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

What is Ramadan and why is it important in the Muslim faith ?

What is Ramadan and why is it important in the Muslim faith ?

Ramadan   is the name of the ninth month in the Islamic lunar calendar. It is an   important month in the Islamic calendar and culture. Each day during the month   of Ramadan, Muslims around the world observe the sacred month by fasting   during day light hours (from dawn to sunset), performing nightly prayers in   addition to the daily obligatory prayers, and concluding each day’s fast over   food with family and friends.  At the end of the month is a three-day   holiday that celebrates the conclusion of the month with Eid al-Fitr and   prepares individuals to return to their regular daily routine.

Fasting   is one of the pillars of Islam. “The month of Ramadan, during which the Qur’an   was revealed, a guidance for mankind, and clear proofs of the guidance and the   criterion; and whoever of you is resident, let him fast the month” (al-Qur’an,   2:185).

Fasting   is compulsory upon every sane, adult, healthy Muslim male who is not traveling   at that time. As for a Muslim female, she must not be menstruating or having   post-childbirth bleeding. People who are insane, minors, and those who are   traveling, menstruating, or going through post-childbirth bleeding, and the   elderly and breast-feeding or pregnant women do not need to observe the   fast.

There   are those who may not fast but have to make up the missed days of fasting at a   later date.  These include those who are ill (not chronically) and   travelers. “And [for] him who is sick among you or on a journey, [the same]   number of other days.” (al-Qur’an, 2:184). Elderly men and women are exempted   from fasting; so are the chronically ill, and those who have to perform   difficult jobs under harsh circumstances and who could not find any other way   to support themselves. They are not obliged to make up the days they missed   but in turn are obliged to feed one poor person a day (for every day of   fasting that they do not perform). Pregnant and breast-feeding women who fear   for themselves or for their babies may break their fast, feed one poor person   for every day they miss, and make up the missed days at a later time. Women   who are constantly pregnant or breast-feeding are not obliged to make up the   days. Though the young are not required to fast, it is proper for their   parents or guardians to encourage them to fast so they will become accustomed   to it at an early age. They may fast as long as they are able to and then   break it.

The main   objective of fasting is to achieve piety and righteousness. This implies   becoming conscious of our Creator, increasing our awareness of His Majesty,   exalting and glorifying His names and attributes, appreciating His greatness,   recalling His blessings upon us, and being grateful and thankful for His   guidance. “O you who believe! Fasting is prescribed to you as it was   prescribed to those before you, so you may remain conscious of God”   (al-Qur’an, 2 : 183).

During  Ramadan while individuals abstain from food and drink during day light hours,   they get together over food with families and friends in the evenings. The   meal with which the fast is broken is called iftar. Usually the meal is simple   designed to provide nourishment, but may sometimes be sumptuous when there is   a large get-together of family and friends.

Abstaining from   food has great ramification on the person observing the fast, physical as well   as spiritual. It is an exercise for the discipline and control of the baser   self. One learns how to restrain one’s urges and desires. Fasting frees the   person from the bondage of lusts and desires. Abstaining from intakes also   reminds us of the less fortunate ones, the poor and the destitute. Fasting   gives us a general sense of how they feel. It boosts the morale of the poor by   knowing that even kings have to go hungry for a while. Fasting makes the rich   realize and understand what the poor goes through day after day. Fasting also   purifies one’s heart and tongue. One is urged to control himself and learn how   to abstain from vain talk, lying, and cheating. Although fasting is beneficial   to health, it is mainly a method of self-purification and self-restraint. By   cutting oneself from worldly comforts, even for a short time, a fasting person   focuses on his or her purpose in life by constantly being aware of the   presence of God.

The   month of Ramadan is not only the month of fasting. It is also the month of the   Qur’an. The Qur’an is the Muslim Scripture. “Ramadan is the (month) in which   the Qur’an was sent down, as a guide to mankind, also Clear (Signs) for   guidance and the differentiation (between right and wrong)”(al-Qur’an, 2 :   185). According to a prophetic tradition, it is believed that all Abrahamic   Scriptures including the Scrolls of Abraham, the Torah, the Gospel, the Psalms   of David, and the Qur’an were revealed in the month of Ramadan.

Practicing   Muslims congregate at mosques observing the nightly prayers (tarawih)   that start after the last prayer of the day, about an hour and a half after   sunset. The nightly prayers usually last for nearly an hour. Every night the   Imam (leader in prayer) recites an equal portion of the Qur’an so that by the   27th or the 29th night of Ramadan the entire Qur’an would have been recited by   the Imam from his memory. Reciting the Qur’an not only brings one nearer to   God, but also rejuvenates one’s spirit and soul. Reciting the Qur’an,   reflecting upon the divine words, and acting upon the divine teachings are   central to Ramadan.

As the   end of Ramadan approaches, Muslims prepare for Eid al-fitr (end of fasting   celebration), which draws Ramadan to a close. Eid is a time of giving gifts,   sharing food, gathering with family and taking a holiday.

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

Importance of Ramadan

Importance Of Ramadan

Importance of Ramadan lies in the fact that it is one of the five basic and foremost pillars of Islam. It has been made obligatory for the muslims to keep fast during the holy month of Ramadan. Basically, Ramadan is not just about starving, in fact this month teaches the muslims about self-restraint. Moreover, in Ramadan muslims realize the poor people’s conditions and develop a sense of sympathy and cooperation for them. The month of Ramadan brings with itself numerous blessings and benefits for the muslims. That is why, muslim all over the world becomes joyous, cheerful and enthusiastic as soon as Ramadan arrives, in spite of the fasting and sacrifices they have to offer in this month.
Ramadan is one of the most awaited and sacred festivals of Islam. People start preparations as soon as the advent of Ramadan comes closer. In the month of Ramadan, special arrangements are made of Salat-e-Traweeh (in which whole Quran is recited during the holy month), and Ietekaaf in the last ten days of Ramadan. Mosques are found full of people who indulge themselves in more prayers, Quran recitation, and in reading the other Islamic scriptures. Most of the mosques are decorated with lights and small flags etc. To sum up, the whole environment is completely changed as soon as the month of Ramadan arrives.
The holy month of Ramadan is considered to be very important for all the muslims. In Ramadan, muslim learns self-restraint or self-control. They keep themselves away of unlawful deeds and practices which they usually perform during the rest of the year. Muslims offer certain sacrifices. As they remain without eating and drinking anything in the specific timings during this month.  In the same way, muslims all over the world sacrifice their inner bad desires and try to remain pious and good muslims. They devote themselves to the will of Allah and make all efforts to stay more and more in worships to please Allah. Apart from this, muslims develop a sense of love and sacrifice for the poor and needy people.
Zakat is another important pillar of Islam. Muslims are supposed to pay zakat in the Ramadan. Zakat not only purifies their wealth but by paying zakat, muslims help their muslim brothers and sisters in their financial issues.
Muslims are also blessed in the holy month of Ramadan with supposedly the most auspicious night, ‘Laila-tul-Qadar’, which is concealed by the Allah in the odd nights of the last ten days of Ramadan. In this sacred night, the reveal of the holy Quran was completed.
During the Ramadan, at Sehri and Iftar (feast) times, muslims get together with their families and indulge in these activities. This helps the muslims to strength their relationship ties and live together with love and happiness. Ramadan brings some scientific benefits as well for the muslims. During this month, immunity is developed in the human body and toxins are released which have earlier been built up there. Thus, the importance of the Ramadan is everlasting and muslims will be kept on blessed by it.

Article by: dnd.com.pk

Ramadan: The season of mercy

Ramadan: The season of mercy

There is no better time to start making positive changes in our lives than this blessed month.

Ramadan is a Muslim's recurring opportunity for spiritual enhancement and soul redemption. It is also an annual exercise in self-control and self-restraint, but above all, it is a physical manifestation of our total submission and obedience to Allaah Almighty. Because of this submission and obeying of His order, the Muslim fasts, abstaining from food, drink, and sexual intercourse during the days of Ramadan. This is the physical aspect of fasting. By nightfall, the spiritual aspects take over, because while eating, drinking, and sexual relationship between spouses are permitted during nighttime, the Muslim then engages in prayers that take him/her deep into the night. It is a well-balanced program that lifts the spirit, strengthens the resolve, and asserts Tawheed (Islamic Monotheism) as no other act of worship can.

The conduct of our Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) and his companions may Allaah be pleased with him in Ramadan differs a lot than the way Muslims do today. They dedicated their days and nights for worship. Their lives revolved completely around the book of Allaah, the Quran. Reciting it in and out of prayers. The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) used to review the whole Quran with Jibreel (Angel Gabriel) once every Ramadan. Imaam Al-Bukhaari may Allaah have mercy upon him narrated: “Jibreel used to repeat the recitation of the Quran with the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) once a year (in Ramadan) but he repeated it with him twice in the year he died." The Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) used to stay in ‘I'tikaaf (seclusion in the Masjid) for ten days every year (during Ramadan) but in the year of his death, he stayed in ‘I’tikaaf for twenty days.”

Ramadan is the month of mercy and charity. The mere revelation of the Quran and the commission of the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) to the Prophethood are among the greatest manifestations of Allaah's mercy. Allaah, The Most Exalted, asserts this in numerous verses of the Quran, such as (what means):

“And We have sent down to you the Book (i.e. the Quran) as clarification for all things and as guidance and mercy and good tidings for the Muslims." [Quran 16:89]

And (what means): “So there has [now] come to you clear evidence from your Lord and a guidance and mercy.” [Quran 6:157]

And (what means): “And We had certainly brought them a Book which We detailed by knowledge — as guidance and mercy to a people who believe.” [Quran 7:52]

And (what means): “And We send down of the Quran, that which is healing and mercy for the believers, but it does not increase the wrongdoers except in loss.” [Quran 17:82]

And when Allaah Almighty referred to the commission of our beloved Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) He said (what means): “And We have not sent you, [O Muhammad], except as a mercy to the worlds.” [Quran 21:107].
Moreover, when the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) said describing himself and listing his attributes: "I am the Prophet of mercy." [Al-Bukhaari]

There is no question that our beloved Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) possessed the highest forms of moral and human attributes. Among human beings, he sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) was the most generous, the most merciful, the most courageous, the 'most' and the 'best' of everything good in Islam, and as described by his wife 'Aa'ishah may Allaah be pleased with her his morals were the Quran.

The question is: where does this leave us? Some people dismiss their shortcomings by saying: "I am not the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention )", but where does it say that you have to be a prophet to be merciful, or to be generous, or to be anything for that matter? Granted, that no one can be compared to the Prophet sallallaahu `alayhi wa sallam ( may Allaah exalt his mention ) or even hope to partially attain his high levels and standards, but that should not be an excuse for not following his example and striving to be the best Muslims that we can be.

There are many Prophetic narrations that refer to the depravation of an individual from the very thing he deprives others from, or the rewards, in multiples, of that which he provides. Among these narrations are:

1. "Allaah will not be Merciful to those who are not merciful to mankind." [Al-Bukhaari]

2. "Allaah does not bestow His mercy except on the merciful among His slaves." [Al-Bukhaari]

3. "Every good deed will be rewarded tenfold, up to seven hundred times, and Allaah multiplies to whomever he wills." [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]

4. "Allaah Says: Spend O son of Aadam and I shall spend upon you." [Al-Bukhaari and Muslim]

There is no better time to start making positive changes in our lives than this blessed month. In Ramadan, many good things occur: the rewards are multiplied, the devils are chained, the gates of Hellfire are closed, and the gates of Paradise are opened. Every night of Ramadan, Allaah redeems believers from the pains of Hellfire. It is the month of mercy, repentance, and charity. Use it or loose it!

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Article by: islamweb.net

Jeddah airport gets ready for busy Umrah season

Jeddah airport gets ready for busy Umrah season

JEDDAH: At this important time, the managers and administration team at King Abdulaziz International Airport are getting ready for the busy Umrah season which will start from the beginning of the holy month of Ramadan and will continue until the beginning of Shawal. Typically, the airport receives more than 4 million Umrah pilgrims who arrive on about 27,000 flights throughout the season.

Turki Al-Deeb, director of public relations and information at King Abdulaziz International Airport, said that since the beginning of this current Umrah season (from the middle of last Hijri month of Safar until last Friday), more than 2.4 million Umrah pilgrims arrived in the Kingdom on 18,148 flights, against 1.78 million people who left the Kingdom boarding 9,750 flights.

“The management of the Haj and Umrah complex at the airport have been working since the beginning of Rajab to recruit about 7,000 employees representing 27 government and public sectors in preparation for the peak days of arrival, given that the movement of Umrah pilgrims has now started to pick up and will continue during the last 10 days of Ramadan until the first days of Shawal,” said the director of public relations and media.

He said that the movement at the airport in general is streamlined and continues to flow easily around the clock despite the high density of arrivals and departures of pilgrims, adding that the workers and employees at the airport are using maximum efforts to provide the best services for worshipers and visitors.

He also confirmed the increasing numbers of Umrah pilgrims compared to the same period last year, expecting the total number of Umrah pilgrims coming through King Abdulaziz International Airport to reach more than 8 million by the end of the season.

He emphasized the fact that the procedures for the arrivals and departures are running smoothly in all lounges allocated for such services.

Umrah packages 2016         |        hajj packages 2016          |        Ramadan umrah packages 

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 Article by: arabnews.com

When Day of Judgment will bring ‘death’ to this universe

source: arabnews

When Day of Judgment will bring ‘death’ to this universe

Allah Almighty says: “And the Moon is eclipsed, and the Sun and the Moon are fused together, on that Day man will ask: “Where can I run?” No indeed! There will be no safe place. That Day, the only resting place will be your Lord.” (Qur’an, 75: 8-12)

Consider the people and events that shape your life. You are working hard to get somewhere, trying to find your place in the struggle for a good life. You are very attentive to some matters and reflect deeply upon them. At the same time, you carefully avoid thinking about other matters and, as it happens, many people close to you do the same. Everyone knows what subjects to avoid in conversation and thought. Death is one of these, perhaps the most important one. For them, death is an end to which there is no solution.

The Day of Judgment, which will bring “death” to the universe just like the death of people, is a matter that people do not like to think about; rather, they consider it as a remote and distant matter. They have a vague idea of what will happen on that Day, but since the thought of it scares them, people are inclined to forget about it. Rather than facing up to it, they just get on with their lives instead.

The Day of Judgment is the final day of life on Earth and for the universe. But at the same time, it is the beginning of the eternal life in the Hereafter. On that Day, people will be resurrected, created anew. Believers in Allah and the Hereafter will be hosted in Paradise, whereas unbelievers will be driven to Hell. Therefore, for those who expect such a Day, fully aware of what this event means, it is meaningless to run away from death, the Day of Judgment, and the Hereafter. To the contrary, the reality of death and the events of that Day will lead people to do good in the cause of Allah, direct them to believe in the Hereafter, and bring them closer to Allah. Only the believers will be spared the great fear on that Day, on which previously unseen events will take place, for Allah reveals that they will have no cause for fear or sadness, for: “Not so! All who submit themselves completely to Allah and are good-doers will find their reward with their Lord. They will feel no fear and know no sorrow.”(Qur’an, 2:112)

Those who believed in this Day and in the Qur’an, as well as that the real life is in the Hereafter, while alive and lived accordingly will be safe. They did not disregard the existence of death and were not too vain to worship Allah. Such people will be received in the most pleasant way in the Hereafter, and Allah’s guiding light will be with them on the Day of Judgment. The faithful are given the good news in the Qur’an, as follows: “...on the Day when Allah will not disgrace the prophet and those who believed along with him. Their light will stream out ahead of them and on their right. They will say: ‘Our Lord, perfect our light for us and forgive us! You have power over all things’.”(Qur’an, 66:8)

This book reveals the Day and its events, and warns of its difficulties. What matters most is that the Day of Judgment is a reality for all people and, as such, should not be ignored. This book will help you think about its existence and reality.

The Day is approaching
“And the Hour is coming without any doubt, and Allah will raise up all those in the graves.”(Qur’an, 22:7) Death is coming closer by the day. Whether you are young or old, death is a little closer to you every day, even every minute. You cannot resist time or prevent death’s approach. Nothing you do can change the fact that you and those close to you are only “temporary” beings. Like every other living being, you are advancing toward the Day on which your life will end.

Humanity is not the only part of creation that is subject to death. All other creatures, Earth itself and the whole universe, have a day of death fixed for them. The Day of Judgment is a day of terror and unimaginable fear. But at the same time, it is most wondrous. Everything on Earth will be flattened, the stars will be extinguished and fall in rapid succession, and the Sun will be wrapped up in darkness. All human beings who have ever lived will be gathered and made to witness this Day. This Final Day will be dreadful for the unbelievers, and its Lord will be Allah, Who owns all that exists.

The Day of Judgment, contrary to many people’s belief, is approaching; it is not in the distant future. When it arrives, Earth and everything belonging to it will be destroyed. Ambitions, desires, anger, expectations, lusts, enmities, and pleasures will cease. Plans made for the future will become meaningless, for those who had forgotten that they will be returned to Allah, preferring this world over the eternal life and its misleading wealth, beauty, and pleasures, will have met their end. On this Day, everyone will witness clearly Allah’s existence and will come face to face with the death that they had tried so hard to forget. Their attempt to forget Allah and the Hereafter is finished, and a new beginning, one which will be eternal and bring no happiness to the unbelievers, is awaiting them. From the very first moment of this eternal life, the punishment is so fearsome that those who experience it will beg for “death” and “annihilation.” The beginning of this life is the Day of Judgment and, “the Hour is coming without any doubt.”

Life is temporary, death is real
From your earliest childhood onward, you head for certain goals or are guided by others. You probably will have a family and a job, try to earn more in order to have a better life, educate your children, and hope that they will have a better life than you did. Once a week you meet the other members of your extended family. You take vacations, go to work, and spend the rest of your time at home. Except for a few hiccups on the way, your life progresses orderly and you usually encounter nothing outside the ordinary.

Everything in your life seems to be premeditated, and everyone’s life is like everyone else’s. You need to work to realize these goals, and you need to have a family to continue your lineage. According to this worldview, what else could you possibly want besides “a good job” and “a nice family?” Having achieved these goals, you expect to lead a happy life.

However, some important changes are happening in your body and environment. Many cells with diverse functions fulfill their purpose and die. As you age, it becomes harder to replace them. Your body is ageing visibly, as seen through your illnesses and weaknesses. Time moves fast, and the impossibility of reversing it becomes clearer every day. Thinking that you were going to live happily and comfortably forever, you are nevertheless nearing death.

Thus, this worldly life can never give the sense of contentment and peace you expect. When this “satisfying” life ends, you will come face to face with the real truth. Given this fact, none of your life ambitions should become your true purpose in life. This life is a temporary trial to separate the righteous from the evildoers. Allah reveals this reality in the following verse: “He Who created death and life to test which of you is best in action. He is the Almighty, the Ever-Forgiving.”(Qur’an, 67:2)

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Why Qur’an is a divine book

Why Qur’an is a divine book

IF one assumes that the Qur’an is the product of a man’s mind, then one would expect it to reflect some of what was going on in the mind of the man who “composed” it.

In fact, certain encyclopedias and various books claim that the Qur’an was the product of hallucinations that Muhammad (may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him) underwent.

If these claims are true, then evidence of this would be apparent in the Qur’an. Is there such evidence? In order to determine whether or not there is, one must first identify what things would have been going on in his mind at that time and then search for these thoughts and reflections in the Qur’an.

It is common knowledge that Prophet Muhammad (may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him) had a very difficult life.

All of his daughters died before him except one, and he had a wife of several years who was very dear and important to him, who not only proceeded him in death but died at a very critical period of his life.

As a matter of fact, she was quite a woman because when the first revelation came to him, he ran home to her, afraid. Certainly, even today one would have a hard time trying to find an Arab who would tell you, “I was so afraid that I ran home to my wife.” They just aren’t that way.

Yet Muhammad, may the mercy and blessings of God be upon him, felt comfortable enough with his wife to be able to do that. That’s how influential and strong woman she was. Although these examples are only a few of the subjects that would have been on Prophet Muhammad’s mind, they are sufficient in intensity to prove my point.

The Qur’an does not mention any of these things — not the death of his children, not the death of his beloved companion and wife, not his fear of the initial revelations, which he so beautifully shared with his wife — nothing; yet these topics must have hurt him, bothered him, and caused him pain and grief during periods of his life.

Indeed, if the Qur’an was a product of his psychological reflections, then these subjects, as well as others, would be prevalent or at least mentioned throughout.

Scientific approach
 
A truly scientific approach to the Qur’an is possible because the Qur’an offers something that is not offered by other religious scriptures, in particular, and other religions, in general. It is what scientists demand. Today there are many people who have ideas and theories about how the universe works. These people are all over the place, but the scientific community does not even bother to listen to them. This is because within the last century the scientific community has demanded a test of falsification.

They say, “If you have theory, do not bother us with it unless you bring with that theory a way for us to prove whether you are wrong or not.”

Such a test was exactly why the scientific community listened to Einstein toward the beginning of the century.

He came with a new theory and said, “I believe the universe works like this; and here are three ways to prove whether I am wrong!” So the scientific community subjected his theory to the tests, and within six years it passed all three.

Of course, this does not prove that he was great, but it proves that he deserved to be listened to because he said, “This is my idea; and if you want to try to prove me wrong, do this or try that.”

This is exactly what the Qur’an has — falsification tests. Some are old (in that they have already been proven true), and some still exist today. Basically it states, “If this book is not what it claims to be, then all you have to do is this or this or this to prove that it is false.” Of course, in 1400 years no one has been able to do “This or this or this,” and thus it is still considered true and authentic.

Falsification test
 
I suggest to you that the next time you get into dispute with someone about Islam and he claims that he has the truth and that you are in darkness, you leave all other arguments at first and make this suggestion.

Ask him, “Is there any falsification test in your religion? Is there anything in your religion that would prove you are wrong if I could prove to you that it exists – anything?”

Well, I can promise right now that people will not have anything – no test, no proof, nothing! This is because they do not carry around the idea that they should not only present what they believe but should also offer others a chance to prove they’re wrong. However, Islam does that.

A perfect example of how Islam provides man with a chance to verify its authenticity and “prove it wrong” occurs in the 4th chapter. And quite honestly, I was very surprised when I first discovered this challenge. It states: “Do they not consider the Qur’an? Had it been from any other than Allah, they would surely have found therein much discrepancy.” (Qur’an, 4:82)

This is a clear challenge to a non-Muslim. Basically, it invites him to find a mistake.

As a matter of fact, the seriousness and difficulty of the challenge aside, the actual presentation of such a challenge in the first place is not even in human nature and is inconsistent with man’s personality.

One doesn’t take an exam in school and after finishing the exam, write a note to the instructor at the end saying, “This exam is perfect. There are no mistakes in it. Find one if you can!” One just doesn’t do that. The teacher would not sleep until he found a mistake! And yet this is the way the Qur’an approaches people.

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 Article by: arabnews.com