Islam

90. Why is the word jihad applied to the battles of the early Muslims?

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Because these battles had to be fought for the very existence of the religion of Islam, and because the Muslims had to strive hard by risking their lives and by sacrificing their possessions. Taking part in these battles was a great struggle, done only to save Islam from destruction and no other reason.

Before their emigration (hijra) to Madina, while living in Makka, the converts to Islam had to face terrible persecution and torture. But they bore it all with patience. In the Quran this was also called a jihad on their part. After the Muslims had been forced to emigrate to Madina, the opponents of Islam in Makka decided to wage war upon them. So the Muslims then had to fight battles in self-defence. As they had no proper army or equipment, each member of the Muslim community had to do, and to give, all that he or she could. They volunteered to fight in the battles, and gave their money and possessions for the war. Therefore this was called a jihad by means of one's life and property.

Non-Muslim

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"Allah does not forbid you concerning those people who do not fight you because of your religion, nor expel you from your homes, that you show them kindness and deal with them justly.. . . Allah forbids you only concerning those people who fight you for your religion, and drive you from your homes and help others to expel you, that you make friends of them." (60: 8,9)

"Whatever good they (people of other religions) do, they will not be denied it (by Allah), and Allah knows who the righteous are." (3:115)

"O you who believe, be upright for Allah, bearers of witness with justice; and do not let the hatred of a people incite you not to act with justice. Be just; that is nearer to observance of duty." (5:8)

"Call (others) to the way of your Lord with wisdom and goodly exhortation, and argue with them in the best manner." (16:125)

"Argue not with the people of the Book (Jews, Christians, and other people having scriptures) except by the best (means), save those of them who act unjustly. But say: We believe in that which has been revealed to us and revealed to you, and our God and your God is One, and to Him we submit." (29:46)

A companion of the Holy Prophet relates:

"A funeral procession passed by the Holy Prophet, and he stood up for it. People said to him: It was the funeral of a Jew. He said: Was it not a human life?" (Report in Bukhari.)

Husband and Wife

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"They (your wives) are a garment for you, and you are a garment for them." (2:187)

"Of His (Allah's) signs is that He created spouses for you from yourselves so that you might find quiet of mind in them, and He put between you love and compassion." (30:21)

"The best of you are those who are kindest to their wives." (Holy Prophet in Tirmizi.)

A man related:

"I asked Aishah (Holy Prophet's wife): What did the Prophet do when in his house? She said, `He served his wife', meaning that he did work for his wife." (Report in Bukhari.)

Poor and Needy

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"Righteous is he who . . . gives away wealth out of love for Him to the near of kin and the orphans and the needy and the wayfarer and to those who ask and to set slaves free." (2:177)

"What will make you understand what the uphill road (to success) is? (It is) to free a slave, or feed at a time of hunger an orphan who is a relative or the poor man lying in the dust." (90:11-16)

"Have you seen him who goes against religion? That is the one who is rough to the orphan and does not urge the feeding of the needy." (107:1-3)

"(The true believers are those) in whose wealth there is a known right for the beggar and the destitute." (70:24-25)

"The person who manages things for the widow and the poor is like the one who strives hard in the way of Allah." (Holy Prophet in Bukhari.)

Honesty

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"Don't go near the property of an orphan, except in a goodly way, till he attains maturity. And fulfil the promise (you make) . . .. Give full measure when you measure out, and weigh with a true balance." (17:34-35)

"Do not swallow up your property among yourselves by false means, nor offer it as a bribe to the officials so that you may swallow up other people's property unlawfully while you know." (2:188)

The Wedding Night In Islam

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Wedding Night A‘māl

It is narrated from the Prophet (s): “The doors of Heaven to mercy will be opened in four situations: when it rains; when a child looks kindly at his parent’s face; when the door of the Ka‘bah is opened; and when marriage (occurs).”

As indicated by the above tradition, the concept of marriage in Islam is so sacred and valued, that the doors of Allāh (swt)’s mercy are open on this occasion

.

Indeed, this is not surprising when one considers that marriage secures a large portion of one’s faith and protects it from the evil of Satan, as narrated from the Prophet (s): “There is not a single young person that gets married during his youth, except that his Satan cries out that ‘Woe onto him, woe onto him, he has protected two thirds of his faith from me’; therefore, mankind must have taqwā (God-Conciousness) in Allāh (swt) to protect the remaining one third of his faith.”

It is therefore essential that a couple, when embarking on this step, take utmost care to protect the sanctity of this sacred union and do not taint it from the start by allowing the occasion of marriage to become a source of sin and extravagance.

In particular, the wedding night is the first night that a man and woman come together as husband and wife, and it is highly recommended that they form this union with the intention of obtaining the nearness and pleasure of Allāh (swt) and perform the recommended amaal for this night.

At this point it is necessary to take a look at what state the ‘mistress of the women of the worlds’, Hadrat Fātima (as) had on the night of her wedding, and how she started her life with her husband, Imām ‘Alī (as) the wedding night, Imām ‘Alī (as) Hadrat Fātima (as) upset and in tears, and asked her why she was in this state. She replied: “I thought about my state and actions and remembered the end of life and my grave; that today I have gone from my father’s house to your house, and another day I will go from here to the grave and the Day of Judgement (Qiyāmat). Therefore, I swear by you to Allāh (swt); come let us stand for Salāt so that we can worship Allāh (swt) together in this night.”

The following A‘māl are recommended for this night:

1. Try to be in Wudū for as much of the night as possible, and especially during the amaals below.

2. Begin by praising Allāh (swt), then say Allāhu Akbar (أللهُ أكَْبر), followed by a Salawāt (أللهم صلى على محمّد و آل محمّد).

3. Recite a two Rak’at Salāt, with the intention of ‘Mustahab Qurbatan Ilallāh (swt)’ [a recommended prayer, seeking the pleasure of Allāh (swt)], followed by a Salawāt.

4. Recite the following Du‘ā, followed by a Salawāt. First the groom should recite it, after which the bride should say: Ilāhī Amīn [May Allāh (swt) accept this].

أَللٌّهُمَّ ارْزُقْنِي إِلْفَهَا وَ وُدَّهَا وَ رِضَاهَا وَ رَضِّـنِي بِهَا ثُمَّ اجْمَعْ بَيْنَـنَا بِأَحْسَنِ اجْتِمَاعٍ وَ أَسَرِّ ائْتِلاَفٍ فَإِنَّكَ تُحِبُّ الْحَلاَلَ وَ تَكْرَهُ الْحَرَام.

“O Allāh (swt)! Bless me with her affection, love and her acceptance of me; and make me pleased with her, and bring us together in the best form of a union and in absolute harmony; surely You like lawful things and dislike unlawful things.”

5. Even if a couple are not intending to conceive on the wedding night, it is recommended that the following Du‘ās are recited for righteous children (whenever they are conceived):

a. The groom should then place his right palm on the bride’s forehead facing Qibla and recite:

أَللٌّهُمَّ بِأَمَانَتِكَ أَخَذْتُهَا وَ بِكَلِمَاتِكَ اسْتَحْلَلْـتُهَا فَإِنْ قَضَيْتَ لِي مِنْهَا وَلَداً فَاجْعَلْهُ مُبَارَكاً تَقِيًّا مِنْ شِيعَةِ آلِ مُحَمَّدٍ وَ لاَ تَجْعَلْ لِلشَّيْطَانِ فِيهِ شِرْكاً وَ لاَ نَصِيباً.

“O Allāh! I have taken her as Your trust and have made her lawful for myself by Your words. Therefore, if you have decreed for me a child from her, then make him/her blessed and pious from among the followers of the family of Muhammad; and do not let the Satan have any part in him/her.”

b. The following Du‘ā should also be recited:

أَللٌّهُمَّ بِكَلِمَاتِكَ اسْتَحْلَلْتُهَا وَ بِأَمَانَتِكَ أَخَذْتُهَا. أَللٌّهُمَّ اجْعَلْهَا وَلُوداً وَدُوداً لاَ تَفْرَكُ تَأْكُلُ مِمَّا رَاحَ وَ لاَ تَسْأَلُ عَمَّا سَرَحَ.

“O Allāh! I have made her lawful for myself with Your words, and I have taken her in Your trust. O Allāh! Make her fertile and devoted.”

6. The groom should wash the bride’s feet and sprinkle that water in all the four corners of the room and house. Allāh (swt) will remove 70,000 types of poverty, 70,000 types of blessings will enter the house and 70,000 blessings will come upon the bride and groom. The bride will be safe from insanity, ulcers and leprosy.

Some Points about the ‘Aqd & Wedding

1. One should refrain from having the ‘Aqd or wedding duringQamar Dar Akrab – when the moon is passing through the phase of Scorpio.

2. One should refrain from having the ‘Aqd or wedding outdoors, under the sunlight.

3. It is recommended that the ‘Aqd and wedding take place at night.

NOTE: It is important to note that the main objective of the wedding is the joining of a man and a woman. More often than not, weddings that take place today are long and extremely tiring for the bride and groom; they reach their room late at night and not fit for the recommended A‘māl of this sacred night, nor much else. Therefore, it is recommended that the procedures of this night are kept simple and to a bare minimum. If other ceremonies are desired, they should be held on the preceding or proceeding nights.

Some Points for the Bride and Groom

1. It is not necessary that consummation of the marriage take place on the wedding night; rather it may take a few days or even a few weeks.

2. Fatigue, nervousness and tension may make it harder; therefore it is important that husband and wife take time to get comfortable with each other and move at their own pace.

3. Artificial lubrication may be needed for the first few days or weeks in order to make consummation easier and more enjoyable.

4. Early or premature ejaculation may be a problem for the first few times; however, this should eventually be resolved after time and experience.

5. The hymen may or may not bleed. Foreplay, gentleness and intercourse again soon after can help reduce the pain of the tearing of the hymen.

6. After consummation (whenever it may be), the bride should not have milk, vinegar, coriander, sour apple or melon for a week, as they cause the womb to dry up and become cold and barren. Eating vinegar at this time also results in the woman not becoming clean (ritually clean) from the blood of menstruation, coriander (and watermelon) results in a difficult labour and sour apple results in the stopping (of regularity) of menstruation, and these all result in illnesses.

7. People may make certain comments over the next few days. It is important not to let this affect you, and not to get drawn in to their conversations.

8. Don’t talk about your intimate details to outsiders; maintain respect of your spouse and your relationship.

The Wedding of Imām ‘Alī (as) and Hadrat Fātima (as)

The ‘Aqd (Marriage Contract)

The Prophet (s) desired to have the ‘Aqd recited in the mosque and in the presence of the people. Imām ‘Alī (as) joyfully went to the mosque and the Prophet (s) also entered the mosque. The Muhājirīn and Ansār gathered around them. The Prophet (s) went on the minbar and after praising and thanking Allāh (swt), said: “Oh people! Know that Jibrā’il descended on me and brought a message from Allāh (swt) that the ceremony of the ‘Aqd of ‘Alī (as) has taken place in the presence of the Angels in ‘Bait al-Ma‘mur.’ Allāh (swt) has commanded that I perform this ceremony on earth and make you all witnesses.” At the point, the Prophet (s) recited the ‘Aqd.

Then the Prophet (s) said to Imām ‘Alī (as): “Get up and give a speech.” Imām ‘Alī (as) got to his feet and after remembering and thanking Allāh (swt) began his speech and expressed his satisfaction and contentment at his marriage to Hadrat Fātima (as).

The people prayed for him and said: “May Allāh (swt) bless this marriage, and place love and friendship in your hearts.”

The Wedding

The wedding ceremony took place on the 1st of Dhul Hijjah, 2 AH (or 6th of Dhul Hijjah, 2 AH), one month after the ‘Aqd.

Between the ‘Aqd and the wedding ceremony, Imām ‘Alī (as) was shy to speak about his wife to the Prophet (s). One day, his brother ‘Aqīl asked him: “Why don’t you bring your wife to the house so that we can congratulate you for the occasion of your wedding?” This topic reached the Prophet (s), who called Imām ‘Alī (as) and asked him: “Are you ready to get married?”

Imām ‘Alī (as) gave a positive response. The Prophet (s) said: “Insha-Allāh, tonight or tomorrow night, I will make arrangements for the wedding.” At that time, he told his wives to dress Hadrat Fātima (as) and to perfume her and to carpet her room so as to prepare for the wedding ceremony.

The Prophet (s) told Imām ‘Alī (as): “There cannot be a wedding without guests.” One of the leaders of the Ansār named Sa’ad said: “I gift you a sheep,” and a group of the Ansār also brought some corn, and some dried whey, oil and dates were also bought from the bazār. The meat was cooked and the Prophet (s) with his purity took the responsibility of cooking for the wedding, and with his blessed hands, mixed them (the ingredients) and began preparing a type of ‘Arabic dish called Habīs or Hais.

However, although the food was prepared, the invitation was public. A large number took part and with the blessings of the Prophet’s (s) hands, everyone ate and became full from the food, and there was even some left over for the poor and needy; a dish was also placed for the bride and groom.

The Prophet (s) told his wives to prepare a celebration for Hadrat Fātima (as) After food, the ladies gathered around Hadrat Fātima (as) and the Prophet (s) helped her get on his horse. Salmān al-Fārsī took hold of the horse’s reins and with the special ceremony, brave men such as Hamza and a number of the family and mahārim of Hadrat Fātima (as) gathered around the horse with drawn swords. Many women waited behind the bride and recited Takbir.

The horse began moving, and the ladies began reciting Takbir and praises of Allāh (swt). At that time, one by one, they read beautiful hymns that had been composed, and with splendour and joy, took the bride to the house of the groom. The Prophet (s) also reached the group and entered the bridal chamber. He requested a dish of water, and when that was brought, he sprinkled some on Hadrat Fātima’s (as) chest and told her to do Wudū and wash her mouth with the rest of the water. He sprinkled some water on Imām ‘Alī (as) as well and told him to do Wudū and wash his mouth.

The Prophet (s) then took Hadrat Fātima’s (as) hand and placed it in the hand of Imām (as) and said: “Oh ‘Alī! May you be blessed; Allāh (swt) bestowed on you the daughter of the Prophet (s) of Allāh (swt), who is the best of women (of the world).” He then addressed Hadrat Fātima (as) and said: “Oh Fātima, ‘Alī is from the best of husbands.”

He then recited a Du‘ā for them: “Oh Allāh, make them familiar (close) to each other! Oh Allāh, bless them! And place for them blessings in their life.”

As he was about to leave, he said: “Allāh has made you and your offspring pure (ritually clean). I am a friend of your friends, and an enemy of your enemies. I now bid you farewell and deposit you with Allāh.”

The next morning, the Prophet (s) went to see his daughter. After that visit, he did not go to their house for three days, but went on the fourth day.

Hadrat Khadīja’s (as) Wish

On the wedding night of Hadrat Fātima (as), Asma bint Omaīs (or Umme Salama) who was among the women, asked permission from the Prophet (s) if she could stay near Fātima so as to carry out any needs she may have. She said to the Prophet (s): “When the time of the death of Khadīja came in Makkah, I was next to her and saw that Khadīja was crying. I said to her: “You are the ‘mistress of the women of the worlds’ and the wife of the Prophet (s) and despite this you are crying whereas Allāh (swt) has given you the good tidings of heaven?” Khadīja (as) replied: “I am not crying because of death; rather I am crying for Fātima who is a small girl and women on their wedding night need a woman from their relatives and close ones (mahram) who will tell them their hidden secrets, and I am afraid that that night, my dear Fātima will not have anyone.”

Then I told Khadīja (as) that, “I swear to my God that if I stay alive until that day, on that night I will stay in that house in your place.” Now I would like permission from you that you excuse me so that I can keep my promise.” Upon hearing this, the Prophet (s) started crying and gave me permission to stay and prayed for me.

The Wedding Suit

On the wedding night of Imām ‘Alī (as) and Hadrat Fātima (as), the Prophet (s) gave her a (wedding) suit to wear on that night. When Hadrat Fātima (as) had gone to the wedding house and was sitting on the prayer mat praying to Allāh (swt), suddenly a needy person came to the door of the house of Hadrat Fātima (as) and with a loud voice said: “From the door of the house of Prophethood, I want an old suit.”

At that time, Hadrat Fātima (as) had two suits, one old and the other new. She wanted to give the old suit as per the request of the needy man, when suddenly she remembered a verse which states: “You will never attain piety until you spend out of what you hold dear.” Hadrat Fātima (as), who knew she liked the new suit more, acted on this verse and gave the new suit to the needy man.

The next day, when the Prophet (s) saw the old suit on Hadrat Fātima (as), he asked: “Why didn’t you wear the new suit?” Hadrat Fātima (as) replied: “I gave it to a needy man.” The Prophet (s) said: “If you had worn the new shirt for your husband, it would have been better and more suitable.” Hadrat Fātima (as) replied: “I learnt this manner from you. When my mother Khadija became your wife, she gave all her wealth to the empty-handed in your path, until it reached a point when a needy person came to the door of your house and requested clothes. There were no clothes in the house so you took off your shirt and gave it to him, and this verse was revealed: “Do not keep your hand chained to your neck, nor open it all together, or you will sit blameworthy, regretful.”

Overwhelmed by the love and sincerity of his daughter Zahrā (as), tears fell from the Prophet (s)’s (s) eyes, and as a sign of love, he hugged Hadrat Fātima (as) to his chest.

1. Did You Thank Allah for Your Eyesight?

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A blind boy sat on the steps of a building with a hat by his feet. He held up a sign which said: "I am blind, please help." There were only a few coins in the hat. A man was walking by. He took a few coins from his pocket and dropped them into the hat. He then took the sign, turned it around, and wrote some words. He put the sign back so that everyone who walked by would see the new words. Soon the hat began to fill up. A lot more people were giving money to the blind boy. That afternoon the man who had changed the sign came to see how things were. The boy recognized his footsteps and asked, "Were you the one who changed my sign this morning? What did you write?" The man said, "I only wrote the truth. I said what you said but in a different way." What he had written was: "Today is a beautiful day and I cannot see it." Do you think the first sign and the second sign were saying the same thing? Of course both signs told people the boy was blind. But the first sign simply said the boy was blind. The second sign told people they were so lucky that they were not blind. Should we be surprised that the second sign was more effective? "It is He, Who has created for you (the sense of) hearing (ears), sight (eyes), and hearts (understanding). Little thanks you give." [surah Al-Mu'minun; 78]

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Verse of the Day

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[Quran 11:18]

And who does more wrong than he who invents a lie against Allâh. Such will be brought before their Lord, and the witnesses will say, "These are the ones who lied against their Lord!" No doubt! the curse of Allâh is on the Zâlimûn (polytheists, wrong-doers, oppressors, etc.).

Verse of the Day

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[Quran 29:64]

And this life of the world is only amusement and play! Verily, the home of the Hereafter, that is the life indeed (i.e. the eternal life that will never end), if they but knew

Rights of Neighbors

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Chapter 39

Rights of Neighbors

Allah, the Exalted, says:

"Worship Allah and join none with Him (in worship); and do good to parents, kinsfolk, orphans, Al-Masakin (the poor), the neighbour who is near of kin, the neighbour who is a stranger, the companion by your side, the wayfarer (you meet), and those (slaves) whom your right hands possess.'' (4:36)

303. Ibn `Umar and `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "Jibril kept recommending treating neighbours with kindness until I thought he would assign a share of inheritance".

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Commentary: This Hadith illustrates the importance of nice treatment to neighbours in Islam.

304. Abu Dharr (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) commanded me thus, "O Abu Dharr! Whenever you prepare a broth, put plenty of water in it, and and give some of it to your neighbours".

[Muslim].

In another narration of Muslim, narrated Abu Dharr (May Allah be pleased with him): My friend, (Messenger of Allah (PBUH)) advised me saying, "Whenever you prepare a broth, put plenty of water in it, and give some to your neighbours and then give them out of this with courtesy.''

Commentary: This Hadith makes it clear that Islam does not like a Muslim to ignore his poor neighbour and eat up everything himself. It stresses that one must take care of his poor neighbours. If a person is not in a position to do more, he should at least add some water in the broth he cooks for his own food and send a portion of it to his deserving neighbour. It leads us to the conclusion that a Muslim should in no case be unmindful of his neighbour and if he is well-to-do, he should be all the more charitable to his neighbours.

305. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, "By Allah, he is not a believer! By Allah, he is not a believer! By Allah, he is not a believer.'' It was asked, "Who is that, O Messenger of Allah?'' He said, "One whose neighbour does not feel safe from his evil".

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Another narration of Muslim is: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "He will not enter Jannah whose neighbour is not secure from his wrongful conduct".

Commentary: This Hadith reveals that hurting or troubling a neighbour is such a serious offence that it causes Allah's Wrath, and thus punishment in Hell.

306. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "O Muslim women! No one of you should consider insignificant (a gift) to give to her neighbour even if it is (a gift of) the trotters of a sheep".

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Commentary: This Hadith means that neighbours should present gifts to each other. The rich men and the poor according to their means. One who is poor should not think that what he is presenting to his neighbour is not worthy of giving. Even his humble gift, provided it is presented with sincerity, will find acceptance with Allah. According to the Noble Qur'an: "So whosoever does good equal to the weight of an ant (or a small ant) shall see it.'' (99:7)

It is, however, better for a rich person to present a gift which goes well with his means. He should not give anything to his neighbour which is stale or which he does not like for himself because apart from insincerity, such a thing shows his contempt for the neighbour while gift is, in fact, a token of sincerity and brotherhood.

307. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "No one should prohibit his neighbour from placing a peg in his wall". Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) added: Now I see you turning away from this (Sunnah), but by Allah, I shall go on proclaiming it.

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Commentary: The importance of the injunction contained in this Hadith comes into prominence in localities comprising huts and tents, or at places where the two neighbours still have common walls between their houses. (In big cities each house has its own independent walls.) In any case, it is evident from this Hadith that a Muslim should be considerate of his neighbours. Islam ordains us to co-operate and sympathize with them. All Muslims are likened to a body each organ of which is linked with the other. In the light of this injunction, one can very well understand the rights of the neighbours in Islam.

308. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "He who believes in Allah and the Last Day let him not harm his neighbour; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day let him show hospitality to his guest; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day let him speak good or remain silent".

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Commentary: This Hadith unfolds the fruits of Faith. One who does not have the qualities mentioned in it, is deprived of the blessings of the Faith. Faith of such a person is like a fruitless tree, or a flower without fragrance, or a body without soul.

309. Abu Shuraih Al-Khuza`i (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, "He who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him be kind to his neighbour; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him show hospitality to his guest; and he who believes in Allah and the Last Day, let him either speak good or remain silent".

[Muslim].

310. `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported: I said, "O Messenger of Allah (PBUH), I have two neighbours, to which of them should I send a present?'' He (PBUH) replied, "To the one whose door is nearer to you".

[Al-Bukhari]

Commentary: When a Muslim does not have the means to present gifts to his neighbours and wants to present a gift only to one of them, he should go by the principle laid down in this Hadith. The principle enunciated here is: "One who is the nearest neighbour, should have precedence over all others.''

311. `Abdullah bin `Umar (May Allah be pleased with them) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "The best of companions with Allah is the one who is best to his companions, and the best of neighbours to Allah is the one who is the best of them to his neighbour".

[At-Tirmidhi].

Commentary: Companion is a common word which covers companions in journey and stay. Muslims are ordained to treat all of them nicely. But one's neighbour has precedence over others. Nice treatment to him is the best means to attain a distinctive place with Allah.

Truthfulness

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Truthfulness

Allah, the Exalted, says:

"O you who believe! Be afraid of Allah, and be with those who are true (in words and deeds)". (9:119)

"...the men and women who are truthful (in their speech and deeds)..". (33:35)

"...then if they had been true to Allah, it would have been better for them". (47:21)

54. Abdullah bin Mas`ud (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, "Truth leads to piety and piety leads to Jannah. A man persists in speaking the truth till he is enrolled with Allah as a truthful. Falsehood leads to vice and vice leads to the Fire (Hell), and a person persists on telling lies until he is enrolled as a liar".' [Agreed upon].

Commentary: Siddiq (veracious) and Kadhdhab (liar) both are adjectives of intensive degree. That is to say, the words stand respectively for someone whose truth has become his second nature; and in the opposite case, one is a liar who is in the habit of telling lies. As one acquires a reputation in this world for his good or bad deeds similar is his position before Allah. One who is ranked among the truthful with Him is entitled to reward, and if one is a liar, he has to suffer retribution for it. This Hadith provides incentive for truthfulness because it is a source of every good deed and contains a warning against lying as it gives rise to all kinds of mischief.

55. Hasan bin `Ali (May Allah be pleased with them) said: I remember (these words) from Messenger of Allah (PBUH): "Give up what is doubtful to you for that which is not doubtful; for truth is peace of mind and falsehood is doubt". [At-Tirmidhi].

Commentary: This Hadith leads us to the conclusion that one must always avoid doubtful things so that he does not do anything unlawful. This message is repeated in another Hadith which says that he who has saved himself from doubts has in fact saved his Faith and honour.

56. Abu Sufyan (May Allah be pleased with him) reported, in course of his detailed narration about Heraclius when the latter questioned him about the teachings of the Prophet (PBUH) He said that: He (PBUH) told (us): "Worship Allah Alone and do not associate a thing with Him; and give up all that your ancestors said. "He also commands us to perform Salat (prayers), to speak the truth, to observe modesty and to strengthen the ties of kinship. [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Commentary: In this Hadith an enemy of the Prophet (PBUH) acknowledges the veracity of the Prophet's teaching, because Abu Sufyan (May Allah be pleased with him) made this admission when he was a pagan. This Hadith is mentioned in detail in Sahih Al-Bukhari.

57. Abu Thabit from Sahl bin Hunaif (May Allah be pleased with him) said: The Prophet (PBUH) said: "He who asks Allah for martyrdom, Allah will raise him to the high status of the martyrs, even if he dies on his bed". [Muslim].

Commentary: This Hadith highlights the merit and importance of sincere intention which in fact is so great that by virtue of it Allah raises a person's status to that of a martyr. On the contrary, persons of foul intention will be consigned to Hell by Allah even if they die in Jihad.

58. Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: "One of the earlier Prophets who was out on an expedition proclaimed among his people that no man should follow him who had married a woman with whom he wished to cohabit but had not yet done so, or who had built houses on which he had not yet put the roofs, or who had bought sheep or pregnant she-camels and was expecting them to produce young. He, then, went on the expedition and approached the town at the time of the 'Asr prayer or little before it. He then told the sun that both it and he were under command and prayed Allah to hold it back for them, so it was held back till Allah gave him victory. He collected the spoils and it (meaning fire) came to devour these, but did not. He said that among the people there was a man who stole from the booty. He told them that a man from every tribe must swear allegiance to him, and when a man's hand stuck to his, he said: "There is thief among you and every individual of your tribe must swear allegiance to me". (In course of swearing of allegiance,) hands of two or three persons stuck to his hand. He said: "The thief is among you". They brought him a head of gold like a cow's head and when he laid it down, the fire came and devoured the spoils. Spoils were not allowed to anyone before us, then Allah allowed spoils to us as He saw our weakness and incapacity and allowed them to us". [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Commentary: 1. In the opinion of Imam As-Suyuti, the Prophet (PBUH) referred to in this Hadith was Prophet Yusha` bin Nun (Joshua). His conduct shows that it is necessary to make suitable arrangements for the worldly needs of those who are engaged in the Cause of Allah so that they can concentrate on their struggle without any distraction.

2. The lawfulness of the booty of war fought in the way of Allah is a specialty of the Muslim Ummah. Before the advent of Islam (the Shar'iah of Prophet Muhammad (PBUH)), the booty of war which was free from dishonesty used to be consumed by fire. This Hadith also confirms the miracle of the Prophet Yusha' (Joshua) in which the movement of the sun was stopped until he had conquered the village.

59. Hakim bin Hizam (May Allah be pleased with him) reported that: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said: "Both parties in a business transaction have a right to annul it so long as they have not separated; and if they tell the truth and make everything clear to each other (i.e., the seller and the buyer speak the truth, the seller with regard to what is purchased, and the buyer with regard to the money) they will be blessed in their transaction, but if they conceal anything and lie, the blessing on their transaction will be eliminated.'' [Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Commentary: Here, the two persons engaged in business are seller and buyer. The word 'right' here means that so far both of them are present at the spot where business is being transacted they have a right to cancel their bargain. In other words, even after the mutual acceptance of the terms of the bargain so long as they are present at the spot they are entitled to cancel the deal until the time they separate from each other. Generally, people do not think it permissible to cancel the bargain after it has been settled even though both parties are present there, but this is not correct. Their view is contradicted by the Hadith.Truthfulness is a means of blessings in the business while falsehood and hiding of any defect of the merchandise detract from its blessings.

Hadith Qudsi

2013-04-22T17:50:00.001-07:00

On the authority of Abu Hurayrah (may Allah be pleased with him), who said that the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said: When Allah decreed the Creation He pledged Himself by writing in His book which is laid down with Him: My mercy prevails over my wrath. It was related by Muslim (also by al-Bukhari, an-Nasa'i and Ibn Majah).

Quote of the Day

2013-04-22T17:44:00.001-07:00

What are the pillars of Iman (Faith)?
The pillars of Iman are six. The Muslim has to believe in:
(1) Allah
(2) His Angels
(3) His Messengers
(4) His Books
(5) The Last Day
(6) Qadar - Divine Preordainments good or bad.

Verse of the Day

2013-04-22T17:41:00.001-07:00

[Quran 2:155]

And certainly, We shall test you with something of fear, hunger, loss of wealth, lives and fruits, but give glad tidings to As-Sâbirin (the patient ones, etc.).

Hadith of the Day

2013-04-12T16:11:00.000-07:00

Today’s Beautiful Hadith is about Allah’s Names

Reported by Abu Huraira (RA): Allah’s Apostle (peace be upon him) said, ‘Allah has ninety-nine names, i.e. one-hundred minus one, and whoever knows them will go to Paradise.’ (Bukhari

Verse of the day

2013-04-12T16:09:00.001-07:00

[Quran 22:77]

O you who believe! Bow down, and prostrate yourselves, and worship your Lord and do good that you may be successful.

Hadith of the Day

2013-04-11T16:06:00.001-07:00

Hadiths are teachings of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and narrated through the Companions and successors of the Companions. Hadiths are an indispensable and unrivalled source of understanding of the Quran and act as a guidepost in matters of Islamic jurisprudence. Combined with the teachings of the Quran, Hadiths complete our syllabus in practicing Islam. Hadith of the Day presents to you carefully selected Hadiths on issues and matters that are paramount to an Islamic way of life, as Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) had intended for these pearls of wisdom to guide us. Insha'Allah you will find them just as inspiring and enlightening as they have been for me in strengthening my faith and guiding me, drawing me closer to Allah in every step.

Verse of the day

2013-04-11T16:03:00.001-07:00

[Quran 3:31]

Say (O Muhammad to mankind): ‘If you (really) love Allaah, then follow me (i.e. accept Islamic Monotheism, follow the Quraan and the Sunnah), Allaah will love you and forgive you your sins.

Hadith of the Day

2013-04-10T21:36:00.001-07:00

Today’s Beautiful Hadith is about Making Peace

Posted on 11/04/2013 by hadith
Reported by Um Kulthum bint Uqba (RA): That she heard Allah’s Apostle (peace be upon him) saying, ‘He who makes peace between the people by inventing good information or saying good things, is not a liar.’
(Bukhari)

Verse of the Day

2013-04-10T21:33:00.001-07:00

[ Quran 17:34 ]

And come not near to the orphan's property except to improve it, until he attains the age of full strength. And fulfil (every) covenant. Verily! the covenant, will be questioned about.

Influence on Flags

2013-04-09T23:43:00.002-07:00

The colors of the flags of many Muslim nations feature at least two of four colors that were used to symbolize the dynasties that ruled sprawling Middle Eastern empires that spanned from the west coast of Africa to Turkmenistan. Each dynasty flew a different banner. The first among them was the Umayyad Dynasty, who flew a white banner. Second was the Abbasid Dynasty under black. Third came the Fatimid Dynasty, under a green banner. The colors of the banners representing these three dynasties have become a part of those nations today because each dynastic family was said to have descended from Muhammad by either a common ancestor, from his daughter and son-in-law, or an uncle. Additionally, because of the many red flags of the Persian nations, white, black, green, and red became the defining colors of Muslim nations.

Also on many Muslim flags is the Red Crescent, which was widely used in substitution of the Red Cross in anticipation of possibly alienating Muslim soldiers during the Russo-Turkish War. Though it had been used in Turkey and Egypt before, it has since been adopted widely.

In 2006 Darius, Creator of COLOURlovers visited with the Non-Profit CARE to visit their projects in Kabul Afghanistan. Some of the few thousand widows CARE was providing food staples too can be seen wearing their blue chadri. The Afghan chadri covers the woman's entire face except for a small region about the eyes, which is covered by a concealing net or grille.

Hadith of The Day

2013-04-09T23:11:00.000-07:00

Today’s Beautiful Hadith is about Gifts

Reported by Abu Huraira (RA): The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, ‘O Muslim women! None of you should look down upon the gift sent by her she-neighbour even if it were the trotters of the sheep (fleshless part of legs).’ (Bukhari)

Verse of the Day

2013-04-09T14:53:00.001-07:00

[Quran 6:151]

Join not anything in worship with Him[Allah], be good and dutiful to your parents..

Hadith of the Day

2013-04-09T13:20:00.000-07:00

Today’s Beautiful Hadith is about Redemption

Reported by Abu Huraira (RA): Allah’s Apostle (peace be upon him) said, ‘Whoever has oppressed another person concerning his reputation or anything else, he should beg him to forgive him before the Day of Resurrection when there will be no money (to compensate for wrong deeds), but if he has good deeds, those good deeds will be taken from him according to his oppression which he has done, and if he has no good deeds, the sins of the oppressed person will be loaded on him.’ (Bukhari)