Category Archives: Ramadan
Fasting 6 days of Shawaal after Ramadhan
Fasting in Shawaal…
Aboo Ayyoob al-Ansaaree (R.A) Narrated That the Prophet Muhammad (Peace be upon him) said:
“He who fasts Ramadhaan, and six of Shawwaal, it will be (in terms of rewards) as if the fasted a whole year.”
[Reported by Sahih Muslim, at-Tirmidhee, Aboo Daawood, Ahmad, Ibn Maajah]
Eid-ul Fitr Prayer in All over the world – Pictures
Performing Eid-Ul Fitr Prayer of 2012 yr. in All over the world
2.5 Million Muslims prayed Eid prayer in Meka today !!!
Eid prayer today in Masjid Al Aqsa;
Eid-ul Fitr and Sunnah(s) of Eid
✿ ♥ ღ ♥ EID MUBARAK ♥ ღ ♥ ✿ 
Sunnah of Eid
*Wake up early.
*Prepare for personal cleanliness, take care of details of clothing, etc.
*Take a Ghusl (bath) after Fajr.
*Clean teeth with Maswak or Brush your teeth.
*Dress up, putting on best clothes available, whether new or cleaned old ones.
*Use perfume (men only).
*Have breakfast on Eid-al-Fitr before leaving for prayer ground. On Eid-al-Adha, eat breakfast after Salaat or after sacrifice if you are doing a sacrifice.
*Pay Zakaat-al-Fitr before Salaat-al-Eid (on Eid-al-Fitr).
*Go to prayer ground early.
*Offer Salaat-al-Eid in congregation in an open place except when whether is not permitting like rain, snow, etc.
*Use two separate route to and from the prayer ground.
*Recite the following Takbir on the way to Salaat and until the beginning of Salaat-al-Eid:
Allaho-Akber, Allaho-Akber. La ila-ha ill-lal-lah. Allaho-Akber, Allaho-Akber. Wa-lilahill hamd.
(Allah is great, Allah is great. There is no god but Allah. Allah is great, Allah is great. And all praises are for Allah).
How to offer Eid prayer?
Ibn Abbass (R.A) reported: ” I participated in the Eid-ul-Fitr prayer with the Messenger of Allah (saw), Abu Bakr (ra), Umar (ra) and Uthman (ra), and all of them held Eid prayer before Khutbah, and then the Prophet Muhammad (saw) delivered the Khutbah (sermon).” ( Sahih Muslim )
Who should go to the prayer ground & offer Eid Prayer:
Umm Atiyah (ra) reported: “The Messenger of Allah (saw) commanded us to bring out on Eid-al-Fitr and Eid-al-Adha, young women, hijab-observing adult women and the menstruating women. The menstruating women stayed out of actual Salaat but participated in good deeds and Duaa (supplication). I (Umm Atiyah) said to the Holy Prophet (saw): Oh! Messenger of Allah, one does not have an outer garment. He replied: Let her sister cover her with her garment.”
(Sahih Muslim)
On the Eid day, every believing man, woman and child must go to the prayer ground and participate in this joyous occasion.
Structure of Eid prayer:
Eid prayer is wajib (strongly recommended, just short of obligatory). It consists of two Rakaat (units) with six Takbir. It must be offered in congregation. The prayer is followed by the Khutbah.
The Khutbah is part of the worship and listening to it is Sunnah. During the Khutbah, the Imam must remind the community about its responsibilities and obligations towards Allah, fellow Muslims and the fellow human beings. The Imam must encourage the Muslims to do good and ward off evil. The Muslim community must also be directed to the state of the community and the Ummah at large and the feelings of sacrifice and Jihaad should be aroused in the community. At the conclusion of the prayer the Muslims should convey greetings to each other, give reasonable gifts to the youngsters and visit each other at their homes. Muslims should also take this opportunity to invite their non-Muslims neighbors, co-workers, classmates and business acquaintances to Eid festivities to expose them to Islam and Muslim culture.
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Zakatul Fitr (Sadaqat al-Fitr) made simple
As this sacred month [Ramadhan Al Karim] draws to a close and Eid approaches we could do worse than to think about Sadaqatul-Fitr or Zakatul Fitr as it is sometimes called. Here are some points to understand and remember about the Fiqh of Sadaqatul-Fitr.
WHAT IS SADAQATUL-FITR?
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Missing Ramadhan :( and My Routine After Ramadan In’sha’Allah
My Routine After Ramadan In’sha’Allah..
AlHamdulillahi wa kafaa, was-Salatu was-salamu `alaa `ibaadihi-lladheena Stafaa
We leave the blessed month of Ramadan, its beautiful days and its fragrant nights. We leave the month of the Qur’an, taqwa, patience, jihad, mercy, forgiveness and freedom from hellfire…
Zakat-ul Fitr – Sadaqa fitr
Zakat ul Fitr is an obligatory charity on every young and old; male and female; free and slave Muslim towards the end of the month of Ramadan. It is an addition to the annual Zakat also called as Sadaqa al Fitr. Its prominence is such that it is the hallmark of Eid and aptly named as Eid ul Fitr. It amounts to the value equivalent to feed a person for one day. Ibn Umar said: “The Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) enjoined the payment of one Sa’a of dates or one Sa’a of barley as Zakat al-Fitr on every Muslim, young and old, male and female, free and slave.” (Sahhih Bukhari and Muslim)
Zakat-ul-Fitr purifies one from any type of indecent act or speech which he/she might have committed while observing fast. This charity is imposed so that the needs of the poor are attained to thereby making them possible to celebrate Eid with other fellow Muslims. Ibn Abbas said: “The Prophet Muhammad (peace and blessings be upon him) enjoined Zakat Al-Fitr so that those who fast are purified of their sins and the poor and needy people are enabled to arrange for their basic needs of food, clothing etc. Therefore, the Sadaqah (charity) of the person who gives before the `Eid prayer is the real Sadaqah, but if someone delays and gives it afterwards, his charity will be an ordinary one.”
(Abu Dawud and Ibn Majah)
The word Sa’a in Arabic, mentioned in the hadith is a measure approximated to the volume of 2.5 kg to 2.75 kg of good quality wheat. The material of the Zakat al Fitr can also be dates, barley, rice, corn or similar items considered as basic foods that are habitually consumed. Abu Saeed said: “We used to give for Zakat al-Fitr on behalf of every child, aged person, free man or slave during the lifetime of the Messenger of ALLAH PBUH – one Sa’a of food, or one Sa’a of dried yogurt, or one Sa’a of barley, or one Sa’a of dates, or one Sa’a of raisins.” (Sahih Bukhari and Muslim)
The poor and the needy are the most deserving to receive Zakat al-Fitr as Prophet PBUH said “…the purpose of it is providing food for the needy.” Better that Zakat al-Fitr is paid during the end of Ramadan. It can be paid (or preferably paid) one or two days before Eid as ‘Umar RA used to do, or on the day of Eid before the Eid prayer. Ibn `Umar reported that the Prophet Muhammad (PBUH) ordered them to pay Zakat al-Fitr before they go out to perform the Eid prayer.
Note if Zakat al-Fitr is paid after the Eid prayer, it will only be considered as regular charity. The Prophet Muhammad PBUH said: “If one pays Zakat al-Fitr before the Salat, it is considered as an accepted Zakat, if he pays it after the Salat, it is considered an ordinary charity.” (Abu Dawud)
Info about Sadaqat ul-Fitr:
Question1: Who should give Sadaqat ul-Fitr?
Answer:Zakat ul-fitr is a type of sadaqah which must be paid by every Muslim, young and old, male and female, free and slave, at the end of the month of fasting(Ramadan)
Question2: Who Must Pay Sadaqat ul fitr:
Answer:
Zakat ul-fitr is i on every free Muslim who possesses one sa’ (about 2kg 100 grm )of dates or barley which is not needed as a basic food for himself or his family for the duration of one day and night
Question3: what should be give in Sadaqat ul Fitr ?
Answer : The required amount of zakat ul-fitr is one sa’ (about 2kg 100grm) )of wheat, barley, raisins,dry cottage cheese (aqit), rice, corn, or similar items considered as basic foods.
Question4: Can a person give price of these things ?
Answer: yes based on need better to give these things but if a person give money equal to the price of these things it will be allowed .
Question5: When should it be given ?
Answer : Three days ,Two or day before …giving it before this is not allowed .
And those who give it after eid salah (Prayer) has not benefit, so they can give before the prayer as well.
The Night of Decree (Lailatul Qadr) and Sunnah Worships
How should a Muslim seek Lailatul-Qadr?
O brothers! You know the importance of this night, so stand in Prayer in the last ten nights, in worship, detaching oneself from the women, ordering your family with this, and increasing in actions of obedience and worship in it.
It was narrated that ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) said:
When the last ten days of Ramadaan began, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) would tighten his waist-wrapper, spend his nights in prayer, and wake his family.
[Narrated by Sahih Muslim, 2024; Sahih Muslim, 1174]
Allaah swt says (interpretation of the meaning):
“Verily, We have sent it (this Qur’aan) down in the Night of Al‑Qadr (Decree).
2. And what will make you know what the Night of Al‑Qadr (Decree) is?
Question:
How should we observe Laylat al-Qadr? Is it by praying, or by reading Qur’aan and the Prophet’s Seerah, listening to lectures and lessons and by celebrating it in the mosque?.
How should we observe Laylat al-Qadr and when is it?
Praise be to Allaah.
Firstly:
The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to strive hard in worship during the last ten days of Ramadaan as he never did at any other time, praying, reading Qur’aan and making du’aa’. Al-Bukhaari and Muslim narrated from ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her) that when the last ten days of Ramadaan came, the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) would stay up at night and would wake his family up, and would abstain from marital relations. Ahmad and Muslim narrated that he used to used to strive hard in worship during the last ten days of Ramadaan as he never did at any other time.
Secondly:
The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) enjoined staying up and praying on Laylat al-Qadr out of faith and in the hope of reward. It was narrated from Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever stays up and prays on Laylat al-Qadr out of faith and in the hope of reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.” Agreed upon. This hadeeth indicates that it is prescribed to observe Laylat al-Qadr by spending the night in prayer.
Thirdly:
One of the best du’aa’s that may be recited on Laylat al-Qadr is that which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) taught to ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her). Al-Tirmidhi narrated, and classed the report as saheeh, that ‘Aa’ishah said: “I said, ‘O Messenger of Allaah, if I know which night is Laylat al-Qadr, what should I say on that night?’ He said, ‘Say: Allaahumma innaka ‘afuwwun tuhibb al-‘afwa fa’affu ‘anni (O Allaah, You are forgiving and You love forgiveness, so forgive me).”
Fourthly:
With regard to specifying which night of Ramadaan is Laylat al-Qadr, this needs specific evidence, but the odd-numbered nights during the last ten nights are more likely than others, and the night of the twenty-seventh is the most likely to be Laylat al-Qadr, because that is mentioned in the ahaadeeth.
Fifthly:
With regard to innovations, they are not permissible during Ramadaan or at other times. It was proven that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever innovates anything in this matter of ours that is not part of it will have it rejected.” According to another report, “Whoever does any action that is not part of this matter of ours will have it rejected.”
We know of no basis for the celebrations that are held during some nights of Ramadaan. The best of guidance is the guidance of Muhammad (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and the worst of matters are those which are innovated (bid’ah).
And Allaah is the Source of strength. May Allaah send blessings and peace upon our Prophet Muhammad and his family and companions.
Standing Committee for Academic Research and Issuing Fatwas , 10/413
Islam Q&A
Date and its Medical benefits
♥ Prophet Muhammad (Peace & Allah’s blessing be upon Him) said, “Break your fast by eating dates as it is purifying.” [Ahmad]
♥ Prophet Muhammad (Peace & Allah’s blessing be upon Him) said, “ Whoever finds dates should break his fast with them and the one who does not should break his fast with water because it is pure.”
★ Health Benefits:
5● Dates are rich in natural fibers, they also surpass other fruits in the sheer variety of their constituents. They contain oil, calcium, sulphur, iron, potassium, phosphorous, manganese, copper and magnesium.
Safeguarding As-Saum (The Fast)
بسم اللہ الرحمن الرحیم
ALLAH The Exalted says:
O you who believe, fasting is decreed for you, as it was decreed for those before you, that you may attain salvation. [ Translation of the Holy Quran, 2:183]
Ahadith:
1. Abu Hurairah (May ALLAH be pleased with him) reported: The Messenger of ALLAH (PBUH) said, “When any one of you is observing Saum (fasting) on a day, he should neither indulge in obscene language nor should he raise the voice; and if anyone reviles him or tries to quarrel with him he should say: `I am observing fast.”’ [Sahih Al-Bukhari and Muslim].
Commentary:
We learn from this hadith that during Saum not only food, drink and sex are prohibited but the improper use of the tongue and the other organs of the body as well. When one is observing Saum, he should neither use abusive language nor talk foolishly nor tell lies nor make obscene conversation nor indulge in backbiting nor quarrel with anyone. If someone provokes him, he should keep himself quiet and remember that he is observing Saum and he has to abstain from such things. As far as possible, he should keep his tongue engaged in the remembrance of ALLAH and recitation of the Qur’an.
2. Abu Hurairah (May ALLAH be pleased with him) reported: The Prophet (PBUH) said, “If one does not eschew lies and false conduct, ALLAH has no need that he should abstain from his food and his drink.” [Sahih Al-Bukhari].
Commentary:
This Hadith exhorts those observing Saum to fulfill all the requirements of fasting. One should not conduct himself in such a manner that on the one side he observes Saum and on the other he is fearless of ALLAH. To save himself from ALLAH’s Wrath and to get the reward of the fasts, one must abstain from all sorts of vices, such as cheating, lying, backbiting, and using obscene language. The threat held against such people in this Hadith should make them fear that their Saum will go waste and they would be deprived of its reward. It does not mean that such people should start eating and drinking during Saum but what is intended is that they should save themselves from all kinds of sins so that they may earn the reward of Saum.
[Riyad as Saliheen]
Proven Techniques for a Successful Positive Change in Ramadhaan
The Noble Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) has said,”Almighty Allah says, ‘I treat my servant according to his expectations from Me, and I am with him when he remembers me. If he remembers Me in his heart, I remember him in My heart…. if he walks towards Me, I run unto him.” (Hadith-Qudsi)
Make this Ramadhaan the month of “Change”..Are You Ready for it???
“Change” is the vogue today. “Change” is being chanted by the Presidents to rally up public support; “Change” is being demanded by the masses suffering due to skyrocketing fuel and commodity prices; “Change”, a drastic one indeed, is what we are witnessing with awe in the global weather patterns.
For Muslims, Ramadhaan is the prime time for change. This month dramatically alters our routines and schedules. From tight sleep schedules, to hunger for extended hours, to reduction in consumption of junk foods, to a technology diet; to withdrawal from caffeine addiction, to lengthy standing in Taraweeh prayers at night, to extensive listening to the Quran. What a change indeed!
Beyond Routines and Rituals:
The real change, however, Ramadhaan demands of us is the internal change – a change that positively transforms our lifestyle, character, attitudes, conversations, and habits. Allah has described this change in the month of Ramadhaan as follows: “O you who believe, fasting has been ordained on you as it was decreed upon those before you so that you may adopt Taqwa” (2:183 [ Translation of the Holy Quran 2:183].
Slavery to Ramadhaan?
If our change is limited to outer physical practices only, we become slaves to Ramadhaan, instead of being servants to Ar-Rahman (Allah, the Merciful).
Prophet Muhammad has warned us about those who don’t fast from bad behaviour:
“Allah has no interest in any person’s abstention from eating and drinking, if that person does not give up lying and dishonest actions” (Sahih al-Bukhari)
Ramadhaan Resolutions:
Every Ramadhaan we make resolutions and tell ourselves: “This Ramadhaan will be different. I’m going to change my ______ habit.” “I will give up ………”, “I will take my practice of Islam to the next level”. But how many of us are really able to follow through? Plenty of good intentions, many amazing wishes, but sadly enough, life goes on as usual the morning of Eid.
Ask yourself, how is my fasting benefitting my spiritual connection with Allah? How is my extensive worship in Ramadhaan helping me discipline my tongue (taste and speech), eyes, ears, and habits?
Are you ready to take that first step to transform your bad habits into good ones?
Ways to Kick Bad Habits:
Few things are more demanding than eliminating bad habits, since they are part of our daily routines and personality. It takes days of patience and practice to break old habits.
However, the good news is, Ramadhaan offers a perfect and natural environment for moral training. Interestingly, researches from “positive psychology” (scientific study of successful people) have repeatedly shown it takes between 30 to 40 days to kick a bad habit and develop a new one.
In addition to the physical discipline during the month of Ramadhaan, the increased spiritual exercise and connection with Allah, can transform your habits for life.
Try these proven techniques for a successful positive change in your habits during Ramadhaan and beyond!
1. Acknowledge and Identify your bad habits: First step is to admit you need to change. If you are in a state of denial, you won’t recognize that you have a bad habit to change.
2. Pick a habit for this month: Prioritize your bad habits and focus on one for this month. If you are committed to changing at least one habit, you will see remarkable results, Allah-willing.
3. Realize that it’s in us to change: Don’t believe the old saying, “You can’t teach an old dog new tricks.” You can break a bad habit if you really want to. No one else can change your habits, if you don’t want to.
4. Remember, Allah loves those who commit mistakes and repent: The Noble Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him) said:
“By Him in Whose Hand is my life, if you were not to commit sin, Allah would sweep you out of existence and He would replace (you by) those people who would commit sin and seek forgiveness from Allah, and He would have pardoned them.” (Hadith -Sahih Muslim)
5. Intention & Plan to change: “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail.” A healthy process of change in character requires a gradual pace, which entails planning. Develop concrete milestones to measure your progress.
6. Replace a bad habit with a good one: Completely eliminating a habit is more challenging than replacing it with a more productive habit. Moreover, it’s crucial to replace the lost natural needs, such as the need to socialize and to be entertained with something healthy.
For instance, it’s easier to replace your addiction to TV with a physical workout or reading the Qur’aan or a good Islamic book etc. Interestingly, Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him), the greatest ‘psychologist’ of humanity, illustrated this principle in these words:
“Fear Allah wherever you may be; follow up an evil deed with a good one which will wipe (the former) out, and behave good-naturedly towards people.” (Hadith-At-Tirmidhi).
7. Change your Environment: Resist the negative peer pressure by finding a better company of friends. Collective action to change is very powerful. Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) explained this peer pressure effect with the analogy:
“A good friend and a bad friend are like a perfume-seller and a blacksmith: The perfume-seller might give you some perfume as a gift, or you might buy some from him, or at least you might smell its fragrance. As for the blacksmith, he might singe your clothes, and at the very least you will breathe in the fumes of the furnace.” (Hadith-Sahih al-Bukhari & Muslim)
8. Exercise: Spiritual exercise is important for lasting change. You may not realize that by exerting your yourself in spiritual exercises like the reading of Qur’an and Hadith, fasting, giving charity, Zikr(remembering Allah),Spending time in the Path of Allah etc helps in eliminating a number of bad habits. Through the spiritual light of doing noble deeds, evil ones will gradually be eradicated from your life. Allah says : “Indeed, Salah restrains from Shameful and unjust deeds” (Quran:29:45). A person complained to the Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) about someone who read salaah and also committed theft .The Prophet Muhammad (peace be upon him) said “His salaat will very soon wean him off that sin.’ This shows that the evil habits can be got rid of by adhering to good practises. The doing of good deeds such as remembering Allah cleanses the heart. A clean heart encourages a person to do good deeds and refrains one from evil habits!
Moreover, exercising your will power (struggle to fight temptations) for this month helps you kick all kinds of bad habits and form new good ones. Willpower is like a muscle; the more you exercise it, the more you strengthen it.
9. Think of yourself as a changed, different, new person. This simple psychological shift in your thinking about your own image can do wonders. Tell yourself, “I can’t continue this ill-behaviour. I am better than that. I am stronger. I am wiser.”
10. Reward success: The most fundamental law in all of psychology is the “law of effect.” It simply states that actions followed by rewards are strengthened and likely to recur. Unfortunately, studies show that people rarely use this technique when trying to change personal habits.
Setting up formal or informal rewards for success greatly increases your chances of transforming bad habits into good ones, and is far more effective than punishing yourself for bad habits or setbacks. As Muslims we should also remember that the ultimate reward is Allah’s Pleasure and Paradise in the Hereafter.
11. Get help: Tell someone about your effort to change if it helps. He or she may keep you on track and may offer some good advice. Read books that will encourage you to do virtues actions. Join the various (amaal) programs in your local Musjid. Ladies should endeavour to join their local Taalimi Halqas. There are good and sincere people who are ready to assist. We are not an island- We are an Ummah!
12. Boost your spiritual immune system: By fasting,doing good actions,Itikaaf(seclusion), spending time in the Musjid with the pious friends of Allah or going in the Path of Allah will boost your Imaan which will provide you with internal strength to overcome temptations to reverting to old bad habits.
13. Remind yourself of Death and Hereafter often: “Remember often the terminator (or destroyer) of all the pleasures(i.e. death),” the Messenger of Allah (peace be upon him)once stated. (Hadith-At-Tirmidhi.)
14. Resolve to continue on and follow up:Giving up bad habits or learning good habits requires regular maintenance and determination. It is a long, ongoing process, also known as “Tazkiyyah” in Islamic terminology. It’s more difficult than the first few steps of change. (“How many times have I dieted, for example, only to gain the weight back?”). So ensure that you follow up. Link yourself to a good Allah-fearing Islamic Scholar, make a habit of spending time in the Path of Allah and constantly engage in noble and charitable work.
15. Develop a relapse strategy:
How do you ensure not to return to your bad habit you are trying to change? Some people donate money to a good cause every time they return to sinning or a bad habit. This reminds them of the ‘cost’ of going back to old bad habits. Others try physically demanding acts to deter them from reverting to old ways. For example that if you do___ act than you will keep three fast or pay so much sadaqah(charity) etc
16. Ask Allah for Help (Dua): MOST IMPORTANT!-Make Asking for Allah’s Help an integral part of the overall change process. Ask for Allah’s Help before, during and after every attempt at kicking a bad habit. Do so sincerely, even begging and crying, like a child does when he or she really wants something. Allah is Ever-Willing to Help and to Respond to our needs, but it is us who must take the first step towards Him. Allah will NEVER disappoint us! Allah Ta’ala says “ Ask me, and I will answer your call…” (Translation of the Holy Quran 40:60)
“And whosoever is conscious of Allah and keeps his duty to Him, He (Allah) will make a way for him to get out (from) every (difficulty), and He will provide him from (sources) he could never imagine.” (Translation of the Holy Quran 65:2-3)
So surely you Can do it!!!…Just Trust and Pray to Allah and make that great change this Ramadhaan!
By The E Islam Team
Sunnahs of Fasting
There are many Sunnahs of fasting, including the following:
1 – It is Sunnah if someone insults you to respond in a better manner and say, “I am fasting,” because of the report narrated by al-Bukhaari and Muslim from Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him), that the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Fasting is a paradise so there should be no obscene or offensive talk or behaviour. If a person fights him or insults him, let him say, ‘I am fasting,’ twice. By the One in Whose hand is my soul, the smell coming from the mouth of the fasting person is better before Allaah then the fragrance of musk. [Allaah says:] ‘He gives up his food, drink and desire for My sake. Fasting is for Me and I will reward for it, and a good deed receives the reward of ten like it.’” Al-Bukhaari, no. 1894; Muslim, 1151.
2 – It is Sunnah for the fasting person to eat suhoor, because it was proven in al-Saheehayn that Anas ibn Maalik (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Prophet the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Eat suhoor for in suhoor there is blessing.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1923; Muslim, 1059).
3 – It is Sunnah to delay suhoor because of the report narrated by al-Bukhaari from Anas from Zayd ibn Thaabit (may Allaah be pleased with him) who said: “We ate suhoor with the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), then he got up to pray.” I said: “How much time was there between the adhaan and suhoor?” He said: “The time it takes to recite fifty verses.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1921).
4 – It is Sunnah to hasten to break the fast because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “The people will continue to be fine so long as they hasten to break the fast.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1957; Muslim, 1098).
5 – It is Sunnah to break the fast with fresh dates; if none are available then with dry dates; if none are available then with water – because of the hadeeth of Anas (may Allaah be pleased with him) who said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to break his fast with fresh dates before praying; if there were no (fresh dates) then with dry dates, and if there were no (dried dates) then he would take a few sips of water.
(Nararted by Abu Dawood, no. 2356; al-Tirmidhi, 696; classed as hasan in al-Irwa’, 4/45)
6 – It is Sunnah when breaking the fast to say what is narrated in the hadeeth, which is to say Bismillaah. This is obligatory according to the correct view because the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) enjoined that. The words “Allaahumma laka sumtu wa ‘ala rizqika aftartu, Allaahumma taqabbal minni, innaka antaal-samee’ al-‘aleem (O Allaah, for You I have fasted and with Your provision I have broken my fast, O Allaah accept (this fast) from me for You are the All-Hearing, All-Knowing) are da’eef (weak), as stated by Ibn al-Qayyim (Zaad al-Ma’aad, 2/51). There is also another report: “Dhahaba al-‘zama’ wa abtallat al-‘urooq wa thabata al-ajr in sha Allaah (the thirst is gone, the veins have been moistened and the reward is assured, if Allaah wills).” (Narrated by Abu Dawood, 2357; al-Bayhaqi, 4/239; classed as hasan in al-Irwa’, 4/39).
There are ahaadeeth which speak of the virtue of the du’aa’ of the fasting person, such as the following:
(i) It was narrated from Anas (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Three prayers are not rejected: the prayer of a father, the prayer of a fasting person, and the prayer of a traveler.” Narrated by al-Bayhaqi, 3/345; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in al-Saheeh 1797.
(ii) It was narrated from Abu Umaamah in a marfoo’ report: “Every time the fast is broken Allaah has people whom He ransoms.” Narrated by Ahmad, 21698; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/491.
(iii) It was narrated from Abu Sa’eed al-Khudri in a marfoo’ report: “Allaah ransoms people every day and night – i.e., in Ramadaan – and every day and night the Muslim has a prayer that is answered.” Narrated by al-Bazzaar; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Targheeb, 1/491.
Reward for recitation of the Noble Quran in Ramadhan
::✦:: Easy Deeds with TREMENDOUS Rewards ::✦::
Increase your recitation and understanding of the Glorious Qur’an as each letter that you read/recite/understand will bring you tremendous reward along with peace & success in both worlds!
“Whoever reads a letter from the Book of Allaah, he will have a reward, and this reward will be multiplied by ten. I am not saying that ‘Alif, Laam, Meem’ (a combination of letters frequently mentioned in the Holy Quran) is a letter, rather I am saying that ‘Alif’ is a letter, ‘Laam’ is a letter and ‘Meem’ is a letter.”
[Sunan At-Tirmithee #2910; Al-Albaanee authenticated it in Saheeh Sunan At-Tirmithee (3/164)]
✿✿✿ Common sins we continue during Ramadaan ✿✿✿
Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ♥●•٠·˙CONTROL YOUR NAFS (The Ego): ·٠•●♥ Ƹ̵̡Ӝ̵̨̄Ʒ
✿ UNNECESSARILY BREAKING FAST:- Narrated AbuHurayrah:
The Prophet (peace_be_upon_him) said: If anyone breaks his fast one day in Ramadan without a concession granted to him by Allah, a perpetual fast will not
atone for it.(Abu-Dawud : Book 13 : Hadith 2390)
✿ LEAVING PRAYERS:- The Ramadaan fast, and indeed any righteous deed, is not accepted if you do not pray. That is because not praying constitutes kufr as the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Between a man and shirk and kufr there stands his giving up prayer.” (Narrated by Muslim, 82).
✿ TELLING LIES:- Narrated Abu Huraira: The Prophet said, “whoever does not give up false statements (i.e. telling lies), and evil deeds, and speaking bad words to others, Allah is not in need of his (fasting) leaving his food and drink.” (Sahih BUkhari, Book #73, Hadith #83)
✿ BACK BITING\GOSSIPING:- “O you who believe! Avoid much suspicion, in deeds some suspicions are sins. And spy not neither backbite one another. Would one of you like to eat the flesh of his dead brother? You would hate it (so hate backbiting). And fear Allah, verily, Allah is the one who accepts repentance, Most Merciful” (Al-Hujuraat 49: 12).
✿ WATCHING UNISLAMIC TV PROGRAMS:- Abu Hurayrah said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “It may be that the fasting person gets nothing from his fast apart from hunger, and it may be that the one who prays qiyaam at night may get nothing from his qiyaam but a sleepless night.” Ibn Maajah (1690)
✿ ABUSE:- The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “If any one of you is fasting, let him not utter obscenities or act in an ignorant manner, and if anyone insults him or wants to fight him, let him say, I am fasting.” Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1894; Muslim 1151.
This Ramadan let us try to keep a strong tab on our habit of backbiting. Let us train ourselves to avoid this grave sin which has become a part of every gathering and group. backbiting, lying, arguing, shouting, foul language, porn, hanging out with males, modernization, disrespecting parents, shouting at elders, treating youngsters rudely, immodesty etc……
(¯`v´¯)¸
`•.¸.•❤•.The worst part is SHAITAAN has trained us so well to be a slave to these evils that we have stopped even considering these sins as evil. ♥¸.•❤
Planning for Ramadhan
Have you noticed that each year, Ramadan goes by faster and faster? Personally, I can remember details of Ramadan 11 years ago better in some ways than of Ramadan last year. It’s frightening.
One way to make the most of Ramadan is to plan beforehand. Here are nine reasons why you should plan for Ramadan:
■Reason 1: To be in “Ramadan mode”
By planning for Ramadan before it arrives, you put your mind in “Ramadan mode”. If you plan, you will mentally prepare for it, and it will force you to see it as the special month it is outside of your regular routine the rest of the year.
■ Reason 2: To adjust your schedule
By planning in advance, you can adjust your work, sleep and meal schedules in such a way as to make time for Suhoor, Iftar, etc. That means, for instance, that if you normally go to bed at midnight, in Ramadan you would sleep earlier in order to get up early for Suhoor. Or if you usually study late, you can instead sleep earlier and start studying after Suhoor in the early morning hours. Planning in advance allows you the luxury to make time for the change in schedule that Ramadan brings.
■ Reason 3: You can plan Ramadan family time
Is dinner time usually an individual affair in your home, as opposed to a time the whole family eats together? Are Friday evenings the time every family member goes off to his/her own social activities? Planning in advance can change this at least in Ramadan. Calling a family meeting about a month in advance, explaining the importance of Ramadan, its implications for the family and the need to eat Iftar together when possible as well as to attend Tarawih prayers, for example, will allow all family members to adjust their work and school schedules accordingly. That will, Insha Allah, make Ramadan a blessing not just to every person in the family, but to the family as a whole.
■ Reason 4: To make the menu
While Ramadan may mean extra Ibadah to some of the brothers, it usually means extra cooking for most of the sisters. Ramadan’s blessings are for men and women. Making a Ramadan menu for Iftar and meals, and working out when you want to invite relatives, neighbors and friends for Iftar will give sisters the opportunity to catch Tarawih and various other advantageous Ibadat instead of spending Ramadan’s 29 or 30 days stuck in the kitchen. (And by the way, brothers, helping out with cooking or cleaning was a practice of the Prophet, peace and blessings be upon him-maybe this is a way you can increase your Sawab [rewards] this month).
■ Reason 5 : You can plan an Iftar at your home
You may have eaten fantastic Iftars at friends’ homes last year. This year, open your doors. There is blessing in feeding a fasting person other than yourself and your family. Planning in advance gives you the luxury of calling friends over the month before and setting a date, so you can “grab” them before others get an opportunity to.
■ Reason 6: To make a travel schedule
Do you know a fellow Muslim in your neighborhood who wants to get to the mosque for Tarawih every night but doesn’t have a car? Or do you look at your work schedule and realize you have to work overtime near the end of Ramdan, so your family will miss out on Tarawih at the mosque the last ten nights of Ramadan? Planning in advance helps you work out your daily or weekly travel schedule to attend Tarawih prayers at the mosque, or even a trip for Iftar at a friend’s place who may life farther away. It also helps ease the burden of transportation in winter. Maybe you can start a car pool? Since you have the time before Ramadan begins, you can work this out with neighbors and friends.
■ Reason 7: To do good at high Sawab times
Being generous is definitely an Islamic merit, but being generous in Ramadan is even more highly rewarded. Match Ibadat with specific times that carry more reward. Prepare to do Itifkaf, increase asking Allah for forgiveness in the last ten nights of Ramadan. Plan to give increased Sadaqa this month. Plan to visit that relative you may have not seen for months, if not years. Thinking about and arranging to do these things and finding other ways of gaining the pleasure of Allah in Ramadan will Insha Allah help you benefit more from it.
■ Reason 8: You can squeeze in Eid shopping
Planning in advance helps you think about all of those things you wanted to do in time for the end of Ramadan or Eid last year but couldn’t. Maybe you wanted to go Eid shopping for gifts for family and friends in the last week of Ramadan but were too busy with the last ten nights of Ramadan. No problem. This year, you decide to go in the third week of Ramadan instead.
■ Reason 9: You can plan Dawa activities during Ramadan
Some Muslims have gone to soup kitchens and made meals during Ramadan, while they were fasting. Not only will, Insha Allah, they be rewarded, but this is a great Dawa opportunity to explain what Ramadan and Islam are about. Planning in advance for such an activity gives you the time to call up a soup kitchen in your area, explain what you want to do, and get your act together. You can also plan school Dawa activities in Ramadan by planning in advance, by meeting with the principal or teacher beforehand, preparing a presentation, etc.
Prepare for Ramadan
Many of us have been counting the days remaining up to the holy month of Ramadan. Five days, four, three, two and the next thing you know here it is. For a believer the name of this month “Ramadan” gives the thought of joy, rewards and a feeling of Allah’s mercy. Truly, this is a season that should be awaited for. Anticipations and emotions for this month are not sufficient. This holy month requires action and activity. It is about altering our timetables and schedules, it demands us to train ourselves to attain Taqwa (fear of Allah or devotion to Him) which in turn, is the element to carry us successfully through the ongoing journey towards the hereafter (akhirah).
But let us ask ourselves have we really prepared for this month? Are we ready to dedicate more time for our spiritual revival ?
What are the rewards of good deeds in the month of Ramadan? The reward of every Fardh (compulsory) act is multiplied seventy times while every Nafl (optional) act earns the reward of one Fardh out of Ramadan. (Ibn Khuzaymah). It is important to understand the latter aspect in its proper perspective. Tahajjud (Nafl Salah in the last third of the night) is an extremely great ibadah (worship). Great virtues have been narrated for this Salah. However, a lifetime of tahajjud cannot equal one Fardh of Fajr Salah! Yet in the month of Ramadan Almighty Allah grants us the reward of a Fardh action for every Nafl performed.
The fish in the sea seek forgiveness for those fasting until they break their fast . Allah decorates His Jannah (Paradise) every day and then says, “The time is near when My pious servants shall cast aside the great trials and come to me.” (Musnad Ahmed)
When Ramadan arrives, the gates of Paradise are flung open, the doors of the Hellfire are closed and the Shayateen are imprisoned. (Bukhari)
Fasting
All good deeds are for the one who renders them, but fasting. Fasting is exclusively for me (Allah). (Bukhari)
The odour of the mouth of a fasting person is sweeter to Allah than the fragrance of musk.(Bukhari)
Fasting is a shield, as long as the fasting person does not tear it up (by disobedience) (Nasaee).
Iftar:
Not a single prayer made by a fasting person at the time of breaking the fast is rejected. (Ibn Majah)
The Nights of Ramadan:
Laylatul Qadr (The Night of Power):
Whoever stands in prayer and worship in the night of power with Iman and with sincere hope of gaining reward , all his previous sins are forgiven. ( Muslim)
Look for the night of power among the odd numbered nights of the last ten days of Ramadan. (Mishkat)
I’etikaf:
The Prophet (p.b.u.h.) observed I’etikaf for ten days every year in the month of Ramadan. In the year he passed away he observed it for twenty days. (Bukhari)
The Last Night Of Ramadan:
On the last night of Ramadan the fasting Muslims are forgiven. (Musnad Ahmed)
Conclusion:
It can be well comprehended from the above that during this month of Ramadan, Almighty Allah makes it easy for us to acquire His blessings, mercy and forgiveness. There can be no better time to attain this than this blessed month. All that is required on our part is to create in our hearts the desire, ambition, devotion, zeal, eagerness and that we exert increased efforts to acquire the pleasure of Almighty Allah.
While one should engage to the maximum in good deeds, the purpose of Ramadan must be kept foremost in mind, which is to acquire Taqwa. Thus together with the maximum amount of righteous actions one must totally refrain from all sins. We should ensure that no act of disobedience is committed. This abstinence in itself is a worship. One month of strictly conducting oneself in this manner will Insha-Allah have the effect of enabling one to live the next eleven months in a similar manner in the complete obedience of Allah. Thus, can we afford to waste this time? Can we still have time for “loafing?” Is it possible for a person who values Ramadan to spend hours eating? or loitering around after taraweeh feasts and gatherings?, or have time for any other idle pursuits? Can we afford to spend valuable time glued to the airwaves listening to the opinions and views of one and all, whereas that time could have been used to at least recite the Holy Quran or send Durood upon our beloved Prophet (p.b.u.h.)? And entertainment? How can it be possible? The last thing that any Muslim who values Ramadan should be bothered about is, who somewhere in the world is whacking a little red ball all over a field or who is kicking a ball between two posts! Let alone comedy or other shows!
Let us really make this Ramadan a profitable one that brings change in our life. We leave you with a quotation of the honorable Mufti Zubair Bayat:
All the “T’s” of Ramadan must be kept in mind so that when Ramadan comes, “everything is to the T!”. These “T’s” are: Tilawah, Tahajjud, Taraweeh, Tasbeehat, Tadharru’ (fervent Dua), Tatawwu’ (Nafl Ibadah), Tasahhur (eating Sehri/Suhoor), Taubah (repentance), Tawadhu (humility) and Tafakkur (contemplation). May Almighty Allah make this Ramadan a turning point in the life of the long-suffering Ummah. Aameen.
Jami’yyatul Ulama Canada
The Voluntary fasting and the days which fasting has been prohibited
552. Narrated Abû Qatâda Al‑Ansâri رضى الله عنه: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم was asked about the fast on the day of ‘Arafa, whereupon he said: “It expiates the sins of the preceding year and the coming year.” And he was asked about fasting on the day of ‘Ashurâ’, whereupon he said: “It expiates the sins of the preceding year.” He was then asked about fasting on Monday, whereupon he said: “That is the day on which I was born, on it I was commissioned with Prophethood, and on it (the Qur’ân) was revealed to me.” [Reported by Muslim].
553. Narrated Abû Ayub Al‑Ansâri رضى الله عنه: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “He who fasts Ramadân, then follows it with six (days of fasting) from Shawwal, it will be (in terms of rewards) as if he has fasted a whole year.” [Reported by Muslim].
554. Narrated Abû Sa‘îd Al‑Khudri رضى الله عنه: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “No slave (of Allâh) will fast for a day while engaged in Jihâd, without Allâh removing the Hell-firea distance of seventy years from his face for that day.” [Agreed upon, and the wording is Muslim’s].
555. Narrated ‘Aisha رضى الله عنها: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم used to fast to such an extent that we thought he would never break his fast, and he would go without fasting to such an extent that we thought he would never fast. I never saw Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم fast a complete month except in Ramadân, and I never saw him fast more in any month than in Sha‘bân. [Agreed upon, and the wording is that of Muslim].
556. Narrated Abû Dhar رضى الله عنه: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم commanded us to fast three days in the month; on the thirteenth, the fourteenth and the fifteenth.” [Reported by At‑Tirmidhi and An‑Nasâ’i; Ibn Hibbân graded it Sahih].
557. Narrated Abû Huraira رضى الله عنه: Allah’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “It is not lawful for a woman to fast (optional fasting), when her husband is present, except with his permission. [Agreed upon; The wording is that of Al‑Bukhâri]. Abû Dâ’ud added: “other than Ramadân.”
558. Narrated Abû Sa‘îd Al‑Khudri رضى الله عنه: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم forbade fasting on two days, the day of Al‑Fitr (breaking the fast of Ramadân) and the day of Al‑Adha (offering sacrifices). [Agreed upon].
559. Narrated Nubaisha Al‑Hudhali رضى الله عنه: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “The days of At‑Tashrîq are days of eating, drinking and the remembrance of Allâh, the Great and Glorious.” [Reported by Muslim].
560. Narrated ‘Aisha and Ibn ‘Umar رضى الله عنهم: Nobody was allowed to fast on the days of At‑Tashriq except those who could not afford the Al‑Hady (sacrifices). [Reported by Al‑Bukhâri].
561. Narrated Abû Huraira رضى الله عنه: The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “Do not single out the night (preceding) Friday –from among the nights – for prayer; and do not single out Friday -from among the days – for fasting, unless it occurs during a day of fasting, which one of you normally observes.” [Reported by Muslim].
562. Narrated (Abû Huraira) رضى الله عنه: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “None of you should fast on Friday, unless he fasts (it together with) a day before it or a day after it.” [Agreed upon].
563. Narrated (Abû Huraira) رضى الله عنه: Allah’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “When the (month of) Sha‘bân is halfway through, do not fast.” [Reported by Al‑Khamsa. Ahmad considered it Munkar (rejected)].
564. Narrated As‑Sammâ’ bint Busr رضى الله عنها: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “Do not fast on a Saturday except what has been made obligatory on you; and if one of you can get nothing but a grape‑skin or a twig from a tree, he should chew it.” [Reported by Al‑Khamsa, and its narrators are reliable, but it is Mudtarib (narrated with irreconcilable contradictions in the chain). Mâlik rejected it and Abû Dâ’ud said, ‘It is Mansûkh (abrogated).’]
565. Narrated Umm Salama رضى الله عنها: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم used to fast mostly on Saturday and Sunday, and he used to say, “They are festival days for the polytheists, and I want to act contrary to them.” [Reported by An‑Nasâ’i. Ibn Khuzaima graded it Sahih and this is his wording].
566. Narrated Abû Huraira رضى الله عنه: the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم prohibited fasting on the day of ‘Arafa at ‘Arafât. [Reported by Al‑Khamsa except At‑Tirmidhi; Ibn Khuzaima and Al‑Hâkim authenticated it, and Al‑‘Uqaili rejected it].
567. Narrated ‘Abdullah bin ‘Umar رضى الله عنهما: Allah’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “He who observes perpetual fasting, has not fasted.” [Agreed upon]. Muslim reported it from Abû Qatada with the wording: “He has not fasted nor broken his fast.”
AL-I‘TIKAF (seclusion in the mosque for worship) and offering prayers during the Nights of Ramadhan
- 568. Narrated Abû Huraira رضى الله عنه: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “He who prays during the night in Ramadân with faith and seeking his reward from Allâh will have his past sins forgiven.” [Agreed upon].
- 569. Narrated ‘Aisha رضى الله عنها: When the last ten days of Ramadân began, Allah’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم used to tighten his waist belt (i.e. occupy himself with the worship of Allâh), stay awake all night, and awaken his family (for night prayers). [Agreed upon].
- 570. Narrated (‘Aisha) رضى الله عنها: When the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم intended I’tikaf (seclusion in the mosque for worship), he prayed the dawn prayer and then entered his place of seclusion. [Agreed upon].
- 571. Narrated (‘Aisha) رضى الله عنها: The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم used to engage in I’tikaf (seclusion in the mosque for worship) during the last ten days of Ramadân till Allâh, Who is Great and Glorious took his soul (to His Mercy). Then, his wives engaged in I’tikaf after him (i.e. after his death). [Agreed upon].
- 572. Narrated (‘Aisha) رضى الله عنها: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم would put his head in my room – while he was in the mosque – and I would then comb it. And he would never enter the house except for a need, if he was in I’tikaf (seclusion).[Agreed upon; the wording is Al‑Bukhâri’s].
- 573. Narrated (‘Aisha) رضى الله عنها: The Sunna for one who is observing I’tikaf (seclusion in a mosque for worship) is not to visit a sick person, nor attend a funeral, nor touch nor fondle a woman (one’s wife), nor go out for any need, except for that which is an absolute necessity. There is no I’tikaf without fasting, and no I’tikaf except in a congregational mosque. [Abû Dâ’ud reported it, and its narrators are acceptable, except that the strongest opinion is that the end of it (the last sentence) is Mawqûf (saying of a companion, i.e. ‘Aisha)].
- 574. Narrated Ibn ‘Abbâs رضى الله عنهما: The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said: “Fasting is not incumbent on one engaged in I’tikaf (seclusion in the mosque for worship) unless he imposes it on himself.” [Reported by Ad‑Dâraqutni and Al‑Hâkim. The strongest opinion is that it is also Mawqûf (saying of a companion, i.e. Ibn ‘Abbas)].
- 575. Narrated Ibn ‘Umar رضى الله عنهما: Some of the Prophet’s صلى الله عليه وسلم companions saw in their dreams that Lailat-ul-Qadr was among the last seven nights (of Ramadân). Hence, Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “I see that your dreams agree regarding the last seven nights. Therefore, whoever is to seek it, should do so during the last seven nights.” [Agreed upon].
- 576. Narrated Mu‘âwiya bin Abû Sufyân رضى الله عنهما : With regard to Lailat‑ul‑Qadr, the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “It is the twenty-seventh night.” [Reported by Abû Dâ’ud. The strongest opinion is that it is Mawqûf (saying of a companion, i.e. Mu’awiya].
Forty different sayings were mentioned regarding the exact night of Lailat‑ul‑Qadr and I mentioned them in Fath Al‑Bâri [Explanation of Sahih al-Bukhari, by al-Hafiz Ibn Hajar].
- 577. Narrated ‘Aisha رضى الله عنها: I said, “O Allâh’s Messenger, tell me, if I know which night is Lailat‑ul‑Qadr, what (supplication) should I say in it?’ He said, “Say, O Allâh, You are forgiving and love forgiveness, so forgive me.” [Reported by the Al‑Khamsa except Abû Dâ’ud; At‑Tirmidhi and Al‑Hâkim authenticated it].
- 578. Narrated Abû Sa‘îd Al‑Khudri رضى الله عنه: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “Do not set out on a journey except to three mosques; i.e., Al‑Masjid Al‑Harâm (at Makka), my Masjid (at Al‑Madîna) and Al‑Masjid Al‑Aqsâ (Mosque of Jerusalem).” [Agreed upon].
Sahih Hadiths about Ramadhan [Fasting]
527. Narrated Abû Huraira رضى الله عنه: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “Do not fast for a day or two days before Ramadân except a person who is in the habit of observing a particular fast; he may fast on that day.”[Agreed upon].
528. Narrated ‘Ammâr bin Yâsir رضى الله عنهما: He who fasts on a day about which there is doubt (concerning the start of Ramadân) has disobeyed Abul-Qâsim صلى الله عليه وسلم .[Al‑Bukhâri reported it Mu‘allaq (broken chain from his side), while Al‑Khamsa reported it Mausul (unbroken chain) and Ibn Hibbân graded it Sahih].
529. Narrated Ibn ‘Umar رضى الله عنهما: I heard Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم saying, “Fast when you see the new moon, and break your fast when you see it; but if the sky is cloudy, calculate (the month as 30 days).”[Agreed upon]. Muslim has: “If it is cloudy, calculate (the month as) thirty days.” Al‑Bukhâri has: “Complete the number (of days) as thirty.”Al-Bukhari reported the Hadith of Abû Huraira رضى الله عنه : “Complete the number of (the month of) Sha‘bân as thirty days.”
530. Narrated Ibn ‘Umar رضى الله عنهما: The people tried to sight the new moon, so I informed the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم that I had seen it, so he fasted and commanded the people to fast.[Abû Dâ’ud reported it and Al‑Hâkim and Ibn Hibbân graded it Sahih].
531. Narrated Ibn ‘Abbâs رضى الله عنهما: A bedouin came to the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم and said, “I have seen the new moon (of Ramadân).” He asked, “Do you testify that nothing is worthy of worship except Allâh?” He replied, “Yes.” He then asked, “Do you testify that Muhammad is Allâh’s Messenger?” He replied, “Yes.” He then said, “Bilâl, announce to the people that they should fast tomorrow.”[Reported by Al‑Khamsa. Ibn Khuzaima and Ibn Hibbân graded it Sahih; An‑Nasâ’i held that the stronger view is that it is Mursal (missing link after the Taabi’i)].
532.Narrated Hafsa رضى الله عنها , Mother of the Believers: The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “The fast of one who does not make intention to fast before dawn is not accepted” [Reported by Al‑Khamsa. At‑Tirmidhi and An‑Nasa’i are inclined toward the opinion that it is Mauquf (a saying of Hafsa). Ibn Khuzaima and Ibn Hibban authenticated it as Marfu‘ (attributed to the Prophet)] Ad-Dâraqutni has: “There is no fast for the one who does not make the intention to fast during the night.”
533. Narrated ‘Aisha رضى الله عنها: The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم came to visit me one day and asked, “Do you have anything (to eat)?” I said, “No.” He said, “Then I am fasting.” Then he came to me another day and I said, “I had been given a present of some Hais (a mixture of dates and ghee). He said, “Show it to me, for I had began the day fasting.” Then he ate. [Reported by Muslim].
534. Narrated Sahl bin Sa‘d رضى الله عنه: Allah’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “The people will continue to be on the right path as long as they hasten in the breaking of the fast.” [Agreed upon].
At‑Tirmidhi reports from the Hadith of Abû Huraira (رضى الله عنه) from the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم, who said that Allâh عزوجل said,“The most beloved to Me of my slaves is the one who hastens most in breaking the fast.”
535. Narrated Anas bin Mâlik رضى الله عنه: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “Take a meal (just) before dawn, for there is a blessing in Sahur (taking a meal) at that time.” [Agreed upon].
536. Narrated Salmân bin ‘Aamir Ad‑Dabbî رضى الله عنه: The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “When one of you breaks his fast, he should do so with some dates; but if he can not get any, he should break his fast with water, for it is purifying.” [Reported by Al‑Khamsa. Ibn Khuzaima, Ibn Hibbân and Al‑Hâkim graded it Sahih].
537. Narrated Abû Huraira رضى الله عنه: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم forbade continuous fasting. A man from among the Muslims said, “You fast continuously, O Messenger of Allâh!” He replied, “Which one of you is like me? During the night my Rabb (Allah) gives me food and drink.” When they refused to stop the continuous fasting, he fasted with them for a day and then another. Then, they saw the moon. He then said, “If the new moon had not appeared, I would have made you fast more (in this way).” It is as though it would serve as a punishment for them, when they refused to stop. [Agreed upon].
538. Narrated (Abû Huraira) رضى الله عنه: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “Whoever does not abandon falsehood and action in accordance with it and foolishness, Allâh has no need that he should abandon his food and drink.” [Reported by Al‑Bukhâri, and Abû Dâ’ud and the wording is his].
539. Narrated ‘Aisha رضى الله عنها: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم used to kiss and fondle while he was fasting, but he was the one among you who had most control over his sexual desire. [Agreed upon]. The wording is Muslim’s, and in another narration, he has the addition: “during Ramadân.”
540. Narrated Ibn ‘Abbâs رضى الله عنهما: The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم had himself cupped when he was wearing the Ihrâm (during Hajj or ‘Umrah) and had himself cupped when he was fasting. [Reported by al-Bukhari].
541. Narrated Shaddâd bin Aus رضى الله عنه: The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم came across a man in Al‑Baqi‘ who was being cupped in Ramadân. He said, “The one who cups and the one who is cupped have broken their fast.” [Reported by Al‑Khamsa except At‑Tirmidhi. Ahmad, Ibn Khuzaima and Ibn Hibbân graded it Sahih].
542. Narrated Anas رضى الله عنه: The first time when cupping – for one who is fasting – was disapproved was when: Ja‘far bin Abû-Tâlib had himself cupped while he was fasting; the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم came across him and said, “Both of these have broken their fast.” Afterwards, the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم allowed cupping for one who is fasting. Anas used to have himself cupped when he was fasting. [Ad‑Dâraqutni reported it and declared it to be strong].
543. Narrated ‘Aisha رضى الله عنها: The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم applied kohl in Ramadân while he was fasting. [Reported by Ibn Mâjah through a weak chain of narrators]. At‑Tirmidhi said, “There is nothing authentic on this subject.”
544. Narrated Abû Huraira رضى الله عنه: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “Whoever forgets while fasting and eats or drinks should complete his fast, for it is Allâh who has fed him and given him drink.” [Agreed upon].
Al‑Hâkim has, “Whoever breaks his fast forgetfully does not have to make-up for that fast (al-Qadaa), nor expiate (al-Kaffaara) for it.” And the narration is authentic.
545. Narrated Abû Huraira رضى الله عنه: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “Whoever has a sudden attack of vomiting (while fasting), does not have to make-up the fast (al-Qadaa), but whoever vomits intentionally must make up the day.” [Reported by Al‑Khamsa; Ahmad found it defective and Ad‑Dâraqutni graded it strong].
546. Narrated Jâbir bin ‘Abdullâh رضى الله عنهما: Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم departed to Makka in Ramadân in the year of the conquest. He and the people fasted till he came to Kurâ‘ Al‑Ghamim. He then called for a cup of water which he raised till the people looked at it, and then he drank. He was told afterwards that some of the people had continued to fast, and he said, “Those are the disobedient ones; those are the disobedient ones.”
In another narration : “It was said to him: The people have found the fast difficult, and are waiting for what you will do.” He then called for a cup of water after the ‘Asr prayer and drank. [Reported by Muslim].
547. Narrated Hamza bin ‘Amr Al‑Aslamî رضى الله عنه: He said, “O Allâh’s Messenger! I find myself strong enough to fast while travelling, so is there any sin upon me (if I fast)?” Allâh’s Messenger صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “It is a permission given by Allâh and whoever acts upon it has done well. And whoever desires to fast would not be guilty of sin.” [Reported by Muslim. Its basic meaning is found in Al‑Bukhâri and Muslim from ‘Aisha’s report that Hamza bin ‘Amr had asked].
548. Narrated Ibn ‘Abbâs رضى الله عنهما : Permission was given for an old man to break his fast (in Ramadân) and feed a poor for every day, and no make-up (al-Qadaa) is required of him. [Reported by Ad‑Dâraqutni and Al‑Hâkim both of whom authenticated it].
549. Narrated Abû Huraira رضى الله عنه: A man came to the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم and said, “O Messenger of Allâh, I am ruined.” He asked him, “What has ruined you?” He replied, “I had intercourse with my wife during Ramadân.” He then asked him, “Can you get a slave to free?” He said, “No.” He asked, “Can you fast two consecutive months?” He said, “No.” He asked, “Can you provide food for sixty poor people?” He said, “No.” He then sat down. Meanwhile an ‘Araq [a basket] containing [30 Saa’ of] dates was brought to the Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم. He said, “Give this as Sadaqa.” The man said, “Am I to give to one who is poorer than we are? There is no family – between the two mountains of al-Madina – more in need of it than mine.” The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم thereupon laughed till his premolar teeth appeared. He then said, “Go and feed your family with it.” [Reported by As‑Sab‘a and the wording is that of Muslim].
550. Narrated ‘Aisha and Umm Salama رضى الله عنهما: The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم used to get up at dawn while in a state of Janâba (sexual impurity). Then, he would take a bath and fast. [Agreed upon]. And Muslim added in the Hadith of Umm-Salama: “He would not make up (the fast).”
551. Narrated ‘Aisha رضى الله عنها: The Prophet صلى الله عليه وسلم said, “Whoever dies while some fast is due from him (which is unfulfilled), his heir must fast on his behalf.” [Agreed upon].
Fasting on the month of Ramadhan
Those who Fast will be Called from the Gate of al-Rayyaan
From Islam Q&A, by Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid
Praise be to Allah.
Firstly:
Allaah has enjoined upon the Muslims fasting the month of Ramadaan, and He has promised a great reward to those who fast. Because the virtue of fasting is so great, Allaah has not specified the reward for it, rather He said – in a hadeeth qudsi –
“… except for fasting, for it is for Me, and I shall reward for it.”
The virtues of the month of Ramadaan are many. For example, that which Allaah has promised those who fast, namely the gate of al-Rayyaan. This is the name which was narrated in the hadeeth whose authenticity is agreed upon. Sahl (may Allaah be pleased with him) said that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said:
“In Paradise there is a gate called al-Rayyaan, through which those who used to fast will enter on the Day of Resurrection, and no one but they will enter it. It will be said, ‘Where are those who fasted?’ They will get up, and none will enter it but them. When they have entered, it will be locked, and no one else will enter.” (Sahih Al-Bukhaari, 1763; Muslim, 1947).
Among the ahaadeeth which explain the reward for fasting are the following:
It was narrated from Abu Salamah that Abu Hurayrah said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘Whoever fasts Ramadaan out of faith and seeking reward, his previous sins will be forgiven.’” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, al-Eemaan, 37).
It was narrated that Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: “The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: ‘Allaah says: “Every deed of the son of Adam is for him, except for fasting; it is for Me and I shall reward for it.” Fasting is a shield and when one of you is fasting he avoid sexual relations with his wife and quarreling. If somebody should fight or quarrel with him, he should say, ‘I am fasting.’ By the One in Whose hand is my soul, the unpleasant smell coming out from the mouth of a fasting person is better in the sight of Allaah than the smell of musk. The fasting person will have two moments of joy: one when he breaks his fast, and the other when he meets his Lord; then he will be pleased because of his fasting.’”
(Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1771)
Secondly:
It is known that Paradise has many gates, because Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“Adn (Eden) Paradise (everlasting Gardens), which they shall enter and (also) those who acted righteously from among their fathers, and their wives, and their offspring. And angels shall enter unto them from every gate.”
[Translation of the Holy Quran Surrah, al-Ra’d 13:23]
“And those who kept their duty to their Lord (Al-Muttaqoon – the pious) will be led to Paradise in groups till when they reach it, and its gates will be opened (before their arrival for their reception) and its keepers will say: Salaamun ‘Alaykum (peace be upon you)! You have done well, so enter here to abide therein.”
[Translation of the Holy Quran Surrah,al-Zumar 39:73]
In the saheeh ahaadeeth it says that there are eight gates:
It was narrated from Sahl ibn Sa’d (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “In Paradise there are eight gates, among which is a gate called al-Rayyaan, which none will enter but those who fast.”
(Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 3017).
It was narrated from ‘Ubaadah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever bears witness that there is no god but Allaah alone, with no partner or associate, and that Muhammad is His slave and Messenger, and that ‘Eesa (Jesus) is the slave of Allaah and His Messenger, and a word which Allaah bestowed on Maryam and a spirit created by Him (cf. al-Nisa’ 4:171), and that Paradise is true and Hell is true, will have the right to be admitted by Allaah to Paradise through whichever of the eight gates he wishes, because of his good deeds.” (Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 3180; Muslim, 41)
One of the bounties that Allaah has bestowed upon this ummah is that He opens all the gates of Paradise during the month of Ramadaan, not just one gate. Whoever says that there is a gate in Paradise called Baab al-Radwaan has to produce evidence for that.
It was narrated from Abu Hurayrah (may Allaah be pleased with him) that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “When Ramadaan begins, the gates of Paradise are opened and the gates of Hell are closed, and the devils are chained up.”
(Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 3035; Muslim 1793)
We ask Allaah to make us among those who will enter Paradise. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad.
♥ Ramadaan ♥
” The month of Ramadân in which was revealed the Qur’ân, a guidance for mankind and clear proofs for the guidance and the criterion (between right and wrong).” [Translation of the Holy Quran 2:185]
Fasting on the 9th and 10th of Muharam
★ Why should we fast on 10th of Muharram?
عَنْ ابْنِ عَبَّاسٍ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُمَا قَالَ : قَدِمَ النَّبِيُّ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ الْمَدِينَةَ فَرَأَى الْيَهُودَ تَصُومُ يَوْمَ عَاشُورَاءَ فَقَالَ مَا هَذَا قَالُوا هَذَا يَوْمٌ صَالِحٌ هَذَا يَوْمٌ نَجَّى اللَّهُ بَنِي إِسْرَائِيلَ مِنْ عَدُوِّهِمْ فَصَامَهُ مُوسَى قَالَ فَأَنَا أَحَقُّ بِمُوسَى مِنْكُمْ فَصَامَهُ وَأَمَرَ بِصِيَامِهِ
(صحيح البخاري : 1865)
English Translation:
Narrated Ibn ‘Abbas ( رضي الله عنه ): The Prophet ( صلى الله عليه وسلم) came to Madina and saw the Jews fasting on the day of Ashoora(10th day of Muharram). He asked them about that. They replied, “This is a good day, the day on which Allah rescued Bani Israel from their enemy. So, Moses fasted this day.” The Prophet ( صلى الله عليه وسلم)said, “We have more claim over Moses than you.” So, the Prophet ( صلى الله عليه وسلم)fasted on that day and ordered (the Muslims) to fast (on that day). (Sahih Bukhari 1865).
Urdu Translation:
سیدنا ابن عباس رضی اللہ عنہ کہتے ہیں کہ جب نبی کریم صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم مدینہ میں تشریف لائے تو آپ صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے یہودیوں کو دیکھا کہ وہ عاشورے کے دن روزہ رکھتے ہیں تو آپ صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے ان سے پوچھا کہ: “ یہ کیا (وجہ ہے کہ تم عاشورے کا روزہ رکھتے ہو؟)۔” انھوں نے کہا کہ یہ ایک عمدہ دن ہے، یہ وہ دن ہے کہ جس میں اللہ تعالیٰ نے بنی اسرائیل کو ان کے دشمن سے نجات دی تھی لہٰذا موسیٰ علیہ السلام اس دن روزہ رکھتے تھے۔ تو نبی کریم صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے فرمایا: “ میں تم سے زیادہ موسیٰ علیہ السلام کا حقدار ہوں۔” پس آپ صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے اس دن کا روزہ رکھا اور اس کے رکھنے کا حکم دیا۔
(صحيح البخاري : 1865)
★ Fasting on 9th of Muharram:
روى عَبْدَ اللَّهِ بْنَ عَبَّاسٍ رَضِيَ اللَّهُ عَنْهُمَا قال : حِينَ صَامَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ يَوْمَ عَاشُورَاءَ وَأَمَرَ بِصِيَامِهِ قَالُوا يَا رَسُولَ اللَّهِ إِنَّهُ يَوْمٌ تُعَظِّمُهُ الْيَهُودُ وَالنَّصَارَى فَقَالَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ فَإِذَا كَانَ الْعَامُ الْمُقْبِلُ إِنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ صُمْنَا الْيَوْمَ التَّاسِعَ قَالَ فَلَمْ يَأْتِ الْعَامُ الْمُقْبِلُ حَتَّى تُوُفِّيَ رَسُولُ اللَّهِ صَلَّى اللَّهُ عَلَيْهِ وَسَلَّمَ . رواه مسلم 1916
Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Abbaas ( رضی اللہ تعالی عنہما ) said: When the Messenger of Allaah ( صلى الله عليه وسلم) fasted on the day of ‘Ashoora (10th day of Muharram)and told the people to fast, they said, “O Messenger of Allaah, this is a day that is venerated by the Jews and Christians.” The Messenger of Allaah ( صلى الله عليه وسلم) said, “Next year, if Allaah wills, we will fast on the ninth day.” But by the time the following year came, the Messenger of Allaah ( صلى الله عليه وسلم) had passed away. ( Muslim, 1916. )
عبداللہ بن عباس رضی اللہ تعالی عنہما بیان کرتے ہيں کہ : جب نبی مکرم صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم نے یوم عاشوراء کا روزہ خود بھی رکھا اوردوسروں کو بھی اس کا حکم دیا تو صحابہ کرام انہیں کہنے لگے یھودی اورعیسائي تو اس دن کی تعظیم کرتے ہیں ۔
تورسول اکرم صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم فرمانے لگے : آئندہ برس ہم ان شاء اللہ نو محرم کا روزہ رکھیں گے ، ابن عباس رضي اللہ تعالی کہتے ہیں کہ آئندہ برس آنے سے قبل ہی رسول اکرم صلی اللہ علیہ وسلم فوت ہوگۓ ۔
صحیح مسلم حدیث نمبر ( 1916 )
What is the wisdom behind fasting the ninth as well as the tenth?
The answer is:
Al-Nawawi (may Allaah have mercy on him) said: The scholars among our companions and others said that there are several reasons for recommending fasting on the ninth day (Tasoo’a’):
1 – The intention behind it is to be different from the Jews who limit their fasting to the tenth day. This was narrated from Ibn ‘Abbaas.
2 – The intention was to join the fast of ‘Ashoora’ to another day, just as it is not allowed to fast on a Friday on its own [but it is allowed if one fasts the day before or the day after as well].
3 – The idea is to be on the safe side and make sure one is fasting on the tenth, in case the moon sighting was not accurate and what people think is the ninth is actually the tenth.
Worshiping only Allah (swt)!!!
Worshiping Only Allah (SWT)
The purpose of Mankind, the sole reason behind our creation, is to worship Allah Alone: “And I created not the Jinns and men except that they should worship Me (Alone).” [51: 56]
Worship has been defined by Ibn Taymiyyah as being: “a term which comprises everything that Allah (s.w.t) loves and approves of from the apparent and hidden sayings and deeds.”
The main condition for such worship to be accepted however, is that they must be solely made for the Sake of Allah, and no one else. This is the essence of Tawheed, and the Kalima itself, which declares boldly that there is no deity worthy of worship except for Allah.
And Du’a (supplication) is undoubtedly a part of worship, as Ibn Abbas said, “the best forms of worship is the du’a”
[Munthir and Ibn Haakim].
To Allah belongs certain rights, among these including to slaughter in His Name, to prostrate before no one but Him, and to direct Du’a to no one but Him. In this regard, the scholar Ibn Rajab said: “Know that it is an obligation to invoke Allah Alone in Du`a, and not His creation… Admitting (and showing) humility and meekness can only be revealed to Allah, Alone, for this is the essence of worship.”
Ibnul Qayyim said: “And from the types of Shirk, requesting needs from the dead, and Istighaathah from them and direction (of the call) to them, and this is the original of the Shirk of Mankind. Since the dead has his deeds cut off from him, and he cannot cause upon himself any good nor bad, let alone whoever seeks help from him, or asked him to seek intercession from Allah on his behalf. “
Calling upon the dead represents a hollow attempt to seek help from a creature who can benefit the caller nothing. Allah Says: “If you call upon them, they hear not your call, and if (in case) they were to hear, they could not grant it (your request) to you. And on the Day of Resurrection, they will disown your worshipping them” [35: 14]
The argument of the Quraish was similar to that of today’s people: they only invoked their idols as a means or intermediary towards reaching Allah “We only worship them so that they may bring us closer to Allah.” [39: 3]. Similarly, the Walis (saints) and Sheikhs and prophets are still called upon by those seeking need, in the hope that they could fulfil their needs. Yet This practice was never done by the Companions nor their predecessors, but rather was done by Hindus and other pagans who Muslims came in contact with during later conquests.
And if the dead could indeed help anyone, they would help themselves. Take for example Saad Bin Muath, the Sayyid (Leader) of the Ansar, upon whose death the Throne of Allah shook, this exemplary model himself faced the closing in of the grave, yet he had no power to stop this.
So the one who does this faces the torment of death, and the punishment f the grave, and dwells in Hell, for Allah says: “When our Messengers (the angels) come to them to take their souls, they will say: ‘Where are those whom you used to invoke and worship besides Allah,’they will reply, ‘They have vanished and deserted us. ‘And they will bear witness against themselves, that they were disbelievers.” [7: 37].
Yet many will swear that upon asking the dead or those far away for assistance, their du’a is answered. This is no proof for their statements however, and in reality, this is true also of other religions, who worship idols and animals and planets, for they too find their supplications an. Rather, and as the Scholars have explained, any such occurrence is merely a coincidence or an act of the Jinns who seek to deviate Muslims. They rush to fulfil their desires, thus making this act fair-seeming and correct in the eyes of the Muslim.
During the time of the Prophet, there was a hypocrite who was causing harm upon the Believers. So some of them said “Let us go to the Prophet (s.a.w) and ask him to Istagheeth (seek for the removal of harm) for us from this hypocrite.” So the Prophet (s.a.w) replied “Verily, Istighaathah cannot be requested from me, rather, from Allah.” Although it was within the Prophet’s (s.a.w) ability and power to prevent the harm from the hypocrite, and although their request was Islamically valid, he stressed on the importance of using such terms for Allah only, because of the consequent damage it could cause to the Tawheed of his Ummah, had it been used to other than Allah.
Nonetheless, a myriad of Muslims still persist in this vice, even though the Scholars of Ahlus Sunnah have agreed upon its impermissibility. Ibn Taymiyyah commented in this regard: “But whoever takes them (Sheikhs, Awliyaa’, Pirs etc..) as intermediaries between Allah and His creation… So that they are the ones to pass on to Allah the needs of His creations, since (they believe that) Allah gives the guidance and the sustenance because of their intercession, so that the people would ask them (the intermediaries), who will then ask Allah, just as the kings’ intermediaries present people’s needs to the kings because they are closer to them from the need-seeker.. Whoever takes them as intermediaries in this manner, then such person is Kaffir and Mushrik, and should be asked to repent, and should be killed if he refuses; such people are Mushabbiha (resemblers), who have resembled the Creator to His creation, and have adopted partners with Him”.
The ways of the Prophets was to call Mankind to the worship of Allah, to seek His Help in every way, for He is the All-Hearer and All-Seer: “And when My slaves ask you concerning Me, then (say) I am indeed near. I respond to the invocations of the supplicant when he calls on Me. So let them obey Me and believe in Me, so that they may be led aright.” [2: 186]
Those Entitled to Receive Zakaat
Those Entitled to Receive Zakaat
by Imam Muhammad bin Saalih Al-’Uthaimeen
from Fusool fis-Siyaam wat-Taraaweeh waz-Zakaat
The people entitled to Zakaat are those places we can direct our Zakaat to. Allaah took charge of explaining for Himself what these places are, saying:
“The charity (Zakaat) is only for the poor, the needy, those employed to collect (the Zakaat), those whose hearts will be inclined (towards Islaam, by giving them Zakaat), for slaves, for those in debt, for (Jihaad in) the Cause of Allaah, and for the wayfarer ( i.e. destitute traveler). It is an obligation imposed by Allaah, and Allaah is the All-Knower, the All-Wise.”[Surah At-Tawbah: 60]
1. The Poor (Fuqaraa): They are those who are not able to support themselves with sufficient means, except for very little, which is less than half (a year). So if a person cannot find that which will support himself and his family for at least half a year, he is considered poor ( faqeer) and he should be given what will suffice him and his family for a year.
2. The Needy (Masaakeen): They are those who are able to support themselves with sufficient means for half of the year or more, but not enough for the entire year. So they should receive support that will complete the year for them. If a person does not have any cash on him, but yet has some other source of income, such as a profession, a salary or investment profits that will support him financially, he should not be given Zakaat. This is based on the Prophet’s statement: “There is no share in it (i.e. the Zakaat) for a wealthy person or for a strong able-bodied person who can earn a living.”
3. Those employed to collect the Zakaat: They are the ones put in charge by the ruler of a country to collect the Zakaat from those who owe it, distribute it to those who are entitled to it, guard the funds and all other types of duties involved with the supervision of Zakaat. So they should be given a portion of the Zakaat in accordance with the work they put in, even if they may already be wealthy.
4. Those whose hearts will be inclined: This refers to tribal and clan leaders, who do not have strong Faith. They should be given Zakaat so as to strengthen their Faith, which will make them callers to Islaam and good role models. But what if a person is weak in his Islaam, and he is not from the leaders who are followed and obeyed, but rather from the common folk, should he be given some Zakaat in order to strengthen his Faith?
Some scholars hold that it should be given to him since benefiting one’s religion is better than benefiting one’s body. Look at the example of a poor person. He is given Zakaat in order to nourish his body. So nourishing someone’s heart with Faith is greater and of more benefit. However some scholars hold that he should not be given the Zakaat since the benefit of strengthening his Faith is a personal benefit that is specific to him alone.
5. Slaves: What falls under this is buying slaves using Zakaat funds in order to free them, as well as assisting in the liberation of Muslim war captives.
6. Those in debt: They are the ones who owe debts. This is on the condition that they do not possess that which will enable them to remove their debts. So these people should be given enough (Zakaat) that will relieve them of their debt, whether it is a small or large amount, even if they may be wealthy due to their livelihood. So in the case where there is a man who has some income that is enough for the livelihood of himself and his family, but he has some debt that he cannot repay, he may be given sufficient Zakaat that will remove his debt from him. However, it is not permissible for a person who is owed money by a poor person to cancel that person’s debt, intending to give his share of Zakaat by that.
The scholars have differed regarding the case where the one in debt is someone’s father or son. Can he be given Zakaat in order to remove his debt? The correct opinion is that it is permissible. It is permissible for a person who owes Zakaat to go to the creditor (person owed the debt) and pay him back the loan of the indebted without the latter being aware of it. This is on the condition that the person owing Zakaat knows that the indebted one is unable to repay his debt.
7. In the Cause of Allaah: This refers to Jihaad in the Cause of Allaah. So those who fight in Jihaad should be given a portion of the Zakaat that will suffice them for their Jihaad and enable them to buy the necessary tools for Jihaad in the Cause of Allaah.
What also falls under “the Cause of Allaah” is religious knowledge. So a student of Islamic knowledge should be given that which will enable him to seek knowledge, such as books and so on. This is unless he already has money of his own that will enable him to achieve that.
8. The Wayfarer: This refers to a traveler that has been cut off from his journey. So he should be given enough Zakaat that will enable him to return to his homeland.
These are the people who are entitled to receive Zakaat, the ones whom Allaah has mentioned in His Book and informed us that this is an obligation that He mandated, which stems from His knowledge and wisdom. And Allaah is All-Knowing, All-Wise.
It is not permissible to direct the Zakaat to any other place, such as towards building masaajid or fixing roads. This is because Allaah has told us those who are entitled to receive the Zakaat for the purpose of limiting them to just those mentioned. So this limitation indicates that we are to negate all other potential recipients that due not fall under this limitation.
If we were to reflect on those individuals that we may give Zakaat to, we would come to realize that among them are those who are in need of the Zakaat for personal use as well as those who are in need of it for the Muslims generally. So by this, we can see the extent of wisdom behind the requirement of Zakaat. And we would come to know that the wisdom behind Zakaat is to build a complete and upright society, as best as possible. And that Islaam does not disregard money or the benefits that can be generated from wealth, nor does it leave greedy and stingy souls to go about freely an unchecked with their stinginess and vain desires. On the contrary, it is the greatest guiding force towards the good and betterment of nations. And all praise is due to Allaah, Lord of the universe.
He is asking about dying in the month of Ramadaan
He is asking about dying in the month of Ramadaan
~
Is it true that all those who die in Ramadan, go to Janat without being questioned for their deeds?.
~~~
Answer
Praise be to Allaah. Allaah has blessed some of the elite among His slaves with the promise that they will enter Paradise without being brought to account and without being punished.
It was narrated that ‘Abd-Allaah ibn ‘Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him) said: The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: The nations were shown to me and I saw a Prophet with a small band of followers, and a Prophet with one or two men with him, and a Prophet who had no one with him. Then I was shown a huge multitude and I thought they were my ummah, but it was said to me: This is Moosa (peace be upon him) and his people. But look at the horizon. So I looked and saw a huge multitude, and it was said to me: Look at the other horizon, and there was (another) huge multitude. And it was said to me: This is your ummah and with them are seventy thousand who will enter Paradise without being brought to account or punished.” Then he got up and went into his house, and the people disputed about those who enter Paradise without being brought to account or being punished. Some of them said: Perhaps they are the ones who accompanied the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him). Some of them said: Perhaps they are the ones who were born in Islam and did not associate anything with Allaah. And they mentioned other things. The Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) came out to them and said: “What are you disputing about?” They told him, and he said: “They are the ones who did not seek ruqyah or believe in bird omens, and they put their trust in their Lord.” ‘Ukaashah ibn Mihsan stood up and said: Pray to Allaah to make me one of them. He said: “You will be one of them.” Another man stood up and said: Pray to Allaah to make me one of them. He said: “ ‘Ukaashah has beaten you to it.”
Al-Bukhaari, 5705; Muslim, 220
He did not say that among these seventy thousand would be those who died during the month of Ramadaan.
Rather those who are mentioned are the elite of the believers who achieved true belief in the oneness of the Lord of the Worlds (Tawheed). It says in Fath al-Majeed: The phrase “and put their trust in their Lord” points to the basic principles from which these actions and attributes stemmed, which is putting one’s trust in Allaah (tawakkul) and sincerely turning to Him and depending on Him. This is the ultimate Tawheed which raises a person to a high status of love, hope, fear and being content with Allaah as one’s Lord and God, and being content with His decree. (p. 74)
Concerning the virtue of one who dies whilst fasting, it was narrated that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever says Laa ilaaha ill-Allaah (there is no god but Allaah), seeking the Face of Allaah and that was his final action, will enter Paradise. Whoever fasts one day seeking the Face of Allaah and that was his final action, will enter Paradise. Whoever gives charity seeking the Face of Allaah and that was his final action will enter Paradise.” Narrated by Imam Ahmad, 22813, from the hadeeth of Hudhayfah (may Allaah be pleased with him). Al-Albaani said in Ahkaam al-Janaa’iz: its isnaad is saheeh.
It should be noted that the previous hadeeth points to the high status of those seventy thousand (may Allaah make us among them) with regard to doing righteous deeds, which is what brought them to that status before Allaah. Shaykh Muhammad ibn ‘Abd al-Wahhaab (may Allaah have mercy on him) said, after quoting this hadeeth in Kitaab al-Tawheed: “This is indicative of the depth of the knowledge of the salaf, because they knew that they could not attain that status except by doing righteous deeds.”
It should be obvious to the questioner that if there were anything special about dying in Ramadaan, this would apply only to the believers and not all those who die in Ramadaan.
Similarly, with regard to the hadeeth quoted above concerning the virtue of one who dies whilst fasting, which says that he will enter Paradise, this promise is for one who does righteous deeds and that was his final deed, not simply for dying in Ramadaan.
Moreover, it does not mention that specific virtue of entering Paradise without being brought to account. And Allaah is the Source of strength.
Islam Q&A
The Example of a Donkey….Those Who Dont Give Due Rights to Their Holy Book
By Nisaar Y. Nadiadwala
The biggest change that the Qur’an can bring in our lives is that it can make
us a giant of a personality. But not unless we give the Qur’an its rights.
How many students or reciters of Qur’an amongst us really ask our teachers about the rights of the Qur’an ?
Let us study some of the very important rights of the Qur’an upon us.
It shoud be recited properly and regularly. Some people are very careless regarding their makhraj of Arabic alphabets themselves. Makhraj in English is understood as enunciation and not pronunciation..How you utter each word can at times make the big difference in the meaning too. I have seen Muslim youth working hard on their English accents and learning Urdu poetry for impressing people in gatherings and making lucrative careers. They attend special courses and pay thousands of rupees to learn those accents, but when it comes to the Qur’an they say ” Allah will reward us as per our niyah (Intentions)…Just compare the two niyah!
It should be Understood Properly : The Qur’an does not give permission to understand its teaching on your own.
Consider this: The Prophet (pbuh)was unlettered, an Ummi, and many of his students, the companions, were scholars of Arabic language, yet they went to understand the meaning of the Quranic verses from the Prophet, rather than deriving their own meanings.
After all the Qur’an is a book of Laws and Constitution. An excellent example is given by Ibn Kathir in the reference of Surah al An’am ch 6 verse 82.. it is those who believe and confuse not their beliefs with zulm- they are in security, they are on right guidance…
Some of the companions of the Prophet (pbuh) went to him and were worried because they felt that each one of them did some thing or wrong or zulm with others some times or somewhere.. So were they on guidance?.. the Prophet explained them with the other Qur’anic verse… Surah Luqman ch 31 verse 13.. Indeed Shirk is the highest form of wrong doing (zulm)….That is the reason why Hadith is important in understanding the Qur’an. Those who reject the status of hadith may note this.
Abdullah ibn Masood r.a. was ever ready to travel hundreds of miles to know the context of even one verse..On the other hand today we have ibn Kathir online and other tafaseers too.. yet how many of the internent users really study Ibn Kathir.
In my book shop once I had a young visitor who argued with me about the price of ibn Kathir...I explained him the reasons but he was not ready to agree.. finally I asked him how much did he pay for his mobile and the amount came to be three times more than Ibn Kathir !! ’Wonderful!’ I exclaimed .
It should be Obeyed : It is not only that how many times you recite the complete Qur’an in Ramadhan but it is equally important that how much of the Qur’an you implement in your life..
Those to whom the Book is given, they recite it the way it has the right to be recited.. al-Bakarah 121…
An important verse in Surah Jumuah notes…The example of those who were given the book (Torah) but failed ( in obeying), is that of a donkey which carries huge tomes (but understands not)…..
Are we not donkeys ? No book in the world has so much detailed of explanations the way the Qur’an has.. Every century has seen scores of commentaries of Qur’an by noted scholars , yet when it comes to obeying the Qur’an most of us are like that donkey mentioned in Surah Jumuah, ch 62 verse 5.
I pray to Allah that we dont turn into a community of donkeys.
It should be Spread “Haza Balagul linnaas..”
This is a message for the entire mankind… ends Surah Ibrahim with this note..it is the duty of every Muslim to spread the fragrance of Qur’an, not just by gifting free copies of the Qur’an Translations to Non Muslim friends ,but by showing them Qur’an in our dealings with people in our personal lives or professional lives..
How many Rights of Qur’an have we given to THE BOOK that is a mercy from Allah to us in this month of Ramadhan?
Author :Nisaar Nadiadwala is not a scholar but a promoter of Islamic way of Life and motivates through his talks and notes. He can be reached at nisaar_yusuf@yahoo.com
Dua’s for Ramadan
Du’as for Fasting
When beginning the fast- Suhur
وَبِصَوْمِ غَدٍ نَّوَيْتَ مِنْ شَهْرِ رَمَضَانَ
Wa bisawmi ghadinn nawaiytu min shahri ramadan
I intend to keep the fast for tomorrow in the month of Ramadan
[abu Dawud]
When breaking the fast- Iftar
اللَّهُمَّ اِنِّى لَكَ صُمْتُ وَبِكَ امنْتُ [وَعَلَيْكَ تَوَكَّلْتُ] وَعَلَى رِزْقِكَ اَفْطَرْتُ
Allahumma inni laka sumtu wa bika aamantu [wa 'alayka tawakkaltu] wa ‘ala rizq-ika aftarthu
O Allah! I fasted for You and I believe in You [and I put my trust in You] and I break my fast with Your sustenance
["wa 'alayka tawakkaltu" is quoted in some books of knowledge - but not all, hence it is in brackets]
[abu Dawud]
——————-
ذَهَبَ الظَّمَأُ وَ ابْتَلَّتِ الْعُرُوقُ، وَ ثَبَتَ الأجْرُ إنْ شَاءَ اللَّهُ
dhahabadh-dhama’u wab-tallatil ‘urūūqi, wa thabatal arju inshaAllah
The thrist is gone, the veins are moistened and the reward is confirmed, if Allah [Ta'ala] Wills
[abu Dawud 2:306]
اللَّهُمَّ إِنِّي أَسأَلُكَ بِرَحْمَتِكَ الَّتِي وَسِعَتْ كُلَّ شَيْءٍ أَنْ تَغْفِرَ لِي
Allaahumma inni as’aluka birahmatika al-lati wasi’at kulli shay’in an taghfira li
O Allah, I ask You by Your mercy which envelopes all things, that You forgive me.
[a du'a that Abdullah ibn Amar (radiAllahu anhu) used to say when breaking his fast - as reported by Ibn abi Mulaykah (radiAllahu anhu)]
When someone offers you food when you are fasting and you decline
When you are invited to eat, then reply to the invitation. if you are fasting, then invoke Allah’s blessings (on your host), and if you are not fasting then eat
[Muslim; 2:1054]
Upon reaching month of Rajab and Sha’ban
When the Prophet (salAllahu alayhi wasalam) sighted the moon of Rajab (two months before Ramadan) he used to pray to Allah in the following words:
اَللّهُمَّ بَارِكْ لَنَا فِى رَجَبَ وَ شَعْبَانَ وَ بَلِّغْنَا رَمَضَان
Allahumma barik lana fi Rajab wa Sha’ban wa ballighna Ramadan
O Allah! Make the months of Rajab and Sha’ban blessed for us, and let us reach the month of Ramadan (i.e. prolong our life up to Ramadan, so that we may benefit from its merits and blessings)
[Narrated by at-Tabarani and Ahmad]
When you are fasting, and someone is rude to you
اِنَّيْ صَائِمٌ ، اِنِّيْ صَائمٌ
Inni sa’iimu, inni sa’iimu
I am fasting, I am fasting
[Sahih al-Bukhari, Fath al-Bari of Al-Asqalani; 4:1-3, Muslim; 2:806]
Upon Sighting of the new Moon
اللَّهُ اَكْبَرُ ، اَللَّهُمَّ اَهِلَّهُ عَلَيْنَا بِالآَمْنِ وَلاِيمَانِ ، وَالسَّلَامَةِ وَالاِسْلَامِ ، وَالتَّوْفِيقِ لِمَا تُحِبُّ رَبَّنَا وَتَرْضَى ، رَبُّنَا وَرَبُّكَ اللَّهُ
Allahu Akbar. Allahumma ahillahu ‘alayna bil-amni wal-imaani, was-salaamati, wal-Islami, wat-tawfeeqi lima tuhibbu Rabbana wa tardha. Rabbuna wa RabbukAllahu
Allah is the Greatest. O Allah bring us the new moon with security and faith, with peace and in Islam, and in harmony with what our Lord Loves and what pleases Him. Our Lord and your Lord is Allah
[at-Tirmidhi 5:504, ad-Darimi 1:336]
Upon seeing the first dates of the season
اللَّهُمَّ بَارِكْ لَنَا فِي ثَمَرِنَا ، وَ بَارِكْ لَنَا فِي مَدِينَتِنَا وَ بَارِكْ لَنَا فِي صَاعِنَا ، وَبَارِكْ لَنَا فِي مُدِّنَا
Allahumma barik lana fi thamarina, wa barik lana fi madinatina, wa barik lana fi saa’ina, wa barik lana fi muddina
O Allah! Bless us in our dates, and bless us in our town, bless us in our saa’ and in our Mudd’
(saa’ and Mudd’ are dry measures used for agricultural produce by the Arabs in the Prophet’s time)
[at-Tirmidhi 5:504, ad-Darimi 1:336]
Recited at intervals of taraweeh prayers
سُبْحَانَ ذِى الْمُلْكِ وَ الْمَلَكُوْتِ سُبْحَانَ ذِى الْعِذَّْْةِ وَ الْعظْمَةِ وَ، الْهَيْبَةِ وَ الْقُدُرَةِ ، وَالْكِبْرِيَآءِ وَ الْجَبْرُتِ، سُبْحَانَ الْمَلِكِ الْحَىِّ الَّذِىْ لايُنَامُ وَ لا يَمُوُتُ، سُبُّوحٌ ، قُدُّوْسٌ، رَبُّ الْمَلَئِكَةِ وَ الرُّوُحِ لَآ اِلهَ اِلَّا اللَّهُ نَسْتَغْفِرُ اللَّهُ ، نَسْئَلُكَ الْجَنَّةَّ وَ نَعُوُذُ بِكَ مِنَ النّارِ
Subhana dhil Mulki wal Malakuti, Subhana dhil izzati wal aDhmati wal haybati wal Qudrati, wal kibriyaa’i wal jabaroot Subhanal Malikil hayyil ladhi, la yunaamu wa la yamūtu, Subbuhun, Quddusun, Rabbul malaa’ikati war-rooh
La ilaha illal lahu, nustugfirullahi
nas ‘alukul jannati, wa na udhubika min an-naar
Glorified is the Owner of the Kingdom of the earth and the heavens; Glorified is the Possessor of Honour and Magnificence and Awe, and Power and Greatness and Omnipotence
Glorified is the Sovereign, the Living, Who does neither sleep nor die
O all Glorious, All Holy one, Our lord and the Lord of the Angels, And the soul.
There is no God but You, Forgive us, Grant us Paradise, and save us from (hell) fire.
Upon breaking the fast in someone’s home
أفْطَرَ عِنْدَكُمُ الصَّائِمُونَ، وَ أَكَلَ طَعَامَكُمُ الأبْرَارُ، وَ صَلَّتْ عَلَيْكُم ُ الْمَلائِكَةُ
Aftara ‘indakumus saa’imuna, wa akala ta’aamakumul-abraaru, wasallat ‘alaikumul mala’ikat
May those who are fasting break their fast in your home, and may the dutiful and pious eat your food and may the angels send prayers upon you.
[abu Dawud 3:367, ibn Majah 1:556, an Nasa'i]
On Lailatul Qadr – the Night of Power
Aishah (radhiya Allahu Ta’ala anha), that she said: “O Messenger of Allah! What if I knew which night Lailatul-Qadr was, then what should I say in it?” He said ‘Say
اَللَّهُمَّ اِنَّكَ عَفُوٌّ ، تُحِبُّ الْعَفْوَ فَاعْفُ عَنِّي
Allahumma innaka ‘affuwwun tuhibbul ‘afwa fa’fu ‘anni’ “
O Allah You are The One Who pardons greatly, and loves to pardon, so pardon me.
[at Tirmidhi]
Please Don’t forget us and All ummah in ur prays,
Jazakkalah khayran.
Guidelines for Ramadhan- health tips (what to eat and avoid eating in Ramadhan)
Guidelines for Ramadhan
By Dr. Farouk Haffajee
This article provides useful advice on how to avoid some common problems encountered in Ramadhan. If followed, it would enable one to fast comfortably and enjoy fully the spiritual benefits of Ramadhan.During the holy month of Ramadhan, our diet should not differ very much from our normal diet and should be as simple as possible. The diet should be such that we maintain our normal weight, neither losing nor gaining. However, if one is over-weight, Ramadhan is an ideal time to normalise one’s weight.In view of the long hours of fasting, we should consume slow digesting foods including fibre containing-foods rather than fast-digesting foods. Slow digesting foods last up to 8 hours, while fast-digesting foods last for only 3 to 4 hours.Slow-digesting foods are foods that contain grains and seeds like barley, wheat, oats, millet, semolina, beans, lentils, wholemeal flour, unpolished rice, etc. (called complex carbohydrates).· Fast-burning foods are foods that contain sugar, white flour, etc. (called refined carbohydrates).· Fibre-containing foods are bran-containing foods, whole wheat, grains and seeds, vegetables like green beans, peas, sem (papry), marrow, mealies, spinach, and other herbs like methie, the leaves of beetroot (iron-rich), fruit with skin, dried fruit especially dried apricots, figs and prunes, almonds, etc.
The foods eaten should be well-balanced, containing foods from each food group, i.e. fruits, vegetables, meat/chicken/fish, bread/cereals and dairy products. Fried foods are unhealthy and should be limited. They cause indigestion, heart-burn, and weight problems.
AVOID:
Fried and fatty foods.
o Foods containing too much sugar.
o Over-eating especially at sehri.
~ Too much tea at sehri. Tea makes you pass more urine taking with it valuable mineral salts that your body would need during the day.
~Smoking cigarettes. If you cannot give up smoking, cut down gradually starting a few weeks before Ramadhan. Smoking is unhealthy and one should stop completely.
EAT:
Complex carbohydrates at sehri so that the food lasts longer making you less hungry.
§ Haleem is an excellent source of protein and is a slow-burning food.
§ Dates are excellent source of sugar, fibre, carbohydrates, potassium and magnesium.
§ Almonds are rich in protein and fibre with less fat.
§ Bananas are a good source of potassium, magnesium and carbohydrates.
DRINK:
As much water or fruit juices as possible between iftar and bedtime so that your body may adjust fluid levels in time.
CONSTIPATION
Constipation can cause piles (haemorroids), fissures (painful cracks in anal canal) and indigestion with a bloated feeling.
Causes: Too much refined foods, too little water and not enough fibre in the diet.
Remedy: Avoid excessive refined foods, increase water intake, use bran in baking, brown flour when making roti.
INDIGESTION AND WIND
Causes: Over-eating. Too much fried and fatty foods, spicy foods, and foods that produce wind e.g. eggs, cabbage, lentils, carbonated drinks like Cola also produce gas.
Remedy: Do not over-eat, drink fruit juices or better still drink water. Avoid fried foods, add ajmor to wind-producing foods.
LETHARGY (‘low blood pressure’)
Excessive sweating, weakness, tiredness, lack of energy, dizziness, especially on getting up from sitting position, pale appearance and feeling faint are symptoms associated with “low blood pressure”. This tends to occur towards the afternoon.
Causes: Too little fluid intake, decreased salt intake.
Remedy: Keep cool, increase fluid and salt intake.
Caution: Low blood pressure should be confirmed by taking a blood pressure reading when symptoms are present. Persons with high blood pressure may need their medication adjusted during Ramadhan. They should consult their doctor.
HEADACHE:
Causes: Caffeine and tobacco-withdrawal, doing too much in one day, lack of sleep, hunger usually occur as the day goes by and worsens at the end of the day. When associated with “low blood pressure”, the headache can be quite severe and can also cause nausea before Iftar.
Remedy: Cut down caffeine and tobacco slowly starting a week or two before Ramadhan. Herbal and caffeine-free teas may be substituted. Reorganise your schedule during the Ramadan so as to have adequate sleep.
LOW BLOOD SUGAR:
Weakness, dizziness, tiredness, poor concentration, perspiring easily, feeling shaky (tremor), unable to perform physical activities, headache, palpitations are symptoms of low blood sugar.
Causes in non-diabetics: Having too much sugar i.e. refined carbohydrates especially at suhur (sehri). The body produces too much insulin causing the blood glucose to drop.
Remedy: Eat something at sehri and limit sugar-containing foods and drinks.
Caution: Diabetics may need to adjust their medication in Ramadan, consult your doctor.
MUSCLE CRAMPS:
Causes: Inadequate intake of calcium, magnesium and potassium foods.
Remedy: Eat foods rich in the above minerals e.g. vegetables, fruit, dairy products, meat and dates.
Caution: Those on high blood pressure medication and with kidney stone problems should consult their doctor.
PEPTIC ULCERS, HEART BURN, GASTRITIS AND HIATUS HERNIA
Increased acid levels in the empty stomach in Ramadhan aggravate the above conditions. It presents as a burning feeling in the stomach area under the ribs and can extend upto the throat. Spicy foods, coffee, and Cola drinks worsen these conditions.
Medications are available to control acid levels in the stomach. People with proven peptic ulcers and hiatus hernia should consult their doctor well before Ramadhan.
KIDNEY STONES
Kidney stones may occur in people who have less liquids to drink. Therefore, it is essential to drink extra liquids so as to prevent stone formation.
JOINT PAINS
Causes: During Ramadhan, when extra salah are performed the pressure on the knee joints increases. In the elderly and those with arthritis this may result in pain, stiffness, swelling and discomfort.
Remedy: Lose weight so that the knees do not have to carry any extra load. Exercise the lower limbs before Ramadhan so that they can be prepared for the additional strain. Being physically fit allows greater fulfilment, thus enabling one to be able to perform salah with ease.
Dr. Farouk Haffejee Islamic Medical Association of South Africa – Durban
Ramadan-The Muslims Holy Month of Fasting
The Muslims Holy Month of Fasting
Prepared by Sheikh Yusuf Estes
The Month of Ramadan has long ago been established as the month of fasting for Muslims. But from where does the authority and instructions for its observance come? How can we know with certainty the correct performance and acceptability with Allah the Sublime?
Wisdom of Fasting
Fasting is a great act of worship for the Muslim which he performs by neglecting his desires to please his Lord and hopes for His Reward. It just common sense that the one who would not give up desired things except that it would be for something more desirable. In this case the pleasure of Allah is the most sought after desire.
It is also a means of achieving piety and righteousness. The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “He who does not give up false speech and evil actions, Allah doesn’t need his refraining from food and drink.”
In other words, Allah is not going to accept this person’s fasting.
The heart, through fasting, is apt to maintain its tenderness since the desires are not sought rather shunned, and tend to be more receptive to the words of Allah.
The rich will, through fasting be more appreciative of Allah’s graces and bounties. He will also suffer deprivation as do the poor and needy under their everyday circumstances. So he will be more motivated to help them from what Allah has provided him. It helps depress pride of the ego and maintains humbleness.
Moreover, fasting has its health advantages by virtue of decreasing the intake of food and relaxing the digestive system. Great is the Wisdom of Allah, and great are His Graces.
Virtues of Ramadan
Abu Hurairah narrated; “Allah’s Messenger (peace be upon him) said; ‘When the month of Ramadan starts, the gates of Jannah (Paradise) are opened and the gates of Jahannam (Hell) are closed, and the shayatin (devils) are chained up.”
The gates of Jannah (Paradise) are opened in this month because a great deal of righteous deeds are performed, and as an encouragement for those who seek Allah’s reward. While the gates of Jahannam (Hell) are closed because only a few sins are committed by the believers. The shayatin (devils) will be chained that they may not have the influence on the believers by whispering to them and misguiding them, that they might ordinarily have during the other months of the year.
Allah has prescribed fasting and made it obligatory on all nations. He has said;
“O you who have believed, decreed upon you is fasting as it was decreed upon those before you that you may become righteous”
[Noble Quran 2:183]
If fasting were not a great act of worship, and the reward thereof were not so great Allah would not have prescribed it on all nations.
Of the virtues of fasting is that it is a means for atonement of sins. It is narrated on the authority of Abu Hurairah that;
“The Prophet (peace be upon him) said; “Allah has said; ‘All the deeds of Adam’s children (all mankind) they do for themselves, except fasting which belongs to Me and I will reward for it. Fasting is a shield (against the Hell and against the committing of sins). If one of you happens to be fasting he should avoid sexual relations with his wife and should avoid quarrelling. Should someone fight or quarrel with him, let him say, ‘I am fasting’. By Him in Whose Hand is my soul (Allah), the smell of the mouth of the one who is fasting is better in the sight of Allah than musk (perfume).”
[from the collection of sayings of the Prophet by Imam Bukhari]
It is a shield because it safeguards the believer from vain talk and wrong doing and thereby protects him from the Jahannam (Hell).
Of all the good deeds, Allah has favored fasting to be greatly rewarded by Him and distinguished it with prestige, if it is observed with the pure intention of pleasing Him alone.
From other sayings of the Prophet (peace be upon him) we know that:
Fasting is so highly regarded for a believer that he would have two occasions of joy, one at the time of breaking his fast, [to enjoy the bounties of Allah, because he has been favored with Allah's mercy to observe fasting while many others have been deprived of this great blessing], and the second would be when he meets his Lord [and enjoys the abundant reward for having observed fasting].
Also, that fasting intercedes with Allah on behalf other believer on the Day of Judgment.
Taken from “Virtues of Ramadan” by Sheik Muhammad bin Utheimin
Translated by Abdullah Al-Farsi – Series on Islam #17
Prepared by Yusuf Estes
Obligation of Fasting
The Month of Ramadan has long ago been established as the month of fasting for Muslims. But from where does the authority and instructions for its observance come? How can we know with certainty the correct performance and acceptability with Allah the Sublime?
We can begin by looking into the Book of Allah, the Holy Quran for foundation and authority of this Blessed Event in Muslims traditions:
Allah has said in Surah Baqarah:
O you who believe, fasting has been prescribed for you just as it was prescribed for those before you, so that you may do your duty,
On days which have been planned ahead. Any of you who is ill or on a journey [should choose] a number of other days. For those who can [scarcely] afford it, making up for it means feeding a poor man. It is even better for anyone who can volunteer some wealth; although it is better yet for you to fast, if you only knew.
The month of Ramadan is when the Quran was sent down as guidance, and as a Standard. Let any of you who is at home during the month, fast in it; while anyone who is ill or on a journey should [set an equal] number of other days. Allah wants things to be easy for you and does not want any hardship for you, so complete the number and magnify Allah because He has guided you, so that you may act grateful.
Whenever My servants ask you about Me, [it means] I am Near. I answer the appeal of the prayerful one whenever he appeals to Me. Let them respond to Me, and believe in Me so they may be directed!
It is lawful for you to have intercourse with your wives on the night of the Fast: they are garments for you while you are garments for them. Allah knows how you have been deceiving yourselves, so He has relented towards you and pardoned you. Now [feel free to] frequent them and seek what Allah has prescribed for you. Eat and drink until the white streak [of dawn] can be distinguished by you from the black thread [of night] at daybreak. Then complete the Fast until nightfall and have no dealings with women while you are secluded at your devotions in the masajid (mosques). Such are the limits set by Allah, so do not attempt to cross them! Allah explains His signs to mankind so they may do their duty.
[Noble Quran 2:183-187]
Translation of the meaning of the Holy Quran from the Original Arabic text to the English Language by T. B. Irving (Al-Hajj Ta’lim ‘Ali)
Amana Books Brattleboro, Vermont – 1412 A. H. – 1992 A. D.
Performing the other acts of worship and duties is most important, and salah (ritualistic prayers) in particular, without which no other act of worship is accepted by Allah. Praying in congregation is a great aspect in our religion. Everyone should attend: its reward is twenty seven times greater than that which is performed individually. The Prophet (peace be upon him) was just about to burn the houses of those who did not attend the congregational prayers.
[From the collection of Abu Dawud]
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said: “There will exist in my ummah (followers) those who will make unlawful things into the lawful such as; fornication, silk for the men, intoxicating beverages and the playing of musical instruments.”
[Bukhari Volume 7 #494B]
Who Should Fast?
Fasting is obligatory on the mature sane and healthy Muslim. Those who are immature (i.e. little children) are encouraged to fast. Exempted are those who suffer terminal illness, or are too old to fast. Allah does not overburden His slaves.
On the other hand, permission to abstain from fasting is granted to the travelers who do not travel for the purpose of breaking their fast. Even though it is permissible to break fast during travel, yet it is praiseworthy to fast while traveling if no hardship imposed. In any case, travelers should make up the days they missed out in Ramadan once Ramadan is over and they are back home.
As for those whose sickness does not allow them to fast, they fall into three categories:
If it is neither hard nor harmful for them, they must observe fasting.
If it is hard but not harmful for them, they are permitted to break their fast.
If it is harmful for them, then they must abstain from fasting. It is stated in the Quran:
“Do not kill yourselves” and “Do not throw yourselves into destruction.”
[Noble Quran 2:195]
The Prophet (peace be upon him) is reported to have said: “Cause no harm to yourselves nor cause it to others.”
[From the collection of sayings of the Prophet (peace be upon him) collected by Imam Muslim]
The days that happen to be missed in Ramadan must be made up once Ramadan is over.
During the monthly menstruation of women or postnatal time after giving birth, women should not fast, but they must make up these days that are missed as soon as possible in the following month(s). Pregnant or breastfeeding women whose health or the baby’s health would be negatively affected by the fasting should break their fast and then make them up in the future as soon as it is not a problem for their health.
It is also recommended for those engaged in combat in the Way of Allah to break their fast. The Prophet (peace be upon him) told his companions in one of the battles: “You are going to meet your enemy in the morning, abstaining from fasting is better for your strength, so break your fast.”
[From the collection of sayings of the Prophet (peace be upon him) collected by Imam Muslim]
When Does Fasting Begin and End?
Fasting begins upon sighting the new moon after the ending of the month of Sha’ban (on the lunar calendar). Allah says:
“So everyone of you who is present (at his home) during that month should spend it in fasting.”
[Noble Quran 2:185]
However, it is not incumbent on each person to sight the new moon. If a trustworthy Muslim testifies that he has sighted it then everyone must observe fasting. Abu Hurairah says: “A Bedouin [dweller of the desert] came to the Prophet (peace be upon him) and reported; ‘O Prophet I have seen the new moon of Ramadan.’ So the Prophet (peace be upon him) asked the man; ‘Do you bear witness that {laa elaha illa Allah} There is no deity worthy of worship throughout the Creation – Only Allah, the Creator is worthy of worship?’ The man said; ‘I do’. Then the Prophet (peace be upon him) said; ‘Do you testify that Muhammad is the Messenger of Allah?’ Then man said; “Yes.” So the Prophet (peace be upon him) asked Bilal to announce to the people to being their fast the next day.”
Ibn ‘Umar also confirmed the practice of sighting the new moon in his report: “The people were seeking the new moon. Having sighted it myself, I reported it to the Prophet (peace be upon him). He began his fast and ordered the people to being theirs too.”
He who sights the new moon of Ramadan must inform those in authority in the Muslim government or community. Once the Muslim government announces the beginning of Ramadan, upon sighting the new moon, it becomes binding on the rest of the Muslims to being their fasting.
It should be kept in mind, however, that astronomical calculations must be ruled out from Shari’ah and must not be relied on for sighting the moon, as the Prophet (peace be upon him) has ruled that Muslims must begin their fast upon seeing the new moon, not upon calculating the month astronomically. It is only when it becomes hard to see the new moon, due to weather conditions, then Muslims may complete the month of Sha’ban, which precedes the month of Ramadan, as thirty days.
(The lunar month is either 29 or 30 days according to the sighting of the new moon. It is never more or less in number.)
Praiseworthy Etiquettes of Fasting
Taking the meal of Suhur:
The Prophet (peace be upon him) said; “Take the meal of suhur because there is blessing in it.”
He also said; “The difference between our fasting and that of the People of the Book (Jews and Christians) is taking the meal of suhur.”
Even taking a cup of water in lieu of suhur meal has blessings in it also.
Breaking the fast as soon as the sun sets.
Making Du’a upon breaking the fast.
Reciting as much Quran as possible during the month of Ramadan.
Fast Breakers
Sexual intercourse during the time of day for fasting. Willful violation of fast by such practice requires the fast of sixty consecutive days in order to make up for the day in which the intercourse took place.
Intentionally ejaculating. Unintentional ejaculations do not break the fast.
Eating, drinking, smoking or taking any food substitutes such as receiving blood, glucose, or I.V. substances by intention while knowing you should be fasting. If done without remembering you are fasting, then it would not count as breaking the fast. If such an act was prescribed for an essential reason, the fast would be consider broken but would only require one day for each day missed.
Vomiting on purpose without necessity.
Menstrual bleeding.
Days in which the above practices (2 through 5) are to be make up a day for a day once Ramadan is over.
On the other hand, the application of khol, eye, ear, or nose drops or brushing the teeth or gargling with water do not break the fast. As long as there is no intention of taking any nourishment internally.
Wearing perfumes, using siwak or toothbrush without toothpaste do not break fast since it has been reported that the Prophet (peace be upon him) practiced that. One can also take the shower or a bath while fasting. However, it is incumbent to make intention of fasting before dawn. Such intention is to be made in the mind only. Pronouncing certain words for that intention is a bid’ah (innovation) neither the Prophet (peace be upon him) nor were his companions ever reported to have composed certain words for the intention.
Qiyam or Tarawih Prayers
[Join the Tarawih Prayers in Makkah Any Day You Like]
Rebroadcast of TV – in Makkah 24/7 at our Goodies page.
Virtues of Ramadan – by Sheik Muhammad bin Utheimin – translated by Abdullah Al-Farsi – Series on Islam #17
A Ramadan Poem…
Ramadan is Here
One night I heard a knock on my door;
Who can it be,I wasn’t quite sure.
I open the door and am filled with glee;
The visitor ahead is no stranger to me.
I welcome the guest with utmost delight;
For I know it has come to give me respite.
An air of happiness fills the space;
My home now seems, a better place!
Have you any clue who this visitor could be?
Yes!its Ramadhan,the month of mercy.
The pious and righteous can’t await its arrival;
Others seem to greet it, with waves of denial.
For Allah(SWT) we fast from dawn to dusk;
For Him our breath is the fragrance of musk.
The muslims who pray and fast with zest;
Are aware of the rewards of this month manifest.
Throughout this month we weep and repent;
Now is the time to strongly lament.
And those who shun this sacred month;
on the Day of Reckoning will face the brunt.
In the last ten nights,hides the Night of Decree;
Allah(SWT) then awaits for his slaves to plea.
The angels descend with Gabriel(AS) in the lead;
To check on the steadfast and record every deed.
A feeling of grief now fills my heart;
As the month of Ramadhan will soon depart.
So lets make a start and worship Him alone;
Now that the worth of this month is known.
by Asma Sadia
Beware of the dip…
Assalamu Alaikum,
It’s only a few days away…the thought of Ramadan
being around the corner gets us all super excited!
Alhamdulilah, most of us jump into Ramadan full of
energy, catching our taraweeh daily, setting time
aside for Quran recitation, and even performing qiyam
(prayers at night).
BUT, come a couple of weeks into this month, many of
us go through this DIP, loosing that energy we started
off with. We begin to slack and our ibadah just DIPS!
http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=138960476190328
(without logging into facebook)
In this video, shaykh Muhammad talks about “The Dip”
and gives us the solutions on how to deal with it!
Get the three tips NOW:
http://www.facebook.com/video/video.php?v=138960476190328
Be prepared. Know what to expect.
Make this the Best Ramadan EVER!
DiscoverU Support
Numbers of rak’ahs in Taraaweeh prayer
Please answer and explain to me the following issues:
1. The sunnah is to pray 11 Rakat then why is Prophets mosque in Medina and also in Masdid-ul-Haram the imam leads the people to pray 20 Rakat? Why? Why is this different from the sunnah?
2. Why are the number of Rakat of Taraweeh in Prophets mosque and Masjid-ul-Haraam 20 Rakat? Please explain to us so.
Al-Sharh al-Mumti’, 4/225
Two groups have gone to extremes with regard to this matter. The first group denounced everyone who prays more than eleven rak’ahs and said that doing so was bid’ah. The second group denounced those who do only eleven rak’ahs and said that they are going against scholarly consensus (ijmaa’).
Let us listen to what Shaykh Ibn ‘Uthaymeen (may Allaah have mercy on him) said:
Here we say that we should not go to extremes or be negligent. Some people go to extremes in adhering to the number mentioned in the Sunnah, and say that it is not permissible to do more than the number mentioned in the Sunnah, and they aggressively denounce those who do more than that, saying that they are sinners.
This is undoubtedly wrong. How can they be sinners, when the Prophet SAWS (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), upon being asked about night prayers, said that they are to be done two by two, and he did not specify any particular number? Of course the one who asked him about the night prayer did not know the number, because if he did not know how to do it, it is even more likely that he did not know the number. And he was not one of those who served the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) so that we might say that he knew what happened inside his house. Since the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) told him how to do it but did not say how many times, it may be understood that the matter is broad in scope, and that a person may pray one hundred rak’ahs then pray Witr with one rak’ah.
With regard to the words of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him), “Pray as you have seen me praying”, this does not apply in absolute terms even for these people. Hence they do not say that a person should pray Witr with five rak’ahs sometimes and with seven rak’ahs sometimes and with nine rak’ahs sometimes. If we understand it in absolute terms, then we would have to pray Witr with five rak’ahs sometimes and with seven rak’ahs sometimes and with nine rak’ahs sometimes. But what is meant by the hadeeth is pray as you have seen me praying with regard to how to pray not how many rak’ahs, unless there is a text to state what the number is.
Whatever the case, a person should not be strict with people with regard to a matter that is broad in scope. We have even seen some brothers who are strict on this matter accusing the imams who pray more than eleven rak’ahs of following bid’ah, and they leave the mosque, thus missing out on the reward of which the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Whoever stands with the imam until he finishes (the prayer), the reward of qiyaam al-layl will be recorded for him.” (Narrated by al-Tirmidhi, 806; classed as saheeh by al-Albaani in Saheeh al-Tirmidhi, 646). Some of them even sit down after completing ten rak’ahs, thus breaking up the rows of worshippers by sitting there, and sometimes they start talking and disturb the people who are praying.
We have no doubt that their intentions are good and they are doing their best to come to the right conclusion, but that does not mean that they are correct.
The other group does the opposite. They sternly denounce those who pray only eleven rak’ahs and say that they have gone against scholarly consensus. Allaah says (interpretation of the meaning):
“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]
All the generations who came before you only knew the number as twenty-three rak’ahs, and they denounce anyone who says anything different.
Al-Sharh al-Mumti’, 4/73-75
With regard to the evidence quoted by those who say that it is not permissible to do more than eight rak’ahs in Taraaweeh, they quote the hadeeth of Abu Salamah ibn ‘Abd al-Rahmaan, who asked ‘Aa’ishah (may Allaah be pleased with her), “How did the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) pray during Ramadaan?” She said: “He did not pray more than eleven rak’ahs in Ramadaan or at other times. He would pray four, and do not ask how beautiful and long they were, then he would pray four, and do not ask how beautiful and long they were, then he would pray three. I said, ‘O Messenger of Allaah, will you sleep before you pray Witr?’ He said, ‘O ‘Aa’ishah, my eyes sleep but my heart does not.’”
Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 1909; Muslim, 738
They said: This hadeeth indicates that the Messenger of Allaah was consistent in his prayers at night in Ramadaan and at other times.
The scholars refuted this use of the hadeeth as evidence by saying that this is what the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) did, but the fact that he did something does not imply that it is obligatory.
The evidence that there is no set number for prayers at night – which include Taraaweeh – is the hadeeth of Ibn ‘Umar according to which a man asked the Messenger of Allaah (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) about prayer at night. The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) said: “Prayers at night are to be offered two by two (two rak’ahs at a time). If any of you fears that the time of dawn is approaching then let him pray one rak’ah as Witr.”
(Narrated by al-Bukhaari, 846; Muslim, 749)
If we look at what the scholars of the prominent schools of thought said, you will clearly see that this matter is broad in scope and that there is nothing wrong with doing more than eleven rak’ahs.
Al-Sarkhasi, who is one of the imams of the Hanafi school, said:
It is twenty rak’ahs, apart from Witr, in our view.
Al-Mabsoot, 2/145
Ibn Qudaamah said:
The favoured view according to Abu ‘Abd-Allaah (i.e., Imam Ahmad, may Allaah have mercy on him), is that it is twenty rak’ahs. This was the view of al-Thawri, Abu Hanfeefah and al-Shaafa’i. Maalik said it is thirty-six.
Al-Mughni, 1/457
Al-Nawawi said:
Taraaweeh prayer is Sunnah according to scholarly consensus. Our view is that it is twenty rak’ahs with ten tasleems, and it is permissible to pray it individually or in congregation.
Al-Majmoo’, 4/31
These are the views of the four imams concerning the number of rak’ahs of Taraaweeh prayer. All of them said something more than eleven rak’ahs. Perhaps the reasons why they said something more than eleven rak’ahs include the following:
1- They thought that the hadeeth of ‘Aa’ishah did not mean that this was the specific number.
2- A greater number was narrated from many of the salaf.
See al-Mughni, 2/604; al-Majmoo’, 4/32
3- The Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) used to pray eleven rak’ahs and make them very lengthy, so much so that it used to take him most of the night. Indeed, one night in which the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) led his companions in praying Taraaweeh, he did not end his prayer until just before dawn, and the Sahaabah feared that they would miss suhoor. The Sahaabah (may Allaah be pleased with them) loved to pray behind the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) and they did not feel that it was too long. The scholars thought that if the imam made the prayer so long, this would be too difficult for the members of the congregation and that might put them off. So they thought that the imam should make the recitation shorter and increase the number of rak’ahs.
The point is that the one who prays eleven rak’ahs in the manner narrated from the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) is doing well and is following the Sunnah. Whoever makes the recitation shorter and increases the number of rak’ahs is also doing well. A person who does either of these two things is not to be denounced. Shaykh al-Islam Ibn Taymiyah said:
If a person prays Taraaweeh according to the madhhabs of Abu Haneefah, al-Shaafa’i and Ahmad, with twenty rak’ahs, or according to the madhhab of Maalik, with thirty-six rak’ahs, or with thirteen or eleven rak’ahs, he has done well, as Imam Ahmad said, because there is nothing to specify the number. So the greater or lesser number of rak’ahs depends on how long or short the qiyaam (standing in the prayer) is.
Al-Ikhtiyaaraat, p. 64
Al-Suyooti said:
What is narrated in the saheeh and hasan ahaadeeth is the command to observe night prayers during Ramadaan, which is encouraged without specifying a particular number. It is not proven that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) prayed twenty rak’ahs of Taraaweeh, rather that he prayed at night, with an unspecified number of rak’ahs. Then he delayed it on the fourth night lest it become obligatory for them and they might not be able to do it. Ibn Hajar al-Haythami said: There is no saheeh report that the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allaah be upon him) prayed twenty rak’ahs of Taraaweeh. The narration which suggests that he “used to pray twenty rak’ahs” is extremely weak (da’eef).
Al-Mawsoo’ah al-Fiqhiyyah, 27/142-145
So you should not be surprised that people pray Taraaweeh as twenty rak’ahs. There have been generation after generation of those imams (who used to pray twenty rak’ahs), and all of them are good.
And Allaah knows best.
8 tips on sharing Ramadan with your neighbors
8 tips on sharing Ramadan with your neighbors
Narrated Abdullah ibn Amr ibn al-’As: Mujahid said that Abdullah ibn Amr slaughtered a sheep and said: Have you presented a gift from it to my neighbor, the Jew, for I heard the Apostle of Allah (peace and blessings be upon him) say: Gabriel kept on commending the neighbor to me so that I thought he would make an heir? (Abu Dawud).
The Prophet Muhammad said: “He is not a believer who eats his fill while his neighbor remains hungry by his side” (Baihaqi).
“By Allah, he has no faith (the Prophet repeated it three times) whose neighbors are not safe from his wickedness” (Bukhari).
*****
Ramadan is a great opportunity to share Islam and more specifically, its values of spirituality, generosity and kindness with others, especially your neighbors. It’s a great time to do Dawa. And Dawa is very much needed in the current atmosphere of anger, tension and sadness in the wake of September 11, 2001.
Here are some ideas on how you can share the joy with your neighbors this Ramadan.
1. Begin with Dua
Make Dua that Allah give you and your family the sincerity, strength, motivation and wisdom to do this. Dawa is hard work, and it needs preparation, commitment and organization.
2. Put up a Ramadan banner on your door
This can be something handmade or something more formal.
But don’t stop there. Print out a factsheet on Ramadan and stick that on the door to educate readers passing by about the blessed month and what it means to Muslims.
3. Send neighbors Iftar snacks
Include a note with the food that the month of Ramadan is here and you are sharing your joy with them.
You can offer snacks that are not just “American” but also “ethnic” (i.e. African, Middle Eastern, Indo-Pakistani, etc.). You can include index cards with the snacks listing all of the ingredients. This will help neighbors avoid food that causes allergies.
4. Give kids Ramadan Mubarak balloons and candy
Let your neighbors’ kids also feel the happiness of Ramadan by including chocolate and candy among your snacks. Balloons also add a nice touch, and if you can get some printed which have “Ramadan Mubarak” written on them, they may remember the blessed month even after it has passed.
5. Publish Ramadan information in your neighborhood newsletter
If you are part of a tenants’ association, a group within your housing complex or your neighborhood block parents’ association and they publish a newsletter, inform them about Ramadan and prepare a short write-up about the month. This is a great way of informing many more neighbors about Ramadan.
6. Have a neighborhood Iftar gathering
You don’t have to invite everyone. Perhaps just the closest neighbors can attend this event. Send handmade invitations for an “Iftar gathering” at most a week in advance (avoid the word “party” as it may be misunderstood to mean a gathering including alcohol, loud music, etc.).
Ask about allergies or other food issues before establishing the menu. Include American and “ethnic” food.
Be sure to invite Muslim family and friends who are comfortable interacting with non-Muslims to this event, and brief them about how they should properly share Ramadan with the neighbors.
Also, have some written material on Ramadan available for your guests. You can print out this factsheet and put it on some fancy paper to add to the festive air of the evening.
At the gathering:
Be cordial, generous and friendly, but maintain Islamic rules of behavior and modesty. This should not be a “party” in the common understanding, but more of a religious celebration that is spiritual and respectful to all.
Don’t impose information. Just let non-Muslim guests ask questions, if they want to. As well, be ready for questions about Islam and violence/terrorism, the oppression of women, etc. Give neighbors the benefit of the doubt and clarify their misunderstanding in a calm, gentle manner.
7. Get your kids on it
Tell your kids to inform other neighbors’ kids what Ramadan is all about and have the children invite their classmates to your Iftar gatherings.
8. Talk about what Ramadan means to you
What’s it like to fast? How do you work/go to school and still fast? These are some questions you may be asked. Don’t just point your guests to the pamphlets. Tell them and use some personal examples they can relate to.
Source: SoundVision.com
