So Tired...Have Sabr...As This life is Only Play & Amusement

Bismillaah Alhamdulillaah Wassalatu Wassalamu Ala Rasulillaah

Wa Ba’d [As To What Proceeds]

In this life of poverty, hardship and trials, Abdullah asked his father [Imam Ahmed ibn Hanbal] one day, “Abi, when will we ever relax?” His father, one of the greatest revivers of the Sunnah, a role model for all Muslims looked him in the eye and said, “With the first step we take into Jannah.” Rahimahullah Al-Imam Ahmad! ♥

Once a man saw in his dream, that a lion was chasing him. The man ran to a tree, climbed on to it and sat on a branch. He looked down and saw that the lion was still there waiting for him.
The man then looked to his side where the branch he was sitting on was attached to the tree and saw that two rats were circling around and eating the branch. One rat was black and the other one was white. The branch would fall on the ground very soon.
The man then looked below again with fear and discovered that a big black snake had come and settled directly under him. The snake opened its mouth right under the man so that he will fall into it.
The man then looked up to see if there was anything that he could hold on to. He saw another branch with a honeycomb. Drops of honey were falling from it. The man wanted to taste one of the drops. So, he put his tongue out and tasted one of the fallen drops of honey. The honey was amazing in taste. So, he wanted to taste another drop. As he did, he got lost into the sweetness of the honey.
Meanwhile, he forgot about the two rats eating his branch away, the lion on the ground and the snake that is sitting right under him. After a while, he woke up from his sleep.
To get the meaning behind this dream, the man went to a a pious scholar of Islam. The scholar said “The lion you saw is your death. It always chases you and goes where ever you go. The two rats, are the night and the day. Black one is the night and the white one is the day. They circle around, coming one after another, to eat your time as they take you closer to death. The big black snake with a dark mouth is your grave. It’s there, just waiting for you to fall into it. The honeycomb is this world and the sweet honey is the luxuries of this world. We like to taste a drop of the luxuries of this world but it’s very sweet. Then we taste another drop and yet another. Meanwhile, we get lost into it and we forget about our time, we forget about our death and we forget about our graves.”

“Know that the life of this world is only play and amusement, pomp and mutual boasting among you, and rivalry in respect of wealth and children. (It is) as the likeness of vegetation after rain, thereof the growth is pleasing to the tiller; afterwards it dries up and you see it turning yellow; then it becomes straw. But in the Hereafter (there is) a severe torment (for the disbelievers ___evildoers), and (there is) forgiveness from Allaah and (His) Good Pleasure (for the believers __ good‑doers). And the life of this world is only a deceiving enjoyment”

[al-Hadeed 57:20]

The 7 Under Allahs Shade

There are seven whom Allaah will shade in His Shade on the Day when there is no shade except His Shade

The Prophet said:

There are seven whom Allaah will shade in His Shade on the Day when there is no shade except His Shade: a just ruler; a youth who grew up in the worship of Allaah, the Mighty and Majestic; a man whose heart is attached to the mosques; two men who love each other for Allaah's sake, meeting for that and parting upon that; a man who is called by a woman of beauty and position [for illegal intercourse], but be says: 'I fear Allaah', a man who gives in charity and hides it, such that his left hand does not know what his right hand gives in charity; and a man who remembered Allaah in private and so his eyes shed tears.'

Narrated by Abu Hurairah & collected in Saheeh al-Bukhari (english trans.) vol.1, p.356, no.629 & Saheeh Muslim (english trans.) vol.2, p.493, no.2248

In this beautiful Hadeeth, the Prophet spoke about small acts of worship which result in such a huge reward: shade on the Day when there will be no shade except His Shade [1]. This may not seem like much at first but then reflect upon the following Hadeeth:

'On the Day of Resurrection, the sun would draw so close to the people that there would be left a distance of only one mile. The people will be submerged in perspiration according to their deeds, some up to their ankles, some up to their knees, some up to the waist and some would have the bridle of perspiration and, while saying this, the Messenger of Allaah put his hand towards his mouth.'

Narrated by al Miqdaad ibn Aswad & collected in Saheeh Muslim (eng. trans) vol.4, p.1487-8, no. 6852}.

And in another Hadeeth, some will be submerged in sweat

'seventy arm-lengths in the earth.'

Narrated by Abu Hurairah and collected in Saheeh al-Bukhari (eng. trans.) vol.8, p.353, no.539) and Muslim (eng. trans.) vol.4, p.l487, no.6851

So who would want more then, on this Day, than to be under the Shade and protection of Allaah Azza wa Jal

Let us examine now the characteristics and virtues of these seven categories of people who will be worthy of such an exalted position on the Day of Gathering.

1. 'A Just Ruler...'

The concept of Justice in Islaam is very important and it is something which the Muslim - Ruler and the ruled - must apply in all matters without exception. Justice means to give each the right he deserves: Muslim or non-Muslim, relative or stranger, friend or enemy. Allaah says:

'...And do not let hatred cause you to act unjustly, that is nearer to piety

[Soorah al-Maa'idah (5):8].

Unfortunately, even if we admit this in theory, we quickly forget it in practice. So we find that when we speak about our friends and loved ones, we praise them beyond reason and when we speak about those whom we hold difference with, we can find no good in them and we just capitalise on their bad points. This is far removed from the justice which Allaah loves and gives great reward for, as mentioned in the following Hadeeth:

'The doers of justice will be on thrones of light at Allaah's Right Hand - and both of Allaah's Hands are Right Hands"

- those who were just in their Ruling, with their families and in all that over which they were given authority [2].

The Prophet assigning to Abdullah ibn Mas'ud the open spaces in Medina between the dwellings and palm gardens of the Ansar, and when the Banu Abd ibn Zuhrah said,

"Remove from us the son of Umm Abd (Ibn Mas'ud),"

replying,

"Why then did Allah send me. Allah does not bless a people among whom a weak man is not given his right."

Baghawi transmitted it in Sharh as-Sunnah. Sunan at-Tirmidhi no.3003

The concept of justice is most important for the Ruler, since he is in charge of his people and the primary disposer of justice in the land. For this reason, the Ruler is given special mention as one of the seven who will be honoured with Allaah's Shade.

2. 'A youth who grew up in the worship of Allaah...'

The great scholar, Ayyoob as-Sakhtiyaanee (d.131H) said,

'From the success of a youth is that Allaah guides him to a scholar of the Sunnah.'

Hasan - Reported in Sharh Usoolis-Sunnah of al-Laalikaa'ee (no.30).

Indeed, it is a great blessing from Allaah for a youth h be guided towards worship and be befriended by the righteous, since it is in youth that a person is most vulnerable to the temptations of life and liable to drift away from the Islaamic Path. This becomes apparent when we look at society around us and we see that most of the worldly distractions, such as music, games, clubs, fashion etc. are all specifically targeted at the young. 'You're only young once!' they are told, which is why many Muslims nowadays waste their youth thinking that they will pray, wear hijaab and go on Hajj, etc. when they are old, as if they have a guarantee of longevity from Allaah! How well we would do to heed the Prophet's advice when he said:

'Take benefit of five before five: your youth before your old age, your health before your sickness, your wealth before your poverty, your free time before you are preoccupied and your life before your death.'

Saheeh - Narrated by Ibn Abbaas & collected in al-Haakim & others. Authenticated by Shaykh 'Alee ibn 'Abdul Hameed in Forty Hadeeth of the Call and the Caller.

3. 'A man whose heart is attached to the mosques...'

There is great encouragement in the Sunnah for men to pray in the mosques and the reward associated with it is tremendous [3]. Not only does it make the person eligible for Allaah's Shade on the day of Judgement, but,

'he does not take a step [towards the mosque except that because of it, he is raised by one rank and one sin is removed from him. Then when he prays, the Angels do not cease supplicating for him [for] as long as he remains at his place of Prayer [sayings]: O Allaah send blessings upon him, O Allaah have mercy upon him...'

Narrated by Abu Hurairah & collected in Saheeh al-Bukhari (eng. trans.) vol. 1 p.352 no.620).

It must be emphasised here however, that all the Hadeeth encouraging the men to be attached to the mosques are not intended to lead one to the conclusion that Islaam is a Religion which should be confined to the mosques, as many people imagine. Nonetheless, the mosque should be at the heart of the Muslim community, and the role of those in authority of the mosques is vital here. They are the ones mainly responsible for making the mosque a welcome refuge for the Muslims, rather than an arena for politics and power struggles as many seem to have become these days. And we seek Allaah's refuge from this!

4. 'Two men who love each other for Allaah's sake, meeting for that and parting upon that....'

Having mutual love for the sake of Allaah is one of the great doors leading to the good of the Hereafter and a cause of tasting the sweetness of Eemaan in this world. Loving one another for Allaah's sake means that the Muslim does not love another except for the correctness of his Deen. So it does not matter what the person looks like, what he wears, how rich or poor he is, where he comes from, or what the colour of his skin is - perhaps you dislike everything about him, but you love him for his Eemaan: this is loving for Allaah's sake.

'Allaah, the Mighty and Magnificent says: 'Those who have mutual love for the sake of My Glory will have pillars of light and will be envied the Prophets and martyrs.'

Saheeh - Collected in Sunan at-Tirmidhee & Musnad Ahmad (5/336-7).

SubhanAllaah! Imagine being envied by Allaah's chosen Messengers and those who were slain in His Path! Such is the reward of those who love one another for Allaah's sake.

5. 'A man who is called by a woman of beauty and position but he says: 'I fear Allaah...'

This world is full of temptations which lead to burning in the Fire and amongst them is that which comes from women. Many a man has led his soul into destruction on account of the lure of a woman which is why the Prophet warned his Ummah specifically about this. He said,

'The world is sweet and green and verily Allaah is going to install you as successors upon it in order to see how you act. So avoid the allurement of women: verily the first trial for the Children of Israa'eel was caused by women.'

Narrated by Aboo Sa'eed al-Khudree & collected in Saheeh Muslim (eng. trans.) vol.4, p.1432, no.6606

The most important provision which we need to protect ourselves from this and all other temptations in life is the fear (khawf) of Allaah. This fact is alluded to in the following Qur'aanic Aayah:

'And as for him who feared standing before his Lord and restrained himself from impure evil desires, verily Paradise will be his abode.'

[Soorah an- Naazi'aat (79):40 1].

6. 'A man who gives in charity and hides it, such that his left hand does not know what his right hand gives in charity...'

This describes the type of person who goes to great lengths to protect himself from ar-Riyaa. Ar-Riyaa means to do deeds in order to earn the praise and recognition of people. This sin destroys all the benefits that lie in righteous deeds and brings on a serious punishment for the one who commits it. It is particularly dangerous because it is in man's nature to desire and enjoy the praise of others. Thus, great care has to be token to ensure that one's intentions begin and remain pure whenever good actions (such as charity) are being done. Not like what we see today where we have mosque notice boards announcing who gave what to whom, why and when! Allaah warns:

'O you who believe! Do not render vain your charity by reminders of your generosity or by injury, like him who spends his wealth to be seen of men and he does not believe in Allaah nor in the Last Day.'

[al-Baqarah (2):264]. May Allaah preserve us from this.

7. '...A man who remembered Allaah in private and so his eyes shed tears.'

Our noble Prophet informed us:

'If you knew what l knew, you would laugh little and weep much.'

Narrated by Aboo Hurairah and Anas & collected in Saheeh al-Bukhari (eng. trans.) vol.8, p.326-327, nos.492 and 493

Crying is not a sissy' thing to do. The Prophet, who was the best of all creation, would weep as would all of his Companions. Tears are a genuine expression of fear of Allaah's Punishment and of our sincere love and awe of Him. But how often do we remember Allaah in seclusion and are then moved to tears? How much do we laugh and how little do we weep? The Prophet said,

'There is nothing more beloved to Allaah than two drops and two marks: A tear shed due to fear of Allaah, and a drop of blood spilled in the path of Allaah. And as for the two marks, then a mark caused in the path of Allaah, and a mark caused by fulfilling one of the duties made obligatory by Allaah..

Hasan - collected by at-Tirmidhee and al-Mishkaat (3837)

Alhamdulillaah, through these seven types of people mentioned in the Hadeeth, we have been given clear signposts of the way to attain Allaah's pleasure and satisfaction. So dear brothers and sisters in Eemaan, devote yourself to being one amongst those seven, for indeed fortunate will be those who are granted Allaah's Shade on the Day when there will be no shade but His.

Amin.

Tafseer of Surah ad-Dhaariyaat Ayaat 20-23

وَفِى ٱلۡأَرۡضِ ءَايَـٰتٌ۬ لِّلۡمُوقِنِينَ (٢٠) وَفِىٓ أَنفُسِكُمۡ‌ۚ أَفَلَا تُبۡصِرُونَ (٢١) وَفِى ٱلسَّمَآءِ رِزۡقُكُمۡ وَمَا تُوعَدُونَ
(٢٢)

SubhanAllah, Tafseer of Surah ad-Dhaariyaat Ayaat 20-23 from tafseer of Ibn Katheer

Allah the Exalted and the Blessed said:

And on the earth are signs for those who have faith with certainty'

Allah says that there are signs on earth that testify to the might of the Creator and His boundless ability. These signs include what Allah placed on the earth, the various plants, animals, valleys, mountains, deserts, rivers and oceans. He also created mankind with different languages, colors, intentions and abilities, and a variety among them, differences in the power of understanding and comprehension, their deeds, and ultimately earning happiness or misery. Allah put every organ in their bodies in its rightful place where they most need it to be. So He said؛

'And also in yourselves. Will you not then see'

Qatadah commented, "He who thinks about his own creation will realize that he was created with flexible joints so that it is easy for him to perform acts of worship.''Allah the Exalted said next,

'And in the heaven is your provision'

meaning, rain,

'and that which you are promised'

meaning Paradise. This was said by Ibn `Abbas, Mujahid and several others.Allah said:

'Then by the Lord of the heaven and the earth, it is the truth, just as you can speak'

Allah is swearing by His honorable Self, all of the matters of the Judgement, Resurrection, and Recompense that they have been promised shall certainly occur. Therefore, it is the truth, there being no doubt about it, so do not doubt its coming, just as you do not doubt that you can speak When he would talk to one of his friends, Mu`adh used to say: "What I am saying is as true as your being here.''

Tafseer of Surah ad-Dhaariyaat Ayaat 20-23 from tafseer of Ibn Katheer

Reflection of Oneself

Abu Hurayra (RA) said, "A believer is the mirror of his brother. When he sees a fault in it, he should correct it." Bukhari

Learn, Practice and Teach the meaning of this verse

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

Narrated Abu Sa'id Al-Khudri and Abu Huraira:
The Prophet said, "No fatigue, nor disease, nor sorrow, nor sadness, nor hurt, nor distress befalls a Muslim, even if it were the prick he receives from a thorn, but that Allah expiates some of his sins for that." Sahih Bukhari Volume 7, Book 70, Number 545





"And when the prayer has been concluded, disperse within the land and seek from the bounty of Allah, and remember Allah often that you may succeed."

The Holy Quran (62:10)









"Our Lord! Punish us not if we forget or fall into error, our Lord! Lay not on us a burden like that which You did lay on those before us (Jews and Christians); our Lord! Put not on us a burden greater than we have strength to bear."

(Quran 2:286)

The Benefits of Sending Salaams

Abu Hurairah, radhi Allaahu anhu, reported that a man passed by the Prophet, sall'Allaahu alaihi wa salaam, as he was sitting in a group. The man said,

"Peace be upon you."

[As Salaamu Alaikum].
The Prophet said,

"He will have [the equivalen of] ten good deeds [for that]. Another man passed by and said, "Peace be upon you, and the mercy of Allaah [As Salaamu Alaikum wa Rahmaatullaahi]."

The Prophet said,

"Twenty good deeds."

Anothe man passed by and said,

"Peace be upon you, and the mercy of Allaah, and His blessings [As Salaamu Alaikum wa Rahmaatullaahi wa Barakatuhu]."

The Prophet said,

"Thirty good deeds."

Then, one of those present in the gathering stood up to leave but did not offer greetings. The Prophet of Allaah, sall'Allaahu alaihi wa salaam, said,

"Your friend nearly forgot something. Whenever someone comes into a gathering, let him offer greetings. Then, if he wants to sit, let him sit. When he leaves, let him offer greetings, for the first is no more entitled to greetings than the last."

al Bukhaaree, Nasa'i, and Ibn Hibban.

Excellence of Frequent Remembrance of Allah

Abdullah bin Busr (ra) reported Allah(swt) enjoined the believers to always remember Him and He praised them for doing so as Allah(swt) said:

O you who believe! Remember Allah with much remembrance. And glorify His Praises morning and afternoon [the early morning (Fajr) and 'Asr prayers].

[Quran Surat Al-'Aĥzāb 33:41, 42)that one of the Companions said:

"O Messenger of Allah! There are many ordinance of Islam for me. So tell me something by which I may hold tight. He (saw) said, "Your tongue should always be busy remembering Allah"

Imam Ahmad 4/188 190 At Tirmidy 3375 Ibm Majah 3793

Last Two Ayat of Surat Al-Baqarah: Tafsir

The Significance and Tafsir of the Last Two Ayat of Surat Al-Baqarah

Tafsir Ibn Kathir

The Messenger (Muhammad ) believes in what has been sent down to him from his Lord, and (so do) the believers. Each one believes in Allâh, His Angels, His Books, and His Messengers. They say,

“We make no distinction between one another of His Messengers” – and they say, “We hear, and we obey. (We seek) Your Forgiveness, our Lord, and to You is the return (of all).”

(Al-Baqarah 2:285)

Allâh burdens not a person beyond his scope. He gets reward for that (good) which he has earned, and he is punished for that (evil) which he has earned.

“Our Lord! Punish us not if we forget or fall into error, our Lord! Lay not on us a burden like that which You did lay on those before us (Jews and Christians); our Lord! Put not on us a burden greater than we have strength to bear. Pardon us and grant us Forgiveness. Have mercy on us. You are our Maulâ (Patron, Suppor-ter and Protector, etc.) and give us victory over the disbelieving people.”

(Al-Baqarah 2:286)


The Virtue of These Ayah
From Ibn ‘Abbas ” who said:

“While Jibra’eel (Gibrael) ” `May Peace be upon him’ was sitting with the Prophet !, he heard the opening of a gate above him. So he raised his head and said: `This is a gate from the shies that has opened today, which has never opened before this day.’ So an angel descended from it (the gate). So he Jibra’eel ” said: “This is an angel that has descended to the earth, which has never descended except today. He gave Salam and said: ‘Receive glad tidings [Oh Muhammad ! with two lights which have been given to you, that have never been given to a Prophet before you: The Opening of the Book (i.e. Surat Al- Fatihah) and the end of Surat Al-Baqarah. Never do you read a letter from either of the two (Surahs) except that you are given it.( Which means that you are given its reward (i.e. the reward of recitation))

(Reported by Muslim) (Taken from Mukhtasar Sahih Muslim with Shaykh AI-Albani's editing, p.553, Hadith no. 2094.)


Tafsir Ibn Kathir

Allah said,

(Each one believes in Allah, His Angels, His Books, and His Messengers. (They say,) "We make no distinction between one another of His Messengers.'')

Therefore, each of the believers believes that Allah is the One and Only and the Sustainer, there is no deity worthy of worship except Him and there is no Lord except Him. The believers also believe in all Allah's Prophets and Messengers, in the Books that were revealed from heaven to the Messengers and Prophets, who are indeed the servants of Allah. Further, the believers do not differentiate between any of the Prophets, such as, believing in some of them and rejecting others. Rather, all of Allah's Prophets and Messengers are, to the believers, truthful, righteous, and they were each guided to the path of righteousness, even when some of them bring what abrogates the Law of some others by Allah's leave. Later on, the Law of Muhammad, the Final Prophet and Messenger from Allah, abrogated all the laws of the Prophets before him. So the Last Hour will commence while Muhammad's Law remains the only valid Law, and all the while a group of his Ummah will always be on the path of truth, apparent and dominant. Allah's statement,

(And they say, "We hear, and we obey'') means, we heard Your statement, O our Lord, comprehended and implemented it, and adhered to its implications.

((We seek) Your forgiveness, our Lord) contains a plea and supplication for Allah's forgiveness, mercy and kindness.

Allah's statement, (Allah burdens not a person beyond his scope) means, Allah does not ask a soul what is beyond its ability. This only demonstrates Allah's kindness, compassion and generosity towards His creation. This Ayah is the Ayah that abrogated the Ayah that worried the Companions, that is, Allah's statement,

(And whether you disclose what is in yourselves or conceal it, Allah will call you to account for it.)

This indicates that although Allah will question His servants and judge them, He will only punish for what one is able to protect himself from. As for what one cannot protect himself from, such as what one says to himself - or passing thoughts - they will not be punished for that. We should state here that to dislike the evil thoughts that cross one's mind is a part of faith. Allah said next,

(He gets reward for that which he has earned) of good,

(And he is punished for that which he has earned) of evil, that is, concerning the acts that one is responsible for.

Allah then said, [mentioning what the believers said] while directing His servants to supplicate to Him, all the while promising them that He will answer their supplication:

(“Our Lord! Push us not if we forget or fall into error,”) meaning, “If we forgot an obligation or fell into a prohibition, or made an error while ignorant of its ruling.” We mentioned the Hadith by Abu Hurayrah, that Muslim collected, wherein Allah said, “I shall (accept your supplication).” There is also the Hadith by Ibn `Abbas that Allah said, “I did (accept your supplication).”

(Our Lord! Lay not on us a burden like that which You did lay on those before us (Jews and Christians),) means, “Even if we were able to perform them, do not require us to perform the difficult deeds as You required the previous nations before us, such as the burdens that were placed on them. You sent Your Prophet Muhammad , the Prophet of mercy, to abrogate these burdens through the Law that You revealed to him, the Hanifi (Islamic Monotheism), easy religion.” Muslim recorded that Abu Hurayrah said that the Messenger of Allah said that Allah said, “I shall (accept your supplication).” Ibn `Abbas narrated that the Messenger of Allah said that Allah said, “I did (accept your supplication).”

There is the Hadith recorded through various chains of narration that the Messenger of Allah said,

(I was sent with the easy Hanifiyyah way.)

(Our Lord! Put not on us a burden greater than we have strength to bear) of obligations, hardships and afflictions, do not make us bear what we cannot bear of this.

(Our Lord! Put not on us a burden greater than we have strength to bear.)

We mentioned that Allah said, “I shall (accept your supplication)’‘ in one narration, and, “I did (accept your supplication),” in another narration.

(Pardon us) meaning, between us and You regarding what You know of our shortcomings and errors.

(And grant us forgiveness) concerning what is between us and Your servants. So do not expose our errors and evil deeds to them.

(Have mercy on us) in what will come thereafter. Therefore, do not allow us to fall into another error. They say that those who commit error need three things: Allah’s forgiveness for what is between Him and them, that He conceals these errors from His other servants, and thus does not expose them before the servants, and that He grants them immunity from further error.” We mentioned before that Allah answered these pleas, “I shall,” in one narration and, “I did,” in another narration.

(You are our Mawla) meaning, You are our supporter and helper, our trust is in You, You are sought for each and every type of help and our total reliance is on You. There is no power or strength except from You.

(And give us victory over the disbelieving people) those who rejected Your religion, denied Your Oneness, refused the Message of Your Prophet , worshipped other than You and associated others in Your worship. Give us victory and make us prevail above them in this and the Hereafter. Allah said, “I shall,” in one narration, and, “I did,” in the Hadith that Muslim collected from Ibn `Abbas.

Further, Ibn Jarir recorded that Abu Ishaq said that whenever Mu`adh would finish reciting this Surah,

(And give us victory over the disbelieving people), he would say “Amin.”

Verily, After Hardship Comes Ease

Posted by: KING-slave of ALLAH ! on: April 27, 2010

At a time in which the Muslims are beset with trials from every periphery, it is a time when Muslims should continue being Muslims, only better Muslims.

I would say to my dear brothers and sisters in Islam “don’t be Sad”; if you are on the true religion – believing in One God and all the Messengers sent to mankind, then don’t be sad.

Allah says in Quran:

“…Bear with patience whatever befalls you….” (Qur’an 31:17) and “Be not sad, surely Allah is with us.”

(Qur’an 9:40)

Our Prophet (pbuh) said:

“Verily, if Allah loves a people, He makes them go through trials. Whoever is satisfied, for him is contentment, and whoever is angry upon him is wrath.”

[Tirmidhi]

Being sad is not encouraged in Islam

“So do not become weak, nor be sad…”

(Qur’an 3:139)

“And grieve not over them, and be not distressed because of what they plot.”

(Qur’an 16:127)

Sadness prevents one from action instead of compelling one towards it. The heart does not benefit through grief. The most beloved thing to the devil is to hinder the worshipper in the path of Allah. The Muslim must repel sadness and fight in any way that is permissible in Islam.

Allah is sufficient for us

“Allah is sufficient for us, and He is the best Disposer of affairs. So they returned with Grace and Bounty from Allah. No harm touched them; and they followed the good Pleasure of Allah. And Allah is the owner of Great Bounty.”

(Qur’an 3:173-174)

“And put your trust in Allah if you are believers indeed…”

(Qur’an 5:23)

“O you who believe! Seek help in patience and the prayer…”

(Qur’an 2:153)

By leaving your affairs to Allah, by depending on Him, by trusting in His promise, by being pleased with His decree, by thinking favourably of Him, and by waiting patiently for His help, you reap some of the greater fruits of faith. When you incorporate these qualities, you will be at peace concerning the future, because you will depend on your Lord for everything. As a result, you will find care, help, protection and victory.

Pre-ordainment

“No calamity befalls on earth or in yourselves but is inscribed in the Book of Decrees – before We bring it into existence.”

(Qur’an 57:22)

The pen has dried, and the pages have been lifted: all events shall come to pass have already been written. Whatever has befallen you was not meant to escape you, and whatever has escaped you was not meant to befall you: if this belief were to be firmly ingrained in your heart, then all hardships and difficulty would become ease and comfort.

The Prophet (pbuh) said,

“Whoever Allah wishes good for, He inflicts him (with hardship).”

[Bukhari]

For those who are afflicted with disaster, glad tidings await them: so remain patient and happy with your Lord.

“He cannot be questioned as to what He does, while they will be questioned.”

(Qur’an 21:23)

“Verily, with hardship there is relief”

(Qur’an 94:6)

“Perhaps Allah may bring victory or a decision according to His Will.”

(Qur’an 5:52)

Prophet Ibrahim (‘alayhissalam) did not feel its heat because of the help he received from Allah.

“We (Allah) said : O’ fire! Be you coolness and safety for Ibrahim.”

(Qur’an 21:69)

The sea would not drown Prophet Moses (‘alayhissalaam) because he uttered in confident, strong and truthful manner:

“Nay verily! With me is my Lord, He will guide me.”

(Qur’an 26:62)

And the Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said to ‘Abdullah bin ‘Abbas (radiyallahu ‘anhu):

“..Be mindful of Allah, you will find Him before you. Get to know Allah in prosperity and He will know you in adversity… And know that victory comes with patience, relief with affliction, and ease with hardship.”

[Tirmidhi]

Accept life as it is

If you read the Qur’an you will see that all the Prophets went through trials and tribulations. Life is a test so let us learn from the best examples of our Prophets.

“Or think you that you will enter Paradise without such (trials) as came to those who passed away before you? They were afflicted with severe poverty, ailments and were shaken.”

(Qur’an 2:214)

We should know that if we are pleased with our Lord, He will be pleased with us. And if you are pleased with your Lord no matter what the situation is, then you will find that you have earned your Lord’s pleasure. On the other hand, there are hypocrites whom Allah rejects their deeds. They are displeased with what Allah sends down and they hate seeking His pleasure; thus their deeds are performed in vain.

Your recompense is with Allah

When Allah, the Exalted takes something away from you, He compensates it with something better, but only if you are patient and seek His reward.

Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said,

“Whoever loses a loved one from the people of this world and then seeks recompense with his Lord, will be compensated with Paradise.”

Those who are in this world and are close to Allah will be raised in the highest of heaven:

“Peace be upon you, because you peresevered in patience! Excellent indeed is the final home!”

(Qur’an 13:24)

Truly, the life of this world is short and its treasures are few. O’ afflicted ones, if you are patient you lose nothing; and though you may not perceive it, you are profiting.

Extract honey but do not break the hive

“Repel (the evil) with one which is better, then verily! He, between whom and you there was enmity (will become) as though he was a close friend.”

(Qur’an 41:34)

“….and harm them not. And put your trust in Allah.”

(Qur’an 33:48)

Prophet Muhammad (sallallahu ‘alayhi wa sallam) said,

“Verily, Allah ordered me to keep relations with those that cut off, forgive the ones who does an injustice with me, and to give to those who withhold from me.”

“Those who repress anger, and who pardon men; verily, Allah loves the good-doers.”

(Qur’an 3-134)

Remembrance of Allah

“Verily, in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find rest.”

(Qur’an 13:28)

“Therefore remember Me and I will remember you…”

(Qur’an 2:152)

We should not be surprised when we hear that people who remember Allah are at peace. What is truly surprising is how the negligent and unmindful survive without remembering Him.

Allah says in the Qur’an,

“They are dead, lifeless and they know not when they will be raised up.”

(Qur’an 16: 21)

Truly, He is near when supplicated: He hears when he is called and He answers when He is invoked, so humble yourself before Him and ask of Him sincerely. Repeat His beautiful names, and mention Him alone as worthy of worship. Mention His praises, supplicate to Him: you will find then – by the will of Allah – happiness, peace and illumination.

“So Allah gave them the reward of this world and the excellent reward of the Hereafter.”

(Qur’an 3:148)

Loving Allah, knowing Him, remembering Him, seeking peace in Him, singling Him out for complete love, fear, hope and dependence – these qualities when combined in a person, constitute a sort of heaven on earth. These are qualities that bring peace to those who love Allah, a sort of peace that has no comparison in this world.

It is important that a special relationship exists in the heart between the slave and his Lord, a relationship that allows the slave to feel so close to his Lord that he requires no other. Thus, he finds company when he is alone, and he tastes the sweetness of remembering Him and supplicating to Him. Allah’s slave will continually face hardship and difficulty until he dies, but if he has a special relationship with his Lord, all of the hardships of life will become easy for him.

The prayer….the prayer – we must return to our mosques

“O’ you who believe! Seek help in patience and the Prayer.”

(Qur’an 2:153)

By earnestly performing the five daily prayers, we achieve the greatest of blessings: cleared off our sins and increase in rank with our Lord. Prayer is a potent remedy for our sickness, for it instills our faith in our souls.

As for those that keep away from the mosque and away from prayer, for them is unhappiness, wretchedness and an embittered life.

“For them is destruction and Allah will make their deeds vain.”

(Qur’an 47:8)

Take a moment to reflect

O whose mind has wandered in grief, O’ you whose eyes are loaded with tears; relax and know that your Creator aids, and that His mercy will bring you peace. And know that your reward is secure with He Who doesn’t disappoint the one who seeks to please Him. Be at peace, for after poverty comes joyous meeting, and after sleeplessness comes sound rest. O you who are oppressed in the lands, who suffer from hunger, pain, sickness and poverty, rejoice in the knowledge that you will soon be satisfied with food and that you will be happy and in good health.

Let us make these supplications, their purpose being to eliminate hardship, anxiety and grief:

“There is no worthy of worship except Allah, the Ever Forbearing, the Most Great. There is none worthy of worship except Allah, the Lord of the Tremendous Throne. There is none worthy of worship One Who sustains and protects all that exists, there is none worthy of worship except You, and by Your Mercy do we seek Your aid.”

“So be patient, with a good patience…”

(Qur’an 70:5)

فَإِنَّ مَعَ الْعُسْرِ يُسْرًا
إِنَّ مَعَ الْعُسْرِ يُسْرًا
فَإِذَا فَرَغْتَ فَانصَبْ
وَإِلَى رَبِّكَ فَارْغَبْ

“Verily, along with every hardship is relief, verily, along with hardship is relief. So when you have finished (your occupation), devote yourself for Allah’s worship. And to your Lord (Alone) turn (all your) intentions and hopes.”

[TMQ 94:5-8]

References:
The Noble Qur’an (Muhsin Khan/Muhammad Hilali Translation)

Don’t Be Sad – Shaykh ‘Aaidh Al-Qarni


This is the publishers note:

At a time in which the Muslims are beset with trials from every periphery and within, comes this heartening book rooted in the commandments of Allah (swt), the Sunnah and the excellent guidance and examples of the Muslims that have come before us.

Don't Be Sad is an absolute must-read for all people. It is full of practical advice on how to replace sadness with a pragmatic and ultimately satisfying Islamic outlook on life. It exposes to the modern reader how Islam teaches us to deal with the tests and tribulations of this world.

So, take heart and hold firmly onto the rope of Allah (swt).

This personally is an excellent book, which I have on my bookshelf and always proves useful when I have a down day, and it never fails to pick me up. It is a MUST for all Muslims and Non Muslims alike. More so now we have dipped into the Recession, with growing financial worries and job insecurity, this book serves as an brilliant reminder to focus upon what is important.

Masha'Allah Book Rating: 4.5/5

Explanation of The Hadeeth "No Human Ever Filled a Vessel Worse than the Stomach

Author: Ibn Rajab al-Hanbalee
Source: Jaami’ Al-’Uloom wal-Hikam, hadeeth No. 47

On the authority of Al-Miqdaam ibn Maadiy-Karib who said: I heard the Messenger of Allaah saying:

“No human ever filled a vessel worse than the stomach. Sufficient for any son of Aadam are some morsels to keep his back straight. But if it must be, then one third for his food, one third for his drink and one third for his breath.”

[Ahmad, At-Tirmidhee, An-Nasaa'ee, Ibn Maajah - hadeeth saheeh.]

Ibn Masaweh, a Muslim doctor, said after reading this hadeeth:

“If the people only used these words, they would avoid all diseases and maladies and the clinics and pharmacies would be idle.”

Another doctor, Al-Harith ibn Kalada said:

“That which has killed mankind is the introduction of food on top of food before it has been digested.”

As for spiritual benefits: humbleness of heart, strength of understanding, lessening of lower desires, lessening of personal opinions and anger, while overeating induces the opposites of all of those. Al-Hasan Al-Basree said:

“O, son of Adam, eat with one third of your stomach and drink with one third and leave one third of your stomach to breathe so that you may think.”

Ibn Umar: A man said to Ibn Umar:

“Shouldn’t I bring you some jawarish?” Ibn Umar said: “What is that?”He said: “Something which aids in digesting your food after you eat.” Ibn Umar said: “I have not eaten to being full for four months. That is not because I am not able to do so, but I was with a group of people who were hungry more than they were full.”

Not reaching your goals: Muhammad ibn Wasi said:

“Whoever eats little will understand and make others understand and will be clear and humble. Overeatingweighs a person down and keeps him from much of what he wants [to accomplish]. “

Al-Hasan Al-Basree:

“The test of Aadam, alayhis-salaam, was food and it is your test until Qiyama.”

And, it used to be said:

“Whoever takes control of his stomach gets control of all good deeds.”

And:

“Wisdom does not reside in a full stomach.”

One day, Al-Hasan offered some food to his companion who said:

“I have eaten until I am no longer able to eat.”

To which Al-Hasan said:

“SubhaanAllaah! Does a Muslim eat until he is no longer able to eat?”

Allaah grants this world to those whom He loves and those He does not love but only grants hunger to those whom he loves.

Ash-Shaafi’ee said:

“I have not filled myself in sixteen years because filling oneself makes the body heavy, removes clear understanding, induces sleep and makes one weak for worship.”

In Bukhaaree and Muslim:

“The believer eats with one stomach while the kafir eats with seven stomachs.”

Meaning: The believer eats with the manners of Islam and in moderation, while the kafir eats based on desires and gluttony and so he eats with seven stomachs.

Also:

“Food for one is enough for two and food for two is enough for three and food for three is enough for four.”

Also: From Aa’ishah:

“The family of Muhammad (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa sallam) never filled themselves with wheat bread three days in a row from the time he came to Madeenah until he passed away.”

A Muslim should not merely follow his appetites. Allaah said:

“Then, they were followed by generations who neglected the prayer and followed their appetites. They will encounter a pit of fire except for those who repent…”

[Maryam 59-60]

The best generations did not:

“The best generation is my generation, followed by the one after them then the one after them. Then will come a people who bear witness but are not asked to bear witness, who swear oaths but do not fulfill them and fatness will appear among them.”

[Bukhaaree and Muslim]

From Abee Barza that the Prophet (sal-Allaahu ‘alayhe wa sallam) said:

“My greatest fear for you is the appetites of transgression with regard to your stomachs and your privates and the inclinations which lead astray.”

[Ahmad and others and its narrators are people of saheeh]

Remembrance of Death, the Destroyer of Pleasures

Remembrance of Death, the Destroyer of Pleasures



THE BOOK OF FUNERALS
What is Said about "Relieved and being Relived from"

Chapter 16, no. 466:

Abu Qataadah bin Rab'ee, radhi Allaahu anhu, narrated: A funeral procession passed by the Messenger of Allaah, sall'Allaahu alaihi wa salaam, he said, "Relieved or being relieved from."
The peopld asked, "O Messenger of Allaah! What is relieved and what is relieved from?"
He said, "A believer is relieved (by death) from the hardships of the world (and leaves for the Mercy of Allaah) while a wicked person's death relieves the people, the land, the trees, (and) the animals from him."

Chapter 40, no. 490
When a person dies, his place in Jannah (Paradise) or Hell is shown to him in evening and in morning:

Ibn "Umar, radhi Allaahu anhumma, narrated that the Messenger of Allaah, sall'Allaahu alaihi wa salaam, said: "When one of you dies, his place is shown to him in the morning and in the evening. If he belongs to the people of Jannah, he is shown his place in it; and if he belongs to the people of the Hell-Fire, he is shown his place therein. It will be said to him: "This is your place until Allaah raises you on the Day of Resurrection.'"

Chapter 41, no 491
The Questioning of the Two Angels in the Grave

Anas bin Maalik, radhi Allaahu anhu, narrated that the Prophet, sall'Allaahu alaihi wa salaam, said: "When the slave is laid in his grave and his people return, he hears their footsteps." He said: "Two angels come to him and make his sit and ask: 'What did you use to say about this man (ie, Muhammad, sall'Allaahu alaihi wa salaam)?' The believer will say: 'I testify that he is the slave of Allaah and HIs Messenger.' Then they will say to himL 'Look at your place in the Hell-Fire; Allaah has replaced it for you with a place in Jannah instead of it.'" The Prophet of Allaah, sall'Allaahu alaihi wa salaam, said: "So he will see both of his places."

Chapter 43, no 493
Seeking Refuge from the Torment in the Grave

Zaid bin Thaabit, radhi Allaahu anhu, narrated: While the Prophet, sall'Allaahu alaihi wa salaam, was with us in an orchard belonging to Banau Najjaar, riding a mule, it made a sideways shift and almost dropped him down, and there were six, five, or four graves. He said: "Who knows the people of these graves?" A man said: "I do." He, sall'Allaahu alaihi wa salaam, said: "When did they die?" He said: They died as polytheists." He said: "These people are tested in the graves. Were you not to stop burying your dead in the graves, I would ask Allaah to make you hear the lament of the graves which I hear."

Then he turned towards us and said: "We seek refuge with Allaah from the torment of Hell." They said :"We seek refuge with Allaah from the torment of Hell."
He said: "Seek refuge with Allaah from the torment of the grave." They said: "We seek refuge with Allaah from the torment of the grave."
He said: "Seek refuge iwth Allaah from al-Fitan (trial, turomoil, etc.), visible and invisible." And they said: "We seek refuge with Allaah from al-Fitan, visible and invisible."
And he said,: "Seek refuge with Allaah from the al-Fitan of Ad Dajjal.". And they said, "We seek refuge from Allaah from the fitan of Ad-Dajjal."

Chapter 45, no 495
Visiting Graves and Asking for Forgiveness for Them

Abu Hurairah, radhi Allaahu anhu, narrated that the Prophet, sall'Allaahu alaihi wa salaam, visited the grave of his mother and he wept, and made others around him weep, and said: "I sought permission from my Rabb to ask forgiveness for her but it was not granted to me, and sought permission to visit her grave and it was granted to me. So visit the graves, for that makes you remember death."

Sahih Muslim

The Prophet PBUH - Nasheed by Dawud Wharnsby Ali

The Prophet

Muhammad, `alayhis salam,
Sat quietly in the evening
His companion asked,
“O beautiful man, why do you sit here, grieving?”
“My ummah, those who follow me,
The future of their faith
Makes me worry ’til I cry.
My brothers and sisters in Islam,
Will they be strong and carry on after I die?”
The Prophet stood silently and prayed
His beard becoming wet as he cried for his fears.
“O Allah, don’t let this nation fade!”
As he pleaded through the night
The earth around him filled with tears.
“My ummah, those who follow me,
The future of their faith
Makes me worry ’til I cry.
My brothers and sisters in Islam,
Will they be strong and carry on after I die?”
A stillness fell over the land
Companions gathered near to where the Prophet lay.
As Ayesha, his wife, held tight to his hand,
The Prophet spoke again before he passed away,
“My ummah, those who follow me,
The future of their faith
Makes me worry ’til I cry.
My brothers and sisters in Islam,
Will they be strong and carry on after I die?”
Believers,Brothers and sisters in Islam,
Will we be strong and carry on
Until we die?

Artist = Dawud Wharnsby Ali

Are You Jealous of What Others Have?

Are You Jealous of What Others Have?
http://islamgreatreligion.wordpress.com/2010/04/30/are-you-jealous-of-what-others-have/
By Shawana A. Aziz

Hasad (jealousy and envy) is among the most destructive emotions which a man may develop toward his fellow human being. With Hasad, a person will wish evil for others and will be happy when misfortune befalls them. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) warned against envy by comparing it to fire that completely burns the wood.

He (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“Beware of jealousy, for verily it destroys good deeds the way fire destroys wood.”

[Abu Dawud]

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

“There has come to you the disease of the nations before you, jealousy and hatred. This is the ‘shaver’ (destroyer); I do not say that it shaves hair, but that it shaves (destroys) faith…”

[At-Tirmidhi, No. 2434]

Hasad can take a person into disbelief because he may conclude that Allah has not been fair with him, while Allah is the Most Just. The person may forget all of Allah’s mercy and blessings bestowed upon him.

The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“They are enemies of Allah’s bounties.” When asked, “Who are they?”, he replied: “Those who envy people for what Allah has given them of Bounty.”

[At-Tabarani]

Allah through His Absolute Wisdom gave some people more wealth, intelligence, beauty, strength, and children than others. Discontentment comes from the slave’s ignorance of his Lord. If he recognizes his Lord with the attributes of Perfection, he would not be discontent and as a result would not develop Hasad. A believing Muslim should be content with what Allah has destined for him. Imam Ibn Qayyim said: “It (contentment) opens the door of peace and security for the slave.

“Allah favored some of you over others with wealth and properties- Do they deny the favors of Allah?”

[Noble Quran 16:71]

“Do they envy men for what Allah has given them of His Bounty?”

[Noble Quran 4:54]

“It is We Who portion out between them their livelihood in this world, and We raised some of them above others in ranks, so that some may employ others in their work. But the mercy of your Lord is better.”

[Noble Quran 43:32]

This means that the mercy of Allah is better than the convenience of the world. Material things of this life do not make one superior over another. True superiority lies in Taqwa (righteousness and fear of Allah).

Allah said:

“Surely, the most noble of you to Allah is the most God-fearing.”

[Noble Quran 49:13]

“And the Hereafter with Your Lord is (only) for those who have Taqwa.”

[Noble Quran 43:35]

What belongs to the transient world is of no significance at all before Allah. The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“If this world were worth a mosquito’s wing before Allah, He would not give a disbeliever a drink of water. “

[At-Tirmidhi]

In order to discourage envy, the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“Do not look to those above you. Look to those below you, as it will more likely remind you of Allah’s favors bestowed on you.”

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

On another occasion, he said:

“If one of you looks at someone wealthier and better built than him, he should also look at someone of lower standard than himself.”

[Sahih Muslim]



Good envy

What Islam permits in contrast to Hasad (destructive jealousy) is Ghibtah (envy that is free from malice). It means that a person neither wishes for misfortune to fall on others nor does he hate the blessings with them. He desires for similar blessings without having any ill-feeling toward others.

The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“Envy is allowed in two cases: a man whom Allah has given the Quran and who recites it throughout night and day; and a man on whom Allah has bestowed wealth who gives it away night and day.”

[Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

The Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) also explained what is allowed to be said:

“I wish I were given what he was given and did with it what he did.”

The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) said:

“The similitude of the people of this Ummah is like that of four individuals. One whom Allah has given wealth and knowledge, so he handles his wealth with knowledge.

One whom Allah has given knowledge but not wealth, and he says, ‘Lord, should I have wealth like so-and-so, I would have handled it like him.’ So they both have the same reward. Such a person loves to have wealth like others so he can do good like others without wishing that others lose their wealth.

“Another man whom Allah gave wealth but no knowledge spends it in disobedience to Allah.

And last, a man whom Allah has not given knowledge or wealth but who says, ‘Should I have wealth like so-and-so, I would spend it in the way he does.’ So, both will have the same sin against them.”

[At-Tirmidhi and Ibn Majah]

Salaat - Pray before you are prayed upon

Check these picture out below, SubhanAllah, devoted Muslims of all ages, who seek to pray at the prescribed times regardless of where they are.

Rasulullah [SallAllahu Alayhi WaSallam] said,

"Pray while standing and if you can't, pray while sitting and if you cannot do even that, then pray lying on your side."

(Sahih Bukhari Volume 2 Book 20 No.218)



وإن كنت من ( المتكاسلين )
فستموت ميتة ( الخاسرين )
فلاتدع الصلاة تفوتك
Do not miss a prayer
Do not die a loser’s death



والله تعالى يقول : (( إِنَّ الصَّلاَةَ كَانَتْ عَلَى الْمُؤْمِنِينَ كِتَابًا مَّوْقُوتًا )) .
Allah swt says in the Quran that prayer is prescribed upon the believers according to a precise timely record


so,
صَـلُّوا قــَـبْلَ أنْ يُصَلَّى عـَلـَـيْكُمْ
Pray before you are prayed upon


This is an amazing picture of a diver, praying underwater - I am not sure what the Fiqh issue is around this is.



Therefore, we should not add excuses to missing our obligation of Salaah - we must pray all 5 prayers daily Insha'Allah!

Is God "Love"? Why Doesn't God Stop the Evil?

Is God "Love"? Why Doesn't God Stop the Evil?
Is there a God? Can God do anything? Is there any other god or power besides Almighty God?
- Imam Muzammil Siddiqi, former president of the ISNA -

Indeed Allah is All-Powerful (Al-`Aziz) and He is able to do all things (Allahu 'ala kuli shayin qadir).
The Quran has mentioned this hundreds of times.
Quran also says,

"Glory be to Allah, the best Creator"

(Al-Mu'minoon: 14)
But then the question comes why do pain and sufferings exist in the world. We find sickness, old age and death. We see things that are ugly, people who are insane and foolish. There are storms, earthquakes, floods, draught and famine. We also see people commit sins, show disloyalty, unfaithfulness, greed and insincerity. We see people commit rapes, murders; they fight and make wars. We know all these and many more problems. There are evils caused by human beings and there are natural disasters.

There are suffering for individuals and there are those that involve a large number of people.
But we also know that this is not the whole story. Besides all these negative things, we also see beauty, health, prosperity, life, birth, wisdom, intelligence, growth and progress. We observe goodness among people, faith, sincerity, charity, love and the spirit of sacrifice. We notice a lot of virtue and piety. It is wrong to see one side of the coin and not to see the other side.

Let us ask this question to understand Allah's ways in His creation. The Quran tells us that good, evil and whatever happens in this world happens by Allah's Will (mashiat Allah). Only Allah knows fully His Will. We finite beings cannot grasp fully His infinite Will and Wisdom. He runs His universe the way He deems fit. The Quran tells us that Allah is Wise and everything that Allah does is right, just, good and fair. We must submit and surrender to His Will. The Quran has not given us all the details about Allah's Will, but it has enlightened us with the guidance that is useful and sufficient for us. There are several points that we should keep in our mind to understand this issue:

1. First of all, Allah did not make this world a permanent world. This is a temporary world and everything here has a time limit. When its times comes it will die, come to an end and finish. Neither the good things of this world are forever, nor the bad things eternal. We are here for a short time and we are being tested. Those who will pass this test will find an eternal world that is perfect and permanent. Those who will fail this test shall see the evil consequences of their sins and corruption.

The prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, told us,

"This worldly place is a prison to the true believers, and a paradise to the disbelievers."

2. Allah has placed a physical law and a moral law in this universe. Allah allows suffering to occur when one or more of these laws are broken. The physical law is based on cause and effect. Sickness comes if one does not take care of ones health or is exposed to infections. A car accident occurs when one is not alert, or drives in a careless manner, or if the cars are not checked, roads and freeways are not made and kept in right shape, or the traffic laws are not right or not properly enforced. Study of causes and effects is very important to facilitate safeguards. Even here we should keep in mind that Allah often saves us and He does not let us suffer from every negligence. How many times it happens that we are not careful and still we reach safely to our destinations. The way people drive in some cities, it is a miracle that more accidents do not happen and more people do not suffer. Allah says:

(Allah) Most Gracious! It is He Who has taught the Quran. He has created man: He has taught him speech (and Intelligence). The sun and the moon follow courses (exactly) computed; and the herbs and the trees both (alike) bow in adoration. And the Firmament has He raised high, and He has set up the Balance (of Justice), in order that you may not transgress (due) balance. So establish weight with justice and fall not short in the balance. It is He Who has spread out the earth for (His) creatures."

(Ar-Rahman:1-10)

The way we exceed the measures set by Allah and violate His laws of "cause and effect" is incredible. It is really the mercy of Allah that we are saved. Strictly speaking, the question should not be why does Allah allow suffering, but how much Allah protects us and saves us all the time in spite of our violations and negligence. The Quran says:

"If Allah were to punish people according to what they deserve, He would not leave on the back of the (earth) a single living creature: but He gives them respite for a stated Term: when their Term expires, verily Allah has in His sight all His servants."

(Fatir:45)

But sometimes Allah does punish people because of their violations of His laws whether they are physical or moral. The Quran tells us that many nations and communities were destroyed because of their sinful lifestyles:

If they treat thy (mission) as false, so did the Peoples before them (with their Prophets), the People of Noah, and Ad and Thamud. Those of Abraham and Lut; and the Companions of the Madyan people; and Moses was rejected (in the same way). But I granted respite to the Unbelievers, and (only) after that did I punish them: but how (terrible) was My rejection (of them)! How many populations have We destroyed, which were given to wrong-doing! They tumbled down on their roofs. And how many wells are lying idle and neglected, and castles lofty and well-built?"

(Al-Hajj: 42-45)


3. Suffering can also be a test and trial for some people. Allah allows some people to suffer in order to test their patience and steadfastness. Even Allah's Prophets and Messengers were made to suffer. Prophet Ayyub is mentioned in the Quran as a Prophet who was very patient. Good people sometimes suffer but their sufferings heal others and bring goodness to their communities. People learn lessons from their good examples. Martyrs die for their faith, soldiers give their lives for their nations and this brings liberation and freedom for their people.

4. Allah sometimes allows some people to suffer to test others, how they react to them. When you see a person who is sick, poor and needy, then you are tested by Allah. Allah is there with that suffering person to test your charity and your faith. In a very moving Hadith Qudsi (Divine Hadith) the Prophet, peace be upon him, said:


Allah will say on the Day of Judgment,

"O son of Adam, I was sick and you did not visit Me." He will say, "O my Lord, how could I visit You, when you are the Lord of the Worlds?" Allah will say, "Did you not know that My servant so-and-so was sick and you did not visit him? Did you not know that if you had visited him, you would have found Me there?" Allah will say, "O son of Adam, I asked you for food and you fed Me not." He shall say, "O my Lord, how could I feed you and you are the Lord of the Worlds?" And Allah will say, "Did you not know that My servant so-and-so was in need of food and you did not feed him? Did you not know that if you had fed him, you would have found that to have been for Me?" "O son of Adam, I asked you for water and you did not give Me to drink." The man shall say, "O my Lord, how could I give You water, when You are the Lord of the Worlds?" Allah will say, "My servant so-and-so asked you for water and you did not give him to drink water. Did you not know that if you had given him to drink, you would have found that to have been for Me?"

(Muslim, Hadith no. 4661)

Prophet `Isa (Jesus), peace be upon him, is also reported to have said something similar in the Injeel (Gospel or New Testament of The Bible).
(See Matthew 25: 35-45)

So, in summary we can say suffering occurs to teach us that we must adhere to Allah's natural and moral laws. It is sometimes to punish those who violate Allah's natural or moral laws. It is to test our faith in Allah and to test our commitment to human values and charity. Whenever we encounter suffering we should ask ourselves, Have we broken any law of Allah? Let us study the cause of the problem and use the corrective methods. Could it be a punishment? Let us repent and ask forgiveness and reform our ways. Could it be a test and trial for us? Let us work hard to pass this test. Believers face the sufferings with prayers, repentance and good deeds. The non-believers face the sufferings with doubts and confusions. They blame Allah or make arguments against Him. May Allah keep us on the right path, Amen!

Allah Almighty knows best. - [credit to: Dr. Muzamil Saddique and www.IslamOnline.net]
Dr. Muzammil Siddiqi is the director of the Islamic Society of Orange County and (former) President of the Islamic Society of North

Beyond Exorcism: Black Magic Spells, Pieces of Sihr (Talismans/Amulets), and the Disease of Hasad (Envy)

This post I have taken from the MM website: http://muslimmatters.org/2010/02/22/beyond-exorcism-black-magic-spells-pieces-of-sihr-taweeztalismansamulets-and-the-disease-of-hasad-envy/ It is a very interesting and most beneficial read.

Posted by Umm Reem • February 22nd, 2010

Please note that wherever I refer to magic in this post, it is of course referring to black-magic, not trickery.

A while back, MM posted an article sharing my experiences with exorcism in Pakistan. I mentioned in the post that whenever I get a chance, insha Allah, I will write about sihr (magic) and why it has become so common in Pakistan. A few months back, I made another trip to Pakistan and new experiences prompted me to write the long-overdue sequel to that exorcism post!

In my previous trip to Pakistan, I went (not alone of course) to different graveyards in my attempt to help the possessed girl with whom I was working. To my surprise, I noticed hundreds of ripped pieces of cloth hanging on the trees in each of the graveyards that I visited. When asked about those pieces of cloth, the graveyard caretakers almost always seemed fearful of them, essentially saying that these were works of magicians and they didn’t want to “mess with them.” Obviously, these pieces of sihr contained magic spells, impacting the lives of an untold number of people.

After I returned from Pakistan, I regretted not destroying as many of those objects of sihr as I could, and perhaps thereby helping to break magic spells cast upon husbands, wives, sisters and brothers. However, I promised myself that whenever I returned to Pakistan, I would try my best to dispose of as many such items as I could. Since this wasn’t exactly a woman’s job, especially due to the prohibition of females visiting cemeteries (although there is an ikhtilaaf, it is not the goal of the discussion here), for this purpose, I recruited my poor husband to help me with this “mission.”

Thus, my husband made the trip to his ancestral graveyard with his cousin and brother (for added “protection”). However, he could only destroy a handful of these sihr-cloths for a number of reasons: Firstly, it was a time consuming process, since each one preferably needed to be read over before destruction. Secondly, trying to “mess with” them is made very complicated by the graveyard groundskeepers, as they are afraid that somehow their destruction is sacrilegious. Almost always, the groundskeepers were uneducated and wore tons of talismans themselves. They truly believe that some “museebah” (calamity) will befall them once those objects of sihr are “messed around with!”

To make a long story short, you can see the film of what my husband accomplished, while his brother and cousin watched/videotaped (SEE all the way at the bottom). Photos of the pieces that are being destroyed in the movie shown here.

[See link to the post for pictures and video]

Notice how the groundskeeper provided constant commentary (in Punjabi) in the background, almost begging my husband to stop before he started taking them apart, because he feared some “evil omen,” I’yaadhobillah! Also notice the animal sounds (no one noticed these sounds until we watched the movie together—of course, it may be a pure coincidence), particularly the crow’s cawing and the donkey’s loud braying as soon as the sihr-cloths are lit up.

All of these pieces of sihr were composed of pieces of paper with grids drawn upon them that contained strange numbers, which is almost always used in magic. These papers were then meticulously wrapped up in pieces of plastic (to prevent moisture from entering), tied up with tons of string, and then wrapped up in pieces of cloth. On one of the papers, I noticed what appeared to be traces of blood, which could be from a woman’s menstrual blood (and Allah knows best) because that is the most common ways of doing magic on females. Also one of these pieces of sihr had the names of an entire family written upon it, along with the Urdu words “laraiee jhagra” (translated as fighting/argumentation). Quite obvious what the purpose of this one was, and Allah knows best.

While in Pakistan, I also helped a family member with some of her personal issues. Apparently, her in-laws had given her an amulet to wear, which she didn’t trust to wear, but kept with her. It was sealed in a small, light-weight metallic silver box. After a bit of maneuvering, I managed to open it, only to find two pieces of papers wrapped up in plastic. One paper had about 7 needles inserted in it (see first couple of photos above) and the other one had some strange language written on it, although it started with “bismillah!”

These and similar incidents make all of us wonder: Why have people, Muslims in particular, become so involved in these acts of disbelief and kufr?

Based on my personal observation in the cases where I have witnessed the use of magic, I believe that the main cause of the use of magic is hasad (jealousy). It’s true that the majority of the population is ignorant of the facts about magic and the shar’eeh rulings about it, however, jealousy is a very strong emotion and at times it blurs even the minds of knowledgeable people. That is why the Prophet of Allah (sallallahu alayhi wa salam) said:

“Jealousy eats away at good deeds, just as fire eats away at firewood.”

[Sunan Ibn Majah]

In general, I noticed a strange sense of competition among the folks there. In many cases, people were just not well-wishers of each other, even to close family members. I noticed that people don’t like anyone passing them in worldly status (wealth, career, etc.), especially within their own family or friends. Everyone seemed so curious and so much into each other’s business. Sometimes talking to different ladies reminded me of the warning of the Prophet (sallallahu alayhi wa salam):

“Do not harbor envy or ill-will; and neither spy nor be inquisitive about other persons’ faults nor make bogus offers of prices to spoil a bargain, and O Allah’s servants! Be brethren to each other.”

[Bukhari]

Everything turns into a “status symbol.” The more wealth a family has, the more they like to show it off, whether it is a worldly affair or even a religious one. People have even made the udhiya (sacrifice) of Eid a means to flaunt their wealth: the more money one has, the bigger or more animals they sacrifice. Children’s education is sought in schools that are judged by the amount of tuition, and not necessarily by the standard of education! Wedding parties, engagement ceremonies, and even normal gatherings are but a race to compete with others and to show off. When a marriage proposal is described it starts and ends with how much wealth the suitor has. In such circumstances, people not only tend to forget the real purpose of life, but they also forget the worldly harms of this rat race. Forget about stress, psychological tension, and depression; two of the most malicious consequences faced in this world are, Ain bil hasad (evil eye) and sihr (magic).

In most cases, people are negligent about reading their daily adhkaar. Moreover, those who deliberately flaunt their blessings have no recognition of these adkhaar. There is a reason why the morning and afternoon adhkaar are called “the fortress of a believer.” They literally are a wall between a believer and an evil eye, but only when recited regularly. When this wall is absent, however, the evil eye finds an easy and smooth way to the person and causes damage and harm. As Ibn al-Qayyam explains in Ziyaad al-Maad:

"The evil eye is like an arrow… sometimes it hits him [the target] and sometimes it misses. If the target is exposed and unprotected, it will affect him, but if the target is cautious and armed, the arrow will have no effect and may even come back on the one who launched it.”

An evil eye can be given by anyone. When a person likes something and looks at it, either with jealousy or with sincere appreciation, but does not invoke Allah’s blessings over it, the shayateen/jinn voluntarily fly over to harm the one being appreciated.

The Prophet (sallallahu alihi wasalam) traveled with Sahl ibn Haneef towards Makkah, until they were in the mountain pass of al-Kharaar in al-Jahfah. There Sahl ibn Haneef did ghusl, and he was a handsome white-skinned man with beautiful skin. ‘Aamir ibn Rabee’ah, looked at him whilst he was doing ghusl and said:

“I have never seen such beautiful skin as this, not even the skin of a virgin,”

and Sahl fell to the ground. They went to Messenger of Allah (sallallahu alihi wasalam) and said,

“O Messenger of Allah, can you do anything for Sahl, because by Allah he cannot raise his head.”

He said,

“Do you accuse anyone with regard to him?” They said, “‘Aamir ibn Rabee’ah looked at him.”

So the Messenger of Allah called ‘Aamir and rebuked him strongly. He said,

“Why would one of you kill his brother? If you see something that you like, then pray for blessing for him.”

Then he said to him,

“Wash yourself for him.”

So he washed his face, hands, forearms, knees and the sides of his feet, and inside his izaar (lower garment) in the vessel. Then that water was poured over him, and a man poured it over his head and back from behind. He did that to him, then Sahl got up and joined the people and there was nothing wrong with him. (Ahmad, Nisaa’i)

If the person invokes Allah’s blessing (by saying Allaahumma barik), the shayaateen cannot cause harm, or if the one being appreciated has his/her adhkaar recited then he/she stays protected, by Allah’s will. However, if people are not well-wishers and are jealous of the blessings of the other person (such as beauty, wealth, education, children, a happy marriage or any type of success), then we can be assured that they will never invoke Allah’s blessings. And the dangerous harm that they cause from their evil eye can even be life-threatening!

“Most of those who die among my ummah die because of the will and decree of Allah, and then because of the evil eye.”

“The evil eye is real and if anything were to overtake the divine decree, it would be the evil eye. When you are asked to take a bath (to provide a cure) from the influence of the evil eye, you should take a bath.”

(Muslim)

However, since the jealous ones, in most cases, are not spiritual enough to know the harm they are capable of causing simply by looking with the eye of hasad, their jealousy eventually leads them to the magicians. They need something more “concrete” to satisfy the fire of jealousy in their hearts. With the help of the magicians they try to achieve that satisfaction, however little do they realize that it only adds to their distress, unhappiness and failure to this dunya and akhira (may Allah protect us from hasad and haasid).

In all honesty, the first time I ever truly appreciated the ayah in Surah Falaq,

“wa min shari haasedin idha hasad (and from the evil of the jealousy when he starts envying),”

was after my observation and hearing the stories of many unfortunate people that had been affected by magic.

Magic is a step further then evil eye. If an evil eye can itself be so evil, just imagine the effects of magic on people. By Allah, I have seen people suffer, and this suffering is far worse than a fatal disease. It is not only damaging to the person’s body and sanity, but even damaging to the people around them and in many cases may break up marriages and divide families.

So my sincere advice and reminder, firstly to myself and then to everyone else is to read the morning and evening adhkaar. In addition to Ayatul Kursi, Surah Falaq and Naas, read the following:

■A’oodhu bi kalimaat-illaah il-taammati min sharri ma khalaqa (I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from the evil of that which He has created).
■A’oodhu bi kalimaat-illaah il-taammati min ghadabihi wa ‘iqaabihi, wa min sharri ‘ibaadihi wa min hamazaat al-shayaateeni wa an yahduroon (I seek refuge in the perfect words of Allah from His wrath and punishment, from the evil of His slaves and from the evil promptings of the devils and from their presence).

Whenever you praise someone, or you notice something nice about someone, please make sure you follow it up with, preferably, “Allahumma barik” or b Even if you don’t verbalize your praise, know that the shayaateen are sharply observing your sight. There is a reason why the evil eye is called an “evil eye”:

“And verily, those who disbelieve would almost make you slip with their eyes (through hatred)”

(68:51)

Also, in my humble opinion, it is not wise to mention to others about our specific blessings. Not everything needs to be mentioned to everyone or in every gathering. I understand that it is tempting and a way of carrying on a conversation among friends, but it is for our own safety and protection. Especially sisters, who like to discuss the details of their new clothes, shoes, makeup etc., please remember that not every shopping trip to the mall, or gifts from husbands need to be mentioned. Not to say that our friends are not sincere, but it could be that one of them cannot afford what we can afford, or she may be having problems in her marriage and may feel some element of jealousy, or she may forget to say “masha Allah”, and the evil eye befalls us.

One of the ways that is becoming quite common is to write a Facebook status mentioning specific blessings or good about oneself. Some sisters like to write blog entries about their everyday interaction with their husbands, or happily married life in general. May Allah (azzawajal) bless all the sisters with happy and successful marriages, but I want to remind them that they may be opening a door to bringing the evil eye upon themselves. Don’t be mistaken. I am not saying that we should not be thankful, or that we be miserable in front of others, I am just advising that the details of a happy life or everyday blessings do not need to be mentioned to every friend. The true thanks should be given to the One who blesses us with the blessings and by being content, but every happiness doesn’t need to be verbalized in front of others, wa Allahu ta’ala ‘alam.

At the same time, we should not become paranoid either, and mistake every mishap with an evil eye or magic. Rather we should try to keep a balanced approach. This has been my observation. I realize that there are some other problems for which people approach magicians other then jealousy, but I wanted to remind all of us about evil eye and the necessity of reading our adhkaar. Another major reason for using magic is lack of Tawakkal and people seeking the solution to their problems through magicians, but insha Allah that will be the topic for another article.

May Allah swt warden off the Sihr in our Communities and protect each and every one of us from this. May Allah swt keep us in constant remembrance of His Greatness and Mercy. May Allah swt protect us from the Trials and Tribulations of the Dunya, from Evil Eye from all those around us. Aamin, Aamin. Aamin