Three levels of Faith | Islam, Iman, and Ihsan

Our religion is composed of three parts in which we have Islam, Iman, and Ihsan. We will discuss three of them in this article.

Islam

As we discussed above that there are three levels of faith that a person can attain being a Muslim. The first level is Islam. A Muslim must be declared that there is no God but Allah and Muhammad (SAW) is the messenger of Allah (SWT). By declaring this a person accepts the message of Allah Almighty that is revealed to humanity through the last prophet Muhammad (SAW). After accepting Islam it is obligatory on Muslim to observe all other Islamic obligations like five daily prayers, Zakat, Fasting in Ramadan, make a pilgrimage (Hajj) of the house of Allah if he/she is capable of doing this physically and also financially. These are some obligatory things that a Muslim must follow after the proclamation of Islam. The rules of Islam come more easily to those who have prepared their hearts with Iman.

Iman

Iman or faith is the first thing that we have to learn in our religion because it acts as our roots. Iman is basically to believe in Allah, His Angels, His Books, His Messengers and all the scriptures which He sent down before. As Allah Almighty said in Holy Quran: “O you who have believed, believe in Allah and His Messenger, (in) the Book that He sent down upon His Messenger, and the Scripture which He sent down before. And whoever disbelieves in Allah, His angels, His books, His messengers, and the Last Day has certainly gone far astray” (Quran, 4: 136)

So, a person reaching Iman believes that not only Allah exists but He is capable of doing anything He wants to do. A Mumen believes in everything Allah Almighty told in the Holy Quran. The belief in the Last Day which is the Judgment Day is an acknowledgment of accountability and estimation. It is an incentive for people to do good in this life in order to be rewarded in Paradise and a warning against doing badly in order to avoid punishment in the Hellfire.

The Prophet (SAW) said that Iman is, “To believe in Allah, His Angels, His Books, to believe in meeting Him, to believe in His Messengers, the Resurrection and the predestination” (Al-Bukhari). We can say that Iman is about inwardly actions.

Ihsan

Ihsan is the highest status of religion Islam. Its definition that our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) described is: “To worship Allah as if you see Him, and if you do not see Him, He sees you.” The concept of Ihsan in Islam is also that a Muslim is a responsible person where he does things in a good manner. We can say that Ihsan means a Muhsen is sure that Allah is seeing him/her in everything he/she says or does in his life. So, a Muhsen does his best to say and do only what pleases Allah Almighty and conforms to His commands.

In the Holy Quran, Allah Almighty says: “Indeed, Allah commands justice, good conduct (Ihsan), and giving to relatives (and He) forbids immorality, bad conduct, and oppression. He admonishes you that perhaps you will be reminded” (Quran, 16: 90).

In short, by living according to the concept of Ihsan and by applying it to all that a Muslim does, he/she will be rewarded and drench with mercy and forgiveness from Allah Almighty.

British Haj Travel Ltd Services:

If you are planning for Hajj or Umrah packages from the UK this year, then contact "British Haj Travel Ltd" experience team. We are the one of the leading Hajj and Umrah travel agency company in the UK. We have the huge range of packages for Hajj and Umrah at the cheap price. Call us for any query about Hajj or Umrah: ***0203 9170 999***

source: quranreading.com

Marriage And Divorce In Islam!

Marriage is a lawful union between man and woman based on mutual consent comprising devotion, intimacy, and respect of each other. Islam is the strongest advocate of marriage as it is a moral safeguard along social necessity. The purpose of marriage is to foster the state of companion between man and wife as it has declared half faith in Deen e Islam that utterly despises celibacy rooted deep in rest of the religions.

“When a person gets married he has completed half of his religion, so let him fear Allah with regard to the other half.” [Al Bayhaqi]

Nikkah Legalizes Marriage in Islam

A mere individual consent is not necessary but nikkah is the vital part to legalize marriage as per sacred scripture of Quran and Sunnah. Nikkah shatters half of the sins for a Muslim and it shields the person from fornication, adultery, and homosexuality.

Marriage in Islam is a divine bond between two souls for each other for comfort, companionship, and support hence has declared a sign of the glorified Lord as Quran states:

“And of His signs is that He created for you from yourselves mates that you may find tranquility in them, and He placed between you affection and mercy. Indeed in that are signs for a people who give thought.” [Quran 30:21]

Marriage is Prophet Sunnah

Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) was sent down with eminent messages regarding different perspectives of life including marriage. Muslims have awarded with the liability of choosing their life partners and have given the choice of rejection but on rational grounds. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) is the role model for every single man on this earth. He called marriage His Sunnah and fulfilling Sunnah in itself holds gazillion virtues. Hadith narrates:

“It was narrated from Aisha (RA) that Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) said, “Marriage is a part of my Sunnah, and whoever does not follow my Sunnah has nothing to do with me” [Ibn E Majah]

Unfortunately, the fatal and socially curses custom of Dowry has made marriages complicated. This cultural aspect that is commonly followed in most of the Asian countries put undue pressure on the parents of the girl making it impossible for families to think of their daughter’s marriage. Islam has asked for a simple marriage withholding the rights of a woman along Haq E Mahar that is a safety bond for a woman after her marriage.

“The marriage that is most greatly blessed is the one, which is the lightest in burden [expense]. However, if people are well catered for, without extravagance and show, there is no problem with that either.” [Bayhaqi]

Lavishness is otherwise forbidden in Islam and Allah Almighty has refrained Muslims not to be among the wasters as stated: 

“… And be not excessive. Indeed, He does not like those who commit excess.” [Quran 6:141]

Qualities of a Spouse

Islam asked His followers to select a spouse of his own will yet it has stated certain prerequisites that entail her religion, nobility, character, firm faith, and synced compatibility. Allah has even warned the people that noble women are only for the nobleman hence seek what is better in their favor.

It was narrated from Abu Hurairah (RA) that Allah’s Messenger (PBUH) said, “A woman may be married for four things: her wealth, her lineage, her beauty or for his religion. Choose the religious, may your hands be rubbed with dust.” [Abu Dawud]

Divorce and Commands in Islam

Marriage is a contract and a contract is based on the certain criterion to fulfill. If any of the partners deviates and incur miseries upon other then Islam calls on for divorce. Divorce can be both from man or from the woman, former is known as Talaq and later is Khulah. Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) said about divorce that:

“Talaaq is the right of the one who seizes the leg (i.e., consummates the marriage)” i.e. the husband. [Ibn E Majah]

Divorce is otherwise the most cursed and loathsome ritual that Allah despises and ordered reconciliation in any such cases.

“The most hateful permissible thing (al-Halal) in the sight of Allah is divorce.” [Abu Dawud]

1. Mutual Divorce

In case of mutual divorce, there is no need to consult courts or elect arbitrators for reconciliations. The man must give divorce three times by fulfilling the rest of her rights like Haq Meher. The pronouncement of Talaq can be verbal or written depending on circumstances and the parties ought to accomplish three months period of iddat refraining from physical needs. The iddat is to prevent the person from making any hasty decisions in anger and anguish. In this entire period, Husband is responsible for fulfilling the responsibilities of his divorced wife.

“Divorce is twice. Then, either keep [her] in an acceptable manner or release [her] with good treatment. And it is not lawful for you to take anything of what you have given them unless both fear that they will not be able to keep [within] the limits of Allah….” [Quran 2:229]

2. Khulah (Ransom)

Khula is when a wife is not satisfied by her male partner’s responsibilities. In this case, she gets herself free from all liabilities in return for Haq Meher and takes separation.

“… And it is not lawful for you to take anything of what you have given them unless both fear that they will not be able to keep [within] the limits of Allah. But if you fear that they will not keep [within] the limits of Allah, then there is no blame upon either of them concerning that by which she ransoms herself. ” [Quran 2:229]

Conditions that make Divorce invalid

Despite aforementioned reasons, other there are certain conditions that nullify divorce like:

• Anger invalidates Talaq as it is from Satan and provoke the person to utter senseless things. Hadith narrates:

“There is no divorce and no manumission in the event of ighlaaq (anger).” [Abu Dawud]

• When a person is in an impure state and drunk then the divorce does not hold. In drunken cases, the mental strength of the person deludes and he is oblivion of what he has stated hence such Talaaqs are not valid. As Allah says in the Quran:

“O you who have believed, do not approach prayer while you are intoxicated until you know what you are saying or in a state of janabah….” [Quran 4:43]

• In the state of menses and pregnancy, the different school of thoughts has different opinions hence the participants should consult Shariat courts and made further proceedings.

Surmising, the legal contract of marriage has its own charm and bounties hence Islam commands the couple to avoid any conflict that leads to divorce. Once divorced then shariat should be kept in consideration to avoid Allah’s wrath but the intention should be reconciliation prior to any permanent damage.

source: quranreading.com

Major Qualities of True Believers in Islam

When someone accepts Islam he/she became a Muslim. According to the Islamic point of view, a true Muslim is known to be a Mumin. Both Mumin and Muslim are somehow likely terms but a little bit different like Muslim is a person who embraces Islam by saying Kalima Tayyaba and with a devoted belief that Allah is One, There’s no God except Him and Prophet Mohammed (SAW) is His last Messenger but Mumin is the one in which this knowledge of faith invade deeply into his mind, heart and soul.

Allah Almighty underlined in the Quran the attributes of those who deserve to be called true believers, as Allah says in Noble Quran: “The believers are only those who, when Allah is mentioned, their hearts become fearful, and when His verses are recited to them, it increases them in faith; and upon their Lord they rely. The ones who establish prayer, and from what We have provided them, they spend. Those are the believers, truly. For them are degrees (of high position) with their Lord and forgiveness and noble provision.” (Quran, 8:2-4)

Qualities of True Believers in Islam

To become a Mumin or true believer we need to strive in keeping up with these distinctive qualities which we are going to discuss below in this article:

Believer of Allah Almighty: A true believer or Mumin is such person who believes in Allah Almighty and declares no assistant with Him on everything. We have seen many people saying and believing in Allah Almighty fully yet whenever they are in trouble they seek help from others. This is, in fact, Shirk that people mostly used to do. A true believer or Mumin turns only to Allah Almighty for help and demands only from Him.

Remembrance of Allah (SWT): Muslims always remember Allah Almighty in all his matters and most of the time. Hadith stated that: “Whoever sits and does not mention the Name of Allah (before he rises) will find it a cause of sorrow for Allah. Whoever lies down to sleep and does not mention the name of Allah before rising, will find it a cause of sorrow from Allah” (Abu Dawud). This Hadith gives us suggestion that recalling the name of The Greatest One should be our utmost priority with every passing moment of life if anyone of us wants to become Mumin a true believer.

Saying Salam: Salam not only represents saying Salaam to each other in normal life routine but, in fact, it is an indication towards a situation where an ignorant person tries to have a dispute with other Mumin over any matter. The Mumin instead of showing anger or arguing with him/her, say salaam and move forward. Therefore, it clearly shows that such persons don’t indulge themselves in worthless discussions.

Being Truthful: One of the foremost attributes that are stressed by our religion Islam for gaining the much-needed beautification of one`s personality is adopting the truth and is expected as must do act for every Muslim or true believer. In the Holy Quran, Allah Almighty said: “O you, who have believed, fear Allah and be with those who are true” (Quran, 9: 119).

Avoid Shirk: True believers of Allah Almighty abstain from Shirk. It is the subject matter of Islam and if one can’t follow that he or she shall not be called a Muslim. Allah Almighty will not forgive those who indulge in this act.

Avoid lying and Fraud: True believers of Allah Almighty avoid lying and fraud and don’t go near the evil or places where evil exists. A Mumin doesn’t indulge in evil acts like fraud and lying. These are the acts that Allah (SWT) disliked and Muslims must try to avoid these things for the sake of Allah Almighty.

Noble and Generous: Believers of Allah (SWT) are very noble and generous that if they ever pass by evil gatherings, they just seek their Lord’s refuge and move on. They pray for them to be shown guidance by Allah Almighty.

Role of Simplicity: One of the finest qualities of a true believer is living a simple life. The Quranic teachings emphasize simplicity by associating it with the moral behavior of Muslims in daily life. Allah Almighty says in the Holy Quran: “And do not turn your cheek [in contempt] toward people and do not walk through the earth exultantly. Indeed, Allah does not like everyone self-deluded and boastful.” (Quran, 31: 18)

Strictly Guard their Obligatory Prayers: A true believer does not only observe the five daily prayers but also perform other Nafl prayers standing in the middle of the night. So a Mumin never misses his/her prayer and strictly guard obligatory prayers with optional prayers. In the Holy Quran, Allah Almighty says: “Verily, the prayer is enjoined on the believers at fixed hours.” (Quran, 4:103)

The above mentioned were some of the major qualities of true believers in Islam. May Allah Almighty make us all follow such a straight path and make each of us a true believer or Mumin having these qualities! Ameen.

If you are planning for Hajj and Umrah Packages this year, then contact us for any query. British Haj Travel Ltd is one of the leading Hajj and Umrah travel agency company in the UK. We have the huge range of Umrah packages and Hajj packages. Call us for details: ***0203 9170 99*** 

source: quranreading.com

Two-Month Haj plan unveiled

The General Presidency for the Affairs of the Two Holy Mosques has unveiled its two-month Hajj plan for the upcoming Haj season, stretching from the beginning of the current month until the end of the month of Dhul Hijjah (July-August).

Sheikh Dr Abdulrahman Al-Sudais, chief of the authority, said the presidency was keen to make all early preparations for the Haj season for this year, including a number of services, covering administrative and human resources, guiding, engineering and technical fields.
He also pointed out that the plan during this year’s Haj season is working to achieve a number of goals, including helping pilgrims to perform their duties with utmost ease while making sure that the plan goes on without any hindrance, making all its venues available for the Great Mosque pilgrims and guiding them with wisdom and good advice as well as providing all the necessary services and preparing all the facilities and venues and ensuring they are ready in the best possible way. He also indicated that it was done in partnership and coordination with the relevant institutions, government and security parties headed by the Ministry of Interior and the regions of Makkah and Madinah.

Concerning the pilgrims’ guidance, Sheikh Sudais stressed the availability of a number of important services provided by public administrations including a guidance and advise service that is concerned with raising the awareness of pilgrims and visitors conducting their worship in the most appropriate way and according to legitimate requirements. This includes: workshops conducted by a number of religious figures from sheikhs, instructors and scholars, the distribution of Qur’an copies, pamphlets, religious and advisory books, translation of Friday sermons in the Two Holy Mosques in several languages, and organizing and arranging the visits and salutations to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and his worthy companions (may Allah be pleased with them) as well as arranging the entrance and praying of women in the Prophet’s Mosque without mixing with men.

He also underlined the fact that the foundation has been working on the simultaneous interpretation of Friday sermons in the Holy Mosque and that in 10 languages in addition to organizing all the gates and stairs during the Haj season. There are 210 gates in the Grand Mosque and 100 gates in the Prophet’s Mosque

There is 660 marble Zamzam water fountains and 25,000 water dispensers in the Grand Mosque, 60 fountains and 23,000 water dispensers in the Prophet’s Mosque.


King Abdul Aziz Foundation will also contribute through the renovation of Kiswa (gold-laced cover of the Holy Kaba) and a new cover on Dhul Hijjah 9. 
The number of humidifiers and air fresheners will also be increased in the corridors of the Grand Mosque in order to welcome visitors and worshipers. The air fresheners will be equipped with the finest incense and the best variety of coal which preserves heat without causing any smell or sparks. The air fresheners used are made of colloidal copper and covered with a colloidal perforated silver coat that allows diffusing the incense with all caution.

Efforts are also on to allocate 600 air fans to the Grand Mosque and its squares, 4,500 air fans in the corridors of the Mataf (Kaba circumambulation area) and 250 umbrellas in the Prophet’s Mosque as well as 52,499 carpets in the Two Holy Mosques. — Al Arabiya English

If you are planning for Hajj or Umrah this year, then contact British Haj Travel Ltd and get Luxury Hajj packages and Umrah packages at affordable price. Call at for further details: ***0203 9170 999***

source: saudigazette.com.sa

Common Mistakes Women make during Hajj and Umrah

British Haj Travel Ltd is a Hajj Guide with a reputable Hajj and Umrah Traveling Agency in the United Kingdom.

MISTAKE #1: Thinking that their Ihram is the ‘cap’ they wear over their head.

Some Muslimahs do not know what iḥrām means and they think it’s the cap that they put on over their hair, They don’t take it off no matter what, thinking they will “break their iḥrām”. Iḥrām is a state that you enter into and putting on any item of clothing when you enter into the state of iḥrām does not mean that you cannot take it off later. And taking it off does NOT mean that you ended your iḥrām. That’s why the ‘ulemā’ say we can change our iḥrām (meaning our clothes), and even wash it if it gets dirty.

“It is permissible for the pilgrim in iḥrām for Hajj or Umrah to change his iḥrām clothes and put on another set of iḥrām clothes, and that does not affect his iḥrām for Hajj or ‘Umrah.” (Standing Committee for Academic Research and Issuing Fatwas, Fataawa al-Lajnah, 11/185)

MISTAKE #2: Excessive fear of breaking their hair.

Some women have an excessive fear of breaking their hair. So much so that they don’t take off their scarf/dupatta/hijāb, even when they’re by themselves or among just women. They are so worried about their hair breaking, that they don’t even take off their headpiece for making wuḍū’. This is a trick of the Shaytān. Think about it. If you don’t do wuḍū’ properly, would your prayer be valid? Would your tawāf be valid? Do you really think Allāh would hold you accountable if you did something that was not in your control? No of course not. He is The Most Merciful. He is the Most Forgiving. Then, why would He nullify your iḥrām just because a few hairs fell out on their own, something that was out of your control! The prohibition is for the hair to be cut, plucked, shaved, etc. on purpose. Not involuntarily.

MISTAKE #3: Getting their hair cut only by someone who has exited Ihram

Many women think that ONLY the one who isNOT in iḥrām can cut their hair, once they’ve finished with their rituals. And they refuse to cut their own hair to exit iḥrāmnor do they allow another sister who has not yet exited iḥrām to cut it for them, thinking that she is not allowed to do that for them. This is a wrong notion. Actually, if you think about it, you are supposed to cut your hair when you finish with all the rituals.

The Prophet (ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi Wa Sallam) commanded his companions, during the Farewell Pilgrimage:

“Let him cut his (meaning, his own) hair then exit ihram.” (al-Bukhari, Muslim)

MISTAKE #4: Not going to the Jamarat or Muzdalifah

Some of us delegate another hajji to throw the pebbles on our behalf for no valid reason. We get scared of the crowd or sometimes, get plain old lazy, not understanding the importance of doing it themselves, even if they are able.

Māshā’Allāh, Allāh has blessed us with health. Alḥamdulillāh, we are young, energetic, confident, and capable. We are able to do anything and everything when we are back home and yet when it comes to Hajj and theJamarāt, all of a sudden we become “frail, little weaklings who cannot go throw the pebbles”.

Don’t be lazy about the rituals of Hajj. Realize the significance of doing everything yourself if you have the ability. There’s no need to be scared at all. Yes, many years ago, we heard horror stories of stampedes, and people suffocating or hurting themselves. But not anymore, Alḥamdulillāh the Saudi government has renovated the whole Jamarāt complex a few years ago and it is the easiest thing in the world. I have seen old people in wheelchairs, people on crutches, and kids as little as 3 and 4 years old, throwing the pebbles themselves.

If there is a lot of crowds or your safety is an issue, it can be delayed.

“It is permissible to delay their (meaning women) stoning of the Jamarāt until the crowding is less or has stopped, and there is nothing wrong with them doing that.” (Fatawa Shaykh Uthaymeen)

Although it is allowed for women to leave Muzdhalifah after half the night has passed if there is an excuse such as sickness, weakness, or just because we are women. BUT, it is better if you do stay the whole night following the Sunnah of the Prophet (ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi Wa Sallam). So don’t chicken out.

MISTAKE #5: Crowding with the men

Beware of crowding with men in all the rituals of Hajj, especially during ṭawāf and at the Black Stone, during Sa’i and when stoning the Jamarat. Choose times when there is less crowding. Think about it. Touching the Black Stone is a beautiful Sunnah, but it is a sunnah. And protecting yourself and your hayā’ from coming in unnecessary contact with all non-mahram men is a FARDH.

The Mother of Believers, ‘Aishah used to do ṭawāf in an area away from the men, and she did not touch the Black Stone or the Yemeni Corner if there was crowding.

It was narrated that ‘Ata’ said:

‘Aishah used to do ṭawaf far away from the men, not mixing with them.” A woman said: “O Mother of the Believers, let us go and touch the Black Stone!” She said: “Go yourself,” and she refused to go.

In my opinion, the best place for us women to do ṭawaf is up on the roof of the Masjid. Now it may seem like a big distance from far, but I promise you, all it takes is an hour and 10 minutes, to be precise, to complete a ṭawaf, walking at an average pace.

Now the Shayṭan may play with your mind and make it seem like a lot. But then ask yourself this… don’t you easily, easily, walk an hour ten minutes in the mall?

MISTAKE # 6: Rushing through ‘Ibadah. Remember it’s about quality, not quantity

Remember that Allah will look at the quality of your worship, NOT your quantity. And that’s why our deeds will be weighed on the Day of Judgment and not counted. If you pray just two rakʿah with khushu‘, concentrating on what you are saying, beseeching Allah with humility, wouldn’t that be better and more acceptable to Allāh than even 50 or even a 100 rakʿah quickly pecking the ground, without knowing a word of what you are saying?

Every time you do any ‘ibādah, check to see whether you have khushoo or not? Are you focused on what you are doing? Do you know the meaning of what you are saying or asking? Are you moving at a slow, measured pace or are you rushing through it?

Remember what the Prophet (ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi Wa Sallam), said:

“The worst type of thief is the one who steals from his prayer!” The Companions asked, “O Messenger of Allah! How does one steal from his prayers?” The Prophet (ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi Wa Sallam), responded,

“He does not complete his bowing, nor his prostrations.” Or he said “He does not straighten his backbone while bowing and prostrating.” (Ahmed, Al-Tabarani, others–authentic)

MISTAKE #7: Misbehaving in the Masjid of the Prophet

One of the worst mistakes that I see the sisters making is at the Prophet’s (ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi Wa Sallam) Masjid. When the doors are opened, in the morning and evening, for the sisters so that they can visit the Raudah of the Prophet (ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi Wa Sallam), they totally lose all sense of who they are, where they are and what they are doing. They run like wild animals let loose, shouting and screaming in ignorance, pushing each other, trampling anyone and everyone that comes in their way.

SubḥānAllāh sisters! Is this what the Prophet (ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi Wa Sallam), taught us?! Is this the way you behave in a Masjid, let alone the Prophet (ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi Wa Sallam)’s Masjid?! Is this the respect he (ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi Wa Sallam), deserves from you?

Remember when visiting the Prophet (ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi Wa Sallam),’s Masjid, to behave with honor and dignity, with the Hayaa‘ that Allah has adorned you with, as a believing Muslim woman would. Remember to keep your voice soft and your walk paced. Don’t shove, push, harm or hurt your fellow Muslim sisters. Even if you didn’t get a chance to pray in that area, if you let your sister pray there for the sake of Allah just because she is your Muslim sister, Allah will reward you, and He knows best, perhaps even more than He would have, had you yourself had a chance to pray there. 

MISTAKE #8: Wasting precious time in mina

I see so many sisters wasting their time talking with each other, about nothing specific, mingling and socializing with the other Hajjis, while they are staying in Mina and even on the day of Arafah, which is the most important day of Hajj. They forget that these are the most blessed days in which ibadah is dearest to Allah. They forget that Mina is not a place to socialize; rather it is a place for ibadah and dhikr and istighfar and du‘a’. They forget that Day of Arafah is THE DAY for Hajj. That’s what this whole journey is all about. Instead of remembering Allah, they busy themselves with idle talk, laughing, joking, even gheebah and gossip.

Now, there’s nothing wrong with talking for a little bit and to inquire about each other’s well being, etc. In fact, it becomes an act of ibādah if you talk with that niyyah of being kind and polite to your fellow Muslim or for taking a little rest in between your ibadah to refresh yourself. But when this talking takes over one’s time and this is what a person is doing the majority of the time in Mina, then it becomes anaa serious issue of wasting precious time. And in the end, no one loses but you.

MISTAKE # 9: Being uncovered in Muzdalifah

Muzdalifah is an open ground and there are no tents, etc and the bathrooms are in an open field. When the sisters make wuḍu’ there, they forget that they are in an open area and there are men everywhere who can see them. Yet, they take off their ḥijabs and dupattas right in front of them to make wuḍu’, thus exposing themselves. So how does one make wuḍu’ in such a situation?

There is an easy solution to all of this. Whenever you need to make wuḍu’, go with a few women as a group and take turns making wuḍu’ while the others can hold up a piece of cloth, ḥijab, etc in such a way as to cover you and hide you completely. This way no one can see you, insha'Allah.

May Allah enable us to perform Hajj according to the Sunnah of the Prophet (ṣallallāhu ‘alayhi Wa Sallam), in a manner that is most pleasing to Him. May Allah accept this Hajj from all of us and make it Mabroor. Ameen.

If you are planning for Hajj and Umrah this year, Then you contact us for cheap Hajj and Umrah package deals from the UK. British Haj Travel Ltd have the huge range of Hajj packages and Umrah packages at affordable price. 

Call us for details: ***0203 9170 999***

source: muslimmatters.org

Working Women: Problems and Difficulties

There are many problems and difficulties facing working women, including the following:

• The difficulty of combining work and household chores.

• Inappropriate workplace, housing, and transportation.

• Lack of nurseries and kindergartens in or near the facilities or residential areas, or lack of affordable childcare that is not commensurate with women's income.

• Indecent behaviors by males, whether at work or on the way to and from work, or harassment of women workers during night shifts or household chores (for domestic workers).

• The harshness of working conditions for some women, especially in rural areas, whether due to natural geographical circumstances or the nature of hard physical work in agriculture, factories and others even if they are for a wage.

• The impact of some works on the health of working mothers in some sectors, including the chemical sector.

• Interference in the peculiarities of women in terms of shape, dress, the manner of speaking, appointments, or visits by the employer, some of the workers, or the family.

• Fear of spinsterhood; it is an important problem that upsets many working women because of the perception of inferiority towards them that is still prevalent to this day, though it has begun subsiding at present.

• Long working hours: Long working hours disturb working women because this leads to permanent default in family duties, due to lack of their presence and supervision of their families, especially in the early stages of childhood, where the child needs the permanent and direct care of his mother. However, overcoming this problem or minimizing its disadvantages can be done through providing nurseries and chambers of care in workplaces with reasonable prices that cover the operational needs, as well as employing trained babysitters to supervise them. Thus, women can be able to assure and observe their children from time to time, especially in cases of illness, in addition to spending times with them in times of rest or lunch. This is an important service implemented in many developed countries that care for women and family status. Unfortunately, what we observe in many hospitals and health centers or any public institution is the lack of the nurseries or childcare rooms in the workplace. Working mothers have the right to ensure a safe place where they can put and access their children regardless of the length of working hours.

• 10-Nurseries: we hear a lot about the bad treatment of children in nurseries and its reliance on ordinary employees who find it difficult to control a large number of children only by intimidation, having the negative psychological impact on them, especially if they are too young.

Also, the number of children, their age and needs for care cause problems and constraints for working women, such as the enduring sense of dereliction and guilt towards her children due to her absence, along with other problems such as the inability to provide them with the affordable domestic servants due to the poor financial condition. If we conduct field studies on the reasons of sudden absence of women at work, we would find that most of them are limited to childhood illness and servants delusion, or because working women do not trust them.

If you are for Hajj and Umrah this year, Then you contact us for cheap Hajj and Umrah package deals from the UK. British Haj Travel Ltd have the huge range of Hajj packages and Umrah packages at affordable price. Call us for details: ***0203 9170 999***

source: islamicstudies.islammessage.com

Rights of Daughters in Islam

Daughters are the blessing of Allah Almighty. Before the advent of Islam, girls were treated very badly in Arab society. Father of a daughter used to feel shame when a girl born to him. Arab society used to bury girls alive in order to get rid of the shame. At the time of darkness when people used to treat girls very badly, Islam came and gave rights to women, sisters, daughters, wives and especially to little girls who were affected badly.

Allah Almighty says in the Noble Quran: “To Allah belong the dominion of the heavens and the earth; He creates what He wills. He gives to whom He wills female [children], and He gives to whom He wills males. Or He makes them [both] males and females, and He renders whom He wills barren. Indeed, He is Knowing and Competent” (Quran, 49:50). This Ayah of the Holy Quran shows that Allah Almighty has the right or will to give whatever He wants to whom He wants to give. Allah is the One, based on His ultimate wisdom, who grants whomever He wills sons and daughters. He grants sons only to whomever He wills and daughters only to whomever He wills.

Prophet Muhammad (SAW) had 4 daughters and was of the opinion that raising daughters were considered as sacred in Islam. Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said in one of His hadith about the upbringing of daughters in these words: “If someone has three daughters and is patient with them and clothes them from his wealth, they will be a shield against Fire for him.”

Rights and Duties of Daughters

Islam came into being and granted rights to women as a daughter, sister, and wife. Islam also created some responsibilities for them which are mentioned below:

• Islam gave equal rights to women as men and describe that there is no discrimination against them.
• Islam gave them rights of education. They can get an education just like men and can also work for their family.
• They have the right to their father’s property. Her share is half of her brother’s share in the property.
• She has a right of Khula if she is not satisfied with her marriage and husband.
• Islam gave them the right to receive love and best maintenance from parents, brother, and husband.
• A daughter always belongs to the paternal family. Marriage does not break this bond. The Islamic social order makes detailed arrangements for fair treatment of the daughter.
• Taking care of them, educating them, liberating them and training them for tomorrow and a better life all comes under the responsibility of parents to their daughters.
• They have the right to choose her husband. The father is not allowed to oblige her to marry a certain person without her wish.
• Islam gave her the right to speak and express her views and ideas in front of the public.
• Anas (RA) reported that the Prophet (SAW) said: “He who raises two daughters until their puberty will be with me in Paradise like this” and he symbolized the proximity by showing two of his fingers with a slight gap between them.” (Muslim)
• Daughter has a responsibility or duty to cover herself properly to live safely in the society.
• She has a duty to keep the dignity of herself.
• She has to take care of her family.
• She has to loyal to her husband after getting married.
• She has to be in limits when it’s a matter of Na-mahram.

These were some rights and duties of daughters according to religion Islam that every Muslim should know and fulfill. If someone wants to know about the honor of daughters then it is enough of an honor for girls that the Prophets (SAW), had daughters and that most of the children of our beloved Prophet (SAW) were daughters. So when you have a daughter don’t get upset instead be happy and celebrate this joy with all your family members and friends as daughters are the blessing of Allah Almighty. May Allah protect all our daughters and sister and blessed them with all the happiness of the world. Ameen!

If you are for Hajj and Umrah this year, Then you contact us for cheap Hajj and Umrah package deals from the UK. We have the huge range of Hajj packages and Umrah packages at affordable price. Call us for details: ***0203 9170 999***

source: quranreading.com

Five Pillars of Islam - Social Importance and Benefits

Islamic structure has a solid foundation just like every sound structure have a solid foundation in order to remain strong. Islam’s solid foundation is the five pillars, forming the basis of Islamic teaching as taught by Prophet Muhammad (SAW). The Five Pillars of Islam are the five obligations that every Muslim must satisfy in order to live a great and responsible life according to Islam.

The Five Pillars of Islam enclose the basic moral obligations for Muslims which we all should follow and act upon them. Those who inspect the basics of Islam are usually told about the “Five Pillars” of the religion Islam. These five pillars of Islam have the great impact on Muslim’s life.

1. Islam is built upon the Five Pillars of Islam which are as follows:
2. The Declaration of Faith (Shahadah)
3. Salah (Establishing regular Prayers)
4. Zakat (Paying charity)
5. Sawm (Fasting in the month of Ramadan)
6. Hajj

Now we will discuss these five pillars of Islam in detail about their importance, benefits and how they affect the Muslim’s life.

(1)

• Shahadah: The first pillar of Islam is the confession of faith; there is no God but Allah and Muhammad (SAW) is His last Prophet. Under this pillar, all other obligations are incorporated, for to believe in Allah and Muhammad (SAW) as His Prophet is to obey their teachings and the example of Muhammad’s life. We can also say that sincerely reciting the Muslim undertaking of faith is Shahadah. It must be based on a sincere and firm belief from the heart, as well as being expressed verbally. The declaration of the first pillar has two parts; the first part of the declaration signifies that no person, object or vitality has the right to be worshipped except Allah alone. Allah alone has the power over all things because He is the only Creator and Sustainer of all that exists in this world. Allah has no partner without any doubt. The second part of the declaration is that Muhammad (SAW) is Allah’s final Messenger. He is the last and final Prophet in a long chain of Prophets sent to call the people to the obedience and worship of Allah alone.

One will become a true Muslim only if he/she will utter Shahadah and also accept it by heart.

(2)

• Salah: The second pillar is prayer (Salah). Muslims are expected to engage in prayer five times a day, facing Mecca. Prayer provides a pattern of Muslim life. Muslims hope to please Allah by remembering him constantly by offering prayer regularly. Salah is basically performing practice prayers in a proper way five times daily. In Quran Allah Almighty says: “Indeed, I am Allah! There is none worthy of worship but I, so worship Me and offer the prayer for My remembrance” (Quran 20:14). Our beloved Prophet Muhammad (SAW) said: “Prayer is a pillar of the religion (Islam). Whoever establishes it, establishes a religion; and whoever destroys it (neglects it), destroys religion.” So we can say it is obligatory on every Muslim to offer prayer five times a day for the sake of Almighty Allah and also if you want to complete your faith. After Shahadah, it is the most important pillar of Islam.

Benefits of Salah

• Prayer establishes a personal and spiritual connection between the Muslim and his Creator based on faith and love
• It will have an enduring effect on the person, filling his heart with contentment, peace, and closeness with Allah
• Through prayer, Muslim remembers the greatness of his Creator and supplicates to Him for his needs and wishes
• Repeatedly humbling oneself before Allah prevents a person from falling into sin
• Salah is the type of purification for one’s soul
• Salah is an opportunity for repentance and seeking forgiveness from Allah

When Salah is performed correctly with complete concentration, humility, and sincerity, it will have an enduring effect on the person, filling his heart with contentment, peace, and closeness with Allah. We should pray five times a day if we want to close to Allah and should make Dua in front of Him for anything for any cause He will absolutely listen and fulfill.

(3)

• Zakat: Zakat is paying an alms (or charity) to benefit the poor and the needy people for the sake of Almighty Allah. The meaning of the word “Zakat”, is both ‘purification’ and ‘growth’. Muslims are required to give at least 2.5 percent of their annual capital to the poor, either directly or through Muslim charitable organizations. Giving to the poor is intended to achieve a generous lifestyle and a sense of caring for the Muslim community, especially those lacking physical and financial means. We as a Muslim believe that if we give poor or needy people from our income and wealth then we will become trustworthy to Almighty Allah. As Allah (SWT) mentioned in Holy Quran: “Those who establish the prayer (Salah) and give the charity (Zakat) these are the ones who will prosper” (Quran, 31:4-5). The Prophet (PBUH) said: “Allah has made Zakat obligatory simply to purify your remaining wealth.” By fulfilling this obligation, Muslims purify their remaining wealth, as well as ensure both financial and spiritual growth.

Benefits of Paying Zakat

• Purify one’s heart from greediness, selfishness, and arrogance
• Made people be sympathetic and compassionate towards needy and poor
• Reminds blessings of Allah and encourage to be grateful to Almighty Allah
• Reduce poverty from society and balance the gap between different socio-economic classes and groups.

If someone wants to give more than specified that is 2.5 percent then he can give if he has a will to do more for needy people for pleasing Almighty Allah.

(4)

• Sawm: Sawm is fasting during the month of Ramadan for Almighty Allah because it is the Holy month of Allah. Fasting involves refraining from such things as food, tobacco, and sexual relations during daylight hours. One should also abstain from all sinful actions. These periods of fasting are to encourage and enable Muslims to develop self-control, to oppress bad habits, and to refocus their minds towards personal spiritual progress. Allah Almighty said in the Holy Quran:”Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may attain piety” (Quran, 2:183). As with any act of worship, fasting requires obedience and submission to Allah’s commands through the highest degree of commitment and sincerity. Fasting during Ramadan is obligatory on every physically and mentally capable adult Muslim. Children, the sick, the mentally unfit, the elderly, menstruating women, and travelers are privileged.

Benefits of Fasting

• Promotes self-purification and spiritual growth
• Fasting has health benefits it is proven scientifically
• Forgiveness of sins
• Purifies the soul and helps it acquire obeying Almighty Allah by restraining desires, and promotes steadfastness
• Create awareness about the state of affairs across the globe and the hardships encounter
• Fasting is a mean of learning self-restraint and patience

(5)

• Hajj: The fifth pillar is Pilgrimage. All Muslims are expected to make a pilgrimage to Mecca at least once in their lifetime if their finances and health grant. During the pilgrimage, Muslims dress in white garments and remove all indicators of status or class. This practice is intended to help Muslims recognize that before Allah they are all equal. Racial, gender and economic differences are subdued as commonalty of Muslims from many nations bow together to worship Allah. Performing the pilgrimage is a temporary suspension of all worldly activities, and is a time for one to reflect, worship, seek the forgiveness of Allah and attain His closeness. In Holy Quran Allah (SWT) says: “And Hajj (pilgrimage to Makah) to the House (Kabah) is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, for those who can afford the expenses (for one’s transportation, provision, and residence)” (Quran, 3:97). This great act of worship consists of many components including sacrificing an animal, supplicating, visiting and praying at various sites, circling the Kabah, walking between two mountains, as well as many other rituals, all of which are performed over a period of 6 continuous days. During Hajj Brotherhood is increased, as is the sense that all Muslims, regardless of their differences, are one nation.

The five pillars of Islam have been prescribed by Allah, and a Muslim is required to believe and act according to them. They are practical as well as easy, and the blessings and wisdom behind them are multiple. Carrying out the Five Pillars demonstrates that the Muslims are putting their faith first, and not just trying to fit it in around their worldly lives. These five pillars provide the solid structure for the betterment and success of all humanity. It’s obligatory on us (Muslims) to practice these in our lives for getting benefits in this life and the Hereafter. 

If you are planning for Hajj or Umrah this year, then contact us because of British Haj Travel Ltd is one of the leading Hajj and Umrah travel agency company in the UK. We have the huge range of Hajj packages and Umrah packages with all inclusive facilities. Call us for further details at ***0203 9170 999***

source: quranreading.com

Lowering the Gaze and Protecting Marriage Life

"lowering the gaze" is a divine order for both sexes, contemplate the following verse in Surat Al Noor:

"‏‏قُل لِّلْمُؤْمِنِينَ يَغُضُّوا مِنْ أَبْصَارِهِمْ وَيَحْفَظُوا فُرُوجَهُمْ ذَلِكَ أَزْكَى لَهُمْ إِنَّ اللَّهَ خَبِيرٌ بِمَا يَصْنَعُونَ*وَقُل لِّلْمُؤْمِنَاتِ يَغْضُضْنَ مِنْ أَبْصَارِهِنَّ وَيَحْفَظْنَ فُرُوجَهُنَّ وَلَا يُبْدِينَ زِينَتَهُنَّ إِلَّا مَا ظَهَرَ مِنْهَا" (النور: 30)

Interpretation: "Tell the believing men to reduce [some] of their vision and guard their private parts. That is purer for them. Indeed, Allah is Acquainted with what they do." (24:30)

Did you notice that Allah ordered men to lower their gaze on seeing what is illegal to look at and save their private parts, and He ordered women as well to do the same thing?

Did you notice that order of lowering the gaze was mentioned before the order of protecting the private parts; eyes are a gate of the heart, and a window of the soul. It was narrated that the Prophet, peace is upon him, said: "...The Zina of the eye is the (lustful) look ... the heart yearns and desires and the private parts approve all that or disapprove it." [Sahih Al-Bukhari and Muslim]

Lowering the gaze is a blessing

Some people regard this command as a difficult task, especially in a world dominated by images as our world today, but the truth is that it is a great blessing.

It's a great blessing to live life with all ambition, work, and transactions, without absorbing these scenes around you or allowing them to invade your heart and soul, or manipulate your desire and feelings.

It's a great blessing to have an internal safety valve that prevents you from indulging your heart in illegal scenes.

It's a great blessing to have a life partner that fills your eyes and pleases your heart.

All these blessings are received when you lower your gaze. No one stares at prohibited things and can feel such happiness.

Lowering the gaze protect you from being insatiable. It does not mean to live isolated and does not look at the way, as portrayed by some, rather it is just as our Prophet, peace be upon him, said: "Do not give a second look" (Hasan according to Al-Albani)

The sinful action intended here is starting to prohibited images, releasing of imagination, and allowing what you saw to manipulate your mind and heart.

Comparison issue

When such images gather in your imagination and mind, you unconsciously begin to compare your spouse too many images stuck in your imagination that formed what looks like the ideal model! Indeed, it's an injustice to compare your spouse to a world of misleading images, which are often fabricated, or subject to the direction, modification, and editing. Even if they are real, your brain captures them, therefore, your heart begins to weave imaginary feelings that drive you to blind love.

source: islamicstudies.islammessage.com