from:"Sadia"

Bismillah [IslamCity] HIJAB

2008-07-21 Thread Sadia Khan









 
 
 

HIJAB 
HIJAB MORE THAN A HEAD COVER
Muslim woman wear a hijab...which is more than just a head cover..becoz ALLAH 
ordered them to do soin two places in QURANand as PROPHET(pbuh) also ordered 
her to do so.
The QURAN says (surah:24 verse:30-31)
Tell the believing men to lower thier gazeand be modest.That is purer for 
them.LO! ALLAH is aware of what they do.And tell the believing women to lower 
their gazeand be modest and to display of their adornmentonly that which is 
apparentand to draw their veils upon their bosoms, and not to reveal their 
adornment save to their own fathers, husbands or husbands` fathers ,or their 
sons or their husbands` sons,or their brothers or their brothers`sons or 
sisters`sons,or their women or their slaves,or male attendants who lack 
vigor,or children who know naught of women nackedness.AND let them not  stamp 
their feet so as toreveal what they hide of their adornment. AND turn unto 
ALLAH together, O! Believers in order that ye may succeed.
These verses tell us thatour islamic dress is notjust a matter of covering the 
head alone, but also covering the bosom, which is attractive to men, and of 
lowering the gaze and walking in the way that does not attract attention.NOTE 
that the order to lower the gaze was first addressed to men
QURAN also says( surah:33 verse:59)
O Prophet! Tell thy wives and thy daughtersand the women of believers to draw 
their cloaksclose round them(when they go out).That will be better,that so thay 
may be recognized and not annoyed.ALLAH is ever forgiving and merciful.
This indicates that one of the reasons for Hijab is to distinguish the 
believingwomen from the non believing.
The fact is thatmen do like to look at womens` bodies, so a woman who covers 
herself is more likelyto be respected as a person than looked upon as a piece 
of meat!
It is true that men dont have to cover their heads,but their is a dress code 
for them, as well, although it is not so widely publicized as the women`s dress 
code. M en must  atleast be covered from the navel to the knees with loose 
fitting clothes.The rules for men are different because women are less likely 
to ogle menthan the other way around.
HIJAB is a women`s right to maintain her modesty and to be respected as a 
person.If one woman has to go half naked in the public, Why does not the other 
woman has the right to cover herself in public? Why it is to be looked upon as 
an oppression if she chooses to be modest?
ALLAH KNOWS BEST






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Boycott Israel [IslamCity] Keeping Appointments, Delays and Cancellation

2006-09-22 Thread Sadia Qureshi

Keeping Appointments, Delays and CancellationShaykh Abdul Fattah Abu GhuddaIn the first verse of Surah al-Ma'idah, Allah called upon the believers: "O you who believe! Fulfill your promises." [5:1] In Surah Maryam, Allah also praised Prophet Ismail: "He was true to his promise, He was a Messenger and a Prophet." [19:54] Keeping appointments is vital to our lives. Time is the most precious commodity; once wasted, it can never be recovered. If you made an appointment, whether with a friend, colleague or for business, you should do your utmost to keep this appointment. This is the right of the other persons who, despite other conimitments, favored you with a part of their valuable time. If you do not come on time, not only have you disrupted their schedule but you have also marred your image and reputation. If your punctuality becomes poor you will lose people's respect.You should keep all your appointments whether
they are with an important person, a close friend or a business colleague.You will then be responding to the call of Allah in Surah al-Isra: "And keep the promise; the promise is a responsibility." [17:34] It is enough to know that our kind Prophet, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, gave an appointment to one of his companions. The companion came three days later. The Prophet, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, gently reprimanded him saying: "You have caused me some trouble. I have been waiting for you for three days."The companion probably had an excuse for this delay; however, he had no means by which to inform the Prophet, sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam, about his inability to keep the appointment. Today, fast and reliable communication means are available everywhere. Therefore, as soon as you realize you will be unable to keep an appointment, you should inform the other parties to enable them to utilize their time elsewhere. Do not be careless or irresponsible
assuming that since the appointment is relatively unimportant, it does not merit a notice or an apology.This is totally irrelevant. Regardless of its importance, an appointment is a commitment that should be kept or properly cancelled in advance. Never make a promise while intending not to keep it. This is forbidden as it falls within lying and hypocrisy. Al-Bukhari and Muslim narrated that the Prophet said: "Three traits single out a hypocrite, even if he prays or fasts and claims to be Muslim: If he speaks, he lies. If he makes a promise, he does not keep it. If he is entrusted, he betrays the trust." [Al-Bukhari and Muslim] Imam Al-Ghazali in al-Ihya explains that this hadith is applicable to those who promise while intending not to fulfill it, or those who, without an excuse, decide later not to fulfill the promise. Those who promise but could not fulfill their promise due to a proper excuse are not hypocrites. But we should be careful not to present a
false excuse, as Allah knows our inner thoughts and intentions. taken from: www.islaam.com "The way to bring akhira into our dunya is through remembrance...you have to remember. Whenever you see fire, remember jahannam; whenever you see boiling oil, remember the drinks of the people of jahannam; whenever you see something gruesome, remember that it is a lot better than the food of the people of the hell-fire; and whenever you see something good in dunya, remember that it is nothing compared to what Allah has prepared for His servants in Jannah. Always make those associations." - Imam Anwar al Awlaki in his lecture, Importance of the Afterlife
__._,_.___

***
{Invite (mankind, O Muhammad ) to the Way of your Lord (i.e. Islam) with wisdom (i.e. with the Divine Inspiration and the Qur'an) and fair preaching, and argue with them in a way that is better. Truly, your Lord knows best who has gone astray from His Path, and He is the Best Aware of those who are guided.} (Holy Quran-16:125)

{And who is better in speech than he who [says: My Lord is Allah (believes in His Oneness), and then stands straight (acts upon His Order), and] invites (men) to Allah's (Islamic Monotheism), and does righteous deeds, and says: I am one of the Muslims.} (Holy Quran-41:33)

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all. [Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
--

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http://www.islamonline.net
http://www.islam-guide.com
http://www.prophetmuhammadforall.org

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[IslamCity] Khutbah: Du'a and Its Relationship with Destiny

2006-05-04 Thread Sadia Qureshi




Du'a and Its Relationship with Destiny*by Yasir QadhiThe topic of du'a and its relationship to destiny (qadr) is a very important one, and one around which much confusion exists. Many people ask: "If everything has already been destined to occur, then of what use is du'a, as, if Allah has written what I want, I will get it without making du'a and if it is not written for me, then I will never get it no matter how much du'a I make?" The response to this question lies in understanding that the outcome of anything is dependent on the performance of the efforts that are necessary to procure it. In other words, it has already been decreed, for example, that a seed will give fruit if
 planted, but this will not occur unless the farmer takes the appropriate efforts in irrigating the crop, maintaining it, protecting the seedling as it grows, and ensuring as much as he can that the factors are amenable for the plant to give fruit. So even though a person believes in the Divine Decree, he must at the same time strive all he can to ensure that the desired goal occurs. So du'a is the means that one uses to achieve the desired goal that one has, and this means in no way contradicts the destiny that has been written for that person. This stance is clarified by the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam's hadith reported by Thawban, that he, sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam said:"Nothing increases one's life-span except good deeds, and nothing repels Divine Decree except du'a. A person may be deprived of sustenance due to a sin that he does" (Ibn Majah)!  
   In other words, the performance of good deeds is a cause of increasing one's life span, so if a person puts in the necessary effort, the results will be achieved, and this is also destined. So both the means to achieve a goal, and the fulfillment of the goal itself, are already decreed.If someone were to ask: "How can du'a repel Divine Decree?" we would respond, "The fact that you may be ill has already been decreed by Allah for you, as has the fact that you will ask Allah to cure you of this illness (i.e. both the illness and your asking to cure the illness has been decreed). In a similar manner, a person maybe deprived of his sustenance that was decreed for him, since Allah's eternal knowledge encompassed the fact that this person would perform a sinful deed that would cause the deprivation of his sustenance. All of this, then, is from the decree of Allah, all Glory and Praise be to Him." There are a number of
 ahadith that clarify this point. For example, Mu'adh ibn Jabal reported that the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam said:"Caution will be of no benefit against Divine Decree, but du' a benefits all things, whether they come down or not. I therefore advise you to make du'a, O servants of Allah" (Ahmad, Abu Ya'la and al-Tabarani)! So no matter how cautious a person is, he cannot escape what is written for him, simply because Allah controls everything, and nothing escapes His Knowledge or Power. However, by turning to Allah through du'a , it is possible to avert something that might have been decreed. Salman al-Farsi narrated that the Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam said:"Nothing repels Divine Decree except du'a, and nothing increases one's life-span except good deeds" (Al-Tirmidhi and Al-Hakim).This hadith informs us in no uncertain
 terms that the only way that we can repel some Divine Decree is through the means of du'a. So it is possible that some unpleasant matter has been preordained for us, but only if we do not make du'a to avert it from us. So if du'a is made, then this matter will not occur or be fulfilled, whereas if du'a is left, the misfortune will occur.Another narration in al-Tirmidhi also supports this. The Prophet sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam said:"There is no Muslim on the face of the earth that asks Allah for anything except that Allah gives it to him, or averts from him a similar evil, as long as he does not ask for something evil or for breaking the ties of kinship" (Al-Tirmidhi).From this narration, the benefits of du'a are made clear, and its value is understood. For not only is a person rewarded for making a du'a, but it is also a cause of repelling an evil that was destined for
 him, and in obtaining the good that he was expecting.  Ibn Hajr, commenting on the benefits of du'a, said:"And the benefit of performing du'a is the attainment of reward by obeying the command (of Allah to make du'a), and also by the attainment of what is asked for, for there is a possibility that the request is dependent on the du'a, since Allah is the Creator of both the effort and result of the effort" (Fath Al-Bari)!Therefore, the proper response to the question posed at the beginning of the chapter is, in the words of Ibn al-Qayyim, as follows:"The logical consequences of such a reasoning leads to a rejection of all efforts. It can, therefore, be said to a person who holds this view,

[IslamCity] Compelling to One's Views

2006-03-14 Thread Sadia Qureshi

Compelling to One's ViewsIbn Taymiyyah, may Allah have mercy upon him, was asked about a person in authority, whose view is that partnerships involving shared labour are not permissible. Can he prevent the people from this?Ibn Taymiyyah replied: "He cannot prevent the people from this, nor from the likes of this, because it is from the permissible Ijtihad. Neither does he have any text from the Book, the Sunnah or the consensus to prevent this, especially when most of the scholars are of the view that the likes of this is actually
permissible; and this is what has been acted upon by the Muslims in their lands in general. This is just like a judge who is not allowed to negate the judgement of others in the likes of such issues, nor is it for the scholar or the muftee to compel the people to follow him in the likes of such an issue. This is why when ar-Rasheed sought from Malik that the people should all adopt his al-Muwatta in the likes of these issues, the latter prevented him from this and said:"The Companions of Allah's Messenger, peace be upon him, spread out into different regions; so each community took the knowledge that reached them."Once a person wrote a book about the various different opinions, so Ahmad said:"Do not call it the book of differences (kitaabul-ikhtilaaf), rather call it the book of leeway (kitaabus-sa`ah)."`Umar ibn `Abdul-`Azeez said:"What would make me feel uneasy is if the Companions of Allah's Messenger, peace be upon him, did not differ. Since when they concur upon an issue, then anyone who opposes them will be considered a deviant. But if they differ, then one person can adopt one of their views, whilst the other can adopt the other view; hence there would be flexibility in this matter."Likewise, Malik and other scholars have said:"It is not for the scholar to compel the people to adopt his views."This is why scholars who wrote books about ordering the good and forbidding the evil - from the followers of ash-Shafi and others - have stated: Indeed there is to be no forbidding with the hand in the likes of such issues of ijtihad, nor is it for anyone to compel the people to follow him in his view. However, he may speak about it with knowledge-based proofs. Whoever then sees the correctness of one of the two views, after it being clarified to him, may then follow it. But whoever follows the other opinion, then there is to be no forbidding him. And the likes of these issues are many. Source:"No Compulsion In Matters Of Permissible Ijtihad" - Ibn Taymiyyah
Good Deed that will lead to Hell Ibn al-Qayyim (r.a.) - Al-Waabilus-Sayyib minal-Kalimit-Tayyib ( p. 15)

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
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[IslamCity] Living the Qur'an: A Great Gift

2006-03-05 Thread Sadia Qureshi

Living the Quran Al-Rahman (The Merciful)Chapter 55: Verses 1-4A Great Gift"The Most Gracious Allah has taught the Quran; He has created man; He has taught him speech. The tongue and the language are great gifts of Allah. These gifts that Allah has given him makes him superior to all other creatures.The greater the gift, the higher would be its re-payment. Being grateful for it is as necessary as being ungrateful is reprehensible. Before addressing others take a glance at yourself,
and ask yourself whether this is an occasion which demands speaking. If the answer is in the affirmative, then speak, otherwise silence is much better. To avoid talking unnecessarily on appropriate occasions is a worship of great rewards.Abdullah Ibn Abbas says: "Five things are more valuable than the horses with the black-striped legs: 1. Do not indulge in senseless talk, because it is useless and absurd. 2. Talk purposefully when there is an occasion for it.3.
Do not indulge in hot discussion with an intelligent man or with a fool. If he is intelligent, he will be angry with you and will hate you, and if he is a fool and uneducated, he will try to harm you. 4. In the absence of your brother speak of him in the same words in which you would like him to speak of you in your absence, and consider him innocent of the thing which you would like him to consider you innocent of. 5. Act like a man who thinks that he will be rewarded for a good deed and will be punished on committing a crime." A Muslim can develop these
attributes in himself only when he keeps his tongue in control, and is able to keep silent wherever necessary. He should be able to hold the reins of his tongue in his hand; wherever necessary he should speak, and wherever it is not necessary he should keep quiet. Those who are ruled by their tongue, they are pushed back, and in the fields of life they receive insults and disrepute. Source:"Muslim's Character" - Muhammad Al-Ghazali
Good Deed that will lead to Hell Ibn al-Qayyim (r.a.) - Al-Waabilus-Sayyib minal-Kalimit-Tayyib ( p. 15)

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
--

All views expressed herein belong to the individuals concerned and do not in any way reflect the official views of IslamCity unless sanctioned or approved otherwise.

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[IslamCity] Our Duty to Support Our Prophet (sallahu 'alayhi wa sallam)

2006-01-29 Thread Sadia Qureshi

http://islamselect.com/naby/index.php?pg=enSupport Your ProphetIn The Name Of Allaah The Most Merciful, The Ever MercifulA declaration condemning the attack by reporters from Denmark and Norway against the Prophet, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam All perfect praise is due to Allaah; I testify that there is none worthy of worship except Allaah and that Muhammad is His Slave and Messenger; may Allaah exalt his mention, as well as his family and all his companions. To
proceed: One of the greatest things that makes a Muslim proud is his belief and love of the Messenger, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam (may Allaah exalt his mention). Muslims believe in all the Messengers and the Prophets, may Allaah exalt their mention, and do not distinguish between any of them -- except that our Prophet Muhammad, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, is the last and final messenger and prophet, and he is the best of them. He, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, is the first one for whom the gates of Paradise will be opened; belief in him, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, is the way to Paradise, as no one among those who were born after his prophethood, will be permitted entry (i.e. to Paradise) unless they had believed in him, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam. What can one say in response to the sarcastic caricatures published in the Jyllands
Posten newspaper from Denmark, in its issue dated Tuesday, September 30 th 2005? Whom was this newspaper mocking? It was mocking the greatest man ever created the leader of all the Prophets, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam. They featured evil, shameless images of him, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, as shameless as any disbelievers imagination can be.Again, in the days of Eed Al-Adh-Haa, to confirm their enmity, the Magazint newspaper from Norway repeated the same attack, as if they were trying to re-open the old wound, when they republished the images that were published in the first newspaper. Indeed, what Allaah said about the disbelievers is true: ÃóÊóæóÇÕóæúÇ Èöåö Èóáú åõãú Þóæúãñ ØóÇÛõæäó which means: Did they suggest it to them (i.e. did the former disbelievers pass on these words to the
Makkans so that they repeat the same expressions)? Rather, they [themselves] are a transgressing people.[Ath-Thaariyaat: 53]. What can one say in response to this open declaration of enmity? Should we look to the other side, deafen our ears and keep our mouths shut, while our hearts are still beating?I swear by The One Who honored Muhammad and exalted his rank! Our graves are dearer to us than being incapable of uttering the truth and defending our messenger, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam. Indeed! My father, my grandfather and my honor are in sacrifice for Prophet Muhammad, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam. The rank of the Prophet, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam: There is no phrase that can encompass all the features of greatness of this great Prophet, sallallaahu alayhi wa
sallam; and there are not enough words to describe his greatness -- a greatness that overwhelmed all people in all ages, and was decreed to be eternal. It is this greatness that is instilled in all hearts, settled in all souls, felt by all the people and even the enemies of Islaam.The Prophet Muhammad, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, possessed the perfect manners which no one can possess; a lofty rank which no one can reach. He, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, was the wisest person; the one with the most sound mind and opinion; the most generous -- whose alacrity in spending was said to be faster than a fast wind. He, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, used to spend like a person who never feared poverty due to spending. He, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, used to spend so generously, yet went to sleep hungry. He never saved anything, and used to instruct his companions, may Allaah be pleased
with them, to be generous, saying: Spend (charitably) O Bilaal! And do not fear that Allaah will decrease your provision (due to your spending).He, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, was the most tolerant of all people and the kindest; if someone abused him, he would forgive him, and the harsher a person was, the more patient he, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, would become. He was most lenient and forgiving, especially when he had the upper hand and the power to retaliate.He, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, was the most humble person -- he used to mix with the poor and the needy; he used to sit with the elderly and the widows; a young girl could take him by the hand to fulfill a need she had, and he, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, would go to fulfill it. He, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, never wore anything
to distinguish himself from his companions or appear in higher rank than them.He was most lenient, and if he was given a choice between two matters, he chose the easiest, as long as it was not a form of disobedience to Allaah. On the other hand, he, sallallaahu alayhi wa sallam, was the most

[IslamCity] Understanding the Prophet's Life: The Merchant of Musk

2006-01-16 Thread Sadia Qureshi

Understanding the Prophet's Life The Merchant of MuskThe company one keeps has major effects. It may lead either to benefit and improvement or to harm and corruption, depending on whether the company is that of pure and eminent people or people who are corrupt and evil. This effect does not appear suddenly, but is a gradual process that unfolds with time. The Messenger of God, may blessings and peace be upon him, said, "A man will be with his companions." And, "A Man's religion is that of his intimates, so let each of you consider who he becomes intimate with."He also said: "A virtuous companion is like the merchant of musk. Either he will offer you some, you will buy it from him, or you will find him pleasant to smell. But an evil companion is like the bellows-blower, either he will scorch your clothes or you will receive a otten smell from him."
If you wish to know whether those you mix and sit with increase or diminish your faith, religion, and actions compare your state with regard to good character, praiseworthy intentions, resolution in performing acts of obedience, and goodness before and after their companionship. If you find that these acts have become stronger and more firmly established and that you have become more desirous of and interested in them, then know that this particular company is of benefit to your religion and your heart, and that if you continue with it you will gain even greater benefits and acquire many more good things, God willing.Source: "Knowledge and Wisdom" - by Abdullah ibn Alawi al-Haddad, pp. 81-82
Good Deed that will lead to Hell Ibn al-Qayyim (r.a.) - Al-Waabilus-Sayyib minal-Kalimit-Tayyib ( p. 15)

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
--

All views expressed herein belong to the individuals concerned and do not in any way reflect the official views of IslamCity unless sanctioned or approved otherwise.

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[IslamCity] Story: The Boy the Apple Tree

2005-12-27 Thread Sadia Qureshi

The Boy the Apple Tree A long time ago, there was a huge apple tree.A little boy loved to come and play around it everyday.He climbed to the treetop, ate the apples, took a nap under the shadow.He loved the tree and the tree loved to play with him.Time went by the little boy had grown up and he no longer playedaround the tree every day.One day, the boy came back to the tree and he looked sad."Come and play with me," the tree asked the boy. "I am no longer a kid, I do not play around trees any more," theboy replied."I want toys. I need money to buy them." "Sorry, but I do not have money but you can pick all my applesand sell them. So, you will have money." The boy was so excited. He grabbed all the apples on the treeand left happily.The boy never came back after he picked the apples.The tree was sad.One day, the boy who now turned into a man returned and the treewas excited."Come and play with me" the tree said. "I do not have time to play. I have to work for my family.We need a house for shelter. Can you help me?" "Sorry, but I do not have any house. But you can chop off mybranches to build your house." So the man cut all the branches of the tree and left happily. The tree was glad to see him happy but the man never came back since then.The tree was again lonely and sad.One hot summer day, the man returned and the tree was
delighted. "Come and play with me!" the tree said. "I am getting old. I want to go sailing to relax myself. Can yougive me a boat?" said the man. "Use my trunk to build your boat. You can sail far away and be happy." So the man cut the tree trunk to make a boat. He went sailingand never showed up for a long time.Finally, the man returned after many years. "Sorry, my boy. But I do not have anything for you anymore.No more apples for you," the tree said. "No problem, I do not have any teeth to bite," the man replied."I am too old for that now," the man said. "I really cannot give you anything...the only thing left is my dying roots," the tree said with tears. "I do not need
much now, just a place to rest.I am tired after all these years," the man replied. "Good! Old tree roots are the best place to lean on and rest,Come, come sit down with me and rest." The man sat down and the tree was glad and smiled with tears.This is a story of everyone. The tree is like our parents. When we were young, we loved to play with our Mum and
Dad... When we grow up, we leave them only come to them when we needsomething or when we are in trouble.No matter what, parents will always be there and give everythingthey could just to make you happy. You may think the boy is cruel to the tree,but that is how all of us treat our parents. May Allah forgive all of us for our shortcomings and may He Guideus,Ameen Ya Rab.Your Lord has decreed that you worship none but Him.And that you be dutiful to your parents. If one of them or both of them attain old age in your life,say not to them a word of disrespect, nor shout at them butaddress them in terms of honour. And lower unto them the wing of submission and humility throughmercy, and say:"My Lord! Bestow on them Your Mercy as they did bring me up whenI was small." ~ Holy Qur'an, Al-Isra 23-24
Good Deed that will lead to Hell Ibn al-Qayyim (r.a.) - Al-Waabilus-Sayyib minal-Kalimit-Tayyib ( p. 15)

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
--

All views expressed herein belong to the individuals concerned and do not in any way reflect the official views of IslamCity unless sanctioned or approved otherwise.

[IslamCity] Names of Allah: Ad-Darr

2005-12-06 Thread Sadia Qureshi

AD-DARR The Afflictor Am I to take as deities instead of Him those whose intercession, if the All-Merciful desires affliction for me, will not help me at all and cannot save me? (Surah Ya Sin, 36:23) A sudden death, an unexpected disease, a crop-destroying hurricane, an earthquake leveling an entire city, fears for the future, a traffic accident, stress, loss of possessions, jealousy, ageing Such events are sources of grief, fear, and despair for those who are unaware of the Hereafter's existence and consider this worldly life to be their real life. No one is immune to such
events, any one of which may be encountered at any time and completely change one's life. Since we know that Allah is infinitely compassionate, what is the divine purpose for such ordeals? Allah sends hardship and trouble so that a person can grow spiritually. A person who has difficulty breathing can hardly be arrogant or humiliate others. Meanwhile, one who recovers from being bed-ridden or a financial loss fully understands the value of the restored health and possessions. Through difficulty and ease, Allah makes each person better appreciate His generous blessings. One point deserves special mention here. If the person being tested has faith and knows that the life in the Hereafter is one's real abode, he knows that every difficulty is from Allah and thus meets it with patience. Meanwhile, he seeks help only from Allah, for he knows that only Allah can remove this trouble. This way, Allah causes His servants to draw
nearer to Him and raise their ranks in the Hereafter. However, the truth is otherwise for those who have no faith in the Hereafter. Allah will display His name ad-Darr in Hell especially to these people. Yet compared to what they will go through in Hell, whatever causes grief here will remain insignificant, for all mundane pains are temporary. In Hell, where unbelievers will roast in fire, every time their skins are burned off, Allah will give them new skins so that they can taste the punishment again and again. Their only food will be a bitter thorny bush, and their only drink will be boiling water that tears their intestines. They will face death, but will never die. Instead, they will suffer severe and eternal pain. Beaten with iron cudgels and covered with beds of fire, they will be cast into the narrowest and darkest corner of Hell, where they will only be able to groan.
Unbelievers will ask Hell's custodians to ask their Lord to let them out and lessen their punishment for just one day. While punishing them and denying them any escape, Allah will make them see the blessings and bounty being enjoyed by the believers in Paradise. In one verse, Allah commands: If you ask them: Who created the heavens and Earth? they will say: Allah. Say: So what do you think? If Allah desires harm for me, can those you call upon besides Allah remove His harm? Or if He desires mercy for me, can they withhold His mercy? Say: Allah is enough for me. All those who truly trust put their trust in Him. (Surat az-Zumar, 39:38) www.harunyahya.com
Good Deed that will lead to Hell Ibn al-Qayyim (r.a.) - Al-Waabilus-Sayyib minal-Kalimit-Tayyib ( p. 15)

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
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[IslamCity] Khutbah: To Kill a Mocking Tongue

2005-12-02 Thread Sadia Qureshi

To Kill a Mocking Tongueby Muhammad AlshareefAl-Ma'roor ibn Suwayd narrates that he once saw Abu Dharr radi Allaahu anhu wearing a beautiful shawl. His slave standing next to him was wearing a shawl exactly like it, warm and beautiful. Ma'roor said to Abu Dharr, Perhaps you could take the shawl of your servant and give him another (less expensive) one. Never, said Abu Dharr, for I once had a servant whose mother was not Arab and I cussed him and his mother. That servant went to the Messenger of Allah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam complaining of the words I had said. When Rasul Allaah sal Allaahu alayhi
wa sallam saw me he commented, O Abu Dharr, you are a man who still has Jahilliyyah (Pre-Islamic Ignorance) in him.' Because of these painful words, Abu Dharr may Allah be pleased with him - would always dress his servants in the exact same garments that he would wear. Dear brothers and sisters, Allah is disobeyed most with our tongues. There is a sin that sweeps amongst us, a sin that many take lightly, a sin that is laughed at, a sin that could very well pull someone to Hellfire: It is the sin of insulting others. Read carefully this following verse. It is a commandment of Allah that begins with a call to those who claim to have Eemaan. Allah ta'ala says in the Qur'an (49/11): O you who believe let not one group of people make fun of another, perhaps the (one's being made fun of) are better then them. And let not women make fun of other women perhaps the (woman being made fun of) is better then them. And do not insult one another and do not
call each other by (offensive) nicknames. Wretched is the name (i.e. mention) of disobedience after (one's) faith. And whoever does not repent then it is those who are the Dhaalimoon (the wrongdoers). Perhaps the one that is being made fun of is more beloved to Allah. Subhaan Allah, let us remember this if we ever try to make fun of someone, perhaps Allah loves them and does not love us. Didn't the Mushrikeen make fun of Rasul Allah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam and we know Allah loved him and not them. Didn't the Munaafiqeen make fun of the Sahaabah and we know Allah loved the Sahaabah and not them. Rasul Allah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam said, Verily a person will speak words from those that Allah hates, paying no heed to what he is saying, and with those words he will plummet in to hellfire. Bukhari There are different reasons why a person would want to insult, make fun of and ridicule other community members: Firstly: They have
weak Eemaan and their fear of Allah is poor. This is one of the major reasons. Secondly: They spend a lot of their time in gatherings that bring no benefit. Thirdly: They themselves may want others to praise them. Sadly, when there is a student or a community member that insults others, often it is they that want to be the cool' one. How can they be cool' if they are doing something that Allah and His Messenger hate? Fourthly: They forget the punishment for those that make fun of others. Imam Al-Bayhaqee narrates in Shu'ab al-Eemaan, that Rasul Allah sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam said, Verily those people that make fun of people for them a gate of Jannah will be opened. It will be said to them: Come (and enter). That person will come with all their anguish and depression but when he gets close, the gate will be closed in his face. Then another gate (to Jannah) will be opened and it will be said: Come (and enter). So that person comes with all his
anguish and depression. But when he gets close, the gate will be closed in his face. This will keep happening to him until it gets to the point where it will be said: Come (and enter), and he will not come from the despair of ever entering paradise. Fifthly: Those that make fun of others may do so out of love for the Kuffaar and a love to imitate them. How many times do we see the comedians mocking people and everyone laughing? Indeed, mocking others and insulting them is a characteristic of Jaahiliyyah and kufr, and it is never a characteristic of a believer. Allah ta'ala shows us in Surah Al-Mutaffifeen (83/29) how this characteristic of laughing at others is a characteristic of the Kuffaar: Indeed, those who committed crimes used to laugh at those who believed. The seriousness of this sin varies in accordance to the subject being insulted: On the highest level of seriousness is to make fun of Allah or His Ayaat or His Messenger sal
Allaahu alayhi wa sallam. A group of Munaafiqeen started joking one day about their Qurr'aa, i.e. the Companions of Allah's Messenger. They described in ridiculing terms that they were large in stomachs, having lying tongues and being cowardly. Allah ta'ala tells us in the Qur'an (9/65-66): And if you ask them, they will surely say, We were only conversing and playing. Say, Is it Allah and His verses and His Messenger that you were mocking? / Make no excuse; you have disbelieved (i.e. rejected

Donate to Islamic Relief [IslamCity] Names of Allah: Ad-Dafi'

2005-10-22 Thread Sadia Qureshi

AD-DAFI` The Remover of Tribulations
And with Allah's permission, they routed them. Dawud killed Goliath, and Allah gave him kingship and wisdom and taught him whatever He willed. If it were not for Allah's driving some people back by means of others, Earth would have been corrupted. But Allah shows favor to all the worlds. (Surat al-Baqara, 2:251)
Allah, Who protects believers against all material and spiritual dangers, also grants them irrefutable power against all unbelievers, hypocrites, and idolaters. While unbelievers plan and plot, Allah moves against them. Driving their harm away, He makes the plotters suffer the consequences of their own plots.
Meanwhile, Allah divides unbelievers, makes them fight each another, and thereby causes them to lose their strength. Furthermore, He keeps those who hate Muslims apart from them and afflicts them with many disasters. The Qur'an relates this divine protection for believers, as follows:
Those who were expelled from their homes without any right, merely for saying: Our Lord is Allah. If Allah had not driven some people back by means of others, monasteries, churches, synagogues, and mosques, where Allah's name is mentioned much, would have been pulled down and destroyed. Allah will certainly help those who help Him (Surat al-Hajj, 22:40)
This aside, only Allah can repel all varieties of difficulty, disease, misgiving, Satan's promptings to evil, and many other disasters from believers. No doubt, each one of these represents Allah's overt and hidden help to humanity. He is very compassionate toward His servants, to those who take refuge in Him and seek His help and forgiveness.

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Ramadan Mubarak
O ye who believe! Fasting was ordained for you as it was ordained for those before you so that you may remain conscious of Allah.Translation of the Holy Qur'an, 2:183

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
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[IslamCity] Anger Management

2005-10-10 Thread Sadia Qureshi




Anger Management

Anger by itself is not unnatural. However, if one gets angry for reasons other than for the sake of Allaah, it can lead to problems. The Prophet (pbuh) described cures for this "disease" and ways to limit its effects, among which are the following: 

*(1) ) Seek refuge with Allaah from the Shaytaan: *

"And if an evil whisper comes to you from Shaytaan (Satan), then seek refuge with Allaah" [al-A'raaf 7:200] Sulayman ibn Sard said: "I was sitting with the Prophet (pbuh), and two men were slandering one another. One of them was red in the face, and the veins on his neck were standing out. The Prophet (pbuh) said, 'I know a word which, if he were to say it, what he feels would go away. If he said "I seek refuge with Allaah from the Shaytaan," what he feels (i.e., his anger) would go away.'" (Bukhaari)

*(2) Keep Quite: *

The Prophet (pbuh) said: "If any of you becomes angry, let him keep silent." (Ahmad). 
The angry person may lose self control and utter words of Kufr, curses, the word of divorce (talaaq),etc. So keeping quite would avoid all that. 

*(3)Make Wudu:*

The Prophet (pbuh) said: Anger is from the Shaytaan and the Shaytaan is made from fire. Nothing can put out the fire except water, so when any of you gets angry, he should make Wudu.( Ahmad, Abu Dawood) 

*(4) Get out of the situation you are in:*

The Prophet(pbuh) said: "If any of you becomes angry and he is standing, let him sit down, so his anger will go away; if it does not go away, let him lie down."(Ahmad). 

Sitting down makes it less likely that he will become overexcited, and lying down makes it even less likely that he will do something crazy or harmful. 

*(5) Remember the advice of the Prophet (pbuh): *

A man said to the Prophet (pbuh), "Advise me." He said, "Do not become angry." The man repeated his request several times, and each time the Prophet (pbuh) told him, "Do not become angry." (Bukhaari) 

*(6) Remember the rewards of controlling your anger: *

The Prophet (pbuh) said, "Do not become angry and Paradise will be yours." (Tabaraani-Saheeh) And he (pbuh) said, "Whoever controls his anger at the time when he has the means to act upon it, Allaah will fill his heart with contentment on the Day of Resurrection."(Tabarani)

*(7) Remember the reward for forgiving others:*

The Prophet (pbuh) said: "Allaah will not increase a person who forgives others except in honor." (Muslim). 

*(8) Know the high status and advantages offered to those who control themselves: *

The Prophet (pbuh) said: "The strong man is not the one who can overpower others (in restling); rather, the strong man is the one who controls himself when he gets angry." (Ahmad). 

The greater the anger, the higher the status of the one who controls himself. 

*(9) Know that resisting anger is one of the signs of righteousness (taqwaa):*

One of the characteristics of the ones Allaah loves is that they. "spend (in Allaah's Cause) in prosperity and in adversity, [they] repress anger, and [they] pardon men; verily, Allaah loves al-muhsinoon (the good-doers)." [Aal 'Imraan 3:134] ". . . when they are angry, they forgive." [al-Shooraa 42:47] 

*(10) Listen to reminders: *

A person may get angry, but the true mo'min is the one, when reminded, will remember Allaah and suppress his anger. Ibn 'Abbaas reported that a man said: "O son of al-Khattaab, you are Not giving us much and you are not judging fairly between us." 'Umar was so angry that he was about to attack the man, but al-Hurr ibn Qays, who was one of those present, said: "O Ameer al-Mu'mineen, Allaah said to His Prophet (pbuh) 'Show forgiveness, enjoin what is good, and turn away from the foolish' [al-A'raaf 7:199]. This man is one of the foolish." By Allaah, 'Umar could go no further after al-Hurr had recited this aayah to him, and he was a man who was careful to adhere to the Book of Allaah. (Bukhaari). 

*(11) Remember the bad effects of anger:*

Anger leads to regret and the need to apologize. The angry person may go out of control; he could strike out and injure someone, destroy possessions or even kill. He could utter divorce to his wife in a fit of rage and then regret it for the rest of his life. *(12) Du'aa': *

One of the du'aa's of the Prophet (pbuh) was: 

*"O Allaah, by Your knowledge of the Unseen and Your power over Your creation, keep me alive for as long as You know life is good for me, and cause me to die when You know death is good for me. O Allaah, I ask You to make me fear You in secret and in public, and I ask You to make me speak the truth in times of contentment and of anger. I ask You not to let me be extravagant in poverty or in prosperity. I ask You for continuous blessings,and for contentment that does not end. I ask You to let me accept Your decree, and for a good life after death. I ask You for the joy of seeing Your face and for the longing to meet You, without going through diseases and misguiding fitnah (trials). O Allaah, adorn us with the adornment of faith

[IslamCity] Living the Qur'an: De-compartmentalising the Heart

2005-10-06 Thread Sadia Qureshi

Living the Quran Al-Baqara (The Cow)Chapter 2: Verse 208 (partial)

De-compartmentalising the Heart

"O you who believe! Enter into Islam wholeheartedly, without reservation."

The Quran states that true taqwa cannot be attained until all your actions in life are done exclusively to earn the pleasure of Allah. Your qalb (heart) cannot be compartmentalised. You cannot dedicate one piece of it to Allah and another to some other god, like wealth, status, career, spouse and so on.

There is a beautiful verse in the Quran which throws light on the absurdity of such a situation. It tells about some of the mushrikin or idol worshippers who sacrifice animals and then say that one part of the animal is for Allah and another is for their idols. The verse then states quite clearly that whatever is assigned to Allah is also, in reality, assigned to the idols, for Allah does not accept something divided between Him and others. He is One, indivisible and wants the human being to be undivided in service to Him. So long as our heart lies in a hundred places, so long as our eyes are set in a hundred directions, so long as we have many loyalties, we shall never be able to achieve that condition of 'holding onto Allah'.

Why should we allow divided loyalties to capture parts of our heart? Nothing in this world is going to be of use to us when we breathe our last, however hard we may have striven for it and however valuable it may seem to us. We must recognise that the prizes we seek are not the worldly possessions received from human beings like ourselves. It is only our Creator who can put a real value on our striving and bestow on us a real reward.

Source: "In The Early Hours" - Khurram Murad

Ramadan Mubarak
O ye who believe! Fasting was ordained for you as it was ordained for those before you so that you may remain conscious of Allah.Translation of the Holy Qur'an, 2:183

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
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[IslamCity] Treatment of Non-Muslims

2005-10-06 Thread Sadia Qureshi

Understanding the Prophet's Life Treatment of the Non-Muslims

Every Muslim has been made responsible to employ good manners in dealing with all the citizens of the land unhesitatingly. For every Muslim it is necessary that he should be truthful in dealing with the Non-Muslims. Similarly good qualities like charities keeping one's promise, tolerance, decency, generosity, co-operation, etc. are to be brought into play while dealing with Muslims and Non-Muslims alike.

It is a famous incident of the biography of the Prophet that he owed something to a Jew. The Jew demanded repayment and in a very harsh tone said: "O Sons of Abdul Muttalib! You people unnecessarily delay the repayment of your loans." At that place Hazrat Umar bin AI-Khattab was also present. He decided to teach the Jew, who insulted the Prophet, good manners, and drew his sword from the scabbard. But the Messenger of Allah silenced Umar saying: "I and he deserve better treatment. Teach him to demand his money in a better way and advise me to repay it in a refined manner."

Islam has commanded to deal justly and fairly even if the opponent may be a wrongdoer or an infidel. Allah's Messenger has said: "The prayer of the oppressed is answered - if he is wicked and awrongdoer, its ill effects will go against him." (Ahmed)

In another Hadith it is stated: "Even if the oppressed person is an infidel, there is no obstruction between his prayer and its answer."

In the light of these authorities and the commands, Islam has advised its followers not to mal-treat their ideological and religious opponents. Similarly Islam has ordered that its followers should be kind to their relatives, even though they may have rejected this religion, which they have made their own.

Source: "Muslim's Character" - Muhammad Al-Ghazali

Ramadan Mubarak
O ye who believe! Fasting was ordained for you as it was ordained for those before you so that you may remain conscious of Allah.Translation of the Holy Qur'an, 2:183

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
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[IslamCity] The Owners of the Garden

2005-09-22 Thread Sadia

The Owners of the Gardenhttp://www.islamcan.com The following story is mentioned in Surah Qalam, Chapter 68 of the Holy Quran.Once there was a wealthy and pious man. He had a big garden full of green trees laden with fruits. After the fruits were picked, this rightful man used to distribute some fruits among the poor who would gather at the garden every season to take their share. Allah liked this act of the man. By the grace of Allah the garden used to give rich harvest every season. Truly, one who spends for the sake of Allah gets the reward in the hereafter as well as in this life.This man had many sons who were not so pious as him. When their father died, they discussed a plan and said to each other that their father was not a wise man. He did not know how it was difficult to earn
livelihood. They did not like the habit of distributing some of the fruits among the poor. They felt as if all their efforts would go to vain if the poor had some share.One of the sons had a concern. What will they tell the poor people when they gather to take their fruits next time? They thought over its implications, as they were worried about losing their prestige. However, they were not afraid of Allah's wrath. One of them suggested removing all the fruits in the night and thus clearing the garden before dawn so that nobody could come and ask for his share. Everyone agreed to this suggestion. Since they were not even afraid of Allah, they forgot to say 'Insha-Allah', which means if Allah Wills, "they swore to pluck the fruits of the (garden) in the morning, without saying Insha-Allah ('if Allah Wills')" (Verses 17-18). If a Muslim does not say Insha-Allah before doing something Allah may not fulfill his wish. But those who have no faith in Allah fail to remember this
and get stuck up in their act.Allah is all Powerful. He knows no bounds in His Governance. All the brothers went to sleep with a view to getting up early in the morning and gather the ripe fruits. In the meantime, with the Will of Allah "there passed by on the (garden) a visitation (fire) from your Lord at night and burnt it while they were asleep." (Verse 19)In the early morning, all of them got up and hurried up and "called out one to another as soon as the morning broke, Saying: 'Go to your tilth in the morning, if you would pluck the fruits.' So they departed, conversing in secret low tones (saying), No Miskin (poor man) shall enter upon you into it today." (Verses 21-24)As they were proceeding towards the garden, they were quite unaware that Allah had willed otherwise. Because the garden had become "black by the morning, like a pitch dark night (in complete ruins)" (Verse 20). So when they reached the garden, they said this was not their garden, and
that they had strayed away from the right path to the garden. But when they saw there was no other way around, they were wonder struck! Soon they realized the situation and yelled: "Verily, we have gone astray," "Nay! Indeed we are deprived of (the fruits)!" The best among them said: "Did I not say to you 'Why not glorify (Allah)'?" (Verses 26-28). He had been advising them earlier against this act, for he had said it is only Allah who would enhance their fruits if they continued to give away some of them in charity.All of them felt regretful over their misdeed. They turned, to one another, in reproach and said: "Glory to our Lord! Verily we have been doing wrong. Alas for us! We have indeed transgressed!" All of them, then, sought Allah's pardon and said: "We hope that our Lord will give us in exchange a better (garden) than this. Truly, we turn to our Lord (wishing for good that He may forgive our sins, and reward us in the Hereafter)." (Verses 31-32)It is very
beloved to Allah that we share with the less fortunate whatever we have. While some of us only feel hungry during the month of Ramadan, there are many who are hungry everyday. Let us be more generous with our wealth and help all those who are in need. We will not lose anything by giving away some of our wealth, we will only gain.

And whoever fears Allaah He will make for him a way out And will provide for him from where he does not expect. And whoever relies upon Allaah then He is sufficient for him. Indeed Allaah will accomplish His purpose. Allaah has already set for everything a [decreed] extent. At-Talaaq: 2-3

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{And who is better in speech than he who [says: My Lord is Allah (believes in His Oneness), and then stands straight (acts upon His Order), and] invites (men) to Allah's (Islamic

[IslamCity] Countdown for Ramadan Begins

2005-09-16 Thread Sadia

Countdown for Ramadhan Begins

The Countdown for Ramadhan Begins. The countdown has already begun. Less than a month remains for the arrival of Holy Ramadhan.The very name of Ramadhan evokes a feeling of expectant joy and pleasure in the heart of the Mu'min. A restlessness overtakes the Mu'min in eager anticipation of the Holy month. Sometimes, this feeling even turns to fear and anxiety. "O Allah, will I see Ramadhan this year?" Allah alone knows who will live to see Ramadhan.The reassurance comes in the form of a fervent Dua, "O Allah bless us in Rajab and Sha'baan and let us make it to Ramadhan." The Dua for this must continue with vigorous fervour - "O Allah! Let us reach Ramadhan.!" The anticipation of this great month is not just a matter of emotion and thought.It requires action and activity. Preparation for receiving the honourable guest of Ramadhan must start in earnest right away. Where do I start? What am I to
do? Well, a good starting point can be to spare a bit of time daily for preparation of Ramadhan.A person needs to start by making adjustments to the current lifestyle. The daily timetable must be altered, allowing more time for spiritual rejuvenation. Can I take out quality time from my present busy lifestyle? How much of time and when? Sit down and work it out. Maybe half an hour before Fajr and another half-hour before going to bed? Or will half an hour before and after Isha be more appropriate? Whatever it may be, at least an hour out of 24 hours must be set aside with discipline and consistency from today onwards.This is time dedicated to Allah and Allah alone. Unless for an emergency, no intrusion in this time must be allowed - no phone calls or other distractions. This time should be spent in developing a strong bond of love and affinity with the Noble Qur'an, with Dua and Zikr. A lot of time must be spent in introspection and self-appraisal. What is my current
state of Islam? Strong or weak? What are my main weaknesses? How do I overcome these? Who do I turn to for spiritual help and guidance? Deep, soul-searching questions have to be posed. This is one of the highest form of Ibadah. It is the Ibadah of Fikr or Tafakkur, a moment of which equals many years of Nafl Ibadah.Finally, all the "T's" of Ramadhan Shareef must be keptin mind so that when Ramadhan comes, "everything is to the T!". These "T's" are: Tilawah, Tahajjud, Taraweeh, Tasbeehat, Tadharru' (fervent Dua), Tatawwu' (Nafil Ibadah), Tasahhur (eating Sehri), Taubah (repentance), Tawadhu (humility) and Tafakkur (contemplation).May Allah Ta'ala make this Ramadhan a turning point in the life of the long-suffering Ummah. Aameen.http://www.alinaam.org.za/ramadhaan/countdown.htm

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The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
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[IslamCity] Names of Allah: Ad-Da'i

2005-08-20 Thread Sadia

AD-DAI The Caller
O you who believe! Respond to Allah and to the Messenger when He calls you to what will bring you to life! Know that Allah intervenes between a man and his heart, and that you will be gathered to Him. (Surat al-Anfal, 8:24)
People assume that they can take the best care of themselves and thus make the best decisions, set principles for themselves, and believe that their lives will be good if they adhere to these principles. But this is a great delusion, for Allah created humanity and is nearer to each person than his or her own jugular vein. A person may not know many things about himself; however, Allah encompasses everything about him, for He holds complete control over his seen and unseen features, his most inner thoughts, and his subconscious. Furthermore, a person can never know what she will face the next moment or may well forget some of her past experiences. But Allah, Who never forgets or errs, knows all that has happened and ever will happen in every person's life. For these very reasons, only Allah knows what is best for each person.
Indeed, Allah draws attention to this fact:
... It may be that you hate something when it is good for you, and it may be that you love something when it is bad for you. Allah knows, and you do not know. (Surat al-Baqara, 2:216)
For this reason, a person needs to respond to Allah and comply with the path that will bring him to life. Allah made this path clear through the Qur'an, which He revealed to our Prophet (saas). In every verse, Allah gives a detailed account of how a person must conduct himself or herself in order to attain salvation.
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Explore the Qur'an

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
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[IslamCity] Khutbah: L-A-Z-Y BOY - It's all in your mind!

2005-07-12 Thread Sadia

L-A-Z-Y BOY - It's All in Your Mind!by Muhammad Alshareef

During the time of the Prophet Muhammad (sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam ), an incident happened in which a man slept the entire night and he missed the Fajr prayer. Despite the fact that this is a very common occurrence in our present day, at that time such things rarely happened.
He missed Fajr, and so they came and spoke to the Prophet (sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam ) about this
Abdullaah ibn Masood, (radiyAllaahu anhu) narrates: A man came and said to the Prophet (sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam ), Oh Messenger of Allaah, verily a person slept last night until the morning, until the dawn came and he missed Fajr. The Prophet (sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam ) replied This is a person whom the devil has urinated in his ears.
Dear Brothers and Sisters, try going to any books of hadeeth. In each and every one you will find a chapter entitled, Baab al-Istiaadhah Minal Kasl. Translated, this chapter is called Chapter of Seeking Allaahs Protection from Laziness.
Kasl or laziness, also known as procrastination is a disease. University Students know what procrastination can do to their studies. It is a disease that afflicts the minds. After the mind, it then afflicts the heart. Finally, through the heart, the body is afflicted.
Today, you will learn that laziness is a technique used by Satan, and today you will learn the techniques you can use to combat it.
The Prophet (sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam ) frequently made the following supplication: Oh Allaah, I seek your protection from, alajz which means the inability to do something. And when someone says, I cant do that, the Prophet (sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam ) would seek protection from such negative speech by adding: and I seek your protection (Oh Allaah) from alkasl- which is translated as laziness.
At its core, this society is built on laziness. Consider that it is a society based on the idea that we have to rest on Sundays. Why do you have to rest on Sundays? some may ask. And society (may Allaah protect us from this) would answer that even Allaah got lazy on Sunday. He did His work all week long, He built the heavens and the earth, and then on Sunday He got tired and rested. So, may Allaah protect us, contemporary culture has us resting and watching football games on Sundays.
Allaah (subhaanahu wa taaala) testifies to the lunacy of such an idea, implicitly stating, That there is no drowsiness and no sleep that comes to Him. (2/255)
In addition, we live in a society that lives for fast and easy. You have the fast food joints, even the microwave meals that take 5 minutes are considered tedious because you have to take it out after a couple of minutes and stir it before it is finished cooking. Ever hear the promises to have the perfect body in ten minutes for only three days a week? Examples abound. And in its quest for fast and easy, society does not realize that the root of its problems, indeed, the root of all major sins, lies in laziness.
Why would a person take alcohol and drugs? They are too lazy to change their situation. Instead of actively striving for change, they take a drug to immediately change it. Why do people practice black magic, a phenomenon that is, unfortunately, prevalent in many of our parents societies? They do it because they are too lazy to go out and get married, or theyre too lazy to influence people in ways that will accomplish their various goals. Why do people partake in Riba (mortgages) and deal with financial interest? They are too lazy to get a proper job and work to pay for something honestly. Why do people gamble? They addictively buy lottery tickets at ridiculous odds of winning in the hopes that their one dollar will instantly earn millions. Laziness is again the culprit. What about that job? Why do people backbite? People backbite because they are too lazy to go and tell
the person the truthAnd these, dear brothers and sisters, are all major sins.
Thus, like a poison, laziness corrupts all good things.
There are beautiful and amazing things that you want to do for yourself, or do for Allaah (subhaahanu wa taaala). Your intention is good, but if you dont have the energy, or you suffer from the laziness plight, your desires will go nowhere, they will bear no fruit.
The causes of the disease called laziness are rooted in the heart.
Firstly, a lazy person doesnt know and doesnt understand his or her need to accumulate good deeds. We understand the need to accumulate money, but we may not understand why or how to accumulate good deeds. Very few people understand that this life is about collecting deeds and preparing for the journey of the hereafter.
Allaah (subhaanahu wa taaala) advises, to prepare your provisions (that pack your suitcases) for the best provision, the best thing to pack your suitcases with is the Taqwa (or Fear/Piety) of Allaah (subhaanahu wa taaala). (2/197) And this is the commandment of

[IslamCity] Names of Allah: Al-Batin

2005-06-05 Thread Sadia

AL-BATIN The Inward; The Hidden
He is the First and the Last, the Outward and the Inward . He has knowledge of all things. (Surat al-Hadid, 57:3)
Look around your room. Everything you see has been designed and made by someone: the door, the CD-player, a picture hanging on the wall, the window, and so on. Now look through the window at the trees, the Sun, the sky, flying birds, and other people. If it is nighttime, you can watch the stars and the Moon. Knowing that everything in your room has been made, is it not clear that everything around you also has been designed?
The truth of this assertion is apparent. If you cannot claim that a picture hanging on the wall was made by coincidence, then you also cannot claim that the Sun, stars, and the Moon are the result of coincidence. Everything you see on Earth and in the sky has a designer, producer, and creator. Our Lord, Who created everything with great artistry, introduces Himself to us through His creation.
When you look through the window you cannot see Him. However, Allah's existence, power, and artistry is clearly seen in His creation. This is the meaning that al-Batin conveys to us. His existence and control is clear in every corner of the universe, yet no one can see Him unless He wills otherwise:
Eyesight cannot perceive Him, but He perceives eyesight. He is the All-Penetrating, the All-Aware. (Surat al-Anam, 6:103)
www.harunyahya.com

Explore the Qur'an

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
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[IslamCity] Names of Allah: Al-Basit

2005-05-25 Thread Sadia

AL- BASITThe Expander
Is there anyone who will make Allah a generous loan so that He can multiply it for him many times over? Allah both restricts and expands . And you will be returned to Him. (Surat al-Baqara, 2:245)
Allah grants spiritual and material abundance to those who believe in Him and who obey Him wholeheartedly. He removes the difficulties they face. Upon encountering any hardship, trouble, or sickness, believers take refuge only in Allah. As a reward for this, Allah eases their tasks while making things difficult for unbelievers.
The Qur'an provides many examples about this issue. For instance, Prophet Musa (as) and the Children of Israel were forced to leave Egypt due to Pharaoh's violence. However, Pharaoh followed them. During this flight, the Children of Israel, who were caught between Pharaoh's army and the sea, thought that they were finished. Yet, Allah answered Prophet Musa's (as) call, divided the waters, and made a dry path so they could escape. Allah also destroyed Pharaoh and his army, and made the Children of Israel their inheritors.
This was also a manifestation of the following situation: Those who make pilgrimage in the Way of Allah will find many places of refuge on Earth and ample sustenance. If anyone leaves his home, making pilgrimage to Allah and His Messenger, and death catches up with him, Allah will reward him. Allah is Ever-Forgiving, Most Merciful. (Surat an-Nisa', 4:100) No doubt, Allah's promise has always been trueand will remain sofor His faithful servants. One verse reads:
Your Lord expands the provision of anyone He wills and restricts it. He is aware of and sees His servants. (Surat al-Isra', 17:30)
www.harunyahya.com

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
--

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[IslamCity] Names of Allah: Al-Baseer

2005-05-18 Thread Sadia

AL-BASEERThe All-Seeing
Have they not looked at the birds above them, with wings outspread and folded back? Nothing holds them up but the All-Merciful. He is the All-Seeing. (Surat al-Mulk, 67:19)
Our human faculty of sight is limited. With the naked eye, we can see for only a few kilometers. But to achieve this, we need clear weather and to be standing on a high place. Yet no matter how convenient the conditions may be, we can see only a hazy image.
In some situations, and especially when people are alone, they assume that nobody sees them. Assuming that they will not have to account for their deeds, they feel encouraged to do whatever they wish. Furthermore, they think they will never suffer any consequence for their wrongdoing. But this is a great delusion, for Allah sees even the smallest act. While our eyesight is limited, Allah sees the room in which a person remains, the rooms surrounding that room, the entire house, the city and country that harbor that house, the continent in which that country is located, the entire Earth, all planets, space, and all other dimensions beyond it. In the Qur'an, Allah informs us that He is aware of everything:
You do not engage in any matter, recite any of the Qur'an, or do any action without Our witnessing you while you are occupied with it. Not even the smallest speck eludes your Lord, either on Earth or in Heaven. Nor is there anything smaller than that, or larger, which is not in a Clear Book. (Surah Yunus, 10:61)
Perform prayer and pay alms. Any good you send ahead for yourselves, you will find with Allah. Certainly Allah sees what you do. (Surat al-Baqara, 2:110)
They have different ranks with Allah. Allah sees what they do. (Surah Al Imran, 3:163)
Those who adulterate Our Signs are not concealed from Us. Who is bettersomeone who will be thrown into the Fire or someone who will arrive in safety on the Day of Rising? Do what you like. He sees whatever you do. (Surah Fussilat, 41:40)
www.harunyahya.com

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
--

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[IslamCity] Names of Allah: Al-Baqi

2005-05-05 Thread Sadia

AL-BAQI The Everlasting
Everyone on it will pass away; but the Face of your Lord will remain, Master of Majesty and Generosity. (Surat ar-Rahman, 55:26-27)
All of creation has an end. People are born, live for a certain period of time, and then die. This is also true of plants and animals. For instance, a tree may live for hundreds of years and then fulfill its destiny by dying at its appointed time. Similarly, non-living things also will meet their end, for time wears them all out. In addition, what remains of ancient nations is only their ruins. Allah calls our attention to this fact: How many wrongdoing cities We destroyed, and now all their roofs and walls are fallen in; how many abandoned wells and stuccoed palaces! (Surat al-Hajj, 22:45)
The universe also has an end. All of the meteors, stars, and suns hurtling through space will one day exhaust their energy and disappear. Or, for another reason, Allah will destroy this universe and keep His promise regarding the Day of Judgment. He can do this, for He is the Creator and sole Owner of infinity, as the Qur'an reveals:
Anything you have been given is only the enjoyment of this world's life and finery. What is with Allah is better and longer lasting. So, will you not use your intellect? (Surat al-Qasas, 28:60)
www.harunyahya.com

"And if all the trees on the earth were pens and the sea (were ink wherewith to write), with seven seas behind it to add to its (supply), yet the Words of Allah would not be exhausted. Verily, Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise."
Holy Qur'an, Luqman (31):27

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
--

All views expressed herein belong to the individuals concerned and do not in any way reflect the official views of IslamCity unless sanctioned or approved otherwise.

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[IslamCity] Names of Allah: Al-Ba'ith

2005-04-28 Thread Sadia

AL-BAITH The Resurrector
How can you reject Allah, when you were dead and then He gave you life, then He will make you die and then give you life again , and then you will be returned to Him? (Surat al-Baqara, 2:28)
All people who have or will ever live are mortal. Everyone dies and is buried. Despite this obvious fact, however, most people avoid thinking about death and their subsequent resurrection. The Qur'an describes their situation, as follows:
They will ask: Are we to be restored to how we were when we have become perished, worm-eaten bones? (Surat an-Naziat, 79:10-11)
The Qur'an provides the most explicit answer to this popular delusion by proclaiming:
He makes likenesses of Us and forgets his own creation, asking: Who will give life to bones when they are decayed? Say: He Who made them in the first place will bring them back to life. He has total knowledge of each created thing. (Surah Ya Sin, 36:78-79)
As these verses indicate, Allah created humanity and granted different qualities to everyone. Indeed, down to his or her fingerprints, each person has unique characteristics. As our Creator, He can re-create each person in the very same manner as many times as He wills. Allah displays this coming resurrection each autumn, when nature begins to die and then actually experience a type of death during winter. Yet when spring comes, we see dry branches blossoming, nature being revived and becoming green all over. Furthermore, this resurrection has been happening without any interruption since time began. For Allah, resurrecting each person is as easy as this. The parallel features of these two resurrections are stated in several verses, as follows:
He brings forth the living from the dead and the dead from the living, and brings Earth to life after it was dead. In the same way, you too will be brought forth. (Surat ar-Rum, 30:19)
So look at the effect of Allah's mercy, how He brings the dead Earth back to life. Truly, He is the One Who brings the dead to life. He has power over all things. (Surat ar-Rum, 30:50)
Another meaning of the beautiful name Al-Baith is sending out Prophets. Allah sent Messengers to warn their people and bring good news in order to call them to the right path. He revealed books to some of his Messengers so that they could bring people out of the darkness of ignorance and into the light of true knowledge. No doubt, this is a great blessing of Allah to His servants. In the Qur'an, Allah relates that:
Mankind was a single community. Then Allah sent out Prophets bringing good news and giving warning, and with them He sent down the Book with truth to decide between people regarding their differences. (Surat al-Baqara, 2:213)
Allah showed great kindness to the believers when He sent a Messenger to them from among themselves to recite His Signs to them and to purify and teach them the Book and Wisdom, even though before that they were clearly misguided. (Surah Al Imran, 3:164)
www.harunyahya.com

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
--

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[IslamCity] Names of Allah: Al-'Azeez

2005-04-23 Thread Sadia





AL- AZEEZ The Almighty 
Do not imagine that Allah will break His promise to His Messengers. Allah is the Almighty , the Lord of Retribution. (Surah Ibrahim, 14:47) 
This name of Allah expresses that He will always triumph and that He can never be refuted, for only He has true power. Allah created the universe's order, all of its laws (both known and unknown), and all beings on Earth. In the face of Allah's infinite power, which clearly manifests itself in the universe, the feebleness of every created being and thing is obvious. All that is created can only exist, survive, and act if He commands so. 
No doubt, this feeling of feebleness also holds true for humanity. No matter how well-off, strong, and powerful people may be, each person is weak and helpless in Allah's sight. No possessions, money, or status can protect them from Allah's punishment; only those who surrender to Him, live by His orders, and strive to earn His consent will be protected. In the Qur'an, Allah promises to grant superiority to His loyal servants. 
Allah has written: I will be victorious, I and My Messengers. Allah is Most Strong, Almighty. (Surah al-Mujadala, 58:21) 
 and He has sent down the Furqan. Those who reject Allah's Signs will have a terrible punishment. Allah is Almighty, Lord of Retribution. (Surah Al Imran, 3:4) 
Allah bears witness that there is no deity but Him, as do the angels and the people of knowledge, upholding justice. There is no deity but Him, the Almighty, the All-Wise. (Surah Al Imran, 3:18) 
Do not be grieved by what they say. All might belongs to Allah. He is the All-Hearing, the All-Knowing. (Surah Yunus, 10:65) 
A pertinent hadith of Prophet Muhammad (saas) relates: 
A bedouin once said to the Prophet (saas): Teach me something to say. The Prophet (saas) replied: Say: There is no god but Allah, the One with no partner. Allah is the Greatest by far; much praise be to Him. The Lord of the Worlds be praised; and there is no power and no strength save in Allah the Almighty, the All-Wise.' (Sahih Muslim) 
www.harunyahya.com






"And if all the trees on the earth were pens and the sea (were ink wherewith to write), with seven seas behind it to add to its (supply), yet the Words of Allah would not be exhausted. Verily, Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise." 
Holy Qur'an, Luqman (31):27



***
{Invite (mankind, O Muhammad ) to the Way of your Lord (i.e. Islam) with wisdom (i.e. with the Divine Inspiration and the Qur'an) and fair preaching, and argue with them in a way that is better. Truly, your Lord knows best who has gone astray from His Path, and He is the Best Aware of those who are guided.} 
(Holy Quran-16:125)

{And who is better in speech than he who [says: My Lord is Allah (believes in His Oneness), and then stands straight (acts upon His Order), and] invites (men) to Allah's (Islamic Monotheism), and does righteous deeds, and says: I am one of the Muslims.} (Holy Quran-41:33)
 
The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim] 

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all. 
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah] 
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[IslamCity] Qur'an: Tafseer Surat Al-Qaari'ah

2005-04-12 Thread Sadia

Tafseer Surat Al-Qaariah
By Muhammad Alshareef
Just like we say, Yawm Al-Qiyaamah (the Day of Resurrection), Al-Qaariah is also a name for this horrific day. Qaariah means to strike something with an intense pounding. For this reason, many translators have chosen to explain this name Al-Qaariah in English as the Striking Day.
The theme of this Surah is only one: the end of the world as we know it. As we read this Surah, Allah taala gives us a small peek at what horror awaits humanity on this day. When one sincerely recites this Surah, the question that will repeat itself again and again shall be: how distracted have we let ourselves become?
Just look out the window and you will see oceans of people letting their life pass them by in oblivion of the nearing apocalypse. When someone comes to our door and starts pounding aggressively on it, we most likely will be taken by surprise and jump out of our seats to get ready. In fact, in Arabic its said: Qara al-Baab (note the same root as Qaariah), to mean he pounded on the door. May Allah protect us from being taken by surprise with no deeds ready for this striking.
In verse three, Allah taala before giving us a small peak at the horror that awaits says: "And what will make you know what the striking hour is?" There is nothing, absolutely nothing that would make us understand the horror we will taste on this day. The glance that we are getting in the next verses is simply a warning. Let us take heed dear brothers and sisters, for the warning has been given.

"It is a Day whereon mankind will be like moths scattered about. And the mountains will be like carded wool"
Now think about this: If ones scale is heavy on the Striking day, where would one end up heaven or hell? Hmm a heavy scale? Most people will answer that that person will be in Hell. It seems that we are programmed to just think about abstaining from bad deeds, but the message of striving to do good isnt so pronounced.
Allah taala says: "Then as for him whose balance will be heavy. He will live a pleasant life (in Paradise)"
Narrated Abu Hurayrah radi Allaahu anhu the Prophet, sal Allaahu alayhi wa sallam, said, (There are) two words which are dear to Ar-Rahmaan, easy upon the tongue to pronounce, (which shall weigh) heavy on the scale. They are: Subhaan Allahi wa bihamdihi, Subhaan Allaahi al-Adheem. - Bukhari

Subhaan Allah: Exalted be Allah over all that is falsely ascribed to him
Wa bihamdihi: and all thanks and praise belongs to Allah.
Subhaan Allah: Exalted be Allah over all that is falsely ascribed to him
Al-Adheem: (Allah) the Greatest.
From today, let us make it a part of our daily habit to frequently say this: Subhaan Allahi wa bihamdihi, Subhaan Allaahi al-Adheem. Allah loves it and its easy to say. And because of it, perhaps on this Striking day our scales will weigh down in our favor.

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
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[IslamCity] Names of Allah: Al-'Adheem

2005-04-10 Thread Sadia

AL- ADHEEM The All-Glorious
Everything in the heavens and everything in Earth belongs to Him. He is the Most High, the All-Glorious. (Surat ash-Shura, 42:4)
Allah's might and grandeur is surely beyond humanity's grasp. Yet, within the limits of their wisdom, people can still see and grasp His might. Indeed, the entire universe abounds with countless examples that indicate His greatness. A closer look at our own planet will make people feel His sublimity.
The heavens carrying clouds that weigh many tons, mountains rising thousands of meters in the air, oceans harboring millions of living beings, a lightening flash and the noise of thunder following it, and billions of living beings that have submitted to Allahall of these and countless other details are clear signs of Allah's existence.
To have a better grasp of our Lord's grandeur, let's move beyond the limits of our world and think: We live in an unbounded space, the universe, which contains billions of galaxies with countless billions of stars. We live in one of these galaxies on a planet called Earth, which rotates about its axis at a velocity of about 1.670 kilometers an hour. Just thinking on these vast figures make us realize that our existence in the universe is as insignificant as the existence of a dust particle on Earth.
As this example also reveals, people given to sincere contemplation can grasp the majesty of their Lord, Who creates billions of galaxies and holds all of them in His hand. In one verse, Allah informs us about His beautiful names:
Allah, there is no deity but Him, the Living, the Self-Sustaining. He is not subject to drowsiness or sleep. Everything in the heavens and Earth belongs to Him. Who can intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows what is before them and what is behind them, but they cannot grasp any of His knowledge, except for what He wills. His Footstool encompasses the heavens and Earth, and their preservation does not tire Him. He is the Most High, the All-Glorious. (Surat al-Baqara, 2:255)
www.harunyahya.com

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
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[IslamCity] Names of Allah: Al-'Alee

2005-04-04 Thread Sadia

AL- ALEE The Most High
It does not befit Allah to address any human being except by inspiration or from behind a veil, or He sends a messenger who then reveals by His permission whatever He wills. He is indeed Most High , All-Wise. (Surat ash-Shura, 42:51)
Allah introduces Himself to us: Allah, the Creator of all the worlds and the sole Sovereign of the universe, is the Most High and the Possessor of the heavens, Earth, and everything in between. There is no deity but Him. High is He, Exalted above all that they associate (with Him). He is the Sovereign, the All-Powerful, and the Lord of the Ways of Ascent. Allah is Self-Sufficient, above all need.
All of the beautiful names belong to Allah, for He is the Owner of infinite beauty and infinite sublimity. A person can know Him only to the extent that He introduces Himself, and can appreciate Him through the verses of the Qur'an. In one verse, Allah describes this name in the following terms:
Allah, there is no deity but Him, the Living, the Self-Sustaining. He is not subject to drowsiness or sleep. Everything in the heavens and Earth belongs to Him. Who can intercede with Him except by His permission? He knows what is before them and what is behind them, but they cannot grasp any of His knowledge, except for what He wills. His Footstool encompasses the heavens and Earth, and their preservation does not tire Him. He is the Most High, the Magnificent. (Surat al-Baqara, 2:255)

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
--

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[IslamCity] Names of Allah: Al-'Aleem

2005-03-31 Thread Sadia

AL- ALEEM The All-Knowing
Both East and West belong to Allah, so wherever you turn, the Face of Allah is there. Allah is All-Encompassing, All-Knowing. (Surat al-Baqara, 2:115)
After people begin to think, they start to learn and, over time, accumulate more and more knowledge. Some specialize in certain fields, such as physics, philosophy, or history. All of this knowledge relates to the verb to know, as we understand it. However, this verb also has a dimension that is far beyond humanity's grasp: how Allah knows things.
Allah, being the Creator, holds the knowledge of the heavens, Earth, and every being in between, as well as of all the laws regulating the universe and anything that happens, regardless of time or place. Moreover, His knowledge is boundless, for He knows the names of all new-born babies at any moment, every leaf falling from every tree, what will happen to each star in each galaxy, whatever happens in space at any moment, what is hidden in every living thing's DNA, and an infinite number of other things.
We must always keep the following fact in mind: In addition to what has been mentioned above, Allah knows all of our thoughts and our most secret acts. We assume that we alone are aware of our feelings, thoughts, or distress. But this is a delusion, for Allah, Who holds complete control over every point of the universe, knows what is in each person's mind and everything else. Indeed, the Qur'an informs us about Allah's infinite knowledge:
You will not attain true goodness until you give of what you love. Whatever you give away, Allah knows it. (Surah Al Imran, 3:92)
Do you not see that everyone in the heavens and Earth glorifies Allah, as do the birds with their outspread wings? Each one knows its prayer and glorification. Allah knows what they do. (Surat an-Nur, 24:41)
And the sun runs to its resting place. That is the decree of the Almighty, the All-Knowing. (Surah Ya Sin, 36:38)
See how they wrap themselves round, trying to conceal their feelings from Him! No, indeed! When they wrap their garments round themselves, He knows what they keep secret and what they make public. He knows what their hearts contain. (Surah Hud, 11:5)
But they will never ever long for it, because of what they have done. Allah knows the wrongdoers. (Surat al-Baqara, 2:95)
You did not kill them; it was Allah Who killed them. You did not throw when you threw; it was Allah Who threw: so He might test the believers with this excellent trial from Him. Allah is All-Hearing, All-Knowing. (Surat al-Anfal, 8:17)
www.harunyahya.com

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
--

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[IslamCity] Names of Allah: Ahkam Al-Hakimeen

2005-03-29 Thread Sadia

AHKAM AL-HAKIMEEN The Most Just Judge
Is Allah not the Most Just Judge? (Surat at-Tin, 95:8)
Allah passes judgment on each matter and concludes them. All events evolve and develop upon His command and wish. Each of His judgments contains many hidden divine purposes. However, most people do not really understand His commands, for, given their limited intelligence, their ability to do so is also limited. Furthermore, Allah is infinitely wise, exalted above time and space, and the One Who created and bound humanity to these concepts. A person can never know what will happen the next day or even in an hour. When Allah gives a command, however, He has total knowledge of all of its consequences, regardless of time or place. Consequently, Allah creates everything in compliance with His plan and for a divine purpose.
But unbelievers can never understand Allah's purposes, for they base their worldview on certain causes and then think that everything evolves randomly and coincidentally. Therefore, they fail to understand that Allah controls everything. Believers, however, strive to grasp the divine purposes in Allah's judgments and comprehend that He gives the best judgments. In the Qur'an, Allah commands the following:
Follow what has been revealed to you, and be steadfast until Allah's judgment comes. He is the Best of Judges. (Surah Yunus, 10:109)
Nuh called out to his Lord and said: My Lord, my son is one of my family. Your promise is surely the truth, and You are the Most Just Judge. (Surah Hud, 11:45)
www.harunyahya.com

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
--

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[IslamCity] Names of Allah: Al - Akhir

2005-03-26 Thread Sadia





AL-AKHIR The Last; The One Who Exists After Everything Else Perishes 
He is the First and the Last , the Outward and the Inward. He has knowledge of all things. (Surat al-Hadid, 57:3) 
Allah created the universe from nothing and, ultimately, will return it to its initial state and destroy it. Nothing is immortal, for all living beings come into existence for a predetermined period of time and then dieeverything, that is, except Allah, Who is the First and the Last and therefore without beginning or end. 
Allah, the Creator of life and time, is not affected by any of matter's characteristics. Given that He is infinite, He will exist for all eternity, existed in the infinite past, and is unaffected by time and space. This fact is stressed in the Qur'an, as follows: 
Everyone on it will pass away; but the Face of your Lord will remain, Master of Majesty and Generosity. (Surat ar-Rahman, 55:26-27) 
www.harunyahya.com






"And if all the trees on the earth were pens and the sea (were ink wherewith to write), with seven seas behind it to add to its (supply), yet the Words of Allah would not be exhausted. Verily, Allah is All-Mighty, All-Wise." 
Holy Qur'an, Luqman (31):27



***
{Invite (mankind, O Muhammad ) to the Way of your Lord (i.e. Islam) with wisdom (i.e. with the Divine Inspiration and the Qur'an) and fair preaching, and argue with them in a way that is better. Truly, your Lord knows best who has gone astray from His Path, and He is the Best Aware of those who are guided.} 
(Holy Quran-16:125)

{And who is better in speech than he who [says: My Lord is Allah (believes in His Oneness), and then stands straight (acts upon His Order), and] invites (men) to Allah's (Islamic Monotheism), and does righteous deeds, and says: I am one of the Muslims.} (Holy Quran-41:33)
 
The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim] 

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all. 
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah] 
--

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[IslamCity] Names of Allah: Al - 'Afuw

2005-03-24 Thread Sadia

AL- AFUW The Pardoner
Whether you reveal a good act or keep it hidden, or pardon an evil act, Allah is Ever-Pardoning, All-Powerful. (Surat an-Nisa', 4:149)
People are fallible beings who may at any time think erroneously, make a wrong decision, or display a flawed attitude. But Allah, Who created humanity and is fully aware of these mistakes, forgives them. If He were not so forgiving, no soul would ever attain Paradise . Indeed, Allah calls attention to this fact, as follows:
If Allah were to punish people for their wrong actions, not a single creature would be left upon Earth, but He defers them until a predetermined time. When their specified time arrives, they cannot delay it for a single hour or bring it forward. (Surat an-Nahl, 16:61)
Yet we need to remember that Allah only forgives His sincere servants who turn to Him in repentance. Thus, those desiring His forgiveness must be sincere and resolute in their repentance. Allah makes it clear that He will not forgive those who repent but then return to their former ways without feeling any true regret. In one verse, Allah states the following:
Allah only accepts the repentance of those who do evil in ignorance and then quickly repent after doing it. Allah turns toward such people. Allah is All-Knowing, All-Wise. (Surat an-Nisa', 4:17)
www.harunyahya.com

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
--

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[IslamCity] Names of Allah: Al - 'Adl

2005-03-22 Thread Sadia

AL- ADL
The Just, The Equitable
O You who believe! Show integrity for the sake of Allah, bearing witness with justice. Do not let hatred for a people incite you into not being just. Be just. That is closer to piety. Have fear [and awareness] of Allah. Allah is aware of what you do. ( Surat al-Ma'ida, 5:8)
Allah is the most just judge. As His order encompasses the universe, He will show His justice to His servants both in this world and beyond. All the acts of Allah, Who is All-Seeing, All-Knowing, and All-Aware, are for a divine purpose and are just.
Allah will judge all of each person's deeds according to His justice. Allah informs us that those who engage in violence will be punished and that even a single good word will be rewarded. He will manifest His infinite justice in the Hereafter.
The difficulties that unbelievers make for Prophets and believers, as well as their slanderous accusations and sins, will not remain unanswered. All of these difficulties, which raise believers' ranks in Paradise , lead unbelievers to the lowest level of the Fire. On the Day of Judgment, Allah will set up the Just Balance, and no soul will be wronged in any way. Allah will call them to account by ending the time that He has granted them. Given that Allah, the All-Knowing, keeps His promise, all people will see the consequences of their wrong actions in the Hereafter. Thus, unbelievers will be punished severely, while those who remained true to Allah will be rewarded most bountifully. In one verse, Allah states the following:
Those who pledge their allegiance to you [the Prophet] pledge allegiance to Allah. Allah's hand is over their hands. He who breaks his pledge only breaks it against himself. But as for him who fulfils the contract he has made with Allah, We will pay him an immense reward. ( Surat al-Fath, 48:10)
There is an important point to consider here: While pondering over His justice, do not compare it with the human concept of justice, for a faithless person, while passing judgment, may well comply with his whims and desires, remain under the influence of his feelings, or forget what has been done. Most importantly, one never knows what is in the other party's mind. But Allah, Who never errs or forgets, has assigned angels for every person in order to observe and record each of their acts and thoughts. In brief, Allah holds each person's soul in His hand. The Qur'an also reveals that our Lord, Who gives the best judgment, is infinitely just:
On the Day We summon every people with their records, those who are given their Book in their right hand will read their Book and will not be wronged by even the smallest speck. ( Surat al-Isra', 17:71)
In the Hereafter, Allah will pay back all of the wrongdoing and plots hatched against believers. In this life, He may grant the unbelievers many blessings (e.g., wealth and possessions), yet these will only lead them to more evil. In the Qur'an, Allah states that believers must not be attracted to such blessings, for when compared with what awaits them in the Hereafter, the benefits of this short life are insignificant, especially when the infinite punishment of Hell awaits unbelievers.
In the Hereafter, each person's real abode, every soul will find itself confronted with all of its good deeds. Allah will manifest His justice in Hell and Paradise for all eternity. Ultimately, Allah will separate those who believe in Him from those who do not.
Say: Our Lord will bring us all together and then will judge between us with the truth. He is the Just Decider, the All-Knowing. (Surah Saba , 34:26)
Allah commands believers to be just as follows:
Allah does not forbid you from being good to those who have not fought you in the religion or driven you from your homes, or from being just toward them. Allah loves those who are just. ( Surat al-Mumtahana, 60:8)
Allah commands you to return to their owners the things you hold on trust and, when you judge between people, to judge with justice. How excellent is what Allah exhorts you to do! Allah is All-Hearing, All-Seeing. ( Surat an-Nisa', 4:58)
They are people who listen to lies and consume ill-gotten gains. If they come to you, you can either judge between them or turn away from them. If you turn away from them, they cannot harm you in any way. But if you do judge, judge between them justly. Allah loves the just. ( Surat al-Ma'ida, 5:42)
www.harunyahya.com

[IslamCity] Action Alert: Help Defend Family, Marriage, and the Unborn at the UN

2005-03-02 Thread Sadia

http://www.islamonline.net/english/in_depth/doha_conference/views/08.shtml

Help Defend Family, Marriage, and the Unborn at the UNUrgent Action Alert

By Ælfwine Mischler*
Editor, IslamOnline.net

February 28, 2005

IslamOnline has received an urgent message from World Family Alliance, a coalition of pro-family non-government organizations (NGOs). You can help protect family, marriage, and the unborn by e-mailing key UN ambassadors to encourage them to support an important provision currently under negotiation at the United Nations. Your action is needed immediately.
Representatives from UN member nations are meeting in New York February 28March 11, 2005 to review the implementation of the Beijing Platform for Action and Beijing +5. These documents, while they contain some good provisions, also contain items that go against Islamic Shari`ah.
UN Ambassadors need to hear from people everywhere that the world does not want the United Nations to become embroiled in unproductive controversial negotiations over homosexual and abortion rights at the current session of the Commission on the Status of Women. (See below for additional background.)
Through the World Family Alliance Web site, you can easily send a pre-written e-mail to 129 key UN ambassadors with only a single mouse click. These ambassadors have either supported pro-family provisions in the past or have not yet declared a position on these issues. Just click here to make a critical difference in this battle.
What happens at the United Nations can have a direct and negative impact on efforts to protect marriage, the family, and children in our own countries! This is because the documents and agreements reached at these conferences become part of international law, norms, and standards that shape and influence national laws and policies worldwide.
The anti-family, anti-children forces understand this, which is why they are constantly working to slip things into these international documents and agreements that will help achieve their goals at the national level. They count on the fact that most people who are dedicated to defending marriage, the family, and children in their own countries do not understand the power of international consensus documents.
But ordinary people like you have helped to stop them before!
For example, in just the past year, United Families International (the coordinator of World Family Alliance) supporters flooded key UN missions with e-mails that helped to successfully defeat the sexual orientation human rights provision at the Human Rights Commission. E-mails also helped to achieve recognition of the Doha Declaration on the Family by the UN General Assembly.
Please help do it again!
Please take a couple of minutes to help defend marriage, family, and children at the international level during this critical meeting.
We must be constantly vigilant to these threats and be prepared to meet them every time. The future of marriage, the family, and children in all countries depends upon success in these critical battles.
You can help even more by forwarding the url of this article to as many other people as you can who will also take a few minutes to protect marriage, the family, and children.
Brief Background
Starting on Monday, February 28 and ending March 12, the United Nations will be negotiating a document at the Commission on the Status of Women (CSW) that will build on two prior womens rights documents, the Beijing Platform for Action and Beijing +5. The negotiations on these two landmark womens documentsone ten years ago and one five years agobecame fierce battlegrounds over homosexual and abortion rights.
After intense late-night battles the pro-family lobby defeated their worst proposals five and ten years ago, but if we do not stop them now, the past pro-family victories will have been for naught.
Last week the anti-family forces working to influence the CSW tried to force the conclusion of negotiations behind the scenes before the official conference had even begun. They wanted to pass a non-negotiable conference declaration that would rubber-stamp everything in the Beijing documents.
But the pro-family lobby caught them. And now it has to stop the current attempts to force the anti-family, anti-child agenda on the world.
Fortunately, at the past weeks preliminary negotiations, the US delegation presented a strong proposal (also supported by the Vatican) that would prevent the United Nations from using these past womens documents and the current one under negotiation to create new international rights harmful to families.
On February 28, the real battle begins with abortion rights at the forefront, and it is predicted that the same battle over homosexual rights will emerge if the US lead proposal is not adopted.
The pro-family lobby will not give up its efforts to stop these attacks on children and the family.
But it needs your help.
A number of UN member countries have not yet shown

[IslamCity] The Gates of Paradise

2005-02-16 Thread Sadia






The Gates of Paradise
Dr. `Abdullah al-ShimemeriDescriptions of Paradise from the Qur'aan and Hadeeth 
"Gardens of perpetual bliss - they shall enter them, as well as the righteous among their fathers, their spouses and their offspring. And angels shall enter upon them every gate." [ar-Ra`d, 13:23] 
"This is a reminder. Verily, for the righteous is a beautiful place of [final] return - gardens of eternity, whose doors will [always] be open to them." [Saad, 38:49-50] 
"And those who feared their Lord will be led to the Garden in crowds, until behold, they arrive there. Its gates will be opened, and its keepers will say, 'Peace be upon you!' Well have you done, do enter it, abiding [in it] eternally." [Az-Zumar, 39:73] 
Sahl bin Sa`d reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 
"Paradise has eight gates, and one of them is called ar-Rayyaan, through which none will enter but those who observe fasting." [al-Bukhaari] 
Abu Hurayrah narrated that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: 
"Whoever spends two things in the way of Allah will be called from the gates of Paradise and will be addressed, 'Oh slave of Allah, here is prosperity!' So whoever was among the people who used to offer their prayers will be called from the gate of the prayer; and whoever was among the people who used to participate in jihaad will be called from the gate of jihaad; and whoever was among those who used to observer fasts will be called from the gate of ar-Rayyaan; and whoever was among those who used to give charity will be called from the gate of charity." Abu Bakr said, "Let my parents be sacrificed for you, oh Allah's Apostle! No distress or need will befall him who will be called from those gates. Will there be anyone who will be called from all these gates?" The Prophet (peace be upon him) replied, "Yes, and I hope you will be one of them." [al-Bukhaari] 
`Uqba ibn `Aamir said: 
"We were entrusted with the task of tending the camels. On my turn, when I came back in the evening after grazing them in the pastures, I found Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) stand and address the people. I heard these words of his, 'If any Muslim performs ablution well, then stands and prays two rak`ahs, setting about them with his heart as well as his face, Paradise will be guaranteed to him.' I said, 'What a fine thing this is!' A narrator who was before me said, 'The first was even better than this.' When I cast a glance, I saw that it was `Umar who said, 'I see that you have just come and observed. If anyone among you performs the ablution, completes the ablution well and says, "I testify that there is no god but Allah and that Muhammad is the servant of Allah and His Messenger," then the eight gates of Paradise will be opened for him and he may enter by whichever of them he wishes." [Muslim] 
Abu Hurayrah narrated that the Messenger (peace be upon him) said: 
"The gates of Paradise will be opened on Monday and on Thursdays, and every servant [of Allah] who associates nothing with Allah will be forgiven, except for the man who has a grudge against his brother. [About them] it will be said, 'Delay these two until they are reconciled. Delay these two until they are reconciled. Delay these two until they are reconciled.'" [Muslim, Maalik, Abu Dawood] 
http://islaam.com/Article.aspx?id=209


***
{Invite (mankind, O Muhammad ) to the Way of your Lord (i.e. Islam) with wisdom (i.e. with the Divine Inspiration and the Qur'an) and fair preaching, and argue with them in a way that is better. Truly, your Lord knows best who has gone astray from His Path, and He is the Best Aware of those who are guided.} 
(Holy Quran-16:125)

{And who is better in speech than he who [says: My Lord is Allah (believes in His Oneness), and then stands straight (acts upon His Order), and] invites (men) to Allah's (Islamic Monotheism), and does righteous deeds, and says: I am one of the Muslims.} (Holy Quran-41:33)
 
The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim] 

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all. 
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah] 
--

All views expressed herein belong to the individuals concerned and do not in any way reflect the official views of IslamCity unless sanctioned or approved otherwise. 

If your mailbox clogged with mails from IslamCity, you may wish to get a daily digest of emails by logging-on to http://www.yahoogroups.com to change your mail delivery settings or email the moderators at [EMAIL PROTECTED] with the title change to daily digest.

[IslamCity] Action Alert! Attack on Imam Kavakci!

2005-02-13 Thread Sadia

On February 5, 2005 Jeffery Weiss, a staff writer for the Dallas Morning-News, wrote an article in which he implies that Dr. Yusuf Ziya Kavakci, the Imam for the Dallas Central Mosque in Richardson, promotes anti-Christian and anti-Jewish sentiment amongst our community. The article was then followed up by an editorial by Bob Mong, editor of the Morning News, on February 7, 2005.As all of you know, Dr. Kavakci is a well respected leader in our community and has never been quoted as riling up such hatred, whether it be during a Jummah khutbah or an Eid khutbah.
This is not the first time something the muslim community has been faced with such accusations, and wil not be the last. This is obviously nothing to be alarmed about, we should stay calm but firm. Allah is definitly testing our unity. So stay strong, afterhardship, comes ease. :)

So your proably thinking..."Ok..sooo...what can I do?" Well here ya go!

WHAT YOU CAN DO: ACTION ITEMS

1.FLOOD THEIR IMBOXES!!!

2.BLOCK THEIR PHONE LINES!!! Call between 10a-12p on Monday February 13th

The following is a list of the people to contact. Remember, please be professional.
Bob Mong - Editor214.977.6670[EMAIL PROTECTED]
Jeffery Weiss - Writer/Religion Section(the writer of the original article)214-977-8738[EMAIL PROTECTED]Sharon Grigsby - Deputy Editor/Editorial Opinion214 977-8494[EMAIL PROTECTED]
I encourage EVERYONE to send this action alert to the editor of the Morning News. Below is a letter you can copy and paste into your own email. You may also want to copy and paste the body of the letter into an email and forward it to your family and friends!!

Dear Sir,

The article published in the Dallas Morning News on February 5 and the editorial related to it published on February 7, 2005 regarding the religious practices of the Islamic Association of North Texas and its spiritual leader (Imam) was an outrage. The implication that our organization and religious leader promotes anti-American, Jewish and Christian hatred has absolutely no foundation.

Our Imam regularly attends interfaith gatherings and addresses Christians and Jews alike as brothers and friends. He refers likewise to them in his sermons at our mosque. We have seen thousands and thousands of non-Muslims visit us over the last few years to learn about our religion without incident. Would this be possible if we hated them?

The mere fact that the imam and the management interacts continuously with the people of other faiths nullifies your accusations. I have attended this mosque for years and have never heard a word of hatred promoted by the Imam or any leader of this institution. Furthermore, I have never seen any published materials distributed, offered, displayed or discussed that promotes hate of any people or this country.

The Muslim community of North Texas is outraged and tired of the continuous anti-Islamic and anti-Muslim rhetoric that is being printed by your newspaper with monotonous regularity. It is time that this comes to an end.

Sincerely,

Ahlam Said

"Go to college, gain some knowledge, stick it through. If they can make penicillin out of molded bread, they'll make something out of you." -Imam Zaid Shakir, ISNA-South Central Dallas Regional Conference 2004

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
--

All views expressed herein belong to the individuals concerned and do not in any way reflect the official views of IslamCity unless sanctioned or approved otherwise.

[IslamCity] Six Rights of a Muslim Upon a Muslim

2005-02-08 Thread Sadia

SIX RIGHTS OF A MUSLIM UPON A MUSLIM

Allahs Messenger (peace be upon him) said: "No one of you shall become a true believer until he desires for his brother what he desires for himself." (Bukhari) Surely the best way for us to please our brother is to place him high in our estimation and do for him what we would like for ourselves. The Prophet gave us comprehensive direction on how to sustain brotherhood. He said: "There are six rights of a Muslim upon a Muslim:Ø
When you meet him, greet him; With a warm smile, a friendly face and As-Salaam Alaykum is the best way to meet a brother. We must avoid picking and choosing whom we confer this basic right upon. All Muslims regardless of their social status and position in society should be afforded this "gateway" into our personal space. The Salaam is the best of icebreakers as it immediately
brings down the barriers that we unconsciously erect around ourselves to shield us from alien invasion"Øwhen he invites you, respond to him; When a Muslim brother invites you to a celebration, you are obliged to go, even if he didn't attend the Eid celebration you had last year. Accepting an invitation for a wedding celebration or the naming of a child is
about sharing in the joys of a brother as well as joining with other Muslims in a social gathering.Ø when he seeks counsel, give him advice; When a brother comes to you with a problem, seeking advice, give him what he requires even if it means that you are undermining yourself in the process. Remember, you desire the best for him, don't you? Be sincere in
your advice. Never take what has been told to you in confidence to another person except to demonstrate a point; even then, his identity must not be disclosed or alluded to.Øwhen he sneezes and praises Allah, say to him: `May Allah have mercy on you (Yarhamuk-Allah)' . When a Muslim sneezes, yawns, lets one go, or even when he trips and he remembers to praise Allah, we must respond to him with a prayer for Allah to have mercy on him. If we find a brother either negligent or ignorant of the need to praise Allah in all things, then we must set him right as far as his responsibility to himself and to others. The lesson is: praise Allah in all condition and appreciate the one who does this!Ø when he is sick,
visit him When you go and visit a sick brother, take a small gift along with you that will help lift his spirits. If you are unable to afford a gift, then ensure that you go armed with words of encouragement and hope from the Qur'an and Sunnah. Don't be put off by the fact that the brother is much more learned than you you are there to lift his spirits, not to compete against him. Pray for him and let him pray for you too.Ø and when he dies, follow his funeral Attending the last rites of a brother is of utmost importance. Speaking well of him and seeking forgiveness for him will ease his condition in the grave with regards to questioning, bliss and punishment. Upon following him to the grave, one should now not turn his back on (abandon) him. Not abandoning him after his death is to take care of his families, remembering him in duaa regularly, and doing sadaqah (charity) on his behalf.
Source: http://www.weneedtounite.com/six.htm

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
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[IslamCity] The Many Guises of Backbiting

2005-02-05 Thread Sadia

The Many Guises of Backbiting
Gems Jewels © Darussalam 2003
Shaikhul-Islam Ibn Taimiyyah said that there are those from the people that backbite or listen to backbiting, and they do so to please the company they keep, with the awareness that the victim is likely to be innocent of some of the things that are uttered about him. Often such offenders feel that if they were to attempt to end such conversation in a gathering, their presence might become unwelcome or burdensome.
There are many methods and guises that are employed when one mentions another in a negative way.
Under the pretense of being informative, one could say that it is not one's habit to mention others, except for the sake of relating another's condition to someone.
Or one could state that by Allah, indeed so-and-so is one to be pitied, thereby showing superiority over one who is to be rejected.
Another method might be to say that so-and-so is a good person; however, he has such and such qualities. Again, one is justified in revealing another's faults.
One could also simply state that we should forget so-and-so, and make supplication for their forgiveness as well as our own, intending only to belittle the one that was mentioned.
In reality, all these tactics are designed to try to deceive Allah (the Exalted) and to please the creation; and in reality, the many that follow these methods only serve to deceive themselves.
Then there are those that backbite to raise their own status.
When they hear of someone's error, they employ words like, "Had I prayed for so-and-so last night in my prayer, the news of their sin would not have reached my ears."
Again, when a person states of another that he lacks understanding in a matter, the implication is personal superiority for the one that mentions the other's shortcoming.
There are also those that couple jealousy with backbiting - the act of being critical or belittling to those that are praised in the company of others.
Some people also backbite for the sake of humor, playfulness and lightheartedness. A person finds a certain amount of satisfaction from being appreciated for his story-telling abilities; speaking ill of someone in a humorous fashion adds flavor to a tale.
Others engage in backbiting by showing surprise and amazement at another's actions: "'How is it that someone could do such a thing?"
Yet others mention people and their actions with the pretense of sympathy for their actions or misfortunes. In reality, the one who backbites actually finds contentment and satisfaction at the mention of others and their misdeeds.
Another form of backbiting is relating someone's misfortune to their enemies, so that they, too, may find pleasure in putting them down.
From these examples, one can surmise that backbiting pertains to a disease of the heart... May Allah save us from this most evil of actions and protect us from its temptations.
http://islaam.com/Article.aspx?id=636

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
--

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[IslamCity] Rumsfeld's days are numbered?

2004-11-29 Thread Sadia

November 28, 2004 Neocons join the lynch mob for `arrogant' RumsfeldSarah Baxter, New Yorkhttp://www.timesonline.co.uk/article/0,,2089-1378195,00.htmlTHE American defence secretary, Donald Rumsfeld, should be sacked, according to a growing chorus of conservative commentators who want him replaced by a figure with wider appeal. In a seemingly innocuous Thanksgiving message to readers last week, William Kristol, the neoconservative editor of The Weekly Standard magazine, slipped in a surprise demand for Rumsfeld's dismissal.
"What remains to be done is to announce new leadership for the department of defence," wrote Kristol. "This, surely, would be an important opportunity for a strong, Bush-doctrine-supporting outsider, someone who of course would be a team player, but someone who could also work with the military and broaden support for the president's policy."
Boiled down, this meant: almost anybody but Rumsfeld, whose performance has not always matched his swagger. His failure to install enough troops on the ground after last year's invasion of Iraq has upset American generals and alienated supporters of the war.
"I am allergic to Rumsfeld," said Ralph Peters, a former lieutenant-colonel and robust media champion of the war on terror. "We did a great thing in Iraq, but we did it very badly.
"He is an extremely talented man but he has the tragic flaw of hubris. His arrogance is unbearable. My friends in uniform just hate him."
The calls for Rumsfeld to be dismissed have intensified since the departure was announced of his cabinet rival, Colin Powell, the secretary of state. With the liberal-leaning Powell being the first to go, conservatives no longer see the need to hold back their opinions.
The defence secretary's job security has not been enhanced by allegations that he lobbied to scupper the intelligence bill in Congress last week against President George W Bush's wishes. Rumsfeld made little secret of his opposition to the bill's plan for the national intelligence director to be given sweeping powers over the $40 billion intelligence budget, 80% of which is currently controlled by the Pentagon.
Bush and Vice-President Dick Cheney, who first worked with Rumsfeld in the 1970s, are known to feel loyal to the architect of the swift military victories in Afghanistan and initially in Iraq. There is a feeling that he deserves to remain in place until after the Iraqi elections in January.
Unlike Powell, Rumsfeld lacks an obvious replacement. Robert Novak, the right-wing pundit, believes Paul Wolfowitz, the neoconservative deputy defence secretary, is a "good possibility" who has been subjected to a "healthy dose of reality" about the limits of American power.

Allah is Near
"When my servants question you about Me, tell them that I am near. I answerthe prayer of every suppliant when he calls on Me. Therefore, they shouldrespond to Me and put their trust in Me, so that they may be rightly guided."
The Holy Quran, 2:186

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: By Allah, if Allah guides one person by you, it is better for you than the best types of camels. [al-Bukhaaree, Muslim]

The prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) also said, Whoever calls to guidance will have a reward similar to the reward of the one who follows him, without the reward of either of them being lessened at all.
[Muslim, Ahmad, Aboo Daawood, an-Nasaa'ee, at-Tirmidhee, Ibn Maajah]
--

All views expressed herein belong to the individuals concerned and do not in any way reflect the official views of IslamCity unless sanctioned or approved otherwise.

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[IslamCity] US casualties in Iraq skyrocket!

2004-11-29 Thread Sadia

http://www.juancole.com/2004/11/25000-us-casualties-in-iraq-9-of.html
Friday, November 26, 200425,000 US Casualties in Iraq; 9% of Troops Put in Hospital or Killed Over 2000 Iraqis Killed in Fallujah
CBS has elicited from the Pentagon the real figure of US casualties in Iraq, which is more like 25,000. That number includes the 1230 or so killed and the 9300 classified as "wounded in battle," but also 17,000 classified as non-combat sick or injured, of whom 80 percent do not return to their units in Iraq. Although some of the 17,000 are victims of disease, some unspecified number have actually been injured as a result of being in a theater of war. If you have an "accident" while guns and bombs are going off all around you, is it really an "accident"?
The Editor and Publisher piece blames the "US press" for under-reporting these figures. But obviously it is the Department of Defense that constructed the categories that allowed some war heroes to be shunted off as victims of "accidents." So it isn't the press's fault. It is Donald Rumsfeld's fault (and, sure, Karl Rove and George W. Bush, the Teflon Twins).
The Iraqi Defense Ministry has admitted that 2085 Iraqis were killed in the course of the US assault on Fallujah. The same ministry, along with US military spokesmen, keep denying that any civilians were killed.
Personally, I would take all these statistics with a big grain of salt. The US has bombed so many buildings in Fallujah in recent weeks that there must be bodies still in the rubble. Will the rubble be combed for dead bodies? And, even if, as some US military personnel have suggested, 95% of civilians had fled, that would be on the order of 15,000 persons. How likely is it that a massive military assault on residential neighborhoods killed none of them?
Some un-embedded wire service reports suggest a different picture, saying that Fallujah survivors :
"charged, in interviews, that as well as deaths from bombs and artillery shells, a large number of people, including children, were killed by American snipers. Some of the killings took place in the build-up to the assault on the rebel stronghold, and at least in one case, that of the death of a family of seven, including a 3-month-old baby, American authorities have admitted responsibility and offered compensation. Men of military age were particularly vulnerable. But there are also accounts of young children, women and old men being killed.
Mere common sense, it seems to me, makes these reports more credible than blithe claims of no "collateral damage" at all. On the other hand, Iraqi guerrillas are perfectly capable of manufacturing US war crimes where none existed, as part of their own propaganda war. That there were almost certainly civilian casualties does not in and of itself tell us whether the military assault was necessary, or whether it was conducted as it should have been.
The fog of information war thrown up by the Allawi government, the US military, and the guerrilla sympathizers, however, does make the episode difficult to judge morally and ethically. In a democracy, such judgments are necessary, so that there is something radically wrong with the system, when we ordinary Americans don't have a realistic idea of how many US troops have been harmed in the prosecution of this war, and likewise have no clear idea of the human cost of an operation like Fallujah II.
The irony of the twenty-first century Information Age is that the American public is uninformed as never before about the most crucial information in our lives. The new Age of Ignorance amidst information riches is made possible precisely because modern means of communication lend themselves to manipulation by wealthy, powerful forces that understand how to make an emotional impact that will obscure the real issues. This observation is as true of the Baath Party as it is of the Republican Party, as true of al-Jazeerah as it is of Fox Cable News.
The difficulties of political interpretation are, it seems to me, underscored by the interview that Majid Musa, deputy speaker of the Iraqi National Council and leader of the Iraqi Communist Party, gave to Egyptian Radio (BBC World Monitoring, Nov. 23).
The Egyptian interview asked what the participants at the Sharm El Sheikh conference could be expected to agree on.
"Majid: I believe that there is a common ground and that a consensus is possible. The continuation of the unstable conditions, the deteriorating security situation in Iraq and the activities of terrorists and saboteurs will not be restricted within Iraqi borders. The impact of those crimes and this terrorism will spread throughout the region, unless we take timely measures and cooperate to ward off such dangers." He added that the issue of the exact shape of Iraqi federalism was an internal affair.
The Cairo interviewer asked him about a deadline for withdrawal of US troops. (France had pressed for a deadline of Dec. 31, 2005, for this withdrawal, but the other Sharm

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