Bismillah!

Bismillah!

Sunday, December 28, 2008

"Mubarak New Year", 1 Muharram 1430H

Assalamualaykum wa Rahmatullah!

The new Islamic year is in, alhamdulillah. Please do not forget to fast on the 9th & 10th, or the 10th & 11th of this sacred month of Muharram. Fasting on the day of Ashura was never left by the Prophet (saw) as seen in the hadith:

Imam Ahmad and Nasa'i report from the Mother of Believers, Sayyida Hafsa (Allah be pleased with her) that, 'The Messenger of Allah (blessings and peace be upon him) did not leave four matters: Fasting `Ashura [10th of Muharram], [during] the ten days [of Dhu'l Hijja], and three days of each month.'

According to hilalsighting.org, the young crescent Hilal of Muharram 1430H was sighted in several parts of North America, after the sunset on Sunday December 28th, 2008, thus starting the Islamic New Year -- Muharram -- one of the 4 sacred months.


Muharram is the month with which the Muslims begin their lunar Hijrah Calendar. It is one of the four sanctified months about which the Holy Quran says, 'The number of the months according to Allah is twelve (mentioned) in the Book of Allah on the day He created heavens and the earth. Among these (twelve months) there are four sanctified.'

Ibn Abbas reported: 'The Prophet came to Madinah and found the Jews fasting the day of Ashura. He asked them: 'Why are you fasting this day?' They said: 'This is a great day. Allah saved Mousa (Moses) and the tribes of Israel from their enemies on this day and therefore Mousa fasted on it. 'The Prophet said: 'We have more of a right to Moosa than you.' So he fasted on that day also and ordered the people to fast on that day.' [al-Bukhari and Muslim].

A version narrated by Imaam Ahmad adds: 'This is the day on which the Ark settled on Mount Joodi, so Nooh fasted this day in thanksgiving.'

Abd-Allaah ibn 'Abbaas (RA) said: 'When the Messenger of Allaah (SAW) fasted on 'Aashura' and commanded the Muslims to fast as well, they said, 'O Messenger of Allaah, it is a day that is venerated by the Jews and Christians.' The Messenger of Allaah (SAW) said, 'If I live to see the next year, InshaAllaah, we will fast on the ninth day too.' But it so happened that the Messenger of Allaah (SAW) passed away before the next year came.' (Reported by Muslim, 1916).

Al-Shafi and his companions, Ahmad, Ishaaq and others said: 'It is mustahabb to fast on both the ninth and tenth days, because the Prophet (SAW) fasted on the tenth, and intended to fast on the ninth.'

Furthermore, Rasulillah (SAW) said: 'For fasting the day of 'Aashura', I hope that Allah will accept it as expiation for the year that went before.' (Reported by Muslim, 1976). This is from the bounty of Allah towards us: for fasting one day He gives us expiation for the sins of a whole year. And Allaah is the Owner of Great Bounty.


Imaam al-Nawawi (rh) said regarding this day: 'It expiates for all minor sins, i.e., it brings forgiveness of all sins except major sins.'

Fasting During the Month

The Noble Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, has said: 'The best fasts after the fasts of Ramadan are those of the month of Muharram.'

Although the fasts of the month of Muharram are not obligatory, yet one who fasts in these days out of his own will is entitled to a great reward by Allah Almighty. The Hadith cited above signifies that the fasts of the month of Muharram are most rewardable ones among the Nafl or voluntary fasts.

The Hadith does not mean that the award promised for fasts of Muharram can be achieved only by fasting for the whole month. On the contrary, each fast during this month has merit. Therefore, one should avail of this opportunity as much as he can.

The Day of 'Ashurah'

Although Muharram is a sanctified month as a whole, yet, the 10th day of Muharram is the most sacred among all its days. The day is named 'Ashurah'. According to the Holy Companion Ibn 'Abbas, Radi-Allahu anhu. The Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, when migrated to Madinah, found that the Jews of Madinah used to fast on the 10th day of Muharram. They said that it was the day on which the Holy Prophet Musa (Moses), alayhis salam, and his followers crossed the Red Sea miraculously and the Pharaoh was drowned in its waters. On hearing this from the Jews, the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, said, 'We are more closely rotated to Musa, alayhi salam, than you,' and directed the Muslims to fast on the day of 'Ashura'. (Abu Dawood)

It is also reported in a number of authentic traditions that in the beginning, fasting on the day of 'Ashura' was obligatory for the Muslims. It was later that the fasts of Ramadan were made obligatory and the fast on the day of 'Ashura' was made optional. Sayyidina 'Aisha, Radi-Allahu anha, has said:

'When the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, came to Madinah, he fasted on the day of 'Ashura' and directed the people to fast. But when the fasts of Ramadan were made obligatory, the obligation of fasting was confined to Ramadan and the obligatory nature of the fast of 'Ashura' was abandoned. Whoever so desires should fast on it and any other who so likes can avoid fasting on it.' (Sunan Abu Dawud)

However, the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, used to fast on the day of 'Ashura' even after the fasting in Ramadan was made obligatory. Abdullah ibn Musa, Radi-Allahu anhu, reports that the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, preferred the fast of 'Ashura' on the fasts of other days and preferred the fasts of Ramadhaan on the fast of 'Ashura'. (Bukhari and Muslim)

In short, it is established through a number of authentic ahadith that fasting on the day of 'Ashura' is Sunnah of the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, and makes one entitled to a great reward.

According to another Hadith, it is more advisable that the fast of 'Ashura' should either be preceded or followed by another fast. It means that one should fast two days: the 9th and 10th of Muharram or the 10th and 11th. The reason of this additional fast as mentioned by the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, is that the Jews used to fast on the day of'Ashura alone, and the Holy Prophet, Sall-Allahu alayhi wa sallam, wanted to distinguish the Muslim way of fasting from that of Jews. Therefore, he advised the Muslims to add another fast to that of 'Ashura'.

Some traditions signify another feature of the day of 'Ashura. According to these traditions, one should be more generous to his family by providing more food to them on this day as compared to other days. These traditions are not very authentic according to the science of Hadith. Yet, some Scholars like Baihaqi and Ibn Hibban have accepted them as reliable.

What is mentioned above is all that is supported through authentic sources about Ashura

source: http://albalagh.net/general/muharram.shtml

For further information on this blessed month of Muharram, please read Mufti Taqi Usmani's full article: http://albalagh.net/general/muharram.shtml


May Allaah SWT grant us all tawfiq in gaining His nearness and eternal Pleasure. Aameen.

Jazakum Allaahu Khayran. WasSalaam.

Friday, December 19, 2008

Omar Kamali - rahimahullah

Inna lillahi wa inna ilayhi raajiun.

Omar Kamali, aged 26, journeyed to his Lord tonight (Dec. 19th) before 9pm. I remember Omar as a smiling, friendly and very helpful brother who had a fire in him for Allah and the Deen. May Allah (swt) reward him for all of his good actions, and meaningful intentions. After the tragic death of his good friend Omar Khairallah, about 4 years ago (may Allah have mercy on his soul) Omar dedicated his life for Allah and made a firm intention to increase in all good. Omar was generous in donating whatever money he had, his friends abroad would see him praying the tahajjud prayer in his room, and he never missed a prayer due to his firm resolve and high level of sincerity. From what I was told by his beloved mother (may Allah grant her the best of sabr), while studying in medical school in China, Omar was able to convey the message of Islam in the area he lived to the Chinese inhabitants and in response, more than a dozen people entered into the fold of Islam. Allahu Akbar! May Allah (swt) accept all of Omar's good actions and enter him into the highest levels of al-Jannah. Ameen!

Before he fell and went into a coma that he never awoke from, Omar was actually on his way to the bank to get money for the masjid that he himself was building for the Muslims in that locality. Subhan'Allah! The masjid is halfway complete, and I pray that Omar will see the house that Allah (swt) has ready for him in al-Jannah. Imagine that - Allah (swt) promises a house in Jannah for the person who builds a masjid -- even if it be a very modest sized building (the hadith mentions a "bird's nest" to indicate the humble size that qualifies -- showing the immense reward in the act).

May his soul rest in peace and tranquility in al-Jannah and may his grave be expanded and made into a garden from the gardens of Paradise. Ameen.

Omar's Janazah will be held in Lodi tomorrow (Sat. Dec. 20th) at 2pm and those who would like to meet and pray for him and his family, and offer support and comfort to his loved ones, may come to the Stockton Islamic center (downtown Stockton) at 11am tomorrow.

May Allah (swt) grant patience to Omar's family and allow this to be a means to draw closer to our Lord. After reading this, please recite Surah al-Fatiha for Omar. JazakumAllahu khayrun.

A beautiful du'aa sent in by Sister Penny:


اَللَّهُمَّ [ إِنَّ فُلاَنَ بْنَ فُلاَنٍ ] فِيْ ذِمَّتِكَ، وَحَبْلِ جِوَارِكَ، فَقِهِ مِنْ فِتْنَةِ الْقَبْرِ وَعَذَابِ النَّارِ، وَأَنْتَ أَهْلُ الْوَفَاءِ وَالْحَقِّ. فَاغْفِرْ لَهُ وَارْحَمْهُ إِنَّكَ أَنْتَ الْغَفُوْرُ الرَّحِيْمُ

O Allah! Surely Omar Kamali is under Your protection, and in the rope of Your security, so save him from the trial of the grave and from the punishment of the Fire. You fulfill promises and grant rights, so forgive him and have mercy on him. Surely You are Most Forgiving, Most Merciful, Ameen.

Wednesday, December 17, 2008

BBC HardTalk with Shaykh Hamza Yusuf (2001)

Subhan'Allah - amazing interview.

Part 1: Watch.

Part 2: Watch.

Part 3: Watch.

Friday, December 12, 2008

The Rahmah Foundation Dec 20th Event!

Insha'Allah you've enjoyed and benefited greatly from last month's two-day seminar "Embodying the Sunnah: A Sisters' Guide to Inspiration" with Ustadha Eiman Sidky, Ustadha Shamira Chothia Ahmed and Ustadha Rania Awaad. Alhamdulillah we are blessed to have another amazing sisters' seminar this month that is not to be missed!


The Rahmah Foundation presents:

Reflections on Life & The Afterlife
with Ustadha Rania Awaad, Ustadha Mona Elzankaly & Ustadha Shamira Chothia Ahmed
Saturday, December 20th, 9:45am--4:00pm
631 Jackson St. Hayward, CA 94544
Cost: $25

Register by emailing: programs@therahmahfoundation.org

Please share with other sisters who might be interested!!

www.therahmahfoundation.org



Lecture Topics:

Waking Up To The True Reality: Distinguishing Between The Means & The Goal

In this talk Ustadha Mona will discuss the reality of this world, and the veils that keep us from realizing our true purpose in life. Distinguishing between the means, that help us on our path to God, and The Goal, which is returning to Him, Glorious is He, pleased with us, is very imperative in our every day life. Simple advice will be given on how to keep things in perspective and to rectify our intention with God Most High.

Traveling the Path to Allah: Forgiveness and Intercession

Ever wonder about forgiveness? Ustadha Rania will discuss in detail the Hadith: "When God brought creation into existence, He wrote upon His Throne, 'My mercy overtakes My wrath.' She will discuss the importance of seeking forgiveness and share practical measures of how to seek forgiveness in order to incorporate this important part of our Deen into our daily lives. Lastly, she will bring to light the concept of intercession- an amazing gift given by Allah to His Beloved, the Prophet may peace and blessings be upon him, on behalf of his entire Ummah.

Living Between Hope & Fear:

Fear makes us careful in avoiding sin, while hope makes us diligent to follow after righteousness and is a motivator to do good.

The Almighty says, "Your Lord is swift in retribution, and He is Ever-Forgiving, Most Merciful." (7:167); The Seal of all prophets, Prophet Muhammad,
may peace and blessings be upon him, said "The Garden (al-Jannah) is nearer to you than your own sandal strap and it is the same with the Fire." (Bukhari)
In this motivating talk Ustadha Shamira will discuss the reality of trusting in Ar-Rahmaan (the Most Merciful's) Mercy, yet at the same time fearing His punishment. The eternal abodes of Heaven and Hell will be narratively illustrated, and the diametrically opposite qualities of hope and fear in God will be discussed. Practical applications will be shared in order to create a balanced outlook on life, and emphasis laid on the importance of striving for the Eternal Pleasure of God the Almighty.


About the Teachers (in alphabetical order):


Ustadha Shamira Chothia Ahmed
Born and raised in Northern California, Shamira Chothia Ahmed is an emerging young female scholar of the traditional Islamic sciences. Her studies led her to seek sacred knowledge from scholars on three continents — Africa, Europe, and the Middle East. In England she completed the five-year, traditional alimah (Islamic studies) program, studied the ahadith collection of the Sihah Sittah and received her ijaazah (authorization) in Sahih al-Bukhari with renowned Hanafi scholars. Thereafter, Ustadha Shamira was able to continue her studies for six months in Damascus, Syria where she obtained an ijaazah in tajwid of the Hafs recitation from the eminent Syrian scholar, Shaykh Abu Hassan al-Kurdi. In addition, she furthered her Arabic studies at the Abu-Noor Institute and took classes in fiqh, aqidah (creed) and sirah (prophetic history) at Damascus's Masjid Zaid. Upon returning to the U.S. in 2005, she was granted the opportunity to be an instructor of Hanafi fiqh for women at the Zaytuna Institute in Hayward, California. Privately, she taught fiqh, tajwid and Qur'anic tafsir (exegesis). She recently earned her Master's degree in Demographics and Social Analysis from the University of California at Irvine with her focus on the identity formation of the Muslim-American population. Ustadha Shamira gives lectures across the U.S. and currently teaches shariah sciences to women in the Southern California region.

Ustadha Rania Awaad

Raised in the U.S., Rania began her formal study of the traditional Islamic sciences when her parents permitted her to travel to Damascus, Syria at the age of 14. Her desire to continue studying the Deen resulted in multiple trips back to Damascus, interspersed between her high school and college studies. She was honored to receive Ijaazah (authorization to teach) several branches of the Shari'ah sciences at the hands of many renowned scholars, including many female scholars. She has received Ijaazah to teach Tajwid in both the Hafs and Warsh recitations from the eminent Syrian scholar, Shaykh Abu Hassan al-Kurdi. In addition completing several advanced texts of the Shafi'i madhhab, she is also licensed to teach texts of Maliki fiqh, Adab and Ihsan. Currently, she is completing a medical degree intended to compliment her in-depth study of female-specific fiqh issues. Her medical interests include addressing mental health care concerns in the Muslim community- particularly that of Muslim women. Other on-going endeavors include the compilation of a manual addressing female-related medical issues from a fiqh-oriented perspective and a manual on raising Muslim children in the West. She is both a wife and mother and has lectured, taught and counseled women extensively. Ustadha Rania has been teaching classes on Tajwid, Shafi'i Fiqh, Ihsan, marriage and raising children since 1999.

Ustadha Mona Elzankaly

Born in Cairo, raised in Moreno Valley, California, a graduate of the University of California Riverside, Mona Elzankaly began seeking sacred knowledge at the Zaytuna Institute in Hayward CA. There she has studied with many eminent scholars, such as Shaykh Hamza Yusuf, Shaykh Khatri, and Shaykh Muhammad al-Yaqoubi. In 2001, she joined Fajr center in Cairo, Egypt to complete a year-long program in Arabic. In 2002, Mona returned to the Zaytuna Institute where she studied full time with Shaykh Salik b. Siddina several texts in Maliki fiqh, creed, Hadith and the inward science. In 2004 Mona traveled to Damascus, Syria to continue her studies with a focus on Qur'an. While in Damascus, she obtained an Ijaazah to teach Tajwid in the Hafs style from Shaykh Shukry Luhafi. She has also obtained Ijaazah upon hearing the complete recitation of Sahih al-Bukhari, and Muwatta al-Imam Malik from Shaykh Muhammad al-Yaqoubi. In 2008, she completed the four year Zaytuna Seminary pilot program and received a baccalaureate degree in Islamic Studies. Mona has also attended the Dawra programs in Tarim Yemen where she had the opportunity to both study and teach at Dar al-Zahra. Mona has previously taught Maliki fiqh for women at the Zaytuna Institute, and currently teaches Islamic sciences privately.



Wednesday, December 10, 2008

Du'aas Answered in Middle of Night!

XX: The excellence of someone who wakes up at night and prays

1103. It is related from 'Ubada ibn as-Samit that the Prophet, may Allah bless him and grant him peace, said, "If someone wakes up at night and says, 'There is no god but Allah alone with no partner. The kingdom is His and His is the praise. He has power over everything. Praise belongs to Allah. Glory be to Allah. There is no god but Allah. Allah is greater. There is no strength nor power except by Allah,' and then says, 'O Allah, forgive me' or makes supplication to Allah,' it will be answered. If he does wudu', then his prayer will be accepted." (Bukhari)

Tuesday, December 09, 2008

Irvine Sisters' Classes

Prophetic Moral Guidance
for Daily Living

-Sisters' Classes-

Reflections on Prophetic traditions


Presented by: Ustadha Shamira Chothia Ahmed

Venue: Islamic Center of Irvine (ICOI)- Multi-purpose Room

Date: Monday evenings (starting January 5th, 2009)

Time: 6:30pm - 7:30pm

When our bodies are hungry we nourish it with food, but when our souls are hungry, what should we do? Unite with fellow sisters led by Ustadha Shamira and soak in the wisdom and beauty of the beloved of the Almighty, the Prophet Muhammah (p.b.u.h)! This weekly inspiring course will teach you how to practically apply and recharge yourself spiritually by using the best model of creation, Prophet Muhammad (p.b.u.h), and provide a roadmap to help achieve closeness to our Lord.

Topics such as sincerity, repentance, steadfastness, truthfulness, and spiritually striving in the path of the Almighty will be discussed. Texts to be used: Riyad as-Salihin (The Meadows of the Righteous) by Al-Imam Abu Zakariya Yahya bin Sharaf An-Nawawi Ad-Dimashqi, and Provisions for the Seekers by Shaykh 'Ashiq Ilahi al-Bulandshehri.

Come Prepared to Stroll in the Gardens of the Righteous!!

Sunday, December 07, 2008

Eid Mubarak! Some Beloved Sunnahs To Follow,Insha'Allah!

Eid Mubarak to one and all! Here are some sunnahs to follow for the upcoming blessed day:

Takbir-ut-tashriq:
Beginning from the Fajr of the 9th Zulhijjah up to the 'Asr prayer of the 13th, it is obligatory on each Muslim to recite the Takbir of Tashriq after every fard prayer in the following words.

"Allaahu akbar, Allaahu akbar, la ilaaha ill-Allaah; wa Allaahu akbar wa Lillaahi'l-hamd (Allaah is Most Great, Allaah is Most Great, there is no god but Allaah; Allaah is Most Great and to Allaah be praise)…"

The Prophet (r) commanded us to recite a lot of Tasbeeh ("Subhan-Allaah"), Tahmeed ("Al-hamdu Lillaah") and Takbeer ("Allaahu akbar") during the first ten days of Dhu'l-Hijjah, and for men to say it loudly in the mosque, the home, the street and every place where it is permitted to remember Allaah and mention His name out loud, as an act of worship and as a proclamation of the greatness of Allaah, may He be exalted. (Men should recite these phrases out loud, and women should recite them quietly(.

'Abdullaah ibn 'Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him and his father) reported that the Prophet (r) said:

"There are no days greater in the sight of Allaah and in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Him than these ten days, so during this time recite a great deal of Tahleel ("La ilaaha ill-Allaah"), Takbeer and Tahmeed." (Reported by Ahmad, 7/224; Ahmad Shaakir stated that it is saheeh)


THE SUNNAHS OF EID

1. Wake up early.
2. Offer Salatul Fajr (if you can offer Tahajjud first, even better!)
3. Prepare for personal cleanliness take care of details of clothing, etc.
4. Take a Ghusl (bath) after Fajr.
5. Brush your teeth.
6. Dress up, putting on best clothes available, whether new or clean old ones.
7. Use perfume (men only).
8. On Eid-al-Adha, eat breakfast only after the Eid Salaah, or after sacrifice* if you are doing a sacrifice.
9. Go to the prayer ground early.
10. Offer Salaat-al-Eid in congregation in an open place except when weather is not permitting like rain, snow, etc. (Do not speak or socialize once the Imam comes out)
11. Use two separate routes to and from the prayer ground.
12. Recite the following Takbir on the way to Salaat and until the beginning of Salaat-al-Eid. **

"Allahu-Akbar, Allahu-Akbar. La ila-ha ill-lal-lah. Allahu-Akbar, Allahu-Akbar. 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)


* Eid ul Adha is the auspicious day of sacrifice. The day on which Hazrat Ibrahim (Alayhi Salaam) was tested to sacrifice his beloved son, Hazrat Ismael (Alayhi Salaam) for the sake of Allah (subhana wa ta'ala). To commemorate this event, Muslims have been directed to sacrifice animals on this day so that they can reflect upon this incident and learn a lesson from it. Muslims are further reminded of sacrifice by giving away a portion of this meat to the neediest in their communities.


**This Takbir should also be recited at least once after every Fardh prayer starting at the time of Fajr on the 9th Zhulhijjah and lasting until the Asr on the 13th Zhulhijjah

An early Eid Kareem! May Allah (swt) accept our fasts, our prayers and our intentions and may we all be blesssed to visit the holy cities of Makkah and Madinah to perform accepted Hajj & Umrahs numerous times! Ameen.

Tuesday, December 02, 2008

First Ten Days of Dhu-l-Hijjah

First Ten Days of Dhu-l-Hijjah - summary...

1) The first ten days of Dhu'l-Hijjah are the most virtuous days of the year.

2) Virtues of performing good deeds during these days and the necessity of utilising time.

3) Examples of good deeds:
a. Salaah.

b. Recitation of the Qur'aan.

c. Fasting.

d. Charity.

e. Hajj.

4) Sacrificing Udh-hiyah, and the Sunnah regarding it.


5) Not cutting your hair/nails within these 10 days if you plan to offer a sacrifice

How do the first ten days of the Month of Dhul Hijjah differ from other days of the year?

Praise be to Allaah Who has created Time and has made some times better than others, some months and days and nights better than others, when rewards are multiplied many times, as a mercy towards His slaves. This encourages them to do more righteous deeds and makes them more eager to worship Him, so that the Muslim renews his efforts to gain a greater share of reward, prepare himself for death and supply himself in readiness for the Day of Judgement.

This season of worship brings many benefits, such as the opportunity to correct one's faults and make up for any shortcomings or anything that one might have missed. Every one of these special occasions involves some kind of worship through which the slaves may draw closer to Allaah, and some kind of blessing though which Allaah bestows His favour and mercy upon whomsoever He will. The happy person is the one who makes the most of these special months, days and hours and draws nearer to his Lord during these times through acts of worship; he will most likely be touched by the blessing of Allaah and will feel the joy of knowing that he is safe from the flames of Hell. (Ibn Rajab, al-Lataa'if, p.8)

The Muslim must understand the value of his life, increase his worship of Allaah and persist in doing good deeds until the moment of death. Allaah says

"And worship your Lord until there comes unto you the certainty." [al-Hijr 15:99]

The mufassireen (commentators) said: " 'The certainty' means death."

Among the special seasons of worship are the first ten days of Dhu'l-Hijjah, which Allaah has preferred over all the other days of the year. Ibn 'Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him and his father) reported that the Prophet (r) said:

"There are no days in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Allaah than these ten days." The people asked, "Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah?" He said, "Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah, except in the case of a man who went out to fight giving himself and his wealth up for the cause, and came back with nothing." (Reported by al-Bukhaari, 2/457)

Ibn 'Abbaas (may Allaah be pleased with him and his father) also reported that the Prophet (r) said:

"There is no deed more precious in the sight of Allaah, nor greater in reward, than a good deed done during the ten days of Sacrifice." He was asked, "Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah?" He said, "Not even jihaad for the sake of Allaah, except in the case of a man who went out to fight giving himself and his wealth up for the cause, and came back with nothing." (Reported by al-Daarimi, 1/357; its isnaad is hasan as stated in al-Irwaa', 3/398)

These texts and others indicate that these ten days are better than all the other days of the year, with no exceptions, not even the last ten days of Ramadaan. But the last ten nights of Ramadaan are better, because they include Laylat al-Qadr ("The Night of Power"), which is better than a thousand months. Thus the various reports may be reconciled. (See Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 5/412)

You should know, my brother in Islaam, that the virtue of these ten days is based on many things:

Allaah swears an oath by them, and swearing an oath by something is indicative of its importance and great benefit. Allaah says:

"By the dawn; by the ten nights." [al-Fajr 89:1-2]

Ibn 'Abbaas, Ibn al-Zubayr, Mujaahid and others of the earlier and later generations said that this refers to the first ten days of Dhu'l-Hijjah. Ibn Katheer said: "This is the correct opinion." (Tafseer Ibn Katheer, 8/413)

The Prophet (r) testified that these are the best days of this world, as we have already quoted above from saheeh ahaadeeth.

The Prophet (r) encouraged people to do righteous deeds because of the virtue of this season for people throughout the world, and also because of the virtue of the place - for the Hujjaaj (pilgrims) to the Sacred House of Allaah.

The Prophet (r) commanded us to recite a lot of Tasbeeh ("Subhan-Allaah"), Tahmeed ("Al-hamdu Lillaah") and Takbeer ("Allaahu akbar") during this time. 'Abdullaah ibn 'Umar (may Allaah be pleased with him and his father) reported that the Prophet (r) said:

"There are no days greater in the sight of Allaah and in which righteous deeds are more beloved to Him than these ten days, so during this time recite a great deal of Tahleel ("La ilaaha ill-Allaah"), Takbeer and Tahmeed." (Reported by Ahmad, 7/224; Ahmad Shaakir stated that it is saheeh)

These ten days include Yawm 'Arafaah (the Day of 'Arafaah), on which Allaah perfected His Religion. Fasting on this day will expiate for the sins of two years. These days also include Yawm al-Nahr (the Day of Sacrifice), the greatest day of the entire year and the greatest day of Hajj, which combines acts of worship in a way unlike any other day.

These ten days include the days of sacrifice and of Hajj.

Question: What must the Muslim avoid during these ten days if he wants to offer a sacrifice?

The Sunnah indicates that the one who wants to offer a sacrifice must stop cutting his hair and nails and removing anything from his skin, from the beginning of the ten days until after he has offered his sacrifice, because the Prophet (r) said:

"When you see the new moon of Dhu'l-Hijjah, if any one of you wants to offer a sacrifice, then he should stop cutting his hair and nails until he has offered his sacrifice."

According to another report he said:

"He should not remove anything from his hair or skin." (reported by Muslim with four isnaads, 13/146)

The Prophet's instruction here makes one thing obligatory and his prohibition makes another haraam, according to the soundest opinion, because these commands and prohibitions are unconditional and unavoidable. If a person does any of these things deliberately, he must seek Allaah's forgiveness but is not however required to offer (an extra) sacrifice in expiation; his sacrifice will be acceptable. Whoever needs to remove some hair, nails, etc. because it is harming him, such as having a broken nail or a wound in a site where there is hair, should do so, and there is nothing wrong with that. The state of ihraam is so important that it is permitted to cut one's hair if leaving it will cause harm. There is nothing wrong with men or women washing their heads during the first ten days of Dhu'l-Hijjah, because the Prophet (r) only forbade cutting the hair, not washing it.

The wisdom behind this prohibition from cutting his hair etc. for the one who wants to offer a sacrifice, is so that he may resemble those in ihraam in some aspects of the rituals performed, and so that he may draw closer to Allaah by offering the sacrifice. So he leaves his hair and nails alone until the time when he has offered his sacrifice, in the hope that Allaah will save him in his entirety from the Fire. And Allaah knows best.

If a person has cut his hair or nails during the first ten days of Dhu'l-Hijjah because he was not planning to offer a sacrifice, then he decides later, during the ten days, to offer a sacrifice, then he must refrain from cutting his hair and nails from the moment he makes this decision.

Concerning the types of worship to be performed during these ten days: one must understand that these days are a great blessing from Allaah to His slave, which is appreciated properly by the actively righteous. It is the Muslim's duty to appreciate this blessing and make the most of the opportunity, by devoting these ten days to paying more attention to striving hard in worship. Among His blessings to His slaves, Allaah has given us many ways in which to do good and worship Him, so that the Muslim may be constantly active and consistent in his worship of his Lord.

Among the good deeds which the Muslim should strive to do during the first ten days of Dhu'l-Hijjah are:

Fasting.Fasts in the First 10 Days:

The Prophet(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) has said, "One fast during these days is equal to the fasting of one complete year, and the worship of one night during this period is equal to the worship in the "Lailatul-Qadr".(Tirmizi)

The 9th day of Zulhijjah:
The 9th day of Dhul Hijjah is called 'Youmul - "Arafah' (The Day of 'Arafah). This is the date when the Hujjaj ( pilgrims) assemble on the plain of 'Arafat, six miles away from Makkah al-Mukarramah, where they perform the most essential part of the prescribed duties of hajj, namely, the 'Wuqoof of'Arafat (the stay in 'Arafat)'.

The Fast of Youmul 'Arafah:
For those not performing hajj, it is mustahabb (desirable) to fast on this day according to their own lunar calendar dates of their own country . The fast of 'Youmul 'Arafah' has been emphasized by the Prophet(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) as a mustahabb (desirable) act. According to a hadith, the fast of this day becomes a cause, hopefully so, of forgiveness for sins committed in one year.
Abu Qataadah(radhiyallahu anhu) reported that Rasullullah(sallallahu alaiyhi wassallam) said: " I have hope in Allah Ta'ala that the fast of Arafaat will be an atonement for the sins of the past and the forthcoming year." (Tirmizi)

It is Sunnah to fast on the ninth day of Dhu'l-Hijjah, because the Prophet (r) urged us to do good deeds during this time, and fasting is one of the best of deeds. Allaah has chosen fasting for Himself, as is stated in the Hadeeth Qudsi:

"Allaah says: 'All the deeds of the son of Adam are for him, except for fasting, which is for Me and I am the One Who will reward him for it.' " (Reported by al-Bukhaari, 1805)

The Prophet (r) used to fast on the ninth of Dhu'l-Hijjah. Hunaydah ibn Khaalid reported from his wife that some of the wives of the Prophet (r) said:

"The Prophet (r) used to fast on the ninth of Dhu'l-Hijjah, on the day of 'Aashooraa´, on three days of each month, and on the first two Mondays and Thursdays of each month." (Reported by al-Nisaa'i, 4/205 and by Abu Dawud; classified by al-Albaani as saheeh in Saheeh Abi Dawud, 2/462)

Takbeer. It is Sunnah to say Takbeer ("Allaahu akbar"), Tahmeed ("Al-hamdu Lillaah"), Tahleel ("La ilaha ill-Allaah") and Tasbeeh ("Subhaan Allaah") during the first ten days of Dhu'l-Hijjah, and to say it loudly in the mosque, the home, the street and every place where it is permitted to remember Allaah and mention His name out loud, as an act of worship and as a proclamation of the greatness of Allaah, may He be exalted.

Men should recite these phrases out loud, and women should recite them quietly.

Allaah says:

"That they might witness things that are of benefit to them (i.e., reward of Hajj in the Hereafter, and also some worldly gain from trade, etc.), and mention the name of Allaah on appointed days, over the beast of cattle that He has provided for them (for sacrifice)..." [al-Hajj 22:28]

The majority of scholars agree that the "appointed days" are the first ten days of Dhu'l-Hijjah, because of the words of Ibn 'Abbaas (t): "The 'appointed days' are the first ten days (of Dhu'l-Hijjah."

Takbir-ut-tashriq:
Beginning from the Fajr of the 9th Zulhijjah up to the 'Asr prayer of the 13th, it is obligatory on each Muslim to recite the Takbir of Tashriq after every fard prayer in the following words.

"Allaahu akbar, Allaahu akbar, la ilaaha ill-Allaah; wa Allaahu akbar wa Lillaahi'l-hamd (Allaah is Most Great, Allaah is Most Great, there is no god but Allaah; Allaah is Most Great and to Allaah be praise)…"

Takbeer at this time is an aspect of the Sunnah that has been forgotten, especially during the early part of this period, so much so that one hardly ever hears Takbeer, except from a few people. This Takbeer should be pronounced loudly, in order to revive the Sunnah and as a reminder to the negligent. men should read this loudly whereas women quietly.

Reviving aspects of the Sunnah that have been virtually forgotten is a deed that will bring an immense reward, as is indicated by the words of the Prophet (r):

"Whoever revives an aspect of my Sunnah that is forgotten after my death, he will have a reward equivalent to that of the people who follow him, without it detracting in the least from their reward." (Reported by al-Tirmidhi, 7/443; this is a hasan hadeeth because of corroborating asaaneed)

Performing Hajj and 'Umrah. One of the best deeds that one can do during these ten days is to perform Hajj to the Sacred House of Allaah. The one whom Allaah helps to go on Hajj to His House and to perform all the rituals properly is included in the words of the Prophet (r):

"An accepted Hajj brings no less a reward than Paradise."

Doing more good deeds in general, because good deeds are beloved by Allaah and will bring a great reward from Him. Whoever is not able to go to Hajj should occupy himself at this blessed time by worshipping Allaah, praying (salaat), reading Qur`an, remembering Allaah, making supplication (du'aa´), giving charity, honouring his parents, upholding the ties of kinship, enjoining what is good and forbidding what is evil, and other good deeds and acts of worship.

Sacrifice. One of the good deeds that will bring a person closer to Allaah during these ten days is offering a sacrifice, by choosing a high-quality animal and fattening it, spending money for the sake of Allaah.

Sincere repentance. One of the most important things to do during these ten days is to repent sincerely to Allaah and to give up all kinds of disobedience and sin. Repentance means coming back to Allaah and foregoing all the deeds, open and secret, that He dislikes, out of regret for what has passed, giving it up immediately and being determined never to return to it, but to adhere firmly to the Truth by doing what Allaah loves.

If a Muslim commits a sin, he must hasten to repent at once, without delay, firstly because he does not know when he will die, and secondly because one evil deed leads to another.

Repentance at special times is very important because in most cases people's thoughts turn towards worship at these times, and they are keen to do good, which leads to them recognizing their sins and feeling regret for the past. Repentance is obligatory at all times, but when the Muslim combines sincere repentance with good deeds during the days of most virtue, this is a sign of success, in sha Allaah. Allaah says:

"But as for him who repented, believed and did righteous deeds, then he will be among those who are successful." [al-Qasas 28:67]

The Muslim should make sure that he does not miss any of these important occasion, because time is passing quickly. Let him prepare himself by doing good deeds which will bring him reward when he is most in need of it, for no matter how much reward he earns, he will find it is less than he needs; the time of departure is at hand, the journey is frightening, delusions are widespread, and the road is long, but Allaah is ever watchful, and to Him will we return and render account. As the Qur`aan says:

"So whosoever does good equal to the weight of an atom, shall see it. And whosoever does evil equal to the weight of an atom, shall see it." [al-Zalzalah 99:7-8]

There is much to be gained, so make the most of the opportunity afforded by these invaluable and irreplaceable ten days. Hasten to do good works, before death strikes, before one can regret one's negligence and failure to act, before one is asked to return to a place where no prayers will be answered, before death intervenes between the hopeful one and the things he hopes for, before you are trapped with your deeds in the grave.

O you whose hard heart is as dark as the night, is it not time that your heart was filled with light and became soft? Expose yourself to the gentle breeze of your Lord's mercy during these ten days, for Allaah will cause this breeze to touch whomever He wills, and whoever is touched by it will be happy on the Day of Judgement. May Allaah bless our Prophet Muhammad and all his Family and Companions.

author: Sheikh Muhammed Salih Al-Munajjid