A successful Haj

source: whatisislamabout.com

A successful Haj

THE 2016 Haj season recently concluded with the pilgrims and officials alike terming it a safe, convenient and successful Haj— all the ingredients that go into the recipe called success. All pilgrims performed their fifth pillar rituals in peace and security. It was by far a very smooth Haj that concluded with no accidents. The sight of 1.8 million pilgrims traveling in unison to the holy sites at specified times, gathering and praying to Allah, was breathtaking. We all wish these pilgrims a safe journey back home and we are looking forward to host millions of pilgrims to perform their rituals in peace next year.

What was amazing about this year’s Haj, which is a seamless continuation of last year’s edition, the year before and previous ones, is the participation of our youth to serve the guests of Allah. We have seen them in all ages, men and women, not hesitating to provide any and every help the pilgrims may need. The concept of volunteering to serve pilgrims at holy sites only shows that our youth’s sense of responsibility is growing. The hard work they displayed at the holy sites is only an indication that a bright future is awaiting this country when this generation comes of age and joins the workforce by bringing this quality of hard work to their careers. I have seen and been told by many who performed Haj this year that our scouts played an important and vital role in providing guidance to lost pilgrims, helping families to find their missing children and loved ones and transporting injured and older pilgrims on wheelchair.

Our security officers — the eyes that never sleep — should be thanked for their efforts to ensure a safe and smooth Haj. In every corner, they were there watching, round the clock, and organizing the pilgrims’ movements in sync with the established plans for various sites. Despite bound by their duty, they went beyond the call of duty to assist those in need. They even carried pilgrims on their backs if they were not able to walk. We have seen hundreds of pictures and many video clips of officers providing assistance to those in need without them knowing that they were being filmed or photographed. They seek no reward but the reward from Allah to serve His guests with honor.

We have seen tired police officers and security forces beat their exhaustion with a quick shuteye and are back on their feet for yet another round of selfless service. They rest or sleep under bridges on the hard concrete in hot weather for a brief period and come back rejuvenated before joining the line of their fellow officers to organize, guide and protect pilgrims. The scene on the last day of Haj as pilgrims were exiting Mina with the officers standing on the side of the road waving goodbye to pilgrims was a heart-rending one, especially with the pilgrims greeting the officers back and some shaking their hands. In addition many were praying to Allah that they would come back one day to perform the pilgrimage again, while officers wished them a safe journey back home.

The Health Ministry played an integral role in this year’s Haj by providing treatment for sick and infirm pilgrims and even transporting and accompanying sick pilgrims all the way across the holy sites with a complete medical team, until they completed their pilgrimage. I watched the other day a special coverage on the efforts by the Health Ministry through the Snapchat account of Fares Al-Turki, Saudi entrepreneur, who revealed the whole gamut of the ministry’s efforts in keeping the pilgrims healthy and safe. He said that heart catheterization and open-heart surgeries are taking place alongside the prompt treatment for light and sunstroke cases.
While Al-Turki was filming, a doctor said that they had performed 27 open-heart surgeries on pilgrims and 300 heart catheterization operations.
Pilgrims who come form poor countries take advantage of the free medical services provided to pilgrims to get these operations done at no cost. It is said that some of the machines installed in the heart of pilgrims cost more than SR100,000 and it is provided free to pilgrims. The government, represented by the Health Ministry here, does not ask for their nationalities or where they come from, but provide all help to keep the pilgrims safe and healthy.

We thank all the other related authorities that participated in contributing to the success of this year’s Haj, all in their posts, working diligently and selflessly. I cannot highlight the services of every individual or authority as the space for this article is limited to mention all their efforts. But we acknowledge their efforts that energized the journey of a lifetime for a pilgrim. At the same time, we feel sorry for the Iranian pilgrims, who were deprived by their own government from performing Haj this year. We wish that Iran would come to its senses, if they have any, and finally understand that Haj is not a political occasion to push their ideology, but a spiritual journey of devotees and many stages of servitude in their worship of Allah.

The authorities are to be thanked that the squatting problem, which was a major one in the past, has dropped dramatically this year following a clampdown on illegal pilgrims. The numbers are also down sharply due to the awareness campaign on squatting as a problem and the tough punishment imposed on violating people.
Our aim to serve the guests of Allah will continue forever and whatever suggestions for improvement or ways to better serve pilgrims will be implemented next year. The only thing I wish is to see next year is the cost of performing Haj to drop to an affordable level. Once again all our thanks to those who participated and made sure that our guests are safe and sound.

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Source: saudigazette.com.sa

Over 1.3m arrive for Haj

dailymail.co.uk

Over 1.3m arrive for Haj

MAKKAH — As many as 1,323,520 pilgrims have arrived from various parts of the world to perform this year’s Haj, which climaxes on Sunday with the Standing on Arafat.

According to Director General of the Passports Department (Jawazat) Maj. Gen. Solaiman Al-Yahya, 1,245,203 pilgrims have arrived by air through King Abdulaziz International Airport in Jeddah and Prince Muhammad Bin Abdul Aziz International Airport in Madinah.

He said 65,594 pilgrims have arrived by land from neighboring countries and the rest by sea through various seaports, mainly the Jeddah Islamic Seaport.

Al-Yahya said that 216 foreign pilgrims who did not observe Haj instructions were sent back to their respective countries. The violations included forging of 52 passports.

Under the instructions of Crown Prince Muhammad Bin Naif, deputy premier, interior minister and the chairman of the Supreme Haj committee, any external pilgrim with valid Haj permit who arrives late for valid reasons such as flight delay will be received and rushed to Makkah.

Meanwhile, Hashim Al-Falih, chairman of the Haj Preparation Committee at the Makkah Governorate, said that 189,000 people who attempted to enter Makkah and the Holy Sites were sent back from checkpoints since the beginning of the Haj season until Thursday.

He said the violating Saudi pilgrims will face imprisonment and fines while expatriates will face the same punishment and deportation.

Falih, who is adviser to Makkah Emir Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, said 48,000 vehicles transporting illegal pilgrims were confiscated and 22 fake Haj companies sealed.

The Ministry of Haj and Umrah has warned that those domestic pilgrims who have registered for Haj and paid the fees but did not go for the pilgrimage will not get their money back.

“There will not be any reimbursement of fees for domestic pilgrims who are not in Makkah or the Holy Sites for Haj by Friday,” the ministry said in a statement.

However, those intending pilgrims who informed the ministry about their change of mind by Dhul Hijjah 3 (Sept. 5) will be reimbursed with a 40 percent deduction. But those who informed on Dhul Hijjah 6 (Sept. 8) that they won’t be performing Haj will be reimbursed with a deduction of 70 percent.

Source: saudigazette.com.sa

More than 707,000 pilgrims visit Madinah

saudigazette.com.sa

More than 707,000 pilgrims visit Madinah

MADINAH — A total of 707,685 pilgrims visited Madinah since the start of the Haj season until Monday, the Saudi Press Agency (SPA) reported on Tuesday quoting a statistical report of the Private Establishment of Guides.

As many as 592,514 pilgrims have already left for Makkah while 115,094 are still present in the Prophet’s city. As many as 114,000 pilgrims will be sent to Makkah Wednesday.

According to the statistics, 10,956 contracts were signed by various departments to accommodate the visiting pilgrims in 590 hotels and furnished apartments.

It said 67 pilgrims are presently confined to hospitals for medical treatment.

Source: saudigazette.com.sa

Over 600,000 pilgrims to visit Madinah before Haj

Over 600,000 pilgrims to visit Madinah before Haj

MAKKAH — More than 600,000 pilgrims are expected to visit Madinah to pay homage to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) and pray at his mosque, according to Hatim Qadi, spokesman for the Ministry of Haj 2016 and Umrah 2016.

He said the pilgrims started arriving in Madinah on Thursday. “On that day, 60 Haj flights landed at Prince Muhammad Bin Abdul Aziz International Airport in Madinah,” he added.

The spokesman said 14 lounges have been prepared at the airport to receive the pilgrims who will be served by 42 passport counters.

Qadi said all government and private establishments are geared to receive the pilgrims and provide them with the best services that will help them perform their acts of worship in peace and comfort.

He explained that nine establishments are providing services to the pilgrims. Representatives of six Tawafa establishments, the Unified Zamzam Office in Makkah, the Unified Office of Agents receive them on arrival at the entry points, in addition to the Establishment of Guides in Madinah.

Qadi said the number of pilgrims this year is expected to be similar to last year as the cut in the quota system is still being applied.

Since the 2013 Haj, the Saudi government has decided to enforce a reduction in the number of pilgrims permitted for each country under a quota system approved by the Organization of Islamic Cooperation (OIC) to allow expansion work at the Grand Mosque in Makkah.

The request to reduce the number of pilgrims from abroad by a fifth and from inside the country by half was approved by the OIC and the country’s religious leadership. The Supreme Judicial Council said the reduction in pilgrim numbers was legitimate to ensure safety while work was carried out to allow more pilgrims in future.

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Haj and Umrah announced on Sunday that the electronic registration of domestic pilgrims is continuing smoothly after a delay of two days during which many pilgrims were not able to access the service.

The ministry said the fault in the system resulted from heavy pressure because a large number of people attempted to register at the same time.
The ministry said more than 30,000 pilgrims have registered so far.

Source: saudigazette.com.sa

The quest for true happiness

The quest for true happiness

HAPPINESS is the ultimate goal in life for almost all of us. It is the motive behind every action that is taken in this world.

People eat, shop, study, work, marry or sometimes fall into forbidden relationships, go on vacations, throw lavish parties and sometimes go to weird, forbidden extremes just for the pursuit of happiness and delight. Eventually, there comes a time when they realize that these feelings are short-lived, temporary and bound to end at some point. So the question that arises is; what is it that gives one the feeling of everlasting happiness? What is it that would tend to make the heart content and at ease despite the day to day tests and hardships that life throws our way?

Simply put, true happiness is in realizing the purpose for which we were created. It is in worshipping the One who created us, that gives the hearts contentment and delight. It is in doing every action with the sole intention of gaining Allah’s pleasure, avoiding His Anger while following in the footsteps of His beloved Messenger (peace be upon him).

Imam Ibn Al-Qayyim, said, “In the heart are disorders that cannot be remedied except by responding to Allah. In it is a desolate feeling that cannot be removed except by intimacy with Him in solitude. In it is sadness which will not leave except by happiness of knowing Him and truthfulness in his dealings. In it is anxiety that is not made tranquil except by gathering for His sake and fleeing to Him from His punishment. In it is a fire of regret which cannot be extinguished except by satisfaction with His commands, prohibitions, and decrees, and embracing patience with that until the time he meets Him. In it is a strong desire that will not cease until He is the only one who is sought. In it is a void that cannot be filled except by His love, turning to Him, always remembering Him, and being sincere to Him. Were a person to be given the entire world and everything in it, that would never fill the void.” (Madarij Al-Salikeen)

No doubt, this is the only reason our hearts are so much at peace and our souls so exuberant during Ramadan. It is because we spend the whole month busy in doing what we were created to do! We feel happy despite staying without food and water all day and despite exerting ourselves for extra prayer and worship.

We can actually maintain this state of peace and contentment throughout the year if we persist in continuing all the good acts that we do during Ramadan. The Creator and Master of everything that exists says in His Glorious Book: “Those who believe, and whose hearts find contentment in the remembrance of Allah: for without doubt in the remembrance of Allah do hearts find contentment.” (Qur’an 13:28)

The contentment and openness of the heart are aspects of happiness which are achieved through keeping up the remembrance of Allah and through following the teachings of the Qur’an. It is something that instills happiness in us not just during the moments in which it is done but also later on. This is because; every type of pleasure is enjoyed only once, except for (the acts of) worship, which is enjoyed three times: when you do it, when you remember it, and when you are given the reward for it. (Abd-Allah ibn Wahb)

Allah tells us in more than one place in the Qur’an that the faces of the ones who believed and did righteous acts for His sake will be glowing with happiness and delight. He says: “(Some) faces, that Day, will be bright — Laughing, rejoicing at good news (of reward and Jannah).” (Qur’an 80:38-39).

“Faces, that Day, will show pleasure. With their effort (they are) satisfied. In an elevated garden (Jannah)…” (Qur’an 88:9-11)

As believers we need to know and have strong belief in the fact that life will not be a bed of roses for long and that we will be tested and tried till we reach our graves. If we look at the people around us, we will see people who are being tested in one way or the other. It will be either by missing out on something that they like, or going through that which they dislike.

Ibn Mas’ood (may Allah be pleased with him) rightly said: For every moment of joy there is a moment of sorrow, and no house is filled with joy but it will be filled with sorrow.

Beautiful is the dua that the Prophet (peace be upon him) taught us. He said, “If any Muslim is afflicted with distress and makes this dua, then his supplication will be answered: ‘O Allah, I am your servant, the son of your servant, the son of your maidservant. My forelock is in your hand, your command concerning me prevails, and your decision concerning me is just. I call upon you by every one of the beautiful names with which you have described yourself, or which you have revealed in your Book, or you have taught to anyone of your creatures, or which you have chosen to keep in the knowledge of the unseen with you, to make the Qur’an the delight of my heart, the light of my chest, the remover of my sadness and dispeller of my anxiety.’”

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “If he says this, Allah will remove his affliction and replace it with joy and happiness.” His They said, “O Messenger of Allah, should we not learn it?” The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “Yes, whoever hears it should know it.” (Ahmad 3704)

Lastly, we need to understand is that happiness is the spiritual experience of living every minute doing good for the sake of Allah, it is in being grateful for whatever we have and in utilizing it all in being of service to the creation of Allah. May Allah grant us the happiness of this world and the next. Ameen.

Source: arabnews.com

Pilgrims start arriving from tomorrow

Pilgrims start arriving from tomorrow

JEDDAH — King Abdulaziz International Airport’s Haj terminal in Jeddah and Prince Muhammad International Airport in Madinah have completed all preparations for receiving pilgrims who will start arriving at these airports from Thursday (Dhul Qada 1), the first day of the Haj season of 2016.

For the coming period of two and a half months, the airports are expected to receive around 1.4 million pilgrims from all over the world.

More than 7,000 staff, representing 27 government and private agencies, will be involved in implementing the Haj plan.

According to the plan, all the lounges of the Haj terminal will be converted into arrival lounges from Dhul Qada 1 till Dhul Hijja 4 (Aug. 4 – Sept. 5) and departure lounges from Dhul Hijjah 16 to Muharram 15 (Sept. 17 to Oct. 16).

The first flight carrying pilgrims from New Delhi will land at 5.30 p.m.at Madinah airport. A total of 1,36,020 Indians will perform Haj this year.

The General Authority of Civil Aviation (GACA), in coordination with the Ministry of Haj and Umrah and other agencies, has prepared a plan in line with the directive of the Saudi leadership, to fast-track the arrival procedures by taking advantage of the e-track system.

Upon arrival at the terminal, officials from the Ministry of Health will receive pilgrims and give them necessary health guidelines and services, and then they will proceed to the Passport Control to complete immigration procedures.

The Haj terminal is spread over 90,000 square meters of roofed area and 160,000 sq. meters of open area. There are 142 counters for Passports (Jawazat) and 120 counters of the Ministry of Haj.

At Madinah airport, officials of the government and private departments serving pilgrims met to finalize the Haj operation plan. It is expected that the airport will receive a total of 2,678 Haj flights, a five percent increase over last year.

Meanwhile, Prince Khaled Al-Faisal, emir of Makkah and adviser to Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques and chairman of the Central Haj Committee, met Minister of Haj Muhammad Saleh Bantan at his office in Jeddah on Tuesday.

During the meeting, Prince Khaled was briefed on the second phase of the e-track and e-bracelet systems for pilgrims and GPS system for pilgrims’ buses.

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Source: saudigazette.com.sa

How to enhance faith after the performance of Hajj

How to enhance faith after the performance of Hajj

Those whom the Almighty has favored to perform Hajj and Umrah should be thankful to Him for he has chosen them among His servants to perform these acts of worship, and they should implore and make Dua'a (Supplications) so that their good deeds be accepted. Being able to perform Hajj and Umrah is a great favor that deserves gratitude.

Moreover, Pilgrims who accomplished Hajj and Umrah should keep their minds and souls attached to Allah, remembering Him constantly because He says : So when you have accomplished your Manasik , remember Allah as you remember your forefathers or with a far more remembrance. (Al-Baqarah 200)

The performance of Hajj and Umrah, as Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said in the hadeeth, purifies sins and makes a person like a newborn and thus closer to the Almighty. It is therefore important for pilgrims to do their best to preserve this state of purity as best they can. They should be consistent in remembering the Almighty and remain steadfast in performing the prayer and the other required religious duties.

Furthermore, they should keep reading the holy Quran on a daily basis  and occupy their time by doing good deeds and keep company with righteous Muslims. After accomplishing Islam's fifth pillar, pilgrims should pray to the Almighty to make their hearts steadfast in obeying Him and following His prescriptions and orders.

Those who were favored to perform Hajj and Umrah should equally stay away from Haraam (forbidden) and carry the noble message of Islam by inviting Muslims to do good deeds and increasing the number of their good deeds too.

Source: go-makkah.com

 

Universal Lessons of Hajj

Universal Lessons of Hajj

Millions of pilgrims from all over the world will be converging on Mecca in the coming days. They will retrace the footsteps of millions who have made the spiritual journey to the valley of Mecca since the time of Adam.

Hajj literally means, “to continuously strive to reach one’s goal.” It is the last of the five pillars of Islam (the others include a declaration of faith in one God, five daily prayers, offering regular charity, and fasting during the month of Ramadan). Pilgrimage is a once-in-a-lifetime obligation for those who have the physical and financial ability to undertake the journey.

The Hajj is essentially a re-enactment of the rituals of the great prophets and teachers of faith. Pilgrims symbolically relive the experience of exile and atonement undergone by Adam and Eve after they were expelled from Heaven, wandered the earth, met again and sought forgiveness in the valley of Mecca. They also retrace the frantic footsteps of the wife of Abraham, Hagar, as she ran between the hills of Safa and Marwa searching for water for her thirsty baby (which according to Muslim tradition, God answered with the well of Zam Zam). Lastly, the pilgrims also commemorate the willingness of Abraham to sacrifice his son for the sake of God. God later substituted a ram in place of his son.

Yet, the Hajj is more than these elaborate rituals. The faithful hope that it will bring about a deep spiritual transformation, one that will make him or her a better person. If such a change within does not occur, then the Hajj was merely a physical and material exercise devoid of any spiritual significance.

 As all great religions teach, we are more than mere physical creatures in that we possess an essence beyond the material world. Indeed, this is why all great religions have a tradition of pilgrimage. In the Islamic tradition, Hajj encapsulates this spiritual journey toward this essence. The current state of affairs — both within and outside the Muslim world — greatly increases the relevance of some of the spiritual and universal messages inherent in the Hajj.

As Islamic scholar Ebrahim Moosa asks rhetorically: “after paying homage to the two women Eve and Hagar in the rites of pilgrimage, how can some Muslims still violate the rights and dignity of women in the name of Islam? Is this not a contradiction?”

Indeed, the Qur’an teaches: “I shall not lose sight of the labor of any of you who labors in my way, be it man or woman; each of you is equal to the other.” (3:195)

Clearly, the white sea of men and women side by side performing tawaf (circling) around the Ka’aba (the stone building Muslims believe was originally built by Adam and rebuilt by Abraham and his son Ishmael) should lay to rest any claim that Islam — as opposed to some Muslims — degrades women. The fact that millions of Muslims transcending geographical, linguistic, level of practice, cultural, ethnic, color, economic and social barriers converge in unison on Mecca, attests to the universality of the Hajj. It plants the seed to celebrate the diversity of our common humanity. Pilgrims return home enriched by this more pluralistic and holistic outlook and with a new appreciation for their own origins. One of the most celebrated Western Hajjis (one who has completed the Hajj) is none other than African-Ameican civil rights leader El-Hajj Malik El-Shabbaz, more commonly known as Malcolm X. The man profoundly reassessed his previous views during the Hajj. This transformation, of course, sealed his break with the Black nationalist movement of the Nation of Islam.

Contrary to the teachings of the Nation, he concluded that Islam encompassed all of humanity and transcended race and culture. Malcolm X later said, “In my 39 years on this Earth, the holy city of Mecca had been the first time I had ever stood before the Creator of all and felt like a complete human.”

In Mecca, he discovered himself mixing with, “fellow Muslims, whose eyes were the bluest of blue, whose hair was the blondest of blond, and whose skin was whitest of white.” Malcolm X was so inspired by what he witnessed, that, in letters to friends and relatives, he wrote, “America needs to understand Islam, because this is the one religion that erases from its society the race problem.”

Upon returning to America, he embarked on a mission to enlighten both blacks and whites with his new views. Malcolm X understood that in order to truly learn from the Hajj, its inherent spiritual lessons must extend beyond the fraternal ties of Muslims to forging a common humanity with others.

In fact, as part of the spiritual experience, the pilgrimage links people across religions through a past shared by several Abrahamic traditions. This combined with the Islamic teaching of the common origin of humanity holds out much hope. Indeed, the Qur’an teaches: “We created you from a single pair of a male and female (Adam and Eve), and made you into nations and tribes that ye may know each other and not that you might despise each other. The most honored of you in the sight of God is the most righteous of you” (Al-Hujurat: 13). This is a great celebration of the differences and at the same time unity of all of humanity.

Another essential spiritual message of the Hajj is one of humility to God and His supremacy and control over all that we know. The multitude of people and their inner beliefs and practices are all to be judged by God and God alone in His infinite wisdom and full knowledge. Indeed, as the Qur’an insists, “Let there be no compulsion in matters of faith, truth stands out clear from error.” (2: 256) The result of a successful Hajj is a rich inner peace, which is manifested outwardly in the values of justice, honesty, respect, generosity, kindness, forgiveness, mercy and empathy. And it is these values – all attributes of God almighty — that are indispensable to us all if we are just to get along in this world.

Source: whyislam.org

A new life after Hajj

A new life after Hajj

Undoubtedly, Hajj is best opportunity to wash one’s sins away and refine the soul. He / She who performs Hajj is supposed to be a model for others to be followed.

In fact,  those whom the Almighty favored to perform Hajj should be thankful to Allah and incessantly keep imploring and beseeching Him to accept their good deeds. This is crucial, for it reflects their belief that being so favored by the Almighty to accomplish Islam's fifth pillar is a favor that deserves gratitude and thank to Allah.

After returning from the holt places, the pilgrims should keep their mind and souls attached to the Almighty, remembering Him constantly for He says: So when you have accomplished your Manasik , remember Allah as you remember your forefathers or with a far more remembrance. (Al-Baqarah , 200)
He/ She who performed Hajj should be very keen to avoid evil and shameful deeds especially after Allah has forgiven all his previous sins, as a reward of performing Hajj for  “The reward of Hajj Mabrur (the one accepted by Allah) is nothing but Paradise.” (Reported by Muslim).

Upon returning home, the pilgrims should be conscious of Allah when performing all what Allah has instructed them to do of the other worships such as Salah (Prayers), Zakah, Fasting Ramadan, dutifulness to his parents, visiting kith and kin, being charitable and benevolent to Allah’s creatures, and the like of what the Muslim should do.

Hajj is considered as a blessing, the more it entails responsibility on which man will be asked concerning on the Day of Judgment in case the pilgrim misbehaves after returning from Hajj. Almighty Allah says, : Verily, Allah enjoins Al-'Adl (i.e. justice and worshipping none but Allah Alone - Islamic Monotheism) and Al-Ihsan [i.e. to be patient in performing your duties to Allah, totally for Allah's sake and in accordance with the Sunnah (legal ways) of the Prophet in a perfect manner], and giving (help) to kith and kin (o.e. all that Allah has ordered you to give them e.g., wealth, visiting, looking after them, or any other kind of help), and forbids Al-Fahsha' (i.e all evil deeds, e.g. illegal sexual acts, disobedience of parents, polytheism, to tell lies, to give false witness, to kill a life without right), and Al-Munkar (i.e all that is prohibited by Islamic law: polytheism of every kind, disbelief and every kind of evil deeds), and Al-Baghy (i.e. all kinds of oppression). He admonishes you, that you may take heed. (An-Nahl: 90)

Hajj is an obligation once in lifetime. Therefore, the pilgrim should take that as a golden opportunity which he/she will make use of for the rest of his/her life. He/she should keep remembering the holy places and all the rituals of Hajj for it will strengthen his faith and devotion to the Almighty.

Source: go-makkah.com

Hajj and its role in strengthening our faith

Hajj and its role in strengthening our faith

Hajj is a once-in-a-life time obligation upon us whose health and means permit it. It is an essential part of our faith and practice as it is the fifth pillar of Islam. It symbolises central concepts of Islam and commemorates the trials of the Prophet Abraham.

Hajj provides us with the opportunity for a spiritual rebirth that gets us closer to the Almighty .We are united through submission to the will and communal worship of our beloved creator.

The role that Hajj plays in strengthening our faith springs from our determination, perseverance, patience and control of acts.

Diverse rites are performed during Hajj; all of them reinforce our attachment to Allah. By attending Hajj and communally performing its rites, we strengthen bonds with the Almighty.  During the Ihram for example, we wear unique white garments that symbolizes human equality and unity in front of Allah . It is of great importance for us as we feel that barriers of discrimination are completely and that there are no differences to separate us. Such feeling significantly deepens connection with Allah.

Thus, Hajj is important as a fulfillment of pillars that strengthens our faith. It affects us to affirm commitment to Allah where the strengthening of the global Islamic community would be possible.

Our most intensive experience as Muslims is to perform Hajj. Hajj allows us the recognition of the Oneness of the Almighty .It equally offers us the opportunity to awaken our consciousness of his centrality.

Moreover, the collective form of worship during Hajj offers us a sense of belonging. One feels that he/she is part of the Umma. Hajj is the pillar by which we increase our certainty of faith as we see more than two millions performing it. It forges our Muslim identity.

When supplicating during Hajj, we seek forgiveness of our previous sins. Hence, we develop a sense of spiritual rebirth and renewal to strengthen our faith and loyalty to the Almighty.

Essentially, Hajj plays a crucial role in strengthening our faith. All its rites reflect a unified strong faith in Allah.

Source: go-makkah.com

Tawaf: A Source of inspiration

source: saudigazette

Tawaf: A Source of inspiration 

JEDDAH – The works of a British artist specializing in Islamic art attracted a large audience at a recent Jeddah art exhibition. The works of art displayed depict the circular motion around the Kaaba showing the scene in different colors and using various points of view to show how people circumambulate the Kaaba.

Speaking to the Saudi Gazette, artist Siddiqa Juma said participating in the exhibition allowed her to present her works to a Saudi audience and also visit Makkah and see the Kaaba for the first time.

“I feel blessed and related,” she said while adding her first to Makkah inspired her to expand her works.

She explained that the concept of circumambulation around the Kaaba and the pilgrimage has been a source of artistic inspiration.

“It is a story of humanity, it tells more about how we can walk in the same space, irrespective of being rich or poor, white or not, Arab or not, young or old, able and disabled or whatever it is. All of that does not seem important there, we leave there and we start to assume our positions,” she said.

“The holy place makes us all equal under the same sky,” Juma added.

She noted that people nowadays talk about multiculturalism and the idea of unity, ideas that can be found in Makkah. “The whole concept of what the Kaaba stands for is a perfect example of what unity and what multiculturalism are.”

Speaking about her participation in a Saudi exhibition she said the engagement and interest have been “phenomenal.” She added “I got many reactions, many young people wanted to call their parents and friends to come see the art prices, others wants to take pictures and post them on social media.”

Juma describes herself as a graphic designer. Though she has presented various works, the Kaaba project still stands unique. “The Kaaba project is a big part of what I do. It is not only the circumambulation abound the Kaaba that amazes me but even the architecture of the Kaaba and the fact that it is a cube, nothing elaborate,” she said.

One of the most time-consuming art pieces in the Kaaba project is titled “la ilaha illa allah” where the phrase is written in a circular motion around the Kaaba. “It took a lot of time, because of its complexity, as it has to be written thousands of times.”

Juma is now considering expanding her projects to include other holy sites.

Source: saudigazette.com.sa

How to enhance faith after the performance of Hajj

How to enhance faith after the performance of Hajj

Those whom the Almighty has favored to perform Hajj and Umrah should be thankful to Him for he has chosen them among His servants to perform these acts of worship, and they should implore and make Dua'a (Supplications) so that their good deeds be accepted. Being able to perform Hajj and Umrah is a great favor that deserves gratitude.   

Moreover, Pilgrims who accomplished Hajj and Umrah should keep their minds and souls attached to Allah, remembering Him constantly because He says : So when you have accomplished your Manasik , remember Allah as you remember your forefathers or with a far more remembrance. (Al-Baqarah 200)

The performance of Hajj and Umrah, as Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said in the hadeeth, purifies sins and makes a person like a newborn and thus closer to the Almighty. It is therefore important for pilgrims to do their best to preserve this state of purity as best they can. They should be consistent in remembering the Almighty and remain steadfast in performing the prayer and the other required religious duties.

Furthermore, they should keep reading the holy Quran on a daily basis  and occupy their time by doing good deeds and keep company with righteous Muslims. After accomplishing Islam's fifth pillar, pilgrims should pray to the Almighty to make their hearts steadfast in obeying Him and following His prescriptions and orders.

Those who were favored to perform Hajj and Umrah should equally stay away from Haraam (forbidden) and carry the noble message of Islam by inviting Muslims to do good deeds and increasing the number of their good deeds too.

Article by: go-makkah.com

Fasting in summer a quality of faith

Fasting in summer a quality of faith

THE blessings related to fasting are truly astounding. Those who fast are able to scale the ranks; expiate their sins; tame their desire; give much in charity; engage in a variety of acts of worship; give thanks to their Creator; avoid being swayed by impulses of disobedience and violations; distance themselves from the blazing Fire; and tap on the doors of Paradise. Fasting possesses so many virtues; some of these are presented below.

1. Sa’ihun: Allah describes the righteous believers in the Qur’an with many names. One such description is sa’ihun. Allah says, “(The believers whose lives Allah has purchased are) those who repent to Allah, who worship Him, who praise Him, who are the sa’ihun, those who bow down (in prayer), who prostrate themselves (in prayer), who enjoin virtue and forbid vice, and who observe the limits set by Allah. And give glad tidings to the believers.” (Qur’an, 9:112)

Sa’ihun literally means travelers and many scholars mention that this refers to those who fast. Some scholars of the Arabic language state that the fasting person was named a traveler (sa’ih) because a traveler has no provision with him but eats wherever and whenever he finds food.

2. Fasting has no equivalent: Abu Umamah relates: “I approached the Messenger of Allah and asked, “O Allah’s Messenger, command me with a matter by which Allah will benefit me” (in another narration, ‘Command me with an action by which I will enter Paradise’) He replied, “Take to fasting for it has no equivalent”.’ (Al-Nasa’i) It was said that smoke (from cooking) was never again noticed during the day in Abu Umamah’s house and if it was, then people knew for sure he had guests.

3. Allah claims the action for Himself: This reveals its sublime and dignified status. The Prophet said: “Allah Almighty said, ‘Every deed a person does is for his own self except fasting; it is for Me and I compensate for it’.” (Bukhari/Muslim)

One reasoning given is that fasting is free of riya’, which means to perform an action not solely for Allah but to be noticed by others in order to seek their awe, praise or worldly gain. Ibn Al-Jawzi said, “All acts of worship are noticeable (by others) when performed and it is rare for it to be free of some tarnishing, except fasting.” (Al-Fath, vol. 4)

4. Superiority of reward: Al-Qurtubi discusses the meaning of the aforementioned hadith “and I compensate for it.” He says, ‘This means that the measure of rewards for actions (in general) are known to people and that they are multiplied anywhere from 10 to 700 fold to whatever Allah wills, to the exception of fasting as Allah rewards one for it without any pre-determined measure.” (Al-Fath, vol. 4) Al-Manawi states, ‘This is a sign of the immense compensation and rich rewards for it because if Al-Karim (The Most Generous) informs that he will grant an offering without any intermediary, this necessitates its swiftness and merit’. (Fayd Al-Qadir)

5. Suitability of fasting: Allah is Al-Ghani (The Rich), Al-Qayyum (The Self-Sustainer and Supporter of all) and Al-Samad (The Self-Sufficient Master), Who has no need for food or drink and Whom all creatures need). Al-Hafidh said, ‘The lack of need for food and other desires is a characteristic of the Lord Almighty; because a fasting person draws near to Him in a manner appropriate to His own attributes, He ascribed it to Himself.’ Al-Qurtubi said, ‘The actions of slaves are all in agreement to their own dispositions except for fasting.

This is appropriate to one of the characteristics of Al-Haqq (The One True Deity); it is as if He is saying, “My servant draws near to Me with a matter that is connected to one of My attributes”.’ (Al-Fath, vol. 4)

6. Fasting expiates sins: The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “The trials (fitnah) a person experiences through his family, wealth, self, children and neighbor are expiated by fasting, prayer, charity, commanding virtue and forbidding vice.” (Al-Buhkari/Muslim)

7. Praise from Allah and supplication from the Angels! The Prophet said, “Indeed Allah sends His salah (praise, grace, honor, blessings, mercy) and His angels send salah (ask Allah for them to be praised, graced etc.) upon those who take the pre-dawn meal.” (Ibn Hibban in his Al-Sahih and others)

If Allah and His angels send salah for those who take the pre-dawn meal, which is an aid to fasting, what do you think about fasting itself?

8. A formidable shield: The Messenger said, “Fasting is a shield from the punishment of Allah.” (Al-Bayhaqi in Shu’ab Al-Iman, Ahmad, Al-Nasa’i) He also said, “Fasting is a shield with which a servant protects himself from the Fire.” (Al-Tabarani in Al-Kabir, Ahmad, Al-Nasa’i) He also said, “Fasting is a shield from the Fire just like one of your shields in battle.”(Ahmad, Al-Nasa’i, Ibn Majah) Al-Manawi says, “A protection in this world from disobedience by curtailing desire and preserving the limbs and in the Hereafter from the Fire.” (Fayd Al-Qadir, vol.4) Ibn Abd Al-Barr stated, “As a virtue of fasting, this is surely sufficient for you!”

9. The summer fast: Abu Musa relates, ‘Allah decreed upon Himself that whoever goes thirsty for Him on a hot day, that He would grant him water on the Day of Judgment.’ (Related by Al-Bazzar) Fasting in summer is a quality of faith because of the length of a summer day and the severity of its heat.

10. The winter fast: The Prophet said, ‘Fasting in winter is easy prey.’ (Ahmad/others) Omar Ibn Al-Khattab said, ‘Winter is prey (for the taking) for worshippers.’ (Ahmad in Al-Zuhd)

11. Al-Rayyan: “In Paradise, there are eight doors. One of these doors is called Al-Rayyan and only those who fast will enter through it.” (Al-Bukhari) “Indeed there is a door in Paradise called Al-Rayyan. Those who fast will enter through it on the Day of Judgment. It is only they who will enter it and when they have entered, it will be closed so that no one else can enter.” (Al-Bukhari/Muslim)

— Sheikh Farid Haibata studied Arabic Language and other religious sciences at the Islamic University in Madinah and is a prominent Islamic scholar in the West.

Al-Zarkashi said, “Rayyan means to be well-sated with drink, the opposite to thirst; it was named this in compensation for the thirst and hunger endured by those who fasted.’ (Mirqah Al-Mafatih Sharh Mishkah Al-Masabih)

Izz Al-Din Ibn Abd Al-Salam said, “As for the restriction of those entering Paradise through the door of Al-Rayyan to only those who fasted, they were set apart because of the distinction and nobility of their worship.” (Fawa’id Al-Sawm)

12. A fine finale: The Prophet said, ‘Whoever passes away on a day he fasts will enter Paradise.’ (Al-Bazzar/Ahmad)

Al-Manawi said, ‘i.e., whoever completes his lifetime with a day of fasting either dying while fasting or after having broken the fast for that day, will enter Paradise along with the forerunners and foremost generations or without any previous punishment.’ (Fayd Al-Qadir)

13. An intercessor: The Prophet said, ‘Fasting and the Qur’an will intercede for the servant on the Day of Resurrection. Fasting will say, “My Lord, I forbade him food and desire so accept my intercession for him”. The Qur’an will say, “My Lord, I prevented him from sleep at night, so accept my intercession for him”. So their intercession will be accepted.’ (Ahmad/Al-Tabarani on Al-Kabir)

14. Accepted supplication: The Prophet said, “Three supplications are responded to: the supplication of the one fasting; the one oppressed and the traveler.” (Al-Bayhaqi)

He also said, “There are three whose supplication will not be rejected: the fasting person at the time of breaking his fast; the just ruler and the supplication of an oppressed person.” (Ibn Hibban, Ahmad)

15. Two occasions for joy: The Prophet said, “The fasting person has two occasions for joy, one when he breaks his fast and the other when he meets his Lord.” (Al-Tirmidhi/Ahmad)

16. A smell more pleasant than musk: “Every deed a person does is for his own self except fasting; it is for Me and I compensate for it. Indeed, the smell of the fasting person’s mouth is more pleasant to Allah than that of musk.” (Muslim and Ibn Hibban)

17. Fasting prevents distraction: Al-Manawi states, “Fasting was legislated to tame the desires of the soul and to put a stop to what causes one to be in servitude and enslaved by things; if people continue to satisfy their desires they will be enslaved by things and will be disconnected from Allah. Fasting severs any connection to devoting servitude to other than Him and delivers freedom from being bound to what one covets; the meaning of freedom is to own things and not for things to own a person. If they do own and control him, wisdom is upturned and what is to be preferred becomes the opposite and what is most lofty becomes the most low...’ (Fayd Al-Qadir)

18. Realizing the need for gratitude: Al-Qastalani says concerning the aims and virtues of fasting, ‘It causes one to offer much gratitude for one’s blessings and bounties and to acknowledge the previous blessings of satisfying one’s need because of hunger and thirst; this causes one to strive to be grateful since something is truly known by its opposite.’ (Madarik Al-Maram fi Masalik Al-Siyam)

19. Opportunity and incentive to more acts of worship: Izz Al-Din Ibn Abd Al-Salam, “As for the opportunity to engage in more acts of worship, this is because it reminds one of the hunger and thirst of the dwellers of the Fire so it urges one to perform more acts of worship in order to attain salvation from the Fire. As for restraining impulses of disobedience and violations, this is because a soul that has had its fill desires and yearns for disobedience whereas if it is hungry and thirsty it desires food and drink. The desire of the soul for deliverance (from hunger and thirst) and being preoccupied with this is better than its yearning for disobedience and sin. This is why some of the early generations (salaf) preferred fasting to all other acts of worship; when questioned why, they replied, ‘For Allah to look upon me whilst my soul is challenging me concerning food and drink is more beloved to me than for Him to look upon me whilst it is challenging me concerning disobedience....” (Fawai’d Al-Sawm)

20. Opportunity for being charitable and benevolent

Al-Qastalani said, ‘...the fasting person experiences hunger so he comprehends the severity of the pain of hunger; this urges him to be benevolent to those who are without food. It also causes him to reflect on the harms of being powerless and isolated; as only one who is afflicted with a difficulty can really be aware of it...’ (Madarik Al-Maram)

21. A gentle heart and safeguarded limbs

The Prophet said, “There will enter Paradise a people whose hearts are like the hearts of birds.” (Muslim)

Al-Qastalani lists as one of the benefits of fasting, ‘The gentleness of the heart and much weeping; and this is one of the causes of happiness. Eating one’s fill does away with the light of real knowledge and imposes harshness and disentitlement.’

He also lists, ‘Safeguarding the limbs from persisting in wrongdoings; this is one of the greatest benefits to fasting. In fact it lies at the foundation of fulfilling the purpose. If one’s soul is touched with the pain of hunger it becomes submissive and obedient and distracted with this circumstance from extending its aspirations toward vile thoughts and thus its limbs will cease from committing improper movements and will stop short of violating what is sacred. The limbs are seven: the eye, ear, tongue, stomach, private parts, hand and foot. The soul supports these limbs and is the considered root. If the root weakens the branches weaken likewise and this is the secret to fasting...’ (Madarik Al-Maram)

— Sheikh Farid Haibata studied Arabic Language and other religious sciences at the Islamic University in Madinah and is a prominent Islamic scholar in the West.

Source: arabnews.com

Qur’an and Hadith on fasting

Qur’an and Hadith on fasting

O you, who believe. Fasting is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqun (the pious). (Fasting) for a fixed number of days, but if any of you is ill or on a journey, the same number (should be made up) from other days. And as for those who can fast with difficulty, (i.e. an old man, etc.), they have (a choice either to fast or) to feed a poor person (for every day). But whoever does good of his own accord, it is better for him. And that you fast, it is better for you if only you know.” (Qur’an, 2:183-84)

“The month of Ramadan in which was revealed the Qur’an, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong). So whoever of you sights (the crescent on the first night of) the month (of Ramadan), he must fast that month, and whoever is ill or on a journey, the same number (of days which one did not fast must be made up) from other days.

Allah intends for you ease, and He does not want to make things difficult for you. (He wants that you) must complete the same number (of days), and that you must magnify Allah for having guided you so that you may be grateful to Him” (Qur’an, 2:185).

“It is made lawful for you to have sexual relations with your wives on the night of the fasts. They are garments for you and you are the same for them. Allah knows that you used to deceive yourselves, so He turned to you and forgave you. So now have sexual relations with them and seek that which Allah has ordained for you, and eat and drink until the white thread (light) of dawn appears to you distinct from the black thread (darkness of night), then complete your fast till the nightfall. And do not have sexual relations with them (your wives) while you are in Itikaf in the mosques. These are the limits (set) by Allah, so approach them not. Thus does Allah make clear His signs to mankind that they may become Al Muttaqun (the pious).” (Qur’an, 2:187)

“Verily! We have sent it (this Qur’an) down in the night of Al-Qadr. And what will make you know what the night of Al-Qadr is? The night of Al-Qadr is better than a thousand months. Therein descend the angels and the Ruh (Gabriel) by Allah’s Permission with all Decrees, Peace! Until the appearance of dawn.” (Qur’an, 97:1-5)

Hadiths on fasting

Abu Huraira related that the Prophet (peace and blessings be upon him) said: “Whoever fasts during Ramadan with faith and seeking his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven. Whoever prays during the nights in Ramadan with faith and seeking his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven. And he who passes Lailat Al-Qadr in prayer with faith and seeking his reward from Allah will have his past sins forgiven.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

Abu Huraira related that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “If anyone omits his fast even for one day in Ramadan without a concession or without being ill, then if he were to fast for the rest of his life he could not make up for it.” (Bukhari)

Abu Huraira related that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: Allah the Majestic and Exalted said: “Every deed of man will receive ten to 700 times reward, except Siyam (fasting), for it is for Me and I shall reward it (as I like). There are two occasions of joy for one who fasts: one when he breaks the fast and the other when he will meet his Lord” (Muslim).

Abu Huraira related that the Prophet (peace be upom him) said: Many people who fast get nothing from their fast except hunger and thirst, and many people who pray at night get nothing from it except wakefulness (Darimi).

When to start fasting

Ibn Umar related that the Prophet said: “Do not start fasting unless you see the new moon, and do not end fasting until you see it. If the weather is cloudy then calculate when it should appear.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

Suhoor (pre-dawn meal)

Anas related that the Prophet said: “Take the suhoor meal, for there is blessing in it.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

Breaking your fast

Salman ibn Amir Dhabi related that the Prophet said: “Break your fast with dates, or else with water, for it is pure.” (Abu Dawud, Tirmidhi)

During journey

Aisha related that the Prophet (peace be upon him) was asked whether one should fast when on a journey, and he replied: “Fast if you like, or postpone it if you like.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

Behavior while fasting

Abu Huraira related that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “If a person does not avoid false talk and false conduct during Siyam, then Allah does not care if he abstains from food and drink.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

Forgetfully eating or drinking while fasting

Abu Huraira related that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “If anyone forgets that he is fasting and eats or drinks he should complete his Siyam, for it is Allah who has fed him and given him drink.” (Bukhari, Muslim)

Providing for those who are breaking the fast

Zaid ibn Khalid Johni related that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “He who provides for the breaking of the Siyam of another person earns the same merit as the one who was observing Siyam without diminishing in any way the reward of the latter.” (Tirmidhi)

Lailat Al-Qadr

Aisha related that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “Look for Lailat Al-Qadr on an odd-numbered night during the last 10 nights of Ramadan.” (Bukhari).
Anas ibn Malik related that the Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “When Lailat Al-Qadr comes, Gabriel descends with a company of angels (may Allah bless them all) who ask for blessings on everyone who is remembering Allah, whether they are sitting or standing.” (Baihaqi)

Source: arabnews.com

Allah enjoins us to be kind on earth

Allah enjoins us to be kind on earth

ALLAH, the Almighty, says: “Allah commands justice, the doing of good, and liberality to kith and kin, and He forbids all shameful deeds, and injustice and rebellion: He instructs you that ye may receive admonition.” (Qur’an, 16:90)

Justice and fairness are commanded and required in all situations, when one is happy and satisfied, and when one is upset and unsatisfied, with Muslims and with non-Muslims alike. Allah, the Almighty, says: “O ye who believe! Stand out firmly for Allah, as witnesses to fair dealing, and let not the hatred of others to you make you swerve to wrong and depart from justice. Be just, that is, next to Piety; and fear Allah. For Allah is well-acquainted with all that ye do.” (Qur’an, 5:8)

Islam enjoins altruism and urges Muslims to practice it. Philanthropy and benevolence are some of the results of altruism, if practiced by the members of the society. Allah, the Almighty says: “But those who, before them, had homes (in Madinah) and had adopted the faith, show their affection to such as came to them for refuge, and entertain no desire in their hearts for things given to the (latter); but give them preference over themselves, even though poverty was their (own lot). And those saved from the covetousness of their own souls; they are the ones that achieve prosperity.” (Qur’an, 59:9)

Islam urges to maintain righteous company. Muslims are advised to stay aloof from bad company. Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) is reported to have said, The example of good and evil companions is like that of a person who is carrying musk and the blacksmith who is blowing his blower over the fire to get it going. A musk carrier would either give you a bit of it, or you may buy a little from him or at the least, you would smell good perfume from him. As for the blacksmith who is blowing his blower over the fire you may either burn your clothes (if you sit by him), or else you would be disturbed with the sparkles of his fire, or the least (harm you may get) is to get disturbed with the bad odor coming from him (and his place). (Bukhari and Muslim)

Islam enjoins to assist people in making up better relationships. This is especially so when there is a rift in the relationship between people. Allah, the Almighty says: “In most of their secret talks there is no good; but if one exhorts to a deed of charity or justice or conciliation between men, (secrecy is permissible): To him who does this, seeking the good pleasure of Allah, We shall soon give a reward of the highest (value).” (Qur’an, 4:114)

Islam suggests maintaining a good character and morals. Good morals and virtues are essential for a better society. Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) is reported to have said, Among the best believers are the persons with the best of morals and characteristics and those who are most kind to their family members. (Tirmidhi)

Islam enjoins on Muslims to offer their help and assistance to others free of charge and for the pleasure of Allah Almighty. Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) is reported to have said, Do favors for those who deserve to be done for them, and also for those who do not deserve to be done for them. If the doer did the favor for those who deserve it (and they are worthy of it) it is fine and good, and if not, the doer (of the favor) himself is one of those who are worthy for favors. (Tirmidhi)

Islam enjoins on Muslims to be generous. Generosity brings people closer to each other and enables the generous to gain the love and affection of others. Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) is reported to have said, “Allah, the Almighty, loves two traits: To be good to others and to be generous to them.” Similarly, Allah, the Almighty, hates two traits: To be mean to others and to be miser to people. On the other hand, If Allah, the Almighty, favors a person, He would employ him to assist others achieve their goals and fulfill their needs.

There is criterion, however, for generosity in Islam. Allah says: “Make not thy hand tied (like a niggard’s) to thy neck, nor stretch it forth to its utmost reach, so that thou become blameworthy and destitute.” (Qur’an, 17:29)

On being generous toward others, Allah, the Almighty, says: “And render to the kindred their due rights, as (also) to those in want, and to the wayfarer; but squander not (your wealth) in the manner of a spendthrift. Verily spendthrifts are brothers of the evil ones; and the evil one is to his Lord (Himself) ungrateful.” (Qur’an, 17:26-27)

Muslims to be kind and benevolent to others. The Prophet (peace be upon him) is reported to have said, “Allah, the Almighty, would be (extremely) kind and merciful to those who are kind and merciful to others. Be kind to those on earth, the One in Heaven would be kind and merciful to you.” (Tirmidhi and Abu Dawood)

Islam commands Muslims to be kind and accommodating to others and encourages people to do so. Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) is reported to have said, Being kind to others is good in every matter and if kindness is removed (from the hearts of people), the situation becomes worst. (Muslim)

Islam enjoins on Muslims to hide omissions of others, and help each other to achieve their decent and honest goals.

Allah’s Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) is reported to have said, “Whosoever alleviates a believer’s hardship of this world, Allah, the Almighty, would alleviate his hardship and difficulty of the Day of Judgment. Whosoever eases the terms on (a financially) stranded person, Allah, the Almighty, would ease his difficulties in both this world and the Hereafter. Whosoever hides the defects of a Muslim in this world, Allah, the Almighty, would hide the defects of that person both in this world and in the Hereafter. Allah, the Almighty, would continue to assist a slave-servant so long as such person is extending his help and assistance to his Muslim brethren. (Muslim)

Islam enjoins upon patience. People are encouraged to be patient in order to perform their religious duties. People are equally urged and encouraged to practice patience in order to avoid all evils. Allah, the Almighty, says: “Now await in patience the command of thy Lord; for verily thou art in Our eyes; and celebrate the praises of thy Lord the while thou standest forth.” (Qur’an, 52:48)

Islam also urges and encourages Muslims to be patient on what they have been predestined for such as poverty, hunger, lack of resources, terminal illness or else, and fear.

In fact, Allah, the Almighty, illustrates the reward of the patient people as follows: “Say: O ye My servants who believe! Fear your Lord. Good is (the reward) for those who do good in this world. Spacious is Allah’s earth! Those who patiently persevere will truly receive a reward without measure!” (Qur’an, 39:10)

Islam enjoins Muslims to control their temper and forgive others, though one is capable to take revenge. Such attitudes, of course, strengthen the relationships and ties among people and create a better atmosphere within the society. Islam promised a great reward for controlling one’s temper. Allah Almighty says: “Be quick in the race for forgiveness from your Lord, and for a garden whose width is that (of the whole) of the heavens and of the earth, prepared for the righteous. Those who spend (freely), whether in prosperity, or in adversity; who restrain anger, and pardon (all) men; for Allah loves those who do good.” (Qur’an, 3:133-134)

Also, Allah Almighty commands to do well, even though they have done unwell and were mistreated with evil acts. All this is done with the hope that people would get closer to each other and mane forge affection toward to each other. Allah, the Almighty, says: “Nor can goodness and evil be equal. Repel (evil) with what is better: Then will he, between whom and thee was hatred, become as it were thy friend and intimate!” (Qur’an, 41:34)

Article by: arabnews.com

Preparing for the holy month

Preparing for the holy month

The month of Ramadan is a time for spiritual reflection, prayer, recitation of the Qur’an, doing Zikr, remembrance of Allah, endurance and self-discipline. It is a month of training the soul and body- to be able to exercise self-restraint.

In order to gain the benefit of Ramadan, a Muslim must be fully prepared to embrace the blessed month. Here are some tips to make your Ramadan best ever!

Remaining in
‘Ramadan mode’

By planning for Ramadan before it arrives, you put your mind in “Ramadan mode.” Counting down for Ramadan (whether it is done mentally or by keeping physical signs around the home or office) will help create a buzz in your mind and among the people around you. In the month proceeding Ramadan, the Prophet (peace be upon him) used to pray (dua) with his companions that they may live long enough to see the blessed month of Ramadan. In other words, they would countdown the days and look forward to Ramadan. When you and others are counting down, you will emotionally connect with Ramadan, and it will help you to see it as the special month outside your regular routine the rest of the year.






Refresh your memory
about Ramadan

We tend to be aware that Ramadan is about abstaining from food, drink and sexual relations during fasting. To plan for Ramadan, we need to be aware about the higher purpose of Ramadan. Learning about the objectives behind Ramadan will help you do things correctly and perfectly for Ramadan to benefit from it. Knowledge about the reward and blessings for actions in Ramadan will incentivize and motivate you to do more and more during Ramadan.

The more you know about Ramadan the more you can apply, hence multiplying your rewards and fully benefitting from the mercy of Allah Almighty.

Prepare yourself
and start early

Before the arrival of Ramadan, prepare yourself spiritually physically and mentally to fully benefit from Ramadan. Do not expect to just click into fasting, praying, reciting the Glorious Qur’an and giving in charity from the first day of Ramadan. Many of us have this ‘light-switch’ approach, where we turn on the switch on day one of Ramadan and go into ‘Ramadan mode.’ This is similar to sprinting during the first legs of a marathon. You will have a lot of energy and motivation at the very beginning, but after a few days you will realize that this pace is not sustainable.

Although, you may be able to carry on, with or without much enthusiasm, during Ramadan as a matter of routine but will not be able to fully reap the benefit and absorb the blessings that descend in this blessed month. Before the month of Ramadan, start the acts of worship early to prepare your body and soul:

Start to pray regularly, if you do not already do so;

Start doing additional prayers well before Ramadan;

Start reciting the glorious Qur’an regularly and reflecting on its meanings;

Start healthy and notorious diet well before Ramadan so that the body gets used to it;

Start to be extra vigilant with your conversation so that there is no gossiping, backbiting, slandering;

Start to control your emotions and actions, such as anger, cheating and being abusive
Start fasting during Sha’ban in accordance with the of the Prophet (peace be upon him).

Make a Ramadan plan

In order to maximize the benefits of anything, it is very important to plan, as failing to plan is planning to fail. Planning is a Sunnah of the Messenger of Allah . He meticulously planned everything and relied on Allah for guidance and accomplishment of his goals. For example, he planned his Hijra to Madinah from asking Sayyiduna Imam Ali to sleep in his place to choosing Sayyidna Abu Bakr Siddique (may Allah bless him) as his companion for the trip to packing supplies and finding the right guide.

Make a list of things you would like to achieve in Ramadan and then think about how you plan on achieving these goals. It is important that goals are realistic and practical.

Do not be over-ambitious and think that somehow everything will change in a week, rather take gradual steps to change your direction and turn to Allah Almighty so that you may continue to do these deeds after Ramadan. For instance, having a goal to read the translation and commentary of one page of the Noble Qur’an; spending 30-60 minutes with your family every day and doing a family activity together, picking up a new ‘good’ habit and giving up an old ‘bad’ habit every week, learning something about Islam, whether be a major or minor, on a daily basis

Giving some charity on
a daily/weekly basis

The list can be as long or as short as you want but the point is that you are consistent with it. Assess yourself at the end of every day so see how well you have done in achieving some of those goals.

Ensure that your ‘Ramadan Plan’ does not start and end with Ramadan rather it should be at least 40-60 day plan as the real ‘test’ starts after Ramadan to see whether or not the life-style changes that you made in your life during Ramadan are still with you after Ramadan when the devil has been released back into the world!

Resetting in Ramadan

In order to achieve the goals that you may have set yourself during Ramadan, changes in life-style will have to be made; such changes in daily routines will most certainly have to come with sacrifices and trade-offs.

Distractions consume our time and take us away from living a more productive and fulfilling life. During the month of Ramadan our time is at a premium. Our eating and sleeping patterns are altered with early morning suhoor, the occasional nap during the day and late night prayers. If we allow our everyday distractions to continue throughout Ramadan, we risk depriving ourselves from the immense blessings that are available.

This includes minimizing and managing our social media (WhatsApp, Facebook, Twitter, Instagram) presence, usage and consumption; minimizing our viewing of the television or playing of video games.

We will only be able to stay away from such distraction if we have built-in ‘alternatives’ in our lives. For instance, replace an ‘entertaining’ App on your smart-phone with a more beneficial App.

The time that you used to go a cafe-bar to see your friends, spend that time in a mosque with your friends exploring some aspect of the Qur’an and sunnah of the Prophet (peace be upon him). Initially, these small changes may be difficult to make but gradually you will start seeing the positive impact of such changes on your life.

Allah Almighty wants us to take the initial steps toward Him and once we persevere amid adversity and challenges, “He guides us to His path makes it easier for us.” (Qur’an, 29:69)

Article by: arabnews.com

Holy Mosques ready for Ramadan rush

Holy Mosques ready for Ramadan rush

JEDDAH: Approximately 7 million Umrah pilgrims are expected in Makkah and Madinah before and during Ramadan. They will be served by thousands of employees who want to guarantee the pilgrims’ safety and comfort.

Umrah pilgrims come through various ports, the most important ones being King Abdul Aziz International Airport in Jeddah and Prince Mohammed bin Abdul Aziz airport in Madinah. The kingdom uses all its powers to receive the pilgrims and facilitate all procedures until they reach Makkah and Madinah.

Mohammad Bejawi of the Ministry of Haj and Umrah in Madinah said this year Egypt ranked first in terms of the grant of Umrah visas with 1,275,785 visas; Pakistan came second with 918,063 visas; Indonesia third with 655,163 visas, followed by India with 436,000 visas; Turkey with 439,000, Jordan with 343,000, Algeria with 313,000, Malaysia with 211,000, Iraq with 183,000, Britain with 77,000 and the rest of the world 695,000.

Abdul Wahid Al-Hattab of the Presidency of the Two Holy Mosques reviewed the operational plan for Umrah season which is the responsibility of 5,000 employees in cooperation with all service directorates.

He said the presidency offers cool Zamzam water inside the Prophet’s Mosque and Grand Mosque. He confirmed that prayer areas have been laid with good quality carpets inside and on the roof of the two mosques and that the areas are kept clean around the clock.

He said the Prophet’s Mosque’s yards have been provided with 436 fans to offer cool surroundings and 250 shades to protect pilgrims from the heat of the sun. He said 100 gates and six pedestrian paths have been allocated to worshippers in addition to 20 carts for the elderly and the disabled.

Umrah pilgrims said they were happy to reach the Prophet’s Mosque and pray in it. They commended the facilities and services provided by the Kingdom to ensure their comfort while performing their prayers.

Abdul Noor from Algeria said they were happy to be in Madinah especially since this is the first time he is performing Umrah.

Bin Shanqi, also Algerian, said they had been received with a kind smile from airport officials and offered instant help by the guards at the mosque. He said the mosque and its supporting facilities are kept clean around the clock and cool water is available inside and outside the mosque.

Mohammed Salah, an Egyptian pilgrim, said services were very good with fans spraying water on worshippers to cool the atmosphere in the heat.

Aisha Ahmad, a Jordanian pilgrim, was happy to be in Madinah with her son and his wife. She said this was her second Umrah, her first having been 15 years ago. She said the difference was quite clear, especially in view of the expansion and the cleanliness of the mosque and its yards.

Pilgrims Faisal, Abdul Rahman, Hassan and Ashraf said there was quite a difference between their Umrah two decades ago and this one. They said Madinah had undergone many changes with many services added to the Prophet’s Mosque, which receives many visitors now in addition to services offered to the elderly and the disabled.

Saleh and Thamer from Iraq commended the services offered to visitors to the Prophet’s Mosque, saying they have witnessed many developments in all fields.

Article by: arabnews.com

Shaban opens the door to Ramadan

Shaban opens the door to Ramadan

Although it pales in comparison to the month that follows it, Shaban is an important month in the Islamic calendar.

Shaban should be viewed as the month of preparation for Ramadan.
Do not wait until one day before Ramadan to boost your level of worship, or you will lack the energy to keep you going. Switch your routine in Shaban, so that you can truly taste and appreciate the sweetness of worship in Ramadan. The soul needs training and discipline and now is a good time to start.

Numerous narrations show that it was the practice of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) to fast during Shaban.

Aisha, the wife of Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “I did not see the Messenger of Allah fast any month it its entirety except Ramadan, and I did not see him fast as frequently in any other month as he did during Shaban.” (Sahih Bukhari and Muslim)

The majority of people dismiss Shaban as just another regular month with no special spiritual significance. However, it is indeed a unique and special month because it is during Shaban that all the deeds that have been recorded for mankind throughout the year are raised to our Lord.

The Prophet’s companion, Usama bin Zayd, wanted to know why the Prophet (peace be upon him) was so keen on fasting during Shaban.

Usama bin Zayd said to the Prophet (peace be upon him), “I do not see you fasting in any month like you fast during Shaban.” The Prophet (peace be upon him) said, “That is a month occurring between Rajab and Ramadan that many people neglect. It is a month in which the deeds ascend to the Lord of the Worlds, and I love my deeds to ascend while I am fasting.” (Ahmad and Al-Nasa’i)

This is a good motivator for us to fast a few days in Shaban, as it is the month in which our deeds ascend to Allah. What better state to be in than fasting for the sake of Allah?

The righteous believers that lived before us used to seize Shaban as an opportunity to devote their time to reading and reciting the Holy Qur’an.

In fact, Shaban was called the month of the scholars of the Holy Qur’an.

In addition, Shaban is the perfect time to pay zakat and give charity. By giving today, we can help those families in need joyously celebrate the advent of Ramadan.

Shaban is the month to train and discipline the soul, so that we can greet Ramadan in a spiritually elevated state. One of the best ways to discipline the soul, to boost faith, to practice patience, and to worship Allah is voluntary fasting. And voluntary fasting will be highly rewarded by Allah.

To understand the merits behind voluntary fasting, look at the following Hadeeth.

Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said, “Whoever fasts a day for the sake of Allah, Allah will make a trench between him and the hellfire like the distance between the heavens and the earth.” (At-Tirmidhi)

To be distanced from the hellfire is the ultimate reward for our voluntary fast.

Fasting in Shaban is voluntary; it is recommended but it is not obligatory. Summer is back in full force with soaring temperatures.

Fasting on a long, hot summer day for no other reason than to draw nearer to Allah is the trademark of a pious believer. 

The companions of the Prophet (peace be upon him) heard him say that Allah, Glorified is He, said about the fasting person, “He has left his food, drink, and desires for My sake. The fast is for Me. So I will reward (the fasting person) for it and the reward of good deeds is multiplied ten times.” (Saheeh Bukhari)

After hearing that, the companions were motivated to fast consistently and frequently. For them, fasting was not limited only to Ramadan. It became a regular habit for them to fast often throughout the year, and especially during Shaban.

Article by: saudigazette.com.sa