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A Benefit from Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah Shared by My Salafi Brother, Confidant, and Colleague

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Featured, 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.

A Benefit from Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, Shared After Work by My Salafi Brother, Friend, Confidant, and Colleague, Ustadh Abu Tasneem Mushaf Al-Banghali, may Allah preserve him and his family Amin

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

وقد يكون الرجل من أذكياء الناس وأحدهم نظرا ويعميه عن أظهر الأشياء، وقد يكون من أبلد الناس وأضعفهم نظرا ويهديه لما اختلف فيه من الحق بإذنه، فلا حول ولا قوة إلا به

And indeed, a man may be from the intelligent people and the most acute in perception, (however) He (Allah) blinds him to most obvious (clearest) things. And he may be among the dullest and weakest in perception, (however), He (Allah) – by His permission – guides him to the truth in which (people) differ, and there is neither Hawl nor Quwwah except through Him. (1) [Refer to Footnote a]

Then furthermore- in the same section – Shaikh Al-Islam quotes one of the supplications of the night prayer as follows:

 اللّهُـمَّ رَبَّ جِـبْرائيل ، وَميكـائيل ، وَإِسْـرافيل، فاطِـرَ السَّمواتِ وَالأَرْض ، عالـِمَ الغَيْـبِ وَالشَّهـادَةِ أَنْـتَ تَحْـكمُ بَيْـنَ عِبـادِكَ فيـما كانوا فيهِ يَخْتَلِفـون. اهدِنـي لِمـا اخْتُـلِفَ فيـهِ مِنَ الْحَـقِّ بِإِذْنِك ، إِنَّـكَ تَهْـدي مَنْ تَشـاءُ إِلى صِراطٍ مُسْتَقـيم

O Allah! Lord of Jibraa’eel, Meekaa’eel, and Israafeel, Creator of the heavens and the Earth, The Knower of the seen and the unseen. You judge between Your slaves regarding which they differ. Guide me to the truth regarding that in which there is differing, by Your Will. Verily, You guide whomever you will to the straight path. [Sahih Muslim 770][Refer to Footnote b]

_____________

Footnote a: Abu Musa Al-Ash’aree, may Allah be pleased with him, said: The Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said to me, “O Abdullah Bin Qais! Shall I tell you a word which is one of the treasures of Paradise? It is

لَا حَوْلَ وَلَا قُوَّةَ إِلَّا بِاللهِ

“There is neither might nor power (to alternate from one state to another nor move from one thing to another) except by Allaah’s Will” . [Al-Bukhari 6384 & Muslim 2704]

“One of the treasures of paradise”. Meaning, its reward is great and that is paradise; and Paradise is the greatest thing sought after. This shows the virtue of the statement Laa “Hawla Walaa Quwwata illaa Billah”. why does it carry this reward? This is because it necessitates surrendering all of one’s affairs to Allah, manifesting one’s inability and poverty in the presence of Allah, and that indeed Allah is The One Perfect in Strength and The One Fully Able to do all things. It is a great statement, easy to utter and repeat on the tongue. (1)

Shaikh Al-Islam Al-Harawee, may Allaah have mercy upon him, said that Abu Haytham, may Allah have mercy upon him, said, “Al-Hawl [i.e. might] is Al-Haraka [movement], meaning, there is no movement nor ability except by the Will of Allah”. And it is said, “There is no might to repel evil nor any power to reach good except by the Will of Allaah”. (2)

Footnote b: 

 اللّهُـمَّ رَبَّ جِـبْرائيل ، وَميكـائيل ، وَإِسْـرافيل، فاطِـرَ السَّمواتِ وَالأَرْض ، عالـِمَ الغَيْـبِ وَالشَّهـادَةِ أَنْـتَ تَحْـكمُ بَيْـنَ عِبـادِكَ فيـما كانوا فيهِ يَخْتَلِفـون. اهدِنـي لِمـا اخْتُـلِفَ فيـهِ مِنَ الْحَـقِّ بِإِذْنِك ، إِنَّـكَ تَهْـدي مَنْ تَشـاءُ إِلى صِراطٍ مُسْتَقـيم

O Allah! Lord of Jibraa’eel, Meekaa’eel, and Israafeel, Creator of the heavens and the Earth, The Knower of the seen and the unseen. You judge between Your slaves regarding which they differ. Guide me to the truth regarding that in which there is differing, by Your Will. Verily, You guide whomever you will to the straight path. [Sahih Muslim 770]

The scholars say that these creations [i.e. Jibraa’eel, Meekaa’eel, Israafeel, the heavens, and the earth] have been specifically mentioned, even though Allah is the Creator of all the creation, just as has been established in the Qur’an and authentic Sunnah with regards to the specific mention of every created thing that has a great and mighty status as one of Allah’s creation, such as the statement, “Lord of the Heavens and the Earth”, “Lord of the Supreme Throne”, “Lord of the Angels and Jibreel”, “The Lord of the two Easts (places of sunrise during early summer and early winter) and the Lord of the two Wests (places of sunset during early summer and early winter)”, “The Lord of Humankind”, “The King of Humankind”, “The Only True God of Humankind”, “The Lord of all Created Things”, “The Lord of the Prophets”, “The Creator of the Heavens and the Earth”, “The Originator of the Heavens and the Earth” etc.  All these things and what is similar to them show Allah’s Greatness, All-encompassing Power, and absolute Sovereignty. (4)

In this supplication, one employs the means of seeking Allah’s (love, aid, pleasure, assistance, etc) through belief and affirmation that He is the Lord – in general and specific – of these three Angels, who have been given a means of giving life. Jibra’eel is given the responsibility to convey the revelation (to the Prophets) by way of which the hearts and souls are given that type of life that necessitates the presence of sound belief in the heart that leads to all righteous deeds. Meekaa’eel is given the responsibility to bring the rain by way of which the earth, the vegetation, and animals are given life, and Israafeel is given the responsibility to blow the trumpet by way of which the creation is resurrected after their death.

Also employing the means of seeking Allah’s (love, aid, assistance, pleasure, etc) through belief and affirmation that Allah alone is the Originator of the heavens and earth, meaning, He is their Creator and the one who brought them into existence prior to their non-existence, and that He is the knower of the unseen and the seen- meaning, the hidden and apparent, and because He alone is the One Who judges between the servants in that which they differ, so that He guides you to the truth in that which they differ. As for guidance, it is knowledge of the truth together with having the intent to follow the truth and preferring it over other things. The guided person acts upon the truth and desires it, and it is the Greatest blessing of Allah bestowed on the servants. We ask Allah to guide us all to the straight path and grant us every good. (5) [End of quotes]

NB: Some ask, “Why do you mention the name of the one who shared the Faa’idah with you?!”

The answer:

“We live in an era in which some seek to rewrite history, portray themselves as ones who have achieved everything by themselves and begin to patronise -either through actions or words- those who benefitted them in the past. This despicable behaviour is a disease we fear for ourselves in this era in which access to knowledge is easy but behaviour has deteriorated. Even if a child or the most ignorant person benefits us with a Faa’idah, we’ll attribute it to them insha’Allah. We ask Allah:

اللهمَّ كما حسَّنتَ خَلقي فحسِّنْ خُلُقي

(1) Dar Ta’aarud Al-Aql Wan Naql 9/34. Paraphrased

(2) An Excerpt from Tasheel Al il’haami Bi-Fiqh Al-Ahadith Min Bulugh Al-Maram 6/335 by Mufti, Al-Allamah Salih al-Fawzan, may Allah preserve him.

(3) Sharh Saheeh Muslim 4/87

(4) Sharh Saheeh Muslim 5/50

(5) An Excerpt from Fiqh Al-Ad’iyah Wal Ad’kaar 3/139-140 by Shaikh Abdur Razzaq Al-Badr, may Allah preserve him.

photo of island and thunder

The danger of selective punishment

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Featured, 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.

Aa’isha, may Allah be pleased with her, reported that the Quraish had been anxious about the Makhzumi woman who had committed theft, and said, “Who will speak to Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, about her?” They said, “Who dare it, but Usamah, the loved one of Allah’s Messenger?” So Usamah spoke to him. Thereupon Allah’s Messenger said, “Do you intercede regarding one of the punishments prescribed by Allah?” He then stood up and addressed (people) saying, “O people! Those who have gone before you were destroyed, because if any one of high status committed theft amongst them, they spared him; and if anyone of low status committed theft, they inflicted the prescribed punishment upon him. By Allah, if Fatima, daughter of Muhammad, were to steal, I would have her hand cut of”. [1]

“Do you intercede regarding one of the punishments prescribed by Allah?” Meaning, it is not permissible to intercede regarding the divine prescribed punishments.

“Those who have gone before you were destroyed because if any one of high status committed theft amongst them, they spared him; and if anyone of low status committed theft, they inflicted the prescribed punishment upon him”.

Meaning, destroyed through punishment due to their sins. They were destroyed due to this matter because they said, “This is a person of high status and it is not possible to cut his hand”. When a person of high status amongst them stole, they let him off, (but) when a person of low status stole, they established the punishment on him, thus the implementation of Allah’s prescribed punishments was carried out based on their desires. In this hadith is proof to show that the nations before us committed theft, and that there was much theft in their midst including the wealthy, the poor, the one of high status and the one of low status.

The Messenger then made an oath – even though he is the righteous and truthful one without making an oath – that “By Allah, if Fatima, daughter of Muhammad, were to steal, I would have her hand cut of”.

O Allah! Send Your Salutations and blessings upon him (i.e. the prophet). This is how justice should be and the manner in which Allah’s rulings are to be applied, and not through desires. He made an oath that if Fatimah – who was of a higher status than that Makhzumi woman, both in nobility and lineage, because she is the leader of the women of paradise, the daughter of Muhammad – stole, he would cut her hand. [2]

Imaam An-Nawawi, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated that Imam Muslim, may Allah have mercy upon him, mentioned narrations in the chapter regarding the forbiddance of interceding in the divine ordained punishments and that this was the cause of the destruction of the Children of Israel. The scholars unanimously agreed that – due to these narrations – interceding in the divine ordained punishments – after the affair has reached the leader – is prohibited. As for before it reaches the leader, most scholars have permitted intercession if the one being interceded for is not an evil person and harmful to the people. As for the sins (or acts of disobedience) for which there are no prescribed punishments, then intercession regarding them is permissible whether the affair has reached the leader or not. Intercession in these affairs is desirable if the one being interceded for is not a harmful person and so on. [3]

[1] Saheeh Muslim. 1688a

[2] An Excerpt from Sharh Riyaadus Saaliheen 6/525-530 By Imam Muhammad Ibn Saalih Al-Uthaymeen (may Allah have mercy upon him)

[3] An Excerpt from ‘Sharh Saheeh Muslim’. 11/155

Ramadan: Responsibility, Moderation, and Generosity; Recitation and Good Companionship, Preservation of The Sunnah

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Basics, Charity (Sadaqah), Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Fasting, Featured, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Prophets, Purification of The Soul, Qur'aan, Ramadhan, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Responsibility, Moderation, and Generosity

Allah, The Most High, said:

وَآتِ ذَا الْقُرْبَىٰ حَقَّهُ وَالْمِسْكِينَ وَابْنَ السَّبِيلِ وَلَا تُبَذِّرْ تَبْذِيرًا
إِنَّ الْمُبَذِّرِينَ كَانُوا إِخْوَانَ الشَّيَاطِينِ ۖ وَكَانَ الشَّيْطَانُ لِرَبِّهِ كَفُورًا

And give to the kindred his due, and to the Miskin (poor) and to the wayfarer. But spend not wastefully (your wealth) in the manner of a spendthrift. Verily, spendthrifts are brothers of the Shayaateen (devils), and the Shaytan (Devil – Satan) is ever ungrateful to his Lord. [Al-Israa. 26–27]

Imam As-Sa’di, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

Shaytan does not call a person except to every blameworthy habit. Thus, he calls him to miserliness and to refrain from spending. But when the person refuses to obey him, he calls him to overspending and extravagance. However, Allah calls to the most just and balanced of affairs, and He praises the person for that, as He, The One free from all imperfections, stated about His faithful slaves:

وَالَّذِينَ إِذَا أَنْفَقُوا لَمْ يُسْرِفُوا وَلَمْ يَقْتُرُوا وَكَانَ بَيْنَ ذَٰلِكَ قَوَامًا

And those who, when they spend, are neither extravagant nor miserly, but hold a medium (way) between those (extremes). [Al-Furqan. 67] [1]

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

“The limits of generosity are between two extremes, and when one goes beyond its limits, it leads to extravagance and squandering. When a person is lacking in generosity, it leads to miserliness and tight-fistedness”. [2]

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

“Those squanderers who waste meat and food and dispose of it in waste bins should be reminded that there are hungry people hoping for a mouthful and a scrap of bread. They should fear Allah and fear Him in their gatherings, and ensure that they do not become the cause of Allah’s blessings being stopped.” [3]

 

Generosity, Recitation of The Qur’an, and Good Companionship

Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him and his father, narrated:

“The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, was the most generous amongst the people, and he used to be more so in the month of Ramadan when Jibreel visited him. Jibreel used to meet him on every night of Ramadan till the end of the month. The Prophet used to recite the Noble Qur’an to Jibreel, and when Jibreel met him, he used to be more generous than the fair wind [sent by Allah with glad tidings (rain) in readiness and haste to do charitable deeds].” [Al-Bukhari 1902]

Zain Ibn Al-Munir, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“The intent behind the likeness (or comparison) between the Prophet’s, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, generosity and the fair wind is that the wind is one of mercy which Allah, The Most High, sends, and sends down rain that falls everywhere—both on dead land as well as land that is not dead. The Prophet’s good conduct and benevolence benefit everyone—the poor, the wealthy, and the one who has enough—more than the rain that falls (after the arrival of that) fair wind.” [4]

Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz, may Allah have mercy upon him, said:

“He, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, was the most generous amongst the people with regard to wealth and bestowing (things) to the people, and not that he was generous only after being asked. In the final year (of his life), Jibreel met him twice, and he finished the recitation of the (Qur’an) twice. From the benefits of (this hadith) are: It is more virtuous to study and recite the Qur’an at night with the righteous people, the scholars, and the good people. The Prophet recited to receive that which Allah has of reward. Generosity in times (when people are in need) and in Ramadan is something sought after.” [5]

 

Preservation of The Sunnah and Not Opposing It

Abu Dharr, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “My Ummah will continue in goodness so long as they hasten to break their fast and delay the pre-fasting meal.” [Sahih Al-Jami 7224]

Abu Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “The religion will not cease to prevail as long as people hasten to break the fast, because the Jews and the Christians (i.e., those amongst them who deviated from the path of their Prophets) delay it.” [6]

Sahl Ibn Sa’d, may Allah be pleased with him, said that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “The people will not cease to be upon good as long as they hasten to break the fast.” [7]

Shaikh Al-Islam Ibn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: “This is a text regarding the triumph of the religion, attained through hastening to break the fast, and it is for the purpose of opposing the (misguidance of the) Jews and Christians. When opposing them is a reason behind the triumph of the religion, then the purpose of sending the Messengers is so that the religion ordained by Allah prevails over all others. Therefore, being in opposition to (the deviated people) is one of the greatest objectives behind the advent of the Messengers.” [8]

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

“In this is an urge to hasten (to break the fast) after the setting of the sun is ascertained. This means that the Ummah will not cease being consistent and will remain upon good if they preserve this Prophetic tradition. If they delay breaking the fast, this is a sign of corruption. [9]

They will not cease to be upon good if they do this by acting upon the Sunnah and limiting themselves to its prescribed legislated boundaries, and not being over-stringent (through what their) intellects (suggest to them) and changing its principles. The people of the scripture [i.e., those amongst them who deviated] delayed breaking the fast until the stars appeared. [10]

[1] An Excerpt from Tafseer as-Sadi

[2] Al-Fawaa’id page 207- 209

[3] An Excerpt from Al-Bayan Li-Akhta Ba’d Al-Kuttab 2/27

[4] An Excerpt from Fath Al-Bari Sharh Sahih Al-Bukhari. 4/150. Hadith 1902. Publisher- Dar As-Salam 1421 (Year 2000). 1st Edition)

[5] An Excerpt from Al-Hulal Al-Ibreeziyyah Min at-Taliqaat Al-Baaziyyah Alaa Sahih Al-Bukhari. 2/121. Footnotes numbers: 1, 2 &3]

[6] Sahin Abee Dawud 2353. Maktabah Al-Ma’arif. 1st Edition

[7] Iqtidaa As-Siraat Al-Mustaqeem 1/209

[8] Saheeh Muslim 1098

[9] Sharh Saheeh Muslim. 7/180-181. Publisher: Dar Al-Kutub Al-Ilmiyyah. 1st Edition 1421AH (2000)

[10] Fath Al-Bari Sharh Sahih Al-Bukhari 4/253. Publisher: Dar As-Salam. 1st Edition 1421AH (2000)

The truth remains the truth even if the one who utters it is lowly (insignificant)

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

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

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

And know that from the Sunnah’s vast (sciences and sources of knowledge), all of it is embodied within a single verse, namely (Allah’s) statement:

 وَمَآ ءَاتَىٰكُمُ ٱلرَّسُولُ فَخُذُوهُ وَمَا نَهَىٰكُمْ عَنْهُ فَٱنتَهُوا۟

And whatever the Messenger gives you, take it; and whatever he forbids you from, abstain from it. [Al-Hashr: 7]

Among the most important objectives in this regard is this blessed book which is an explanation of it. And know that among the most important objectives behind its authorship are two matters:

One of them is the explanation of the Qur’an by the Qur’an due to the consensus of the scholars that the noblest and loftiest types of Tafseer is the explanation of Allah’s Book by Allah’s Book (i.e. explanation of a verse of the Qur’an by another verse of the Qur’an), since no one is more knowledgeable about the meaning of Allah’s speech than Allah (Himself). And indeed, we have committed ourselves not to explain the Qur’an except through the seven types of Qur’an recitation, regardless of whether there is another type of recitation in the clear verse itself, or another verse other than it. We do not rely on explanation based on the “Shadh recitations” (a), though we may mention a “Shadh recitation” as supporting evidence to clarify the seven types of recitations. The recitations of Abu Jafar, Yaqub, and Khalaf are not considered Shadh in our view nor by the Muhaqqiqeen (b) among the people who possess knowledge of the (different) types of recitations.

With regards to the second objective, the Imam stated that he will clarify the Fiqh rulings from the verses, their evidences from the Sunnah, and the statements of the scholars therein. Then he stated: We will establish as stronger proof that which appears to us to be the stronger proof based on the evidence, without partisanship toward any particular school of jurisprudence or (based) on the statement of any specific person (scholar). Indeed, we will examine the statement itself and not the one who made it, for every person’s statement may be accepted or rejected, except the speech of the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. And it is well known that the truth (remains) truth even if the one who utters it is lowly (insignificant etc). Have you not seen that despite the fact that the Queen of Sabah and her people were prostrating to the sun instead of prostrating to Allah, however, when she uttered a statement of truth, Allah affirmed that she has spoken the truth. Her disbelief did not prevent it from being affirmed for her as the truth, which is her statement, as Allah stated that she said:

إِنَّ ٱلْمُلُوكَ إِذَا دَخَلُوا۟ قَرْيَةً أَفْسَدُوهَا وَجَعَلُوٓا۟ أَعِزَّةَ أَهْلِهَآ أَذِلَّةً

Verily! Kings, when they enter a town (country), they despoil it, and make the most honourable amongst its people low.

Then Allah stated in confirmation of the truth of the truth she stated, saying:

وَكَذَٰلِكَ يَفْعَلُونَ

And thus they do. [1]

Footnote a: Ibn al-Jazari, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated regarding the determinant of an authentic (valid) Qur’anic recitation: Every recitation that conforms to Arabic grammar, even in one possible aspect; conforms to one of the Uthmani manuscripts, and has an authentic chain of transmission, is considered one of the authentic recitations. It is not permissible to reject nor lawfully deny it, rather, its is one of the seven aḥruf in which the Qur’an was revealed. It is incumbent upon the people to accept it, whether it is transmitted from the seven Imams, the ten, or from other than them among the Imams who are recognised. When one of these three pillars is absent, the recitation is described as weak, shādh, or false, whether it is reported from the Seven or from someone greater than them. This is the correct position according to the Imams – among the pious predecessors and thiose who came after them- who are recognised as the ones with the precise knowledge and expertise in this field. [2]

Footnote b: The Muhaqqiqeen are those scholars who are firmly grounded in knowledge and blessed with the ability to precisely and thoroughly investigate issues to reach the correct position.

Your feedback is welcomed if you have any suggestions to improve this paraphrase. May Allah bless you all.

[1] An Excerpt from Adwa al-Bayan 1/6-7. paraphrased
[2]An-Nashr 1/9

Recognising The Greater Good in One’s Wife and Understanding Her Feelings

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Contemporary Issues, Featured, Marriage (Nikkah), Methodology - 'Manhaj', Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Qur'aan, Scholars of Islam, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Allah, The Most High, said:

فَإِن كَرِهۡتُمُوهُنَّ فَعَسَىٰٓ أَن تَكۡرَهُواْ شَيۡـًٔ۬ا وَيَجۡعَلَ ٱللَّهُ فِيهِ خَيۡرً۬ا ڪَثِيرً۬ا

If you dislike them (i.e. your wives due to something you see in them), it may be that you dislike a thing and Allah brings through it a great deal of good. [An-Nisaa 19]

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

A person (man) may dislike a woman due to a trait of hers, while there is a great deal of goodness in keeping her and he does not know it. He may love a woman due to a trait of her traits, while in keeping her there is much evil and he does not know it. The human being is as he has been described by his Creator: “Verily, he (man) was unjust (to himself) and ignorant (of its results).” [Al-Ahzab 72]

Therefore, it is not befitting that he places his inclination, love, aversion, and hatred as a measure for that which harms or benefits him. Rather, the measure is that which Allah has selected for him of commandments and prohibitions. The most beneficial things for him — without exception — are obedience to his Lord outwardly and inwardly, and the most harmful — without exception — is disobedience to his Lord outwardly and inwardly. If he embarks upon sincere obedience and servitude to Him, all that he encounters from that which he hates is better for him. And if he withdraws from obedience and servitude to Allah, all that is in what he loves is bad for him.

Therefore, whoever has sound knowledge regarding his Lord and an understanding of His Names and Attributes knows with certainty that there are great benefits and useful things in those hated things that afflict him and trials that befall him, which he cannot enumerate through his knowledge and contemplation. Rather, the great benefits for a slave (of Allah) are greater in that which he hates than in what he loves. In general, the beneficial things for the souls are found in what they hate, just as the harmful things for the souls and the causes for their destruction are in what they love. [1]

The Importance of Knowing One’s Wife

Aa’isha narrated that Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said to her: “I know when you are pleased with me or angry with me”. I said, “When do you know that?” He said, “When you are pleased with me, you say, ‘No, by the Lord of Muhammad’, but when you are angry with me, then you say, ‘No, by the Lord of Ibrahim’. Thereupon I said, ‘Yes, (certainly, you are right); but by Allah, O Allah’s Messenger, I do not leave anything else besides your name'”.

Benefits From This Hadeeth:

A man’s thorough observation regarding the state of a woman due to her action, speech, inclination or lack of inclination towards him based on indications, because the Prophet firmly determined Aa’iSha’s happiness or anger merely when she mentioned or refrain from mentioning his name; therefore, he judged the two situations based on the mention or the absence of a mention of his name as an indication of happiness or anger. It can also be definitely the case that there is something more explicit regarding this affair, but he did not say it.

And regarding the statement of Aa’Isha’s “Yes (certainly, you are right); but by Allah, O Allah’s Messenger, I do not leave anything else besides your name”. At-Teebee said, “This is a very subtle way of making an exception, because she related that when she is in a state of anger – a state in which a sane person loses his senses by choice, her affirmed love for the Messenger does not change.

Ibn Al-Muneer said, “What Aa’isha intended is that she left out the wording of the Prophet’s name but her heart’s pure love and affection towards the noble person of the Prophet does not leave her”.

And with regards to the choice Aa’Isha, may Allah be pleased with her, made to use Ibrahim’s, peace be upon him, name instead of the other Prophet’s, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, this is proof regarding her intelligence, because the Prophet is the one with the best claim to Ibrahim just as Allah stated in the Qur’an. Therefore, when she had no other way of leaving a noble name, she replaced it with the name of someone who is from the one whose name she left out, so that her heart does not exit the boundaries of that attachment.  [2]

[1] An Excerpt from “Al-Fawaa’d pages 145-148. slightly paraphrased

[2] An Excerpt from Fath Al-Bari Sharh Sahih Al-Bukhari Hadeeth 5228. Vol 9. pages 404- 405. Darus Salam Print.

tree between green land during golden hour

Verse 216 Surah Al-Baqarah

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

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

Allah, The Most High, says:

وَعَسَىٰٓ أَن تَكۡرَهُواْ شَيۡـًٔ۬ا وَهُوَ خَيۡرٌ۬ لَّڪُمۡ‌ۖ وَعَسَىٰٓ أَن تُحِبُّواْ شَيۡـًٔ۬ا وَهُوَ شَرٌّ۬ لَّكُمۡ‌ۗ وَٱللَّهُ يَعۡلَمُ وَأَنتُمۡ لَا تَعۡلَمُونَ

And it may be that you dislike a thing which is good for you and that you like a thing which is bad for you. Allah knows but you do not know.” [AI-Baqarah. Verse 216]

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

There is for the servant -in this verse – a number of insightful guidelines, underlying benefits and welfare. (This is) because indeed if he knows that Al-Makruh (what is hated) can bring forth Al-Mahbub (i.e. what is beloved), and vice versa, then neither would he feel safe from the harm that might occur from something that makes him happy nor would he lose hope whilst expecting a final source of happiness from a situation of harm. This is because he does not have (infinite or perfect) knowledge of the Awaqib (i.e. the final outcomes), but Allah knows that which he does not know.

There is nothing more beneficial for him than fulfilling Allah’s commands, even if it is difficult for him in the beginning and his soul dislikes it, because all its end result will be good – a means to happiness, pleasure and joy. Similarly, there is nothing more harmful for him than doing what he has been forbidden, even if his soul desires and inclines towards it because all its end result will lead to pain, grief, evil and calamities. A distinguishing characteristic of (sound) intellect is that it prefers to bear little pain whose end results will lead to great enjoyment and abundant good, and it avoids that little enjoyment whose end results will lead to great pain and prolonged evil. The observations of an ignorant person does not permit him to (pay attention to the true or real) goals behind events that occur from the very beginning of an affair, but as for the sensible person, he always looks at the (true or real) goals behind those events. He looks at the praiseworthy and unpraiseworthy goals that are not obvious (to the ignorant one). He sees what is forbidden as tasty food that is mixed with deadly poison, therefore, whenever he is urged towards eating that food due to its tastiness, he is turned away due to the poison in it. As for the commandments, he sees them as bitter medication that will lead to physical well-being and cure; therefore, whenever he is turned away from the medication due to its bitterness, he is then urged towards it due to its benefits.

However, this requires the blessing of knowledge by way of which a person can perceive the (praiseworthy and unpraiseworthy goals) behind those events that occur from the very beginning of an affair, as well as firm patience that would enable him to bear the difficulties upon the path towards achieving the expected goals. If he does not have certainty and patience, it would be difficult for him to achieve that; but if he has firm certainty and patience, he would be facilitated with ease whilst bearing every difficulty in his pursuit of everlasting good and enjoyment.

The servant should hand over his affair to the One (Allah) who knows – (perfectly without anything hidden from Him)- the end result of affairs. He should be pleased with what Allah chooses and decrees for him because of the good end result he hopes for.

Neither should he make suggestions to his Lord nor put forward his choice over that of his Lord, nor does he ask for something about which he has no knowledge because it may be that what will bring about harm and destruction on him is found in what he asks, whilst he does not know. Therefore, he does not choose anything over what his Lord chooses; rather he asks his Lord to choose the best for him and make him pleased with what has been chosen for him, because there is nothing more beneficial for him than this.

When he hands over his affair to his Lord and is pleased with what has been chosen for him, his Lord facilitates him with strength, determination and patience in that which has been chosen for him; repel the afflictions he would have encountered due to the choice he makes and show him some of the good end results of the choice his Lord made for him, which could not have been attained through the choice he makes for himself.

He is relieved of the difficult reasoning about all types of choices and his heart is emptied of projections through which he ascends one obstacle and descends into another. And alongside this, he cannot escape what is decreed for him. If he is pleased with Allaah’s choice, then what has been decreed will come to him, whilst he is deserving of commendation and graceful in it; otherwise, what has been decreed will come to him while he is blameworthy and ungraceful, because he is left with the choice he made for himself. (1)

If Allah wants good and guidance for His servant, He makes him witness the fact that the blessing he has is one of His blessings and enables him to be grateful for it. If his soul whispers to him to move away from it, he seeks guidance from His Lord – by way of Istikhara (a) – as one who is ignorant of his welfare and unable to attain it, and then delegates the affair to Allah by asking Him to make a good choice for him. (2)

[a]: Al-Istikhara: Jaabir Bin Abdillah, may Allah be pleased with him and his father] said, ”Allah’s Messenger [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him] used to teach us the way of doing Istikhara (i.e. the means to ask Allah to guide one to the right action concerning any job or a deed) in all matters as he taught us the Suras of the Qur’an. He said, ‘If anyone of you wants to do any task [i.e. wants to decide on a matter], he should offer a two rak’ats other than the compulsory ones and say (after the prayer):

اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسْتَخِيرُكَ بِعِلْمِكَ وَأَسْتَقْدِرُكَ بِقُدْرَتِكَ وَأَسْأَلُكَ مِنْ فَضْلِكَ الْعَظِيمِ فَإِنَّكَ تَقْدِرُ وَلَا أَقْدِرُ وَتَعْلَمُ وَلَا أَعْلَمُ وَأَنْتَ عَلَّامُ الْغُيُوبِ اللَّهُمَّ إِنْ كُنْتَ تَعْلَمُ أَنَّ هَذَا الْأَمْرَ خَيْرٌ لِي فِي دِينِي وَمَعَاشِي وَعَاقِبَةِ أَمْرِي فَاقْدُرْهُ لِي وَيَسِّرْهُ لِي ثُمَّ بَارِكْ لِي فِيهِ وَإِنْ كُنْتَ تَعْلَمُ أَنَّ هَذَا الْأَمْرَ شَرٌّ لِي فِي دِينِي وَمَعَاشِي وَعَاقِبَةِ أَمْرِي فَاصْرِفْهُ عَنِّي وَاصْرِفْنِي عَنْهُ وَاقْدُرْ لِي الْخَيْرَ حَيْثُ كَانَ ثُمَّ أَرْضِنِي

O Allah! I seek counsel through Your Knowledge, and I seek Power from Your Might, and I ask for Your great blessings. You are capable and I am not. You know and I do not and You (alone) know the unseen. O Allah! If You know that this task (or affair) is good for my religion and my subsistence and in my Hereafter- (or said, ‘If it is better for my present and later needs), then You ordain it for me and make it easy for me to get, and then bless me in it. And if You know that this task (affair) is harmful to me in my religion and subsistence and in the Hereafter-(or said, ‘If it is worse for my present and later needs’), then keep it away from me and let me be away from it. And ordain for me whatever is good for me, and make me satisfied with it’. The Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, added that then the person should mention his need [i.e. the affair or task]. [Bukhaari: 1162]

After Istikhara, one also seeks the advice of upright people who are capable of giving advice in the affair. Al-Hasan al-Basri, may Allah have mercy upon him] said, “By Allah! Never have people sought advice except that they were guided to the best of what was available to them”. Then he recited (the Ayah) “And (the Believers) who (conduct) their affairs by mutual consultation”. [Ash-Shura. 38]

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

Allāh, The Mighty and Majestic, commanded His Messenger Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him,  to consult his companions in some affairs: “And consult them in the affairs. Then when you have made a decision, put your trust in Allāh”. [Aal Imran. 159]

He [i.e. the Prophet] is the example to be followed by the Ummah, therefore when it is the case that Allah commanded him to consult his companions, then there is even a greater reason that the Muslims are in need of consultation amongst themselves. When a difficulty that is related to a Muslim’s religious and worldly affairs occurs, then indeed it is fitting that he consults someone whom he considers reliable, wise, truthful and sincere. He examines [the advice] given by that person, then he makes a choice – either to take that advice or decides not to take it based on what he is satisfied with, in relation to his personal affairs. The hadeeth places emphasis on the fact that consultation guides to the best outcomes, and due to this it is said, “The one who consults (others) does not regret (thereafter InShaaAllah) and the one who performs Istikhara will not fail (to achieve what is good for him or her)”. Both Istikhaara and consultation are legislated and a lot of good is achieved by way of them, as opposed to when affairs are pursued in a rigid and haphazard manner, for indeed this might lead to regret and harm. [3]

Abu Hurairah, may Allāh be pleased with him, said that the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allāh be upon him, said: “The consultee is in a position of trust”. [Sahih  Sunan Abi Dawud. 5128]

The consultee is in a position of trust]. He is the one whose opinion is sought after regarding an affair of Maslahah (i.e. an affair that will bring about benefit and repel harm). He is in a position of trust with regards to what he is asked and it is not permissible for him to deceive the one who consults him, by concealing the affair that would bring about benefit. [4]

This hadith is evidence, showing that the consultee has to (advise) with the course of action and opinion -in relation to the consultation – that which he would do for himself. And it is not permissible that he directs his Muslim brother to something he would not be pleased with for himself. [5]

We ask Allah:

اللَّهُمَّ أَصْلِحْ لِي دِينِي الَّذِي هُوَ عِصْمَةُ أَمْرِي

وَأَصْلِحْ لِي دُنْيَايَ الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَاشِي

وَأَصْلِحْ لِي آخِرَتِي الَّتِي فِيهَا مَعَادِي

وَاجْعَلِ الْحَيَاةَ زِيَادَةً لِي فِي كُلِّ خَيْرٍ

وَاجْعَلِ الْمَوْتَ رَاحَةً لِي مِنْ كُلِّ شَرٍّ

O Allah! Rectify my religion for me, which is the safeguard of my affairs; rectify my worldly [affairs], wherein is my livelihood; and rectify my Afterlife to which is my return; and make life for me [as a means of] increase in every good and make death for me as a rest from every evil. [Saheeh Muslim Number: 2720] [6]

[1] An Excerpt from ‘Al-Fawa’id’ pages 203-204

[2] Al-Fawa’id 259

[3] An Excerpt from ‘Awnul Ahadis Samad Sharh Al-Adab Al-Mufrad’ 1/285

[4] Mirqaat Al-Mafaateeh Sharh Mishkaat Al-Masaabeeh. 4/259. Hadith 5062

[5] Awn Al-Ahad As-Samadi, Sharhu Al-Adab Al-Mufrad. 1/283. Hadith Number 256

[6] https://salafidawahmanchester.com/2020/12/29/o-allaah-rectify-my-religion-for-me-which-the-safeguard-of-my-affairs-a-tremendous-supplication/

An Advice of Imam Abdul Aziz bin Baz to the Entire Ummah on the Approach of Ramadan

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Basics, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Featured, 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.

My advice to all Muslims is to fear Allah, the Exalted, and to welcome their blessed month with sincere repentance, pursue understanding in their religion and learn the rulings of fasting and their prayers. This is because the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him stated, “Whomever Allah wishes good for, He grants them understanding in religion.”

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

“When Ramadan arrives, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained”.

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

On the first night of Ramadan, the gates of Paradise are opened, the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained. A caller says: “O seeker of good, come forth; and O seeker of evil, refrain.” And Allah has those whom He frees from the Fire, and this occurs every night.

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

“Whoever fasts during Ramadan with Iman and seeking reward will have their previous (minor) sins forgiven. Whoever engage in prayer during Ramadan with Iman and seeking reward will have their previous (minor) sins forgiven. Whoever stands in prayer on the Night of Decree (Laylatul Qadr) with Iman and seeking reward will have their previous (minor) sins forgiven”.

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

“Every deed of the child of Adam is for them, with a good deed rewarded tenfold up to seven hundred times, except for fasting, which is for Me, and I will reward it. The person abandons their desires, food, and drink for My sake. The fasting person experiences two joys: one at the time of breaking the fast and another when meeting their Lord. The scent of a fasting person’s mouth is more pleasant to Allah than the scent of musk.”

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

“If someone insults you or wants to fight you, respond by saying, “I am a person who is fasting.”

He, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

“Whoever does not refrain from false speech and acting upon it, and ignorant behaviour, Allah has no need for him to abandon his food and drink.”

The advice for all Muslims is that they fear Allah, safeguard their fasts, and protect it from all types of sin. It is legislated for them to strive for goodness and to compete in acts of obedience, such as giving charity, increase in Qur’an recitation, the utterance of Subhaanallaah, Laa Ilaha illal lah, Allahu Akbar, and seeking forgiveness, as this is the month of the Quran.

Allah said:

شَهْرُ رَمَضَانَ الَّذِيَ أُنزِلَ فِيهِ الْقُرْآنُ

The month of Ramadan (is the month in which) the Qur’an was revealed. [Al-Baqarah 185]

It is legislated for the believers to diligently engage in the recitation of the Quran. It is recommended for both men and women to increase their reading of the Quran both day and night. Each letter recited earns a reward, with each good deed multiplied tenfold, as reported from the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him. Also, being cautious of sins and acts of disobedience, while enjoining truth on one another, offering mutual advice, enjoining what is good and forbidding evil.

It is a great month during which good deeds are multiplied, but also sins are considered greater within it than other months. It is obligated to a believer to strive diligently to fulfil what Allah has commanded and be cautious of what Allah has prohibited. One’s focus during Ramadan should increase and become greater, as well as the fact that it is legislated for the believer to engage earnestly in good deeds, such of charity, visiting the sick, attending funerals, maintaining family ties, and increasing the recitation of the Quran, remembrance of Allah, the utterance of Subhaanallaah, Laa Ilaha illal lah, seeking forgiveness, making du’a and other good actions, while hoping for Allah’s reward and fearing His punishment.

We ask Allah to grant success to Muslims in all that pleases Him. We ask Allah to enable us and all Muslims to observe fasting and engage in prayer with Iman and hoping for reward. We ask Allah to grant us, and all Muslims everywhere, understanding of the religion and to adhere to it steadfastly, as well as safeguarded from the causes of His anger and punishment.

I ask Him to grant success to all leaders of the Muslims and all Muslim rulers, guide them, improve their circumstances, and enable them to judge by Allah’s Sharia in all their affairs, in their worship, actions, and all matters concerning them. We ask Allah to grant them this success, in accordance with His statement:

وَأَنِ احْكُم بَيْنَهُم بِمَآ أَنزَلَ اللّهُ

And judge between them by what Allah has revealed. [Al-Ma’idah 49]

Allah said:
فَلاَ وَرَبِّكَ لاَ يُؤْمِنُونَ حَتَّىَ يُحَكِّمُوكَ فِيمَا شَجَرَ بَيْنَهُمْ ثُمَّ لاَ يَجِدُواْ فِي أَنفُسِهِمْ حَرَجًا مِّمَّا قَضَيْتَ وَيُسَلِّمُواْ تَسْلِيمًا

But no, by your Lord, they can have no Faith, until they make you (O Muhammad) judge in all disputes between them, and find in themselves no resistance against your decisions, and accept (them) with full submission. [An-Nisa 65]

Allah said:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ أَطِيعُواْ اللّهَ وَأَطِيعُواْ الرَّسُولَ وَأُوْلِي الأَمْرِ مِنكُمْ فَإِن تَنَازَعْتُمْ فِي شَيْءٍ فَرُدُّوهُ إِلَى اللّهِ وَالرَّسُولِ إِن كُنتُمْ تُؤْمِنُونَ بِاللّهِ وَالْيَوْمِ الآخِرِ ذَلِكَ خَيْرٌ وَأَحْسَنُ تَأْوِيلًا

O you who have believed, obey Allāh and obey the Messenger and those in authority over you. And if you disagree among yourselves over anything then refer it back to Allāh and the Messenger if you truly believe in Allāh and the Last Day. That is better (conduct) and (leads to) the most excellent outcome. [An-Nisa 59]

Allah said:

قُلْ أَطِيعُوا اللَّهَ وَأَطِيعُوا الرَّسُولَ

Say: “Obey Allah, and obey the Messenger”. [An-Nur 54]

Allah said:

وَمَا آتَاكُمُ الرَّسُولُ فَخُذُوهُ وَمَا نَهَاكُمْ عَنْهُ فَانتَهُوا

Whatever the Messenger gives you, take it; and whatever he prohibits you, keep away from it. [Al-Hashr 7]

This is what is obligated to all Muslims and their leaders. It is obligated to the leaders of the Muslims, their scholars, and the general populace, to fear Allah, adhere obediently to Allah’s Shariah, and judge by Allah’s Shariah among themselves. This is because the Shariah is the thing through which upright rectification, guidance, and a praiseworthy outcome (will be attained), as well as Allah’s Pleasure; through it is attained the truth that Allah has ordained and caution against injustice. [Footnote a]

We ask Allah to grant success, guidance, upright intention and action to everyone. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, as well as his family and companions. [Majmu Fatawa 15/50]

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Footnote a:

Imam Al-Barbahaaree on the Manhaj of Dealing With the Rulers

https://www.salafipublications.com/sps/sp.cfm?subsecID=MNJ16&articleID=MNJ160002&pfriend=

The Obligation of Hearing and Obeying the Muslim Rulers

[Lesson 44] – Chapter: The Obligation of Hearing and Obeying the Muslim Rulers. – The ‘Aqīdah of Imām Muhammad ibn ‘Abdil-Wahhāb – By Abu Khadeejah – Masjid Bin Bāz – London.

Closing the Door of Rebellion Against the Ruler

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

A Treatise on Ruling by Other than What Allaah has Revealed – By Shaikh `Abdus-Salam al-Burjis – may Allah have mercy upon him

https://www.salafipublications.com/sps/sp.cfm?subsecID=MNJ05&articleID=MNJ050003&articlePages=6

“Let the Sunnah Guide These Interactions” – Reminder from a friend this morning

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Brotherhood, Contemporary Issues, Da'wah - Calling To Islam, Featured, Innovations In Islam (Bidah), Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Purification of The Soul, Scholars of Islam, Shirk, Sin, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Interactions

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

The first group is those whose companionship is akin to nourishment, essential for both morning and evening. One leaves it once their needs are fulfilled, and returns to it when in need. These people are those who know Allah, His commandments, the plots employed by His enemies, the diseases of the hearts, and the remedies to heal them. They are sincere to Allah, His Messenger, and His creation, and their company brings forth comprehensive benefits.

The second group is those whose companionship can be compared to vital medication needed during periods of illness. Thus, you do not need to intermingle with them as long as you are healthy. These are people one cannot do without when it comes to beneficial aspects of life, such as sustaining a livelihood, fulfilling various dealings, engaging in partnerships, seeking consultation, receiving medical aid, and so forth.

The third group is those whose companionship resembles various diseases, each with its level of severity and mildness. Within this group, there is one whose companionship is akin to a chronic illness. This particular person does not bring any benefit to your religious or worldly matters, and in fact, associating with them may result in a loss in either or both aspects of your life. Therefore, if you engage with this person, it would be like a disease that could ultimately lead to your demise. Among them, there is one whose companionship is comparable to a toothache whose pain intensifies, but abates once the toothache disappears.

The fourth group is those whose companionship is utterly destructive, and associating with them is akin to consuming poison. Common indeed is this among the people! May Allah not increase their numbers, and they are the advocates of misguidance and innovation in religious matters. They obstruct others from following the path of the Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, and instead call to that which is in opposition to it. They divert people from the path of Allah and strive to distort it, presenting innovation in religious matters as if they were part of the Sunnah, and misrepresenting virtues as vices and vices as virtues. Whenever you establish pure Islamic monotheism among them, they say, “You have degraded the Awliyaa [friends of Allah]”. [Footnote a]

And when you adhere strictly to the path of the Messenger, they say, “You have invalidated the adherence to the path of the Imams”. [Footnote b] Furthermore, when you enjoin what Allah and His Messenger have commanded and forbid what they have forbidden, they say, “You are subjecting people to trials”. [Footnote c] [1]

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Footnote a:

Al-Allamah Muqbil Bin Hadi Al-Wadi’i, may Allah have mercy upon him,stated:

Allah said:

وَعَجِبُوٓاْ أَن جَآءَهُم مُّنذِرٌ۬ مِّنۡہُمۡ‌ۖ وَقَالَ ٱلۡكَـٰفِرُونَ هَـٰذَا سَـٰحِرٌ۬ كَذَّابٌ
أَجَعَلَ ٱلۡأَلِهَةَ إِلَـٰهً۬ا وَٲحِدًا‌ۖ إِنَّ هَـٰذَا لَشَىۡءٌ عُجَابٌ۬
وَٱنطَلَقَ ٱلۡمَلَأُ مِنۡہُمۡ أَنِ ٱمۡشُواْ وَٱصۡبِرُواْ عَلَىٰٓ ءَالِهَتِكُمۡ‌ۖ إِنَّ هَـٰذَا لَشَىۡءٌ۬ يُرَادُ
مَا سَمِعۡنَا بِہَـٰذَا فِى ٱلۡمِلَّةِ ٱلۡأَخِرَةِ إِنۡ هَـٰذَآ إِلَّا ٱخۡتِلَـٰقٌ
أَءُنزِلَ عَلَيۡهِ ٱلذِّكۡرُ مِنۢ بَيۡنِنَا‌ۚ بَلۡ هُمۡ فِى شَكٍّ۬ مِّن ذِكۡرِى‌ۖ بَل لَّمَّا يَذُوقُواْ عَذَابِ

And they wonder that a warner (Prophet Muhammad) has come to them from among themselves! And the disbelievers say, “This (Prophet Muhammad) is a sorcerer, a liar. Has he made the aaliha (gods) (all) into One Ilaah (God – Allah). Verily, this is a curious thing!” And the leaders among them went about (saying), “Go on and remain constant to your aaliha (gods)! Verily, this is a thing designed (against you)! We have not heard (the like) of this among the people of these later days. This is nothing but an invention! Has the Reminder been sent down to him (alone) from among us?” Nay! But they are in doubt about My Reminder (this Qur’an)! Nay, but they have not tasted (My) Torment! [Surah Sa’d. 4-8]

So, you say to the Raafidah, “Indeed, it is shirk to invoke other than Allah with regards to seeking benefit and protection from harm in a matter which none can (fulfil) besides Allah. It is not permissible to invoke Ali Ibn Abee Taalib [may Allah be pleased with him] or other than him amongst the dead [may Allah have mercy upon them] because Allah said:

وَٱلَّذِينَ تَدۡعُونَ مِن دُونِهِۦ مَا يَمۡلِكُونَ مِن قِطۡمِيرٍ
إِن تَدۡعُوهُمۡ لَا يَسۡمَعُواْ دُعَآءَكُمۡ وَلَوۡ سَمِعُواْ مَا ٱسۡتَجَابُواْ لَكُمۡۖ وَيَوۡمَ ٱلۡقِيَـٰمَةِ يَكۡفُرُونَ بِشِرۡڪِكُمۡۚ وَلَا يُنَبِّئُكَ مِثۡلُ خَبِيرٍ۬

And those, whom you invoke or call upon instead of Him, own not even a Qitmeer (the thin membrane over the date stone). If you invoke (or call upon) them, they hear not your call, and if (in case) they were to hear, they could not grant it (your request) to you. And on the Day of Resurrection, they will disown your worshipping them. And none can inform you (O Muhammad) like Him Who is the All-Knower (of each and everything). O mankind! it is you who stand in need of Allah, but Allah is Rich (Free of all wants and needs), Worthy of all praise. [Surah Fatir. 13-14]

And Allah said:
وَمَنۡ أَضَلُّ مِمَّن يَدۡعُواْ مِن دُونِ ٱللَّهِ مَن لَّا يَسۡتَجِيبُ لَهُ ۥۤ إِلَىٰ يَوۡمِ ٱلۡقِيَـٰمَةِ وَهُمۡ عَن دُعَآٮِٕهِمۡ غَـٰفِلُونَ
وَإِذَا حُشِرَ ٱلنَّاسُ كَانُواْ لَهُمۡ أَعۡدَآءً۬ وَكَانُواْ بِعِبَادَتِہِمۡ كَـٰفِرِينَ

And who is more astray than one who calls (invokes) besides Allah, such as will not answer him till the Day of Resurrection, and who are (even) unaware of their calls (invocations) to them? And when mankind are gathered (on the Day of Resurrection), they (false deities) will become enemies for them and will deny their worshipping.’ [Surah Al-Ahqaf. 5-6]

And Allah said:

وَمَن يَدۡعُ مَعَ ٱللَّهِ إِلَـٰهًا ءَاخَرَ لَا بُرۡهَـٰنَ لَهُ ۥ بِهِۦ فَإِنَّمَا حِسَابُهُ ۥ عِندَ رَبِّهِۦۤ‌ۚ إِنَّهُ ۥ لَا يُفۡلِحُ ٱلۡكَـٰفِرُونَ

And whoever invokes (or worships), besides Allah, any other ilaah (god), of whom he has no proof, then his reckoning is only with his Lord. Surely! Al-Kaafiroon (the disbelievers in Allah and in the Oneness of Allah, polytheists, pagans, idolaters, etc.) will not be successful.’ [Surah Al-Muminoon. 117]

And if you say, “Indeed others have joined them (i.e. the Mushrikoon) in this (affair”, so I say, “Whoever joins them in this (affair of shirk) is similar to them”. Read

https://www.manhaj.com/manhaj/articles/xyjjc-takfir-and-the-excuse-of-ignorance-shaykh-saalih-al-fawzaan-5—on-those-who-worship-the-righteous.cfm

Allah said

وَلَا تَدۡعُ مِن دُونِ ٱللَّهِ مَا لَا يَنفَعُكَ وَلَا يَضُرُّكَ‌ۖ فَإِن فَعَلۡتَ فَإِنَّكَ إِذً۬ا مِّنَ ٱلظَّـٰلِمِينَ
وَإِن يَمۡسَسۡكَ ٱللَّهُ بِضُرٍّ۬ فَلَا ڪَاشِفَ لَهُ ۥۤ إِلَّا هُوَ‌ۖ وَإِن يُرِدۡكَ بِخَيۡرٍ۬ فَلَا رَآدَّ لِفَضۡلِهِۦ‌ۚ يُصِيبُ بِهِۦ مَن يَشَآءُ مِنۡ عِبَادِهِۦ‌ۚ وَهُوَ ٱلۡغَفُورُ ٱلرَّحِيمُ

And invoke not besides Allah, any that will neither profit you, nor hurt you, but if (in case) you did so, you shall certainly be one of the Zaalimoon (polytheists and wrongdoers). And if Allah touches you with hurt, there is none who can remove it but He; and if He intends any good for you, there is none who can repel His Favour which He causes it to reach whomsoever of His slaves He will. And He is the Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful.’ [Surah Yunus. 106-107]

When you convey these verses and what is similar to them to the (Rawaafid), and then say to them, “Indeed, is it permissible to call upon the dead and seek deliverance and rescue from them?” They (say), “You are a Wahhaabi. You hate the family of the Prophet [peace and blessings of Allah be upon him]”. This is the same regarding the extreme Soofees when you say, “Indeed, the Awliyaa can neither benefit nor harm”, they say, “You hate the Awliyaa”. Indeed, mighty is the statement that comes out of the mouths of these two sects; they utter nothing but a lie! [2]

Footnote b:

“Why do the Salafīs say that it’s impermissible to blindly follow the Great Imāms such as Abu Hanīfah, Mālik, Ash-Shāfi’ī and Ahmad Ibn Hanbal, yet they blindly follow the scholars such as Ibn Bāz, Ibn Uthaymīn, Al-Albānī, etc?” Question 4 in the Manhaj.

Cling To The Sunnah And Avoid Taqleed – Tele-link with Abu Khadeejah ‘Abdul-Wāhid

Footnote c:https://abukhadeejah.com/the-great-virtue-and-principles-of-enjoining-the-good-and-forbidding-evil-by-imam-al-barbahari-d-329h-and-al-fawzan/#:~:text=’%20Rather%20you%20should%20enjoin%20the,just%20go%20along%20with%20them.

[1]An Excerpt from “Bada’i at-Tafsir Al-Jami Limaa Fassarahu Al-Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim 3/467-469

[2]An Excerpt from “Ilhaad Al-Khomeini Fee Ard Haramayn”. Pages 206-207

Verse 73 Surah Al-Furqan

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

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

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, 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. [2]

We ask Allah to include us among the truthful Amin. Allāh’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said:

The best of the people are those living in my generation, then those who will follow the latter and then those who come after them. Then there will come after them people who will be treacherous and will not be trustworthy, they will bear witness without being asked to do so, [a] and they will vow, but will never fulfil their vows, and fatness will appear among them. [b]

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

They give false testimony, act treacherously and deceitfully. They behave in a very sinful manner and follow evil desires, except those whom Allah safeguards amongst the Taa’ifatul Mansoorah [i.e. the victorious (aided) group of Muslims upon the straight path] – those whom Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, praised. Therefore, it is obligated to us to acquire knowledge for the sake of Allah, The Mighty and Majestic, and act upon it. Ignorance is a deadly disease and knowledge is a weapon that will destroy you if you do not act upon it, and Allah’s refuge is sought. [An Excerpt from “Marhaban Yaa Taalibal Ilm” pages 268-270] [end of quote]

——————————————-

[a]: Regarding the statement, “They will bear witness without being asked to do so”. This can mean that they bear witness before being asked, or they bear witness based on falsehood, or they give witness without being from those who are worthy of it. [Sharh Saheeh Muslim 12/17]

However, there is another Hadith in which the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, stated: “Should I not inform you about the best of witnesses, they are those who bear witness before being asked”. The scholars say that what is intended by this hadith is that for example someone has a witness to give on behalf of another person based on truth, but the person does not know about it, so he informs the person about it; or for example, a person has already passed away and another person knows what the deceased person has left behind as inheritance, so he bears witness to that and makes it known. [Fat-hul Baari 5/260] [end of quote]

[b] And regarding the statement, “And fatness will appear among them”. Meaning: These people give importance to the means of fattening themselves – food, drink and over-abundance. So, their only concern is their bodies and fattening themselves. As for being fat without choice, then one cannot be blamed for that, just as a person cannot be blamed for being tall, short, black or white…[Majmu Al-Fataawaa 10/1056 -By Imam Muhammad Ibn Salih Al-Uthaymeen, may Allah have mercy upon him]

We ask Allah, the Most High, as Ibn Shaheen stated that among the supplications of those who came before (i.e. the pious predecessors) was that they said:

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. [3]

 

[1] 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.

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

[3] Sharh Madhahib Ahl As-Sunnah 40

One of the means of protecting Tawhid

Written by Abdullah Jallow on . Posted in Aqeedah, Aqeedah (Creed & Belief), Contemporary Issues, Featured, Fitnah, History of Islam, Methodology - 'Manhaj', Monotheism - Tawheed, Morals and Manners - 'Akhlaaq', Pearls of Wisdom, Prophets, Purification of The Soul, Sahaabah, Salaf As Saalih (Pious Predecessors), Scholars of Islam, Shi'a, Shirk, Sin, Sufis, The Salaf - Pious Predecessors, Worship - 'Ibaadah'.

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

Aa’ishah, may Allah be pleased with her, said: Allah’s Messenger, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, said: “May Allah curse the Jews and Christians [i.e. those amongst them who corrupted the religion of their prophets], because they took the graves of their Prophets as places of worship”. Then Aa’ishah said, “Had that not been the case, his grave would be in an open place, but he feared that it would be taken as a place of worship”. [Al-Bukhari 1330]

Imam Muhammad Naasiruddeen Al-Albani, may Allah have mercy upon him said: 

The statement of Aa’Ishah clearly shows why the Prophet was buried in his house and that was to prevent the one who would build a Masjid over him. And it is not permissible to use this as evidence to bury others in a house and what supports this is that it is in opposition to the initial Islamic practice, because the Sunnah (legislates) that the deceased are buried in the graveyards. This is why Ibn Urwah, may Allah have mercy upon him, stated in Al-Kawakib Ad-Daraaree that to be buried in the graveyards of the Muslims was more pleasing to Abu Abdillah (Imam Ahmad) than being buried in the houses, because it poses lesser harm to those who are alive [i.e. a safeguard against grave worship].

And if it is said, “The Prophet’s grave is in his house as well as the graves of his two companions (i.e. Abu Bakr and Umar)”, so we say, “Aa’ishah said that the Prophet asked to be buried in his house so that his grave is not taken as a place of worship, because he used to bury his companions at Al-Baqee (i.e. the graveyard) and his practice is more worthy to be followed than that of others. His companions knew that he- in particular – was to be buried in his house, because he said: “The Prophets are to be buried where they die”. This protects [the place they are buried from too much noise] and distinguishes them from other people”. [1]  

The late Mufti of Saudi Arabia Imam Abdul Azeez Bin Baaz, may Allah have mercy upon him, said: Shrines are graves and the Prophetic tradition regarding this matter is that graves are to be raised a hand span from the ground, so that they are recognised as graves and not degraded. This is why in the hadith of Sa’d Bin Abee Waqqaas it is reported that the grave of the Prophet raised a hand span and Sa’d also gave orders that the same should be done to his grave. As for building over them, taking them as Masajid and building domes, this is not permissible. According to the people of knowledge, this is evil, an innovation in religion and one of the means to Shirk. And due to this the Prophet stated in an authentic hadith:

“The curse of Allah is upon the Jews and Christians [i.e. those Jews who deviated from the pure message of Musa and those Christians who deviated from the pure message of the Messiah], because they took the graves of their Prophets as places of worship”

And in a hadith in Saheeh Muslim, the Prophet, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him, forbade from plastering graves, used as sitting places and building over them. Therefore, it is not permissible to build over graves – neither mosques nor domes, nor other than them, and also they are not to be plastered, because indeed this is one of the means to Shirk – one of the means, because it may be exalted, invoked besides Allah and help sought from it, thus shirk occurs. Building over graves- placing domes, mosques and lamps over them are from the means to Shirk, and this is why the Prophet warned against it and cursed those who do so. It is incumbent that Muslims are warned against this and that they do not build over a grave – neither a Masjid nor other than it, neither a dome nor plastered, nor place lamps on them nor shrouded. All this is not permissible, rather it is from the means to Shirk…. [2]

Who Included The Grave of The Prophet In The Masjid?

 Shaikh Abdul Waahid Abu Khadeejah, may Allah preserve him, stated as follows: The grave of the Prophet (salallāhu ‘alaihi wasallam) was initially outside of his Mosque in Madeenah – the fact is that his house was next door to the Mosque and that is where he was buried after his death. Later, in the time of the rule of Waleed Ibn Abdul-Malik he commanded that the Mosque be expanded, and thus the house of the Prophet (salallāhu ‘alaihi wasallam) was included into the Mosque as it was extended. This occurred at the displeasure of the Scholars – and they hated it – from them, Sa’eed Ibn Al-Musayyib (died 94H). [3]

[1] An Excerpt from Tahdheer As-Saajid Min Itti-khadh Al-Qubur Masajid. pages 14-15

[2] https://binbaz.org.sa/fatwas/16337/%D8%AD%D9%83%D9%85-%D8%A8%D9%86%D8%A7%D8%A1-%D8%A7%D9%84%D8%A7%D8%B6%D8%B1%D8%AD%D8%A9-%D8%B9%D9%84%D9%89-%D8%A7%D9%84%D9%82%D8%A8%D9%88%D8%B1. paraphrased

[3] https://www.abukhadeejah.com/decisive-proofs-against-the-sufis-who-take-graves-as-places-of-worship-the-condemnation-of-the-one-who-worships-allah-at-the-grave-of-a-righteous-man-so-how-much-worse-is-the-one-who-actually-worsh/ ]