Supplication at the Time of Tahajjud (pre-dawn)
All Praise due to You, O Allah!
You are the Sustainer of the heavens and the earth and whatever
is in them. Praise be to You;
Yours is the domain of the heavens and the earth and whatever is
in them. Praise be to You;
You are the Light of the heavens and the earth and whatever is in
them. Praise be to You;
You are the Truth.
Your Promise is true,
meeting with You is true.
Your word is true,
Paradised is true,
Hell is true,
Prophets are true,
Muhammad (sallullahu alayhi wasallam) is true,
the Hour (of Judgement) is true.
O Allah! Unto You do I submit,
in You do I believe,
upon You do I depend.
Unto you do I turn.
For You do I contend;
Unto You do I seek judgement. So forgive me for what I did and
will do,
For what I concealed and what I declared, and for that which you
are more knowledgeable than me.
You are the Expediter and You are the Deferrer.
There is no deity but You.
And there is no ability or power except by the leave of Allah.
Al-Bukhari
"Quoted from Selected Prayers, compiled by Jamal Badawi page 77"
Thursday, May 31, 2007
Parental Responsibilites
Translation of a speech by Shaykh Abdullah Kapodravi
Condensed version from www.alimahprogram.org
On 7th April 2006, Shaykh Abdullah Kapodravi, a prominent scholar
from India made an impromptu speech before Salatul Jumma at Jumma
Masjid, Batley, England. He highlighted the dangers facing
Muslims in today’s turbulent times, pleading Muslim parents
to focus on their responsibilities, and asking the audience to
implement the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, Sallallahu Alayhi
Wasallam. The Shaykh is a prolific writer, orator and
educationalist, who served as chancellor of Darul Uloom
Tadkeshwar, India for 28 years. He has travelled extensively in
the Islamic world and the West. He is aged 74, and currently
resides in Canada. The speech was translated and edited by
Sulaiman Kazi.
All praise is due to Almighty God, Allah, and may He, the
Exalted, bestow His peace and blessings upon Prophet Muhammad,
Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, upon his good and pure family, as
well as upon all of the noble companions, and upon those who
follow them in righteousness until the Day of Judgment.
Friends, a very serious issue that confronts the Islamic world
today is the character of our youth, which is far removed from
Islamic teachings. When I read newspaper accounts about the
behaviour of our youth my heart cries with pain. I anguish where
is the Ummah heading? Could anyone have imaged that in this Ummah
a mother would have an illicit relationship with her son?
Lamentably, this is happening. A Muslim youth would be drinking?
A Muslim youth would be stealing? A Muslim youth and s/he has no
respect towards his/her elders? Bad character is manifesting
itself everywhere. And the Prophet Muhammad, Sallallahu Alayhi
Wasallam, was sent into the world to correct human conduct and
morals. As the famous poet Shauki said: “In the world
communities are raised with noble conduct, communities are
obliterated with bad character.”
We have become addicted to criticising others. So and so is doing
such and such. Day and night we are accustomed to levelling
accusations against others. Do we not consider what we are doing?
Which direction our community is heading? The biggest
responsibility that falls on the Muslim Ummah is to provide
correct Islamic teachings and instil excellent morals and
character in our children. No matter what education they pursue
the paramount consideration must be for our children to develop a
strong Islamic moral character. They must never lie, never
deceive anyone, nor look towards strange women. Should they be a
shopkeeper then they must not misappropriate even five pence. A
community imbued with good morals always ascends. This is a
universal principle that holds true in all times. And a morally
bankrupt community always degenerates and becomes devoid of
progress. We need to inculcate good habits in our children. This
is imperative for our progress.
Pitifully our situation is such that we send children to Maktabs
(supplementary religious schools) from the age of 6 or 7 but when
they attain the age of 12 they leave the Maktabs but continue to
pursue schooling. These children then have no contact whatsoever
with the glorious Quran or any Islamic books. In fact between the
ages of 12 and 24 a young person is most susceptible. This point
is confirmed by educationalists. During this period if a
child’s guidance and upbringing is overlooked or neglected
then s/he will not remain steadfast on Islam.
Rasulullah, Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, used to discern even
minor things. Once Hussain, Radhiallahu Anhu, placed a piece of
date in his mouth which was designated as Sadaqah (voluntary
charity). Rasulullah placed his finger inside the mouth and made
him vomit it out, saying “This item is earmarked as Sadaqah
and it cannot be consumed by you.” If the same scenario was
before us we would allow the child to eat the date saying,
“He’s a kid. What’s wrong with him having a date?
When he grows up he will understand the difference between Halal
or Haram.” No, Rasulullah immediately stopped Hussain
Radhiallahu Anhu.
Similarly, once a boy was eating with Rasulullah, Sallallahu
Alayhi Wasallam. Instead of eating food which was near him he was
taking food from different places. So Rasulullah explained to him
gently, “My dear son, first recite Bismillahir Rahmanir
Rahim, eat with your right hand, and eat from in front of
you.” This illustrates that Rasulullah, Sallallahu Alayhi
Wasallam, used to sit with children and observe their eating
habits. Do we ever do the same? Nowadays children are eating
whilst walking, standing and on their way to school. We don’t
even reprimand them saying this is contrary to the lifestyle of
Muslims. In the lifestyle of Rasulullah, Sallallahu Alayhi
Wasallam, we have a comprehensive mode of living. Rasulullah,
Sallallahu Alyhi Wasallam, has taught us an entire way of life
which is distinct and supreme. We have neglected that lifestyle
and become careless and as a result our children have fallen prey
to an un-Islamic lifestyle.
My friends, I am sitting in the Masjid and testify to you that
our society is in a state of decadence and our children and youth
are going astray, totally pursuing a wayward life. For Muslim
parents, the need to provide sound Islamic upbringing should take
precedence over all other responsibilities they owe to their
children. Life is constituted of good morals and character. The
Prophet, Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, was sent into the world for
teaching good character to humanity. Within such a short period
of time, he established such splendid character among his
Companions. Today, there is no parallel to these people. The
character of Abu Bark, Umar, Osman, Ali, Radhiallahu Anhum –
who nurtured their character and made them who they were?
Undoubtedly, they were taught by Sayyidina Muhammad, Sallallahu
Alayhi Wasallam. Those who sat in the company of Prophet
Muhammad, Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, their character was raised
to sublime heights. After departing from the Prophet’s
company, they would never again speak a lie, oppress anyone. And
if ever they happened to utter something wrong it would agitate
and stir great remorse. Once Sayyidina Abu Bakr, Radhiyallahu
Anhu, was seen pulling his tongue and rebuking himself: “How
could I have said a harsh word to my fellow Muslim brother.”
Nowadays we tend to lie, gossip, and backbite whilst forgetting
the heart of a Muslim will be hurt.
At this moment the most important duty that falls Muslim parents
is to impart correct Islamic education to their children and
inculcate sound Islamic character. Our character should be of
such a high standard that humanity is drawn to Islam. What kind
of bad character is this: there was a public demonstration in
Lucknow, India against the publication of cartoons in Denmark
depicting the Prophet, Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam. During the
demonstration evil slogans were being chanted, shop-keepers were
forced to shut their shops - including shops belonging to
non-Muslims, car windows smashed, cars set alight in the street.
What kind of emotional and irrational response is this? To
illustrate your protest at the publication of cartoons you are
recklessly damaging property. Where is the sense in this?
Recently, in France a government minister made controversial
comments about immigrants and Muslim youths rioted by burning
around 10,000 cars in Paris. At the time of this flare-up, I was
visiting Reunion Islands. Two representatives of the French
government were also there as guests to celebrate 100 years of
the establishment of the mosque in St Dennis. They became aware
that scholars were present from the Indian sub-continent. They
approached me and one of the first things they asked me was
regarding the burning of cars, how Islam viewed such acts? I
replied categorically that these actions had no bearing with
Islam. What is wrong must be pointed out as such. Sometimes there
is a tendency to cover up the wrong doings of Muslims, justifying
the actions by saying it was done by Muslims so it is acceptable
to turn a blind-eye. No, what is wrong must be categorised as
wrong irrespective of who has done it.
We have been taught moderation. How much injustice was
perpetrated against the Prophet, Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, in
Makkah Mukaramah? You all know that thorns were placed in his
path and he was persecuted. But did he ever respond by asking his
Companions to take out a demonstration? In fact, when a lady who
used to lay thorns in the path of the Prophet, Sallallahu Alayhi
Wasallam, fell ill, the Prophet himself when to visit her. Such
was his character. He enquired “Why have you not laid any
thorns in my path recently,” she enquired, “Who are
you?” Prophet Muhammad, Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, replied:
“I am the same Muhammad for whom you lay thorns.” She
started weeping profusely. As they say, “With character you
win, with character you respond.”
My dear Prophet, Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, exemplified the
noblest character. Despite being hit with stones and bleeding
profusely, so much that when angels were sent asking him to order
that the mountains of Taif crush the perpetrators belonging to
Banu Thaqif, he replied, “O Allah, grant my people
guidance.” He didn’t retaliate in the least as he was
sent as a mercy for mankind and to guide humanity to the truth
and beauty of Islam.
Patience, steadfastness and good character are prerequisites for
being a good Muslim. Muslims need to create awareness and
understand the challenges they are facing. It pains me to see how
apathetic Muslims have become. We must always be on our guard
that our wrongdoings should not blemish or tarnish the image of
Islam.
May Almighty Allah grant us understanding of the challenges that
face us, protect us and grant us all the Tawfiq (strength and
ability) to practice the wonderful teachings of Prophet Muhammad,
Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam. Ameen.
Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Universe.
Condensed version from www.alimahprogram.org
On 7th April 2006, Shaykh Abdullah Kapodravi, a prominent scholar
from India made an impromptu speech before Salatul Jumma at Jumma
Masjid, Batley, England. He highlighted the dangers facing
Muslims in today’s turbulent times, pleading Muslim parents
to focus on their responsibilities, and asking the audience to
implement the teachings of Prophet Muhammad, Sallallahu Alayhi
Wasallam. The Shaykh is a prolific writer, orator and
educationalist, who served as chancellor of Darul Uloom
Tadkeshwar, India for 28 years. He has travelled extensively in
the Islamic world and the West. He is aged 74, and currently
resides in Canada. The speech was translated and edited by
Sulaiman Kazi.
All praise is due to Almighty God, Allah, and may He, the
Exalted, bestow His peace and blessings upon Prophet Muhammad,
Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, upon his good and pure family, as
well as upon all of the noble companions, and upon those who
follow them in righteousness until the Day of Judgment.
Friends, a very serious issue that confronts the Islamic world
today is the character of our youth, which is far removed from
Islamic teachings. When I read newspaper accounts about the
behaviour of our youth my heart cries with pain. I anguish where
is the Ummah heading? Could anyone have imaged that in this Ummah
a mother would have an illicit relationship with her son?
Lamentably, this is happening. A Muslim youth would be drinking?
A Muslim youth would be stealing? A Muslim youth and s/he has no
respect towards his/her elders? Bad character is manifesting
itself everywhere. And the Prophet Muhammad, Sallallahu Alayhi
Wasallam, was sent into the world to correct human conduct and
morals. As the famous poet Shauki said: “In the world
communities are raised with noble conduct, communities are
obliterated with bad character.”
We have become addicted to criticising others. So and so is doing
such and such. Day and night we are accustomed to levelling
accusations against others. Do we not consider what we are doing?
Which direction our community is heading? The biggest
responsibility that falls on the Muslim Ummah is to provide
correct Islamic teachings and instil excellent morals and
character in our children. No matter what education they pursue
the paramount consideration must be for our children to develop a
strong Islamic moral character. They must never lie, never
deceive anyone, nor look towards strange women. Should they be a
shopkeeper then they must not misappropriate even five pence. A
community imbued with good morals always ascends. This is a
universal principle that holds true in all times. And a morally
bankrupt community always degenerates and becomes devoid of
progress. We need to inculcate good habits in our children. This
is imperative for our progress.
Pitifully our situation is such that we send children to Maktabs
(supplementary religious schools) from the age of 6 or 7 but when
they attain the age of 12 they leave the Maktabs but continue to
pursue schooling. These children then have no contact whatsoever
with the glorious Quran or any Islamic books. In fact between the
ages of 12 and 24 a young person is most susceptible. This point
is confirmed by educationalists. During this period if a
child’s guidance and upbringing is overlooked or neglected
then s/he will not remain steadfast on Islam.
Rasulullah, Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, used to discern even
minor things. Once Hussain, Radhiallahu Anhu, placed a piece of
date in his mouth which was designated as Sadaqah (voluntary
charity). Rasulullah placed his finger inside the mouth and made
him vomit it out, saying “This item is earmarked as Sadaqah
and it cannot be consumed by you.” If the same scenario was
before us we would allow the child to eat the date saying,
“He’s a kid. What’s wrong with him having a date?
When he grows up he will understand the difference between Halal
or Haram.” No, Rasulullah immediately stopped Hussain
Radhiallahu Anhu.
Similarly, once a boy was eating with Rasulullah, Sallallahu
Alayhi Wasallam. Instead of eating food which was near him he was
taking food from different places. So Rasulullah explained to him
gently, “My dear son, first recite Bismillahir Rahmanir
Rahim, eat with your right hand, and eat from in front of
you.” This illustrates that Rasulullah, Sallallahu Alayhi
Wasallam, used to sit with children and observe their eating
habits. Do we ever do the same? Nowadays children are eating
whilst walking, standing and on their way to school. We don’t
even reprimand them saying this is contrary to the lifestyle of
Muslims. In the lifestyle of Rasulullah, Sallallahu Alayhi
Wasallam, we have a comprehensive mode of living. Rasulullah,
Sallallahu Alyhi Wasallam, has taught us an entire way of life
which is distinct and supreme. We have neglected that lifestyle
and become careless and as a result our children have fallen prey
to an un-Islamic lifestyle.
My friends, I am sitting in the Masjid and testify to you that
our society is in a state of decadence and our children and youth
are going astray, totally pursuing a wayward life. For Muslim
parents, the need to provide sound Islamic upbringing should take
precedence over all other responsibilities they owe to their
children. Life is constituted of good morals and character. The
Prophet, Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, was sent into the world for
teaching good character to humanity. Within such a short period
of time, he established such splendid character among his
Companions. Today, there is no parallel to these people. The
character of Abu Bark, Umar, Osman, Ali, Radhiallahu Anhum –
who nurtured their character and made them who they were?
Undoubtedly, they were taught by Sayyidina Muhammad, Sallallahu
Alayhi Wasallam. Those who sat in the company of Prophet
Muhammad, Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, their character was raised
to sublime heights. After departing from the Prophet’s
company, they would never again speak a lie, oppress anyone. And
if ever they happened to utter something wrong it would agitate
and stir great remorse. Once Sayyidina Abu Bakr, Radhiyallahu
Anhu, was seen pulling his tongue and rebuking himself: “How
could I have said a harsh word to my fellow Muslim brother.”
Nowadays we tend to lie, gossip, and backbite whilst forgetting
the heart of a Muslim will be hurt.
At this moment the most important duty that falls Muslim parents
is to impart correct Islamic education to their children and
inculcate sound Islamic character. Our character should be of
such a high standard that humanity is drawn to Islam. What kind
of bad character is this: there was a public demonstration in
Lucknow, India against the publication of cartoons in Denmark
depicting the Prophet, Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam. During the
demonstration evil slogans were being chanted, shop-keepers were
forced to shut their shops - including shops belonging to
non-Muslims, car windows smashed, cars set alight in the street.
What kind of emotional and irrational response is this? To
illustrate your protest at the publication of cartoons you are
recklessly damaging property. Where is the sense in this?
Recently, in France a government minister made controversial
comments about immigrants and Muslim youths rioted by burning
around 10,000 cars in Paris. At the time of this flare-up, I was
visiting Reunion Islands. Two representatives of the French
government were also there as guests to celebrate 100 years of
the establishment of the mosque in St Dennis. They became aware
that scholars were present from the Indian sub-continent. They
approached me and one of the first things they asked me was
regarding the burning of cars, how Islam viewed such acts? I
replied categorically that these actions had no bearing with
Islam. What is wrong must be pointed out as such. Sometimes there
is a tendency to cover up the wrong doings of Muslims, justifying
the actions by saying it was done by Muslims so it is acceptable
to turn a blind-eye. No, what is wrong must be categorised as
wrong irrespective of who has done it.
We have been taught moderation. How much injustice was
perpetrated against the Prophet, Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, in
Makkah Mukaramah? You all know that thorns were placed in his
path and he was persecuted. But did he ever respond by asking his
Companions to take out a demonstration? In fact, when a lady who
used to lay thorns in the path of the Prophet, Sallallahu Alayhi
Wasallam, fell ill, the Prophet himself when to visit her. Such
was his character. He enquired “Why have you not laid any
thorns in my path recently,” she enquired, “Who are
you?” Prophet Muhammad, Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, replied:
“I am the same Muhammad for whom you lay thorns.” She
started weeping profusely. As they say, “With character you
win, with character you respond.”
My dear Prophet, Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam, exemplified the
noblest character. Despite being hit with stones and bleeding
profusely, so much that when angels were sent asking him to order
that the mountains of Taif crush the perpetrators belonging to
Banu Thaqif, he replied, “O Allah, grant my people
guidance.” He didn’t retaliate in the least as he was
sent as a mercy for mankind and to guide humanity to the truth
and beauty of Islam.
Patience, steadfastness and good character are prerequisites for
being a good Muslim. Muslims need to create awareness and
understand the challenges they are facing. It pains me to see how
apathetic Muslims have become. We must always be on our guard
that our wrongdoings should not blemish or tarnish the image of
Islam.
May Almighty Allah grant us understanding of the challenges that
face us, protect us and grant us all the Tawfiq (strength and
ability) to practice the wonderful teachings of Prophet Muhammad,
Sallallahu Alayhi Wasallam. Ameen.
Praise be to Allah, the Lord of the Universe.
Tuesday, May 29, 2007
3 Steps to Help Guide a Muslim Child
via Lingua Islamica by Destination Akhirah on May 29, 2007 These are VERY successful techniques in guiding children towards gaining strong Islamic values and high achievement.
1. Role Modeling
When a child does an action that is un-Islamic, it is better to give the child a role model of someone who acted Islamically.
For example:
When a child lies (and children do lie), I will remind her/him about a child that does not lie. “Remember, that when Abdullah broke the cup he quickly told the truth!” Then the child will speak the truth, it has worked every time.
2. No Praise, Only Encouragement
Praising is not effective. It does neither good nor benefit. What is more useful and highly productive is words encouraging a particular behavior that is of high value.
For instance, instead of saying, “you’re smart” when a child answers a question correctly, say, “I loved the way you took the time to think about that, you really thought hard about it... (smiles) good work!” This will encourage the child to continue with that particular effort.
Especially in reading, “I love the way you slowly sounded that out! I knew if you stayed patient and kept trying you would get it! I love to see you take your time and sound out every letter.. Wow! Fantastic Effort!”
3. Change the Mood
If a child is not interested in school work for instance, and is doing the work at a very slow pace. You may take a piece of candy and say, “This candy has super powers, whomever eats it has the power to think harder, and work faster! I would give you some, but I’m afraid it might make you work too fast!” It is easier to get work done when there is a happy feeling inside. Think of ways to give the child a “happy/peaceful” feeling, and once it is there, the child can work more effectively in becoming a patient, hardworking, happy Muslim.
May Allāh provide for us children who are a comfort to our eyes, and may He make us parents that earn His pleasure, and by His Mercy, may Allāh make us a comfort to the eyes of our children. Āmīn.
1. Role Modeling
When a child does an action that is un-Islamic, it is better to give the child a role model of someone who acted Islamically.
For example:
When a child lies (and children do lie), I will remind her/him about a child that does not lie. “Remember, that when Abdullah broke the cup he quickly told the truth!” Then the child will speak the truth, it has worked every time.
2. No Praise, Only Encouragement
Praising is not effective. It does neither good nor benefit. What is more useful and highly productive is words encouraging a particular behavior that is of high value.
For instance, instead of saying, “you’re smart” when a child answers a question correctly, say, “I loved the way you took the time to think about that, you really thought hard about it... (smiles) good work!” This will encourage the child to continue with that particular effort.
Especially in reading, “I love the way you slowly sounded that out! I knew if you stayed patient and kept trying you would get it! I love to see you take your time and sound out every letter.. Wow! Fantastic Effort!”
3. Change the Mood
If a child is not interested in school work for instance, and is doing the work at a very slow pace. You may take a piece of candy and say, “This candy has super powers, whomever eats it has the power to think harder, and work faster! I would give you some, but I’m afraid it might make you work too fast!” It is easier to get work done when there is a happy feeling inside. Think of ways to give the child a “happy/peaceful” feeling, and once it is there, the child can work more effectively in becoming a patient, hardworking, happy Muslim.
May Allāh provide for us children who are a comfort to our eyes, and may He make us parents that earn His pleasure, and by His Mercy, may Allāh make us a comfort to the eyes of our children. Āmīn.
Thursday, May 24, 2007
Recipe for a Successful Marriage
by Mufti Ebrahim Desai (db)
"Our Lord! Grant that our spouses and our offspring be a comfort to our eyes, and give us the grace to lead those who are conscious of You"
(Furqaan 74).
Q: Every human being by nature has an instinct to dispute. This instinct becomes more manifest between the husband and wife, thus leading to marital disputes. How can this instinct be controlled?
A. Consider the following ten points to control the instinct of dispute and maintain a happy marriage.
1. Fear Allah: It was the noble practice of Nabi (SAW) to conscientise the spouses about the fear for Allah before performing a Nikah by reciting the verses (Nisa v14, Ahzab v69, Aali-Imraan v101) from the Quraan. All the verses are common in the message of Taqwa (fear of Allah). The spouses will be first committed to Allah before being committed to their partner. There can be no doubt in the success of a marriage governed by the fear of Allah.
2. Never be angry at the same time: Anger is the root cause for all marital disputes. One Sahabi came to Rasulullah (SAW) and sought some advice. Rasulullah (SAW) replied, control your anger. The same advice was rendered three times. (Mishkaat pg.433; HM Saeed)
3. If one has to win an argument, let it be the other: Nabi (SAW) said: "Whoever discards an argument despite being correct shall earn a palace in the centre of Jannah. (Ibid pg.412)
4. Never shout at each other unless the house is on fire: Luqman (AS) while offering advice to his son said: " and lower your voice for verily the most disliked voice is that of a donkey". (Surah Luqman v19)
5. If you have to criticize, do it lovingly: Rasulullah (SAW) said, 'A Mu'min is a mirror for a Mu'min.' (Abu Dawud vol.2 pg.325; Imdadiyah) Advise with dignity and silently.
6. Never bring up mistakes of the past: Nabi (SAW) said: "Whoever conceals the faults of others, Allah shall conceal his faults on the day of Qiyaamah." (Mishkaat pg.429; HM Saeed)
7. Neglect the whole world rather than your marriage partner: Nabi (SAW) confirmed the advice of Salman to Abu-Darda [RA] for neglecting his wife. "Verily there is a right of your wife over you." (Nasai Hadith2391)
8. Never sleep with an argument unsettled: Abu Bakr [RA] resolved his dispute with his wife over-feeding the guests before going to bed. (Bukhari Hadith 602)
9. At least, once everyday, express your gratitude to your partner: Nabi [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] said, 'Whoever does not show gratitude to the people has not shown gratitude to Allah.' (Abu Dawud pg.662; Karachi)
10. When you have done something wrong, be ready to admit it and ask for forgiveness: Nabi [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] said, 'All the sons of Aadam commit error, and the best of those who err are those who seek forgiveness.' (Tirmidhi Hadith 2499)
"Our Lord! Grant that our spouses and our offspring be a comfort to our eyes, and give us the grace to lead those who are conscious of You"
(Furqaan 74).
Q: Every human being by nature has an instinct to dispute. This instinct becomes more manifest between the husband and wife, thus leading to marital disputes. How can this instinct be controlled?
A. Consider the following ten points to control the instinct of dispute and maintain a happy marriage.
1. Fear Allah: It was the noble practice of Nabi (SAW) to conscientise the spouses about the fear for Allah before performing a Nikah by reciting the verses (Nisa v14, Ahzab v69, Aali-Imraan v101) from the Quraan. All the verses are common in the message of Taqwa (fear of Allah). The spouses will be first committed to Allah before being committed to their partner. There can be no doubt in the success of a marriage governed by the fear of Allah.
2. Never be angry at the same time: Anger is the root cause for all marital disputes. One Sahabi came to Rasulullah (SAW) and sought some advice. Rasulullah (SAW) replied, control your anger. The same advice was rendered three times. (Mishkaat pg.433; HM Saeed)
3. If one has to win an argument, let it be the other: Nabi (SAW) said: "Whoever discards an argument despite being correct shall earn a palace in the centre of Jannah. (Ibid pg.412)
4. Never shout at each other unless the house is on fire: Luqman (AS) while offering advice to his son said: " and lower your voice for verily the most disliked voice is that of a donkey". (Surah Luqman v19)
5. If you have to criticize, do it lovingly: Rasulullah (SAW) said, 'A Mu'min is a mirror for a Mu'min.' (Abu Dawud vol.2 pg.325; Imdadiyah) Advise with dignity and silently.
6. Never bring up mistakes of the past: Nabi (SAW) said: "Whoever conceals the faults of others, Allah shall conceal his faults on the day of Qiyaamah." (Mishkaat pg.429; HM Saeed)
7. Neglect the whole world rather than your marriage partner: Nabi (SAW) confirmed the advice of Salman to Abu-Darda [RA] for neglecting his wife. "Verily there is a right of your wife over you." (Nasai Hadith2391)
8. Never sleep with an argument unsettled: Abu Bakr [RA] resolved his dispute with his wife over-feeding the guests before going to bed. (Bukhari Hadith 602)
9. At least, once everyday, express your gratitude to your partner: Nabi [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] said, 'Whoever does not show gratitude to the people has not shown gratitude to Allah.' (Abu Dawud pg.662; Karachi)
10. When you have done something wrong, be ready to admit it and ask for forgiveness: Nabi [sallallaahu alayhi wasallam] said, 'All the sons of Aadam commit error, and the best of those who err are those who seek forgiveness.' (Tirmidhi Hadith 2499)
Tuesday, May 15, 2007
Stimulating the Intelligence
Understanding the Prophet's Life
Stimulating the Intelligence
Throughout his mission the Prophet, peace be upon him, sought his
Companion's advice, encouraging them to express their opinions
and paying them careful attention. Furthermore, the Prophet had
evolved a genuine teaching method through which he allowed the
Muslims to develop their critical faculties, express their
talents, and mature in his presence. He would often ask questions
on various subjects and give the answers only after his
Companions had thought by themselves and expressed different
conjectures. Sometimes, more subtly, he would utter a judgment in
a paradoxical form, thereby prompting his listeners to consider
the matter more deeply. For example, he once said: "A strong man
is not a man who overcomes his enemy!" The Companions mulled this
over among themselves, then asked him: "Then who is a strong
man?" The Prophet surprised his audience and led them to a
deeper understanding of the question with his answer: "A strong
man is a man who controls himself when he is angry!"
He would sometimes speak figuratively: "Wealth does not lie in the riches
you possess!" After the Companions pondered this, Muhammad would
elaborate: "True wealth is the wealth of the soul." On occasion
the Prophet's statement appeared to contradict common sense or
ethics: "Help your brother, whether he is just or unjust!" The
Companions could not but wonder about the nature of the help they
were to give an unjust brother: how could that be? The Prophet,
inverting the perspective, would add: "Prevent him [the unjust
brother] from acting unjustly, such is the way for you to help
him!"
Both by asking questions and by formulating paradoxical or
seemingly contradictory statements, the Prophet stimulated his
Companions' critical sense and their ability to go beyond mere
blind obedience or mechanical mind-destroying imitation. This
method developed the intellectual capacities necessary for
consultations to be effective. By stimulating their intelligence
and giving them opportunities to speak, he exercised a type of
leadership that made it possible for his Companions to learn to
assert themselves and take initiative.
Source:
"In the Footsteps of the Prophet" - Tariq Ramadan, pp. 102,103
Stimulating the Intelligence
Throughout his mission the Prophet, peace be upon him, sought his
Companion's advice, encouraging them to express their opinions
and paying them careful attention. Furthermore, the Prophet had
evolved a genuine teaching method through which he allowed the
Muslims to develop their critical faculties, express their
talents, and mature in his presence. He would often ask questions
on various subjects and give the answers only after his
Companions had thought by themselves and expressed different
conjectures. Sometimes, more subtly, he would utter a judgment in
a paradoxical form, thereby prompting his listeners to consider
the matter more deeply. For example, he once said: "A strong man
is not a man who overcomes his enemy!" The Companions mulled this
over among themselves, then asked him: "Then who is a strong
man?" The Prophet surprised his audience and led them to a
deeper understanding of the question with his answer: "A strong
man is a man who controls himself when he is angry!"
He would sometimes speak figuratively: "Wealth does not lie in the riches
you possess!" After the Companions pondered this, Muhammad would
elaborate: "True wealth is the wealth of the soul." On occasion
the Prophet's statement appeared to contradict common sense or
ethics: "Help your brother, whether he is just or unjust!" The
Companions could not but wonder about the nature of the help they
were to give an unjust brother: how could that be? The Prophet,
inverting the perspective, would add: "Prevent him [the unjust
brother] from acting unjustly, such is the way for you to help
him!"
Both by asking questions and by formulating paradoxical or
seemingly contradictory statements, the Prophet stimulated his
Companions' critical sense and their ability to go beyond mere
blind obedience or mechanical mind-destroying imitation. This
method developed the intellectual capacities necessary for
consultations to be effective. By stimulating their intelligence
and giving them opportunities to speak, he exercised a type of
leadership that made it possible for his Companions to learn to
assert themselves and take initiative.
Source:
"In the Footsteps of the Prophet" - Tariq Ramadan, pp. 102,103
Friday, May 04, 2007
Frito Lay
This may be old news for some, but the latest from Frito-Lay potato chips:
Frito lay no longer has pork enzymes in their products:
Tuesday, May 01, 2007
New York Times: Rewriting the Ad Rules for Muslim-Americans
Fabrizio Costantini for the New York Times
Alia Fouz and her son at the Ikea store in Canton, Mich. She said ads that included Muslim-Americans would grab her attention. “We should be included,” Ms. Fouz said. “We live here.”By LOUISE STORY
Published: April 28, 2007
The New York Times
For years, few advertisers in the United States have dared to reach out to Muslims.
Either they did not see much potential for sales or they feared a political backlash. And there were practical reasons: American Muslims come from so many ethnic backgrounds that their only common ground is their religion, a subject most marketers avoid.
That is beginning to change. Consumer companies and advertising executives are focusing on ways to use the cultural aspects of the Muslim religion to help sell their products.
Grocers and consumer product companies are considering ways to adapt their goods to Muslim rules, which forbid among other things, gelatin and pig fat, which is often used in cosmetics and cleaning products. Retailers are looking into providing more conservative skirts, even during the summer months, and mainstream advertisers are planning to place some commercials on the satellite channels that Muslims often watch.
Marketing to Muslims carries some risks. But advertising executives, used to dividing American consumers into every sort of category, say that ignoring this group — estimated to be about five million to eight million people, and growing fast — would be like missing the Hispanic market in the 1990s.
Read more:
The Coal Basket
Q: Why do we read Quran, even if we can't understand a single Arabic word??
A: A beautiful story
An old American Muslim lived on a farm in the mountains of eastern Kentucky with his young grandson. Each morning Grandpa was up early sitting at the kitchen table reading his Qur'an. His grandson wanted to be just like him and tried to imitate him in every way he could.
One day the grandson asked, "Grandpa! I try to read the Qur'an just like you but I don't understand it, and what I do understand I forget as soon as I close the book. What good does reading the Qur'an do?"
The Grandfather quietly turned from putting coal in the stove and replied, "Take this coal basket down to the river and bring me back a basket of water."
The boy did as he was told, but all the water leaked out before he got back to the house. The grandfather laughed and said, "You'll have to move a little faster next time," and sent him back to the river with the basket to try again. This time the boy ran faster, but again the basket was empty before he returned home. Out of breath, he told his grandfather that it was impossible to carry water in a basket, and he went to get a bucket instead.
The old man said, "I don't want a bucket of water; I want a basket of water. You're just not trying hard enough,"and he went out the door to watch the boy try again.
At this point, the boy knew it was impossible, but he wanted to show his grandfather that even if he ran as fast as he could, the water would leak out before he got back to the house.
The boy again dipped the basket into river and ran hard, but when he reached his grandfather the basket was again empty. Out of breath, he said, "See Grandpa, it's useless!"
So you think it is useless?" The old man said, "Look at the basket."
The boy looked at the basket and for the first time realized that the basket was different. It had been transformed from a dirty old coal basket and was now clean, inside and out.
"Son, that's what happens when you read the Qur'an. You might not understand or remember everything, but when you read it, you will be changed, inside and out. That is the work of Allah in our lives."
An old American Muslim lived on a farm in the mountains of eastern Kentucky with his young grandson. Each morning Grandpa was up early sitting at the kitchen table reading his Qur'an. His grandson wanted to be just like him and tried to imitate him in every way he could.
One day the grandson asked, "Grandpa! I try to read the Qur'an just like you but I don't understand it, and what I do understand I forget as soon as I close the book. What good does reading the Qur'an do?"
The Grandfather quietly turned from putting coal in the stove and replied, "Take this coal basket down to the river and bring me back a basket of water."
The boy did as he was told, but all the water leaked out before he got back to the house. The grandfather laughed and said, "You'll have to move a little faster next time," and sent him back to the river with the basket to try again. This time the boy ran faster, but again the basket was empty before he returned home. Out of breath, he told his grandfather that it was impossible to carry water in a basket, and he went to get a bucket instead.
The old man said, "I don't want a bucket of water; I want a basket of water. You're just not trying hard enough,"and he went out the door to watch the boy try again.
At this point, the boy knew it was impossible, but he wanted to show his grandfather that even if he ran as fast as he could, the water would leak out before he got back to the house.
The boy again dipped the basket into river and ran hard, but when he reached his grandfather the basket was again empty. Out of breath, he said, "See Grandpa, it's useless!"
So you think it is useless?" The old man said, "Look at the basket."
The boy looked at the basket and for the first time realized that the basket was different. It had been transformed from a dirty old coal basket and was now clean, inside and out.
"Son, that's what happens when you read the Qur'an. You might not understand or remember everything, but when you read it, you will be changed, inside and out. That is the work of Allah in our lives."
If you feel this email is worth reading, please forward to your contacts/friends. Prophet Muhammad (pbuh) says: "The one who guides to good will be rewarded equally"
Source: Unknown Email
Daughters in Islam
Understanding the Prophet's Life
Daughters in Islam
Daughters in Islam
If it was not for the commands of Allah, stated in the Quran, and
the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon
him), women would not have been given the preference over men.
Allah's Prophet was reported as saying: " Be fair and just in
terms of the gifts you offer your children. If I was to give
preference to any (gender over the other) I would have preferred
females over males (in terms of gifts). " [Bayhaqi]
Moreover, Allah's Prophet concentrated throughout his teachings
on giving more care and attention to females in general over the
male. Females must be treated with kindness, respect, honor,
dignity, integrity and their needs must be looked after. Allah's
Prophet said: " He whosoever has three daughters, or three
sisters, or two daughters or two sisters, and is very kind to
them, demonstrating nice company to them and fears Allah in
their treatment, will enter Paradise (as a result of his good
actions to these females). " [Abu Dawood & Tirmidhi]
Islamic laws and teachings mandate that parents raise their
children in the best manners and offer them a sound, beneficial
and healthy education. Ibn Omar (may Allah be pleased with him),
reported Allah's Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon
him) as saying: " The most sinful of you are those who neglect
those whom he is responsible to take care of." [Abu Dawood &
Nasaiee]
Source:
"Women In the Shade of Islam" - Abdulrahman Al-Sheha, pp. 33, 34
the Sunnah of the Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon
him), women would not have been given the preference over men.
Allah's Prophet was reported as saying: " Be fair and just in
terms of the gifts you offer your children. If I was to give
preference to any (gender over the other) I would have preferred
females over males (in terms of gifts). " [Bayhaqi]
Moreover, Allah's Prophet concentrated throughout his teachings
on giving more care and attention to females in general over the
male. Females must be treated with kindness, respect, honor,
dignity, integrity and their needs must be looked after. Allah's
Prophet said: " He whosoever has three daughters, or three
sisters, or two daughters or two sisters, and is very kind to
them, demonstrating nice company to them and fears Allah in
their treatment, will enter Paradise (as a result of his good
actions to these females). " [Abu Dawood & Tirmidhi]
Islamic laws and teachings mandate that parents raise their
children in the best manners and offer them a sound, beneficial
and healthy education. Ibn Omar (may Allah be pleased with him),
reported Allah's Prophet (peace and blessings of Allah be upon
him) as saying: " The most sinful of you are those who neglect
those whom he is responsible to take care of." [Abu Dawood &
Nasaiee]
Source:
"Women In the Shade of Islam" - Abdulrahman Al-Sheha, pp. 33, 34
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
