In Response to ISIS

ISIS is a terrorist organization that has been killing Muslims, and non-Muslims mainly in Iraq and Syria... all in the hopes of achieving an "Islamic State"

They're actions are anything but Islamic.

I've thought a lot about what to write for this post.. but honestly, I will post a link to the 19 page "Open Letter to Baghdadi" which was compiled and signed by 126 Muslim leaders worldwide:

http://lettertobaghdadi.com/

It details, point by point why the Islamic State's actions are wrong, based on the teachings of Islam.


If you have the time, please read through the letter.

What Does Islam Say About Terrorism? - A repost

Hello everyone, 

This was actually one of the first posts I made on my blog when I first started it, but in light of the Boston Marathon Bombings, I believe it is important to post it again:



What Does Islam Say About Terrorism?

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.

Copyright Islamway

Eid Mubarak!

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

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?

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

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

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

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

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

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)

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

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!

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

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

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

Jesus (peace be upon him)

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.