BismilLahhirRahmannirRaheem
Among many blessings Mankind has been endowed with, Intelligence and Wisdom play a key role in man’s conquest of the universe. It is due to this attribute that Allah (SWT) has given man His vicegerency on earth. Islam has underscored its importance, and on many occasions the holy Qur’an has invited Muslims to think, meditate and reflect on Allah’s signs within and without. Deliberations and meditation help man to discover the hidden realities and truths in Allah’s ever expanding universe. Islamic philosophers and scholars of jurisprudence say that Shari’ah is based on 5 fundamentals: 1. Safeguarding the Faith. 2. Life. 3. Progeny or offspring. 4. Wealth, and finally 5. Safeguarding the intellect. To expand mental and intellectual horizon and safeguarding it from any negative influence or damage is one of the fundamental requirements of Islam.
Intoxication is one of those things that Islam has strongly condemned. The holy Qur’an doesn’t only regard it Haraam, but considers it dirty, filthy and lewd. Intoxication ruins man’s character and moral, which is the very essence Allah’s best creation. Man’s inner and spiritual impurity is far worse than his external impurity, because it leads him to all that is heinous and criminal. Prophet (SAW) has clearly condemned every intoxicant as Haraam as per tradition number 5585 of Sahih Bukhari, related by Hazrat Jaabir bin Abdullah. According to Hadith number 1865 of Tirmizi, Prophet (SAW) said that even the small quantity of that thing is Haraam, great quantity of which causes intoxication. This is important to note that addiction to intoxication initially starts with a small dose and than it gradually increases and takes over control of the person. At times such an addiction is not satisfied even with an injection. It is a slow poison, which ruins health, and gradually causes death. Life is a trust for one’s own self, the family, the community and society at large. Use of drugs or alcohol or any intoxicant is a clear betrayal of that trust. Prophet (SAW) has strongly prohibited the use of those things, which are bad for health as per Hadith number 3686 of Abu Dawood, related by Hazrat Umm-e-Salma (RA).
Intoxicants don’t lead only to moral bankrupt ion, but also causes financial bankruptcy. Wines and drugs are usually expensive and force the addict to use them at the expense of family needs. Consequently many families have been victimized by the bad habit of one family member. It is one of the main causes of divorces and family break ups.
Man is a social animal by nature, and he has to shoulder social responsibilities. He is under obligation to perform some duties as others have some rights on him as a father, son, husband, or a brother. Livelihood, education, and upbringing of children, shelter, and food for the family, upkeep of pleasant conjugal relations with wife and provision of food and all necessities of life are forgotten under the influence of liquor and drugs. That is why Prophet (SAW) has called wine/liquor as Ummul Khaba’is – mother of all evils, meaning the root cause of vice (recorded by Nisa’ee in Hadith number 566), and Ummul Fawaahish, the root of all immodesty (recorded in Ibn-e-Maja, Hadith number 3372).
Prophet (SAW) said that liquor branches out itself like branches of a tree and outgrows itself. He mentioned that once a pretty woman kept wine, a boy, and persuaded a man to commit at lest one sin out of three. That is, drink liquor, kill the boy, or commit sin with her. The man drank liquor believing that it seemed the least, but he committed all the three sins after having lost senses under the influence of liquor.
In most western countries drinking is common. People drink to kill boredom, to forget stress and to over come strain caused by the hectic mechanical life, a life that is barren due to lack of spirituality. It perhaps gives them a momentary relief. Students drink it for fun or fashion without realizing the far-reaching effects on their personal and family life. That is one of the reasons that we are finding cracks in the family structure. Separation and divorce rate is up and on the increase. People try to find solace in intoxication and lose the solace for good. Drinking and drug addiction is bad for the body, the spirit and the pocket. It is a suicide in installments. There is a need for creating awareness for all the people without any distinction of cast, creed or color. Whatever the name it may carry, intoxication is bad and is sin. Prophet (SAW) once said as quoted by Nisa’ee in Hadith number 5658 that people in his Ummah will drink wine but give it a different name. May Allah save our youth, our families and our society from drugs, liquor and intoxicants. Aameen!
Friday, June 27, 2003
Friday, June 13, 2003
Children
BismilLahhirRahmannirRaheem
Children are the great gift and blessings from Allah (SWT). They are like buds and flowers in our society. They are the cool of the eyes and source of pride and comfort. The wish to have children is a part of human nature. From an ordinary person to the people of great stature, all long for parenting a child. The Holy Qur’an mentions that great prophets like Hazrat Ibraheem (AS) and Hazrat Zakariya (AS) prayed Allah (SWT) for a child as mentioned in Surah As-Saaffaat (Aayah 100) Hazrat Ibraheem prayed (“O Lord, grant me a righteous son.” Hazrat Zakariya (AS) as mentioned in Surah Maryam prayed “…Grant me a successor as a favor from you.” Allah (SWT) accepted their prayers and granted them what they asked for. This is a strange phenomenon of nature that the man who is Allah’s Khalifah in this world is born as weak and feeble needing support and care on every step till he or she blooms into adulthood. To fulfill this condition, Allah (SWT) has ingrained a deep love and affection in mankind’s nature for their off springs. This is a subtle indication that Allah (SWT) wants us to pay due attention to children’s physical, intellectual, mental and emotional growth and development. That is why Islam has given great importance to this aspect of our social responsibility.
The Holy Qur’an in Surah At-Tahreem (Aayah 6) says, “O you who believe, save yourselves and your families from the Fire whose fuel is men and rocks…” The Aayah emphasizes the importance of children’s education and training. Our beloved Prophet (SAW) said that to educate and train your child in manners and etiquettes is better than sacrificing an animal in Sadaqah. Children are like saplings, soft and easy to mould and shape as needed, when these saplings turn into plants and trees, they become stiff and strong and hard to mend and bend. Early childhood education makes the future personality. Family atmosphere and careful attention, or lack of it results in a successful or a failed person.
The concern that one should have for the religious and spiritual condition of a child is highlighted in the simple question, which Hazrat Yaqoob (AS) asked his sons returning from Egypt about Hazrat Yusuf (AS). It was evident that Hazrat Yusuf (AS) was well and alive by the Grace of Allah. But due to the 40 years separation from his darling son, Hazrat Yaqoob had lost his eyesight. Hazrat Yusuf (AS) had given his shirt to his brothers and asked them to place that on the eyes of his blind father. As predicted by Hazrat Yusuf (AS), Allah (SWT) restored the eyesight of Hazrat Yaqoob (AS). The first thing the father asked after regaining his eyesight was “Tell me how is Yusuf?” They all said that Yusuf was doing great and Allah had raised him to the status of the king of Egypt. Hazrat Yaqoob (AS) responded: “I am not asking you if he is a beggar or a king, my question how his religion is and how is doing spiritually?” When Hazrat Yaqoob (AS) was told about his son’s piety, sincerity of faith and belief, only then Hazrat Yaqoob was satisfied.
People of Prophetic temperament without doubt have the same passions of love towards their children, but they care more not for the physical comfort, but the spiritual and religious well-being and progress. Aayahs 132-133 of Surah Al-Baqarah attest to this truth:
“And Ibraheem left his legacy to his sons, and to Yaqoob, and said: “O my sons, Allah has chosen this as the faith for you. Do not die but as those who have submitted to Allah. Were you present at the hours of Yaqoob’s death? What will you worship after me? He asked his sons, and they answered: We shall worship you and Allah and the Rub of your fathers, of Ibraheem and Ishmael and Ishaque, the one and only Allah and to him we submit.”
Muslims in general are not practicing Deen and away from religion because parents themselves are not well versed in religion. The only concern is that children should be educated and trained to be successful in the worldly life. Attention is paid only to their careers and jobs. Though the greatest asset and the everlasting good is pure Eemaan and good virtuous deeds and actions. That is why Prophet (SAW) said that no parent could give a better gift to his or her children than good education and training.
This is a fact that school students look forward to Summer vacation. They all need and want a break from the hectic school life for the sake of some comfort and contentment. They achieve it or not, that is a different question. There is a sure prescription for the achievement of heart felt contentment and the success of both the words, and the prescription is to utilize this vacation by keeping away from aimless and useless preoccupations. This period should be invested in constructive and reformative activities. Time’s best utilization is to spend it in activities, which are beneficial for all aspects of life, for the spiritual and religious achievements.
One Arab poet has said: That child is not an orphan, who has lost his father, but the one who has been deprived from knowledge, manners and etiquettes.” How true the poet has said. The child, who has a father, is still like an orphan who hasn’t been given the right type of education. This is the basic and prime responsibility of parents to give their children fundamental and basic Islamic education from the early stage of their life. If everyone pays due attention to this sacred duty and responsibility, the quality of Muslims will certainly change and the image of Muslims worldwide will also change. Recall that period when Muslim Ummah excelled in the arts and sciences, they dominated the world, they were the trendsetters, and their words and actions decided the currents of history. Please pay due attention to the Islamic education of your children to restore what has been lost by the Muslim Ummah. Jazak Allah Khair.
Children are the great gift and blessings from Allah (SWT). They are like buds and flowers in our society. They are the cool of the eyes and source of pride and comfort. The wish to have children is a part of human nature. From an ordinary person to the people of great stature, all long for parenting a child. The Holy Qur’an mentions that great prophets like Hazrat Ibraheem (AS) and Hazrat Zakariya (AS) prayed Allah (SWT) for a child as mentioned in Surah As-Saaffaat (Aayah 100) Hazrat Ibraheem prayed (“O Lord, grant me a righteous son.” Hazrat Zakariya (AS) as mentioned in Surah Maryam prayed “…Grant me a successor as a favor from you.” Allah (SWT) accepted their prayers and granted them what they asked for. This is a strange phenomenon of nature that the man who is Allah’s Khalifah in this world is born as weak and feeble needing support and care on every step till he or she blooms into adulthood. To fulfill this condition, Allah (SWT) has ingrained a deep love and affection in mankind’s nature for their off springs. This is a subtle indication that Allah (SWT) wants us to pay due attention to children’s physical, intellectual, mental and emotional growth and development. That is why Islam has given great importance to this aspect of our social responsibility.
The Holy Qur’an in Surah At-Tahreem (Aayah 6) says, “O you who believe, save yourselves and your families from the Fire whose fuel is men and rocks…” The Aayah emphasizes the importance of children’s education and training. Our beloved Prophet (SAW) said that to educate and train your child in manners and etiquettes is better than sacrificing an animal in Sadaqah. Children are like saplings, soft and easy to mould and shape as needed, when these saplings turn into plants and trees, they become stiff and strong and hard to mend and bend. Early childhood education makes the future personality. Family atmosphere and careful attention, or lack of it results in a successful or a failed person.
The concern that one should have for the religious and spiritual condition of a child is highlighted in the simple question, which Hazrat Yaqoob (AS) asked his sons returning from Egypt about Hazrat Yusuf (AS). It was evident that Hazrat Yusuf (AS) was well and alive by the Grace of Allah. But due to the 40 years separation from his darling son, Hazrat Yaqoob had lost his eyesight. Hazrat Yusuf (AS) had given his shirt to his brothers and asked them to place that on the eyes of his blind father. As predicted by Hazrat Yusuf (AS), Allah (SWT) restored the eyesight of Hazrat Yaqoob (AS). The first thing the father asked after regaining his eyesight was “Tell me how is Yusuf?” They all said that Yusuf was doing great and Allah had raised him to the status of the king of Egypt. Hazrat Yaqoob (AS) responded: “I am not asking you if he is a beggar or a king, my question how his religion is and how is doing spiritually?” When Hazrat Yaqoob (AS) was told about his son’s piety, sincerity of faith and belief, only then Hazrat Yaqoob was satisfied.
People of Prophetic temperament without doubt have the same passions of love towards their children, but they care more not for the physical comfort, but the spiritual and religious well-being and progress. Aayahs 132-133 of Surah Al-Baqarah attest to this truth:
“And Ibraheem left his legacy to his sons, and to Yaqoob, and said: “O my sons, Allah has chosen this as the faith for you. Do not die but as those who have submitted to Allah. Were you present at the hours of Yaqoob’s death? What will you worship after me? He asked his sons, and they answered: We shall worship you and Allah and the Rub of your fathers, of Ibraheem and Ishmael and Ishaque, the one and only Allah and to him we submit.”
Muslims in general are not practicing Deen and away from religion because parents themselves are not well versed in religion. The only concern is that children should be educated and trained to be successful in the worldly life. Attention is paid only to their careers and jobs. Though the greatest asset and the everlasting good is pure Eemaan and good virtuous deeds and actions. That is why Prophet (SAW) said that no parent could give a better gift to his or her children than good education and training.
This is a fact that school students look forward to Summer vacation. They all need and want a break from the hectic school life for the sake of some comfort and contentment. They achieve it or not, that is a different question. There is a sure prescription for the achievement of heart felt contentment and the success of both the words, and the prescription is to utilize this vacation by keeping away from aimless and useless preoccupations. This period should be invested in constructive and reformative activities. Time’s best utilization is to spend it in activities, which are beneficial for all aspects of life, for the spiritual and religious achievements.
One Arab poet has said: That child is not an orphan, who has lost his father, but the one who has been deprived from knowledge, manners and etiquettes.” How true the poet has said. The child, who has a father, is still like an orphan who hasn’t been given the right type of education. This is the basic and prime responsibility of parents to give their children fundamental and basic Islamic education from the early stage of their life. If everyone pays due attention to this sacred duty and responsibility, the quality of Muslims will certainly change and the image of Muslims worldwide will also change. Recall that period when Muslim Ummah excelled in the arts and sciences, they dominated the world, they were the trendsetters, and their words and actions decided the currents of history. Please pay due attention to the Islamic education of your children to restore what has been lost by the Muslim Ummah. Jazak Allah Khair.
Friday, May 30, 2003
untitled
BismilLahhirRahmannirRaheem
Allah (SWT)’s guidance from day one came to mankind through His different messengers. From Hazrat Adam (AS) to Hazrat Eesa (AS) everyone’s mission was either limited to a given region, to a given people, or it was meant for a given period of time. That is the reason that no single scripture is available in its original and pure form. Also, no complete record of any prophet or messenger is available. Whatever is available about prophets is neither complete nor authentic, or accurately documented.
This is not a coincidence, but it is Allah’s plan and will to keep only that Book intact, inalterable and safe until eternity, which is total and complete in all respects. In Prophet (SAW)’s person is completed the chain of all prophets. His life with all its minute details and dimensions is safe like the meanings and the words of the Holy Qur’an. Even those hidden aspects of Prophet’s life, which may elude the attention of an average biographer, has not escaped the attention of the scrutinizing pen of meticulously critical zealous historians. Every single word that was ever uttered by Prophet (SAW), his communication, his letters, his smile, his body language, expressions of his face, his emotions of pleasure and pain, his styles, even how much gray hair he had as he grew in age, has been recorded by those exemplary companions who loved him over, above and beyond every thing. In fact his companions can be compared to a video or move camera, which didn’t let any single moment pass without having recorded and saved it for all times to come. These companions became the moving images of leading light throughout the world. There has never been and will never be a person of such a towering importance and magnitude whose life was or will be recorded minute by minute and second by second.
This extraordinary and special arrangement attests that the message of Prophet (SAW) is total, complete and perfect. And the message very rightly attests to this claim in Surah Al-Maa’idah. Allah (SWT) says “ This moment I have perfected your religion for you and completed My favor unto you and have chosen for you as Al-Islam your religion.”
The perfection of this comprehensive message encircles all possible aspects of human life. Prophet (SAW)’s multidimensional personality gives guidance in beliefs, worship, inter-personal relations, social etiquettes, ethics, morals, politics, state-craft, foreign relations, good governance, public administration, law and jurisprudence, just a few to mention.
Prophet (SAW) had himself advised his companions to copy and report to others without hesitation all words and actions of his personal, private and social life. Prophet (SAW) led a life not only among those who loved him, but also among his bitter foes. Even his worst enemies did not and could not raise a finger on his up-righteousness, honesty, integrity, magnanimity, generosity and nobility.
Ibn-e-Hishaam in his monumental works tells us that once the kingpins of Quraish were talking about Prophet (SAW). Nazar bin Harith, who was known for his knowledge, wisdom and experience told the assembly of elders, chiefs and leaders that you all know Muhammad (SAW) from his early childhood; he is one of the most trustworthy, honest, and noble person. Now, when there is silver in his hair, you call him a magician, a soothsayer, a poet, or possessed by an evil spirit. I swear by God, I have heard him speak, and he is none of what you think of him.
Islam invites people from all walks of life, from all stratum of society, from all possible diverse backgrounds to follow the perfect and ideal model of Prophet (SAW)’s life. No aspect or dimension of human life is beyond the scope of Prophet (SAW)’s teachings and guidance. Once a Jew sarcastically and tauntingly told a Sahaabi, that your Prophet even teaches the most ordinary and trivial things. The Sahaabi giving him a befitting rebuttal said that yes, our Prophet (SAW) teaches us even the etiquettes of using the bathroom. Since perfection and permanence go hand in hand, Prophet (SAW)’s message is perfect, and absolutely eternal.
Prophet (SAW) first cleared the fog of ‘Shirk” and connected mankind with one and the only Creator. Surah Al-Ikhlaas succinctly mentions “Tawheed” in just a few sentences:
“Say: He is Allah the One and Only; Allah is self-sufficient. He begets not, nor is He begotten; And there is none comparable to Him.” This Surah tells that the relationship between the Creator and the created is permanent and eternal. Prophet (SAW) has given a distinct honor to man that he can’t bow to any one but Allah and no one can look after him and his needs but Allah. Surah Al-Jinn says: “All places of worship are for Allah; so do not invoke any one with Allah.”
Prophet (SAW) destroyed the concept of religious bureaucracy, liberated man from man’s slavery and wiped out the role of the intermediary between Allah and His bondsmen. There is no pope, priest, or Brahmin in Islam. Any practicing believer can lead the prayers, and perform all duties and services as told in Aayah 60 of Surah Al-Momin: “Your Lord has said: “Call to Me that I may answer your call. Surely, those who disdain worshipping Me will enter Hell, disgraced”.
Prophet (SAW) demolished the idols of race, color, language and nationality. On the conquest of Makkah al-Mukarramah, he made the historical declaration “O people of Quraish, Allah has destroyed all complexes of racial superiority. All men are from Adam and Adam is from dust.”
The farewell sermon of Prophet (SAW) marked the culmination point of the Allah’s Din. The address encompasses each and every problem of this world and the Hereafter. It is teaching of Islam in a nutshell. In fact nothing is left uncommunicated. Read it and you will discover that this short address embodies the fountainhead of all philosophy and wisdom that there is. Volumes can be written on each point that Prophet (SAW) covered in this historic address. One point he declared is that no Arab is superior to a non-Arab, no white is superior to a black and no black is superior to a white but only on the grounds of piety (Taqwah). This reminds us of Aayah 13 of Surah Al-Hujaraat. Allah (SWT) says: “O men, We created you from a male and a female, and formed you into nations an tribes that you may recognize each other.”
The pre-Islamic world failed to understand that nothing is good or bad by its very nature. People attributed it to 2 gods: god of the good and god of the bad. Prophet (SAW) made it clear that application determines the result. Darkness if devoted to prayers is good, and if the cover of darkness is used to commit crime, it is bad. Fire is a source of comfort, yet its misuse can burn and cause havoc. Quran’s say in Surah As-Shams: “By the soul and Him who perfected it and inspired it with knowledge of what is wrong for it and what is right for it: indeed successful will be the one who keeps it pure, and indeed failure will be the one who corrupts it.”
May Allah (SWT) enable us to acquire knowledge and use all Allah’s given knowledge to achieve success in both the worlds. Aameen!
Allah (SWT)’s guidance from day one came to mankind through His different messengers. From Hazrat Adam (AS) to Hazrat Eesa (AS) everyone’s mission was either limited to a given region, to a given people, or it was meant for a given period of time. That is the reason that no single scripture is available in its original and pure form. Also, no complete record of any prophet or messenger is available. Whatever is available about prophets is neither complete nor authentic, or accurately documented.
This is not a coincidence, but it is Allah’s plan and will to keep only that Book intact, inalterable and safe until eternity, which is total and complete in all respects. In Prophet (SAW)’s person is completed the chain of all prophets. His life with all its minute details and dimensions is safe like the meanings and the words of the Holy Qur’an. Even those hidden aspects of Prophet’s life, which may elude the attention of an average biographer, has not escaped the attention of the scrutinizing pen of meticulously critical zealous historians. Every single word that was ever uttered by Prophet (SAW), his communication, his letters, his smile, his body language, expressions of his face, his emotions of pleasure and pain, his styles, even how much gray hair he had as he grew in age, has been recorded by those exemplary companions who loved him over, above and beyond every thing. In fact his companions can be compared to a video or move camera, which didn’t let any single moment pass without having recorded and saved it for all times to come. These companions became the moving images of leading light throughout the world. There has never been and will never be a person of such a towering importance and magnitude whose life was or will be recorded minute by minute and second by second.
This extraordinary and special arrangement attests that the message of Prophet (SAW) is total, complete and perfect. And the message very rightly attests to this claim in Surah Al-Maa’idah. Allah (SWT) says “ This moment I have perfected your religion for you and completed My favor unto you and have chosen for you as Al-Islam your religion.”
The perfection of this comprehensive message encircles all possible aspects of human life. Prophet (SAW)’s multidimensional personality gives guidance in beliefs, worship, inter-personal relations, social etiquettes, ethics, morals, politics, state-craft, foreign relations, good governance, public administration, law and jurisprudence, just a few to mention.
Prophet (SAW) had himself advised his companions to copy and report to others without hesitation all words and actions of his personal, private and social life. Prophet (SAW) led a life not only among those who loved him, but also among his bitter foes. Even his worst enemies did not and could not raise a finger on his up-righteousness, honesty, integrity, magnanimity, generosity and nobility.
Ibn-e-Hishaam in his monumental works tells us that once the kingpins of Quraish were talking about Prophet (SAW). Nazar bin Harith, who was known for his knowledge, wisdom and experience told the assembly of elders, chiefs and leaders that you all know Muhammad (SAW) from his early childhood; he is one of the most trustworthy, honest, and noble person. Now, when there is silver in his hair, you call him a magician, a soothsayer, a poet, or possessed by an evil spirit. I swear by God, I have heard him speak, and he is none of what you think of him.
Islam invites people from all walks of life, from all stratum of society, from all possible diverse backgrounds to follow the perfect and ideal model of Prophet (SAW)’s life. No aspect or dimension of human life is beyond the scope of Prophet (SAW)’s teachings and guidance. Once a Jew sarcastically and tauntingly told a Sahaabi, that your Prophet even teaches the most ordinary and trivial things. The Sahaabi giving him a befitting rebuttal said that yes, our Prophet (SAW) teaches us even the etiquettes of using the bathroom. Since perfection and permanence go hand in hand, Prophet (SAW)’s message is perfect, and absolutely eternal.
Prophet (SAW) first cleared the fog of ‘Shirk” and connected mankind with one and the only Creator. Surah Al-Ikhlaas succinctly mentions “Tawheed” in just a few sentences:
“Say: He is Allah the One and Only; Allah is self-sufficient. He begets not, nor is He begotten; And there is none comparable to Him.” This Surah tells that the relationship between the Creator and the created is permanent and eternal. Prophet (SAW) has given a distinct honor to man that he can’t bow to any one but Allah and no one can look after him and his needs but Allah. Surah Al-Jinn says: “All places of worship are for Allah; so do not invoke any one with Allah.”
Prophet (SAW) destroyed the concept of religious bureaucracy, liberated man from man’s slavery and wiped out the role of the intermediary between Allah and His bondsmen. There is no pope, priest, or Brahmin in Islam. Any practicing believer can lead the prayers, and perform all duties and services as told in Aayah 60 of Surah Al-Momin: “Your Lord has said: “Call to Me that I may answer your call. Surely, those who disdain worshipping Me will enter Hell, disgraced”.
Prophet (SAW) demolished the idols of race, color, language and nationality. On the conquest of Makkah al-Mukarramah, he made the historical declaration “O people of Quraish, Allah has destroyed all complexes of racial superiority. All men are from Adam and Adam is from dust.”
The farewell sermon of Prophet (SAW) marked the culmination point of the Allah’s Din. The address encompasses each and every problem of this world and the Hereafter. It is teaching of Islam in a nutshell. In fact nothing is left uncommunicated. Read it and you will discover that this short address embodies the fountainhead of all philosophy and wisdom that there is. Volumes can be written on each point that Prophet (SAW) covered in this historic address. One point he declared is that no Arab is superior to a non-Arab, no white is superior to a black and no black is superior to a white but only on the grounds of piety (Taqwah). This reminds us of Aayah 13 of Surah Al-Hujaraat. Allah (SWT) says: “O men, We created you from a male and a female, and formed you into nations an tribes that you may recognize each other.”
The pre-Islamic world failed to understand that nothing is good or bad by its very nature. People attributed it to 2 gods: god of the good and god of the bad. Prophet (SAW) made it clear that application determines the result. Darkness if devoted to prayers is good, and if the cover of darkness is used to commit crime, it is bad. Fire is a source of comfort, yet its misuse can burn and cause havoc. Quran’s say in Surah As-Shams: “By the soul and Him who perfected it and inspired it with knowledge of what is wrong for it and what is right for it: indeed successful will be the one who keeps it pure, and indeed failure will be the one who corrupts it.”
May Allah (SWT) enable us to acquire knowledge and use all Allah’s given knowledge to achieve success in both the worlds. Aameen!
Friday, May 23, 2003
(Prophet SAW)
BismilLahhirRahmannirRaheem
Islam’s proclamation of La Ilaaha Illallaah (there is not god but Allah) is not complete without Muhammad ar Rasulullah (Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger). That means that belief in Tawheed, Oneness of Allah (SWT) also requires us to believe in the last channel of communication between Allah and mankind, which is Allah’s last Prophet (SAW). Embracing Faith in Prophet (SAW) means to accept, obey, and practice all those commandments of Shari’ah, which Allah (SWT) sent through His last Messenger.
Allah (SWT) says in Aayah 21 of Surah Al-Ahzaab “You have indeed, in the life of Rasul Allah, the ‘Best Model’ for him whose hope is in Allah and the Day of the Hereafter, and who engages himself much in the remembrance of Allah.”
For the life of every Muslim, both the words and life style of Prophet (SAW) have been defined as the best sample and ideal model to follow. And following Prophet (SAW) is required, demanded and mandated. We can follow him in letter and spirit only if we are aware of Prophet (SAW)’s status in Allah’s sight. We can follow him only if we seek the blessings of Prophet (SAW)’s pleasure, and his displeasure hurts and agonizes us. We can follow him only if we know what Prophet (SAW) liked and what he disliked, what made him happy and pleased and what made him unhappy and displeased.
The love and attachment, which Sahaabah (Razi Allah-h-Ta’ala Anhuma) had with Prophet (SAW) has no parallel in world history. Allah (SWT) has told us through Sahabaa’s love with Prophet (SAW) how to love His last and great Prophet. The criterion of love with Prophet (SAW) is to see how much we follow that best model, how much we practice Prophet (SAW)’ Sunnah in our life. It is very easy to claim love with Prophet (SAW) in words and statements, it is also easy to express it through spending wealth, but it is very hard to translate that claim into action. This practical expression of love has been demanded from every Muslim, and this expression is the real measure of love.
Sahabaa’s life gives numerous examples of that selfless devotion and deeply ingrained love with Prophet (SAW). Think of that moment of Prophet’s migration to Yathrib later known as Madina. Prophet (SAW) made Sayyidina Ali (RA) to sleep in his bed and reached the house of Sayyidina Abu Bakr Siddique (RA). He told him Allah’s will and the details of migration. Having 20-year’s companionship with him, he spontaneously and impatiently asked a question: “Who will be your companion in this travel of Prophet of Allah? I aspire for that privilege.” Prophet (SAW) replied: “Yes, you will be my companion.” Pleasure of the acceptance of his request filled his eyes with tears. Ummul Momineen Sayyidina Aa’isha Siddiqa (Razi Allahu Anha) said that she realized for the first time in her life that pleasure could also bring tears to the eyes. Having explained the plan of migration, Prophet (SAW) and his loving companion embarked on their journey in the darkness of the night. While on their way, Prophet (SAW) noticed that Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA) some times walked ahead of him and some times behind him.
When he was asked by Prophet (SAW) as to why he was changing his positions, Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA), the very personification of utmost love replied: “Ya Rasul Allah, when I suspect that the enemy may come from behind, I want to shield you from the back, and when I fear that the enemy may ambush from the front, I want to be in the fore front to protect you.” This brief statement reflects the true “Ishq” or devotional love of a Sahaabi with Prophet (SAW). Sayyidina Siddique (RA) was putting his life on line so that no harm should be done to the beloved Messenger of Allah.
Before continuing their journey further to Yathrib, Prophet (SAW) and Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA) took a break and shelter in a cave. It was a rocky, uneven uphill path leading to the cave of Thawr (Sor). This was difficult and hard. It caused injury and bleeding to the feet of Prophet (SAW). Sayyidina Abu Bakr could not afford to see that sight, so he lifted the Prophet (SW) up on his shoulders till he reached the cave. Endangering his life, he entered the cave, cleaned it, tore apart his garment to block the holes in the cave walls, and came out to escort the Prophet (SAW). He then suddenly recalled that a hole was still left uncovered. He went back in, covered it and then requested Prophet (SAW) to get in.
Imam Malik bin Anas (RA) was madly in love with Madina-tun-Nabi. He did not leave that lovely city even for the sake learning. In Hijrah 160, a famine struck the city and in that year Caliph Abbas Mehdi performed Hajj along with his sons and came to pay his respects to the resting place of Prophet (SAW). Imam Malik drew his attention to the calamity and told him that the inhabitants of the city were the children of Muhajireen and Ansaar. The Caliph gave 25 lakh Dirhams to him, which the Imam got distributed among the poor and the needy. Later the Caliph sent 3,000 Dinars to him through one of his confidents, and requested the Imam to visit Baghdad. Imam bin Malik told Caliph’s messenger that the dinar bags were still sealed to be taken back as he could not part with Madina-tun-Nabi.
These are just but a couple of examples telling us the standard and criterion of love with Prophet (SAW). We need to examine and evaluate our life to see if we are really following that model which Allah (SWT) has defined the best for us. We must see how Prophet (SAW) obeyed Allah’s commands, how did he carry out Allah’s orders? How Prophet (SAW) reacted to pleasure and pain? How he fulfilled his duties, and the regard, which he had for the rights of others upon him? How he treated his family members, elders, youngers, relatives, foes and friends? What was his attitude towards the poor and needy? What he said about extravagance and miserliness or stinginess. His life is an open book for us to read, to draw conclusions, and practice to become a Muslim which Allah (SWT) wants us to be.
One of Prophet (SAW)’s companions, whom he was much pleased with, requested him to pray that he may be with the Prophet in the Hereafter. Prophet (SAW) replied that you should strengthen my supplication with much “ibaadah” and “sajood”, which is prayers and prostration. Prophet (SAW) had strictly forbidden lying and committing backbiting. If we want to do justice with Prophet (SAW) love, we have to hold on to his Sunnah firmly and be steadfast to his practices in all aspects of life. Achieving success in both the worlds lies in following Prophet (SAW). May Allah enable us back our claim with actions and practices that we are Muslims. Aameen!
Islam’s proclamation of La Ilaaha Illallaah (there is not god but Allah) is not complete without Muhammad ar Rasulullah (Muhammad is Allah’s Messenger). That means that belief in Tawheed, Oneness of Allah (SWT) also requires us to believe in the last channel of communication between Allah and mankind, which is Allah’s last Prophet (SAW). Embracing Faith in Prophet (SAW) means to accept, obey, and practice all those commandments of Shari’ah, which Allah (SWT) sent through His last Messenger.
Allah (SWT) says in Aayah 21 of Surah Al-Ahzaab “You have indeed, in the life of Rasul Allah, the ‘Best Model’ for him whose hope is in Allah and the Day of the Hereafter, and who engages himself much in the remembrance of Allah.”
For the life of every Muslim, both the words and life style of Prophet (SAW) have been defined as the best sample and ideal model to follow. And following Prophet (SAW) is required, demanded and mandated. We can follow him in letter and spirit only if we are aware of Prophet (SAW)’s status in Allah’s sight. We can follow him only if we seek the blessings of Prophet (SAW)’s pleasure, and his displeasure hurts and agonizes us. We can follow him only if we know what Prophet (SAW) liked and what he disliked, what made him happy and pleased and what made him unhappy and displeased.
The love and attachment, which Sahaabah (Razi Allah-h-Ta’ala Anhuma) had with Prophet (SAW) has no parallel in world history. Allah (SWT) has told us through Sahabaa’s love with Prophet (SAW) how to love His last and great Prophet. The criterion of love with Prophet (SAW) is to see how much we follow that best model, how much we practice Prophet (SAW)’ Sunnah in our life. It is very easy to claim love with Prophet (SAW) in words and statements, it is also easy to express it through spending wealth, but it is very hard to translate that claim into action. This practical expression of love has been demanded from every Muslim, and this expression is the real measure of love.
Sahabaa’s life gives numerous examples of that selfless devotion and deeply ingrained love with Prophet (SAW). Think of that moment of Prophet’s migration to Yathrib later known as Madina. Prophet (SAW) made Sayyidina Ali (RA) to sleep in his bed and reached the house of Sayyidina Abu Bakr Siddique (RA). He told him Allah’s will and the details of migration. Having 20-year’s companionship with him, he spontaneously and impatiently asked a question: “Who will be your companion in this travel of Prophet of Allah? I aspire for that privilege.” Prophet (SAW) replied: “Yes, you will be my companion.” Pleasure of the acceptance of his request filled his eyes with tears. Ummul Momineen Sayyidina Aa’isha Siddiqa (Razi Allahu Anha) said that she realized for the first time in her life that pleasure could also bring tears to the eyes. Having explained the plan of migration, Prophet (SAW) and his loving companion embarked on their journey in the darkness of the night. While on their way, Prophet (SAW) noticed that Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA) some times walked ahead of him and some times behind him.
When he was asked by Prophet (SAW) as to why he was changing his positions, Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA), the very personification of utmost love replied: “Ya Rasul Allah, when I suspect that the enemy may come from behind, I want to shield you from the back, and when I fear that the enemy may ambush from the front, I want to be in the fore front to protect you.” This brief statement reflects the true “Ishq” or devotional love of a Sahaabi with Prophet (SAW). Sayyidina Siddique (RA) was putting his life on line so that no harm should be done to the beloved Messenger of Allah.
Before continuing their journey further to Yathrib, Prophet (SAW) and Sayyidina Abu Bakr (RA) took a break and shelter in a cave. It was a rocky, uneven uphill path leading to the cave of Thawr (Sor). This was difficult and hard. It caused injury and bleeding to the feet of Prophet (SAW). Sayyidina Abu Bakr could not afford to see that sight, so he lifted the Prophet (SW) up on his shoulders till he reached the cave. Endangering his life, he entered the cave, cleaned it, tore apart his garment to block the holes in the cave walls, and came out to escort the Prophet (SAW). He then suddenly recalled that a hole was still left uncovered. He went back in, covered it and then requested Prophet (SAW) to get in.
Imam Malik bin Anas (RA) was madly in love with Madina-tun-Nabi. He did not leave that lovely city even for the sake learning. In Hijrah 160, a famine struck the city and in that year Caliph Abbas Mehdi performed Hajj along with his sons and came to pay his respects to the resting place of Prophet (SAW). Imam Malik drew his attention to the calamity and told him that the inhabitants of the city were the children of Muhajireen and Ansaar. The Caliph gave 25 lakh Dirhams to him, which the Imam got distributed among the poor and the needy. Later the Caliph sent 3,000 Dinars to him through one of his confidents, and requested the Imam to visit Baghdad. Imam bin Malik told Caliph’s messenger that the dinar bags were still sealed to be taken back as he could not part with Madina-tun-Nabi.
These are just but a couple of examples telling us the standard and criterion of love with Prophet (SAW). We need to examine and evaluate our life to see if we are really following that model which Allah (SWT) has defined the best for us. We must see how Prophet (SAW) obeyed Allah’s commands, how did he carry out Allah’s orders? How Prophet (SAW) reacted to pleasure and pain? How he fulfilled his duties, and the regard, which he had for the rights of others upon him? How he treated his family members, elders, youngers, relatives, foes and friends? What was his attitude towards the poor and needy? What he said about extravagance and miserliness or stinginess. His life is an open book for us to read, to draw conclusions, and practice to become a Muslim which Allah (SWT) wants us to be.
One of Prophet (SAW)’s companions, whom he was much pleased with, requested him to pray that he may be with the Prophet in the Hereafter. Prophet (SAW) replied that you should strengthen my supplication with much “ibaadah” and “sajood”, which is prayers and prostration. Prophet (SAW) had strictly forbidden lying and committing backbiting. If we want to do justice with Prophet (SAW) love, we have to hold on to his Sunnah firmly and be steadfast to his practices in all aspects of life. Achieving success in both the worlds lies in following Prophet (SAW). May Allah enable us back our claim with actions and practices that we are Muslims. Aameen!
Friday, May 9, 2003
Superstitions and Islam
BismilLahhirRahmannirRaheem
Superstitions and Islam
Scientific advancement has done wonders: man has landed on the moon, mars is within human reach, depth of oceans have been fathomed, nature is being tamed, animals are being cloned, and man is continuously striving to subject everything of this universe to the microscopic scrutiny of his expanding knowledge and research. But if a man is without Faith and Eeman, even his vast knowledge cannot liberate him from the slavery of superstitions. Things, which have been created to serve man, are being ignorantly considered as masters of his destiny.
Tawheed – Oneness of Allah Subhana-o-Ta’ala is a great honor and a blessing bestowed upon humanity by Islam. Tawheed means that Allah is the Master, the Absolute Controller and Regulator. Nothing has ever happened, can ever happen and will ever happen without the will and knowledge of Allah. His decision is supreme and no one can challenge it. Success destined for someone by Him can never ever suffer a failure, and if He means failure for someone, nothing can turn it into success. Human intrigues, schemes and planning have no value and are meaningless and futile before Allah’s will. No one can interfere in man’s fate; let they be stars, stones, any given number or numerals, specific moments in time, special days or months. Tawheed crushed all such idols of superstitions, and saved man from the worship of falsehood.
Superstition is a slavery, which makes man fear from things, or attaches the hope of help and benefit from things, which have no power to do good or bad to him. You must have seen or heard many examples of superstitious practices. For example, if a black cat crosses your path, or if an owl hoots, both are considered as bad omen. Traveling on a certain day is considered unsafe. One who is devoid of faith in Allah’s Supreme authority and power falls a prey to these superstitions and follies. Surprisingly countries where by and large people are educated, certain numbers are considered bad, and hotels don’t assign that number to rooms.
These superstitions had their followers in the pre-Islamic Arabia too. Before embarking on a journey, people used to set a bird free, and if it flew to the right, it was considered as a good omen, and if it flew to the left, the journey was given up. The owl was considered an evil bird. Its hoot was considered as harbinger of death and destruction. The month of Safar was considered bad and any business initiated in that month was believed to be doomed. Prophet (SAW) rejected these notions of ignorance and said there is no truth in such beliefs.
Arabs also believed that Shiyaateen lived in the woods and deserts and had the power to change their color and deceived travelers. They used to call them “Ghaul”. Prophet (SAW) rejected this idea as mentioned in Fatah-ul-Baari, Volume 10, page 168. Arabs also considered the month of Shawwal as bad and improper for marriages. Prophet (SAW) married Ummul Momineen Hazrat Aa’isha (RA) in the month of Shawwal and she went to his house in the same month. She said that which “Nikah” can be more blessed than mine.
Islam had planted the concept of Tawheed so deep in the hearts that no one could ever believe in such senseless superstitions. Hazrat Zunairah (RA) is a Sahaabiah. When she embraced Islam, she was subjected to such a torture that she lost her eyesight. Non-Muslims said that the loss of sight was due to turning her back to the idols, and saying bad things about gods and goddesses. In our days and time, not to speak of women, even men, both educated and illiterate, could have been influenced, but Hazrat Zunairah (RA) did not flinch even for a split of a second. She had lost “Basaarat”, eyesight, but not “Baseerat”, the Insight and wisdom. She said everything was subject to Allah’s will. Prophet (SAW) was very happy with her staunch faith. He prayed for her and as a result Allah (SWT) restored her eyesight.
Egypt came under the banner of Islam during the Caliphate of Hazrat Umar Farooq (RA). Country’s economy and prosperity depended on the river Nile. According to Egyptian custom a maiden girl was to be sacrificed to the river as and when it dried up. It happened that the Nile dried up after the Muslim conquest. Egyptians told Hazrat Amr-bin-alAas, the then governor of Egypt that the river needed a sacrifice for its revival. Hazrat Amr-bin-alAas informed Sayyidina Umar Farooq (RA), who wrote this on a piece of paper: “Nile, if you flow by the command of Allah, revive and resume, otherwise dry up for ever”, and ordered that his message should be thrown in the river. This was done and the Nile resumed its flow, revived and never did dry since then.
It is said that Taimoor conquered India and when he was trying to cross the river Jamuna, fortunetellers told him not to cross the river as it was an inappropriate time. Taimoor was not a very educated person, but he was a Muslim. He spontaneously rejected the idea and said that being a believers in Tawheed, he did not care for things in superstitions as did the believers in Trinity.
It is sad that even in this progressive era, some Muslims believe in superstitions. According to Islam, no time, day, or month is bad. No bird, or animal or any of its acts is a bad omen. It is better to consult one’s own conscience, provided it alive, and not to go after the astrologers and fortunetellers. Good or bad, luck or bad luck, success or failure, all is the direct result of man’s own thinking, acts and practices. Let us think what a great blessing is Tawheed for us. Belief in it has certainly made us to prostrate to the one and only Allah (SWT), our Creator, Nourisher and Provider, but has liberated us from thousands of other false gods, goddesses, and superstitions.
Iqbal (Rahmatullah Alaih) said:
“This one prostration, which you feel burden-some,
Liberates and rids you from a thousand prostrations.”
Superstitions and Islam
Scientific advancement has done wonders: man has landed on the moon, mars is within human reach, depth of oceans have been fathomed, nature is being tamed, animals are being cloned, and man is continuously striving to subject everything of this universe to the microscopic scrutiny of his expanding knowledge and research. But if a man is without Faith and Eeman, even his vast knowledge cannot liberate him from the slavery of superstitions. Things, which have been created to serve man, are being ignorantly considered as masters of his destiny.
Tawheed – Oneness of Allah Subhana-o-Ta’ala is a great honor and a blessing bestowed upon humanity by Islam. Tawheed means that Allah is the Master, the Absolute Controller and Regulator. Nothing has ever happened, can ever happen and will ever happen without the will and knowledge of Allah. His decision is supreme and no one can challenge it. Success destined for someone by Him can never ever suffer a failure, and if He means failure for someone, nothing can turn it into success. Human intrigues, schemes and planning have no value and are meaningless and futile before Allah’s will. No one can interfere in man’s fate; let they be stars, stones, any given number or numerals, specific moments in time, special days or months. Tawheed crushed all such idols of superstitions, and saved man from the worship of falsehood.
Superstition is a slavery, which makes man fear from things, or attaches the hope of help and benefit from things, which have no power to do good or bad to him. You must have seen or heard many examples of superstitious practices. For example, if a black cat crosses your path, or if an owl hoots, both are considered as bad omen. Traveling on a certain day is considered unsafe. One who is devoid of faith in Allah’s Supreme authority and power falls a prey to these superstitions and follies. Surprisingly countries where by and large people are educated, certain numbers are considered bad, and hotels don’t assign that number to rooms.
These superstitions had their followers in the pre-Islamic Arabia too. Before embarking on a journey, people used to set a bird free, and if it flew to the right, it was considered as a good omen, and if it flew to the left, the journey was given up. The owl was considered an evil bird. Its hoot was considered as harbinger of death and destruction. The month of Safar was considered bad and any business initiated in that month was believed to be doomed. Prophet (SAW) rejected these notions of ignorance and said there is no truth in such beliefs.
Arabs also believed that Shiyaateen lived in the woods and deserts and had the power to change their color and deceived travelers. They used to call them “Ghaul”. Prophet (SAW) rejected this idea as mentioned in Fatah-ul-Baari, Volume 10, page 168. Arabs also considered the month of Shawwal as bad and improper for marriages. Prophet (SAW) married Ummul Momineen Hazrat Aa’isha (RA) in the month of Shawwal and she went to his house in the same month. She said that which “Nikah” can be more blessed than mine.
Islam had planted the concept of Tawheed so deep in the hearts that no one could ever believe in such senseless superstitions. Hazrat Zunairah (RA) is a Sahaabiah. When she embraced Islam, she was subjected to such a torture that she lost her eyesight. Non-Muslims said that the loss of sight was due to turning her back to the idols, and saying bad things about gods and goddesses. In our days and time, not to speak of women, even men, both educated and illiterate, could have been influenced, but Hazrat Zunairah (RA) did not flinch even for a split of a second. She had lost “Basaarat”, eyesight, but not “Baseerat”, the Insight and wisdom. She said everything was subject to Allah’s will. Prophet (SAW) was very happy with her staunch faith. He prayed for her and as a result Allah (SWT) restored her eyesight.
Egypt came under the banner of Islam during the Caliphate of Hazrat Umar Farooq (RA). Country’s economy and prosperity depended on the river Nile. According to Egyptian custom a maiden girl was to be sacrificed to the river as and when it dried up. It happened that the Nile dried up after the Muslim conquest. Egyptians told Hazrat Amr-bin-alAas, the then governor of Egypt that the river needed a sacrifice for its revival. Hazrat Amr-bin-alAas informed Sayyidina Umar Farooq (RA), who wrote this on a piece of paper: “Nile, if you flow by the command of Allah, revive and resume, otherwise dry up for ever”, and ordered that his message should be thrown in the river. This was done and the Nile resumed its flow, revived and never did dry since then.
It is said that Taimoor conquered India and when he was trying to cross the river Jamuna, fortunetellers told him not to cross the river as it was an inappropriate time. Taimoor was not a very educated person, but he was a Muslim. He spontaneously rejected the idea and said that being a believers in Tawheed, he did not care for things in superstitions as did the believers in Trinity.
It is sad that even in this progressive era, some Muslims believe in superstitions. According to Islam, no time, day, or month is bad. No bird, or animal or any of its acts is a bad omen. It is better to consult one’s own conscience, provided it alive, and not to go after the astrologers and fortunetellers. Good or bad, luck or bad luck, success or failure, all is the direct result of man’s own thinking, acts and practices. Let us think what a great blessing is Tawheed for us. Belief in it has certainly made us to prostrate to the one and only Allah (SWT), our Creator, Nourisher and Provider, but has liberated us from thousands of other false gods, goddesses, and superstitions.
Iqbal (Rahmatullah Alaih) said:
“This one prostration, which you feel burden-some,
Liberates and rids you from a thousand prostrations.”
Friday, March 7, 2003
Muharram
BismilLahhirRahmannirRaheem
03/07/03
We are in the Islamic month of Muharram, which was respected even in the pre-Islamic period. The 10th of this month is called “Aashurah”, an Arabic word, which means ten. Every month and its 29 or 30 days are all alike, but by attaching special commands to some, Allah Subhana-o-Ta’ala has given importance to some months over other months and some days over other days. In Surah At-Tauba (Aaya 36), Qur’an says: “The number of months with Allah is 12. This is in accordance to His law since the day He created heavens and the earth. Of these 4 are holy.” These four months are: Muharram, Zul-Aqdah, Zul-Hijjah, and Ramadan.
Aashurah, the 10th day of Muharram has Allah’s special blessings to it. Pre-Islamic Quraish used to fast and decorate the Kaabah with a new cover on this day. It is possible that it was in line with some traditions of Sayyidina Ibraheem and Sayyidina Isma’eel, which Quraish knew from earlier history. Prophet (SAW) agreed and shared with Quraish all those good customs and traditions, which had their roots in the Sunnah of Sayyidina Ibraheem (AS) and were practiced and observed by Quraish. That is why Prophet (SAW) used to perform Hajj and fasted on the Aashurah. When Prophet (SAW) graced Madinah with his presence, he saw the Jews of the city fasting on that day. According to Hazrat Abdullah bin Abbas (RA), the Prophet (SAW) learned from the Jews that Aashurah was historic because Allah bestowed freedom to Prophet Musa and his people from Fir’on, and had him and his army drowned. Jews told the Prophet (SAW) that they observed fast on this day to thank Allah. Prophet (SAW) said that we being Muslims have greater rights and relationship with Allah’s Messenger Musa than Jews, and then Prophet (SAW) fasted and advised his Ummah to fast on that day. Both Muslim and Bukhari have recorded this. (According of Musnad Ahmad the arch of Prophet Nuh (AS) anchored on mount Judi on this very day.)
According to certain traditions Prophet (SAW)’s instructions to fast on Aashurah were similar in nature to those instructions, which were given for Fard or Waajib. (We know that performance of Fard and Waajib prayers is rewarded and their omission is punished.) As per Sahih al-Bukhari and Muslim, Rubayya bint-e-Mu’awwid bin Afra, and Salma bin Al-Aku (RA) relate that once on the early morning of the day of Aashurah, Prophet (SAW) sent messages to the Ansaar living in the outskirts of Madinah to observe fast if they had not eaten or drank yet, but if they had, then they should refrain from eating and drinking and behave like those who were fasting. Scholars have deduced from these traditions that initially the fast of Aashurah was Waajib, and was made Musnoon after fasting of Ramadan was made obligatory. As recorded in Mishkaat (Volume 1, page 178) per Tirmizi, Hazrat Abu Hurairah relates that Prophet (SAW) said that the fast of Aashurah is the next to Ramadan in priority and rank. Hazrat Abdullah bin Abbas (RA) relates his observation and says that Prophet (SAW) did not take special care of any other exalted days for fasting except the days of Aashurah and Ramadan.
Some people mistakenly think that Aashurah is exalted because Sayyidina Imaam Husain, the grandson of Prophet (SAW) achieved martyrdom on that day. The tragedy had happened after 60 years of Prophet (SAW)’s passing away. In fact it is Allah’s great favor that He further exalted the status of Sayyidina Imaam Husain by giving him martyrdom on the day, which was already honored and sanctified in Islam.
Many other things associated with Aashurah like: Prophet Adam was sent down on earth, or Prophet Ibraheem was thrown into fire, which was cooled for him on this day have no authenticity to them. It is sufficient enough to make this day important because Allah exalted it and His Messenger Prophet (SAW) commanded us to fast on this day. There is yet another important thing about this day. Before passing away from this world, when Prophet (SAW) observed fast on the last Aashurah of his life, he said that if was to live for another year, he would also fast the preceding and the following day of Aashurah, that is the 9th and 11th of Muharram. It was simply to make a clear distinction and avoid the resemblance between the practices of the Jews and that of Muslims. But Prophet (SAW) passed away the same year. In the light of Prophet (SAW) wish, the scholars have considered it as Makruh (disliked) to observe only one fast. It wouldn’t be a sin to fast that day alone, but the fulfillment of Prophet (SAW) wish will Insha Allah be much rewarded.
A lesson from Prophet (SAW) wish that we can learn is that our Prophet (SAW) did not like the slightest resemblance even in good actions with the non-Muslims. Why? Because the Deen that Allah Subhana-o-Ta’ala has given to us is superior, distinguished and dominates all other faiths due to its finality and perfection. That is why a Muslim should have the inward and outward distinction over non-Muslims. He should distinguish himself in words and actions, in manners and morals, in etiquettes and life style, in the religious and social life, and in customs and culture. Prophet (SAW) said: “One who adopts the resemblance of people of any given nation, he is from among them.”
The last word, I would like to add is that we should make every intention and try to translate into action what we have learned about Muharram and Aashurah. We should make every effort to distance ourselves from those customs and practices, which have no basis in our Deen and are non-Islamic in nature.
03/07/03
We are in the Islamic month of Muharram, which was respected even in the pre-Islamic period. The 10th of this month is called “Aashurah”, an Arabic word, which means ten. Every month and its 29 or 30 days are all alike, but by attaching special commands to some, Allah Subhana-o-Ta’ala has given importance to some months over other months and some days over other days. In Surah At-Tauba (Aaya 36), Qur’an says: “The number of months with Allah is 12. This is in accordance to His law since the day He created heavens and the earth. Of these 4 are holy.” These four months are: Muharram, Zul-Aqdah, Zul-Hijjah, and Ramadan.
Aashurah, the 10th day of Muharram has Allah’s special blessings to it. Pre-Islamic Quraish used to fast and decorate the Kaabah with a new cover on this day. It is possible that it was in line with some traditions of Sayyidina Ibraheem and Sayyidina Isma’eel, which Quraish knew from earlier history. Prophet (SAW) agreed and shared with Quraish all those good customs and traditions, which had their roots in the Sunnah of Sayyidina Ibraheem (AS) and were practiced and observed by Quraish. That is why Prophet (SAW) used to perform Hajj and fasted on the Aashurah. When Prophet (SAW) graced Madinah with his presence, he saw the Jews of the city fasting on that day. According to Hazrat Abdullah bin Abbas (RA), the Prophet (SAW) learned from the Jews that Aashurah was historic because Allah bestowed freedom to Prophet Musa and his people from Fir’on, and had him and his army drowned. Jews told the Prophet (SAW) that they observed fast on this day to thank Allah. Prophet (SAW) said that we being Muslims have greater rights and relationship with Allah’s Messenger Musa than Jews, and then Prophet (SAW) fasted and advised his Ummah to fast on that day. Both Muslim and Bukhari have recorded this. (According of Musnad Ahmad the arch of Prophet Nuh (AS) anchored on mount Judi on this very day.)
According to certain traditions Prophet (SAW)’s instructions to fast on Aashurah were similar in nature to those instructions, which were given for Fard or Waajib. (We know that performance of Fard and Waajib prayers is rewarded and their omission is punished.) As per Sahih al-Bukhari and Muslim, Rubayya bint-e-Mu’awwid bin Afra, and Salma bin Al-Aku (RA) relate that once on the early morning of the day of Aashurah, Prophet (SAW) sent messages to the Ansaar living in the outskirts of Madinah to observe fast if they had not eaten or drank yet, but if they had, then they should refrain from eating and drinking and behave like those who were fasting. Scholars have deduced from these traditions that initially the fast of Aashurah was Waajib, and was made Musnoon after fasting of Ramadan was made obligatory. As recorded in Mishkaat (Volume 1, page 178) per Tirmizi, Hazrat Abu Hurairah relates that Prophet (SAW) said that the fast of Aashurah is the next to Ramadan in priority and rank. Hazrat Abdullah bin Abbas (RA) relates his observation and says that Prophet (SAW) did not take special care of any other exalted days for fasting except the days of Aashurah and Ramadan.
Some people mistakenly think that Aashurah is exalted because Sayyidina Imaam Husain, the grandson of Prophet (SAW) achieved martyrdom on that day. The tragedy had happened after 60 years of Prophet (SAW)’s passing away. In fact it is Allah’s great favor that He further exalted the status of Sayyidina Imaam Husain by giving him martyrdom on the day, which was already honored and sanctified in Islam.
Many other things associated with Aashurah like: Prophet Adam was sent down on earth, or Prophet Ibraheem was thrown into fire, which was cooled for him on this day have no authenticity to them. It is sufficient enough to make this day important because Allah exalted it and His Messenger Prophet (SAW) commanded us to fast on this day. There is yet another important thing about this day. Before passing away from this world, when Prophet (SAW) observed fast on the last Aashurah of his life, he said that if was to live for another year, he would also fast the preceding and the following day of Aashurah, that is the 9th and 11th of Muharram. It was simply to make a clear distinction and avoid the resemblance between the practices of the Jews and that of Muslims. But Prophet (SAW) passed away the same year. In the light of Prophet (SAW) wish, the scholars have considered it as Makruh (disliked) to observe only one fast. It wouldn’t be a sin to fast that day alone, but the fulfillment of Prophet (SAW) wish will Insha Allah be much rewarded.
A lesson from Prophet (SAW) wish that we can learn is that our Prophet (SAW) did not like the slightest resemblance even in good actions with the non-Muslims. Why? Because the Deen that Allah Subhana-o-Ta’ala has given to us is superior, distinguished and dominates all other faiths due to its finality and perfection. That is why a Muslim should have the inward and outward distinction over non-Muslims. He should distinguish himself in words and actions, in manners and morals, in etiquettes and life style, in the religious and social life, and in customs and culture. Prophet (SAW) said: “One who adopts the resemblance of people of any given nation, he is from among them.”
The last word, I would like to add is that we should make every intention and try to translate into action what we have learned about Muharram and Aashurah. We should make every effort to distance ourselves from those customs and practices, which have no basis in our Deen and are non-Islamic in nature.
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