Solat ~ The Prayer

I'tidal اعتدال

2012-02-09T09:07:00.039+08:00

Sesudah selesai melakukan rukuk diteruskan dengan I`tidal iaitu bangkit berdiri tegak dengan mengangkat kedua tangan sampai ke telinga dengan jari-jari terbuka seperti ketika TAKBIRATULIHRAM seraya membaca TASMI’.

(After completion of the bow do I`tidal namely stood upright with both hands lifted to the ear with the fingers open just like when TAKBIRATULIHRAM while reading TASMI.)

Ketika berdiri tegak, mata tetap ditujukan ke arah sujud .(tempat sujud)

(When standing upright, the eyes must still be directed towards the prostrate. (Place of prostration))

Offering a Two Rak'ah Prayer After Tawaf

2011-10-10T18:09:00.012+08:00

It is sunnah to offer a two rak'ah prayer after completing the tawaf at the Station of Ibrahim (peace be upon him), or at any other place in the Sacred Mosque, regardless of whether it is a supererogatory tawaf or obligatory one (as in Hajj or 'Umrah).

Jabir reported that "When the Prophet (peace be upon him) came to Makkah, he went around the Ka'bah seven times, then went to the Station of Ibrahim and recited the verse (Qur'an 2.125): "And take of the Station of Abraham a place of prayer." He prayed behind it, and then went to the Black Stone and kissed it." (Reported by Tirmizhi who considers it a sound hadith)

In this two rak'ah prayer, it is sunnah to recite Surah Al-Kafirun, in the first rak 'ah, and Surah Al-Ikhlas in the second rak 'ah, after reciting Al-Fatihah. (Reported by Muslim and others) These two rak'ahs may be offered at any time of the day and night including the prohibited times.

Jubair bin Mut'im reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, "O Bani Abd Manaf! Do not prevent anyone from performing tawaf around the Ka'bah. One may pray (in the Sacred Mosque) any time during the day or night." (Reported by Ahmad, Abu Dawud, and Tirmizhi who regards it a sound hadith) Ash-Shafi'i and Ahmad hold this view.

Though it is sunnah to offer this two rak'ah prayer after the tawaf in the Sacred Mosque, it may also be offered outside the Mosque. Umm Salamah reported that she performed a tawaf around the House riding, but she did not offer the two rak'ah prayer until she had left the Mosque. (Bukhari) Malik reported from 'Umar that he offered these two rak'ahs at Zhi Tuwa valley. Bukhari also has reported that 'Umar prayed (these two rak'ahs) outside the Sacred Mosque.

If one offered a prescribed prayer after the tawaf then he need not offer this two rak'ah prayer. The Shafi'i school holds this view, which is also in accordance with the well known position of Ahmad. The Maliki and the Hanafi schools are of the opinion that these two rak'ahs must be offered and no other prayer can replace them.

Fiqh-us-Sunnah (here)

Du’aa of Istikhaarah

2011-08-05T10:58:00.003+08:00

(youtube by ummsuhayb : here )

Beautifully recited by Mishary Raashid al-'Afasy.

Here is the Arabic of the du'aa:

اللهم إني أستخيرك بعلمك ، واستقدرك بقدرتك ، وأسألك من فضلك العظيم ، فإنك تقدر ولا أقدر ، وتعلم ولا أعلم ، وأنت علام الغيوب . اللهم إن كنت تعلم أن هذا الأمر- ويسمي حاجته - خير لي في ديني ومعاشي وعاقبة أمري فاقدره لي ، ويسره لي ، ثم بارك لي فيه . وإن كنت تعلم أن هذا الأمر شر لي في ديني ومعاشي وعاقبة أمري فاصرفه عني واصرفني عنه واقدر لي الخير حيث كان ثم أرضني به

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Here is the English Transliteration of the du'aa:

[Allaahumma innee astakheeruka bi'ilmik, wa astaqdiruka biqudratik, wa as aluka min fadlikal 'atheem, fa innaka taqdiru wa laa aqdir, wa ta'lamu wa laa a'lam, wa anta 'allaamul ghuyoob. Allaahumma in kunta ta'lamu anna haathal amr. -here you mention your need-. Khayrun lee fee deeni wa ma'aashi wa 'aaqibati amree faqdirhu lee wa yassirhu lee, thumma baarik lee fee. Wa in kunta ta'lamu anna haathal amr sharrun lee fee deenee wa ma'aashi wa 'aaqibati amree fasrifhu annee wasrifni an waqdir li al-khayra haythu kaan thumma ardineebi.]

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And here is the English meaning:

O Allaah, I seek Your counsel by Your knowledge and by Your power I seek strength and I ask You from Your immense favour, for verily You are able while I am not and verily You know while I do not and You are the Knower of the unseen. O Allaah, if You know this affair -and here he mentions his need- to be good for me in relation to my religion, my life, and end, then decree and facilitate it for me, and bless me with it, and if You know this affair to be ill for me towards my religion, my life, and end, then remove it from me and remove me from it , and decree for me what is good wherever it be and make me satisfied with such.

****************

Jabir bin Abdullaah –RadhiAllaahu anhu- said

"the Messenger of Allaah -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- used to teach us al-Istikharah (a prayer said for seeking blessings in carrying out a decision) for all matters, just like he used to teach us a chapter from the Qur’aan, he would say: If any of you intends to undertake a matter then he should pray two Rakah other than an obligatory prayer then he should say the Du'aa of Istikhaarah.

Ibn al-Qayyim -Rahimullaah- said:

‘So the purpose of al-Istikharah is to rely upon Allaah and entrustment to Him and the capability to fulfill the action with Allaah’s Capability, His knowledge. And that Allaah chooses good for His slave, and this is from those things which necessitate being pleased with Allaah as the Lord. As a person will not taste the flavour of Eemaan if he does not have these things (reliance, entrustment etc), and if he is pleased with destiny after al-Istikharah then that is a sign of happiness.’

[Taken from ‘Za’ad al-Ma’aad’ by Ibn al-Qayyim 2/443-445]

Shaykh Muhammad bin Umar Bazmool said:

‘That al-Istikharah is not done when a person is uncertain about the matter at hand; because the Prophet -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- said: ‘If any of you intends to undertake a matter’ and that the whole of the Dua’ indicates to this point.

So if a Muslim is uncertain about a matter, and he intends to pray al-Istikharah , then he should make a choice between the two matters and then pray al-Istikharah , and then after al-Istikharah he executes that matter, and if it was good then Allaah will make it easy for him and bless him in that, and if it was not good for him, then Allaah turns it away from him and makes easy for him that in which there is good by the permission of Allaah -Subhanahu wa Ta’ala.

[Taken from: ‘Buggeeyat al-Mutattawa’ fee salat at-tattawa’ p.105]

Benefits of Prayers by Ibn Qayyim Jawzyah

2011-05-12T11:56:00.000+08:00

In his excellent book, Zaad al-Ma'aad, in the section which includes the book, At-Tibb an-Nabawee, Shaykh al-Islaam Ibn al-Qayyim (may Allaah have Mercy on him) stated in his alphabetized discussion of medicines and nutrition:

Allaah the Exalted has said:

( And seek help in patience and in prayer. Surely that is something quite difficult on (people) other than people of humility and submissiveness )

And HE has said:

( O you who believe! Seek help in patience and in prayer! Verily, Allaah is with those who are patient. )

And HE, the Exalted One, has said:

(And command your family to pray, and be patient upon that. We are not asking you for any provisions,(rather) We provide for you, and the favorable outcome is for (those with) taqwaa (consciousness of Allaah that produces righteous actions). )

And in the Books of Sunnah it is reported that the Messenger of Allaah (sallallaahu 'alayhe wa sallam) used to hasten to prayer whenever an affair disturbed him.

And previously discussed was the concept of healing most ailments through prayer before seeking out other ways of dealing with them.

- 1 - Prayer is something that causes one to receive sustenance.

- 2 - It draws one close to Ar-Rahmaan (Allaah, the Most Merciful).

- 3 - It keeps away the Shaytaan (the Devil).

- 4 - It is something that safeguards one's physical health.

- 5 - It keeps away harmful things.

- 6 - It casts away illnesses.

- 7 - It strengthens the heart.

- 8 - It brightens one's countenance.

- 9 - It delights the soul.

- 10 - It gets rid of laziness.

- 11 - It makes the limbs active.

- 12 - It increases one's physical strength.

- 13 - It expands the chest (making one at ease and giving him insight).

- 14 - It is nourishment for the soul.

- 15 - It illuminates the heart.

- 16 - It safeguards one's blessings.

- 17 - It repels catastrophes.

- 18 - It brings on blessings.

And overall, it has an amazing effect on the health of the body and heart, and in strengthening them and expelling harmful pollutants from them. No two people have been afflicted with any disability, disease, or other calamity, except that the portion of the one who prays is less and his outcome is cleaner.

Also, prayer has an amazing effect on the evils of the dunyaa (the worldly life) and how it repels them, especially when the prayer is performed properly and completely, inwardly and outwardly. Nothing keeps the evils of the dunyaa at bay and brings on the benefits of it like prayer.

The reason behind this is that prayer is one's connection to Allaah, the Mighty and Majestic. So based on the strength of a person's relationship with his Lord, the Mighty and Majestic, the doors of goodness will accordingly be opened up for him, bad things and the reasons for them befalling him will be cut off, and the elements of success granted by His Lord, the Mighty and Majestic, will begin pouring in, along with safety and good health, wealth and worldly riches, relaxation, bliss, enjoyment, and all types of joyful affairs will be brought to him, and in an expedient manner, too.

( Here )

Sajdah Tilawah

2011-05-10T08:06:00.003+08:00

(From Saudi Gazette - Fatwa)

Q – If I come across a verse in which there is a prostration when I am reciting the Qur’an at my desk, or when I am teaching the students, or at any other place, should I perform Sajdah Tilawah, or not? And is the prostration for the reciter and the listener both?

A – Sajdah Tilawah is a Sunnah for the reciter and for the listener and it is not an obligation, nor is it prescribed for the listener except while following the reciter. So if you recite a verse in which there is a prostration in your office or at the place of instruction, it is lawful for you to make prostration and it is prescribed for the students to prostrate with you, because they are the listeners. And if you do not observe the prostration, there is no objection.

– Sheikh Abdul Aziz Bin Baz; Fatawa Islamiyah, vol. 2, pg. 282

Sajdah at-Tilawah (Arabic: سجدة التلاوة) is a prostration (sujud) that is performed when certain verses of the Qur`an are recited or read. According to Ibn Hazm, performing this protstration is not obligatory (wajib), but is surplus.

For example Zaid bin Thabit related in a hadith that the Prophet did not prostrate when the former read surat an-Najm to him.

Generally, there are fourteen sajdahs in the Qur'an. According to Imam ash-Shafi' the fifteenth verse is in surat al-Hajj 22:77. The ayat of sajdah are marked with the following symbol in the Qur'an: ۩. The fifteen verses of prostration are:

1. al-'Araf 7:206

2. ar-Ra’d 13:15

3. an-Nahl 16:49

4. al-Isra' 17:107

5. Maryam 19:58

6. al-Hajj 22:18

7. al-Hajj 22:77

8. al-Furqan 25:60

9. an-Naml 27:25

10. as-Sajdah 32:15

11. Saad 38:24

12. Fussilat 41:37

13. an-Najm 53:62

14. al-Inshiqaq 84:21

15. al-‘Alaq 96:19

Punctuality of Prayer

2011-05-06T07:02:00.027+08:00

Sheikh Abdul Nasir Jangda gives an important reminder about the importance of the five daily prayers. Miraculously, the prayers have the ability to enhance all aspects of our lives (school, work, family, etc.). We should strive to make the prayers an event in our daily schedules, instead of just praying when we get time throughout the day.

(From youtube : Quran Weekly - here)

Here are some tips from Syeikh Abdul Nasir on how to safeguard your prayers:

1. Punctuality.

Treat Solat as a priority. Sometimes we think that we do not get the focus of solat but it is actually because we do not treat solat as number one.

2. Make every Solat an Event.

Abdullah bin Mas’ud had asked the Prophet (PBUH), “Which deed is the dearest to Allah?”

The Prophet (PBUH) replied, “To offer As-Salat (the prayers) at their early stated fixed times.”

3. Treat prayer as a valuable commodity.

Solat is the most valuable asset that we have. It is the basis and foundation of our relationship with Allah. Like a diamond or a hidden pearl in the depths of the ocean, solat is such a valuable asset that we have to protect and safeguard it.

“Guard strictly As-Salat (prayers) especially the middle solat. And stand before Allah with obedience.” – Al-Baqarah, 238

Who passes in front of a praying person...

2010-11-22T21:10:00.003+08:00

Abul-Juhaim `Abdullah bin Al-Harith
(May Allah be pleased with him) said:

The Messenger of Allah (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said,

"If the person who passes in front of a praying person,
realizes the enormity of the sinfulness of this act,
it will have been better for him to wait
forty than to pass in front of him.''

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

[The narrator was not sure whether
the Prophet (Sallallahu Alaihi Wasallam) said forty days, months or years.]

Commentary:

We learn from this Hadith that it is a great sin to pass before
a person who is offering Salat. People should also take care that
they do not offer Salat without placing a Sutrah in front of them.
A Sutrah refers to anything that a person sets up in front of him;
this could be a stick, another person praying in front of him or
even a line which he can draw on the ground. The distance between
the person offering his Salat and the Sutrah should not be more
than approximately one meter and a half. If the distance is longer
than this, then it is not unlawful to pass before someone offering Salat.

Mistakes Done In Sujud

2010-10-20T22:33:00.001+08:00

********************

By: Mashhur Hasan Al Salman

(Source: The Clarified Ruling Of Mistakes Done In Salat)

While being in the State of Sujud, some muslims abandon the Sunnah of Tajafi which is to lift one’s belly up wards away from one’s thighs and one’s arms away from one’s sides as far as possible provided one does not cause inconvenience to the one next to him.

It also includes that one lifts one’s arms from the ground putting only his hands on it at the level of his shoulders or ears not at the knees.

However, a muslim must not exaggerate in doing Tajafi by straightening his back to an extent that he looks like the one lying on the ground. This is indeed a detested exaggeration.(3)

Tajafi must be done in a moderate manner; stretching not one’s back too much nor huddling oneself too much.

Some muslims behave like animals in their Salat the thing that indicates their sense of carelessness towards it.

Some of them may look here and there like a fox does, spread their arms on the ground like lions, do their Salat so quickly in the same manner a crow does when eating, stick to a certain place in which one does his Salat like a camel does regarding his resting place, sit on one’s buttocks spreading one’s feet like dogs do when they sit, or moving one’s hands to the left and to the right when reciting Taslim in the same manner horses move their tails.

Ibn Al-Qayyim said: ‘Our Shari‘ah prohibited that a muslim act in the same manner the Kuffar, animals, demons, bedouins or women [as for men] act. While being in Salat, we [muslims] are also forbidden to act in the same manner animals or the ignorants behave.(4)

’Anas (Radhi Allaahu Anhu) related that the prophet (Sallalahu Alahi wa Sallam) said: ‘Straighten your selves when doing Sujud; never spread your arms on the ground as dogs do’.(5)

Explaining this hadith, Imam An-Nawawi said: ‘The hadith means that when prostrating, a muslim must put his hands on the ground lifting his arms a way from it and totally a way from his sides that his armpits could be seen in case they were uncovered. This manner of doing Sujud is recommended by all ‘Ulamah, if it was abandoned one incurs a sin upon himself but his Salat is valid, Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala) knows best.

The ‘Ulamah stated that the rationale behind such a manner of doing Sujud is to show complete submission [to Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala)] and it gives a sense of activity. On the other hand, spreading one’s arms on the ground -like dogs do when they sit- cast a sense of carelessness towards Salat and not being fully given to it’.(6)

It is of Sunnah that one’s feet be erected in Sujud, heels be close together and toes be directed to the Qiblah.(1) Unfortunately, this Sunnah has been abandoned by many muslims. I hope that these few lines get them to remember it and put it under application. May Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala) guide us to follow his prophet’s (Sallalahu Alahi wa Sallam) Sunnah.

It is also a mistake to put one’s fists on the ground when doing Sujud as some people do and so is the case with putting one feet on the other.

May Allah (Subhanahu wa Ta'ala) guide us and them to the right.

(1) Narrated by Ibn Khuzaimah in his “Sahih” (vol. 1 / p. 322) (no. 638), through a good chain of narrators as is mentioned in “Sifat Salatun Naby” (p. 149).

(2) See: “Sifat Salatun Naby” (p. 149).

(3) See: The article titled “Tanbihat ‘Ala Ba’dil ’Akhta’ Allaty Yaf‘aluha Al-Musallin Fi Salatihim” by shaikh ‘Abdullah Ibn ‘Abdir Rahman Al-Jibrin, published by “Al- Mujtama’ magazine (issue no. 855).

(4) Al-Furusyyah (p. 10). See: “As- Salat wahukmu Tarikiha” (p. 143).

(5) Narrated by Al-Bukhari in his “Sahih” (vol. 2 / p. 301) (no. 822).

(6) “Sahih Muslim” Sharh An-Nawawi, (vol. 4 / p. 209).

Eid ul Fitr Greetings

2010-09-09T10:42:00.004+08:00

Assalamualaikum

To all my Muslim friends :

May the blessings of Allah SWT be with you and famly.

Eid Prayer

2010-09-08T07:01:00.000+08:00

Short Description of the Eid Prayer and the Eid Khutbah

From Islamic Newsletter 'As-Sunnah' Issue no: 10

Compiled by Sister Shawana A. Aziz

The Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “Let the free women, the virgins, and the menstruating women attend the Eid prayer, and witness the good and the supplications of the believers. As for the menstruating women, they should stay away from the Musallah (i.e.. should not participate in the prayer itself).”
[Saheeh al-Bukharee and Saheeh Muslim]

Eid ul Fitr Salah (Prayer) - Makkah - 1429 (2008)
صلاة العيد في الحرم المكي

1 - The Eid Salaah consists of two Raka'ahs. Umar (radhi allahu anhu) said: “The traveler’s prayer is two raka'ah; the Adha prayer is two Raka'ah; and the Jumuah prayer is two Rak'ah; this is their full length as came from the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam).”
[(saheeh) Musnad Ahmad, Nisa'ee, Baihaqee and others]

2 - The Eid Salaah is not preceded by the adhan (the call to announce the prayer time) or Iqamah (the call to start prayer). Jabir bin Samurah (radhi allahu anhu) said: “I prayed the Eid prayer with Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), on more than one occasion, without adhan or Iqamah.”
[Saheeh Muslim]

3 - No Sunnah prayer may precede or follow the Eid prayer, except if it is performed in a Masjid instead of a Musallah, in which case one must pray two raka'hs before sitting down. Ibn Abbas (radhi allahu anhu) reported: “The Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) went out (of his house) on the day of Fitr, prayed two raka'hs and did not pray before or after it.”
[Zaad al-Maad (2/443)]

4 - Like any other deed in Islam, the prayer must be preceded with a true intention of worshiping Allah alone in the heart.

5 - The first raka'h (one prayer unit) is initiated with Takbeer al-ihram, followed by the opening supplication.

6 - Then followed by seven Takbeers in the first raka'h and five more in the second rak'ah. Aa'ishah (radhi allahu anha) said: “Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) would say Takbeer in both Fitr and Adha: seven in the first and five in the second, other than the two Takbeers of Ruku (bowing).”
[(Saheeh) - Abu Dawood (1150) and others]

7 - After the Takbeer one should recite Ta'awwuth - 'A'uthu billahi min ash-Shaytaan ir-Rajeem' meaning “I seek refuge in Allah from the outcast devil” and Basmallah 'Bismillah ar-Rahmaan ar-Raheem' meaning 'In the Name of Allah, the Most Beneficent, the Most Merciful.'

8 - Followed by the recitation of Soorah al-Fatihah

9 - Then, the recitation of Soorah al-Qaaf in the first raka'h and the Soorah al-Qamar in the second - OR - Soorah al-Alaa in the first and Soorah al-Ghashiyah in the second.

Ibn al-Qayyim (rahimahullah) said: “Both of these have been authentically reported from the action of the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), nothing else is authentic.”
[Zaad al-Maad (1/443)]

(Note: Reciting a Soorah different from the ones mentioned above will too complete the prayer.)

The remainder of the prayer is performed in the same manner as any other prayer, without any difference.

Eid-ul-Fitr Salah - Madinah - 1429

The Eid Khutbah:

The Sunnah of the Eid Khutbah is that it should be delivered after the Eid Salaah. Ibn Abbas (radhi allahu anhu) said: “I attended the Eid with Allah's Messenger (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam), Abu Bakr (radhi allahu anhu) Umar (radhi allahu anhu) and Uthman (radhi allahu anahu); all of them would pray before the Khutbah.”
[Saheeh al-Bukharee]

Listening to the Eid Khutbah is not wajib , Abdullah bin as-Sa'ib (radhi allahu anhu) reported that he attended the Eid prayer with the Prophet (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam); and when he (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) finished the prayer, he said: “We shall have a Khutbah; so let whoever wishes to sit for the Khutbah do so, and whoever wishes to leave, may leave.”
[(saheeh) Abu Dawood)]

If the Eid falls on a Friday, it becomes optional for men to attend the Jumu'ah prayer. Abu Hurayrah (radhi allahu anhu) reported that on such occurrence, the Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alaihi wa-sallam) said: “Two Eids have coincided on this day of yours; thus whoever wishes, is exempted from attending the Jumu'ah prayer. Yet, we shall hold it.”
[Authenticated by Shaikh al-Albanee in Irwa ul-Ghalil]

It should be noted that if one does not attend the Jumu’ah prayer, then it becomes obligatory on him to offer the Dhuhr prayer.

How to Seek Laylatul-Qadr

2010-09-02T22:15:00.009+08:00

By ~ Shaykh Muhammad Nasir-ud-Deen al-Albani

(From Islaam.com)

Adapted from "The Night Prayers: Qiyam & Tarawih from works by Muhammad Nasir ud-Deen al-Albani (and other scholars)"
(Compiled by Muhammad al-Jibali, © 1997 QSS)

Laylat ul-Qadr is the most blessed night.

A person who misses it has indeed missed a great amount of good. If a believing person is zealous to obey his Lord and increase the good deeds in his record, he should strive to encounter this night and to pass it in worship and obedience. If this is facilitated for him, all of his previous sins will be forgiven.

Praying Qiyaam

It is recommended to make a long Qiyaam prayer during the nights on which Laylat ul-Qadr could fall. This is indicated in many hadeeths, such as the following:

Abu Tharr (radhiallahu `anhu) relates:

"We fasted with Allah's Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) in Ramadaan. He did not lead us (in qiyaam) at all until there were seven (nights of Ramadaan) left. Then he stood with us (that night - in prayer) until one third of the night had passed. He did not pray with us on the sixth. On the fifth night, he prayed with us until half of the night had passed. So we said, 'Allah's Messenger! Wouldn't you pray with us the whole night?'

He replied:

'Whoever stands in prayer with the imaam until he (the imaam) concludes the prayer, it is recorded for him that he prayed the whole night.'…"
[Recorded by Ibn Abi Shaybah, Abu Dawud, at-Tirmithi (who authenticated it), an-Nasa'i, Ibn Majah, at-Tahawi (in Sharhu Ma`an il-Athar, Ibn Nasr, al-Faryabi, and al-Bayhaqi. Their isnad is authentic.]

[Point of benefit: Abu Dawud mentioned: "I heard Ahmad being asked, 'Do you like for a man to pray with the people or by himself during Ramadan?' He replied, 'Pray with the people' I also heard him say, 'I would prefer for one to pray (qiyaam) with the imaam and to pray witr with him as well, for the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said: "When a man prays with the imaam until he concludes, it is recorded that he prayed the rest of that night." [Masaa'il]]

Abu Hurayrah (radhiallahu `anhu) narrated that the Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) said:

"Whoever stands (in qiyaam) in Laylat ul-Qadr [and it is facilitated for him] out of faith and expectation (of Allah's reward), will have all of his previous sins forgiven."
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim; the addition "and it is facilitated for him" is recorded by Ahmad from the report of `Ubaadah Bin as-Samit; it means that he is permitted to be among the sincere worshippers during that blessed night.]

Making Supplications

It is also recommended to make extensive supplication on this night. `A'ishah (radhiallahu `anha) reported that she asked Allah's Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam), "O Messenger of Allah! If I knew which night is Laylat ul-Qadr, what should I say during it?"

And he instructed her to say:

"Allahumma innaka `afuwwun tuh.ibbul `afwa fa`fu `annee - O Allah! You are forgiving, and you love forgiveness. So forgive me."
[Recorded by Ahmad, Ibn Majah, and at-Tirmithi. Verified to be authentic by Al-Albani]

Abandoning Worldly Pleasures for the Sake of Worship

It is further recommended to spend more time in worship during the nights on which Laylat ul-Qadr is likely to be. This calls for abandoning many worldly pleasures in order to secure the time and thoughts solely for worshipping Allah.

`A'ishah (radhiallahu `anha) reported:

"When the (last) ten started, the Prophet (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) would tighten his izaar (i.e. he stayed away from his wives in order to have more time for worship), spend the whole night awake (in prayer), and wake up his family."
[Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

And she said:

"Allah's Messenger (sallallahu `alayhi wa sallam) used to exert more (in worship) on the last ten than on other nights."
[Muslim ]

How to pray from the Sunnah

2010-08-15T18:02:00.000+08:00

The way to pray from Sunnah

(by : AshSheikh786)

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How to pray from the Sunnah (1 of 5)

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How to pray from the Sunnah (2 of 5)

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How to pray from the Sunnah (3 of 5)

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How to pray from the Sunnah (4 of 5)

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How to pray from the Sunnah (5 of 5)

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Performing Wudu and Its Virtues

2010-08-13T23:20:00.012+08:00

Cleanliness (Taharah) is an important precondition of Islamic worship.
Wudu is an essential part of Cleanliness.

Salah(prayer) is not valid without Wudu' or Tayammum(dry Ablution).
Allah says in the Qur'an :

"Surely Allah loves those who turn to Him and those who care for cleanliness" (Al-Baqarah (2):22).

(From : Islamawareness.net)

1. First make Niyyah (Intention) that you are making Wudu' for Salah and begin saying. "Bismillah.." (In the name of Allah, the most merciful and the most kind). Wash both hands up to the wrist three times, making sure that water has reached between the fingers.

2. Put a handful of water into your mouth and rinse it thoroughly three times

3, 4 Sniff water into your nostrils three times to clean them and then wash the tip of the nose.

5,6 Wash your face three times from right ear to left ear and from forehead to throat.

7. Wash your right arm and then your left arm thoroughly from wrist up to elbow three times.

8 a & b) Move the wet palms over the head from the top of forehead to the back of the head.

9) Pass the wet tips of index fingers into the grooves and holes of both ears and also pass the wet thumbs behind the ears

10. Finally, wash both feet to the ankles starting from the right, making sure that water has reached between the toes and all other parts of the feet.

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The importance and virtues of performing the wudu (ablution),
how to do it and what to recite.
Hope to inspire and remind us all
that it is not just a repetitive task but
done correctly with sincere devotion and care,
can reap great benefits!

May Allah guide us all to the straight path - Ameen!

(by : NadiyaNAH)

Ramadan Kareem - Taraweeh

2010-08-10T23:31:00.011+08:00

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The virtues of the Taraweeh Prayer

~ Abu Hurayrah said: Allah's Messenger (peace be upon him) said "He who prays during the night in Ramadan with faith and seeking his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven" (Agreed Upon)

~ The time for Taraweeh prayer is between Isha and Fajr. Generally during Ramadan the taraweeh prayer is prayed after the Isha prayer in the Masjids in congregation.

~ ‘Aa’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) said: The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) used to pray eleven rak’ahs at night, and say the tasleem after each two rak’ahs, and he would pray Witr with one rak’ah. Saheeh, (agreed upon)

~ There is no set limit as to how much Quran is recited in each night of the taraweeh prayers.

The Prophet peace be upon him recitation used to vary, sometimes it would be long, at other times short. Sometimes in every rakah he would recite the equivalent of ‘Yaa ayyuha’l-muzammil, which is twenty aayaat; sometimes he would recite the equivalent of fifty aayaat.

He used to say, “Whoever prays at night and reads one hundred aayaat will not be recorded as one of the negligent.”

According to another hadeeth: “…and reads two hundred aayaat, will be recorded as one of the devout and sincere believers.”

Each day after the 8 rak'ahs of the Taraweeh prayers the witr are also prayed.

Du’aa’ which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) taught to his grandson al-Hasan ibn ‘Ali (may Allah be pleased with him), which is (translation):

(O Allaah, guide me along with those whom You have guided, pardon me along with those whom You have pardoned, be an ally to me along with those whom You are an ally to, and bless for me that which You have bestowed.

Protect me from the evil You have decreed for verily You decree and none can decree over You. For surety, he whom You show allegiance to is never abased and he whom You take an enemy is never honored and mighty.

O our Lord, Blessed and Exalted are You. There is no refuge from You except with You).”

Live broadcast of taraweeh (here)

"When My servants ask about Me, I am indeed close to them. I listen to the prayer of every supplicant, when he calls on Me. Let them also, with a will, listen to My call, and believe in Me, so that they may walk in the right way" (Qur'an 2:186).

Prayers and Du'a videos (here)

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52nd International Quran Reciters

2010-08-04T17:22:00.002+08:00

KUALA LUMPUR, Aug 3 (Bernama)

Egyptian Hani Abdel Aziz Ahmad and Pakistan's Samia Khanan were respectively judged champion in the men and women's category of the 52nd International Quran Reciters Assembly (Tilawah Al-Quran) held at the Putra World Trade Centre, here, tonight.

They each won US$10,000 (about RM31,975) in cash, a trophy, souvenir and certificate of participation which were presented to them by Yang di-Pertuan Agong Tuanku Mizan Zainal Abidin.

Hani scored 91.46 per cent of the marks and Samia, 91.08 per cent.

The theme for the eight-day tilawah from July 27 with 76 participants from 47 countries, was "Strengthening Brotherhood, Empowering the Ummah (Community)".

Last year, there were 66 participants from 43 countries.

Four countries which took part in the tilawah for the first time this year were Kazakhstan, Surinam, Zambia and Djibouti.

Solat : Easy to Learn Salah (For Children)

2010-07-27T22:48:00.003+08:00

Du'a : Save Palestine

2010-06-10T13:03:00.006+08:00

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Du'a for Gaza by Sheikh Rashid Mishary

And So I Bow

2010-04-30T01:21:00.017+08:00

Running in again, the third time today and just in from Math Honors Society she doesn't even stop to catch her breath before jumping into the restroom to make a quick ablution.

Frantically trying to beat time she runs and almost falls down the stairs, stumbling over her feet.

Finally calm and assembled she assumes her normal composure of sincerity and focus.

As she lifts her hands up over her shoulders to symbolically push all material concerns away, she quietly utters three of the most powerful words she has ever known:

"God is Greatest."

Already absorbed in her prayer her body begins to tremble slightly, as if a rush of emotions is building up waiting to break free.

She bends her head slightly to direct her gaze at the ground and the corner of her head-covering falls softly over her elbow.

In a sincere and humble tone she recites verses of the Holy Qur'an, of which she has so persistently worked long and hard to memorize.

She gives herself up to the power of the occasion as she bows down to her Lord, face on floor in a position of the utmost humility.

"Praise be to my Lord the Most High,"

she repeats to herself three times with only the desire to please her Lord.

Asking forgiveness and giving thanks, she stands up again but this time with teary eyes.

She can not help but be overcome with emotions at the remembrance of His infinite mercy and kindness.

She can not help but feel ashamed of all the hurtful things she has said and done and all the ways in which she has misused His gifts to her.

Like the devoted believers of old she prays her prayer as if it is her last.

As if this is her final chance to seek forgiveness, redeem herself, give thanks, and draw herself closer to the Almighty.

Grief stricken and frightened she suddenly realizes how unworthy and unthankful she is, how wasteful and materialistic she has grown.

In such a state she appeals to her Lord,

"Forgive me, educate me, guide me."

Again she recites from the Qur'an and it lifts her spirit and gives her hope;

"If Allah findeth any good in your hearts, He will give you something better than what has been taken from you, and He will forgive you for Allah is Oft-forgiving, Most Merciful. [Al-Anfal (8):70]

Allah hath prepared for them gardens under which rivers flow, to dwell therein: that is the supreme felicity. [Al-Tawba (9):89]"

She pleads her case, "I've always tried my hardest, challenged myself for the best, advocated service to You and your creations, worked to increase my knowledge, and all for You. Please give me the strength, hope, and willpower to persevere."

As her prayer nears an end she again bows down.

A calmness and peace seem to surround her, encircle her rolled up body and rest upon her arched back.

She suddenly feels as if she can do no wrong, as if nothing evil can touch her.

She sits upright again and turns her head to the right and then the left saying "Peace and blessings be unto you" to the angels perched on her shoulders.

Her spirit and mind is renewed and she is ready to work hard, contribute positively, and achieve the best.

She is ready for the challenge and the sacrifice and suddenly her A.P. Calculus project no longer seems so impossible and uninteresting.

-NNU

from MYNAret Newsletter
Muslim Youth of North America

http://www.jannah.org/articles/soibow.html

Hisham Abas ~ Asma ul Husna

The fajr (dawn) prayer

2010-03-22T22:17:00.008+08:00

The fajr (dawn) prayer is amongst the most important acts of worship, being one of the five obligatory prayers.

Unfortunately many have become so used to missing it at its prescribed time which ends at sunrise - have forgotten its position in the religion, and barely feel anything is wrong when waking up in the morning for work or school without having performed the fajr prayer.

Muslims should know the great status of fajr in the sight of Allah. Allah (SWT) says (interpretation of the meaning) "Establish regular prayers at the sun's decline till the darkness of the night, and the recital of the Qurâan in the fajr prayer, for the recital of the fajr is witnessed". (Al-Israa 17:78)

In addition, the Prophet (PBUH) said: "Whoever prays the fajr prayer in congregation, it is as if he (or she) had prayed the whole night long".

[Muslim & Tirmidhi].

The Prophet (PBUH) "The most burdensome prayers for the hypocrites are ishaa and fajr, but if they only knew what they contain, they would come even if they had to crawl."

[Ahmad]

The practical aspect of dealing with the problem includes a number of steps which can be taken in order to get used to praying fajr regularly in congregation:

* Having a sincere intention and being determined (when going to sleep) to get up for fajr;

* Remembering Allaah upon waking up.

Allah's Apostle (PBUH) said, "During your sleep, Satan knots three knots at the back of the head of each of you, and he breathes the following words at each knot, 'The night is long, so keep on sleeping.' If that person wakes up and remembers Allah, then one knot is undone. When he (or she) performs ablution (wudu) the second knot is undone. And when he (she) prays, all the knots are undone, and he (she) gets up in the morning lively and in a good mood, otherwise he (she) gets up dull and gloomy." [Bukhary]

* Sleeping early. According to an authentic Hadeeth, the Prophet (PBUH) used to dislike sleeping before ishaa and talking after it. (The kind of talk that is discouraged in this case, as the commentators explain, is that in which there is no clear benefit.)

* Family members should encourage one another, and likewise roommates sharing the same apartment.

* Avoid eating too much before going to bed. Overeating can cause a deep, heavy sleep.

* Finally, true devotion to Allah is the best thing to motivate a person to get up for prayer, because Allah alone controls all means of help.

May Allah Almighty facilitate this prayer and give guidance to what pleases Him...amiin.

(http://www.islamicteachings.org/forum/five-pillars-of-islam/fajr-prayer-t1934.html)

Ruku'

2009-12-14T07:31:00.001+08:00

Don’t rush through prayer
By Rahla Khan

(excerpt from : http://www.saudigazette.com.sa/index.cfm?method=home.regcon&contentID=2009121456980)

Obligation of Ruku’

The acts of bowing and prostrating in prayer are commanded in the Qur’an and made obligatory upon the believers:

“O you who believe! Bow down and prostrate yourselves and serve your Lord.” (Qur’an, 22:77)

Abu Mas’ud Al-Badri (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The prayer of one who does not straighten his back in his bowing and prostration is not accomplished.”

[Narrated by “the five,’’ [narrators] and Ibn Khuzaimah, Ibn Hibban, at-Tabarani and al-Baihaqi]

Prophet’s manner of performing Ruku’.

In The Prophet’s Prayer Described, the Prophet’s manner of performing Ruku’ is narrated thus:

* “He would place his palms on his knees”, and “would order them (his Companions) to do likewise.”

* “He would put his hands firmly on his knees (as though he were grasping them).”

* “He would space his fingers out”, ordering “the one who prayed badly” likewise, saying: “When you make Ruku’, place your palms on your knees, then space your fingers out, then remain (like that) until every limb takes its (proper) place.”

* “He used to spread himself (i.e., not be in a compact position), and keep his elbows away from his sides.”

* “When he made Ruku’, he would spread his back and make it level, such that if water were poured on it, it (the water) would stay there (i.e., not run off).”

* He also said to “the one who prayed badly”, “When you make Ruku’, put your palms on your knees, spread your back (flat) and hold firm in your Ruku’.”

* “He would neither let his head droop nor raise it (i.e. higher than his back)”, but it would be in between.

* “He used to make his Ruku’, his standing after Ruku’, his Sujood (prostration), and his sitting in between the two Sajdas (prostrations), nearly equal in length.”

(Muslims Offering Prayer in New York ~ www.islamicfinder.org/.../Salaat_in_New_Yo.jpg)

Inner dimensions of Ruku’.

In Ihya Ulum Ad-Din, in the Book of Prayer, Abu Hamid Al-Ghazali (may Allah have mercy upon him) writes, “Ruku’ and Sujud (prostration) are accompanied by a renewed affirmation of the supreme greatness of Allah.

In bowing you renew your submissiveness and humility, striving to refine your inner feeling through a fresh awareness of your own impotence and insignificance before the might and grandeur of your Lord. To confirm this, you seek the aid of your tongue, glorifying your Lord and testifying repeatedly to His supreme majesty, both inwardly and outwardly.”

While researchers today are slowly making the connection between prayer and physical and spiritual health, Ibn Al-Qayyim (may Allah have mercy upon him) wrote about it centuries ago in Za’ad Al-Ma’ad:

“Prayer has an amazing effect on the health of the body and heart, and in strengthening them and expelling harmful toxins from them. No two people have been afflicted with any disability, disease, or other calamity, except that the portion of the one who prays, is less (harmful) and his outcome is better.

Prayer also has an astounding effect on the evils of the Dunya (worldly life), especially when the prayer is performed properly and perfectly, inwardly and outwardly. Nothing keeps the evils of the Dunya at bay and brings on the benefits of it like prayer.

The reason behind this is that prayer is one’s connection to Allah, the Mighty and Majestic. So based on the strength of a person’s relationship with his Lord, the doors of goodness will accordingly be opened up for him, bad things and the reasons for them befalling him will be cut off, and the elements of success granted by His Lord, will begin pouring in…”

Q & A : Praying in the Sacred Mosque

2009-11-26T21:46:00.005+08:00

Rahma - Poland

Question : Passing in Front of a Praying Person in the Sacred Mosque

Date - 01/Jun/2005

Dear scholars, as-salamu `alaykum. Is it permissible to offer prayer in the Sacred Mosque in Makkah while people pass in front of the those who are praying? Jazakum Allah khayran.

Answer :

Wa `alaykum As-Salamu wa Rahmatullahi wa Barakatuh.

In the Name of Allah, Most Gracious, Most Merciful.

All praise and thanks are due to Allah, and peace and blessings be upon His Messenger.

Dear questioner, we would like to thank you for the great confidence you place in us, and we implore Allah, the Almighty to help us serve His cause and render our work for His Sake alone.

It is permissible to offer prayer in the Sacred Mosque in Makkah while the people are passing in front of the praying person and this is one of the special characteristics of the Sacred Mosque.

In this regard, we will cite what Sheikh Sayyed Sabiq states in his well-known book, Fiqh As-Sunnah:

It is permissible to offer prayer in the Sacred Mosque in Makkah while the people, male or female, are passing in front of the worshipper. There is no harm in it, and it is one of the special characteristics of the Sacred Mosque.

Kathir Ibn Kathir Ibn Al-Muttalib bin Wida`ah reported from some of his relatives and from his grandfather that he said: "I saw the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) offering prayer in the Sacred Mosque in the area adjacent to Bani Sahm while people were passing in front of him but he did not place any sutrah (something that a praying person puts in front of him in order to alert people that they should not pass in front of him while praying) in front of him.”

Sufyan Ibn `Uyainah said, "There was no sutrah between him and the Ka`bah." (Abu Dawud, An-Nasa’i, and Ibn Majah)

Tahiyatul Masjid

2009-11-17T21:24:00.007+08:00

This is a NAFL (optional) Salat, a highly recommended prayer consisting of two Raka'ahs and performed when first entering a mosque. It is considered to be a way of greeting the place of worship in order to draw nearer to Allah.

The Prophet of Allah (peace be upon him) used to pray whenever he used to go in the Mosque (Masjid).

The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said:

'If any of you enters the Mosque, let him not sit until he prays two rakats."

[Bukhari & Muslim]

And on the authority of Abu Dhar (Allah be pleased with him) he said,

"I entered the mosque, and there was the Messenger of Allah (Allah bless him and give him peace) sitting alone, so he (peace be upon him) said:

"Oh Abu Dhar, Truly the mosque has a greeting, and indeed its greeting is two rakats, so stand up and pray them."

[Reported by Ibn Hiban in his Sahih]

Solat : "Dedicated to beginners"

2009-11-11T19:22:00.013+08:00

For clearer view, please refer :

(http://www.howdoipray.com/howdoipray/Home/)

Solat Tasbeeh

2009-11-03T22:47:00.007+08:00

It is recorded in Sunan Abi Dawud and other books of hadith that Rasulullah (sallallahu `alayhi wasallam) once said to his uncle Hadrat `Abbas (r.a.) :

"O Abbas!O my uncle! Shall I not give you a gift? Shall I not show you something by means of which Allah Ta`ala will forgive your sins, the first and the last of them, the past and recent, the unintentional and the intentional, the small and huge, the secret and open?"

Rasulullah (sallallahu `alayhi wasallam) then taught him the Solat Tasbeeh.

Furthermore he advised him that it be offered daily, if possible. If not then every Friday or once a month or once a year or at least once in one's life time.

Solat Tasbeehh consists of 4 raka`ahs. It can be performed any time of the day or night except at the makruh times.

The following tasbeeh is recited seventy-five times in each raka`ah totalling 300 in the 4 raka`ah.

(Subhaanallaahi walhamdu lillaahi walaa ilaaha illallaahu wallaahu akbar)

The method of this solat is as follows:

* After beginning the solat by saying Allah-u-Akbar recite the thana ', Sura al-Fatiha and a Sura followed by the above tasbeeh 15 times.

* Then go into Ruku and after reciting the usual tasbeeh for ruku` recite the above tasbeeh 10 times.

* After standing up from ruku` recite the usual Rabbana Lakal Hamd and thereafter recite the tasbeeh 10 times.

* Then go into Sajda and after reciting the usual tasbeeh for sajda recite the above tasbeeh 10 times.

* Then sit up from sajda and recite the tasbeeh 10 times between the two sajdas.

* Thereafter go into sajda again and after reciting the usual tasbeeh for sajda recite the above tasbeeh 10 times.

* Then sit after the 2nd sajda (i.e. before standing up for the second raka`ah) and recite the tasbeeh 10 times.

This adds up to 75 times in one raka`ah.

Do the same for the remaining 4 raka`ah.

[Note : If at night, this solat can be performed with 2 salams - 2 raka'ahs each]

(http://sunnipath.com/)

Tahajjud

2009-10-15T21:24:00.001+08:00

Al-Muzzammil (Surah 73)

In the name of Allah, the Beneficent, the Merciful

"O you wrapped in garments (i.e. Prophet Muhammad SAW)! (1) Stand (to pray) all night, except a little. (2) Half of it, or a little less than that, (3) Or a little more; And recite the Qur'ân (aloud) in a slow, (pleasant tone and) style[] (4) Verily, We shall send down to you a weighty Word (i.e. obligations, laws). (5) Verily, the rising by night (for Tahajjud prayer) is very hard and most potent and good for governing oneself, and most suitable for (understanding) the Word (of Allâh). "(6)

The following acts are recommended for one who wishes to perform the Tahajjud Prayer:

* Upon going to sleep, one should make the intention to perform the Prayers. Abu Ad-Darda' quoted the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) as saying:

“Whoever goes to his bed with the intention of getting up and praying during the night, but, being overcome by sleep, fails to do that, he will have recorded for him what he has intended, and his sleep will be reckoned as a charity (an act of mercy) for him from his Lord.” (An-Nasa'i and Ibn Majah)

* On waking up, it is recommended that one wipes the face, use a toothbrush, and look to the sky and make the supplication which has been reported from the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him).

Abu Hudhaifa reported:

"Whenever the Prophet intended to go to bed, he would recite: (With Your name, O Allah, I die and I live)." And when he woke up from his sleep, he would say: (All the Praises are for Allah Who has made us alive after He made us die (sleep) and unto Him is the Resurrection.)" (Al-Bukhari)

* One should begin with two quick rak`ahs and then one may pray whatever one wishes after that. `A’ishah said:

“When the Prophet prayed during the late-night, he would begin his Prayers with two quick rak`ahs.” (Muslim)

* It is recommended that one wakes up one's family, for Abu Hurairah quoted the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) as saying:

“May Allah bless the man who gets up during the night to pray and wakes up his wife and who, if she refuses to get up, sprinkles water on her face. And may Allah bless the woman who gets up during the night to pray and wakes up her husband and who, if he refuses, sprinkles water on his face.” (Ahmad)

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) also said:

“If a man wakes his wife and prays during the night or they pray two rak`ahs together, they will be recorded among those (men and women) who (constantly) make remembrance of Allah.” (Abu Dawud.)

* If one gets sleepy while performing Tahajjud, one should sleep. This is based on the hadith narrated by `A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her), who quoted Allah’s Messenger as saying:

“When one of you gets up during the night for Prayer and his Qur’anic recital gets mixed up to the extent that he does not know what he says, he should lie down.” (Muslim.)

Tahajjud may be performed in the early part of the night, the middle part of the night, or the latter part of the night, but after the obligatory `Isha’ Prayer (night Prayer).

It is best to delay this Prayer to the last third portion of the night. Abu Hurairah (may Allah be pleased with him) quoted the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) as saying:

“Our Lord descends to the lowest heaven during the last third of the night, inquiring: ‘Who will call on Me so that I may respond to him? Who is asking something of Me so I may give it to him? Who is asking for My forgiveness so I may forgive him?’” (Al-Bukhari)

`Amr ibn `Absah (may Allah be pleased with him) reported that he heard the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) saying:

“The closest that a slave comes to his Lord is during the middle of the latter portion of the night. If you can be among those who remember Allah the Exalted One at that time, then do so.” (At-Tirmidhi)

Tahajjud Prayer does not entail a specific number of rak`ahs that must be performed, nor is there any maximum limit that may be performed. It would be fulfilled even if one prayed just one rak`ah of Witr after `Isha’.

Samurah ibn Jundub (may Allah be pleased with him) said:

“The Messenger of Allah ordered us to pray during the night, a little or a lot, and to make the last of the Prayer the Witr Prayer.” (At-Tabarani and Al-Bazzar)

In Du’a : The Weapon of the Believer by Shaykh Yasir Qadhi (Chapter 7)

1) Allah describes the true believers as those who:

‘…and, in the hours of dawn, they seek forgiveness from their Lord…’ Surah Al-Dhariyat, Ayah 18

The distinction between a believer and one who is just a Muslim is further defined by this act.

2) The doors of Mercy and Forgiveness are open during the last 1/3 of night:

Abu Hurayrah narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:

Our Lord descends every night, during the last third of it, to the skies of this world, and asks: ‘Who is making du’aa to me, so that I can respond to him? Who is asking Me, so that I can give him? Who is asking for My forgiveness, so that I can forgive him?’

(Reported by al-Bukhari and Muslim from Abu Hurayrah)

3) If a person wishes his/her Du’aa to be accepted this is the best time to ask as shown in hadeeth above.

4) Huge incentive for the believer to wake up when everyone else is asleep and remember Allah (Subbhana Wa Ta’ala) privately.

5) Allah favored this time over other times and Allah distinguised this timing so that the worshipper can eagerly anticipate this time and pray earnestly and sincerely; The worshipper should ensure his/her du’aa is more frequent and sincere during these times.

DUA TO ASSIST ONE IN AWAKENING FOR TAHAJJUD

A person remarked to Abdullah bin Abbas [radhiyallahu anhu], "I always intend awakening in the last portion of the night to perform Salaat but sleep overpowers me."

Ibn Abbas [radhiyallahu anhu] replied, "Before sleeping recite from "QUL LAW KAANAL BAHRU MIDADAL..." to the end of Surah Kahf. Allah Ta'ala will waken you at whatever time you intend rising." [Tha'labi-Ma'ariful Quraan vol 5]

قُل لَّوۡ كَانَ ٱلۡبَحۡرُ مِدَادً۬ا لِّكَلِمَـٰتِ رَبِّى لَنَفِدَ ٱلۡبَحۡرُ قَبۡلَ أَن تَنفَدَ كَلِمَـٰتُ رَبِّى وَلَوۡ جِئۡنَا بِمِثۡلِهِۦ مَدَدً۬ا (١٠٩

"Say (O Muhammad SAW to mankind). "If the sea were ink for (writing) the Words of my Lord, surely, the sea would be exhausted before the Words of my Lord would be finished, even if we brought (another sea) like it for its aid." (109)

قُلۡ إِنَّمَآ أَنَا۟ بَشَرٌ۬ مِّثۡلُكُمۡ يُوحَىٰٓ إِلَىَّ أَنَّمَآ إِلَـٰهُكُمۡ إِلَـٰهٌ۬ وَٲحِدٌ۬‌ۖ فَمَن كَانَ يَرۡجُواْ لِقَآءَ رَبِّهِۦ فَلۡيَعۡمَلۡ عَمَلاً۬ صَـٰلِحً۬ا وَلَا يُشۡرِكۡ بِعِبَادَةِ رَبِّهِۦۤ أَحَدَۢا (١١٠)

"Say (O Muhammad SAW): "I am only a man like you. It has been revealed to me that your Ilâh (God) is One Ilâh (God — i.e. Allâh). So whoever hopes for the Meeting[] with his Lord, let him work righteousness and associate none as a partner in the worship of his Lord." (110)

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Narrated Aisha r.a:

Once in the middle of the night Allah's Apostle (p.b.u.h) went out and prayed in the mosque and some men prayed with him. The next morning the people spoke about it and so more people gathered and prayed with him (in the second night). They circulated the news in the morning, and so, on the third night the number of people increased greatly. Allah's Apostle (p.b.u.h) came out and they prayed behind him.

On the fourth night the mosque was overwhelmed by the people till it could not accommodate them. Allah's Apostle came out only for the Fajr prayer and when he finished the prayer, he faced the people and recited "Tashah-hud" (I testify that none has the right to be worshipped but Allah and that Muhammad is His Apostle), and then said,

"Amma ba'du. Verily your presence (in the mosque at night) was not hidden from me, but I was afraid that this prayer (Prayer of Tahajjud) might be made compulsory and you might not be able to carry it out."