Ramadan Blog | Ramadan Mubarak | Ramadan Kareem

Best Way To Start Ramadan Suhaib Webb

2014-06-28T08:52:00.001-04:00

The Best Way to Start Ramadan: Ramadān Reinforcement (Part 1)

By Suhaib Webb

One question I get asked a lot is "What is the best way to start Ramadān?"

I thought about this for sometime, and here is my answer: "The best way to start Ramadān this year is the way you ended it last year."

Meaning: you should start Ramadān with the same passion, focus and commitment that you completed the last ten days of last year's Ramadān with. (if you didn't end it well last year, stay tuned for another short reminder soon: "How to fix a broken Ramadān?")

Do These Seven and Go to Heaven, Inshallah!

I know it sounds easy. But give it a try! Try having the same passion you had last year in the following areas today and see where it takes you tomorrow:

1. When you stand to pray, muster the passion you had a year ago as Ramadān came to a close. The concentration and taste of it should be in your heart, your body should be calm and your soul submerged in the light of prayer. The Prophet (sa) said, "Whoever prays and his/her soul does not disturb him/her during prayer, his/her sins are forgiven."

2. When you make dua, let it all out, give it to Allāh now, feeling impoverished to him like you did last year at the end of Ramadān. The Prophet (sa) said, "The supplications of a fasting person are accepted."

3. Let the tears flow now. Dry lands can't grow much and neither can dry hearts. A teacher once told me, "Tears come from fertile hearts like springs come from fertile soil." Sit alone with Allah and cry to him, seek him, beg him and flee to him "You will find him forgiving, merciful."

4. When you remember Allah, do so with the same focus you did last year. Know that "Remember be and I will remember you" is happening every time His blessed names flows from your heart and speech, and that wherever you remember Him (work, home, mosque, school, alone or in a group), He mentions you in front of the angels, says your name and they seek blessings and forgiveness for you saying as is mentioned in the Qur'an,"Forgive those who believe, follow your path and save them from Hell."

5. Taste the sweetness of the hereafter, knowing the bitter taste of this life. Recall how your heart felt the last 10 days; there was nothing more valuable to you then drawing nearer to him and farther from excess here. Muster that passion now. Become a stranger in this life or a traveler because this is not your permanent abode! In the Qur'an, Allah addresses Adam and his wife saying, "You two get out of here (Paradise)." In other places He says, "You (all) get out of here."

My teacher said, "You all is all of us, Adam and his progeny. We were evicted from our real home and soon, God willing we will return to it if we lived good lives for Allah. This world is not it. Paradise awaits."

6. Guard your time now like you did last year. Ibn al-Qayyim said, "I know people more cautious with their time, than bankers are with money."

7. Guard your tongue and your character now like you did the last ten days a year ago! Recall the statement of our Prophet (sa) regarding a person who fails to look after the outer aspects of fasting, "Allah will say, 'I have no need that you left your food and drink."

Gain Infinite Openings

If you start this now, this struggle, God promises you openings and growth. He says,"Those who struggle in our way, we will guide them to infinite ways."

High Intensity Taqqrub

What you are doing when you take on Ramadān like this is intense taqarrub (seeking nearness to Allah, distance from sins and Satan).

The Prophet (sa) said that Allah (swt) said, "A person does not come to me a hands length, except I come to him/her an arm's length. If he/she comes to me walking, I run to him/her."

If you take this bull by the horns and start this month off, with the same passion from a year ago, you are the person mentioned in the hadith above, inshallah.

Illuminated Endings are Rooted in Illuminated Beginnings

Remember! How you start now, tells a lot about last year and this year. Push yourself, asking God to dilate your heart and soul, filling it with guidance and light.

Sheikh al-Islām, Ahmed Zarūq (ra) said,
من كانت بالله بدايته, كانت إليه نهايته

"Who's beginning was with Allah, then his ending is to Allah."

Source Link

Ramadan Mubarak Ramadan Kareem 2014

2014-06-28T08:30:00.000-04:00

Ramadan Mubarak Ramadan Kareem 2014

Ramadan 1435 (2014)

Dear Readers of The Ramadan Blog,

Ramadan Mubarak! Ramadan Kareem!

For many of us in the world, the first day of Ramadan is already underway, Saturday, June 28, 2014.

In Middle Eastern and Asian countries, the first day of Ramadan will be on Sunday, June 29, 2014.

It is with Allah's great blessings that we have reached Ramadan, and have the opportunity to fulfill our religious and spiritual obligations.

Thank Allah for this great occasion, and take this month seriously.

There is no other month such as Ramadan.

Do not let it pass you by.

Ramadan 2014

Ramadan 2014 Start Dates

2014-06-28T08:24:00.001-04:00

When Does Ramadan 2014 Start in US and Saudi Arabia?

Each year, there are sometimes confusions as to when to begin Ramadan. As a general rule of thumb, it is advisable for Muslims to follow their local mosques (masjids) (i.e., the mosque that they typically associate with and pray in).

Sheikh Yasir Qadhi advised this on his Facebook page sometime ago: "Do not make the beginning and ending of the month an issue of ikhtilaf al-quloob (the differing of hearts), and leave it an issue of ikhtilaf al-furoo (trivial differences). In case you don't associate with a particular masjid, go with the majority of Muslims in your community".

That said, here are the start dates of Ramadan 2014 based on geographical regions:

USA

The Assembly of Muslim Jurists of America (AMJA) congratulates Muslims throughout the world, and specifically in the US, on the arrival of the blessed month of Ramadan and announces the following:

Saturday, June 28th, 2014 will be the first day of the blessed month of Ramadan in the US. We ask Allah to make it a month filled with goodness, blessings and closeness to Him. We came to this decision after confirmation of the sighting of the crescent in Yemen. Also, there has been reports of sighting in Texas (Houston) and Alabama.

The Resident Fatwa Committee of AMJA has always adopted the opinion that if the moon is sighed from a trust worthy source(s) anywhere in the world that shared part of the night with the United States of America, and with the condition that the moon sighting is astronomically possible, then that marks the beginning of Ramadan. AMJA acknowledges other valid and legitimate opinions that disagrees with the aforementioned decision and we encourage muslims to accept and respect other opinions.

Thus, we send this announcement and praise Allah, the all mighty, and ask Him to lift the hardship placed on Muslims throughout the world, and specially in Syria, we ask Allah to bless this month of Ramadan and to guide us to the best, and to accept our good deeds, Ameen.

Saudi Arabia

Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting, will begin on tomorrow (Sunday, June, 29, 2014) in Saudi Arabia, the state-run Al-Ekhbariya television channel reported last night.

Citing the authorities, it said that because the crescent moon was unable to be seen with the naked eye last night, Ramadan would begin tomorrow.

According to tradition, it is the sighting with the naked eye of the new moon that signals the start of Ramadan.

Other Gulf monarchies, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates also said Ramadan will start in their countries tomorrow.

Ramadan 2014 Dates

2014-06-28T08:22:00.000-04:00

USA

The Assembly of Muslim Jurists of America (AMJA) congratulates Muslims throughout the world, and specifically in the US, on the arrival of the blessed month of Ramadan and announces the following:

Saturday, June 28th, 2014 will be the first day of the blessed month of Ramadan in the US. We ask Allah to make it a month filled with goodness, blessings and closeness to Him. We came to this decision after confirmation of the sighting of the crescent in Yemen. Also, there has been reports of sighting in Texas (Houston) and Alabama.

The Resident Fatwa Committee of AMJA has always adopted the opinion that if the moon is sighed from a trust worthy source(s) anywhere in the world that shared part of the night with the United States of America, and with the condition that the moon sighting is astronomically possible, then that marks the beginning of Ramadan. AMJA acknowledges other valid and legitimate opinions that disagrees with the aforementioned decision and we encourage muslims to accept and respect other opinions.

Thus, we send this announcement and praise Allah, the all mighty, and ask Him to lift the hardship placed on Muslims throughout the world, and specially in Syria, we ask Allah to bless this month of Ramadan and to guide us to the best, and to accept our good deeds, Ameen.

Saudi Arabia

Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting, will begin on tomorrow (Sunday) in Saudi Arabia, the state-run Al-Ekhbariya television channel reported last night.

Citing the authorities, it said that because the crescent moon was unable to be seen with the naked eye last night, Ramadan would begin tomorrow.
According to tradition, it is the sighting with the naked eye of the new moon that signals the start of Ramadan.
Other Gulf monarchies, including Bahrain, Kuwait, Qatar and the United Arab Emirates also said Ramadan will start in their countries tomorrow.
- See more at: http://www.themalaymailonline.com/world/article/ramadan-begins-sunday-in-saudi-many-arab-states#sthash.IVcLisdN.dpuf

Ramadan, the Muslim holy month of fasting, will begin on tomorrow (Sunday) in Saudi Arabia, the state-run Al-Ekhbariya television channel reported last night.

Khutbah: Laylat al-Qadr - A Night Better Than A Thousand Months

2013-07-31T12:44:00.002-04:00

Khutbah: Laylat al-Qadr - A Night Better Than A Thousand Months

A new video by Shaykh Yasir Qadhi on Laylat-al-Qadr explaining the timing and meaning of the most blessed night of the year.

Indeed, We sent the Qur'an down during the Night of Decree. And what can make you know what is the Night of Decree? The Night of Decree is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit descend therein by permission of their Lord for every matter. Peace it is until the emergence of dawn.

[Surat Al-Qadr]

Health Benefits of Fasting

2013-07-11T08:33:00.000-04:00

Ramadan 2013 | Ramadan 1434

Many people observe fasting as a religious obligation, but only few know the health benefits it has. Fasting is a good practice, if properly implemented. It promotes elimination of toxins from the body, reduces blood sugar ans fat stores. It promote healthy eating habits and boost immunity.

Here are top 10 health benefits you ca derive from fasting:

1) Fasting Promotes Detoxification

Processed foods contain lots of additives. These additives may become toxins in the body. Some of them promote production of advanced glycation end products (AGEs). Most of these toxins are stored in fats. Fat is burnt during fasting, especially when it is prolonged. And the toxins are released. The liver, kidneys and other organs in the body are involved in detoxification.

2) Fasting Rests the Digestive System

During fasting, the digestive organs rest. The normal physiologic functions continue especially production of digestive secretions, but at reduced rates. This exercise helps to maintain balance of fluids in the body. Breakdown of food takes place at steady rates. Release of energy also follows a gradual pattern. Fasting however does not stop production of acids in the stomach. This is reason patients with peptic ulcer are advised to approach fasting with caution. Some experts believe they should not fast.

3) Fasting Resolves the Inflammatory Response

Some studies show that fasting promotes resolution of inflammatory diseases and allergies. Examples of such inflammatory diseases are rheumatoid arthritis, arthritis and skin diseases such as psoriasis. Some experts assert that fasting may promote healing of inflammatory bowel diseases such as ulcerative colitis.

4) Fasting Reduces Blood Sugar

Fasting increases breakdown of glucose so that the body can get energy. It reduces production of insulin. This rests the pancreas. Glucagon is produced to facilitate the breakdown of glucose. The outcome of fasting is a reduction in blood sugar.

5) Fasting Increases Fat Breakdown

The first response of the body to fasting is break down of glucose. When the store of glucose is exhausted, ketosis begins. This is break down of fats to release energy. The fats stored in kidney and muscles are broken down to release energy.

6) Fasting Corrects High Blood Pressure

Fasting is one of the non-drug methods of reducing blood pressure. It helps to reduce the risk of atherosclerosis. Atherosclerosis is clogging of arteries by fat particles. During fasting glucose and later, fat stores are used to produce energy. Metabolic rate is reduced during fasting. The fear-flight hormones such as adrenaline and noradrenaline are also reduced. This keeps the metabolic steady and within limits. The benefit is a reduction in blood pressure.

7) Fasting Promotes Weight Loss

Fasting promotes rapid weight loss. It reduces the store of fats in the body. However fasting is not a good weight loss strategy. Reducing fat and sugar intake, and increasing fruits and rest are better measures to achieve weight reduction.

8) Fasting Promotes Healthy Diet

It has been observed that fasting reduces craving for processed foods. It promotes desire for natural foods, especially water and fruits. This is one way fasting promote healthy lifestyle.

9) Fasting Boosts Immunity

When an individual is on balanced diet in between fasts, this can boost immunity. Elimination of toxins and reduction in fat store also helps the body. When individuals take fruits to break a fast, they increase the body's store of essential vitamins and minerals. Vitamins A and E are good antioxidants readily available in fruits. They help to boost immunity.

10) Fasting May Help to Overcome Addictions

Some authors show that fasting can help addicts reduce their cravings, for nicotine, alcohol, caffeine and other substance abuse. Although there are other regimens required to resolve addictions, fasting can play a role.

Ramadan Start Dates 2013

2013-07-09T11:54:00.000-04:00

Each year, there are sometimes confusions as to when to begin Ramadan. As a general rule of thumb, it is advisable for Muslims to follow their local mosques (masjids) (i.e., the mosque that they typically associate with and pray in).

Sheikh Yasir Qadhi advised this on his Facebook page recently: "Do not make the beginning and ending of the month an issue of ikhtilaf al-quloob (the differing of hearts), and leave it an issue of ikhtilaf al-furoo (trivial differences). In case you don't associate with a particular masjid, go with the majority of Muslims in your community".

That said, here are the start dates of Ramadan 2013 based on geographical regions.

Saudi-Arabia has announced that Shaaban of the Hijri year 1434 will be of 30 days because no moon was sighted for Ramadan on the evening of July 8th, 2013. Therefore, the first day of Ramadan in Saudi-Arabia and a majority of the gulf countries will be on July 10th, 2013.

North American Muslim organizations have announced that the first day of Ramadan will be on July 9th, 2013 in North America.

Ramadan Will Begin On July 9 2013

2013-07-09T11:36:00.004-04:00

A Message from the Fiqh Council of North America Re-Confirming Ramadan Dates

From: Dr. Muzammil H. Siddiqi

Assalam ‘alaikum wa rahmatullah.

The Fiqh Council of North America (FCNA) confirms that 1st Day of Ramadan 1434 is Tuesday, July 9, 2013.

The decision of FCNA is based on astronomical calculations. In United States, the new moon was born in California on Monday, July 8 at 12:16 a.m. and it is setting in California about 11 minutes after sunset. There is also a possibility of moon sighting in the Pacific Polynesian islands this evening.

On the basis of these facts, those who agree that astronomical calculations are an acceptable method of deterring the Islamic lunar months, including Ramadan and Shawwal, should not have any confusion because of the decision of some countries overseas.

In our publications and on our website www.fiqhcouncil.org we have fully explained why astronomical calculations are an acceptable method of determining the Islamic lunar months.

May Allah accept the fasting of all Muslims and bless us all in Ramadan and always.

Ameen

Source: http://www.isna.net/ramadan-will-begin-on-july-9-2013.html

Ramadan Mubarak Ramadan Kareem 2013

2013-07-09T11:29:00.002-04:00

Ramadan Mubarak Ramadan Kareem 2012

Ramadan 1434 (2013)

Dear Readers of The Ramadan Blog,

Ramadan Mubarak! Ramadan Kareem!

For many of us in the world, the first day of Ramadan is already underway, Tuesday, July 9, 2013.

In Asian countries, the first day of Ramadan will be on Wednesday, July 10 2013.

It is with Allah's great blessings that we have reached Ramadan, and have the opportunity to fulfill our religious and spiritual obligations.

Thank Allah for this great occasion, and take this month seriously.

There is no other month such as Ramadan.

Do not let it pass you by.

Laylatul Qadr: The Last Ten Nights of Ramadan

2012-08-16T12:09:00.002-04:00

Laylatul Qadr: Making Du'a in the last 10 nights of Ramadan

Hadith on Laylatul Qadr

Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) reported:

The Messenger of Allah (Sallallaahu 'alaihi wasallam) used to observe I`tikaf in the last ten days of Ramadan and say, "Seek Lailat-ul-Qadr (Night of Decree) in the odd nights out of the last ten nights of Ramadan.'' [Al-Bukhari]

This Hadith states that Laylatul Qadr can occur in any of the five odd nights - 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th and 29th - of the last ten nights of Ramadan. Its exact date has not been revealed for the reason that people keep themselves awake for prayer for a larger number of nights. Had its date been fixed, people would have kept awake for prayer only on that night.

"Whosoever stood up in front of Allah on the night of qadr with Iman and true conviction of attaining reward from Allah, in return, Allah will forgive all his previous sins." [Muslim]

"Whoever establishes the prayers on the night of Qadr out of sincere faith and hoping to attain Allah's rewards (not to show off) then all his past sins will be forgiven.’’[Al-Bukhari, Vol.1, Bk.2, No. 34]

Quran on Laylatul Qadr

Surah Al-Qadr
In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

We have indeed revealed this (Message) in the night of Power: (1) And what will explain to thee what the Night of Power is? (2) The Night of Power is better than a thousand Months. (3) Therein come down the angels and the Spirit by Allah's permission, on every errand: (4) Peace!... This until the rise of Morn! (5) [Holy Quran, Surah 97]

How to Make Dua to Allah During the Last 10 Nights of Laylatul Qadr

Sheikh Yasir Qadhi gives a brilliant lecture on the benefits of making dua to Allah (especially during the last 10 days) and what is the proper etiquette of making dua.

Dhikr During Ramadan

2012-07-26T12:09:00.000-04:00

Remembering God During Ramadan - The Importance of Dhikr

The Quran tells us that believers will find rest in the remembrance of God. Whenever we feel lost or down, the antidote to such negative feelings is to remember God.

“Those who believe, and whose hearts find their rest in the remembrance of God – for, verily, in the remembrance of God [men's] hearts do find their rest.”

Qurʾān 13:28

During Ramadan, we are encouraged to increase our remembrance of God. One of the simplest way to remember God, is to consciously remember Him through our tongue and our minds.

What is Dhikr?

It is remembering God through tasbih, glorifying; takbir, exalting; tahmid, praising. Dhikr can be done silently in one's heart, or loudly. Both are accepted and recommended. Dhikr essentially is an act that involves recitation of specific verses from the Quran, or the 99 Names of Allah. The word dhikr is commonly translated as "remembrance" or "invocation".

Mention of Dhikr in the Qur'an
Allah said in Surat al-Baqara, 152: "Remember Me and I will remember you." [2:152]

Allah said in Surah Ali Imran, 41, "...and remember your Lord much and glorify Him in the evening and in the early morning." And again, 191, "Those who remember Allah while standing, sitting, and lying on their sides..." [3:41, 191]

He said in Surat al-Rad, 28, "Those who believe, and whose hearts find their rest in the remembrance of Allah--for, verily, in the remembrance of Allah hearts do find their rest." [13:28]

And He said in Surat al-Ah zab, 35, "...and men who remember Allah much and women who remember Him..."

And again, 41,42, "O you who believe! Remember Allah with much remembrance; and glorify Him morning and evening." [33: 35, 41-42]

There are many, many other verses of Qur'an mentioning dhikr.

Imam Nawawi said in his book, "Futahat ar-Rabbani ^cala-l- Adhkar an-Nawawiyya," vol. 1, p. 106-109, "All scholars of Islam have agreed on the acceptance and permissibility of Dhikr by heart and by tongue, for the adult men and women, for children, for the one who has ablution, and for the one without ablution; even for the woman during her menses. Moreover, dhikr is allowed by all scholars in the form of tasbih, tahmid, takbir and praising and praying for the Prophet (s)."

Dhikr polishes the heart and is the source of the Divine breath that revives the dead spirits by filling them with the Blessings of Allah, decorating them with His Attributess, and bringing them from a state of heedlessness to the state of complete wakefulness. If we keep busy with Dhikr, happiness and peace will be granted to us. Dhikr is the key to happiness, the key to joy, and the key to Divine Love.

Mention of Dhikr in the Sunnah

According to Bukhari, Abu Musa al-Ash^cari related that the Prophet (s) said, "The difference between the one who makes dhikr and the one who doesn't make dhikr is like the difference between the living and the dead."

Tirmidhi narrated from Anas (r) that the Prophet (s) said, "If you pass by the Paradises of Heavens stay there." They asked, "Ya Rasul-Allah, what are the Paradises of Heavens?" He said, "The associations of Dhikr!"

Bukhari narrated in his book from Abu Huraira that the Prophet (s) said, "Allah, Almighty and Exalted, has angels who seek the people of Dhikr. If they find the people of Dhikr they encompass them until they reach the first heaven. And Allah asks his angels, 'What are my servants doing?' The angels say, 'O Allah, they are praising You and glorifying You and they are making Dhikr.' Allah says, 'Did they see Me?' The angels answer, 'No, they didn't see You.' Then Allah asks, 'How would it be if they were to see Me?' The angels reply, 'O Allah, if they were to see You, they would be making more praise of You and more glorification of You and more Dhikr of You.' And Allah asks 'What are they asking for?' The angels say, 'They are asking for Your Paradise.' Allah asks, 'Did they see My Paradise?' The angels answer, 'No, Our Lord.' Allah continues, 'How would it be if they saw My Paradise?' The angels reply, 'They would be more attracted and more eager to reach it.' Then Allah asks them, 'Of what are they afraid?' And the angels say, 'They are afraid of hellfire.' and Allah asks, 'How would it be if they saw my Hellfire?' and they reply, 'They would be running more and more away from it and asking more and more protection from it.' Then Allah said,' I am making you all My witnesses: that I am forgiving them of all their sins.' Then one angel asked, 'O our Lord, there is among these people one who is not from them, he came only to ask for something from one of them.' Allah said, 'Those are my beloved ones who are making My Dhikr. Anyone who comes into their circle will be forgiven, and I am forgiving him.'"

In Bukhari and Muslim it is narrated from Abu Huraira that the Prophet (s) said, "As my servant thinks about Me so will I be for him. I am with him if he will remember Me. If he calls on Me in himself I will call him in Myself, and if he calls on Me in a group of people, I mention him in a better group in My presence. If he approaches Me one handspan, I will approach him one arm's length; if he approaches Me one arm's length, I will approach him by a cubit; if he comes to Me walking, I will come to him running."

Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah narrated on the authority of Abi Darda that the Prophet said, "Do you want me to tell you of your best deeds, and the most honored and praised and sanctified to Your Lord, and the highest in its reward; better than spending gold and better than meeting your enemy and cutting their necks in the jihad?" They said, "Yes, Ya Rasulallah." He said, "Dhikrullah."

The Prophet (s) said, "Everything has its polish and the polish of hearts is dhikrullah."
Mu'adh bin Jabal (r) said, "Nothing saves you from Allah's punishment except Dhikrullah."

Source: http://www.naqshbandi.org/topics/dhikr.htm

Ramadan Healthy Eating: Stay Hydrated!

2012-07-24T12:21:00.001-04:00

Importance of Staying Hydrated During Ramadan

Did you know that up to 60% of the human body is water, our brain is composed of 70% water, and the lungs are nearly 90% water?

Our lean muscle tissue contains about 75% water by weight, as is the brain, and body fat contains 10% water and bone has 22% water!

About 83% of our blood is water, which helps digest our food, transport waste, and control body temperature.

Each day humans has to replace 2.4 litres of water, some through drinking water and the rest taken by the body from the foods we eat.

So during Ramadan, it is crucial that we hydrate ourselves properly. It is advisable to avoid caffeinated drinks during Iftar as the caffeine acts as a diuretic, which stimulates urination. This prevents the water from being properly taken by our cells.

It is also advisable to avoid sugary drinks such as soft drinks. The sugar in the drinks may give us a boost of glucose into our bloodstream so we may feel energetic as the glucose is taken up by our cells. But that rush of energy will be short-lived, and you would be looking to grab another sugary drink to keep up your energy levels for the nightly prayers and so on. If you continue on this pattern, you can accumulate an excess of glucose in your bloodstrea,m, which your cells cannot utilize, and which gets stored as fat instead!

Therefore, it is advisable to stick to plain old water to nourish your body. In your waking hours between iftar to imsak, be sure to sip water and re-hydrate your body. Getting a minimum of 2 litres of water during this period would be good for your body.

Ramadan Quran Tafsir: Surah Al Baqarah

2012-07-24T11:59:00.001-04:00

What does the Quran Say About the Differences Between Believers, Hypocrites and Disbelievers?

The following is a short but excellent tasfir (commentary) by Sheikh Yasir Qadhi on the definition and explanations of what constitutes as believers, hypocrites and disbelievers as in the Quran Surah Al Baqarah. Allah has categorized mankind in these main three groups.

The video below mentions some of the following points:

Believers will benefit the most from the Quran. Believers have belief (or faith) in that which is even unknown (cannot be proven). Believer is the one whose body, heart, mind and soul believes in Allah and the Quran.
The disbeliever have already decided that they will not believe. The Quran says there is a curtain over their eyes. The disbeliever can hear and see, but they have chosen to cover up their eyes and ears. If they wanted to, they could see and hear the Truth of Islam, but they choose not to.
The first category of hypocrites are those who pretend to have faith, but secretly their actions are contrary to what believers do. The hypocrite is given the ability to see light (the truth and guidance of Islam) so he is able to know and appreciate Islam. He is able to understand Islam. The light of Islam remains, but the hypocrite chooses to ignore the light and does not act on it. So Allah takes away the light from the hypocrite and makes him deaf, dumb and blind.
Unlike the disbeliever, the hypocrites has lost his faculties of seeing and hearing because he has purposely chosen to ignore the light of Islam. Such a hypocrite is a pure hypocrite.
There is a second category of hypocrites. These hypocrites sometimes see the truth and they will act on it, but then there will be a period of darkness when they do not see or act on truth. So essentially, they go between periods of faith - in faith and out of faith.
This second category of hypocrites also lives in fear, especially of death. This is unlike the believer who also has fears, of death too, but a believer also has hope and optimism for what follows after death.
Pure hypocrites are not common in this day and age because Islam is politically weak (it is difficult to be a Muslim in modern America).
But the second category of hypocrites can be common - and this is something we should be wary of so that we do not fall into this category.

Ramadan Reminder - Al-Baqarah: Believers, Hypocrites & Disbelievers by Yasir Qadhi

Avoid Weight Gain During Ramadan

2012-07-22T11:59:00.002-04:00

Avoid This Ramadan Pitfall: Weight Gain During Ramadan

Fasting Muslims know that putting on excess weight is one of the unwanted pitfalls of Ramadan. The long hours without food or drink lowers the body's metabolism; the spiritual obligations do not end with the fast, but include special night prayers called the taraweeh, as well as doing acts to be more connected to God, such as making du'a (supplications). All of these activities mean that many Muslims end up sleeping less hours than they normally do. This also has the effect of lowering one's metabolism.

So it is critical that one does not over-eat, gorge, or feast during iftar (the breaking of the fast). Doing so would cause weight gain.

Here are some useful tips on how to avoid weight gain during Ramadan.

Balanced diet

Those observing the fast should have at least two meals a day, the pre-dawn meal (Suhoor) and a meal at dusk (Iftar).

Food intake should be simple and not differ too much from your normal diet. It should contain foods from all the major food groups:

fruit and vegetables
bread, other cereals and potatoes
meat, fish and alternatives
milk and dairy foods
foods containing fat and sugar

Complex carbohydrates are foods that help release energy slowly during the long hours of fasting. They are found in foods such as barley, wheat, oats, millet, semolina, beans, lentils, wholemeal flour and basmati rice.

Fibre-rich foods are also digested slowly and include bran, cereals, whole wheat, grains and seeds, potatoes with the skin, vegetables such as green beans, and almost all fruit, including apricots, prunes and figs.

Foods to avoid are the heavily processed, fast-burning foods that contain refined carbohydrates (sugar and white flour), as well as fatty food (for example cakes, biscuits, chocolates and sweets, such as Indian mithai).

It's also worth avoiding caffeine-based drinks such as tea, coffee and cola. Caffeine is a diuretic and stimulates faster water loss through urination.

Wholesome foods

Suhoor, the pre-dawn meal, should be a wholesome, moderate meal that is filling and provides enough energy for many hours. Suhoor should be light and include slow digesting food like pitta bread, salad, cereal (especially oats) or toast so that you have a constant release of energy.

It's customary for Muslims to break the fast (Iftar) with some dates, in accordance with the Prophetic traditions. Dates will provide a burst of energy. Fruit juices will also have a similar, revitalising effect.

Start by drinking plenty of water, which helps rehydration and reduces the chances of overindulgence. Avoid the rich, special dishes that traditionally celebrate the fast.

Foods to avoid

deep-fried foods, for example pakoras, samosas and fried dumplings
high-sugar and high-fat foods, including sweets such as gulab jamun, rasgulla and balushahi
high-fat cooked foods, for example, parathas, oily curries and greasy pastries

Healthy alternatives

baked samosas and boiled dumplings
chapattis made without oil, baked or grilled meat and chicken. Make pastry at home and use a single layer
milk-based sweets and puddings such as rasmalai and barfee

Cooking methods to avoid

deep frying
frying
excessive use of oil

Healthy cooking methods

shallow frying (usually there is little difference in taste)
grilling or baking is healthier and helps retain the taste and original flavour of the food, especially with chicken and fish

Healthy Eating During Ramadan Tips

Tasting Food While Cooking During Ramadan

2012-07-22T04:14:00.004-04:00

Ramadan Question: Tasting Food When Cooking While Fasting

Many Muslims ask this question, particularly those who are tasked with preparing food for one's entire fasting family. This is true particularly for the women - mothers, sisters, daughters - who frequently cook meals for the breaking of the fast, as well as meals taken before the start of the fast.

One of the problems faced when cooking while you are fasting is that unless you taste the food, it can be hard to gauge if you have added enough salt, pepper, or not too much spices or chilli that might require diluting the dish somewhat.

Many women who cook while fasting try not to taste the food because they are so worried that their fast might be broken if their tongue touches the food. As such , many opt to cook without tasting.

However, it has been ruled by Islamic scholars that tasting food (as opposed to eating food) is allowed so long there is a necessity for it. And the food should only be put on the tip of the tongue. The food should not enter the throat, nor should it be swallowed, and after tasting the food should be spat out.

Of course, the intention behind this act of tasting food when cooking while doing the fast is primary - it goes without saying that this should not be done just because one is hungry!

Hadith Bukhari, Chapter 25 states:
Ibn Abbas said, "There is no harm in tasting the food of the pots or other meals."

Is a Person Cooking Allowed to Taste Food While Fasting?

By Dr. Zakir Naik

Dua During Ramadan Highly Recommended

2012-07-21T11:47:00.000-04:00

Making Du'a During Ramadan is Highly Recommended for the Following Reasons:

Ramadan is month full of many blessings, thus the du'a of Ramadan is a blessed one. This can be inferred from the Prophet (SAW) saying: 'When Ramadan comes, the Doors of Mercy (another narration says Paradise) are opened, and the doors of Hell are closed, and the Shaitans are locked up' Thus, it is clear that du'a during Ramadan has a greater chance of being accepted, as the Gates of Paradise and Mercy are opened. [Sahih al-Bukhari #1899, Muslim #1079 and others]

The Messenger of Allah (SAW) said; Three supplications will not be rejected (by Allah (SWT)), the supplication of the parent for his child, the supplication of the one who is fasting, and the supplication of the traveler. [al-Bayhaqi, at-Tirmidhi - Sahih]

The prophet (SAW) declared, 'Three men whose dua is never rejected (by Allah) are: when a fasting person breaks fast (in another narration, the fasting person until he breaks his fast), the just ruler and the one who is oppressed.'[Ahmad, at-Tirmidhi - Hasan]

Specific Times To Make a Du'a During Ramadan That May Be Beneficial:

Late at night
When people are sleeping and busy with worldly pleasures Allah (SWT) gives the believers an opportunity, or an answer hour if they can fight sleep and invoke Allah (SWT) for whatever they need. The Prophet (SAW) said: 'There is at night an hour, no Muslim happens to be asking Allah any matter of this world or the Hereafter, except that he will be given it, and this (occurs) every night.'
[Muslim #757]

An Hour On Friday
Narrated Abu Hurairah (RA): Allah’s Messenger (SAW) talked about Friday and said: 'There is an hour on Friday and if a Muslim gets it while offering Salat (prayer) and asks something from Allah (SWT), then Allah (SWT) will definitely meet his demand.' And he (the Prophet (SAW) pointed out the shortness of that particular time with his hands.[Sahih al-Bukhari] Some have said that this hour is from the time the Imam (prayer’s leader) enters the mosque on Friday’s prayer until the prayer is over (ie between the two khutbahs), whereas others have said that it is the last hour of the day (ie after the Asr prayer until the Maghrib prayer).

While Prostrating
Abu Hurairah (RA) narrated that Allah’s Messenger (SAW), said: 'The nearest a slave can be to his Lord is when he is prostrating, so invoke (supplicate) Allah (SWT) much in it. [Muslim, abu Dawud, an-Nasa'i and others, Sahih al-Jami #1175] When a Muslim is in his Salat (prayer) he is facing Allah (SWT) and when he prostrates he is the nearest he can be to Allah (SWT) so it is best to invoke Allah (SWT) at this time. It is said that while in prostration, one should not ask for worldy needs (ie a nice car, a new job, etc), but for the Hereafter.

At The End Of The Obligatory Salat:
Narrated Abu Omamah (RA): that Allah’s Messenger (SAW) was asked, O Messenger of Allah, which supplication is heard (by Allah (SWT), he said the end of the night and at the end of the obligatory Salat (prayer) [at-Tirmidhi]. This time is after saying 'At-tahyat' , and before making Tasleem (finishing prayer)

The Night Of 'Qadr' (Decree)
This night is the greatest night of the year. This is the night which the almighty Allah (SWT) said about it, "The night of Al-Qadar (Decree) is better than a thousand months." [Surah al-Qadr, 97: 3] The Night of Decree is one of the odd nights of the last ten nights of the blessed month of Ramadan. The angels descend down to the earth, and the earth is overwhelmed with peace and serenity until the break of dawn and when he doors of Paradise are opened, the worshipper is encouraged to turn to Allah to ask for his needs for this world and the Hereafter.

While reciting Surah al-Fatihah

More Articles on Ramadan Dua

Ramadan Dua Accepted

Ramadan Dua From Quran

How to Make Dua to Allah Properly

Ramadan Dua for First 10 Days

Ramadan Dua for Second 10 Days

Ramadan Dua for Third 10 Days

How to Make Dua to Allah Properly

2012-07-20T11:59:00.001-04:00

The Etiquette of Making Dua to Allah

The following is an excellent lecture on how to make dua to Allah properly. In this lecture by Sheikh Yasir Qadhi from the Memphis Islamic Center in the United States, he notes that the Quran states that Allah will answer those who makes dua to Him.

“Your Lord has said, 'Make du'ā' to Me. I am going to be the One who will respond to you. Those who are too arrogant to worship Me are going to enter the fire of hell humiliated.'” [Quran, 40:60]

Sheikh Qadhi explains that we are guaranteed a response from Allah, if we know how to make dua to Him properly. This lecture is essential reading!

Lecture by Shaykh Yasir Qadhi | Transcribed by Sameera

This lecture is brought to you by the Memphis Islamic Center (MIC). For more information about MIC, please visit www.memphisislamiccenter.org

[The following is the audio and transcript of Shaykh Yasir Qadhi's lecture "Surah Ghaafir: External Etiquettes of Du'a." The transcript includes slight modifications for the sake of readability and clarity.]

Sūrah Ghāfir has a very powerful verse in it, which is very pertinent to tonight. Allāh says:

“Your Lord has said, 'Make du'ā' to Me. I am going to be the One who will respond to you. Those who are too arrogant to worship Me are going to enter the fire of hell humiliated.'” [40:60]

“Your Lord has said [this is a decree from Allāh], 'Make du'ā' to Me.'” It is a simple conditional clause that if you do this, I am going to do that. “If you make du'ā' to Me, I will respond to you.” Our scholars have said that this is one of the most optimistic verses in the Qur'an because Allāh has said if you do A, He will do B. What is A? “Make du'ā' to Me.” What is B? “I will respond to you.”

What this basically means – this is something wallāhi we don't think too much about – if we do a du'ā' properly, there is a guaranteed response. Allāh has decreed this. “Your Lord has said” is a decree. “Make du'ā' to Me; I am going to respond to you. Those who are too arrogant to worship Me…” Notice that du'ā' has been equated with the entire concept of worship. Our Prophet Muhammad said, “Du'ā' is worship.” In another hadith, he said, “Du'ā' is the backbone / spinal cord of worship.” Du'ā' is the kernel or the gist of worship.

Therefore, on these nights, one of the greatest acts of worship is to make du'ā', and your Lord is saying, “If you make du'ā' to Me, I will respond to you.” Inshā'Allāh in today's khātirah and maybe even a few more days, we are going to summarize some of the things we should know about du'ā'.

First and foremost, some of the external etiquettes of du'ā'.

1. Of the external etiquettes of du'ā' is that a du'ā' is accepted more if a person is in a state of purity.

Once the Prophet needed to make du'ā', so he went into his chambers and did wuḍū' and then he came out and started doing du'ā'. It is not a condition – nobody ever says it is a condition – it is mustaḥab. It is encouraged to be in a state of wuḍū'.

2. When you want to make a du'ā', you should face the qiblah.

There are many narrations where the Prophet wanted to make du'ā' and he would turn to face the qiblah. Once again, this is not a requirement. You can make du'ā' in a state of janābah. You can make du'ā' lying down on the ground looking up at the sky or on your bed. All of this is allowed, but we are talking about the best. The best thing to do is be in the state of wuḍū' and then face the qiblah.

3. The third etiquette of du'ā' is to raise your hands.

There are three types of raising of the hands or three types of gestures, each one of which has a particular time to do it.

Sometimes the Prophet would do the shahādah with his finger. This is especially done when you make a du'ā' of ḥamd (praise) [such as]: Alḥamdulillāh, la ilaha ilAllāh, subḥānAllāh.

There are two types of du'ā': a du'ā' of thanā' / ḥamd and masannah. In a du'ā' of ḥamd, you praise Allāh, and in a du'ā' of masannah, you ask Allāh. Generally when you make du'ā' of ḥamd or thanā', it is good to raise your finger up for the shahādah. This is good to do even if you are saying subḥānAllāh or alḥamdulillāh. This is something the Prophet would do. Of course we are talking about outside of ṣalāh. Inside of ṣalāh, there is only one location where you raise the finger. Outside of ṣalāh, if you say subḥānAllāh, alḥamdulillāh, la ilāha illa Allāh, it is permissible and good to simply show this with your finger.

The second type of gesture is the common one we all know, which is with your two hands. There is a common mistake that a lot of people make. The Prophet said, “When you make du'ā' to Allāh, ask from the palms of your hand and not from the backs of your hand.” This is a common mistake that a lot of people do that when they make du'ā', they go like this [hand gesture – holding hands vertically with palms in front of the face]. This is a mistake because when you do this, you are asking Allāh with the back of your hand, which is not appropriate. The palms are facing you, and this is not appropriate and is a mistake.

You literally show your poverty to Allāh. How? You are a beggar. Musa says, “Rabbi inni lima anzalta ilayya min khayrin faqīr. (O Allāh, I am a faqīr in front of You. I need anything You can give me.)” [28:24] You show your faqr. How do you you're your faqr, complete poverty? Flat hands. Or you can curl a little bit, but the palms need to be facing up and not [facing] you. The palms are facing upward just like the beggar when he comes in front of your car and is begging for food or something. This is showing poverty. And to Allāh belongs the better example. When we beg Allāh, we show our poverty. Like the Prophet said, “Ask Allāh with the palms of your hands and not with the backs of your hands.”

It is permissible to put them together, and it is permissible to put them a little bit apart. Both are narrated and there is not a problem about the distance between the two. The main point is that you are showing poverty in front of Allāh. Generally the Prophet would put them around the chest level. This is the second gesture.

There is a third gesture that is only narrated a few times in the sīrah. This shows that this is a gesture in extreme circumstances. One of the times that this gesture is narrated is right before the battle of Badr when the Prophet was invoking Allāh, crying and begging. He said, “O Allāh, if you allow them to beat us, then nobody will ever be a Muslim until the Day of Judgment. If you allow them to beat us, You will not be worshipped on earth.” He is begging and pleading for the survival of Islam. This is the battle: on the one side is Abu Jahl and on the other side is the Prophet Muhammad ; on one side is Jibrīl coming to help and on the other is Shaytan literally telling them what to do. This is literally the battle between good and evil. He is begging and praying to Allāh . How did he do it? This is only in extreme circumstances. He raised his hands all the way up to the heavens – not combined but split up – expecting Allāh's Mercy to come down.

When he raised his hands all the way up – in those days they would wear what we call the iḥrām, this is common cloth – his iḥrām fell off, so he was not wearing anything from the top. He is begging and pleading Allāh in the burning sun for many minutes until Abu Bakr took up the shawl and covered him and said, “Ya Rasūlullāh, enough! Your Lord has heard you! How can He not respond to your du'ā'?” He put his hands down.

This type of gesture is obviously not done in the ṣalāh – it is done outside of ṣalāh. This type of gesture is done at times at times of extreme desperation and when you really need something. The Prophet would raise his hands all the way up to the heavens.

It is not a requirement that you put your hands up when you make du'ā'. You may make du'ā' with your hands down. The Prophet sometimes did this, but, again, we are talking about perfection and how you have more chance to make your du'ā' accepted.

4. Another etiquette of du'ā' is that the first thing that should come from your mouth should be praise to Allāh .

The Prophet was once walking and a man raised his hands and began asking, “O Allāh, I want this. O Allāh, I want that.” The Prophet said, “This man has been hasty.” They said, “How, ya Rasūlullāh?” He said, “When one of you raises his hands to make du'ā', let him being by praising Allāh .” SubḥānAllāh, when we ask somebody for something, we don't just go knock on their door and say, “Hey, I want some money.” We don't even do this amongst ourselves. You begin by thana' and ḥamd and by talking about your relationship. Again, when we give these examples, nobody should think we are comparing our relationship with Allāh, but just to drive the point home, this is even how we conduct our affairs amongst ourselves, so how about even more so with Allāh ? So when we need something – and we always need something from Allāh – we begin by praising Allāh and by talking about our relationship with Him: “Ya Allāh, You are our Creator. I am your 'abd. Ya Allāh, You are Al-Rahman and Al-Raḥīm. Ya Allāh,…” We begin by praising Allāh, giving our thana', and talking about ourselves (“I am Your 'abd, faqīr, miskīn. I need everything from You.” This is the introduction. We begin our du'ā's by first praising Allāh .

5. Another etiquette of du'ā' is that we should be very careful about the content of our du'ā's.

A lot of people unfortunately miss the plot and ask for things that might be good but are not essential or not as important as what they are asking about. You can tell – and you can quote me on this and think about this – a person's īmān by what du'ā' he is making. You can tell a person's īmān by what du'ā' he is making. If the only thing you are asking about is “Ya Allāh, give me some money. Ya Allāh, give me a good job. Ya Allāh, give me this, give me that.” Where is the ākhirah? Where is Jannah? Where is the time in the grave? How about when Munkar and Nakir come? What are your priorities? What are you thinking about?

Nobody is saying to not ask for a good life. We want a good life. But more important than that is hidāyah and ākhirah and Jannah and maghfirah, especially in these [last] ten nights.

My dear brothers and sisters, if Allāh deprives you of everything of this world but gives you the next, wallāhi when you get there, you won't even think about this world. You won't even remember this world and it will be gone completely. If the opposite is true, then a'ūdhu billāh.

When you do ask for this world, it is of the adab that you ask in generalities and not specifics. You might think something is good. Suppose you are doing all of this and suppose you are asking for maghfirah and hidāyah and now also want a particular job you have applied for, then of course you ask Allāh for the job because only Allāh can give it to you, but don't ask “O Allāh, I want this job. Give it to me,” because how do you know if this job is in your best interests? Put a phrase or condition there. “O Allāh, give me this job if there is good in my dīn and dunya in this job.” Leave it to Allāh's condition.

This condition is never put for things in the akhirah. You don't say, “O Allāh, forgive me if it is good for me.” Forgiveness is good for you! You don't say, “O Allāh, save me from the fire if it is healthy for me.” It is healthy for you! You don't put these conditions for religious du'ā's (hidāyah, maghfirah). For these, you say, “O Allāh, I need it!” Our father Adam said, “Rabbana ẓalamna anfusana wa i'llam taghfir lana wa tarḥamna lanakūnanna min al-khāsirīn. (O Allāh, if you don't forgive me, I'm gone and have no hope.)” Those [religious] du'ā's have no conditions.

Du'ā's of this world have adab because Allāh loves you more than you can imagine, and Allāh knows what is better for you and you don't know. It is possible you might want something but it is not for your good, so you say, “O Allāh, give me this job, give me this job, give me this job.” When you get it, it turns out that the first job was much better for you but you got what you asked for, so you put a condition there.

In the du'ā' of istikhārah, there is a phrase there “O Allāh give this for me if it is good for my dīn and my dunya in this world and the next.” Any worldly thing that you ask, you put this condition.

You also should ask for generalities. Scholars say that asking for too specifics is problematic. Look at the du'ā's of the Qur'an. “Rabbana ātina fi dunya ḥasanah wa fi'l ākhirati ḥasanah wa qina 'ādhab al-nār.” If you go to extremes, you do something that is called takalluf fi'l-du'ā'. Once there was a ṣaḥābi making a du'ā' who said, “O Allāh, I want the white palace that is on the right hand side of the gate of Jannah as soon as I enter it with the river running right there.” He has this imagination and that he wants this. Another ṣaḥābi said, “Ask Allāh for Jannah. When you get it, you will get everything you want in it.” This is takalluf and going too far. It is good to ask in generalities.

6. Also of the etiquettes of du'ā' is that you try to memorize the du'ā's of the Qur'an and Sunnah.

These are the du'ā's that have the most chance of being accepted. There is a book I encourage everybody to possess and memorize and read from all the time called Hisnul Muslim (The Fortress of the Believer). It is one of the best books on du'ā' written. It is a simple book which you will find written in Arabic and English and every language spoken by the Muslim ummah. It is by Dr. Said al-Qahtani. In it he has compiled the most famous du'ā's of the Qur'an and Sunnah according to topics: what to say when you see something positive, what to say when you see something scary, what to say at the beginning of the month, what to say after ṣalāt'l-fajr. Keep this book in your pocket and keep on looking at it and after a few weeks insha'Allāh you will memorize most, if not all, of the du'ā's in there.

We already mentioned the du'ā' of laylat'l-qadr: Allāhumma innaka 'afuwwun tuḥibbu'l-'afuw fā'fu 'anna. Another du'ā' I want to remind myself and all of you: Al-'Abbās, the uncle of the Prophet , came to the Prophet and said, “Ya Rasūlullāh, teach me a du'ā'.” The Prophet said, “O my uncle, say: Allāhumma inni asaluka al-'āfiyah (O Allāh, I ask you for 'āfiyah).” What is 'āfiyah? 'Āfiyah means “to save me from any afflictions. To be healthy, you are in 'āfiyah. To have enough money to live, you are in 'āfiyah. To have your children protected, you are in 'āfiyah. And if you are forgiven and not punished, you are in 'āfiyah. 'Āfiyah means “O Allāh, protect me from any pain and suffering.” This includes dunya and akhirah. Al-'Abbās thought about this for a while, and then he came back after a few days and said (paraphrased), “Ya Rasūlullāh, this du'ā' seems a little short. I want something big.” The Prophet said, “My dear uncle, ask Allāh for 'āfiyah for wallāhi, you cannot be given anything better than 'āfiyah.” It is a simple du'ā'. Sincerely mean what you say. “O Allāh, I ask You to be saved from any distress, grief, hardship, harm. Don't test me.” All of this is included in “Allāhumma inni asaluka al-'āfiyah”.

Memorize these simple du'ā's, and they should become a part and parcel of your daily routine.

7. You should conclude your du'ā's with the ṣalāt and salām upon the Prophet Muhammad .

There is a ḥadīth in Ibn Mājah that the Prophet said, “A du'ā' will be suspended between the heaven and earth (a du'ā' will not go up) unless it has a finish (khatm) with my ṣalāt and salām.” So you begin by praising Allāh and then you have the content and then you finish by sending ṣalāt and salām upon the Prophet .

These are the external conditions of du'ā', and inshā'Allāh later we'll talk about the spiritual conditions of du'ā'.

Ramadan 2012 During Summer in USA

2012-07-20T10:37:00.001-04:00

Muslims Will be Tested During the Hot Summer Days of Ramadan

Ramadan 1433 (2012)

For many Muslims in the US, this year's Ramadan falls during the hot summer days. During Ramadan, Muslims fast between sunrise and sunset, neither eating nor drinking.

In the US, the days are long during the summer. Temperatures (heat and humidity) can soar during summer as well. For instance, in Boston, MA on the east coast of the US, the imsak time (the time to start the fast) will range from 3.49 am on the first day of Ramadan to 4.31 am on the last day of Ramadan. And the iftar time (the time to end the fast) will range from 8.16 pm on the first day of Ramadan to 7.41 pm on the last day of Ramadan.

The hours of fast are longer than in previous years. For examples, in Minnesota the daily Ramadan fast will be about 16 to 17 hours long. And religious and spiritual obligations do not end with simply abstaining from food and drink during the day. In the night, there are prayers too. So the hours of rest will be reduced during this Ramadan period.

Muslims fasting in the US will have to manage the heat, the long hours, and reduced sleep, all while maintaining their religious and spiritual obligations.

Ramadan Mubarak Ramadan Kareem 2012

2012-07-20T09:52:00.002-04:00

Ramadan 1433 (2012)

Dear Readers of The Ramadan Blog,

Ramadan Mubarak! Ramadan Kareem! For many of us in the world, the first day of Ramadan is already underway. In Asian countries, the first day of Ramadan will be on Saturday, July 21 2012.

It is with Allah's great blessings that we have reached Ramadan, and have the opportunity to fulfill our religious and spiritual obligations. Thank Allah for this great occasion, and take this month seriously. There is no other month such as Ramadan. Do not let it pass you by.

Imam Suhaib Webb from the Islamic Society of Boston shares the following words of wisdom and advice on how have a successful Ramadan.

The Prophet (sa) said that this month is one of the “pillars” of our faith. Its goal is piety and its means is to increase good works at all levels - the refinement of the soul and good character and increasing in acts of worship. In order to have a successful Ramadan, it is encouraged to focus on the following:

1. Repentance - The Prophet (sa) said, “A person who repents sincerely is like a person who has no sins.” Starting the month with a clean heart and record is one of the best ways to energize your relationship with Allah.

2. Establishing the individual obligations (Fard al-‘Ayn). A person who fasts and fails to establish the individual obligations, such as prayer, does not understand the purpose of fasting.

3. Increase in voluntary acts of goodness such as charity, community service - volunteering at a local masjid, supplications, prayers and God’s remembrance.

4. Focus on making this the month of Qur’an. It is encouraged to read as much Qur’an as possible. This includes listening to it on the way to work, during the day at home, or on your computer or phone on the train.

5. Increase the din, reduce the dunya. Meaning: focus your talks, chats, tweets and Facebook posts on the Hereafter, reducing your conversations about things of no benefit in the Hereafter.

6. Make this a month for your family. Strive to be home for Iftar after work. Studies show that family meals act as major influences in keeping families healthy and strong.

7. Forgive those who have wronged you and hold nothing in your heart towards others. ‘Abdullah bin Mas’ood said, “Everyone is forgiven in Ramadan, except those who have hatred in their hearts towards their brethren.”

8. Be a constant source of good wherever you are. Whether waiting in the line for food, driving to work, at home with your kids, or preparing for prayers, keep the light of goodness on all the time. The Prophet (sa) said, “Best person is the one who is best to others.”

9. Spend time with your family or friends. Meaning: parents should worship Allah together by completing a reading of the Qur’an together (with their children if possible). And roommates or friends should try to complete one together as well. Praying in the night together is commendable as is remembering God in gatherings - driving in the car or at home.

Ramadan 2012: When Does Ramadan Begin in 2012?

2012-07-14T10:56:00.001-04:00

Ramadan 1433 USA: When Does Ramadan Begin in 2012?

"O you who believe, fasting is prescribed to you as it was prescribed to those before you, that you may (learn) self-restraint." Qur’an 2: 183

It is estimated that the first day of Ramadan in North America will be on Friday, July 20, 2012 and Eid al-Fitr on Sunday, August 19, 2012, insha’Allah.

Please refer to the annoucement by the Islamic Society of North America (ISNA) below.

------------------------------------------------------------

The Fiqh Council of North America recognizes astronomical calculation as an acceptable Shar’i method for determining the beginning of lunar months including the months of Ramadan and Shawwal. FCNA uses Makkah al-Mukarrama as a conventional point and takes the position that the conjunction must take place before sunset in Makkah and moon must set after sunset in Makkah.

On the basis of this method the dates of Ramadan and Eid al-Fitr for the year 1433 AH are established as follows:

1st of Ramadan will be on Friday, July 20, 2012

1st of Shawwal will be on Sunday, August 19, 2012
Ramadan 1433 AH:

The Astronomical New Moon is on July 19, 2011 (Thursday) at 4:24 Universal Time (7:24 a.m. Makkah time). Sunset at Makkah on July 19 is at 7:05 p.m., while moonset is at 7:11 p.m. Moon is born before sunset in Makkah and moonset is after sunset. Therefore first day of Ramadan is Friday, July 20, insha'Allah. First Tarawih prayer will be on Thursday night.

Eid al-Fitr 1433 AH:

The Astronomical New Moon is on August 17, 2011 (Friday) at 15:54 Universal Time (6:54 p.m. Makkah time). On Friday, August 17, sunset at Makkah is 6:49 p.m. and moonset is 6:30 p.m. Moon is born after sunset in Makkah and moon sets before sunset. On Saturday, August 18, sunset at Makkah is 6:49 p.m. and moonset is at 7:11 p.m. Moon is born 24 hours before sunset, while moonset is after sunset. Therefore, first day of Shawwal, i.e., Eid al-Fitr is Sunday, August 19, insha'Allah.

May Allah (swt) keep us on the right path, and accept our fasting and prayers. Ameen. For more detailed information, please visit: www.fiqhcouncil.org or www.moonsighting.com

Sincerely,

Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi

Chairman, Fiqh Council of North America

Risala: The Life Story of Prophet Muhammad

2011-09-29T21:47:00.003-04:00

Dear Readers,

Assalamu'alaikum. We hope all of you had a good and fruitful Ramadan this year, and a wonderful Eid.

Today, we post a full-length movie on the life story of Prophet Muhammad.

The Message is a 1976 film directed by Moustapha Akkad chronicling the life and times of Muhammad, the prophet of Islam. Released in both Arabic and English, Mohammad, Messenger of God serves as an introduction to early Islamic history.

Watch this video, if you have not watched it before. Definitely worth the time spent to gain a deeper understanding of what Prophet Muhammad and his Companions faced in the early years of Islam.

Risala: The Life Story of Prophet Muhammad

Laylatul Qadr

2011-08-20T11:11:00.004-04:00

When is Laylatul Qadr?

The last 10 days of Ramadan is upon us. As we approach the most sacred nights of the holy month of Ramadan (Laylatul Qadr), we encourage all Muslims to maximize the next 10 days with a lot of duas and as always to please keep us in your duas.

Today's article is on Laylatul Qadr. Please read this so that you can maximize the last 10 days of Ramadan. Only Allah knows if we will be around to experience Ramadan next year. Do not let anything interrupt you from worshiping Allah as He should be.

Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Power)

In the month of Ramadan, certain nights have greater significance and hold more barakah (blessings) than others. One such night is Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Power). Allah, the Exalted, has described this night as ‘better than a thousand
nights’. The Exalted says:

“Verily We have revealed this [Qur’an] in the Night of Power. And what will explain to you what the Night of Power is? The Night of Power is better than a thousand months. The angels and the Spirit (Jibra’il) descend therein, by the permission of their Lord, with all decrees. Peace it is, till the break of dawn.” (Al‐Qadr v 1‐5)

The above surah indicates to the many virtues of this night:

First Virtue: Allah the Exalted revealed the Qur’an on this night as guidance for mankind and for their success in this world and the Hereafter.

Second Virtue: The question ‘And what will explain to you what the Night of Power is?’ indicates to the unparalleled greatness of this night.

Third Virtue: This night is better than a thousand months

Fourth Virtue: Angels will descend on this night and they do not descend except with goodness, blessings and mercy.

Fifth Virtue: This night is a manifestation of peace as it saves many from the punishment [of Hellfire].

Sixth Virtue: Allah revealed a complete surah in honour and greatness of the night, a surah which will be recited till the Day of Judgement.

As regards to the exact date of Laylatul Qadr, it has not been conclusively disclosed. However, it is reported from the Prophet that it is in the last ten odd nights of Ramadan (i.e. the 21st, 23rd, 25th, 27th, 29th or the last night of Ramadan).

Aisha said: “The Messenger of Allah used to practice i’tikaf in the last ten nights and say: ‘Seek out Laylatul Qadr in the [odd nights] of the last ten days of Ramadan.’” (Bukhari)

Concealing the exact date of Laylatul Qadr was not a haphazard decision but rather a divine wisdom. Allah the Exalted has concealed [the exact date of] Laylatul Qadr so that Muslims may seek it and their keenness for worship may grow and all their nights during the concluding part of the month be spent in prayer and seeking forgiveness.

However, many scholars are of the opinion that the most likely date for Laylatul Qadr is the night of the twenty seventh of Ramadan. Ibn Umar, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Messenger of Allah said: “Laylatul Qadr is on the twenty seventh [night].” (Abu Dawud and Ahmad)

Ibn Abbas, may Allah be pleased with him, was among those who were of the opinion that Laylatul Qadr falls on the twenty seventh night of Ramadan. Although there is a multitude of evidence to substantiate this opinion, there is no absolute surety that Laylatul Qadr falls on the twenty seventh night. Hence, it is advisable to seek this blessed night in the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan.

There are no specific acts to be performed for Laylatul Qadr. The night should be spent by offering much nafl (voluntary) prayers as one can offer, in recitation of the Glorious Qur’an, in dhikr, durud and tasbih. Abu Hurayrah, may Allah be pleased with him, narrated that the Messenger if Allah said: “Whoever stands in prayer and worship during Laylatul Qadr, with complete iman and sincere hope of gaining rewards, will have all his previous sins forgiven.” (Bukhari)

The forgiveness and mercy of Allah should be sought.29 It is reported from Aisha, may Allah be pleased with her, that she once asked: “O Messenger of Allah! If I happen to find Laylatul Qadr, then what should I say in it?” He said: “Say ‘O Allah you are the most forgiving, you love to forgive so forgive me.’” (Tirmidhi)

One should ensure that worship on this night is not neglected or given priority over other worldly duties. The Messenger of Allah once said: “Whoever is deprived of the blessings of Laylatul Qadr [i.e. neglects to worship on this night] is deprived of all good.” (Ahmad)

May Allah give us the ability to reap the benefits of Ramadan and Laylatul Qadr and deprive us not of any of its blessings. May He also enable us to build a long lasting relationship with the Book which has made Ramadan a blessed and glorious month. It is only through the recitation, study, propagation and implementation of this very same Book, that ultimate success can be attained in this world and the next.

Source: Fasting & Ramadan: The Essentials
SM Hasan Al‐Banna

Other Articles on Laylatul Qadr

When is Laylatul Qadr?

Laylatul-al-Qadr Dua

How can Menstruating Muslim Women Observe Laylatul Qadr?

Different Levels in Fasting

2011-08-16T11:49:00.006-04:00

This is an important article that explains the different levels of fasting. Imam Abu Hamid Al‐Ghazali mentions in his Ihya Ulumuddin that fasting has many levels: "It should be known that there are three grades of fasting: ordinary, special and extra‐special".

This Ramadan, ask yourself which level of fasting you would like to attain.

Ordinary Fasting means abstaining from food, drink and sexual satisfaction.

Special Fasting means keeping one’s eyes, ears, tongue, hands and feet and all other organs, free from sin.

Extra‐special Fasting means fasting of the heart from unworthy concerns and worldly thoughts, in total disregard in everything but Allah, Great and Glorious is He.

This kind of fast is broken by thinking of anything other than Allah, Great and Glorious is He, and the Hereafter; it is broken by thinking of worldly matters except those conducive to religious ends, since these constitute provisions for the Hereafter and are not of this lower world. Those versed in the spiritual life of the heart have even said that a sin is recorded against one who concerns himself all day with the arrangements for breaking his fast. Such anxiety stems from lack of trust in the bounty of Allah, Great and Glorious is He, and from lack of certain faith in His promised sustenance.

To this third degree belong the Prophets, the true saints and the intimates of Allah. It does not lend itself to detailed examination in words, as its true nature is better revealed in action. It consists in utmost dedication to Allah, Great and Glorious is He, to the neglect of everything other than Allah, Exalted is He. It is bound up with significance of His words:

“Say: ‘Allah!’ then leaves them to their idle prattling.” (Al‐An’am v 91)

INWARD REQUIREMENTS

As for Special Fasting, this is the kind practised by the righteous. It means keeping all one’s organs free from sin and six things are required for its accomplishment:

1. SEE NOT WHAT DISPLEASES ALLAH
A chaste regard, restrained from viewing anything that is blameworthy or reprehensible, or that distracts the heart and diverts it from the remembrance of Allah, Great and Glorious is He, Said the Prophet: “The furtive glance is one of the poisoned arrows of Satan, on him be Allah’s curse. Whoever forsakes it for fear of Allah will receive from Him, Great and Glorious is He, a faith the sweetness of which he will find in his heart.”

Jabir relates from Anas that the Messenger of Allah, said: “Five things break a
man’s fast: lying, backbiting, slandering, perjury and lustful gaze.”

2. SPEAK NOT
Guarding one’s tongue from twaddle [useless talk]. Lying, backbiting, slandering, obscenity, rudeness, wrangling and controversy; making it observe silence and occupying it with the remembrance of Allah, Great and Glorious is He, and with recitation of the Qur’an. This is the fasting of the tongue.

Sufyan said: “Backbiting corrupts the fast.” Layth quotes Mujahid as saying: “Two habits corrupt fasting: backbiting and telling lies.”

The Prophet said: “Fasting is a shield; so when one of you is fasting he should not use foul or foolish talk. If someone attacks him or insults him, let him say: ‘I am fasting, I am fasting.’”

According to tradition, two women were fasting during the time of Allah’s Messenger. They were so fatigued towards the end of the day, from hunger and thirst that they were on the verge of collapsing. They therefore sent a message to the Messenger of Allah requesting permission to break their fast.

In response, the Prophet sent them a bowl and said: “Tell them to vomit into it what they have eaten.” One of them vomited and filled half of the bowl with flesh blood and tender meat, while the other brought up the same so that they filled it between them. The onlookers were astonished.

Then the Prophet said: “These two women have been fasting from what Allah made lawful to them. They sat together and indulged in backbiting, and here is the flesh of the people they maligned!”

3. HEAR NOT
Closing one’s ear to everything reprehensible; everything unlawful to utter is likewise unlawful to listen to. That is why Allah, Great and Glorious is He, equated the eavesdropper with the profiteer, in His words, Exalted is He: “Listeners to falsehood, consumers of illicit gain.” (Al‐Ma’idah v 42)

Allah, Great and Glorious is He, also said: “Why do their rabbis and priests not forbid them to utter sin and consume unlawful profit?” Silence in the face of backbiting is therefore unlawful. Allah, Exalted is He, said: “You are then just like them.” (An‐Nisa v 140). That is why the Prophet said: “The backbiter and his listener are co‐partners in sin.”

4. DO NOT
Keeping all other limbs and organs away from sin: the hands and feet from reprehensible deeds, and the stomach from questionable food at the time for breaking fast. It is meaningless to fast, to abstain from lawful food, only to break one’s fast on what is unlawful. A man who fasts like this may be compared to one who builds a castle but demolishes a city. Lawful food is injurious in quantity not in quality, so fasting is to reduce the former. A person may give up excessive use of medicine, from fear of ill effects, but he would be a fool to switch to taking poison.

The unlawful is a poison deadly to religion, while the lawful is medicine, beneficial in small doses but harmful in excess. The object of fasting is to induce moderation. The Prophet said: “How many of those who fast get nothing from it but hunger and thirst!” This has been taken to mean those who break their fast on unlawful food.

Some say it refers to those who abstain from lawful food, break their fast on human flesh through backbiting, which is unlawful. Others consider it an allusion to those who do not guard their organ from sin.

5. AVOID OVEREATING
Not to over‐indulge in lawful food at the time of breaking fast, to the point of stuffing one’s stomach. There is no receptacle more odious to Allah, Great and Glorious is He, than a belly stuffed full with lawful food. Of what use is the fast as a means of conquering Allah’s enemy and abating appetite, if at the time of breaking it one not only makes up for all one has missed during the daytime, but perhaps also indulges in a variety of extra foods? It has even become the custom to stock up for Ramadan with all kinds of food, so that more is consumed during that time than in the course of several other months put together. It is well known that the object of fasting is to experience hunger and to keep check of your desire, in order to reinforce the soul in piety. If the stomach is starved from early morning till evening, so that no appetite is aroused and its craving intensified, and it is then offered delicacies and allowed to eat its fill, its taste for pleasure is increased and its force exaggerated; passions are activated which would have lain dormant under normal conditions.

The spirit and secret nature of fasting is to weaken the forces which are Satan’s means of leading us back to evil. It is therefore essential to cut down one’s intake to what one would consume on a normal night, when not fasting. No benefit is derived from the fast if one consumes as much as one would usually take during the day and night combined. Moreover, one of the properties consists in taking little sleep during the daytime, so that one feels the hunger and the thirst and becomes conscious of the weakening of one’s powers, with the consequent purification of the heart.

One should let a certain degree of weakness carry over into the night, making it easier to perform the night prayers (tahajjud) and to recite the litanies (award). It may then be that Satan will not hover around one’s heart, and that one will behold
the Kingdom of Heaven. The Night of Destiny represents the night on which something of this kingdom is revealed, this is what is meant by the words of Allah, Glorious and Exalted is He: “We surely revealed it on the Night of Power.” (Al‐Qadr v 1)

Any one who puts a bag of food between his heart and his breast becomes blind to this revelation. But merely keeping the stomach empty is insufficient to remove the veil, unless one also empties the mind of everything but Allah, Great and Glorious is
He. That is the entire matter, and the starting point of it all is cutting down on food.

6. LOOK TO ALLAH WITH FEAR AND HOPE
After the fast has been broken, the believer should swing like a pendulum between fear and hope. For one does not know if one’s fast will be accepted, so that one will find favour with Allah, or whether it will be rejected, leaving one among those He abhors. This is how one should be at the end of any act of worship one performs.

It is related of Al‐Hasan Ibn Abil Hasan Al‐Basri that he once passed by a group of people who were laughing merrily. He said: “Allah, Great and Glorious is He, has made the month of Ramadan a racecourse, on which His creatures compete in His worship. Some have come in first and have won, while others have lagged behind and lost. It is absolutely amazing to find anybody laughing and playing about on the day when success attends the victors and failure the wastrels. By Allah, if the veil were lifted off, the door of good would surely be preoccupied with his good works and the evildoer with his evil deeds.” In other words, the man whose fast has been accepted will be too full of joy to indulge in idle sport, while for one who has suffered rejection, laughter will be precluded by remorse.

Of Al‐Ahnaf Ibn Qays it is reported that he was once told: “You are an aged elder; fasting would enfeeble you.” But he replied: “By this I am getting ready for a long journey. Obedience to Allah, Glorified is He, is easier to endure than His punishment.”

Source: Fasting & Ramadan: The Essentials by SM Hasan Al‐Banna

Charity in Islam - A Consistent Act

2011-08-16T11:40:00.002-04:00

Muslims are enjoined to give zakat (charity) throughout their lives. Charity is one of the five pillars of Islam. During the holy month of Ramadan, many Muslims especially desire to give charity willingly.

Narrated Ibn Abbas (): “The Prophet was the most generous of the people, and he used to be more so in the month of Ramadan when Gabriel visited him. Gabriel would meet with him every night of Ramadan until the end of the month. The Prophet would recite the Holy Qur’an to Gabriel. When Gabriel met him, he would be more generous than a swift wind (bringing rain).” [Sahih Bukhari, Volume 3, Book 31, Number 126]

So Muslims being extra generous during Ramadan is, of course, a good thing.

Now, there is a difference between zakat (which can be given at any time) and zakat-al-fitr (which is a special charity paid to the needy on or before the day of Eid-al-Fitr). To find out more, please read this article.

Charitable giving should not end after Ramadan. And charitable giving need not only entail the giving of money or goods. Charity, for which the expression used in the Holy Quran is "spending out of what God has given you". Giving charity does not have to be only money. Charity can also be given by using your energy, talent, resources, money, possessions, or whatever else, to help and do good to those in need.

In Islam, charity is very often mentioned alongside prayer because just as the latter is man's relation with God, or man's duty towards God, the former (charity) represents his relation with his fellow-beings, and indeed with all the creation of God.

Prayer expresses love for God, submission to Him, and a desire to bring out the Divine qualities that lie hidden in every person. Charity is an expression of sympathy and benevolence towards God's creation, putting into actual practice the lessons you learn in prayer.

"Of their goods take alms, that so thou might purify and sanctify them; and pray on their behalf, verily thy prayers are a source of security for them."
(The Holy Quran, 9:103)

"Have you seen the one who denies the Religion? Such is he who repulses the orphan, and who does not urge others to feed the poor. Woe to worshippers, who are absent-minded to their prayer, those who make a show (of piety), and refuse to render small acts of kindness (towards others)."
(The Holy Quran, 107: 1-7)

The Prophet said: "Charity is a necessity for every Muslim".

He was asked: 'What if a person has nothing?' The Prophet replied: 'He should work with his own hands for his benefit and then give something out of such earnings in charity.' The Companions asked: 'What if he is not able to work?' The Prophet said: 'He should help poor and needy persons.' The Companions further asked 'What if he cannot do even that?' The Prophet said 'He should urge others to do good.' The Companions said 'What if he lacks that also?' The Prophet said 'He should check himself from doing evil. That is also charity".

In today's economic climate, many people are apprehensive about charity because they are fearful for their own livelihood - lack of job security, unemployment, hefty bills, mouths to feed and so on can be heavy burdens to bear. But there will also be someone out there who is in a worse condition than yourself.

Read on for some tips on how to face this economic recession, and be more giving despite your own difficulties.

Nowadays, families meticulously scrimp and save to meet monthly expenses. Luxuries are now being compromised to hold on to necessities. Promotions and job acquisitions are no-shows. The global economy is facing a crisis which is taking its toll on the peace of mind of people all over the world, as the future looks bleak and the economic forecast spells further doom.

Fortunately for us Muslims, we have Islam: the perfect religion that provides effective remedies for all depressing situations. It teaches Muslims how to strike the perfect balance in all aspects of life, so that any excess and extravagance is avoided, and everyone gets their due, leading to a thriving society and a bustling economy.

Resort to daily repentance (istighfar):

If you are facing a lack of resources and a tighter spending hand nowadays, reflect upon your past and identify possible causes for the descent of this calamity upon you. Did you abstain from giving zakaah, making flimsy excuses to convince yourself that it is not due upon you? Did you avoid giving charity when you could have, instead buying your children more expensive clothes? Did you shout at a beggar, acting arrogantly, even though you could have spared a kind word? Well, it doesn't take long for what goes round to come around, does it?

Repentance is something that brings blessings and provision from Allah. As you'll see in the Quran, even the Prophets sent to bygone nations exhorted them to turn back towards Allah sincerely, and to leave sinning, so that they may be blessed with provision. Prophet Hud said to his people:

"And O my people! Ask forgiveness of your Lord, and turn to Him (in repentance): He will send you the skies pouring abundant rain, and add strength to your strength: so turn you not back in sin!" [11:52]

Prophet Nuh also gave similar advice to his nation:

"And I said: 'Ask your Sustainer to forgive you your sins - for, verily, He is all-forgiving! He will shower upon you heavenly blessings abundant, and will aid you with worldly goods and children, and will bestow upon you gardens, and bestow upon you running waters.'" [71:10-12]

Now is the time for us Muslims to turn back to Allah in humility, seeking His forgiveness for being lax in giving charity to those less fortunate than us, and for committing other sins.

Try to do istighfar at least a hundred times a day. Leading a life of piety, in which you try to stay away from disobeying Allah as much as possible, leads to a well-provided, resourceful existence:

"And whosoever fears Allah and keeps his duty to Him, He will make a way for him to get out (from every difficulty). And He will provide him from (sources) he never could imagine..."
[65:2-3]

Give zakaah and supererogatory sadaqah:

Try to meticulously calculate your zakaah this year, and give it off on time to the most deserving person or family within your clan, or in your neighborhood. Make sure you are able to search for the neediest person nearby. It will take extra time and effort, but Allah, The All-Knower, will be most appreciative of any extra sincerity you put in giving charity.

Some signs of needy people are apparent on their persona: they work at menial jobs, worry and anxiety mar their facial expression, their clothes are old and worn, and their physical health depicts malnutrition and undernourishment.

"...and give them (others) preference even though they were themselves in need." [59:9]

Further, make charity an ongoing family project. A good strategy could be making your children donate any of their old toys, clothes or shoes to poor children whenever they are bought new ones. This will not only de-clutter your home, but will also bring more blessing in it, not to mention being an effective practical Islamic training for your children.

One thing to remember is that, although giving away old things is praiseworthy in itself, sometimes, Muslims should also donate those things which they love and cherish, because Allah says that they cannot attain piety otherwise:

"By no means shall you attain piety unless you spend of that which you love." [3:92]

By Sadaf Farooqi http://www.howtodothings.com/user/sadaf

Ramadan Dua From Quran

2011-08-12T13:10:00.021-04:00

If you are at a loss of words and wondering how to supplicate to Allah (dua) this Ramadan, then look no further than the Quran for inspiration.

Making dua to Allah is highly encouraged:

"And your Lord says, "Call upon Me; I will respond to you." Indeed, those who disdain My worship will enter Hell [rendered] contemptible." (Holy Qur'an, 40:60)

Here is a compilation of 25 duas straight from the Quran.

1)

"...Our Lord, give us in this world [that which is] good and in the Hereafter [that which is] good and protect us from the punishment of the Fire." (Qur'an, 2:201)

2)

"...Our Lord, pour upon us patience and plant firmly our feet and give us victory over the disbelieving people"." (Qur'an, 2:250)

3)

"...Our Lord, do not impose blame upon us if we have forgotten or erred..." (Qur'an, 2:286)

4)

"...Our Lord, and lay not upon us a burden like that which You laid upon those before us..." (Qur'an, 2:286)
Cont.

5)

"...Our Lord, and burden us not with that which we have no ability to bear. And pardon us; and forgive us; and have mercy upon us. You are our protector, so give us victory over the disbelieving people."(Qur'an, 2:286)

6)

"Our Lord, let not our hearts deviate after You have guided us and grant us from Yourself mercy. Indeed, You are the Bestowed." (Qur'an, 3:8)

7)

"...Our Lord, forgive us our sins and the excess [committed] in our affairs and plant firmly our feet and give us victory over the disbelieving people." (Qur'an, 3:147)

8)

"Our Lord, indeed whoever You admit to the Fire - You have disgraced him, and for the wrongdoers there are no helpers." (Qur'an, 3:192)

9)

"Our Lord, indeed we have heard a caller calling to faith, [saying], 'Believe in your Lord,' and we have believed..." (Qur'an, 3:193)
Cont.

10)

"...Our Lord, so forgive us our sins and remove from us our misdeeds and cause us to die with the righteous." (Qur'an, 3:193)

11)

"Our Lord! And grant us that which you have promised to us by Your messengers and save us from shame on the Day of Judgement. Verily You never fail to fulfill Your promise." (Qur'an, 3:194)

12)

"...Our Lord, we have wronged ourselves, and if You do not forgive us and have mercy upon us, we will surely be among the losers." (Qur'an, 7:23)

13)

"...Our Lord, do not place us with the wrongdoing people." (Qur'an, 7:47)

14)

"...Our Lord, decide between us and our people in truth, and You are the best of those who give decision." (Qur'an, 7:89)

15)

"...Our Lord, pour upon us patience and let us die as Muslims [in submission to You]." (Qur'an, 7:126)

16)

"...Upon Allah do we rely. Our Lord, make us not [objects of] trial for the wrongdoing people. And save us by Your mercy from the disbelieving people." (Qur'an, 10:85-86)

17)

"Our Lord, indeed You know what we conceal and what we declare, and nothing is hidden from Allah on the earth or in the heaven." (Qur'an, 14:38)

18)

"...Our Lord, grant us from Yourself mercy and prepare for us from our affair right guidance." (Qur'an, 18:10)

19)

"...Our Lord, grant us from among our wives and offspring comfort to our eyes and make us an example for the righteous." (Qur'an, 25:74)

20)

"...Our Lord, You have encompassed all things in mercy and knowledge, so forgive those who have repented and followed Your way and protect them from the punishment of Hellfire." (Qur'an, 40:7)

21)

"Our Lord, and admit them to gardens of perpetual residence which You have promised them and whoever was righteous among their fathers, their spouses and their offspring. Indeed, it is You who is the Exalted in Might, the Wise." (Qur'an, 40:8)

22)

"Our Lord, remove from us the torment; indeed, we are believers." (Qur'an, 44:12)

23)

"...Our Lord, forgive us and our brothers who preceded us in faith and put not in our hearts [any] resentment toward those who have believed. Our Lord, indeed You are Kind and Merciful." (Qur'an, 59:10)

24)

"...Our Lord, upon You we have relied, and to You we have returned, and to You is the destination." (Qur'an, 60:4)

25)

"...Our Lord, perfect for us our light and forgive us. Indeed, You are over all things competent." (Qur'an, 66:8)

Compiled by: http://www.muslimness.com/2011/08/25-prayers-to-learn-from-quran.html

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