The Ramadhan Blog

Hadith

2011-11-05T13:49:00.000+01:00

عن عائشة رضي الله عنه قالت : إن رسول الله صلى الله عليه وسلم قال : ( ما مِن يوم أكثر من أن يعتق الله فيه عبداً من النار من يوم عرفة وإنه

ليدنو ثم يباهي بهم الملائكة فيقول : ما أراد هؤلاء ) رواه مسلم ( 1348 ) .

The Kaa´ba´s Kiswa

2011-10-31T13:48:00.000+01:00

The Kaa’ba is covered by a black cloth known as ‘Kiswa’, which is produced and changed every year. It takes place on Dul Hijjah 9 of every year

The Kiswa Factory was built in Makkah about 74 years ago by the Kingdom’s founder King Abdul Aziz. A new kiswa is made every year by Saudis who work at the factory.

The Kiswa is composed of three parts: a Sitaar (curtain) of the Kaaba door, an inner lining curtain inside the Kaaba and a Hizam (the belt). It is manufactured at the Kiswa factory, which is located in Makkah’s Umm Al-Joud suburb. More than 240 people work in the factory.

Masha’Allaah

Expert artisans embroider the cloth with gold and silver threads to create calligraphy using the verses from the Qur’an.

The Kiswa consists of 47 pieces of cloth and each piece is 14 meters long and 101 cm broad. The Kiswa is wrapped around the Kaaba and fixed to the ground with copper rings.

Expert artisan embroider the cloth with gold and silver threads

The black kiswa is made with 670 kg of pure silk, and 150 kg of gold and silver thread that is used for sewing the Qur’anic verses. It is 658 square meters in size and consists of 47 pieces, each 14 meters long and 95 cm wide. It costs about SR16.8 million ($4.5 million).

♦—–♦—–♦

Remaining steadfast after ramadan?

2011-09-04T18:55:00.002+02:00

Bismillah. assalam alaykom wa rahmatullah wa barakatuh

Ramadhan is over. But what happens now? how do you persist in the good deeds done previously?
And what should the fasting in ramadhan have done for you? This blessed month went away as quickly as it came. We had hardly starting to feel the hunger until it was time for the Eid prayer.
This beautiful text from fawzaan may help you a little bit. This blog continues troughout the year, with beneficial reminders, posts and videos.

take care, fi amanillah // Muslimah

Taken from www.salafipublications.com

Remaining steadfast after Ramadaan
Author: 'Abdullaah Ibn Saalih Al-Fawzaan
Source: Ahaadeeth As-Siyaam: Ahkaam wa Adaab (pg. 155-157)

Sufyaan Ibn 'Abdillaah t said: "O Messenger of Allaah , tell me something about Islaam of which I will not ask anyone else besides you (after that)." He said: "Say: 'I believe in Allaah' and then be steadfast (upon that)." [1]

This hadeeth is proof that the servant is obligated, after having Eemaan in Allaah, to persevere and be steadfast upon obeying Him by performing the obligatory acts and avoiding the prohibited ones. This is achieved by following the Straight Path, which is the firm Religion, without drifting away from it to the right or to the left.

If a Muslim lived through Ramadaan and spent its days in fasting and its nights in prayer, and in that month he accustomed himself to doing acts of good, then he must continue to remain upon this obedience to Allaah at all times (after that). This is the true state of the servant (‘abd), for indeed, the Lord of the months is One and He is ever watchful and witnessing His servants at all times.

Indeed, steadfastness after Ramadaan and the rectification of one's statements and actions are the greatest signs that one has gained benefit from the month of Ramadaan and that he struggled in obedience. They are tokens of acceptance and signs of success.

Furthermore, the deeds of a servant do not come to an end with the end of a month and the beginning of another. Rather they continue and extend until one reaches death, for Allaah says: “And worship your Lord until the certainty (i.e. death) comes to you.” [2]

If the fasting of Ramadaan comes to an end, then indeed the voluntary fasting is still prescribed throughout the entire year, and all praise is due to Allaah. If standing in prayer at night during Ramadaan comes to an end, then indeed, the entire year is a time for performing the night prayer. And if the Zakaat-ul-Fitr comes to an end, then there is still the Zakaah that is obligatory as well as the voluntary charity that lasts the whole year. This goes the same for reciting the Qur'aan and pondering over its meaning as well as every other righteous deed that is desirable, for they can be done at all times. From the many bounties that Allaah has bestowed upon His servants is that He has placed for them many different types of acts of worship and He provided many means for doing good deeds. Therefore, the enthusiasm and the zeal of the Muslim must be constant and he must continue to remain in the service of his Master.

It is unfortunate to find some people performing worship by doing different types of righteous acts during Ramadaan – they guard strictly their five daily prayers in the masjid, they recite the Qur’aan abundantly and they give in charity from their money. But when Ramadaan comes to an end, they grow lazy in their worship. Rather, sometimes they even abandon the obligations, both generally, such as praying in congregation, and specifically, such as praying the Fajr prayer!

And they (even) commit forbidden acts such as sleeping over the time of prayers, indulging in places of foolishness and entertainment, and mingling in parks, especially on the day of 'Eed! Obtaining help from these evils is only through the Grace of Allaah. Thus, they demolish what they have constructed and they destroy what they have established. This is an indication of deprivation and a sign of perdition. We ask Allaah for His safeguarding and protection!

Indeed, these types of people take the example of turning in repentance and ceasing from committing evil deeds as something specific and restricted to (only) the month of Ramadaan. So they stop doing these (good) acts when the month stops. Thus, it is as if they have abandoned sinning for the sake of Ramadaan, and not out of fear for Allaah! How evil are these people who do not know Allaah except in Ramadaan!

Truly, the success that Allaah grants His servant lies in the fasting of Ramadaan. And Allaah’s assisting him to do that is a great blessing. Thus this calls for the servant to be grateful to his Lord. And this understanding can be found in Allaah’s saying, after having completed the favor of the month of fasting:

"(He wants that you) must compete the same number of days, and that you must magnify Allaah (by saying Allaahu Akbar) for having guided you, so that you may be grateful to Him." [3]

So the one who is grateful for having fasted, he will remain upon that condition and continue to perform righteous deeds.

Indeed, the true manner of a Muslim is that of one who praises and thanks his Lord for having been bestowed the ability to fast and make qiyaam (night prayer). His condition after Ramadaan is better than it was before Ramadaan. He is more ready to obey, desiring to do good deeds and quick to implement the obligatory acts. This is since he has acquired benefit from this prominent institute of learning. It is that of one who fears for having his fast not accepted, for indeed Allaah only accepts from those who have Taqwaa.

The righteous predecessors would struggle to complete and perfect their deeds, hoping afterwards, that it would be accepted and fearing that it would be rejected. From the reports of 'Alee t is that he said: "Be more concerned with having your deeds accepted than with the deed itself. Did you not hear Allaah say: 'Verily Allaah, only accepts from those who have Taqwaa?' [4]" [5]

'Aa'ishah said: "I asked the Messenger of Allaah r concerning the ayah: 'And those who give away that which they give (i.e. charity and other good deeds), while their hearts tremble with fear.' Are they the ones who drink alcohol and steal?" He r said: "No, O daughter of As-Siddeeq. But rather, they are the ones who fast and pray and give in charity, yet fear that it won't be accepted from them. They are the ones who rush to do good deeds and they are the first to do them." [6]

So be warned and again be warned – of turning backward after having attained guidance, of going astray after persevering! And ask Allaah to provide you with endurance in doing righteous deeds and continuity in performing good acts. And ask Allaah that He grant you a good end, in order that He may accept our Ramadaan from us.

Footnotes:

[1] Saheeh Muslim (no. 38)
[2] Surat-ul-Hijr: 99
[3] Surat-ul-Baqarah: 185
[4] Surat-ul-Maa'idah: 27
[5] Lataa'if-ul-Ma'aarif (pg. 246)
[6] Reported by At-Tirmidhee and authenticated by Al-Albaanee in his Saheeh checking of it: (3/79-80)
This message was edited by AbuFatimahSuedi on 11-30-03 @ 9:40 PM

Visitors - shown by country

2011-09-04T18:48:00.000+02:00

Romania

102 :D

India

Hongkong

USA

Australia

Pakistan

France

Germany

whats up romania? : )

2011-08-30T01:36:00.001+02:00

Official Decision and Announcement of the High Judiciary Council of Saudi Arabia...

Just a short time ago the official decision and announcement of the High Judiciary Council of Saudi Arabia that since the moon of Shawwaal was sighted this evening, here in Saudi Arabia, we have completed twenty nine (29) days of Ramadhaan (1432 A.H.)

•°˚˚°••°˚˚°••°˚˚°•
(¯`'•.¸(¯`'•.¸¸.•'´¯)¸.•'´¯)
⌣̊┈̥-̶̯͡»̶̥»·̵̭̌✽̤̥̈̊·̵̭̌-EID MUBARAK-·̵̭̌✽̤̥̈̊·̵̭̌«»̶̥-̶̯͡┈̥⌣̊
(_¸.•'´(_¸.•'´`'•.¸_)`'•.¸_)
•,¸¸¸,•.• ♥.,••,¸¸¸,•

The Fasting of the One who has abandoned the Prayer

2011-08-13T13:16:00.000+02:00

Question:

Noble Shaykh, what is the ruling upon the fasting of the one who has abandoned the prayer?

Answer:

The fast of the one who has left the prayer is not correct and it is not accepted from him; because the one who abandons the prayer is a disbeliever, apostate; due to the Saying of Allaah the Most High:But if they repent, perform the Prayer and give Zakaah, then they are your brothers in the Religion. (In this way) We explain the Ayaat in detail for a people who know. (At-Tawbah 9:11)
And the saying of the Prophet: 'The covenant between us and them (the hypocrites) is the prayer, so whomsoever abandons it then they have disbelieved'1
And the saying of the Prophet: 'Between and man and polytheism and disbelief is the abandonment of the prayer'2
And this was the general view of the Companions, if not their consensus.
Abdulllaah bin Shaqeeq rahimahullaah said - and he is from the well known Taabi'een -: 'The companions of the Prophet of Allaah sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam never saw anything from amongst the actions, the abandonment of which is disbelief, except the prayer'.
And because of (all) this (evidence), if a person was to fast whilst he does not pray then his fast is rejected, not accepted and of no benefit for him with Allaah on the Day of Judgement. And we say to him, pray then fast, as for you fasting and not praying; then your fast is rejected from you, because the worship of the disbeliever is not accepted from him.
______________________________________________________
1: Reported by at-Tirmidhi, Kitaabul Imaan, Chapter: What is reported regarding abandonment of the Prayer, no 2621. And an-Nasaa'ee, Kitaabus-Salaat, Chapter: The Ruling upon abandoning the prayer, no 463. And Ahmad in "al-Musnad" (5/546). And al Haakim in "al-Mustadrak" (1/7) and he said "authentic chain of narration" and ath-Thahabee agreed with him. at-Tirmidhi said "Hasan Saheeh Ghareeb" 2: Reported by Muslim, Kitaabul Imaan, no (82)

Shaykh Muhammad bin Saalih al-`Uthaymeen

Fiqhul 'Ibadaat, Page 204,Question 136

Translated by Abu Maryam Taariq bin 'Ali

Does Anger break the fast?

2011-08-13T13:09:00.000+02:00

Question: During Ramadan, if something angers a person thus while he is angry he begins to insult and curse, does this invalidate his fast or not?

Answer: That does not invalidate his fast, but it decreases his reward. Thus it is upon the Muslim to restrain himself, and guard his tongue from insults, cursing, backbiting, tale carrying and the like; things which Allah has prohibited during the fast and outside of the fast. Although during the fast these actions become more severe and it becomes more urgent for the person to guard the completeness of his fast, and to be far away from harming the people, and far away from being a cause for fitna, animosity, and division,.

This is based on the statement of the Messenger of Allah صلى الله عليه وسلم

فَإِذَا كَانَ يَوْمُ صَوْمِ أَحَدِكُمْ فَلَا يَرْفُثْ يَوْمَئِذٍ وَلَا يَسْخَبْ فَإِنْ سَابَّهُ أَحَدٌ أَوْ قَاتَلَهُ فَلْيَقُلْ إِنِّي امْرُؤٌ صَائِمٌ

“If one of you is fasting then let him not utter obscenities that day, or raise his voice, and if anyone insult him or tries to fight him then let him say, verily I am a person who is fasting.” (Agreed upon)

And with Allah lies all success and may the peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, upon his family, and his companions.

The Permanent Committee of Scholars

Translated by Rasheed Barbee

هل يفسد صومه بالسب والشتم؟

في رمضان إذا غضب الإنسان من شيء وفي حالة غضبه نهر أو شتم فهل يبطل صيامه أم لا ؟

الحمد لله

"لا يبطل ذلك صومه ، ولكنه ينقص أجره ، فعلى المسلم أن يضبط نفسه ، ويحفظ لسانه من السبب والشتم والغيبة والنميمة ، ونحو ذلك ، مما حرم الله في الصيام وغيره ، وفي الصيام أشد وآكد محافظة على كمال صيامه ، وبعداً عما يؤذي الناس ، ويكون سبباً في الفتنة والبغضاء والفرقة ؛ لقوله صلى الله عليه وسلم : (فإذا كان يوم صوم أحدكم فلا يرفث يومئذ ، ولا يسخب ، فإن سابه أحد أو قاتله فليقل إني امرؤ صائم) متفق عليه

وبالله التوفيق ، وصلى الله على نبينا محمد وآله وصحبه وسلم" انتهى

اللجنة الدائمة للبحوث العلمية والإفتاء

Saying Bismillah before pouring hot water

2011-08-13T13:03:00.002+02:00

Answered by:

Shaykh Zaid Al Madkhali
(hafidhahullaah)

Question:Is it authentic, that it is correct for us to say, Bimisllah (In the Name of Allah) when pouring hot water in the sewage in order that we don’t burn the Jinn in the sewage?

Shaykh Zaid Al Madkhali:

Answer:At any rate; don’t pour hot water, don’t pour it in the sewage nor on the earth, don’t pour hot water. Because the earth is filled with inhabitants, so it is possible that it could fall upon the race of the Jinn or upon their young ones causing some of them to take revenge, consequently possessing the person. For this reason if someone wants to pour hot water let him cool it down with (cool) water until it becomes cold and is no longer harmful, then pour it in the sewage or somewhere else.

Translated by Rasheed Barbee

http://z-salafi.com/v2/zsalafi.php?s_menu=23&idFatwa=2276

السؤال:هل صحيح أنه ينبغي لنا أن نقول بسم الله عند صبّ الماء الساخن في المجاري حتىلا نحرق الجن في المجاري ؟
الشيخ:على كل حال لا يصب الماء الحار لا فى المجاري ولا على الأرض لا يصب الماء الحار؛ لأن الأرض مملوءة بالسكان فربما يقع على عالم الجن أو على صغارهم فيحصل الانتقام منهم فيصرع؛ لذا إذا أراد ان يصب الانسان ماءاً حاراً فليبرده بالماء حتى يكون بارداً لا يؤذي ويصبه سواءاً فى المجارى أو في غيرها.

2011-07-26T23:48:00.000+02:00

Q. If a person speaks forbidden words during the daylight in Ramadan, does it invalidate his fast?

A. If we recited the Words of Allah, the Almighty, the All-Powerful:

يَا أَيُّهَا الَّذِينَ آمَنُواْ كُتِبَ عَلَيْكُمُ الصِّيَامُ كَمَا كُتِبَ عَلَى الَّذِينَ مِن قَبْلِكُمْ لَعَلَّكُمْ تَتَّقُونَ

“O you who believe! Observing As-Saum (the fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqûn (the pious). [Al-Baqarah 2:183]

We will know the wisdom behind the obligation f fasting, which is Taqwa and the worship of Allah, the Most Glorified, the Most High. Taqwa means to abandon forbidden things, and without exception, those things include doing that which is commanded and leaving that which is forbidden. For the Prophet (salAllahu ‘alayhi wa salam) said:

“Whoever does not give up untruthful speech and evil actions, Allah is not in need of him leaving his food and drink.”[Reported by Al-Bukhari in the Book of fasting, in the Chapter: Whoever Does not Give up Untruthful Speech and Acting Upon It (1903)]

According to this, it is confirmed that it is a duty upon the fasting person to avoid unlawful things, including words and deeds. He should not backbite people, nor should he lie, nor should he spread tales among them, nor should he sell forbidden things; he should avoid all unlawful things. If a person undertakes the performance of those things which are commanded, and leaves the unlawful things for a whole month, then his soul will go straight for the remainder of the year.

But unfortunately, many fasting people do not distinguish between the day of their fast and that of not fasting. Instead, they behave in their usual manner, saying unlawful things, such as lying, cheating and other such things. You do not sense the solemnity of fasting from him.

These deeds do not invalidate the fast, but they decrease his reward, and it is possible that at the time of accounting, the reward of fasting will be lost.

[By: Shaykh Muhammad bin Salih Al-Uthaymeen|Fatwa Arkan-ul-Islam Islamic Verdicts on the Pillars of Islam | Volume 2 | Prayer, Zakah, Fasting, Hajj |Collected & Arranged by: Fahd bin Nasir bin Ibrahim As-Sulaiman | Darussalam]

funny facts. our visitors this week by country

2011-07-21T11:21:00.000+02:00

U.S.
54
India
29
UK
26
Malaysia
16
Pakistan
13
Sweden
13
Saudi Arabia
10
Spain
9
Bangladesh
8
Germany
5

Thank you everyone for visiting

BEWARE OF OVEREATING!!!! WARNING!!!

2011-07-20T09:19:00.002+02:00

In the name of Allaah, the Most Beneficent, Bestower of Mercy,

Hadeeth #1476: On the authority of al-Miqdaam ibn Ma’deekarib, radiyallaahu ‘anhu, who said: The Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “No child of Aadam ever filled a vessel more destructive than his stomach.“¹

Explanation:

In this hadeeth is a prohibition from eating to one’s fill and indulging excessively in the luxuries of the worldy-life. The Messenger (sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “No child of Aadam ever filled a vessel more destructive than his stomach.” That is because if he fills his stomach it will harm him tremendously with regards to his religion and his health.

With regards to his religion: It will hinder him from the obedience of Allaah and cause him to be sluggish concerning the performance of acts of worship. It will also make him burdensome (upon himself) and inclined towards sleep. It will have a negative effect upon his heart and afflict it with laziness, obscurity, lack of attention and incompetence.

With regards to his health: The doctors have mentioned that overeating inherits many diseases. Likewise when a person always fills himself with food it urges him to behave and act barbaric and arrogantly. However if he is hungry then this will more likely prompt him to behave humbly and passively.

If he reduces his intake of food and drink, this will motivate him to be lenient and meek. On the other hand if he stuffs himself, this will incite him to act viciously, recklessly, haughty and cause him to chase after (his) evil desires. Every time he desires something he goes, gets and eats it. Nothing concerns him except his stomach and evil desires. This is something reprehensible and it (overeating) brings about many chronic diseases. It could well bring about a disease that could kill him; all due to overeating.

Therefore, eating to one’s fill is detrimental to a person’s religion, worldly-life and health. The Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “Sufficient for the son of Aadam are some morsels to keep his back straight. But if it is a must, then one-third for his food, one-third for his drink and one-third for air.” [This is the rest of the hadeeth of al-Miqdaam, radiyallaahu 'anhu]

The Shaykh continues: So if he were to fill his whole stomach and not leave any space for drink nor air then this is very harmful as the Messenger (sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “No child of Aadam ever filled a vessel more destructive than his stomach.”

Thus, it is incumbent upon an individual to take heed of this prophetic moral and to not be excessive when it comes to eating or his desires. In addition to this, if a person reaches a point where he is extremely greedy regarding food then it is likely that the halaal will not suffice him, hence he will set out seeking the haraam so he can fulfill his (evil) cravings.

So in filling one’s stomach (i.e. eating to one’s fill) there are many harms and evils that stem from it. So it’s a must that one decreases his consumption of food even if he desires it, as the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said, place a third for (each) his food, drink and air. This is what the Prophet (sallallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) advised us with (i.e. eating in this manner).

[Taken from: Tasheel al-Imaam bifiqhi lil-Ahaadith min Buloogh il- Maraam (Shaykh Saalih Fawzaan’s explanation of Bulooghul-Maraam)|Translator: Abu Fouzaan Qaasim]

_____________________________________________________

Footnotes:

1[At-Tirmithee (2317) Declared saheeh by al- Albaanee] – The hadeeth in Bulooghul-Maraam is not in its totality. The complete hadeeth can be found in ibn Maajah (#3349).

Admiring oneself after doing a good deed?

2011-07-20T09:16:00.000+02:00

If a person feels self admiration after doing something good or fears that he may show off, he should ward that off and resist it by seeking refuge with Allaah from it, and saying “Allaahumma inni a’oodhu bika an ushrika bika wa ana a’lam, wa’staghfiruka lima laa a’lam (O Allaah, I seek refuge with you from knowingly associating anything with You, and I seek Your forgiveness for that of which I am unaware)” – as was reported from the Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallaam).

These kind of feelings happen to everyone, but you have to try to be sincere towards Allaah, seek His forgiveness, and remember that there is no strength and no power except with Allaah; if it were not for the help of Allaah, you would not have been able to do this good deed, so to Allaah be praise in the beginning and at the end.

The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallaam). said to Mu’aadh ibn Jabal: “O Mu’aadh, by Allaah indeed I love you, and I advise you, O Mu’aadh, do not forget at the end of every prayer to say: Allaahumma a’inni ‘ala dhikrika wa shukrika wa husni ‘ibaaditika (O Allaah, help me to remember You, give thanks to You and worship You in the best way).” (Narrated by Ahmad, Abu Dawood, al-Nasaa’i, and others; it is saheeh).

Do not forego doing good deeds for fear of showing off, because this is one of the tricks that the Shaytaan uses to weaken people’s resolve and stop them from doing things that Allaah loves and is pleased with.

As for merely feeling happy that one has done a good deed, this does not contradict sincerity and faith, for Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“Say: “In the Bounty of Allâh, and in His Mercy (i.e. Islâm and the Qur’ân); —therein let them rejoice.” That is better than what (the wealth) they amass” [Yoonus 10:58] – meaning, if he attains guidance, faith and righteous deeds, and the mercy resulting from that overwhelms him and he feels joy and success as a result. Hence Allaah commanded us to rejoice over such things.

The Prophet (sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallaam). said: “If your good deeds make you happy and your bad deeds make you sad, then you are a believer.” (Narrated by Ahmad, Ibn Majaah and others from the hadeeth of Abu Umaamah; it is a saheeh hadeeth).

By the same token, if people praise you for your good deed, then this is a portion of the glad tidings of the Hereafter, which Allaah gives a person in this world. The Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallaam). was asked, “What do you think if a man does a good deed and the people praise him for it?” He said: “That is the portion of the glad tidings for the believer which he is given in this world.” (Narrated by Muslim from the hadeeth of Abu Hurayrah, may Allaah be pleased with him).

So this praise is a sign that Allaah is pleased with him and loves him, so He makes him dear to other people.

We ask Allaah to make our intentions and deeds right.

[Reference: Masaa’il wa Rasaa’il by Muhammad al-Mahmood al-Najdi, p. 21]

http://ummuabdulazeez.wordpress.com/2011/07/19/admiring-oneself-after-doing-a-good-deed/

Books recommended - Albani

2011-07-20T09:13:00.000+02:00

[6] Question: What are the books you recommend a young person that is starting out in his Islaamic studies to read?

Answer:

If he is a novice, then from the books of Fiqh, we advise him to read “Fiqh As-Sunnah” of Sayyid Saabiq, while seeking assistance from some of its references, such as “Subul-us-Salaam (the ways of Peace & Safety) “ (of Imaam As-Sana’aanee, rahimahullaah). And if he looks into “Tamaam-ul-Mannah” (of Al-Albaanee) then that will be stronger for him.

And I advise him to read “Ar-Rawdat-un-Nadiyyah” (of Sideeq Hasan Khaan).

As for the subject of Tafseer, then he should habitually read from the book “Tafseer Al-Qur’aan-ul-’Adheem” of Ibn Katheer – [chm file download ]even though it is somewhat long – for it is the most authentic from the books of Tafseer today.

Then, on the subject of religious exhortation and heart-softening narrations, he should read the book “Riyaad-us-Saaliheen” of Imaam An-Nawawee. [ pdf version] [Daeef hadeeth in Riyadh us Saleheen - Albanee ]

Then, with regard to the books related to Creed, I advise him to read the book “Sharh Al-’Aqeedat-ut-Tahaawiyyah” of Ibn Abee Al-’Izz Al-Hanafee. And he should seek assistance, also, from my comments and explanations to it.

Then, he should make it his customary practice to study from the books of Shaikh-ul-Islaam Ibn Taimiyyah and his student Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawziyyah, may Allaah have mercy on them. For I hold them to be from the rare and unique Muslim scholars that have treaded upon the methodology of the Salaf As-Saalih (righteous predecessors) in their understanding, while having Taqwaa and righteousness. And we do not purify anyone over Allaah.

[Al-Asaalah, Issue #5][Source al-manhaj|Abdurahman.org]

Books recommended for beginners - Muqbil

2011-07-20T09:11:00.002+02:00

Question:

Which books should a student of knowledge begin with? And then after those, if he wants to widen his study?

Answer:

The books, which a student of knowledge, who is a beginner, should start reading with [if he can read and write well] are:

Fath ul-Majeed Sharh Kitaab ut-Tawheed , which is a mighty book,

Aqeedat ul-Waasitiyyah by Shaykh ul-Islaam ibn Taymiyyah,

al-Qawl ul-Mufeed Fee Adillatit Tawheed by our brother Muhammad ibn ‘Abdul-Wahhaab al-Wasaabee,

Bulugh al-Maraam

Riyaadh us-Saaliheen

When you have read these books, you yourself will crave for more. If you could, start with the memorization of the Qur’aan, and this more good and desirable.

As for the issue, regarding the ‘Arabic language, for our foreign brothers, then it is very important. If there is a foreign person who does not speak the ‘Arabic language well, then a person may come to him in his Islaamic appearance and then he begins to explain the Qur’aan to him other than how it ought to be, as happened with the Mu’tazilah.

[Taken From Tuhfatul Mujeeb ‘Alaa Asilatil-Hadhir wal-Ghareeb, p.156, Dar al-Aathar|Shaykh Muqbil ibn Haadi al-Waad'iee |Translated By: 'Amr Basheer|Abdurahman.org]

Books recommended to study - Fawzan

2011-07-20T09:10:00.000+02:00

Part 01: Books Recommended by Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan in ‘Aqeedah

Question:

With which books would you advise a person who is at the beginning stages of seeking knowledge?

Answer:

We advise him to memorize the smaller books in ‘Aqeedah, for example, ‘Thalaathtul ‘Usool’ and ‘Kashfush Shubuhaat’ and ‘Kitaabut Tawheed’ of Shaykh Muhammad bin ‘Abdul Wahhaab (Rahimahullaah).

Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan

[Source: Sahab|Translated By: Abu Maryam Taariq bin 'Ali]

Part 02: Books Recommended by Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan in Tafseer

For the Beginner:

(1) Tafseer al-Jalaalayn by Jalaal ud-Deen as-Suyootee (d. 911) and Jalaal ud-Deen al-Mahalee (d. 864), and
(2) Tafseer al-Baydaawee (d. 658).

Shaykh al-Fawzaan mentioned that despite the shortcomings of both of these books, they explain and clarify many of the phrases and meanings of the Qur’aan.

For the Student of Knowledge:

(3) Tafseer Ibn Katheer (d. 774), and
(4) Tafseer al-Baghawee (d. 516), which the Shaykh called a “good, Salafee tafseer.”

For Everyone (Beginner, Student, Scholar):
Tafseer Ibn Sa’dee (d. 1376). The Shaykh mentioned how it is a great book because it is an easy-to-read, complete tafseer which covers all of the various sciences.

For the Scholars:

(5) Tafseer at-Tabaree (d. 310), which the Shaykh called “The Mother of the Tafaaseer,”
(6) Tafseer al-Qurtubee (d. 671), and
(7) Adwaa’ ul-Bayaan of Muhammad al-Ameen ash-Shanqeetee (d. 1393).

Finally, he mentions (8) Fath ul-Qadeer of Shawkaanee (d. 1250), stating that it is good for both students of knowledge and beginners as well.

Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan

[Source: SalafiTalk|Translated By: Abu 'Abdul 'Azeez al-Misree]

Part 03: Books Recommended by Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan in Hadeeth

For the Beginner:

(1) al-Arba’een an-Nawawiyyah along with the explanation of Ibn Rajab (d. 795), entitled Jaami’ ul-‘Uloom wal-Hikam, as well as
(2) Riyaadh us-Saaliheen, both by an-Nawawee (d. 676).

The Shaykh also mentioned (3) ‘Umdat ul-Akhaam by ‘Abdil-Ghanee al-Maqdisee (d. 600) and made note of the fact that all of its ahaadeeth are in either one or both of the saheehayn (Bukhaareei and Muslim).

For the Student of Knowledge:

(4) Buloogh ul-Maraam by al-‘Asqalaanee (d. 852) along with its explanation Subul us-Salaam by as-San’aanee (d. 1189), and
(5) al-Muntaqa min Akhbaar il-Mustafa by Majd ul-Deen Ibn Taymiyyah (d. 652) along with its explanation by ash-Shawkaanee (d. 1250), titled Nayl ul-Awtaar.

For the Scholars:

The Shaykh mentioned that the most superior and complete “bahth ul-ghazeer” is (6) Fath ul-Baaree Sharh Saheeh il-Bukhaaree by al-‘Asqalaanee.

Finally, the Shaykh mentioned how “al-Usool as-Sittah” along with Musnad ul-Imaam Ahmad should be referred back to by the student of knowledge and the scholar.

[Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaa|Source: SalafiTalk|Translated By: Abu 'Abdul 'Azeez al-Misree |Abdurahman.org]

Words of Advice for Ramadan - Uthaymeen

2011-07-20T09:06:00.002+02:00

Certainly, concerning the approach of the blessed month of Ramadhaan, I advise my Muslim brethren everywhere to have taqwa of Allaah, the Mighty and Majestic; to strive to do good deeds; to give sincere advice and be patient with the advice; to assist one another in good deeds and piety; to be cautious of all the sins Allaah has forbidden, wherever one may be, especially during this noble month – for indeed it is a great (precious) month, within which the reward for good actions is multiplied.

Mistakes (sins) are forgiven during this month, for those who fast and perform voluntary prayers, with sincere faith and hoping to attain Allaah’s rewards.

The Prophet (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam) said:

((Whoever fasts during the month of Ramadhaan, out of sincere faith and hoping to attain Allaah’s rewards, then all his previous sins will be forgiven)).

The Prophet (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam) also said:

((When the month of Ramadhaan starts, the gates of the Heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are closed and the devils are chained)).

The Prophet (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam) also said:

((Fasting is a shield or protection from the fire and from committing sins. If one of you is fasting, he should avoid sexual relation with his wife and quarrelling, and if somebody should fight or quarrel with him, he should say, “I am fasting”)).

The Prophet (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam) also said (on the authority of Allaah):

((All the deeds of the son of Aadam are for himself; a good deed is eqaul to ten times it’s equivalent except fasting, for certainly it is for Me, and I will give the reward for it. He left his desires, his food, his drink for My sake. There are two pleasures for the fasting person, one at the time of breaking his fast, and the other at the time when he will meet his Lord. The unpleasant smell coming from the mouth of a fasting person is more pleasant to Allaah than the smell of musk)).

The Prophet (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam) used to announce the good news of the arrival of the month of Ramadhaan to his companions, and would say to them:

((The month of Ramadhaan has come to you. It is the month of blessings. During this month, Allaah sends down mercy, ones mistakes are forgiven, supplications are answered and Allaah praises you in the presence of His angels, so show Allaah your virtues. For certainly the unfortunate individual is he who is prohibited from the mercy of Allaah)).

The Prophet (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam) said:

((One who does not abandon evil talk and actions, then Allaah is not in need of him abandoning his food and drink (i.e. his fasting))).

And (such) narrations regarding the superiority of Ramadhaan and striving to increase good deeds in it, are many.

Therefore, I advise my Muslim brethren to be sincere and upright during the days and the nights, and to compete in doing all good deeds. And from amongst these (good deeds) are: To increase in reading the Noble Qur.aan, with understanding and contemplation. And to increase in glorifying Allaah [subhaan-Allaah] (at-Tasbeeh), prasing Allaah [al-Hamdu-Lillaah] (at-Tahmeed), declaring none truly worthy of worship except Allaah [Laa ilaaha ill-Allaah] (at-Tahleel), declaring the greatness of Allaah [Allaahu Akbar] (at-Takbeer), and seeking forgiveness from Allaah [Astaghfi-rullaah] (al-Istighfaar), and to ask Allaah for Paradise, seeking His protection from the Hell fire and all (other) good supplications.

I also advise my Muslim brethren to increase in giving charity during this month; to comfort the poor and destitute; to make (every) effort to deduct the Zakaah (from one’s wealth) and distribute it amongst the deserving; to make (every) effort in inviting to (the path of) Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta’aala) and teaching those unacquainted (with Islaam); to command the good and forbid the evil with gentleness, wisdom and the best of manners; to warn against all evil and adhere to seeking sincere repentance, according to Allaah’s saying:

{…and all of you beg Allaah to forgive you all, O believers, that you may be successful}, [Soorah an-Noor, Aayah 31].

And the saying of Allaah:

{Verily those who say: ‘Our Lord is (only) Allaah,’ and thereafter Istaqamu (i.e. stood firm and straight on the Islaamic Faith of Monotheism by abstaining from all kinds of sins and evil deeds which Allaah has forbidden and by performing all kinds of good deeds which He has ordained), – On them shall be no fear, nor shall they grieve. Such shall be the dwellers of Paradise, abiding therein (forever), – a reward for what they used to do}, [Soorah al-Ahqaaf, Aayah's 13-14].

May Allaah grant everyone success in that which pleases Him and protect everyone from the temptations which misguide and all satanic enticement. For certainly Allaah is generous and kind.

[Shaykh 'Ibn Baaz|Fataawa Ramadhaan - Volume 1, Page 32, Fatwa No.7;|Majmoo' Fataawa Samaahatu as-Shaykh 'Abdul-'Azeez Ibn Baaz - Volume 3, Pages 147-148]

http://ummuabdulazeez.wordpress.com/2011/07/19/words-of-advice-for-ramadhaan/

lying and backbiting while fasting?!

2011-07-18T14:09:00.001+02:00

"There are two practices, if a person can keep himself from them, his fast will be secured for him: backbiting and lying."

It is reported that Ibrâhîm Al-Nakha’î – Allâh have mercy on him – said:
They used to say: lying breaks the fast.

...It is reported that Anas b. Mâlik – Allâh be pleased with him – said:
If the fasting person backbites, his fast is broken.

Hunâd b. Al-Saree, Al-Zuhd article 1204

Is it permissible for those who do hard work to break the fast during Ramadaan?

2011-07-16T16:43:00.002+02:00

Is it permissible for those who do hard work to break the fast during Ramadaan?

The basic principle is that it is obligatory to fast Ramadaan, and to form the intention to fast from the night before, for all adult Muslims, who should start the day fasting, except for those to whom the Lawgiver has granted a concession, who are allowed not to fast - namely the sick, travellers and those who come under those headings.

Those who do hard work come under the heading of those who are obliged to fast and they are not like the sick or travellers. They have to form the intention to observe the Ramadaan fast from the night before, and to start the day fasting. If one of them is forced to break the fast during the day, then it is permissible for him to break the fast with enough to ward off any harm, then he must refrain from eating and drinking for the rest of the day, and he has to make up that fast at the proper time.

If there is no such necessity then it is obligatory to complete the fast. This is what is indicated by the shar`i evidence from the Qur'aan and Sunnah, and it is what is indicated by the words of the scholars of all madhhabs.

Those in positions of authority among the Muslims among whom are people who do hard work should examine their case when Ramadaan comes, and if possible, they should not burden them with too much work that may force them to break the fast during the day in Ramadaan, rather they should have the work done at night, or distribute work hours in a fair and just manner so that people may both work and fast.

Majmoo` Fataawa Ibn Baaz, 14/245

Rulings for Fasting that are Specific for Women

2011-07-06T19:30:00.000+02:00

Author:Shaikh Saalih Al-Fawzaan
Source:His book Tanbeehaat ‘alaa Ahkaam takhtassu bil-Mu’minaat (pg. 62-67)
Translator:isma'eel alarcon (for al-manhaj.com)

Fasting the month of Ramadaan is an obligation on every male and female Muslim, and it is one of the pillars and great foundations of Islaam. Allaah says: "O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you in order that you may attain Taqwaa." [Surah Al-Baqarah: 183] The word "kutiba" (prescribed) here means "furida" obligated. So when the young girl reaches the age in which she will be held accountable for her actions, by having one of the signs of puberty become apparent in her, among which is menstruation, then the obligation of fasting begins for her. She could begin menstruating as early as when she is nine years old. However, some young girls are not aware that they are required to begin fasting at that point, so she doesn’t fast thinking that she is too young, nor do her parents order her to fast. This is a great negligence, for one of the pillars of Islaam is being abandoned. If this occurs to any woman, she is obligated to make up for the days of fasting that she abandoned since the point when she began menstruating, even if a long time has passed since that time, for it remains in her obligations.

Who is obligated to fast Ramadaan?

When the month of Ramadaan comes, every male and female Muslim that (1) has reached the age of puberty, is (2) healthy and (3) a resident (i.e. not traveling) is obligated to fast. And whoever is sick or traveling during the month, may break the fast and make up the number of days missed on other days. Allaah says: "So whoever sights the (moon indicating the beginning of the) month, then he must fast. And whoever is sick or on a journey, then (he may break the fast and instead fast) the number of days missed on other days." [Surah Al-Baqarah: 185] Likewise, whoever enters into Ramadaan and he is very old and not able to fast or has a chronic illness, which does not expect to be cured any specific time - whether male or female - may break the fast and instead feed a needy person half a saa’ (four handfuls) of the food from that people’s land for every day missed. Allaah says: "And as for those who can fast (but) with difficulty, they (may break their fast and) feed a needy person." [Surah Al-Baqarah: 184] Ibn ‘Abbaas (raa) said: "This ayah is for the old man of whom it is not anticipated that he will be cured." [Saheeh Al-Bukhaaree] And the sick person of whom it is not hoped that he will be cured from his sickness falls under the ruling of the old person. And he does not have to make up the missed days because of his inability to fast.

A woman is specified with certain excuses that permit her to break the fast in Ramadaan, on the condition that she makes up the days she missed fasting due to these excuses on other days. These excuses are:

1. Menstrual and Postpartum Bleeding: A woman is forbidden from fasting while she is in these two conditions. And she is obligated to make up these missed days of fasting on other days. This is based on what is reported in the two Saheeh collections from ‘Aa’isha (raa) who said: "We were ordered to make up the (missed) days of fasting but we were not ordered to make up the (missed) prayers." She gave this answer when a woman asked her: "Why does a menstruating woman have to make up the (missed days of) fasting and not have to make up the (missed) prayers?" So she (raa) clarified that this is from the matters dependent on revelation, which must comply with the reported texts.

As for the wisdom behind that, then Shaikh-ul-Islaam Ibn Taimiyyah said in "Majmoo’-ul-Fataawaa" (15/251): "The blood that comes out of the woman because of menstruation has a discharge of blood in it. A menstruating woman can fast in times other than when the blood that comes out of her due to menstruation contains her blood. So her fasting in this situation is a moderate and balanced fast - no blood, which strengthens the body and which is its main substance - comes out of her during these times. But her fasting when she is menstruating necessitates that her blood come out during this time - the blood, which is the main component of her body and which will lead to a weakness and deficiency in her body. And this will necessitate that her fast not be that of a moderate and balanced nature. So that is why she is commanded to fast in times when she is not menstruating."

2. Pregnancy and Breast-Feeding: If because of fasting there is harm caused to the woman or the baby or to both of them, then she may break the fast while she is pregnant or breastfeeding. But if the harm for which reason she is breaking her fast only applies to her baby and not her, then she must make up for the days she missed of fasting and feed a needy person for each day missed. And if the harm only applies to herself, then it is sufficient for her to only make up the missed days. This is based on the pregnant woman and breastfeeding woman falling under the generality of Allaah’s saying: "And for those who can fast (but) with difficulty, they (may break their fast) and instead feed a needy person." [Surah Al-Baqarah: 184]

Al-Haafidh Ibn Katheer (rahimahullaah) said in his Tafseer (1/379): "Amongst those who fall into the meaning of this ayah are the pregnant and breastfeeding women if they fear for themselves or for their children." And Shaikh-ul-Islaam Ibn Taimiyyah said: "If a pregnant woman fears for her fetus, then she may not fast and instead make up each day of fasting that was missed on other days and feed a needy person around 2 kilograms of bread." [Majmoo’-ul-Fatawaa: 25/318]

Important Notes:

1. Istihaadah (Irregular Bleeding): This is the condition in which a woman has blood come out of her, which is not her menstrual blood. She must observe the fast and it is not permissible for her to break her fast because of this type of bleeding. When mentioning the allowance of the menstruating woman of breaking her fast, Shaikh-ul-Islaam Ibn Taimiyyah (rahimahullaah) said: "This is contrary to the woman in the state of Istihaadah, for this state comprises an unfixed period of time, and there is not a time in it in which she can be commanded to begin fasting (again). So because of this, it is not possible to caution against it, the same as for throwing up unexpectedly, emitting blood due to a wound, getting a boil, Ihtilaam (when sexual fluid comes out of the private parts not due to intercourse or foreplay), as well as all the other things that do not have a fixed time in which they could be cautioned against. So this (Istihaadah) was not made as something that nullifies the fast, such as the blood of menstruation." [Majmoo’-ul-Fataawaa: 25/251]

2. The Menstruating woman as well as the pregnant and breastfeeding women, if they break their fast in Ramadaan, must make up for the missed days of fasting in the time that occurs between the Ramadaan in which they broke their fast and the forthcoming Ramadaan. But to complete them early is better. And if there only remain a few days before the next Ramadaan begins, then they are obligated to make up the missed days of fasting (from the previous Ramadaan) such that the new Ramadaan will not come upon them while they still have to fast days from the previous Ramadaan. But if they don’t do this and Ramadaan comes upon them while they still owe days of fasting from the previous Ramadaan, and they have no (valid) excuse for delaying it, they are obligated to make up the missed days and to feed a needy person for each day. But if they have a valid excuse, then they must only make up the missed days of fasting. This goes the same for those who must make up the missed days of fasting due to sickness or traveling. Their ruling is like the ruling of the woman who broke the fast due to menses, with the previously mentioned details.

3. It is not permissible for a woman to observe a recommended fast if her husband is present unless she has his permission. This is based on what Al-Bukhaaree, Muslim and others have reported from Abu Hurairah (raa) that the Prophet (saws) said: "It is not permissible for a woman to fast while her husband is present except with his permission." In some narrations of the hadeeth in Ahmad and Abu Dawood, there occurs the wording "...except Ramadaan." But if the husband permits her to observe a recommended fast or he is not present around her or if she doesn’t have a husband, then it is encouraged for her to observe this recommended day of fasting. This is especially for the days in which it is recommended to fast such as Mondays and Thursdays, three days in every month, six days in Shawaal, the tenth day of Dhul-Hijjah, the Day of ‘Arafah and the Day of ‘Aashooraa along with the day before or after it. However, she should not observe a recommended fast while she owes days to make up for (the previous) Ramadaan, until she first makes up these missed days and Allaah knows best.

4. If a menstruating woman stops bleeding during the day in Ramadaan, she must begin her fasting for the remainder of the day but still make it up with the days that she didn’t fast because of menses. Her fasting for the remainder of the day in which she stops bleeding is an obligation on her out of respect for the time (i.e. Ramadaan).

The Wisdom and Benefits behind Fasting

2011-07-04T13:13:00.000+02:00

AUTHOR:	Imaam Ibn Qayyim Al-Jawziyyah (rahimahullaah)
SOURCE:	Abridged from his book Zaad al-Ma'aad
PRODUCED BY:	Al-Ibaanah (dot) com (the site is down now, baarak Allaahu feekum)

The objective behind fasting is to restrain the soul from (its) desires and to prevent it from those things, which are beloved to it. And its purpose is to control the soul's strength, so that it can be prepared to attain what is found in it (the fast) from success and joy for the soul. Through the fast, one curbs his hunger and thirst and is reminded of the condition of the hungry stomachs of needy people.

Through fasting, one narrows the passages the Devil has inside the servant (of Allaah) by narrowing the passages of food and drink. Also, it prevents the forces of the limbs from getting too accustomed to things that are harmful to it in this world and the hereafter. And each of the soul's body limbs and energies can cease their rebelliousness (to Allaah) and be harnessed by its bridle.

So therefore, the fast is the bridle of those who fear and obey Allaah and the shield of those wage war (against desires). And it is a garden for the righteous and devoted servants of Allaah. And it is for the Lord of the worlds, over all other actions (done to please Allaah). This is since the person who fasts, in fact does nothing. He only abandons his desire and his food for the sake of the One whom he worships.

So fasting is an abandonment of those things that the soul loves and desires, preferring instead Allaah's love and contentment. And it is a secret kept between the servant and his Lord – no one else is aware of it.

Fasting has an amazing effect in preserving one's outer limbs and inner capacities as well as protecting the soul from being overtaken by destructive components, which can ruin and destroy it. And it has a remarkable effect in causing all the harmful things that prevent the soul from being healthy to be emptied out. So fasting guards and protects the health of the person's heart and body limbs. And it returns the soul all that the hands of the desires has taken from it. So it is from the greatest ways of improving one's Taqwaa, as Allaah says: "O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you in order that you attain Taqwaa." [Surah Al-Baqarah: 185]

The Prophet (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said: "Fasting is a shield." And he commanded those who had intense desires for marriage but were not able to marry, to observe fasting, making it a shield against those desires (of marriage).

When the benefits of fasting are born witness to by sensible minds and upright intuitions, one will come to realize that Allaah prescribed it as a mercy for mankind, goodness to them and a protection and shield for them. The Prophet's (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) guidance concerning it was the most perfect of guidance, and the best for reaching the desired objective and the easiest on the soul.

Since restraining the soul from what it loves and desires is from the most difficult and hardest of things, its obligation was delayed until the middle of Islaam, after the Hijrah. This was at the point when the Tawheed and the Prayer had become firmly established in the souls of the Muslims and when they loved the commands of Allaah. So their souls were lead to its obligation in gradual steps. It became obligatory in the second year of Hijrah.

When the Messenger of Allaah (sallAllaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) died, he had fasted nine Ramadaans in total. Originally, it was obligated as an option left to the people to choose whether they wanted to fast or to feed needy people for every day. Then that option was transferred into the final obligatory fasting. And the matter of feeding people was left only for the old men and women who did not have the ability to fast.

Fasting had three stages. The first stage was its being obligated with the option of fasting or feeding a needy person. In the second stage, only the fasting was allowed, but if the person fasting slept before breaking his fast, he was forbidden from eating and drinking until the following night. This was abrogated in the third stage. And this is the stage at which the Religion has settled with until the Day of Judgement.

How do we reconcile between the hadeeth, “If the first half of Sha’baan has past, then do not fast…” and “The most beloved of months for the Messenger of Allaah to fast in was Sha’baan…”

2011-07-03T10:42:00.003+02:00

Posted on: Monday, September 11th, 2006 @ 4:36 pm
Written by/Said by: Shaykh 'Abdul 'Azeez bin 'Abdullaah bin Baaz (رحمه الله)
Taken from: Majmoo' Fataawaa wa Maqaalaat Mutnawwiah - volume 27

Question: We have read in Saheeh Al-Jaami’ Al-Hadeeth (397) authenticated by (Shaykh) Al-Albaanee and collected by As-Suyootee (398) upon the authority of Abee Hurayrah (رضي الله عنه) that he said that the Messenger of Allaah (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said: “If the first half of Sha’baan has past, then do not fast until it is Ramadhaan.” And there is present another hadeeth collected by As-Suyootee (8757), and it was authenticated by Al-Albaanee in Saheeh Al-Jaami’ (4638) that upon the authority of ‘A’isha (رضى الله عنها) that she said: “The most beloved of months for the Messenger of Allaah (صلى الله عليه وسلم) to fast in was Sha’baan, and his fasting in Sha’baan was continuous like his fasting in Ramadhaan.” So how do we reconcile between these two hadeeths?

Answer: With the name of Allaah and All praise is due to Allaah. To proceed:

The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) used to fast the month of Sha’baan in its entirety except for a few days as has been established from the hadeeth of ‘A’isha and Umm Salamah. As for the hadeeth in which there is a prohibition upon fasting after the first half of Sha’baan has past, then it is Saheeh as the brother, Al-‘Allaamah, Ash-Shaykh Naasir Ud-Deen Al-Albaanee (rahimahullaah) has mentioned. And what is intended by it, the prohibition, is upon the commencement of fasting after the first half (of Sha’baan) has past. As for the one who fasts most of the month or the month entirely, then he has reached the Sunnah. And Allaah is the grantor of Tawfeeq (success).

1st of (the month of) Sha´abaan

2011-07-01T23:25:00.000+02:00

tomorrow is 1st Sha'abaan... dear brothers and sisters in Islam...

narrated by al-Nasaa’i and Abu Dawood, and classed as saheeh by Ibn Khuzaymah, according to which Usaamah ibn Zayd said: “I said, ‘O Messenger of Allaah, I do not see you fasting in any month more than in Sha’baan.’ He said, ‘That is a month concerning which many people are heedless, between Rajab and Ramadaan. It is the month in which people’s deeds are taken up to the Lord of the Worlds, and I would like my deeds to be taken up whilst I am fasting.’” Classed as hasan by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Nasaa’i, 2221.

The Inner Secrets of Fasting

2011-06-29T23:42:00.000+02:00

author: Imam Muwaffaq-ud-Deen Ibn Qudamaah Al-Maqdisee

Know, that in the fast (Sawm) is a special quality that is not found in anything else. And that is its close connection to Allaah, such that He says:

‘‘The Fast (Sawm) is for Me and I will reward it.’’ [2]

This connection is enough to show the high status of fasting. Similarly, the Ka’bah is highly dignified due to its close connection to Him, as occurs in His statement:

‘‘And sanctify My House.’’ [3]

Indeed, the fast is only virtuous due to two significant concepts:

THE FIRST: It is a secret and hidden action, thus, no one from the creation is able to see it Therefore riyaa‘ (showing off) cannot enter into it.

THE SECOND: It is a means of subjugating the enemies of Allaah. This is because the road that the enemies (of Allaah) embark upon (in order to misguide the Son of Aadam) is that of desires. And eating and drinking strengthens the desires. There are many reports that indicate the merits of fasting, and they are well known

THE RECOMMENDED ACTS OF FASTING:

The pre-dawn meal (suhoor) and delaying in taking it are preferable, as well as hastening to break the fast and doing so with dates. Generosity in giving is also recommended during Ramadhaan, as well as doing good deeds and increasing in charity. This is in accordance with the way of the Messenger of Allaah. It is also recommended to study the Qur‘aan and perform I‘tikaaf (seclusion for worship) during Ramadhaan, especially in its last ten days, as well as increasing upon the exertion (towards doing good deeds) in it. In the two Saheehs, ’Aa‘ishah said: ‘‘When the last ten days (of Ramadhaan) would come, the Prophet would tighten his waist wrapper (izaar)’’ [4] The scholars have mentioned two views concerning the meaning of ‘tighten his wrapper (izaar)’ The first is that it means the turning away from women. The second is that it is an expression denoting his eagerness and diligence in doing good deed. They also say that the reason for: the last ten days of Ramadhaan was due to his seeking of the Night of al-Qadr (Laylatul-Qadr).

AN EXPLANATION OF THE INNER SECRETS OF FASTING AND ITS CHARACTERISITCS:

There are three levels of fasting, the general fast, the specific fast and the more specific fast. As for the general fast, then it is the refraining of ones stomach and their private parts from fulfilling their desires. The specific fast is the refraining of ones gaze, tongue, hands, feet, hearing and eyes, as well as the rest of his body parts from committing sinful acts. As for the more specific fast, then it is the heart’s abstention from its yearning after the worldly affairs and the thoughts which distance one away from Allaah, as well as its (the heart’s) abstention. From all the things that Allaah has placed on the same level. [5] From the characteristics of the specific fast is that one lowers his gaze and safeguards his tongue from the repulsive speech that is forbidden, disliked, or which has no benefit, as well as controlling the rest of his body parts. . In a hadeeth by al-Bukhaaree: ‘‘Whosoever does not abandon false speech and the acting upon it, Allaah is not in need off his food and drink.’’ [6]

Another characteristic of the specific fast is that one does not overfill himself with food during the night. Instead, he eats in due measure, for indeed, the son of Aadam does not fill a vessel more evil than his stomach. If he were to eat his fill during the first part of the night, he would not make good use of himself for the remainder of the night. In the same way, if he eats to his fill for suhoor, he does make good use of himself until the afternoon. This is because excessive eating breads laziness and lethargy therefore, the objective of fasting disappears due to one's excessiveness in eating, for what is indeed intended by the fast, is that one savours the taste of hunger and becomes an abandoner of desires.

RECOMMENDED FASTS:

As for the recommended fasts, then know that preference for fasting is established in certain virtuous days. Some of these virtuous days happen every year, such as fasting the first six days of Shawwaal after Ramadhaan, fasting the day of ’Arafah, the day of ’Ashooraa, and the ten days of Dhul-Hijjah and Muharram. Some of them occur every month, such as the first part of the month, the middle part of it, and the last part of it. So whoever fasts the first part of it, the middle part of it and the last part of it, then he has done well. Some fasts occur every week, and they are every Monday and Thursday. The most virtuous of the recommended fasts is the fast of Daawood. He would fast one day and break his fast the next day. This achieves the following three objectives, the soul is given its share on the day the fast is broken. And on the day of fasting, it completes its share in full. The day of eating is the day of giving thanks and the day of fasting is the day of having patience. And Faith (eemaan) is divided into two halves- that of thankfulness and that of patience. [7] It is the most difficult struggle for the soul. This is because every time the soul gets accustomed to a certain condition, it transfers itself that. As for fasting every day, then it has been reported by Muslim, from the hadeeth of Aboo Qataadah that ’Umar (radiyallaahu ’anhu) asked the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam): What is the case if one were to fast everyday? So he (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said: ‘‘He did not fast nor did he break his fast or, he did not fast and he did not break his fast.’’ [8] This is concerning the one who fasts continuously, even during the days in which fasting is forbidden.

CHARACTERISITCS OF THE MORE SPECIFIC FASTS:

Know that the one who has been given intellect, knows the objective behind fasting. Therefore, he burdens himself to the extent that he will not be unable to do that which is more beneficial than it. Ibn Mas’ood would fast very little and it is reported that he used to say: ‘‘When I fast, I grow weak in my prayer. And I prefer the prayer over the (optional) fast.’’ Some of the Companions would weaken in their recitation of the Qur‘aan when fasting. Thus, they would exceed in breaking their fast (i.e.. by observing less optional fasts), until they were able to balance their recitation. Every individual is knowledgeable of his condition and of what will rectify it.

Footnotes:

[1] This article is taken from the book Mukhtasar Minhaajul-Qaasideen (p. 38-41) of the illustrious scholar and righteous Imaam, Ibn Qudaamah al-Maqdisee (d.529H). This article was translated by Isma'eel Ibn al-Arkaan and edited by Abu Khaliyl. There were also slight adaptions made to it, such as the exclusion of a couple of statements.
[2] Related by al-Bukhaaree (4/118) and Muslim (no. 1151).
[3] Sooratul-Hajj: 26
[4] Related by al-Bukhaaree (4/322) and Muslim (no. 1147).
[5] (Editors note: Additional comment is required here, The levels mentioned are levels of abstinence. The first of these three levels entails the abstinence which is fulfilled, the fast is considered complete in view of the one having met the legislated requirements [i.e. It does not have to be repeated or made up, the servant has indeed fasted.] The remaining levels deal with the value of the Fast. If the second is level is not met, the fast will be of less value to the servant, than if it were met and likewise for the third. Thus it is said that intentional eating and intercourse render the fast null and void, whereas committing other unlawful acts such, likes speaking falsely, placing the unlawful look to the opposite sex. And so on will constitute a sin of one degree or another, but not nullify the fast.
[6] Related by al-Bukhaaree (4/99)
[7] {Editors note: This statement is based upon an unauthentic Hadeeth, which has been reported by al-Kharaa‘itee and ad-Daylamee. One of its narrators was graded ‘‘abandoned’’ by an-Nisaa‘ee and adh-Dhahabee. Al-Manawee and al-Albaanee approved of its grading. See ad-Da’eefah (no. 625).

[8] Related by Muslim

He fasts but he does not pray

2011-06-28T21:22:00.000+02:00

Question: What is the ruling on the one who fasts (the month of) Ramadhaan but he abondons the prayer?

Answer: The Salaah (prayer) is the most important pillar of Islaam after Tawheed. So the one who does not pray, I fear that his fasting will not be accepted. Because a group from Ahl ul-’Ilm (the scholars) are of the opinion that the one who abondons Salaah has committed disbelief. Then I do not think the fast is correct of the one who does not pray. Praying is more important than fasting.

Posted on: Tuesday, November 11th, 2003 @ 4:20 pm
Written by/Said by: Shaykh Saalih ibn 'Abdul 'Azeez Aal ash-Shaykh
Taken from: Fataawa Muhimma fi Masaa'il Tata'allaq as-Siyaam

The permissibility of women attending Taraweeh

2011-06-28T21:20:00.002+02:00

Question: What is the ruling on women attending Salaat at-Taraweeh and what is better regarding that?

Answer: The attendance of the women is permissible on the condition that the women avoid (wearing) perfume and (revealing their) beauty. And if they prayed in their houses, then that is better.

Posted on: Tuesday, November 11th, 2003 @ 4:20 pm
Written by/Said by: Shaykh Saalih ibn 'Abdul 'Azeez Aal ash-Shaykh
Taken from: Fataawa Muhimma fi Masaa'il Tata'allaq as-Siyaam

The basis for Salaat at-Taraweeh

2011-06-28T21:18:00.000+02:00

Question: Why was it (Salaat at-Taraweeh) named “Salaat at-Taraweeh” and what is the basis for it?

Answer: It is named because of this saying: “Because they relax (yartahoon) after every two rak’ah from the long (periods of) standing (during prayer).”

And its basis is the action of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) where he prayed with the people on the first day, and on the second day. Except the masjid was filled on the third day and he did not come out to them fearing that it may become an obligation for them. Except he (صلى الله عليه وسلم) died and ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab (رضي الله عنه), gathered them behind a single Imaam. ^[1]

^{^[1] Translator’s Note: From a Saheeh hadeeth narrated by ‘Urwa, reported in Saheeh al-Bukhaari. It was reported: “…So, Allaah’s Messenger died and the situation remained like that (i.e. people prayed individually)…”
So people prayed Taraweeh individually after his death and it remained like that until the Khilaafah of ‘Umar ibn al-Khattaab who gathered the people together in congregation for Salaat at-Taraweeh, as the Prophet (Sallallahu ‘Alaihi Wa Sallam) did.

Posted on: Tuesday, November 11th, 2003 @ 4:20 pm
Written by/Said by: Shaykh Saalih ibn 'Abdul 'Azeez Aal ash-Shaykh
Taken from: Fataawa Muhimma fi Masaa'il Tata'allaq as-}

Permissibility of using kohl

2011-06-28T21:14:00.000+02:00

Question: What is the ruling on the woman using kohl and other cosmetic tools during the daytime in Ramadhaan?

Answer: There is nothing preventing that.

Posted on: Tuesday, November 11th, 2003 @ 4:20 pm
Written by/Said by: Shaykh Saalih ibn 'Abdul 'Azeez Aal ash-Shaykh
Taken from: Fataawa Muhimma fi Masaa'il Tata'allaq as-Siyaam

The one who denies the obligation of Zakaah is a disbeliever

2011-06-28T21:11:00.000+02:00

Question: What is the ruling on the person who denies the obligation of Zakaah?

Answer: Whoever denies the obligation of Zakaah, then he is a disbeliever. This is because the obligation (of Zakaah) has been established in the Book and the Sunnah and by the Ijmaa’ (consensus of the scholars). The Most High said:

“Those who give not the Zakaah and they are disbelievers in the Hereafter.” - Fussilat (41):7

And it has come that Zakaah is connected to Salaah. So one of them does not rectify except with the other. And there are many ayaat and ahadeeth (concerning this). As for the one who is complacent about giving it out, then he is a faasiq (sinner). The ruler should educate him and take it from him by force. We ask Allaah for guidance for all.

Posted on: Tuesday, November 11th, 2003 @ 4:20 pm
Written by/Said by: Shaykh Saalih ibn 'Abdul 'Azeez Aal ash-Shaykh
Taken from: Fataawa Muhimma fi Masaa'il Tata'allaq as-Siyaam

Is it required to make intention (to fast) everyday in Ramadhaan

2011-06-28T01:48:00.000+02:00

Question: Is it required of me to make intention on each day from the days of the month of Ramadhaan or is it sufficient to make intention from the first of the month?

Answer: The intention of the Muslim from the first of the month of Ramadhaan is his intention to fast the whole month. And what does not apply to it is what necessitates the breaking of the fast, from travel or an illness or anything like this. Otherwise, the principle is that the intention of the Muslim from the first of the month is his intention to fast the whole month. And for this, he is prepared in his heart in every night of Ramadhaan, ready for his suhoor and for his iftaar without having a doubt about it.

Posted on: Tuesday, November 11th, 2003 @ 4:20 pm
Written by/Said by: Shaykh Saalih ibn 'Abdul 'Azeez Aal ash-Shaykh
Taken from: Fataawa Muhimma fi Masaa'il Tata'allaq as-Siyaam

Permissibility of using Siwaak during Ramadhaan

2011-06-28T01:42:00.000+02:00

Question: What is the ruling concerning the use of the siwaak (tooth stick) during Ramadhaan?

Answer: Using it (the siwaak) is permissible during the whole of Ramadhaan, during the day and the night; before the sunset and after the sunset. Because of the hadeeth of Ibn Rabi’ah: “I saw the Prophet cleaning his teeth with siwaak while he was fasting so many times as I can’t count.”

Posted on: Tuesday, November 11th, 2003 @ 4:20 pm
Written by/Said by: Shaykh Saalih ibn 'Abdul 'Azeez Aal ash-Shaykh
Taken from: Fataawa Muhimma fi Masaa'il Tata'allaq as-Siyaam

For whom is the fasting of Ramadhaan obligatory?

2011-06-27T15:13:00.001+02:00

Posted: Sep 26th, 2006
Author: Shaykh 'Abdul 'Azeez bin 'Abdullaah bin Baaz (rahimahullaah)
Source: Majmoo' Fataawaa wa Maqaalaat Mutnawwiah - volume 15

Question: For whom is the fasting of Ramadhaan obligatory? And what is the virtue of voluntary fasting?

Answer: The fast of Ramadhaan is obligatory upon every male and female Muslim who are Mukallaf (one who has accepted Islaam, is sane and has reached puberty). And it is highly recommended for the males and females, aged 7 and above, if they are able to handle it. And it is obligatory upon their guardians to command them with that, if they are able to handle it, like they commanded them with As-Salaat. And the basis for this is the statement of Allaah (azza wa jall):

“O you who believe! Observing As-Sawm (the fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqoon (the pious). [Observing Sawm (fasts)] for a fixed number of days, but if any of you is ill or on a journey, the same number (should be made up) from other days." – Al-Baqarah (2):183-184

Up until Allaah (Subhan'Allaah wa ta'ala) said:

“The month of Ramadhaan in which was revealed the Qur’aan, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong). So whoever of you sights (the crescent on the first night of) the month (of Ramadhaan i.e. is present at his home), he must observe Sawm (fasts) that month, and whoever is ill or on a journey, the same number [of days which one did not observe Sawm (fasts) must be made up] from other days."– Al-Baqarah (2):185

And the statement of the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayi wa sallam):

“Islaam is built upon five: The testimony that 'Laa Ilaaha Illa Allaah' (none has the right to be worshipped in truth except Allaah) and that 'Muhammadan Rasool Allaah' (Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah), the establishment of As-Salaat (prayer), the giving of Az-Zakaat (obligatory charity), fasting (the month of) Ramadhaan, and making Hajj (pilgrimage) to the House (the Ka'bah in Makkah).'"

Agreed upon its authenticity from the hadeeth of Ibn 'Umar (rahimahullaah).
And his statement (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) when Jibreel asked him about Islaam:

“Al-Islaam: That you testify that 'Laa Ilaaha Illa Allaah' (none has the right to be worshipped in truth except Allaah) and that 'Muhammadan Rasool Allaah' (Muhammad is the Messenger of Allaah), and that you establish As-Salaat, that you give Az-Zakaat, and that you fast (the month of) Ramadhaan, and that you make Hajj to the House if you are able to do so.''

Reported by Muslim in his Saheeh from the hadeeth of 'Umar ibn Al-Khattaab (radiAllaahu 'anhu) and it was reported with a different wording by the two Shaykhs (Al-Bukhaaree and Muslim) from the hadeeth of Abee Hurayra (radiAllaahu 'anhu).
And in the two Saheehs, upon Abee Hurayrah (radiAllaahu 'anhu) that the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said:

“Whoever fasts (the month of) Ramadhaan, with Eemaan, having hope for its reward, all his past sins will be forgiven."

And it has been established from him (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) that he said:

“Allaah (عز و جل) says: 'Every deed of the son of Adam, is given manifold reward, each good deed receiving ten times its like, up to seven hundred times. Except for fasting, for it is for Me and I will give reward for it. He leaves off his desires and his food for Me. And the fasting person has two times of happiness: The happiness when he breaks his fast and the happiness when he meets his Lord. And the smell coming from the mouth of the fasting person is better with Allaah than the smell of musk.''

And the ahadeeth regarding fasting the month of Ramadhaan and regarding fasting in general are many and well known. And Allaah is the grantor of success.

Slaughtering a sacrificial animal on the Night of Isra’ and Mi‘raj is a sin

2011-06-26T10:38:00.002+02:00

Slaughtering a sacrificial animal on the Night of Isra’ and Mi‘raj is a sin

From Muhammad ibn Ibrahim to our respected brother,

May Allah preserve you!

As-salamu ‘alaykum warahmatullah wabarakatuh (May Allah’s Peace, Mercy, and Blessings be upon you!)
Your letter to us dated on 21/7/1387 A.H. reached us. In this letter you stated that after giving birth to a child in Sha‘ban, your mother vowed to offer a sacrificial animal on the 27th of Rajab every year. She has continued fulfilling her vow for 28 years. Now she is asking about the ruling on this vow.
A: This is an invalid vow that must not be fulfilled because it involves the following sin:
(Part No. 77; Page No. 49)

The month of Rajab used to be glorified by the people of Jahiliyyah (pre-Islamic time of ignorance). Also, the 27th night of this month is thought by some people to be the Night of Isra’ (Night Journey) and Mi‘raj (Ascension to Heaven). Thus, they consider it to be a feast, where they would gather and practice acts of Bid‘ah (innovation in religion). The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) forbade fulfilling a vow at the places where the people of Jahiliyyah used to hold their feasts or at places where animals are sacrificed for other than the Sake of Allah, The Almighty. Thabit Ibn Al-Dahhak (may Allah be pleased with him) related: A man vowed to sacrifice camels in Buwanah during the lifetime of the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him). So, he came to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and said, ‘I have vowed to sacrifice camels in Buwanah.’ The Prophet (peace be upon him) asked, ‘Was any of the idols of Jahiliyyah worshipped there?’ They said, ‘No.’ He asked, ‘Was any of their feasts celebrated there?’ They said, ‘No.’ The Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said, ‘Fulfill your vow, for there should be no fulfillment of a vow which involves disobedience to Allah, or with regard to a thing the son of Adam does not own.’ (Related by Abu Dawud; its Isnad [chain of narrators] meets the stipulations of Al-Bukhari and Muslim) As-salamu ‘alaykum (May Allah’s Peace be upon you)!

The Mufty of Saudi Arabia

25/9/1387 A.H.

Source: Islamic Research Journal

Yearly sacrifice on the 27th of Rajab

2011-06-26T10:37:00.001+02:00

Yearly sacrifice on the 27th of Rajab

(Part No. 23; Page No. 374)

Fatwa no. 20725

Q: Every time I used to give birth to a baby boy, he would die. When I once gave birth to a baby boy, I vowed that if he lived, I would offer a yearly sacrifice on the 27th of Rajab, which is what people call Rajabiyah. I then fulfilled the vow for years until I knew that this sacrifice is a Bid‘ah (innovation in religion). Now, I fear that my choice of this day may be sinful. Is it permissible for me to fulfill my vow on this day specifically or should I change it or there is nothing wrong with this? Please, advise. May Allah reward you!

A: You must slaughter the animal and offer its meat to the poor and the needy each year as you vowed, out of gratitude to Allah (Exalted be He), but on any day other than the one you specified, i.e., the twenty-seventh of Rajab.

May Allah grant us success! May peace and blessings of Allah be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, and Companions!

Permanent Committee for Scholarly Research and Ifta’

Member	Member	Member	Deputy Chairman	Chairman
Bakr Abu Zayd	Salih Al-Fawzan	`Abdullah ibn Ghudayyan	`Abdul-`Aziz Al Al-Shaykh	`Abdul-`Aziz ibn `Abdullah ibn Baz

Source: Fatwas of Permanent Committee

Ruling on celebrating the night of the twenty-seventh of Rajab and the night of the middle of Sha‘ban

2011-06-26T10:35:00.004+02:00

Ruling on celebrating the night of the twenty-seventh of Rajab and the night of the middle of Sha‘ban

Q: Regarding the night of the twenty-seventh of Rajab and the night of the middle of Sha‘ban, Muslims are used to celebrating them every year where they serve greasy foods and suchlike. What is your opinion regarding this?

A: These are two Bid‘ahs (innovations in religion): Celebrating the night of the twenty-seventh of Rajab and the night of the middle of Sha‘ban are two Bid‘ahs based on no evidence. It is not proven that the Prophet (peace be upon him) stated that the night of the twenty-seventh of Rajab is the Night of Isra’ (Night Journey) and Mi‘raj (Ascension to Heaven). The Hadiths related in this regard are not Sahih (authentic) according to scholars. Even if it is proven that this night is the Night of Mi‘raj, it is not permissible to celebrate it because neither the Messenger (peace be upon him) nor his Sahabah (Companions of the Prophet) - who are our example to pattern after - celebrated it.

<><> <><> <><> <><> <><> <><> <><>

(Part No. 3; Page No. 105)

Allah (Exalted be He) says: Certainly, there has been in them an excellent example for you to follow This includes both what they did and what they forbore to do. In other words, whatever the Prophet (peace be upon him) left we must leave and whatever he (peace be upon him) did we must do. Thus, celebrating the night of the middle of Sha‘ban or that of the twenty-seventh of Rajab on the grounds that it is the Night of Isra’ and Mi‘raj, or celebrating the occasion of the Mawlid (birthday) of the Prophet (peace be upon him) at the twelfth of Rabi‘ Al-Awal or other Mawlids like that of Al-Badawy, Al-Husayn, ‘Abdul-Qadir Al-Jilany, or such-and-such a person, all this is not permissible and typifies an imitation of the Jews and Christians regarding their feasts. The Messenger (peace be upon him) forbade patterning after them when he said: Anyone who imitates a people is one of them. It is not befitting for Muslims to imitate the opponents of Allah neither in these matters nor in any other matters. Had celebrating the night of the middle of Sha‘ban been lawful, it would have been done first by the master of the descendants of Adam (peace be upon him) who is the best of Allah’s Creation and the Last of the Messengers (peace be upon him). He (peace be upon him) would have legislated and taught it to his Ummah (nation based on one creed), because he (peace be upon him) is the sincerest of all people, who advised honestly and truthfully. He (peace be upon him) guided his followers to every good he knew for them and warned them against every evil he knew for them, as authentically reported in the Sahih (Authentic Hadith Book) of Muslim on the authority of ‘Abdullah ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with them both) that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: There was never a prophet before me except that it was a duty upon him that he should guide his Ummah to what he knew was good for them and warn them against what he knew was evil for them. Certainly, our Prophet (peace be upon him) is the best of the prophets, most perfect and the last of them all.
<><> <><> <><> <><> <><> <><> <><>

(Part No. 3; Page No. 106)

There shall be no prophet after him, and so he (peace be upon him) is the worthiest of fulfilling this description. He (peace be upon him) left no good but he guided us to it and no evil but he warned us against it. Had celebrating the night of the middle of Sha‘ban, the Mawlid of the Prophet, or the night of the twenty-seventh of Rajab been lawful, the Prophet (peace be upon him) would have preceded us to it both in stating and putting it into action. He (peace be upon him) would have taught it to his Ummah. Had he so done, this would have been reported by the Sahabah (may Allah be pleased with them) who are the most trustworthy and the best people after the prophets, and it is they who reported for us both the Qur’an and the Sahih (authentic) Sunnah from the Prophet (peace be upon him). They are the Imams and the examples for us to pattern after, following the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him). Thus, it is not permissible for us to contradict them and innovate what they did not practice from acts of worship or means of drawing closer to Allah. Moreover, those who followed them exactly in faith did not practice this. Had the Sahabah done this, the Tabi‘un (Followers, the generation after the Companions of the Prophet) and then their followers would have so done. Since the three best generations of Islam did not celebrate either the Mawlid of the Prophet, or the night of the middle of Sha‘ban, or the night of the twenty-seventh of Rajab, it is to be known that these practices are among the Bid‘ahs introduced by people. Moreover, if the people of the second or third generation innovated something, this does not constitute an evidence of legitimacy because any evidence stems only from what the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his Sahabah did. As for this Bid‘ah - the practice of celebrating the Mawlid of the Prophet - it had no existence either at the lifetime of the Prophet (peace be upon him) or at the lifetime of the first, second or third generation. Rather, it was introduced in the fourth generation. The same applies to all other Bid‘ahs, it is obligatory to leave and beware of them. These Bid‘ahs include what we have mentioned above i.e. the Bid‘ah of celebrating the Night of Mi‘raj, and the Bid‘ah of celebrating the night of the twenty-seventh of Rajab, and the Bid‘ah of celebrating the night of the middle of Sha‘ban.
<><> <><> <><> <><> <><> <><> <><>

(Part No. 3; Page No. 107)

There is also a Bid‘ah called Salat-ul-Ragha’ib (Prayer for great bounties or wishes). It is so called by some people who practice it on the first Friday of Rajab. It is also a newly-invented matter in religion. There are many Bid‘ahs being committed by people. May Allah protect all Muslims against them and may He grant them understanding in religion and may He grant them success to adhere to the Sunnah, not to exceed it and to beware of Bid‘ahs.

Source: Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

Ruling on slaughtering sacrificial animals on occasions like the middle of Sha‘ban

2011-06-26T10:35:00.000+02:00

Ruling on slaughtering sacrificial animals on occasions like the middle of Sha‘ban

Q: There is a custom in our country to slaughter sacrificial animals in occasions like the middle of Sha‘ban, the first day of Ramadan, the twenty-seventh of Rajab. Is it permissible to eat from these slaughtered animals?
A: With regard to slaughtering sacrificial animals in the middle of Sha‘ban or the twenty-seventh of Rajab, this is a baseless Bid‘ah (innovation in religion) that is neither permissible for one to do nor for any one to eat from it, because of the lack of evidence. Rather, this is practicing a Bid‘ah. As for slaughtering animals and giving them in charity during the month of Ramadan, seeking by it to draw oneself closer to Allah, Ramadan is a blessed month where it is ordained to expand efforts in giving alms and spending on the poor. Thus, if one slaughters animals for this purpose during Ramadan, Dhul-Hijjah or any other time, and gives them in charity then all this is good. Yet, to appoint the middle of Sha‘ban or the twenty-seventh of Rajab specifically - as done by some people celebrating this night - this is baseless in Shari‘ah (Islamic law). Rather, this is a Bid‘ah.

(Part No. 3; Page No. 21)

Source: Fatwas of Nur `Ala Al-Darb

The excellence of reading the Qur’aan

2011-06-25T23:34:00.002+02:00

Question: How many juz of the Qur’aan can a Muslim read in a day during Ramadhaan?

Answer: Read as much as what is easy for you but with the contemplation and comprehension of its meaning. As is in the saying of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم): “Whosoever reads an Ayaah from the Qur’aan will receive a reward for every letter. I do not say that Alif-laam-meem is a letter, rather Alif is a letter, Laam is a letter, and Meem is a letter.”

Posted on: Tuesday, November 11th, 2003 @ 4:20 pm
Written by/Said by: Shaykh Saalih ibn 'Abdul 'Azeez Aal ash-Shaykh
Taken from: Fataawa Muhimma fi Masaa'il Tata'allaq as-Siyaam

From the etiquettes of fasting

2011-06-25T23:33:00.000+02:00

Question: Eminent Shaykh, we hope for clarification about some of the preferred etiquettes of fasting so that we can benefit from it. May Allaah reward you with good.

Answer: From the preferred etiquettes of fasting is delaying the suhoor (pre-dawn meal) where one finishes (it) close to the appearance of fajr. Secondly, is to hurry in breaking the fast. And from the Sunnah is to increase in the remembrance of Allaah and to make tasbeeh (to say Subhan Allaah), and to make tahleel (to say Laa Ilaaha Illa Allaah), and to make tahmeed (to say Alhamdulillaah), and to recite the Qur’aan, and to do good deeds, and the greatest of them is the Salaat at-Taraweeh and safeguarding it.

Posted on: Tuesday, November 11th, 2003 @ 4:20 pm
Written by/Said by: Shaykh Saalih ibn 'Abdul 'Azeez Aal ash-Shaykh
Taken from: Fataawa Muhimma fi Masaa'il Tata'allaq as-Siyaam

Does haraam speech invalidate the fast?

2011-06-25T22:02:00.000+02:00

Posted on: Tuesday, November 11th, 2003 @ 4:20 pm
Written by/Said by: Shaykh Saalih ibn 'Abdul 'Azeez Aal ash-Shaykh
Taken from: Fataawa Muhimma fi Masaa'il Tata'allaq as-Siyaam

Question: Does the haraam (forbidden) speech, like backbiting and vulgar speech, invalidate the fast?

Answer: From a saheeh hadeeth of the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم):

“Whoever does not give up forged speech and evil actions, Allaah is not in need of his leaving his food and drink (i.e. Allaah will not accept his fasting.)”

And the forbidden and vulgar speech is from the speech of falsehood and ignorance. And it is forbidden outside of Ramadhaan and its prohibition is clearly proven during Ramadhaan. And this hadeeth contains a severe warning of these repugnant actions. But the correct opinion is that it does not invalidate the fast but it decreases its reward. And it is upon every Muslim to guard his fasting and subdue his soul and take control of it by its reins until it surrenders to the fasting.

The ruling on whoever only fasts and prays during Ramadhan

2011-06-23T18:10:00.002+02:00

Question:

If a person is active in fasting and praying only during Ramadhan, but he leaves off the prayer as Ramadhan ends, does he have a fast?

Answer:

The prayer is a pillar from the pillars of Islam, and it is the most emphasized pillar after the two Testimonies of Faith. It is from the mandatory duties upon the individuals, and whoever abandons it while rejecting its obligation or due to laxity or laziness, then he has disbelieved. In reference to those who fast Ramadhan and they only pray during Ramadhan, then this is an attempt to deceive Allah. What wicked people these are who do not know Allah except during Ramadhan. Thus, their fast is not acceptable while they are abandoning the prayer outside of Ramadhan.

Permanent Committee for Research and Verdicts
Fatawa Islamiyah Page no, 247 Vol: 2

Source: Fatwa Islaam

What is Prohibited and Disliked for the one Fasting

2011-06-16T05:46:00.001+02:00

AUTHOR: Shaikh Saalih Al-Fawzaan (hafidhahullaah)
SOURCE: Ittihaaf Ahlil-Eemaan bi-Duroos Shahri Ramadaan
PRODUCED BY: (the former) Al-Ibaanah (dot) com

All praise be to Allaah for His blessings and kindness. And may the peace and blessings be upon our prophet Muhammad, his family, Companions, and those who follow his guidance and stick to his Sunnah until the Day of Judgement. To proceed:

Know that there are certain manners to fasting that must be abided by and adhered to so that the fast could proceed in the way it was prescribed so that one could achieve its benefits, fulfill its objective and not find it discomforting and without benefit. This is as the Prophet (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “Perhaps all a person fasting derives from his fast is hunger and thirst.”

So fasting is not just the abandonment of food and drink only. Rather, it also entails abandoning improper statements and actions that are forbidden or disliked.

One of the Salaf once said: “The least form of fasting is leaving off food and drink.” This is since drawing near to Allaah by abandoning allowable things cannot be complete unless after drawing nearer to Him by abandoning what Allaah has prohibited under every circumstance. Even though a Muslim is obligated to abandon the unlawful at all times, it is even more binding upon him while he is fasting.

If one commits the unlawful in times other than when he is fasting, he is sinning and worthy of being punished. But if he commits it while fasting, then on top of being sinful and deserving of punishment, this affects his fast by it being either deficient or nullified.

So the person who truly observes the fast is he who withholds his stomach from food and drink, refrains his limbs from sins, restricts his tongue from vile and evil speech, restrains his ears from listening to songs, musical instruments, backbiting and gossip, and holds back his eyes from looking at the forbidden.

The Prophet (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “Whoever does not abandon false speech and acting upon it, then Allaah is not in need of him abandoning his food and drink.” [Reported by Al-Bukhaaree]

The person who is fasting must avoid backbiting, gossip and insulting others, based on what the two Shaikhs (Al-Bulkhaaree and Muslim) reported from Abu Hurairah (radyAllaahu ‘anhu) that he said, and it was raised as being a saying of the Prophet: “Fasting is armor. So if it is a day in which one of you is fasting, then he should not be vile in speech nor should he be sinful nor should he be ignorant. And if someone reviles him, then he should say: ‘I am a person that is fasting.’”

The word junnah (armor) is that which protects the one who wears it from the weapon of his opponent causing harm to him.

So fasting protects a person from falling into sins whose consequences are punishment in this world and the next. The word rafath in the hadeeth refers to lewd and immoral speech. Imaam Ahmad reported in marfoo’ form that the Prophet (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “Verily, fasting is armor so long as it is not pierced.” It was said: “What causes it to be pierced?” He (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: “Lying and Backbiting.”

This is proof that backbiting pierces the fast or makes a dent in it. When armor is pierced it is of no more use to the one wearing it. So in the same manner, when one’s fast is pierced, it is no longer any benefit to the one performing it.

Backbiting is as the Messenger of Allaah (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) explained it, and that is mentioning about your brother what he hates. It has been reported in the Musnad of Imaam Ahmad that this breaks the fast:

“Two women were once fasting during the lifetime of Allaah’s Messenger and they almost died of thirst. This was mentioned to the Prophet (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) but he turned away from (allowing) them (to break the fast). Then they were mentioned to him again, so he called for them and ordered them to vomit, i.e. throw up, what was in their stomachs. So they both vomited and filled up a bowl with puss, blood and pieces of flesh. Then the Prophet (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: ‘These two fasted by refraining from what Allaah made lawful for them. but they broke their fast by doing what Allaah made unlawful for them. One of them sat with the other and they began to eat from the flesh of people.’”

What transpired with these two women in the presence of the Messenger of Allaah (sallAllaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) from their vomiting vile and disgusting things – this was from the miracles that Allaah allowed to occur at the hand of His Messenger so that he could show the evil effects of backbiting to the people. Allaah says: “And do not backbite one another. Would one of you love to eat the flesh of his dead brother?”[Surah Al-Hujuraat: 12]

This hadeeth shows that backbiting breaks the fast. This is in the figurative sense, meaning it nullifies the reward of fasting.

May Allaah send His peace and blessings on our prophet, Muhammad, his family and Companions.

Terrorism - ang självmordsbombningen i sthlm 11-12-10

2010-12-12T17:35:00.002+01:00

Ensuring a Successful Ramadhaan

2010-08-10T19:44:00.001+02:00

Ensuring a Successful Ramadhaan
3049 Reads

The gates of the heavens have been opened, the doors of Hellfire closed and our accursed enemy, the Shayateen, are locked up. Ramadhaan is upon us, the blessed month of mercy, forgiveness and compassion.

Indeed, we are in need of such a blessed month, so that we may immerse ourselves in the remembrance of Allah ta'ala after having been heedless, turn our sights to the Hereafter after having retreated to the dunyaa, read the Book of Allah after it has been untouched, collecting dust on our shelves. Surely our state is a distressing one; our hearts have become hardened, we have lowered our barrier of taqwa, chasing after our whims and desires somehow, we have become of those who are negligent.

Yet the opportunity presents itself to humble oneself, return to Allah and seek His forgiveness. It is a month wherein we may purify our hearts and free ourselves from the stronghold of transgression. And what is it that causes such a transition? For some it may be the large congregation of Muslimeen in salaat, a renewed sense of gratefulness after food has touched your lips, spending long nights in taraweeh prayer, raising your hands in du'aa qunoot and hoping fervently for the mercy of Allah ta'ala. Even still it may be the emergence of the Muslimeen, the many greetings of salaam, the smiles and heartfelt words, reflecting sincerely over the Qur'aan, or performing itikaaf in the masaajid, There is a change in the air and it can readily be sensed, a breeze of wellness overtakes us, sprinkled with ihsaan and taqwa, as we strive to enjoin the good. Suddenly we realize that the Promise of Allah is true, and fearing His Threat and hoping for His Mercy, we increase ourselves in worship and remembrance.

The Son of Adam often makes excuses for themselves their faults and their shortcomings. Truly this is an obstacle in the way of change. The beauty of Ramadhaan is that it diminishes such obstacles. Tasting the sweetness of faith allows for contemplation, reflection and self-assessment, such that we may diagnose our faults, make tawbah (repentance) and seek to remedy our condition. And what better time to make a firm resolution of change than in the blessed month of Ramadhaan, when the melodious recitation of the Qur'aan is resounding in your ears, when your eyes look upon believers who congregate to worship their Lord, and when your mouth abstains from food and drink instilling within you self-discipline? Surely, the time is now, ya Muslimeen.

The virtues of Sawm are many; the special quality of this ibaadaah is found in its close connection with Allah ta'ala: He says, The Fast (Sawm) is for Me and I will reward it.'' [Bukhari and Muslim] This statement relays the high status granted to fasting. Moreover, fasting stifles desires and is ultimately a shield from the Hellfire. Abu Sa`eed al-Khudri relates that the Messenger of Allah salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam said : "Fasting is a shield with which a servant protects himself from the Fire" [Ahmad, Sahih] and likewise, "No servant fasts on a day in the path of Allah except that Allah removes the Hell Fire seventy years further away from his face." [Bukhari and Muslim] Another unique aspect of Sawm is that the reason behind the command is given. Allaah, the Exalted and Most High, says in the Noble Quraan:

O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may become people having Taqwaa. Soorah al-Baqarah 2:183

So the wisdom behind fasting is not just in preventing oneself from enjoyable and permissible things, but so that we may attain taqwaa. Therefore, the wisdom behind the prescription of Fasting is that the Muslim should increase in obedience to Allaah ta'ala in Ramadhaan, and become more obedient than he was before it.[1] Thus this blessed month does indeed facilitate change within the believer as they strive to increase themselves in worship. Having knowledge of the reason behind the legislation should motivate the believer to hasten to do good works, hoping to earn the pleasure of Allah ta'ala.

Know O Believer that the fast is not purely on a physical level - refraining from food and drink - but rather the complete fast involves œthe refraining of ones gaze, tongue, hands, feet, hearing and eyes, as well as the rest of his body parts from committing sinful acts. The one who is fasting lowers his gaze and safeguards his tongue from the repulsive speech that is forbidden, disliked, or which has no benefit, as well as controlling the rest of his body parts. [2] This is elucidated in a hadeeth by al-Bukhaaree: " Whosoever does not abandon false speech and the acting upon it, Allaah is not in need of his food and drink.'' [Bukhari]

Just as the life of this world, Ramadhaan shall come to an end. And while we may lament at the closing of this blessed month at having experienced a closer relationship to Allah ta'ala and an increased level of emaan. It may serve to be a beacon of light henceforth. Perhaps the key lies in realizing Ramadhaan's worth so that we do not use our limited time in vain. The rightly guided predecessors (As-Salif As-Salih) used to seek the forgiveness of Allaah and repent so much so that it was reported that they would supplicate to Allaah for six months that He would allow them to reach Ramadaan. If He allowed them to reach Ramadaan, they would fast, pray at night and supplicate for the next six months that He accepts the month of Ramadaan from them. [3] Such was their piety, and may we follow in their footsteps.

"If the Muslim is in a good state after Ramadaan, performing many good deeds and righteous actions, then this is a proof of acceptance. If the opposite is true, and he follows good with evil, and as soon as Ramadaan is over he follows on from this with sins, heedlessness and turning away from the obedience of Allaah, then this is a proof that it hasn't been accepted." [3] Let not the Eid celebration symbolize a return to the vice you were once in, for Alhamdulillah you have been shown the radiant light by way of Ramadhaan. Do not revisit the crooked path, but instead follow this nur and continue your beautiful journey seeking the Pleasure of Allah, seeking Al-Jannah, seeking His Face.

Surely we wish to be of the people of Taqwaa', and may Allah make it so. [Aameen].

References:

[1] Sunnahs Neglected During Ramadhaan Shaykh al Albaanee
[2] The Inner Secrets of Fasting Imaam Ibn Qudaamah al-Maqdisee
[3] A Successful Ramadhaan Shaykh Saalih Al Fawzaan

Your Sister in Islaam,
Bint Amina

http://www.calgaryislam.com/imembers/di ... 7b5d1246ee

2010-02-17T11:38:00.002+01:00

Question:

Noble Shaykh, how do we reconcile between the statement of the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam), “Whosoever desires to advise the ruler, then let him not do so publicly,” to the end of the hadeeth, and between the action of some of the Scholars of the Salaf in opposing the rulers publicly, such as Sa’eed Ibn Jubayr (d.95H), al-’Izz Ibn ’Abdus-Salaam (d.660H) and other than them. And may Allaah reward you with goodness.

Answer:

Firstly: With regards to the advise that is specific to the rulers of the Muslims whom Allaah has obligated upon their constituents that they obey them, respect them and supplicate for them privately and in public, as long as they offer the Prayer and keep the streets safe and carry out the prescribed punishments. So there is advice for them and there is enjoinment and prohibition for them in accordance with whatever is appropriate for their situation, their reality and their position. And this is what is indicated by the hadeeth. As for what has emanated from the two that have been mentioned by the questioner, then it does not amount to evidence that every person who desires to enjoin and prohibit can traverse the path of these two – rahimahumallaah. So the incidents that occurred from Sa’eed Ibn Jubayr (d.95H) and from al-’Izz Ibn ’Abdus-Salaam (d.660H), then the questioner does not know about the causes and the surrounding conditions that initially led them to advise openly.

Secondly: Let us suppose that the advice occurred publicly from the two aforementioned ones. However, the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said, “then let him not do so publicly.” Which of the two statements has more right to be followed: the statement of the infallible Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam), and it is an authentic hadeeth, or the statement of an individual itjihaad from one of the people of al-ijtihaad who erred?! So he will not be excluded from a reward if Allaah so wills, and he will be forgiven for the error. So this principle is, “When there has come a hadeeth, or there has come a text from the generality of the Book of Allaah and the Sunnah of the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam), and there has also come a statement from some of the Scholars opposing this text, then precedence is to be given to the confirmed text from Allaah and the confirmed text from the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) and we seek an excuse for the one who is from the people of al-itjihaad and has opposed the text.” As for the one who is not from the people of al-ijtihaad, but he puts himself forward and boldly becomes involved along with a group of mujtahideen whilst he has not mastered the formative elements of al-ijtihaad, then this one has committed a crime against himself and he has committed a crime against other than himself. And the extent of this crime could be restricted or it could be unrestricted.

So the point of this is that there is no contradiction or conflict between the action of two individuals and the statement of the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam), “So do not do so publicly, but take him by his hand and take him into privacy. So if he accepts his advice, then he has achieved his objective. And if he refuses, then he has offered that which was upon him.” [1]

We praise Allaah the Mighty and Majestic that this is the correct path which the Scholars of the Salaf and their followers in every time from amongst the times agreed with due to their knowledge and understanding of the proofs in every topic from amongst the topics of knowledge and action. And this is a great blessing and it is from the justice of the Salafee manhaj. So he is devoid of this blessing and he is not successful with it, because he has not sought it truthfully and he has not traversed its paths. So it is upon us to strive hard in attaining knowledge, understanding and information and to take from the Scholars who have firm, sagacious and correct understandings. And we must abandon the affair of these ijtihaadaat which are only from the aspect of interpretations and from the aspect of deceptions. That is because the student in middle school, high school, or at the university level has no right to speak with ijtihaad, until he firmly plants his feet in the knowledge, takes from the Scholars and comes to know the limits of ijtihaad. Then, once the people of authority have testified that he is from amongst the people of al-ijtihaad, then he may speak concerning the issues in which ijtihaad is correct. If not, then no.

Footnotes:

[1]: Hasan: Related by Ahmad (3/403) and Ibn Abee ’Aasim in Kitaabus-Sunnah (2/251). It was declared hasan by al-Albaanee in Dhilaalul-Jannah fee Takhreejis-Sunnah (no. 1096).

Shaykh Zayd al-Madkhalee

Taken from al-’Iqdul-Munaddadil-Jadeed (p. 83-85).

Translated by Maaz Qureshi

bad speech and backbiting, does it affect the fasting?

2009-09-13T12:32:00.000+02:00

Backbiting and slandering whilst fasting
*Please appropriately reference this fatwa to: www.fatwa-online.com, thankyou!*
Question: Does backbiting and slandering during the day in Ramadhaan break the fast?

Response: Backbiting and slandering does not break the fast. However, it reduces the effect of the fast. Allaah (subhaanahu wa-ta'aala) says: {O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become al-Muttaqoon (the pious)} [Soorah al-Baqarah, Aayah 183]. Also, the Prophet (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam) said: ((One who does not abandon evil talk and actions and ignorance then Allaah is not in need of him abandoning food and water (whilst fasting) )).

Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen
Fataawa Ramadhaan - Volume 2, Page 518, Fatwa No. 482;
al-Fataawa lbni-'Uthaymeen - Kitaab ad-Da'waah, Volume 1, Page 166-167

Bad speech during the month of Ramadhaan
*Please appropriately reference this fatwa to: www.fatwa-online.com, thankyou!*
Question: Does impermissible (Haraam) speech during the day in Ramadhaan nullify the fast?

Response: If we read the saying of Allaah (subhaanahu wa-ta'aala), {O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become al-Muttaqoon (the pious)} [Soorah al-Baqarah, Aayah 183], we find the wisdom behind the obligation to fast is attaining fear of Allaah (Taqwah) and worshipping Allaah. Taqwah is to abandon all that is haraam and incorporating all that is commanded, avoiding all that is warned against. The Prophet (sal-Allaahu 'alayhe wa-sallaam) said: ((One who does not abandon evil talk and actions, then Allaah is not in need of him abandoning his food and drink (i.e. his fasting)). Based upon this, it is confirmation (for the one who is fasting) to abandon all that is haraam from speech and actions so as not to backbite, lie, slander or trade in haraam. So, keep away from haraam, and if a person were to do this throughout the entire month (of Ramadhaan), he would find himself upright for the rest of the year. Sadly, however, many people who fast do not differentiate between the time in which they fast and when they aren't It has became a norm whereby they indulge in haraam speech, lying, cheating and so on. They don't feel upon the peace and tranquility of the fast. These actions (of bad speech etc.) do not nullify the fast but do reduce the reward and, possibly, deflects the reward for the fast completely and Allaah's Assistance is sought.

Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen
Faatwa Ramadhaan, Volume 2, Page 520, Fatwa No. 485;
Fataawa ash-Shaykh Muhammad as-Saalih al-'Uthaymeen - Volume 1, Page 501-502

Second Hand Smoke and Fasting

2009-09-12T14:47:00.000+02:00

Question: We know that smoking is prohibited, however what is the evidence that it breaks your fast? What about second hand smoke, does it break ones fast?

Reespons: Whatever enters your throat may Allaah bless you; is either in the form of food, drink or whatever takes their ruling. Smoke is in reality, something that was previously solid that turned into smoke [by burning in this case]. So if a person breathes in this smoke, [some of it] turns back into a liquid form, and any liquid that enters a person’s throat invalidates his fast.
Smoking is prohibited to begin with, because it is harmful. The scholars state that this smoke turns into a liquid after it is breathed in, and it is this liquid that brakes your fast.
Likewise even Bakhoor (incense), which is a fragrance in the form of smoke, the scholars say that it is not permissible for a fasting person to breathe it in because it turns into a liquid.
As far as second hand smoke, if a smoker is next to you, you must take the necessary precautions by closing your mouth and nostrils, or ask him/her to stop smoking, just as you would do if you came across a small sand storm [i.e you would cover your mouth and nostrils].

Shaykh Muhammad ibn 'Abdil Wahhaab al 'Aqeel

Ensure a successful Ramadhaan

2009-09-11T22:06:00.002+02:00

The gates of the heavens have been opened, the doors of Hellfire closed and our accursed enemy, the Shayateen, are locked up. Ramadhaan is upon us, the blessed month of mercy, forgiveness and compassion.
Indeed, we are in need of such a blessed month, so that we may immerse ourselves in the remembrance of Allah ta'ala after having been heedless, turn our sights to the Hereafter after having retreated to the dunyaa, read the Book of Allah after it has been untouched, collecting dust on our shelves. Surely our state is a distressing one; our hearts have become hardened, we have lowered our barrier of taqwa, chasing after our whims and desires somehow, we have become of those who are negligent.

Yet the opportunity presents itself to humble oneself, return to Allah and seek His forgiveness. It is a month wherein we may purify our hearts and free ourselves from the stronghold of transgression. And what is it that causes such a transition? For some it may be the large congregation of Muslimeen in salaat, a renewed sense of gratefulness after food has touched your lips, spending long nights in taraweeh prayer, raising your hands in du'aa qunoot and hoping fervently for the mercy of Allah ta'ala. Even still it may be the emergence of the Muslimeen, the many greetings of salaam, the smiles and heartfelt words, reflecting sincerely over the Qur'aan, or performing itikaaf in the masaajid, There is a change in the air and it can readily be sensed, a breeze of wellness overtakes us, sprinkled with ihsaan and taqwa, as we strive to enjoin the good. Suddenly we realize that the Promise of Allah is true, and fearing His Threat and hoping for His Mercy, we increase ourselves in worship and remembrance.

The Son of Adam often makes excuses for themselves their faults and their shortcomings. Truly this is an obstacle in the way of change. The beauty of Ramadhaan is that it diminishes such obstacles. Tasting the sweetness of faith allows for contemplation, reflection and self-assessment, such that we may diagnose our faults, make tawbah (repentance) and seek to remedy our condition. And what better time to make a firm resolution of change than in the blessed month of Ramadhaan, when the melodious recitation of the Qur'aan is resounding in your ears, when your eyes look upon believers who congregate to worship their Lord, and when your mouth abstains from food and drink instilling within you self-discipline? Surely, the time is now, ya Muslimeen.

The virtues of Sawm are many; the special quality of this ibaadaah is found in its close connection with Allah ta'ala: He says, The Fast (Sawm) is for Me and I will reward it.'' [Bukhari and Muslim] This statement relays the high status granted to fasting. Moreover, fasting stifles desires and is ultimately a shield from the Hellfire. Abu Sa`eed al-Khudri relates that the Messenger of Allah salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam said : "Fasting is a shield with which a servant protects himself from the Fire" [Ahmad, Sahih] and likewise, "No servant fasts on a day in the path of Allah except that Allah removes the Hell Fire seventy years further away from his face." [Bukhari and Muslim] Another unique aspect of Sawm is that the reason behind the command is given. Allaah, the Exalted and Most High, says in the Noble Quraan:

O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may become people having Taqwaa. Soorah al-Baqarah 2:183

So the wisdom behind fasting is not just in preventing oneself from enjoyable and permissible things, but so that we may attain taqwaa. Therefore, the wisdom behind the prescription of Fasting is that the Muslim should increase in obedience to Allaah ta'ala in Ramadhaan, and become more obedient than he was before it.[1] Thus this blessed month does indeed facilitate change within the believer as they strive to increase themselves in worship. Having knowledge of the reason behind the legislation should motivate the believer to hasten to do good works, hoping to earn the pleasure of Allah ta'ala.

Know O Believer that the fast is not purely on a physical level - refraining from food and drink - but rather the complete fast involves œthe refraining of ones gaze, tongue, hands, feet, hearing and eyes, as well as the rest of his body parts from committing sinful acts. The one who is fasting lowers his gaze and safeguards his tongue from the repulsive speech that is forbidden, disliked, or which has no benefit, as well as controlling the rest of his body parts. [2] This is elucidated in a hadeeth by al-Bukhaaree: " Whosoever does not abandon false speech and the acting upon it, Allaah is not in need of his food and drink.'' [Bukhari]

Just as the life of this world, Ramadhaan shall come to an end. And while we may lament at the closing of this blessed month at having experienced a closer relationship to Allah ta'ala and an increased level of emaan. It may serve to be a beacon of light henceforth. Perhaps the key lies in realizing Ramadhaan's worth so that we do not use our limited time in vain. The rightly guided predecessors (As-Salif As-Salih) used to seek the forgiveness of Allaah and repent so much so that it was reported that they would supplicate to Allaah for six months that He would allow them to reach Ramadaan. If He allowed them to reach Ramadaan, they would fast, pray at night and supplicate for the next six months that He accepts the month of Ramadaan from them. [3] Such was their piety, and may we follow in their footsteps.

"If the Muslim is in a good state after Ramadaan, performing many good deeds and righteous actions, then this is a proof of acceptance. If the opposite is true, and he follows good with evil, and as soon as Ramadaan is over he follows on from this with sins, heedlessness and turning away from the obedience of Allaah, then this is a proof that it hasn't been accepted." [3] Let not the Eid celebration symbolize a return to the vice you were once in, for Alhamdulillah you have been shown the radiant light by way of Ramadhaan. Do not revisit the crooked path, but instead follow this nur and continue your beautiful journey seeking the Pleasure of Allah, seeking Al-Jannah, seeking His Face.

Surely we wish to be of the people of Taqwaa', and may Allah make it so. [Aameen].

References:

[1] Sunnahs Neglected During Ramadhaan Shaykh al Albaanee
[2] The Inner Secrets of Fasting Imaam Ibn Qudaamah al-Maqdisee
[3] A Successful Ramadhaan Shaykh Saalih Al Fawzaan

Your Sister in Islaam,
Bint Amina

SaddaqAllahul Adheem?

2009-09-11T22:05:00.003+02:00

By Shaykh Yahyaa Ibn 'Alee al-Hajooree
Translated by Maaz Qureshi [1]

So after mentioning the two aayaat, he says, ‘Sadaqallaahul-'Adheem (Allaah the Magnificent has spoken the truth,)' yet there is no evidence for this statement upon completion of reciting the Qur‘aan, whether it is only one aayah or more. So there occurs in the Saheeh of al-Bukhaaree (no. 4582) and Muslim (no. 800) from the hadeeth of 'Abdullaah Ibn Mas'ood (radiyallaahu 'anhu) who said, “The Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said to me, ‘Read for me.' I said, ‘O Messenger of Allaah, I am to recite for you whilst you are the one upon whom it has been revealed!' He said, ‘Yes.' So I recited Sooratun-Nisaa‘ until I came to this aayah,

“So how will it be when We bring from every nation a witness, and We bring you as a witness over these people?” [Sooratun-Nisaa‘ 4:41]

He said, ‘That is enough for now.' So I turned to him and found tears flowing from his eyes.” So neither Ibn Mas'ood, nor the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said, ‘sadaqallaahul-'adheem.' He only said, ‘This is enough.'

And al-Bukhaaree relates in his Saheeh (no. 6) and Muslim (no. 1308) from Ibn 'Abbaas (radiyallaahu 'anhu) who said, ‘The Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) was the most eloquent of the people in recitation. And the most eloquence in his speech came in Ramadaan when Jibreel ('alayhis-salaam) came to him. And he used to come to him at every night of Ramadaan. So he used to teach him the Qur‘aan.” And he did not say that Jibreel or Muhammad ('alayhimas-salaatu was-salaam) ever said ‘sadaqallaahul-'adheem' after completing anything from the Qur‘aan. [2]

And al-Bukhaaree relates in his Saheeh (no. 3809) and Muslim (no. 899) from the hadeeth of Anas Ibn Maalik (radiyallaahu 'anhu), that the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said to 'Ubayy, “Allaah has commanded me to recite to you,

“Those who disbelieved from the People of the Book.” [Sooratul-Bayyinah 98:1]

He said, “And He mentioned me by name?” He said, “Yes.” So he cried. And the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) did not say, ‘sadaqallaahul-'adheem,' after reciting this aayah.

And al-Bukhaaree relates in his Saheeh (no. 4474), from the hadeeth of Raafi' Ibn Mu'allaa (radiyallaahu 'anhu) that the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said, “Shall I not teach you the greatest soorah in the Qur‘aan before I leave the mosque?” So when the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) went to leave the mosque, he remembered his statement. So he said,

“The praise is for Allaah, Lord of the Worlds,” [Sooratul-Faatihah 1:1]

They are the seven oft-recited verses. And the Magnificent Qur‘aan is that which I have been given.” And he did not say ‘sadaqallaahul-'adheem.'

And it has been authentically related in the Sunan of Abee Daawood (no. 1400) and at-Tirmidhee (no. 2893), from the hadeeth of Aboo Hurayrah (radiyallaahu 'anhu), that the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) said, “A soorah from the Qur‘aan consists of thirty aayaat and it serves as an intercessor for its reciter, until he is forgiven.

“Blessed is He, in Whose Hand is the kingdom.” [Sooratul-Mulk 67:1].”

And he did not say, ‘sadaqallaahul-'adheem.'

And there occurs in al-Bukhaaree (no. 4952) and Muslim (no. 494) from the hadeeth of al-Baraa‘ Ibn 'Aazib (radiyallaahu 'anhu) who said, “I heard the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) recite in al-'Ishaa‘,

“By the fig and the olive.” [Sooratut-Teen 95:1]

So I did not hear anyone with a voice better than his.” And he did not say, ‘sadaqallaahul-'adheem.'

And Muslim relates in his Saheeh (no. 873), from the hadeeth of Ibnah Haarithah Bintun-Nu'maan (radiyallaahu 'anhaa) who said, ‘I did not memorize,

“Qaaf. The majestic Qur‘aan.” [Soorah Qaaf 50:1]

except by the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam) reciting it every Friday.” And it was not said that he stated, ‘sadaqallaahul-'adheem,' nor did she used to say after reciting the aayaat of Soorah Qaaf, ‘sadaqallaahul-'adheem.'

So if we go through a number of suwar and aayaat which were read by the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu 'alayhi wa sallam), his Companions and those who followed them in goodness from the three virtuous generations, we will find that none of them used to do this. So in what we have mentioned is sufficiency for clarifying that the statement, ‘sadaqallaahul-'adheem,' after reciting the Qur‘aan is a newly invented innovation which has no preceding example in the early generations.

Footnotes:

[1] Taken from Subhush-Shaariq (p. 22-24) of Shaykh Yahyaa Ibn 'Alee Hajooree. [2] Shaykh Ahmad an-Najmee – hafidhahullaah – adds, “The statement ‘sadaqallaahul-'adheem' is an innovation along with the fact that it is obligatory to believe in the meaning of these words in our hearts. Allaah the Exalted said, “And who is more truthful than Allaah in speech?” [Sooratun-Nisaa‘ 4:122] “And who is more truthful than Allaah in statement?” [Sooratun-Nisaa‘ 4:87] So whomsoever rejects Allaah, then he is a disbeliever or a hypocrite.”

i´tikaaf

2009-09-10T22:50:00.001+02:00

The meaning of "i'tikaaf" and its ruling
*Please appropriately reference this fatwa to: www.fatwa-online.com, thankyou!*
Question: We would like to know what is meant by "i'tikaaf" and it's ruling?

Response: I'tikaaf is for a person to confine himself to the masjid in obedience to Allaah (Subhaanahu wa Ta'aala) so as to separate himself from the people and free himself (from the chores of daily life) to exert himself in worshipping Allaah. This can take place in any masjid, whether it is a masjid in which people gather for the Jumu'ah prayer or not. However, it is better (to perform the i'tikaaf) in a masjid in which the people gather for the Jumu'ah prayer so that one performing i'tikaaf is not forced to leave the masjid (in which he is doing i'tikaaf) to go to another masjid for the Jumu'ah prayer.

Shaykh Ibn 'Uthaymeen
Fataawa Ramadhaan - Volume 2, Page 861, Fatwa No.846
Fiqh al-'Ibaadaat - Page 208

The conditions of i'tikaaf
*Please appropriately reference this fatwa to: www.fatwa-online.com, thankyou!*
Question: What are the conditions of i'tikaaf, and is fasting one of them? Is it permissible for the person in i'tikaaf to visit a sick person, answer an invitation, fulfil some of his family's needs, or go to work?

Response: I'tikaaf is prescribed in a masjid in which the congregational prayer is established. If the person in i'tikaaf is from those upon whom Friday prayers are obligatory and the length of his i'tikaaf includes a Friday, then it is better to be in a masjid in which Friday prayers are established. Fasting is not (a) necessary (part of it). The sunnah is that he does not visit the sick during his i'tikaaf and that he does not answer the invitation, nor fulfil the needs of his family. He should not witness the funeral (by following it) and he should not go to work outside the masjid. This is due to what has been authenticated on the authority of 'Aa.ishah (radhi-yallaahu `anhaa) that she said: ((the sunnah for he who is in i'tikaaf is that he does not visit the sick nor witness a funeral, nor touch a woman (his wife), nor have intercourse with her nor leave to fulfil a need except that which is necessary)).

And with Allaah lies all the success, and may Allaah send prayers and salutations upon our Prophet Muhammad (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam) and his family and his companions.

The Permanent Committee for Islaamic Research and Fataawa, comprising -
Head: Shaykh 'Abdul 'Azeez ibn Abdullaah ibn Baaz;
Deputy Head: Shaykh 'Abdur-Razzaaq 'Afeefee;
Member: Shaykh 'Abdullaah Ibn Qu'ood
Fataawa Ramadhaan - Volume 2, Page 862, Fatwa No.848;
Fataawa al-Lajnah ad-Daa.imah lil-Buhooth al-'Ilmiyyah wal-Iftaa. - Fatwa No.6718

Bringing children to the masjid?

2009-09-10T22:45:00.000+02:00

Question:

Some of the people come to the Masjid and they have their children with them who have not reached the age of discernment and they cannot pray properly. These children line up in the rows with those who are offering prayer and some of them fidget (or play frivolously) and disturb those who are around them. So, what is the ruling on this? And what is your advice to the parents of such children?

Answer:

I think that bringing children (to the Masjid) who will disturb those who are offering prayer is not permissible, because in that is a disturbance for the Muslims who are performing an obligation from the obligations of Allah. The Prophet heard some of his companions praying and reciting aloud, so he said:

"You all should not raise your voices over each other in recitation." (Ahmad 2:36, 67)

In another Hadith he said:

"You all should not harm (or bother) one another." (Abu Dawud no.1332)

Thus, everything that contains something that bothers those who are offering prayer, is not permissible for the person to do it.

Hence my advice to the parents of such children is that they do not bring them to the Masjid and they seek guidance in that which the Prophet directed to when he said:

"Command your children to pray when they are seven and beat them about (not offering) it when they are ten." (Abu Dawud no. 494,495 and Ahmad 2:187)

Likewise, I also direct advice to the people of the Masjid to open their hearts to the children whose coming to (i.e, presence in) the Masjid is legislated (in the Shariah). They should not make things difficult on them or remove them from their places (in the prayer lines) that they came to first. For verily, whoever is the first to come to something, he has the most right to it, regardless of whether he is a child or an adult. Hence, moving the children away from their places in the row contains:

(1)Disregard of their right, because whoever comes to something first-that no one of the Muslims has beaten him to-then he has the most right to it.

(2)It discourages them from attending the Masjids.

(3)It contains the possibility of the child carrying hatred and dislike for the person who removed him from the place that he came to first.

(4)It leads to the children being gathered together (in the row) and they end up playing and causing disturbance to the people of the Masjid that would not have occurred if the children were between the adult men.

In reference to what some of the people of knowledge have mentioned regarding the child being removed from his place so that the child is made to stand at the end of the row or in the last row in the Masjid, using as a proof the Prophets statement:

"Let those of understanding and intelligence be near to me (in the prayer)." (Muslim no. 432)

This opinion is not correct and in opposition to the prophet's statement:

"Whoever comes first to what no on else has beaten him to, then he has the most right to it." (Abu Dawud no. 3071)

Also, their using the evidence, the prophets statement:

"Let those of understanding and intelligence be near to me (in the prayer)." (Muslim no. 432)

This is not complete (in the way they use it), because the meaning of the Hadith is to encourage those of intellect and understanding to come forward so that they may be near the Prophet. This is because they are closer to correct understanding than the younger people, and more proficient in understanding what they saw from the Prophet or what they heard. The Prophet did not say,

"No one but those of understanding and intellect should be near me (in prayer)."

If the Prophet had said,

"No one but those of understanding and intellect should be near me (in prayer)."

then the opinion of removing the children from their places in the front rows would be acceptable. However, the manner in which this Hadith has been worded is merely his command to those of understanding and intellect to come forward so that they may be near the Messenger of Allah.

Shaykh Muhammad bin Saalih al-`Uthaymeen

Fatawa Islamiyah, Vol. 3, p26-29, DARUSSALAM.

Who are the scholars? ulama? LINKS!

2009-09-10T12:49:00.002+02:00

Click! on the name you want to read more about, in English or Arabic.

	Scholars		المشايخ

Ahmad ibn ‘Abdur Rahmaan ibn Qudaamah al Maqdisee

أحمد بن عبد الرحمن بن قدامة المقدسي

Al 'Allaamah 'Abdul Muhsin al 'Abbaad

العلامة عبد المحسن العباد

Al 'Allaamah 'Abdur Rahmaan Ibn Naasir as Sa'dee

العلامة عبد الرحمن بن ناصر السعدي

Al 'Allaamah Ahmad ibn 'Abdillaah at Tardaawee

العلامة أحمد بن عبد الله الطرداوي

Al 'Allaamah Muhammad Amaan al Jaamee

العلامة محمد بن علي بن امان الجامي

Al 'Allaamah Muhammad ibn Saalih al 'Uthaymeen

العلامة محمد بن صالح العثيمين

Al 'Allaamah Muhammad Naasiruddeen al Albaanee

العلامة محمد ناصر الدين الألباني

Al 'Allaamah Saalih al Fawzaan

العلامة صالح بن فوزان الفوزان

Al Haafidh adh Dhahabee

الحافظ الذهبي

Al Haafidh al Baghawee

الحاقظ البغوي

Al Haafidh As Suyootee

الحافظ السيوطي

Al Haafidh Ibn Hajar al 'Asqalaanee

الحافظ ابن حجر العسقلاني

Al Haafidh Ibn Katheer

الحافظ إبن كثير

Al Haafidh Ibn Rajab al Hanbalee

الحافظ ابن رجب الحنبلي

Al Imaam 'Alee al Madeenee

الإمام علي المديني

Al Imaam Ibn Qayyim al Jawzeeyah

الامام ابن قيم الجوزية

Al Khateeb al Baghdaadee

الخطيب البغدادي

Ash Shaykh Abdur Rahmaan ibn Muhammad ibn Qaasim

الشيخ عبد الرحمان بن محمد بن قاسم

Ibn Muflih al-Maqdisee

Shaykh ‘Abdur Razzaaq ‘al Badr

الشيخ عبد الرزاق بن عبد المحسن البدر

Shaykh Ahmad ibn 'Umar Bazmool

شيخ أحمد بن عمر بازمول

Shaykh Mashhoor Hasan Salmaan

شيخ مشهور بن حسن سلمان

Shaykh Mis'id al Husaynee

شيخ مسعد الحسيني

Shaykh Muhammad ibn 'Abdil Wahhaab al 'Aqeel

الشيخ محمد بن عبد الوهاب العقيل

Shaykh Saalih as Suhaymee

الشيخ صالح السحيمي

Shaykh Yahyaa al Haajooree

شيخ يحبى الحاجورى

Shaykhul Islaam ibn Taymiyyah

شيخ الإسلام ابن تيمية

2009-09-10T12:45:00.001+02:00

Are the Terrorists of Today the Khawārij?

Author: Ṣāliḥ al-Fawzān

Translator: Abu Az-Zubayr Harrison

Are the Terrorists of Today the Khawārij?1

Question: The questioner asks about this group that has today left the Muslims and
opposed them. They carry out bombings and terrorize people who once felt safe. Are
these people truly part of the Khawārij or are they disbelievers?
Answer: This group that has left the Muslims, rebelling against them – this is the result of
disassociating oneself from the scholars. I mentioned the consequences of this during the
last part of the (previous) lecture. They broke away from the scholars, broke away from
the Muslim leaders, and the disbelievers and hypocrites put these ideologies into their
heads. So, they have become outcasts in Muslim societies.
They are Khawārij, no doubt. This act of theirs is the act of the Khawārij. Rather, they are
even more violent and extreme than the (original) Khawārij. The (past) Khawārij did not
use to destroy buildings and residents. The Khawārij used to show up face-to-face on the
battlefield. They used to fight on the battlefield despite what they were upon of ignorance.
But they did not used to collapse buildings on everyone inside them – women, children,
the innocent, those at peace with Muslims, people with whom Muslims have a treaty, and
other people guaranteed safety. The Khawārij used not to do this. This is worse and more
violent than the actions of the (original) Khawārij. This is more like the actions of the
Qarāmiṭah (a severely violent, misguided sect). They are more like the Qarāmiṭah
because the actions of the Qarāmiṭah are secret, based on secrecy and
underhandedness and what these people today do is also based on secrecy. The
1 This question was answered by Ṣāliḥ al-Fawzān verbally and the audio clip can be found at:
http://www.fatwa1.com/anti-erhab/Irhabion/Irhabion.html. This particular audio clip is no. 20 in the
list and contains three questions answered by the Shaykh – this is the first one.
www.answering-extremism.com 2
(former) Khawārij – their actions were not kept hidden and secret; they would make
themselves and their objectives known, publicly announcing them. So, these people are
even worse than Khawārij.

A Concise Introduction to the Khawaarij

2009-09-10T12:34:00.002+02:00

A Concise Introduction to the Khawaarij

Author: Dr. Ibrāhīm al-Ruḥaylī
Translator: Harrison
A Concise Introduction to the Khawaarij1
The word “Khawārij” is the plural form of the singular word, “Khārijah” (from
the Arabic root verb: “kharaja” meaning to go out or leave)2. They are called that because
of their leaving the (fundamentals of the) religion and for their opposing the best Muslims
(the companions of the prophet ( salla Allahu aleyhi wa salam ).3 And the first opposition and insurgency
from them occurred against the leader of the believers, ‘Alī Ibn Abī Tālib ( RadiAllahu anhu )
when the issue of who has the right to pass rulings was debated. The Khawārij gathered
at a place called Harūrā4 near Kufa (in Iraq). There, ‘Alī ( RadiAllahu Anhu ) fought fiercely with
them at a place called al-Nahrawān but only after advising and debating with them and
clearly establishing the evidences against them. In that battle, less than ten of the
Khawārij remained and less than ten Muslims were killed. After the Khawārij’s defeat, two
of them fled to Oman, two to Karmāan (near Khorasan in Iran and Sijistān), two to
Sijistān (Seistan), two to the Arabian Peninsula, and one fled to Yemen.5
The scholar al-Shahrastānī said, “The innovated beliefs and methods of the Khawārij
appeared in these places from them (the nine people who were defeated and fled) and
they’ve remained ever since up until today.”6

The Khawārij are known by other (Arabic) names such as “al-Hārūriyyah,” “al-Shurāh,”
“al-Māriqah,” and “al-Muḥakkimah”. They don’t mind these labels except for “al-
Māriqah”...7, 8
The Khawārij collectively agreed that both ‘Uthmān and later ‘Alee (the 3rd and 4th caliphs
of Islam) were in fact disbelievers as were the other companions...And they think
revolting against the leaders and governments is permissible.
They also believe that any major sin is an act of disbelief…
Many authentic ḥadīth from the prophet ( Salla Allahu Aleyhi wa salam ) condemning them have come in
ten different forms of narration like what al-Khalāl narrated from Imam Ahmad that he
said, “The Khawārij are wicked people, and I don’t know of any people on earth more evil
than they.” And he said, “The prophet’s ( Salla Allahu Aleyhi wa salam ) ḥadīth about them are authentic
in ten different forms.”9
The famous scholar of Islam, Ibn Taymiyyah,10 mentioned that Muslim recorded some of
them in his authentic collection as did al-Bukhārī.11
And the scholars unanimously agree to the permissibility to fight the Khawārij whenever
they begin challenging and revolting against the leader, opposing the mainstream
community of Muslims, and renouncing obedience – but after they’ve been warned. This
has been mentioned by al-Nawawī 12 and Ibn Taymiyyah.13
As for considering the Khawārij to be disbelievers themselves, some scholars differ about
this. There are two different narrations from Ahmad about this, mentioned by Ibn Taymiyyah.14 And Ibn Hajar went into detail about the issue in “Fatḥ al-Bārī” by
mentioning the various opinions of the scholars and their evidences.15
However, the more correct opinion is not to consider them disbelievers because Ibn
Taymiyyah mentioned that no narrations from the Companions have been recorded
mentioning they were disbelievers. None of the Companions used to declare them to be
disbelievers, neither ‘Alee nor any other Companion. Instead, they judged them as
oppressive Muslim transgressors.16

1 Selected excerpts taken from the book: “Mawqi’ Ahlis-Sunnah wal-Jamā’ah min Ahl al-Aḥwā wal-
Bid’a” by Dr. Ibrāhīm Ar-Ruḥaylī (pgs. 137-140).
2 The Khawārij are often called “Kharijites” in English. This label of theirs may be translated as
separatists, insurgents, rebels, nonconformist, etc. [Translator’s Note]
3 See “Fatḥ al-Bārī” (vol. 12, pg. 283).
4 Harūrā was a village said to be about two miles outside of Kufa (in Iraq). The Khawārij are also
sometimes referred to as “Hārūriyyah” because they chose that place to gather. See “Mu’jam al-
Buldān” from Yāqoot Al-Hamawī (vol. 2, pg. 245).
5 See “al-Milal wal-Nihal” by al-Shahrastānee (vol. 1 pgs. 115-117) and “al-Farq bayna al-Firaq” by
al-Baghdādee (pg. 75).
6 “al-Milal wal-Niḥal” by al-Shahrastānī (vol. 1 pgs. 117).
7 See “Maqālāt Al-Islāmiyyīn” by al-Ash’arī (vol. 1, pgs. 206, 207).
8 al-Māriqah happens to be the name taken from the Hadeeth when the prophet () described
them as those who “maraqa” or “go through” or “pass in and out” of the religion. [T.N.]
9 “al-Sunnah” by al-Khalāal (vol. 1, 145, no. 110).
10 See “Majmū’ al-Fatāwá” (vol. 3, pg. 279).
11 See “Muslim” (vol. 2, pgs. 740-750) and “Ṣaḥīḥ al-Bukhārī” with “Fatḥ al-Bārī” (vol. 12, pgs. 282,
283, 390).
12 See al-Nawawī’s explanation of “Ṣaḥīḥ Muslim” (vol. 7, pg. 170).
13 See “Majmū’ al-Fatāwá” (vol. 3, pg. 282).
14 See “Majmū’ al-Fatāwá” (vol. 28, pg. 500).
15 See “Fatḥ al-Bārī” (vol. 12, pgs. 299-301).
16 See “Majmū’ al-Fatāwá” (vol. 3, pg. 282; vol. 5, pg. 247; vol. 7, pg. 217).

The Inner Secrets of Fasting By Imaam Ibn Qudaamah al-Maqdisee

2009-09-09T17:27:00.000+02:00

An article explaining how to attain the virtuous rewards of Ramadaan and how to be free from acts which negate the rewards.

There are three levels of fasting, the general fast, the specific fast and the more specific fast.

Know, that in the fast (Sawm) is a special quality that is not found in anything else. And that is its close connection to Allaah, such that He says:

‘‘The Fast (Sawm) is for Me and I will reward it.’’ [2]

This connection is enough to show the high status of fasting. Similarly, the Ka’bah is highly dignified due to its close connection to Him, as occurs in His statement:

‘‘And sanctify My House.’’ [3]

Indeed, the fast is only virtuous due to two significant concepts:

THE FIRST: It is a secret and hidden action, thus, no one from the creation is able to see it Therefore riyaa‘ (showing off) cannot enter into it.

THE SECOND: It is a means of subjugating the enemies of Allaah. This is because the road that the enemies (of Allaah) embark upon (in order to misguide the Son of Aadam) is that of desires. And eating and drinking strengthens the desires. There are many reports that indicate the merits of fasting, and they are well known

THE RECOMMENDED ACTS OF FASTING:

The pre-dawn meal (suhoor) and delaying in taking it are preferable, as well as hastening to break the fast and doing so with dates. Generosity in giving is also recommended during Ramadhaan, as well as doing good deeds and increasing in charity. This is in accordance with the way of the Messenger of Allaah. It is also recommended to study the Qur‘aan and perform I‘tikaaf (seclusion for worship) during Ramadhaan, especially in its last ten days, as well as increasing upon the exertion (towards doing good deeds) in it. In the two Saheehs, ’Aa‘ishah said: ‘‘When the last ten days (of Ramadhaan) would come, the Prophet would tighten his waist wrapper (izaar)’’ [4] The scholars have mentioned two views concerning the meaning of ‘tighten his wrapper (izaar)’ The first is that it means the turning away from women. The second is that it is an expression denoting his eagerness and diligence in doing good deed. They also say that the reason for: the last ten days of Ramadhaan was due to his seeking of the Night of al-Qadr (Laylatul-Qadr).

AN EXPLANATION OF THE INNER SECRETS OF FASTING AND ITS CHARACTERISITCS:

There are three levels of fasting, the general fast, the specific fast and the more specific fast. As for the general fast, then it is the refraining of ones stomach and their private parts from fulfilling their desires. The specific fast is the refraining of ones gaze, tongue, hands, feet, hearing and eyes, as well as the rest of his body parts from committing sinful acts. As for the more specific fast, then it is the heart’s abstention from its yearning after the worldly affairs and the thoughts which distance one away from Allaah, as well as its (the heart’s) abstention. From all the things that Allaah has placed on the same level. [5] From the characteristics of the specific fast is that one lowers his gaze and safeguards his tongue from the repulsive speech that is forbidden, disliked, or which has no benefit, as well as controlling the rest of his body parts. . In a hadeeth by al-Bukhaaree: ‘‘Whosoever does not abandon false speech and the acting upon it, Allaah is not in need off his food and drink.’’ [6]

Another characteristic of the specific fast is that one does not overfill himself with food during the night. Instead, he eats in due measure, for indeed, the son of Aadam does not fill a vessel more evil than his stomach. If he were to eat his fill during the first part of the night, he would not make good use of himself for the remainder of the night. In the same way, if he eats to his fill for suhoor, he does make good use of himself until the afternoon. This is because excessive eating breads laziness and lethargy therefore, the objective of fasting disappears due to one's excessiveness in eating, for what is indeed intended by the fast, is that one savours the taste of hunger and becomes an abandoner of desires.

RECOMMENDED FASTS:

As for the recommended fasts, then know that preference for fasting is established in certain virtuous days. Some of these virtuous days happen every year, such as fasting the first six days of Shawwaal after Ramadhaan, fasting the day of ’Arafah, the day of ’Ashooraa, and the ten days of Dhul-Hijjah and Muharram. Some of them occur every month, such as the first part of the month, the middle part of it, and the last part of it. So whoever fasts the first part of it, the middle part of it and the last part of it, then he has done well. Some fasts occur every week, and they are every Monday and Thursday. The most virtuous of the recommended fasts is the fast of Daawood. He would fast one day and break his fast the next day. This achieves the following three objectives, the soul is given its share on the day the fast is broken. And on the day of fasting, it completes its share in full. The day of eating is the day of giving thanks and the day of fasting is the day of having patience. And Faith (eemaan) is divided into two halves- that of thankfulness and that of patience. [7] It is the most difficult struggle for the soul. This is because every time the soul gets accustomed to a certain condition, it transfers itself that. As for fasting every day, then it has been reported by Muslim, from the hadeeth of Aboo Qataadah that ’Umar (radiyallaahu ’anhu) asked the Prophet (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam): What is the case if one were to fast everyday? So he (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said: ‘‘He did not fast nor did he break his fast or, he did not fast and he did not break his fast.’’ [8] This is concerning the one who fasts continuously, even during the days in which fasting is forbidden.

CHARACTERISITCS OF THE MORE SPECIFIC FASTS:

Know that the one who has been given intellect, knows the objective behind fasting. Therefore, he burdens himself to the extent that he will not be unable to do that which is more beneficial than it. Ibn Mas’ood would fast very little and it is reported that he used to say: ‘‘When I fast, I grow weak in my prayer. And I prefer the prayer over the (optional) fast.’’ Some of the Companions would weaken in their recitation of the Qur‘aan when fasting. Thus, they would exceed in breaking their fast (i.e.. by observing less optional fasts), until they were able to balance their recitation. Every individual is knowledgeable of his condition and of what will rectify it.

Footnotes:

[1] This article is taken from the book Mukhtasar Minhaajul-Qaasideen (p. 38-41) of the illustrious scholar and righteous Imaam, Ibn Qudaamah al-Maqdisee (d.529H). This article was translated by Isma'eel Ibn al-Arkaan and edited by Abu Khaliyl. There were also slight adaptions made to it, such as the exclusion of a couple of statements. [2] Related by al-Bukhaaree (4/118) and Muslim (no. 1151).[3] Sooratul-Hajj: 26 [4] Related by al-Bukhaaree (4/322) and Muslim (no. 1147).[5] (Editors note: Additional comment is required here, The levels mentioned are levels of abstinence. The first of these three levels entails the abstinence which is fulfilled, the fast is considered complete in view of the one having met the legislated requirements [i.e. It does not have to be repeated or made up, the servant has indeed fasted.] The remaining levels deal with the value of the Fast. If the second is level is not met, the fast will be of less value to the servant, than if it were met and likewise for the third. Thus it is said that intentional eating and intercourse render the fast null and void, whereas committing other unlawful acts such, likes speaking falsely, placing the unlawful look to the opposite sex. And so on will constitute a sin of one degree or another, but not nullify the fast. [6] Related by al-Bukhaaree (4/99)[7] {Editors note: This statement is based upon an unauthentic Hadeeth, which has been reported by al-Kharaa‘itee and ad-Daylamee. One of its narrators was graded ‘‘abandoned’’ by an-Nisaa‘ee and adh-Dhahabee. Al-Manawee and al-Albaanee approved of its grading. See ad-Da’eefah (no. 625).
[8] Related by Muslim

http://troid.org/

Innovated ahadith about Ramadaan

2009-09-07T23:03:00.001+02:00

Reference: Riyaad al Jannaan fee Ramadaan: P.31 - 36 - more about reference here...

The following are some inauthentic Ahaadeeth that I wanted to draw attention to due to their circulation amongst the people in Ramadaan. They have been attributed to the Prophet - صلى الله عليه وسلم - even though they are weak or fabricated.

1. “O Allaah, bless Rajab and Sha’baan for us, and allow us to reach Ramadaan.”

Collected by al Bazzaar and at Tabaraanee. Zaa-idah ibn Abee Raaqid is in the chain of narrators, al Bukhaaree said concerning him; Munkar al Hadeeth. An Nasaa-ee and ibn Hibbaan declared it as inauthentic. Ibn Hajar clarified its weakness in ‘Tabyeen al ‘Ajab bima warada fee Rajab’.

2. “O Allaah, allow the Hilaal to emerge upon is with security and Eemaan, and with safety and Islaam.”

Collected and declared inauthentic by at Tirmidhee #3447. In its chain is Sulaymaan ibn Sufyaan, he is weak. Al Haythamee said concerning its chain with at Tabaraanee; ‘’Uthmaan ibn Ibraheem al Haatibee is in the chain, he is weak’. Ibn al Qayyim said; ‘There is weakness in the chains of narrations of this Hadeeth, it is mentioned that Abu Dawood said; ‘There is no authentic Hadeeth in this chapter’.

3. “A magnificent month has approached you…Its beginning is a Mercy, the middle of it is forgiveness, the end of it is freedom from the fire…’

It is known that it is the Hadeeth of Salmaan al Farisee. Sadly we hear a lot of the Khateebs make their Khutbas in explanation of this Hadeeth during this month while it is false. Ibn Khuzaymah collected it and said; ‘if it is authentic.’ ‘Alee ibn Zayd ibn Jad’aan is in its chain and he is weak, in addition, Sa’eed ibn al Musayyib did not hear from him. There is Idtiraab in its chain and its text contains false meanings.

Continue reading...
>>>here<<<

Saying Ameen in the Qunoot

2009-09-05T16:21:00.003+02:00

Saying Ameen in the Qunoot

Compiled & translated

Abbas Abu Yahya

In the Hadeeth from Ibn Abbas –RadhiAllaahu anhu- who said that the Messenger of Allaah -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- made Qunoot for a month continuously in the Dhuhr, Asr, Maghrib, Isha and morning prayer and at the end of every prayer after he said ‘Sami Allaahu liman hamida’ in the last Rakat of that prayer, he would make Dua’ against the tribes of Bani Sulaym and those tribes of Dhakwaan and Usayatah who lived with Bani Sulaym, and those behind the Messenger would say Ameen.’

[Collected by Abu Daawood in his ‘Sunnan’ no. 1443 in ‘the chapter of al-Qunoot in the Prayer’ and Shaykh Albani declared the hadeeth to be Hasan and he brings a research for the hadeeth in ‘Irwaa al-Ghaleel’ (2/163)]

Additional evidence

Ibn al-Mundhir said in ‘al-Awsat’ (5/216) that Imam Malik used to say:

The Imam should make Qunoot from the middle of Ramadan and curse the Kuffar and those behind him should say Ameen.’

[‘al-Mudouwanah’ (1/103]

Imam Ahmad said:

‘The Imam makes Dua’ and those behind him say Ameen’

[‘Mas’ail Ahmad li Abee Daawood p.67, Ishaaq also said this, as was mentioned by al-Marwaazi in ‘Qayam al-Layl’ 303]

Shaykh Uthaymeen said:

‘If we say that there is a Qunoot in the five daily prayers, then if the Qunoot is in a prayer that is read aloud, in this case it is known that the Qunoot is read out aloud, and if it is in a silent prayer then it is still read out aloud, as is established in the Sunnah: namely that the Messenger -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- used to read the Qunoot and the people used to say Ameen behind him, and it would not have been possible to say Ameen except if he was reading it out aloud.

This establishes the fact that the Sunnah is to read the Qunoot aloud even if it is in the silent prayers.’

[‘Sharh al-Mumtaa’ (4/47)]

dont know who wrote it...

2009-09-04T11:51:00.000+02:00

First,I was dying to finish my high school and start college
And then I was dying to finish college and start working
Then I was dying to marry and have children
And then I was dying for my children to grow old enough
So I could go back to work
But then I was dying to retire
And now I'm dying And suddenly i realized that
I forgot to live....

thursday

2009-09-04T02:07:00.002+02:00

I hope you all are having a good Ramadhan, and that you feel the sweetness of fasting and praying the night prayer, ameen.
Tomorrow i am invited to a dear sister house, and i lover her mothers cooking so it will be nice.
Dont have anything to update on, as I am still feeling sick and not fasting.

take care. bye

my ramadhan so far, day 11

2009-09-02T13:46:00.004+02:00

assalamu alaykum..
i haven´t been updating for a while, but i´ve been kinda busy, so im excused.. well, here i am !
ramadhan is going just fine, its nice to be fasting, makes me think why i don´t do this more often, its not even hard, and i like not having to think about food all the time..
yesterday i had invited sisters over for iftar, and all together we were 9 persons mashaAllah.. i planned to take pictures of all the food, but yeah, my brain isn´t really working at iftar time, its just set on ONE thing.. guess what !! e a t !!
i made a croatian dish called shufte, and another albanian sister made pite, a kurdish sister made bamya and rice, and my somali neighbour made some anjero and potatoes and stuff... and for dessert i made pineapple pie and some chocolate cake... MashaAllah it was aaaallll so delicious.. and there are left-overs, so i wont even bother making something new for tonight because i love bamya sooo much and there´s so much left.. alhamdulillah !!

we had a real nice time, its always so much fun to hang out with sisters whom you love for the sake of Allah, and i love the sisterhood so much more than "usual" friendship, because the jahaliyah friendship is kinda false and there´s always some kind of competition on who´s best at stuff or looking the best or whatever.. much more nicer to hang out with sisters fisabillah since its much more relaxed and fun ..

so today i will eat iftar with my roomie and my neighbour i think, im thinking about making some cookie or something, but not sure what, we´ll see later when i´ll go shopping after work..
so, yeah, this is my ramadhan so far, ful of joy, happiness, inner-peace and most important of all, a real iman-boost !!

funny story about following sunnah.

2009-09-02T10:43:00.000+02:00

There was this beautiful woman, who wanted to get married, but she wanted a very pious husband, so she said that she’ll marry the man who recites the whole Quran every single day, fasts for the whole year and stays awake and worships Allah all throughout the night.

She was a very beautiful woman, and a lot of suitors wanted to marry her, but they knew they couldn’t fulfil the conditions she set. Until this one man stepped forward and said he could fulfil them. So the Imam got both of them married.

After the first night of the marriage, the wife sees that the husband doesn’t recite the whole of the Quran, nor does he fast, nor does he stay awake in the worship of Allah, she decided to let it roll on for a few weeks to see if there were any changes, there weren’t, so she filed a complaint and asked for a divorce.

They are both taken in front of the judge, and the judge asked, ‘What were the conditions of the marriage?’ the man replied ‘They were for me to recite the whole Quran daily, keep fast for the whole year and to worship Allah all throughout the night.’

The Judge asked, ‘ did you fulfil them? The man calmly answered, ‘…yes.’

The judge answers, ‘you lie, your wife has said that you don’t, that’s why she’s asking for a divorce’.

But the man insisted that he had fulfilled the conditions, so the judge asked, ‘did you recite the full Quran everyday?’ The man answered yes. The Judge, baffled asked, ‘how? How can you do that?’ The man coolly answered, ‘I recite Surah Ikhlas three times a day and according to Prophet Muhammad (saw), reciting Surah Ikhlas three times is equivalent to reciting the whole Quran.’ The Judge was intrigued, so he asked, ‘how did you fast the whole year?’ The man answered, ‘ I fasted for the whole month of Ramadan, then kept another six fasts in the month of Shawwal, according to Prophet Muhammad (saw), keeping all of the fast of Ramadan then keeping six fasts in the month of Shawwal, is as if you have fasted for the whole year.’

The Judge remained silent, he couldn’t give a reply saying the man was wrong, so finally he asked, ‘ how did you stay awake all night and worship Allah, when your wife saw you sleeping?’ The Judge thought the man wouldn’t be able to answer this one, but the man, cool as a cucumber answered, ‘I prayed Salatul Isha with jamaat, then the next day prayed Salatul Fajr with jamaat, according to Prophet Muhammad (saw), the one who prays Salatul Isha and Salatul Fajr with jamaat, it is as if he had stayed up all night worshipping Allah.’

The Judge sat there looking at the man; the final verdict was about to be released…

He said to the man and his wife, ‘…go, just go, there is nothing wrong with this marriage’…

my first tareweeh

2009-09-01T17:46:00.002+02:00

was a mess. : ))

i got to the masjid, it was empty (in the women´s section) just me and my daughter.
And my friend got there after 5 minutes or something.
I got bananas, dates, and sweet stuff for 10 people to break my fast with : )
we prayed maghrib and after got a nice small but very strange dinner.
We asked for som more food and a completely new dish came out.
And then allot of women started arriving. mostly Somalian.
So it got kind of difficult for me to pray since my daughter was a bit crazy that particular time.
so we decided to go home after isha prayer, and it took about 2 hours to get home so it was a good idea.
The masjid on the other hand, was really beautiful. They had a TV in the women´s section so i could see the imam and muathin, and the first line of men praying.
and they had speakers so we could hear everything.
The man who lead maghrib prayer had such a beautiful voice, my husband later told me that's the husband of a sister i know (lucky her i thought hhh ma sha Allah)

The imam for isha had also a really beautiful voice and that alone made the long travel worth it.
As a Muslim when you hear a really beautiful voice recite Qur´an and even if you don't understand whats being said, it gives the body and heart peace and the brain really slows down and start to ponder over life and his or hers situation.

I hope all of you get to go to a nice taraweeh at a big masjid and just enjoy the month of Ramadan to its fullest.

The Wisdom of Zakah

2009-08-31T22:25:00.004+02:00

Shaykh Muhammad bin Jameel Zeno
From Pillars Of Islaam And Eemaan p160-162
Darussalam Publications There is a great wisdom in the institution of Zakat, as it fulfills many major aims of the Shareah resulting general benefits, which becomes clear to one who ponders the text of the Qur’aan and Sunnah that order for its payment; for instance, the Ayah of Soorah At-Tawbah which explains where the Zakat should be distributed, and other verses and Ahadeeth which encourage charity and spending for good causes in general. Among the aspects of this wisdom are:

1. Purification of the believers soul from the stains of sins and the transgressions and their negative effects on the hearts and the cleansing of his soul from the despicable qualities of miserliness and stinginess and their effects. Allaah said:

“Take Sadaqah (alms) from their wealth in order to purify them and sanctify them.” [Soorah At-Tawbah 9:103]

2.To fulfil the requirements of the poor Muslims and to preserve his honour from the humiliation of asking other than Allaah.

3. Lightning the burden of the Muslim debtor by helping to pay off his debt.

4. To join disparate hearts on belief and Islaam, bringing them from a state of doubt, spiritual uneasiness and weak faith to firmly rooted faith and complete certainty.

5. Equipping fighters in the way of Allaah and preparing the military equipment and material for the spread of Islaam and for the defeat of disbelief and corruption and for the establishment of justice between the people until there is no more Fitnah (Shirk in its beguiling and confusing manifestations) so that religion (worship) be exclusive for Allaah alone in the whole world.

6. Helping the stranded Muslim traveller to complete his journey; he is given from the Zakat what he needs to get back home.

7. Purification of wealth and its increase and protection from ruin through the blessing incurred by the obedience of Allaah and the aggrandisement of his order and kindness to His creation.These are some of the sublime wisdom and noble purposes for which Zakat was mandated. And there are much more, no one comprehends all of them except Allaah.

http://calgaryislam.com

tonight

2009-08-31T16:36:00.002+02:00

I am going to my first taraweeh EVER!
I have been Muslim almost 4 years alhamdulillah, but never went to taraweeh.
1 year i didn't have the means, 2 year i was in Libya (to afraid to go inside by myself to the women´s sections of any masjid of choice. 3 year i had a baby. 4th year is now... AND I AM GOING... in sha Allah!

we will be going in about 1 hour or so : )

They are supposed to have really nice iftar there from a local restaurant so i will try to get a picture of it.

pregnancy...

2009-08-30T21:50:00.004+02:00

Today fasting has been a trial, i actually stopped fasting because i felt so dizzy and near fainting.
So i will post some texts about pregnancy and breast feeding in sha Allah, and how it concerns women during the sacred month of Ramadan, the month if Rahma, mercy.

feeling sick?

Question:

Does vomiting corrupt the fast?

Answer:

Many things happen to the fasting person that he does not intend, such as wounds or nosebleeds or vomiting or water going into his throat or gasoline fumes going into his throat, all against his will. Thus, all of these matters do not corrupt the fast. The is due to the Prophets statement: Whoever is overcome by vomiting, he does not have to make up for the day of fasting, and whoever makes himself vomit, he must make up for the day of fasting.[1]

1. Abu Dawud no. 2380. At-Tirmithi no. 720 and Ibn Majah no. 1676.

Shaykh `Abdul-`Azeez Bin Baz

Fatawa Islamiyah Page no.276 Vol:2

Breast feeding & breaking the fast

Question:

Is it permissible for a breast-feeding woman to break her fast? And when should she make up for it? And may she feed (poor people instead of fasting)?

Answer:

If the breast-feeding woman fears that the fasting will harm her child by reducing the milk, then she may break her fast, but she must make up for it later, because she is similar to a sick person, about whom Allaah says:

...and whoever is ill or on a journey, the same number [of days which one did not observe Saum (fasts) must be made up] from other days. Allaah intends for you ease, and He does not want to make things difficult for you. [al-Baqarah 2:185]

Then once the danger is past, she may make it up for, either during the winter, when the days are shorter and the weather is cooler, or, if she is unable to do it in the winter, then in the following year. But as for feeding (poor people), it is not permissible except in a situation where the thing which prevents her from fasting or the excuse for not fasting is continues, and it is not expected that it will be removed, in these circumstances, she may feed (poor people) instead of fasting.

Shaykh Muhammad bin Saalih al-`Uthaymeen

Fatawa Arkaanul-Islaam, DARUSSALAM, vol.2, page.643

The pregnant woman & the breast feeding woman

Question:

Regarding the pregnant woman and the breastfeeding woman; if they fear for themselves or upon the child during the month of Ramadhaan – such that they eat, what then is due upon them? Should they eat and feed others (i.e. to the poor) and make up the fasts or should they eat and make up the fasts and not feed others or should they eat and feed others not make up for them? What is correct from these three?

Answer:

If the pregnant woman fears for herself or for her baby for the reason of fasting during Ramadhaan; then she should eat and upon her is to make up for them only. Her state in that is similar to the state of the one who is sick and is unable to find strength to fast – or that he fears some harm upon himself.

Allaah The Most High says:

((And whosoever is sick or is upon a journey; then the period is made up from other days…)) [Soorah Al-Baqarah: 185]

Likewise is the case for the breastfeeding woman if she fears for herself when she breastfeeds her child during Ramadhaan. Or that she fears upon her child if she were to fast and not breastfeed him – then she is to eat and upon her is to make up for them only.

Permanent Committee for Research and Verdicts
Shaykh `Abdul-`Azeez Bin Baz
Shaykh `Abdullah bin Ghudayaan
Shaykh `Abdur-Razzaaq al-`Afeefee

Fataawaa Al-Lajnah ad-daa'imah vol. 10 page 220 question two of fatwa number 1453

Translated by Aboo Haatim Muhammad Farooq

HELP HER!

2009-08-29T12:28:00.001+02:00

Dont know where to put your zakat money???
Help out an american muslim woman and her children reunite in Ramadhaan.
And make dua that she and her family stay strong muslims, even after what the girls dad did to them : (

>>>READ IT HERE<<<

A successful Ramadaan?!

2009-08-28T17:08:00.005+02:00

A successful Ramadaan
Title and sub-titles added
Ithaaf Ahlil Eemaan bi Duroos Shahr Ar-Ramadaan pg 119-120
By Shaykh Allaamah Salih Al-Fawzaan.

[The piety and humility of the Salaf]
When Ramadaan came to a close, the rightly guided predecessors (As-Salaf As-Saalih) used to frequently seek forgiveness, repent to Allah - The Might and Majestic - and fear that their (deeds) woulnd not be accepted. They used to exert themselves (in worship) in Ramadaan and outside of Ramadaan; afterwards they would be fearful thah none of this will be accepted.

[How the Salaf behaved when Ramadaan was approaching and when it left]
They used to seek the forgiveness of Allah and repent. So much so that it was reported that they would supplicate to Allah for six months that He would allow them to reach Ramadaan. If He allowed them to reach Ramadaan, they would fast, pray at night and supplicate for the next six months that He accept the month of Ramadaan from them.

[Signs that Ramadaan has been accepted]
Following good deeds with a good sign that (this act) has been accepted, whether it is pertaining to Ramadaan or to other than it. if the Muslim is in a good state after Ramadaan, performing many good deeds and righteous actions, then this is a proof of acceptance.

[Signs that Ramadaan hasn't been accepted]
If the opposite is true, and he follows good with evil, and as soon Ramadaan is over he follows on from this with his sins, heedlessness and turning away from the obedience of Allaah, then this is a proof that is hasn't been accepted

Every person knows their true situation after Ramadaan. So let them look, if they are in a better state, then let them thank Allaah, as this shows (that it has been) accepted.
If their state is worse, then let him repent to Allaah and seek the forgiveness of Allah, as this is a proof that it hasn't been accepted and it is a proof of negligence and carelessness.

[ Do NOT despair the Mercy of Allaah]
But the slave should not lose hope of the Mercy of Allaah. He should not close the door that is between him and Allaah and despair of the Mercy of Allaah.

"Say: O my slaves who has transgressed against themselves (by committing evil deeds and sins]. Do not despair the Mercy of Allaah: verily Allaah forgives all sins. He is Oft-Forgiving Most Merciful . " (Az-Zumar : 53)

It is upon him to repent , seek the forgiveness of Allaah and return to Allaah - The mighty and Majestic.
Allah - The Mighty and Majestic - accepts repentance from those that repent.

"And He it is Who accepts repentance from His slaves, and forgive sins, and He knows what you do. " (Ash-Shura: 25)

And the peace and blessings upon our Prophet Muhammad.

Translated by Abu Abdillah Hassan Somali

the supplication of the fasting person...

2009-08-27T22:01:00.005+02:00

Abdullah Ibn `Amr Ibn al-`Aas also reported that the
Messenger of Allah, salla Allahu alaihi wa sallam,
said: "Indeed there is for the fasting person,
when he breaks his fast,
a supplication which is not rejected".
[Ibn Majah & Al-Hakim].

Raising the hands for the Qunoot in the Witr

2009-08-27T03:19:00.006+02:00

41- The Ruling of Raising the Hands in the Dua’ of al-Witr

Shaykh, Allaama Mufti of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia

Abdul Azeez bin Abdullaah Bin Baz

Question:

What is the ruling of raising the hands in al-Witr?

Answer:

Raising the hands in the Qunoot of al-Witr is legislated; because the Qunoot is from the same type as the Qunoot when new hardships occur for the Muslims, and this is indeed established by the Prophet -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam, that he -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- raised his hands when he made Dua’ in the Qunoot when new hardships occur for the Muslims.

This was collected by al-Bayhaqi –Raheem’ullaah- with a authentic chain.

[Taken from ‘Majmoo Fatawa wa Maqalaat Mutafariqa’ vol.30 p.51 ]

Some Athaar of the Companions regarding raising the hands in al-Qunoot

Collected by

Zakareeyah bin Ghulam Qadir

a) From Abu Uthmaan who said: ‘Umar used to read the Qunoot with us after Rukoo’ and he would raise his hands so much so that the side of his body would be seen, and his voice could be heard from the back of the Masjid.’

[Collected by Ibn Abee Shaybah (3/316), Bayhaqi (2/212) & Ibn al-Mundhir (5/213)]

b) From Ibn Abbas that he prayed the Qunoot with the people at Fajr in Basrah, and he raised his hands so much so that the side of his body was raised up.’

[Saheeh – Collected by Ibn Abee Shaybah (2/316)]

c) From Ibn Mas’ood that he used to raise his hands in the Witr then after that he would lower them.’

[Hasan – Collected by Abdur Razzaq (4/325)]

juz by juz

2009-08-26T22:35:00.002+02:00

every juz part by part on youtube´s shaykha channel

>>> go here!<<<

25 days to go : )

2009-08-26T22:24:00.003+02:00

I have eaten, washed up the dishes, had a snack and I just drank a wonderful cup of tea.

I did not make the best dinner, but i didn't feel like eating beside my husband and daughter who had their favorite chicken liver : S
I don't like any intestines and i don't think i ever will.
I just took out bread from the oven, which i want to eat for suhoor, with corn flakes, a cup och tea, cheese and salami : D
cant wait.
Now i want to pray the night prayers and some taraweeh in my house.
then i need to get some sleep as i need to wake up 8ish in the morning : (
see you later alligator, in a while crocodile : ) p.s yes i am a dork : P

day 4

2009-08-25T23:56:00.003+02:00

haha yeah, but still i learnt something from it.. heyy be easy on me, i like to take things nice and easy, why eat to much, eeh? haha..
anyways, for iftar i had..... pizza !!! with a bottle of pepsi max of course sharing it with my neighbour, nice time mashaAllah.. tomorrow i will have iftar over at another sisters place, we will be 4-5 sisters and she promised to make beshamel !! wohooo hehe.. so im looking forward to that...
noow, i will go pray and then go to bed inshaAllah, and for suhoor, this time i will eat something else, i bought some bread and butter and salami sooooo hopefully that will fill my stomach..
okay, so long, take care, i hope you all have a great time of fasting tomorrow inshaAllah...
wa salamu alaykum

day 4 for firdous

2009-08-25T19:30:00.003+02:00

today was even eaaaasier than yesterday.
And it is almost finished. Alhamdulillah : ))
i had the best suhoor even yesterday, my Chinese soup and white rice, dates and a "little" bit of chocolate.
I also drank vitamin C to stay steady, and ate my iron pregnancy tablet.

so to sum it all up i had more than an apple and i felt great : P

seriously sister? an apple? miskiena : )))

Swallowing Sputum or Phlegm by a Fasting Person

2009-08-25T18:23:00.003+02:00

Question:
What is the ruling on swallowing sputum or phlegm by a fasting person?

Answer:
If sputum of phlegm does not reach the mouth, then it does not break the fast, and there is only one opinion on this in the Mathhab.
If it does reach the mouth, then he swallows it, the scholars hold two opinions regarding it:

Some of them hold that it breaks the fast, including it in the same category as food and drink. Others hold that it does not break the fast, including it in the same category as saliva, for saliva does not break the fast, even if one collected his saliva and swallowed it, his fast is not invalidated.

When the scholars disagree, it is necessary to refer to the Book (of Allaah) and the Sunnah; and if we are in doubt at to whether this matter invalidates the act of worship or it does not invalidate it, then the basic principle is that it is not invalidated and based upon this, swallowing sputum does not break the fast.

The important thing is that a person leaves his sputum, and does not try to draw it into his mouth, then he should expel it, whether he is fasting or not. As for breaking the fast, it requires an evidence which will be a convincing proof for a person before Allaah, the Almighty, the All-Powerful, for the invalidation of the fast.

Shaykh Muhammad bin Saalih al-`Uthaymeen
Fatawa Arkaanul-Islaam, DARUSSALAM, vol.2, p.666
http://www.fatwaislam.com/fis/

day 4 (day 1) so far so good

2009-08-25T15:18:00.003+02:00

assalamu alaykum everyone !!!
this is alhamdulillah my fírst day of fasting.. i woke up at sahur and i was sooo crazy tired.. i have a hard time eating in the middle of the night, dont even like to eat after 22 p.m. or so, and on top of that i couldn´t find anything eatable at home (unless i wanted something meat-like, noooo thaaanks at 4 a.m.) since i was waiting for getting paid today and therefor had nooo money to shop yesterday haha... but alhamdulillah, now i got my money so i will go buy some food in about 40 minutes... anyways, the only thing i had was a big glass of water and an apple.. baaaaaad baaad combination !! about 5 minutes after fajr "arrived" i got sooo thirsty !! all i could feel was the taste of the sour apple i had for sahur and a crazy need for water.. soo, not to self, never have an apple and water for sahur hehe..
but i prayed, and went to bed and then woke up for work.. my kids was calm and nice today alhamdulillah but i was so tired, you know the same feeling as when standing in front of a big fire, that kind of burning feeling in your eyes.. uff... at the same time the kids took a nap, so did i, and it helped.. so now i just finished work, and i will meet up a sister to go shop very soon, will just pray first inshaAllah..
soo far, im aaaallright, not much hunger feelings, just i would need something to drink, but its not like im gonna pass out (i hope anyways) so i´ll be fine, it feels good and alhamdulillah, when you do something for the sake of Allah, everything´s easy !
i still dont know what i will have for iftar, and i pretty much dont care.. i love that i dont have to care about what i will eat all day and so on, because i easily get obsessed (refer to my other blog , lol) .. so i´ll do a quick update later inshaAllah, take care ya´ll , fi amanillah

the thirst is gone...

2009-08-24T23:42:00.006+02:00

Hadith for breaking of the fast :
"Thababadh-dhama´u wabtallatil-´urooqu, wa thabatal-´ajru in shaa´Allah"

The thirst is gone, the veins are moistened. And the reward is confirmed, if Allahs wills.[abu dawud and other, see also al albani sahihul jami as saghir 4/209]

This is precisely how i feel before i break my fast. And almost all muslims say they could fast hours more at this moment.
So Alhamdulillah, Allahs makes easy the fasting for the patient.
Allahu akbar

my 3rd day

2009-08-24T23:33:00.003+02:00

today was all good,
I dint get hungry until about 10 minutes before iftar (breaking the fast)
i walked around ready with 3 dates in my hand, so they got warm and yummie.
My trick now due to pregnancy is to take a nap during the day for two hours, and it really helps.

My mom found a prayer schedule in an arabic food store, so she could keep track on when to eat food in our house LOL : )

my mom is the best!

Common bi'dah made in imsaak

2009-08-24T20:50:00.004+02:00

The practice of some people is to stop eating Suhoor 10-15 minutes earlier than the time of Fajr to observe Imsaak. This is not correct because Allaah has permitted the fasting person to eat and drink until dawn comes.
Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen (raheemullah) was asked about some timetables which give the time of imsaak as being approximately one-quarter of an hour before Fajr. He said:

"This is a kind of bid’aah (innovation) which has no basis in the Sunnah. Rather the Sunnah is to do the opposite, because Allaah says in His Holy Book (interpretation of the meaning)":

...and eat and drink until the white thread (light) of dawn appears to you distinct from the black thread (darkness of night) [al-Baqarah 2:187]

And the Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) said: “Bilaal gives the adhaan at night, so eat and drink until you hear the adhaan of Ibn Umm Maktoom, for he does not give the adhaan until dawn comes.” This imsaak which some of the people do is an addition to that which Allaah has enjoined, so it is false. It is a kind of extremism in religion, and the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Those who go to extremes are doomed, those who go to extremes are doomed, those who go to extremes are doomed.”
Narrated by Muslim, 2670

Al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: "This shows that it is permissible to eat, drink, have intercourse etc until dawn comes."

Al-Haafiz ibn Hajar said in Fath al-Baari (4/199): "One of the reprehensible innovations that have appeared in our times is giving the second adhaan approximately twenty minutes before Fajr in Ramadaan, and extinguishing the lamps which indicate that it is haraam to eat and drink for those who want to fast. Those who introduced this innovation claim that they are erring on the side of caution with regard to an act of worship."

What is obligatory on all Muslims is that they hold on firmly to the Qur'an and Sunnah and follow it as closely as one can. This is a safeguard for us, so that we don't fall right or left but stay on the middle course. The Prophet (صلى الله عليه وسلم) described the religion of Islaam that is a middle course between extreme and lenient. Remember these words of the Prophet
(صلى الله عليه وسلم): I leave behind me two things. You will never go astray if you hold fast to them: The Qur'an and my Sunnah.

O Allah! Render the thoughts and inclinations within my heart, to be Your fear and remembrance, and let my endeavour and desire be devoted to what You love and appreciate. Keep my feet firm on Thy Right Path so that I should not stagger, and guide me to the true Faith so that I should not go astray. Ameen!!!

www.calgaryislam.com

Is saying ramadan mubarak from islam?

2009-08-24T00:49:00.001+02:00

Shaykh Saalih Al-Fawzaan says in Al-Mulakh-khas Al-Fiqh-hee (1/193):

Quote:

"And there is no harm in the people making tahni'ah to each other (on the 'Eed), that one says to others: Taqabbal Allaahu minnaa wa minkoom.

Shaykh Al-Islaam Ibn Taymiyyah said: 'It has been reported from a group of the Companions that they used to do it, and the imaams were lenient regarding it, like Ahmad and others.'

And the intended meaning of tahni'ah is: Showing affection and expressing happiness.

And Imaam Ahmad said, 'I do not begin with it (in my greeting) to anyone, but if someone begins with it (in their greeting) to me, then I respond to it.'

And that is because the response to a greeting is waajib; and as for beginning someone with tahni'ah, then it is not something ordered (in the Sharee'ah), nor is it something prohibited. Furthermore, there is no problem in the people shaking hands with the tahni'ah."

This quote is relevant since the phrase "Ramadhaan Mubaarak" is similar to "Taqabbal Allaahu minnaa wa minkum" in that they are both phrases that are common on the tongues and are taken as Sunnah by some people.

Notice that when Ibn Taymiyyah said that it had been reported from some of the Companions that:

[1] He used the wording "has been reported" which indicates that the reports may not be authentic.

[2] He said afterwards that the imaams were lenient regarding it, meaning that he did not see it as being an established practice in the religion based on the reports from the Companions. Leniency [tarkhees] would not be needed for an established practice.
[3] He referred to the statement of Imaam Ahmad that Shaykh Saalih brought. Imaam Ahmad knew of the reports from the Companions as well, but still did not view this as an established religious practice. In Al-Mughnee:

سُئِلَ أَحْمَدُ عَنْ قَوْلِ النَّاسِ فِي الْعِيدَيْنِ تَقَبَّلَ اللَّهُ مِنَّا وَمِنْكُمْ . قَالَ : لَا بَأْسَ بِهِ , يَرْوِيه أَهْلُ الشَّامِ عَنْ أَبِي أُمَامَةَ . قِيلَ : وَوَاثِلَةَ بْنِ الْأَسْقَعِ ؟ قَالَ : نَعَمْ . قِيلَ : فَلَا تُكْرَهُ أَنْ يُقَالَ هَذَا يَوْمَ الْعِيدِ . قَالَ : لَا .
"Imaam Ahmad was asked about the saying of some people on the two 'Eeds 'Taqabballaahu minnaa wa minkum.' He said, 'There is no problem with that, as the people of Shaam have reported it from Aboo Umaamah.' It was said, 'And Waathilah ibn Al-Asqa'?' He said, 'Yes.' It was said, 'So this is not disliked that this is said on the day of 'Eed?' He said, 'No.'"

[4] While he and Imaam Ahmad both knew of these narrations, they themselves did not use these greetings themselves, but they would reply to those who greeted them with them and not disapprove of it. If they believed that the phrase was Sunnah, meaning the Sunnah of the Companions here, then they would have been the first to begin greeting the people with it due to their love of the Companions and their adherence to the guidance they were upon. So they viewed this statement as being normal speech, that which is mubaah (openly permissible) in its origin. Thus it is similar to the phrase "Ramdhaan Mubaarak" or 'Eed Mubaarak" or the likes, those statements which have no negative meaning within themselves and are considered from the normal speech of the people.

So when someone claims that these greetings are Sunnah, or a practice that is part of the Islaamic Sharee'ah, then they have taken it a step further than what has been discussed here, and we require from them proof from the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu 'alayhe wa sallam).

This is the case in places where blind following is predominant. New Muslims are taught that this is the "Islaamic greeting" or "the Sunnah" for the 'Eed. This is usually said by those who take everything around them that the Muslims do as being Sunnah or religiously established without relying on any evidences.

So the statement of Shaykh Saalih Al-Fawzaan and others from the scholars, that there is no harm in it, then this must be understood in the right context: There is no harm in someone saying this phrase to greet his brother on the 'Eed. However, as for a person claiming that it is "Sunnah" meaning the Sunnah of the Prophet (sallallaahu 'alayhe wa sallam), which is the first meaning people understand when they hear that something is Sunnah, then this is making something part of the Deen and it requires evidence, and the Shaykh was not speaking about this when he said, "laa ba's".

And Allaah knows best.

fasting is for Allah

2009-08-24T00:22:00.002+02:00

Narrated Abu Huraira: Allah’s Apostle said

“Allah said, ‘All the deeds of Adam’s sons (people) are for them, except fasting which is for Me, and I will give the reward for it.’ Fasting is a shield or protection from the fire and from committing sins. If one of you is fasting, he should avoid sexual relation with his wife and quarreling, and if somebody should fight or quarrel with him, he should say, ‘I am fasting.’ By Him in Whose Hands my soul is’ The unpleasant smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better in the sight of Allah than the smell of musk. There are two pleasures for the fasting person, one at the time of breaking his fast, and the other at the time when he will meet his Lord; then he will be pleased because of his fasting.”

Sahih Bukhari, volume 3, book 31, hadith 128

fasting without eating sahur ?

2009-08-23T23:14:00.003+02:00

Question: A person went to sleep before the sahoor in Ramadhaan whilst having the intention to take the sahoor. But, he slept through 'til the morning. Is his fast correct or not?

Response: His fast is correct because the sahoor is not a condition for the correctness of the fast. Rather it is preferable, for that which the Prophet (sal-Allaahu `alayhe wa sallam) said ((Take the sahoor for certainly in it is blessing)).
(This hadeeth has been) agreed upon by al-Bukhaaree and Muslim.

Shaykh Ibn BaazFataawa Ramadhaan - Volume 1, Page 185, Fatwa No.124;
al-Fataawa libni Baaz - Kitaab ad-Da'wah, Volume 2, Page 161

so we understand from this that if it might happen that we for some reason dont eat sahur our fast is still accepted.. But the sahur is still important, its not good to leave it on purpose because we´re to tired to eat or just dont feel like.. If we dont have sahur its not a sin on us, but since its sunnah to eat it, and its a blessing and because that is what distinguish muslims fast from the fasting the non-muslims do..
so try to always have something for sahur, even just a glass of water and a date is enough, its not harder than that ..
wa salamu alaykum

my day

2009-08-23T21:35:00.012+02:00

The month of Quran

Today i went with my family to visit my brother and his girlfriend who just recently had a baby girl.
No one is Muslim so i was dreading all last night about how hungry i would get when they eat cake and stuff.
When we get there i was still feeling good and didn't think about that i was fasting. And when they served the cakes and stuff it didn't bother me at all.
So Alhamdulillah i continued fasting and felt good.
It wasn't until the long drive home i got really tired and thirsty.
And from that point about 15:00 in the the afternoon till sunset i was hungry and felt like a zombie.
But 20 minutes prior to breaking the fast i felt so calm and happy.
I realized i had been able to fast all day without any real problem.
And then i got a bit sad remembering how many other pregnant women who don't have any food all day long and even in the night.
There are so many Muslims who don't have food to break their fast. And they fast with the knowledge that the reward is huge.

Swedish people think of fasting as something insufferable and terrible, but swedish people have among the highest income rates in all the world and even the most poor people here eat every day.
So for them to be without food for just an hour involuntarily is a nightmare.

I am still waiting to hear how many people convert in this blessed month.
Last year people just walked in to masajids not knowing why, and took the shahada (statement of faith)
In the biggest masjid built in Stockholm, people come in everyday in Ramadan and ask about Islam and convert in the same day.
Like when this Latino guy with his arms full of tattoos, who didn't know anything about Islam, just felt a need he couldn't explain and walked in to find fasting Muslims, praying and talking about this month of mercy. And converted hours later.

Anyway it was a good day and i felt for sure that i will be able to fast all month, God willing!

Day 2

2009-08-23T14:19:00.003+02:00

assalamu alaykum !
i was thinking it might have been fun to make a daily journal somehow on how our days pass by, what we do and try to reflect over, and what we break the fast with etc.
for me, i haven´t been able to fast yet, due to approved reasons, so i don´t have much to tell you, but im longing soooo much to fast !!
yesterday was the first day for everyone and i was a bit sad because i didn´t really feel what i usually feel when ramadhan is here, but later at maghrib time when it got dark outside and i knew people was having iftar and i also had something to eat it almost felt like i had been fasting aswell..

you know, that happy feeling that you´re going to eat soon, and that you´ve spent all your day fasting for the sake of Allah.. i dont know how to describe it, but i really miss that feeling, and i feel so happy and calm inside, im sure everyone else feels it aswell hehe..
i cant wait until i will be able to fast, until i will wake up in the middle of the night to eat sahur and pray fajr, and then go to sleep and just be very peaceful inside all day inshaAllah..
if you, like me , can´t fast then try to do other stuff that is ibadah aswell !
all day i listened to durus through paltalk, and i read a few things on the internet and listened to Qur'an.. we can still make dhikr and other stuff even though we cant fast, so dont miss out on the reward we can get !!

firdous, tell us how your day has been !!

The wisdom behind fasting, by Imaam Muhammad bin Saalih al Uthaimeen

2009-08-23T12:52:00.004+02:00

From the wisdom of fasting is that: It is an act of worship done for Allaah, in which the ‘abd (servant) draws closer to His Lord by abandoning the things that he loves and desires, such as food, drink and sexual intercourse. So because of this, the truthfulness of his Faith and the completeness of his servitude to Allaah become apparent, as well as his love for Allaah and his longing for what Allaah has prepared for him (of good). This is since the one who fasts does not abandon something that is beloved to him except for that which is greater to him than it (which is Allaah). When the believer knows that Allaah’s contentment lies in the fasting – which is abandoning those desires that he naturally loves – he will give his Lord’s contentment precedence over his desires. So he abandons his desires no matter how much he longs and yearns for them, because his delight and the tranquility of his soul lies in his abandoning all that for the sake of Allaah.

Because of this, many of the believers – if one of them were to be beaten or forced to break his fast during a day in Ramadaan without a valid excuse, he would not break his fast. So this is from the greatest and most profound aspects of wisdom behind fasting.

And from the wisdom behind fasting is that it is a means of attaining Taqwaa, as Allaah says: “O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, in order that you gain Taqwaa.” This is since a person who is fasting is commanded to do the obligatory duties and to avoid sinful acts. The Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) said: “Whoever does not abandon false speech, acting upon that (false speech) and (acts of) ignorance (i.e. sins), then Allaah has no need of him abandoning his food and drink.” [Reported by Al-Bukhaaree] So when a person is fasting, every time he desires to do a sinful act, he will remember that he is fasting and thus withhold himself from that. This is why the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) ordered the person who is fasting, when cursed at and abused, to say: “I am fasting”, cautioning him (the reviler) that a person fasting is commanded to refrain from cursing and reviling and reminding himself that he is fasting and cannot counter with cursing.

And from the wisdom behind fasting is that the heart opens to contemplation and remembrance (of Allaah). This is since fulfilling one’s desires leads to heedlessness and perhaps the heart becomes hardened and blinded from the truth. This is why the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) advised us to eat and drink little, where he said: “The Son of Aadam does not fill a vessel worse than his stomach.” [Reported by Ahmad, An-Nasaa’ee and Ibn Maajah]

And in Saheeh Muslim, Handhala Al-Usaidee RAA, who was one of the scribes of Allaah’s Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam), said to the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam): “Handhala has become a hypocrite.” So Allaah’s Messenger (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) said: “Why is that?” He said: “O Messenger of Allaah, when we are with you, you remind us of the Hellfire and Paradise, as if we see them with our own eyes. But when we depart from you, we meet our wives and our children and our homes and we forget much (of what we heard from you).” In the last part of the hadeeth, the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) said to him: “But O Handhala, there is a time for this and a time for that (three times).” Abu Sulaimaan Ad-Daraanee said: “Indeed, when the soul hungers and thirsts, the heart softens and becomes pure. And when it is fed, the heart becomes blinded.”

And from the wisdom behind fasting is that the person who has wealth is caused to realize the blessing of wealth that Allaah has bestowed on him, such that Allaah blessed him with food, drink and sexual intercourse. Many people are deprived of these things, so he should praise Allaah for these blessings and thank Him for granting him them. And he should remember his brother who is poor and who probably goes through the day starved and hungry. So he should be generous to him and give him charity so that he can clothe his nudity and satisfy his hunger.

And from the wisdom behind fasting is that it trains one to curb the soul, and it gives one strength to withhold his soul by its bridle, such that one can govern it and lead it towards that which is good for it and what will make it prosper. This is because the soul commands one to do evil, except for those souls that my Lord has mercy on. So when a person undoes and lets go of his (soul’s) bridle, the soul lands him into many dangers. But when he controls it and curbs it, he is able to lead it to the highest of levels and the greatest of goals.

And from the wisdom of fasting is that the soul is broken down and restricted from having pride, to the point that it humbles itself to the truth and softens itself before the creation. This is because eating, drinking and having sexual intercourse with women – all of these things bring about insolence, arrogance, vanity and pride over people and over the truth. The soul preoccupies itself with trying to obtain these things because of its need for them. So when it obtains these things, the soul feels like it has conquered what it desired and so it falls into the happiness and proudness that is condemned. And this is a cause for its destruction. Only those whom Allaah protects are saved from this.

And from the wisdom behind fasting is that the passageways of blood (in the body) become narrow due to hunger and thirst, so therefore the passageways of the Devil in the human body also become narrower. This is since the Devil flows through the son of Adam like the flowing of blood, as is authentically recorded in the two Saheeh collections. So by fasting, the whisperings of the Devil are subdued and the strength of one’s desires and anger are subjugated. This is why the Prophet (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) said: “O young men! Whoever amongst you can afford it, should get married, for it is the best means for lowering one’s gaze and the best way of keeping (one’s) private parts chaste. But whoever is not able to marry, then let him fast, for it has protection.”

And from the wisdom behind fasting are the health benefits that come as a result of it, which are attained by in-taking little food, allowing the digestive system to rest for a specified time, which lets excess wastes and excrements that are harmful to the body be discharged.

So how great and profound is the wisdom of Allaah, and how beneficial are His commandments to His creatures!

O Allaah, give us comprehension of Your Religion and allow us to understand the inner secrets of Your commandments. Rectify for us the affairs of our Religion and our worldly life. And forgive us and our parents and all the Muslims, by Your mercy, O Most Merciful. And may the peace and blessings of Allaah be on Muhammad (sallallaahu alaihi wasallam) and on his family and all his Companions.

The Ramadhan Blog

Hadith

The Kaa´ba´s Kiswa

The Kaa’ba is covered by a black cloth known as ‘Kiswa’, which is produced and changed every year. It takes place on Dul Hijjah 9 of every year

The Kiswa Factory was built in Makkah about 74 years ago by the Kingdom’s founder King Abdul Aziz. A new kiswa is made every year by Saudis who work at the factory.

The Kiswa is composed of three parts: a Sitaar (curtain) of the Kaaba door, an inner lining curtain inside the Kaaba and a Hizam (the belt). It is manufactured at the Kiswa factory, which is located in Makkah’s Umm Al-Joud suburb. More than 240 people work in the factory.

Masha’Allaah

Expert artisans embroider the cloth with gold and silver threads to create calligraphy using the verses from the Qur’an.

The Kiswa consists of 47 pieces of cloth and each piece is 14 meters long and 101 cm broad. The Kiswa is wrapped around the Kaaba and fixed to the ground with copper rings.

Expert artisan embroider the cloth with gold and silver threads

The black kiswa is made with 670 kg of pure silk, and 150 kg of gold and silver thread that is used for sewing the Qur’anic verses. It is 658 square meters in size and consists of 47 pieces, each 14 meters long and 95 cm wide. It costs about SR16.8 million ($4.5 million).

Please Share this Jazakumullaahu Khayran:

Remaining steadfast after ramadan?

Visitors - shown by country

The Fasting of the One who has abandoned the Prayer

Does Anger break the fast?

Saying Bismillah before pouring hot water

[By: Shaykh Muhammad bin Salih Al-Uthaymeen|Fatwa Arkan-ul-Islam Islamic Verdicts on the Pillars of Islam | Volume 2 | Prayer, Zakah, Fasting, Hajj |Collected & Arranged by: Fahd bin Nasir bin Ibrahim As-Sulaiman | Darussalam]

funny facts. our visitors this week by country

BEWARE OF OVEREATING!!!! WARNING!!!

[Taken from: Tasheel al-Imaam bifiqhi lil-Ahaadith min Buloogh il- Maraam (Shaykh Saalih Fawzaan’s explanation of Bulooghul-Maraam)|Translator: Abu Fouzaan Qaasim]

_____________________________________________________

Footnotes:

1[At-Tirmithee (2317) Declared saheeh by al- Albaanee] – The hadeeth in Bulooghul-Maraam is not in its totality. The complete hadeeth can be found in ibn Maajah (#3349).

Admiring oneself after doing a good deed?

Books recommended - Albani

[Al-Asaalah, Issue #5][Source al-manhaj|Abdurahman.org]

Books recommended for beginners - Muqbil

[Taken From Tuhfatul Mujeeb ‘Alaa Asilatil-Hadhir wal-Ghareeb, p.156, Dar al-Aathar|Shaykh Muqbil ibn Haadi al-Waad'iee |Translated By: 'Amr Basheer|Abdurahman.org]

Books recommended to study - Fawzan

Part 01: Books Recommended by Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan in ‘Aqeedah

Part 02: Books Recommended by Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan in Tafseer

For the Beginner:

Part 03: Books Recommended by Shaykh Saalih al-Fawzaan in Hadeeth

Words of Advice for Ramadan - Uthaymeen

[Shaykh 'Ibn Baaz|Fataawa Ramadhaan - Volume 1, Page 32, Fatwa No.7;|Majmoo' Fataawa Samaahatu as-Shaykh 'Abdul-'Azeez Ibn Baaz - Volume 3, Pages 147-148]

lying and backbiting while fasting?!

Is it permissible for those who do hard work to break the fast during Ramadaan?

Rulings for Fasting that are Specific for Women

The Wisdom and Benefits behind Fasting

How do we reconcile between the hadeeth, “If the first half of Sha’baan has past, then do not fast…” and “The most beloved of months for the Messenger of Allaah to fast in was Sha’baan…”

1st of (the month of) Sha´abaan

The Inner Secrets of Fasting

He fasts but he does not pray

The permissibility of women attending Taraweeh

The basis for Salaat at-Taraweeh

Permissibility of using kohl

The one who denies the obligation of Zakaah is a disbeliever

Is it required to make intention (to fast) everyday in Ramadhaan

Permissibility of using Siwaak during Ramadhaan

For whom is the fasting of Ramadhaan obligatory?

Slaughtering a sacrificial animal on the Night of Isra’ and Mi‘raj is a sin

Yearly sacrifice on the 27th of Rajab

Ruling on celebrating the night of the twenty-seventh of Rajab and the night of the middle of Sha‘ban

Ruling on slaughtering sacrificial animals on occasions like the middle of Sha‘ban

The excellence of reading the Qur’aan

From the etiquettes of fasting

Does haraam speech invalidate the fast?

The ruling on whoever only fasts and prays during Ramadhan

What is Prohibited and Disliked for the one Fasting

Terrorism - ang självmordsbombningen i sthlm 11-12-10

Ensuring a Successful Ramadhaan

bad speech and backbiting, does it affect the fasting?

Second Hand Smoke and Fasting

Ensure a successful Ramadhaan

SaddaqAllahul Adheem?

i´tikaaf

Bringing children to the masjid?

Who are the scholars? ulama? LINKS!

A Concise Introduction to the Khawaarij

The Inner Secrets of Fasting By Imaam Ibn Qudaamah al-Maqdisee

Innovated ahadith about Ramadaan

Saying Ameen in the Qunoot

dont know who wrote it...

thursday

my ramadhan so far, day 11

funny story about following sunnah.

my first tareweeh

The Wisdom of Zakah

tonight