Thursday, January 17, 2013

Story of a Bird and Sufyān ath-Thawrī [rahimahullaah]

 
Imām al-Dhahabī mentions the following story in his entry for Sufyān ath-Thawrī:

”ʻAlī b. ʻAbd al-ʻAzīz said, Arim narrated to us saying, I went to Abū Manṣūr to visit him, he said to me, 
‘Sufyān resided in this house, and there was here a nightingale belonging to my son. He (Sufyān) said, ‘Why is this locked up (in a cage)? It should be freed.’ I said, ‘It belongs to my son, and he gives it to you as a gift.’ Sufyān said, ‘No, I will give him a dinar for it.’ He said, ‘He then took it and freed it, and it would go out and return in the evening, and would be at the far end of the house. When Sufyān died, it followed his funeral procession and was flying over his grave. After this on some nights it would go to his grave, and sometimes would spend the night there, and sometimes would return back home. They then found it dead by his grave and it was buried alongside Sufyān.”’

[al-Fawāʼid al-Gharrah, 3/281]

The Benefits of Tawheed

Author: Shaikh Muhammad bin Jameel Zainoo
Source: The Methodology of the Saved Sect (trans. Abu Nasir)
http://www.salafipublications.com/
 
 
When pure tawheed is actualised in the life of an individual or the society it produces the best of results. From its results are the following:
 
1) Liberation of mankind from worship and submission to other than Allaah. The creation cannot create anything, rather they themselves are created. They are not capable of harming nor benefiting their souls. They are not capable of causing death nor giving life nor are they able to resurrect the dead. So tawheed liberates man from every worship, except to his Lord, the One Who created him and then proportioned hini. It liberates his intelligence from deviation and delusions.
 
It liberates his mind from obedience, humility and submission to other than Allaah. It liberates his life from the mastery of the rulers, the soothsayers and those who deem themselves divinely appointed over the slaves of Allaah.
 
Due to this, the leaders of shirk and oppression in the times of ignorance rose up against the call of the Prophets in general and particularly against the call of the Messenger, because of the fact that they understood the meaning of "La ilaaha lila Allaah" to be a universal pronouncement for the liberation of mankind, and the overthrowing of the tyrants from their false thrones, and the elevation of the faces of believers, those who do not prostrate except to Allaah, the Lord of the Worlds.
 
2) The personality remains balanced. Tawheed aids the formation of a balanced personality, the preferred aim and direction of this life, and it unifies and consolidates its purpose. So the personality does not turn except to the only One worthy of worship, and it turns to Him in private and in open and it calls to him in private and in open, and it calls upon Him in ease and in adversity. As opposed to the Mushrik (pagan) who shares his heart between those who are worshipped besides Allaah, at times he turns to the living and at times he turns to the dead, and Yusuf said:
 
Oh my two companions of the prison, are many different lords better, or Allaah, the One, the Irresistible? [ 12:39 ]
 
So, the believer worships One Lord, he knows what is pleasing to Him and what is displeasing to Him, lie stops at whatever pleases Him and his heart becomes calm.
 
As for the Mushrik, lie worships numerous deities, one he takes from here and another he takes from there and he is divided between them and he has no comfort.
 
3) Tawheed is the source of security for the people, because it fills the soul of the individual with peace and satisfaction. He does not fear anyone except Allaah and tawheed blocks the ways to fear of loss in provisions, the soul and the family, fear from mankind, inn, death and other than that from those things which are feared.
 
The believer who worships Allaah alone. does not fear anyone except Him and because of this he feels secure whilst the rest of mankind fear and he feels satisfaction whilst the people are restless. This is the meaning that is indicated in the Qur'aan in His saying:
 
Those who believe and do not mix their belief with dhulm, they are those upon whom is security and they are the rightly guided.[6:82]
 
This security emerges from the innermost depths of the soul and not from any police guard which is the security of this world. As for the security of the Hereafter, then it is greater and more lasting for those who are sincere to Allaah and do not mix their tawheed with shirk, because shirk is a great dhulm.
 
4) Tawheed is the source for the strengthening of the soul, because it gives an individual a strong and formidable mental attitude, by which he fills his soul with hope in Allaah, confidence in Allaah and reliance upon Allaah, pleasure with His Decree, gives him patience upon His Tests and freedom from reliance upon the creation. This individual is firmly established, like the mountains, and when a calamity befalls him he asks his Lord to remove it and not the dead. The Prophet (sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) indicated this in his saying: "When you ask, then ask Allaah and when you seek help, then seek help from Allaah alone. " [Hasan Sahih – Tirmidhi]
 
If Allaah touches you with harm, none can remove it except Him."[ 6:17 ]
 
5) Tawheed is the foundation of brotherhood and equality, because it does not permit following those who take others as lords besides Allaah, since worship is for Allaah alone and worship to Allaah alone must be from all of mankind, and the head of them is Muhammad (sallallaahu alayhi wasallam) His Messenger and His chosen one.

Sunday, January 13, 2013

‘And Live With Them in Kindness’

Compiled and Translated By Abbas Abu Yahya
 
1 -Allaah Ta’ala said:
وَمِنْ آيَاتِهِ أَنْ خَلَقَ لَكُم مِّنْ أَنفُسِكُمْ أَزْوَاجًا لِّتَسْكُنُوا إِلَيْهَا وَجَعَلَ بَيْنَكُم مَّوَدَّةً وَرَحْمَةً
 
<< And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility[1] in them; and He placed between you affection and mercy[2]. >> [Room: 21]

2 -Allaah Ta’ala said:
وَعَاشِرُوهُنَّ بِالْمَعْرُوفِ
<< and live with them in kindness[3]>>[4] [Nisa: 19]

3 – From Abu Hurairah -Radi Allaahu anhu- that Messenger of Allaah -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- said:
 دينار أنفقته في سبيل الله ، ودينار تصدقت به في رقبة ، ودينار تصدقت به على مسكين ، ودينار أنفقته على أهلك . أعظمها أجرا الذي أنفقته على أهلك
 
‘From the Dinar (money) that you spent in the path of Allaah, the Dinar that you spent in freeing a slave, the Dinar that you gave in charity to a needy person, and the Dinar you spent on your family, the one that is the greatest in reward is the one that you spent on your family.’[5]

4 – From Abu Hurairah -Radi Allaahu anhu- that Prophet -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- said:
إن أكمل المؤمنين إيماناً أحسنهم خُلقاً، وخياركم خياركم لنسائكم
 
‘The most complete of the Believers in their Eemaan are those who have the best manners[6], and the best of you[7] are those who are best to their women.’[8]

5 – From ‘Amr bin al-Ahwaas from the Prophet -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- who said:
أَلاَ إِنَّ لَكُمْ عَلَى نِسَائِكُمْ حَقًّا وَلِنِسَائِكُمْ عَلَيْكُمْ حَقًّا
‘Indeed you have rights upon your women and they have rights upon you.’[9]

6 – From Abu Hurairah -Radi Allaahu anhu- who said that the Messenger of Allaah -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- said:
‫لا يَفْرَكْ مُؤْمِنٌ مُؤْمِنَةً إِنْ كَرِهَ مِنْهَا خُلُقًا رَضِيَ مِنْهَا آخَرَ
 ‘A believing man should not hate a believing woman, if he dislikes a mannerism of hers, he will be pleased with another mannerism.’[10]

7 – From Abdullaah bin Zamah -Radi Allaahu anhu- that the Prophet -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- said:
يعمد أحدكم فيجلد امرأته جلد العبد فلعله يضاجعها من أخر يومه
‘None of you should lash your wife[11] like the lashing of a slave, and then perhaps at night he has intercourse with her.’[12]

8 – From Sa’ad bin Abi Waqqas -Radi Allaahu anhu- that the Prophet -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- said:
إِنَّكَ لَنْ تُنْفِقَ نَفَقَةً تَبْتَغِي بِهَا وَجْهَ اللَّهِ إِلا أُجِرْتَ عَلَيْهَا ، حَتَّى فِي اللُّقْمَةِ تَرْفَعُهَا إِلَى فِي امْرَأَتِكَ
 
‘Indeed you do not spend some wealth desiring the Face of Allaah except that you are rewarded for it, even for the food you place in your wife’s mouth.’[13]

9 -  ‘Aeysha -Radi Allaahu anha- said:
ما ضرب صلى الله عليه وسلم بيده خادما قط و لا امرأة

‘The Messenger of Allaah -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- never ever hit[14] a servant, or a woman.’[15]

10 – Ibn Abbas -Radi Allaahu anhu- said:
‘Indeed I love to beautify myself for my wife just like I love that she beautifies herself for me.’[16]

11 – From Abdullaah bin ‘Amr -Radi Allaahu anhu- the Messenger of Allaah -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- said:
كفى بالمرء إثماً أن يضيع من يقوت
‘It is sufficient as a sin upon a man that he does not take responsibility over those he is responsible for.’[17]

12- From Ibn Umar -Radi Allaahu anhu- the Messenger of Allaah said:
إن أعظم الذنوب عند الله رجل تزوج امرأة فلما قضى حاجته منها طلقها وذهب بمهرها ، ورجل استعمل رجلا فذهب بأجرته ، وآخر
يقتل دابة عبثا
 
‘Indeed the greatest of sins to Allaah are that a man marries a woman and when he has satisfied his need from her, he divorces her and goes off with her dowry.  And that a man employs another man and goes off with his salary and that a person kills his riding animal frivolously.’[18]

13- From Mu’aweeyah bin Haydah -Radi Allaahu anhu- who said:
‘I asked the Messenger of Allaah what is the right that the wife has upon one of us?

The Messenger of Allaah -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- said:
أن تطعمها إذا طعمت وتكسوها إذا اكتسيت ولا تضرب الوجه ولا تقبح ولا تهجر إلا في البيت
 
‘That you feed her when you eat, and clothe her when you clothe yourself,[19] and do not hit her on her face and do not say may Allaah deface you,[20] and do not keep away from her except in the home[21].’[22]
 
In another wording from Bahz Hakeem from his father, with the wording: He said: ‘I had said: O Prophet of Allaah, regarding our wives, what should we do and what should we be cautioned from?’

The Messenger said:
حرثك ، إئت حرثك أنى شئت غير أن لا تضرب الوجه ، ولا تقبح ، ولا تهجر إلا في البيت ، وأطعم إذا طعمت ، واكس إذا اكتسيت ، كيف وقد أفضى بعضكم إلى بعض ، ( بما حل عليه)
 
‘She is your tilth, come to your tilth as you please, except that you do not strike her face, nor say may Allaah make you ugly, nor keep away from her except in the house, and feed her when you eat, and clothe her when you clothe yourself, and how can you not since you have gone in unto each other, except with what she has been made permissible for you.’[23]
 
13- From al-Miqdam bin Ma’dee Karib al-Kindi that the Prophet -sallAllaahu alayhi wa sallam- stood amongst the people and praised Allaah and exalted Him and said:
إِنَّ اللَّهَ يُوصِيكُمْ بِالنِّسَاءِ خَيْرًا، إِنَّ اللَّهَ يُوصِيكُمْ بِالنِّسَاءِ خَيْرًا، فَإِنَّهُنَّ أُمَّهَاتُكُمْ وَبَنَاتُكُمْ وَخَالاتُكُمْ، إِنَّ الرَّجُلَ مِنْ أَهْلِ الْكِتَابِ يَتَزَوَّجُ الْمَرْأَةَ وَمَا تُعَلِّقُ يَدَاهَا الْخَيْطَ، فَمَا يَرْغَبُ وَاحِدٌ مِنْهُمَا عَنْ صَاحِبِهِ حَتَّى يَمُوتَا هَرَمًا
 
‘Indeed Allaah advices[24] you in the strongest possible terms to be good to women, indeed Allaah advices you in the strongest possible terms to be good to women, advices you in the strongest possible terms with regards to women, indeed they are your mothers, your daughters, your sisters, your paternal aunts (father’s sisters) and your maternal aunts (mother’s sisters).  Indeed a man from the people of the two books (Jews & Christians) marries a woman and does not hit her, each one of them continues to desire his companion until he dies in old age.’
 
Abu Salmah said I narrated this hadeeth to al-Ala bin Sufyaan al-Ghassanee who said:
‘Indeed it has reached me that from the evil hidden sins which Allaah has made Haraam, which are not clearly mentioned in the Qur’aan, are that a man marries a woman and when his companion becomes old and she has stayed with him for a long time, and has produced all that her womb can, then he divorces her without any reason to do so.’[25]

14 – Shaykh AbdurRahman bin Nasr as-Sa’adi (d. 1376 A.H.) said:
‘Allaah Ta’ala said regarding dealings:

<< And do not forget liberality between yourselves. >> [Baqarah: 227]
 
Which means, make a place for excellence and Ihsaan in your dealings.  Do not take all your rights, rather make things easy and do not make them difficult, and be pardoning in buying and selling, in settling a debt and times of need.  And whoever necessitates upon himself this goodness achieves a lot of good and great good. And Allaah Knows best.’[26]
 
Continue Reading >

Can a Wife of a Deceased Husband Recite Quran on His Behalf?

 
Questioner: Recitation of the Quraan reaches the dead?
 
Al-Albani: If the one reciting the Quraan is the child of the one who has passed away, whether it is the father or mother, then this recitation will benefit.
 
As for other than the children then their recitation will not benefit [anyone] other than their [own] parents as we just mentioned.
 
Thus the wife is excluded [from this category]–but [at the same time] there is no doubt that you, as a wife who has been afflicted with the demise of her husband … [there is no doubt that] it is within your capability to supplicate for him: [that] if he was someone who would do good, that our Lord, the Mighty and Majestic, increases his good deeds; and if he was someone who erred, that our Lord overlook his sins.
 
Always remember him with good and supplicate for him.
 
As for you reciting [the Quraan] and sending the reward for that recitation to the husband, then it is over, his actions have come to an end as I stated in the aforementioned hadith, the conclusion of which was, “… except for three: recurring charity, knowledge that others benefit by, or a righteous son who supplicates for him.”
 
Al-Hudaa wan-Noor, 290.

Sisters be Patient with your Husbands

In the name of Allaah, the Beneficient, Most Merciful. May peace and blessings be upon our Prophet Muhammad, his family, companions and all those who follow them in goodness until the day of Return. As for what follows;
 
Questioner:
”I’ve been with my husband (for a long time) and we’ve been through good times and bad times. We have six boys and four girls together not to mention those whom Allaah took their souls while they were young. However when he gets angry about something pertaining to the worldy-life whether it be in the home or outside of it, he says things to me that would cause ones hair to turn grey (all) without due right. Depsite that, I remain patient and say: “This is my husband and the father of my children and I’ll be rewarded for my patience (with him).”
Nevertheless the question that I wish to ask is that he says while angry: “Three words and you’ll be out the house” and repeats it three times. I do not know what those words (actually) are but it is known that they seperate a man from his wife. (Please) inform me about this mans speech and may Allaah reward you with good.”
 
Sheikh ‘Abdul ‘Azeez ibn Baaz , may Allaah have mercy upon him, says:
 
“We advise you with patience, ihtisaab (seeking reward from Allaah) and supplication for your husband. That Allaah grants him success and guides him so that he will guard his tongue from (saying) offensive words. Supplication is required for both men and women.
Allaah says:
 
“And your Lord said: “Invoke Me, (and ask Me for anything) I will respond to your (invocation).”[40:60]
 
And He says:
“And when My slaves ask you concerning Me, then (answer them), I am indeed near (to them by My Knowledge). I respond to the invocations of the supplicant when he calls on Me (without any mediator or intercessor).”[2:186]
 
And you are appreciated for your patience and forbearance with this man who speaks rudely when he becomes angry.
(You should also) advise him when he is calm. Advise him with politeness and tenderness, not with yelling or the like from that which causes harm because you will suffer the consequences of that.
As for (him saying) “three words and that you’ll be out the house”, then this will not harm you at all as long as he doesn’t say anything. If he says “three words” it means that he’s only bluffing. Meaning straighten up your act or I am going to divorce you. This is the meaning of it however it will not do anything to you and you are not at fault.
 
Source: http://www.binbaz.org.sa/mat/12461
Translated by Abu Fouzaan Qaasim , an American student studying in the Islaamic University of Medinah from Chester,PA.

A Women Serving Her Husband


Explained by Shaykh Fawzan
 
Question:
May Allah give you good noble Shaykh, the questioner says: ‘We hear a lot these days, that the wife is not required to serve her husband as it relates to cooking and washing clothes. Therefore we would like from you a word to explain this affair.
 
Shaykh Fawzan:
The woman now has evolved; she doesn’t take care of her husband. Now if you need her to take care of some of your needs, she doesn’t stay in the house. The husband comes and sits in the house and waits and she doesn’t come (home); or she comes at the last part of the night. Now the women are rebellious. It is from the Sunnah for the woman to serve her husband. The female companions, may Allah be pleased with them, served their husbands, they cooked and took care of the home and they were the female companions, the best women of this nation. Faatima the daughter of Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah are upon him and may Allah be pleased with her; used to carry water on her neck such that the rope left a mark on her neck. She requested from the Messenger that he provide her with a servant and he refused. He refused to provide her with a servant and he ordered her to seek help by remembrance of Allah and seeking forgiveness from Allah; and she was the daughter of Muhammad, peace and blessings of Allah are upon him.

Translated by Rasheed ibn Estes Barbee
http://mtws.posterous.com

Can a woman ask a man to marry her? Answered by Shaykh Zayd Al Madhkhali

Question
Is it permissible for a woman, if she finds an upright man upon the methodology of the pious predecessors, to present herself to him for marriage; what is your advice?
 
Answer (Shaykh Zayd):
 
In reality, seeking a suitable man is something encouraged by the legislation because marital life has importance and it has effects, thus the woman seeking an upright husband is proof of her uprightness.
Therefore this woman, if it is possible for the speech to be between her guardian and the man she hopes will seek her hand in marriage then this is better. She can direct her guardian to handle her affair. If she does not have the chance to speak to her guardian then she can use an elder sister as a go-between, such as the mother or the sister and the like, so they can present this issue and desire (for marriage) in order that she does not miss out on a good man. There is no harm in this.
 
But if what is meant by presenting herself, is by holding a conversation, or by the means which are known today such as showing a picture or exchanging pictures, or a lot of phone calling; then this is clearly detrimental to the people.
 
Thus the point is, her requesting is good but it must done is respectable dignified manner not by the means known today such as the internet and the telephone.
 
And if it happens to be by way of the phone and he speaks to her concerning his desire for marriage then it should be one sentence only. And it is that he proposes to herand that is sufficient. As for getting carried away in conversation then this in not permissible until she becomes his wife.

Translated by Rasheed ibn Estes Barbee
Source : http://mtws.posterous.com

Choosing a Husband

Question: What are the most important matters which should form the basis for a woman to choose a husband, and does refusing a righteous person for worldly reasons bring Allaah's punishment upon her?

Answer: The most important attributes which a woman should seek in one proposing marriage are good character and Deen (Practice of the Religion). As regards wealth and lineage, then these are secondary matters. The most important thing is that the one proposing the marriage should be good in the Deen and in his character - since regarding one possessing Deen and good character, she will not lose out in any respect: if he keeps her, then he will do so in a good manner and if he releases her, he will do so in a good manner. Furthermore, the one possessing Deen and good character will be a blessing for her and her children and she will learn good manners and the Deen from him. 
 
But if the person is one who does not have these attributes then she should avoid him - especially those who are negligent about the prayers, or one who is known to drink intoxicants - and Allaah's refuge is sought... So what is important is that the woman should concentrate on good character and practice of the Deen. As regards lineage, then if it is attainable additionally, then that is more fitting, since Allaah's Messenger (sallallaahu ’alayhi wa sallam) said: If there comes to you one whose Deen and character is pleasing then give [the woman] in marriage to him
 
However if one who is also similar in standing is found then that is better.

Shaikh Ibn Uthaimeen in Fataawal-Mar'ah Vol. 1. p.50
 
 

Choosing a Good Spouse in Marriage

Choosing a Good Spouse in Marriage
By ‘Abdus-Salaam bin ‘Abdillaah As-Sulaymaan

Taken From Tarbiyat-ul- Awlaad fee Daw’-il-Kitaabi was-Sunnah (pg. 18-22)

[From the upcoming Al-Ibaanah publication: "Raising Children in Light of the Qur'aan and Sunnah" by 'Abdus-Salaam As-Sulaymaan. The book was introduced and commended by Shaikh Saalih Al-Fawzaan.]

2. Choosing the Mother (i.e. one’s wife):

If someone wishes to produce ripe fruits, he will indeed search for the land that is most fertile. One of the great aspects of wisdom behind getting married is to produce righteous offspring that will worship Allaah and serve as a provision for their parents. The Prophet said: “Marry women that are loving and fertile for indeed I will outnumber the nations through you.” [Reported by Abu Dawood] [1]

Furthermore, the Prophet clarified the people’s standards when seeking a partner for marriage, saying: “A woman is married for four (reasons): Her wealth, her lineage, her beauty and her religion. So choose the woman with (good) religious qualities, may your hand be covered in dust.”[2]

Allaah says: “Therefore the righteous women are devoutly obedient and guard in the husband’s absence what Allaah orders them to guard.” [Surah An-Nisaa: 34]

The devoutly obedient (Qaanitaat) here refers to those women obey their husbands – by guarding their honor, wealth and lives in their absence.

The Prophet warned about (marrying) a beautiful woman from a bad origin, saying: “Beware of the green manure.” The Companions asked: “What is the green manure?” He said: “A beautiful woman of bad origin (i.e. upbringing).” [Reported by Ad-Daaraqutnee] [3]

On the other hand, he praised a woman with good religious qualities, saying: “Shall I not inform you of the best treasure that a man gathers – A righteous wife.” [Reported by Al-Haakim] [4]
And he said: “Choose for your seeds (a good mother), for indeed breeding is a strategy.” [Reported by Ibn Maajah] [5]

This is from the rights that a child has over his father – that he picks a good mother for him.
A man once came to ‘Umar bin Al-Khattaab complaining about his son being undutiful to him. He had brought his son with him and began blaming him for his disobedience, so the son asked: “Doesn’t a son have a right over his father also?” ‘Umar said: “Of course.” The son said: “Then what is it?” ‘Umar replied: “That his father carefully chooses a mother for him, that he gives him a good name and that he teaches him the Qur’aan.”

At this, the son said: “My father has not done any of these things. As for my mother, she was a black slave woman that used to belong to a Zoroastrian (Majoos). He named me Ju’al and did not teach me even one letter from the Qur’aan.” ‘Umar turned to the man and said: “You came to me to complain about your son being undutiful to you, however, it is you who were undutiful to him before that!”
Abul-Aswad Ad-Du’alee once told his children: “I was good to you when you were children, when you grew up, and also before you were born.” They asked: “And how is it that you were good to us before we were born?” He said: “I chose for you a mother through whom you would not be mistreated.”

Ar-Riyaashee would recite this same theme in the following poetic verses:
“The first good thing I did for you was my choosing (for you)
an honorable woman of noble descent and clear virtue.”


The Wife Searching for a Righteous Husband:
Just as a husband should look for a righteous wife, so too should a woman look to choose a righteous husband. Abu Hurairah reported that the Messenger of Allaah said: “If someone should come to you whose religion and character you are pleased with, marry (your daughter) off to him. If you do not do so, there will be mischief in the land and widespread corruption.” [6]

Based on this, we see that the firm foundation that a potential couple should base their selection of one another should be that of: Religion and Character. This is what will bring about a correct and proper upbringing for children.

On the wedding night when the groom consummates the marriage, it is recommended for him to say: “O Allaah, I ask you for her good and the good that she was molded upon” whilst placing his hand upon her head. He should also pray two rak’aat with her. [7]

Footnotes:

[1] Reported by Abu Dawood (2050) and An-Nasaa’ee (3227) from the narration of Ma’qal bin Yassaar and authenticated by Ibn Hibbaan (4056 and 4057). The hadeeth was also reported by Ahmad in al-Musnad (12613) and Ibn Hibbaan (4028) from the narration of Anas bin Maalik.
[2] Reported by Al-Bukhaaree (5090), Muslim (1466), Abu Dawood (2047), An-Nasaa’ee (3230) and Ahmad in al-Musnad (9521)

[3] Reported by Ad-Daaraqutnee in al-Afraad from the narration of Abu Sa’eed in marfoo’ form. Al-‘Ajaloonee mentioned it in Kashf-ul-Khafaa (1/319, no. 855). What it means is that it is disliked to marry a corrupt woman since a woman with bad roots will affect her child negatively. The basis (for the similitude) is that crops grow upon manure that is placed in a dirty area. So the outward appearance of the crops appears nice but the inner appearance of the manure is vile and rotten. The word diman is the plural of the word dimnah, and that refers to manure (i.e. fertilizer). [4] Reported by Al-Haakim in al-Mustadrak (2/363, no. 3281) from the narration of Ibn ‘Abbaas.

[5] Reported by Ibn Maajah (1968) from the narration of ‘Aa’ishah, may Allaah be pleased with her, with the wording: “Choose (a good mother) for your seeds, marry the suitable ones (among women) and wed (your children) to them.” It is also reported with the wording: “And look into which source you place your child for indeed breeding is a strategy.” This hadeeth was transmitted by Al-Qadaa’ee in Musnad-ush-Shihaab (1/370, no. 638) from the narration of Ibn ‘Umar. Also see Kashf-ul-Khafaa (1/358, no. 960).

[6] Reported by At-Tirmidhee (1085) from the narration of Abu Haatim Al-Muznee, and he said: “This is a hasan ghareeb hadeeth.” Abu Haatim Al-Muznee was a Companion. No other hadeeth is known to have been reported by him on the Prophet except this hadeeth. Abu Dawood also mentioned it in al-Maraaseel (224) but according to him, Abu Haatim Al-Muznee is a Taabi’ee. The hadeeth also has a supporting witness in the hadeeth of Abu Hurairah with the wording: “If someone whose religion and character you are pleased with proposes marriage to you (i.e. your daughter), then marry (her) off to him. If you fail to do so, there will be mischief in the land and widespread corruption.” [Reported by At-Tirmidhee (1084) and Ibn Maajah (1967)]

[7] Reported by Al-Haakim in al-Mustadrak (2/202, no. 2757); ‘Abdullaah bin ‘Amr reported that Allaah’s Messenger said: “If one of you obtains a slave-girl or a wife or a riding beast, he should take hold of her forelock, supplicate for blessings and say: ‘O Allaah, I ask You for her good and the good that she was molded upon. And I seek refuge in You from her evil and the evil that she was molded upon.” Al-Haakim authenticated it and Adh-Dhahabee agreed.

Published by Al-Ibaanah on: April 4, 2007

Saturday, January 12, 2013

Personal 170

Never failure always a lesson are the words I'm going to start living by in'sha'Allaah positive vibes are important and finding supportive people are also important things attributed to having good positive vibes. Alhamdulilah ala kulli haal, positive thinking + trusting in Allaah with all my affairs are just going to keep me happy and making positive moves in my life bithnillah. Its important to always learn from past mistakes made, whether its dealing with people, or getting too close to the wrong crowd/individuals. I'm going to learn from all of these experiences and I actually thank those who I've experienced these situations with because they taught me so much. May Allah sort out all my affairs for me, ameen! truly I can only rely on Allah and alhamdulilah for that because He is Al-Wadud (Most Loving) Al-Wakeel ( The Disposer of Affairs) currently in a happy place in life only the best to come in'sha'Allaah.

Sincerity Towards Allah

by Imâm Ibn Qayyim al-Jawziyyah
Translated by Abu Rumaysah

Allaah says,
 "There is not a single thing except that its depositories and treasures are with Us." [Al-Hijr (15): 21]  

This verse comprises a [great] treasure from the treasures [of the Qur`aan], this being that nothing is sought except from the One Who possesses its depositories and treasures, the One in Whose Hands lie the keys to these treasures. Seeking [things] from anyone else is seeking something from one who does not possess them or possess any authority over them.
The saying of Allaah,
 
 
"And that to your Lord is the final goal." [An-Najm (53): 42]
 

Comprises an immense treasure, this being that every desired objective that is not desired for His sake and is not connected [in any form or fashion] to Him then it is temporary and soon to disappear for its final goal is not with Him. The final goal lies only with the One to Whom all matters find their conclusion, terminating at His creation, Will, Wisdom and Knowledge. Therefore He is the source of every desired matter.
 
Everything that is loved - if it is not loved for His sake then this love is nothing but distress and punishment. Every action that is not performed for His sake then it is wasted and severed. Every heart that does not reach Him is wretched, veiled from achieving its success and happiness.
Therefore Allaah has gathered everything that could be desired from Him in His saying,
 

 
"There is not a single thing except that its depositories and treasures are with Us." [Al-Hijr (15): 21]  
 
 
And He has gathered everything that is done for His sake in His saying,
 
 
"And that to your Lord is the final goal." [An-Najm (53): 42]
 
 
Therefore there is nothing beyond Allaah that deserves to be sought and nothing finds its conclusion with other than Him.

Friday, January 11, 2013

Alhamdulilah!

 
"There is No Looking Back Only Looking Ahead, Alhamdulilah" - Umm Bilal
 

Time Wasting : Bad Bargain

 
In The Name of Allaah, The Most Merciful The Bestower of Mercy
 
Imaam Ibnul Qayyim (rahimahullaah) said:
 
[1] ‘’Time wasting is more serious than death; because time wasting cuts you off from Allaah and the home of the afterlife, whereas death cuts you off from the worldly life and its people.’’ [1]

 [2] ‘’The greatest profit in the worldly life is that you pre-occupy yourself every time with what is more worthy/obligatory in it, and with what is more beneficial for (you) in the hereafter.’’ [2]
 
[3] ‘’How can he who bargains paradise and what it contains with an hour’s desire be a sensible person?! [3]
 
[4] ‘’If knowledge benefitted without action, Allaah (Subhaanahu-Wata-Aalaa) would not have censured the rabbis of the people of the book; and had it been that action benefitted without sincerity, Allaah would not have censured the hypocrites.’’ [4]
 
[5] ‘’The path to Allaah is secluded from the people of doubt and those who follow lowly desires. It is erected for the people of certainty and patience, and they are upon the path similar to distinguishing men of high status: ‘’And We made from among them (Children of Israel), leaders, giving guidance under Our Command, when they were patient and used to believe with certainty in Our Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.). [Soorah As-Sajdah: Ayah:24] [5]
 
 
[6] ‘’The people enter the hell-fire through three doors: (a) The door of those things that resemble the truth but are falsehood, which inherits doubts in the religion of Allaah. (b) The door of lowly desires which inherits the giving of precedence to desires over obedience to (Allaah) and seeking His pleasure. (c) The door of anger which inherits enmity towards (Allaah’s) slaves.’’ [6]

 
And Allaah know best
Source: Al-Fawaaid: [1]pg:59  [2]pg:60 [3] pg: 60 [4]pg;60 [5]pg:91 [6] pg;
Abu Mu-aawiyyah (Abdullaah Al-Gambi) 

Patience Preserves the Health of Hearts and Bodies


Ibn al-Qayyim said in The Prophetic medicine regarding patience

Patience is half of faith; for this is a quality composed of patience and gratitude (shukr). As one of the ancestors (salaf) has said: Faith is in two halves: one half patience, one half gratitude. And the Most High said:

Indeed in that there are signs for each one who is patiently persevering and truly grateful [Surah Ibrahim: 5].

Patience in relation to faith is like the head in relation to the body. It is of three types:

  1. patience concerning the obligations (fard) laid down by Allah, that one should not neglect them;
  2. patience in abstaining from actions forbidden by Him, that one should not commit them;
  3. patience concerning His judgments (qada’) and decrees (qadar), that one should not resent them.

Whoever perfectly fulfills these three degrees has perfected patience. For the pleasure of this world and the next, their blessings, and victory and conquest can only be reached over the bridge of patience, just as no-one reaches Paradise except by crossing over the Path. ‘Umar b. al-Khattab said: We attained the best of life through patience.

If you reflect on the degrees of perfection acquired in the world, you will see that they are all dependent on patience. And if you reflect on imperfection, which one is blamed for possessing, you will see it all stemming from lack of patience. Thus courage and purity, goodness and love of others, all this is the patience of an hour.

Most sicknesses of the body and heart arise simply from lack of patience. And there is naught like patience for preserving the health of hearts, bodies and spirits. For it is the great remedy, the mighty tiryaq, even if it were to contain only the company of Allah

“for Allah is with the patient” [Surah Al-Baqarah:153],

and His affection for them for indeed

“Allah loves those who are patient”[Surah Al-Imran:146],

and His giving victory to His people ‘for victory comes with patience’; and that it is a good for the people of patience,

“And if you show patience, that is indeed the best course for those who are patient” [Surah An-Nahl: 126],

and that it is the cause of prosperity,

“O you who believe! Persevere in patience, vie in perseverance, be ever vigilant, and fear Allah, that perchance you may prosper” [Surah Al-Imran:200].

Personal 169

Sometimes its really hard receiving dawah from individuals because of the actions you've witnessed in them that contradict the advice they've given you, I understand that we all should take the good in what others advise us alhamdulilah but there's nothing but a huge question mark that lingers over our heads when we fall witness to their actions. Please keep it 100 in regards to what ever your doing and in regards to giving advice because most important form in dawah is when you give advice also implement it yourself first. It just bothers me how we quickly advise people yet when the same situation is tested on us and we're oblivious to what is the right thing to do. It saddens me to realize this trait in muslims around me but we have to address our issues in order to become better. Better people, better muslims and better at what we do (giving dawah). This just leaves a dent in the heart of a person who used to take your advice. May Allah forgive us all for our sins and shortcomings, ameen

Greater The Test, Greater The Reward


Allaah says in Surah Al-Hajj (22:11) :

“And among mankind is he who worships Allâh as it were, upon the very edge; if good befalls him, he is content therewith; but if a trial befalls him, when fitnah comes to him, or a hardship befalls him, if something that brings about grief comes his way, if he is tested, if he is put to the test, when sadness comes his way, if a hardship befalls him, what happens? He flips upon his face. He loses both this world and the Hereafter. There is no doubt that this is the clear loss.”

Walhamdulillah. The greater the test, the greater the reward, the greater the hardship the greater the reward, the greater the difficulty, the greater the reward from Allaah (tabarak wa ta’ala). And the Salaf understood this.

Urwah Ibn Zubair, a well known from the Salaf had a problem with his foot. So the doctors decided that they had to cut it off, cut the foot off. When the doctors cut it off he didn’t say anything except these words: O Allaah, for you are Full praise. For if you have taken some, you have left some. And if you have tested, and put through difficulty you have also put in good condition. If you have tested and tried and put through difficulty you have also put good health, good circumstances and good conditions.’The next day his son was riding a horse or mule and fell off of it and died. So they came to Urwah with the information of the death of his son, he didn’t say anything except : O Allaah, for you is full praise. For if you have taken some, you have left some. And if you have tested and tried you have also placed us in good situations and good condition. So when he was asked about this he said: ‘I had 4 limbs (meaning 2 arms and 2 legs) and Allaah took some and left some. ‘I had 4 limbs 2 arms and 2 legs Allaah took o­ne and left me three. I had 7 sons, Allaah (tabrak wa tala) took o­ne and left six. And he gave me good condition, or good situation my whole life up until this time. Then he tested me. Should I not praise Allaah for that? Should I not praise Allaah for that?’

Read the full transcribed lecture here:
The Greater The Hardship The Greater The Reward - Abu Uwais Abdullaah Ali – Transcribed Lecture

Humility & Submission – Shaikh Ibn Baaz


While mentioning what one should and should not do in the Prophet’s Mosque, and near the grave of the Prophet (salallaahu ‘alaihiwasallam), Shaikh ibn Baaz said,

“Similarly, those who, at the time of offering Salaam to the Prophet (salallaahu ‘alaihiwasallam) put their right hand on the left side of their chest: this posture is not lawful at the time of offering Salaam to him (salallaahu ‘alaihiwasallam) or to any ruler or leader, for this posture signifies one’s humility and submission which is valid in the case of Allaah alone.

This point is made by Hafidh Ibn Hajar on the authority of the great ‘Ulama. This point will be clear to anyone who gives attention to it, provided he intends to follow the way of the righteous predecessors [salaf]. However, those who are swayed by prejudice, selfish desires and blind imitation, and those who are biased against the way of the righteous people, Allaah would decide their fate. We seek from Allaah for us and for them guidance, and preference of the truth over everything.”

Similarly, those who face the Prophet’s grave at a distance and move their lips for Salaam or supplication, it also belongs to the category of bid’ah. It is not permissible for a Muslim to invent such things in Faith as they are not permitted by Allaah. By doing such things, he transgresses rather than expressing love for the Prophet (salallaahu ‘alaihiwasallam).

Condemning such practices, Imam Malik said that reform of the later generations will only be in the same manner as of earlier generations. It is common knowledge that what reformed the earlier generations was their observance of the way of of the Prophet (salallaahu ‘alaihiwasallam), and his Rightyly-Guided Caliphs, his companions and successors. Later generations of the Ummah too, would find the right path by adhering close to the Prophet’s way. This alone can reform them. May Allaah grant Muslims the ability to do such things which may ensure their welfare and success both in this world and the hereafter.”

This excerpt is from: Shaikh Ibn Baz’s book Hajj,’Umrah & Ziyarah, In the Light of the Qur`an and the Sunnah, Chapter Seven (An account of Visiting the Prophet’s Mosque), Pg. 182-184.

Personal 168

This is more of a rant then a personal lol, bismillaah there seems to be a huge problem in the communities of the muslimeen in terms of how people act on the web (social media), in person with their close companions and around the community itself. The problem is we are falling short of good characteristics, how we act and handle ourselves altogether. Some of us are so blind in this matter that they don't realize the effects of this is hurting our ummah and communities at large, especially in the practicing community perspective. We need to take heed and fix our characteristics, because my dear brother it doesn't matter how long your beard is or my dear sister it doesn't matter how long you jilbaab/abbaya is, without good manners we are nothing. We don't truly represent Islam if our manners are horrible be it in public or in secret with close friends. We're not fooling anyone but ourselves my dear brothers and sisters. Lets go back to the Sunnah and polish up our manners/characteristics so that it falls in line with what we truly represent and the time of people we are. May Allah forgive us of our shortcomings and make our affairs easy for us, ameen

Tuesday, January 8, 2013

Begin With Yourself

Source : Transcribed from: Gems and Jewels | Compiled by: Abdul-Malik Mujahid | DarusSalam

A man went to Ibn ‘Abbas radiAllaahu ‘anhu and said, “O Ibn ‘Abbas, I want to enjoin people to do good and forbid them from doing evil.” Ibn ‘Abbas said, “And have you reached that level?” He said, “I hope that that is so.” He said, “If you do not fear to be exposed by three verses of Allah’s Book, then do so.” The man asked, “And what are they?” He mentioned this verse:

Enjoin you Al-Birr (piety and righteousness and each and every act of obedience to Allâh) on the people and you forget (to practise it) yourselves.” (Baqarah 2:44)

And then asked, “Have you applied the implications of this verse?” He said, “No.” Ibn ‘Abbas then mentioned the second verse:

O you who believe! Why do you say that which you do not do? Most hateful it is with Allâh that you say that which you do not do. (As-Saff 61:2-3)

After that he asked, “Have you applied the implications of this verse?” He said, “No.” He then mentioned the third verse regarding Shu’aib alayhi salaam:

“I wish not, in contradiction to you, to do that which I forbid you.” (Hud 11:88)

And then he asked, “Have you applied the implications of this verse? He said, “No.” Ibn ‘Abbas said, “Then begin with yourself.”

Cure For Self Amazement

 
Imam Ibnul Qayyim (rahimahullaah) states in Al Fawaa-id that Ibn Sad (rahimahullaah) mentions in At Tabaqaat about Umar Bin Abdul Azeez (rahimahullaah) that:

Whenever he delivered a khutbah on the mimbar, and feared being amazed by himself; he would terminate it (i.e. the khutbah)
And whenever he wrote a letter and feared amazement by way of it; he would tear it.
And he would say: ”O Allaah! I seek refuge in you from the evil of my nafs.’
Source: Al Fawaa-id of Imaam Ibnul Qayyim (rahimahullaah) (page: 225)

Check other articles/audio on this topic Humbleness & Pride

Monday, January 7, 2013

Personal 167

asalamu alaykum warahmatullahi wabaraktuhh, it amazes me how small arguments turn huge in a matter of minutes and can ultimately change our relationship with the person were fighting with. Definitely the work of Shaytaan : and ourselves. We could stop these quarrels before it breaks us and those we love subhanAllaaah I def learned that today, and in a lesson is always answer for what to do better next time, so we have to learn from that. & even though now I have somewhat of a situation on my hands it wont be long before Allaah lets it all heal by His Mercy towards his slaves. I'm not to hold grudges alhamdulilah and that's important but I hate arguing because in the very end it really ends up being about something completely irrelevant to the situation. Honestly humans make mistakes and have to face the consequences for their actions but then again it's all Qadr of Allaah, which is comforting ! So lets stop arguing cause it doesn't make anything better and instead lets just make dua and ask him to forgive us for our shortcomings.

Saturday, January 5, 2013

Proofs, Virtues, Fruits for Al-Walaa` wal-Baraa` (Loving and Hating for Allaah’s Sake)

 

Bismillaah Al-Hamdulillaah wa salatu wa salaamu ‘ala rasulullaah
Amma-ba’d

Love For Allaah’s sake Leads to The Sweetness of Eeman

On the authority of Abu Hurrairah: The Messenger of Allaah (salallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: Whoever would like to taste the sweetness of Eeman, then let him love a person – not loving him except for Allaah’s sake. [Ahmad (2/298), al-Haakim (1/3 and 4/168); Isnaad is 'hasan']

The Messenger of Allaah (salallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: There are three characteristics that if a person has them, he will taste the sweetness of Eeman: that Allaah and His Messenger are more beloved to him than anything else; to love another only for the sake of Allaah; and that he hates to convert to disbelief after Allaah has rescued him from it as he hates to be thrown into the fire. [Bukhaaree, Muslim] In another version, the above-mentioned hadeeth begins with the words: No one will find the sweetness of Eeman until and unless…

Loving and Hating For Allaah’s Sake is The Strongest Handhold of Eeman

On the authority of al-Baraa ibn ‘Aazib (radiallaahu ‘anhu): The Messenger of Allaah (salallaahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said: Awthaq ‘Ural Eeman Al-Hubu fillaah wal-bughdu fillaah (The strongest handhold of Eeman is loving for Allaah’s sake, and hating for Allaah’s sake). [Ahmad (4/286), Ibn Abee Shaybah (no. 110); hasan due to supporting narrations]

Shaikh ‘Abdul-’Aziz ibn ‘Abdullaah ibn Baaz (rahimahullaah), in his work The Authentic Creed And The Invalidators of Islaam, said: Belief in Allaah also necessitates love for His sake, hate for His sake, and making friends and enemies for His sake…”

Loving and Hating is for Allaah’s Sake Leads to Allaah’s Friendship

Ibn ‘Abbaas (radiallaahu ‘anhumma) said: “Whoever loves for the sake of Allaah, and hates for the sake of Allaah, and befriends for the sake of Allaah, and shows enmity for the sake of Allaah, would get Walayatullaah (Allaah’s friendship). Without abiding by this, no one can get the real taste (sweetness) of Eeman though he may have been a frequent offerer of prayer (salat) and fasts. Today, people keep relationship and love only for some wordly reason, but this will not provide them any benefit (on the Day of Judgement).” [Ibn Jarir]

After bringing this hadeeth of Ibn ‘Abbaas in The Chapter “Love for Allaah” in the classical work Kitab at-Tawheed, the author Shaikhul-Islaam Muhammad ibn ‘Abdul-Wahhab (rahimahullaah Ta’aala) mentioned among the issues/benefits of the chapter: “No one can get the friendship of Allaah and relish of Eeman until and unless he possesses four ‘actions’ of the heart: (1) Love for the sake of Allaah; (2) Hate for the sake of Allaah; (3) Friendship for the sake of Allaah; (4) Enmity for the sake of Allaah.” [He also mentioned - among other matters/benefits - that Eeman has a sweetness that is sometimes tasted by a person, and sometimes not.]
 
 
Source: Book Guide to Sound Creed, by Dr. Saalih al-Fawzaan
Taken from http://maktabah-alfawaaid.blogspot.com/2012/04/proofs-virtues-fruits-for-al-walaa-wal.html