What Did You Want to Know About Islam?

Eid Mubarak!

2010-09-09T05:27:00.005-04:00

Tomorrow, Friday the 10th will be the first day of Eid Ul-Fitr inshallah (God Willing).

I haven't been able to complete the writing on Ramadan, so I will be continuing that after Eid inshallah (God Willing).

Eid Ul-Fitr roughly translates into "Holiday of breaking the fast" and starts on the day directly following Ramadan. Eid Ul-Fitr lasts 3 days. The following are a few Sunnahs (traditions of the Prophet, peace be upon him) regarding Eid:

1 – It is recommended to recite takbeer during the night of Eid from sunset on the last day of Ramadan (after sunset) until the imam comes to lead the prayer. The format of the takbeer is as follows:

Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, laa ilaaha ill-Allah, Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, wa Lillaahi’l-hamd (Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, there is no god except Allah, Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, and all praise be to Allah).

Or you can say Allahu akbar three times, so you say:

Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, laa ilaaha ill-Allah, Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, Allahu akbar, wa Lillaahi’l-hamd (Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great, there is no god except Allah, Allah is Most Great, Allah is Most Great , Allah is Most Great, and all praise be to Allah).

Both are permissible.

2 – You should eat an odd number of dates before leaving for the Eid prayer, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) did not set out on the day of Eid until he had eaten an odd number of dates. He should stick to an odd number as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) did.

3 – You should wear your best clothes – this is for men. With regard to women, they should not wear beautiful clothes (or overtly attractive clothes) when they go out to the Eid prayer-place, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Let them go out looking decent” i.e., in regular clothes that are not overtly fancy or attention-drawing.

4 – Some of the scholars regarded it as recommended to do ghusl (ritual shower) for the Eid prayer, because it is narrated that some of the first generation Muslims did this. Doing ghusl (ritual shower) for Eid prayer is recommended, just as it is prescribed for Friday because one is going to meet people. So if one does ghusl (ritual shower), that is good.

5 – The Eid prayer. The Muslims are unanimously agreed that the Eid prayer is prescribed in Islam.

In the first rak’ah the imam (leader of the prayer) should recite Sabbih isma rabbika al-A‘ala (Surat al-A’la, chapter 87) and in the second rak’ah he should recite Hal ataaka hadeeth ul-ghaashiyah (Surat al-Ghaashiyah, chapter 88). Or he may recite Surat Qaaf (Chapter 50) in the first and Surat al-Qamar (Chapter 54) in the second. Both options are narrated in authentic hadith from the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him).

The Eid Prayer is a bit different than the regular prayer. The following video shows a Eid Prayer. In the beginning, they are reciting the takbeer (listed in point number 1). If you fast forward to 2:50, that is when they start the prayer:

Notice that the imam (leader fo the prayer) says "Allahu Akbar" 7 times extra in the first ra'kah (a total of 8 "Allahu Akbar") than what is normally said in prayer, before starting his recitation. During the second ra'kah, 5 extra "Allahu Akbar" (a total of 6) is said before starting the recitation.

6 – One of the rulings on the day of Eid – Eid al-Fitr – is that Zakaat al-Fitr (almsgiving on the day of breaking the fast) is due on this day. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) enjoined that it should be paid before the Eid prayer. It is permissible to pay it one or two days before that, because of the hadeeth of Ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) which was narrated by al-Bukhari: “They used to give it one or two days before (Eid) al-Fitr.” If it is paid after the Eid prayer, it does not count as Sadaqat al-Fitr, because of the hadeeth of Ibn ‘Abbas: “Whoever pays it before the prayer, it is Zakaat al-Fitr, and whoever pays it after the prayer, it is ordinary charity.” It is haram (forbidden) to delay Zakaat al-Fitr until after the Eid prayer. If one delays it with no excuse then it is not acceptable zakaah, but if there is an excuse – such as if a person is traveling and does not have anything to give or anyone to give it to, or he is expecting his family to pay it and they are expecting him to pay it, then in this case he should pay it when it is easy for him to do so, even if that is after the prayer, and there is no sin on him because he has an excuse.

7 – People should greet one another, offer congratulations and exchange good wishes, no matter what the wording is, such as saying to one another Taqabbala Allaah minna wa minkum (May Allaah accept (good deeds) from us and from you” or “Eid mubarak” (May you have a blessed Eid) and other permissible expressions of congratulations.

It was narrated that Jubayr ibn Nufayr said: When the companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) met one another on the day of Eid, they would say to one another, “May Allaah accept (good deeds) from us and from you.” Al-Fath, 2/446.

8 – It is prescribed for the one who goes out to the Eid prayer to go by one route and return by another, following the example of the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). This Sunnah does not apply to other prayers, Jumu’ah or anything else, it only applies to Eid.

It was said that the reason for that was so that the two routes would testify for him on the Day of Resurrection, for the earth will speak on the Day of Resurrection and say what was done on it, both good and bad.

So Eid Mubarak to all my Muslim brothers and sisters celebrating it!

Courtesy of Islam Q&A

Ramadan 2010

2010-09-03T05:44:00.002-04:00

This article is a compilation of photos of Muslims celebrating Ramadan across the world. The photos are beautiful, so I thought I would share:

http://www.boston.com/bigpicture/2010/08/ramadan_2010.html

Ramadan - When Is It?

2010-08-10T16:01:00.004-04:00

Ramadan is the tenth month in the Islamic calendar. This month is spent by Muslims in worship and fasting during the daylight hours.

Ramadan 2010 will either take place August 11, or August 12, depending on where you live. As of today, the majority of the Muslim world has sighted the moon and decided that Ramadan is tomorrow, Wednesday, August 11.

The reason for this uncertainty of the date is that the Islamic Calendar is a lunar one, whereas the Gregorian calendar is a solar calendar. So in order to find out the date that the new month begins, the moon must be sighted as a crescent moon to signify the beginning of the new month.

The Lunar year is also 11 days shorted than the Solar year, so Ramadan always comes 10-12 days earlier than the year before. How many exact days earlier depends on how many days are in all the other months of the Lunar year. This also means that around every 33 Gregorian years that pass, you are actually one year older (34 years), by Islamic years.

So what if it's a cloudy night, and you cannot see the moon properly? Or what if you live in the North Pole where it's six months of daylight, and six months of dark? The majority of the scholars agree that as long as the moon is sighted in a country that you share a part of the night with, then you can use their moon sighting to signal the start of Ramadan. This fatwa (ruling) is also used to calculate the beginning and end of all other Islamic months.

Some North American Muslims prefer to sight the moon themselves, in their own country, whereas others are fine with starting Ramadan if the moon has been sighted in their country of origin. Therefore, it isn't uncommon to find some Muslims, in the same city, starting Ramadan and Eid-Ul-Fitr on different days than others. Both opinions are correct.

Many cities now try to come to an agreement with all the Islamic centers and organizations so that all the Muslims in the same city celebrate Ramadan and Eid-Ul-Fitr at the same time.

If you would like to wish someone well in Ramadan, the proper greeting is "Ramadan Kareem" (May your Ramadan be full of generosity) or "Ramadan Mubarak" (May you have a blessed Ramadan).

The months of the Islamic Calendar are as follows:

Muharram

Safar

Rabee' Al-Awal (Rabee' the first)

Rabee' Al-Thanee (Rabee' the second)

Jumaad Al-Ulaa (Jumaad the first)

Jumaad Al-Thanee (Jumaad the second)

Rajab

Sha'baan

Ramadan

Dhul-Qi'daa

Dhul-Hijaa

I will be posting more about Ramadan in the upcoming days, so stay tuned!

How to be a Successful Husband

2010-07-19T12:46:00.002-04:00

By Muhammad AlShareef

1. Dress up for your wife, look clean and smell good.When was the last time us men went shopping for designer pajamas? Just like the husband wants his wife to look nice for him, she also wants her husband to dress up for her too. Remember that Rasul Allah - sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam [the Prophet Muhammad] - would always start with Miswak [toothbrush] when returning home and always loved the sweetest smells.

2. Use the cutest names for your wife. Rasul Allah - sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam [the Prophet Muhammad] - had nicknames for his wives, ones that they loved. Call your wife by the most beloved names to her, and avoid using names that hurt their feelings.

3. Don't treat her like a fly. We never think about a fly in our daily lives until it 'bugs' us. Similarly, a wife will do well all day - which brings no attention from the husband - until she does something to 'bug' him. Don't treat her like this; recognize all the good that she does and focus on that.

4. If you see wrong from your wife, try being silent and do not comment! This is one of the ways Rasul Allah - sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam [the Prophet Muhammad] - used when he would see something inappropriate from his wives - radi Allahu 'anhunn. It's a technique that few Muslim men have mastered.

5. Smile at your wife whenever you see her and embrace her often. Smiling is Sadaqah [charity] and your wife is not exempt from the Muslim Ummah. Imagine life with her constantly seeing you smiling. Remember also those Ahadith [traditions] when Rasul Allah - sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam [the Prophet Muhammad] - would kiss his wife before leaving for Salah [prayer], even if he was fasting.

6. Thank her for all that she does for you. Then thank her again! Take for example a dinner at your house. She makes the food, cleans the home, and a dozen other tasks to prepare. And sometimes the only acknowledgement she receives is that there needed to be more salt in the soup. Don't let that be; thank her!

7. Ask her to write down the last ten things you did for her that made her happy. Then go and do them again. It may be hard to recognize what gives your wife pleasure. You don't have to play a guessing game, ask her and work on repeating those times in your life.

8. Don't belittle her desires. Comfort her. Sometimes the men may look down upon the requests of their wives. Rasul Allah - sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam [the Prophet Muhammad] set the example for us in an incident when Safiyyah - radi Allahu 'anha - was crying because, as she said, he had put her on a slow camel. He wiped her tears, comforted her, and brought her the [other] camel.

9. Be humorous and Play games with your wife. Look at how Rasul Allah - sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam [the Prophet Muhammad] - would race his wife Aisha - radi Allahu 'anha - in the desert. When was the last time we did something like that?

10. Always remember the words of Allah's Messenger - sal Allahu alayhi wa sallam [the Prophet Muhammad]: "The best of you are those who treat their families the best. And I am the best amongst you to my family." Try to be the best!

In conclusion: Never forget to make Dua [prayer/supplication] to Allah - azza wa jall [the Mighty and Majestic] - to make your marriage successful. And Allah ta'ala [the Exalted] knows best !!

Courtesy of Islamway

Cloning

2010-06-20T13:19:00.002-04:00

From Bilal Philips' Contemporary Issues, 2002:

Cloning is defined in biology as the production of a genetically identical duplicate of an organism and in the world of scientific technology as the artificial production of organisms with the same genetic material. In simple terms, cloning is genetic duplication.

1) Humans have been cloning roses long before knowing what cloning is. In 1997, cloning made the headlines around the world when Dr. Wilmut announced that he had successfully cloned a sheep named "Dolly" from the mammary cell of an adult ewe. However, Wilmut had actually manipulated an egg rather than actual cloning. This process is referred to as cloning even in scientific circles.

2) The application of cloning techniques to agricultural and animal husbandry might be a clue for boosting food production the world over. Islam has no objection to gene-manipulation in the animal and vegetable kingdom as long as no harm to human life has been confirmed [and it does not cause undue harm or stress to the animals - blogger's note].

3) Cloning may be used to save a life by giving children who need organ transplants to have a clone born to donate organs. The need for bone-marrow transplants in children with leukemia has raised the ethical issues about parents having other children to provide the transplant. Cloning could also be a big advantage for people who have lost a loved one like the copy of a child for a couple whose child had died.

4) Scarcity of organs or human parts is putting tremendous pressure on scientists to come up with a way to generate organs and human parts in the laboratories. Without a parent body, the generation of organs and parts seems unlikely. Consequently, the demand will be for the cloning of an entire human. From the statements of a number of scientists, it appears that the main thrust of cloning a human being is the prolonging of human life with the ultimate goal of achieving eternal life. In the first stage, a human clone would be a source of original spare parts to replace worn out parts in a relatively healthy body. Ultimately, a brain transplant would eliminate multiple operations in an old or unhealthy body. The belief that the totality of a human being is the contents of the human brain offers the possibility of avoiding operations by simply attaching electrodes tot he human brain and downloading its contents into a computer. Once the process is complete, electrodes could be reattached to a cloned body and the stored contents of the computer could be uploaded into the new body. In that way human beings could afford such an operation could live forever.

5) Islam opposes such plans because, if they succeeded the clone would be another human being, having its own spirit and right to life. The clone would be like an identical twin who, though looking exactly the same as its brother/sister, is a unique individual.

6) Those believing that humans are the contents of their brains, since the '70s, have paid tens of thousands of dollars to have their heads severed at death and preserved in liquid nitrogen with the hope that they will be revived at some time in the future. However, their fate is no different from the pharaohs who mummified their bodies in the vain belief that they would continue to live after their deaths. Death is a one way street. There is no coming back. The near death experiences are hallucinations. Those who were revived did not die, but only appeared to die to observers or to less sensitive instruments.

7) Cloning has also been proposed as a possible solution for getting children if parents happen to be infertile. This would create ethical problems as a clone of the husband would be genealogically his brother and of the wife her sister.

[Islam is strict about maintaining genealogy, so the child of a couple should always be biologically theirs, meaning that the sperm and egg must belong to the couple themself. Adoption is another issue that will be discussed further at another time. - blogger's note]

Patience and Perseverance

2010-06-11T13:19:00.001-04:00

Anas (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) passed by a woman who was crying over a grave and said, "Fear Allah and be patient." She said, "Away from me! My calamity has not befallen you and you are not aware of it." The woman was later told that it was the Prophet (PBUH) (who had advised her). She came to his door where she found no doorkeeper. She said, "(I am sorry) I did not know you." Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "Patience is (becoming) only at the first (stroke) of grief".[Al-Bukhari and Muslim].

Another narration in Muslim says: The woman was crying over her son.

Commentary:

This Hadith indicates the excellence of the Prophet's character. The woman whom he advised to have patience did not behave properly, but the Prophet (PBUH) was neither annoyed nor did he reproach her. When she appeared before him for the second time, he again repeated his advice for patience.

A Promise

2010-06-08T12:13:00.002-04:00

I've been forgetting to add new entries. The last entry is from December 2009!

So, I will promise you all something. I will be updating this blog weekly. Every Friday, expect a new entry inshallah (God Willing).

If you have any specific topics you would like to learn more about, either leave a comment here, or email me at whatdidyouwant2know@gmail.com

Inshallah, I will have a new entry this Friday :)

Hadith of the Day

2009-12-30T07:34:00.000-05:00

Abu Hurairah (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: Messenger of Allah (PBUH) said, "The believers who show the most perfect Faith are those who have the best behaviour, and the best of you are those who are the best to their wives".[At-Tirmidhi].

The Prophet Abraham (peace be upon him)

2009-12-25T12:59:00.007-05:00

Allah sent His Prophet Ibraheem (peace be upon him) and ordained among his offspring Prophethood and the Book (al-‘Ankaboot 29:27).

“And mention in the Book (the Qur’an) Ibraheem (Abraham). Verily, he was a man of truth, a Prophet [Maryam 19:41]

Allah guided Ibraheem and honoured him with virtues and praiseworthy characteristics:

“Verily, Ibraheem (Abraham) was an Ummah (a leader having all the good righteous qualities), or a nation, obedient to Allah, Haneef (i.e. to worship none but Allah, a monotheist), and he was not one of those who were Al-Mushrikoon (polytheists, idolaters, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allah, and those who joined partners with Allah).

(He was) thankful for His (Allah’s) Favours. He (Allah) chose him (as an intimate friend) and guided him to a Straight Path.

And We gave him good in this world, and in the Hereafter he shall be of the righteous”[al-Nahl 16:120-122]

Ibraheem (peace be upon him) was the father of the Prophets; no Prophet was sent after him but he was from among his descendants. He had two sons whom Allah chose to be Prophets. They were Isma’eel (Ishmael) the grandfather of the Arabs, from among whose descendants Allah sent the Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), and Ishaaq (Isaac) whom Allah blessed with a Prophet called Ya’qoob (Jacob), who was also known as Israa’eel (Israel), after whom Bani Israa’eel (the Children of Israel) and their Prophets were called.

The Qur’an refers to the fact that Ibraheem was the father of the Prophets, when it says concerning Ibraheem:

“And We bestowed upon him Ishaaq (Isaac) and Ya‘qoob (Jacob), each of them We guided, and before him, We guided Nooh (Noah), and among his progeny Dawood (David), Sulaymaan (Solomon), Ayyoob (Job), Yoosuf (Joseph), Moosa (Moses), and Haaroon (Aaron). Thus do We reward Al-Muhsinoon (the good-doers).

And Zakariyya (Zachariya), and Yahya (John) and ‘Eesa (Jesus) and Ilyaas (Elias), each one of them was of the righteous.

And Isma‘eel (Ishmael) and Al-Yasaa‘ (Elisha), and Yoonus (Jonah) and Loot (Lot), and each one of them We preferred above the ‘Aalameen [mankind and jinn (of their times)]”[al-An’aam 6:84-86]

Ibraheem called his people in Mesopotamia to worship Allah alone and to stop worshiping the idols which could neither bring benefit nor cause harm. Allah says:

“And (remember) Ibraheem (Abraham) when he said to his people: ‘Worship Allah (Alone), and fear Him: that is better for you if you did but know.

You worship besides Allah only idols, and you only invent falsehood. Verily, those whom you worship besides Allah have no power to give you provision, so seek your provision from Allah (Alone), and worship Him (Alone), and be grateful to Him. To Him (Alone) you will be brought back’”[al-‘Ankaboot 29:16-17]

Ibraheem (peace be upon him) wanted to free his people from idol-worship and rid them of myths and legends. He asked his people about these idols, as Allah tells us:

“And recite to them the story of Ibraheem (Abraham).

When he said to his father and his people: ‘What do you worship?’

They said: ‘We worship idols, and to them we are ever devoted.’

He said: ‘Do they hear you, when you call on (them)?

Or do they benefit you or do they harm (you)?’

They said: ‘(Nay) but we found our fathers doing so’”[al-Shu’araa’ 26:69-74]

Then he explained to them that they should not mindlessly follow others like dumb animals and clarified for them the ultimate reality which is that they should worship Allah alone, in Whose hand is the dominion of all things:

“He said: ‘Do you observe that which you have been worshiping

You and your ancient fathers?

Verily, they are enemies to me, save the Lord of the ‘Aalameen (mankind, jinn and all that exists),

Who has created me, and it is He Who guides me.

And it is He Who feeds me and gives me to drink.

And when I am ill, it is He Who cures me.

And Who will cause me to die, and then will bring me to life (again).

And Who, I hope, will forgive me my faults on the Day of Recompense (the Day of Resurrection)’”[al-Shu’araa’ 26:75-82]

The father of Ibraheem was one of the idol-worshipers. He used to carve them and sell them. His father’s kufr (disbelief) troubled Ibraheem, so he singled him out for advice and said to him:

“O my father! Why do you worship that which hears not, sees not and cannot avail you in anything?

O my father! Verily, there has come to me of the knowledge that which came not unto you. So follow me, I will guide you to the Straight Path”[Maryam 19:42-43]

But his father did not respond to him, rather he threatened to stone him and forsake him. He said:

“Do you reject my gods, O Ibraheem (Abraham)? If you stop not (this), I will indeed stone you. So get away from me safely (before I punish you)”[Maryam 19:46]

So Ibraheem had no choice but to leave him, and he said to him:

“Peace be on you! I will ask forgiveness of my Lord for you. Verily, He is unto me Ever Most Gracious [Maryam 19:47]

Ibraheem continued to ask for forgiveness for his father and to ask his Lord to guide him, but when it became clear to him that his father would not change, he disavowed him and stopped asking for forgiveness for him. Allah says:

“And Ibraheem’s (Abraham) invoking (of Allah) for his father’s forgiveness was only because of a promise he [Ibraheem (Abraham)] had made to him (his father). But when it became clear to him that he (his father) is an enemy of Allah, he dissociated himself from him. Verily, Ibraheem was Awwah (one who invokes Allah with humility, glorifies Him and remembers Him much) and was forbearing [al-Tawbah 9:114]

When the people of Ibraheem persisted in worshiping idols, Ibraheem wanted to prove to them in practical terms that these idols could not cause harm or bring benefit, after his preaching and teaching had had no effect on his people:

“Then he cast a glance at the stars,

And he said: ‘Verily, I am sick (with plague). [He did this trick to remain in their temple of idols to destroy them and not to accompany them to the pagan feast)].’

So they turned away from him, and departed (for fear of the disease).

Then he turned to their aalihah (gods) and said: ‘Will you not eat (of the offering before you)?

What is the matter with you that you speak not?’

Then he turned upon them, striking (them) with (his) right hand”

[al-Saaffaaat :88:93]

Ibraheem broke all the idols except the biggest one, which he left so that they could ask it who had done this:

“So he broke them to pieces, (all) except the biggest of them, that they might turn to it”

[al-Anbiyaa’ 21:58]

When they came back from the festival for which they had gone out, they saw the broken idols and they accused Ibraheem (of breaking them). He said to them:

“Nay, this one, the biggest of them (idols) did it. Ask them, if they can speak!”

[al-Anbiyaa’ 21:63]

Because they knew that these idols could not speak – for they were inanimate objects – they said to Ibraheem:

“Indeed you [Ibraaheem (Abraham)] know well that these (idols) speak not!”

[al-Anbiyaa’ 21:65]

When they admitted that these idols could do nothing, Ibraheem said to them:

“Do you then worship besides Allah, things that can neither profit you, nor harm you?

Fie upon you, and upon that which you worship besides Allah! Have you then no sense?”

[al-Anbiyaa’ 21:67]

When they had exhausted all lines of argument, they resorted to the use of force and said:

“Burn him and help your aalihah (gods), if you will be doing”

[al-Anbiyaa’ 21:68]

They gathered a lot of wood and started a fire which had great sparks and flames, then they threw Ibraheem (peace be upon him) into that fire. He said, “Hasbi Allaah wa ni’am al-wakeel (Allah is sufficient for me and He is the best Disposer of affairs).” So Allah saved him from it and made it coolness and safety for him, and foiled the plot of his enemies:

“We (Allah) said: ‘O fire! Be you coolness and safety for Ibraheem (Abraham)!’

And they wanted to harm him, but We made them the worst losers”

[al-Anbiyaa’ 21:69-70 ]

After saving Ibraheem from the fire, Allah commanded him to leave Mesopotamia and migrate to the Holy Land in Palestine. He married his cousin (the daughter of his paternal uncle) – Sarah – and set out with her and his brother’s son Loot for Syria, as Allah says:

“And We rescued him and Loot (Lot) to the land which We have blessed for the ‘Aalameen (mankind and jinn)[al-Anbiyaa’ 21:71]

Then great hardship befell the land of Syria, so Ibraheem moved to Egypt with his wife, then he came back to Palestine, bringing his wife and a slave woman of hers called Hajar. Ibraheem longed to have children, but his wife was barren and had grown old. When she saw how much her husband longed to have a child, she gave her slave woman, Hajar, to him. So he married her and was blessed with his son Isma’eel (Ishmael) from her:

“’My Lord! Grant me (offspring) from the righteous.’

So We gave him the glad tidings of a forbearing boy”

[al-Saaffaat 37:100-101 – interpretation of the meaning]

After Haajar gave birth to Ismaa’eel, Saarah began to feel jealous, so she asked Ibraaheem to send them away from her. Allaah revealed to Ibraaheem that he should take Haajar and the infant Ismaa’eel and take them to Makkah. So he took them and left Haajar and her child Ismaa’eel in an bleak, isolated place in which there was no water, then he left them and went back to Palestine. Haajar said to him, “For whom are you leaving us in this forsaken valley?” But Ibraaheem went and left her, and she said, “Has Allaah commanded you to do this?” He said, “Yes.” She said, “Then Allaah will not cause us to be lost.”

Ibraaheem submitted to the command of his Lord and patiently bore the separation from his wife and child. Then he turned towards where they were at the Sacred House and prayed for them in the following words (interpretation of the meaning):

“O our Lord! I have made some of my offspring to dwell in an uncultivable valley by Your Sacred House (the Ka‘bah at Makkah) in order, O our Lord, that they may perform As-Salaah (Iqaamat-as-Salaah). So fill some hearts among men with love towards them, and (O Allaah) provide them with fruits so that they may give thanks”[Ibraaheem 14:37]

Haajar stayed in Makkah, eating the food and drinking the water that Ibraaheem had left for her and her son. When that ran out, she and her son became thirsty. She looked for water, and climbed the hill of al-Safaa but she did not see anything. Then she climbed the hill of al-Marwah but she did not see anything. She did that seven times, then she turned towards Ismaa’eel and saw water gushing from beneath his feet. She rejoiced and drank some, and gave some to her son to drink. Then a tribe – Jurham – came to Haajar and asked her permission to settle by the water. She gave them permission and they settled beside her. When Ismaa’eel grew up, he married one of their women and learned Arabic from them.

During this period, Ibraaheem used to visit his son from time to time. On one of these visits, Ibraaheem saw in a dream that Allaah was commanding him to sacrifice his son Ismaa’eel. The dreams of the Prophets are true, so Ibraaheem resolved to obey the command of Allaah, even though he was old and Ismaa’eel was his only son. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“So We gave him the glad tidings of a forbearing boy.

And, when he (his son) was old enough to walk with him, he said: ‘O my son! I have seen in a dream that I am slaughtering you (offering you in sacrifice to Allah). So look what you think!’ He said: ‘O my father! Do that which you are commanded, In sha’ Allah (if Allah wills), you shall find me of As-Saabiroon (the patient).’

Then, when they had both submitted themselves (to the Will of Allah), and he had laid him prostrate on his forehead (or on the side of his forehead for slaughtering);

We called out to him: ‘O Ibraheem!

You have fulfilled the dream!’ Verily, thus do We reward the Muhsinoon (good-doers).

Verily, that indeed was a manifest trial.

And We ransomed him with a great sacrifice (i.e. a ram)”

[al-Saffaat 37:101-107]

Then Allah gave him the glad tidings of another son, who was Ishaaq (Isaac), and then Ibraheem returned to Palestine:

“And We gave him the glad tidings of Ishaaq (Isaac) a Prophet from the righteous[al-Saaffaat 37:112]

Ishaaq (Isaac) was born to him from his wife Sarah:

“And his wife was standing (there), and she laughed. But We gave her glad tidings of Ishaaq (Isaac), and after Ishaaq, of Ya‘qoob (Jacob)”

[Hood 11:71]

Then Ibraheem stayed in Palestine for a while, then he returned to Makkah for an important reason. Allah had commanded him to build in Makkah the first House to be built for the worship of Allah. So Ibraheem undertook this task of construction, and his son Isma’eel (Ishmael) was lifting up the stones to him. When the walls grew higher, Ibraheem stood on a rock, and this is the Station of Ibraheem (Maqaam Ibraheem) which is to be found in the vicinity of the Ka’bah. Allah says:

“And (remember) when Ibraheem (Abraham) and (his son) Isma‘eel (Ishmael) were raising the foundations of the House (the Ka‘bah at Makkah), (saying), ‘Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us. Verily, You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knower’”

[al-Baqarah 2:127]

Allah commanded Ibraheem and Isma’eel (Ishmael) to cleanse the House of idols and other impurities so that it would be pure for those who would circumambulate it and stand and bow and prostrate (in prayer). When Ibraaheem built the House, Allah commanded him to call mankind to perform the Hajj, as He says:

“And proclaim to mankind the Hajj (pilgrimage). They will come to you on foot and on every lean camel, they will come from every deep and distant (wide) mountain highway (to perform Hajj)”

[al-Hajj 22:27]

Then Ibraheem offered this great supplication for Makkah and for those who live in it:

“And (remember) when Ibraheem (Abraham) said, ‘My Lord, make this city (Makkah) a place of security and provide its people with fruits, such of them as believe in Allah and the Last Day.’ He (Allah) answered: ‘As for him who disbelieves, I shall leave him in contentment for a while, then I shall compel him to the torment of the Fire, and worst indeed is that destination!’”

[al-Baqarah 2:126]

Then he prayed for himself and his descendants, saying:

“Our Lord! Accept (this service) from us. Verily, You are the All-Hearer, the All-Knower.

Our Lord! And make us submissive unto You and of our offspring a nation submissive unto You, and show us our Manaasik (all the ceremonies of pilgrimage — Hajj and ‘Umrah), and accept our repentance. Truly, You are the One Who accepts repentance, the Most Merciful”[al-Baqarah 2:127-128]

Then he prayed for the people of the sanctuary, that Allah would send to them a Messenger from amongst them, who would call them to worship Allah Alone. He said:

“Our Lord! Send amongst them a Messenger of their own, who shall recite unto them Your Verses and instruct them in the Book (this Qur’an) and Al-Hikmah (full knowledge of the Islamic laws and jurisprudence or wisdom or Prophethood), and purify them. Verily, You are the All-Mighty, the All-Wise”

[al-Baqarah 1:129]

Allah responded to the prayer of His Prophet Ibraheem. He made Makkah a place of security, He blessed its people with fruits and sent to them a Messenger from amongst themselves, who was the Seal of the Prophets and Messengers, Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). All praise and thanks be to Allah.

After Ibraheem, Prophethood remained with the Children of Israel for a long time, until Allah sent Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) from among the descendants of Isma’eel (Ishmael) as a Messenger to all of mankind, and commanded him as He said:

“Say (O Muhammad): ‘O mankind! Verily, I am sent to you all as the Messenger of Allah…’”[al-A’raaf 7:158]

Allah commanded Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) to follow the religion of Ibraheem, as He said:

“Then, We have sent the Revelation to you (O Muhammad saying): ‘Follow the religion of Ibraheem (Abraham) Haneef (Islamic Monotheism — to worship none but Allah) and he was not of the Mushrikoon (polytheists, idolaters, disbelievers)”[al-Nahl 16:123]

Ibraheem’s advice to his children was to adhere to the religion of Islam and follow its commands until they died. Allah said:

“And this (submission to Allah, Islam) was enjoined by Ibraheem (Abraham) upon his sons and by Ya‘qoob (Jacob) (saying), ‘O my sons! Allah has chosen for you the (true) religion, then die not except in the Faith of Islam’” [al-Baqarah 2:132]

O Allah, send blessings upon Ibraheem and upon the family of Ibraheem, for You are Praiseworthy, Most Glorious.

Other Prophets who were alive at the time of Ibraheem (peace be upon him) were Loot (Lot), Isma’eel (Ishmael), Ishaaq (Isaac), and Ya’qoob (Jacob). Then came Yoosuf (Joseph), then Shu’ayb (Jethro), then Ayyoob (Job), then Dhu’l-Kifl. Then Allah sent Moosa (Moses) and Haroon(Aaron) (peace be upon them and may the best of blessings and peace be upon all the Prophets).

Source: Islam Q&A

Abortion

2009-12-25T12:46:00.003-05:00

Many of the pro-life movement view abortion as murder because they believe that "life" begins at conception; when sperm meets egg.

Of course, when life begins is a vital piece of information when it comes to rulings about abortion.

The Islamic perspective is that life begins 120 days after conception. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said:

"Verily the creation of each one of you is brought together in his mother's womb for forty days in the form of a nutfah (a drop), then he becomes an 'alaqah (clot of blood) for a like period [forty days], then a mudghah (morsel of flesh) for a like period [forty days], then there is sent to him the angel who blows his soul into him and who is commanded with four matters: to write down his rizq (sustenance), his life span, his actions, and whether he will be happy or unhappy (i.e. whether or not he will enter Paradise)." Sahih Bukhari and Muslim.

The scholars differ on their views on abortion (since abortion was not around at the time of the Prophet, peace be upon him, and so he did not address it).

Some scholars still view that abortion is wrong, regardless of when it is done.

The majority of scholars, however, view that abortion is acceptable, if it is done during the first 120 days. The majority of the scholars also agree that the woman should first try taking the morning after pill, or the Plan B contraceptive.

Of those scholars, some say it is okay if the woman is experiencing health issues with the pregnancy, or if she was raped; basically dire circumstances.

Others view that abortion is fine if the pregnancy and raising a child would cause mental anguish to the woman (and her husband) or if she just can't handle a pregnancy at the moment.

A general rule in Islam is to take the opinion of the majority of scholars more seriously, since there is less room for individual error.

In conclusion, the majority of Muslims view that abortion, if done during the first 120 days, is allowed, and for a variety of reasons.

Source: Islam Q&A

Eid Mubarak!

2009-11-26T21:00:00.004-05:00

Tomorrow is Eid-al-Adha (The Feast of Sacrifice), so Eid Mubarak (May you have a blessed holiday)!

Eid al-Adha (the Feast of Sacrifice), is the tenth day of the month of Dhu’l-Hijjah. This is the greater and better of the two feasts, which comes after the completion of the Hajj (the pilgrimage), for when the Muslims complete their Hajj (the pilgrimage) they are forgiven.

Rather Hajj (the pilgrimage) is completed on the Day of ‘Arafah [the 9th of Dhu’l-Hijjah] with the standing in ‘Arafah, which is the major pillar of Hajj, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Hajj is ‘Arafah.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi.

The day of ‘Arafah is the day of ransom from the Fire, when Allah ransoms from Hellfire those who stood at ‘Arafah and Muslims who did not stand at ‘Arafah. Hence the day that follows it is a festival for all Muslims in all regions, those who attended Hajj and those who did not.

It is prescribed for all of them to draw closer to Allah by means of the ritual of shedding the sacrificial blood. (Slaughtering a cattle-beast, and distributing a portion of it amongst the poor)

The virtues of this day may be summed up as follows:

1- It is the best of days before Allah.

Ibn al-Qayyim (may Allah have mercy on him) said in Zaad al-Ma’aad (1/54): The best of days before Allah is the Day of Sacrifice, which is the greatest day of Hajj as it says in Sunan Abi Dawood (1765), where it is narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “The greatest of days before Allah is the Day of Sacrifice.” Saheeh Abi Dawood

2- It is the greatest day of Hajj.

It was narrated that Ibn ‘Umar (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) stood between the Jamaraat on the Day of Sacrifice during his Hajj and said, “This is the greatest day of Hajj.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1742.

3- It is the Eid (holiday) of the Muslims

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “The day of ‘Arafah, the day of Sacrifice, and the days of al-Tashreeq are our festival, us Muslims, and they are days of eating and drinking.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 773

Courtesy of Islam Q&A

Hijab - Unveiling the Mystery

2009-11-22T08:31:00.004-05:00

Why do women cover their hair?

Allah says in the Quran:

“And tell the believing women to lower their gaze (from looking at forbidden things), and protect their private parts (from illegal sexual acts) and not to show off their adornment except only that which is apparent, and to draw their veils all over Juyobihinna (i.e. the their bodies, faces, necks and bosoms) and not to reveal their adornment except to their husbands, or their fathers, or their husband’s fathers, or their sons, or their husband’s sons, or their brothers or their brother’s sons, or their sister’s sons, or their (Muslim) women (i.e. their sisters in Islam), or the (female) slaves whom their right hands possess, or old male servants who lack vigour, or small children who have no sense of feminine sex. And let them not stamp their feet so as to reveal what they hide of their adornment. And all of you beg Allah to forgive you all, O believers, that you may be successful” [al-Noor 24:31]

Contrary to popular belief, this is not limited to women only. Preceding the verse in the Qur’an about women lowering their gaze comes the following verse,

"Tell the believing men to lower their gaze and be modest. That is purer for them. Lo! Allah is Aware of what they do." [al-Noor 24:30].

In addition, on the authority of Sahl ibn Sa’d, may Allah be pleased with him, the Prophet, peace be upon him, said, "Whoever can guarantee (the chastity of) what is between his two jaw-bones (the tongue) and what is between his two legs (the private parts), I guarantee Paradise for him." (Bukhari).

Hijab is not worn for men, to keep their illicit desires in check. Rather, Muslim women wear it for God and their own selves. Islam is a religion of moderation, of balance between extremes. Therefore, it does not expect women alone to uphold the society’s morality and uprightness. Rather, Islam asks men and women to mutually strive to create a healthy social environment where children may grow with positive, beautiful, constructive and practical values and concepts. Men are equally required to be modest and to conduct themselves responsibly in every sphere of their lives.

According to Jabir ibn Abdullah, when he asked the Prophet, peace be upon him, about a man’s gaze falling inadvertently on a strange woman, the Prophet replied, "Turn your eyes away." (Muslim) In another tradition, the Prophet, on whom be peace, chided Ali for looking again at a woman – he said, the second glance is from Shaitan.

The concept of modesty and hijab in Islam is holistic, and encompasses both men and women. The ultimate goal is to maintain societal stability and to please God.

Since Muslim women are more conspicuous because of their appearance, it is easier for people to associate them with the warped images they see in the print and broadcast media. Hence, stereotypes are perpetuated and often sisters seem "mysterious" to those not acquainted with Muslim women who dress according to Divine instructions. This aura of "mystery" cannot be removed until their lifestyles, beliefs and thought-systems are genuinely explored. And, frankly, this cannot be achieved until one is not afraid to respectfully approach Muslim women – or any Muslim for that matter.

So, the next time you see a Muslim, stop and talk to him or her – you’ll feel, God-Willing, as if you’re entering a different world, the world of Islam: full of humility, piety, and of course, modesty!

Courtesy of Islam Q&A and Islamway

Birth Control

2009-10-23T08:46:00.005-04:00

Many people have been curious as to how Islam views Birth control. There are many methods of birth control, and the scholars have different opinions regarding each method.

'Azl, or coitus interruptus (withdrawing before ejaculation) and barrier methods:

"With regard to ‘azl (coitus interruptus), or withdrawing during intercourse, the correct scholarly view is that there is nothing wrong with it, because of the hadeeth of Jaabir (may Allah be pleased with him): “We used to practise ‘azl at the time when the Qur’an was being revealed” – i.e., at the time of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). If that action had been haram [forbidden], the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) would have forbidden it. But the scholars say that one should not engage in ‘azl with a woman except with her permission, because she has the right to have children. Moreover, withdrawing without her permission diminishes her pleasure, so not asking her permission causes her to lose out on pleasure and on the possibility of having children. Hence we state the condition that this may only be done with her permission."

From Fataawa al-Shaykh Muhammad ibn ‘Uthaymeen.

Condoms and other barrier methods are viewed in the same light a the withdrawal method, but again, both partners must agree to using them.

Birth Control Pills:

A woman should not use birth control pills, unless the following conditions are met:

1- She should need to use them, for example if she is ill and cannot cope with a pregnancy every year, or she is physically unfit, or there is some other reason that getting pregnant every year may harm her.

2- Her husband should give his permission, because the husband has the right to have children. There must also be consultation with the doctor, to find out whether these pills are harmful or not.

If these two conditions are met, there is nothing wrong with taking these pills, but that should not be on a permanent basis, because that means preventing having children.

IUD, Mirena, and other coil methods:

Using the coil is permissible subject to two conditions:

The first condition is that it should not cause harm to the woman.

The second condition is that her husband should give his permission for that.

Permanent Birth Control (Vasectomy, Tubals, etc):

Shaykh ‘Abd al-‘Azeez ibn Baaz [A prominent scholar] (may Allah have mercy on him) was asked:

What is the ruling on removing the uterus in order to avoid having children for medical reasons which are either present, or may occur in the future and have been predicted by medical and scientific means?

He answered: if that is necessary, then it is OK, otherwise it should not be done, because the Lawgiver urges us to have children and promotes that in order to increase the size of the ummah [nation]. But if there is a necessary reason then it is OK, just as it is permissible to use means of contraception for a limited time for a legitimate shar’i reason. (9/434)

In conclusion, birth control is a personal decision for each couple, and as long as the method causes no harm to the individual, and they do have a legitimate reason for using it, they can. Permanent birth control is frowned upon, but is allowed if the mother's health is in danger during pregnancy.

Source: Islam Q&A

A Convert's Story

2009-10-03T20:22:00.001-04:00

Jesus (peace be upon him)

2009-09-10T02:23:00.002-04:00

Could you give us a brief description of ‘Eesa [Jesus] (peace be upon him)?

Praise be to Allah.

· Maryam [Mary] the daughter of ‘Imran was a pious and righteous woman… She strove hard in worship until she had no peer in matters of worship… The angels gave her the glad tidings that Allah had chosen her:

“And (remember) when the angels said: ‘O Maryam (Mary)! Verily, Allah has chosen you, purified you (from polytheism and disbelief), and chosen you above the women of the ‘Alameen (mankind and jinn) (of her lifetime).’

O Maryam! ‘Submit yourself with obedience to your Lord (Allah, by worshiping none but Him Alone) and prostrate yourself, and bow down along with Ar-Raki‘oon (those who bow down)’”

[Al ‘Imran 3:42-43]

· Then the angels gave Maryam the glad tidings that Allah would bestow upon her a child, whom He would create with the word “Be! And it is.” This child’s name was the Messiah ‘Eesa ibn Maryam (Jesus son of Mary)… He would be held in honour in this world and in the Hereafter, and he would be a Messenger to the Children of Israel… He would teach the Book and wisdom, and the Tawrat (Torah) and Injeel (Gospel) … And he would have attributes and miracles that no one else would have, as Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“(Remember) when the angels said: ‘O Maryam (Mary)! Verily, Allah gives you the glad tidings of a Word [“Be!” — and he was! i.e. ‘Eesa (Jesus) the son of Maryam (Mary)] from Him, his name will be the Messiah ‘Eesa (Jesus), the son of Maryam (Mary), held in honour in this world and in the Hereafter, and will be one of those who are near to Allah.

He will speak to the people, in the cradle and in manhood, and he will be one of the righteous.’

She said: ‘O my Lord! How shall I have a son when no man has touched me.’ He said: ‘So (it will be) for Allah creates what He wills. When He has decreed something, He says to it only: “Be!” and it is’” [Al ‘Imran 3:45-47]

· Then Allah tells us the rest of the glad tidings of the angels to Maryam of her son ‘Eesa (peace be upon him), and of the honour of ‘Eesa, and how He would support him with miracles:

“And He (Allah) will teach him [‘Eesa (Jesus)] the Book and Al-Hikmah (i.e. the Sunnah, [tradition of the Prophet] the faultless speech of the Prophets, wisdom), (and) the Tawrat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel).

And will make him [‘Eesa (Jesus)] a Messenger to the Children of Israel (saying): ‘I have come to you with a sign from your Lord, that I design for you out of clay, a figure like that of a bird, and breathe into it, and it becomes a bird by Allah’s Leave; and I heal him who was born blind, and the leper, and I bring the dead to life by Allah’s Leave. And I inform you of what you eat, and what you store in your houses. Surely, therein is a sign for you, if you believe.

And I have come confirming that which was before me of the Tawrat (Torah), and to make lawful to you part of what was forbidden to you, and I have come to you with a proof from your Lord. So fear Allah and obey me.

Truly, Allah is my Lord and your Lord, so worship Him (Alone). This is the Straight Path’”[Aa ‘Imran 3:48-51]

· Allah is absolutely perfect in His powers of Creation. He creates what He wills, how He wills… He created Adam from dust without a father or a mother, and He created Hawwa’ from the rib of Adam from a father but without a mother. He has caused the descendants of Adam to have both a father and a mother, and He created ‘Eesa from his mother without a father… Glory be to the All-Knowing Creator.

· Allah has explained clearly in the Qur’an how ‘Eesa was born. He says (interpretation of the meaning:

“And mention in the Book (the Qur’an, O Muhammad, the story of) Maryam (Mary), when she withdrew in seclusion from her family to a place facing east.

She placed a screen (to screen herself) from them; then We sent to her Our Rooh [angel Jibreel (Gabriel)], and he appeared before her in the form of a man in all respects.

She said: ‘Verily, I seek refuge with the Most Gracious (Allah) from you, if you do fear Allah.’

(The angel) said: ‘I am only a messenger from your Lord, (to announce) to you the gift of a righteous son.’

She said: ‘How can I have a son, when no man has touched me, nor am I unchaste?’

He said: ‘So (it will be), your Lord said: ‘That is easy for Me (Allah). And (We wish) to appoint him as a sign to mankind and a mercy from Us (Allah), and it is a matter (already) decreed (by Allah)’ ”[Maryam 19:16-21]

· When Jibreel told her that, she submitted to the will and decree of Allah, and Jibreel breathed into the sleeves of her garment:

“So she conceived him, and she withdrew with him to a far place (i.e. Bethlehem valley about 4-6 miles from Jerusalem).

And the pains of childbirth drove her to the trunk of a date palm. She said: ‘Would that I had died before this, and had been forgotten and out of sight!’”[Maryam 19:22-23]

· Then Allah provided Maryam with water and food, and commanded her not to speak to anyone:

“Then [the babe ‘Eesa (Jesus) or Jibreel (Gabriel)] cried unto her from below her, saying: ‘Grieve not: your Lord has provided a water stream under you.

And shake the trunk of date palm towards you, it will let fall fresh ripe dates upon you.

So eat and drink and be glad. And if you see any human being, say: “Verily, I have vowed a fast unto the Most Gracious (Allah) so I shall not speak to any human being this day”’”[Maryam 19:24-26]

· Then Maryam came to her people, carrying her child ‘Eesa. When they saw her, they thought that she had done a terrible thing and they denounced it, but she did not respond to them. She indicated that they should ask this infant, and he would tell them. Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“Then she brought him (the baby) to her people, carrying him. They said: ‘O Mary! Indeed you have brought a thing Fariyy (a mighty thing).

O sister (i.e. the like) of Haaroon (Aaron)! Your father was not a man who used to commit adultery, nor your mother was an unchaste woman.’

Then she pointed to him. They said: How can we talk to one who is a child in the cradle?’”[Maryam 19:27-29]

· ‘Eesa replied to them straight away, even though he was a child in the cradle:

“He [‘Eesa (Jesus)] said: ‘Verily, I am a slave of Allah, He has given me the Scripture and made me a Prophet;

And He has made me blessed wheresoever I be, and has enjoined on me Salaah (prayer), and Zakaah (charity), as long as I live.

And dutiful to my mother, and made me not arrogant, unblest.

And Salaam (peace) be upon me the day I was born, and the day I die, and the day I shall be raised alive!’”[Maryam 19:30-33]

This is the information about ‘Eesa ibn Maryam, the slave and Messenger of Allah. But the People of the Book differed concerning him. Some of them said that he was the son of God, and some said that he was the third of three (“trinity”), and some said that he was God, and some said that he was a slave and Messenger of God. This last view is the correct view. Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“Such is ‘Eesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary). (It is) a statement of truth, about which they doubt (or dispute).

It befits not (the Majesty of) Allah that He should beget a son. Glorified (and Exalted) be He (above all that they associate with Him). When He decrees a thing, He only says to it: “Be!” and it is.

[‘Eesa (Jesus) said]: ‘And verily, Allah is my Lord and your Lord. So worship Him (Alone). That is the Straight Path. (Allah’s religion of Islâmic Monotheism which He did ordain for all of His Prophets).’

Then the sects differed [i.e. the Christians about ‘Eesa (Jesus)], so woe unto the disbelievers [those who gave false witness by saying that ‘Eesa (Jesus) is the son of Allah] from the Meeting of a great Day (i.e. the Day of Resurrection, when they will be thrown in the blazing Fire)”[Maryam 19:34-38]

· When the Children of Israel deviated from the Straight Path and overstepped the limits set by Allah, they did wrong and spread corruption on earth, and a group among them denied the resurrection, Reckoning and punishment. They indulged in their desires and in physical pleasures without expecting to be brought to account. At that point, Allah sent to them ‘Eesa ibn Maryam as a Messenger, and taught him the Tawraat and Injeel as He says (interpretation of the meaning):

“And He (Allah) will teach him [‘Eesa (Jesus)] the Book and Al-Hikmah (i.e. the Sunnah, the faultless speech of the Prophets, wisdom), (and) the Tawrat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel).

And will make him [‘Eesa (Jesus)] a Messenger to the Children of Israel”[Al ‘Imran 3:48]

· Allah revealed to ‘Eesa ibn Maryam the Injeel (Gospel) as guidance and light, confirming that which had come before it in the Tawrat (Torah):

“and We gave him the Injeel (Gospel), in which was guidance and light and confirmation of the Tawrat (Torah) that had come before it, a guidance and an admonition for Al-Muttaqoon (the pious)”[al-Ma’idah 5:46 – interpretation of the meaning]

· ‘Eesa (peace be upon him) foretold the coming of a Messenger from Allah after him, whose name would be Ahmad. This is Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“And (remember) when ‘Eesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), said: ‘O Children of Israel! I am the Messenger of Allah unto you, confirming the Tawrat [(Torah) which came] before me, and giving glad tidings of a Messenger to come after me, whose name shall be Ahmad.’ But when he (Ahmad, i.e. Muhammad) came to them with clear proofs, they said: ‘This is plain magic’”[al-Saff 61:6]

· ‘Eesa (peace be upon him) called the Children of Israel to worship Allah alone, and to obey the rulings of the Tawrat and Injeel… He started to dispute with them and to explain the error of their ways. When he saw how stubborn they were and how the signs of kufr (disbelief) were manifest among them, he stood among his people, saying, Who will be my helpers in the cause of Allah? The disciples believed in him, and their number was twelve. Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“Then when ‘Eesa (Jesus) came to know of their disbelief, he said: ‘Who will be my helpers in Allah’s Cause?’ Al-Hawaariyyoon (the disciples) said: ‘We are the helpers of Allah; we believe in Allah, and bear witness that we are Muslims (i.e. we submit to Allah).’

Our Lord! We believe in what You have sent down, and we follow the Messenger [‘Eesa (Jesus)]; so write us down among those who bear witness (to the truth, i.e. La ilaha illallah — none has the right to be worshipped but Allah)”[Al ‘Imran 3:52-53]

· Allah supported ‘Eesa with great miracles which remind us of the power of Allah, lift the spirit and promote faith in Allah and in the Last Day. He made something like the shape of a bird from clay, and blew into it, and it became a bird, by Allah’s leave. He healed the blind and the leper, and brought the death back to life by Allah’s leave. He told the people what they were eating and what they were storing in their houses. So the Jews to whom Allah had sent ‘Eesa became hostile towards him and tried to the people away from him, so they disbelieved in him and accused his mother of immorality.

· When they saw that the weak and poor believed in him, and were gathering around him, they formed a plot to kill him. So they provoked the Romans against him, and they made the Roman governor think that the call of ‘Eesa contained a threat against (Roman) power. So he (the Roman governor) issued orders that ‘Eesa should be arrested and crucified. But Allah caused a hypocrite who had betrayed him to the Romans to look like ‘Eesa. The soldiers arrested him, thinking that he was ‘Eesa, and crucified him. But Allah saved ‘Eesa from the cross and from death, and Allah tells us about the Jews (interpretation of the meaning):

“And because of their saying (in boast), ‘We killed Messiah ‘Eesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), the Messenger of Allah,’ — but they killed him not, nor crucified him, but it appeared so to them the resemblance of ‘Eesa (Jesus) was put over another man (and they killed that man)], and those who differ therein are full of doubts. They have no (certain) knowledge, they follow nothing but conjecture. For surely; they killed him not [i.e. ‘Eesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary)]:

But Allah raised him [‘Eesa (Jesus)] up (with his body and soul) unto Himself (and he is in the heavens). And Allah is Ever All Powerful, All Wise”[al-Nisaa’ 4:157-158]

· So Eesa (peace be upon him) did not die, rather Allah raised him up to Himself, and he will descend before the Day of Resurrection and will follow Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). He will prove the Jews to be wrong in their claim to have killed ‘Eesa and crucified him. And he will prove the Christians to be wrong who exaggerated about him and said that he was God, or the son of God, or the third of three. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “By the One in Whose hand is my soul, the son of Maryam will descend among you as a just judge. He will break the cross, kill the pigs and abolish the jizyah, (taxes for non-Muslims) and money will become so widespread that there will be no one who will accept it.” (Agreed upon; narrated by Muslim, no. 155).

· When ‘Eesa comes down before the Day of Resurrection, the People of the Book will believe in him, as Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“And there is none of the people of the Scripture (Jews and Christians) but must believe in him [‘Eesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), as only a Messenger of Allah and a human being] before his [‘Eesa (Jesus) or a Jew’s or a Christian’s] death (at the time of the appearance of the angel of death). And on the Day of Resurrection, he [‘Eesa (Jesus)] will be a witness against them”

[al-Nisaa’ 4:159]

· ‘Eesa ibn Maryam is the slave of Allah and His Messenger. Allah sent him to guide the Children of Israel and to call them to worship Allah alone, as Allah says to the Jews and Christians (interpretation of the meaning):

“O people of the Scripture (Christians)! Do not exceed the limits in your religion, nor say of Allah aught but the truth. The Messiah ‘Eesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), was (no more than) a Messenger of Allah and His Word, (‘Be!’ — and he was) which He bestowed on Maryam (Mary) and a spirit (Rooh) created by Him; so believe in Allah and His Messengers. Say not: ‘Three (trinity)!’ Cease! (it is) better for you. For Allah is (the only) One Ilaah (God), glory is to Him (Far Exalted is He) above having a son. To Him belongs all that is in the heavens and all that is in the earth. And Allah is All Sufficient as a Disposer of affairs”[al-Nisaa’ 4:171]

· Saying that ‘Eesa is the son of God is a monstrous saying and a great evil.

“And they say: ‘The Most Gracious (Allah) has begotten a son (or offspring or children) [as the Jews say: ‘Uzair (Ezra) is the son of Allah, and the Christians say that He has begotten a son [‘Eesa (Jesus)], and the pagan Arabs say that He has begotten daughters (angels and others)].’

Indeed you have brought forth (said) a terrible evil thing.

Whereby the heavens are almost torn, and the earth is split asunder, and the mountains fall in ruins,

That they ascribe a son (or offspring or children) to the Most Gracious (Allah).

But it is not suitable for (the Majesty of) the Most Gracious (Allah) that He should beget a son (or offspring or children).

There is none in the heavens and the earth but comes unto the Most Gracious (Allah) as a slave[Maryam 19:88-93]

· ‘Eesa ibn Maryam is a human being, a slave of Allah and His Messenger. Whoever believes that the Messiah son of Maryam is God is a disbeliever (kafir).

“Surely, they have disbelieved who say: Allah is the Messiah [‘Eesa (Jesus)], son of Maryam (Mary)’”[al-Ma’idah 5:72]

· Whoever says that the Messiah is the son of God or the third of three is also a disbeliever:

“Surely, disbelievers are those who said: ‘Allah is the third of the three (in a Trinity).” But there is no Ilaah (god) (none who has the right to be worshipped) but One Ilaah (God —Allah). And if they cease not from what they say, verily, a painful torment will befall on the disbelievers among them”[al-Ma’idah 5:73]

· The Messiah son of Maryam was a human being. He was born from a mother; he ate and drank, got up and went to sleep, suffered pain and wept… and God (Allah) is far above all of that, so how could he be God? Rather he is the slave of Allah and His Messenger:

“The Messiah [‘Eesa (Jesus)], son of Maryam (Mary), was no more than a Messenger; many were the Messengers that passed away before him. His mother [Maryam (Mary)] was a Siddeeqah [i.e. she believed in the Words of Allah and His Books]. They both used to eat food (as any other human being, while Allah does not eat). Look how We make the Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) clear to them; yet look how they are deluded away (from the truth)”[al-Ma’idah 5:75]

· The Jews, Christians, crusaders and their followers distorted the religion of the Messiah, and deviated and changed it. They said that Allah sent forth his son the Messiah to be killed and crucified as a sacrifice for mankind – so it doesn’t matter if anyone does whatever he wants, because Jesus will carry all his sins for him… And they spread that belief among all the Christian groups until it became a part of their beliefs. All of this is falsehood and is lies against Allah, and speaking about Him without knowledge. Rather “every soul will be (held) in pledge for its deeds”. Man’s life cannot be sound or correct unless they have a path to follow and limits at which to stop.

“Then woe to those who write the Book with their own hands and then say, ‘This is from Allah,’ to purchase with it a little price! Woe to them for what their hands have written and woe to them for that they earn thereby” [al-Baqarah 2:79]

· Allah has taken from the Christians the pledge that they will follow ‘Eesa and follow that which he brought, but they changed and distorted that; they differed then they turned away. Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“And from those who call themselves Christians, We took their covenant, but they have abandoned a good part of the Message that was sent to them. So We planted amongst them enmity and hatred till the Day of Resurrection (when they discarded Allah’s Book, disobeyed Allah’s Messengers and His Orders and transgressed beyond bounds in Allah’s disobedience); and Allah will inform them of what they used to do”[al-Ma’idah 5:14]

· On the Day of Resurrection, ‘Eesa will stand before the Lord of the Worlds, Who will ask him before the witnesses what he said to the Children of Israel, as Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

“And (remember) when Allah will say (on the Day of Resurrection): ‘O ‘Eesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary)! Did you say unto men: “Worship me and my mother as two gods besides Allah?”’ He will say: ‘Glory be to You! It was not for me to say what I had no right (to say). Had I said such a thing, You would surely have known it. You know what is in my inner-self though I do not know what is in Yours; truly, You, only You, are the All-Knower of all that is hidden (and unseen).

Never did I say to them aught except what You (Allah) did command me to say: “Worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord.”’ And I was a witness over them while I dwelt amongst them, but when You took me up, You were the Watcher over them; and You are a Witness to all things. (This is a great admonition and warning to the Christians of the whole world).

If You punish them, they are Your slaves, and if You forgive them, verily, You, only You, are the All Mighty, the All Wise”’

[al-Ma’idah 5:116-118]

‘Eesa ibn Maryam was the last of the Prophets sent to the Children of Israel. Then after him Allah sent Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), from among the descendents of Isma’eel (Ishmael), to all of mankind. And he is the last of the Prophets and Messengers.

Honor Killings

2009-09-09T05:31:00.002-04:00

What does Islam say about honor killings?

Islam maintains the protection of life and does not sanction any violation against it. In the Glorious Qur’an, Allah, Most High, says, “Whoso slayeth a believer of set purpose, his reward is Hell for ever. Allah is wroth against him and He hath cursed him and prepared for him an awful doom.” (An-Nisa’: 93)

`Abdullah ibn Mas`ud, may Allah be pleased with him, reported that the Messenger of Allah, peace and blessings be upon him, said, "The blood of a Muslim may not be legally spilt other than in one of three [instances]: the married person who commits adultery; a life for a life; and one who forsakes his religion and abandons the community." (Reported by Al-Bukhari and Muslim)

Focusing more on your question, Sheikh Ahmad Kutty, a senior lecturer and an Islamic scholar at the Islamic Institute of Toronto, Ontario, Canada, states:

“There is no such concept in Islam that is called “honor killing”. Islam holds every soul in high esteem and does not allow any transgression upon it. It does not allow people to take the law in their own hands and administer justice, because doing so will be leading to chaos and lawlessness. Therefore, based on this, Islam does not permit such killings.

First of all, in order to sanction killing, it must be through a binding verdict issued by an authoritative law court. Individuals themselves have no authority either to judge cases or pass judgments. Therefore, a Muslim should not sanction such killing because doing so will be leading to the rule of the law of the jungle. A civilized society cannot be run by such laws.”

Shedding more light on it, Sheikh `Atiyyah Saqr, former head of Al-Azhar Fatwa Committee, states:

“Like all other religions, Islam strictly prohibits murder and killing without legal justification. Allah, Most High, says, “Whoso slayeth a believer of set purpose, his reward is Hell for ever. Allah is wroth against him and He hath cursed him and prepared for him an awful doom.” (An-Nisa’: 93)

The so-called “honor killing” is based on ignorance and disregard of morals and laws, which cannot be abolished except by disciplinary punishments.

It goes without saying that people are not entitled to take the law in their own hands, for it’s the responsibility of the Muslim State and its concerned bodies to maintain peace, security, etc., and to prevent chaos and disorder from creeping into the Muslim society.”

Moreover, the eminent Muslim scholar, Sheikh Muhammad Al-Hanooti, member of the North American Fiqh Council, adds:

“In Islam, there is no place for unjustifiable killing. Even in case of capital punishment, only the government can apply the law through the judicial procedures. No one has the authority to execute the law other than the officers who are in charge.

Honor killing could be a wrong cultural tradition. It is unjust and inhumane action. The murderer of that type deserves punishment.”

Courtesy of IslamOnline

Household Chores

2009-09-08T06:58:00.003-04:00

I came across this Hadith (Tradition of the Prophet, peace be upon him) which I wanted to share:

Al-Aswad bin Yazid (May Allah be pleased with him) reported: `Aishah (May Allah be pleased with her) was asked:

"What did Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) used to do inside his house?"

She answered: "He used to keep himself busy helping members of his family, and when it was the time for Salat (the prayer), he would get up for prayer."[Al-Bukhari].

Commentary:

Here too, we are informed about the extreme humbleness of Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him). Many a man deems his insult and indignity to extend his co-operation to woman in household affairs. This is against the practice of Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him). To co-operate with woman in doing domestic things is a Sunnah [tradition of the Prophet] and man should not feel complex in it. However, an excessive interest in domestic engagements which makes one indifferent to Salat [prayer] is not desirable. Rather, one [man or woman] is supposed to give up all domestic engagements when it is time to offer Salat [prayer] and be ready for it.

Questions About Prayer

2009-08-18T07:38:00.005-04:00

Why are you required to pray at certain times during the day facing Mecca?

It is a pillar of Islam to pray 5 times a day (at dawn, at noon, at afternoon, at dusk and in the evening) and we all pray facing one direction, which happens to be the ka'aba in Mecca (which is also the place where Muslims go for pilgrimage). As for why, the answer to this question is the same as the answer to any "whys" about Islam: because Allah (God) commanded us to.

Why do you not pray towards heaven?

Muslim prayer consists of a series of bows and prostrations... you cannot really prostrate towards heaven since heaven is above everything. Here is a video of Muslim prayer, just so you can get an idea of what I mean:

Are Muslim prayers all set prayers.

No. This is the "formal prayer" if you will... You could always just say "Dear God....." without the actions, and ask for what you want.

Is the wording the same for them?

Yes, but you can also add on to it if you want.

What do you do if you are at work/school and it is time to pray and there is not place to pray in the manner shown?

Prayer is very important to us, and you cannot miss prayer. It has to be done during its "time slot." Personally, if I am in school, I find a quiet corner, or pray near a deserted staircase. In the mall, I have prayed in a changing room before. When traveling, you have a little bit of leeway (you can for instance, pray the prayer shortened, and pray two prayers at once). The place for prayer just has to be clean and no one should pass in front of you. This can be done by taking a clean rug with you and laying it on the floor (or sometimes when I am outside, I just put my jacket on the floor) and if you put an object in front of you, then no one would be passing in front of you, or you could pray facing a wall.

Is personal prayer part of Muslim prayer as well or is it more formal prayers with set words and set times of the day?

Yes, personal prayers are also done. They can be "informal" (just talking to God), or you can pray extra "formal" prayers, or you can add your own words to your daily 5 prayers. The "informal" prayers are called duaa, which is translated as supplication, and there is a duaa for pretty much everything under the sun (trying to remember something, wishing someone well when they are sick, congratulating someone on marriage, etc, etc). Also, you could always just make up your own prayer (supplication) and ask God for whatever you need.

What Is the Courtship Process in Islam?

2009-05-26T22:27:00.002-04:00

Would you be so kind as to explain your courtship process? Are there guidelines in Islam that direct you to adhere to certain dating rules? Are marriages arranged? Must parents agree on the potential spouse? Can you explain a little about your marriage ceremony (if it is not too sacred to discuss on a public board)?

Basically, before you are married, you are not allowed to kiss, hold hands, or have sex. You are also not allowed to be alone in a place together that may lead you to temptation. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “No man is ever alone with a (non-mahram, i.e. non-relative) woman but the Shaytaan (Satan) is the third one present.” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 2165). Meaning that when a man and woman are alone together, there is always temptation.

Marriages can be arranged, but do not have to be. It is a choice, but both ways, both the bride and groom have to agree to who they will marry. If you are forced into your marriage then it is automatically null. ‘Aa’ishah reported that a girl came to her and said, “My father married me to his brother’s son in order to raise his social standing, and I did not want this marriage [I was forced into it].” ‘Aa’ishah said, “Sit here until the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) comes.” The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) came and she told him about the girl. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) sent for her father, then he gave the girl the choice of what to do. [i.e. divorce her husband, or stay with him] She said, “O Messenger of Allaah, I have accepted what my father did, but I wanted to prove something to other women.” (Reported by al-Nisaa’i, 3217).

You should take your parents' opinion regarding the potential spouse, however, a girl has to be married with the permission of her father, or male figure called a "wali". This is to ensure that her rights are taken care of. However, if there is a potential spouse that is committed in his religion and her father disagrees for no good reason, she could go to a judge who will be her "wali" instead of her father.

When a man proposes and the woman agrees, he must give her a dowry (mahr), which is basically a present that belongs to her and only her... it could be in the form of money, jewellery, etc... basically, he proposes a certain gift, and she either accepts it, or refuses it. This gift belongs to her, not her family.

The marriage ceremony is mainly cultural, and so, it would differ depending on who you're talking to. In Islam, the marriage is writing up the contract and it is highly recommended to have a feast, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said to ‘Abd al-Rahman ibn ‘Awf, “Give a wedding feast, even if it is only one sheep.” (Reported by al-Bukhaari). All the other parts of the ceremony are cultural.

Personal Revelation and Prayer

2009-05-26T16:27:00.003-04:00

Do you believe in personal revelation? If you prayed, would you get an answer?

Yes, I believe personal revelation... It can come in the form of a dream, a feeling, etc.

About prayers, they are always answered but it is a little bit more complicated (du'aa means prayer):

Whoever makes du’aa’ to his Lord receives an answer in all cases. The answer to prayers is not only getting what one asked for; rather there are two other responses that may come which are: warding off evil from the person who made du’aa’, commensurate with his du’aa’, and storing up the reward for the du’aa’ which the person will receive on the Day of Resurrection.

Allah has promised us, on the lips of His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), that whoever calls upon Him, fulfilling the conditions of du’aa’ will receive one of these responses.

It was narrated that Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “There is no Muslim who calls upon Allah with a du’aa’ in which there is no sin or severing of family ties, but He will give him one of three things: either He will answer his prayer, or he will store up an equal amount of good (reward) for him, or He will ward off an equal amount of evil from him.” They said, “O Messenger of Allah, then we shall say a lot of du’aa’?” He said, “Allah is most Generous.” Narrated by Ahmad, 10709.

All of this is what is meant by the verses:

“And your Lord said: ‘Invoke Me [i.e. believe in My Oneness (Islamic Monotheism) and ask Me for anything] I will respond to your (invocation). Verily, those who scorn My worship [i.e. do not invoke Me, and do not believe in My Oneness, (Islamic Monotheism)] they will surely enter Hell in humiliation!’” [Ghaafir 40:60]

“And when My slaves ask you (O Muhammad) concerning Me, then (answer them), I am indeed near (to them by My Knowledge). I respond to the invocations of the supplicant when he calls on Me (without any mediator or intercessor). So let them obey Me and believe in Me, so that they may be led aright” [al-Baqarah 2:186]

It may be better for the person not to get what he asked for his du’aa’, because of evil or fitnah (trial) that may result from his getting it, of which he is unaware. So Allah wards that off from him and gives him something that is better for him in this world, by warding off evil from him, or something that is better for him in the Hereafter, by storing up the reward of the du’aa’ for him.

What Is The Islamic Perspective on Adam and Eve?

2009-05-26T15:59:00.007-04:00

Do you believe that humans evolved, or do you believe in the 'Adam and Eve' story? (or equivalent)

Allah created Adam with His hand and breathed into him his soul created by Him, and told His angels to prostrate to him.

Allah created Adam from dust, as He says:

“Verily, the likeness of ‘Eesa (Jesus) before Allah is the likeness of Adam. He created him from dust, then (He) said to him: ‘Be!’ — and he was” [Al ‘Imran 3:59]

When Allah had completed the creation of Adam, He commanded the angels to prostrate to him, so they prostrated, except for Iblees [Satan... he was living among the angels because he used to be very righteous], who was present but he refused and was too arrogant to prostrate to Adam:

“(Remember) when your Lord said to the angels: ‘Truly, I am going to create man from clay. So when I have fashioned him and breathed into him (his) soul created by Me, then you fall down prostrate to him.’ So the angels prostrated themselves, all of them, Except Iblees (Satan), he was proud and was one of the disbelievers” [Saad 38:71-74]

Then Allah told the angels that He was going to place Adam on earth and make generations after generations of his offspring, as He said:

“And (remember) when your Lord said to the angels: ‘Verily, I am going to place (mankind) generations after generations on earth’” [al-Baqarah 2:30]

Allah taught Adam all the names:

“And He taught Adam all the names (of everything)” [al-Baqarah 2:31]

When Iblees [Satan] refused to prostrate to Adam, Allah expelled him and cursed him:

“(Allah) said: ‘Then get out from here; for verily, you are outcast. And verily, My Curse is on you till the Day of Recompense’” [Saad 38:77-78]

When Iblees [Satan] knew of his fate, he asked Allah to give him respite until the Day of Resurrection:

“[Iblees (Satan)] said: ‘My Lord! Give me then respite till the Day the (dead) are resurrected.’ (Allah) said: ‘Verily, you are of those allowed respite Till the Day of the time appointed’” [Saad 38:79-81]

When Allah granted him that, he declared war on Adam and his descendents, made disobedience attractive to them and tempted them to commit immoral actions:

“[Iblees (Satan)] said: ‘By Your Might, then I will surely, mislead them all, Except Your chosen slaves amongst them (i.e. faithful, obedient, true believers of Islamic Monotheism).’” [Saad 38:82-83]

Allah created Adam, and from him He created his wife, and from their progeny He created men and women, as He says:

“O mankind! Be dutiful to your Lord, Who created you from a single person (Adam), and from him (Adam) He created his wife [Hawwa (Eve)], and from them both He created many men and women” [al-Nisaa’ 4:1]

Then Allah caused Adam and his wife to dwell in Paradise, as a test for them. He commanded them to eat of the fruits of Paradise but He forbade them to eat from one tree:

“And We said: ‘O Adam! Dwell you and your wife in the Paradise and eat both of you freely with pleasure and delight, of things therein as wherever you will, but come not near this tree or you both will be of the Zaalimoon (wrong-doers)’” [al-Baqarah 2:35]

Allah warned Adam and his wife against the Shaytaan, as He said:

“O Adam! Verily, this is an enemy to you and to your wife. So let him not get you both out of Paradise, so that you will be distressed” [Ta-Ha 20:117]

Then the Shaytaan (Satan) whispered to Adam and his wife, and tempted them to eat from the forbidden tree. Adam forgot and could not resist the temptation, so he disobeyed his Lord and ate from that tree:

“Then Shaytaan (Satan) whispered to him, saying : ‘O Adam! Shall I lead you to the Tree of Eternity and to a kingdom that will never waste away?’ Then they both ate of the tree, and so their private parts became manifest to them, and they began to cover themselves with the leaves of the Paradise for their covering. Thus did Adam disobey his Lord, so he went astray” [Ta-Ha 20:120-121]

Their Lord called to them and said:

“Did I not forbid you that tree and tell you: Verily, Shaytaan (Satan) is an open enemy unto you?” [al-A’raaf 7:22]

When they ate from the tree, they regretted what they had done, and said:

“Our Lord! We have wronged ourselves. If You forgive us not, and bestow not upon us Your Mercy, we shall certainly be of the losers” [al-A’raaf 7:23]

The sin of Adam stemmed from desire, not from arrogance, hence Allah guided him to repent and He accepted that from him:

“Then Adam received from his Lord Words. And his Lord pardoned him (accepted his repentance). Verily, He is the One Who forgives (accepts repentance), the Most Merciful” [al-Baqarah 2:37]

This is the way for Adam and his descendents: whoever sins then repents sincerely, Allah will accept his repentance:

“And He it is Who accepts repentance from His slaves, and forgives sins, and He knows what you do” [al-Shoora 42:25]

Then Allah sent Adam and his wife, and Iblees [Satan], down to the earth, and He sent down Revelation to them and He sent the Messengers to them. So whoever believes will enter Paradise and whoever disbelieves will enter Hell:

“We said: ‘Get down all of you from this place (the Paradise), then whenever there comes to you Guidance from Me, and whoever follows My Guidance, there shall be no fear on them, nor shall they grieve. But those who disbelieve and belie Our Ayaat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) — such are the dwellers of the Fire. They shall abide therein forever’” [al-Baqarah 2:38-39]

When Allah sent them all down to the earth, the conflict between faith and kufr [disbelief], between truth and falsehood, between good and evil, began, and it will continue until Allah inherits the earth and everyone on it:

“(Allah) said: ‘Get down, one of you an enemy to the other [i.e. Adam, Hawwa, (Eve), and Shaytaan (Satan)]. On earth will be a dwelling place for you and an enjoyment for a time’ [al-A’raaf 7:24]

Allah is Able to do all things. He created Adam with no father or mother, and He created Hawwa (Eve) from a father with no mother, and He created ‘Eesa (Jesus) from a mother with no father, and He created us from a father and a mother.

Allah created Adam from dust, then He made his descendents from semen of despised water, as He says:

“Who made everything He has created good and He began the creation of man from clay. Then He made his offspring from semen of despised water (male and female sexual discharge). Then He fashioned him in due proportion, and breathed into him the soul (created by Allah for that person); and He gave you hearing (ears), sight (eyes) and hearts. Little is the thanks you give!” [al-Sajdah 32:7-9]

How man is created in the womb, and the stages which he goes through, is a wondrous thing. Allah mentioned this in the ayah (verse):

“And indeed We created man (Adam) out of an extract of clay (water and earth). Thereafter We made him (the offspring of Adam) as a Nutfah (mixed drops of the male and female sexual discharge and lodged it) in a safe lodging (womb of the woman). Then We made the Nutfah into a clot (a piece of thick coagulated blood), then We made the clot into a little lump of flesh, then We made out of that little lump of flesh bones, then We clothed the bones with flesh, and then We brought it forth as another creation. So Blessed is Allah, the Best of creators” [al-Mu’minoon 23:12-14]

Basically, as Muslims, we do not blame Eve nor Adam for what they did, because they did not know... and Allah has forgiven them, so who are we to not forgive them? We also don't believe that it was Eve's fault...

Could you clarify for me these things?

“Verily, the likeness of ‘Eesa (Jesus) before Allah is the likeness of Adam. He created him from dust, then (He) said to him: ‘Be!’ — and he was” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:59]

Does this verse mean Jesus was there at the time of the creation?

No. This verse is referring to how Jesus was created from Mary only. We believe that Mary was a virgin, and was a righteous woman who was touched by no man. The angel Gabriel came to her and told her that Allah will grant her a son. When she asked how that happened, Gabriel said that Allah just says to a person “Be!” and he is. This is just a comparison between how Adam was created without any parents and Jesus was created without a father.

Does the part about Allah is the likeness of Adam mean that Allah has a human form ? Give me your description of Allah so I don't just assume and use my reference points as yours.

No. Allah does not have human form because we are told:

“There is nothing like unto Him, and He is the All-Hearer, All-Seer.” [al-Shoora 42:11].

Is there more to the story.. Is there any part of the Adam and Eve story that is unique to Islam that I may not see without being familiar with Islam?

Well... we believe that Satan took an oath to misguide as many of the children of Adam as possible. We don’t believe he took angels with him because the angels never disobey Allah... they are created without free will, and just obey Allah.

I think the unique aspects of the creation story are mainly that we do not put any extra blame on Eve and we do not believe the concept of original sin (due to the mistake of Adam and Eve) and we do not believe that Jesus died for our sins, or is a saviour.

One VERY important distinction between Islam and other faiths is that NONE of the creation is a part of Allah... Allah is separate and above all things.

There might be more differences, but these are the ones I can think of... If you have any more questions, don’t hesitate to ask =)

What Are The Roles of Men And Women?

2009-05-26T15:49:00.003-04:00

I would like to know what the roles of men and women are.

The roles of men and women are to worship Allah. You can do that as you see fit. There is no law against a woman being the breadwinner, or working. However, in Islam, a woman's money is her own, and she is under no obligation to spend it on the household. It is the man's obligation to spend on all the necessities of his household.

Islam has given women so many rights that were unheard of... a woman can choose whom she marries, has rights to inheritance, her money is her own, and does not belong to her husband, father, or any other male figure, and she is treated as her own person, with her own thoughts, beliefs, and opinions, and this was 1429 years ago!

There are Muslim women scholars, Muslim businesswomen and they are very much respected. To help answer your question further, I've posted an email I sent my prof last year when she posted an article that advocated many misconceptions regarding women in Islam... I also wrote an essay about it for my professor:

Good Afternoon,

I took a look at the Religion and Human Rights Assignment folder and I have to say that I am a bit offended at the subject "Sharia’ and Women's Rights," and not because I'm Muslim, but simply because the articles are just not true.

Sharia’ Law in itself does not violate women's rights. You may be a bit confused as to why I'm saying this, and probably the first thing that happens now is your mind wanders to Saudi Arabia and their treatment of women. I have to say now, that currently, there is no country in today's world that actually applies Sharia’. Some people think that the way supposedly "Muslim" countries govern is in adherence with Islamic Jurisprudence. However, this is not true. Islamic Jurisprudence are laws which are not only set in the Quran, but laws that the Prophet (peace be upon him) enforced. These two criteria must be met for something to be considered as Islamic Jurisprudence. The reason why we also follow the Prophet's example is because if we didn't, corrupt leaders would interpret the Quran as they see fit in order to justify their own agenda. In issues which involve no precedence by the Prophet (example: technology, etc.) The opinion of the majority of scholars is taken as law, and they must show proof of why their opinion is valid.

That being said, all of the examples in the articles are falsely attributed to Sharia’. For instance, article one gives the example of a woman who died and left behind her nine-year-old daughter and abusive husband, and how the family feared for the daughter. Of course, abuse is not tolerated in Islam, just like it is not tolerated in any other religion. The ruling of this is available at this link.

The article also mentions the story of a woman who had to give all her money to her husband and "had to beg him for money to buy a cup of coffee." This is absolutely absurd since under Sharia’ it states that a woman's money is her own, and her husband has no right over it. In fact, the husband is obligated to spend on all her needs and she does not have to give him even a penny. Not only that, but he is also obligated to spend on the needs of her children (be them his own or someone else's). So, in reality, a Muslim woman is allowed to work, but does not have to spend this money on anything, as her husband is obligated to provide for all her needs. One may think this is unfair to the man, however, it is completely fair. Men have always been stronger than women in both the physical sense and the social status sense. This law ensures that they do not abuse this strength, and actually teaches them that with strength comes responsibility. You can find proof of this at this link.

The article also claimed that the woman’s husband punished her by not sleeping with her, and also, he marred a “temporary wife” to fulfill his sexual desires. This is not in accordance with Islamic Jurisprudence, in that the woman did not commit wrong to begin with (as proved in the previous paragraph) and that marriage with the intention of divorce is not allowed in Islam. So if you marry someone, you truly marry them and plan to spend the rest of your life with them. Of course, if things don’t work out, divorce is permissible. (see link)

I am not arguing with this article for any reason other than the statements in the article are completely untrue. I do not mind arguing between secularism and the enforcement of Sharia’ law, but it is not fair to take the patriarchal beliefs of uneducated Muslims and blame it on Sharia’ law. That is why I would really appreciate if you could either find articles that are truthful, or at the very least claim that is what some people conceive to be Sharia’ law.

Thank you for your time.

What is the Muslim View of The Afterlife?

2009-05-26T14:53:00.008-04:00

I just thought of one [a question]. What is your view of death and after death? Is there a type of judgement, heaven, hell, etc. concepts and what are they?

Death and the Hereafter:

This topic is very important. It was narrated by ‘Umar ibn Al-Khattab that the Prophet (PBUH) said: “What do I have to do with this world? My relationship with this world is like that of a traveller on a hot summer’s day, who seeks shade under a tree for an hour, then moves on.” (Reported by Ahmad and al-Haakim. Saheeh al-Jaami’, 5545)

The Messenger of Allah was also reported to have said: “If you but knew what I know, you would laugh little and cry a lot.” (Sahih Bukhari and Muslim).

Thus was the Messenger’s relationship with this world, and this is how our relationship with it should be as well.

There is Al-Qiyama al-Soghra and Al-Qiyama al-Kobra (The Minor and Major Day of Judgement).

Al-Qiyama al-Soghra starts with death.

There is the good ending and the bad ending and the righteous get a good ending.

The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “When Allah wills good for His slave, He sweetens him.” He was asked, “What is this sweetening?” He said, “Allah guides him to do righteous deeds before he dies, then He takes (his soul) whilst he is in that state.” Narrated by Ahmad, 17330

Allah gives the believers glad tidings at the time of death:

“Verily, those who say: ‘Our Lord is Allah (Alone),’ and then they stand firm, on them the angels will descend (at the time of their death) (saying): ‘Fear not, nor grieve! But receive the glad tidings of Paradise which you have been promised!’” [Fussilat 41:30]

This is also indicated by the hadeeth narrated by al-Bukhaari, 6507; Muslim, 2683 from the Mother of the Believers ‘A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her) who said: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Whoever loves to meet Allah, Allah loves to meet him, and whoever hates to meet Allah, Allah hates to meet him.” I said, “O Prophet of Allah, do you mean hating death, for all of us hate death?” He said, “It is not like that; but when the believer is given the glad tidings of the mercy and pleasure of Allah, and His Paradise, he loves to meet Allah, And when the kaafir is given the tidings of the wrath and punishment of Allah, he hates to meet Allah and Allah hates to meet him.”

Al-Nawawi (may Allah have mercy on him) said: What this hadeeth means is that the love and hate that are referred to here are those that happen when one enters the stage in which repentance is not accepted, where the dying person is told of his situation and he is shown his destiny.

Signs of a good end:

1 – Uttering the shaahadah (testimony of faith) when dying, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said, “A person whose last words are Laa ilaaha ill-Allah [there is no go but Allah] will enter Paradise.” Narrated by Abu Dawood, 3116.

2 – Dying with sweat on the forehead, because al-Buraydah ibn al-Husayb (may Allah be pleased with him) said: I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) say, “The believer dies with sweat on his forehead.” Narrated by Ahmad, 22513; al-Tirmidhi, 980; al-Nasaa’i, 1828.

3 – Dying on the night or day of Friday, because the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “there is no Muslim who dies on the day of Friday or the night of Friday, but Allah will protect him from the trial (fitnah) of the grave.” Narrated by Ahmad, 6546; al-Tirmidhi, 1074.

4 – Dying as a fighter for the sake of Allah, because Allah says:

“Think not of those as dead who are killed in the way of Allah. Nay, they are alive, with their Lord, and they have provision. They rejoice in what Allah has bestowed upon them of His Bounty and rejoice for the sake of those who have not yet joined them, but are left behind (not yet martyred) that on them no fear shall come, nor shall they grieve. They rejoice in a grace and a bounty from Allah, and that Allah will not waste the reward of the believers” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:169]

And the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Whoever is killed for the sake of Allah is a martyr, and whoever dies for the sake of Allah is a martyr.” Narrated by Muslim, 1915.

5 – Dying of the plague, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “The plague is martyrdom for every Muslim.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 2830; Muslim, 1916.

It was narrated that ‘A’ishah (may Allah be pleased with her), the wife of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), said: I asked the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) about the plague, and he told me that it is a punishment that Allah sends upon whomsoever He will, and that Allah has made it a mercy for the believers, for there is no one who stays in his land at the time of a plague, bearing that with patience and seeking Allah’s reward, knowing that nothing will befall him but that which Allah has decreed for him, but he will be given a reward like that of a martyr.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 3474.

6 – Dying of a stomach disease. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “… and whoever dies of a stomach disease is a martyr.” Narrated by Muslim, 1915.

7 – Dying because of being crushed by a falling wall or by drowning, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “The martyrs are five: the one who dies of plague, the one who dies of a stomach disease, the one who drowns, the one who is crushed by a falling wall, and the one who is martyred for the sake of Allah.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 2829; Muslim, 1915.

8 – If a woman dies as a result of childbirth, or when she is pregnant. The evidence for that includes the hadeeth narrated by Abu Dawood (3111), according to which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “A woman who dies with child is a martyr.” al-Khattaabi said: What this means is if she dies with a child in her womb. ‘Awn al-Ma’bood.

And Imam Ahmad narrated (17341) that ‘Ubaadah ibn al-Saamit said: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) told us about the martyrs and mentioned among them, “A woman who is killed by the child in her womb attains martyrdom, and her child will drag her by his umbilical cord to Paradise.”

9 – Death caused by burning, pleurisy (a disease) and tuberculosis. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Being killed for the sake of Allah is martyrdom; the plague is martyrdom; drowning is martyrdom; dying of a stomach disease is martyrdom; and the woman who dies in childbirth, her child will drag her by his umbilical cord to Paradise.” (Abu’l-Awaam, the custodian of Bayt al-Maqdis added: and burning and tuberculosis).

10 – Dying to defend one’s religion, one’s wealth or one’s life, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Whoever is killed defending his wealth is a martyr; whoever is killed defending his religion is a martyr; whoever is killed in self-defence is a martyr.” Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 1421.

Al-Bukhaari (2480) and Muslim (141) narrated that ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Amr (may Allah be pleased with him) said: I heard the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) say: “Whoever is killed defending his wealth is a martyr.”

11 – Dying guarding the borders of Islam for the sake of Allah. Muslim (1913) narrated that Salman al-Farisi (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Guarding the borders of Islam for one day and one night is better than fasting and praying at night for a whole month, and if he dies (whist performing this duty), he will go on receiving the reward for this great deed and his provision (continually), and he will be spared the questioning in the grave. ”

12 – One of the signs of a good end is dying whilst doing a righteous deed, because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said:

“Whoever says La ilaha ill-Allah, seeking the Countenance of Allah thereby, and that is the last of his deeds, will enter Paradise. Whoever gives charity and that is the last of his deeds will enter Paradise.” Narrated by Imam Ahmad, 22813.

These are the good signs which point to a good end, but despite that we cannot be certain that a specific person is one of the people of Paradise unless the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) testified that he will go to Paradise, such as the four khalefahs (the four rightly guided caliphs).

Life in the grave:

With regard to the questioning in the grave and the state of the deceased, this questioning is real. The deceased person’s soul will be restored to him; saheeh reports to that effect have been narrated from the Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). The life of the deceased in the grave is different from his life in this world; it is a special kind of life in al-barzakh (the interval between his death and the Day of Resurrection) which is not like his life in this world, where he needs food and drink etc. It is a special kind of life wherein he can understand the questions and answers, so the two angels will ask him, Who is your Lord? What is your religion? Who is your Prophet?

The believer will say, My Lord is Allah, Islam is my religion and Muhammad is my Prophet. This will be the answer of believing men and women. Then he will be asked, What do you know about this man (Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him))? He will say, He is the Messenger of Allah. He brought us guidance and we believed in him and followed him. It will be said: we knew that you were a believer. Then a gate to Paradise will be opened for him, and he will feel its rest and provision and blessings. It will be said, This is your place until Allah resurrects you to it. And he will be shown his place in Hell, and it will be said to him, This would have been your place if you had disbelieved in Allah, but now Allah has granted you refuge from it and you have ended up in Paradise.

As for the kafir (disbeliever), he will be asked about his Lord and his religion and his Prophet, and he will say, Oh, oh, I don’t know, I heard the people saying something so I said the same. Then he will be beaten with an iron rod and will utter a scream that will be heard by all things apart from al-thaqalayn, i.e. jinn and men; the animals will hear it. Then a gate to Hell will be opened for him, and his grave will constrict until his ribs intermingle, and his grave will be like one of the pits of Hell. A gate to Hell will be opened for him and he will feel its heat and torment. It will be said, This is your place until Allah resurrects you to it. Then a door to Paradise will be opened for him and he will be shown his place in Paradise, and it will be said to him, This would have been your place if Allah had guided you.

From this we know that the grave will be either one of the gardens of Paradise or one of the pits of Hell. The torment or blessing will happen to the body as well as the soul in the grave, and also in the Hereafter, in either Paradise or Hell.

Signs of the Day of Judgement:

There are minor signs and major signs

The signs and portents of the Day of Resurrection are the things that will happen before the Resurrection takes place and will indicate that it is close at hand. They have been divided into lesser and greater signs. The lesser signs, for the most part, will occur a long time before the Resurrection begins. Some of them have happened and ended – although they may be repeated – and some of them have appeared and are ongoing, and some have not yet happened, but they will happen as the truthful one (the Prophet) (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) has told us.

The major signs are serious matters, the appearance of which will indicate that the Day of Resurrection is at hand and that there is only a short time until that great Day comes.

Minor Signs of the Day of Judgement:

The lesser signs of the Hour are many, and are mentioned in many saheeh ahadith. We will list them together without quoting the ahadith, because there is not enough room to do so here. We will provide references to trustworthy books on the topic for those who wish to know more about this matter and the evidence for these signs. These include al-Qiyamah al-Sughra by Shaykh ‘Umar Sulaymaan al-Ashqar [this book is available in English translation under the title The Minor Resurrection, published by International Islamic Publishing House, Riyadh, Saudi Arabia] and Ashraat al-Saa’ah by Shaykh Yoosuf al-Waabil.

The lesser signs of the Hour include the following:

1. The sending of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him)

2. The death of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him).

3. The conquest of Jerusalem.

4. The plague of Amwaas (Emmaus), which is a city in Palestine.

5. Widespread wealth and lack of need for charity.

6. The appearance of fitan (tribulations). Among the tribulations that occurred in the early years of Islam were: the killing of ‘Uthman (may Allah be pleased with him), the battle of the camel and the battle of Siffeen, the emergence of the Khawarij, the battle of al-Harrah, and the opinion that the Qur’an is a creation.

7. The emergence of claimants to Prophethood, such as the liar Musaylimah and al-Aswad al-‘Anasi.

8. The appearance of fire in the Hijaz, which appeared in the middle of the 7th century AH, in 654 AH. This was a great fire, which the scholars who were alive at the time of its appearance and those who came after them described in great detail. Al-Nawawi said: There appeared in our time a fire in Madeenah, in the year six hundred and fifty-four. It was a very great fire on the eastern side of Madeenah, beyond the Harrah, and knowledge of it was widespread throughout Syria and all lands. Those of the people of Madeenah who were present told me about it.

9. Loss of trust. One of the manifestations of loss of trust is people’s affairs being entrusted to those who are not qualified or able for that.

10. The taking away of knowledge and the prevalence of ignorance; the taking away of knowledge will occur with the disappearance of the scholars.

11. The spread of zina (adultery, fornication)

12. The spread of riba (usury, interest)

13. The prevalence of musical instruments.

14. Widespread drinking of alcohol.

15. Shepherds competing in the construction of tall buildings.

16. A slave woman giving birth to her mistress, as is stated in al-Saheehayn. There are several views among the scholars as to what this means. The view favoured by Ibn Hajar is that there will be widespread disobedience among children, so that a child will treat his mother as a master treats his slave woman, with negligence and insults.

17. Widespread killing.

18. Widespread earthquakes.

19. Appearance of landslides, transformations and stones from heaven.

20. Appearance of women who are clothed yet naked.

21. Believer’s dreams coming true.

22. Widespread giving of false testimony and concealment of true testimony.

23. Large numbers of women.

24. The land of the Arabs becoming once again meadows and rivers.

25. The Euphrates will uncover a mountain of gold.

26. Wild animals and inanimate objects will speak to people.

27. The “Romans” will increase in number and fight the Muslims.

28. The conquest of Constantinople.

Major Signs of the Day of Judgement:

Muslim narrated that Hudhayfah ibn Aseed al-Ghifaari (may Allah be pleased with him) said: The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) came out to us when we were discussing. He said: “What are you discussing?” They said: “We are talking about the Hour.” He said: “It will never begin until you see ten signs before it.” He mentioned the smoke, the Dajjal (the anti-Christ), the Beast, the rising of the sun from its place of setting, the descent of ‘Eesa ibn Maryam (Jesus, son of Mary, peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), Ya’jooj and Ma’jooj (the Biblical Gog and Magog), and three landslides, one in the east, one in the west and one in the Arabian Peninsula, and the last of that is a fire which will emerge from Yemen and drive the people to their place of gathering.

There is no saheeh text which states the order in which these signs will occur, rather the order of some of them is to be understood from the context of the texts.

However, the order of some of the major portents is known, and in the case of others the order is not known. Among those whose order is known are the descent of ‘Eesa ibn Maryam (Jesus, son of Mary), the emergence of Ya’jooj and Ma’jooj (the biblical Gog and Magog), and the Dajjal (anti-Christ), for the Dajjal (anti-Christ) will be sent, then ‘Eesa ibn Maryam (Jesus, son of Mary), will come down and kill him, then Ya’jooj and Ma’jooj (the biblical Gog and Magog), will emerge.

Paradise and Hell:

The believers will go to paradise and the disbelievers to hell.

However, some people are exempt from being brought to judgement:

The mentally ill and the child:

The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “The pen is lifted from three (i.e., their deeds are not recorded): the sleeper until he awakes, the child until he grows up, and the insane until he regains his sanity or regains consciousness.” This was narrated by the authors of Sunan and classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in al-Irwa’, no. 297.

Others will be tested on the Day of Judgement to determine their fate:

The prophet (PBUH) said: “Four types of people will be tested on the day of judgement: a deaf man who cannot hear anything, a mad man, an old aged man and a man who died during fatrah (a period of time when no messenger was sent to people). The deaf man will say: “Oh Allah, Islam came while I cannot hear anything!”. The mad man will say: “Oh Allah, Islam came while the boys throw animals’ excrement on me!”. The old aged man will say: “Oh Allah, Islam came while I can understand nothing”. And the man who died during a fatrah (a time between prophets; they did not hear the message) will say: “Oh Allah, I witnessed no messenger from You”. Then Allah takes a promise from them to obey Him. Then He will command them to enter hell, and who enters it will find it peace and cool, and who disobeys will be dragged to hell”

Paradise:

With regard to Paradise, it is the abode of reward on the Day of Resurrection for those who believed and did righteous deeds. In it there are whatever delights people could desire. In it there is what no eye has seen, no ear has heard, nor has it ever entered the mind of man. Those who enter it will enjoy real pleasures in both a physical and a spiritual sense, and they will live there forever. It will never cease to exist and they will never leave, and their joy will never come to an end, and they will have nothing to disturb their joy. This is according to the definitive texts and the consensus of the scholars and believers. Allah says:

“The description of the Paradise which the Muttaqun (the pious) have been promised: Underneath it rivers flow, its provision is eternal and so is its shade; this is the end (final destination) of the Muttaqun (the pious), and the end (final destination) of the disbelievers is Fire. [al-Ra’d 13:35]

“Truly, the Muttaqun (the pious) will be amidst Gardens and water-springs (Paradise). (It will be said to them): ‘Enter therein (Paradise), in peace and security.’ And We shall remove from their breasts any deep feeling of bitterness (that they may have). (So they will be like) brothers facing each other on thrones. No sense of fatigue shall touch them, nor shall they (ever) be asked to leave it” [al-Hijr 15:45-47]

“This is a Reminder. And verily, for the Muttaqun (the pious) is a good final return (Paradise), —‘Adn (Eden) Paradise (everlasting Gardens), whose doors will be opened for them. Therein they will recline; therein they will call for fruits in abundance and drinks; And beside them will be Qasiraat-at-Tarf [chaste females (wives) restraining their glances (desiring none except their husbands)], (and) of equal ages. This it is what you (Al-Muttaqun — the pious) are promised for the Day of Reckoning! (It will be said to them)! Verily, this is Our provision which will never finish” [Saad 38:49-54]

“Friends on that Day will be foes one to another except Al-Muttaqun (the pious). (It will be said to the true believers of Islamic Monotheism): My worshippers! No fear shall be on you this Day, nor shall you grieve, (You) who believed in Our Ayat (proofs, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.) and were Muslims (i.e. who submit totally to Allah’s Will, and believe in the Oneness of Allah — Islamic Monotheism). Enter Paradise, you and your wives, in happiness. Trays of gold and cups will be passed round them; (there will be) therein all that inner-selves could desire, and all that eyes could delight in and you will abide therein forever. This is the Paradise which you have been made to inherit because of your deeds which you used to do (in the life of the world). Therein for you will be fruits in plenty, of which you will eat (as you desire)” [al-Zukhruf 43:67-73]

Hell:

“Truly, Hell is a place of ambush — A dwelling place for the Taaghoon (those who transgress the boundary limits set by Allah, like polytheists, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allah, hypocrites, sinners, criminals), They will abide therein for ages. Nothing cool shall they taste therein, nor any drink. Except boiling water, and dirty wound discharges — An exact recompense (according to their evil crimes). For verily, they used not to look for a reckoning. But they belied Our Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, and that which Our Prophet brought) completely. And all things We have recorded in a Book. So taste you (the results of your evil actions). No increase shall We give you, except in torment” [al-Naba’ 78:21-30]

“Surely, those who disbelieved in Our Ayat (proofs, evidences, verses, lessons, signs, revelations, etc.), We shall burn them in Fire. As often as their skins are roasted through, We shall change them for other skins that they may taste the punishment” [al-Nisa’ 4:56]

“This, because you took the Revelations of Allah (this Qur’aan) in mockery, and the life of the world deceived you. So this Day, they shall not be taken out from there (Hell), nor shall they be returned to the worldly life (so that they repent to Allah, and beg His Pardon for their sins)” [al-Jaathiyah 45:35]

Do You Believe the Christian Bible?

2009-05-26T14:48:00.003-04:00

I have a question too. I believe I read somewhere that the Quran "corrected" parts of the Christian Bible. Is there a link or something where I can read more about what parts Muslims believe were in need of correction?

Thanks in advance!

I hope that the following answers your questions (and 'Eesa means Jesus in Arabic):

"The Muslims are all obliged to believe in the Gospel (Injeel) that Allah revealed to His Prophet Jesus the Messiah (peace be upon him). The one who denies that is a kafir (disbeliever) according to scholarly consensus.

Allah says:

“And in their footsteps, We sent ‘Eesa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), confirming the Tawrat (Torah) that had come before him, and We gave him the Injeel (Gospel), in which was guidance and light and confirmation of the Tawrat (Torah) that had come before it, a guidance and an admonition for Al-Muttaqun (the pious)” [al-Maa’idah 5:46]

Our belief in the Gospel dictates that we should also believe that it exists and that it was revealed completely, and we believe that everything that he brought from Allah was true.

But there is nothing in Islam to tell us whether this Gospel was written and compiled at the time of ‘Eesa (peace be upon him) or who wrote it, or who preserved it and disseminated it, or whether the Messiah taught it to the people orally or whether the disciples transmitted it and who believed in it, or whether some of it was written down and some was not. These are questions that we cannot answer for certain nowadays, rather some researchers deny that there was even a true Gospel that was compiled in the form of a book; rather it was just words that were transmitted."

Basically, we believe that there was a Gospel, and that it was the word of God, however, we believe that through translation, transmission, and on purpose, several parts lost their meanings, or several parts were omitted or added, so the Bible that exists today is not the one that existed in the time of Jesus (peace be upon him).

For instance, we believe that pig and alcohol were also forbidden for Christians, but the people allowed it for themselves and changed the text.

Therefore, any verse from the bible, as a Muslim, I cannot tell you with certainty that it is true, nor can I say it is untrue because we do not know which parts of the Bible contain some truths from the time of Jesus and which parts were made up. We also believe the same thing with the Torah (that certain parts have changed from the time of Moses, peace be upon him).

Why Do You Cover Your Head and/or Face?

2009-05-26T14:45:00.002-04:00

Is deciding to cover your face/head just a matter of personal preference, or is there some level of liberal/conservative groups within Islam that one would get guidance from on that issue?

All scholars agree that hijab (covering the hair) is required and proof of that is this verse:

“And tell the believing women to lower their gaze (from looking at forbidden things), and protect their private parts (from illegal sexual acts) and not to show off their adornment except only that which is apparent (like both eyes for necessity to see the way, or outer palms of hands or one eye or dress like veil, gloves, headcover, apron), and to draw their veils all over Juyubihinna (i.e. the their bodies, faces, necks and bosoms) and not to reveal their adornment except to their husbands, or their fathers, or their husband’s fathers, or their sons, or their husband’s sons, or their brothers or their brother’s sons, or their sister’s sons, or their (Muslim) women (i.e. their sisters in Islam), or the (female) slaves whom their right hands possess, or old male servants who lack vigour, or small children who have no sense of feminine sex. And let them not stamp their feet so as to reveal what they hide of their adornment. And all of you beg Allah to forgive you all, O believers, that you may be successful” [al-Noor 24:31]

Regarding niqaab (covering the face) there is a difference of opinion whether it is required or not. In Islam, if there is a difference of opinion between scholars on a certain issue, then you choose the opinion that you feel is right.

Would You Come Over For Dinner?

2009-05-26T14:40:00.003-04:00

Let us say that you and your family have just moved into my neighborhood and I would like to invite you over for dinner. Would you come? If not, are there any considerations I could offer that would change your mind?

Yeah, of course I would :) The only reason I haven't been visiting my neighbours in the past 2 years is because I lived in an apartment building and it's hard to really meet people as opposed to when you live in a house... but two considerations I would suggest: no alcohol and have a vegetarian option because Muslims eat their meat slaughtered in a certain way (it's called halal) some grocery stores have it, some don't, but for just everyone's peace of mind, have a vegetarian meal, and do not use in the ingredients any pig-derivatives (lard, gelatin, etc.).

Let us say that I have the most delicious recipe for pot roast ever, but I can't find a single halal grocery! Could I use kosher beef?

A lot of Muslims do eat kosher food, but some don't... there is a difference in scholarly opinion there, but as long as you tell everyone what the ingredients are, then they can pick and choose...

The Six Pillars of Faith: Part VI - Belief in Divine Will and Decree (Al-Qada' wal-Qadar)

2009-05-22T22:18:00.005-04:00

Belief in al-Qada’ wa’l-Qadar (Divine will and decree) is one of the pillars of faith. The Muslim’s faith is not complete unless he knows that whatever befalls him could not have missed him, and whatever misses him could not have befallen him. Everything is subject to the will and decree of Allah, as Allah says:

“Verily, We have created all things with Qadar (Divine Preordainments of all things before their creation as written in the Book of Decrees Al Lawh Al Mahfooz). [al-Qamar 54:49]

Qadar means that Allah has decreed everything that happens in the universe according to His prior knowledge and the dictates of His wisdom.

Belief in al-Qadar includes four things:

1 – The belief that Allah knows all things, in general and in detail, from eternity to eternity, whether that has to do with His actions or the actions of His slaves.

2 – The belief that Allah has written that in al-Lawh al-Mahfooz (the Book of Decrees).

Concerning these two matters Allah says:

“Know you not that Allah knows all that is in the heaven and on the earth? Verily, it is (all) in the Book (Al‑Lawh Al‑Mahfooz). Verily, that is easy for Allah” [al-Hajj 22:70]

In Saheeh Muslim (2653) it is narrated that ‘Abd-Allah ibn ‘Amr ibn al-‘Aas (may Allah be pleased with him) said: I heard the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) say: “Allah wrote down the decrees of creation fifty thousand years before He created the heavens and the earth.”

And the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “The first thing that Allah created was the Pen, and He said to it, ‘Write!’ It said, ‘O Lord, what should I write?’ He said: ‘Write down the decrees of all things until the Hour begins.” [Narrated by Abu Dawud, 4700]

3 – The belief that whatever happens only happens by the will of Allah – whether that has to do with His actions or the actions of created beings.

Allah says concerning His actions:

“And your Lord creates whatsoever He wills and chooses” [al-Qasas 28:68]

“and Allaah does what He wills” [Ibrahim 14:27]

“He it is Who shapes you in the wombs as He wills” [Aal ‘Imran 3:6]

And He says concerning the actions of created beings:

“Had Allah willed, indeed He would have given them power over you, and they would have fought you” [al-Nisa’ 4:90]

“If your Lord had so willed, they would not have done it” [al-An’aam 6:112]

All events, actions and happenings occur only by the will of Allah. Whatever Allah wills happens, and whatever He does not will does not happen.

4 – The belief that all things that happen are created by Allah in their essence, their attributes and their movements.

Allah says:

“Allah is the Creator of all things, and He is the Wakeel (Trustee, Disposer of affairs, Guardian) over all things” [al-Zumar 39:62]

“He has created everything, and has measured it exactly according to its due measurements” [al-Furqan 25:2]

And Allah tells us that the Prophet of Allah Ibrahim [Abraham] (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said to his people:

“While Allah has created you and what you make” [al-Saffat 38:96]

If a person believes in all these things then he believes correctly in the divine will and decree (al-qadar).

Belief in al-qadar as we have described it above does not contradict the idea that a person has free will with regard to actions in which he has free choice. He can choose whether to or not to do things that he is able to do of acts of worship or sinful actions.

Allah says concerning man's will:

“That is (without doubt) the True Day. So, whosoever wills, let him seek a place with (or a way to) His Lord (by obeying Him in this worldly life)!” [al-Naba’ 78:39]

“so go to your tilth, when or how you will” [al-Baqarah 2:223]

And He says concerning man’s ability:

“So keep your duty to Allah and fear Him as much as you can” [al-Taghabun 64:16]

“Allah burdens not a person beyond his scope. He gets reward for that (good) which he has earned, and he is punished for that (evil) which he has earned” [al-Baqarah 2:286]

These verses confirm that man has a will and the ability to do what he wants and not to do what he does not want.

With regard to real life, everyone knows that he has a will and the ability to do what he wants and not to do what he does not want. And he can distinguish between the things that happen when he wants them to, such as walking, and those that happen without him wanting them to, such as shivering. But the will and ability of man are subject to the will and decree of Allah, because Allah says:

“To whomsoever among you who wills to walk straight.

And you cannot will unless (it be) that Allah wills; the Lord of the ‘Alameen (mankind, jinn and all that exists)” [al-Takweer 81:28-29]

But the entire universe is the dominion of Allah, and nothing can happen in His dominion without His knowledge and will.

The Six Pillars of Faith: Part V - Belief in the Last Day

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What is meant by belief in the Last Day (i.e. the Day of Judgment) is:

Firmly believing that everything that Allah has told us about in His Book and that His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) has told us about what will happen after death, will indeed happen and come to pass.

That includes believing in the signs of the Hour which will happen before the Last Day;

in death and things that accompany it when a person is on his deathbed;
what comes after death, namely the trial of the grave and torment or blessing therein;
the Trumpet-blast and resurrection;
the standing and terrors of the Day of Resurrection;
the details of the gathering and reckoning;
Paradise and its delights, the greatest of which will be looking upon the Face of Allah;
Hell and its torments, the most severe of which will be their being veiled from seeing their Lord.

And belief in the Last Day includes acting in accordance with what is implied by these beliefs.

If this belief is firmly established in a person’s heart, it will bear great fruits, including the following:

1 – The desire to do acts of obedience and worship, and to strive hard in doing so, in the hope of attaining the rewards of that Day.

2 – Fear of committing sin or approving of it, for fear of the punishment of that Day.

3 – The believer will be consoled for whatever he misses out on of worldly luxuries and delights, because of his hope for the delights and rewards of the Hereafter.

The Six Pillars of Faith: Part IV - Belief in the Messengers

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Belief in the Messengers implies four things:

1 – Firm belief that Allah sent to every nation a Messenger from amongst them, to call them to worship Allah alone and to disbelieve in everything that is worshipped instead of Him, and that they (the Messengers) were all truthful, speakers of the truth, righteous, wise, pious and honest, and that they conveyed everything with which Allah sent them, concealing and altering nothing. They did not add even one letter from themselves or omit anything.

“Are the Messengers charged with anything but to convey clearly the Message?” [al-Nahl 16:35]

Their message was the same, from the first to the last of them, based on the principle of Tawheed, i.e., that all kinds of worship should be devoted to Allah alone, beliefs, words and deeds alike, and that everything that is worshipped instead of Allah is to be rejected. The evidence for that is the verses:

“And We did not send any Messenger before you (O Muhammad) but We revealed to him (saying): Laa ilaaha illa Ana [none has the right to be worshipped but I (Allah)], so worship Me (Alone and none else)”[al-Anbiya’ 21:25]

“And ask (O Muhammad) those of Our Messengers whom We sent before you: ‘Did We ever appoint aalihah (gods) to be worshipped besides the Most Gracious (Allah)?’”[al-Zukhruf 43:45]

And there are very many similar aayahs.

With regard to the obligatory duties by which Allah is to be worshipped and the minor details of legislation, prayers and fasts may have been enjoined on some nations but not on others, and some things may have been forbidden to some and permitted to others, as a test from Allah.

“Who has created death and life that He may test you which of you is best in deed”
[al-Mulk 67:2]

The evidence for that is the verses:

“To each among you, We have prescribed a law and a clear way” [al-Maa’idah 5:48]

Ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allah be pleased with him) said “(This means) a way and a path.” Mujaahid, ‘Ikrimah and many of the mufassireen said likewise.

In Saheeh al-Bukhaari (3443) and Saheeh Muslim (2365) it is narrated that Abu Hurayrah said: “The Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: ‘The Prophets are like brothers from one father, their mothers are different but their religion is one’” – i.e., the Prophets are united on the principle of Tawheed, the message with which Allah sent every Messenger whom He sent, and which He included in every Book that He revealed, but their laws differed as to command and prohibitions, what was permitted and what was forbidden.

Whoever disbelieves in the message of one of them has disbelieved in all of them, as Allah says:

“The people of Nuh (Noah) belied the Messengers” [al-Shu’ara’ 26:105]

Allah described them as disbelieving in all of the Messengers even though there was no Messenger other than Nuh at the time when they disbelieved.

2 – Belief in those Messengers whose names we know, such as Muhammad, Ibraheem, Musa, ‘Eesa and Nuh (may blessings and peace be upon them all). With regard to those who have been mentioned in general terms but whose names we do not know, we are obliged to believe in them in general terms, as Allah says:

“The Messenger (Muhammad) believes in what has been sent down to him from his Lord, and (so do) the believers. Each one believes in Allah, His Angels, His Books, and His Messengers. (They say,) ‘We make no distinction between one another of His Messengers’” [al-Baqarah 2:285]

“And, indeed We have sent Messengers before you (O Muhammad), of some of them We have related to you their story. And of some We have not related to you their story” [Ghaafir 40:78]

And we believe that the Final Messenger was our Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), and there is no Prophet after him, as Allah says:

“Muhammad is not the father of any of your men, but he is the Messenger of Allah and the last (end) of the Prophets. And Allah is Ever All-Aware of everything” [al-Ahzaab 33:40]

In al-Bukhari (4416) and Muslim (2404) it is narrated from Sa’d ibn Abi Waqqas (may Allah be pleased with him) that the Messenger of Allah (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) went out to Tabuk, and appointed ‘Ali as his deputy (in Madeenah). ‘Ali said, “Are you leaving me in charge of the children and women?” The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said, “Does it not please you that you are to me like Harun to Musa? But there will be no Prophet after me.”

Allah favoured him and singled him out for great blessings which were given to no other Prophet. For example:

1- Allah sent him to all of the two races of mankind and jinn, whereas each Prophet who came before him was sent only to his own people.

2- Allah supported him against his enemies by striking fear into the hearts of all his enemies within the radius of one month’s travel.

3- The earth was made a place of prayer and a means of purification for him.

4- War booty was made permissible for him, where it had not been permitted to any Prophet before him.

5- He will be granted the position of greater intercession.

And there are many other special favours that have been bestowed upon him (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him).

3 – Believing in the sound reports that have been narrated from the Messengers.

4 – Following the laws of the Messenger who has been sent to us, namely the Final Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), who was sent to all of mankind. Allah says:

“But no, by your Lord, they can have no Faith, until they make you (O Muhammad) judge in all disputes between them, and find in themselves no resistance against your decisions, and accept (them) with full submission”[al-Nisa’ 4:65]

We should note that belief in the Messengers bears great fruit, such as:

1- Knowledge of the mercy of Allah towards His slaves and His care for them, as He sent the Messengers to guide them to the path of Allah and to show them how to worship Allah, for human reason alone cannot come to know that.

2- Giving thanks to Him for this great blessing.

3- Loving and venerating the Messengers (blessing and peace be upon them), and praising them in the manner that befits them, because they are the Messengers of Allaah, and because they worshipped Him and conveyed His Message, and were sincere towards His slaves.

The Six Pillars of Faith: Part III - Belief in the Holy Books

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Belief in the Books implies four things:

1 – Firm belief that all of them were revealed from Allah, and that Allah spoke them in a real sense. Some of them were heard from Him from behind a veil, without there being any intermediary from among the angels. Some were conveyed by an angelic Messenger to a human Messenger. Some were written by Allah’s own Hand, as He says:

“It is not given to any human being that Allah should speak to him unless (it be) by Revelation, or from behind a veil, or (that) He sends a Messenger to reveal what He wills by His Leave. Verily, He is Most High, Most Wise”[al-Shoora 42:51]

“and to Musa (Moses) Allah spoke directly” [al-Nisa’ 4:164]

And Allah said concerning the Tawrat (Torah):

“And We wrote for him on the Tablets the lesson to be drawn from all things and the explanation for all things” [al-A’raaf 7:145]

2 – The Books that Allah has mentioned by name, we must believe in by name. These are the Books which Allah has named in the Qur’an, i.e., the Qur’an, the Tawrat (Torah), the Injeel (Gospel), the Zaboor (Psalms), and the Scriptures of Ibraheem and Musa.

Those which Allah has mentioned in general terms, we must believe in them in general terms, so we say concerning them what Allah and His Messenger have commanded us to say:

“…say: “I believe in whatsoever Allah has sent down of the Book [all the holy Books…]” [al-Shoora 42:15]

3 – Believing whatever is true of what they say, such as what is said in the Qur’an, and whatever has not been altered or distorted in the previous Books.

4 – Believing that Allah revealed the Qur’an as a witness over these Books and to confirm them, as Allah says:

“And We have sent down to you (O Muhammad) the Book (this Qur’an) in truth, confirming the Scripture that came before it and Muhaymin (trustworthy in highness and a witness) over it (old Scriptures)”[al-Maa'idah 5:48]

The mufassireen said that Muhaymin means trustworthy and a witness over the Books that came before it, and confirming them, i.e., confirming whatever is true in them and rejecting whatever alterations, distortions and changes have occurred in them, and ruling that the previous rulings have been abrogated – i.e., they are no longer applicable – and that new rulings and laws have been promulgated. Hence all those who were following previous books and who have not turned on their heels should submit to it, as Allah says:

“And when it is recited to them, they say: We believe in it. Verily, it is the truth from our Lord. Indeed even before it we have been from those who submit themselves to Allah in Islam as Muslims” [al-Qasas 28:52-53]

It is obligatory for all the ummah (nation) to follow the Qur’an both outwardly and inwardly, and to adhere to it, and give it its due, as Allah says:

“And this is a blessed Book (the Qur’an) which We have sent down, so follow it and fear Allah”[al-An’am 6:155]

What is meant by adhering to the Qur’an and giving it its due is: regarding what it permits as permitted, regarding what it forbids as forbidden, obeying its commands, avoiding that which it prohibits, paying heed to its lessons, learning from its stories, understanding its clear and unambiguous texts, referring the exact meaning of its ambiguous texts to Allah, not overstepping its limits and defending it, whilst memorizing it, reciting it in a proper manner, pondering the meanings of its verses, reciting it in prayer night and day, being sincere towards it in all senses, and calling others to do likewise with understanding.

This belief will bear great fruit for a person, the most important of which is:

1- Knowledge of Allah’s care for His slaves, for He has revealed to each people a Book by which they may be guided.

2- Knowledge of the wisdom of Allah in the laws which He has set out for each people, laws which are suited to their circumstances as Allah says: “To each among you, We have prescribed a law and a clear way” [al-Ma’idah 5:48].

3- Fulfilling the duty of giving thanks to Allah for this great blessing.

4- The importance of paying attention to the Qur’an, by reading it, pondering its meanings, understanding its meanings and acting accordingly.

The Six Pillars of Faith: Part II - Belief in the Noble Angels

2009-05-22T21:49:00.001-04:00

Belief in the Noble Angels:

The angels form an unseen world; they were created by Allah from light and they obey the commands of Allah:

“who disobey not, (from executing) the Commands they receive from Allah, but do that which they are commanded” [al-Tahreem 66:6]

Belief in the angels implies four essential things:

1 – Affirming that they exist and that they are part of the creation of Allah, subject to His Lordship and subjugated to Him.

“…honoured slaves.

They speak not until He has spoken, and they act on His Command” [al-Anbiya’ 21:26-27]

“who disobey not, (from executing) the Commands they receive from Allah, but do that which they are commanded” [al-Tahreem 66:6]

“And those who are near Him (i.e. the angels) are not too proud to worship Him, nor are they weary (of His worship).

They (i.e. the angels) glorify His Praises night and day, (and) they never slacken (to do so)” [al-Anbiya’ 21:19-20]

2 – Belief in the names of those whose name we know, such as Jibreel, Mika’eel, Israfeel, Malik, Radwan and others – peace be upon them.

3 – Belief in the attributes of those whose attributes we know, as we know the description of Jibreel from the Sunnah, and that he has six hundred wings which filled the horizon or the sky.

4 – Belief in the actions which we know some of them do, so Jibreel (peace be upon him) was entrusted with that which revives the heart, namely the Revelation. Israfeel is entrusted with sounding the Trumpet-blast (to herald the onset of the Day of Resurrection); Mika’eel is entrusted with the rain; Malik is entrusted with Hell, and so on.

One of the most important things that we must believe in is that every person has two angels with him who record his deeds. Allah says:

“(Remember) that the two receivers (recording angels) receive (each human being), one sitting on the right and one on the left (to note his or her actions)

Not a word does he (or she) utter but there is a watcher by him ready (to record it)”[Qaaf 50:17-18]

i.e., a watcher from among these angels who is present. So beware lest these two angels record anything from you that will be bad for you on the Day of Resurrection, for everything that you say will be recorded against you, and when the Day of Resurrection comes, each person’s book of deeds will be brought out,

“…and on the Day of Resurrection, We shall bring out for him a book which he will find wide open.

(It will be said to him): ‘Read your book. You yourself are sufficient as a reckoner against you this Day.’” [al-Isra’ 17:13-14].

The Six Pillars of Faith: Part I - Belief in Allah

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Belief in Allah:

Faith in Allah means believing firmly in His existence, Lordship and Divinity, and in His names and attributes.

Faith in Allah implies four things, and whomever believes in them is a true believer.

1 – Belief in the existence of Allah.

The existence of Allah is something indicated by reason and by man's innate nature, let alone the large amount of shar’i (Islamic) evidence to that effect.

(i) The evidence of man’s innate nature that Allah exists: every man has been created with an innate belief in his Creator without having to first think about it or be taught, and no one deviates from this innate nature except the one who has been exposed to misguiding influences. Hence the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “There is no child who is not born in a state of fitrah (the natural inclination of man), but his parents make him a Jew, a Christian or a Magian.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1358; Muslim, 2658.

(ii) The evidence of reason that Allah exists: all these created things, past, present and future, must have a Creator Who brought them into existence, because it is not possible for them to have created themselves or to have come into existence by accident.

It is impossible for them to have come into existence by themselves because a thing cannot create itself: before it existed it was non-existent, so how could it be a creator?! And it is impossible for them to have come into existence by accident, because everything that happens must have a cause. Moreover, this creation is done in a wondrous and precise manner, and every created being is in harmony with the rest of creation, and there is a strong connection between cause and effect. All of this makes it impossible that this universe could have come into being accidentally, because what happens accidentally does not happen in a precise and perfect manner, so how could it remain so precisely balanced?

If it is not possible for these things to have created themselves or to have come into existence by accident, then there must be One Who brought them into existence, namely Allah the Lord of the Worlds.

Allah has mentioned this rational evidence and definitive proof in Soorat al-Toor, where He says:

“Were they created by nothing? Or were they themselves the creators?” [al-Toor 52:35]

They were not created without a Creator, and they did not create themselves, so their Creator must be Allah, may He be blessed and exalted. Hence when Jubayr ibn Mut’im heard the Messenger of Allah (Peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) reciting Soorat al-Toor, and he reached these verses:

“Were they created by nothing? Or were they themselves the creators?

Or did they create the heavens and the earth? Nay, but they have no firm Belief.

Or are with them the treasures of your Lord? Or are they the tyrants with the authority to do as they like?” [al-Toor 52:35-37]

Jabeer was a mushrik at that time, and said: “My heart almost soared, and that was the first moment that faith entered my heart.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari in several places.

We will give you an example that will help to explain that:

If a person were to tell you of a beautiful palace, surrounded by gardens among which rivers flowed, filled with furniture and couches, decorated with all kinds of luxuries and adornments, and told you that this palace and all that it contains created itself, or came into existence like that by accident without anyone building it, you would hasten to deny that and regard it as a lie, and you would regard this as foolish speech. So after that can it be possible that this wondrous, vast and well balanced universe with its earth, heavens and stars, could have created itself or come into being by accident with no Creator?!

This rational evidence was understood by a Bedouin who lived in the desert and who expressed it most eloquently, when he was asked, “How do you know your Lord?” He said: “If you see the camel dung you know that a camel has passed this way, and if you see a footstep you know that a person has passed this way, so the heaven with its starts and the earth with its mountain passes and the oceans with their high waves all point to the existence of the All-Hearing, All-Seeing.”

2 – Belief in the Lordship of Allah.

i.e., belief that He alone is the Lord, with no partner or helper.

The Lord (Rabb) is the One Who has the power of creation, dominion and control. There is no Creator except Allah, no Sovereign except Allah, no controller of affairs except Allah. Allah says:

“Surely, His is the creation and commandment” [al-A’raaf 7:54]

“Say (O Muhammad): ‘Who provides for you from the sky and the earth? Or who owns hearing and sight? And who brings out the living from the dead and brings out the dead from the living? And who disposes the affairs?’ They will say: ‘Allah.’ Say: ‘Will you not then be afraid of Allah’s punishment (for setting up rivals in worship with Allah)?’” [Yunus 10:31]

“He manages and regulates (every) affair from the heavens to the earth; then it (affair) will go up to Him” [al-Sajdah 32:5]

“Such is Allah, your Lord; His is the kingdom. And those, whom you invoke or call upon instead of Him, own not even a Qitmeer (the thin membrane over the date stone)” [Faatir 35:13]

Think about what Allah says in Soorat al-Faatihah:

“The Only Owner (and the Only Ruling Judge) of the Day of Recompense (i.e. the Day of Resurrection) [Maaliki Yaawm il-deen]”

[al-Faatihah 1:4]

And there is an alternative reading, Maliki yawm il-deen. If we combine the two readings we will see a wondrous meaning, for the Malik (King) has more power and authority than the Maalik (Owner), but a king may sometimes be a king in name only, with no control over affairs, in which case he is a king but not an owner. But as Allah is both Malik and Maalik, then this is confirmation both of His Sovereignty and His control over all affairs.

3 – Belief in His Divinity

i.e., that He is the One True God, with no partner or associate.

Al-Ilaah (God) means the One Who is loved, i.e., the One Who is worshiped out of love and veneration. This is what is meant by Laa ilaaha ill-Allah (there is no god but Allah), i.e., there is none who is rightfully worshipped except Allah. Allah says:

“And your Ilaah (God) is One Ilaah (God — Allah), Laa Ilaaha illa Huwa (there is none who has the right to be worshipped but He), the Most Gracious, the Most Merciful” [al-Baqarah 2:163]

“Allah bears witness that Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He), and the angels, and those having knowledge (also give this witness); (He always) maintains His creation in justice. Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshipped but He), the All‑Mighty, the All-Wise” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:18]

Everything that is taken as a god alongside Allah and worshipped instead of Him, its divinity is false. Allah says:

“That is because Allah He is the Truth (the only True God of all that exists, Who has no partners or rivals with Him), and what they (the polytheists) invoke besides Him, it is Baatil (falsehood). And verily, Allah He is the Most High, the Most Great” [al-Hajj 22:62]

Calling them gods does not give them the rights of divinity. Allah says:

“They are but names which you have named you and your fathers for which Allah has sent down no authority” [al-Najm 53:23]

Allah tells us that Yusuf (peace be upon him) said to the prison guard:

“Are many different lords (gods) better or Allah, the One, the Irresistible?

You do not worship besides Him but only names which you have named (forged) — you and your fathers — for which Allah has sent down no authority” [Yusuf 12:39-40]

No one deserves to be worshipped or singled out for worship except Allah, and no one has any share in this right with Him, no angel who is close to Him nor any Prophet who was sent. Hence the call of all the Messengers, from the first to the last of them, was the call to say Laa ilaaha ill-Allah. Allah says:

“And verily, We have sent among every Ummah (community, nation) a Messenger (proclaiming): “Worship Allah (Alone), and avoid (or keep away from) Taaghoot (all false deities, i.e. do not worship Taaghoot besides Allah)” [al-Nahl 16:36]

But the mushrikeen (polytheists) rejected that and took other gods instead of Allah, which they worshipped alongside Allah, seeking their support and help.

4 – Belief in His Names and Attributes.

i.e., affirming the names and attributes which Allah has affirmed for Himself in His Book and in the Sunnah (tradition) of His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) in a manner that befits Him, without distorting or denying the meanings, or asking how, or likening Him to His creation. Allah says:

“And (all) the Most Beautiful Names belong to Allah, so call on Him by them, and leave the company of those who belie or deny (or utter impious speech against) His Names. They will be requited for what they used to do” [al-A’raaf 7:180]

This verse indicates that the Most Beautiful names belong to Allah.

And Allah says:

“His is the highest description (i.e. none has the right to be worshipped but He, and there is nothing comparable unto Him) in the heavens and in the earth. And He is the All‑Mighty, the All‑Wise” [al-Room 30:27]

This verse indicates that the attributes of perfection belong to Allah, because “the highest description” is the attribute of perfection. These two verses prove that the most beautiful Names and the most sublime attributes belong to Allah in general terms. With regard to the details of that, there is a great deal of information in the Qur’aan and Sunnah (tradition of the Prophet).

This field of knowledge, i.e., the names and attributes of Allah, is one of the fields in which there has been a great deal of dispute and division among the ummah (nation), and the ummah (nation) has split into various factions regarding the names and attributes of Allah.

Our attitude towards these differences is that enjoined by Allah when He said:

“(And) if you differ in anything amongst yourselves, refer it to Allah and His Messenger, if you believe in Allah and in the Last Day” [al-Nisa’ 4:59]

We refer this dispute to the Book of Allah and the Sunnah (tradition) of His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), seeking guidance therein from the way in which the righteous followers of the Prophet understood these verses and ahaadeeth (traditions of the Prophet), for they were the most knowledgeable of this ummah (nation) as to what Allah and His Messenger meant.

‘Abd-Allaah ibn Mas’ood spoke the truth when he described the companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) by saying: “Whoever wants to follow a path, let him follow the path of one who has died, for there is no guarantee that the one who is still alive will not be tempted. Those are the companions of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), the most pure in heart of this ummah (nation) and the most deep in knowledge, the least sophisticated and complicated, people whom Allah chose to establish His religion and accompany His Prophet. So acknowledge their rights and adhere to their guidance, for they are following true guidance.”

Everyone who deviates from the path of the companions of the Prophet in this matter is erring and going astray, and is following a path other than that of the believers, so he deserves the warning issued in the verse where Allah says:

“And whoever contradicts and opposes the Messenger (Muhammad) after the right path has been shown clearly to him, and follows other than the believers’ way, We shall keep him in the path he has chosen, and burn him in Hell — what an evil destination!” [al-Nisa’ 4:115]

Allah has stipulated that in order to be correctly guided, we must believe what the companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) believed, as He says:

“So if they believe in the like of that which you believe then they are rightly guided” [al-Baqarah 2:137]

Based on this, then what we must do in this case is to affirm what Allah has affirmed for Himself or what His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) has affirmed of the divine names and attributes; we should take the texts of the Qur’an and Sunnah (tradition of the Prophet) at face value, and believe in them as the companions of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) did, as they are the best and most knowledgeable of this nation (may Allah be pleased with them).

But it should be noted that there are four things to be avoided, whoever falls into one of them has not attained true belief in the names and attributes of Allah as he is obliged to do. Belief in the names and attributes of Allah is not correct unless one avoids these four things, which are:

tahreef (distortion),
ta’teel (denial),
tamtheel (likening Allaah to His creation) and
takyeef (asking or discussing how).

Hence we say that what is meant by belief in the names and attributes of Allah is “affirming the names and attributes which Allah has affirmed for Himself in His Book and in the Sunnah (tradition) of His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) in a manner that befits Him, without distorting or denying the meanings, or asking how, or likening Him to His creation.”

There follows a brief explanation of these four things that are to be avoided:

(i) Tahreef (distorting)

What is meant is changing the meaning of the texts of the Qur’an and Sunnah from their true meaning, which means affirming that the most beautiful names and sublime attributes belong to Allah, to another meaning which was not intended by Allah or His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him).

For example:

They distort the meaning of the Hand of Allah which is mentioned in many texts and say that it refers to His blessing or power.

(ii) Ta’teel (denying)

What is meant is denying the beautiful names and sublime attributes and saying that Allah does not possess them or some of them.

Everyone who denies one of the names or attributes of Allah that are proven in the Qur’an or Sunnah (tradition of the Prophet) does not truly believe in the names and attributes of Allah.

(iii) Tamtheel (likening Allaah to His creation)

This means likening the attribute of Allah to the attribute of a human being, such as saying that Allah’s Hand is like a man’s hand, or that Allah hears as a man hears, or that Allah rose over the Throne like a man sitting on a chair… and so on. Undoubtedly likening the attributes of Allah to the attributes of His creation is wrong and false. Allah says:

“There is nothing like Him, and He is the All‑Hearer, the All‑Seer” [al-Shoora 42:11]

(iv) Takyeef (discussing how)

This means discussing how the attributes of Allah are, whereby a person tries to imagine or put into words how the attributes of Allah are.

This is definitely invalid, and man cannot know this. Allah says:

“but they will never compass anything of His Knowledge” [Ta-Ha 20:110]

Whoever attains these four things believes truly in Allah.

The Five Pillars Of Islam: Part V - Pilgrimage (Hajj)

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The fifth pillar: Hajj (pilgrimage)

Allah has given the Muslims a Qiblah (direction of prayer) which they face when they pray (salah), wherever they may be. This qiblah (direction of prayer) is the Ancient House (the Ka’bah) in Makkah al-Mukarramah:

“so turn your face in the direction of Al-Masjid Al-Haraam (at Makkah). And wheresoever you people are, turn your faces (in prayer) in that direction [al-Baqarah 2:144]

This does NOT mean that Muslims worship the Ka'bah; rather, since the Muslims are scattered all over the world it is a means of uniting them during prayer. Islam calls people to be united and get to know one another, just as it calls them to co-operate in righteousness and piety, to recommend one another to the truth, to call people to Allah and to venerate the rituals of Allah – hence Allah has made it obligatory for every sane, adult Muslim who has the means, to visit His Ancient House, to circumambulate it and to perform all the rituals of Hajj as explained by Allah and His Messenger. Allah says:

“And Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah) to the House (Ka‘bah) is a duty that mankind owes to Allah, those who can afford the expenses (for one’s conveyance, provision and residence); and whoever disbelieves [i.e. denies Hajj (pilgrimage to Makkah), then he is a disbeliever of Allah], then Allah stands not in need of any of the ‘Alameen (mankind, and all that exists)” [Aal Imraan 3:97]

Hajj is an occasion on which the unity of the Muslims, their strength and pride, are made manifest. For the Lord is One, the Book is one, the Messenger is one, the ummah (nation) is one, their worship is one and their clothing is one.

Hajj has its own etiquette and conditions which the Muslims must observe, such as restraining their tongues, hearing and sight from all that Allah has forbidden, being sincere in their intentions, using money from good sources (for Hajj), fostering the best attitude, and avoiding everything that could invalidate the Hajj, such as sexual relations, sin or arguing unjustly, as Allah says:

“The Hajj (pilgrimage) is (in) the well-known (lunar year) months (i.e. the 10th month, the 11th month and the first ten days of the 12th month of the Islamic calendar, i.e. two months and ten days). So whosoever intends to perform Hajj therein (by assuming Ihraam), then he should not have sexual relations (with his wife), nor commit sin, nor dispute unjustly during the Hajj. And whatever good you do, (be sure) Allah knows it. And take a provision (with you) for the journey, but the best provision is At-Taqwa (piety, righteousness). So fear Me, O men of understanding!”[al-Baqarah 3:197]

If the Muslim does Hajj correctly, in the manner prescribed and sincerely for the sake of Allah, it will be an expiation for his sins.

The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Whoever does Hajj for the sake of Allah, and does not have sexual relations or commit sins, will come back like the day his mother bore him [i.e. sinless].” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, no. 15210)

The Five Pillars Of Islam: Part IV - Fasting the Month of Ramadan

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The fourth pillar: sawm (fasting) in Ramadan

Fasting means abstaining from things which break the fast, such as food, drink and intercourse, from sunrise until sunset, with the intention of fasting.

The relationship of patience to faith is like that of the head to the body. Allah has enjoined upon this ummah (nation) fasting for one month of the year, in order to draw closer to Allah, to avoid that which Allah has forbidden, to get used to being patient, to bring the nafs (self) under control, to compete in generosity and to demonstrate co-operation and mutual compassion. Allah says:

“O you who believe! Observing As-Sawm (the fasting) is prescribed for you as it was prescribed for those before you, that you may become Al-Muttaqoon (the pious)” [al-Baqarah 2:183]

The month of Ramadan is a great month, in which Allah revealed the Qur’an. The reward for good deeds, acts of charity and acts of worship are multiplied in this month. In it is Laylat al-Qadr, which is better than a thousand months. The gates of heaven are opened and the gates of Hell are shut, and the shayateen (devils) are tied up.

Allah has made fasting the month of Ramadan obligatory upon every sane, adult Muslim, male and female alike, as He says:

“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 i.e. is present at his home), he must observe Sawm (fasts) that month, and whoever is ill or on a journey, the same number [of days which one did not observe Sawm (fasts) 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 [i.e. to say Takbeer (Allaahu Akbar: Allaah is the Most Great)] for having guided you so that you may be grateful to Him” [al-Baqarah 2:185]

There is a great reward with Allah for fasting. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Every action of the son of Adam is multiplied, each good deed receiving a tenfold to seven hundredfold reward. Allah said, ‘Except for fasting, for it is done for Me and I will give a reward for it, for he gives up his desire and food for My sake.’” (Narrated by Muslim, al-Siyaam)

The Five Pillars Of Islam: Part III - Charity (Zakah)

2009-05-22T21:44:00.003-04:00

The third pillar: zakah (poor due, charity tax)

Just as Allah has created people with different colours, attitudes and levels of knowledge, so too their deeds and provision vary. He has made some of them rich and some poor, to test the rich as to whether they show gratitude, and to test the poor as to whether they are patient. Because the believers are a brotherhood, and brotherhood is based on compassion, kindness, love and mercy, Allah has enjoined upon the Muslims zakah (charity) which is taken from the rich and given to the poor. Allah says:

“Take Sadaqah (alms) from their wealth in order to purify them and sanctify them with it, and invoke Allah for them. Verily, your invocations are a source of security for them” [al-Tawbah 9:103]

Zakah (charity) purifies and cleanses wealth, and purifies the soul from stinginess and miserliness. It strengthens the love between the rich and poor, takes away hatred, makes security prevail and brings happiness to the ummah (Muslim nation).

Allah has made the payment of zakah (charity) obligatory upon everyone who owns the nisaa (minimum amount) for one year.

The rate of zakah on gold, silver, other metals and trade goods is one quarter of ten percent (i.e. 2.5%).
On agricultural produce and fruits the amount is one-tenth if it is irrigated (by artificial means), and one-half of one-tenth if it is not irrigated (by artificial means, i.e., it is watered by rainfall or other natural means).
Concerning animals (i.e., sheep, goats, cattle and camels) the details are explained in the books of fiqh…

Whoever pays zakah (charity), Allah expiates his sins thereby, and blesses his wealth, and stores up for him a great reward. Allah says:

“And perform As-Salah (Iqaamat-as-Salah), and give Zakah (charity), and whatever of good (deeds that Allah loves) you send forth for yourselves before you, you shall find it with Allah. Certainly, Allah is All-Seer of what you do”[al-Baqarah 2:110]

Withholding zakah (charity) brings disasters and evils upon the ummah. Allah has threatened those who withhold it with a painful torment on the Day of Resurrection. He says:

“...And those who hoard up gold and silver (Al‑Kanz: the money, the Zakah of which has not been paid) and spend them not in the way of Allah, announce unto them a painful torment.

On the Day when that (Al‑Kanz: money, gold and silver, the Zakah of which has not been paid) will be heated in the fire of Hell and with it will be branded their foreheads, their flanks, and their backs, (and it will be said unto them:) ‘This is the treasure which you hoarded for yourselves. Now taste of what you used to hoard’” [al-Tawbah 9:34-35]

Concealing one’s zakah (charity) is better than paying it openly in front of people, as Allah says:

“If you disclose your Sadaqat (almsgiving), it is well; but if you conceal them and give them to the poor, that is better for you. (Allah) will expiate you some of your sins. And Allah is Well-Acquainted with what you do [al-Baqarah 2:271]

When a Muslim pays his zakah (charity), it is not permissible for him to give it to anyone except those whom Allah mentions in the ayah (verse):

“As-Sadaqaat (here it means Zakah) are only for the Fuqara’ (poor), and Al‑Masakeen (the poor) and those employed to collect (the funds); and to attract the hearts of those who have been inclined (towards Islam); and to free the captives; and for those in debt; and for Allah’s Cause and for the wayfarer (a traveler who is cut off from everything); a duty imposed by Allah. And Allah is All-Knower, All-Wise” [al-Tawbah 9:60]

The Five Pillars Of Islam: Part II - Prayer (Salah)

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The second pillar: salah (prayer)

The Muslim believes that Allah has enjoined upon every sane adult Muslim five prayers each day and night, which he does in a state of purity, standing before his Lord, every day in a state of purity and humility, thanking his Lord for His blessings, asking Him of His bounty, seeking His forgiveness for his sins, asking Him for Paradise and seeking refuge in Him from Hell.

The five obligatory prayers which are required day and night are:

Fajr (early morning, before dawn),
Zuhr (mid-day, just after noon),
‘Asr (mid afternoon),
Maghrib (just after sunset) and
‘Ishaa’ (at night, after dark has fallen).

There are also Sunnah prayers such as Qiyaam al-Layl (prayer at night), Taraweeh prayers, two rak’ahs of Duha prayer, etc.

Prayer, whether it is fard or naafil, represents a sincere turning towards Allah alone in all one's affairs. Allah has commanded all the believers to guard strictly the observance of the prayers, as He says (interpretation of the meaning):

“Guard strictly (five obligatory) As‑Salawaat (the prayers) especially the middle Salah (i.e. the best prayer ‑ ‘Asr). And stand before Allah with obedience [and do not speak to others during the Salah (prayers)]”[al-Baqarah 2:238]

The five daily prayers are obligatory upon every Muslim man and woman, night and day:

“Verily, As‑Salah (the prayer) is enjoined on the believers at fixed hours”[al-Nisaa’ 4:103]

The one who abandons prayer has no share in Islam. Whoever neglects it deliberately is a kaafir (i.e. Non-Muslim), as Allah says:

“(And remain always) turning in repentance to Him (only), and be afraid and dutiful to Him; and perform As‑Salah (Iqaamat‑as‑Salah) and be not of Al‑Mushrikoon (the polytheists, idolaters, disbelievers in the Oneness of Allah)[al-Room 30:31]

Islam is based on co-operation, brotherhood and love, and Allah has prescribed coming together for these prayers and others, in order to attain these virtues. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Prayer in congregation is twenty-seven times better than prayer offered alone.” (Narrated by Muslim, no. 650)

Prayer helps the believer at times of hardship and calamity. Allah says:

“And seek help in patience and As-Salah (the prayer) and truly, it is extremely heavy and hard except for Al-Khaashi‘oon [i.e. the true believers in Allah — those who obey Allah with full submission, fear much from His punishment, and believe in His Promise (Paradise) and in His Warnings (Hell)].[al-Baqarah 2:45]

The five daily prayers wipe out sins, as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Do you not think that if there was a river at the door of any one of you, and he were to bathe in it five times each day, would there by any dirt left on him?” They said, “No dirt would be left on him at all.” He said, “That is the likeness of the five daily prayers, by means of which Allah erases sin.”

Prayer in the mosque is a means of entering Paradise. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) said: “Whoever comes and goes to the mosque, Allah will prepare for him a house in Paradise for each time he comes and goes.” (Narrated by Muslim, no. 669)

Prayer brings the slave and his Creator together. It was the delight of the Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him). Whenever any matter grieved him, he would turn to prayer and converse with his Lord and call upon Him, seeking His forgiveness and asking Him of His bounty.

Prayer done with proper humility and fear of Allah brings the Muslim closer to his Lord, and keeps him from doing evil, as Allah says:

“Recite (O Muhammad) what has been revealed to you of the Book (the Qur’an), and perform As‑Salah (Iqaamat‑as‑Salah). Verily, As‑Salah (the prayer) prevents from Al‑Fahsha’ (i.e. great sins of every kind, unlawful sexual intercourse) and Al‑Munkar (i.e. disbelief, polytheism, and every kind of evil wicked deed)”[al-‘Ankaboot 29:45]

The Five Pillars Of Islam: Part I - The Testimony of Faith

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The first pillar: al-Shahadatayn (the twin testimony of faith):

This means that a person believes that Allah alone is the Lord, Sovereign and Controller, the Creator and Provider. He affirms all His most beautiful names and the sublime attributes that Allah has affirmed for Himself or that His Prophet affirmed for Him. He believes that Allah alone, and no one else, is the Only One Who is deserving of worship, as Allah says:

“He is the Originator of the heavens and the earth. How can He have children when He has no wife? He created all things and He is the All-Knower of everything.

Such is Allah, your Lord! Laa ilaaha illa Huwa (none has the right to be worshiped but He), the Creator of all things. So worship Him (Alone), and He is the Wakeel (Trustee, Disposer of affairs or Guardian) over all things”[al-An’aam 6:101-102]

And he believes that Allah sent His Messenger Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him), and revealed to him the Qur’an, and commanded him to convey this religion to all of mankind. He believes that loving Allah and His Messenger and obeying them are duties which are obligatory upon all of mankind, and that love of Allah can only be realized by following His Messenger (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him):

“Say (O Muhammad to mankind): ‘If you (really) love Allah, then follow me (i.e. accept Islamic Monotheism, follow the Qur’aan and the Sunnah), Allah will love you and forgive you your sins. And Allah is Oft-Forgiving, Most Merciful” [Aal ‘Imraan 3:31]

What does Islam say about terrorism?

2009-05-03T19:23:00.005-04:00

Unfortunately more and more often, Islam has been associated with terrorism and violence due to the actions of a few extreme individuals who’ve taken it upon themselves to do the most heinous crimes in the name of Islam.

Tragic events such as the attack on the twin towers in New York, the bombings of Bali, Madrid and London are assumed to be justified by Islam in the minds of some people. This idea has been fueled further by many media channels which defame Islam by portraying these bombers as ‘Islamists’ or ‘Jihadists’, as though they were sanctioned by Islam, or had any legitimate spokemenship on behalf of Muslims. The actions of a few fanatical individuals who happen to have Muslim names or ascribe themselves to the Muslim faith should not be a yardstick by which Islam is judged. For the same reason, that one would not do justice to Christianity if it where perceived as sanctioning the genocide of the Native Americans, the atrocities of world war II or the bombings of the IRA.

To understand Islam’s stance on terrorism, one must refer to its original sources, the Quran and the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him (pbuh),which are explicit in their prohibition of any form of injustice including that of wanton violence which seeks to instill fear, injury or death to civilians.

The Quran turns our attention to the high value of human life, whether it is Muslim or Non-Muslim and makes it absolutely forbidden to take an innocent life unjustly. The gravity of such a crime is equated, in the Quran, with the killing of all humanity.

“On that account: We ordained for the Children of Israel that if any one slew a person - unless it be for murder or for spreading mischief in the land - it would be as if he slew the whole people: and if any one saved a life, it would be as if he saved the life of the whole people. Then although there came to them Our apostles with clear signs, yet, even after that, many of them continued to commit excesses in the land.” ( 5:32 )

Not only is human life sacred in Islam but the property, wealth, family and dignity of all individuals in society are to be respected and protected. Those who transgress these rights and sow fasad (corruption) as the Quran describes it, incur the wrath of Allah.

"…and seek not corruption in the earth; lo! Allah loveth not corrupters " (28:77)

Likewise in another verse;

“The blame is only against those who oppress men and wrong-doing and insolently transgress beyond bounds through the land, defying right and justice: for such there will be a penalty grievous” (42:42)

Islam goes further than just prohibiting oppression and safeguarding rights, it commands its faithful to deal kindly and compassionately to all those who seek to live in peace and harmony

"Allah forbids you not, with regard to those who fight you not for your faith, nor drive you out of your homes, from dealing kindly and justly with them: For Allah loves those who are just" (60:8)

In times of war and conflict, where enmity can obstruct an individual’s judgment to act morally, Islam commands that justice be upheld even towards one’s enemies.

"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" (5:8)

Centuries before the Geneva Convention was drawn up, Muslims were bound by a code of conduct which the Prophet Muhammad, peace be upon him, set. He forbade the killing of women, children and elderly in war. In an authentic narration the Prophet (pbuh) warned that he who kills anyone who has a covenant of peace with the Muslims will not smell the scent of Paradise. In fact, he taught that justice is not only to humans but must be shown to animals and all living things. In a narration the Prophet (pbuh) informed us about how a lady was sent to hell because of a cat she had locked up until it starved and died. If such is the sanctity which Islam places on the soul of an animal, how much more grave is the killing of hundreds of innocent humans?!

Abu Bakr the first Caliph of the Muslims reflected these prophetic teachings when he advised his general Yazid, who was confronting Roman armies,

"I advise you ten things, Do not kill women or children or an aged, infirm person. Do not cut down fruit-bearing trees. Do not destroy an inhabited place. Do not slaughter sheep or camels except for food. Do not burn bees and do not scatter them. Do not steal from the booty, and do not be cowardly."

The message of the Quran is clear as we have seen, that the sanctity of any human life is to be respected and any violation in that regard is paramount to the worst crime. Mercy is at the heart of the Islamic call, “We sent thee (O Muhammad) not save as a mercy for the peoples” (21:107); a totally different message to what the terrorists are sadly imparting to humanity.

Women In Islam: Beyond the Stereotypes

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What comes to your mind when you think of a Muslim woman? A mysterious, veiled victim of male oppression, awaiting Western liberation? A slogan-shouting terrorist? An uneducated foreigner with whom you have little or nothing in common? Unless your social circle includes Muslim friends and acquaintances, the chances are that your impressions of Muslim women have largely been formed by negative media stereotypes - images that usually have little to do with real life, and may have been designed to attract more viewers, sell more products, or gain support for someone's political agenda.

How much do you really know about Muslim women's lives or views, and why does it matter? Well, for one thing, Muslims account for 20-25% of the people on this planet, and Islam has become the second main religion in Europe. But did you know that the majority of European and American converts to Islam are women - not men? Would it surprise you to learn that many women in the Muslim world feel sorry for Western women and view them as being victimised? Have you ever stopped to consider why Muslim women who immigrate to the West usually maintain their identity and strive to pass it on to their children? A thinking person may well ask, if Islam is as oppressive to women as some journalists would have us believe, why aren't Muslim women running away in droves? What it is about Islam that attracts any followers outside its heartlands?

In this brochure we aim to look beyond sensationalistic or alarmist stories to take a glimpse at what Islam has to offer educated women in today's world, and understand why so many (men and) women of every race, colour, and social class have made Islam their choice. The truth, like real life, is beyond propaganda and stereotypes.

The Islamic view of women

First of all, women are portrayed positively in the Qur'an and the Hadith (sayings of the Prophet Muhammad). The Qur'an is the only book of world Scripture in which women are frequently referred to alongside men, and both are described as being friends and partners in faith. The following verses are just a few notable examples:

The believers, men and women, are protecting friends one of another; they promote the right and forbid the wrong, establish prayer, pay the poor-due, and they obey God and His messenger. As for these, God will have mercy on them. Surely God is Mighty, Wise. God has promised to believers, men and women, gardens under which rivers flow, to dwell therein, and beautiful mansions in gardens of everlasting bliss. But the greatest bliss is the good pleasure of God: that is the supreme felicity. (Qur'an 9:71-72)

Surely for men who surrender to God, and women who surrender and men who believe and women who believe; and men who obey and women who obey;and men who speak the truth and women who speak the truth; and men who persevere (in righteousness) and women who persevere; and men who are humble and women who are humble;and men who give alms and women who give alms;and men who fast and women who fast;and men who guard their modesty and women who guard (their modesty);and men who remember Allah much and women who remember - Allah has prepared for them forgiveness and a vast reward. (Qur'an 33:35)

There is no question in Islam of men and women being at odds with one another, engaged in some kind of historical struggle for power. Rather, the roles of both are complementary and essential. The Qur'an states:

O mankind! Be mindful of your duty to your Lord, Who created you from a single being, and from it created its mate, and from the two of them has scattered countless men and women (throughout the earth). Fear God, in Whose (Name) you demand your rights of one another, and (be mindful of your duty) towards the wombs that bore you. God is ever Watching over you. (Qur'an 4:1)

Do not long for the favours by which God has made some of you excel others. Men shall have a share of what they have earned, and women shall have a share of what they have earned. (Do not envy each other) but ask God to give you of His bounty. God has knowledge of all things. (Qur'an 4:31-32)

The Prophet Muhammad augmented the revelations he received with further teachings and his wonderful personal example, which made him beloved by family and followers alike. He forbade violence against women, and preached against all forms of abuse of power. He warned that both men and women would be held accountable by God for those in their care or under their authority, and said:

Let no Muslim man entertain any bad feeling against a Muslim woman. If he should dislike one quality in her, he will find another that is pleasing.

The best of believers are those who are best to their wives and families.

The position of women in other religions

While these teachings may not seem very remarkable today, they were revolutionary at the time they were revealed, for Arabs and non-Arabs alike. While Muslim sons were being taught that Paradise lay at their mothers' feet, women in Confucian China were told to obey their fathers, then their husbands, and finally their sons after their husbands' death. Hindu women were declared to be unfit for independence, inherently weak, easily misled, sinful and unintelligent. In Buddhism, women were said to be the personification of evil. At the time, Jews and Christians believed women to be responsible for the downfall of the human race, and considered menstruation and childbirth to be the consequences of a Divine curse. One thousand years after Muhammad, in 1586, French Catholics were still debating whether or not women possessed souls! English Christians burned millions of women alive on the mere suspicion that they were witches. Married women in Europe did not gain the right to own property, obtain a divorce or enter into their own contracts until the 19th century. Not surprisingly, women who found such teachings unreasonable rebelled against them and fought for better treatment. Whereas other women have often had to pit themselves against the authority of a male priesthood, in Islam the dynamics of social change have been quite different.

Muhammad was greatly concerned with women's rights

The Prophet Muhammad was an extremely successful social reformer as well as spiritual and political leader, who championed the rights of the weak and oppressed. The Qur'anic verses referring to women had the effect of vastly improving the status and rights of women at the time they were revealed. Muslim women were granted the right to own, inherit and dispose of their own property as they saw fit; reject forced marriages; keep their own names and identities after marriage; initiate divorce; and obtain an education - back in the 7th century. In contrast to the dismal situation affecting many women in developing countries today, early Muslim women were noted for their learning and accomplishments. The Prophet declared, 'To seek knowledge is an obligation on every Muslim, male and female,' and his own wife Aisha was responsible for transmitting thousands of his sayings to later generations. Aisha was also renowned for her knowledge of poetry, medicine, and Islamic law, as well as her personal qualities of character and intelligence. When she led a battle after the Prophet's death, no one objected on the grounds that she was a woman. Many Muslim women in the medieval period enjoyed positions of respect as scholars and religious authorities. Therefore, Muslims seeking to improve the position of women in society have usually focused their efforts on getting men (and women) to practice Islam, rather than trying to 'reform' it, as happened with other religions. The main obstacles to Muslim women achieving the rights guaranteed to them, then and now, have been persistent un-Islamic cultural traditions (usually dating to the period before people accepted Islam in a given locality), inadequate religious education, and the bad side of human nature.

Women's roles, rights and obligations

Spiritual status
As shown in the Qur'anic verses above, women are considered to be the spiritual equals of men, and they have the same religious duties. This is all the more important when we consider that the main goal of a Muslim is to serve God, and that this world is regarded as no more than a testing-grounds to prepare oneself for eternal life after death. Therefore, worldly accomplishments, fame, wealth and power simply do not have the same attraction for a Muslim, whose main focus is on the Next World. The Qur'an repeatedly draws our attention to the fact that the time we spend in this world is short and unpredictable, and what really counts is our character, how we treat others, and what we do with the blessings God has given us. In this context, home and family are of paramount importance, since stable families are essential to the rearing of well-adjusted children who will transmit their faith and values to the next generation. According to a well-known Arab proverb, 'The mother is a school.'

Social roles
Islam supports the traditional division of labour whereby women assume the main responsibility for home while men are responsible for their financial support, but with an important difference: motherhood and homemaking, like a Muslim's inner life, are not considered to be less important or rewarding than a professional career. Indeed, motherhood is one of the most important professions, and competent mothers who can successfully run a warm and welcoming home, and raise a family of happy, confident and well-disciplined children are becoming increasingly harder to find. Muslim wives and mothers are granted the respect due to all women for the struggles and sacrifices they make for the sake of their families. Furthermore, Muslims consider it unfair to burden women with both the physical and emotional demands of motherhood and the professional demands of the workplace, which end up exhausting so many women and destroying family life for the sake of economic gain. Muslims often express sympathy for women in the West, who often suffer from sexual exploitation and abuse at home and in the workplace, while being unappreciated in their traditional roles. Western women who seek to be respected must often dress and behave like men, and are expected in practise to neglect their children's needs for the sake of their careers. In Islam, femininity is appreciated, and Muslim women may seek a higher education, work outside the home or volunteer their services to benefit the community as long as their primary responsibilities are taken care of. Any money that a Muslim woman earns is her own, to spend as she likes; men remain solely responsible for maintaining the family.

Islamic marriage
Although Muslim parents traditionally play an important role in arranging introductions and helping to choose marriage partners for their children, both husband and wife must freely agree to the marriage. The Prophet granted girls who had been forced into marriages against their will the right to have their marriages annulled.

The relationship between husband and wife in Islam is an interdependent one, based on love and tranquility. The Qur'an says,

And of His signs is this: He created spouses for you from among yourselves that you might find comfort in them, and He put between you love and mercy. Surely there are signs in that for people who reflect. (Qur'an 30:21)

Both parents should strive to establish a stable, loving home and partnership. Major family decision-making should be through consultation and discussion. As the provider, the husband is expected to take the lead, as he is accountable to God for his care of the family. If no agreement can be reached, the wife should be supportive as long as her husband does not ask her to do anything that contravenes religious law. This works well as long as each spouse behaves maturely and treats the other with respect, kindness and consideration.

Codes of behaviour for women and men

In order to safeguard the moral integrity of family and society, Muslim men and women are expected to observe certain guidelines of behaviour that Westerners may find restrictive. Both sexes are expected to dress modestly in loose, non-transparent clothing and avoid situations that would put them alone with members of the opposite sex, or lead to temptation or misunderstandings. Muslim women additionally cover their hair, since women are ordinarily considered to be the more attractive of the sexes. These restrictions are not observed at home among close family members, but serve to protect women's honour in public and draw attention to their personal qualities rather than their looks. In Islam, the sexual urge is considered to be natural and desirable as long as it is confined to expression within marriage. However, Muslims are saddened by the rise in the vulgar exploitation of women and the human body for marketing purposes and pornography, which inevitably result in a cheapening of sexuality and the undermining of family and spiritual life.

Islam's appeal to today's woman

For women who enjoy being women and appreciate the differences (as well as the common ground) between the sexes, who would prefer to be respected for their intelligence and character rather than being chased after for their looks, and who would like to pursue personal and spiritual fulfilment at a human pace without having to neglect their families, Islam is a very appealing alternative.

A few words about polygamy…

Many people are aware that Muslim men are permitted to marry more than one wife. What is not generally known is that strict conditions of equal treatment in terms of time and money are imposed on men who do, or that women may stipulate in their marriage contracts that they have the right to divorce if their husbands take another wife. In reality, monogamy is the norm and polygamy the exception; it has never been common among Muslims except in areas where it was already practised, and it is seldom successful unless the first wife agrees. Islam did not introduce polygamy; in reality, some form of polygamy - whether with legal marriages, mistresses, prostitution or extra-marital affairs - occurs in every society. Rather, it allowed and regulated it in order to protect the women and children who might otherwise be taken advantage of. In certain cases, such as when the first wife is chronically (or mentally) ill or unable to bear children; when there are many widows and orphans due to war; or when a marriage has effectively broken down but the wife would prefer to remain married; open and legalised polygamy can be a workable second-best solution.

The Prophet Muhammad was married to his first wife, Khadijah, for 25 years, and he did not take other wives until after her death. His marriages to several widows and divorcees in later years were primarily contracted for political and humanitarian reasons, as was expected of a man in his position. His home life was characterized by love, consideration, kindness and respect.

The Six Pillars of Eman (Faith)

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The Six Pillars of Iman (Faith):

1) Belief in Allah

2) Belief in His Angels

3) Belief in His Holy Books

4) Belief in His Messengers

5) Belief in the Last Day (i.e. the Day of Judgment)

6) Belief in Divine Will and Decree (Al-Qada' wal-Qadar)

Two of the Pillars of Faith is to believe in Allah's books and Allah's Messengers. You will notice that this is plural. The reason being that as a Muslim, we have to believe in all the scriptures that were sent down before the Quran, and all the Messengers that were sent before the Prophet Muhammad.

We believe that there were four scriptures sent down in total:

1) the Tawraat (or Torah) which was sent with Prophet Musa (Moses)

2) the Zaboor (or Psalms) which was sent with Prophet Dawud (David)

3) the Injeel (or Gospel) which was sent with Prophet 'Isa (Jesus)

4) the Quran which was sent with Prophet Muhammad

The Prophets and Messengers that Allah sent were many, but Allah only mentions 25 in the Quran (listen below in chronological order):

Adam, Idrees (Enoch), Nuh (Noah), Hud, Salih, Ibrahem (Abraham), Loot (Lot), Ismae'l (Ishmael), Ishaaq (Isaac), Ya'qoob (Jacob), Yuseuf (Joseph), Shu'ayb, Ayyoub (Job), Dhul-Kifl, Musa (Moses), Haroon (Aaron), Dawud (David), Sulayman (Solomon), Ilyaas (Elias), Al-Yasa' (Elisha), Yunus (Jonah), Zakarriya (Zachariah), Yahyaa (John), 'Isa (Jesus), and Muhammad.

The Five Pillars of Islam

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The Six Pillars of Iman (Faith):

1) Belief in Allah

2) Belief in His Angels

3) Belief in His Holy Books

4) Belief in His Messengers

5) Belief in the Last Day (i.e. the Day of Judgment)

6) Belief in Divine Will and Decree (Al-Qada' wal-Qadar)

We believe that there were four scriptures sent down in total:

1) the Tawraat (or Torah) which was sent with Prophet Musa (Moses)

2) the Zaboor (or Psalms) which was sent with Prophet Dawud (David)

3) the Injeel (or Gospel) which was sent with Prophet 'Isa (Jesus)

4) the Quran which was sent with Prophet Muhammad

The Prophets and Messengers that Allah sent were many, but Allah only mentions 25 in the Quran (listen below in chronological order):

A Brief Overview of Islam

2009-04-22T13:39:00.007-04:00

"Islam" means submission and "Muslim" means one who submits. This submission is to Allah (God) only and no one else. We believe that there is only one God, and that no one is worthy of worship except for Allah, and we believe that Muhammad (Peace be upon him) was His final messenger.

Allah:

Allah is the Arabic word for God . Allah is One, has no partner and no son. The Muslim's focus and aim is concentrated, focused on his Lord and Creator; he puts his trust in Him and asks Him for help, patience and support; he believes that Allah is able to do all things, and has no need of a wife or son. Allah created the heavens and earth; He is the One Who gives life and death; He is the Creator and Sustainer from Whom the Muslim seeks provision. He is the All-Hearing Who responds to supplications, and from Whom the Muslim hopes for a response. He is the All-Merciful and All-Forgiving, to Whom the Muslim turns in repentance when he has committed a sin or fallen short in his worship of Allah. He is the Omniscient and All-Seeing, who knows all intentions and what is hidden in people's hearts.

Allah said in the Quran (interpretation of the meaning):

Say: He is Allah, the One and Only; Allah, the Eternal, Absolute; He begetteth not, nor is He begotten; And there is none like unto Him. [al-Ikhlas, 112:1-4]

Allah also said (interpretation of the meaning):

Allah! There is no god but He, the Living, the Self-subsisting, Eternal. No slumber can seize Him nor sleep. His are all things in the heavens and on earth. Who is there can intercede in His presence except as He permitteth? He knoweth what (appeareth to His creatures as) Before or After or Behind them. Nor shall they compass aught of His knowledge except as He willeth. His Throne doth extend over the heavens and the earth, and He feeleth no fatigue in guarding and preserving them for He is the Most High, the Supreme (in glory). [al-Baqarah, 2:255]

The name Allah and is not exclusive to Muslims. Arabs of different faiths (Christians, Jews etc...) also use the word Allah in reference to God.

Muhammad:

Muhammad was the last of Allah's prophets to be sent to mankind. There were many prophets before him, and I will explain that later. A part of the Muslim's faith is to believe that Muhammad was the final Prophet of Allah, and that his message was the truth. Allah spoke to Muhammad through revelation through the angel Gabriel. Some of this revelation was a part of the Quran (the Holy book) and some of it was applied in the Prophet's life, without it being a part of the Quran. That is why the two main sources in Islam are the Quran and the life of the Prophet.

Quran:

The Quran is the Holy book that was revealed from Allah to the Prophet Muhammad through the angel Gabriel.

Hadith:

Hadith are the sayings or teachings of the Prophet that Allah ordered him to say in order to teach his companions.

The Five Pillars of Islam:

1) The testimony of faith: The belief that there is no God to be worshiped except Allah (the one God) and that Muhammad (peace and blessings of God be upon him) is His messenger.

2) Performing the prescribed prayers, five times a day.

3) Charity; which is paid to the poor and needy once every year.

4) Fasting once a year, from sunrise to sunset throughout the entire month of Ramadan.

5) Hajj, which is the pilgrimage to Mecca once in a lifetime if one is physically able and can afford it financially.

The Six Pillars of Iman (Faith):

1) Belief in Allah

2) Belief in His Angels

3) Belief in His Holy Books

4) Belief in His Messengers

5) Belief in the Last Day (i.e. the Day of Judgment)

6) Belief in Divine Will and Decree (Al-Qada' wal-Qadar)

We believe that there were four scriptures sent down in total:

1) the Tawraat (or Torah) which was sent with Prophet Musa (Moses)

2) the Zaboor (or Psalms) which was sent with Prophet Dawud (David)

3) the Injeel (or Gospel) which was sent with Prophet 'Isa (Jesus)

4) the Quran which was sent with Prophet Muhammad

The Prophets and Messengers that Allah sent were many, but Allah only mentions 25 in the Quran (listen below in chronological order):

The Prophet 'Isa (Jesus):

Our beliefs concerning the Messiah 'Isa ibn Maryam (Jesus the son of Mary – peace be upon him) are those indicated by the Book of Allah and the Sunnah of our Messenger Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allah be upon him) [i.e. in the Hadith].

We believe that 'Isa (peace be upon him) was one of the slaves of Allah, and one of His noble Messengers. Allah sent him to the Children of Israel to call them to believe in Allah alone and worship Him alone.

Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"And (remember) when 'Isa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), said: 'O Children of Israel! I am the Messenger of Allah unto you, confirming the Tawraat [(Torah) which came] before me, and giving glad tidings of a Messenger to come after me, whose name shall be Ahmad.' But when he (Ahmad, i.e. Muhammad) came to them with clear proofs, they said: 'This is plain magic'" [al-Saff 61:6]

We believe that 'Isa was born from the Virgin Maryam (Mary) with no father, and that is not impossible for Allah Who, when He wills a thing, says "Be!" and it is.

Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"Verily, the likeness of 'Isa (Jesus) before Allah is the likeness of Adam. He created him from dust, then (He) said to him: 'Be!' — and he was" [Aal 'Imraan 3:59]

"(Remember) when the angels said: 'O Maryam (Mary)! Verily, Allah gives you the glad tidings of a Word ['Be!' — and he was! i.e. 'Isa (Jesus) the son of Maryam (Mary)] from Him, his name will be the Messiah 'Isa (Jesus), the son of Maryam (Mary), held in honour in this world and in the Hereafter, and will be one of those who are near to Allah."

He will speak to the people, in the cradle and in manhood, and he will be one of the righteous.'

She said: 'O my Lord! How shall I have a son when no man has touched me.' He said: 'So (it will be) for Allah creates what He wills. When He has decreed something, He says to it only: "Be!" and it is'" [Aal 'Imraan 3:45-47]

The first words that 'Eesa spoke when Allaah caused him to speak when he was in the cradle were (interpretation of the meaning):

"He ['Eesa (Jesus)] said: 'Verily, I am a slave of Allaah, He has given me the Scripture and made me a Prophet'" [Maryam 19:30]

We believe that Allaah supported him with miracles that proved he was speaking the truth.

Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"(Remember) when Allah will say (on the Day of Resurrection). 'O 'Isa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary)! Remember My Favour to you and to your mother when I supported you with Rooh‑ul‑Qudus [Jibreel (Gabriel)] so that you spoke to the people in the cradle and in maturity; and when I taught you writing, Al‑Hikmah (the power of understanding), the Tawraat (Torah) and the Injeel (Gospel); and when you made out of the clay, a figure like that of a bird, by My Permission, and you breathed into it, and it became a bird by My Permission, and you healed those born blind, and the lepers by My Permission, and when you brought forth the dead by My Permission; and when I restrained the Children of Israel from you (when they resolved to kill you) as you came unto them with clear proofs, and the disbelievers among them said: This is nothing but evident magic'" [al-Maa'idah 5:110]

We believe that he did not die and his enemies did not kill him, rather Allah saved him from them and raised him up to heaven alive.

Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"And because of their disbelief and uttering against Maryam (Mary) a grave false charge (that she has committed illegal sexual intercourse);

And because of their saying (in boast), 'We killed Messiah 'Isa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary), the Messenger of Allah,' — but they killed him not, nor crucified him, but it appeared so to them the resemblance of 'Isa (Jesus) was put over another man (and they killed that man)], and those who differ therein are full of doubts. They have no (certain) knowledge, they follow nothing but conjecture. For surely; they killed him not [i.e. 'Isa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary)]:

But Allah raised him ['Isa (Jesus)] up (with his body and soul) unto Himself (and he is in the heavens). And Allah is Ever All‑Powerful, All‑Wise" [al-Nisa' 4:156-158]

'Isa was not a god or the son of God as the Christians claim.

Allah says (interpretation of the meaning):

"Surely, they have disbelieved who say: 'Allah is the Messiah ['Isa (Jesus)], son of Maryam (Mary).'" [al-Maa'idah 5:72]

"And the Jews say: 'Uzair (Ezra) is the son of Allah, and the Christians say: Messiah is the son of Allah. That is their saying with their mouths, resembling the saying of those who disbelieved aforetime. Allah's Curse be on them, how they are deluded away from the truth!" [al-Tawbah 9:30]

"And (remember) when Allaah will say (on the Day of Resurrection): 'O 'Isa (Jesus), son of Maryam (Mary)! Did you say unto men: Worship me and my mother as two gods besides Allah?' He will say: 'Glory be to You! It was not for me to say what I had no right (to say). Had I said such a thing, You would surely have known it. You know what is in my inner‑self though I do not know what is in Yours; truly, You, only You, are the All‑Knower of all that is hidden (and unseen).

Never did I say to them aught except what You (Allah) did command me to say: Worship Allah, my Lord and your Lord. And I was a witness over them while I dwelt amongst them, but when You took me up, You were the Watcher over them; and You are a Witness to all things'" [al-Maa'idah 5:116-117]

We believe that 'Isa (Jesus) will come back down at the end of time, and will disprove the claim of his enemies that they killed him, and will disprove the claim of the Christians that he is God or the son of God, and he will not accept anything from them but Islam.

Why?

You may be wondering, why were there so many Prophets? And why was the Prophet Muhammad sent if there were already Prophets and scriptures before him? As Muslims, we believe that everyone is born in the state of fitrah (natural disposition) and are born with this innate belief in Allah (God) but then their fitrah (natural disposition) is corrupted by the influences around them. Similarly,when Adam was first placed on earth, the generations following were righteous, but then shaytan (satan) led them astray, and thus there was a need for a prophet to remind them and set them aright once more. However, Prophet Muhammad is the last prophet to be sent and Allah promised that He will preserve His book so that the knowledge of the truth will be available until the Day of Judgment.

Also, we believe that anyone who hears of the message of Islam and does not choose to follow it, will not enter Paradise.

If you want to know more, check out A Brief Illustrated Guide to Understanding Islam.

Welcome!

2009-04-22T12:48:00.007-04:00

Welcome to my Blog!

I have realized that a lot of people are very curious about Islam but do not get the chance to ask questions because they either do not know many Muslims, or they are afraid that their questions will be deemed offensive.

Since I am just a stranger on the internet, don't worry about offending me ;)

Questions are always welcome, even controversial ones, but they must be genuine questions meant for actually learning. I will not debate my religion here.

So, browse around, if you have any questions ask (by leaving a comment), and have fun reading!