553

[4] At-taleeq Alaa Siyaasah Shar’iyyah. pages 454-455

The Grave Danger of Impenitence, and the Amazing Outcomes of Penitence and Submitting to Truth

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

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

The Danger of Persisting Upon Sins

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

Sins breed similar sins, and they give rise to one another, making it difficult for a person to abandon them, as some of the pious predecessors said, “Indeed, one of the punishments for an evil deed is to commit another one after it, and one of the rewards for good deeds is doing a good deed after it. When a servant of Allah does a good deed, another good deed says, “Let me be like that one”. The third one does the same, and so on, leading to an increase in rewards and a multiplication of good deeds, and the same applies to evil deeds, until good deeds and sins becoming essential traits and established habits.

If a person who does good neglects obedience, they will feel constricted and uneasy, much like a fish out of water until it returns to its natural environment to find peace. If a sinner turns away from wrongdoing and embraces righteousness, they may feel a sense of inner turmoil, leading them to revert to their old ways. Many wrongdoers engage in sinful acts not out of pleasure or desire, but rather due to the discomfort they experience when trying to abandon those actions. [1]

 

The Weight of Humility, Regret and Sincere Repentance, and The Destructive Outcomes of Self-amazement

One of the pious predecessors said:

Indeed a servant commits a sin due to which he enters Jannah, and he performs a good deed due to which he enters the Fire”. It was said: “How?” He said, “He commits the sin and does not cease thinking about it, fearing (the evil consequences), very unhappy about it, apprehensive, weeps due to it, regretful, feeling ashamed in the presence of his Lord, The Exalted, his head lowered (in submission and humility) in the presence of (his Lord) and sorrowful. Then, this sin becomes a cause of his happiness and success (i.e. due to repentance), and until it becomes more beneficial for him than performing numerous acts of obedience due to the (good) things that results from it that leads to happiness and success; and until the sin (i.e. due to regret and repentance that takes place thereafter) becomes a cause for his entry into Jannah; or he performs a good deed and does not cease to regard it as a favour to his Lord, becomes proud due to it, (afflicted with) self-regard and self-amazement due to it, presumptuous, and saying, “I did such and such”, so this leads him to self-amazement, pride, boasting and presumptuousness which becomes a cause of his destruction.

When a person hears this, he is amazed by it, for indeed it is sin that enters a person into the fire and good deeds enter a person into Jannah, so how can a sin be the cause of entry into Jannah and how can a good deed be the cause of entry into the fire?! So, he clarified it. A servant of (Allāh) sins due to being overcome by shaytan, but then he hastens towards his Lord (in repentance), for he knows that he has a Lord who forgives and accepts repentance, thus, he does not stop weeping and turning to Allah, increases in the performance of good deeds which he hopes will be a cause of wiping away his sin and this becomes a reason for his entry into paradise. On the other hand, a good deed may lead a person to the fire – not due to the good deed itself – due to the [behaviour] of the person after the performance of that good deed, such as being self-amazed and regarding that deed as a favour to his Lord.

They regard as favour upon you [O Muhammad] that they have embraced Islam. Say: “Count not your Islam as a favour upon me. Nay, but Allah has conferred a favour upon you, that He has guided you to the Faith, if you indeed are true. [Al-Hujurat. 17]

And had it not been for the Grace of Allah and His Mercy on you, not one of you would ever have been pure from sins]. [Al-Nur. 21]

Therefore, neither think that you have done a favour nor be afflicted with self-regard- neither become self-amazed nor presumptuous. This behaviour is from that which will nullify deeds, such as self-amazement, presumptuousness and show off. This behaviour might occur after the performance of a good deed, for example, it may be an act of obedience which Allah has enabled you to perform or an matter related to knowledge bestowed on you, or memorisation, so the person becomes presumptuous, shows off and becomes self-amazed, which becomes a cause of entry into the fire – and Allah’s Refuge is sought.

There is a beneficial reminder in this matter and that is when a person commits a sin, he should hasten towards repentance, turn to Allah in repentance- with complete submission, obedience and humility, and he should know that he has a Lord Who forgives. He should be eager to meet Allah on the Day of Judgement without the burden of his sins. If he is favoured with (the ability to perform) an act of obedience or favoured with some knowledge, he should acknowledge Allah’s Favour as well as acknowledge that he has great shortcomings, because when a person is attentive to these things, it will repel self-amazement. If a blessing is bestowed on a person, firstly he should know that it is from Allah; then he busies himself with gratitude to Allah, and then knows that he has many shortcomings, because this will repel self-amazement from him. [2]

 

Tremendous Outcomes of Submitting to Truth 

Al-Allamah Abdur Rahman Bin Yahyah Al-Mu’allimee, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated:

Contemplate the fact that truth is noble and falsehood is lowly. Contemplate the Greatness of Allah, The Mighty and Majestic- the fact that Allah is the Lord of the entire universe, Allah loves truth and hates falsehood, and that the one who follows truth is deserving of the Pleasure of the Lord of the universe. Allah, Glorified be He, will be his protector in the worldly life and the Afterlife by choosing for him everything that is good, better, more beneficial, more perfect, more noble and loftier until Allah removes his soul whilst being pleased with him. Then Allah raises him, brings him close and makes him dwell in paradise with honour- in permanent bliss and eternal nobility which no imagination can fully conceive its greatness. He should contemplate the fact that the one who clings to falsehood is deserving of the displeasure, anger and punishment of the Lord of the universe, and if he receives anything of worldly bliss, then that is only a means of humiliating him in order that he is increased in being distanced from Allah, so that the painful torment of the afterlife is multiplied for him, which no imagination can fully conceive its severity.

He should contemplate the bliss of the worldly life [i.e. temporary] as compared to the pleasure of the Lord of the universe and the bliss in the afterlife [i.e. eternal], compare the misery of the worldly life to displeasure of the Lord of the universe and the punishment in the afterlife [i.e. the severest punishment in this life is nowhere equal to punishment in the afterlife]. He should contemplate the statement of Allah, The Mighty and Majestic:

وَقَالُواْ لَوۡلَا نُزِّلَ هَـٰذَا ٱلۡقُرۡءَانُ عَلَىٰ رَجُلٍ۬ مِّنَ ٱلۡقَرۡيَتَيۡنِ عَظِيمٍ
أَهُمۡ يَقۡسِمُونَ رَحۡمَتَ رَبِّكَ‌ۚ نَحۡنُ قَسَمۡنَا بَيۡنَہُم مَّعِيشَتَہُمۡ فِى ٱلۡحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنۡيَا‌ۚ وَرَفَعۡنَا بَعۡضَہُمۡ فَوۡقَ بَعۡضٍ۬ دَرَجَـٰتٍ۬ لِّيَتَّخِذَ بَعۡضُہُم بَعۡضً۬ا سُخۡرِيًّ۬ا‌ۗ وَرَحۡمَتُ رَبِّكَ خَيۡرٌ۬ مِّمَّا يَجۡمَعُونَ
وَلَوۡلَآ أَن يَكُونَ ٱلنَّاسُ أُمَّةً۬ وَٲحِدَةً۬ لَّجَعَلۡنَا لِمَن يَكۡفُرُ بِٱلرَّحۡمَـٰنِ لِبُيُوتِہِمۡ سُقُفً۬ا مِّن فِضَّةٍ۬ وَمَعَارِجَ عَلَيۡہَا يَظۡهَرُونَ
وَلِبُيُوتِہِمۡ أَبۡوَٲبً۬ا وَسُرُرًا عَلَيۡہَا يَتَّكِـُٔونَ
وَزُخۡرُفً۬ا‌ۚ وَإِن ڪُلُّ ذَٲلِكَ لَمَّا مَتَـٰعُ ٱلۡحَيَوٰةِ ٱلدُّنۡيَا‌ۚ وَٱلۡأَخِرَةُ عِندَ رَبِّكَ لِلۡمُتَّقِينَ

And they say: “Why is not this Qur’an sent down to some great man of the two towns (Makkah and Ta’if)?” Is it they who would portion out the Mercy of your Lord? It is We Who portion out between them their livelihood in this world, and We raised some of them above others in ranks, so that some may employ others in their work. But the Mercy (Paradise) of your Lord (O Muhammad) is better than the (wealth of this world) which they amass. And were it not that all mankind would have become of one community (all disbelievers, desiring worldly life only), We would have provided for those who disbelieve in the Most Beneficent (Allah), silver roofs for their houses, and elevators (and stair-ways, etc. of silver) whereby they ascend, and for their houses, doors (of silver), and thrones (of silver) on which they could recline, and adornments of gold. Yet all this (i.e. the roofs, doors, stairs, elevators, thrones etc. of their houses) would have been nothing but an enjoyment of this world. And the Hereafter with your Lord is only for the Muttaqun”. [Az-Zuhkruf. 31-35] [3]

We ask Allah:

اللهم آتِ نفسي تقواها أنت خيرُ مَن زكَّاها أنت وليُّها ومولاها أعوذُ بك من قلبٍ لا يخشعُ وعلمٍ لا ينفعُ ودعوةٍ لا يُستجابُ لها

O Allah! Grant my soul its piety, because You are the Best to purify it. You are its Protector and Guardian. I seek refuge in You from a heart that does not fear (You), the knowledge which does not benefit, and the supplication that is not responded to.” [4]

[1] Ad-Da’u Wad Dawa 60-61. Publisher: Dar Al-Hadith Al-Qahira 1430H (2009)]. May Allah bless my younger brother and colleague – Ahmad Qasim – who provided the Arabic text of this English translation.

[2] An Excerpt from Sharh Al-Wabil As-Sayyib. Lesson 1. By Shaikh Abdur Razzaaq Al-Badr (may Allāh preserve him) https://al-badr.net/sub/371. Slightly paraphrased

[3] An Aathaar Ash-, Shaikh Al-Allamah Abdur Rahmaan Bin Yahyah Al-Mu’allimee 11/309

[4] Sahih Muslim 2722

The Danger of Complacency and Procrastination

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, 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.

Allah, The Most High, said:

أَلَمْ يَأْنِ لِلَّذِينَ آمَنُوا أَن تَخْشَعَ قُلُوبُهُمْ لِذِكْرِ اللَّهِ وَمَا نَزَلَ مِنَ الْحَقِّ وَلَا يَكُونُوا كَالَّذِينَ أُوتُوا الْكِتَابَ مِن قَبْلُ فَطَالَ عَلَيْهِمُ الْأَمَدُ فَقَسَتْ قُلُوبُهُمْ ۖ وَكَثِيرٌ مِّنْهُمْ فَاسِقُونَ

Has not the time come for the hearts of those who believe (in the Oneness of Allah – Islamic Monotheism) to be affected by Allah’s Reminder (this Qur’an), and that which has been revealed of the truth, lest they become as those who received the Scripture [the Taurat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel)] before (i.e. Jews and Christians), and the term was prolonged for them and so their hearts were hardened? And many of them were Fasiqun (rebellious, disobedient to Allah). [Al-Hadid.16]

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

When it is the case that Iman necessitates and demands humility, they were called from the station of Iman to the station of Ihsan, which means, “Has the time not come for them to reach Ihsan through Iman and actualise that through submission to Allah’s Reminder, which Allah sent down to them?

Ibn Mas’ud, may Allah be pleased with him, said:

There were only four years between (the period when we accepted) Islam and (the revelation of this) admonition to us”. (1)

وَلَا يَكُونُوا كَالَّذِينَ أُوتُوا الْكِتَابَ مِن قَبْلُ فَطَالَ عَلَيْهِمُ الْأَمَدُ فَقَسَتْ قُلُوبُهُمْ ۖ وَكَثِيرٌ مِّنْهُمْ فَاسِقُونَ

Lest they become as those who received the Scripture [the Taurat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel)] before (i.e. Jews and Christians), and the term was prolonged for them and so their hearts were hardened.

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

Meaning, do not be like those to whom Allah revealed the book, which obligates on the hearts humility and complete submission, but they neither preserved (the scripture) nor (maintained) firmness upon it; rather, the term was prolonged for them while they continued on heedlessness, thus, their Iman dwindled and their certainty ceased. Therefore, the hearts require constant reminders of what Allah has revealed and discourse about its wisdom. It is not permitted to become heedless of this, as it is a cause of hardening the hearts.

Then Allah said in verse 17:

اعْلَمُوا أَنَّ اللَّهَ يُحْيِي الْأَرْضَ بَعْدَ مَوْتِهَا ۚ قَدْ بَيَّنَّا لَكُمُ الْآيَاتِ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَعْقِلُونَ

Know that Allah gives life to the earth after its death! Indeed We have made clear the Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) to you, so that may understand.

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

فإن الآيات تدل العقول على العلم بالمطالب الإلهية، والذي أحيا الأرض بعد موتها قادر على أن يحيي الأموات بعد موتهم، فيجازيهم بأعمالهم، والذي أحيا الأرض بعد موتها بماء المطر قادر على أن يحيي القلوب الميتة بما أنزله من الحق على رسوله، وهذه الآية تدل على أنه لا عقل لمن لم يهتد بآيات الله و[لم] ينقد لشرائع الله

For indeed, the Ayat direct the (sound) intellects to الطالب الالهية (the knowledge regarding Tawhid, Prophethood, the Hereafter and other matters related to sound creed). And the One who revives the earth after its death is able to resurrect the dead after their death, so as to reward them for their deeds. And the One who revives the earth through rainwater is able to revive the dead hearts through the truth He has revealed to His Messenger. This verse demonstrates that there is no (sound) intellect for the one who is neither guided through Allah’s Ayat nor submits to the divine ordainments. (2)

The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

Indeed, every deed has enthusiasm, and every enthusiasm has a time limit (or period of inactivity). Whoever’s time of enthusiasm is for my Sunnah has been guided and he is ruined if upon other than that.(3)

In another narration, the Prophet said, “So, if the doer behaves in an upright manner and is moderate, then have hope for him (i.e. success)”. (4)

“If its doer behaves in an upright manner and is moderate”.

Al-Allamah Al-Mubaarakrufee, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Meaning, the doer becomes moderate (i.e. within the boundaries of the Shariah) and avoids the two extremes- excess at the time of enthusiasm and negligence at the time of inactivity. (5)

We ask Allah:

 اللهمَّ إني أعوذُ بكَ من العجزِ والكسلِ والجُبنِ والبُخلِ والهمِّ وعذابِ القبرِ وفتنةِ الدجَّالِ اللهم آتِ نفسي تقواها أنت خيرُ مَن زكَّاها أنت وليُّها ومولاها أعوذُ بك من قلبٍ لا يخشعُ وعلمٍ لا ينفعُ ودعوةٍ لا يُستجابُ لها

O Allah! I seek refuge in You from incapacity, laziness, cowardice, miserliness, stress, the punishment of the grave, and the fitna of Dajjal. O Allah! Grant my soul its piety, because You are the Best to purify it. You are its Protector and Guardian. I seek refuge in You from a heart that does not fear (You), the knowledge which does not benefit, and the supplication that is not responded to.” [6]

[1]: An Excerpt from “Badaa’i at-Tafseer Al-Jaami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imaam Ibn Al-Qayyim’ 3/129. Publisher: Dar Ibn Al-Jawziyyah 2nd ed 1431AH.

[2] An Excerpt from ‘Tayseer Al-Kareem Ar-Rahmaan fee Tafseer Kalaam al-Mannaan’.

[3] Sahih Al-Jami 2152

[4] Sahih At-Targheem 57

[5] Tuhfah Al-Ahwadahi 7/126

[6] Sahih Muslim 2722

[3] The Self-Evident and Irresistible Nature of Pure Islamic Monotheism

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

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

Allah, The Most High, said:

هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِى لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ‌ۖ عَـٰلِمُ ٱلۡغَيۡبِ وَٱلشَّهَـٰدَةِ‌ۖ هُوَ ٱلرَّحۡمَـٰنُ ٱلرَّحِيمُ

هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِى لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ ٱلۡمَلِكُ ٱلۡقُدُّوسُ ٱلسَّلَـٰمُ ٱلۡمُؤۡمِنُ ٱلۡمُهَيۡمِنُ ٱلۡعَزِيزُ ٱلۡجَبَّارُ ٱلۡمُتَڪَبِّرُ‌ۚ سُبۡحَـٰنَ ٱللَّهِ عَمَّا يُشۡرِڪُونَ

هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلۡخَـٰلِقُ ٱلۡبَارِئُ ٱلۡمُصَوِّرُ‌ۖ لَهُ ٱلۡأَسۡمَآءُ ٱلۡحُسۡنَىٰ‌ۚ يُسَبِّحُ لَهُ ۥ مَا فِى ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَٱلۡأَرۡضِ‌ۖ وَهُوَ ٱلۡعَزِيزُ ٱلۡحَكِيمُ

He is Allah, than Whom there is Laa ilaaha illaa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He) the All-Knower of the unseen and the seen (open). He is the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful. He is Allah than Whom there is Laa ilaaha illaa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He) the King, the Holy, the One Free from all defects, the Giver of security, the Watcher over His creatures, the All-Mighty, the Compeller, the Supreme. Glory be to Allah! (High is He) above all that they associate as partners with Him. He is Allah, the Creator, the Inventor of all things, the Bestower of forms. To Him belong the Best Names . All that is in the heavens and the earth glorify Him. And He is the All-Mighty, the All-Wise. [Al-Hashr. Aayaat 22-24]

[هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِى لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ‌ۖ – He is Allah, than Whom there is none that has the right to be worshipped but He)]: Meaning: Allah [The Most High] informed us that He alone has the right to be deified and worshipped, for there is no deity worthy of worship besides Him. And that is because He is Perfect [free is He from all imperfections, deficiencies, weaknesses, similarities, co-equals, faults, defects etc]. He alone bestowed everything to the creation out of His All-Encompassing Generosity and He alone controls all the affairs of the universe in perfect order. Every other thing taken as a deity besides Him is false and does not have an atom’s weight of right to be worshipped. Any other thing taken as a deity besides Him is deficient and dependent [or in need].

[عَـٰلِمُ ٱلۡغَيۡبِ وَٱلشَّهَـٰدَةِ‌ۖ – The All-Knower of the unseen and the seen (open)]; Meaning: Allah [The Most High] described Himself as having All Encompassing knowledge. His knowledge encompasses what is hidden from the creation and that which can be seen.

[هُوَ ٱلرَّحۡمَـٰنُ ٱلرَّحِيمُ – (He is Ar-Rahmaan-The Most Merciful)]:

Meaning:

Allah described Himself that He has an All-Encompassing Mercy which reaches everything and every living thing [a]; “And He is Ar-Raheem-The Bestower of Mercy”. Meaning: He bestowed special mercy to the believers, just as He said in another verse:

[وَكَانَ بِالْمُؤْمِنِينَ رَحِيمًا -And He is Ever Most Merciful to the believers (33:43)][b]

Then Allah [The Most High] reiterated that He alone is the true and only deity worthy of worship, saying:

[هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلَّذِى لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ – He is Allah than Whom there is Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He)].

Then Allah [The Most High] stated that He is [ٱلۡمَلِكُ -The King]: Meaning: The owner of everything in the heavens and the earth. All the inhabitants and everything in the heavens and the earth belong to Him, completely in need of Him and under His dominion.

Then Allah [The Most High] said that He is: [ ٱلۡقُدُّوسُ ٱلسَّلَـٰمُ- The Pure and Perfect; The One Free from all defects];

[ٱلۡمُؤۡمِنُ –The True and Trustworthy, The Granter of Security]; [ٱلۡمُهَيۡمِنُ -The Trustworthy and Ever Watchful Witness]; [ٱلۡعَزِيزُ – The All-Mighty or The Invincible]; [ٱلۡجَبَّارُ-The Exalted and All-Mighty Compeller]; [ٱلۡمُتَڪَبِّرُ‌ۚ – The One Supreme in Glory, The Justly and Rightfully Proud].

Then Allah [The Most High] said:

[سُبۡحَـٰنَ ٱللَّهِ عَمَّا يُشۡرِڪُونَ – Glory be to Allah! (High is He) above all that they associate as partners with Him].

This statement declares Allah free from all that is falsely ascribed to Him by those who associate partners with Him and those who wilfully turn away from Him.

Then Allah [The Most High] said:

[هُوَ ٱللَّهُ ٱلۡخَـٰلِقُ – He is Allah, the Creator]: Meaning: The Creator of all the creation. [ ٱلۡبَارِئُ- The Originator]; [ٱلۡمُصَوِّرُ‌-The Bestower of forms].

Then Allah [The Most High] said:

[لَهُ ٱلۡأَسۡمَآءُ ٱلۡحُسۡنَىٰ – To Him belong the Best Names]: Meaning: He has many Names, which none can enumerate nor does anyone know all of them except Himself. All His Names and Attributes are perfect -[free from all deficiencies, defects etc].

Then Allah [The Most High] said:

[يُسَبِّحُ لَهُ ۥ مَا فِى ٱلسَّمَـٰوَٲتِ وَٱلۡأَرۡضِ‌ – All that is in the heavens and the earth glorify Him].

[وَهُوَ ٱلۡعَزِيزُ ٱلۡحَكِيمُ – And He is The All-Mighty or The Invincible; The All-Wise]: Meaning: Whatever He wants to occur will occur, and nothing occurs except due to a perfect wisdom and benefit. [1]

[1 & a:] Tafsir As-Sadi

[b] Al-Misbaah Al-Muneer Fee Tahdheeb Tafseer Ibn Katheer

NB: Translation of the Names of Allah in this article was taken from the translation of the Noble Qur’an’ by Dr Muhsin Khan and Shaikh Taqi-yuddeen al-Hilaali, as well as from a poster by Salafipublications.

The Greatest Declaration of The Day

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, 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.

Indeed, there are numerous texts about the Adhan- the call to the prayer and an announcement of its beginning time through specific wordings- in the Sunnah of the noble Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, demonstrating its virtue, great importance, beneficial (outcomes) and worth for both the Mu’adhdhin and the one who hears it. Al-Bukhari, may Allah have mercy upon him, reported from Abu Sa’eed Al-Khudri, may Allah be pleased with him, who said:

“Whoever hears the Adhaan, whether a human being, a Jinn or any other creature will be witness for you on the Day of Judgement”. (a)

In this hadith, there is proof to show that everyone who hears the voice of the Mu’adh’dhin – whether a human being, a Jinn, a tree, a stone or the animals -will bear witness for him on the day of judgement. In this is proof that it is recommended to raise one’s voice when calling the Adhan so that those who witness for him become numerous, as long as it neither strains nor harms him.

Al-Bukhari and Muslim, may Allah have mercy on both of them, reported from Abu Hurairah, may Allah be pleased with him, who said: Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:,

“If the people knew (the reward for) calling the Adhaan and standing in the first row (in congregational prayers), and found no other way except by drawing lots, they would draw lots; and if they knew (the reward of) the Dhur prayer (at its earliest appointed time), they would race for it (go early); and if they knew the (reward of) Ishaa and Fajr prayers in congregation, they would come to offer them even if they had to crawl”. [Sahih Al-Bukhari Book of Adhaan](b)

Al-Bukhari and Muslim reported from Abu Hurairah who said that the Messenger of Allah said:

“When the Adhaan is called, Satan takes to his heels and passes wind with noise during his flight in order not to hear the A’dhaan. When the A’dhaan is completed he comes back, and again take to his heels when the Iqaamah is called; and after its completion he returns again till he whispers into the heart of the person [to divert his attention from his prayer] and makes him remember things which he does not recall to his mind before the prayer and that causes him to forget how much he has prayed”.(c)

The hadith shows that the Adhaan repels the shaytan and that he runs away in terror in order not to hear it. When the Adhaan finishes he comes back to whisper to the performer of the prayer in order to ruin his prayer. The texts showing the virtues of the Adhaan are many.

What Should Muslim Do When the Adhaan Is Heard?

When a Muslim hears the Adhaan, it is recommended that he says the same as uttered by the Mu’adh-dhin. It is reported in Sahih Muslim from Umar Ibn Al-Khattab, may Allah be pleased with him, who said: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“When the Mu’adh-dhin says: ‘Allaah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest’, then you should say: ‘Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest’; (and when the Mu’adh-dhin) says: ‘I testify that there is no god worthy of worship except Allaah’, you should say: ‘I testify that there is no god worthy of worship except Allah’; and when he says: ‘I testify that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah’, you should say: ‘I testify that Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger’. When he (the Mu’adh-dhin) says: ‘Hayya Alas Salah- Come to prayer’, you should say: [لَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللهِ – There is no might and no power except with Allaah]. When he (the Mu’adh-dhin) says: Hayya Alal Falah- Come to success], you should say: ‘[لَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللهِ -There is no might and no power except with Allaah]; and when he (the Mu’adh-dhin) says: ‘Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest’, then you should say: ‘Allah is the Greatest, Allah is the Greatest’. When he (the Mu’adh-dhin) says: ‘There is no god worthy of worship except Allah’ and he (i.e. the person) says ‘There is no god worthy of worship except Allah’ (sincerely) from his heart, he will enter Paradise'”. (d)

In this, there is virtue for the one who listens to the A’dhaan and repeat its statements as the Mu’adh-dhin utters them – saying the same as he says in all the statements, except when he says Hayya Alas Salah and Hayya Alal Falah, because one should then say: [لَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللهِ ]. That is because the statement of the Mu’adh-dhin “Hayya alas Salah” is a call for the people to come and perform the prayer and his statement “Hayyaa Alal Falah” is a call for them to come and receive its reward. So when a Muslim says: [لَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللهِ ] after hearing the Mu’adh-dhin say “Hayyaa Alas Salaah and Hayyaa Alal Falah”, he is seeking aid and assistance from Allah to enable him to (perform the prayer and receive its reward). Regarding the statement: “Sincerely from his heart”, this is proof that sincerity is a condition to be fulfilled because it is a basis for the acceptance of deeds and statements (acts of worship).

Supplication After the Mu’adh-dhin finishes The Adhaan

Imam Al Bukhari may Allah have mercy upon him, reported from Jabir Bin Abdillah, may Allah be pleased with him, that the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

Whoever after listening to the Adhaan says: [اللَّهُمَّ رَبَّ هَذِهِ الدَّعْوَةِ التَّامَّةِ، وَالصَّلَاةِ الْقَائِمَةِ، آتِ مُحَمَّداً الْوَسِيلَةَ وَالْفَضِيلَةَ، وَابْعَثْهُ مَقَاماً مَحْمُوداً الَّذِي وَعَدْتَهُ – O Allah! Lord of this perfect call (i.e. the Adhaan) and of the regular prayer which is going to be established!] Kindly give Muhammad Al-Waseelah (highest position in Paradise) and Al-Fadhilah (extra degree of honour) and raise him to Maqam Mahmud (a station of praise and glory, i.e. the honour of intercession on the Day of Resurrection) which You have promised him], then intercession for me will be permitted for him on the Day Resurrection]. (e)

An Excerpt from “Fiqh Al-Ad’iyah Wal Ad’kar 3/126- 130. By Shaikh Abdur Razzaq Al-Badr, may Allah preserve him

[a]: Sahih Al-Bukhari Book of Adhaan. Chapter: Raising the voice in pronouncing the Adhaan. Hadeeth Number 609]

[b]: Chapter: To draw lots for pronouncing the Adhaan. Hadeeth Number 615 & Sahih Muslim Number 427]

[c] Sahih al-Bukhaari Book of Adhaan. Chapter: Superiority of the Adhaan. Hadeeth Number 608]

[d] Sahih Muslim Number 385]

[e] Sahih Al-Bukhaari Book of Adhaan. Chapter: Invocation at the time of Adnaan. Hadeeth Number 614]

river beside trees and grass field

[2] The Self-Evident and Irresistible Nature of Pure Islamic Monotheism

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

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

Allah, The Most High, said:

إِنَّ ٱلَّذِى فَرَضَ عَلَيۡكَ ٱلۡقُرۡءَانَ لَرَآدُّكَ إِلَىٰ مَعَادٍ۬‌ۚ قُل رَّبِّىٓ أَعۡلَمُ مَن جَآءَ بِٱلۡهُدَىٰ وَمَنۡ هُوَ فِى ضَلَـٰلٍ۬ مُّبِينٍ۬
وَمَا كُنتَ تَرۡجُوٓاْ أَن يُلۡقَىٰٓ إِلَيۡكَ ٱلۡڪِتَـٰبُ إِلَّا رَحۡمَةً۬ مِّن رَّبِّكَ‌ۖ فَلَا تَكُونَنَّ ظَهِيرً۬ا لِّلۡكَـٰفِرِينَ
وَلَا يَصُدُّنَّكَ عَنۡ ءَايَـٰتِ ٱللَّهِ بَعۡدَ إِذۡ أُنزِلَتۡ إِلَيۡكَ‌ۖ وَٱدۡعُ إِلَىٰ رَبِّكَ‌ۖ وَلَا تَكُونَنَّ مِنَ ٱلۡمُشۡرِڪِينَ
وَلَا تَدۡعُ مَعَ ٱللَّهِ إِلَـٰهًا ءَاخَرَ‌ۘ لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ‌ۚ كُلُّ شَىۡءٍ هَالِكٌ إِلَّا وَجۡهَهُ ۥ‌ۚ لَهُ ٱلۡحُكۡمُ وَإِلَيۡهِ تُرۡجَعُونَ

Verily, He Who has given you [O Muhammad] the Qur’an will surely bring you back to the Ma’aad [place of return]. Say [O Muhammad]: “My Lord is Aware of him who brings guidance, and he who is in manifest error.” And you were not expecting that the Book [this Qur’an] would be sent down to you, but it is a mercy from your Lord. So never be a supporter of the disbelievers. And let them not turn you [O Muhammad] away from [preaching] the Aayat [revelations and verses] of Allah after they have been sent down to you, and invite [humankind] to [believe in] your Lord, and be not of Al-Mushrikoon [those who associate partners with Allah, e.g. polytheists, pagans, idolaters, those who disbelieve in the Oneness of Allah and deny the Prophethood of Messenger Muhammad]. And invoke not any other ilaah [god] along with Allah, Laa ilaaha illaa Huwa [none has the right to be worshipped but He]. Everything will perish save His Face. His is the Decision, and to Him you [all] shall be returned. [Al-Qasas. 85-88]

إِنَّ ٱلَّذِى فَرَضَ عَلَيۡكَ ٱلۡقُرۡءَانَ لَرَآدُّكَ إِلَىٰ مَعَادٍ۬‌ۚ

“Verily, He Who has given you (O Muhammad) the Qur’an will surely bring you back to the Ma’aad [place of return]”

Meaning: Allah is the one who revealed the Qur’an, ordained divine rulings in it, clarified and explained what is lawful and unlawful, commanded you [O Muhammad] to preach it to Humankind and Jinn, and that you convey all the commands and prohibitions that are obligated to those who have reached the age of accountability; therefore, it is not befitting Allah’s Wisdom that life will only be limited to the life of this world and that people will neither be rewarded with good due to their good deeds nor punished due to their evil deeds; rather the fact is that they will be returned to the Afterlife where the doers of good will be rewarded for their good deeds and the evil doers will be punished for their disobedience.

Indeed, Allah’s guidance has been established for the people and the path has been made manifestly clear, therefore if they follow you [O Muhammad], then that will be their good portion and well-being (in this life and the next); but if they reject you, disparage the guidance you have brought and give precedence to the falsehood they are upon over the truth, then there remains no room for argumentation; rather the only thing that remains is that Allah – The All-Knower of the Unseen and the Seen- will recompense those upon truth based on their good deeds, and likewise those upon falsehood based on their evil deeds.

And regarding the statement of Allah:

قُل رَّبِّىٓ أَعۡلَمُ مَن جَآءَ بِٱلۡهُدَىٰ وَمَنۡ هُوَ فِى ضَلَـٰلٍ۬ مُّبِينٍ۬

Say (O Muhammad): “My Lord is Aware of him who brings guidance, and he who is in manifest error]- Meaning: Allah has made it known that His Messenger is rightly guided and he is also an upright guide for others”. On the other hand, his enemies are misguided and misguiding others.

وَمَا كُنتَ تَرۡجُوٓاْ أَن يُلۡقَىٰٓ إِلَيۡكَ ٱلۡڪِتَـٰبُ إِلَّا رَحۡمَةً۬ مِّن رَّبِّكَ‌ۖ فَلَا تَكُونَنَّ ظَهِيرً۬ا لِّلۡكَـٰفِرِينَ

And you were not expecting that the Book (this Qur’an) would be sent down to you, but it is a mercy from your Lord. So never be a supporter of the disbelievers.

وَلَا يَصُدُّنَّكَ عَنۡ ءَايَـٰتِ ٱللَّهِ بَعۡدَ إِذۡ أُنزِلَتۡ إِلَيۡكَ‌ۖ وَٱدۡعُ إِلَىٰ رَبِّكَ‌ۖ وَلَا تَكُونَنَّ مِنَ ٱلۡمُشۡرِڪِينَ

And let them not turn you (O Muhammad) away from (preaching) the Ayat (revelations and verses) of Allah after they have been sent down to you, and invite (men) to (believe in) your Lord, and be not of Al-Mushrikun (those who associate partners with Allah, e.g. polytheists, pagans, idolaters, those who disbelieve in the Oneness of Allah and deny the Prophethood of Messenger Muhammad).

Then Allah [The Most High] said:

وَلَا تَدۡعُ مَعَ ٱللَّهِ إِلَـٰهًا ءَاخَرَ‌ۘ لَآ إِلَـٰهَ إِلَّا هُوَ‌ۚ كُلُّ شَىۡءٍ هَالِكٌ إِلَّا وَجۡهَهُ ۥ‌ۚ لَهُ ٱلۡحُكۡمُ وَإِلَيۡهِ تُرۡجَعُونَ

And invoke not any other ilah (god) along with Allah, La ilaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He). Everything will perish save His Face. His is the Decision, and to Him you (all) shall be returned.

Meaning: Direct your worship sincerely to Allah alone because none has the right to be worshipped except Him. Any other (thing taken an object of worship) does not have the right to be deified, loved and worshipped except Allah, because He alone is the Ever-living and He is Perfect [free from all imperfections, deficiencies weaknesses, faults etc]. And when it is the fact that everything will perish except Him, then it is extreme falsehood and corruption to worship those who will perish.

Indeed, what they [i.e. the polytheists] worship besides Allah is falsehood and are things that will perish, but Allah alone is the One who will never perish and there is no deity worthy of worship besides Him. He alone has absolute dominion over everything; He alone controls all the affairs of the universe, what He wills has to take place and what He does not will cannot take place [i.e. based on His perfect Wisdom and Justice]; He alone is the ruling Judge between the servants in the Hereafter and they will all return to Him to be recompensed for their deeds.

An Excerpt from Tafsir as-Sadi